JP7504047B2 - Crop harvesting machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a crop harvesting machine.

Conventionally, agricultural crop harvesting machines are known that pick up agricultural crops from a field, lift them up, transport them, and carry them out to a storage container. Patent documents 1 to 3 disclose this type of agricultural crop harvesting machine.

The agricultural crop harvesting machine of Patent Document 1 is equipped with a conveyor. The conveyor is composed of a transport conveyor and a transport auxiliary conveyor. The transport conveyor transports agricultural crops in an upward rearward direction. The transport auxiliary conveyor transports agricultural crops that have been dug up at the ground surface of the field onto the transport surface of the transport conveyor. The transport auxiliary conveyor has a number of agricultural crop supports. Each of the agricultural crop supports supports the agricultural crops so that the agricultural crops transported onto the transport surface do not roll off towards the transport start end. When the agricultural crops are transported upward rearward on the transport surface of the transport conveyor, the agricultural crop supports move in an upward rearward direction while supporting the agricultural crops.

The yam harvester of Patent Document 2 is equipped with an ascending conveyor. The ascending conveyor has a rising conveyor and a holding conveyor. The holding conveyor is arranged so as to cover the rising conveyor. A clamping surface is formed between the rising conveyor and the holding conveyor. A belt conveyor made of rubber or the like is used for the rising conveyor, and a sponge material is used for the surface of the holding conveyor. This allows the ascending conveyor to clamp and carry up the yam without damaging it.

The harvest pick-up and transport device of Patent Document 3 comprises a lower endless belt and an upper endless belt. The hanging portion of the upper endless belt moves upward while remaining in a relaxed state and presses against the inclined upper edge of the lower endless belt under its own weight. As a result, the harvest on the ground is held between the two and pulled up and transported upward toward the rear.

Patent No. 3443378 JP 2003-304719 A Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 52-016348

In the configuration of Patent Document 1, the crop support body needs to be strong enough to support the crops, and there is a risk of damage to the crops that are caught between the transport conveyor and the auxiliary transport conveyor.

In the configuration of Patent Document 2, the sponge material's deformation function is used to hold the yam in place, making it difficult to accommodate large agricultural products.

In the configuration of Patent Document 3, the weight of the upper endless belt holds down the harvested crop, so if the harvested crop is heavy, it cannot be held down sufficiently.

The present invention was made in consideration of the above circumstances, and its purpose is to provide a crop harvesting machine that can reliably transport crops while minimizing damage to the crops.

Means for solving the problems and effects

The problem that the present invention aims to solve is as described above. Next, we will explain the means for solving this problem and its effects.

According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided an agricultural crop harvesting machine having the following configuration. That is, this agricultural crop harvesting machine transports and harvests agricultural crops in a field. The agricultural crop harvesting machine comprises a first transport device and a second transport device. The first transport device transports agricultural crops. The second transport device transports the agricultural crops transported by the first transport device along a transport direction that faces diagonally upward. The second transport device comprises a lower device and an upper device. The lower device transports the agricultural crops in the transport direction while supporting them from below. The upper device is provided opposite the lower device and assists the transport of the agricultural crops by the lower device. The upper device comprises a transport auxiliary part having at least one or more elastically deformable convex parts. The lower device has a protrusion and a lower endless body. The protrusion is provided so as to protrude towards the upper device in the agricultural crop transport path and is capable of supporting the agricultural crops being transported. The lower endless body travels to move the protrusions downstream in the conveying direction. The convex parts are movable downstream in the conveying direction while contacting the crops being conveyed by the lower device. The crops are conveyed while being supported from below by the protrusions and held down from above by the convex parts .

As a result, when the second conveying device conveys the agricultural produce diagonally upward, the convex portion of the conveying auxiliary part of the upper device can be brought into contact with the agricultural produce supported by the lower device while elastically deforming according to the shape of the produce. Therefore, the agricultural produce can be held well between the lower device and the upper device while being conveyed by the lower device. As a result, the second conveying device can reliably convey the agricultural produce while minimizing damage to the agricultural produce.

According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided an agricultural crop harvesting machine having the following configuration. That is, this agricultural crop harvesting machine transports and harvests agricultural crops in a field. The agricultural crop harvesting machine comprises a first conveying device and a second conveying device. The first conveying device transports agricultural crops. The second conveying device transports the agricultural crops transported by the first conveying device along a conveying direction that faces diagonally upward. The second conveying device comprises a lower device and an upper device. The lower device transports the agricultural crops in the conveying direction while supporting them from below. The upper device is provided opposite the lower device and assists the lower device in transporting the agricultural crops. The upper device comprises a conveying auxiliary part having at least one or more elastically deformable convex parts. The convex parts are movable downstream in the conveying direction while contacting the agricultural crops transported by the lower device. The lower device has a protrusion and a lower endless body. The protrusion is provided to protrude toward the upper device in the agricultural product transport path and is capable of supporting the transported agricultural product. The lower endless body travels to move the protrusion downstream in the transport direction. In the upper device, at least one of the convex portions of the transport auxiliary part is disposed at a different position in the transport direction relative to the protrusion.

As a result, when the crop being transported by the lower device is supported by the protrusions, the convex parts of the transport auxiliary part of the upper device can be brought into contact with the appropriate positions of the crop. This allows the convex parts to effectively press down on the crop being transported.

According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided an agricultural crop harvesting machine having the following configuration. That is, this agricultural crop harvesting machine transports and harvests agricultural crops in a field. The agricultural crop harvesting machine includes a first conveying device and a second conveying device. The first conveying device transports agricultural crops. The second conveying device transports the agricultural crops transported by the first conveying device along a conveying direction that faces diagonally upward. The second conveying device includes a lower device and an upper device. The lower device supports the agricultural crops from below and conveys them in the conveying direction. The upper device is provided opposite the lower device and assists the lower device in transporting the agricultural crops. The upper device includes a conveying auxiliary part having at least one or more elastically deformable convex parts. The convex parts are movable downstream in the conveying direction while contacting the agricultural crops transported by the lower device. The convex parts of the conveying auxiliary part are made of an elastic material and formed hollow .

This allows the convex parts of the transport auxiliary parts to be lightweight and easily deformed elastically. This makes it easy to avoid damage to crops caused by the convex parts of the transport auxiliary parts.

According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided an agricultural crop harvesting machine having the following configuration. That is, this agricultural crop harvesting machine transports and harvests agricultural crops in a field. The agricultural crop harvesting machine includes a first conveying device and a second conveying device. The first conveying device transports agricultural crops. The second conveying device transports the agricultural crops transported by the first conveying device along a conveying direction that faces diagonally upward. The second conveying device includes a lower device and an upper device. The lower device supports the agricultural crops from below and conveys them in the conveying direction. The upper device is provided opposite the lower device and assists the conveying of the agricultural crops by the lower device. The upper device includes a conveying auxiliary part having at least one or more elastically deformable convex parts. The convex parts are movable downstream in the conveying direction while contacting the agricultural crops transported by the lower device. The upper device has an upper endless body that travels to move the convex parts downstream in the conveying direction. The convex portion is detachably attached to the upper endless body or to a member that travels together with the upper endless body.

This allows the convex parts of the transport auxiliary part to be replaced depending on the crop to be harvested. Also, if the convex parts are damaged, repairs can be made by simply replacing the damaged convex parts, making maintenance easy.

The above-mentioned agricultural crop harvesting machine is preferably configured as follows. That is, the convex portion is configured from a plate-like elastic material that is curved in a convex shape. When the convex portion is located at the upstream end of the second conveying device in the conveying direction, the amount of protrusion of the convex portion is smaller than when the convex portion is located facing the lower device.

This allows a relatively large space to be created between the lower and upper devices near the area where the second conveying device connects to the first conveying device. This makes it easier for the second conveying device to take over the produce from the first conveying device.

The above-mentioned agricultural crop harvesting machine is preferably configured as follows. That is, the convex portion is fixed to the upper endless body via a plurality of attachment members. The plurality of attachment members include a first attachment member and a second attachment member that are arranged at intervals in the traveling direction of the upper endless body. The traveling path of the upper endless body has a curved portion at the upstream end in the conveying direction that is convex toward the upstream side in the conveying direction. Each of the first attachment member and the second attachment member changes orientation as it passes through the curved portion.

As a result, when the convex portion passes through the curved portion of the travel path of the upper endless body, the first and second mounting members are oriented in different directions. Therefore, when the convex portion passes through the curved portion, the convex portion is crushed between the first and second mounting members. Therefore, at this time, the convex portion can be deformed so that the amount of protrusion is reduced.

1 is a side view of a crop harvesting machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. FIG. FIG. 4 is a partially enlarged perspective view of a lower conveyor provided in the second transport section. FIG. 4 is a partially enlarged perspective view of an upper conveyor provided in the second transport section.

Next, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Figure 1 is a side view of a crop harvesting machine 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

The agricultural crop harvesting machine 1 shown in FIG. 1 can transport and harvest agricultural crops 3 in a field 2. An example of the agricultural crop 3 is a heavy vegetable such as a pumpkin. The agricultural crop harvesting machine 1 is coupled to the rear of a work vehicle 5 such as a tractor, and travels (moves) together with the work vehicle 5.

When the work vehicle 5 is traveling, the unharvested crops 3 are positioned between the left and right wheels 6 of the work vehicle 5. Therefore, the crops 3 are not trampled by the wheels 6 of the work vehicle 5.

The agricultural crop harvesting machine 1 includes a pre-processing section 11, a first conveying section (first conveying device) 21, a second conveying section (second conveying device) 22, a sorting section 14, a third conveying section 23, and an agricultural crop storage section 15. The pre-processing section 11, the first conveying section 21, the second conveying section 22, and the third conveying section 23, etc., are driven by power supplied from the work vehicle 5.

The pre-treatment unit 11 is provided at the front of the crop harvesting machine 1. As the crop harvesting machine 1 moves, the pre-treatment unit 11 appropriately separates and cuts the stems connected to the crops 3 in the field 2. As a result, most of the stems are separated from the crops 3. Note that processing of the stems may be performed in advance by an operator, for example, manually.

The first conveying section 21 is disposed behind the pre-treatment section 11. The first conveying section 21 picks up the crops 3 in the field 2 and conveys them toward the second conveying section 22 at the rear.

The second conveying section 22 is disposed behind the first conveying section 21. The second conveying section 22 conveys the crops 3 conveyed by the first conveying section 21 toward the sorting section 14 at the upper rear.

The transport direction of the agricultural products 3 by the second transport section 22 is diagonally upward and rearward. The downstream end of the second transport section 22 in the transport direction is located rearward of the upstream end and is at a higher position than the upstream end.

The sorting unit 14 performs rough sorting on the crops 3 transported by the second transport unit 22. Specifically, the sorting unit 14 separates the crops 3 from parts of the stems and/or soil attached to the crops. After sorting, the parts of the stems and/or soil are discharged below the sorting unit 14 toward the outside of the machine.

The third conveying section 23 is disposed behind the sorting section 14. The third conveying section 23 conveys the crops 3 sorted by the sorting section 14 rearward. A boarding platform 16 is provided near the third conveying section 23. While the crops 3 are being transported by the third conveying section 23, a worker standing on the boarding platform 16 can sort the crops 3.

The crop storage section 15 is located behind the third conveying section 23, at the rear of the crop harvesting machine 1. A storage container 17 is removably attached to the crop storage section 15. The storage container 17 can store the crops 3 transported by the third conveying section 23 in the crop storage section 15.

With the above configuration, the crop harvesting machine 1 processes the crops 3 in the field 2 by the pre-treatment unit 11 as it advances on the field 2 together with the work vehicle 5. After processing, the crops 3 are picked up from the field 2 by the first conveying unit 21 and then transported in a lifting manner by the second conveying unit 22.

After the crops 3 are roughly sorted in the sorting section 14, they are further transported backwards by the third transport section 23. In the third transport section 23, additional sorting can be performed on the crops 3 as necessary. The crops 3 then reach the crop storage section 15 and are stored in the storage container 17.

Next, the second conveying section 22 will be described in detail with reference to Figs. 2 to 5. Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the second conveying section 22. Fig. 3 is a side view of the second conveying section 22. Fig. 4 is a partially enlarged perspective view of the lower conveyor 22b provided in the second conveying section 22. Fig. 5 is a partially enlarged perspective view of the upper conveyor 22t provided in the second conveying section 22.

2 and 3, the second conveying section 22 has a lower conveyor (lower device) 22b and an upper conveyor (upper device) 22t. The lower conveyor 22b and the upper conveyor 22t are each provided to extend along the conveying direction (the direction of arrow A). The lower conveyor 22b and the upper conveyor 22t are disposed to face each other in a direction perpendicular to the conveying direction (roughly in the vertical direction).

Explain the lower conveyor 22b.

The lower conveyor 22b can transport the crops 3 in the transport direction while supporting them from below between the first transport section 21 and the sorting section 14 shown in FIG. 1. The lower conveyor 22b is arranged so that its upstream end in the transport direction faces the first transport section 21 and its downstream end in the transport direction faces the sorting section 14.

As shown in FIG. 2, the lower conveyor 22b has a lower chain (lower endless body) 41, a receiving member 42, and a protrusion 43.

The lower chains 41 are provided in pairs at both ends in the width direction of the transport path of the second transport section 22. Each lower chain 41 travels cyclically along a loop-shaped path.

Each of the two lower chains 41 is wound around a driving sprocket 51 and a number of driven sprockets 52, 53, and 54. The two driving sprockets 51 are fixed to a common transmission shaft 55. The two lower chains 41 are driven simultaneously at the same speed by inputting power from a driving device 56 shown in FIG. 2 to the transmission shaft 55. The driving device 56 is configured as, for example, a hydraulic motor, but is not limited to this.

A large number of receiving members 42 are provided on the lower conveyor 22b. Each receiving member 42 is formed as an elongated member. The longitudinal direction of the receiving member 42 is oriented in the width direction of the conveying path of the second conveying section 22.

Both longitudinal ends of the receiving member 42 are fixed to the lower chain 41. Therefore, the receiving member 42 moves as the lower chain 41 moves. The surface of the receiving member 42 can come into contact with the crops 3. In this way, the receiving member 42 essentially constitutes the conveying surface of the lower conveyor 22b.

The receiving members 42 are arranged at appropriate intervals along the longitudinal direction of the lower chain 41. Gaps are formed between the receiving members 42. This allows soil adhering to the crops 3 to easily fall off the lower conveyor 22b, preventing soil from piling up.

A large number of protrusions 43 are provided on the lower conveyor 22b. Each protrusion 43 is formed in a rectangular plate shape. The width of the protrusions 43 is approximately equal to the distance between the pair of lower chains 41 (in other words, the length of the receiving member 42).

The protrusion 43 is fixed to the receiving member 42. Therefore, the protrusion 43 moves together with the receiving member 42 as the lower chain 41 moves.

The protrusions 43 are arranged at appropriate intervals in the longitudinal direction of the lower chain 41. The distance between the protrusions 43 is greater than the distance between the receiving members 42.

The protrusion 43 protrudes almost perpendicularly to the conveying surface formed by the receiving member 42. In the portion where the lower conveyor 22b faces the conveying path of the crops 3, the protrusion 43 is oriented so as to protrude from the lower conveyor 22b toward the upper conveyor 22t. This allows the protrusion 43 to support the crops 3 being conveyed by the lower conveyor 22b from below to prevent them from falling.

The configuration of the lower chain 41, the receiving member 42, and the protrusion 43 will be described in detail with reference to Figure 4.

The lower chain 41 is a known roller chain, with outer links and inner links connected alternately along the length of the chain. A plate-shaped mounting portion 41a is integrally formed with the outer links. The mounting portion 41a of each lower chain 41 is bent into an L-shape in a direction that approaches the lower chain 41 on the opposite side.

The receiving members 42 are detachably attached to the respective mounting portions 41a using fixing members such as screws. Ribs 44 for improving rigidity are integrally formed with the receiving members 42. The ribs 44 are respectively disposed at the leading and trailing ends of the receiving members 42 in the direction in which the receiving members 42 move. Each rib 44 protrudes inward from the lower chain 41.

As described above, many receiving members 42 are arranged in a line in the direction of movement, and the protrusions 43 are fixed to every third receiving member 42, such as the first, fourth, seventh, ... The protrusions 43 are detachably fixed to the ribs 44 using fixing members such as screws.

The receiving member 42 to which the protrusion 43 is not fixed is fixed to the surface of the attachment portion 41a on the inner circumference side of the chain. On the other hand, the receiving member 42 to which the protrusion 43 is fixed is fixed to the surface of the attachment portion 41a on the outer circumference side of the chain. As a result, the surface of the receiving member 42 to which the protrusion 43 is not fixed that supports the crop 3 is offset toward the inside of the lower chain 41 by the thickness of the attachment portion 41a plus the thickness of the receiving member 42, compared to the surface of the receiving member 42 to which the protrusion 43 is fixed that supports the crop 3. Therefore, when a large crop 3 is transported by the lower conveyor 22b, the same effect as substantially increasing the protrusion amount of the protrusion 43 can be obtained, and a large space for receiving the crop 3 can be secured on the lower conveyor 22b. In addition, since the protrusion 43 is attached, the receiving member 42, which requires frequent maintenance, can be easily removed to the outside of the lower chain 41.

Explain the upper conveyor 22t.

The upper conveyor 22t is disposed opposite the lower conveyor 22b and assists the lower conveyor 22b in transporting the crops 3. The upper conveyor 22t is disposed above the lower conveyor 22b.

In this embodiment, the upper conveyor 22t is arranged along the lower conveyor 22b, except near the upstream end and downstream end of the lower conveyor 22b in the conveying direction.

As shown in FIG. 2, the upper conveyor 22t has an upper chain (upper endless body) 61, a support member (mounting member) 62, and a protrusion 63.

A pair of upper chains 61 are provided at both ends in the width direction of the transport path of the second transport section 22. Each upper chain 61 travels cyclically along a loop-shaped path.

The two upper chains 61 are wound around a driving sprocket 71 and a driven sprocket 72, respectively. The two driving sprockets 71 are fixed to a common transmission shaft 73. The transmission shaft 73 and the driven sprocket 54 around which the lower chain 41 is wound are connected by a transmission chain 74. The power from the drive unit 56 is input to the transmission shaft 73 via the lower chain 41 and the transmission chain 74, thereby driving the two upper chains 61 simultaneously. The lower chain 41 and the upper chain 61 run at the same speed.

A large number of support members 62 are provided on the upper conveyor 22t. Each support member 62 is formed as an elongated member. The longitudinal direction of the support member 62 is oriented in the width direction of the transport path of the second transport section 22.

Both longitudinal ends of the support member 62 are fixed to the upper chain 61. Therefore, the support member 62 runs together with the upper chain 61.

The support members 62 are arranged at appropriate intervals along the longitudinal direction of the upper chain 61. The interval between the support members 62 is equal to the interval between the protrusions 43 attached to the lower chain 41.

The multiple protrusions 63 are removably attached to the support member 62. As shown in FIG. 3, each protrusion 63 can move downstream in the conveying direction while in contact with the crops 3 being conveyed by the lower conveyor 22b.

Each protrusion 63 is made of a plate-shaped elastic material, specifically a rubber plate. The rubber plate is attached so as to connect adjacent support members 62 in the running direction of the upper chain 61. Between the support members 62, the rubber plate is curved in a U-shape or V-shape. This forms a hollow protrusion 63 that protrudes outward.

A number of protrusions 63 are arranged in a line along the entire length of the upper chain 61. These protrusions 63 form a transport auxiliary section 64 that assists in the transport of the crops 3 as described above.

The multiple protrusions 63 move along an oval path that corresponds to the travel path of the upper chain 61 as the upper chain 61 travels. In the portion where the upper conveyor 22t faces the transport path of the agricultural products 3, the protrusions 63 are oriented so as to protrude from the upper conveyor 22t toward the lower conveyor 22b.

In the second conveying section 22, the protrusions 43 of the lower conveyor 22b and the convex portions 63 of the upper conveyor 22t alternately pass through the conveying path of the agricultural products 3. In other words, in the conveying path of the agricultural products 3, the tip of the convex portion 63 is located between adjacent protrusions 43 in the running direction of the lower conveyor 22b. In other words, the position of the tip of the convex portion 63 differs in the conveying direction from the position of the protrusions 43.

As a result of this arrangement, as shown in FIG. 3, the crop 3 being transported is positioned between the convex portion 63 and the corresponding projection 43. In other words, the crop 3 is positioned in the relatively concave portion between the convex portions 63. Therefore, the crop 3 is transported diagonally upward and rearward while being supported from below by the projections 43 and held down from above by the convex portions 63.

The width of the convex portion 63 is formed to be approximately equal to the width of the transport path, and is sufficiently larger than the size of the crop 3. Because the convex portion 63 is formed to be hollow, the convex portion 63 comes into contact with the crop 3 while easily deforming into a concave shape according to the shape of the crop 3. By deforming a portion of the convex portion 63 into a concave shape in this way, both sides of the crop 3 in the width direction of the transport path are blocked. This prevents the crop 3 from unintentionally rolling and falling off the protrusions 43, allowing for stable transport.

The configuration of the upper chain 61, the support member 62, and the protrusion 63 will be described in detail with reference to Figure 5 etc.

The upper chain 61, like the lower chain 41, is constructed as a known roller chain. The basic pitch of one set of outer links and inner links is equal to the basic pitch of the lower chain 41. A plate-shaped mounting portion 61a is integrally formed on the outer link. The configuration of the mounting portion 61a is the same as that of the mounting portion 41a of the lower chain 41.

Many of the mounting parts 61a are arranged along the travel path of the upper chain 61, and the support members 62 are fixed to every third mounting part 61a. The support members 62 are removably fixed to the surface of the mounting parts 61a on the outer periphery of the chain using fixing members such as screws.

The protrusions 63 are attached to two support members 62 adjacent to each other in the running direction. More specifically, a pair of attachment ribs 65 are formed on each support member 62. The attachment ribs 65 are disposed on the leading and trailing ends of the support member 62 in the direction in which the support member 62 moves. The attachment ribs 65 protrude toward the outer periphery of the upper chain 61.

The plate-like member that constitutes the protrusion 63 is fixed to the mounting rib 65 using an appropriate fixing member such as a screw. The multiple protrusions 63 are configured to be detachable from the mounting rib 65 independently of each other. Therefore, even if one protrusion 63 is damaged, only that protrusion 63 can be easily replaced, making maintenance easy.

The two support members 62 to which the protrusions 63 are attached run along the running path of the upper chain 61. The orientations of the two support members 62 (the first and second mounting members) are the same in the straight-line portion of the running path, but are different from each other in the curved portion 67 (i.e., the portion of the driven sprocket 72), which is an arc, depending on the curvature.

In the curved portion 67, the mounting ribs 65 of the two support members 62 are oriented away from each other as they approach the outer side of the upper chain 61. As a result of this change in the orientation of the base portion, the protrusions 63 in the curved portion 67 are crushed to reduce the amount of protrusion.

As a result, a relatively large space 68 is formed in the upper conveyor 22t near the upstream end in the conveying direction corresponding to the curved portion 67. Therefore, the convex portion 63 is less likely to get in the way when the agricultural products 3 are transferred from the first conveying section 21 to the second conveying section 22, making the transfer of the agricultural products smoother.

As described above, the agricultural crop harvesting machine 1 of this embodiment transports and harvests the agricultural crops 3 in the field 2. The agricultural crop harvesting machine 1 includes a first conveying section 21 and a second conveying section 22. The first conveying section 21 transports the agricultural crops 3. The second conveying section 22 transports the agricultural crops 3 transported by the first conveying section 21 along a transport direction that faces diagonally upward. The second conveying section 22 includes a lower conveyor 22b and an upper conveyor 22t. The lower conveyor 22b transports the agricultural crops 3 in the transport direction while supporting them from below. The upper conveyor 22t is provided opposite the lower conveyor 22b and assists the lower conveyor 22b in transporting the agricultural crops 3. The upper conveyor 22t includes a transport assist section 64 having a plurality of elastically deformable convex portions 63. Each protrusion 63 can move downstream in the conveying direction while in contact with the crops 3 being conveyed by the lower conveyor 22b.

As a result, when the second conveying section 22 conveys the crop 3 diagonally upward, the convex portion 63 of the conveying auxiliary portion 64 on the upper conveyor 22t can be brought into contact with the crop 3 supported by the lower conveyor 22b while elastically deforming according to the crop's shape. Therefore, the crop 3 being conveyed by the lower conveyor 22b can be held well by the lower conveyor 22b and the upper conveyor 22t. As a result, the second conveying section 22 can reliably convey the crop 3 while minimizing damage to the crop 3. This configuration is particularly suitable when conveying heavy vegetables such as pumpkins diagonally upward at a steep angle.

In the crop harvesting machine 1 of this embodiment, the lower conveyor 22b has a protrusion 43 and a lower chain 41. The protrusion 43 is provided to protrude toward the upper conveyor 22t in the transport path of the crops 3, and is capable of supporting the transported crops 3. The lower chain 41 runs to move the protrusion 43 downstream in the transport direction. In the upper conveyor 22t, the convex portion 63 of the transport auxiliary portion 64 is positioned at a different position in the transport direction relative to the protrusion 43.

As a result, when the crop 3 being transported by the lower conveyor 22b is supported by the protrusions 43, the convex portion 63 of the transport auxiliary portion 64 on the upper conveyor 22t can be brought into contact with an appropriate position on the crop 3. This allows the pressing action of the convex portion 63 against the crop 3 being transported to be effectively exerted.

In addition, in the agricultural crop harvesting machine 1 of this embodiment, the convex portion 63 of the conveying auxiliary portion 64 is made of an elastic material and is formed in a hollow shape.

This allows the protrusions 63 of the transport auxiliary part 64 to be lightweight and easily deformed elastically. Therefore, damage to the crops 3 caused by the protrusions 63 of the transport auxiliary part 64 can be easily avoided.

In addition, in the agricultural crop harvesting machine 1 of this embodiment, the upper conveyor 22t has an upper chain 61 that runs to move the convex parts 63 downstream in the conveying direction. Each convex part 63 is removably attached to the upper chain 61.

This allows the convex portion 63 of the transport auxiliary portion 64 to be replaced depending on the crop 3 to be harvested. Furthermore, if the convex portion 63 is damaged, repairs can be made by simply replacing the damaged convex portion 63, providing good maintainability.

In addition, in the agricultural crop harvesting machine 1 of this embodiment, the convex portion 63 is made of a plate-shaped elastic material that is curved in a convex shape. When the convex portion 63 is located at the upstream end of the second conveying section 22 in the conveying direction, the amount of protrusion of the convex portion 63 is smaller than when the convex portion 63 is located facing the lower conveyor 22b.

This allows a relatively large space 68 to be formed between the lower conveyor 22b and the upper conveyor 22t near the area where the second conveyor 22 connects to the first conveyor 21. This makes it easier for the second conveyor 22 to receive the crops 3 from the first conveyor 21.

In addition, in the crop harvesting machine 1 of this embodiment, each of the convex portions 63 is fixed to the upper chain 61 via two support members 62. The two support members 62 are arranged at an interval in the running direction of the upper chain 61. The running path of the upper chain 61 has a curved portion 67 at the upstream end in the conveying direction that convexly faces the upstream side in the conveying direction. Each of the two support members 62 changes orientation as it passes through the curved portion 67.

As a result, when the convex portion 63 passes through the curved portion 67 of the travel path of the upper chain 61, the two support members 62 are oriented in different directions. Therefore, when the convex portion 63 passes through the curved portion 67, the convex portion 63 is crushed. Therefore, at this time, the convex portion 63 can be deformed so that the amount of protrusion is reduced.

The above describes a preferred embodiment of the present invention, but the above configuration can be modified, for example, as follows:

In the above embodiment, one rubber plate is used for each protrusion 63 on the upper conveyor 22t. However, multiple protrusions 63 may be realized by supporting one rubber plate in a wave shape.

The protrusions 63 on the upper conveyor 22t may be solid instead of hollow.

The protrusion 63 may be fixed to the upper chain 61 via other members in addition to the two support members 62. In other words, the protrusion 63 may be fixed to the upper chain 61 at three or more points.

When the convex portion 63 of the transport auxiliary portion 64 on the upper conveyor 22t is positioned facing the lower conveyor 22b, the amount of protrusion of the convex portion can be set arbitrarily and may be larger or smaller than the amount of protrusion of this embodiment. The amount of protrusion of the convex portion 63 can be achieved by replacing the convex portion 63.

The number of convex portions 63 of the transport auxiliary portion 64 on the upper conveyor 22t and the number of protrusions 43 on the lower conveyor 22b can be set arbitrarily and may be increased or decreased compared to the number in this embodiment. The number of convex portions 63 and protrusions 43 may each be only one.

A drive unit may be provided for each of the lower chain 41 of the lower conveyor 22b and the upper chain 61 of the upper conveyor 22t.

It is apparent that the present invention is susceptible to many modifications and variations in light of the above teachings. It is therefore to be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein.

Reference Signs List 1 Crop harvesting machine 2 Field 3 Crop 21 First conveying section (first conveying device)
22 Second conveying unit (second conveying device)
22b Lower conveyor (lower device)
22t Upper conveyor (upper device)
41 Lower chain (lower endless body)
43 Protrusion 61 Upper chain (upper endless body)
62 Support member (mounting member)
63 Convex portion 64 Convex portion 67 Curved portion

Claims (6)

A crop harvesting machine that transports and harvests crops in a field,
a first conveying device for conveying agricultural products;
a second conveying device that conveys the agricultural products conveyed by the first conveying device along a conveying direction that faces diagonally upward;
Equipped with
The second conveying device is
a lower device that supports the agricultural product from below and transports the agricultural product in the transport direction;
an upper device provided opposite the lower device and assisting the lower device in transporting agricultural products;
Equipped with
the upper device includes a conveyance assistant portion having at least one elastically deformable convex portion,
The lower device is
a protrusion provided on a transport path for agricultural products so as to protrude toward the upper device and capable of supporting the agricultural products being transported;
a lower endless body that travels to move the protrusion downstream in the conveying direction;
having
the protrusion is movable downstream in the conveying direction while contacting the crop being conveyed by the lower device,
A crop harvesting machine according to claim 1, wherein the crops are transported while being supported from below by the projections and pressed down from above by the convex portions. A crop harvesting machine that transports and harvests crops in a field,
a first conveying device for conveying agricultural products;
a second conveying device that conveys the agricultural products conveyed by the first conveying device along a conveying direction that faces diagonally upward;
Equipped with
The second conveying device is
a lower device that supports the agricultural product from below and transports the agricultural product in the transport direction;
an upper device provided opposite the lower device and assisting the lower device in transporting agricultural products;
Equipped with
the upper device includes a conveyance assistant portion having at least one elastically deformable convex portion,
the protrusion is movable downstream in the conveying direction while contacting the crop being conveyed by the lower device,
The lower device is
a protrusion provided on a transport path for agricultural products so as to protrude toward the upper device and capable of supporting the agricultural products being transported;
a lower endless body that travels to move the protrusion downstream in the conveying direction;
having
A crop harvesting machine, characterized in that in the upper device, at least one of the convex portions of the transport auxiliary portion is arranged at a different position in the transport direction relative to the protrusion. A crop harvesting machine that transports and harvests crops in a field,
a first conveying device for conveying agricultural products;
a second conveying device that conveys the agricultural products conveyed by the first conveying device along a conveying direction that faces diagonally upward;
Equipped with
The second conveying device is
a lower device that supports the agricultural product from below and transports the agricultural product in the transport direction;
an upper device provided opposite the lower device and assisting the lower device in transporting agricultural products;
Equipped with
the upper device includes a conveyance assistant portion having at least one elastically deformable convex portion,
the protrusion is movable downstream in the conveying direction while contacting the crop being conveyed by the lower device,
A crop harvesting machine, characterized in that the convex portion of the transport auxiliary portion is made of an elastic material and is formed hollow. A crop harvesting machine that transports and harvests crops in a field,
a first conveying device for conveying agricultural products;
a second conveying device that conveys the agricultural products conveyed by the first conveying device along a conveying direction that faces diagonally upward;
Equipped with
The second conveying device is
a lower device that supports the agricultural product from below and transports the agricultural product in the transport direction;
an upper device provided opposite the lower device and assisting the lower device in transporting agricultural products;
Equipped with
the upper device includes a conveyance assistant portion having at least one elastically deformable convex portion,
the protrusion is movable downstream in the conveying direction while contacting the crop being conveyed by the lower device,
the upper device has an upper endless body that travels to move the convex portion downstream in the conveying direction,
A crop harvesting machine, characterized in that the convex portion is detachably attached to the upper endless body or to a member that travels together with the upper endless body. A crop harvesting machine according to claim 4,
The protrusion is made of a plate-like elastic material that is curved in a convex shape,
A crop harvesting machine characterized in that when the convex portion is located at the upstream end of the second conveying device in the conveying direction, the amount of protrusion of the convex portion is smaller than when the convex portion is located facing the lower device. 6. A crop harvesting machine according to claim 5,
The protrusion is fixed to the upper endless body via a plurality of mounting members,
The plurality of mounting members include a first mounting member and a second mounting member that are spaced apart in a traveling direction of the upper endless body,
the travel path of the upper endless body has a curved portion that is convex toward the upstream side in the transport direction at an upstream end portion in the transport direction,
2. A crop harvesting machine comprising: a first attachment member and a second attachment member each of which changes orientation as it passes through the curved portion.

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