A system includes an agricultural implement and a tractor for pulling the implement. The implement includes a frame supporting at least one ground-engaging tool and at least one image imager system coupled to a longitudinal end of the frame. The tractor includes a central controller, wherein the at least imager system is operably coupled to the central controller. The central controller is configured to receive image data from an imager system, analyze the image data to identify at least one mark formed in a soil surface, and responsive to identifying the at least one mark, cause feedback regarding a current position and orientation of the implement and an ideal position and orientation of the implement to be output via an input/output device.
A method of operating an implement carrying tillage elements in an agricultural field includes traversing the field with the implement while the tillage elements engage soil of the field, detecting a tillage event based on an operating parameter, recording a location of the tillage event with at least one computer, stopping the implement within the field in response to the tillage event, and generating a first representation of the tillage elements engaged with the soil. The first representation is generated with information from at least one sensor. The tillage elements are lifted to disengage the tillage elements from the soil, and a second representation of the tillage elements disengaged from the soil is generated. The implement is backed rearward through the field with the tillage elements disengaged from the soil, and a third representation of a portion of the soil worked by the tillage elements is generated.
An adjustable joint is to be provided along a tube, such as a grain unloading tube of a combine harvester. A bearing system is provided between the facing end of first and second tubes. allowing a controllable bend to be provided between the first tube and the second tube. The bearing system is actuated to control the bend. The bearing system has first and second first tubular wedges which face each other at the sloped ends, and bearings around the outside ends and the facing ends. A relative rotation angle is set between the first and second tubular wedges to set the degree of bend.
A grain cleaning apparatus for a combine harvester has a linkage system for moving a grain pan or sieve with an oscillatory movement. A configuration of the linkage system is adjusted for example in dependence on a lateral inclination of the combine harvester, in particular by setting the position of a pair of arms of the linkage system, so that some points within the linkage system are fixed and other points are adjustable depending on the angle of inclination (but then remain static for a constant angle of inclination).
A quick hitch for an agricultural vehicle has a frame with an elongate top link member and a pair of leg members removably attached to the top link member. The top link member has a central portion extending generally horizontally in a lateral direction and a pair of side regions which extend laterally outwardly and downwardly from the central portion. Each leg member is removably attached to a distal end of a respective one of the side regions via a generally horizontally aligned joint. Each leg member may be secured to the top link member by fasteners which extend vertically, and which may be inserted and removed from above. The leg members may be attachable to the top link member in a first configuration to provide a quick hitch having a first width and in a second configuration to provide a quick hitch having a second width.
A01B 59/06 - Devices specially adapted for connection between animals or tractors and agricultural machines or implements for machines mounted on tractors
A method of storing information corresponding to crop material formed into a bale during a baling process for an aggregation of bales. Crop material is formed into a bale with the baler to obtain a formed bale. At least one parameter of the crop material or formed bale is detected with at least one crop sensor and/or bale sensor for the formed bale. The baler is provided with binding material from the binding material roll comprising identification tags at spaced intervals along the binding material. The formed bale is bound with the binding material using the knotter system such that an identification tag is applied to the bale to obtain a tagged bale. A bale ID is created for the tagged bale and the sensor parameter for the tagged bale is associated with the bale ID. Further crop material is formed into at least one additional bale with the baler to obtain at least one additional formed bale. The at least one additional formed bale is bound with the binding material such that an identification tag is not applied to the at least one additional formed bale to obtain at least one non-tagged bale. The at least one non-tagged bale is associated with the tagged bale and the tagged and non-tagged bales are formed into a bale aggregate.
A sickle header has right and left cutter bar assemblies each having a knife assembly configured to move in a reciprocating motion. A first transfer plate connects the knife assembly of the right cutter bar assembly and a second transfer plate connects the knife assembly of the left cutter bar assembly. A center sickle drive assembly includes first and second epicyclic drives connected to the right cutter bar assembly translate rotational movement of a drive motor gear into linear oscillating motion of output cranks that are connected to the first transfer plate. Third and fourth epicyclic drives connected to the left cutter bar assembly translate rotational movement of the drive motor gear into linear oscillating motion of output cranks that are connected to the second transfer plate, such that the cranks of the epicyclic drives simultaneously drive the knife assembly of the respective cutter bar assembly in a reciprocating motion.
A row unit for a corn header includes gathering chains, deck plates below the gathering chains, and rotatable stalk rolls below the deck plates. The deck plates each have a first portion defining a curved front edge and a second portion defining a straight inner edge, and the first portion of the first deck plate is raised with respect to the second portion of the first deck plate. The inner edges of the deck plates together define an elongate channel, and the curved front edges of the deck plates together define a tapered entry to the elongate channel.
A method includes calibrating a camera to detect a position of an implement relative to a tractor pulling the implement, traversing an agricultural field with the implement engaging soil of the field, capturing at least one image of the implement in the field by a camera carried by the tractor, and generating a first representation of a position of the implement relative to the field, using at least one computing device carried by the tractor. The calibration includes moving at least one of the tractor and the implement to each of a plurality of known positions, in series, relative to one another. At each of the known positions, at least one image of the implement is captured by the camera. Each of the known positions is correlated with the at least one image. The camera can alternatively be carried by the implement, and images of the tractor may be captured.
Described herein is a novel farming machine settings database as well as technologies for generating and updating the database using computing schemes such as schemes including artificial neural networks (ANNs) or, more specifically, convolutional neural networks (CNNs).
A filtering apparatus is configured to receive pressurized fluid from a pump. The filtering apparatus has a main inlet, a main outlet, and a filtering branch comprising a first filter. An agitator of a tank from which the pump draws is configured to receive fluid flow from the filtering branch via a proportional valve and an inlet connection. A method of operating a filtering system includes influencing fluid flow from a tank to one or more nozzles via a filtering apparatus; and diverting a portion of the fluid flow through plural filters of a different mesh size back to an agitating mechanism through a lower portion of the tank.
A system for storing gloves includes a storage box defining an internal cavity shaped to receive the gloves, a lid configured to cover the internal cavity, and a vacuum source configured to retain the gloves in the internal cavity when hands are removed from the gloves. A method includes opening a lid covering a storage box defining an internal cavity shaped to receive gloves, inserting hands covered by the gloves into the internal cavity, and applying a vacuum from a vacuum source to the internal cavity to remove the gloves from the hands.
B65D 85/18 - Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for wearing apparel, headwear or footwear
B65D 43/26 - Mechanisms for opening or closing, e.g. pedal- operated
B08B 3/02 - Cleaning by the force of jets or sprays
A loading apparatus for a round baler for loading a roll of binding material on the round baler is disclosed comprising a binding material support displaceable about a first end between a storage position and a transfer position, in which when in the storage position a first end of the binding material support is raised relative to a second end of the binding material support and when in the transfer position the first end of the binding material support is lowered relative to the second end of the binding material support.
A method of measuring a harvested crop includes measuring a first attribute of a first electric field in a first volume containing crop material, measuring a second attribute of a second electric field in a second volume containing crop material, and determining at least two different properties of the crop material based at least in part on the first attribute and the second attribute.
A nozzle assembly for use with an agricultural crop sprayer includes a nozzle body and a turbine element journaled to the body. The turbine element has a fluid-conveying internal passage having a rifled profile. Other nozzle assemblies have a nozzle tip journaled to a nozzle body, and the nozzle tip has a fluid-carrying passage with a surface profile configured to interact with fluid passing therethrough to apply a torque on the nozzle tip.
A01M 7/00 - Special adaptations or arrangements of liquid-spraying apparatus for purposes covered by this subclass
B05B 3/06 - Spraying or sprinkling apparatus with moving outlet elements or moving deflecting elements with rotating elements driven by the liquid or other fluent material discharged, e.g. the liquid actuating a motor before passing to the outlet by jet reaction
In one embodiment, a control system for a vehicle comprising an axle having a center pivoting axis and a frame coupled to the axle at the center pivoting axis, the control system comprising: one or more controllers; a control circuit; and one or more actuators located on one side or opposite sides, respectively, of the center pivoting axis and coupled to the axle and the frame of the vehicle, the one or more actuators configured by the one or more controllers and the control circuit to prevent tipping based on forces imposed on the vehicle.
A01D 41/127 - Control or measuring arrangements specially adapted for combines
B60G 9/02 - Resilient suspensions for a rigid axle or axle housing for two or more wheels the axle or housing being pivotally mounted on the vehicle
B60G 17/015 - Resilient suspensions having means for adjusting the spring or vibration-damper characteristics, for regulating the distance between a supporting surface and a sprung part of vehicle or for locking suspension during use to meet varying vehicular or s the regulating means comprising electric or electronic elements
A01D 41/12 - Combines, i.e. harvesters or mowers combined with threshing devices - Details of combines
A knotter assembly is used with a baler and configured to form knots in strands of a binding material used to secure a formed bale. The knotter assembly has a rotatably driven knotter disc, a rotary billhook driven by the knotter disc, and a twine disc assembly positioned adjacent the billhook for holding strands of binding material in position for engagement by the billhook. The billhook includes a billhook casting forming a platform, and a billhook tongue connected at a pivot point with the billhook casting. The platform has a first raised lip and a second raised lip forming a channel therebetween configured to receive the billhook tongue so as to firmly grasp the binding material. An upper surface of the first raised lip extends above an upper surface of the second raised lip.
An agricultural machine includes a cutting assembly, a forming assembly including a swathboard and/or a forming shield, at least one actuator, and a controller. The actuator is configured to change a position of the forming assembly. The controller is in communication with the actuator, and is configured to change the position of the forming assembly responsive to an expected or measured crop density. A method of operating an agricultural machine includes propelling an agricultural machine through a field and changing a position of the forming assembly based at least in part on an expected or measured crop density. The forming assembly may be adjusted to maintain an approximately constant windrow height or to produce windrows that are expected to be ready for baling or raking at the same time (e.g., after a period of drying).
A combine harvester having a cleaning shoe includes a housing, a chaffer having a frame assembly and a plurality of first louvers rotatably mounted to the frame assembly, and a blower comprising a plurality of second louvers. The first louvers are configured to rotate about lateral axes thereof, the lateral axes perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the combine harvester. The second louvers are configured to change a lateral direction of air flow from the blower to the chaffer. Another combine harvester has a plurality of second louvers below first louvers of a chaffer. Each of the second louvers are configured to rotate about an axis perpendicular to the lateral axes of the first louvers of the chaffer. A method of operating a combine includes rotating at least one second louver to change a direction of the air flow in the cleaning shoe before the air flow reaches the chaffer.
A baler includes a near-infrared testing system configured to receive near-infrared radiation reflected by plant material in a bale and to analyze the near-infrared radiation and generate evaluation data reflecting one or more properties of the plant material. The near-infrared testing system is calibrated using a calibration sample at a calibration temperature. A temperature sensor measures a sample temperature of a crop sample of the plant material. A computer receives and combines the evaluation data of the plant material and a temperature-difference offset based on the difference in the sample temperature of the crop sample and the calibration temperature to produce overall temperature-compensated evaluation data reflecting one or more overall property values for the bale, and assign the overall temperature-compensated evaluation data to the at least one bale of the plurality of bales.
G01N 21/3563 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using infrared light for analysing solids; Preparation of samples therefor
A01F 15/08 - Baling presses for straw, hay or the like - Details
G01N 21/359 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using infrared light using near infrared light
In a high capacity baling apparatus concurrently formed first formed bales and second formed bales are discharged from respective bale forming regions to a discharge chute arrangement. The disclosed discharge chute arrangement comprises a first bale support surface, a second bale support surface adjacent to the first bale support surface and disposed at an angle to the first bale support surface, an impeller located at a downstream end of the second bale support surface and a displacement apparatus adapted to move between a first position at one side of the first bale support surface and a second position.
A wheel-mounting assembly for a utility vehicle includes a chassis and a wheel support assembly mounted to respective outboard ends of first and second telescopic axle assemblies. The first and second telescopic axle assemblies are laterally spaced from one another and are each secured to the chassis. The first and second telescopic axle assemblies each include a respective actuator arranged to control extension and retraction thereof for steering and track-width control.
A01B 63/00 - Lifting or adjusting devices or arrangements for agricultural machines or implements
B62D 5/09 - Power-assisted or power-driven steering fluid, i.e. using a pressurised fluid for most or all the force required for steering a vehicle characterised by means for actuating valves
B60B 35/10 - Dead axles, i.e. not transmitting torque adjustable for varying track
B62D 49/06 - Tractors adapted for multi-purpose use
23.
METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR OBTAINING A SAMPLE OF DRY PRODUCT FROM A RECEPTACLE
A sampling system and method are used for extracting a sample of dry product from a receptacle. An extraction tube having a perforated portion is disposed in a product storage volume of the receptacle. A pressurized air source is connected to a first end of the extraction tube. A sample collection device is located outside of the receptacle and serves to separate the sample from an airflow driven by the pressurized air source. An inlet of the sample collection device is connected to a second end of the extraction tube. A sample outlet is adapted to dispense the sample, and an air outlet is provided for venting pressurized air.
A liquid distribution system for a crop sprayer includes a product tank configured to contain a liquid, a pump, and nozzles carried by a boom. The product tank has a fluid inlet, and at least one water quality sensor is configured to detect a water quality property of liquid entering the product tank through the fluid inlet. Methods of operating a crop sprayer include measuring a first water quality property of fresh water entering a product tank, measuring a second water quality property of rinsate formed from the fresh water within the product tank, removing the rinsate from the product tank, and if a difference between the second water quality property and the first water quality property is greater than a preselected threshold, forming a second rinsate in the product tank.
A01C 23/00 - Distributing devices specially adapted for liquid manure or other fertilising liquid, including ammonia, e.g. transport tanks or sprinkling wagons
B05B 12/08 - Arrangements for controlling delivery; Arrangements for controlling the spray area responsive to condition of liquid or other fluent material discharged, of ambient medium or of target
A system for applying an herbicide to an agricultural field includes a sensor configured to measure total vegetation density in the agricultural field; and an applicator vehicle comprising a chassis, a liquid holding tank carried by the chassis, and at least one nozzle carried by the chassis and in fluid communication with the liquid holding tank. A controller is configured to control an amount of flow of herbicide through the nozzle(s) based on the total vegetation density measured by the sensor. A method of applying an herbicide to an agricultural field includes measuring a total vegetation density in the agricultural field and spraying a variable amount of an herbicide through at least one nozzle onto the agricultural field. The amount of herbicide is based on the measured total vegetation density, without regard to distinction between crop and weed.
A01M 7/00 - Special adaptations or arrangements of liquid-spraying apparatus for purposes covered by this subclass
G05B 19/416 - Numerical control (NC), i.e. automatically operating machines, in particular machine tools, e.g. in a manufacturing environment, so as to execute positioning, movement or co-ordinated operations by means of programme data in numerical form characterised by control of velocity, acceleration or deceleration
26.
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ADJUSTING THE CHASSIS HEIGHT OF A MACHINE
A chassis-height adjustment system for an agricultural application machine includes support assemblies supporting a chassis on a ground-engaging elements, each having a height adjustment actuator. A canopy sensor is disposed to detect a crop canopy height relative to the chassis. The height adjustment actuators are automatically adjusted in response to the crop canopy height to maintain a desired clearance between the chassis and the crop canopy.
A chassis-height adjustment system for selectively raising and lowering a chassis relative to a ground surface includes a plurality of support assemblies supporting a chassis on respective ground-engaging elements. Each support assembly has a height adjustment actuator. Each height position sensor senses an adjustment position one of the height adjustment actuators and generates a height signal. Each of the support assemblies may be mounted to the chassis by a track-width adjustment mechanism having a track-width adjustment actuator. The height adjustment system is controlled in a manner to synchronize each height adjustment actuator with the other actuators. Adjustment of one or more height adjustment actuators is slowed or stopped in the event that other actuators need to catch up. The track-width adjustment actuators may shift the position of the associated ground-engaging element laterally relative to the chassis to keep the ground-engaging elements from sliding laterally as the chassis height changes.
An implement for working an agricultural field includes a frame and a plurality of row units carried by the frame. Each row unit includes a subframe trailing the frame and connected to the frame by an upper link and a lower link, at least two different ground-engaging tools carried by the subframe, and at least one pneumatic actuator configured to change a length of the upper link or the lower link to keep the ground-engaging tools in contact with ground. A method includes pulling the implement through the agricultural field, maintaining a selected pressure in the pneumatic actuator, and maintaining the ground-engaging tools in contact with the agricultural field.
An agricultural implement includes a longitudinally extending frame configured to be coupled to a tractor, a first elongate toolbar extending laterally outward from the frame and carrying a first row unit, a second elongate toolbar extending laterally outward the frame and carrying a second row unit, a first sensor configured to sense a position of the first row unit relative to ground, a second sensor configured to sense a position of the second row unit relative to the ground, a first actuator configured to rotate the first elongate toolbar relative to the frame based at least in part on the sensed position of the first row unit, and an actuator configured to rotate the second elongate toolbar relative to the frame based at least in part on the sensed position of the second row unit. Control systems and related methods are also disclosed.
An agricultural machine includes a frame member; a toolbar coupled to the frame member parallel to the frame member; a row unit coupled to the toolbar; and an actuator coupled between the frame member and the toolbar, the actuator configured to rotate the toolbar based on a sensed position of the toolbar. Related methods are also disclosed.
A01B 63/114 - Lifting or adjusting devices or arrangements for agricultural machines or implements for implements mounted on tractors operated by hydraulic or pneumatic means regulating working depth of implements to achieve a constant working depth
A01B 63/102 - Lifting or adjusting devices or arrangements for agricultural machines or implements for implements mounted on tractors operated by hydraulic or pneumatic means characterised by the location of the mounting on the tractor, e.g. on the rear part
A01B 63/111 - Lifting or adjusting devices or arrangements for agricultural machines or implements for implements mounted on tractors operated by hydraulic or pneumatic means regulating working depth of implements
A01B 63/28 - Tools or tool-holders adjustable relatively to the frame operated by the machine or implement
A system and method for controlling operation of one or more controllable components of an agricultural baler. A deposit strategy is determined. One or more operational components associated with the baler are controlled in dependence on the determined deposit strategy to control the deposit of one or more formed bales in accordance with the determined deposit strategy.
An ejection chute for an agricultural baler has an ejection chute that includes a channel having a base wall and first and second side walls extending upwards from either side of the base wall, and in which a region of the base wall is provided with a first window. Various deposit mechanisms are provided for controlling movement of a formed bale through the first window.
An agricultural machine includes a frame member; a toolbar coupled to the frame member parallel to the frame member; a row unit coupled to the toolbar; and an actuator coupled between the frame member and the toolbar, the actuator configured to rotate the toolbar based on a sensed position of the toolbar. Related methods are also disclosed.
A01B 63/114 - Lifting or adjusting devices or arrangements for agricultural machines or implements for implements mounted on tractors operated by hydraulic or pneumatic means regulating working depth of implements to achieve a constant working depth
A01B 63/102 - Lifting or adjusting devices or arrangements for agricultural machines or implements for implements mounted on tractors operated by hydraulic or pneumatic means characterised by the location of the mounting on the tractor, e.g. on the rear part
A01B 63/111 - Lifting or adjusting devices or arrangements for agricultural machines or implements for implements mounted on tractors operated by hydraulic or pneumatic means regulating working depth of implements
A01B 63/28 - Tools or tool-holders adjustable relatively to the frame operated by the machine or implement
34.
AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENTS HAVING FOLDABLE MARKER ASSEMBLIES
An agricultural implement includes a frame supporting a plurality of ground-engaging tools and a foldable marker assembly having a first marker arm coupled to the frame at a first pivot joint. The first marker arm is operable to pivot between an extended position extending laterally outward from the frame and a folded position at an acute angle relative to the frame.
A knot stretcher for use in tightening splice knots that connect twine balls on an agricultural baler. The knot stretcher includes a pair of pulling bars connected at pulling bar pivot at one end of each of the pulling bars, and a pair of levers, where one of the pair of levers is attached in a middle section of its respective pulling bar. Each lever has a handle portion at one end and an arm portion extending from an elbow formed in the lever. Each lever attaches to its respective pulling bar with a fixed pivot located near the elbow and distal ends of the arm portions of the two levers are attached at a moving pivot. The knot stretcher has clamping jaws positioned on the pulling bars to securely clamp a respective one of the twine tails of the splice knot that is to be tightened.
In one embodiment, an in-line tandem axle assembly comprising: a tandem wheel arm; a pair of wheel connecting assemblies, each comprising a hub and a spindle; a pair of mounts coupled respectively to the pair of wheel connecting assemblies; a pair of wheels coupled respectively to the pair of wheel connecting assemblies, the pair of wheels separated by the tandem wheel arm and in a same fore-and-aft position; and plural pairs of parallel links of equal length pivotably mounted to the pair of mounts and pivotably mounted to the tandem wheel arm.
A01B 63/16 - Lifting or adjusting devices or arrangements for agricultural machines or implements for implements drawn by animals or tractors with wheels adjustable relatively to the frame
A01B 63/24 - Tools or tool-holders adjustable relatively to the frame
A01B 73/06 - Folding frames foldable about a vertical axis
37.
LADDER SYSTEMS, AGRICULTURAL VEHICLES, AND RELATED METHODS
A ladder system includes a rail, a ladder bracket supported by and configured to slide along the first rail and the second rail, a ladder coupled to the ladder bracket and configured to rotate with respect to the ladder bracket between a lowered position and a storage position, and a bumper coupled to the ladder and configured to apply a force to a bumper stop when the ladder is in the lowered position to keep the ladder bracket from sliding along the rail. An agricultural vehicle includes a chassis supported by a plurality of wheels, and a ladder system carried by the chassis. Related methods are also disclosed.
Described herein are technologies for mapping sensed positions of a toolbar of an agricultural implement, such as when the implement moves through a crop field. The technologies include a method including (1) sensing a position of the toolbar at a geographic location of the field, (2) matching the location of the field with a position in a map of the field corresponding to the location, and (3) associating the sensed position of the toolbar to the position in the map. In some embodiments, the method includes repeating the aforesaid operations for multiple geographic locations of the field and rendering an image of the map to be displayed in a GUI. Also, in some embodiments, the method includes rendering the image of the map with an image of a yield map of the field. In some embodiments, the method includes generating a topographic map based on the sensed toolbar positions.
Described herein are technologies for mapping sensed positions of operative rows of an agricultural implement, such as when the implement moves through a crop field. The technologies include a method including (1) sensing a position of an operative row at a geographic location of the field, (2) matching the location of the field with a position in a map of the field corresponding to the location, and (3) associating the sensed position of the row to the position in the map. In some embodiments, the method includes repeating the aforesaid operations for multiple geographic locations of the field and rendering an image of the map to be displayed in a GUI. Also, in some embodiments, the method includes rendering the image of the map with an image of a yield map of the field. In some embodiments, the method includes generating a topographic map based on the sensed row positions.
A baler a chute assembly extending in a rearward direction from a baling chamber configured to simultaneously receive first and second bales as the bales are urged out of the baling chamber. The chute assembly includes a rail assembly and an opposing shelf assembly, the rail assembly and the shelf assembly cooperating to form a cavity therebetween. The rail assembly includes an upper rail and a lower rail with the lower rail offset from the upper rail in a horizontal direction toward the cavity, and the shelf assembly includes a horizontal first surface, an ejection plate, an angled second surface and a guide rail. As the first and second bales are urged from the bale chamber the first bale engages the rail assembly and the second bale engages the shelf assembly. The chute assembly rotates the first and second bales as the bales drop from the chute assembly in a single line of bales arranged in an end-to-end orientation.
A tensioning bar assembly for a drive system of an agricultural machine includes a longitudinal bar having a top end, a bottom end, and a threaded portion. An attachment device is coupled to the top end to attach to a tensioning arm. A compression spring is located around a portion of the longitudinal bar. A first spring retainer engages with and retains a first end of the spring. A first locking nut fits to the threaded portion of the bar and retains the first spring retainer longitudinally in place relative to the bar. The longitudinal bar is rotationally freely coupled to the attachment device to permit free axial rotation of the bar about its longitudinal axis relative to the attachment device, and an engagement head is attached to and located at or proximate the bottom end of the longitudinal bar for engagement with a tool.
An agricultural machine has a capacitive sensor that includes a transmitter assembly having a signal driver, at least one guard driver, and at least one sensing circuit configured to detect an output of the signal driver. At least one sensing electrode is powered by the signal driver. At least one guard electrode is powered by the guard driver. The guard electrode is oriented such that a first electric field emanating from the sensing electrode is shaped at least in part by a second electric field emanating from the guard electrode. A method includes broadcasting a first electric field from a sensing electrode into a volume containing crop material, broadcasting a second electric field from a guard electrode, measuring an attribute related to the first electric field, and correlating the measured attribute related to the first electric field to a property of the crop material in the volume.
G01N 27/22 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of electric, electrochemical, or magnetic means by investigating impedance by investigating capacitance
A01D 41/127 - Control or measuring arrangements specially adapted for combines
43.
HEIGHT-ADJUSTABLE TRACK DRIVE SYSTEMS AND RELATED AGRICULTURAL VEHICLES AND METHODS
A height-adjustable track drive system for an agricultural vehicle includes a support frame having four fixed-length links, each link rotatably coupled to two adjacent links at pivot points. Four wheels are connected to the support frame, and each wheel is connected to the support frame at one of the pivot points. A hydraulic cylinder connects nonadjacent pivot points of the support frame. An endless track rollably contacts each of the four wheels, and one of the wheels includes a drive wheel configured to be connected to a chassis of the agricultural vehicle. Related agricultural vehicles and methods are also disclosed.
A twine tension monitoring apparatus is disclosed comprising a twine tension monitoring portion and a signalling portion. The twine tension monitoring portion includes a laterally extending finger moveable about a horizontally extending axis between a first position and a second position, in which the first position corresponds to a low tension condition and the second position corresponds to a tensioned condition. The signalling portion provides a signal indicating the position of the laterally extending finger and so indicates the tension being monitored.
A vehicle includes a chassis, ground-engaging elements configured to support the chassis, support assemblies supporting the chassis on the ground-engaging elements, adjustable axles configured to change a lateral distance from the chassis to each of the support assemblies, and a controller configured to move the chassis laterally along the axles without changing a track width between ground-engaging elements on opposing sides of the chassis. Disclosed methods may be used to remove and install application systems on the vehicle.
A01B 63/02 - Lifting or adjusting devices or arrangements for agricultural machines or implements for implements mounted on tractors
A01M 7/00 - Special adaptations or arrangements of liquid-spraying apparatus for purposes covered by this subclass
B60G 17/016 - Resilient suspensions having means for adjusting the spring or vibration-damper characteristics, for regulating the distance between a supporting surface and a sprung part of vehicle or for locking suspension during use to meet varying vehicular or s the regulating means comprising electric or electronic elements characterised by their responsiveness, when the vehicle is travelling, to specific motion, a specific condition, or driver input
B60G 3/01 - Resilient suspensions for a single wheel the wheel being mounted for sliding movement, e.g. in or on a vertical guide
A system and method for evaluating individual subunits of material incorporated into a bale and, based thereon, assigning a weighted average quality value to the overall bale. A baler receives, aggregates, compresses, shapes, and secures subunits of a plant material into a bale. An NIR testing system receives and analyzes near-infrared radiation reflected by the plant material, and generates subunit evaluation data reflecting properties of the material in the subunits. A computer receives and combines the subunit evaluation data to produce overall evaluation data reflecting properties of the bale, and assigns the overall evaluation data to the bale. Combining the subunit evaluation data includes assigning weights to the subunit evaluation data and then averaging the weighted subunit property values. Weighting may be based on the amount of time the NIR testing system is exposed to the material in each subunit, and the amount of time may be mechanically determined.
G01N 21/3563 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using infrared light for analysing solids; Preparation of samples therefor
G01N 21/84 - Systems specially adapted for particular applications
G01N 33/00 - Investigating or analysing materials by specific methods not covered by groups
G01N 21/359 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using infrared light using near infrared light
48.
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MORE ACCURATELY DETERMINING OVERALL QUALITY OF BALED PLANT MATERIAL
A system and method for preparing a sample area of a bale in order to more accurately evaluate the plant material incorporated into the bale. A baler receives, compresses, shapes, and secures material into the bale. A cutter mechanism cuts a portion of the material in the bale into similarly-sized particles. A mixer mechanism mixes the particles into a homogenous aggregate. A compression mechanism compresses the homogenous aggregate into the bale. An NIR testing system receives and analyzes near-infrared radiation reflected by the homogenous aggregate, and generates evaluation data reflecting properties of the material. The cutter may include knives mounted in a compression chamber of the baler. The mixer may be a relief feature on a center rail, the compressor may be a projecting feature on the center rail, and an NIR sensor may be mounted to the center rail so as to press against the surface of the bale.
G01N 21/3563 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using infrared light for analysing solids; Preparation of samples therefor
G01N 33/00 - Investigating or analysing materials by specific methods not covered by groups
G01N 21/359 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using infrared light using near infrared light
A mount for an electrical connector includes a generally cylindrical body, and a concave protrusion and a connector receptacle each extending from an outer surface of the body. The connector receptacle is structured to receive pair of mated electrical connectors, and the body further defines a first hole and a second hole through which fasteners may secure each electrical connector within the connector receptacle. An actuator assembly includes an actuator having at least one flexible wire electrically coupled to a first electrical connector, a mount, a mount fastener, and a connector fastener. The connector fastener is disposed within the first hole and secured around the connector receptacle and the first electrical connector. A method includes attaching a mount fastener around a mount to secure the mount to the actuator and attaching a connector fastener through the first hole, around the connector receptacle, and around the first electrical connector.
A vehicle includes a chassis, ground-engaging elements configured to support the chassis, support assemblies supporting the chassis on the ground-engaging elements, adjustable axles configured to change a lateral distance from the chassis to each of the support assemblies, and a controller configured to move the chassis laterally along the axles without changing a track width between ground-engaging elements on opposing sides of the chassis. Disclosed methods may be used to remove and install application systems on the vehicle.
B60G 17/016 - Resilient suspensions having means for adjusting the spring or vibration-damper characteristics, for regulating the distance between a supporting surface and a sprung part of vehicle or for locking suspension during use to meet varying vehicular or s the regulating means comprising electric or electronic elements characterised by their responsiveness, when the vehicle is travelling, to specific motion, a specific condition, or driver input
51.
AGRICULTURAL MACHINES AND METHODS FOR CONTROLLING WINDROW PROPERTIES
An agricultural machine includes a cutting assembly configured to cut a crop material, a forming assembly comprising at least one of a swathboard or a forming shield, at least one actuator configured to change a position of the forming assembly, a sensor configured to detect a yield and a moisture content of the crop material, and a controller in communication with the at least one actuator, wherein the controller is configured to change an operating parameter of the agricultural machine responsive to the detected yield and moisture content. Related methods include propelling the agricultural machine through a field, cutting a crop material with the cutting assembly, detecting a yield and a moisture content of the crop material with the sensor, and changing an operating parameter of the agricultural machine responsive to the detected yield and moisture content.
A bale binding mechanism is configured to wrap twine around a bale. The bale binding mechanism broadly includes a baling needle, a drive shaft, a clutch, and a trip mechanism. A baler chassis presents a baling chamber in which the bale is formed. The baling needle is shiftable relative to the baling chamber to advance twine along an end of the bale. The drive shaft is supported by the chassis to power the needle. The clutch is shiftable between an engaged condition in which the clutch drivingly interconnects the drive shaft and the needle, and a disengaged condition in which the clutch prevents the drive shaft from driving the needle. The trip mechanism includes a trip cam, drive wheel, and a lockout device. The trip cam is shiftable between a trip condition associated with engagement of the clutch and a metering condition associated with disengagement of the clutch. The drive wheel is operable to shift the trip cam when in the metering condition. The trip cam is shiftable from the metering condition to the trip condition to engage the clutch when the bale is formed to a desired size. The lockout device removably engages the trip cam to restrict the metering cam from shifting into the trip condition.
A duckbill assembly for a round baler is disclosed including first and second opposed elongate plates, the opposed elongate plates being directed towards one another so as to grip a portion of a wrapping material between the opposed elongate plates, wherein a portion of the first of the opposed elongate plates is formed of a manually displaceable material. This has as an advantage that the act of threading wrapping material into and through the duckbill assembly simply entails pulling the manually displaceable portion away from the opposing elongate plate, and dropping the wrapping material between the two elongate plates.
A track roller assembly for a work machine including a track roller frame with drive and idler wheels and an endless track disposed about the wheels, mid-rollers located between the drive and idler wheels, each mid-roller having a shaft mounted on a bogie frame and a pair of mid-roller hubs having roller wheels mounted on the shaft, one mid-roller hub and wheel on either side of the bogie frame, each mid-roller hub having a guide facing guide blocks, an alignment sensing mechanism to detect misalignment of the track, where the alignment sensing mechanism includes at least one sensor paddle mounted on the bogie frame such that a lobe of the sensor paddle resides adjacent the guide blocks such that sideways movement of the endless track belt causes the guide blocks to contact the sensor paddle before contacting the mid-rollers.
A track roller assembly for a work machine includes a track roller frame with drive and idler wheels and an endless track disposed about the wheels. Mid-rollers are located between the drive and idler wheels. Each mid-roller has a shaft mounted on a bogie frame and a pair of mid-roller hubs having roller wheels attached thereon mounted on the shaft, with one mid-roller hub and wheel on either side of the bogie frame. Each mid-roller hub has a guide facing the guide blocks. The track roller assembly has an alignment sensing mechanism to detect misalignment of the track. An adjustment mechanism is configured to adjust the alignment of the track in relation to the drive and idler wheels. A controller receives input from the sensor when the sensor paddle is moved to the misaligned position and causes the adjustment mechanism to adjust the alignment of the endless track belt.
A system and computer-implemented method for assessing an amount of ash includes an agricultural implement and an ash assessment system. The implement includes a crop processing portion configured to move a cut organic material in a field. The ash assessment system includes an ash sensor configured to determine a measured ash contamination value, a GNSS receiver configured to determine a geolocation, and a processor programmed to perform an ash assessment process. The process includes receiving the measured ash contamination value from the ash sensor and receiving the geolocation data from the GNSS receiver. The geolocation data corresponds to a geolocation of the measured ash contamination value. The process also includes correlating the measured ash contamination value and the geolocation data to one another and storing the measured ash contamination value and the geolocation data in a memory device that is coupled in communication with said processor.
A tillage implement includes a frame, at least one sensor carried by the frame and configured to measure a property of soil, and at least one gang assembly carried by the frame and following the at least one sensor. Each gang assembly carries a plurality of disc blades. An adjustment mechanism is operable to change an operating parameter of the gang assembly responsive to the measured property of the soil. A method of working an agricultural field includes detecting a property of soil in the agricultural field using at least one sensor carried by a tillage implement and adjusting an operating parameter of at least one gang assembly carried by the tillage implement. The gang assembly follows the sensor as the tillage implement traverses the field. The operating parameter of the gang assembly is based at least in part on the property detected by the sensor.
A01B 63/00 - Lifting or adjusting devices or arrangements for agricultural machines or implements
A01B 63/111 - Lifting or adjusting devices or arrangements for agricultural machines or implements for implements mounted on tractors operated by hydraulic or pneumatic means regulating working depth of implements
A01B 21/08 - Harrows with rotary non-driven tools with disc-like tools
58.
HARVESTING HEADERS HAVING AN OIL LEVEL INDICATOR, AND RELATED AGRICULTURAL VEHICLES AND METHODS
A harvesting header includes a header frame, rotary cutters carried by the header frame, a gearbox containing at least one gear coupled to each rotary cutter, and an electronic sensor to indicate an amount of oil in the gearbox. Each rotary cutter has a rotating disc with at least one blade for cutting crops. An agricultural vehicle includes a vehicle frame, at least one attached to the vehicle frame, and a harvesting header coupled to the vehicle frame by a plurality of hydraulic cylinders. A method of operating an agricultural vehicle includes adjusting at least one hydraulic cylinder to move a header frame to a known orientation, sensing a position of an oil surface in a gearbox, and determining or indicating an amount of oil in the gearbox based at least in part on the position of the oil surface.
Technologies for guiding an agricultural vehicle through crop rows using a camera and signal processing to locate the crop row or centers of the crop row. The signal processing uses a filter to filter data from images captured by the camera and locates the row or the centers based on the filtered data. The filter is generated based on a signal processing transform and an initial image of the crop row captured by the camera. The filter is applied to subsequent images of the crop row captured by the camera. In some embodiments, the camera includes one lens. For example, monocular computer vision is used in some embodiments. Also, in some embodiments, a central processing unit generates the filter based on the transform and the initial image of the crop row and applies the generated filter to the subsequent images of the row.
G06V 20/56 - Context or environment of the image exterior to a vehicle by using sensors mounted on the vehicle
G06V 10/42 - Global feature extraction by analysis of the whole pattern, e.g. using frequency domain transformations or autocorrelation
G06V 10/88 - Image or video recognition using optical means, e.g. reference filters, holographic masks, frequency domain filters or spatial domain filters
A crop monitoring system includes one or more sensors adapted to sense VOCs released by a growing crop and generate a detection signal that is representative of the sensed VOCs. A processor is configured to generate a nutrient status indicator from the detection signal. A user interface device is configured to display the nutrient status indicator for use in a crop management system.
A working machine assembly has a rotatable shaft and a power transmission device having a central hub with a bore there through configured to receive the rotatable shaft. The shaft and power transmission device are connected with a securing mechanism that includes a key inserted in a keyway formed in an inner surface of the central hub and a key seat formed along a portion of the shaft wherein the key prevents relative movement between the rotatable shaft and the attached power transmission device. The securing mechanism has a pin having a flat tapered surface. The pin is received in a cross hole in the hub and interacts with the key such that the tapered surface abuts the key. The pin has a threaded end. A nut is received on the threaded end and used to draw the tapered surface of the pin against the key in a wedging action.
F16D 1/08 - Couplings for rigidly connecting two coaxial shafts or other movable machine elements for attachment of a member on a shaft or on a shaft-end with hub and longitudinal key
A round baler having a baling chamber, a wrapping material reservoir, a feed apparatus having an actuator, the feed apparatus configured to convey a wrapping material from the wrapping material reservoir to the baling chamber, a cutting apparatus moveable between a retracted position allowing free movement of the wrapping material and an advanced position to cut the wrapping material, and a braking apparatus for applying a braking force on a roll of wrapping material installed in the wrapping material reservoir, and an actuator for controlling operation of the feed apparatus and the cutting apparatus. The round baler further comprises a tensioning element connecting the actuator to the braking apparatus to control a down force exerted on the roll of wrapping material and so control the tension in the wrapping material.
A system and method for physically associating an identifying element with a bale, wherein the element includes a unique identifier and includes or can be used to find calibration and evaluation information. A baler receives, compresses, shapes, and secures plant material into the bale. An NIR testing system, which is associated with the calibration information, receives and analyzes near-infrared radiation emitted by the plant material, and generates the evaluation information reflecting properties of the material. An element securement system physically secures to the bale the element which associates the unique identifier with the bale, wherein the unique identifier is associated with the calibration information for the NIR testing system and the evaluation information for the plant material. The element may be an RFID tag, and an element writing mechanism may electronically transfer the calibration information and/or the evaluation information to the element so that they can be read directly therefrom.
A cutting tool for a harvesting header includes a longitudinal member having a straight portion with a non-round cross-section, a hook coupled to the longitudinal member and configured to secure the longitudinal member to a divider of a harvesting header, and a cutting blade extending from the longitudinal member. A harvesting header for use with a crop-harvesting machine includes a header frame structured to be coupled to the crop-harvesting machine, a divider at an end of the header frame, and a cutting tool carried by the divider. The divider defines a tube therein, and the longitudinal member of the cutting tool is disposed at least partially within the tube. A method of preparing a harvesting header includes sliding a longitudinal member of a cutting tool into a tube within a divider, and engaging a hook to secure the longitudinal member to the tube.
A system and method for monitoring bale growth rate and mat thickness and controlling baler operations according to the monitoring of bale growth rate and mat thickness. A baler includes sensors and a control system that uses sensor output as input for its processes. The controller is configured to determine a value of a physical attribute in an operation of a baler based on data received from a sensor. Also, the controller is configured to estimate a mat thickness or a bale growth rate based on the determined value of the physical attribute. The controller is also configured to control an operation of the baler or an operation of a tow vehicle, configured to tow the baler, based on the estimated mat thickness or bale growth rate.
A seed filling system is mounted to a trailing implement that is towed by an agricultural the machine. The seed filling system has a reduced-volume receptacle for receiving seed and a metering assembly that causes the distribution of the seed through a manifold to respective storage containers of plural row units before the seed is dispensed to soil.
Technologies for monitoring discharged bales or bale position on a baler can be improved by applying processes for identifying radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag location. A bale can include an RFID tag and a baler can include an RFID reader. The RFID reader can interrogate the RFID tag and a computing device of or connected to the RFID reader can identify the location of the RFID tag based on the interrogation. The computing device can determine a position of the bale on the baler based on the identified location of the RFID tag since spatial information of the bale and the baler is known. Also, the computing device can estimate a geographic location of the bale, after it has been discharged from the baler, based on an identified location of the RFID tag and an identified geographic location of the baler during the discharge of the bale.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06K 19/07 - Record carriers with conductive marks, printed circuits or semiconductor circuit elements, e.g. credit or identity cards with integrated circuit chips
68.
ROTATABLE WING DIVIDERS, HARVESTING HEADERS, AND AGRICULTURAL MACHINES HAVING ROTATABLE WING DIVIDERS
An apparatus for dividing crops includes a support shaft (302) configured to be received by a fixed divider (206) of a harvesting header, a rotatable wing divider (300) coupled to the support shaft (302) at a pivot point (314), and a torsional biasing element configured to apply a biasing rotational force to the wing divider (300) relative to the support shaft (302). A harvesting header (200) includes a header frame (202), a first divider assembly, a second divider assembly, and at least one harvesting tool (204). The divider assemblies each include a fixed divider (206), a support shaft (302) carried by the fixed divider, a rotatable wing divider (300) coupled to the support shaft at a pivot point (314), and a torsional biasing element configured to apply a biasing rotational force to the wing divider (300) relative to the support shaft (302).
A harvesting header includes a header frame structured to be coupled to a crop-harvesting machine, dividers at each end of the header frame, and at least one harvesting tool carried by the header frame between the firth divider and the second divider. Each divider defines a tube therein structured to slidingly receive a divider point, Latches are configured to be partially within the tubes in one position, and entirely outside the tubes in another position, A divider point for a harvesting header includes a longitudinal member having a straight portion with a catch defined therein configured to he received within a tube defined by a divider of the harvesting header and a body extending from the longitudinal member, Methods of transporting and preparing harvesting headers are also disclosed.
A ladder system includes a fixed support, a ladder bracket supported by the fixed support, a ladder coupled to the ladder bracket and configured to rotate with respect to the ladder bracket between a lowered position and a storage position, and an air spring coupling the ladder to the ladder bracket and configured to apply a force to the ladder when the ladder is in the lowered position to keep the ladder in the lowered position. An agricultural vehicle includes a chassis supported by a plurality of wheels, and a ladder system carried by the chassis. Related methods are also disclosed.
A method of working a field includes collecting data from a harvester correlated to a map of a field, generating an operating parameter map of an operating parameter of a tillage implement, and adjusting the operating parameter of the tillage implement as the tillage implement traverses the field based on the operating parameter map and a location of the tillage implement within the field. The operating parameter map is correlated to the map of the field and based at least in part on the data collected by the harvester. Methods of operating a tillage implement include selecting a variation of an operating parameter of a tillage implement with respect to a position within a field based on information collected by a harvester, propelling the tillage implement through the field, and adjusting the operating parameter of the tillage implement based on the selected variation. Related non-transitory computer-readable storage media are disclosed.
In one embodiment, a skid plate comprising an upper surface and an opposing ground engaging surface, the ground engaging surface comprising one or more optical windows flush or extending beyond a plane of the ground engaging surface, each of the optical windows comprising an optically transparent material.
Technologies for determining test weight of a crop (such as technologies for determining test weight of corn) can be more accurate. The technologies can include a computing device configured to determine dimensions of kernels of a harvested crop in a combine harvester as well determine test weight of the crop based on the determined dimensions of the kernels. The determination can include deriving the test weight from a table including correlations between kernel dimensions and test weights. The table can be enhanced by a feedback loop, and the technologies can include a computing device that is configured to communicate test weights to an operator of a combine harvester during or after processing of the crop by the harvester. The technologies can also include a device that can generate a test-weight map based on determined test weights and locations of a crop field associated with the determined test weights.
Technologies for controlling operating clearance between a concave assembly and a crop processing rotor of a combine harvester can be automated. The technologies can include a device configured to estimate respective dimensions of kernels of a crop harvested by a combine harvester as well as determine boundary conditions for the operating clearance based on the estimated respective dimensions of the kernels. Also, the boundary conditions are related to respective central core sizes (such as respective cob sizes) which can be determined based on the estimated respective dimensions of the kernels. The determination can include deriving the boundary conditions from a table including correlations between kernel dimensions and central core sizes, and the table can be enhanced by a feedback loop. The operating clearance can be automatically adjusted according to the determined boundary conditions and some additional factors such as a debris-to-kernel ratio in an output of the harvester.
A method of operating a tillage implement includes providing a map of a field, defining a plurality of boundaries in the map, propelling the tillage implement through the field, and adjusting at least one operating parameter of the tillage implement when the tillage implement crosses a boundary of the plurality. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium may include instructions that when executed by a computer, cause the computer to propel a tillage implement through a field and adjust at least one operating parameter of the tillage implement when the tillage implement crosses a boundary defined in a map.
A method of operating a tillage implement includes performing a first calibration of the tillage implement based on a curated library, propelling the tillage implement through a field, capturing an image of the field with a camera carried by the tillage implement, comparing information from the captured image with the curated library, identifying residue based on the comparison of the information from the captured image with the curated library, modifying the curated library based on the captured image, and performing a second calibration of the tillage implement based on the modified library. The curated library includes a correlation of observed data with material properties of soil and/or residue, and may initially be based on information from other fields or prior times. The tillage implement has at least one ground-engaging tilling assembly, and propelling the tillage implement through the field causes the tilling assembly to work the soil.
An agricultural applicator machine has a frame and at least one horizontally extending boom assembly. The boom assembly pivots to a folded position in which it is secured in a boom-cradle mechanism. The boom-cradle mechanism includes a crossmember and a boom rest at an outer end of the crossmember, the boom rest having a rigid inboard boom stop, a rigid outboard boom stop, and a saddle portion. The inboard boom stop extends from the saddle portion in an out-of-phase configuration relative the outboard boom stop. The boom-cradle mechanism has a locking assembly having an actuator assembly configured to rotate the crossmember, and thus the cradle boom rest. The actuator assembly connects to the crossmember through a linkage assembly. The actuator assembly causes the crossmember to rotate causing the boom rest to move between an open position and a locked position.
A harvesting header includes a header frame structured to be coupled to the crop-harvesting machine, a hydraulic pump carried by the header frame, at least one tool carried by the header frame, a hydraulic fluid loop carried by the header frame, a fluid inlet structured to receive hydraulic fluid from the crop-harvesting machine, and a fluid outlet structured to deliver hydraulic fluid to the crop-harvesting machine. The hydraulic fluid loop is structured to circulate hydraulic fluid within the header from the hydraulic pump to the tool(s) and back to the hydraulic pump. Related methods of operating a harvesting header and a non-transitory computer-readable media are also disclosed.
G05B 19/4155 - Numerical control (NC), i.e. automatically operating machines, in particular machine tools, e.g. in a manufacturing environment, so as to execute positioning, movement or co-ordinated operations by means of programme data in numerical form characterised by programme execution, i.e. part programme or machine function execution, e.g. selection of a programme
82.
Display screen or portion thereof with graphical user interface
A bale binding mechanism is configured to secure a strand of binding material around a bale of severed crop material. The bale binding mechanism includes a chassis, a knotter head assembly, and a captive lock. The knotter head assembly is operable to form at least one knot in the strand of binding material. The knotter head assembly includes a knotter head frame swingably mounted relative to the chassis and rotatable into and out of an operating position where the knotter head assembly can form the at least one knot. The captive lock is shiftably supported by one of the chassis and the knotter head frame. The captive lock is removably engaged with the other one of the chassis and the knotter head frame to secure the knotter head assembly in the operating position, with the captive lock being releasable to permit rotation of the knotter head assembly out of the operating position.
A system for adjusting a tractor speed based on a performance of a pickup of a baler comprises a flow rate sensor, a processing element, and a tractor speed controller. The flow rate sensor senses a flow rate of a crop into the pickup and outputs a flow rate signal with a level that varies according to the flow rate of the crop into the pickup. The processing element receives the flow rate signal, receives a speed signal regarding a speed of a tractor pulling the baler, compares the flow rate from the flow rate signal with the speed from the speed signal to generate a comparison result, and outputs an electronic speed signal with a level that varies according to the comparison result. The tractor speed controller is configured to receive the speed signal and adjust a speed of the tractor according to the level of the speed signal.
A system for controlling a position of a pickup on a baler comprises a sensor, a processing element, and a pickup pivot mechanism. The sensor monitors a ground area, senses a presence or absence of a windrow, and outputs a sensor signal with a first level and/or data value indicating the presence of the windrow and a second level and/or data value indicating the absence of the windrow. The processing element receives the sensor signal, and outputs a pickup signal with a first level and/or data value when the sensor signal has the first level and/or data value and a second level and/or data value when the sensor signal has the second level and/or data value. The pickup pivot mechanism receives the pickup signal, lowers the pickup when the pickup signal has the first value, and raises the pickup when the pickup signal has the second value.
An apparatus having an accumulator fluidly coupled to a cylinder having a moveable rod and a pressure relief valve, the cylinder configured to produce an increase in resistance to retraction of the cylinder by re-routing fluid flow to the accumulator through the pressure relief valve after the rod has reached a defined retraction distance.
F15B 15/14 - Fluid-actuated devices for displacing a member from one position to another; Gearing associated therewith characterised by the construction of the motor unit of the straight-cylinder type
A sensor arrangement located on a baler for detecting rotation of a dispensing reel of wrapping material and including a rotary element having a textured surface and a sensor mounted on a displaceable mounting bracket wherein the rotary element is rotated by the dispensing reel during baling.
A twine tensioner arrangement for a baler including a pair of rollers, each of the rollers being rotatable about a shaft and having circumferential lobes, at least one of the shafts being mounted on a displaceable armature, displacement measurement apparatus to measure the displacement of the displaceable armature and a signalling apparatus to generate a signal if the displacement of the displaceable armature exceeds a predetermined value. This enables monitoring of the tension in a strand of twine entering the twine tensioner arrangement and when the tension exceeds a predetermined value, allows action to be taken to avoid a mistie or damage to the baler components.
A baler twine tension control assembly including a displacement detector and elements defining a twine path. The twine path enters and exits the twine tension control assembly and within the twine tension control assembly extends across a first fixed location and a second fixed location as well as across an intermediate displaceable location located between the first fixed location and the second fixed location. The displacement detector is connected to the intermediate displaceable location and generates a signal indicative of the displacement of the displaceable location.
A baler twine tension measurement assembly including a displacement detector and elements defining a first twine path. The first twine path extends between a first location and a second location which is angularly displaceable with respect to the first location. The displacement detector operates to generate a signal indicative of the angular displacement of the second location with respect to the first location.
A twine tension relief assembly for a baler including a tension detection apparatus for detecting the tension in a line of twine, a biased cutting element displaceable between a first retained position and a second released position and an actuator adapted to cause the biased cutting element to move from the first retained position to the second released position in response to a signal issued by the tension detection apparatus. The practical application includes when the tension in a strand of twine exceeds a predetermined threshold, the tension detection apparatus causes movement of the biased cutting element so that a strand of twine passing though the twine tension relief assembly is severed and damage to the knotter mechanism and its component parts is avoided.
A01F 15/08 - Baling presses for straw, hay or the like - Details
A01F 15/14 - Tying devices specially adapted for baling presses
B65H 63/04 - Warning or safety devices for use when unwinding, paying-out, forwarding, winding, coiling, or depositing filamentary material, e.g. automatic fault detectors or stop-motions responsive to excessive tension or irregular operation of apparatus
B65H 69/04 - Methods of, or devices for, interconnecting successive lengths of material; Knot-tying devices by knotting
A method of measuring residue ejected from an agricultural machine as the agricultural machine harvests a field includes transmitting an electromagnetic pulse toward a volume generally rearward of the agricultural machine, measuring a reflection of the electromagnetic pulse, calculating a property of residue ejected from the agricultural machine based on the measured reflection of the electromagnetic pulse, calculating a location at which the residue is expected to land in the field, and generating a residue map correlating an amount of residue with locations in the field.
G01N 22/00 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of microwaves or radio waves, i.e. electromagnetic waves with a wavelength of one millimetre or more
G01N 33/00 - Investigating or analysing materials by specific methods not covered by groups
There is described a wheel for use with an endless track system, the wheel comprising at least three substantially identical segments. Each of the segments comprising a support portion, a circumferential flange, and a rim portion. The rim portion is affixed to an outer face of the circumferential flange.
A pickup assembly for a baler includes crop strippers that loop around a reel, the crop strippers spaced such that spacing between adjacent strippers forms a slot that allows a tine to project outwardly from the reel. A pickup frame has upper and lower mounting stubs, wherein each of the upper mounting stubs has a notch located centrally in a forward end of the upper mounting stub. A rear end section of an upper leg of each stripper is engaged with a respective upper mounting stub and a rear end section of a lower leg is engaged with a respective lower mounting stub. A distal end of each upper leg has an outer plate separated from an inner plate so as to form a gap. The upper leg has an alignment tab such that when the leg is received on the stub, the tab engages with the notch in the stub. A gap-facing surface of one of the inner plate or the outer plate has a detent extending into the gap, and the upper mounting stub comprises a keyhole opening formed therein rearward of the notch.
A tillage implement has a frame with a center section and first and second outer wing sections hingedly attached the center section such that the wing sections can be operably raised and lowered between a field-working position and a transport position. The sections each carry tillage tools for working the soil. Controlling a precharge in a secondary side of a hydraulic circuit enables the operator of the implement to adjust the downward pressure precharge provided by a plurality of hydraulic cylinders based on a desired stiffness of the implement. A pressure-reducing valve is configured such that flow from the hydraulic supply applies downward pressure precharge on the plurality of tillage tools. Once this desired precharge has been achieved, flow from the hydraulic supply is shut off and a check valve holds the pressure such that the plurality of hydraulic cylinders holds the tillage tools in position.
A01B 63/32 - Tools or tool-holders adjustable relatively to the frame operated by hydraulic or pneumatic means
A01B 63/00 - Lifting or adjusting devices or arrangements for agricultural machines or implements
A01B 63/22 - Lifting or adjusting devices or arrangements for agricultural machines or implements for implements drawn by animals or tractors with wheels adjustable relatively to the frame operated by hydraulic or pneumatic means
A01B 49/02 - Combined machines with two or more soil-working tools of different kind
An implement includes an implement frame having an integrated elongate toolbar carrying at least one row unit, at least one wheel coupled to the implement frame and defining an axis of rotation, a sensor configured to sense a position of the at least one row unit relative to the ground, and a control system. The control system is configured to receive a signal related to the sensed position of the at least one row unit relative to the ground and cause a lift system to raise or lower a portion of the implement frame connected to the lift system to rotate the implement frame about the axis of rotation of the at least one wheel based at least in part on the signal. Control systems and related methods are also disclosed.
A system includes a tractor comprising a lifting hitch, and an implement comprising an implement frame carried by the lifting hitch. The implement frame has an integrated elongate toolbar carrying at least one row unit. A sensor is configured to sense a position of the at least one row unit relative to the ground. A control system is configured to receive a signal related to the sensed position of the at least one row unit relative to the ground and cause the lifting hitch to raise or lower a portion of the implement frame connected to the lifting hitch relative to the tractor based at least in part on the signal. Control systems and related methods are also disclosed.
A01B 63/00 - Lifting or adjusting devices or arrangements for agricultural machines or implements
B60D 1/46 - Traction couplings; Hitches; Draw-gear; Towing devices characterised by arrangements for particular functions for being adjustable vertically
B60D 1/24 - Traction couplings; Hitches; Draw-gear; Towing devices characterised by arrangements for particular functions
A01B 59/06 - Devices specially adapted for connection between animals or tractors and agricultural machines or implements for machines mounted on tractors
A01B 79/02 - Methods for working soil combined with other agricultural processing, e.g. fertilising, planting
A01B 63/118 - Mounting implements on power-lift linkages
G05D 3/12 - Control of position or direction using feedback
A crop monitoring system includes one or more sensors adapted to sense VOCs released by a growing crop and generate a detection signal that is representative of the sensed VOCs. A processor is configured to generate a nutrient status indicator from the detection signal. A user interface device is configured to display the nutrient status indicator for use in a crop management system.
In one embodiment, a computer-controlled method for adjusting a height of a header reel, the method comprising: measuring a rotational speed of the reel; measuring a force opposing rotation of the reel; determining a target load for the reel based on the measured rotational speed and the measured force and a first input; and causing movement of the reel according to the target load based on a change in load on the reel.
a, b) that is shiftable transversely to the crop-flow direction to adjustably vary the crop passage and thereby the flow of crop material to the baling chamber (44).
patents
