Patent Publication Number: US-2012024670-A1

Title: Adjustable Rotational Discharge Assembly for a Conveyor

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to a discharge assembly. More specifically, the present invention relates to an adjustable rotational discharge assembly connected to a conveyor. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Conveyors for transporting and unloading products are known. In the agricultural industry, conveyors are used to transport agricultural products or materials. Conveyors provide quick and efficient transportation of agricultural products while minimizing damage to the products. Conveyors currently used to transport agricultural products frequently have a discharge chute positioned at the discharge end of the conveyor. The discharge chute is stationary in relation to the conveyor and directs the flow of the conveyed material, for example, toward the ground. 
     Conveyors having stationary discharge chutes are used to transport agricultural products from a harvesting vehicle, such as a combine harvester, into a storage or transportation vehicle, such as a dump truck or grain cart. A combine harvester has a limited storage capacity for receiving and storing harvested agricultural products. Accordingly, to maintain a high operational efficiency and to avoid frequent stopping to unload harvested agricultural products, combine harvesters will discharge the harvested agricultural products into a storage vehicle during the harvesting operation or combining process. In order to discharge the harvested agricultural products during operation, the conveyor of a combine harvester will extend a distance away from the combine harvester to allow a storage vehicle, such as a grain cart, to receive the conveyed agricultural products without interfering with the continuing harvesting operation or combining process. The storage vehicle will position itself in relation to the stationary discharge chute of the conveyor, such that the conveyer harvested agricultural products will discharge into a storage area of the storage vehicle. 
     Unfortunately, the foregoing arrangement of conveying harvested agricultural products has several drawbacks. Typically, the stationary discharge chute of a conveyor generates losses of the conveyed agricultural products during operation of the combine harvester. The losses can occur during the harvesting or combining operation of the combine harvester, for example, but not limited to, loss of product may occur prior to the positioning of the storage vehicle, after the storage vehicle has a filled storage area and pulls away from the combine harvester, loss of product may occur due to a speed differential between the operating combine harvester and the storage vehicle, due to separation of the combine harvester and storage vehicle such as when either the combine harvester or storage vehicle turns, swerves or moves and the other vehicle does not compensate, or during the positioning of the conveyor from a stored position to an operational, discharge position. Furthermore, parts of the storage vehicle, such as the tarp supports, can interfere with the combine harvester&#39;s discharge conveyor. The loss of harvested agricultural products results in a loss in revenue. 
     Some devices have attempted to address losses of agricultural products from combine harvester discharge conveyors. For example, combine harvester discharge conveyors may include a door or dribble door pivotally connected to the discharge chute of the conveyor. The dribble door attempts to reduce losses of conveyed agricultural products by covering a portion of the conveyor discharge chute. However, agricultural products losses can still easily occur with a dribble door, as small amounts of conveyed agricultural product may overcome any resistance the dribble door places against the conveyor discharge chute. 
     Second, the stationary discharge chute of the conveyor reduces the productivity and operational efficiency of the combine harvester. Due to the stationary position of the discharge chute, the conveyed agricultural products can only be directed into a specific area of a storage vehicle storage area. In order to evenly fill the storage vehicle storage area, the combine harvester and/or the storage vehicle must vary their respective operational speed to move the conveyed agricultural products into a different area of the storage vehicle. A slowing of the combine harvester decreases the rate of the harvesting operation or combining process. 
     Third, the stationary discharge chute of the conveyor results in the uneven filling of the storage vehicle. Often, only the operator of the combine harvester is in a position to view the storage area of the storage vehicle. Accordingly, only the combine harvester operator can ascertain the fill rate of the storage vehicle storage area, and likewise make adjustments to avoid uneven filling. As discussed above, to account for uneven filling of the storage vehicle, the combine harvester operator has to change the operational speed of the combine harvester in relation to the storage vehicle. This can result in a decrease in productivity and operational efficiency caused by a decrease in speed. In addition uneven filling of the storage vehicle can cause the overfilling of an area of the storage vehicle storage area, resulting in spilling or loss of conveyed agricultural products. 
     Some devices have attempted to address uneven filling of the storage vehicle. For example, United States Patent Publication Number 2009/0321154 to Johnson discloses a discharge chute which may provide rotation of the chute. However, Johnson does not disclose a chute which addresses losses of discharged material. 
     Accordingly, what is provided is an adjustable rotational discharge assembly for a conveyor as follows. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     An adjustable rotational discharge assembly for a conveyor is provided comprising a linear motor, a pulley system assembly in operational communication with the linear motor, and a discharge chute in rotational communication with the pulley system. Linear motion from the linear motor is transformed by the pulley system into rotational motion, the rotational motion is communicated to the discharge chute to rotate the discharge chute between a storage position and an unload position. 
     In another embodiment of an adjustable rotational discharge assembly, the assembly includes an actuator and a cover assembly having an opening. A pulley system assembly is carried by the cover assembly. The pulley system assembly includes a trolley assembly received by the opening and in communication with the actuator. A discharge chute is in rotational communication with the pulley system assembly through cables, the resulting motion from the actuator is transferred to the pulley system, the pulley system transfers the motion to the cables, and the cables rotate the discharge chute between a storage position and an unload position. 
     In another embodiment, a combine harvester discharge conveyor includes an adjustable rotational discharge assembly; the assembly comprises a linear drive assembly having a cylinder barrel in communication with a rod, the linear motor having a first end and a second end. The linear motor is in communication with a means of controlling the linear motor. A cover assembly is connected to the first end of the linear motor, the cover assembly including a first section, a second section connected to the first section at a first angle, and a third section connected to the first section at a second angle. An oblong aperture is positioned through the first section of the cover assembly, a first cable member is positioned on the first section of the cover assembly, and a second cable member is positioned on the first section of the cover assembly. A pulley system is carried by the cover assembly, the pulley system includes a trolley assembly received within the oblong aperture and connected to the second end of the linear motor, a first pulley and fifth pulley connected to the trolley assembly, a second pulley connected to the first section of the cover assembly, a third pulley connected to the second section of the cover assembly, a fourth pulley connected to the third section of the cover assembly. A drive ring assembly is in rotational communication with the pulley system through a long cable and a short cable, the cables having a first end or shank ball end and a second end or threaded end, the shank ball end of the long cable connected to the first cable member, the long cable connecting the first cable member to a portion of the first pulley, the long cable connecting the first pulley to a portion of the second pulley, the long cable connecting the second pulley to a portion of the third pulley, the threaded end of the long cable connecting the third pulley to a portion of the drive ring assembly, another portion of drive ring assembly connecting to the threaded end of the short cable, the short cable connecting the portion of the drive ring assembly to a portion of the fourth pulley, the short cable connecting the fourth pulley to a portion of the fifth pulley, the short cable connecting the fifth pulley with the second cable member, the shank ball end of the short cable connected to the second cable member. A discharge chute is connected to the drive ring assembly; the discharge chute is adapted to rotate between a grain savings position and a grain discharge position. A means for operating the adjustable rotational discharge assembly is connected to the linear motor. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a discharge assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention; the discharge assembly attached to a conveyor of a combine harvester, the conveyor and associated discharge assembly positioned in a stored position. The discharge assembly is connected to a relay that is connected to a foot switch and a battery; the foot switch is used to control the position of the discharge chute. 
         FIG. 2  is a plan view of the discharge assembly of  FIG. 1 , showing a combine harvester, the conveyor of the combine harvester and attached discharge assembly in the stored position in broken lines and the conveyor and attached discharge assembly in the discharge position in solid lines. 
         FIG. 2A  is a cut away plan view of the discharge assembly of  FIG. 1 , taken from line  2 A of  FIG. 2 , showing the discharge chute in an unrotated storage position and a cut-away of the cylinder cover assembly illustrating the electric actuator and associated wiring. 
         FIG. 2B  is a cut-away plan view of another embodiment of the discharge assembly of  FIG. 1 , taken from line  2 A of  FIG. 2 , showing the discharge chute in an unrotated storage position and a cut-away of the cylinder cover assembly illustrating the cylinder and associated hydraulic lines. 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view of the discharge assembly of  FIG. 1 , illustrating the discharge chute in an unrotated storage position and without an associated conveyor. 
         FIG. 4  is an isometric view of the discharge assembly of  FIG. 1 , illustrating the discharge chute in a rotated unload position, a cut-away of the cylinder cover assembly illustrating the cylinder, the cylinder in partial broken lines, and excluding the discharge assembly cables. 
         FIG. 5  is an isometric view of the discharge assembly of  FIG. 1 , illustrating the discharge assembly shown in  FIG. 4  with the discharge chute removed. 
         FIG. 6  is an exploded view of the discharge assembly of  FIG. 1 , illustrating the discharge assembly shown in  FIG. 5  with the discharge chute and cables removed. 
         FIG. 6A  is an exploded view of the drive ring retainer assembly shown in  FIG. 6 . 
         FIG. 7  is a partial exploded view of the discharge assembly of  FIG. 1 , taken from line  7 - 7  of  FIG. 6 , illustrating the cylinder cover assembly. 
         FIG. 7A  is a partial exploded view of the trolley assembly of  FIG. 7 . 
         FIG. 7B  is an exploded view of the pulleys used in the discharge assembly. 
         FIG. 8  is a cut-away plan view of the discharge assembly of  FIG. 1 , taken from line  8 - 8  of  FIG. 5 , illustrating an arrangement of the cables. 
         FIG. 9  is an isometric view of the discharge assembly of  FIG. 1 , illustrating the discharge chute in a fully rotated position. 
         FIG. 10  is a view of the components of the foot switch assembly and electrical components used to operate the discharge chute.  FIG. 10  is for illustrative purposes and the components are not to scale. 
         FIG. 10A  is a wiring diagram for the installation of the foot switch assembly and electrical components of  FIG. 10 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The following provides one or more examples of embodiments of an adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100 . For ease of discussion and understanding, the following detailed description and illustrations refer to the discharge assembly  100  for use with a conveyor  20  connected to a combine harvester  19 . It should be appreciated that the conveyor  20  may be any type, style, or arrangement of conveyor, including, but not limited to, an auger or screw conveyor, a belt conveyor, a pneumatic conveyor, a roller conveyor, a chain conveyor or any other known or future developed conveyor for which it would be advantageous to use one or more examples of embodiments of the adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100 . In addition, while a combine harvester  19  is provided for purposes of illustration, it should be appreciated that the conveyor  20  and associated adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100  may be connected to any type of vehicle, machine, equipment or device which requires or desires a conveyor  20 . 
       FIG. 1  illustrates a perspective view of a combine harvester  19 . The combine harvester  19  includes a conveyor  20 , illustrated in a stored position. In the stored position, the conveyor  20  is approximately parallel to the operational or driving direction of combine harvester  19 . The conveyor  20  includes a first or intake end  22  and a second or discharge end  24 . The intake end  22  is in pivotal communication with the combine harvester  19 . Connected to the discharge end  24  is an adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100 . Connected to the adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100  is a means for operating the adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100 , in the preferred embodiment the means for operating the adjustable rotational discharge assembly is a foot switch  250  located in the cab  240 . The foot switch  250  is connected to a relay  254  located on the passenger side frame panel (not shown) behind the cab  240 . The foot switch  250  is connected to the relay  254  by a foot switch harness  251 . The relay  254  is connected to a battery  259  (shown in  FIG. 10A ) and to the adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100 . The adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100  is connected to the relay  254  by an actuator harness  256  that runs along the top of the conveyor  20  and then under a side body panel  242  to the relay  254 . While the preferred means to operate the adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100  is the foot switch  250 , it should be appreciated that the means to operate the adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100  is not limited to the foot switch  250 . Alternative embodiments may include the adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100  being operated by other means. For example,  FIG. 2B  illustrates a hydraulic actuator  270  connected to hydraulic lines  139  as the means for operating the adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100 . 
       FIG. 2  illustrates an overhead view of the combine harvester  19 . The combine harvester  19  includes the conveyor  20 , illustrated in the stored position in broken lines and the discharge position in solid lines. The conveyor  20  can pivot about the intake end  22  between the stored position and the discharge position. In the discharge position, the conveyor  20  is approximately perpendicular to the operational or driving direction of combine harvester  19 . 
     The conveyor  20  includes the adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100  connected thereto and illustrated in the storage position. The adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100  may include a cylinder cover assembly  140 . 
       FIG. 2A  illustrates a cut away plan view of the adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100 , taken from broken line  2 A of  FIG. 2 . A portion of the cylinder cover assembly  140  is cut-away to illustrate a linear drive assembly or linear motor or electric actuator  130 . The electric actuator  130  may include a barrel  131  in linear communication with a rod  132 . As illustrated in  FIG. 2 , the actuator harness  256  may extend from the electric actuator  130  along the conveyor  20  to the combine harvester  19 . At the combine harvester  19 , the actuator harness  256  may be run under the side body panel  242  behind the body panel hinges (not shown) of the combine harvester  19 . The electric actuator  130  may be connected to electricity provided by the combine harvester  19  or by one or more batteries  259 , include or exclude a piston, or any other known or future developed linear drive assembly or linear motion device to support operation of the adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100  as described herein. 
       FIG. 2B  illustrates a cut away plan view of another embodiment of the adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100 , taken from broken line  2 A of  FIG. 2 , wherein the linear drive assembly is a hydraulic actuator  270 . A portion of the cylinder cover assembly  140  is cut-away to illustrate a linear drive assembly or linear motor or piston cylinder or hydraulic actuator  270 . The hydraulic actuator  270  may include a cylinder barrel  272  in linear communication with a piston rod  274 . The cylinder barrel  272  may receive piston rod  274  and include a piston (not shown) or cylinder head (not shown). The hydraulic actuator  270  may be connected to a set of hydraulic lines  139  to respectively deliver and/or withdraw hydraulic fluid to the hydraulic actuator  270 . The hydraulic lines  139  may extend from the hydraulic actuator  270  along the conveyor  20  to the combine harvester  19 . At the combine harvester  19 , the hydraulic lines  139  may be operably connected to a hydraulic system (not shown) of the combine harvester  19  which operates equipment or appendages connected to the combine harvester  19 . In one or more examples of embodiments, the hydraulic lines  139  may be operably connected to a dedicated hydraulic system (not shown) independent of the combine harvester  19  yet carried by the combine harvester  19 . In one or more examples of embodiments, hydraulic actuator  270  may include a single hydraulic line or three or more hydraulic lines. The illustration of the hydraulic actuator  270  is provided as an alternative embodiment and is in no way to be considered limiting, one who is ordinarily skilled in the art would understand that the adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100  may comprise any type of actuator that will support the operation of the adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100 . 
       FIGS. 3-9  illustrate the adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100  in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. Referring generally to  FIGS. 3-6 ,  8  and  9 , the adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100  may include a conveyor sleeve assembly  110 . As illustrated in  FIGS. 3 and 6 , the conveyor sleeve assembly  110  may include a sleeve  112 . In one or more examples of embodiments, the conveyor sleeve assembly  110  may be constructed as two sleeves, or may have three or more sleeves. The conveyor sleeve assembly  110  may be formed of steel, aluminum, plastic, or any other known or future developed metal, synthetic, or semi-synthetic material with sufficient strength and rigidity to support operation of the adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100  as described herein. 
     Referring to  FIG. 6 , the sleeve  112  may include an outer portion  113  and an inner portion  114 . The inner portion  114  of sleeve  112  is illustrated as cylindrical in shape. Accordingly, the inner portion  114  is adapted to receive a portion of a correspondingly shaped conveyor. For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 1 , the sleeve  112  receives a portion of conveyor  20 , which is illustrated as cylindrical in shape. The inner portion  114  is adapted to surround a portion of the exterior of the conveyor  20 . In one or more examples of embodiments, the sleeve  112  may be formed of different geometries, shapes, sizes, lengths, diameters and/or arrangements. This advantageously allows the adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100  and associated sleeve assembly  110  to connect or attach to different styles, types, geometries, sizes, or brands of a conveyor  20 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 6 , sleeve  112  may be connected by sleeve bracket members  121 . The sleeve bracket members  121  may include one or more apertures (not shown). The bracket member apertures (not shown) may align and receive a bolt  123  and nut  124  to connect the sleeve  112 . The removable connections described herein advantageously allows the adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100  and associated sleeve assembly  110  to be installed after the initial purchase or acquisition of a conveyor  20  or device having a conveyor  20 . Accordingly, the adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100  may be sold as an aftermarket upgrade. In one or more examples of embodiments, the sleeve  112  may be attached by weld, adhesive, or any other known or future developed method of attachment having sufficient strength to connect sleeve  112  and support operation of the adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100  as described herein. Further, in one or more examples of embodiments, the sleeve  112  may be integrally formed with conveyor  20 . 
     The sleeve  112  may include the raised lip or a sleeve ring  125 . As shown in  FIG. 6 , the sleeve ring  125  is positioned around the circumference of the outer portion  113  of the sleeve  112 . Accordingly, the diameter of the sleeve ring  125  is greater than the outer diameter of the sleeve  112 . The sleeve ring  125  may include a front or first portion  126  and a rear of second portion  127 . The front and rear portions  126 ,  127  may be arranged generally parallel to one another. The sleeve ring  125  may be welded to the sleeve  112 . In one or more examples of embodiments, the sleeve ring  125  may be positioned at one or more locations along the sleeve  112 . Further, in one or more examples of embodiments, the sleeve ring  125  may be attached to the first sleeve  112  by bolt, adhesive, or any other known or future developed method of attachment having sufficient strength to connect the sleeve ring  125  to sleeve  112  and support operation of the adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100  as described herein. 
     Referring generally to  FIGS. 3-6 ,  8  and  9 , the adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100  may include a drive ring assembly  170 . The drive ring assembly  170  is in rotational communication with the sleeve ring  125 . As illustrated in  FIG. 6 , the drive ring assembly  170  may include a chute drive ring  171  and a drive ring spacer  177 . The chute drive ring  171  may have a front side or first portion  172  and a rear side or second portion  173 . The rear side  173  may align with the drive ring spacer  177 . The chute drive ring  171  and the drive ring spacer  177  may include a drive ring aperture or opening or hole  174 . The drive ring aperture  174  may have a corresponding radius and/or circumference as the sleeve ring  125 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 6 and 8 , the chute drive ring  171  and the drive ring spacer  177  are adapted to rotationally engage the sleeve ring  125  through one or more ring retainer brackets  178 . In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 6 , the chute drive ring  171  engages the sleeve ring  125  through four separate ring retainer brackets  178 . In one or more examples of embodiments, the chute drive ring  171  may engage the sleeve ring  125  through one, two, three, or five or more ring retainer brackets  178 . Further, in one or more examples of embodiments, the chute drive ring  171  may engage the sleeve ring  125  without a ring retainer bracket  178 , but with any known or future developed suitable connection device in accordance with operation of the adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100  as described herein. 
     Each ring retainer bracket  178  includes a drive ring retainer  180  and a drive ring retainer spacer  179  illustrated in  FIG. 6A . The ring retainer bracket  178  may also include a bushing or sleeve  181 . As shown in  FIG. 6  and  FIG. 6A  of the illustrated embodiment, each ring retainer bracket  178  includes two bushings  181 . Each bushing  181  is adapted to receive a ring connection member or bolt  182 . The ring connection member  182  may include external threads, which may engage corresponding internal threads (not shown) within bushing  181 . In one or more examples of embodiments, the each ring retainer bracket  178  may include one or three or more bushings  181 . Further, in one or more examples of embodiments, bushing  181  may include an aperture having a smooth bore for receiving a ring connection member  182 . The smooth bore enables a portion of the ring connection member  182  to pass through bushing  181  and through an aperture (not shown) in bracket  178 , such that the ring connection member  182  engages or connects to an internally threaded member, for example, but not limited to, a nut, on the rear portion  180  side of bracket  178 . 
     The chute drive ring  171  is adapted to rotationally engage the sleeve ring  125  by arranging each ring retainer bracket  178  such that the drive ring retainer spacer  179  is in communication with the second portion  127  of the sleeve ring  125 . Further, the rear side  173  of chute drive ring  171  is in communication with the drive ring spacer  177  which is in communication with the sleeve ring  125 . Each ring retainer bracket  178  subsequently connects to the chute drive ring  171 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 6 , each ring connection member  182  passes through a corresponding connection aperture or bolt hole  175  in the chute drive ring  171 . A portion of each ring connection member  182  enters the connection aperture  175  from the front side  172  of the chute drive ring  171 . The ring connection member  182  portion subsequently passes through the connection aperture  175  and engages a corresponding bushing  181  of a ring retainer bracket  178 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 5 ,  6  and  8 , the chute drive ring  171  may carry a drive bushing  190 . In one or more examples of embodiments, and as illustrated in  FIG. 6 , the chute drive ring  171  may carry a plurality of drive bushings  190 . Each drive bushing  190  includes an aperture or opening  191  which passes entirely through the bushing  190 . Accordingly, the bushings  190  are adapted to receive cables  101 ,  102  through opening  191  (see  FIG. 5 ). Further, aperture  191  may engage the cables  101 ,  102  such that as the cables  101 ,  102  move, the bushings  190  correspondingly move with the cables  101 ,  102 . For example, apertures  191  may have a diameter corresponding to the outer diameter of the cables  101 ,  102  such that the bushings  190  may receive the cables  101 ,  102 , yet forms a connection with the cables  101 ,  102 . Accordingly, as the cables  101 ,  102  move, bushings  190  correspondingly move. In one or more examples of embodiments, bushings  190  may engage the cables  101 ,  102  through frictional engagement, may include one or more retention members, such as a nut  189 , or may include any other known or future developed retention device to enable the bushings  190  to receive and subsequently move with the cables  101 ,  102 . Further, in one or more examples of embodiments, the bushings  190  may be mounted or connected to chute drive ring  171  by weld, adhesive, or any other known or future developed method of attachment. 
       100441  The chute drive ring  171  may carry a chute retention element  184  (see  FIGS. 5 and 6 ). The chute retention element  184  may be cylindrical in shape and includes an outer surface  185 . A plurality of chute ring apertures or retention apertures  186  may be connected to or arranged around the outer surface  185 . The chute retention element  184  may be connected to the chute drive ring  171  by welding. In one or more examples of embodiments, the chute retention element  184  may be any shape or geometric orientation adapted to engage or retain a discharge chute  195 . Further, in one or more examples of embodiments, the chute retention element  184  may be connected to the chute drive ring  171  by any known or future developed method of attachment suitable to support operation of the discharge assembly  100  as described herein. 
     As shown by reference to  FIGS. 3 and 4 , the discharge chute  195  is mounted or attached to chute retention element  184 . The discharge chute  195  provides for the directional distribution of material from the conveyor  20 . In the illustrated embodiment, the discharge chute  195  includes an elbow  196  positioned between a conveyor attachment end  197  and a discharge end  198 . The discharge chute  195  mounts to the discharge assembly  100  through the conveyor attachment end  197  receiving the chute retention element  184 . As shown in  FIGS. 5 and 6 , the retention apertures  186  are along the outer surface  185  of chute retention element  184  and are adapted to assist in retaining discharge chute  195 . In one or more examples of embodiments, one or more hose clamps (not shown) may be fastened about the conveyor attachment end  197  of the discharge chute  195 . For example, the hose clamp (not shown) may include a screw and band or worm gear assembly to provide additional adjustable attachment or retention of the discharge chute  195  to the chute retention element  184 . Further, in one or more examples of embodiments, the hose clamp may be a spring clamp, wire clamp, or any suitable compression fitting assembly suitable to provide additional connection of discharge chute  195  to the chute retention element  184 . In one or more examples of embodiments, the discharge chute  195  may connect to the chute retention element  184  by screws, bolts, adhesive, welding or any other known or further developed attachment device or method. 
     The adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100  may include cylinder cover assembly  140 . Referring generally to  FIGS. 3-6 ,  8  and  9 , conveyor sleeve assembly  110  may carry the cylinder cover assembly  140 . As shown in  FIGS. 5 and 8 , cover mounts  137 ,  138  may be connected to the conveyor sleeve assembly  110 , for example, but not limited to, by weld. In one or more examples of embodiments, the cover mounts  137 ,  138  may be connected to the conveyor sleeve assembly  110  by bolt, adhesive, or any other known or future developed method of attachment suitable to support operation of the discharge assembly  100  as described herein. The cover mounts  137 ,  138  may include a plurality of apertures (not shown). The apertures (not shown) may correspond to apertures or holes or passages  141  positioned in the cylinder cover assembly  140  (see  FIGS. 6 and 8 ). As shown in  FIG. 5 , connection members or bolts  142  may removably connect apertures  141  to the apertures (not shown) of the cover mounts  137 ,  138 , connecting the cylinder cover assembly  140  to the conveyor sleeve assembly  110 . In one or more examples of embodiments, the cylinder cover assembly  140  may be directly connected to the conveyor sleeve assembly  110 , for example by weld, adhesive, or any other known or future developed method of attachment. 
     As shown in  FIG. 7 , the cylinder cover assembly  140  may include a first or top section  144 . A second section  145  may be integrally connected to the first section  144  and positioned at a first angle  146  from the first section  144 . Preferably the first angle  146  is greater than ninety (90) degrees. A third section  147  may be integrally connected to the first section  144  and positioned at a second angle  148  from the first section  144 . Preferably the second angle  148  is greater than ninety (90) degrees. Accordingly, when viewing a cross-section of the cylinder cover assembly  140 , the cross-section taken perpendicularly through the cylinder cover assembly  140  and the first, second and third sections  144 ,  145 ,  147 , the second section  145  and third section  147  may be arranged as a mirror image of one another. A fourth section  149  may be integrally connected to the second section  145 . The fourth section  149  may carry apertures  141  for connecting the cylinder cover assembly  140  to the conveyor sleeve assembly  110 . The sections  144 ,  145 ,  147 ,  149  of the cylinder cover assembly  140  are arranged to form an outer surface  151  and an inner surface  152 . While the sections and respective angles are specifically described with respect to the illustrated embodiment, one of skill in the art would understand that fewer or additional sections may be added or removed, the sections may be arranged at different angles, or the sections may be unitary, separately connected, or a combination thereof without departing from the overall scope of the present invention. 
     The cylinder cover assembly  140  may include an opening or passage or aperture or slot  155 . As shown in  FIG. 7 , the opening  155  may be positioned in the first section  144  of cylinder cover assembly  140 . The opening  155  may include first and second opening portions  156 ,  157 , which are arranged substantially parallel to one another and separated by third and fourth opening portions or ends  158 ,  159 . The opening  155  may be oblong or elongated in one direction. For example in the illustrated embodiment the first and second opening portions  156 ,  157  have a greater length or extend a greater distance than the third and fourth opening portions or ends  158 ,  159 . In one or more examples of embodiments, opening  155  may be rectangular, oval, elliptical, or any other geometric orientation to allow for operation of the adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100  as described herein. Further, in one or more examples of embodiments, first and second opening portions  156 ,  157  of opening  155  may be any length suitable for operation of the adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100  as described herein. 
     The cylinder cover assembly  140  may include one or more cable tabs or members  162  for the engagement and retention of the cables  101 ,  102 . As shown in the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 5 ,  7  and  8 , the cylinder cover assembly  140  may include a first cable tab  162  and a second cable tab  163 . Cable tabs  162 ,  163  may be connected or attached to the cylinder cover assembly  140 , for example, but not limited to, by weld. Each cable tab  162 ,  163  may include an aperture or opening  164 ,  165  (see  FIG. 7 ). The cable tabs  162 ,  163  may be arranged approximately perpendicular to the cylinder cover assembly  140 , for example perpendicular to the first section  144 . In one or more examples of embodiments, the cylinder cover assembly  140  may include one cable tab or three of more cable tabs. Further, in one or more examples of embodiments, the cable tabs  162 ,  163  may be formed as a unitary member with the cylinder cover assembly  140  or arranged at an angle other than perpendicular to the cylinder cover assembly  140 . 
     The cylinder cover assembly  140  may carry electric actuator  130 . As illustrated in  FIGS. 4 and 7 , a cylinder mount post or member or support  153  may be connected to the inner surface  152  of the cylinder cover assembly  140 . The cylinder mount post  153  may include apertures or passages or holes  154  for the selective engagement with electric actuator  130 . Referring to  FIG. 7 , the electric actuator  130  may include a first end  133  and a second end  134 . The first end  133  may be adapted to engage or mount or connect to cylinder mount post  153 . In the illustrated embodiment, the first end  133  of the electric actuator  130  may include an engagement portion  135 . The engagement portion  135  may include an aperture  106  which engage or connect to the cylinder mount post  153 . Aperture  106  may be aligned with aperture  154  of cylinder mount post  153 . Apertures  106 ,  154  may receive a connection member or threaded bolt  107  which engages a corresponding threaded nut  108 , connecting the electric actuator  130  to the cylinder mount post  153 . In one or more examples of embodiments, the cylinder mount post  153  may be connected to the cylinder cover assembly  140  by a weld, adhesive, bolt, may be integrally formed with the cover assembly  140 , or any other known or future developed method of attachment or connection. Further, in one or more examples of embodiments, the cylinder mount post  153  may be formed separately from the cylinder cover assembly  140 . In one or more examples of embodiments, engagement portion  135  may be formed of a single member, or multiple members, or may be connected or attached to cylinder mount post  153  by weld, adhesive, or any other known or future developed method of attachment. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 7 and 8 , the cylinder cover assembly  140  may carry pulley system assembly  200 . The pulley system assembly  200  may be a compound pulley arrangement, in that the assembly  200  may include one or more fixed pulleys and one or more movable pulleys. The pulley system assembly  200  may include one or more pulleys in moveable communication with a trolley assembly  205  and one or more static or fixed pulleys. Referring to the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 7 , the pulley system assembly  200  includes five total pulleys. A first pulley  220  and a fifth pulley  224  are respectively connected to or received by trolley assembly  205 . A second pulley  221  is attached or connected to the first section  144  of the cylinder cover assembly  140 . A third pulley  222  is attached or connected to the second section  145  and a fourth pulley  223  is attached or connected to the third section  147  of the cylinder cover assembly  140 . The second, third and fourth pulleys  221 ,  222 ,  223  are each fixed or static pulleys, in which each pulley is connected in a fixed or static position, and only provides for rotational movement around a fixed axle or shaft. Further, the second, third and fourth pulleys  221 ,  222 ,  223  are arranged in the same plane or parallel to the respective first, second, or third section  144 ,  145 ,  147  to which each pulley is attached. Each pulley  220 ,  221 ,  222 ,  223 ,  224  may have a similar construction and include a cable retainer  225 , a sheave bushing  226 , and a cable sheave  227 , illustrated in  FIG. 7B . The cable sheave  227  may include a groove or slot or channel about the circumference of the cable sheave  227  for receipt of a cable or cord or belt, such as cables  101 ,  102  (shown in  FIG. 8 ), The cable sheave  227  may include an opening or aperture or passage  228  passing entirely through cable sheave  227 . Opening  228  may receive a member or axle or shaft  229  which the cable sheave  227  may rotate about. Member  229  may be a threaded member, a partially threaded member, or an unthreaded member, for example, but not limited to, a pin, a bolt, or a shaft. The illustrated embodiment of member  229  includes external threads which mate with an internally threaded member or nut  230 . While the number, arrangement and types of pulleys are specifically described with respect to the illustrated embodiment, one of ordinary skill in the art would understand that fewer or additional pulleys may be added or removed, the pulleys may be arranged at different angles or positions, or the individual pulleys may be of a different type of pulley without departing from the overall scope of the present invention. 
     Trolley assembly  205  carries and provides traveling movement or lateral movement of one or more pulleys. As shown in the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 7 , trolley assembly  205  may be positioned to movably engage opening  155 . To this end, trolley assembly  205  may include a trolley top or cradle  206 . The trolley cradle  206  carries the first and fifth pulleys  220 ,  224 . Generally, the trolley cradle  206  may be positioned on the outer surface  151  side of the cylinder cover assembly  140 . In communication with the trolley cradle  206  may be a trolley top spacer  213 . In communication with the trolley top spacer  213  may be an actuator trolley spacer  208 . The actuator trolley spacer  208  may be adapted to fit within opening  155  of the cylinder cover assembly  140 . Accordingly, the actuator trolley spacer  208  may laterally guide the top trolley spacer  213  and the trolley cradle  206  along opening  155 . A trolley bottom  210  may be in communication with a trolley bottom spacer  214 . The trolley bottom spacer  214  may be in communication with the actuator trolley spacer  208 . Generally, the trolley bottom  210  may be positioned on the inner surface  152  side of the cylinder cover assembly  140 . The trolley cradle  206 , trolley top spacer  213 , actuator trolley spacer  208 , trolley bottom spacer  214 , and trolley bottom  210  may each have one or more apertures or openings  207 ,  209 ,  211  for receipt of a corresponding pulley sheave member  229  and subsequent connection of one or more pulleys.  FIG. 7A  illustrates an exploded view of the trolley assembly  205 . One who is ordinarily skilled in the art would understand that the trolley assembly  205  may include any number of spacers and may be of any size and shape that will support the adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 7 , the electric actuator  130  may be in operable communication with the pulley system assembly  200 . Trolley bottom  210  may include an attachment portion  212 , illustrated as one or more apertures passing through a portion of the trolley bottom. The second end  134  of the electric actuator  130  may include a corresponding trolley engagement portion  109  including an aperture. Attachment portion  212  and trolley engagement portion  109  mate in order to align the corresponding apertures and receive a connection member  216 . Connection member  216  is illustrated as a threaded member, such as a bolt, which mates with a tightening member  215 , illustrated as a nut, and bushings  217 . In one or more examples of embodiments, the trolley bottom  210  may connect to the electric actuator  130  by weld, adhesive, or any other known or future developed method of attachment suitable for operation of the discharge assembly  100  as described herein. 
     The electric actuator  130  may be in operational communication or operably connected to the drive ring assembly  170  to control the rotational movement of the drive ring assembly  170 . More specifically, the electric actuator  130  may be in operational communication with the pulley system assembly  200 . The pulley system assembly  200  may also be in communication with the drive ring assembly  170  through cables or cords or belts  101 ,  102 . Accordingly, the pulley system assembly  200  described herein transmits linear motion transmitted from the electric actuator  130  into rotational motion transmitted through the cables  101 ,  102  to the drive ring assembly  170 . Specifically, cables  101 ,  102  interconnect the pulley system assembly  200  with the drive ring assembly  170 . As shown in  FIG. 8 , long cable  101  and short cable  102  include a first end or shank ball end  103  and a second end or threaded end  104  (shown in  FIG. 5 ). Referring to  FIGS. 5 and 8 , the first end  103  of the long cable  101  connects to or engages first cable tab  162 . The first cable tab  162  receives the first end  103  though aperture  164 . Traveling from the first end  103  toward the second end  104 , long cable  101  subsequently engages or wraps around a portion of the first pulley  220 . Subsequently, cable  101  is directed to engage a portion of the second pulley  221 , followed by a portion of the third pulley  222 . The third pulley  222  redirects long cable  101  to engage drive ring assembly  170 . Long cable  101  travels along a portion of chute drive ring  171  and the second end  104  engages or is received by one or more drive bushings  190 . The drive bushings  190  may be connected to the chute drive ring  171 . The short cable  102  continues to travel around a portion of the chute drive ring  171  and a portion of the chute retention element  184  and/or conveyor attachment end  197  of discharge chute  195 . Following engagement with drive ring assembly  170 , short cable  102  engages a portion of the fourth pulley  223 . The fourth pulley  223  redirects the short cable  102  to engage a portion of the fifth pulley  224 . From the fifth pulley  224 , the first end  103  of the short cable  102  connects to or engages second cable tab  163 . The second cable tab  163  receives the first end  103  though aperture  165 . Accordingly, the electric actuator  130  may be operable to control the rotation of the drive ring assembly  170  and the attached discharge chute  195  through actuation of the pulley system assembly  200  and the subsequent movement of the cables  101 ,  102 . In one or more examples of embodiments, the first ends  103  of the cables  101 ,  102  may be respectively retained by the first and second cable tabs  162 ,  163  by a retention device (not shown) such as a knot, a clip, a button, or other known or future developed device for retaining cables  101 ,  102  in apertures  164 ,  165  of the first and second cable tabs  162 ,  163 . Further, in one or more examples of embodiments, cables  101 ,  102  may be arranged with the pulley system assembly  200  such that the cables  101 ,  102  are a continuous loop or continuous cable. 
     In operation and use of one or more examples of the discharge assembly  100 , rotation of the discharge chute  195  may be accomplished by actuation of electric actuator  130 . Referring to  FIGS. 2 ,  2 A and  3 , discharge assembly  100  is positioned in a storage or grain savings position. As shown in  FIG. 3 , in the storage or grain savings position, the discharge end  198  of discharge chute  195  is positioned upward or away from the ground. Accordingly, any material in the attached conveyor  20  will collect or remain in the discharge chute  195 , rather than immediately fall out and become waste. This advantageously allows a user to reduce the potential loss of conveyed material, specifically saving grain, as the discharge end  198  of discharge chute  195  is not directed toward the ground. Further, as shown in  FIG. 2A , in the storage or grain savings position, the electric actuator  130  is in a retracted position, wherein the rod  132  is not fully extended. Correspondingly, the trolley assembly  205 , which is in communication with the electric actuator  130 , is positioned to one end of opening  155 . As illustrated in  FIG. 2  and referencing  FIG. 7 , in the storage position the trolley assembly  205  is positioned adjacent to or near the third opening portion or end  158 . This arrangement advantageously minimizes loss of conveyed material. While the structural arrangement of the discharge assembly  100  in the storage position is specifically described with respect to the illustrated embodiment, one of skill in the art would understand that the operational arrangement of the structural features for the storage position may be altered or adjusted without departing from the overall scope of the present invention. For example, the storage or grain savings position of the discharge end  198  of discharge chute  195  may be any position in relation to the ground in which conveyed material, including grain, would remain in the discharge chute  195  and not immediately fall out of the discharge chute  195  and onto the ground. This would include, but is not limited to, positioning the discharge end  198  of discharge chute  195  parallel to the ground, or at an upward position away from the ground, such as an acute or orthogonal angle in relation to the horizon or ground. As another example, the electric actuator  130  may instead be extended or partially extended and/or the trolley assembly  205  may be positioned at the opposite end of opening  155 , such as near the fourth opening portion or end  159 . 
     To change the position of the discharge assembly  100  from the storage or grain savings position to the unload or grain discharge position, wherein the discharge end  198  of discharge chute  195  is positioned downward or toward the ground, electric actuator  130  may be actuated to provide motion in a first direction. The electric actuator  130  subsequently transmits the motion to the pulley system assembly  200 , resulting in rotation of the discharge chute  195  in a first direction.  FIG. 4  illustrates operation of electric actuator  130  in accordance with one or more examples of embodiments of the present invention.  FIG. 4  specifically excludes the cables  101 ,  102 , illustrates cylinder cover assembly  140  in a partial cut-away view, and shows electric actuator  130  in partial broken lines to provide an unobstructed view of operation of the electric actuator  130 . In the illustrated embodiment, a user may initially provide an actuation command or communication to the electric actuator  130 . Subsequently, electric actuator  130  will actuate, providing motion in a first direction, illustrated as linear motion. The first direction is illustrated as from cylinder mount post  153  toward discharge chute  195 . Linear motion is provided in the first direction as the rod  132  extends away from the cylinder barrel  131 . The electric actuator  130  transmits the linear motion to the pulley system assembly  200 , which in turn transforms the linear motion provided by the electric actuator  130  to rotational motion in a first direction. Specifically, trolley assembly  205 , which is in communication with the electric actuator  130 , moves laterally with the rod  132  along opening  155 . The trolley assembly  205  receives and subsequently transmits or communicates the linear motion to the connected or attached first and fifth pulleys  220 ,  224 . In turn, the first and fifth pulleys  220 ,  224  transfer the motion to the cables  101 ,  102 , moving the cables  101 ,  102  in a first direction. Cables  101 ,  102  subsequently rotate the drive ring assembly  170  in a first direction, resulting in the rotation of discharge chute  195  in a first direction.  FIG. 5  illustrates the discharge assembly  100  of  FIG. 4  with cables  101 ,  102 , however excludes discharge chute  195 . 
     Referring generally to  FIGS. 4 and 5 , the trolley assembly  205  and associated first and fifth pulleys  220 ,  224  are positioned along opening  155  at a position which corresponds with discharge chute  195 , and specifically discharge end  198 , facing downward and toward the ground. Preferably, the position of trolley assembly  205  along opening  155  is between the third opening portion or end  158  and the fourth opening portion or end  159  (see  FIG. 7 ). Accordingly, this provides for additional rotation of the discharge chute  195  in the first direction. As shown in  FIG. 9 , trolley assembly  205  may move in the first direction along opening  155  until reaching the fourth opening portion or end  159  (see  FIG. 7 ). As the trolley assembly  205  continues to move in the first direction, motion is transferred to cables  101 ,  102 , continuing to move cables  101 ,  102  in the first direction, resulting in further rotation of drive ring assembly  170  and discharge chute  195  in the first direction. Accordingly, the drive ring assembly  170  and attached discharge chute  195  may rotate less than or in excess of 360 degrees. In one or more examples of embodiments, the amount of rotation of discharge chute  195  may be adjustable, for example, but not limited to, adjusting the length of the first and second opening portions  156 ,  157  of opening  155  or the length of extension of the electric actuator  130 . Further, in one or more examples of embodiments, the amount of rotation of discharge chute  195  may be greater than 90 degrees and up to or exceeding 360 degrees. 
     A user may rotate the discharge chute  195  in a second, opposite direction through the retraction of the electric actuator  130 . As rod  132  retracts in a second, opposite direction, the motion is transmitted to trolley assembly  205 . Trolley assembly  205  accordingly moves in a second, opposite direction. In turn, the trolley assembly  205  transmits the motion to cables  101 ,  102 , resulting in the cables  101 ,  102  moving in a second, opposite direction. Accordingly, cables  101 ,  102  rotate the drive ring assembly  170  and discharge chute  195  in a second, opposite direction. Upon the complete retraction of the electric actuator  130  and/or the trolley assembly  205  coming into communication with an end of opening  155 , for example the third opening portion or end  158  (see  FIG. 7 ), the discharge chute  195  will have rotated in the second, opposite direction to return to the storage position. A user may control and adjust the position of discharge chute  195  by actuating the electric actuator  130  in the first and second directions. This provides a user the ability to control the direction of distribution of conveyed materials through discharge chute  195 . Further, in some applications it allows a user to avoid a reduction in the rate of productivity and operational efficiency caused to unload material. For example, in a combine harvester  19  application, a user may continue to operate the combine at a target production speed without slowing down to discharge combined or harvested material. Instead, the user can both control the direction of discharge flow to avoid uneven filling of a storage vehicle and reduce potential waste or loss of discharged material by rotating the discharge chute  195  into the storage position. 
       FIG. 10  illustrates the parts of the preferred means of controlling and adjusting the adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100 . The electric actuator  130  (shown in  FIG. 7 ) may be connected to the actuator harness  256 . The actuator harness  256  may be connected to the relay  254 . The relay  254  may be mounted on the passenger side frame panel (not shown) behind the cab  240 . The relay  254  may be connected to the foot switch harness  251  and the power harness  258 . The foot switch harness  251  may be run through the bulkhead panel (not shown) and a strain relief dome nut  252  and a strain relief lock nut  253  may be used to create a seal on the foot switch harness  251 . The foot switch harness  251  may be connected to the foot switch  250 . The foot switch  250  may be located inside the cab  240 . The foot switch  250  may be used to control and adjust the position of the discharge chute  195  by actuating the electric actuator  130  in the first and second directions. The power harness  258  may be connected to the combine&#39;s battery  259  (shown in  FIG. 10A ). A hole (not shown) may be drilled on the rear side of the battery box (not shown) and a grommet  260  may fit into the hole (not shown). The power harness  258  may be run through the grommet  260  and connected to the battery  259  to provide power to the means of controlling the adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100 . The actuator harness connection to the electric actuator  130  and the foot switch harness connection to the foot switch  250  may include a weather resistant seal  257 .  FIG. 10A  is a wiring diagram illustrating how the foot switch  250  may be operably connected to the relay  254 , electric actuator  130 , and battery  259 . While the preferred means to operate the adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100  is the foot switch  250 , it should be appreciated that other means to operate the adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100  are possible. Furthermore, one who is ordinarily skilled in the art would understand that the orientation of the means of operating adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100  may be arranged in any way that will support the operation of the adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100 . 
     The foregoing embodiments provide advantages over currently available devices. In particular the adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100  and associated features described herein allows for the reduction of losses in conveyed and discharged material, such as the savings of grain. Accordingly, the reduction of conveyed material losses, or grain savings, directly reduces revenue losses. In addition, the adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100  provides for the directional control of conveyed and discharged material. This advantageously allows a user to avoid uneven filling of a storage vehicle, device or assembly. The discharge assembly also helps the combine harvester&#39;s discharge conveyor  20  avoid parts of the storage vehicle reducing the chance the storage vehicle will interfere with the discharge conveyor  20 . Further, in applications where discharge of material occurs during operation of additional equipment, for example, such as a combine harvester  19  discharging harvested or combined materials while continuing to operate or harvest, the adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100  reduces lost productivity or lost operational efficiency. For example, the combine harvester  19  does not need to reduce operational speed or stop to discharge harvested or combined materials. Instead, the combine operator can not only control the direction of conveyed and discharged materials, but can also position the adjustable rotational discharge assembly  100  into a storage position to reduce material losses while continuing to harvest or combine. In addition, the discharge assembly can be arranged and removably connected to different styles, types, geometries, sizes, or brands of a conveyor. Accordingly, the discharge assembly can be advantageously adapted and/or installed as an aftermarket upgrade to purchasers or owners of conveyors or conveying systems. 
     Although various representative embodiments of this invention have been described above with a certain degree of particularity, those skilled in the art could make numerous alterations to the disclosed embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the inventive subject matter set forth in the specification and claims. All directional references, including but not limited to, upper, lower, upward, downward, left, right, leftward, rightward, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, and horizontal are only used for identification purposes to aid the reader&#39;s understanding of the embodiments of the present invention, and do not create limitations, particularly as to the position, orientation, or use of the invention unless specifically set forth in the claims. Joinder references (e.g., attached, coupled, connected) are to be construed broadly and may include intermediate members between a connection of elements and relative movement between elements. As such, joinder references do not necessarily infer that two elements are directly connected and in fixed relation to each other. 
     In some instances, components are described with reference to “ends” having a particular characteristic and/or being connected with another part. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that the present invention is not limited to components which terminate immediately beyond their points of connection with other parts. Thus, the term “end” should be interpreted broadly, in a manner that includes areas adjacent, rearward, forward of, or otherwise near the terminus of a particular element, link, component, part, member. In methodologies directly or indirectly set forth herein, various steps and operations are described in one possible order of operation, but those skilled in the art will recognize that steps and operations may be rearranged, replaced, or eliminated without necessarily departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. It is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative only and not limiting. Changes in detail or structure may be made without departing from the spirit of the invention as defined in the appended claims. 
     Although the present invention has been described with reference to certain embodiments, persons ordinarily skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.