Orientation signals from a ground surface orientation sensor are received at a control system. The signals are indicative of a side tilt angle of a sideways sloped ground surface. Based on the signals the control system, the control system causes a side tilt counteracting mechanism to operate to counteract the sideways acting force acting an agricultural apparatus associated with the side tilt angle. A steerable wheel of an agricultural apparatus is pivotable about a steering axis, and an actuation system is operable to adjust a steering angle of the steerable wheel about the steering axis. The steering angle of the steerable wheel may produce a steering direction that counteracts the side force acting on the tillage apparatus.
An agricultural implement comprises: a main frame, an operational unit interconnected to the main frame, and a height adjustment apparatus interconnected to the main frame and the operational unit. The height adjustment apparatus comprises a terrain contact element that can be positioned to contact a terrain surface such that the contact element supports the operational unit at a vertical separation distance of the operational unit above the terrain surface. The height adjustment apparatus can adjust the vertical separation distance of the operational unit above the terrain surface. A shock absorbing assembly is operationally positioned between the main frame and the terrain contact element and provides for resilient deformation in response to forces transmitted during operation to the terrain contact element, from contact with the terrain surface. The shock absorbing assembly may absorb and/or cushion forces imparted to a component of the height adjustment apparatus.
A01D 34/04 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having reciprocating cutters mounted on a vehicle, e.g. a tractor, or drawn by an animal or a vehicle with cutters at the front
An agricultural apparatus comprises a propulsion unit and an implement connected to the propulsion unit. The implement comprises: (i) a main frame having a main frame weight, (ii) an operational unit; (iii) a unit support apparatus configured to interconnect the operational unit to the main frame; (iv) a height adjustment apparatus comprising a terrain contact element, the height adjustment apparatus connected to the unit support apparatus. The terrain contact element is operable to be positioned to contact the terrain surface level at a contact region such that the at least one terrain contact element supports the unit support apparatus at a vertical separation distance above the terrain surface. The height adjustment apparatus is operable to adjust the vertical separation distance of the unit support apparatus above the terrain surface and thereby adjust a vertical separation distance of the operational unit above the terrain surface.
A01D 34/04 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having reciprocating cutters mounted on a vehicle, e.g. a tractor, or drawn by an animal or a vehicle with cutters at the front
4.
HEIGHT POSITIONING AND ADJUSTMENT SYSTEM FOR AN AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENT
An agricultural apparatus comprises a propulsion unit and an implement connected to the propulsion unit. The implement comprises: (i) a main frame having a main frame weight, (ii) an operational unit; (iii) a unit support apparatus configured to interconnect the operational unit to the main frame; (iv) a height adjustment apparatus comprising a terrain contact element, the height adjustment apparatus connected to the unit support apparatus. The terrain contact element is operable to be positioned to contact the terrain surface level at a contact region such that the at least one terrain contact element supports the unit support apparatus at a vertical separation distance above the terrain surface. The height adjustment apparatus is operable to adjust the vertical separation distance of the unit support apparatus above the terrain surface and thereby adjust a vertical separation distance of the operational unit above the terrain surface.
An agricultural apparatus may comprise a transversely extending main frame. The main frame may be configured to move upwards on a side when subjected to a lifting force on that side. A stabilizer apparatus may be inter-connected to the main frame and be transversely spaced outwards. and may be operable to provide support against downward acting forces. A pneumatic system may comprise at least one frame gas suspension bag and at least one stabilizer gas bag may be located proximate the stabilizer apparatus and may be in pneumatic communication with the at least one frame gas suspension bag. When the at least one gas suspension bag is filled with a pressurized gas, and the stabilizer apparatus is subjected to an upwardly directed force, the at least one stabilizer gas bag may be compressed increasing a pressure of the pressurized gas within the at least one stabilizer gas bag. Pressurized gas in the at least one stabilizer gas bag may be communicated towards the least one frame gas suspension bag, to increase the gas pressure within the at least one frame gas suspension bag, which creates a lifting force on a first side of the main frame, to cause the main frame to lift upwards.
A01B 63/111 - Lifting or adjusting devices or arrangements for agricultural machines or implements for implements mounted on tractors operated by hydraulic or pneumatic means regulating working depth of implements
An agricultural apparatus may comprise a transversely extending main frame. The main frame may be configured to move upwards on a side when subjected to a lifting force on that side. A stabilizer apparatus may be inter-connected to the main frame and be transversely spaced outwards. and may be operable to provide support against downward acting forces. A pneumatic system may comprise at least one frame gas suspension bag and at least one stabilizer gas bag may be located proximate the stabilizer apparatus and may be in pneumatic communication with the at least one frame gas suspension bag. When the at least one gas suspension bag is filled with a pressurized gas, and the stabilizer apparatus is subjected to an upwardly directed force, the at least one stabilizer gas bag may be compressed increasing a pressure of the pressurized gas within the at least one stabilizer gas bag. Pressurized gas in the at least one stabilizer gas bag may be communicated towards the least one frame gas suspension bag, to increase the gas pressure within the at least one frame gas suspension bag, which creates a lifting force on a first side of the main frame, to cause the main frame to lift upwards.
A01B 63/22 - Lifting or adjusting devices or arrangements for agricultural machines or implements for implements drawn by animals or tractors with wheels adjustable relatively to the frame operated by hydraulic or pneumatic means
A knife drive assembly for use in a harvesting header may be mounted near the center line of the cutter bar of the header. Mechanical power from the power unit behind the header (typically the combine power output shaft) may be translated for application to two knife assembly sections in the cutter bar at the front of the cutter table. Movement of the two knife assembly sections with this apparatus can be fully synchronized and 180 degrees out of phase, to maximize cutting effectiveness and minimize vibration of the header. The unitary drive assembly may allow for rapid repair and manufacture, and the size and weight of the knife drive assembly may represent a significant weight and balance advantage over the prior art.
An agricultural implement has (i) an elongated open channel member; and (ii) a connecting assembly comprising a first vertical connector plate positioned against a first vertical side of the open member and a second vertical connector plate positioned against a second vertical side of the open member. When the open member twists about a longitudinal axis, its upper and lower flanges will move within upper and lower channels about upper and lower raised surface areas. A clamping assembly includes: a first clamping member extending horizontally between the first vertical plate and the second vertical plate positioned over and proximate an upper surface of the upper flange; a second clamping member extending over and proximate a lower surface of the lower flange; and a third clamping member extending (i) over and proximate a lower surface of the lower flange or (ii) over and proximate an upper surface of the upper flange. A support frame has at least one forward central wheeled support unit connected to the support frame, having at least one first middle wheel operable to freely rotate 360 degrees about a first steering axis. At least one forward outward wheeled support unit is also connected to the support frame and generally transversely aligned with and transversely spaced from the central wheeled support unit, and comprises a restricted rotation caster wheel operable to rotate about a second steering axis only in an outward angular direction from a straightforward direction.
An agricultural implement has (i) an elongated open channel member; and (ii) a connecting assembly comprising a first vertical connector plate positioned against a first vertical side of the open member and a second vertical connector plate positioned against a second vertical side of the open member. When the open member twists about a longitudinal axis, its upper and lower flanges will move within upper and lower channels about upper and lower raised surface areas. A clamping assembly includes: a first clamping member extending horizontally between the first vertical plate and the second vertical plate positioned over and proximate an upper surface of the upper flange; a second clamping member extending over and proximate a lower surface of the lower flange; and a third clamping member extending (i) over and proximate a lower surface of the lower flange or (ii) over and proximate an upper surface of the upper flange. A support frame has at least one forward central wheeled support unit connected to the support frame, having at least one first middle wheel operable to freely rotate 360 degrees about a first steering axis. At least one forward outward wheeled support unit is also connected to the support frame and generally transversely aligned with and transversely spaced from the central wheeled support unit, and comprises a restricted rotation caster wheel operable to rotate about a second steering axis only in an outward angular direction from a straightforward direction.
An agricultural implement has (i) an elongated open channel member; and (ii) a connecting assembly comprising a first vertical connector plate positioned against a first vertical side of the open member and a second vertical connector plate positioned against a second vertical side of the open member. When the open member twists about a longitudinal axis, its upper and lower flanges will move within upper and lower channels about upper and lower raised surface areas. A clamping assembly includes: a first clamping member extending horizontally between the first vertical plate and the second vertical plate positioned over and proximate an upper surface of the upper flange; a second clamping member extending over and proximate a lower surface of the lower flange; and a third clamping member extending (i) over and proximate a lower surface of the lower flange or (ii) over and proximate an upper surface of the upper flange. A support frame has at least one forward central wheeled support unit connected to the support frame, having at least one first middle wheel operable to freely rotate 360 degrees about a first steering axis. At least one forward outward wheeled support unit is also connected to the support frame and generally transversely aligned with and transversely spaced from the central wheeled support unit, and comprises a restricted rotation caster wheel operable to rotate about a second steering axis only in an outward angular direction from a straightforward direction.
A cutting system for a harvesting header includes a transversely extending cutter bar. First and second transversely extending knife backs are supported in relation to the cutter bar and are axially aligned with each other in a transverse direction. The first and second knife backs may each have a main body portion. At least one knife section is mounted to each of the first and second knife backs, each knife section having at least one knife edge extending generally in a forward direction. The first knife back is not attached to said second knife back. A crop divider structure is interconnected to the cutter bar and is operationally positioned between said first and second knife backs. The cutting system may also include first and second knife heads interconnected to the first and second knife backs and operable for interconnecting a knife drive system to drive the first and second knife backs.
A01D 34/135 - Cutting apparatus having oppositely movable cooperating knife-bars
A01D 34/412 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having rotating cutters
A01D 34/64 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having rotating cutters having cutters rotating about a vertical axis mounted on a vehicle, e.g. a tractor, or drawn by an animal or a vehicle
A01D 43/10 - Mowers combined with apparatus performing additional operations while mowing with means for crushing or bruising the mown crop
An apparatus, which may be a tillage apparatus, is disclosed that may have a flexible frame. The frame may be made from open members. The frame may support ground engagers and may be supported on wheel assemblies. The ground engagers may be connected to a spring trip mechanism. The ground engagers may be mounted to open members of the frame with a clamping style mechanism. The clamp mechanism may include wedge devices. The frame may be lowered and raised relative to wheels of the wheel assemblies with a lift mechanism. One row of ground engagers may be raised or lowered relative to the frame independent of another row of ground engagers. An anti-skid or skew control system may be employed in association with the independent height adjustment of one row of ground engagers. A system may be provided to maintain and control the height of a tow hitch forming part of the apparatus.
A01B 51/04 - Undercarriages specially adapted for mounting-on various kinds of agricultural tools or apparatus drawn by animal or tractor
A01B 73/04 - Folding frames foldable about a horizontal axis
A01B 61/04 - Devices for, or parts of, agricultural machines or implements for preventing overstrain of the connection between tools and carrier beam or frame
A01B 33/02 - Tilling implements with rotary driven tools with tools on horizontal shaft transverse to direction of travel
13.
HARVESTING CAM REEL WITH CONVERTIBLE TRANSPORT MODE
A cam reel for use on a harvesting header that can be configured in both operating and transport positions is provided. The reel comprises a plurality of finger-bearing reel bats disposed evenly around the reel shaft, each rotatably attached through the distal ends of radial arms extending outwardly from the reel shaft. A cam disc is attached to the frame and engages each reel bat by a cam follower, to provide rotational movement of the reel bats relative to the radial arms, during rotation of the shaft in the operating position. The cam has at least one operating position, and a transport position in which the engaged reel bats will be pivoted into transport mode that substantially reduces the risk of damage to the fingers.
A01D 57/02 - Devices for leading crops to the mowing apparatus using reels
A01D 57/03 - Devices for leading crops to the mowing apparatus using reels with supplementary controlled movement of the crop-engaging members, e.g. of the tines
A01D 34/01 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus
A01D 57/20 - Delivering mechanisms for harvesters or mowers with conveyor belts
An agricultural implement assembly, which may comprise a support frame and a tine support structure for supporting a plurality of tine members. The assembly may comprise a clamping mechanism operable for securing the tine members to the tine support structure. The clamping mechanism comprises an upper clamping arm, a lower clamping arm and a medial connecting member which are operable to securely hold or otherwise constrain the tine members against or in close proximity to the tine support structure. The clamping mechanism may comprise a tine angled portion engaging component operable to engage an upper surface of the angled end portion of the tine member. The upper and lower clamping arms may comprise at least one upper ridge and at least one lower ridge for engaging in contact with a first portion and a second portion respectively of outward facing surface regions of the tine support structure.
An agricultural implement assembly, which may comprise a support frame and a tine support structure for supporting a plurality of tine members. The assembly may comprise a clamping mechanism operable for securing the tine members to the tine support structure. The clamping mechanism comprises an upper clamping arm, a lower clamping arm and a medial connecting member which are operable to securely hold or otherwise constrain the tine members against or in close proximity to the tine support structure. The clamping mechanism may comprise a tine angled portion engaging component operable to engage an upper surface of the angled end portion of the tine member. The upper and lower clamping arms may comprise at least one upper ridge and at least one lower ridge for engaging in contact with a first portion and a second portion respectively of outward facing surface regions of the tine support structure.
A header includes a forwardly disposed cutter bar assembly and a rearwardly disposed draper deck assembly. The draper seal includes a flexible strip that runs parallel to the cutter bar assembly and perpendicular to the direction of travel. A bracket secures the forward edge of the flexible strip to an upper surface of the cutter bar assembly, which bracket also biases a rearward edge of the flexible strip into engagement with an upper surface of the draper deck assembly, thereby creating a seal between the cutter bar assembly and the draper deck assembly.
A01D 34/04 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having reciprocating cutters mounted on a vehicle, e.g. a tractor, or drawn by an animal or a vehicle with cutters at the front
A cutting system for a harvesting header includes a transversely extending cutter bar, a transversely extending knife back, a knife section mounted to the knife back having a knife edge extending generally in a forward direction, a knife guard component having a front guard portion and a rear portion interconnected by a medial portion having a recess. The medial portion is configured for receiving a lengthwise portion of the knife back with the knife section being received into, and the knife section is operable to move transversely into and out of a cutting slot in the front guard portion. A hold down component is located between an upper surface of the rear portion of the knife guard component and an underneath surface of the cutter bar, and an attachment mechanism is operable to secure the knife guard component and the hold down component to the underneath surface of the cutter bar.
A01D 34/412 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having rotating cutters
A01D 34/135 - Cutting apparatus having oppositely movable cooperating knife-bars
A01D 34/64 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having rotating cutters having cutters rotating about a vertical axis mounted on a vehicle, e.g. a tractor, or drawn by an animal or a vehicle
A01D 43/10 - Mowers combined with apparatus performing additional operations while mowing with means for crushing or bruising the mown crop
A harvesting header is disclosed that comprises a support frame and a crop moving apparatus supported on the support frame and operable for moving cut crop material to a transfer region. The header also has a cavity located proximate and lower than an output end of the crop moving apparatus. The header has a crop flow assistance device having a plurality of transversely spaced elements that extend generally longitudinally at least partially above the cavity, and which are operable to assist cut crop material in being transferred from the output end of the moving apparatus to flow over the cavity. The cavity may be operable to receive rocks and/or debris carried by the conveyor to the transfer region. The header may include a rock trap located in the transfer region the cavity being part of the rock trap and may be operable to receive rocks and/or debris carried by the conveyor to the transfer region.
An apparatus, which may be a tillage apparatus, has a flexible frame. The frame may be made from open members. The frame may support ground engagers and may be supported on wheel assemblies. The ground engagers may be connected to a spring trip mechanism. The ground engagers may be mounted to open members of the frame with a clamping style mechanism. The clamp mechanism may include wedge devices. The frame may be lowered and raised relative to wheels of the wheel assemblies with a lift mechanism. One row of ground engagers may be raised or lowered relative to the frame independent of another row of ground engagers. An anti-skid or skew control system may be employed in association with the independent height adjustment of one row of ground engagers. A system may be provided to maintain and control the height of a tow hitch forming part of the apparatus.
A01B 51/04 - Undercarriages specially adapted for mounting-on various kinds of agricultural tools or apparatus drawn by animal or tractor
A01B 73/04 - Folding frames foldable about a horizontal axis
A01B 61/04 - Devices for, or parts of, agricultural machines or implements for preventing overstrain of the connection between tools and carrier beam or frame
A01B 33/02 - Tilling implements with rotary driven tools with tools on horizontal shaft transverse to direction of travel
An apparatus, which may be a tillage apparatus, may have a flexible frame. The frame may be made from open members. The frame may support ground engagers and may be supported on wheel assemblies. The ground engagers may be connected to a spring trip mechanism. The ground engagers may be mounted to open members of the frame with a clamping style mechanism. The clamp mechanism may include wedge devices. The frame may be lowered and raised relative to wheels of the wheel assemblies with a lift mechanism. One row of ground engagers may be raised or lowered relative to the frame independent of another row of ground engagers. An anti-skid or skew control system may be employed in association with the independent height adjustment of one row of ground engagers. A system may be provided to maintain and control the height of a tow hitch forming part of the apparatus.
A01B 51/04 - Undercarriages specially adapted for mounting-on various kinds of agricultural tools or apparatus drawn by animal or tractor
A01B 73/04 - Folding frames foldable about a horizontal axis
A01B 61/04 - Devices for, or parts of, agricultural machines or implements for preventing overstrain of the connection between tools and carrier beam or frame
A01B 33/02 - Tilling implements with rotary driven tools with tools on horizontal shaft transverse to direction of travel
A crop harvesting header including a pickup reel mounted for rotation about a reel axis includes a plurality of reel bats peripherally disposed and having outwardly extending fingers rotatable about a bat axis. A cam track surrounding the reel axis includes a cam surface and a guide surface. A linkage associated with each reel bat has first and second cam followers that engage the cam surface at first and second contact points displacing the linkage while traversing the cam track, the linkage being coupled to cause rotation of the reel bat about the bat axis for changing an angle of attack of the fingers. A guide follower engages the guide surface at a third contact point between the first and second contact points and is offset to cause the first and second cam followers and the guide follower to maintain contact with the guide surface while traversing the cam track.
A01D 57/02 - Devices for leading crops to the mowing apparatus using reels
A01D 57/03 - Devices for leading crops to the mowing apparatus using reels with supplementary controlled movement of the crop-engaging members, e.g. of the tines
A01D 57/04 - Arrangements for changing the position of the reels
A knife drive assembly for use in a harvesting header may be mounted near the center line of the cutter bar of the header. Mechanical power from the power unit behind the header (typically the combine power output shaft) may be translated for application to two knife assembly sections in the cutter bar at the front of the cutter table. Movement of the two knife assembly sections with this apparatus can be fully synchronized and 180 degrees out of phase, to maximize cutting effectiveness and minimize vibration of the header. The unitary drive assembly may allow for rapid repair and manufacture, and the size and weight of the knife drive assembly may represent a significant weight and balance advantage over the prior art.
A header includes a forwardly disposed cutter bar assembly and a rearwardly disposed draper deck assembly. The draper seal includes a flexible strip that runs parallel to the cutter bar assembly and perpendicular to the direction of travel. A bracket secures the forward edge of the flexible strip to an upper surface of the cutter bar assembly, which bracket also biases a rearward edge of the flexible strip into engagement with an upper surface of the draper deck assembly, thereby creating a seal between the cutter bar assembly and the draper deck assembly.
A01D 34/04 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having reciprocating cutters mounted on a vehicle, e.g. a tractor, or drawn by an animal or a vehicle with cutters at the front
A crop harvesting header including a pickup reel mounted for rotation about a reel axis includes a plurality of reel bats peripherally disposed and having outwardly extending fingers rotatable about a bat axis. A cam track surrounding the reel axis includes a cam surface and a guide surface. A linkage associated with each reel bat has first and second cam followers that engage the cam surface at first and second contact points displacing the linkage while traversing the cam track, the linkage being coupled to cause rotation of the reel bat about the bat axis for changing an angle of attack of the fingers. A guide follower engages the guide surface at a third contact point between the first and second contact points and is offset to cause the first and second cam followers and the guide follower to maintain contact with the guide surface while traversing the cam track.
A01D 57/03 - Devices for leading crops to the mowing apparatus using reels with supplementary controlled movement of the crop-engaging members, e.g. of the tines
An apparatus, which may be a tillage apparatus may have a flexible frame. The frame may be made from transverse and longitudinal open members. The frame may support ground engagers and may be supported on wheel assemblies. The ground engagers may be connected to a spring trip mechanism. The ground engagers may be mounted to open members of the frame with a clamping style mechanism. The clamp mechanism may include wedge devices. The frame may be lowered and raised relative to wheels of the wheel assemblies with a lift mechanism. One row of ground engagers may be raised or lowered relative to the frame independent of another row of ground engagers. An anti-skid or skew control system may be employed in association with the independent height adjustment of one row of ground engagers. A system may be provided to maintain and control the height of a tow hitch forming part of the apparatus.
A01B 51/04 - Undercarriages specially adapted for mounting-on various kinds of agricultural tools or apparatus drawn by animal or tractor
A01B 73/04 - Folding frames foldable about a horizontal axis
A01B 61/04 - Devices for, or parts of, agricultural machines or implements for preventing overstrain of the connection between tools and carrier beam or frame
A01B 33/02 - Tilling implements with rotary driven tools with tools on horizontal shaft transverse to direction of travel
An apparatus, which may be a tillage apparatus, is disclosed that may have a flexible frame. The frame may be made from open members. The frame may support ground engagers and may be supported on wheel assemblies. The ground engagers may be connected to a spring trip mechanism. The ground engagers may be mounted to open members of the frame with a clamping style mechanism. The clamp mechanism may include wedge devices. The frame may be lowered and raised relative to wheels of the wheel assemblies with a lift mechanism. One row of ground engagers may be raised or lowered relative to the frame independent of another row of ground engagers. An anti-skid or skew control system may be employed in association with the independent height adjustment of one row of ground engagers. A system may be provided to maintain and control the height of a tow hitch forming part of the apparatus.
A method, apparatus and system for controlling positioning of an agricultural implement is disclosed. The agricultural implement is mounted on a propulsion unit having a positioning system. A position signal is received from a position sensor representing a position of the agricultural implement relative to the ground, and while a difference between the position and a desired position is greater than a threshold difference, a controller produces and transmits an output signal having a control state that alternates successively between an active time during which the output signal causes the positioning system to move the agricultural implement towards the desired position, and an inactive time during which the output signal causes the positioning system to discontinue movement. The respective times are based on a positioning response time and are operable to permit the agricultural implement to settle in a non-transient position during the inactive time while receiving the position signal.
A01B 63/00 - Lifting or adjusting devices or arrangements for agricultural machines or implements
A01B 63/111 - Lifting or adjusting devices or arrangements for agricultural machines or implements for implements mounted on tractors operated by hydraulic or pneumatic means regulating working depth of implements
A cutting system for a harvesting header includes a transversely extending cutter bar, a transversely extending knife back, a knife section mounted to the knife back having a knife edge extending generally in a forward direction, a knife guard component having a front guard portion and a rear portion interconnected by a medial portion having a recess. The medial portion is configured for receiving a lengthwise portion of the knife back with the knife section being received into, and the knife section is operable to move transversely into and out of a cutting slot in the front guard portion. A hold down component is located between an upper surface of the rear portion of the knife guard component and an underneath surface of the cutter bar, and an attachment mechanism is operable to secure the knife guard component and the hold down component to the underneath surface of the cutter bar.
A01D 34/412 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having rotating cutters
A01D 34/135 - Cutting apparatus having oppositely movable cooperating knife-bars
A01D 34/64 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having rotating cutters having cutters rotating about a vertical axis mounted on a vehicle, e.g. a tractor, or drawn by an animal or a vehicle
A01D 43/10 - Mowers combined with apparatus performing additional operations while mowing with means for crushing or bruising the mown crop
The disclosure describes a cutting system for a harvesting header, which includes a transversely extending cutter bar, a transversely extending knife back, a knife section mounted to the knife back having a knife edge extending generally in a forward direction, a knife guard component having a front guard portion and a rear portion interconnected by a medial portion having a recess, the medial portion for receiving a lengthwise portion of the knife back with the knife section being received into, the knife section operable to move transversely into and out of a cutting slot in the front guard portion, a hold down component located between an upper surface of the rear portion of the knife guard component and an underneath surface of the cutter bar, and an attachment mechanism operable to secure the knife guard component and the hold down component to the underneath surface of the cutter bar.
A method and apparatus for controlling positioning of an agricultural implement relative to the ground is disclosed. The method involves receiving first and second position signals representing respective first and second positions of the agricultural implement relative to the ground and providing input to a controller for controlling the positioning of the agricultural implement. The method involves receiving an intermediate position signal representing an intermediate position of the agricultural implement and being associated with an intermediate location between locations respective first and second positions. When the intermediate position signal represents a position that is closer to the ground than a threshold intermediate distance due to a ground inconsistency, the method involves modifying the first and second position signals based on the intermediate position signal to represent positions that are closer to the ground to cause the controller to lift the agricultural implement to clear the ground inconsistency.
A draper seal for a crop harvesting header is provided. The header includes a forwardly disposed cutter bar assembly and a rearwardly disposed draper deck assembly. The draper seal includes a flexible strip that runs parallel to the cutter bar assembly and perpendicular to the direction of travel. A bracket secures the forward edge of the flexible strip to an upper surface of the cutter bar assembly, which bracket also biases a rearward edge of the flexible strip into engagement with an upper surface of the draper deck assembly, thereby creating a seal between the cutter bar assembly and the draper deck assembly.
A01D 34/04 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having reciprocating cutters mounted on a vehicle, e.g. a tractor, or drawn by an animal or a vehicle with cutters at the front
An apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus includes a harvesting header; a harvesting header carrier; at least one retractor and at least one tension link coupled to the at least one retractor, said at least one retractor and said at least one tension link connected to the harvesting header and the harvesting header carrier; wherein the at least one retractor is operable to retract the at least one tension link to shorten the at least one tension link and cause the harvesting header carrier to be lifted towards and engage with the harvesting header. Further apparatuses, systems and methods are also disclosed.
A harvesting header bat having a channel for removably receiving alternating quick-release fingers and spacers is provided. The spacers are capable of production in different lengths to support different applications of the harvesting header. The quick-release finger is provided with projections configured for mating with flanges at the channel opening, enabling the finger to be inserted into the channel in a first orientation and then rotated into a second orientation to engage the flanges and releasably lock the finger in place. The spacers are also configured to engage the flanges of the channel and may be provided in different lengths where a particular harvesting header application requires a certain distance between fingers on the bat.
A method for conditioning at least one control signal transmitted by a controller is disclosed. The method involves intercepting the control signal and producing at least one output signal for receipt by the positioning system instead of the control signal in response to the control signal. The output signal represents a plurality of active times during which the positioning system is instructed to move the agricultural implement towards the at least one desired position and a plurality of inactive times during which the positioning system is instructed not to move, each active time being followed by a respective one of the plurality of inactive times. Each of the plurality of inactive times is sufficiently long to permit the agricultural implement to settle into a fixed position due to a positioning response time of the positioning system. Other methods, apparatuses, systems, and computer-readable media are also disclosed.
A farm implement is provided. A support frame of the farm implement is adapted for being coupled to a hitch of a tractor. A plurality of rows of tines is disposed successively in a direction of operation of the farm implement. Each row of the tines is mounted to a respective tine support structure with each tine support structure being pivotally movable mounted to the support frame. An actuating mechanism is connected to each tine support structure for moving the tines between a transport position and an operating position.
A crop harvesting header includes a reel rotatable about a reel axis. The reel has a reel bat supported at a spaced distance from the reel axis. The reel bat can pivot about a bat axis radially spaced from the reel axis. The reel bat has a crop collection member that extends generally away from the bat axis. The reel bat can move in a cyclical path around the reel axis during rotation of the reel. The reel bat can vary the angle of the crop collection member about the bat axis as the reel rotates about the reel axis. A sun gear is provided that may be positioned in axial alignment with the reel axis. A planetary gear system is rotatable about the sun gear. The planetary gear system interacts with the sun gear, and causes said planetary gear system to effect pivotal movement of the reel bat about its bat axis.
A01D 57/03 - Devices for leading crops to the mowing apparatus using reels with supplementary controlled movement of the crop-engaging members, e.g. of the tines
A crop harvesting header includes a reel rotatable about a reel axis. The reel has a reel bat supported at a spaced distance from the reel axis. The reel bat can pivot about a bat axis radially spaced from the reel axis. The reel bat has a crop collection member that extends generally away from the bat axis. The reel bat can move in a cyclical path around the reel axis during rotation of the reel. The reel bat can vary the angle of the crop collection member about the bat axis as the reel rotates about the reel axis. A sun gear is provided that may be positioned in axial alignment with the reel axis. A planetary gear system is rotatable about the sun gear. The planetary gear system interacts with the sun gear, and causes said planetary gear system to effect pivotal movement of the reel bat about its bat axis.
A crop harvesting header includes a reel rotatable about a reel axis. The reel has a reel bat supported at a spaced distance from the reel axis. The reel bat can pivot about a bat axis radially spaced from the reel axis. The reel bat has a crop collection member that extends generally away from the bat axis. The reel bat can move in a cyclical path around the reel axis during rotation of the reel. The reel bat can vary the angle of the crop collection member about the bat axis as the reel rotates about the reel axis. A sun gear is provided that may be positioned in axial alignment with the reel axis. A planetary gear system is rotatable about the sun gear. The planetary gear system interacts with the sun gear, and causes said planetary gear system to effect pivotal movement of the reel bat about its bat axis.
A knife drive assembly for use in a harvesting header is disclosed. The knife drive may be mounted near the center line of the cutter bar of the header. Mechanical power from the power unit behind the header (typically the combine power output shaft) may be translated for application to two knife assembly sections in the cutter bar at the front of the cutter table. Movement of the two knife assembly sections with this apparatus can be fully synchronized and 180 degrees out of phase, to maximize cutting effectiveness and minimize vibration of the header. The unitary drive assembly may allow for rapid repair and manufacture, and the size and weight of the knife drive assembly may represent a significant weight and balance advantage over the prior art.
A method for conditioning at least one control signal transmitted by a controller is disclosed. The method involves intercepting the control signal and producing at least one output signal for receipt by the positioning system instead of the control signal in response to the control signal. The output signal represents a plurality of active times during which the positioning system is instructed to move the agricultural implement towards the at least one desired position and a plurality of inactive times during which the positioning system is instructed not to move, each active time being followed by a respective one of the plurality of inactive times. Each of the plurality of inactive times is sufficiently long to permit the agricultural implement to settle into a fixed position due to a positioning response time of the positioning system. Other methods, apparatuses, systems, and computer- readable media are also disclosed.
A method, apparatus, and system for producing at least one control signal for controlling a positioning system having a positioning response time is disclosed. The apparatus includes a processor configured to receive at least one position signal representing a position of the agricultural implement and to receive at least one desired position signal representing at least one desired position of the agricultural implement. The apparatus is also operably configured to derive the control signal from a difference between the position and the desired position, and produce the control signal for receipt by the positioning system. The control signal represents a plurality of active times during which the positioning system is instructed to move the agricultural implement towards the at least one desired position and a plurality of inactive times during which the positioning system is instructed not to move, each active time being followed by a respective one of the plurality of inactive times. Each of the inactive times has a respective time length determined to permit the agricultural implement to settle into a fixed position due to the positioning response time.
A knife drive assembly for use in a harvesting header is disclosed. The knife drive may be mounted near the center line of the cutter bar of the header. Mechanical power from the power unit behind the header (typically the combine power output shaft) may be translated for application to two knife assembly sections in the cutter bar at the front of the cutter table. Movement of the two knife assembly sections with this apparatus can be fully synchronized and 180 degrees out of phase, to maximize cutting effectiveness and minimize vibration of the header. The unitary drive assembly may allow for rapid repair and manufacture, and the size and weight of the knife drive assembly may represent a significant weight and balance advantage over the prior art.
A knife drive assembly for use in a harvesting header is disclosed. The knife drive may be mounted near the center line of the cutter bar of the header. Mechanical power from the power unit behind the header (typically the combine power output shaft) may be translated for application to two knife assembly sections in the cutter bar at the front of the cutter table. Movement of the two knife assembly sections with this apparatus can be fully synchronized and 180 degrees out of phase, to maximize cutting effectiveness and minimize vibration of the header. The unitary drive assembly may allow for rapid repair and manufacture, and the size and weight of the knife drive assembly may represent a significant weight and balance advantage over the prior art.
A knife drive assembly for use in a harvesting header is disclosed. The knife drive may be mounted near the center line of the cutter bar of the header. Mechanical power from the power unit behind the header (typically the combine power output shaft) may be translated for application to two knife assembly sections in the cutter bar at the front of the cutter table. Movement of the two knife assembly sections with this apparatus can be fully synchronized and 180 degrees out of phase, to maximize cutting effectiveness and minimize vibration of the header. The unitary drive assembly may allow for rapid repair and manufacture, and the size and weight of the knife drive assembly may represent a significant weight and balance advantage over the prior art.
A crop flow assistance device for a harvesting header comprises a curved member mounted in relation to the rear wall of the header, with a top edge positioned within the draper table area of the header and a concave-curved shield surface. The shield will deflect or roll crop material during operation back into the draper area, so that crop material is not thrown up over the back of the header and is directed to the discharge. This will be particularly advantageous in the harvesting of peas and other dense or tangling crop material which have a tendency to bind or ball in harvest with traditional headers.
A cam reel for use on a harvesting header that can be configured in both operating and transport positions. The reel comprises a plurality of finger-bearing reel bats disposed evenly around the reel shaft, each rotatably attached through the distal ends of radial arms extending outwardly from the reel shaft. A cam disc is attached to the flame and engages each reel bat by a cam follower, to provide rotational movement of the reel bats relative to the radial arms, during rotation of the shaft in the operating position. The cam has at least one operating position, and a transport position in which the engaged reel bats will be pivoted into transport mode that substantially reduces the risk of damage to the fingers.
An apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus includes a harvesting header; a harvesting header carrier; at least one retractor and at least one tension link coupled to the at least one retractor, said at least one retractor and said at least one tension link connected to the harvesting header and the harvesting header carrier; wherein the at least one retractor is operable to retract the at least one tension link to shorten the at least one tension link and cause the harvesting header carrier to be lifted towards and engage with the harvesting header. Further apparatuses, systems and methods are also disclosed.
A cam reel for use on a harvesting header that can be configured in both operating and transport positions is provided. The reel comprises a plurality of finger-bearing reel bats disposed evenly around the reel shaft, each rotatably attached through the distal ends of radial arms extending outwardly from the reel shaft. A cam disc is attached to the frame and engages each reel bat by a cam follower, to provide rotational movement of the reel bats relative to the radial arms, during rotation of the shaft in the operating position. The cam has at least one operating position, and a transport position in which the engaged reel bats will be pivoted into transport mode that substantially reduces the risk of damage to the fingers.
A01D 57/02 - Devices for leading crops to the mowing apparatus using reels
A01D 34/01 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus
A01D 57/20 - Delivering mechanisms for harvesters or mowers with conveyor belts
A01D 57/03 - Devices for leading crops to the mowing apparatus using reels with supplementary controlled movement of the crop-engaging members, e.g. of the tines
A harvesting header includes.at least one draper belt system including a conveying surface operable to carry cut crop material in a conveying direction generally transverse to a direction of travel of the harvesting header in operation to a header discharge. The header includes a crop reel rotatable about a crop reel axis, said axis generally parallel with the conveying direction, said crop reel operable to, when rotated in operation, draw crop material onto the conveying surface and at least one crop flow assistance device having a crop flow assistance surface that extends into a volume above the conveying surface, said volume defined by the conveying surface and projected perpendicular to said conveying surface, said crop flow assistance surface operable to roll crop material onto the conveying surface while the crop material is carried to the header discharge in operation.
A01D 43/00 - Mowers combined with apparatus performing additional operations while mowing
A01D 57/02 - Devices for leading crops to the mowing apparatus using reels
A01D 34/01 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus
A01D 57/20 - Delivering mechanisms for harvesters or mowers with conveyor belts
A01D 57/03 - Devices for leading crops to the mowing apparatus using reels with supplementary controlled movement of the crop-engaging members, e.g. of the tines
A cam reel for use on a harvesting header which includes a plurality of reel bats disposed evenly around the reel shaft, each attached to radial arms extending outwardly from the reel shaft by bat arms pivotally attached to the radial anus such that the bat member itself can pivot about a pivot axis around the end of the radial arms. The reel ends of the radial anus define a circular bat path and the reel bats once attached can be pivoted about the pivot axis, parallel to the reel axis, in a bat pivot path to move both inside and outside of the radius of the circular bat path. The reel can be attached to various header assemblies using interchangeable end kits. A header using the reel is also disclosed.
A01D 57/02 - Devices for leading crops to the mowing apparatus using reels
A01D 57/03 - Devices for leading crops to the mowing apparatus using reels with supplementary controlled movement of the crop-engaging members, e.g. of the tines
A cam reel for use on a harvesting header which includes a plurality of reel bats disposed evenly around the reel shaft, each attached to radial arms extending outwardly from the reel shaft by bat arms pivotally attached to the radial arms such that the bat member itself can pivot about a pivot axis around the end of the radial arms. The reel ends of the radial arms define a circular bat path and the reel bats once attached can be pivoted about the pivot axis, parallel to the reel axis, in a bat pivot path to move both inside and outside of the radius of the circular bat path. The reel can be attached to various header assemblies using interchangeable end kits. A header using the reel is also disclosed.
A transport system for transport of a harvesting header comprises separate front and rear carriers in a configuration that permits a single person to prepare a harvesting header for transport. The wheeled front carrier engages a support member attached to one end of the harvesting header and includes a towing member and means of connecting the front carrier to a towing vehicle. A wheeled rear carrier comprises deployable straps that can be attached to the harvesting header. A winch applies tension to the straps and on retraction pulls the rear carrier up and into position underneath the header. The harvesting header is then lowered to transfer the weight to the carriers and the header then disconnected from the combine, and is ready for transport.
A harvesting header bat having a channel for removably receiving alternating quick-release fingers and spacers is provided. The spacers are capable of production in different lengths to support different applications of the harvesting header. The quick-release finger is provided with projections configured for mating with flanges at the channel opening, enabling the finger to be inserted into the channel in a first orientation and then rotated into a second orientation to engage the flanges and releasably lock the finger in place. The spacers are also configured to engage the flanges of the channel and may be provided in different lengths where a particular harvesting header application requires a certain distance between fingers on the bat.
A harvesting header bat having a channel for removably receiving alternating quick-release fingers and spacers, the spacers being capable of production in different lengths to support different applications of the harvesting header. The quick-release finger is provided with projections configured for mating with flanges at the channel opening, enabling the finger to be inserted into the channel in a first orientation and then rotated into a second orientation to engage the flanges and releasably lock the finger in place. The spacers are also configured to engage the flanges of the channel and may be provided in different lengths where a particular harvesting header application requires a certain distance between fingers on the bat.
A draper seal for a crop harvesting header including a forwardly disposed cutter bar assembly and a rearwardly disposed draper deck assembly. The draper seal includes a flexible strip that runs parallel to the cutter bar assembly and perpendicular to the direction of travel. A bracket secures the forward edge of the flexible strip to an upper surface of the cutter bar assembly, which bracket also biases a rearward edge of the flexible strip into engagement with an upper surface of the draper deck assembly, thereby creating a seal between the cutter bar assembly and the draper deck assembly.
A draper seal for a crop harvesting header, the header comprising a forwardly disposed cutter bar assembly and a rearwardly disposed draper deck assembly. The draper seal comprises a flexible strip that runs parallel to the cutter bar assembly and perpendicular to the direction of travel. A bracket secures the forward edge of the flexible strip to an upper surface of the cutter bar assembly, which bracket also biases a rearward edge of the flexible strip into engagement with an upper surface of the draper deck assembly, thereby creating a seal between the cutter bar assembly and the draper deck assembly.
Agricultural implements, accessories and controls therefor, namely, harvesting headers for attachment to combines, windrowers, swathers, tractors and self-propelled agricultural power units
(Based on 44(e)) (Based on Use in Commerce) Agricultural implements, namely, swathers, combine harvesters, crop sprayers, harvesting headers for attachment to tractors or other power implements, rod weeders; replacement parts for all of the foregoing
(1) Agricultural implements, accessories and controls therefore, namely harvesting headers for attachment to combines or other power units and/or equipment
37 - Construction and mining; installation and repair services
44 - Medical, veterinary, hygienic and cosmetic services; agriculture, horticulture and forestry services
Goods & Services
Agricultural implements and parts therefore; agricultural implements other than hand-operated. Repair or maintenance of agricultural machines and implements. Rental of agricultural equipment.
37 - Construction and mining; installation and repair services
44 - Medical, veterinary, hygienic and cosmetic services; agriculture, horticulture and forestry services
Goods & Services
Agricultural implements and parts therefor; Agricultural implements other than hand-operated. Repair or maintenance of agricultural machines and implements. Rental of agricultural equipment.
37 - Construction and mining; installation and repair services
Goods & Services
(1) Agricultural equipment, namely, swathers, combine harvesters, crop sprayers, harvesting headers for attachment to tractors and other power implements, rod weeders, and parts and accessories therefor. (1) Retail and wholesale sales of agricultural equipment and parts and accessories therefor; service and repair of agricultural equipment.
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
Goods & Services
Control systems for use in agricultural applications comprised of computer control hardware and software combinations for the integrated monitoring, power and control of fixed or mobile assets in agricultural applications, using an integrated control network; cab monitoring devices for use in agricultural applications, namely monitoring computer hardware by which an operator of an agricultural implement can monitor and control fixed or mobile assets in agricultural applications; network power and electronic controllers for use in agricultural applications, namely power and electronic controllers and electric and timing sensors and computer hardware and software combinations which are used to create an integrated control network for use in agricultural environments, to which network fixed or mobile agricultural assets fitted with necessary network interface hardware can be connected to the integrated control network for centralized or consolidated monitoring and control; network interface hardware for use in agricultural applications, namely power and electronic controllers and electric and timing sensors and computer hardware and software combinations which are used to attach fixed or mobile agricultural assets to an integrated control network, by which an agricultural operator can centrally monitor and control those assets; control software for use in an integrated control network on a combination of fixed or mobile assets in agricultural applications to allow for integrated and standardized monitoring, power or control of same
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
Goods & Services
(1) Control systems for use in agricultural applications, namely control hardware and software combinations for the integrated monitoring, power and control of agricultural equipment in agricultural applications, using an integrated control network; Cab monitors for use in agricultural applications, namely monitoring hardware by which an operator of an agricultural implement can monitor and control agricultural equipment in agricultural applications; Network controllers for use in agricultural applications, namely controllers and related sensors and hardware and software combinations which are used to create an integrated control network for use in agricultural environments, to which agricultural equipment fitted with necessary network interface hardware can be connected to the integrated control network for centralized and consolidated monitoring and control of the aforesaid agricultural equipment; Network interface hardware for use in agricultural applications, namely controllers and related sensors and hardware and software combinations which are used to attach agricultural equipment to an integrated control network, by which an agricultural operator can centrally monitor and control the aforesaid agricultural equipment; Control software for use in an integrated control network on a combination of agricultural equipment in agricultural applications to allow for integrated and standardized monitoring, power and control of the aforesaid agricultural equipment.
agricultural implements, namely, swathers, [ combine harvesters, crop spraying equipment, ] harvesting headers for attachment to tractors or other power implements [, rod weeders; parts and accessories for agricultural implements including swathers, combine harvesters, crop spraying equipment, harvesting headers for attachment to tractors or other power implements, rod weeders ]
37 - Construction and mining; installation and repair services
Goods & Services
(1) Agricultural equipment and parts therefor (1) Retail and wholesale sales of agricultural equipment and parts therefor; service and repair of agricultural equipment
Agricultural implements, namely, swathers, combine harvesters, crop sprayers, harvesting headers for attachment to tractors or other power implements, rod weeders; replacement parts for all of the foregoing
A rock trap disposed in a feeder adapter of a combine directly behind a sickle bar of a combine header and in an area in front of a rearwardly directed conveyor located for receiving cut crop from transversely directed conveyor of the header. The rock trap has a trap door which can be selectively opened so as to drop beneath the header rocks collected therein.
A rock trap disposed in a feeder adapter of a combine directly behind a sickle bar of a combine header and in an area in front of a rearwardly directed conveyor located for receiving cut crop from transversely directed conveyor of the header. The rock trap has a trap door which can be selectively opened so as to drop beneath the header rocks collected therein.
A light weight wheel structure having a hub member of substantially an elongated configuration of constant cross section defining a plurality of openings therethrough, and including a pair of end plates which are held in recessed areas at opposite ends of the hub member by way of a plurality of fasteners extending through the plurality of openings in the hub member. The hub member is of a form capable of being formed of material, such as aluminum, by an extrusion process, whereby a continuous outer cylindrical surface is provided for the mounting of a tire formed of elastomeric material.
