Abstract: A picking unit for a cotton harvester includes a first rotating picking drum having a first plurality of rotating picker spindles, a first pressure plate mounted on a first hinge and configured to pivot with respect to the first rotating picking drum, a first plurality of torsion springs configured to apply a biasing force on the first pressure plate. Each spring of the first plurality of torsion springs includes a first end connected to the first hinge and a second end in contact with the first pressure plate, and an actuator configured to vary the biasing force applied by the first plurality of torsion springs by rotating the first hinge.

Abstract: Roll assemblies for cotton harvesters and associated methods are disclosed. Example roll assemblies may include a unitary component that defines a plurality of slots. Bats and brushes may be removably retained within the slots. The unitary component may include a plurality of lobes with the plurality of slots defined therebetween. A central passage may be formed in a central portion of the unitary component. A shaft having an interlocking shape may be removably received within the central passage. In some implementations, one or more lobes are removably securable to the unitary component. End caps may be received onto the shaft and positioned adjacent to ends of the unitary component to assist in retaining the bats and brushes to the unitary component.

Abstract: Roll assemblies for cotton harvesters and associated methods are disclosed. Example roll assemblies may include a unitary component that defines a plurality of slots. Bats and brushes may be removably retained within the slots. The unitary component may include a plurality of lobes with the plurality of slots defined therebetween. A central passage may be formed in a central portion of the unitary component. A shaft having an interlocking shape may be removably received within the central passage. In some implementations, one or more lobes are removably securable to the unitary component. End caps may be received onto the shaft and positioned adjacent to ends of the unitary component to assist in retaining the bats and brushes to the unitary component.