Folding row divider for a harvesting platform

Abstract

The present invention relates to a harvesting assembly for an agricultural machine comprising a structural frame. A feed roller is operably coupled with the structural frame. A deflector assembly is operably coupled with the structural frame. The deflector assembly includes a deflector plate that is at least partially positioned laterally outward of the feed roller. The deflector plate is rotatable relative to the structural frame between a first position and a second position.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference of related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 142,274, filed January 27, 2021, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to harvesting components for agricultural machinery, particularly for harvesting tall and robust plants. Background Technology

[0004] Several types of agricultural machinery and equipment have been developed to improve the productivity of harvesting a variety of crops. For example, some agricultural machinery may be configured for so-called tall and robust crops, such as sugarcane and sweet sorghum. Machines specifically designed for harvesting tall and robust plants are developed to facilitate the harvesting of this particular type of crop because their inherent characteristics require appropriate conditions from cutting to transfer to transport machines and / or trucks for full processing.

[0005] Machines used for harvesting tall and robust crops include a chassis that supports a series of components and mechanisms responsible for cutting, harvesting, conveying, and chopping sugarcane and / or sorghum into billets, which are then transferred to a transfer machine and / or sugarcane and / or sorghum trucks via a lifting assembly. Furthermore, this type of agricultural machinery has a harvesting assembly comprising multiple components such as row dividers, tilting rollers, bottom cutting discs, and lifting rollers.

[0006] In some cases, harvesting components can be detached from the machine to reduce its width and allow for transport within legal restrictions. However, disassembling these components is not a simple or quick task, requiring tools and experienced technicians to complete the service, ultimately consuming time and effort, which is reflected in crop costs and productivity. Therefore, improved harvesting components for agricultural machinery, as well as methods for operating harvesting components for agricultural machinery, will be welcomed in this technology. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The various aspects and advantages of this technology will be partially described in the following description, or may become clear from the description, or may be learned through the practice of this technology.

[0008] In some aspects, this subject matter relates to a harvesting assembly for agricultural machinery. The assembly includes a structural frame. A feed roller is operatively coupled to the structural frame. A deflector assembly is operatively coupled to the structural frame. The deflector assembly includes a deflector plate located at least partially laterally outside the feed roller. The deflector plate is rotatable relative to the structural frame between a first position and a second position.

[0009] In certain aspects, the present subject matter relates to a harvesting assembly for an agricultural machine. The assembly includes a structural frame. A row divider device is operably coupled with the structural frame. The row divider device includes a pivot frame and one or more feed rollers operably coupled with the pivot frame. A deflector assembly is operably coupled with the structural frame. The deflector assembly is rotatable relative to the structural frame between a first position and a second position.

[0010] In some aspects, the present subject matter relates to a method for operating a harvesting assembly for an agricultural machine. The method includes disengaging a fastener operably coupling a link to a structural frame. The method further includes moving the link from a first position to a second position such that a deflector plate operably coupled with the link moves from a first position to a second position. Finally, the method includes engaging the fastener operably coupling the link to the structural frame to retain the link in the second position.

[0011] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present technology will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the technology and help to explain the principles of the technology. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0012] The specification, with reference to the appended drawings, discloses fully and completely the present technology to one of ordinary skill in the art, including its best mode, and discloses the way it is to be made and used, in which:

[0013] Figure 1 is a schematic side view of a harvester for harvesting tall and robust vegetable crops, such as sugar cane and sorghum, in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

[0014] Figure 2 is an isolated perspective view of a harvesting assembly of a sugar cane and / or sorghum agricultural machine in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

[0015] Figure 3 is a front view of a harvesting assembly of a harvester in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter, with a row divider device in a working or open position;

[0016] Figure 4A and 4B are front and top views of a harvesting assembly shown in Figure 3 in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter, with a row divider device pivoted;

[0017] Figure 5A and 5B are front and top views of a harvesting assembly shown in Figure 3 in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter, with two end row divider devices pivoted;

[0018] Figure 6A and 6B are top and bottom views, respectively, of one of the pivot row dividers devices according to aspects of the present subject matter;

[0019] Figure 7A and 7B are internal side views of one of the row dividers devices in a working or open position and in a transport or pivoted position, respectively, according to aspects of the present subject matter;

[0020] Figure 8A and 8B are front views of one of the row dividers devices in a working or open position and in a transport or pivoted position, respectively, according to aspects of the present subject matter;

[0021] Figure 9A and 9B are outside side views of one of the row dividers devices in a working or open position and in a transport or pivoted position, respectively, according to aspects of the present subject matter;

[0022] Figure 10 is a side perspective view of a first row divider device in a first position according to aspects of the present subject matter;

[0023] Figure 11 is a side perspective view of a first row divider in a second position according to aspects of the present subject matter;

[0024] Figure 12 is a rear perspective view of a first row divider in a second position according to aspects of the present subject matter;

[0025] Figure 13 is Figure 10 is an enhanced view of Area XIII of

[0026] Figure 14 is a bottom perspective view of a first row divider device in a second position according to aspects of the present subject matter;

[0027] Figure 15 is a top perspective view of a first row divider device in a first position according to aspects of the present subject matter;

[0028] Figure 16 is a side perspective view of a first row divider device in a second position according to aspects of the present subject matter;

[0029] Figure 17 is a rear perspective view of a structural frame and a first row divider device according to aspects of the present subject matter;

[0030] Figure 18a flowchart illustrating a method for operating a harvesting assembly of an agricultural machine, in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

[0031] Figure 19 is a front perspective view of a harvester and harvesting assembly, in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

[0032] Figure 20 is a top perspective view of a harvesting assembly having a pair of deflectors in an extended first position, in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

[0033] Figure 21 is a side perspective view of one deflector of a pair of deflectors in an extended first position, in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

[0034] Figure 22 is a top perspective view of a harvesting assembly having a pair of deflectors in an intermediate position, in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

[0035] Figure 23 is a side perspective view of one deflector of a pair of deflectors in an intermediate position, in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

[0036] Figure 24 is a top perspective view of a harvesting assembly having a pair of deflectors in a folded second position, in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

[0037] Figure 25 is a side perspective view of one deflector of a pair of deflectors in a folded second position, in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter; and

[0038] Figure 26 a flowchart illustrating a method for operating a harvesting assembly of an agricultural machine, in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter.

[0039] The repeated use of reference characters in the present specification and drawings is intended to represent the same or similar features or elements of the technology. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the present disclosure, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the present disclosure and is not meant as a limitation of the present disclosure. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present disclosure without departing from the scope or spirit of the present disclosure. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment, can be used with another embodiment to yield still a further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present disclosure covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0041] In this document, relational terms such as first and second, top and bottom, and the like can be used solely to distinguish one entity or action from another entity or action without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions. The terms "comprises," "comprising," or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but can include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. An element proceeded by "comprises... a" does not, without more constraints, exclude the presence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises the element. The singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0042] As used herein, the terms "first," "second," and "third" can be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and not to signify location or importance of the individual components. Unless otherwise set forth herein, the terms "coupled," "fixed," "connected to," and like terms mean directly coupled, fixed, or connected, and not indirectly coupled, fixed, or connected via one or more intermediary components or features. The terms "upstream" and "downstream" refer to relative directions with respect to movement of an agricultural product through a system. For example, "upstream" refers to the direction from which the agricultural product moves, and "downstream" refers to the direction to which the agricultural product moves. The term "selectively" refers to the ability of a component to operate in various states (e.g., an ON state and an OFF state) based on manual and / or automatic control of the component.

[0043] The terms "front" and "rear" refer to relative positions along an agricultural machine with respect to a front-to-rear axis. A forward direction is a direction along the front-to-rear axis, which can also be referred to as a forward direction of motion of the machine. Further, an aft direction is a direction along the front-to-rear axis, which can also be referred to as an aft direction of motion of the machine. A lateral direction can be defined by a lateral axis that extends between a right side and a left side of the machine and can be perpendicular to the front-to-rear axis. Thus, any component positioned "laterally inboard" of a component can be positioned closer to the front-to-rear axis along the lateral axis, and any component positioned "laterally outboard" of the component can be positioned farther from the front-to-rear axis along the lateral axis. A longitudinal direction can be defined as a third direction in a three-dimensional plane that is perpendicular to the front-to-rear axis and the lateral axis. For example, a height of the machine can be defined in the longitudinal direction.

[0044] Furthermore, any arrangement of components that achieve the same function is a valid "association" to achieve the function. Therefore, any two components combined to achieve a specific function in this document can be considered "associated" with each other to achieve the desired function, regardless of the architecture or intermediate components. Similarly, any two components so associated can also be considered "operably connected" or "operably linked" to each other to achieve the desired function, and any two components that can be so associated can also be considered "operably linked" to each other to achieve the desired function. Some examples of operable connections include, but are not limited to, physically matchable, physically interactive components, wirelessly interactive, wirelessly interactive components, logically interactive and / or logically interactive components.

[0045] Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “one,” and “the” include the plural cases.

[0046] The approximate language used throughout the specification and claims is intended to modify any quantitative expression that may allow for variation without causing a change in the underlying function associated with it. Therefore, values ​​modified by one or more terms, such as “approximately,” “about,” “generally,” and “substantially,” are not limited to the specified precise values. In at least some cases, approximate language may correspond to the precision of the instrument used to measure the value, or to the precision of the method or apparatus used to construct or manufacture the component and / or system. For example, approximate language may refer to a range of 10%.

[0047] Furthermore, the technology of this application will be described in conjunction with exemplary embodiments. The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any embodiment described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments. Moreover, unless explicitly indicated otherwise, all embodiments described herein should be considered exemplary.

[0048] As used herein, when used in a list of two or more items, the term "and / or" means that any one of the listed items may be used alone, or any combination of two or more of the listed items may be used. For example, if a composition or component is described as including parts A, B, and / or C, then the composition or component may include A alone; B alone; C alone; a combination of A and B; a combination of A and C; a combination of B and C; or a combination of A, B, and C.

[0049] Generally, the present subject matter relates to a harvesting assembly for an agricultural machine and a method for operating the harvesting assembly. The harvesting assembly provided herein can be formed by at least two sets of row dividers arranged along a structural frame. Each row divider device includes a respective pivot frame. The harvesting assembly provided herein is capable of reducing the width of an agricultural machine for tall and stout plants without the need to disassemble the front components of the machine that limit its flow on the road during transportation. Moreover, the harvesting assembly for an agricultural machine manages to simplify and optimize the transportation process of the agricultural machine, resulting in practical logistical results that can ultimately provide significant productivity results in the harvesting process, taking into account the time and effort required to put these machines to work in the field.

[0050] In some examples, the harvesting assembly can include a structural frame. The row divider devices can be operably coupled with the structural frame. The row divider devices can include a pivot frame and one or more feed rollers operably coupled with the pivot frame. The deflector assembly can be operably coupled with the structural frame. The deflector assembly can be rotatable relative to the structural frame between a first position and a second position.

[0051] As each of the row divider devices and / or the deflector assembly can be movable between the first position and the second position, the overall width of the harvesting assembly can be reduced. As used herein, the overall width of the harvesting assembly can be defined by the distance between the outermost components of the harvesting assembly.

[0052] Referring now to Figure 1 , a side view of an agricultural machine 10 is shown in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure. As shown, the agricultural machine 10 is configured as a sugarcane harvester. However, in other examples, the agricultural machine 10 can correspond to any suitable agricultural harvester without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0053] As Figure 1 shown, the agricultural machine 10 includes a chassis 12, a pair of front wheels 14, a pair of rear wheels 16, and a cab 18. The agricultural machine 10 can also include a primary power source (e.g., an engine mounted on the chassis 12) that provides power to one or both pairs of wheels 14, 16 through a transmission. Alternatively, the agricultural machine 10 can be a belt-driven harvester and thus can include a belt driven by the primary power source in place of the illustrated wheels 14, 16. The primary power source can also drive a hydraulic fluid pump arranged to generate pressurized hydraulic fluid to drive various hydraulic components of the agricultural machine 10.

[0054] Further, the agricultural machine 10 can include various components for cutting, processing, cleaning, and unloading the sugarcane as it is harvested from the field 20. For example, the agricultural machine 10 can include a tip cutter assembly 22 positioned at its front end to intercept the sugarcane as the agricultural machine 10 moves in the forward direction indicated by arrow X. As shown, the tip cutter assembly 22 can include a clamp disc 24 and a cutter disc 26. The clamp disc 24 can be configured to collect the crop stalks so that the cutter disc 26 can be used to cut the tip of each stalk. In various examples, the height of the tip cutter assembly 22 can be adjusted by a pair of arms 28 that can be hydraulically raised and lowered.

[0055] Further, the agricultural machine 10 can include a harvesting assembly 100 that can include one or more row divider devices 30 that extend upwardly and rearwardly from the field 20. Generally, the one or more row divider devices 30 can include a screw feed roller 32, each of which can also be referred to as a "lollipop." Each feed roller 32 can include a ground plate 34 as its lower end assists the one or more divider devices 30 by dividing the crop stalks for harvesting. Further, as shown, the agricultural machine 10 can include a dump roller 36 positioned proximate the front wheels 14 and a spiked roller 38 positioned rearward of the dump roller 36. As the dump roller 36 rotates, the harvested crop stalks are dumped while the row divider devices 30 collect the stalks from the field 20 to the interior of the machine 10. Further, as shown, the spiked roller 38 can include a plurality of intermittently mounted fins 40 that help force the crop stalks downward. During harvesting, as the roller 38 rotates, the crop stalks that have been dumped by the dump roller 36 are separated and subsequently dumped by the roller 38 as the agricultural machine 10 continues to move forward relative to the field 20. Figure 1 Figure 1 As shown, the spiked roller 38 can include a plurality of intermittently mounted fins 40 that help force the crop stalks downward. During harvesting, as the roller 38 rotates, the crop stalks that have been dumped by the dump roller 36 are separated and subsequently dumped by the roller 38 as the agricultural machine 10 continues to move forward relative to the field 20.

[0056] Further reference to Figure 1 , the agricultural machine 10 can also include a bottom cutter device 42 positioned rearward of the roller 38. Generally, the bottom cutter device 42 can include blades for cutting the crop stalks as the sugarcane is harvested. The blades, positioned on the periphery of the bottom cutter device 42, can be rotated by a hydraulic motor, such as driven by the hydraulic system of the vehicle. Further, in several embodiments, the blades can be angled downward to cut the bottom of the sugarcane as it is dumped by the roller 38.

[0057] As understood by those skilled in the art, these components and mechanisms that form the harvesting assembly 100 of the machine 10 can be mounted directly on the structure of the chassis 12 or also on a separate front platform, allowing for the exchange and replacement of these elements to adapt the proper adequacy and configuration of the machine 10 to the characteristics of the crop to be harvested in the field 20. ​

[0058] Furthermore, the agricultural machinery 10 may include a group of one or more conveyor rollers 44 located downstream of the bottom cutting device 42 to move the cut crop stalks from the bottom cutting device 42 along the processing path. Figure 1 As shown, the conveyor roller assembly 44 may include a plurality of lower rollers 46 and a plurality of upper rollers 48. When sugarcane is conveyed through the conveyor roller assembly 44, waste (e.g., stones, soil and / or similar materials) may also be conveyed or fall onto the field 20 via the lower rollers 46.

[0059] Additionally, the agricultural machinery 10 may include a slicer device 50 located at the downstream end of the conveyor roller assembly 44 (e.g., near the final lower and upper rollers 46, 48). Typically, the slicer device 50 is used to cut or shred harvested crop stalks into smaller pieces or “pieces” 51, with a size such as 15.24 cm (6 inches), and may also be referred to as billets. The pieces 51 can then be advanced in the direction of the lifting assembly 52 of the agricultural machinery 10 for collection on an external receiver or storage device.

[0060] Typically, waste 53 (e.g., dust, objects, leaves, etc.) separated from sugarcane fragments 51 can be discharged from agricultural machinery 10 via a main waste extraction device 54, located behind the chipper device 50 and oriented to guide the waste 53 out of the agricultural machinery 10. Furthermore, a fan 56 can be mounted on the main extractor 54 to generate suction or vacuum sufficient to capture the waste 53 and force it through. The waste 53 is then guided out through the outlet of the main extractor 54, typically in the opposite direction to the agricultural machinery 10. Fragments 51 that have been separated and are heavier than the waste 53 discharged from the extractor 54 can then fall into the lifting assembly 52.

[0061] like Figure 1 As shown, the lifting assembly 52 typically includes a lifting housing 58 and a lifting mechanism 60 extending into the lifting housing 58 between a lower proximal end 62 and an upper distal end 64. Typically, the lifting mechanism 60 may include a chain or conveyor belt 66 and a plurality of paddles or protrusions 68 coupled or evenly spaced in the chain 66. The protrusions 68 may be configured to retain the sugarcane fragment 51 within the lifting mechanism 60 as it rises toward the top of the lifting mechanism 70. Furthermore, the lifting mechanism 60 may include a lower sprocket 72 and an upper sprocket 74 positioned around the proximal end 62 and distal end 64, respectively. Figure 1 As shown, the lifting motor 76 can be coupled to one of the sprockets (e.g., upper sprocket 74) to drive the chain 66, thereby allowing the chain 66 and the protrusion 68 to move in a circular loop between the proximal end 62 and the distal end 64 of the lifting machine 60.

[0062] Further, waste 53 (e.g., dirt, trash, leaves, etc.) separated from the cane pieces 51 can be expelled from the agricultural machine 10 by a secondary waste extractor assembly 78 attached to the rear end of the elevator 58. As shown, Figure 1 The secondary extractor assembly 78 can be located near the distal end 64 of the elevator 60 and can be oriented to direct the waste 53 out of the agricultural machine 10. Further, a fan 80 can be mounted on the secondary extractor 78 to create a suction or vacuum sufficient to extract the waste 53 and force the waste 53 through the secondary extractor 78. The pieces 51 that are separated and heavier than the waste 53 that is expelled through the extractor 78 can then fall from the distal end 64 of the elevator 60. Typically, the pieces 51 can fall through an ejection opening 82 of the elevator assembly 52 into an external storage device, such as a truck, a transfer machine, a dump truck, etc.

[0063] During operation, the agricultural machine 10 is driven throughout the field 20 to harvest the cane. Once the height of the tip cutter 22 is adjusted (if used) by the arm 28, the chuck 24 in the tip cutter assembly 22 can work in such a way as to cluster the cane tips as the agricultural machine 10 progresses through the field 20, while the cutter disk 26 cuts the multi-leaf tips of the crop stalks to be expelled along the sides of the agricultural machine 10. As the stalks enter the one or more divider devices 30, the plates 34 can fixedly or adjustably set the width of operation to determine the amount of cane that enters the entrance opening of the agricultural machine 10. The lollipops 32 then collect the stalks at the machine entrance to allow the dump roller 36 to bend the stalks downward under the action of the finned roller 38. Once the stalks are positioned at an angle, as shown, Figure 1 The bottom cutter device 42 can then cut the bottom of the stalks from the field 20. The cut stalks are then directed to the conveyor roller assembly 44.

[0064] The cut cane stalks are conveyed rearward by the conveyor rollers 46, 48, which compress the stalks and the harvested material. At the downstream end of the conveyor roller assembly 44, the chipper device 50 cuts or chops the compacted crop stalks into pieces or chips 51. The conveyed waste 53 (e.g., dirt, trash, leaves, etc.) separated from the cane is then extracted by the primary waste extractor assembly 54 using the suction or vacuum created by the fan 56. The separated / washed chips 51 then fall to the elevator assembly 52 and travel upward through the elevator 60 from the proximal end 62 to the distal end 64. During normal operation, once the chips 51 reach the distal end 64 of the elevator 60, the chips 51 fall through the ejection opening 82 to an external storage device. Similar to the primary extractor 54, the waste is blown out of the agricultural machine 10 with the help of the fan 80 through the secondary waste extractor assembly 78.

[0065] Moreover, although the drawings represent a front structure arranged for harvesting two planting rows, thus composed of two front elements, as understood by those skilled in the art, the harvesting assembly 100 can be arranged for harvesting in only one or more planting rows, varying according to the interest of the project and market demand, without interfering with the scope of the present disclosure.

[0066] Moreover, although the drawings represent the harvesting assembly 100 as a separate platform, as previously mentioned, the harvesting assembly 100 can be additionally or alternatively mounted directly on the chassis 12 of the machine 10.

[0067] Reference will now be made to Figures 2-9B the harvesting assembly 100, in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure. As shown, the harvesting assembly 100 can include a structural frame 102 on which one or more row divider devices 30 are mounted for separating and directing crop stalks for harvesting. Moreover, the harvesting assembly 100 can include at least one dump roller 36 arranged upstream of a bottom cutting device 42, which is formed by a drive box 104 from which a rotational shaft 106 protrudes, and an end of which supports a bottom cutting disc 108 provided with blades to cut crop (e.g., sugarcane and / or sorghum) stalks as harvesting is performed along the field 20.

[0068] In Figures 2-9B the example shown, the harvesting assembly 100 can be configured as a multi-row harvester, and thus can include a center section divider device 30, a first row divider device 30, and a second row divider device 30. In some examples, the center section divider can include one or more center section feed rollers 32 operably coupled with a center section frame 118. The first row divider device 30 can include one or more feed rollers 32 and one or more plates 34 operably coupled with a first pivot frame 110. Similarly, the second row divider device 30 can include one or more feed rollers 32 and one or more plates 34 operably coupled with a second pivot frame 114.

[0069] In certain instances, the first row divider device 30 includes a pair of feed rollers 32 operably coupled with the first pivot frame 110. The pair of feed rollers 32 can be positioned laterally outward of the one or more center section feed rollers 32. A first opening 120 can be defined between the one or more center section feed rollers 32 and the feed rollers 32 operably coupled with the first pivot frame 110 for separating and directing crop stalks for harvesting.

[0070] In various examples, the first pivot frame 110 is pivotable between at least a first operational position, as shown in Figure 2 , and a second operational position, as shown in Figure 5AThe first pivot frame 110 is movable between at least a first operational position (as shown) and a second storage position (as shown). In such examples, when the first pivot frame 110 is in the first position, the one or more center section feed rollers 32 are a first distance from either of the pair of feed rollers 32 operably coupled with the first pivot frame 110. Further, when the first pivot frame 110 is in the second position, the one or more center section feed rollers 32 are a second, smaller distance from either of the pair of feed rollers 32 operably coupled with the first pivot frame 110. As such, when the first pivot frame 110 is placed in the first operational position, the first opening 120 can have a first width, while when the first pivot frame 110 is placed in the second storage position, the first opening 120 has a second, smaller width.

[0071] In certain instances, a second row divider device 30 is positioned on an opposite side of the center section divider device from the first row divider set 30 and is operably coupled with the structural frame 102. The second row divider device 30 can include a pair of feed rollers 32 operably coupled with a second pivot frame 114. A second opening 122 can be defined between the one or more center section feed rollers 32 and the feed rollers 32 operably coupled with the second pivot frame 114 for separating and directing crop stalks for harvesting.

[0072] In various examples, the second pivot frame 114 is movable between at least a first operational position (as shown) and a second storage position (as shown). In such examples, when the second pivot frame 114 is in the first position, the one or more center section feed rollers 32 are a first distance from either of the pair of feed rollers 32 operably coupled with the second pivot frame 114. Further, when the second pivot frame 114 is in the second position, the one or more center section feed rollers 32 are a second, smaller distance from either of the pair of feed rollers 32 operably coupled with the second pivot frame 114. As such, when the second pivot frame 114 is placed in the first operational position, the second opening 122 can have a first width, while when the second pivot frame 114 is placed in the second storage position, the second opening can have a second, smaller width. Figure 2 Figure 5A In various examples, when the first pivot frame 110 is moved between the first position and the second position, the plate 34 associated with each feed roller 32 within the first row divider device 30 can be configured to move with the first pivot frame 110. Likewise, when the second pivot frame 114 is moved between the first position and the second position, the plate 34 associated with each feed roller 32 within the second row divider device 30 can be configured to move with the second pivot frame 114.

[0073] In various examples, when the first pivot frame 110 is moved between the first position and the second position, the plate 34 associated with each feed roller 32 within the first row divider device 30 can be configured to move with the first pivot frame 110. Likewise, when the second pivot frame 114 is moved between the first position and the second position, the plate 34 associated with each feed roller 32 within the second row divider device 30 can be configured to move with the second pivot frame 114.

[0074] ​Further reference is made to Figures 2-9B In the illustrated example, the first pivot frame 110 can be operably coupled with the structural frame 102 by a first connecting element 112. Similarly, the second pivot frame 114 can be operably coupled with the structural frame 102 by a second connecting element 116. Each of the first and second connecting elements 112, 116 can have any geometric shape. Further, the first connecting element 112 can be integrally formed with or later attached to and / or movable with the first pivot frame 110. The second connecting element 116 can be integrally formed with or later attached to and / or movable with the second pivot frame 114. Additionally or alternatively, the first and / or second connecting elements 112, 116 can be integrally formed with or later attached to the structural frame 102, and the first and / or second pivot frames 110, 114 can be movable relative to the second connecting element 116.

[0075] In certain instances, the harvesting assembly 100 can include a locking element, such as a retainer 142, for retaining the first and / or second pivot frames 110, 114 in their respective first open position or second pivoted position. Generally, the locking elements can each be configured as a mechanical element, an electrical element, a hydraulic element, a pneumatic element, a combination thereof, and / or any other element capable of retaining the first and / or second pivot frames 110, 114 in a selected position.

[0076] Additionally or alternatively, the harvesting assembly 100 can include an actuator that facilitates movement of the first and / or second pivot frames 110, 114 between their respective first open position or second pivoted position. In various examples, each actuator can be configured as a mechanical actuator, an electrical actuator, a hydraulic actuator, a pneumatic actuator, a combination thereof, and / or any other actuator capable of moving the first and / or second pivot frames 110, 114 to a selected position. Additionally or alternatively, the first and / or second pivot frames 110, 114 can be manually moved.

[0077] In several examples, the harvesting assembly 100 is mounted directly or indirectly on a front structure of the chassis 12( Figure 1 ) of the agricultural machine 10. Optionally, according to another embodiment of the present application, the harvesting assembly 100 is mounted on a separate platform arranged to be coupled and decoupled in the front of the structure of the chassis 12( Figure 1 ) of the agricultural machine 10.

[0078] Reference is now made to Figures 10-17The first row divider device 30 is illustrated in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure. It should be appreciated that while reference is made to the first row divider device 30, the second row divider device 30 can also include any of the disclosed features. It will be further appreciated that since the first row divider device 30 is positioned on the side of the vehicle centerline and / or center portion row divider set 30 opposite the second row divider set 30, the components of the second row divider set 30 can be mirrored from those in the first row divider device 30. Moreover, in various examples, the first row divider can be turned laterally inward in a first direction, while the second row divider can be turned laterally inward in a second direction. The second turning direction can be substantially opposite the first turning direction. Figures 10-17 The first row divider device 30 is illustrated in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure. It should be appreciated that while reference is made to the first row divider device 30, the second row divider device 30 can also include any of the disclosed features. It will be further appreciated that since the first row divider device 30 is positioned on the side of the vehicle centerline and / or center portion row divider set 30 opposite the second row divider set 30, the components of the second row divider set 30 can be mirrored from those in the first row divider device 30. Moreover, in various examples, the first row divider can be turned laterally inward in a first direction, while the second row divider can be turned laterally inward in a second direction. The second turning direction can be substantially opposite the first turning direction.

[0079] As shown, in some examples, the first connecting element 112 can include one or more hinges 124 that can be operably coupled with the structural frame 102 and the first pivot frame 110. The one or more hinges 124 can define an axis of rotation for the first pivot frame 110. In the illustrated example, the one or more hinges 124 can include a first hinge 124a and a second hinge 124b. The first hinge 124a can be positioned on a first side of the structural frame 102, while the second hinge 124b can be positioned on a second side of the structural frame 102. The first hinge 124a and the second hinge 124b can be positioned on opposite sides of the structural frame 102. In some examples, the first hinge 124a and the second hinge 124b can be positioned on the same side of the structural frame 102. Figure 13 The hinge shroud 126, shown in greater detail in FIG. 12, can be positioned laterally outward of the one or more hinges 124 and at least partially cover the one or more hinges 124. As shown, the hinge shroud 126 can include a first portion 128 positioned at least partially vehicle forward of the hinge pin 130 and a second portion 132 vehicle rearward of the first portion 128.

[0080] Referring again to FIG. 1, Figures 10-17 The first connecting element 112 can additionally or alternatively include one or more support arms 134 that are hingedly coupled with the first pivot frame 110. Each support arm 134 can have any desired geometry, such as a non-linear portion. Moreover, the non-linear portion can define a slot 136 therein. A guide 138 can be positioned within the slot 136 and operably coupled with the structural frame 102. In the illustrated example, the guide 138 is configured as a fastener. However, the guide 138 can be configured as any other structure without departing from the teachings provided herein. The guide 138 can reside within the slot 136 to help guide the first pivot frame 110 between the first position and the second position, or vice versa, as the first pivot arm is rotated relative to the support frame. Once the first pivot frame 110 is placed in the first position and / or the second position, the guide 138 can be fastened to further retain the first pivot frame 110 in the defined position.

[0081] With further reference to FIG. 1, Figures 14-17In some examples, the non-linear portion of the first connection element 112 can further define one or more retention openings 140. In some cases, a retainer 142 can be positioned within the retention openings 140 to retain the first connection element 112, and thus the first pivot frame 110, in a defined position.

[0082] In certain cases, the retainer 142 can be positioned in a retainer cradle 144. The retainer cradle 144 can be operably coupled with the structural frame 102. As shown, the retainer cradle 144 can include an upper portion 146, an intermediate portion 148, and a bottom portion 150. The intermediate portion 148 can be operably coupled with the structural frame 102, which can be accomplished by one or more fasteners 152 and / or any other fastening method. The upper portion 146 and the bottom portion 150 can extend from the intermediate portion 148, each defining a retainer void 154. The retainer 142 can extend through each of the retainer voids 154 to align the retainer 142 with the retention openings 140 when the retention openings 140 are aligned with the retainer voids 154.

[0083] In several examples, a first segment 156 of the retainer 142 can be positioned through the retainer void 154, and a second segment 158 can be offset from the first segment 156. In some cases, a biasing member 160, such as a spring, can be operably coupled with the first segment 156 of the retainer 142. For example, the biasing member 160 can be positioned around the retainer 142 at a location between the upper portion 146 and the bottom portion 150 of the retainer cradle 144. The biasing member 160 can be configured to push the retainer 142 downward within a retainer slot defined by the retainer cradle 144.

[0084] In various examples, the structural frame 102 can define a retention hole 162. The second segment 158 of the retainer 142 can extend into the retention hole 162. As shown, the retention hole 162 can include a first portion 164 having a first bottom surface 166 and a second portion 168 having a second bottom surface 170. The first bottom surface 166 can be vertically offset from the second bottom surface 170 such that the second segment 158 of the retainer 142 can be selectively retained within the first portion 164 and / or the second portion 168 by the downward force provided by the biasing member 160. Due to the offset height of the first bottom surface 166 from the second bottom surface 170, when the retainer 142 is placed in the first portion 164, the retainer 142 can be positioned in an engaged position such that the retainer 142 is positioned at least partially within the slot 136 of the first connection element 112. Alternatively, the retainer 142 can be positioned in a disengaged position when placed in the second portion 168 such that the retainer 142 is positioned above the slot 136 of the first connection element 112, thereby allowing the first connection element 112 and the first pivot frame 110 to rotate.

[0085] Still referencing Figures 14-17 In various examples, the locking bracket 172 may be integrally formed with and / or laterally connected to the first pivot frame 110. Furthermore, the structural frame 102 may define a locking hole 174. In use, when the first pivot frame 110 is moved to a first open position, the gap defined by the bracket can be aligned with the locking hole 174. Once aligned, a fastener 176 can be positioned through the gap and the locking hole 174 to hold the first row divider assembly 30 in a first position. In such an example, the locking hole 174 may engage with the locking bracket 172 to hold the first pivot arm in a first position, and a retaining hole may be used to hold the first pivot arm in a second position.

[0086] Now for reference Figure 18 Based on various aspects of this subject, a method 300 for operating a harvesting assembly for agricultural machinery is shown. Generally, this document will refer to the preceding references. Figures 1-17 The method 300 is described using the agricultural machinery 10 and harvesting assembly 100. However, the disclosed method 300 can generally be used with any suitable harvesting assembly. Furthermore, although for illustrative and discussion purposes, Figure 18 The steps are described in a specific order, but the methods discussed herein are not limited to any particular order or arrangement. Those skilled in the art will understand, using the disclosure provided herein, that various steps of the methods disclosed herein may be omitted, rearranged, combined, and / or modified in various ways without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0087] like Figure 18 As shown, in (302), method 300 may include releasing a first locking element from a first connecting element. The first connecting element operatively connects a first pivoting frame of the harvesting assembly to a structural frame of the harvesting assembly. In some cases, releasing the first locking element from the first connecting element may include removing a retainer from a locking hole defined by the connecting element.

[0088] In (304), method 300 may include rotating a first pivot frame and one or more feed rollers operatively coupled to the first pivot frame from a first position to a second position. The rotation of the first pivot frame relative to the structural frame may be guided by sliding a first pivot arm and a first connecting element along a guide positioned within one or more retaining openings defined by the first connecting element, and / or by utilizing a hinge to rotate the first pivot arm and the first connecting element about a defined axis.

[0089] In (306), method 300 may include engaging a first locking element with a first connecting element to hold the first pivot frame in a second position.

[0090] At (308), the method 300 can include releasing the second locking element from the second connection element. The second connection element operably couples the second pivot frame of the harvesting assembly to the structural frame of the harvesting assembly. In some cases, the first pivot frame is laterally offset from the second pivot frame along the structural frame.

[0091] At (310), the method 300 can include pivoting the second pivot frame and one or more feed rollers operably coupled to the second pivot frame from a first position to a second position. Pivoting of the second pivot frame relative to the structural frame can be guided by sliding the second pivot arm and the second connection element along a guide positioned within the one or more retention openings defined by the second connection element and / or by pivoting the second pivot arm and the second connection element about the defined axis of rotation using a hinge.

[0092] At (312), the method 300 can include engaging the second locking element with the second connection element to retain the second pivot frame in the second position.

[0093] Reference is now made to Figures 19-25 , the harvesting assembly 100 for the agricultural machine 10 can include one or more deflector assemblies 178, which can be further illustrated in Figure 4A 、 4B , 9A and 9B. The deflector assemblies 178 can be configured to direct crops and / or other objects away from the structural frame 102, any other component of the harvesting assembly 100, the wheels 14, 16 of the machine 10, the chassis 12 of the machine 10, and / or any other component of the machine 10.

[0094] In the illustrated example, the deflector assemblies 178 include a deflector plate 180, which can be placed in a plurality of positions. For example, the deflector plate 180 can be placed in a first operational position, a second position, and / or one or more intermediate positions between the first and second positions (as illustrated in Figure 24 and 25 , in the first operational position at least a portion of the deflector plate 180 is positioned laterally outward of the structural frame 102 (as illustrated in Figure 20 and Figure 21 , in the second position at least a portion of the deflector plate 180 is positioned laterally inward of the structural frame 102 (as illustrated in Figure 22 and Figure 23 ).

[0095] It should be appreciated that while Figure 19 、 21The left deflector assembly 178 is shown in FIGS. 23 and 25, but the right deflector assembly 178 can also include any of the disclosed features. It will be further understood that because the left deflector assembly 178 is positioned on an opposite side of the vehicle centerline and / or center portion divider arrangement 30 from the right deflector assembly 178, components of the right deflector assembly 178 can mirror those of the left deflector assembly 178. Moreover, in various examples, the left deflector assembly 178 can pivot laterally inward in a first direction, while the right deflector assembly 178 can pivot laterally inward in a second direction. The second pivot direction can be generally opposite the first pivot direction.

[0096] With further reference to Figures 20-25 The deflector plate 180 can include a first section 182 that can have a first height hi in the longitudinal direction and a second section 184 that can have a second height h2in the longitudinal direction. In some cases, the first section 182 can be generally forward of the second section 184 when the deflector plate 180 is installed within the harvesting assembly 100. Moreover, the deflector plate 180 can include a main portion 186 and a base portion 188 that is offset from the main portion 186. The offset base portion 188 can provide additional bending strength to the deflector plate 180 when crops and / or various objects contact the deflector plate 180.

[0097] The deflector assembly 178 can also include a deflector hinge 190, a biasing element 192, and / or a linkage 194. The deflector hinge 190 can direct movement of the deflector plate 180 between various positions. The biasing element 192 and / or the linkage 194 can also help direct movement of the deflector plate 180 between different positions. Moreover, the biasing element 192 and / or the linkage 194 can be configured to hold the deflector plate 180 in a defined position.

[0098] In various examples, the deflector hinge 190 can be operably coupled with the first section 182 of the deflector plate 180. As shown, a first leaf 196 of the deflector hinge 190 can be operably coupled with the structural frame 102 that supports a first set of one or more knuckles. A second leaf 198 can be operably coupled to and / or integrally formed with the deflector plate 180 that supports a second set of one or more knuckles, where the first and second sets of one or more knuckles define a barrel 200 of the deflector hinge 190. A pin 202 can be positioned through the barrel 200 and define a deflector axis 204.

[0099] The biasing element 192 can be any device of variable or fixed length and includes a first end 206 and an opposing second end 208. The first end 206 can be operably coupled with the interior 210 of the deflector plate 180 and / or the base 188 of the deflector plate 180. The second end 208 can be operably coupled with the structural frame 102. As such, the biasing element 192 can be configured to help maintain the deflector plate 180 in the first position and / or the second position. In some cases, the biasing element 192 can be a component that allows for a change in length such that the biasing element 192 can retract when in contact with the deflector plate 180 and / or extend when the deflector plate 180 moves between the first position and the second position. In various examples, the biasing element 192 can include at least one of a spring, a fluid damper, a magnetic component, an electric actuator, combinations thereof, and / or any other practical component.

[0100] In the illustrated example, the biasing element 192 is configured as a fluid damper or bumper that includes a housing 212 filled with a working fluid. A movable piston assembly 214 is slidable within the housing 212. A rod 216 can be attached to the piston assembly 214 and extend outside of the damper through a sealed rod guide 218 at a first end of the housing 212. The piston assembly 214 is configured to slidingly mate with an inner surface of the housing 212 and divide the housing 212 into a first (e.g., rebound) chamber 220 definable between the rod guide 218 and the main piston assembly 214 and a second (e.g., compression) chamber 222 definable between the piston assembly 214 and a second end of the housing 212 and provide a damping force during its movement.

[0101] Further, a default position can be defined between the first chamber 220 and the second chamber 222 of the piston assembly 214. In operation, the piston can be biased to return to the default position when displaced from the default position in either direction. For example, when various objects and / or crops contact the deflector plate 180, or at any other time, the biasing element 192 can be compressed and return to the default position once the objects and / or crops are no longer in contact with the deflector plate 180. Further, the biasing element 192 can extend when positioned in one or more intermediate positions when the deflector plate 180 moves from the first position to the second position before returning to the default position. Additionally or alternatively, the length of the biasing element 192 can be a first length li in the first position and a second length l2 in the second position. In some cases, the second length l2 can be longer than the first length li to further maintain the deflector plate 180 in the second position.

[0102] The link 194 can be integrally formed with the structural frame 102 or later connected to the structural frame 102 by any workable means. In some examples, the link 194 can have a body 226 that defines a first attachment region 228 and a second attachment region 230. The first attachment region 228 can be configured to receive a fastener 232 for operably coupling the link 194 with an attachment portion 234 of the structural frame 102. The second attachment region 230 can be operably coupled with the first end portion 206 of the biasing element 192. In some cases, the body 226 can define additional attachment regions without departing from the teachings provided herein.

[0103] In various examples, the link 194 can be connected to the attachment portion 234 in the form of a cantilever. In such cases, the second attachment region 230 can be positioned behind the first attachment region 228 and / or the fastener 232 when the deflector plate 180 is in the first position. Conversely, the second attachment region 230 can be positioned in front of the first attachment region 228 and / or the fastener 232 when the deflector plate 180 is in the second position. In some cases, the link 194 can be configured to rotate about a link axis such that the first portion of the biasing element 192 is behind the link axis when the deflector plate 180 is in the first position and the first portion of the biasing member 192 is in front of the link axis when the deflector plate 180 is in the second position.

[0104] In operation, as shown in Figure 20 and 21 , when the deflector plate 180 is placed in the first operating position, the second segment 184 of the deflector plate 180 can be positioned laterally outward of the structural frame 102. As provided herein, the link 194 can be coupled to the structural frame 102 by the fastener 232. Further, the first portion of the biasing element 192 can be operably coupled with the link 194 at a location along the link 194 that is behind the fastener 232. With the deflector plate 180 in the first position, the biasing element 192 defines a first length li from the first end portion 206 to the second end portion 208 of the biasing element 192.

[0105] As shown in Figure 22 and 23As shown, at least a portion of the deflector plate 180 (e.g., the second segment 184 of the deflector plate 180) can be positioned laterally inboard of the structural frame 102 when the deflector plate 180 is placed in the second storage position. Further, the first portion of the biasing element 192 can be operably coupled with the link 194 at a location along the link 194 that is forward of the fastener 232. With the deflector plate 180 in the second position, the biasing element 192 defines a second length l2 from the first end 206 to the second end 208 of the biasing element 192. In some cases, the first length li is within ten percent of the second length l2. Additionally or alternatively, the first length li can be substantially equal to the second length l2. Additionally or alternatively, the first length li can be greater than the second length l2. Additionally or alternatively, the first length li can be less than the second length l2.

[0106] With further reference to Figure 22 and 23 As described herein, in some cases, one or more of the feed rollers 32 of the harvesting assembly 100 can be operably coupled with the pivot frames 110, 114. The pivot frames 110, 114 allow the one or more feed rollers 32 to move between the first operating position and the second storage position. In some cases, the feed rollers 32 can be configured to rotate in the first forward direction when moved from the first operating position to the second storage position. Conversely, in some cases, the deflector plate 180 can be configured to rotate in the second rearward direction when moved from the first operating position to the second storage position. In this way, the one or more feed rollers 32 can rotate in the first direction when moved from the first operating position to the second storage position, and the deflector plate 180 can rotate in the second, opposite direction when moved from the first operating position to the first storage position.

[0107] Further, as Figure 22 and Figure 23 shown, the structural frame 102 can extend laterally outboard of the row divider device 30 when the row divider device 30 is rotated to the second storage position, and the structural frame 102 can extend laterally outboard of the deflector plate 180 when the deflector plate 180 is rotated to the second storage position.

[0108] With further reference to Figure 24 and 25With the link 194 rotatable about the fastener 232, the deflector plate 180 can be placed in a plurality of intermediate positions between the first position and the second position. When in the intermediate positions, the link 194 can be rotated less than 180 degrees. Further, the biasing element 192 defines a third length l3 from the first end 206 to the second end 208 of the biasing element 192. In some cases, the third length l3 is within ten percent of the first length l1 and / or the second length l2. Additionally or alternatively, the third length l3 can be substantially equal to the first length l1 and / or the second length l2. Additionally or alternatively, the third length l3 can be greater than the first length l1 and / or the second length l2. Additionally or alternatively, the third length l3 can be less than the first length l1 and / or the second length l2.

[0109] Reference is now made to Figure 26 According to aspects of the present subject matter, a method 400 for operating a harvesting assembly of an agricultural machine is shown. Generally, the method 400 will be described herein with reference to the agricultural machine 10 and the harvesting assembly 100 described above with reference to Figures 1-17 and 19-25. However, the disclosed method 400 can generally be used with any suitable harvesting assembly. Moreover, although the steps are depicted in a particular order for illustrative and discussion purposes, Figure 26 It will be understood by those skilled in the art in light of the disclosure provided herein that the methods discussed herein are not limited to any particular order or arrangement. Using the disclosure provided herein, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the various steps of the methods disclosed herein can be omitted, rearranged, combined and / or adapted in various ways without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0110] As Figure 26 shown at (402), the method 400 can include unfastening a fastener operably coupling a link to a structural frame. As provided herein, a deflector plate can be operably coupled to the link by a biasing element. A first end of the biasing element can be operably coupled to the link and a second end of the biasing element can be operably coupled to the deflector plate.

[0111] At (404), the method 400 can include moving the link from the first position to the second position, thereby moving the deflector plate operably connected to the link from the first position to the second position. As provided herein, the movement of the link can be a rotation about a link axis. Additionally or alternatively, the movement of the link can be in any other manner and can include completely disconnecting the link from the structural frame. At (406), the method 400 can include extending the biasing element during the movement of the deflector plate from the first position to the second position.

[0112] At (408), the method 400 can include engaging the fastener operably coupling the link to the structural frame to retain the link in the second position. With the link in the second position, at least a portion of the deflector plate can be positioned inboard of the lateral direction of the structural frame at the second position.

[0113] At (410), the method 400 can include disengaging the fastener operably coupling the link to the structural frame. At (412), the method 400 can include moving the link from the second position to the first position such that the deflector plate operably coupled with the link moves outboard of the lateral direction of the structural frame. Further, at (414), the method 400 can include engaging the fastener operably coupling the link to the structural frame to retain the link in the first position.

[0114] This written description uses examples to disclose the technology, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the technology, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the technology is defined by the claims, and can include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.

Claims

1. A harvesting assembly for an agricultural machine, the assembly comprising: a structural frame; a feed roller operably coupled with the structural frame; and a deflector assembly operably coupled with the structural frame, the deflector assembly directing crop out of the harvesting assembly, the deflector assembly including a deflector plate at least partially laterally outward of the feed roller, wherein the deflector plate is rotatable relative to the structural frame between a first position and a second position, wherein the deflector assembly further includes a biasing element including a first end operably coupled with an interior of the deflector plate and a second end operably coupled with the structural frame, wherein the harvesting assembly further includes a link operably coupled with the first end of the biasing element and the structural frame, wherein the link is rotatable about a link axis, and wherein a first portion of the biasing element is rearward of the link axis when the deflector plate is in the first position and forward of the link axis when the deflector plate is in the second position.

2. The harvesting assembly of claim 1, further comprising: a deflector hinge operably coupling a first segment of the deflector plate to the structural frame, the deflector hinge defining a deflector axis. a second segment of the deflector plate positioned laterally outward of the structural frame in the first position and positioned laterally inward of the structural frame in the second position.

3. The harvesting assembly of claim 2, wherein, the biasing element includes at least one of a spring, a fluid damper, a magnetic assembly, an electric actuator, or a combination thereof.

4. The harvesting assembly of claim 1, wherein, the biasing element defines a first length from the first end to the second end when the deflector plate is in the first position and a second length from the first end to the second end when the deflector plate is in the second position, and wherein the first length is within ten percent of the second length.

5. The harvesting assembly of claim 1, wherein, the feed roller is operably coupled with a pivot frame, and wherein the feed roller is rotatable in a forward direction when moving from a first operational position to a second storage position.

6. The harvesting assembly of claim 1, wherein, the feed roller is rotatable in a first direction when moving from a first operational position to a second storage position, and wherein the deflector plate is rotatable in an opposite second direction when moving from the first operational position to the second storage position.

7. The harvesting assembly of claim 1, wherein, 8. A method for operating a harvesting assembly for an agricultural machine according to any of the preceding claims, the method comprising: disengaging a fastener operably coupling a link to a structural frame; moving the link from a first position to a second position such that a deflector plate operably coupled with the link moves from a first position to a second position; and engaging the fastener operably coupling the link to the structural frame to retain the link in the second position. ​ 9. The method of claim 8, wherein, The deflector plate is operably coupled with the link by a biasing element, and wherein a first end of the biasing element is operably coupled with the link and a second end of the biasing element is operably coupled with the deflector plate.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein, At least a portion of the deflector plate is positioned laterally inward of the structural frame in the second position.

11. The method of claim 9, further comprising: extending the biasing element during movement of the deflector plate from the first position to the second position.

12. The method of claim 11, further comprising: disengaging a fastener operably coupling the link to the structural frame; moving the link from the second position to the first position such that the deflector plate operably coupled with the link moves laterally outward from the structural frame; and engaging the fastener operably coupling the link to the structural frame to retain the link in the first position. ​

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