WRAP FLOOR CONTROL

A wrap floor control system for a wrap floor of a cotton harvester with a cotton module forming chamber includes an actuator that moves the wrap floor and a timer module. A floor engagement module commands the wrap floor actuator to move the wrap floor to an engaged position in response to determining initiation of the wrap cycle and commands the wrap floor actuator to move the wrap floor to a disengaged position in response to the timer module indicating that the timer is equal to or greater than a first threshold value. A belt control module drives a wrap floor belt in response to determining initiation of the wrap cycle.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates to the control of a wrap floor, and more particularly to the control of a wrap floor in a cotton harvester.

BACKGROUND

Round module builders or balers use belts and rollers to manipulate harvested material into a desired form. A round module builder for a cotton harvester typically uses belts under tension running on a series of rollers to compact the harvested material into a cylindrical shape.

SUMMARY

A wrap floor control system for a wrap floor of a cotton harvester with a cotton module forming chamber, the wrap floor control system includes an actuator connected to the wrap floor and configured to move the wrap floor, a timer module configured to (i) in response to determining initiation of a wrap cycle, reset and increment a timer and (ii) compare the timer to a first threshold value. The wrap floor control system also includes a floor engagement module configured to (i) in response to determining initiation of the wrap cycle, command the wrap floor actuator to move the wrap floor to an engaged position and (ii) in response determining that the timer module indicates that the timer is equal to or greater than the first threshold value, command the wrap floor actuator to move the wrap floor to a disengaged position, and a belt control module configured to in response to determining initiation of the wrap cycle, drive a wrap floor belt.

In other features, the wrap floor control system includes a wrap floor clutch. The belt control module is configured to engage the wrap floor clutch to drive the wrap floor belt.

In yet other features, the wrap floor actuator is a hydraulic cylinder.

In other features, the belt control module is configured to stop, in response to determining that the timer module indicates that the timer is equal to or greater than the first threshold value, driving the wrap floor belt.

In other features, the wrap floor control system includes a wrap length module configured to in response to determining initiation of the wrap cycle, calculate a length of wrap fed to the cotton module forming chamber and compare the length of wrap fed to the cotton module forming chamber to a second threshold value. The belt control module is configured to, in response to determining that the wrap length module indicates that the length of wrap fed to the cotton module forming chamber is equal to or greater than the second threshold value, drive the wrap floor belt.

In further features, the wrap floor control system includes a wrap roller speed sensor configured to measure a speed of a wrap roller and generate a signal based on the measured speed. The first length module is configured to calculate the first length based on the signal generated by the wrap roller speed sensor.

In yet further features, the second threshold value corresponds to 18 meters.

In other features, the wrap floor control system includes a label sensor configured to generate a separation label signal in response to detecting a presence of a separation label and a wrap length module configured to (i) calculate, in response to receiving the separation signal, a length of wrap fed to the cotton module forming chamber and (ii) compare the length of wrap fed to the cotton module forming chamber to a second threshold value. The belt control module is configured to, in response to determining that the wrap length module indicates that the length of wrap fed to the cotton module forming chamber is equal to or greater than the second threshold value, stop driving the wrap floor belt.

In other features, the label sensor is a Hall sensor.

A method of controlling a wrap floor of a cotton harvester with a cotton module forming chamber, the method includes determining whether a wrap cycle has been initiated and in response to determining that the wrap cycle has been initiated starting a timer, moving the wrap floor to an engaged position, and driving a wrap floor belt located in the wrap floor. The method also includes comparing the timer to a threshold period, moving, in response to determining that the timer is greater than or equal to the threshold period, the wrap floor to a disengaged position, monitoring an output of a label sensor, calculating, in response to the separation label sensor indicating a presence of a separation label, a first length of wrap fed to the module forming chamber, and stopping, in response to determining that the first length of wrap fed to the module forming chamber is greater than or equal to a first threshold value, the wrap floor belt.

In other features, the threshold period is 5 seconds.

In yet other features, the method includes stopping, in response to determining that the timer is greater than or equal to the threshold period, the wrap floor belt, calculating a second length of wrap fed to the module forming chamber, and driving, in response to determining that the second length of wrap fed to the module forming chamber is greater than or equal to a second threshold value, the wrap floor belt.

In further features, the first threshold value is 0.9 meters or the second threshold value is 18 meters.

In other features, the method includes monitoring a speed of a wrap roller of the cotton harvester. Calculating the second length of wrap fed to the module forming chamber includes calculating the second length based on the speed of the wrap roller.

In other features, the monitoring the speed of a wrap roller includes monitoring the speed of a lower wrap roller.

A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing processor-executable instructions for controlling a wrap floor of a cotton harvester with a cotton module forming chamber, the instructions include determining whether a wrap cycle has been initiated and in response to determining that the wrap cycle has been initiated starting a timer, moving the wrap floor to an engaged position, and driving a wrap floor belt located in the wrap floor. The method also includes comparing the timer to a threshold period, moving, and in response to determining that the timer is greater than or equal to the threshold period the wrap floor to a disengaged position, monitoring an output of a label sensor, calculating, in response to the separation label sensor indicating a presence of a separation label, a first length of wrap fed to the module forming chamber, and stopping, in response to determining that the first length of wrap fed to the module forming chamber is greater than or equal to a first threshold value, the wrap floor belt.

In other features, the instructions further include stopping, in response to determining that the timer is greater than or equal to the threshold period, the wrap floor belt, calculating a second length of wrap fed to the module forming chamber, and driving, in response to determining that the second length of wrap fed to the module forming chamber is greater than or equal to a second threshold value, the wrap floor belt.

In further features, the threshold period is 5 seconds.

In other features, the instructions include monitoring a speed of a wrap roller of the cotton harvester. Calculating the first length of wrap fed to the module forming chamber includes calculating the first length based on the speed of the wrap roller.

In further features, the first threshold value is 0.9 meters or the second threshold value is 18 meters.

A wrap floor control system for a wrap floor of a cotton harvester with a cotton module forming chamber, the wrap floor control system includes an actuator connected to the wrap floor and configured to move the wrap floor, a first timer module configured to in response to determining initiation of a wrap cycle (i) reset and increment a first timer and (i) compare the first timer to a first threshold value. The wrap floor control system further includes a floor engagement module configured to (i) in response to determining initiation of the wrap cycle, command the wrap floor actuator to move the wrap floor to an engaged position and (ii) in response determining that the first timer module indicates that the first timer is equal to or greater than the first threshold value, command the wrap floor actuator to move the wrap floor to a disengaged position. The wrap floor control system also includes a second timer module configured to in response to determining initiation of the wrap cycle (i) reset and increment a second timer and (ii) compare the second timer to a second threshold value and a belt control module configured to (i) in response to determining initiation of the wrap cycle, drive a wrap floor belt and (ii) in response to determining that the second timer module indicates that the second timer is equal to or greater than the second threshold value, stop driving the wrap floor belt.

In other features, the first threshold value is less than the second threshold value.

A method of controlling a wrap floor of a cotton harvester with a cotton module forming chamber, the method includes determining whether a wrap cycle has been initiated and in response to determining that the wrap cycle has been initiated: start a first timer and a second timer, move the wrap floor to an engaged position, and drive a wrap floor belt located in the wrap floor. The method also includes comparing the first timer to a first threshold period and in response to determining that the first timer is greater than or equal to the first threshold period: move the wrap floor to a disengaged position and stop the wrap floor belt. The method further includes comparing the second timer to a second threshold period and stopping, in response to determining that the second timer is greater than or equal to the second threshold period, the wrap floor belt.

A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing processor-executable instructions for controlling a wrap floor of a cotton harvester with a cotton module forming chamber, the instructions include determining whether a wrap cycle has been initiated and in response to determining that the wrap cycle has been initiated: starting a first timer and a second timer, moving the wrap floor to an engaged position, and driving a wrap floor belt located in the wrap floor. The instructions also include comparing the first timer to a first threshold period and in response to determining that the first timer is greater than or equal to the first threshold period: moving the wrap floor to a disengaged position and stopping the wrap floor belt. The instructions further include comparing the second timer to a second threshold period and stopping, in response to determining that the second timer is greater than or equal to the second threshold period, the wrap floor belt.

A wrap floor control system for a wrap floor of a cotton harvester with a cotton module forming chamber, the wrap floor control system includes an actuator connected to the wrap floor and configured to move the wrap floor and a timer module configured to: in response to determining initiation of a wrap cycle, reset and increment a timer and compare the timer to a first threshold value. The system further includes a floor engagement module configured to: in response to determining initiation of the wrap cycle, command the wrap floor actuator to move the wrap floor to an engaged position and in response determining that the timer module indicates that the timer is equal to or greater than the first threshold value, command the wrap floor actuator to move the wrap floor to a disengaged position. The system also includes a wrap length module configured to: in response to determining initiation of the wrap cycle, calculate a length of wrap fed to the cotton module forming chamber and compare the length to a second threshold value and a belt control module configured to: in response to determining initiation of the wrap cycle, drive a wrap floor belt and in response to determining that the wrap length module indicates that the length of wrap is equal to or greater than the second threshold value, stop driving the wrap floor belt.

A method of controlling a wrap floor of a cotton harvester with a cotton module forming chamber, the method includes determining whether a wrap cycle has been initiated and in response to determining that the wrap cycle has been initiated: start a timer, move the wrap floor to an engaged position, and drive a wrap floor belt located in the wrap floor. The method also includes comparing the timer to a threshold period and in response to determining that the timer is greater than or equal to the threshold period move the wrap floor to a disengaged position, calculating a length of wrap fed into the module forming chamber, and stopping, in response to determining that the length of wrap is greater than or equal to a second threshold value, the wrap floor belt.

A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing processor-executable instructions for controlling a wrap floor of a cotton harvester with a cotton module forming chamber, the instructions include determining whether a wrap cycle has been initiated and in response to determining that the wrap cycle has been initiated: start a timer, move the wrap floor to an engaged position, and drive a wrap floor belt located in the wrap floor. The instructions also include comparing the timer to a threshold period and in response to determining that the timer is greater than or equal to the threshold period move the wrap floor to a disengaged position, calculating a length of wrap fed into the module forming chamber, and stopping, in response to determining that the length of wrap is greater than or equal to a second threshold value, the wrap floor belt.

A wrap floor control system for a wrap floor of a cotton harvester with a cotton module forming chamber, the wrap floor control system includes an actuator connected to the wrap floor and configured to move the wrap floor, a timer module configured to (i) in response to determining initiation of a wrap cycle, reset and increment a timer and (ii) compare the timer to a first threshold value, and a floor engagement module configured to (i) in response to determining initiation of the wrap cycle, command the wrap floor actuator to move the wrap floor to an engaged position and (ii) in response determining that the timer module indicates that the timer is equal to or greater than the first threshold value, command the wrap floor actuator to move the wrap floor to a disengaged position. The wrap floor control system also includes a label sensor configured to generate a separation label signal in response to detecting the presence of a separation label, a wrap length module configured to (i) calculate, in response to receiving the separation signal, a length of wrap fed to the cotton module forming chamber and (ii) compare the length of wrap to a second threshold value, and a belt control module configured to (i) in response to determining initiation of the wrap cycle, drive a wrap floor belt and (ii) in response to determining that the wrap length module indicates that the wrap length is equal to or greater than the second threshold value, stop driving the wrap floor belt.

A method of controlling a wrap floor of a cotton harvester with a cotton module forming chamber, the method includes determining whether a wrap cycle has been initiated and in response to determining that the wrap cycle has been initiated: start a timer, move the wrap floor to an engaged position, and drive a wrap floor belt located in the wrap floor. The method also includes comparing the timer to a threshold period and in response to determining that the timer is greater than or equal to the threshold period, move the wrap floor to a disengaged position, monitoring the output of a label sensor, calculating, in response to the separation label sensor indicating the presence of a separation label, a second length of wrap fed to the module forming chamber, and stopping, in response to determining that the second length is greater than or equal to a second threshold value, the wrap floor belt.

A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing processor-executable instructions for controlling a wrap floor of a cotton harvester with a cotton module forming chamber, the instructions include determining whether a wrap cycle has been initiated and in response to determining that the wrap cycle has been initiated: start a timer, move the wrap floor to an engaged position, and drive a wrap floor belt located in the wrap floor. The instructions also include comparing the timer to a threshold period and in response to determining that the timer is greater than or equal to the threshold period, move the wrap floor to a disengaged position, monitoring the output of a label sensor, calculating, in response to the separation label sensor indicating the presence of a separation label, a second length of wrap fed to the module forming chamber, and stopping, in response to determining that the second length is greater than or equal to a second threshold value, the wrap floor belt.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIGS.1and2illustrate an example harvester10. The illustrated harvester10is a cotton harvester15—for example, a cotton picker or a cotton stripper. Although the harvester10is depicted as a cotton stripper and a cotton picker, other types of work vehicles—for example, combine harvesters, tractors, self-propelled sprayers, and other types of off-road work machines—are contemplated by this disclosure.

The harvester10includes a chassis20. The illustrated chassis20is supported by front ground engaging members25and rear ground engaging members30. Although the front ground engaging members25and rear ground engaging members30of the harvester10are depicted as wheels, other supports are contemplated—for example, tracks. The harvester10is adapted for movement through a field35to perform a task, such as harvesting crops. As examples only, harvester10may be configured to harvest cotton, corn, soybeans, canola, stover, hay, alfalfa, or other agricultural crops. An operator station40is supported by the chassis20.

An operator interface45is positioned in the operator station40. In some implementations, the operator interface45includes a display screen—for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light emitting diode (LED) screen, an organic LED (OLED) screen, or a CRT display. The display screen of the operator interface45may present, via a graphical user interface (GUI), various features and/or parameters of the harvester10. In various implementations, the operator interface45may include one or more user input devices—for example, buttons, switches, touch screens, and/or levers. The operator of the harvester10may adjust various operating parameters of the harvester10via the operator interface45—for example, by actuating one or more of the user input devices.

Referring toFIG.2, a power module50may be supported below the chassis20. The power module may be an engine55that drives a hydraulic motor60or a mechanical drive65to power a variable pitch fan70. An operator may set a minimum power for the power module50from the operator interface45. The operator may also set a minimum engine speed from the operator interface45. Water, lubricant, and fuel tanks, indicated generally at75, may be supported on the chassis20.

A harvesting structure80is coupleable to the chassis20. The illustrated harvesting structure80is configured to remove cotton from the field35. The harvesting structure80may be a cotton stripper header85(FIG.1), one or more cotton picking units90(FIG.2), or another harvesting structure. Alternatively, the harvesting structure80may be configured to remove corn or another crop—for example, the harvesting structure80may a corn header or a draper header (not shown).

With reference toFIGS.1and2, an air duct system95is coupleable to the harvesting structure80. A round module builder105is coupleable to the air duct system95. The illustrated round module builder105includes a cleaner108that cleans the cotton harvested from the cotton stripper header85by removing trash and debris. With reference toFIG.2, the round module builder105includes an accumulator110that is configured to receive cotton, or other crop, harvested by the cotton-picking units90.

With continued reference toFIG.2, a feeder115is coupleable to the chassis20. The feeder115is configured to receive cotton, or other crop, from the accumulator110. The feeder115includes a plurality of rollers120configured to compress the cotton, or other crop, and transfer the cotton, or other crop, to a baler125of the round module builder105.

As shown inFIG.2, the harvester10includes a wrap floor control module150, a wrap floor actuator155, a wrap floor clutch160, a separation label sensor165, and a wrap roller speed sensor170. The wrap floor actuator155controls movement of a wrap floor of the harvester10. The wrap floor clutch160selectively powers belts located in the wrap floor.

The separation label sensor165generates a signal that indicates the presence of a separation label on the wrap. In various implementations, the separation label sensor165is a Hall sensor—i.e., a Hall effect sensor. In other implementations, the separation label sensor165may be an optical sensor or another sensor capable of detecting the presence a label on a wrap portion. The operator interface45, the wrap floor control module150, the wrap floor actuator155, the wrap floor clutch160, the separation label sensor165, and the wrap roller speed sensor170may exchange data—for example, parameters and instructions—via a network175, such as a controller area network (CAN). The network175may include one or more data buses.

Referring toFIG.3, a module-forming chamber185may have a plurality of endless belts190define the circumference of the module-forming chamber185. The plurality of endless belts190are supported in a side-by-side relationship across a support roll arrangement including a plurality of fixed rolls and a plurality of movable rolls. Specifically, proceeding clockwise from a chamber inlet195where crop enters the module-forming chamber185, the fixed rolls include a lower drive roll200, a first separation roll205, a second separation roll210, an upper drive roll215, an upper front frame roll220, an upper rear frame roll225, an upper front gate roll230, an upper rear gate roll235, a lower rear gate roll240, and a lower front gate roll245all coupled for rotation within the round module builder105.

InFIG.3, a conventional pair of transversely spaced belt tensioning or rockshaft arms250are pivotally mounted to a belt tensioning arm pivot255. The plurality of movable rolls includes a first movable roll260, a second movable roll265, a third movable roll270, and a fourth movable roll275, which extend between and have opposite ends, respectively, rotatably coupled to the transversely-spaced belt tensioning arms250. As illustrated, one or more of the fixed rolls are driven to cause the plurality of endless baler belts190to be driven, with the drive direction being such as to cause the incoming cotton, or other crop, to travel counterclockwise as it is added as a spiral layer to a growing round module100. As the round module100grows within the module-forming chamber185, the transversely spaced belt tensioning arms250rotate counterclockwise until a round module100having a predetermined diameter has been formed in the module-forming chamber185.

Along the rear portion of the round module builder105may be a wrapping assembly90that houses one or more wrap roll280. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG.3, only one wrap roll280is shown positioned in the wrapping assembly90. However, the wrapping assembly90is configured to stack multiple wrap rolls280on top of one another within a wrap roll hopper282. The bottom most wrap roll280may rest on a front carry roller284and a rear carry roller286. The front and rear carry rollers284,286may be coupled to a bracket (not particularly shown) that allows the front and rear carry rollers284,286to move along a linear path towards, and away from, a lower wrap roller288.

The wrap roll280may be a wrap material sized to cover the exterior circumference of a round module100. The wrap material may transition from the wrap roll280, partially around the front carry roller284, between the front carry roller284and the lower wrap roller288, partially around the lower wrap roller188and to the lower front gate roll245. Once the wrap material enters the module forming chamber185at the lower front gate roll245, the wrap material may follow the endless baler belts190about the circumference of the round module100until the outer periphery is substantially covered with wrap material. For hay and forage balers, a cutting assembly (not specifically shown) may then cut the wrap material from the wrap roll and the wrap material may adhere to the round module to substantially maintain its form once ejected from the module forming chamber. In the illustrated embodiment, the wrap material is sized for individual portions from the wrap roll280that do not require cutting device but are sized to adhere to the round module100to maintain its form once ejected from the module forming chamber185.

In one aspect of the wrapping assembly90illustrated inFIG.3, the wrap material is stretched as it extends between the lower wrap roller288and the lower front gate roll245. More specifically, one or more of the front and rear carry rollers284,286and the lower wrap roller288may be powered to feed wrap material from the wrap roll280to the module forming chamber185. Further, the wrap material may be pinched between the front and rear carry rollers284,286and the lower wrap roller288as it is fed from the wrap roll280to the module forming chamber185.

The powered roller284,286,288may send the wrap material toward the lower front gate roll245at a feed speed. The feed speed may be slightly less than the speed required to match the rotation speed of the round module100. In one non-limiting example, the round module may have a twenty-three foot circumference and thereby require approximately twenty-three linear feet of wrap material per rotation. However, the wrapping assembly90may only have a feed speed of twenty-two linear feet per rotation. In this embodiment, as the wrap material transitions from the wrap roll280to the module forming chamber185, the wrap material is stretched as it moves between the lower wrap roller288and the lower front gate roll245.

Stretching the wrap material as it transitions from the wrapping assembly90to the module forming chamber185may provide for a tightly packed round module100that has a high density and therefor transports a large amount of harvested crop. Further, the wrap material may compact the round module100so that it maintains the proper form. Properly covering the outer surface of the round module100may also inhibit moister from penetrating the outer surface of the round module100. However, if the wrap material is not evenly distributed about the outer surface, the round module100may lose form and fall apart or become saturated with water or the like.

In one aspect of the embodiment illustrated inFIG.3, the lower wrap roller288may be rotationally coupled to the round module builder105at a first wall and a second wall of baler front32or the baler gate28. As the wrap material is stretched between the lower wrap roller288and the lower front gate roll245, the central portion of the lower wrap roller288may deflect towards the lower front gate roll245responsive to the stretch force applied by the wrap material. This deflection or bowing of the lower wrap roller288may cause uneven distribution of the wrap material onto the round module100. More particularly, the center portion of the wrap material may be tighter than the edge portions as the wrap material is distributed to the surface of the round module100or vice versa.

Referring back toFIG.2, after the round module100is formed and wrapped, a module handling system330may receive the round module100. The module handling system330temporarily supports the round module100and then discharges the round module100from the harvester10.

The harvester10is adapted for movement through a field35to harvest cotton. In operation, the harvester10is driven through the field35to harvest cotton or other crop. InFIG.2, the illustrated harvesting structure90picks cotton from cotton plants in the field35. InFIG.1, the harvesting structure85strips the cotton from the cotton plants. Cotton is transferred to the accumulator110via the air duct system95. The accumulator110holds the cotton until a predetermined cotton level is reached and then transfers the cotton to the feeder115. In an implementation, the accumulator110transfers cotton to the feeder115approximately four times for each round module100produced. When the feeder115receives cotton, the plurality of rollers120are activated to distribute the cotton to a feed conveyor belt that transfers the cotton to the round module builder105. The round module builder105uses the endless baler belts190to compress the cotton while forming the module100.

After the round module builder105receives compressed cotton, the plurality of endless baler belts190rotate the cotton into the round module100. After the round module builder105receives sufficient cotton from the feeder115, the round module may be wrapped and the round module100can be ejected onto the module handling system330. The module handling system330supports the round module100and then discharges it from the harvester10.

Referring now toFIGS.4,5A, and5B, a wrapping assembly302is illustrated. More specifically, the wrapping assembly302may have a wrap roll hopper304similar to the wrap roll hopper282described above. The wrap roll hopper304may provide for storage for a plurality of wrap rolls wherein the bottom-most wrap roll contacts an upper front wrap roller306and a carry roller308. Both the upper front wrap roller306and the carry roller308may be rotationally coupled to the first and second walls of32or28of the round module builder105. The upper front wrap roller306may be rotationally coupled to the first and second side walls of32or28about a first axis310and the carry roller308may be rotationally coupled to the first and second side walls of32or28about a carry axis312. Both the first axis310and the carry axis312may be defined through a fixed portion of the first and second side wall of32or28. The first axis310and the carry axis312may not move relative to the first and second side walls of32or28or otherwise relative to the round module builder105.

The wrapping assembly302may also have a lower wrap roller314that is positionable adjacent to the upper front wrap roller306. The lower wrap roller314may be rotationally coupled between a first bracket316and second bracket318. The first bracket316may be pivotally coupled to the first wall of32or28about a bracket axis320and the second bracket may be pivotally coupled to the second wall of32about the bracket axis320.

The lower wrap roller314may be pivotal about the bracket axis320between a first position (as shown inFIG.4A), and a second position. In the first position, the outer surface of the lower wrap roller314may be positioned adjacent to the outer surface of the upper front wrap roller306. More specifically, in the first position the wrap material may be pinched between the upper front wrap roller306and the lower wrap roller314at a pinch point406(seeFIG.4A). Pinching the wrap material between the upper front wrap roller306and the lower wrap roller314allows the rotation speed of the rollers306,314to partially control the feed speed as is described in more detail below.

In various implementations, the outer surface of the upper front wrap roller306and the outer surface of the lower wrap roller314may be coated in a material that grips the wrap material such as rubber or the like. The outer surface of the rollers306,314may then control the feed speed of the wrap material to the lower front gate roll245without allowing the wrap material to slip there between. In other words, the outer surface of the rollers306,314may frictionally engage the wrap material as it is pinched between the respective rollers306,314at the pinch point406and as it travels from the wrap roll to the module forming chamber185. In this configuration, the stretch force generated on the wrap material between the lower front gate roll245and the lower wrap roller314may be insufficient to cause the wrap material to slip between the upper front wrap roller306and the lower wrap roller314.

In one implementation, a biasing member (not illustrated) such as a spring or the like may be positioned between the first and second bracket316,318and the corresponding first and second walls of32or28to pivot the lower wrap roller314about the bracket axis320towards the upper front wrap roller306. The force applied to the brackets316,318by the biasing member may increase the pinch force on the wrap material and thereby reduce the likeliness of the wrap material slipping there between during heavy stretch forces.

The biasing member may be any type of spring or the like known in the art and is not limited to any particular type. More specifically, the biasing member may be generated by any type of mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, electrical or the like force. In one non-limiting example, the biasing member402is a coil spring. In another example, the biasing member is a hydraulic, pneumatic, or electrical actuator. A person having skill in the relevant art understands the many different types of biasing members402that can be utilized to bias a pivoting member about an axis and this disclosure is not limited to any particular one.

Referring now toFIGS.6,7, and8, a first drive system502is illustrated. The first drive system502may have a drive sprocket504coupled to a driven sprocket506via a chain, belt, or the like508. Further, a tensioner510may be positioned partially between the drive and driven sprocket504,506to ensure the proper chain tension is maintained between the sprockets504,506. In one non-limiting embodiment, the drive sprocket504may be rotationally coupled to the lower rear gate roll240or any other roll of the module forming chamber185. In this embodiment, the ratio of teeth of the sprockets504,506may dictate the feed speed of the wrapping assembly302relative to the rotation speed of the rolls of the module forming chamber185. In another non-limiting embodiment, the drive sprocket504may be rotationally coupled to a second drive system509which may be any type of system such as mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, electrical or the like that engages and rotates the drive sprocket504.

As shown inFIGS.6,7, and8, one form of the second drive system509includes a first roller511offset a second roller517and a tensioner belt515that wraps around the first and second rollers511and517to drive a shaft521of the drive sprocket523. The belt is tensioned by the roller513when the wrap floor engages. In various other implementations the second drive system509includes the wrap floor clutch160that selectively provides rotational power the shaft521. In yet other implementations, the second drive system509may include a dedicated or shared rotary actuator—for example, an electric or hydraulic motor—a friction wheel driven wrap system, or one or more gears that engage shaft521or drive sprocket523to generate the input motion.

InFIG.8, the first roller511includes a shaft521operationally attached to a drive sprocket523that is coupled to a driven sprocket525through a series of teeth on each of the sprockets523,525that engage each other. The driven sprocket525includes a shaft527that is operationally connected to a rear belt sheave529. The rear belt sheave529receives a tensioner belt531that wraps around the rear belt sheave529and a wrap floor sheave533to drive a shaft535of a second wrap floor sheave537. A wrap floor system520, further described below, includes one of the second wrap floor sheaves537associated with each wrap floor belt wherein each of the second wrap floor sheaves537is assembled with the shaft535that extends across a width of the wrap floor system520.

The driven sprocket506may have a shaft (not particularly shown) coupling the driven sprocket506to a drive gear512of the first drive system502. The drive gear512may further be in contact with the upper front wrap roller306that is in turn selectively in contact with the lower wrap roller314.

When the rollers306,314are in the first position, the rotational movement of the lower rear gate roll240rotates the drive sprocket504. The rotation of the drive sprocket504is transferred to the driven sprocket506through the chain508. From the driven sprocket506the shaft rotates the drive gear512. The drive gear512rotates the corresponding upper front wrap roller306and the lower wrap roller314. Rotation of the drive sprocket504also activates the second drive system509such that the shaft535and the second wrap floor sheave537rotate.

While the drive gear512is described as powered through a mechanical linkage to the lower rear gate roll240, the drive gear512or the upper front wrap roller306and the lower wrap roller314may be independently powered. More specifically, hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, or the like motors may be coupled directly to any one of the above-mentioned rollers, gears, or sprockets to provided rotational power thereto. A controller—for example a BIC—may communicate with the motor of the respective roller, gear, or sprocket to dictate the feed speed generated by the wrapping assembly302.

The wrap speed sensor170measures a speed of a wrap roller of the wrapping assembly and generates a signal that represents the speed of the wrap roller. In various implementations, the wrap speed sensor170measures the speed of the lower wrap roller314and generates a signal that indicates the rotational speed of the lower wrapper roller314. In other implementations, the wrap speed sensor170measures the speed of the upper front wrap roller306or another roller in the wrapping assembly302.

A wrap floor520is positioned partially between the wrapping assembly302and the module forming chamber185. The wrap floor520may have a plurality of continuous wrap floor belts522or the like positioned thereon. The wrap floor belts522and the wrap floor520may guide the wrap material, in part, from the wrap roll to the lower front gate roll245and ultimately into the module forming chamber185.

The carry roller308may not be directly coupled to the first drive system502. Rather, the carry roller308may be free to rotate as the wrap roll placed thereon rotates. In other words, the carry roller308may be an idler roller that supports the wrap roll while simultaneously allowing the wrap roll to rotate as wrap material is fed to the module forming chamber185. Further, the carry roller308may be spaced from the upper front wrap roller306to provide a cradle or the like between the rollers306,308to allow the wrap roll to sit thereon. The rollers306,308may maintain the proper positioning of the wrap roll while facilitating rotation as directed by the first drive system502.

As further illustrated inFIGS.5A,5B, and8, the wrap floor system520includes a plurality of wrap floor frame supports130which provides support for the wrap floor belts522, which are located beneath the round module builder or endless baler belts190which move along the wrap floor belt522, the lower rear gate roll240, and the lower front gate roll245, as would be understood by those skilled in the art. The wrap floor520moves generally longitudinally along the length of the harvester10in response to wrap floor actuator155. Wrap is moved between the wrap floor belt522and the module builder belt to wrap the cotton to provide a cotton module.

The wrap floor520is configured to move longitudinally as well as to rotate about a four bar linkage having a first axis of rotation140, a second axis of rotation142, a third axis of rotation144, and a fourth axis of rotation146. The first axis of rotation140is located at one end of a bar148which is rotatably coupled to a stationary frame member151. The second axis of rotation is located at another end of the bar148. The third axis of rotation144is located at one end of a bar152rotatably coupled to a second bar154. The fourth axis of rotation146is located at another end of the bar152which also identifies a rotation axis of the second bar154.

The second bar154extends from the axis146to the bar118and is coupled to the wrap floor actuator155which is coupled to a fixed bracket158. Movement of the wrap floor actuator155engages and disengages bar118and thus the wrap floor system520with the endless baler belts190.

In some implementations, the wrap floor actuator155is a hydraulic actuator which is coupled to a valve (not shown), the function of which is controlled by the wrap floor control module150, which when instructed, moves the hydraulic cylinder to start a wrap cycle.

Movement of the wrap floor520, which includes the frame supports130, is generally along a longitudinal axis defined by the plane of the wrap floor belt522. The second bar154, however, moves in both a longitudinal direction as well as an upward or inclined direction with the lower rear gate roll240due to its four bar linkage configuration. The wrap floor actuator155pushes the second bar154, and consequently the bar118forward to the engaged position illustrated inFIGS.5A and5B. When the wrap is completed, the wrap floor actuator155pulls the bar118to a disengaged position and the wrap floor system520returns to an unengaged position.

The bar118also supports a plurality of wrap fingers192which are fixedly coupled to and extend from the bar118. Upward movement of the bar118directs the wrap finger192upwardly as well.

The second drive system509uses a positive drive source. In the illustrated implementations, the wrap floor system520includes a single set of wrap floor belts522. In other implementations, the wrap floor system520may include two or more sets of wrap floor belts that work together. The second drive system509does not require any friction contact between the wrap floor belts522and the baler belts190to generate rotation of the wrap floor belts520. An individual stand-alone motor or any other type of drive input could be used to drive the wrap floor system520and the wrap floor belts522.

Illustrated inFIG.10is yet another embodiment of a second drive system909. The second drive system909also uses an input from the rear lower gate roller240(not illustrated) to generate rotation. The second drive system909includes an electric clutch1000—for example, the wrap floor clutch160. When the wrap cycle begins, an electrical signal (current) is sent to the electric wrap clutch to engage the clutch. The clutch then creates input rotation through a telescoping driveshaft to the secondary wrap floor drive turning the wrap floor belts522(not illustrated). The telescoping driveshaft is to allow the wrap floor to move through its range during the engage and disengaged motions. When the electrical signal is turned off, the clutch disengages halting the rotation of the secondary drive and the main wrap floor belts. In various implementations, the wrap clutch is directly driven through a set of gears as the direction needs to be reversed so the baler belts and wrap floor belts are moving in the same direction. A set of belts, chain and sprocket, or some other type of drive to generate the input to the clutch from a different location in the round module builder105could be used.

FIG.11is a functional block diagram of an example implementation of a wrap floor control system1100. In various implementations, the wrap floor control system1100includes a wrap floor control module1150, the wrap floor actuator155, the wrap floor clutch160, the separation label sensor165, and the wrap roller speed sensor170. The wrap floor control module1150is one implementation of the wrap floor control module150and may include a timer module1110, a first wrap length module1120, a second wrap length module1140, a floor engagement module1155, and a belt control module1160.

In various examples, the wrap floor control module1150may be a standalone module in the harvester10, as illustrated in the example ofFIG.2. In other examples, at least one of the timer module1110, the first wrap length module1120, the second wrap length module1140, the floor engagement module1155, and the belt control module1160may be implemented independently or with one or more other modules of the harvester10—for example, a baler interface controller (BIC).

The timer module1110generates a timer value that indicates the amount of time that has elapsed since a wrap cycle was initiated. In response to receiving a signal that indicates initiation of a wrap cycle, the timer module1110resets a timer to zero and then begins to increment the timer. The timer module1110compares the timer value to a period (or value) and outputs the results of the comparison to the floor engagement module1155and the belt control module1160. In some implementations, the period is a predetermined period. For example, the period may be or correspond to approximately 5 seconds. As another example, the period may be or correspond to between 5 and 20 seconds. In other implementations, the period may be set to an initial period—for example, 5 seconds or 15 seconds—and an operator of the harvester10, via the operator interface45, may change the period to another suitable period.

The first wrap length module1120receives a signal from the wrap roller speed sensor170. In various implementations, the signal from the wrap roller speed sensor170indicates the speed of the wrap roller in revolutions per minute (RPMs). The circumference of the wrap roller is stored in the first wrap length module1120. Based on the signal received from the wrap roller speed sensor170, the first wrap length module1120calculates the length of wrap fed to the module forming chamber185since the wrapping cycle was initiated.

In response to receiving a signal that indicates initiation of the wrap cycle, the first wrap length module1120resets a first measured length to zero. The first wrap length module1120then updates the value of the first measured length based on the received wrap roller speed signal, the circumference of the roller, and the amount of time that has elapsed since the value of the first measured length was last updated. The first wrap length module1120continues to update the first wrap length until it receives a signal that indicates that a new wrap cycle has been initiated.

The first wrap length module1120compares the first measured length to a first threshold value and outputs the results of the comparison to the belt control module1160. In some implementations, the first threshold value is a predetermined length. For example, the first threshold value may be or correspond to 18 meters. As another example, the first threshold value may be or corresponds to 16-24 meters. In other implementations, the first threshold value may be set to an initial value—for example, 18 meters—and an operator of the harvester10, via the operator interface45, may change the first threshold value to another suitable length.

Similar to the first wrap length module1120, the second wrap length module1140receives the wrap roller speed signal from the wrap roller speed sensor170and stores the circumference of the wrap roller. In response to receiving a signal that indicates the presence of a separation label, the second wrap length module1140resets a second measured length to zero. The second wrap length module1140then updates the value of the second measured length based on the received wrap roller speed signal, the circumference of the roller, and the amount of time that has elapsed since the value of the second measured length was last updated.

The second wrap length module1140compares the second measured length to a second threshold value and outputs the results of the comparison to the belt control module1160. In some implementations, the second threshold value is a predetermined length. For example, the second threshold value may be or correspond to 0.9 meters. As another example, the second threshold value may be or correspond to 0.5-1.5 meters. In other implementations, the second threshold value may be set to an initial value—for example, 0.9 meters—and an operator of the harvester10, via the operator interface45, may change the second threshold value to another suitable length.

In some implementations, the first wrap length module1120and the second wrap length module1140may be separate modules in the wrap floor control module1150, as illustrated inFIG.11. In other examples, the wrap floor control module1150may include a length module1145that includes both the first wrap length module1120and the second wrap length module1140.

The floor engagement module1155generates one or more signals that control movement of the wrap floor. In response to receiving a signal that indicates initiation of a wrap cycle, the floor engagement module1155outputs a signal that causes the wrap floor to engage. Conversely, in response to receiving a signal that indicates the period of time has elapsed since the wrap cycle was initiated, the floor engagement module1155outputs a signal that causes the wrap floor to disengage. As shown inFIG.11, the floor engagement module1155outputs the generated signal to the wrap floor actuator155.

The belt control module1160generates one or more signals that control the movement of the wrap floor belts. In response to either receiving a signal that indicates initiation of a wrap cycle or determining that the first wrap length module1120indicates that the first length of wrap has been fed to the module forming chamber185, the belt control module1160generates a signal that causes the wrap floor belts to be driven. In response determining that either the timer module1110indicates that the period of time has elapsed since the wrap cycle was initiated or the second wrap length module1120indicates that the second length of the wrap portion has been fed to the module forming chamber185, the belt control module1160generates a signal that causes the wrap floor belts to stop.

As shown inFIG.11, the belt control module1160outputs a signal to the wrap floor clutch160that causes the wrap floor clutch160to either engage or disengage. In other implementations, the belt control module1160outputs the generated control signal to a motor that drives that wrap floor belts.

FIG.12is a flowchart depicting an example method of controlling a wrap floor of the harvester10, such as the wrap floor system520. In an example implementation, control may be performed by the wrap floor control module1150. In other implementations, control may be performed by a baler interface controller (BIC) or another controller of the harvester10.

Control begins at1205ofFIG.12upon initiation of a wrap cycle. At1205, control engages the wrap floor and drives the wrap floor belt. For example, the floor engagement module1155commands the wrap floor actuator155to move the wrap floor into an engaged position and the belt control module1160engages the wrap floor clutch160. At1205, control also initializes and starts a timer (Timer) and sets a first measured length of wrap (First_Length) to zero. Control continues with1210.

At1210, control calculates the length of wrap fed to the module forming chamber185and updates the first measured length of wrap (First_Length). For example, the first length module1120updates the first measured length based on the signal received from the wrap roller speed sensor170. At1215, control determines whether the value of the timer (Timer) is greater than or equal to a threshold period of time. For example, the timer module1110indicates that the timer value is greater than or equal to the stored period. If so, control transfers to1220; otherwise, control returns to1210.

At1220, control disengages the wrap floor and stops driving the wrap floor belt. For example, the floor engagement module1155commands the wrap floor actuator155to move the wrap floor into a disengaged position and the belt control module1160disengages the wrap floor clutch160. Control continues with1225, where control calculates the length of wrap fed to the module forming chamber185and updates the first measured length of wrap (First_Length). Control then progresses to1230.

At1230, control determines whether the first measured length of wrap (First_Length) is greater than or equal to a first threshold length. For example, the first length module1120indicates that the first measured length of wrap is greater than or equal to the first threshold value. If so, control progresses to1235; otherwise, control returns to1225.

At1235, control drives the wrap floor belt. For example, the belt control module1160engages the wrap floor clutch160. At1240, control monitors for the presence of a separation label on the wrap being fed to the module forming chamber185. For example, the second length module1140monitors the signal from the separation label sensor165. At1245, control determines whether a separation label is detected. If so, control continues with1250; otherwise, control returns to1240.

At1250, control resets a second measured length of wrap (Second_Length). For example, the second length module1140sets the second measured length to zero. At1255, control calculates the length of wrap fed to the module forming chamber185and updates the second measured length of wrap (Second_Length). Control continues with1260.

At1260, control determines whether the second measured length of wrap is greater than or equal to a second threshold length. For example, the second length module1140indicates that the second measured length of wrap is greater than or equal to the second threshold value. If so, control progresses to1265; otherwise, control returns to1255.

At1265, control stops driving the wrap floor belt. For example, the belt control module1160disengages the wrap floor clutch160. Control then ends.

FIG.13is a functional block diagram of an example implementation of a wrap floor control system1300. In various implementations, the wrap floor control system1300includes a wrap floor control module1350, the wrap floor actuator155, the wrap floor clutch160, and the wrap roller speed sensor170. The wrap floor control module1350is another implementation of the wrap floor control module150and may include a first timer module1312, a second timer module1314, the floor engagement module1155, and a belt control module1360.

In various examples, the wrap floor control module1350may be a standalone module in the harvester10, as illustrated in the example ofFIG.2. In other examples, at least one of the first timer module1312, the second timer module1314, the floor engagement module1155, and the belt control module1360may be implemented independently or with one or more other modules of the harvester10—for example, a baler interface controller (BIC).

The first timer module1312generates a timer value that indicates the amount of time that has elapsed since a wrap cycle was initiated. In response to receiving a signal that indicates initiation of a wrap cycle, the first timer module1312resets a first timer to zero and then begins to increment the first timer. The first timer module1312compares the first timer value to a first period (or value) and outputs the results of the comparison to the floor engagement module1155. In some implementations, the first period is a predetermined period. For example, the first period may be or correspond to approximately 5 seconds. In other implementations, the first period may be set to an initial period—for example, 5 seconds—and an operator of the harvester10, via the operator interface45, may change the first period to another suitable period.

Similar to the first timer module1312, the second timer module1314generates a timer value that indicates the amount of time that has elapsed since a wrap cycle was initiated. In response to receiving the signal that indicates initiation of a wrap cycle, the second timer module1314resets a second timer to zero and then begins to increment the second timer. The second timer module1314compares the second timer value to a second period (or value) and outputs the results of the comparison to the belt control module1360. In some implementations, the second period is a predetermined period. For example, the second period may be or correspond to approximately 15 seconds. In other implementations, the second period may be set to an initial period—for example, 15 seconds—and an operator of the harvester10, via the operator interface45, may change the second period to another suitable period.

In some implementations, the first timer module1312and the second timer module1314may be separate modules in the wrap floor control module1350, as illustrated inFIG.13. In other examples, the wrap floor control module1350may include a timer module1310that includes both the first timer module1312and the second timer module1314.

The belt control module1360generates a signal to drive the wrap floor belts in response to receiving a signal that indicates initiation of a wrap cycle. The belt control module1360generates a signal to stop driving the wrap floor belts to be driven in response to determining the second timer module1312indicates that the second period of time has elapsed since the wrap cycle was initiated.

FIG.14is a flowchart depicting another example method of controlling a wrap floor of the harvester10, such as the wrap floor system520. In an example implementation, control may be performed by the wrap floor control module1350. In other implementations, control may be performed by a baler interface controller (BIC) or another controller of the harvester10.

Control begins at1410ofFIG.14upon initiation of a wrap cycle. At1410, control engages the wrap floor and drives the wrap floor belt. For example, the floor engagement module1155commands the wrap floor actuator155to move the wrap floor into the engaged position and the belt control module1360engages the wrap floor clutch160. At1405, control also initializes both a first timer (First_Timer) and a second timer (Second_Timer). Control continues with1420.

At1420, control determines whether the value of the first timer (First_Timer) is greater than or equal to a first threshold period of time. For example, the first timer module1312indicates that the first timer value is greater than or equal to the stored first period. If so, control transfers to1430; otherwise, control returns to1420.

At1430, control disengages the wrap floor. For example, the floor engagement module1155commands the wrap floor actuator155to move the wrap floor into the disengaged position. Control continues with1440, control determines whether the value of the second timer (Second_Timer) is greater than or equal to a second threshold period of time. For example, the second timer module1314indicates that the second timer value is greater than or equal to the stored second period. If so, control transfers to1450; otherwise, control returns to1440.

At1450, control stops driving the wrap floor belt. For example, the belt control module1360disengages the wrap floor clutch160. Control then ends.

FIG.15is a functional block diagram of an example implementation of a wrap floor control system1500. In various implementations, the wrap floor control system1500includes a wrap floor control module1550, the wrap floor actuator155, the wrap floor clutch160, and the wrap roller speed sensor170. The wrap floor control module1550is yet another implementation of the wrap floor control module150and may include a timer module1510, a wrap length module1520, the floor engagement module1155, and a belt control module1560.

In various examples, the wrap floor control module1550may be a standalone module in the harvester10, as illustrated in the example ofFIG.2. In other examples, at least one of the timer module1510, the wrap length module1520, the floor engagement module1155, and the belt control module1560may be implemented independently or with one or more other modules of the harvester10—for example, a baler interface controller (BIC).

The timer module1510generates a timer value that indicates the amount of time that has elapsed since a wrap cycle was initiated. In response to receiving a signal that indicates initiation of a wrap cycle, the timer module1510resets a timer to zero and then begins to increment the timer. The timer module1510compares the timer value to a period (or value) and outputs the results of the comparison to the floor engagement module1155. In some implementations, the period is a predetermined period. For example, the period may be or correspond to approximately 5 seconds. In other implementations, the period may be set to an initial period—for example, 5 seconds—and an operator of the harvester10, via the operator interface45, may change the period to another suitable period.

The wrap length module1520receives a signal from the wrap roller speed sensor170. The circumference of the wrap roller is stored in the wrap length module1520. Based on the signal received from the wrap roller speed sensor170, the wrap length module1520calculates the length of wrap fed to the module forming chamber185since the wrapping cycle was initiated.

In response to receiving a signal that indicates initiation of the wrap cycle, the wrap length module1520resets a measured wrap length to zero. The wrap length module1520then updates the value of the measured wrap length based on the received wrap roller speed signal, the circumference of the roller, and the amount of time that has elapsed since the value of the measured wrap length was last updated. The wrap length module1520continues to update the measured wrap length until it receives a signal that indicates that a new wrap cycle has been initiated.

The wrap length module1520compares the measured wrap length to a threshold value and outputs the results of the comparison to the belt control module1560. In some implementations, the threshold value is a predetermined length. For example, the threshold value may be or correspond to 21 meters. As another example, the first threshold value may be or corresponds to 16-24 meters. In other implementations, the first threshold value may be set to an initial value—for example, 21 meters—and an operator of the harvester10, via the operator interface45, may change the threshold value to another suitable length.

The belt control module1560generates a signal to drive the wrap floor belts in response to receiving a signal that indicates initiation of a wrap cycle. The belt control module1560generates a signal to stop driving the wrap floor belts to be driven in response to determining the wrap length module1520indicates that determined length of wrap has been fed to the module forming chamber185.

FIG.16is a flowchart depicting yet another example method of controlling a wrap floor of the harvester10, such as the wrap floor system520. In an example implementation, control may be performed by the wrap floor control module1550. In other implementations, control may be performed by a baler interface controller (BIC) or another controller of the harvester10.

Control begins at1610ofFIG.16upon initiation of a wrap cycle. At1605, control engages the wrap floor and drives the wrap floor belt. For example, the floor engagement module1155commands the wrap floor actuator155to move the wrap floor into an engaged position and the belt control module1560engages the wrap floor clutch160. At1610, control also initializes a timer (Timer) and sets a measured length of wrap (Fed_Length) to zero. Control continues with1620.

At1620, control calculates the length of wrap fed to the module forming chamber185and updates the measured length of wrap (Fed_Length). For example, the wrap length module1520updates the measured length based on the signal received from the wrap roller speed sensor170. At1630, control determines whether the value of the timer (Timer) is greater than or equal to a threshold period of time. For example, the timer module1510indicates that the timer value is greater than or equal to the stored period. If so, control transfers to1640; otherwise, control returns to1620.

At1640, control disengages the wrap floor and stops driving the wrap floor belt. For example, the floor engagement module1155commands the wrap floor actuator155to move the wrap floor into a disengaged position and the belt control module1560disengages the wrap floor clutch160. Control continues with1650, where control calculates the length of wrap fed to the module forming chamber185and updates the measured length of wrap (Fed_Length). Control then progresses to1660.

At1660, control determines whether the measured length of wrap (Fed_Length) is greater than or equal to a threshold length. For example, the wrap length module1520indicates that the measured length of wrap is greater than or equal to the stored threshold value. If so, control progresses to1670; otherwise, control returns to1650.

At1670, control stops driving the wrap floor belt. For example, the belt control module1560disengages the wrap floor clutch160. Control then ends.

FIG.17is a functional block diagram of an example implementation of a wrap floor control system1700. In various implementations, the wrap floor control system1700includes a wrap floor control module1750, the wrap floor actuator155, the wrap floor clutch160, and the wrap roller speed sensor170. The wrap floor control module1750is yet another implementation of the wrap floor control module150and may include the timer module1510, a wrap length module1720, the floor engagement module1155, and a belt control module1560.

In various examples, the wrap floor control module1750may be a standalone module in the harvester10, as illustrated in the example ofFIG.2. In other examples, at least one of the timer module1510, the wrap length module1720, the floor engagement module1155, and the belt control module1560may be implemented independently or with one or more other modules of the harvester10—for example, a baler interface controller (BIC).

The wrap length module1720receives a signal from the wrap roller speed sensor170and the separation label sensor165. The circumference of the wrap roller is stored in the wrap length module1720. Based on the signal received from the wrap roller speed sensor170, the wrap length module1720calculates the length of wrap fed to the module forming chamber185since the separation label sensor165last detected the presence of a separation label.

In response to receiving a signal that indicates the presence of a separation label, the wrap length module1720resets a measured wrap length to zero. The wrap length module1720then updates the value of the measured wrap length based on the received wrap roller speed signal, the circumference of the roller, and the amount of time that has elapsed since the value of the measured wrap length was last updated. The wrap length module1720continues to update the measured wrap length until it receives another signal that indicates the presence of a separation label.

The wrap length module1720compares the measured wrap length to a threshold value and outputs the results of the comparison to the belt control module1560. In some implementations, the threshold value is a predetermined length. For example, the threshold value may be or correspond to 0.9 meters. As another example, the first threshold value may be or corresponds to 0.5-1.5 meters. In other implementations, the first threshold value may be set to an initial value—for example, 0.9 meters—and an operator of the harvester10, via the operator interface45, may change the threshold value to another suitable length.

FIG.18is a flowchart depicting yet another example method of controlling a wrap floor of the harvester10, such as the wrap floor system520. In an example implementation, control may be performed by the wrap floor control module1750. In other implementations, control may be performed by a baler interface controller (BIC) or another controller of the harvester10.

Control begins at1810ofFIG.18upon initiation of a wrap cycle. At1810, control engages the wrap floor and drives the wrap floor belt. For example, the floor engagement module1155commands the wrap floor actuator155to move the wrap floor into an engaged position and the belt control module1560engages the wrap floor clutch160. At1810, control also initializes and starts a timer (Timer). Control continues with1820.

At1820, control determines whether the value of the timer (Timer) is greater than or equal to a threshold period of time. For example, the timer module1510indicates that the timer value is greater than or equal to the stored period. If so, control transfers to1830; otherwise, control returns to1820.

At1830, control disengages the wrap floor. For example, the floor engagement module1155commands the wrap floor actuator155to move the wrap floor into a disengaged position. Control continues with1840, where control monitors for the presence of a separation label on the wrap being fed to the module forming chamber185. For example, the wrap length module1720monitors the signal from the separation label sensor165. At1850, control determines whether a separation label is detected. If so, control continues with1860; otherwise, control returns to1840.

At1860, control resets a measured length of wrap (Label_Length). For example, the wrap length module1720sets the measured length to zero. At1870, control calculates the length of wrap fed to the module forming chamber185and updates the measured length of wrap (Label_Length). Control continues with1880.

At1880, control determines whether the measured length of wrap is greater than or equal to a threshold length. For example, the wrap length module1720indicates that the measured length of wrap is greater than or equal to the threshold value. If so, control progresses to1890; otherwise, control returns to1870.

At1890, control stops driving the wrap floor belt. For example, the belt control module1560disengages the wrap floor clutch160. Control then ends.

Spatial and functional relationships between elements (for example, between modules, circuit elements, semiconductor layers, etc.) are described using various terms, including “connected,” “engaged,” “coupled,” “adjacent,” “next to,” “on top of,” “above,” “below,” and “disposed.” Unless explicitly described as being “direct,” when a relationship between first and second elements is described in the above disclosure, that relationship can be a direct relationship where no other intervening elements are present between the first and second elements, but can also be an indirect relationship where one or more intervening elements are present (either spatially or functionally) between the first and second elements.

As used herein, the phrase at least one of A, B, and C should be construed to mean a logical (A OR B OR C), using a non-exclusive logical OR, and should not be construed to mean “at least one of A, at least one of B, and at least one of C.” The term subset does not necessarily require a proper subset. In other words, a first subset of a first set may be coextensive with (equal to) the first set.

Some or all hardware features of a module may be defined using a language for hardware description, such as IEEE Standard 1364-2005 (commonly called “Verilog”) and IEEE Standard 1076-2008 (commonly called “VHDL”). The hardware description language may be used to manufacture and/or program a hardware circuit. In some implementations, some or all features of a module may be defined by a language, such as IEEE 1666-2005 (commonly called “SystemC”), that encompasses both code, as described below, and hardware description.