Abstract: Disclosed is a sensor for detecting the presence of a crop flow in a harvesting machine. The sensor is designed to emit an output signal containing information on whether crop material is passing through the harvesting machine or not. It is suggested that the sensor be designed to detect vibrations produced during the processing and/or transporting of the crop flow in the harvesting machine. Such a sensor is especially suitable for use with arrangements for calculating the area from which crop is being harvested and for mapping yields.

Abstract: These and other objects are attained by providing an improved harvester header side shield and latch mechanism consisting of a shield vertically pivotable upwardly and rearwardly about a horizontal hinge located on the upper rear portion of the header. The shield is lockable in the operational position and automatically engages a latch mechanism in the raised position that is manually released by the operator for lowering. Guides are provided on the inner side sheet of the header to assure that the shield moves into, and stays, in the proper location during operation.