FR3149469A1 - SHEATH CRACKING DEVICE - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a cracking device intended to be towed, in a direction of advance (A), by an agricultural machine so as to crack a ground, said device comprising - a prop (16), and - a coulter (20), and - optionally a fin (26), the coulter and the optional fin being fixed to the prop, directly or not, in a removable manner independently of each other, characterized in that the coulter defines a tubular housing (50) for receiving the prop of a shape complementary to that of the prop (16). No abstract figure

Description

SHEATH CRACKING DEVICE

The present invention relates to an agricultural cracking device comprising a prop and a cracking tool, fixed to the prop in a detachable manner, intended for cracking a soil. The invention also relates to a cultivator or a subsoiler or a cultivator or a seeder, equipped with one, preferably several such cracking devices.

State of the art

A cracking tool is intended to crack and loosen the soil to break up the plow pan to allow plant roots to find moisture more easily, which improves their growth and yield. For this purpose, when used, a cracking tool typically goes about 1 cm to 35 cm into the soil.

A cracking tool typically includes a coulter that is used to split the earth and crack it vertically. The coulter generally forms the front edge of the tool, in the direction of advancement of the tool into the earth (or leading edge). The cracking tool may also include a point that extends in front of and below the coulter.

Traditionally, cracking tools are arranged next to each other, so as to crack a strip of ground. Each cracking tool is spaced from the cracking tools adjacent to it by a distance of about 30 cm. However, the cracking action of a coulter and a point does not extend over a width of 30 cm. To crack the entire strip of ground between the coulters, each tool traditionally has a fin with two horizontal fins, which extend on each side of the coulter and split the earth horizontally. The fins are traditionally arranged behind or next to the coulter, like the horizontal tail of an airplane. Their work is made easier by the vertical cracking produced by the coulter. Like the coulter and the point, the fins wear out and must be easy to replace.

Finally, during cracking work, the coulter, the tip and the fin are subjected to varying forces and shocks, for example when in contact with stones. A shock to a fin can in particular create a twist on the tool, for example around a substantially vertical axis. This twisting can make disassembly more difficult, particularly of the fins.

There is a need for a cracking device that is easier to assemble and disassemble, especially after prolonged use of the tool.

To this end, the invention proposes a cracking device intended to be towed, in a direction of advance, by an agricultural machine so as to crack a ground, said device comprising
- a prop,
- a cracking coulter, and
- a fin.
the cracking coulter and the fin being fixed, directly or indirectly, to the prop in a removable manner independently of each other.

According to a first main aspect of the invention, the fin is fixed so as to be towed in service, the longitudinal distance, measured between the towing point and the center of inertia of the fin, measured in the direction of advancement, being preferably greater than 3 cm.

By “pulled in service” is meant that in service, i.e. when the cracking device is pulled by an agricultural machine, preferably a tractor, to crack the ground, a tractive force is exerted on the fin, in front of the fin’s centre of inertia. Mounting the fin “in traction” improves stability in service and thus limits the risk of damage to the fin’s fixing means, which would make dismantling the fin more difficult.

In addition, this arrangement advantageously allows the assembly and disassembly of the fin independently of the assembly and disassembly of the coulter. Replacement of the fin and the coulter after wear is made easier. This results in a substantial saving of time for the user.

Preferably, the longitudinal distance between the traction point and the center of inertia of the fin is greater than 5 cm, or even greater than 7 cm or greater than 10 cm. Advantageously, the movements of the fin, in particular the lateral movements, have little effect on the position of the other parts of the cracking device. Preferably, however, this distance is less than 30 cm, preferably less than 20 cm so that the fin remains substantially centered on the median longitudinal plane of the device and does not make rotation in a horizontal plane too difficult when the agricultural machine turns.

Preferably, the longitudinal distance between the strut and the center of inertia of the fin is greater than 5 cm, preferably greater than 7 cm, preferably greater than 10 cm, or even greater than 15 cm and/or less than 30 cm, preferably less than 20 cm.

Preferably, the center of inertia of the fin is in a transverse plane behind the transverse plane of the center of inertia of the coulter, preferably behind the coulter. Preferably, the longitudinal distance between these transverse planes is greater than 7 cm, preferably greater than 10 cm, or even greater than 15 cm and/or less than 30 cm, preferably less than 20 cm.

Preferably, the fin is fixed, preferably threaded onto an elongated Y-axis protrusion extending towards the rear of the coulter, called a “fin holder” or “roost”, preferably in the form of one or more elongated bars and/or plates preferably extending substantially horizontally.

Preferably, the fin is configured so that it must be slid onto the fin carrier when being mounted. Preferably, the fin carrier defines at least one upper stop and/or one lower stop preventing any upward and/or downward movement of the fin, respectively.

Preferably, the fin comprises two fins connected by a junction, the fin carrier having a shape complementary to the junction so as to prevent rotation of the fin about the axis of the fin carrier.

Preferably, the Y axis of the fin holder forms, in the service position, an angle of less than 20° with a horizontal plane.

Preferably, the fin is locked in position on the fin carrier by means of at least one locking rod, for example a screw or a pin. Preferably, the locking rod tends, under the effect of its weight, towards a locking position in position of the fin on the fin carrier. Preferably, it extends, in the service configuration, in a vertical plane, preferably in a transverse plane, preferably vertically.

In one embodiment, the device comprises an adapter, removably fixed to the strut, and the fin is fixed to the adapter. Preferably, the adapter comprises several fin holders preferably extending one above the other, preferably in the median longitudinal plane, two successive fin holders, preferably any two successive fin holders, being preferably spaced apart by a vertical distance greater than 4 cm, preferably greater than 5 cm, preferably greater than 10 cm, and/or less than 40 cm, preferably less than 30 cm.

In one embodiment, the coulter is attached to a coulter support, itself attached to the stanchion. Preferably, the fin is attached to the coulter support, preferably to a fin holder of the coulter support.

In one embodiment, the fin is attached to the coulter, which is attached to a coulter support or to the prop. Preferably, the fin is attached to a fin holder of the coulter.

In one embodiment, the device comprises a cracking tip removably attached to a coulter support, and the fin is attached to the tip, preferably to the tip shank.

In one embodiment, the device comprises a side protection plate removably attached to the stanchion, and the fin is attached to the protection plate.

The part on which the fin is attached is called the "fin mount".

According to a second main aspect of the invention, particularly advantageous, the fin has the shape of a flat sheet of constant thickness, in the shape of a chevron. The fin is then preferably fixed on a plate, preferably fixed between two plates carried by, preferably welded to the fin support, the plates, preferably horizontal, being preferably spaced apart from each other by a distance substantially equal to said thickness. Preferably, the junction between the fins of the fin is pierced with a through hole. The invention also relates to such a fin, advantageously quick to manufacture, assemble and disassemble.

According to a third main aspect of the invention, the fin has a chevron shape pointing towards the rear, considering the direction of advancement. Preferably, seen from above, the fin has a general “V” shape, symmetrical with respect to the median longitudinal plane Pm, the tip of the “V” being at the rear end of the fin.

The V is shown in dotted lines on the (A5).

Remarkably, such a fin shape, “inverted chevron”, makes it possible to bring the cracked earth back towards the median longitudinal plane. The surface of the ground after passage of the cracking device is advantageously made flatter. The invention also relates to such a fin.

This main aspect of the invention is notably illustrated in the .

According to a fourth main aspect of the invention, the coulter or the adapter (in the case where the device comprises an adapter) defines a tubular housing for receiving the prop, of a shape complementary to that of the prop.

A device according to the fourth main aspect of the invention may have one or more of the following optional features:
- the coulter comprises a rear protection plate, two side protection plates and a front, or "frontal", protection plate, preferably welded to each other, together defining a sheath of section substantially identical to the cross-section of the section of the prop housed therein;
- the device comprises a rod for locking the prop in the sheath, said locking rod preferably extending in a median longitudinal plane of the device;
- the stanchion locking rod is a bolt comprising:
- a screw with a head resting on the rear protection plate and passing through the rear protection plate, the stanchion and the front protection plate,
- a nut screwed onto the screw and resting on the front protection plate;
- the nut is housed in a hole, preferably through, preferably transverse, made through the coulter;
- the device comprises a fin, preferably fixed on the coulter or on a fin holder fixed, preferably welded, on the coulter;
- the device includes a fin which, seen from above, has the shape of a chevron pointing towards the rear;
- the coulter comprises an elongated Y-axis protrusion, extending towards the rear of the coulter, called a “fin holder”, in the form of one or more elongated bars and/or plates, on which the fin is fixed, in a removable manner.

The invention also relates to an adapter and a coulter adapted to a device according to the fourth main aspect of the invention.

Of course, to the extent of their technical compatibility, the various main aspects of the invention can be combined.

The invention further relates to a soil cracking device, in particular a cultivator or a subsoiler or a cultivator or a seeder, comprising more than 3 cracking devices according to the invention.

Brief description of the figures

Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will become apparent upon examination of the description which follows and with regard to the attached drawing in which:
- there illustrates an embodiment of a cracking device according to the invention, in perspective and exploded view (a), side view (b) and top view (c), the fin being fixed, in a removable manner, on the tip;
- there illustrates different embodiments of a cracking device according to the invention, in perspective, in which the fin is fixed, in a removable manner, on an adapter sandwiching the prop, with the coulter;
- there illustrates an embodiment of a cracking device according to the invention, in perspective, in which the fin is fixed, in a removable manner, on a fin holder fixed on protective plates;
- there illustrates different embodiments of a cracking device according to the invention, in side views, in which the fin is fixed, in a removable manner, on an adapter defining a tubular housing for receiving the prop;
- there illustrates different embodiments of a cracking device according to the invention comprising an inverted chevron fin;
- there illustrates a coulter according to the invention, for implementing the fourth main aspect of the invention;
- there illustrates an embodiment of a cracking device according to the invention in which the fin is fixed, in a removable manner, on a fin holder fixed on protective plates.

In the various non-limiting figures, identical or similar elements are designated by the same numerical reference. For the brevity of the present description, these identical or similar elements are not described in detail in each example, only the differences distinguishing the examples being described in detail.

Definitions

The “service configuration” is a configuration in which the cracking tool is ready to be used and attached to an agricultural machine, preferably a tractor, to crack horizontal soil. The various constituent parts of the cracking tool are therefore assembled to be operational.

The cracking tool is “in service” when it is in the service configuration and is being towed, in a “direction of advancement” A (see ), by agricultural machinery to crack the horizontal ground.

In this description, the terms “lower”, “upper”, “above”, “below”, “horizontal”, “vertical”, “front”, “rear”, “in front”, “behind”, “right”, “left” and “lateral” are defined in relation to the service configuration.

The adjectives "right" and "left" refer to an observer looking from the cracking tool forward in the direction of advancement.

The "median longitudinal plane" is the vertical plane parallel to the direction of advancement and which, in the service configuration, passes through the center of inertia of the cracking tool. Conventionally, the prop extends in the median longitudinal plane.

Unless otherwise specified, a "transverse" plane is a vertical plane perpendicular to the direction of travel, and the "lateral" direction extends horizontally in a transverse plane.

The "vertical" distance between two points is the distance between the heights, that is, between the coordinates along the vertical axis from the ground, of these points, in the service configuration.

The "longitudinal" distance between two points is the difference between the coordinates of these two points, along the longitudinal axis, that is to say the distance between these two points along the direction of advancement.

By "fix" we mean "rigidly secure".

The coulter and the fin may be fixed directly or indirectly to the stanchion. By “direct fixing” of a first part to a second part, it is meant that the first part is supported by the second part, without an intermediate part. An indirect fixing means that the first part is not applied in contact with the second part, and that an intermediate part is interposed between the first and second parts. Unless otherwise indicated, “fix” means “fix directly”.

Detailed description

A device for cracking a soil, typically agricultural land, such as a cultivator or a subsoiler or a cultivator or a seeder, typically comprises more than 3, more than 10, or more than 20, or more than 40 or more than 60 and/or less than 100 cracking devices 12 according to the invention. The cracking devices 12 are preferably arranged next to each other along at least one transverse line, so as to crack a strip of land in use. They are preferably all fixed to a common chassis, towed by an agricultural machine, preferably a tractor.

Each cracking device comprises a strut 16 and a cracking tool 18, fixed to the strut (see ).

Prop

The stanchion 16 has a straight shape or, preferably, a comma or “C-tooth” shape ( ). It then classically has an upper part extending substantially horizontally, a lower part on which the cracking tool is fixed, and a curved central section joining the lower part and the upper part.

The stanchion 16 may have a “pigtail”, that is to say, it may wrap around itself so as to form a loop, as illustrated in the .

The stanchion 16 preferably has a substantially constant thickness, in particular at least in its lower part. The stanchion may in particular have a constant cross-section (perpendicular to the direction of the length of the stanchion), with the exception of a possibly tapered end part.

The cross-section of the stanchion may be substantially rectangular or square. The width of the stanchion may be greater than 10 mm, preferably greater than 20 mm, and/or less than 50 mm, preferably less than 40 mm. The length of the cross-section of the stanchion is preferably greater than 30 mm, greater than 50 mm, greater than 70 mm, and/or less than 300 mm, less than 150 mm, less than 150 mm, less than 100 mm.

Preferably, the strut 16 has a rectangular or square cross-section over more than 50%, preferably more than 80%, or even substantially 100% of its length. Preferably, the strut has the shape of a “flat iron”, that is to say, the two large faces of which are substantially flat and substantially parallel to each other.

Cracking tool

Each cracking tool 18 comprises a coulter 20, a fin 26 and optionally a coulter holder 27 and/or a tip 28 and/or a stanchion protection plate 29 and/or an adapter 30 for securing the fin. All these parts are secured to each other in the service configuration, in a detachable manner.

All conventional removable fixing methods are possible, in particular for fixing
- the coulter on the coulter support or on the prop,
- the coulter support on the prop,
- the tip on the coulter support,
- the fin on the coulter, the stanchion, the adapter, the protection plate or the coulter support,
- the protection plate of the stanchion, or
- the adapter on the stanchion.

The possibility of disassembly allows the replacement of wearing parts (coulter, tip, fin, protection plate) when they are worn. Therefore, only the worn part is replaced, which allows substantial savings for the user.

In particular, one or more screws, one or more bolts or one or more pins may be used. The fixing of the cracking tool to the prop is preferably done by means of longitudinal screws and/or longitudinal bolts, more preferably exclusively by means of longitudinal bolts. By "longitudinal screw" or "longitudinal bolt" is meant that the screw or bolt extend(s) in the median longitudinal plane of the cracking device.

Fixing by means of screws, bolts or cross pins is also possible, as illustrated in the .

Coulter

The coulter 20 conventionally has a plurality of plates defining the leading edge of the cracking tool 18. These plates are made of a particularly rigid material, for example tungsten carbide. Instead of the plates or in combination with the plates, the leading edge of the coulter 20 may be made of an anti-abrasion material, in particular boron carbide or chromium carbide, the anti-abrasion material being deposited by welding, arc-plasma or any other deposition process.

The coulter 20 can be fixed on a coulter support 27, in a removable manner, the coulter support itself being fixed to the prop. Alternatively, the coulter 20 can be fixed directly on the prop, in a removable manner, for example screwed onto the prop, preferably by means of bolt(s) 39 or screws extending in the median longitudinal plane. A fixing by means of longitudinal bolts provides compactness, limits the leverage effect in service, and increases the contact surface of these bolts with the prop, which reduces the risks of mauling and improves robustness.

In one embodiment, as illustrated in the , the coulter support 27 and the adapter for fixing the fin constitute a single part.

The coulter support 27 may in particular be made of a high elastic limit steel, or “HLE”. The coulter support 27 may include anti-abrasion welds, in particular of boron carbide or chromium carbide.

Preferably, the coulter or coulter support has two side cheeks 31 (see ) which preferably extend from the leading edge of the coulter, rearward, on each side of the stanchion. The side cheeks 31 thus protect the stanchion in service. Preferably, the coulter or coulter support 27 forms a housing for receiving the stanchion, or “sock”.

In one embodiment, neither the coulter nor the coulter support 27 has side cheeks.

Tip

Preferably, the cracking tool comprises a coulter support 27 and, under the coulter support 27, a cracking tip 28. This tip 28 comprises a head 32 intended to form a leading edge of the cracking tool and a tip shank 34. The leading edge of the head may in particular be provided with plates of very resistant material such as tungsten carbide or anti-abrasion metal such as boron carbide or chromium carbide. The latter may be deposited by any deposition process, in particular by welding.

The tip 28 is removably mounted on the coulter 20 or, preferably, on the coulter support 27. The coulter 20 and/or the coulter support 27 may in particular define a sheath for receiving the tip 28.

Protective plate

In one embodiment, the device comprises a side protection plate 29 fixed, in a removable manner, on the prop ( ). Preferably, the device comprises right and left side protection plates fixed on the right and left flanks of the prop, respectively.

Adapter

In a preferred embodiment ( ), the fin is not fixed directly to the stanchion. Preferably, the device comprises an adapter 30, fixed, in a removable manner, to the stanchion, preferably by means of screws, bolts or longitudinal pins, and the fin is fixed to the adapter 30.

Preferably, the adapter is attached to the stanchion on the side opposite the coulter, the adapter and coulter thus sandwiching the stanchion ( ). Preferably, the adapter 30 has a surface in contact with the stanchion whose area is greater than 10 cm ² , preferably greater than 20 cm ² , preferably greater than 40 cm ² , preferably greater than 50 cm ² , and/or preferably greater than 200 cm ² . The high area of this contact surface improves the stability of the adapter in service.

Spoiler

The fin 26 comprises one or more fins 36 intended to split the earth on each side of the slot created by the coulter. Its span L ₂₆ is preferably greater than 10 cm, preferably greater than 15 cm, preferably greater than 20 cm and/or less than 40 cm, preferably less than 30 cm, preferably less than 25 cm.

The fin 26 may be attached to the stanchion, to the coulter, to the point, to the coulter support, to a protective plate or, preferably, to the adapter 30 for connecting to the stanchion. Generically, the part on which the fin is attached is referred to as a “fin support”.

Preferably, the fin 26 comprises two fins 36 and a junction 38, interposed between the fins, and by which the fin is fixed to the fin support. The fins are preferably welded to the junction or made of the same material as the junction. The fins are preferably identical and extend on each side of the junction.

The junction 38 is configured such that, in the service configuration, the two fins 36 extend on each side of the strut 16, symmetrically with respect to the median longitudinal plane Pm. The junction 38 may in particular be constituted by an assembly of several plates. In particular, it may comprise horizontal upper and lower plates assembled to vertical side plates, as shown in FIG. .

The plane of a fin, preferably each fin, may be inclined upwards or downwards, thereby enabling, respectively, the earth to be pushed upwards or downwards. The angle formed between the plane of the fin and a horizontal plane is preferably less than 20°, preferably less than 10°, preferably less than 5°. Preferably, the fins are arranged to extend horizontally in the service configuration.

Preferably, the fins are coplanar and extend in a common fin plane. In the service configuration, the fin plane is preferably horizontal, thereby stabilizing the height of the cracking tool in service.

All conventional fin dimensions are possible. Preferably, each fin extends laterally more than 5 cm, preferably more than 10 cm and/or less than 30 cm, preferably less than 20 cm from the median longitudinal plane. The length of a fin L ₃₆ , measured along its axis D ₃₆ , is preferably more than 5 cm, preferably more than 10 cm, preferably more than 15 cm and/or less than 40 cm or less than 30 cm. The width of a fin, measured perpendicular to its axis D ₃₆ , is preferably between 3 cm and 10 cm. It is preferably constant. Preferably, each fin has an upper surface having an area greater than 10 cm ² , preferably greater than 20 cm ² and/or less than 150 cm ² . The width of a fin, measured perpendicular to its axis, is preferably between 3 cm and 10 cm. It is preferably constant. Each fin is preferably flat. The thickness of a fin, preferably of each fin, measured perpendicular to the plane of the fin, is preferably greater than 5 mm and less than 2 cm.

When viewed from above, the fins 36 preferably form a chevron, as illustrated in the .

In the embodiment of the , the fin points forward. Each fin extends along an axis D ₃₆ which, in the service configuration, forms an angle α greater than 110°, preferably greater than 120° and/or less than 160°, preferably less than 150°, with the median longitudinal plane Pm.

In the embodiment of the , the fin points rearward. Each fin extends along an axis D ₃₆ which, in the service configuration, forms an angle α greater than 20°, preferably greater than 30° and/or less than 70°, preferably less than 60°, with the median longitudinal plane Pm.

In the embodiment, the fin is rectilinear. The fins are aligned along a common axis D ₃₆ which, in the service configuration, preferably forms an angle α of 90° with the median longitudinal plane Pm. Cracking is thereby improved.

The fins may extend below or above the point, and/or below or above the coulter.

In one embodiment, the fins are vertically spaced from the coulter or tip by more than 1 cm and/or less than 10 cm, preferably less than 5 cm.

Preferably, they are above the coulter, which improves the flatness of the ground after the cracking tool has passed.

In one embodiment, the two fins are connected to each other by a junction 38 which extends in the extension of the fins, preferably in a fin plane common to the two fins. In particular, they can form, with the junction 38, a single-piece part, preferably cut from a metal sheet. The manufacturing cost of the fin is advantageously considerably reduced.

In one embodiment, the two fins are connected to each other by a junction 38 which defines a housing in which a portion of the fin support is arranged. The retention in position of the fin is advantageously improved.

The fin 26 is preferably a single piece, the fins being non-removable.

Preferably, the fin support comprises a protrusion, or “fin carrier” 40, which projects rearwardly along a fin carrier axis Y, and the fin is fixed to said fin carrier.

The fin holder preferably has the form of one or more elongated bars and/or plates.

The fin carrier axis preferably belongs to the median longitudinal plane. It is preferably in the fin plane. It forms with a horizontal plane an angle preferably less than 30°, preferably less than 20°, preferably less than 10°, preferably substantially zero.

The fin carrier preferably has a profiled shape, i.e. a constant section along the entire fin carrier axis Y.

The shapes of the aileron 26 and the aileron carrier 40 are preferably determined to, in the service configuration, block a rotational movement of the aileron about the aileron carrier axis Y and/or block a vertical movement of the aileron upwards or downwards. Preferably, the aileron carrier defines an upper stop 41s and/or a lower stop 41i preventing the movement of the aileron upwards and/or downwards, respectively. Preferably, the aileron carrier further defines a right stop and/or a left stop preventing the movement of the aileron to the right and/or to the left of the aileron carrier, respectively. Preferably, at least one of said stops, preferably each said stop defines a stop surface having an area greater than 1 cm ² , preferably greater than 5 cm ² , preferably greater than 10 cm ² , preferably greater than 20 cm ² , preferably greater than 25 cm ² and/or less than 50 cm ² .

Preferably, the junction 38 defines a housing 42 into which the fin holder can be introduced. In one embodiment, the fin holder has the shape of a bar, solid or hollow, preferably of polygonal cross-section (defined perpendicular to the fin holder axis Y), preferably square or rectangular, and the junction 38 defines a sheath of a shape complementary to that of said cross-section of the bar. The mounting of the fin thus involves sliding of the junction on the bar, exclusively along the fin holder axis Y ( ). The junction 38 can completely surround the fin holder ( ), or partially ( ). In embodiment (a) of the , it can be observed in particular that the junction does not have a lower wall, the fin can thus be placed on the fin holder and thus be blocked laterally and upwards.

In one embodiment, the fin holder has the shape of two elongated flat plates between which the junction of a fin can be introduced. The junction 38 of the fin preferably has the shape of a plate whose thickness is substantially equal to the spacing between the two plates. The assembly of the fin thus involves a sliding of the junction between the plates, the plates serving as upper and lower stops imposing, during assembly or disassembly of the fin, a movement of the junction exclusively in the median plane between the two plates.

More preferably, the junction of the fin and the fin support, preferably a fin holder of the fin support, are pierced by respective orifices which, during assembly, can be placed opposite each other, that is to say aligned along an axis Z, so that a locking rod 44, preferably a screw or a pin, preferably a pin, can be introduced therein, so as to immobilize the fin on the fin support.

In the service configuration, the Z axis forms, with a vertical plane, an angle of less than 15°, preferably less than 10°, preferably less than 5°. The Z axis is preferably substantially vertical. Assembly and disassembly are advantageously particularly simple.

In particular, the fin support may be an adapter comprising a base fixed to the stanchion, the coulter or the coulter support, and one, preferably several fin holders, preferably horizontal, fixed to the base, preferably non-removable, for example welded to the base.

Preferably, the fin support comprises several fin holders, referenced 40 ₁ and 40 ₂ on the , allowing the fin to be fixed at different heights. The height difference, or “vertical distance”, between two adjacent fin holders is preferably greater than 2 cm, preferably greater than 5 cm, preferably greater than 10 cm and/or less than 30 cm, preferably less than 20 cm.

In service, the fin is pulled, that is to say pulled forward, preferably by a locking rod 44, itself pulled by the fin support.

The tensile forces are exerted in contact areas between the fin and the “traction part”, for example the locking rod. These forces are equivalent to a tensile force F in the value is equal to the sum of the tensile forces, exerted at a traction point T. The traction point is determined so that the moment of force exerted by the traction force on the fin is identical to that of all the tensile forces.

The traction point T is in front of the center of inertia G of the fin, at the same height or at a different height.

The longitudinal distance d _L between the traction point T and the center of inertia G of the fin is preferably greater than 1 cm, preferably greater than 5 cm, preferably greater than 10 cm and/or preferably less than 20 cm, preferably less than 15 cm.

Positioning the centre of inertia behind and at a distance from the traction point stabilises the trajectory of the fin and thus limits the forces exerted on the locking rod during operation. The risk of damage, for example deformation of the locking rod, is reduced. The fin thus remains easily removable, even after prolonged use of the cracking device.

The center of inertia of the fin can be at a height greater than, the same as, or less than the height of the towing point.

Preferably, the traction point T is at a height (distance upwards, from the ground) greater than that of the center of inertia G. The vertical distance d _V between the traction point T and the center of inertia G of the fin is preferably greater than 1 cm and less than 10 cm.

The traction point T is preferably behind the stanchion. The longitudinal distance d _{1 6} between the traction point T and the stanchion 16, measured at the height of the traction point T (see ) is preferably greater than 1 cm, preferably greater than 5 cm, preferably greater than 10 cm and/or preferably less than 20 cm, preferably less than 15 cm. Advantageously, the fin is thus towed through soil which has already been at least partially loosened by the passage of the coulter and the prop, which reduces energy consumption.

The longitudinal distance between the center of inertia G of the fin and the strut 16, measured at the height of the center of inertia G, is preferably greater than 5 cm, preferably greater than 10 cm, preferably greater than 12 cm and/or preferably less than 25 cm, preferably less than 20 cm.

Fourth main aspect

The fourth main aspect of the invention is illustrated in particular in Figures 4, 5 and 6.

According to the fourth main aspect of the invention, the coulter 20 or the adapter 30 (for the case where the device comprises an adapter) defines a housing 50 for receiving the prop 16, of generally tubular shape, rectilinear or curved, complementary to that of the prop.

The “tubular” shape of the housing 50 means that the contour which delimits the housing in a cross-section is constant when the transverse plane of the section moves along the main axis of the housing, that is to say along “the axis of the tubular chamber defined by the housing 50”. By “transverse plane” is meant here a plane perpendicular to the main axis of the housing.

The cross-section of the housing 50, i.e. perpendicular to the axis of the tubular chamber defined by the housing 50, is substantially identical to, but slightly larger than, the cross-section of the lower end of the stanchion (i.e. the section of the stanchion in a plane perpendicular to the direction of the length of the lower end of the stanchion), such that the stanchion is constrained to slide in the housing when mounting the coulter 20 or the adapter 30.

The complementary shape of the housing 50 thus facilitates the assembly of the coulter or the adapter.

The stanchion housed in the receiving housing is advantageously not compressed, which limits the risk of difficulty when dismantling the coulter or the adapter.

To immobilize the coulter or the adapter on the prop after its introduction into the housing, it is advantageously sufficient to block its sliding, for example by means of at least one locking rod 52, preferably by means of at least one screw, at least one bolt or at least one pin, for example longitudinal or transverse.

The maintenance resulting from the complementarity of shape between the stanchion and the housing advantageously makes it possible to use only a single locking rod 52.

The coulter or adapter advantageously includes not only side protection plates 54c, or “side cheeks,” as described in PCT/IB2014/064317, but also a rear protection plate 54b extending against the rear face 16b of the shank and a front protection plate 54f extending against the front face 16f of the shank. The rear protection plate protects the shank, but also helps to maintain the coulter in position on the shank, without compressing the shank.

In one embodiment, the protective plate 54f has an excess length, above the tubular housing, i.e. extends above the housing. The excess length bears on the stanchion, preferably matches the shape of the stanchion, to improve the absorption of forces and the maintenance in position.

Preferably, the housing 50 for receiving the prop is delimited by a rear protection plate, two side protection plates and a front protection plate welded to each other so as to define a sheath of section substantially identical to the cross section of the prop, preferably of rectangular or square section.

In a particularly advantageous embodiment illustrated in the or 6, the cracking device comprises one or more longitudinal screws which pass through the rear protection plate and penetrate the stanchion. Preferably, the cracking device comprises one or more longitudinal screws which successively pass through the rear protection plate, the stanchion and the front protection plate, a nut being screwed onto each screw, bearing on the rear protection plate or on the front protection plate depending on the orientation of the screw. The nut preferably bears on the front protection plate, and therefore the head of the screw bears on the rear protection plate, because it is easier to introduce the screw through the rear protection plate.

A fastening using longitudinal bolts (a bolt consisting of a longitudinal screw and a nut) is particularly advantageous.

First of all, it allows for great compactness. Improving the compactness of the device makes it possible to limit the leverage effect it creates when it is towed. This represents an improvement in safety for the user.

In addition, the implementation of longitudinal bolts extending longitudinally in the prop, makes it possible to increase the contact surface of these bolts with the prop. This reduces the risk of mauling, shearing is reduced. The cracking device is thus more robust.

In a preferred embodiment illustrated in , the rod 52 for locking the prop is a bolt comprising:
- a screw having a head 56 resting on the rear protection plate and passing through the rear protection plate 54b, the stanchion 16 and the front protection plate 54f, and
- a 58 nut screwed onto the screw and resting on the front protection plate.

The nut 58 is housed in a through hole 60, preferably transverse, made through the coulter. The nut is advantageously protected, while being easily accessible for disassembly. The prop is not compressed, while being perfectly immobilized.

Preferably, the head 56 of the screw does not protrude from the rear protection plate 54b, as shown in the . It is thus protected, which facilitates disassembly after use of the cracking device.

In one embodiment, through holes are provided in the front guard plate and/or the rear guard plate such that a screw head and/or nut engages the stanchion to compress the coulter against the stanchion. In a preferred embodiment illustrated in FIG. (A4), the head 56 of a screw, preferably of each screw, bears, through a through hole 57 provided through the rear protection plate, on the stanchion and the corresponding nut 58 bears on the front protection plate. In another embodiment, the head 56 of a screw, preferably of each screw, bears on the rear protection plate and the corresponding nut 58 bears, through a through hole provided through the front protection plate, on the stanchion. In one embodiment, the head 56 of a screw, preferably of each screw, bears, through a through hole provided through the front protection plate, on the stanchion and the corresponding nut 58 bears on the rear protection plate. In another embodiment, the head 56 of a screw, preferably of each screw, bears on the front protection plate and the corresponding nut 58 bears, through a through hole provided through the rear protection plate, on the stanchion.

The presence of a fin in the fourth main aspect of the invention is preferred, but optional. Preferably, a fin holder is fixed, preferably by welding, to the coulter, preferably to the rear protection plate 54b.

Examples

The figures represent different examples according to the invention. These examples are provided for illustrative and non-limiting purposes.

In the embodiment of the , the fin is fixed on the cracking tip. In particular, the junction defines a housing for the tip rod, preferably of substantially identical cross-section to that of the tip rod. Preferably, a pin passes through, preferably vertically, the fin and the tip, so as to secure the fin and the tip. The pin may pass only through the upper wall defining the housing for the tip. It may pass through the tip or be housed in a blind hole provided in the tip. Preferably, it passes through the upper wall defining said housing, passes through the tip and is housed in a blind or through hole provided in the lower wall defining said housing.

In the embodiment of the , the coulter 20 is fixed directly to the stanchion 16, which has a pigtail. The fin is fixed to an adapter 30 provided with a fin holder (embodiment (a) at the bottom left), or with two fin holders at different heights (embodiments (b), (c) and (d)). The fin holder has the shape of a horizontal bar, housed in a housing defined by the junction 38 of the fin 26 (embodiments (a) and (b)), or the shape of two horizontal parallel plates between which the junction, in the form of a flat plate, is housed (embodiments (c) and (d)). These two methods of fixing the fin are also illustrated in the (embodiments (B1, B2) and (A1, A2) respectively). Each time, the fin 26 is locked in position by means of a vertical locking rod 44. Preferably, the locking rod passes through a first orifice provided through the fin holder, passes through the fin holder, and is housed in a second blind or through orifice provided in the fin holder, on the side of the fin holder opposite the side of the first orifice.

Embodiments (c) and (d) differ from each other in the means of fixing the adapter to the stanchion.

In the embodiment of the , the C-shaped prop is protected by two side protection plates 29 which together support a fin carrier 40. The fin carrier 40 has the form of first and second vertical parallel plates between which the fin junction (not shown), in the form of a vertical plate, is housed. The fin 26 is locked in position by means of a horizontal locking rod which passes through first and second through-holes provided in the first and second plates, as well as a through-hole in the fin junction.

The two side protection plates 29 can be rigidly connected to each other by a front protection plate, as in the . The front protection plate is however optional (see ).

In the embodiment of the , the adapter 30 is fixed to the stanchion by means of longitudinal bolts 39, the nuts being arranged in housings provided in the coulter 20. The representation (A1) shows that the fin 26 has a flat shape, of constant thickness, substantially equal to the spacing between the two horizontal plates of the fin holder 40.

Of course, the invention is not limited to the examples described and shown, provided as illustrative and non-limiting examples.

In particular, the different examples described above can be combined.

Furthermore, the aileron holder described above belongs to the aileron support and has the function of separating the aileron from the prop, behind the prop. This separation can be, in an equivalent manner, ensured by an outgrowth of the junction of the aileron, towards the front of the aileron, or “spacer”, the spacer being fixed, in a removable manner, to the aileron support. This embodiment advantageously makes it possible to fix the aileron at different heights, without multiplying the aileron holders on the aileron support.

Claims (9)

Cracking device intended to be towed, in a direction of advance (A), by an agricultural machine so as to crack a soil, said device comprising
- a prop (16), and
- a coulter (20), and
- optionally a fin (26),
the coulter and the optional fin being fixed on the prop, directly or not, in a removable manner independently of each other,
characterized in that the coulter defines a tubular housing (50) for receiving the prop of a shape complementary to that of the prop (16). Device according to the immediately preceding claim, in which the coulter comprises a rear protection plate (54b), two side protection plates (54c) and a front protection plate (54f) together defining a sheath of section substantially identical to the cross section of the section of the prop housed therein. Device according to the immediately preceding claim, comprising a locking rod (52) for locking the strut in the sheath, said locking rod extending in a median longitudinal plane (Pm) of the device. Device according to the immediately preceding claim, in which the locking rod of the prop is a bolt comprising:
- a screw having a head (56) and passing through the rear protection plate, the stanchion and the front protection plate,
- a nut (58) screwed onto the screw,
a) the head (56) being supported on the rear protection plate and the nut (58) being supported on the front protection plate, or
(b) the head (56) being supported, through a through hole provided through the rear protection plate, on the stanchion and the nut (58) being supported on the front protection plate, or
(c) the head (56) being supported on the rear protection plate and the nut (58) being supported, through a through hole provided through the front protection plate, on the stanchion, or
(d) the head (56) being supported, through a through hole provided through the front protection plate, on the stanchion and the nut (58) being supported on the rear protection plate, or
e) the head (56) being supported on the front protection plate and the nut (58) being supported, through a through hole provided through the rear protection plate, on the stanchion. Device according to the immediately preceding claim, in which the nut (58) is housed in a hole, preferably through (60), preferably transverse, formed through the coulter. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a said fin (26) fixed so as to be towed in service,
the longitudinal distance (d _L ) between the traction point (T) and the centre of inertia (G) of the fin, measured in the direction of advance, being greater than 5 cm and/or
the longitudinal distance (d ₁₆ ) between the traction point (T) and the stanchion (16), measured at the height of the traction point (T) being greater than 1 cm. Device according to the immediately preceding claim, in which the fin has, seen from above, the shape of a chevron pointing towards the rear. Device according to any one of the two immediately preceding claims, in which the coulter comprises an elongated protrusion of axis Y, extending towards the rear of the coulter, called “fin holder” (40), in the form of one or more elongated bars and/or plates, on which the fin is fixed, in a removable manner. Apparatus for cracking soil, in particular a cultivator or subsoiler or a cultivator or seeder, comprising more than 3 cracking devices according to any one of the preceding claims, all fixed to a common chassis adapted to be towed by agricultural machinery.