Combine harvester

Abstract

A combine harvester of the present invention is provided with a threshing device that threshes the cut stalks, a storage portion (30) that stores the grains threshed by the threshing device, and a hopper (25) that feeds the grains threshed by the threshing device from a lateral direction toward an upper opening portion (35) of the storage portion (30), and a sensor for finding the amount of grains fed from the hopper (25) to the storage portion (30) is provided above the storage portion (30), characterized in that a first grain amount sensor (50) is provided at a place apart from the feeding action position (27) of the hopper (25), and a second grain amount sensor (54) is provided at a place close to the feeding action position (27) of the hopper (25).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a combine harvester capable of determining the amount of grain harvested. Background Technology

[0002] In the harvesting of grains such as soybeans and corn, combine harvesters are mostly used, which cut the stalks from the root and collect the grains. Inside such combine harvesters, there are threshing devices for threshing the cut stalks, storage sections for storing the threshed grains, and hoppers for transporting the threshed grains to designated locations and feeding them into the storage section.

[0003] For such combine harvesters, the following structure is known: a guide surface is provided to guide grains thrown from the hopper to a storage section, and a sensor is provided on the guide surface to determine the amount of grains fed into the storage section based on the impact value generated by the collision of the grains with the sensor (see, for example, Patent Document 1). It is envisioned that the grains are violently thrown from the hopper to a distance, thereby placing such a sensor at a location relatively far from the hopper.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 5947126 Summary of the Invention

[0007] However, the hopper has a deep, concave shape at the bottom and holds a large amount of grains inside. Therefore, even when the hopper begins feeding, the grains are not immediately removed. Only after a period of time has passed since the start of feeding, and the hopper has tilted, are the last grains ejected. Furthermore, initially, the grains are thrown further away and reach the sensor, but the grains remaining in the hopper are thrown downwards, avoiding collisions with the sensor and entering the storage compartment. The presence of these grains that do not collide with the sensor affects the accuracy of grain quantity measurement.

[0008] The present invention was made in view of the above circumstances, and its object is to provide a combine harvester capable of determining the amount of grain fed into the storage section with higher accuracy.

[0009] The combine harvester of the present invention includes: a threshing device for threshing cut ears of grain; a storage section for storing the grains threshed by the threshing device; and a hopper for feeding the grains threshed by the threshing device into the storage section from an opening laterally facing upwards. A sensor for determining the amount of grains fed from the hopper into the storage section is provided above the storage section. The present invention is characterized in that the sensor includes: a first grain quantity sensor located at a feeding operation position away from the hopper; and a second grain quantity sensor located near the feeding operation position of the hopper.

[0010] In this invention, not only is the first grain quantity sensor used to measure the grains thrown from the hopper to a distance, but the second grain quantity sensor is used to measure the grains thrown from the hopper downwards. Therefore, the amount of grains fed into the storage section can be determined with high accuracy. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1 This is a simplified schematic side view of a combine harvester.

[0012] Figure 2 This is a simplified schematic rear view of a combine harvester, and it is from... Figure 1 The image viewed from the right side.

[0013] Figure 3 It is a simplified schematic side view of a combine harvester, and it is from... Figure 1 The diagram is viewed from the opposite side.

[0014] Figure 4 This is a longitudinal sectional view of the upper part of the winnowing conveyor and the grain bin.

[0015] Figure 5 This is a simplified schematic top view of the winnowing conveyor and grain bins. The guide components are omitted from the diagram.

[0016] Figure 6 This is a simplified three-dimensional diagram of the area near the feeding inlet of the grain bin.

[0017] Figure 7 This is a rear view of the upper part of the winnowing conveyor and the upper part of the grain bin. That is, from... Figure 4 Observe from the opposite side Figure 4 The upper part of the image.

[0018] Figure 8 The upper section shows the signal output from the first grain quantity sensor, and the lower section shows the signal output from the pickup sensor. It is also a diagram of continuous collisions between grains and the first grain quantity sensor.

[0019] Figure 9The upper section shows the signal output from the first grain quantity sensor, and the lower section shows the signal output from the pickup sensor. The graph includes the time period when the grain does not collide with the first grain quantity sensor.

[0020] Figure 10 The upper section is an overlay diagram showing the signals output from the first and second grain quantity sensors. The middle section shows the signal output from the first grain quantity sensor. The lower section shows the signal output from the second grain quantity sensor.

[0021] Figure 11 It is a block diagram centered on the control unit.

[0022] Figure 12 This is a flowchart based on the grain quantity calculation process of the control unit.

[0023] Figure 13 This is a flowchart based on the correction value calculation and processing of the control unit.

[0024] Figure 14 This is a diagram showing the configuration of the sensors in the modified example, and a longitudinal sectional view of the upper part of the winnowing conveyor and the grain bin. Detailed Implementation

[0025] The combine harvester of the embodiments described herein is based on the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, the following embodiments are examples, and the scope of the invention is not limited thereto.

[0026] First, based on Figures 1-3 The overall structure of the combine harvester is explained.

[0027] exist Figures 1-3 In the combine harvester shown, the cutting section 10, which cuts the stalks, is positioned in front of the direction of travel, and the feeding section 11, which conveys the stalks to the rear, is positioned behind the cutting section 10. Behind the feeding section 11, a threshing device 12 is positioned to thresh the stalks conveyed from the feeding section 11.

[0028] Below the threshing device 12 is a screening machine 13 that filters and extracts grains from the grains and straw scraps obtained through threshing. Additionally, as... Figure 2 As shown, a spiral conveyor 14 is arranged below the screening machine 13 to move the grains screened by the screening machine 13 laterally. Furthermore, the harvesting section 10, the feeding section 11, the threshing device 12, the screening machine 13, and the conveyor 14 are driven by power from an engine (not shown) of the combine harvester. An engine speed sensor 63 (see reference 63) is provided near the engine's output shaft to measure the engine's rotational speed. Figure 11 ).

[0029] In addition, such as Figure 2 As shown, the winnowing conveyor 20 extends upward from the end of the conveyor 14. Furthermore, a grain storage bin 30, serving as a grain storage section, is arranged adjacent to the winnowing conveyor 20. A vertically movable hopper 25 (see reference 1) is provided on the winnowing conveyor 20. Figure 4 The hopper 25 carries the grains that have reached the end of the conveyor 14 upwards and feeds them into the grain bin 30.

[0030] like Figure 3 As shown, a spiral conveyor 15 is arranged below the grain bin 30, which moves the grains laterally. A transfer box 19 is provided at the end of the conveyor 15, and a grain discharge device 16 extends upward from the transfer box 19. The grain discharge device 16 is constructed such that multiple hoppers connected by a chain transport the grains arriving at the end of the conveyor 15 upward.

[0031] A long, cylindrical conveyor-type conveyor 18 is connected to the upper end of the grain discharge device 16 via a relay conveyor 17. The grains stored in the grain bin 30 are transported by the discharge conveyor 15, the grain discharge device 16, and the relay conveyor 17, and discharged from the conveyor-type conveyor 18 to a container or the like outside the combine harvester.

[0032] like Figure 1 As shown, a driver's cab 60 is provided behind the cutting section 10 for the driver to sit in. An instrument panel (not shown) is provided inside the driver's cab 60. A cutting switch 61 (see reference 10) is provided on this instrument panel for starting or stopping the cutting and threshing process. Figure 11 ), display unit 62 (refer to) for displaying information to the driver Figure 11 The display unit 62 also serves as an operation panel for selecting crops to be harvested, etc.

[0033] Next, based on Figures 4-6 The structure of the grain winnowing conveyor 20 to the grain bin 30 is described.

[0034] like Figure 4 As shown, the grain winnowing conveyor 20 includes: a winnowing cylinder 21 that is longer in the vertical direction; and sprockets 22 and 23, which are disposed near the lower end and upper end of the winnowing cylinder 21, respectively. The upper end of the winnowing cylinder 21 is open, and the upper sprocket 23 is disposed above the opening 43. Furthermore, as part of the grain winnowing conveyor 20, an annular chain 24 is wound around the upper and lower sprockets 22 and 23.

[0035] The lower sprocket 22 is connected to the rotating shaft of the screw conveyor 14. Therefore, the lower sprocket 22 rotates synchronously with the rotation of the screw conveyor 14. As the lower sprocket 22 rotates, the upper sprocket 23 rotates passively, and the chain 24 moves between the upper and lower sprockets 22 and 23.

[0036] Multiple (e.g., 40) hoppers 25 are arranged at equal intervals with almost no gaps on the chain 24. However, two hoppers 25 are removed consecutively at one point within one loop of the chain 24. This creates a hopper-free section 29 at one point within one loop of the chain 24, where no hoppers 25 are present. The distance of the hopper-free section 29 is (…). Figure 4 The distance represented by L is the distance corresponding to the two hoppers 25. The hopper 25 is a concave part with an opening 32 and a deep bottom, which can hold grains inside.

[0037] The hopper 25, connected to the chain 24, rotates in sync with the rotation of the chain 24. The opening 32 of the hopper 25 faces the direction of rotation of the chain 24. As described above, the conveyor 14 is driven by power from the engine, and the lower sprocket 22 rotates synchronously with the rotation of the conveyor 14. Therefore, the rotation speed of the chain 24 and the hopper 25 is affected by the engine speed.

[0038] A receiving section 26 is located below the lower sprocket 22, where grains transported by the conveyor 14 arrive. This receiving section 26 is also the location where the hopper 25 scoops up the grains. On the other hand, the area above the upper sprocket 23 is the location where the hopper 25, after rising, turns back to descend.

[0039] In this type of winnowing conveyor 20, the hopper 25 scoops up grains at the receiving section 26 and transports the grains as it rises. Furthermore, when the hopper 25 reverses from the rising direction to the descending direction above the upper sprocket 23, it throws grains towards the grain bin 30. The position where the hopper 25 throws grains is designated as the feeding operation position 27. The feeding operation position 27 extends from the position where the hopper 25 begins throwing grains (e.g., the position where the hopper 25 reaches the top of the sprocket 23) to the position where the hopper 25 ends throwing grains (e.g., the position where the velocity vector of the hopper 25 is directed towards the top of the boundary wall 45 that separates the winnowing conveyor 20 and the grain bin 30). The empty hopper 25 descends and scoops up grains again at the receiving section 26. This operation is repeated.

[0040] Furthermore, when the hopperless zone 29, where hopper 25 is not present, passes through the feeding position 27, no grains are fed toward the grain bin 30. The hopperless zone 29 is set up to specifically create a time during which grains are not fed using hopper 25 even when chain 24 is in motion, thereby allowing for the calculation of the zero-point correction value described later.

[0041] like Figure 5 As shown, the rotation axis of the upper sprocket 23, namely shaft 70, extends to the outside of the side wall 42. A first pulley 71 is provided at the extended end, and a detection sprocket 73 is provided at the end of shaft 70. If the upper sprocket 23 rotates, the first pulley 71 and the detection sprocket 73 also rotate about shaft 70.

[0042] like Figure 7 As shown, multiple peaks 74 and multiple valleys are formed on the outer periphery of the detection sprocket 73. Furthermore, a pickup sensor 28 is positioned near the outer periphery of the detection sprocket 73. According to this structure, if the sprocket 23 rotates, the detection sprocket 73 also rotates, causing the peaks 74 of the detection sprocket 73 to pass in front of the pickup sensor 28.

[0043] When the peak 74 of the detection sprocket 73 passes in front of the pickup sensor 28, the pickup sensor 28 detects the peak 74. Furthermore, the pickup sensor 28 outputs a pulse signal each time it detects the peak 74. The peaks 74 are arranged in a ratio of three to the rotation angle of the sprocket 23 when one hopper 25 passes through the feeding position 27. That is, the peaks 74 are arranged such that the pickup sensor 28 outputs three pulse signals during one grain feeding cycle from the hopper 25.

[0044] also, Figure 7 The detection sprocket 73 shown has nine peaks 74. In this case, during one revolution of the detection sprocket 73, three hoppers 25 pass through the feeding position 27.

[0045] like Figure 4 As shown, a grain bin 30 is provided adjacent to the winnowing conveyor 20. The side wall of the winnowing cylinder 21 of the winnowing conveyor 20 on the grain bin 30 side is integrated with the side wall of the grain bin 30 on the winnowing conveyor 20 side, forming a wall portion, namely a boundary wall 45, that separates the winnowing conveyor 20 and the grain bin 30.

[0046] An upward-opening opening is formed at the top of the grain bin 30. This opening is the inlet for grains to enter the grain bin 30. Hereinafter, this opening will be referred to as the "feed inlet 35". The feed inlet 35 is located at an angle downward when viewed from the feeding position 27 of the hopper 25. A leveling plate 31 is provided directly below the feed inlet 35 of the grain bin 30. The leveling plate 31 has: a plurality of blades 33 with the vertical direction as the axis of rotation; and a drive box 34 for rotating the blades 33.

[0047] The drive housing 34 houses two meshing bevel gears (not shown). Furthermore, the rotation shaft of one bevel gear is connected to the rotation shaft 75 of the blade 33. Additionally, the rotation shaft 76 of the other bevel gear... Figure 5 It extends to the outer side of the sidewall 42 as shown. Furthermore, a second pulley 77 is provided at the extended destination of the rotating shaft 76.

[0048] like Figure 7 As shown, a third pulley 78 is also provided on the outer side of the side wall 42. The rotation axes of the first pulley 71, the second pulley 77, and the third pulley 78 are parallel. Moreover, a belt 72 is wound around these pulleys 71, 77, and 78.

[0049] Because of this structure, if the upper sprocket 23 and the first pulley 71 rotate, the belt 72 will rotate, causing the second pulley 77 and the third pulley 78 to also rotate. If the second pulley 77 and its rotating shaft 76 rotate, the rotating shaft 75 and the blade 33 will rotate by means of the bevel gear in the drive housing 34.

[0050] The grains fed into the grain bin 30 are then moved laterally (e.g., by means of the blades 33 of the rotating leveling disc 31) using the rotating leveling disc 31. Figure 4 It diffuses in a direction perpendicular to the paper surface, thereby dispersing evenly within the grain bin 30.

[0051] A push-button switch 40 is located inside the grain bin 30, slightly below its full height (see reference). Figure 11 If the grain bin 30 is almost full of grains, the grains will press the push-button switch 40.

[0052] The space above the opening 43 of the winnowing hopper 21 of the winnowing conveyor 20 to the feeding inlet 35 of the grain bin 30 is covered by a canopy component 36. The canopy component 36 is configured to include a horizontal top surface 41 and four vertical side walls 42, and is a component with an inner space that opens downwards. The sprocket 23 on the upper side of the winnowing conveyor 20 is disposed within the inner space of the canopy component 36. Furthermore, the feeding operation position 27 also exists within the inner space of the canopy component 36.

[0053] Within the inner space of the canopy component 36, a curved, plate-shaped guide 37 is provided from above the feeding position 27 to above the feeding inlet 35 of the grain bin 30. The lower surface of this guide 37 is a curved surface that guides the grains fed from the feeding position 27 to the feeding inlet 35 of the grain bin 30. The guiding surface 38 of the guide 37 is highest above the feeding position 27 and gradually moves further forward in the grain feeding direction than the feeding position 27. Figure 4 (From the right side of the middle) and gradually decrease.

[0054] like Figures 4-6 As shown, above the feeding inlet 35 of the grain bin 30, there are a first grain quantity sensor 50 and a second grain quantity sensor 54 for determining the amount of grain fed from the hopper 25 into the grain bin 30. The first grain quantity sensor 50 and the second grain quantity sensor 54 are plate-shaped sensors with a planar detection surface on one side.

[0055] The first grain quantity sensor 50 and the second grain quantity sensor 54 are sensors that measure the magnitude of the impact (hereinafter referred to as "impact value") when grains collide with their detection surfaces. Various sensors capable of measuring the impact value when grains collide with the detection surface can be used as the first grain quantity sensor 50 and the second grain quantity sensor 54, such as strain gauges or piezoelectric elements capable of measuring the impact value as a voltage value. The measured impact value can be converted into the amount of grains colliding with the detection surface (e.g., weight).

[0056] The first grain quantity sensor 50 is located away from the feeding operation position 27. Specifically, the first grain quantity sensor 50 is located at the end of the guide surface 38 of the guide member 37, in front of the grain feeding direction. Therefore, the first grain quantity sensor 50 is fixed to the side wall 42 of the canopy member 36 by means of the mounting member 51. The feeding inlet 35 of the grain bin 30 is located below the first grain quantity sensor 50.

[0057] The detection surface of the first grain quantity sensor 50 faces the feeding position 27. Specifically, the detection surface of the first grain quantity sensor 50 is parallel to the vertical direction (i.e., longitudinally) and orthogonal to the grain feeding direction when viewed from above. Thus, the grains ejected from the feeding position 27 collide with the detection surface of the first grain quantity sensor 50 in an almost vertical direction and then fall into the grain bin 30 below.

[0058] Furthermore, the second grain quantity sensor 54 is located closer to the feeding operation position 27 than the first grain quantity sensor 50. Specifically, an inclined portion 46 is formed, extending obliquely downward from the uppermost part of the boundary wall 45 that separates the winnowing conveyor side (feeding operation position 27 side) from the grain bin 30 side towards the grain bin 30 side. Moreover, the second grain quantity sensor 54 is fixed above this inclined portion 46 by means of a mounting member 55. Thus, the second grain quantity sensor 54 is formed in a shape that protrudes from the uppermost part of the boundary wall 45 towards the grain bin 30 side.

[0059] The detection surface of the second grain quantity sensor 54 faces upward and is tilted relative to the horizontal direction. Specifically, the detection surface of the second grain quantity sensor 54 is lowered on the side protruding toward the grain bin 30. Its tilt angle relative to the horizontal direction is, for example, more than 20° and less than 30°.

[0060] If the chain 24 rotates, the hopper 25, reaching the feeding action position 27, will laterally dispose of grains towards the feeding inlet 35 of the grain bin 30. Furthermore, "lateral" also includes upward and downward directions. Most of the grains displaced from the hopper 25, due to centrifugal force, attempt to fly further and are guided along the guide surface 38 of the guide member 37, colliding with the first grain quantity sensor 50 located at the end of the guide member 37 (see reference). Figures 4-6 (Arrow A in the diagram). The grains that collide with the first grain quantity sensor 50 fall downwards into the grain bin 30. The first grain quantity sensor 50 is located on the extension line of the guide 37, thereby undertaking the function of guiding the grains into the grain bin 30. Therefore, it can also be said that the first grain quantity sensor 50 also serves as part of the guide.

[0061] However, even after the hopper 25 begins feeding, it will not immediately become empty. As the hopper 25 rotates around the sprocket 23 at the feeding position 27, grains continue to be discharged from the hopper 25. Finally, the grains remaining in the hopper 25 are ejected downwards when the hopper 25 reaches the vicinity of the end of the feeding position 27 and assumes an up-and-down tilting posture (see reference). Figure 4 as well as Figure 6 (See arrow B in the image). The grains thrown downwards collide with the second grain quantity sensor 54, which protrudes from the boundary wall 45 toward the grain bin 30. The grains that collide with the second grain quantity sensor 54 slide on the tilted second grain quantity sensor 54 or bounce off the second grain quantity sensor 54 and fall into the grain bin 30.

[0062] Furthermore, some of the grains fed downwards from the hopper 25 may fall to a position closer to the feeding action position 27 than the second grain quantity sensor 54. Such grains fall downwards into the winnowing drum 21 of the winnowing conveyor 20 and are then scooped up again by the hopper 25.

[0063] In addition, a control unit 64 is provided in the combine harvester. Figures 8-10 The waveform of the signal input to the control unit 64 is shown in the figure. Figure 8 as well as Figure 9 The upper section shows the waveform of the signal output from the first grain quantity sensor 50 and input to the control unit 64, while the lower section shows the waveform of the pulse signal output from the pickup sensor 28 and input to the control unit 64. The waveforms in the upper and lower sections correspond in time. As shown in the figure, the waveform of the signal from the first grain quantity sensor 50 has one peak for every three pulse signals.

[0064] Figure 8 The diagram shows the waveform of the signal output from the first grain quantity sensor 50 and input to the control unit 64 when grains repeatedly collide with the first grain quantity sensor 50. The five peak-shaped portions of this waveform represent the waveform when grains collide with the first grain quantity sensor 50.

[0065] observe Figure 8 It is understood that this includes the moment when the grain should almost never collide with the first grain quantity sensor 50, while always outputting a predetermined value from the first grain quantity sensor 50. This predetermined value is the value output from the first grain quantity sensor 50 due to factors such as the temperature of the first grain quantity sensor 50, the vibration of the combine harvester, and the slope of the combine harvester (collectively referred to as "interference"). This predetermined value is also the value that needs to be removed when calculating the grain quantity based on the measurement value of the first grain quantity sensor 50 because it is unrelated to the grain quantity colliding with the first grain quantity sensor 50. Therefore, in the grain quantity calculation described later, this predetermined value is treated as the "zero-point correction value" of the first grain quantity sensor 50.

[0066] In addition, Figure 10 In the diagram, the signals output from the first grain quantity sensor 50 and the second grain quantity sensor 54 are shown overlapping in the upper section, the signal output from the first grain quantity sensor 50 is shown in the middle section, and the signal output from the second grain quantity sensor 54 is shown in the lower section. The waveforms from the upper to the lower section correspond in time. Figure 10 As shown in the upper and lower sections, the second grain quantity sensor 54 is the same as the first grain quantity sensor 50, and it always outputs a predetermined value, including the moment when the grain should almost not collide with the second grain quantity sensor 54. In the grain quantity calculation described later, this predetermined value is treated as the "zero point correction value" of the second grain quantity sensor 54.

[0067] By the way, Figure 8The waveform is the waveform when the grain repeatedly collides with the first grain quantity sensor 50, so the peak-shaped waveform is continuous. Therefore, it is difficult to identify the waveform when the grain does not collide with the first grain quantity sensor 50 (i.e., the waveform caused only by interference).

[0068] In contrast, Figure 9 The diagram shows the waveform of the signal output from the first grain quantity sensor 50 and input to the control unit 64 when the hopper-free zone 29 passes through the feeding operation position 27. In this waveform, the relatively flat portion following the initial peak-shaped waveform represents the waveform when the hopper-free zone 29 passes through the feeding operation position 27, and is the waveform when the grain does not collide with the first grain quantity sensor 50. This waveform when the grain does not collide with the first grain quantity sensor 50 is caused by interference. As described later, the zero-point correction value of the first grain quantity sensor 50 is determined using this relatively flat waveform portion.

[0069] like Figure 10 As shown, in the waveform of the signal output from the second grain quantity sensor 54, a relatively flat waveform portion appears during the same time period as the waveform of the signal output from the first grain quantity sensor 50. The zero-point correction value of the second grain quantity sensor 54 is also calculated using this relatively flat waveform portion.

[0070] Furthermore, as mentioned above, Figure 8 as well as Figure 9 The waveform of the pulse signal output from the pickup sensor 28 and input to the control unit 64 is also shown. When the chain 24 rotates, the upper sprocket 23 also rotates. If the sprocket 23 rotates, the pickup sensor 28 detects the peak portion 74 of the detection sprocket 73, which rotates integrally with the sprocket 23, and outputs... Figure 8 as well as Figure 9 The diagram shows a periodic pulse signal. This pulse signal is acquired synchronously with the signals output from the first grain quantity sensor 50 and the second grain quantity sensor 54 by the control unit 64 provided in the combine harvester.

[0071] The control unit 64 calculates the amount of grains fed into the grain bin 30 based on the measurements from the first grain quantity sensor 50 and the second grain quantity sensor 54. The control unit 64 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), and EEPROM (Electrically Erasable and Programmable Read Only Memory) interconnected via an internal bus. The CPU reads the program stored in the ROM into the RAM and calculates the grain quantity based on that program.

[0072] The EEPROM stores the data required for calculating the amount of grains fed into the grain bin 30. For example, as described above, the engine speed corresponds to the rotational speed of the hopper 25. Therefore, the engine speed affects the flight path of the grains ejected from the hopper 25, and consequently affects the collision path with the first grain quantity sensor 50 and the second grain quantity sensor 54, thus affecting the measured values ​​of the first grain quantity sensor 50 and the second grain quantity sensor 54. Therefore, a table showing the relationship between the engine speed and the coefficient α, used in the grain quantity calculation described later to include the effect of the engine speed, is stored in the EEPROM.

[0073] Furthermore, factors such as the type of crop harvested affect the correlation between the measured values ​​of the first grain quantity sensor 50 and the second grain quantity sensor 54 and the actual amount of grain fed into the grain bin 30. Therefore, a variable β used in the grain quantity calculation is determined for each type of crop, and this variable β is stored in the EEPROM. The variable β is determined separately for each type of crop.

[0074] In addition, the control unit 64 has input interfaces and output interfaces. For example... Figure 11 As shown, the control unit 64 is connected to a first grain quantity sensor 50, a second grain quantity sensor 54, an engine speed sensor 63, a cutting switch 61, a pickup sensor 28, a push-button switch 40, and a display unit 62. The output signals from each of the first grain quantity sensor 50, the second grain quantity sensor 54, the engine speed sensor 63, the cutting switch 61, the pickup sensor 28, and the push-button switch 40 are input to the control unit 64 via input interfaces. Furthermore, the control unit 64 outputs output signals to the display unit 62 and the like via output interfaces.

[0075] Next, based on Figure 12 An example of calculating the amount of grain fed into the grain bin 30 using the control unit 64 will be described. Furthermore, Figure 12 The calculation order shown can be appropriately replaced within the scope of not causing problems.

[0076] First, the control unit 64 confirms whether the cutting switch 61 is on or off (S1). If it is on (S1 Yes), it starts to acquire signals from the first grain quantity sensor 50, the second grain quantity sensor 54, the engine speed sensor 63, and the pickup sensor 28 (S2).

[0077] Here, the control unit 64 associates the signal from the first grain quantity sensor 50 with the pulse signal from the pickup sensor 28, sets the time from one pulse signal to the next pulse signal as one cycle, and stores the data of one cycle of the signal from the first grain quantity sensor 50 as one set. Similarly, the control unit 64 associates the signal from the second grain quantity sensor 54 with the pulse signal from the pickup sensor 28, and stores the data of one cycle of the signal from the second grain quantity sensor 54 as one set. Figure 8 as well as Figure 9 The range of one cycle is shown. Subsequently, the control unit 64 continuously acquires and stores signals while calculating the grain quantity. Hereinafter, the data from the signal from the first grain quantity sensor 50 is designated as "first impact value data," and the data from the signal from the second grain quantity sensor 54 is designated as "second impact value data."

[0078] Next, the control unit 64 reads the first impact value data for three cycles and the second impact value data for the same three cycles (S3), and determines whether the first impact value data and the second impact value data for these three cycles are data from when the grains were thrown (or "thrown") using the hopper 25 (S4).

[0079] As a specific example of the judgment method, the control unit 64 compares the first impact value data with the zero-point correction value obtained by the method described later, thereby counting the number of data values ​​containing the zero-point correction value or higher in the first impact value data of the three cycles. Similarly, the control unit 64 compares the second impact value data with the zero-point correction value obtained by the method described later, thereby counting the number of data values ​​containing the zero-point correction value or higher in the second impact value data of the three cycles. Furthermore, if the total number of data values ​​containing the zero-point correction value or higher in the first and second impact value data is more than a predetermined number, it is determined that the first and second impact value data of these three cycles are data from when grains were released (S4 Yes).

[0080] On the other hand, if the total number of data values ​​above the zero-point correction value included in the first and second impact value data of these three cycles is less than a predetermined number, the control unit 64 determines that the first and second impact value data of these three cycles are data from a time before grain feeding (S4 No). In this case, the control unit 64 considers the amount of grain fed into the grain box 30 in the three cycles to be 0. The above is a specific example of the determination method, but the control unit 64 may also use other methods to make the determination.

[0081] Next, the control unit 64 integrates the values ​​of the first and second impact values ​​for the three cycles during grain feeding (S5). That is, the control unit 64 calculates the values ​​for the first and second impact values ​​respectively. Figure 8 The area of ​​one peak-shaped waveform in the waveform shown. This integral value includes the cumulative value of the first impulse value data and the values ​​caused by interference in the second impulse value data.

[0082] Therefore, the control unit 64 then performs the following calculation: it calculates the cumulative value of the values ​​caused by interference by removing the integral value obtained through S5. Here, the control unit 64 uses the zero-point correction value obtained by the method described later as the value caused by interference. Specifically, the control unit 64 performs the following calculation: it calculates the "collision value for each throw" (S6) based on the first impact value data and the second impact value data.

[0083] (Collision value for each throw (a value calculated based on the first impact value data))

[0084] = (Integral value of the first impact data over 3 cycles) - (Zero-point calibration value of the first grain size sensor) × (Length of 3 cycles) (Collision value for each throw (value calculated based on the second impact data))

[0085] = (Integral value of the second impact data over 3 cycles) - (Zero-point calibration value of the second grain size sensor) × (Length of 3 cycles) That is, with Figure 8 Taking the first peak-shaped waveform (the waveform of the first 3 cycles) as an example, subtract the area represented by the slash from the area of ​​the peak-shaped waveform.

[0086] Next, the control unit 64 converts the "collision value of each throw (the value calculated based on the first impact value data)" into the amount of grain that collides with the first grain amount sensor 50, and converts the "collision value of each throw (the value calculated based on the second impact value data)" into the amount of grain that collides with the second grain amount sensor 54 (S7).

[0087] Specifically, the control unit 64 substitutes the "collision value of each throw (the value obtained based on the first impact value data)," the coefficient α, and the variable β into a prescribed calculation formula to calculate the "collision amount of each throw (the amount obtained based on the first impact value data)." The calculation formula used here is one derived through experimentation or theory. Furthermore, the coefficient α used in the calculation is determined based on the engine speed measured by the engine speed sensor 63 and the aforementioned table stored in the EEPROM. This calculation determines the amount of grain that collides with the first grain quantity sensor 50 during a period of three cycles (in other words, one feeding using the hopper 25).

[0088] The control unit 64 uses the same method to substitute the "collision value of each throw (the value obtained based on the second impact value data)," the coefficient α, and the variable β into a prescribed calculation formula to obtain the "collision amount of each throw (the amount obtained based on the second impact value data)." Thus, the amount of grain that collides with the second grain quantity sensor 54 during the three-cycle period (in other words, one feeding operation using the hopper 25) is determined.

[0089] Next, the control unit 64 adds the "collision amount per throw (the amount calculated based on the first impact value data)" and the "collision amount per throw (the amount calculated based on the second impact value data)" to calculate the "feed amount per throw" (S8). Thus, the amount of grain that collides with the first grain quantity sensor 50 and the second grain quantity sensor 54 and is fed into the grain bin 30 during the three-cycle period (in other words, one feeding using the hopper 25) is calculated.

[0090] The control unit 64 adds the "feed amount per throw" calculated in this way to the current cumulative value of "feed amount per throw" (S9).

[0091] The control unit 64 repeatedly performs calculations from S3 to S8 until the cut-off switch 61 is turned off (S10 No), and continuously accumulates the calculated "feed amount for each throw" one by one (S9). The control unit 64 can make the display unit 62 display the accumulated value at any time.

[0092] After the cutting switch 61 is turned off (S10 Yes), the control unit 64 stops acquiring signals from the first grain quantity sensor 50, the second grain quantity sensor 54, the engine speed sensor 63, and the pickup sensor 28 (S11).

[0093] Furthermore, if the push-button switch 40 inside the grain bin 30 is pressed during harvesting or threshing, the control unit 64 will cause the display unit 62 to display the relevant information or issue a warning using a buzzer or light. Additionally, when the cumulative value calculated above reaches or exceeds a predetermined value, the control unit 64 will cause the display unit 62 to display the relevant information or issue a warning using a buzzer or light.

[0094] Next, the method for calculating the zero-point correction value performed by the control unit 64 will be explained.

[0095] The control unit 64 uses the average of the measurements from the first grain quantity sensor 50 and the second grain quantity sensor 54 when the hopper-free section 29 passes through the feeding operation position 27 without grains being fed into the grain bin 30 as their respective zero-point correction values. Therefore, the control unit 64 identifies the data from the first impact value data and the second impact value data when the chain 24 rotates 1.5 times, showing the data when the hopper-free section 29 passes through the feeding operation position 27 without grains being fed. To identify such data, the control unit 64 determines that the time period when the statistical deviation of the first and second impact value data is below a threshold corresponds to the time period when grains are not fed into the grain bin 30.

[0096] based on Figure 13 A specific example of how to calculate such zero-point correction values ​​will be explained.

[0097] First, the control unit 64 extracts the maximum and minimum values ​​from the first impact value data of the first cycle in the first 1.5 turns of the chain 24, and calculates the difference between the maximum and minimum values ​​as a type of statistical deviation (S1). Similarly, the control unit 64 extracts the maximum and minimum values ​​from the second impact value data of the first cycle, and calculates the difference between the maximum and minimum values ​​(S1). Furthermore, if both calculated differences between the maximum and minimum values ​​are below a predetermined threshold (Yes in S2), the control unit 64 calculates the average value of the first impact value data of this cycle and the average value of the second impact value data of the same cycle (S3).

[0098] The two "differences between the maximum and minimum values" mentioned above are both below the specified threshold, which means that neither the first impact value data nor the second impact value data has a peak-shaped waveform in this cycle, and that the grain does not collide with the first grain quantity sensor 50 and the second grain quantity sensor 54 in this cycle.

[0099] On the other hand, if either of the two calculated differences between the maximum and minimum values ​​exceeds a predetermined threshold (No in S2), the difference between the maximum and minimum values ​​of the data for the next period is calculated (S1).

[0100] The control unit 64 repeatedly performs the above calculations for three or more cycles. Furthermore, if for three consecutive cycles the difference between the maximum and minimum values ​​of the first impact value data is below a threshold and the difference between the maximum and minimum values ​​of the second impact value data is below a threshold (S4 Yes), the control unit 64 stores the average value of the first impact value data from the first and second cycles of these three cycles as a candidate value for the zero-point correction value of the first grain quantity sensor 50 (S5). Simultaneously, the control unit 64 stores the average value of the second impact value data from the first and second cycles of the same three cycles as a candidate value for the zero-point correction value of the second grain quantity sensor 54 (S5).

[0101] On the other hand, if the difference between the maximum and minimum values ​​of the first impact value data is below the threshold in only one cycle or two consecutive cycles and the difference between the maximum and minimum values ​​of the second impact value data is below the threshold (No in S4), the difference between the maximum and minimum values ​​of the next cycle is calculated (S1).

[0102] Furthermore, the control unit 64 repeatedly performs the above calculations until the calculations are completed for the data of the chain 24 rotating 1.5 times (S6).

[0103] Incidentally, if the length of one loop of chain 24 is 40 times the length of hopper 25, then the length of 1.5 loops of chain 24 is 60 times the length of hopper 25, and is the length of 180 cycles.

[0104] Furthermore, the phrase "the difference between the maximum and minimum values ​​of the first impact value data is below a threshold" for three consecutive cycles and "the difference between the maximum and minimum values ​​of the second impact value data is below a threshold" means that these three cycles are the three cycles in the hopperless interval 29 when the portion corresponding to one hopper 25 passes through the feeding action position 27.

[0105] If the control unit 64 terminates the calculation based on the data of the chain 24 rotating 1.5 times (S6 Yes), it selects the minimum value from the candidate values ​​of the zero-point correction value calculated and stored for the data of these 1.5 rotations (S7). Furthermore, the control unit 64 sets this minimum value as the new zero-point correction value and replaces the current zero-point correction value (S8).

[0106] The updated zero-point correction value is used to calculate the amount of grain corresponding to the next 1.5 revolutions of the chain 24. That is, the control unit 64 updates the zero-point correction value almost simultaneously with the chain 24 rotating 1.5 revolutions, and uses the updated zero-point correction value to calculate the amount of grain fed into the grain bin 30 during the next 1.5 revolutions.

[0107] In addition, during a specified period of time shortly after chain 24 begins to rotate, an appropriately set value is used as the zero-point correction value.

[0108] Next, the effects of this implementation method will be explained.

[0109] In this embodiment, the hopper 25 feeds grains into the feed inlet 35 of the grain bin 30 from a horizontal direction (including both the upward and horizontal directions). As sensors for collisions with the grains, a first grain quantity sensor 50 is provided at a feeding operation position 27 away from the hopper 25, and a second grain quantity sensor 54 is provided at a feeding operation position 27 close to the hopper 25. Therefore, grains thrown from the hopper 25 at a distance collide with the first grain quantity sensor 50, and grains thrown downwards from the hopper 25 collide with the second grain quantity sensor 54.

[0110] In this way, it is possible not only to measure the amount of grains thrown from the hopper 25 to a distance, but also to measure the amount of grains thrown from the hopper 25 downwards. Therefore, it is possible to determine the amount of grains fed into the grain box 30 with high precision.

[0111] Furthermore, a guide member 37 with a guide surface 38 is provided from above the feeding position 27 of the hopper 25 to above the grain bin 30. Therefore, most of the grains thrown from the hopper 25 can scatter along the guide surface 38 and be reliably guided into the grain bin 30. Moreover, a first grain quantity sensor 50 is provided at the end of the guide surface 38, so most of the grains reliably collide with the first grain quantity sensor 50. Thus, the amount of grains thrown from the hopper 25 to a distance can be determined with high accuracy.

[0112] Here, the plate-shaped first grain quantity sensor 50 is arranged vertically, so that grains that collide with the first grain quantity sensor 50 fall downward toward the grain bin 30 and are reliably fed into the grain bin 30.

[0113] Furthermore, the second grain quantity sensor 54 is located on the boundary wall 45 between the feeding position 27 and the grain bin 30, allowing for almost complete measurement of the amount of grains fed downwards from the hopper 25. Additionally, the boundary wall 45, which is already present in the combine harvester, is effectively utilized, and the second grain quantity sensor 54 is securely supported by the boundary wall 45. Because the second grain quantity sensor 54 is securely supported, its measurement accuracy is more stable.

[0114] Furthermore, since the detection surface of the second grain quantity sensor 54 is inclined relative to the horizontal direction, grains are less likely to accumulate on it. Additionally, the detection surface of the second grain quantity sensor 54 is lowered on the grain bin 30 side, so grains colliding with the detection surface of the second grain quantity sensor 54 tend to fall downwards into the grain bin 30. Here, if the inclination angle of the detection surface of the second grain quantity sensor 54 is 20° to 30° relative to the horizontal direction, not only are grains less likely to accumulate on it, but the grains also collide from a direction perpendicular to the detection surface, resulting in a larger impact value. Therefore, the measurement accuracy of the second grain quantity sensor 54 is improved.

[0115] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a hopper-free interval 29 without a hopper 25 is provided on the chain 24. Therefore, a time period can be formed in which no grains are fed from the hopper 25, the grains do not collide with the first grain quantity sensor 50 and the second grain quantity sensor 54, and the first grain quantity sensor 50 and the second grain quantity sensor 54 only output interference-based values ​​and input them to the control unit 64.

[0116] Furthermore, the control unit 64 calculates a zero-point correction value based on the respective interference-based values ​​input from the first grain quantity sensor 50 and the second grain quantity sensor 54, and subtracts the zero-point correction value from the first impact value data and the second impact value data during the time period when the hopper 25 passes through the feeding action position 27 and throws the grain. Thus, the control unit 64 can extract only the measured values ​​obtained from the collisions between the grain and the first grain quantity sensor 50 and the second grain quantity sensor 54 (i.e., the aforementioned "collision value for each throw (the value calculated based on the first impact value data)" and "collision value for each throw (the value calculated based on the second impact value data)").

[0117] Furthermore, the control unit 64 can calculate the amount of grains fed into the grain box 30 with high precision by converting the aforementioned "collision value of each throw" into the amount of grains.

[0118] Furthermore, disturbances such as the temperature of the first grain quantity sensor 50 and the second grain quantity sensor 54, and the vibration of the combine harvester, are constantly changing. Therefore, the influence of these disturbances on the values ​​input to the control unit 64 from the first grain quantity sensor 50 and the second grain quantity sensor 54 is also constantly changing. However, in this embodiment, the control unit 64 calculates and updates the zero-point correction value every time the chain 24 rotates 1.5 times, thereby always using the new zero-point correction value to calculate the grain quantity. Therefore, the control unit 64 can always use the new zero-point correction value that follows the changes in disturbances to calculate the grain quantity, thus enabling it to determine the amount of grain fed into the grain bin 30 with high accuracy.

[0119] In addition, when only one hopper 25 is removed from the chain 24 to form a hopperless section 29, when most grains are thrown from the hoppers 25 on both sides of the hopperless section 29, causing the peak waveforms in the first impact value data and the second impact value data to increase, it is possible to form a flat waveform between the two peak waveforms, which is only formed by the influence of interference.

[0120] However, in this embodiment, two hoppers 25 are removed from the chain 24 to form a hopperless section 29. Therefore, even if most grains are discharged from the hoppers 25 on both sides of the hopperless section 29, causing the peak waveforms in the first and second impact value data to increase, a flat waveform composed solely of interference can be reliably formed between the two peak waveforms. Therefore, the control unit 64 can calculate the zero-point correction value.

[0121] Furthermore, the control unit 64 calculates the statistical deviation (difference between the maximum and minimum values) of the first impact value data and the second impact value data in each cycle. Moreover, the control unit 64 determines the cycles with smaller statistical deviations to be those where the hopperless section 29 passes through the feeding operation position 27, thus preventing the grains from colliding with the first grain quantity sensor 50 and the second grain quantity sensor 54. Therefore, it is unnecessary to use sensors or the like to detect when the hopperless section 29 passes through the feeding operation position 27.

[0122] Next, modifications will be described. Various modifications can be made to the above embodiments without departing from the spirit of the invention. Several modifications will be described below; however, any one of the modifications described below can be applied to the above embodiments, and any two or more of the modifications described below can be combined. Furthermore, various modifications can be made in addition to the modifications described below.

[0123] (Example 1 of the amendment)

[0124] The location for setting the first grain quantity sensor 50 is any location above the grain bin 30, further away from the feeding action position 27 than the second grain quantity sensor 54, and is not limited to the location in front of the feeding direction of the guide surface 38 of the guide member 37 as described in the above embodiment. Figure 4 The right end of the middle.

[0125] also, Figure 4 The component designated as guide 37 may also extend further forward in the feeding direction than the first grain quantity sensor 50. Figure 4 The position is on the right side of the middle. In this case, it can be considered that the guide 37 extends up to the position of the first grain quantity sensor 50, and the first grain quantity sensor 50 is located at the end of the guide 37 in the feeding direction.

[0126] (Example 2 of the amendment)

[0127] The location for installing the second grain quantity sensor 54 can be any location above the grain bin 30, closer to the feeding operation position 27 than the first grain quantity sensor 50. In the above embodiment, the second grain quantity sensor 54 is installed at the uppermost part of the boundary wall 45 by means of the inclined part 46 and the mounting member 55; however, this is not a limitation. For example, the second grain quantity sensor 54 can be directly fixed at the uppermost part of the boundary wall 45. Alternatively, the second grain quantity sensor 54 can be installed at a location lower than the uppermost part of the boundary wall 45.

[0128] (Amendment Example 3)

[0129] The distance of the hopperless section 29 in chain 24, where there is no hopper 25, is not limited to the distance corresponding to two hoppers 25. For example, the distance of the hopperless section 29 can be the distance corresponding to three or more hoppers 25. However, the longer the hopperless section 29, the worse the grain recovery efficiency towards the grain bin 30.

[0130] (Amendment Example 4)

[0131] The method for outputting a pulse signal in connection with the feeding of grains using the hopper 25 is not limited to the method described in the above embodiment. Various methods for outputting pulse signals exist, as illustrated in the examples below.

[0132] For example, the pickup sensor 28 can detect the test piece that rotates integrally with the upper sprocket 23 and output a pulse signal. More specifically, multiple test pieces are fixed at equal intervals along the circumference near the outer periphery of the sprocket 23 itself. Alternatively, it can be configured such that a disc-shaped plate rotating integrally with the sprocket 23 is disposed adjacent to the sprocket 23, and multiple test pieces are fixed at equal intervals along the circumference of the plate. In either case, the pickup sensor 28 is fixed near the path of the test piece. With this structure, the test piece passes in front of the pickup sensor 28 as the sprocket 23 rotates. Whenever a test piece passes in front, the pickup sensor 28 detects the test piece and outputs a pulse signal.

[0133] As another method, firstly, multiple test pieces (not shown) are fixed at equal intervals along the extension direction of the chain 24, which is connected to the hopper 25. Additionally, a pickup sensor 28 is fixed separately from the sprocket 23 near the outer periphery of the upper sprocket 23. Therefore, when the chain 24 rotates around and around the sprocket 23, the test pieces pass in front of the pickup sensor 28. If the pickup sensor 28 detects a test piece passing in front of it, it outputs a pulse signal. Three test pieces are provided for one hopper 25. Therefore, during one grain dispensing cycle from the hopper 25, three pulse signals are output from the pickup sensor 28.

[0134] As another method, it can be configured such that a rotary encoder is connected to the rotating shaft of the upper sprocket 23, and the rotary encoder outputs a pulse signal whenever the sprocket 23 rotates by a predetermined angle.

[0135] (Amendment Example 5)

[0136] The statistical deviation used when the control unit 64 calculates the zero-point correction value is not limited to the difference between the maximum and minimum values. The statistical deviation used can be the standard deviation, dispersion, etc.

[0137] (Amendment Example 6)

[0138] The number of pulse signals emitted during one grain feeding cycle in hopper 25 is not limited to 3.

[0139] If the number of pulse signals emitted during one grain feeding cycle in hopper 25 is n, the control unit 64 only needs to... Figure 12 In step S3, data from n cycles is read and subsequent steps are executed. Additionally, the control unit 64 only needs to... Figure 13 In step S4, it is necessary to determine whether the statistical deviation is continuously below the threshold for n periods and then proceed with the subsequent steps.

[0140] (Amendment Example 7)

[0141] The method for determining the zero-point calibration value is not limited to the method described in the above embodiment. As long as the measured values ​​of the first grain quantity sensor 50 and the second grain quantity sensor 54 during the time period when the hopper-free interval 29 passes through the feeding action position 27 without feeding grains into the grain bin 30 are set as the zero-point calibration values ​​of their respective sensors, the solution can be obtained. There are various specific methods for determining the zero-point calibration value.

[0142] As a method different from the above-described embodiment, there is also a method as follows. In this method, similar to the above-described embodiment, the control unit 64 determines the period in which the statistical deviation of the first impact value data and the second impact value data is small as the period when no grains are fed into the grain bin 30.

[0143] Specifically, firstly, the control unit 64 calculates the average value and statistical deviation of the first impact value data in each cycle during the process of the chain 24 rotating 1.5 times. Next, the control unit 64 selects a cycle that meets the following three conditions.

[0144] Condition 1: The statistical deviation of the values ​​within this period is small.

[0145] Condition 2: The average value of the three cycles consisting of this cycle and the cycles before and after it is relatively small.

[0146] Condition 3: The statistical deviation of the three averages of Condition 2 (the averages of the three periods) is small.

[0147] Furthermore, the degree of smallness for each of conditions 1 to 3 can be appropriately set. For example, thresholds can be pre-set for conditions 1 to 3 as the benchmark for whether they can be considered small. Moreover, if the statistical deviation or average value is below the threshold, the control unit 64 determines that the condition is met.

[0148] The cycle that satisfies conditions 1 to 3 above is the second of three cycles arranged in a flat waveform, and it is the cycle during the period when grains are not fed into the hopper 25.

[0149] Furthermore, the control unit 64 sets the average value of the period selected by this method as the zero-point correction value of the first grain quantity sensor 50. When multiple periods are selected by this method, the control unit 64 sets the minimum average value among the average values ​​of these periods as the zero-point correction value of the first grain quantity sensor 50.

[0150] The control unit 64 also calculates the zero-point correction value of the second grain quantity sensor 54 using the same method.

[0151] (Amendment Example 8)

[0152] In the above embodiment, the control unit 64 finds the data when the hopper-free section 29 passes through the feeding operation position 27 from the first impact value data and the second impact value data after the chain 24 has wound 1.5 times, and calculates the zero-point correction value based on the first impact value data and the second impact value data at this time. However, "1.5 times" is just one example. The control unit 64 only needs to find the data when the hopper-free section 29 passes through the feeding operation position 27 from the first impact value data and the second impact value data that actually contain the data of the hopper-free section 29 (specifically, the length of more than one turn of the chain 24).

[0153] (Amendment Example 9)

[0154] Another method for determining the zero-point correction value is explained.

[0155] In this modified example, a sensor for detecting the hopperless section 29 is installed inside the winnowing conveyor 20. The control unit 64 correlates the signal output from this sensor with first impact value data and second impact value data to extract data when the hopperless section 29 passes through the feeding operation position 27 without grain feeding. Furthermore, the control unit 64 calculates a zero-point correction value based on the extracted data as described in the above embodiment.

[0156] As the aforementioned sensor, a non-contact sensor 101 such as a proximity sensor (e.g., an inductive or capacitive sensor) or a light sensor can be used. Figure 14 As shown, such a non-contact sensor 101 is configured to detect the passage path of the hopper 25 approaching the hopper 25 in a manner that enables it to detect the passage of the hopper 25 passing in front of the non-contact sensor 101.

[0157] When the non-contact sensor 101 is a sensor that detects the presence or absence of an object, it can detect the hopper 25 when it passes in front of it, but it cannot detect the hopper 25 when the hopperless section 29 passes in front of it. Furthermore, when the non-contact sensor 101 is a sensor that measures the distance to an object, the measurement distance is shorter when the hopper 25 passes in front of it, but longer when the hopperless section 29 passes in front of it. The control unit 64 establishes correlations between the presence or absence of the object, the change in measurement distance, and the first impact value data and the second impact value data, respectively, and extracts data when the hopperless section 29 passes through the feeding operation position 27 without grain feeding.

[0158] Alternatively, a contact sensor 102 can also be used as the aforementioned sensor. For example... Figure 14 The contact sensor 102 shown has a detection plate capable of shifting about a rotation axis 103. The detection plate extends toward the hopper 25. If the hopper 25 passes in front of the contact sensor 102, the detection plate is pressed by the hopper 25 and shifted about the rotation axis 103 in the direction of arrow C in the figure. The contact sensor 102 measures the angle between the position c2 of the detection plate when pressed by the hopper 25 and the reference position c1 of the detection plate when not pressed by the hopper 25, and outputs this angle to the control unit 64.

[0159] Furthermore, the control unit 64 determines whether the hopper 25 passes in front of the contact sensor 102 or whether the hopperless section 29 passes in front of the contact sensor 102 based on the angle between the position c2 of the detection piece when it is pressed by the hopper 25 and the reference position c1 of the detection piece when it is not pressed by the hopper 25. The control unit 64 establishes a correlation between this determination result and the first impact value data and the second impact value data, and extracts the data when the hopperless section 29 passes through the feeding action position 27 without feeding grains.

[0160] Furthermore, the examples described here are merely examples of how to use contact sensors and non-contact sensors.

[0161] in addition, Figure 14 The diagram shows both the non-contact sensor 101 and the contact sensor 102; however, in practice, the presence of either sensor is sufficient. Furthermore, the location where the non-contact sensor 101 and the contact sensor 102 are installed is not limited to the location shown in the diagram.

[0162] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0163] 10…Cutting section; 11…Feeding section; 12…Threshing device; 13…Screening machine; 14…Conveyor; 15…Exit conveyor; 16…Grain discharge device; 17…Relay conveyor; 18…Conveyor-type conveyor; 19…Transfer box; 20…Wildering conveyor; 21…Wildering cylinder; 22…Sprocket; 23…Sprocket; 24…Chain; 25…Hopper; 26…Receiving section; 27…Feeding action position; 28…Pickup sensor; 29…Hopperless section; 30…Grain bin; 31…Leveling plate; 32…Opening; 33…Blade; 34…Drive box; 35…Feed inlet; 36…Roof components; 37…Guide components; 38… …Guide surface; 40…Push-button switch; 41…Top surface; 42…Side wall; 43…Opening; 45…Boundary wall; 46…Inclined part; 50…First grain quantity sensor; 51…Mounting component; 54…Second grain quantity sensor; 55…Mounting component; 60…Cab; 61…Cut-off switch; 62…Display unit; 63…Engine speed sensor; 64…Control unit; 70…Shaft; 71…First pulley; 72…Belt; 73…Detection sprocket; 74…Peak part; 75…Rotating shaft; 76…Rotating shaft; 77…Second pulley; 78…Third pulley; 101…Non-contact sensor; 102…Contact sensor; 103…Rotating shaft.

Claims

1. A combine harvester comprising: a threshing device for threshing cut ear stalks; a storage section for storing the grains threshed by the threshing device; and a hopper for feeding the grains threshed by the threshing device into the storage section from an opening laterally facing upwards, wherein a sensor for determining the amount of grains fed from the hopper into the storage section is disposed above the storage section. Its features are, The sensors include: a first grain quantity sensor located at a feeding operation position away from the hopper; and a second grain quantity sensor located at a feeding operation position close to the hopper.

2. The combine harvester according to claim 1, characterized in that, A guide for guiding the grains is positioned above the feeding action position and above the storage section, and the first grain quantity sensor is positioned on the grain feeding direction side of the guide.

3. The combine harvester according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second grain quantity sensor is located on the boundary wall between the feeding action position and the storage section.

4. The combine harvester according to claim 2, characterized in that, The second grain quantity sensor is located on the boundary wall between the feeding action position and the storage section.

5. The combine harvester according to claim 3, characterized in that, The detection surface of the second grain quantity sensor is tilted relative to the horizontal direction and is lowered on the storage section side.

6. The combine harvester according to claim 4, characterized in that, The detection surface of the second grain quantity sensor is tilted relative to the horizontal direction and is lowered on the storage section side.

7. The combine harvester according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, Multiple hoppers are connected side-by-side to a chain, and a portion of the chain forms a hopper-free zone where no hoppers are present. The chain rotates, causing the multiple hoppers to rotate between the receiving part that scoops the threshed grains and the feeding position, thereby forming a time period from which grains are fed from the hoppers and a time period from which grains are not fed from the hoppers. The sensor's measurement value during the time period from which grains are fed from the hoppers is subtracted from the sensor's measurement value during the time period from which grains are not fed from the hoppers, and the subtraction result is converted into the grain quantity.

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