Pad leveling system for conveyor system of agricultural harvester

Abstract

A mat leveling system for a conveyor system of an agricultural harvester includes a first exit roller configured to support a first belt of a pair of opposing belts. The pad leveling system also includes a second exit roller configured to support a second one of the pair of opposing belts. Further, the mat leveling system includes a first mounting assembly configured to enable movement of the first outlet roller relative to the second outlet roller and urge the first outlet roller toward the second belt to reduce variations in thickness of the mat of agricultural products; a second mounting assembly configured to enable movement of the second outlet roller relative to the first outlet roller and urge the second outlet roller toward the first belt to reduce variations in thickness of the mat of agricultural products; or a combination thereof.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 520,185, filed on August 17, 2023, entitled “MAT LEVELING SYSTEM FOR A CONVEYING SYSTEM OF AN AGRICULTURALHARVESTER,” the entire text of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Background Art

[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to a pad leveling system for a conveyor system of an agricultural harvester.

[0004] Agricultural harvesters are used to harvest agricultural products (e.g., cotton or other natural materials). For example, an agricultural harvester may include a harvesting table with a roller configured to harvest agricultural products from a field. The agricultural harvester may also include an air-assisted conveying system configured to move the agricultural products from the roller to an accumulator. The agricultural products may then be fed into a baler via the conveying system. The baler may compress the agricultural products into packages to facilitate storage, transportation, and handling of the agricultural products. For example, a round baler may compress the agricultural products into round bales within a baling chamber so that the round bales have a desired size and density. After the bale is formed, the bale may be wrapped with a bale wrap to secure the agricultural products within the bale and generally maintain the shape of the bale. Summary of the invention

[0005] In certain embodiments, a pad leveling system for a conveyor system for an agricultural harvester includes a first exit roller configured to support a first belt of a pair of opposing belts. The first exit roller is configured to be positioned at an exit of the pair of opposing belts. The pad leveling system also includes a second exit roller configured to support a second belt of the pair of opposing belts. The second exit roller is configured to be positioned at an exit of the pair of opposing belts. In addition, the pad leveling system also includes: a first mounting assembly configured to enable the first exit roller to move relative to the second exit roller and to push the first exit roller toward the second belt to reduce variations in thickness of the pad of agricultural products; a second mounting assembly configured to enable the second exit roller to move relative to the first exit roller and to push the second exit roller toward the first belt to reduce variations in thickness of the pad of agricultural products; or a combination thereof.

[0006] In addition, in some embodiments, the conveyor system of the agricultural harvester includes a first belt and a second belt spaced apart from the first belt relative to a vertical axis of the agricultural harvester. The first belt and the second belt are configured to transport the agricultural product along a downstream direction toward the cavity. The conveyor system also includes a starter roller spaced apart from the first belt by a gap along the vertical axis. The starter roller is configured to initiate the formation of the agricultural product bundle in the cavity. In addition, the conveyor system also includes a blocking bar positioned near the first belt and the starter roller. The vertical extension range of the blocking bar at least partially overlaps the gap relative to the vertical axis, and the blocking bar is configured to block the agricultural product in the cavity from passing through the gap in the upstream direction. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will be better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like characters refer to like parts throughout, and in which:

[0008] Figure 1 is a side view of one embodiment of an agricultural machinery system having an agricultural produce transport component;

[0009] Figure 2 It is available for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of an agricultural product transport component of an agricultural machinery system;

[0010] Figure 3 is available in Figure 2 A schematic diagram of one embodiment of a conveyor system used in an agricultural product transport assembly;

[0011] Figure 4 It is available for Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a portion of one embodiment of a pad leveling system for a conveyor system;

[0012] Figure 5A is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a mounting assembly that may be used with a pad leveling system;

[0013] Figure 5B is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a mounting assembly that may be used with a pad leveling system;

[0014] Figure 6 It is available for Figure 3 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of a blocking rod of a conveying system; and

[0015] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A perspective view of a blocking rod. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] One or more specific embodiments of the present disclosure are described below. In order to provide a concise description of these embodiments, all features of an actual implementation may not be described in the specification. It should be understood that in the development of any such actual implementation, as in any engineering or design project, many implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developer's specific goals, such as complying with system-related and business-related constraints, which may vary from implementation to implementation. In addition, it should be understood that such development work may be complex and time-consuming, but it is still a routine task of design, manufacturing, and fabrication for ordinary technicians who benefit from this disclosure.

[0017] When introducing elements of various embodiments of the present disclosure, the articles "a," "an," and "the" are intended to indicate that there are one or more elements. The terms "comprising," "including," and "having" are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements in addition to the listed elements. Any examples of operating parameters and / or environmental conditions do not exclude other parameters / conditions of the disclosed embodiments.

[0018] Figure 1 1 is a side view of one embodiment of an agricultural machinery system 10 (e.g., a harvester, an agricultural harvester) having a produce transport assembly 11. The agricultural machinery system 10 is configured to harvest produce 12 (e.g., cotton) from a field 14 and form the produce 12 into bales (e.g., agricultural bales). In the illustrated embodiment, the agricultural machinery system 10 includes a header 16 having a drum configured to harvest the produce 12 from the field 14. In addition, the produce transport assembly 11 of the agricultural machinery system 10 also includes an air-assisted conveying system 18 configured to move the produce 12 from the drum of the header 16 to an accumulator of the produce transport assembly 11. The produce transport assembly 11 also includes a conveying system configured to convey the produce 12 from the accumulator to a baler 20 (e.g., an agricultural baler). The baler 20 is supported by and / or mounted within or on a chassis of the agricultural machinery system 10. The baler 20 may form the produce 12 into round bales. However, in other embodiments, the baler 20 of the agricultural machine system 10 may form the produce into square bales, polygonal bales, or other suitable shaped bales. After the produce 12 is formed into bales, the bale wrapping system of the agricultural machine system 10 wraps the bales with a bale wrap to secure the produce 12 within the bale and generally maintain the shape of the bale.

[0019] As described in detail below, the conveyor system includes a pair of opposing belts configured to compress the produce 12 and transport the produce 12 from the accumulator to the baler 20. In addition, in some embodiments, the conveyor system includes a pad leveling system configured to reduce the variation in thickness of the produce pad formed by the pair of opposing belts. In some embodiments, the pad leveling system includes a first outlet roller configured to support a first belt of the pair of opposing belts. The first outlet roller is positioned at the outlet of the pair of opposing belts. The pad leveling system also includes a second outlet roller configured to support a second belt of the pair of opposing belts. The second outlet roller is positioned at the outlet of the pair of opposing belts. In addition, the pad leveling system also includes a first mounting assembly and / or a second mounting assembly. The first mounting assembly is configured to enable the first outlet roller to move relative to the second outlet roller and push the first outlet roller toward the second belt to reduce the variation in thickness of the produce pad. In addition, the second mounting assembly is configured to enable the second outlet roller to move relative to the first outlet roller and push the second outlet roller toward the first belt to reduce the variation in thickness of the produce pad. Reducing the variation in mat thickness improves the uniformity of produce entering the baler. As a result, density variations within the finished bale can be reduced, enhancing downstream logistics and handling of produce.

[0020] In addition, in some embodiments, the conveying system further includes a starter roller that is spaced apart from the first belt by a gap along the vertical axis of the agricultural machinery system 10. The starter roller is configured to start the formation of a bale of agricultural products in the cavity of the baler 20, and the pair of opposing belts is configured to transport the agricultural products from the accumulator to the cavity of the baler 20 in a downstream direction. In addition, the conveying system further includes a blocking bar that is positioned near the first belt and the starter roller. The vertical extension of the blocking bar at least partially overlaps the gap relative to the vertical axis, and the blocking bar is configured to block the agricultural products in the cavity from passing through the gap in the upstream direction. Therefore, the amount of agricultural products that engage the top surface of the first belt and move toward the accumulator may be significantly reduced, thereby significantly reducing the accumulation of agricultural products within the agricultural machinery system 10 and / or on certain components of the agricultural machinery system 10 (e.g., components that are not configured to interact with the agricultural products).

[0021] Figure 2 It is available for Figure 1Schematic diagram of one embodiment of a produce transport assembly 11 of an agricultural machinery system of the present invention. As previously described, the harvesting table 16 of the agricultural machinery system 10 includes a drum configured to harvest produce 12 (e.g., cotton) from a field. In addition, the air-assisted conveying system 18 is configured to move the produce 12 from the drum of the harvesting table 16 to the accumulator 26. In the illustrated embodiment, the air-assisted conveying system 18 includes a conveying air source 28 configured to output a conveying air flow through one or more conduits 30. Each conduit 30 receives the produce 12 (e.g., cotton) from the harvesting table 16, and the conveying air flow output by the conveying air source 28 drives the produce from the harvesting table 16 to the accumulator 26 through the conduit 30. In the illustrated embodiment, the produce transport assembly 11 includes an auger 32 configured to distribute the produce 12 (e.g., cotton) through the accumulator 26 in a lateral direction (e.g., across the direction of movement of the produce through the accumulator). In the illustrated embodiment, the produce transport assembly 11 includes two auger conveyors 32. However, in other embodiments, the produce transport assembly may include more or fewer augers (eg, 0, 1, 3, 4, or more).

[0022] In the illustrated embodiment, the conveyor system 34 of the produce transport assembly 11 includes a pair of opposing belts 36 configured to compress the produce 12 and transport the produce 12 from the accumulator 26 to the baler 20. As shown, the pair of opposing belts 36 includes a first belt (e.g., an upper belt) 38 and a second belt (e.g., a lower belt) 40, wherein the belts are positioned on opposite sides of the produce 12. The produce 12 enters the pair of opposing belts 36 at an inlet 42, and the produce 12 exits the pair of opposing belts 36 at an outlet 44. Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment, the conveyor system 34 includes an agitation roller 46 positioned upstream of the inlet 42 of the pair of opposing belts 36. The agitation roller 46 is configured to agitate the produce 12 entering the pair of opposing belts 36, thereby improving the uniformity of distribution of the produce passing through the pair of opposing belts 36.

[0023] In the illustrated embodiment, the baler 20 includes a plurality of rollers 48 that support and / or drive one or more belts 50 to rotate. For example, one or more rollers 48 engage with the belt 50 to enable the belt 50 to move along a path defined by the rollers 48 and the bale 52. The one or more rollers 48 are driven to rotate via a belt drive system (e.g., including an electric motor, a hydraulic motor, a pneumatic motor, etc.). The belt 50 circulates around the path defined by the rollers 48 and the bale 52. The movement of the belt 50 captures the produce 12 from the conveyor system 34 and draws the produce 12 into the cavity 54, where the produce 12 is gradually accumulated to form the bale 52.

[0024] In the illustrated embodiment, the baler 20 includes a tensioning arm 56 configured to generate tension in the band 50. As the produce 12 accumulates within the cavity 54, the produce 12 exerts a force on the band 50 that pushes the first portion 58 of the band 50 around the bale 52 to expand. At the same time, the size of the second portion 60 (e.g., the serpentine portion) of the band 50 is also reduced. Thus, the second portion 60 of the band 50 provides an increased band length for the expanded first portion 58. In the illustrated embodiment, the second portion 60 of the band 50 is formed by a fixed roller 48 (e.g., a roller fixed to the housing / frame of the baler 20) and a tensioning arm 56 that is pivotable relative to the fixed roller 48 (e.g., relative to the housing / frame of the baler 20). Thus, as the produce 12 accumulates within the cavity 54, the tensioning arm 56 is driven to rotate, thereby reducing the size of the second portion 60, allowing the first portion 58 to expand.

[0025] Once the bale 52 reaches the desired size, the bale wrapping system 62 wraps the bale 52 with a bale wrap 64 to secure the produce within the bale 52 and generally maintain the shape of the bale 52, such as the circular shape in the illustrated embodiment. In other embodiments, the shape of the bale can be rectangular, polygonal, or other suitable shapes. The bale wrap 64 can be fed into contact with the bale 52 using one or more feed rollers. The feed roller drives the bale wrap 64 toward the start roller 66. The start roller 66 is configured to rotate to initiate the formation of the bale 52 within the cavity 54 and drive the bale wrap 64 into contact with the bale 52. The bale wrap 64 is captured between the bale 52 and the belt 50. Therefore, the rotation of the bale 52 will pull the bale wrap 64 around the bale 52, thereby wrapping the bale 52. After the bale 52 is wrapped, the bale 52 is discharged from the baler 20 and the process of forming a subsequent bale can be initiated.

[0026] In some embodiments, during the harvesting process, the conveyor system 34 and the baler 20 may be periodically activated to transfer the produce 12 from the accumulator 26 to the baler 20 and form the bales 52. For example, as the agricultural machine system 10 moves across the field, the produce 12 may be accumulated in the accumulator 26. After reaching a selected accumulator high fill level, the conveyor system 34 may be activated to transport the produce 12 from the accumulator 26 to the baler 20. For example, the conveyor system 34 may transport the produce 12 toward the baler 20 much faster than the air-assisted conveying system 18 can move the produce 12 into the accumulator 26. As described above, while the conveyor system 34 is activated, the baler 20 may be activated to start the bale forming process. After reaching the accumulator low fill level, the conveyor system 34 and the baler 20 may be deactivated to allow the accumulator 26 to collect more produce 12. In some embodiments, the conveyor assembly 34 and the baler 20 may be activated four or five times to bring the bales 52 to the desired size. As previously described, once the bale reaches the desired size, the bale wrapping system 62 wraps the bale 52 with the bale wrap 64. Because the conveyor system 34 and baler 20 are periodically activated, the agricultural machine system 10 may utilize less energy during the harvesting process (e.g., compared to continuously operating the conveyor system and baler).

[0027] In some embodiments, the conveyor system 34 includes a mat leveling system configured to reduce variations in the thickness of the produce mat formed by the pair of opposing belts. For example, in some embodiments, the mat leveling system includes a first exit roller configured to support a first belt 38 of the pair of opposing belts 36. The first exit roller is positioned at an exit 44 of the pair of opposing belts 36. The mat leveling system also includes a second exit roller configured to support a second belt 40 of the pair of opposing belts 36. The second exit roller is positioned at an exit 44 of the pair of opposing belts 36. In addition, the mat leveling system also includes a first mounting assembly and / or a second mounting assembly. The first mounting assembly is configured to enable the first exit roller to move relative to the second exit roller and to push the first exit roller toward the second belt 40 to reduce variations in the thickness of the produce mat. In addition, the second mounting assembly is configured to enable the second exit roller to move relative to the first exit roller and to push the second exit roller toward the first belt 38 to reduce variations in the thickness of the produce mat. Reducing variations in the thickness of the mat can improve the uniformity of the produce entering the baler. As a result, density variations within the finished bale can be reduced, thereby enhancing downstream logistics and handling of produce.

[0028] The initiating roller 66 is spaced apart from the first belt 38 by a gap along the vertical axis of the agricultural machinery system 10. The initiating roller 66 is configured to initiate the formation of a bale 52 of the produce 12 in the cavity 54 of the baler 20, and the pair of opposing belts 36 is configured to transport the produce 12 from the accumulator 26 to the cavity 54 of the baler 20 in a downstream direction. In certain embodiments, the conveying system 34 includes a blocking bar positioned adjacent the first belt 38 and the initiating roller 66. The vertical extension of the blocking bar at least partially overlaps the gap relative to the vertical axis, and the blocking bar is configured to block the produce 12 in the cavity 54 from passing through the gap in the upstream direction. As a result, the amount of produce 12 that engages the top surface of the first belt 38 and moves toward the accumulator 26 may be significantly reduced, thereby significantly reducing the accumulation of produce 12 within the agricultural machinery system 10 and / or on certain components of the agricultural machinery system 10 (e.g., components that are not configured to interact with the produce 12).

[0029] Figure 3 is available in Figure 2 Schematic diagram of one embodiment of a conveyor system 34 used in a produce transport assembly of a present invention. As previously described, the pair of opposing belts 36 are configured to compress produce 12 and transport the produce from an accumulator to a baler. The first belt 38 is configured to rotate in a first rotational direction 70 to move a produce engagement surface 72 of the first belt 38 toward the baler in a translational direction (e.g., a downstream direction) 74. In addition, a second belt 40 is positioned on an opposite side of the produce 12 from the first belt 38, and the second belt 40 is configured to rotate in a second rotational direction 76 opposite the first rotational direction 70 to move a produce engagement surface 78 of the second belt 40 toward the baler relative to the translational direction. Thus, the first belt 38 and the second belt 40 are configured to cooperate with each other to move the produce 12 from the accumulator to the baler along the translational direction (e.g., a downstream direction) 74. In the illustrated embodiment, the first belt 38 and the second belt 40 (e.g., the produce engaging surface 72 of the first belt 38 and the produce engaging surface 78 of the second belt 40) converge toward the baler in the translation direction 74 to compress the produce 12 between the produce engaging surfaces of the belts.

[0030] In the illustrated embodiment, each belt extends along the entire lateral extension of the conveyor system (e.g., the extension of the conveyor system transverse to the translation direction). However, in other embodiments, the conveyor system may include a plurality of first belts distributed along the lateral extension of the conveyor system, and / or the conveyor system may include a plurality of second belts distributed along the lateral extension of the conveyor system. In addition, in the illustrated embodiment, each belt is rotatably supported by two primary rollers 80, wherein each primary roller 80 engages with a first inner surface (e.g., a top inner surface) and a second inner surface (e.g., a bottom inner surface) of the corresponding belt. The primary rollers 80 are positioned at opposite ends of each belt relative to the translation direction 74, and the primary rollers 80 extend along the entire lateral extension of the conveyor system. In other embodiments, at least one belt may be supported by one or more additional primary rollers. For example, at least one belt may be supported by at least one additional primary roller positioned along the length of the belt relative to the translation direction, and / or at least one belt may be supported by at least one additional primary roller positioned along the lateral extension of the belt (e.g., a plurality of primary rollers may be distributed along the lateral extension of the belt at a common position along the length of the belt relative to the translation direction). In addition, in the illustrated embodiment, the second belt 40 is supported by two secondary rollers 82, wherein each secondary roller 82 contacts only one inner surface of the second belt 40. In the illustrated embodiment, each secondary roller 82 contacts the first inner surface (e.g., the top inner surface) of the second belt 40. However, in other embodiments, at least one secondary roller may contact the second inner surface (e.g., the bottom inner surface) of the second belt. In addition, while in the illustrated embodiment, the second belt 40 is supported by two secondary rollers 82, in other embodiments, the second belt may be supported by more or fewer secondary rollers (e.g., 0, 1, 3, 4, or more). For example, in some embodiments, the second belt may not be supported by any secondary rollers. In addition, in some embodiments, the first belt may be supported by one or more secondary rollers, wherein each secondary roller contacts only one inner surface (e.g., the first inner surface or the second inner surface) of the first belt. In some embodiments, at least one belt may be supported by a disk extending along a portion of the length of the belt (e.g., in embodiments where the belt is not supported by any secondary rollers).

[0031] Although in the illustrated embodiment, the belts converge toward the bale wrapper in the translation direction 74, in other embodiments, the belts (e.g., the produce engaging surfaces of the belts) may diverge toward the bale wrapper in the translation direction or may be parallel to one another. Additionally, although in the illustrated embodiment, the conveyor system 34 includes opposing belts positioned on opposite sides of the produce 12, in other embodiments, the conveyor system may include only a belt positioned on one side of the produce. For example, in some embodiments, the conveyor system may include a belt positioned on one side of the produce and a support surface positioned on the opposite side of the produce.

[0032] In the illustrated embodiment, the length of the second belt 40 relative to the translation direction 74 is greater than the length of the first belt 38 relative to the translation direction 74. As shown, the downstream end 84 of the second belt 40 extends beyond the downstream end 86 of the first belt 38 relative to the translation direction 74. Although in the illustrated embodiment, the downstream end 84 of the second belt 40 extends beyond the downstream end 86 of the first belt 38 relative to the translation direction 74, in other embodiments, the downstream end of the first belt may extend beyond the downstream end of the second belt relative to the translation direction, or the downstream ends of the belts may be located at the same position relative to the translation direction. In addition, in the illustrated embodiment, the upstream end 90 of the second belt 40 is positioned upstream of the upstream end 92 of the first belt 38 relative to the translation direction 74. As shown, the agitation roller 46 is positioned near the upstream end 92 of the first belt 38, and the agitation roller 46 is positioned on the opposite side of the produce 12 from the second belt 40. Although in the illustrated embodiment, the upstream end 90 of the second belt 40 is positioned upstream of the upstream end 92 of the first belt 38 relative to the translation direction 74, in other embodiments, the upstream end of the first belt may be positioned upstream of the upstream end of the second belt relative to the translation direction, or the upstream ends of the belts may be located at the same position relative to the translation direction. In addition, in some embodiments, the length of the first belt may be equal to or greater than the length of the second belt. Although in the illustrated embodiment, the first belt 38 and the agitation roller 46 are positioned above the produce 12 in the conveyor system 34, and the second belt 40 is positioned below the produce 12 in the conveyor system 34, in other embodiments, the first belt and the agitation roller may be positioned below the produce and the second belt may be positioned above the produce. In addition, the inlet 42 of the pair of opposing belts 36 is positioned at the upstream end 92 of the first belt 38, and the outlet 44 of the pair of opposing belts 36 is positioned at the downstream end 86 of the first belt 38. However, in embodiments where at least one belt has different lengths, the inlet may be positioned at the upstream end of the belt having the farther downstream upstream end, and the outlet may be positioned at the downstream end of the belt having the farther upstream downstream end.

[0033] In the illustrated embodiment, the first belt 38 is driven to rotate by a motor 94 coupled to one primary roller 80 (e.g., an upstream primary roller 80 or a downstream primary roller 80). The motor 94 may include an electric motor, a pneumatic motor, a hydraulic motor, other suitable types of motors, or a combination thereof. Although in the illustrated embodiment, the first belt 38 is driven to rotate by one motor 94 coupled to one primary roller 80, in other embodiments, the first belt may be driven to rotate by multiple motors coupled to one or more primary rollers. In addition, in some embodiments, the first belt may be driven to rotate by one or more motors coupled to one or more secondary rollers (e.g., alone or in combination with a motor coupled to a primary roller). In addition, in the illustrated embodiment, the second belt 40 is driven to rotate by a motor 96 coupled to one primary roller 80 (e.g., an upstream primary roller 80 or a downstream primary roller 80). The motor 96 may include an electric motor, a pneumatic motor, a hydraulic motor, other suitable types of motors, or a combination thereof. Although in the illustrated embodiment, the second belt 40 is driven to rotate by a motor 96 coupled to a primary roller 80, in other embodiments, the second belt may be driven to rotate by multiple motors coupled to one or more primary rollers. In addition, in some embodiments, the second belt may be driven to rotate by one or more motors coupled to one or more secondary rollers (e.g., alone or in combination with a motor coupled to the primary roller). In some embodiments, the first belt and the second belt may be driven to rotate by a common motor (e.g., the roller supporting one belt may be driven directly by a motor, the roller supporting the other belt may be driven by a belt or chain connected to the motor, the roller supporting each belt may be driven by a belt or chain connected to a gearbox driven by the motor, etc.).

[0034] In the illustrated embodiment, the stirring roller 46 is positioned upstream of the inlet 42 of the pair of opposing belts 36. The stirring roller 46 is configured to stir the agricultural product 12 entering the pair of opposing belts 36, thereby improving the uniformity of distribution of the agricultural product passing through the pair of opposing belts 36. In some embodiments, the stirring roller 46 is configured to rotate along the second rotational direction 76. However, in other embodiments, the stirring roller can be configured to rotate along the first rotational direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the stirring roller 46 includes a roller 98 and a plurality of teeth 100 extending outwardly from the roller 98. When the stirring roller 46 rotates, the teeth 100 are configured to engage with the agricultural product 12, thereby stirring the agricultural product 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the stirring roller 46 extends along the entire lateral extension of the conveyor system (e.g., the extension of the conveyor system intersecting the translation direction 74). However, in other embodiments, the conveyor system may include a plurality of stirring rollers distributed along the lateral extension of the conveyor system. Additionally or alternatively, the conveyor system may also include a plurality of stirring rollers distributed along the translation direction. Furthermore, while in the illustrated embodiment, the conveyor system 34 includes agitator rollers 46, in other embodiments, the agitator rollers may be omitted.

[0035] In the illustrated embodiment, the stirring roller 46 is driven to rotate by a motor 102 coupled to the roller 98. The motor 102 may include an electric motor, a pneumatic motor, a hydraulic motor, other suitable types of motors, or a combination thereof. Although in the illustrated embodiment, the stirring roller 46 is driven to rotate by one motor 102, in other embodiments, the stirring roller may be driven to rotate by multiple motors.

[0036] The conveyor system 34 includes a mat-leveling system 106 configured to reduce variations in thickness 108 of a mat 110 of produce 12 formed by the pair of opposing belts 36. In the illustrated embodiment, the mat-leveling system 106 includes a first exit roller 112 that corresponds to the downstream primary roller 80 configured to support the first belt 38. As shown, the first exit roller 112 is positioned at the exit 44 of the pair of opposing belts 36. Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment, the mat-leveling system 106 includes a second exit roller 114 that corresponds to the downstream secondary roller 82 configured to support the second belt 40. As shown, the second exit roller 114 is positioned at the exit 44 of the pair of opposing belts 36.

[0037] Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment, the mat leveling system 106 includes a first mounting assembly 116 configured to enable movement of the first exit roller 112 relative to the second exit roller 114 and to urge the first exit roller 112 toward the second belt 40 to reduce variations in the thickness 108 of the mat 110 of the produce 12. The first mounting assembly 116 is configured to enable movement of the first exit roller 112 relative to the second exit roller 114, relative to an axis extending through the pair of opposing belts 36 and through the mat 110 (e.g., the vertical axis 88 of the agricultural machinery system). In the illustrated embodiment, the first mounting assembly 116 includes a first pair of pivot arms 118 pivotably coupled to opposing lateral ends of the first exit roller 112. The first pair of pivot arms 118 may also be pivotably coupled to a frame of the agricultural machinery system. Thus, the first pair of pivot arms 118 enables the first exit roller 112 to move toward and away from the second exit roller 114 relative to an axis (eg, vertical axis 88 ) extending through the pair of opposing belts 36 and through the pad 110 .

[0038] In addition, the first mounting assembly 116 also includes a first biasing assembly 120, which is configured to push the first outlet roller 112 toward the second belt 40. The first biasing assembly 120 can include any suitable biasing device, and in some embodiments, the biasing device can be connected to the first pair of pivot arms 118 and configured to push the first pair of pivot arms 118 to move the first outlet roller 112 toward the second belt 40. For example, the biasing device can include a resilient element, a spring (e.g., a coil spring, a leaf spring, a torsion spring, etc.), a hydraulic cylinder, a pneumatic cylinder, other suitable biasing devices, or a combination thereof. In embodiments where the biasing device includes a hydraulic cylinder and / or a pneumatic cylinder, the force applied by the cylinder can be adjusted (e.g., manually and / or automatically before and / or during operation of the agricultural machinery system, etc.). For example, in some embodiments, the movement of the first outlet roller 112 can be selectively disabled (e.g., by significantly increasing the pressure in the cylinder). In some embodiments, the movement of the first exit roller 112 can be selectively disabled by a movable stop (e.g., a latch, etc.). In addition, in some embodiments, the first biasing assembly can be integrally formed with the first pair of pivot arms. For example, each pivot arm can be fixedly coupled to a frame of the agricultural machinery system, and each pivot arm (e.g., made of a material such as spring steel) can be configured to urge the first exit roller toward the second belt.

[0039] Although in the illustrated embodiment, the first mounting assembly 116 includes the first pair of pivot arms 118, in other embodiments, the first mounting assembly may include other suitable components configured to movably couple the first outlet roller to the frame, such as a track assembly, a slider assembly, a pin and slot assembly, etc. In addition, in the illustrated embodiment, the first mounting assembly 116 enables the first outlet roller 112 to move along a curved path (e.g., with its center point located at the pivot point of the first pair of pivot arms 118) relative to the second outlet roller 114. However, in other embodiments (e.g., in embodiments where the first mounting assembly includes a track assembly, a slider assembly, a pin and slot assembly, etc.), the first mounting assembly may enable the first outlet roller to move along a linear path (e.g., aligned with the vertical axis 88, angled relative to the vertical axis 88, etc.) or along other suitable paths relative to the second outlet roller.

[0040] In some embodiments, the first mounting assembly 116 includes a first inward mechanical stop configured to block movement of the first exit roller 112 toward the second belt 40. During normal operation, the first biasing assembly 120 can drive the first exit roller 112 to an operating position in which the first inward mechanical stop blocks movement of the first exit roller 112 toward the second belt 40. When the first exit roller 112 is in the operating position, the downstream end 86 of the first belt 38 can remain in a fixed position, thereby leveling the top surface of the pad 110 and reducing variations in the thickness 108 of the pad 110. The first inward mechanical stop can include any suitable structure / device configured to block movement of the first exit roller toward the second belt, such as a hook configured to engage with a pivot arm, a slot end configured to engage with a bearing / joint connecting the pivot arm to the first exit roller, etc. In addition, in some embodiments, the first mounting assembly 116 includes a first outward mechanical stop configured to block movement of the first exit roller 112 away from the second belt 40. The first outward mechanical stop may include any suitable structure / device configured to block movement of the first exit roller away from the second belt, such as a hook configured to engage with the pivot arm, a slot end configured to engage with a bearing / joint connecting the pivot arm to the first exit roller, etc. Although the first mounting assembly including the first inward mechanical stop and the first outward mechanical stop is disclosed above, in some embodiments, the first inward mechanical stop and / or the first outward mechanical stop may be omitted.

[0041] In the illustrated embodiment, the mat leveling system 106 includes a second mounting assembly 122 (e.g., a mounting assembly) configured to enable the second exit roller 114 to move relative to the first exit roller 112 and to urge the second exit roller 114 toward the first belt 38 to reduce variations in the thickness 108 of the mat 110 of the produce 12. The second mounting assembly 122 is configured to enable the second exit roller 114 to move relative to the first exit roller 112, relative to an axis (e.g., a vertical axis 88) extending through the pair of opposing belts 36 and through the mat 110. In the illustrated embodiment, the second mounting assembly 122 includes a second pair of pivot arms 124 (e.g., a pair of pivot arms) pivotably coupled to opposing lateral ends of the second exit roller 114. The second pair of pivot arms 124 may also be pivotally coupled to a frame of the agricultural machine system. Thus, the second pair of pivot arms 124 enables the second exit roller 114 to move toward and away from the first exit roller 112 relative to an axis (eg, vertical axis 88 ) extending through the pair of opposing belts 36 and through the pad 110 .

[0042] In addition, the second mounting assembly 122 also includes a second biasing assembly 126 (e.g., a biasing assembly) configured to urge the second outlet roller 114 toward the first belt 38. The second biasing assembly 126 can include any suitable biasing device, and in some embodiments, the biasing device can be coupled to the second pair of pivot arms 124 and configured to urge the second pair of pivot arms 124 to move the second outlet roller 114 toward the first belt 38. For example, the biasing device can include a flexible element, a spring (e.g., a coil spring, a leaf spring, a torsion spring, etc.), a hydraulic cylinder, a pneumatic cylinder, other suitable biasing devices, or a combination thereof. In embodiments where the biasing device includes a hydraulic cylinder and / or a pneumatic cylinder, the force applied by the cylinder can be adjusted (e.g., manually and / or automatically before and / or during operation of the agricultural machinery system, etc.). For example, in some embodiments, the movement of the second outlet roller 114 can be selectively disabled (e.g., by significantly increasing the pressure within the cylinder). In some embodiments, the movement of the second exit roller 114 can be selectively disabled by a movable stop (e.g., a latch, etc.). In addition, in some embodiments, the second biasing assembly can be integrally formed with the second pair of pivot arms. For example, each pivot arm can be fixedly coupled to the frame of the agricultural machinery system, and each pivot arm (e.g., made of a material such as spring steel) can be configured to push the second exit roller toward the second belt.

[0043] Although in the illustrated embodiment, the second mounting assembly 122 includes the second pair of pivot arms 124, in other embodiments, the second mounting assembly may include other suitable components configured to movably couple the second outlet roller to the frame, such as a track assembly, a slider assembly, a pin and slot assembly, etc. In addition, in the illustrated embodiment, the second mounting assembly 122 enables the second outlet roller 114 to move along a curved path (e.g., with its center point located at the pivot point of the second pair of pivot arms 124) relative to the first outlet roller 112. However, in other embodiments (e.g., in embodiments where the second mounting assembly includes a track assembly, a slider assembly, a pin and slot assembly, etc.), the second mounting assembly may enable the second outlet roller to move along a linear path (e.g., aligned with the vertical axis 88, angled relative to the vertical axis 88, etc.) or along other suitable paths relative to the first outlet roller.

[0044] In certain embodiments, second mounting assembly 122 includes a second inward mechanical stop configured to block movement of second exit roller 114 toward first belt 38. During normal operation, second biasing assembly 126 can drive second exit roller 114 to an operating position in which second inward mechanical stop blocks movement of second exit roller 114 toward first belt 38. When second exit roller 114 is in the operating position, a portion of produce engaging surface 78 of second belt 40 at second exit roller 114 can remain in a fixed position, thereby leveling the bottom surface of pad 110 and reducing variations in thickness 108 of pad 110. Second inward mechanical stop can include any suitable structure / device configured to block movement of second exit roller toward first belt, such as a hook configured to engage with a pivot arm, a slotted end configured to engage with a bearing / joint connecting the pivot arm to the second exit roller, etc. Additionally, in some embodiments, the second mounting assembly 122 further includes a second outward mechanical stop configured to block movement of the second exit roller 114 away from the first belt 38. The second outward mechanical stop may be configured to limit deflection of the second belt 40 at the second exit roller 114, thereby extending the useful life of the second belt. The second outward mechanical stop may include any suitable structure / device configured to block movement of the second exit roller away from the first belt, such as a hook configured to engage with a pivot arm, a slot end configured to engage with a bearing / joint connecting the pivot arm to the second exit roller, etc. Although a second mounting assembly including a second inward mechanical stop and a second outward mechanical stop is disclosed above, in some embodiments, the second inward mechanical stop and / or the second outward mechanical stop may be omitted.

[0045] As previously described, the first biasing assembly 120 urges the first exit roller 112 toward the second belt 40. Thus, during normal operation, the portion of the produce engaging surface 72 of the first belt 38 at the first exit roller 112 is positioned to level the top surface of the pad 110, thereby reducing variations in the thickness 108 of the pad 110. Additionally, the second biasing assembly 126 urges the second exit roller 114 toward the first belt 38. Thus, during normal operation, the portion of the produce engaging surface 78 of the second belt 40 at the second exit roller 114 is positioned to level the bottom surface of the pad 110, thereby reducing variations in the thickness 108 of the pad 110. For example, the pad leveling system 106 can reduce thickness variations of the pad 110 along the translation direction 74 and / or thickness variations in a lateral direction transverse to the translation direction 74. Reducing variations in the thickness 108 of the pad 110 can improve uniformity of the produce entering the baler. Thus, density variations within the finished bale can be reduced, thereby enhancing downstream logistics and handling of the produce.

[0046] In addition, in response to the high-density mass of material reaching the outlet 44 of the pair of opposing belts 36, the first mounting assembly 116 enables the first outlet roller 112 to move away from the second outlet roller 114, and the second mounting assembly 122 enables the second outlet roller 114 to move away from the first outlet roller 112. For example, the movement of the high-density mass through the outlet 44 can drive the first outlet roller 112 to move away from the second outlet roller 114 (e.g., via the first pair of pivot arms 118 to rotate against the force applied by the first biasing assembly 120), and drive the second outlet roller 114 to move away from the first outlet roller 112 (e.g., via the second pair of pivot arms 124 to rotate against the force applied by the second biasing assembly 126). Thus, the possibility of a high-density mass of material blocking the conveying system 34 is significantly reduced or eliminated.

[0047] In the illustrated embodiment, the first mounting assembly 116 enables the first exit roller 112 to move relative to the second exit roller 114, relative to an axis extending through the pair of opposing belts 36 and through the pad 110 (e.g., the vertical axis 88). In addition, the second mounting assembly 122 enables the second exit roller 114 to move relative to the first exit roller 112, relative to an axis extending through the pair of opposing belts 36 and through the pad 110 (e.g., the vertical axis 88). In some embodiments, the remaining rollers of the conveyor assembly 34 (e.g., the primary roller 80 and the secondary roller 82) can be fixedly and rotatably mounted to the frame of the agricultural machinery system (e.g., the position of each remaining roller can be fixed relative to the frame of the agricultural machinery system). Although in the illustrated embodiment, the first exit roller 112 and the second exit roller 114 are movably coupled to the frame of the agricultural machinery system by corresponding mounting assemblies, in other embodiments, only one exit roller (e.g., the first exit roller or the second exit roller) can be movably coupled to the frame by corresponding mounting assemblies. In this case, the mounting assembly for the other exit roller can be omitted. For example, in some embodiments, a first exit roller can be fixedly and rotatably coupled to the frame of the agricultural machinery system, and a second exit roller can be movably and rotatably coupled to the frame of the agricultural machinery system via a second mounting assembly. Additionally, in some embodiments, at least one of the other rollers of the conveyor system (e.g., not the exit roller) can be movably coupled to the frame via a corresponding mounting assembly. In these embodiments, the mounting assembly can enable the corresponding roller to move relative to a corresponding roller on an opposite side of the pad, and the mounting assembly (e.g., a biasing assembly of the mounting assembly) can push the roller toward the opposite belt to reduce variations in the thickness of the pad.

[0048] As previously described, the first exit roller 112 is positioned at the exit 44 of the pair of opposing belts 36 and the second exit roller 114 is positioned at the exit 44 of the pair of opposing belts 36. Thus, the produce 12 passes between the first exit roller 112 and the second exit roller 114 at the exit 44 of the pair of opposing belts 36, thereby reducing variations in the thickness 108 of the mat 110 (e.g., along the translation direction 74 and / or along the lateral direction). Although in the illustrated embodiment, the first exit roller 112 corresponds to the primary roller 80 and the second exit roller 114 corresponds to the secondary roller 82, in other embodiments (e.g., in embodiments where the first belt extends beyond the second belt relative to the translation direction), the first exit roller may correspond to the secondary roller and the second exit roller may correspond to the primary roller. Furthermore, in some embodiments (e.g., in embodiments where the downstream ends of the belts may be located at the same location relative to the translation direction), the first exit roller and the second exit roller may correspond to the primary roller. Furthermore, while in the illustrated embodiment, each roller of the pad leveling system 106 is positioned at the exit 44 of the pair of opposing belts 36, in other embodiments, at least one roller of the pad leveling system (e.g., a roller that is movable relative to the frame of the agricultural machinery system and is urged toward the opposing belts) may be positioned at another suitable position relative to the translation direction (e.g., between the entrance and exit of the pair of opposing belts, including the entrance). For example, in some embodiments, the pad leveling system may include a roller (e.g., a roller that is movable relative to the frame of the agricultural machinery system and is urged toward the opposing belts) that is positioned at the same position relative to the translation direction as a fixedly mounted primary roller or secondary roller. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the pad leveling system may also include a pair of rollers (e.g., each roller that is movable relative to the frame of the agricultural machinery system and is urged toward the opposing belts) that are positioned at the same position relative to the translation direction.

[0049] As previously described, the first mounting assembly 116 includes a first pair of pivot arms 118 that are pivotally coupled to opposite lateral ends of the first outlet roller 112 and pivotally coupled to the frame of the agricultural machinery system. In addition, the second mounting assembly 122 includes a second pair of pivot arms 124 that are pivotally coupled to opposite lateral ends of the second outlet roller 114 and pivotally coupled to the frame of the agricultural machinery system. In some embodiments, the first pair of pivot arms 118 are fixedly coupled to each other so that the first pair of pivot arms 118 rotate together, and / or the second pair of pivot arms 124 are fixedly coupled to each other so that the second pair of pivot arms 124 rotate together. However, in some embodiments, the first pair of pivot arms 118 can rotate independently of each other relative to the frame of the agricultural machinery system. In these embodiments, the first outlet roller 112 can rotate about an axis extending along the translation direction 74 (e.g., due to a high-density material mass passing through the outlet 44 of the pair of opposing belts 36). Additionally, in some embodiments, the second pair of pivot arms 124 can rotate independently of each other relative to the frame of the agricultural machine system. In these embodiments, the second outlet roller 114 can rotate about an axis extending along the translation direction 74 (e.g., due to a high-density mass of material passing through the outlet 44 of the pair of opposing belts 36).

[0050] As shown, the first belt 38 and the second belt 40 are spaced apart from each other relative to the vertical axis 88 of the agricultural machinery system. In addition, as previously described, the pair of opposing belts 36 are configured to transport the produce 12 along the downstream direction 74 toward the cavity of the baler. The initiating roller 66 is spaced apart from the first belt 38 by a gap 104 along the vertical axis 88. As previously described, the initiating roller 66 is configured to initiate the formation of the produce bale within the cavity. In addition, the conveying system 34 also includes a blocking bar 128 positioned adjacent to the first belt 38 and the initiating roller 66. The vertical extension of the blocking bar 128 at least partially overlaps the gap 104 relative to the vertical axis 88, and the blocking bar 128 is configured to block the produce within the cavity from passing through the gap along the upstream direction 130. As a result, the amount of produce that engages the top surface of the first belt 38 and moves toward the accumulator may be significantly reduced, thereby significantly reducing the accumulation of produce within the agricultural machinery system 10 and / or on certain components of the agricultural machinery system 10 (e.g., components that are not configured to interact with the produce).

[0051] As previously described, in some embodiments, the first exit roller 112 is movably coupled to the frame of the agricultural machine system via the first mounting assembly 116. Thus, the first exit roller 112 can move relative to the second exit roller 114 and relative to the vertical axis 88, thereby changing the extension of the gap 104 along the vertical axis 88. The vertical extension of the blocking rod 128 at least partially overlaps the gap 104 relative to the vertical axis 88 even if the extension of the gap 104 changes (e.g., between a maximum value and a minimum value determined by a mechanical stop).

[0052] Figure 4 It is available for Figure 3 Schematic diagram of a portion of one embodiment of a pad leveling system 106 for a conveyor system. As previously described, a second mounting assembly 122 includes a second pair of pivot arms 124 pivotally coupled to opposing lateral ends of a second exit roller 114 and pivotally coupled to a frame of the agricultural machinery system. As shown, one pivot arm 124 is pivotally coupled to a first lateral end 132 of the second exit roller 114 and the other pivot arm 124 is pivotally coupled to a second lateral end 134 of the second exit roller 114. In the illustrated embodiment, the second pair of pivot arms 124 can rotate independently of one another relative to the frame of the agricultural machinery system. Thus, the second exit roller 114 can rotate about an axis 136 extending in a translational direction (e.g., due to a mass of high-density material passing through the exit of the pair of opposing belts).

[0053] The second outlet roller 114 can be pivotally connected to each pivot arm 124 by any suitable type of connector 138 to facilitate the rotation of the second outlet roller 114 around the axis 136. For example, in some embodiments, each connector 138 may include a universal joint, a spherical bearing, a flexible shaft or other suitable type of connector. Although in the illustrated embodiment, the second pair of pivot arms 124 are configured to rotate independently of each other, in other embodiments, the second pair of pivot arms can be fixedly connected to each other so that the pivot arms rotate together. In such an embodiment, each connector between the second outlet roller and the corresponding pivot arm may include a ball bearing assembly, a bushing assembly, etc. (for example, such a connector may be less complex and expensive than a connector configured to enable the second outlet roller to pivot around an axis extending in the translation direction). In addition, in some embodiments, the conveying system may include a plurality of second outlet rollers distributed in a lateral direction (for example, each second outlet roller is movably connected to the frame of the agricultural machinery system by a corresponding pair of pivot arms). Although the second mounting assembly 122 is disclosed above, in embodiments where the first outlet roller is movably and rotatably connected to the frame of the agricultural machinery system via the first mounting assembly, the first mounting assembly may have any structure and / or variation disclosed above to movably connect the first outlet roller to the frame of the agricultural machinery system.

[0054] Figure 5A1 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a mounting assembly (e.g., second mounting assembly 122) that may be used for a pad leveling system. In the illustrated embodiment, second biasing assembly 126 includes a flexible element 140 disposed between a support 142 of a frame of an agricultural machine system and a mount 144 of a pivot arm 124 of a second pair of pivot arms 124. The mount 144 of the pivot arm 124 is configured to rotate about the support 142, thereby enabling the second exit roller 114 to move relative to the first exit roller. In addition, the flexible element 140 of the second biasing assembly 126 is configured to urge the pivot arm 124 to rotate toward the first belt, thereby urging the second exit roller 114 toward the first belt. In the illustrated embodiment, second biasing assembly 126 includes four flexible elements 140. However, in other embodiments, second biasing assembly 126 may include more or fewer flexible elements (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, or more). Furthermore, in some embodiments, the second biasing assembly may further include other / additional suitable biasing devices configured to urge the second exit roller toward the first belt. In some embodiments, the second biasing assembly may further include a flexible element disposed between a support of the frame of the agricultural machinery system and a mounting seat of the other pivot arm of the second pair of pivot arms. Furthermore, while the above discloses that the pivot arm is pivotably coupled to the support of the frame of the agricultural machinery system via the mounting seat, in other embodiments, at least one pivot arm may be pivotably coupled to the frame of the agricultural machinery system via other suitable connecting elements.

[0055] In the illustrated embodiment, the second mounting assembly 122 includes a second inward mechanical stop 146 configured to block the second outlet roller 114 from moving toward the first belt. During normal operation, the second biasing assembly 126 can drive the second outlet roller 114 to the illustrated operating position, in which the second inward mechanical stop 146 blocks the second outlet roller 114 from moving toward the first belt. When the second outlet roller 114 is in the operating position, the downstream end of the second belt can be maintained in a fixed position, thereby leveling the top surface of the pad and reducing the variation in the thickness of the pad. In the illustrated embodiment, the second inward mechanical stop 146 includes a hook configured to engage with the corresponding pivot arm 124. However, in other embodiments, the second inward mechanical stop may include any other suitable structure / device configured to block the second outlet roller from moving toward the first belt, such as a slot end configured to engage with a bearing / joint connecting the pivot arm to the second outlet roller, etc. In addition, in some embodiments, the second inward mechanical stop may be integrally formed with the support member and / or the mounting seat. For example, as the mount rotates about the support (eg, due to the shape / configuration of the mount and the support), contact between the mount and the support may block movement of the second exit roller toward the first belt.

[0056] In the illustrated embodiment, the second mounting assembly 122 includes a second outward mechanical stop 148 that is configured to block movement of the second outlet roller 114 away from the first belt. In the illustrated embodiment, the second outward mechanical stop 148 includes a hook configured to engage with the corresponding pivot arm 124. However, in other embodiments, the second outward mechanical stop may include any suitable structure / device configured to block movement of the second outlet roller away from the first belt, such as a groove end configured to engage with a bearing / joint connecting the pivot arm to the second outlet roller, etc. In addition, in some embodiments, the second outward mechanical stop may be integrally formed with the support and / or the mount. For example, when the mount rotates about the support (e.g., due to the shape / configuration of the mount and the support), contact between the mount and the support may block movement of the second outlet roller away from the first belt. Although in the illustrated embodiment, the second mounting assembly 122 includes a second inward mechanical stop 146 and a second outward mechanical stop 148, in certain embodiments, the second inward mechanical stop and / or the second outward mechanical stop may be omitted. In addition, although the second mounting assembly 122 is disclosed above, in embodiments in which the first outlet roller is movably and rotatably coupled to the frame of the agricultural machinery system via the first mounting assembly, the first mounting assembly may have any of the structures and / or variations disclosed above (e.g., with respect to the biasing assembly, the inward mechanical stop, the outward mechanical stop, etc.) to movably couple the first outlet roller to the frame of the agricultural machinery system.

[0057] Figure 5Bis a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a mounting assembly (e.g., second mounting assembly 122') that can be used for a pad leveling system. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the second pair of pivot arms 124' is pivotally coupled to the frame of the agricultural machine system, thereby enabling the second outlet roller 114 to move relative to the first outlet roller. In addition, in the illustrated embodiment, the second biasing assembly 126' includes a shaft 145 and a spring 147 disposed about the shaft 145. In the illustrated embodiment, the spring 147 is positioned between a fastener 149 coupled to the shaft 145 and a plate 151 coupled to the pivot arm 124'. The spring 147 is configured to urge the pivot arm 124' to rotate toward the first belt, thereby urging the second outlet roller 114 toward the first belt. In the illustrated embodiment, the second biasing assembly 126' includes a single spring 147. However, in other embodiments, the second biasing assembly may include more springs (e.g., 2, 3, 4, or more). In addition, although in the illustrated embodiment, the spring 147 is disposed about the shaft 145, in other embodiments, the shaft may be omitted and the spring may be coupled to the pivot arm and the frame of the agricultural machine system. In some embodiments, the second biasing assembly may further include a spring configured to urge the other pivot arm of the second pair of pivot arms to rotate toward the first band. In addition, in some embodiments, the second mounting assembly 122' may include the above reference Figure 5A The second inward mechanical stop and / or the second outward mechanical stop. Although the second mounting assembly 122' is disclosed above, in embodiments where the first outlet roller is movably and rotatably coupled to the frame of the agricultural machinery system via the first mounting assembly, the first mounting assembly may have any structure and / or variation disclosed above (e.g., with respect to the biasing assembly, etc.) to movably couple the first outlet roller to the frame of the agricultural machinery system.

[0058] Figure 6 It is available for Figure 3Schematic diagram of one embodiment of a barrier bar 128 of a conveyor system 34 of the agricultural machinery system. As previously described, the second belt 40 is spaced apart from the first belt 38 relative to the vertical axis 88, and the first belt and the second belt are configured to transport the agricultural product along the downstream direction 74 to the cavity 54 of the baler. In addition, the starter roller 66 is spaced apart from the first belt 38 by a gap 104 along the vertical axis 88. As used herein with respect to the vertical spacing between the first belt 38 and the starter roller 66, "gap" refers to the minimum vertical distance between the first belt 38 and the starter roller 66. In the illustrated embodiment, the first exit roller 112 is fixedly and rotatably coupled to the frame of the agricultural machinery system. However, in embodiments where the first exit roller is movably coupled to the frame of the agricultural machinery system via a first mounting assembly, the first exit roller can be moved relative to the second exit roller, relative to the vertical axis 88, thereby changing the extension of the gap 104 along the vertical axis 88. In these embodiments, "gap" refers to the current or instantaneous minimum vertical distance between the first belt and the starter roller. As previously described, the initiation roller 66 is configured to initiate the formation of a produce bale within the cavity 54 of the baler 20 .

[0059] In addition, the blocking bar 128 is positioned near the first belt 38 and the start roller 66. As used herein with respect to the first spacing between the blocking bar 128 and the first belt 38 and the second spacing between the blocking bar 128 and the start roller 66, "near" refers to a spacing less than a threshold distance, thereby substantially blocking the flow of agricultural products between the blocking bar 128 and the first belt 38 and between the blocking bar 128 and the start roller 66. For example, the threshold distance can be 5 cm, 4 cm, 3 cm, 2 cm, 1 cm, 0.5 cm or 0.25 cm. In addition, the first spacing between the blocking bar 128 and the first belt 38 and the second spacing between the blocking bar 128 and the start roller 66 can be selected to significantly reduce or eliminate the possibility of contact between the start roller 66 and the blocking bar 128 and between the first belt 38 and the blocking bar 128 during operation of the agricultural machinery system.

[0060] In addition, the vertical extension range of the blocking rod 128 (e.g., the extension range of the blocking rod along the vertical axis 88) overlaps the gap 104 at least partially relative to the vertical axis 88. In the illustrated embodiment, the blocking rod 128 completely overlaps the gap 104 relative to the vertical axis 88. However, in other embodiments, the blocking rod may only overlap the gap portion relative to the vertical axis. For example, in some embodiments, the gap can extend vertically above the blocking rod, or extend vertically below the blocking rod. As previously described, the blocking rod 128 is configured to block the agricultural products in the cavity 54 from passing through the gap 104 along the upstream direction 130. Therefore, the amount of agricultural products that engage with the top surface of the first belt and move toward the accumulator may be greatly reduced, thereby greatly reducing the accumulation of agricultural products in the agricultural machinery system 10 and / or on certain components of the agricultural machinery system 10 (e.g., components that are not configured to interact with agricultural products).

[0061] In the illustrated embodiment, the entire barrier bar 128 is positioned downstream of the first belt 38 (e.g., relative to the downstream direction 74). In addition, in the illustrated embodiment, the barrier bar 128 has a first portion 150 and a second portion 152. The first portion 150 is configured to engage with the produce downstream of the first belt 38 (e.g., relative to the downstream direction 74). In addition, the second portion 152 extends from the first portion 150 toward the starter roller 66. The first portion 150 is configured to block the produce from contacting the starter roller 66 before the produce moves into the cavity 54. Therefore, the amount of produce that forms a bale may be increased, and the amount of produce that moves through the gap 104 in the upstream direction 130 due to the rotation of the starter roller 66 in the starter roller rotation direction 154 may be reduced. In the illustrated embodiment, the first portion 150 is inclined upward along the downstream direction 74. Therefore, when the produce exits through the outlet 44 of the pair of opposing belts 36 along the downstream direction 74, the first portion 150 enables the produce to expand. In addition, relative to the first belt's first rotational direction, first portion 150 is oriented at an obtuse angle to an adjacent tangent line to first belt 38. Thus, first portion 150 can strip produce from the first belt and direct produce away from the first belt. In addition, relative to the starter roller rotational direction 154, second portion 152 is oriented at an obtuse angle to an adjacent tangent line to starter roller 66. Thus, second portion 152 can strip produce from starter roller 66 and direct produce away from the starter roller, thereby increasing the efficiency of starter roller 66 and increasing the produce available for forming a bale.

[0062] Although in the illustrated embodiment, the first portion 150 of the blocking bar 128 is tilted upward along the downstream direction 74, in other embodiments, the first portion can be non-inclined (for example, the first portion can be perpendicular to the vertical axis 88). In addition, although in the illustrated embodiment, the second portion 152 of the blocking bar 128 extends toward the start roller 66 from the first portion 150 of the blocking bar 128, in other embodiments, the second portion can extend along another suitable direction. In addition, although in the illustrated embodiment, each part of the blocking bar is straight, in other embodiments, at least one part of the blocking bar can be curved or have other suitable shapes. Although in the illustrated embodiment, the blocking bar 128 comprises two parts, in other embodiments, the blocking bar can comprise more or less parts (for example 1,3,4,5,6 or more).

[0063] In the illustrated embodiment, the blocking bar 128 is coupled to the frame 156 of the agricultural machinery system by a fastener connection. However, in other embodiments, the blocking bar can be coupled to the frame of the agricultural machinery system by other suitable types of connections (e.g., alone or in combination with fastener connections), such as welded connections, adhesive connections, press-fit connections, other suitable types of connections, or combinations thereof. In addition, although in the illustrated embodiment, the blocking bar 128 is coupled to the frame 156 of the agricultural machinery system, in other embodiments, the blocking bar can be coupled to any other suitable component of the agricultural machinery system (e.g., alone or in combination with the frame of the baler).

[0064] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 156. In the embodiment shown in the figure, the blocking rod 128 extends across the entire lateral range of the gap (for example, along the entire gap range of the lateral axis 158 of the agricultural machinery system). In addition, in the embodiment shown in the figure, the blocking rod 128 is connected to the relative lateral side of the frame 156. However, in other embodiments, the blocking rod can be connected to the single lateral side of the frame, the blocking rod can be connected to another suitable part of the frame, the blocking rod can be connected to another suitable structure of the agricultural machinery system, or a combination thereof. In addition, although in the embodiment shown in the figure, the blocking rod 128 extends across the entire lateral range of the gap, in other embodiments, the blocking rod can extend along a part of the lateral range of the gap. For example, in certain embodiments, the conveying system can include a plurality of blocking rods, and each blocking rod can extend along a part of the lateral range of the gap. In addition, in certain embodiments, the conveying system can include a plurality of blocking rods, wherein at least two blocking rods overlap relative to the lateral axis of the agricultural machinery system.

[0065] In the illustrated embodiment, the starter roller 66 includes a plurality of flutes 160 extending laterally (e.g., relative to the lateral axis 158) along the starter roller 66. When the starter roller rotates, the flutes 160 are configured to engage the produce to begin forming a bale within the cavity of the baler. In the illustrated embodiment, each flute 160 has a V-shape. The V-shape of each flute 160 can enhance the ability of the barrier bar 128 to peel the produce from the starter roller 66 when the starter roller 66 rotates. Although in the illustrated embodiment, each flute 160 has a V-shape, in other embodiments, at least one flute can have other suitable shapes (e.g., straight, wavy, etc.). For example, in some embodiments, each flute of the starter roller can be straight and extend along the axis of rotation of the starter roller. In addition, in some embodiments, the starter roller may not include flutes (e.g., the starter roller may be smooth, the starter roller may include protrusions, the starter roller may include thick textures, etc.).

[0066] In some embodiments, the delivery system 34 includes the pad leveling system and the blocking rod described above. However, in other embodiments, the delivery system may not include the pad leveling system, and / or the delivery system may not include the blocking rod. For example, in some embodiments, the delivery system may include the blocking rod but not the pad leveling system. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the delivery system may include the pad leveling system but not the blocking rod.

[0067] Although only certain features have been illustrated and described herein, many modifications and changes will occur to those skilled in the art. It is, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes as fall within the true spirit of the disclosure.

[0068] The technology presented and claimed herein is cited and applied to specific examples of material objects and actual properties that significantly advance the art and are therefore not abstract, intangible, or purely theoretical. In addition, if any claim appended at the end of this specification contains one or more elements designated as "means [that] perform...[function]" or "a step [that] performs...[function]," it is intended that such elements will be interpreted under 35 USC 112(f). However, it is intended that any claim containing elements designated in any other manner will not be interpreted under 35 USC 112(f).

Claims

1. A pad leveling system for a conveyor system of an agricultural harvester, comprising: a first exit roller configured to support a first belt of a pair of opposing belts, wherein the first exit roller is configured to be positioned at an exit of the pair of opposing belts; a second exit roller configured to support a second belt of the pair of opposing belts, wherein the second exit roller is configured to be positioned at an exit of the pair of opposing belts; as well as a first mounting assembly configured to enable movement of the first exit roller relative to the second exit roller and to urge the first exit roller toward the second belt to reduce variations in thickness of the mat of produce; a second mounting assembly configured to enable the second exit roller to move relative to the first exit roller and to urge the second exit roller toward the first belt to reduce variations in thickness of the mat of produce; or a combination thereof. 2 . The pad leveling system of claim 1 , wherein the first exit roller is a primary roller and the second exit roller is a secondary roller.

3. The pad leveling system of claim 1, wherein: The first mounting assembly includes a first pair of pivot arms pivotally coupled to opposing lateral ends of the first exit roller and configured to be pivotally coupled to a frame of an agricultural harvester; The second mounting assembly includes a second pair of pivot arms pivotally coupled to opposite lateral ends of the second exit roller and configured to be pivotally coupled to a frame of an agricultural harvester; or A combination of them.

4. The pad leveling system of claim 3, wherein the first pair of pivot arms are configured to pivot independently of each other relative to a frame of the agricultural harvester, the second pair of pivot arms are configured to pivot independently of each other relative to the frame of the agricultural harvester, or a combination thereof.

5. The pad leveling system of claim 1, wherein: The first mounting assembly includes a first biasing assembly configured to urge the first exit roller toward the second belt, the first biasing assembly including a flexible element, a spring, a hydraulic cylinder, a pneumatic cylinder, or a combination thereof; The second mounting assembly includes a second biasing assembly configured to urge the second exit roller toward the first belt, the second biasing assembly including a flexible element, a spring, a hydraulic cylinder, a pneumatic cylinder, or a combination thereof; or A combination of them.

6. The pad leveling system of claim 1, wherein: the first mounting assembly comprising a first inward mechanical stop configured to block movement of the first exit roller toward the second belt; the second mounting assembly comprising a second inward mechanical stop configured to block movement of the second exit roller toward the first belt; or A combination of them.

7. The pad leveling system of claim 1, wherein: the first mounting assembly comprising a first outward mechanical stop configured to block movement of the first exit roller away from the second belt; the second mounting assembly includes a second outward mechanical stop configured to block movement of the second exit roller away from the first belt; or A combination of them.

8. A conveying system for an agricultural harvester, comprising: a pair of opposing belts configured to compress and transport the agricultural produce from an accumulator of the agricultural harvester to a baler of the agricultural harvester, wherein the pair of opposing belts includes a first belt and a second belt; as well as A pad leveling system, the pad leveling system comprising: a first exit roller configured to support the first belt, wherein the first exit roller is positioned at an exit of the pair of opposing belts, the first exit roller being non-movably and rotatably coupled to a frame of the agricultural harvester; a second exit roller configured to support the second belt, wherein the second exit roller is positioned at an exit of the pair of opposing belts; and A mounting assembly is configured to enable movement of the second exit roller relative to the first exit roller and to urge the second exit roller toward the first belt to reduce variations in thickness of the mat of produce.

9. The conveying system of claim 8, wherein the first exit roller is a primary roller and the second exit roller is a secondary roller.

10. The conveying system of claim 8, wherein the mounting assembly includes a pair of pivot arms pivotally coupled to opposite lateral ends of the second exit roller and pivotally coupled to a frame of the agricultural harvester.

11. The conveyor system of claim 10, wherein the pair of pivot arms are configured to pivot independently of each other relative to a frame of the agricultural harvester.

12. The conveying system of claim 8, wherein the mounting assembly includes a biasing assembly configured to urge the second exit roller toward the first belt, the biasing assembly comprising a flexible element, a spring, a hydraulic cylinder, a pneumatic cylinder, or a combination thereof.

13. The delivery system according to claim 8, comprising: a starter roller spaced apart from the first belt by a gap along a vertical axis of the agricultural harvester, wherein the starter roller is configured to initiate formation of a bale of produce within a cavity of a baler, the pair of opposing belts being configured to transport the produce from the accumulator to the cavity of the baler in a downstream direction; as well as A blocking bar is positioned adjacent the first belt and the activation roller, wherein a vertical extension of the blocking bar at least partially overlaps the gap relative to the vertical axis, the blocking bar being configured to block agricultural produce within the cavity from passing through the gap in an upstream direction.

14. A conveyor system for an agricultural harvester, comprising: First Zone; a second belt spaced apart from the first belt relative to a vertical axis of the agricultural harvester, wherein the first belt and the second belt are configured to transport the produce in a downstream direction toward the cavity; an initiating roller spaced apart from the first belt by a gap along the vertical axis, wherein the initiating roller is configured to initiate formation of a bale of produce within the cavity; and A blocking bar is positioned adjacent the first belt and the activation roller, wherein a vertical extension of the blocking bar at least partially overlaps the gap relative to the vertical axis, the blocking bar being configured to block agricultural produce within the cavity from passing through the gap in an upstream direction.

15. The conveying system of claim 14, wherein the activation roller includes a plurality of grooves extending laterally along the activation roller.

16. The delivery system of claim 15, wherein each groove of the plurality of grooves has a V-shape.

17. The conveying system of claim 14, wherein the entirety of the barrier bar is positioned downstream of the first belt.

18. The conveyor system of claim 14, wherein the barrier bar has a first portion configured to engage produce downstream of the first belt.

19. The conveying system of claim 18, wherein the first portion is inclined upward in a downstream direction, the barrier bar has a second portion extending from the first portion toward the activation roller, or a combination thereof.

20. The conveying system of claim 14, wherein a first spacing between the barrier bar and the first belt is less than 2 cm, a second spacing between the barrier bar and the activation roller is less than 2 cm, or a combination thereof.

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