BE1024665B1 - Cutting bar support for a harvesting machine - Google Patents

Abstract

A header support (1) for a harvesting machine is disclosed to support a header of a harvesting machine (3) for agricultural applications that has a "forward" mode and a "reverse" mode, with "forward" a first coupling element (10) is in a "forward" position relative to a second coupling element (11), and wherein in the "reverse" mode, the first coupling element (10) is in a "reverse" position relative to the second coupling element (11) wherein the first coupling element (10) is movable from the "forward" position to the "reverse" position and / or vice versa by pivoting the first coupling element (10) relative to the second coupling element ( 11) around the first pivot axis (13). A harvesting machine for agricultural applications (3) containing the header support (1) and a method of operating the harvesting machine (3) are also disclosed.

Description

(30) Priority data:

(73) Holder (s):

CNH INDUSTRIAL BELGIUM NV

8210, ZEDELGEM

Belgium (72) Inventor (s):

YOUNGMANS Dré W.J.

4791 AG KLUNDERT The Netherlands

MISSOTS Bart M.A.

3020 HERENT Belgium

TALLIR Frederik

8600 ESEN (THICKMUIDE)

Belgium

VAN OVERSELDED Pieter 8200 SINT-ANDRIES Belgium

VANDENDRIESSCHE Rik 8480 EERNEGEM Belgium

VANDERGUCHT Yvan C.C. 8647 LO-RENINGE Belgium (54) Header support for a harvester (57) It is revealed a header support (1) for a harvester to support a header of a harvester (3) for agricultural applications, which has forward mode and reverse mode wherein in the forward drive mode a first clutch element (10) is in a forward driving position relative to a second clutch element (11), and in the reverse mode the first clutch element (10) is in a reverse position relative to the second coupling element (11) wherein the first coupling element (10) is movable from the forward driving position to the reverse driving position and / or vice versa by hinging the first coupling element (10) relative to the second coupling element (11 ) around the first pivot shaft (13). An agricultural harvester (3) containing the header support (1) and a method of operating the harvester (3) are also disclosed.

Fig. 2b

BELGIAN INVENTION PATENT

FPS Economy, K.M.O., Self-employed & Energy

Publication number: 1024665 Filing number: BE2016 / 5778

Intellectual Property Office

International classification: A01D 41/14 A01D 75/00 Date of issue: 22/05/2018

The Minister of Economy,

Having regard to the Paris Convention of 20 March 1883 for the Protection of Industrial Property;

Having regard to the Law of March 28, 1984 on inventive patents, Article 22, for patent applications filed before September 22, 2014;

Having regard to Title 1 Invention Patents of Book XI of the Economic Law Code, Article XI.24, for patent applications filed from September 22, 2014;

Having regard to the Royal Decree of 2 December 1986 on the filing, granting and maintenance of inventive patents, Article 28;

Having regard to the application for an invention patent received by the Intellectual Property Office on 18/10/2016.

Whereas for patent applications that fall within the scope of Title 1, Book XI, of the Code of Economic Law (hereinafter WER), in accordance with Article XI.19, § 4, second paragraph, of the WER, the granted patent will be limited. to the patent claims for which the novelty search report was prepared, when the patent application is the subject of a novelty search report indicating a lack of unity of invention as referred to in paragraph 1, and when the applicant does not limit his filing and does not file a divisional application in accordance with the search report.

Decision:

Article 1

CNH INDUSTRIAL BELGIUM NV, Leon Claeysstraat 3A, 8210 ZEDELGEM Belgium;

represented by

BEETZ Joeri, Leon Claeysstraat 3A, 8210, ZEDELGEM;

a Belgian invention patent with a term of 20 years, subject to payment of the annual fees as referred to in Article XI.48, § 1 of the Code of Economic Law, for: Header support for a harvester.

INVENTOR (S):

JONGMANS Dré W.J., Zevenbergseweg 13, 4791, AG KLUNDERT;

MISSOTTEN Bart M.A., Heidestraat 14, 3020, HERENT;

TALLIR Frederik, Schoorlingstraat 1, 8600, ESEN (DIKSMUIDE);

VAN OVERSCHELDE Pieter, Kasteelhoevestraat 1, 8200, SINT-ANDRIES;

VANDENDRIESSCHE Rik, Kapelleweg 8, 8480, EERNEGEM;

VANDERGUCHT Yvan C.C., Lo Street 4, 8647, LO-RENINGE;

PRIORITY:

BREAKDOWN:

Split from basic application: Filing date of the basic application:

Article 2. - This patent is granted without prior investigation into the patentability of the invention, without warranty of the Merit of the invention, nor of the accuracy of its description and at the risk of the applicant (s).

Brussels, 22/05/2018,

With special authorization:

. 1.

Header support for a harvester

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a header support, a harvesting machine for agricultural applications (hereinafter referred to simply as a harvester) comprising a header support, and a method of operating a harvester comprising a header support.

Modern harvesters, such as combine harvesters and forage harvesters, are heavy machinery, which in many cases have to drive from one field to another via public roads. In many countries there are regulations that prescribe a maximum load per axle for vehicles driving on public roads. Current developments in the field of harvesters are leading to an increase in the load per axle of these harvesters. In particular, when a header is attached to the harvester during road transport, the load on the front axle can reach values that are close to or even exceed the maximum allowable load per axle for driving on public roads.

According to the prior art it is known to arrange one or more support wheels on the front parts of the harvester. These support wheels are generally connected to the header or to the harvester feed system.

Patent EP2868185 discloses an auxiliary shaft for a harvester during road transport. This agile device is quite complex and includes an extensive control system to ensure a constant downward force between the axle assembly and the ground surface.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The object of the invention is to provide an improved header support for a harvester.

According to the invention, this object is achieved with a header support that supports a harvester header, the header support comprising:

a frame including an interface with the harvester which can be connected to a harvester, a first support wheel rotatable about a first support wheel axis, said first support wheel being mounted on a first support wheel axis,

BE2016 / 5778

BE2016 / 5778 a coupling device, which is suitable for coupling the first support wheel to the frame, the coupling device comprising the following:

a first coupling element, which is connected to the first support wheel axle, and a second coupling element, which is connected to the frame and to the first coupling element, wherein the first and the second coupling element are hinged relative to each other over a hinge angle and around a first hinge axis the first pivot axis extending a certain distance from and substantially parallel to the first support wheel axis, the coupling device having a forward and reverse mode, the forward clutch position being in a forward position with respect to the second coupling element, and wherein in the reverse mode the first coupling element is in a reverse position relative to the second coupling element, wherein the first coupling element is movable from the forward driving position to the reverse driving position and / or vice versa through the first link element at Hinges relative to the second coupling element around the first hinge axis.

According to the invention, the header support includes a frame. The frame includes a harvester interface, which can be connected to a harvester, for example, to the header and / or the harvester feed system.

The header support further includes a first support wheel rotatable about a first support wheel axis. The first support wheel is mounted on a first support wheel axle. The first support wheel axle is, for example, a stationary axle around which the first support wheel rotates. Alternatively, the first support wheel axle is a rotatable shaft which rotates around the first support wheel axle together with the first support wheel.

The cutterbar support according to the invention further comprises a coupling provision. The coupling device is suitable for coupling the first support wheel to the frame. The coupling device includes a first coupling element and a second coupling element. The first coupling element is connected to the first support wheel axle and the second coupling element is connected to the frame and to the first coupling element.

The first and second coupling members are pivotable relative to each other over a hinge angle and around a first pivot axis. The first hinge shaft stretches

-3BE2016 / 5778 see at a distance from the first support wheel axle. The first pivot axis extends substantially parallel to the first support wheel axis.

The clutch device has a forward drive mode and a reverse drive mode. In the forward drive mode, the first coupling element is in a forward driving position relative to the second coupling element. In reverse mode, the first clutch element is in a reverse position relative to the second clutch element. The first coupling element is movable relative to the second coupling element from the forward driving position to the reverse driving position, or vice versa by hinging the first coupling element relative to the second coupling element around the first hinge axis. The forward and reverse positions differ.

The second coupling element is optionally integrated in the frame.

Optionally, the first support wheel is pivotable about a secondary pivot axis extending in a vertical direction.

Optionally, the first support wheel is pivotable about a secondary pivot axis extending perpendicular to the first support wheel axis.

The arrangement according to the invention makes it possible to use a first support wheel which is not actively turned when the harvester makes a left or right turn. For example, a swivel wheel can be used that can freely pivot around a vertical axis and / or around an axis perpendicular to the first support wheel axis, e.g. free pivot around a vertical axis, optionally over a limited pivot angle less than 180 ° to the left and to the right. This greatly simplifies the construction of the header support.

The coupling device according to the invention enables the first support wheel, which is for instance a swivel wheel, to be able to switch between a forward driving position and a reverse driving position without pivoting through 180 ° about a vertical axis and / or about an axis which is perpendicular to the first support wheel axle. This reduces the space that must be available for the header support under the harvester. In some configurations it is even possible to fit a double support wheel in the header support.

The words "forward / forward", backward / backward, "front / front / front" and "rear / rear / rear" refer to the main driving direction of the harvester. "Front Spline Forward" refers to the

-4BE2016 / 5778 main harvester direction of travel, which is straight ahead.

"Rear / back / backward" is the opposite direction.

In the header support, the words “forward”, reverse / forward, “front” and “rear” refer to the main direction of travel of a harvester incorporating the header support of the invention. For example, a front section of the header support is, for example, a front section when the header support is mounted on a harvester.

Moving the first coupling element relative to the second coupling element includes moving the first coupling element and at the same time keeping the second coupling element stationary, moving the second coupling element and at the same time keeping the first coupling element stationary moving the first coupling element and the second coupling element relative to each other.

In a possible embodiment, the header support further comprises, in addition to the first support wheel, a second support wheel. Preferably, the second support wheel is rotatable about the first support wheel axis, i.e. around the same axis as the first support wheel. Alternatively, the second support wheel is rotatable about a separate second support wheel axis.

The second support wheel is optionally mounted on the first support wheel axle. Alternatively, the second support wheel is mounted on a separate second support wheel axle. For example, the second support wheel is rotatable about the first or the second support wheel axis. Alternatively, the first or second support wheel axle can rotate together with the second support wheel.

Optionally, the second support wheel is pivotable about a secondary pivot shaft extending in a vertical direction.

Optionally, the second support wheel is pivotable about a secondary pivot axis extending perpendicular to the second support wheel axis.

Optionally, both the first support wheel and the second support wheel are pivotable around the same secondary pivot axis.

In a possible embodiment when the coupling device is in the forward drive mode, the first support wheel axle is arranged behind the first hinge axle.

In a possible embodiment when the coupling device is in reverse driving mode, the first support wheel axle is in front of the first hinge axle.

-5BE2016 / 5778

In a possible embodiment, when the clutch device is in forward drive mode, the first support wheel axle is behind the first pivot axis, and when the clutch device is in reverse mode, the first support wheel axle is in front of the first pivot axis.

The words "before" and "behind" refer to the main direction of travel of a harvester that includes the header support according to the invention. For example, if the header support is viewed in a side view with the main driving direction of the agricultural vehicle pointing to the right, “rear” means “on the left side of” and “ahead” “on the right side of. Even if reverse mode can be used to reverse, in this example, the left means front to the right of.

In these embodiments, the first support wheels faithfully follow the movements of the harvester during use, particularly when the first support wheel is a swivel wheel, optionally! a swivel wheel freely rotatable about an axis perpendicular to the first support wheel axis. This results in improved stability during use.

In an embodiment where a second support wheel is rotatable about a second support wheel shaft, the second support wheel shaft is optionally behind the first pivot shaft when the clutch is in forward drive mode.

In an embodiment where a second support wheel is rotatable about a second support wheel shaft, the second support wheel shaft is optionally in front of the first pivot shaft when the clutch is in reverse mode.

In an embodiment in which a second support wheel is rotatable about a second support wheel shaft, the second support wheel shaft is optionally behind the first pivot shaft when the clutch device is in forward drive mode and the second support wheel is in front of the first pivot shaft when the clutch device is in reverse mode.

In a possible embodiment, the coupling provision further comprises a first stop and a second stop. The first stop and the second stop define the hinge angle of the coupling device. The first stop performs its function with respect to at least one of the coupling elements, the first and the second, when the coupling device is in forward drive mode. The second stop performs its function with respect to at least one of the coupling elements, the first and the second, when the coupling device is in reverse driving mode.

Optionally, the first stop performs its function with respect to the first coupling element when the coupling device is in forward drive mode.

-6BE2016 / 5778 and the second stop performs its function with respect to the first coupling element when the coupling device is in reverse driving mode.

Optionally, both the first stop and the second stop are provided on the second coupling element, and the first stop performs its function with respect to the first coupling element when the coupling device is in forward driving mode and the second stop performs its function with respect to the first coupling element when the clutch is in reverse mode.

Optionally, both the first stop and the second stop are provided on the first coupling element, and the first stop performs its function with respect to the second coupling element when the coupling device is in forward drive mode and the second stop performs its function with respect to the second coupling element the clutch is in the eight-drive mode.

In a possible embodiment, the coupling provision further comprises a third coupling element. The third coupling element is suitable for hinging the first support wheel relative to the frame around a secondary pivot axis. The secondary pivot axis extends in an essentially vertical direction and / or in a direction perpendicular to the first support wheel axis.

Optionally, the coupling provision further includes a left stop and a right stop suitable to limit the pivoting movement of the first support wheel about the secondary pivot shaft.

The first support wheel is optionally freely pivotable around the secondary pivot shaft.

Optionally, when the clutch device is in forward drive mode, the first support wheel axle is behind the secondary pivot axle.

Optionally, when the coupling device is in reverse mode, the first support wheel axle is located in front of the secondary hinge axle.

Optionally, when the clutch device is in forward drive mode, the first support wheel axle is behind the secondary pivot shaft, and when the clutch device is in reverse drive mode, the first support wheel axle is in front of the secondary pivot shaft.

In a variant of the above embodiment, a second support wheel is provided and the third coupling element is suitable for both the first support wheel

BE2016 / 5778 as the second support wheel around the secondary pivot axis relative to the frame to allow Hinges.

Optionally, if the coupling device further includes a left stop and a right stop, the left stop and the right stop are further suitable to limit the pivoting movement of the second support wheel around the secondary pivot shaft.

Optionally, the second support wheel is freely pivotable around the secondary pivot shaft.

Optionally, the first support wheel and the second support wheel together are freely pivotable about the secondary pivot axis. During pivoting around the secondary pivot axis, the first support wheel and the second support wheel remain in the same position relative to each other.

Optionally, the second support wheel is rotatable about a second support wheel axle, and when the clutch is in forward drive mode, the second support wheel axle is behind the secondary hinge axle.

Optionally, the second support wheel is rotatable about a second support wheel axle, and when the clutch is in forward drive mode, the second support wheel axle is in front of the secondary pivot axle.

Optionally, the second support wheel is rotatable about a second support wheel axle and when the clutch device is in forward drive mode, the second support wheel axle is behind the secondary pivot shaft and when the clutch device is in reverse mode, the second support wheel axle is in front of the secondary pivot shaft .

In a possible embodiment, the first and the second coupling element are movable from the forward driving position to the reverse driving position and / or vice versa under the influence of the friction and / or rolling resistance which occur between the first supporting wheel (and possibly the second supporting wheel as there is a second support wheel) and the ground. When the harvester drives while the first support wheel touches the ground, the friction and / or rolling resistance between the first support wheel and the ground causes a frictional force on the first support wheel in a direction opposite to the direction in which the harvester drives.

The frictional force is transferred to the first coupling element via the wheel axle. Meanwhile, the second coupling element is subjected to the movement of the harvester. Thus, the first coupling element, to the

-8BE2016 / 5778 second clutch element, subject to a residual force in the opposite direction to the current direction of travel.

If the coupling device is in the correct driving position, ie driving the forward position when the harvester is moving forward or driving the reverse position when the harvester is driving in reverse, the resulting force will push the coupling device even more into the correct driving position or, if the stopper is present, against the attack.

However, if the clutch device is not in the correct driving position, the resulting force may cause the first clutch element to pivot about the first pivot axis relative to the second clutch element and thus drive the clutch device from forward to reverse or vice versa. versa, so that the coupling device can be put in the correct driving position without any additional action being required by an operator of the harvester. This makes it possible to relatively easily change the direction of travel of the harvester that a header support according to this embodiment from forward to reverse, which is convenient for quickly performing maneuvers requiring changing direction of travel

The friction and rolling resistance between the first support wheel and the ground depend, inter alia, on the weight carried by the first support wheel and the coefficient of friction between the first support wheel and the ground. The resulting force between the first and second coupling members may in some cases not be sufficient to cause the pivoting movement. This could happen, for example, if the harvester is on a slope and not enough weight is placed on the first support wheel, or on a certain surface where the coefficient of friction between the surface and the first support wheel is not sufficient to produce the necessary force.

To compensate for these and other effects, the first support wheel (and possibly the second support wheel if a second support wheel is present) is suitable in a possible embodiment to be put in a locked position. In the locked position, rotation about the first support wheel axis by the first support wheel is prevented or at least limited.

Instead of turning, the first support wheel will now at least partially slide over the ground when the harvester is driven with the first support wheel on the ground. This causes friction between the first support wheel and the

-9BE2016 / 5778 ground to increase it significantly, also increasing the corresponding resulting force between the first and the second coupling element.

The resulting increased force now enables the first coupling member to pivot about the first pivot axis relative to the second coupling member, causing the coupling device to move from forward to reverse or vice versa. To position the first support wheel in the locked position, the header support in this embodiment further includes a locking mechanism. Any suitable blocking mechanism known by a person skilled in the art may be used, such as a disc brake, a locking pin, or any other brake mechanism.

In this embodiment, the movement from the forward driving position to the reverse driving position and / or vice versa can be performed by moving the first support wheel to the locked position. The harvester is then moved in the preferred direction of travel, i.e. forward or backward. The resulting force between the first and the second coupling element causes the first coupling element to pivot about the first hinge axis relative to the second coupling element, thereby bringing the coupling provision into the preferred position, i.e. driving forward or reverse position. When the coupling device is in the preferred position, the first support wheel can be released from the locked position.

In one embodiment, the first support wheel can be manually locked in the locked position, e.g. by applying a brake or inserting a locking pin.

In one embodiment, the first support wheel can be automatically locked in the locked position, e.g. by applying an automated hydraulic brake. In a further embodiment thereof, the header support includes sensors that detect whether the clutch is in the forward or reverse position. The header support also includes a control system for the header support of a harvester. The header support control system of a harvester is suitable for moving the first support wheel to the locked position when necessary. As an example, the harvester may start to reverse while the coupling device is in the forward drive position. Preferably, the first coupling element will pivot around the first pivot axis relative to the second pivoting element under the influence of the force caused by the friction and / or rolling resistance between the first

- 10BE2016 / 5778 support wheel and the ground, thereby placing the coupling device in reverse. The above-mentioned force may not be sufficient for this. The header support control system is capable of receiving feedback from the sensors to detect whether or not the coupling device is in the correct position. The header support control system is further capable of subsequently moving the first support wheel to the locked position, eg by applying a hydraulic brake, thereby increasing the force and ensuring that the clutch is moved to the reverse position. The header support will then move the first support wheel out of the locked position, eg by releasing the hydraulic brake. A similar method can be used to move the coupling device from the reverse driving position to the forward driving position.

In a possible embodiment, the first and second coupling elements are movable from the forward driving position to the reverse driving position and / or vice versa under the influence of gravity.

Thus, the construction can be further simplified.

In this embodiment, the movement from the forward driving position to the reverse driving position and / or vice versa can be performed by raising the first support wheel (and the second support wheel if a second support wheel is present) from the ground and thus the first coupling element Hinges around the first pivot axis relative to the second coupling element. Optionee! tilting the header and / or harvester feed system to which the header support is attached can help achieve the desired movement.

The first coupling element is optionally moved from the forward driving position fully to the reverse driving position and / or vice versa under the influence of gravity.

Alternatively, the first coupling element is moved from the forward driving position to the reverse driving position via an intermediate position between the forward driving position and the reverse driving position. Then the first support wheel is lowered to the ground and the harvester begins to drive in the backward direction. Under the influence of the friction between the first support wheel and the ground, the first coupling element is moved further from the intermediate position to, and eventually drives into the reverse position. Likewise, the first coupling element is moved from the reverse driving position to the forward driving position to an intermediate position between the reverse driving position and the forward driving position.

- 11 BE2016 / 5778

The first support wheel is then lowered to the ground and the harvester begins to drive in the forward direction. Under the influence of the friction between the first support wheel and the ground, the first coupling element is moved further from the intermediate position to and finally travel to the forward position.

In a possible embodiment, the coupling device further comprises a locking device for blocking the first and second coupling element in the forward driving position and / or in the reverse driving position.

This prevents undesired movement of the first coupling element relative to the second coupling element from the forward driving position to or into the reverse driving position and / or vice versa.

In a possible embodiment, the frame further comprises a first arm and a second arm. The first arm has a coupling side connected to the coupling device and a harvester side. The second arm has a coupling side connected to the coupling device and a harvester side. The frame harvester interface includes a first connecting element and a second connecting element. The first connecting element is mounted on the harvester side of the first arm, and the second connecting element is mounted on the harvester side of the second arm.

Optionally, the first connecting member includes a series of bracing members. Optionally, the second connecting member includes a series of bracing members.

Optionally, the first connecting member and / or the second connecting member are able to rotate the frame about a vertical axis relative to the header and / or the harvester feed system.

Optionally, the second connecting element is disposed substantially directly above the coupling device and the first connecting element is arranged at a higher level and at a horizontal distance from the coupling device.

The first and / or the second connecting element are optionally equipped with a damper.

The second arm is optionally equipped with a Hinge that is fitted between the coupling side and the harvester side. This facilitates driving over limited height differences, such as curbs. Optionally, the frame further includes a hydraulic cylinder that has a first end connected to the second arm, allowing the change of the vertical distance between the coupling facility and the second connecting element. This allows the header support to fold closed

- 12BE2016 / 5778 when it is not desired to use it, for example during the operational field mode of the harvester. The harvester can drive over limited height differences, such as curbs, leading to vertical displacements of the support wheel. These vertical displacements can be at least partially absorbed by the hydraulic cylinder. Thus, the hydraulic cylinder has a damping effect. To flatten the corresponding pressure peaks in the hydraulic cylinder, the hydraulic cylinder may include a fluid-filled line communicating with a hydraulic accumulator. The hydraulic accumulator acts as a pressurized storage reservoir, helping to smooth the pressure surges. Any suitable buffer vessel known to the person skilled in the art can be used for this.

The invention further relates to a combination of a harvester and a header support according to the invention. The harvester further includes a harvester header and feed system, and the header support frame is connected to the header and / or to the feed system via the frame interface.

In a possible embodiment of the harvester according to the invention, the first support wheel is movable between a ground contacting position and a retracted position.

Optionally, if a second support wheel is provided, the first support wheel and the second support wheel are movable between a ground contacting position and a retracted position. Optionally, the first support wheel and the second support wheel are movable simultaneously between a ground contacting position and a retracted position.

This embodiment made it possible to use the support wheel or the support wheels only when this is necessary or desired, e.g. only when the harvester is driven on a public road. If the header support is intended to be used only during road transport, the first and optionally the second support wheel may have a relatively small diameter, allowing the header support construction to be compact and easier to mount on the harvester. If the header support is also intended to be used when driving the harvester across the field, the diameter of the support wheel or wheels is preferably slightly larger to avoid unwanted compaction of the soil.

- 13 BE2016 / 5778

In a possible embodiment of the harvester according to the invention, the harvester has a road transport mode and an operational field mode. Optionally, the first support wheel is in a ground contacting position when the harvester is in road transport mode.

Optionally, if a second support wheel is provided, both the first support wheel and the second support wheel are in a position in which they contact the ground when the harvester is in road transport mode.

In a possible embodiment of the harvester according to the invention, the harvester comprises front wheels or front tracks. Optionally, the first header wheel support wheel is located in front of the front wheels or front tracks when the first support wheel is in a ground contacting position.

Optionally, if a second support wheel is provided, both the first support wheel and the second support wheel are located in front of the front wheels or the front tracks when the first support wheel and the second support wheel are in a position in which they contact the ground.

Placing the support wheel or wheels close to the front wheels or front tracks of the harvester means that only a small hinge angle around the secondary hinge axis is sufficient for the support wheel or wheels to follow the steering movements of the harvester.

The invention further relates to a method for operating a harvesting machine according to the invention, comprising the following steps:

arranging the first header wheel support wheel on the ground, driving the harvester in a forward direction, thereby ensuring that the first clutch element is in a forward position relative to the second clutch element, stopping the displacement of the harvester, raising the first support wheel off the ground, applying the first header wheel support wheel to the ground, driving the harvester in a backward direction, ensuring that the first clutch element is in reverse position with respect to the second clutch element .

. 14BE2016 / 5778

The invention further relates to a method for operating a harvesting machine according to the invention, comprising the following steps:

placing the first header wheel support wheel on the ground, driving the harvester in a rearward direction, causing the first clutch element to move in a reverse position Position with respect to the second clutch element, stopping the harvester from moving, raising the first support wheel off the ground, mounting the first header wheel support wheel on the ground, driving the harvester in a forward direction, causing the first coupling element to be in a forward position relative to the second coupling element.

The above described method of operating an agricultural vehicle requires a limited or no control system and few or no sensors. The header support itself requires a limited or no control system and few or no sensors, as the support wheel is not actively driven or steered. This means that the header support according to the invention is easy to install, has very few weaknesses and requires only a limited amount of maintenance,

Nevertheless, optional sensors can be used, eg to detect whether the support wheel is in contact with the ground or in the retracted position, and / or to detect whether the clutch is in forward or reverse mode. Any suitable sensors known to those skilled in the art can be used. The sensors can provide feedback to an operator of the harvester, for example through an indication on a screen or via a tell-tale. The sensors can also be integrated into a control system that ensures the correct position of the support wheel, by providing feedback on the current position of the support wheel. Such a control system can, for example, warn the operator or even stop the harvester when the harvester starts to reverse and the coupling device is not in reverse. It is further contemplated that the sensors may be adapted to communicate with oak to be incorporated into other agricultural vehicle control systems or function of agricultural vehicle control / operating systems.

- 15 BE2016 / 5778

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the figures, in which non-limiting exemplary embodiments of the invention will be shown. In the different figures, the same reference numbers were used to indicate the same characteristics.

In the figures illustrate or illustrate:

Figure 1: an agricultural machine containing a possible embodiment of a header support according to the invention;

Figures 2a-2b: a possible embodiment of a header support according to the invention;

Figures 3a-3b: a side view of a possible embodiment of a coupling provision of a header support according to the invention;

Figures 4a-4b: an agricultural machine containing a possible embodiment of a header support according to the invention in the road transport mode and in the operational field mode;

Figures 5a-5b: a possible embodiment of a header support according to the invention in unfolded and folded-up position.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Figure 1 shows an agricultural machine 3 containing a possible embodiment of a header support 1 according to the invention. During harvesting, the agricultural vehicle includes a header 2 (as shown in Figures 4a and 4b), which is used to harvest crop such as corn or grain. The harvester 3 has a main driving direction 44, i.e. the forward driving direction. In Figure 1, the main row direction 44 of the harvester 2 is outside the paper, towards the reader. During harvesting, the harvester may further include a feed system 32 (as shown in Figures 4 and 4b). An object of the header support 1 is to support at least part of the weight of the header 2 and / or feed system 32, thereby limiting the load on the front axle of the harvester 3.

Figures 2a and 2b show two views of a possible embodiment of header support 1 according to the invention. The header support 1 includes a frame 4. The frame includes a harvester interface, which can be connected to a

16BE2016 / 5778 harvester 3, for example with the header 2 and / or the feed system 32 of the harvester 3. The header support 1 further comprises a first support wheel 6, which is rotatable about a first support wheel axis 7. The first support wheel 6 is mounted on a first support wheel axle 8. The first support wheel shaft 8 is a stationary shaft around which the first support wheel 6 rotates. The header support 1 in Figures 2a and 2b further includes a second support wheel 43. In an alternative embodiment, the header support 1 can only be equipped with the first support wheel 6. The second support wheel 43 is rotatable about the first support wheel axis 7, i.e. around the same axis as the first support wheel 6, and the second support wheel 43 is mounted on the first support wheel axle 8.

The header of a harvesting machine 1 further comprises a coupling provision 9. The coupling provision 9 is suitable for hopping the support wheels 6, 43 to the frame 4. The coupling provision 9 includes a first coupling element 10 and a second coupling element 11. The first coupling element 10 is connected to the first support wheel axle 8, and the second coupling element 11 is connected to the frame 4 and to the first coupling element 10.

The first coupling element 10 and second coupling element 11 can hinge relative to each other at a hinge angle and around a first hinge axis

13. The first pivot shaft 13 extends at a distance from the first support wheel shaft 7. The first pivot shaft 13 extends essentially parallel to the first support wheel shaft 7.

Figures 3a and 3b show an enlarged side view of a possible embodiment of the coupling provision 9. In practice, the coupling provision 9 can be hidden behind the first support wheel 6. For clarity, the coupling device 9 in Figures 3a and 3b is shown.

The first pivot shaft 13 and the first support wheel shaft 7 extend perpendicular to the plane of the drawing in Figures 3a and 3b. The clutch arrangement 9 has a forward drive mode as shown in Figure 3a and a reverse mode as shown in Figure 3b. In the forward drive mode, the first clutch element 10 is in a forward position relative to the second clutch element 11. In the reverse mode, the first clutch element 10 is in a reverse position relative to the second clutch element 11. The first coupling element 10 is movable relative to the second coupling element 11 from the forward driving position to the reverse driving position and / or vice versa by rotating the first coupling element 10 relative to the second coupling element 11 around the first pivot axis 13. As to

- 17BE2016 / 5778 can be seen in the figures that the forward driving position and the reverse driving position differ from each other.

The coupling device 9 allows the support wheels 6, 43 to switch between a forward and a reverse position without pivoting through 180 ° about a vertical axis and / or an axis perpendicular to the first support wheel axis

7. This reduces the amount of space that must be available for the header support 1 under the harvester 3.

When the clutch device 9 is in forward drive mode, the first support wheel axle 7 is behind the first pivot shaft 13, as shown in Figure 3a, and when the clutch device 9 is in reverse mode, the first support wheel axle 7 is in front the first pivot axis 13, As can be seen in Figure 3b.

The words "front" and "rear" refer to the main driving direction 44 of the agricultural machine 3 which includes the header support 1 according to the invention, not the current driving direction of the harvester 3. Thus, in Figures 3a and 3b, the fore to the left of and corresponds to the right of behind.

This optional feature, when using the support wheels 6, 43, ensures that the steering movements of the harvester 3 are followed faithfully, in particular when the support wheels 6, 43 are swivel wheels, more precisely a swivel wheel which is freely rotatable about an axis which is perpendicular stands on the first support wheel axle 7. This therefore leads to improved stability while driving.

In the embodiment of Figures 3a and 3b, the coupling provision 9 further comprises a first stop 14 and a second stop 15. The first stop 14 and the second stop 15 define the hinge angle over which the coupling provision 9 can pivot. Both the first stop 14 and the second stop 15 are arranged on the second coupling element 11. The first stop 14 performs its function with respect to the first coupling element 10 when the coupling provision 9 is in the forward drive mode, as shown in Figure 3a and the second stop 15 performs its function with respect to the first coupling element 10 when the coupling provision 9 is in the reverse mode, as shown in Figure 3b. In an alternative embodiment, the first stop 14 and the second stop 15 could be arranged on the first coupling element 10 and exercise their function with respect to the second coupling element 11.

- 18BE2016 / 5778

The coupling device 9 further optionally includes a locking device (not shown) for locking the first coupling element 10 and the second coupling element 11 in the forward driving position and / or in the reverse driving position.

The coupling device 9 further includes a third coupling element 16, which is best visible in Figure 2a. The third coupling element 16 is adapted to enable the support wheels 6, 43 to pivot relative to the frame 4 around a secondary pivot shaft 17. The secondary pivot shaft 17 extends in an essentially vertical direction and in a direction perpendicular to the first support wheel shaft 7. By pivoting around the secondary hinge shaft 17, the support wheels 6, 43 are able to follow the harvester 3 during a steering movement. The support wheels 6, 43 are freely pivotable around the secondary pivot shaft 17.

Alternatively, the coupling provision 9 may further include a left stop (not shown) and a right stop (not shown) adapted to limit the pivoting movement of the support wheels 6, 43 about the secondary pivot shaft 17.

As can be seen in Figures 3a and 3b, when the clutch device 9 is in forward drive mode, the first support wheel axle is behind the secondary hinge axle and when the clutch device is in reverse mode, the first support wheel axle 7 is in the front of the secondary pivot shaft 17.

Figures 4a and 4b show a harvester 3 containing a possible embodiment of a header support 1 according to the invention. The harvester 3 further includes a header of a harvester and a feed system 32, and the frame 4 of the header support 1 is connected to the header and / or to the feed system 32 via the frame interface 5 (not shown in Figures 4a and 4b) . The support wheels 6, 43 are movable between a ground contacting position shown in Figure 4a and a retracted position shown in Figure 4b. This makes it possible to use the support wheels 6, 43 only when it is necessary or desired, eg only when the harvester is driven on a public road.

The harvester has a road transport mode and an operational field mode. The first support wheel 6 is in a ground contacting position when the harvester 3 is in road transport mode. In this embodiment where a second support wheel 43 is present, both the first support wheel 6 and the second support wheel 43 make contact with the ground when the harvester 3 is in road transport mode.

- 19BE2016 / 5778

Harvester 3 as shown in Figures 4a and 4b includes tracks 45 at the front. Alternatively, the agricultural vehicle could include front wheels. The support wheels 6, 43 of the header support 1 are located on the front of the front wheels or the front tracks 45 when the support wheels 6, 43 are in a ground contacting position.

Placing the support wheel or wheels near the front wheels or the front tracks 45 of the harvester 3, for example within 1 meter of the axle of the front wheels, ensures that only a small hinge angle around the secondary pivot shaft 17 is sufficient for the support wheels 6 , 43 to follow the steering movements of the harvester 3.

Figures 5a and 5b show a possible embodiment of the header support 1 in unfolded and folded position, respectively. In this embodiment, the frame 4 includes a first arm 21 and a second arm 24. The first arm 21 includes a coupling side 22 connected to the coupling device 9 and a harvesting machine side 23. The second arm 24 includes a coupling side 25 connected to the coupling device 9 and a harvester side 26. The harvester interface 5 of the frame 4 includes a first connecting element 27 and a second connecting element 28. The first connecting element 27 is arranged on the harvester side 23 of the first arm 21, and the second connecting element 28 is provided on the harvester side 26 of the second arm 24. The second connecting element 28 is arranged substantially directly above the coupling provision 9 and the first connecting element 27 is arranged at a higher level and at a horizontal distance from the coupling provision 9.

The second arm 24 is equipped with a hinge 29 which is arranged between the coupling side 25 and the harvester side 26. The hinge 29 allows coupling side 25 to move relative to the harvester side 26. This facilitates driving over limited height differences, such as curbs. When driving over such a height difference, at least part of the vertical movement can be obviated by the movement of the coupling side 25 relative to the harvester side 26 of the second arm 24.

The frame 4 further includes a hydraulic cylinder 30 which has a first end 31 connected to the second arm 24, so that it is possible to change the vertical distance between the coupling provision 9 and the second connecting element 28. This makes it possible to close the header support 1 when closed

-20BE2016 / 5778 use is not desirable, for example during the operational field mode of the harvester 3. By extending the hydraulic cylinder 30 and thereby carrying Hinge 29, the first support wheel 6 can be lifted, as shown in Figure 4b. This allows the header support to be folded shut. The position of the header support 1 in Figure 5a corresponds to the position shown in Figure 4a, while the position of the header support 1 in Figure 5b corresponds to the position shown in Figure 4b.

The hydraulic cylinder 30 further has a damping effect when the harvester 3 drives over height differences, such as curbs. To flatten the corresponding pressure peaks in the hydraulic cylinder 30, the hydraulic cylinder 30 may communicate with a hydraulic buffer vessel (not shown) via a fluid-filled line. The hydraulic accumulator acts as a pressurized storage reservoir, helping to smooth the pressure surges.

The agricultural vehicle 3 contains the header support 1 and can be used in a simple manner to switch from forward driving to reverse and vice versa. Assuming that it is desirable to drive the agricultural vehicle 3 on the road in a forward direction, corresponding to the main driving direction 44, when driving on the road, the agricultural vehicle will be set in the road transport direction, and the support wheels 6 , 43 are in a contacting position with the ground, and thus stand on the ground. By driving the agricultural vehicle 3 in a forward direction, the friction between the road and the support wheels 6, 43 results in a force in the opposite direction from the main driving direction 44 to which the support wheels 6, 43 are subjected. Thus, the first coupling element 10 is set in the forward driving position relative to the second coupling element 11. The coupling provision 1 is now in the situation shown in Figure 3a, the frame 4 is in the situation shown in Figure 5a, and the harvester 3 is in the situation shown in Figure 4a. The weight of the header 2, which is supported at least in part by the header support 1, will force the first coupling element 10 and the second coupling element 11 to remain in this position. To change the direction of travel from forward to reverse, the agricultural vehicle 3 can be stopped and the support wheel 6, 43 lifted from the ground. By lifting the first support wheel off the ground, the weight of the header 2 is no longer carried by the header support 1, and the first coupling element 10 is able to move relative to the second coupling element 11.

-21 BE2016 / 5778

Hinges. The support wheels 6, 43 can now be lowered to the ground again. By driving in the rearward direction with the harvester 3, the friction between the road and the support wheels 6, 43 results in a force parallel to the main driving direction 44 to which the first support wheel is subject. Thus, the first coupling element 10 is put in a reverse position relative to the second coupling element 11. The header support 1 is now in the situation shown in Figure 3b. In a similar manner, the harvester 3 can switch from reverse to forward.

The agricultural vehicle 3 containing the header support 1 could also be operated to switch from forward to reverse, and vice versa under the effect of friction and / or rolling resistance occurring between the support wheels 6, 43 and the ground .

This will be further explained with reference to Figure 3b. In this Figure, the coupling device 9 is in the reverse position. Assuming that the agricultural machine is moving forward, i.e. in the main driving direction 44. The first support wheel 6 is subjected to a friction force 200, in a direction opposite to the main driving direction 44. Although the second support wheel 43 is subjected to a comparable frictional force, in order to keep it simple, the explanation be limited to the first support wheel 6.

The frictional force 200 is transferred, via the first support wheel axle 8, to the first coupling element 10. Meanwhile, the second coupling element 11 is subjected to the movement of the harvester 3, in the main row direction 44. This results in a resulting force 201 between the first coupling element 10 and the second coupling element 11. The resulting force 201 causes the first coupling element 10 to pivot around the first pivot axis 13 relative to the second coupling element 11. Thus, the coupling provision 9 is moved from the reverse driving position to the forward driving position

Now assuming that the resulting force 201 would be insufficient to cause the Hinges, the first support wheel 6 can be brought into a locked position, preventing or at least reducing the rotation of the first support wheel 6. The first support wheel 6 can be brought into the locked position by using a disc brake (not shown). In the locked position, the first support wheel 6 will slide on the ground instead of rolling over it. This causes an increase in the frictional force 200, and thus causes an increase in

22BE2016 / 5778 the corresponding residual force 201. Thus, the resulting force 201 is now sufficient to cause this hinging.

In some embodiments, the coupling means 9 has an intermediate position between the forward travel position and the reverse travel position.

In these embodiments, the coupling provision 9 can be placed in the intermediate position before driving the harvester 3. As a result of the friction between the ground and the support wheels 6, 43, the coupling device 9 will automatically be set in the desired position, i.e. in the forward or reverse position, as soon as the harvester 3 moves forward or backward.

Switching the clutch device from one driving position to another, ie forward, reverse or in an intermediate position, can be done by gravity, eg if the weight of the support wheels 6, 43 is carried by the header support 1 during the lifting the support wheels 6, 43.

-23 BE2016 / 5778

Claims (15)

CONCLUSIONS: 1. Header support (1) for a harvester to support a header of a harvester (3), where the header support (1) includes: a frame (4), said frame (4) including an interface (5) with the harvester connectable to a harvester (3), a first support wheel (6) rotatable about a first support wheel axis (7), said first support wheel (6) being mounted on a first support wheel axle (8), a coupling device (9) adapted to couple the first support wheel (6) to the tram (4), the coupling device (9) being the following contains: a first coupling element (10), which is connected to the first support wheel axle (8), and a second coupling element (11), which is connected to the frame (4) and to the first coupling element (10), wherein the first and the second coupling element (10, 11) are pivotable relative to each other over a pivot angle and around a first pivot axis (13), the first pivot axis (13) extending a certain distance from and substantially parallel to the first support wheel axis (7), the coupling device (9) has a forward driving mode and a reverse driving mode, wherein in the forward driving mode the first coupling element (10) is in a forward driving position relative to the second coupling element (11), and in mode reverse gear the first coupling element (10) is in a reverse position relative to the second coupling element (11), the first coupling element (11) being movable from the forward position drive to reverse position and / or vice versa by Hinging the first coupling element (10) relative to the second coupling element (11) around the first hinge axis (13). Header support (1) for a harvester according to claim 1, wherein when the coupling device (9) is in forward drive mode, the first support wheel axle (7) is behind the first hinge axle (13). -24BE2016 / 5778 Header support (1) for a harvester according to claim 1, wherein, when the coupling device (9) is in reverse mode, the first support wheel axle (7) is in front of the first hinge axle (13). Harvester header (1) according to claim 1, wherein the coupling device (9) further includes a first stop (14) and a second stop (15) to define the hinge angle, and wherein the first stop (14) functions acts on at least one of the first and second coupling elements (11) when the coupling device (9) is in forward drive mode, and the second stop (15) performs its function on at least one of the first and second coupling elements (11 ) when the coupling device (9) is in reverse mode. Harvester header (1) according to claim 1, wherein the coupling means (9) further comprises a third coupling element (16) adapted to fit the first support wheel (6) relative to the frame (4) about a secondary pivot axis ( 17) Hinges, the secondary pivot shaft (17) extending in a substantially vertical direction, Harvester header (1) according to claim 5, wherein the coupling device (9) further comprises a left stop (18) and a right stop (19) adapted to pivot the first support wheel (6) pivotally about the secondary hinge shaft (17). Harvester header (1) according to claim 5, wherein the first support wheel (6) is freely pivotable about the secondary pivot axis (17). Header support (1) for a harvester according to claim 5, wherein, when the coupling device (9) is in forward drive mode, the first support wheel axle (7) is behind the secondary hinge axle (17) and when the coupling device (17) is in reverse mode, the first support wheel axle (7) is in front of the secondary hinge axle (17). - 25 BE2016 / 5778 The header for a harvester according to claim 1, wherein the first and second coupling elements (11) are movable from the forward driving position to the reverse driving position and / or vice versa under the influence of gravity. The header for a harvester according to claim 1, wherein the coupling means (9) further comprises a blocking means for blocking the first and second coupling elements (11) in the forward position and / or in the reverse position. The header support (1) for a harvester according to claim 1, wherein the frame (4) further includes the following: - a first arm (21), which has a coupling side (22) connected to the coupling device (9) and a harvester side (23), and - a second arm (24) containing a coupling side (22) connected to the coupling device (9) and a harvester side (23), the harvester interface (5) of the frame (4) including: - a first connecting piece (27) mounted on the harvester side (23) of the first arm (21), and - a second connecting piece (28) arranged on the harvester side (23) of the second arm (24), Header support (1) for a harvester according to claim 11, wherein the second arm (24) is provided with a hinge (29) arranged between the coupling side (22) and the harvester side (23), and wherein the frame (4 ) further includes a hydraulic cylinder (30) having a first end (31) connected to the second arm (24), permitting the change of the vertical distance between the coupling device (9) and the second connecting element (28) is becoming. Harvester (3) containing a header support (1) according to claim 1, wherein the harvester (3) includes cutterbar and a feed system (32), and the frame (4) of the header support (1) is connected to the header and / or with the feed system (32) via the frame interface. -26BE2016 / 5778 The harvesting machine (3) according to claim 13, wherein the first support wheel (6) is movable between a ground contacting center position and a retracted position. The harvesting machine (3) according to claim 13, wherein the harvesting machine (3) has a road transport mode and an operational field mode, and wherein the first support wheel (6) is in a ground contacting position when the harvesting machine (3) is in the road transport mode. BE2016 / 5778 i BE2016 / 5778 BE2016 / 5778 BE2016 / 5778 BE2016 / 5778 17 ¹