Crop-package transfer system

A crop-package transfer system has a flexible member supported by a support frame and is configured to support a crop package on a first side of the flexible member. A motive member is disposed on a second side of the flexible member. An actuator device is configured to move the motive member along the second side of the flexible member, such that the motive member transmits motive force from the actuator device to the crop package via the flexible member.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

Not applicable.

STATEMENT OF FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

This disclosure relates to transport of agricultural crop packages (e.g., bales), including transfer of crop packages from a crop-packaging device (e.g., a baler) to a trailing attachment or other device.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

In various settings, crops or other material may be arranged for pick-up by mechanized equipment. For example, cut material (e.g., hay) in a field may be raked or otherwise arranged into windrows in the field for further processing. Various mechanisms may then be utilized to gather such material. For example, a crop-packaging device such as a baler may be pulled by a tractor along a windrow of cut material and may gather the material from the windrow. The material may then be passed into a packaging (e.g., baling) chamber for formation into a crop package (e.g., a bale). In various configurations, such a crop package may be generally cylindrical in shape and may be typically referred to as a “round” bale. Similarly, a baler that forms a round bale may be referred to as a “round” baler.

Once formed, a bale (or other crop package) may be ejected from the baling chamber of the baler (or other crop-packaging device). In known round balers, for example, a rear gate to the baling chamber may open (e.g., by pivoting backward and vertically upward), such that a formed bale may move backward (and typically fall downward) out of the baling chamber. In certain operations, bales (or other crop packages) may be wrapped with wrap material before (or after) being ejected from the baling (or other packaging) chamber. Such wrapping may be useful, for example, to provide a degree of surface protection and for structural integrity.

Known round balers (and other crop-packaging devices) typically eject a formed bale (or other crop packages) from the baling chamber before forming another bale. As such, formed bales may be ejected from the baling chamber (and the baler) relatively far from a preferred location for bale storage or use. To more appropriately locate bales or sets of bales, it may accordingly be useful to transport bales in various ways once the bales leave the baler. However, because of the significant weight of a formed bale and the susceptibility of the bales and wrap material to damage (e.g., surface damage due to rough handling), transport of formed bales may require significant effort and introduce various complications to farm operations.

In known operations, a bale accumulator or similar device may be utilized, in order to transport multiple bales to various locations. A bale accumulator may include, for example, a raised bed to support multiple bales during transport, and may be configured to receive formed bales onto the bed for transport, after the bales are ejected from the baling chamber. In other operations, other attachments or devices may be similarly (or otherwise) configured to receive a bale from a baler for transport or processing.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

A crop-package transfer system is disclosed for transporting bales of crop (and other) material.

According to one aspect of the disclosure, a crop-package transfer system is configured to support a crop package on a first side of a flexible member supported by a support frame. A motive member may be disposed on a second side of the flexible member. An actuator device may be configured to move the motive member along the second side of the flexible member, such that the motive member may transmit motive force from the actuator device to the crop package via the flexible member.

In certain embodiments, the support frame may be configured to trail behind a rear gate of a crop-packaging device, such that a crop package ejected from the crop-packaging device moves onto the flexible member. The motive member may move the crop package along the flexible member over at least one of a rearward path and a vertically upward path.

In certain embodiments, the motive member may include a roller or bar configured to move along the second side of the flexible member. A second motive member may be disposed on the second side of the flexible member, and the actuator device may be configured to move the second motive member along the second side of the flexible member to transmit motive force from the actuator device to the crop package via the flexible member.

In certain embodiments, the support frame may include one or more rigid members configured to support the crop package. As the actuator device moves the motive member along the second side of the flexible member, the motive member may move the crop package along the rigid members. The first and second motive member may transmit motive force from the actuator device to move the crop package in first and second directions.

In certain embodiments, a working length of the flexible member with respect to the support frame may increase as the motive member moves the crop package. A first end of the flexible member may be attached to the support frame with a rolling member, such that the flexible member unrolls from the rolling member as the motive member moves the crop package. A biasing assembly may apply tension to the flexible member to resist the increase in the working length of the flexible member.

In certain embodiments, an attachment member is attached to a crop-packaging device and is configured to transmit the motive force from the actuator device to the motive member. The attachment member may be attached to a rear gate of the crop-packaging device, and the actuator device may be configured to move the rear gate, in order to move the motive member via the attachment member. An intermediate member may be attached to the support frame or the crop-packaging device, such that the attachment member transmits motive force from the actuator device to the motive member via the intermediate member. The intermediate member may be pivotally attached to the support frame or the crop-packaging device and may move the motive member in an arcuate path.

In certain embodiments, the crop-package transfer system is configured to receive and support the crop package on a first side of a second flexible member supported by the support frame. The motive member may be disposed on the first side of the second flexible member, such that as the motive member transmits motive force to the crop package via the flexible member, the motive member may not transmit motive force to the crop package via the second flexible member. The second flexible member may be configured to move relative to the flexible member, in order to tilt or turn the crop package.

The details of one or more implementations of the disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features and advantages will become apparent from the description, the drawings, and the claims.

Like reference numerals in the drawings indicate like components, parts, or operations.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following describes one or more example implementations of the disclosed system and method, as shown in the accompanying figures of the drawings described briefly above.

As noted above, in various situations it may be useful to gather material (e.g., cut plant material) for further processing. For example, a cutting or raking operation may leave cut material (e.g., hay) arranged in windrows in a field. Balers and other equipment may then be used to gather the material from the windrows for formation into bales.

Also as noted above, it may be useful in various instances to move formed bales to other locations, once the bales are ejected from a baling chamber. The disclosed crop-package transfer system may assist in these (and other) operations.

Various examples below may refer to components of a crop-package transfer system (or other components) as “ahead of,” or “behind” various reference components. Such examples may refer to a configuration in which the crop-package transfer system is disposed behind a packaging (e.g., baling) chamber and ahead of a trailing attachment or other device, such as an accumulator or wrapping device. It will be understood that similar principles to those discussed below may also be applied to other configurations, including configurations in which the attachment or other device (e.g., the accumulator) or the crop-package transfer system are disposed along side of (or in other relation to) the relevant baler.

In various examples below, various embodiments are presented for use with a crop-packaging device configured as a round baler. As such, in examples below, various crop-packages may be referred to as “bales” or “round bales.” It will be understood, however, that the disclosed crop-package transfer system may be utilized with a variety of crop packages and, in various embodiments, with a variety of crop-packaging devices.

Various examples below discuss a crop-package transfer system for use with an accumulator that generally trails behind the crop-package transfer system or an associate crop-packaging device. This context is presented as an example only. Accordingly, it will be understood that the disclosed crop-package transfer system may be used with other attachments or devices, including processing devices such as wrapping devices (e.g., a wrapping device integrated with or trailing behind a baler).

In certain operations, as noted above, an accumulator (or other device) may trail behind a baler along a field, in order to receive bales from the baler and transport the bales to other locations. Such an accumulator may (or other device) be configured as an integral portion of the baler itself, or may be configured as a separate device, such as a towed trailer or self-propelled vehicle. Various accumulators may include a bed configured to support one or more bales at a time for transport.

Devices such as accumulators may be useful to transport bales to various destinations once the bales are loaded onto the accumulator bed, and other devices may be useful for transport and other operations (e.g., for wrapping formed bales). However, an ejected bale may need to be moved (i.e., transferred) in order to be loaded onto the accumulator bed or other device platform. For example, in order to open a sufficiently large ejection passage for a formed (and, in certain implementations, wrapped) bale to exit the baling chamber, a rear gate to a baler may be configured with certain dimensions. Accordingly, in order to avoid a collision between the gate and a trailing device (or bales carried thereupon) during the operation of the gate, the device may be required follow the baler at a relatively large distance. Further, in order to provide sufficient clearance for uneven terrain, it may be necessary to dispose the bale-receiving platform of the device (e.g., the accumulator bed or wrapping platform) a certain distance above the ground.

Due to these (and other) considerations, a bale may need to be ejected from a baling chamber onto a structure other than the bale-receiving platform (or other apparatus or feature), then moved relative to the baler in order to reach the bale-receiving platform (or other apparatus or feature). As such, a crop-package transfer system may include a support frame configured to receive and support a bale, with the support platform being separated from the bale-receiving platform of the associated transport or processing device (e.g., accumulator bed or wrapping platform).

In certain embodiments, a crop-package transfer system may include a support frame disposed relatively low to the ground and forward of a trailing device (or bale-receiving platform thereof), so that operation of the baler gate is not impeded by the support frame or the accumulator. When ejected from the baling chamber, a bale may accordingly fall from a baling chamber onto the support frame, rather than the bale-receiving platform (e.g., accumulator bed. The bale may then need to be moved upwardly (e.g., vertically), at least in part, to reach the bale-receiving platform for further transport or processing.

A support frame for a crop-package transfer system may be configured in various ways. In certain embodiments, a support frame may be formed as part of a baler. For example, a support frame may be configured as a rigid frame extending rearward from the body of the baler behind (and below) the baler gate. In certain embodiments, a support frame may be formed as part of an accumulator or other device. For example, a support frame may be configured as a rigid frame extending forward of the bed of an accumulator (and behind and below the baler gate). In certain embodiments, a support frame may be formed as a stand-alone frame. For example, a support frame may be formed as part of a chassis of a trailer, which may be configured to be towed over a field by a baler, pushed over a field by an accumulator or other device, or otherwise moved with a baler to receive formed bales.

Even when a relatively small clearance is provided between the ground and the relevant bale-receiving platform (e.g., accumulator bed or wrapping platform), a bale that has been ejected from a baling chamber may still need to be lifted in order to reach the platform. For example, in various accumulators, a raised member (e.g., a raised bar) may be provided at the front of the accumulator bed (or elsewhere). Such a member may prevent bales that have already been loaded onto the bed from rolling off of the accumulator. Additional bales to be loaded onto the bed, however, may need to be lifted somewhat to clear the raised member in order to reach the bed.

In certain configurations, other movement of a bale (e.g., other movement prior to, or as part of, transport of the bale by an accumulator) may be useful. For example, whether an accumulator is utilized or not, after ejection of a bale from a baling chamber, it may be necessary to move the bale rearward, relative to the baler. For example, even where an accumulator is not utilized it may be useful to move an ejected bale rearward, in order to allow a gate to the baling chamber to close. As another example, where an accumulator is configured to trail relatively far behind a baler (e.g., in order to avoid collision with the baler gate), a bale may also need to be moved rearward after leaving the baler, in order to be loaded onto the bed of the accumulator. Likewise, bales may need to be moved upward (e.g., vertically) after ejection from the baling chamber, for wrapping or for various other reasons, including those discussed above.

In certain embodiments, a crop-package transfer system may include one or more flexible members supported by the support frame of the crop-package transfer system. Such flexible members may be configured to support a bale, at least in part, with respect to the support frame. In certain embodiments, the flexible members may be disposed relative to a baling chamber such that a formed (and, in certain implementations, wrapped) bale that is ejected from the baling chamber passes onto and is supported by the flexible members. A flexible member, for example, may be disposed on a support frame below and behind a baling chamber, such that a bale ejected from the baling chamber falls by gravity onto the flexible member. As used herein, the portion of a flexible member that faces a bale when a bale is supported by the flexible member may be referred to as a “support surface.”

In certain embodiments, a flexible member may be configured as a belt or sheet of rubber or other material, or as a plurality of pivotal links (e.g., a track or conveyor, or plastic or other chain), as a strap of various materials. It will be understood, however, that other configurations are also possible. In certain embodiments, multiple flexible members may be utilized, various subsets of which may be configured differently from others. For example, certain flexible members may exhibit different resting tension (or slackness) than others. Similarly, various flexible members may be attached to the relevant support frame in different ways. In certain embodiments, a single flexible member may be attached to a support frame at one end with a first connection type (e.g., with a fixed connection such as a pin or clamp) and may be attached to the support frame at another end with a different connection type (e.g., with an extendable connection such as a spool or other rolling member).

In certain embodiments, the flexible members may collectively support the entire weight of the bale. In certain embodiments, the flexible members may support only a portion of the weight of the bale, or may support the weight of the bale only at certain times. In certain embodiments, certain flexible members may be configured to support a different portion of the weight of a bale than other flexible members, or may be configured to support a bale at different times (or in different positions) than other flexible members.

A crop-package transfer system may further include a motive member for moving a bale supported by the flexible members. With a bale supported by one or more flexible members, for example, a motive member may be configured such that the motive member is disposed on a different side of one or more of the flexible members than the bale. In certain embodiments, a motive member may be disposed on a side of the flexible members that is opposite the relevant support surfaces of the flexible members, such that the motive member, when moved, contacts the bale via the flexible members. For example, for a flexible member such as a rubber belt (or other flexible strap) that is configured to support a bale on an upward-facing support surface, a motive member may be disposed, at least in part, below the rubber belt (or strap) and in contact with a downward facing surface of the belt (or strap). In certain embodiments, a motive member may be configured as a bar, or another relatively rigid member. In certain embodiments, a motive member may be configured as a rotatable body, such as a roller configured to roll along the relevant flexible members when the motive member is moved.

An actuator device may be configured to move the motive member, relative to the flexible member and relative to a bale supported by the flexible member. In this way a bale may be moved rearward and vertically upward with respect to the baler by the actuator device and the motive member, as may be useful, for example, for loading the bale onto the bed of a trailing accumulator. For example, a hydraulic cylinder or spring assembly may be configured to move a motive member rearward and vertically upward when actuated. In various configurations, this may cause the motive member also to move the bale rearward and vertically upward, via the flexible member. In this way, for example, a bale ejected from a baling chamber onto the crop-package transfer system may be moved rearward to clear the baler gate and vertically upward to reach the bed of a trailing accumulator (or other structure) via the actuator device, motive member and flexible member.

Because the motive member may contact the bale via the flexible member (at least over the portion of the bale that is directly supported by the flexible member), the motive member may provide motive force to the bale indirectly, via the flexible member. In various operations, this may provide additional benefits beyond the rearward and vertically upward movement of the bale. As noted above, for example, bales (and wrap material of wrapped bales) may be susceptible to damage during bale transport. The interposition of one or more flexible member between the motive member and a particular bale, may cause the bale to roll along the flexible member under the force of the motive member. This may result in decreased likelihood of damage to the bale (and to any wrap material) as the bale is transferred than if, for example, the bale were to slide rather than roll.

In certain embodiments, an actuator device may move a motive member directly. For example, a hydraulic (or other) actuator may be mounted to the support frame of a crop-package transfer system and may be configured to move a motive member that is also mounted (e.g., pivotally mounted) to the support frame. Similarly, in certain embodiments, a hydraulic (or other) actuator may be configured to move a gate of the baler, and an attachment member (e.g., a link of a linkage, a chain, a cable, a bar, a beam, and so on) may transmit force from the gate to the motive member.

In certain embodiments, an actuator device may move a motive member indirectly. For example, a hydraulic (or other) actuator may move an intermediate member (e.g., an arm for a push bar that is pivotally attached to a baler) and the intermediate member may in turn activate a pivoting (or other) arm attached to the support frame to move the motive member.

As noted above, in certain embodiments, a motive member may be rotatable. For example, a motive member may be configured as a roller supported at either end by pivoting attachments, such that the roller may rotate along the flexible member as the actuator device moves the roller to move the bale.

Also as noted above, in certain embodiments, multiple flexible members may be provided. For example, a set of parallel flexible members may be provided, such that a bale may be supported by multiple flexible members (or multiple portions of a single flexible member) simultaneously. In certain embodiments, various flexible members of a set may exhibit different characteristics. For example, a first subset of flexible members in a set may be relatively tightly suspended between attachment points and a second subset of flexible members in the set may be suspended between attachment points with a relatively large amount of slack. In certain embodiments, only a subset of flexible members in a set may be moved by the motive member to move the bale. For example, a first, relatively tightly suspended subset of flexible members may support a bale when the bale is first received on the support frame. This first subset of flexible members, however, may not be configured to be moved by the motive member to move the bale. Rather, a second, relatively slackly suspended subset of flexible members may be configured to be moved by the motive member to move the bale. In other arrangements, otherwise configured subsets of flexible members may be configured to variously support, or support and move, a bale.

In certain embodiments, a parallel, latticed, or other arrangement of flexible members (or other members) may be disposed on a frame. In this way, for example, openings may be provided between a bale and the an area below (e.g., the ground) when the bale is supported by the crop-package transfer system (e.g., is supported by the various flexible members). Accordingly, loose material (e.g., dirt and debris, material falling free of various bales, and so on) may fall to the area below (e.g., the ground) the crop-package transfer system rather than contribute to clogging or fouling various operations.

Various configurations may be utilized to provide such openings for passage of loose material to the ground. For example, various crop-package transfer systems may include two sets of flexible members, with one set disposed in parallel with (or transverse to) the other and with the two sets of flexible members collectively defining various openings between a supported bale and the ground. As another example, various crop-package transfer systems may include a lattice (or parallel) arrangement of flexible members and rigid members. For example, a set of parallel belts for supporting and moving a bale may be interspersed with an arrangement of parallel (or transverse) rigid members (e.g., rigid bars), wherein the rigid members may provide support to the bale relative to the ground, but may not be configured to actively move the bale relative to the support frame.

Also as noted above, in certain embodiments, one or more ends of the various flexible members may be fixed with respect to the frame and one or more ends of the various flexible members may be extendably attached to the frame. For example, one flexible member of a crop-package transfer system may be fixedly attached to the frame at each end (e.g., pinned or clamped to the frame), such that change in working length of the flexible member results from the flexibility the flexible member itself. In contrast, another flexible member of a crop-package transfer system may be fixedly attached to the frame at one end, but coiled around a spring-loaded spool (or other rolling member) at another end, such that the flexible member may lengthen by unwinding from the spool. As used herein, a flexible member with at least one end extendably attached to the frame may be considered an extendably attached flexible member.

In certain embodiments, certain extendably attached flexible members (or extendably attached ends of flexible members) may change in working length as the motive member moves the bale via the flexible members. For example, a flexible member may be coiled around a spool (or other rolling member) attached to a motive member, such that as the motive member moves the flexible member to move the bale, the flexible member winds (or unwinds) on the spool and thereby changes in working length relative to the support frame. As another example, a flexible member may be coiled around a spool (or other rolling member) that is fixed relative to the frame. In such a configuration, as the motive member moves the flexible member to move the bale, the flexible member may also wind (or unwind) on the spool.

In certain embodiments, certain fixed flexible members (or fixed ends of flexible elements) may not move with the motive member (at least to the same degree as the extendably attached flexible members). In certain embodiments, both fixed and extendably attached flexible members may provide support for bales when the bales are received from the baling chamber, but only the extendably attached flexible members (and the motive member) may be moved by the motive member to transport the bales.

In certain embodiments, fixed and extendably attached flexible members may be disposed at the same height with respect to the ground, when not supporting a bale. In certain embodiments, extendably attached flexible members may be disposed relatively above fixed flexible members, when not supporting a bale (or vice versa). When loaded with a bale, such movable attached flexible members may then sink downward until the bale is also supported by the fixed flexible members (or vice versa).

Referring now toFIG. 1A, a crop-package transfer system may be utilized with respect to various balers, such as a round baler20. The baler20is configured to be towed by a powered tractor22via a forward drawbar24or other connection device, and may include a rearwardly disposed hitch (not shown) or other connection device for attaching a trailing accumulator or other device. Material may be gathered from a field by the baler20, and formed into round bales within a baling chamber26. A gate28may be disposed at the rear of the baler, and configured to swing rearward and vertically upward to release a bale from the baling chamber26.

A crop-package transfer system30may be configured to travel behind the baler20, so as to receive bales that are ejected from the baling chamber26. In certain embodiments, the crop-package transfer system30may be configured to travel between the baler20and a trailing accumulator or other device (not shown). In various embodiments, the crop-package transfer system30may be supported directly by the baler20, may form part of an accumulator or other device (e.g., a wrapping device), or may be configured as a separate vehicle (e.g., a separate wheeled trailer). Various examples below may refer to configurations of the crop-package transfer system30for operation with the baler20. It will be understood, however, that various crop-package transfer systems may also (or alternatively) operate with other balers (or crop-packing devices) or other vehicles.

FIG. 1Bdepicts another example configuration, in which a crop-package transfer system30atrails behind the baler20and is, in turn, trailed by an accumulator34. In some embodiments, the accumulator34may be connected to the crop-package transfer system30asuch that the accumulator may pivot relative to the crop-package transfer system30aas the vehicle train travels over a field. In some embodiments, the crop-package transfer system30amay be integrated with (or rigidly attached to) the accumulator34, with the accumulator and crop-package transfer system30amoving together with respect to the baler20.

FIG. 1Cdepicts still another example configuration, in which a crop-package transfer system30bis disposed between a baler36and a wrapping device38. In such a configuration, bales released from the baler36may fall onto the crop-package transfer system30b, and the device30bmay then lift the bales onto a raised platform of the wrapping device38so that the bales can be wrapped. As depicted, the baler36, the crop-package transfer system30b, and the wrapping device38are integrated into a single platform to be towed by the tractor22. In other embodiments, one or more of the baler36, the crop-package transfer system30b, and the wrapping device38(or other configurations thereof) may be configured as separate platforms, which may be interconnected in various ways.

Referring also toFIG. 2, an example crop-package transfer system30cincludes a support frame40, configured as a rigid metal frame. As depicted, the front end of the support frame40(e.g., the end at which a bale may be received) is disposed to the right. One or more flexible members42(e.g., one or more belts or straps) are secured to the support frame40, extending between front and rear attachment points44and46at the front and rear ends, respectively, of the frame40. The attachment points44and46may be configured as tubing, bars, rollers, beams, brackets, or otherwise. As depicted, the flexible members42extend the full length of the frame40between front and rear attachment points44and46. It will be understood, however, that the flexible members42may extend various other distances between attachment points on the frame40. As depicted inFIG. 2, the flexible members42are rigidly fixed to the frame at the attachment points44and46, such that the flexible members42may lengthen by elastic deformation, but are not extendable through movement (e.g., unwinding) at the attachment points44and46. It will be understood that other configurations are possible.

The flexible members42are attached to the support frame40such that a bale48may be supported on the flexible members42with respect to the support frame40. (The bale48is depicted in solid relief in an initial position and in dotted relief in a later position, after the movement described below.) As depicted, the bale48rests on an upper support surface42aof the flexible members42when the bale48is supported by the flexible members42. As discussed in greater detail below, other portions of a crop-package transfer system30(including the specific system30c) may also support a bale. For example, one or more rigid members of the support frame40(not shown) may also support the bale48, at least in part.

A motive member50(e.g., a bar, roller, or other member) is disposed on an opposite side of the flexible members42from the bale48. In an initial state, as depicted, the motive member50may be disposed below and to the front (i.e., to the right, as depicted) of the bale48. (Like the bale48, the member50is depicted in solid relief in an initial position and in dotted relief in a later position.) An actuator device (not shown) may be configured to move the motive member50rearward with respect to the support frame40, such that the motive member50moves rearward (e.g., in the direction of arrow52) along a side42bof the flexible members42that is opposite the support surface42a. In this way, the motive member50may be caused to impart a rearward motive force to the bale48via the flexible members42. Accordingly, the bale48may be caused to also move rearward with respect to the support frame40(e.g., in the direction of arrow54). In certain embodiments, because the motive member50is disposed along the side42bof the flexible members42and the bale is disposed along the support surface42aof the flexible members42, the motive force applied to the bale48by the motive member50via the flexible members42may cause the bale48to generally move along the flexible members42by rolling rather than sliding. Accordingly, the possibility of damage to the bale surface (or to any wrap material) during transport may be reduced.

As discussed in greater detail below, various types of actuator assemblies may be utilized to move the motive member50(or motive members of other embodiments of the crop-package transfer system30). For example, various embodiments may utilized one or more of a hydraulic assembly, a pneumatic assembly, a spring-loaded or other biasing assembly, a geared or other mechanical assembly, or other configuration of force transmission elements and devices in order to impart a motive force to the motive member and, thereby, to a bale supported by the flexible members. In certain embodiments, an actuator device may be supported by the support frame of the crop-package transfer system. In certain embodiments, an actuator device may be supported by a separate structure, such as the frame of a baler.

In certain embodiments, a motive member may be configured to move a bale vertically upward as well as (or as an alternative to) rearward. Referring also toFIG. 3, for example, a crop-package transfer system30dis configured similarly to the crop-package transfer system30c, with one or more flexible members62attached to a support frame60at front and rear attachment points64and66, such that the flexible members62may support a bale68with respect to the support frame60. (The bale68is depicted in solid relief in an initial position and in dotted relief in a later position, after the movement described below.) As in the bale transfer system30c, a motive member70is disposed on an opposite side of the flexible members62from the bale68, such that when an actuator device (not shown) moves the motive member70, the motive member70imparts a motive force to the bale68via the flexible members62.

As depicted inFIG. 3, the motive member70is configured to be moved by the actuator device (not shown) along a path that extends both rearward and vertically upward (e.g., along arrow72). In this way, the bale68may also be moved both rearward and vertically upward with respect to the support frame60(e.g., along the arcuate path of arrow74).

In certain embodiments, such vertically upward and rearward (or other) movement of a motive member (e.g., the motive member70) may tend to elongate the relevant flexible members with respect to the support frame. Still referring toFIG. 3, for example, as the motive member70is moved from an initial position (depicted in solid relief) and a later position (depicted in dotted relief), the working length of the motive member70between the attachment points64(or as otherwise measured relative to the support frame60) may be required to increase. This may be seen, for example, with reference to an extended configuration62eof the flexible members62. Such lengthening of the working length of the flexible members62may be accomplished in various ways.

In certain embodiments, various flexible members may be configured to elastically elongate, in order to accommodate movement of a motive member. For example, the flexible members62may be configured as rubber (or other) belts, such that the flexible members62may stretch into the extended configuration62ewhen moved by the motive member70. In certain embodiments, various flexible members may be secured to the support frame with an extendable connection, such as a spool or other rolling member. For example, the attachment point66may be configured as a spring-loaded (or other) spool76around which the flexible members62are initially wound. As the motive member70moves the flexible members62toward the extended configuration62e, the flexible members62may accordingly unwind from the spool76in order to increase the effective working length of the flexible members62between the attachment points64and66. As the motive member70is returned to its initial position, the flexible members62may then wind onto the spool76in order to decrease their working length. (In certain embodiments, a similar spool or other device may be provided at the attachment point64.)

In certain embodiments, rather than (or in addition to) being configured to effectively lengthen during operation, various flexible members may be provided with a degree of initial slack to accommodate movement of a motive member. For example, the flexible members62may initially include a degree of slack as indicated by slackened configuration62s. As such, the flexible members62may not need to lengthen (or may lengthen to a reduced degree) when moved to the extended configuration62eby the motive member70.

As depicted inFIGS. 2 and 3, the path of the motive members50and70may include a generally linear path (e.g., as shown by the arrows52and72). In certain embodiments, various motive members may be configured to travel over non-linear paths to move a bale. For example, when pivotally attached to the support frame60with a pivoting arm (not shown), the motive member70may follow a generally arcuate path to move the bale68. In certain embodiments, various linkages of one or more interconnected links may be utilized to prescribe a particular path for a motive member.

Referring also toFIGS. 4A and 4B, another example crop-package transfer system30eincludes a support frame80that is integrally attached to a baler20c. A set of two flexible members82, configured as flexible belts, are fixedly attached to the frame80at a forward attachment point84and are extendably attached to the frame at a rear attachment point86(e.g., configured as a roller or spool). In this way, a bale88ejected from the baler20cby the rearward and vertically upward opening of a gate28c(seeFIG. 4B) may fall onto the flexible members82and be thereby supported by the flexible members82with respect to the support frame80.

Referring in particular toFIG. 4B, a motive member90is configured as a roller supported by two pusher arms92of the baler20c, which are pivotally attached to the body of the baler20c. A chain94(or other attachment member, such as a rope, cable, linkage link, bar, beam, and so on) attaches the pusher arms92to the gate28cof the baler20c, such that when the gate28cmoves over a particular range the chain94transmits motive force to the arms92and, thereby, to the motive member90. Accordingly, during operation, an actuator device, such as the hydraulic actuator78, may swing the gate28cof the baler20crearward and vertically upward in order to release a formed (and wrapped) bale88from baler20c. The bale88may fall from the baler20conto the support frame80, as supported by the flexible members82. As the gate28cpivots open over a particular range (e.g., over a range of movement after the bale has been fully released through the ejection passage96of the baler20c), the chain94is pulled to a taut state, such that the chain94transmits motive force from the gate28cto the arms92and the motive member90. Accordingly, the actuator device (not shown) utilized to open the gate28cto eject the bale88from the baler20cmay also be utilized to provide motive force to the motive member90and thereby move the bale88, via the flexible members82, along the support frame80. An actuator device for moving the gate28cmay include, for example, various hydraulic (or other) actuators, which may be included in the baler20ceven in the absence of a crop-package transfer system.

In certain embodiments, various attributes of an attachment member may be configured to provide particular motive action to the relevant motive member. For example, the length or attachment point of the chain94with respect to the baler gate28cand the arms92may be varied in order to provide particular timing and other characteristics of the movement of the motive member90. As another example, a more complex set of attachment members (e.g., a multi-link linkage) may be utilized in order to provide a particular path of movement (e.g., an arcuate or other path) of the motive member.

Referring again, in particular, toFIG. 4A, the support frame80is configured to include a number of rigid members98extending transverse to the flexible members82, between lateral sides members of the support frame80. The rigid members98may provide various benefits during operation of the crop-package transfer system30e. In certain implementations, the rigid members98may provide some support for the bale88with respect to the support frame80in addition to (or as an alternative to) the support provided by the flexible members82. For example, when the bale88first falls from the baler20conto the support frame80, the rigid members98may provide the primary support structure for the bale88. The flexible members82may then provide support to the bale88primarily when the motive member90is used to move the bale88via the flexible members82. In certain embodiments, the rigid members98may support the bale88during movement of the bale88by the motive member90. For example, as the bale88is rolled rearward along the support frame80by the motive member90and flexible members82, the rigid members98may continue to support a portion of the weight of the bale88with respect to the support frame80and the ground.

As depicted, the rigid members98are configured as metal slats or plates. It will be understood, however, that other configurations are possible. For example, rigid members of a support frame of a crop-package transfer system may be configured as bars or plates, as rollers, or in various other ways. As depicted inFIG. 4A, various spaces100may be provided between the various rigid members98, which may effectively provide various openings between the bale88and the ground, when the bale88is supported by the crop-package transfer system30e. As also discussed below, such spaces100(and the associated openings between the bale88and the ground) may allow material that is shed from the bale88during transport to fall to the ground, rather than excessively accumulate on the crop-package transfer system30e. It can be seen a space102, which may provide similar benefits, is also provided between the flexible members82.

In various embodiments of the disclosed crop-package transfer system, the motive members and flexible members may be configured in a variety of ways. In certain embodiments, a motive member may be configured to travel over a cyclical path, such as an endless loop, in order to impart motive force to a bale via an intervening flexible member. Referring toFIG. 5, for example, a motive member110(e.g., configured as a bar or roller) is attached to an endless belt112. Gears114or other devices may be actuated by an actuator device (not shown), such as an electric motor or a gear train or chain drive driven by a power take-off shaft of a baler, in order to move the motive member110along the path of the belt112. A flexible member116, such as a draped sheet or belt, is disposed between attachment points118and120on a support frame, such that as the gears114move the motive member110via the belt112, the motive member moves a bale122via the flexible member116.

In certain embodiments, a motive member may be mounted on a slide or an extendable support. Referring toFIG. 6, for example, a motive member130is mounted via a platform132to a slide or track134. A flexible member136, such as a belt or strap, is disposed above the motive member130and supported with respect to a support frame (not shown) at attachment points138and140. An actuator device (not shown), such as an electric or hydraulic machine, may be configured to move the platform132along a front-to-rear (and vice versa) path, in order to transport a bale142supported by the flexible member136along the support frame. In certain embodiments, the actuator device may be further configured to move the motive member130vertically, with respect to the support frame, in order to provide a lifting force to the bale142via the flexible member136. For example, a hydraulic cylinder (not shown) may be mounted to the platform132and may be configured to extend, in order to raise the motive member130and the bale142, as the platform132moves rearward (i.e., to the right, as depicted) along the support frame.

In certain embodiments, an end of the flexible member may be attached to the motive member, such that the motive member moves the end of the flexible member as the motive member moves the bale. In the embodiment depicted inFIGS. 7A and 7B, for example, a flexible member150extends between a first (forward) attachment point152at a motive member154and second (rearward) attachment point at a spool158. As the motive member moves vertically upward and rearward (seeFIG. 7B, depicting the configuration of the features fromFIG. 7Ain dotted relief), the flexible member150winds around the spool158, such that excess slack in the flexible member150is taken up by the spool158. When the motive member154moves forward again (e.g., to the position depicted inFIG. 7A), the flexible member150may then re-lengthen by unwinding from the spool158. at rear attachment may wind up belt as the motive member moves, such that the belt shortens. In certain embodiments, a torsion spring160(or other biasing element) may be provided at the spool158, in order to provide appropriate tension to the flexible member150and to cause the spool158to automatically wind the flexible member150during rearward movement of the motive member154.

As another example, in the embodiment depicted inFIGS. 8A and 8B, a flexible member170extends between a first (forward) attachment point174at a motive member176and second (rearward) attachment point178at a roller or cylindrical bar. As depicted, the flexible member170extends around the roller or bar at the attachment point178to a biasing assembly180. Generally, a biasing assembly such as the assembly180may be configured to apply tension to a flexible member in order to urge the flexible member in a particular direction or toward a particular effective working length. As depicted, the biasing assembly180includes a spring182configured to shorten and lengthen, corresponding to a shortening and lengthening, respectively, of the effective working length of the flexible member170. It will be understood, however, that other configurations may be possible. For example, a hydraulic assembly (e.g., a hydraulic actuator and control circuit) may additionally (or alternatively) be included in the biasing assembly180.

In the embodiment depicted inFIGS. 8A and 8B, as the motive member176moves vertically upward and rearward (seeFIG. 8B, depicting the configuration of the features fromFIG. 8Ain dotted relief), the spring182shortens, such that the flexible member170is pulled around the roller or bar at the attachment point178and the effective working length of the flexible member170between the attachment points174and178decreases. When the motive member176moves forward again (e.g., to the position depicted inFIG. 8A), the spring182may then lengthen, such that the effective working length of the flexible member170extends.

As in other examples presented herein, the particular path of a particular motive member may vary depending on the configuration of the motive member, the relevant actuator device, and other components of the crop-package transfer system (or other systems). For example, the motive members154and176ofFIGS. 7 and 8may be moved along linear paths (e.g., by hydraulic actuators or platform-and-slide arrangements), along arcuate paths (e.g., by a pusher arm of a baler or various pivoting linkages) or along various other paths. In this light, although the path of the motive member154is depicted as concave upwards and the path of the motive member176is depicted as concave downward, other paths may be possible for either motive member154and176.

In certain embodiments, an actuator device may transmit force to a motive member via an intermediate member, such that the motive member receives force from the actuator device indirectly. In certain embodiments, such an intermediate member (or a motive member itself) may be pivotally attached to the support frame of the crop-package transfer system (or another structure), such that the motive member is moved along an arcuate path by the actuator device.

Referring also toFIG. 9A, for example, a motive member190is supported on an intermediate member configured as a pivoting arm192that is pivotally attached to a support frame194. (The relevant flexible members are not shown inFIG. 9A, for clarity of presentation.) A hydraulic cylinder196(or other actuator device) is configured to impart a motive force to the arm192in order to pivot the arm192, with respect to the support frame194, between first and second positions (depicted in dotted and solid relief, respectively).

In a similar configuration, referring also toFIG. 9B, a motive member200is supported on an intermediate member is configured as a pivoting arm202that is pivotally attached to a support frame204. (The relevant flexible members are not shown inFIG. 9B, for clarify of presentation.) A cable206(or similar element) extends from the arm202through a pulley arrangement208to an actuator device210(e.g., a powered spool, a biasing assembly, a hydraulic cylinder, and so on). The actuator device210is configured to impart a motive force to the arm202via the cable206and pulley arrangement208, in order to pivot the arm between first and second positions (depicted in dotted and solid relief, respectively). As depicted, the pulley arrangement208and actuator device210are disposed entirely on the support frame204. In certain embodiments, part or all of the pulley arrangement208and actuator device210may be disposed on an associated baler or other structure. For example, a pulley arrangement similar to the pulley arrangement208may be utilized to transmit motive force from a baler gate (see, e.g.,FIG. 4B) to a motive member.

In yet another configuration, referring also toFIG. 9C, a motive member216is supported on an intermediate member configured as a pivoting arm218that is pivotally attached to a support frame220. (The relevant flexible members are not shown inFIG. 9C, for clarity of presentation.) A pusher arm222(or other member) is configured to engage the pivoting arm218, such that when the pusher arm222is moved by an actuator device (not shown), the pusher arm222moves the motive member216via the pivoting arm218. In this way, for example, an upwardly concave path of travel224imparted by the actuator device to the pusher arm222may be transmitted to a bale (not shown) via a downwardly concave path of travel226of the motive member216. The pusher arm222may be pivotally attached to an associated baler (not shown), as in the embodiment ofFIGS. 4A and 4B, or may be attached to various other structures.

Referring also toFIGS. 10 and 11, another example crop-package transfer system30fis depicted. In the embodiment depicted, a support frame230is attached to and supported by the frame of a baler20d, such that the crop-package transfer system30fmoves integrally with the baler20d. A motive member for the system30fis configured as a bar234(e.g., a fixed or rotating bar), over which various belts or other flexible members may be disposed. (The various flexible members are not depicted inFIG. 10for clarity of presentation.) In this way, similarly to the motive members of the embodiments discussed above, the bar234may provide motive force via the various belts (or other flexible members) to a bale received from the baler20d, and may thereby cause the bale to tend to move along with support frame230with a rolling motion.

The bar234is supported with respect to the support frame230with a pivoting intermediate member assembly236, which includes side members238, lateral support240, and side guards242. The side members238are fixed to a pivot bar244, such that an actuator device (e.g., a set of hydraulic actuators228) may be utilized to pivot the assembly236and, thereby, the bar234, with respect to the support frame230. In this way, a bale supported by the support frame230may be moved rearward and, in certain embodiments, vertically upward) along the support frame230by the bar234. In certain embodiments, the lateral support240may also serve to support a bale (e.g., when the bale is first received from the baler20d). In certain embodiments, the side guards242may help to prevent lateral movement of the bale when the bale is supported on the support frame230.

In certain embodiments, including as depicted, the actuator device228for the crop-package transfer system30fmay be configured to pivot a gate28dof the baler20dto release a bale from the baler20d. Attachment members, such as chains250may extend from the gate28dto the intermediate member assembly236, such that as the gate28dmoves over a particular range of motion, the chains250(or other attachment members) may cause the assembly236(and the bar234) also to move. In this way, the hydraulic actuators228(or another actuator device) on the baler20dmay be utilized for moving the gate28das well as to transport bales along the support frame230via the bar234and the various flexible members.

Referring in particular toFIG. 11, a biasing assembly214may be provided to assist in returning the assembly236(and the bar234) from the raised orientation depicted inFIG. 10. In the embodiment depicted, for example, the assembly214includes a bracket232attached to the pivot bar244and to the lateral support240, with a portion232aof the bracket232extending downward and rearward from the pivot bar244. A tension spring246(or other biasing element) is attached to the bracket portion232aand to an attachment point248on the support frame230(or another structure). In this way, when the assembly236is pivoted upward, the spring246elongates and thereby imposes a biasing force on the assembly236to return the assembly236from the raised configuration.

In certain embodiments, multiple motive members may be provided for a crop-package transfer system, with each of the motive members being configured to move a bale over at least part of a path of travel of the bale. In certain embodiments, such motive members may move a bale cooperatively and, at least in part, simultaneously. In certain embodiments, such motive members may move a bale separately (e.g., in sequence).

Referring toFIGS. 12A and 12B, for example, a crop-package transfer system30gwith a support frame260is configured with a pair of motive members252and254, each of which is disposed along a set of flexible belts256opposite a support surface256afor a bale258. The motive members252and254may be supported by a common support structure such as a cradle262(as depicted), or may be supported on the support frame260relatively independently of each other.

As depicted inFIG. 12A, the motive members252and254are configured to each support the bale258, at least in part, when the bale258is received on the device30g. In certain embodiments, however, only one of the motive members252and254may initially support the bale258. As the motive members252and254are moved rearwardly (i.e., to the left, as depicted) along the support frame260, the motive members252and254may continue, for a time, to both support and move the bale258. Eventually, however, only one of the members252and254(or each of the members252and254, but individually and in sequence) may support and move the bale258. As depicted inFIG. 12B, for example, as the motive members are moved rearward along the device30gby an actuator device (not shown), the motive member252(or a part of a cradle262for the member252) may eventually contact a stop264or other structure disposed along the support frame260. This (or a similar event) may cause the cradle262to pivot upwards, such that the motive member254continues to support and move the bale258, but the motive member252does not. (As in various other figures, an initial orientation of various features is indicated inFIG. 12Bwith dotted relief, and a later orientation is indicated with solid relief.) In this regard, for example, the motive member252may be utilized primarily to move the bale258rearwardly along the support frame260, while the motive member254may be utilized to move the bale258both rearwardly along the support frame260and vertically upwards near the rearward portion of the support frame260.

In certain embodiments, various flexible members of a crop-package transfer system may be configured to move relative to one another. This may be useful, for example, in order to tilt, turn, or otherwise move a bale upon the relevant support frame. In certain embodiments, various flexible members may be configured to move relative to one another at the attachment points of the bales to the support frame.

Referring also toFIG. 13A, for example, a first flexible member270may be attached to a support frame272at a first attachment point274with a first attachment device276. The attachment device276may include, for example, a spool, a clamp, a pinned arrangement, or other configuration for attaching the flexible member270to the support frame272. A second flexible member278may be attached to the support frame272at a second attachment point280with a second attachment device282. The attachment device282may also include, for example, a spool, a clamp, a pinned arrangement, or other configuration for attaching the flexible member270to the support frame272. The attachment devices276and282may be configured to move relative to the support frame272, such that the attachment points274and280move relative to one another. As depicted, the attachment devices276and282may be moved vertically up and down, such that the attachment points274and280may be raised and lowered, relative to one another. This may be useful, for example, in order to impart a degree of tilt to a bale284, which may cause the bale284to roll along the support frame272in a slanted or curved path. In other embodiments, the attachment devices276and282may additionally (or alternatively) be configured to move in other ways, including laterally across the support frame272.

As another example, referring also toFIG. 13B, various flexible members of a crop-package transfer system may be configured to extend to different effective working lengths, relative to a support frame and each other. For example, a first flexible member290may be extendably attached to a support frame292at a first spool294, and a second flexible member296may be extendably attached to the support frame292at a second spool298. The flexible members290and296may also be attached, opposite the support frame292, to a trailer300configured to pivot, at a hitch point302, relative to the support frame292. The trailer300may be an accumulator, a wrapping device for crop packages, or another device.

The spools294and298(or various control systems relating thereto) may be configured to allow the flexible members290and296, respectively, to extend to different effective working lengths with respect to the frame292. For example, as a baler (not shown) towing (or otherwise attached to) the support frame292turns in a first direction, the trailer300may pivot relative to the support frame292. Accordingly, the effective distance between attachment points on the trailer300and on the support frame292may be changed by a different amount for the flexible member290than for the flexible member296. As depicted, for example, a right turn by the baler may result in a shorter effective distance between attachment points for the flexible member296than for the flexible member290. In such a case, a resulting relative slackening of the flexible member296(e.g., as facilitated by the spool298not fully capturing the relative excess length of the flexible member296) may help to direct a crop package (not shown inFIG. 13B) at an angle to the support frame292. Accordingly, the crop package may be properly moved onto the trailer300despite the trailer300having pivoted relative to the support frame292.

Relative slackening of either (or both) of the flexible members290and296may be achieved in various ways. In some embodiments, as noted above, the spools294and298may be configured not to fully take up slack in the flexible members290and296, respectively, that results from a pivoting of the trailer. In this way, for example, the effective tension of the flexible member290may be caused to differ from the effective tension of the flexible member296such that a bale supported on and moved by the flexible members290and296may tend to move toward one or the other side of the support frame292. In some embodiments, the spools294and298may be actively controlled to vary the effective length (and tension) of the flexible members290and296, such that a crop package may be appropriately directed (e.g., directed at an angle onto the trailer300). In some embodiments, the spools294and298may be configured to vary the effective length (and tension) of the flexible members290and296, sometimes even in the absence of the trailer300pivoting relative to the support frame292.

As noted above, the support frame of a crop-package transfer system may be configured in various ways. Referring also toFIG. 14, in certain embodiments, a support frame304may include a series of rearwardly extending rigid bars306disposed toward the front end304aof the support frame304. As depicted, for example, the rigid bars306extend over a portion of the length of the support frame304, between lateral supports308and310. Various openings312are provided between the bars306, as may be useful to allow material from a supported bale (not shown) to fall to the ground without excessive accumulation on the support frame304. A motive member configured as a roller314is also provided, with various flexible belts316attached to the roller314and to a bar318at a rear end304bof the support frame304. In the configuration depicted, a bale (not shown) may fall from the baling chamber of a baler (not shown) onto the belts316and the rigid bars306. While the bale is disposed above the rigid bars306, the bale may continue to be supported by the bars306with respect to the support frame304. As the roller314(i.e., the motive member) moves the bale rearwardly, however, the bale may pass over the lateral support310such that the bale is no longer supported by the rigid bars306.

Referring also toFIG. 15, in certain embodiments, a set of relatively tightly stretched (or “tightened”) flexible members may be provided along with a set of relatively slackly supported flexible members. As depicted, for example, a set of tightened belts320is attached to a support frame322at forward and rearward lateral supports324and326. A set of relatively slack belts328is also attached at one end of the belts328to the support frame at the rearward lateral support326, but is attached at the opposite end of the belts328(i.e., near the front of the support frame322) to a motive member configured as a bar330. A further lateral support332of the support frame322may help to prevent the slackened belts328from hanging too far towards the ground.

During an example operation, a bale (not shown) received from a baler (not shown) may initially be supported by the relatively tightly stretched belts320. As an actuator device (not shown) starts to move the bar330to move the bale, the bale may then be supported by both the tightly stretched belts320and the slack belts328, as moved by the bar330. As the bar330continues to move the bale, the bale may continue to be supported by both sets of belts320and328, or may eventually be supported only by the belts328that are moved by the bar330.

It will be understood that other configurations are possible. In certain embodiments, for example, portions330aof the bar330(or another motive member) may extend over a portion of the belts320, such that the bar330is disposed on the same side of the belts320as the support surface320aof the belts320. As another example, the slack and tightened belts328and320may be arranged in other way with respect to each other (and other relevant structures). For example, the slack belts328may be arranged alternately with the tightened belts320, or the depicted locations of the belts320and328, respectively, may be interchanged such that the slack belts are disposed laterally outside of the tightened belts320. As still another example, the slack belts328, although still configured to be moved by the bar330, may be attached to the support frame322at the forward lateral support324, similarly to the tightened belts320.

Various example configurations of a crop-package transfer system, and associated components, are discussed in detail above. It will be understood that other configurations may be possible, in the spirit of this disclosure. It will further be understood that various features from certain examples may be interchanged or combined with various features from other examples, in order to provide alternative embodiments of a crop-package transfer system. For example, the various belt and support arrangements depicted inFIGS. 13-15may be used with various of the motive member and actuator device configurations depicted inFIGS. 4-9.