An agricultural machine and a method for feeding agricultural products from the ground to an agricultural machine

Abstract

Described is an agricultural machine (B) provided with a pickup unit (1) which comprises: a first side wall (202A) and a second side wall (202B) fixed to the first and the second end of a beam (201) which delimit an inner space (IS) of the frame (2) of the agricultural machine; a pickup transmission shaft (4) rotatably mounted on the first and second side walls; a screw feeder transmission shaft (6A, 6B) rotatably mounted on one of the first or second side walls; a transmission shaft (7), mounted on the first or second side wall, configured for transmitting a drive torque to the pickup transmission shaft (4); the transmission shaft being kinematically connected to a rotor drive shaft; a transmission mechanism, including a transmission chain (9) positioned close to one of said first or second side walls and configured for kinematically interconnecting the pickup transmission shaft (4), the screw feeder transmission shaft (6A, 6B) and the transmission shaft (7), wherein the transmission mechanism (9) is positioned in the inner space (IS) of the frame.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] AN AGRICULTURAL MACHINE AND A METHOD FOR FEEDING AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS FROM THE GROUND TO AN AGRICULTURAL MACHINE

[0003] Technical field

[0004] This invention relates to an agricultural machine and a method for feeding agricultural products from the ground to an agricultural machine.

[0005] Background art

[0006] Roto-packing machines are a known example of agricultural machines.

[0007] Roto-baling machines are the most widespread agricultural machines which can be connected to the rear part of a machine, such as a tractor, for picking up from the ground agricultural products, such as rice, grass, wheat, corn and the like (hereinafter referred to as "hay") previously cut, for making a bale from the hay and for unloading the bale on the field. Typically, the baling machines have a feed unit suitable for picking up the hay from the ground, a compression chamber for forming the roto-bale and an apparatus for feeding the hay picked up from the ground to the compression chamber of the baler and they also include a binding system suitable for keeping wrapped and compacted the hay picked up and compressed in the special chamber. The compression chamber may have a fixed or variable volume (progressively increasing).

[0008] The feed unit typically includes a pickup reel provided with a plurality of tines for picking up the agricultural products from the ground. Moreover, the pickup reel is connected to a pickup transmission shaft which rotates about an axis of rotation.

[0009] The pickup transmission shaft receives a drive torque from a pickup transmission shaft, which is in turn coupled by kinematically to a drive shaft.

[0010] The feed unit also includes a pair of screw feeders to the right and left of the pickup reel which are used to direct the hay picked up towards the feed plane positioned along the central axis of the pickup apparatus. The screw feeders are connected to a screw feeder transmission shaft to rotate about an axis of rotation. in this context, patent document EP1920648B1 provides a unit for feeding a baler.

[0011] In the solution of EP1920648B1 , the pickup transmission shaft (connected to the pickup reel) is fixed by means of bearings to a supporting plate, which in turn is integral with a side wall located at an end of the pickup reel.

[0012] The pickup transmission shaft is interconnected kinematically to a transmission shaft, located downstream of the pickup reel, by means of a first transmission chain, located in an inner space of the pickup unit, defined by an inner face of the side wall, towards the pickup reel, whilst the screw feeder transmission shaft is interconnected kinematically to said transmission shaft by means of a second transmission chain, different from the first transmission chain, in a space outside the pickup unit, defined by an outer face of the side wall, opposite the inner face.

[0013] Another example of the prior art pickup units is described in patent document US6651418B1 , wherein a single transmission chain is provided which surrounds the pickup transmission shaft, the screw feeder transmission shaft and the drive shaft of the filling apparatus (stuffer) or rotor.

[0014] In this solution, the transmission chain is located outside the side walls which are located at two ends of the pickup reel.

[0015] Further examples of the prior art pickup units are described in patent documents EP1562739B1 , US2005210855A1 and EP3815507A1.

[0016] However, the prior art balers have some drawbacks and can be improved.

[0017] Disclosure of the Invention

[0018] The aim of this invention is to provide an agricultural machine and a method for feeding agricultural products from the ground to an agricultural machine which overcome the above-mentioned drawbacks of the prior art. In particular, it is necessary to make an agricultural machine that is particularly efficient, simple and safe.

[0019] According to an aspect of the invention, the invention provides an agricultural machine. According to an example the agricultural machine is a baler (with a fixed or variable chamber). According to an example, the baler is a roto-baler. According to another example, the agricultural machine may be a loader wagon or another machine for picking up and moving agricultural products.

[0020] The agricultural machine includes a pickup unit. The pick-up unit is configured for picking up agricultural products from the ground. The pickup unit is configured for feeding the agricultural products towards a device for receiving the agricultural products of the agricultural machine; for example, the receiving device can have the function of applying a treatment to the products (for example, compressing them for making a bale; in this case the agricultural machine is generally called a baler), or a function of accumulating the agricultural products (in this case the agricultural machine is generally called a self-loading wagon).

[0021] According to the example wherein the agricultural machine is a baler, the pickup unit is configured for feeding the agricultural products into a compression chamber of the baler. For this reason, the agricultural machine may include the function of forming bales, without the invention necessarily being limited to that configuration.

[0022] The pickup unit comprises a frame. The frame includes a beam. The beam extends in a transversal direction from a first end to a second end.

[0023] The pickup unit includes a first side wall. The first side wall is fixed to the beam. The first side wall is fixed to the beam at the first end of the beam.

[0024] The pickup unit includes a second side wall. The second side wall is fixed to the beam. The second side wall is fixed to the beam at the second end of the beam.

[0025] The first side wall and the second side wall delimit an inner space of the frame.

[0026] The pickup unit includes a pickup reel. The pickup reel is connected to a pickup transmission shaft. The pickup transmission shaft is mounted in a rotary fashion on the first and on the second side wall. The pickup reel is provided with a plurality of tines for picking up the agricultural products from the ground. The pickup unit includes a screw feeder. The screw feeder is connected to a screw feeder transmission shaft. The screw feeder transmission shaft is mounted in a rotary fashion on one of the first or second side walls.

[0027] The pickup unit includes a transmission shaft. The transmission shaft is mounted on the first or on the second side wall. The transmission shaft is located downstream of the pickup reel. The transmission shaft is configured for transmitting a drive torque to the pickup transmission shaft.

[0028] The pickup unit includes a rotor. The rotor is located downstream of the pickup reel. The rotor is configured for conveying the agricultural products to the receiving device of the agricultural machine (for example to the compression chamber, when the agricultural machine is a baler). The rotor is connected to a rotor drive shaft. The rotor drive shaft is coupled by a kinematic mechanism to the transmission shaft.

[0029] The pickup unit includes a transmission mechanism. The transmission mechanism includes a transmission chain. The transmission chain is positioned close to one of said first or second side walls. The transmission chain is configured for kinematically interconnecting the pickup transmission shaft, the screw feeder transmission shaft and the transmission shaft.

[0030] The transmission mechanism is positioned in the space inside the frame.

[0031] For this reason, according to an aspect of the invention, a single transmission chain is provided for kinematically interconnecting the pickup transmission shaft, the screw feeder transmission shaft and the transmission shaft, in the space inside the frame.

[0032] Providing a single chain makes it possible to obtain a pickup unit which is particularly simple and with lower costs, since components can be reduced (for example, chains, gears, chain tensioner, guards, if necessary, and oil lubrication). Moreover, this solution allows a reduction in adjustments and a facilitated maintenance to be obtained.

[0033] Moreover, providing the transmission mechanism in the space inside the frame allows a greater maximum pickup width to be obtained. More specifically, when the transmission mechanism is located outside the space of the side wall (outside the wall), it is necessary to provide protections, for example a protective hood or guard, and this reduces the space of the pickup unit and reduces the maximum pickup width, because the maximum total dimensions are limited by the need to place the baler in a container or in another means of transport or by requirements of limited dimensions for road travel; with a single internal chain it is possible to save assembly costs and the number of parts, thus increasing the reliability of the pickup unit and reducing the maintenance costs.

[0034] In this solution, the transmission mechanism is protected by the side walls. For this reason, according to this solution it is possible to obtain a pickup unit which is as large as possible, so it is possible to maximise the effectiveness of the picking up; at the same time, it is possible to obtain a pickup unit with a greater simplicity and with lower maintenance and costs, and which is particularly robust.

[0035] In an example, the transmission mechanism engages the pickup transmission shaft, the screw feeder transmission shaft, and the transmission shaft.

[0036] In an example, the pickup unit comprises a motor gear. The drive wheel is connected to the transmission shaft. The drive wheel is configured to receive a drive power. Moreover, the pickup unit may comprise a pickup transmission wheel (that is, a pickup gear). The pickup transmission wheel is connected to the pickup transmission shaft. The pickup transmission wheel is connected to the pickup transmission shaft at the first end or at the second end of the beam. the pickup unit includes a screw feeder transmission wheel (that is, a screw feeder gear). The screw feeder transmission wheel is connected to the screw feeder shaft.

[0037] The drive wheel, the pickup transmission wheel, and the screw feeder transmission wheel are positioned in the space inside the frame and are engaged by the transmission mechanism.

[0038] In an example, the pickup unit includes a further screw feeder. The further screw feeder is connected to a further screw feeder transmission shaft. The further screw feeder transmission shaft is mounted in a rotary fashion on the other of the first or second side walls.

[0039] The pickup unit may also comprise a further transmission mechanism. The further transmission mechanism is positioned in the space inside the frame. The further transmission mechanism is positioned close to the other of the first or second side walls. The further transmission mechanism engages the pickup transmission shaft and the further screw feeder shaft.

[0040] In an example, the pickup unit also includes a drive wheel (that is, a drive gear). The pickup unit may also include a chain tensioner wheel (that is, a chain tensioner gear). The drive wheel and the tension tensioner wheel are positioned in the space inside the frame. The drive wheel and the chain tensioner wheel are positioned between the screw feeder transmission shaft and the pickup transmission shaft. The drive wheel and the chain tensioner wheel-are positioned outside a space delimited by the transmission chain.

[0041] The screw feeder transmission shaft, the pickup shaft and the transmission shaft are surrounded by a side inside the transmission chain of the transmission mechanism. The drive wheel and the chain tensioner wheel are positioned in such a way that an outer side of the transmission chain engages them partly to determine an angle according to which the transmission chain engages the pickup transmission shaft, the screw feeder transmission shaft and the transmission shaft.

[0042] This solution allows a better gear angle to be achieved.

[0043] In an example, the pickup unit comprises a screw feeder transmission wheel (that is, drive gear). The screw feeder transmission wheel is connected to the screw feeder shaft. The screw feeder transmission wheel is engaged by the transmission mechanism. The screw feeder transmission wheel is welded to the screw feeder shaft. The screw feeder transmission wheel is in the space inside the frame.

[0044] In an example, the pickup unit comprises a clutch. The clutch is used to connect the transmission shaft to the pickup transmission shaft and to the screw feeder transmission shaft. The clutch is positioned in the space inside the frame. The clutch is configured to be engaged / disengaged with the transmission mechanism.

[0045] This solution provides a further protection and a particularly safe pickup unit.

[0046] In an example, the pickup unit comprises one or a pair of guards connected to the first or the second to the first and to the second side wall and positioned in the space inside the frame to form a box at the first or the second end / at the first and the second end of the beam.

[0047] In an example, the beam is provided with at least one reinforcement panel. The reinforcement panel extends vertically. The reinforcement panel is located between an upper part and a lower part of the beam.

[0048] This solution makes it possible to have a particularly robust pickup unit.

[0049] In an example, the first and the second side walls are provided with a plurality of slots.

[0050] This solution makes it possible to avoid any emptying of the products, for example on account of a protective guard.

[0051] In an example, the pickup unit includes a chain tensioner. The chain tensioner is connected to the first or to the second side wall. The chain tensioner is positioned in the space inside the frame. The chain tensioner is used to regulate the tension of the transmission chain. The chain tensioner comprises an arm. The arm of the chain tensioner is connected to the first or the second side wall. The chain tensioner includes a wheel. The wheel of the chain tensioner is connected to the arm. The wheel of the chain tensioner is configured for entering into contact with the transmission chain. The chain tensioner includes and elastic element to provide the force necessary to maintain the tension of the chain. The elastic element may comprise, for example, a spring or an elastomer.

[0052] In an example, the elastic element is integrated in the arm.

[0053] In an example, the agricultural machine is a baler. In this example, the receiving device includes a compression chamber of the baler. Preferably, in this example, the receiving device is the compression chamber of the baler.

[0054] In another example, the agricultural machine is a self-propelled wagon. In this example, the receiving device includes a loading box of the selfloading wagon. Preferably, in this example, the receiving device is the loading box of the self-loading wagon.

[0055] According to another aspect of this invention, a method is provided for feeding agricultural products from the ground to an agricultural machine. The method comprises a step of preparing a pickup unit for an agricultural machine.

[0056] The method comprises a step of providing the pickup unit with a frame. The frame has a beam extending in a transversal direction from a first end to a second end. The frame includes a first side wall and a second side wall, fixed to the beam, respectively at the first end and at the second end. The side walls delimit an inner space of the frame.

[0057] The method includes a step of assembling in a rotary fashion a pickup transmission shaft on the first and on the second side wall.

[0058] The method includes a step of connecting a pickup reel to the pickup transmission shaft.

[0059] The method includes a step of providing the pickup reel with a plurality of tines for picking up the agricultural products from the ground.

[0060] The method includes a step of rotatably mounting a screw feeder shaft on the first or on the second side wall.

[0061] The method comprises a step of connecting a screw feeder to the screw feeder shaft. The method comprises a step of assembling in a rotary fashion a transmission shaft on the first or on the second side wall and downstream of the pickup reel.

[0062] The method comprises a step of transmitting a drive torque to the pickup transmission shaft using the transmission shaft.

[0063] The method comprises a step of connecting a rotor located downstream of the pickup roller and configured for conveying the agricultural products to the compression chamber, to the rotor drive shaft (8); the method comprises a step of kinematically coupling the rotor drive shaft to the transmission shaft.

[0064] The method comprises a step of positioning a transmission mechanism close to one of the first or second side walls and in the space inside the frame.

[0065] The method comprises a step of, by means of the transmission mechanism, kinematically interconnecting the pickup transmission shaft, the screw feeder transmission shaft and the transmission shaft.

[0066] According to one aspect of this invention, there is an agricultural machine, according to one or more aspects of this invention, or another prior art agricultural machine, provided with a support. The support houses reels of mesh or film which are used for binding the bales after they are formed in the compression chamber. The agricultural machine can be a baler.

[0067] The baler comprises a frame which defines an internal space. This solution may be combined with balers having a chamber with a fixed or variable diameter, having a binding device.

[0068] In particular, the support is mounted on a lateral part of the frame of the baler and extends vertically to limit overall dimensions and facilitate accessibility to the reels. The support may have one or more housing for said reels. For example, vertical housings may be provided, for example bars which extend vertically to house a respective reel, in such a way that the reels are positioned vertically next to and parallel to each other.

[0069] According to another aspect of this invention there is an agricultural machine, according to one or more aspects of this invention, or another prior art agricultural machine, having one or a plurality of work lights. The agricultural machine can be a baler. The work lights are positioned on the inner part of the frame of the baler, for example inside the lateral casings of the frame of the baler, for inspection during the night. In an example, the work light has a lighting panel which includes a matrix of lighting elements (for example LEDs), distributed uniformly on a surface of the lighting panel. In particular, the work lights are connected to the respective sensors which measure the inclination of the part of the frame on which the work lights are positioned. More specifically, the sensors measure the angle of the part of the baler on which the work light is positioned. The sensors send a signal representing the angle of said part to a control unit of the machine. The control unit of the baler compares this signal with a reference value, for example the angle relative to the horizontal axis. The control unit detects a closed or open position of said part on the basis of the comparison and sends a signal for switching on or off the work lights on the basis of the measurement of the position of the part.

[0070] Preferably, the sensors are angular sensors. In particular, in response to a measurement of the inclination of the lateral casings which determines the opening or closing of the casings, the control unit sends a switching on signal to switch on the illuminators, and when the position of the casings is measured as closed, a switching off signal is sent to switch off the illuminators.

[0071] This aspect allows the lights to be automatically switched ON or OFF when the casings are opened or closed.

[0072] According to a further aspect of the invention, a pickup unit is provided. The pickup unit is according to one or more aspects of the invention. For this reason, according to a further aspect, this description also relates to the pickup unit considered itself as an independent component, suitable for being mounted on various agricultural machines, for example on a baler or a self-loading wagon (loader wagon). The pickup unit is configured for picking up agricultural products from the ground and conveying them towards a receiving device of an agricultural machine. The receiving device may have the function of applying a treatment to the products themselves (for example, compressing them to make a bale, in this case the agricultural machine is generally known as a baler), or a function for accumulating the agricultural products (in this case the agricultural machine is generally known as a self-loading wagon).

[0073] For this reason, the receiving device may comprise, for example, a compression chamber of a baler, a loading box of a self-loading wagon, or other equivalent unit.

[0074] The pickup unit comprises a frame. The frame includes a beam. The beam extends in a transversal direction from a first end to a second end.

[0075] The pickup unit includes a first side wall. The first side wall is fixed to the beam. The first side wall is fixed to the beam at the first end of the beam.

[0076] The pickup unit includes a second side wall. The second side wall is fixed to the beam. The second side wall is fixed to the beam at the second end of the beam.

[0077] The first side wall and the second side wall delimit an inner space of the frame.

[0078] The pickup unit includes a pickup reel. The pickup reel is connected to a pickup transmission shaft. The pickup transmission shaft is mounted in a rotary fashion on the first and on the second side wall. The pickup reel is provided with a plurality of tines for picking up the agricultural products from the ground. The pickup unit includes a screw feeder. The screw feeder is connected to a screw feeder transmission shaft. The screw feeder transmission shaft is mounted in a rotary fashion on one of the first or second side walls.

[0079] The pickup unit includes a transmission shaft. The transmission shaft is mounted on the first or on the second side wall. The transmission shaft is located downstream of the pickup reel. The transmission shaft is configured for transmitting a drive torque to the pickup transmission shaft. The pickup unit includes a rotor. The rotor is located downstream of the pickup reel. The rotor is configured for conveying the agricultural products to the receiving device of the agricultural machine. The rotor is connected to a rotor drive shaft. The rotor drive shaft is coupled by a kinematic mechanism to the transmission shaft.

[0080] The pickup unit includes a transmission mechanism. The transmission mechanism includes a transmission chain. The transmission chain is positioned close to one of said first or second side walls. The transmission chain is configured for kinematically interconnecting the pickup transmission shaft, the screw feeder transmission shaft and the transmission shaft.

[0081] The transmission mechanism is positioned in the space inside the frame. It should be noted that the features of the pickup unit, as defined for use in combination with an agricultural machine, can also be applied to the autonomous pickup unit, protecting the latter as an independent entity.

[0082] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0083] These and other features of the invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of a preferred, non-limiting example embodiment of it, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0084] - Figures 1A and 1 B illustrate a pickup unit according to one or more aspects of the description;

[0085] - Figure 2 illustrates the frame of the pickup unit;

[0086] - Figure 3 illustrates a transmission mechanism of the pickup unit;

[0087] - Figure 4 illustrates the screw feeders;

[0088] - Figure 5 is a further view of the pickup unit;

[0089] - Figure 6 illustrates a further transmission mechanism of the pickup unit;

[0090] - Figure 7 illustrates the system for transmission of the drive torque to the pickup shaft and to the screw feeder shaft;

[0091] - Figure 8 illustrates the rotor.

[0092] - Figure 9 illustrates more details of the pickup unit;

[0093] - Figure 10 illustrates an agricultural machine according to one or more aspects of the invention;

[0094] - Figure 11 illustrates an agricultural machine according to one or more aspects of the invention, according to another embodiment.

[0095] Detailed description of preferred embodiments of the invention

[0096] With reference to the accompanying drawings, the numeral 1 denotes a pickup unit for an agricultural machine. The agricultural machine includes the pickup unit 1 . The agricultural machine can be a baler. In that case, the baler includes common features of the prior art balers, for example, a compression chamber. The baler may have a compression chamber with a fixed or variable volume.

[0097] The pickup unit 1 includes a frame 2. The frame 2 includes a beam 201 which extends in a transversal direction from a first end to a second end.

[0098] The frame also includes a first side wall 202A and a second side wall 202B fixed to the beam 201 respectively at the first end and at the second end. The first side wall and the second side wall delimit an inner space IS of the frame 2.

[0099] The frame includes at least one reinforcement panel 18 which extends vertically and between an upper part and a lower part of the beam. There may be a plurality of reinforcement bars along the beam, spaced apart from each other along the transversal direction.

[0100] In an example, the first and the second side walls are provided with one or a plurality of slots 17. It may be that only one of the side walls has the slot 17.

[0101] The pickup unit also includes a pickup reel 3 connected to a pickup transmission shaft 4. The pickup transmission shaft 4 is mounted in a rotary fashion on the first and on the second side wall 202A, 202B. The pickup reel 3 is provided with a plurality of tines T for picking up the agricultural products from the ground.

[0102] The pickup unit may also include a deflector unit. In an example, the deflector unit is positioned above the pickup reel. More specifically, the deflector unit is configured to guarantee the correct feeding of the hay into the press.

[0103] The deflector unit comprises a frame. The deflector unit may also include a pair of deflector arms. In an example, the arms of the deflector are fixed rotatably to the frame.

[0104] Moreover, the deflector unit comprises a deflector pipe. In an example, the deflector pipe is fixed between the deflector arms. The deflector pipe extends along a longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end. The tines are fixed to the deflector pipe.

[0105] The pickup unit also comprises a pair of pickup transmission wheels 11 A, 11 B connected to the pickup transmission shaft 4 at the first end and at the second end of the beam 201 , respectively. The pickup unit includes a pair of screw feeders, 5A, 5B, each connected to a respective screw feeder transmission shaft 6A, 6B. The screw transmission shafts are rotatably mounted on the first and on the second side walls 202A, 202B, respectively. The screw feeders are positioned downstream of the pickup reel 3, in the direction of feeding the agricultural products picked up to the compression chamber. The pickup unit 1 also includes a transmission shaft 7, located downstream of the pickup reel and the screw feeders, and mounted on the first or on the second side wall.

[0106] The pickup unit also includes a rotor R. The rotor R is positioned downstream of the pickup reel 3, screw feeders 5A, 5B, and the transmission shaft 7.

[0107] The rotor R conveys the agricultural products to the compression chamber, and is connected to a rotor drive shaft 8. The rotor drive shaft 8 is coupled by a kinematic mechanism to the transmission shaft.

[0108] More specifically, the rotor drive shaft 8 is coupled to the transmission shaft 7 with drive action, for example by means of module gears M1 and M2. The rotor drive shaft 8 receives drive force from a drive source, for example from a motor or kinematic transmission gear and chain, and rotates about an axis of rotation, and transmits a drive torque to the transmission shaft 7 by means of a collaboration of the gears M1 and M2. It should be noted that in place of the rotor other devices may be used for conveying the products to the compression chamber, for example a fork or “stuffer” feeder.

[0109] The pickup unit also includes a drive wheel 10 (that is, motor gear), connected to the transmission shaft 7 and configured to receive a drive power.

[0110] The pickup unit includes a pair of screw feeder housings, fixed to the first and to the second side wall, which protrude from the side walls towards the inner space of the frame IS and house the screw feeders. Moreover, the pickup unit has a pair of housings of the rotor shaft 20. These housings include a pair of plates fixed to the screw feeder housings 19, transversely to the direction along which the screw feeder housings 19 protrude, which have an opening to receive the rotor drive shaft 8.

[0111] The rotor R includes features of the rotors known in the sector.

[0112] The pickup unit includes a first transmission mechanism, including a transmission chain 9, and a second transmission mechanism, including a second transmission chain 13, positioned close to the first and the second side wall, respectively. The first transmission chain 9 interconnects kinematically the pickup transmission shaft 4, a shaft of the screw feeder transmission shafts 6A, 6B and the transmission shaft 7, to the first end of the beam. The second transmission chain 13 interconnects kinematically the pickup transmission shaft 4 and the further screw feeder transmission shaft, to the second end of the beam. The first and second transmission mechanisms, and therefore the first and second transmission chains, are positioned in the inner space IS of the frame. More specifically, the first transmission chain 9 engages the pickup transmission shaft 4, a screw feeder transmission shaft 6A, 6B and the transmission shaft 7, whilst, on the opposite side, the second transmission chain 13 engages, the other screw feeder shaft and the pickup transmission shaft 4. More specifically, the first transmission chain engages the drive wheel 10, one of the pickup transmission wheels 11 A and one of the screw feeder transmission wheels 12A, 12B. The second transmission chain engages the other screw feeder transmission wheel and the other pickup transmission wheel.

[0113] The pickup unit also includes a drive wheel 14A (that is, drive gear) and a chain tensioner wheel 14B (that is, chain tensioner gear) positioned in the inner space (IS) of the frame between the screw feeder shaft 6A, 6B and the transmission shaft of the rotor and outside a space delimited by the first transmission chain 9. One of the screw feeder shafts, one of the pickup shafts and the transmission shaft are surrounded by an inner side of the first transmission chain of the first transmission mechanism, and the drive wheel and the chain tensioner wheel are positioned in such a way that an outer side of the first transmission chain engages them partly to determine an angle according to which the transmission chain engages a shaft of the pickup transmission shafts 4, a shaft of the screw feeder transmission shafts 6A, 6B and the transmission shaft 7.

[0114] There may be a further drive wheel and a further chain tensioning wheel, positioned on the opposite side of the beam relative to the drive wheel 14A and to the chain tensioning wheel, positioned in the space inside the frame between the other screw feeder shaft and the other pickup transmission shaft and outside a space delimited by the second transmission chain 13, wherein the other screw feeder shaft, the other pickup shaft are surrounded by an inner side of the second transmission chain of the second transmission mechanism, and the further drive wheel and the further chain tensioning wheel are positioned in such a way that an outer side of the second transmission chain engages them partly to determine an angle according to which the second transmission chain engages the other pickup transmission shaft 4, and the other screw feeder transmission shaft.

[0115] The screw feeder transmission wheels are engaged by the first and second transmission chains and are welded to the screw feeder transmission shafts.

[0116] The pickup unit includes a clutch 15 which connects the transmission shaft 7 to the pickup transmission shaft 4 and to the screw feeder transmission shaft 6A, 6B. The clutch is positioned in the space inside the frame and configured to be engaged / disengaged with the first transmission mechanism 9.

[0117] The pickup unit also includes a pair of guards CA connected to the first and second side walls and positioned in the space inside the frame to form a box at the first and the second end of the beam and to favour the flow of product from the pickup unit to the rotor.

[0118] The pickup unit includes a chain tensioner 16 connected to the first or to the second side wall, and positioned in the space inside the frame for adjusting the tension of the first or second transmission chain. The chain tensioner comprises an arm connected to the first or to the second side wall, a wheel connected to the arm and configured for entering into contact with the transmission chain, and an elastic element for providing the force necessary to maintain the tension of the chain. The elastic element is preferably integrated in the arm. There may be two chain tensioners for each of the first and second transmission chains.

[0119] For this reason, during the operation of the pickup unit, the rotor drive shaft 8 receives drive power and rotates about an axis of rotation, and by means of the gears M1 and M2 a drive torque is transmitted to the transmission shaft 7. As explained above, the transmission chain engages the pickup transmission shaft 4, the transmission shaft 7 and the screw feeder transmission shaft 5, so the drive torque is transmitted from the rotor drive shaft 8 to the pickup transmission shaft 4 and to the screw feeder transmission shaft 5, by means of the transmission shaft 7.

[0120] The pickup reel 3 is pivoted mechanically on the rotor pin.

[0121] The fulcrum of rotation of the pickup reel is positioned on the rotor drive shaft 8.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An agricultural machine (B) provided with a pickup unit (1 ) configured for picking up agricultural products from the ground and feeding them to a receiving device of the agricultural machine, the pickup unit comprising:- a frame (2), having a beam (201 ) extending in a transversal direction from a first end to a second end, a first side wall (202A) and a second side wall (202B) fixed to the beam (201 ), respectively, to the first end and to the second end, and which delimit an inner space (IS) of the frame (2);- a pickup reel (3) connected to a pickup transmission shaft (4), the pickup transmission shaft being mounted in a rotary fashion on the first and on the second side wall, the pickup reel being provided with a plurality of tines (T) for picking up the agricultural products from the ground;- a screw feeder (5A, 5B) connected to a screw feeder shaft (6A, 6B), the screw feeder shaft being mounted in a rotary fashion on one of the first or the second side walls;- a transmission shaft (7), mounted on the first or on the second side wall, and located downstream of the pickup reel, configured for transmitting a drive torque to the pickup transmission shaft (4);- a rotor (R) located downstream of the pickup reel and configured for conveying the agricultural products to the receiving device, the rotor being connected to a rotor drive shaft (8), wherein the rotor drive shaft is coupled in a kinematic fashion to the transmission shaft (7);- a transmission mechanism, including a transmission chain (9) positioned close to one of said first or second side walls and configured for kinematically interconnecting the pickup transmission shaft (4), the screw feeder transmission shaft (6A, 6B) and the transmission shaft (7), wherein the transmission mechanism (9) is positioned in the inner space (IS) of the frame.

2. The agricultural machine (B) according to claim 1 , wherein thetransmission mechanism (9) engages the pickup transmission shaft (4), the screw feeder transmission shaft (6A, 6B) and the transmission shaft (7).

3. The agricultural machine (B) according to claim 2, wherein the pickup unit comprises:- a drive wheel (10), connected to the transmission shaft (7) and configured to receive a drive power;- a pickup transmission wheel (11 A), connected to the pickup transmission shaft (4) at the first end or at the second end of the beam (201 );- a screw feeder transmission wheel (12A, 12B) connected to the screw feeder shaft (6A, 6B), wherein the drive wheel (10), the pickup transmission wheel (11 A) and the screw feeder transmission wheel (12A, 12B) are positioned in the inner space (IS) of the frame and are engaged by the transmission mechanism (9).

4. The agricultural machine (B) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the pickup unit includes:- a further screw feeder (5A, 5B), connected to a further screw feeder shaft (6A, 6B), the further screw feeder shaft being mounted in a rotary fashion on the other of the first or second side walls;- a further transmission mechanism (13), positioned in the inner space (IS) of the frame and close to the other of the first or second side walls, wherein the further transmission mechanism (13) engages the pickup transmission shaft (4) and the further screw feeder shaft (6A, 6B).

5. The agricultural machine (B) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the pickup unit also includes a drive wheel (14A) and a chain tensioner wheel (14B) positioned in the inner space (IS) of the frame between the screw feeder shaft (6A, 6B) and the rotor transmission shaft and outside a space delimited by the transmission chain (9), wherein the screw feeder shaft, the pickup shaft and the transmission shaft are surrounded by a side inside the transmission chain of the transmissionmechanism, the drive wheel and the chain tensioner wheel being positioned in such a way that an outer side of the transmission chain engages them partly to determine an angle according to which the transmission chain engages the pickup transmission shaft (4), the screw feeder transmission shaft (6A, 6B) and the transmission shaft (7).

6. The agricultural machine (B) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the pickup unit comprises a screw feeder transmission wheel (12A, 12B) connected to the screw feeder shaft (6A, 6B), the screw feeder transmission wheel being engaged by the transmission mechanism (9), wherein the screw feeder transmission wheel is welded to the screw feeder shaft.

7. The agricultural machine (B) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the pickup unit comprises a clutch (15) for connecting the transmission shaft f7)-to the pickup transmission shaft and to the screw feeder transmission shaft, the clutch being positioned in the space inside the frame and configured to be engaged / disengaged with the transmission mechanism (9).

8. The agricultural machine (B) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the pickup unit also comprises a pair of guards (CA) connected to the first and the second side wall and positioned in the space inside the frame to form a box at the first and the second end of the beam.

9. The agricultural machine (B) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the beam is provided with at least one reinforcement panel (18), extending vertically and between an upper part and a lower part of the beam.

10. The agricultural machine (B) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first and second side walls are provided with a plurality of slots (17).

11. The agricultural machine (B) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the pickup unit includes a chain tensioner (16), connected to the first or second side wall, and positioned in the space inside theframe (IS), for adjusting the tension of the transmission chain (9), the chain tensioner comprising an arm connected to the first or the second side wall, a wheel connected to the arm and configured for entering into contact with the transmission chain (9), an elastic element for providing the force necessary to maintain the tension of the chain.

12. The agricultural machine (B) according to claim 11 , wherein the elastic element is integrated in the arm.

13. The agricultural machine (B) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the agricultural machine is a baler and wherein the receiving device is a compression chamber (C) of the baler.

14. The agricultural machine (B) according to any of the claims from 1 to 12, wherein the agricultural machine is a self-loading wagon and wherein the receiving device is a loading box of the self-loading wagon.

15. A method for feeding agricultural products from the ground to an agricultural machine (B), comprising the following steps:- preparing a pickup unit (1 ) for an agricultural machine (B);- providing the pickup unit with a frame (2) having a beam (201 ) extending in a transversal direction from a first end to a second end, a first side wall (202A) and a second side wall (202B) fixed to the beam (201 ), respectively, to the first end and to the second end, and which delimit an inner space (IS) of the frame (2);- rotatably mounting a pickup transmission shaft (4) on the first and on the second side wall;- connecting a pickup reel (3) to the pickup transmission shaft (4);- providing the pickup reel (3) with a plurality of tines (T) for picking up the agricultural products from the ground;- rotatably mounting a screw feeder shaft (5A, 5B) on the first or on the second side wall;- connecting a screw feeder (5A, 5B) to the screw feeder shaft (6A, 6B);- rotatably mounting a transmission shaft (7) on the first or on the secondside wall and downstream of the pickup reel;- transmitting a drive torque to the pickup transmission shaft by means of the transmission shaft (7);- connecting a rotor (R) located downstream of the pickup roller and configured for conveying the agricultural products to a receiving device of the agricultural machine, to the rotor drive shaft (8);- kinematic coupling of the rotor drive shaft to the transmission shaft (7);- positioning a transmission mechanism (9) close to one of the first or second side walls and in the inner space (IS) of the frame; - the pickup transmission shaft (4), the screw feeder transmission shaft (6A, 6B) and the transmission shaft (7) are interconnected kinematically by means of the transmission mechanism (9).

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