Patent ID: 6546705
Filing Date: 2003-04-15
Classification: A01F

Abstract:
A method of controlling a combination of a baler operatively connected to a tractor comprising the steps of:advancing a tractor/baler combination through a swath or a windrow of biological matter with the tractor PTO operating at a generally constant speed to power the baler and the baler operating to take up biological matter, said baler including a reciprocably movable baler plunger; during said advancing step, assessing the flow rate of biological matter in the baler; comparing the assessed flow rate with an optimal flow rate; and if the assessed flow rate differs from the optimal flow rate by more than a predetermined amount, changing the speed of advancement of the tractor by at least one gear change when said plunger occupies a predetermined position during said reciprocal movement, thereby changing the flow rate of biological matter into the baler, said tractor including an engine providing operative power for said tractor and said baler, and a transmission operatively coupled to said engine for changing the speed of movement of said tractor without changing a speed of operation of said engine by changing transmission ratios.