Paddy field working machine

Abstract

This invention provides a paddy field operation machine, aiming to reduce the damage to the paddy field surface caused by the rear wheel on the center side of the turn during cornering in a four-wheel drive paddy field operation machine. The paddy field operation machine of this invention includes: a right-side side clutch (51) capable of transmitting and disconnecting power to the right rear wheel (2); and a left-side side clutch (52) capable of transmitting and disconnecting power to the left rear wheel (2). When the front wheel (1) passes a set angle (R1) on the right and is turned to the right, the left-side side clutch (52) is operated to the transmission state while the right-side side clutch (51) is alternately and repeatedly operated to the transmission state and the disengagement state. When the front wheel (1) passes a set angle (L1) on the left and is turned to the left, the right-side side clutch (51) is operated to the transmission state while the left-side side clutch (52) is alternately and repeatedly operated to the transmission state and the disengagement state.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the structure of the driving system of four-wheel drive paddy field operation machines such as ride-on rice transplanters and ride-on direct seeders. Background Technology

[0002] Among the four-wheel drive type riding rice transplanters, which are examples of paddy field operation machines, there are riding rice transplanters that, as disclosed in Patent Document 1, do not have differential mechanisms for the right and left rear wheels, but instead have a right-side clutch that can transmit and cut off power to the right rear wheel and a left-side clutch that can transmit and cut off power to the left rear wheel.

[0003] In Patent Document 1, when the front wheel 1 is steered to a position near the straight-ahead position, the right and left side clutches are operated to the transmission state, and the four wheels—the right and left front wheels, the right and left rear wheels—are in a state of being driven by rotation.

[0004] For example, when the front wheels are turned sharply to the right to make a right turn, the right-side clutch is disengaged, and the three wheels—the right and left front wheels and the left rear wheel—are driven to rotate and make a right turn.

[0005] In this situation, the right-side clutch is disengaged, allowing the right rear wheel to rotate freely. As it slowly rotates to the right, it changes direction. By allowing the rear wheel on the center of the turn to rotate freely, the risk of damage to the field from the rear wheel on the center of the turn is reduced.

[0006] For example, in deep paddy fields, paddy field soil containing a large amount of clay, or large paddy field work machines with heavy weight, the rear wheels experience greater resistance.

[0007] When the rear wheel experiences significant resistance, even if the clutch on the center of the turn is disengaged while turning, the rear wheel on the center of the turn may not rotate slowly due to the high resistance. As a result, the rear wheel on the center of the turn may change direction in the opposite direction of the turn while stationary at that position.

[0008] If, as described above, the rear wheel on the center of the turn changes direction in the opposite direction while stationary at that position, the surface may be damaged by the rear wheel on the center of the turn, and there is room for improvement.

[0009] Existing technical documents

[0010] Patent documents

[0011] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2014-161318 Summary of the Invention

[0012] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0013] The purpose of this invention is to reduce the damage to the paddy field surface caused by the rear wheel on the center side of the turn when the four-wheel drive paddy field machine is turning.

[0014] Solution for solving the problem

[0015] The paddy field operation machine of the present invention includes: right and left front wheels capable of being steered and rotated; right and left rear wheels; a right-side clutch capable of transmitting and disengaging power to the right rear wheel; a left-side clutch capable of transmitting and disengaging power to the left rear wheel; a steering angle detection unit for detecting the orientation of the front wheels; and a side clutch operation unit capable of operating the right and left side clutches to a transmission state and a disengagement state based on the detection of the steering angle detection unit, when the front wheels are within a range of predetermined angles from a straight position to the right and left sides. The side clutch operating unit operates the right and left side clutches to the transmission state. When the front wheel passes the set angle on the right side and is turned to the right, the side clutch operating unit operates the left side clutch to the transmission state while alternately and repeatedly operating the right side clutch to the transmission state and the disengagement state. When the front wheel passes the set angle on the left side and is turned to the left, the side clutch operating unit operates the right side clutch to the transmission state while alternately and repeatedly operating the left side clutch to the transmission state and the disengagement state.

[0016] According to the present invention, when the front wheel is steered to a range of predetermined angles from the straight position to the right and left, the side clutches on the right and left are operated to the transmission state, and the four wheels, namely the front wheels on the right and left and the rear wheels on the right and left, are in a state of being driven by rotation.

[0017] According to the present invention, when the front wheel passes the right (left) side at a set angle and is turned to the right (left) by a steering operation, while the front wheels on the right and left sides and the rear wheel on the outside of the turn are rotated and driven, the side clutch on the center of the turn is alternately and repeatedly operated to the transmission state and the disengagement state.

[0018] Therefore, even when the side clutch on the center of the turn is disengaged, the rear wheel on the center of the turn stops, and then when the side clutch on the center of the turn is engaged, the rear wheel on the center of the turn is driven to rotate.

[0019] According to the present invention, by configuring the rear wheel on the center of the turn to repeatedly rotate and stop even when the rear wheel is subjected to large resistance, it is possible to suppress the rear wheel on the center of the turn from changing direction in the opposite direction of the turn while stopped at that position. It is possible to obtain a state in which the rear wheel on the center of the turn changes direction while slowly rotating with the turn, and it is possible to reduce the damage to the field surface caused by the rear wheel on the center of the turn.

[0020] As a structure different from the present invention, consider the following structure: in the right and left side clutches of the friction multi-plate type, the side clutch on the turning center side is operated to a half-drive state, so that while the side clutch on the turning center side slides, power is slowly transmitted to the rear wheel on the turning center side.

[0021] In this structure, when the rear wheel experiences particularly high resistance, the side clutch on the center of the turn will completely slip, resulting in the rear wheel on the center of the turn not being driven by rotation. If this slipping state of the side clutch on the center of the turn is maintained for a long period of time, it may cause the side clutch to overheat and wear, leading to a decrease in the durability of the side clutch.

[0022] According to the present invention, the side clutch on the turning center side is alternately and repeatedly operated to the transmission state and the disengagement state, which makes it less likely to produce a half-transmission state of the side clutch on the turning center side, and thus rarely causes the above-mentioned problems.

[0023] In this invention, preferably, the side clutch operating unit has: a driving unit; and a coupling mechanism that transmits the action of the driving unit to the right and left side clutches, and operates the right and left side clutches to a transmission state and a disengagement state.

[0024] According to the present invention, in the side clutch operating unit, the side clutch on the turning center side can be easily and repeatedly operated alternately to the transmission state and the disengagement state by controlling the drive unit.

[0025] Furthermore, the transmission time when the side clutch on the turning center side is operated to the transmission state and the disengagement time when the side clutch on the turning center side is operated to the disengagement state can be easily controlled by the drive unit to set the transmission time and the disengagement time to the same length or to make the transmission time longer or shorter than the disengagement time.

[0026] According to the present invention, in the side clutch operating section, the operation of the drive section is transmitted to the right and left side clutches via the coupling mechanism. Therefore, it is easy to position the drive section at a higher position that is upward away from the field surface, which can suppress the adhesion of soil and water to the drive section and is advantageous in terms of improving the durability of the drive section.

[0027] In this invention, preferably, it comprises: a rear axle box supporting the right and left rear wheels and accommodating the right and left side clutches; the coupling mechanism having: a relay member disposed between the axle of the front wheel and the axle of the rear wheel when viewed from the side; a first coupling member connecting the drive unit and the relay member; and a second coupling member connecting the relay member and the right and left side clutches.

[0028] In paddy field operation machines, sometimes a rear axle box is installed to support the right and left rear wheels. Sometimes the rear axle box is supported to the machine frame in a lateral manner or via a suspension mechanism.

[0029] According to the present invention, when the side clutches on the right and left sides are housed in the rear axle box, in the coupling mechanism of the side clutch operating part, the relay member of the coupling mechanism is arranged in front of the rear axle box, and the second coupling member of the coupling mechanism extends rearward from the relay member and connects to the side clutches on the right and left sides of the rear axle box.

[0030] Therefore, even if the rear axle box makes a lateral movement or moves up and down through the suspension mechanism, the lateral movement and up and down movement of the rear axle box can be smoothly absorbed by making the second connecting member of the connecting mechanism swing around the relay member as the fulcrum.

[0031] According to the present invention, the first connecting member of the connecting mechanism is connected between the drive unit and the relay member of the connecting mechanism, thereby enabling the drive unit to be easily positioned at a higher position upward away from the field surface via the first connecting member of the connecting mechanism.

[0032] In this invention, preferably, it comprises: right and left suspension links, which are supported in a manner that allows them to swing up and down about an axis in the left-right direction, between the axle of the front wheel and the axle of the rear wheel of the body frame when viewed from the side, extending rearward from the axis, the rear axle box being supported at the rear of the suspension links and supported on the body frame via suspension springs, and the relay member being disposed between the right and left suspension links when viewed from above.

[0033] In paddy field work machines, when the rear axle box is supported on the machine frame via a suspension mechanism, it is sometimes configured such that the right and left suspension links are supported on the portion between the front wheel axle and the rear wheel axle of the machine frame in a way that allows them to swing up and down, and extend rearward. The rear axle box is supported on the rear of the suspension links and is supported on the machine frame via suspension springs (e.g., five-link, three-link, etc.).

[0034] According to the present invention, in the above-described state, the relay member of the connecting mechanism is arranged between the right and left suspension links when viewed from above. Therefore, the space between the right and left suspension links can be effectively utilized to compactly arrange the relay member of the connecting mechanism.

[0035] In this invention, it is preferred that the second connecting member is configured along the suspension links on the right and left sides when viewed from the side.

[0036] According to the present invention, as described above, when the relay member of the connecting mechanism is arranged between the right and left suspension links in a top view, the second connecting member of the connecting mechanism is arranged along the right and left suspension links in a side view, thereby enabling a compact arrangement of the second connecting member of the connecting mechanism.

[0037] In this invention, it is preferable that the drive unit is positioned at a location further rearward than the relay member and higher than the rear axle box.

[0038] In paddy field operation machines, sometimes the driver's seat is positioned above the rear axle box, and the floor for the driver to place their feet while standing or sitting in the driver's seat is located in front of the driver's seat, sometimes creating space between the rear axle box and the driver's seat.

[0039] According to the present invention, when a space is created above the rear axle box, the drive unit can be arranged in that space, thus enabling the drive unit to be arranged compactly by effectively utilizing the space created above the rear axle box.

[0040] In this invention, preferably, the driving unit has an actuator and a reciprocating motion member reciprocatedly driven by the actuator. The actuator reciprocates the reciprocating motion member between a neutral position and a side operating position, and also reciprocates the reciprocating motion member between the neutral position and the other side operating position. The unit includes: a right-side coupling mechanism connected between the reciprocating motion member and a right-side side clutch; and a left-side coupling mechanism connected between the reciprocating motion member and a left-side side clutch. The right-side coupling mechanism has a right-side accommodating portion, which is configured to: when the reciprocating motion member is operated to the neutral position, operate the right-side side clutch to a transmission state; and when the reciprocating motion member is operated to the side operating position, operate the right-side side clutch to a transmission state. The clutch is operated to the disengaged state, and even if the reciprocating member is operated to the other operating position, the movement of the reciprocating member towards the other operating position will not be transmitted to the right side clutch, thus keeping the right side clutch in the driving state. The left connecting mechanism has a left-side accommodating portion, which is configured such that when the reciprocating member is operated to the neutral position, the left side clutch is operated to the driving state; when the reciprocating member is operated to the other operating position, the left side clutch is operated to the disengaged state; and even if the reciprocating member is operated to one operating position, the movement of the reciprocating member towards that operating position will not be transmitted to the left side clutch, thus keeping the left side clutch in the driving state.

[0041] According to the present invention, in the drive unit, when the reciprocating motion member is operated to the neutral position by the actuator, the side clutches on the right and left sides are operated to the transmission state.

[0042] In the drive unit, when the reciprocating motion member is driven back and forth between the neutral position and the side operating position by the actuator, the motion of the reciprocating motion member is transmitted to the right side clutch via the right-side connecting mechanism, and the right-side side clutch is operated to the transmission state and the disengagement state. In this case, the motion of the reciprocating motion member towards the side operating position is not transmitted to the left-side side clutch via the fusion section of the left-side connecting mechanism, and the left-side side clutch remains in the transmission state.

[0043] In the drive unit, when the reciprocating motion member is driven back and forth between the neutral position and the other operating position by the actuator, the movement of the reciprocating motion member is transmitted to the left side clutch via the left connecting mechanism, and the left side clutch is operated to the transmission state and the disengagement state. In this case, the movement of the reciprocating motion member to the other operating position is not transmitted to the right side clutch via the fusion part of the right connecting mechanism, and the right side clutch remains in the transmission state.

[0044] According to the present invention, the state in which the right side clutch is operated to the transmission state and the state in which the left side clutch is operated to the transmission state and the state in which the reciprocating motion member ... Attached Figure Description

[0045] Figure 1 This is a left view of a ride-on rice transplanter.

[0046] Figure 2 This is a top view of a ride-on rice transplanter.

[0047] Figure 3 This is the left view near the frame of the machine.

[0048] Figure 4 It is a top view of the area near the fuselage frame.

[0049] Figure 5 This is an exploded perspective view of the side clutch operating section.

[0050] Figure 6 It is a schematic top view showing the transmission system for the front and rear wheels and the side clutch operating unit.

[0051] Figure 7 This is a top view showing the working state of the side clutch operating unit.

[0052] Figure 8 This is a left view of the linkage mechanism near the seedling transplanting device in the state of being lowered.

[0053] Figure 9 It is an exploded 3D view of the area around the linkage mechanism.

[0054] Figure 10 This is a left view of the linkage mechanism near the seedling transplanting device in the upward operation state.

[0055] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0056] 1: Front wheel;

[0057] 1a: Axle;

[0058] 2: Rear wheel;

[0059] 2a: Axle;

[0060] 22: Rear axle box;

[0061] 30: Body frame;

[0062] 41: Suspension links;

[0063] 42: Suspension link;

[0064] 47: Suspension springs;

[0065] 50: Side clutch operating unit;

[0066] 51: Side clutch;

[0067] 52: Side clutch;

[0068] 54: Drive unit;

[0069] 55: Connecting mechanism;

[0070] 56: Connecting mechanism;

[0071] 60: Relay components;

[0072] 61: First connecting member;

[0073] 62: Second connecting member;

[0074] 62b: Finance and Financing Department;

[0075] 64: Electric motor (actuator);

[0076] 58: Operating gear (reciprocating motion component);

[0077] 68: Steering angle sensor (steering angle detection unit);

[0078] 70: Relay components;

[0079] 71: First connecting member;

[0080] 72: Second connecting member;

[0081] 72b: Finance and Financing Department;

[0082] A1: Neutral position;

[0083] A2: One-sided operating position;

[0084] A3: The operating position on the other side;

[0085] N: Straight position;

[0086] R1: Set the angle;

[0087] L1: Set angle;

[0088] P3: Axis;

[0089] P4: Axis. Detailed Implementation

[0090] Figures 1-10 This image shows a ten-row, riding-type rice transplanter, an example of a paddy field work machine. Figures 1-10 In the diagram, F represents the forward direction, B represents the backward direction, U represents the up direction, D represents the down direction, R represents the right direction, and L represents the left direction.

[0091] (Overall structure of a ride-on rice transplanter)

[0092] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the riding-type rice transplanter has a linkage mechanism 3 and a hydraulic cylinder 4 for raising and lowering the linkage mechanism 3 at the rear of the body frame 30, which has right and left front wheels 1 and right and left rear wheels 2. A seedling planting device 5 is supported at the rear of the linkage mechanism 3, and the seedling planting device 5 is supported at the rear of the body frame 30 in a height-adjustable manner. In addition to the seedling planting device 5, the riding-type rice transplanter is also equipped with a land preparation device 11, a fertilization device 12, and a pesticide dispensing device 28.

[0093] (Structure of the seedling transplanting device)

[0094] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the seedling transplanting device 5 is equipped with: five transplanting transmission boxes 6 arranged at predetermined intervals in the left and right directions, a rotating box 7 that is rotatably supported on the right and left sides of the transplanting transmission box 6, transplanting arms 8 supported on both ends of the rotating box 7, five floating plates 9, and a seedling carrier platform 10, etc.

[0095] In the seedling transplanting device 5, while the seedling carrier 10 is driven by lateral feeding, the rotating box 7 is driven by rotation, and the transplanting arm 8 takes out the seedling from the lower part of the seedling carrier 10 and transplants it onto the field surface.

[0096] (Structure of the land preparation device)

[0097] like Figure 1 and Figure 8As shown, a land preparation device 11 for leveling the field surface is supported at the lower part of the front of the seedling transplanting device 5. The land preparation device 11 is equipped with a drive shaft 11a supported in a manner that allows it to rotate about an axis P1 in the left-right direction, and a plurality of land preparation bodies 11b assembled to the drive shaft 11a. The drive shaft 11a of the land preparation device 11... Figure 8 The counterclockwise rotation is driven, thereby leveling the field surface through the leveling body 11b of the leveling device 11.

[0098] (Structure of fertilizer application device and pesticide dispensing device)

[0099] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, a fertilization device 12 is supported between the rear of the machine frame 30 and the seedling transplanting device 5. The fertilization device 12 is equipped with a hopper 13, a feeding part 14, a blower 15, a furrow opener 16, and a hose 17.

[0100] In the fertilization device 12, a fertilizer storage hopper 13 and a delivery section 14 are provided on the upper rear part of the body frame 30, and a blower 15 is provided on the left lateral side of the delivery section 14. A furrow opener 16 is assembled on the float 9, and a hose 17 is connected between the delivery section 14 and the furrow opener 16.

[0101] In the fertilization device 12, the fertilizer in the hopper 13 is sent out through the delivery part 14, and supplied to the furrow opener 16 through the conveying air of the blower 15 and the hose 17. While the furrow opener 16 forms a furrow on the field surface, fertilizer is supplied from the furrow opener 16 to the furrow on the field surface.

[0102] A pesticide dispensing device 28 is supported on a support frame 29 connected to the central planting transmission box 6. Herbicides and other pesticides are dispensed from the pesticide dispensing device 28 onto the field surface behind the seedling planting device 5.

[0103] (Drive system for the front and rear wheels)

[0104] like Figure 1 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 As shown, the right and left side frames 30, which are square tubular in shape, are arranged along the front-rear direction, and the gearbox 18 is connected to the front of the frame 30. A support frame 19 is connected to the front of the gearbox 18, and the engine 20 is supported on the support frame 19.

[0105] like Figure 6 As shown, front wheel support boxes 21 are connected to the right and left sides of the gearbox 18, and the right and left front wheels 1 are steerably supported on the front wheel support boxes 21. A rear axle box 22 is supported at the rear of the body frame 30, and the right and left rear wheels 2 are supported on the rear axle box 22.

[0106] A hydrostatic continuously variable transmission (CVT) 23 is connected to the lateral side of the gearbox 18. Power from the engine 20 is transmitted to the CVT 23 via a drive belt 24. Power from the CVT 23 is transmitted to a secondary transmission (not shown) inside the gearbox 18, and then to the right and left front wheels 1 via a drive shaft (not shown) inside the front wheel differential (not shown) and the front wheel support box 21.

[0107] like Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 6 As shown, an output shaft 25 is supported rearward at the rear of the gearbox 18. Power branching off from the auxiliary transmission is transmitted from the output shaft 25 via a universal joint 26 and a drive shaft 27 to the input shaft 31 of the rear axle box 22, and then to the right and left rear wheels 2 as described later in (Rear Axle Box Drivetrain).

[0108] (Structure of front wheel steering operation)

[0109] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the control handle 32 is located at the front of the machine frame 30, and the gear shift lever 37 is located at the left horizontal part of the control handle 32. The continuously variable transmission device 23 is continuously operated by the gear shift lever 37 to the neutral stop position, the forward side, and the reverse side.

[0110] The longitudinal wall-shaped support members 38 on the right and left sides are located at the rear of the right and left sides of the machine frame 30. The driver's seat 33, the hopper 13 of the fertilizer applicator 12, and the delivery part 14 (refer to the aforementioned (structure of fertilizer applicator and pesticide dispensing device)) are supported on the upper part of the support members 38. The floor 34 where the driver can stand or sit in the driver's seat 33 and place his feet is located at a lower position between the control handle 32 and the driver's seat 33.

[0111] like Figure 6 As shown, the steering member 35, operated by the control handle 32, is supported on the lower part of the gearbox 18 in a manner that allows it to swing about an axis P2 along the vertical direction. A tie rod 36 connects the steering member 35 to the right and left front wheels 1. By operating the control handle 32, the steering member 35 is steered between the straight position N and the right steering limit R2 and the left steering limit L2, and the steering operation of the front wheels 1 is performed by operating the control handle 32.

[0112] (Rear axle box support structure)

[0113] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, it is provided with upper suspension links 41 on the right and left sides, lower suspension links 42 on the right and left sides, and lateral links 43.

[0114] When viewed from the side, the axle 1a of the front wheel 1 of the fuselage frame 30 on the right and left sides (see reference) Figure 6 ) and the axle 2a of the rear wheel 2 (refer to Figure 6 The section between the two is connected by brackets 39 on the right and left sides. The upper suspension links 41 on the right and left sides are supported on the brackets 39 in such a way that they can swing up and down about the axis P3 along the left and right direction and extend rearward from the axis P3.

[0115] When viewed from the side, the axle 1a of the front wheel 1 of the fuselage frame 30 on the right and left sides (see reference) Figure 6 ) and the axle 2a of the rear wheel 2 (refer to Figure 6 A bracket 40 is connected between the parts of the bracket 39 and the gearbox 18. The bracket 40 is located on the front side of the bracket 39. The bracket 40 is also connected to the gearbox 18. The right and left frames 65 are connected to the right and left parts of the bracket 40 and the rear of the right and left body frames 30. The right and left lower suspension links 42 are supported on the bracket 40 and extend rearward from the axis P4 in a manner that allows them to swing up and down about the axis P4 in the left-right direction.

[0116] Right and left support brackets 44 are connected to the right and left sides of the front part of the rear axle box 22. The rear parts of the upper suspension links 41 on the right and left sides are swayably supported on the upper parts of the right and left support brackets 44. The rear parts of the lower suspension links 42 on the right and left sides are swayably supported on the lower parts of the right and left support brackets 44.

[0117] The lateral link 43 is located behind the rear axle box 22 and is swayably connected between the rear of the left side of the frame 30 and the right side of the rear of the rear axle box 22.

[0118] Right and left support brackets 45 are connected to the right and left sides of the front part of the rear axle box 22, and spring seat portions 46 are connected to the rear parts of the right and left body frames 30. Suspension springs 47 on the right and left sides are assembled between the support brackets 45 and the spring seat portions 46, and the rear axle box 22 is supported on the body frame 30 by the suspension springs 47.

[0119] As described above, the five-link suspension mechanism consists of the upper suspension links 41 on the right and left sides, the lower suspension links 42 on the right and left sides, the lateral link 43, and the suspension springs 47 on the right and left sides.

[0120] (Rear axle box transmission system)

[0121] like Figure 6 As shown, inside the rear axle box 22, the drive shaft 48 is supported in the left-right direction, and the bevel gear 48a connected to the drive shaft 48 meshes with the bevel gear 31a connected to the input shaft 31.

[0122] A right-side clutch 51 and a left-side clutch 52 are provided on the right and left sides of the drive shaft 48, respectively. The right-side and left-side clutches 51 and 52 are configured as friction multi-plate clutches and are pushed into the transmission state by internal springs (not shown). A gear-type right-side reduction mechanism 49 is provided between the right-side clutch 51 and the axle 2a of the right rear wheel 2, and a gear-type left-side reduction mechanism 49 is provided between the left-side clutch 52 and the axle 2a of the left rear wheel 2.

[0123] Through the above structure, the power transmitted to the input shaft 31 is transmitted to the right rear wheel 2 via the drive shaft 48, the right side clutch 51 and the right side reduction mechanism 49, and to the left rear wheel 2 via the drive shaft 48, the left side clutch 52 and the left side reduction mechanism 49.

[0124] (Overview of the operating systems for the right and left side clutches)

[0125] like Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 As shown, a side clutch operating unit 50 is provided to operate the right and left side clutches 51 and 52 to a driving state and a disengaged state, respectively. The side clutch operating unit 50 includes a drive unit 54, a right-side connecting mechanism 55, and a left-side connecting mechanism 56.

[0126] The connecting mechanism 55 on the right is connected between the drive unit 54 and the side clutch 51 on the right, so as to transmit the action of the drive unit 54 to the side clutch 51 on the right and operate the side clutch 51 on the right to the transmission state and the disengagement state.

[0127] The left-side coupling mechanism 56 is connected between the drive unit 54 and the left-side side clutch 52 to transmit the action of the drive unit 54 to the left-side side clutch 52 and operate the left-side side clutch 51 to the transmission state and the disengagement state.

[0128] (Structure of the drive unit in the side clutch operating unit)

[0129] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, a support frame 53 is connected to the rear of the body frame 30 on the left side, and the drive unit 54 is supported on the support frame 53.

[0130] like Figures 3-7 As shown, the support member 57 is connected to the support frame 53. The sector-shaped operating gear 58 (equivalent to a reciprocating motion member) is supported on the support member 57 in a manner that allows it to reciprocate about an axis P5 along the left-right direction. An angle sensor 59, which detects the operating angle of the operating gear 58, is mounted on the support member 57.

[0131] A gear mechanism 63 with a pinion 63a is mounted on a support member 57, and the pinion 63a of the gear mechanism 63 meshes with an operating gear 58. An electric motor 64 (equivalent to an actuator) that drives the gear mechanism 63 is mounted on the gear mechanism 63. The operating gear 58 is reciprocated around the axis P5 by the electric motor 64 via the gear mechanism 63.

[0132] Therefore, the drive unit 54 is positioned rearward of the right and left relay members 60 and 70 described later in the (structure of the right and left connecting mechanisms in the side clutch operating unit) and higher than the rear axle box 22. When viewed from the side, the drive unit 54 is positioned in the space between the rear axle box 22 and the driver's seat 33; when viewed from above, it is positioned on the right and left support members 38 (see reference 38). Figure 1 The space between ).

[0133] (The structure of the right and left connecting mechanisms in the side clutch operating section)

[0134] like Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 As shown, the right-side connecting mechanism 55 has a right-side relay member 60, a right-side first connecting member 61, and a right-side second connecting member 62. The left-side connecting mechanism 56 has a left-side relay member 70, a left-side first connecting member 71, and a left-side second connecting member 72.

[0135] like Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 As shown, right and left brackets 66 are connected to the front of the right and left frames 65, and the relay shaft 67 is supported on the right and left brackets 66. The right relay member 60 and the left relay member 70 are supported on the relay shaft 67 in a manner that allows them to swing independently about an axis P6 along the left and right direction.

[0136] Therefore, the relay components 60 and 70 on the right and left sides are positioned on the axle 1a of the front wheel 1 when viewed from the side (see reference). Figure 6 ) and the axle 2a of the rear wheel 2 (refer to Figure 6 Between, when viewed from above, between the suspension links 41 and 42 on the right and left sides, and between the fuselage frames 30 on the right and left sides.

[0137] The right-side relay member 60 is constructed by connecting an upward-facing arm 60b and a downward-facing arm 60c to a boss portion 60a that is rotatably mounted on a relay shaft 67. The left-side relay member 70 is constructed by connecting an upward-facing arm 70b and a downward-facing arm 70c to a boss portion 70a that is rotatably mounted on a relay shaft 67.

[0138] The first connecting member 61 on the right side is connected between the operating gear 58 of the drive unit 54 and the arm 60b of the relay member 60 on the right side. The first connecting member 71 on the left side is connected between the operating gear 58 of the drive unit 54 and the arm 70b of the relay member 70 on the left side.

[0139] like Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 7 As shown, the right-side operating part 73 and the left-side operating part 74, which can operate the right and left-side side clutches 51 and 52 to the transmission state and the disengagement state, are supported downward on the rear axle box 22 in a manner that allows them to swing about the axis P7 along the vertical direction.

[0140] The front part of the second connecting member 62 on the right is connected to the arm 60c of the relay member 60 on the right. A connecting part 62a is connected to the rear part of the second connecting member 62 on the right. The connecting part 62a has an elongated connecting hole 62b (corresponding to the fusion part on the right). An arm 73a is connected to the operating part 73 on the right. A pin 73b connected to the arm 73a is inserted into the connecting hole 62b of the second connecting member 62 on the right. The second connecting member 62 on the right is connected to the side clutch 51 on the right via the operating part 73 on the right.

[0141] The front part of the second connecting member 72 on the left is connected to the arm 70c of the relay member 70 on the left. A connecting part 72a is connected to the rear part of the second connecting member 72 on the left. The connecting part 72a has an elongated connecting hole 72b (corresponding to the fusion part on the left). An arm 74a is connected to the operating part 74 on the left. A pin 74b connected to the arm 74a is inserted into the connecting hole 72b of the second connecting member 72 on the left. The second connecting member 72 on the left is connected to the side clutch 52 on the left via the operating part 74 on the left.

[0142] Therefore, as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the first connecting members 61 and 71 on the right and left sides are arranged to extend obliquely upward and backward from the relay members 60 and 70 on the right and left sides when viewed from the side, and are arranged to intersect with the drive shaft 27, the body frame 30 on the right and left sides, and the upper suspension link 41 on the right and left sides when viewed from the side.

[0143] When viewed from above, the first connecting members 61 and 71 on the right and left sides are positioned between the second connecting members 62 and 72 on the right and left sides, between the upper suspension links 41 on the right and left sides, between the lower suspension links 42 on the right and left sides, and between the body frames 30 on the right and left sides.

[0144] The second connecting members 62 and 72 on the right and left sides are arranged along the lower suspension links 42 on the right and left sides when viewed from the side, and are positioned below the lower suspension links 42 on the right and left sides. The second connecting members 62 and 72 on the right and left sides are arranged to intersect with the lower suspension links 42 on the right and left sides when viewed from above, and are also arranged to intersect with the fuselage frame 30 on the right and left sides when viewed from above.

[0145] (Structure of the control system)

[0146] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the steering angle sensor 68 (equivalent to the steering angle detection unit) is supported on the frame 65 (see reference). Figure 3 and Figure 4 The steering angle sensor 68 is positioned between the gearbox 18 and the relay components 60 and 70 on the right and left sides when viewed from above and from the side.

[0147] A connecting rod 69 is connected between the steering component 35 and the steering angle sensor 68. The steering angle sensor 68 can detect the steering angle (orientation) of the front wheel 1 via the steering component 35 and the connecting rod 69. The control device 80 is supported on the body frame 30. The detection values ​​of the steering angle sensor 68 and the angle sensor 59 are input to the control device 80.

[0148] Based on the detection values ​​of the steering angle sensor 68 and the angle sensor 59, the control device 80 actuates the electric motor 64 of the side clutch operating unit 50 (drive unit 54) as described later in (operating state of the side clutch operating unit in straight driving state), (operating state of the side clutch operating unit in right turning state), and (operating state of the side clutch operating unit in left turning state). The electric motor 64 operates the operating gear 58 to the neutral position A1, one side operating position A2, and the other side operating position A3.

[0149] (Operating status of the side clutch operating unit in straight-line driving mode)

[0150] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, for the steering angle (direction) of the front wheel 1, a right-side setting angle R1 is set between the straight-ahead position N and the right-side steering limit R2. A left-side setting angle L1 is set between the straight-ahead position N and the left-side steering limit L2. The right-side setting angle R1 and the left-side setting angle L1 are the same value.

[0151] When the steering angle (orientation) of the current wheel 1 is within the range of a set angle R1 from the straight-ahead position N to the right and a set angle L1 from the straight-ahead position N to the left, the ride-on rice transplanter is in a roughly straight-ahead state. In this state, if... Figure 7 As shown, the operating gear 58 is operated to the neutral position A1 by the electric motor 64.

[0152] When the operating gear 58 is operated to the neutral position A1, the operating parts 73 and 74 on the right and left sides are operated to the transmission position ON, and the side clutches 51 and 52 on the right and left sides are operated to the transmission state. In this state, the pins 73b and 74b of the operating parts 73 and 74 on the right and left sides are located at the rear ends of the connecting holes 62b and 72b of the second connecting members 62 and 72 on the right and left sides.

[0153] (Operating status of the side clutch operating unit during right turn)

[0154] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, when the current wheel 1 passes the set angle R1 on the right and is turned to the right (when the turning angle (or orientation) of the current wheel 1 is within the range between the set angle R1 on the right and the turning limit R2 on the right), the riding-type rice transplanter is in a right-turn state. In this state, the operating gear 58 is reciprocated between the neutral position A1 and the side operating position A2 by the electric motor 64.

[0155] When the operating gear 58 is operated from the neutral position A1 to the side operating position A2, the first connecting member 61 on the right is pulled towards the operating gear 58 (referencing direction B11), and the relay member 60 on the right moves towards... Figure 7 The second connecting member 62 on the right side is pulled to the relay member 60 on the right side (refer to direction B11) as it swings counterclockwise. Through the connecting part 62a of the second connecting member 62 on the right side, the operating part 73 on the right side is operated to the off position OFF, and the side clutch 51 on the right side is operated to the off state.

[0156] When the operating gear 58 is operated from the side operating position A2 to the neutral position A1, the first connecting member 61 on the right is pushed towards the relay member 60 on the right (refer to direction B12), and the relay member 60 on the right moves towards... Figure 7 The device swings clockwise, pushing the second connecting member 62 on the right to the operating part 73 on the right (refer to direction B12). The side clutch 51 on the right is forced into the transmission state (refer to the aforementioned (transmission system of the rear axle box)), thereby operating the operating part 73 on the right to the transmission position ON, and operating the side clutch 51 on the right to the transmission state.

[0157] When the operating gear 58 is operated from the neutral position A1 to the lateral operating position A2, the first connecting member 71 on the left is pushed towards the relay member 70 on the left (refer to direction B22), and the relay member 70 on the left moves towards... Figure 7The second connecting member 72 on the left side is pushed to the operating part 74 on the left side (refer to direction B22) as it swings counterclockwise.

[0158] When the operating gear 58 is operated from the side operating position A2 to the neutral position A1, the first connecting member 71 on the left is pulled towards the operating gear 58 (referencing direction B21), and the relay member 70 on the left moves towards... Figure 7 The second connecting member 72 on the left is pulled to the relay member 70 on the left (reference direction B21) as it swings clockwise.

[0159] In this situation, due to the accommodating effect of the connecting hole 72b of the second connecting member 72 on the left, the movement of the operating gear 58 from the neutral position A1 to the side operating position A2 will not be transmitted to the operating part 74 on the left (the side clutch 52 on the left). The connecting part 72a of the second connecting member 72 on the left is relative to the operating part 74 on the left. Figure 7 The position indicated by the solid line alternates between the position indicated by the dashed line.

[0160] Therefore, the left operating unit 74 will not be operated to the off position OFF, and the left side clutch 52 will be forced into the transmission state (refer to the aforementioned (transmission system of the rear axle box)). Thus, the left side clutch 52 is maintained in the transmission state, and the left operating unit 74 is maintained in the transmission position ON.

[0161] As described above, the operating gear 58 is reciprocated between the neutral position A1 and the side operating position A2 by the electric motor 64, thereby the left side clutch 52 is operated to (maintained in) the transmission state while the right side clutch 51 is alternately operated to the transmission state and the disengagement state.

[0162] (Operating status of the side clutch operating unit during left turn)

[0163] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, when the current wheel 1 passes the set angle L1 on the left and is turned to the left (when the turning angle (or direction) of the current wheel 1 is within the range between the set angle L1 on the left and the turning limit L2 on the left), the riding-type rice transplanter is in a left-turn state. In this state, the operating gear 58 is reciprocated between the neutral position A1 and the other operating position A3 by the electric motor 64.

[0164] When the operating gear 58 is operated from the neutral position A1 to the other operating position A3, the first connecting member 71 on the left is pulled towards the operating gear 58 (referencing direction B21), and the relay member 70 on the left moves towards... Figure 7Swinging clockwise, the second connecting member 72 on the left is pulled to the relay member 70 on the right (refer to direction B21). Through the connecting portion 72a of the second connecting member 72 on the left, the operating portion 74 on the left is operated to the off position OFF, and the side clutch 52 on the left is operated to the off state.

[0165] When the operating gear 58 is operated from the other operating position A3 to the neutral position A1, the first connecting member 71 on the left is pushed towards the relay member 70 on the left (refer to direction B22), and the relay member 70 on the left moves towards... Figure 7 The second connecting member 72 on the left is pushed to the operating part 74 on the left (refer to direction B22) as it swings counterclockwise. The side clutch 52 on the left is forced into the transmission state (refer to the aforementioned (transmission system of the rear axle box)), thereby operating the operating part 74 on the left to the transmission position ON, and operating the side clutch 52 on the left to the transmission state.

[0166] When the operating gear 58 is operated from the neutral position A1 to the other operating position A3, the first connecting member 61 on the right is pushed towards the relay member 60 on the right (refer to direction B12), and the relay member 60 on the right moves towards... Figure 7 The second connecting member 62 on the right side is pushed to the operating part 73 on the right side (refer to direction B12) as it swings clockwise.

[0167] When the operating gear 58 is operated from the other operating position A3 to the neutral position A1, the first connecting member 61 on the right is pulled towards the operating gear 58 (referencing direction B11), and the relay member 60 on the right moves towards... Figure 7 The second connecting member 62 on the right side is pulled to the relay member 60 on the right side (reference direction B11) as it swings counterclockwise.

[0168] In this situation, due to the accommodating effect of the connecting hole 62b of the second connecting member 62 on the right, the movement of the operating gear 58 from the neutral position A1 to the other operating position A3 will not be transmitted to the operating part 73 on the right (the side clutch 51 on the right). The connecting part 62a of the second connecting member 62 on the right is relative to the operating part 73 on the right. Figure 7 The position indicated by the solid line alternates between the position indicated by the dashed line.

[0169] Therefore, the right-side operating unit 73 will not be operated to the off position OFF, and the right-side side clutch 51 will be forced into the transmission state (refer to the aforementioned (transmission system of the rear axle box)). Thus, the right-side side clutch 51 is maintained in the transmission state, and the right-side operating unit 73 is maintained in the transmission position ON.

[0170] As described above, the operating gear 58 is reciprocated between the neutral position A1 and the other operating position A3 by the electric motor 64, thereby the right side clutch 51 is operated to (maintained in) the transmission state while the left side clutch 52 is alternately operated to the transmission state and the disengagement state.

[0171] (Transmission system to the land preparation device)

[0172] like Figure 6 As shown, inside the rear axle box 22, the output shaft 75 is supported rearward, and the bevel gear 75a connected to the output shaft 75 meshes with the bevel gear 48a of the drive shaft 48. A grounding clutch 76 is provided on the output shaft 75.

[0173] like Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 6 As shown, the output box 77 is connected to the rear of the rear axle box 22, and the output box 78 is supported on the output box 77 in a manner that allows it to swing up and down about the axis P8 along the left and right direction.

[0174] The power of the grounding clutch 76 is transmitted to the rearward output shaft 79 of the output box 78 via the bevel gear mechanism (not shown) inside the output box 77, the drive shaft (not shown) arranged concentrically with the shaft P8 in the output boxes 77 and 78, and the bevel gear mechanism (not shown) inside the output box 78.

[0175] like Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, in the grounding device 11, the drive housing 81 is mounted to the left and right center portions of the drive shaft 11a of the grounding device 11 via bearings (not shown). The input shaft 82 is supported forward on the drive housing 81, and inside the drive housing 81, a bevel gear (not shown) connected to the input shaft 82 meshes with a bevel gear (not shown) connected to the drive shaft 11a of the grounding device 11. A telescopic drive shaft 83 is connected between the output shaft 79 and the input shaft 82 via a universal joint 84.

[0176] Through the above structure, the power of the drive shaft 48 is transmitted to the input shaft 82 via the output shaft 75, the grounding clutch 76, the output shaft 79, and the drive shaft 83. The drive shaft 11a of the grounding device 11 drives the input shaft 82. Figure 8 It is driven by rotation in a counterclockwise direction.

[0177] (Operating system of the ground-level clutch)

[0178] like Figure 4 , Figure 8 , Figure 9As shown, the linkage mechanism 3 has upper connecting rods 3a on the right and left sides, lower connecting rods 3b on the right and left sides, and a longitudinal connecting rod 3c connected to the rear of the upper connecting rods 3a and lower connecting rods 3b. The seedling planting device 5 is supported on the longitudinal connecting rod 3c. A connecting member 85, which is groove-shaped when viewed from above, is connected to the rear end of the hydraulic cylinder 4. The connecting member 85 is connected to the connection part between the lower connecting rod 3b and the longitudinal connecting rod 3c of the linkage mechanism 3.

[0179] like Figure 4 and Figure 8 As shown, an operating arm 86 is provided to operate the ground clutch 76 to the transmission state and the disengagement state, and a connecting rod 87 is connected between the upper connecting rod 3a of the linkage mechanism 3 and the operating arm 86.

[0180] like Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, an operating component 88 is connected to the output box 78, and a connecting rod 89 is connected between the lower connecting rod 3b of the linkage mechanism 3 and the operating component 88. An operating component 90 is connected to the drive box 81, and a connecting rod 91 is connected between the connecting component 85 and the operating component 90.

[0181] Figure 1 and Figure 8 The state shown is that the seedling transplanting device 5 has been lowered by the linkage mechanism 3 and the hydraulic cylinder 4. In this state, the connecting rod 87 is lowered, and the grounding clutch 76 is operated to the transmission state by the operating arm 86.

[0182] With the seedling transplanting device 5 in the lowered state, the connecting rod 89 is lowered, and the output box 78 and output shaft 79 face downwards at an angle. The connecting rod 91 is raised, and the drive box 81 and input shaft 82 face horizontally or upwards at an angle. As a result, the bending at the universal joint 84 is minimized, and the power from the output shaft 79 is smoothly transmitted to the input shaft 82 via the drive shaft 83 and universal joint 84.

[0183] Figure 10 The state shown is that the seedling transplanting device 5 has been raised by the linkage mechanism 3 and the hydraulic cylinder 4. In this state, the connecting rod 87 is raised, the land-leveling clutch 76 is operated to the disengaged state by the operating arm 86, and the land-leveling device 11 stops.

[0184] With the seedling transplanting device 5 in the raised position, the connecting rod 89 is also raised, and the output box 78 and output shaft 79 are oriented diagonally upwards. The connecting rod 91 is lowered, and the drive box 81 and input shaft 82 are oriented diagonally downwards. As a result, bending at the universal joint 84 is minimized.

[0185] (First alternative embodiment of the invention)

[0186] Alternatively, a three-link suspension mechanism with right and left suspension links and a lateral link can be used instead of a five-link suspension mechanism.

[0187] Alternatively, the suspension mechanism can be removed and the rear axle box 22 can be supported on the body frame 30 in a manner that allows it to sway about an axis in the longitudinal direction. Alternatively, the rear axle box 22 can be connected to the body frame 30 in a manner that prevents it from moving up and down or swaying.

[0188] (Second alternative embodiment of the invention)

[0189] Alternatively, the fusion section on the right can be located at the connection part between the operating gear 58 and the first connecting member 61 on the right, the connection part between the first connecting member 61 on the right and the relay member 60 on the right, and the connection part between the second connecting member 62 on the right and the relay member 60 on the right.

[0190] Alternatively, the fusion section on the left can be located at the connection part between the operating gear 58 and the first connecting member 71 on the left, the connection part between the first connecting member 71 on the left and the relay member 70 on the left, and the connection part between the second connecting member 72 on the left and the relay member 70 on the left.

[0191] (Third alternative embodiment of the invention)

[0192] Alternatively, in the side clutch operating unit 50, the right and left drive units 54 can be directly mounted to the rear axle box 22. According to this configuration, the right-side coupling mechanism 55, connecting the right-side drive unit 54 and the right-side side clutch 51, is mounted to the rear axle box 22, and the left-side coupling mechanism 56, connecting the left-side drive unit 54 and the left-side side clutch 52, is mounted to the rear axle box 22.

[0193] According to this structure, the right and left side clutches 51 and 52 are operated to the transmission state and the disengagement state independently of each other, so there is no need for a fusion section.

[0194] Industrial availability

[0195] This invention is applicable not only to ride-on rice transplanters, but also to ride-on direct seeders that supply seeds to the field and ride-on management machines that supply pesticides to the field.

Claims

1. A paddy field operation machine, characterized in that, have: The front wheels on the right and left sides can be steered and driven by rotation; The rear wheels on the right and left sides; The right-side clutch can transmit and disconnect power to the right-side rear wheel; The left-side clutch can transmit and disconnect power to the left-side rear wheel; A steering angle detection unit detects the orientation of the front wheels; as well as The side clutch operating unit is capable of operating the right and left side clutches to the transmission and disengagement states based on the detection of the steering angle detection unit. When the front wheel is within a range of predetermined angles from the straight position to the right and left sides, the side clutch operating unit operates the right and left side clutches to the transmission state. When the front wheel passes the set angle on the right side and is turned to the right, the side clutch operating unit simultaneously operates the left side clutch to the transmission state while alternately and repeatedly operating the right side clutch to the transmission state and the disengagement state. When the front wheel passes the set angle on the left and is turned to the left, the side clutch operating unit simultaneously operates the right side clutch to the transmission state while alternately and repeatedly operating the left side clutch to the transmission state and the disengagement state. The side clutch operating unit includes: a drive unit; and a coupling mechanism that transmits the action of the drive unit to the right and left side clutches, and operates the right and left side clutches to a transmission state and a disengagement state, respectively. The drive unit has an actuator and a reciprocating motion member that is reciprocated by the actuator, and the reciprocating motion member is reciprocated by the actuator.

2. The paddy field operation machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, Features: a rear axle box supporting the right and left rear wheels, and housing the right and left side clutches. The connecting mechanism includes: a relay member disposed between the axle of the front wheel and the axle of the rear wheel when viewed from the side; and a first connecting member connected between the drive unit and the relay member. And a second connecting member, connected between the relay member and the right and left side clutches.

3. The paddy field operation machine according to claim 2, characterized in that, It includes: right and left suspension links, supported in a manner that allows them to swing up and down about an axis along the left-right direction, located between the axles of the front and rear wheels of the body frame when viewed from the side, extending rearward from the axis. The rear axle box is supported at the rear of the suspension link and is supported by the body frame via suspension springs. The relay component is positioned between the suspension links on the right and left sides when viewed from above.

4. The paddy field operation machine according to claim 3, characterized in that, The second connecting member is configured along the right and left suspension links when viewed from the side.

5. The paddy field operation machine according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that, The drive unit is positioned rearward of the relay component and higher than the rear axle box.

6. The paddy field operation machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The drive unit drives the reciprocating motion member back and forth between a neutral position and one side operating position via the actuator, and also drives the reciprocating motion member back and forth between the neutral position and the other side operating position via the actuator. The system includes: a coupling mechanism on the right side, connecting the reciprocating motion member and the right side side clutch; and a coupling mechanism on the left side, connecting the reciprocating motion member and the left side clutch. The right-side connecting mechanism has a right-side accommodating portion, which is configured such that when the reciprocating member is operated to the neutral position, the right-side side clutch is operated to the transmission state; when the reciprocating member is operated to one side operating position, the right-side side clutch is operated to the disengaged state; and even if the reciprocating member is operated to the other side operating position, the movement of the reciprocating member towards the other side operating position will not be transmitted to the right-side side clutch, thus maintaining the right-side side clutch in the transmission state. The left-side connecting mechanism has a left-side accommodating portion, which is configured such that when the reciprocating motion member is operated to the neutral position, the left-side side clutch is operated to the transmission state; when the reciprocating motion member is operated to the other side operating position, the left-side side clutch is operated to the disengaged state; and even if the reciprocating motion member is operated to the one-side operating position, the movement of the reciprocating motion member toward the one-side operating position will not be transmitted to the left-side side clutch, thus keeping the left-side side clutch in the transmission state.

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