Abstract:
An improved particulate metering system is provided. The system includes a flow path having an inlet in communication with an intake and an outlet in communication with a discharge. The flow path receives a first input and a plurality of inputs, each of the plurality of inputs having a separate origin. A mixing area within the flow path comprises a confluence of the first input and one or more of the plurality of inputs. One or more metering controls are in operable communication with the first input and the plurality of inputs for controlling a blend of the plurality of inputs at the confluence.

Description:
BACKGROUND 
       [0001]    I. Field of the Disclosure 
         [0002]    A metering system for solid particulate is disclosed. More specifically, but not exclusively, a metering system with variable blend and variable application rate controls for particulate matter, such as dry fertilizers, is disclosed. 
         [0003]    II. Description of the Prior Art 
         [0004]    Particulate metering systems use varied approaches to control the rate at which particulate is metered and/or blended with other particulate types. Particulate metering is complicated by the desire to simultaneously meter at separate discharge points varying rates and blends of different particulate. In such instances where the particulate is fertilizer, there&#39;s a significant interest in controlling the blend and application rate of two or more fertilizers, and specifically controlling a variation in the blend and application rate of two or more fertilizers at separate discharge points, such as at separate rows in a field. Further complications surround the growing desire to independently control variations in both the blend and application rate of particulate for each separate discharge point or a set of discharge points. Many desire to control the blend and application rate of two or more fertilizers independently at each row unit. In other words, what is desired in at least one application is a dry fertilizer metering system that can make adjustments to both the application rate and blend of two or more fertilizers on a row-by-row basis—one row receiving a blend of fertilizers at a desired rate while another row simultaneously receives the same or a separate blend of fertilizers at the same or another desired rate. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0005]    The present disclosure provides a particulate metering system with variable blend and variable application rate controls for separate discharges or a group of discharges. 
         [0006]    A particulate metering system includes a flow path having an inlet in communication with an intake and an outlet in communication with a discharge. A first input into the flow path is provided. A plurality of inputs is in communication with the flow path—each of the plurality of inputs has a separate origin. A mixing area within the flow path is a confluence of the first input and one or more of the plurality of inputs. One or more metering controls are in operable communication with the first input and the plurality of inputs for controlling a ratio of the plurality of inputs at the confluence. 
         [0007]    The particulate metering system can include a plurality of outputs at the discharge. The outputs are in communication with the first input by the flow path. The first input has a metered proportion across the outputs. 
         [0008]    The particulate metering system can include a rate controller. The rate controller is in operable control of the one or more metering controls and controls the introduction rate of the plurality of inputs into the confluence. 
         [0009]    According to another aspect of the disclosure, the particulate metering system includes a flow path having an inlet with an intake, an outlet with a plurality of discharges, a plurality of air inputs fluidly connected to the plurality of discharges, and an air-particulate output. Two or more particulate sources are provided. The particulate metering system includes a plurality of particulate inputs in communication with the flow path. Each of the particulate inputs has a separate origin. A particulate-air mixing area is within the flow path and comprises a confluence of one of the air inputs and one or more of the particulate inputs. Operated conveyances can be in communication with the two or more particulate sources and the particulate-air confluence, each operated conveyance having separate discharges. 
         [0010]    One or more metering controls can be in operable communication with the air input and the particulate inputs for controlling a blend of the plurality of inputs at the confluence. A plurality of conveyance speeds can be associated with the operated conveyances. The two or more particulate sources are operatively connected to the plurality of particulate inputs and the one or more metering controls. 
         [0011]    According to yet another aspect of the disclosure, an air flow origin is provided. 
         [0012]    The particulate metering system includes a plurality of particulate accelerators, a plurality of air-particulate interfaces, a mixing area, and an air-particulate output. Each of the particulate accelerators has an air input. The system includes a plurality of particulate sources associated with each of the particulate accelerators. Each of the particulate sources has a terminal discharge end at each of the air-particulate interfaces. The air input of each of the particulate accelerators receives an air flow from the air flow origin. Each of the particulate accelerators receives particulate from the particulate sources across the air-particulate interfaces. A confluence of the air flow and the particulate occurs in the mixing area of each of the particulate accelerators. A plurality of discharges is provided. Each of the discharges is associated with the air-particulate output of each of the plurality of particulate accelerators. 
         [0013]    The metering system can include a plurality of operated conveyances in communication with each of the plurality of particulate accelerators. Each of the operated conveyances can be associated with one of the air-particulate interfaces. A plurality of metering controls can be provided. The metering controls can be in operative communication with the particulate sources and the operative conveyances. The plurality of metering controls can control the amount of one or more types of particulate metered across the air-particulate interfaces. 
         [0014]    The metering system can include a first subset of the plurality of particulate accelerators and a first subset of the plurality of discharges in fluid connection with the first subset of the plurality of particulate accelerators. A first mass flow rate can correspond generally with the particulate-air confluence at the first subset of the plurality of discharges. The system can include a second subset of the plurality of particulate accelerators and a second subset of the plurality of discharges in fluid connection with the second subset of the plurality of particulate accelerators. A second mass flow rate can correspond generally with the particulate-air confluence at the second subset of the plurality of discharges. The first mass flow rate and the second mass flow rate can be unequal. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0015]    Illustrated embodiments of the disclosure are described in detail below with reference to the attached drawing figures, which are incorporated by reference herein, and where: 
           [0016]      FIG. 1A  is a front perspective view of a particulate metering implement in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
           [0017]      FIG. 1B  is a rear perspective view of a particulate metering implement in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
           [0018]      FIG. 1C  is a front perspective view of a base frame assembly in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
           [0019]      FIG. 1D  is a front perspective view of an intermediate frame assembly in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
           [0020]      FIG. 2  is a cross-section view of the particulate metering implement of  FIG. 1B  taken along section line  2 - 2 ; 
           [0021]      FIG. 3A  is a front perspective view of a particulate container system in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
           [0022]      FIG. 3B  is a front perspective view of a particulate container system in accordance with another illustrative embodiment; 
           [0023]      FIG. 4  is a cross-section view of the particulate container system of  FIG. 3A  taken along section line  4 - 4 ; 
           [0024]      FIG. 5  is a cross-section view of the particulate container system of  FIG. 3A  taken along section line  5 - 5 ; 
           [0025]      FIG. 6A  is a front perspective view of a portion of a particulate handling system in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
           [0026]      FIG. 6B  is a front perspective view of the particulate handling system at various stages of installation in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
           [0027]      FIG. 7  is a bottom perspective view of a particulate container in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
           [0028]      FIG. 8  is an isometric view of a bottom tray of a particulate container in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
           [0029]      FIG. 9  is a cross-section view of the bottom tray of  FIG. 8  taken along section line  9 - 9 ; 
           [0030]      FIG. 10A  is a bottom perspective view of a particulate container system in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
           [0031]      FIG. 10B  is a top plan view of a particulate container system in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
           [0032]      FIG. 11A  is a front perspective view of a long auger tube in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
           [0033]      FIG. 11B  is a top plan view of a long auger tube in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
           [0034]      FIG. 11C  is a side elevation view of a long auger tube in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
           [0035]      FIG. 12A  is a front perspective view of a particulate accelerator and particulate handling systems in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
           [0036]      FIG. 12B  is a top plan view of a particulate accelerator and particulate handling systems in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
           [0037]      FIG. 13  is a cross-sectional view of the particulate accelerator and partial particulate handling systems of  FIG. 12B  taken along section line  13 - 13 . 
           [0038]      FIG. 14  is a front elevation view of an air production system, air handling system and particulate accelerator system in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
           [0039]      FIG. 15A  is a front perspective view of an air production system, air handling system and particulate accelerator system in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
           [0040]      FIG. 15B  is a side elevation view of an air production system, air handling system and particulate accelerator system in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
           [0041]      FIG. 16  is an isometric view of an expander in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
           [0042]      FIG. 17  is a bottom perspective view of an air production system and an air handling system in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
           [0043]      FIG. 18  is an exploded isometric view of a plenum and a plenum cover in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
           [0044]      FIG. 19A  is a front perspective of a particulate accelerator in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
           [0045]      FIG. 19B  is a side elevation view of a particulate accelerator in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
           [0046]      FIG. 20  is a rear perspective view of a particulate accelerator in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
           [0047]      FIG. 21  is a cross-sectional view of the particulate accelerator of  FIG. 20  taken along section line  21 - 21 . 
           [0048]      FIG. 22  is a front perspective view of an air production system, an air handling system, a particulate accelerator system, and a particulate handling system in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
           [0049]      FIG. 23  is a bottom plan view of an air production system, an air handling system, a particulate accelerator system, and a partial particulate handling system in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
           [0050]      FIG. 24  is a isometric view of a portion of a dual particulate accelerator system in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; and 
           [0051]      FIG. 25  is a side elevation view of a portion of a dual particulate accelerator system in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0052]      FIGS. 1A and 1B  show a particulate metering implement  10 . While the figure shows a particulate metering implement, it should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the disclosure covers other types of implements, including but not limited to, seed meters, nutrient applicators, and other agricultural equipment. The implement  10  can be a towable trailer, as shown, or integrally formed with a particulate application system. As shown in conjunction with  FIG. 2 , the implement can include a frame assembly  100 , particulate container assembly  200 , particulate handling system  300 , and air production system  400 , air handling system  500 , and particulate accelerator system  600 . 
         [0053]    Referring to  FIGS. 1C and 1D , a base frame assembly  101  is provided. The base frame assembly  101  can include a plurality of wheels  102  to permit transportation of the implement  10 . The implement  10  can be transported through other means commonly known in the art, including but not limited to, a tracking system, sled rails, spheres, or the like. The wheels  102  can be connected to a transverse base support member  104 . The transverse base support member  104 , together with two rear longitudinal base support members  106 , can provide the primary support for intermediate frame assembly  119 . Extending anteriorly from the transverse base support member  104  can be two front longitudinal base support members  108 . The two front longitudinal base support members  108  can be shaped to not only connect to the base frame assembly  101  below the intermediate frame assembly  119 , but also be connectable at a typical mounting height. The front longitudinal base support members  108  can be movably connected to coupling members  110 . To support the implement  10  when not in use, vertical support members  114  can be adjustably lowered. The vertical support members  114  can be locked into position using a detent structure, transverse locking pin, or any means commonly known in the art. The implement  10  can be connected to a tractor, but the prevent disclosure contemplates additional operational environments, including but not limited to agricultural toolbars, trailers, other farm implements, and the like. 
         [0054]    The intermediate frame assembly  119  can be mounted upon the base frame assembly  101 . In particular, longitudinal intermediate support members  116  can be connected to rear longitudinal base support members  106 . The longitudinal intermediate support members  116  can be generally U-shaped to elevate the particulate container (e.g., hopper) assembly  200  above the superior aspect of the wheels  102 . The configuration can result in a front transverse intermediate support member  118  and a rear transverse intermediate support member  120  extending outwardly above the superior aspect of the wheels  102 . The particulate container assembly  200  can be mounted on the front transverse intermediate support member  118  and a rear transverse intermediate support member  120 . To provide additional support to the front transverse intermediate support member  118  and the rear transverse intermediate support member  120 , a plurality of braces  122  can be provided. The braces  122  can create a truss-like structure between the longitudinal intermediate support members  116  and the transverse intermediate support members; however, the disclosure contemplates providing reinforcement through any means commonly known in the art. 
         [0055]    As shown in  FIG. 1B , the particulate container assembly  200  can be mounted on the frame assembly  100 , and more particularly, the intermediate frame assembly  119 . The particulate container assembly  200  can consist of two particulate containers  202  and  203 . The disclosure envisions any number of particulate containers (e.g., hoppers) can be used. In an embodiment, the particulate containers  202  and  203  can be identical in structure and function, and symmetrical across Section 2-2 of  FIG. 1B . In other embodiments, the one or more of the particulate containers can be modified without deviating from the objects of the disclosure. Hereinafter, discussion of particulate container  202  refers to particulate container  202  and its counterpart structure on particulate container  203 . 
         [0056]    Referring to  FIGS. 3A, 3B and 4 , the particulate container  202  can include an upper portion  205 , middle portion  208  and lower portion  210 . The upper portion  205  can be a rectangular prism. The disclosure contemplates any shape that maximizes volume and/or permits the storage to extend above the wheels  102 . A top surface of the upper portion  205  can include openings (not shown) covered by one or more lids  204 . The lids  204  can be opened or removed to permit loading of particulate into the particulate container  202 . The middle portion  208  can be a trapezium prism. The shape can assist in funneling the particulate to the lower portion  210 . The transition from the upper portion  205  to the middle portion  208  can be generally demarcated by frame members  206  disposed around the perimeter of the middle portion  208  of the particulate container  202 . The frame members  206  can have attachment means  212  to connect the particular container assembly  200  to the frame assembly  100 , and more particularly, intermediate frame assembly  119 . As shown in  FIG. 5 , the particulate container  202  can have a recessed area  216  on the side wall proximate to opposing particulate container  203 . The recessed area  216  can prevent frame member  206  from extending past the plane of the side wall, which maximizes the volume of the particulate container  202  while minimizing the space required between the two particulate containers  202  and  203 . For additional structural support, a plurality of internal support rods  214  ( FIG. 4 ) can be provided within the interior of the particulate container  202 . 
         [0057]    In an embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 3B , the one or more lids  204  can be pivotally connected to the particulate container  202  with one or more hinges  207 . One or more clamps  209  can be mounted on the particulate container  202  proximate the opposing edge of the lids  204  to releasably secure the lids to the containers. To assist in opening the lids  204 , a handle  211  can be connected to the lids  204  proximate to the clamps  209 . Upon opening and/or removal of the lids  204 , one or more screens (not shown) can be disposed within the openings of the particulate container  202  to prevent debris from entering the same. 
         [0058]    Further, the clamps  209  can provide an airtight seal between the lids  204  and the particulate container  202 . In such an embodiment, the airtight seal can permit the particulate container  202  to be pressurized. In one representative example, the particulate container  202  can be pressurized to ten, fifteen, twenty or greater inches of water (in H 2 0). The pressurization can assist in guiding the particulate to the particulate handling system  300 , provide for improved control of quantities dispensed to the particulate handling system  300 , and/or provide for improved control of the environment in which the particulate is housed. 
         [0059]    The lower portion  210  and the middle portion  208  of particulate container  202  can be separated by joining flanges  218 , as shown illustratively in  FIGS. 3A and 6A . The joining flanges  218  can include material extending from the lower portion  210  and the middle portion  208 , which are then joined by welding or any means commonly known in the art. The lower portion  210  can be a trapezium prism to assist in funneling the particulate to the particulate handling system  300 . 
         [0060]    The particulate container  202  can include a bottom tray  328 . As shown in  FIGS. 8 and 9 , the bottom tray  328  can include a plurality of gates  308  arranged along the length of the tray  328 . The gates can be square and/or rectangular, as shown, or can be of any shape to permit particulate to enter the particulate delivery system  300 . Similarly, the gates can all be the same shape and/or size, or of varied shapes and/or sizes based on the application. The interstitial portions of the bottom tray  328  can be flat, as shown, or can have a wedged-shape configuration to funnel particulate to the plurality of gates  308 . The bottom tray  328  can be integrally connected to the bottom portion  210  of the particulate container  202 , or can be removable to permit a user to quickly install a different bottom tray  328  based on the application. The plurality of gates  308  can further include smaller gates  324  and larger gates  326  separated by a raised portion  330 . The raised portion  330  can funnel the particulate into the smaller gates  324  and the larger gates  326  and/or add structural support along the length of the bottom tray  328 . Separating the particulate into a pair of gates (smaller gate  324  and larger gate  326 ) can minimize undesirable torqueing of the augers  332  ( FIGS. 11A and 12B ) and/or the auger motor(s)  344  ( FIGS. 22 and 23 ), particularly during initialization of the particulate handling system  300 . 
         [0061]    One or more scales (not shown) can be associated with each of the particulate containers  202  and  203  ( FIG. 4 ). The scales can be operatively connected to a control system and configured to weigh each of the particulate containers  202  and  203 . Together with one or more sensors associated with one or more transmissions  306  discussed below, the system can provide real-time and/or post-operation feedback of the expected volume of particulate dispensed versus actual volume of particulate dispensed for each unit row of the field and/or for the overall particulate metering implement  10 . In an embodiment utilizing real-time feedback, the control system can make adjustments based on the data provided. Further, the data can be used by the control system to diagnose dysfunctional augers  332  and/or auger motor(s)  344 , and/or identify potential blockages of particulate within the particulate metering implement  10 . 
         [0062]    A plurality of moveable and/or controllable gate covers (not shown) can be installed on the plurality of gates  308  to prevent particulate from filling the short auger tubes  304  and the long auger tubes  302  while not in use, which can minimize undesirable torqueing on the augers  332  and/or the auger motor(s)  344  during initialization of the particulate handling system  300 . After the augers  332  and the auger motor(s)  344  are operating at a sufficient speed and torque, the gate covers can be opened to permit particulate to enter the plurality of gates  308 . 
         [0063]    Referring to  FIGS. 3A, 3B and 10A , the particulate delivery system  300  can include a plurality of long auger tubes  302  and a plurality of short auger tubes  304  disposed below the bottom tray  328  of the particulate container  202 . The plurality of long auger tubes  302  and a plurality of short auger tubes  304  can be constructed in two halves for ease of manufacturing, but the present disclosure also contemplates a unitary construction. 
         [0064]    Each of the plurality of long auger tubes  302  and the plurality of short auger tubes  304  can have an input slot  322  disposed within the tubes in a position proximate to the bottom tray  328 . Referring to  FIGS. 5, 10B and 11A , the input slots  322  can be sized and shaped to receive particulate passing through the plurality of gates  308  in the bottom tray  328 . An input slot interface  338 , including a gasket, as shown in  FIG. 11A , can seal the auger tubes  302  and  304  to the inferior side of bottom tray  328 . 
         [0065]    An auger motor  344 , as shown in  FIG. 2 , can provide a rotational force to an input shaft  318 , as shown illustratively in  FIG. 6A . The input shaft  318  can span the length of the particulate container  202  and be configured to connect to a plurality of transmission input shaft receivers  316  to drive a plurality of transmissions  306 . The plurality of transmissions  306  can be mounted on the auger tube support beam  312 . The plurality of transmissions  306  can be connected through pins  320  or any other means of connection commonly known in the art. Referring to  FIGS. 11A and 11B , an auger  332  contained within the auger tubes  302  and  304  can be connected to a transmission  306  with a shaft  314  disposed on the side opposite the auger. The speed and torque of the plurality augers  332  can be determined by the speed and torque provided by the auger motor  344  via the plurality of transmissions  306 . In an embodiment, a sensor (not shown) monitors the revolutions per minute (RPM) of the shafts  314 . 
         [0066]    In an embodiment, motors can be connected to and power each of the plurality of augers  332 . In such an instance, the plurality of transmissions  306 , as shown in  FIG. 6A , can be replaced with a plurality of motors mounted on the auger tube support beam  312  or any other suitable location. Each of the plurality of motors can be operatively connected to a control system to generate desired speed of each auger  332 , of a group or bank of augers  332 , or of all augers  332 . 
         [0067]    The particulate contained in the particulate container  202  passes through the plurality of gates  308  and the input slot  322  of a long auger tube  302 . Referring to  FIGS. 6A, 11A, 11B and 11C , an auger drive shaft  336  can be rotatably connected to a transmission  306  by a bearing  334 . Upon receiving an input force from the auger motor  344  via a transmission  306 , the auger drive shaft  336  rotates the auger  332 . The helical nature of the auger  332  can transmit the particulate contained within the long auger tube  302  towards a long auger tube-particulate accelerator interface edge  340 , as shown in  FIG. 13 . The process described above can also occur for the plurality of short auger tubes  304 . Specifically, the auger  332  can transmit the particulate contained within short auger tube  304  towards a short auger tube-particulate accelerator interface edge  342 . While the embodiment can utilize an auger, it should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the disclosure covers other means of transmitting the material through a tube, including but not limited to, hydraulic pistons, pneumatics, and the like. 
         [0068]    A gasket  341  can provide a seal proximate to the long auger tube-particulate accelerator interface edge  340  and the short auger tube-particulate accelerator interface edge  342 . The gasket  341  can permit the short auger tube  304  and long auger tube  302  to flex within the particulate accelerators due to movement of the system as the particulate containers  202  and  203  are emptied, experience vibration, and the like. 
         [0069]    In an embodiment best shown in  FIG. 6B , each of the plurality of long auger tubes  302  and a plurality of short auger tubes  304  can be disposed between two hangars  309  affixed to the bottom section  228  of the particulate container  202 . The hangars  309  can be welded to the container, or can be affixed by any means commonly known in the art, including but not limited to, nut and bolt, screws, rivets, soldering, and the like. Extending outwardly along the length of the hangars  309  can be two guide surfaces  358 . As discussed below, a guide surface  358  from adjacent hangars  309  can be adapted to receive a long auger tube  302  or a short auger tube  304 . The hangars  309  can include two parallel prongs  319  extending outwardly from a front surface of the hangars  309 . The prongs  319  can be cylindrical or can be of any shape commonly known in the art to engage and/or secure a transmission  306 . Further, while two prongs  319  are shown in  FIG. 6B , the present disclosure contemplates any number of prongs without deviating from the objects of the disclosure. 
         [0070]      FIG. 6B  further illustrates a plurality of particulate handling systems  300  at various stages of installation. Beginning below so-called Sector A, two hangars  309  can be connected to the bottom surface of the particulate container  202 , as discussed above. The hangars  309  can be parallel to one another and spaced to provide for installation of a long auger tube  302  or short auger tube  304 . The long auger tube  302  or short auger tube  304  can be installed by sliding a lower surface of the input slot  322  along guide surfaces  358 , one from each of the adjacent hangars  309 , as shown illustratively below Sector B. The advantageous design permits for ease of installation as well as removal and reinstallation should a long auger tube  302 , short auger tube  304  and/or an auger  332  needs to be repaired or replaced with the same or different component. As illustrated below Sector C, a shaft  314  can be installed over the auger drive shaft  336 . The installation of the shaft  314  over the auger drive shaft  336  can occur either before or after the long auger tube  302  or short auger tube  304  has been installed between hangars  309 . Thereafter, a transmission  306  can be oriented such that mounting holes  360  are aligned with the prongs  319  on the hangars  309 , as shown illustratively below Sector D. After installation of the transmission  306  on the shaft  314 , a pin  362  can be installed to rotatably engage auger drive shaft  336  and the shaft  314 , and a pin  364  can be installed to axially secure the shaft  314  on auger drive shaft  336 , as shown illustratively below Sector E. Further, securing means commonly known in the art can be used to secure the transmission  306  to the prongs  319 . The installation process described above can be repeated for each row unit along the length of each of the particulate containers  202  and  203 . The input shaft  318  can extend through and engage the plurality of transmission receivers  316  in each of the transmissions  306 . 
         [0071]    Each of the transmissions  306  can have a clutch (not shown) in operable communication with a control system. At the direction of the user or based on instruction from the particulate metering system  10 , the control system can engage/disengage one or more predetermined clutches in order to activate/deactivate the associated one or more screw conveyors. 
         [0072]    As shown illustratively in  FIG. 6B , and more particularly below Sector D, each of the two prongs  319  of the one hangar  309  can be connected to adjacent transmissions  306 . In other words, an upper prong of a hangar can be connected to one gearbox while a lower prong of the same hangar can be connected to an adjacent gearbox. The arrangement is due to an advantageous design of the transmissions  306 , which can permit one or more transmissions  306  to be removed, inverted and reattached to the same two prongs as previously connected. The inversion of a transmission  306  can provide several advantages over the state of the art. First, in an inverted position, one or more of the transmissions  306  can be disengaged from the input shaft  318  based on the needs of the application (e.g., in at least one instance, where one or more of the rows in the field does not require particulate metering). Second, a second input shaft (not shown) can be implemented and adapted to engage the one or more transmissions  306  placed in an inverted position (e.g., in another instance, one or more of the rows can be metered at a different rate). The second input shaft can also extend the length of the particulate container  202  and can be parallel to the input shaft  318 . In such an embodiment, the user can invert one transmission or can invert multiple transmissions to permit desired groupings of the same (e.g., every four transmissions, every other transmission, etc.) based on the needs of the operation and/or application. Furthermore, together with the same opinion for the companion particulate handling system  300  associated with the second particulate container  203 , the potential configurations can permit precise control over the blends of the particulate from the containers as well as application rates in which the blends are metered. 
         [0073]    In an alternative embodiment, the plurality of long auger tubes  302  and the plurality of short auger tubes  304  can be secured below the bottom tray  328  by an auger tube support beam  312  and auger tube couplers  310 , as shown illustratively in  FIGS. 3, 5, 6A and 10A . The auger tube support beam  312  can be generally-U shaped with a plurality of cylindrical openings, as shown in  FIG. 6A . The auger tube couplers  310  can be substantially ring-shaped with a flange configured to connect to the lower portion  210  of particulate container  202 , as shown illustratively in  FIG. 3A . 
         [0074]    In concurrent operation with the particulate delivery system  300  can be an air production system  400  and an air handling system  500 .  FIGS. 14, 15A and 15B  illustrate a blower  402  of the air production system  400 . The blower  402  is driven by a blower motor  403 , as shown in  FIG. 23 . In an embodiment, a representative blower can operate at 20 horsepower (HP) and produce a volumetric flow rate of 120-150 cubic feet per minute (CFM) per row in operation. The disclosure also contemplates the blower  402  operating at variable RPM. In such instances, the blower  402  can require less horsepower than operating at a constant RPM. Operating the blower  402  at a constant RPM or variable RPM can be tailored to the specific demands of the particulate metering system  10  in a given application. 
         [0075]    Referring to  FIG. 16 , an inlet  409  side of an extension  408  can be connected to the blower  402  at an interface  404  to couple the blower  402  to the air handling system  500 . 
         [0076]    The interface  404  between the blower  402  and the extender  404  can be flanges on an outlet of the blower  402  and an inlet of the extension  408  configured to be joined by nuts and bolts, or other means such as pinning, clamping, welding, and the like. The extension  408  can be comprised of a plurality of triangular-shaped surfaces  412  designed to impart desired flow properties as air enters the air handling system  500 . The disclosure envisions alternative characteristics for the extension  408 , including but not limited to, a circular cross-section, a nozzle, an expander, and the like. The extension  408  can be made of steel, but the disclosure contemplates other materials such as aluminum, polymers, composites, ceramics, and the like. An outlet  411  side of the extension  408  can have a plate  406  with slots  414 . The plate  406  and slots  414  can connect to the coupler  410  of the air handling system  500 , as shown illustratively in  FIGS. 15A and 15B . 
         [0077]    After exiting the extension  408 , the air generated by blower  402  can enter a plenum  502  of the air handling system  500 . Referring to  FIGS. 15A and 15B , the air handling system  500  can be comprised of a plenum  502  and a plurality of outlet pipes  508 . As shown in  FIGS. 17 and 18 , the plenum can contain a first side wall  504 , second side wall  506 , a bottom wall  512  and a distal wall  510 . The second side wall  506  can be opposite the first side wall  504 . The first side wall  504  and the second side wall  506  can contain a plurality of outwardly extending flanges  514 . A cover  509  can be removably connected to the first side wall  504  and the second side wall  506 . Referring to  FIG. 18 , the cover  509  can have flanges  518  extending inferiorly along the length of the cover  509 . The flanges  518  can have a plurality of gaps  520  corresponding to the plurality of outwardly extending flanges  514  of the first side wall  504  and the second side wall  506 . The plurality of gaps  520  can engage the plurality of outwardly extending flanges  514  to align the cover  509  on the plenum  502 . An opening  522  in the cover  509  can allow a user to lock the cover into position on the plenum  502 . 
         [0078]    A plurality of apertures  516  can be disposed within the bottom wall  512  of the plenum  502 . As shown in  FIG. 18 , the plurality of apertures  516  can be arranged in two rows along the length of the plenum  502 . The two rows of apertures  516  along the length of the plenum  502  can be staggered longitudinally, as shown illustratively in  FIGS. 15A, 15B and 17 , to maximize compactness of the particulate accelerators  601  disposed below the plenum and/or to impart the desired airflow characteristics. The plurality of apertures  516  can be elliptical in shape. The disclosure, however, envisions other arrangements and/or shapes of the plurality of apertures without detracting from the objects of the disclosure. For example, the plurality of apertures  516  can be arranged in one row along the length of the plenum  502 , or the plurality of apertures  516  can be rectangular in shape. The disclosure also contemplates the plurality of apertures disposed the first side wall  504 , the second side wall  506 , and/or the cover  509 . 
         [0079]    Referring to  FIGS. 17 and 18 , the first side wall  504  and the second side wall  506  can be trapezoidal in shape. In other words, at the edge proximate to the extension  408 , the height of the first side wall  504  and the second side wall  506  is greater than the height of the same proximate to the distal wall  510 . The tapering of the plenum  502  can maintain the appropriate pressure and airflow characteristics along its length as air exits the plenum  502  through the plurality of apertures  516 . 
         [0080]    A plurality of outlet pipes  508  can be connected to the bottom wall  512  of the plenum  502 . Each of the plurality of outlet pipes  508  can be associated with each of the plurality of apertures  516 . The outlet pipes  508  can be cylindrical in shape, but the disclosure envisions different shapes, including oval, ellipsoid, rectangular, square, and the like. The outlet pipes  508  can be secured to the bottom wall  512  by means commonly known in the art, including but not limited to, pinning, welding, fastening, clamping, and the like. The outlet pipes  508  can be oriented such that an acute angle exists between the major axis of the outlet pipes  508  and the bottom wall  512  of the plenum  502 . The orientation of the outlet pipes  508  can impart the appropriate flow characteristics as air transitions from the plenum  502  to the particulate accelerator system  600 . Based on the orientation of the cylindrical outlet pipes  508  relative to the plenum  502 , the plurality of apertures  516  can be elliptical. 
         [0081]    After passing through the plenum  502  and outlet pipes  508 , air generated by the blower  402  can enter a particulate accelerator system  600 . As shown in  FIGS. 15A and 15B , each of the plurality of particulate accelerators  601  can connect to each of the plurality of outlet pipes  508 . 
         [0082]    Referring to  FIGS. 19A and 19B , each of the plurality of particulate accelerators  601  can have an inlet  604  and an outlet  602 . The inlet  604  can connect to one of the plurality of outlet pipes  508  of the plenum  502  via holes  620 . The connection can be through a screw or any other means so as not to significant impede the airflow through the outlet pipe  508  and/or the inlet  604 . In an embodiment, a locking pin (not shown) engages the holes  620  and can provide for quick installation and/or removal of a particulate accelerator  601  on the plenum  502 , thereby increasing the modularity of the system. 
         [0083]    A housing  609  can be connected to the inlet  604  and/or the outlet  602 . The housing  609  can be comprised of two halves  605  and  607  that are secured together through a plurality of clasps  610 , as shown in  FIG. 20 . The housing  609 , however, can be composed of a single structure. The particulate accelerator  601  can be made of steel, but the disclosure contemplates other materials such as aluminum, polymers, composites, ceramics, and the like. An inlet tube  608  and/or an outlet tube  606  can extend from the housing  609 . The housing  609  can be integrally formed to the inlet tube  608  and/or the outlet tube  606 . A plurality of triangular members  622  can provide support for the inlet tube  608  and/or the outlet tube  606 , as shown in  FIG. 19B . 
         [0084]    The main body  611  of the housing  609  can be generally cylindrical in shape. The main body  611  can have curved back wall  612  comprising an arc from the inlet tube  608  to the outlet tube  606 . Adjacent to the curved back wall  612  can be opposing side walls  624 . The opposing side walls  624  can be parallel to one another and generally parallel to the direction of airflow through the particulate accelerator  601 . Referring to  FIG. 19 , a cylindrical flange  634  can extend outwardly and perpendicularly from each of the opposing side walls  624 . A cylindrical flange  634  can have an outer surface  626 , an inner surface  616 , and a sloped surface  614 . A cylindrical flange  634  can have a center opening  618 . The sloped surface  614  can guide one of the long auger tube-particulate accelerator interface edges  340  of the plurality of long auger tubes  304  to connect with the inner surface  616 . Within a cylindrical flange  634  disposed on the opposing side wall  624 , a sloped surface  614  can guide one of the short auger tube-particulate accelerator interface edges  342  of the plurality of short auger tubes  302  to connect with an inner surface  616 . 
         [0085]    As mentioned above, the gasket  341  ( FIG. 13 ) can provide a seal between the plurality of short and long auger tubes  302  and  304  and the inner surfaces  616  of the particulate accelerators  601 . The gasket  341  can maintain the seal while permitting flexing of the short auger tube  304  and long auger tube  302  within the particulate accelerator  601  due to movement of the system as the particulate containers  202  and  203  are emptied, experience vibration, and the like. The distal portions of the long auger tubes  302  and the short auger tubes  304  can create an interference fit with the gaskets  341 . The auger tubes  302  and  304  can be connected to the cylindrical flanges  634  through other means commonly known in the art, including but not limited to, pinning, clamping, fastening, adhesion, and the like. The outward projections of the cylindrical flanges  634  can result in gaps  628  within the opposing side walls  624 , as shown in  FIG. 21 . 
         [0086]    The auger  332  can transmit the particulate contained within the long auger tube  302  towards the long auger tube-particulate accelerator interface edge  340 , as shown in  FIGS. 12B and 13 . Another auger  332  can also transmit the particulate contained within the short auger tube  304  towards the short auger tube-particulate accelerator interface edge  342 . Referring now to  FIG. 21 , particulate from the long auger tube  302  can enter the particulate accelerator  601  through the center opening  618 . The same process involving the short auger tube  304  can occur on the opposing side wall  624  of the particulate accelerator  601 . Upon reaching the interface edges  340  and  342  of the center openings  618 , the particulate mixture can descend vertically within the main body  611  due to the force of gravity. 
         [0087]    Referring to  FIGS. 19A, 19B and 21 , air can enter a particulate accelerator  601  through the inlet  604 , inlet tube  608 , and inlet transition zone  632 . The inlet transition zone  632  can be characterized as the point at which air enters the main body  611  from the inlet tube  608 . Due to the shape of the particulate accelerator  601 , particularly the angle  648  between the inlet tube  608  and the outlet tube  606 , the air can track in a flow pattern around the curved back wall  612  towards an outlet transition zone  630 . In an embodiment, the angle  648  between a line  646  parallel to the major axis of the inlet tube  608  and a line  640  parallel to the major axis of the outlet tube  606  can be acute, as shown in  FIG. 19B . In another embodiment, the angle  648  between the line  646  of the inlet tube  608  and the line  640  of the outlet tube  606  can be between thirty and sixty degrees. The disclosure also contemplates that angles  648  can be at a right angle or obtuse angle based on the desire flow characteristics through the particulate accelerator  601 . 
         [0088]    While air is tracking in a flow pattern around the curved back wall  612  towards an outlet transition zone  630 , the air can mix with the particulate descending vertically in the particulate accelerator  601  and can force at least a portion of the particulate mixture through the outlet  602 . Any portion of the particulate mixture and air not ejected through the outlet transition zone  630  can track in a flow along the curved front wall  636  of the main body  611 , after which the particulate mixture and air can rejoin subsequent airflow from the inlet  604  proximate to the inlet transition zone  632 . 
         [0089]    Referring to  FIG. 19B , an acute angle  644  can exist between the major axis  640  of the outlet tube  606  and a vertical axis  638  bisecting the center opening  618  of the cylindrical flange  634 . The acute angle  644  can result in a greater distance for the particulate to descend vertically prior to contacting a bottom portion of the curved back wall  612 . The greater distance can provide for increased time for the air, which can be tracking in a flow pattern around the curved back wall  612 , to impart horizontal force on the particulate mixture while in the outlet transition zone  630 . Due to the shape of the particulate accelerator  601 , the configuration can create a fluid bed to suspend the particulate as the particulate exits the outlet  602  and into a discharge tube (not shown). The fluid bed and particulate suspension can reduce the effects of wall friction between the particulate and the discharge tube. In particular, the fluid bed and particulate suspension can counteract the gravitational force on particulate traveling in a generally horizontal tube and can minimize interaction between the particulate and the bottom portion of a tube. The configuration can minimize increased backpressure due to wall friction and/or partial clogging. The fluid bed and particulate suspension can further eliminate complete clogging, resulting in improved particular discharge and overall efficiency of the metering system. 
         [0090]    After the particulate mixture exits particulate accelerator  601  via air exit outlet  602 , the particulate mixture can enter a tube (not shown) connected to the outlet  602  via holes  620 . Then, the particulate mixture can be metered to a field in any manner commonly known in the art. 
         [0091]    Referring to  FIGS. 22 and 23 , the process described above can simultaneously occur in each particulate accelerator  601  disposed along the length of the plenum  502 . As shown in  FIG. 22 , for example, the particulate handling system  300  can include eighteen short auger tubes  302  opposite eighteen long auger tubes  304 . The disclosure, however, contemplates that any number of particulate handling subsystems  301  and  303  can be provided. In an exemplary example, the particulate handling system  300  can include thirty-six short auger tubes  302  opposite thirty-six long auger tubes  304 , each row operated independently. In another exemplary example, the particulate handling system  300  can be scaled down to less than eighteen pairs of particulate handling subsystems  301  and  303  based on the needs of the application. 
         [0092]    In the illustrated embodiment of  FIG. 22 , each of the eighteen pairs of auger tubes  302  and  304  can be separated by a particulate accelerator  600  and connected to the air handling system  500  and the air production system  400 . A first row of particulate handling subsystems  301  can receive a first type of particulate from first particulate container  202 . A second row of particulate handling subsystems  303  can receive a second type of particulate from second particulate container  203 . In an embodiment that uses a plurality of auger motors  344  connected to a plurality of augers  332 , the configuration can permit control of the ratio of first type of particulate to second types of particulate for some or all of the eighteen pairs of particulate handling subsystems  301  and  303 . In an exemplary embodiment of the dual particulate accelerator system  700  discussed below, the configuration can permit control of the ratio of four or more types of particulate for each of the eighteen pairs of particulate handling subsystems  301  and  303 . 
         [0093]    As discussed above, a plurality of moveable and/or controllable gate covers (not shown) can be installed on the plurality of gates  308 . The gate covers, when closed, can prevent particulate from filling the short auger tubes  304  and/or long auger tubes  302 . The configuration can further increase the modularity of the metering system  10  by limiting which rows on a field, if any, receive one or more of the types of particulate. The gate covers can be manually and/or automatically opened and closed. 
         [0094]    Referring to  FIGS. 24 and 25 , a dual particulate accelerator system  700  is provided. The dual particulate accelerator system  700  can include a first particulate accelerator  701  and a second particulate accelerator  703 . The first particulate accelerator housing  709  can be connected to the inlet tube  706  and/or the outlet tube  724  of the first particulate accelerator  701 . A baffle  744  can be disposed within the inlet tube  706  of the first particulate accelerator  701 . The baffle  744  can extend from outside the inlet tube  706  and into the first particulate accelerator housing  709 . The baffle  744  can restrict the flow of air through inlet tube  706  to impart the desired airflow characteristics in the first particulate accelerator  701 . The baffle  744  can be placed in the inlet tube  706  of the first accelerator  701 , or at any point within the flow of air to impart the desired airflow characteristics. The baffle  744  can be self-regulating, adjustable and/or controlled by any means commonly known in the art, including but not limited to, mechanical, electrical, electronic, pneumatic, and hydraulic controls. 
         [0095]    The first particulate accelerator  701  can include an inlet  702 , an inlet tube  706 , and an outlet tube  724 . The first particulate accelerator housing  709  can be integrally formed to the inlet tube  706  and/or the outlet tube  724  of the first particulate accelerator  701 . The first particulate accelerator housing  709  can be comprised of two halves are secured together through a plurality of clasps and/or engaged holes  718 , as shown in  FIG. 24 . The housing  709 , however, can be composed of a single structure. The first particulate accelerator  701  can be made of steel, but the disclosure contemplates other materials such as aluminum, polymers, composites, ceramics, and the like. A plurality of triangular members  733  can provide support for the inlet tube  706  and/or the outlet tube  724  of the first particulate accelerator  701 , as shown in  FIG. 25 . 
         [0096]    A first main body  711  of the first particulate accelerator housing  709  can be generally cylindrical in shape. The first main body  711  can have first curved back wall  708  comprising an arc from the inlet tube  706  to the outlet tube  724  of the first particulate accelerator  701 . Adjacent to the first curved back wall  708  can be opposing side walls  710 . The opposing side walls  710  can be parallel to one another and generally parallel to the direction of airflow through the first particulate accelerator  701 . Referring to  FIG. 24 , a cylindrical flange  715  can extend outwardly and perpendicularly from each of the opposing side walls  710 . The cylindrical flange  715  can have an outer surface, an inner surface  712 , and a sloped surface  717 . The cylindrical flange  715  can have a center opening  716 . The sloped surface  717  can guide the long auger tube-particulate accelerator interface edges  340  of the plurality of long auger tubes  304  to connect with the inner surface  712 . Within a cylindrical flange  715  disposed on the opposing side wall  710 , a sloped surface  717  can guide the short auger tube-particulate accelerator interface edges  342  of the plurality of short auger tubes  302  to connect with the inner surface  712 . A gasket can provide a seal between the plurality of short and long auger tubes  302  and  304  and the inner surfaces  712  of the first particulate accelerator  701 . The gasket can maintain the seal while permitting flexing of the short auger tube  304  and long auger tube  302  within the first particulate accelerator  701  due to movement of the system as the particulate containers  202  and  204  are emptied, experience vibration, and the like. The distal portions of the long auger tubes  302  and the short auger tubes  304  can create an interference fit with the gaskets. The auger tubes  302  and  304  can be connected to the cylindrical flanges  717  through other means commonly known in the art, including but not limited to, pinning, clamping, fastenings, adhesion, and the like. The outward projections of the cylindrical flanges  715  can result in gaps  714  within the opposing side walls  710 , as shown in  FIG. 25 . 
         [0097]    Likewise, the second particulate accelerator  703  can include an inlet tube  722 , an outlet tube  720 , and an outlet  704 . The inlet tube  722  of the second particulate accelerator  703  can be connected to the outlet tube  724  of the first particulate accelerator  701  at junction  734 . 
         [0098]    A second particulate accelerator housing  705  can be connected to the inlet tube  722  and/or the outlet tube  720  of the second particulate accelerator  703 . The baffle  736  can extend from the outlet tube  724  of the first particulate accelerator  701 , though junction  734 , and into the second particulate accelerator housing  705 . The baffle  736  can restrict the flow of air through inlet tube  722  to impart the desired airflow characteristics in the second particulate accelerator  703 . The baffle  736  can be placed in the inlet tube  722  of the second accelerator  703 , or at any point within the flow of air to impart the desired airflow characteristics. The baffle  736  can be self-regulating, adjustable and/or controlled by any means commonly known in the art, including but not limited to, mechanical, electrical, electronic, pneumatic, and hydraulic controls. The baffle  744  can also be similarly disposed on particulate accelerator  601  consistent with the objects of the disclosure. 
         [0099]    The second particulate accelerator housing  705  can be integrally formed to the inlet tube  722  and/or the outlet tube  720  of the second particulate accelerator  703 . The second particulate accelerator housing  705  can be comprised of two halves are secured together through a plurality of clasps and/or engaged holes  718 , as shown in  FIG. 24 . The housing  705 , however, can be composed of a single structure. The second particulate accelerator  703  can be made of steel, but the disclosure contemplates other materials such as aluminum, polymers, composites, ceramics, and the like. A plurality of triangular members  733  can provide support for the inlet tube  722  and/or the outlet tube  720  of the second particulate accelerator  703 , as shown in  FIG. 25 . 
         [0100]    A second main body  707  of the second particulate accelerator housing  705  can be generally cylindrical in shape. The second main body  707  can have second curved back wall  740  comprising an arc from the inlet tube  722  to the outlet tube  720  of the second particulate accelerator  703 . Adjacent to the curved back wall  740  can be opposing side walls  738 . The opposing side walls  738  can be parallel to one another and generally parallel to the direction of airflow through the first particulate accelerator  703 . Referring to  FIG. 24 , a cylindrical flange  732  can extend outwardly and perpendicularly from the opposing side walls  738 . The cylindrical flange  732  can have an outer surface, an inner surface  738 , and a sloped surface  730 . The cylindrical flange  732  can have a center opening  726 . The sloped surface  730  can guide the long auger tube-particulate accelerator interface edges  340  of the plurality of long auger tubes  304  to connect the inner surface  738 . Within a cylindrical flange  732  disposed on the opposing side wall  738 , a sloped surface  730  can guide the short auger tube-particulate accelerator interface edges  342  of the plurality of short auger tubes  302  to connect with the inner surface  738 . A gasket can provide a seal between the plurality of short and long auger tubes  302  and  304  and the inner surfaces  728  of the second particulate accelerator  703 . The gasket can maintain the seal while permitting flexing of the short auger tube  304  and long auger tube  302  within the second particulate accelerator  703  due to movement of the system as the particulate containers  202  and  204  are emptied, experience vibration, and the like. The distal portions of the long auger tubes  302  and the short auger tubes  304  can create an interference fit with the gaskets. The auger tubes  302  and  304  can be connected to the cylindrical flanges  732  through other means commonly known in the art, including but not limited to, pinning, clamping, fastening, adhesion, and the like. The outward projections of the cylindrical flanges  732  can result in gaps  742  within the opposing side walls  740 , as shown in  FIG. 25 . 
         [0101]    An auger  332  can transmit the particulate contained within a long auger tube  302  towards a long auger tube-particulate accelerator interface edge  340 , as shown in  FIGS. 12B and 13 . Another auger  332  can also transmit the particulate contained within a short auger tube  304  towards a short auger tube-particulate accelerator interface edge  342 . Referring now to  FIG. 24 , particulate from the long auger tube  302  can enter the first particulate accelerator  701  through the center opening  716 . The same process involving the short auger tube  304  can occur on the opposing side wall  738  of the second particulate accelerator  703 . Upon reaching interface edges  340  and  342  of center opening  716 , the particulate mixture, consisting of a controlled ratio of a plurality of particulates, can descend vertically within the first main body  711  due to the force of gravity. 
         [0102]    The same process can occur in the second particulate accelerator  703 . An auger  332  can transmit the particulate contained within a long auger tube towards a long auger tube-particulate accelerator interface edge  340 , as shown in  FIGS. 12B and 13 . Another auger  332  can also transmit the particulate contained within a short auger tube  304  towards a short auger tube-particulate accelerator interface edge  342 . The particulate from the long auger tube  302  can enter the second particulate accelerator  703  through the center opening  726 . The same process involving the short auger tube  304  can occur on the opposite side wall  710  of the second particulate accelerator  703 . Upon reaching the interface edges  340  and  342  of the center opening  726 , the particulate mixture, consisting of a controlled ratio of a plurality of particulates, can descend vertically within the second main body  707  due to the force of gravity. 
         [0103]    Referring to  FIGS. 24 and 25 , air can enter the first particulate accelerator  701  through the inlet  702  and the inlet tube  706 . Due to the shape of the first particulate accelerator  701 , air can track in a flow pattern around the curved back wall  708  towards the outlet tube  724 . In the process, air can mix with the particulate mixture descending vertically in the first particulate accelerator  701  and can force a portion of the particulate mixture through outlet tube  724 . Any portion of the particulate mixture and air not ejected through the outlet tube  724  of the first particulate accelerator  701  can track in a flow along a curved front wall of main body  711 , after which the particulate mixture and air can rejoin subsequent airflow from the inlet  702 . 
         [0104]    The air-particulate mixture exiting the first particulate accelerator  701  can enter the inlet tube  722  of the second particulate accelerator  703 . The air-particulate mixture can track in a flow pattern around the curved back wall  740  towards the outlet tube  720  and outlet  704 . In the process, the air-particulate mixture can further mix with a second particulate mixture descending vertically in the second particulate accelerator  703  and can force a portion of the particulate mixture through outlet tube  720 . Any portion of the particulate mixture and air not ejected through the outlet tube  720  of the second particulate accelerator  703  can track in a flow along a curved front wall of main body  707 , after which the particulate mixture and air can rejoin subsequent air-particulate mixture from the inlet tube  722  of the second particulate accelerator  703 . 
         [0105]    The air-particulate mixture exiting outlet  704  can include a blend of particulates mixed in the first particulate accelerator  701  and a blend of particulates mixed in the second particulate accelerator  703 . In one embodiment, the process can permit fine control of four types of particulate without sacrificing loss of airflow efficiency. After the particulate mixture and air can enter a tube (not shown) connected to the outlet  704 , the particulate mixture can be metered to a field in any manner commonly known in the art. The process described above can simultaneously occur in each dual particulate accelerator system  700  disposed along the length of the plenum  502 . As shown in  FIG. 22 , for example, the particulate handling system  300  can include eighteen short auger tubes  304  opposite eighteen long auger tubes  302 . Each of the eighteen pairs of auger tubes  302  and  304  can be separated by a dual particulate accelerator system  700  and connected to the air handling system  500  and the air production system  400 . 
         [0106]    The disclosure is not to be limited to the particular embodiments described herein. In particular, the disclosure contemplates numerous variations in the type of ways in which embodiments of the disclosure can be applied to metering systems with variable blend and variable application rate controls for particulate matter. The foregoing description has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list or limit any of the disclosure to the precise forms disclosed. It is contemplated that other alternatives or exemplary aspects that are considered included in the disclosure. The description is merely examples of embodiments, processes or methods of the disclosure. It is understood that any other modifications, substitutions, and/or additions can be made, which are within the intended spirit and scope of the disclosure. For the foregoing, it can be seen that the disclosure accomplishes at least all of the intended objectives. 
         [0107]    The previous detailed description is of a small number of embodiments for implementing the disclosure and is not intended to be limiting in scope. The following claims set forth a number of the embodiments of the disclosure disclosed with greater particularity.