Powdered fertiliser applying machine - has plant feelers controlling operation of shutters at bottom of hopper to give pulsing flow

摘要

The machine applies fertiliser or other products in powder form to plants, being typically mounted on the back of a tractor. Retractable feelers contact the plants and cause a shutter at the base of a hopper containing the powder to swing open. The feelers can actuate a switch controlling a clutch or electric motor actuating the shutter, or alternatively they can actuate a mechanical clutch or cause a hydraulic motor to operate. The time for which the shutter is open may depend on that for which the feelers are in contact with the plant.