Bale wrap feed assembly for agricultural harvester

Abstract

A bale wrap feed assembly for an agricultural harvester includes a frame configured to move from a feed position to a loading position relative to a transverse axis of the agricultural harvester. In addition, the bale wrap feed assembly includes a fixed feed roller that is rotatably and immovably coupled to the frame, and the bale wrap feed assembly includes a movable feed roller that is rotatably and movably coupled to the frame. The movable feed roller is movable relative to the fixed feed roller between an engaged position and a disengaged position, the movable feed roller configured to be positioned proximate to the fixed feed roller when in the engaged position, and the movable feed roller configured to be positioned away from the fixed feed roller when in the disengaged position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to a bundle feeding assembly for an agricultural harvester. Background Technology

[0002] Agricultural harvesters are used to harvest agricultural products (e.g., cotton or one or more other natural materials). For example, an agricultural harvester may include a harvesting platform with rollers 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 rollers to an accumulator. The agricultural products can then be fed into a baler via a conveying system. The baler can compress the agricultural products into bales for storage, transport, and handling. For example, a round bale baler can compress the agricultural products into round bales within a baling chamber, such that the bales have a desired size and density. After bale formation, the bales can be wrapped with bale wrapping material to secure the agricultural products within the bale and substantially maintain the shape of the bale. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In some embodiments, a bale / package feeding assembly for an agricultural harvester includes a frame configured to move from a feeding position to a loading position relative to the lateral axis of the harvester. Additionally, the bale / package feeding assembly includes a fixed feed roller rotatably and nonmovably coupled to the frame, and a movable feed roller rotatably and movably coupled to the frame. The movable feed roller is movable relative to the fixed feed roller between an engaged position and a disengaged position. In the engaged position, the movable feed roller is positioned close to the fixed feed roller to feed bale / packages between the movable and fixed feed rollers, and in the disengaged position, it is positioned away from the fixed feed roller to load the bale / packages between the movable and fixed feed rollers. The bale / package feeding assembly also includes a fixed feed roller gear nonmovably coupled to the fixed feed roller. Furthermore, the package feeding assembly includes a movable feed roller gear non-rotatably coupled to the movable feed roller. The movable feed roller gear is configured to engage the fixed feed roller gear when the movable feed roller is in the engaged position, thereby enabling the fixed feed roller to rotate to drive the rotation of the movable feed roller. Attached Figure Description

[0004] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of this disclosure will become better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the same characters throughout the drawings denote the same parts, wherein:

[0005] Figure 1This is a side view of an embodiment of an agricultural machinery system having agricultural product transport components and a baler;

[0006] Figure 2 It is possible Figure 1 Schematic diagrams of embodiments of agricultural product transport components and balers used in agricultural machinery systems;

[0007] Figure 3 It is possible Figure 1 A perspective view of an embodiment of a bundle feeding assembly used in an agricultural machinery system, wherein the frame of the bundle feeding assembly is in the feeding position;

[0008] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A perspective view of the packaged goods being fed into the assembly, with the frame in the loading position;

[0009] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of a portion of the package feeding assembly;

[0010] Figure 6 yes Figure 3 A perspective view of a portion of the package feeding component;

[0011] Figure 7 yes Figure 3 A perspective view of the bundled package being fed into another part of the component; and

[0012] Figure 8 yes Figure 3 A perspective view of another part of the packaged goods feeding component. Detailed Implementation

[0013] One or more specific embodiments of this disclosure will now be described. To provide a concise description of these embodiments, not all features of the actual implementation may 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, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developer's specific objectives, such as complying with system-related and business-related constraints that may vary depending on the implementation. Furthermore, it should be understood that such development efforts can be complex and time-consuming, but remain routine tasks of design, fabrication, and manufacturing for those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure.

[0014] When describing elements of various embodiments of this disclosure, the articles “a,” “the,” and “the” are intended to indicate the presence of one or more elements. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean that additional elements may be present in addition to those listed. Any examples of operating parameters and / or environmental conditions do not exclude other parameters / conditions of the disclosed embodiments.

[0015] Figure 1 This is a side view of an embodiment of an agricultural machinery system 10 (e.g., a harvester, agricultural harvester) having an agricultural product transport assembly 11 and a baler. The agricultural machinery system 10 is configured to harvest agricultural products 12 (e.g., cotton) from a field 14 and form the agricultural products 12 into bales (e.g., agricultural bales). In the illustrated embodiment, the agricultural machinery system 10 includes a harvesting platform 16 having rollers configured to harvest agricultural products 12 from the field 14. Additionally, the agricultural product transport assembly 11 of the agricultural machinery system 10 includes an air-assisted conveying system 18 configured to move the agricultural products 12 from the rollers of the harvesting platform 16 to an accumulator assembly of the agricultural product transport assembly 11. The agricultural product transport assembly 11 also includes a conveying system configured to convey the agricultural products 12 from the accumulator assembly to a baler 20 (e.g., an agricultural baler). The baler 20 is supported by and / or mounted within or on the chassis of the agricultural machinery system 10. The baler 20 can form the agricultural products 12 into round bales. However, in other embodiments, the baler 20 of the agricultural machinery system 10 can form agricultural products into square bundles, polygonal bundles, or (one or more) other suitable shapes. After the agricultural products 12 are formed into bundles, the bundling system of the agricultural machinery system 10 wraps the bundles with a bundling wrapping material to secure the agricultural products 12 inside the bundles and substantially maintain the shape of the bundles.

[0016] As discussed in detail below, the agricultural machinery system 10 includes a bale / package feeding assembly configured to feed bales / packages toward the bale / package. The bale / package feeding assembly includes a frame configured to move from a feeding position to a loading position relative to the transverse axis of the agricultural machinery system 10. The bale / package feeding assembly also includes a fixed feed roller rotatably and immovably coupled to the frame. Additionally, the bale / package feeding assembly includes a movable feed roller rotatably and movablely coupled to the frame. The movable feed roller is movable relative to the fixed feed roller between an engaged position and a disengaged position. The movable feed roller is configured to be positioned close to the feed roller in the engaged position to feed bales / packages between the movable and fixed feed rollers, and to be positioned away from the fixed feed roller in the disengaged position to load bales / packages between the movable and fixed feed rollers. Furthermore, the package feeding assembly includes a fixed feed roller gear non-rotatably coupled to a fixed feed roller, and a movable feed roller gear non-rotatably coupled to a movable feed roller. The movable feed roller gear is configured to engage the fixed feed roller gear when the movable feed roller is in the engaged position, thereby enabling the fixed feed roller to rotate and drive the rotation of the movable feed roller.

[0017] To load bundled parcels into the bundled parcel feed assembly, the frame moves from a feed position to a loading position, and the movable feed roller moves from an engaged position to a disengaged position. The bundled parcels are then loaded between the movable and fixed feed rollers, and the movable feed roller moves from the disengaged position to the engaged position. Because the frame is in the loading position, the operator can access the entire lateral range of the feed rollers, facilitating efficient loading of bundled parcels between the feed rollers. Furthermore, the ability to move the frame to the loading position enhances access to multiple components of the bundled parcel feed assembly, facilitating maintenance and repair operations. Additionally, since the movable feed roller is driven by a gear connection to the fixed feed roller, both the movable and fixed feed rollers can be driven by a common drive, allowing the movable feed roller to move between the engaged and disengaged positions.

[0018] Figure 2 It is possible Figure 1Schematic diagrams of embodiments of the agricultural product transport assembly 11 and the baler 20 used within the agricultural machinery system 10. As previously described, the harvester 16 of the agricultural machinery system 10 includes rollers configured to harvest agricultural products 12 (e.g., cotton) from the field. Furthermore, an air-assisted conveying system 18 is configured to move the agricultural products 12 from the rollers of the harvester 16 to an accumulator assembly 26. In the illustrated embodiment, the air-assisted conveying system 18 includes a conveying air source 28 configured to output a conveying airflow through one or more conduits 30. Each conduit 30 receives the agricultural product 12 (e.g., cotton) from the harvester 16 and is driven by the conveying airflow output from the conveying air source 28 through the conduits 30 from the harvester 16 to the accumulator assembly 26. In the illustrated embodiment, the agricultural product transport assembly 11 includes a screw conveyor 32 configured to laterally distribute the agricultural products 12 (e.g., cotton) onto the accumulator assembly 26 (e.g., laterally to the downward movement of the agricultural products through the accumulator assembly). In the illustrated embodiment, the agricultural product transport assembly 11 includes two screw conveyors 32. However, in other embodiments, the agricultural product transport assembly may include more or fewer screw conveyors (e.g., 0, 1, 3, 4 or more).

[0019] In the illustrated embodiment, the conveying system 34 of the agricultural product transport system 11 includes a first belt (e.g., a belt) 36 configured to move agricultural product 12 from the accumulator assembly 26 to the baler 20. The first belt 36 is configured to rotate in a first rotational direction such that the agricultural product contact surface of the first belt 36 moves toward the baler 20. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the conveying system 34 includes a second belt 38 located on the side of the agricultural product 12 opposite to the first belt 36, and the second belt 38 is configured to cooperate with the first belt 36 to move the agricultural product 12 from the accumulator assembly 26 to the baler 20. Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment, the conveying system 34 includes an agitator roller 40 positioned upstream of the first belt 36. The agitator roller 40 is configured to agitate the agricultural product 12 entering the pair of opposing belts, thereby enhancing the uniformity of the distribution of the agricultural product across the pair of opposing belts.

[0020] In the illustrated embodiment, the baler 20 includes a plurality of rollers 42 that support and / or drive the rotation of one or more belts 44. For example, one or more rollers 42 engage one or more belts 44, enabling the belts 44 to move along a path defined by the rollers 42 and the bales 46. The one or more rollers 42 are driven to rotate via a belt drive system (e.g., including one or more electric motors, one or more hydraulic motors, one or more pneumatic motors, etc.). The belts 44 circulate around the path defined by the rollers 42 and the bales 46. The movement of the belts 44 captures produce 12 from the conveyor system 34 and pulls the produce 12 into a cavity 48, in which the produce 12 gradually accumulates to form bales 46.

[0021] In the illustrated embodiment, the baler 20 includes a tension arm 50 configured to establish tension within one or more strips 44. As produce 12 accumulates within the cavity 48, the produce 12 exerts a force on one or more strips 44, causing a first portion 52 of the strips 44 surrounding the bale 46 to expand. Simultaneously, the dimensions of a second portion 54 (e.g., a serpentine portion) of the strips 44 decrease. Thus, the second portion 54 of the strips 44 provides an increased strip length for the expanded first portion 52. In the illustrated embodiment, the second portion 54 of the strips 44 is established by a fixed roller 42 (e.g., a roller fixed to the housing / frame of the baler 20) and a roller 42 coupled to the tension arm 50, which is pivotable relative to the fixed roller 42 (e.g., relative to the housing / frame of the baler 20). Thus, as produce 12 accumulates within the cavity 48, the tension arm 50 is driven to rotate, thereby reducing the dimensions of the second portion 54 and allowing the first portion 52 to expand.

[0022] Once the bale 46 reaches the desired size, the bale wrapping system 56 wraps the bale 46 with the bale wrapping material 58 to secure the produce within the bale 46 and generally maintain the shape of the bale 46, such as the circular shape in the illustrated embodiment. In other embodiments, the bale shape may be rectangular, polygonal, or another suitable shape. One or more feed rollers may be used to feed the bale wrapping material 58 into contact with the bale 46. The feed rollers drive the bale wrapping material 58 toward the start roller 60. The start roller 60 is configured to rotate to drive the bale wrapping material 58 into contact with the bale 46. The bale wrapping material 58 is caught between the bale 46 and (one or more) straps 44. Thus, the rotation of the bale 46 pulls the bale wrapping material 58 around the bale 46, thereby wrapping the bale 46. After the bale 46 is wrapped, the bale 46 is discharged from the baler 20, and the process of forming subsequent balers can begin.

[0023] In some embodiments, during the harvesting process, the conveyor system 34 and baler 20 can be periodically activated to transfer produce 12 from the accumulator assembly 26 to the baler 20 and form bales 46. For example, produce 12 may accumulate within the accumulator assembly 26 as the agricultural machinery system 10 traverses the field. After a selected duration, the conveyor system 34 can be activated to transfer produce 12 from the accumulator assembly 26 to the baler 20. For example, the conveyor system 34 can move produce 12 toward the baler 20 at a significantly faster rate than the air-assisted conveyor system 18 moves produce 12 into the accumulator assembly 26. Simultaneously with the activation of the conveyor system 34, the baler 20 can be activated to begin the bale-forming process as described above. After another selected duration, the conveyor system 34 and baler 20 can be deactivated to allow the accumulator assembly 26 to collect any additional produce 12. In some embodiments, the conveyor assembly 34 and baler 20 may be activated four or five times to allow the bales 46 to reach the desired size. As previously described, once the bale reaches the desired size, the bale wrapping system 56 wraps the bale 46 with the bale wrapping material 58. Because the conveyor system 34 and the baler 20 are periodically activated, the agricultural machinery system 10 can utilize less energy during the harvesting process (e.g., compared to continuously operating the conveyor system and the baler).

[0024] In the illustrated embodiment, the agricultural machinery system 10 includes a bundling assembly storage compartment 62 configured to store a plurality of bundling assemblies 64. In some embodiments, each bundling assembly 64 includes a shaft and bundling material arranged around the shaft to form a roll of bundled package. However, in other embodiments, the shaft may be omitted, and the bundled package may be arranged in a roll (e.g., having a hollow area at the center).

[0025] Furthermore, as discussed in detail below, the agricultural machinery system 10 (e.g., the bundling system 56 of the agricultural machinery system 10) includes a bundling feed assembly configured to receive an active bundling assembly 66 from a bundling assembly storage compartment 62 and feed the bundled bundle 58 of the active bundling assembly 66 toward a bundle 46 (e.g., toward an starter roller 60). The bundling feed assembly includes a frame configured to move from a feed position to a loading position relative to the transverse axis of the agricultural machinery system 10, and the bundling feed assembly is configured to receive the active bundling assembly 66 when the frame is in the feed position. Additionally, the bundling feed assembly includes a fixed feed roller rotatably and immovably coupled to the frame, and a movable feed roller rotatably and movably coupled to the frame. The movable feed roller is movable relative to the fixed feed roller between an engaged position and a disengaged position. The movable feed roller is configured to be positioned close to the fixed feed roller when in the engaged position to feed the bundled package 58 of the movable bundling assembly 66 between the movable feed roller and the fixed feed roller, and the movable feed roller is configured to be positioned away from the fixed feed roller when in the disengaged position to load the bundled package 58 of the movable bundling assembly 66 between the movable feed roller and the fixed feed roller. Furthermore, the bundled package feeding assembly includes a fixed feed roller gear non-rotatably coupled to the fixed feed roller, and the bundled package feeding assembly includes a movable feed roller gear non-rotatably coupled to the movable feed roller. The movable feed roller gear is configured to engage the fixed feed roller gear when the movable feed roller is in the engaged position, enabling the fixed feed roller to rotate to drive the rotation of the movable feed roller.

[0026] To load the bundled parcels from the movable bundling assembly 66 into the bundled parcel feed assembly, the frame moves from a feed position to a loading position, and the movable feed roller moves from an engaged position to a disengaged position. The bundled parcels are then loaded between the movable feed roller and the fixed feed roller, and the movable feed roller moves from the disengaged position to the engaged position. Because the frame is in the loading position, the operator can access the entire lateral range of the feed rollers, facilitating efficient loading of bundled parcels between the feed rollers. Furthermore, the ability to move the frame to the loading position enhances access to multiple components of the bundled parcel feed assembly, facilitating maintenance and repair operations (e.g., repairing the movable bundling assembly, reloading bundled parcels between the fixed feed roller and the movable feed roller, removing the movable bundling assembly, cleaning components of the bundled parcel feed assembly, etc.). Moreover, since the movable feed roller is driven by a gear connection to the fixed feed roller, the movable and fixed feed rollers can be driven by a common drive, allowing the movable feed roller to move between the engaged and disengaged positions.

[0027] Figure 3 It is possible Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an embodiment of a bale and parcel feeding assembly 68 used in an agricultural machinery system, wherein the frame 70 of the bale and parcel feeding assembly 68 is in the feeding position. As previously described, the bale and parcel storage compartment 62 is configured to store a plurality of bale and parcel assemblies 64. Furthermore, the bale and parcel storage compartment 62 is configured to feed movable bale and parcel assemblies 66 downward relative to the vertical axis 72 of the agricultural machinery system to the bale and parcel feeding assembly 68. The bale and parcel feeding assembly 68 is configured to receive movable bale and parcel assemblies 66 from the bale and parcel storage compartment 62 when the frame 70 is in the feeding position shown. Additionally, when the frame 70 is in the feeding position shown, the bale and parcel feeding assembly 68 is configured to feed the bale and parcel of the movable bale and parcel assemblies 66 toward the longitudinal axis 74 of the agricultural machinery system. Although in the illustrated embodiment the bundle / package feed assembly 68 is configured to receive the active bundle / package assembly 66 from the bundle / package assembly storage compartment 62, in other embodiments the bundle / package assembly storage compartment may be omitted. In such an embodiment, the bundle / package feed assembly can receive the active bundle / package when the frame is in the loading position.

[0028] As previously described, frame 70 is configured to move relative to the transverse axis 76 between the shown feed position and loading position. As discussed in detail below, when frame 70 is in the loading position, the bundled package of the movable bundling assembly 66 can be loaded via the feed rollers of the bundled package feed assembly 68. In the illustrated embodiment, the bundled package feed assembly 68 includes a motor 78 (e.g., a frame drive motor) configured to drive frame 70 to move between the shown feed position and loading position. Motor 78 may include an electric motor, a pneumatic motor, a hydraulic motor, another suitable type of motor, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, a track is coupled to the frame, a gear is coupled to the motor shaft, and the gear engages with the track. The motor is configured to drive the gear to rotate, thereby driving the frame to move relative to the transverse axis. However, in other embodiments, another suitable mechanism (e.g., a screw driver, etc.) enables the motor to drive the frame to move relative to the transverse axis. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the bundled package feed assembly may include another suitable actuator (e.g., an electric linear actuator, a hydraulic cylinder, a pneumatic cylinder, etc.) configured to drive the frame to move relative to the transverse axis. Additionally, in some embodiments, the package feeding assembly may not include any means (e.g., motors, actuators, etc.) configured to drive the frame to move between a feed position and a loading position. In such embodiments, an operator can manually move the frame between the feed position and the loading position relative to the lateral axis.

[0029] In the illustrated embodiment, the bundled package feed assembly 68 includes a track assembly 80 configured to guide the frame 70 relative to the transverse axis 76 between a feed position and a loading position. In the illustrated embodiment, the bundled package feed assembly 68 includes two track assemblies 80 positioned on opposite longitudinal sides of the frame 70. However, in other embodiments, the bundled package feed assembly may include more or fewer track assemblies (e.g., 1, 3, 4, or more), and each track assembly may be positioned at any suitable location on the frame. Additionally, although the bundled package feed assembly 68 includes track assemblies 80 in the illustrated embodiment, in other embodiments, the bundled package feed assembly may include any other suitable components (e.g., alone or in combination with one or more track assemblies) to guide the movement of the frame relative to the transverse axis, such as one or more slot and recess assemblies, one or more protrusion and recess assemblies, etc.

[0030] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A perspective view of the bundled parcel feed assembly 68, with frame 70 in the loading position. As previously described, the bundled parcel feed assembly 68 includes a fixed feed roller 82 rotatably and immovably coupled to frame 70, and a movable feed roller 84 rotatably and movably coupled to frame 70. Additionally, the movable feed roller 84 is movable relative to the fixed feed roller 82 between an engaged position and a disengaged position, as shown. The movable feed roller 84 is configured to be positioned close to the fixed feed roller 82 in the engaged position to facilitate feeding the bundled parcels of the movable bundled parcel assembly 66 between the movable feed roller 84 and the fixed feed roller 82. Furthermore, the movable feed roller 84 is configured to be positioned away from the fixed feed roller 82 in the disengaged position to facilitate loading the bundled parcels of the movable bundled parcel assembly 66 between the movable feed roller 84 and the fixed feed roller 82. The package feeding assembly 68 also includes a fixed feed roller gear 86 non-rotatably coupled to the fixed feed roller 82. Additionally, the package feeding assembly 68 includes a movable feed roller gear 88 non-rotatably coupled to the movable feed roller 84. The movable feed roller gear 88 is configured to engage the fixed feed roller gear 86 when the movable feed roller 84 is in the shown engaged position, thereby enabling the fixed feed roller 82 to rotate and drive the rotation of the movable feed roller 84.

[0031] With frame 70 in the loading position shown, the bundled package of movable bundling assembly 66 can be loaded into bundled package feed assembly 68. To facilitate the bundled package loading process, movable feed roller 84 moves from the engaged position to the disengaged position shown. The bundled package of movable bundling assembly 66 is then loaded between movable feed roller 84 and fixed feed roller 82. With frame 70 in the loading position shown, the operator can access the entire lateral range of the feed rollers, facilitating efficient loading of bundled packages between the feed rollers. Furthermore, the ability to move frame 70 to the loading position shown enhances access to multiple components of the bundled package feed assembly, facilitating maintenance and repair operations. Additionally, in some embodiments, the bundled package feed assembly 68 can receive movable bundling assembly 66 when the frame is in the loading position shown (e.g., when a type of bundled package not present in the bundled package storage compartment is required, when the bundled package storage compartment is empty, in embodiments where the agricultural machinery system does not include a bundled package storage compartment, etc.).

[0032] After the bundled parcels are loaded between the feed rollers, the movable feed roller 84 can move from the disengaged position to the engaged position shown. As a result, the movable feed roller gear 88 engages the fixed feed roller gear 86, thereby enabling rotation of the fixed feed roller 82 to drive rotation of the movable feed roller 84. The frame 70 can then be moved relative to the transverse axis 76 from the loading position shown to the feed position. For example, the motor disclosed above can drive the frame from the loading position to the feed position. With the frame in the feed position, the bundled parcel feed assembly 68 can feed the bundled parcels from the movable bundled parcel assembly 66 toward the bundled parcels.

[0033] Figure 5 yes Figure 3A cross-sectional view of a portion of the bundled package feeding assembly 68. In the illustrated embodiment, the bundled package feeding assembly 68 includes a first support roller 90 and a second support roller 92. Each support roller is rotatably and immovably coupled to a frame 70, and the first and second support rollers are configured to support a movable bundled package assembly 66 within the bundled package feeding assembly 68. Therefore, the bundled package loading process includes receiving the movable bundled package assembly 66 onto the first support roller 90 and the second support roller 92. The frame 70 then moves relative to a transverse axis from a feed position to a loading position. Next, the first support roller 90 and the second support roller 92 rotate (e.g., by a motor) to drive the movable bundled package assembly 66 to rotate such that one end (e.g., the front end) of the bundled package 58 of the movable bundled package assembly 66 is positioned at a target position 96. In some embodiments, this end of the bundled package is connected to another portion of the bundled package (e.g., via tape, via adhesive, etc.) to facilitate the transport and storage of the bundled package assembly. Therefore, positioning this end of the bundle at the target location 96 allows the operator to disconnect the connection between this end of the bundle and one or more other parts of the bundle, thereby enabling the bundle to be loaded into the bundle feed assembly 68.

[0034] After the movable feed roller 84 is moved to the disengaged position (shown in dashed lines), the operator moves the bundled package 58 around the first support roller 90, positioning the bundled package 58 laterally outward from the support roller. The bundled package 58 can then be loaded between the movable feed roller 84 and the fixed feed roller 82, such that, as shown in dashed lines, the bundled package 58 is positioned relative to the longitudinal axis 74 between the movable feed roller 84 and the fixed feed roller 82. Next, the movable feed roller 84 is moved to the engaged position (shown in solid lines), thereby capturing the bundled package 58 (shown in solid lines) between the movable feed roller 84 and the fixed feed roller 82. As previously discussed, moving the movable feed roller 84 to the engaged position causes the movable feed roller gear to engage the fixed feed roller gear, thereby enabling the fixed feed roller 82 to rotate to drive the rotation of the movable feed roller 84.

[0035] In the illustrated embodiment, the bundled package feeding assembly 68 includes a belt assembly 98 configured to receive bundled packages 58 from a fixed feed roller 82 and a movable feed roller 84. Additionally, the belt assembly 98 is configured to drive the bundled packages 58 toward a bundle. Therefore, during the bundled package loading process, the bundled packages 58 are loaded between the fixed feed roller 82 and the belt 100 of the belt assembly 98. The frame 70 then moves from a loading position to a feeding position.

[0036] In the illustrated embodiment, the belt assembly 98 is movable from the retracted position to the extended position. Positioning the belt assembly 98 in the retracted position facilitates movement of the frame 70 between the loading and feeding positions (e.g., by providing clearance between the belt assembly 98 and other components of the agricultural machinery system). Additionally, positioning the belt assembly in the extended position allows the longitudinal end 102 of the belt assembly 98 to be positioned closer to the starter roller when the frame is in the feeding position, thereby facilitating the feeding of the bundled package 58 from the belt assembly 98 to the starter roller. In the illustrated embodiment, the bundled package feed assembly 68 includes one or more arms 104 pivotally coupled to the chassis 106 of the belt assembly 98 and non-pivotibly coupled to a rocker arm shaft 108. The rocker arm shaft 108 is pivotally coupled to the frame 70 and is driven to rotate by an actuator, as discussed in detail below. Furthermore, a track assembly is coupled to the belt assembly chassis 106 and the frame 70. The track assembly is configured to guide movement of the belt assembly 98 between the retracted and extended positions. Additionally, each arm 104 includes a slot 110, and a fastener 112 extends through the slot 110, thereby pivotally connecting the arm 104 to the chassis 106. As each arm 104 is driven to rotate by the rocker arm shaft 108, contact between the arm 104 and the corresponding fastener 112 drives the belt assembly 98 to move between the illustrated retracted and extended positions. Although the track assembly has been disclosed above, in some embodiments, other suitable components (e.g., alone or in combination with the track assembly) may guide the movement of the belt assembly, such as one or more slot and groove assemblies, one or more protrusion and recess assemblies, etc. Furthermore, although in the illustrated embodiment the belt assembly 98 is driven to move by the rocker arm shaft 108 and (one or more) arms 104, in other embodiments the belt assembly may be driven to move by another suitable component, such as a screw driver, gear and track assembly, linear actuator (e.g., a hydraulic cylinder, etc.). Although in the illustrated embodiment the belt assembly 98 is movable, in other embodiments the belt assembly may be fixed relative to the frame of the bundle / package feed assembly.

[0037] After the bundled package 58 is loaded between the fixed feed roller 82 and the belt 100 of the belt assembly 98, the frame 70 moves from the loading position to the feeding position. The belt assembly 98 is then moved to the extended position, so that the longitudinal end 102 of the belt assembly 98 is positioned closer to the starter roller. To wrap the bundled package 58 with the movable bundle wrapping assembly 66, the first support roller 90, the second support roller 92, the movable feed roller 84, the fixed feed roller 82, and the belt 100 are driven to rotate, thereby feeding the bundled package 58 to the starter roller.

[0038] Although the bundled package feeding assembly in the illustrated embodiment includes two support rollers, in other embodiments, the bundled package feeding assembly may include more or fewer support rollers (e.g., 0, 1, 3, 4, or more). For example, in some embodiments, support rollers may be omitted, and the bundled package feeding assembly may include one or more other suitable means to support the movable bundled package assembly (e.g., brackets, one or more support rods, one or more support bushings, etc.). Furthermore, although the bundled package feeding assembly in the illustrated embodiment includes a strap assembly, in other embodiments, the strap assembly may be omitted. In such embodiments, the bundled package feeding assembly may include additional feed rollers to drive the bundled package toward the bundle. Moreover, although the bundled package feeding assembly in the illustrated embodiment includes a single fixed feed roller, in other embodiments, the bundled package feeding assembly may include multiple fixed feed rollers (e.g., 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or more).

[0039] Figure 6 yes Figure 3 A perspective view of a portion of a bundle / package feed assembly 68. In the illustrated embodiment, the bundle / package feed assembly 68 includes a motor 114 (e.g., a roller drive motor) configured to drive rotation of a first support roller 90, a second support roller 92, a fixed feed roller 82, and the belt assembly. The motor 114 may include an electric motor, a hydraulic motor, a pneumatic motor, another suitable type of motor, or a combination thereof. Furthermore, as previously described, with the movable feed roller 84 in the illustrated engaged position, the movable feed roller gear engages the fixed feed roller gear, such that rotation of the fixed feed roller 82 drives rotation of the movable feed roller 84. Thus, the first support roller 90, the second support roller 92, the movable feed roller 84, the fixed feed roller 82, and the belt are driven to rotate by a single motor 114. As a result, the cost and complexity of the bundle / package feed assembly 68 can be reduced (e.g., compared to bundle / package feed assemblies with multiple motors).

[0040] In the illustrated embodiment, the fixed feed roller drive gear 116 is non-rotatably coupled to the fixed feed roller 82, the first support roller drive gear 118 is non-rotatably coupled to the first support roller 90, and the second support roller drive gear 120 is non-rotatably coupled to the second support roller 92. Additionally, the fixed feed roller drive gear 116, the first support roller drive gear 118, and the second support roller drive gear 120 engage a chain 122 (e.g., a roller drive chain). In the illustrated embodiment, the shaft of the motor 114 is non-rotatably coupled to the fixed feed roller drive gear 116. Therefore, rotation of the motor 114 shaft drives the fixed feed roller gear 116 to rotate, which in turn drives the first and second support roller drive gears to rotate via the chain 112. Consequently, the first support roller 90, the second support roller 92, and the fixed feed roller 82 are driven to rotate by the motor 114. Although in the illustrated embodiment the shaft of motor 114 is non-rotatably coupled to fixed feed roller drive gear 116, in other embodiments the shaft of the motor may be coupled to any other suitable gear, or the shaft of the motor may be coupled to an additional gear that is non-rotatably coupled to the shaft of the motor and engages with a chain.

[0041] Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the bundle / package feed assembly 68 includes a belt drive gear 124 engaged with the chain 122. The belt drive gear 124 is rotatably and nonmovably coupled to the frame 70. As discussed in detail below, the belt drive gear 124 is configured to drive the belt of the belt assembly to rotate. Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment, the bundle / package feed assembly 68 includes a tension adjusting gear 126 engaged with the chain 122. The tension adjusting gear 126 is rotatably and movablely coupled to the frame 70. The position of the tension adjusting gear 126 can be adjusted to control the tension of the chain 122. Although the bundle / package feed assembly 68 includes a gear and a chain 122 in the illustrated embodiment, in other embodiments, the bundle / package feed assembly may include pulleys (e.g., a first support roller drive pulley, a second support roller drive pulley, a tension adjusting pulley, a fixed feed roller drive pulley, and a belt drive pulley) and a belt engaged with the pulleys. Furthermore, in some embodiments, at least one component may be driven to rotate by at least one other motor. For example, the first and second support rollers can be driven to rotate by a single motor, and the fixed feed roller and the belt can be driven to rotate by another motor. As another example, the belt can be driven to rotate by a first motor, the fixed feed roller can be driven to rotate by a second motor, and the first and second support rollers can be driven to rotate by a third motor.

[0042] As previously described, the movable feed roller 84 is movable relative to the fixed feed roller 82 between the shown engaged and disengaged positions. In the illustrated embodiment, the movable feed roller 84 is rotatably and immovably coupled to the first arm 128, and the first arm 128 is pivotally coupled to the frame 70 at the first pivot joint 130. Additionally, as discussed in detail below, the movable feed roller 84 is also rotatably and immovably coupled to the second arm, and the second arm is pivotally coupled to the frame at the second pivot joint. The first and second arms are positioned on opposite lateral sides of the frame. The arms and pivot joints allow the movable feed roller 84 to move relative to the frame 70. Thus, the movable feed roller 84 is rotatably and immovably coupled to the frame 70. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the frame 70 has a first slot 132 and a second slot positioned on opposite lateral sides of the frame 70. The slots facilitate movement of the movable feed roller 84 between the illustrated engaged and disengaged positions.

[0043] In the illustrated embodiment, the bundle / package feed assembly 68 includes a first actuator 134 (e.g., a first movable feed roller actuator) configured to drive the movable feed roller 84 between the illustrated engagement and disengagement positions. The first actuator 134 is pivotally coupled to the frame 70 and the first arm 128. Additionally, as discussed in detail below, the bundle / package feed assembly 68 includes a second actuator configured to drive the movable feed roller between the engagement and disengagement positions, and the first and second actuators are positioned on opposite lateral sides of the frame. The first and second actuators are configured to drive the first and second arms to pivot about corresponding pivot joints, thereby driving the movable feed roller between the engagement and disengagement positions. In the illustrated embodiment, the first actuator 134 includes a hydraulic cylinder. However, in other embodiments, the first actuator may include one or more other suitable actuation devices (e.g., alone or in combination with a hydraulic cylinder), such as a pneumatic cylinder, an electric linear actuator, etc.

[0044] In the illustrated embodiment, the first support roller 90 is rotatably and immovably connected to the frame 70 via corresponding first bearing assemblies 136 and 138 and 138 and 138 and 138 and 138 and 138 and 138 and 138 and 138 and 138 and 138 and 138 respectively. Additionally, the fixed feed roller 82 is rotatably and immovably connected to the frame 70 via corresponding first bearing assemblies 140 and 148 and 138 and 138 respectively. Furthermore, the movable feed roller 84 is rotatably and immovably connected to the first arm 128 via corresponding first bearing assembly 142 and 138 and 138 and 138 and 138 and 138 and 138 and 138 and 138 and 138 and 138 and 138 and 138 and 138 and 138 and 138 and 138 and 138 and 138 and 138 and 138 and 138 and 138 and 138 respectively and 138 and 138 respectively and 138 and 138 respectively. The first and second bearing assemblies are positioned on opposite lateral sides of the frame, and each bearing assembly is configured to facilitate rotation of the corresponding roller. Although each roller is rotatably supported by a corresponding bearing assembly in the illustrated embodiment, in other embodiments, at least one roller may be rotatably supported by other suitable connectors (e.g., bushing assemblies, etc.).

[0045] Figure 7 yes Figure 3 A perspective view of a portion of the bundle / package feeding assembly 68. As previously described, a movable feed roller 84 is rotatably and nonmovably coupled to a second arm 144, and the second arm 144 is pivotally coupled to a frame 70 at a second pivot joint 146. The first and second arms, as well as the first and second pivot joints, allow the movable feed roller 84 to move between an engaged position, as shown by solid lines, and a disengaged position, as shown by dashed lines. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the frame 70 has a second slot 148, and the first and second slots facilitate movement of the movable feed roller 84 between the engaged and disengaged positions. As previously described, the movable feed roller 84 is configured to be positioned close to the fixed feed roller 82 when in the engaged position to facilitate feeding bundle / packages between the movable feed roller 84 and the fixed feed roller 82, and the movable feed roller 84 is configured to be positioned away from the fixed feed roller 82 when in the disengaged position to facilitate loading bundle / packages between the movable feed roller 84 and the fixed feed roller 82.

[0046] In the illustrated embodiment, the bundle / package feed assembly 68 includes a second actuator 150 (e.g., a second movable feed roller actuator) configured to drive the movable feed roller 84 between an engaged position and a disengaged position. The second actuator 148 is pivotally coupled to the frame 70 and the second arm 144. As previously described, the first and second actuators are configured to drive the first and second arms to pivot about corresponding pivot joints, thereby driving the movable feed roller between the engaged and disengaged positions. In the illustrated embodiment, the second actuator 150 includes a hydraulic cylinder. However, in other embodiments, the second actuator may include one or more other suitable actuation devices (e.g., alone or in combination with a hydraulic cylinder), such as pneumatic cylinders, electric linear actuators, etc. Although the bundle / package feed assembly 68 includes two actuators for driving the movable feed roller 84 in the illustrated embodiment, in other embodiments, the bundle / package feed assembly may include more or fewer actuators configured to drive the movable feed roller, such as 1, 3, 4, or more. Furthermore, in some embodiments, one or more motors (e.g., individually or in combination with one or more actuators) can drive the arm to rotate. Additionally, in some embodiments, the arm can be omitted, and one or more actuators can directly drive the movable feed roller to move between an engaged position and a disengaged position.

[0047] Additionally, as previously described, the package feeding assembly 68 includes a fixed feed roller gear 86 non-rotatably coupled to the fixed feed roller 82, and a movable feed roller gear 88 non-rotatably coupled to the movable feed roller 84. The movable feed roller gear 88 is configured to engage the fixed feed roller gear 86 when the movable feed roller 84 is in the engaged position, enabling the fixed feed roller 82 to rotate and drive the rotation of the movable feed roller 84. Furthermore, the movable feed roller gear 88 is configured to disengage from the fixed feed roller gear 86 when the movable feed roller 84 is in the disengaged position, such that the movable feed roller 84 is not driven to rotate when in the disengaged position. Although in the illustrated embodiment the gears are non-rotatably coupled to both the movable and fixed feed rollers, in other embodiments, the fixed feed roller may be non-rotatably coupled to both the fixed and movable feed rollers. In such an embodiment, the movable feed roller is configured to engage the fixed feed roller when the movable feed roller is in the engaged position, so that the rotation of the fixed feed roller can drive the rotation of the movable feed roller.

[0048] As previously described, the first support roller 90 is rotatably and immovably connected to the frame 70 via corresponding first bearing assemblies and corresponding second bearing assemblies 152, and the second support roller 92 is rotatably and immovably connected to the frame 70 via corresponding first bearing assemblies and corresponding second bearing assemblies 154. Additionally, the fixed feed roller 82 is rotatably and immovably connected to the frame 70 via corresponding first bearing assemblies and corresponding second bearing assemblies 156. Furthermore, the movable feed roller 84 is rotatably and immovably connected to the first arm via corresponding first bearing assemblies, and the movable feed roller 84 is rotatably and immovably connected to the second arm 144 via corresponding second bearing assemblies 158. As previously described, the first and second bearing assemblies are positioned on opposite lateral sides of the frame, and each bearing assembly is configured to facilitate rotation of the corresponding roller.

[0049] As previously described, the belt assembly 98 is movable from the retracted position to the extended position shown. Furthermore, as previously described, one or more arms are pivotally coupled to the chassis of the belt assembly 98 and non-pivotibly coupled to the rocker arm shaft 108, which is pivotally coupled to the frame 70. In the illustrated embodiment, an actuator 160 (e.g., a belt assembly actuator) is configured to drive the rocker arm shaft 108 to rotate. The actuator 160 is pivotally coupled to the frame 70 and also pivotally coupled to a crank arm 162, which is non-pivotibly coupled to the rocker arm shaft 108. Therefore, the actuator 160 is configured to drive the crank arm 162 to pivot relative to the frame 70, thereby driving the crank shaft 108 to pivot relative to the frame 70. As previously described, rotation of the crank shaft 108 drives each arm to rotate, and as each arm rotates, contact between the arm and the corresponding fastener drives the belt assembly 98 to move between the retracted and extended positions shown. Therefore, actuator 160 is configured to drive belt assembly 98 between a retracted position and an extended position. In the illustrated embodiment, the first actuator 160 includes a hydraulic cylinder. However, in other embodiments, the actuator may include one or more other suitable actuation devices (e.g., alone or in combination with a hydraulic cylinder), such as pneumatic cylinders, electric linear actuators, etc. Furthermore, although the bundled package feed assembly 68 in the illustrated embodiment includes a single actuator 160 configured to drive belt assembly 98 to move, in other embodiments, the bundled package feed assembly may include multiple actuators (e.g., 2, 3, 4 or more) configured to drive belt assembly to move.

[0050] Figure 8 yes Figure 3A perspective view of a portion of the package feeding assembly 68. As previously described, belt drive gear 124 is configured to drive the belt 100 of belt assembly 98 to rotate. In the illustrated embodiment, belt drive gear 124 is non-rotatably coupled to a second belt drive gear 164, and the second belt drive gear 164 is rotatably and non-movably coupled to the frame 70. Furthermore, the second belt drive gear 164 engages with belt drive chain 166. In the illustrated embodiment, belt assembly 98 includes a drive gear 168 rotatably and non-movably coupled to the chassis 106, and belt assembly 98 includes a freewheeling gear 170 rotatably and non-movably coupled to the chassis 106. As shown, belt drive chain 166 engages with drive gear 168 and freewheeling gear 170, and the drive gear is non-rotatably coupled to drive roller 172 of belt assembly 98. Therefore, when roller drive chain drives belt drive gear 124 to rotate, belt drive gear 124 drives second belt drive gear 164 to rotate, thereby driving belt drive chain 166 to rotate. Additionally, the rotation of the drive chain 166 drives the idler gear 170 and drive gear 168 to rotate, thereby driving the drive roller 172 to rotate. The drive roller 172 engages with the belt 100 of the belt assembly 98. Therefore, the rotation of the drive roller 172 drives the belt 100 to rotate. Consequently, the belt drive gear 124 drives the belt 100 of the belt assembly 98 to rotate.

[0051] As previously described, belt assembly 98 is movable from the retracted position to the extended position as shown. Due to the spacing along the longitudinal axis 74 between the idler gear 170 and the drive gear 168, the second belt drive gear 164 remains engaged with the belt drive chain 166 throughout the entire range of motion of belt assembly 98 between the retracted and extended positions. When belt assembly 98 is in the retracted position as shown, the idler gear 170 is positioned closer to the second belt drive gear 164, and when belt assembly 98 is in the extended position, the idler gear 170 is positioned further away from the second belt drive gear 164. Because the second belt drive gear 164 remains engaged with the belt drive chain 166 throughout the entire range of motion of belt assembly 98, the roller drive motor can drive belt 100 to rotate (e.g., via the roller drive chain, belt drive gear 124, second belt drive gear 164, belt drive chain 166, drive gear 168, and drive roller 172) when belt assembly 98 is in the retracted position, the extended position, and any position between the extended and retracted positions. The rotational speed of belt 100 relative to the rotational speed of the roller drive chain can be selected by choosing the gear ratio between belt drive gear 124 and the second belt drive gear 164.

[0052] In some embodiments, the bundled package feeding assembly includes a control panel positioned near the frame and configured to allow an operator located near the frame to access the control panel. The control panel includes a controller configured to allow the operator to control each motor and actuator of the bundled package feeding assembly. For example, the control panel may allow the operator to control a belt assembly actuator to move the belt assembly from an extended position to a retracted position. Furthermore, the control panel may allow the operator to control a frame drive motor to move the frame from a feed position to a loading position. Additionally, the control panel may allow the operator to control a movable feed roller actuator to drive the movable feed roller from an engaged position to a disengaged position. The control panel may also allow the operator to control a roller drive motor to drive a support roller to rotate, thereby driving the movable bundled package to rotate such that one end of the bundled package in the movable bundled package assembly is positioned at a target location. The operator can then load the bundled package between the movable feed roller and the stationary feed roller, and between the stationary feed roller and the belt, as described above. After the bundled package is loaded between the fixed feed roller and the movable feed roller, the control panel allows the operator to control the movable feed roller actuator to move the movable feed roller from the disengaged position to the engaged position. Furthermore, the control panel allows the operator to control the frame drive motor to move the frame from the loading position to the feed position, and the control panel allows the operator to control the belt assembly actuator to move the belt assembly from the retracted position to the extended position. Additionally, the control panel allows the operator to control the roller drive motor to drive the rollers and belt, thereby driving the bundled package toward the bundle.

[0053] Although only certain features have been shown and described herein, many modifications and variations will occur to those skilled in the art. Therefore, it should be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and variations that fall within the true spirit of this disclosure.

[0054] The techniques proposed and claimed herein are referenced and applied to practical objects and concrete examples of a practical nature that significantly improve upon the art and are therefore not abstract, intangible, or purely theoretical. Furthermore, if any claim appended to this specification contains one or more elements designated as “means for [performing] [function]…” or “steps for [performing] [function]…”, such elements shall be interpreted in accordance with 35U.SC112(f). However, for any claim containing elements designated in any other manner, such elements shall not be interpreted in accordance with 35U.SC112(f).

Claims

1. A bale / parcel feeding assembly for an agricultural harvester, comprising: A frame configured to move from a feed position to a loading position relative to the lateral axis of the agricultural harvester; A fixed feed roller that is rotatably but immovably connected to the frame; A movable feed roller is rotatably and movably coupled to the frame, wherein the movable feed roller is movable relative to the fixed feed roller between an engaged position and a disengaged position, the movable feed roller being configured to be positioned close to the fixed feed roller in the engaged position to feed bundled packages between the movable feed roller and the fixed feed roller, and the movable feed roller being configured to be positioned away from the fixed feed roller in the disengaged position to load the bundled packages between the movable feed roller and the fixed feed roller; A fixed feed roller gear that is non-rotatably connected to the fixed feed roller; as well as A movable feed roller gear is non-rotatably coupled to the movable feed roller, wherein the movable feed roller gear is configured to engage the fixed feed roller gear when the movable feed roller is in the engaged position, so that the fixed feed roller can rotate to drive the rotation of the movable feed roller.

2. The package feeding assembly of claim 1, further comprising an actuator configured to drive the movable feed roller between the engagement position and the disengagement position.

3. The package feeding assembly of claim 2, comprising an arm coupled to the movable feed roller, wherein the actuator is coupled to the arm and configured to drive the arm to rotate, thereby moving the movable feed roller between the engaged position and the disengaged position.

4. The package feeding assembly according to claim 1, comprising a motor configured to drive the fixed feed roller to rotate.

5. The package feeding assembly according to claim 1, comprising: A first support roller is rotatably but immovably connected to the frame; as well as A second support roller is rotatably but immovably connected to the frame; The first support roller and the second support roller are configured to support the bundled package assembly having the bundled package.

6. The package feeding assembly of claim 1, comprising a motor configured to drive the frame to move between the feeding position and the loading position.

7. The bundle / package feeding assembly of claim 1, comprising a belt assembly configured to receive the bundle / package from the fixed feed roller and the movable feed roller, wherein the belt assembly is configured to drive the bundle / package toward the bundle.

8. An agricultural harvester, comprising: A storage compartment for bundled parcel components, the storage compartment for bundled parcel components being configured to store multiple bundled parcel components; as well as A bundle / parcel feeding assembly configured to receive a movable bundle / parcel assembly from a plurality of bundle / parcel assemblies from a bundle / parcel assembly storage compartment, and to feed the bundle / parcel of the movable bundle / parcel assembly toward the bundle / parcel, wherein the bundle / parcel feeding assembly includes: A frame configured to move from a feed position to a loading position relative to the lateral axis of the agricultural harvester, wherein the bale and package feeding assembly is configured to receive the active bale and package assembly when the frame is in the feed position; A fixed feed roller that is rotatably but immovably connected to the frame; A movable feed roller is rotatably and movably coupled to the frame, wherein the movable feed roller is movable relative to the fixed feed roller between an engaged position and a disengaged position, the movable feed roller being configured to be positioned close to the fixed feed roller in the engaged position to feed the bundled package of the movable bundling assembly between the movable feed roller and the fixed feed roller, and the movable feed roller being configured to be positioned away from the fixed feed roller in the disengaged position to load the bundled package of the movable bundling assembly between the movable feed roller and the fixed feed roller; A fixed feed roller gear that is non-rotatably connected to the fixed feed roller; and A movable feed roller gear is non-rotatably coupled to the movable feed roller, wherein the movable feed roller gear is configured to engage the fixed feed roller gear when the movable feed roller is in the engaged position, so that the fixed feed roller can rotate to drive the rotation of the movable feed roller.

9. The agricultural harvester of claim 8, wherein the bale / wrapping feeding assembly includes an actuator configured to drive the movable feed roller between the engaged position and the disengaged position.

10. The agricultural harvester of claim 9, wherein the bale / package feeding assembly includes an arm coupled to the movable feed roller, and the actuator is coupled to the arm and configured to drive the arm to rotate, thereby moving the movable feed roller between the engaged position and the disengaged position.

11. The agricultural harvester of claim 8, wherein the bale / package feeding assembly includes a motor configured to drive the fixed feed roller to rotate.

12. The agricultural harvester according to claim 8, wherein the bale / package feeding assembly comprises: A first support roller is rotatably but immovably connected to the frame; as well as A second support roller is rotatably but immovably connected to the frame; The first support roller and the second support roller are configured to support the movable bundling assembly.

13. The agricultural harvester of claim 8, wherein the bale / package feeding assembly includes a motor configured to drive the frame to move between the feeding position and the loading position.

14. The agricultural harvester of claim 8, wherein the bale feeding assembly includes a belt assembly configured to receive bales from the movable bale assembly from the fixed feed roller and the movable feed roller, and the belt assembly configured to drive the bales of the movable bale assembly toward the bale.

15. A method for loading bales from a bale-and-parcel assembly into a bale-and-parcel feed assembly of an agricultural harvester, comprising: The frame of the bundled package feeding assembly is moved from the feeding position to the loading position relative to the lateral axis of the agricultural harvester; A movable feed roller is moved from an engaged position to a disengaged position relative to a fixed feed roller, wherein the movable feed roller is rotatably and movablely coupled to the frame, and the fixed feed roller is rotatably and immovably coupled to the frame. The movable feed roller is configured to be positioned close to the fixed feed roller in the engaged position to facilitate feeding the bundled package between the movable feed roller and the fixed feed roller, and the movable feed roller is configured to be positioned away from the fixed feed roller in the disengaged position to facilitate loading the bundled package between the movable feed roller and the fixed feed roller. The bundled package is loaded between the movable feed roller and the fixed feed roller; as well as The movable feed roller is moved from the disengaged position to the engaged position such that the movable feed roller gear, which is non-rotatably connected to the movable feed roller, engages the fixed feed roller gear, which is non-rotatably connected to the fixed feed roller, so that the rotation of the fixed feed roller can drive the rotation of the movable feed roller.

16. The method of claim 15, further comprising moving the frame from the loading position to the feed position after moving the movable feed roller to the engagement position.

17. The method of claim 15, further comprising receiving the bundling assembly onto a first support roller and a second support roller, wherein the first support roller is rotatably and immovably coupled to the frame, and the second support roller is rotatably and immovably coupled to the frame; and the first support roller and the second support roller are configured to support the bundling assembly.

18. The method of claim 17, further comprising rotating the first support roller and the second support roller to drive the bundling assembly to rotate, thereby positioning one end of the bundled package of the bundling assembly at a target position.

19. The method of claim 15, wherein moving the frame from the feed position to the loading position comprises starting a motor to drive the frame from the feed position to the loading position.

20. The method of claim 15, wherein moving the movable feed roller from the engaged position to the disengaged position comprises activating an actuator to drive the movable feed roller from the engaged position to the disengaged position, and moving the movable feed roller from the disengaged position to the engaged position comprises activating the actuator to drive the movable feed roller from the disengaged position to the engaged position.

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