Automatic Header Coupling via Cam and Hook Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing combine harvesters require manual and time-consuming operations for coupling the header to the feeder, and previous automation attempts using hydraulic actuators for drive shaft coupling do not allow lateral floatation of the header.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of rotatable cams and hooks on the feeder that lift and secure the header, allowing for automatic coupling by maintaining distance, reducing it, and gripping a pin or bar, with minimal actuators required.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual operations are used for header coupling, then the coupling can be securely established, but the operation becomes time-consuming and impractical
Solution Approach 1:
The header coupling system performs the coupling operation automatically without requiring manual intervention. The hydraulic actuator drives the cam mechanism which self-regulates the header lifting, distance maintenance, and hook engagement sequence, allowing the system to service itself during the coupling process
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism is pre-configured with specific geometric profiles that automatically perform the sequence of operations: first maintaining distance during initial approach, then gradually reducing distance as the header nears the feeder, and finally enabling hook engagement. This preliminary design of the cam profile ensures the coupling sequence occurs automatically in the correct order
2Extent of automation
If hydraulic actuators are used for automatic drive shaft coupling, then automation is achieved, but lateral floatation of the header is not allowed
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is divided into independent functional components: the cam mechanism for distance control and the hook mechanism for securing. This segmentation allows the cam to control the lateral approach while the hook provides the securing function, enabling both automation and lateral floatation capability to coexist without interference
3Extent of automation
If multiple hydraulic actuators are used for automatic coupling, then automation is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single hydraulic actuator is designed to perform multiple functions through the cam mechanism: it controls the header lifting motion, maintains the optimal distance during approach, enables gradual distance reduction, and facilitates hook engagement. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple separate actuators, reducing system complexity while maintaining full automation
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism and hook mechanism are combined into a single integrated assembly that is driven by one hydraulic actuator. The cam profile geometry inherently coordinates the timing and sequence of distance maintenance and reduction phases, merging what would traditionally require multiple actuators into a single unified mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
Automatic coupling of a header to a feeder in an agricultural machine. The agricultural machine comprises a feeder (1) and a detachable header (2), the feeder comprising at least one or more rotatable cams (15) and hooks (16), rotatable around a common axis (14), the cams being arranged to gradually lower the distance between the feeder and the header, by rotating the cams (15) away from the header, the hooks being arranged to grip a bar or pin (18) located on the header as the cams are being rotated away from the header, thereby securing the header to the feeder.