Machine Component Arrangement And Structure, E.g., Engine Placement, Grain Bin Patents (Class 460/119)
  • Patent number: 11903344
    Abstract: A system for controlling an unloading system of an agricultural harvester includes a frame. A crop unloading system includes an unloading tube operably coupled to the frame and a spout operably coupled with the unloading tube. The crop unloading system is configured to discharge harvested crop from the agricultural harvester. A computing system is communicatively coupled to a user interface and the crop unloading system. The computing system is configured to store a predetermined unloading position based on a defined location of the unloading tube and a defined location of the spout received through one or more inputs. When an input is actuated for a minimum threshold, the computing system controls an operation of one or more actuators such that the unloading system is moved relative to the frame from a current position to the predetermined unloading position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2024
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventors: Daniel Reed, Paul Deysher
  • Patent number: 11871696
    Abstract: In one aspect, a system for detecting crop levels within an agricultural harvester may include an elevator extending between a proximal end and a distal end, with the elevator being configured to carry harvested crops between the proximal end of the elevator and the distal end of the elevator. The system may also include a crop level sensor provided in operative association with the elevator. The crop level sensor may include a sensor body and a paddle pivotably coupled to the sensor body such that the paddle is configured to pivot relative to the sensor body when a crop level of the harvested crops conveyed by the elevator exceeds a threshold crop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2024
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventors: Craig E. Murray, Carlos Visconti
  • Patent number: 11719203
    Abstract: A system for cleaning an air intake screen of a work vehicle may include an engine air intake assembly having an air intake screen through which an airflow is directed for subsequent delivery to an engine of a work vehicle. The system may further include a nozzle provided in operative association with the engine air intake assembly and directed towards the air intake screen. Additionally, the system may include a pressurized fluid source configured to supply pressurized fluid to the nozzle. The pressurized fluid received by the nozzle is expelled from the nozzle and directed through the air intake screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2023
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventors: Samrendra Singh, Kaushal Ghorpade, Luca Levato, Hesam Abbassi, Panos Tamamidis
  • Patent number: 11523561
    Abstract: An arrangement for controlling the operation of a draper belt header of a combine harvester includes a central belt conveyor of the draper belt header having a drive for operably driving the conveyor and two outer belt conveyors attached to a feeder house of the combine harvester. The feeder house has a controllable height which may be controllably adjusted by an actuator. The arrangement further includes a control unit operable to stop the drive of the central belt conveyor or move it into a reversing mode if the feeder house is being raised by the actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2022
    Assignee: DEERE & COMPANY
    Inventor: Martin Bueermann
  • Patent number: 11116133
    Abstract: A control system for an agricultural work vehicle is provided, the control system includes at least one controller, at least one control input device configured to send control signals to the at least one controller, and a header positioning assembly configured to interchangeably couple a plurality of headers to a chassis of a traction unit. The header positioning assembly is moveable between a plurality of orientations with each of the plurality of orientations providing a unique mechanical advantage. The at least one controller is configured to output a plurality of control commands corresponding to the control signals generated by the at least one control input device, and the control commands are configured to effect movement of the header positioning assembly between the plurality of orientations. An agricultural work vehicle is provided and includes the control system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2021
    Assignee: DEERE & COMPANY
    Inventors: Austin J. Karst, Timothy J. Kraus
  • Patent number: 10537061
    Abstract: A system and method for monitoring and coordinating harvest operations is disclosed. The system and method includes a control system to real time monitor the grain capacity of one or more harvesters to optimize harvest operations. The control system may also monitor harvest and offload vehicle positions and provide instructions for optimizing harvest operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2020
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventors: Herbert M. Farley, Justin R. Ringwald, Ryan C. Benning, Jay D. Schroeder
  • Patent number: 10398085
    Abstract: An agricultural harvester includes a grain processing section having a sieve assembly. The sieve assembly is driven in fore and aft oscillation by an eccentric rotation device while permitting side to side movement. A drive arm to the sieve assembly has a connection interface to the eccentric rotation device permitting side to side movement during fore and aft oscillation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2019
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventors: Frank R. G. Duquesne, Curtis F. Hillen, Dieter Neirynck, Daniel T. Turner, Bart Derynck, Karl R. Linde, Raf De Smet
  • Patent number: 10368488
    Abstract: A system for sensing harvested crop levels within an agricultural harvester may include a crop tank configured to receive harvested crop. The system may further include a sensor configured to emit a sensor beam into the crop tank for reflection off of the top surface of the harvested crop. Additionally, the system may include a reflection panel positioned at a minimum detectable crop level within the crop tank. The reflection panel may be configured to reflect the sensor beam when the current crop level is vertically below the minimum detectable crop level. A center of the reflection panel may be positioned closer to the sensor than an outer edge of the reflection panel such that the reflection panel diffuses the sensor beam as it reflects off of the reflection panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2019
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventors: Justin M. Becker, Mark D. Dilts, Michael Minnich, Clayton E. Banks, Jr., Denver R. Yoder
  • Patent number: 10225988
    Abstract: An agricultural harvester includes a chassis, a cleaning system carried by the chassis, a crop material elevator supplied with crop material that has passed through the cleaning system and has a first inlet and a second inlet, and an auger system supplying the crop material from the cleaning system to the crop material elevator. The auger system includes a first auger defining an auger axis that extends in a conveying direction toward the crop material elevator and is configured to supply crop material to the first inlet, a second auger defining a second auger axis that extends in the conveying direction, and a crop material conveyor configured to supply crop material from the second auger to the second inlet generally transverse to the second auger axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2019
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventors: Herbert M. Farley, Cale N. Boriack, William M. McCully, Denver R. Yoder, Pieter Vandevelde, Clayton E. Banks, Jr., Eric E. Veikle
  • Patent number: 10212881
    Abstract: An improved self-propelled grain harvester and threshing machine characterized by the sieves, cleaning fan and grain tank being beneath the grain harvester's threshing system which puts the center of gravity in the bottom of the machine and eliminates the need for conveying the grain throughout the machine for cleaning and to the top of the machine for storage. This configuration eliminates several clean grain conveying systems and reduces the length of the reprocess tailings elevator giving the machine a safe low profile and center of gravity when the machine is empty and the center of gravity lowers as the grain tank fills.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2019
    Inventor: Steven Lee Norburg
  • Patent number: 10065691
    Abstract: A combine harvester comprising a pair of track units at a front of the harvester. The track units are suspended so that a frame of the units is pivotable about a centrally placed pivot axis, the axis dividing the track units between a front and rear portion. For each of the track units, the harvester comprises at least one variable length actuator mounted between the chassis of the harvester and the frame of the track unit, the actuator being mounted so that it is capable of actuating an upward or downward tilting of the front portion of the track unit. The actuator is operated to counteract an excessive downward or upward tilting of the front portion of the unit. The actuator may be operated by a control mechanism working on the basis of measurements performed by suitable sensor arrangements that monitor or predict the downward or upward tilting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2018
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventors: Bart M. A. Missotten, Koen Landuyt
  • Patent number: 9403536
    Abstract: A driver assistance system for a combine harvester includes an ALU configured to receive two or more desired areas of improvement from an operator, and to calculate at least one control action that will improve the two or more areas of improvement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2016
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Douglas J. Bollin, Hanke Bösch, Anja Eggerl
  • Patent number: 9332692
    Abstract: A device for coordinating a first vehicle with a transfer device and a second vehicle with a loading chamber that is filled by the transfer device includes a monitoring device for monitoring the transfer from the first vehicle to the second vehicle and a control unit. The control unit relies on the monitoring device to detect a position of an impact point of a load crop stream discharged from a transfer device of the first vehicle to the second vehicle and, in the event the detected position deviates from a target position, the control device sets the ground-speed differential to be different from zero until the detected position matches the target position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2016
    Assignee: CLAAS Selbstfahrende Erntemaschinen GmbH
    Inventors: Thilo Krause, Rene Middelberg
  • Publication number: 20150148112
    Abstract: A grain storage container in a combine harvester comprises a front panel, a rear panel, and a first side panel mounted fore and aft on a lower hinge assembly. The first side panel comprises a top edge and a lower edge that form a non-zero angle relative to each other. First and second foldable materials couple the first side panel to the front and rear panels. The first foldable material is attached to the front panel and the first side panel. The second foldable material is attached to the rear panel and the first side panel. The front and rear panels further comprise a respective first fixed portion coupled to a respective pivotal second portion. Each pivotal second portion is coupled to the respective fixed portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2014
    Publication date: May 28, 2015
    Inventor: Frederic Ducroquet
  • Patent number: 8978802
    Abstract: 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventor: Jonathan Eugene Ricketts
  • Patent number: 8981949
    Abstract: A harvester grain bin monitoring system is disclosed. The system includes a sensor that monitors the perimeter of the bin proximate to the top rim to provide a warning to an operator when the grain level reaches approaches the bin rim. The sensor may be optical or mechanical.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventors: Jonathan E. Ricketts, Brandon E. Ricketts, Wade L. Klennert
  • Patent number: 8944898
    Abstract: A grain bin located atop a harvester includes upstanding walls having a substantially continuous upper edge defining an opening. A grain bin extension is deployable between extended and retracted positions to expand the capacity of the grain bin. The extension includes extension panels and a cap overlaying the opening. The cap is supported by a cap frame that is also deployable between extended and retracted positions. An extension deployment apparatus raises and lowers the extension panels. Extension deployment mechanisms located at opposing corners of the grain bin control the deployment of adjacent extension panels. Each extension deployment mechanism has a first rack and a trunnion to drive extension panels in a vertical direction and pivot the panels in an outward direction and a second rack mounted to the trunnion to drive the cap frame in a vertical direction, and a drive gear between the first and second racks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: AGCO Corporation
    Inventors: Erik L. Barnes, Robert Figger
  • Publication number: 20140274237
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a combine harvester comprising a chassis; and a double-walled, plastic grain storage bin coupled to the chassis, the bin comprising an integrated support structure disposed on an interior surface of the bin that contacts crop material processed by the combine harvester.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: AGCO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Steven R. Tippery, Bryan S. Claerhout, Eric M. Reichenberger, Eric Richard Michels, Eric M. Biggs, Craig C. May
  • Patent number: 8821228
    Abstract: A dual bin combine system for combine harvesters which increases the storage capacity of harvested grain products when compared with previous systems. The dual bin combine system generally includes a combine harvester having a frame and a first tank for storing material harvested by the combine harvester. A frame extension, which extends in a rearward direction from the frame, includes a second tank. A transferring conduit extends from the first tank to the second tank. When operating the harvester, material may be fed from both tanks to reduce downtime unloading and thus more efficiently harvest crops.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Inventor: Anthony Duane Rene
  • Patent number: 8662972
    Abstract: A method for unloading crop stored in a grain tank of a self-propelled combine harvester into a drivable collecting container equipped with a drive unit includes positioning the collecting container relative to the combine harvester and moving the collecting container parallel thereto while the crop is fed to the collecting container directly or indirectly by way of a grain tank discharge pipe equipped with an outlet chute, simultaneously with the harvesting operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: CLAAS Selbstfahrende Erntemaschinen GmbH
    Inventors: Willi Behnke, Norbert Diekhans, Jochen Huster, Thilo Krause, Bastian Kriebel, Frank Claussen, Markus Brune
  • Publication number: 20130296005
    Abstract: A combine harvester includes a grain tank with an upper opening and a foldable attachment disposed on the upper opening. The attachment has two opposing, one-piece, flat attachment parts and two opposing, multiple-component, flat attachment parts. The attachment parts are swivellably disposed on the upper edge of the upper opening of the grain tank, are swivellably connected to one another and, in lying-flat, closed positions, form a cover. The cover at least partially closes the opening. In erected filling positions, the attachment parts increase the volume of the grain tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2013
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Applicant: CLAAS Selbstfahrende Erntemaschinen GmbH
    Inventors: Ulrich Claes, Thomas Roewekamp, Egbert Scholz, Georg Paulessen
  • Publication number: 20130252681
    Abstract: 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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2013
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Applicant: CNH America LLC
    Inventors: William Lee Cooksey, Orlin Wayne Johnson, Tulugu Venugopala Rao
  • Publication number: 20130196724
    Abstract: A grain bin located atop a harvester includes upstanding walls having a substantially continuous upper edge defining an opening. A grain bin extension is deployable between extended and refracted positions to expand the capacity of the grain bin. The extension includes extension panels and a cap overlaying the opening. The cap is supported by a cap frame that is also deployable between extended and refracted positions. An extension deployment apparatus raises and lowers the extension panels. Extension deployment mechanisms located at opposing corners of the grain bin control the deployment of adjacent extension panels. Each extension deployment mechanism has a first rack and a trunion to drive extension panels in a vertical direction and pivot the panels in an outward direction and a second rack mounted to the trunion to drive the cap frame in a vertical direction, and a dive gear between the first and second racks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2012
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: AGCO CORPORATION
    Inventor: AGCO Corporation
  • Publication number: 20130196725
    Abstract: A cover for the grain tank of a combine harvester is disclosed that, when raised, is capable of acting as a tank extension to increase the storage capacity of the grain tank. The cover comprises side panels (10, 12) and end panels (14, 16) of which the edges interlock when the cover is raised. In the invention, each of the side and end panels (10, 12, 14, 16) is formed of a plurality of hollow extrusions (50). Each extrusion is of box section construction with parallel inner and outer walls (52, 54) separated from one another by two or more transversely extending webs (56, 57, 58). Formations (60, 62) on the side edges of the extrusions (50) permit each pair of adjacent extrusions to be interlocked with one another along their length.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2011
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Inventors: Johnny Bossuyt, Pieter J.P. Willem
  • Patent number: 8348001
    Abstract: An agricultural harvesting machine, in particular a self-propelled forage harvester, has a body which includes frame parts and parts of the outer shell, a chassis having at least two drive axles which form the ground drive, and various working units and drive units, and the harvesting machine is separatable into at least one front module and one rear module which are displaceable relative to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: CLAAS Selbstfahrende Erntemaschinen GmbH
    Inventor: Heinrich Isfort
  • Patent number: 8146974
    Abstract: An expandable grain tank is provided for covering the open end of a grain tank of an agricultural combine. The expandable tank includes a tarp and a support structure for raising and lowering the tarp. The support structure is configured with an upper frame, a plurality of expandable legs connected to the upper frame and the grain tank, and an actuator to expand and retract the expandable legs. The expandable tank is configured to be moved between a retracted position and an expanded position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: CNH America LLC
    Inventor: Andrew Horst
  • Patent number: 8147176
    Abstract: An agricultural work machine includes a hopper configured to store an agricultural product during harvesting operations, and an unloading system configured to receive the agricultural product from the hopper and to unload the agricultural product from the work machine. The unloading system includes a turret rotatably attached to a portion of the work machine; a base conveyor belt system configured to convey the agricultural product away from the turret; a base support structure pivotably coupled to the turret, the base support structure being configured to support at least in part the base conveyor belt system; and a shock absorption system configured to absorb a shock load transmitted between the base support structure and the turret.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Bruce A. Coers, Daniel J. Burke, Ryan P. Mackin
  • Patent number: 8126620
    Abstract: A grain transfer control system, and method of use thereof, for automatedly controlling the transfer of grain from a mobile transferor-type vehicle, such as a combine harvester, to a mobile transferee-type vehicle, such as a crop transport, by varying the position and speed of the transferor-type and transferee-type vehicles relative to one another during the transfer operation, especially by varying the position and rate of walk of the discharge spout along at least a portion of the length of a grain holding receptacle of the transferee-type vehicle, to effect a generally even fill of the grain holding receptacle of the transferee-type vehicle along the length of the grain holding receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Assignee: CNH America LLC
    Inventors: Justin R. Ringwald, Christopher A. Foster
  • Patent number: 8038518
    Abstract: An agricultural combine includes a supporting structure. A work assembly is coupled to the supporting structure. The work assembly has a plurality of components to assist in the performing of crop processing operations. The work assembly is configured to define an air stream path. The work assembly has at least one rotary component that generates an air stream that flows through the air stream path to aid in crop processing in the work assembly. A fluid system is configured to circulate a fluid. The fluid system includes a fluid cooler that is positioned at a location in the air stream path to provide cooling of the fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Paul D. Marvin, Jeffrey A. Turigliatti, James K. Adamson, Todd E. Van Hal, Johann H. Pierce, Peter E. Kenyon
  • Patent number: 8033088
    Abstract: A combine harvester for separating grain from trash is attached to a towable baling apparatus for converting trash into compacted bales, by a conveyor, a forward end of the conveyor being pivotally attached to the combine harvester proximate the rear such that a trash outlet of the combine is disposed above the trash inlet of the conveyor. The rear end of the conveyor is attached to the baling apparatus in a way that causes a large percentage of the trash from the combine harvester trash outlet to enter the baling apparatus inlet without ever touching the ground. The conveyor is supported from the rear of the combine harvester by a towbar which is fixed to the chassis proximate the support for the forward and rearward set of ground wheels. A nozzle is provided to spray water onto the crop before it enters the baler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: Glenvar Enterprises Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Graham Michael Shields
  • Patent number: 8029346
    Abstract: A combine (10) includes a support frame (12) that can be moved across a field in a forward operating direction and a grain tank (42) fastened to it. The grain tank (42) is provided with side walls (58) that can be moved by means of an adjusting drive (68) between a retracted position for operation on public roads and for the storage of the combine (10) and an extended position for the harvesting operation. Each side wall (58) is connected in the upward direction with a cover (84) that is a component of a ring-shaped grain tank extension. The grain tank extension can be moved between an extended position in which it forms a ring that enlarges the grain tank (42) in the upward direction, and a retracted position, in which it encloses the grain tank (42) in the upward direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventor: Heinz Sprau
  • Patent number: 8008800
    Abstract: An agricultural vehicle including a plurality of engines, a plurality of loads, a plurality of electrical generators, at least one load sensor, at least one electrical energy storage device, and a controller. The plurality of engines include a first engine and a second engine. The plurality of loads include a first mechanical load, a second mechanical load, a first electrical load, and a second electrical load. The first mechanical load is coupled to the first engine and the second mechanical load is coupled to the second engine. The plurality of electrical generator include a first generator and a second generator. The first generator is coupled to the first engine and the second generator is coupled to the second engine. The first generator is electrically coupled to the first electrical load and the second generator is electrically coupled to the second electrical load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Ryan P. Mackin, Alan D. Sheidler
  • Patent number: 7981175
    Abstract: A self-cleaning blow-off for a rotary air screen, includes a blow-off channel including an inlet disposed for receiving a flow of air from a pressurized air source, and a movable blow-off channel section configured and supported to be movable between an operational position disposed adjacent to a portion of the air screen for directing the flow of air for blowing debris and dirt from the screen, and a cleaning position disposed away from the screen such that accumulated debris and dirt in the blow-off section will be released. And, an actuator is connected to and controllably operable for moving the movable blow-off section between the operating position and the cleaning position. The actuator can be controlled to move the movable blow-off section to the cleaning position periodically, as desired, or responsive to an input.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: CNH America LLC
    Inventor: David S. D'hondt
  • Patent number: 7927201
    Abstract: An improved agricultural vehicle is provided utilizing an upper storage container, movable laterally relative to a lower storage container. The dual storage containers allows for ease of loading and unloading a combine with multiple types of agricultural materials, such as stover and corn kernels. The invention also allows grain wagons to carry two separate types of agricultural material, such as stover and corn kernels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Assignee: Cobco Manufacturing
    Inventors: Ty E. Stukenholtz, Jay E. Stukenholtz
  • Patent number: 7918720
    Abstract: To increase the capacity of an extension attachment for a bulk material container comprising a frame (32) and a plurality of flaps (33, 34) linked to the frame (32), which are capable of swivelling and, in a swivelled-out position, surround an internal space (31) of the extension attachment, the internal surface (28) facing the internal space (31) of at least of one of the flaps (33) has a concave shape in the swivelled-out position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Inventors: Jan-Hendrik Mohr, Ulrich Claes, Christopher Vieregge
  • Patent number: 7877181
    Abstract: An apparatus for indicating a grain tank fill level for a grain tank (20) of an agricultural harvester (10), the harvester (10) having a chassis (12), an operator cabin (18) on the chassis (12); a threshing, separating, and cleaning means (24) on the chassis (12) for processing crop, a grain tank (20) on the chassis (18) for storing harvested grain and having an actual fill level of grain, a display (48) disposed in front of the operator in the direction of travel for displaying a fill level of the grain tank; a calculating means (46) coupled to the display (48) for calculating a fill level of the grain tank to be displayed on the display (48), and an operator input device (70) coupled to the calculating means (46) for selecting between first and second modes of operation, wherein the calculating means (46) is configured to repetitively and automatically calculate the fill level of the grain tank (20) in a first mode of operation and configured to repetitively and automatically indicate a scaled fill level th
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Kirk Jacob Chervenka, Barton Jay Stevens, Joshua Dale Wood, Tyler David Schleicher
  • Patent number: 7836673
    Abstract: An on-board rectangular cotton module builder and transporter and method of operation of the same, wherein the module builder includes a cotton accumulating cavity for receiving harvested cotton, apparatus for distributing and compacting cotton in a module building chamber having a door through which a cotton module is unloaded from the chamber onto the transporter, and apparatus deployable for holding cotton in the accumulating cavity for conveyance and distribution into the module building chamber away from the door when open. As a result, a cotton module is movable from the module building to the transporter on-the-go while harvesting, and while cotton is conveyed and distributed in the module building chamber. The transporter is operable for carrying the module while continuing harvesting and for unloading the module when desired, including in sequence with a second module from the module builder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Assignee: CNH America LLC
    Inventor: Michael J. Digman
  • Patent number: 7833091
    Abstract: A combine harvester has at least one cleaning device which includes at least one sieve and one cleaning fan, at least one conveyor device for conveying at least a portion of the crop material that exits the cleaning device into a higher region of the combine harvester and including at least one elevator having a lower intake region and an upper transfer region, the crop material being conveyed in the elevator via conveyor plates which are situated on a circulating chain, and the elevator includes, in its lower region, at least two interspaced deflection axles for the circulating chain, which are oriented transversely to the longitudinal extension of the combine harvester.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: CLAAS Selbstfahrende Erntemaschinen GmbH
    Inventors: Bernd Holtmann, Stefan Teroerde, Winfried Wesselmann, Ingo Boenig, Christopher Vieregge, Daniel Brueggemann, Hubert Korte, Ulrich Claes, Waldemar Schulz
  • Publication number: 20100285855
    Abstract: An apparatus for indicating a grain tank fill level for a grain tank (20) of an agricultural harvester (10), the harvester (10) having a chassis (12), an operator cabin (18) on the chassis (12); a threshing, separating, and cleaning means (24) on the chassis (12) for processing crop, a grain tank (20) on the chassis (18) for storing harvested grain and having an actual fill level of grain, a display (48) disposed in front of the operator in the direction of travel for displaying a fill level of the grain tank; a calculating means (46) coupled to the display (48) for calculating a fill level of the grain tank to be displayed on the display (48), and an operator input device (70) coupled to the calculating means (46) for selecting between first and second modes of operation, wherein the calculating means (46) is configured to repetitively and automatically calculate the fill level of the grain tank (20) in a first mode of operation and configured to repetitively and automatically indicate a scaled fill level th
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2009
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Inventors: Kirk Jacob Chervenka, Barton Jay Stevens, Joshua Dale Wood, Tyle David Schieicher
  • Publication number: 20100285854
    Abstract: 1. A covered grain tank (12) used on a harvesting vehicle (10), the grain tank (12) includes a grain tank (12) having a first receptive portion (18) fixed to a top edge of the grain tank, the first receptive portion (18) having a downwardly facing opening, a first cover portion (100, 102, 104, or 106) having a first extended portion (24), and a first hinge (120) connecting the first cover portion (100, 102, 104, or 106) to the grain tank (12), the first extended portion (24) being positioned in the first receptive portion (18) when the first cover portion (100, 102, 104, or 106) is in a closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2009
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Inventors: Douglas Gene Temple, Merle Ray Gerber, Ronald Wade Nelson
  • Publication number: 20100043369
    Abstract: An agricultural work machine having a chassis with an operating direction and a transport system coupled to the chassis. The transport system includes a plurality of wheels including a first wheel and a wheel repositioning system. The wheel repositioning system is operatively connected to the first wheel. The wheel repositioning system is configured to adjust a position of the first wheel in a direction substantially normal to the operating direction while the chassis is moving in the operating direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2008
    Publication date: February 25, 2010
    Inventors: Bruce A. Coers, Daniel J. Burke, Ryan P. Mackin
  • Patent number: 7645109
    Abstract: An agricultural vehicle such as a combine is provided with a collapsible agricultural material storage bin. The bin may be collapsed to allow for decreased overall vertical height during transport to avoid contact with obstacles, such as overhead power lines and street lights. In the field, the agricultural material storage container may be expanded to increase the agricultural material holding capacity of the vehicle. The bin may be provided with an internal extension mechanism to increase the lifting power of the container to allow for the placement of a second container or other material thereabove. Alternatively, the container may be provided with an external lifting means to allow for unobstructed evacuation of the interior of the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Assignee: Cobco Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Ty E. Stukenholtz, Jay E. Stukenholtz
  • Publication number: 20090312079
    Abstract: A rotating radiator screen has a series of fins surrounding the peripheral edge of the screen at its interface with a wall surface of the machine on which the screen is mounted. An annular baffle on the wall surface circumscribes the fins and cooperates with them in producing positive pressure and an axially outwardly moving curtain of air in the vicinity of the interface so as to oppose the ingress of ambient air and foreign materials at that location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2008
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Applicant: AGCO CORPORATION
    Inventor: Grant L. Good
  • Publication number: 20090270148
    Abstract: An agricultural combine includes a supporting structure. A work assembly is coupled to the supporting structure. The work assembly has a plurality of components to assist in the performing of crop processing operations. The work assembly is configured to define an air stream path. The work assembly has at least one rotary component that generates an air stream that flows through the air stream path to aid in crop processing in the work assembly. A fluid system is configured to circulate a fluid. The fluid system includes a fluid cooler that is positioned at a location in the air stream path to provide cooling of the fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventors: Paul D. Marvin, Jeffrey A. Turigliatti, James K. Adamson, Todd E. Van Hal, Johann H. Pierce, Peter E. Kenyon
  • Publication number: 20090270149
    Abstract: A combine (10) includes a support frame (12) that can be moved across a field in a forward operating direction and a grain tank (42) fastened to it. The grain tank (42) is provided with side walls (58) that can be moved by means of an adjusting drive (68) between a retracted position for operation on public roads and for the storage of the combine (12) and an extended position for the harvesting operation. Each side wall (58) is connected in the upward direction with a cover (84) that is a component of a ring-shaped grain tank extension. The grain tank extension can be moved between an extended position in which it forms a ring that enlarges the grain tank (42) in the upward direction, and a retracted position, in which it encloses the grain tank (42) in the upward direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2009
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventor: Heinz Sprau
  • Publication number: 20090233664
    Abstract: An agricultural harvester includes a primary power unit which is couplable with at least one primary load. The at least one primary load includes a threshing system load. An auxiliary power unit is mechanically independent from the primary power unit, and is couplable with at least one biomass processor, independent from the threshing system load.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2008
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Inventors: Alan Sheidler, Benjamin E. Ramp
  • Patent number: 7585214
    Abstract: An automatedly foldable and unfoldable grain tank extension construction for increasing the grain holding capacity of a grain tank of an agricultural harvesting machine, such extension construction including a plurality of extension panels mounted for pivotal movement about corresponding, respective, upper peripheral portions of the grain tank, with pliable corner pieces extending between adjacent extension panels to seal the corner spaces between the adjacent extension panels, especially when the extension construction is deployed or unfolded, wherein the pivotal movements of the extension panels are controllable by operation of a linkage system that automatedly effects the folding and unfolding of the extension construction by effecting movement of each extension panel through an angle greater than 90°, with at least the control actuator of the linkage system being located external to the grain tank so as to be generally accessible for servicing even when the grain tank is filled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Assignee: CNH America LLC
    Inventors: Orlin W. Johnson, William L. Cooksey, Jason R. Coppinger, Tulugu Venugopala Rao, Steven M. Wardlow
  • Patent number: 7553228
    Abstract: A combination of a powered combine carrying a combine grain bin for housing harvested grain and a towed grain cart carrying a grain cart bin for housing harvested grain includes harvested grain transfer between the combine grain bin and the grain cart bin and improved off-loading of harvested grain from the combination. A generally horizontally disposed first grain movement assembly is pivotally connected to a second grain movement assembly, which in turn is pivotally connected to a vertically disposed grain movement assembly in the grain cart, such that the rear end of the second grain movement assembly moves in all horizontal directions, but not in the vertical direction. The first grain movement assembly has an arcuate trolley ahead of the pivoted joint with the second grain movement assembly. An off-loading grain movement assembly is disposed for off-loading grain only from the combine grain bin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2009
    Inventor: Ben N. Dillon
  • Patent number: 7544128
    Abstract: A discharge spout is connecting a first end to a discharge tube in a forage harvester to discharge the processed crop from a mouth at a second end into a vehicle driven in use alongside the harvester. The spout has an inspection opening near its first end, a door covering and closing off the inspection opening, and at least one wear plate separate from the door and secured to the inner surface of the door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Assignee: CNH America LLC
    Inventors: Sandor W. Van Vooren, Nick R. M. Vanderstraeten, Bernard E. D. Depestel
  • Patent number: 7472481
    Abstract: A cotton picker basket is disclosed that includes a first basket portion and a second basket portion, the first basket portion configured to move relative to the second basket portion to adjust a volume contained therein and an compactor disposed at least in part within one of the first basket portion and the second basket portion. The cotton picker basket also includes an actuator configured to adjust a position of the compactor within one of the first basket portion and the second basket portion and to move the first basket portion relative to the second basket portion to adjust the volume contained therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Assignee: CNH America LLC
    Inventors: John Bradley Lukac, Gary A. Zinser, Jr., Jesse H. Orsborn