Harvesting machinery

Abstract

To provide a harvesting machine whose reliability on the quality measured by a quality measuring device hardly deteriorates.SOLUTION: A harvesting machine 4 includes a grain tank, a quality measuring device 1, and a regulation member 3. The grain tank stores grains X1. The quality measuring device 1 is disposed at a position facing an internal space Sp1 of the grain tank and measures the quality of the grains X1. The regulation member 3 regulates an amount of the grains X1 taken into the quality measuring device 1 in at least one of a conveyance route 30 of the grains X1 by a taking-in device 10 and a taking-in port 12. The taking-in device 10 takes in the grains X1 from the taking-in port 12 of the quality measuring device 1 to the quality measuring device 1 by conveying the grains X1.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 13

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a harvesting machine including a grain tank for storing grains.

Background Art

[0002] As related art, a harvesting machine (combine) including a cutting unit, a threshing unit, a conveying device (grain elevating conveyor), and a grain tank (grain hopper) is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1). The grain tank stores grains in the tank interior space. A grain inlet is formed at the upper part of the side wall of the grain tank, and the conveying device inputs grains into the tank interior space through this grain inlet. The harvesting machine according to the related art further includes a quality measuring device (grain internal quality measuring device) that is disposed in the tank interior space of the grain tank and measures the internal quality of the grains input into the tank interior space.

[0003] The quality measuring device according to the related art includes an intake port (grain inlet) for introducing grains input into the tank interior space into the device (quality measuring device), a measuring unit for measuring the internal quality of the grains introduced into the device, and a discharge port (grain outlet) for discharging the grains introduced into the device. The measuring unit has a pair of electrode rollers, and measures the moisture content of the grains based on a change in the resistance value between the pair of electrode rollers while crushing the grains between the pair of electrode rollers.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In the configuration of the related technologies described above, if the amount of grain stored in the grain tank reaches a level that completely fills the quality measuring instrument, a situation may occur where, for example, a large amount of grain is drawn into the quality measuring instrument through its intake port, causing the measuring section to become clogged. As a result, the quality measurement of the grain by the quality measuring instrument is impaired, leading to a decrease in the reliability of the quality measured by the instrument.

[0006] The object of the present invention is to provide a harvesting machine that is less likely to experience a decrease in the reliability of the quality measured by a quality measuring instrument. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A harvesting machine according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a grain tank, a quality measuring instrument, and a regulating member. The grain tank stores grain. The quality measuring instrument is positioned facing the internal space of the grain tank and measures the quality of the grain. The regulating member regulates the amount of grain taken into the quality measuring instrument at least one of the grain transport path and intake port of the intake device. The intake device takes the grain into the quality measuring instrument from the intake port by transporting the grain. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a harvesting machine that is less likely to reduce the reliability of the quality measured by a quality measuring instrument. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic left side view of the harvesting machine according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic plan view of the harvesting machine according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic block diagram of the harvesting machine according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic perspective view of the area around the grain tank of the harvesting machine according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 5]Figure 5 shows a harvesting machine according to Embodiment 1, and is a schematic plan view of the interior space of the grain tank as seen from above, with the top of the grain tank cut open. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows a harvesting machine according to Embodiment 1, and is an enlarged view of region Z1 in Figure 5. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows a harvesting machine according to Embodiment 1, and is a schematic perspective view of the left panel from inside the grain tank with the grain tank's ceiling panel removed. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows a harvesting machine according to Embodiment 1, and is a schematic perspective view of the left panel from inside the grain tank with the grain tank's ceiling panel removed. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows a harvesting machine according to Embodiment 1, and is a side view of the left panel of the grain tank as seen from inside the grain tank, with the ceiling panel of the grain tank removed. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows the harvesting machine according to Embodiment 1, and is a view taken along the line A1-A1 in Figure 9. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a schematic perspective view showing the quality measuring instrument and regulating member of the harvesting machine according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a schematic exploded perspective view showing the quality measuring instrument and regulating member of the harvesting machine according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the operation in which grain is taken into the quality measuring instrument of the harvesting machine according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram showing an example of adjusting the height of the regulating member of the harvesting machine according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram showing a regulating member of a harvesting machine according to a first modified example of Embodiment 1. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] The embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the attached drawings. The following embodiments are examples that embody the present invention and are not intended to limit the technical scope of the present invention.

[0011] (Embodiment 1) [1] Overall structure First, the overall structure of the harvesting machine 4 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4.

[0012] The harvesting machine 4 according to this embodiment includes a traveling device 41, a cutting unit 42, a threshing unit 43, a sorting unit 44, a conveying device 45, a power unit 46, an operation unit 47, a straw processing unit 48, a discharge device 49, etc. on the machine body 40 which is the main body of the harvesting machine 4. Further, the harvesting machine 4 further includes a grain tank 2 for storing grains, a quality measuring instrument 1 for measuring the quality of grains (see FIG. 4), etc. on the machine body 40. The conveying device 45 conveys grains from the threshing unit 43 to the grain tank 2, and inputs the grains into the grain tank 2 through an inlet 21 (see FIGS. 5, etc.) that opens on the inner surface 20 (see FIGS. 5, etc.) of the grain tank 2. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3, the harvesting machine 4 further includes a control device 51, a communication terminal 52, a harvesting amount sensor 53, a grain sensor 54, a full amount sensor 55, a fuel tank, a battery, etc. on the machine body 40.

[0013] Thus, the harvesting machine 4 according to this embodiment includes at least the grain tank 2 and the quality measuring instrument 1. FIG. 4 is a schematic perspective view showing the appearances of the grain tank 2, the conveying device 45, and the quality measuring instrument 1, and the illustration of the configurations other than the grain tank 2, the conveying device 45, and the quality measuring instrument 1 is appropriately omitted.

[0014] As used in this disclosure, the "harvesting machine" is a machine that performs crop harvesting operations in a field. As an example, it includes a combine (combine harvester) that performs threshing and sorting in addition to the harvesting operation. The combine as the harvesting machine 4 is mainly used for grain harvesting operations. While moving (traveling) within the field, it cuts the crops and harvests the cut crops. In particular, there are two types of combines: a general-purpose combine that feeds the entire cut crop into a threshing machine (threshing unit 43), and a self-threshing combine that feeds only the ear tips of the cut crop into the threshing machine. In this embodiment, a general-purpose combine will be described as an example of the harvesting machine 4. Also, in this embodiment, as an example, the harvesting machine 4 is assumed to operate by the operation (including remote operation) of a person (operator), but it is not limited to this. The harvesting machine 4 may be a drone that operates by automatic driving. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the harvesting machine 4 is a "vehicle" that travels in the field by a traveling device 41, but the harvesting machine 4 is not limited to a "vehicle".

[0015] As used in this disclosure, the "field" is an area where the harvesting machine 4 performs harvesting operations, and includes, for example, paddy fields, fields, orchards, and pastures where crops (agricultural products) to be harvested such as rice, wheat, soybeans, or buckwheat grow. In this embodiment, as an example, the case where the crop to be harvested by the harvesting machine 4 is "rice" and the field is an outdoor paddy field where rice grows will be described as an example.

[0016] Also, in this embodiment, for convenience of explanation, the vertical direction in the state where the harvesting machine 4 can be used is defined as the up-down direction D3. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 2, based on the direction seen from a person (operator) riding on the harvesting machine 4 (the operation unit 47), the left-right direction D1 and the front-back direction D2 are defined. In other words, each direction used in this embodiment is a direction defined based on the machine body 40 of the harvesting machine 4. When the harvesting machine 4 moves forward, the direction in which the machine body 40 moves is "forward", and when the harvesting machine 4 moves backward, the direction in which the machine body 40 moves is "backward". Similarly, when the harvesting machine 4 turns to the right, the direction in which the front end portion of the machine body 40 moves is "right", and when the harvesting machine 4 turns to the left, the direction in which the front end portion of the machine body 40 moves is "left".

[0017] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the left-right direction D1, which is perpendicular to the vertical direction D3, is defined as the "first direction," and the front-back direction D2, which is perpendicular to both the vertical direction D3 and the left-right direction D1 (first direction), is defined as the "second direction." In other words, both the first direction (left-right direction D1) and the second direction (front-back direction D2) are directions along the horizontal plane and are perpendicular to each other. However, these directions are not intended to limit the direction of use (direction during use) of the harvesting machine 4. For example, the front-back direction D2, which is perpendicular to the vertical direction D3, may be defined as the "first direction," and the left-right direction D1, which is perpendicular to both the vertical direction D3 and the front-back direction D2 (first direction), may also be defined as the "first direction."

[0018] The traveling device 41 can move the harvesting machine 4 in the forward / backward direction D2 and the left / right direction D1. For example, the harvesting machine 4 performs harvesting work while meandering through a field such as a rice paddy or a field. As an example, the harvesting machine 4 may move through the field by turning to the right (or left) from the outside to the inside, in which case the movement trajectory of the harvesting machine 4 will be a spiral path.

[0019] The harvesting unit 42 cuts the crops in the field (rice as an example in this embodiment). The harvesting unit 42 includes a reel 421, a cutter 422, a raking auger 423, a conveyor belt 424, a rotor 425, and a feeder house 426, etc. The reel 421 rotates to guide the crop stalks to the cutter 422. The cutter 422 cuts the stalks guided by the reel 421. As a result, the crops growing in the field are cut in the middle of the stalk, and at least the stalks including the ears are harvested by the harvesting machine 4.

[0020] The raking auger 423 feeds the harvested grain stalks into the feeder house 426. Specifically, the raking auger 423 is a lateral feed screw that transports the harvested grain stalks in the left-right direction D1 and collects them in front of the feeder house 426.

[0021] The feeder house 426 forms the outer casing of a path for passing harvested crops (grain stalks) between the harvesting unit 42 (specifically, its raking auger 423) and the threshing unit 43. In this embodiment, the threshing unit 43 is located diagonally above and behind the harvesting unit 42. As an example, the feeder house 426 is a hollow cylindrical (square-shaped) structure with a rectangular cross-section, and is positioned to extend diagonally upward from the harvesting unit 42 toward the threshing unit 43. The grain stalks harvested by the harvesting unit 42 are raked into the feeder house 426 through an intake opening on the front side of the feeder house 426 and sent through the internal space of the feeder house 426 toward the threshing unit 43.

[0022] The conveyor belt 424 is located inside the feeder house 426. The conveyor belt 424 is collected by the raking auger 423 at a position in front of the intake opening of the feeder house 426, and the stalks of grain raked into the feeder house 426 from the intake opening are transported through the inside of the feeder house 426 to the rotor 425. The rotor 425 feeds the stalks of grain transported by the conveyor belt 424 to the threshing unit 43.

[0023] The threshing unit 43 performs threshing on the stalks of grain cut by the harvesting unit 42. In the threshing process, the threshed grain, including the grains, is separated from the stalks. The threshed grain falls from the threshing unit 43 to the sorting unit 44 below.

[0024] The sorting unit 44 performs a sorting process to separate grains from the threshed grain that falls from the threshing unit 43. The sorting unit 44 separates grains from the threshed grain, for example, by blowing air onto the threshed grain from diagonally below while sifting the threshed grain.

[0025] The threshing unit 43 performs threshing on the grain stalks while transporting them from the front to the rear of the threshing unit 43. Similarly, the sorting unit 44 performs sorting on the threshed grains while transporting them from the front to the rear of the sorting unit 44.

[0026] The conveying device 45 includes a horizontal conveying section 451 (see Figure 4), a vertical conveying section 452, and an input section 453, etc. The horizontal conveying section 451 is a horizontal feed screw located below the sorting section 44 (and threshing section 43) that conveys grain along the left-right direction D1. In this embodiment, as an example, the horizontal conveying section 451 is a screw conveyor that conveys the grain threshed in the threshing section 43 to the entrance of the vertical conveying section 452. The vertical conveying section 452 connects the outlet of the horizontal conveying section 451 to the input section 453 located at the top of the grain tank 2, and conveys the grain along the up-down direction D3. In other words, the vertical conveying section 452 conveys the grain from its lower end connected to the outlet of the horizontal conveying section 451 to its upper end connected to the input section 453, thereby further conveying the grain conveyed by the horizontal conveying section 451 upward along the up-down direction D3.

[0027] The input section 453 is connected to the outlet (upper end) of the vertical conveying section 452, and the grain conveyed by the vertical conveying section 452 is fed into the grain tank 2. In other words, the grain that has been conveyed to the upper end of the vertical conveying section 452 is fed into the grain tank 2 at the input section 453. As a result, the grain is conveyed from the threshing section 43 (through the sorting section 44) to the input section 453 by the horizontal conveying section 451 and the vertical conveying section 452, and is fed into the grain tank 2 at the input section 453.

[0028] The grain tank 2 is a tank (container) for storing the threshed grain (grains, etc.) obtained from the threshing process in the threshing section 43. The grain tank 2 is arranged in the left-right direction D1, which is the width direction of the machine body 40, relative to the threshing section 43. In this embodiment, as an example, when the machine body 40 is divided approximately equally in the left-right direction D1, the threshing section 43 (and sorting section 44) is located on the left side, and the grain tank 2 is located on the right side.

[0029] The discharge device 49 discharges the grain from the grain tank 2 to any location around the harvesting machine 4. The discharge device 49 includes a discharge conveying path 490 and a conveying mechanism 493, etc. The discharge conveying path 490 is a path for discharging the stored material (grain) from the grain tank 2. The discharge conveying path 490 includes a vertical conveying path 491 extending in the vertical direction D3 and a horizontal conveying path 492 extending in a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction D3 (horizontal direction). The lower end of the vertical conveying path 491 is connected to the grain tank 2, and the upper end of the vertical conveying path 491 is connected to the horizontal conveying path 492. As a result, the stored material from the grain tank 2 is conveyed upward through the vertical conveying path 491, then conveyed horizontally through the horizontal conveying path 492, and discharged from the front end of the horizontal conveying path 492.

[0030] Furthermore, the vertical conveyor path 491 also functions as the axis of rotation when the grain tank 2 is opened and closed. In other words, the grain tank 2 is configured to rotate in the horizontal plane around the central axis of the vertical conveyor path 491. This allows the grain tank 2 to move (rotate) between a closed position and an open position, making it easier to secure working space for maintenance, such as when performing maintenance on the swing bearing of the sorting unit 44, by opening the grain tank 2. Figure 2 and others show the grain tank 2 in the closed position.

[0031] The conveying mechanism 493 is, for example, a screw (auger) that conveys grain through the discharge conveying path 490 by rotating within the discharge conveying path 490. In other words, within the vertical conveying path 491, the vertical auger, which acts as the conveying mechanism 493, conveys grain by rotating, and within the horizontal conveying path 492, the horizontal auger, which acts as the conveying mechanism 493, conveys grain by rotating.

[0032] The straw processing unit 48 discharges waste materials such as straw generated during the threshing process. In other words, the straw and other materials separated from the threshed grain (including grains) during the threshing process in the threshing unit 43 are transported to the straw processing unit 48 as waste materials. The straw processing unit 48 has an outlet 481 (see Figure 1) for discharging the waste materials to the outside of the machine body 40. The straw processing unit 48 is located, for example, behind the threshing unit 43, that is, at the left rear of the machine body 40, with the outlet 481 opening towards the rear. The straw processing unit 48 has a straw cutter or the like, and after performing cutting or other processing on the waste materials, it discharges the waste materials from the outlet 481. However, it is not essential for the straw processing unit 48 to perform cutting or other processing.

[0033] The power unit 46 is the drive source for the traveling device 41, harvesting unit 42, threshing unit 43, sorting unit 44, conveying device 45, straw processing unit 48, and discharge device 49, etc. The power unit 46 has an engine, such as a diesel engine, as its power source. Alternatively, the power unit 46 may have a hybrid power source including an engine and a motor (electric motor). In this embodiment, as an example, the power unit 46 is located in front of the grain tank 2.

[0034] The driver's unit 47 is equipped with a driver's seat where the operator sits, as well as operating devices such as a handle, various operating levers, and various operating switches operated by the operator. In this embodiment, the driver's unit 47 is located in front of the grain tank 2 on the right side of the body 40 of the harvesting machine 4 (see Figure 2). Furthermore, the driver's unit 47 is located behind the cutting unit 42 and above the power unit 46 (see Figure 1).

[0035] Here, the types of operating units 47 for the harvesting machine 4 include cabin type, canopy type, and floor type. The cabin type operating unit 47 has a cabin, and the operator sits in the cabin space inside the cabin. The canopy type operating unit 47 has a canopy (roof), and the operator sits in the space below the canopy. The floor type operating unit 47 does not have a cabin or canopy, and the operator sits in the open space above. In this embodiment, as an example, the case where the operating unit 47 is of the canopy type will be described.

[0036] The control device 51 controls the traveling device 41, harvesting unit 42, threshing unit 43, sorting unit 44, conveying device 45, power unit 46, straw processing unit 48, and discharge device 49, etc., in response to operations received by the operating device. The control device 51 mainly consists of a computer system having one or more processors such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and one or more memories such as ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory), and performs various processes (information processing). In this embodiment, the control device 51 is an integrated controller that controls the entire harvesting machine 4, and consists of, for example, an electronic control unit (ECU). However, the control device 51 may be provided separately from the integrated controller.

[0037] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the control device 51 is connected to the quality measuring instrument 1, the yield sensor 53, the grain sensor 54, and the full-quantity sensor 55. Therefore, the control device 51 can acquire the measurement results of the quality measuring instrument 1, as well as the detection results of the yield sensor 53, the grain sensor 54, and the full-quantity sensor 55. In this embodiment, the quality measuring instrument 1, the yield sensor 53, the grain sensor 54, and the full-quantity sensor 55 are all located in the grain tank 2. Details of the arrangement of the quality measuring instrument 1, the yield sensor 53, the grain sensor 54, and the full-quantity sensor 55 will be explained in the section "[2] Configuration of the grain tank and surrounding conveying device".

[0038] The quality measuring instrument 1 is positioned facing the internal space Sp1 (see Figure 5) of the grain tank 2 and is a device for measuring the quality of grain threshed in the threshing section 43. In this disclosure, "quality" includes internal quality such as the moisture content, protein content, or amylose content of the grain. The quality measuring instrument 1 outputs an electrical signal corresponding to the quality of the grain to the control device 51 as a measurement result. In this embodiment, as an example, the quality measuring instrument 1 includes a moisture meter for measuring the moisture content (moisture amount) of the grain. Specifically, the quality measuring instrument 1 is equipped with a pair of electrode rollers driven by motor power or the like, and measures the moisture content of the grain based on the change in the electrical resistance value between the pair of electrode rollers while crushing (crushing) the grain between the pair of electrode rollers.

[0039] The harvest yield sensor 53 is a sensor that detects the amount of grain harvested by the harvesting machine 4, that is, the harvest yield. This type of sensor, as an example, includes an impact detection unit such as a strain gauge or piezoelectric element, and detects the impact force when grain, which has been conveyed toward the grain tank 2 by the conveying device 45, collides with the impact detection unit. Of course, the method for obtaining the harvest yield of the harvesting machine 4 is not limited to this. The grain sensor 54 and the full-quantity sensor 55 are both sensors for detecting the amount of grain stored in the grain tank 2. As an example, the grain sensor 54 and the full-quantity sensor 55 are attached to the inner surface of the grain tank 2 and detect the grain stored in the grain tank 2.

[0040] The control device 51 can output the measurement results acquired by the quality measuring instrument 1, as well as the detection results of the harvest yield sensor 53, grain sensor 54, and fullness sensor 55, by appropriate means. For example, the control device 51 outputs this information by displaying it on a display device installed in the operation unit 47, writing it to a recording medium, transmitting it externally (to a server, etc.) via the communication terminal 52, or printing it. Furthermore, the control device 51 can also use this information to control, for example, the conveying device 45 and the quality measuring instrument 1.

[0041] For example, the control device 51 basically keeps the quality measuring instrument 1 running at all times, measuring the quality of the grain as it is being processed. In other words, the quality measuring instrument 1 is constantly taking in grain and measuring the quality of the grain as it is being processed. On the other hand, when the control device 51 detects grain in the grain sensor 54 inside the grain tank 2, it stops the quality measuring instrument 1 and stops taking in grain. That is, when the quality measuring instrument 1 detects grain in the grain sensor 54 located inside the grain tank 2, it stops measuring the quality. This makes it possible to stop the operation of the quality measuring instrument 1 according to the amount of grain stored in the grain tank 2.

[0042] Furthermore, the full-capacity sensor 55 is a sensor that detects when the grain tank 2 has reached its full capacity. Therefore, when the full-capacity sensor 55 in the grain tank 2 detects grain, the control device 51 notifies the operator of this fact (that the tank has reached its full capacity). Alternatively, when the full-capacity sensor 55 in the grain tank 2 detects grain, the control device 51 may stop the conveying device 45 and forcibly stop the loading of grain into the grain tank 2.

[0043] The communication terminal 52 communicates with an external server or the like from the harvesting machine 4. Here, the communication terminal 52 appropriately transmits information to the server or the like regarding the operating status of the harvesting machine 4, the current location of the harvesting machine 4, the amount of crop harvested (yield), the taste of the crop (including moisture content or protein content, etc.), working time, or working efficiency. In this embodiment, the communication terminal 52 is configured to detect the current location of the harvesting machine 4 using a satellite positioning system such as GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System). The communication terminal 52 may also receive control information from the server or the like related to the operation support or automatic operation of the harvesting machine 4.

[0044] [2] Grain tank and surrounding equipment configuration Next, the configuration of the grain tank 2 and the surrounding conveying device 45 in the harvesting machine 4 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 4 to 14. Furthermore, the following description will use the orientation when the grain tank 2 is in the closed position.

[0045] Figure 5 is a schematic plan view of the interior space Sp1 of the grain tank 2, viewed from above, with the top of the grain tank 2 cut away. Figure 6 is an enlarged view of region Z1 in Figure 5. Figures 7 and 8 are schematic perspective views of the left panel 204 from inside the grain tank 2 with the ceiling panel 206 of the grain tank 2 removed. Figure 9 is a side view of the left panel 204 of the grain tank 2, viewed from the inside (i.e., the right side) of the grain tank 2, with the ceiling panel 206 of the grain tank 2 removed. Figure 10 is a view taken along the line A1-A1 in Figure 9.

[0046] In this embodiment, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, the grain tank 2 has a bottom panel 201, a front panel 202, a rear panel 203, a left panel 204, a right panel 205, and a ceiling panel 206, and is roughly formed in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped with a length in the front-to-back direction D2. In this embodiment, as an example, the components of the grain tank 2 (bottom panel 201, front panel 202, rear panel 203, left panel 204, right panel 205, and ceiling panel 206) are made of metal with sufficient rigidity. However, it is not limited to this, and at least some of the components of the grain tank 2 may be made of resin or the like.

[0047] The bottom panel 201 is a rectangular panel with length in the front-to-back direction D2 (second direction) in a plan view. The front panel 202 is a rectangular panel formed to rise upward from the front edge of the outer periphery of the bottom panel 201. The rear panel 203 is a rectangular panel that rises upward from the rear edge of the outer periphery of the bottom panel 201. The left panel 204 is a rectangular panel that rises upward from the left edge of the outer periphery of the bottom panel 201. The right panel 205 is a rectangular panel that rises upward from the right edge of the outer periphery of the bottom panel 201. As a result, the space above the bottom panel 201 is surrounded on all four sides (front, back, left, and right) by the front panel 202, rear panel 203, left panel 204, and right panel 205. Furthermore, the ceiling panel 206 is a panel formed in a rectangular shape in plan view that covers the upper surface of the space enclosed by the front panel 202, the rear panel 203, the left panel 204, and the right panel 205.

[0048] In other words, the grain tank 2 has an internal space Sp1 enclosed by a bottom panel 201, a front panel 202, a rear panel 203, a left panel 204, a right panel 205, and a ceiling panel 206, and is configured to store grain in this internal space Sp1. The front panel 202 and the rear panel 203 face each other in the front-to-back direction D2 (second direction). The left panel 204 and the right panel 205 face each other in the left-to-right direction D1 (first direction). The bottom panel 201 and the ceiling panel 206 face each other in the up-to-down direction D3. The center C1 of the grain tank 2, configured in this way, is located within the internal space Sp1, as shown in Figure 5. The center C1 shown in Figure 5 is a virtual point that does not have a physical form.

[0049] Here, grain is fed into the internal space Sp1 of the grain tank 2 from the input section 453 located at the top of the grain tank 2, as described above. In this embodiment, as an example, as shown in Figure 4, the input section 453 is provided at the upper end of the left panel 204 of the grain tank 2. Specifically, an input port 21 (see Figure 7, etc.) is formed in the center of the upper end of the left panel 204 in the front-rear direction D2, and the input section 453 is attached to a position corresponding to the input port 21 of the left panel 204. The input port 21 opens onto the inner surface 20 (see Figure 7, etc.) of the grain tank 2, and the input section 453 feeds grain into the grain tank 2 from the input port 21. In other words, the surface of the left panel 204 facing the internal space Sp1 of the grain tank 2 constitutes the inner surface 20 (left inner surface) of the grain tank 2, and grain is fed into the internal space Sp1 of the grain tank 2 from the input port 21 that opens onto this inner surface 20.

[0050] In this embodiment, the input port 21 is formed in the shape of a rectangle having a length in the front-to-back direction D2 (see Figure 7, etc.), and the input section 453 is fixed to the grain tank 2 so as to cover the entire input port 21 from the outside of the grain tank 2. In other words, as shown in Figure 4, the input section 453 is fixed to the left panel 204 so as to protrude outward (to the left) from the left panel 204. Since the input section 453 is connected to the upper end of the vertical conveying section 452, the grain threshed in the threshing section 43 is (sorted in the sorting section 44) and then conveyed (supplied) to the input section 453 by the horizontal conveying section 451 and the vertical conveying section 452. Therefore, the input section 453 puts the grain threshed in the threshing section 43 into the grain tank 2 from the input port 21 which opens on the inner surface 20 of the grain tank 2.

[0051] Specifically, as shown in Figures 5 and 6, the input section 453 includes a rotating body 454 and a cover 455. The rotating body 454 is a plate-shaped blade member that rotates around a rotation axis Ax1 (see Figure 6) along the vertical direction D3. In this embodiment, the rotating body 454 is located above the vertical conveying section 452, which consists of a screw conveyor, and rotates together with the vertical conveying section 452, with the same rotation axis as the vertical conveying section 452. The cover 455 constitutes the outer casing of the input section 453 and forms a space between it and the input opening 21 that accommodates the rotation area of ​​the rotating body 454. In this embodiment, as an example, the cover 455 is formed in a triangular shape in plan view.

[0052] With this configuration, as shown in Figure 6, the input unit 453 throws the grain X1 by having the rotating body 454 rotate in one direction (counterclockwise in this case) R1, thereby pushing the grain X1 out with the rotating body 454. Since the area around the rotating region of the rotating body 454 is covered by the cover 455, the area from which the grain X1 thrown by the rotating body 454 scatters is narrowed towards the input port 21 by the cover 455. As a result, the input unit 453 is able to input the grain X1 into the grain tank 2 from the input port 21.

[0053] In particular, as shown in Figure 6, if a virtual straight line VL1 is set in a plan view connecting the rear end of the cover 455 and the rotation axis Ax1 of the rotating body 454, and a virtual straight line VL2 is set passing through the rear end of the cover 455 and along the inner circumferential surface of the cover 455, then grain X1 will be thrown at least between the virtual straight lines VL1 and VL2. In other words, in the internal space Sp1 of the grain tank 2, the region between the virtual straight lines VL1 and VL2 in a plan view contains the main path X11 of the grain X1 that is fed into the grain tank 2 from the input port 21 by the input unit 453. Thus, in the input unit 453 according to this embodiment, the grain X1 fed into the grain tank 2 from the input port 21 is mainly thrown diagonally to the right and rear from the input port 21.

[0054] In addition, in this embodiment, a harvest yield sensor 53 is attached to a part of the cover 455. As a result, the harvest yield sensor 53 detects the amount of grain harvested by the harvesting machine 4, i.e., the harvest yield (yield), based on the amount of grain that the input unit 453 puts into the grain tank 2.

[0055] As shown in Figures 7 to 12, the quality measuring instrument 1 has a case 11, and the main body of the quality measuring instrument 1 (electrode rollers, etc.) is located inside the case 11. The case 11 is formed in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped with a length D3 in the vertical direction, and constitutes the outer casing of the quality measuring instrument 1. An intake port 12 is formed on the upper right side of the case 11, and an outlet port 13 is formed on the lower right side of the case 11. The intake port 12 is an opening for taking grain into the quality measuring instrument 1. The outlet port 13 is an opening for discharging the grain whose quality has been measured into the grain tank 2. In this embodiment, the quality measuring instrument 1 measures the quality of the grain by crushing it inside, so the grain taken in from the intake port 12 is crushed inside the quality measuring instrument 1, and the crushed grain is discharged from the outlet port 13.

[0056] The quality measuring instrument 1 has a collection device 10 for taking in grains. The collection device 10 takes in grains from the collection port 12 of the quality measuring instrument 1 by conveying the grains. In this embodiment, as an example, the collection device 10 includes a collection roller 14 having spiral ribs formed on its outer surface. The collection device 10 conveys the grains on the collection roller 14 toward the collection port 12 by rotating the collection roller 14.

[0057] Specifically, the intake device 10 has a pair of intake rollers 14 that protrude to the right from the right side of the case 11. The pair of intake rollers 14 are located directly below the intake port 12 and are driven to rotate, thereby drawing grain into the intake port 12. In other words, the quality measuring instrument 1 performs grain collection and quality measurement by rotating the pair of intake rollers 14, which act as the intake device 10. Here, spiral ribs are formed on the outer circumferential surface of each intake roller 14. When the pair of intake rollers 14 rotate with grain placed on top of them, the ribs on each intake roller 14 move the grain towards the intake port 12 (i.e., to the left). As a result, when the pair of intake rollers 14 rotate, grain is collected from the intake port 12 to the quality measuring instrument 1, and when the pair of intake rollers 14 stop, the collection of grain to the quality measuring instrument 1 stops.

[0058] In this embodiment, the quality measuring instrument 1 is mounted on the left panel 204 of the grain tank 2. In a right-side view, the quality measuring instrument 1 is positioned behind and below the input port 21 (i.e., diagonally downward and backward). In this embodiment, the quality measuring instrument 1 is also positioned in a recess 207 that is recessed to the left of the left panel 204 of the grain tank 2. In other words, the inner surface 20 (left inner surface) of the grain tank 2 is partially recessed by the recess 207 of the left panel 204, and the internal space Sp1 is expanded to the left by the amount of this recess 207. In this embodiment, as an example, the recess 207 is formed in a trapezoidal shape in a plan view (see Figure 5). The quality measuring instrument 1 is positioned inside the grain tank 2 (internal space Sp1) by being fixed to the upper surface (ceiling surface) of the recess 207 with fasteners such as bolts.

[0059] Here, the quality measuring instrument 1 is positioned on the same side as the inlet 21 when viewed from the center C1 (see Figure 5) of the grain tank 2 in the first direction (left-right direction D1) perpendicular to the vertical direction D3. That is, in this embodiment, the positional relationship between the inlet 21 and the quality measuring instrument 1 in the grain tank 2 is such that, in the first direction, they are on the same side when viewed from the center C1 of the grain tank 2. In this embodiment, the first direction is the left-right direction D1, and the inlet 21 is formed on the inner surface 20 (left inner surface) of the left panel 204. Therefore, the quality measuring instrument 1 is also positioned on the left panel 204, just like the inlet 21. In other words, both the inlet 21 and the quality measuring instrument 1 are positioned on the same surface (left side) in the left-right direction D1 (first direction) in the internal space Sp1 of the grain tank 2.

[0060] This configuration makes it less likely for the grains fed into the grain tank 2 from the input port 21 to directly hit the quality measuring instrument 1. As a result, the quality measuring instrument 1 is less likely to be subjected to constant shock and vibration, and even if the harvesting machine 4 is used for a long period of time, the reliability of the quality measuring instrument 1 is less likely to deteriorate.

[0061] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 5, in the first direction (left-right direction D1), the distance L1 from the quality measuring instrument 1 to the center C1 of the grain tank 2 is greater than the distance L2 from the input port 21 to the center C1 of the grain tank 2 (L1 > L2). In other words, since the quality measuring instrument 1 is set back to the left of the input port 21, in a plan view, it is located further away from the input port 21 than the input port 21 when viewed from the center line Lc1 passing through the center C1 of the grain tank 2. This configuration has the advantage that grains fed into the grain tank 2 from the input port 21 are less likely to hit the quality measuring instrument 1, and the reliability of the quality measuring instrument 1 is less likely to decrease.

[0062] Furthermore, the harvesting machine 4 according to this embodiment is further equipped with a guide member 6. The guide member 6 is a member that guides the grains introduced into the grain tank 2 from the input port 21 onto the intake device 10 of the quality measuring instrument 1. By providing such a guide member 6, it becomes possible to efficiently collect the grains into the quality measuring instrument 1 while avoiding the grains introduced from the input port 21 directly hitting the quality measuring instrument 1.

[0063] In this embodiment, as an example, a portion of the guide member 6 is positioned on the path X11 (see Figure 6) of the grain that is introduced into the grain tank 2 from the input port 21, guiding the colliding grain out of the path X11. That is, a portion of the guide member 6 is positioned on the path X11 of the grain that is introduced into the grain tank 2 by the input unit 453. As a result, a portion of the grain introduced (thrown) from the input port 21 by the input unit 453 collides with a portion of the guide member 6, loses momentum, and is guided out of the path X11. In this configuration, the guide member 6 can guide the grain to the intake device 10 of the quality measuring instrument 1 by diverting the grain from the path X11, utilizing the momentum of the grain introduced by the input unit 453.

[0064] Specifically, as shown in Figures 7 and 8, the guide member 6 has a cylindrical portion 61 and a holding portion 62. The cylindrical portion 61 is, for example, a hollow cylindrical resin member formed in a cylindrical shape, with both longitudinal ends open. The holding portion 62 is a member for holding the cylindrical portion 61, and for example, consists of a retaining fitting. The holding portion 62 holds (supports) the cylindrical portion 61 with respect to the left panel 204.

[0065] Here, the cylindrical portion 61 is held in an oblique position above the intake device 10 (a pair of intake rollers 14) in the quality measuring instrument 1. In other words, the cylindrical portion 61 is held in a position that extends diagonally upward and to the right from the intake device 10, with its lower opening surface facing the pair of intake rollers 14 which constitute the intake device 10. An inlet portion 63 for introducing grain is formed at the upper end of the cylindrical portion 61. Furthermore, the lower opening surface of the cylindrical portion 61 that faces the pair of intake rollers 14 constitutes an outlet portion 64 (see Figure 10) for discharging the grain. As a result, the guide member 6 guides the grain introduced into the cylindrical portion 61 from the inlet portion 63 through the inside of the cylindrical portion 61 to the outlet portion 64, and then discharges it from the outlet portion 64 onto the intake device 10 (a pair of intake rollers 14).

[0066] More specifically, in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 10, the tips of the pair of intake rollers 14 protrude to the right from the recess 207, and the outlet portion 64 of the cylindrical portion 61 is positioned opposite to the portion of the pair of intake rollers 14 that protrudes to the right from the recess 207. Therefore, the inlet portion 63 formed at the upper end of the cylindrical portion 61, which is positioned to extend diagonally upward and to the right from the pair of intake rollers 14, is located outside (to the right) of the recess 207. The inlet portion 63 is formed to open into a part of the circumferential surface at the upper end of the cylindrical portion 61. In this embodiment, as an example, the inlet portion 63 is formed by partially cutting out a portion of the cylindrical portion 61 that is diagonally upward and forward. Furthermore, the opening surface of the cylindrical portion 61 on the inlet portion 63 side (upper side) is closed by the holding portion 62.

[0067] The guide member 6, configured in this way, protrudes from the quality measuring instrument 1 toward the center C1 of the grain tank 2 in the first direction (left-right direction D1). Here, the input port 21 is located between the tip of the guide member 6 and the quality measuring instrument 1 in the first direction (left-right direction D1). In other words, as shown in Figures 6 and 10, when viewed from the input port 21, the tip of the guide member 6 is located on the right side in the left-right direction D1 (first direction), and the quality measuring instrument 1 is located on the left side in the left-right direction D1 (first direction). With this positional relationship, it is possible to guide the grain from the tip of the guide member 6, which is located on the opposite side of the first direction when viewed from the input port 21, to the quality measuring instrument 1 (its intake device 10).

[0068] Furthermore, the quality measuring instrument 1 and the input port 21 are arranged side by side in a second direction (front-to-back direction D2) that is perpendicular to both the vertical direction D3 and the first direction (left-to-right direction D1). The guide member 6 has an inlet 63 that opens toward the input port 21 in the second direction (front-to-back direction D2) and introduces grain. In other words, in this embodiment, the quality measuring instrument 1 is located behind the input port 21, and the inlet 63 of the guide member 6 opens toward the front, toward the input port 21. Therefore, the grain introduced into the grain tank 2 from the input port 21 is introduced into the cylindrical portion 61 from the inlet 63 of the guide member 6 located on its path X11. The grain introduced into the cylindrical portion 61 then falls through the cylindrical portion 61 to the outlet 64 and onto the pair of intake rollers 14 which serve as the intake device 10. In this way, the guide member 6 can guide the grain to the intake device 10 of the quality measuring instrument 1.

[0069] Furthermore, the guide member 6 has an outlet 64 located below the inlet 63 and above the grain intake port 12 of the quality measuring instrument 1, and is configured to allow grain to pass from the inlet 63 to the outlet 64. Here, the inlet 63 is located at the same position as the input port 21 in the vertical direction D3, or below the input port 21. In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 9, the height H1 of the inlet 63 in the vertical direction D3 partially overlaps with the height H2 of the input port 21 in the vertical direction D3. In other words, a part of the inlet 63 is located at the same position as the input port 21 in the vertical direction D3, and the remaining part is located below the input port 21. With this positional relationship between the inlet 63 and the input port 21, it becomes easier to capture the grain being fed into the grain tank 2 from the input port 21 at the inlet 63, and it becomes easier to guide the grain to the quality measuring instrument 1 with the guide member 6.

[0070] As mentioned above, a grain sensor 54 and a full-level sensor 55 are located inside the grain tank 2. In this embodiment, as an example, both the grain sensor 54 and the full-level sensor 55 are sensors that detect grain when the surface facing the internal space Sp1 of the grain tank 2 is pushed in by the pressure from the grain. In other words, since grain gradually accumulates in the internal space Sp1 of the grain tank 2, the grain sensor 54 detects grain when the grain reaches the position of the grain sensor 54. Similarly, the full-level sensor 55 detects fullness when the grain reaches the position of the full-level sensor 55. In this embodiment, a (second) full-level sensor 56, separate from the full-level sensor 55, is located above the quality measuring instrument 1. This full-level sensor 56 is located at the same height as the input port 21.

[0071] Incidentally, the harvesting machine 4 according to this embodiment is further equipped with a regulating member 3 that regulates the amount of grain X1 taken into the quality measuring instrument 1, as shown in Figures 11 to 14. The regulating member 3 regulates the amount of grain X1 taken into the quality measuring instrument 1 in at least one of the grain X1 transport path 30 by the intake device 10 and the intake port 12. In this embodiment, the intake device 10 has a pair of intake rollers 14 as described above, and with the grain X1 placed above the pair of intake rollers 14, the grain X1 is transported towards the intake port 12 side on the pair of intake rollers 14 by the ribs of each intake roller 14. In other words, the grain X1 transport path 30 by the intake device 10 is formed above the pair of intake rollers 14, as shown in Figures 13 and 14.

[0072] In this disclosure, "regulation" means imposing some kind of restriction. Specifically, the regulating member 3 is placed in at least one of the grain transport path 30 and the intake port 12, and limits the amount of grain X1 that can pass through per unit time (passage rate), thereby limiting the amount of grain X1 taken into the quality measuring instrument 1 per unit time (take-in rate). Specifically, the regulating member 3 restricts the amount of grain X1 taken in by narrowing the cross-sectional area perpendicular to the direction of movement of the grain X1 in at least one of the grain transport path 30 and the intake port 12, thereby obstructing the movement of the grain X1.

[0073] The restricting member 3 only needs to restrict the amount of grain X1 taken in at least one of the transport path 30 and the intake port 12. In this embodiment, as an example, the amount of grain X1 taken in is restricted in the transport path 30. In other words, the restricting member 3 restricts the amount of grain X1 taken in in the transport path 30 up to the intake port 12.

[0074] As described above, the harvesting machine 4 according to this embodiment includes a grain tank 2 for storing grain X1, a quality measuring instrument 1, and a regulating member 3. The quality measuring instrument 1 is positioned facing the internal space Sp1 of the grain tank 2 and measures the quality of the grain X1. The regulating member 3 regulates the amount of grain X1 taken into the quality measuring instrument 1 at least one of the grain X1 transport path 30 by the intake device 10 and the intake port 12. The intake device 10 takes in the grain X1 from the intake port 12 of the quality measuring instrument 1 by transporting the grain X1.

[0075] In other words, in this embodiment, the amount of grain X1 taken into the quality measuring instrument 1 per unit time (take-in amount) is regulated by the regulating member 3. Therefore, for example, even if the amount of grain X1 stored in the grain tank 2 reaches a level that fills the intake port 12 of the quality measuring instrument 1, it is possible to avoid a large amount of grain X1 being taken into the quality measuring instrument 1 at once from the intake port 12. Consequently, it becomes easier to avoid situations where grain X1 clogs the measuring section inside the quality measuring instrument 1, and it becomes less likely that the quality measurement of grain X1 in the quality measuring instrument 1 will be hindered. As a result, it is possible to provide a harvesting machine 4 in which the reliability of the quality measured by the quality measuring instrument 1 is less likely to decrease.

[0076] The regulating member 3 will now be described in more detail. As shown in Figures 11 and 12, the regulating member 3 is removably fixed to the case 11 of the quality measuring instrument 1 with fasteners 71 such as bolts. Figure 12 shows an enlarged view of only the regulating member 3 inside the blowout. Here, the regulating member 3 is attached to the right side of the case 11 where the intake port 12 is provided, at a position corresponding to the intake device 10.

[0077] The regulating member 3 comprises a regulating piece 31, a pair of lateral pieces 32, and a pair of mounting pieces 33. The regulating piece 31 is a flat plate-shaped member with a length in the front-rear direction D2 and perpendicular to the up-down direction D3. The pair of lateral pieces 32 are flat plate-shaped members that protrude downward from both ends of the regulating piece 31 in the longitudinal direction (front-rear direction D2). The pair of mounting pieces 33 are flat plate-shaped members that protrude from the end edge (left end edge) of the pair of lateral pieces 32 on the case 11 side of the quality measuring instrument 1 toward both sides in the front-rear direction D2. In this embodiment, as an example, the regulating piece 31, the pair of lateral pieces 32, and the pair of mounting pieces 33 are formed as a continuous, integral piece by bending a single metal plate.

[0078] With the above configuration, the restricting piece 31 and the pair of lateral pieces 32 form a roughly C-shaped member that is open downwards when viewed from the right side. The restricting member 3 is attached to the case 11 of the quality measuring instrument 1 by a pair of mounting pieces 33 such that the intake device 10 (a pair of intake rollers 14) is positioned in the area enclosed by the restricting piece 31 and the pair of lateral pieces 32. In other words, the restricting member 3 is positioned to cover at least a part of the intake device 10 from above.

[0079] Here, each mounting piece 33 has an elongated hole 34 having a length in the vertical direction D3. The elongated hole 34 is a hole for passing a fastener 71 through, and the regulating member 3 is fixed to the case 11 by tightening the fastener 71 to the case 11 through the elongated hole 34. Because the elongated hole 34 has a length in the vertical direction D3, the relative position (height) of the regulating member 3 in the vertical direction D3 with respect to the case 11 can be adjusted. In Figure 13, the fastener 71 is not shown.

[0080] Such a restricting member 3 limits the amount of grain X1 taken into the quality measuring instrument 1 by restricting the height of the transport path 30. In other words, since the restricting member 3 is positioned to cover the intake device 10 from above, it restricts the height of the transport path 30 of the grain X1 formed on the intake device 10 (a pair of intake rollers 14). As a result, an amount of grain X1 exceeding the height of the restricted transport path 30 will not pass through the transport path 30 at the same time, and the amount of grain X1 taken into the quality measuring instrument 1 will be reliably restricted.

[0081] Furthermore, the regulating member 3 has a regulating piece 31 above the intake device 10 that limits the height of the transport path 30. Therefore, the height of the transport path 30 is limited by the height from the intake device 10 to the regulating piece 31, and the amount of grain X1 taken into the quality measuring instrument 1 is reliably regulated. Here, grain X1 that rides up onto the regulating piece 31 will spill out from above the intake device 10, thus preventing clogging on the intake device 10.

[0082] In short, as shown in Figure 13, the grains X1 discharged from the guide member 6 onto the intake device 10 are moved by the intake device 10 along the transport path 30 on the intake device 10 toward the intake port 12 (to the left in Figure 13). Here, since the restricting piece 31 covers at least a part of the intake device 10, grains X1 that exceed the height from the intake device 10 to the lower surface of the restricting piece 31 cannot pass through the restricting piece 31. Therefore, the amount of grains X1 taken in from the intake port 12 by the intake device 10 is restricted by the restricting member 3.

[0083] Furthermore, the restricting member 3 has a pair of lateral pieces 32 that cover the sides of the intake device 10. This prevents the grain X1 from coming into contact with the intake device 10 (a pair of intake rollers 14) from the side, thereby suppressing the entanglement of the grain X1. Thus, even if the amount of grain X1 stored in the grain tank 2 reaches a level that completely fills the intake port 12 of the quality measuring instrument 1, the grain X1 can be protected from the intake device 10, making it easier to avoid the grain X1 getting caught in the intake device 10 and being crushed.

[0084] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 13, the restricting member 3 has a gap 35 between it and the intake port 12 in the extension direction of the transport path 30. Specifically, a gap 35 is secured between the restricting piece 31 of the restricting member 3, which is located at a position overlapping with the intake port 12 in the extension direction of the transport path 30 (left-right direction D1), and the right side surface of the case 11 of the quality measuring instrument 1. This gap 35 makes it possible for the restricting member 3 to avoid interference with the scraper 15 (see Figure 14), which rotates integrally with the intake roller 14. The scraper 15 is provided, for example, at the base end of one of the intake rollers 14 and removes foreign matter (including grains X1) that adheres around the intake port 12 by scraping it off. Since the gap 35 of the restricting member 3 functions as a "relief" for the scraper 15, interference between the scraper 15 and the restricting member 3 can be avoided.

[0085] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 14, the restricting member 3 can adjust the level of restriction on the amount of grain X1 taken in. Here, "restricting level" refers to the degree to which the amount of grain X1 taken in is restricted; the looser the restriction level, the more grain X1 is taken in. Such restriction levels are adjusted, for example, according to the size (type) of the grain X1 to be harvested. Specifically, in this embodiment, the restriction level on the amount of grain X1 taken in can be adjusted by adjusting the relative position (height) of the restricting member 3 in the vertical direction D3 with respect to the case 11 using the elongated hole 34 formed in the mounting piece 33. Since the height of the restricting member 3 in the vertical direction D3 can be adjusted steplessly using the elongated hole 34, the restriction level can be adjusted steplessly.

[0086] For example, as shown in the upper part of Figure 14, when the restricting member 3 is attached to the lower end of the movable range, the restriction level of the amount of grain X1 taken in becomes the strictest, the amount of grain X1 that can pass through the restricting member 3 decreases, and the amount of grain X1 taken in decreases. Conversely, as shown in the lower part of Figure 14, when the restricting member 3 is attached to the upper end of the movable range, the restriction level of the amount of grain X1 taken in becomes the loosest, the amount of grain X1 that can pass through the restricting member 3 increases, and the amount of grain X1 taken in increases. As an example, if the harvesting machine 4 is a self-propelled combine harvester and the target crop is "rice" or "wheat", it is preferable to adjust the height from the intake device 10 to the restricting piece 31 to about 4 mm. On the other hand, if the harvesting machine 4 is a conventional combine harvester and the target crop is "soybeans", it is preferable to adjust the height from the intake device 10 to the restricting piece 31 to about 8 mm.

[0087] Furthermore, the harvesting machine 4 according to this embodiment is further equipped with a guide member 6 that guides the grain X1, which has been introduced into the grain tank 2 as described above, onto the intake device 10 of the quality measuring instrument 1. This guide member 6 guides the grain X1 to the upstream end of the transport path 30. In other words, the restricting member 3 restricts the amount of grain X1 that has been guided to the upstream end of the transport path 30 by the guide member 6 to be taken into the quality measuring instrument 1. Therefore, by restricting the amount taken in with the restricting member 3 while actively guiding the grain X1 into the transport path 30 with the guide member 6, it becomes possible to ensure a stable intake of grain X1 into the quality measuring instrument 1.

[0088] Here, as shown in Figure 13, the restricting member 3 is located downstream of the guide member 6 in the direction of extension of the transport path 30. In other words, the grains X1 guided by the guide member 6 are dropped upstream of the restricting member 3 in the transport path 30. Thus, the protrusion (amount of projection) of the restricting member 3 from the case 11 in the direction of extension of the transport path 30 (left-right direction D1) is set according to the drop position of the grains X1 from the guide member 6. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the grains X1 guided by the guide member 6 from reaching the intake port 12 without passing through the restricting member 3, and the amount of grain taken in by the restricting member 3 can be reliably restricted.

[0089] Furthermore, the harvesting machine 4 according to this embodiment further includes a canopy member 8, as shown in Figures 11 and 12. The canopy member 8 covers the discharge port 13 from the outside, which discharges the grain X1 after measurement in the quality measuring instrument 1, and secures a discharge space around the discharge port 13. The canopy member 8 is, for example, a flat plate-shaped member that protrudes diagonally downward from the right side of the case 11. With such a canopy member 8, a discharge space that is at least open at the bottom is secured around the discharge port 13. Therefore, for example, even if the amount of grain X1 stored in the grain tank 2 reaches a level that completely fills the discharge port 13 of the quality measuring instrument 1, it is possible to avoid the discharge port 13 of the quality measuring instrument 1 being blocked by grain X1, and to enable the discharge of grain X1 from the quality measuring instrument 1.

[0090] [3] Variant The following lists some modifications of Embodiment 1. The modifications described below can be combined and applied as appropriate.

[0091] As a first modification of Embodiment 1, as shown in Figure 15, the regulating member 3 may be configured to regulate the amount of grain X1 taken in at the intake port 12. This regulating member 3 has a shielding piece 36 instead of a regulating piece 31 and a pair of lateral pieces 32. The shielding piece 36 covers the upper part of the intake port 12, thereby substantially limiting the amount of grain X1 that can pass through the intake port 12 and regulating the amount taken in. Furthermore, the regulating member 3 may regulate the amount of grain X1 taken in at both the transport path 30 and the intake port 12.

[0092] Furthermore, the harvesting machine 4 is not limited to a conventional combine harvester; it may also be a self-propelled combine harvester or any other type of harvesting machine.

[0093] Furthermore, the specific shape and dimensions of the restricting member 3 are not limited to the example shown in Embodiment 1. The protrusion (amount of projection) of the restricting member 3 from the case 11 in the extension direction (left-right direction D1) of the transport path 30 may be adjustable.

[0094] Furthermore, the regulating member 3 may be adjustable in stages, or it may have markings for height adjustment. In addition, it is not essential for the intake device 10 to have a pair of intake rollers 14. Also, the canopy member 8 is not an essential component of the harvesting machine 4.

[0095] Furthermore, the configuration of the grain sensor 54 and the full-size sensor 55 is not limited to the above configuration; for example, they may be sensors that detect grains in a non-contact manner, such as optical sensors.

[0096] Furthermore, the quality measuring instrument 1 only needs to be positioned on the same side as the inlet 21 when viewed from the center C1 of the grain tank 2 in the first direction (left-right direction D1) perpendicular to the vertical direction D3, and it is not necessary for it to be positioned on the left side of the internal space Sp1 of the grain tank 2. For example, if the conveying device 45 supporting the quality measuring instrument 1 is located on the right side of the grain tank 2, both the inlet 21 and the quality measuring instrument 1 may be positioned on the right side of the grain tank 2, which is the same plane in the left-right direction D1 (first direction) of the internal space Sp1 of the grain tank 2.

[0097] Furthermore, it is not mandatory for the first direction to be the left-right direction D1; for example, the first direction may be the front-back direction D2. In this case, the quality measuring instrument 1 will be positioned on the same side as the input port 21 when viewed from the center C1 of the grain tank 2 in the front-back direction D2. In other words, if the conveying device 45 supporting the quality measuring instrument 1 is located on the front side of the grain tank 2, both the input port 21 and the quality measuring instrument 1 may be positioned on the front (or rear) side of the grain tank 2, which is the same plane in the front-back direction D2 within the internal space Sp1 of the grain tank 2.

[0098] Furthermore, it is not essential that the quality measuring instrument 1 be positioned on the same side as the inlet 21 when viewed from the center C1 of the grain tank 2 in the first direction perpendicular to the vertical direction D3.

[0099] The specific shape and dimensions of the guide member 6, etc., are not limited to the example shown in Embodiment 1. Furthermore, it is not essential that the harvesting machine 4 is equipped with the guide member 6.

[0100] Furthermore, the driver's unit 47 is not limited to a canopy type; for example, it may be a cabin type or a floor type.

[0101] (Embodiment 2) The harvesting machine 4 according to this embodiment differs from the harvesting machine 4 according to Embodiment 1 in that the quality measuring instrument 1 measures the protein content of the grains. Hereinafter, components similar to those in Embodiment 1 will be denoted by common reference numerals and their descriptions will be omitted as appropriate.

[0102] In the harvesting machine 4 according to this embodiment, the quality measuring instrument 1 takes in grains that have been fed into the grain tank 2 from the input port 21 and measures the protein content of the grains. In this embodiment as well, the amount of grain taken into the quality measuring instrument 1 is regulated by the regulating member 3.

[0103] The quality measuring instrument 1 can be any device that measures the quality of grains, and the quality to be measured is not limited to the moisture content of the grains (Embodiment 1) and the protein content (Embodiment 2), but may also be, for example, the amylose content, or a combination thereof.

[0104] The configuration of Embodiment 2 (including modified versions) can be adopted in appropriate combination with the various configurations (including modified versions) described in Embodiment 1.

[0105] [Notes on the invention] The following is an overview of the invention extracted from the above-described embodiments. Note that each configuration and processing function described below can be selected and combined as desired.

[0106] <Note 1> A grain tank for storing grain, A quality measuring instrument is positioned to face the internal space of the grain tank and to measure the quality of the grain, The system includes a regulating member that regulates the amount of grain taken into the quality measuring instrument by a grain transport device that transports the grain and takes the grain into the quality measuring instrument through the intake port, in at least one of the grain transport path and the intake port, Harvesting machine.

[0107] <Note 2> The regulating member restricts the amount of grain taken into the quality measuring instrument by limiting the height of the transport path. The harvesting machine described in Appendix 1.

[0108] <Note 3> The restricting member has a restricting piece above the intake device that limits the height of the transport path. The harvesting machine described in Appendix 2.

[0109] <Note 4> The restricting member has a lateral piece that covers the side of the intake device. A harvesting machine as described in any of the appendices 1 to 3.

[0110] <Note 5> The restricting member has a gap between it and the intake opening in the direction of extension of the transport path. A harvesting machine as described in any of the appendices 1 to 4.

[0111] <Note 6> The regulating member is capable of adjusting the regulating level of the amount of grain taken in. A harvesting machine as described in any of the appendices 1 to 5.

[0112] <Note 7> The upstream end of the transport path is further provided with a guide member for guiding the grains. A harvesting machine as described in any of the appendices 1 to 6.

[0113] <Note 8> The regulating member is located downstream of the guide member in the direction of extension of the transport path. The harvesting machinery described in Appendix 7.

[0114] <Note 9> The aforementioned intake device includes an intake roller having spiral ribs formed on its outer surface, and by rotating the intake roller, the grain on the intake roller is conveyed toward the intake opening. A harvesting machine as described in any of the appendices 1 to 8.

[0115] <Note 10> The quality measuring instrument further includes a canopy member that covers the outlet from the outside for discharging the grain after measurement, and secures a discharge space around the outlet. A harvesting machine as described in any of the appendices 1 to 9. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0116] 1 Quality measuring instrument 2 Glen Tank 3 Regulating members 4. Harvesting machinery 6 Guide members 8 Eave parts 10. Intake device 12 Intake 13 Outlet 30. Transport Route 31 Regulatory piece 32 Lateral piece 35 gaps 14. Intake roller X1 grain Sp1 Internal space

Claims

1. A grain tank for storing grain, A quality measuring instrument is positioned to face the internal space of the grain tank and to measure the quality of the grain, The system includes a regulating member that regulates the amount of grain taken into the quality measuring instrument by a grain transport device that transports the grain and takes the grain into the quality measuring instrument through the intake port, in at least one of the grain transport path and the intake port, The aforementioned restraining member is It is plate-shaped and positioned above the intake device such that one surface in the thickness direction faces the intake device from above, and has a restricting piece that limits the height of the transport path, The regulating piece restricts the height of the transport path, thereby regulating the amount of grain taken into the quality measuring instrument. Harvesting machine.

2. A grain tank for storing grain, A quality measuring instrument is positioned to face the internal space of the grain tank and to measure the quality of the grain, The system includes a regulating member that regulates the amount of grain taken into the quality measuring instrument by a grain transport device that transports the grain and takes the grain into the quality measuring instrument through the intake port, in at least one of the grain transport path and the intake port, The restricting member has a lateral piece that covers the side of the intake device. Harvesting machine.

3. A grain tank for storing grain, A quality measuring instrument is positioned to face the internal space of the grain tank and to measure the quality of the grain, The system includes a regulating member that regulates the amount of grain taken into the quality measuring instrument by a grain transport device that transports the grain and takes the grain into the quality measuring instrument through the intake port, in at least one of the grain transport path and the intake port, The restricting member has a gap between it and the intake opening in the direction of extension of the transport path. Harvesting machine.

4. The regulating member is capable of adjusting the regulating level of the amount of grain taken in. A harvesting machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The upstream end of the transport path is further provided with a guide member for guiding the grains. A harvesting machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

6. The regulating member is located downstream of the guide member in the direction of extension of the transport path. The harvesting machine according to claim 5.

7. The aforementioned intake device includes an intake roller having spiral ribs formed on its outer surface, and by rotating the intake roller, the grain on the intake roller is conveyed toward the intake opening. A harvesting machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

8. The quality measuring instrument further includes a canopy member that covers the outlet from the outside for discharging the grain after measurement, and secures a discharge space around the outlet. A harvesting machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

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