Patent Document

BACKGROUND 
     I. Field of the Disclosure 
     A metering system for solid particulate is disclosed. More specifically, but not exclusively, a metering system with variable application rate controls for particulate matter, such as dry fertilizers, is disclosed. 
     II. Description of the Prior Art 
     Particulate metering systems use varied approaches to control the rate at which particulate is metered. In such instances where the particulate is fertilizer, there&#39;s a significant interest in controlling the application rate of the fertilizers, and specifically controlling the application rate across separate rows in a field. In other words, what is desired in at least one application is a dry fertilizer metering system that can adjust or vary the application rate on a row-by-row basis—one row receiving fertilizer(s) at a desired rate while another row receives fertilizer(s) at the same or another desired rate. In most instances of multi-row metering using pneumatics, the distance from the air source to the discharge point for the row unit farthest from the metering implement is greater than the distance from the air source to the discharge point of the row unit closest to the metering implement. Therefore, complications can arise generating sufficient airflow to meter particulate to all of the row units while controlling the application rates. Still further, the particulate traveling through an airflow path of the metering implement can experience wall friction, requiring greater upstream air pressure and increased power consumption to meter the particulate at desired application rates. Losses and frictional effects within the system also increase the likelihood of lag and clogging. Many desire to reduce the power consumption of the particulate metering implement while controlling and/or ensuring consistent application rates across all of the row units. 
     SUMMARY 
     The present disclosure provides a particulate metering system with variable application rate controls for separate discharges or a group of discharges. 
     The particulate metering system includes an air flow origin and a plurality of particulate accelerators. Each of the particulate accelerators can have an air input, an air-particulate interface, a mixing area, and an air-particulate output. A single particulate source is in communication with the particulate accelerators. A plurality of operated conveyances is provided. Each of the operated conveyances can be in operable communication with the single particulate source and the air-particulate interface of one of the particulate accelerators. The system includes a confluence of the air flow and the particulate within the mixing area of each of the particulate accelerators. Each of a plurality of discharges can be associated with the air-particulate output of one of the particulate accelerators. One or more of the operated conveyances can operate at a different rate. 
     The air input of each of the particulate accelerators receives an air flow from the air flow origin. The system can further include a plurality of metering controls in operable communication with the operated conveyances to control a rate of the particulate conveyed to the confluence. One of the metering controls can operate independently and dependent upon another one of the metering controls. The particulate conveyed to the particulate accelerators can be equally distributed across the air-particulate interface of each of the particulate accelerators and unequally distributed across the air-particulate interface of each of the particulate accelerators. 
     According to another aspect of the disclosure, the particulate metering system includes a particulate flow path having a particulate storage area and a plurality of particulate accelerators. Each of the particulate accelerators has an air-particulate output and a mixing area. The particulate flow path can further include a plurality of operated conveyances in operable communication with the particulate storage area, and a discharge line connected to the air-particulate output of each of the particulate accelerators. The operated conveyances convey particulate from the particulate storage areas to each of the particulate accelerators. The particulate can descend vertically within the particulate accelerators into the mixing area. The particulate can mix with and be suspended by air in the mixing area. A resulting air-particulate mixture moves through the air-particulate output into the discharge line. 
     One or more drive systems can be in operable control of the operated conveyances. Further, one or more rate controllers can be in operable control of the one or more drive systems. A first subset of the operated conveyances can be associated with a first drive system, and a second subset of the operated conveyances can be associated with a second drive system. The first drive system and the second drive system can operate independently and/or at varied speeds. 
     According to yet another aspect of the disclosure, a particulate storage area containing one or more types of particulate is provided. A plurality of particulate accelerators is in communication with the particulate storage area. The system includes a first configuration of a plurality of gearboxes in operable communication with the particulate storage area and the particulate accelerators, and a second configuration of the gearboxes in operable communication with the particulate storage area and the particulate accelerators. A drive shaft is in operable communication with the first configuration of gearboxes or the second configuration of gearboxes. A motor can be in operable control of the drive shaft. The gearboxes can convey particulate from the particulate storage area to the particulate accelerators. 
     The quantity of gearboxes in the first configuration can be more or less than a quantity of the gearboxes in the second configuration. The gearboxes can be inverted, such that the inverted gearboxes are not in operable communication with the drive shaft. A second drive shaft can be in operable control of the inverted plurality of gearboxes. 
     The system can include a plurality of motors. Each of the motors is operatively connected to one of the plurality of gearboxes. Each of the motors can be independently controllable. 
     A plurality of cartridges can be provided. Each of the cartridges can be in operably connected to the gearboxes and in communication with the particulate storage area. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       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: 
         FIG. 1  is a front perspective view of a particulate metering implement in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 2A  is an isometric view of a particulate container in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 2B  is a side elevation view of a particulate container in accordance of an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 3  is a cross-sectional view of the particulate container of  FIG. 2B  taken along section line  3 - 3 ; 
         FIG. 4  is an isometric view of a bottom tray in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 5  is a front perspective view of particulate handling subsystems and a plurality of particulate accelerators in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 6A  is a front perspective view of a cartridge in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 6B  is an exploded front perspective view of a cartridge in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 7  is an exploded front perspective view of a gearbox in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 8  is a front perspective view of particulate handling subsystems at various stages of installation in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 9  is a front elevation view of a plurality of gearboxes in various configurations in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 10  is an exploded front perspective view of an air production and handling system in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 11  is an isometric view of an expander in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 12  is an exploded view of a plenum in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 13  is front perspective view of a particulate handling system, an air production and handling system, and a plurality of particulate accelerators in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 14  is an exploded front perspective view of a particulate accelerator in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 15A  is a front perspective view of a particulate accelerator in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 15B  is a rear perspective view of a particulate accelerator in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; and 
         FIG. 16  is a cross sectional view of the particulate accelerator of  FIG. 15B  taken along section line  16 - 16 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       FIG. 1  shows a particulate metering implement  100 . 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, seed planters, nutrient applicators, and other agricultural equipment. The implement  100  can be mounted upon a towable trailer or other suitable structure such as a toolbar, or integrally formed with a particulate application system. The implement can include a frame assembly  102 , upon which a particulate container  200  is disposed. For user accessibility to the particulate container  200 , a platform  104  and a ladder  106  can be provided. The implement can also include a particulate handling system  300  ( FIG. 2A ), an air production and handling system  400 , and particulate accelerator system  500 . 
     In an embodiment, the implement can include a second particulate handling system  300 , a second air production and handling system  400 , and a second particulate accelerator system  500 . In such an embodiment, the additional systems can be disposed in the space provided within the frame assembly  102  on the opposite side of the particulate container  200 . Whereas the embodiment illustrated  FIG. 1  provides variable application rate control for up to eighteen unit rows, the embodiment with the additional particulate handling, air production and handling, and particulate accelerator systems can scale the implement to permit variable application rate control for up to thirty-six unit rows, consistent with the objects of the disclosure discussed below. Together with the modular features of the system also discussed below, a user is not limited to eighteen and thirty-six row configurations, but can control the application rate for any number of rows above, below and there between. 
     The particulate container  200  can be connected to the frame assembly  102  by frame members  108 . The frame members  108  can generally be ring-shaped and surround a perimeter of the particulate container  200 . The frame members  108  can engage a lower surface  216  extending outwardly from the particulate container  200 , as shown illustratively in  FIG. 2B . The interface between the lower surface  216  of the particulate container  200  and the frame members  108  can permit the particulate container  200  to be efficiently removed from the implement. Based on the tapering nature of the middle portions  212  and lower portions  214  ( FIG. 2B ) of the particulate container  200 , the containers can be raised through the perimeter defined by the frame members  108 . Thereafter, a replacement particulate container can be efficiently installed; or a substitute container (with different dimensions, structure, function, etc.) can be efficiently installed, thereby increasing the modularity of the implement. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1 and 2A , a top surface of the particulate container  200  can include openings  208  covered by one or more lids  202 . The lid  202  can be opened or removed to permit loading of particulate into and/or servicing the particulate container  200 . In an exemplary embodiment, an edge of the lid  202  can be releasably connected to the particulate container  200  with one or more straps  206 . The present disclosure also contemplates hinges, rails, and other fastening means commonly known in the art to releasably secure the lid  202  to the particulate container  200 . One or more clamps  204  can be mounted on the particulate container  200  proximate to the opposing edge of the lids  202  to releasably secure the lids to the containers. Upon opening and/or removal of the lid  202 , one or more screens (not shown) can be disposed within the openings of the particulate container  200  to prevent debris from entering the same. 
     Further, the clamps  204  can provide an airtight seal between the lid  202  and the particulate container  200 . In such an embodiment, the airtight seal can permit the particulate container  200  to be pressurized. In one representative example, the particulate container  200  can be pressurized to ten, fifteen, twenty or greater inches of water (in H 2 O). 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. 
     Referring to  FIG. 2B , particulate container  200  can include an upper portion  210 , a middle portion  212 , and a lower portion  214 . The upper portion  210  can generally be a rectangular prism or like shapes to maximize storage capacity above the frame assembly. The middle portion  212  can be a trapezium prism or like shapes to assist in funneling the particulate to the lower portion  214 . The transition from the upper portion  210  to the middle portion  212  can be generally demarcated by the frame members  108  disposed around the perimeter of the particulate container  200 . The lower portion  214  can also be a trapezium prism or like shapes to assist in funneling the particulate to the base of the particulate container  200 . Further, to assist in servicing the inside of the particulate container  200 , a ladder (not shown) can be provided. 
     In addition to the shape of the particulate container  200 , other means can be provided on or within the container to assist in funneling the particulate to the base of the container and/or to prevent agglomerations of particulate within the container. Such means can include, but are not limited to, agitators, augers, pneumatics, belt drives, internal structures, and the like. 
     The lower portion  214  of the particulate container  200  can include a bottom tray  303 , as shown in  FIGS. 3 and 4 . The bottom tray  303  can include a plurality of large gates  304  and a plurality of small gates  306  arranged along the length of the bottom tray  303 . The plurality of gates  304  and  306  can be square and/or rectangular, as shown, or can be of any shape to permit particulate to enter the particulate handling system  300 . Similarly, the plurality of gates  304  and  306  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  303  can be flat, as shown, or can have a wedged-shape configuration to funnel particulate to the plurality of gates  304  and  306 . The bottom tray  303  can be integrally connected to the lower portion  214  of the particulate container  200 , or can be removable to permit a user to quickly install a different bottom tray  303  based on the needs of the application, further increasing the modularity of the system. The plurality of large gates  304  and the plurality of small gates  306  can be separated by a raised portion  308 . The raised portion  308  can funnel the particulate into the plurality of large gates  304  and the plurality of small gates  306  and/or add structural support along the length of the bottom tray  303 . Separating the particulate into a pairs of gates can minimize undesirable torqueing of the screw conveyors  324  ( FIG. 6B ) and auger motor(s)  452  ( FIG. 13 ), particularly during initialization of the particulate handling system  300 . 
     A plurality of moveable and/or controllable gate covers (not shown) can be installed on plurality of gates  304  and  306 . The gate covers, when closed, can prevent particulate from filling the plurality of cartridges  310 , as shown illustratively in  FIGS. 5, 6A and 6B . The gate covers can be manually controlled or operatively controlled. The configuration can further increase the modularity of the metering system by limiting which discharge points (e.g., row units), if any, receive one or more of the types of particulate. 
     One or more scales (not shown) can be associated with each of the particulate container  200 . The scales can be operatively connected to a control system and configured to weigh the particulate container  200 . Together with one or more sensors associated with one or more gearboxes  312  ( FIG. 5 ) 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 row in the field and/or for the overall particulate metering implement. To determine expected volume of particulate dispensed, speed sensors can measure the number of rotations of a shaft  326  with flightings  328 , as shown illustratively in  FIG. 6B . Based on the number and known dimensions of the flightings  328 , including diameter and helix angle, an estimation of how much particulate is dispensed per revolution can be obtained. The estimation can be applied to each unit row for the particulate metering implement, each of which can be operating at varied rates. The total expected volume can then be compared to the change in weight (multiplied by the density of the particulate) as measured by the one or more scales associated with the particulate container  200 . Further, in an embodiment utilizing real-time feedback, the control system can make adjustments based on the data provided to reconcile the expected volume of particulate dispensed versus actual volume of particulate dispensed. Still further, the data can be used by the control system to diagnose dysfunctional screw conveyor(s)  324  and/or auger motor(s)  452  ( FIG. 13 ), and/or identify potential blockages of particulate within the particulate metering implement. 
     Disposed below the bottom tray  303  can be a plurality of cartridges  310 . An exemplary embodiment of the cartridge  310  is shown illustratively in  FIGS. 5, 6A and 6B . Referring now to  FIGS. 6A and 6B , each cartridge  310  can include an input slot  321  sized and shaped to receive particulate passing through the plurality of large gates  304  and the plurality of small gates  306  in the bottom tray  303 . A gasket  311  can seal the cartridge  310  to the inferior side of bottom tray  303 . The seal can prevent particulate from escaping the system, particularly in instances where the particulate container  200  is pressurized. The cartridge  310  can be constructed in two halves  318  and  320 . Each of the two halves  318  and  320  can include a curved flange portion  330  adapted to receive a short auger tube  314  or a long auger tube  316  ( FIG. 5 ). While two halves can provide for ease of manufacturing, the present disclosure also contemplates a unitary cartridge construction. 
     Within the input slot  321  of the cartridge  310  is a screw conveyor  324 . In an exemplary embodiment shown illustratively in  FIG. 6B , the screw conveyor  324  can include a shaft  326  and flightings  328  as commonly known in the art. The shaft  326  can be comprised of two shaft sections. While the embodiment can utilize a screw conveyor, it can 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, slides, belts, and the like. External to the two halves  318  and  320  of the cartridge  310 , the screw conveyor  324  can be coupled to an inner shaft  332 . Encircling the inner shaft  332  can be a drive shaft  338 , as shown illustratively in  FIG. 6A . The inner shaft  332  and the drive shaft  338  can be rotatably engaged with a pin  334 . The axial position of the drive shaft  338  on the inner shaft  332  can be preserved through a pin  336  extending through the inner shaft  332  proximate to an edge of the drive shaft  338 . The drive shaft  388  can be hexagonal to engage a drive shaft opening  354  in the gearbox  312 , as shown illustratively in  FIGS. 6B and 7 . The drive shaft  338  can be hexagonal as shown, or can be of any shape suitable to engage the gearbox  312  and achieve the objects of the disclosure. Further, the present disclosure also envisions the inner shaft  332  and the drive shaft  338  being a unitary construction. 
       FIG. 7  illustrates an exemplary gearbox  312 . The gearbox  312  can be configured of two connectable halves  342  and  344  to provide for ease of manufacturing. The gearbox  312  can include an input portion  346  and an output portion  348 . The input portion  346  can include a main shaft opening  350  extending through the input portion  346 . The main shaft opening  350  can be adapted to receive and engage a main drive shaft  366  ( FIG. 13 ). In the illustrative embodiment of  FIG. 7 , the main shaft opening  350  is hexagonal, but can be of any shape suitable to achieve the objects of the disclosure. The main shaft opening  350  can comprise an inner portion of an input helical gear  352 . As one or more gearboxes  312  can be connected in parallel, as discussed below, the main drive shaft  366  can span the length of the particulate container  200  and simultaneously drive multiple gearboxes  312 , as shown illustratively in  FIG. 13 . The output portion  348  can include a drive shaft opening  354  adapted to engage the drive shaft  338  of the cartridge  310 , as discussed above. The drive shaft opening  354  can comprise an inner portion of an output helical gear  356 . The input helical gear  352  and output helical gear  356  can be in a crossed configuration, as shown in  FIG. 7 . While the illustrative embodiment shows helical gears in a crossed configuration, the present disclosure contemplates any type of gearing needed to achieve the objects of the disclosure, including but not limited to, spur gears, bevel gears, spiral bevels, and the like. The drive shaft opening  354  can be orthogonal to main shaft opening  350 , whereby each of the gearboxes  312  transfers the rotational speed and torque provided by the main drive shaft  366  to an associated screw conveyor  324  disposed within a cartridge  310 . The present disclosure also contemplates other means for transferring the rotational speed and torque provided by the main drive shaft  366  to an associated screw conveyor  324  including but not limited to, electromagnetic induction, belts, and the like. 
     In another embodiment, a motor can be operatively connected to each cartridge, thereby removing the need for a gearbox. In the embodiment, the plurality of motors can be connected to the plurality of screw conveyors  324  to independently control each of the plurality of screw conveyors  324 . Each of the plurality of motors can be operatively connected to a control system to produce a desired speed of each screw conveyor  324 , of a group or bank of the screw conveyors  324 , or of all the screw conveyors  324 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 5 , the particulate handling system  300  can be comprised of a plurality of particulate handling subsystems  302 . Each particulate handling subsystem  302  can be comprised of a cartridge  310  operatively connected to a gearbox  312  with a short auger tube  314  or long auger tube  316  extending from the cartridge  310 . The plurality of short auger tubes  314  and long auger tubes  316  and can be alternately disposed in parallel below a particulate container, as shown illustratively in  FIGS. 5 and 10 . The alternating of the short auger tubes  314  and long auger tubes  316  can provide for a greater density of additional components disposed between particulate container  200 , and more particularly, a plurality of particulate accelerators  500 . 
     As best shown illustratively in  FIG. 8 , each of the cartridges  310  can be disposed between two hangars  360  affixed to the lower section  214  of the particulate container  200 . Each of the hangars  360  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 hangar  360  can be two guide surfaces  364 . As discussed below, a guide surface  364  from adjacent hangars  360  can be adapted to receive a cartridge  310 . The hangars  360  can also include two prongs  362 . Each of the prongs  362  can be cylindrical or can be of any shape commonly known in the art to engage and/or secure a gearbox  312 . Further, while the illustrated embodiment shows two prongs  362 , the present disclosure contemplates any number of prongs without deviating from the objects of the disclosure. 
     In an alternative embodiment, the plurality of cartridges  310  can be secured below the bottom tray  303  by a support member (not shown) extending the length of the particulate container  200 . The support member can be, for example, a generally U-shaped beam with a plurality of openings to support the cartridges. 
       FIG. 8  illustrates a plurality of particulate handling subsystems  302  at various stages of installation. Beginning below so-called Sector A, two hangars  360  can be connected to the bottom surface of the particulate container  200 , as discussed above. The hangars  360  can be parallel to one another and spaced to provide for installation of a cartridge  310 . The cartridge  310  can be installed by sliding a lower surface  340  of the input slot  320  ( FIG. 6A ) along guide surfaces  364 , one from each of the adjacent hangars  360 , as shown illustratively below Sector B. The advantageous design permits for ease of installation as well as removal and reinstallation should a cartridge  310  (and/or screw conveyor  324 ) need to be repaired or replaced with the same or different component. As illustrated below Sector C, the drive shaft  338  of the cartridge  310  can be installed over the inner shaft  332 . The installation of the drive shaft  338  over the inner shaft  332  can occur either before or after the cartridge  310  has been installed between hangars  360 . Thereafter, a gearbox  312  can be oriented such that the mounting holes  358  ( FIG. 7 ) are aligned with the prongs  362  of the hangars  360 , as shown illustratively below Sector D. In such an orientation, the drive shaft opening  354  ( FIG. 7 ) can also be aligned with the drive shaft  338  of the cartridge  310 . After installation of the gearbox  312  on the drive shaft  338 , a pin  334  can be installed to rotatably engage the inner shaft  332  and the drive shaft  338 , and a pin  336  can be installed to axially secure the drive shaft  338  relative to the inner shaft  332 , as shown illustratively below Sector E. Further, securing means commonly known in the art can be used to secure the gearbox  312  to the prongs  362 . The installation process described above can be repeated for each row unit along the length of each of the particulate container  200 . The main drive shaft  366  ( FIG. 13 ) can extend through and engage the main drive shaft openings  350  in each of the gearboxes  312 . 
     Each of the gearboxes  312  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 control system, the control system can engage/disengage one or more predetermined clutches in order to activate/deactivate the associated one or more screw conveyors. In such an instance, the particulate metering system can provide for section control. 
     As shown illustratively in  FIGS. 8 and 9 , each of the two prongs  362  of one hangar  360  can be connected to adjacent gearboxes  312 . 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 gearbox  312 , which can permit one or more gearboxes  312  to be removed, inverted and reattached to the same two prongs as previously connected, as shown illustratively in  FIG. 9 . The inversion of a gearbox  312  can provide several advantages over the state of the art. First, in an inverted position, one or more of the gearboxes  312  can be disengaged from the main drive shaft  366  ( FIG. 13 ) 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 main drive shaft (not shown) can be implemented and adapted to engage the one or more gearboxes  312  placed in an inverted position. The second main drive shaft can also extend the length of the particulate container  200  and can be parallel to the main drive shaft  366 . In such an embodiment, the user can invert one gearbox or can invert multiple gearboxes to permit desired groupings of the same (e.g., every four gearboxes, every other gearbox, etc.) based on the needs of the operation/application. Still further, the means of securing the gearboxes  312  to the implement can provide for efficient installation and/or uninstallation of the gearboxes  312  in instances of malfunction or failure. In operation, particulate within the particulate container  200  can pass through the plurality of large gates  304  and a plurality of small gates  306  of the bottom tray  303  and the input slots  321  of the plurality of cartridges  310 , as shown illustratively in  FIGS. 3, 5 and 6A . Referring now to  FIG. 13 , the main drive shaft  366  can be connected to the plurality of gearboxes  312 . Upon receiving an input force from the auger motor  452  via the gearbox  312 , the drive shaft  338  rotates the screw conveyors  324 . The screw conveyors  324  can transmit the particulate contained within the short auger tube  314  and long auger tube  316  towards particulate accelerators  500 . The process described above can also occur for each row unit along the length of the particulate container  200 . 
     The particulate metering implement  100  can include an air production and handling system  400  ( FIG. 10 ). The air production and handling system  400  can be disposed between and below a portion of the particulate container  200 . 
       FIG. 10  illustrates an exemplary air production and handling system  400 . air production and handling system  400  can include a blower  402  driven by a blower motor  404  to produce an airflow. In an embodiment, a representative blower can operate at 20 horsepower (HP) and produce a volumetric flow rate 120-150 cubic feet per minute (CFM) per row in operation. The disclosure also contemplates the blower  402  operating at variable revolutions per minute (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 and/or variable RPM can be tailored to the specific demands of the particulate metering system in a given application. 
     The blower  402  can be coupled to a plenum  410  via an extension  406  and a bracket  408 . Referring to  FIG. 11 , an inlet  418  side of an extension  406  can be connected to the blower  402  at an interface  422  to couple the blower  402  to the air production and handling system  400 . The interface  422  between the blower  402  and the extension  406  can be a flange having holes  426  on the inlet of the extension  406  configured to be joined by nuts and bolts, or other means such as pinning, clamping, welding, and the like. The extension  406  can be comprised of a plurality of triangular-shaped surfaces  424  designed to impart desired flow properties as air enters the air production and handling system  400 . The disclosure envisions alternative characteristics for the extension  406 , including but not limited to, a circular cross-section, a nozzle, an expander, and the like. The extension  406  can be made of steel, but the disclosure contemplates other materials such as aluminum, polymers, composites, ceramics, and the like. An outlet  420  side of the extension  406  can have a plate  428  with slots  430  and holes  432  for coupling the extension  406  to the bracket  408 , as shown illustratively in  FIG. 10 . Further, the extension  406  can permit efficient installation and uninstallation of the blower  402  on the air production and handling system  400 . In such instances, the blower used in operation can be customized to the specific needs of the application, further increasing the modularity of the system. 
     After exiting the extension  406 , the air generated by blower  402  can enter an intake  434  of a plenum  410  of the air production and handling system  400 , as shown illustratively in  FIG. 12 . The plenum  410  can include a plenum cover  412  removably connected to a plenum base  410 . When installed, the plenum cover  412  can be sealed to the plenum base  416  with a gasket  414  ( FIG. 10 ) contoured to outer edges of the same. To install or uninstall the plenum cover  412 , the plenum cover  412  can include a plurality of downwardly extending flanges  448  adapted to mate with flanges  444  extending outwardly along the length of the sidewalls  438  of the plenum base  416 . In particular, gaps between the flanges  444  on the plenum base  416  can receive to the plurality of downwardly extending flanges  448  on the plenum cover  412 , after which the plenum cover  412  can be slid laterally into a locked position. Thereafter, pins  446  can be installed to ensure the plenum cover  412  remains in the locked position. The securing means can provide for rapid accessibility to the interior of the plenum  410  for servicing and the like. 
     The plenum base  416  can contain opposing sidewalls  438 , a bottom wall  436  and a distal wall  442 . A plurality of apertures  440  can be disposed within the bottom wall  436  of the plenum base  416 . The plurality of apertures  440  can be arranged in two rows along the length of the plenum  410 . The two rows of apertures  440  along the length of the plenum base  416  can be staggered longitudinally to maximize compactness of the particulate accelerators  500  disposed below the plenum and/or to impart the desired airflow characteristics within the plenum  410 . The plurality of apertures  440  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  440  can be arranged in one row along the length of the plenum base  416 , or the plurality of apertures  440  can be circular or rectangular in shape. The disclosure also contemplates the plurality of apertures disposed the sidewalls  438  and/or the plenum cover  412 . 
     The sidewalls  438  can be trapezoidal in shape. In other words, at an edge of the plenum base  416  proximate to the intake  434 , the sidewalls  438  are greater than the height of the same proximate to the distal wall  442 . The tapering of the plenum base  416  can maintain the appropriate pressure and airflow characteristics along its length as air exits the plenum  410  through the plurality of apertures  440 . 
     A plurality of outlet pipes  450  can be connected to the bottom wall  436  of the plenum base  416 . Each of the plurality of outlet pipes  450  can be associated with each of the plurality of apertures  440 . The outlet pipes  450  can be cylindrical in shape, but the disclosure envisions different shapes, including oval, ellipsoid, rectangular, square, and the like. The outlet pipes  450  can be secured the bottom wall  436  by means commonly known in the art, including but not limited to, pinning, welding, fastening, clamping, and the like. The outlet pipes  450  can be oriented such that an acute angle exists between the major axis of the outlet pipes  450  and the bottom wall  436  of the plenum base  416 . The orientation of the outlet pipes  450  can impart the appropriate flow characteristics as air transitions from the plenum  410  to a particulate accelerator system  500  ( FIG. 10 ). 
     After passing through the plenum  410  and outlet pipes  450 , air generated by the blower  402  can enter a plurality of particulate accelerators  500 . Referring to  FIG. 14, 15A and 15B , each of the plurality of particulate accelerators  500  can be comprised of two opposing halves  502  and  504  and secured by means commonly known in the art. In the illustrated embodiment, the two opposing halves  502  and  504  are joined by a plurality of snap-fit mechanisms  519  and opposing lugholes  518  through which bolts, screws, pins, and the like, can be engaged. A gasket (not shown) can be disposed between the two halves  502  and  504  to provide a seal. Though two halves can provide for ease of manufacturing, the present disclosure envisions a unitary construction of the particulate accelerator  500 . Further, the particulate accelerator  500  can be made of steel, but the disclosure contemplates other materials such as aluminum, polymers, composites, ceramics, and the like. 
     Extending outwardly from each opposing half  502  and  504  of the particulate accelerator  500  can be cylindrical flanges  522 . One of the two cylindrical flanges  522  can removably interface with a ringed gasket  520 . In particular, the ringed gasket  520  can include two generally coaxial surfaces sized and shaped to create a frictional fit with the cylindrical flanges  522 . The ringed gasket  520  can also be adapted to receive a short auger tube  314  or a long auger tube  316 , discussed in detail below. The ringed gaskets  520  can provide a seal between the plurality of short and long auger tubes  314  and  316  and the particulate accelerators  500 . The ringed gaskets  520  can maintain the seal while permitting relative movement of the short auger tubes  314  and/or long auger tubes  316  within the particulate accelerator  500  due to movement of the system as the particulate container  200  are emptied, experience vibration, and the like. The present disclosure contemplates the short auger tubes  314  and the long auger tubes  316  can be connected to the cylindrical flanges  522  through other means commonly known in the art, including but not limited to, pinning, clamping, fastening, adhesion, and the like. The opposing cylindrical flange  522  can interface with a cap  521 . The cap  521  can create a frictional fit with the cylindrical flange  522 , or can be secured by means commonly known in the art, including but not limited to, pinning, welding, fastening, clamping, and the like. 
     Each of the plurality of particulate accelerators  500  can connect to each of the plurality of outlet pipes  450  of the plenum  410  via holes  507 . The connection can be through a screw or any other means so as not to significantly impede the airflow through the particulate accelerator  500 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 15A, 15B and 16 , an inlet tube  508  and outlet tube  510  can extend outwardly from a generally cylindrical main body  511 . The particulate accelerator  500  can include a baffle  523  disposed proximate the inlet  503 . The baffle  523  can restrict the flow of air through inlet tube  508  to impart the desired airflow characteristics in the particulate accelerator  500 . The present disclosure contemplates that the baffle  523  can be placed at any point within the flow of air to impart the desired airflow characteristics. The baffle  523  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 main body  511  can be integrally formed or removably connected to the inlet tube  508  and/or the outlet tube  510 . The main body  511  can have curved back wall  512  comprising an arc from the inlet tube  508  to the outlet tube  510 . Adjacent to the curved back wall  512  can be opposing side walls  516 . The opposing side walls  516  can be parallel to one another and generally parallel to the direction of airflow through the particulate accelerator  500 . The cylindrical flanges  522  discussed above can extend outwardly and perpendicularly from each of the opposing side walls  516 . The cylindrical flange  522  can have a center opening  514  adapted to receive particulate from the particulate handling systems  300 . 
     In operation, particulate from a short auger tube  314  and a long auger tube  316  can be forced by a screw conveyor  324  into the particulate accelerator  500  through the center openings  514 , as best shown illustratively in  FIGS. 6A and 15A . Upon reaching the particulate accelerator  500 , the particulate mixture, consisting of a controlled ratio of a plurality of particulates, can descend vertically within the main body  511  due to the force of gravity. 
     After passing through the plenum  410 , air generated by the blower  402  can enter an inlet  503  of a particulate accelerator  500  ( FIGS. 10 and 15A ). Due to the shape of the particulate accelerator  500 , particularly the angle  534  between the inlet tube  508  and the outlet tube  510 , the air can track in a flow pattern around the curved back wall  512 . In an embodiment, the angle  534  between the major axis  530  of the inlet tube  508  and the major axis  532  of the outlet tube  510  can be acute. In another embodiment, the angle  534  can be between thirty and sixty degrees. The disclosure also contemplates that the angle  534  can be at a right angle or obtuse angle based on the desire flow characteristics through the particulate accelerator  500 . 
     While air is tracking in a flow pattern around the curved back wall  512 , the air can mix with the blend of particulate descending vertically in the particulate accelerator  500 , as discussed above, and can force at least a portion of the particulate mixture through the outlet  505 . Any portion of the air-particulate mixture not ejected through the outlet  505  can track in a flow along the curved front wall  517  of the main body  511 , after which the air-articulate mixture and air can rejoin subsequent airflow from the inlet  503  proximate to the inlet  508 . 
     An acute angle  538  can exist between the major axis  532  of the outlet tube  510  and a vertical axis  536  bisecting the center opening  514  of the particulate accelerator  500 . The acute angle  538  can result in a greater distance for the particulate to descend vertically prior to contacting a bottom portion of the curved back wall  512 . The greater distance can provide increased time for the air, which can be tracking in a flow pattern around the curved back wall  512 , to impart horizontal force on the particulate mixture. Due to the advantageous shape of the particulate accelerator  500 , the configuration can create a fluid bed to suspend the particulate as the particulate exits the outlet  505  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 the generally horizontal discharge 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 particulate discharge and overall efficiency of the metering system. The process described above can occur simultaneously in each particulate accelerator  500  disposed along the length of the plenum  410 , as best shown illustratively in  FIG. 13 . 
     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 particulate implements with 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 that is intended. 
     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 with greater particularity.

Technology Category: g