Cotton picker unit lifting structure

Abstract

A cotton harvester unit lifting structure is provided, comprising: a first frame; a second frame pivotally connected to the first frame about a pivot axis; and at least one sliding joint connecting the first frame to the second frame, wherein the sliding joint is not disposed at the pivot axis.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application with the application date of June 20, 2018, application number 201810634355.4, and invention name “Cotton picker unit lifting structure”. Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a lift structure for a cotton harvester, and in particular, to a pivoting lift mechanism for mounting several cotton picker units. Background Art

[0003] Cotton harvesters typically have a header with a plurality of pick-up units coupled to a hanger for harvesting cotton. Each pick-up unit includes at least one drum, and on some units, there may be a front drum and a rear drum. In any case, there are a plurality of pick-up bars on each drum, and a plurality of spindles on each pick-up bar. Each spindle may be tapered and have a barbed surface for removing cotton from the cotton plant. Each row unit includes a row of small drums having a plurality of small drums for removing the picked cotton from the spindles. The small drums are discs that may be coated in rubber or polyurethane and are rotatably driven at a rate much greater than that of the spindles. In conventional cotton harvester row units, the spindles move below the bottom surface of the small drums so that the cotton is unwound and stripped from the spindles.

[0004] Conventional 4, 5 and 6 row cotton harvesters typically use a hanger that raises and lowers the right and left sides independently. This allows 2 or 3 row units to move up and down together to follow contours in the field, independent of the other side. Each side is suspended from a central mounting point, requiring significant lifting structure to support the corresponding row unit.

[0005] Conventional harvesters require extensive modification to be detached from a cotton harvester. Many cotton harvesters require each row unit to be removed individually by disconnecting several mechanical, hydraulic, water and / or electrical connections to each row unit. As a result, conventional cotton harvesters are designed to be transported on public roads without removing the harvester and row units. As a result, the number of row units on conventional cotton harvesters is limited because of the difficulty in removing the harvester and transportation width limitations. Summary of the invention

[0006] One exemplary embodiment is a cotton harvester unit lifting structure having: a first frame; a second frame pivotally coupled to the first frame about a pivot axis; and at least one sliding joint coupling the first frame to the second frame, wherein the sliding joint is not disposed at the pivot axis.

[0007] In one example of this embodiment, the at least one sliding joint further has an arc-shaped opening defined in the second frame and a sliding member coupled to the first frame, wherein the sliding member is restricted from moving except for sliding in the arc-shaped opening.

[0008] In another example, the second frame has: a first header cross member; and a second header cross member coupled to the first header cross member. Wherein, the first header cross member and the second header cross member are configured to be removably coupled to the row unit. In one aspect of this example, the at least one sliding joint has: a first sliding joint that slidably couples the first header cross member to the first frame; and a second sliding joint that slidably couples the second header cross member to the first frame.

[0009] Another example has a linear actuator pivotally coupled to the first frame at a first end and pivotally coupled to the second frame at a second end, wherein the linear actuator is articulated to pivot the second frame relative to the first frame about the pivot axis. One aspect of this example has a floor sensor disposed on a row unit, wherein the linear actuator articulates in response to the floor sensor approaching an underlying surface.

[0010] In yet another example, the first frame has: at least one top link that couples the first frame to a work machine; at least one linear actuator that couples the first frame to the work machine; and a subframe that pivotally couples the first frame to the work machine. Wherein the top link adjusts the fore-and-aft direction of the lifting structure, and the linear actuator raises and lowers the lifting structure relative to the work machine. In one aspect of this example, the at least one top link, the at least one linear actuator, and the subframe are coupled to the work machine using a removable coupler.

[0011] Another example has: a plurality of row units coupled to the second frame, the plurality of row units providing a single water connection, a single grease connection, and a single electrical connection; and a work machine providing water connectivity, grease connectivity, and electrical connectivity to the plurality of row units, wherein the single water connection, the single grease connection, and the single electrical connection provide corresponding water connectivity, grease connectivity, and electrical connectivity to each of the plurality of row units.

[0012] In another example, the second frame pivots 4 to 8 degrees relative to the first frame.

[0013] Another embodiment can be a cotton harvester system having a work machine with at least one ground engaging mechanism that selectively moves the cotton harvester system over an underlying surface, and a cab that houses a plurality of controls for the cotton harvester system. The system can also have a header unit having a first frame configured to be removably coupled to the work machine, a second frame pivotally coupled to the first frame about a pivot axis, and a plurality of row units coupled to the header unit. Wherein the second frame selectively pivots relative to the first frame.

[0014] In one example, the first frame has a single water coupler and a single hydraulic coupler, wherein all of the plurality of row units are coupled to the work machine via the single water coupler and the single hydraulic coupler.

[0015] In another example, there is at least one sliding joint that couples the first frame to the second frame, wherein the at least one sliding joint comprises an arc-shaped opening defined in the second frame and a sliding member coupled to the first frame.

[0016] In yet another example, the second frame has: a first header cross member; a second header cross member spaced apart from and coupled to the first header cross member; a first sliding joint slidably coupling the second cross member to the first frame; a second sliding joint slidably coupling the first cross member to the first frame; and a third sliding joint slidably coupling the first cross member to the first frame.

[0017] Another example has a linear actuator pivotally coupled to the first frame at a first end and pivotally coupled to the second frame at a second end, wherein the linear actuator articulates to pivot the second frame relative to the first frame about the pivot axis.

[0018] Another example has a linkage assembly coupled to the first frame, at least one top link coupling the first frame to a work machine, at least one linear actuator coupling the first frame to the work machine, and a subframe pivotally coupling the first frame to the work machine. Wherein the top link adjusts the fore-aft orientation of the header unit relative to the work machine, and the linear actuator raises and lowers the header unit relative to the work machine. Another aspect of this example has a ground sensor disposed on at least one row unit, wherein the linear actuator articulates in response to the ground sensor approaching an underlying surface.

[0019] In one example, the pivot axis is defined at a location away from the first frame and the second frame and toward the underlying surface.

[0020] Yet another embodiment is a cotton harvester unit lifting structure having a first frame, a second frame having a first header cross member and a second header cross member, the second frame being pivotally coupled to the first frame about a pivot axis, and at least one row unit coupled to the second frame.

[0021] Wherein the pivot axis is not oriented to pass through the first frame or the second frame.

[0022] One example has a first sliding joint slidably coupling the first frame with the first header cross member and a second sliding joint slidably coupling the first frame with the second header cross member. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] The above-mentioned aspects of the present disclosure and the manner of obtaining them will become clearer and the present disclosure itself will be better understood by referring to the following description of the embodiments of the present disclosure in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0024] Figure 1 It is a side view of a cotton harvesting machine;

[0025] Figure 2 is an elevated perspective view of a pivoting header unit;

[0026] Figure 3 is an elevated perspective view of the header frame assembly;

[0027] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A side view of a header frame assembly;

[0028] Figure 5 yes Figure 3A front view of a header frame assembly;

[0029] Figure 6 is a front view of the upper header frame;

[0030] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A lowered perspective view of the upper header frame;

[0031] Figure 8 is an elevated perspective view of the lower header frame;

[0032] Fig. 9 yes Figure 2 A front view of a pivoting header unit;

[0033] Fig.10 Pivots in a counterclockwise direction Figure 2 A front view of a pivoting header unit;

[0034] Fig.11 Pivots in a clockwise direction Figure 2 Front view of the pivoting header unit.

[0035] Corresponding reference numerals are used to indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] The embodiments of the present disclosure described below are not intended to be exclusive or to limit the present disclosure to the precise forms described in the following detailed description. Rather, these embodiments are selected and described so that others skilled in the art can appreciate and understand the principles and practices of the present disclosure.

[0037] Reference Figure 1 , a conventional cotton harvesting machine 100 is shown. The cotton harvesting machine 100 may have a work machine 102 coupled to a header unit 104. The work machine 102 may have a plurality of ground engaging mechanisms 112, such as wheels or tracks. Additionally, the header unit 104 may have a plurality of row units 106 thereon. There may be any number of row units 106, and the present disclosure is not limited to the exact number shown throughout.

[0038] The work machine 102 may also have a cab 108 coupled thereto. The cab 108 may be positioned to allow a user to access controls 110 of the cotton harvester 100 and thereby direct the harvesting process. The controls 110 may include inputs for manipulating the direction and speed of the cotton harvester, inputs for initiating a harvesting sequence on the header unit 104 (i.e., engaging the drums, rollers, and spindles of the row units), and inputs for raising and lowering the header unit 104, among other inputs.

[0039] In one embodiment, the controller may have an input for releasing the header unit 104 from the work machine 102. In this embodiment, the header unit 104 may be lowered to the surface below and the mechanical coupler may disengage the work machine 102 from the header unit 104. Additionally, a single grease coupler, water coupler, and electrical coupler between the header unit 104 and the work machine 102 may be disengaged. Once the mechanical coupler, grease coupler, water coupler, and electrical coupler are disengaged from the header unit 104, the work machine 102 may be separated from the header unit 104.

[0040] Now, refer to Figure 2 , illustrates one embodiment of a pivoting header unit 200. The pivoting header unit 200 may have a header frame assembly 202 having an upper header frame or first frame 204 pivotally coupled to a lower header frame or second frame 206. Additionally, the second header frame 206 may provide a first header cross member 208 coupled to a second header cross member 210 via a cross member coupler 212. The cross member coupler 212 may rigidly couple the first header cross member 208 spaced apart from the second header cross member 210. Additionally, the first header cross member 208 and the second header cross member 210 provide for mounting locations for any number of row units 106. In Figure 2 In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2 , the second header frame 206 is pivotable relative to the first header frame 204 , thereby causing the row units 106 to pivot relative thereto when coupled to the work machine 102 .

[0041] exist Figure 2 102. A linkage assembly 214 is also illustrated. The linkage assembly 214 may provide a positional coupling of the pivoting header unit 200 to the work machine. More specifically, the linkage assembly may provide a coupler for at least mechanically, hydraulically, and electrically coupling the pivoting header unit 200 to the work machine 102. The linkage assembly 214 may have, among other components, hydraulic components that allow a user to raise and lower the pivoting header unit 200 in response to the controller 110. Additionally, in one embodiment, the linkage assembly 214 may allow a user to attach or remove the pivoting header unit 200 without the use of auxiliary tools. In other words, a locking pin or other removable coupler may mechanically couple the linkage assembly 214 to the work machine 102, a quick-connect type coupler may connect any desired fluid lines, and an electrical coupler may connect any electrical components.

[0042] In one embodiment, one or more sensors 216 may be disposed on a bottom portion of one or more row units 106 proximate to the underlying surface. The sensors 216 may communicate to a user, using a controller or otherwise, the height of the row unit 106 relative to the underlying surface. As will be described in more detail below, the sensors 216 may monitor and help control the angle of the second header frame 206 relative to the first header frame 204 to ensure that the row units 106 remain properly aligned with the underlying surface.

[0043] Now, refer to Figure 3 , the header frame assembly 202 is shown isolated from the row units 106 and the work machine 102. Figure 3 Also shown in the figure is a header angle linear actuator 302 or positioning cylinder. The linear actuator 302 can be pivotally coupled to the first header frame 204 at a first end 304 and pivotally coupled to the second header frame 206 at a second end 306. In addition, the linear actuator 302 can change the distance between the first end 304 and the second end 306, as is known in the art. As the linear actuator 302 changes the distance between the first end 304 and the second end 306, the angle of the second header frame 206 relative to the first header frame 204 can change.

[0044] The header angle linear actuator 302 can be any type of linear actuator known in the art, and the present disclosure is not limited to any particular type of linear actuator and contemplates other devices that replace the linear actuator. More specifically, the linear actuator 302 can be a hydraulic or pneumatic linear actuator having a piston disposed in a cylinder and driving a shaft. The axial position of the piston and thus the shaft can be controlled by hydraulic or pneumatic pressure. Alternatively, the linear actuator can be an airbag configured to change the positioning of the second header frame 206 relative to the first header frame 204 based on the amount of air pressure provided to the corresponding airbag. In yet another embodiment, a rack and pinion set can be used to replace any of the above devices. The rack can be disposed on the second header frame 206, and the pinion can be driven by a motor coupled to the first header frame 204, or vice versa. Therefore, any known method of changing the straight-line distance between two points can be used, and the present disclosure is not limited to any particular method.

[0045] exist Figure 3 The linkage assembly 214 is further shown in more detail in FIG. The linkage assembly 214 may have at least one top link 308, one end of the top link 308 being coupled to the first header frame 204 and being configured to be coupled to the work machine 102 at its other end. The top link 308 may be adjustable to change the position of the header frame assembly 202 in the forward 412 direction or the rearward 414 direction (see FIG. Figure 4 ) on the angle orientation.

[0046] The linkage assembly 214 may also have at least one lift cylinder 310 that is coupled at one end to the first header frame 204 and configured to be coupled at its other end to the work machine 102. In one embodiment, the lift cylinder 310 may be a hydraulic cylinder controlled by the controller 110. The lift cylinder 310 may be engaged by a user transitioning the header frame assembly 202 between a raised position and a lowered position (not specifically shown) using the controller 110. The user may transition the header frame assembly 202 to a raised position with the help of the lift cylinder 310 to allow the cotton harvesting machine 100 to be transported. Alternatively, when the user wants to initiate a cotton harvesting sequence, the user may lower the header frame assembly 202 with the help of the lift cylinder 310 to allow the row units 106 to be aligned with the crop to be harvested.

[0047] To provide additional support to the header frame assembly 202, a sub-frame 312 may also be pivotally coupled at a first end to the first header frame 204 and configured to be coupled at its other end to the work machine 102. The sub-frame 312 may define a lift axis 314 about which the header frame assembly 202 pivots when the header frame assembly 202 transitions between the raised position and the lowered position.

[0048] Now, refer to Figure 4 , illustrates a side view of the header frame assembly 202. The pivotal relationship of the linkage assembly 214 is shown in greater detail. As previously mentioned, the header frame assembly 202 can rotate about the lift shaft 314. When the pivoting header unit 200 is coupled to the work machine 102, the lift shaft 314 is defined as passing through a portion of the work machine 102 and one end of the sub-frame 312 can be pivotally coupled thereto. When the lift cylinder 310 is articulated, the distal end 402 of the sub-frame 312 can move along the arcuate path 404 as the distal end 402 of the sub-frame 312 pivots about the lift shaft 314. In addition, the distal end 402 can be pivotally coupled to the first header frame 204.

[0049] exist Figure 4In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1 , a top link 308 may be utilized to maintain the header frame assembly 202 in proper alignment when the header frame assembly 202 transitions between the raised position and the lowered position. More specifically, the top link 308 may be pivotally coupled to the work machine 102 at a first end 406 and pivotally coupled to the first header frame 204 at a second end 408. When the lift cylinder 310 rotates the header frame assembly 202 about the lift axis 314, the top link 308 ensures that the first header frame 204 maintains a proper orientation with respect to the underlying surface. More specifically, the top link 308 has an adjustable length between the first end 406 and the second end 408. Adjusting the length of the top link 308 may in turn change the generally vertical plane 410 of the first header frame 204. Based on the selected length of the top link 308, the vertical plane 410 may change in a forward direction 412 or a rearward direction 414 about the distal end 402 of the sub-frame 312.

[0050] The top link 308 may be a mechanically adjustable turnbuckle type mechanism, or it may be a linear actuator that implements pneumatic, hydraulic, or electrical power to change the distance between the first end 406 and the second end 408. Thus, the present disclosure is not limited to any particular type of top link 308, but rather many different structures for changing the length of the top link 308 are contemplated. In various embodiments, the top link 308 may not have an adjustable length at all. In yet another embodiment, a user may utilize the controller 110 to change the top link.

[0051] Although the second header frame 206 is described as being pivotable relative to the first header frame 204, the second header frame 206 is substantially non-pivotable relative to the first header frame in either the forward 412 direction or the rearward 414 direction. In other words, not only do the lift cylinders 310 and top links 308 move the first header frame 204 as described above, the forward 412 position and the rearward 414 position of the second header frame 206 also move in substantially the same manner. Figure 5 In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2 , the second header frame 206 is pivotable relative to the first header frame 204 in a clockwise 524 and a counterclockwise 526 direction that is substantially perpendicular to the forward 412 direction / rearward 414 direction.

[0052] Figure 5 1 illustrates a front view of the header frame assembly 202 with the row units 106 removed. More specifically, Figure 5 2 shows a first sliding joint 502, a second sliding joint 504, and a third sliding joint 506 defined between a first header frame 204 and a second header frame 206. The first sliding joint 502 may have a first arcuate slot 602 defined in the first header frame 204 and may be connected to the first header frame 204 by a first slide or roller 604 ( Figure 6 ) is connected to the second header frame 206 (see Figure 6 ). The first arcuate slot 602 can be defined along a first arcuate path 528. The first arcuate path 528 can be a semicircular path defined around the pivot point 508. Thus, the second header frame 206 can slide around the first sliding joint 502 and rotate relative to the first header frame 204 around the pivot point 508.

[0053] The second sliding joint 504 and the third sliding joint 506 may have a second arcuate slot 510 and a second arcuate slot 512 respectively defined in the second header frame 206, and are coupled to the first header frame 204 by a second slide or roller 514 and a third slide or roller 516 respectively. The second arcuate slot 510 and the third arcuate slot 512 may be defined along a second arcuate path 518. The second arcuate path 518 may be a semicircular path defined around the pivot point 508 but having a radius greater than the radius of the first arcuate path 528. Thus, the second header frame 206 may slide around the first sliding joint 502, the second sliding joint 504, and the third sliding joint 506, and rotate relative to the first header frame 204 around the pivot point 508.

[0054] exist Figure 5 , the arcuate slots 602, 510, 512 may each be defined along an arc length 520. The arc length 520 of the respective sliding joints 502, 504, 506 may define a rotation limit of the second header frame 206 relative to the first header frame 204. More specifically, when the respective rollers 604, 514, 516 are positioned along the midpoint of their respective arcuate slots 602, 510, 512, the second header frame 206 is aligned with the first header frame 204 along the center plane 522. However, the sliding joints 502, 504, 506 may be configured to allow the second header frame 206 to pivot relative to the first header frame 204 in a clockwise direction 524 or a counterclockwise direction 526.

[0055] When the second header frame 206 is pivoted in the counterclockwise direction 526, the corresponding rollers 604, 514, 516 may become located outside the midpoint of their corresponding arcuate slots 602, 510, 512, thereby allowing the second header frame 206 to pivot in the counterclockwise direction 526 relative to the first header frame 204, as shown in FIG. Fig.11 Similarly, when the second header frame 206 is pivoted in the clockwise direction 524, the Fig.10 In the opposite direction as when pivoting in the counterclockwise direction 526 as shown in FIG, the respective rollers 604, 514, 516 may become located outside the midpoint of their respective arcuate slots 602, 510, 512.

[0056] As described above, the arcuate slots 602, 510, 512 may ultimately be defined about the pivot point 508. In this embodiment, when the second header frame 206 pivots relative to the first header frame 204, the second header frame 206 and any row units 106 coupled thereto also rotate about the pivot point 508. Additionally, the arc length 520 may define a parameter or rotation limit of the second header frame 206 relative to the first header frame 204. For example, the second header frame 206 may pivot counterclockwise 526 until the first roller 604, the second roller 514, and the third roller 516 are at the first ends of the respective arcuate slots 602, 510, 512, thereby limiting the second header frame 206 from further counterclockwise 526 rotation. Similarly, the second header frame 206 can pivot clockwise 524 until the first roller 604, the second roller 514, and the third roller 516 are at the second ends of the respective arcuate slots 602, 510, 512, thereby limiting the second header frame 206 from further clockwise 524 rotation. Thus, in one embodiment, the arc length 520 of the respective arcuate slots 602, 510, 512 can determine the amount of rotation permitted between the second header frame 206 and the first header frame 204.

[0057] In one embodiment, the header angle linear actuator 302 can change the position of the first roller 604, the second roller 514, and the third roller 516 in their respective arcuate slots 602, 510, 512. As described above, the first end 304 of the header angle linear actuator 302 is coupled to the first header frame 204, and the second end 306 thereof is coupled to the second header frame 206. The header angle linear actuator 302 can be positioned laterally between the first header frame 204 and the second header frame 206 in an orientation that allows the actuator 302 to selectively move the second header frame 206 in a clockwise direction 524 or a counterclockwise direction 526.

[0058] Now, refer to Figure 7 , the first header frame 204 is illustrated as being isolated from the second header frame 206. Figure 7, the link plate 702 is shown coupled to the outer frame portion 704 via an elongated coupler 706. The link plate 702 provides a structural base for coupling the linkage assembly 214 to the remainder of the first header frame 204. Additionally, the elongated coupler 706 extends away from the link plate 702 and the linkage assembly 214 and is coupled to the outer frame portion 704. The outer frame portion 704 may provide a structural location for coupling the second roller 514 and the third roller 516 to the first header frame 204. Additionally, the outer frame portion 704 may provide a structural location for coupling the first end 304 of the linear actuator 302. In one embodiment, a linear actuator coupler 708 is coupled to the outer frame portion 704 to provide a location for pivotally coupling the linear actuator 302. In a different embodiment, the linear actuator 302 is pivotally coupled directly to the outer frame portion 704.

[0059] exist Figure 7 602 is further more clearly shown in the figure. The first arcuate groove 602 may have an upper track 710 and a lower track 712 that are connected to the connecting rod plate 702 or formed integrally with the connecting rod plate 702. In one embodiment, the lower track 712 is connected to the connecting rod plate 702 in a removable manner. In this embodiment, the lower track 712 can be removed from the connecting rod plate 702, and the first roller 604 can be set in the first arcuate groove 602. Then, the lower track 712 can be connected to the connecting rod plate 702 using the first roller 604 set therein. Once the lower track 712 is connected to the connecting rod plate 702 using the first roller 604 set therein, the first roller 604 is generally restricted from moving outside the arcuate groove 602. In other words, the lower track 712 is removable to allow the first roller 604 to become set in the first arcuate groove 602.

[0060] Now, refer to Figure 8 , the second header frame 206 is illustrated as being isolated from the remaining components of the cotton harvester 100. Along the second header cross member 210 may be one or more spacers 804 configured to space the second header frame 206 from the first header frame 204 when coupled with the first header frame 204. More specifically, there may be spacers 804 disposed on either side of the first roller 604. The spacers 804 may be sized to contact a portion of the first header frame 204 when the first roller 604 is disposed within the first arcuate slot 602. The spacers 804 may be fixedly coupled to the second header cross member 210, integrally formed in the cross member 210, or removably coupled to the cross member 210. The spacers 804 may have a low friction surface coating to allow the second header frame 206 to pivot relative to the first header frame 204 during contact between the spacers 804 and the first header frame 204.

[0061] The second arcuate slot 510 and the third arcuate slot 512 may also have an upper rail 806 and a lower rail 808. The upper rail 806 and the lower rail 808 may be coupled to the second header frame 206 to define upper and lower portions of the corresponding second arcuate slot 510 and the third arcuate slot 512. Similar to the lower rail 712 of the first header frame 204, the upper rail 806 may be removably coupled to the second header frame 206. More specifically, the upper rail 806 may be removed to allow the second roller 514 and the third roller 516 of the first header frame 204 to become disposed within the corresponding second arcuate slot 510 and the third arcuate slot 512. Once the second roller 514 and the third roller 516 are disposed within the second arcuate slot 510 and the third arcuate slot 512, the upper rail 806 may be coupled thereto so that the rollers 514, 516 are disposed in the corresponding slots 510, 512.

[0062] Figure 8 204. Also illustrated is a linear actuator coupler 802 coupled to the first header cross member 208. The linear actuator coupler 802 may be disposed along the second header frame 206 at a location spaced apart from the linear actuator coupler 708 of the first header frame 204. Additionally, as described above, the linear actuator coupler 802 may be pivotally coupled to one end of the linear actuator 302.

[0063] In one embodiment, the second header frame 206 can be coupled to the first header frame 204 by selectively coupling corresponding rail assemblies of the arcuate slots 602, 510, 512. More specifically, the lower rail 712 of the first arcuate slot 602 and the upper rails of the second arcuate slot 510 and the third arcuate slot 512 can be removed. The first roller 604 can be disposed in the first arcuate slot 602, and the second roller 514 and the third roller 516 can be disposed in the second arcuate slot 510 and the third arcuate slot 512. Then, the lower rail 712 can be coupled to the first header frame 204, thereby retaining the first roller 604 in the first arcuate slot 602. Similarly, the upper rail 806 can be coupled to the second header frame 206, thereby retaining the second roller 514 and the third roller 516 in the corresponding second arcuate slot 510 and the third arcuate slot 512. Once the rollers 604 , 514 , 516 are coupled within their respective arcuate slots 602 , 510 , 512 , the second header frame 206 may pivot about the first header frame 204 as the rollers 604 , 514 , 516 slide or roll within the respective arcuate slots 602 , 510 , 512 .

[0064] Although arcuate slots 602, 510, 512 are described herein, in one embodiment, the sliding joints 502, 504, 506 may not be arcuate. In this embodiment, the respective sliding joints may be formed by one or more substantially linear tracks coupled to each other at an angle. The linear tracks may be coupled to each other at an angle that allows the opening of the corresponding joint to remain substantially within the respective first arcuate path 528 or second arcuate path 518. In this embodiment, the angled connection between the substantially linear tracks may also serve as a brake for the header frame assembly 202. In other words, when the second header frame 206 is in an aligned position with the first header frame 204, the rollers 604, 514, 516 may be disposed within the brake, thereby biasing the header frame assembly 202 toward the aligned position.

[0065] In one aspect of the present disclosure, the second header frame 206 may provide one or more row unit rails 810 configured to couple one or more row units 106 to the second header frame 206. The row unit rails 810 may be integrally formed with or coupled to the corresponding first header cross members 208 and second header cross members 210. Additionally, the row unit rails 810 may extend substantially the entire length of the second header frame 206. In this configuration, the row units 106 may be selectively disposed at any location along the second header frame 206. Additionally, the row units 106 may slide along the row unit rails 810 from one side of the second header frame 206 to an opposite side of the second header frame 206 without being removed from the row unit rails 810.

[0066] In another aspect of this embodiment, the controller can communicate with sensors 216 disposed on one or more row units 106 to determine the relationship of the corresponding row unit compared to the underlying surface. More specifically, Fig. 9 A first sensor 902 and a second sensor 904 are illustrated as being disposed on the row units 106 on opposite sides of the pivoting header unit 200. The first sensor 902 and the second sensor 904 may communicate to the controller the height of the corresponding row unit relative to the underlying surface 906. In this embodiment, the controller may manipulate the header angle linear actuator 302 to change the angle of the second header frame 206 and, therefore, the row unit 106 coupled thereto, so the distance from the underlying surface 906 remains substantially the same on both sides of the pivoting header unit 200. In other words, if the first sensor 902 becomes closer to the underlying surface than the second sensor 904, the controller may pivot the second header frame 206 in the clockwise direction 524 until both the first sensor 902 and the second sensor 904 are approximately the same distance from the underlying surface.

[0067] In one embodiment, as described above, the controller may use the sensors 902, 904 to change the angle of the second header frame 206 via the actuator 302. In a different embodiment, the user may use the controller 110 to adjust the angle of the second header frame 206 relative to the first header frame 204. In this embodiment, the sensors 902, 904 may display to the user the height of the row unit from the underlying surface 906. The user may then use the controller 110 to change the angle of the second header frame 206 relative to the first header frame 204.

[0068] In one embodiment, the second header frame 206 can pivot approximately 4 to 8 degrees in the clockwise direction 524 and 4 to 8 degrees in the counterclockwise direction 526 relative to the first header frame 204 about the pivot point 508. In yet another embodiment, the second header frame 206 can pivot approximately 6 degrees in the clockwise direction 524 and approximately 6 degrees in the counterclockwise direction 526 relative to the first header frame 204 about the pivot point 508. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the amounts of rotation disclosed herein. Rather, other embodiments are contemplated in which the second header frame 206 rotates more than 8 degrees in both the clockwise direction 524 and the counterclockwise direction 526 relative to the first header frame 204.

[0069] The linkage assembly 214 and drive shaft for the row unit 106 may be removably coupled to the work machine 102 without the use of specialized tools. More specifically, the connection may be of a type that a typical adult would have sufficient strength to couple and detach the entire pivoting header unit 200 without the use of any tools. The mechanical connection may utilize locking pins or the like, the fluid connection may utilize quick-release fasteners, and the electrical connection may be secured at a single harness coupler positioned about the linkage assembly 214. As a non-exclusive example, a water line may be coupled with a cam latch coupler. In this embodiment, each header unit 104 may have grease and water lines that couple with a main grease line and a main water line using a tee fitting that extends across the rear of the row unit 106. As described above, each of the main water line and the main grease line may have a single line that passes through a quick connector.

[0070] In one embodiment, the air duct may also be detachable from the row unit 106. In this embodiment, the work machine 102 may have a securing bar coupled thereto. The securing bar may provide structural support for the air duct when the air duct is removed from the row unit 106. Alternatively, in another embodiment, there may be straps or elbows for securing the lower portion of the air duct to the upper portion of the air duct. The air duct may be retracted to a storage position, and the straps or elbows may lock it in place.

[0071] Although the rollers 604, 514, 516 and the arcuate slots 602, 510, 512 are shown and described as being at corresponding positions of the first header frame 204 and the second header frame 206, the specific positions disclosed are not limited. More specifically, although the arcuate slots may be described as being defined in the first header frame and corresponding to the rollers in the second header frame, the positioning of the slots and rollers in the relative first and second header frame portions is also contemplated herein. In addition, although the rollers 604, 514, 516 are described throughout, the present disclosure contemplates the use of slides instead. The slides may replace the rollers 604, 514, 516 and not roll at all, but slide within the corresponding arcuate slots. Alternatively, the rollers 604, 514, 516 may pivot about bearings to allow the frames 204, 206 to pivot relative to each other.

[0072] In one embodiment, a locking mechanism may be positioned between the first header frame 204 and the second header frame 206. The locking mechanism may have an engaged position and a disengaged position. When the locking mechanism is in the engaged position, the second header frame 206 may be substantially restricted from pivoting relative to the first header frame 204. In one embodiment, the locking mechanism is a pin that can be positioned in through holes in the first header frame 204 and the second header frame 206 when they are aligned with each other. In this embodiment, when the pin is disposed through a corresponding through hole in each of the first header frame 204 and the second header frame 206, the header frame assembly will be locked. However, if the pin is removed from one of the corresponding through holes, the header frame assembly may pivot as described above.

[0073] Although a particular type of locking mechanism is described above, the present disclosure is not limited to this mechanism, and other locking devices are also contemplated. More specifically, a hydraulic or mechanical brake may be provided between the first header frame 204 and the second header frame 206 to limit relative movement. Additionally, in another embodiment, a wedge may be provided between the first header frame 204 and the second header frame 206 to limit relative movement. Thus, the present disclosure is not limited to any particular locking mechanism.

[0074] Although the embodiments incorporating the principles of the present disclosure have been described above, the present disclosure is not limited to the described embodiments. Alternatively, the present application is intended to cover any variant form, use form or modified form of the present disclosure using its overall principles. In addition, the present application is intended to cover these deviations from the present disclosure within the known practice or convention within the limits of the appended claims relative to the field to which the present invention belongs and falls.

Claims

1. A cotton harvester system, comprising: A working machine, the working machine comprising: at least one ground engaging mechanism capable of moving the cotton harvester system over the ground; and an operator cab housing a plurality of controls for the cotton harvester system; A header unit, the header unit comprising: a first frame configured to be removably coupled to the work machine; a second frame pivotally coupled to the first frame about a pivot axis; and a plurality of row units, the plurality of row units being coupled to the header unit; wherein the second frame is pivotable relative to the first frame; and wherein the pivot axis is not oriented to pass through the first frame or the second frame, The pivot axis is parallel to the front-rear direction of the working machine and is defined at a position away from the first frame and the second frame and toward the ground.

2. The cotton harvester system according to claim 1, further wherein: The first framework includes: a single water connection; and Single hydraulic coupler; Wherein, all of the plurality of row units are coupled to the work machine via the single water coupler and the single hydraulic coupler.

3. The cotton harvester system according to claim 1, further comprising: at least one sliding joint pivotally coupling the first frame to the second frame; Wherein, the at least one sliding joint includes an arc-shaped opening defined in the second frame and a sliding member connected to the first frame.

4. The cotton harvester system according to claim 1, wherein: The second framework also includes: a first header cross member; a second header cross member spaced apart from the first header cross member and coupled to the first header cross member; a first sliding joint slidably coupling the second header cross member to the first frame; a second sliding joint slidably coupling the first header cross member to the first frame; and A third sliding joint slidably couples the first header cross member to the first frame.

5. The cotton harvester system of claim 1 further comprising a linear actuator pivotally coupled to the first frame at a first end and pivotally coupled to the second frame at a second end, wherein: The linear actuator articulates to pivot the second frame relative to the first frame about the pivot axis.

6. The cotton harvester system according to claim 1, further comprising: a connecting rod assembly connected to the first frame; at least one top link coupling the first frame to the work machine; at least one linear actuator coupling the first frame to the work machine; as well as a subframe pivotally coupling the first frame to the work machine; wherein the top link adjusts the fore-and-aft direction of the header unit relative to the work machine, and the linear actuator raises and lowers the header unit relative to the work machine.

7. The cotton harvester system of claim 5, comprising a ground sensor disposed on at least one row unit, wherein: The linear actuator articulates in response to the ground sensor approaching the ground.

8. A cotton picker unit lifting structure, the cotton picker unit lifting structure comprising: First frame; a second frame having a first header cross member and a second header cross member, the second frame being pivotally coupled to the first frame about a pivot axis; as well as at least one row unit, the at least one row unit coupled to the second frame; wherein the pivot axis is not oriented to pass through the first frame or the second frame, The pivot axis is parallel to the front-rear direction of the working machine and is defined at a position away from the first frame and the second frame and toward the ground.

9. The cotton harvester unit lifting structure according to claim 8, further comprising: a first sliding joint slidably coupling the first frame to the first header cross member; as well as A second sliding joint slidably couples the first frame to the second header cross member.

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