Abstract: Sensing structure including a microwave sensor monitors the velocity, mass flow and moisture of cotton in a harvester air duct. As the flow of cotton in the air duct nears maximum capacity, the cotton velocity will decrease and the sensor provides a signal to the controller so that harvester speed will be reduced. Cotton mass and moisture level signals are used to determine the percentage capacity and anticipate loading of the cotton cleaner or other crop processor. The signals can also be used to control cross auger and impeller speed to even out the flow of cotton within the air duct system in highly variable yield conditions in the field.

Abstract: A hybrid utility vehicle includes a tool-supporting frame and an electrical power source driven by an engine. Right and left rear wheels independently driven by permanent magnet electric motors and front wheels electrically steerable over a range of approximately 180 degrees operate under the control of a vehicle controller responsive to steering and speed input controls to provide zero turn radius operation with minimum slippage and tire scuffing. Space efficiency provided by the electric steering and an electrically driven tool deck facilitate a variety of tool mounting configurations including a rear discharge deck with a chute passing under the vehicle frame between the driven wheels. An inverter connected to the electrical power source provides 110/220 volt output. The power source also functions as a high powered, high rpm, low noise starter motor.

Abstract: A differential pressure sensor measures the vacuum in a material conveying duct relative to atmospheric pressure or to a positive pressure farther upstream in the duct on an agricultural harvester. The output from this sensor is monitored electronically, and the resulting output is used to optimize harvester speed. In one embodiment, a processor monitor output is used in conjunction with the pressure sensor output to control ground speed. Processor speed or loading and air duct pressure are monitored to determine which area of the machine is the limiting factor and to adjust the harvester speed accordingly.

Abstract: A hybrid utility vehicle includes a tool-supporting frame and an electrical power source driven by an engine. Right and left rear wheels independently driven by permanent magnet electric motors and front wheels electrically steerable over a range of approximately 180 degrees operate under the control of a vehicle controller responsive to steering and speed input controls to provide zero turn radius operation with minimum slippage and tire scuffing. Space efficiency provided by the electric steering and an electrically driven tool deck facilitate a variety of tool mounting configurations including a rear discharge deck with a chute passing under the vehicle frame between the driven wheels. An inverter connected to the electrical power source provides 110/220 volt output. The power source also functions as a high powered, high rpm, low noise starter motor.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a transmission control device which receives steering inputs and speed inputs, and produces an input for a steer transmission and an input for a drive transmission in order to control the direction and speed of a vehicle. The transmission control device coordinates the steering inputs with the speed inputs. The present invention also relates to a steering assembly which, in one embodiment, includes an elongated force transmitter operatively coupled to a steering device. The force transmitter, which is operatively coupled to a plurality of front wheels, has a fore-aft path of movement for pivoting the front wheels clockwise or counterclockwise. The present invention enhances the user's control and maneuverability of vehicles.