CA2905305C - Air distribution system for a pneumatic conveying system - Google Patents
Air distribution system for a pneumatic conveying system Download PDFInfo
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- CA2905305C CA2905305C CA2905305A CA2905305A CA2905305C CA 2905305 C CA2905305 C CA 2905305C CA 2905305 A CA2905305 A CA 2905305A CA 2905305 A CA2905305 A CA 2905305A CA 2905305 C CA2905305 C CA 2905305C
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Abstract
A system for pressurizing a tank of an agricultural air distribution system includes an air source configured to supply pressurized air and a plenum having an inlet fluidly coupled to the air source and configured to receive a flow of pressurized air. The plenum includes a face positioned opposite from the inlet relative to a direction of flow of the pressurized air through the plenum. Moreover, the face includes a pressurization port configured to direct the flow of pressurized air to the tank and at least one outlet port configured to couple to at least one hose to supply the pressurized air to an agricultural implement.
Description
AIR DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM FOR A PNEUMATIC CONVEYING SYSTEM
BACKGROUND
100011 The present disclosure relates generally to agricultural implements and, more particularly, to supplying air to storage tanks and ground engaging opener assemblies on agricultural implements.
BACKGROUND
100011 The present disclosure relates generally to agricultural implements and, more particularly, to supplying air to storage tanks and ground engaging opener assemblies on agricultural implements.
[0002] Generally, agricultural implements are towed behind an off-road work vehicle, such as a tractor. These agricultural implements typically include multiple rows of ground engaging opener assemblies to excavate trenches into soil for depositing a granular product, such as seeds or fertilizer. In this manner, rows of the granular product may be deposited into the soil. More specifically, the granular product may be stored in a central location, such as in storage tanks of an air cart, and distributed to each of the ground engaging opener assemblies for deposition into the soil.
However, the flow of granular product from the air cart is often uneven, resulting in uneven deposition and potential plugging of distribution hoses.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION
However, the flow of granular product from the air cart is often uneven, resulting in uneven deposition and potential plugging of distribution hoses.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION
[0003] Certain embodiments commensurate in scope with the originally claimed invention are summarized below. These embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention, but rather these embodiments are intended only to provide a brief summary of possible forms of the invention. Indeed, the invention may encompass a variety of forms that may be similar to or different from the embodiments set forth below.
[0004] In one embodiment a system for pressurizing a tank of an agricultural air distribution system includes an air source configured to supply pressurized air and a plenum having an inlet fluidly coupled to the air source and configured to receive a flow of pressurized air. The plenum includes a face positioned opposite from the inlet relative to a direction of flow of the pressurized air through the plenum.
Moreover, the face includes a pressurization port configured to direct the flow of pressurized air to the tank and at least one outlet port configured to couple to at least one hose to supply the pressurized air to an agricultural implement.
Moreover, the face includes a pressurization port configured to direct the flow of pressurized air to the tank and at least one outlet port configured to couple to at least one hose to supply the pressurized air to an agricultural implement.
[0005] In another embodiment a system for distributing air to an agricultural implement includes an air source configured to supply a flow of pressurized air and a tank configured to store an agricultural product for distribution by the agricultural implement. In certain embodiments, the tank includes a meter configured to regulate the flow of agricultural product from the tank. The system also includes a plenum fluidly coupled to the air source and configured to direct the flow of pressurized air to a plurality of hoses and to the tank via a pressurization line. The plenum includes a first side coupled to a top surface and a bottom surface, the top surface being opposite the bottom surface and a second side, opposite the first side, coupled to the top surface and the bottom surface. The plenum also includes an inlet positioned at a first end and configured to receive the flow of pressurized air from the air source and a face positioned at a second end, opposite the first end. Moreover, the face includes a pressurization port configured to couple to the pressurization line and a plurality of outlet ports configured to couple to the plurality of hoses.
[0006] In another embodiment a plenum for distributing a flow of air from an air source includes an inlet positioned on a first end of the plenum and configured receive the flow of air from the air source and a first side coupled to a top surface and a bottom surface. The top surface is opposite the bottom surface. The plenum also includes a second side, opposite the first side, coupled to the top surface and the bottom surface. Additionally, the plenum includes a face disposed on a second end of the plenum, opposite the first end. The face includes at least one outlet port configured to direct the flow of air out of the plenum. Also, the plenum includes a baffle assembly disposed within the plenum. The baffle assembly is configured to regulate the flow of air through the plenum.
DRAWINGS
DRAWINGS
[0007] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings in which like characters represent like parts throughout the drawings, wherein:
[0008] FIG. 1 is a side view of an agricultural implement with an air cart, in accordance with an embodiment;
[0009] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an embodiment of a seeding system configured to supply pressurized air and seeds to the agricultural implement and air cart of FIG. 1;
[0010] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a plenum configured to direct pressurized air to the agricultural implement and air cart of FIG. 1;
[0011] FIG. 4 is a front view of the plenum of FIG. 3;
[0012] FIG. 5 is a sectional view of the plenum of FIG. 3, taken along the line A-A;
[0013] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional top view of the plenum of FIG. 3;
[0014] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a routing configuration for hoses that may be coupled to the plenum of FIG. 3;
[0015] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a routing configuration for hoses that may be coupled to the plenum of FIG. 3; and
[0016] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a further embodiment of a routing configuration for hoses that may be coupled to the plenum of FIG. 3.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0017] One or more specific embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below. In an effort to provide a concise description of these embodiments, all features of an actual implementation may not be described in the specification. It should be appreciated that in the development of any such actual implementation, as in any engineering or design project, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developers' specific goals, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints, which may vary from one implementation to another. Moreover, it should be appreciated that such a development effort might be complex and time consuming, but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking of design, fabrication, and manufacture for those of ordinary skill having the benefit of this disclosure.
[0018] When introducing elements of various embodiments of the present disclosure, the articles "a," "an," "the," and "said" are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms "comprising," "including," and "having" are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements. Any examples of operating parameters and/or environmental conditions are not exclusive of other parameters/conditions of the disclosed embodiments.
[0019] Certain agricultural implements may distribute a granular product (e.g., seeds or fertilizer) from a centralized location to multiple rows of ground engaging opener assemblies. Additionally, each of the ground engaging opener assemblies may engage the ground to excavate a trench, in which the received granular product is deposited. In this manner, rows of the granular product may be deposited into the ground. The granular product may be any suitable particulate material that is desired to be deposited into the ground, such as various types of seeds and fertilizers.
However, to simplify the following discussion, the product will be described as seeds.
Nevertheless, one or ordinary skill in the art would recognize that the techniques described herein may be easily adapted for use with other products.
However, to simplify the following discussion, the product will be described as seeds.
Nevertheless, one or ordinary skill in the art would recognize that the techniques described herein may be easily adapted for use with other products.
[0020] Generally, each of the ground engaging opener assemblies may not include adjustable control over the deposition of seeds. Instead, a ground engaging opener assembly may pneumatically receive seeds via a pneumatic hose. The ground engaging opener assembly may then utilize gravity to drop received seeds into a trench. In other words, the ground engaging opener assembly may deposit seeds based on fixed parameters, such as the size of the hose and/or the flow rate of seeds to the ground engaging opener assembly, among other factors. However, in certain embodiments, the ground engaging opener assemblies may include adjustable control over the deposition of seeds (e.g., planters).
[0021] Generally, the seeds may be stored in a centralized location, such as in storage tanks of an air cart, before being distributed to each of the ground engaging opener assemblies. In certain embodiments, the centralized location is pressurized (e.g., via the pneumatic hose). It may be possible to control (e.g., meter) the seed distribution from the centralized location. However, when multiple ground engaging opener assemblies are utilized, seeds may not be equally distributed and potential plugging may occur.
[0022] Additionally, it may be desirable to deposit seeds using only a portion of the ground engaging units. For example, due to a generally fixed size of the agricultural implement, a portion of the ground under the agricultural implement may have been previously seeded or may be otherwise undesirable to seed. In such instances, it may be desirable to enable sectional control across the agricultural implement by enabling a portion of the ground engaging opener assemblies to deposit seeds while disabling another portion of the ground engaging opener assemblies. However, centrally controlling distribution of seeds may make it difficult to implement sectional control since seeds are distributed to each of the ground engaging opener assemblies.
[0023] Accordingly, as will be described in more detail below, a system for supplying air to an agricultural implement and a seed tank is disclosed. For example, a plenum is coupled to an air source and configured to direct the air from the air source toward the agricultural implement. The plenum includes outlet ports configured to couple to hoses that distribute the air to the agricultural implement. Additionally, the plenum includes a pressurization port configured to supply pressurized air to the tank. In certain embodiments, the plenum includes a baffle assembly disposed within the plenum and configured to regulate the air flow through the plenum. For example, the baffle assembly may be configured to establish different air velocities at the outlet ports. As a result, the hoses may receive the air flow at different velocities to compensate for line losses associated with varying lengths of the hoses.
Moreover, the tank may receive a dedicated flow of air to maintain pressurization of the tank, thereby controlling seed distribution during seeding operations.
Moreover, the tank may receive a dedicated flow of air to maintain pressurization of the tank, thereby controlling seed distribution during seeding operations.
[0024] To help illustrate, a side view of an agricultural implement 10 coupled to an air cart 12 is shown in FIG. 1. As depicted, the agricultural implement 10 includes a tool frame 14 coupled to a ground engaging opener assembly 16, a header 18, and wheel assemblies 20.
[0025] The agricultural implement may be pulled by an off-road work vehicle (e.g., a tractor) to deposit rows of product. Accordingly, the wheel assemblies 20 may contact the soil surface to enable the agricultural implement 10 to be pulled by the off-road work vehicle. As the agricultural implement 10 is pulled, a row of product may be deposited into the soil by the ground engaging opener assembly 16.
Although only one ground engaging opener assembly 16 is shown, the agricultural implement may include multiple ground engaging opener assemblies 16 organized in a row across the agricultural implement 10. In some embodiments, the agricultural implement 10 may include a row of 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, or more ground engaging opener assemblies 16, which may each deposit a row of seeds.
Although only one ground engaging opener assembly 16 is shown, the agricultural implement may include multiple ground engaging opener assemblies 16 organized in a row across the agricultural implement 10. In some embodiments, the agricultural implement 10 may include a row of 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, or more ground engaging opener assemblies 16, which may each deposit a row of seeds.
[0026] To facilitate depositing seeds, each ground engaging opener assembly 16 includes an opener 17, a press wheel 19, and a seed tube 21. More specifically, when the opener 17 engages the soil, the opener 17 may exert a downward force that excavates a trench into the soil as the ground engaging opener assembly 16 travels through the field. Seeds may then be deposited into the excavated trench via the seed tube 21. Then, the press wheel 19 may pack soil onto the seeds.
[0027] As described above, the deposition of seeds by the ground engaging opener assembly 16 may be controlled by the distribution of seeds from the header 18.
In some embodiments, the header 18 may pneumatically distribute the seeds from a primary line to a second line. For example, a hose 34 may direct seeds from the air cart 12 to the header 18. Additionally, the header 18 may distribute the seeds to the ground engaging opener assembly 16 via a hose 22. In certain embodiments, multiple hoses 34 may direct seeds to the multiple headers 18. Moreover, multiple hoses may be coupled to multiple opener assemblies 17.
In some embodiments, the header 18 may pneumatically distribute the seeds from a primary line to a second line. For example, a hose 34 may direct seeds from the air cart 12 to the header 18. Additionally, the header 18 may distribute the seeds to the ground engaging opener assembly 16 via a hose 22. In certain embodiments, multiple hoses 34 may direct seeds to the multiple headers 18. Moreover, multiple hoses may be coupled to multiple opener assemblies 17.
[0028] In the depicted embodiment, the air cart 12 is towed behind the agricultural implement 10. More specifically, the agricultural implement 10 may be coupled to the off-road work vehicle by a first hitch assembly (not shown), and the air cart 12 may be coupled to the agricultural implement 10 by a second hitch assembly 24.
However, in other embodiments, the agricultural implement 10 may be towed behind the air cart 12. In further embodiments, the implement 10 and the air cart 12 may be part of a single unit that is towed behind an off-road work vehicle or may be elements of a self-propelled vehicle.
However, in other embodiments, the agricultural implement 10 may be towed behind the air cart 12. In further embodiments, the implement 10 and the air cart 12 may be part of a single unit that is towed behind an off-road work vehicle or may be elements of a self-propelled vehicle.
[0029] As described above, the air cart 12 may centrally store seeds and distribute the seeds to the headers 18. Accordingly, as depicted, the air cart 12 includes a storage tank 26, a frame 28, wheels 30, and an air source 32. More specifically, the towing hitch 24 is coupled between the tool frame 14 and the air cart frame 28, which enables the air cart 12 to be towed with the agricultural implement 10.
[0030] Additionally, the storage tank 26 may centrally store the product. In some embodiments, the storage tank 26 may include multiple compartments for storing different types of product. For example, a first compartment may store seeds while a second compartment may store a dry fertilizer. In such configurations, the air cart 12 may deliver both seed and fertilizer to the implement 10 via separate distribution systems, or as a mixture through a single distribution system.
[0031] From the storage tank 26, the product (e.g., seeds) may be fed into a pneumatic distribution system 33 (e.g., a pneumatic metering system, a metering system), which pneumatically distributes the seeds to the headers 18 via respective hoses 34. As depicted, the pneumatic distribution system 33 is mounted to the bottom of the storage tank 26. To facilitate distributing seeds, an air stream generated by the air source 32 is guided though the pneumatic distribution system 33 via a plenum 36.
In some embodiments, the air source 32 may be a pump or blower powered by an electric or hydraulic motor, for example.
In some embodiments, the air source 32 may be a pump or blower powered by an electric or hydraulic motor, for example.
[0032] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an embodiment of a seeding system 40 configured to supply seeds from the tank 26 to the agricultural implement 10 via the hose 34. In certain embodiments, the seeding system 40 is a product delivery system configured to distribute granular product and air to the agricultural implement 10.
Moreover, in certain embodiments, the seeding system 40 may be referred to as a pneumatic product delivery system. In the illustrated embodiment, the air source 32 supplies a flow of pressurized air to the plenum 36. As will be described in detail below, the plenum 36 is configured to receive the air from the air source 32 and to distribute the air throughout the seeding system 40. In the illustrated embodiment, the hose 34 couples to the plenum 36 to direct air to the distribution system 33 from the plenum 36. It will be appreciated that the plenum 36 may couple to 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 or any suitable number of hoses 34 to distribute air to the seeding system 40. Moreover, a pressurization hose 42 extends from the plenum 36 to the tank 26. As mentioned above, the tank 26 is pressurized to enhance seeding and/or metering operations. For example, seed dispersal into the distribution system
Moreover, in certain embodiments, the seeding system 40 may be referred to as a pneumatic product delivery system. In the illustrated embodiment, the air source 32 supplies a flow of pressurized air to the plenum 36. As will be described in detail below, the plenum 36 is configured to receive the air from the air source 32 and to distribute the air throughout the seeding system 40. In the illustrated embodiment, the hose 34 couples to the plenum 36 to direct air to the distribution system 33 from the plenum 36. It will be appreciated that the plenum 36 may couple to 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 or any suitable number of hoses 34 to distribute air to the seeding system 40. Moreover, a pressurization hose 42 extends from the plenum 36 to the tank 26. As mentioned above, the tank 26 is pressurized to enhance seeding and/or metering operations. For example, seed dispersal into the distribution system
33 may be improved by pressurizing the tank 26 to encourage seeds to flow toward the distribution system 33.
[0033] Moreover, the tank 26 is configured to supply seeds to the distribution system 33. In certain embodiments, the distribution system 33 is coupled directly to the tank 26. For example, the distribution system 33 may be integral with the tank 26.
The distribution system 33 is configured to receive the seeds from the tank 26 and to direct the seeds into the hoses 34 extending from the plenum 36. The seeds and pressurized air combine in the distribution system 33 and the pressurized air carries and/or directs the seeds toward the agricultural implement 10 for planting via the opener assemblies 16.
[0033] Moreover, the tank 26 is configured to supply seeds to the distribution system 33. In certain embodiments, the distribution system 33 is coupled directly to the tank 26. For example, the distribution system 33 may be integral with the tank 26.
The distribution system 33 is configured to receive the seeds from the tank 26 and to direct the seeds into the hoses 34 extending from the plenum 36. The seeds and pressurized air combine in the distribution system 33 and the pressurized air carries and/or directs the seeds toward the agricultural implement 10 for planting via the opener assemblies 16.
[0034] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the plenum 36. The plenum 36 includes a body 50 having a flange 52 positioned at a first end 54 and outlet ports 56 positioned at a second end 58. In the illustrated embodiment, the plenum 36 includes an inlet 55 fluidly coupled to the air source 32 (e.g., via coupling of the flange 52 to a body of the air source 32) and configured to direct air from the air source 32 in to the plenum 36. In the illustrated embodiment, the flange 52 includes apertures 59 configured to rigidly couple the plenum 36 to a body of the air source 32 or conduit distributing air from the air source 32 (e.g., via fasteners).
However, in other embodiments, the flange 52 may be welded, clamped, or otherwise secured to the air source 32 or conduit. Moreover, in certain embodiments, the flange 52 may be coupled to a hose or duct that supplies air from the air source 32.
However, in other embodiments, the flange 52 may be welded, clamped, or otherwise secured to the air source 32 or conduit. Moreover, in certain embodiments, the flange 52 may be coupled to a hose or duct that supplies air from the air source 32.
[0035] In the illustrated embodiment, the outlet ports 56 are configured to couple to the hoses 34 to supply pressurized air to the distribution system 33 and, as a result, to the agricultural implement 10. For example, the hoses 34 may be clamped or otherwise coupled to the outlet ports 56. The outlet ports 56 are generally cylindrical and positioned on a face 60 at the second end 58 of the plenum 36.
[0036] The body 50 of the plenum 36 is formed by a first side 62 and a second side 64 each coupled to a top surface 66 and a bottom surface 68. In the illustrated embodiment, edges 70 between the first and second sides 62, 64 and the top and bottom surfaces 66, 68 are rounded (e.g., arcuate). However, in other embodiments, the edges 70 may be chamfered, angled, or any other suitable shape to enhance the structural integrity of the plenum 36, the air distribution properties of the plenum 36, or to facilitate the assembly and/or production of the plenum 36. Moreover, in the illustrated embodiment, rounds 71 are included at the connection points between the surfaces of the plenum 36. For example, the rounds 71 form a transition between the face 60 and the top surface 66. Furthermore, the rounds 71 form a transition between the flange 52 and the body 50 of the plenum 36. In the illustrated embodiment, the rounds 71 are generally arcuate or curved. However, in other embodiments, the rounds 71 may be chamfered, linear, angled, or any other suitable shape to enhance the structural integrity of the plenum 36, enhance the air distribution properties of the plenum 36, or to facilitate the assembly and/or production of the plenum 36.
As shown, the first and second sides 62, 64 are substantially mirrored or symmetrical about a longitudinal axis/centerline 72. Additionally, the top and bottom surfaces 66, 68 are also mirrored about the longitudinal axis/centerline 72. However, in other embodiments, the first and second sides 62, 64 and/or the top and bottom surfaces 66, 68 may be asymmetrical about the longitudinal axis/centerline 72. For example, operating parameters of the air source 32 may encourage an asymmetrical plenum to establish desired flow characteristics at the outlet ports 56. As used herein, flow characteristics may refer to the pressure, velocity, flow rate, or a combination thereof of the air flow within the plenum 36. Moreover, the first and second sides 62, include a curved portion 74 extending from the first end 54 to the face 60. In the illustrated embodiment, the curved portion 74 forms a first width 76 at the first end 54 that is smaller than a second width 78 at the second end 58. As used herein, width refers to a lateral extend of the body 50 of the plenum 36. In other words, the first and second sides 62, 64 flare out from the inlet 55 to the face 60. In certain embodiments, the curved portion 74 may be sinusoidal. However, in other embodiments the curved portion 74 may be any suitable shape to direct air flow from the flange 52 to the outlet ports 56. Moreover, in other embodiments, a first portion of at least one side proximate to the flange 52 (e.g., at the first end 54) may be substantially linear while a second portion proximate to the face 60 (e.g., at the second end 58) includes the curved portion 74. In other words, the plenum 36 may be substantially bell shaped. However, in other embodiments, the plenum 36 may be other suitable shapes and include linear/straight portions in place of the curved portions 74 or integrated with the curved portions 64.
10037] Turning to the outlet ports 56, in the illustrated embodiment, the outlet ports 56 are positioned in an approximately symmetrical arrangement relative to the longitudinal axis/centerline 72. That is, the outlet ports 56 are positioned on opposite lateral sides of a pressurization port 80. In the illustrated embodiment, the pressurization port 80 is centered laterally and vertically on the face 60.
For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the longitudinal axis/centerline 72 is coaxial with the pressurization port 80. As will be described in detail below, the pressurization port 80 is configured to direct an air flow to the tank 26 to maintain a positive pressure within the tank 26 during seeding operations. Moreover, by providing a pressurization port 80 on the plenum 36 that is directly coupled to the tank 26, sectional control of the seeding operations is enabled without impacting the pressurization of the tank 26.
Moreover, in embodiments where the air cart 12 includes multiple tanks 26, each tank 26 may be pressurized during sectional control. In the illustrated embodiment, the outlet ports 56 include an outlet fitting 82 configured to couple the outlet ports 56 to the face 60. For example, the outlet fitting 82 may be an olet (e.g, weldolet, sockolet, etc.) that has a tapered surface to encourage air flow toward the outlet ports 56.
However, in other embodiments, the outlet ports 56 and/or the pressurization port 80 may be integrally formed with the body 50 of the plenum 36. For example, in certain embodiments, the plenum 36 may be single piece formed from a metal, polymer, or any other suitable material. As will be described in detail below, the hoses 34 are configured to couple to the outlet ports 56 such that desired flow characteristics (e.g., a desired pressure profile and uniform velocity) is provided to the agricultural implement 10 via the hoses 34.
[0038] FIG. 4 is a front view of the face 60 of the plenum 36. As described above, the outlet ports 56 are arranged on the face 60 in a substantially symmetrical arrangement relative to the longitudinal axis/centerline 72. Moreover, while the illustrated embodiment includes eight outlet ports 56, in other embodiments the face 60 may include 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, or any suitable number of outlet ports 56 to provide air flow to the agricultural implement 10.
Moreover, in certain embodiments, the outlet ports 56 are arranged asymmetrically on the face 60.
Furthermore, in other embodiments, the outlet ports 56 may be arranged on the first side 62, the second side 64, the top surface 66, and/or the bottom surface 68 based on desired air flow through the outlet ports 56.
[0039] As will be described in detail below, the plenum 36 includes a baffle assembly 84 configured to direct air flow from the inlet 55 to the outlet ports 56. In the illustrated embodiment, a first baffle 86 and a second baffle 88 are disposed within the plenum 36. The first and second baffles 86, 88 are arranged at an angle, relative to one another, such that a first passage 90 is formed between the first and second baffles 86, 88. The first passage 90 directs air flow down the longitudinal axis/centerline 72, while also enabling flow around either side of the first and second baffles 86, 88.
[0040] Moreover, the baffle assembly 84 is configured to produce desired flow characteristics (e.g., a pressure profile and uniform velocity/flow rate) through the plenum 36. For example, the baffle assembly 84 may be configured to direct the air flow through the plenum 36 such that different outlet ports 56 direct air toward the agricultural implement 10 at different pressures (e.g., due to resistance in the hoses 34). For example, the outlet ports 56a, 56b may direct air toward the agricultural implement 10 at a higher pressure than the outlet ports 56c, 56d due to the configuration of the baffle assembly 84. Additionally, in certain embodiments, the outlet ports 56g, 56h may distribute air at a higher pressure than the outlet ports 56e, 56f. Also, in other embodiments, the outside ports (e.g., 56a, 56b, 56g, 56h) may be configured to have a higher pressure than the inside ports (e.g., 56c, 56d, 56e, 560.
Accordingly, as will be described below, longer hoses 34 may be coupled to the outlet ports 56 having higher and air velocities to account for line losses and to reduce the likelihood of plugging in the hoses 34.
100411 FIG. 5 is a sectional perspective view of the plenum 36 taken along line A-A
of FIG. 4. As described above, the outlet ports 56 are arranged symmetrically about the longitudinal axis/centerline 72, in the illustrated embodiment. As a result, the four outlet ports 56 depicted in FIG. 5 represent the other four outlet ports 56 not shown.
Moreover, half of the pressurization port 80 is not shown. The baffle assembly 84 is positioned proximate to the first end 54 of the plenum 36, in the illustrated embodiment. However, in other embodiments, the plenum 36 may be positioned in substantially the center of the plenum 36, proximate to the second end 58 of the plenum 36, or any other suitable location to direct the air flow to the outlet ports 56.
As mentioned above, the first baffle 86 and the second baffle 88 are angled, relative to one another (and to the longitudinal axis/centerline 72), to form the first passage 90.
As a result, a first passage opening 92 is smaller than a second passage opening 94 (e.g., a cross-sectional area of the first passage opening 92 is less than a cross-sectional area of the second passage opening 94). As will be appreciated, the larger second passage opening 94 is configured to reduce the velocity of the air travelling through the first passage 90. Accordingly, different outlet ports 56 may receive the air flow at different velocities. Moreover, while the illustrated embodiment includes the first and second baffles 86, 88, in other embodiments 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, or any suitable number of baffles may be included to direct the air flow through the plenum 36. As will be described below, supplying air to the outlet ports 56 with different velocities may enable the hoses 34 having different lengths to obtain the desired flow distribution and reduce the likelihood of plugging of the hoses 34seed .
[0042] The baffle assembly 84 extends from the bottom surface 68 of the plenum to the top surface 66 of the plenum 36. As a result, the baffle assembly forms three flow passages. The first passage 90 is disposed between the first and second baffles 86, 88. A second passage 96 is formed between the first side 62 and the first baffle 86, and a third passage 98 is formed between the second side 64 and the second baffle 88. In certain embodiments, the first, second, and third passages 90, 96, 98 have varying flow characteristics based on the air flow from the air source 32. For example, the air source 32 may introduce a high pressure air flow into the plenum 36 at the inlet 55 that is directed toward the first passage 90. However, the introduction of the first and second baffles 86, 88 are configured to divert a portion of the air flow toward the second and third passages 96, 98. Additionally, the configuration of the baffle assembly 84 may modify the flow characteristics in each of the passages 90, 96, 98. For example, as the cross-sectional area of the flow passages decreases, the velocity of the flow traveling through the passage increases. Additionally, as the cross-sectional area of the flow passages increases, the velocity of the flow traveling through the passages decreases. Moreover, the baffle assembly 84 may be designed to account for multiple flow vortices at the inlet 55 introduced by the air flow from the air source 32. Accordingly, the baffle assembly 84 may be designed to obtain desired flow characteristics within the plenum 36.
[0043] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional top view of the plenum 36 taken along line A-A of FIG. 4. As shown, the baffle assembly 84 is arranged substantially symmetrically about the longitudinal axis/centerline 72. In other words, the longitudinal axis/centerline 72 is coaxial with the center of the first passage 90.
However, in other embodiments, the baffle assembly 84 may not be symmetric about the longitudinal axis/centerline 72. For example, in certain embodiments the first baffle 86 may be arranged at a larger angle, relative to the longitudinal axis/centerline 72, than the second baffle 88. To that end, the first baffle 86 is arranged at a first angle 100, relative to the longitudinal axis/centerline 72. Moreover, the second baffle 88 is arranged at a second angle 102, relative to the longitudinal axis/centerline 72. In certain embodiments, the first and second angles 100, 102 are equal. However, in other embodiments, the first and second angles 100, 102 are not equal. In the illustrated embodiment, the first angle 100 is approximately 10 degrees and the second angle 102 is approximately 10 degrees. However, in other embodiments, the first and second angles 100, 102 may be 5 degrees, 10 degrees, 20 degrees, 30 degrees, 40 degrees, 50 degrees, 70 degrees, 80 degrees, or any other angle suitable for the operating conditions. Moreover, in certain embodiments, the first and second angles 100, 102 may be between 5 degrees and 30 degrees, between 30 degrees and 50 degrees, between 50 degrees and 70 degrees, between 70 degrees and 90 degrees, or any other suitable range based on the operating conditions.
[0044] Moreover, the first and second baffles 86, 88 are configured to extend a distance along a length 104 of the plenum 36 to direct the air flow toward the outlet ports 56. For example, the first baffle 86 has a first length 106 and the second baffle has a second length 108. In the illustrated embodiment, the first length 106 is equal to the second length 108. However, in other embodiments, the first length 106 may not be equal to the second length 108. For example, the first length 106 may be longer than the second length 108 to further direct the air flow down the second passage 96.
In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second lengths 106, 108 are approximately 40 percent of the length 104 of the plenum 36. However, in other embodiments, the first and second lengths 106, 108 may be 10 percent, 20 percent, 30 percent, percent, 60 percent, 70 percent, 80 percent, 90 percent, or any suitable percentage of the length 104 of the plenum 36. Additionally, the first and second lengths 106, 108 may be between 10 and 40 percent, 40 to 60 percent, 60 to 80 percent, or any suitable percentage of the length 104 of the plenum 36. As will be appreciated, the first and second lengths 106, 108 may be varied to obtain desirable flow characteristics within the plenum 36.
[0045] Furthermore, the baffle assembly 84 is positioned proximate to the first end 54 of the plenum 36, in the illustrated embodiment. The first and second baffles 86, 88 are positioned at an offset distance 110 from the inlet 55. In the illustrated embodiment, the offset distance 110 is approximately 15 percent of the length 104 of the plenum 36. However, in other embodiments, the offset distance 110 may be 5 percent, 10 percent, 20 percent, 30 percent, 40 percent, 50 percent, or any other suitable percentage of the length 104 to direct the air flow toward the outlet ports 56.
Additionally, the offset distance 110 may be between 5 percent and 20 percent, percent and 30 percent, 40 percent and 50 percent, or any other suitable range of percentages of the length 104 of the plenum 36. In certain embodiments, the first baffle 86 and the second baffle 88 are an equal offset distance 110 from the inlet 55.
However, in other embodiments, the first baffle 86 may be closer to the inlet 55 or the second baffle 88 may be closer to the inlet 55. As will be appreciated, the position of the baffle assembly 84 relative to the inlet 55 may be modified to obtain desirable flow characteristics in the plenum 36. Moreover, while the illustrated embodiment includes a fixed baffle assembly 84, in certain embodiments the baffle assembly 84 and/or the individual baffles of the baffle assembly 84 (e.g., the first baffle 86, the second baffle 88) may be adjustable. For instance, the first and second baffles 86, 88 may be disposed on a tract that is configured to enable the first and second baffles 86, 88 to adjust the offset distance 110. Furthermore, the first and second angles 100, 102 may be adjustable. Additionally, in certain embodiments, the baffle assembly 84 may be automatically adjustable (e.g., via actuators) to provide air flow customization.
[0046] Accordingly, the air flow may be regulated through the plenum 36 to distribute air to different outlet ports 56 at different velocities and/or flow rates. For example, the pressurization port 80 is configured to couple to the pressurization hose 42 to pressurize the tank 26. In certain embodiments, the desired pressure to the tank 26 may be less than the desired pressure of the hoses 34 configured to direct the flow of air to the agricultural implement 10. Moreover, in certain embodiments, the flow rate to the tank 26 may also be lower than the flow rate to the hoses 34. By utilizing a desirable configuration of the baffle assembly 84, the flow rates to different parts of the plenum 36 may be regulated to satisfy a variety of desired flow conditions.
[0047] FIGS. 7-9 are perspective views of a routing configuration 112 of the hoses 34 extending from the plenum 36. It should be noted that the hoses 34 illustrated in FIGS. 7-9 are configured to extend to the distribution system 33 to receive the seeds before further extending to the agricultural implement 10. As a result, the hoses 34 illustrated in FIGS. 7-9 are described in relation to their lengths relative to the total length of the hoses 34 extending to the agricultural implement 10 and not to the length of the hoses 34 extending to the distribution system 33. FIG. 7 illustrates an embodiment of a six hose system configured to direct air to the agricultural implement 10. In the illustrated embodiment, only six of the outlet ports 56 are configured to direct air to the hoses 34 (e.g., outlet ports 56a, 56b, 56e, 56f, 56g, 56h).
The other outlet ports 56 (e.g., outlet ports 56c, 56d) may be capped to block air flow out of the plenum. In the illustrated embodiment, the hose 34b is coupled to the outlet port 56b. In certain embodiments, the outlet port 56b is configured to have a higher velocity than the outlet port 56a. As a result, the hose 34b having a longer length to the agricultural implement 10 is configured to couple to the outlet port 56b.
Moreover, because the velocity, in the illustrated embodiment, is higher in the outlet port 56b than the outlet port 56a, the hose 34a is shorter than the hose 36b.
Similarly, the corresponding hoses 34c, 34d, 34e, 34f, 34g, 34h may couple to corresponding outlet ports 56c, 56d, 56e, 56f, 56g, 56h based on the length of the hoses 34.
However, it should be noted that other six hose routing configurations may be utilized. For example, the outlet ports 56e, 56f may be plugged. Additionally, longer hoses 34 having a higher static pressure may couple to outlet ports 56 having higher air velocity to account for line losses and/or reduce the likelihood of seed plugging in the hoses. 34. In this manner, the air flow at the agricultural implement 10 through the hoses 34 may be substantially equal because the longer hoses 34 may have a higher pressure air flow directed from the associated outlet ports 56 at the plenum 36.
100481 FIG. 8 is an embodiment of a seven hose system configured to direct air to the agricultural implement 10. As mentioned above, in certain configurations the hoses 34 having longer lengths may be coupled to the outlet ports 56 having higher air velocities. Accordingly, the baffle assembly 84 may be configured to direct an air flow having a higher air velocity to the outlet port 56b associated with the hose 34b.
Furthermore, in other embodiments, different outlet ports 56 may be plugged to enable the seven hose configuration. For example, the outlet port 56f may be plugged to enable the desired flow characteristics. FIG. 9 is an embodiment of an eight hose system configured to direct air to the agricultural implement 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the hose 34b is longer than the hose 34a. As a result, the air in hose 34b may experience greater line losses, resulting in a lower outlet pressure.
Accordingly, the baffle assembly 84 may be configured to direct air at a higher velocity to the outlet port 56b associated with the hose 34b such that the hoses 34a, 34b will have approximately the same pressure at the agricultural implement 10.
[0049] As described in detail above, the plenum 36 is configured to direct the air flow received from the air source 32 toward the agricultural implement 10 and the tank 26.
For example, the plenum 36 may include the baffle assembly 84 to direct air in the plenum 36 to the outlet ports 56. The baffle assembly 84 may be configured to regulate the velocity of the air flow to certain outlet ports 56 as a function of the hoses 34 coupled to the outlet ports 56. As a result, the hoses 34 coupled to the outlet ports 56 may receive the air flow at different air velocities to account for the static pressure in the hoses 34. In embodiments where certain hoses 34 are longer than other hoses 34, the outlet ports 56 coupled to the longer hoses 34 (e.g., hose 34b) may be configured to distribute air at a higher velocity than the outlet ports 56 coupled to the shorter hoses 34 (e.g., 34c). Moreover, the plenum 36 includes the pressurization port 80 configured to couple to the pressurization hose 42 to supply pressurized air to the tank 26. As mentioned above, the baffle assembly 84 may provide the air flow to the pressurization port 80 at a desired pressure/velocity/flow rate to facilitate seeding operations.
[0050] While only certain features of the invention have been illustrated and described herein, many modifications and changes will occur to those skilled in the art. It is, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes as fall within the true spirit of the invention.
As shown, the first and second sides 62, 64 are substantially mirrored or symmetrical about a longitudinal axis/centerline 72. Additionally, the top and bottom surfaces 66, 68 are also mirrored about the longitudinal axis/centerline 72. However, in other embodiments, the first and second sides 62, 64 and/or the top and bottom surfaces 66, 68 may be asymmetrical about the longitudinal axis/centerline 72. For example, operating parameters of the air source 32 may encourage an asymmetrical plenum to establish desired flow characteristics at the outlet ports 56. As used herein, flow characteristics may refer to the pressure, velocity, flow rate, or a combination thereof of the air flow within the plenum 36. Moreover, the first and second sides 62, include a curved portion 74 extending from the first end 54 to the face 60. In the illustrated embodiment, the curved portion 74 forms a first width 76 at the first end 54 that is smaller than a second width 78 at the second end 58. As used herein, width refers to a lateral extend of the body 50 of the plenum 36. In other words, the first and second sides 62, 64 flare out from the inlet 55 to the face 60. In certain embodiments, the curved portion 74 may be sinusoidal. However, in other embodiments the curved portion 74 may be any suitable shape to direct air flow from the flange 52 to the outlet ports 56. Moreover, in other embodiments, a first portion of at least one side proximate to the flange 52 (e.g., at the first end 54) may be substantially linear while a second portion proximate to the face 60 (e.g., at the second end 58) includes the curved portion 74. In other words, the plenum 36 may be substantially bell shaped. However, in other embodiments, the plenum 36 may be other suitable shapes and include linear/straight portions in place of the curved portions 74 or integrated with the curved portions 64.
10037] Turning to the outlet ports 56, in the illustrated embodiment, the outlet ports 56 are positioned in an approximately symmetrical arrangement relative to the longitudinal axis/centerline 72. That is, the outlet ports 56 are positioned on opposite lateral sides of a pressurization port 80. In the illustrated embodiment, the pressurization port 80 is centered laterally and vertically on the face 60.
For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the longitudinal axis/centerline 72 is coaxial with the pressurization port 80. As will be described in detail below, the pressurization port 80 is configured to direct an air flow to the tank 26 to maintain a positive pressure within the tank 26 during seeding operations. Moreover, by providing a pressurization port 80 on the plenum 36 that is directly coupled to the tank 26, sectional control of the seeding operations is enabled without impacting the pressurization of the tank 26.
Moreover, in embodiments where the air cart 12 includes multiple tanks 26, each tank 26 may be pressurized during sectional control. In the illustrated embodiment, the outlet ports 56 include an outlet fitting 82 configured to couple the outlet ports 56 to the face 60. For example, the outlet fitting 82 may be an olet (e.g, weldolet, sockolet, etc.) that has a tapered surface to encourage air flow toward the outlet ports 56.
However, in other embodiments, the outlet ports 56 and/or the pressurization port 80 may be integrally formed with the body 50 of the plenum 36. For example, in certain embodiments, the plenum 36 may be single piece formed from a metal, polymer, or any other suitable material. As will be described in detail below, the hoses 34 are configured to couple to the outlet ports 56 such that desired flow characteristics (e.g., a desired pressure profile and uniform velocity) is provided to the agricultural implement 10 via the hoses 34.
[0038] FIG. 4 is a front view of the face 60 of the plenum 36. As described above, the outlet ports 56 are arranged on the face 60 in a substantially symmetrical arrangement relative to the longitudinal axis/centerline 72. Moreover, while the illustrated embodiment includes eight outlet ports 56, in other embodiments the face 60 may include 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, or any suitable number of outlet ports 56 to provide air flow to the agricultural implement 10.
Moreover, in certain embodiments, the outlet ports 56 are arranged asymmetrically on the face 60.
Furthermore, in other embodiments, the outlet ports 56 may be arranged on the first side 62, the second side 64, the top surface 66, and/or the bottom surface 68 based on desired air flow through the outlet ports 56.
[0039] As will be described in detail below, the plenum 36 includes a baffle assembly 84 configured to direct air flow from the inlet 55 to the outlet ports 56. In the illustrated embodiment, a first baffle 86 and a second baffle 88 are disposed within the plenum 36. The first and second baffles 86, 88 are arranged at an angle, relative to one another, such that a first passage 90 is formed between the first and second baffles 86, 88. The first passage 90 directs air flow down the longitudinal axis/centerline 72, while also enabling flow around either side of the first and second baffles 86, 88.
[0040] Moreover, the baffle assembly 84 is configured to produce desired flow characteristics (e.g., a pressure profile and uniform velocity/flow rate) through the plenum 36. For example, the baffle assembly 84 may be configured to direct the air flow through the plenum 36 such that different outlet ports 56 direct air toward the agricultural implement 10 at different pressures (e.g., due to resistance in the hoses 34). For example, the outlet ports 56a, 56b may direct air toward the agricultural implement 10 at a higher pressure than the outlet ports 56c, 56d due to the configuration of the baffle assembly 84. Additionally, in certain embodiments, the outlet ports 56g, 56h may distribute air at a higher pressure than the outlet ports 56e, 56f. Also, in other embodiments, the outside ports (e.g., 56a, 56b, 56g, 56h) may be configured to have a higher pressure than the inside ports (e.g., 56c, 56d, 56e, 560.
Accordingly, as will be described below, longer hoses 34 may be coupled to the outlet ports 56 having higher and air velocities to account for line losses and to reduce the likelihood of plugging in the hoses 34.
100411 FIG. 5 is a sectional perspective view of the plenum 36 taken along line A-A
of FIG. 4. As described above, the outlet ports 56 are arranged symmetrically about the longitudinal axis/centerline 72, in the illustrated embodiment. As a result, the four outlet ports 56 depicted in FIG. 5 represent the other four outlet ports 56 not shown.
Moreover, half of the pressurization port 80 is not shown. The baffle assembly 84 is positioned proximate to the first end 54 of the plenum 36, in the illustrated embodiment. However, in other embodiments, the plenum 36 may be positioned in substantially the center of the plenum 36, proximate to the second end 58 of the plenum 36, or any other suitable location to direct the air flow to the outlet ports 56.
As mentioned above, the first baffle 86 and the second baffle 88 are angled, relative to one another (and to the longitudinal axis/centerline 72), to form the first passage 90.
As a result, a first passage opening 92 is smaller than a second passage opening 94 (e.g., a cross-sectional area of the first passage opening 92 is less than a cross-sectional area of the second passage opening 94). As will be appreciated, the larger second passage opening 94 is configured to reduce the velocity of the air travelling through the first passage 90. Accordingly, different outlet ports 56 may receive the air flow at different velocities. Moreover, while the illustrated embodiment includes the first and second baffles 86, 88, in other embodiments 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, or any suitable number of baffles may be included to direct the air flow through the plenum 36. As will be described below, supplying air to the outlet ports 56 with different velocities may enable the hoses 34 having different lengths to obtain the desired flow distribution and reduce the likelihood of plugging of the hoses 34seed .
[0042] The baffle assembly 84 extends from the bottom surface 68 of the plenum to the top surface 66 of the plenum 36. As a result, the baffle assembly forms three flow passages. The first passage 90 is disposed between the first and second baffles 86, 88. A second passage 96 is formed between the first side 62 and the first baffle 86, and a third passage 98 is formed between the second side 64 and the second baffle 88. In certain embodiments, the first, second, and third passages 90, 96, 98 have varying flow characteristics based on the air flow from the air source 32. For example, the air source 32 may introduce a high pressure air flow into the plenum 36 at the inlet 55 that is directed toward the first passage 90. However, the introduction of the first and second baffles 86, 88 are configured to divert a portion of the air flow toward the second and third passages 96, 98. Additionally, the configuration of the baffle assembly 84 may modify the flow characteristics in each of the passages 90, 96, 98. For example, as the cross-sectional area of the flow passages decreases, the velocity of the flow traveling through the passage increases. Additionally, as the cross-sectional area of the flow passages increases, the velocity of the flow traveling through the passages decreases. Moreover, the baffle assembly 84 may be designed to account for multiple flow vortices at the inlet 55 introduced by the air flow from the air source 32. Accordingly, the baffle assembly 84 may be designed to obtain desired flow characteristics within the plenum 36.
[0043] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional top view of the plenum 36 taken along line A-A of FIG. 4. As shown, the baffle assembly 84 is arranged substantially symmetrically about the longitudinal axis/centerline 72. In other words, the longitudinal axis/centerline 72 is coaxial with the center of the first passage 90.
However, in other embodiments, the baffle assembly 84 may not be symmetric about the longitudinal axis/centerline 72. For example, in certain embodiments the first baffle 86 may be arranged at a larger angle, relative to the longitudinal axis/centerline 72, than the second baffle 88. To that end, the first baffle 86 is arranged at a first angle 100, relative to the longitudinal axis/centerline 72. Moreover, the second baffle 88 is arranged at a second angle 102, relative to the longitudinal axis/centerline 72. In certain embodiments, the first and second angles 100, 102 are equal. However, in other embodiments, the first and second angles 100, 102 are not equal. In the illustrated embodiment, the first angle 100 is approximately 10 degrees and the second angle 102 is approximately 10 degrees. However, in other embodiments, the first and second angles 100, 102 may be 5 degrees, 10 degrees, 20 degrees, 30 degrees, 40 degrees, 50 degrees, 70 degrees, 80 degrees, or any other angle suitable for the operating conditions. Moreover, in certain embodiments, the first and second angles 100, 102 may be between 5 degrees and 30 degrees, between 30 degrees and 50 degrees, between 50 degrees and 70 degrees, between 70 degrees and 90 degrees, or any other suitable range based on the operating conditions.
[0044] Moreover, the first and second baffles 86, 88 are configured to extend a distance along a length 104 of the plenum 36 to direct the air flow toward the outlet ports 56. For example, the first baffle 86 has a first length 106 and the second baffle has a second length 108. In the illustrated embodiment, the first length 106 is equal to the second length 108. However, in other embodiments, the first length 106 may not be equal to the second length 108. For example, the first length 106 may be longer than the second length 108 to further direct the air flow down the second passage 96.
In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second lengths 106, 108 are approximately 40 percent of the length 104 of the plenum 36. However, in other embodiments, the first and second lengths 106, 108 may be 10 percent, 20 percent, 30 percent, percent, 60 percent, 70 percent, 80 percent, 90 percent, or any suitable percentage of the length 104 of the plenum 36. Additionally, the first and second lengths 106, 108 may be between 10 and 40 percent, 40 to 60 percent, 60 to 80 percent, or any suitable percentage of the length 104 of the plenum 36. As will be appreciated, the first and second lengths 106, 108 may be varied to obtain desirable flow characteristics within the plenum 36.
[0045] Furthermore, the baffle assembly 84 is positioned proximate to the first end 54 of the plenum 36, in the illustrated embodiment. The first and second baffles 86, 88 are positioned at an offset distance 110 from the inlet 55. In the illustrated embodiment, the offset distance 110 is approximately 15 percent of the length 104 of the plenum 36. However, in other embodiments, the offset distance 110 may be 5 percent, 10 percent, 20 percent, 30 percent, 40 percent, 50 percent, or any other suitable percentage of the length 104 to direct the air flow toward the outlet ports 56.
Additionally, the offset distance 110 may be between 5 percent and 20 percent, percent and 30 percent, 40 percent and 50 percent, or any other suitable range of percentages of the length 104 of the plenum 36. In certain embodiments, the first baffle 86 and the second baffle 88 are an equal offset distance 110 from the inlet 55.
However, in other embodiments, the first baffle 86 may be closer to the inlet 55 or the second baffle 88 may be closer to the inlet 55. As will be appreciated, the position of the baffle assembly 84 relative to the inlet 55 may be modified to obtain desirable flow characteristics in the plenum 36. Moreover, while the illustrated embodiment includes a fixed baffle assembly 84, in certain embodiments the baffle assembly 84 and/or the individual baffles of the baffle assembly 84 (e.g., the first baffle 86, the second baffle 88) may be adjustable. For instance, the first and second baffles 86, 88 may be disposed on a tract that is configured to enable the first and second baffles 86, 88 to adjust the offset distance 110. Furthermore, the first and second angles 100, 102 may be adjustable. Additionally, in certain embodiments, the baffle assembly 84 may be automatically adjustable (e.g., via actuators) to provide air flow customization.
[0046] Accordingly, the air flow may be regulated through the plenum 36 to distribute air to different outlet ports 56 at different velocities and/or flow rates. For example, the pressurization port 80 is configured to couple to the pressurization hose 42 to pressurize the tank 26. In certain embodiments, the desired pressure to the tank 26 may be less than the desired pressure of the hoses 34 configured to direct the flow of air to the agricultural implement 10. Moreover, in certain embodiments, the flow rate to the tank 26 may also be lower than the flow rate to the hoses 34. By utilizing a desirable configuration of the baffle assembly 84, the flow rates to different parts of the plenum 36 may be regulated to satisfy a variety of desired flow conditions.
[0047] FIGS. 7-9 are perspective views of a routing configuration 112 of the hoses 34 extending from the plenum 36. It should be noted that the hoses 34 illustrated in FIGS. 7-9 are configured to extend to the distribution system 33 to receive the seeds before further extending to the agricultural implement 10. As a result, the hoses 34 illustrated in FIGS. 7-9 are described in relation to their lengths relative to the total length of the hoses 34 extending to the agricultural implement 10 and not to the length of the hoses 34 extending to the distribution system 33. FIG. 7 illustrates an embodiment of a six hose system configured to direct air to the agricultural implement 10. In the illustrated embodiment, only six of the outlet ports 56 are configured to direct air to the hoses 34 (e.g., outlet ports 56a, 56b, 56e, 56f, 56g, 56h).
The other outlet ports 56 (e.g., outlet ports 56c, 56d) may be capped to block air flow out of the plenum. In the illustrated embodiment, the hose 34b is coupled to the outlet port 56b. In certain embodiments, the outlet port 56b is configured to have a higher velocity than the outlet port 56a. As a result, the hose 34b having a longer length to the agricultural implement 10 is configured to couple to the outlet port 56b.
Moreover, because the velocity, in the illustrated embodiment, is higher in the outlet port 56b than the outlet port 56a, the hose 34a is shorter than the hose 36b.
Similarly, the corresponding hoses 34c, 34d, 34e, 34f, 34g, 34h may couple to corresponding outlet ports 56c, 56d, 56e, 56f, 56g, 56h based on the length of the hoses 34.
However, it should be noted that other six hose routing configurations may be utilized. For example, the outlet ports 56e, 56f may be plugged. Additionally, longer hoses 34 having a higher static pressure may couple to outlet ports 56 having higher air velocity to account for line losses and/or reduce the likelihood of seed plugging in the hoses. 34. In this manner, the air flow at the agricultural implement 10 through the hoses 34 may be substantially equal because the longer hoses 34 may have a higher pressure air flow directed from the associated outlet ports 56 at the plenum 36.
100481 FIG. 8 is an embodiment of a seven hose system configured to direct air to the agricultural implement 10. As mentioned above, in certain configurations the hoses 34 having longer lengths may be coupled to the outlet ports 56 having higher air velocities. Accordingly, the baffle assembly 84 may be configured to direct an air flow having a higher air velocity to the outlet port 56b associated with the hose 34b.
Furthermore, in other embodiments, different outlet ports 56 may be plugged to enable the seven hose configuration. For example, the outlet port 56f may be plugged to enable the desired flow characteristics. FIG. 9 is an embodiment of an eight hose system configured to direct air to the agricultural implement 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the hose 34b is longer than the hose 34a. As a result, the air in hose 34b may experience greater line losses, resulting in a lower outlet pressure.
Accordingly, the baffle assembly 84 may be configured to direct air at a higher velocity to the outlet port 56b associated with the hose 34b such that the hoses 34a, 34b will have approximately the same pressure at the agricultural implement 10.
[0049] As described in detail above, the plenum 36 is configured to direct the air flow received from the air source 32 toward the agricultural implement 10 and the tank 26.
For example, the plenum 36 may include the baffle assembly 84 to direct air in the plenum 36 to the outlet ports 56. The baffle assembly 84 may be configured to regulate the velocity of the air flow to certain outlet ports 56 as a function of the hoses 34 coupled to the outlet ports 56. As a result, the hoses 34 coupled to the outlet ports 56 may receive the air flow at different air velocities to account for the static pressure in the hoses 34. In embodiments where certain hoses 34 are longer than other hoses 34, the outlet ports 56 coupled to the longer hoses 34 (e.g., hose 34b) may be configured to distribute air at a higher velocity than the outlet ports 56 coupled to the shorter hoses 34 (e.g., 34c). Moreover, the plenum 36 includes the pressurization port 80 configured to couple to the pressurization hose 42 to supply pressurized air to the tank 26. As mentioned above, the baffle assembly 84 may provide the air flow to the pressurization port 80 at a desired pressure/velocity/flow rate to facilitate seeding operations.
[0050] While only certain features of the invention have been illustrated and described herein, many modifications and changes will occur to those skilled in the art. It is, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes as fall within the true spirit of the invention.
Claims (47)
1. A system for pressurizing a tank of an agricultural air distribution system, comprising:
an air source configured to supply pressurized air; and a plenum having an inlet fluidly coupled to the air source and configured to receive a flow of the pressurized air, wherein the plenum comprises a face positioned opposite from the inlet relative to a direction of flow of the pressurized air through the plenum, the face comprising:
a pressurization port configured to direct the flow of pressurized air to the tank; and at least one outlet port configured to couple to at least one hose to supply the pressurized air to an agricultural implement.
an air source configured to supply pressurized air; and a plenum having an inlet fluidly coupled to the air source and configured to receive a flow of the pressurized air, wherein the plenum comprises a face positioned opposite from the inlet relative to a direction of flow of the pressurized air through the plenum, the face comprising:
a pressurization port configured to direct the flow of pressurized air to the tank; and at least one outlet port configured to couple to at least one hose to supply the pressurized air to an agricultural implement.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the pressurization port is laterally and vertically centered on the face.
3. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one outlet port comprises a plurality of outlet ports positioned symmetrically on opposite lateral sides of the pressurization port.
4. The system of claim 1, wherein the plenum comprises:
a first side, extending from the inlet to the face, coupled to a top surface and a bottom surface, the top surface being opposite the bottom surface, wherein the first side comprises a curved portion;
a second side, opposite the first side, extending from the inlet to the face and coupled to the top surface and the bottom surface, wherein the second side comprises a curved portion substantially symmetrical to the curved portion of the first side; and a flange disposed about the inlet.
Date Recue/Date Received 2022-02-11
a first side, extending from the inlet to the face, coupled to a top surface and a bottom surface, the top surface being opposite the bottom surface, wherein the first side comprises a curved portion;
a second side, opposite the first side, extending from the inlet to the face and coupled to the top surface and the bottom surface, wherein the second side comprises a curved portion substantially symmetrical to the curved portion of the first side; and a flange disposed about the inlet.
Date Recue/Date Received 2022-02-11
5. The system of claim 4, comprising a baffle assembly disposed within the plenum, wherein the baffle assembly is configured to extend from the top surface to the bottom surface.
6. The system of claim 5, wherein the baffle assembly is positioned symmetrically about a longitudinal centerline of the plenum.
7. The system of claim 5, wherein the baffle assembly is configured to change a property of the flow such that the pressurized air at the pressurization port is at a different velocity than the at least one outlet port.
8. The system of claim 1, wherein the plenum has a first width at the inlet and a second width at the face, wherein the first width is smaller than the second width.
9. A system for distributing air to an agricultural implement, comprising:
an air source configured to supply a flow of pressurized air;
a tank configured to store an agricultural product for distribution by the agricultural implement, wherein the tank comprises a meter configured to regulate the flow of agricultural product from the tank; and a plenum fluidly coupled to the air source and configured to direct the flow of pressurized air to a plurality of hoses and to the tank via a pressurization line, comprising:
a first side coupled to a top surface and a bottom surface, the top surface being opposite the bottom surface;
a second side, opposite the first side, coupled to the top surface and the bottom surface;
an inlet positioned at a first end and configured to receive the flow of pressurized air from the air source; and a face positioned at a second end, opposite the first end, wherein the face comprises a pressurization port configured to couple to the pressurization line and a plurality of outlet ports configured to couple to the plurality of hoses.
Date Recue/Date Received 2022-02-11
an air source configured to supply a flow of pressurized air;
a tank configured to store an agricultural product for distribution by the agricultural implement, wherein the tank comprises a meter configured to regulate the flow of agricultural product from the tank; and a plenum fluidly coupled to the air source and configured to direct the flow of pressurized air to a plurality of hoses and to the tank via a pressurization line, comprising:
a first side coupled to a top surface and a bottom surface, the top surface being opposite the bottom surface;
a second side, opposite the first side, coupled to the top surface and the bottom surface;
an inlet positioned at a first end and configured to receive the flow of pressurized air from the air source; and a face positioned at a second end, opposite the first end, wherein the face comprises a pressurization port configured to couple to the pressurization line and a plurality of outlet ports configured to couple to the plurality of hoses.
Date Recue/Date Received 2022-02-11
10. The system of claim 9, comprising a baffle assembly disposed within the plenum, wherein the baffle assembly is configured to regulate the flow of the pressurized air through the plenum.
11. The system of claim 10, wherein the baffle assembly is positioned proximate to the first end of the plenum.
12. The system of claim 9, wherein the pressurization port is laterally and vertically centered on the face and the plurality of outlet ports are positioned symmetrically on opposite lateral sides of the pressurization port.
13. The system of claim 9, wherein the first side and the second side each comprise a curved portion configured to direct the flow toward the face.
14. The system of claim 9, wherein a first width at the inlet is less than a second width at the face.
15. A plenum for distributing a flow of air from an air source, comprising:
an inlet positioned on a first end of the plenum and configured to receive the flow of air from the air source;
a first side coupled to a top surface and a bottom surface, wherein the top surface is opposite the bottom surface;
a second side, opposite the first side, coupled to the top surface and the bottom surface;
a face disposed on a second end of the plenum, opposite the first end, wherein the face comprises a pressurization port configured to couple to a pressurization line and at least one outlet port configured to direct the flow of air out of the plenum; and a baffle assembly disposed within the plenum, wherein the baffle assembly is configured to regulate the flow of air through the plenum.
an inlet positioned on a first end of the plenum and configured to receive the flow of air from the air source;
a first side coupled to a top surface and a bottom surface, wherein the top surface is opposite the bottom surface;
a second side, opposite the first side, coupled to the top surface and the bottom surface;
a face disposed on a second end of the plenum, opposite the first end, wherein the face comprises a pressurization port configured to couple to a pressurization line and at least one outlet port configured to direct the flow of air out of the plenum; and a baffle assembly disposed within the plenum, wherein the baffle assembly is configured to regulate the flow of air through the plenum.
16. The plenum of claim 15, wherein the baffle assembly comprises:
Date Recue/Date Received 2022-02-11 a first baffle positioned at a first angle relative to a longitudinal axis of the plenum; and a second baffle positioned at a second angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the plenum, wherein the first baffle is opposite the second baffle.
Date Recue/Date Received 2022-02-11 a first baffle positioned at a first angle relative to a longitudinal axis of the plenum; and a second baffle positioned at a second angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the plenum, wherein the first baffle is opposite the second baffle.
17. The plenum of claim 16, wherein the first angle is equal to the second angle, and the first and second angles are between 10 degrees and 80 degrees.
18. The plenum of claim 16, wherein the first baffle and the second baffle are configured to establish a first passage between the first and second baffles, a second passage between the first baffle and the first side, and a third passage between the second baffle and the second side, wherein a flow characteristic is different in the first passage than in the second and third passages.
19. The plenum of claim 16, wherein the first and second baffles are positioned at an offset distance from a flange disposed about the inlet.
20. The plenum of claim 15, wherein the baffle assembly extends from the top surface to the bottom surface.
21. A system, comprising:
a plenum, comprising:
a body having an inlet configured to receive a flow of air from an air source and a face element;
a pressurization port extending from the face element and configured to direct the flow of air to a tank, wherein the pressurization port is laterally centered on the face element; and a plurality of outlet ports extending from the face element, wherein each outlet port of the plurality of outlet ports is configured to direct the flow of air to an agricultural implement.
a plenum, comprising:
a body having an inlet configured to receive a flow of air from an air source and a face element;
a pressurization port extending from the face element and configured to direct the flow of air to a tank, wherein the pressurization port is laterally centered on the face element; and a plurality of outlet ports extending from the face element, wherein each outlet port of the plurality of outlet ports is configured to direct the flow of air to an agricultural implement.
22. The system of claim 21, wherein the body comprises:
Date Recue/Date Received 2022-02-11 a first side, extending from the inlet to the face element, coupled to a top element and a bottom element, the top element being opposite the bottom element, wherein the first side comprises a curved portion; and a second side, opposite the first side, extending from the inlet to the face element and coupled to the top element and the bottom element, wherein the second side comprises a curved portion substantially symmetrical to the curved portion of the first side.
Date Recue/Date Received 2022-02-11 a first side, extending from the inlet to the face element, coupled to a top element and a bottom element, the top element being opposite the bottom element, wherein the first side comprises a curved portion; and a second side, opposite the first side, extending from the inlet to the face element and coupled to the top element and the bottom element, wherein the second side comprises a curved portion substantially symmetrical to the curved portion of the first side.
23. The system of claim 22, wherein the plenum comprises a baffle assembly disposed within the body, wherein the baffle assembly is configured to extend from the top element to the bottom element.
24. The system of claim 23, wherein the baffle assembly is positioned symmetrically about a longitudinal centerline of the plenum.
25. The system of claim 21, wherein the plenum comprises:
a flange at the inlet;
wherein the body, the flange, the pressurization port, and the plurality of outlet ports are formed from a single piece of material.
a flange at the inlet;
wherein the body, the flange, the pressurization port, and the plurality of outlet ports are formed from a single piece of material.
26. The system of claim 25, wherein the flange includes a projection extending about a periphery of the flange and configured to stiffen the flange.
27. The system of claim 25, wherein the plenum comprises at least one baffle disposed within the body, wherein the at least one baffle, the body, the flange, the pressurization port, and plurality of outlet ports are formed from the single piece of material.
28. The system of claim 21, wherein the plurality of outlet ports are positioned symmetrically on opposite lateral sides of the pressurization port.
Date Recue/Date Received 2022-02-11
Date Recue/Date Received 2022-02-11
29. The system of claim 21, wherein the inlet is positioned at a first end of the body, and the face element is positioned at a second end of the body, opposite the first end.
30. The system of claim 21, wherein the plenum has a first width at the inlet and a second width at the face element, and the first width is smaller than the second width.
31. The system of claim 21, wherein the plenum has a first height at the inlet and a second height at the face element, and the first height is smaller than the second height.
32. The system of claim 21, wherein the plenum comprises at least one rib integrally formed on a wall of the body.
33. The system of claim 21, comprising a barb on the pressurization port or on at least one outlet port of the plurality of outlet ports, wherein the barb is configured to facilitate retention of a pressurization hose on the pressurization port or a distribution hose on the at least one outlet port.
34. The system of claim 21, wherein the plenum comprises a rounded transition between the face element and at least one outlet port of the plurality of outlet ports or the pressurization port.
35. A system, comprising:
an air source configured to supply a flow of air;
a tank configured to store an agricultural product for distribution by an agricultural implement;
a metering system configured to regulate a flow of the agricultural product from the tank to the agricultural implement via a plurality of distribution hoses;
and a plenum fluidly coupled to the air source, comprising:
Date Recue/Date Received 2022-02-11 a body having an inlet configured to receive the flow of air from the air source and a face element;
a pressurization port extending from the face element; and a plurality of outlet ports extending from the face element, wherein each outlet port of the plurality of outlet ports is configured to direct the flow of air to the agricultural implement via a respective distribution hose of the plurality of distribution hoses; and a pressurization line extending from the pressurization port to the tank, wherein the pressurization line is configured to direct the entire flow of air from the pressurization port to the tank.
an air source configured to supply a flow of air;
a tank configured to store an agricultural product for distribution by an agricultural implement;
a metering system configured to regulate a flow of the agricultural product from the tank to the agricultural implement via a plurality of distribution hoses;
and a plenum fluidly coupled to the air source, comprising:
Date Recue/Date Received 2022-02-11 a body having an inlet configured to receive the flow of air from the air source and a face element;
a pressurization port extending from the face element; and a plurality of outlet ports extending from the face element, wherein each outlet port of the plurality of outlet ports is configured to direct the flow of air to the agricultural implement via a respective distribution hose of the plurality of distribution hoses; and a pressurization line extending from the pressurization port to the tank, wherein the pressurization line is configured to direct the entire flow of air from the pressurization port to the tank.
36. The system of claim 35, comprising a baffle assembly disposed within the body, wherein the baffle assembly is configured to regulate the flow of air through the plenum.
37. The system of claim 36, wherein the baffle assembly comprises at least one baffle, and wherein an orientation of the at least one baffle, a position of the at least one baffle, or a combination thereof, is adjustable.
38. The system of claim 35, wherein the pressurization port is laterally centered on the face element.
39. The system of claim 35, wherein the plurality of outlet ports and the pressurization port are arranged on the face element in three rows.
40. The system of claim 35, wherein a first width of the plenum at the inlet is less than a second width of the plenum at the face element.
41. A plenum configured to distribute a flow of air from an air source, comprising:
Date Recue/Date Received 2022-02-11 a body having an inlet and a face element, wherein the inlet is configured to receive the flow of air from the air source, and the face element has a substantially rectangular shape;
a plurality of outlet ports extending from the face element, wherein each outlet port of the plurality of outlet ports is configured to direct the flow of air to an agricultural implement; and a pressurization port extending from the face element and configured to direct the flow of air to a tank, wherein the pressurization port is laterally centered on the face element;
wherein the plurality of outlet ports and the pressurization port are arranged on the face element in three rows.
Date Recue/Date Received 2022-02-11 a body having an inlet and a face element, wherein the inlet is configured to receive the flow of air from the air source, and the face element has a substantially rectangular shape;
a plurality of outlet ports extending from the face element, wherein each outlet port of the plurality of outlet ports is configured to direct the flow of air to an agricultural implement; and a pressurization port extending from the face element and configured to direct the flow of air to a tank, wherein the pressurization port is laterally centered on the face element;
wherein the plurality of outlet ports and the pressurization port are arranged on the face element in three rows.
42. The plenum of claim 41, wherein the inlet is positioned at a first end of the body, and the face element is positioned at a second end of the body, opposite the first end.
43. The plenum of claim 41, comprising a baffle assembly disposed within the body and configured to regulate the flow of air through the plenum.
44. The plenum of claim 41, wherein the pressurization port is positioned in a middle row of the three rows.
45. A method of manufacturing a plenum for distributing a flow of air from an air source, comprising:
flowing a material into a mold cavity to form a body and a baffle assembly of the plenum such that the body and the baffle assembly are integrally formed from the material, the baffle assembly comprises a first baffle positioned at a first angle relative to a longitudinal axis of the plenum; and Date Recue/Date Received 2022-02-11 a second baffle positioned at a second angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the plenum, wherein the first baffle is opposite the second baffle, and wherein the first baffle and the second baffle extend from a top element to a bottom element;
wherein the body comprises:
an inlet positioned at a first end of the body and configured receive the flow of air from the air source;
the top element and the bottom element, wherein the top element is opposite the bottom element;
a first side coupled to the top element and the bottom element, a second side, opposite the first side, coupled to the top element and the bottom element; and a face element disposed on a second end of the body, opposite the first end, wherein the face element is configured to support a pressurization port configured to couple to a pressurization line and at least one outlet port configured to direct the flow of air out of the plenum; and wherein the baffle assembly is disposed within the body and configured to control the flow of air through the plenum.
flowing a material into a mold cavity to form a body and a baffle assembly of the plenum such that the body and the baffle assembly are integrally formed from the material, the baffle assembly comprises a first baffle positioned at a first angle relative to a longitudinal axis of the plenum; and Date Recue/Date Received 2022-02-11 a second baffle positioned at a second angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the plenum, wherein the first baffle is opposite the second baffle, and wherein the first baffle and the second baffle extend from a top element to a bottom element;
wherein the body comprises:
an inlet positioned at a first end of the body and configured receive the flow of air from the air source;
the top element and the bottom element, wherein the top element is opposite the bottom element;
a first side coupled to the top element and the bottom element, a second side, opposite the first side, coupled to the top element and the bottom element; and a face element disposed on a second end of the body, opposite the first end, wherein the face element is configured to support a pressurization port configured to couple to a pressurization line and at least one outlet port configured to direct the flow of air out of the plenum; and wherein the baffle assembly is disposed within the body and configured to control the flow of air through the plenum.
46. The method of claim 45, wherein the first baffle and the second baffle are configured to establish a first passage between the first and second baffles, a second passage between the first baffle and the first side, and a third passage between the second baffle and the second side, wherein a flow characteristic is different in the first passage than in the second and third passages.
47. The method of claim 45, wherein flowing the material into the mold cavity forms the at least one outlet port such that the body, the baffle assembly, and the at least one outlet port are integrally formed from the material.
Date Recue/Date Received 2022-02-11
Date Recue/Date Received 2022-02-11
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US201462075114P | 2014-11-04 | 2014-11-04 | |
| US62/075,114 | 2014-11-04 |
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| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2905305A1 CA2905305A1 (en) | 2016-05-04 |
| CA2905305C true CA2905305C (en) | 2023-01-24 |
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Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2905305A Active CA2905305C (en) | 2014-11-04 | 2015-09-21 | Air distribution system for a pneumatic conveying system |
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| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2905305C (en) |
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|---|---|
| CA2905305A1 (en) | 2016-05-04 |
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