U.S. patent application number 16/265763 was filed with the patent office on 2020-08-06 for modular meter roller shaft system.
The applicant listed for this patent is CNH Industrial Canada, Ltd.. Invention is credited to Guillaume Cloutier Boily, Dennis W. Chahley, Trevor Lawrence Kowalchuk.
Application Number | 20200245545 16/265763 |
Document ID | 20200245545 / US20200245545 |
Family ID | 1000003883240 |
Filed Date | 2020-08-06 |
Patent Application | download [pdf] |
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United States Patent
Application |
20200245545 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Boily; Guillaume Cloutier ;
et al. |
August 6, 2020 |
MODULAR METER ROLLER SHAFT SYSTEM
Abstract
A modular meter roller for an agricultural metering system. The
modular meter roller system includes a modular shaft that rotates.
The modular shaft includes a first shaft section. The first shaft
section includes a first shaft portion. The first shaft portion
supports a first roller segment. A second shaft portion couples to
the first shaft portion. A second shaft section supports a second
roller segment. The second shaft section defines an aperture. The
second shaft section couples to the second shaft portion by sliding
over the second shaft portion. An end cap couples to the second
shaft section. The end cap couples a first end plate to the modular
shaft.
Inventors: |
Boily; Guillaume Cloutier;
(Martensville, CA) ; Chahley; Dennis W.;
(Saskatoon, CA) ; Kowalchuk; Trevor Lawrence;
(Saskatoon, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
CNH Industrial Canada, Ltd. |
Saskatoon |
|
CA |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000003883240 |
Appl. No.: |
16/265763 |
Filed: |
February 1, 2019 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A01C 23/008 20130101;
A01C 23/007 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A01C 23/00 20060101
A01C023/00 |
Claims
1. A modular meter roller for an agricultural metering system,
comprising: a modular shaft configured to be driven in rotation,
the modular shaft comprising: a first shaft section comprising: a
first shaft portion, wherein the first shaft portion is configured
to support a first roller segment; a first end plate coupled to the
first shaft portion, wherein the first end plate is configured to
block removal of the first roller segment; and a second shaft
portion coupled to the first shaft portion; a second shaft section
configured to support a second roller segment, the second shaft
section defining an aperture, wherein the second shaft section is
configured to couple to the second shaft portion by sliding over
the second shaft portion; and an end cap configured to couple to
the second shaft section, wherein the end cap is configured to
couple a second end plate to the modular shaft.
2. (canceled)
3. The modular meter roller of claim 1, wherein the first shaft
portion, the second shaft portion, and the first end plate are
one-piece.
4. The modular meter roller of claim 1, comprising a coupling
configured to extend through the second shaft section to couple the
first shaft section, the second shaft section, and the end cap
together.
5. The modular meter roller of claim 4, wherein the coupling
comprises a heat stake, a self-tapping shaft, or a threaded
fastener.
6. The modular meter roller of claim 1, comprising a third shaft
section.
7. The modular meter roller of claim 4, comprising a shaft
connector configured to couple the second shaft section to a third
shaft section.
8. The modular meter roller of claim 1, wherein the end cap
comprises a first plurality of protrusions and the second shaft
section comprises a second plurality of protrusions, and wherein
the first plurality of protrusions and the second plurality of
protrusions are configured to interlock to couple the end cap to
the second shaft section.
9. A modular meter roller for an agricultural metering system,
comprising: a modular shaft configured to be driven in rotation,
the modular shaft comprising: a first shaft section comprising: a
first shaft portion, wherein the first shaft portion is configured
to support a first roller segment; a first end plate coupled to the
first shaft portion, wherein the first end plate is configured to
block removal of the first roller segment; a second shaft portion
coupled to the first shaft portion; and a connector; a second shaft
section configured to support a second roller segment, the second
shaft section defining an aperture, wherein the second shaft
section is configured to couple to the first shaft section by
sliding over the connector; and an end cap configured to couple to
the second shaft section, wherein the end cap is configured to
couple a second end plate to the modular shaft.
10. (canceled)
11. The modular meter roller of claim 9, wherein the first shaft
portion, the second shaft portion, the connector, and the second
end plate are one-piece.
12. The modular meter roller of claim 9, wherein the connector
comprises a plurality of arms configured to couple to the second
shaft section.
13. The modular meter roller of claim 12, wherein the second shaft
section comprises a plurality of radial apertures, wherein each
radial aperture of the plurality of radial apertures is configured
to receive a respective arm of the plurality of arms.
14. The modular meter roller of claim 9, wherein the end cap
comprises a first plurality of protrusions and the second shaft
section comprises a second plurality of protrusions, and wherein
the first plurality of protrusions and the second plurality of
protrusions are configured to interlock to couple the end cap to
the second shaft section.
15. The modular meter roller of claim 9, wherein the end cap
comprises a plurality of arms configured to couple to the second
shaft section, and wherein the second shaft section comprises a
plurality of radial apertures, wherein each radial aperture of the
plurality of radial apertures is configured to receive a respective
arm of the plurality of arms.
16. A modular meter roller for an agricultural metering system,
comprising: a modular shaft configured to be driven in rotation,
the modular shaft comprising: a first shaft portion, wherein the
first shaft portion is configured to support a first roller
segment; a second shaft portion coupled to the first shaft portion,
wherein the second shaft portion is configured to support a second
roller segment; and an end cap configured to couple to the second
shaft portion, wherein the end cap is configured to couple a first
end plate to the modular shaft.
17. The modular meter roller of claim 16, comprising a second end
plate coupled to the first shaft portion, and wherein the second
end plate is configured to block removal of the first roller
segment.
18. The modular meter roller of claim 17, wherein the first shaft
portion, the second shaft portion, and the second end plate are
one-piece.
19. The modular meter roller of claim 16, wherein the end cap
comprises a first plurality of protrusions and the second shaft
portion comprises a second plurality of protrusions, and wherein
the first plurality of protrusions and the second plurality of
protrusions are configured to interlock to couple the end cap to
the second shaft portion.
20. The modular meter roller of claim 16, wherein the end cap
comprises a plurality of arms configured to couple to the second
shaft portion, and wherein the second shaft portion comprises a
plurality of radial apertures, wherein each radial aperture of the
plurality of radial apertures is configured to receive a respective
arm of the plurality of arms.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] The disclosure relates generally to a meter roller for an
agricultural metering system.
[0002] Generally, seeding implements (e.g., seeders) are towed
behind a tractor or other work vehicle via a mounting bracket
secured to a rigid frame of the implement. Seeding implements
typically include multiple row units distributed across a width of
the implement. Each row unit is configured to deposit seeds at a
target depth beneath the soil surface of a field, thereby
establishing rows of planted seeds. For example, each row unit
typically includes a ground engaging tool or opener that forms a
seeding path (e.g., trench) for seed deposition into the soil. A
seed tube (e.g., coupled to the opener) is configured to deposit
seeds and/or other agricultural products (e.g., fertilizer) into
the trench. The opener/seed tube may be followed by closing discs
that move displaced soil back into the trench and/or a packer wheel
that packs the soil on top of the deposited seeds.
[0003] In certain configurations, an air cart is used to meter and
deliver agricultural product (e.g., seeds, fertilizer, etc.) to the
row units of the seeding implement. The air cart generally includes
a storage tank (e.g., a pressurized tank), an air source (e.g., a
blower), and a metering system. The product is typically gravity
fed from the storage tank to the metering system which distributes
a desired volume of product into an air flow generated by the air
source. The air flow carries the product to the row units via
conduits extending between the air cart and the seeding implement.
The metering system typically includes meter rollers that regulate
the flow of product based on meter roller geometry and rotation
rate.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION
[0004] In one embodiment, a modular meter roller for an
agricultural metering system. The modular meter roller system
includes a modular shaft that rotates. The modular shaft includes a
first shaft section. The first shaft section includes a first shaft
portion. The first shaft portion supports a first roller segment. A
second shaft portion couples to the first shaft portion. A second
shaft section supports a second roller segment. The second shaft
section defines an aperture. The second shaft section couples to
the second shaft portion by sliding over the second shaft portion.
An end cap couples to the second shaft section. The end cap couples
a first end plate to the modular shaft.
[0005] In another embodiment, a modular meter roller for an
agricultural metering system. The modular meter roller includes a
modular shaft that rotates. The modular shaft includes a first
shaft section. The first shaft section includes a first shaft
portion. The first shaft portion supports a first roller segment. A
second shaft portion couples to the first shaft portion. The
modular shaft includes a connector. A second shaft section supports
a second roller segment. The second shaft section defines an
aperture. The second shaft section couples to the first shaft
section by sliding over the connector. An end cap couples to the
second shaft section. The end cap couples a first end plate to the
modular shaft.
[0006] In another embodiment, a modular meter roller for an
agricultural metering system. The modular meter roller includes a
modular shaft that rotates. The modular shaft includes a first
shaft portion. The first shaft portion supports a first roller
segment. A second shaft portion couples to the first shaft portion.
The second shaft portion supports a second roller segment. An end
cap couples to the second shaft portion. The end cap couples a
first end plate to the modular shaft.
DRAWINGS
[0007] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the
present disclosure 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 air cart, including a metering
system configured to regulate a flow of particulate material,
according to an embodiment of the disclosure;
[0009] FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a metering system that may be
employed within the air cart of FIG. 1, according to an embodiment
of the disclosure;
[0010] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a metering system
that may be employed within the air cart of FIG. 1, according to an
embodiment of the disclosure;
[0011] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the metering system of FIG.
3, in which a cartridge is disposed within a meter box, according
to an embodiment of the disclosure;
[0012] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the metering system of
FIG. 3, according to an embodiment of the disclosure;
[0013] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the metering system of FIG.
3, in which the cartridge is removed from the meter box, according
to an embodiment of the disclosure;
[0014] FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the cartridge of
FIG. 4, in which a modular meter roller is removed from a housing
of the cartridge, according to an embodiment of the disclosure;
[0015] FIG. 8 is a top view of the cartridge of FIG. 4, according
to an embodiment of the disclosure;
[0016] FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of a modular meter
roller, according to an embodiment of the disclosure;
[0017] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the assembled modular meter
roller of FIG. 9, according to an embodiment of the disclosure;
[0018] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an assembled modular meter
roller, according to an embodiment of the disclosure;
[0019] FIG. 12 is a side view of a shaft of the modular meter
roller of FIG. 9, according to an embodiment of the disclosure;
[0020] FIG. 13 is an end view of the shaft of the modular meter
roller of FIG. 9, according to an embodiment of the disclosure;
[0021] FIG. 14 is an end view of a roller segment, according to an
embodiment of the disclosure;
[0022] FIG. 15 is an end view of two superimposed roller segments,
according to an embodiment of the disclosure;
[0023] FIG. 16 is an end view of a roller segment, according to an
embodiment of the disclosure;
[0024] FIG. 17 is an end view of a roller segment, according to an
embodiment of the disclosure;
[0025] FIG. 18 is an end view of a roller segment, according to an
embodiment of the disclosure;
[0026] FIG. 19 is a partial end view of a roller segment, according
to an embodiment of the disclosure;
[0027] FIG. 20 is an exploded perspective view of a modular meter
roller, according to an embodiment of the disclosure;
[0028] FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective view of a modular meter
roller, according to an embodiment of the disclosure;
[0029] FIG. 22 is an exploded perspective view of a modular meter
roller, according to an embodiment of the disclosure; and
[0030] FIG. 23 is an exploded perspective view of a modular meter
roller, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0031] Turning now to the drawings, FIG. 1 is a side view of an air
cart 10 that may be used in conjunction with a towable agricultural
implement to deposit seeds into soil. For example, certain
agricultural implements include row units configured to open the
soil, dispense seeds into the soil opening, and re-close the soil.
Such implements are generally coupled to a tow vehicle, such as a
tractor, and pulled through a field. In certain configurations,
seeds are conveyed to the row units by the illustrated air cart 10,
which is generally towed in sequence with the implement along a
direction of travel 11 (e.g., behind the implement or in front of
the implement). In certain configurations, the air cart 10 may be
configured to provide fertilizer to the row units, or a combination
of seeds and fertilizer.
[0032] In the illustrated embodiment, the air cart 10 includes a
storage tank 12, a frame 14, wheels 16, a metering system 18, and
an air source 20. In certain configurations, the storage tank 12
includes multiple compartments for storing various flowable
particulate materials. For example, one compartment may include
seeds, such as canola or mustard, and another compartment may
include a dry fertilizer. In such configurations, the air cart 10
is configured to deliver both the seeds and fertilizer to the
implement. The frame 14 includes a towing hitch configured to
couple to the implement or tow vehicle. As discussed in detail
below, seeds and/or fertilizer within the storage tank 12 are
gravity fed into the metering system 18. The metering system 18
includes one or more meter rollers that regulate the flow of
material from the storage tank 12 into an air flow provided by the
air source 20. The air flow then carries the material to the
implement by pneumatic conduits. In this manner, the row units
receive a supply of seeds and/or fertilizer for deposition within
the soil.
[0033] FIG. 2 is a schematic view of the metering system 18, as
shown in FIG. 1. As illustrated, the air source 20 is coupled to a
conduit 22 configured to flow air 24 past the metering system 18.
The air source 20 may be a pump or blower powered by an electric or
hydraulic motor, for example. Flowable particulate material 26
(e.g., seeds, fertilizer, etc.) within the storage tank 12 flows by
gravity into the metering system 18. In certain embodiments, the
storage tank 12 is pressurized such that a static pressure in the
tank 12 is greater than a static pressure in the conduit 22,
thereby facilitating an even flow of material through the metering
system 18. The metering system 18 includes one or more modular
meter rollers 28 configured to regulate the flow of material 26
into the air flow 24. In certain embodiments, the metering system
18 may include multiple modular meter rollers 28 (e.g., housed
within individual meter boxes) disposed adjacent to one another. In
addition, certain metering systems 18 may include twelve modular
meter rollers 28, each housed within an individual meter box and
each configured to flow particulate material into a respective
conduit 22 (e.g., of a material distribution system) for
distribution to one or more respective row units of the
agricultural implement. However, in alternative embodiments, the
metering system 18 may include more or fewer meter rollers, e.g.,
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 13, or more. By independently
adjusting the rotation speed of each meter roller, product flow to
different portions of the implement may be particularly
controlled.
[0034] In the illustrated embodiment, the modular meter roller 28
is coupled to a drive assembly 30 configured to drive the modular
meter roller 28 to rotate. In certain embodiments, the drive
assembly 30 includes at least one drive unit, such as an electric
or hydraulic motor, configured to drive one or more meter rollers
to rotate. For example, in certain embodiments, multiple drive
units may be coupled to respective meter rollers to facilitate
independent control of the rotation rates of the meter rollers. In
further embodiments, the drive assembly 30 may be coupled to a
wheel (e.g., via a gear assembly) such that rotation of the wheel
drives the modular meter roller 28 to rotate. Such a configuration
automatically varies the rotation rate of the modular meter roller
28 based on the speed of the air cart.
[0035] The modular meter roller 28 also includes protrusions, such
as the illustrated fins 32, and recesses 34. Each respective recess
34 is disposed between a respective pair of fins 32. As the modular
meter roller 28 rotates, the respective pair of fins 32 moves the
material 26 (e.g., agricultural product) disposed within the
respective recess 34 downwardly, thereby transferring the material
26 to the conduit 22. The number and geometry of the fins 32 are
particularly configured to accommodate the material 26 being
distributed. Certain modular meter rollers 28 may include six fins
32 and a corresponding number of recesses 34. Alternative meter
rollers may include more or fewer fins 32 and/or recesses 34. For
example, the modular meter roller 28 may include 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6,
7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, or more fins
32 and/or recesses 34. In addition, the depth of the recesses 34
and/or the height of the fins 32 are configured to accommodate the
material 26 within the storage tank 12. For example, a meter roller
having deeper recesses 34 and fewer fins 32 may be employed for
larger seeds, while a meter roller having shallower recesses 34 and
more fins 32 may be employed for smaller seeds. Other parameters
such as fin pitch (i.e., angle of the fin relative to a
longitudinal/rotational axis) and fin angle (i.e., angle of the fin
relative to a radial axis) may also be particularly selected to
accommodate the material 26. While the illustrated meter roller
includes fins, it should be appreciated that in alternative
embodiments, the meter roller may include other protrusions, and/or
the recesses may be omitted.
[0036] In the illustrated embodiment, the rotationally axis of the
modular meter roller 28 is oriented substantially parallel to the
direction of travel 11 of the air cart. As used herein,
substantially parallel may refer to an angle of about 0 to about 45
degrees, about 0 to about 30 degrees, about 0 to about 15 degrees,
about 0 to about 5 degrees, or about 0 to about 1 degree relative
to an axis/direction (e.g., the direction of travel 11). By way of
example, substantially parallel may refer to an angle less than 5
degrees, less than 4 degrees, less than 3 degrees, less than 2
degrees, less than 1 degree, or less than 0.5 degrees relative to
an axis/direction. In further embodiments, the meter roller may be
oriented substantially perpendicular to the direction of travel, or
at any other suitable angle.
[0037] For a particular meter roller configuration/profile, the
rotation rate of the modular meter roller 28 controls the flow of
material 26 into the air flow 24. For example, as the modular meter
roller 28 rotates, the meter roller transfers material through an
opening 36 in the metering system 18 into a respective conduit 22
(e.g., into a conduit associated with a respective row unit or
group of row units). The material then mixes with air from the air
source 20, thereby forming an air/material mixture 38. The mixture
then flows to the respective row unit(s) of the implement via
pneumatic conduit(s), where the seeds and/or fertilizer are
deposited within the soil.
[0038] Different flowable particulate materials may include
particles of different sizes. For example, seeds, such as
sunflower, may have a coarse particle size, fertilizer, such as
monoammonium phosphate (MAP), may have a medium particle size, and
inoculant, such as a granular microbial soil inoculant, may have a
fine particle size. Moreover, the target application rate may vary
based on the type of flowable particulate material being dispensed.
For example, the target flow rate of certain seeds or fertilizers
may be higher than the target flow rate of other seeds or
fertilizers. Accordingly, certain embodiments of the metering
system disclosed herein may facilitate removal and replacement of
meter rollers, thereby enabling an operator to select a meter
roller suitable for a particular flowable particulate material and
for a target dispensing rate (e.g., a target rate for particular
field conditions, climate, expected yield, etc.).
[0039] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of a
metering system 18 that may be employed within the air cart of FIG.
1. The metering system 18 includes a meter box 40 and a drive
assembly 30. The meter box 40 has a passage 42 configured to direct
the flowable particulate material to the conduit 22 for transfer to
a row unit or group of row units. As shown in FIG. 3, the meter box
40 has a first side 43 (e.g., drive side) for receiving a drive
unit 46 of the drive assembly 30. In the illustrated embodiment,
the drive unit 46 includes a drive shaft 44 and a motor (e.g.,
electric motor) 45 that drives the drive shaft to rotate in a
clockwise or counter-clockwise direction. The drive unit 46 and the
meter box 40 include apertures 50 configured to receive fasteners
(e.g., bolts) 52 to secure the drive unit 46 to the meter box 40.
The drive shaft 44 is inserted into an opening 54 in the meter box
such that the drive shaft 44 engages the meter roller within the
meter box 40. The drive shaft 44 is configured to drive the meter
roller to rotate. A bearing (e.g., ball bearing) 56 facilitates
rotation of the drive shaft 44 and meter roller within the meter
box 40. As the conduit 22 transfers air under the passage 42, the
motor (e.g., electric motor) of the drive unit 46 drives the drive
shaft 44 to rotate the meter roller. As the meter roller rotates,
the meter roller dispenses flowable particulate material via the
passage 42 to the air flow within the conduit 22 to form the
air/material mixture. Further, pressurized air from the tank may
flow through the passage 42 with the material from the meter
roller.
[0040] In the illustrated embodiment, the drive shaft 44 includes a
first engagement feature 58, such as protrusions, configured to
non-rotatably couple the drive shaft 44 to the meter roller. The
protrusions may engage corresponding recesses of the meter roller,
thereby non-rotatably coupling the drive shaft 44 to the meter
roller. While the drive unit 46 includes an electric motor in the
illustrated embodiment, it should be appreciated that in
alternative embodiments, the drive unit may include any other
suitable system configured to drive rotation of the meter roller,
such as a hydraulic motor, a pneumatic motor, or a gear assembly
coupled to a wheel of the air cart.
[0041] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the metering system 18 of
FIG. 3, in which a cartridge 60 is disposed within the meter box
40. As discussed in detail below, the cartridge 60 (e.g., modular
meter roller cartridge) is configured to facilitate removal and
installation of the meter roller via a meter box opening on a
second side 61 (e.g., cartridge side) of the meter box 40. As
illustrated, the meter box 40 houses the cartridge 60 while the
cartridge is disposed within the opening. While the cartridge 60 is
housed within the meter box 40 of the metering system 18 in the
illustrated embodiment, it should be appreciated that in
alternative embodiments, the meter box may house a meter roller
without a cartridge, or the meter box may house multiple cartridges
(e.g., 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or more).
[0042] In the illustrated embodiment, the metering system 18 is
configured to enable the cartridge 60 to engage the meter box 40
via the meter box opening in the second side 61 (e.g., cartridge
side) of the meter box 40. While the cartridge 60 is engaged with
the meter box 40, the shaft of the drive unit engages the meter
roller, thereby enabling the meter roller to be driven in rotation.
The cartridge 60 has a cross-sectional shape that substantially
corresponds to the cross-sectional shape of the meter box opening.
As illustrated, the meter box 40 includes two cartridge locking
tabs 62 configured to selectively block removal of the cartridge 60
from the meter box 40, thereby retaining the cartridge 60 within
the meter box 40. In the illustrated embodiment, each locking tab
62 is part of a rotatable latch configured to rotate between the
illustrated locked position that blocks removal of the cartridge 60
from the meter box 40 and an unlocked position that facilitates
removal of the cartridge 60 from the meter box 40. In certain
embodiments, each cartridge locking tab includes a recess that
engages a corresponding notch on the cartridge 60 to block
unintentional rotation of the rotatable latch while the rotatable
latch is in the locked position (e.g., due to vibrations of the air
cart). The cartridge 60 may be removed by rotating each rotatable
latch in a respective first direction and extracting the cartridge
60. Further, the cartridge 60 may be inserted by engaging the
cartridge with the meter box 40, and then rotating each latch in a
respective second direction, opposite the respective first
direction. While each cartridge locking tab 62 is part of a
rotatable latch in the illustrated embodiment, it should be
appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the cartridge locking
tab may be part of a spring latch, a bolt latch, or any suitable
type of locking mechanism. Furthermore, while the illustrated meter
box includes two locking tabs, it should be appreciated that in
alternative embodiments, the meter box may include more or fewer
locking tabs (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, etc.). In the illustrated
embodiment, the cartridge 60 includes a releasable bearing coupler
68. As discussed in detail below, the releasable bearing coupler 68
retains the meter roller within the cartridge, facilitates rotation
of the meter roller within the cartridge, and facilitates removal
of the meter roller from the cartridge.
[0043] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the metering system 18
of FIG. 3. As illustrated, the cartridge 60 is engaged
with/disposed within the meter box 40 of the metering system 18.
The cartridge 60 includes a housing 70 configured to rotatably
support the modular meter roller 28 within the meter box 40 (e.g.,
the housing 70 is secured to the meter box while the modular meter
roller 28 rotates). The housing 70 includes a first side 72 (e.g.,
cartridge drive side) and a second side 74 (e.g., cartridge bearing
side), which correspond to the first side 43 and second side 61 of
the meter box 40, respectively.
[0044] The cartridge 60 includes a bearing opening 76 for receiving
the releasable bearing coupler 68, and in certain embodiments, a
meter roller bearing 78, which may engage the modular meter roller
28. The modular meter roller 28 includes a driven shaft 80
configured to engage the drive shaft of the drive unit, thereby
non-rotatably coupling the drive shaft to the meter roller. The
driven shaft 80 includes a second engagement feature 84 (e.g.,
recesses) configured to selectively engage the first engagement
feature (e.g., protrusions) of the drive shaft. The driven shaft
may be an integral part of a meter roller spindle, and the fins and
recesses of the meter roller may be formed on one or more meter
roller inserts non-rotatably coupled to the spindle. While the
second engagement feature includes recesses in the illustrated
embodiment, it should be appreciated that in alternative
embodiments, the second engagement feature may include a cavity
having a polygonal cross-section and configured to engage the drive
shaft having a corresponding polygonal cross-section (e.g., first
engagement feature). Furthermore, while the illustrated second
engagement feature 84 facilities shape-based engagement with the
first engagement feature, it should be appreciated that in
alternative embodiments, any variety of suitable interlocking
mechanisms may be utilized for non-rotatably coupling the meter
roller to the drive shaft.
[0045] In the illustrated embodiment, a drive bearing 86 is used to
facilitate rotation of the drive shaft within the meter box. The
drive bearing 86, the driven shaft 80, the drive shaft, and the
meter roller bearing 78 associated with the releasable bearing
coupler 68 are in longitudinal alignment, thereby facilitating
rotation of the modular meter roller 28 in response to rotation of
the drive shaft. The meter roller bearing 78 may be coupled to the
releasable bearing coupler 68, the driven shaft 80, or it may be a
separate individual element. While the cartridge 60 is engaged
with/disposed within the meter box 40, the housing 70 rotatably
supports/houses the modular meter roller 28. To change a modular
meter roller 28, the operator may remove the cartridge 60, replace
the modular meter roller 28, and then reinstall the cartridge 60.
Alternatively, the operator may remove the cartridge 60 and replace
the cartridge with another cartridge that contains a different
meter roller or with a different cartridge type.
[0046] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the metering system of FIG.
3, in which the cartridge 60 is removed from the meter box 40. To
remove the cartridge 60, the operator may rotate the rotatable
latches to the unlocked position, in which the locking tabs 62 are
positioned to facilitate removal of the cartridge, and extract the
cartridge 60 from the meter box 40. As illustrated, the
cross-sectional shape of the cartridge 60 (e.g., the
cross-sectional shape of the first side 72, the cross-sectional
shape of the second side 74, etc.) substantially correspond to the
cross-sectional shape of the meter box opening 88.
[0047] As illustrated, the modular meter roller 28 includes fins 32
and recesses 34, which are configured to enable the modular meter
roller 28 to control the flow of the flowable particulate material
into the passage 42. The modular meter roller 28 is rotatably
supported on the second side 74 of the meter roller cartridge 60 by
the releasable bearing coupler 68. Once the cartridge 60 is removed
from the meter box 40, the releasable bearing coupler 68 may be
disengaged and removed from the meter roller/housing. Once the
rotatable bearing coupler 68 is removed, the modular meter roller
28 may be removed through an opening 90, thereby enabling insertion
of another meter roller (e.g., suitable for use with material
having a larger or small particle size, and/or for a higher or
lower target application rate).
[0048] FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the cartridge 60
of FIG. 4, in which the modular meter roller 28 is removed from the
housing 70 of the cartridge 60. The housing 70 of the cartridge 60
has a drive shaft opening 92 on the first side 72 of the housing 70
and the bearing opening 76 on the second side 74 of the housing 70.
The housing 70 also has the meter roller opening 90 and material
receiving openings 94. The material receiving openings 94 are
configured to receive the flowable particulate material into the
housing 70, thereby enabling the modular meter roller 28 to receive
the material.
[0049] To couple the modular meter roller 28 to the housing 70, the
modular meter roller 28 is disposed within the housing 70 through
the meter roller opening 90. While the modular meter roller 28 is
disposed within the housing 70, the drive shaft opening 92 on the
first side 72 of the housing 70 aligns with the drive shaft opening
(e.g., a recess or interior cavity) of the driven shaft. In
addition, the bearing opening 76 on the second side 74 of the
housing 70 aligns with a bearing opening 96 (e.g., a recess or
interior cavity) of the modular meter roller 28. The bearing
opening 96 may be configured to receive the bearing 78 or the
bearing may be fixedly mounted within the opening 96. The openings
of the modular meter roller 28 and cartridge 60 are longitudinally
aligned with one another and with the drive shaft.
[0050] The meter roller cartridge 60 and/or the releasable bearing
coupler 68 may include gaskets 100. While two gaskets 100 (e.g.,
O-rings) are included in the illustrated embodiment, it should be
appreciated that in alternative embodiments, any suitable number of
gaskets (e.g., O-rings) may be used to seal adjacent parts. Once
the modular meter roller 28 is disposed within the housing 70, the
bearing opening 96 may receive the releasable bearing coupler 68,
and in certain embodiments the meter roller bearing 78, via the
bearing opening 76 in the housing 70. The meter roller bearing 78
may be fixedly coupled to the modular meter roller 28 or fixedly
coupled to the releasable bearing coupler 68 in certain
embodiments. In further embodiments, the meter roller bearing 78
may be an independent element. The releasable bearing coupler 68
may include the bearing 78, or the releasable bearing coupler 68
may be configured to engage the bearing 78 with a shaft of the
releasable bearing coupler 68. Accordingly, the bearing 78 may be
configured to engage the opening 96 of the modular meter roller 28
to facilitate rotation of the modular meter roller 28 relative to
the housing 70 (e.g., rotation about the shaft of the releasable
bearing coupler). The bearing coupler 68 is configured to engage
the bearing opening 76 and to couple to the housing 70 via
corresponding locking elements of the bearing coupler 68 and the
housing 70. For example, the locking elements may interlock with
one another via rotation of the bearing coupler 68 relative to the
housing, thereby coupling the bearing coupler 68 to the housing 70.
While the bearing coupler 68 is coupled to the housing 70, the
shaft of the bearing coupler 68 rotatably supports the modular
meter roller 28 and secures the meter roller to the housing 70.
[0051] FIG. 8 is a top view of the cartridge 60 of FIG. 4. In the
illustrated embodiment, the modular meter roller 28 within the
cartridge 60 is configured to meter flowable particulate material
having fine particles at a low rate. Accordingly, the aggregate
volume of the recesses may be less than a meter roller configured
to meter larger particles at a faster rate. In the illustrated
embodiment, the circumferential extent of each fin 32 (e.g., extent
of each fin 32 along a circumferential axis 102) is at least 1.5
times greater than the circumferential extent of each recess 34
(e.g., extent of each recess 34 along the circumferential axis 102)
along an entire longitudinal extent 104 or 105 of the fin 32 and
the recess 34 (e.g., the entire extent 104 of the fin 32 and the
recess 34 of a first rank 132 along a longitudinal axis 106, and an
entire extent 105 of the fins 32 and the recesses 34 of a second
rank 134 along the longitudinal axis 106). Furthermore, the entire
longitudinal extent 104 or 105 of each fin 32 and each recess 34 is
greater than the circumferential extent of the fin and the
circumferential extent of the recess.
[0052] In the illustrated embodiment, the longitudinal extent 104
of the fins 32 and recesses 34 of the first rank 132 is
substantially equal to a width 108 of a respective material
receiving opening 94 (e.g., extent of the material receiving
opening 94 along the longitudinal axis 106). In addition, the
longitudinal extent 105 of the fins 32 and recesses 34 of the
second rank 134 is substantially equal to a width 109 of a
respective material receiving opening 94 (e.g., extent of the
material receiving opening 94 along the longitudinal axis 106). For
example, the fin/recess longitudinal extent 104, 105 and the
opening width 108, 109 may be between about 20 and about 75 mm,
about 30 and about 50 mm, about 47.5 mm, or about 32.5 mm. As
previously discussed, the flowable particulate material flows
through the material receiving openings 94 to the modular meter
roller 28. The width 108, 109 of the material receiving openings
substantially reduces or eliminates the possibility of the openings
becoming blocked due to clumping of the flowable agricultural
product (e.g., as compared to a narrower opening, such as the
auxiliary opening 110, which is currently blocked). However, the
wider openings enable more flowable particulate material to flow to
the meter roller. Accordingly, the illustrated modular meter roller
28 includes recesses 34 that have a small aggregate volume to
establish a low flow rate for a particular meter roller rotation
speed. For example, as previously discussed, the recesses are
circumferentially spaced apart from one another by more than 1.5
times the circumferential extent of the recesses. In addition, the
depth of each recess (e.g., extent of the recess along a radial
axis 112) is shallow to reduce the aggregate volume of the
recesses. As a result of the meter roller configuration, the meter
roller may provide flowable particulate material to the
distribution system at a low flow rate while substantially reducing
or eliminating the possibility of blocking the material receiving
openings with clumped material.
[0053] Meter rollers may be characterized by a ratio of aggregate
recess volume to width of the material receiving opening. In the
illustrated embodiment, each recess 34 of the first rank 132 has a
volume of about 183 mm.sup.3, and each rank (e.g., the first rank
132 and the second rank 134) has nine recesses. Accordingly, the
aggregate recess volume for the first rank 132 is about 1643
mm.sup.3. As previously discussed, the width 108 of the respective
material receiving opening 94 (e.g., the opening 94 configured to
provide flowable particulate material to the first rank 132) is
about 47.5 mm. Accordingly, the ratio of aggregate recess volume to
opening width for the first rank 132 is about 34. However, it
should be appreciated that in certain embodiments, the ratio may be
higher or lower (e.g., depending on the number of recesses and the
volume of each recess). For example, to establish a low flow rate
of fine particulate material while substantially reducing or
eliminating the possibility of blocking the material receiving
openings, the ratio may be less than about 50, less than about 45,
less than about 40, less than about 35, or less than about 30.
Utilizing such a meter roller profile may enable the motor of the
drive unit to rotate the meter roller at a speed sufficient to
facilitate precise control of the meter roller rotation rate (e.g.,
as compared to rotating a meter roller having a larger aggregate
recess volume slower than a minimum controllable speed of the
motor).
[0054] In the illustrated embodiment, the longitudinal axis 114 of
each fin 32 is substantially parallel to the rotational axis 116 of
the modular meter roller 28. In addition, the longitudinal axis 118
of each recess 34 is substantially parallel to the rotational axis
116 of the modular meter roller 28. However, as discussed in detail
below, in alternative embodiments, the longitudinal axis of each
fin and the longitudinal axis of each recess may be oriented at an
angle (e.g., of at least 2 degrees) relative to the rotational axis
of the meter roller. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the fins
and recesses may follow a curved path from one longitudinal side of
a rank to the other longitudinal side of the rank.
[0055] In the illustrated embodiment, the modular meter roller 28
is formed from a spindle 120 and profile inserts 122. As discussed
in detail below, the profile inserts, which form the fins and
recesses of the meter roller, are arranged in ranks, and the
profile inserts of each rank are coupled to one another and
non-rotatably coupled to the spindle. Accordingly, as the drive
shaft drives the spindle 120, which includes the driven shaft, to
rotate, the profile inserts 122 are driven to rotate, thereby
inducing the fins and the recesses to meter the flowable
particulate material to the distribution system. In the illustrated
embodiment, the spindle 120 includes a first ring 124, a second
ring 126, a third ring 128, and a fourth ring 130. Each ring is
rigidly and non-rotatably coupled to (e.g., integrally formed with)
the driven shaft. A first rank 132 of profile inserts 122 is
longitudinally disposed between the first ring 124 and the second
ring 126, and a second rank 134 of profile inserts 122 is
longitudinal disposed between the second ring 126 and the third
ring 128. In addition, a sealing ring 136 is longitudinally
disposed between the third ring 128 and the fourth ring 130. As
discussed in detail below, the sealing ring 136 is configured to
block the flowable particulate material from entering an interior
of the spindle 120.
[0056] FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of a modular meter
roller 28. The modular meter roller 28 enables a user to
swap/replace roller segments 160 to accommodate metering of
different types of product (e.g., seed, fertilizer). For example,
some seeds may be large than others, such as corn versus canola. In
order to meter differently sized seeds and/or other products at a
desired rate, the modular meter roller 28 may change the roller
segments 160. As will be explained below, the roller segments 160
may differ in the number of fins 162, size of grooves 164, depth of
the grooves 164, as well as the profile of the fins 162 and/or the
grooves 164 in order to accommodate different types of metered
products.
[0057] The illustrated modular meter roller 28 includes three
separate roller segments 160 that are configured to couple to the
shaft 166. In other embodiments, the modular meter roller 28 may
include a different number of roller segments 160 (e.g., one, two,
three, four, five, six). Each of these roller segments 160 may
differ from the other roller segments 160 in its number of fins
162, size of the grooves 164, profile, and/or a combination
thereof. In this way, the modular meter roller 28 may enable
metering of different products simultaneously through the metering
system 18. The different roller segments 160 may also enable
metering of different products at different times without removing
and changing the modular meter roller 28. That is, some of the
roller segments 160 on the modular meter roller 28 may meter a
particular product while other roller segments 160 on the same
modular meter roller 28 meter a different product. As will be
explained below, in some embodiments the fins 162 and grooves 164
of the roller segments 160 may be offset (e.g., radially offset)
from one another about the shaft 166. In operation, the offset
between the roller segments 160 may reduce and/or block pulsing
(e.g., vibration) of the modular meter roller 28 and thus vibration
of the meter system 18.
[0058] In some embodiments, the shaft 166 may include multiple
sections that accommodate different apertures of the roller
segments 160. For example, the shaft 166 may include a first
section 168 that defines a first diameter 170 and a second shaft
section 172 that defines a second diameter 174. These shaft
sections 168 and 172 may have a specific cross-sectional shape that
enables the shaft 166 to couple to the roller segments 160 and to
transfer force from the motor to the roller segments 160. For
example, the first shaft section 168 may define a dodecahedron
exterior surface profile, while the second shaft section 172 may
define a hexagon exterior surface profile. These exterior surface
profiles correspond to the profile of the apertures 175 in the
roller segments 160 enabling the roller segments 160 to couple to
and rotate with the shaft 166.
[0059] As illustrated, a first end plate 176 couples to the first
section 168 of the shaft 166. The first end plate 176 is configured
to block removal of the roller segments 160 in direction 178. The
roller segments 160 are separated by discs 180 that couple to the
shaft 166. The discs 180 may reduce and/or block metered product
from moving between the roller segments 160. In order to block the
flow of product between the roller segments 160, the discs 180
define a diameter 181 that is equal to or greater than the diameter
of the roller segments 160. In some embodiments, the discs 180 may
define apertures 182 that correspond to a profile of the shaft 166
(e.g., hexagon profile) enabling the shaft 166 to drive rotation of
the discs 180 as well as the roller segments 160.
[0060] In order to block removal of the discs 180 and the roller
segments 160 from the shaft 166, the modular meter roller 28 may
include an end plate 184. The end plate 184 couples to the second
shaft section 172 with one or more fasteners 186 (e.g., threaded
fasteners) that couple to an end face 188 of the shaft 166.
[0061] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the assembled modular meter
roller 28 of FIG. 9. As illustrated, the roller segments 160 are
separated from each other by the discs 180 enabling each roller
segment 160 to meter product independently. Accordingly, each
roller segment 160 may therefore facilitate metering of a
particular product. In some embodiments, the roller segments 160 of
the modular meter roller 28 may be offset from each other about the
axis 190 of the shaft 166. That is, the fins 162 and grooves 164 of
the roller segments 160 may be offset (e.g., radially offset) from
one another about the shaft 166. By radially offsetting the roller
segments 160, seed and/or particulate may fill and discharge from
the grooves 164 at different times as the shaft 166 rotates.
Accordingly, the vibration generated by filling and discharging
particulate from the roller segments 160 may not occur
simultaneously along the axis 190 of the shaft 166, which may
reduce and/or block pulsing (e.g., vibration) of the modular meter
roller 28 and thus vibration of the meter system 18.
[0062] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an assembled modular meter
roller 28 with roller segments 160. The modular meter roller 28
includes four separate roller segments 200, 202, 204, and 206. As
illustrated, separation discs 180 separate the roller segments 200
and 202, and the roller segment 202 from the roller segments 204
and 206. As explained above, the separation discs 180 block may
reduce and/or block metered product from moving between the roller
segments 160. However in some embodiments, the modular meter roller
28 may not include a disc 180 between some or all of the roller
segments 160. As illustrated, the roller segments 204 and 206 are
not separated by a disc 180. Instead, the roller segments 204 and
206 are radially offset from each other about the axis 190 of the
modular meter roller 28. This offset may enable the roller segments
202 and 204 to reduce pulsing/vibration of the modular meter roller
28 while also reducing the transfer of product between the roller
segments 204 and 206.
[0063] FIG. 12 is a side view of a shaft 166 of the modular meter
roller of FIG. 9. As explained above, the shaft 166 may include
multiple sections. These sections may have different shapes and
diameters. The shaft 166 includes a first section 168 that defines
a first diameter 170 and a second shaft section 172 that defines a
second diameter 174. These shaft sections 168 and 172 may have a
specific cross-sectional shape that enables the shaft 166 to couple
to the roller segments 160 and to transfer force from the motor to
the roller segments 160. For example, the first shaft section 168
may define a dodecahedron exterior surface profile, while the
second shaft section 172 may define a hexagon exterior surface
profile. These exterior surface profiles correspond to apertures in
the roller segments 160 enabling the roller segments 160 to couple
to and rotate with the shaft 166. The length of these sections may
also differ. For example, the first section 168 may define a length
220 while the second section 172 defines a second length 222. The
lengths of these sections 168 and 172 may correspond to the lengths
or cumulative lengths of the roller segments 160. While two section
are illustrated, the shaft 166 may include multiple sections (e.g.,
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more) with different diameters. Each of these
sections may define the same or different exterior surface profiles
(e.g., hexagon, octagon, nonagon, decagon) that matches the
aperture in the roller segments 160. As illustrated, the end plate
176 couples to the first section 168 of the shaft 166. The first
end plate 176 is configured to block removal of the roller segments
160 in direction 178. In some embodiments, the first shaft section
168, the second shaft section 172, and the end plate 176 may be
one-piece (e.g., integral).
[0064] FIG. 13 is an end view of the shaft 166 of the modular meter
roller 28 of FIG. 9. As explained above, the shaft 166 includes the
first shaft section 168, the second shaft section 172, and the end
plate 176. As illustrated, the shaft 166 includes an aperture 240.
The aperture 240 receives the drive shaft 44 enabling the motor 45
to drive rotation of the modular meter roller 28. As explained
above, a second plate 184 couples to the end face 188 of the second
shaft section 172. In order to couple the second plate 184 to the
end face 188, the second shaft section 172 may define one or more
apertures 242. The apertures 242 receive the fasteners 186 which
couple the second plate 184 to the shaft 166. Once coupled to the
shaft 166, the second plate 184 blocks removal of the roller
segments 160 from the shaft 166. While three apertures 242 are
illustrated in FIG. 13, other embodiments may include a different
number of apertures 242 (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more).
[0065] FIGS. 14, 15, 16, 17, and 18 are cross-sectional views of
roller segments that may be used in the modular meter roller 28 of
FIG. 9. Each of these roller segments may differ from each other in
their number of fins, size of grooves (e.g., fins), profile, and/or
a combination thereof. In FIG. 14, the roller segment 260 includes
six fins 262 equally spaced about an axis 264. Between each of the
fins 262 is a groove 266. The grooves 266 receive the particulate
as the roller segment 260 rotates about the axis 264 during
operation of the modular meter roller 28. In some embodiments, the
fins 262 define curved surfaces 268 between the tips 270 and the
exterior surface or base 272 of the roller segment 260. The profile
of the roller segment 260 between the fins 262 may therefore form a
generally concave surface. In operation, as the roller segment 260
receives product, the curved surfaces 268 (e.g., concave profile)
guide product into the grooves 266, which may reduce or limit the
impact experienced by the product (e.g., seeds) as the product
fills the grooves 266.
[0066] The roller segment 260 defines an aperture 272 that receives
the shaft 166 enabling the roller segment 260 to couple to the
modular meter roller 28. In FIG. 14, the aperture 272 is in the
form of a hexagon. In other embodiments, the aperture 272 may have
a different shape (e.g., octogon, decagon) that corresponds to the
shape of the shaft 166. As explained above, the fins 262 are
equally spaced from each other about the axis 264. The angle 273
between each of the fins 262 is therefore sixty degrees.
[0067] As illustrated, the fins 262 and the aperture 272 are not
aligned. That is, the vertices 274 of the hexagonal aperture 272 do
not align with the axis 276 of the respective fins 262. As
illustrated, the vertices 274 of the hexagonal aperture 272 are
offset from the axis 276 of the proximate fins 262 by the angle
277. In FIG. 14, the vertices 274 of the hexagonal aperture 272 are
offset from the axis 276 of the proximate fins 262 by half the
angle 273 formed by neighboring fins 262 (i.e., 30.degree.). This
offset enables staggering (e.g., half-turn staggering) of the fins
262 of two roller segments 260 by rotating one of the roller
segments 260 a 180.degree. about the axis 278 in circumferential
direction 280 or 282. Accordingly, two identical roller segments
260 may be manufactured and coupled to the shaft 166 in two
configurations. In the first configuration the fins 262 may be
aligned with each other along the axis 264. In the second
configuration, the fins 262 may be offset (i.e., staggered) from
each other along the axis 264, which may reduce pulsing (e.g.,
vibration) of the modular meter roller 28 as the roller segments
260 rotate. The second configuration is illustrated in FIG. 15 with
two superimposed roller segments 260. As illustrated in the second
configuration, the fins 262 on the roller segments 260 are spaced
apart by 30.degree. about the axis 264. In other words, the fins
262 on a first roller segment bisect the 60.degree. angle between
the fins 262 on the second roller segment. Depending on the desired
stagger, the angle 277 may be changed to create the desired stagger
between the roller segments 260 while still enabling production of
identical roller segments 260.
[0068] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of a roller segment 300.
In FIG. 16, the roller segment 300 includes ten fins 302 equally
spaced about an axis 304 (e.g., circumferentially). As illustrated,
the fins 302 extend from an outer surface 306 of the roller segment
300, which creates grooves or pockets 308 between the fins 302. The
grooves 308 receive the particulate as the roller segment 300
rotates about the axis 304 during operation of the modular meter
roller 28. The profile of the roller segment 300 between the fins
302 is convex (e.g., convex surface).
[0069] The roller segment 300 defines an aperture 310 that receives
the shaft 166 enabling the roller segment 300 to couple to the
modular meter roller 28. In FIG. 16, the aperture 310 is in the
form of a hexagon. In other embodiments, the aperture 310 may have
a different shape (e.g., octogon, decagon) that corresponds to the
shape of the shaft 166. As explained above, the fins 302 are
equally spaced from each other about the axis 304. The angle 312
between each of the fins 302 is therefore 36.degree..
[0070] The fins 302 and the aperture 310 are not aligned. That is,
the vertices 314 of the hexagonal aperture 310 do not all align
with the axis 316 of the fins 302. As illustrated, the vertex 314
of the hexagonal aperture 310 are offset from the axis 316 of the
proximate fin 302 by the angle 318. In FIG. 16, the angle 318 is
half the angle 312 formed by neighboring fins 302 (i.e.,
18.degree.). This offset enables staggering (e.g., half-turn
staggering) of the fins 302 of two roller segments 300 by rotating
one of the roller segments 300 a 180.degree. about the axis 320 in
circumferential direction 322 or 324. Accordingly, two identical
roller segments 300 may be manufactured and coupled to the shaft
166 in two configurations. In the first configuration, the fins 302
may be aligned with each other along the axis 304. In the second
configuration, the fins 302 may be offset (i.e., staggered) between
roller segments 300 along the axis 304, which may reduce pulsing
(e.g., vibration) of the modular meter roller 28 as the roller
segments 300 rotate. Depending on the desired stagger, the angle
318 may be changed to create the desired stagger between the roller
segments 300 while still enabling production of identical roller
segments 300.
[0071] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of a roller segment 340.
In FIG. 17, the roller segment 340 includes twelve grooves or
flutes 342 equally spaced about an axis 344 (e.g.,
circumferentially). In operation, the flutes 342 receive the
particulate as the roller segment 340 rotates about the axis 344
during operation of the modular meter roller 28.
[0072] In order to couple the roller segment 340 to the shaft 166,
the roller segment 340 defines an aperture 346 that receives the
shaft 166 enabling the roller segment 340 to couple to the modular
meter roller 28. In FIG. 17, the aperture 346 is in the form of a
hexagon. In other embodiments, the aperture 346 may have a
different shape (e.g., octogon, decagon) that corresponds to the
shape of the shaft 166. As illustrated, the flutes 342 are equally
sized and spaced about the axis 344. The angle 348 between the tips
350 of each of the flutes 342 is therefore 30.degree..
[0073] The tips 350 of the flutes 342 do not align with the
aperture 346. That is, the vertices 352 of the hexagonal aperture
346 do not all align with the axis 354 that extends between the
flute tips 350 and the axis 344. As illustrated, the vertex 352 of
the hexagonal aperture 310 is offset from the axis 354 of the flute
tip 350 by the angle 356. In FIG. 17, the angle 356 is half the
angle 348 formed between the flute tips 350 (i.e., 15.degree.).
This offset enables staggering (e.g., half-turn staggering) of the
flutes 342 of two roller segments 340 by rotating one of the roller
segments 340 a 180.degree. about the axis 358 in circumferential
direction 360 or 362. Accordingly, two identical roller segments
340 may be manufactured and coupled to the shaft 166 in two
configurations. In the first configuration the flutes 342 may be
aligned with each other along the axis 344. In the second
configuration, the flutes 342 may be offset (i.e., staggered) from
each other along the axis 344, which may reduce pulsing (e.g.,
vibration) of the modular meter roller 28 as the roller segments
340 rotate. Again, depending on the desired stagger, the angle 356
may be changed to create the desired stagger between the roller
segments 340 while still enabling production of identical roller
segments 340.
[0074] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of a roller segment 380.
In FIG. 18, the roller segment 380 includes fifteen grooves or
flutes 382 equally spaced about an axis 384 (e.g.,
circumferentially). In operation, the flutes 382 receive the
particulate as the roller segment 380 rotates about the axis 384
during operation of the modular meter roller 28.
[0075] In order to couple the roller segment 380 to the shaft 166,
the roller segment 380 defines an aperture 386 that receives the
shaft 166 enabling the roller segment 380 to couple to the modular
meter roller 28. In FIG. 18, the aperture 386 is in the form of a
dodgecagon. In other embodiments, the aperture 386 may have a
different shape (e.g., hexagon, octogon, decagon) that corresponds
to the shape of the shaft 166. As illustrated, the flutes 382 are
equally sized and spaced about the axis 384. The angle 388 between
the tips 390 each of the flutes 382 is therefore 24.degree..
[0076] The number of flutes 382 may not correspond to the shape of
the aperture 386 therefore the flutes 382 and the aperture 386 may
not align. That is, the vertices 392 of the hexagonal aperture 386
do not all align with the axis 394 that extends between the flute
tips 390 and the axis 384 (e.g., central axis of the roller segment
380). As illustrated, the vertex 392 of the aperture 386 is offset
from the axis 394 of the flute tip 390 by the angle 396. In FIG.
18, the angle 396 is half the angle 388 formed between the flute
tips 390 (i.e., 15.degree.). This offset enables staggering (e.g.,
half-turn staggering) of the flutes 382 of two roller segments 380
by rotating one of the roller segments 380 a 180.degree. about the
axis 398 in circumferential direction 400 or 402. Accordingly, two
identical roller segments 380 may be manufactured and coupled to
the shaft 166 in two configurations. In the first configuration the
flutes 382 may be aligned with each other along the axis 384. In
the second configuration, the flutes 382 may be offset (i.e.,
staggered) from each other along the axis 384, which may reduce
pulsing (e.g., vibration) of the modular meter roller 28 as the
roller segments 380 rotate. Again, depending on the desired
stagger, the angle 396 may be changed to create the desired stagger
between the roller segments 380 while still enabling production of
identical roller segments 380.
[0077] FIG. 19 is a partial sectional view of roller segments 420
and 422. As explained above, roller segments (e.g., roller segments
160, 260, 300, 340, and 380) may be staggered, which may reduce
pulsing (e.g., vibration) of the modular meter roller 28 and/or the
meter system 18. For example, the roller segments in a modular
meter roller 28 may be half-staggered wherein either the fins
and/or flutes of a first roller segment are misaligned with the
fins and/or flutes of a second roller segment such that the fins
and/or flutes of the first roller segment are positioned half-way
between the fins and/or flutes of the second roller segment along
the shaft. As explained above, the roller segments may be staggered
by circumferentially rotating the roller segments about a central
axis. This enables identical roller segments to manufactured while
still enabling staggering of the roller segments. The staggering is
formed by misaligning the fins or flute tips of the roller segments
along the axis of the shaft.
[0078] To facilitate half-staggering the fins and/or flutes, the
roller segments 420 and 422 may include respective alignment
features 424 and 426. As seen above, some of the roller segments
may define an aperture with a shape that does not have the same
number of sides as the number of fins or flutes on the roller
segment. Accordingly, the number of positions that enable
half-staggering of the roller segments may be one or two
circumferential positions. For example, if the roller segment
aperture is a hexagon and the number of fins and/or flutes can be
evenly divided by 6 (e.g., 12, 18) the roller segments can be
aligned, in the manner explained above, without alignment features.
However, for roller segments having a number of flutes or fins that
are not equal to or evenly divided by the number of the faces of
the aperture, the alignment features 424, 426 may facilitate
half-staggering alignment of the roller segments. For example, the
roller segment 300 of FIG. 16 includes an even number of fins 302
(i.e., 10) and will therefore have two locations for alignment with
the hexagonal aperture 310. In another example, the roller segment
380 of FIG. 18 includes an odd number of flutes 382 and will
therefore have one location for alignment with the dodecagon
aperture 386. The alignment features 424 and 426 may be
protrusions, markings (e.g., color codes symbols, symbols, letters,
numbers, or combinations thereof). In some embodiments, the
alignment feature may be placed on a fin, fin tip, top of a flute,
body of the roller segment, and/or a combination thereof to
facilitate staggering alignment of roller segments.
[0079] FIG. 20 is an exploded perspective view of a modular meter
roller 28. As explained above, the modular meter roller 28 enables
a user to swap/replace roller segments 450 to accommodate metering
of different types of product and/or product sizes (e.g., seed,
fertilizer). The illustrated modular meter roller 28 includes three
separate roller segments 450 that are configured to couple to a
modular shaft 452. In other embodiments, the modular meter roller
28 may include a different number of roller segments 450 (e.g.,
one, two, three, four, five, six). Each of these roller segments
450 may differ from the other roller segments 450 (e.g., number of
fins, flutes, groove shape, or a combination thereof). In this way,
the modular meter roller 28 may enable metering of different
products simultaneously or at different times through the metering
system 18. Modularity of the meter roller 28 may also enable the
roller segments 450 to couple to the modular shaft 452 in different
configurations. That is, the fins and/or flutes of the roller
segments 450 may be aligned or staggered when coupled to the
modular shaft 452. As explained above, staggering of the roller
segments 450 may reduce and/or block pulsing (e.g., vibration) of
the modular meter roller 28 and thus vibration of the meter system
18.
[0080] In some embodiments, the modular shaft 452 may include
multiple sections that accommodate different apertures of the
roller segments 450. For example, the modular shaft 452 may include
a first section 454. The first section 454 may include an end plate
456 that blocks removal of the roller segments 450 in direction
458. The first section 454 may also include a first shaft portion
460 that receives a roller segment 450. As illustrated, the first
shaft portion 460 defines a first diameter 462 that may be greater
than other shaft portions. Coupled to the first shaft portion 460
is a second shaft portion 464. The second shaft portion 464 defines
a diameter 466. The second shaft portion 464 is configured to be
inserted into an aperture 468 of a second shaft section 470. The
second shaft section 470 is configured to couple to a third shaft
section 472 with a shaft connector 474. In operation, the shaft
connector 474 is configured to increase torque transfer from the
second shaft section 470 to the third shaft section 472. The shaft
connector 474 includes one or more protrusions 476 that extend
(e.g., radially extend) from an exterior surface 478. The
protrusions 476 are configured to interlock or engage protrusions
480 that extend from an end surface 482 of the second shaft section
470. That is, a first end 484 of the shaft connector 474 is
configured to slide into the aperture 468 of the second shaft
section 470 to enable the protrusions 476 on the shaft connector
474 to rest in-between the protrusions 480 on the second shaft
section 470. In some embodiments, the shaft connector 474 may
define one or more slits 486 that enable fingers 488 of the first
end 484 to flex radially inward during insertion of the first end
484 into the second shaft section 470.
[0081] In order to couple the third shaft section 472 to the shaft
connector 474, a second end 490 of the shaft connector 474 slides
into an aperture 492 of the third shaft section 472. An end cap 494
completes the modular shaft 452 and couples to the third shaft
section 472. The end cap 494 includes one or more protrusions 496
that extend (e.g., extend radially outward) from an exterior
surface 498. The protrusions 496 are configured to interlock or
engage protrusions 500 that extend from an end surface 502 of the
third shaft section 472. In operation, the end cap 494 is
configured to slide into the aperture 492 of the third shaft
section 472 to enable the protrusions 496 on the end cap 494 to
rest in-between the protrusions 500 on the third shaft section 472.
In some embodiments, the end cap 494 may define one or more slits
504 that enable fingers 506 on the end cap 494 to flex radially
inward during insertion into the third shaft section 472. In some
embodiments, the end cap 494 may also define grooves 508 in the
exterior surface 498. The grooves 508 may enable the end cap 494 to
receive protrusions 510 on an end plate 512. The protrusions 510 of
the end plate 512 extend from the interior surface 514 that defines
the aperture 515. By receiving the protrusions 510 of the end plate
512, the end cap 494 is able to couple the end plate 512 to the
modular shaft 452 and block removal of the roller segments 450. In
some embodiments, the modular shaft 452 may include one or more
rods 516 (e.g., heat stakes, self-tapping screws, threaded rods)
that may extend through the end plate 456, the first shaft portion
460, the second shaft portion 464, the second shaft section 470,
the third shaft section 472, and the shaft connector 474 or a
subset thereof. After passing through these components of the
modular shaft 452, the rods 516 may then couple to the end cap 494.
For example, the rods 516 may threadingly couple to the end cap
494. The rods 516 may also be heat stakes that extend through one
or more apertures in the end cap 494. After passing through the end
cap 494, the heat stakes may then be melted to create a head on the
rods 516 that blocks their withdrawal through the one or more
apertures in the end cap 494.
[0082] As illustrated, the modular shaft 452 may define one or more
shapes that correspond to the shape of the apertures on the roller
segments 450. For example, the first shaft portion 460 may define a
dodecahedron exterior surface profile, while the second and third
shaft sections 470 and 472 may define a hexagon exterior surface
profile. These exterior surface profiles correspond to the profile
of the apertures in the roller segments 450 as well as the discs
518 (e.g., separation discs) and the end plate 512.
[0083] FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective view of a modular meter
roller 28. As explained above, the modular meter roller 28 enables
a user to swap/replace roller segments 540 to accommodate metering
of different types of product and/or product sizes (e.g., seed,
fertilizer). The illustrated modular meter roller 28 includes three
separate roller segments 540 that are configured to couple to a
modular shaft 542. In other embodiments, the modular meter roller
28 may include a different number of roller segments 540 (e.g.,
one, two, three, four, five, six). Each of these roller segments
540 may differ from the other roller segments 540 (e.g., number of
fins, flutes, groove shape, or a combination thereof). In this way,
the modular meter roller 28 may enable metering of different
products simultaneously or at different times through the metering
system 18. Modularity of the meter roller 28 may also enable the
roller segments 540 to couple to the modular shaft 542 in different
configurations. That is, the fins and/or flutes of the roller
segments 540 may be aligned or staggered when coupled to the
modular shaft 542. As explained above, staggering of the roller
segments 540 may reduce and/or block pulsing (e.g., vibration) of
the modular meter roller 28 and thus vibration of the meter system
18.
[0084] In some embodiments, the modular shaft 542 may include
multiple sections that accommodate different apertures of the
roller segments 540. For example, the modular shaft 542 may include
a first section 544. The first section 544 may include an end plate
546 that blocks removal of the roller segments 540 in direction
548. The first section 544 may also include a first shaft portion
550 that receives a roller segment 540. As illustrated, the first
shaft portion 550 defines a first diameter 552 that may be greater
than other shaft portions. Coupled to the first shaft portion 550
is a second shaft portion 554. The second shaft portion 554 defines
a diameter 556. The second shaft portion 554 is configured to be
inserted into an aperture 558 of a second shaft section 560. The
second shaft section 560 is configured to couple to a third shaft
section 562. Specifically, a first end 564 of the second shaft
section 560 is configured to be inserted into an aperture 566 of
the third shaft section 562. As illustrated, the first end 564
defines a width 568, which is equal to or substantially equal to a
width of the aperture 566. The first end 564 is therefore able to
slide into the third shaft section 562 until the lip or ledge 570
contacts the end face 572 of the third shaft section 562.
[0085] An end cap 574 completes the modular shaft 542 and couples
to the third shaft section 562. The end cap 574 includes one or
more protrusions 576 that extend (e.g., extend radially outward)
from an exterior surface 578. The protrusions 576 are configured to
interlock or engage protrusions 580 that extend from an end surface
582 of the third shaft section 562. In operation, the end cap 574
is configured to slide into the aperture 566 of the third shaft
section 562 to enable the protrusions 576 on the end cap 574 to
rest in between the protrusions 580 on the third shaft section 562.
In some embodiments, the end cap 574 may define one or more slits
584 that enable fingers 586 of the end cap 574 to flex radially
inward during insertion into the third shaft section 562. In some
embodiments, the end cap 574 may also define grooves 588 in the
exterior surface 578. The grooves 588 may enable the end cap 574 to
receive protrusions 590 on an end plate 592. The protrusions 590 of
the end plate 592 extend from the interior surface 594 that defines
the aperture 596. By receiving the protrusions 590 of the end plate
592, the end cap 574 is able to couple the end plate 592 to the
modular shaft 542 and block removal of the roller segments 540. In
some embodiments, the modular shaft 542 may include one or more
rods 598 (e.g., heat stakes, self-tapping screws, threaded rods)
that may extend through the end plate 546, the first shaft portion
550, the second shaft portion 554, the second shaft section 560,
the third shaft section 562, and the shaft connector 564 or a
subset thereof. After passing through these components of the
modular shaft 542, the rods 598 may then couple to the end cap 574.
For example, the rods 598 may threadingly couple to the end cap
574. The rods 598 may also be heat stakes that extend through one
or more apertures in the end cap 574. After passing through the end
cap 574, the heat stakes may then be melted to create a head on the
rods 598 that blocks their withdrawal through the one or more
apertures in the end cap 574.
[0086] As illustrated, the modular shaft 542 may define one or more
shapes that correspond to the shape of the apertures on the roller
segments 540. For example, the first shaft portion 550 may define a
dodecahedron exterior surface profile, while the second and third
shaft sections 560 and 562 may define a hexagon exterior surface
profile. These exterior surface profiles correspond to the profile
of the apertures in the roller segments 540 as well as the discs
600 (e.g., separation discs) and the end plate 592.
[0087] FIG. 22 is an exploded perspective view of a modular meter
roller 28. As explained above, the modular meter roller 28 enables
a user to swap/replace roller segments 620 to accommodate metering
of different types of product and/or product sizes (e.g., seed,
fertilizer). The illustrated modular meter roller 28 includes three
separate roller segments 620 that are configured to couple to a
modular shaft 622. In other embodiments, the modular meter roller
28 may include a different number of roller segments 620 (e.g.,
one, two, three, four, five, six). Each of these roller segments
620 may differ from the other roller segments 620 (e.g., number of
fins, flutes, groove shape, or a combination thereof). In this way,
the modular meter roller 28 may enable metering of different
products simultaneously through the metering system 18. Modularity
of the meter roller 28 may also enable the roller segments 620 to
couple to the modular shaft 622 in different configurations. That
is, the fins and/or flutes of the roller segments 620 may be
aligned or staggered when coupled to the modular shaft 622. As
explained above, staggering of the roller segments 620 may reduce
and/or block pulsing (e.g., vibration) of the modular meter roller
28 and thus vibration of the meter system 18.
[0088] In some embodiments, the modular shaft 622 may include
multiple sections that accommodate different apertures of the
roller segments 620. For example, the modular shaft 622 may include
a first section 624. The first section 624 may include an end plate
626 that blocks removal of the roller segments 620 in direction
628. The first section 624 may also include a first shaft portion
630 that receives a roller segment 620. As illustrated, the first
shaft portion 630 defines a first diameter 632 that may be greater
than other shaft portions and/or sections. Coupled to the first
shaft portion 630 is a second shaft portion 634. The second shaft
portion 634 defines a diameter 636. The second shaft portion 634 in
turn couples to a shaft connector 638. The shaft connector 638
defines a width 640. The shaft connector 638 is configured to be
inserted into an aperture 642 of a second shaft section 644. In
some embodiments, the shaft connector 638 may include one or more
arms or fingers 646 with protrusions 648. The arms 646 are
configured to flex radially inward as the shaft connector 638 is
inserted into the second shaft section 644. The arms 646 slide into
the second shaft section 644 until the protrusions 648 align with
the apertures 650 in the second shaft section 644. Once the
protrusions 648 align with the apertures 650, the arms 646 drive
the protrusions 648 radially outward and into the apertures 650
forming a connection (e.g., snapfit connection) between the first
shaft section 624 and the second shaft section 644.
[0089] An end cap 652 completes the modular shaft 622 and couples
to the second shaft section 644. The end cap 652 includes one or
more protrusions 654 that extend (e.g., extend radially outward)
from an exterior surface 655. The protrusions 654 are configured to
interlock or engage protrusions 656 that extend from an end surface
659 of the second shaft section 644. In operation, the end cap 652
is configured to slide into the aperture 642 of the second shaft
section 644 to enable the protrusions 654 on the end cap 652 to
rest in between the protrusions 656 on the second shaft section
644. In some embodiments, the end cap 652 may include one or more
fingers 657 that flex radially inward during insertion into the
second shaft section 644. The fingers 657 include protrusions 658
that are configured to be inserted into the apertures 660 in the
second shaft section 644. Once the protrusions 658 align with the
apertures 660, the fingers 657 drive the protrusions 658 radially
outward and into the apertures 660 forming a connection (e.g.,
snapfit connection) between the end cap 652 and the second shaft
section 644.
[0090] In some embodiments, the end cap 652 may also define grooves
662 in the exterior surface 655. The grooves 662 may enable the end
cap 652 to receive protrusions 664 on an end plate 668. The
protrusions 664 of the end plate 668 extend from the interior
surface 670 that defines the aperture 672. By receiving the
protrusions 664 of the end plate 668, the end cap 652 is able to
couple the end plate 668 to the modular shaft 622 and block removal
of the roller segments 620. As illustrated, the modular shaft 622
may define one or more shapes that correspond to the shape of the
apertures on the roller segments 620. For example, the first shaft
portion 630 may define a dodecahedron exterior surface profile,
while the second shaft section 644 may define a hexagon exterior
surface profile. These exterior surface profiles correspond to the
profile of the apertures in the roller segments 620 as well as the
discs 674 (e.g., separation discs) and the end plate 668.
[0091] FIG. 23 is an exploded perspective view of a modular meter
roller 28. As explained above, the modular meter roller 28 enables
a user to swap/replace roller segments 700 to accommodate metering
of different types of product and/or product sizes (e.g., seed,
fertilizer). The illustrated modular meter roller 28 includes three
separate roller segments 700 that are configured to couple to a
modular shaft 702. In other embodiments, the modular meter roller
28 may include a different number of roller segments 700 (e.g.,
one, two, three, four, five, six). Each of these roller segments
700 may differ from the other roller segments 700 (e.g., number of
fins, flutes, groove shape, or a combination thereof). In this way,
the modular meter roller 28 may enable metering of different
products simultaneously or at different times through the metering
system 18. Modularity of the meter roller 28 may also enable the
roller segments 700 to couple to the modular shaft 702 in different
configurations. That is, the fins and/or flutes of the roller
segments 700 may be aligned or staggered when coupled to the
modular shaft 702. As explained above, staggering of the roller
segments 700 may reduce and/or block pulsing (e.g., vibration) of
the modular meter roller 28 and thus vibration of the meter system
18.
[0092] In some embodiments, the modular shaft 702 may include
multiple sections that accommodate different apertures of the
roller segments 700. For example, the modular shaft 702 may include
a first section 704. The first section 704 may include an end plate
706 that blocks removal of the roller segments 700 in direction
708. The first section 704 may also include a first shaft portion
710 that receives a roller segment 700. As illustrated, the first
shaft portion 710 defines a first diameter 712 that may be greater
than other shaft portions and/or sections. Coupled to the first
shaft portion 710 is a second shaft portion 714. The second shaft
portion 714 defines a diameter 716.
[0093] The second shaft portion 714 couples to an end cap 718 to
complete the modular shaft 702. The end cap 718 includes one or
more protrusions 720 that extend (e.g., extend radially outward)
from an exterior surface 722. The protrusions 720 are configured to
interlock or engage protrusions 724 that extend from an end surface
726 of the second shaft portion 714. In operation, the end cap 718
is configured to slide into the aperture 728 of the second shaft
portion 714 to enable the protrusions 720 on the end cap 718 to
rest in between the protrusions 724 on the second shaft portion
714. In some embodiments, the end cap 718 may include one or more
fingers 730 that flex radially inward during insertion into the
second shaft portion 714. The fingers 730 include protrusions 732
that are configured to be inserted into the apertures 734 in the
second shaft portion 714. Once the protrusions 720 align with the
apertures 734, the fingers 730 drive the protrusions 732 radially
outward and into the apertures 734 forming a connection (e.g.,
snapfit connection) between the end cap 718 and the second shaft
portion 714.
[0094] In some embodiments, the end cap 718 may also define grooves
736 in the exterior surface 722. The grooves 736 may enable the end
cap 718 to receive protrusions 738 on an end plate 740. The
protrusions 738 of the end plate 740 extend from the interior
surface 742 that defines the aperture 744. By receiving the
protrusions 738 of the end plate 740, the end cap 718 is able to
couple the end plate 740 to the modular shaft 702 and block removal
of the roller segments 700. As illustrated, the modular shaft 702
may define one or more shapes that correspond to the shape of the
apertures on the roller segments 700. For example, the first shaft
portion 710 may define a dodecahedron exterior surface profile,
while the second shaft portion 714 may define a hexagon exterior
surface profile. These exterior surface profiles correspond to the
profile of the apertures in the roller segments 700 as well as the
discs 746 (e.g., separation discs) and the end plate 740.
[0095] While only certain features 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 disclosure.
* * * * *