Harvester Cutter Bar Automatic Pivot Axis Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing harvesting machines require cumbersome two-sided operation to pivot the cutter bar out of the conveying channel for maintenance, which complicates the process and increases operator inconvenience.
Innovation Solution
Automatically operable coupling means are integrated to release the first pivot axis when the cutter bar reaches an intermediate position, allowing for simplified one-sided operation by controlling the detachment of joint parts, enabling smooth transition to the second pivoting phase without delay.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the cutter bar is pivoted about the first pivot axis to move knives out of the conveying channel, then the knives become accessible for maintenance, but the first pivot axis must be manually released on both sides of the machine which complicates the operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the release operations on both sides of the machine into a single unified operation. The coupling means integrates the left and right pivot axis releases so that actuating the coupling means from one side simultaneously releases both pivot axes, eliminating the need for separate two-sided operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling means automatically performs the release function for both pivot axes when actuated. The system uses the pivoting motion itself to trigger the release mechanism, so the operator only needs to initiate the pivoting action rather than manually releasing each pivot axis separately.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the hinge pin of the first pivot axis is pulled out to allow second pivoting movement, then the cutter bar can be pivoted outwards to the side, but the operation becomes inconvenient especially for new operators who must follow special sequences
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling means is designed to automatically execute the release sequence based on the pivoting motion itself. When the cutter bar is pivoted to the intermediate position, the coupling means automatically releases both pivot axes without requiring the operator to know or follow a specific sequence of operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the position feedback of the cutter bar during pivoting to control the release mechanism. The coupling means detects when the cutter bar reaches the intermediate position and automatically triggers the release of both pivot axes, eliminating the need for operators to manually track and follow complex release sequences.
3Ease of operation
If complicated transmission mechanisms are used to allow one-sided operation for releasing both pivot axes, then two-sided operation is avoided, but the mechanisms become sluggish and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex transmission mechanism and replaces it with a direct coupling means that acts on both pivot axes simultaneously. Instead of using linkages or mechanical transmissions to transfer the release action from one side to both sides, the coupling means provides a direct release path for both pivot axes.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling means serves as an intermediary device that receives a single actuation input and distributes the release action to both pivot axes. This intermediary mechanism simplifies the control architecture by providing a direct interface between the operator's single-sided operation and the dual pivot axis release requirement.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a harvesting machine, in particular a forage wagon and/or baler, with a cutting unit comprising knives arranged on a cutter bar which, in their cutting position, project into a conveying channel for the harvested crop. The knives can be moved out of the conveying channel into an intermediate position by pivoting the cutter bar about a first pivot axis extending horizontally transversely to the longitudinal axis of the conveying channel. Furthermore, the knives can be moved outwards to the side of a chassis of the harvesting machine into a lateral position by pivoting the cutter bar about a second pivot axis extending transversely to the first pivot axis. The first pivot axis comprises detachable joint components that can be separated for pivoting about the second pivot axis. According to the invention, coupling means are provided for automatically uncoupling the detachable joint components of the first pivot axis when the intermediate position is reached.