GB215212A - An improved machine for harvesting maize and the like - Google Patents

Abstract

215,212. Woodland, P. T., and Courtnall, W. S. June 7, 1923. Harvesting corn from uncut crops. - A machine for harvesting maize, Kaffir-corn, &c. comprises an endless chain, with projecting fingers working in conjunction with cutting means, mounted an an inclined U-shaped framework by which the cobs are forced by the fingers on to the cutting means whereby they are severed from the stalks. The cobs are then conveyed by belts to a receptacle. The frame 5 comprises a channel section bent to a U shape and inclined so as to cut across the normal plane of the cobs. In between the legs of the frame are traversed fingers 7, projecting sidewardly and upwardly from a chain 6 passing over sprockets driven from the ground wheels and guided by an angle 33 and distance piece 35. As the machine moves forwards guides 27 deflect the stalks to the fingers 7 which are curved and tapered at the top and travel in a direction opposite to that of the machine so that their motion relative to the ground is vertical. The fingers slide up the stalks and bend the cobs on to knives 10, 11 fixed to the frame. The severed cobs fall on to conveyers 15, 15<a>, which discharge into a receptacle 29<a> provided with a door. The fingers 7, in a modification, are tapered from one side only and a single conveyer is fitted. Knives 31 of ordinary construction may be provided for cutting the stalks.