Patent ID: 6202395
Filing Date: 2001-03-20
Classification: A01D

Abstract:
Apparatus for maintaining a non-cut crop header disposed on a forward portion of a combine a designated height above the soil as the combine traverses a field, said apparatus comprising:a pre-loaded, generally linear flexible arm coupled to a forward portion of the header and having first and second opposed ends, wherein the first end of said flexible arm engages and is displaced over the soil as the header moves above the soil;angular deflection sensing means coupled to the second end of said flexible arm for measuring a deflection of said flexible arm when the first end of said flexible arm encounters irregularities in the soil as the header moves above the soil and for providing a first signal representing the extent of deflection of said flexible and; andcontrol means coupled to said header and said angular deflection sensing means and responsive to said first signal for raising or lowering the header in accordance with said first signal in maintaining the header a designated height above the soil, wherein said flexible arm and angular deflection sensing means are attached to a head housing disposed on a forward portion of said combine and said head housing is comprised of polyurethane and includes a metal tip and am mounting bracket for attaching said metal tip to a forward end of said head housing, and wherein said mounting bracket further couples said flexible arm to a forward end of said head housing.