System and method for improving fire safety of agricultural machinery

Abstract

A system for improving fire safety in an agricultural machine is configured to detect, at least partially control, and / or suppress an adverse fire-related condition. The adverse fire-related condition can include a spark, ember, and / or flame in the agricultural machine.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application. The original application has the application number 201880098151.1, the international application number PCT / US2018 / 058903, the application date is November 2, 2018, and the invention title is "System and method for improving fire safety of agricultural machinery".

[0002] Cross-references to related applications

[0003] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 736,503, filed September 26, 2018, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0004] The present invention relates generally to the detection and / or suppression of sparks, embers and / or flames, and more specifically to such detection and / or suppression in agricultural machinery. Background Technology

[0005] Modern farms typically use agricultural machinery to improve efficiency. Uncontrolled fires involving certain types of agricultural machinery can result in total loss of the machinery, crop damage, and personal injury. Often, after such a fire, there may not be readily available spare or redundant agricultural machinery that can be easily used as a backup.

[0006] As an example, vehicles configured for harvesting cotton (e.g., “cotton harvesters”) can be relatively susceptible to fire because raw cotton (e.g., harvested cotton that has not yet been ginned) typically exhibits extreme flammability and is naturally very hydrophobic (e.g., actively repelling water).

[0007] Therefore, there is a need for systems and methods to improve the fire safety of agricultural machinery (e.g., but not limited to cotton harvesters). Summary of the Invention

[0008] Therefore, one aspect of this disclosure is to provide systems and methods for improving fire safety of agricultural machinery. As a more specific example, one aspect of this disclosure is to provide systems and methods for detecting, at least partially controlling, and / or suppressing adverse fire-related conditions (e.g., sparks, embers, and / or flames) in agricultural harvesters (e.g., but not limited to cotton harvesters).

[0009] On the other hand, a vehicle configured to at least partially handle harvested planting material and at least partially control any sparks, embers, and / or flames associated with said planting material may include: a chassis; a material handling unit supported by said chassis and configured to at least partially define a flow path for transporting the harvested planting material; a pump supported by said chassis and configured to supply a liquid extinguishing agent under pressure when said pump is operated; and a first nozzle and a second nozzle configured to discharge said extinguishing agent. The first nozzle and the second nozzle may each be mounted to said material handling unit and connected to said pump for receiving said liquid extinguishing agent under pressure from said pump and discharging said liquid extinguishing agent into said flow path. The first nozzle may be configured to discharge said extinguishing agent with a spray pattern having a central axis extending outward from said first nozzle in a first direction. The second nozzle may be configured to discharge said extinguishing agent with a spray pattern having a central axis extending outward from said second nozzle in a second direction. The first direction and the second direction may be different from each other. A controller may be configured to initiate operation of said pump.

[0010] The material handling unit may be an accumulator configured to repeatedly accumulate and discharge harvested plant material. As another example, the material handling unit may be a module builder. The first nozzle and the second nozzle may be configured to discharge into the accumulator and / or the module builder.

[0011] The detector can be configured to detect at least one predetermined fire-related condition in the flow path. Optionally, the controller can be configured to activate the pump in response to a signal from the detector.

[0012] The machinery may be positioned within the flow path and configured to rotate and potentially generate sparks when engaged by any rocks and / or metal debris in the flow path. The machinery is typically positioned upstream of the first and second nozzles in the flow path. The machinery may be part of a cleaner configured to at least partially clean the planting material. As another example, the machinery may be part of a harvesting device configured to harvest the planting material and supply it to the flow path.

[0013] On the other hand, a vehicle configured to at least partially handle harvested planting material and at least partially control any sparks, embers, and / or flames associated with said planting material may include: a chassis; a module builder supported by said chassis and configured to receive the harvested planting material and form the harvested planting material into modules within a first portion inside said module builder; and a nozzle mounted to said module builder and configured to receive extinguishing agent under pressure and discharge said extinguishing agent into a second portion inside said module builder. The first and second portions inside may be adjacent to each other. The nozzle may be configured to discharge said extinguishing agent in a pattern consisting substantially of mist and / or fog.

[0014] The module builder may include a plurality of strips configured to extend at least partially around the module. At least a portion of one of the strips may be positioned between the first and second portions within the module.

[0015] In another aspect, a vehicle configured to at least partially handle harvested planting material and at least partially control any sparks, embers, and / or flames associated with said planting material may include: a chassis; an accumulator supported by said chassis and configured to repeatedly accumulate and discharge harvested planting material; a first nozzle mounted to a side wall of said accumulator and configured to receive extinguishing agent under pressure and discharge said extinguishing agent into the interior of said accumulator; and a second nozzle mounted to a top wall of said accumulator and configured to receive extinguishing agent under pressure and discharge said extinguishing agent into the interior of said accumulator.

[0016] The second nozzle may be configured to discharge the extinguishing agent in a hollow spray pattern. The first nozzle may be configured to discharge the extinguishing agent in the hollow region of the hollow spray pattern.

[0017] In another aspect, a vehicle configured to at least partially handle harvested crop material and at least partially control any sparks, embers, and / or flames associated with said crop material may include: a chassis; an accumulator supported by said chassis and configured to repeatedly accumulate and discharge harvested crop material; and a nozzle assembly comprising a body mounted to an outer surface of a sidewall of said accumulator, and further comprising a nozzle mounted in a recess in said body, the nozzle being configured to receive extinguishing agent through said body under pressure. The recess in said body may open to an opening in said sidewall to at least partially facilitate the nozzle being configured to discharge the extinguishing agent into the interior of said accumulator.

[0018] In another aspect, a vehicle configured to at least partially handle harvested crop material and at least partially control any sparks, embers, and / or flames associated with said crop material may include: a chassis; an accumulator supported by said chassis and configured to repeatedly accumulate and discharge harvested crop material; and a nozzle assembly including a body mounted to an inner surface of a sidewall of said accumulator, and a nozzle mounted to said body configured to receive extinguishing agent through said body under pressure. The nozzle may be configured to discharge the extinguishing agent into the interior of said accumulator in a spray pattern. The nozzle may be mounted to an inclined portion of said body such that the spray pattern has an inclined central axis.

[0019] The nozzle and the body may be cooperatively configured such that the inclined central axis of the spray pattern extends toward a vertical corner within the accumulator. As another example, the nozzle and the body may be cooperatively configured such that the inclined central axis of the spray pattern extends toward a hollow region of a hollow spray pattern from another nozzle of the vehicle.

[0020] On the other hand, a vehicle configured to at least partially handle harvested plant material may include: a chassis; a plurality of material handling units supported by the chassis, configured to cooperatively move the harvested plant material along the flow path and configured to be connected in series along the flow path, wherein the plurality of material handling units include a first material handling unit and a downstream material handling unit, the first material handling unit including machinery positioned in the flow path and configured to rotate and potentially generate sparks when engaged by any rock and / or metal debris in the flow path, the downstream material handling unit including a duct positioned downstream of the first material handling unit; a fan supported by the chassis, wherein the fan is in fluid communication with the duct and configured to at least partially cause the harvested plant material to be conveyed along at least a portion of the flow path within the duct; and a detector configured to detect at least one predetermined fire-related condition within the duct and provide a signal including data indicating any detection of the at least one predetermined fire-related condition within the duct.

[0021] On the other hand, a vehicle configured to at least partially handle harvested planting material may include: a chassis; a plurality of material handling units supported by the chassis, configured to cooperatively move the harvested planting material along the flow path, and configured to be connected in series along the flow path, wherein the plurality of material handling units include accumulators configured to repeatedly accumulate and repeatedly discharge the harvested planting material; and detectors configured to detect at least one predetermined fire-related condition within the accumulators and provide signals including data indicating any detection of the at least one predetermined fire-related condition within the accumulators.

[0022] Another aspect of this disclosure is to provide a method for at least partially controlling any fire-related conditions in a vehicle configured to at least partially handle harvested planting materials. The method may include: operating a plurality of material handling units supported by the chassis of the vehicle, such that the plurality of material handling units cooperatively move harvested plant material along the flow path, wherein the plurality of material handling units are configured in series along the flow path, the plurality of material handling units including an upstream material handling unit and a downstream material handling unit, each of the upstream material handling unit and the downstream material handling unit including a respective chamber, the flow path extending through the chambers, and the upstream material handling unit being located upstream of the downstream material handling unit along the flow path; discharging a fire extinguishing agent into the chamber of the upstream material handling unit; discharging a fire extinguishing agent into the chamber of the downstream material handling unit; transporting the harvested plant material from the upstream material handling unit to the downstream material handling unit along a portion of the flow path; stopping the discharging of the fire extinguishing agent into the chamber of the upstream material handling unit; and after stopping the discharging of the fire extinguishing agent into the chamber of the upstream material handling unit, stopping the discharging of the fire extinguishing agent into the chamber of the downstream material handling unit.

[0023] The foregoing description provides several brief examples and is not exhaustive, and the invention is not limited to the foregoing examples. The foregoing examples and other examples are further explained in the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0024] The accompanying drawings are provided by way of example and are generally schematic and may not be drawn to scale. The invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the examples depicted in the drawings.

[0025] Figure 1 This is a right-side elevation view of an agricultural harvester in the form of a cotton-removing machine according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein some features that are not normally visible are depicted with dashed lines.

[0026] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A partial cross-sectional right elevation view of a portion of a harvester, wherein the right side of the harvester has been removed to show the internal features of the harvester, wherein the corresponding left elevation view of the same portion of the harvester cut apart is essentially the same. Figure 2 The mirror image, and some features that are not usually visible are depicted with dashed lines.

[0027] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Another right-hand vertical view of a part of a harvester, in which some features that are not usually visible are depicted with dashed lines.

[0028] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A left front view of part of the front end of a harvester.

[0029] Figure 5 A first embodiment is shown. Figure 1 The view of the harvester's control cabinet is essentially detached, with the normally closed control cabinet in an open configuration to reveal some of its contents.

[0030] Figure 6 According to the first embodiment Figure 1 A separate view of a portion of the harvester's piping system, in which Figure 6 The part depicted is located outside the control cabinet and connected to the suppression pump inside the control cabinet, used to supply liquid extinguishing agent to the corresponding nozzles in the harvester.

[0031] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 A right front view of a portion of the front end of a harvester, where some features that are not normally visible are depicted with dashed lines.

[0032] Figure 8 According to the first embodiment Figure 3 A frontal view of a portion of the front end of a harvester, showing a portion of the upstream pipe, and a portion of the field of view of the optical detector schematically shown by dashed lines.

[0033] Figure 9 yes Figure 1 The right view of the upper central section of the harvester, where some features that are not usually visible are depicted with dashed lines.

[0034] Figure 10 yes Figure 1 A separate right sectional view of the accumulator of a harvester, wherein a separate left sectional view may be... Figure 10 The mirror image.

[0035] Figure 11 yes Figure 1A front sectional view of the accumulator of a harvester separated from its components.

[0036] Figure 12 yes Figure 1 A separate top sectional view of the accumulator of a harvester.

[0037] Figure 13 yes Figure 1 An upward view of the accumulator inside the harvester, where Figure 13 The upper right nozzle assembly is shown, and therein, corresponding to Figure 13 The view (other than the view obtained from the opposite side) can be Figure 13 The mirror image.

[0038] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 A diagram showing the separation of the upper right nozzle assembly.

[0039] Figure 15 yes Figure 14 The left elevation view of the upper right nozzle assembly, where the dashed lines schematically show additional hidden boreholes and fluid delivery channels.

[0040] Figure 16 yes Figure 14 The front elevation view of the nozzle assembly, wherein the rear elevation view of the nozzle assembly may be... Figure 16 The image is a mirror image, and the dashed lines schematically show other hidden threaded holes.

[0041] Figure 17 yes Figure 1 A top view of a portion of the accumulator of a harvester, where some hidden features are depicted by dashed lines.

[0042] Figure 18 is from Figure 1 A downward view inside the accumulator of the harvester, wherein the view corresponding to FIG18 (except for the view taken from the opposite side) may be a mirror image of FIG18.

[0043] Figure 19 is Figure 1 A diagram showing the separation of the lower nozzle assembly of the accumulator of a harvester.

[0044] Figure 20 yes Figure 1 A detached front view of a portion of a harvester's modular builder (e.g., a baler), in which dotted lines schematically depict a portion of the spray pattern.

[0045] Figure 21 Representative of the first embodiment Figure 20 The diagram shows the nozzle assembly separated from the nozzle assembly in the middle section.

[0046] Figure 22 yes Figure 1The right external view of the harvester's module builder, wherein a similar left external view of the module builder is substantially similar to... Figure 22 .

[0047] Figure 23 According to the first embodiment Figure 22 The diagram in the middle shows the separation of the nozzle assembly.

[0048] Figure 24 According to the first embodiment Figure 1 A substantially separate frontal view of a portion of the downstream pipe of the harvester, in which dashed lines schematically depict the field of view of the optical detector.

[0049] Figure 25 Similar to Figure 11 The difference is that, for example, according to the first embodiment, dashed lines schematically depict a portion of the field of view of the optical detector.

[0050] Figure 26 Similar to Figure 11 The difference is that, for example, according to the first embodiment, dashed lines schematically show a portion of the field of view of the optical detector, and the feeder axis is omitted to make the view clear.

[0051] Figure 27 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the nozzle in its closed configuration according to the first embodiment.

[0052] Figure 28 The first embodiment is shown in its open configuration and positioned in Figure 1 The holes in the top wall of the accumulator of the harvester Figure 27 The nozzle, in which a portion of the pipe fitting is disassembled from the nozzle fitting.

[0053] Figure 29 Similar to Figure 10 The difference is that, for example, according to the first embodiment, a portion of the spray pattern is schematically depicted by dashed lines.

[0054] Figure 30 Similar to Figure 11 The difference is that, for example, according to the first embodiment, a portion of the spray pattern is schematically depicted by dashed lines.

[0055] Figure 31 Similar to Figure 12 The difference is that, for example, according to the first embodiment, a portion of the spray pattern is schematically depicted by dashed lines.

[0056] Figure 32 Similar to Figure 10The difference is that, for example, according to the first embodiment, a portion of the spray pattern is schematically depicted by dashed lines.

[0057] Figure 33 Similar to Figure 11 The difference is that, for example, according to the first embodiment, a portion of the spray pattern is schematically depicted by dashed lines.

[0058] Figure 34 Similar to Figure 12 The difference is that, for example, according to the first embodiment, a portion of the spray pattern is schematically depicted by dashed lines.

[0059] Figure 35 Similar to Figure 10 The difference is that, for example, according to the first embodiment, a portion of the spray pattern is schematically depicted by dashed lines.

[0060] Figure 36 Similar to Figure 11 The difference is that, for example, according to the first embodiment, a portion of the spray pattern is schematically depicted by dashed lines.

[0061] Figure 37 Similar to Figure 12 The difference is that, for example, according to the first embodiment, a portion of the spray pattern is schematically depicted by dashed lines.

[0062] Figure 38 This is a separate view of the main body of the lower nozzle assembly according to FIG19 of the first embodiment.

[0063] Figure 39 Similar to Figure 11 The difference is that, for example, according to the first embodiment, a portion of the spray pattern is schematically depicted by dashed lines. Detailed Implementation

[0064] Examples of embodiments are disclosed below. However, the invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. For example, features disclosed as part of one embodiment or example may be used in the context of another embodiment or example to produce another embodiment or example. As another example of the breadth of this disclosure, one or more of the terms “substantially,” “about,” “approximately,” etc., are used within the scope of this disclosure to define each adjective and adverb in the Detailed Description section of this disclosure, as discussed in more detail below.

[0065] One aspect of this disclosure may be providing systems and methods for detecting, at least partially controlling, and / or suppressing adverse fire-related conditions (e.g., sparks, embers, and / or flames) in agricultural machinery, such as vehicles configured to handle harvested crop material (e.g., harvesters, combine harvesters, and / or cotton harvesters). In a first embodiment of this disclosure, both the system for detecting adverse conditions and the system for at least partially controlling and / or suppressing adverse conditions are incorporated into the agricultural machinery in the form of a vehicle configured for harvesting (e.g., a "harvester"), wherein the harvester is a conventional JOHN DEERE CS690 cotton thresher prior to modification with the detection and suppression system. Nevertheless, various different configurations of agricultural machinery (e.g., harvesters and / or vehicles configured to handle harvested crop material) are within the scope of this disclosure.

[0066] The suppression system of the first embodiment is configured and operated such that it at least partially controls and / or suppresses, including discharging one or more liquid extinguishing agents (e.g., liquid extinguishing agents) in various predetermined and coordinated manners, to at least partially control and / or suppress sparks, embers, and / or flames at predetermined locations in, on, and / or around the harvester. The extinguishing agent of the first embodiment is typically water-based. Alternatively, other types of extinguishing agents are believed to be usable.

[0067] In one of the several different examples of the operation suppression system discussed in more detail below, the operation of the suppression system may be manually and / or automatically activated in response to the detection system detecting one or more fire-related conditions associated with the harvester. Optionally, the automatic detection system or parts thereof may be omitted. More generally, although various combinations of features are described in this disclosure, sub-combinations of these features are also within the scope of this disclosure.

[0068] For ease of understanding and to provide a reference framework that is considered to be used substantially consistently in the detailed embodiments section of this disclosure, it is noted that Figure 1 This is a right-hand elevation view of the harvester 10 of the first embodiment, and it should also be noted that an observer standing in front of the harvester and looking towards the front of the harvester will see a front view of the harvester 10. Based on the reference frame provided in the preceding sentences, it is believed that the convention of "multi-view projection" will be used substantially consistently in the detailed description section of this disclosure.

[0069] Figure 1 The harvester 10 shown is an example of a vehicle configured to at least partially handle harvested planting material, and other examples of such vehicles are within the scope of this disclosure. More specifically, Figure 1An example of a vehicle in the form of a cotton harvester 10, which can be used to harvest plant material, is shown. The harvested plant material may include mature cotton bolls and associated debris (e.g., green cotton bolls and the stems and leaves of the cotton plant). Mature cotton bolls comprise the final product that typically constitutes the output of harvester 10 (e.g., bales 336). Figure 2 Most of the raw cotton (e.g., cotton fibers with seeds), which will be discussed in more detail below.

[0070] exist Figure 1 In the example, the chassis of harvester 10 includes a frame supported by front and rear wheels 12. Typically, at least one pair of wheels 12 is steerable. The harvester frame may include a horizontally extending platform 14 (e.g., a deck), which may be configured to serve as a primary support structure for components of harvester 10. U.S. Patent 7,631,716 is believed to disclose examples of suitable chassis (e.g., wheels 12, platform 14, and / or other suitable frame components).

[0071] Continue to refer to Figure 1 An engine compartment 16 may be supported beneath the frame platform 14. The engine compartment 16 may contain a gasoline or diesel engine configured to drive one or more hydraulic pumps. The hydraulic pumps may be part of a conventional hydraulic drive system for driving various hydraulic actuators (e.g., hydraulic motors and hydraulic cylinders) configured to drive corresponding components of the harvester 10. For example, any suitable number of wheels 12 may be driven by a hydraulic motor. A cab 18 with a glass window may be supported on top of the front of the frame platform 14 to accommodate at least one user who can operate the harvester 10's controllers, for example, to control the harvester 10's speed and direction of travel.

[0072] The harvester 10 can be described as having a plurality of material handling units supported by a chassis (e.g., wheels 12 and platform 14) and configured to cooperatively define at least one material flow path for harvested crop material. In a first embodiment, when the harvester 10 is in harvesting configuration, as discussed in more detail below, the material handling units are arranged in series along the harvester's material flow path such that at least a significant percentage of the harvested cotton passes through the material handling units in series.

[0073] In the following text, a high-level description of the material handling unit of the harvester 10 is followed by a high-level description of the harvester's suppression and detection system. The detection and suppression system, as well as some features of the harvester 10, are then discussed in more detail.

[0074] Generally, it can be referred to Figure 1To understand the high-level overview of the material handling unit of the harvester 10, the material handling unit may include a conventional harvesting device 20, a conventional separator 22 (e.g., a separation chamber), an upstream conduit 24, a conventional intermediate conduit 26, a conventional field cleaner 28, a downstream conduit 30, an accumulator 32, a module builder 34 (e.g., a baler), and a conventional unloader 36, arranged in series along and at least partially defining the material flow path of the harvester. In a first embodiment, the upstream conduit 24, the downstream conduit 30, the accumulator 32, and the module builder 34 are conventional before modification with a detection and suppression system.

[0075] exist Figure 2 In the partial sectional view shown, unnumbered arrows schematically depict some material flow paths of the harvester that extend at least partially through some of the material handling units 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, and 34. One or more material handling units may be arranged differently, one or more material handling units may be omitted, different types of material handling units may be included, and there may be more than one of each type (e.g., arranged in parallel).

[0076] exist Figure 1 In the example, harvesting device 20 defines the upstream end of the material flow path of the harvester, and the harvesting device is configured to collect planting material by “strip harvesting” cotton plants. The harvesting device 20 of the first embodiment is configured such that the strip harvesting performed typically includes collecting at least mature bolls, green bolls, and stems and leaves of the cotton plant. Green bolls, stems, and leaves may be referred to as debris, and additional debris (e.g., any rocks, dirt, metal scraps, and / or other debris in the field being harvested) can be drawn into the material flow path of the harvester through harvesting device 20, as will be discussed in more detail below. As will also be discussed in more detail below, harvesting device 20 may be configured differently for collecting planting material in different ways.

[0077] The material flow path of the harvester extends from the harvesting device 20 to the separator 22, such that the separator receives mature bolls and any associated debris. The separator 22 and related features are constructed in such a way that mature bolls are kept in the material flow path of the harvester, and relatively heavy and / or dense debris (e.g., compared to mature bolls) is allowed to fall off the material flow path of the harvester, as will be discussed in more detail below.

[0078] The material flow path of the harvester can extend from the separator 22 to the upstream pipe 24 and from the upstream pipe to the intermediate pipe 26, such that the upstream pipe and the intermediate pipe receive mature bolls and any accompanying debris. The intermediate pipe 26 is constructed in such a way that mature bolls are kept in the material flow path of the harvester, and relatively small debris (e.g., compared to mature bolls) is allowed to flow upward out of the material flow path of the harvester, as will be discussed in more detail below.

[0079] The material flow path of the harvester can extend from the intermediate conduit 26 to the cleaner 28 (e.g., a field cleaner), such that the cleaner receives mature cotton bolls and any accompanying debris. The cleaner 28 is configured to at least partially separate the raw cotton fibers containing seeds from the mature cotton bolls from the accompanying debris. The separated debris typically includes at least some remaining portions of the mature cotton bolls that are not cotton fibers, as will be discussed in more detail below.

[0080] The material flow path of the harvester can extend from the cleaner 28 to the interior space of the chamber of the accumulator 32 (e.g., the accumulator chamber). Occasionally, the rotating machinery in the harvesting device 20 and / or the field cleaner 28 may engage any rocks, metal scraps, and / or any other type of debris contained within the material flow path of the harvester. Any such engagement can generate sparks, allowing sparks or embers to become trapped in the material flow path of the harvester. These sparks and embers can interact with the harvested crop material in the accumulator chamber and cause a fire, as discussed in more detail below. It is well known that fires originating from the accumulator chamber can spread and lead to the complete destruction of a conventional harvester. As another example, sparks, embers, and / or fires in a harvester are thought to be caused by a variety of other factors, including equipment malfunction, and possibly lightning strikes, static electricity, etc.

[0081] The material flow path of the harvester can extend from the accumulator 32 to the interior space of the chamber (e.g., the "baler chamber") of the module builder 34. That is, the module builder 34 (e.g., the baler) receives cotton fibers containing seeds and associated residual debris (collectively, "raw cotton"). The accumulator 32 is configured to serially accumulate batches of raw cotton in a repeating manner and to serially supply batches to the module builder 34. The module builder 34 is configured to form each batch of raw cotton into a module (e.g., a rectangular, cylindrical, or other appropriately configured bale 336). Figure 2 The resulting modules are continuously discharged to the unloader 36 in a repetitive manner, as will be discussed in more detail below.

[0082] The relative configuration of material handling units 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, and 36 can be compared with... Figure 1 and Figure 2The differences are shown. For example, as... Figure 3 As shown, typically at least 20 harvesting devices are used. Figure 1 The separator 22 and the separator 22 can be removed from the rest of the harvester 10. Furthermore, Figures 1 to 3 A harvester 10 is depicted at its relatively high or "harvesting configuration," wherein the harvester is configured to collect planting material, at least partially clean the planting material, and discharge modules (e.g., bales 336) of at least partially cleaned planting material (e.g., "raw cotton"). Conversely, and as... Figure 4 As shown in the diagram, the harvester 10 may have a relatively low "public road configuration" or "transport configuration". A method for switching to the transport configuration may include lowering the upper part of the accumulator 32.

[0083] although Figure 3 A pair of hydraulic actuators 38 for raising and lowering the upper part of the accumulator 32 are shown, but Figure 1 The forward-facing actuator of these actuators is omitted to expose features that would otherwise be at least partially hidden from view (e.g., spark or ember detector 70). Figure 4 As schematically shown by double-ended arrow 39, relative movement may exist between the upper part of the downstream pipe 30 and the accumulator 32 for connecting and disconnecting therebetween.

[0084] A high-level overview of the suppression system of the first embodiment, configured to at least partially control and / or suppress unfavorable fire-related conditions (e.g., sparks, embers, and / or flames) in accumulator chambers (e.g., chambers of accumulator 32), baler chambers (e.g., chambers of module builder 34), and / or other suitable locations. See also... Figure 4 The suppression system may include one or more tanks 40 for containing a liquid extinguishing agent (e.g., water or an water-based solution) for at least partially controlling and / or suppressing sparks, embers, and / or flames (e.g., adverse fire-related conditions) at predetermined locations within, above, and around the harvester 10. In a first embodiment, the tank 40 may be supplemented with at least one other tank (not shown) that is a conventional component of the harvester 10. More generally, the suppression system may include one or more tanks 40 and / or other tanks (not shown) for containing a liquid extinguishing agent. At least one of the other tanks may be a conventional component of the harvester 10 and is configured to contain water or an water-based solution for at least partially controlling and / or suppressing sparks, embers, and / or flames.

[0085] exist Figure 4 In the example, the support frame 41 mounted to the left side of platform 14 is configured to both securely hold tank 40 and allow the tank to be removed from harvester 10 during "transport configurations," etc. Figure 4In the diagram, the support frame 41 is depicted as including cantilever supports located below and supporting the tank 40, and a bracket including a belt configured to hold the tank in place on the cantilever supports. The cantilever supports and brackets are typically mounted to the harvester 10 by removable fasteners (e.g., bolts and / or any other suitable fasteners) such that at least a portion of the support frame 41 (e.g., the cantilever supports and associated brackets) can be conveniently removed from the harvester 10 during "transport configurations" and the like.

[0086] Reference Figure 5 The motor-operated suppression pumps 42, 44, and 46 receive liquid extinguishing agents (e.g., "extinguishing agents") from tank 40 and / or other sources via one or more piping networks that may include filters and / or filter fittings (not shown). Throughout the Detailed Description section of this disclosure, "piping" is intended to broadly include suitable piping configured for the pressurized delivery of liquid extinguishing agents (e.g., with their respective features set in fluid communication with each other). The extinguishing agent of the first embodiment is water or water-based. One or more additives, such as suitable flame retardants, may be added to the water. Although the extinguishing agent of the first embodiment is in liquid form, it is thought that one or more alternative embodiments may optionally use gaseous extinguishing agents and / or those extinguishing agent products commonly referred to as wet or dry chemical agents. However, the use of water or water-based extinguishing agents may be advantageous because, for example, water is relatively readily available.

[0087] The electrically operated suppression pumps 42, 44, and 46 can be operated to pressurize the extinguishing agent, so that the extinguishing agent is supplied through the corresponding connecting path to the retractable / extendable hose 48. Figures 1 to 3 and Figure 7 The system includes a plurality of nozzles for the suppression system. In a first embodiment, the suppression system includes sixteen nozzles of six different types, but different numbers and types are also within the scope of this disclosure. The nozzles may be configured to discharge extinguishing agent into a predetermined portion of the material flow path of the harvester for at least partially controlling and / or suppressing any sparks, embers and / or flames (e.g., adverse fire-related conditions) in the predetermined portion of the material flow path of the harvester.

[0088] Reference Figure 2 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 and Figure 13 One or more nozzles 50 may be installed in a corresponding upper region of the accumulator 32, and they may be referred to as central upper accumulator suppressor nozzles. The central upper accumulator suppressor nozzles 50 may be configured to spray extinguishing agent at least downward into the interior space of the accumulator chamber (e.g., the chamber of the accumulator 32), which will be discussed in more detail below.

[0089] Reference Figure 2 and Figures 10 to 13 One or more upper nozzles or upper nozzle assemblies 52 may be installed in the opposite upper region of the accumulator 32. (See reference...) Figures 14 to 16 Each upper nozzle assembly 52 may include an intermediate nozzle 54 positioned between the front nozzle 56 and the rear nozzle 56. Each nozzle 54, 56 may be referred to as an accumulator suppression nozzle, and each nozzle may be configured to spray extinguishing agent at least partially downward into the interior space of the accumulator chamber, which will be discussed in more detail below.

[0090] Reference Figure 2 As shown in Figures 18 and 19, one or more lateral lower nozzles, or lower nozzle assemblies 58, may be installed in the relatively lower region of the accumulator 32, and they may be referred to as lateral lower accumulator suppressor nozzles or lower nozzle assemblies. Referring to Figure 19, each lower nozzle assembly 58 may include an upper nozzle 60 and a lower nozzle 62. Each nozzle 60, 62 may be referred to as an accumulator suppressor nozzle, and each nozzle may be configured to spray extinguishing agent at least laterally into the interior space of the accumulator chamber, as will be discussed in more detail below.

[0091] The suppression pump 42 of the first embodiment ( Figure 5 This is part of a relatively high-flow, medium-pressure, fire-making system (e.g., an "accumulator suppression subsystem") for accumulator 32. The accumulator suppression subsystem of the first embodiment includes accumulator suppression nozzles 50, 54, 56, 60, 62 (e.g., an accumulator suppression pump 42 supplies extinguishing agent to them under pressure).

[0092] Figure 6 A portion of the liquid distribution (e.g., piping) network 100 of the accumulator suppression subsystem of the first embodiment is shown. Figure 3 An example is shown in which the tubing 100 is at least partially positioned in the middle portion of, near, adjacent to, the cleaner 28 and the accumulator chamber (e.g., the chamber of the accumulator 32) or in the space between them, positioned below the accumulator chamber, and / or positioned in any other suitable location.

[0093] For reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 As best understood, the accumulator suppression conduit 100 of the first embodiment includes at least one supply conduit 102 having an upstream end connected to the outlet of the accumulator suppression pump 42 and a downstream end connected via a tee fitting to an upper conduit system 104 and at least one intermediate conduit 106. The at least one upper conduit system 104 can supply extinguishing agent under pressure from the accumulator suppression pump 42 to upper accumulator suppression nozzles 50, 54, 56. The intermediate conduit 106 may include or have at least one filter or filter fitting 108 and / or valve 110 connected thereto for restricting flow through the intermediate conduit when the accumulator suppression pump 42 is not operating.

[0094] The downstream end of intermediate conduit 106 can be connected to one or more lower conduit systems 112 via a tee fitting. The lower conduit systems 112 can supply extinguishing agent under pressure from the accumulator suppression pump 42 to the lower nozzle assemblies 58 (e.g., lower accumulator suppression nozzles 60, 62). Figure 3 In the middle, a portion of the support legs of the lower piping system 112 is concealed behind the conventional panel of the harvester 10. Therefore, the concealed portion of the support legs of the lower piping system 112 is... Figure 3 It is depicted schematically by dashed lines.

[0095] Reference Figure 2 , Figure 20 and Figure 21 One or more lower nozzles 64 may be installed in the opposite lower region of the module builder 34 (e.g., a baler), and they may be referred to as lower baler suppression nozzles. (See reference...) Figure 2 and Figure 23 One or more upper nozzles 66 may be installed in the opposite upper region of the module builder 34, and they may be referred to as upper baler suppression nozzles. Baler suppression nozzles 64, 66 may be installed in the opposite upper and lower parts of opposite sides of the module builder 34, respectively. Baler suppression nozzles 64, 66 may be configured to spray extinguishing agent at least laterally into the interior space of the module builder 34, which will be discussed in more detail below.

[0096] The suppression pump 44 of the first embodiment ( Figure 5 This is part of a relatively high-pressure, low-flow fire-making system (e.g., a "baler suppression subsystem") used in a module builder. The baler suppression subsystem of the first embodiment includes a baler suppression nozzle 64 (e.g., the module builder or baler suppression pump 44 supplies extinguishing agent to the baler suppression nozzle 64 under pressure). See also... Figure 3 At least one pipe or pipe system 114 of the baler suppression subsystem can supply extinguishing agent under pressure from the baler suppression pump 44 to the baler suppression nozzles 64, 66. The location of the pipes disclosed herein can vary depending on various factors, such as the type and construction of the agricultural vehicle, harvester, etc. For example, in Figure 3 One or more of the piping systems 104, 114, or portions thereof, shown on the right side of the harvester 10 may alternatively be located on the left side of the harvester.

[0097] The fire suppression pump 46 of the first embodiment is part of a relatively medium-flow fire suppression system (e.g., a "fire suppression subsystem") for at least partially controlling and / or suppressing ignition on and / or around a harvester. The fire suppression subsystem of the first embodiment includes a hose 48 located on a reel (e.g., the fire suppression pump 46 supplies extinguishing agent to the hose 48 under pressure). Figures 1 to 3 and Figure 7 As shown, the nozzle 49 at the end of the hose ( Figure 7 (For example, a nozzle that can be manually operated by pressing and releasing a manually operated lever) may be connected to the free end of hose 48 for at least partial control and / or suppression of ignition on and / or around the harvester, as will be discussed in more detail below. As an example, the use of the term "relative" in relation to the fire suppression, accumulator suppression, and baler suppression subsystems can be understood in the context of comparing the fire suppression, accumulator suppression, and baler suppression subsystems to one another.

[0098] Reference Figure 7 At least one conduit or conduit system 116 of the fire suppression subsystem can supply extinguishing agent under pressure from the fire suppression pump 46 to the hose end nozzle 49 via a retractable / extendable hose 48. In one example, the hose 48 is a flexible hose of fifty feet or other suitable length that can be drawn from and wound back onto a reel (e.g., a retractable / extendable hose reel) as shown in the figures.

[0099] In some examples, the operation of one or more features of the suppression system (e.g., the operation of suppression pumps 42, 44, 46) may be manually initiated. In other examples, the operation of one or more features of the suppression system (e.g., the operation of suppression pumps 42, 44, 46) may be automatically initiated in response to the detection system detecting that a fire-related condition in a portion of the harvester's material flow path exceeds a predetermined threshold. In this regard, the detection system may include one or more detectors configured to attempt to detect fire-related conditions (e.g., predetermined electromagnetic radiation and / or heat). As a more specific example and according to the first embodiment, the detection system may include eight detectors configured to attempt to detect fire-related conditions (e.g., predetermined electromagnetic radiation and / or heat), and the detectors may be of different types. At least as reiterated from the foregoing, the inclusion of detectors may be optional, and various numbers, arrangements, and types of detectors, if present, are also within the scope of this disclosure.

[0100] The following is a high-level overview of the detection system in the first embodiment. Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 7 and Figure 8The detection system may include one or more detectors 68 installed to the upstream conduit 24, and the detectors 68 may be referred to as upstream detectors. The upstream detectors 68 may be configured in a manner that attempts to detect fire-related conditions (e.g., sparks and / or embers) in the internal path of the upstream conduit 24, as will be discussed in more detail below.

[0101] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 9 and Figure 24 In one or more diagrams, the detection system may include one or more detectors 70 installed to the downstream conduit 30, and the detectors 70 may be referred to as downstream detectors. The downstream detectors 70 may be configured in a manner that attempts to detect fire-related conditions (e.g., sparks and / or embers) in a defined internal path of the downstream conduit 30, as will be discussed in more detail below.

[0102] Reference Figure 2 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 , Figure 13 and Figure 17 As shown in one or more figures, the detection system may include one or more detectors 72 installed in the corresponding upper region of the accumulator 32, and these may be referred to as upper accumulator detectors. The upper accumulator detectors 72 may be configured in a manner that attempts to detect fire-related conditions (e.g., thermal radiation) in the interior space of the accumulator chamber (e.g., the chamber of the accumulator 32), which will be discussed in more detail below.

[0103] Reference Figure 10 , Figure 11 As shown in one or more figures in Figure 18, the detection system may include one or more detectors 74 mounted in a relatively lower region of the accumulator 32, and these may be referred to as lower accumulator detectors. The lower accumulator detectors 74 may be configured in a manner that attempts to detect fire-related conditions (e.g., embedded fires) in the interior space of the accumulator chamber, as will be discussed in more detail below.

[0104] In the first embodiment, each of detectors 68, 70, 72, and 74 may have a mounting to housing 78. Figure 8 , Figure 11 , Figure 17 and Figure 24 Lens assembly 76 ( Figure 8 , Figure 11 , Figure 13 and Figure 24The housing 78 contains other conventional components of the sensor and detector. The lens assembly 76 may include a tubular (e.g., generally cylindrical) tube having opposing proximal and distal ends. The proximal end may be mounted to the detector housing 78 and optically communicate with the sensor through an opening in the housing. The distal end may contain a lens or other suitable optics operatively associated at least with the sensor to provide a conical or truncated conical field of view for the detector. The field of view is typically the solid angle at which the detector is sensitive to electromagnetic radiation.

[0105] Reference Figure 5 The detection and suppression systems may each include, or share, at least one fire-resistant and / or fireproof control chamber, enclosure, housing, or container 80 of an enclosed (e.g., fully enclosed) motor-operated pump 42, 44, 46. The control container 80 typically also includes at least one battery (“System Battery 82”) for supplying power to the electrical components of the suppression and detection systems. The control container 80 typically also includes at least one controller (“System Controller 86”) for providing and receiving signals to and from the corresponding components of the suppression and detection systems. The control container 80 may include panels (e.g., top and bottom panels, right and left panels, and a rear panel) that collectively extend around the interior space of the control container, and the openings of the control container are openable and closable by doors associated with a latch for releasably securing the doors in their closed configuration.

[0106] Also refer to Figure 4 The control container 80 can be mounted, for example, by mounting a bracket to the frame platform 14, and can be positioned between the tank 40 and the accumulator 32. In the first embodiment, components of the suppression and detection system (e.g., components of the accumulator suppression, baler suppression, and fire point suppression subsystems) are located outside the control container 80. Figure 1 and Figure 5 It is usually made of at least fire-resistant and / or fireproof materials.

[0107] exist Figure 1 In the middle, the control container 80 is not visible; therefore, the control container and the system battery 82 are in Figure 1 The dashed lines are used to illustrate the point. This is for illustrative purposes and / or to provide alternative examples. Figure 1The control container 80 is depicted as being on the distal side (e.g., left side) of the cleaner 28. However, the control container 80 of the first embodiment is typically on the distal side (e.g., left side) of the accumulator 32, but different arrangements are also within the scope of this disclosure. The engine compartment 16 typically contains at least one suitable engine that drives an alternator or generator to charge at least one engine battery 84 contained in the engine compartment in a conventional manner. The engine battery 84 and the system battery 82 can be electrically connected to each other (e.g., in parallel) via a wire 90 connected therebetween, such that the system battery is charged via the engine battery and / or the alternator, generator, etc. More generally, the system battery 82 can be in electrical communication with the conventional electrical system of the harvester 10 to maintain the charge of the system battery 82. The system and engine batteries 82, 84 can each be 12-volt batteries, although different voltages may be suitable.

[0108] In the first embodiment, the system battery 82 is a dedicated battery for providing power to the detection and suppression system of the harvester 10. For example, in the event of a failure in any one or more of the power line 90, engine battery 84, alternator, generator, etc., the charged system battery 82 can provide power to the detection and suppression system of the harvester 10. Different types, numbers, and arrangements of batteries are within the scope of this disclosure.

[0109] Reference Figure 5 The system battery 82 can supply power (e.g., electrically connect to) the motors of each suppression pump 42, 44, 46 and the controller 86 via corresponding wiring (not shown) included in the control room 80. For each suppression pump 42, 44, 46, its electrical connection to the system battery 82 and located in the control room 80 may include a motor control switch (not shown) for opening and closing the circuit that electrically connects the pump and the system battery together. Each motor control switch may be a relay switch or a contactor, electrically connected via wiring (not shown) to the system controller 86, allowing the system controller to individually control the operation of the suppression pumps 42, 44, 46, as will be discussed in more detail below. Alternatively, there may be different numbers and arrangements of pumps, some of which may be controlled together by the same relay switch or contactor, etc.

[0110] System controller 86 may include at least one digital computer (e.g., a programmable logic controller) comprising one or more of, for example, a central processing unit or processor, computer hardware integrated circuits or memory, data storage, and / or device interfaces. For example, one or more device interfaces of system controller 86 may be operatively associated with motor control switches of suppression pumps 42, 44, 46 for controlling the operation of these switches, and thus controlling the operation of the suppression pumps. As another example, one or more device interfaces of system controller 86 may be connected to detectors 68, 70, 72, 74 respectively via wiring and / or any other suitable means. As another example, one or more device interfaces of system controller 86 may be operatively associated with one or more user interfaces 92 (… Figure 1 Associated with this, the one or more user interfaces 92 are configured to allow a user to provide commands and information to the system controller 86, and are configured to allow the system controller 86 to output information to the user. For example, input features of the user interface may include a keyboard, a cursor control device (e.g., a mouse), a touch-enabled visual display (e.g., a capacitive or other sensor configured to detect physical contact), and / or any other suitable device. As another example, output features of the user interface 92 may include a display device (e.g., a monitor or projector), a speaker (for providing fire alarm), and / or any other suitable device. The system controller 86 may be in the form of a distributed computing system; therefore, the features of the system controller 86 can be extended among individual computers, and each of these individual computers may be contained in a control container 80 and / or other suitable fireproof location.

[0111] exist Figure 1 In the example, the first user interface 92 may be mounted inside the cab 18 (e.g., near or adjacent to the steering wheel used to steer the harvester 10), and the second user interface 92 may be mounted to the frame platform 14 outside the cab (e.g., near or adjacent to the hose reel 48). Each of the user interfaces 92 may include pressable buttons, icons displayed by a visual display, and / or other suitable features for manual pressing, selection, etc., by the user to at least partially control the corresponding features of the suppression system, and the user interface may also display information about the suppression and detection system, as discussed in more detail below. The features of the system controller 86 and the user interface 92 may be implemented in various ways, including software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof, to facilitate the corresponding aspects of the invention.

[0112] Reference Figure 1Referring more specifically to the harvesting apparatus 20 of the first embodiment, it includes a mobile machine, i.e., a rotary machine, configured to harvest and transport planting material including mature cotton bolls and associated debris. In some cases, the debris may include rocks, metal fragments, and / or other types of debris, which may engage with the harvester (e.g., the rotary machine) in such a way as to generate one or more sparks and / or embers in a corresponding portion of the material flow path of the harvester, such that the sparks and / or embers are carried along with other contents in the corresponding portion of the material flow path of the harvester. As will be discussed in more detail below, the detection system may be configured to attempt to detect such sparks, embers, and / or any associated fires, and the suppression system may be configured to attempt to at least partially control and / or suppress such sparks, embers, and / or any associated fires, etc.

[0113] Regarding the harvesting device 20 in more detail, it may consist of a harvester frame extending below and in front of the front end of the frame platform 14 (e.g., Figure 7 (A portion of which is shown in the diagram) and other supports are used. The harvesting device 20 may include a series of stripper units 118 extending along the transverse auger mechanism 120, and each extending obliquely forward and downward from the transverse auger mechanism 120. The transverse auger mechanism 120 may include a housing supporting the rotating machinery in the form of one or more hydraulically driven transverse augers 122 (e.g., transverse auger conveyors). The transverse augers 122 in Figure 1 Not visible in the middle; therefore, one of the transverse auger 122 is in Figure 1 The middle part is schematically shown by a dashed circle.

[0114] The stripper unit 118 of the first embodiment is configured to remove (e.g., peel) cotton plant material and supply it to the transverse auger mechanism 120. Each stripper unit 118 may include at least one housing supported by the transverse auger mechanism 120. More specifically, each stripper unit 118 may include a housing that is generally bifurcated, such that a slot is defined between the two forks. The slot defined between the forks generally opens forward, upward, and downward for receiving a row of upright cotton plants. Each housing fork may support an agitator or rotary mechanism in the form of a hydraulically driven rotary brush 124, such that each stripper unit 118 includes a pair of counter-rotating rotary brushes 124, with a roller gap or narrow gap defined between the rotary brushes 124 for receiving (e.g., peeling) a row of upright cotton plants. The rotary brushes 124 in Figure 1 Invisible in the middle; therefore, the representative rotating brush is in Figure 1 The diagram is schematically shown in dashed lines. Each tilted rotating brush 124 (e.g., a rotating mechanism comprising metal and / or metal alloys) may extend tilted forward and downward relative to the transverse auger mechanism 120.

[0115] In each peeler unit 118, each housing fork may further support a rotating mechanism in the form of an inclined auger 126 (e.g., a hydraulically driven inclined auger conveyor), which is configured to extend along and below the associated rotating brush 124. Planting material removed (e.g., peeled) by the rotating brush 124 is conveyed rearward through the inclined auger 126 to the transverse auger mechanism 120.

[0116] In each housing fork of each peeler unit 118, the tilting auger 126 may be part of a tilting auger conveyor that includes a tilting trough (e.g., a rotating mechanism comprising metal and / or metal alloys) for receiving the tilting auger. The tilting trough and the tilting auger 126 may be cooperatively configured to at least partially clean the peeled planting material and at least partially remove any other material conveyed backward and upward by the tilting auger conveyor 126. For example, the tilting trough may include a downwardly and outwardly opening channel configured to facilitate the removal of unwanted debris (e.g., dirt) and / or facilitate stem breakage and removal. The downstream end of the tilting auger conveyor 126 is generally open to the transverse auger 122 of the transverse auger mechanism 120 to supply the removed planting material to the transverse auger mechanism. The transverse auger mechanism 120 may include a pair of transverse augers 122 (e.g., rotating machinery comprising metal and / or metal alloys) arranged end-to-end relative to each other and including opposing blades to move the removed planting material inward toward at least one center, rearward-facing outlet of the transverse auger mechanism.

[0117] In the first embodiment, the lower end of at least one separating conduit or chamber 22 is connected to the outlet of the transverse auger mechanism 120 for receiving planting material and any related materials from the transverse auger mechanism. The upper end of the separating chamber 28 opens to the lower end of the upstream conduit 24 for supplying it with at least mature cotton bolls. (Refer to...) Figure 2 At least one hydraulically driven mechanical fan 132 (e.g., an "upstream conveyor fan") is in at least indirect fluid communication with one or more of the separator 22 and the upstream conduit 24 to at least partially form the upstream portion of the harvester's material flow path (e.g., to at least partially form the upstream forced airflow path portion of the harvester's material flow path). The upstream forced airflow path of the first embodiment is configured to draw and / or push mature cotton bolls and associated relatively light debris from the outlet of the transverse auger mechanism 120 into the separator 22, and through the separator 22 into the inlet of the upstream conduit 24. (See reference...) Figure 2Ideally, the upstream conveying fan 132 supplies airflow to air nozzles 134, etc., which discharge the air originating from the upstream conveying fan into the internal spaces of the separator 22 and the upstream duct 24, respectively. The discharged air at least partially forms an upstream forced airflow path within the separator 22 and the upstream duct 24.

[0118] The separator 22 may be in the form of a downward-opening duct or chamber. One or more downward openings of the separator 22 may be configured to allow heavier, undesirable materials, such as at least some raw cotton bolls, to fall from the upstream forced airflow path, while lighter materials, including mature cotton bolls, float backward and / or upward through the separator and into the upstream duct 24. Air nozzles 134 within the chamber of the separator 22 may open upward and backward to provide airflow that helps to propel lighter material upward and backward over the lower openings of the separator and through the upstream duct 24. The upstream duct 24 typically extends through a suitable opening in the frame platform 14.

[0119] It is believed that, with harvesting device 20 ( Figure 1 Any sparks and / or embers associated with one or more rotating mechanical parts of the harvester can be drawn into and travel along the material flow path of the harvester in such a way that they can ignite the planted material in the material flow path of the harvester. One or more upstream detectors 68 Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 The upstream detector 68 can be installed on the upstream conduit 24 and configured to attempt to detect any sparks and / or embers located in (e.g., traveling through) the internal path of the upstream conduit. Each upstream detector 68 can be an infrared detector, such as a short-wave infrared detector, configured to attempt to detect at least sparks and / or embers, or other suitable detectors can be used.

[0120] exist Figure 8 In the example, the upstream detectors 68 are mounted remotely to each other by means of mounting to opposing walls of the upstream pipe 24, or more specifically, mounted opposite each other. For each upstream detector 68 and the upstream pipe wall to which it is mounted, its housing 78 may engage with the outer surface of the wall panel, and its lens assembly 76 may be positioned in a hole extending through the wall panel. The upstream detectors 68 may be mounted to the upstream pipe using suitable fasteners, frames, connectors, welding, etc.

[0121] like Figure 8 As schematically shown, the upstream detector 68 can be a right detector and a left detector respectively installed on the right side wall and left side wall of the upstream pipe 24, such that their respective fields of view 136 are within the interior space of the upstream pipe. Figure 8In this configuration, most of the interior space of the upstream conduit 24 is not visible, and portions of the field of view 136 are schematically depicted by dashed lines (e.g., in an approximate manner). Fields of view 136 may extend at least partially converging with each other, point towards each other, overlap with each other, and / or be coaxially aligned with each other. As another example, each field of view 136 may have a central axis extending outward from the corresponding upstream detector 68, and these axes may extend converging with each other, or more specifically, coaxially. Each field of view 136 may be conical or truncated conical.

[0122] The field of view 136 of the left upstream detector 68 can be configured such that at least a portion of the front wall of the upstream conduit 24, at least a portion of the rear wall of the upstream conduit, at least a portion of the right wall of the upstream conduit, and / or at least a portion of one or more other suitable features are within the field of view. Similarly, the field of view 136 of the right upstream detector 68 can be configured such that at least a portion of the front wall of the upstream conduit 24, at least a portion of the rear wall of the upstream conduit, at least a portion of the left wall of the upstream conduit, and / or at least a portion of one or more other suitable features are within the field of view.

[0123] like Figure 2 As illustrated in the example, the upstream conduit 24 typically extends through a suitable opening in the harvester frame (e.g., frame platform 14) to supply planting material from the upstream conduit to the inlet of the intermediate conduit 26. An upstream forced airflow path, at least partially provided by one or more fans 32 and air nozzles 134, continues through the intermediate conduit 26. The intermediate conduit 26 may be curved such that both its inlet and outlet openings are at least generally downward-facing. The upward, forward structure of the intermediate conduit 26 may be defined by a grid 138. The grid 138 may be configured to both allow some unwanted planting material to be discharged outward through the grid into the surrounding environment outside the intermediate conduit and retain at least a substantial percentage of mature bolls within the intermediate conduit. A solid wall panel of the intermediate conduit 26, located downstream of the grid 138, may extend rearward and downward to guide at least the bolls through the outlet of the intermediate conduit. One or more of U.S. Patents 4,606,177,5,311,728 and 6,018,938 are believed to disclose examples of suitable harvesting apparatus 16, separator 28, upstream pipe 30, fan 32, air nozzle 134, intermediate pipe 36 and / or other relevant features.

[0124] Reference Figure 2A solid wall panel of the intermediate duct 26 downstream of the grille 138 can extend rearward and downward to the outlet of the intermediate duct, which opens into an opening in the chamber of the field cleaner 28. The chamber of the field cleaner 28 (e.g., "cleaner chamber") can be a shell, wherein an upright partition 142 separates the upper inlet of the cleaner chamber from the upper outlet of the cleaner chamber. In addition to the upper inlet and upper outlet separated by the partition 142 and at least one lower outlet (not shown), the outer wall of the cleaner 28 can completely enclose the interior space of the cleaner chamber, the lower outlet being equipped with an auger (not shown) for discharging debris collected at the bottom of the cleaner chamber. The field cleaner 28 can be configured such that an upstream forced airflow path carrying at least mature cotton bolls enters the cleaner chamber through the upper inlet of the cleaner chamber.

[0125] Continue to refer to Figure 2 The field cleaner 28 of the first embodiment includes a moving mechanism, i.e., a rotating mechanism, configured to at least partially clean and transport a predetermined portion of the harvested material, which may include debris. In some cases, the debris may include rocks, metal fragments, and / or other types of debris, which may engage with the rotating mechanism of the cleaner 28 in a manner that could generate one or more sparks and / or embers in the material flow path of the harvester, such that the sparks and / or embers are carried along with other contents in the material flow path of the harvester. As reiterated above and as will be discussed in more detail below, the detection system may be configured to attempt to detect such sparks, embers, and / or any associated fires, and the suppression system may be configured to attempt to at least partially control and / or suppress such sparks, embers, and / or any associated fires, etc.

[0126] The inlet area of ​​a cleaner chamber (e.g., the chamber of a field cleaner 28) may be configured to guide material flowing into the cleaner chamber toward and along a rotating mechanism in the form of at least one rotary feeder shaft 144. The feeder shaft 144 (e.g., a rotating mechanism comprising metal and / or metal alloys) may be configured to guide mature bolls and associated debris toward the rotating mechanism, which may be in the form of one or more rotary saw cylinders 146, each having a “serrated” outer periphery. As the saw cylinders 146 (e.g., a rotating mechanism comprising metal and / or metal alloys) rotate at high speed, mature bolls are hooked by the peripheral serrations of the saw cylinders, and the hooked bolls strike a series of fixed rods 148 (e.g., a mechanism comprising metal and / or metal alloys) to separate debris from the raw cotton.

[0127] A rotating mechanism in the form of a rotary cotton remover shaft 150 is operatively associated with and configured to remove (e.g., strip) raw cotton from the saw cylinder 146. A hydraulically driven mechanical fan 152 (e.g., a "downstream conveyor fan") can at least partially form the middle portion of the harvester's material flow path (e.g., at least partially form the downstream forced airflow path portion of the harvester's material flow path). The downstream forced airflow path of the first embodiment is operatively associated with the cotton remover 150 (e.g., a rotating mechanism comprising metal and / or metal alloys) to receive raw cotton from the cotton remover. At least the separator 142 can direct the downstream forced airflow path containing raw cotton outward through the outlet of the cleaning chamber. One or more of U.S. Patents 4,606,177, 6,159,094, and 9,763,387 are believed to disclose examples of a suitable cleaner 40 and / or other related features.

[0128] exist Figure 2 In the example, the downstream forced airflow path extends from the outlet of cleaner 28 into downstream duct 30. The downstream forced airflow path, provided at least in part by downstream conveyor fan 152, can push raw cotton through downstream duct 30.

[0129] It is believed that any sparks and / or embers generated in association with one or more rotating mechanical parts of the cleaner 28 can be drawn into and travel along the material flow path of the harvester in such a way that they can ignite the planted material (e.g., raw cotton) in the material flow path of the harvester. One or more downstream detectors 70 ( Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 9 ,and Figure 24 The downstream detector 70 can be installed into the downstream conduit 30 and configured to attempt to detect any sparks and / or embers located in (e.g., traveling through) the internal path of the downstream conduit. Each of the downstream detectors 70 can be an infrared detector, such as a short-wave infrared detector, configured to attempt to detect at least sparks and / or embers, or other suitable detectors can be used.

[0130] exist Figure 24 In the example, the downstream detectors 70 are mounted away from each other by means of opposing walls of the downstream conduit 30, or more specifically, mounted opposite each other. For each downstream detector 70 and the downstream conduit wall to which it is mounted, its housing 78 may engage with the outer surface of the wall panel, and its lens assembly 76 may be positioned in a hole extending through the wall panel. The downstream detectors 70 may be mounted to the downstream conduit using suitable fasteners, frames, connectors, welding, etc. Figure 24As schematically shown, the downstream detector 70 can be a right detector and a left detector respectively installed on the right side wall and left side wall of the downstream pipe 30, such that their respective fields of view 154 are within the interior space of the downstream pipe. Figure 24 In the middle, the interior space of the downstream conduit 30 is not visible, and a portion of the field of view 154 is schematically depicted by dashed lines (e.g., in an approximate manner). The fields of view 154 may extend at least partially converging with each other, point towards each other, overlap with each other, and / or be coaxially aligned with each other. As another example, the fields of view 154 may each have a central axis extending outward from the respective downstream detector 70, and these axes may extend converging with each other, or more specifically, coaxially.

[0131] The field of view 154 of the left downstream detector 70 can be configured such that at least a portion of the front wall of the downstream conduit 30, at least a portion of the rear wall of the downstream conduit, at least a portion of the right wall of the downstream conduit, and / or at least a portion of one or more other suitable features are within the field of view. Similarly, the field of view 154 of the right downstream detector 70 can be configured such that at least a portion of the front wall of the downstream conduit 30, at least a portion of the rear wall of the downstream conduit, at least a portion of the left wall of the downstream conduit, and / or at least a portion of one or more other suitable features are within the field of view.

[0132] exist Figure 2 In the example, the downstream forced airflow path of the harvester's material flow path extends from the outlet of cleaner 28, through downstream duct 30, and into an opening leading to the interior of the accumulator chamber (e.g., the chamber of accumulator 32). As a result, raw cotton from cleaner 28 is transported through downstream duct 30 into the interior of the accumulator chamber. The downstream forced airflow path typically dissipates within the accumulator chamber due to, for example, the relatively large dimensions of the accumulator chamber itself and the rear portion of the top of the accumulator chamber defined by grille 160. Figure 13 and Figure 17 The interior of the accumulator chamber is open to the surrounding environment through a grille 160. Alternatively, the walls of the accumulator chamber can completely enclose the interior space of the accumulator chamber.

[0133] Reference Figure 2 , Figures 10 to 13 As shown in Figure 18, the accumulator 32 may include at least one hydraulically driven mixing shaft 162 and one or more hydraulically driven feeder shafts 164 positioned within the accumulator chamber (e.g., the chamber of accumulator 32). The mixing shaft 162 may be positioned in a central region within the internal space of the accumulator chamber and is configured to mix raw cotton in the upper region of the accumulator chamber. When the harvester 10 harvests the cotton, the mixing shaft 162 typically operates continuously to disperse the raw cotton to at least the upper part of the accumulator chamber.

[0134] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 10 The feeder shaft 164 is accessible or adjacent to the lower, rear discharge opening 166 of the accumulator chamber. The feeder shaft 164 is typically part of a feeder system configured to periodically convey and / or feed accumulated raw cotton outward through the accumulator discharge opening 166. The feeder shaft 164 is generally inactive for most of the time the harvester 10 is harvesting cotton. Similarly, the discharge opening 166 is generally closed for most of the time the harvester 10 is harvesting cotton. (See reference...) Figure 2 One or more doors 168 can be moved by one or more hydraulic actuators 170 to open and close the accumulator discharge opening 166.

[0135] When the harvester 10 harvests cotton, during the accumulation operation mode of the accumulator 32, the discharge opening 166 can be closed (and the feeder shaft 164 can idle / not operate / not rotate), allowing the raw cotton to accumulate in the lower internal space of the accumulator chamber (e.g., the chamber of accumulator 32). See reference. Figure 10 Under at least the influence of gravity, the mass of raw cotton is typically collected in a collection or convergence region 172, which is the lower part of the internal space within the accumulator chamber. In a first embodiment, a series of feeder shafts 164 extend partially around the convergence region 172, and the convergence region can be described as the lower half of the internal space of the accumulator chamber, the lower third of the internal space of the accumulator chamber, extending downward from the top of the highest feeder shaft 164, downward from the top of multiple highest feeder shafts, downward from the top of the second-highest feeder shaft, and downward from the top of multiple second-highest feeder shafts.

[0136] Reference Figure 10 During the feeding operation mode of accumulator 32, discharge outlet 166 is normally open and the feeder shaft 164 is operated so that the accumulated raw cotton is fed outward from convergence area 172 along feed path 174. In the first embodiment, feed path 174 extends through accumulator discharge opening 166. At least a portion of feed path 174 is... Figure 10 The arrow designated by the number 174 is depicted schematically. Feed path 174 is part of the material flow path of the harvester.

[0137] The feed mode can be automatically triggered by one or more conventional level sensors and / or manually triggered, for example, through one or more suitable user interfaces, wherein the one or more conventional level sensors are used to detect a predetermined level (e.g., height) of the accumulated raw cotton inside the accumulator chamber (e.g., the chamber of accumulator 32). U.S. Patent Publication 2014 / 0157745 is believed to disclose an example of a suitable accumulator 32 and / or other relevant features.

[0138] Furthermore, regarding the accumulating operation mode of accumulator 32, in some cases, one or more sparks and / or embers may be present in the raw cotton within the internal space of the accumulator chamber, causing the raw cotton to ignite (e.g., begin to burn and produce a flame). It is believed that any sparks and / or embers within the accumulator chamber can reach their destination through the inlet portion of the harvester's material flow path from the downstream pipe 30 into the accumulator chamber. Optionally, and perhaps less likely, other conditions may lead to ignition within the accumulator chamber. For example, it is thought that sparks and / or embers may sometimes be generated in association with rotating machinery within the accumulator chamber.

[0139] Regarding the characteristics of the detection system associated with accumulator 32, Figure 13 and Figure 17 Upper accumulator detector 72 is shown. Upper accumulator detector 72 can be configured to attempt to detect at least the fire-related conditions within the interior space of the accumulator chamber (e.g., the chamber of accumulator 32). Upper accumulator detector 72 can be an infrared detector, such as a mid-wave infrared detector, or other suitable detectors may be used.

[0140] The upper accumulator detectors 72 can be mounted to the central region of the top wall of the accumulator chamber, spaced apart from each other. For each upper accumulator detector 72, its housing 78 can engage with the outer surface of the corresponding panel of the top wall of the accumulator chamber, and its lens assembly 76 can be positioned in a hole extending through the corresponding wall panel. The upper accumulator detectors 72 can be mounted to the accumulator chamber using suitable fasteners, frames, connectors, welding, etc.

[0141] like Figure 25 As schematically depicted, the upper accumulator detector 72 can be a right upper accumulator detector and a left upper accumulator detector, configured such that their respective fields of view 176 are within the internal space of the accumulator chamber. Figure 25 In the diagram, a portion of the field of view 176 is schematically depicted by dashed lines (e.g., in an approximate manner). Figure 25 In the example, the left and right fields of view 176 partially overlap each other. The upper accumulator detector 72 of the first embodiment is configured such that a number of features within the accumulator chamber are within the fields of view 176, including, for example, the front, rear, right, and / or left walls of the accumulator chamber; at least a portion of the mixing shaft 162; at least a portion of the feeder shaft 164; and / or at least a portion of one or more ledges 214, which may be present in one or more of the front and rear walls of the accumulator, or otherwise associated with the front and rear walls of the accumulator. As another example, each field of view 176 may have a central axis extending outward from the respective upper accumulator detector 72, and these axes may extend substantially parallel to each other.

[0142] like Figure 11 As shown, the lower accumulator detector 74 can be a right-side detector and a left-side detector respectively mounted to the right side wall and left side wall of the accumulator chamber (e.g., the chamber of accumulator 32). The lower accumulator detector 74 can be configured to attempt to detect at least a fire-related condition (e.g., an embedded fire) within the interior space of the accumulator chamber. Each lower accumulator detector 74 can be an infrared detector, such as a short-wave infrared detector, configured to attempt to detect at least an embedded fire in the accumulator chamber, for example in the collection or convergence area 172 ( Figure 10 The fire embedded in the large amount of raw cotton collected in the sample could be detected by other suitable detectors.

[0143] The lower accumulator detector 74 can be mounted to the lower central portions of the right and left side walls of an accumulator chamber (e.g., the chamber of accumulator 32), respectively. For each lower accumulator detector 74, its housing 78 can engage with the outer surface of a panel abutting against the corresponding side wall of the accumulator chamber, and its lens assembly 76 can be positioned in a hole extending through the corresponding side wall panel of the accumulator chamber. The lower accumulator detector 74 can be mounted to the accumulator chamber using suitable fasteners, frames, connectors, welding, etc.

[0144] like Figure 26 As schematically depicted, the lower accumulator detector 74 can be configured such that its respective field of view 178 is within the interior space of the accumulator chamber. Figure 26 In order to more clearly depict the field of view 178 schematically drawn by dashed lines (e.g., in an approximate manner), the feeder shaft 164 is omitted. The field of view 178 may extend at least partially converging with each other, point towards each other, overlap with each other, and / or be coaxially aligned with each other. As another example, the field of view 178 may each have a central axis extending outward from the corresponding lower accumulator detector 74, and these axes may extend converging towards each other, or more specifically, coaxially. See also... Figure 10 The field of view 178 can extend intersectingly into the convergence area 172 in the corresponding part of the material flow path of the harvester.

[0145] Features of the first embodiment of the accumulator suppression subsystem, and as referred to Figure 27 Ideally, each of the upper center accumulator suppressor nozzles 50 can be a plug nozzle. Figure 27The example of a representative upper-center accumulator suppression nozzle shown has a tubular collar or outer nozzle body 180 and an inner plug body 181 movably mounted to the nozzle body. The lower end or lower portion of the nozzle body 180 may include or have an annular flange 182 extending outward therefrom. The flange 182 may be substantially flush with the inner surface of the top wall plate of the accumulator chamber (e.g., the chamber of accumulator 32). The upper portion of the outer body 180 may be in the form of a threaded joint 184 with external threads and / or any other suitable fastening feature.

[0146] In the first embodiment, the nozzle body 180 and the plug bodies 180, 181 are connected together or more generally mounted together in a manner that allows for automatic relative movement between them, as will be discussed in more detail below. More specifically, in Figure 27 In the example, the plug body 181 is movably mounted in the nozzle body 180 via a guide or guide plate 190, a coil spring 192, a washer 194, and a threaded nut 196 or other suitable fasteners. Alternatively, the nozzle body 180 and the plug body 181 may be mounted together in any other suitable manner, such as in a manner that allows automatic relative movement between the nozzle body and the plug body, as will be discussed in more detail below.

[0147] Figure 27 This is a separate front elevation view of a representative nozzle in the central upper accumulator suppressor nozzle 50 of its enclosed structure, wherein the front half of each of the nozzle body 180 (including flange 182 and threaded joint 184) and guide 190 is cut off to expose features that would otherwise be invisible. Figure 27 In the example, the plug body 181 includes a shaft 198 extending from the head 200. A guide or guide plate 190 may be fixedly mounted within an internal channel extending through the nozzle body 180 to guide and support the shaft 198. In a first embodiment, the shaft 198 extends through holes in two or more holes through the guide plate 190, and the shaft also extends through a coil spring 192 and a washer 194. A nut 196 or other suitable fastener may be attached to the end of the shaft 198, or in any other suitable configuration, such that the plug body 181 is pulled or biased inward relative to the outer body 180. Inward biasing generally results in a sealing engagement (e.g., a firm face-to-face contact) between the respective mutually constructed truncated conical seats 202, 204 of the nozzle body 180 and the head 200, which will be discussed in more detail below.

[0148] Figure 28 This is a front view of a representative nozzle in the central upper accumulator suppression nozzle 50, which is located in an aperture 206 in a corresponding panel that extends through the top wall of the accumulator chamber in its open configuration. Figure 28In the example, a portion of the fitting 208 of the corresponding leg of the upper piping system 104 is disassembled from the threaded fitting 184. The flange 182 and the fitting 208 may be wider than the hole 206 in the top wall of the accumulator chamber, such that when the internal thread of the fitting 208 is fully engaged with the threaded fitting 184, the central upper accumulator suppression nozzle 50 is securely mounted to the top wall of the accumulator chamber. In the first embodiment, the lower end of the central upper accumulator suppression nozzle 50 may be flush with or substantially flush with the inner side of the top wall plate of the accumulator chamber.

[0149] exist Figure 17 In the example, the central upper accumulator suppresses the nozzle 50 (e.g., in...). Figure 17 It is not visible in the middle, but in Figure 13 The upper accumulator chamber is installed at least partially in the central region of the top wall of the upper piping system 104 via a corresponding pipe fitting 208 of a corresponding leg connected (e.g., by thread) to a threaded fitting 184. The connection between the central upper accumulator suppressor nozzle 50 and the upper piping system 104 can be provided in any other suitable manner, including one or more of pipes, fittings, connectors, welds, etc.

[0150] Main reference Figure 27 In the first embodiment, the central upper accumulator suppression nozzle 50, the piping system 104, and the accumulator suppression pump 42 are cooperatively configured such that when the accumulator suppression pump is operated to supply extinguishing agent to the central upper accumulator suppression nozzle, the pressurized extinguishing agent pushes with sufficient force within the internal space of the nozzle body 180 onto the upward-facing surface of the head 200, causing the plug body 181 to move outward relative to the nozzle body. The plug body 181 moves outward a short distance relative to the nozzle body 180, forming a truncated conical gap between seats 202 and 204, through which the extinguishing agent flows. This movement of the plug body 181 compresses the spring 192. When the accumulator suppression pump 42 stops operating, the spring 192 extends to close the central upper accumulator suppression nozzle 50.

[0151] Reference Figures 28 to 31 In the first embodiment, each of the upper central accumulator suppression nozzles 50 (e.g., plug nozzles) is configured, when open, to discharge extinguishing agent from a corresponding leg of the upper piping system 104 in the form of a downward-pointing, relatively wide-angled hollow cone spray pattern. Each hollow cone spray pattern from the central upper accumulator suppression nozzle 50 typically includes an outermost cone portion 210 and an innermost cone portion 212 of the spray pattern. Figures 28 to 31 In the diagram, the outermost and innermost spray pattern portions 210 and 212 of the cone are schematically depicted by dashed lines (e.g., in an approximate manner). Figure 29As schematically depicted by dashed lines (e.g., in an approximate manner), the spray pattern portions 210, 212 may have a central discharge axis 213 extending outward from the respective central upper accumulator suppressor nozzle 50. The discharge axes 213 of the two central upper accumulator suppressor nozzles may extend downward and generally parallel to each other.

[0152] Reference Figures 28 to 31 At least the central upper accumulator suppressor nozzle 50, the piping system 104, and the accumulator suppressor pump 42 can be configured such that the hollow conical jet patterns 210, 212 from the central upper accumulator suppressor nozzle 50 at least partially cover multiple features within the accumulator chamber, including, for example, at least a portion of the front and rear walls of the accumulator chamber, at least a portion of the mixing shaft 162, at least a portion of the feeder shaft 164, and / or at least a portion of one or more wall brackets 214, which may be present in one or more of the front and rear walls of the accumulator, or otherwise associated with the front and rear walls of the accumulator. In one aspect, the hollow conical jet patterns 210, 212 provide primary coverage of at least the upper interior space of the accumulator chamber. Conversely, according to the first embodiment, at least the central upper accumulator suppression nozzle 50, the piping system 104, and the accumulator suppression pump 42 can be configured such that the hollow conical jet patterns 210, 212 from the central upper accumulator suppression nozzle 50 do not cover the ends of the ledge 214, and / or define one or more upright corners or corner regions 216 respectively between the front wall, right wall, left wall, and rear wall of the accumulator chamber. Figure 31 ), and / or one or more central areas surrounded by the innermost spray pattern portion 212.

[0153] Reference Figures 13 to 16 And according to the first embodiment, Figures 13 to 16 The upper right nozzle assembly 52 shown is the upper left nozzle assembly 52 (e.g., Figure 11The representatives (e.g., in both construction and function) are opposite to each other except that their installation orientations are opposite. The upper right nozzle assembly 52 includes a body 220, which can typically be in the form of an irregular block of metal, metal alloy and / or any other suitable material. In a first embodiment, the body 220 includes a right surface 222, a left upper surface 224 extending downwardly from the upper edge of the right surface 222, a front upper surface 226 extending vertically from the front edge of the right surface 222 to the front edge of the left upper surface, a rear upper surface 228 extending vertically from the rear edge of the right surface 222 to the rear edge of the left upper surface 224, a lower surface 230 extending vertically from the lower edge of the right surface 222, a middle lower surface or left lower surface 232 extending obliquely upward from the left edge of the lower surface 230 to the lower edge of the left upper surface 224, a front lower surface 234 extending obliquely upward from the front edge of the lower surface 230 to the corresponding edges of other surfaces of the body 220, and a rear lower surface 236 extending obliquely upward from the rear edge of the lower surface 230 to the corresponding edges of other surfaces of the body 220. Each surface 222, 224, 226, 228, 230, 232, 234, 236 may be substantially flat.

[0154] In the first embodiment, the right surface 222 of the body 220 of the upper right nozzle assembly 52 is connected to the inner surface of the right wall and contacts the inner surface of the right wall, or more specifically, the inner surface of the right wall plate of the accumulator chamber, in a face-to-face relationship. In the first embodiment, the upper edge of the upper left surface 224 of the body is located below and spaced apart from the upper wall of the accumulator chamber. As an example of a suitable connection between the upper right nozzle assembly 52 and the right wall of the accumulator chamber, Figure 16 The dashed lines schematically illustrate a fastener portion including an internally threaded hole 240 extending through the right surface 222 of the body into the interior of the body 220. Holes 240 may receive externally threaded fasteners (e.g., bolts) extending through corresponding holes in the right wall of the accumulator chamber. Alternatively or additionally, the connection between the accumulator suppression nozzles 54, 56, or nozzle assembly 52 and the accumulator chamber may be provided by suitable fasteners, frames, connectors, welding, etc.

[0155] In the first embodiment, the upper left surface 224 of the body is inclined downward at a sufficient angle (e.g., relative to the horizontal direction) toward the central region of the interior of the accumulator chamber in an attempt to allow the raw cotton and any other related material in contact with the upper left surface 224 to slide downward and detach from the upper left surface 224. Similarly, the lower left surface 232, the lower front surface 234, and the lower rear surface 236 of the body may be inclined (e.g., relative to the vertical direction), which will be discussed in more detail below.

[0156] The upper right nozzle assembly 52 of the first embodiment is further described below. For example... Figure 15 As schematically shown by the dashed lines, body 220 includes an internal liquid distribution network, which includes an upstream hole or channel 242 connected to a downstream hole or channel 244. The upstream channel 242 extends through the right surface 222 of the body into the interior of body 220. Left, front, and rear downstream channels 244 extend through the lower left surface 232, lower front surface 234, and lower rear surface 236 of the body, respectively, to the inner ends of the upstream channel 242.

[0157] Also refer to Figure 3 The upper right nozzle assembly 52 can be mounted to the right wall of the accumulator chamber. Such a mounting configuration can be provided at least partially by (e.g., by thread) at least one pipe fitting 246 of the corresponding leg of the upper piping system 104 in the outer end of the upstream channel 242 of the main body.

[0158] Reference Figure 15 The middle or left nozzle 54 can be connected to and in fluid communication with the left downstream channel 244 of the body 220 via, for example, a threaded connector (not shown) with external threads, connected (e.g., by thread) to the outer end of the left downstream channel 244. Similarly, the front and rear nozzles 56 can be connected to and in fluid communication with the front and rear downstream channels 244 of the body 220 respectively via, for example, threaded connectors (not shown) with external threads, connected (e.g., by thread) to the outer ends of the front and rear downstream channels 244. Additionally or alternatively, the connection between the nozzles 52, 54 and the upper piping system 104 can be provided in any other suitable manner, including additional pipes, fittings, connections, welding, etc.

[0159] Reference Figures 32 to 34 In the first embodiment, the intermediate nozzle 54 of the upper nozzle assembly 52 is configured to discharge extinguishing agent in the form of a relatively large-angle solid cone spray pattern 250, which is supplied under pressure from a corresponding leg of the upper piping system 104 to the intermediate nozzle 54 of the upper nozzle assembly 52. Figures 32 to 34 In the image, portions of the solid cone-shaped spray pattern 250 are schematically depicted by dashed lines (e.g., in an approximate manner). In the first embodiment, the intermediate nozzle 54 is mounted on the body 220 at the inclined lower middle surface 232. Figures 14 to 16 ), making the central axis 251 of the solid cone-shaped spray pattern 250 ( Figure 33 They slope downwards and extend relative to each other.

[0160] At least the intermediate nozzle 54, body 220, piping system 104, and accumulator suppression pump 42 are cooperatively configured such that the solid conical jet pattern 250 at least partially covers features within the accumulator chamber, including, for example, at least a portion of the mixing shaft 162 and / or at least a portion of the feeder shaft 164. The solid conical jet pattern 250 can provide at least partial secondary coverage of the accumulator chamber's interior space, for example, by covering at least a portion of the central region surrounded by but not covered by the innermost jet pattern portion 212 (see, for example, [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 31 ).exist Figure 33 and Figure 34 In the example, the components are configured such that the solid cone-shaped spray pattern 250 extends at least partially converging with each other.

[0161] Reference Figures 35 to 37 In the first embodiment, the front and rear nozzles 56 of the upper nozzle assembly 52 are configured to discharge extinguishing agent in a relatively narrow fan-shaped spray pattern 252, the extinguishing agent being supplied under pressure from corresponding outriggers of the upper piping system 104 to the front and rear nozzles 56. Figures 35 to 37 In the diagram, portions of the fan-shaped spray pattern 252 are schematically depicted by dashed lines (e.g., in an approximate manner). In the first embodiment, the front and rear nozzles are mounted to the body 220 at the inclined front lower surface 234 and rear lower surface 236, respectively. Figures 14 to 16 ), making the central axis 253 of the fan-shaped spray pattern 252 ( Figure 35 Sloping downwards. Figure 14 and Figure 16 In the example, the discharge ends of the front and rear nozzles 56 include a groove 245, which is configured to at least partially define the shape and orientation of the spray pattern 252, wherein the length of the groove 245 extends vertically, or more specifically, perpendicularly.

[0162] At least the front and rear nozzles 56, body 220, piping system 104, and accumulator suppression pump 42 are cooperatively configured such that a portion of the fan-shaped jet pattern 252 at least partially covers predetermined features within the accumulator chamber. These predetermined features may include, for example, at least a portion of the front and rear walls of the accumulator chamber, and / or at least a portion of one or more of the front and rear walls of the accumulator or associated with one or more ledges 214. As another example, the fan-shaped jet pattern 252 may be defined, for example, by covering one or more ends of the ledges 214 and / or defining one or more upright corners or corner regions 216 respectively between the front, right, left, and rear walls of the accumulator chamber. Figure 37 This provides at least some secondary coverage to the internal space of the accumulator chamber.

[0163] exist Figure 33 and Figure 34In the example, the upper nozzle assemblies 52 are mounted away from each other, or more specifically, mounted opposite each other. Figure 35 and Figure 37 In the example, the corresponding components are configured such that the fan-shaped jet pattern 252 originating from the same upper nozzle assembly 52 (e.g., Figure 35 The axes 253 (shown schematically in the diagram) extend divergently relative to each other. In contrast, the fan-shaped jet patterns 252 (e.g., their axes 253) originating from the opposing upper nozzle assemblies 52 may extend at least partially convergent relative to each other.

[0164] Referring to FIG19 and according to the first embodiment, the lower right nozzle assembly 58 shown in FIG19 is the lower left nozzle assembly 58 (e.g., Figure 11 The representatives (e.g., in both construction and function) are opposite to each other except that their installation orientations are opposite. The lower right nozzle assembly 58 includes a body 260, which can typically be in the form of an irregular block of metal, metal alloy and / or any other suitable material.

[0165] Figure 38 This is a separate left elevation view of the body 260 of the lower right nozzle assembly 58 in the first embodiment. (See Figure 19 and...) Figure 38 In the example, the body 260 of the lower right nozzle assembly 58 in the first embodiment includes a right surface 262, a left outer surface 264, and a recessed left surface 266. Figure 38 The left outer surface 264 and one or more surfaces, such as an annular surface 268, connect the inner periphery of the left outer surface 264 to the outer periphery of the recessed left surface 266. At least the left outer surface 264 may be flat. In a first embodiment, the recessed left surface 266 and the annular surface 268 (or one or more other suitable surfaces) define an aperture or recess 270 configured to at least partially include the lower accumulator suppression nozzles 60, 62.

[0166] In the first embodiment, the left outer surface 264 of the body 260 of the lower right nozzle assembly 58 is connected to the outer surface of the right wall of the accumulator chamber and is in face-to-face contact with the outer surface of the right wall of the accumulator chamber. The lower edge of the left outer surface 264 may be positioned above the lower wall of the accumulator chamber. As an example of a proper connection between the lower right nozzle assembly 58 and the accumulator chamber, Figure 19 and Figure 38The fastener portion is schematically shown, including an internally threaded hole 272 extending through the left outer surface 264 into the interior of the body 260. Holes 272 may receive externally threaded fasteners (e.g., bolts) extending through corresponding holes in the right wall of the accumulator chamber. Alternatively or additionally, the connection between the lower accumulator suppression nozzles 60, 62 or nozzle assembly 58 and the accumulator chamber may be provided by suitable fasteners, frames, connectors, welding, etc.

[0167] In the first embodiment, when the body 260 of the lower right nozzle assembly 58 is mounted to the right wall of the accumulator chamber, or more specifically to the right wall panel, the body recess 270 opens to the interior space of the accumulator chamber through at least one hole 274 (FIG. 18) extending through the right wall of the accumulator chamber. In the example of FIG. 18, the hole 274 (FIG. 18) is located between the accumulator discharge opening 166 and another hole (not shown) on the left and right side panels of the accumulator 32. This other hole (not shown) on the right wall panel of the accumulator 32 can receive a reduced-diameter portion of the right end of the lowermost feeder shaft 164. Similarly, for the first embodiment, when the body 260 of the lower left nozzle assembly 58 is mounted to the outer surface of the left wall of the accumulator chamber, or more specifically the left wall panel, the body recess 270 of the lower left nozzle assembly opens to the interior space of the accumulator chamber by extending through at least one hole (e.g., similar to hole 274 in FIG. 18) through the left wall panel of the accumulator chamber.

[0168] The lower right nozzle assembly 58 of the first embodiment is further described below. As schematically shown by the dashed lines in FIG19, the body 260 includes an internal liquid distribution network including an upstream hole or channel 276 connected to a downstream hole or channel 278. The upstream channel 276 extends through the right surface 262 of the body into the interior of the body 260. The downstream channel 278 extends through the recessed left surface 266 to the inner end of the upstream channel 276.

[0169] Also refer to Figure 3 Liquid extinguishing agent can be supplied to the internal liquid distribution network of the main body 260 via at least one pipe fitting 280 of a corresponding leg of the lower piping system 112 connected (e.g., by thread) to the outer end of the upstream channel 276 of the main body. Figure 3 In this configuration, a portion of the main support leg of the lower piping system 112, including the pipe connector 280, is concealed behind the conventional panel of the harvester 10 and is therefore not visible. Thus, the concealed portion of the support leg of the lower piping system 112 and the pipe connector 280 are... Figure 3 It is depicted schematically by dashed lines.

[0170] Referring to Figure 19, the lower accumulator-suppression nozzles 60 and 62 can be connected to and in fluid communication with the upper and lower downstream channels of the body 260, respectively, via threaded fittings (not shown) with external threads, for example, the lower accumulator-suppression nozzles 60 and 62. The threaded fittings with external threads of the lower accumulator-suppression nozzles 60 and 62 are respectively connected (e.g., by thread) to the outer ends of the upper and lower downstream channels 278. As a result, the lower accumulator-suppression nozzles 60 and 62 are connected to the lower piping system 112 (e.g., in fluid communication with the lower piping system 112). Additionally or alternatively, the connection between the lower accumulator-suppression nozzles 60 and 62 and the lower piping system 112 can be provided in any other suitable manner, including one or more pipes, fittings, connectors, welds, etc. Figure 11 In one example, the discharge ends of the lower accumulator suppressor nozzles 60, 62 are depicted protruding into the interior space of the accumulator chamber. In other examples, the discharge ends of the lower accumulator suppressor nozzles 60, 62 are at least partially recessed relative to the inner surfaces of the right and left side wall panels of the accumulator, respectively, for example, they may be flush with or further recessed.

[0171] Reference Figure 39 For each lower nozzle assembly 58 in the first embodiment, the upper nozzle 60 is configured to discharge the extinguishing agent in a relatively narrow fan-shaped spray pattern 282, and the lower nozzle 62 is configured to discharge the extinguishing agent in a very narrow or near-zero angle spray pattern 284 (e.g., a blower spray pattern, or more specifically, a tight blower pattern). Figure 39 In the middle, portions of the narrow fan-shaped jet pattern 282 and the blower jet pattern 284 are schematically depicted by dashed lines (e.g., in an approximate manner). Figure 39 The lowest feeder shaft 164 is omitted (see, for example, see...). Figure 2 , Figure 10 (and Figure 18) to clearly show the spray patterns 282, 284. Figure 10 In the example of Figure 19, the discharge end of the upper nozzle 60 includes a groove configured to at least partially define the shape and orientation of the spray pattern 282, wherein the length of the groove extends transversely to the vertical direction or vertically, or more specifically, the length of the groove extends horizontally.

[0172] The lower nozzle assembly 58 of the first embodiment is configured such that each of the narrower fan-shaped jet pattern 282 and the blower jet pattern 284 extends to the lower part of the interior space of the accumulator chamber, or more specifically, to the lowest feeder shaft 164. Figure 2 (and Figure 18) and the discharge opening 166 of the accumulator chamber ( Figure 2 In the portion of the internal space of the accumulator chamber between (Figure 18) and (Figure 19). See reference... Figure 10 and Figure 39 The example is best understood as one or more of the narrower fan-shaped spray pattern 282 and the blower spray pattern 284, and / or each of them, extending into the lower part of the interior space of the accumulator chamber, or more specifically, into the feed path 174 portion that laterally enters the material flow path of the harvester.

[0173] exist Figure 39 In the example, the lower nozzle assemblies 58 are mounted away from each other, or more specifically, opposite each other, such that the left and right narrower fan-shaped jet patterns 282 extend at least partially converging relative to each other, are oriented toward each other, overlap each other, and / or are coaxially aligned with each other. As a more specific example, each fan-shaped jet pattern 282 may have a central discharge axis extending outward from the respective lower nozzle 60, and these axes may extend converging relative to each other or, more specifically, approximately coaxially. Similarly, the left and right blower jet patterns 284 may extend at least partially converging relative to each other, are oriented toward each other, overlap each other, and / or are coaxially aligned with each other. As a more specific example, each blower jet pattern 284 may have a central discharge axis extending outward from the respective lower nozzle 62, and these axes may extend converging relative to each other or, more specifically, approximately coaxially. One or more of the narrower fan-shaped blower jet patterns 282 and blower jet patterns 284 (e.g., their respective axes) may extend parallel to each other, for example, as... Figure 39 It is depicted schematically in the middle.

[0174] The accumulator suppression subsystem of the first embodiment is configured such that each of the central upper accumulator suppression nozzles 50 has a higher extinguishing agent flow rate than each of the other accumulator suppression nozzles 52, 54, 56, 58, 60, 62, and provides a wider extinguishing agent coverage; and one or more other accumulator suppression nozzles 52, 54, 56, 58, 60, 62 provide extinguishing agent coverage that complements (e.g., covers at least some different areas) the extinguishing agent coverage provided by the central upper accumulator suppression nozzles 50. In this regard, the predetermined pairs of spray pattern central axes extending outward from the accumulator suppression nozzles 50, 54, 56, 60, 62 may extend relative to each other in various configurations, including converging (e.g., coaxial), diverging, and / or intersecting (e.g., vertical). As another example, the predetermined pairs of spray pattern central axes extending outward from the accumulator suppression nozzles 50, 54, 56, 60, 62 may extend along each other (e.g., parallel to each other). Similarly, the predetermined spray pattern central axis extending outward from the accumulator suppression nozzles 50, 54, 56, 60, 62 may extend in various configurations relative to the corresponding features of the accumulator 32 (e.g., the longitudinal rotation axes of the mixing shaft 162 and the feeder shaft 164), including converging, diverging, and / or laterally (e.g., vertically). As another example, the predetermined spray pattern central axis extending outward from the accumulator suppression nozzles 50, 54, 56, 60, 62 may extend along (e.g., parallel to) the corresponding features of the accumulator 32 (e.g., the longitudinal rotation axes of the mixing shaft 162 and the feeder shaft 164).

[0175] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 10 In a first embodiment of the feeding operation mode of the accumulator 32, the feeder shaft 164 is operated such that the accumulated raw cotton is fed outward from the convergence area 172 along the feed path 174, through the accumulator discharge opening 166, and into the inlet opening of the adjacent module builder 34. A belt conveyor (not shown) or other suitable carrying device may extend along a portion of the feed path 174, including the accumulator discharge opening 166 and the inlet opening of the module builder 34, for carrying the raw cotton into the internal space of the chamber of the module builder 34. In the first embodiment, the module builder 34 is configured to form the raw cotton into cylindrical bales 336 (…). Figure 2 The baler 34. Therefore, in the first embodiment, the raw cotton travels along the feed path 174 into the interior space of the baler chamber (e.g., the chamber of the module builder 34).

[0176] Reference Figure 1The baler 34 of the first embodiment includes a forward housing 320 and a rear housing 326 (e.g., a discharge gate). The forward housing 320 is pivotally connected to the chassis of the harvester 10, and the rear housing 326 is pivotally connected to the forward housing. The forward housing 320 can be mounted to pivot vertically relative to the chassis about a horizontal pivot axis, wherein this pivoting can be part of the transition between the harvesting and transport configurations described above. The discharge gate or the rear housing 326 can be mounted to pivot vertically relative to the forward housing 320 about a horizontal pivot axis. In one operating mode, the pivoting of the rear housing 326 can be part of the transition between the harvesting and transport configurations. The configuration for transport may include relative pivoting between the forward housing 320 and the rearward housing 326 of the baler (e.g., similar to opening a "clamshell container"), such that the baler 34 is reconfigured into a lowered configuration (not shown). In another mode of operation, pivoting the rearward housing 326 of the baler may at least partially facilitate the discharge of bales 336 from the baler 34. Figure 2 (This will be discussed in more detail below.)

[0177] The forward housing 320 of the baler may include a spaced-apart right side wall and a left side wall, with the forward portion of the baler chamber defined between the right and left side walls. Similarly, the backward housing 326 of the baler (e.g., a gate) may include a spaced-apart right side wall and a left side wall, with the backward portion of the baler chamber defined between the right and left side walls. One or more hydraulic cylinders (not shown) connected to the side walls of the backward housing 326 of the baler may be selectively operated to move the backward housing between its pivoting positions, including a lowered baling position and an open unloading position.

[0178] The baler 34 of the first embodiment has a variable chamber design and therefore includes a plurality of longitudinally extending side-by-side belts 332 supported on a plurality of rollers 334 positioned between the side walls of the baler's forward housing 320 and the baler's rearward housing 326. One or more of the rollers may be driven by one or more hydraulic motors or other suitable mechanisms to drive the baler belts 332 around a central region inside the baler's chamber.

[0179] In a first embodiment, as the accumulator 32 supplies raw cotton to the operating baler 34, the raw cotton is spirally wound in the gaps between adjacent loops of the relatively moving baler belt 332 to form bales 336. As the formed bales 336 increase in size, the spacing between adjacent loops of the baler belt 332 increases. The accumulator 32 may be configured to supply sufficient raw cotton to the baler 34 such that each bale 336 has a maximum predetermined diameter, such as about 5 feet, about 7.5 feet, about 8 feet, or any other suitable diameter. Figure 2 The predetermined maximum size of the bundle 336 in the first embodiment is shown.

[0180] The baler 34 may include conventional bundling equipment 240, configured to operate in conjunction with the baler belt 332 to package formed bundles 336 in webs of materials such as polymer film or other suitable materials before the bundles are discharged from the baler. After the bundles 336 are packaged, the baler gate or rear housing 326 may pivotally open, allowing the packaged bundles to be conveyed to the extended unloader 36. The baler gate or rear housing 226 may then be closed, and the next bundle 336 may be formed and packaged.

[0181] The unloader 36 may be pivotally mounted to the frame of the harvester 10 and connected to one or more hydraulic cylinders (not shown) configured to pivot the unloader between its respective positions. The unloader 36 may pivot to a lower position to place the bale 336 onto the ground behind the harvester 10. Examples of suitable balers 34, packing equipment 340, unloader 36, and other relevant features are believed to be disclosed in U.S. Patents 6,941,740, 7,631,716, 8,925,287, and 10,034,433, and U.S. Patent Publication 2018 / 0242527.

[0182] Reference Figure 20 and Figure 21 The baler suppression subsystem of the first embodiment includes one or more lower baler nozzles 64 or one or more lower nozzle assemblies 350 mounted to the forward housing 320 of the baler. In the first embodiment, there are right lower baler nozzles 64 and left lower baler nozzles 64 respectively mounted to the right side wall and left side wall of the forward housing 320 of the baler. More specifically, there may be right lower baler nozzle assemblies 350 and left lower baler nozzle assemblies 350 respectively mounted to the right side wall and left side wall of the forward housing 320 of the baler.

[0183] Figure 21 The lower right nozzle assembly 350 shown can be represented (in both construction and function) as the lower left nozzle assembly 350, except that their mounting orientations are opposite to each other. Figure 21 This is a separated left elevation view of the lower right nozzle assembly 350 of the first embodiment. The lower right nozzle assembly 350 of the first embodiment includes a body 352, which may typically be in the form of an irregular block of a metal plate, metal alloy, and / or any other suitable material. The body 352 of the lower right nozzle assembly 58 of the first embodiment includes opposing right surfaces 354 and left surfaces 356.

[0184] The body 352 of the lower right nozzle assembly 350 can be connected to the right wall of the baler forward housing 320 such that at least a portion of the left surface 356 of the body 352 is face-to-face with (and optionally in contact with) the outer surface of the right wall, or more specifically, with the right wall panel of the baler forward housing. The lower edge of the left surface 356 of the body 352 can be positioned above the lower wall of the baler forward housing 320. An example of a suitable connection between the lower right nozzle assembly 350 and the baler forward housing 320 is provided. Figure 21 The lower right nozzle assembly 350 is shown to include a fastener component comprising internally threaded holes, which may be defined by a body 352 and / or a fastener nut 358. The fastener nut 358 may be securely mounted to the body 352 by welding and / or any other suitable connection. The threaded holes (e.g., for mounting the nut 358) may respectively receive externally threaded fasteners (e.g., bolts) extending through corresponding holes in the right wall of the baler forward housing 320, or more specifically, in the right wall panel. Holes in the body 352 may be aligned with the threaded holes of the nut 358. Alternatively or additionally, the connection between the lower nozzle assembly 350 and the baler forward housing 320 may be provided by suitable fasteners, frames, connectors, welding, etc.

[0185] As an example of a proper connection between the lower right baler suppressing nozzle 64 and the corresponding body 352. Figure 21 The lower right nozzle assembly 350 is shown to include another fastener component comprising an internally threaded hole, which may be defined by a body 352 and / or a fastener nut 360. The fastener nut 360 may be securely mounted to the body 352 by welding and / or any other suitable connection. A hole in the body 352 may be aligned with the threaded hole of the nut 360. A lower right baler suppressor nozzle 64 may be connected to a corresponding threaded hole in the lower right nozzle assembly 350 (e.g., the nut 360) via a threaded connector (not shown) with external threads. The threaded connector with external threads of the lower right baler suppressor nozzle 64 may be connected (e.g., by thread) to the corresponding threaded hole in the lower right nozzle assembly 350 (e.g., the nut 360) such that the threaded connector of the lower right baler suppressor nozzle 64 extends through and protrudes from a hole in the body 352 aligned with the threaded hole of the nut 360. Alternatively or additionally, the connection between the lower baler nozzle 64 and the baler forward housing 320 may be provided by suitable fasteners, frames, connectors, welding, etc.

[0186] Liquid extinguishing agent can be supplied to the lower baler suppression nozzle 64 via pipe fittings on the corresponding legs of the piping system 114, the corresponding legs of the piping system 114 being connected (e.g., by thread) to a threaded fitting with external threads on the right lower baler suppression nozzle 64. Additionally or alternatively, the connection between the lower baler suppression nozzle 64 and the piping system 114 can be provided in any other suitable manner, including pipes, fittings, connectors, welding, etc. Figure 20 In one example, the discharge end of the lower baler suppressor nozzle 64 is depicted as protruding into the interior space of the baler chamber (e.g., the chamber of the module builder 34). In other examples, the discharge end of the lower baler suppressor nozzle 64 is at least partially recessed relative to the inner surfaces of the right and left side panels of the baler 34; for example, they may be flush or further recessed.

[0187] Reference Figure 20 In the first embodiment, the lower baler suppression nozzle 64 is configured to discharge the extinguishing agent as a mist and / or fog into the internal space of the baler chamber (e.g., the chamber of the module builder 34). The mist and / or fog can be discharged from the lower baler suppression nozzle 64 in a conical pattern, although the cone may only be present relatively closely around the lower baler suppression nozzle 64 due to the relatively small particle size of the mist and / or fog. A portion of the initial conical mist and / or fog pattern 363 discharged from the lower baler suppression nozzle 64... Figure 20 The diagram is illustrated using dots. For example... Figure 20 Each fog and / or mist pattern 363, schematically depicted by dashed lines (e.g., in an approximate manner), may have a central discharge axis 366 extending outward from the corresponding pressure-closing nozzle 64. The discharge axis 366 may extend toward each other in a converging manner, or more specifically, approximately coaxially.

[0188] Reference Figure 22 and Figure 23 The baler suppression subsystem of the first embodiment includes one or more upper baler nozzles 66 or one or more upper nozzle assemblies 450 mounted to the rear housing 420 of the baler. In the first embodiment, there are baler nozzles 66 respectively mounted to the upper right sidewall and the upper left sidewall of the rear housing 420 of the baler. More specifically, there may be an upper right baler nozzle assembly 450 and an upper left baler nozzle assembly 450 respectively mounted to the right sidewall and the left sidewall of the front housing 420 of the baler.

[0189] Figure 23 The upper right nozzle assembly 450 shown can be represented (in both construction and function) as the upper left nozzle assembly 450, except that their mounting orientations are opposite to each other. Figure 23This is a separate left view of the upper right nozzle assembly 450 in the first embodiment. In the first embodiment, the upper right nozzle assembly 450 is similar to the lower right nozzle assembly 350. Figure 21 Apart from the changes noted and those obvious to a person skilled in the art, the reference numerals for most features of the upper right nozzle assembly 450 are increased by 100 compared to the corresponding features of the lower right nozzle assembly 350.

[0190] The body 452 of the upper right nozzle assembly 450 can be connected to the right wall of the baler rear housing 420 such that at least a portion of the left surface 456 of the body 452 is face-to-face with (and optionally in face-to-face contact with) the outer surface of the right wall (or more specifically, the right wall panel of the baler rear housing), thereby positioning the upper edge of the left surface 456 below the upper wall of the baler rear housing. Threaded holes in the upper right nozzle assembly 450 (e.g., threaded holes for mounting nuts 458) can respectively receive externally threaded fasteners (e.g., bolts) extending through corresponding holes in the right wall of the baler rear housing 420, or more specifically, the right wall panel. Holes in the body 452 can be aligned with the threaded holes of the nuts 458. Alternatively or additionally, the connection between the upper nozzle assembly 450 and the baler rear housing 420 can be provided by suitable fasteners, frames, connectors, welding, etc.

[0191] The upper right baler suppressor nozzle 66 can be connected to a corresponding threaded hole in the upper right nozzle assembly 450 (e.g., nut 460) via a threaded connector (not shown) with external threads. The threaded connector of the upper right baler suppressor nozzle 66 can be connected (e.g., by thread) to the corresponding threaded hole in the upper right nozzle assembly 450 (e.g., nut 460) such that the threaded connector of the upper right baler suppressor nozzle 66 extends through and protrudes from a hole in the body 452 aligned with the threaded hole of the nut 460. Alternatively or additionally, the connection between the upper baler nozzle 66 and the rear baler housing 320 can be provided by suitable fasteners, frames, connectors, welding, etc.

[0192] Liquid extinguishing agent can be supplied to the upper baler suppression nozzle 66 via pipe fittings of the corresponding legs of the piping system 114, the respective legs of which are connected (e.g., by thread) to a threaded joint with external threads on the upper right baler suppression nozzle 66. Additionally or alternatively, the connection between the upper baler suppression nozzle 66 and the piping system 114 can be provided in any other suitable manner, including pipes, fittings, connectors, welding, etc. The discharge ends of the left and right upper baler suppression nozzles 66 protrude into the internal space of the baler chamber (e.g., the chamber of the module builder 34). In other examples, the discharge ends of the upper baler suppression nozzles 66 are at least partially recessed relative to the inner surfaces of the right and left side panels of the baler 34; for example, they may be flush or further recessed.

[0193] The upper baler suppression nozzle 66 of the first embodiment is configured to discharge the extinguishing agent as a mist and / or fog into the interior space of the baler chamber (e.g., the chamber of the module builder 34). The mist and / or fog may be discharged from the upper baler suppression nozzle 66 in a conical pattern, although the cone may only be present relatively closely adjacent to the upper baler suppression nozzle 66 due to the relatively small particle size of the mist and / or fog. Similar to the lower baler suppression nozzle 64, the mist and / or fog pattern of the upper baler suppression nozzle 66 may each have a central discharge axis extending outward from the respective upper baler suppression nozzle. The discharge axes 66 of the upper baler suppression nozzles 66 may extend toward each other, or more specifically, approximately coaxially. In the first embodiment, the baler suppression subsystem is configured to operate such that the liquid extinguishing agent discharged from the baler suppression nozzles 64, 66 consists of or is substantially composed of mist and / or fog.

[0194] Figure 2 An example of the predetermined maximum size of the bale 336 produced by the baler 34 of the first embodiment is shown. Figure 2 The example further depicts the baler suppressor nozzles 64, 66 positioned radially outward from the cylindrical periphery of the bale (e.g., module) (e.g., relative to the center (e.g., rotational) axis of the bale 336), such that the mist and / or fog spray pattern (e.g., see...) Figure 20Pattern 363) is positioned radially outward from the cylindrical periphery of the bale. This arrangement aims to allow mist and / or fog from the baler suppression nozzles 64, 66 to be distributed in otherwise unoccupied internal spaces of the baler chamber to at least partially encapsulate the module (e.g., bale 336) in the mist and / or fog of the extinguishing agent. More generally, the baler suppression nozzles 64, 66 may be positioned outward from the central region of the baler chamber where the bale 336 or other suitable module is formed, such that the mist and / or fog spray pattern is positioned outward from the central region of the baler chamber where the bale or other module is formed. Furthermore, the baler suppression nozzles 64, 66 may be positioned close to the corresponding baler belt 332, such that the traveling baler belt carries mist and / or fog from the baler suppression nozzles 64, 66 in a manner that seeks to distribute the mist and / or fog in otherwise unoccupied internal spaces of the baler chamber. Figure 2 In the example, the baler suppression nozzles 64, 66 are positioned adjacent portions of the baler belt 332 such that the spray pattern of mist and / or fog from the suppression nozzles 64, 66 can extend into the gap defined between adjacent portions of the baler belt 332.

[0195] The baler suppression subsystem of the first embodiment is configured such that the central axes of predetermined pairs of mist and / or fog spray patterns extending outward from the baler suppression nozzles 64, 66 can extend convergingly (e.g., coaxially) relative to each other. As another example, the central axes of the predetermined pairs of mist and / or fog spray patterns extending outward from the baler suppression nozzles 64, 66 can extend along each other (e.g., parallel to each other). As another example, the central axes of the mist and / or fog spray patterns extending outward from the baler suppression nozzles 64, 66 can extend along (e.g., parallel to) the corresponding features of the accumulator 32 (e.g., the longitudinal axis of rotation of the roller 334) and / or intersect (e.g., perpendicular to) the corresponding features of the accumulator 32 (the length and direction of travel of the belt 332).

[0196] Regarding the general features of the harvester 10, to facilitate its routine operation, the harvester may include a conventional controller or digital computer (not shown), which includes one or more of each of, for example, a central processing unit or processor, computer hardware integrated circuits or memory, data storage, and / or device interfaces. For example, one or more device interfaces of the conventional controller or computer may be operatively associated with sensors, switches, and other features to facilitate the routine operation of the harvester 10. As another example, one or more device interfaces of the conventional controller or computer may be operatively associated with one or more user interfaces configured to allow a user to input commands and information into the conventional controller or computer, and configured to allow the conventional controller or computer to output information to the user. For example, input features of the user interface may include a keyboard, a cursor control device (e.g., a mouse), a touch-enabled visual display (e.g., a capacitive or other sensor configured to detect physical contact), and / or any other suitable device. As another example, output features of the user interface may include a display device (e.g., a monitor or projector), a speaker, and / or any other suitable device. The conventional controller may be in the form of a distributed computing system; therefore, the features of the conventional controller can be extended across individual computers.

[0197] The harvester 10 of the first embodiment can be operated in a conventional manner to harvest cotton planting material and any associated debris, clean the raw cotton from it, and discharge the raw cotton in the form of bales 336. During this process, flammable debris may accumulate outside the material flow path of the harvester. For example, debris may pass outwards through the grids 138, 160 (…). Figure 2 , Figure 4 , Figure 13 and Figure 17 And accumulate on the exposed upper surface of the harvester 10 (e.g., on the deck).

[0198] As an example, occasionally, the rotating machinery in the harvesting device 20 and / or field cleaner 28 may engage any rocks, metal scraps, and / or any other type of debris contained in the material flow path of the harvester. Any such engagement can generate sparks, such that sparks or embers can be trapped in the material flow path of the harvester. The sparks and embers can interact with the harvested plant material in the material flow path of the harvester and ignite therein. As a more specific example, the sparks and embers can interact with the harvested plant material in the accumulator chamber (e.g., the chamber of accumulator 32) and ignite therein. The flames can spread to other areas of the harvester 10, such as to raw cotton in the baler chamber (e.g., the chamber of module builder 34). As an example of an external fire, flammable debris accumulated on the exposed upper surface of the harvester 10 (e.g., deck 14) or around the harvester may ignite. External flames can be generated by flames extending outward through the grilles 138, 160 ( Figure 2 , Figure 4 , Figure 13 and Figure 17 Sparks or embers from a fire could cause fires that fall onto any debris that accumulates on the exposed upper surface of the harvester 10 (e.g., deck 14). As another example, sparks, embers, and / or fires in a harvester can be caused by a variety of other factors, including equipment malfunction, lightning strikes, static electricity, etc.

[0199] The accumulator suppression subsystem of the first embodiment is configured to at least partially control and / or suppress sparks, embers, and / or flames in the accumulator chamber by discharging extinguishing agent from accumulator suppression nozzles 50, 54, 56, 60, and 62 in response to operation of the accumulator suppression pump 42. Similarly, the baler suppression subsystem of the first embodiment is configured to at least partially control and / or suppress sparks, embers, and / or flames in the baler chamber by discharging extinguishing agent from baler suppression nozzles 64 and 66 in response to operation of the baler suppression pump 44. In a somewhat similar manner, the ignition suppression subsystem of the first embodiment is configured such that, in response to operation of the ignition suppression pump 46, pressurized extinguishing agent is supplied to hose-end nozzle 49 (…). Figure 7 When the fire suppression pump 46 is in operation, the hose end nozzle 49 can be manually actuated by squeezing its rod or trigger to spray extinguishing agent into, above and / or around the harvester 10.

[0200] In the first embodiment, the suppression pumps 42, 44, 46 can be activated individually or collectively by manually pressing and / or selecting one or more corresponding buttons, icons, and / or other suitable features of the user interface 92. Figure 1 Similarly, pumps 42, 44, and 46 can be deactivated individually or collectively by manually pressing and / or selecting one or more corresponding buttons, icons, and / or other suitable features of the user interface 92. Figure 1 ).

[0201] As an example of automated operation, controller 86 may be configured to analyze one or more signals from one or more of detectors 68, 70, 72, 74 (e.g., signals including data from any detection indicating at least one predetermined fire-related condition), and to activate the operation of one or more of suppression pumps 42, 44, 46 in response to any detected fire-related condition exceeding a threshold.

[0202] The following describes an example of the method for operating the accumulator and the baler suppression pumps 42 and 44 according to the first embodiment. Suppression system controller 86 ( Figure 5 The system can be configured to include an "interlock" or other suitable feature, such that the operation of the accumulator suppression pump 42 and the baler suppression pump 44 is initiated at approximately the same time, or more specifically, simultaneously. The suppression system controller 86 can be further configured such that after the initiation of operation of the accumulator suppression pump 42 and the baler suppression pump 44, the operation of the accumulator suppression pump 42 automatically stops at a first predetermined time before the automatic stopping of the baler suppression pump 44. The automatic stopping of the baler suppression pump 44 may occur at a second predetermined time after the first predetermined time.

[0203] Optionally, the operation of the suppression system controller 86 and the harvester's conventional controller (not shown) can be coordinated in response to a manual start command and / or automatic operation of the suppression system controller 86. In one example of these coordinated operations, both the feed operation mode of the accumulator 32 and the baler's baling operation mode discussed above can be started approximately simultaneously or more specifically simultaneously with the start of the operation of the accumulator suppression pump 42 and the baler suppression pump 44. Subsequently, the stopping of the feed operation mode of the accumulator 32 and the stopping of the operation of the accumulator suppression pump 42 can occur approximately simultaneously or more specifically simultaneously. Subsequently, the stopping of the baler's baling operation mode can occur before the stopping of the operation of the baler suppression pump 44. For example, the baler suppression subsystem of the first embodiment is configured to at least partially and adequately control and / or suppress any sparks, embers, and / or flames in the baler chamber for a sufficient period of time, so that, for example, while the bale 336 is held in the baler chamber, the harvester 10 can be driven across land to a relatively fire-resistant location. The fire-resistant location can be a natural, clean, and / or other constructed area with a relatively reduced amount of combustible material. The fire-resistant location can be adjacent to a field being harvested and / or in any other suitable location. When the harvester 10 reaches the fire-resistant location, the baler gate or rear housing 226 can be actuated to deliver the bale 336 onto the extended unloader 36, which can then place the bale in a relatively fire-resistant location. Alternatively or concurrently, the bale 336 can be carried by the unloader 36 as the vehicle 10 travels, and then the bale can be unloaded from the unloader.

[0204] One or more of the aforementioned features may be configured differently or omitted from the harvester 10. Optionally, one or more features of the detection system of this disclosure (e.g., detectors 68, 70, 72, 74 and one or more related features) may be omitted from the harvester 10. On the other hand, detectors 68, 70, 72, 74 and one or more related features may be included in the harvester 10. Signals from one or more of detectors 68, 70, 72, 74 may be processed (e.g., by a computer processor of the system controller 86) to provide relevant information that can be displayed to the user on the user interface 92. Figure 1This allows the user to use his or her judgment to activate the operation of one or more features of the suppression system (e.g., suppression pumps 42, 44, 46). As another example, signals from one or more of detectors 68, 70, 72, 74 can be processed (e.g., by the computer processor of the system controller 86) and used as part of the process of automatically activating the operation of one or more features of the suppression system. For example, the detection system of the first embodiment (e.g., detectors 68, 70, 72, 74) can be configured to rapidly detect sparks, embers, and / or flames at predetermined locations in the material flow path of the harvester, and the operation of corresponding components of the suppression system of the first embodiment (e.g., suppression pumps 42, 44, 46) can be manually or automatically activated in a manner seeking to rapidly and at least partially control and / or suppress sparks, embers, and / or flames. The suppression system can be configured to rapidly and at least partially control and / or suppress sparks, embers, and / or flames in a manner that allows for substantially continuous harvesting operations of the harvester 10.

[0205] The accumulator suppression subsystem of the first embodiment can be configured such that, in a single cycle of the system, the accumulator suppression pump 42 can supply 40 to 50 gallons of extinguishing agent to the interior space of the chamber of the accumulator 32 via accumulator suppression nozzles 50, 54, 56, 60, 62 over approximately 90 seconds. The baler suppression subsystem of the first embodiment can be configured such that, in a single cycle of the system, the baler suppression pump 44 can supply mist and / or fog to the interior space of the chamber of the module builder 34 for approximately 15 to 20 minutes via baler suppression nozzles 64, 66. In one example, each canister 40 ( Figure 4 It may contain 50 gallons of extinguishing agent, and the extinguishing agent may also be supplied from a conventional 68-gallon tank that is normally present on the harvester 10, so that the suppression system can run at least two complete suppression cycles before the suppression system is replenished with extinguishing agent.

[0206] One aspect of this disclosure is to provide a system that seeks to improve the safety of users operating harvester 10, to limit fire-related damage to the harvester (e.g., to limit any damage to mere surface damage), and to minimize downtime associated with fire-related events. Another aspect of this disclosure is to provide a system that seeks to provide early, rapid, and reliable detection of fires and fire risks in the harvester. Yet another aspect of this disclosure is to provide a system that seeks to provide effective suppression of fires and fire risks in critical high-risk areas of the harvester. A further aspect of this disclosure is to provide a suppression system that seeks to be rapidly prepared for reuse (e.g., by refilling the extinguishing agent refill tank 40). Figure 4 For example, because the detection system can use non-destructive detection methods (e.g., optical detection methods).

[0207] The accumulator suppression pump 42 of the first embodiment is a relatively high-flow-rate medium-pressure pump. As a more specific example, a suitable accumulator suppression pump 42 could be a centrifugal pump operated by a 12-volt electric motor, configured to provide a flow rate of approximately 26.5 gallons per minute (“gpm”) at a pressure of approximately 30 pounds per square inch (“psi”). More generally, a suitable accumulator suppression pump 42 is thought to be configured to provide a flow rate of approximately 20 gpm to approximately 50 gpm (or any value or subrange thereof) at a pressure ranging from approximately 20 psi to approximately 50 psi (or any value or subrange thereof).

[0208] The accumulator suppression subsystem of the first embodiment can be configured such that when the accumulator suppression pump 42 is operating and the accumulator suppression nozzles 50, 54, 56, 60, 62 are simultaneously discharging extinguishing agent, extinguishing agent is supplied to each upper nozzle assembly 52 at a pressure of approximately 15 psi, extinguishing agent is supplied to each lower nozzle assembly 58 at a pressure of approximately 29 psi, and extinguishing agent is supplied to each upper central accumulator suppression nozzle 50 at a pressure of approximately 13 psi. More generally, the accumulator suppression subsystem of the first embodiment is considered to be configured such that when the accumulator suppression pump 42 is operating and the accumulator suppression nozzles 50, 54, 56, 60, 62 are simultaneously discharging extinguishing agent, the extinguishing agent is supplied to each upper nozzle assembly 52 at a pressure ranging from about 7 psi to about 35 psi (or any value or subrange thereof), the extinguishing agent is supplied to each lower nozzle assembly 58 at a pressure ranging from about 14 psi to about 60 psi (or any value or subrange thereof), and the extinguishing agent is supplied to each upper central accumulator suppression nozzle 50 at a pressure ranging from about 6 psi to about 30 psi (or any value or subrange thereof).

[0209] The baler suppression pump 44 of the first embodiment is a relatively high-pressure, low-dynamic pump. As a more specific example, a suitable baler suppression pump 44 could be a 12-volt, electrically operated plunger or piston pump configured to provide a flow rate of approximately 1 gpm at a pressure of approximately 450 psi. More generally, a suitable baler suppression pump 44 is thought to be configured to provide a flow rate of approximately 0.2 gpm to approximately 3 gpm at a pressure ranging from approximately 200 psi to approximately 1000 psi (or any value or subrange thereof).

[0210] The fire suppression pump 46 of the first embodiment is a relatively medium-flow pump. As a more specific example, a suitable fire suppression pump 46 could be a diaphragm pump operated by a 12-volt electric motor, configured to provide a flow rate of approximately 7 gpm at a pressure of approximately 100 psi. More generally, a suitable fire suppression pump 46 is thought to be configured to provide a flow rate of approximately 50 gpm to approximately 150 gpm (or any value or subrange thereof) at a pressure range of approximately 2 psi to approximately 15 psi. As an example, the use of the term "relative" relative to suppression pumps 42, 44, 46 can be understood in the context of comparing the suppression pumps to each other.

[0211] The upper central accumulator suppression nozzle 50 of the first embodiment is configured to discharge extinguishing agent with a relatively wide-angled conical spray pattern (e.g., a hollow conical spray pattern), for example, to provide a main deluge for the accumulator suppression subsystem. As a more specific example, a suitable upper central accumulator suppression nozzle 50 may be a plug nozzle configured to provide a hollow conical spray pattern with an angle of approximately 140 degrees when operating at a pressure of approximately 30 psi and a flow rate of approximately 7 gpm. More generally, a suitable upper central accumulator suppression nozzle 50 is considered to be a plug nozzle configured to provide a hollow conical spray pattern with an average spray pattern in the range of approximately 120 degrees to approximately 170 degrees (or any value or subrange thereof) when operating at a pressure in the range of approximately 20 psi to approximately 50 psi (or any value or subrange thereof), and a flow rate in the range of approximately 3 gpm to approximately 20 gpm (or any value or subrange thereof).

[0212] The intermediate accumulator suppression nozzle 54 of the first embodiment is configured to discharge extinguishing agent at a relatively large angle and a conical spray pattern (e.g., a solid conical spray pattern). As a more specific example, when operating at a pressure of about 30 psi and a flow rate of about 3 gpm, a suitable intermediate accumulator suppression nozzle 54 may be configured to provide a solid conical spray pattern with an average droplet size of about 449 micrometers. More generally, when operating at a pressure in the range of about 20 psi to about 50 psi (or any value or subrange thereof), a suitable intermediate accumulator suppression nozzle 54 is considered to be configured to provide a solid conical spray pattern with an average droplet size in the range of about 211 micrometers to about 729 micrometers (or any value or subrange thereof), and a flow rate in the range of about 1 gpm to about 10 gpm (or any value or subrange thereof), while providing a spray pattern with an angle in the range of about 80 degrees to about 120 degrees (or any value or subrange thereof).

[0213] The front and rear accumulator suppression nozzles 56 of the first embodiment are configured to discharge extinguishing agent with a relatively narrow fan-shaped spray pattern. As a more specific example, when operating at a pressure of about 30 psi and a flow rate of about 2 gpm, a suitable accumulator suppression nozzle 56 may be configured to provide a fan-shaped spray pattern with an average droplet size of about 781 micrometers. More generally, when operating at a pressure in the range of about 20 psi to about 50 psi (or any value or subrange thereof), a suitable accumulator suppression nozzle 56 is considered to be configured to provide a fan-shaped spray pattern with an average droplet size in the range of about 417 micrometers to about 1165 micrometers (or any value or subrange thereof), and a flow rate in the range of about 1 gpm to about 10 gpm (or any value or subrange thereof), while providing a spray pattern with an angle of about 15 degrees.

[0214] The lower accumulator suppression nozzle 60 of the first embodiment is configured to discharge extinguishing agent with a relatively narrow fan-shaped spray pattern. As a more specific example, when operating at a pressure of about 30 psi and a flow rate of about 2 gpm, a suitable accumulator suppression nozzle 60 may be configured to discharge extinguishing agent with a relatively narrow fan-shaped spray pattern having an average droplet size of about 781 micrometers. More generally, when operating at a pressure in the range of about 20 psi to about 50 psi (or any value or subrange thereof), a suitable accumulator suppression nozzle 60 is considered to be configured to discharge extinguishing agent with a relatively narrow fan-shaped spray pattern having an average droplet size in the range of about 417 micrometers to about 1165 micrometers (or any value or subrange thereof), and a flow rate in the range of about 1 gpm to about 5 gpm (or any value or subrange thereof), while providing a spray pattern with an angle of about 15 degrees.

[0215] The baler suppression nozzles 64, 66 of the first embodiment are configured to initially discharge the extinguishing agent as a mist and / or fog in a conical pattern. As a more specific example, when operating at a pressure of about 600 psi and a flow rate of about 0.25 gpm, a suitable accumulator suppression nozzle 64, 66 may be configured to discharge the extinguishing agent as a mist and / or fog with an average droplet size of about 79 micrometers. More generally, when operating at a pressure in the range of about 300 psi to about 2000 psi (or any value or subrange thereof), a suitable accumulator suppression nozzle 66 is considered to be configured to discharge the extinguishing agent as a mist and / or fog with an average droplet size in the range of about 29 micrometers to about 149 micrometers (or any value or subrange thereof), and a flow rate in the range of about 0.1 gpm to about 1 gpm (or any value or subrange thereof). The baler suppression nozzles 64, 66 of the first embodiment are configured to fill (e.g., substantially fill) the interior of the chamber of the module builder 34 with a fire extinguishing agent in the form of mist and / or fog. As an example, the use of the term "relative" relative to the suppression nozzles 50, 54, 56, 60, 62 can be understood in the context of comparing the suppression nozzles to each other.

[0216] The first embodiment described above is provided as an example, and many variations of the first embodiment are within the scope of this disclosure. For example, one or more features of the first embodiment may be omitted, rearranged, reconfigured, repeated, reduced in number, and / or varied in any other suitable manner. As an example of an alternative embodiment, it is considered that the harvester 10 may be modified to be towed behind a tractor. As an example of a trailing harvester, the engine compartment 16 ( Figure 1 The contents of the tractor can be omitted from the trailing harvester, and the corresponding features of the trailing harvester (e.g., its hydraulic and electrical systems) can be coupled to the corresponding features of the tractor (e.g., its hydraulic and electrical systems). Other types of harvesters, such as combine harvesters, are also within the scope of this disclosure.

[0217] As another example, a second embodiment of this disclosure may be similar to the first embodiment (e.g., in configuration and function), except for noticeable changes and changes obvious to those skilled in the art. In the second embodiment, the harvester is a cotton picker rather than a cotton stripper. As a more specific example of a version of the second embodiment, a system for detecting adverse fire-related conditions and a system for at least partially controlling and / or suppressing adverse fire-related conditions are both incorporated into the cotton picker, which is a conventional JOHN DEERE CP690 cotton stripper prior to being retrofitted with the detection and suppression systems.

[0218] The harvesting device of the second embodiment (for example, see...) Figure 1The harvesting device 20 of the first embodiment includes a row of barbed spindles in the form of rotating machinery configured to rotate and remove raw cotton from the cotton plant. The harvesting device of the second embodiment also includes rotating machinery in the form of a counter-rotating brush or cotton remover configured to remove raw cotton from the spindles. The cotton picker of the second embodiment typically does not include the intermediate conduit 26, field cleaner 28, and downstream conduit 30 of the first embodiment. Instead, the cotton picker of the second embodiment is typically configured such that a plurality of supply conduits arranged parallel to each other (e.g., similar to / see the upstream conduit 24 of the first embodiment) supply raw cotton from the harvesting device directly into the interior of the accumulation chamber, and each supply conduit may be equipped with a detector 68 in substantially the same manner as the upstream conduit 24 of the first embodiment is equipped with an upstream detector 68. One or more of U.S. Patents 4,463,543, 6,550,230, 7,631,716, and 9,313,952 are believed to disclose examples of suitable harvesting devices and supply conduits (e.g., supply conduits configured to supply raw cotton from the harvesting device into the interior of the accumulation chamber).

[0219] To supplement this disclosure, the entire disclosures of the following patents are incorporated by reference: U.S. Patent 7,631,716; U.S. Patent 7,026,619; U.S. Patents 4,606,177, 5,311,728, and 6,018,938; U.S. Patents 4,606,177, 6,159,094, and 9,763,387; U.S. Patent Publication 2014 / 0157745; U.S. Patents 6,941,740, 7,631,716, 8,925,287, and 10,034,433; U.S. Patent Publication 2018 / 0242527; and U.S. Patents 4,463,543, 6,550,230, and 9,313,952.

[0220] As reiterated above, for the purpose of providing a broad disclosure, one or more of the terms "substantially," "approximately," "about," etc., define the scope of each adjective and adverb in the above disclosure. As an example, it is believed that those skilled in the art will readily understand that reasonably different engineering tolerances, precisions, and / or accuracyes are applicable and suitable for obtaining the desired results in different embodiments of the features of this disclosure. Therefore, it is believed that those skilled in the art will readily understand the use of terms such as "substantially," "approximately," "about," etc., herein.

[0221] Examples of embodiments have been disclosed in the specification and drawings. The invention is not limited to such exemplary embodiments. The use of the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Unless otherwise stated, particular terms are used in a general and descriptive sense and not for limiting purposes.

Claims

1. A vehicle configured to at least partially handle harvested planting material and at least partially control any sparks, embers, and / or flames associated with said planting material, said vehicle comprising: Chassis; An accumulator, supported by the chassis and configured to repeatedly accumulate and discharge the harvested plant material; as well as A nozzle assembly includes a body mounted to an inner surface of a sidewall of the accumulator, and a nozzle mounted to the body, the nozzle being configured to receive extinguishing agent through the body under pressure. The nozzle is configured to discharge the extinguishing agent into the accumulator in a spray pattern, and The nozzle is mounted on an inclined portion of the body, such that the spray pattern has an inclined central axis.

2. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, The nozzle and the body are configured such that the inclined central axis of the jet pattern extends toward a vertical corner in the interior of the accumulator.

3. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, The nozzle and the body are configured cooperatively such that the inclined central axis of the spray pattern extends toward the hollow region of the hollow spray pattern of another nozzle of the vehicle.

4. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, The nozzle is the first nozzle; The inclined portion is the first inclined portion; The spray pattern is the first spray pattern; The nozzle assembly further includes a second nozzle, which is mounted to a second inclined portion of the body and configured to receive extinguishing agent under pressure and discharge the extinguishing agent into the interior of the accumulator in a second spray pattern; The second nozzle is mounted to the second inclined portion of the body such that the second spray pattern has an inclined central axis that extends divergently relative to the inclined central axis of the first spray pattern.

5. The vehicle according to claim 1, comprising a piping system, wherein, The piping system includes pipe fittings; The inclined portion of the main body is the inclined surface of the main body; The body includes a vertical surface mounted to the inner surface of the sidewall of the accumulator; The inclined surface is inclined relative to the vertical surface; The main body defines a channel extending through the vertical surface; The pipe fitting is connected to the channel that extends through the vertical surface; The main body defines a channel extending through the inclined surface; and The nozzle is connected to the channel that extends through the inclined surface.

6. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, The nozzle is the first nozzle; The spray pattern is the first spray pattern; The first nozzle is mounted to the inclined portion of the body such that the central axis of the first spray pattern is inclined downward. The vehicle includes a pump supported by a chassis, and the pump is configured to supply liquid fire extinguishing agent under pressure when the pump is in operation; The nozzle assembly includes a second nozzle mounted to the body; The first nozzle and the second nozzle are connected to the pump through at least one channel defined by the body for receiving the liquid extinguishing agent from the pump under pressure and discharging the liquid extinguishing agent into the interior of the accumulator; The first nozzle is configured such that the central axis of the first spray pattern extends outward from the first nozzle along a first direction; The second nozzle is configured to discharge the extinguishing agent in a second spray pattern, the second spray pattern extending outward from the second nozzle and having a central axis extending outward from the second nozzle along a second direction. The first nozzle, the second nozzle, and the body are configured cooperatively such that the first direction and the second direction are different from each other.

7. The vehicle according to claim 6, wherein, The second nozzle is mounted to the inclined portion of the body such that the central axis of the second spray pattern is inclined.

8. The vehicle according to claim 6, wherein, The inclined portion of the main body is the first inclined portion; The second nozzle is mounted to the second inclined portion of the main body; and The second nozzle and the body are configured such that the central axis of the second spray pattern is inclined and extends divergently relative to the central axis of the first spray pattern.

9. The vehicle according to claim 6, wherein, The main body of the nozzle assembly includes: The front surface extends downwards; The rear surface extends downwards; An intermediate surface extending downwardly at an angle between the front surface and the rear surface; and The at least one channel defined by the body includes a channel extending from the front surface, the rear surface, or the intermediate surface into the body; The first nozzle is connected to the outer end of the channel.

10. The vehicle according to claim 9, wherein, The body of the nozzle assembly includes a vertical surface; The front surface of the nozzle assembly extends at an angle to the vertical surface; The rear surface of the nozzle assembly extends at an angle to the vertical surface; and The intermediate surface of the nozzle assembly extends at an angle to the vertical surface.

11. The vehicle according to claim 6, wherein, The main body of the nozzle assembly includes: The front surface extends downwards; and The rear surface extends downwards. The at least one channel defined by the subject includes: A first channel extending from the front surface into the body; and A second channel extends from the rear surface into the body. The first nozzle is connected to the outer end of the first channel; The second nozzle is connected to the outer end of the second channel.

12. The vehicle according to claim 11, wherein, The body of the nozzle assembly includes a downwardly inclined intermediate surface located between the front surface and the rear surface; The at least one channel defined by the body further includes a third channel extending from the intermediate surface into the body; The nozzle assembly includes a third nozzle mounted to the body and connected to the pump at least through the third channel, for receiving the liquid extinguishing agent from the pump under pressure and discharging the liquid extinguishing agent into the internal space of the accumulator.

13. The vehicle according to claim 6, wherein, The main body of the nozzle assembly includes: Vertical surface; The upper surface extends downward at an angle from the upper edge of the vertical surface; An upper front surface that extends from the front edge of the vertical surface to the front edge of the upper surface; The upper rear surface extends from the rear edge of the vertical surface to the rear edge of the upper surface; The lower surface extends vertically from the lower edge of the vertical surface; The lower middle surface extends obliquely upward from the left edge of the lower surface to the lower edge of the upper left surface; The lower front surface extends obliquely upward from the front edge of the lower surface; and The lower rear surface extends obliquely upward from the rear edge of the lower surface.

14. The vehicle according to claim 13, wherein, The at least one channel defined by the body includes a channel extending from the lower intermediate surface, the lower front surface, or the lower rear surface into the body; The first nozzle is connected to the outer end of the channel.

15. The vehicle according to claim 6, wherein, The accumulator is configured to repeatedly accumulate and discharge the harvested plant material. The pump in question is the first pump; The vehicle also includes a chassis-supported module builder located downstream of the accumulator along a flow path configured to transport the harvested planting material; The vehicle also includes a second pump supported by the chassis; The vehicle also includes a third nozzle connected to the second pump for receiving the liquid extinguishing agent from the second pump under pressure; The third nozzle is configured to discharge the liquid extinguishing agent into the internal space of the module builder.

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