Patent Description:
Crop materials, for example, hay, straw, silage and the like are now commonly formed into cylindrical bales commonly referred to as round bales. Such round bales in general are of diameter in the range of <NUM> metres to <NUM> metres and of axial length in the range of <NUM> metres to <NUM> metres.

Such bales when of silage fodder material are normally wrapped in plastics film material, which typically, is opaque, and commonly is of the colour black, green or white. Such round bales because of their size and weight, are difficult to handle, and in general, require mechanical means for such handling. Additionally, because of the size of such bales, conventional transporters for such bales are suitable for transporting only a limited number of such bales at one time.

<CIT> discloses a bale transporter which comprises a chassis and a pair of pick-up elements pivotally coupled to the chassis on opposite sides thereof about respective longitudinally extending parallel spaced apart pivot axes. The pick-up elements are pivotal from a first state for picking up bales from the ground to a second state with the bale located within the pick-up elements supported on the chassis. One of the problems with this bale transporter is that the number of bales which can be transported by the bale transporter is limited.

German Gebrauchsmusterschrift No. <CIT>discloses a bale transporter for transporting round bales of crop material, which is substantially similar to the bale transporter disclosed in <CIT>. The bale transporter of Blasius comprises a chassis supported on ground engaging wheels and a pair of bale collecting baskets, which are pivotally coupled to the chassis on respective opposite sides thereof about respective spaced apart longitudinally extending pivot axes. The collecting baskets are pivotal from a lower bale collecting position for collecting bales on the ground, to a raised transport position located above the chassis with the bales located within the collecting baskets.

There is therefore a need for an improved bale transporter with increased bale carrying capacity.

The present invention is directed towards providing such a bale transporter, and the invention is also directed towards providing a method for transporting bales.

According to the invention there is provided a bale transporter according to Claim <NUM> and a method for transporting bales according to Claim <NUM>.

Accordingly the invention provides a bale transporter comprising a chassis extending between a forward end and a rearward end and defining an elongated first bale carrier, the chassis being supported on at least a pair of rotatably mounted ground engaging wheels spaced apart transversely relative to the direction of normal forward motion of the transporter, an elongated second bale carrier mounted on the chassis and moveable between a first state adjacent the first bale carrier and a second state spaced apart upwardly above the first bale carrier, and a transfer means configured to pick up bales from the ground with the bales in the transfer means in an aligned state, and to transfer the bales in the aligned state onto a selected one of the first and second bale carriers.

Preferably, the second bale carrier is configured in the second state to be spaced apart above the first bale carrier a distance for accommodating bales on the first bale carrier beneath the second bale carrier.

In one example of the invention each one of the first and second bale carriers is configured for carrying at least one elongated row of the bales in the aligned state with the row of the aligned bales extending substantially parallel to the direction of normal forward motion of the transporter.

Preferably, the transfer means is configured to transfer the bales in the aligned state onto the selected one of the first and second bale carriers with the bales parallel to the direction of normal forward motion of the transporter.

Advantageously, the transfer means is configured to transfer bales onto the selected one of the first and second bale carriers with the bales in the aligned state in end-to-end abutting engagement and with a central geometrical axis of each of the bales substantially aligned with each other.

In one example of the invention a support means is provided for supporting the second bale carrier in the second state.

In another example of the invention a first urging means is provided for urging the second bale carrier between the first state and the second state. Preferably, the first urging means comprises at least one first ram. Advantageously, the first urging means comprises a pair of first rams.

Preferably, one of the pair of first rams is located adjacent a forward end of the chassis and the other one of the pair of first rams is located adjacent the rearward end of the chassis.

Advantageously, each first ram comprises an hydraulic ram.

In one example of the invention the first urging means is configured as the support means.

In another example of the invention the second bale carrier extends substantially the length of the chassis.

In a further example of the invention a pair of guide means are located at respective opposite ends of the chassis for guiding the second bale carrier between the first state and the second state.

Preferably, the first bale carrier extends substantially the length of the chassis.

In one embodiment of the invention the transfer means is pivotally coupled to the chassis about a first pivot axis extending substantially parallel to the direction of normal forward motion of the transporter. Preferably, the transfer means is urgeable between a first state for engaging and picking up bales on the ground and a second state for transferring the bales onto a selected one of the first and second bale carriers.

In one embodiment of the invention a second urging means is provided for urging the transfer means between the first and second states. Preferably, the second urging means comprises at least one second ram.

Advantageously, the second urging means comprises at least one second hydraulic ram.

In one example of the invention a first retaining means is provided for retaining the transfer means in the second state. Preferably, the first retaining means comprises a retaining member pivotally mounted on the chassis, and pivotal between a retaining state for retaining the transfer means in the second state, and a release state for releasing the transfer means from the second state. Advantageously, a third urging means is provided for urging the first retaining means between the retaining and release states.

Preferably, the transfer means is pivotal between the first and second states.

In one example of the invention the transfer means is configured to engage and pick up the bales on the ground as the transporter is being moved in a direction substantially parallel to the direction of normal forward motion of the transporter.

Preferably, the transfer means is configured to discharge bales located in the transfer means from the transfer means onto the selected one of the first and second bale carriers.

Advantageously, the transfer means is configured to retain the bales in the aligned state as they are being picked up from the ground.

Ideally, the transfer means is configured to retain the bales on the first bale carrier during transportation thereof.

Preferably, the transfer means is configured to retain the bales on the second bale carrier during transportation thereof.

Ideally, the transfer means is configured to retain the bales on the first and second bale carriers during transportation thereof.

In one example of the invention the transfer means comprises an elongated first bale engaging member and an elongated second bale engaging member spaced apart from the first bale engaging member.

Preferably, the first and second bale engaging members extend longitudinally and substantially parallel to the direction of normal forward motion of the transporter. Advantageously, the first and second bale engaging members define a bale accommodating opening therebetween for accommodating a portion of a bale resting on the ground therebetween as the bale is being captured by the transfer means. Ideally, the first and second bale engaging members extend substantially the length of the chassis.

In one example of the invention the first bale engaging member is located closer to the chassis than the second bale engaging member.

Preferably, the first and second bale engaging members are configured for retaining the bales on the first bale carrier during transporting thereof.

Advantageously, the first and second bale engaging members are carried on at least one end element located adjacent one end of the bale engaging members.

In another example of the invention the first and second bale engaging members extend between a pair of spaced apart end elements, one of the end elements being located adjacent a forward end of the first and second bale engaging members, and the other one of the end elements being located adjacent a rearward end of the first and second bale engaging members.

Preferably, at least one of the end elements is configured to accommodate a bale resting on the ground therethrough. Advantageously, both of the end elements are configured to accommodate a bale resting on the ground therethrough.

In another example of the invention each end element comprises an arcuate member. Preferably, the arcuate member of each end element terminates in its opposite ends in the respective first and second bale engaging members.

In another example of the invention at least one first strut extends between the end elements. Preferably, the at least one first strut is located towards but spaced apart from the first bale engaging member. Advantageously, the at least one first strut extends substantially parallel to the first bale engaging member.

In another example of the invention the first and second bale engaging members and the at least one first strut define a portion of the periphery of the bale.

Preferably, the at least one first strut cooperates with the first and second bale engaging members to retain the bales on the first bale carrier during transportation of the bales when the transfer means is in the second state.

Advantageously, at least one second strut is provided extending between the end elements towards the second bale engaging member but spaced apart therefrom. Preferably, the at least one second strut extends substantially parallel to the second bale engaging member. Advantageously, the second strut is configured for retaining the bales on the second bale carrier during transportation thereof when the transfer means is in the second state.

Preferably, the end elements of the transfer means are spaced apart longitudinally to accommodate discharge of the bales in the transfer means onto the selected one of the first and second bale carriers.

In one example of the invention at least one guide roller is rotatably mounted on one of the end elements of the transfer means for guiding a bale into the transfer element through the end element. Preferably, a pair of the guide rollers are provided on opposite sides of at least one of the end element of the transfer means.

In another embodiment of the invention a discharge means is mounted on the chassis for discharging a bale on the first bale carrier therefrom. Preferably, the discharge means is configured for discharging a bale on the second bale carrier therefrom when the second bale carrier is in the first state.

In one example of the invention the discharge means is of length just less than the length of the second bale carrier.

In another embodiment of the invention the discharge means is co-operable with the transfer means for discharging a bale from each of the first and second bale carriers.

In a further example of the invention the discharge means comprises an elongated discharge member extending substantially parallel to the direction of normal forward motion of the transporter.

In another example of the invention the discharge means comprises an elongated discharge cradle, the discharge cradle being configured for supporting a bale on the first bale carrier.

Preferably, the discharge means is urgeable from a rest state to a discharge state for discharging a bale from the first and second bale carriers.

Advantageously, the discharge means is configured in the rest state for supporting a bale on the first bale carrier.

Preferably, the discharge means is pivotally mounted on the chassis about a second pivot axis extending substantially parallel to the direction of normal forward motion of the transporter, and is pivotal about the second pivot axis between the rest state and the discharge state.

In one example of the invention a fourth urging means is provided for urging the discharge means between the rest and the discharge states.

In another embodiment of the invention the first bale carrier is configured to carry two rows of the bales with the bales of each row in the aligned state and with the respective rows extending parallel to each other and being adjacent each other.

In another embodiment of the invention the second bale carrier is configured to carry two rows of the bales with the bales of each row in the aligned state and with the rows extending parallel to each other and being adjacent each other.

Preferably, each row of aligned bales comprises at least three bales.

In another example of the invention each row of aligned bales comprises up to ten bales.

In a further embodiment of the invention a pair of transfer means are located on respective opposite sides of the chassis.

In one example of the invention the transporter is configured for transporting cylindrical bales.

In another example of the invention the first and second bale carriers are configured for carrying the cylindrical bales with the central geometrical axes of the respective bales of each row substantially aligned with each other and extending substantially parallel to the direction of normal forward motion of the transporter.

In a further example of the invention a tow bar is coupled to the chassis and extends forwardly therefrom.

Preferably, the tow bar is urgeable from a first state extending in a generally forward direction substantially parallel to the direction of normal forward motion of the transporter for maintaining the transporter in alignment with a towing vehicle with the transporter aligned with the path of the towing vehicle, and a second state offset towards at least one side of the path of travel of the towing vehicle with the transfer means extending beyond the path of the towing vehicle.

Advantageously, a fifth urging means is provided for urging the tow bar between the first and second states. Preferably, the fifth urging means is configured for retaining the tow bar in a selected one of the first and second states. Advantageously, the fifth urging means is configured for retaining the tow bar in a selected intermediate state intermediate the first and second states thereof.

In one example of the invention the tow bar is urgeable into two second states on respective opposite sides of the first state.

Preferably, the tow bar is pivotally coupled to the chassis and is pivotal between the first and second states.

The invention also provides a method for transporting bales, the method comprising providing a bale transporter with an elongated first bale carrier, and an elongated second bale carrier, the second bale carrier being moveable between a first state adjacent the first bale carrier, and a second state spaced apart upwardly above the first bale carrier, the method further comprising picking up bales from the ground by a transfer means with the bales aligned in the transfer means, with the second bale carrier in the first state transferring the aligned bales by the transfer means onto the second bale carrier with the bales aligned in an elongated row, urging the second bale carrier into the second state, and picking up further bales from the ground by the transfer means with the bales aligned in the transfer means, and transferring the aligned bales onto the first bale carrier with the bales aligned in an elongated row.

In one example of the invention the bales are sequentially engaged by and picked up from the ground by the transfer means as the transporter is urged in a direction parallel to the direction of normal forward motion of the transporter.

In another example of the invention the bales are sequentially engaged and picked up from the ground by the transfer means as the transfer means is being urged in a direction parallel to the direction of normal forward motion of the transporter.

Preferably, the bales are retained on the first and second bale carriers by the transfer means during transporting of the bales on the bale transporter.

In another example of the invention the bales are discharged from the first bale carrier prior to discharging of the bales from the second bale carrier. Preferably, the bales are discharged from the first and second bale carriers onto the transfer means as the transfer means is being urged from the second state to the first state.

In another example of the invention the bales are released from the transfer means onto the ground by disengaging the bales from the transfer means.

In another example of the invention the bales are disengaged from the transfer means by moving the transfer means in a direction parallel to the direction of normal forward motion of the bale transporter.

The advantages of the invention are many. A particularly important advantage of the invention is that the bale carrying capacity of the bale transporter according to the invention is significantly improved over prior art bale transporters. In particular, the bale carrying capacity of the bale transporter according to the invention is double the capacity of bale transporters known heretofore for the same footprint.

The invention will be more clearly understood from the following description of some preferred embodiments thereof which are given by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:.

Referring to the drawings and initially to <FIG> thereof, there is illustrated a bale transporter according to the invention indicated generally by the reference numeral <NUM> for transporting a plurality of bales <NUM>, in this embodiment of the invention cylindrical bales of wrapped silage of the type which are commonly referred to as round bales, and typically are of diameter in the range of <NUM> metres to <NUM> metres and of axial length in the range of <NUM> metres to <NUM> metres. The bale transporter <NUM> is configured to carry four parallel rows <NUM> of bales <NUM>, with the bales <NUM> of each row <NUM> in end-to-end abutting relationship with each other and with the central geometrical axes <NUM> of the bales <NUM> in each row <NUM> axially aligned with each other and extending substantially parallel to the direction of normal forward motion of the transporter <NUM>, namely, in the direction of the arrow A. The rows <NUM> of the bales <NUM> are arranged in pairs with one pair of the rows 3a supported above the other pair of rows 3b as will be described below.

The bale transporter <NUM> comprises a chassis <NUM> extending between a forward end <NUM> and a rearward end <NUM> of the bale transporter <NUM>. The chassis <NUM> carries two pairs of ground engaging wheels <NUM> which are rotatably carried on respective axels <NUM> carried on the chassis <NUM>. A tow bar <NUM> described in further detail below extends from the forward end <NUM> of the chassis <NUM> for hitching the bale transporter <NUM> to a suitable towing vehicle (not shown), for example, a tractor. The chassis <NUM> comprises a forward cross-member <NUM> and a rearward cross-member <NUM>, both of which extend transversely relative to the direction of normal forward motion of the transporter <NUM> indicated by the arrow A. A pair of parallel spaced apart side members <NUM> extend between the forward and rearward cross-members <NUM> and <NUM>, and a plurality of parallel spaced apart intermediate cross-members <NUM> extend between and join the side members <NUM>.

A first bale carrier <NUM> for carrying one pair of the rows <NUM> of the bales <NUM>, namely, the lower pair of rows 3b adjacent each other is essentially defined by the chassis <NUM> and comprises a main framework <NUM> which is partly formed by and supported on the chassis <NUM>. The main framework <NUM> extends from the forward end <NUM> to the rearward end <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>, and comprises a main forward cross-member <NUM> and a main rearward cross-member <NUM>, both of which are supported on the side members <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>. Two parallel spaced apart longitudinally extending outer side members <NUM> are carried on the main forward and rearward cross-members <NUM> and <NUM> on respective opposite ends of the main forward and rearward cross-members <NUM> and <NUM>. Two parallel spaced apart longitudinally extending elongated inner members <NUM>, which are spaced apart inwardly from the outer side members <NUM>, cooperate with the corresponding outer side members <NUM> for supporting the two rows <NUM> of the bales <NUM> on the main framework <NUM>. The outer side members <NUM> and the inner side members <NUM> extend substantially parallel to the direction of normal forward motion of the transporter <NUM>.

A second bale carrier <NUM> comprising an elongated secondary framework <NUM> extending between the forward end <NUM> and the rearward end <NUM> of the chassis <NUM> is configured to carry one pair of the rows <NUM> of the bales <NUM>, namely, the upper row 3a of the bales <NUM>. The secondary framework <NUM> is moveable upwardly and downwardly as will be described below between a first state illustrated in <FIG> adjacent the main framework <NUM> for receiving the two rows <NUM> of the bales <NUM> and a second state illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG> to <NUM> spaced apart above the main framework <NUM> for supporting the upper pair of the rows 3a of the bales <NUM> above the lower pair of the rows 3b of the bales <NUM> on the main framework <NUM>.

In this embodiment of the invention the main framework <NUM> and the secondary framework <NUM> of the bale transporter <NUM> are each of length to carry two rows <NUM> each with three bales <NUM> in end-to-end abutting relationship. However, it will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that the chassis <NUM>, the main framework <NUM> and the secondary framework <NUM> of the bale transporter <NUM> may be of any desired length within reason and in some embodiments of the invention it is envisaged that the chassis <NUM>, the main framework <NUM> and the secondary framework <NUM> of the bale transporter <NUM> may be of length sufficient to carry rows <NUM> of bales <NUM> with up to eight bales <NUM> in each row <NUM> and in some cases up to ten bales <NUM> in each row <NUM>.

The secondary framework <NUM> comprises a secondary forward cross-member <NUM> adjacent the forward end <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>, and a secondary rearward cross-member <NUM> adjacent the rearward end <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>. Two parallel spaced apart longitudinally extending elongated outer side members <NUM> extend between the secondary forward and rearward cross-members <NUM> and <NUM> on respective opposite ends of the secondary forward and rearward cross-members <NUM> and <NUM>. Two parallel spaced apart longitudinally extending elongated inner members <NUM>, which are spaced apart inwardly from the outer side members <NUM> extend between the secondary forward and rearward cross-members <NUM> and <NUM> and cooperate with the corresponding one of the outer side members <NUM> for supporting the two corresponding rows <NUM> of the bales <NUM> on the secondary framework <NUM>. The outer side members <NUM> and the inner side members <NUM> extend parallel to the direction of normal forward motion of the transporter <NUM>.

A pair of upstanding support members, namely, a forward upstanding member <NUM> and a rearward upstanding member <NUM> extending upwardly from the chassis <NUM> adjacent the forward and rear ends <NUM> and <NUM>, respectively, thereof guide the secondary framework <NUM> between the first and second states, The forward upstanding support member <NUM> is secured and extends upwardly from a forward plate member <NUM> mounted on the chassis <NUM> adjacent the forward end <NUM> thereof. The rearward upstanding support member <NUM> is secured to and extends upwardly from a rearward plate member <NUM> mounted on the chassis <NUM> adjacent the rearward end <NUM> thereof. In this embodiment of the invention the forward and rearward upstanding support members <NUM> and <NUM> are formed of folded metal plate material each of which comprises a main central panel <NUM>, and a pair of side panels <NUM>. The side panels <NUM> are folded to form a pair of guide means, namely, guide channels <NUM> which act as guides for guiding the secondary framework <NUM> between the first and second states. Each guide channel <NUM> defines an open mouth <NUM>, and the open mouths <NUM> of the corresponding guide channels <NUM> face each other, as can be seen in <FIG>.

A pair of spaced apart guide rods <NUM> of box section steel joined by a top cross-member <NUM> are slideable upwardly and downwardly in the guide channels <NUM> in the corresponding one of the forward and rearward upstanding support members <NUM> and <NUM>.

A carrier means, in this embodiment of the invention comprising a pair of carrier members, namely, a forward carrier member <NUM> and a rearward carrier member <NUM> both of steel plate material are secured to the top cross-member <NUM> of guide rods <NUM> of the corresponding one of the forward and rearward upstanding members <NUM> and <NUM>. The forward and rearward carrier members <NUM> and <NUM> depend downwardly from the corresponding top cross-member <NUM> to the corresponding one of the secondary forward cross-member <NUM> and the secondary rearward cross-member <NUM> of the secondary framework <NUM>, and are secured thereto, so that the guide rods <NUM> sliding in the corresponding guide channels <NUM> of the forward and rearward upstanding support members <NUM> and <NUM> guide the secondary framework <NUM> between the first and second states thereof.

A first urging means, in this embodiment of the invention a pair of first double acting hydraulic rams <NUM> located within the respective forward and rearward upstanding members <NUM> and <NUM> act between the corresponding one of the forward and rearward plate members <NUM> and <NUM> and the corresponding top cross-members <NUM> of the guide rods <NUM> for urging the top cross-member <NUM> upwardly and downwardly, for in turn urging the secondary framework <NUM> upwardly and downwardly between the first and second states thereof. In this embodiment of the invention each first hydraulic ram <NUM> comprises a cylinder <NUM>, which is secured to the corresponding one of the forward and rearward plate members <NUM> and <NUM>, and a piston rod <NUM>, which is secured to the top cross-member <NUM> of the corresponding pair of guide rods <NUM> for urging the secondary framework <NUM> between the first and second states. In this embodiment of the invention the first hydraulic rams <NUM> also act as support means for supporting and releasably retaining the secondary framework <NUM> in the second state.

A pair of spaced apart reinforcing side plates <NUM> extend from each of the forward and rearward carrier members <NUM> and <NUM> to the corresponding ones of the corresponding pair of guide rods <NUM>, for in turn securing the corresponding forward and rearward carrier members <NUM> and <NUM> to the corresponding pair of guide rods <NUM>.

Each guide channel <NUM> is lined with three elongated substantially frictionless members <NUM> for slideably engaging the corresponding one of the guide rods <NUM> in the guide channels <NUM>. In this embodiment of the invention the frictionless members <NUM> are of a substantially frictionless nylon material.

A pair of transfer means, in this embodiment of the invention a pair of transfer elements <NUM> are located on the respective opposite sides of the chassis <NUM> for picking up bales <NUM> on the ground and for transferring the bales to a selected one of the main and secondary frameworks <NUM> and <NUM>, as will be described below. The transfer elements <NUM> are pivotally coupled to the chassis <NUM> on respective opposite sides thereof about respective spaced apart first longitudinally extending parallel spaced apart first pivot axes <NUM> which extend substantially parallel to the normal forward direction of motion of the bale transporter <NUM>. The transfer elements are pivotal about the corresponding ones of the first pivot axes <NUM> from a first state illustrated in <FIG> for picking up the bales on the ground, to a second state illustrated in <FIG>, and <FIG> for transferring the bales onto the selected one of the main and secondary frameworks <NUM> and <NUM>, as will be described below.

Each transfer element <NUM> comprises a forward end element <NUM> and a rearward end element <NUM> located adjacent the forward the rearward ends <NUM> and <NUM>, respectively, of the chassis <NUM>. Each of the forward and rearward end elements <NUM> and <NUM> comprises an arcuate member <NUM> which terminates at its respective opposite ends <NUM> and <NUM> in respective elongated first and second bale engaging members <NUM> and <NUM>, respectively, which will be described in more detail below.

The arcuate member <NUM> of each forward end element <NUM> is carried on a forward pivotal bracket <NUM>, which in turn is pivotally carried on a forward pivot shaft <NUM>, which in turn is carried on a corresponding pair of spaced apart forward carrier brackets <NUM> extending downwardly and outwardly from the corresponding side member <NUM> of the chassis <NUM> adjacent the forward cross-member <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>. The arcuate member <NUM> of each rearward end element <NUM> is carried on a rearward pivotal bracket <NUM>, which in turn is pivotally carried on a rearward pivot shaft <NUM>, which in turn is carried on a corresponding pair of spaced apart rearward carrier brackets <NUM> which extend downwardly and outwardly from the corresponding side member <NUM> of the chassis <NUM> adjacent the rearward cross-member <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>. An intermediate pivotal bracket <NUM> extends from the first bale engaging member <NUM> and is pivotally carried on an intermediate pivot shaft <NUM>, which in turn is carried on a corresponding pair of spaced apart intermediate carrier brackets <NUM> which extend downwardly and outwardly from the corresponding one of the side members <NUM> intermediate the forward and rearward cross members <NUM> and <NUM>, respectively. The forward, rearward and intermediate pivot shafts <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>, respectively, of each transfer element <NUM> define the corresponding first pivot axis <NUM> about which the corresponding transfer element <NUM> is pivotal from the first state to the second state.

A second urging means for urging each one of the transfer elements <NUM> between the first and second state thereof in this embodiment of the invention comprises three double acting second hydraulic rams, namely, a forward double acting hydraulic ram <NUM>, a rearward double acting hydraulic ram <NUM>, and an intermediate double acting hydraulic ram <NUM>. The forward, rearward and intermediate hydraulic rams <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> act between the chassis <NUM> and the corresponding one of the forward pivotal bracket <NUM>, the rearward pivotal bracket <NUM> and the intermediate pivotal bracket <NUM> of the corresponding transfer element <NUM> for urging the corresponding transfer element <NUM> between the first and second states. A cylinder <NUM> of each one of the forward, rearward and intermediate hydraulic rams <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> is coupled to the chassis <NUM> by a corresponding pivotal coupling bracket <NUM>. A piston rod <NUM> of each one of the forward, rearward and intermediate hydraulic rams <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> is pivotally coupled to the corresponding one of the corresponding forward, rearward and intermediate pivotal brackets <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>, respectively.

Returning now to the first and second bale engaging members <NUM> and <NUM> of the transfer elements <NUM>, the first and second bale engaging members <NUM> and <NUM> extend parallel to each other between the forward and rearward end elements <NUM> and <NUM>, and are spaced apart from each other a distance sufficient to define an elongated bale accommodating opening <NUM> therebetween to accommodate a lower portion of a bale resting on the ground therebetween. Additionally, the arcuate members <NUM> of the forward and rearward end elements <NUM> and <NUM> each define a bale accommodating opening <NUM> of diameter sufficient to accommodate a bale resting on the ground therethrough. The bale accommodating openings <NUM> of the forward and rearward end elements <NUM> and <NUM> define respective centres of radii which substantially coincide with the central geometrical axes <NUM> of the bales <NUM> of the corresponding row <NUM> located in the corresponding transfer element <NUM>. Thus, with one of the transfer elements <NUM> in the first state, by urging the transporter <NUM> towards a bale <NUM> resting on the ground, with the central geometrical axis <NUM> of the bale <NUM> aligned with the transfer element <NUM>, as the bale is being captured by the transfer element, the bale passes through the bale accommodating opening <NUM> in the forward end element <NUM>, and the first and second bale engaging members <NUM> and <NUM> of the transfer element <NUM> pass on opposite sides of the bale for subsequently engaging the bale for lifting the bale from the ground.

The longitudinal spacing between the forward and rearward end elements <NUM> and <NUM> of each transfer element <NUM> is such as to be greater than the total length of a full row <NUM> of the bales <NUM> axially aligned and in end-to-end abutting engagement in the corresponding transfer element <NUM>, so that the row <NUM> of the bales <NUM> can be discharged from the transfer element <NUM> onto the secondary framework <NUM> when the transfer element <NUM> is in the second state. This allows each transfer element <NUM> after discharge of a row <NUM> of the bales <NUM> onto the secondary framework <NUM> to be pivoted from the second state to the first state to pick up the next row <NUM> of bales <NUM> for transfer onto the main framework <NUM> once the secondary framework <NUM> has been urged from the first state to the second state.

Leading ends <NUM> and trailing ends <NUM> of the first and second bale engaging members <NUM> and <NUM> of each transfer element <NUM> are angled outwardly relative to the corresponding transfer element <NUM> for guiding a bale on the ground, in the case of the leading ends <NUM> into the corresponding transfer element <NUM>, and in the case of the trailing ends <NUM> for guiding the bales out of the transfer elements <NUM> during discharge of bales from the bale transporter <NUM>.

The first bale engaging member <NUM> and the second bale engaging member <NUM> of each transfer element <NUM> are located on the arcuate members <NUM> of the forward and rearward end elements <NUM> and <NUM>, so that the first bale engaging member <NUM> is closer to the chassis <NUM> than the second bale engaging member <NUM> for a reason to be discussed below. First and second struts <NUM> and <NUM> extend between the arcuate members <NUM> of the respective forward and rearward end elements <NUM> and <NUM> of each transfer element <NUM>. The first strut <NUM> of each transfer element <NUM> extends parallel with and close to but spaced apart from the first bale engaging member <NUM>. The second strut <NUM> of each transfer element <NUM> extends parallel with and close to but spaced apart from the second bale engaging members <NUM>, and is coupled to the respective arcuate members <NUM> of the transfer element <NUM> by respective mounting brackets <NUM> so that the second strut <NUM> is located spaced apart on the outer sides of the corresponding arcuate members <NUM> for a purpose to be described below. An intermediate bracket <NUM> connects each second strut <NUM> to the second bale engaging member <NUM> of the corresponding transfer element <NUM>.

The first and second bale engaging members <NUM> and <NUM> together with the first strut <NUM> of each transfer element <NUM> define a portion of the periphery of the bales <NUM> when located in the corresponding transfer element <NUM> for supporting the bales during transfer of the bales in the transfer element <NUM> from the ground to the selected one of the main and secondary frameworks <NUM> and <NUM>, as the transfer element <NUM> is being pivoted about the corresponding first pivot axis <NUM> from the first state to the second state. As well as the first and second bale engaging members <NUM> and <NUM> and the first strut <NUM> of each transfer element <NUM> supporting the bales as the bales are being transferred from the ground onto the selected one of the main framework <NUM> and the secondary framework <NUM>, when the bale transporter <NUM> is fully loaded with two rows 3b of bales <NUM> supported on the main framework <NUM> and two rows 3a of bales <NUM> supported on the secondary framework <NUM> above the two rows 3b of bales <NUM> on the main framework <NUM>, and with the transfer elements <NUM> in the second state, the first and second bale engaging members <NUM> and <NUM> and the first strut <NUM> of each transfer element <NUM> act to retain the corresponding rows 3b of bales <NUM> on the main framework <NUM>, and the second strut <NUM> of each transfer element <NUM> acts to retain the corresponding rows 3a of bales <NUM> on the secondary framework <NUM>.

A retaining means for retaining the transfer elements <NUM> in the second state comprise a pair of forward and rearward retaining members <NUM> and <NUM>, respectively, pivotally coupled to the chassis <NUM> by respective forward and rearward pivot pins <NUM> and <NUM> extending from the forward and rearward ends <NUM> and <NUM>, respectively of the chassis <NUM>. Each forward and rearward retaining member <NUM> and <NUM> is provided with a pair of retaining slots <NUM> and <NUM> on respective opposite sides of the corresponding one of the pivot pins <NUM> and <NUM>. The retaining slot <NUM> of each retaining member <NUM> and <NUM> faces in a generally downwardly direction, while the retaining slot <NUM> of each retaining member <NUM> and <NUM> faces in a generally upwardly direction, for engaging corresponding retaining pins <NUM> on the forward and rearward end elements <NUM> and <NUM>, respectively, of the respective transfer elements <NUM>. A third urging means comprising forward and rearward third hydraulic rams <NUM> and <NUM>, respectively, acting between the chassis <NUM> and the corresponding one of the forward and rearward retaining members <NUM> and <NUM> pivot the corresponding one of the retaining members <NUM> and <NUM> in the direction of the arrow B from a retaining state illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG> with the retaining slots <NUM> and <NUM> engaging the corresponding retaining pines <NUM> of the corresponding transfer elements <NUM>, to a release state (not shown) with the first retaining members <NUM> and <NUM> disengaged from the retaining pins <NUM> for permitting the transfer elements <NUM> to be pivoted between the first and second states.

A discharge means comprising a pair of discharge elements <NUM> for discharging the bales from the main and secondary frameworks <NUM> and <NUM> are pivotally coupled to the chassis <NUM> about respective spaced apart parallel longitudinally extending second pivot axes <NUM>. The discharge elements <NUM> are pivotal about the respective second pivot axes <NUM> in the directions of the arrows D from a rest state illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG> for supporting corresponding rows <NUM> of bales <NUM> on the main framework <NUM> to a discharge state for discharging the corresponding row <NUM> of bales <NUM> from the main framework <NUM>, and also from the secondary framework <NUM> when the secondary framework <NUM> is in the first state. In <FIG> both of the discharge elements <NUM> are illustrated in the rest state, and the left hand discharge element <NUM> is also illustrated in the discharge state. In <FIG> the right hand position of the discharge element <NUM> is the rest state, and the left hand position of the discharge element <NUM> is the discharge state. Each discharge element <NUM> comprises an elongated longitudinally extending discharge bar <NUM> for engaging the corresponding row <NUM> of bales <NUM> on the main framework <NUM> or the secondary framework <NUM>, as the case may be. The discharge bar <NUM> of each discharge element <NUM> terminates at its opposite ends in respective pivotal members <NUM>. The pivotal members <NUM> of each discharge element <NUM> are pivotally coupled to the chassis <NUM> by corresponding pivot shafts <NUM> mounted on the chassis <NUM>. The pivot shafts <NUM> of the pivotal members <NUM> of the corresponding discharge element <NUM> define the corresponding second pivot axes <NUM> about which the corresponding discharge elements <NUM> are pivotal between the rest state and the discharge state. A fourth urging means, namely, a pair of double acting fourth hydraulic rams <NUM> acting between the chassis <NUM> and each one of the pivotal members <NUM> of the corresponding discharge element <NUM> pivot the corresponding discharge element <NUM> about the corresponding second pivot axis <NUM> between the rest state and the discharge state of the corresponding discharge element <NUM>.

A transversely extending forward lower end frame <NUM> is mounted on the forward upstanding support member <NUM>, and a transversely extending rearward lower end frame <NUM> is mounted on the rearward upstanding support member <NUM>. The forward and rearward lower end frame <NUM> and <NUM> retain the two rows <NUM> of bales <NUM> on the main framework <NUM> during transportation thereof by the bale transporter <NUM>. A transversely extending forward upper end frame <NUM> extends from the forward carrier member <NUM> which carries the secondary framework <NUM> adjacent the secondary forward cross-member <NUM>, and a transversely extending rearward upper end frame <NUM> extends from the rearward carrier member <NUM> which carries the secondary framework <NUM> adjacent the secondary rearward cross-member <NUM>. The forward and rearward upper end members <NUM> and <NUM> retain the two rows <NUM> of bales <NUM> on the secondary framework <NUM> during transportation thereof on the bale transporter <NUM>.

Turning now to the tow bar <NUM>, the tow bar <NUM> is pivotally coupled to the chassis <NUM> by a pivot mounting bracket <NUM> which is secured to one of the intermediate cross-members <NUM> intermediate the forward cross-member <NUM> and the rearward cross-member <NUM>. The pivot mounting bracket <NUM> carries a carrier pivot shaft <NUM> which lies in a substantially vertical longitudinally extending plane, and is slightly forwardly upwardly inclined relative to a substantially vertically extending transverse plane, see <FIG> and <FIG>. The tow bar <NUM> is pivotally carried on the carrier pivot shaft <NUM> and extends substantially perpendicularly therefrom in a generally forwardly slightly downwardly inclined direction, so that the tow bar <NUM> extends beneath the forward cross-member <NUM>. A tow bar accommodating opening <NUM> is formed beneath the forward cross-member <NUM> by a lower forward cross-member <NUM> extending parallel to and spaced apart below the forward cross-member <NUM>, and by a pair of spaced apart parallel side members <NUM> which extend from the lower forward cross-member <NUM> upwardly to the forward cross-member <NUM> and secure the lower forward cross-member <NUM> to the forward cross-member <NUM>, with the tow bar accommodating opening <NUM> defined between the forward cross-member <NUM>, the lower forward cross-member <NUM> and the side members <NUM>. The tow bar <NUM> extends through the tow bar accommodating opening <NUM>, and is supported on the lower forward cross-member <NUM>. The side members <NUM> limit the extent of pivotal movement of the tow bar <NUM> from side to side about the carrier pivot shaft <NUM>. The forward cross-member <NUM> and the lower forward cross-member <NUM> within the tow bar accommodating opening <NUM> are lined with substantially frictionless nylon bearing plates <NUM> for accommodating sliding movement of the tow bar <NUM> within the tow bar accommodating opening <NUM> between the side members <NUM>.

A fifth urging means for urging the tow bar <NUM> about the carrier pivot shaft <NUM> within the tow bar accommodating opening <NUM>, between the opposite side members <NUM> comprises a double acting fifth hydraulic ram, namely, a tow bar operating ram <NUM> which acts between the forward cross-member <NUM> and the tow bar <NUM>. The tow bar operating ram <NUM> is pivotally coupled to the forward cross-member <NUM> by a pivot coupling bracket <NUM> and is coupled to the tow bar <NUM> by a pivot coupling bracket <NUM>. The tow bar operating ram <NUM> is operated under the control of an hydraulic control system (not shown) of the bale transporter <NUM> for selectively positioning the tow bar <NUM> to extend in a first state centrally and longitudinally from the chassis <NUM> and parallel to the normal forward direction of motion of the transporter <NUM> for facilitating towing of the transporter <NUM> behind a towing vehicle with the transporter <NUM> aligned with the towing vehicle, and in either one of a pair of second states with the tow bar <NUM> abutting either one of the side members <NUM> defining the tow bar accommodating opening <NUM> for facilitating towing of the transporter <NUM> behind a towing vehicle with the transporter <NUM> offset to one side of the path of traverse of the towing vehicle for facilitating picking-up of bales from the ground by the corresponding one of the transfer elements <NUM>, depending on the side member <NUM> to which the tow bar <NUM> is urged by the tow bar operating ram <NUM>.

The tow bar operating ram <NUM> is also controllable by the hydraulic control system (not shown) of the transporter <NUM> to incrementally move the tow bar <NUM> from the first state to either one of the second states into a desired position intermediate the first state and either one of the second states for steering the transporter <NUM> relative to the towing vehicle towards a bale on the ground, and in particular for fine tuning the alignment of the relevant one of the transfer elements <NUM> with the bale. By incrementally pivoting the tow bar <NUM> by the tow bar operating ram <NUM> about the carrier pivot shaft <NUM> the direction in which the bale transporter <NUM> is moving relative to the towing vehicle may be slightly altered for fine tuning the alignment of the relevant one of the transfer elements <NUM> with a bale resting on the ground to be picked up by the transfer element <NUM>.

The tow bar operating ram <NUM> as well as acting to urge the tow bar <NUM> between the first state with the tow bar <NUM> extending substantially centrally aligned with the transporter <NUM> and the respective second states with the tow bar <NUM> abutting a corresponding one of the side members <NUM> of the tow bar accommodating opening <NUM>, also acts as a second retaining means for retaining the tow bar in a selected one of the first and second states, and also in a selected intermediate state intermediate the first and second states.

In <FIG> and <FIG> the tow bar <NUM> is illustrated in two different positions.

In general, the bale transporter is constructed of steel. The chassis <NUM> is constructed of channel section steel, and the elongated members of the secondary framework and the transfer elements <NUM> are of tubular steel of circular transverse cross-section. The arcuate members <NUM> of the respective transfer elements <NUM> are of box section steel. Mounting brackets and pivot mounting brackets as well as other brackets in general are constructed of steel plate material.

In use, with the bale transporter <NUM> hitched to a prime mover, for example, a tractor or other towing vehicle by the tow bar <NUM>, and with the tow bar <NUM> retained by the tow bar operating ram <NUM> in the first state extending centrally through the tow bar accommodating opening <NUM>, in other words, extending through the tow bar accommodating opening <NUM> mid-way between the side members <NUM>, and with the secondary framework <NUM> in the first state, and the transfer elements <NUM> retained by the retaining members <NUM> and <NUM> in the second retaining state, the bale transporter <NUM> is towed by the towing vehicle to a field or other area from which bales are to be picked up and transported.

When the area within which the bales to be collected are located has been reached, with the secondary framework <NUM> in the first state, the first retaining members <NUM> and <NUM> are operated by the third hydraulic rams <NUM> and <NUM> into the release state, and one or both of the transfer elements <NUM> are pivoted from the second state into the first state to engage and pick up bales from the ground. The tow bar operating ram <NUM> is operated to urge the tow bar <NUM> from the first state to the appropriate one of the second states, so that the transporter <NUM> is offset sidewardly of the path of travel of the towing vehicle towards the first or the next bale which is to be picked up from the ground. The first or the next bale to be picked up is approached by the bale transporter <NUM> and with the appropriate one of the transfer elements <NUM> substantially aligned with the bale and also aligned with the central geometrical axis of the bale, so that when picked up by the transfer element <NUM> the central geometrical axis of the bale extends parallel to the direction of normal forward motion of the transporter <NUM>, and parallel to the first and second bale engaging members <NUM> and <NUM>, and also substantially coincides with the centre of radius of the bale accommodating opening <NUM> of the forward end element <NUM> of the corresponding transfer element <NUM>. If the appropriate one of the transfer elements <NUM> is not altogether aligned with the bale which is resting on the ground and which is to be picked up, the hydraulic ram <NUM> is operated to incrementally urge the tow bar <NUM> between the second states through the first state to alter the direction of travel of the bale transporter <NUM> relative to the towing vehicle in order to fine tune the alignment of the transfer element <NUM> with the bale to be picked up.

The bale transporter is then urged towards the bale on the ground with the first and second bale engaging members <NUM> and <NUM> of the relevant transfer element <NUM> on the respective opposite sides of the portion of the bale which is resting on the ground. As the transfer element <NUM> is urged further forwardly the forward end element <NUM> passes over the bale as the bale is being captured by the transfer element <NUM>. The bale transporter <NUM> is urged further forward until the bale is located within the transfer element <NUM> adjacent the forward end element <NUM>, and with the adjacent end of the bale substantially lying in a plane defined by the forward end element <NUM>. The transfer element <NUM> is then raised just sufficiently by the forward, rearward and intermediate rams <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> to raise the captured bale spaced apart above the ground, and the bale transporter <NUM> is towed to the next bale to be picked up,.

The next bale to be picked up by the transfer element <NUM>, which has already picked up a bale, is approached in a similar manner as already described with reference to the capturing of the first bale, and the bale transporter <NUM> is urged forwardly to capture the next bale, and is urged forwardly until the next bale is in end-to-end abutting relationship with the already captured bale. The transfer element <NUM> is lowered to the first state so that the already captured bale or bales are resting on the ground, and with the next bale in end-to-end abutting relationship with the last to be captured bale, the bale transporter <NUM> is urged forwardly to capture the next bale. As the next bale is being captured the already captured bale or bales are urged rearwardly in the transfer element <NUM> towards the rearward end element <NUM> by the capturing of the bale now being captured. The bale transporter <NUM> is urged forwardly until the next bale which is being captured is located within the transfer element with the exposed end of the just captured bale lying in the plane defined by the forward end element <NUM> of the transfer element <NUM>. This bale capturing procedure continues until a row <NUM> of three bales <NUM> have been captured in one of the transfer elements <NUM>. At that stage, if the secondary framework <NUM> is not in the first state, the secondary framework <NUM> is lowered into the first state by the first hydraulic rams <NUM>. The transfer element <NUM> with the row <NUM> of the three bales <NUM> is then pivoted from the first state by the forward, rearward and intermediate rams <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> into the second state to deposit the row <NUM> of the bales <NUM> on the secondary framework <NUM> to the adjacent side thereof. The transfer element <NUM> may remain in the second state until the other one of the two transfer elements <NUM> has picked up three bales. At which stage the other transfer element <NUM> is then pivoted from the first state to the second state in order to deposit the row <NUM> of the bales <NUM> on the secondary framework <NUM> adjacent the row <NUM> of bales <NUM> already deposited on the secondary framework <NUM>. The two transfer elements <NUM> are then pivoted from the second state to the first state, and the secondary framework <NUM> with the two rows <NUM> of bales <NUM> located thereon is then urged upwardly from the first state to the second state by the first rams <NUM>.

With the secondary framework <NUM> in the second state, two more rows <NUM> of three bales <NUM> are picked up by the two transfer elements <NUM>. As each transfer element <NUM> picks up a row <NUM> of three bales <NUM>, that transfer element <NUM> is pivoted from the first state to the second state by the forward, rearward and intermediate hydraulic rams <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> to deposit the row <NUM> of bales <NUM> on the main framework <NUM>. When both of the rows <NUM> of the bales <NUM> have been picked up by the two transfer elements <NUM> and have been deposited on the main framework <NUM>, the two transfer elements <NUM> remain in the second state, and the forward and rearward retaining members <NUM> and <NUM> are urged by the forward and rearward second hydraulic rams <NUM> and <NUM> from the release state to the retaining state for engaging the retaining pins <NUM> of the respective transfer elements <NUM> in the retaining slots <NUM> and <NUM> of the forward and rearward first retaining members <NUM> and <NUM>, respectively, for in turn retaining the transfer elements <NUM> in the second state. With the transfer elements <NUM> retained in the second state, the first and second bale engaging members <NUM> and <NUM> and the first strut <NUM> of the respective transfer elements <NUM> act to retain the two corresponding rows 3b of the bales <NUM> on the main framework <NUM> during transportation. The second struts <NUM> of the respective transfer elements <NUM> act to engage and retain the two rows 3a of the bales <NUM> on the secondary framework <NUM> during transportation. With the four rows <NUM> of bales <NUM> so retained on the bale transporter <NUM>, the tow bar <NUM> is urged by the hydraulic ram <NUM> into the first state extending centrally from and aligned with the bale transporter <NUM>, and the bale transporter <NUM> is then towed to an area where the bales are to be stored.

To discharge the bales <NUM> from the bale transporter <NUM>, each transfer element <NUM> is pivoted from the second state to the first state simultaneously while the corresponding one of the discharge elements <NUM> is being pivoted from the rest state to the discharge state. The sequence in which the bales <NUM> are discharged from the bale transporter <NUM> is as follows. Initially, the discharge elements <NUM> and the transfer elements <NUM> discharge the two rows <NUM> of bales <NUM> from the main framework <NUM> to the ground. The secondary framework <NUM> is then urged by the first hydraulic rams <NUM> from the second state to the first state, and two rows <NUM> of the bales <NUM> on the secondary framework <NUM> are discharged by the discharge elements <NUM> and the transfer elements <NUM> to the ground.

Initially, the forward and rearward retaining members <NUM> and <NUM> are pivoted by the forward and rearward hydraulic rams <NUM> and <NUM> from the retaining state to the release state in order to disengage the retaining members <NUM> and <NUM> from the retaining pins <NUM> of the respective transfer elements <NUM>. Each transfer element <NUM> is then pivoted from the second state to the first state simultaneously as the corresponding discharge element <NUM> is urged from the rest state to the discharge state for in turn discharging the corresponding row <NUM> of bales <NUM> from the main framework <NUM> to the ground. When the two rows <NUM> of bales <NUM> are resting on the ground, the bale transporter <NUM> is then towed forwardly thus leaving the two rows <NUM> of bales <NUM> on the ground as the two transfer elements <NUM> are urged forwardly relative to the bales <NUM> resting on the ground so that the bales <NUM> effectively pass through the rearward end elements <NUM> of the respective transfer elements <NUM>.

With the transfer elements <NUM> still in the first state, the two discharge elements <NUM> are urged from the discharge state to the release state by the fourth hydraulic rams <NUM>. The secondary framework <NUM> with the two rows <NUM> of bales <NUM> supported thereon is then urged downwardly from the second state to the first state by the first hydraulic rams <NUM>. With the secondary framework <NUM> in the first state, the transfer elements <NUM> are pivoted from the first state into the second state. The transfer elements <NUM> are then urged from the second state to the first state simultaneously as the discharge elements <NUM> are being urged from the rest state to the discharge state to discharge the two rows <NUM> of bales <NUM> from the secondary framework <NUM> to the ground. With these two rows <NUM> of bales <NUM> resting on the ground, the bale transporter <NUM> is urged further forwardly in order to disengage the transfer elements <NUM> from the two rows <NUM> of bales <NUM>.

When the four rows <NUM> of bales <NUM> have been discharged from the bale transporter <NUM>, with the secondary framework <NUM> in the first state, the transfer elements <NUM> are pivoted from the first state into the second state and are retained in the second state by the forward and rearward first retaining members <NUM> and <NUM>. The bale transporter <NUM> is then ready to pick up the next load of bales <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG> there is illustrated a bale transporter according to another embodiment of the invention indicated generally by the reference numeral <NUM>. The bale transporter <NUM> is substantially similar to the bale transporter <NUM>, and similar components are identified by the same reference numerals. Only the aspects of the bale transporter <NUM> which are different to the bale transporter <NUM> will be described.

In this embodiment of the invention the bale transporter <NUM> comprises a pair of discharge elements <NUM> which comprise respective discharge cradles <NUM>. Each discharge cradle <NUM> is of sheet metal and comprises a longitudinally extending central bale supporting panel <NUM> and a pair of downwardly extending side members, namely, an outer side member <NUM> and an inner side member <NUM> extending downwardly from the central bale supporting panel <NUM>. The bale supporting panel <NUM> and the outer and inner side members <NUM> and <NUM> terminate in their respective opposite ends in forward and rearward end members <NUM>. The end members <NUM> of each discharge element <NUM> are pivotally coupled to the chassis <NUM> by pivot shafts <NUM> carried on the chassis <NUM>, which define a second pivot axis <NUM> about which the corresponding discharge element <NUM> is pivotal between the rest and discharge states. A fourth urging means, namely, a pair of double acting fourth hydraulic rams <NUM> acting between the chassis <NUM> and the corresponding end member <NUM> of each discharge element <NUM>, pivots the corresponding discharge element <NUM> between the rest state and the discharge state.

The central bale supporting panel <NUM> of each discharge cradle <NUM> is configured to support the corresponding row <NUM> of bales <NUM> on the main framework <NUM> when the discharge element <NUM> is in the rest state.

Each discharge cradle <NUM> of each discharge element <NUM> is of length just less than the length of the main and secondary frameworks <NUM> and <NUM>, so that the end members <NUM> are located within the main forward and rearward cross-members <NUM> and <NUM> of the main framework <NUM>, and can operate within the secondary forward and rearward cross-members <NUM> and <NUM> of the secondary framework <NUM> when the secondary framework <NUM> is in the first state, in order to facilitate pivoting of the discharge elements <NUM> between the rest state and the discharge state.

In this embodiment of the invention since the discharge cradles <NUM> in the rest state support the corresponding rows <NUM> of bales <NUM> on the main framework <NUM>, the two inner members of the main framework <NUM> and the two outer side members of the main framework <NUM> are no longer required and are omitted from the bale transporter <NUM> of this embodiment of the invention. Accordingly, when each discharge element <NUM> is in the rest state, the central bale supporting panel <NUM> of each discharge cradle <NUM> forms a seat on which the corresponding row <NUM> of bales <NUM> is supported on the main framework <NUM>.

Two longitudinally extending upper support members <NUM> carried on respective pairs of upwardly extending carrier members <NUM>, which extend upwardly from the chassis <NUM>, engage the rows <NUM> of the bales <NUM> on the main framework <NUM>. The upper support members <NUM> also act to retain the rows <NUM> of the bales <NUM> on the discharge cradles <NUM> when the discharge element <NUM> is in the rest state. The upper support members <NUM> also act to correctly locate the rows <NUM> of the bales <NUM> on the main framework <NUM> and on the secondary framework <NUM> as the rows <NUM> are being delivered onto the main and secondary frameworks <NUM> and <NUM> by the transfer elements <NUM>.

Additionally, in this embodiment of the invention forward cylindrical guide rollers <NUM> are rotatably mounted on brackets <NUM> extending generally forwardly from the forward end element <NUM> of each transfer element <NUM> on respective opposite sides thereof for guiding and easing the bales into the transfer elements <NUM>. Rearward cylindrical guide rollers <NUM> are rotatably mounted in brackets <NUM> on the rearward end elements <NUM> on each side thereof of each transfer element <NUM> with the guide rollers <NUM> extending generally rearwardly from the rearward end elements <NUM>.

Otherwise, the bale transporter <NUM> and its operation and use is similar to that of the bale transporter <NUM> described with reference to <FIG>.

While the bale transporters have been described as being suitable for carrying two rows of bales on the main framework and on the secondary framework, in some embodiments of the invention it is envisaged that the bale transporters may be configured to carry only one row of bales on each of the main framework and the secondary framework, In which case, the bale transporter would be provided with only one transfer element and one discharge element.

It will be appreciated that while the bale transporters have been described as comprising transfer elements of a specific shape and construction, the transfer elements may be of any other suitable shape and/or construction. Needless to say, the main and secondary frameworks may be of any other suitable construction, and in some embodiments of the invention it is envisaged that the chassis may form the main framework for supporting the two lower rows of bales.

While the bale transporters have been described as being suitable for towing behind a vehicle, the bale transporters may be constructed as self-propelled vehicles.

Claim 1:
A bale transporter comprising a chassis (<NUM>) extending between a forward end (<NUM>) and a rearward end (<NUM>) and supported on at least a pair of rotatably mounted ground engaging wheels (<NUM>) spaced apart transversely relative to the direction of normal forward motion of the transporter, and a transfer means (<NUM>) configured to pick up bales from the ground with the bales in the transfer means (<NUM>) in an aligned state, characterised in that the chassis (<NUM>) defines an elongated first bale carrier (<NUM>), an elongated second bale carrier (<NUM>) is mounted on the chassis (<NUM>) and is moveable between a first state adjacent the first bale carrier (<NUM>) and a second state spaced apart upwardly above the first bale carrier (<NUM>), and the transfer means (<NUM>) is further configured to transfer the bales in the aligned state onto a selected one of the first and second bale carriers (<NUM>,<NUM>).