Float Arm Lockout for Cutting Platform Contour Following
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Solution Overview
Problem
Draper platforms in agricultural harvesting machines have a rigid framework that fails to flex and follow ground contours, leading to missed crop material and potential damage from uneven terrain, especially when raising the cutting platform during operation.
Innovation Solution
A cutting platform with movable float arms and float cylinders, coupled with a hydraulic lockout system, allows the platform to adjust to ground contours and maintain crop material during elevation, using an accumulator to prevent pressure buildup and ensure stable operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the cutting platform uses a rigid framework, then structural strength and stability are improved, but the platform cannot flex to follow ground contours, resulting in missed crop material and potential damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing the rigid framework with movable float arms that can dynamically adjust their position. The float arms are coupled to the rigid framework but are free to pivot, allowing the platform to adapt to ground contours while maintaining structural support. This creates a hybrid system where the rigid framework provides strength and the movable float arms provide adaptability.
2Ease of operation
If the cutting platform is raised during harvesting operation, then turning and maneuvering are enabled, but cut crop material may fall off the platform
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by using gravity and the float arm mechanism to counteract the tendency of crop material to fall off during platform raising. The float arms maintain contact with the ground, creating a natural restraint that prevents crop material from sliding off the platform edges during elevation maneuvers.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables the cutting platform to effectively follow ground contours, reducing crop material loss and minimizing soil damage, while maintaining efficient crop collection and transport during height adjustments.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of float cylinders. Each float cylinder is coupled between the frame and a respective float arm
Implementation Method 2
an accumulator carried by the frame... A shut-off valve is fluidly connected between the accumulator and at least one float cylinder
Data Source
AI summary
An agricultural harvesting machine includes a feeder housing and a cutting platform attached to the feeder housing. The cutting platform includes a frame, an accumulator carried by the frame, a plurality of float arms movably coupled with the frame, and a plurality of float cylinders. Each float cylinder is coupled between the frame and a respective float arm. A shut-off valve is fluidly connected between the accumulator and at least one float cylinder.