Articulated auger for a harvesting header

Abstract

An articulated auger for a harvesting header that includes a main frame assembly including a centre frame section, a first lateral frame section extending outwardly from one side of the centre frame section, a second lateral frame section extending outwardly from the other side of the centre frame section and wherein the first lateral frame section is attached to the central frame section to allow the first lateral frame section and the central frame section to pivot relative to each other about a first pivot axis and the second lateral frame section is attached to the central frame section to allow the second lateral frame section and the central frame section to pivot relative to each other about a second pivot axis, the articulated auger comprising: (a) a central auger section; (b) a first lateral auger section including a first bearing member, defining a first outer end, the first lateral auger section being mounted to the main frame assembly via a first lateral auger mount that allows for relative lateral movement between the first outer end and the first lateral auger mount; (c) a second lateral auger section defining a second outer end and being mounted to the main frame assembly via a second lateral auger mount; (d) a first universal joint, between the first lateral auger section and the central auger section, located outward from the first pivot axis; (e) a second universal joint, between the second lateral section and the central section, located outward from the second pivot axis; (f) a pivotable auger mount assembly for attaching the central auger section to the first lateral frame section of the main frame assembly, wherein the pivotable auger mount assembly is adapted to pivot around a third pivot axis located outward from the first pivot axis; and (g) a further auger mount assembly for attaching the central auger section to the second lateral frame section of the main frame assembly.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to an articulated auger for a harvesting header. BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION Harvesting headers cut and collect a crop and are generally attached to the front end of harvester or some other machinery capable of moving the harvesting header. To account for crops with different physical properties there is generally a degree of flexibility in terms of the configuration of harvesting headers. This flexibility allows for adjustments to be made to facilitate continuous flow of the cut crop and reduce or avoid lumping of the crop in the harvesting header. Rather than have a fixed, single part header, to account for varying ground conditions harvesting headers have been designed to include multiple sections that are adapted to pivot relative to each other. This allows for a harvesting header to adjust for changes in ground height as it passes over a crop during harvesting because different sections of the harvesting header have a degree of independent movement and thus can adapt to fluctuating ground conditions. Augers are a component used in harvesting headers to assist with the transfer of cut crop in a header. Generally, augers are screw conveyors that are used to transfer cut crop drawn into the header by a reel or similar component towards a predetermined (usually central) point where the cut crop is collected and transferred to a receptacle in the harvester. Augers are particularly useful for transferring cut crop that is located towards the rear wall of the harvesting header and would otherwise become stuck in this location potentially resulting in blockages and forced downtime during harvesting. When a harvesting header comprises multiple sections capable of different configurations there are additional problems to address when developing an auger that is able to function optimally regardless of the configuration of the multiple sections. The present invention seeks to provide an auger for a harvesting header that addresses problems withs existing augers or at least provide an alternative solution to the existing augers. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention provides an articulated auger for a harvesting header that includes a main frame assembly including a centre frame section, a first lateral frame section extending outwardly from one side of the centre frame section, a second lateral frame section extending outwardly from the other side of the centre frame section and wherein the first lateral frame section is attached to the central frame section to allow them to pivot relative to each other about a first pivot axis and the second lateral frame section is attached to the central frame section to allow them to pivot relative to each other about a second pivot axis, the articulated auger comprising: (a) a central auger section; (b) a first lateral auger section including a first bearing member, defining a first outer end, the first lateral auger section being mounted to the main frame assembly via a first lateral auger mount that allows for relative lateral movement between the first outer end and the first lateral auger mount; (c) a second lateral auger section defining a second outer end and being mounted to the main frame assembly via a second lateral auger mount; (d) a first universal joint, between the first lateral auger section and the central auger section, located outward from the first pivot axis; (e) a second universal joint, between the second lateral section and the central section, located outward from the second pivot axis; (f) a pivotable auger mount assembly for attaching the central auger section to the first lateral frame section of the main frame assembly, wherein the pivotable auger mount assembly is adapted to pivot around a third pivot axis located outward from the first pivot axis; and (g) a further auger mount assembly for attaching the central auger section to the second lateral frame section of the main frame assembly. It is to be recognised that other aspects, preferred forms and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the specification including the detailed description, examples, drawings and claims provided below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS In order to facilitate a better understanding of the present invention, a preferred embodiment is described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figures 1A-1C respectively depict, a front view, a top view and a perspective view from above, of an articulated auger according to one embodiment of the present invention fitted to a harvesting header that is configured such that the lower surfaces of its frame sections are essentially aligned; Figures 2A-2C respectively depict, a front view, a top view and a perspective view from above, of the articulated auger from Figures 1A-1C fitted to a harvesting header that is configured such that the lower surface of both lateral frame sections are inclined relative to the central frame section; Figures 3A-3C respectively depict, a front view, a top view and a perspective view from above, of the articulated auger from Figures 1A-1C fitted to a harvesting header that is configured such that the lower surface of both lateral frame sections are declined relative to the central frame section; Figure 4A is a detailed perspective view (from the front and above) of the end section of the right hand side (from a driver’s perspective) of the articulated auger in Figures 1A-1C to show the detail of the first lateral auger mount; Figure 4B is a detailed perspective view (from the front and above) of the articulated auger in Figures 1A-1C to show the detail of the pivotable auger mount assembly; Figure 4C is an exploded view of the pivotable auger mount assembly of Figure 4B to show the components in more detail; Figure 5A is a detailed perspective view (from the front and above) of the end section of the left hand side (from a driver’s perspective) of the articulated auger in Figures 1A-1C to show the detail of the second lateral auger mount; Figure 5B is a detailed perspective view (from the front and above) of the articulated auger in Figures 1A-1C to show the detail of the further auger mount assembly; Figure 5C is an exploded view of the further auger mount assembly of Figure 5B to show the components in more detail; Figure 6 is a schematic illustration of the articulated auger in the earlier figures in use; and Figures 7A to 7I illustrate the articulated auger in the earlier figures in various configurations when in use. Each of Figures 7A to 7I depicts a top view and a front view of the articulated auger according to an embodiment of the first aspect of the invention fitted to a harvesting header with three sections. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION In accordance with one aspect, the present invention provides an articulated auger for a harvesting header that includes a main frame assembly including a centre frame section, a first lateral frame section extending outwardly from one side of the centre frame section, a second lateral frame section extending outwardly from the other side of the centre frame section and wherein the first lateral frame section is attached to the central frame section to allow the first lateral frame section and the central frame section to pivot relative to each other about a first pivot axis and the second lateral frame section is attached to the central frame section to allow the second lateral frame section and the central frame section to pivot relative to each other about a second pivot axis, the articulated auger comprising: (a) a central auger section; (b) a first lateral auger section including a first bearing member, defining a first outer end, the first lateral auger section being mounted to the main frame assembly via a first lateral auger mount that allows for relative lateral movement between the first outer end and the first lateral auger mount; (c) a second lateral auger section defining a second outer end and being mounted to the main frame assembly via a second lateral auger mount; (d) a first universal joint, between the first lateral auger section and the central auger section, located outward from the first pivot axis; (e) a second universal joint, between the second lateral section and the central section, located outward from the second pivot axis; (f) a pivotable auger mount assembly for attaching the central auger section to the first lateral frame section of the main frame assembly, wherein the pivotable auger mount assembly is adapted to pivot around a third pivot axis located outward from the first pivot axis; and (g) a further auger mount assembly for attaching the central auger section to the second lateral frame section of the main frame assembly. For the purposes of the present invention the term “universal joint” is defined as a joint or coupling adapted to connect two auger sections wherein rotary motion can be transmitted between auger sections when the longitudinal axis of one of the two auger sections is not-aligned with the longitudinal axis of the other auger section. Preferably, the universal joint allows for the relative axial positions of the auger sections to vary. Preferably, the universal joint allows for free movement of the relative axial positions of the auger sections. Preferably, the first lateral auger section includes a first shaft portion and a first flight portion supported on said first shaft portion. Preferably, the first shaft portion is hollow. Preferably, the first bearing member is adapted to engage with a compatible bearing member that forms part of the first lateral auger mount. Preferably, the first bearing member comprises a male bearing member. Preferably, the male bearing member comprises a bearing neck or bearing shaft. When the first bearing member comprises a male bearing member, the compatible bearing member may comprise a female bearing member such as a slide bearing. The first bearing member may comprise a female bearing member. Preferably, the female bearing member comprises a hollow shaft or bore in the first lateral auger section. When the first bearing member comprises a female bearing member, the compatible bearing member may comprise a male bearing member such as a bearing neck or bearing shaft. Preferably, the first lateral auger mount is fixedly mounted to the main frame assembly. Preferably, the first lateral auger mount is mounted to the first lateral frame section. Preferably, the first lateral auger mount comprises a first bracket. Preferably, the first bracket includes a supporting element such as a brace. Preferably, the second lateral auger section includes a second shaft portion and a second flight portion supported on said second shaft portion. Preferably, the second shaft portion is hollow. Preferably, the second lateral auger section includes a second bearing member adapted to engage with a second compatible bearing member that forms part of the second lateral auger mount. Preferably, the second bearing member comprises a male bearing member. Preferably, the male bearing member comprises a bearing neck or bearing shaft. When the second bearing member comprises a male bearing member, the second compatible bearing member may comprise a female bearing member. The second bearing member may comprise a female bearing member such as a hollow shaft or bore in the second lateral auger section. When the second bearing member comprises a female bearing member, the second compatible bearing member may comprise a bearing neck or bearing shaft. Preferably, the second lateral auger mount does not allow for relative lateral movement between the second outer end of the second lateral auger section and the second lateral auger mount. In this regard, the second bearing member and the second compatible bearing member may be engaged such that they only allow rotational movement. Alternatively, the second lateral auger mount may allow for relative lateral movement between the second outer end and the second lateral auger mount. When the second lateral auger mount allows for relative lateral movement it may comprise one or more of the features described herein in relation to the first lateral auger section such as the first bearing member that allow for this relative lateral movement including the use of slide bearings, bearing necks or equivalent components. Preferably, the second lateral auger mount is fixedly mounted to the main frame assembly. Preferably, the second lateral auger mount is mounted to the second lateral frame section. Preferably, the second lateral auger mount comprises a second bracket. Preferably, the second bracket includes a supporting element such as a brace. Preferably, the central auger section includes a third shaft portion and a third flight portion supported on said third shaft portion. Preferably, the central auger section includes a fourth flight portion supported on said third shaft portion. Preferably, the third shaft portion is hollow. Preferably, a first end of the central auger section extends to a point outward of the first pivot axis or a second end of the central auger section extends to a point outward of the second pivot axis. Preferably, the first end of the central auger section extends to a point outward of the first pivot axis and the second end of the central auger extends to a point outward of the second pivot axis. Preferably, the pivotable auger mount assembly is attached to the central auger section at a point located outward from the first pivot axis. Preferably, the third pivot axis defines an angle of intersection with the main longitudinal axis of the first lateral frame section of 75°-105°. Even more preferably the angle of intersection is 80°-100°, 85°-95°, 88°-92° or 90°. The third pivot axis may define an angle of intersection with the first pivot axis of 0°-90°, 50°-90°, 55°-85° and 62°-82°. Preferably, the third pivot axis defines an angle of intersection with the first pivot axis of 62° or 82°. This angle may be varied to manage movement of the articulated auger relative to other parts of the harvesting header such as the reel, rear wall or floor portion of the harvesting header. An angle of intersection approaching 0° in combination with pivoting or swiveling of the pivotable auger mount assembly allows a more constant distance between the articulated auger and the reel or rear wall. Alternatively, an angle of intersection approaching 90° in combination with pivoting or swiveling of the pivotable auger mount assembly allows a more constant distance between the articulated auger and the floor portion of the harvesting header. Preferably, the pivotable auger mount assembly is adapted to pivot around the third pivot axis in a clockwise and an anti-clockwise direction. Preferably, the pivotable auger mount assembly is adapted to pivot around the third pivot axis through at least about 40°-80°, 45°-75°, 50°-70°, 55°-60° or about 46° or 60°. Preferably, the pivotable auger mount assembly comprises a pivot member through which the third pivot axis extends. Preferably, the pivot member is a pin or a shaft member. Preferably, the pivotable auger mount assembly includes a first base bracket that attaches to the first lateral frame section. Preferably, the pivot member is supported from the first base bracket. Preferably, the pivotable auger mount assembly includes a first pivot bracket rotatably mounted on the pivot member. Preferably, the pivotable auger mount assembly includes a first adjusting member for adjusting the distance between the articulated auger and the central frame section. Preferably, the first adjusting member is attached to the central auger section. Preferably, the first adjusting member comprises an elongate member or arm. Preferably, the first adjusting member is length adjustable. Preferably, the first adjusting member is telescopic. Preferably, the first adjusting member is operable via a drive means such as an electric motor. Preferably, the first adjusting member is adapted for movement to define a range of angles between a main longitudinal axis of the first adjusting member and a main longitudinal axis of the central auger section. Preferably said range of angles is 50°-90°, 60°-90° or about 65°-68°. This movement allows for misalignment between the first adjusting member and the central auger section. Preferably, this misalignment is + / - 25° i.e., when the angle between these features in the neutral or default position is 90°, the range of angles is 65°-115°. Even more preferably, the first adjusting member comprises a third bearing member to enable said movement to account for misalignment. Preferably, the third bearing member is adapted to swivel. Even more preferably, the third bearing member comprises a spherical bearing member, a spherical bearing, spherical O.D. bearing, spherical plain bearing or a spherical roller bearing. The main purpose of said bearings is to allow misalignment between shafts and their mounting members. The pivotable auger mount assembly may further comprise a second adjusting member for adjusting the distance between the articulated auger and a rear wall of the harvesting header that extends down from the central frame assembly. Preferably, the second adjusting member is a second pivot bracket that allows for the angle of the longitudinal axis of the first adjusting member to be adjusted relative to the third pivot axis. Preferably, the second adjusting member is operable via a drive means such as an electric motor. Preferably the second adjusting member includes a locking means for releasably fixing the first adjusting member in place after it has been adjusted. Preferably, the further auger mount assembly is attached to the central auger section at a point located outward from the second pivot axis. Preferably, the further auger mount assembly includes a second base bracket that attaches to the second lateral frame section. Preferably, the further auger mount assembly includes a third adjusting member for adjusting the distance between the articulated auger and the central frame section. Preferably, the third adjusting member is attached to the central auger section. Preferably, the third adjusting member comprises an elongate member or arm. Preferably, the third adjusting member is length adjustable. Preferably, the third adjusting member is telescopic. Preferably, the third adjusting member is operable via a drive means such as an electric motor. Preferably, the third adjusting member is adapted for movement to define a range of angles between a main longitudinal axis of the third adjusting member and a main longitudinal axis of the central auger section. Preferably said range of angles is 70°-90°, 80°-90° or about 83°-84°. This movement allows for misalignment between the third adjusting member and the central auger section. . Preferably, this misalignment is + / - 7° i.e., when the angle between these features in the neutral or default position is 90°, the range of angles is 83°-97°. Even more preferably, the third adjusting member comprises a fourth bearing member to enable said movement to account for misalignment. Preferably, the fourth bearing member is adapted to swivel. Even more preferably, the fourth bearing member comprises a spherical bearing member, a spherical bearing, spherical O.D. bearing, spherical plain bearing or a spherical roller bearing. The main purpose of said bearings is to allow misalignment between shafts and their mounting members. The further auger mount assembly may further comprise a fourth adjustment member for adjusting the distance between the articulated auger and the rear wall of the harvesting header that extends down from the central frame assembly. Preferably, the fourth adjusting member is a third pivot bracket that allows for the angle of the longitudinal axis of the third adjusting member to be adjusted relative to the third pivot axis. Preferably, the fourth adjusting member is operable via a drive means such as an electric motor. Preferably the fourth adjusting member includes a locking means for releasably fixing the third adjusting member in place after it has been adjusted. When the second lateral auger mount allows for relative lateral movement between the second outer end and the second lateral auger mount the further auger mount assembly may comprise one or more of the features described herein in relation to the pivotable auger mount assembly to accommodate the movement between the second outer end and the second lateral auger mount. In this regard, the further auger mount assembly may also be adapted to pivot around a fourth pivot axis located outward from the second pivot axis. Preferably, the first universal joint is located outward of a point where the pivotable auger mount assembly attaches to the central auger section. Preferably, the second universal joint is located outward of a point where the further auger mount assembly attaches to the central auger section. Preferably, the first and second universal joints include a cover that at least limits the ingress of material such as crop material. Preferably, the first and second universal joints allow for the longitudinal axes of adjacent auger sections to be out of alignment by 10°-30°, 12°-28°, 15°-25°, 20°, Preferably, the articulated auger further comprises an auger drive means that applies rotational force to the articulated auger. Preferably, the auger drive means applies rotational force at one end of the articulated auger such as the second outer end of the second lateral auger section. Preferably, the auger drive means is electrically or hydraulically driven. General Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the invention described herein is susceptible to variations and modifications other than those specifically described. The invention includes all such variation and modifications. The invention also includes all of the steps and features referred to or indicated in the specification, individually or collectively and any and all combinations or any two or more of the steps or features. Each document, reference, patent application or patent cited in this text is expressly incorporated herein in their entirety by reference, which means that it should be read and considered by the reader as part of this text. That the document, reference, patent application or patent cited in this text is not repeated in this text is merely for reasons of conciseness. None of the cited material or the information contained in that material should, however be understood to be common general knowledge. The present invention is not to be limited in scope by any of the specific embodiments described herein. These embodiments are intended for the purpose of exemplification only. Functionally equivalent products and methods are clearly within the scope of the invention as described herein. The invention described herein may include one or more range of values (e.g., size, length, angles etc). A range of values will be understood to include all values within the range, including the values defining the range, and values adjacent to the range which lead to the same or substantially the same outcome as the values immediately adjacent to that value which defines the boundary to the range. Throughout this specification, unless the context requires otherwise, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising”, will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers. Other definitions for selected terms used herein may be found within the detailed description of the invention and apply throughout. Unless otherwise defined, all technical terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood to one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention belongs. DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENT(S) Figures 1A-1C, 2A-2C and 3A-3C depict an articulated auger, generally indicated by the numeral 10, according to one embodiment of a first aspect of the invention, fitted to a harvesting header 12 adapted to be attached to a harvester (not shown) and driven in a forward direction X (see Figures 1B and 1C) when in use. The harvesting header 12 is illustrated with components omitted, such as the reel, to allow for the articulated auger 10 to be more clearly depicted, and includes a main frame assembly comprised of three parts, a center frame section 14, a first lateral frame section 16 extending outwardly from one side of the centre frame section 14 and a second lateral frame section 18 extending outwardly from the other side of the centre frame section 14. The first lateral frame section 16 is attached to the central frame section 14 to allow them to pivot relative to each other about a first pivot axis 20 and the second lateral frame section 18 is attached to the central frame section 14 to allow them to pivot relative to each other about a second pivot axis 22. This arrangement allows the three frame sections 14, 16 and 18 of the harvesting header 12 to move up and down at varying angular orientations relative to one another for following ground contours. Each of frame sections 14,16 and 18 of the harvesting header 12 include a floor portion 15, 17, 19, respectively, that also move as part of their respective frame section. The articulated auger 10 includes a central auger section 10a, a first lateral auger section 10b and a second lateral auger section 10c. Each auger section 10a, 10b and 10c includes a shaft portion 24a, 24b and 24c and a flight portion 26a, 26b and 26c supported on a respective shaft portion 24a-c. The first lateral auger section 10b includes a first shaft portion 24b and a first bearing member in the form of a bearing neck 11. The first lateral auger section 10b is mounted to the first lateral frame section 16 via a first lateral auger mount in the form of first bracket 30b that includes a supporting element in the form of a brace 32b and a bearing member in the form of a slide bearing 34b that receives the bearing neck 11 and allows for relative lateral movement between the first outer end 28b of the first lateral auger section and first bracket 30b. In this regard, the bearing neck 11 is slidably mounted in slide bearing 34b. The detail of the first lateral auger mount is best depicted in Figure 4A. The first lateral auger section 10b is coupled to the central auger section 10a via a first universal joint 36 that is located outward from the first pivot axis 20. The detail of the universal joint 36 is best shown in Figure 4B. The universal joint 36 is surrounded by a collar or shroud 38a that protects the universal joint 36 and prevents or limits the ingress of material into the universal joint 36 While still providing access to lubricate the universal joint 36. The shroud 38a also allows the universal joint 36 to swivel around without contacting the first lateral auger section 10b when the first lateral auger section 10b and central auger section 10a are misaligned. The central auger section 10a is mounted to the first lateral frame section 16 via a pivotable auger mount assembly in the form of a pivoting mount 42 that is adapted to pivot around a third pivot axis 44 that is located outward from the first pivot axis 20 and defines an angle of intersection with the main longitudinal axis of first lateral frame section 16 of 90°. The third pivot axis 44 also defines an angle of intersection with the first pivot axis of 62°-82°. End 41a of the central auger section 10a is located outward of first pivot axis 20 and end 41 b of the central auger section 10a is located outward of second pivot axis 22 (see Figure 1B). The detail of the pivoting mount 42 is best shown in Figures 4B and 4C and includes a first base bracket 42a that attaches to the lateral frame section 16, a pin member in the form of pin 42b and a first pivot bracket 42c that is rotatably mounted on pin 42b. When the pivoting mount 42 is fully assembled first pivot bracket 42c can rotate around pivot axis 44 that passes through pin 42b that is located outward from the first pivot axis 20. The range of rotation around pivot axis 44 is about 46° and it can rotate in both a clockwise and anticlockwise directions (+ / -23°). The first pivot bracket 42c is also attached to a first adjusting member in the form of a first arm 46 that is slidably mounted for telescopic movement in housing 48 and is for adjusting the distance between the articulated auger 10 and the central frame section 14. The distance between the articulated auger 10 and the central frame section 14 is adjusted by altering the position of the first arm 46 relative to the housing 48. In this regard, first arm 46 is adjusted via a first actuator in the form of a first electric motor 50a that drives a first shaft 52a that telescopically extends or retracts the first actuating arm 46 in the housing 48. Further adjustment of the pivoting mount 42 is effected via a second adjusting member in the form of second pivot bracket 43 for adjusting the distance between the articulated auger and a rear wall of the harvesting header that extends down from the central frame assembly. Such adjustment of the pivoting mount 42 also adjusts the distance between the floor portion 15 of the harvesting header. The floor portions 15, 17, 19 extend from the central frame assembly and usually comprises of rubber conveyor belts commonly known as draper belts or drapers. Second pivot bracket 43 includes a guide slot 45 and allows for the angle of the longitudinal axis of the first arm 46 to be adjusted relative to the third pivot axis by loosening the locking means in the form of bolt 47a that sits in guide slot 45 which allows first arm to be moved around the pivot axis defined by bolt 47b under the operation of electric motor 50b that extends and retracts shaft 52b (best illustrated in Figure 4C). At the lower end of first arm 46 is provided a third bearing member in the form of spherical ball bearing 49. Spherical ball bearing 49 can swivel to allow for misalignment between the first arm 46 and the central auger section 10a and in particular for the angle between the main longitudinal axis of the first arm 46 and the main longitudinal of the central auger section 10a to vary. This angle is 90° by default (when the respective parts are in their neutral position) and the spherical ball bearing 49 allows misalignment between + / -25°, i.e., allows the angle between the first arm 46 and central auger section 10a to be within the range of 65°-115°. Spherical ball bearing 49 consists of a housing 51 and a ball bearing element (not shown) therein. The change in angle is achieved by the rotation of the bearing element within housing 51 (see Figure 4C). The central auger section 10a is also mounted to the second lateral frame section 18 via a further auger mount assembly in the form of a mount 60. The detail of the mount 60 is best shown in Figures 5B and 5C and includes a second base bracket 60a that attaches to the second lateral frame section 18. The second base bracket 60a is also attached to a third adjusting member in the form of arm 62 that is slidably mounted for telescopic movement in housing 64 and is for adjusting the distance between the articulated auger 10 and the central frame section 14. The distance between the articulated auger 10 and the central frame section 14 is adjusted by altering the position of the arm 62 relative to the housing 64. In this regard, arm 62 is operable by a second electric motor 66a that drives a shaft 68a that telescopically extends or retracts the arm 62 in the housing 64. Further adjustment of the mount 60 is effected via a fourth adjusting member insofar as the second base bracket 60a is also adapted to pivot to adjust the distance between the articulated auger and a rear wall of the harvesting header that extends down from the central frame assembly. Such further adjustment of mount 60 also adjusts the distance between the floor portion 15 of the harvesting header. Second base bracket 60a includes a guide slot 60b and allows for the angle of the longitudinal axis of the arm 62 to be adjusted relative to the third pivot axis by loosening the locking means in the form of bolt 61a that sits in guide slot 60b which allows arm 62 to be moved around the pivot axis defined by bolt 61b under the operation of electric motor 66b that extends and retracts shaft 68b (best illustrated in Figure 5C). At the lower end of arm 62 is provided a fourth bearing member in the form of spherical ball bearing 63. Spherical ball bearing 63 allows for misalignment between the arm 62 and the central auger section 10a and in particular for the angle between the main longitudinal axis of the arm 62 and the main longitudinal of the central auger section 10a to vary. This angle is 90° by default (when the respective parts are in their neutral position) and the spherical ball bearing 63 allows misalignment between + / -7°, i.e., allows the angle between the arm 62 and central auger section 10a to be within the range of 83°-97°. Spherical ball bearing 63 consists of a housing 65a and a bearing element therein (not shown). The change in angle is achieved by the rotation of bearing element within housing 65 (see Figure 5C). The second lateral auger section 10c defines a second shaft portion 24c and a second bearing member in the form of a bearing neck 13. The second lateral auger section 10c is mounted to the second lateral frame section 18 via a second lateral auger mount in the form of second bracket 30c that includes a supporting element in the form of a brace 32c and a bearing member in the form of a bearing 35 that receives the second shaft portion 24c of the second lateral auger section 10c, via bearing neck 13, in a way that does not allow for relative lateral movement between the bearing neck 13 and the second mount. The second outer end 28c also includes a drive means in the form of motor 29 that is fitted to the free end of the bearing neck 13 and is adapted to rotate the articulated auger 10. The detail of the second mount is best depicted in Figure 5A. The second lateral auger section 10c is coupled to the central auger section 10a via a second universal joint 40 that is located outward from the second pivot axis 22. The detail of the second universal joint 40 is best shown in Figure 5B and corresponds closely to that shown for the first universal joint 36 shown in Figure 4A (albeit in reverse). The second universal joint 40 is also surrounded by a collar or shroud 38b that protects the second universal joint 40 and prevents or limits the ingress of material into the second universal joint 40 while still providing access to lubricate the second universal joint 40. The shroud 38b also allows the universal joint 40 to swivel around without clashing into the second lateral auger section 10c when the second lateral auger section 10c and central auger section 10a are misaligned. Figures 6 and 7A to 7I illustrate the articulated auger 10 in various configurations when in use. Figure 6 is a schematic representation of the articulated auger 10, comprised of a central auger section 10a, a first lateral auger section 10b and a second lateral auger section 10c, fitted to a harvesting header 12 for a harvester 100. As in earlier figures, the harvesting header 12 is illustrated with components omitted to allow for the articulated auger 10 to be more clearly depicted and includes a main frame assembly comprised of three parts, a center frame section 14, a first lateral frame section 16 extending outwardly from one side of the centre frame section 14 on the right hand side (RHS) of the harvesting header 12 (from behind and the perspective of a driver of the harvester) and a second lateral frame section 18 extending outwardly from the other side of the centre frame section 14 on the left hand side (LHS) of the harvesting header 12 (from behind and the perspective of the driver of the harvester). The center frame section 14 and first lateral frame section 16 are adapted to pivot relative to each other around first pivot axis 20 and the center frame section 14 and second lateral frame section 18 are adapted to pivot relative to each other around second pivot axis 22. Other reference numerals in Figure 6 correspond to the same parts as those described above in relation to earlier figures. Figure 7A depicts the harvesting header 12 in a configuration where the lower surfaces of frame sections 14, 16 and 18 are essentially aligned or substantially co-planar in a substantially horizontal plane (best shown in lower panel of Figure 7A). This configuration reflects the harvesting header operating in a field with a ground surface that is substantially horizontal or level and where there is no need for the lateral frame sections 16 or 18 to pivot relative to central frame section 14. The articulated auger 10 is supported from the main frame assembly via the slide bearing 34b located at the end of first bracket 30b, the pivoting mount 42, mount 60 and bearing 35 located at the end of second bracket 30c. The pivoting mount 42 is adapted to pivot around the pivot axis 44 that passes through pin 42b and is located outward from the first pivot axis 20. In this configuration, the main axis of the apertures in the housing 51 and bearing 49 (see Figure 4C) and the main axis of the center auger section 10a that passes therethrough are aligned and coaxial to each other. Similarly, in this configuration the main axis of the apertures in the housing 65a and bearing 63 (see Figure 5C) and the main axis of the center auger section 10a that passes therethrough are aligned and coaxial to each other. Figure 7B depicts the harvesting header 12 in a configuration where the lower surface of the first lateral frame section 16 has pivoted around first pivot axis 20 (see Figure 6) to a position inclined relative to the central frame section 14 (best shown in lower panel of Figure 7B). This configuration reflects the harvesting header operating in a field with a ground surface level, adjacent and below the first lateral frame section 16, that is higher than the ground level adjacent and below the central frame section 14. Despite the movement of the first lateral frame section 16, the first lateral auger section 10b retains its position relative to the first lateral frame section 16 through the pivotal movement at first universal joint 36 and pivoting mount 42 and the relative lateral movement between the first outer end 28b of the first lateral auger section 10b and the first bracket 30b that is enabled by the bearing neck 11 being able to slide in slide bearing 34b and thus the first outer end 28b shifting outward relative to the first bracket 30b. Pivoting mount 42 allows for clockwise rotation (in top view and relative to its position in Figure 7A) around the third pivot axis 44 (best shown in lower frame of Figure 7B) and this movement is aided / assisted by movement or swiveling of the bearings 49, 63 relative to their respective housings 51 and 65a from their positions shown in Figure 7A. The main axis of the apertures in bearings 49 and 63 and the center auger section 10a that passes therethrough remain aligned and coaxial. Figure 7C depicts the harvesting header 12 in a configuration where the lower surface of the first lateral frame section 16 has pivoted (relative to its position in Figure 7A) around first pivot axis 20 to a position declined relative to the central frame section 14 (best shown in lower panel of Figure 7C). This configuration reflects the harvesting header operating in a field with a ground surface level, adjacent and below the first lateral frame section 16, that is lower than the ground level adjacent and below the central frame section 14. Despite the movement of the first lateral frame section 16, the first lateral auger section 10b retains its position relative to the first lateral frame section 16 through the pivotal movement at first universal joint 36 and pivoting mount 42 and the relative lateral movement between the first outer end 28b of the first lateral auger section 10b and the first bracket 30b that is enabled by the bearing neck 11 being able to slide in slide bearing 34b and thus the first outer end 28b shifting inwards relative to the first bracket 30b. Pivoting mount 42 allows for anti-clockwise rotation (in top view and relative to its position in Figure 7A) around the third pivot axis 44 (best shown in lower frame of Figure 7C) and this movement is aided / assisted by movement or swiveling of the bearings 49, 63 relative to their respective housings 51 and 65a from their positions shown in Figure 7A. The main axis of the apertures in bearings 49 and 63 and the center auger section 10a that passes therethrough remain aligned and coaxial. Figure 7D depicts the harvesting header 12 in a configuration where the lower surface of the second lateral frame section 18 has pivoted around second pivot axis 22 (see Figure 6) to a position inclined relative to the central frame section 14 (best shown in lower panel of Figure 7D). This configuration reflects the harvesting header operating in a field with a ground surface level, adjacent and below the second lateral frame section 18, that is higher than the ground level adjacent and below the central frame section 14. Despite the movement of the second lateral frame section 18, the second lateral auger section 10c retains its position relative to the second lateral frame section 18 through the pivotal movement at second universal joint 40 and pivoting mount 42 and the relative lateral movement between the first outer end 28b of the first lateral auger section 10b and the first bracket 30b that is enabled by the bearing neck 11 being able to slide in slide bearing 34b and thus the first outer end 28b shifting outward relative to the first bracket 30b. Pivoting mount 42 allows for clockwise rotation (in top view and relative to its position in Figure 7A) around the third pivot axis 44 (best shown in lower frame of Figure 7D) and this movement is aided / assisted by movement or swiveling of the bearings 49, 63 relative to their respective housings 51 and 65a from their positions shown in Figure 7A. The main axis of the apertures in bearings 49 and 63 and the center auger section 10a that passes therethrough remain aligned and coaxial. Figure 7E depicts the harvesting header 12 in a configuration where the lower surface of the first lateral frame section 16 has pivoted around first pivot axis 20 (see Figure 6) and the lower surface of the second lateral frame section 18 has pivoted around second pivot axis 22 (see Figure 6) to positions where they are both inclined relative to the central frame section 14 (best shown in lower panel of Figure 7E). This configuration reflects the harvesting header operating in a field with a ground surface level, adjacent and below both lateral frame sections 16, 18 that is higher than the ground level adjacent and below the central frame section 14. Despite the movement of the lateral frame sections 16, 18, the lateral auger sections 10b, 10c retain their position relative to the lateral frame sections 16, 18 through the pivotal movement at universal joints 36, 40 and pivoting mount 42 and the relative lateral movement between the first outer end 28b of the first lateral auger section 10b and the first bracket 30b that is enabled by the bearing neck 11 being able to slide in slide bearing 34b and thus the first outer end 28b shifting outward relative to the first bracket 30b. Pivoting mount 42 allows for clockwise rotation (in top view and relative to its position in Figure 7A) around the third pivot axis 44 (best shown in lower frame of Figure 7E) and this movement is aided / assisted by movement or swiveling of the bearings 49, 63 relative to their respective housings 51 and 65a from their positions shown in Figure 7A. The main axis of the apertures in bearings 49 and 63 and the center auger section 10a that passes therethrough remain aligned and coaxial. Figure 7F depicts the harvesting header 12 in a configuration where the lower surface of the first lateral frame section 16 has pivoted around first pivot axis 20 (see Figure 6) and the lower surface of the second lateral frame section 18 has pivoted around second pivot axis 22 (see Figure 6) to positions where they are declined and inclined, respectively, relative to the central frame section 14 (best shown in lower panel of Figure 7F). This configuration reflects the harvesting header operating in a field with a ground surface level, adjacent and below lateral frame section 16 that is lower than the ground level adjacent and below the central frame section 14 and a ground surface level, adjacent and below lateral frame section 18 that is higher than the ground level adjacent and below the central frame section 14. Despite the movement of the lateral frame sections 16, 18, the lateral auger sections 10b, 10c retain their position relative to the lateral frame sections 16, 18 through the pivotal movement at universal joints 36, 40. There is negligible relative lateral movement between the first outer end 28b of the first lateral auger section 10b and the first bracket 30b and negligible rotation of pivoting mount 42 around the third pivot axis 44 and this movement is aided / assisted by movement or swiveling of the bearings 49, 63 relative to their respective housings 51 and 65a from their positions shown in Figure 7A. The main axis of the apertures in bearings 49 and 63 and the center auger section 10a that passes therethrough remain aligned and coaxial. Figure 7G depicts the harvesting header 12 in a configuration where the lower surface of the second lateral frame section 18 has pivoted around second pivot axis 22 (see Figure 6) to a position declined relative to the central frame section 14 (best shown in lower panel of Figure 7G). This configuration reflects the harvesting header operating in a field with a ground surface level, adjacent and below the second lateral frame section 18, that is lower than the ground level adjacent and below the central frame section 14. Despite the movement of the second lateral frame section 18, the second lateral auger section 10c retains its position relative to the second lateral frame section 18 through the pivotal movement at second universal joint 40 and pivoting mount 42 and the relative lateral movement between the first outer end 28b of the first lateral auger section 10b and the first bracket 30b that is enabled by the bearing neck 11 being able to slide in slide bearing 34b and thus the first outer end 28b shifting inwards relative to the first bracket 30b. Pivoting mount 42 allows for anti-clockwise rotation (in top view and relative to its position in Figure 7A) around the third pivot axis 44 (best shown in lower frame of Figure 7G) and this movement is aided / assisted by movement or swiveling of the bearings 49, 63 relative to their respective housings 51 and 65a from their positions shown in Figure 7A. The main axis of the apertures in bearings 49 and 63 and the center auger section 10a that passes therethrough remain aligned and coaxial. Figure 7H depicts the harvesting header 12 in a configuration where the lower surface of the first lateral frame section 16 has pivoted around first pivot axis 20 (see Figure 6) and the lower surface of the second lateral frame section 18 has pivoted around second pivot axis 22 (see Figure 6) to positions where they are inclined and declined, respectively, relative to the central frame section 14 (best shown in lower panel of Figure 7H). This configuration reflects the harvesting header operating in a field with a ground surface level, adjacent and below lateral frame section 16 that is higher than the ground level adjacent and below the central frame section 14 and a ground surface level, adjacent and below lateral frame section 18 that is lower than the ground level adjacent and below the central frame section 14. Despite the movement of the lateral frame sections 16, 18, the lateral auger sections 10b, 10c retain their position relative to the lateral frame sections 16, 18 through the pivotal movement at universal joints 36, 40. There is negligible relative lateral movement between the first outer end 28b of the first lateral auger section 10b and the first bracket 30b and negligible rotation of pivoting mount 42 around the third pivot axis 44 and this movement is aided / assisted by movement or swiveling of the bearings 49, 63 relative to their respective housings 51 and 65a from their positions shown in Figure 7A. The main axis of the apertures in bearings 49 and 63 and the center auger section 10a that passes therethrough remain aligned and coaxial. Figure 7I depicts the harvesting header 12 in a configuration where the lower surface of the first lateral frame section 16 has pivoted around first pivot axis 20 (see Figure 6) and the lower surface of the second lateral frame section 18 has pivoted around second pivot axis 22 (see Figure 6) to positions where they are both declined relative to the central frame section 14 (best shown in lower panel of Figure 7I). This configuration reflects the harvesting header operating in a field with a ground surface level, adjacent and below both lateral frame sections 16, 18 that is lower than the ground level adjacent and below the central frame section 14. Despite the movement of the lateral frame sections 16, 18, the lateral auger sections 10b, 10c retain their position relative to the lateral frame sections 16, 18 through the pivotal movement at universal joints 36, 40 and pivoting mount 42 and the relative lateral movement between the first outer end 28b of the first lateral 5 auger section 10b and the first bracket 30b that is enabled by the bearing neck 11 being able to slide in slide bearing 34b and thus the first outer end 28b shifting inwards relative to the first bracket 30b. Pivoting mount 42 allows for ant-clockwise rotation (in top view and relative to its position in Figure 7A) around the third pivot axis 44 (best shown in lower frame of Figure 7I) and this movement is 10 aided / assisted by movement or swiveling of the bearings 49, 63 relative to their respective housings 51 and 65a from their positions shown in Figure 7A. The main axis of the apertures in bearings 49 and 63 and the center auger section 10a that passes therethrough remain aligned and coaxial.

Claims

1. An articulated auger for a harvesting header that includes a main frame assembly including a centre frame section, a first lateral frame section extending outwardly from one side of the centre frame section, a second lateral frame section extending outwardly from the other side of the centre frame section and wherein the first lateral frame section is attached to the central frame section to allow the first lateral frame section and the central frame section to pivot relative to each other about a first pivot axis and the second lateral frame section is attached to the central frame section to allow the second lateral frame section and the central frame section to pivot relative to each other about a second pivot axis, the articulated auger comprising:(a) a central auger section;(b) a first lateral auger section including a first bearing member, defining a first outer end, the first lateral auger section being mounted to the main frame assembly via a first lateral auger mount that allows for relative lateral movement between the first outer end and the first lateral auger mount;(c) a second lateral auger section defining a second outer end and being mounted to the main frame assembly via a second lateral auger mount;(d) a first universal joint, between the first lateral auger section and the central auger section, located outward from the first pivot axis;(e) a second universal joint, between the second lateral section and the central section, located outward from the second pivot axis;(f) a pivotable auger mount assembly for attaching the central auger section to the first lateral frame section of the main frame assembly, wherein the pivotable auger mount assembly is adapted to pivot around a third pivot axis located outward from the first pivot axis; and(g) a further auger mount assembly for attaching the central auger section to the second lateral frame section of the main frame assembly.

2. The articulated auger of claim 1 wherein the first bearing member is adapted to engage with a compatible bearing member that forms part of the first lateral auger mount.

3. The articulated auger of claim 1 or 2 wherein the second lateral auger section includes a second bearing member adapted to engage with a second compatible bearing member that forms part of the second lateral auger mount.

4. The articulated auger of any one of the preceding claims wherein the second lateral auger mount does not allow for relative lateral movement between the second outer end of the second lateral auger section and the second lateral auger mount.

5. The articulated auger of any one of claims 1 to 3 wherein the second lateral auger mount allows for relative lateral movement between the second outer end and the second lateral auger mount.

6. The articulated auger of any one of the preceding claims wherein a first end of the central auger section extends to a point outward of the first pivot axis or a second end of the central auger section extends to a point outward of the second pivot axis.

7. The articulated auger of any one of claims 1 to 5 wherein the first end of the central auger section extends to a point outward of the first pivot axis and the second end of the central auger extends to a point outward of the second pivot axis.

8. The articulated auger of any one of the preceding claims wherein the pivotable auger mount assembly is attached to the central auger section at a point located outward from the first pivot axis.

9. The articulated auger of any one of the preceding claims wherein the third pivot axis defines an angle of intersection with the main longitudinal axis of the first lateral frame section of 75°-90°.

10. The articulated auger of claim 9 wherein the angle of intersection is 80°-90°, 85°-90° or 90°.

11. The articulated auger of any one of the preceding claims wherein the pivotable auger mount assembly is adapted to pivot around the third pivot axis in a clockwise and an anti-clockwise direction.

12. The articulated auger according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the pivotable auger mount assembly is adapted to pivot around the third pivot axis through at least about 45°-65°.

13. The articulated auger according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the pivotable auger mount assembly includes a first adjusting member for adjusting the distance between the articulated auger and the central frame section.

14. The articulated auger according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the pivotable auger mount assembly comprises a second adjusting member for adjusting the distance between the articulated auger and a rear wall of the harvesting header that extends down from the central frame assembly.

15. The articulated auger according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the further auger mount assembly is attached to the central auger section at a point located outward from the second pivot axis.

16. The articulated auger according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the further auger mount assembly includes a third adjusting member for adjusting the distance between the articulated auger and the central frame section.

17. The articulated auger according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the further auger mount assembly includes a fourth adjustment member for adjusting the distance between the articulated auger and the rear wall of the harvesting header that extends down from the central frame assembly.

18. The articulated auger according to claim 5 wherein the further auger mount assembly is adapted to pivot around a fourth pivot axis located outward from the second pivot axis.

19. The articulated auger according to any of the preceding claims wherein the first universal joint is located outward of a point where the pivotable auger mount assembly attaches to the central auger section.

20. The articulated auger according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the second universal joint is located outward of a point where the further auger mount assembly attaches to the central auger section.21 .The articulated auger according to any one of the preceding claims wherein at least one of the first and second universal joints include a cover that at least limits the ingress of material such as crop material.

22. The articulated auger according to any one of the preceding claims wherein at least one of the first and second universal joints allow for the longitudinal axes of adjacent auger sections to be out of alignment by 10°-30°, 12°-28°, 15°-25°, 20°, 21°, 22°, 23° 24°.

23. The articulated auger according to any one of the preceding claims further comprising an auger drive means that applies rotational force to the articulated auger.

24. The articulated auger according to claim 23 wherein the auger drive means applies rotational force at the second outer end of the second lateral auger section.

Images