BR102018075216B1 - SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETECTING CROP LEVELS IN THE INTEGRATED STORAGE OF AN AGRICULTURAL SUGAR CANE HARVESTER - Google Patents

Abstract

is, in one aspect, a system for detecting crop levels in integrated storage of an agricultural combine that may include an elevator extending between a proximal end and a distal end, the elevator being configured to carry harvested crops. between its proximal and distal ends. The system may also include a storage feeder positioned adjacent to the distal end of the elevator, wherein the storage feeder defines a volume configured to receive harvested crops discharged from the distal end of the elevator. further, the system may include a fill level sensor provided in operative association with the storage feeder. The fill level sensor can be configured to detect a fill level of harvested crops contained in the storage volume of the storage feeder.

Description

FIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates generally to agricultural harvesters, such as sugarcane harvesters, and more particularly to a sensor for detecting crop fill levels in integrated storage of an agricultural harvester and related systems and methods .

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Typically, agricultural harvesters are accompanied by a receiver for harvested crops, such as a truck that is driven alongside or behind the combine, or a wagon towed by a truck or tractor. An unloading conveyor or elevator extends from the combine and is operable during the harvesting operation as it moves across the field to unload the harvested crops to the accompanying receiver.

[0003] Some harvesters, particularly combination harvesters, have an integrated crop transport capability, such as a large grain bin, so as not to need to be constantly accompanied by a receiver for harvested crops. Other combines have only limited integrated transport capability and require substantially constant monitoring by an external receiver or storage device. For example, sugar cane harvesters have an elongated upward-inclined elevator that uses one or more circulating chains to carry shovels or other crop transport elements upward along an upward-facing upper span of the elevator, and down along a downward-facing lower span of the elevator in an endless circuit. The harvested sugar cane is typically cut into smaller fragments and then conveyed by the paddles upward along the upper span of the elevator and for subsequent discharge from the distal end of the elevator to the accompanying receiver, such as a fragment car.

[0004] When an external receiver for a sugar cane harvester is missing or otherwise not properly positioned in relation to the harvester, the discharge elevator must be stopped to prevent the transported fragments from being discharged onto the ground . This situation can increase under a variety of conditions, such as if the attached receiver is full and must let the combine unload. As another example, the receiver can often be a trailed railcar which (along with its tow vehicle) sets a greater turning radius than the combine itself. In such cases, when a turn is made at the edge of the field, the receiver may not be immediately present to receive the harvested crops. As a result, the combine may have to pause operation until the receiver can be properly positioned relative to the combine. In each situation, there is a significant loss in harvester productivity.

[0005] Consequently, systems and methods that allow a combine to continue harvesting when an external receiver is not properly positioned relative to the combine would be welcome in the technology. Furthermore, systems and methods that utilize a sensor to detect crop fill levels in an agricultural combine's integrated storage would be welcome technology.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0006] Aspects and disadvantages of the invention will be set forth, in part, in the following description, or may be obvious from the description, or may be learned through practice of the invention.

[0007] In an etect, the present invention is directed to a system for etecting crop levels in an integrated storage of an agricultural harvester. The system may include an elevator that extends between a proximal end and a distal end, the elevator being configured to receive cultures harvested between its proximal and distal ends. The system may also include a storage feeder positioned adjacent to the distal end of the elevator, wherein the storage feeder defines a volume configured to receive harvested crops discharged from the distal end of the elevator. Additionally, the system may include a fill level sensor provided in association with the storage feeder. The fill level sensor can be configured to detect a fill level of harvested crops contained in the storage volume of the storage feeder.

[0008] In another aspect, the present invention is directed to a method for detecting crop levels in integrated storage of an agricultural harvester, the harvester comprising an elevator assembly that includes an elevator extending between a proximal end and a distal end. The elevator assembly may additionally include a storage feeder positioned adjacent to the distal end of the elevator. The method may include initially operating the combine in a crop discharge mode so that harvested crops are transported from the proximal end of the elevator to the distal end of the elevator and subsequently discharged from the combine through a discharge opening defined by the storage feeder. Additionally, upon receiving an input associated with operating the combine in a crop storage mode, the method may include reducing an operating speed of the elevator and blocking the discharge opening defined by the storage feeder so that the harvested crops are expelled. of the distal end of the elevator are stored in a storage volume of the storage feeder. Furthermore, the method may include monitoring a fill level of crops harvested in the storage feeder relative to a predetermined fill level threshold as the elevator is operated at reduced operating speed.

[0009] These and other features, aspects and disadvantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description and attached claims. The attached drawings, which are incorporated into and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0010] A complete and empowering description of the present invention, which includes the best mode thereof, directed to a person of ordinary skill in the art, is presented in the specification, which makes reference to the attached figures, in which: Figure 1 illustrates a simplified side view of an embodiment of an agricultural harvester in accordance with aspects of the present invention; Figure 2 illustrates a side view of a distal portion of a combine elevator assembly shown in Figure 1, which particularly illustrates components of a storage feeder of the elevator assembly in an open or unloading position (or positions) to allow harvested crops are unloaded from the elevator assembly in accordance with aspects of the present invention; Figure 3 illustrates another side view of the distal portion of the elevator assembly shown in Figure 2, which particularly illustrates the storage feeder components in a closed or storage position (or positions) to allow harvested crops to be temporarily stored in the storage feeder. storage in accordance with aspects of the present invention; Figure 4 illustrates an assembled view of an embodiment of a fill level sensor in accordance with aspects of the present invention; Figure 5 illustrates a partially exploded view of the fill level sensor shown in Figure 4; Figure 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the fill level sensor shown in Figure 4 taken around line 6-6; Figure 7 illustrates a schematic view of an embodiment of a system for detecting crop levels in integrated storage of an agricultural harvester in accordance with aspects of the present invention; Figure 8 illustrates a flowchart of an embodiment of a method for detecting crop levels in integrated storage of an agricultural harvester in accordance with aspects of the present invention; and Figure 9 illustrates another side view of the distal portion of the combine elevator assembly shown in Figure 2, which particularly illustrates the distal portion of the elevator assembly resting on an external receiver or storage device in accordance with aspects of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Reference will now be made in detail to the embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, without limiting the invention. Indeed, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations may be made to the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. For example, aspects illustrated or described as part of one embodiment may be used with another embodiment to produce yet a further embodiment. Therefore, the present invention is intended to cover such modifications and variations as they are presented within the scope of the attached claims and their equivalents.

[0012] Generally, the present invention is directed to a system and method for operating a harvester. Specifically, in many embodiments, an elevator assembly for an agricultural combine may include a storage feeder at its distal end for temporarily storing harvested crops therein. For example, the storage feeder may include one or more movable feeder components configured to be moved between an open or discharge position (or positions) in which harvested crops expelled from the distal end of the elevator may be discharged from the feeder into a receiver. external or storage device (i.e. when operating in a discharge operation mode) and a closed or storage position (or positions) in which harvested crops can be stored in a storage volume defined by the feeder (i.e. when operating in a harvest storage mode). Thus, when the external receiver or storage device is not properly positioned relative to the combine, the feeder component (or components) can be moved to the closed or storage position (or positions) to allow the harvested crops to be expelled from the harvester. distal end of the elevator are stored in the feeder storage volume without discontinuing operation of the elevator and/or the remainder of the combine.

[0013] Furthermore, in many embodiments, a fill level sensor (or sensors) may be installed in and/or relative to the storage feeder to detect the fill level of fragments contained therein. As will be described below, when operating in harvest storage mode, a controller of the disclosed system may be configured to monitor the fragment fill level in the storage feeder based on data/signals received from the harvest level sensor (or sensors). fill. When it is detected that the fragment fill level has reached and/or exceeded a predetermined fill level threshold, the controller can be configured to initiate an appropriate control action. For example, in one embodiment, the controller may be configured to stop operation of the elevator to prevent additional fragments from being expelled from the elevator into the storage feeder.

[0014] Referring now to the drawings, Figure 1 illustrates a side view of an embodiment of an agricultural harvester 10 in accordance with aspects of the present subject. As shown, the harvester 10 is configured as a sugar cane harvester. However, in other embodiments, the combine 10 may correspond to any suitable agricultural combine known in the art.

[0015] As shown in Figure 1, the combine 10 includes a frame 12, a pair of front wheels 14, a pair of rear wheels 16 and an operator's cabin 18. The combine 10 may also include a primary power source (e.g. example, a frame-mounted motor mechanism 12) that powers one or both pairs of wheels 14 16 via a transmission (not shown). Alternatively, the combine 10 may be a track-driven combine and therefore may include tracks driven by the drive mechanism opposite the illustrated wheels 14, 16. The drive mechanism may also drive a hydraulic fluid pump configured to generate pressurized hydraulic fluids to energize various hydraulic components of the combine. 10.

[0016] Additionally, the harvester 10 may include various components for cutting, processing, cleaning, and unloading sugar cane as the cane is harvested from an agricultural field 20. For example, the harvester 10 may include a tip cutter assembly 22 positioned at its front end to intercept sugar cane as the combine 10 is moved in the forward direction. As shown, the tip cutter assembly 22 may include both a binder disc 24 and a cutting disc 26. The binder disc 24 may be configured to bind sugar cane stalks so that the cutter disc 26 can be used to cut the tip of each stem. As is generally understood, the height of the tip cutter assembly 22 may be adjustable by means of a pair of arms 28 hydraulically raised and lowered as desired by the operator.

[0017] Additionally, the harvester 10 may include a crop divider 30 that extends up and behind the field 20. In general, the crop divider 30 may include two helical feed rollers 32. Each feed roller 32 may include a soil shoe 34 at its lower end to assist the crop divider 30 in binding together the sugar cane stalks for harvesting. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 1, the harvester 10 may include a tipping roller 36 positioned near the front wheels 14 and a vane roller 38 positioned behind the tipping roller 36. As the tipping roller 36 is rotated, sugarcane stalks Sugar that is harvested is tumbled while the crop divider 30 gathers the stalks from the agricultural field 20. Additionally, as shown in Figure 1, the vane roller 38 may include a plurality of intermittently mounted vanes 40 that help to force the stalks. of sugar cane down. As the vane roller 38 is rotated during harvesting, sugar cane stalks that have been tipped by the tipper roller 36 are separated and further tipped by the vane roller 38 as the harvester 10 continues to be moved forward relative to the field 20.

[0018] Still referring to Figure 1, the harvester 10 may also include a base cutter assembly 42 positioned behind the vane roller 30. As is generally understood, the base cutter assembly 42 may include blades (not shown) for breaking sugar cane stalks as the cane is harvested. The blades, located on the periphery of assembly 42, can be rotated by a hydraulic motor energized by the vehicle's hydraulic system. Additionally, in many embodiments, the blades may be angled downward to break the base of the sugar cane as the cane is tumbled by the wing roller 30.

[0019] Furthermore, the harvester 10 may include a feed roller assembly 44 located downstream of the base cutter assembly 42 to move the broken stalks of sugar cane from the base cutter assembly 42 along the processing path. As shown in Figure 1, the feed roller assembly 44 may include a plurality of lower feed rollers 46 and a plurality of opposing upper feed rollers 48. The plurality of lower and upper feed rollers 46, 48 may be used to pinch the sugar cane harvested during transport. As sugar cane is conveyed through the feed roller assembly 44, debris (e.g., rocks, dust and/or the like) may be allowed to fall through the lower rollers 46 onto the field 20. In one embodiment, one or more Both arrangements of the feed rollers 46, 48 can be rotatably driven, for example, by a hydraulic motor energized by the vehicle's hydraulic system.

[0020] Additionally, the harvester 10 may include a chopper assembly 50 located at the downstream end of the feed roller assembly 44 (e.g., adjacent to the rearmost lower and upper feed rollers 46, 48). In general, the chopper assembly 50 can be used to cut or chop the severed stems of sugar cane into pieces or “fragments” that can, for example, measure 15.24 centimeters (six (6) inches). The fragments may then be propelled toward an elevator assembly 52 of the combine 10 for delivery to an external receiver or storage device (not shown). In one embodiment, the chopper assembly 50 may be rotatably driven, for example, by a hydraulic motor energized by the vehicle's hydraulic system.

[0021] As is generally understood, pieces of waste (e.g., dust, dirt, leaves, etc.) separated from the sugar cane billets can be expelled from the harvester 10 through a primary extractor 54, which is located behind the assembly of chopper 50 and is oriented to direct the residue out of the combine 10. Additionally, an extractor fan 56 may be mounted at the base of the primary extractor 54 to generate a suction force or vacuum sufficient to capture the residue 53 and force the residue 53 through the primary extractor 54. The separated and washed fragments 51, heavier than the waste 53 that are expelled from the extractor 54, may then fall downwards to the elevator assembly 52.

[0022] As shown in Figure 1, the elevator assembly 52 may generally include an elevator housing 58 and an elevator 60 that extends within the elevator housing 58 between a lower proximal end 62 and an upper distal end 64 In general, the elevator 60 may include a chain or loop member 66 and a plurality of belts or paddles 68 attached to and equally spaced therein by the loop member 66. The paddles 68 may be configured to retain the sugarcane fragments in the elevator 60 as the fragments are elevated along an upper span 70 of the elevator 60 defined between its proximal and distal ends 62, 64. Additionally, the elevator 60 may include lower and upper rotating members 72, 74 (e.g., upper and lower gears) positioned at its proximal and distal ends 62, 64, respectively. As shown in Figure 1, an elevator motor 76 may be coupled to one of the rotating members (e.g., the upper rotating member or gear 74) to drive the chain or loop member 66, and thereby allow the loop member to 66 and the blades 68 travel in an endless cycle between the proximal and distal ends 62, 64 of the elevator 60.

[0023] Furthermore, pieces of waste (e.g., dust, dirt, leaves, etc.) separated from the elevated sugar cane fragments can be expelled from the combine 10 through a secondary extractor 78 coupled to the rear end of the elevator housing 58 As shown in Figure 1, the secondary extractor 78 may be located adjacent to the distal end 64 of the elevator 60 and may be oriented to direct waste away from the combine 10. Additionally, an extractor fan 80 may be mounted on the base of the extractor. secondary extractor 78 to generate a suction or vacuum force sufficient to pick up the waste and force the waste through the secondary extractor 78. The clean and separated fragments, heavier than the waste expelled through the extractor 78, may then fall from the distal end 64 of the elevator 60. Typically, the fragments may fall downward through a discharge opening 82 of the elevator assembly 52 into an external storage device (not shown), such as a sugar cane fragment cart.

[0024] During operation, the harvester 10 is traveled throughout the agricultural field 20 to harvest sugar cane. After the height of the tip cutter assembly 22 is adjusted by means of the arms 28, the agglutinating disc 24 in the tip cutter assembly 22 may function to bind the sugar cane stalks as the harvester 10 proceeds through the field 20, while The cutter disc 26 breaks off the leafy ends of the sugar cane stalks to dump along each side of the combine 10. As the stalks enter the crop divider 30, the soil shoes 34 can set the operating width to determine the quantity of sugar cane entering the harvester throat 10. The helical feed rollers 32 then bunch the stalks in the throat to allow the tipping roller 36 to tilt the stalks downward in conjunction with the action of the vane roller 38. Since the stalks are positioned at an angle as shown in Figure 1, the base cutter assembly 42 can then break the base of the field stalks 20. The broken stalks are then, by movement of the combine 10, directed to the feed roller assembly. 44.

[0025] The broken sugar cane stalks are transported backwards by the lower and upper feed rollers 46, 48, which compress the stalks, make them more uniform and shake off the debris to pass through the lower rollers 46 to the field 20 At the downstream end of the feed roller assembly 44, the chopper assembly 50 cuts or chops the compressed sugar cane stalks into pieces or fragments (e.g., 15.24 centimeter (6 inch) sections of cane). The airborne residues or mills (e.g., dust, dirt, leaves, etc.) separated from the sugar cane fragments are then extracted through the primary extractor 54 using suction created by the extractor fan 56. The fragments separated/cleaned then fall down the elevator assembly 52 and travel upward through the elevator 60 from its proximal end 62 to its distal end 64. During normal operation, once the fragments reach the distal end 64 of the elevator 60 , the fragments fall through the discharge opening 82 into an external storage device. Similar to the primary extractor 54, the mill is blown from the combine 10 through the secondary extractor 78 with the help of the extractor fan 80.

[0026] Additionally, in accordance with aspects of the present invention, the elevator assembly 52 may also include a storage feeder 100 coupled to the elevator housing 58 at a location adjacent to the distal end 64 of the elevator 60 (e.g., at a location below elevator 60 and secondary extractor 78). As shown in Figure 1, the storage feeder 100 may be configured to at least partially define the discharge opening 82 of the elevator assembly 52. As will be described in greater detail below, the storage feeder 100 may include a feeder access 102 which is movable between an unloading position and a storage position. When the feeder access 102 is located in its discharge position, the combine 10 may be operated in its typical discharge mode (e.g., hereinafter referred to as its harvest discharge mode) in which the fragments expelled from the end distal 64 of elevator 60 fall through discharge opening 82 to an associated external storage device. However, when the feeder access 102 is located in its storage position, the feeder access 102 may cover or block the discharge opening 82 to prevent fragments from being discharged from the elevator assembly 52. In such a mode of operation, fragments expelled from the distal end 64 of elevator 60 may fall into a storage volume 104 defined by storage feeder 100 for temporary storage therein.

[0027] Furthermore, in many embodiments, the combine 10 may also include one or more crop flow sensors 204 configured to monitor one or more crop flow parameters of the combine 10. In general, the flow parameter (or parameters) of crop may correspond to any suitable operating parameter (or parameters) of the combine 10 that provides an indication of a crop mass flow or productivity of material harvested through the combine 10 or that may be correlated thereto. Therefore, the culture flow sensor (or sensors) 204 may generally correspond to any suitable sensor or sensing device that is configured to monitor a given culture flow parameter (or parameters). For example, the crop flow sensor (or sensors) 204 may correspond to one or more pressure sensors for monitoring a fluid pressure of hydraulic fluid supplied in a hydraulic circuit of the vehicle hydraulic system, one or more torque sensors for monitoring an operating torque of one or more rotating components of the combine 10, one or more position sensors for monitoring the relative position of one or more components that are configured to move with changes in crop mass flow, one or more yield sensors configured to directly or indirectly monitor crop productivity, and/or any other suitable sensors.

[0028] Additionally, as shown in Figure 1, the crop flow sensor (or sensors) 204 may be provided in operative association with any number of combine components and/or installed in any suitable location on the combine 10 and/or in relation to it. For example, as shown in the illustrated embodiment, one or more crop flow sensors 204 may be provided in operative association with one or more components of the vehicle feed train system, such as one or more components associated with the crop cutter assembly. base 42, the feed roller assembly 44 and/or the chopper assembly 50. Alternatively, the crop flow sensor(s) 204 may be provided in operative association with any other suitable components and/or installed in any other A suitable location that allows a crop flow parameter (or parameters) of the harvester 10 to be monitored, such as at a location in the elevator housing 58 of the elevator assembly 52.

[0029] Now referring to Figures 2 and 3, side views of a distal portion of the elevator assembly 52 shown in Figure 1 are illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present invention, which particularly illustrates the storage feeder 100 located adjacent to the end distal 64 of the elevator 60. Specifically, Figure 2 illustrates the feeder access 102 of the storage feeder 100 in its unloading position to allow the combine 10 to be operated in its harvest unloading mode. Similarly, Figure 3 illustrates the feeder access 102 of the storage feeder 100 in its discharge position to allow the combine 10 to be operated in its harvest discharge mode.

[0030] In many embodiments, the storage feeder 100 may be positioned at or adjacent to the distal end 64 of the elevator 60 so that fragments expelled from the elevator 60 at its distal end 64 fall downward into the storage feeder 100. For example 2 and 3, the storage feeder 100 may extend below the elevator housing 58 such that the feeder 100 includes a vertically spaced lower side 108 of the elevator housing 58 at a location below the distal end 64 of the elevator 60 and a rear side 110 (Figure 2) positioned below the secondary extractor 78.

[0031] In many embodiments, the storage feeder 100 may include a feeder access 102 movable along the bottom side 108 of the feeder 100 and a rear baffle 112 movable relative to the rear side 110 of the feeder 100. The storage feeder 100 may also include a pair of side walls 114 (only one of which is shown) that extend outward from the elevator housing 58 to the bottom and rear sides 110, 112 of the feeder 100. Additionally, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, The storage feeder 100 may include a front baffle 116 spaced in front of the rear side 110 of the feeder 100. In one embodiment, the discharge opening 82 of the elevator assembly 52 may be defined between the front baffle 116 and the rear baffle 112 at the along the bottom side 108 of the feeder 100.

[0032] As indicated above, the feeder access 102 can be configured to be moved between a discharge position (Figure 2) and a storage position (Figure 3). Additionally, in one embodiment, the rear deflector 112 may be movable between an open position (Figure 2) and a closed position (Figure 3). In many embodiments, when it is desired to operate the combine 10 in its crop unloading mode, the feeder access 102 can be moved to its unloading position while the rear deflector 112 can be moved to its open position. For example, as shown in Figure 2, when in the discharge position, the feeder access 102 may be moved away from the rear side 110 of the feeder 100 (e.g., in the direction of arrow 118) to expose the discharge opening 82 defined. along the bottom side 108 of the feeder 100 between the front and rear baffles 116, 112. Similarly, as shown in Figure 2, when in the open position, the rear baffle 112 can be rotated relative to its rear side 110 of the feeder 100 away from both the feeder access 102 and the front baffle 116 (e.g., in the direction of arrow 120) to increase the discharge opening 82. Therefore, the harvested crop expelled from the distal end 64 of the elevator 60 may fall through the discharge opening 82 and thus can be discharged from the elevator assembly 52.

[0033] Furthermore, when it is desired to operate the combine 10 in its harvest storage mode, the feeder access 102 can be moved to its storage position while the rear deflector 112 can be moved to its closed position. For example, as shown in Figure 3, when in the storage position, the feeder access 102 can be moved toward the rear side 110 of the feeder 100 (e.g., in the direction of arrow 122) to cover the discharge opening 82 defined along the lower side 108 of the feeder 100. Similarly, as shown in Figure 3, when in the closed position, the rear deflector 112 can be rotated relative to its rear side 110 of the feeder 100 either in the direction of access feeder access 102 and the front deflector 116 (e.g., in the direction of arrow 124) until the rear deflector 112 contacts the feeder access 102 or is otherwise positioned directly adjacent thereto. When the feeder access 102 and the rear baffle 112 are located in such positions, the storage feeder 100 may be configured to define a storage volume 104 for storing the harvested culture expelled from the distal end 64 of the elevator 60. Specifically, as shown in Figure 3, the volume of Storage 104 may extend between a front end 126 defined by front baffle 116 and a rear end 128 defined by rear baffle 112. Additionally, storage volume 104 may extend transversely between opposing side walls 114 of feeder 100 and vertical mode between the distal end 64 of the elevator 60 and the feeder access 102. Thus, harvested cultures expelled from the distal end 64 of the elevator 60 may fall to the bottom of the storage volume 104 defined by the feeder access 102 and accumulate in the volume of storage 104 between the front and rear baffles 116, 112 and the opposing side walls 114.

[0034] It should be appreciated that the storage volume 104 defined by the storage feeder 100 may generally correspond to any suitable volume sufficient to store a desired amount of fragments in the feeder 100. However, in many embodiments, the storage feeder 100 may be configured so that the storage volume 104 is substantially equal to the maximum storage volume defined by the upper span 70 of the elevator 60 (i.e., the upper side of the elevator 60 along which fragments are transported between the proximal and distal ends elevator 62, 64). As used herein, the storage volume 104 defined by the storage feeder 100 may be considered to be substantially equal to the maximum storage volume defined by the upper elevator shaft 70 if the storage volume 104 is within +/- 20% of the maximum storage volume defined by the upper elevator shaft 70, such as within +/- 10% of the maximum storage volume defined by the upper elevator shaft 70 or within +/- 5% of the maximum storage volume defined by the elevator shaft lift upper 70 and/or any other sub-ranges therebetween.

[0035] Additionally, it should be appreciated that, in other embodiments, the rear deflector 112 may not be movable, but instead may be fixed or stationary. In such embodiments, only the feeder access 102 can be configured to be moved to switch the operation of the combine 10 between its harvest unloading and storage modes. For example, when it is desired to operate the combine 10 in its harvest storage mode, the feeder access 102 may be moved towards the fixed rear deflector 112 to the storage position in which the feeder access 102 is in contact with the baffle 112 or is otherwise positioned directly adjacent thereto. Similarly, when it is desired to operate the combine 10 in its crop discharge mode, the feeder access 102 may be moved away from the rear deflector 112 to expose the discharge opening 82 of the elevator assembly 52.

[0036] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, in many embodiments, the elevator assembly 52 may include an access actuator 130 configured to move the feeder access 102 between its unloading and storage positions. In general, the access actuator 130 may correspond to any suitable actuation mechanism and/or device. For example, in one embodiment, the access actuator 140 may include a set of gears and racks for moving the feed access 102 between its discharge and storage positions. Specifically, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, feeder access 102 may include a rack 132 configured to engage a corresponding drive gear 134 coupled to a motor 136 (e.g., an electric motor or a hydraulic motor energized by the hydraulic system). of the vehicle). In such an embodiment, by rotatably driving the drive gear 134 in one direction or the other by means of the motor 136, the feeder access 102 can be linearly actuated between its discharge and storage positions (e.g., as indicated by arrows 118, 122). Alternatively, the access actuator 130 may correspond to any other suitable actuation mechanism and/or device, such as any other suitable linear actuator (e.g., a cylinder) and/or the like.

[0037] Additionally, in many embodiments, the elevator assembly 52 may include a deflector actuator 138 configured to move the rear deflector 112 between its open and closed positions. In general, the deflector actuator 138 may correspond to any suitable actuation mechanism and/or device. For example, in one embodiment, the baffle actuator 138 may correspond to a linear actuator, such as a fluid-driven cylinder actuator or an electrical actuator (e.g., a solenoid-activated actuator). Specifically, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, the deflector actuator 138 may be coupled to a portion of the elevator housing 58 and/or a portion of the secondary extractor 78 and may include a drive rod 140 attached to a portion of the rear deflector. 112. In such an embodiment, by linearly actuating the drive rod 140 in one direction or the other, the rear deflector 112 can be rotated relative to its rear side 110 of the feeder 100 between its open and closed positions. Alternatively, the deflector actuator 138 may correspond to any other suitable actuating mechanism and/or device, such as any other suitable linear actuator (e.g., a set of gears and racks) and/or the like.

[0038] It should be appreciated that, in many embodiments, the operation of the access actuator 130 and/or the deflector actuator 138 may be configured to be controlled electronically via a controller 202 of the combine 10. For example, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, the controller 202 may be communicatively coupled to the access actuator 130 and the deflector actuator 138 through one or more communicative links 144, such as a wired connection and/or wireless communication. In the case where the access actuator 130 and/or the deflector actuator 138 corresponds to a fluid-actuated component (or components), the controller 202 may instead be communicatively coupled to suitable electronically controlled valves and/or or other suitable fluid-related components to control the operation of the actuator (or actuators) 130, 138. Regardless, by providing the disclosed communicative links between the controller 202 and the actuators 130, 138, the controller 202 can be configured to control the operation of the actuators 130, 138 based on inputs received from the operator of the combine 10. For example, as will be described below, the controller 202 may be configured to receive operator inputs associated with the desired mode of operation for the combine 10. Specifically, The operator may provide an operator input that indicates the desire to switch operation of the combine 10 from the unloading harvest mode to the harvest storage mode. In such a case, the controller 202 may be configured to electronically control the operation of the actuators 130, 138 to move the feeder access 102 to its storage position and the rear deflector 112 to its closed position. Similarly, if the operator provides an operator input that indicates the desire to switch the operation of the combine 10 from the crop storage mode back to the crop unloading mode, the controller 202 can be configured to electronically control the operation of the actuators. 130, 138 to move the feeder access 102 to its discharge position and the rear deflector 112 to its open position.

[0039] Referring further to Figures 2 and 3, in many embodiments, a sealing device 150 may be provided at the upper end of the front deflector 112 to seal the space defined between the front deflector 116 and the blades 68 of the elevator 60 since the blades 68 are carried beyond the deflector 116. For example, in one embodiment, the sealing device 150 may correspond to a flexible sealing member, such as a brush seal or an elastic seal. In such an embodiment, the sealing device 150 may be configured to flex or tilt as the blades 68 are transported past the front baffle 116. By providing the sealing device 150, fragments stored in the storage volume 104 may be prevented. of the feeder 100 when the combine 10 operates in its crop storage mode fall onto the top of the front deflector 116 and/or are pulled back under the lower bay of the elevator 60 by means of the through blades 68.

[0040] Additionally, in many embodiments, the elevator assembly 52 may also include one or more fill level sensors 160 provided in operative association with the storage feeder 100. In general, the fill level sensor (or sensors) 160 may be configured to detect the fill level of fragments contained in the storage feeder 100. Accordingly, the fill level sensor (or sensors) 160 may generally be installed in the storage feeder 100 and/or relative thereto in any suitable location (or locations) that allows the sensor (or sensors) 160 to detect the filling level of fragments contained therein. For example, as shown in the illustrated embodiment, the fill level sensor (or sensors) 160 may be installed at or adjacent to the front end 126 of the storage feeder 100, such as by mounting a level sensor (or sensors) fill level sensor 160 on the inner side of the front baffle 116 or by mounting an array of fill level sensors 160 across the front baffle 116. However, in other embodiments, the fill level sensor (or sensors) 160 may be mounted at any other suitable location on and/or in relation to the storage feeder 100, such as by mounting a fill level sensor(s) 160 on the rear baffle 112, one or both side walls 114, and/or any other suitable component that allows the sensor (or sensors) 160 to detect the fill level of the fragments contained in the storage feeder 100.

[0041] It should be appreciated that any suitable number of fill level sensors 160 may be installed in relation to the storage feeder 100, such as a single fill level sensor 160 or two or more fill level sensors 160. Additionally , when the elevator assembly 52 includes two or more fill level sensors 160, the fill level sensors 160 may be configured to be supported by or installed on a common component or different components. For example, as indicated above, the elevator assembly 52 may include a fill level sensor array 160 mounted to a given component, such as the front baffle 116, the rear baffle 112, and/or one of the side walls 114. In the However, in other embodiments, distinct fill sensor(s) 160 may be installed relative to different components, such as by installing one or more fill level sensors 160 in the front baffle 116 and one or more other fill level sensors 160 level 160 in one or more other components, such as the rear baffle 112 and/or one or both side walls 114. Additionally, it should be appreciated that, when using multiple fill level sensors 160, the sensors 160 can be installed in the same relative height in storage feeder 100 or at different heights. For example, depending on the type of sensor that is used, it may be desirable to position each fill level sensor 160 at the same height on the storage feeder 100 so that each sensor 160 is configured to provide an indication as to when the fill level is reached. of fragments in the feeder 100 has reached or exceeded a given fill level threshold defined at the installation height of the sensors 160. Alternatively, the fill level sensors 160 can be positioned at different heights in the storage feeder 100 to allow each sensor 160 detect when the fragment fill level in feeder 100 has reached or exceeded a fill level threshold associated with that sensor 160, and thereby provides the ability to monitor the fragment fill level in relation to two or more fragment fill level thresholds. fill.

[0042] It should also be appreciated that the fill level sensor (or sensors) 160 may generally correspond to any suitable sensor (or sensors) capable of detecting the fill level of the fragments stored in the storage feeder 100. For example, in In one embodiment, the fill level sensor (or sensors) 160 may correspond to one or more contact sensors, such as one or more pressure sensors, load sensors and/or the like. In such an embodiment, the contact-based fill level sensor (or sensors) may be configured to be positioned in the storage feeder 100 at or adjacent to a fill level height (or heights) corresponding to a threshold ( or thresholds) of associated fill level, and thereby allows the sensor (or sensors) to provide an indication as to when the actual fill level of fragments in the storage feeder 100 has reached and/or exceeded such predetermined fill level threshold . In another embodiment, the fill level sensor (or sensors) 160 may correspond to one or more non-contact sensors, such as one or more optically based sensors (e.g., an IR beam sensor (or sensors), an camera (or cameras), a LIDAR sensor or other laser range finder sensor, one or more acoustic-based sensors (e.g., an ultrasonic sensor (or sensors), one or more radar sensors and/or the like. In such In this embodiment, the non-contact based fill level sensor (or sensors) may be positioned in the storage feeder 100 at any suitable location that allows the sensor (or sensors) to detect the fill level of the fragments relative to one or more more fill level thresholds.

[0043] As will be described in greater detail below, the fill level sensor (or sensors) 160 may be communicatively coupled to the associated system controller 202 (e.g., via a communicative link (or links) 144) , and thereby allows the controller 202 to receive data or sensor signals from the fill level sensor (or sensors) 160. Therefore, based on the data/signals received from the sensor (or sensors) 160, the controller 202 can determine when the fill level of the fragments in the storage feeder 100 has reached or exceeded a predetermined fill level threshold. For example, in one embodiment, a fill level threshold may be selected that is associated with a fill level height below the height at which the elevator 60 is capable of pulling fragments back under the lower span of the elevator 60 by middle of the through vanes 68, such as by selecting a fill level threshold that corresponds to a fill level height defined at or adjacent to the top of the front baffle 116. In such an embodiment, the fill level sensor (or sensors) 160 may serve to provide an indication that the fragment fill level has reached a height at which the elevator 60 is likely to soon begin pulling fragments back down. in its lower bay. Additionally, in response to determining that the fragment fill level has reached/exceeded the fill level threshold, the controller 202 may also be configured to initiate one or more related control actions, such as stopping or adjusting itself. the operation of the elevator 60, update a timing parameter associated with the operation of the combine 10 in its harvest storage mode, and/or initiate any other appropriate control action (or actions) (e.g., initiating vehicle-to-vehicle communications with a vehicle separate, such as an associated receiver).

[0044] Now referring to Figures 4 to 6, many views of an embodiment of a particular sensor configuration that can be used for one or more of the crop level sensors 160 described above with reference to Figures 2 and 3 are illustrated. in accordance with aspects of this subject. Specifically, Figures 4 to 6 illustrate an embodiment of a contact-based sensor configuration for a fill level sensor (or sensors) 160. However, in other embodiments, the fill level sensor (or sensors) disclosed 160 may have any other suitable sensor configuration, including any other suitable contact-based sensor configuration and/or any other suitable non-contact based sensor configuration.

[0045] As shown particularly in Figures 4 and 5, the fill level sensor 160 generally corresponds to a sensor assembly that includes a sensor housing 162 and a sensor element 164 configured to be coupled to the sensor housing 162 or another way supported by the same. Additionally, the fill level sensor 160 includes a cover plate 166 configured to extend over the sensor element 164 and at least partially cover the same. In this regard, the cover plate 166 may defend or otherwise protect the sensor element 164 from contact with the fragments so as to prevent the fragments from damaging the sensor element 164. As will be described in greater detail below, The sensor 160 can be configured to be installed relative to the storage feeder 100 so that an outer side 168 (Figure 5) of the cover plate 166 is exposed to fragments contained in the feeder 100. Therefore, when fragments begin to enter contact with the cover plate 166 or stack against it as the billets reach the fill level associated with the installation height of the sensor 160 in the feeder 100, an inner side 170 (Figure 5) of the cover plate 166 may be pressed or pushed to contact the sensor element 164. Based on such contact, the sensor element 164 may output a signal (or signals) that indicates that the fragment filling level has reached the installation height of the filling level sensor 160 on the storage feeder 100. Upon receipt of the signal (or signals), the associated controller 202 can then be configured to initiate an appropriate control action, such as stopping or adjusting the operation of the elevator 60, updating a timing parameter associated with operating the combine 10 in its crop storage mode and/or initiating any other suitable control action (or actions) (e.g., initiating vehicle-to-vehicle communications with a separate vehicle, such as a receiver associated).

[0046] In general, the sensor housing 162 may have any suitable configuration that allows it to function as described herein. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the sensor housing 162 may include or define various features for mounting the sensor 160 to the storage feeder 100 and/or for accommodating the sensor element 164 and/or the cover plate 166. For example, as shown particularly in Figure 5, the sensor housing 162 may define fastener openings 172 (only two of which are shown) at locations around its outer perimeter to receive mechanical fasteners (not shown) for coupling the housing 162 to the storage feeder. 100 and/or in relation thereto (e.g., to the front deflector 116). Additionally, as shown in Figure 5, a recessed area 174 may be defined relative to an external face 176 of the sensor housing 162 that is configured to receive the cover plate 166. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the recessed area 174 has generally square in shape to adjoin the shape of the cover plate 166. As will be described below, the sensor housing 162 may also include various other features for coupling the cover plate 166 to the housing 162 and/or for positioning the plate. of cover 166 relative to the sensor element 164, such as defining one or more pivoting openings 178 to receive corresponding pivoting beams 180 of the cover plate 166 and/or one or more flap openings 182 to receive corresponding flaps 184 of cover plate 166.

[0047] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 5, the sensor housing 162 may also include an opening 186 defined in the center of the recessed area 174 through which a portion of the sensor element 164 extends when the sensor element 164 is coupled. to or otherwise supported by housing 162. For example, as shown in the cross-sectional view of Figure 6, a portion of the sensor element 164 may extend through the opening 186 so that a sensor membrane or active pickup portion 188 of the sensor element 164 is positioned forward. of a lower surface 190 of the recessed area 174 of the sensor housing 162.

[0048] Further, referring to Figures 4 to 6, in many embodiments, the cover plate 166 may generally include a base plate 191 and a corresponding contact rib or boss 192 that extends outward from the base plate 191. As shown in Figure 5, in one embodiment, the base plate 191 may have a planar profile that defines a shape that is generally contiguous with the shape of the recessed area 174 of the sensor housing 162, and thereby allows the base 191 is received in the recessed area 174 when mounting the cover plate 166 relative to the sensor housing 162. Additionally, the contact boss 192 may generally be configured to extend from the base plate 191 so that when the base plate 191 base 191 is received in the recessed area 174, the boss 192 projects out of the recessed area 174 at least partially beyond the outer face 176 of the sensor housing 162. For example, as shown in the cross-sectional view of Figure 6, the boss contact point 192 extends from the base plate 191 such that an outer portion 193 of the boss 192 projects outwardly relative to the outer face 176 of the sensor housing 162 for a given lateral distance 194. In such an embodiment, ensuring that a portion of the contact boss 192 is exposed or otherwise projects to protrude relative to the outer face 176 of the sensor housing 162, the fragments may be configured to contact the boss 192 regardless of their orientation in the feeder. storage capacity 100, when the fill level of the fragments reaches the position of the fill level sensor 160, and thereby allows the fragments to activate or otherwise push the cover plate 166 into the sensor membrane or active pickup portion 188 and/or against it of the sensor element 164.

[0049] Additionally, as shown in Figure 5, the cover plate 166 may also include a pair of pivot beams 180 extending outwardly from opposite sides of the base plate 191 that are configured to be received in the beam openings. 178 (one of which is shown) defined in the sensor housing 162. For example, as shown in Figure 5, beam openings 178 are defined in the sensor housing 162 along the sides of the recessed area 174. Therefore, when installs the cover plate 166 relative to the sensor housing 162, the base plate 191 can be positioned in the recessed area 174 so that the pivot beams 180 are received in the pivot openings 178, and thereby allows the cover 166 rotates relative to both the sensor housing 162 and the sensor element 164 supported thereby. For example, as will be described below, a lower or bottom portion of the cover plate 166 may normally be angled away from both the bottom surface 190 of the recessed area 174 and the sensor element 164. However, when the fill level of fragments in the storage feeder 100 reaches the level of the sensor 160 so that one or more fragments make contact with the cover plate 166 or press against it (for example, by means of the contact shoulder 192), and thereby push the cover plate 166 towards both the lower surface 190 of the recessed area 174 and the sensor element 164 to allow the cover plate 166 to activate or trigger the sensor element 164.

[0050] Additionally, as shown in Figure 5, the cover plate 166 may also include a pair of tilt tabs 184 (only one of which is shown) extending from the inner side 170 of the plate 166 that are configured to receive into corresponding flap openings 182 (one of which is shown) defined in the sensor housing 162. As shown in Figure 5, the flap openings 182 are defined through the bottom surface 190 of the recessed area 174. Therefore, when the cover 166 is installed relative to the recessed area 174, the flaps 184 may extend through the flap openings 182 to the opposite side of the housing 162. Furthermore, as particularly shown in Figure 5, a tilt member 195 (e.g., a spring) may be configured to be received in each tab 184 so that the tilt member 195 is compressed between the cover plate 166 and the bottom surface 190 of the recessed area 174 of the sensor housing 162 when the tabs 184 are received in the openings. of flap 182. In such an embodiment, the tilting member 195 may apply a tilting force against the cover plate 166 that tilts the plate 166 away from both the bottom surface 190 of the recessed area 174 and the sensor element 164. As shown In Figure 5, to limit rotary movement of the cover plate 166 in such a direction, a stop flange 196 may be provided at the end of each flap 184 that is configured to catch a portion of the sensor housing 162 adjacent to each flap opening. 182. Thus, the tilting force applied via the tilting member 195 may serve to rotate the cover plate 166 away from both the bottom surface 190 of the recessed area 174 and the sensor element 164 to a given extent of rotation (e.g. example, less than 5 degrees) limited by the relative travel allowed between the tabs 184 and the sensor housing 162 by the associated interruption flanges 196.

[0051] As shown in the cross-sectional view of Figure 6, in one embodiment, the cover plate 166 may also include a sensor block 197 extending outwardly from its inner side 170 that is configured to contact the membrane. sensor element or sensor active portion 188 of the sensor element 164 when the cover plate 166 is rotated toward the sensor element 164 due to contact with fragments in the storage feeder 100. For example, in the absence of fragments, the sensor block sensor 197 may be configured to be separated from the active sensor portion 188 due to the tilting action of the tilt members 195. However, as one or more fragments make contact with the cover plate 166, the cover plate 166 may be rotated. inward towards the sensor element 164, and thereby pressing the sensor block 197 against the associated active sensor portion 188 of the sensor element 164. In one embodiment, the sensor block 197 may be formed from a relatively soft material (e.g., a soft rubber material) so as to prevent damage to the active sensor portion 188 with repeated contact between such components.

[0052] It should be appreciated that the sensor membrane or sensor active portion 188 of the sensor element 164 may generally correspond to any suitable pickup device that is configured to detect contact by the sensor block 197 as the cover plate 166 is rotated. toward the sensing element 164. For example, in one embodiment, the active sensing portion 188 may include or form part of a pressure sensing element that is configured to sense pressure applied against the sensing element 164 by means of contact by the sensor block 197. In another embodiment, the active sensor portion 188 may include or form part of any other suitable type of force or load-based sensor element (e.g., a load cell) or any other element of a suitable sensor that is configured to detect contact between the sensor element 164 and the sensor block 197.

[0053] It should also be appreciated that the sensor element 164 may include an output interface 198 that is configured to be communicatively coupled to the system controller 202 (e.g., via the wired or wireless link 144 shown in Figures 2 and 3). Therefore, when the sensor membrane or active sensor portion 188 detects contact between the cover plate 166 and the sensor element 164, the sensor element 164 may be configured to transmit suitable data and/or signals to the controller 202 indicative of such contact. The controller 202 may then utilize the sensor data/signals to determine when the fragment fill level in the storage feeder 100 has reached or exceeded the associated fill level threshold.

[0054] Now referring to Figure 7, an embodiment of a system 200 for detecting crop levels in integrated storage of an agricultural harvester is illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present invention. In general, the system 200 will be described herein with reference to the combine 10 described above with reference to Figures 1 to 3 and the fill level sensor 160 described above herein with reference to Figures 4 to 6. However, it should It will be appreciated that the disclosed system 200 can generally be used with combines having any other suitable configuration and/or with fill level sensors having any other suitable sensor configuration.

[0055] In many embodiments, the system 200 may include a controller 202 and various other components configured to be communicatively coupled to and/or controlled by the controller 202, such as one or more components for controlling the operating speed of the elevator 60 (e.g., the elevator motor 76), one or more components for actuating the feeder access and the rear deflector (e.g., the access actuator 130 and the deflector actuator 138), one or more sensors for monitoring one or more further operating parameters of the harvester 10 (e.g., the crop flow sensor (or sensors) 204 and/or the fill level sensor (or sensors) 160) and/or the like. As will be described in greater detail below, the controller 202 may be configured to control the operation of the combine 10 such that the combine 10 is normally operated in its crop discharge mode during which fragments are expelled from the distal end 64 of the elevator 60. fall through discharge opening 82 to an associated external storage device. However, upon receipt of an input (e.g., an operator input), the controller 202 may be configured to transition the combine to operation in its harvest storage mode during which the feeder access 102 is moved to its storage position and the rear baffle 112 is moved to its closed position to allow the fragments to be temporarily stored in the storage volume 104 defined by the storage feeder 100. Additionally, when transitioning to the harvest storage mode, the controller 202 may be configured to initially reduce the operating speed of the elevator 60. Thereafter, the controller 202 may, for example, be configured to actively adjust the elevator speed as desired or needed based on one or more flow parameters. of the harvester 10 to bring the elevator speed into contiguity with the current or instantaneous cross-mass flow or productivity of the combine 10, and thereby maximize the storage capacity in the elevator assembly 52 and the associated storage feeder 100 while preventing obstruction of the elevator 60. Furthermore, in one embodiment, when it is detected that the fill level of fragments in the storage feeder 100 has reached a given fill level threshold, the controller 202 may be configured to stop operation of the elevator 60 to prevent additional fragments from being discharged from the elevator 60 to the feeder 100.

[0056] In general, controller 202 may correspond to any suitable processor-based device (or any suitable processor-based devices), such as a computing device or any combination of computing devices. Thus, as shown in Figure 7, controller 202 may generally include one or more processor (or processors) 210 and associated memory devices 212 configured to perform a variety of computer-implemented functions (e.g., performing the methods , the steps, algorithms, calculations and the like disclosed in this document). As used herein, the term “processor” refers not only to integrated circuits referred to in the art as being included in a computer, but also refers to a controller, a microcontroller, a microcomputer, a programmable logic controller ( PLC), an application-specific integrated circuit and other programmable circuits. Additionally, memory 212 may generally comprise memory element (or elements) that includes, but is not limited to, computer-readable media (e.g., random access memory (RAM)), non-volatile computer-readable media (e.g., example, a fast memory), a floppy disk, a compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), a magnetic-optical disc (MOD), a digital versatile disc (DVD) and/or other suitable memory elements. Such memory 212 may generally be configured to store information accessible to the processor (or processors) 210, which includes data 214 that can be retrieved, manipulated, created and/or stored by the processor (or processors) 210 and instructions 216 that can be executed by the processor (or processors) 210.

[0057] In various embodiments, data 214 may be stored in one or more databases. For example, memory 212 may include a parameter database 218 for storing data associated with one or more monitored parameters of the combine 10, such as one or more crop flow parameters and/or the chip fill level in the feeder. of storage 100. As indicated above, the crop flow parameter (or parameters) may generally correspond to any suitable operating parameter of the combine 10 that provides an indication of or may otherwise be correlated to a crop mass flow or a productivity of the material harvested through the harvester 10, such as hydraulic pressure (or hydraulic pressures), operating torque (or torques), certain component position (or positions), yield data and/or the like. Thus, in many embodiments, sensor data associated with one or more such operating parameters may be stored in the crop flow parameter database 218.

[0058] As shown particularly in Figure 7, to allow the controller 202 to monitor the culture flow parameter (or parameters), the controller 202 may be communicatively coupled to one or more culture flow sensors 204. As indicated above, the culture flow sensor (or sensors) 204 may generally correspond to any suitable sensor or sensing device that is configured to monitor a given culture flow parameter (or parameters). For example, in one embodiment, the crop flow sensor (or sensors) 204 may correspond to one or more pressure sensors configured to monitor a fluid pressure of hydraulic fluid supplied to one or more hydraulic motors of the vehicle's hydraulic system through of an associated hydraulic circuit, such as the hydraulic circuit associated with the base cutter assembly 42, the feed roller assembly 44 and/or the chopper assembly 50. In another embodiment, the crop flow sensor (or sensors) 204 may correspond to one or more torque sensors configured to monitor an operating torque of one or more rotating components of the combine 10, such as the hydraulic motor (or motors) configured to rotatably drive the rotating blades of the base cutter assembly 42 , the rollers 46, 48 of the feed roller assembly 44 and/or the chopper assembly 50. In a further embodiment, the crop flow sensor (or sensors) 204 may correspond to one or more position sensors configured to monitor the relative position of one or more combine components whose position is dependent on the mass flow or crop productivity of the combine 10. In yet another embodiment, the crop flow sensor (or sensors) 204 may correspond to one or more sensors yield parameters configured to provide an indication of crop mass flow through the combine 10.

[0059] Still referring to Figure 7, in many embodiments, instructions 216 stored in memory 212 of controller 202 may be executed by processor (or processors) 210 to implement a harvest discharge module 220. In general, the harvest module crop unloading 220 may be configured to control the operation of the combine 10 such that the combine 10 is operated in its crop unloading mode. Specifically, in order to enable operation in crop unloading mode, the controller 202 may be configured to control the relevant components of the harvester 10 (e.g., the access actuator 130 and the deflector actuator 138) to ensure that crop access Feeder 102 and rear deflector 112 are moved to their associated discharge and open positions respectively (e.g., as shown in Figure 2), and thereby allow fragments expelled from the distal end 64 of elevator 60 to fall through the feeder 60. storage 100 and are discharged from the elevator assembly 52 through the discharge opening 82. The fragments discharged from the elevator assembly 52 may then fall into an external storage device, such as a sugar cane fragment cart. Furthermore, when operating in the crop unloading mode, the controller 202 may be configured to control the operation of the elevator 60 (e.g., by controlling the elevator motor 76) such that the elevator 60 is operated at a given elevator speed. As will be described below, the elevator speed for crop unload mode may be greater than the elevator speed used when operating in crop storage mode.

[0060] Additionally, as shown in Figure 6, instructions 216 stored in memory 212 of controller 202 may also be executed by processor (or processors) 210 to implement a harvest storage module 222. In general, the harvest storage module harvest 222 may be configured to control the operation of the combine 10 such that the combine 10 is operated in its harvest discharge mode. Specifically, in order to enable operation in the harvest storage mode, the controller 202 may be configured to control the relevant components of the harvester 10 (e.g., the access actuator 130 and the deflector actuator 138) to ensure that access of feeder 102 and rear baffle 112 be moved to their associated storage and closed positions, respectively (e.g., as shown in Figure 3) to cover or block discharge opening 82 of storage feeder 100, and thereby allow the fragments expelled from the distal end 64 of the elevator 60 are stored in the storage volume 104 defined by the storage feeder 100. Additionally, simultaneously with covering or blocking the discharge opening 82 (or immediately before or after such control action), the controller 202 may be configured to reduce the operating speed of the elevator 60. For example, when initiating harvest storage mode, the controller 202 may be configured to reduce the operating speed of the elevator from its normal operating speed to a speed setting of preset or predetermined standard elevator. This speed adjustment may, for example, correspond to a manufacturer-defined adjustment and/or an operator-defined adjustment. Additionally, the default speed setting may be adjusted, as desired or necessary, by the operator to fine-tune such default speed setting based on the anticipated or expected dumping rate of the combine 10.

[0061] It should be appreciated that, in one embodiment, the default speed setting may generally correspond to a given percentage of the normal operating speed for the elevator 60 during operation in the crop unloading mode. For example, in one embodiment, the default elevator speed setting for the crop storage mode may correspond to a speed that is less than about 75% of the normal operating speed of the elevator 60 during operation in the crop unloading mode. , such as a speed in the range of about 10% to about 50% of normal operating speed and/or a speed in the range of about 10% to about 25% of normal operating speed.

[0062] Once the operating speed of the elevator 60 has been reduced to the standard speed setting, the harvest storage module 222 can, in many embodiments, then be configured to continuously monitor the flow parameter (or parameters). crop level sensor (or sensors) 204) to detect changes in crop mass flow through the combine 10. Thereafter, the crop storage module 222 can be configured to actively adjust the operating speed of elevator 60 when it is determined that a change in culture mass flow has occurred. For example, if it is determined based on the monitored crop flow parameter (or parameters) that the crop mass flow through the combine 10 has increased, the crop storage module 222 can be configured to increase the operating speed of the elevator ( for example, through elevator motor control 76). Similarly, if it is determined based on the monitored crop flow parameter (or parameters) that the crop mass flow through the combine 10 has decreased, the crop storage module 222 may be configured to reduce the operating speed of the elevator 60 ( for example, through elevator motor control 76). In doing so, the magnitude of the elevator speed adjustment made by controller 202 may vary, for example, based on the magnitude of the change detected in the culture mass flow.

[0063] It should be appreciated that, in one embodiment, the harvest storage module 222 may be configured to initiate the transition between modes of operation when an operator input is received by the controller 202 that is associated with switching the operation of the combine. 10 from your crop discharge mode to your crop storage mode. For example, as indicated above, it may be desirable to operate the harvester 10 in its harvest storage mode when an associated external storage device is not properly positioned relative to the discharge opening 82 to collect the discharged cuttings, such as when rotating the fragment carts and/or when changing/resuming harvesting at the end of the row without the fragment cart being in position. In such a case (or cases), the operator may be permitted to provide a suitable operator input to the controller 202 that indicates the desire to switch an operation of the combine 10 to the harvest storage mode. For example, a suitable input device (e.g., a button, a knob, a lever, a switch, etc.) may be provided in the operator's cab 18 to allow the operator to provide operator input to the controller 202. Alternatively, the crop storage module 222 may be configured to initiate the transition between modes of operation when any other suitable input is received by the controller 202 that is associated with switching the operation of the combine 10 from its crop unloading mode to its harvest storage mode. For example, controller 202 may be configured to receive vehicle-to-vehicle communications indicating that the associated external storage device is close to exiting or otherwise not properly positioned relative to combine 10. In such a case, upon receipt From the input, the controller 202 can be configured to initiate the harvest storage mode of the combine.

[0064] It should also be appreciated that, in many embodiments, the harvest storage module 222 may be configured to continue operation of the elevator 60 at the reduced operating speed (or speeds) until it is detected that the fill level of the fragments in the storage feeder 100 has reached a given fill level threshold. For example, using the sensor configuration described above with reference to Figures 4 to 6, the fill level sensor 160 can be configured to transmit sensor data/signals to the harvest storage module 222 when the fill level of fragments reaches and exceeds the installation location of the sensor 160. In such a case, based on the sensor data/signals received from the fill level sensor 160, the harvest storage module 222 may determine that the fragment fill level reached a predetermined fill level threshold (e.g., an acceptable fill level before the fragments are drawn back down along the lower span of the elevator 60 by means of the through vanes 68). The harvest storage module 222 may then interrupt or stop the operation of the elevator 60 to prevent additional cuttings from being discharged into the storage feeder 100.

[0065] In another embodiment, the harvest storage module 222 may be configured to continue operation of the elevator 60 at the reduced operating speed (or speeds) for a predetermined period of time (e.g., a period of time during which it is anticipated that the elevator 60 will be moved a transport distance that corresponds to the distance of the upper elevator shaft). For example, in a particular embodiment, when operating in harvest storage mode, the elevator 60 may only be configured to be operated at the reduced operating speed (or speeds) for a given period of time during which the elevator 60 is moved. one half of its total travel distance (i.e., the transport distance defined along the upper span 70 of the elevator 60 between its proximal and distal ends 62, 64). In doing so, as the elevator 60 is moved such a transport distance, fragments initially contained in the upper elevator shaft 70 may be dumped into the storage volume 104 while concomitantly filling the blades 68 moving in the upper elevator shaft 70. up to its maximum filling level.

[0066] In such an embodiment, the harvest storage module 222 may be configured to utilize sensor data/signals received from the fill level sensor (or sensors) 160 to override or adjust such control mode. For example, if the harvest storage module 222 detects that the fragment fill level has reached or exceeded the fill level threshold before the period of time for which the elevator 60 must continue to operate expires, the harvest storage module harvest 222 may immediately stop operation of the elevator 60 despite any time remaining in the predetermined time period to prevent excessive cuttings from being discharged into the storage feeder 100. Similarly, if the predetermined time period is over, but the harvest storage module 222 has not yet detected that the fragment fill level has reached or exceeded the associated fill level threshold, the harvest storage module 222 may optionally continue operation of the elevator 60 until it is detected that the fill level threshold on storage feeder 100 was achieved.

[0067] In one embodiment, the harvest storage module 222 may also be configured to monitor the period of harvest time during which the elevator 60 is operated at its reduced speed in the harvest storage mode to allow the controller 202 update the predetermined period of time stored in the memory of the controller 212. For example, upon initiating the harvest storage mode, the controller 202 can be configured to start a timer that monitors the period of time until the event that the level of Fragment fill in storage feeder 100 reaches or exceeds the predetermined fill level threshold. This monitored harvest time period can then be used to update the predetermined time period, such as increasing the predetermined time period when the monitored time period exceeds the previously stored time period or decreasing the time period predetermined when the monitored time period is shorter than the previously stored time period. Furthermore, the monitored period of time may also be used in combination with data received from the crop flow sensor (or sensors) 204. For example, the controller 202 may be configured to store the monitored period of time in combination with the estimated or determined crop productivity based on the monitored crop flow parameter (or parameters) to create a look-up table that correlates crop productivity with the period of time to operate the elevator 60 during the harvest storage mode.

[0068] It should be appreciated that, when relying on sensor data from the fill level sensor (or sensors) 160 to detect the fill level of fragments in the storage feeder 100, the controller 202 can, in many embodiments, be configured to disregard or filter temporary and/or instantaneous signals received from the fill level sensor (or sensors) 160 that may be indicative of a fragment touching the sensor (or sensors) 160 or temporarily making contact with it before the actual level fragment fill reaches the associated fill level threshold. In such embodiments, the controller 202 may, for example, be configured to monitor and compare signals received from the fill level sensor (or sensors) 160 over time for the purpose of determining whether the fragment fill level has reached actually the predetermined fill level threshold. For example, if the sensor (or sensors) 160 is triggered continuously for a given period of time (e.g., 1 to 2 seconds) or otherwise detects fragments at the fill level threshold more than a given amount of times per such a period of time, the controller 202 may determine that it is likely that the sensor (or sensors) 160 have detected that the fragment fill level has reached the fill level threshold as opposed to detecting false triggers as the fragments detach or temporarily make contact with the sensor (or sensors) 160.

[0069] Furthermore, in one embodiment, after stopping operation of the elevator 60, the remainder of the combine 10 may be kept operational to allow harvested crops to be stored in a lower storage volume of the elevator assembly 52 for a period of time. predetermined. Specifically, upon interruption of the elevator 60, the harvester 10 may continue to be used to harvest sugar cane for a given period of time (e.g., three to ten seconds). In such a case, the harvested fragments may be stored in a lower storage feeder 152 (Figure 1) defined at or adjacent to the proximal end 62 of the elevator 60. Once the predetermined period of time has elapsed, operation of the combine 10 can be stopped. Specifically, upon continued operation of the combine 10 for the predetermined period of time after stopping the elevator 60, it can be assumed that the elevator assembly 52 is at maximum capacity. In such a case, the harvester 10 may be stopped to discontinue harvesting the sugar cane.

[0070] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 7, the controller 202 may also include a communications interface 224 to provide a means for the controller 202 to communicate with any of the various other system components described herein. For example, one or more communications links or interfaces 226, 144 (e.g., one or more data buses) may be provided between the communications interface 224 and the crop flow sensor(s) 204 and/or the fill level sensors (or sensors) 160) to allow the controller 202 to receive measurement signals from the sensor (or sensors) 204, 160. Similarly, one or more communicative links or interfaces 228 (e.g., one or more data buses ) may be provided between the communications interface 224 and the elevator motor 76 (and/or a related component configured to control operation of the motor 76, such as a related control valve) to enable operation of the elevator motor 76 is controlled by the controller 202. Additionally, as indicated above, one or more communications links or interfaces 144 (e.g., one or more data buses) may be provided between the communications interface 224 and both the access actuator 130 and the actuator of baffle 138 (and/or a related component (or related components) configured to control the operation of the actuator (or actuators) 130, 138, such as a related control valve (or valves)) to allow the operation of such components is controlled by controller 202.

[0071] Now referring to Figure 8, a flowchart of an embodiment of a method 300 for detecting crop levels in integrated storage of an agricultural harvester is illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present invention. In general, the method 300 will be described herein with reference to the embodiment of the combine 10 described above with reference to Figures 1 to 3, the embodiment of the fill level sensor 160 described above with reference to Figures 4 to 6, and the system 200 described above with reference to Figure 7. However, it should be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that the disclosed method 300 can generally be implemented with any combine having any suitable combine configuration, with any level sensor (or sensors). filler that has any suitable sensor configuration and/or in any system that has any suitable system configuration. Furthermore, although Figure 8 depicts steps performed in a particular order for purposes of illustration and discussion, the methods discussed herein are not limited to any particular order or arrangement. A person skilled in the art, using the disclosures provided herein, will appreciate that various steps of the methods disclosed herein may be omitted, rearranged, combined and/or adapted in various ways without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. .

[0072] As shown in Figure 8, at (302), method 300 may include initially operating the combine in a crop discharge mode so that harvested crops are transported from the proximal end of the elevator to the distal end of the elevator and subsequently discharged from the combine through a discharge opening defined by the storage feeder. Specifically, as indicated above, when operating in crop discharge mode, the feeder access 102 and the rear deflector 112 may be moved to their associated positions shown in Figure 2 (e.g., the discharge position and the open position, respectively). ) to allow fragments expelled from the distal end 64 of the elevator 60 to fall through the storage feeder 100 and be discharged from the elevator assembly 52 through the discharge opening 82. The fragments discharged from the elevator assembly 52 may then fall into a external storage device, such as a sugar cane shred cart.

[0073] Additionally, in (304), method 300 may include receiving an input associated with switching operation of the combine from its crop discharge mode to its crop storage mode. For example, as indicated above, it may be desirable to operate the harvester 10 in its harvest storage mode when an associated external storage device is not properly positioned relative to the discharge opening 82 to collect the discharged cuttings, such as when rotating the fragment carts and/or when changing/resuming harvesting at the end of the row without the fragment cart being in position. In such a case (or cases), the operator may be permitted to provide a suitable operator input to the controller 202 that indicates the desire to switch an operation of the combine 10 to the harvest storage mode. Alternatively, the controller 202 may be configured to detect that the associated external storage device is not properly positioned relative to the combine 10 based on any other suitable input (or inputs), such as based on inputs from a sensor configured to detect the position of the associated external storage device or inputs associated with vehicle-to-vehicle communications.

[0074] Furthermore, in (306), method 300 may include reducing an operating speed of the elevator upon receipt of input. As indicated above, when operating in harvest storage mode, controller 202 may be configured to reduce the operating speed of elevator 60 (e.g., by controlling elevator motor 76) from its normal operating speed to a reduced speed adjustment. In many embodiments, such default speed setting may correspond to a manufacturer-defined setting and/or an operator-defined setting and may be adjustable, as desired or needed, by the operator or automatically by the controller 202.

[0075] Still referring to Figure 8, at (308), method 300 may include blocking or covering the discharge opening defined by the storage feeder upon receipt of input. Specifically, in many embodiments, when operating the combine 10 in the harvest storage mode, the feeder access 102 may be configured to be moved to its storage position and the rear deflector 112 may be configured to be moved to its closed storage position. so that the storage feeder 100 defines a storage volume 104 to receive fragments expelled from the distal end 64 of the elevator 60. As indicated above, the controller 202 can be configured to automatically move the feeder access 102 and the rear deflector 112 to their respective positions upon receipt of input indicating that the combine 10 is to be operated in its harvest storage mode. Such control action may be performed simultaneously with reducing the operating speed of the elevator 60 or may occur immediately before or after adjusting the elevator speed.

[0076] Additionally, in (310), method 300 may include monitoring a fill level of crops harvested in the storage feeder relative to a predetermined fill level threshold as the elevator is operated at reduced operating speed. Specifically, as indicated above, controller 202 may be configured to monitor the fill level of fragments contained in storage feeder 100 relative to a predetermined fill level threshold via data/signals received from the storage feeder (or sensors). fill level 160. In such a case, when it is determined that the fragment fill level has reached and/or exceeded the associated fill level threshold, the controller 202 may be configured to initiate an appropriate control action, such as stopping it. operating the elevator 60 to prevent additional fragments from being discharged into the storage feeder and/or updating a predetermined time period associated with operating the elevator 60 in harvest storage mode.

[0077] It should be appreciated that the disclosed system/method may allow a combine 10 to be operated without unloading harvested crops for a significant period of time (e.g., fifteen to forty seconds depending on the productivity of the combine 10 and the extent/capacity of the elevator 60), and thereby provides sufficient time to allow an external storage device (e.g., a chip cart) to be positioned relative to the combine 10. In general, it is anticipated that the external storage device can be positioned appropriately relative to the harvester 10 before the fragment fill level in the storage feeder reaches the predetermined fill level threshold. Therefore, in most cases, it is believed that the operation of the combine 10 can be switched back to its collection discharge mode before the operation of the elevator 60 needs to be interrupted. However, in the event that the external storage device is not properly positioned relative to the harvester 10 before such a point, the harvest storage mode may be continued as described above, such as by stopping the elevator and continuing to operate the remainder of the combine to allow cuttings to be stored in the combine's lower storage feeder for a given period of time.

[0078] It should also be appreciated that, although the disclosed fill level sensor (or sensors) 160 have generally been described herein in association with operating a combine 10 in its harvest storage mode, the data/signals from the Fill level sensor (or sensors) 160 may also be used when operating the combine 10 in its crop unloading mode. Specifically, the fill level sensor (or sensors) 160 may be used to detect when fragments have begun to retreat into the storage feeder 100 although the feeder access 102 and rear deflector 112 are moved to their associated discharge and open positions. respectively to allow fragments to be discharged from the feeder 100. For example, Figure 9 illustrates another view of the distal portion of the elevator assembly 52 shown in Figures 2 and 3, which particularly illustrates the distal portion of the elevator assembly 52 that rests on a portion of an external receiver or storage device 400 as the harvester 10 is operated in its crop discharge mode so that fragments 402 are discharged from the feeder 100 into the external storage device 400. As shown in Figure 9, when the harvesting device external storage 400 is at or near maximum capacity and the distal portion of the elevator assembly 52 rests or is supported on the storage device 400, fragments 402 may begin to stack in the storage feeder 100 as additional fragments are unloaded from the distal end. 64 of the elevator 60. In such a case, the fill level sensor (or sensors) 160 may detect that the fragments 402 have begun to back up in the feeder 100. The controller 202 may then initiate an appropriate control action to prevent additional fragments from piling up. on feeder 100. For example, in one embodiment, controller 202 may be configured to interrupt or stop operation of elevator 60. In another embodiment, controller 202 may be configured to transmit a communication (or communications) to the vehicle that tows the external storage device 400 (e.g., via vehicle-to-vehicle communications) indicating that the storage device 400 is full and that the storage device 400 should be taken to be unloaded. In such an embodiment, upon transmission of such communication (or communications) or upon detection that the storage device 400 is no longer properly positioned relative to the combine 10, the controller 202 may be configured to transition the combine 10 to its storage mode. crop storage to allow the combine 10 to continue harvesting until another external storage device 400 has been positioned relative to the combine 10.

[0079] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, which includes the best mode, and also to enable the person skilled in the art to practice the invention, which includes making and using any devices or systems and carrying out any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to fall within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with non-substantial differences from the literal language of the claims.

Claims (13)

1. SYSTEM (200) FOR DETECTING CROP LEVELS IN INTEGRATED STORAGE OF AN AGRICULTURAL SUGAR CANE HARVESTER (10) wherein the system (200) comprises an elevator (60) extending between a proximal end (62) and a distal end (64), the elevator being configured to transport harvested cultures between its proximal (62) and distal ends (64), wherein the system (200) additionally comprises a storage feeder (100) positioned adjacent the distal end (64) of the elevator (60), wherein the storage feeder (100) defines a storage volume (104) configured to receive harvested cultures discharged from the distal end (64) of the elevator (60), being that the system (200) further comprises: a fill level sensor (160) provided in operative association with the storage feeder (100), the fill level sensor (160) being configured to detect a fill level of harvested crops contained in the storage volume (104) of the storage feeder (100), wherein the fill level sensor (160) comprises a contact sensor characterized by the fact that the fill level sensor (160) comprises a sensor element (164) and a cover plate (166) configured to at least partially cover the sensor element (164), the sensor element (164) emitting a signal associated with the fill level of the harvested crops contained therein. in the storage volume (104) when the cover plate (166) is pushed against the sensor element (164) through contact with the harvested crop. 2. SYSTEM (200), according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the fill level sensor (160) further comprises a sensor housing (162) configured to support the sensor element (164), wherein the cover plate (166) is rotatably coupled to the sensor housing (162) so that the cover plate (166) is rotatable towards and away from the sensor element (164). 3. SYSTEM (200), according to claim 2, characterized by the fact that the fill level sensor (160) further comprises a tilt member (195) configured to tilt the cover plate (166) to away from the sensor element (164), the cover plate (166) being configured to rotate towards the sensor element (164) against the inclination of the tilt member (195) upon contact of the harvested crop against the sensor plate (164). coverage (166). 4. SYSTEM (200), according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the fill level sensor (160) comprises a non-contact sensor. 5. SYSTEM (300), according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by the fact that it additionally comprises a controller (202) communicatively coupled to the fill level sensor (160), the controller being (202) is configured to determine when the fill level of harvested crops contained in the storage feeder (100) reaches or exceeds a predetermined fill level threshold based on at least one signal received from the fill level sensor (160). . 6. SYSTEM (200), according to claim 5, characterized by the fact that the controller (202) is configured to interrupt the operation of the elevator (60) when the controller (202) determines that the fill level of the harvested crops reached or exceeded the predetermined fill level threshold. 7. SYSTEM (200), according to claim 5, characterized by the fact that the controller (202) is configured to control an operation of the elevator (60) as the combine (10) is operated in a harvest storage mode during which the harvested cultures expelled from the distal end (64) of the elevator (60) are maintained in the storage volume (104) of the storage feeder (100) without being unloaded therefrom, the controller (202) being additionally configured to determine a defined actual harvest time period between when the harvest storage mode is initiated and when the fill level of the harvested crops reaches or exceeds the predetermined fill level threshold. 8. SYSTEM (200), according to claim 7, characterized by the fact that the controller (202) is configured to update a predetermined period of time associated with operating the elevator (60) during the crop storage mode based on in the actual harvest time period. 9. SYSTEM (200), according to claim 5, characterized by the fact that the controller (202) is configured to transmit a notification that indicates that an external storage device (400) is at or close to capacity when the controller (202) determines that the fill level of harvested crops has reached or exceeded the predetermined fill level threshold. 10. METHOD (300) FOR DETECTING CROP LEVELS IN INTEGRATED STORAGE OF AN AGRICULTURAL SUGAR CANE HARVESTER (10), wherein the harvester (10) comprises an elevator assembly (58) that includes an elevator (60) that extends between a proximal end (62) and a distal end (64), wherein the elevator assembly (58) additionally includes a storage feeder (100) positioned adjacent to the distal end (64) of the elevator (60), wherein The method (300) initially comprises operating the harvester (10) in a crop discharge mode so that harvested crops are transported from the proximal end (62) of the elevator (60) to the distal end (64) of the elevator (60). and subsequently discharged from the combine (10) through a discharge opening (82) defined by the storage feeder (100), the method (200) further comprising, upon receiving an input associated with operating the combine (10) in a crop storage mode, reduce an operating speed of the elevator (60) and block the discharge opening (82) defined by the storage feeder (100) so that harvested crops expelled from the distal end (64) of the elevator (60 ) are stored in a storage volume (104) of the storage feeder (100), the method (200) being characterized by comprising: monitoring a filling level of the harvested crops in the storage feeder (100) in relation to a predetermined fill level threshold as the elevator (60) is operated at reduced operating speed. 11. METHOD (300), according to claim 10, characterized by the fact that, additionally, it comprises stopping the operation of the elevator (60) when it is determined that the fill level has reached or exceeded the predetermined fill level threshold. 12. METHOD (300), according to claim 10, characterized by the fact that, additionally, it comprises adjusting a predetermined period of time associated with the operation of the elevator (60) in the harvest storage mode when it is determined that the level of fill has reached or exceeded the predetermined fill level threshold. 13. METHOD (300), according to claim 10, characterized by the fact that monitoring the fill level of harvested crops comprises receiving data or sensor signals from a fill level sensor (160) provided in operative association with the storage feeder (100).