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: A lubrication system is provided for lubricating a plurality of picker units connected to an agricultural machine. Each of the plurality of picker units includes a cam track assembly, an idler gear assembly, a drum and drive gear assembly, and a drum assembly. The lubrication system includes a supply of lubricant and a pump fluidly coupled to the supply. A primary distributor is fluidly coupled to the pump and includes a plurality of outlets fluidly coupled to each of the plurality of picker units. A plurality of secondary distributors is each fluidly coupled to one of the plurality of outlets of the primary distributor. Each of the plurality of second distributors is fluidly coupled to one of the plurality of picker units. The primary distributor is configured to distribute an equal amount of lubricant in a given cycle to each of the plurality of secondary distributors.

Abstract: A round module builder for forming a round bale of cotton is disclosed. The round module builder is configured to receive compressed cotton and form a round bale of cotton. At least one moisture sensor is coupleable to the round module builder. The moisture sensor is configured to measure an indication of a moisture level of the cotton.