Patent ID: 6196916
Filing Date: 2001-03-06
Classification: A01D

Abstract:
In a combine crop feeder conveyor in which a plurality of endless chains are entrained in respective loops about respective drive sprockets and a common feed drum, with crop material conveying slats extending between the chains, the chains and slats being driven in endless loops to convey crop material up a feeder housing, the improvement comprising:a) a plurality of chain guide rings attached to and extending around the periphery of the feed drum, a respective one of said chain guide rings being positioned to engage each chain, each of said guide rings comprising:i) a pair of flanges extending in respective opposite directions outward and upward at an angle greater than parallel with the surface of said feed drum but less than perpendicular to the surface of said feed drum with the engaged chain being accommodated between the flanges such that said flanges act to tension the chain as it wanders from a center position between said flanges; andii) a raised center portion positioned between said flanges, the raised center portion of each said guide ring being of a width and height such that it is contacted by rollers on the engaged chain when the chain is running in a position centered between said flanges.