Pressing system in module wrap feed arrangement

Abstract

A pinch system is provided for use with an associated wrap floor assembly that is movable between a lowered position and a raised position relative to a chassis supporting a module forming machine of an associated harvester. A wrap frame roller member is coupled with a frame structure of the associated wrap floor assembly, where the wrap frame roller member is movable with the associated wrap floor assembly relative to the chassis of the associated harvester between the lowered position and the raised position. A chassis roller member is provided that is offset relative to the chassis of the associated harvester toward the associated wrap floor assembly. A method of retrofitting a pinch system provides a persistent heterogeneous pinch system in an associated wrap floor assembly that is movable between a lowered position and a raised position relative to a chassis of a module forming machine supporting an associated harvester.

Description

[0001] Related Applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 516,281 filed on July 28, 2023. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to crop baling systems and crop baling methods, and in particular to crimping systems and methods for assisting in delivering an outer covering to a bale of produce. Although embodiments herein will be described in conjunction with a non-homogeneous crimping system and method for assisting in delivering a sheet of wrapping material to a cotton crop formed in a round cotton module, and also in conjunction with a durable non-homogeneous crimping system and method for assisting in delivering a sheet of wrapping material to a cotton crop formed in a round cotton module, and further also in conjunction with methods for retrofitting existing equipment to include such systems and perform such methods, it should be appreciated that embodiments have broader application, including, for example, such systems and methods for assisting in delivering covering material for baling or otherwise wrapping other items or products, as well as other agricultural crop products (e.g., hay, straw, and the like). Background Art

[0004] Round module formers or balers typically use belts and rollers in a module forming chamber to manipulate the harvested material into a desired form. Round hay balers and round module formers for cotton typically both use belts extending in parallel under tension that run over a series of rollers to compact the harvested material into a cylindrical shape. The belts travel along the rollers to create a forming chamber where the harvested material is collected and formed into the desired shape and density. Once the harvested material is formed into the desired size, a wrap delivery system delivers a protective and supportive wrap material into the forming chamber to wrap the module with the wrap material before the module is ejected from the forming chamber.

[0005] The wrapping material is usually distributed to the module forming chamber by the wrap delivery system from the supply roll positioned upstream of the wrap delivery system. The supply roll is positioned on the support roller, and the wrapping material is fed by the selectively driven wrap feeding belt to finally enter the module forming chamber via the wrap delivery system. Usually, the wrap delivery roller is biased against the selectively driven wrap feeding belt to clamp the wrapping material therebetween in cooperation with the belt. The wrap feeding belt is usually powered by a mechanical connection with the roller and / or driven belt of the module forming machine, and usually moves at a speed slightly less than the speed of the belt and / or roller of the module forming machine, thereby causing the nominal stretching of the wrapping material when the wrapping material is wrapped on the harvested material. It has been found that the plastic wrapping material with the desired elastic properties is particularly suitable for this application. In addition to the above, the wrapping floor belt of the selectively energized wrapping floor assembly that can be selectively moved correspondingly can be used to convey the wrapping material toward the clamping position at the module forming chamber.

[0006] In the case of pre-separated lengths of wrapping material, adjacent segments of the wrapping material are likely to be interlaced together at overlapping joints which may be connected together by perforations and / or adhesives, thereby permitting separation of the joint upon application of a predetermined tension without the need for a cutting mechanism. Instead, what is required is to apply the tension necessary to separate the material at the joint, such as, for example, by applying such a force in a length portion of the wrapping material which typically extends between a supply roll and a clamping location formed between a rotating module and a module forming belt of the packaging chamber.

[0007] However, sometimes, the wrap material may be fed incorrectly due to misalignment, deformation, wear of components located anywhere along the material feed path, and for many other reasons including, for example, undesirable changes in material properties of the wrap material or weather conditions that may affect undesirable movement of the wrap material in the feed system.

[0008] For example, in order to help retain the wrap material during use of the system in adverse weather conditions and in particular in windy conditions, so as to help prevent misfeeding, one or more conveying assisting nips have been provided. These are essentially composed of one or more rotatable clamping rollers carried on the arms of a pivoting support assembly relative to the frame or chassis of the harvester, wherein one or more conveying assisting nips are formed between the one or more clamping rollers and the wrap floor belt. The pivoting support assembly includes a spring or the like to bias the pivoting support assembly for urging the one or more clamping rollers carried on the arms generally away from the frame or chassis of the harvester and engaging with the wrap floor belt. In that manner, one or more permanent nips are created between the clamping rollers and the wrap floor belt, regardless of whether the movable wrap floor assembly is arranged in a raised or engaged configuration relative to the portion of the module forming chamber, or in a lowered or disengaged configuration relative to the portion of the module forming chamber. The permanent nips are homogeneous in that they are formed by the same set of one or more clamping rollers and wrap floor belts, regardless of whether the movable wrap floor assembly is disposed in a raised or lowered configuration relative to portions of the module forming chamber.

[0009] Use one or more delivery assist nips as described above has successfully helped minimize the misfeeding of wrapping material. However, conditions may still arise where, for example, a gust of wind affecting the backward feed or withdrawal of wrapping material from the nip may cause interruption of the delivery of wrapping material to the module forming chamber.

[0010] In addition to the above, some misfeeding may occur due to early separation at the overlapping joints of the pre-separated lengths of wrap material. Early separation may be attributed to the different properties of the wrap material originating from different suppliers.

[0011] Since incorrect feeding of the wrapping material may result in an incorrectly wrapped bale, the machine often needs to be serviced to correct the underlying problem(s). This is time consuming and therefore costly.

[0012] Therefore, there is a need for methods and systems that help reduce or eliminate wrap material feeding problems. Summary of the invention

[0013] According to aspects herein, there is provided a non-homogeneous clamping system for use with an associated wrap floor assembly, the wrap floor assembly being movable between a lowered position and a raised position relative to a chassis of a module former supporting an associated harvester. The non-homogeneous clamping system comprises: a plurality of wrap frame roller members connected to a frame structure of the associated wrap floor assembly, wherein the plurality of wrap frame roller members are movable with the associated wrap floor assembly relative to the chassis of the associated harvester between the lowered position and the raised position; and a plurality of chassis roller members, the plurality of chassis roller members being biased toward the associated wrap floor assembly relative to the chassis of the associated harvester. The plurality of wrap frame roller members are connected to the frame structure at a position relative to the plurality of chassis roller members, thereby causing a non-homogeneous pressure zone to form. With respect to the associated wrap floor assembly being disposed in the lowered position relative to the chassis, one or more first pressure zones in the non-homogeneous pressure zones are formed between the plurality of chassis roller members and the plurality of wrap frame roller members. With the associated wrap floor assembly disposed in the raised position relative to the chassis, one or more second ones of the anisotropic nips are formed between the plurality of chassis roller members and an associated wrap floor belt of the associated wrap floor assembly.

[0014] According to aspects herein, there is provided a persistent non-homogeneous clamping system for use with an associated wrap floor assembly, the wrap floor assembly being movable between a lowered position and a raised position relative to a chassis of a module former supporting an associated harvester. The persistent clamping system comprises: a plurality of wrap frame roller members connected to a frame structure of the associated wrap floor assembly, wherein the plurality of wrap frame roller members are movable with the associated wrap floor assembly relative to the chassis of the associated harvester between the lowered position and the raised position; and a plurality of chassis roller members, the plurality of chassis roller members being biased toward the associated wrap floor assembly relative to the chassis of the associated harvester. The plurality of wrap frame roller members are connected to the frame structure at a position relative to the plurality of chassis roller members, thereby causing a persistent non-homogeneous clamping zone to form. With respect to the associated wrap floor assembly being disposed in the lowered position relative to the chassis, one or more first of the persistent inhomogeneous pressure zones are formed between the plurality of chassis roller members and the plurality of wrap frame roller members. With respect to the associated wrap floor assembly being disposed in the raised position relative to the chassis, one or more second of the persistent inhomogeneous pressure zones are formed between the plurality of chassis roller members and the associated wrap floor belt of the associated wrap floor assembly. With respect to the associated wrap floor assembly being disposed in a transition configuration between the lowered position and the raised position relative to the chassis of the associated harvester, one or more third of the persistent inhomogeneous pressure zones are formed between the plurality of chassis roller members and the combination of the plurality of wrap frame roller members and the associated wrap floor belt.

[0015] According to another aspect herein, a method of retrofitting a clamping system provides a non-homogeneous clamping system in an associated wrap floor assembly that is movable between a lowered position and a raised position relative to a chassis of a module former supporting an associated harvester. The method includes providing a plurality of wrap frame roller members, and connecting the plurality of wrap frame roller members to a frame structure of the associated wrap floor assembly, wherein the plurality of wrap frame roller members are movable with the associated wrap floor assembly relative to the chassis of the associated harvester between the lowered position and the raised position. The plurality of wrap frame roller members are connected to the frame structure at a position relative to the plurality of chassis roller members to cause a non-uniform pressure zone to be formed thereby: between the plurality of chassis roller members and the plurality of wrap frame roller members when the associated wrap floor assembly is arranged in a lowered position relative to the chassis; between the plurality of chassis roller members and the associated wrap floor belt of the associated wrap floor assembly when the associated wrap floor assembly is arranged in a raised position relative to the chassis; and between the plurality of chassis roller members and the combination of the plurality of wrap frame roller members and the associated wrap floor belt at a transition structure between the lowered position and the raised position when the associated wrap floor assembly is arranged relative to the chassis of the associated harvester, wherein the plurality of chassis roller members are biased toward the associated wrap floor assembly relative to the chassis of the associated harvester.

[0016] According to another aspect herein, a method of retrofitting a clamping system provides a persistent non-homogeneous clamping system in an associated wrap floor assembly that is movable between a lowered position and a raised position relative to a chassis of a module former supporting an associated harvester. The method includes providing a plurality of wrap frame roller members, and connecting the plurality of wrap frame roller members to a frame structure of the associated wrap floor assembly, wherein the plurality of wrap frame roller members are movable with the associated wrap floor assembly relative to the chassis of the associated harvester between the lowered position and the raised position. The plurality of wrap frame roller members are connected to the frame structure at a position relative to the plurality of chassis roller members to promote a persistent non-homogeneous pressure zone thereby: being formed between the plurality of chassis roller members and the plurality of wrap frame roller members when the associated wrap floor assembly is arranged in a lowered position relative to the chassis; being formed between the plurality of chassis roller members and the associated wrap floor belt of the associated wrap floor assembly when the associated wrap floor assembly is arranged in a raised position relative to the chassis; and being formed between the plurality of chassis roller members and the combination of the plurality of wrap frame roller members and the associated wrap floor belt at a transition structure between the lowered position and the raised position when the associated wrap floor assembly is arranged relative to the chassis of the associated harvester, wherein the plurality of chassis roller members are biased toward the associated wrap floor assembly relative to the chassis of the associated harvester.

[0017] According to aspects herein, there is provided a clamping system for use with an associated wrap floor assembly that is movable between a lowered position and a raised position relative to a chassis of a module former supporting an associated harvester. The clamping system includes: a plurality of wrap frame roller members connected to a frame structure of the associated wrap floor assembly; and a plurality of chassis roller members that are biased toward the associated wrap floor assembly relative to the chassis of the associated harvester. The plurality of wrap frame roller members are movable with the associated wrap floor assembly relative to the chassis of the associated harvester between the lowered position and the raised position. The plurality of wrap frame roller members are connected to the frame structure at a position relative to the plurality of chassis roller members, thereby causing a pressure zone to be formed between the plurality of chassis roller members and the plurality of wrap frame roller members for the associated wrap floor assembly to be disposed in the lowered position relative to the chassis.

[0018] In any of the embodiments herein, the plurality of wrap frame roller members are connected to the frame structure at a position relative to the plurality of chassis roller members, thereby causing a non-uniform pressure zone: formed between the plurality of chassis roller members and the plurality of wrap frame roller members when the associated wrap floor assembly is set in a lowered position relative to the chassis; and formed between the plurality of chassis roller members and the associated wrap floor belts of the associated wrap floor assembly when the associated wrap floor assembly is set in the raised position relative to the chassis.

[0019] In any of the embodiments herein, the plurality of wrap frame roller members are connected to the frame structure at a position relative to the plurality of chassis roller members, thereby causing a durable pressure zone to be formed between a combination of the plurality of chassis roller members and the associated wrap floor belts of the associated wrap floor assembly at a transition configuration between the lowered position and the raised position relative to the chassis of the associated harvester.

[0020] In any of the embodiments herein, the plurality of wrap frame roller members are unidirectionally rotatably connected to the frame structure of the associated wrap floor assembly.

[0021] According to aspects herein, there is provided a persistent non-homogeneous clamping system for use with an associated wrap floor assembly that is movable between a lowered position and a raised position relative to a chassis of a module former supporting an associated harvester. The clamping system includes: a plurality of wrap frame roller members connected to a frame structure of the associated wrap floor assembly; and a plurality of chassis roller members that are biased toward the associated wrap floor assembly relative to the chassis of the associated harvester. The plurality of wrap frame roller members are movable with the associated wrap floor assembly between the lowered position and the raised position relative to the chassis of the associated harvester. The multiple wrap frame roller members are connected to the frame structure at a position relative to the multiple chassis roller members, thereby causing a persistent non-uniform pressure zone: when the associated wrap floor assembly is set in a lowered position relative to the chassis, it is formed between the multiple chassis roller members and the multiple wrap frame roller members; when the associated wrap floor assembly is set in a raised position relative to the chassis, it is formed between the multiple chassis roller members and the associated wrap floor belt of the associated wrap floor assembly; and when the associated wrap floor assembly is set at a transition structure between the lowered position and the raised position relative to the chassis of the associated harvester, it is formed between the multiple chassis roller members and the combination of the multiple wrap frame roller members and the associated wrap floor belt.

[0022] According to aspects herein, a method for retrofitting an associated harvester having a wrap floor assembly movable between a lowered position and a raised position relative to a chassis supporting a module former to provide a clamping system in the associated harvester is provided. The retrofitting method includes: providing a plurality of wrap frame roller members; and connecting the plurality of wrap frame roller members to a frame structure of an associated wrap floor assembly at a position relative to a plurality of chassis roller members to move with the associated wrap floor assembly to cause a clamping zone to be formed therefrom between the plurality of chassis roller members and the plurality of wrap frame roller members with respect to the associated wrap floor assembly being disposed in the lowered position relative to the chassis, wherein the plurality of chassis roller members are biased toward the associated wrap floor assembly relative to the chassis of the associated harvester.

[0023] In any of the modified embodiments herein, providing the pressure zone includes: providing a non-homogeneous clamping system in the associated harvester by connecting the multiple wrap frame roller members to the frame structure of the associated wrap floor assembly at a position relative to the multiple chassis roller members to move with the associated wrap floor assembly to cause the non-homogeneous pressure zone to be formed thereby: between the multiple chassis roller members and the multiple wrap frame roller members for the associated wrap floor assembly to be set in a lowered position relative to the chassis; and between the multiple chassis roller members and the associated wrap floor belt of the associated wrap floor assembly for the associated wrap floor assembly to be set in the raised position relative to the chassis, wherein the multiple chassis roller members are biased toward the associated wrap floor assembly relative to the chassis of the associated harvester.

[0024] In any of the modified embodiments herein, providing the pressure zone includes: providing a persistent non-homogeneous clamping system in the associated harvester by connecting the multiple wrap frame roller members to the frame structure of the associated wrap floor assembly at a position relative to the multiple undercarriage roller members to move with the associated wrap floor assembly to cause the non-homogeneous pressure zone to be formed thereby: between the multiple undercarriage roller members and the multiple wrap frame roller members when the associated wrap floor assembly is set in a lowered position relative to the undercarriage; between the multiple undercarriage roller members and the associated wrap floor belt of the associated wrap floor assembly when the associated wrap floor assembly is set in a raised position relative to the undercarriage; and between the multiple undercarriage roller members and the combination of the multiple wrap frame roller members and the associated wrap floor belt at a transition structure between the lowered position and the raised position when the associated wrap floor assembly is set relative to the undercarriage of the associated harvester, wherein the multiple undercarriage roller members are biased toward the associated wrap floor assembly relative to the undercarriage of the associated harvester.

[0025] In any of the retrofit embodiments herein, providing the plurality of wrap frame roller members comprises: providing a plurality of unidirectionally rotatable wrap frame roller members; and connecting the plurality of unidirectionally rotatable wrap frame roller members to the frame structure of the associated wrap floor assembly. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] The above-mentioned aspects of the present disclosure and the manner of obtaining them will become more apparent, and the present disclosure itself will be better understood, through the following description of embodiments of the present disclosure with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0027] Figure 1It is a side view of a cotton harvester.

[0028] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional side view of a circular module forming machine.

[0029] Figure 3 Is a partial perspective view of the wrapped component.

[0030] Figure 4 is a partial side view of the base plate of the wrap assembly in a first position.

[0031] Figure 5 is a partial side view of the bottom plate of the wrap assembly in the second position.

[0032] Figure 6 is a side elevation view of a heterogeneous clamping system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0033] Figure 7 According to an exemplary embodiment Figure 6 Angled elevation view of the heterogeneous clamping system.

[0034] Figure 8 According to an exemplary embodiment Figure 6 Angled elevation view of the offset portion of the persistent anisotropic clamping system.

[0035] Fig. 9 is a partial cross-sectional side view of a round module forming machine 400 according to another exemplary embodiment.

[0036] Fig.10 According to another exemplary embodiment Fig. 9 An oblique partial cross-sectional side view of a circular module forming machine 400 is shown in FIG.

[0037] Fig.11 is a diagram showing a clamping system according to another exemplary embodiment. Fig. 9 An enlarged partial cross-sectional side view of portion AAA of the circular module forming machine 400 is shown in FIG.

[0038] Fig.12 is a diagram showing a non-homogeneous clamping system according to another exemplary embodiment. Fig.11 An enlarged partial cross-sectional oblique view of a portion of a circular module forming machine 400 is shown in FIG.

[0039] Fig.13 According to another exemplary embodiment Figures 9 to 12 An enlarged partial cross-sectional oblique rear view of a portion of the circular module forming machine 400 is shown in FIG.

[0040] Fig.14is a side elevation view of an offset portion of a non-homogeneous crimping system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0041] Fig.15 is a diagram showing a non-homogeneous clamping system according to another exemplary embodiment. Fig.11 and Fig.12 An enlarged partial cross-sectional side view of a portion of a circular module forming machine 400 is shown in FIG.

[0042] Fig.16 is a flow chart illustrating a method of retrofitting a crimping system to provide a durable anisotropic crimping system in an associated wrap floor assembly according to an exemplary embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] The claimed subject matter is now described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals are generally used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for the purpose of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the claimed subject matter. However, it may be apparent that the claimed subject matter may be practiced without these specific details.

[0044] Figure 1 A conventional harvester 10 is illustrated in accordance with an embodiment. The illustrated harvester 10 is a cotton harvester 15. Alternatively, the harvester 10 may be any type of working machine that utilizes a wrapping assembly.

[0045] The harvester 10 includes a chassis 20. The chassis 20 is supported by front wheels 25 and rear wheels 30. The harvester 10 is adapted to be moved across a field 35 to harvest cotton or other crops. An operator station 40 is supported by the chassis 20. A power module 45 may be supported below the chassis 20. Water, lubricant, and fuel tanks, generally indicated at 50, may be supported on the chassis 20.

[0046] The harvesting structure 55 is operably connected to the chassis 20. The illustrated harvesting structure 55 is configured to remove cotton from the field 35. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the harvesting structure 55 is configured to remove other crops. An air duct system 60 is operably connected to the harvesting structure 55. A hopper 65 is operably connected to the air duct system 60. The hopper 65 is configured to receive cotton or other crops from the harvesting structure 55 via the air duct system 60. A feeder 70 is operably connected to the chassis 20. The feeder 70 is configured to receive cotton or other crops from the hopper 65. The feeder 70 includes a plurality of rollers 75 configured to compress the cotton or other crops and transfer the cotton or other crops to a circular module former 80. As shown, the module former 80 is generally supported by the chassis 20.

[0047] Although the round module maker 80 is shown and described as part of the cotton harvester 15, the present disclosure is not limited to such application of the module maker. More specifically, other embodiments contemplated for use in the present disclosure include, but are not limited to, pull-type round balers. A pull-type round baler may not include the chassis, header, air system, and other components shown on the cotton harvester 15. In contrast, a rear-pull round baler may have a trailer, wheels, and a crop picking assembly coupled to the round module maker. Those skilled in the relevant art understand how the teachings of the present disclosure may be applied to any round type baler or module maker, and the present disclosure is not limited to application to the cotton harvester 15 shown and described herein. After the round module 85 is formed and wrapped, the module handling system 90 receives the round module 85. The module handling system 90 temporarily supports the round module 85 above the ground 35 and then discharges it from the harvester 10.

[0048] refer to Figure 2 , the module forming machine 80 includes a module forming chamber 100 including a plurality of annular members in the form of a continuous belt 104 defining the circumference of the module forming chamber 100. The module forming chamber 100 is defined by a rear portion 101 and a front portion 102. Once the bale 85 ( Figure 1 ), the rear portion 101 swings outward and away from the front portion 102 to release the bale 85 to the module handling system 90.

[0049] A plurality of continuous belts 104 are supported in a side-by-side relationship across a support roller arrangement including a plurality of fixed rollers and a plurality of movable rollers. Specifically, proceeding clockwise from a chamber entrance 106 where the crop enters the module forming chamber 100, the fixed rollers include a lower drive roller 108, a first detaching roller 110, a second detaching roller 112, an upper drive roller 114, an upper front frame roller 116, an upper rear frame roller 118, an upper front door roller 120, an upper rear door roller 122, a lower rear door roller 124, and a lower front door roller 126, all of which are coupled to rotate within the round module former 80.

[0050] exist Figure 21 , a conventional pair of laterally spaced belt tensioning or rocker arms 130 are pivotally mounted to a belt tensioning arm pivot 132. A plurality of movable rollers include a first movable roller 134, a second movable roller 136, a third movable roller 138, and a fourth movable roller 140 extending between the laterally spaced belt tensioning arms 130 and having opposite ends rotatably coupled to the laterally spaced belt tensioning arms 130, respectively. As illustrated, one or more of the fixed rollers are driven to cause the plurality of continuous belts 104 to be driven, wherein the driving direction causes the incoming cotton or other crop to travel counterclockwise as illustrated and to be added as spiral layers to the growing circular module 85. As the circular module 85 expands within the module forming chamber 100, the laterally spaced belt tensioning arms 130 rotate counterclockwise until a circular module 85 having a predetermined diameter ( Figure 1 )until.

[0051] Along the rear portion of the round module former 80 may be a wrap assembly 141 that houses one or more wrap rolls 142. Figure 2 In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1 , only one wrap roll 142 is shown positioned in the wrap assembly 141. However, the wrap assembly 141 is configured to stack multiple wrap rolls 142 one above the other within the wrap roll hopper 144. The bottom-most wrap roll 142 rests on the front load rollers 146 and the rear load rollers 148. The front load rollers 146 and the rear load rollers 148 are coupled to brackets (not shown) that allow the front load rollers 146 and the rear load rollers 148 to move along a linear path toward and away from the lower wrap roller 150.

[0052] The wrap roll 142 includes a wrap material sized to cover the circular module 85 ( Figure 1 ) as the circular module 85 is formed in the chamber 100. The wrap material is transferred from the wrap roll 142 partially around the front load roller 146, between the front load roller 146 and the lower wrap roller 150, and partially around the lower wrap roller 150. The wrap is delivered to the lower front door roller 126. The lower front door roller 126 rotates around the longitudinal axis as the belt moves in the module forming chamber 100. Once the wrap material enters the module forming chamber 100 at the lower front door roller 126, the wrap material follows the continuous belt 104 around the circumference of the circular module 85 until the outer surface of the module is substantially covered with the wrap material. Then, an assembly (not specifically shown) cuts the wrap material from the wrap roll 142. Once ejected from the module forming chamber 100, the wrap material adheres to the circular module 85 to substantially maintain its form.

[0053] exist Figure 2In one aspect of the wrap assembly 141 illustrated in FIG. 1 , the wrap material can be stretched as the wrap material extends between the lower wrap roller 150 and the lower front door roller 126. More specifically, one or more of the front and rear load rollers 146, 148 and the lower wrap roller 150 are powered to feed the wrap material from the wrap roll 142 to the module forming chamber 185. Additionally, the wrap material can be clamped between the front and rear load rollers 146, 148 and the lower wrap roller 150 as the wrap material is fed from the wrap roll 142 to the module forming chamber 100.

[0054] The powered rollers 146, 148, 150 move the wrapping material toward the lower front door roller 126 at a feed speed. The feed speed may be slightly less than the mating circular module 85 ( Figure 1 ) rotation speed. In one non-limiting example, the circular module includes a circumference of 23 feet, and thus requires approximately 23 linear feet of wrap material per rotation. However, in one embodiment, the wrap assembly 141 has a feed speed of only 22 linear feet per rotation. In this embodiment, as the wrap material is transferred from the wrap roll 142 to the module forming chamber 100, the wrap material is stretched as it moves between the lower wrap roller 150 and the lower front door roller 126.

[0055] Stretching the wrapping material as it transitions from the wrapping assembly 141 to the module forming chamber 100 provides tightly packed circular modules 85 with a high density, and thus transports large quantities of harvested crops. In addition, the wrapping material compresses the circular modules 85 so that they maintain the correct form. Properly covering the outer surface of the circular modules 85 also limits or inhibits moisture from penetrating into the outer surface of the circular modules 85. It is important that the wrapping material is evenly distributed around the outer surface of the circular modules 85, and that the wrapping material does not experience misfeeding. Otherwise, the circular modules 85 may lose their form / shape, thereby causing them to potentially fall apart, become soaked with water when in the field, etc.

[0056] In operation, the harvester 10 is driven through the field 35 to harvest cotton or other crops. The illustrated harvesting structure 55 picks cotton from the cotton plants in the field 35. Alternatively, the harvesting structure 55 strips the cotton from the cotton plants. The cotton is transferred to the hopper 65 via the air duct system 60. The hopper 65 holds the cotton until a predetermined cotton level is reached and then transfers the cotton to the feeder 70. In an exemplary embodiment, for each round module 85 produced, the hopper 65 transfers the cotton to the feeder 70 approximately four times. When the feeder 70 receives the cotton, a plurality of rollers 75 are activated to compress the cotton. The compressed cotton is transferred to the round module forming machine 80.

[0057] After the round module maker 80 receives the compressed cotton, a plurality of belts 104 rotate the cotton into round modules 85. After the round module maker 80 receives enough cotton from the feeder 70, the round modules are wrapped and the round modules 85 are ejected onto the module handling system 90. The module handling system 90 supports the round modules 85 and then discharges them from the harvester 10.

[0058] The wrap floor assembly 160 is partially positioned between the lower wrap roller 150 and the front door roller 126. In various embodiments, the wrap floor assembly 160 includes a plurality of endless members 162, for example, a plurality of continuous wrap floor belts 163 or the like positioned thereon. The wrap floor belts 163 and the wrap floor assembly 160 guide the wrap material partially from the wrap roll 142 to the lower front door roller 126 and ultimately into the module forming chamber 100. As will be described in more detail below, the wrap floor assembly 160 can be moved between a lowered or disengaged configuration relative to a portion of the module former 80 as typically supported by the chassis 20 and a raised or engaged configuration relative to a portion of the module former 80 as typically supported by the chassis 20.

[0059] Although any mechanical, electromechanical and / or hydraulic / mechanical system may be used to move the wrap floor assembly 160 between a lowered or disengaged configuration and a raised or engaged configuration relative to portions of the module builder 80, such as Figure 3 As further illustrated in FIG. 1 , however, the four-bar linkage 170 may be operably connected to the wrap floor assembly 160. Figure 2 The four-bar linkage 170 is configured to adjust the position of the package bottom plate assembly 160 relative to the front door roller 126 for guiding the package (not shown) through the front door roller 126 and around the circular module 85 being formed. Figure 4 and moves to the first position shown in FIG. Figure 5 The second position is shown in FIG. Figure 4 In the embodiment, the wrap floor assembly 160 is spaced apart from the door roller 126 and is Figure 5 In the embodiment of the present invention, the wrap base is moved closer to the door roller 126 so that the door roller 126 can guide the wrap around the bale being formed. Figure 4 The wrap floor assembly 160 in the first position illustrated in FIG. 1 corresponds to a lowered or disengaged configuration relative to the portion of the module builder 80 as normally supported by the chassis 20 and is disposed as shown in FIG. Figure 5 The wrap floor assembly 160 in the second position illustrated in corresponds to a raised or engaged configuration relative to the portion of the module builder 80 as generally supported by the chassis 20 .

[0060] In these Figure 4 and Figure 5 The four-bar linkage 170 is not shown in the figure. However, by comparing the differences in the relative positions of the various mechanisms, it will be understood and observed that when Figure 4 The first position (lowered) shown in FIG. Figure 5 In the second position (raised) shown in FIG. 1 , the wrap floor assembly 160 is vertically (eg, vertically) relative to the module forming machine 80 as generally supported by the chassis 20. Figure 4 and Figure 5 upward) and forward (as seen in Figure 4 and Figure 5 By comparing the differences in the relative positions of various mechanisms, we can further understand and observe that when we move from Figure 5 The second position (elevated) shown in FIG. Figure 4 In the first position (lowered) shown in FIG. 1 , the wrap floor assembly 160 is both downward and rearward (eg, relative to the module forming machine 80 as generally supported by the chassis 20) . Figure 4 and Figure 5 to the right as seen in the figure.

[0061] The wrap floor assembly 160 includes a frame structure 172 supporting a floor 174 over which or through which a wrap floor belt 163 moves. A guide rod structure 176 is operably connected to the frame structure 172 and is rotatably fixed relative to the door roller 126. The guide rod structure 176 includes a shaft 178 extending from one side of the module forming chamber 100 to the other side of the module forming chamber 100 and is substantially equal to or greater than the width of the module 85 formed in the chamber 100. In other embodiments, the shaft 178 includes a hollow or solid square tube. Other configurations of the shaft 178 are contemplated. A plurality of rods 180 are fixedly coupled to the shaft 178. Each of the rods 180 includes a bend that guides the free end of the rod 180 toward the door roller 126. Each of the rods 180 extends generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the shaft 178, which extends along the rotational axis of the door roller 126. Other embodiments are contemplated and include substantially straight rods 180. In the illustrated figures, the rods 180 are regularly spaced apart so that each of the rods has an equal amount of space between adjacent rods. Other spacing of the rods is possible as needed or desired.

[0062] The wrap floor guide 184 is positioned along the floor 174 and includes a plurality of extensions 186 extending from the floor 174. In various embodiments, the extensions 186 are formed as part of the floor 174 or as separate portions fixedly coupled to the floor 174. Each of the extensions 186 includes a bend that guides the free end of the extension 186 downwardly and away from the door roller 126. Other embodiments are contemplated. In the illustrated figures, the extensions 186 are regularly spaced apart so that there is an equal amount of space between each of the extensions relative to adjacent extensions. Other spacings of the extensions are contemplated.

[0063] like Figure 4 As shown in FIG. 1 , in the first position of the base plate 174, a gap 190 is located or otherwise formed between the base plate 174 and the belt 104. Figure 5 As shown in FIG. 1 , as the four-bar linkage 170 moves the base plate 174 closer to the belt 104, the gap 190 decreases in size. Figure 4 In this condition, the wrap moves from roll 142 along the length of base plate 174 and toward roller 126 in response to the movement of rollers 146, 148, and 150. As the leading edge of the wrap moves toward the end of base plate 174, the wrap reaches a transition location 192 between extensions 186 and guide structure 176. Mat 200 is operably connected to base plate 160 and guide structure 176. Mat 200 guides the wrap across transition location 192 and provides a support surface for the wrap as the leading edge of the wrap moves from base plate 160 to roller 126.

[0064] Figure 6 1 is a side elevation view of a non-homogeneous clamping system 300 for use with an associated wrap floor assembly 160 that can be lowered relative to a chassis 20 supporting a module former 80 of an associated harvester 10. Figure 4 ) and increase ( Figure 5 ) locations. Specifically, Figure 6 The diagram shows a configuration corresponding to the associated wrap floor assembly 160 being in a lowered position relative to the chassis 20. Figure 4 ) position of the configuration of the subject clamping system 300.

[0065] The clamping system 300 generally includes a plurality of wrap frame roller members 320 and a plurality of chassis roller members 330. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of wrap frame roller members 320 are connected to the frame structure 172 of the associated wrap floor assembly 160. In this manner, the plurality of wrap frame roller members 320 can be moved together with the associated wrap floor assembly 160 relative to the chassis 20 of the associated harvester 10 ( Figure 4 ) position and the height of the chassis 20 relative to the associated harvester 10 ( Figure 5 ) positions.

[0066] In another embodiment, the plurality of wrap frame roller members 320 are connected to the frame structure 172 of the associated wrap floor assembly 160 using an offset shaft member or the like, wherein the plurality of wrap frame roller members 320 are carried on a shaft that is biased, for example, by a spring or the like acting against the shaft, and the shaft extends in an elongated groove or slot provided in the frame structure 172. In this manner, the plurality of wrap frame roller members 320 can first be positioned relative to the frame structure 172 approximately as shown in FIG. Figure 6 and Figure 7 10 and can also be moved in a vertical direction as seen in the figure, and can also be moved together with the associated wrap floor assembly 160 in a lowered position relative to the chassis 20 of the associated harvester 10 ( Figure 4 ) position and the height of the chassis 20 relative to the associated harvester 10 ( Figure 5 By biasing the wrap frame roller members 320 in this manner, it can help coordinate or otherwise synchronize contact between the wrap frame roller members 320 and the plurality of chassis roller members 330 for moving the associated wrap floor assembly 160 between the lowered position and the raised position relative to the chassis 20 of the associated harvester 10.

[0067] Preferably, the plurality of chassis roller members 330 are arranged relative to the chassis 20 (eg, Figure 6 160 (as seen downwardly in FIG. 1 ).

[0068] According to an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of wrap frame roller members 320 are connected to the frame structure 172 at a position relative to the plurality of chassis roller members 330 to facilitate the formation of a nip for the associated wrap floor assembly 160 disposed in a lowered position relative to the chassis 20. That is, a first nip is formed between the plurality of chassis roller members 330 and the plurality of wrap frame roller members 320 for the associated wrap floor assembly 160 disposed in a lowered position relative to the chassis 20. The nip according to an exemplary embodiment can be accomplished by lateral spacing of appropriate sections between the plurality of wrap frame roller members 320 and the plurality of chassis roller members 330. That is, according to an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of wrap frame roller members 320 and the plurality of chassis roller members 330 can be substantially spaced apart in a horizontal direction by a selected distance, such as Figure 6 and Figure 7 As seen in the figure, a non-homogeneous pressure zone is achieved.

[0069] According to an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of wrap frame roller members 320 are connected to the frame structure 172 at a position relative to the plurality of chassis roller members 330 to cause a non-uniform nip to be formed for the associated wrap floor assembly 160 to be disposed in a lowered position relative to the chassis 20 and for the associated wrap floor assembly 160 to be disposed in an elevated position relative to the chassis 20. That is, for the associated wrap floor assembly 160 to be disposed in a lowered position relative to the chassis 20, a first nip is formed between the plurality of chassis roller members 330 and the plurality of wrap frame roller members 320. Additionally, for the associated wrap floor assembly 160 to be disposed in an elevated position relative to the chassis, a second nip is formed between the plurality of chassis roller members 330 and the associated wrap floor belt 163 of the associated wrap floor assembly 160. The non-uniform nip according to an exemplary embodiment can be accomplished by lateral spacing of appropriate sections between the plurality of wrap frame roller members 320 and the plurality of chassis roller members 330. That is, according to an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of wrap frame roller members 320 and the plurality of chassis roller members 330 may be substantially spaced apart in the horizontal direction by a selected distance, such as Figure 6 and Figure 7 As seen in the figure, a non-homogeneous pressure zone is achieved.

[0070] According to another exemplary embodiment, the plurality of wrap frame roller members 320 are connected to the frame structure 172 at a position relative to the plurality of chassis roller members 330 to cause a persistent non-homogeneous nip to form for the associated wrap floor assembly 160 to be disposed in a lowered position relative to the chassis 20, for the associated wrap floor assembly 160 to be disposed in a raised position relative to the chassis 20, and for the associated wrap floor assembly 160 to be disposed and moved between the lowered position and the raised position relative to the chassis. That is, for the associated wrap floor assembly 160 to be disposed in a lowered position relative to the chassis 20, a first nip is formed between the plurality of chassis roller members 330 and the plurality of wrap frame roller members 320. Additionally, for the associated wrap floor assembly 160 to be disposed in a raised position relative to the chassis, a second nip is formed between the plurality of chassis roller members 330 and the associated wrap floor belt 163 of the associated wrap floor assembly 160. Additionally, for an associated wrap floor assembly 160 disposed at a transition configuration between a lowered position and a raised position relative to the chassis of an associated harvester, a third nip is formed between the plurality of chassis roller members 330 and the combination of the plurality of wrap frame roller members 320 and the associated wrap floor belt 163. A persistent non-homogeneous nip according to an exemplary embodiment may be accomplished by lateral spacing of appropriate sections between the plurality of wrap frame roller members 320 and the plurality of chassis roller members 330. That is, according to an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of wrap frame roller members 320 and the plurality of chassis roller members 330 may be substantially spaced apart in the horizontal direction by a selected distance, such as Figure 6 and Figure 7 As seen in the figure, a persistent non-homogeneous pressure zone is achieved.

[0071] The clamping system 300 according to the above exemplary embodiment is durable for all positions of the associated wrap floor assembly 160 relative to the chassis of the associated harvester. That is, the clamping system is durable because a series of uninterrupted press zones are included when permitting the associated wrap floor assembly 160 to move from a lowered position to a raised position, from a raised position to a lowered position, and between the lowered and raised positions relative to the chassis of the associated harvester. The clamping system 300 according to the exemplary embodiment is non-homogeneous because a series of uninterrupted different press zones are sequentially formed when permitting the associated wrap floor assembly 160 to move from a lowered position to a raised position, from a raised position to a lowered position, and between the lowered and raised positions relative to the chassis of the associated harvester. In general, a continuous pressure zone is provided, wherein the continuous (lasting) pressure zone is formed by at least one of: a plurality of chassis roller members 330 offset against a plurality of wrap frame roller members 320, a plurality of chassis roller members 330 offset against an associated wrap floor belt 163, or a plurality of chassis roller members 330 offset against a combination of a plurality of wrap frame roller members 320 and an associated wrap floor belt 163.

[0072] The clamping system 300 is permanent. This holds the wrap material securely in place. Additionally, to help prevent wind from encouraging withdrawal movement of the wrap material through the feed system rearward (away from the chamber inlet 106 and toward the wrap assembly 141), the plurality of wrap frame roller members 320 are unidirectionally rotatably connected to the frame structure of the associated wrap floor assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of wrap frame roller members 320 are prevented from rotating clockwise, as shown in FIG. Figure 6 In an exemplary embodiment, a ratchet and pawl mechanism (not shown) may be used. Other equivalent mechanical and / or electromechanical systems may also be used.

[0073] Figure 7 According to an exemplary embodiment Figure 6 300. The illustration illustrates a plurality of chassis roller members 330 biased against and in contact with a plurality of wrap frame roller members 320. When the subject system is in use, the wrap material is securely held in the nip between the plurality of chassis roller members 330 and the plurality of wrap frame roller members 320. However, the wrap material is not shown so as not to obscure the mechanism of the subject crimping system 300.

[0074] Continue to refer Figure 7 As can be seen, the plurality of chassis roller members 330 are substantially wider than the plurality of wrap frame roller members 320. In this manner, a portion of the plurality of chassis roller members 330 (eg, Figure 73) is configured to selectively physically contact the plurality of wrap frame roller members 320, and another portion of the plurality of chassis roller members 330 (such as Figure 7 , as seen on the right side, is configured to selectively physically contact an associated wrap floor belt 163.

[0075] It should be understood that in Figure 6 and Figure 7 , the associated wrap floor assembly 160 is disposed in a lowered position relative to the chassis 20 of the associated harvester 10. Thus, portions of the plurality of chassis roller members 330 (e.g. Figure 7 30) is in physical contact with the plurality of wrap frame roller members 320. For an associated wrap floor assembly 160 disposed in a raised position relative to the chassis 20 of an associated harvester 10, portions of the plurality of chassis roller members 330 (such as Figure 7 16 and 17. The wrapping bottom plate belt 162 is in physical contact with the associated wrapping bottom plate belt 163 (not shown).

[0076] The clamping system 300 generally includes a plurality of wrap frame roller members 320 and a plurality of chassis roller members 330. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of wrap frame roller members 320 are connected to the frame structure 172 of the associated wrap floor assembly 160. In this manner, the plurality of wrap frame roller members 320 can be moved together with the associated wrap floor assembly 160 relative to the chassis 20 of the associated harvester 10 ( Figure 4 ) position and the height of the chassis 20 relative to the associated harvester 10 ( Figure 5 ) positions.

[0077] Figure 8 According to an exemplary embodiment Figure 6 and Figure 7 An oblique elevation view of the offset portion of the persistent anisotropic clamping system 300. Referring to this figure and continuing to refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 , a plurality of chassis roller members 330 are carried on an arm member 340 extending from a common support shaft 350. A bracket 360 is attached to the common support shaft 350 and provides an attachment point for a spring member 370 which is attached on one end to the bracket 360 and on the other end to a portion of the chassis 20 of the harvester 10. In this manner, the springs bias the common support shaft 350, and in turn the arm member 340, and then further in turn the plurality of chassis roller members 330 toward the associated wrap floor assembly 160.

[0078] It should be understood that for example Figure 6 and Figure 7In the wrap floor assembly 160 shown in the lowered or disengaged position, the wrap floor belt 163 is typically stationary and, as such, undesirable frictional forces may be induced in the wrap material as the wrap material is pulled into the wrap chamber if the plurality of chassis roller members 330 are biased against the wrap floor belt 163 to form a pressure zone for holding the wrap material for the associated wrap floor assembly 160 that is set in the lowered or disengaged position. Some types of wrap material may be more sensitive to these frictional forces. In the case of pre-separated lengths of wrap material that may be staggered together at overlapping joints, these frictional forces may potentially be sufficient tension to prematurely separate the joints and potentially result in misfeeding, wasted product, etc. However, according to the exemplary embodiments herein, the pressure zone formed for the wrap floor assembly 160 that is set in the lowered or disengaged position is between the plurality of chassis roller members 330 and the freely rotatable wrap frame roller member 320, as shown in the drawings. Figure 6 and Figure 7 As a result, the friction force is much lower than the tension required to prematurely separate the joint and potentially cause misfeeding, wasted product, etc.

[0079] Fig. 9 is a partial cross-sectional side view of a round module forming machine 400 according to another exemplary embodiment. Fig.10 According to another exemplary embodiment Fig. 9 An oblique partial cross-sectional side view of a circular module forming machine 400 is shown in FIG. Fig.11 According to another exemplary embodiment Fig. 9 An enlarged partial cross-sectional side view of portion AAA of the round module former 400 is shown in FIG. Along the rear portion of the round module former 400 may be a wrap assembly 410 that houses one or more wrap rolls (not shown).

[0080] In various embodiments, the wrap floor assembly 420 includes a plurality of annular members 422, for example, a plurality of continuous wrap floor belts 424 or the like located thereon. The wrap floor belts 424 and the wrap floor assembly 420 guide the wrap material partially from the wrap roll to the lower front door roller 126, and finally guide it into the module forming chamber of the module forming machine 400. As described, the wrap floor assembly 410 can be moved between a lowering or disengaging configuration relative to a portion of the module forming machine 400 as usually supported by the chassis of the harvester and a raising or engaging configuration relative to a portion of the module forming machine 400 as usually supported by the chassis of the harvester. However, any mechanical, electromechanical and / or hydraulic / mechanical system can be used to move the wrap floor assembly 410 between a lowering or disengaging configuration and a raising or engaging configuration relative to a portion of the module forming machine 400.

[0081] Fig.12 According to another exemplary embodiment Fig.11 An enlarged partial cross-sectional oblique view of a portion of a circular module forming machine 400 is shown in FIG. Fig.13 According to another exemplary embodiment Figures 9 to 12 An enlarged partial cross-sectional oblique rear view of a portion of the round module forming machine 400 is shown in . These figures show a crimping system 500 according to another exemplary embodiment.

[0082] The clamping system 500 generally includes a plurality of wrap frame roller members 520 and a plurality of chassis roller members 530. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of wrap frame roller members 520 are connected to the frame structure 572 of the associated wrap floor assembly 420. In this manner, the plurality of wrap frame roller members 520 can be moved with the associated wrap floor assembly 420 between a lowered position relative to the chassis of the associated harvester 10 and a raised position relative to the chassis of the associated harvester 10.

[0083] In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of wrap frame roller members 520 are unidirectionally rotatably connected to the frame structure of the associated wrap floor assembly. In the exemplary embodiment, the plurality of wrap frame roller members 520 are prevented from rotating clockwise, such as Figure 11 to Figure 13 In an exemplary embodiment, a ratchet and pawl mechanism 550 may be used. Other equivalent mechanical and / or electromechanical systems may also be used. In an exemplary embodiment, as Figure 11 to Figure 13 As seen in , the plurality of wrap frame roller members 520 are free to rotate counterclockwise and are preferably carried on low friction bearings or the like to help facilitate free, low friction rotation. The use of unidirectionally rotatable wrap frame roller members 520 helps prevent the wrap material from moving backwards (away from the chamber entrance and toward the wrap assembly) through the feed system. Otherwise, conditions (e.g., wind) may cause undesirable backward movement of the wrap material through the feed system, and the unidirectionally rotatable wrap frame roller members 520 help prevent such movement.

[0084] It should be understood that for example Fig.11 and Fig.12In the wrap floor assembly 420 shown in the lowered or disengaged position, the wrap floor belt 424 is typically stationary, and as such, undesirable frictional forces may be induced in the wrap material as the wrap material is pulled into the wrap chamber if the plurality of chassis roller members 530 are biased against the wrap floor belt 424 to form a pressure zone for holding the wrap material for the wrap floor assembly 420 that is set in the lowered or disengaged position. Some types of wrap material may be more sensitive to these frictional forces. In the case of pre-separated lengths of wrap material that may be staggered together at overlapping joints, these frictional forces may potentially be sufficient tension to prematurely separate the joints and potentially result in misfeeding, wasted product, and the like. However, according to the exemplary embodiments herein, the pressure zone formed for the wrap floor assembly 420 that is set in the lowered or disengaged position is between the plurality of chassis roller members 530 and the wrap frame roller member 520 that is prevented from rotating clockwise but is free to rotate counterclockwise, as shown in FIG. Figure 11 to Figure 13 As a result, the friction force is much lower than the tension required to prematurely separate the joint and potentially cause misfeeding, wasted product, etc.

[0085] The non-homogeneous nip according to an exemplary embodiment may be accomplished by lateral spacing of appropriate segments between the plurality of wrap frame roller members 520 and the plurality of chassis roller members 530. That is, according to an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of wrap frame roller members 520 and the plurality of chassis roller members 530 may be substantially spaced apart in the horizontal direction by a selected distance, such as Figure 11 to Figure 13 For the non-homogeneous nip according to the exemplary embodiment, a first nip is formed between the plurality of chassis roller members 530 and the plurality of chassis frame roller members 520 for the associated wrap floor assembly 420 being disposed in a lowered position relative to the chassis, and a second nip is formed between the plurality of chassis roller members 530 and the associated wrap floor belt 424 of the associated wrap floor assembly 420 for the associated wrap floor assembly 420 being disposed in a raised position relative to the chassis.

[0086] The persistent non-homogeneous nip according to an exemplary embodiment can be accomplished by lateral spacing of appropriate segments between the plurality of wrap frame roller members 520 and the plurality of chassis roller members 530. That is, according to an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of wrap frame roller members 520 and the plurality of chassis roller members 530 can be substantially spaced apart in the horizontal direction by a selected distance, such as Figure 11 to Figure 13For the persistent non-homogeneous press zone according to the exemplary embodiment, for the associated wrap floor assembly 420 being set in a lowered position relative to the chassis, a first press zone is formed between the plurality of chassis roller members 530 and the plurality of wrap frame roller members 520, for the associated wrap floor assembly 420 being set in a raised position relative to the chassis, a second press zone is formed between the plurality of chassis roller members 530 and the associated wrap floor belt 424 of the associated wrap floor assembly 420, and for the associated wrap floor assembly 420 being set at a transition configuration between the lowered position and the raised position relative to the chassis of the associated harvester, a third press zone is formed between the plurality of chassis roller members 530 and the combination of the plurality of wrap frame roller members 520 and the associated wrap floor belt 424.

[0087] Fig.14 is a side elevation view of an offset portion of a heterogeneous clamping system according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Fig.11 and Fig.12 , and the plurality of chassis roller members 330, 530 are carried on arm members 340, 540 extending from a common support shaft. The arm members 340, 540 are directed rearwardly relative to the module former, and thus the plurality of chassis roller members 330, 530 are disposed a distance D closer to the rear of the module former than they would be if the arm members 340, 540 were directed rearwardly relative to the module former. This makes it more efficient and much easier for an operator working at the rear of the harvester to thread the new leading end of the wrapping material into the nip.

[0088] Fig.15 According to another exemplary embodiment Fig.11 and Fig.12 An enlarged partial cross-sectional side view of a portion of the circular module forming machine 400 is shown in FIG. It should be understood that Fig.12 The illustration in FIG. 1 illustrates a clamping system for an exemplary embodiment of a wrap floor assembly 160 of an associated harvester disposed in a lowered or disengaged position, and Fig.15 The illustration in illustrates a clamping system of an exemplary embodiment for a wrap floor assembly 160 of an associated harvester disposed in a raised or engaged position.

[0089] It should be further understood that Fig.12In the embodiment of the present invention, for the wrap floor assembly 160 of the associated harvester disposed in the lowered or disengaged position, a nip is created between the wrap frame roller member 520 and the chassis roller member 530, wherein the associated wrap material can be retained by the nip, and wherein the nip permits the wrap material to be moved toward the module former 400 (e.g., Fig.12 to the left as seen in the figure) to move freely into the harvester and prevent the wrapping material from moving away from the module forming machine (as seen in the figure) Fig.12 This helps minimize misfeeding of wrap material, wasted time, wasted product, etc.

[0090] It should be further understood that Fig.15 In the embodiment of the present invention, for the wrap floor assembly 160 of the associated harvester disposed in the raised or engaged position, a nip is created between the chassis roller member 530 and the wrap floor belt 424, wherein the associated wrap material can be retained by the nip, and wherein the nip helps to move the wrap material toward the module former 400 (e.g., the module former 400) through the interaction between the moving wrap floor belt 424 and the wrap material retained in the nip formed with the chassis roller member 530. Fig.15 The harvester is fed with the material to the left (as seen in the figure).

[0091] By comparing the differences in the relative positions of various institutions, we can further understand and observe that when we look at Fig.12 The first position (lowered) shown in FIG. Fig.15 In the second position (raised) shown in FIG. 1 , the wrap floor assembly 160 is vertically (eg, vertically) relative to the module forming machine 80 as generally supported by the chassis 20. Fig.12 and Fig.15 upward) and forward (as seen in Fig.12 and Fig.15 In this second position, a first nip is created or otherwise formed between the chassis roller member 530 and the wrap floor belt 424. By comparing the differences in the relative positions of the various mechanisms, it is further understood and observed that when the relative positions of the various mechanisms are compared, the first nip is created or otherwise formed between the chassis roller member 530 and the wrap floor belt 424. Fig.15 The second position (elevated) shown in FIG. Fig.12 In the first position (lowered) shown in FIG. 1 , the wrap floor assembly 160 is both downward and rearward (eg, relative to the module forming machine 80 as generally supported by the chassis 20) . Fig.12 and Fig.15 In this first position, a second nip is created or otherwise formed between the wrap frame roller member 520 and the chassis roller member 530. Thus, the nip system of the exemplary embodiment is non-homogeneous because it is formed from different components.

[0092] Fig.16 6 is a flow chart illustrating a method 600 of retrofitting a clamping system to provide a non-homogeneous clamping system in an associated wrap floor assembly according to an exemplary embodiment. Referring now to the figure, the method 600 provides a non-homogeneous clamping system in an associated wrap floor assembly that is movable between a lowered position and a raised position relative to a chassis of a module former supporting an associated harvester. According to the method 600 of the exemplary embodiment, a plurality of wrap frame roller members are provided at 610. Additionally, and at 620, a plurality of wrap frame roller members are connected to a frame structure of an associated wrap floor assembly, wherein the plurality of wrap frame roller members are movable with the associated wrap floor assembly relative to the chassis of the associated harvester between a lowered position and a raised position. According to the method, a plurality of wrap frame roller members are connected to the frame structure at a position relative to a plurality of chassis roller members so as to set the associated wrap floor assembly in a lowered position relative to the chassis, causing a pressure zone to be formed between the plurality of chassis roller members and the plurality of wrap frame roller members, wherein the plurality of chassis roller members are biased toward the associated wrap floor assembly relative to the chassis of the associated harvester.

[0093] In any of the embodiments herein, and at 620, a plurality of wrap frame roller members are connected to the frame structure of the associated wrap floor assembly at a position relative to a plurality of chassis roller members to cause a non-uniform pressure zone to be formed thereby: for the associated wrap floor assembly to be set in a lowered position relative to the chassis, between the plurality of chassis roller members and the plurality of wrap frame roller members; and for the associated wrap floor assembly to be set in a raised position relative to the chassis of the associated harvester, between the plurality of chassis roller members and the associated wrap floor belt of the associated wrap floor assembly, wherein the plurality of chassis roller members are biased toward the associated wrap floor assembly relative to the chassis of the associated harvester.

[0094] In any of the embodiments herein, and at 620, a plurality of wrap frame roller members are connected to the frame structure at a position relative to a plurality of chassis roller members to cause a non-uniform pressure zone to be formed thereby: between a plurality of chassis roller members and a plurality of wrap frame roller members for an associated wrap floor assembly set in a lowered position relative to the chassis; between a plurality of chassis roller members and an associated wrap floor belt of an associated wrap floor assembly for an associated wrap floor assembly set in a raised position relative to the chassis; and between a plurality of chassis roller members and a combination of a plurality of wrap frame roller members and an associated wrap floor belt at a transition structure between a lowered position and a raised position for an associated wrap floor assembly set relative to the chassis of an associated harvester, wherein the plurality of chassis roller members are biased toward the associated wrap floor assembly relative to the chassis of the associated harvester.

[0095] In any of the embodiments herein, providing a plurality of wrap frame roll members includes obtaining the plurality of wrap frame roll members from an associated source of wrap frame roll members.

[0096] In any of the embodiments herein, obtaining a plurality of wrap frame roll members from an associated wrap frame roll member source includes obtaining a plurality of unidirectionally rotatable wrap frame roll members from an associated wrap frame roll member source.

[0097] In any of the embodiments herein, providing a plurality of wrap frame roller members includes providing the plurality of wrap frame roller members to an associated end user of an associated harvester for the associated end user to connect the plurality of wrap frame roller members to a frame structure of an associated wrap bottom plate assembly at a position relative to the plurality of chassis roller members to facilitate formation of a pressure zone thereby.

[0098] In any of the embodiments herein, providing a plurality of wrap frame roller members to an associated end user of an associated harvester includes providing a plurality of unidirectionally rotatable wrap frame roller members to an associated end user of an associated harvester, for enabling the associated end user to connect the plurality of unidirectionally rotatable wrap frame roller members to the frame structure of the associated wrap bottom plate assembly at the position relative to the plurality of chassis roller members to facilitate formation of a pressure zone thereby.

[0099] Without in any way limiting the scope, interpretation, or application of the claims appearing below, a technical effect of one or more of the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein is the use of intelligent speed control to allow the vehicle to operate at maximum speed rather than prohibitively limiting speed using an across-the-board worst-case speed limit even when track temperature is not an issue. Another technical effect of one or more of the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein is a sensing and warning system for track misalignment.

[0100] In addition, although the present disclosure has been shown and described with respect to one or more embodiments, other technical personnel in the art will think of equivalent changes and modifications based on the reading and understanding of this specification and the accompanying drawings. The present disclosure includes all such modifications and changes, and is limited only by the scope of the appended claims. In particular, with respect to the various functions performed by the components (e.g., elements, resources, etc.) described above, unless otherwise indicated, the terms used to describe such components are intended to correspond to any components that perform the specified functions (e.g., functionally equivalent) of the described components even if they are not structurally equivalent to the disclosed structures that perform the functions in the exemplary embodiments illustrated in this article of the present disclosure. In addition, although specific features of the present disclosure may have been disclosed only with respect to one of several embodiments, such features may be combined with one or more other features of other embodiments, as may be desirable and advantageous for any given or specific application.

[0101] As used herein, "such as" is used for a non-exhaustive list of examples, and has the same meaning as alternative illustrative phrases such as "including," "including but not limited to," and "including without limitation."

[0102] As used herein, unless otherwise limited or modified, a list of elements separated by conjunction terms (e.g., "and") and also preceded by the phrases "one or more of" or "at least one of," "at least," or similar phrases indicates a configuration or arrangement that potentially includes the individual elements of the list or any combination thereof. For example, "at least one of A, B, and C" and "one or more of A, B, and C" each indicate the possibility of only A, only B, only C, or any combination of two or more of A, B, and C (A and B; A and C; B and C; or A, B, and C).

[0103] Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, as used herein, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" are intended to include the plural forms. In addition, to the extent that the terms "including", "having", "has", "with", or variations thereof are used in the detailed description or claims, such terms are intended to specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations, elements, and / or parts, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, parts, and / or groups thereof, and are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term "comprising".

[0104] For the sake of brevity, conventional techniques and arrangements related to signal processing, data transmission, signaling, control, and other aspects of the systems disclosed herein may not be described in detail. In addition, the connecting lines shown in the various drawings contained herein are intended to represent exemplary relationships and / or connections (e.g., power connections, communications, and physical connections) between the various elements. It should be noted that many alternative or additional relationships or connections may exist in the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0105] Although the present disclosure has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and the foregoing description, such illustration and description are not restrictive in nature, and it should be understood that (multiple) illustrative embodiments have been shown and described, and it is desired to protect all changes and modifications that fall within the spirit of the present disclosure. Alternative embodiments of the present disclosure may not include all of the features described, but still benefit from at least some of the advantages of such features. Those of ordinary skill in the art can design their own embodiments that incorporate one or more of the features of the present disclosure and fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

[0106] Embodiments have been described above. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the above methods and apparatus may incorporate changes and modifications without departing from the general scope of the invention. It is intended that all such modifications and changes are included as long as they fall within the scope of the appended claims or their equivalents.

Claims

1. A clamping system (300, 500) for use with an associated wrap floor assembly (160) movable between a lowered position and a raised position relative to a chassis of a module former supporting an associated harvester, the clamping system comprising: a plurality of wrap frame roller members (320) connected to the frame structure (172) of the associated wrap floor assembly (160), wherein the plurality of wrap frame roller members (320) are movable with the associated wrap floor assembly (160) relative to the chassis of the associated harvester between the lowered position and the raised position; and a plurality of chassis roller members (330) biased relative to the chassis of the associated harvester toward the associated wrap floor assembly (160), wherein the plurality of wrap frame roller members (320) are connected to the frame structure (172) at a position relative to the plurality of chassis roller members (330) so as to form a compression zone between the plurality of chassis roller members (330) and the plurality of wrap frame roller members (320) for the associated wrap floor assembly (160) disposed in the lowered position relative to the chassis.

2. The crimping system (300, 500) according to claim 1, wherein: The plurality of wrap frame roller members (320) are connected to the frame structure (172) of the associated wrap floor assembly (160) in a unidirectionally rotatable manner.

3. The crimping system (300, 500) according to claim 1, wherein: The plurality of wrap frame roller members (320) are connected to the frame structure (172) at a position relative to the plurality of chassis roller members (330) such that: With respect to the associated wrap floor assembly (160) disposed in the lowered position relative to the chassis, forming a non-homogeneous press zone between the plurality of chassis roller members (330) and the plurality of wrap frame roller members (320); as well as With respect to the associated wrap floor assembly (160) disposed in the raised position relative to the chassis, a non-homogeneous press zone is formed between the plurality of chassis roller members (330) and an associated wrap floor belt (163) of the associated wrap floor assembly (160).

4. The crimping system (300, 500) according to claim 3, wherein: The plurality of wrap frame roller members (320) are connected to the frame structure (172) at a position relative to the plurality of chassis roller members (330) such that: With respect to the associated wrap floor assembly (160) disposed at a transition configuration between the lowered position and the raised position relative to the chassis of the associated harvester, a permanent pressure zone is formed between a combination of the plurality of wrap frame roller members (320) and the associated wrap floor belt (163) of the associated wrap floor assembly (160) and the plurality of chassis roller members (330).

5. The crimping system (300, 500) according to claim 4, wherein: The plurality of wrap frame roller members (320) are connected to the frame structure (172) of the associated wrap floor assembly (160) in a unidirectionally rotatable manner.

6. The crimping system (300, 500) according to claim 1, wherein: The plurality of wrap frame roller members (320) are connected to the frame structure (172) at a position relative to the plurality of chassis roller members (330) such that: With respect to the associated wrap floor assembly (160) disposed at a transition configuration between the lowered position and the raised position relative to the chassis of the associated harvester, a permanent pressure zone is formed between a combination of the plurality of wrap frame roller members (320) and the associated wrap floor belt (163) of the associated wrap floor assembly (160) and the plurality of chassis roller members (330).

7. The crimping system (300, 500) according to claim 6, wherein: The plurality of wrap frame roller members (320) are connected to the frame structure (172) of the associated wrap floor assembly (160) in a unidirectionally rotatable manner.

8. A permanent non-homogeneous clamping system (300, 500) for use with an associated wrap floor assembly (160) movable between a lowered position and a raised position relative to a chassis of a module former supporting an associated harvester, the clamping system comprising: a plurality of wrap frame roller members (320) connected to the frame structure (172) of the associated wrap floor assembly (160), wherein the plurality of wrap frame roller members (320) are movable with the associated wrap floor assembly (160) relative to the chassis of the associated harvester between the lowered position and the raised position; and a plurality of chassis roller members (330) biased relative to the chassis of the associated harvester toward the associated wrap floor assembly (160), wherein the plurality of wrap frame roller members (320) are connected to the frame structure (172) at a position relative to the plurality of chassis roller members (330) such that: With respect to the associated wrap floor assembly (160) disposed in the lowered position relative to the chassis, forming a persistent non-homogeneous nip between the plurality of chassis roller members (330) and the plurality of wrap frame roller members (320); for the associated wrap floor assembly (160) being disposed in the raised position relative to the chassis, forming a persistent non-homogeneous nip between the plurality of chassis roller members (330) and an associated wrap floor belt (163) of the associated wrap floor assembly (160); and With respect to the associated wrap floor assembly (160) disposed at a transition configuration between the lowered position and the raised position relative to the chassis of the associated harvester, a persistent non-homogeneous pressure zone is formed between a combination of the plurality of wrap frame roller members (320) and the associated wrap floor belt (163) and the plurality of chassis roller members (330).

9. The crimping system (300, 500) according to claim 8, wherein: The plurality of wrap frame roller members (320) are connected to the frame structure (172) of the associated wrap floor assembly (160) in a unidirectionally rotatable manner.

10. A method (600) of retrofitting an associated harvester having a wrap floor assembly movable between a lowered position and a raised position relative to a chassis supporting a module former to provide a clamping system (300, 500) in the associated harvester, the method (600) comprising: providing a plurality of wrap frame roller members (320); and connecting the plurality of wrap frame roller members (320) to the frame structure (172) of the associated wrap floor assembly (160) at a position relative to the plurality of chassis roller members (330) to enable the plurality of wrap frame roller members (320) to move with the associated wrap floor assembly (160), thereby: With the associated wrap floor assembly (160) disposed in the lowered position relative to the chassis, forming a nip between the plurality of chassis roller members (330) and the plurality of wrap frame roller members (320), wherein the plurality of chassis roller members (330) are biased relative to the chassis of the associated harvester toward the associated wrap floor assembly (160).

11. The method (600) of claim 10, wherein: Providing the plurality of wrap frame roller members (320) includes: providing a plurality of unidirectionally rotatable wrap frame roller members; and The plurality of unidirectionally rotatable wrap frame roller members are connected to the frame structure (172) of the associated wrap floor assembly (160).

12. The method (600) of claim 10, further comprising: A non-homogeneous clamping system (300, 500) is provided in the associated harvester by: connecting the plurality of wrap frame roller members (320) to the frame structure (172) of the associated wrap floor assembly (160) at a position relative to a plurality of chassis roller members (330) to enable the plurality of wrap frame roller members (320) to move with the associated wrap floor assembly (160), thereby: With respect to the associated wrap floor assembly (160) disposed in the lowered position relative to the chassis, forming a non-homogeneous press zone between the plurality of chassis roller members (330) and the plurality of wrap frame roller members (320); as well as for the associated wrap floor assembly (160) being disposed in the raised position relative to the chassis, forming a non-homogeneous nip between the plurality of chassis roller members (330) and an associated wrap floor belt (163) of the associated wrap floor assembly (160), wherein the plurality of chassis roller members (330) are biased relative to the chassis of the associated harvester toward the associated wrap floor assembly (160).

13. The method (600) of claim 12, further comprising: A persistent non-homogeneous clamping system (300, 500) is provided in the associated harvester by: connecting the plurality of wrap frame roller members (320) to the frame structure (172) of the associated wrap floor assembly (160) at a position relative to a plurality of chassis roller members (330) to enable the plurality of wrap frame roller members (320) to move with the associated wrap floor assembly (160), thereby: With respect to the associated wrap floor assembly (160) disposed in the lowered position relative to the chassis, forming a non-homogeneous press zone between the plurality of chassis roller members (330) and the plurality of wrap frame roller members (320); for the associated wrap floor assembly (160) disposed in the raised position relative to the chassis, forming a non-homogeneous nip between the plurality of chassis roller members (330) and an associated wrap floor belt (163) of the associated wrap floor assembly (160); as well as With respect to the associated wrap floor assembly (160) being disposed at a transition configuration between the lowered position and the raised position relative to the chassis of the associated harvester, a non-homogeneous press zone is formed between the combination of the plurality of wrap frame roller members (320) and the associated wrap floor belt (163) and the plurality of chassis roller members (330), wherein the plurality of chassis roller members (330) are biased relative to the chassis of the associated harvester toward the associated wrap floor assembly (160).

14. The method (600) of claim 12, wherein: Providing the plurality of wrap frame roller members (320) includes: providing a plurality of unidirectionally rotatable wrap frame roller members; and The plurality of unidirectionally rotatable wrap frame roller members are connected to the frame structure (172) of the associated wrap floor assembly (160).

15. The method (600) of claim 10, further comprising: A persistent non-homogeneous clamping system (300, 500) is provided in the associated harvester by: connecting the plurality of wrap frame roller members (320) to the frame structure (172) of the associated wrap floor assembly (160) at a position relative to a plurality of chassis roller members (330) to enable the plurality of wrap frame roller members (320) to move with the associated wrap floor assembly (160), thereby: With respect to the associated wrap floor assembly (160) disposed in the lowered position relative to the chassis, forming a non-homogeneous press zone between the plurality of chassis roller members (330) and the plurality of wrap frame roller members (320); for the associated wrap floor assembly (160) disposed in the raised position relative to the chassis, forming a non-homogeneous nip between the plurality of chassis roller members (330) and an associated wrap floor belt (163) of the associated wrap floor assembly (160); as well as With respect to the associated wrap floor assembly (160) being disposed at a transition configuration between the lowered position and the raised position relative to the chassis of the associated harvester, a non-homogeneous press zone is formed between the combination of the plurality of wrap frame roller members (320) and the associated wrap floor belt (163) and the plurality of chassis roller members (330), wherein the plurality of chassis roller members (330) are biased relative to the chassis of the associated harvester toward the associated wrap floor assembly (160).

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