Combine Header Integrated Vertical Transport Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Transporting modern agricultural combine headers is arduous due to their increased size, weight, and the need for either a separate transport trailer or a cumbersome detachable wheel assembly, which can cause damage and is time-consuming to operate.
Innovation Solution
An integrated transport arrangement for the combine header, featuring a main header frame with pivot points and actuators that allow the header to be rotated between a working position and a transport position, enabling vertical orientation without a separate trailer, using permanently or removably attached transport wheels that engage the ground surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a separate transport trailer is used to support the header, then the header can be transported, but the operator must purchase and maintain an additional piece of equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The transport assembly is merged with the header frame to create an integrated unit. The header frame includes mounting structures and the transport assembly includes wheels and support elements that are permanently or removably attached to the header, eliminating the need for a separate trailer while maintaining transport capability
Solution Approach 2:
The header is designed to perform multiple functions: harvesting during operation and self-transport when needed. The integrated transport assembly enables the header to serve as both a harvesting tool and a transportable unit, reducing the need for additional specialized equipment
2Ease of operation
If pivoting wheels are permanently attached to the header frame, then the header can be transported without detachment, but the wheels may contact the ground during transition causing damage
Solution Approach 1:
The transport assembly uses movable and adjustable wheel positions rather than fixed permanent attachment. The wheels can be raised, lowered, and repositioned along the header frame to avoid ground contact during transitions, while still providing stable support during transport operations
3Adaptability or versatility
If removable wheels are used for the transport assembly, then the wheels can be detached for harvesting, but the operator must manually detach and reattach the wheels which is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The transport wheels are pre-positioned and pre-configured on the header frame in ready-to-deploy positions. Quick-release mechanisms or gravity-assisted positioning systems allow the wheels to be rapidly engaged or disengaged without complex manual assembly, reducing the time required for configuration changes
4Length of moving object
If the header is transported lengthwise to conform to narrow roadways, then the header can be transported on existing roads, but the transport process becomes arduous due to increased size and weight
Solution Approach 1:
The header transport system utilizes vertical dimension by elevating the header to an upright position on the header frame, rather than only horizontal orientation. This allows the header to be transported in a vertical configuration that reduces ground contact area and facilitates movement on existing roadways while maintaining stability through the integrated wheel assembly
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated transport system for an agricultural harvesting header that pivotable rotates the agricultural harvesting header from a working position to a transport position allowing the agricultural harvesting header to be transported in a substantially vertical position. The agricultural harvesting header includes at least one actuator to pivotable move the agricultural harvesting header from the working position to the transport position and at least one transport wheel. The agricultural harvesting header may be further provided with gauge wheels being repositionable for use as a the at least one transport wheel.