Harvester and working machine

Abstract

A harvester and a work machine are provided. The harvester includes a harvesting unit that harvests a standing crop while raking the standing crop. The harvesting unit includes a raking reel that rakes the standing crop. The raking reel includes left and right reel frames that are rotationally driven about rotation axes extending in a left-right direction of the machine body; a plurality of rod-shaped support members that extend in the left-right direction of the machine body and are provided so as to straddle the left and right reel frames; and a plurality of tines that are installed to the support members at intervals in the left-right direction of the machine body. The tines include a support portion that is supported by the support member; a spring portion that is located below the support member; and an action portion that is provided so as to hang from the spring portion and rake the standing crop. The harvester includes a cover member that has a fitting portion that is fitted to an outer peripheral portion of the support member and a cover portion that extends downward behind the spring portion and covers the spring portion from the rear.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the following application:

[0002] Invention Title: Working Vehicle, Harvester, and Working Machine International Application Date: April 15, 2020 International Application Number: PCT / JP2020 / 016610

[0003] National Application Number: 202080026219.2 Technical Field

[0004] This invention relates to work vehicles, harvesters, and work machines. Background Technology

[0005] [First Background Technology]

[0006] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a work vehicle in which the working device (referred to in the document as a "cutting section," "threshing section," etc.) is driven by a drive source. A transmission belt (referred to in the document as a "belt") is interposed between the drive source and the work device. This transmission belt is configured to switch between a state that transmits power from the drive source and a state that does not transmit power from the drive source via a working clutch. When the transmission belt is switched to the state that transmits power from the drive source, the working clutch is activated after the speed of the drive source decreases. This reduces transmission belt slippage during switching and protects the transmission belt.

[0007] [Second Background Technology]

[0008] Conventionally, harvesters have been described, for example, in Patent Document 2. The harvester described in Patent Document 2 has a harvesting section (referred to as "harvesting section [3]" in the document) that harvests while raking in the planted crop, and the harvesting section has a raking drum (referred to as "raking drum

[12] " in the document) for raking in the planted crop. The raking drum has: left and right drum frames (referred to as "drum frames

[19] " in the document) that are rotated about a rotation axis (referred to as "axis [X1]" in the document) that extends in the left and right direction of the machine body; rod-shaped support members (referred to as "support frame

[20] " in the document) that extend in the left and right direction of the machine body and are provided with multiple support members in a manner that spans the left and right drum frames; and multiple forks (referred to as "forks

[22] " in the document) that are installed on the support members at intervals in the left and right direction of the machine body. The fork tooth has: a support part (referred to as "mounting part

[35] " in the literature) supported on a support member; a spring part (referred to as "coil part

[33] " in the literature) located below the support member; and an action part (referred to as "action part

[32] " in the literature) set in a state of hanging down from the spring part, and performing a raking action on the planted crop.

[0009] [Third Background Technology]

[0010] In a combine harvester, which is an example of an engine-equipped work machine, conventionally, the radiator for cooling the engine is supported by a support frame formed in the shape of a square frame surrounding the outer periphery of the radiator. The support frame is fixed to the machine frame by means of bolts or the like. Referring, for example, to the work machine disclosed in Patent Document 3, a dust cover blocking the outside of the machine body is supported so that it can swing together with the engine hood. When the dust cover and the engine hood swing outward, the radiator opens in an outward-facing manner.

[0011] Existing technical documents

[0012] Patent documents

[0013] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2005-178631

[0014] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2013-110983

[0015] Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-200469 Summary of the Invention

[0016] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0017] [First technical problem]

[0018] However, as shown in Patent Document 1, in structures where the drive source speed decreases when the working clutch switches the drive belt, a time lag occurs from the moment the operator initially initiates the drive belt switching operation until the actual completion of the switch. Therefore, it is conceivable that the length of this time lag could cause discomfort to the operator. Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a work vehicle that balances drive belt protection and operator comfort.

[0019] [Second technical problem]

[0020] In the harvester described in Patent Document 2, the fork teeth rakgle the standing crop from the front. At this time, the standing crop comes into contact with the spring from the rear, and the crop easily gets tangled in the spring. In view of the above, a harvester that prevents the crop from getting tangled in the spring of the fork teeth is desired.

[0021] [Third technical problem]

[0022] In the work machine disclosed in Patent Document 3, the operator sometimes needs to remove the radiator in order to remove dust adhering to the inside of the radiator. Furthermore, in the aforementioned existing structure, when performing such radiator removal, after opening the dust cover, it is necessary to disconnect the support frame surrounding the radiator from the main frame, removing the support frame and radiator—both large components—to the outside as a single unit, making it a tedious task for the operator. Therefore, there is a desire to improve the workability when performing radiator maintenance.

[0023] Solution for solving the problem

[0024] The work vehicle of the present invention, which is used to solve the aforementioned [first technical problem], is characterized by comprising: a drive source capable of rotational drive; a work device driven by the drive source; a transmission belt capable of transmitting power from the drive source to the work device; a belt-tensioned work clutch capable of switching between a transmission state in which power is transmitted to the transmission belt and a non-transmission state in which power is not transmitted to the transmission belt; and a clutch operating unit capable of switching the work clutch between the transmission state and the non-transmission state based on a connection control signal and a disconnection control signal, wherein the connection control signal is a control signal related to the connection operation of the work clutch, and the disconnection control signal is related to the engagement / disengagement of the work clutch. The control signal related to the disconnection operation of the clutch; and the speed detection sensor, which can detect the speed of the drive source, wherein if the speed is below a preset threshold when the clutch operating unit detects the connection control signal, the clutch operating unit immediately performs a transmission switching operation to change the working clutch from the non-transmission state to the transmission state; if the speed is above the threshold when the clutch operating unit detects the connection control signal, the clutch operating unit performs a first speed control to reduce the speed of the drive source to below the threshold, and performs the transmission switching operation when the speed has become below the threshold.

[0025] According to the present invention, when the rotational speed of the drive source is below a preset threshold, the clutch operating unit immediately switches the working clutch to the transmission state, thus eliminating time lag in the operation of the working clutch and ensuring its rapid operation. Furthermore, when the rotational speed of the drive source is above the threshold, the clutch operating unit switches the working clutch to the transmission state after the rotational speed of the drive source decreases below the threshold, thus reliably reducing belt slippage. In other words, according to the present invention, by adjusting the timing of the working clutch switching operation according to the rotational speed of the drive source, a work vehicle that balances belt protection and operator comfort is achieved. It should be noted that the phrase "the rotational speed is below the preset threshold" in the present invention also includes the phrase "the rotational speed is lower than the preset threshold." Furthermore, the phrase "the rotational speed is higher than the threshold when the clutch operating unit detects the connection control signal" also includes the phrase "the rotational speed is higher than the threshold when the clutch operating unit detects the connection control signal." Furthermore, the meaning of "reducing the speed of the drive source to make the speed below the threshold" in the first speed control of the present invention also includes the meaning of "reducing the speed of the drive source to make the speed less than the threshold". In addition, the "speed of the drive source" in the present invention can be either a target speed for the drive source or the speed actually detected by the drive source.

[0026] Preferably, in this invention, when the transmission switching operation is completed after the first speed control has been performed and the speed has fallen below the threshold, the clutch operating unit performs a second speed control to increase the speed of the drive source so that the speed is higher than the threshold. Furthermore, preferably, this invention includes a throttle operating member for setting the speed, and the clutch operating unit performs the second speed control to bring the speed to the set speed of the throttle operating member.

[0027] According to this structure, even if the speed of the drive source decreases, the speed of the drive source can be automatically increased after the switching operation of the working clutch is completed. Therefore, compared with the structure in which the operator manually increases the speed of the drive source, it reduces operator fatigue and reliably ensures the operability of the working clutch. Furthermore, by increasing the speed of the drive source to the set speed of the throttle operating element after the switching operation of the working clutch is completed, operator fatigue is further reduced.

[0028] Preferably, in this invention, a first rate of change and a second rate of change are set, wherein the first rate of change is the rate of change of the rotational speed per unit time in the first speed control, and the second rate of change is the rate of change of the rotational speed per unit time in the second speed control, and the first rate of change is smaller than the second rate of change. Furthermore, preferably, in this invention, the first rate of change remains constant regardless of the rotational speed at the moment the clutch operating unit detects the connection control signal.

[0029] For example, when the drive source drives equipment other than the working device, it is conceivable that due to the driving load of the equipment applied to the drive source, the speed of the drive source would decrease rapidly with the first speed control. In this case, if the operation of the drive source and the equipment changes drastically, there is a risk of startling or causing discomfort to the operator. In this structure, since the first rate of change is smaller than the second rate of change, the change in speed when the drive source speed is decreased is slower than the change in speed when the drive source speed is increased. Therefore, even when the equipment other than the working device is driven, the operation of the drive source and the equipment will not change drastically, greatly reducing the risk of startling or causing discomfort to the operator. Furthermore, by using a structure where the first rate of change remains constant regardless of the speed of the drive source, the operation of the equipment is further stabilized.

[0030] Preferably, in this invention, a first interval time and a second interval time are set. The first interval time is the time from the completion of the first speed control to the start of the transmission switching operation, and the second interval time is the time from the completion of the transmission switching operation to the start of the second speed control. The second interval time is longer than the first interval time.

[0031] When the drive belt is first switched to the operating state, it is anticipated that it may slip or vibrate. Therefore, it is desirable to ensure sufficient time for the drive belt to adapt stably between the completion of the transmission switching operation and the commencement of the second speed control. On the other hand, from the viewpoint of the operability of the operating clutch, it is desirable to perform the clutch operating unit switching operation as quickly as possible. According to this structure, since the second interval time is longer than the first interval time, the drive belt can be fully adapted during the period of the second interval time. Thus, while protecting the drive belt, it also avoids causing discomfort to the operator due to waiting time, and the operating clutch switches to the transmission state as quickly as possible.

[0032] Preferably, the present invention includes a notification unit capable of providing notifications related to the transmission switching operation. From the moment the clutch operating unit detects the connection control signal until a preset time has elapsed since the start of the transmission switching operation, the notification unit continuously provides notifications related to the transmission switching operation.

[0033] According to this structure, the clutch operating unit notifies the operator of the status of switching the working clutch to the transmission state via a notification unit, thus allowing the operator to recognize that the clutch operating unit is in the process of switching. Therefore, even if the working clutch does not immediately switch to the transmission state when the clutch operating unit detects the engagement control signal, the operator is prevented from misinterpreting it as a malfunction.

[0034] Preferably, in this invention, the set time is set to the time before the transmission switching operation is completed, and the notification unit stops notifying when the set time has elapsed.

[0035] When the clutch operating unit detects a connection control signal, the notification unit notifies the operator of the status of the clutch operating unit's switching operation. Therefore, by omitting the notification just before the switching operation is completed, the notification from the notification unit is not continuous, reducing the potential for notifications that would be unpleasant to the operator.

[0036] The harvester of the present invention, which is used to solve the aforementioned [second technical problem], is characterized by having a harvesting section that harvests while simultaneously raking in standing crops. The harvesting section includes a raking drum for raking in the standing crops. The raking drum includes: left and right drum frames that are rotatably driven about a rotation axis extending in the left-right direction of the machine body; rod-shaped support members extending in the left-right direction of the machine body, with a plurality of support members arranged across the left and right drum frames; and a plurality of forks spaced apart in the left-right direction of the machine body, each fork including: a support portion supported on the support member; a spring portion located below the support member; and an actuating portion arranged in a hanging position from the spring portion to perform a raking action on the standing crops. The harvester also includes a cover member having: a fitting portion fitted into the outer periphery of the support member; and a cover portion extending downwards past the rear of the spring portion to cover the spring portion from the rear.

[0037] According to this structural feature, since the spring portion is covered by the cover portion from the rear, the planted crop will not come into contact with the spring portion from the rear when the fork harrow enters. Therefore, the crop is less likely to become entangled in the spring portion. Furthermore, the cover member is installed on the support member with its fitting portion engaged with the outer periphery of the support member. As a result, the cover member can be reliably installed on the support member.

[0038] Furthermore, in this invention, it is preferred that the support portion is fixed to the outer periphery of the support member by bolts, and the cover member has a portion that is provided in a manner continuous with the fitting portion and covers the head of the bolt.

[0039] According to this feature, the head of the bolt is covered by the part of the cover member that is continuous with the fitting part, so the crop is not easily wrapped around the head of the bolt.

[0040] Furthermore, in this invention, it is preferred that the fork tooth is formed to reach the spring portion from behind the support member, the fitting portion fits into the front portion of the outer periphery of the support member, and the cover portion extends downward in a state of contact with the rear portion of the fork tooth.

[0041] According to this feature, the fitting portion can cleverly fit into the outer periphery of the support member, avoiding the fork teeth that pass behind the support member. Furthermore, the cover extends downward in contact with the rear of the fork teeth. This allows the cover to be reliably supported on the rear of the fork teeth, and reduces the gap between the cover and the rear of the fork teeth, preventing any crop that might be wrapped around the spring from entering through that gap.

[0042] Furthermore, in this invention, it is preferred that the cover extends downward to a height position lower than the lower end of the spring portion, in a state of contact with the rear portion of the spring portion.

[0043] According to this feature, the cover can be reliably supported on the rear of the spring, and the gap between the cover and the rear of the spring can be reduced, effectively preventing crops that may wrap around the spring from entering through the gap. Furthermore, the portion of the cover located below the lower end of the spring can protect the spring from crops that are about to wrap around it from below.

[0044] Furthermore, in this invention, it is preferred that the cover extends downward to a height position lower than the lower end of the fitting portion, and the harvester has a support bracket that supports the lower portion of the cover located lower than the lower end of the fitting portion.

[0045] According to this feature structure, the portion of the cover member that is far from the portion (fitting portion) installed on the support member (the lower part of the cover) can be reliably supported by the support bracket.

[0046] Furthermore, in this invention, it is preferred that the support portion is fixed to the outer periphery of the support member by bolts, and the support bracket is fixed together with the support portion to the outer periphery of the support member by bolts.

[0047] Based on this structural feature, the simplification of the fixing structure can be achieved by using common bolts.

[0048] Furthermore, in this invention, it is preferred that the cover member has a first engaging portion and the support bracket has a second engaging portion, and that the support bracket is fixed to the outer periphery of the support member by the bolt when the first engaging portion and the second engaging portion are engaged.

[0049] According to this feature, the cover component can be reliably installed on the support component via the support bracket to prevent the cover component from falling off the support component.

[0050] Furthermore, in this invention, it is preferred that the support bracket has a pressing part that presses the fitting part from the opposite side of the support member when the support member is viewed in cross-section.

[0051] According to this feature structure, the fitting part can be reliably held in place by the pressing part, so as to prevent the fitting part from falling off the outer periphery of the support member.

[0052] Furthermore, in this invention, it is preferred that the cover member is an elongated member covering the plurality of fork teeth, and the lower portions of the cover member located on the left and right sides are each supported by the support bracket.

[0053] Based on this structural feature, the lower part of the cover can be well supported in a balanced manner from left to right.

[0054] Furthermore, in this invention, it is preferred that the fork tooth includes: a support portion; left and right spring portions arranged in a manner corresponding to the support portion in the left and right; and left and right actuating portions corresponding to the left and right spring portions respectively.

[0055] According to this structural feature, the support portion is shared between the left-side spring portion and the left-side actuating portion, and between the right-side spring portion and the right-side actuating portion. This reduces the number of components in the fork teeth and allows for weight reduction of the fork teeth.

[0056] Furthermore, in this invention, it is preferred that the support bracket supporting the cover is installed between the left and right spring portions on the support member.

[0057] According to this feature structure, a support bracket can be installed using the space between the left and right spring parts.

[0058] Furthermore, in this invention, it is preferred that the spring portion is located at the front and lower part of the support member, and the cover portion is tilted forward and downward along the rear part of the spring portion when viewed from the side.

[0059] According to this structural feature, the cover is inclined along the rear of the support member and the rear of the spring. This reduces the gap between the cover and the rear of the spring, preventing any crop that might become entangled in the spring from entering through this gap.

[0060] The work machine of the present invention, which is used to solve the aforementioned [third technical problem], is characterized by comprising: an engine hood that covers the engine to form an engine compartment and supports a driver's seat from below and opens laterally outward; a radiator for cooling the engine, disposed laterally outward in the engine compartment; a dust cover disposed laterally outward of the radiator, blocking the radiator's lateral outward in a manner that allows ventilation but prevents dust from passing through; a cooling fan disposed laterally inward of the radiator, which draws in external air through the dust cover to cool the radiator; a fan shroud that surrounds the periphery of the air intake space between the cooling fan and the radiator and is disposed across the cooling fan and the radiator, guiding external air from the radiator to the cooling fan; and a support frame disposed across an opening formed on the lateral outward of the dust cover and the radiator, supporting the radiator, the radiator being supported on the support frame in a manner that allows it to slide rearward along the cooling surface, and an opening for removing the radiator rearward is formed at the rear of the engine compartment.

[0061] According to the present invention, the operator can remove the radiator by sliding it rearward relative to the support frame through an opening formed at the rear of the engine compartment, and then removing the radiator outward through the opening. The operator does not need to remove the support frame; only the radiator needs to be removed. Therefore, the cumbersome work of removing both the support frame and the radiator outward is eliminated. As a result, the operability of radiator maintenance work is improved.

[0062] Preferably, in this invention, the fan shroud is configured to be divided into multiple segments in the circumferential direction.

[0063] According to this structure, when removing the fan shroud along with the radiator removal operation, the operator removes the fan shroud piece by piece. As a result, the fan shroud removal operation is easier to perform compared to the case where the entire fan shroud is formed as a single piece, and the operability of the maintenance operation is further improved.

[0064] Preferably, in this invention, a portion of the plurality of segments of the fan shroud is supported by the heat sink, while the other segments are separate from the heat sink.

[0065] According to this structure, when the fan shroud is installed on the radiator, the operator only needs to install a portion of the components on the radiator, without having to install other components on the radiator, thus enabling efficient operation.

[0066] Preferably, in this invention, the portion of the segment is supported on the heat sink in a detachable manner and can be removed rearward along the removal direction of the heat sink.

[0067] According to this structure, when removing the fan shroud, the operator divides the fan shroud into a partial section and other sections, so that the partial section is supported by the heat sink and the partial section and the heat sink are removed as a whole, thus enabling efficient operation.

[0068] Preferably, in this invention, the upper portion of the fan shroud covering the upper side of the intake space, the lower portion covering the lower side of the intake space, and the front portion of the intake space in the removal direction can be removed.

[0069] According to this structure, even if the upper part, lower part, and front part are removed rearward along the removal direction, there is no risk of interfering with the cooling fan. Therefore, the fan shroud can be removed without interfering with the cooling fan.

[0070] Preferably, the upper portion, the lower portion, and the front portion are integrally formed in this invention.

[0071] According to this structure, the operator can remove the upper part, the lower part, and the front part as a whole, thus enabling more efficient operation compared to removing them separately.

[0072] Preferably, in this invention, the longitudinal wall portion of the side of the cooling fan side covering the air intake space in the fan shroud is divided into a front longitudinal wall portion located on the front side in the extraction direction and a depth longitudinal wall portion located on the depth side in the extraction direction. The front longitudinal wall portion can be extracted rearward integrally with the upper portion, the lower portion, and the front portion. The depth longitudinal wall portion is integrally provided with the depth portion on the depth side in the extraction direction covering the air intake space.

[0073] According to this structure, when the fan shroud is removed, the operator can take out the upper part, lower part, front part, and front longitudinal wall part as a whole while the integrated depth side longitudinal wall part is separated from the depth side part, enabling efficient operation.

[0074] Preferably, in this invention, an air intake opening is formed in the longitudinal wall portion for the cooling fan to draw in air, and a peripheral wall portion protruding toward the cooling fan is formed on the outer periphery of the air intake opening. The cooling fan is configured to enter the peripheral wall portion, and the boundary between the front longitudinal wall portion and the depth longitudinal wall portion of the peripheral wall portion is connected in a way that allows for disengagement. The upper portion, the lower portion, and the front portion are supported on the heat sink.

[0075] According to this structure, the outer periphery of the intake opening is covered by the peripheral wall, thus enabling efficient intake of the cooling fan. Utilizing the peripheral wall protruding towards the cooling fan, multiple segments are connected at the boundary of the peripheral wall, making connection and disconnection easier compared to a structure where the end faces of the multiple segments are joined together. Furthermore, the upper, lower, and front portions of the fan shroud are supported by the heat sink. Therefore, the operator can remove the upper, lower, and front portions of the fan shroud along with the heat sink simply by disconnecting the connection at the boundary of the peripheral wall.

[0076] Preferably, in this invention, the support frame is formed as a square frame along the outer periphery of the radiator, and a through opening is formed in the lower frame portion and a cover is provided for opening and closing the opening.

[0077] According to this structure, dust adhering to the cooling air inlet of the radiator sometimes falls and accumulates in the lower frame after the cooling fan finishes its cooling operation. When the cover is open, the accumulated dust is discharged downwards through the opening. When the cooling fan is operating, the cooling air can be properly passed through the dust cover by blocking the opening. Attached Figure Description

[0078] Figure 1 This is a side view of the combine harvester used as a work vehicle in the first embodiment.

[0079] Figure 2 This is a top view showing the combine harvester as a working vehicle in the first embodiment.

[0080] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing the power transmission system of the combine harvester in the first embodiment.

[0081] Figure 4 This is a functional block diagram representing the switching operation and data flow of the clutch operation unit in the first embodiment.

[0082] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the clutch switching control in the first embodiment.

[0083] Figure 6This is a flowchart illustrating the clutch switching control in the first embodiment.

[0084] Figure 7 This is a time diagram showing the clutch switching control in the first embodiment.

[0085] Figure 8 This is a time diagram showing the clutch switching control in the first embodiment.

[0086] Figure 9 This is a time diagram showing the clutch switching control in the first embodiment.

[0087] Figure 10 This is a right view of the combine harvester in the second embodiment.

[0088] Figure 11 This is a top view showing the cutting section in the second embodiment.

[0089] Figure 12 This is a right view showing the rake-gathering drum in the second embodiment.

[0090] Figure 13 This is a top view showing the rake-gathering drum in the second embodiment.

[0091] Figure 14 This is a right view showing the roll frame and inner fork teeth in the second embodiment.

[0092] Figure 15 This is an exploded perspective view showing the installation structure of the inner fork tooth and the cover member in the second embodiment.

[0093] Figure 16 This is a front view showing the inner fork and cover member in the second embodiment.

[0094] Figure 17 yes Figure 16 Sectional views of XVII-XVII in the diagram.

[0095] Figure 18 yes Figure 16 The XVIII-XVIII sectional view.

[0096] Figure 19 This is an overall side view of the combine harvester in the third embodiment.

[0097] Figure 20 This is an overall top view of the combine harvester in the third embodiment.

[0098] Figure 21 This is a rear view showing the internal structure of the engine compartment in the third embodiment.

[0099] Figure 22This is a front view showing the internal structure of the engine compartment in the third embodiment.

[0100] Figure 23 This is a top view showing the internal structure of the engine compartment in the third embodiment.

[0101] Figure 24 This is a rear sectional view showing the support structure of the radiator in the third embodiment.

[0102] Figure 25 This is an exploded perspective view showing the support structure of the radiator in the third embodiment.

[0103] Figure 26 This is a cross-sectional view showing the installation state of the cover in the third embodiment.

[0104] Figure 27 This is a perspective view showing the separated structure of the fan shroud in the third embodiment.

[0105] Figure 28 This is a diagram showing the support structure of the supply pipe in the third embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0106] Below, when defining the forward and backward direction of the combine harvester's traveling body, it is defined along the direction of the machine's travel in the working state. When defining the left and right directions of the machine, it is defined according to the state observed along the machine's travel direction. That is, Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 , Figure 19 as well as Figure 20 The direction indicated by the reference numeral (F) in the attached diagram is the front of the aircraft. Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 , Figure 19 as well as Figure 20 The direction indicated by reference numeral (B) in the attached diagram is the rear of the aircraft. Figure 2 , Figure 11 as well as Figure 20 The direction indicated by the reference numeral (L) in the attached diagram is the left side of the aircraft. Figure 2 , Figure 11 as well as Figure 20 The direction indicated by the reference numeral (R) in the attached diagram is the right side of the aircraft. Therefore, the left-right direction of the aircraft corresponds to the width direction of the traveling aircraft.

[0107] [First Implementation]

[0108] The following is based on Figures 1 to 9 A first embodiment of the work vehicle of the present invention will be described. The first embodiment represents an example of the present invention for solving the above-described [first technical problem]. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The image shows a standard combine harvester for harvesting crops such as rice, wheat, and soybeans.

[0109] The lower part of the body frame 1 of the traveling machine is equipped with a pair of left and right tracked traveling devices 2.

[0110] A harvesting section 3, serving as the working device, is located at the front of the machine body. The harvesting section 3 harvests the crop and transports it to the rear. Furthermore, a threshing device 4, a grain bin 5, and a grain discharge device 6, among other working devices, are mounted on the machine frame 1. The threshing device 4 threshes the harvested stalks transported from the harvesting section 3 and sorts the threshed material into grains and discharge. The grain bin 5 stores the grains obtained by the threshing device 4. The grain discharge device 6 discharges the grains stored in the grain bin 5. The combine harvester is configured as a full-feed type, cutting the roots of the upright stalks for harvesting and feeding all the harvested stalks into the threshing device 4.

[0111] The frame 1 includes a driver's compartment 7, which is a cab-like area for the driver to sit in and operate the machine. The driver's compartment 7 is located on the right side of the front of the machine, and the grain bin 5 is located behind the driver's compartment 7. Furthermore, with the threshing device 4 on the left and the grain bin 5 on the right, the threshing device 4 and the grain bin 5 are arranged in a left-right direction. An engine 8, which is rotatably driven, is located below the driver's compartment 7. The threshing device 4 is configured to have a threshing cylinder 9 that is rotatably driven about an axis along the front-rear direction of the machine. While conveying the harvested rice stalks transported to the front of the threshing device 4 to the rear of the machine, the threshing process is performed through the threshing cylinder 9.

[0112] In the harvesting section 3, a cutting section 10 and a feeder 11 are arranged in a front-to-back configuration. The cutting section 10 is located at the front of the harvesting section 3 and cuts the standing rice stalks to be harvested, feeding the cut rice stalks laterally towards the middle of the machine body in the width direction to gather them together. The feeder 11 is connected to the rear of the cutting section 10 and transports the entire stalk of rice cut by the cutting section 10 and gathered at the middle of the machine body in the width direction of the cutting section 10 towards the rear of the threshing device 4. The harvesting section 3, including the cutting section 10 and the feeder 11, is supported by a hydraulic cylinder 12 that extends and retracts, allowing it to swing freely up and down between a rising position and a falling position around a horizontal axis P1. The hydraulic cylinder 12 is mounted across the machine body frame 1 and the feeder 11.

[0113] The harvesting section 10 is supported on a harvesting frame 13, which is constructed by connecting corner tubes, L-shaped corner pieces, etc. The harvesting section 10 includes a pair of left and right dividers 14, 14, a harrowing drum 15, a cutter 16, and a lateral feed auger 17. The left and right dividers 14, 14 are located at the foremost end of the traveling body and divide the standing rice stalks that are to be harvested into those that are not. The harrowing drum 15 is located behind and above the dividers 14 and harrows the standing rice stalks to be harvested backwards. The cutter 16, for example, is configured as a pusher type and is located behind the dividers 14, cutting the root side of the standing rice stalks to be harvested that are harrowed backwards by the harrowing drum 15. The transverse feed auger pusher 17 is located between the cutter 16 and the feeder 11, and feeds the cut rice stalks cut by the cutter 16 laterally so that they converge towards the middle side in the left and right direction and are sent out to the feeder 11 behind.

[0114] [Transmission structure of the first embodiment]

[0115] The following is a description of the transmission structure used to transmit power from engine 8 to threshing device 4, harvesting unit 3, etc. Figure 3 This is a system diagram of the transmission mechanism that transmits the driving force of engine 8 to tracked travel device 2, harvesting unit 3, threshing device 4, and grain discharge device 6 respectively. Engine 8 has an output shaft 8a. The output shaft 8a protrudes to the left and right of the machine body from the main body of engine 8. A first transmission belt 23 is wound across the pulleys of both the output shaft 8a and the windmill drive shaft 21, and a second transmission belt 24 is wound across the pulleys of both the output shaft 8a and the travel transmission shaft 22. Thus, the output shaft 8a is configured to drive both the windmill drive shaft 21 and the travel transmission shaft 22 via belts.

[0116] A belt-tensioned threshing clutch 23A is provided on the first transmission belt 23. The threshing clutch 23A applies tension to the first transmission belt 23, thereby configuring the first transmission belt 23 to transmit power. The threshing clutch 23A is equivalent to the "operating clutch" of the present invention.

[0117] The power transmitted to the travel transmission shaft 22 is then transmitted to the travel drive unit 60. Although detailed descriptions are omitted, the travel drive unit 60 is located at the lower part of the front of the machine body and includes a hydrostatic continuously variable transmission (CVT) and a gearbox. Furthermore, the travel drive unit 60 is configured to drive the left and right tracked vehicles 2, 2 at a speed suitable for driving operations based on driving operations such as a transmission control mechanism (not shown) and a slewing control mechanism provided on the driver's unit 7. The travel drive unit 60 drives the left and right tracked vehicles 2, 2 at equal or approximately equal speeds when traveling straight, and with a speed difference between the left and right tracked vehicles 2, 2 when turning.

[0118] The power transmitted from the windmill drive shaft 21 is transmitted to the primary processed material recovery unit 28 and the secondary processed material recovery unit 29 via the sorting transmission belt 25. Furthermore, the power transmitted from the windmill drive shaft 21 is transmitted to the threshing relay shaft 37 via the threshing transmission belt 30. A windmill 33 is mounted on the windmill drive shaft 21, and the windmill 33 rotates around the windmill drive shaft 21 as its axis.

[0119] A sorting drive belt 25 is wound across the windmill drive shaft 21, relay shaft 26, primary waste recovery unit 28, and secondary waste recovery unit 29. The primary waste recovery unit 28 and secondary waste recovery unit 29 are driven integrally by the sorting drive belt 25. A sorting drive belt 27 is wound across the relay shaft 26 and the oscillating sorting device 32. The power transmitted from the windmill drive shaft 21 is transmitted to the oscillating sorting device 32 via the sorting drive belt 25, relay shaft 26, and sorting drive belt 27.

[0120] A threshing drive belt 30 is wound across the windmill drive shaft 21 and the threshing relay shaft 37. A bevel gear 43a is provided at the end of the threshing relay shaft 37 opposite to the side where the threshing drive belt 30 is wound, and the bevel gear 43a engages with a bevel gear 43c of the threshing cylinder shaft 9A. The threshing cylinder shaft 9A is the rotation axis of the threshing cylinder 9 and extends in the front-rear direction; the bevel gear 43c is located at the front end of the threshing cylinder shaft 9A. Furthermore, an intermediate shaft 39 is provided in the left-right direction, across the threshing cylinder shaft 9A, opposite to the side where the threshing relay shaft 37 is located. A bevel gear 43b is provided at the left end of the intermediate shaft 39, and the bevel gear 43b engages with the bevel gear 43c. The threshing relay shaft 37 and intermediate shaft 39 are arranged on the same axis in the transverse direction of the machine body. As the threshing relay shaft 37 rotates, its rotational power is transmitted to the threshing drum shaft 9A and the intermediate shaft 39 via bevel gears 43a, 43b, and 43c, respectively. The intermediate shaft 39 rotates in the opposite direction to the rotation of the threshing relay shaft 37. The threshing relay shaft 37, the threshing drum shaft 9A, and the intermediate shaft 39 are all covered by axle boxes 36. The left end of the threshing relay shaft 37 protrudes to the left of the machine body beyond the axle box 36, and the right end of the intermediate shaft 39 protrudes to the right of the machine body beyond the axle box 36.

[0121] The power transmission configuration of the threshing relay shaft 37 is such that it can transmit power to the cutting input shaft 42 via the cutting drive belt 40. The cutting drive belt 40 is arranged to extend forward from the threshing relay shaft 37. Furthermore, the power transmission configuration of the intermediate shaft 39 is such that it can transmit power to the cutting input shaft 42 via the cutting drive belt 41. The cutting drive belt 41 is located on the opposite side of the side where the cutting drive belt 40 is located, across the feeder 11 in the left-right direction.

[0122] The cutting input shaft 42 functions as the drive shaft of the feeder 11, and is positioned to protrude outward to the left from the transport box of the feeder 11. Cutting drive belts 40 and 41 are wound around the left and right ends of the cutting input shaft 42, respectively. A sprocket is installed in the cutting input shaft 42 at a position closer to the inside of the feeder 11, and the cutting input shaft 42 and the feeder transport chain 11A rotate together via this sprocket.

[0123] A belt-tensioned cutting clutch 40A is provided on the cutting drive belt 40, which applies tension to the cutting drive belt 40, thereby enabling the cutting drive belt 40 to transmit power. A belt-tensioned cutting clutch 41A is provided on the cutting drive belt 41, which applies tension to the cutting drive belt 41, thereby enabling the cutting drive belt 41 to transmit power. The individual cutting clutches 40A and 41A are not configured to simultaneously apply tension to each of the cutting drive belts 40 and 41; either cutting clutch 40A or 41A applies tension to either of the cutting drive belts 40 and 41. When the cutting clutch 40A applies tension to the cutting drive belt 40, the cutting section 10 and the feeder 11 rotate in a manner that transports the cut straw towards the rear of the machine body. When the cutting clutch 41A applies tension to the cutting drive belt 41, the cutting section 10 and the feeder 11 reverse, for example, in the case that the feeder 11 is blocked by the cutting straw, causing the cutting straw to return to the front of the machine body.

[0124] The power transmitted from the cutting input shaft 42 is transmitted to the cutting relay shaft 45 via a cutting drive belt 44 extending forward and backward along the outer side of the right side of the feeder 11. The power transmitted from the cutting relay shaft 45 is transmitted to the transverse feed auger pusher 17 via a chain 46, and to the cutter 16 via a reciprocating rotating rod 47. The reciprocating rotating rod 47 is configured to cause the cutter 16 to slide back and forth by reciprocating rotation at a predetermined angle. Furthermore, the power transmitted from the cutting relay shaft 45 is transmitted to the rake drum 15 via chains 46 and 48 and a belt 49.

[0125] A pulley, wound around a discharge drive belt 50, is provided at the end of the output shaft 8a opposite to the sides containing the first drive belt 23 and the second drive belt 24. The discharge drive belt 50 is wound across the output shaft 8a and the discharge input shaft 51. A belt-tensioned discharge clutch 50A is provided on the discharge drive belt 50, which applies tension to the discharge drive belt 50, thereby configuring the discharge drive belt 50 to transmit power from the engine 8 to the discharge input shaft 51. When the discharge clutch 50A applies tension to the discharge drive belt 50, the discharge screw 6A inside the grain discharge device 6 rotates via the discharge input shaft 51, and the grains stored in the grain bin 5 are discharged to the outside of the machine via the grain discharge device 6. Thus, the working device of the present invention is driven by the engine 8 as a drive source.

[0126] [Clutch of the first embodiment]

[0127] Based on Figure 3 As described, the clutches that transmit power to the drive belts include a threshing clutch 23A, cutting clutches 40A and 41A, and a discharge clutch 50A. These clutches are located within the aforementioned power transmission system. The threshing clutch 23A is arranged adjacent to the first drive belt 23. The cutting clutch 40A is arranged adjacent to the cutting drive belt 40, and the cutting clutch 41A is arranged adjacent to the cutting drive belt 41. The discharge clutch 50A is arranged adjacent to the discharge drive belt 50. These clutches are belt tensioning devices capable of engaging with each adjacent drive belt, and are configured to switch between a transmission state and a non-transmission state. It should be noted that in the first embodiment, the "transmission state" refers to the state in which the clutches transmit power to each adjacent drive belt, and the "non-transmission state" refers to the state in which the clutches do not transmit power to each adjacent drive belt. These clutches are configured to be able to... Figure 4 The first clutch operating unit 52A and the second clutch operating unit 52B shown are in operation.

[0128] Although not shown, the threshing clutch 23A and the first clutch operating unit 52A are connected by an operating cable. The first clutch operating unit 52A is configured to switch the threshing clutch 23A to a transmission state by tensioning the operating cable. Although not shown, the threshing clutch 23A is equipped with a spring that applies force to the threshing clutch 23A in a direction away from the first drive belt 23. Therefore, if the first clutch operating unit 52A does not tension the operating cable of the threshing clutch 23A, the threshing clutch 23A remains in a non-transmission state.

[0129] Although not shown, the take-up clutch 40A and the second clutch operating unit 52B are connected via an operating line. The second clutch operating unit 52B is configured to switch the take-up clutch 40A to a transmission state by tensioning the operating line. The take-up clutch 41A and the second clutch operating unit 52B are connected via an operating line. The second clutch operating unit 52B is configured to switch the take-up clutch 41A to a transmission state by tensioning the operating line. The discharge clutch 50A and the second clutch operating unit 52B are connected via an operating line. The second clutch operating unit 52B is configured to switch the discharge clutch 50A to a transmission state by tensioning the operating line. The second clutch operating unit 52B is configured to independently switch the take-up clutches 40A, 41A, and discharge clutch 50A to a transmission state and a non-transmission state, respectively.

[0130] Although not shown in the diagram, the threshing clutch 23A, the cutting clutches 40A and 41A, and the discharge clutch 50A are each equipped with springs that apply force to these clutches in a direction away from their respective adjacent belts. Therefore, if the second clutch operating unit 52B does not tension the operating lines of the cutting clutches 40A, 41A, and the discharge clutch 50A, the cutting clutches 40A, 41A, and the discharge clutch 50A remain in a non-transmitting state.

[0131] [Transmission switching operation performed by the clutch operating unit in the first embodiment]

[0132] like Figure 4 As shown, the clutch operating unit 52 includes a first clutch operating unit 52A and a second clutch operating unit 52B. The first clutch operating unit 52A and the threshing clutch 23A are interconnected via an operating line. Although not shown, the first clutch operating unit 52A has an electric motor through which the operating line spanning the first clutch operating unit 52A and the threshing clutch 23A is tensioned or relaxed.

[0133] The second clutch operating unit 52B and the disengaging clutch 40A are interconnected via operating lines. The second clutch operating unit 52B and the disengaging clutch 41A are interconnected via operating lines. The second clutch operating unit 52B and the disengaging clutch 50A are interconnected via operating lines. That is, the second clutch operating unit 52B is connected to three operating lines: an operating line connected to the disengaging clutch 40A, an operating line connected to the disengaging clutch 41A, and an operating line connected to the disengaging clutch 50A. Although not shown, the second clutch operating unit 52B has an electric motor, through which these three operating lines are tensioned or relaxed.

[0134] The second clutch operating unit 52B is configured such that, with the operation of the electric motor of the second clutch operating unit 52B, the three operating cables are individually tensioned or relaxed. For example, between each of the three operating cables and the electric motor, there are three cam mechanisms corresponding to the three operating cables, each cam mechanism being formed into its own shape corresponding to the three operating cables. Furthermore, with the operation of the electric motor, each cam mechanism rotates, thereby individually tensioning or relaxing the three operating cables. It should be noted that it can also be configured such that, with the operation of the electric motor of the second clutch operating unit 52B, the three operating cables are simultaneously tensioned or relaxed.

[0135] In addition to the first clutch operating unit 52A and the second clutch operating unit 52B, the clutch operating unit 52 also includes an ECU (Electronic Control Unit), a memory (such as DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) or EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory)), relay circuits, and various input / output devices. In other words, the clutch operating unit 52 can also be configured as an electronic control unit, and the electric motors of the first clutch operating unit 52A and the second clutch operating unit 52B are controlled by this electronic control unit.

[0136] Operating switch 54 is located in driver's compartment 7 (see reference). Figure 1 The clutch control unit 52 controls the electric motors of the first clutch control unit 52A and the second clutch control unit 52B based on the control signal from the operating switch 54. In other words, the electric motors of the first clutch control unit 52A and the second clutch control unit 52B are each configured to operate based on the control signal from the operating switch 54, thus tensioning or slackening the aforementioned operating cables.

[0137] The control signals include a connection control signal and a disconnection control signal. That is, the clutch operating unit 52 is configured to detect both the connection and disconnection control signals from the operating switch 54. The connection control signal is a control signal related to the engagement operation of the clutch; when the electric motor is controlled to rotate in a tensioned operating line based on the connection control signal, the clutch switches from a non-transmission state to a transmission state. Similarly, the disconnection control signal is a control signal related to the disengagement operation of the clutch; when the electric motor is controlled to rotate in a slack operating line based on the disconnection control signal, the clutch switches from a transmission state to a non-transmission state.

[0138] Thus, the first clutch operating unit 52A can switch the threshing clutch 23A to a transmission state and a non-transmission state based on a connection control signal, which is a control signal related to the engagement operation of the threshing clutch 23A, and a disengagement control signal, which is a control signal related to the disengagement operation of the threshing clutch 23A. Furthermore, the second clutch operating unit 52B can switch each of these clutches to a transmission state and a non-transmission state based on a connection control signal, which is a control signal related to the engagement operation of the cutting clutches 40A, 41A, and the discharge clutch 50A, and a disengagement control signal, which is a control signal related to the disengagement operation of the clutch. In other words, the clutch operating unit 52 can switch the clutch operation to a transmission state and a non-transmission state based on a connection control signal and a disengagement control signal, where the connection control signal is a control signal related to the engagement operation of the clutch, and the disengagement control signal is a control signal related to the disengagement operation of the clutch.

[0139] based on Figure 3 As mentioned above, Figure 3 The various drive belts shown are driven to rotate by the power of the engine 8, and therefore their rotational speed is proportional to the rotational speed of the engine 8. Hereinafter, the rotational speed of the engine 8, which serves as the driving source, will be referred to as "engine speed R". Engine speed R includes the meaning of "target speed for engine 8". Furthermore, engine speed R may also include the meaning of "actual speed of engine 8".

[0140] When the belt-tensioned clutch switches from a non-transmission state to a transmission state at a high engine speed R, the drive belt adjacent to the clutch suddenly begins to rotate at high speed. In this case, the drive belt is subjected to a sudden load, causing impact, vibration, slippage, etc., which may shorten the life of the drive belt. In particular, the first drive belt 23 transmits power to the working device, including the harvesting section 3 and the threshing device 4, so the first drive belt 23 is easily subjected to a large load. Therefore, when the clutch switches from a non-transmission state to a transmission state, it is desirable for the engine speed R to be low. Therefore, the clutch operating unit 52 in the first embodiment is configured to adjust the engine speed R when switching the clutch from a non-transmission state to a transmission state. It should be noted that, hereafter, the operation of the clutch operating unit 52 switching the clutch from a non-transmission state to a transmission state is referred to as a "transmission switching operation".

[0141] The clutch operating unit 52 is configured to receive a set speed from the throttle operating member 53 and to receive the actual speed of the engine 8 from the speed detection sensor 55. The throttle operating member 53 is, for example, a dial switch type or a lever type operating member, configured to set the target speed of the engine 8 based on the amount of operation of the throttle operating member 53. The speed detection sensor 55 is, for example, a rotation detector mounted on the engine 8.

[0142] The clutch operating unit 52 is configured to output an indication signal to the engine control unit 56 based on the amount of operation of the throttle operating element 53. The engine control unit 56 is configured to perform various controls on the engine 8, and the actual speed of the engine 8 is adjusted by the engine control unit 56 based on the indication signal from the clutch operating unit 52. The actual speed of the engine 8 is detected by a speed detection sensor 55, and the detected speed is transmitted periodically (e.g., every 0.1 seconds) from the speed detection sensor 55 to the clutch operating unit 52 as a detection signal.

[0143] The clutch operating unit 52 is configured to output a notification signal to the notification unit 57. When the clutch operating unit 52 performs a clutch transmission switching operation, the notification signal is output from the clutch operating unit 52 to the notification unit 57. The notification unit 57 may be, for example, a monitor, buzzer, or indicator light located in the driver's unit 7, and is configured to provide notifications related to the transmission switching operation. The passenger in the driver's unit 7 can recognize the clutch switching from a non-transmission state to a transmission state through the notification from the notification unit 57. It should be noted that the notification unit 57 may also be a terminal (e.g., a smartphone or laptop computer) assembled in the driver's unit 7 or carried by a worker in a field.

[0144] based on Figures 4 to 6 The switching control of the clutch by the clutch operating unit 52 is explained. Figure 5 and Figure 6 In the diagram, a flowchart is used to represent the control of the first clutch operating unit 52A switching the threshing clutch 23A from a non-transmission state to a transmission state. Figure 5 The "start" in this context refers to the timing at which the clutch operating unit 52 detects the engagement control signal. Clutch switching control begins from this timing, initially initiating notification processing (step #01). Notification processing involves the clutch operating unit 52 outputting a notification signal to the notification unit 57, and the start of clutch switching control is communicated to the passenger in the driver's compartment 7 via the notification unit 57. This notification processing continues until the clutch switching control processing reaches step #17, described later.

[0145] After the notification process begins, it is determined whether the engine speed R is higher than a preset threshold RL (step #02). The threshold RL is, for example, pre-stored in the memory of the clutch operation unit 52. Then, the engine speed R is compared with the threshold RL. It should be noted that the threshold RL can have any hysteresis range, and the determination based on the comparison between the engine speed R and the threshold RL becomes stable by the hysteresis range. If the engine speed R is below the threshold RL (or less than the threshold RL) (step #02: No), the clutch switching control proceeds to step #11, which will be described later.

[0146] When the engine speed R is higher than the threshold RL (step #02: Yes), the speed control flag FL is set to "on" (step #03). The speed control flag FL is a variable used in the processing of the ECU of the clutch operating unit 52 and is used in the second speed control described later. After the speed control flag FL is set to "on", the first speed control is performed (step #04). "First speed control" refers to the control of reducing the engine speed R so that the engine speed R becomes below (or less than) the threshold RL. In the first speed control, the indication signal for reducing the engine speed R is transmitted from the clutch operating unit 52 to the engine control unit 56, and the engine control unit 56 controls the engine 8 so that the actual speed of the engine 8 becomes below (or less than) the threshold RL. The engine speed R changes over time, and the determination of whether the engine speed R is higher than the threshold RL is periodically repeated (step #05). When the engine speed R is below (or less than) the threshold RL (step #05: No), the first speed control of the engine speed R ends, and the clutch switching control proceeds to step #11 described later.

[0147] In step #11, it is determined whether the speed control flag FL is set to "on". If the speed control flag FL is determined to be "on" (step #11: yes), since this timing is the timing after the first speed control has been performed, it is conceivable that the torque of the engine 8 may be unstable. In this state, for example, when the threshing clutch 23A is switched, it is conceivable that the output of the engine 8 may become unstable at this timing. To avoid such an undesirable situation, the waiting process shown in steps #12 to #14 is performed. It should be noted that if the speed control flag FL is "off" (step #11: no), the clutch switching control proceeds to step #15, which will be described later.

[0148] In step #12, the first waiting timer Tw1 begins timing, and the determination in step #13 is repeated until the first waiting timer Tw1 completes timing. The first waiting timer Tw1 is a timing variable used in the processing of the ECU of the clutch operating unit 52. The time from the start of timing by the first waiting timer Tw1 in step #12 to the completion of timing by the first waiting timer Tw1 in step #13 is called the "first interval time". The first interval time is the time from the completion of the first speed control to the start of the transmission switching operation, and is set as a waiting time for the actual speed change in the engine 8 to converge and the torque of the engine 8 to stabilize after the first speed control is performed. In addition, the first interval time is stored in the memory of the clutch operating unit 52 and is a value that can be changed appropriately. Of course, the first interval time can also be a zero value. In this case, the first waiting timer Tw1 immediately completes timing (step #13: Yes), and no waiting time is generated. When the first waiting timer Tw1 completes timing (step #13: Yes), the timing state of the first waiting timer Tw1 is reset (step #14).

[0149] In step #15, the notification timer Tn is started. The notification timer Tn is a timing variable used in the processing of the ECU of the clutch operating unit 52 to set the end timing of the notification process starting from step #01. After the notification timer Tn starts timing, the transmission switching operation of the threshing clutch 23A begins (step #16). It should be noted that the start of the notification timer Tn in step #15 and the start of the transmission switching operation of the threshing clutch 23A in step #16 can occur simultaneously.

[0150] In the first embodiment, the notification processing of the notification unit 57 ends before the transfer switching operation of the threshing clutch 23A is completed. Therefore, after the transfer switching operation of the threshing clutch 23A begins, it is determined whether the notification timer Tn has finished timing (step #17). The completion timing of the notification timer Tn is set to a time shorter than the time required for the transfer switching operation of the threshing clutch 23A. Furthermore, the completion timing of the notification timer Tn is stored in the memory of the clutch operation unit 52 and is a value that can be appropriately changed.

[0151] When the notification timer Tn completes its countdown (step #17: Yes), the notification processing of the notification unit 57 ends (step #18), and the timing state of the notification timer Tn is reset (step #19). Then, it is determined whether the transmission switching operation of the threshing clutch 23A has been completed (step #20), and steps #17 to #20 are repeated until the transmission switching operation of the threshing clutch 23A is completed. During this period, the operating line spanning the threshing clutch 23A and the first clutch operating unit 52A is tensioned by the action of the electric motor of the first clutch operating unit 52A, and the threshing clutch 23A switches from the non-transmission state to the transmission state. It should be noted that if a "Yes" determination is made in step #17 and steps #18 and #19 are performed, and steps #17 to #20 are repeated, the notification timer Tn is not in the timing state, so step #17 must be determined as "No". Furthermore, although not shown in the flowchart, when the transmission switching operation is completed (step #20: Yes) and the notification timer Tn is in time, the notification processing of the notification unit 57 ends and the timing state of the notification timer Tn is reset.

[0152] When the transmission switching operation of the threshing clutch 23A is completed (step #20: Yes), it is determined whether the speed control flag FL has been set to "on" (step #21). If the speed control flag FL is "off" (step #21: No), the clutch switching control ends. If the speed control flag FL is "on" (step #21: Yes), a second speed control is performed in the processing of steps #23 to #27. The "second speed control" refers to the following control: when the transmission switching operation is completed with the engine speed R below (or less than) the threshold RL due to the first speed control, the engine speed R is increased to make the engine speed R higher than the threshold RL. Through this second speed control, the engine speed R is restored.

[0153] After the speed control flag FL is reset in step #22, the second waiting timer Tw2 begins timing (step #23), and the judgment in step #24 is repeated until the second waiting timer Tw2 completes timing. The second waiting timer Tw2 is a timing variable used in the processing of the ECU of the clutch operating unit 52. The time from the start of timing by the second waiting timer Tw2 in step #23 to the completion of timing by the second waiting timer Tw2 in step #24 is called the "second interval time". The second interval time is the time from the completion of the transmission switching operation to the start of the second speed control, and is set as a waiting time to allow the impact and vibration applied to the first drive belt 23 to converge and stabilize the rotational state of the first drive belt 23. In addition, the second interval time is stored in the memory of the clutch operating unit 52 and is a value that can be changed appropriately. Of course, the second interval time can also be a zero value. In this case, the second waiting timer Tw2 immediately completes timing (step #24: Yes), and no waiting time is generated. When the second waiting timer Tw2 completes timing (step #24: Yes), the timing state of the second waiting timer Tw2 is reset (step #25).

[0154] It should be noted that the timing of the first wait timer Tw1, the second wait timer Tw2, and the notification timer Tn can each be configured to increment from zero to the completion time. Furthermore, the timing of the first wait timer Tw1, the second wait timer Tw2, and the notification timer Tn can also be configured to decrement from the completion time to zero. The completion time of the first wait timer Tw1, the second wait timer Tw2, and the notification timer Tn can be set individually.

[0155] In step #26, the second speed control begins, and the determination in step #27 is repeated until the second speed control is deemed complete. During this period, the engine speed R changes over time, and the engine speed R and the set speed of the throttle operating element 53 are periodically compared. In the second speed control, an indication signal to increase the engine speed R is transmitted from the clutch operating unit 52 to the engine control unit 56, which controls the engine 8 to make the actual speed of the engine 8 reach the set speed of the throttle operating element 53. When the engine speed R reaches the set speed of the throttle operating element 53, the second speed control is deemed complete (step #27: Yes), and the clutch switching control ends.

[0156] exist Figures 7 to 9 In the middle, engine speed R, threshing clutch 23A (refer to...) Figure 4 Status notification department 57 (see below) Figure 4 The notification processing (hereinafter the same) is shown in sequence diagrams over time. Figures 7 to 9In the diagram, the non-transmission state and transmission state of the threshing clutch 23A are represented by horizontal lines, while the state during the transmission switching operation of the threshing clutch 23A is represented by slanted lines.

[0157] Figure 7 The diagram shows the clutch operation unit 52 when the engine speed R is always below the threshold RL (reference). Figure 4 (The same below) refers to the transmission and switching operations.

[0158] exist Figure 7 In the example shown, based on Figure 5 The flowchart shown indicates that a "No" determination is made in step #02. Then, since the speed control flag FL is not set to "On", a "No" determination is made in step #11, and also in step #21. Therefore, the processing of step #01, step #15, and step #16 are performed approximately simultaneously. Therefore, the timing of the start of the transmission switching operation of the threshing clutch 23A and the timing of the start of the notification processing of the notification unit 57 are approximately simultaneous.

[0159] exist Figure 7 In the process, the timing of the transition from the non-transmission state to the transmission state of the threshing clutch 23A is the timing of the detection of the connection control signal. Figure 5 The processing of step #01 shown is... Figure 6 The processing of steps #15 and #16 shown is performed approximately simultaneously with the detection timing of the connection control signal. Thus, when the clutch operation unit 52 detects the connection control signal and the engine speed R is below a preset threshold RL (or lower than the threshold RL), the clutch operation unit 52 immediately performs a transmission switching operation on the threshing clutch 23A.

[0160] Figure 8 The diagram illustrates the case where the clutch operating unit 52 performs a transmission switching operation when the engine speed R is R1, which is higher than the threshold speed RL. In this case, the throttle operating member 53 (see reference) Figure 4 The set speed (hereinafter the same) is set to R1. In addition, Figure 9 The diagram illustrates a case where the clutch operating unit 52 performs a transmission switching operation when the engine speed R is R2, which is higher than the threshold RL. In this case, the set speed of the throttle operating member 53 is set to R2, which is a speed lower than R1.

[0161] exist Figure 8 and Figure 9 In the examples shown, the control signal is activated at the timing when the clutch operating unit 52 detects the connection control signal. Figure 5 The processing of steps #01 to #04 in the process. Figure 8In the example shown, the first speed control is performed during time Td1. Figure 9 In the example shown, the first speed control is performed during time Td2. Thus, when the clutch operating unit 52 detects the connection control signal and the engine speed R is higher than the threshold RL, the clutch operating unit 52 performs the first speed control, and when the engine speed R becomes lower than the threshold RL, the threshing clutch 23A is switched.

[0162] exist Figure 8 In the first speed control shown, during time Td1, the engine speed R decreases from R1 to a threshold RL. When the rate of change of engine speed R per unit time in the first speed control is defined as the first rate of change Rd, in Figure 8 In the example shown, the first rate of change Rd is calculated according to the following formula.

[0163] Rd=(R1-RL) / Td1

[0164] In addition, Figure 9 In the first speed control shown, during time Td2, the engine speed R decreases from R2 to the threshold RL. Figure 9 In the example shown, the first rate of change Rd mentioned above is calculated according to the following formula.

[0165] Rd=(R2-RL) / Td2

[0166] The first rate of change Rd is determined by Figure 8 and Figure 9 The slope of the curve representing the engine speed R is indicated. Figure 9 The dashed line representing the curve at engine speed R is shown by... Figure 8 The curves representing engine speed R are obtained by overlapping the solid lines of the curves. For example... Figure 9 As shown, the slope of the curve of engine speed R when it decreases from R1 to the threshold RL (dashed line) is the same as the slope of the curve of engine speed R when it decreases from R2 to the threshold RL (solid line). Therefore, as shown in the following equation, the first rate of change Rd remains constant regardless of the engine speed R at the moment the clutch operating unit 52 detects the connection control signal.

[0167] Rd=(R1-RL) / Td1=(R2-RL) / Td2

[0168] exist Figure 8 and Figure 9 In the examples shown, all are based on the completion of the first speed control. Figure 6 The processes shown in steps #12 and #13 involve timing the first waiting timer Tw1, with the first interval time determined by... Figure 8 and Figure 9 The "Tw1" indicates this. After the first interval, based on Figure 6 The process shown in step #16 initiates the transmission switching operation of the threshing clutch 23A. After the transmission switching operation is completed, the second waiting timer Tw2 is started based on the processes in steps #23 and #24. The second interval time is determined by... Figure 8 and Figure 9 The “Tw2” indicates this.

[0169] After the second interval, Figure 8 and Figure 9 The examples shown are all based on Figure 6 The processing in step #26 performs the second speed control. Figure 8 In the example shown, the second speed control is performed during time Ta1. Figure 9 In the example shown, the second speed control is performed during time Ta2.

[0170] exist Figure 8 In the second speed control shown, during time Ta1, the engine speed R increases from the threshold RL to R1. When the rate of change of engine speed R per unit time in the second speed control is defined as the second rate of change Ru, in Figure 8 In the example shown, the second rate of change Ru is calculated according to the following formula.

[0171] Ru = (R1 - RL) / Ta1

[0172] In addition, Figure 9 In the second speed control shown, during time Ta2, the engine speed R increases from the threshold RL to R2. Figure 9 In the example shown, the second rate of change Ru is calculated according to the following formula.

[0173] Ru = (R² - RL) / Ta²

[0174] The second rate of change Ru is... Figure 8 and Figure 9 The slope of the curve representing the engine speed R is indicated. Furthermore, as shown in the following equation, the second rate of change Ru is constant.

[0175] Ru=(R1-RL) / Ta1=(R2-RL) / Ta2

[0176] It should be noted that the second rate of change Ru may not be constant. For example, the second rate of change Ru may also vary in accordance with the set speed of the throttle control component 53.

[0177] In the first embodiment, the first rate of change Rd is set to be smaller than the second rate of change Ru. In other words, time Td1 is set to be longer than time Ta1, and time Td2 is set to be longer than time Ta2. When the tracked travel device 2 is in operation during the first speed control, it is conceivable that the actual speed of the engine 8 will decrease rapidly due to the driving load of the tracked travel device 2. In such a case, there is a risk that the operator may be startled or feel uncomfortable due to the sudden deceleration of the tracked travel device 2. According to this structure, the engine speed R is gradually reduced based on the first rate of change Rd, so the tracked travel device 2 decelerates gradually without sudden deceleration. Therefore, the risk of the operator being startled or feeling uncomfortable during the first speed control is greatly reduced.

[0178] The first interval is the time to wait for engine 8 (refer to) immediately after the first speed control is completed. Figure 3 The second interval is the time it takes for the output to stabilize (hereinafter the same) and the second interval is the time it takes for the transmission switching operation to be completed before applying the first transmission belt 23 (refer to) Figure 4 The time for the convergence of impact and vibration (hereinafter the same) is as described above. As the engine speed R gradually decreases during the first speed control, the output of the engine 8 stabilizes more quickly and rapidly immediately after the first speed control is completed compared to the situation where the impact and vibration of the first transmission belt 23 converges after the transmission switching operation is completed. Therefore, in the first embodiment, Figure 8 and Figure 9 The first interval time shown by "Tw1" is set to be greater than... Figure 8 and Figure 9 The second interval, indicated by "Tw2," is short. In other words, Figure 8 and Figure 9 The second interval time shown by "Tw2" is set to be greater than... Figure 8 and Figure 9 The first interval time indicated by "Tw1" is long. The second interval time is set to, for example, 0.7 seconds. The first interval time is set to, for example, 0 to 0.3 seconds, and can be zero.

[0179] The timer Tn is set to keep track of the time. Figures 7 to 9 The interval "Tn" indicates that the notification processing switches from "on" to "off" at the exact time the notification timer Tn finishes counting. The set time for the notification timer Tn is a preset time starting from the start of the transmission switching operation of the threshing clutch 23A. That is, as... Figures 7 to 9 As shown, the notification unit 57 continuously sends notifications related to the transmission switching operation at the moment when the clutch operation unit 52 detects the connection control signal and at the moment when a preset time has elapsed since the start of the transmission switching operation.

[0180] When the notification process switches from "on" to "off," the transmission switching operation of the threshing clutch 23A has not yet been completed. That is, the notification timer Tn is set to the time before the transmission switching operation is completed. For example, if the time required from the start to completion of the transmission switching operation is 1.3 seconds, the notification timer Tn is set to 1 second. Then, when the notification timer Tn has elapsed for the set time, the notification unit 57 stops notifying. Therefore, the notification from the notification unit 57 does not continue indefinitely, reducing the potential for operator discomfort from the notification.

[0181] [Other embodiments of the first embodiment]

[0182] The present invention is not limited to the structure illustrated in the first embodiment described above. Hereinafter, other representative embodiments of the present invention are illustrated.

[0183] (1-1) In the first embodiment described above, an example is shown of a structure in which the clutch operating unit 52 performs a transmission switching operation on the threshing clutch 23A. However, the "working clutch" of the present invention can also be the cutting clutch 40A, 41A, or the discharge clutch 50A. When the cutting clutch 40A is the "working clutch" of the present invention, the "drive belt" of the present invention is the cutting drive belt 40. Furthermore, when the cutting clutch 41A is the "working clutch" of the present invention, the "drive belt" of the present invention is the cutting drive belt 41. Furthermore, when the discharge clutch 50A is the "working clutch" of the present invention, the "drive belt" of the present invention is the discharge drive belt 50.

[0184] (1-2) In the first embodiment described above, when the transmission switching operation is completed by performing the first speed control and the engine speed R becomes below the threshold RL, the clutch operating unit 52 performs the second speed control, but this is not limited to the first embodiment. For example, the clutch operating unit 52 may also be configured to select and set not to perform the second speed control.

[0185] (1-3) In the first embodiment described above, the clutch operating unit 52 performs second speed control to make the engine speed R reach the set speed of the throttle operating member 53, but it is not limited to this first embodiment. For example, it can also be configured such that: Figure 6In step #03, while the speed control flag FL is set to "on", the timing engine speed R is stored in the memory of the clutch operation unit 52. Alternatively, in the second speed control, the engine control unit 56 controls the engine 8 to achieve the actual engine speed R stored in step #03. Furthermore, in step #27, when the engine speed R reaches the engine speed R stored in step #03, the second speed control is considered complete, and the clutch switching control ends.

[0186] (1-4) In the first embodiment described above, in the first speed control, the engine speed R decreases proportionally to time based on the first rate of change Rd, but this is not limited to the first embodiment. For example, it can also be configured such that in the first speed control, the engine speed R decreases in an S-curve shape through control based on a known minimum acceleration model, etc. Furthermore, it can also be configured such that in the second speed control, the engine speed increases in an S-curve shape through control based on a known minimum acceleration model, etc.

[0187] (1-5) In the first embodiment described above, a first interval time is provided as the time from the completion of the first speed control to the start of the transmission switching operation, but it can also be configured not to set the first interval time.

[0188] (1-6) In the first embodiment described above, the notification unit 57 sends notifications related to the transmission switching operation from the moment the clutch operation unit 52 detects the connection control signal until the moment before the transmission switching operation is completed, but this is not limited to the first embodiment. For example, it can be configured to set the time to be counted by the notification timer Tn to the moment after the transmission switching operation is completed. Furthermore, it can be configured to send some kind of notification after the notification timer Tn has finished counting.

[0189] (1-7) In the first embodiment described above, the second interval time is the timing time of the second waiting timer Tw2, which is the time from the completion of the transfer switching operation to the start of the second speed control, but it is not limited to this first embodiment. Alternatively, for example, the timing time of the second waiting timer Tw2 can be set to the time from the start of the transfer switching operation to the start of the second speed control. In this case, the timing time of the second waiting timer Tw2 can be set to be longer than the time required for the transfer switching operation. Of course, it is also possible that the timing time of the second waiting timer Tw2 is set to be longer than the timing time of the notification timer Tn. In this case, for example, it can be configured such that if the time required from the start to the completion of the transfer switching operation is 1.3 seconds, then the timing time of the notification timer Tn is set to, for example, 1 second, and the timing time of the second waiting timer Tw2 is set to, for example, 2 seconds.

[0190] It should be noted that the structures disclosed in the first embodiment (including other embodiments of the first embodiment, hereinafter the same) can be used in combination with structures disclosed in other embodiments, provided that no conflict occurs. Furthermore, the first embodiment disclosed in this specification is an example, and the present invention is not limited thereto; appropriate modifications can be made without departing from the purpose of the present invention. The invention disclosed in the first embodiment relates to a work vehicle. In addition to the aforementioned ordinary combine harvester, the invention disclosed in the first embodiment is also applicable to tractors, paddy field work machines, backhoe excavators, etc., equipped with work devices such as semi-feeding combine harvesters, corn harvesters, and tillage devices.

[0191] [Second Implementation]

[0192] The following is based on Figures 10 to 18 A second embodiment of the harvester of the present invention will be described. The second embodiment represents an example of the present invention for solving the aforementioned [second technical problem].

[0193] [The overall structure of the combine harvester according to the second embodiment]

[0194] Figure 10 The image shows a full-feed combine harvester (equivalent to the "harvester" of this invention). This combine harvester includes a frame 101 and a tracked traveling device 102. A harvesting section 103 is located at the front of the frame, which simultaneously raks in and cuts the standing rice stalks. The harvesting section 103 includes: a raking drum 104 for raking in the standing rice stalks; a cutter 105 for cutting the standing rice stalks; a raking auger pusher 106 for raking in and cutting the rice stalks; and a harvesting frame 107 supporting the above components. Separators 108 for separating the standing rice stalks are located at the front ends of the left and right sides of the harvesting frame 107.

[0195] A driving section 109 is provided at the front of the machine body. A threshing device 110 is provided to thresh the entire stalks of harvested rice. A feeder 111 is provided across the harvesting section 103 and the threshing device 110 to transport the harvested rice stalks to the threshing device 110. The feeder 111 is supported at the front of the threshing device 110 in a way that allows it to swing up and down. A hydraulic cylinder 112 is provided across the feeder 111 and the machine frame 101 to swing the feeder 111 up and down. A grain bin 113 is provided on the right side of the threshing device 110 to store the grains obtained by the threshing process of the threshing device 110. A grain discharge device 114 is provided to discharge the grains in the grain bin 113.

[0196] [The rake-and-roll drum of the second embodiment]

[0197] like Figures 11 to 14 As shown, the rake drum 104 includes left and right support arms 115, a rake drum drive shaft 116, left and right drum frames 117, multiple support rods 118 (equivalent to the "support members" of the present invention), multiple forks 119, and a fork posture holding mechanism 120.

[0198] A connecting shaft 121 is provided at the base end of the left and right support arms 115, spanning across the base end of the left and right support arms 115. The left and right support arms 115 are supported at the rear of the cutting frame 107 via the connecting shaft 121 in a manner that allows them to swing up and down. A rake drum drive shaft 116 is provided at the top end of the left and right support arms 115, and this rake drum drive shaft 116 is input with power for driving the rake drum 104 to rake. A belt drive mechanism 122 for transmitting power to the rake drum drive shaft 116 is connected to the right end of the rake drum drive shaft 116. Hydraulic cylinders 123 (see reference) are provided at the left support arm 115 and the left side of the cutting frame 107, and at the right support arm 115 and the right side of the cutting frame 107, respectively, for swinging the support arms 115 up and down. Figure 10 ).

[0199] The left and right drum frames 117 are rotated about a rotation axis X1 extending along the left and right direction of the machine body in the direction of arrow A. The left drum frame 117 is supported at the left end of the rake drum drive shaft 116. The right drum frame 117 is supported at the right end of the rake drum drive shaft 116. The drum frames 117 are generally pentagonal when viewed from the side. The drum frame 117 includes: a frame body 124 having five arms 124a; and a strip-shaped plate 125 wound over the top ends of the five arms 124a.

[0200] The support rod 118 is a cylindrical support member extending in the left-right direction of the machine body. The support rod 118 is arranged such that it spans the top ends of the five arms 124a of each left-side frame body 124 and the top ends of the five arms 124a of each right-side frame body 124. That is, multiple support rods 118 (five in the second embodiment) are provided in a manner spanning the left and right drum frames 117.

[0201] The fork tooth posture holding mechanism 120 holds the fork tooth 119 in a downwardly extending position from the support rod 118. The fork tooth posture holding mechanism 120 includes: an auxiliary winding frame 126 rotatable about a rotation axis X2 parallel to the rotation axis X1; and a connecting rod 127 connecting the auxiliary winding frame 126 to the support rod 118. The auxiliary winding frame 126 is approximately pentagonal when viewed from the side. The auxiliary winding frame 126 includes: a frame body 128 having five arms 128a; and a strip-shaped plate 129 wound over the top ends of the five arms 128a. The connecting rod 127 is provided across the top ends of each arm 128a and each support rod 118 of the frame body 128.

[0202] The auxiliary drum frame 126 rotates about the rotation axis X2, thereby rotating the support rod 118 via the connecting rod 127. Thus, regardless of the rotation of the drum frame 117, the fork 119 remains in a downwardly extending position from the support rod 118.

[0203] [The fork teeth in the second embodiment]

[0204] Multiple fork teeth 119 are mounted on the support rod 118 at intervals in the left-right direction of the body. Each fork tooth 119 includes: multiple outer fork teeth 130 located at the left and right ends of the support rod 118; and multiple inner fork teeth 131 (corresponding to the "fork teeth" of this invention) located laterally inward than the outer fork teeth 130. The outer fork teeth 130 are constructed of round bar material with an outer diameter larger than that of the inner fork teeth 131, and have higher bending strength than the inner fork teeth 131.

[0205] like Figures 15 to 18 As shown, the inner fork tooth 131 is constructed from a round bar with an outer diameter smaller than that of the outer fork tooth 130, and its bending strength is lower than that of the outer fork tooth 130. The inner fork tooth 131 includes a support portion 131a, a spring portion 131b, an action portion 131c, and an extension portion 131d. The support portion 131a is supported on the support rod 118. The spring portion 131b is located below the support rod 118. The action portion 131c is positioned to hang down from the spring portion 131b and performs a raking action on the planted rice stalks. The extension portion 131d extends across the support portion 131a and the spring portion 131b.

[0206] In the second embodiment, the inner fork tooth 131 includes a support portion 131a, left and right spring portions 131b, left and right actuating portions 131c, and left and right extension portions 131d. The left and right spring portions 131b are arranged to the left and right relative to a support portion 131a. The left extension portion 131d extends across a support portion 131a and the left spring portion 131b. The right extension portion 131d extends across a support portion 131a and the right spring portion 131b. The left actuating portion 131c corresponds to the left spring portion 131b. The right actuating portion 131c corresponds to the right spring portion 131b. The inner fork tooth 131 is formed in a shape that is symmetrical about its left and right center C1.

[0207] The support portion 131a is fixed to the outer periphery of the support rod 118 by bolts 132, with the support portion 131a resting on the upper surface of the support rod 118. The support portion 131a has a rearwardly opening recess for the bolt 132 to pass through in the vertical direction. The support rod 118 has a hole 118a through which the bolt 132 is inserted. The bolt 132 is inserted into the hole 118a from above the support portion 131a. A flat washer 133 is externally fitted into the portion of the bolt 132 between the head 132a and the support portion 131a. A nut 134 is installed in the portion of the bolt 132 that protrudes downward from the support rod 118.

[0208] In the second embodiment, the spring portion 131b is composed of a spring portion that winds three turns around an axis parallel to the support rod 118. The spring portion 131b is located below and in front of the support rod 118. The inner fork tooth 131 is shaped to extend from above the support rod 118, pass behind the support rod 118, and reach the spring portion 131b. The actuating portion 131c is shaped to extend forward and downward from the spring portion 131b and bend backward and downward. The extension portion 131d is shaped to extend from the support portion 131a, pass behind the support rod 118, and reach the spring portion 131b.

[0209] [Cover component of the second embodiment]

[0210] like Figures 15 to 18As shown, a cover member 135 is mounted on the support rod 118. The cover member 135 is composed of a single elongated member covering a plurality of fork teeth 119. The cover member 135 has a left-right length spanning the left and right ends of the support rod 118 (specifically, the left-right length between the leftmost outer fork tooth 130 and the rightmost outer fork tooth 130 among the plurality of fork teeth 119). The cover member 135 includes a fitting portion 136, a first cover portion 137 (corresponding to the "cover portion" of the present invention), and a second cover portion 138 (corresponding to the "part covering the head of the bolt" of the present invention). The fitting portion 136 fits into the outer periphery of the support rod 118. The first cover portion 137 extends downward past the rear of the spring portion 131b and covers the spring portion 131b from the rear. The second cover portion 138 is provided continuously with the fitting portion 136 and covers the head 132a of the bolt 132. The fitting portion 136, the first cover portion 137, and the second cover portion 138 are formed in a manner that spans the entire length of the left and right sides of the cover member 135.

[0211] The fitting portion 136 is formed in an arc shape along the outer periphery of the support rod 118. The fitting portion 136 fits into the front part of the outer periphery of the support rod 118. Specifically, the fitting portion 136 fits into the portion of the outer periphery of the support rod 118 that is forward of the hole 118a. The upper end portion 136a of the fitting portion 136 enters the gap between the front end portion of the support portion 131a and the outer periphery of the support rod 118. The lower end portion 136b of the fitting portion 136 enters the gap between the nut 134 and the outer periphery of the support rod 118.

[0212] The first cover portion 137 extends downward in contact with the rear portion of the inner fork tooth 131. Specifically, the first cover portion 137 extends downward from a position lower than the lower end of the fitting portion 136 to a height position lower than the lower end of the spring portion 131b, in contact with the rear portions of the spring portion 131b and the extension portion 131d. When viewed from the side, the first cover portion 137 tilts forward and downward along the rear portions of the spring portion 131b and the extension portion 131d.

[0213] The second cover 138 covers the head 132a and support 131a of the bolt 132 in such a way that the head 132a and support 131a of the bolt 132 are not exposed. The second cover 138 is formed to span the upper end of the fitting portion 136 and the upper end of the first cover 137.

[0214] [Support bracket of the second embodiment]

[0215] Support brackets 139 are installed on the left and right ends of the support rod 118. The support brackets 139 support the lower portion of the first cover 137 located below the lower end of the fitting portion 136. That is, the lower portions of the cover member 135 located on both sides are each supported by a support bracket 139. The left support bracket 139 is installed on the support rod 118 between the left and right spring portions 131b of the leftmost inner fork 131 among the plurality of inner forks 131. The right support bracket 139 is installed on the support rod 118 between the left and right spring portions 131b of the rightmost inner fork 131 among the plurality of inner forks 131.

[0216] The support bracket 139 is made of a bent sheet metal. The support bracket 139 includes a mounting part 139a, a pressing part 139b, and a locking part 139c (equivalent to the "second locking part" of the present invention).

[0217] A hole 139d is formed in the mounting portion 139a for inserting a bolt 132. A nut 140 is installed on the portion of the bolt 132 that protrudes downward from the mounting portion 139a. That is, the support bracket 139 and the support portion 131a are fixed to the outer periphery of the support rod 118 together by bolts 132.

[0218] The pressing part 139b is positioned upright from the front end of the mounting part 139a. When viewed from the side (when viewing the support rod 118 in cross-section), the pressing part 139b presses against the fitting part 136 from the opposite side (front side) of the support rod 118. When viewed from the side, the upper end of the pressing part 139b is located at a height position above the center X3 of the support rod 118.

[0219] The engaging portion 139c is provided in a state where it hangs down from the rear end of the mounting portion 139a. Here, in the cover member 135, the engaging portion 137a (corresponding to the "first engaging portion" of the present invention) is formed on the inner surface portion of the first cover portion 137 (the surface portion opposite to the spring portion 131b) extending along the entire left and right length of the cover member 135. The engaging portion 137a is formed into a groove shape when viewed from the side. By inserting the engaging portion 139c of the support bracket 139 into the engaging portion 137a of the cover member 135, the engaging portion 137a of the cover member 135 engages with the engaging portion 139c of the support bracket 139. That is, in the state where the engaging portion 137a of the cover member 135 engages with the engaging portion 139c of the support bracket 139, the support bracket 139 is fixed to the outer periphery of the support rod 118 by bolts 132.

[0220] [Other embodiments of the second embodiment]

[0221] (2-1) In the second embodiment described above, the inner fork tooth 131 includes a support portion 131a, left and right spring portions 131b, left and right extension portions 131d, and left and right action portions 131c. However, the inner fork tooth 131 may also be configured to include a support portion 131a, a spring portion 131b, and an action portion 131c.

[0222] (2-2) In the second embodiment described above, the spring portion 131b is composed of a spring portion wound three turns. However, the spring portion 131b may also be composed of a spring portion wound two turns or one turn.

[0223] (2-3) In the second embodiment described above, the cover member 135 includes a second cover portion 138. However, the cover member 135 may also not include a second cover portion 138.

[0224] (2-4) In the second embodiment described above, the inner fork tooth 131 is formed to pass behind the support rod 118 and reach the spring portion 131b. However, it is also possible that the inner fork tooth 131 is formed to pass in front of the support rod 118 and reach the spring portion 131b.

[0225] (2-5) In the second embodiment described above, the fitting part 136 is fitted to the front part of the outer periphery of the support rod 118. However, the fitting part 136 may also be fitted to the rear, upper or lower part of the outer periphery of the support rod 118.

[0226] (2-6) In the second embodiment described above, the first cover portion 137 extends downward in a state of contacting the rear portion of the inner fork tooth 131 (spring portion 131b). However, it is also possible that the first cover portion 137 extends downward in a state of contacting the front portion of the inner fork tooth 131 (spring portion 131b).

[0227] (2-7) In the second embodiment described above, the first cover portion 137 extends downward to a height position lower than the lower end of the spring portion 131b. However, it is also possible that the first cover portion 137 does not extend downward to a height position lower than the lower end of the spring portion 131b. Alternatively, for example, the first cover portion 137 may extend downward to a height position higher than the lower end of the spring portion 131b. Or, the first cover portion 137 may extend downward to the same height position as the lower end of the spring portion 131b.

[0228] (2-8) In the second embodiment described above, the support bracket 139 is fixed to the outer periphery of the support rod 118 by a bolt 132 shared with the inner fork tooth 131. However, it is also possible that the support bracket 139 is fixed to the outer periphery of the support rod 118 by a bolt different from the bolt 132.

[0229] (2-9) In the second embodiment described above, the support bracket 139 is mounted on the support rod 118 between the left and right spring portions 131b of an inner fork tooth 131. However, it is also possible that the support bracket 139 is mounted on the support rod 118 between adjacent inner fork teeth 131.

[0230] (2-10) In the second embodiment described above, with the engaging portion 137a of the cover member 135 engaged with the engaging portion 139c of the support bracket 139, the support bracket 139 is fixed to the outer periphery of the support rod 118 by bolts 132. However, it is also possible that the cover member 135 and the support bracket 139 do not have engaging portions 137a and 139c, respectively.

[0231] (2-11) In the second embodiment described above, the support bracket 139 is provided with a pressing portion 139b. However, the support bracket 139 may also not be provided with a pressing portion 139b. In this case, for example, the cover member 135 may be prevented from falling off the support rod 118 by covering the cover member 135 from above with a cover member divided into front and rear sections and fastening the cover member in the front-rear direction.

[0232] (2-12) In the second embodiment described above, a support bracket 139 is provided. However, the support bracket 139 may not be provided.

[0233] (2-13) In the second embodiment described above, the lower portions of the cover member 135 located on the left and right sides are each supported by the support bracket 139. However, it is also possible that, instead of supporting the lower portions of the cover member 135 located at the left and right center, the lower portions of the cover member 135 are supported by the support bracket 139 at the same time.

[0234] (2-14) In the second embodiment described above, the cover member 135 is composed of a single elongated member covering a plurality of fork teeth 119. However, the cover member 135 may also be configured to be able to be divided into two or more members on the left and right.

[0235] It should be noted that the structures disclosed in the second embodiment (including other embodiments of the second embodiment, hereinafter the same) can be used in combination with structures disclosed in other embodiments, provided that no conflict occurs. Furthermore, the second embodiment disclosed in this specification is an example, and the present invention is not limited thereto; appropriate modifications can be made without departing from the purpose of the present invention. In addition to full-feed combine harvesters, the invention disclosed in the second embodiment can also be used in corn harvesters.

[0236] [Third Implementation Method]

[0237] The following is based on Figures 19 to 28A third embodiment of the working machine of the present invention will be described. The third embodiment represents an example of the present invention for solving the above-described [third technical problem].

[0238] [Overall structure of the third embodiment]

[0239] exist Figure 19 The image shows a standard type of combine harvester. The combine harvester's running gear includes a frame 201 and a tracked running gear 202. A harvesting section 203 for harvesting standing rice stalks from farmland is located at the front of the running gear. The harvesting section 203 includes: a harrowing drum 204 for harrowing the standing rice stalks; a cutter 205 for cutting the standing rice stalks; and a auger pusher 206 for laterally feeding the harvested rice stalks, converging them in the cutting width direction, and then conveying them rearward.

[0240] A driver's compartment 207 is located behind the harvesting section 203. The driver's compartment 207 is covered by a cab 208. A grain bin 209 for storing the grains obtained through threshing is located behind the driver's compartment 207. A threshing device 210 for threshing the entire harvested stalks is arranged laterally alongside the grain bin 209. The grain bin 209 is configured to rotate about an axis Y1 extending vertically around its rear, between an open position extending to the right and a closed position adjacent to the rear of the driver's compartment 207. A feeder 211 for transporting the entire harvested stalks to the threshing device 210 is provided, spanning the harvesting section 203 and the threshing device 210. The driver's compartment 207 includes a driver's seat 212 and an operation panel 213 equipped with various operating components. A power unit 215 is located below the driver's compartment 207.

[0241] [Power unit in the third embodiment]

[0242] like Figures 21-24 As shown, the power unit 215 includes an engine 216, a radiator 217 for engine cooling, a cooling fan 218, and a fan shroud 219. The radiator 217 cools the engine 216, and the cooling fan 218 draws in outside air to cool the radiator 217. The fan shroud 219 directs outside air from the radiator 217 to the cooling fan 218.

[0243] like Figure 20 , 22 As shown, the engine compartment 220 includes an engine hood 221 that covers the engine 216. The engine hood 221 supports the driver's seat 212 from below and opens laterally outward. A radiator 217 is located laterally outside the engine 216 within the engine compartment 220. A cooling fan 218 is located laterally inside the radiator 217 within the engine compartment 220.

[0244] The outer side of the engine compartment 220 is covered by a dust cover 222 located on the outer side of the fuselage relative to the radiator 217. A dust filter 223 is provided on the outer side of the dust cover 222, which is breathable and prevents dust from passing through.

[0245] The rear end of the dust cover 222 is supported on a support frame 225 in a manner that allows it to swing about a longitudinal axis Y2 via a hinge 224. The support frame 225 is formed in a frame shape, generally along the outer periphery of the dust cover 222, and is fixed to the radiator frame 226. The dust cover 222 can swing about a longitudinal axis Y2 in a closed position covering the outer side of the engine compartment 220 and an open position that opens the outer side of the engine compartment 220 (see reference). Figure 20 It swings between the imaginary lines.

[0246] Cooling fan 218 draws in outside air through a closed dust cover 222 to cool radiator 217. A fan shroud 219 is provided between radiator 217 and cooling fan 218, guiding outside air to efficiently pass the cooling air generated by cooling fan 218 through radiator 217. The fan shroud 219 surrounds the outer periphery of the air intake space between cooling fan 218 and radiator 217 and is positioned across cooling fan 218 and radiator 217.

[0247] Although not shown, the transmission mechanism that transmits power from the engine 216 to the cooling fan 218 includes a rotation direction switching mechanism capable of switching the rotation direction of the cooling fan 218 in both directions. In the forward rotation state, the cooling fan 218 draws in outside air through the dust cover 222 to cool the radiator 217. In the reverse rotation state, the cooling fan 218 blows air outwards, blowing away dust adhering to the dust filter 223 of the dust cover 222. When the cooling fan 218 repeatedly reverses its rotation, dust may sometimes accumulate on the inner side of the radiator 217.

[0248] The radiator 217 has a rectangular cooling surface 217A when viewed from the side. External air drawn in by the cooling fan 218 through the dust cover 222 passes through the cooling surface 217A and is cooled. Near the cooling surface 217A of the radiator 217 is a cooler 229 that uses cooling air to cool the combustion air for the engine 216.

[0249] like Figure 21 , 22 As shown, the exhaust port 231 of the air filter 230 located behind the driver's seat 212 is connected to the suction port of the compression section 232a in the supercharger 232 located at the top of the engine 216 via the supercharger suction pipe 233. Figure 22 , 23As shown, the outlet of the compression section 232a in the turbocharger 232 is connected to the inlet 229a of the air cooler 229 via a supply pipe 234. The outlet 229b of the air cooler 229 is connected to the intake section of the engine 216 via an engine suction pipe 235. The suction section of the turbine section 232b in the turbocharger 232 is connected to the exhaust manifold 237 of the engine 216, and an exhaust pipe 238 is connected to the exhaust section of the turbine section 232b in the turbocharger 232.

[0250] An exhaust purification device 239 is provided on the upper part of the engine 216. The exhaust purification device 239 purifies the exhaust by reducing the diesel particulates contained in the exhaust of the engine 216 through a trap filter (not shown). The front part of the exhaust purification device 239 is supported by a connecting flange 241 of the exhaust pipe 238 via a side-view L-shaped support bracket 240.

[0251] The support bracket 240 holds the supply pipe 234 in position relative to the connection point of the booster 232. For example... Figure 28 As shown, a mounting plate 242 extending along the front-rear direction is integrally provided on the right end of the support bracket 240. The two sides of a retaining member 243, which clamps and holds the supply pipe 234, are bolted to the mounting plate 242. The retaining member 243 holds the supply pipe 234 in place, preventing it from falling off due to friction.

[0252] The support structure of the radiator 217 will be described. For example... Figures 21-25 As shown, the radiator 217 is supported by a radiator frame 226, which serves as a support frame. The radiator frame 226 covers the air intake space between the radiator 217 and the dust cover 222, and is formed in a square frame shape along the outer periphery of the radiator 217 in such a way that it guides external air after passing through the dust cover 222 to the cooling surface 217A. That is, as shown... Figure 25 As shown, the radiator frame 226 has a lower frame-shaped portion 245, front and rear frame-shaped portions 246 and 247, and an upper frame-shaped portion 248, which are rectangular when viewed from the side, arranged along the outer periphery of the radiator 217. The bottom of the radiator frame 226 is supported on the body frame 201.

[0253] The radiator frame 226 includes a mounting support 249, which protrudes laterally from the lower frame-like portion 245 toward the inner side of the machine body. The mounting support 249 is a horizontally oriented plate-like body that is longer in the front-to-back direction and narrower in the left-to-right direction. A stop 250 is provided at the front end of the mounting support 249 to prevent the radiator 217 mounted on it from falling forward. No stop is provided at the rear end of the mounting support 249, leaving the rear end open. Therefore, the operator can remove the radiator 217 rearward. A reinforcing rib 251 is provided on the lower side of the rear end portion of the mounting support 249.

[0254] like Figure 24 , 25 As shown, the mounting support portion 249 has two engaging holes 253. Two locking pins 252 protrude downwards from the lower part of the radiator 217 at both the front and rear. Each of the two locking pins 252 enters the engaging hole 253 to prevent misalignment of the radiator 217, thereby mounting and supporting the radiator 217 on the mounting support portion 249. Furthermore, the upper part of the radiator 217 is connected at both the front and rear to the frame-shaped portion 246 of the upper part of the radiator frame 226 via connecting brackets 254.

[0255] like Figure 21 As shown, a large opening 255 is formed at the rear of the engine compartment 220, allowing the radiator 217 to be removed rearward. When the operator removes the radiator 217 for maintenance work, as... Figure 20 As shown by the imaginary line, the radiator 217, supported on the mounting support 249, can slide rearward from the opening 255 at the rear of the engine compartment 220. At this time, the radiator 217 causes the upper surface of the mounting support 249 to slide rearward along the cooling surface 217A. When the operator removes the radiator 217, it is necessary to first open the grain bin 209 to the open position, disconnect the cooling water circulation pipe 256, and release the connection of the connecting bracket 254. Furthermore, the operator moves the radiator 217 while sliding relative to the mounting support 249 with the locking pin 252 and the locking hole 253 released.

[0256] like Figure 24 , 25As shown, a cleaning port 257, which is an opening extending vertically through the frame portion 245 at the lower part of the radiator frame 226, is formed, and a cover 258 is provided for opening and closing the cleaning port 257. The frame portion 245 has a longitudinal portion 245a for fixing a support frame 225 for securing the dust cover 222 to the outer side in the left-right direction and a longitudinal portion 245b for fixing a support portion 249 to the inner side in the left-right direction, forming a U-shaped cross-section when viewed in the front-back direction. Therefore, if dust accumulates inside the lower frame portion 245, it is difficult to clean. Therefore, a structure that allows dust to be removed through the cleaning port 257 is adopted.

[0257] like Figure 26 As shown, the cover 258 engages with the bifurcated insertion portion 259 located at the rear end of the cleaning port 257 by inserting it into the inner edge of the rear end of the cleaning port 257. The front and rear central portions and the front end of the cover 258 are bolted to the periphery of the cleaning port 257 in the lower frame-shaped portion 245. The cover 258 can be easily removed when the bolts are released.

[0258] Next, the fan shroud 219 will be described. The fan shroud 219 is positioned to surround the outer periphery of the air intake space between the cooling fan 218 and the heatsink 217, and is arranged across the cooling fan 218 and the heatsink 217. (As...) Figure 25 , 27 As shown, the fan shroud 219 includes: an upper portion 219a covering the upper side of the intake space; a lower portion 219b covering the lower side of the intake space; a rear portion 219c covering the rear side of the intake space; a front portion 219d covering the front side of the intake space; and a vertical wall portion 219e covering the left side (cooling fan 218 side) of the intake space. The rear side corresponds to the removal direction of the heatsink 217 as the front side, and the rear portion 219c is equivalent to the "front side portion" covering the intake space in the removal direction. The front portion 219d is equivalent to the "depth side portion" covering the intake space in the depth side.

[0259] The upper portion 219a is positioned horizontally. The lower portion 219b is positioned at an angle, becoming more prominent towards the left and then towards the top. The rear portion 219c is positioned at an angle, becoming more prominent towards the left and then towards the front. The front portion 219d is positioned at an angle, becoming more prominent towards the left and then towards the rear. The right end of the fan shroud 219 is formed into a rectangle surrounding the outer periphery of the heat sink 217. Along the front-back direction and the vertical direction, the air intake space surrounded by the fan shroud 219 gradually narrows towards the left (towards the cooling fan 218). With this configuration, the cooling air passing through the air intake space is effectively guided towards the cooling fan 218 side.

[0260] An intake opening 260 for drawing air into the cooling fan 218 is formed in the longitudinal wall portion 219e. The intake opening 260 is circular and has a large diameter that is approximately equal to the total width of the vertical width of the longitudinal wall portion 219e. A peripheral wall portion 261 protruding toward the cooling fan 218 is formed at the inner edge of the intake opening 260. The cooling fan 218 is positioned to enter the peripheral wall portion 261. The intake opening 260 corresponds to an "opening" formed on the transverse inner side of the dust cover 222.

[0261] To explain, the longitudinal wall portion 219e in the fan shroud 219 is divided approximately at the left-right center into a left longitudinal wall portion 219e1 on the left and a right longitudinal wall portion 219e2 on the right. The left longitudinal wall portion 219e1 corresponds to the "front longitudinal wall portion" located on the front side in the extraction direction. Furthermore, the right longitudinal wall portion 219e2 corresponds to the "depth longitudinal wall portion" located on the depth side in the extraction direction.

[0262] The upper portion 219a, lower portion 219b, and rear portion 219c of the fan shroud 219 are integrally formed. Furthermore, the left longitudinal wall portion 219e1 is screwed to the integrally formed upper portion 219a, lower portion 219b, and rear portion 219c. The right longitudinal wall portion 219e2 and the front portion 219d are integrally formed.

[0263] Therefore, the fan shroud 219 is composed of an upper part 219a, a lower part 219b, a rear part 219c and a fixed left longitudinal wall part 219e1 forming a partial segment B1, and an integrally formed right longitudinal wall part 219e2 and a front part 219d forming another segment B2, which is configured to be able to be divided into two segments B1 and B2 in the circumferential direction.

[0264] At the upper and lower points of the boundary 262 between the left longitudinal wall portion 219e1 and the right longitudinal wall portion 219e2 in the peripheral wall portion 261, flange connection portions 263 capable of bolting are formed. The flange connection portions 263 are configured to be able to mate in the front-to-back direction and to be bolted in and out in the front-to-back direction. It should be noted that, although not shown, the overlapping portions of the two segments B1 and B2 are secured by multiple screws. These screws can also be removed.

[0265] Part of the partition B1 is supported by the radiator 217, while the other partitions B2 are separate from the radiator 217. Mounting brackets 264 are provided on the upper surface of the upper portion 219a and the lower surface of the lower portion 219b, spaced apart in the front-rear direction. With the fan shroud 219 in the appropriate mounting position, each mounting bracket 264 is bolted to the mounting portion 265 provided on the radiator 217. The other partitions B2 are separate from the radiator 217, but can be connected to a portion of the partitions B1 mounted on the radiator 217 via upper and lower flange connections 263.

[0266] A portion of the partition B1 can be removed rearward along the removal direction of the radiator 217. When removing a portion of partition B1, simply disconnecting the upper and lower flange connections 263 will cause the remaining partition B2 to fall sideways due to the lack of supporting components. Furthermore, a portion of partition B1 can be removed rearward without interfering with the cooling fan 218. The operator can remove a portion of partition B1 simultaneously with removing the radiator 217. Alternatively, the operator can remove only a portion of partition B1 by simply disconnecting it from the radiator 217.

[0267] [Other embodiments of the third embodiment]

[0268] The present invention is not limited to the structure illustrated in the third embodiment described above. Hereinafter, other representative embodiments of the present invention are illustrated.

[0269] (3-1) In the third embodiment described above, the left longitudinal wall portion 219e1 is fixed with screws. However, it is also possible that the left longitudinal wall portion 219e1 is integrally formed with the upper portion 219a, the lower portion 219b and the rear portion 219c.

[0270] (3-2) In the third embodiment described above, a structure in which the right longitudinal wall portion 219e2 and the front portion 219d are integrally formed is adopted. However, it is also possible to replace this structure by connecting the right longitudinal wall portion 219e2 and the front portion 219d in a detachable manner.

[0271] (3-3) In the third embodiment described above, a structure in which other partitions B2 are separated from the heat sink 217 is used. However, this structure can also be replaced by a structure in which other partitions B2 are supported on the heat sink 217.

[0272] (3-4) In the third embodiment described above, a structure in which the fan shroud 219 is divided into a portion of the shroud B1 and other portions B2 is used. However, this structure can be replaced by a structure that is divided into three or more portions.

[0273] (3-5) In the third embodiment described above, a structure in which a cleaning port 257 (opening) is formed through the bottom of the frame portion 245 is adopted. However, a structure in which the cleaning port 257 is not formed may be adopted instead of this structure.

[0274] It should be noted that the structures disclosed in the third embodiment (including other embodiments of the third embodiment, hereinafter the same) can be used in combination with structures disclosed in other embodiments, provided that no conflict occurs. Furthermore, the third embodiment disclosed in this specification is an example, and the present invention is not limited thereto; appropriate modifications can be made without departing from the purpose of the present invention. The invention disclosed in the third embodiment can be applied to harvesters such as ordinary combine harvesters and semi-feeding combine harvesters, as well as agricultural machinery such as tractors and rice transplanters. It can be applied not only to agricultural machinery but also to construction machinery and other operating machines.

[0275] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0276] [First Implementation]

[0277] 3: Harvesting section (operating device); 4: Threshing device (operating device); 5: Grain box (operating device); 6: Grain discharge device (operating device); 8: Engine (drive source); 23: First transmission belt (transmission belt); 23A: Threshing clutch (operating clutch); 52: Clutch operating unit; 53: Throttle operating component; 55: Speed ​​detection sensor; 57: Notification unit; R: Engine speed (speed); RL: Threshold; Rd: First rate of change; Ru: Second rate of change; Tn: Notification timer (preset time from the start of the transmission switching operation); Tw1: First waiting timer (first interval time); Tw2: Second waiting timer (second interval time).

[0278] [Second Implementation]

[0279] 103: Cutting section; 104: Rake drum; 117: Drum frame; 118: Support rod (support member); 131: Inner fork tooth (fork tooth); 131a: Support section; 131b: Spring section; 131c: Actuating section; 132: Bolt; 132a: Bolt head; 135: Cover member; 136: Fitting section; 137: First cover section (cover section); 137a: Engaging section (first engaging section); 138: Second cover section (part covering the bolt head); 139: Support bracket; 139b: Pressing section; 139c: Engaging section (second engaging section); X1: Rotation axis.

[0280] [Third Implementation Method]

[0281] 216: Engine; 217: Radiator; 218: Cooling fan; 219: Fan shroud; 219a: Upper part; 219b: Lower part; 219c: Rear part (with front part); 219d: Front part (depth side part); 219e: Longitudinal wall part; 219e1: Left longitudinal wall part (with front longitudinal wall part); 219e2: Right longitudinal wall part (depth side longitudinal wall part); 220: Engine compartment; 221: Engine hood; 222: Dust cover; 226: Support frame; 243: Lower frame-like part; 255: Opening (opening that allows the radiator to be removed to the rear); 257: Cleaning port (opening that runs vertically through the radiator); 258: Cover; 260: Suction opening (opening part); 261: Peripheral wall part; 262: Boundary.

Claims

1. A harvester comprising a harvesting section for simultaneously raking in and harvesting upright crops, the harvesting section having a raking drum for raking in the upright crops, characterized in that... The rake-gathering drum includes: left and right drum frames that are rotatably driven about a rotation axis extending in the left-right direction of the machine body; rod-shaped support members extending in the left-right direction of the machine body, with a plurality of support members arranged across the left and right drum frames; and a plurality of forks installed on the support members at intervals in the left-right direction of the machine body. The fork tooth includes: a support portion supported on the support member; a spring portion located below the support member; and an actuating portion disposed in a state hanging down from the spring portion, for harrowing the planted crop. The harvester includes a cover member having: a fitting portion that fits into the front portion of the outer periphery of the support member; and a cover portion that extends downward past the rear of the spring portion and covers the spring portion from the rear. The cover extends downward to a height position lower than the lower end of the fitting portion. The harvester has a support bracket that supports the lower portion of the cover located below the lower end of the fitting portion.

2. The harvester according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support portion is fixed to the outer periphery of the support member by bolts. The cover member has a portion that is provided continuously with the fitting portion and covers the head of the bolt.

3. The harvester according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The fork teeth are shaped to pass behind the support member and reach the spring portion. The cover extends downward in contact with the rear of the fork tooth.

4. The harvester according to claim 3, characterized in that, The cover extends downward in contact with the rear of the spring portion to a height position lower than the lower end of the spring portion.

5. The harvester according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The support portion is fixed to the outer periphery of the support member by bolts. The support bracket, together with the support portion, is fixed to the outer periphery of the support member by the bolts.

6. The harvester according to claim 5, characterized in that, The cover component has a first engaging portion, and the support bracket has a second engaging portion. With the first engaging portion engaged with the second engaging portion, the support bracket is fixed to the outer periphery of the support member by the bolts.

7. The harvester according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The support bracket has a pressing part that presses the fitting part from the opposite side of the support member when the support member is viewed in cross-section.

8. The harvester according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The cover component is an elongated component that covers the plurality of the forked teeth. The lower portions of the cover component located on the left and right sides are each supported by the support bracket.

9. The harvester according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The fork tooth includes: a support portion; left and right spring portions arranged in a manner corresponding to the support portion on the left and right; and left and right actuating portions corresponding to the left and right spring portions respectively.

10. The harvester according to claim 9, characterized in that, The support bracket is mounted on the support member between the left and right spring portions.

11. The harvester according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The spring portion is located at the front and below the support member. When viewed from the side, the cover tilts forward and downward along the rear of the spring section.

Images