BRPI0504922B1 - reversibly harvesting equipment. - Google Patents

Description

"REVERSIBLE CANE HARVESTING EQUIPMENT"

This report refers to a patent for a sugarcane harvesting equipment, in particular for harvesting unburned upright or standing sugarcane for harvesting from both sides, left and right.

Traditionally the sugarcane harvesting method provides for the burning of sugarcane and its subsequent manual harvesting. Burning sugar cane has the benefit of removing the straw and leaves from the plantation, leaving only the stems or stalks of the plants that are most easily harvested. Another benefit in burning is the elimination of venomous animals such as snakes, spiders, scorpions, which are a risk to workers.

However, the process of burning sugar cane damages sugar quality and productivity due to the evaporation of part of the water inside the stems. Burning also has negative impacts on the environment due to the generation of carbon dioxide and soot. In this sense, Brazilian and international environmental laws mandate an increasing reduction in burnt sugarcane harvesting areas. In the not too distant future the burnings could be completely abolished.

Also, with burning, all the organic matter of the leaves and straw that could be decomposed in the crop itself is lost, improving the soil quality, reducing the need for fertilization, and contributing positively to soil conservation and erosion reduction. .

However, manually harvesting unburned green sugar cane is a risky operation due to venomous animals and low productivity. The cost of manually harvesting green sugar cane can be five times higher than the harvest of burnt sugarcane.

The mechanized harvesting of sugarcane is not new, dating back several decades. There are basically two basic types of sugarcane harvesting equipment: those that harvest whole cane and those that harvest chopped cane.

Those who harvest the entire sugarcane try to reproduce the manual harvesting process of cutting the intera sugarcane close to the ground in the knuckle and then removing the pointer from the plant, or the upper part of the plant, where there is large leaf quantity and low sugar concentration. Later the stems are stacked crosswise from the streets or rows of the crop so that other equipment can pick them up and place them in a truck or trailer for transport to the plant. In equipment operating in this manner, it is common to remove the pointer before the base cut (stem cut near the root, root), and before the sugar cane enters the equipment.

Equipment operating in accordance with this principle is illustrated in US2,427,313, US2,669,829, US 3,090,183, US4,165,596, US4,232,755, US4,380,281, US4,483,130, US5,303,533 and US5,379,577.

This type of equipment has the disadvantage of being poorly productive in the harvest of unburned sugar cane due to the presence of straw and leaves. Thus, they are little used.

The second group of harvesting equipment, which harvests the sugarcane stings, very common in the state of the art and widely used today, briefly operates as follows: first the plant pointer is cut, then the plant is tilted forward as the equipment walks over the planting line, the base is cut, the stem is cut to the ground, the sugar cane is pulled from its base into the equipment, then the stem is cut or chopped into 25cm to 35cm pieces, called stalks, along with sugarcane leaves and straws; then chopped straws and leaves are separated from the stem pieces by a forced air stream promoted by one or more blowers; the straws are discarded in the crop and the pieces of stem are sent to a transport vehicle that walks alongside or behind the equipment. GB1.259.845, US3.373.774, US3.828.536, US3.950.924, GB1.475.673, CU20.646, US4.008.557, US4.019.308, US4.035.996, US4.070.809, US4.194.344, US4,196,569, US4,426,826, US 4,677,813, among others, present sugarcane harvesting equipment that basically follows the same principle.

Other patents are found in the state of the art, introducing improvements and improvements to equipment parts, but the working principle is maintained.

This type of equipment has some drawbacks, and among them we highlight:

(a) when the sugar cane is pulled into the equipment, its entire length, as well as straw and leaves, necessarily pass close to the ground slightly above the base cut; It happens that the base cutting operation lifts a lot of soil from the soil, soiling all the sugar cane, straw and leaves; this mineral contamination will need to be removed later at the beneficiation plant;

(b) the devices used for base cutting are

basically one or two spinning disks at high speed on which sharp knives are attached. Due to the operating position, practically inside the soil, the soil particles added to the cut sugarcane juice promote an accelerated wear of the knife cutting edge, requiring its constant replacement, sometimes daily. This operation considerably decreases the productivity of the equipment.

c) due to the high mineral contamination that the soil particles entering the equipment contribute considerably

for wear on the inner parts, especially the chopper roller knives, which cut the stem into stalks.

d) the equipment present in the state of the art has fixed wheel gauge, as the cultivation can present variations of distances between the planting lines, it is common that the equipment passes

over the brassicas, roots, of the plants, harming the regrowth.

e) Current equipment has limited operation on inclined terrain. Given the limitations of the equipment, currently in Brazil, 70% of the planted area allows mechanization, leaving 30% of the area that requires manual harvesting.

Find more mechanized harvesting methods

efficient and to develop equipment with less limitations to sloping land is a pressing necessity for sugarcane cultivation in Brazil and worldwide.

Accordingly, the present invention aims to provide sugarcane harvesting equipment in which the sugarcane is harvested in an upright position and is not exposed to the soiled area close to the ground, reducing mineral contamination.

Another object of the present invention is to provide sugarcane harvesting equipment that can harvest unburnt green cane as well as burnt sugarcane. Another object of the present invention is to provide a sugarcane harvesting equipment which cuts the longer life stalks and which cuts the sugarcane even in an upright position.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a sugar cane harvesting equipment having a basic cutting device which has a longer service life.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a sugarcane harvesting equipment having means that prevent passage over the brass knuckles.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a

reversible sugarcane harvesting equipment that can harvest and discharge sugarcane harvested from both the left and right sides of the equipment.

Finally, it is an object of the present invention to provide sugarcane harvesting equipment that can harvest on more steep terrain.

These and other objects and advantages of the present invention are achieved with equipment operating in eight basic phases, the first phase being the cutting of the sugarcane pointer; the second phase, the vertical alignment of the plants; the third phase, cutting the stems with the plant in an upright position, performed by several vertically aligned stem cutters; the fourth phase, the ground sugarcane base cut, performed by the base cutter; the fifth stage, the transport of stalks, along with chopped leaves and straws, to the next stage; the sixth stage, primary cleaning, with the separation of chopped leaves and stalks from the stems by means of a forced draft; the seventh phase, the transport of the stems by an elevator conveyor to the next phase; and finally the eighth phase, secondary cleaning, with the remaining loose leaves and straws being separated by a forced draft from a blower, the heavier stalks being thrown into the reservoir of a carrier vehicle. The leaves and straw removed are left in the field.

Sugar cane harvesting equipment consists of one or more pointer cutters, two or more lifter rollers, six or more stem cutters, one base cutter, one or more conveyors, fans, a right and left reversible lift conveyor, chassis, wheel and tire, main engine, cab, fairing, main engine power to wheel, fuel tank, hydraulic oil tank, cooling radiators, front and rear axles and control means of steering, positioning, tilting, alignment and control of equipment functions.

Since the pointer cutter is formed by a disk with sharp blades that rotates along its vertical axis at high speed, cutting the tip of the plants. The lifter rollers are made up of tapered rollers with metal spiral strings that rotate relative to the plants, positioning them properly.

The stem cutters, which can take various constructive forms, are vertically aligned and cut the stem of the sugar cane into a vertical or slightly inclined stalk. The base cutter, which can have various constructive shapes, cuts the base of the plants at about the same time as the stems cut. Conveyors consist of belts, or chains with lanyards, which carry the stems and cut leaves internally to the equipment for the primary cleaning step.

Primary cleaning occurs when the stalks and leaves are thrown through a forced air stream generated by fans. The lighter leaves are dragged through the air and the heavier stalks flow through the airstream over the underside of the elevator conveyor.

The conveyor belt-shaped conveyor or chain with slings has a horizontal bottom that collects the stems and a long sloping portion that transports the stems to their highest part, where secondary cleaning occurs.

Secondary cleaning, located at the high end of the elevator conveyor, occurs when the stalks and chopped leaves are thrown against an upward and cross forced air stream generated by a blower. The lighter chopped leaves and straws are dragged by the forced draft. The stems, which are heavier, cross the forced air stream falling into the carrier vehicle reservoir.

The elevator conveyor is segmented and its parts can be properly positioned in relation to the equipment and the conveyor vehicle.

The axes of the equipment have mechanisms that allow to vary the gauge and to vary their inclination in relation to the equipment.

The novel character of the present invention is related to the harvesting and cutting of sugar cane performed with the plant standing, without the need to tip the plant and subject it to soil contamination, besides the mechanisms of stability improvement for Sloping terrain and gauge adjustment.

Due to the fact that the plant enters the standing equipment, the mineral contamination and its problems are minimized. Also for this fact the effort to tip the plant forward is eliminated, reducing the power consumption in the equipment displacement, making the equipment more economical.

Thatched and base cutting systems, consisting of innovative solutions and suitable materials, have a longer service life than traditional systems.

The wheel gauge adjustment avoids passing over the brass knuckles, allowing you to reap plantings with different row spacings. In addition, operating with larger gauges the equipment enables harvesting on slopes.

The tilt correction of the equipment in relation to the ground strongly favors its balance and stability, allowing it to work in more inclined terrain.

Additionally, sugarcane having less mineral contamination reduces cleaning costs at the processing plant and increases the efficiency of the operation.

In the following the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, given by way of example without limitation, in which:

Figure 1 shows a left side elevation schematic view of the sugar cane harvesting equipment, object of the present invention, highlighting its principle of operation.

Figure 2 shows a schematic right side elevation view of the sugar cane harvesting equipment, object of the present invention, highlighting its principle of operation. Figure 3 shows a schematic front elevation view of the sugar cane harvesting equipment object of the present invention in the harvesting process.

Figure 4 shows a schematic rear elevation view of the sugar cane harvesting equipment object of the present invention in the harvesting process.

Figure 5 shows a schematic top view of part of the equipment, highlighting the sugarcane stem cutter, consisting of oscillating triangular knives.

Figure 6 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the sugarcane stem cutter consisting of oscillating triangular knives.

Figure 7 shows a schematic top view of part of the equipment, highlighting a sugarcane stalk cutter with a pair of rotating stars that directs the sugarcane stalks for cutting.

Figure 8 shows a schematic top view of part of the equipment, highlighting a cane stalk cutter

sugar, endowed with a pair of straps with taliscas, which direct the sugarcane stalks for cutting.

Figure 9 shows a schematic side view of the sugarcane stalk cutter having a pair of

Taliscal straps that direct the sugar cane stems to the cut.

Figure 10 shows a schematic top view of part of the equipment, highlighting the sugarcane stem cutter, consisting of handwheels and band saw or band blade. Figure 11 shows a schematic front elevation view of part of the equipment, highlighting the sugarcane stem cutter, consisting of handwheels and band saw or band blade.

Figure 12 shows a schematic top view of part of the equipment, highlighting the sugarcane stem cutter consisting of trailing stars and fixed blades.

Figure 13 shows a schematic top view of part of the equipment, highlighting the sugarcane stem cutter, consisting of pairs of stars that rotate concentric to one axis in the same direction and at different speeds.

Figure 14 shows a schematic top view of part of the equipment, highlighting the sugarcane stem cutter, consisting of triangular knives mounted on rotating discs, and bulkheads present on other discs, which rotate concentric to the first in same direction but at lower speed.

Figure 15 shows a schematic top view of part of the equipment, highlighting the base cutter of the sugar cane, consisting of a pair of diamond edge cutting discs.

Figure 16 shows a schematic side elevational view of part of the equipment, highlighting the sugar cane base cutting device, consisting of a pair of diamond-edged cutting discs.

Figure 17 shows a bottom view of the basic sugarcane cutter made of diamond-rimmed disc segments. Figure 18 shows a section of the sugarcane base cutting device, consisting of diamond-rimmed disc segments, highlighting the shape of the segments attachment.

Figure 19 shows a schematic top view of part of the equipment, highlighting the base cutter of the sugarcane, consisting of oscillating triangular knives.

Figure 20 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the basic sugarcane cutter made of oscillating triangular knives.

Figure 21 shows a schematic top view of part of the equipment, highlighting the base cutting device, consisting of triangular knives mounted on rotating discs, and stars with screens, which rotate concentricly to the discs in the same direction but at a lower speed.

Figure 22 shows a schematic front elevation view of the sugarcane harvester object of the present invention operating on a sloping ground, highlighting the front axle and elevator conveyor tilt correction mechanisms, and the front axle tilt correction.

Figure 23 shows a schematic rear elevation view of the sugar cane harvesting equipment object of the present invention operating on a sloping ground, highlighting the tilt and swing correction mechanisms of the elevator conveyor.

Figure 24 shows a schematic rear view of the sugar cane harvesting equipment object of the present invention operating on a sloping ground, highlighting the transverse tilt movement of the rear axle. Figure 25 shows a schematic side elevational view of a constructive variant of the sugar cane harvesting equipment object of the present invention which maintains the same principle of operation.

Figure 26 shows a partial and schematic view in

rear elevation of the rear axle of the sugar cane harvesting equipment, which allows the distance between the rear wheels to be varied.

Figure 27 shows a partial and schematic top view of the rear axle of the sugarcane harvester, highlighting the axle shafts that make up the rear axle which allows the distance between the rear wheels to be varied.

Figure 28 shows a partial and schematic top view of the rear axle of the sugarcane harvester highlighting the displacement of the right rear wheel.

Figure 29 shows a top and schematic view.

rear axle of the sugarcane harvester, highlighting the displacement of the left rear wheel.

According to figures 1, 2, 3 and 4, the principle of operation of the sugar cane harvesting equipment is based on eight basic phases, the first phase (F1) characterized by the cutting of the sugarcane pointer. -sugar, that is, from the highest part of the plant, where there is a large amount of green leaves, and where the sugar concentration is lower. Given the low concentration of sugar and the large amount of leaves, this part is removed by means of a pointer cutter (1) and discarded in the field.

The second phase (F2) is characterized by raising the

plants inclined to or near the upright position by means of lifting rollers (2) before cutting. The third phase (F3), or stalk cutting, is characterized by the cutting of the plant, stem and leaves into smaller parts of the order of 230mm to 350mm, called stalks. This phase occurs when the plant is upright, standing, or slightly inclined, being carried out by the various vertically aligned or slightly inclined stem cutters (4). Depending on the characteristics of the planting, dragging devices (not shown) direct and press the stems and leaves of the plant against the various stem cutters (4).

The fourth phase (F4), or base cut, is characterized by the cut of the plant stem at its base close to the ground, performed by the base cutter (5). As the base of the plant is the highest sugar concentration, the base cutter should cut between 10mm to 20mm above ground level. The basic cut (F4) can occur simultaneously, slightly ahead or slightly delayed in relation to the cut of the stems (F3) depending on the sugarcane and planting characteristics.

The fifth phase (F5) is characterized by the transport of stalks, along with chopped leaves and straws, to the primary cleaning phase (F6). This transport is performed by one or more carriers (6).

The sixth phase (F6), or primary cleaning, is characterized by the separation of leaves and chopped straws from the stems. This cleaning is performed by a forced air stream (7) generated by one or more fans (8) with sufficient energy to drag lighter leaves and straws and let the heavier stalks pass through. Leaves and straws removed in primary cleaning (F6) are discarded in the field.

The seventh phase, or culm elevation (F7), characterized

by transporting the culms by an elevator conveyor (9) to a higher part, where the eighth phase (F8) occurs, or secondary cleaning. In secondary cleaning (F8) the remaining leaves and straws are extracted by a forced air stream (10) generated by a fan (11), with sufficient energy to drag the lighter leaves and straws and let the stalks pass, which are more heavy. Leaves and straws removed in secondary cleaning (F8) are discarded in the field. The heavier culms are thrown into the tank of a carrier vehicle (12)

According to figures 1, 2, 3, 4 and 22, the sugar cane harvesting equipment is composed of one or more pointer cutters (1), two or more hoisting rollers (2), of six or more stem cutters (4), a base cutter (5) of one or more conveyors (6), one or more primary cleaning fans (8), a reversible elevator conveyor (9) between the right sides and left, a secondary cleaning fan (11). It is also composed of a chassis (13), front right (14dd) and front left (14de) wheels, rear right (14td) and rear left (14te) wheels and tires, a main engine (15), cab (16), fairing (17), main engine power transmission means to drive wheels, fuel tank, hydraulic oil tank, cooling radiator, two-axle front (17dd) and (17de) supporting the right (14dd) and left (14de) front wheels, a rear axle (18) supporting the right (14td) and left rear (14te) rear wheels, and steering means, alignment and other equipment functions.

According to figures 1 and 2, the pointer cutter (1) is formed by a blade with sharp blades that rotates along its vertical axis at high speed, driven by the motor (19), cutting the tips of the plants. The disc and motor are supported by the base (20). Support bars 21a and 21b connect base 20 to the front frame of the apparatus. The position actuator (22) is hydraulically connected to the control valves, which are electrically connected to the control module (23) in an arrangement that allows actuating the position actuator (22) and adjusting the cutting height of the hands relative to the ground. Raising rollers (2) are made up of tapered rollers with spiral metal cords. Positioned at an angle to the plants, they rotate driven by the hydraulic motors (25). The hydraulic motors (25) are hydraulically connected to the control valves, which are electrically connected to the control module (23), in an arrangement that allows the hydraulic motors to be driven (25) and varying rotation speed of each roller. . The lifting rollers (2) are supported to the front of the equipment so that their lower part slides over the ground.

Still according to figures 1 and 2 the cutters of

culms (4) are aligned vertically, or slightly inclined towards the interior of the equipment. Guides and actuators (not shown) allow you to zoom in and out of the stem cutters to fit the desired size of the stems.

From Figures 5 and 6, the cutters are

made up of triangular blades (27) fixed to a sliding guide (28), which oscillates transversely, movement (M1), towards the direction of travel (SC) of the equipment and between the inner walls of the equipment (29), promoting the cutting of the plants counter trim fingers (30) which are fixed fixed to a fixed guide (31) which in turn is fixed to the structure of the equipment. The drive mechanism (not shown), which promotes oscillatory movement (M1) to the sliding ruler (28), is controlled by the control module (23), allowing the variation of the oscillation speed as a function of the walking speed of the equipment and of plant and planting characteristics.

According to FIG. 7, trailing devices consisting of pairs of stars (125d) and (125e) mounted on rotating vertical axes (126d) and (126e) direct and push the plant stems (Cp) against the cutters. culms (4). The drive mechanisms (not shown), which promote the rotation of the vertical axes (126d) and (126e) are controlled by the control module (23), allowing the variation of the rotation speed synchronously to the walking speed of the equipment.

According to Figures 8 and 9, in a more elaborate constructive alternative, plant stem dragging devices (Cp) are made of smooth or taliscus pairs of belts, chains or belts (130d) and (130e). that direct and push the plant stems (Cp) against the stalk cutters (4). The belts, chains, or belts 130d and 130e are mounted on drive rollers 131d and 131e and driven rollers 132d, 132e, 133d, 133e, and 134d. The drive rollers (131d) (131e) being driven by motors (135d) (135e). Driven rollers (132d) (32d) (133d) (133e) are mounted on pivot arms (136d) (136e) (137d) (137e) provided with springs (138) to hold them tensioned against tracks, chains or belts. (130d) and (130e). The driven rollers (134d) (134e) are mounted on spring-loaded sliding bearings (139), which maintain stretches of belts, chains or belts (130d) and (130e). Motors 135d 135e are controlled by the control module 23 so that the belts, chains or belts 130d and 130e have speeds synchronized with the walking speed of the equipment.

According to figures 10 and 11, the stalk cutters, in a constructive variant, are in pairs constituted by band saws (32) which slide transversely to the direction of travel (SC) of the equipment and between the inner walls of the equipment (29). ), supported by pairs of handwheels (33), cutting the stem of the plant against trimmer fingers (30) of the guide (31) that is fixed to the structure of the equipment. The flywheels are driven individually or in groups by hydraulic motors (34), hydraulically connected to the control valves, which are electrically connected to the control module (23), in an arrangement that allows to drive and vary the peripheral speed of the band saws. according to the walking speed of the equipment and the characteristics of the plants and planting. In a constructive variant of this arrangement, the band saws may be replaced by toothless band blades. In this case self-sharpening devices consisting of abrasive wheels (35) may be included for the purpose of continuously sharpening the tape blade, ensuring a long service life for stems.

According to Figure 12, the stem cutters, in a constructive variant, are made up of star discs (36) which rotate by embracing the plant stems and leading them to one or more fixed blades or passive blades (37). ), fixed between the inner walls of the equipment (29). The star discs are driven individually or in groups by hydraulic motors (not shown), which in turn are hydraulically connected to the control valves, which are electrically connected to the control module (23), in an arrangement that allows to drive and varying speed of the star discs (36) as a function of the walking speed of the equipment. In a constructive variant of this arrangement, the star discs can be used to press the plant stems against the band saws, aiding the stem cutting process. Star discs and passive blade can take other shapes and positions without losing their working principle

According to Figure 13, the stalk cutters, in another embodiment, are comprised of lower rotating star discs (120d) (120e) and higher star discs (121d) (121e) which rotate with angular velocity (V2) always greater than velocity (V1), so that the plant stems are cut between the cutting wires (122) and (123). The lower star discs (120d) (120e) are driven individually or in groups by hydraulic motors (not shown), which in turn are hydraulically connected to the control valves, which are electrically connected to the control module (23). in an arrangement that allows the speed (V1) to be proportional to the walking speed of the equipment. The upper star discs (121d) (121e) are synchronously driven by motors (not shown), which controlled by the control module (23), allow to adjust the rotational speeds (V2) as a function of the walking speed of the equipment and of plant and planting characteristics.

According to Figure 14, the stalk cutters, in another constructional variant, are made up of blades (38) attached to the rotary discs (39), installed near the inner sides of the equipment (29), whose blades (38) cut the blades. stems against protruding bulkheads of the star discs (40), which rotate concentric to the spinning discs (39), in the same direction but at a slower speed. The star discs 40 are driven individually or in groups so that their rotational speed is proportional to the advance speed of the equipment. The rotary discs (39) are driven individually or in groups by hydraulic motors (not shown), which in turn are hydraulically connected to the control valves, which are electrically connected to the control module (23), in an arrangement that It allows to activate and vary the rotational speed of the rotary disks (39) according to the equipment walking speed, the characteristics of the plants and the planting. In constructive embodiments of this arrangement, the rotary blades 39 and blades 38 may be replaced by circular saw blades or blades with smooth and sharp edges. In the latter, self-sharpening devices consisting of abrasive grinding wheels can be added to sharpen the blade continuously, guaranteeing a long life to the cutters.

In either of the constructive alternatives, the set of

Thatch cutters are supported by mechanisms (not shown) that allow you to adjust your height relative to the ground.

According to Figures 15 and 16, the base cutter (5) is made up of a pair of opposing rotating metal discs (52) to which diamond cutting discs (53) are attached. Diamond blades feature high wear resistance, giving the base cutting system a longer service life than traditional systems.

According to figures 17 and 18, in a constructional variant of the base cutter (5) it is constituted by a pair of metal discs (52), rotating in opposite directions, in which segments of diamond cutting discs (105) are fixed. . The diamond cutting disc segments (105) have projections (106) and notches (107) which allow mounting side by side. They also have folds (108) that allow snap-in mounting between the metal discs (52) and the mounting plates (109). Snap-in mounting allows a single disc segment (105) to be quickly replaced by loosening the retaining bolts (110) and pulling the retaining plate (109) apart. As the bolts (110) do not need to be removed, their possible loss in the agricultural field is avoided.

In a constructive variant, as illustrated in figures 19

and 20, the base cut can be performed, similar to the stem cut, by triangular blades (27) attached to sliding guides (28), which swing (M1), in opposite directions, transversely to the direction of travel (SC) of the equipment, on a fixed guide (31), between the inner walls of the equipment (29), promoting the cutting of the stems blade against blade. The drive mechanisms (not shown), which promote the oscillatory movements (M1) to the sliding guides (28), are controlled by the control module (23), allowing the variation of the oscillation speed as a function of the walking speed of the equipment and of plant and planting characteristics. Working at slower speeds than traditional knife blades, the swinging blade base cutter features less wear and longer life.

According to Figure 21, in another embodiment, the base cutters (5) consist of blades (115) attached to rotating discs (116). These blades (115) cut the stems against protruding bulkheads of the star discs (117), which rotate concentric to the spinning discs (116), in the same direction but at a slower speed. Star discs 117 are synchronously driven by mechanisms (not shown) with rotational speed proportional to the advancing speed of the equipment. The rotating discs (116) with blades (115) are synchronously driven by motors (not shown), which controlled by the control module (23), allow to adjust the rotational speed according to the equipment's walking speed and characteristics. of plants and planting.

In either construction alternative, the base cutter (5) has mechanisms (not shown) for adjusting the height of the cut in relation to the ground.

Returning to figures 1 and 2, the conveyors 6 are constituted by tracks, or chains with slings, which have at their upper ends driving rollers and at their lower ends moved rollers, and guides on the sides. Conveyors (6), in number of one or more, collect the stalks and chopped leaves on their front and transport them inside the equipment, raising them to their upper end for the primary cleaning phase (F6).

At the upper and rear end of the conveyors (6), a forced air stream (7) generated by one or more fans (8) is directed transversely, crosswise and upwardly to the exit and fall direction of the chopped stalks and leaves. This forced air stream (7) has sufficient energy to drag the chopped leaves and straws toward the straw outlet (41) located at the rear of the machine and directed toward the rear of the machine. The heavier culms cross the forced air stream (7) falling over the bottom of the elevator conveyor (9). According to Figures 1, 2, 3 and 4, the elevator conveyor (9) has a conveyor belt, or sling chains, supported by side guides, a drive roller at the upper end, which pulls the conveyor belt and a roller. When moved at the lower end, the conveyor returns to the bottom of the conveyor. The elevator conveyor (9) has at its bottom a collecting bucket (42) which collects the stalks after primary cleaning (F6). The long inclined portion of the elevator conveyor (9) carries the culms to its high end, from where they are thrown into the reservoir of the conveyor vehicle (12).

At the high end of the elevator conveyor (9), a forced air stream (10) is generated by a fan (11) in a transverse, upward and downward direction towards the culm exit and fall. The remaining leaves and chopped straws are dragged by the forced air stream (10). A deflector (59) directs the flow of chopped leaves and straws so that they do not fall on the carrier vehicle. The heavier stalks cross the forced air stream (10) falling into the carrier vehicle reservoir (12). A baffle (55) further directs the stem flow direction, allowing them to be distributed in the carrier vehicle reservoir (12).

The elevator conveyor (9) is attached at its bottom to the rotary base (61) by means of the horizontal pivot (62), and joined at its intermediate part to one end of the tilt actuator (63), which by In turn it is joined at its other end to the pivot (65), which in turn is attached to the upper part of the fairing (17). The tilt actuator (63) is hydraulically connected to the control valves (not shown), which are electrically connected to the control module (23), in an arrangement that allows the inclination of the elevator conveyor (9) relative to the equipment. The rotating base (61) is attached to the rear and bottom end of the chassis (13) by means of the vertical hinge (67), which in turn is aligned horizontally with the center line of the equipment and vertically aligned with the pivot (65). The rotating base (61) is also connected to the chassis (13) by two rotary actuators, one on the right side (66d) and one on the left side (66e). Rotation actuators (66d) and (66e) are hydraulically connected to the control valves (not shown), which are electrically connected to the control module (23), in an arrangement that allows the elevator conveyor (9) to rotate relative to the shaft. articulation (67), and making it possible to rotate the elevator conveyor (9) from the right side to the left side of the equipment and vice versa.

According to figures 1, 2, 3 and 4, the elevator conveyor (9) has one or more articulations (43) and position actuators (44), which are hydraulically connected to the control valves, which in turn are electrically connected to the control module (23), in an arrangement that allows the actuating position actuators (44) to be adjusted and the inclination of each conveyor segment, improving control of the discharge point and also contributing to the stability of the equipment in operation on sloping ground.

According to figures 1, 2 and 22, the equipment has

two front half axles, one right (17dd) and one left (17de), which support the right front (14dd) and left front (14de) wheels respectively. Each front half axle 17dd and 17de is supported to the front end of the bar 80d and 80e, which in turn is pivotally supported at its rear end to the support 81d and 81e. ). Each bracket 81d and 81e is fixed to the lower end of the vertical axis 68d and 69e, which in turn are mounted internally to the bearing 69d and 69e, which in turn is fixed. to the chassis (13). At the upper end of each vertical axis (68d) and (68e) is mounted a steering mechanism consisting of the steering arm and the steering actuator (50d) and (50e). Steering actuators (50d) and (50e) are hydraulically connected to control valves (not shown), which in turn are electrically connected to the steering module in cab (16), in an arrangement that allows them to be synchronously actuated allowing turn the front wheels (14dd) and (14de) and steer the equipment through the ground.

Pivotally connecting the front end of the bar 80d and 80e to the approximately central position of the bracket 81d and 81e, there is an actuator 82d and 82e respectively. Each actuator (82d) and (82e) is hydraulically connected to the control valves (not shown), which in turn are electrically connected to the control module (23), in an arrangement that allows the actuator to be actuated and the height of each wheel to be adjusted. (14dd) and (14de) relative to the chassis of the equipment. This height adjustment of each front wheel allows you to lift or lower the front of the equipment from the ground, and also to correct the inclination of the equipment from the ground as shown in figure 22.

According to figure 24, the equipment has a rear axle (18), which supports the right rear (14td) and left rear (14te) wheels that have traction systems. The rear axle (18) has a pivot (83) aligned with the equipment centerline that allows the rear axle to tilt to the chassis (13). Correcting the transverse tilt correction of the equipment in relation to the ground contributes positively to the improvement of stability in sloping harvesting operations.

Given the possibility of equipment tilt correction in relation to the ground, the base cutting system (5) has mechanisms (not shown) that accompany the transverse tilt movement, making the base cutter (5) follow the terrain slope. According to Figure 25, the reversible sugar cane harvesting equipment object of the present invention may take other constructive forms, varying the number and type of fans, the number of conveyor types, the position and types of axles. , wheels and tires, the replacement of tires and wheels by tracks, the position of the cab, the shape of the fairing and chassis, without, however, departing from the operating principles presented here.

According to figures 26 to 29, the reversible sugar cane equipment can also have a constructional variant with a rear axle that allows the distance between the rear wheels to be varied. In this variant, the rear axle (18) is subdivided into two axle shafts one to support the right rear wheel (14td) and the other to the left rear wheel (14t). Each rear axle shaft has an outer portion 85d and 85e and an inner portion 86d and 86e and is slidable relative to the outer portion 85d and 85e. The axle shafts are joined laterally to each other by their outer parts 85d and 85e and are supported to the chassis 13 in their central part by the hinge 83.

The travel between the outer parts 85d and 85e and the inner parts 86d and 86e of the rear axle shafts is provided by travel actuators 87d and 87e which are hydraulically connected to the control valves. which, in turn, are electrically connected to the control module (23). This arrangement allows to change the rear gauge (Bt) through the right (Cd) and left (Ce) wheel openings individually. Adjusting the rear gauge (Bt) allows better positioning of the rear wheels in relation to the rows between the planting. Adjusting the rear right (Cd) and rear left (Ce) wheel opening positively contributes to improved equipment stability on slopes.

The equipment is further equipped with a main engine (15), oil pumps and power transmission and control means for the drive wheels (14td) and (14te) and for driving all present systems.

In the operator's cabin (16) are all control panels for the equipment controls. The fairing (17), besides sheltering the components of the weather, protects the people involved in the harvest from the risk of accidents.

Also present (but not shown) is a fuel tank, a hydraulic oil tank, a hydraulic oil cooling radiator, a main engine cooling water cooling radiator, and other complementary elements, all of the state of the art, required for smooth operation of the equipment.

Although a preferred constructive concept has been described and illustrated, it should be noted that design changes may be conceived without departing from the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, this invention is intended to encompass all such changes, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

Claims (17)

1.- "REVERSIBLE CANE HARVESTING EQUIPMENT" composed of pointer cutters (1), lifting rollers (2), chassis (13), wheels and tires (14), main engine (15), cab ( 16), control module (23) and control panel (24), fairing (17), means of transmission and control of the main engine power to the wheels (14), fuel tank, fuel tank hydraulic oil, cooling radiators, oil pumps, transmission means and main engine power control (15) for the systems and devices present and characterized by having eight operating phases, the first being the cutting of the pointer ( F1) sugarcane, the second phase the positioning and survey of the plants (F2), the third phase the stalk cutting (F3), the fourth phase the base cut (F4), the fifth phase the stem transport (F5), the sixth phase the primary cleaning (F6), the seventh phase the stem elevation (F7), the eighth phase the secondary cleaning ia (F8); that the sugarcane stalk cutting stage (F3) occurs with the plant in an upright or slightly inclined position and is carried out by several stalk cutters (4) positioned horizontally and transversely to the walking direction (SC) of the equipment; that the stem cutters (4) are approximately vertically aligned and in number proportional to the desired stem size; the stem cutters (4) are supported by actuator guides (not shown) which allow the stem cutters (4) to be brought in and out to adjust the size of the stem; stem cutting (F3) can occur with the aid of dragging devices (not shown) which direct and press the stems and leaves of the plant against the various stem cutters (4); for the base cut (F4) to be performed by the base cutter (5) with the plant in an upright position and approximately simultaneous to the stem cut (F3); the base cutter (5) is installed between the inner sides of the equipment and below the stalk cutters (4) and has mechanisms (not shown) for adjusting the height of the cut from the ground; the base cutter (5) has transverse tilt adjustment mechanisms (not shown) with respect to the chassis (13); that stem conveyor (F5) is carried out by culm conveyors (6), consisting of talented tracks or chains and provided with drive rollers and driven rollers and side guides; from the lower end of the stalk transporters (6) collect the stalks and chopped leaves and straws by the stalk cutters (4) and lift them inside the equipment until primary cleaning (F6); primary cleaning (F6) is located at the top and rear of the stem carriers (6), where a forced air stream (7) generated by one or more fans (8) is directed transverse, crosswise and upwardly to the sense of exit and fall of stalks, leaves and chopped straws; that the forced air stream (7) has sufficient energy to drag the chopped leaves and straws towards the straw outlet (41) located at the rear of the equipment, and the heavier stems cross the forced air stream ( 7) falling over the bottom of the elevator conveyor (9); the lifting of the stems (F7) is performed by the elevator conveyor (9), consisting of belt or chains with slings, supported by side guides; the elevator conveyor (9) is attached at its bottom to the rotary base (61) by means of the horizontal pivot (62), and is joined at its intermediate part to one end of the tilt actuator (63); the tilt actuator (63) is articulated at its other end to the pivot (65), which is in turn attached to the upper part of the fairing (17); the tilt actuator (63) is hydraulically connected to the control valves (not shown), which are electrically connected to the control module (23), in an arrangement that allows the inclination of the elevator conveyor (9) relative to the equipment; the rotating base (61) is attached to the rear and bottom end of the chassis (13) by means of the vertical hinge (67), horizontally aligned to the center line of the equipment and vertically aligned to the pivot (65); the rotary base (61) is further connected to the chassis (13) by two rotary actuators, one right (66d) and one left (66e); rotation actuators (66d) and (66e) are hydraulically connected to the control valves (not shown), which are electrically connected to the control module (23), in an arrangement that allows the elevator conveyor (9) to rotate relative to the vertical axis of the joint (67) from the right to the left side of the equipment and vice versa; the elevator conveyor (9) has a drive roller at its upper end that pulls the belt and at its lower end a moved roller that promotes the return of the belt from the lower to the upper conveyor; The elevator conveyor (9) has a sloping lower end provided with a collecting bucket (42) which collects the stalks after primary cleaning (F6) and a long sloping portion which transports and lifts the stalks to its upper end. and from the stem; the elevator conveyor (9) is segmented into jointed parts (43) and provided with position actuators (44) hydraulically connected to the control valves, which are electrically connected to the control module (23), in an arrangement that allows to adjust the inclination of each conveyor segment; the secondary cleaning (F8) is located at the upper end of the elevator conveyor (9), and separates the chopped straws and leaves from the stems; secondary cleaning (F8) occurs by the action of the forced air flow (10) generated by the fan (11), of transverse direction, crosswise and upward to the exit and fall direction of the stems; chopped leaves and straws, dragged by the forced air stream (10) in the secondary cleaning (F8), are thrown into the field, and the stalks cross the forced air stream (10) and are thrown into the carrier vehicle reservoir (12). ); by the deflector (59) directing the flow of chopped leaves and straws so that they do not fall on the carrier vehicle, and the deflector (55) directing the stem flow direction at the exit of the elevator conveyor (9) so that they fall inside the tank of the carrier vehicle (12); it has two front half axles, one right (17dd) and one left (17de), which support the right front (14dd) and left front (14de) wheels respectively; that each front half axle (17dd) and (17de) is supported at the front end of the bar (80d) and (80e), which in turn is pivotally supported at its rear end, the lower rear end of the support (81d). ) and (81e); each bracket 81d and 81e is fixed at its lower front and upper end to the lower end of the vertical axis 68d and 69e, which in turn is mounted internally to the bearing 69d and 69e. ), which in turn is attached to the chassis (13); having at the upper end of each vertical axis (68d) and (68e) a steering mechanism consisting of steering arm and steering actuator (50d) and (50e); steering actuators (50d) and (50e) are hydraulically connected to control valves (not shown), which in turn are electrically connected to the steering module in cab (16), in an arrangement that enables steering actuators ( 50d) and (50e) and synchronously rotate the front wheels (14dd) and (14de) directing the ride of the equipment through the ground; having pivotally connected actuators 82d and 82e between the front end of the bars 80d and 80e and the approximately central positions of the holders 81d and 81e respectively; each actuator (82d) and (82e) is hydraulically connected to the control valves (not shown), which in turn are electrically connected to the control module (23), in an arrangement that allows each actuator (82d) to be individually actuated and (82e) and adjust the height of each front wheel (14dd) and (14de) relative to the chassis (13); having a rear axle (18) supporting the right rear (14td) and left rear (14te) wheels that have drive systems; the rear axle (18) is pivotally connected at its center to the chassis (13) by means of the pivot (83); the base cutting system (5) has transverse tilt correction mechanisms (not shown). 2. A "REVERSIBLE CANE HARVESTING EQUIPMENT" according to claim 1 and characterized in that the stalk cutters consist of triangular blades (27) attached to a sliding guide (28), which oscillates transversely, movement (M1) in the direction the walkway (SC) of the equipment and between the inner walls of the equipment (29); by cutting the plants occur between the cutting edge of the blades and trimmed against trimmer fingers (30), which are attached to the fixed guide (31), which in turn is attached to the equipment structure; The drive mechanism (not shown), which promotes the oscillatory movement (M1) to the slide rule (28), is controlled by the control module (23), allowing the variation of the oscillation speed as a function of the walking speed of the equipment and of plant and planting characteristics. 3. A "REVERSIBLE CANE HARVESTING EQUIPMENT" according to claim 1 and characterized in that the stalk cutters, in a constructive variant, consist of band saws (32) which slide transversely to the direction of travel (SC) of the equipment and between the inner walls of the equipment (29), supported by pairs of handwheels (33); the stem of the plant is supported by the trimmer fingers (30), which are attached to the fixed guide (31), which in turn attached to the equipment structure; the flywheels are driven individually or in groups by hydraulic motors (34), hydraulically connected to the control valves, which are electrically connected to the control module (23), in an arrangement that allows driving and varying the feed rate of the saws. tape as a function of the walking speed of the equipment and the characteristics of the plants and planting. 4.- "REVERSIBLE CANE HARVESTING EQUIPMENT" according to claim 1 and characterized in that the stem cutters, in a constructive variant, consist of ribbon blades (32) which slide transversely to the direction of travel (SC) of the equipment and between the inner walls of the equipment (29), supported by pairs of handwheels (33); the stem of the plant is supported by the trimmer fingers (30), which are attached to the fixed guide (31), which in turn attached to the equipment structure; the flywheels are driven individually, or in groups, by hydraulic motors (34), hydraulically connected to the control valves, which are electrically connected to the control module (23), in an arrangement that allows driving and varying the blade advance speed tape as a function of the walking speed of the equipment and the characteristics of the plants and planting; by allowing the installation of blade sharpening devices consisting of abrasive wheels (35) that touch the blade occasionally or continuously. 5. A "REVERSIBLE CANE HARVESTING EQUIPMENT" according to claim 1 and characterized in that the stem cutters, in a constructional variant, consist of star discs (36) which rotate leading the stems of the plants towards one or more passive blades. (37), fixed between the inner sides (29) of the equipment; star discs (36) are driven individually or in groups by hydraulic motors (not shown), which in turn are hydraulically connected to the control valves, which are electrically connected to the control module (23), in an arrangement that enables and varying speed of the star discs (36) as a function of the walking speed of the equipment. 6.- "REVERSIBLE CANE HARVESTING EQUIPMENT" according to claim 1 and characterized in that the stem cutters, in a constructive variant, consist of lower rotating star discs (120d) (120e) and speed discs (V1) and discs. upper stars (121d) (121e), which rotate with angular velocity (V2) always greater than velocity (V1) and that stem cutting is carried out between cutting wires (122) and (123); the lower star discs (120d) (120e) are driven individually or in groups by hydraulic motors (not shown), which in turn are controlled by the control module (23) in an arrangement that allows speed (V1) be proportional to the walking speed of the equipment; The top star discs 121d and 121e are synchronously driven by motors (not shown), which are controlled by the control module 23 in an arrangement that allows speed (V2) to be a function of the walking speed of the equipment and of plant and planting characteristics. 7. A "REVERSIBLE CANE HARVESTING EQUIPMENT" according to claim 1 and characterized in that the stem cutters, in a constructive variant, consist of star discs (36) which rotate leading the stems of the plants towards the band saws, which they slide transversely to the direction of travel (SC) of the equipment and between the inner walls of the equipment (29) supported by pairs of handwheels (33); the stem of the plant is supported by the trimmer fingers (30), which are attached to the fixed guide (31), which in turn attached to the equipment structure; the flywheels are driven individually or in groups by hydraulic motors (34), hydraulically connected to the control valves, which are electrically connected to the control module (23), in an arrangement that allows driving and varying the feed rate of the saws. ribbon; star discs (36) are driven individually or in groups by hydraulic motors (not shown), which in turn are hydraulically connected to the control valves, which are electrically connected to the control module (23), in an arrangement that enables and varying speed of star discs (36). 8.- "REVERSIBLE CANE HARVESTING EQUIPMENT" according to claim 1 and characterized in that the stalk cutters, in another constructional variant, consist of blades (38) attached to rotating discs (39), installed between the inner sides of the equipment. (29) whose blades (38) cut the stems against protruding bulkheads of the star discs (40), which rotate concentricly with the discs with blades, in the same direction but at a slower speed; the star discs (40) are driven individually or in groups, so that their rotation speed is proportional to the advance speed of the equipment; the rotating discs (39) with blades (38) are driven individually or in groups by hydraulic motors (not shown), which in turn are hydraulically connected to the control valves, which are electrically connected to the control module (23). , in an arrangement that allows to drive and vary the rotational speed of the spinning disks (39) as a function of the walking speed of the equipment, the characteristics of the plants and the planting. 9.- "REVERSIBLE CANE HARVESTING EQUIPMENT" according to claim 1 and characterized in that the stem cutters, in another constructional variant, consist of rotating discs (39) with saw-toothed edges, installed between the inner sides of the stem. equipment (29), whose saw teeth cut the stems against protruding bulkheads of the star discs (40), which rotate concentric to the blade discs in the same direction but at a slower speed; the star discs (40) are driven individually or in groups, so that their rotation speed is proportional to the advance speed of the equipment; rotating discs (39) with saw-toothed edges are driven individually or in groups by hydraulic motors (not shown), which in turn are hydraulically connected to the control valves, which are electrically connected to the control module ( 23), in an arrangement that allows to drive and vary the rotational speed of the spinning disks (39) as a function of the walking speed of the equipment, the characteristics of the plants and the planting. 10.- "REVERSIBLE CANE HARVESTING EQUIPMENT" according to claim 1 and characterized in that the stem cutters, in another constructional variant, consist of smooth-edged rotary discs installed between the inner sides of the apparatus (29) which cut through the protruding stems of the star discs (40), which rotate concentric in the same direction and lower speed than the saw discs; the star discs (40) are driven individually or in groups, so that their rotation speed is proportional to the advance speed of the equipment; for allowing the installation of flat edge rotating blade cutting edge sharpening devices consisting of abrasive grinding wheels (35) which touch the cutting edge occasionally or continuously. 11. "REVERSIBLE CANE HARVESTING EQUIPMENT" according to any one of claims 1 to 10 and characterized in that the dragging devices consist of pairs of stars (125d) and (125e) mounted on rotating vertical axes (126d) and (126e). ; that the drive mechanisms (not shown) for the vertical axis rotation (126d) and (126e) are controlled by the control module (23) in an arrangement that allows the rotation speed to be varied synchronously with the equipment walking speed; 12.- "REVERSIBLE CANE HARVESTING EQUIPMENT" according to claims 1 to 10 and characterized in that the dragging devices, in a constructive alternative, consist of smooth pairs of tracks, chains or belts (130d) and (130e). or with slings mounted on drive rollers (131d) and (131e) and driven rollers (132d) (132e) (133d) (133e) and (134d) (134e); by motor rollers (131 d) (131e) driven by motors (135d) (135e), which are in turn controlled by the control module (23), in an arrangement that allows their rotational speeds to be synchronized with the equipment walking; the driven rollers (132d) (132e) (133d) (133e) are mounted on pivot arms (136d) (136e) (137d) (137e) provided with springs (138) and the driven rollers (134d) (134e) are mounted on spring-loaded sliding bearings (139). 13.- "REVERSIBLE CANE HARVESTING EQUIPMENT" according to claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the base cutter (5) is installed between the inner sides of the equipment and consists of a pair of metal discs (52); in opposite directions, to which diamond cutting discs (53) are attached. 14.- "REVERSIBLE CANE HARVESTING EQUIPMENT" according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the base cutter (5), in a constructional variant, consists of a pair of rotating metal discs (52), rotating in a direction opposites, under which segments of diamond cutting discs (105) are fixed; the diamond cutting disc segments (105) have projections (106), recesses (107) and folds (108); by the diamond cutting disc segments (105) being fitted snugly between the metal discs (52) and the clamping plates (109), which in turn are pressed against the metal discs (52) by the clamping screws (110). 15.- "REVERSIBLE CANE HARVESTING EQUIPMENT" according to claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the base cutter (5) is installed between the inner sides of the equipment and consists of triangular blades (27) attached to sliding guides. (28) oscillating (M1) transversely to the direction of travel (SC) of the equipment over a fixed guide (31); by cutting the stems against a trimmer finger or another blade; The drive mechanisms (not shown), which promote oscillatory movements (M1) to the sliding guides (28), are controlled by the control module (23), in an arrangement that allows the speed of oscillation of the blades to be varied. 16.- "REVERSIBLE CANE HARVESTING EQUIPMENT" according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the base cutter (5), in another embodiment, consists of blades (115) attached to rotating discs (116) and star discs 117 which rotate concentric to spinning discs 116 in the same direction but at a slower rate; star discs (117) are driven synchronously by mechanisms (not shown) with rotational speed proportional to the advancing speed of the equipment; The rotary discs (116) are synchronously driven by motors (not shown), which are controlled by the control module (23), allowing the speed of rotation to be adjusted as a function of the walking speed of the equipment and the characteristics of plants and planting. . 17.- "REVERSIBLE CANE HARVESTING EQUIPMENT" according to claims 1 to 16, characterized in that it has a constructional variant in which the rear axle (18) is subdivided into two axle shafts, one to support the right rear wheel (14td) and another for the left rear wheel (14te); each rear axle having an outer part (85d) and (85e) and an inner part (86d) and (86e) and sliding relative to the outer part (85d) and (85e); the rear axle shafts are laterally joined together by their outer parts 85d and 85e and supported to the chassis 13 in their central part by the hinge 83; displacement between the outer portions 85d and 85e and the inner portions 86d and 86e of the rear axle shafts is provided by travel actuators 87d and 87e which are hydraulically connected to the control valves. which, in turn, are electrically connected to the control module (23), in an arrangement that allows each actuating actuator (87d) and (87e) to be actuated individually and to change the rear gauge (Bt) through the right wheel openings (Cd) and left (Ce).