CNH AMERICA LLC Patent applications |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20150272006 | DENSITY CONTROL SYSTEM - Density control system for an agricultural baler having a baling chamber including a plurality of walls with at least one movable wall section, an intake duct leading into the baling chamber, and a plunger for compressing charges of crop material to a package in the chamber, an actuator for adjusting the position of the at least one movable wall section in response to an output of the density control system to vary the density of said package, wherein the density control system has a sensor for measuring the position of the at least one movable wall section, a comparator for comparing said position with a threshold position and a decision module configured to stop the movement of the actuator means when the position exceeds the threshold position. | 10-01-2015 |
20150245562 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF CONTROLLING AIRFLOW CHARACTERISTICS IN AN AGRICULTURAL HARVESTER - An agricultural harvesting system including a chassis, an agricultural product moving device coupled to the chassis, an airflow system, a cleaning system and an airflow characterizing system. The cleaning system is configured to receive the agricultural product from the moving device. The cleaning system is configured to receive an airflow from the airflow system. The airflow characterizing system is at least partially positioned in the airflow, and is configured to measure an airflow profile across the cleaning system. The airflow characterizing system includes a plurality of sensors that determine airflow by measuring a thermal transfer from the sensors to the airflow. The airflow characterizing system being configured to maintain a substantially constant electrical resistance of the sensors as the airflow varies. The airflow characteristics are measured in the cleaning system and are used to improve the cleaning capacity of the harvesting system. | 09-03-2015 |
20150245556 | Variable Placement Hinge For Agricultural Implement To Maintain Constant Work Zone Spacing - An agricultural implement is provided that has a variable placement hinge joint that allows adjacent implement sections to flex relative to each other and can be moved by an actuator to control spacing between adjacent work zones defined by the implement sections. This can be done by detecting relative angle changes between adjacent implement sections and moving the hinge joint to maintain a constant distance between the work zones so that row spacing is substantially constant across the entire implement, even between adjacent ground-engaging tools or other working units of different implement sections. | 09-03-2015 |
20150237799 | HYDRAULIC SYSTEM FOR A HEADER OF AN AGRICULTURAL HARVESTER - A hydraulic system for use with an agricultural harvester header is provided. The hydraulic system includes a reversible hydraulic pump that drives a reversible hydraulic motor in a forward or harvesting direction and a reverse or header cleaning direction. The system can further include a second reversible pump similarly driving a second reversible hydraulic motor in forward and reverse directions. The pumps and motors can be used to operate various header implements, e.g., the first pump and motor may be used to operate at least a crop cutting knife and the second pump and motor can be used to operate at least one conveyor. The pumps and motors operate within hydraulic circuits which share their hydraulic fluid with the harvester's hydraulic fluid reservoir, thereby reducing system weight, complexity and maintenance requirements. | 08-27-2015 |
20150208580 | ADJUSTABLE ROW UNIT DECK PLATE FOR A HEADER OF AN AGRICULTURAL HARVESTER - An adjustable row unit for a header of a combine harvester is disclosed. The row unit includes opposed and cooperating curved deck plates that reduce the distance from the upper surfaces of the deck plates to the stripping roll pinch points. The deck plates move in unison and the opening of the stalk receiving gap is variable and subject to coarse and fine adjustment. Coarse adjustment is achieved by moving the deck plates into a selected stalk receiving position and fine adjustment is performed by a yieldable biasing member when the deck plates are in the selected stalk receiving position. | 07-30-2015 |
20150195991 | HEADER HEIGHT CONTROL SYSTEM FOR AN AGRICULTURAL HARVESTER - An improved automatic height adjustment system for use with a header of an agricultural harvester is provided. The system includes apparatus and methods utilizing detection of a light beam at or near the skid plate of a header to adjust the height of the header relative to the ground surface. The apparatus includes an emitter for emitting a beam of light to a receiver. An apertured sensor guide is positioned between the emitter and the receiver. The sensor guide is in communication with a controller. If the body of the sensor guide is detected as blocking passage of light to the receiver then the controller operates an extensible actuator to raise or lower the header relative to the ground surface. The system provides rapid header height adjustment in response to detected changes in elevation of the skid plate as the harvester traverses a crop field. | 07-16-2015 |
20150159529 | DIESEL EXHAUST FLUID TANK BREATHER ASSEMBLY - A diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) delivery system includes a tank for DEF, usually a urea aqueous solution, and a pump receiving the DEF from the tank for pressurization and delivery through a nozzle to the exhaust system of a work machine. A breather assembly is provided for the DEF tank and includes a housing having an inlet for ambient air and a particle filter adjacent the inlet for filtering particles. A hydrophobic membrane is interposed between the particle filter and an outlet leading to the tank for preventing outflow of DEF vapor and condensate. | 06-11-2015 |
20150156968 | MULTIPLE TENT COVER UNLOAD CONTROL SYSTEM - A combine unload control system having a grain tank for storing grain and at least one auger for unloading grain from the grain tank. The control system also includes a first auger cover proximate to the at least one auger, having one or more first auger cutouts disposed on a portion of the first auger cover and a second auger cover proximate to the at least one auger and having one or more second auger cutouts disposed on a portion of the second auger cover. The control system further includes a controller configured to control amounts of grain to pass through the one or more first auger cutouts and the one or more second auger cutouts and flow to the at least one auger by causing the first auger cover and the second auger cover to move relative to each other. | 06-11-2015 |
20150156964 | Weight Distribution Controlled By Sectioned Product Container Of Agricultural Application Implements - A self-propelled agricultural product application implement such as high clearance sprayer and/or spreader is provided that includes a product container that is sectioned. Emptying of the container sections is controlled to approximate a target front-to-back weight distribution of the implement for a substantially long period of time during a product application session. An outlet system having multiple variable outlet arrangements is arranged between the product container and an application arrangement such as a spray boom or a rotary broadcaster. The variable outlet arrangements are configured to allow the container sections to sequentially empty to maintain ballast provided by the store product at relatively later portions of the implement for a relatively longer period of time during the product application session. | 06-11-2015 |
20150150190 | OVERLAPPING SICKLE SECTION FOR A KNIFE ASSEMBLY - An improved knife assembly for use with a header of an agricultural harvester. The assembly includes a knife head, a knife back and a plurality of sickle sections fastened to the knife head and knife back. The sickle sections include first and second portions where a second portion of one knife section overlaps a first portion of an another sickle section when the knife sections are arranged in adjacent relationship. The overlapping areas of the adjacent knife sections include aligned though holes which shared fasteners. The resultant construction reduces the overall knife assembly mass thereby leading to increased cutting speeds and corresponding harvester ground speeds. Additionally, the time and labor associated with manufacture and maintenance is reduced while the assembly strength and force distribution capability is enhanced. | 06-04-2015 |
20150143791 | FLUID CIRCUIT FOR BALE EJECTION WITH RESTRICTED FLOW - The present invention relates to a hydraulic circuit mechanically linked to a panel and agricultural harvesters comprising the same. The hydraulic circuit of the present invention can be used to facilitate the transition of hydraulic states from a quick speed to a slow speed, when opening and closing the panel. The hydraulic circuit comprises a fluid stop valve comprising a restrictive orifice which, when narrowed, reduces the rate of pressurized fluid flow into a hydraulic actuator during the actuator's extension. The reduced flow of pressurized fluid into the hydraulic cylinder substantially reduces the speed at which the panel opens or closes. | 05-28-2015 |
20150143789 | FLUID CIRCUIT FOR BALE EJECTION - The present invention relates to a hydraulic circuit mechanically linked to a panel and agricultural harvesters comprising the same. The hydraulic circuit of the present invention can be used to facilitate the transition of hydraulic states from a quick speed to a slow speed, when opening and closing the panel. The hydraulic circuit comprises a restrictive orifice and a fluid stop valve that, when opened, diverts the path of pressurized fluid away from a hydraulic actuator during the actuator's extension. The diversion of pressurized fluid away from the hydraulic cylinder or through the restrictive orifice substantially reduces the speed at which the panel opens or closes. | 05-28-2015 |
20150136790 | FLUID STORAGE TANK ASSEMBLY FOR AN OFF-ROAD VEHICLE - In one embodiment, a method for manufacturing a fluid storage tank assembly for an off-road vehicle includes disposing a support ring within a cavity of a rotational mold, in which the cavity is shaped to form a fill spout of the fluid storage tank assembly. The method further includes flowing a liquid polymeric material within the rotational mold such that the liquid polymeric material enters the cavity, directly contacts the support ring, and bonds to the support ring as the liquid polymeric material hardens. | 05-21-2015 |
20150135672 | AIR RECYCLING CONVEYING SYSTEM FOR AN AGRICULTURAL HARVESTER - In another embodiment, a method of harvesting an agricultural product includes guiding the agricultural product through a plurality of inlets in a first direction with a plurality of airflows, separating the agricultural product from the first plurality of airflows, directing the agricultural product to a cross-conveyor, conveying the agricultural product through the cross-conveyor from the plurality of inlets to an outlet in a second direction, and guiding the agricultural product through the outlet in a third direction with a second airflow. The first direction is substantially parallel to a travel direction, the second direction is crosswise to the first direction, and the third direction is substantially parallel to the travel direction. The agricultural product is conveyed through the cross-conveyor substantially without the first plurality of airflows, and the second airflow includes the first plurality of airflows. | 05-21-2015 |
20150128834 | PRESSURE CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AN AGRICULTURAL PLANTER - A planter system includes a planter having an unloading valve and a controller. The unloading valve is fluidly coupled between an inlet and an outlet of a pump. The unloading valve is configured to receive a fluid at a supply pressure, to supply a first portion of the fluid from the inlet to a hydraulic planter system at an unloading pressure less than the supply pressure, and to recirculate a remainder of the fluid to the pump via the outlet. The controller is communicatively coupled to the unloading valve and to the pump. The controller is configured to control the pressure of the fluid supplied to the inlet and to control the unloading pressure of the first portion supplied to the hydraulic planter system. | 05-14-2015 |
20150121831 | END DIVIDER FOR A HEADER OF AN AGRICULTURAL HARVESTER - Improved end dividers and headers of an agricultural harvester are disclosed. The end dividers are connected to a harvesting reel of a header such that fore and aft translational movement of the harvesting reel results in corresponding translation of a leading part of the end dividers. The result is an assembly that is effective for harvesting crops of differing heights and conditions without need for substitution of differently sized, fixed length end dividers. The end dividers may be secured to a header frame such that the end dividers float over uneven terrain. The end dividers can also include extensions or shrouds for receiving and protecting the ends of the reel, as well as sockets at their tips for releasably attaching various types of harvesting fixtures. | 05-07-2015 |
20150121830 | DUAL CONVEYOR INFEED FOR A HEADER OF AN AGRICULTURAL HARVESTER - Improved headers of a combine harvester are disclosed. The headers include structure in the form of upper and lower infeed conveyors which cooperate to maintain compressive contact with a flow of crop material that is being conveyed by the belts to the header outlet regardless of the flow characteristics of the mat of material being conveyed. The result is a consistent flow of crop material being passed through the header which results in more efficient harvester operation and more productive crop yield. | 05-07-2015 |
20150102586 | ADJUSTABLE AXLE ASSEMBLY FOR AN AGRICULTURAL VEHICLE - An axle assembly for an agricultural vehicle that includes an axle configured to be coupled to a wheel. The axle comprises a body and a first arm extending from the body. The body is configured to be disposed within a frame member of the agricultural vehicle and to contact an inner surface of the frame member. Also, the axle is configured to move within the frame member to adjust a distance between the wheel and the frame member, and the first arm is configured to contact a second arm disposed within the frame member to provide structural support to the axle assembly as the axle moves within the frame member. | 04-16-2015 |
20150101304 | RIGHT SIDE (FRONT) LATERAL TRANSPORT WHEEL LINKAGE - A transport wheel assembly for use on an agricultural mower when the mower is configured for lateral transport 90 degrees from the normal operational direction of travel of mower. The transport wheel assembly comprises a moveable frame that pivots approximately 270 degrees between a retracted position when the mower is operating and a transport position, and an actuator to position the moveable frame between the retracted and transport positions. A linkage including a bell crank interconnects the actuator and the moveable frame to enable full extent of pivoting of the moveable frame with a single direction movement of the actuator between an extended and a retracted position. The transport wheel mechanisms also position the transport wheels where they will not interfere with mower operation, especially pivoting of the tongue. | 04-16-2015 |
20150101303 | ROW DIVIDER FOR A CORN HEADER OF A COMBINE HARVESTER - An improved row divider for a corn head assembly of a combine harvester is disclosed. The row divider includes opposing non-vertical sidewalls that taper inwardly to define a narrow bottom. The non-vertical sidewalls may be planar, concave or convex. The sloping surfaces of the sidewalls result in less severe bending and shearing of corn stalks that are misaligned with respect to the row divider as the combine harvester traverses a corn field, thereby increasing crop yield. | 04-16-2015 |
20150094922 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AUTOMATICALLY CALIBRATING THE CLUTCHES WITHIN A TRANSMISSION OF A WORK VEHICLE - In one aspect, a computer-implemented method for automatically calibrating clutches within a transmission of a work vehicle may include determining, with a computing device, whether a plurality of predetermined conditions are satisfied for performing a clutch calibration on a clutch of the transmission. The predetermined conditions may require that the work vehicle be in park and that a predetermined time period has elapsed since a previous clutch calibration was performed on the clutch. In addition, the method may include automatically initiating the clutch calibration without requiring operator input when the predetermined conditions are satisfied and performing the clutch calibration in order to calibrate the clutch. | 04-02-2015 |
20150089916 | REEL TINE FOR A HARVESTING REEL OF A HARVESTER AND A METHOD OF ASSEMBLING A TINE TO A HARVESTING REEL - A harvesting reel of an agricultural harvester having a plurality of support members mounted to a frame and a plurality of tines press-fitted onto the support member is disclosed. The plurality of tines includes a cam for securely attaching the tine to the support member via a press-fit application to forego the need for any additional separate fasteners and tools necessary for production of the harvesting reel and maintenance upkeep of the plurality of tines on the harvesting reel. | 04-02-2015 |
20150089915 | FEEDING MECHANISM OF A HEADER FOR A COMBINE HARVESTER - A header for a combine harvester capable of improving the flow of grain from the header to a feeder house and reducing grain buildup about a void proximate an aft section of the header is disclosed. The header includes a chassis and a cross auger extending in a widthwise direction of the chassis. The header also includes a feed mechanism mounted on the chassis proximate a posterior end of the cross auger and within the void of the header. | 04-02-2015 |
20150080070 | COMBINE SIDE-SHAKE CLEANING CONTROL SYSTEM - A combine side-shaking control system includes a sieve for separating crop material from other materials and a movable side-shaking mechanism coupled to the sieve and configured to move the sieve in a side-to-side motion. The control system also includes also includes first and second grain loss sensors configured to sense amounts of grain loss from separate portions of the sieve. The control system further includes a controller configured to: (i) receive a first grain loss value corresponding to the sensed first amount of grain loss and a second grain loss value corresponding to the sensed second amount of grain loss; and (ii) cause the side-shaking mechanism to control movement of the sieve in the side-to-side motion based on at least one of the received first grain loss value and the received second grain loss value. | 03-19-2015 |
20150068183 | BASECUTTER BLADE FOR A CANE HARVESTER - A cane harvester including a support member and a basecutter assembly carried by the support member. The basecutter assembly has at least one rotating basecutter and a plurality of blades coupled thereto. The plurality of blades are not sharp. | 03-12-2015 |
20150068177 | INTEGRAL LATERAL TRANSPORT OF A MOWER - A wheel-supported frame for an agricultural mower having a tongue, a pivotally connected frame having a pair of main wheel, and a pair of a retractable transport wheels connected to the frame. A mechanism is provided for each transport wheel to deploy the transport wheels and support the mower, the transport wheels being oriented for travel 90 degrees to the direction of travel of the main wheels. The pivoting tongue connection with the main frame provides for at least a 90 degree rotation of the frame relative to the tongue between operating and transport positions so that the mower may be pulled for transport with the mower moving in the direction of its normal lateral width. The transport wheel mechanisms also position the transport wheels where they will not interfere with mower operation, especially pivoting of the tongue. | 03-12-2015 |
20150040528 | RESIDUE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FOR AN AGRICULTURAL VEHICLE - Residue management systems for an agricultural vehicle include a managing assembly configured to manage agricultural residue. The managing assembly includes a rotating member configured to rotate about a shaft that extends along a lateral axis of the agricultural vehicle relative to the direction of travel a frame configured to support the managing assembly. The managing assembly also includes a support arm coupled to the frame and configured to pivotally couple to a support structure of the agricultural vehicle proximate to a rear end of the agricultural vehicle relative to the direction of travel. The support arm is configured to facilitate movement of the managing assembly between a lowered operational position and a raised transport position. | 02-12-2015 |
20150033692 | HEADER LATERAL TILT CONTROL WITH AUTOMATIC OPERATION IN FREE FLOAT AND CONTROLLED TILT MODES - A method and system for controlling lateral tilt of a header of an agricultural machine, uses gauge wheels or skids on lateral ends of the header in combination with operation in a free float mode for maintaining uniform cut height across the header, and automatically changes to a controlled tilt mode when one or more conditions for that mode is present. During operation in the controlled tilt mode, if a condition or conditions for free float is present, the system will operate in that mode. The system can also optionally damp relative up and down movements of the gauge wheels or skids and the header on each end, and can limit the tilt in the free float mode. | 02-05-2015 |
20150028180 | ENGINE MOUNT ASSEMBLY AND MOUNTING SYSTEM FOR A VEHICLE - An engine mount assembly is provided for mounting an engine to a vehicle frame. The engine mount assembly includes an elastomeric material snubber element having a generally elongated configuration with axial end faces and a coaxial bolt passage defined therethrough. A tubular sleeve has an inner shape sized for sliding receipt of the snubber element therein. The tubular sleeve has a longitudinal cross-sectional profile such that a bottom longitudinal cross-sectional portion of the tubular sleeve extends axially beyond the end faces of the snubber element and defines an enlarged attachment footprint for the tubular sleeve to a vehicle frame flange. | 01-29-2015 |
20140358466 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AUTOMATICALLY UPDATING ESTIMATED YIELD VALUES - System and method which automatically updates estimated field and in-transit yield values as a function of estimated vehicle load values and correction values determined from more accurate yield values obtained later, such as at a processing or other receiving facility, thereby providing better estimates of yield values between yield monitor system calibrations. | 12-04-2014 |
20140358354 | WINDROWER AUTOGUIDANCE HYDRAULIC STEERING INTERFACE - An autoguidance interface for a hydraulic steering system for a differential steered self-propelled agricultural windrower, windrower speed and direction controlled by adjustment to a control input shaft to control the output of a pair of tandem-mounted hydraulic drive pumps and provide motive power for the windrower. The control input shaft is rotatable and axially moveable. A hydraulic steering motor is operably connected to the input shaft to effect control input shaft rotation. Rotation of the hydraulic steering motor is selectively managed by a steering control valve attached to a cab-mounted windrower steering wheel or a proportional steering valve managed by the autoguidance system. A selector valve controls the active steering input. An emergency disengagement positions the selector valve to restore manual control by the steering wheel. | 12-04-2014 |
20140345239 | Pivoting Action Low Profile Sickle Drive - The pivoting action sickle drive has a low profile allowing incorporation in or below a floor of a header of a plant cutting machine to allow passage of cut plant material thereabout. The drive includes a substantially flat rotatable input element, and a drive arm connected eccentric thereto for eccentric rotation along an epicyclical path. The arm extends to a connection with a pivot arm of a pivot element that connects to a knife arm that drives a sickle knife assembly, such that the pivot element, knife arm and knife assembly will be reciprocatingly driven by the eccentric rotation of the drive arm. A second drive can oppositely drive a second sickle knife assembly, such that opposite forces generated by the drives will cancel. The drives can be packaged in a forwardly tapered or curved enclosure, and the pivot elements can be correspondingly shaped to streamline the drives. | 11-27-2014 |
20140329572 | GRAIN ELEVATOR FOR AN AGRICULTURAL COMBINE - A combine harvester having a crop processing mechanism and an elevator assembly is provided. The elevator assembly conveys harvested crop to the crop processing mechanism. The elevator assembly includes an elevator housing, an endless conveyor mounted for rotation within the elevator housing about a shaft, and a sprocket stripper mounted adjacent the shaft. The sprocket stripper includes a beveled or tapered edge. | 11-06-2014 |
20140327223 | ACCESS STEP FOR AGRICULTURAL MACHINE - An agricultural machine includes: a base member; and a step assembly coupled with the base member. The step assembly includes: a support member coupled with the base member and configured for moving relative to the base member between a support member storage position and a support member operating position; and at least one step coupled with the support member and configured for moving relative to the support member between a step storage position and a step operating position, the step assembly being in a step assembly storage position when the support member is in the support member storage position and the at least one step is in the step storage position, the step assembly being in a step assembly operating position when the support member is in the support member operating position and the at least one step is in the step operating position. | 11-06-2014 |
20140325953 | METHOD OF REMOTELY CONFIGURING A RESIDUE SYSTEM OF AN AGRICULTURAL HARVESTER - A shifting method for an inline shaft system of a chopper system of an agricultural harvester is described and illustrated. The method includes the steps of detecting, temporarily rotating and engaging. The detecting step detects a failure to properly engage a shift collar with a splined component. The temporarily rotating step temporarily rotates the inline shaft system. The engaging step engages the shift collar with the splined component. | 11-06-2014 |
20140319875 | Gusset For a Roll-Over Protection System of a Work Vehicle - A gusset for use with a roll-over protection system of work a vehicle is disclosed. The gusset may include a first sidewall, a second sidewall spaced apart from the first sidewall and an outer face extending between the first and second sidewalls. The outer face may at least partially define an opening. The opening may be configured such that at least one of the first sidewall or the second side wall deforms relative to the outer face when the work vehicle experiences a roll-over event. | 10-30-2014 |
20140318098 | INTERMEDIATE LIFT CYLINDER LOCK FOR EXTRA TALL STUBBLE BIOMASS OPERATION - A wheel lift assembly lockout mechanism for an agricultural mower having a lift cylinder for moving the mower frame between raised and lowered positions. The lockout mechanism is positioned adjacent to a rod end of a lift cylinder and is pivotable between generally opposing lockout and free positions. First and second stops interact with the lift cylinder depending upon the position of the lockout mechanism to provide at least two stop positions allowing minimum mower heights in each stop position to be established. The lockout mechanism further includes a bias apparatus and a lockout limiter to enable a specific lockout height to be imposed with minimal impact other operational aspects of the wheel lift assembly. | 10-30-2014 |
20140318094 | Low Profile Sickle Drive - A sickle drive incorporated into a generally flat package or enclosure or floor. The drive includes an epicyclic mechanism, including a rotatable input element in an upper region of a cavity of the enclosure, and an eccentric element below the input element rotatable eccentrically thereby. A drive arm is connected to the eccentric element for rotation about, and eccentric rotation with, the eccentric element, and extends to a pivot element which can be the only component extending upwardly from the enclosure or floor, such that the shaft will be pivoted by the eccentric movement of the drive arm. A knife arm connects to the pivot element and a sickle knife assembly which will be reciprocated by the pivoting action. A second epicyclic arrangement can be employed such that opposite forces generated by operation of the drive will be largely canceled. | 10-30-2014 |
20140298769 | ROW DIVIDER FOR A CORN HEAD ASSEMBLY HAVING A HOOD WITH A STRUCTURED SURFACE - A corn head assembly for a combine harvester capable of reducing grain loss. The corn head assembly includes a frame, a plurality of row units and a hood. The frame is mounted to a forward end of the combine harvester. The plurality of row units extends forward from the frame. The hood extends between an adjacent pair of row units. The hood includes a first end proximal to the frame, a second end distal to the frame and opposite the first end, and an outer surface extending between the first and second ends. The outer surface has a plurality of structures configured to inhibit a flow of grain in a forward direction along the outer surface. | 10-09-2014 |
20140295923 | EXTRACTOR APPARATUS AND SYSTEM FOR INTACT CROP RESIDUE COLLECTION AND DEPOSITION - A fan powered extractor system for a harvester, such as a sugarcane harvester, utilizes a rotary extractor screen larger than an air flow path to the fan, that moves through the air flow path such that the air flows through the screen to collect airborne leaves and other crop residue thereon, and carries them from the air flow and deposits them on the ground beside or behind the harvester or on another receiver without passing through the fan. The extractor screen can also pass through the exhaust air flow from the fan for blowing remaining collected residue therefrom, and the location of deposition of the leaves is optionally selectable. | 10-02-2014 |
20140290200 | System and Method for Controlling A Draper Header During and After A Deslugging Or Clean Out Operation - A system and method of operation of a draper header of an agricultural work machine during a deslugging or clean out operation and after resumption of normal crop processing. During the deslugging or clean out operation, a feed draper is reversed or paused and the at least one side draper is paused. The method includes automatically resuming operation of the feed draper and at least one side draper in a graduated progression for more efficient clearing of the slug or blockage of crop material. | 10-02-2014 |
20140278083 | System & Method For Determining A Location Of An Unloaded Unit of Agricultural Product & Locating A Desired Unit Of Agricultural Product - A system and method for determining a location of an unloaded unit of agricultural product and locating a desired unit of agricultural product or identifying a candidate unit of agricultural product as a function of sensing system information indicating contact of the unit with the ground or other surface onto which the unit is unloaded, global positioning system or other location system information identifying the contact or related location, and heading information, which information can then be used to discern the unit from others at the location for desired loading. | 09-18-2014 |
20140278021 | STEERING WHEEL DIRECTION INDICATOR FOR NEUTRAL START - A visual steering wheel direction indicator for a self-propelled machine. The indicator may additionally exhibit an indicator of the amount that the steering wheel must be turned in order to reach neutral. The indicator may be integrated into a neutral start system and may include dedicated direction indicators that function independently of the main operator display. | 09-18-2014 |
20140277781 | AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENT WITH AUTOMATED RECOGNITION OF CHEMICAL TOTE CONTENTS - An agricultural implement for applying an active ingredient to a geographic area includes a chassis, and at least one active ingredient tank. Each active ingredient tank is removably positioned on and carried by the chassis. Each active ingredient tank contains an active ingredient therein which is to be applied to the geographic area. Each active ingredient tank has an identification (ID) tag representing data associated with the active ingredient. An electrical reader carried by the chassis is configured for reading the ID tag and providing an output signal. An electrical processing circuit is coupled with the reader and receives the output signal. | 09-18-2014 |
20140265239 | HITCH POSITION ENCODER WITH REFERENCE INDICATOR FOR AGRICULTURAL WORK VEHICLE - An output control system of an agricultural work vehicle includes a controller, a reference indicator communicatively coupled to the controller, and a dial communicatively coupled to the controller. The controller is configured to control power output through an output value range between a minimum output value and a maximum output value based at least in part on a manual input signal, to determine a current setting of the power output, and to adjust the power output from the current setting upon receipt of the manual input signal. The reference indicator is configured to indicate the current setting. Adjustment of an orientation of the dial from an initial position generates the manual input signal | 09-18-2014 |
20140263704 | AGRICULTURAL SPRAYER WITH DEDICATED STORAGE AREA FOR AGRICULTURAL CHEMICAL TOTES - An agricultural sprayer for metered application of a liquid includes a chassis, and a carrier tank fixedly mounted to the chassis. The carrier tank is configured for containing a carrier liquid therein. One or more active ingredient tanks are each configured for containing an active ingredient therein. A storage area associated with the chassis is configured for and dedicated to removable storage of each active ingredient tank. | 09-18-2014 |
20140262559 | SELF-PROPELLED WINDROWER TAILWHEEL NON-ZERO CASTER FOR STABILITY - A non-zero caster angle for the rear axle swivel caster wheels on a self-propelled agricultural harvesting machine wherein steering is accomplished by varying speed and/or direction of forward drive wheels. The non-zero caster angle may be fixed or an adjuster mechanism may be provided to allow adjustment within a range of caster angles. The adjuster mechanism incorporates a fixed portion connected to the tractor frame and a pair of rotating portions, one connected to each caster wheel which allows rotation of the caster axis in a plane parallel to the machine longitudinal axis. Also disclosed is an actuator mechanism for providing powered adjustment of the caster angle, even including a control system for active caster angle adjustment. | 09-18-2014 |
20140262378 | Implement Carrier With Steerable Tracks - An agricultural implement having a steering mechanism comprising a outer hitch, a main carriage connected to the outer hitch by a first pivoting connection, a steering system disposed on the main carriage and an endless track assembly connected to the main carriage by a second pivoting connection and to the steering system by a third pivoting connection. The pivoting connections enable the tracks to be actively steered and remain parallel to the surface over which the implement travels. | 09-18-2014 |
20140261022 | BALER REAR SHIELD MECHANISM - A gate assembly for use with a baler that includes a belt guide mechanism coupled to a side of the baler frame and guide one or more belts used to form the bale. The gate assembly also includes a shield pivotably coupled to the side of the baler frame and configured to limit contact with one or more components of the baler. The gate assembly further includes a linkage assembly coupled between the belt guide mechanism and the shield. The belt guide mechanism is configured to pivot between a lower belt guide mechanism position and a raised belt guide mechanism position to allow the bale to be ejected from the bale chamber. The linkage assembly is configured to pivot the shield between a lower shield position and a raised shield position responsive to the pivoting of the belt guide mechanism. | 09-18-2014 |
20140261021 | BALER BRAKE DRUM LOCKING MECHANISM - A net dispensing assembly in a baler includes a net roll support tube configured to hold the net roll and a brake drum assembly coupled to the net roll support tube and configured to rotate about the net roll support tube and apply tension to the net wrapping dispensed from the net roll. The net dispensing assembly also includes a pivoting element configured to move the net roll support tube between an operating position and a load-unload position. The net dispensing assembly further includes a locking mechanism coupled to the brake drum assembly and configured to prevent the brake drum assembly from rotating in a direction opposite the operating direction when the net roll support tube is in at least one of (i) the load-unload position and (ii) the operating position. | 09-18-2014 |
20140260090 | NET WRAPPING SYSTEM BACK WRAP ROLL - A net wrapping system includes an insertion assembly configured to move between a home position and an insert position. The insertion assembly has at least one insertion assembly spreader roll configured to engage net wrapping from a net roll. The net wrapping system also includes a fixed spreader roll proximate to the net roll and configured to engage the net wrapping along a length of the fixed spreader roll circumferential surface when the insertion assembly is in the home position. The net wrapping system further includes a back wrap roll located along a net path between the fixed spreader roll and the at least one insertion assembly spreader roll and configured to cause the net wrapping to maintain engagement with substantially the same length of the fixed spreader roll circumferential surface when the insertion assembly is in the insert position. | 09-18-2014 |
20140250854 | HARVESTER AND METHOD USING AN RFID SYSTEM FOR DETECTING AND LOCATING OBJECTS AND CONDITIONS ALONG A HARVESTING PATH - A harvester for agricultural products such as fruits such as grapes, berries, vegetables, and the like, and method of harvesting, using an RFID system capable of detecting and interrogating RFID tags associated with objects or conditions along a path of the harvester in a manner to determine both presence and location of the associated object or condition, to enable responsively adapting or altering the operation of harvesting apparatus in a predetermined manner, such as by reducing or interrupting forces exerted thereby when about or proximate the object or condition. | 09-11-2014 |
20140244117 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A HYDROSTATIC DRIVE UNIT OF A WORK VEHICLE - A method for controlling a hydrostatic drive unit of a work vehicle is disclosed. The method may generally include determining a reference swashplate position for a hydraulic pump of the hydrostatic drive unit, wherein the reference swashplate position is associated with an uncompensated current command, and monitoring an actual swashplate position of the hydraulic pump, wherein the actual swashplate position differs from the reference swashplate position due to a loading condition of the work vehicle. In addition, the method may include determining a current compensation based at least in part on the actual and reference swashplate positions and generating a compensated current command by adjusting the uncompensated current command based on the current compensation, wherein the compensated current command is associated with a compensated swashplate position for the hydraulic that differs from the reference swashplate position. | 08-28-2014 |
20140243055 | GRAIN CONVEYOR FOR A COMBINE HARVESTER - A grain conveyor for a combine harvester capable of increasing capacity and reducing component wear is disclosed. The grain conveyor includes a grain elevator, a transition chamber and an auger assembly. The grain elevator has an inlet for receiving a flow of grain. The transition chamber includes an inlet and an outlet in fluid communication with the transition chamber inlet and the grain elevator inlet. The transition chamber outlet has an asymmetric non-circular opening larger than the non-cylindrical opening of the transition chamber inlet. The auger assembly is operatively connected to the transition chamber and includes an inlet for receiving a flow of grain and an outlet in fluid communication with the transition chamber inlet. | 08-28-2014 |
20140241902 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A HYDROSTATIC DRIVE UNIT OF A WORK VEHICLE USING A COMBINATION OF CLOSED-LOOP AND OPEN-LOOP CONTROL - A method for controlling a hydrostatic drive unit of a work vehicle is disclosed. The method may generally include determining a reference swashplate position of a hydraulic pump of the hydrostatic drive unit, wherein the reference swashplate position is associated with an uncompensated current command, and determining an actual swashplate position of the hydraulic pump, wherein the actual swashplate position differs from the reference swashplate position due to a loading condition of the work vehicle. In addition, the method may include determining a closed-loop current command based at least in part on the actual and reference swashplate positions and generating a modified current command based on at least one of the uncompensated current command or the closed-loop current command. The modified current command may differ from the closed-loop current command when an operator input is within a predetermined control input range and may be equal to the closed-loop current command when the operator input is outside the predetermined control input range. | 08-28-2014 |
20140238283 | GAUGE WHEEL ARRANGEMENT FOR A SEEDER ROW UNIT - One row unit for an agricultural implement includes a ground engaging tool configured to penetrate soil and to form a furrow in the soil. The row unit also includes gauge wheels disposed adjacent to the ground engaging tool and configured to enable the ground engaging tool to penetrate the soil at a selectable penetration depth. Each of the gauge wheels extends substantially parallel to a direction of travel of the row unit. | 08-28-2014 |
20140237975 | CORN HEAD ASSEMBLY WITH CATCH PLATE - A corn head assembly for a combine harvester capable of preventing or inhibiting grain from sliding off a row unit without inhibiting crop flow is disclosed. The corn head assembly is attached to a combine harvester for harvesting crop material. The corn head assembly includes a frame, a conveyor and a plurality of row units. Each row unit includes a catch plate for facingly engaging a flow of crop material and includes a facing surface having a nonplanar geometry. The nonplanar geometry is at least one of corrugations, scales, waves, chevron-shaped corrugations, weld beads, rods, and terraces. | 08-28-2014 |
20140222304 | System And Method For Controlling A Continuously Variable Transmission During A Shuttle Shift - A method for controlling a continuously variable transmission of a work machine during a shuttle shift is disclosed. The method may generally include initiating a directional swap by disengaging an off-going directional clutch of the continuously variable transmission and slipping an on-coming directional clutch of the continuously variable transmission to decelerate the work machine in an off-going direction. In addition, the method may include estimating a total amount of energy to be dissipated in the on-coming directional clutch during the shuttle shift, comparing the total amount of energy to a predetermined energy threshold and, if the total amount of energy is equal to or exceeds the predetermined energy threshold, performing the reversion action to complete the shuttle shift, wherein the reversion action corresponds to an action taken to engage one of the off-going directional clutch or the on-coming directional clutch so as to permit the shuttle shift to be completed using ratio changing. | 08-07-2014 |
20140216280 | SQUARE BALERS - A square baler includes a control system having a closed loop mode of operation in which at least one of the volume of the feeder duct and the threshold pressure of the pressure sensor is varied automatically to maintain the capacity parameter within one of a plurality of desired capacity ranges. The desired capacity range is selected by the control system in such a manner as to maintain the width of each slice in the finished bale within predetermined limits. | 08-07-2014 |
20140216279 | Ejector System for a Square Baler - A control system is provided to select the number of dogs automatically in dependence of the position of the last completed bale in the bale case as indicated by the output of a sensor responsive to movement of the bales in the bale case. | 08-07-2014 |
20140215995 | Easily Serviceable Knife Arm Assembly For A Sickle - The knife arm assembly for connecting a sickle drive to the knife of a sickle, has a knife arm including a cavity and an opening at one end that holds a bearing for receiving a knife pin of the sickle, and a shoulder extending at least partially about and defining a second opening at an opposite end of the cavity smaller than the first opening, and a plug disposed in the second end of the cavity adjacent the end of the bearing and enclosing the second opening, the plug being configured to be forceably movable through the cavity toward the first opening and against the bearing for forcing the bearing from the knife arm, providing easy serviceability, protection from dirt, dust, and other contaminants. | 08-07-2014 |
20140213331 | BUBBLE UP AUGER FOR AGRICULTURAL COMBINES - A bubble up auger for conveying crop material on an agricultural combine is provided. The bubble up auger includes a tubular housing, a screw auger and a baffle. The tubular housing includes an inlet opening having a first width end adjacent a first end of the tubular housing and a second width end opposite the first width end. The baffle extends from the inlet opening, outwardly from the central longitudinal axis of the tubular housing and towards the first end of the tubular housing. | 07-31-2014 |
20140209000 | METERING OF PRODUCT IN AN AIR CART ON HILLY TERRAIN - An air cart for use in an agricultural air seeding system includes at least one tank for holding a material, and a metering system associated with the at least one tank. The metering system is configured for metering the material from the at least one tank at an output rate. A sensor senses a parameter associated with an angular orientation of the air cart relative to a reference plane, and provides an output signal indicative of the angular orientation. An actuator adjusts an output rate of the metering system. A controller is coupled with each of the actuator and the sensor and receives the output signal from the sensor. The controller is configured for controlling the actuator and thereby adjusting the output rate of the metering system, dependent upon the output signal. | 07-31-2014 |
20140208999 | FLUID LINE CONNECTION FOR AN AGRICULTURAL AIR SEEDER - An agricultural air seeder includes a tilling implement having a plurality of air lines. An air cart is coupled with the tilling implement, and includes a pneumatic distribution system with a plurality of air lines. A plurality of air line connections respectively interconnect between an air line associated with the tilling implement and an air line associated with the air cart. Each air line connection has a female connector and a male connector. Each female connector has an inside diameter with an annular groove, and a seal disposed within the annular groove. The male connector is positioned within the female connector and sealed with the seal. | 07-31-2014 |
20140207350 | Method Of Calibration Of A Hydraulically Operated Clutch Of A Continuously Variable Transmission Using Pressure Between A Hydrostatic Pump And Motor - A method of calibrating a hydraulically operated clutch in a continuously variable transmission of a vehicle, includes steps of filling the clutch as if for a shift, using a control signal value for achieving a test pressure, and determining a resulting change in a pressure condition in a hydrostatic power unit of the transmission. If the change indicates initial engagement, then a value representative of the signal value used is recorded. If greater than initial engagement is indicated, or the vehicle moved, then the clutch is emptied and tested using a lower test pressure. If initial engagement is not indicated, the clutch is emptied and refilled to a greater test pressure. An exemplary pressure condition is a difference in pressure in lines between a pump and motor of the power unit. During the calibration, the vehicle can be held stationary with a parking brake or the like. | 07-24-2014 |
20140206502 | Shuttle Shifting For A Continuously Variable Transmission - A shuttle shifting method for a continuously variable transmission automatically selects a manner of shuttle shifting as a function of certain monitored conditions. As one alternative, the direction of operation of the transmission is changed prior to reducing the vehicle speed to zero, and tilt of a swash plate of the hydrostatic power unit of the transmission is held substantially constant, for achieving fast, smooth shifts at faster starting and ending vehicle speeds, without coming to a complete stop. In another alternative, for slower starting and ending speeds, or other conditions such as a temperature condition is present, the vehicle is stopped by changing swash plate angle before effecting a directional change of the transmission and the swash plate. | 07-24-2014 |
20140202342 | Agricultural Baler with Bale Chute - An agricultural baler having an hydraulic actuator and accumulator being interconnected such that the upward force of the hydraulic actuator on a bale chute in a first position of the bale chute is smaller than the downward force generated by the combined weight of the bale chute and a completed bale on the bale chute but in a second position of the bale chute is larger than the downward force generated by the weight of the bale chute to cause a completed bale to slide under the action of gravity along the bale chute and to fall onto the field from a trailing end of the bale chute. | 07-24-2014 |
20140202142 | DIESEL EXHAUST FLUID TANK FOR AN OFF-ROAD VEHICLE - A diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) tank for an off-road vehicle including a first conduit channel molded into an exterior surface of the DEF tank, at a first depth, in which the first conduit channel is configured to guide a first conduit along the exterior surface of the DEF tank. The DEF tank further including a second conduit channel molded into the exterior surface of the DEF tank at a second depth, different than the first depth, in which the second conduit channel is configured to guide a second conduit, and the first depth and the second depth are selected to create a vertical gap between the first conduit and the second conduit at an intersection of the conduits. | 07-24-2014 |
20140202126 | Detection Device for Detection of a Foreign Object for an Agricultural Harvesting Machine - A vibration sensor is mounted on the central shaft, such that it senses vibrations induced into the feed roll assembly in a direction transverse to the rotational axis of the feed roll. | 07-24-2014 |
20140200114 | Method Of Calibration Of A Park Brake Of A Continuously Variable Transmission - A method of calibrating a hydraulically operated park brake of a continuously variable transmission of a vehicle. With the vehicle moving at a set, slow speed within a specified range, and the park brake off, a search technique is used, wherein the brake hydraulic pressure is reduced by application of a control signal of a selected test value to apply the brake. When the selected test value is reached, it is held constant, and a condition in a HSU of the transmission is monitored for a change indicative of engagement of the park brake. This will expectedly be in the form of a pressure change and more particularly an increase indicating initial contact between the plates of the brake, and if the HSU change is not detected, the step will time out and another control signal value will be tested. | 07-17-2014 |
20140200057 | Harvester with Cleaning System Having Early Clean Grain Evacuation - A clean grain evacuation device for a grain harvester having a threshing system configured to separate grain harvested by the harvester from crop residue and direct a flow of the grain to a cleaning system disposed within the harvester including at least two sieves disposed and configured to sequentially clean the grain. The evacuation device is disposed for receiving a portion of the flow of the clean grain from a first of the sieves, and is configured to evacuate the received clean grain away from the cleaning system. The evacuation device can include a conveyor disposed for directing the evacuated grain directly to a desired location such as a clean grain receiving system on the harvester. The evacuation device can also be located in an air flow path to the sieves for improving operation and MOG removal. | 07-17-2014 |
20140193215 | SYSTEM FOR SECURING INDUCTOR SEGMENTS TO AN INDUCTOR ASSEMBLY OF AN AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENT - A system includes an inductor assembly of an agricultural implement having an inductor box with a wall configured to separate an interior of the inductor box from an exterior of the inductor box, an inductor segment, and a mounting clip. The wall includes an inner surface in the interior and an outer surface on the exterior. The inductor segment includes a mixing portion and a delivery portion, wherein the mixing portion interfaces with the inner surface and is configured to mix agricultural product and airflow into a mixture. The delivery portion is configured to convey the mixture through the wall. The mounting clip is configured to form a seal between the interior and the exterior of the inductor box, and to interface with the outer surface and the delivery portion in an installed position to couple the inductor segment to the inductor box. | 07-10-2014 |
20140193214 | Seed Inductor for an Agricultural Implement Having an Adjustable Air Bypass - A particulate material delivery system for an agricultural implement including, an inductor box configured to receive particulate material from a tank, the inductor box including, an inductor segment comprising an air bypass channel extending through a particulate material supply chamber, wherein the particulate material supply chamber is configured to receive the particulate material for distribution to at least one row unit, and the air bypass channel is configured to guide airflow through the particulate material supply chamber without interacting with a flow of the particulate material through the particulate material supply chamber, and an airflow control device in communication with the inductor segment and configured to control the airflow through the air bypass channel. | 07-10-2014 |
20140193212 | Seed Inductor Box for an Agricultural Implement Having Multiple Air Paths - A particulate material delivery system for an agricultural implement including, an inductor box configured to receive particulate material from a tank, the inductor box including, an inductor segment comprising a particulate material supply chamber configured to guide the particulate material toward a fluidization chamber, and an air supply chamber configured to receive airflow from an airflow supply, wherein the inductor box is configured to direct the airflow from the air supply chamber to the particulate material supply chamber through a first airflow path and through a second airflow path remote from the first air path | 07-10-2014 |
20140193211 | MIRRORED INDUCTOR SEGMENT PAIRS OF AN INDUCTOR BOX OF AN AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENT - An agricultural product delivery system for an agricultural implement includes an inductor box with an agricultural product inlet configured to receive an agricultural product, an air inlet configured to receive an airflow, a plurality of mixing chambers, and a plurality of air bypass channels. Each mixing chamber is configured to mix the agricultural product and a respective first portion of the airflow. The plurality of air bypass channels is configured to guide a respective second portion of the airflow from the air inlet to a respective mixing chamber of the plurality of mixing chambers. The plurality of bypass channels includes inside air bypass channels that contact adjacent inside air bypass channels, and outside air bypass channels that are arranged adjacent to an exterior inductor box wall. | 07-10-2014 |
20140190584 | GATE RETENTION FOR AN INDUCTOR BOX OF AN AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENT - An inductor box for an agricultural implement includes an inlet configured to receive agricultural product from a tank. The inductor box also includes a housing having a cavity therein. The cavity is configured to receive the agricultural product from the inlet. The inductor box includes a gate configured to be removably inserted between the inlet and the cavity, to block the agricultural product from entering the cavity while disposed between the inlet and the cavity, and to enable the agricultural product to enter the cavity while removed from being disposed between the inlet and the cavity. The inductor box includes a first guide coupled to the housing and configured to direct the gate away from the inlet. The first guide is disposed between the gate and the inlet while the gate is disposed between the inlet and the cavity. | 07-10-2014 |
20140190382 | INDEPENDENT SUSPENSION FOR CLOSING DISCS OF AN AGRICULTURAL ROW UNIT CLOSING ASSEMBLY - One closing assembly of a row unit for an agricultural implement includes a frame configured to support ground-working tools of the row unit. Multiple arms are coupled to the frame, each arm of the multiple arms being independently rotatable about a common axis. Each arm is configured to be coupled to a closing disc configured to direct soil into a trench. | 07-10-2014 |
20140190381 | EXHAUST WEBBING FOR AN AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENT TANK - A seed tank assembly for an agricultural implement including an exhaust opening configured to exhaust seeds from the seed tank assembly, in which at least one webbing extends across the exhaust opening forming a plurality of apertures, the at least one webbing is integrally molded into the seed tank assembly, and the at least one webbing is configured to provide structural support to the seed tank assembly and to reduce seed head pressure into an inductor box positioned beneath the exhaust opening. | 07-10-2014 |
20140190379 | BAFFLE ORIENTATION DEVICE FOR AN INDUCTOR BOX OF AN AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENT - An agricultural product distribution system is presented that includes an inductor box configured to receive agricultural product and conveyed air to combine the agricultural product and the conveyed air. The agricultural product distribution system also includes a removable baffle configured to control an amount of the conveyed air that flows into each port of the plurality of ports. Furthermore, the inductor box is configured to enable the removable baffle to be slidingly inserted into the inductor box, and the removable baffle comprises a tang configured to at least partially block insertion of the removable baffle into the inductor box while the removable baffle is oriented at an undesirable orientation. | 07-10-2014 |
20140190378 | BAFFLE RETENTION CHANNEL FOR AN INDUCTOR BOX OF AN AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENT - An agricultural product distribution system is presented includes an inductor box configured to receive agricultural product and conveyed air to combine the conveyed air and the agricultural product. The conveyed air is configured to direct the agricultural product through ports to multiple distribution units. Moreover the inductor box includes a baffle retention channel configured to receive a removable baffle. Furthermore, the removable baffle includes at least one opening configured to control an amount of conveyed air directed through the ports to the multiple distribution units. | 07-10-2014 |
20140190377 | INDUCTOR BOX FOR AN AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENT HAVING COMPRESSION LIMITERS - An inductor box for an agricultural implement having compression limiters. One inductor box includes a housing having a first side configured to receive an agricultural product from a tank. The first side has a sealable surface, and the sealable surface has plates attached thereto. The inductor box includes a first gasket disposed on the sealable surface and configured to establish a seal between the sealable surface and a corresponding surface of the tank. The plates are configured to extend through respective openings in the gasket, and to block compression of the first gasket beyond a desired compression limit. | 07-10-2014 |
20140190376 | CONDUIT SYSTEM FOR A PNEUMATIC DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM OF AN AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENT - A pneumatic distribution system for an agricultural implement includes an inductor box having output ports and row units configured to receive an agricultural product and airflow from the output ports. A conduit system extends between the output ports of the inductor box and the row units. The conduit system is configured to direct the agricultural product and the airflow from each output port to a respective row unit. The conduit system includes a first conduit assembly extending between a first output port and a first row unit. The conduit system also includes a second conduit assembly extending between a second output port and a second row unit. A first average diameter of the first conduit assembly is smaller than a second average diameter of the second conduit assembly by at least approximately one percent. | 07-10-2014 |
20140190375 | LID PROP SYSTEM FOR AN AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENT TANK - A seed tank assembly for an agricultural implement including a support rod with a first end and a second end, in which the first end is configured to couple to a first side of an opening in a seed tank, the second end is configured to couple to a second side of the opening in the seed tank, and the support rod includes a trough. The support rod is configured to provide structural support to the seed tank. The seed tank assembly further including a prop rod with a first end and a second end, in which the first end is slidably coupled to the support rod, the second end is configured to attach to a tank lid, the tank lid is configured to rotate from a closed position to a fully open position, and the tank lid forms an obtuse angle with the opening while in the fully open position. The trough is configured to block movement of the first end of the prop rod while the first end of the prop rod is engaged with the trough to hold the tank lid in the fully open position. | 07-10-2014 |
20140190374 | ROW UNIT OF AN AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENT WITH MULTIPLE LOCATIONS FOR MOUNTING A GAUGE WHEEL - One row unit for an agricultural implement includes a frame assembly having a front gauge wheel mounting location and a rear gauge wheel mounting location, wherein the front gauge wheel mounting location is forward of the rear gauge wheel mounting location, relative to a direction of travel of the row unit. A first gauge wheel assembly is configured to be mounted to a selected one of the front gauge wheel mounting location and the rear gauge wheel mounting location. | 07-10-2014 |
20140188354 | Method Of Using Feedforward Compensation Based On Pressure Feedback For Controlling Swash Plate Angle In A Hydrostatic Power Unit Of A Continuously Variable Transmission - A swash plate angle for a hydrostatic power unit of a continuously variable hydromechanical transmission is determined using a feedforward compensation term, to reduce reliance on closed loop control. The feedforward term is based on knowledge of the hydrostatic power unit determined as a function of knowledge of certain parameters, including, but not limited to, hydrostatic power unit pressure, swash plate angle, desired hydrostatic power unit ratio, and pump speed. | 07-03-2014 |
20140187381 | Proportional Parking Brake Control In Cooperation With Operation Of A Conntinuously Variable Transmission - A parking brake is controlled in concert with operation of a hydrostatic power unit of a continuously variable transmission, particularly when engaging, disengaging and shuttle shifting the transmission, to provide advantages, particularly when on hills. When particular commands are received, such as shifting to a non-moving position, the parking brake is automatically engaged to hold the vehicle position. A swash plate of the hydrostatic unit can be automatically positioned to anticipate the next command. If that command is received, the brake is automatically gradually or proportionally released and the transmission engaged to effect the commanded movement of the vehicle. If a different command is received, the brake remains engaged as the transmission is configured for the commanded movement, such that no machine movement results. Then the brake is automatically gradually or proportionally released and the transmission engaged to effect that commanded movement. | 07-03-2014 |
20140187298 | SPRING LOADED COUNTER KNIFE BANK ASSEMBLY - A counter knife bank assembly of a chopper assembly for an agricultural combine is provided that can pass obstructions without damaging the knife blades of the knife blade assembly. The counter knife bank assembly includes a knife bank and a lever assembly connected to the knife bank. The knife bank is moveable between a first position and a second position relative to a stationary frame of the chopper assembly. The lever assembly includes an extension member having a first end connected to the knife bank, a biasing member connected to the extension member, and an abutment member. The abutment member is engaged with the biasing member and is biased against a stationary support member of the counter knife bank assembly for articulation therewith. | 07-03-2014 |
20140182956 | Air Filter Arrangement for a Work Vehicle - An air filter arrangement for a work vehicle is disclosed. The air filter arrangement may include a fan shroud extending between a shroud inlet and a shroud outlet and at least one heat exchanger disposed adjacent to the shroud inlet. The air filter arrangement may also include a fan disposed within the fan shroud between the shroud inlet and shroud outlet. The fan may be configured to draw air through the heat exchanger and between the shroud inlet and shroud outlet. Additionally, the air filter arrangement may include an air filter disposed within the fan shroud between the fan and the heat exchanger such that the air flowing through at least one heat exchanger and between the shroud inlet and shroud outlet is directed around the air filter. | 07-03-2014 |
20140182718 | EXHAUST STACK PIPE COVER - A cover for the upper end of an exhaust stack pipe comprises a curved cover pipe of greater diameter than the stack pipe. The curved cover pipe has a proximal end to fit over the end of the stack pipe and a distal end from which exhaust gases are discharged. The cover pipe is shaped to prevent rain from falling directly onto the end of the stack pipe. A flow diverter of lesser diameter than the cover pipe is mounted within the proximal end of the cover pipe to overlie the end of the stack pipe. The flow diverter comprises an extension tube for mounting onto the end of the stack pipe having lateral openings and a tapering deflector extending into the extension tube to divert exhaust gases to flow into the cover pipe through the lateral openings in the extension tube. | 07-03-2014 |
20140182496 | Low Torque And Vacuum Seed Meter - A seed meter is provided for use with a row crop planter or seed planter that includes a seed disk assembly that rotates within a meter housing cavity and that has a seed disk assembly cavity in which a vacuum pressure is applied for pulling seeds into seed pockets of a seed disk of the seed disc assembly. The vacuum pressure is applied to the seed disk assembly by pulling a vacuum airflow through a spindle that supports the seed disk assembly. A wiper basket is arranged in a fixed position within the seed disk assembly cavity and seals against the seed disk assembly as a support plate and seed disk of the seed disk assembly rotate over the wiper basket, so that side walls of the wiper basket create a boundary between a vacuum zone and a non-vacuum zone inside of the seed disc assembly cavity. | 07-03-2014 |
20140182495 | Seed Delivery System - A seed delivery system is provided that includes a row crop seed planter having a seed meter that can pneumatically deliver seeds to the agricultural field at a rearward velocity that matches a forward velocity of the planter. The seed meter may include a positive pressure source that pressurizes the seed meter and creates an airflow out of a seed tube of the seed meter that carries the individual seeds out of the seed tube at a rearward velocity that is automatically adjusted to match a forward velocity of the seed planter and tractor. | 07-03-2014 |
20140182493 | Low Torque And Vacuum Seed Meter - A seed meter is provided for use with a row crop planter or seed planter that includes a seed disk assembly that rotates within a meter housing cavity and that has a seed disk assembly cavity in which a vacuum pressure is applied for pulling seeds into seed pockets of a seed disk of the seed disk assembly. The vacuum pressure is applied to the seed disk assembly by pulling a vacuum airflow through a collector of a spindle-mounted hub support that is fluidly connected through a face seal arrangement with a hub face of the seed disk assembly. | 07-03-2014 |
20140180550 | LOAD CONTROL FOR A MACHINE WITH A DUAL PATH ELECTRONICALLY CONTROLLED HYDROSTATIC TRANSMISSION - A method of managing engine load by adjusting the pump and motor displacements of a dual path electronically controlled hydrostatic transmission utilizes the difference between the reference and actual engine speeds, the temperature of the working fluid for the dual path electronically controlled hydrostatic transmission, the engine governor droop value, the vehicle speed and lookup tables to determine pump and motor command adjustment factors associated with specific engine loading conditions. | 06-26-2014 |
20140180542 | STRAIGHT TRACKING CONTROL SYSTEM FOR A MACHINE WITH A DUAL PATH ELECTRONICALLY CONTROLLED HYDROSTATIC TRANSMISSION - The straight tracking control system can use a control method to achieve a desired straight motion of a machine with a dual path electronically controlled hydrostatic transmission. In the control method, the first drive system, e.g., the left or right drive system, pump solenoid current can be modified based on first and second drive system velocity feedback when the machine is commanded to move in a straight line path in the forward or reverse direction. A memory latching concept is used to latch the straight tracking factor at the initiation of and during the turn so the same straight tracking factor is used throughout the turn. The straight tracking factor is unlatched at the completion of a turn after a specific time delay and a new straight tracking factor can be calculated. The straight tracking method also utilizes transmission fluid temperature and utilizes additional fluid reserve in order to maintain straight machine movement. | 06-26-2014 |
20140179383 | CHOPPER ASSEMBLY FOR HARVESTING EQUIPMENT - A chopper assembly for harvesting equipment including a knife bank movable between a first position where knife elements of the knife bank are fully inserted into a passageway for crop residue and a second position where knife elements of the knife bank are fully retracted from the passageway. A body has a slot or profile, the body secured to the knife bank and at least one knife element, the body and the knife element configured to move relative to the knife bank. A resilient device operably connects the slot or profile and the knife bank, the resilient device preventing movement of the knife element away from the first position and toward the second position until the knife element is subjected to a predetermined force. Upon removal of the predetermined force, the resilient device urges the knife element to move toward the first position. | 06-26-2014 |
20140179381 | COMBINE SIDE-SHAKE CONTROL SYSTEM SLIDER JOINT - A combine side-shaking control system that includes a sieve for separating crop material from other material, located in a plane having an X dimension and a Y dimension and configured to move in a fore-aft direction in the X dimension, in a side-to-side direction in the Y dimension and in an up-down direction in a Z dimension. The system also includes a side-shaking assembly configured to move the sieve in the side-to-side direction in the Y dimension. The fixed arm is attached to the sieve and configured to move with the sieve in (i) the fore-aft direction in the X dimension, (ii) the side-to-side direction in the Y dimension and (iii) the up-down direction in the Z dimension. The side-shaking coupling portion comprises a moving portion configured to move in a diagonal direction having a fore-aft component in the X dimension and an up-down component in the Z dimension. | 06-26-2014 |
20140174469 | WINDSHIELD WIPER CONTROL SYSTEM - A windshield wiper control system includes a movable element configured to move in a first direction and an opposing second direction and one or more actuation devices configured to cause the movable element to move in the first direction. The windshield wiper control system also includes a rotatable cam configured to cause the movable element to move in the opposing second direction when the rotatable cam contacts a stationary surface as the rotatable cam rotates about a cam axis and a wiper mechanism configured to move in the first and second directions and pivot in an arc motion responsive to the rotation of the rotatable cam. The wiper mechanism is further configured to cause the one or more windshield wipers to move across a surface of a windshield in a more linear motion than the arc motion of the wiper mechanism. | 06-26-2014 |
20140174303 | WEIGHING ROUND BALES - Embodiments relate to weighing a bale formed by a round baler. One or more load cells, but not including load cells at each support of the baler, are used to obtain a measurement of the baler containing the bale and a measurement of the baler empty. Factors related to the slope of the surface on which the baler is located, the size of the bale, and the shape of the bale are used to adjust the measured weight of the bale. | 06-26-2014 |
20140174049 | Concave With Crop Guidance Features - A concave for a harvester combine and methods of use are provided, such as a concave for a combine harvester, the concave comprising a first longitudinal member comprising a plurality of first longitudinal member wire guide grooves substantially at the same height position relative to a bottom of the first longitudinal member; a second longitudinal member comprising a plurality of second longitudinal member wire guide grooves substantially at the same height position relative to a bottom of the second longitudinal member; a first transverse member and a second transverse member substantially parallel to one another affixed to the first longitudinal member and the second longitudinal member; and a plurality of module members affixed to the first and second transverse members. | 06-26-2014 |
20140174048 | ROW INSENSITIVE BIOMASS HARVESTING AND BILLETING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A harvesting system and method providing a row insensitive plant cutting and gathering capability, suitable for harvesting tall, stalky plants such as sweet sorghum, cane, and the like, in high volume, which also billet cuts the harvested plants. Multiple plants are cut simultaneously on a continuous basis at any locations across a header of the system, and the cut plants are gathered into a continuous overlapping flow having a vertical extent or thickness of several stalks or canes and their associated foliage. The flow is then vertically compacted into a mat of reduced thickness while being conveyed into a billet cutter, which cuts the stalks or canes into billets of a desired length and discharges the billets to a desired location, all while the harvester is moving through a field harvesting. The system can be incorporated into a conventional sugarcane harvester in place of conventional base cutters and row dividers. | 06-26-2014 |
20140172247 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR IMPROVING PERFORMANCE OF AN AGRICULTURAL VEHICLE OR IMPLEMENT - One agricultural system includes a hitch assembly configured to couple an agricultural vehicle with an agricultural implement. The agricultural system also includes a sensor coupled to the hitch assembly and configured to provide a signal indicative of a force applied to the hitch assembly by the agricultural vehicle and/or the agricultural implement. The agricultural system includes control circuitry configured to receive the signal from the sensor, to select a parameter associated with operation of the agricultural vehicle and/or the agricultural implement, based on the signal, to determine if performance of the agricultural vehicle and/or the agricultural implement will be improved by adjusting the parameter, and to control the parameter if performance of the agricultural vehicle and/or the agricultural implement will be improved. | 06-19-2014 |
20140171163 | COMBINE LINEAR SIDE-SHAKE CLEANING CONTROL SYSTEM - A combine side-shaking control system includes a sieve for separating crop material from other materials and configured to move in a fore-aft direction. At least one side-shaking assembly includes a mounting device attached to a combine chassis, a lower plate configured to rotate about a lower plate axis and an upper plate configured to (i) have an upper plate rotational motion and rotate responsive to the rotation of the lower plate and (ii) have an upper plate substantially linear motion in a substantially linear direction. A fixed arm is rotatably coupled to the upper plate and attached to the sieve. An actuation device is configured to rotate the lower plate about the lower plate axis. Responsive to the rotation of the upper plate, the sieve is controlled to move diagonal to the fore-aft direction in the substantially linear direction of the upper plate substantially linear motion. | 06-19-2014 |
20140171160 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING SPREADER OUTPUT FROM A HARVESTER - A harvester including, a spreader system configured to distribute an agricultural material onto a field, wherein the spreader system is configured to receive the agricultural material from a chopper, wherein the spreader system comprises a first panel or vane positioned on a first lateral side of the spreader system, and a second panel or vane positioned on a second lateral side of the spreader system, opposite the first lateral side, and wherein the spreader system is configured to detect a first force applied to the first panel or vane and a second force applied to the second panel or vane, and to adjust a position of the spreader system with respect to the chopper based on the first force, the second force, or a combination thereof. | 06-19-2014 |
20140169932 | METHOD OF CONTROLLING A CONVEYANCE RATE OF GRAIN OF AN UNLOADER SYSTEM - A method of controlling a conveyance rate of grain of an unloader system, including providing a grain holding device and an unloader in communication with the grain holding device, the unloader having an inlet for receiving grain from the grain holding device and an outlet for discharging grain. An apparatus within the grain holding device is operable for controllably feeding grain within the grain holding device to the unloader. The method includes monitoring a parameter associated with a power source of the apparatus, and comparing the parameter of the power source to a maximum predetermined threshold value. The method includes automatically controlling the conveyance rate of grain of the apparatus to the unloader. | 06-19-2014 |
20140167407 | Quick Disconnect Coupler with Protective Cover - A quick disconnect coupler is provided that is particularly suited for use as a case drain coupler in an agricultural work vehicle. The coupler includes a male component lockingly received within a body of a female component in a coupled state of the coupler. The female component includes an external sleeve that is linearly slidable along a slide surface of the body to engage and release the male component. A cover is engaged on the female component with a first end fixed on the body and an opposite second end fixed to the sleeve. The cover is linearly expandable with movement of the sleeve and protects the slide surface from dust or other contaminates. | 06-19-2014 |
20140165403 | Planetary Gear Alignment and Indexing Method and Associated Tool - A method is disclosed for assembly of a planetary gear drive, wherein the gear drive includes a ring gear, a sun gear, and a plurality of planet gears engaged with the ring gear and sun gear. The method includes mounting the planet gears within a carrier, with the planet gears freely rotatable relative to the carrier. A gear alignment tool is inserted through a bore in a front face of the carrier and is used to index the planet gears into an aligned rotational position for proper subsequent engagement with the ring gear and sun gear. | 06-19-2014 |
20140163806 | System and method for automatic guidance control of a vehicle - A system and method is provided for adaptive control of at least one parameter of an auto guidance control algorithm for a vehicle. The parameters may be varied according to a previously established look up table, or automatically adapted through the use of control logic, such as a “fuzzy logic” algorithm. The control parameters that can be adaptively controlled include steered wheel turn rate, proportional valve current gain, line acquisition rate and/or auto guidance control valve current limits. The control algorithm responds to the vehicle's operating parameters such as vehicle speed, tracking error, predicted heading, and hydraulic oil temperature to make adjustments to the auto guidance control parameters. | 06-12-2014 |
20140162740 | DISCHARGE GUIDE FOR AN AGRICULTURAL HARVESTER - An agricultural harvester discharge guide includes a porous apparatus adapted for mounting to a discharge end of the agricultural harvester for guiding crop residue discharged from the agricultural harvester. | 06-12-2014 |
20140162739 | SPREADER SYSTEM FOR AN AGRICULTURAL HARVESTER - A spreader system for an agricultural harvester, including a hood assembly comprising a rotatable first hood and second hood, and wherein the first and second hoods cover a portion of a respective first and second discs and are configured to rotate between a first position and a second position, in the first position the first and second hoods block upward and rearward flow of a first agricultural material, a second agricultural material, an airflow, or a combination thereof, in the second position the first and second hoods are configured to facilitate upward and rearward flow of the first agricultural material, the second agricultural material, the airflow, or the combination thereof. | 06-12-2014 |
20140162737 | GRAIN CLEANING SYSTEM FOR AN AGRICULTURAL COMBINE - A grain cleaning system of an agricultural combine directs a flow of high velocity air in a first direction about an inlet end of a cleaning shoe. The system further monitors the cleaning shoe in order to detect a change in an operational parameter of the cleaning shoe, wherein the operational parameter is one of a transient effect of a sieve of the cleaning shoe, a flow rate about and exit end of the cleaning shoe and a flow velocity about an exit end of the cleaning shoe. Further, the flow of high velocity air about the inlet end of the cleaning shoe can be redirected in a second direction in response to a detected change in the operational parameter. | 06-12-2014 |
20140158465 | Ladder Assembly for a Work Vehicle - A ladder assembly for a work vehicle is disclosed. The ladder assembly may generally include a ladder having a first side rail, a second side rail and first and second rungs extending between the first and second side rails. The ladder may be supported on the work vehicle at a first pivot point and a second pivot point. The ladder may also include a first linkage and a second linkage. The first linkage may be coupled between the first rung and the first pivot point and the second linkage may be coupled between the second rung and the second pivot point. In addition, the ladder may be configured to pivot about the first and second pivot points between a first position and a second position. | 06-12-2014 |
20140158440 | WORK VEHICLE - A work vehicle includes a frame having opposed compartments to receive a lubricating liquid for providing lubrication to a corresponding motor-powered chain drive. The chain drive is usable to drivingly move a continuous track or a set of wheels for moving the work vehicle. The continuous track and the set of wheels are interchangeably receivable by the frame, the frame remaining virtually identical whether receiving the continuous track or the set of wheels. | 06-12-2014 |
20140157999 | Tagger for Agricultural Baler - A tagger assembly has a tagger for affixing labels onto a lineal object binding a bale of agricultural crop material. The tagger having an input port for receiving the lineal object and an output port for evacuating the lineal object, and at least one retaining element for tensioning the lineal object, more particularly for tensioning the lineal object when it is raised from an initial position close to the bale to a raised position further away from the bale, for affixing a label. | 06-12-2014 |
20140157746 | AUTOMATICALLY ENGAGING AND DISENGAGING HEADER LOCK ASSEMBLY - A header lift assembly for an agricultural harvester includes a lift cylinder and a lock assembly. The lift cylinder includes a sleeve and a piston, and the piston is configured to move in an axial direction relative to the sleeve. The lock assembly is coupled to the lift cylinder and is configured to automatically transition to a first locking position upon extension of the piston in the axial direction to a locking distance from the sleeve. The first locking position is configured to block retraction of the piston in the axial direction beyond a first distance from the sleeve. The lock assembly is also configured to automatically disengage from the first locking position to a unlocked position that facilitates retraction of the piston beyond the first distance upon extension of the piston to an unlocking distance. | 06-12-2014 |
20140151139 | One-Way Vented Screen Assembly for a Work Vehicle - A screen assembly for a work vehicle is disclosed. The screen assembly may generally include a screen defining a plurality of screen openings for receiving an airflow therethrough. In addition, the screen may define a flap opening. The screen assembly may also include a flap pivotally coupled to the screen at the flap opening. The flap may be configured to be moved to a closed position when the airflow through the screen is in a first direction and to an opened position when the airflow through the screen is in a second direction. | 06-05-2014 |
20140150384 | Rain Deflector for an Intake Duct of a Work Vehicle - An intake duct for an air intake system of a work vehicle is disclosed. The intake duct may generally include a body defining an air passage extending between an intake end and an outlet end. The body may further define a recessed intake at the intake end including a first side section and a second side section. Each of the first side section and the second side may define at least one side opening for directing air into the air passage. In addition, the recessed intake may include a deflector projecting outwardly from the first and second side sections. The deflector may be configured to shield the air passage from water directed towards the recessed inlet. | 06-05-2014 |
20140148286 | BELT DRIVE HAVING A SPEED SELECTION SHIFT MECHANISM - A speed select shift mechanism for a belt drive assembly to be installed on a shaft capable of shifting between high, low and neutral speeds is disclosed. The shift mechanism includes a shift collar that is enclosed within an enclosure to prevent debris from contacting the inner operations of the shift mechanism and thereby reduce wear and tear of the shift mechanism along with down time for maintenance of the device. The shift mechanism includes a shaft, a first pulley, a shift collar, a second pulley and a shifter. The shift collar further includes dowels that cooperatively engage corresponding apertures on the pulleys. | 05-29-2014 |
20140148229 | AIR DIVERTER FOR A CLEANING SYSTEM OF A COMBINE HARVESTER - A cleaning system for a combine harvester that includes a cleaning shoe having a sieve, a cleaning fan, an air plenum and a pair of air diverters is provided. The cleaning fan is rotatably driven for generating a flow of air and positioned within the air plenum. The air plenum extends across the entire length of the cleaning fan and includes an inlet for the intake of air, an outlet downstream the inlet for directing the flow of air in a first direction, lateral walls forming a portion of the outlet, and a bottom wall extending between the lateral walls. The pair of air diverters extends inwardly from the lateral walls. Each air diverter is configured substantially as a pyramid having a rounded corner that extends inwardly from the lateral wall and upwardly from the bottom wall. | 05-29-2014 |
20140141848 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONVEYING AGRICULTURAL MATERIAL IN A HARVESTER - A system and method for conveying agricultural material in a harvester. One harvester includes a rotor which rotates to separate a plant into a first agricultural material and a second agricultural material. A grate is disposed vertically below the rotor and further separates the first and second agricultural materials from one another. A first conveyor receives the first and second agricultural material directly from a trailing end of the rotor and a trailing end of the grate. | 05-22-2014 |
20140135083 | UNLOADER SYSTEM FOR AN AGRICULTURAL COMBINE - An agricultural combine with a plurality of grain tanks and an unloader system for unloading grain harvested by the combine. The unloader system has an unloader tube, a sensor and a controller. The unloader tube includes an interior passageway with a conveyor inside the interior passageway for moving the grain through the unloader tube and at least two discharge assemblies on the unloader tube for discharging grain traveling through the unloader tube to one of the plurality of grain tanks. The sensor is used for sensing an attribute of the grain that is to be unloaded through the unloader tube. The controller is operatively connected to and in communication with the unloader system and sensor so as to discharge the grain from the unloader tube through one of the at least two discharge assemblies based upon the attribute detected by the sensor. | 05-15-2014 |
20140130472 | Cam Driven Low Profile Sickle Drive - The drive has an input rotatable about an upstanding rotational axis and carries a cam followed by a pivot arm pivotable about an upstanding pivotal axis. A power source is connected in rotatably driving relation to the input. The pivot arm connects to a knife assembly of a sickle. The input, cam and pivot arm are generally flat, and the power source is vertically coextensive therewith for incorporation in or below the floor of a header of a plant cutting machine. Rotation of the input causes offset movement of the cam about the rotational axis, resulting in sideward pivoting of the pivot arm and sickle knife. A second cam drive can oppositely drive a second sickle knife, such that opposite forces generated by operation of the drives will be largely canceled. | 05-15-2014 |
20140128134 | GRAIN SAVER CATCH FOR AN AGRICULTURAL COMBINE - An agricultural combine unloader assembly is disclosed. The assembly includes an unloader tube having an internal passage in fluid communication with a discharge outlet at an end of the unloader tube. A door is mounted adjacent the discharge outlet for covering the discharge outlet. The door is moveable between an open position uncovering the discharge outlet and a closed position at least partially covering the discharge outlet. In the open position, the door is positioned below a flow path of grain to be discharged through the discharge outlet. A catch is mounted adjacent the door. The catch includes a housing having an open end adjacent a first end of the door and a closed end adjacent a second end of the door opposite the first end. The catch is operatively connected to the door and movable between a first position and a second position. | 05-08-2014 |
20140124283 | HORIZONTAL MUFFLER FOR AN AGRICULTURAL VEHICLE - A horizontal muffler for an agricultural vehicle is provided. One agricultural vehicle includes an exhaust system having a muffler configured to direct exhaust out of an engine and to reduce a noise of the exhaust. The agricultural vehicle also includes a steering wheel configured to control steering of the agricultural vehicle. The muffler is disposed forward of the steering wheel relative to a direction of travel of the agricultural vehicle. Moreover, the muffler extends in a substantially horizontal direction such that a flow of the exhaust through the muffler is substantially parallel to a ground surface. | 05-08-2014 |
20140116736 | AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENT WITH PIVOTING TOOL FRAME - An agricultural implement may include a main frame with a tool frame pivotally coupled thereto. The agricultural implement includes a front row of ground engaging tools having a first plurality of ground engaging tools coupled to the tool frame and a rear row of ground engaging tools having a second plurality of ground engaging tools coupled to the tool frame. The agricultural implement includes a front linkage assembly extending between the main frame and the tool frame. The front linkage assembly is coupled to the tool frame vertically above the front row. The agricultural implement also includes a central linkage assembly extending between the main frame and the tool frame. The central linkage assembly is coupled to a central portion of the tool frame between the front row and the rear row. The front row is configured to pivot upwardly and downwardly relative to the rear row. | 05-01-2014 |
20140116272 | Round Baler - A round baler is described having a housing with two sidewalls and a plurality of belts arranged side by side within the housing between the sidewalls and guided over rolls of which at least some are mounted movably to permit a baling to increase in diameter as the bale being formed grows in size. The movable rolls are supported by a belt tension arm assembly having radius arms extending from an axle that is rotatable relative to the housing about an axis parallel to that of the rolls. The rolls nearest the sidewalls of the housing are cantilevered mounted on the belt tension arm assembly to extend laterally beyond the radius arms. | 05-01-2014 |
20140113694 | SEAL FOR UNLOADING CONVEYOR ARRANGEMENT - An unloading conveyor arrangement for an agricultural machine includes a conveyor having a discharge end, and a spout arrangement at the discharge end of the conveyor. The spout arrangement includes a spout which is connected to the discharge end and movable relative to the conveyor. The spout and the discharge end have an interspatial gap therebetween. The spout arrangement further includes a seal which is attached to the conveyor and/or the spout and extends across the interspatial gap. | 04-24-2014 |
20140109542 | HOOK ROTOR STRIPPER - Rotor strippers are sized and shaped to securely fit between adjacent rotor fingers on a rotor shaft of a rotor for stripping crop material and for conveying the crop material to a bale chamber for forming a bale. Each rotor stripper is formed of a segment comprised of two opposing side walls with an interior section extending between the two opposing side walls. A first end portion has a curved hook section shaped to securely fit around a majority portion of the rotary shaft for secure engagement therewith; a second end portion is secured to a backbone portion of the rotor allowing the segment to remain fixed with respect to rotation of the rotary shaft; and a middle portion extends between the first and second end portions in a curved manner. | 04-24-2014 |
20140109536 | AGRICULTURAL HARVESTER DRIVE LINE - A power conveying system for use with a header of an agricultural harvester, the header having a first structural member and a second structural member being pivotally coupled to the first structural member about an axis. The power conveying system including a driving pulley, a driven pulley, an idler pulley, a flexible link and a cantilevered member. The driving pulley is coupled to the first structural member, and the driven pulley is coupled to the second structural member. The flexible link conveys power from the driving pulley to the driven pulley, and is in contact with the idler pulley. The cantilevered member is connected to the second structural member, and extends beyond the axis, where the cantilevered member is movably coupled to the idler pulley. | 04-24-2014 |
20140105713 | BOOM LOCK SYSTEM FOR WORK MACHINE AND ASSOCIATED METHOD - A work vehicle includes a frame including generally upwardly extending laterally spaced side members. A boom structure includes a pair of arms pivotably connecting the boom structure to the frame. A pressurized fluid system is operably associated with the boom structure for raising and lowering jointly each of the arms along a path of travel adjacent a corresponding side member. A stop member selectably extends outwardly from at least one of the side members between a locking position and a retracted position, the locking position extending at least a portion of the stop member into the path of travel of a corresponding arm of the boom structure to prevent a lowering movement of the boom structure beyond a predetermined height. A boom lock system prevents the fluid system from applying a fluid force to lower the boom structure when the stop member is in the locking position. | 04-17-2014 |
20140103647 | Loop Knotter System For A Baler - A tying mechanism comprising a bill hook, twine holding device for holding strands of twines, a cutting arm adapted for cutting twines between the bill hook and the twine holding device whilst moving between a rest position and an extended position, a drive adapted to make the bill hook perform at least a first full rotation and a second full rotation and to move the cutting arm from the rest position to the extended position and back during a full operation cycle to form respectively a first and a second consecutive knot wherein the tying mechanism further comprises a tension regulating mechanism able to provide and regulate the tension exerted to the twine holding device during the operation of the tying mechanism. | 04-17-2014 |
20140102863 | SLAT FOR A MATERIAL MOVING SYSTEM FOR AN AGRICULTURAL HARVESTING MACHINE - A slat for use in an agricultural harvester including a web securable to a material moving system. A first and second leg extending outwardly from one side of the web, the first leg providing primary impetus for movement of crop material in a first direction by the material moving system. A third leg extending outwardly from an opposed side of the web and providing secondary impetus for movement of crop material by driven movement of the material moving system. In response to the slat encountering a foreign object that becomes wedged between the first leg, the third leg and structure of the material moving system and preventing driven movement of the material movement system in the first direction, upon application of force urging movement of the material movement system in an opposed second direction, the third leg facilitating a rotational movement of the slat for dislodging the foreign object. | 04-17-2014 |
20140100743 | TRAVEL SPEED CONTROL SYSTEM FOR WORK VEHICLE - A travel speed control system for a work vehicle including a control device configured to control travel speed of a work vehicle operable in a first travel mode and in a second travel mode. The work vehicle is movable between a first travel direction and an opposed second travel direction in each of the first travel mode and the second travel mode. The first travel mode is configured to control acceleration of the work vehicle relative to an amount of force or movement of the control device. The second travel mode is configured to control speed of the work vehicle relative to an amount of force or movement of the control device. | 04-10-2014 |
20140097160 | Helical Bar Concave - A method of manufacturing a helical bar concave from a flat, rolled laser cut arrangement that provides a net helical concave functionality. Laser cutting a flat metal sheet to form helical cutouts defining a percent open area having a helical geometry in combination with configurable rub bars mounted in a helical fashion results in a configurable helical bar concave in which the number or aggressiveness of the threshing surface on the inside radius of the grate may be changed and/or the rub bars may be moved to the outside of the grate to change the percent open area and hence the separation characteristics of the concave. | 04-10-2014 |
20140096498 | ADJUSTABLE WINDROW ASSEMBLY FOR AN AGRICULTURAL VEHICLE - An agricultural vehicle includes a chassis and a windrow assembly carried by the chassis. The windrow assembly includes a windrow chute and a width adjustment device operatively mounted to the windrow chute. The windrow chute includes a discharge panel and a pair of side walls attached and movable relative to the discharge panel. The width adjustment device includes a manual adjustment member mounted to the discharge panel, and a pair of linkages with each linkage interconnecting between the manual adjustment member and a respective side wall. | 04-10-2014 |
20140090568 | Sensor Arrangement - An agricultural baler having a baling chamber, an intake duct leading into the baling chamber and a stuffer mechanism for transferring slice of crop in the intake duct into the baling chamber, wherein the baler comprises a wall segment positioned substantially in line with an inner wall surface of the baler, the wall segment being suspended from the inner wall surface via at least one load measurement sensor in such a manner that both a load perpendicular to, and a load parallel to the inner wall are derivable | 04-03-2014 |
20140090346 | Cleaning Flaps For A Center Knife Drive For A Sickle Of A Plant Cutting Machine - A center knife drive for a sickle of a plant cutting machine having an upwardly facing cover and at least one output element reciprocatingly movable by the drive above the cover for moving a knife of the sickle in a sideward reciprocating cutting action, including at least one cleaning flap in connection with the output element positioned and configured for reciprocating forward and rearward movement thereby, disposed above the cover and configured for cleaning loose material therefrom during the movement and for pushing the loose material from the cover to accommodate upward movement of the drive within a space below or in a floor of the machine, clearing the material from the path of the output element, and improved heat dissipation. | 04-03-2014 |
20140083725 | BULLDOZER FOLDING BLADE - A bulldozer includes a folding blade that includes a base blade having opposed ends. A first blade portion is rotatably movable about an axis near one end of the base blade. A second blade portion is rotatably movable about an axis near an end of the base blade opposite the first blade portion. The first blade portion and the second blade portion are rotatably movable relative to the base blade between extended and retracted positions. Each blade portion includes a selectably removable first pin and a selectably removable second pin. When installed, the first pin secures each of the first blade portion and the second blade portion in the extended position and the retracted position relative to the base blade, and when installed, the second pin secures each of the first blade portion and the second blade portion in the extended position relative to the base blade. | 03-27-2014 |
20140080555 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING SPREADER OUTPUT FROM A HARVESTER - A system and method for controlling spreader output from a harvester includes a distribution chamber for receiving an agricultural material removed from a field. The harvester includes a spreader system configured to distribute the agricultural material onto the field, and an opening configured to receive the agricultural material from the distribution chamber. Moreover, the distribution chamber includes a first panel rotatably coupled to a first side of the distribution chamber, and a second panel rotatably coupled to a second side of the distribution chamber. The first and second panels are configured to direct the agricultural material toward the opening of the spreader system. An angle of the first panel is independently adjustable to control a first amount of agricultural material directed toward a first inlet portion. An angle of the second panel is independently adjustable to control a second amount of agricultural material directed toward a second inlet portion. | 03-20-2014 |
20140076981 | MOTOR CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AGRICULTURAL SPREADER - An agricultural spreader system includes a first motor, a second motor, and a valve system coupled to the first motor and to the second motor. The first motor is configured to be driven by a working fluid and to drive a first spreader disc in rotation. The second motor is configured to be driven by the working fluid and to drive a second spreader disc in rotation. The valve system is configured to transition between a series flow arrangement and a parallel flow arrangement. The series flow arrangement is configured to direct the working fluid to the second motor through the first motor. The parallel flow arrangement is configured to direct a first portion of the working fluid to the first motor, and to direct a second portion of the working fluid to the second motor. | 03-20-2014 |
20140076178 | Square Baler Comprising a Stuffer - A stuffer includes an arm connected at a first pivot point to a crank arm that is driven to rotate at a multiple of the cycling rate of the plunger, and the arm is acted upon at a second pivot point by a cam track and follower arrangement selectively driven with the crank arm by a disengageable clutch. | 03-20-2014 |
20140075903 | SELF-ADJUSTING OBJECT DEFLECTOR FOR AN AGRICULTURAL HARVESTER FEEDER - A feeder assembly for an agricultural harvester, including a first shaft, a second shaft opposite the first shaft, a chain extending around the first shaft and the second shaft, wherein the chain is configured to convey agricultural through the agricultural harvester, and a self-adjusting object deflector assembly positioned between the first shaft and the second shaft, wherein the self-adjusting object deflector assembly comprises a deflector biased against the chain and configured to block the agricultural material from interfering with a connection between the chain and the first shaft. | 03-20-2014 |
20140073380 | Combine Harvester Sieve Assembly with an Integrated Air Cleaning System - A combine harvester that employs a sieve assembly having a frame structure with movement that facilitates pressurizing an air supply connected thereto. Various aspects of the subject disclosure provide for sieve elements having internal air passages that are supported in the frame structure. A plurality of pressurized air ports are disposed along the frame structure or sieve elements and are oriented at an angle so as to direct pressurized air upwardly through the sieve elements. The pressurized air supply is in communication with the air ports. | 03-13-2014 |
20140066149 | Auger Drive Coupler Assembly for a Combine Harvester - An unload auger assembly for a combine harvester includes a drive coupler configured between adjacent first and second auger segments. The coupler includes a driver component and associated driver cog coupled to the first auger segment. A driven component and associated driven cog is coupled to the second auger segment. The driven cog is rotationally engaged by the driver cog to transmit rotational drive from the first auger segment to the second auger segment. A friction clutch is configured in-line between the driver component and driven component and rotationally couples the driver component to the driven up to a release torque value wherein the friction clutch disengages the driver component from the driven component. | 03-06-2014 |
20140066148 | System and Method for Controlling the Spreading of Crop Residue Expelled from an Agricultural Combine - A system for controlling the spreading of crop residue expelled from an agricultural combine is disclosed. The system may include a spreader configured to expel crop residue from the combine. The spreader may include at least one spreader disc configured to be rotated about an axis. In addition, the system may include a windrow door having an inner surface defining a flow path for directing the crop residue into the spreader. At least a portion of the windrow door may be configured to be moved relative to the spreader so as to adjust a location at which the crop residue is introduced onto the at least one spreader disc. | 03-06-2014 |
20140066147 | Windrow Door for an Agricultural Combine - A windrow door for controlling a direction of flow of crop residue expelled from a combine is disclosed. The windrow door may generally include a door panel extending lengthwise between a first end and a second end. The door panel may be configured to be move relative to a spreader of the combine between a closed position, wherein the crop residue being expelled from the combine is directed along the door panel and into the spreader, and a chute position, wherein the crop residue is directed through a rear opening of the combine and onto the door panel. | 03-06-2014 |
20140066146 | Windrow Door Assembly for an Agricultural Combine - A windrow door assembly for controlling a direction of flow of crop residue expelled from a combine is disclosed. The window door assembly may generally include a door panel extending between a first end and a second end. The door panel may be moveable between a closed position, wherein the crop residue being expelled from the combine is directed along the door panel into a spreader of the combine, and an opened position, wherein the crop residue is directed along the door panel towards a rear opening of the combine. In addition, the windrow door assembly may include a deflector panel rotatably coupled to the door panel. The deflector panel may be configured to alter the direction of flow of the crop residue when the door panel is in the opened position. | 03-06-2014 |
20140060871 | TOWED IMPLEMENT STRESS RELIEVED JOINTS - An agricultural implement is provided that includes a first tool bar supporting first ground engaging tools. The agricultural implement further includes a second tool bar supporting second ground engaging tools and coupled to the first tool bar by a pivot joint. Additionally, the agricultural implement includes a working plate secured to the first tool bar and having a joint structure partially defining the pivot joint. Furthermore, the agricultural implement includes a stress feathering plate secured between the working plate and the first tool bar and secured to both the working plate and the first tool bar, the stress feathering plate extending beyond the working plate and having a contour that provides a reduced stress gradient when the first tool bar, the working plate and the stress feathering plate are loaded by engagement of the first and second ground engaging tools with the ground. | 03-06-2014 |
20140060869 | DOWN PRESSURE CONTROL SYSTEM FOR AN AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENT - An agricultural implement system, including a center toolbar including at least one ground engaging tool, a first inner-wing toolbar rotatably coupled to the center toolbar, the first inner-wing toolbar including at least one ground engaging tool, a first outer-wing toolbar rotatably coupled to the first inner-wing toolbar, the first outer-wing toolbar including at least one ground engaging tool, a first actuating cylinder coupled to the center toolbar, a second actuating cylinder extending between the center toolbar and the first inner-wing toolbar, a third actuating cylinder extending between the first inner-wing toolbar and the first outer-wing toolbar, and a control system configured to drive the first actuating cylinder, the second actuating cylinder, and the third actuating cylinder. | 03-06-2014 |
20140060867 | TOOL BAR EXTENSION FOR AN AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENT - An agricultural implement having a tool bar extension. One agricultural implement includes a tool bar assembly having a central tool bar, a first wing tool bar rotatably coupled to a first end of the central tool bar, a second wing tool bar rotatably coupled to the first wing tool bar, a third wing tool bar rotatably coupled to a second end of the central tool bar, and a fourth wing tool bar rotatably coupled to the third wing tool bar. The agricultural implement also includes ground engaging tools. At least a portion of the ground engaging tools is coupled to the tool bar assembly. The agricultural implement includes a tool bar extension rigidly coupled via fasteners to a first distal end of the second wing tool bar, or to a second distal end of the fourth wing tool bar. | 03-06-2014 |
20140060866 | WING FOLDING ARRANGEMENT FOR AN AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENT - A wing folding arrangement for an agricultural implement includes a tool bar assembly having a central tool bar, a first wing tool bar rotatably coupled to a first end of the central tool bar, a second wing tool bar rotatably coupled to the first wing tool bar, a third wing tool bar rotatably coupled to a second end of the central tool bar, and a fourth wing tool bar rotatably coupled to the third wing tool bar. The agricultural implement also includes row units coupled to the tool bar assembly and configured to deliver flowable agricultural product to a field. The second wing tool bar is configured to fold over the first wing tool bar, the fourth wing tool bar is configured to fold over the third wing tool bar, and the first and third wing tool bars are configured to fold crosswise over the central tool bar. | 03-06-2014 |
20140060863 | STORAGE TANK FRAME ASSEMBLY FOR AN AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENT - A storage tank frame assembly for an agricultural implement. One agricultural implement includes a tool bar assembly having a tool bar and row units coupled to the tool bar and configured to deliver flowable agricultural product to a field. The agricultural implement also includes a storage tank configured to hold the flowable agricultural product and to provide the flowable agricultural product to the row units. The agricultural implement includes a frame assembly having a first and a second mounting assembly. The frame assembly is coupled to the tool bar assembly. The agricultural implement also includes an axle removably coupled to the frame assembly and configured to be coupled to wheels for transportation of the agricultural implement. The frame assembly is configured to be coupled to multiple sizes of storage tanks via the first mounting assembly and to multiple sizes of axles via the second mounting assembly. | 03-06-2014 |
20140060861 | WING LIFTING SYSTEM FOR AN AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENT - An agricultural implement is presented that includes a main tool bar supporting main agricultural tools. The agricultural implement also includes an inner wing tool bar pivotally coupled to the main tool bar and supporting inner wing agricultural tools. Moreover, the agricultural implement includes an outer wing tool bar pivotally coupled to the outer wing tool bar and supporting outer wing agricultural tools. Furthermore, the agricultural implement includes a folding system configured to rotate that outer wing tool bar relative to the inner wing tool bar to enable the agricultural implement to be operated in a narrower configuration. | 03-06-2014 |
20140060406 | FLUID DELIVERY SYSTEM FOR AN AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENT - An agricultural implement is provided that includes a first tool bar and a second tool bar each supporting respective ground engaging tools and fluid dispersal components. The second tool bar is pivotally coupled to the first tool bar. The agricultural implement further includes fluid conduits coupled to respective tool bars for conveying fluid to the respective fluid dispersal components. Additionally, each of the conduits has a flexible end adjacent to the other tool bar. Furthermore, the agricultural implement includes a fluid joint coupled between the first and second flexible ends and configured to provide a sealed connection between the first and second flexible ends during relative pivotal movement of the first and second tool bars in operation but to allow for uncoupling of the first and second flexible ends for servicing of the implement. | 03-06-2014 |
20140060405 | CONTROL SYSTEM MOUNTING ARRANGEMENT FOR AN AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENT - An agricultural implement includes a storage tank, a pump positioned below a bottom portion of the storage tank, and a control system disposed above the bottom portion of the storage tank. The storage tank is configured to hold a flowable agricultural product. The pump is configured to direct the flowable agricultural product out of the storage tank. The one or more controls are configured to control application of the flowable agricultural product. | 03-06-2014 |
20140060404 | STORAGE TANK SUMP ARRANGEMENT FOR AN AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENT - A storage tank sump arrangement for an agricultural implement. One agricultural implement includes row units configured to deliver flowable agricultural product to a field. The agricultural implement also includes a storage tank configured to hold the flowable agricultural product. The storage tank includes a first sump and a second sump. Further, the first sump is positioned adjacent to a front portion of the storage tank relative to a direction of travel and the second sump is positioned adjacent to a rear portion of the storage tank relative to the direction of travel. The agricultural implement includes a pump in fluid communication with the first sump and the second sump. The pump is configured to pump the flowable agricultural product from the storage tank to the row units. | 03-06-2014 |
20140060403 | PULL FRAME FOR AN AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENT - An agricultural implement includes a tool bar assembly configured to couple to a main frame of the agricultural implement and a pull frame. The tool bar assembly includes a first tool with a height that is adjustable relative to a soil surface. The pull frame includes a hitch assembly configured to be coupled to a work vehicle, a mounting portion configured to be removably coupled to the main frame of the agricultural implement, and a hollow portion that extends over the first tool bar between the hitch assembly and the mounting portion while the tool bar assembly and the pull frame are coupled to the main frame. The hollow portion is configured to accommodate one or more conduits. | 03-06-2014 |
20140060402 | STORAGE TANK MOUNTING ARRANGEMENT FOR AN AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENT - An agricultural implement includes a frame assembly configured to support a storage tank. The frame assembly includes a pair of longitudinal beams positioned on opposite lateral sides of the storage tank, and multiple cross members extending between the pair of longitudinal beams. A substantially flat upper surface of each cross member is secured to a lower surface of each longitudinal beam, and each cross member is configured to support the storage tank via contact between the substantially flat upper surface of the cross member and a substantially flat lower surface of the storage tank such that the substantially flat lower surface of the storage tank is positioned vertically below an upper surface of each longitudinal beam. | 03-06-2014 |
20140060401 | TOOL BAR MOUNTING ASSEMBLY FOR AN AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENT - A tool bar mounting assembly for an agricultural implement. One agricultural implement includes a first tool bar assembly having a tool bar and a plurality of row units coupled to the tool bar and configured to deliver flowable agricultural product to a field. The agricultural implement also includes a frame assembly coupled to the first tool bar assembly. The frame assembly includes a mounting assembly having a mechanical linkage. The mechanical linkage is configured to removably couple the first tool bar assembly to the frame assembly via a plurality of fasteners. The frame assembly is configured to provide structural support to the first tool bar assembly. The mechanical linkage of mounting assembly is configured to removably couple a second tool bar assembly having a different configuration than the first tool bar assembly to the frame assembly via the plurality of fasteners. | 03-06-2014 |
20140053510 | CURRENT SENSING OF ACTUATORS ON A ROUND BALER - Monitoring current draw of an actuator associated with a rotating arm on a round baler during a net wrapping cycle is used to determine the position of the rotating arm and actuator, as well as to determine the net tension. The current draw of the actuator may be correlated with the home and insert positions of the rotating arm during the net wrapping cycle; thus by monitoring the current draw, the rotating arm and actuator position is determined and may be provided to aid an operator. The net tension during the net wrapping cycle is a function of the rotating arm and actuator current. A calculation of net tension is determined and provided to an operator, allowing the operator to verify performance issues related to the net tension. | 02-27-2014 |
20140049029 | STEERING COLUMN FOR A WORK VEHICLE WITH INTEGRAL ADJUSTABLE FOOT RESTS - A work vehicle includes a chassis, an operator station, and a steering column. The operator station is carried by the chassis and includes a floor. The steering column is mounted to and extends upward from the floor. The steering column includes a pair of opposite sides and a pair of foot rests, with each foot rest extending laterally outward from a respective side. The position of the foot rests is preferably adjustable. | 02-20-2014 |
20140048346 | Air Intake Configuration for an Agricultural Harvesting Machine - An agricultural work vehicle includes a vehicle body having longitudinally extending sides. An enclosed engine compartment is configured within the vehicle body. An air inlet is defined in side of the vehicle body for intake of air into the engine compartment. A grain bin forward of the engine compartment includes a grain bin extension skirt mounted above the grain bin. An intake housing is mounted over the air inlet in the vehicle body side and includes a forwardly extending portion mounted alongside the grain bin extension with an inlet opening oriented so as draw air primarily from an area forward of the engine compartment and above the vehicle body. | 02-20-2014 |
20140045563 | Combine Sieve Assembly with an Auger Trough Clean-Out Assembly - An auger assembly for a combine harvester includes an auger trough having side walls with a length so as to extend laterally between opposed side sheets. Guide tracks are configured along bottom edges of the side walls. A flexible bottom cover member is slidably engaged within the guide tracks. The cover member is removably attached to the side walls by being slid into and out of the guide tracks from a longitudinal end of the side walls outboard of the side sheets for an auger clean-out procedure. | 02-13-2014 |
20140045562 | Chopper Knife With Hardening Coating - A chopper knife for an agricultural machine has a plate-shaped blade having a front region and a rear region. The blade is confined in transversal direction by longitudinal edges. The front region comprises at least one elongate cutting edge provided with a coating extending along a surface of the blade over a width perpendicular to a longitudinal edge. The width of the coating decreases in a direction from the front region towards the rear region of the blade. | 02-13-2014 |
20140041536 | Agricultural Square Baler - An agricultural baler comprising a controller, sensor and an actuator connected such that in a first position of a bale chute upon sensing of the movement of a completed bale ready to be lowered by the sensor a signal indicative of said movement is fed to the controller by the sensor upon which the controller controls an actuator such that the bale chute is pivoted to the second position which is sufficiently inclined to the horizontal such that the trailing end is sufficiently lowered to prevent a completed bale from toppling or being damaged, wherein the controller is configured to control the actuator such that the bale chute is pivoted from the first position to the second position after receiving the signal indicative of movement from the sensor. | 02-13-2014 |
20140039756 | PTO TRANSMISSION SYSTEM IN A WORK VEHICLE - A PTO transmission system in a vehicle for transmitting power to a PTO shaft driving an implement comprises a planetary drive unit having first and second input and output coupled to the PTO shaft. The first and second input are coupled to an output shaft of the vehicle engine and to an output shaft of a drive motor, respectively. A control system controls the transfer of power from a power source to the drive motor. The power source is a variable power generating source driven by the PTO shaft. The drive motor is configured and adapted to decrease or increase the rotational speed of the output of the planetary drive unit on an increase or decrease of the power transferred to it, respectively. | 02-06-2014 |
20140039719 | WIRELESS COMMUNICATION SYSTEM FOR AGRICULTURAL VEHICLES - A wireless communication system for agricultural vehicles, in which each vehicle has a global positioning system (GPS), a multi-channel transmitter/receiver module having a limited communication range, and a signal processor connected to the transmitter/receiver module. The transmitter is controlled by the signal processor to transmit on a predetermined communication channel a signal comprising a unique vehicle identifier and a signal indicating the current positional coordinates of the vehicle. The signal processor also analyzes the signals received from other vehicles within the communication range and determines from the identifier and the positional coordinates data when another vehicle is ready to perform a joint operation with the vehicle. Prior to initiation of a joint operation, the communication system is switched to a different communication channel. | 02-06-2014 |
20140033838 | PTO TRANSMISSION SYSTEM IN A WORK VEHICLE - A PTO transmission system in a vehicle for transmitting power to a PTO shaft driving an implement comprises a planetary drive unit having first and second input and output coupled to the PTO shaft. The first and second inputs are coupled to an output shaft of the vehicle engine and to an output shaft of a drive motor, respectively. A control system controls the transfer of power from a power source to the drive motor. The power source is a variable power generating source driven by the PTO shaft. The drive motor is configured and adapted to decrease or increase the rotational speed of the output of the planetary drive unit on an increase or decrease of the power transferred to it, respectively. | 02-06-2014 |
20140027135 | VERTICAL TILLAGE SYSTEM - A vertical tilling implement to be pulled behind and agricultural vehicle having a number of gangs of fluted-concave disc blades, rolling baskets, and wheels connected to a main frame. As the vertical tilling implement is pulled, the fluted-concave disc blades move the soil in a direction lateral to the side of the blades as well as up. Meanwhile, the rolling bars aid in leveling the seedbed and crushing the remaining large pieces of soil. The vertical tilling implement reduces the amount of subsoil compaction and cuts through heavy residue making it ideal for use in the fall or in the spring. | 01-30-2014 |
20140027134 | VERTICAL TILLAGE SYSTEM - A vertical tilling implement to be pulled behind and agricultural vehicle having a number of gangs of fluted-concave disc blades, rolling baskets, and wheels connected to a main frame. As the vertical tilling implement is pulled, the fluted-concave disc blades move the soil in a direction lateral to the side of the blades as well as up. Meanwhile, the rolling bars aid in leveling the seedbed and crushing the remaining large pieces of soil. The vertical tilling implement reduces the amount of subsoil compaction and cuts through heavy residue making it ideal for use in the fall or in the spring. | 01-30-2014 |
20140026533 | WINDGUARD MECHANISM OF A PICK-UP FOR AN AGRICULTURAL MACHINE - A windguard mechanism comprising a pair of arms attachable to the agricultural machine and a windguard plate extending between the pair of arms and positioned to hold down the crop material processed by the pickup mechanism. The windguard plate comprises a first plate fixed between the pair of arms and a second plate positioned movably with respect to the first plate, wherein the working surfaces of the first plate and of the second plate form a windguard working surface of an area independent on the position of the second plate. | 01-30-2014 |
20140025264 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CHANGING A LID HEIGHT OF A HARVESTER - A harvester includes a crop receiver configured to receive agricultural material. The crop receiver includes a lid to cover a portion of the crop receiver. The harvester also includes a frame assembly coupled to the lid of the crop receiver. The harvester includes an actuator coupled to the frame assembly and configured to be controlled to adjust a vertical height of the lid. The harvester also includes a sensor coupled to the frame assembly and configured to indicate whether the lid is positioned at a first vertical height or a second vertical height. The harvester includes control circuitry coupled to the sensor and configured to instruct the actuator to move the lid of the crop receiver between the first vertical height and the second vertical height based at least partly on an indication from the sensor. | 01-23-2014 |
20140024420 | Combine Spreader Arrangement Having Independently Positionable Spreader Disks - A spreader assembly for a combine harvester is disclosed, the assembly including a pair of disks configured to be rotated such that chaff material dropped onto the disks is spread about the combine harvester, wherein each disk is operably connected to its own motor and a spreader frame assembly. The spreader frame assembly includes a first side support pivotably connected to a frame of the combine harvester, a second side support pivotably connected to the frame of the combine harvester, and at least one disk support configured to support at least one of the pair of disks. The spreader frame assembly further defines an opening configured such that when the combine harvester is windrowing material, no portion of the spreader frame assembly interferes with the flow of windrowing material. | 01-23-2014 |
20140020352 | INITIATING TRACTOR STOP AND BALE WRAP FUNCTION - A combination tractor and baler is provided to automate tractor stopping and baler wrapping while incorporating operator interaction to improve the efficiency of the tractor and baler combination in operation. Automated control systems and manual operator devices are utilized to improve the timing of the tractor stop and baler wrapping time sequences. Various methods to improve efficiency, including methods to synchronize tractor stop with wrapping activation are provided. | 01-23-2014 |
20140018134 | COMBINE STEPPED THRESHING CHAMBER - A combine threshing system includes a rotor having and in-feed area at a front end of the rotor and a rotor body configured to convey material along a helical path from the front end of the rotor body to a rear end of the rotor body. The system also includes a substantially cylindrical threshing chamber positioned circumferentially around and spaced apart from the rotor body. The threshing chamber includes a lower portion substantially concentric with the rotor body and having an inner surface positioned a first distance from an outer surface of the rotor body and an upper portion having a first inner surface substantially concentric with the rotor body and positioned the first distance from the outer surface and a second inner surface that is substantially concentric with the rotor body, positioned a second distance from the outer surface and is greater than the first distance. | 01-16-2014 |
20140013896 | CONTROL AND STEERING DEVICE FOR A CRAWLER VEHICLE - A control device for a crawler vehicle comprises a control lever activated by an operator about a fulcrum and having a free end, the control lever being displaceable along a longitudinal direction of the vehicle between a proximal position closer to the operator and a distal position further from the operator in order to control a main clutch of the vehicle, the control device further comprising a support element suitable for being fixed to a body of the vehicle in order to support an operator's hand when the hand acts on the control lever, the control lever having an intermediate portion interposed between the free end and the fulcrum, the intermediate portion being so shaped as to partially embrace the support element in the proximal position. | 01-16-2014 |
20140013892 | CONTROL DEVICE FOR A CRAWLER VEHICLE - A control device for a crawler vehicle, comprising a control lever activated by an operator about a fulcrum and having a free end, the control lever being displaceable along a longitudinal direction of the vehicle between a proximal position closer to the operator and a distal position further from the operator in order to control a main clutch of the vehicle, the control device further comprising a support element suitable for being fixed to a body of the vehicle in order to support an operator's hand when the hand acts on the control lever, wherein the control lever has an intermediate portion interposed between the free end and the fulcrum, the intermediate portion being so shaped as to partially embrace the support element in the proximal position. | 01-16-2014 |
20140013733 | METHOD FOR SELECTIVELY CHARGING AND DISCHARGING A STEERING ACCUMULATOR - A system and method for selectively charging and discharging a steering accumulator are provided. One vehicle steering system includes a hydraulic pump configured provide a source of pressurized hydraulic fluid for use in steering the vehicle. The steering system also includes an accumulator configured to hold pressurized hydraulic fluid from the pump for use in steering the vehicle in case of need. The steering system includes a charging circuit configured to selectively allow the hydraulic fluid to flow from the hydraulic pump to the accumulator based on a fluid pressure applied by a first pilot and a second pilot. The steering system includes a charging bypass circuit configured to allow the hydraulic fluid to flow to a steering control unit and to bypass the charging circuit. The hydraulic pump supplies fluid to the charging circuit and the bypass circuit. | 01-16-2014 |
20130341966 | CAB SUSPENSION SYSTEM FOR AN OFF-ROAD VEHICLE - A suspension system for a cab of an off-road vehicle includes a superstructure configured to receive a cab frame. The superstructure forms a framework, the corners of which receive suspension assemblies and dampers. The suspension assemblies include one or more springs or resilient elements to resist suspension motion, and the dampers provide dampening of the motion. Lateral and longitudinal suspension motions are resisted by links between the corners of the superstructure. An anti-roll bar reduces roll. The entire suspension system may be pre-assembled and then joined to the vehicle chassis frame. The cab frame may then be placed on the suspension system. Parts of the suspension system may interface with and be housed by roll-over protective structures. | 12-26-2013 |
20130332003 | COMBINE PERFORMANCE EVALUATION TOOL - An evaluation tool related to operation of a combine is provided to aid an operator of the combine. A processing device implements the evaluation tool by receiving an input related to an evaluation to be performed from the operator of the combine. The processing device initializes the evaluation to be performed. A plurality of sensors are operably connected to the processing device and collect data related to the operation of the combine during the evaluation. The processing device analyzes the collected data and presents the analyzed data to the operator of the combine. As such, the operator may review the analyzed data and make an informed choice in proceeding with the combine operation, such as changing settings or operating components to affect the combine performance. | 12-12-2013 |
20130325267 | AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENT WITH COMBINED DOWN FORCE AND DEPTH CONTROL - An agricultural implement system is provided that includes a down force cylinder configured to apply a downward force to a row unit, and a depth control cylinder configured to vary a penetration depth of a ground engaging tool of the row unit. The agricultural implement system also includes a valve assembly in fluid communication with the down force cylinder and the depth control cylinder. The valve assembly is configured to automatically adjust the downward force by varying fluid pressure within the down force cylinder based on fluid pressure within the depth control cylinder. | 12-05-2013 |
20130324199 | REGULATOR OF RESIDUE FLOW FOR SPREADING DEVICES ON AGRICULTURAL COMBINES - An agricultural combine having an adjustable spreader assembly is provided that includes a spreader, a regulator and a rotary spreader. The spreader is operatively connected to a rear end of the agricultural combine and includes a housing and rotary blades. The housing has an inlet for receiving a flow of residue, and an outlet configured about a lateral side of the housing for discharging the flow of residue. The rotary blades are operatively connected to the housing for rotating therein. The regulator has a proximal end pivotably connected to a lateral side of the spreader about a substantially vertical axis to pivot the regulator in a fore and an aft direction, and a distal end opposite the proximal end. The regulator is in fluid communication with the housing. The rotary spreader is positioned proximate the distal end of the regulator and receives and distributes the flow of residue. | 12-05-2013 |
20130319701 | HITCH ASSEMBLY AND CROSS-TUBE STRUCTURE FOR AN AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENT - An agricultural implement is provided that includes a frame assembly. Moreover, the agricultural implement includes a multiple wheel assemblies coupled to the frame assembly. Additionally, the agricultural implement includes a cross-tube coupled to wheel assemblies and positioned between the wheel assemblies. The agricultural implement includes a rear hitch assembly coupled to the frame assembly. The rear hitch assembly is also configured to be coupled to an auxiliary implement. Furthermore, the cross-tube is positioned vertically above the rear hitch assembly. | 12-05-2013 |
20130319699 | HITCH ASSEMBLY FOR AN AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENT - An agricultural implement is provided that includes a frame assembly. Moreover, the agricultural implement includes a rear hitch assembly coupled to the frame assembly. The rear hitch assembly includes a first arm, a second arm, and a hitch. The first arm and the second arm extend between the frame assembly and the hitch. The hitch is configured to be coupled to an auxiliary implement. Furthermore, the agricultural implement includes a ground engaging assembly which is coupled to the frame assembly, positioned between the first arm and the second arm, and includes a closing system. | 12-05-2013 |
20130319698 | AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENT WITH COMBINED DOWN FORCE AND DEPTH CONTROL - An agricultural implement system is provided that includes a down force cylinder configured to apply a downward force to a row unit, and a depth control cylinder configured to vary a penetration depth of a ground engaging tool of the row unit. The agricultural implement system also includes a valve assembly in fluid communication with the down force cylinder and the depth control cylinder. The valve assembly is configured to automatically adjust the downward force by varying fluid pressure within the down force cylinder based on fluid pressure within the depth control cylinder. | 12-05-2013 |
20130313077 | COMBINE CROP CONVEYING AND FEEDING SYSTEM - A combine feeding system includes a lower conveyor roller configured to rotate around a lower conveyor roller axis, an upper conveyor roller configured to rotate around an upper conveyor roller axis and a drive shaft configured to rotate around a drive shaft axis. The lower conveyor roller axis, upper conveyor roller axis and drive shaft axis are substantially perpendicular to first and second housing walls. The feeding system also includes at least one chain configured to move over the drive shaft, the lower conveyor roller and the upper conveyor roller. The feeding system further includes at least one lower support arm coupled to the drive shaft and the lower conveyor roller and configured to pivot about the drive shaft axis. At least one force mechanism is configured to apply a force to the at least one chain in at least one of a first direction and a second direction. | 11-28-2013 |
20130305683 | Pickup for an Agricultural Machine - An agricultural machine having a frame carrying a crop pickup mechanism and supported on the ground by means of two support wheels. Each support wheel is rotatably mounted on a carrier that is connected to the frame of the pickup for rotation about a caster axis. Each wheel carrier is connected by a respective spring to a point fixed relative to the frame of the pickup. The spring biases the carrier to cause the support wheel to park in a predetermined direction relative to the frame of the pickup. | 11-21-2013 |
20130305658 | METHOD OF TAGGING SQUARE BALES - A method and apparatus for inserting a tag into a bale of agricultural material is disclosed. The tag is inserted into the bale material, during bale production, such that the tag is within the bale material, but within reading distance of an outer surface of the final bale. In square bales, the tag is placed in either the first or last slice of the bale. In round bales, the tag is place in the outer circumferential layer of the bale as it is formed. The tag may be gravity fed or forcibly fed into the stream of crop material as it passes from the baling apparatus pick-up to the baling chamber. A system for identifying and tracking an individual bale is also disclosed. | 11-21-2013 |
20130299205 | VERTICAL TILLAGE SYSTEM - A vertical tilling implement to be pulled behind and agricultural vehicle having a number of gangs of fluted-concave disc blades, rolling baskets, and wheels connected to a main frame. As the vertical tilling implement is pulled, the fluted-concave disc blades move the soil in a direction lateral to the side of the blades as well as up. Meanwhile, the rolling bars aid in leveling the seedbed and crushing the remaining large pieces of soil. The vertical tilling implement reduces the amount of subsoil compaction and cuts through heavy residue making it ideal for use in the fall or in the spring. | 11-14-2013 |
20130298716 | STEERING DEVICE FOR A VEHICLE - A steering device for a vehicle comprises a steering wheel including a central part arranged for facing a driver and a rim that can be rotated in order to steer the vehicle, the steering wheel further comprising air dispensing means for directing an air flow towards the driver. | 11-14-2013 |
20130284419 | COMBINE COOLING CONTROL SYSTEM - A combine cooling control system that includes at least one cooler for exchanging heat from a medium flowing through at least one combine system and the at least one cooler and at least one fan having at least one rotatable blade for generating airflow. The control system also includes at least one movable air director in proximity to the at least one cooler for controlling the airflow. The control system further includes a controller configured to receive at least one sensed operating condition from at least one operating condition sensor and determine one or more of a desired state for the at least one moveable air director and a desired speed of the at least one fan based on the received at least one operating condition. The control system further includes at least one an actuation device configured to move the at least one movable air director. | 10-31-2013 |
20130283749 | STALKED CROP HARVESTING HEADER AND METHOD FOR HARVESTING STALKED CROP MATERIAL - A tensioning system for maintaining the tension in a chain conveyor extended over at least one drive sprocket and one idler sprocket, and a method for maintaining the tension in a chain conveyor, in particular for example for a stalked crop harvesting header. The tensioning system comprises a first tensioning arm and a second tensioning arm rotatably connected to one another for rotation around a shaft onto which one of the sprockets is mounted, the second tensioning arm rotatably connected to a fixed point of a supporting plate, wherein the tension in the chain conveyor is maintained by rotational movement of at least one of the drive sprocket or the idler sprocket around a fixed point of the supporting plate. | 10-31-2013 |
20130255512 | Movable Friction Blocks for a Rectangular Baler - Rectangular baler comprising a bale chamber adapted to contain one or more bales; a compacting plunger for advancing crop material in a direction towards a discharge opening of the bale chamber; wherein the rectangular baler further comprises at least one friction block mounted moveably in a wall of the bale chamber such that at least a part of each friction block is moveable out of the wall; and biasing means adapted for biasing said at least one friction block in a position wherein said at least one friction block protrudes out of the wall. | 10-03-2013 |
20130253787 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING THE PRESSURE OF HYDRAULIC FLUID SUPPLIED WITHIN A WORK VEHICLE TRANSMISSION - A method for controlling the pressure of hydraulic fluid supplied within a transmission of a work vehicle. The method may generally include receiving a signal associated with a load condition of the work vehicle, determining a desired pressure for the hydraulic fluid supplied within the transmission based on the load condition and controlling a valve such that hydraulic fluid is supplied within the transmission at the desired pressure, wherein the transmission includes an input shaft, a counter shaft and at least two driven shafts extending parallel to the input and counter shafts. | 09-26-2013 |
20130252681 | CONVERSION KIT FOR AUTOMATING FOLDABLE AND UNFOLDABLE GRAIN TANK EXTENSIONS OF AN AGRICULTURAL COMBINE - A conversion kit for automating a foldable and unfoldable grain tank extension for an agricultural combine is provided. The conversion kit includes a first bracket assembly for attaching to a first grain tank extension, a second bracket assembly for attaching to a second grain tank extension and a control actuator. The control actuator extends between and is operatively connected to the first and second bracket assemblies for moving the first and second brackets between a folded position and an unfolded position. A torque rod assembly extends between and is operatively connected to third and fourth grain tank extensions. The torque rod assembly is rotatable to pivotally move the third and fourth grain tank extensions between a folded position and an unfolded position. | 09-26-2013 |
20130248214 | MANUAL BACKUP SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING FLUID FLOW TO CYLINDERS WITHIN AN AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENT - An agricultural implement system is provided that includes a down force cylinder configured to apply a downward force to a row unit, a depth control cylinder configured to vary a penetration depth of a ground engaging tool of the row unit, a press wheel cylinder configured to vary contact force between a press wheel and a soil surface, a closing disk cylinder configured to vary contact force between a closing disk and the soil surface, a residue manager cylinder configured to vary contact force between a residue manager and the soil surface, or a combination thereof. The agricultural implement system also includes an electronic control unit configured to automatically regulate a pressure within the cylinders, and a manual backup system configured to facilitate manual pressure adjustment of the cylinders. | 09-26-2013 |
20130247717 | GEAR BOX ASSEMBLY FOR A TWIN ROTOR COMBINE - A gear box assembly for a twin rotor combine is provided. The gear box assembly includes a two speed gear box having a casing, an input shaft, an output shaft, and a two speed gear assembly housed within the casing and operatively connected between the input shaft and the output shaft. The gear box assembly also includes a splitter gear box operatively connected to the output shaft. The splitter gear box includes a housing, and a splitter gear assembly housed within the housing and configured to split a torque provided by the output shaft between a first output shaft and a second output shaft extending from the housing in a direction opposite a direction the output shaft extends from the two speed gear box. The two speed gear box is pivotable relative to the splitter gear box housing. | 09-26-2013 |
20130233187 | Baler and an ejection arrangement for a baler - A rectangular baler comprising a bale chamber; a compacting plunger moveable between a retracted position and an extended position; an ejection arrangement provided in a wall comprising a shuttle assembly with at least one dog mounted for protruding from said wall when the shuttle assembly is moving from a rest position in the forward direction to move one or more bales forward; wherein at least one end dog is located in the rest position of the shuttle assembly in a zone near of the plunger in the extended position thereof, such that when the shuttle assembly moves in the forward direction, said at least one end dog is engageable behind a bale adjacent the inlet of the bale chamber. | 09-12-2013 |
20130231823 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TRAJECTORY CONTROL OF A TRANSPORT VEHICLE USED WITH A HARVESTER - A control system and method is provided to control the trajectory of a transport vehicle ( | 09-05-2013 |
20130228035 | OPERATING MECHANISM FOR A BOWDEN CABLE - An operating mechanism is disclosed for a Bowden cable which comprises a support bracket, an operating lever, a hub mounted on the support bracket for rotation about a first axis by the operating lever, a transmission lever connectable to the Bowden cable and mounted on the support bracket for pivoting about a second axis orthogonal to the first axis, and an actuating arm connected at one end to the hub and connected at its end remote from the hub by a sliding ball and socket joint to the transmission lever so that rotation of the hub about said first axis causes rotation of the transmission lever about the second axis to extend and retract the Bowden cable. In the invention, sliding axis of the ball and socket joint is inclined relative to both the first axis and the second axis. | 09-05-2013 |
20130203333 | AGRICULTURAL VEHICLE CAB FITTED WITH AN HVAC SYSTEM - A cab of an agricultural vehicle has having a seat for an operator and a console unit arranged forward of the seat for housing an instrument display. The cab is fitted with an HVAC system comprising a heat exchanger unit located within the console unit and a blower located on the floor of the cab beneath or adjacent the seat and serving to blow air by way of a floor-level duct to the heat exchanger unit. | 08-08-2013 |