Patent Description:
In various agricultural and other settings, it may be useful to form bales from crop (or other plant) material, such as hay or corn stover. Various machines or mechanisms may be utilized to gather material (e.g., from a windrow along a field) and process it into bales. <CIT> discloses a large square baler comprising a conventional rectangular conveyor press and a post-compression device. The conventional part of the bale press is provided with upright side wall portions which are movable about an upright shaft. The post-compression device comprises adjusting elements that are arranged transversely to the longitudinal direction of the relevant compression channel for pushing two upright walls together.

The formed bales may have various sizes and, in certain applications, may exhibit generally rectangular or other cross-sections. In order to create rectangular bales, for example, a "square" baler may travel along a windrow of cut crop material gathering the material into a baling chamber. A reciprocating plunger or other mechanisms may then compress the crop material into bales, which are subsequently output from the baler.

This disclosure provides a baler with segmented tension panels, which may improve control of the shape and density of bales formed with the baler.

According to the invention, a baler as defined by appended claim <NUM> is provided that includes a frame and a bale chamber structure that is supported by the frame. The bale chamber structure includes a plurality of walls that cooperate to define a baling chamber that extends along a longitudinal axis. The plurality of walls include a floor, a first side wall, a second side wall, and a top wall. The plurality of walls shape different sides of the bale. The first side wall include an upstream panel, a first segment panel, and a second segment panel. The first segment panel is moveably attached to the frame via a first joint, wherein the first joint is a first pivot joint, and the second segment panel is arranged in a downstream direction from the first segment panel with respect to the longitudinal axis. The second segment panel is moveably attached to the frame via a second joint, wherein the second joint is a second pivot joint, independent of the first segment panel. The first joint and the second joint are spaced apart along the longitudinal axis. The frame includes a first elongate member and a second elongate member that extend along the longitudinal axis. The first elongate member and the second elongate member are spaced apart in direction that is transverse to the longitudinal axis, and wherein at least one of the first joint and the second joint is attached to the first elongate member and the second elongate member. The first pivot joint is configured to rotate the first segment panel about an axis of rotation, in particular a first axis of rotation; wherein the first segment panel includes an upstream end, in particular a first upstream end, and a downstream end, in particular a first downstream end; and wherein the (first) axis of rotation is proximate the (first) upstream end. The (first) axis of rotation extends substantially along a vertical direction. In a further embodiment, the baler further comprising an actuator system with a first actuator and a second actuator. The first actuator is configured to actuate the first segment panel relative to the frame independent of the second segment panel. The second actuator is configured to actuate the second segment panel relative to the frame independent of the first segment panel. In another embodiment, the first actuator is configured to rotate the first segment panel relative to the frame about a first axis of rotation and the second actuator is configured to rotate the second segment panel relative to the frame about a second axis of rotation. In yet another embodiment, the baler further comprising a control system configured to communicate with the first actuator for controlled actuation of the first segment panel. The control system is configured to communicate with the second actuator for controlled actuation of the second segment panel. In a further embodiment, the bale chamber structure defines an inlet of the baling chamber and an outlet of the baling chamber. The baler further comprising a compaction member disposed proximate the inlet and configured to move the crop material away from the inlet toward the outlet and form the bale. The first segment panel is disposed proximate the compaction member and the second segment panel partly defines the outlet. In an embodiment, the first elongate member and the second elongate member are spaced apart to define an opening therebetween and he first segment panel and the second segment panel are received within the opening and are configured to move within the opening relative to the frame. In an embodiment, the plurality of walls include a first wall and a second wall that are configured to shape different sides of the pale. The first wall faces opposite the second wall across the baling chamber. The first wall includes the first segment panel and the second segment panel and the second wall includes a third segment panel that is moveably attached to the frame and a fourth segment panel that is arranged in a downstream direction from the first segment panel with respect to the longitudinal axis. The fourth segment panel being moveably attached to the frame. The fourth segment panel being decoupled from the third segment panel and configured for movement independent of the third segment panel. In a further embodiment, the first segment panel includes a first upstream end and a first downstream end. The second segment panel includes a second upstream end and a second downstream end. The second upstream end is disposed proximate the first downstream end. The first segment panel is configured for movement independent of the second segment panel to vary a gap defined between the second upstream end and the first downstream end. The first axis of rotation can extend substantially along a vertical direction. The second axis of rotation can extend substantially along a vertical direction.

According to the invention, a method of operating a baler is provided as defined by appended claim <NUM>. The method includes operating a baler having a bale chamber structure that defines a variable baling chamber that extends along a longitudinal axis. The baling chamber is partly defined by a wall configured to define a side of a bale of crop material. The method includes actuating a first segment panel of the wall relative to a frame about a first joint that moveably attaches the first segment panel to the frame. Furthermore, the method includes actuating a second segment panel of the wall relative to the frame about a second joint that moveably attaches the second segment panel to the frame independent of the first segment panel. In an embodiment, at least one of actuating the first segment panel and actuating the second segment panel includes rotating the one of the first panel and the second panel relative to the frame. In another embodiment, rotating the one of the first panel and the second panel relative to the frame includes rotating the one about an axis of rotation that extends substantially along a vertical direction. In a further embodiment, the method further comprising determining, by a processor of a control system, a baling chamber characteristic; wherein actuating the first segment panel includes actuating the first segment panel according to the baling chamber characteristic; and wherein actuating the second segment panel includes actuating the second segment panel according to the baling chamber characteristic. In another embodiment, the baling chamber characteristic is a dimension of the baling chamber. In a further embodiment, the baling chamber characteristic is a chamber pressure characteristic.

Other features and advantages will become apparent from the description, the drawings, and the claims.

The following describes one or more example embodiments of an agricultural baler with a baling chamber that is defined by a plurality of walls. The different walls are configured for shaping different sides of a bale of agricultural material. At least one side wall includes a plurality of segmented panels (i.e., doors, tension panels, etc.) that are arranged along the axis of the baling chamber. The segmented panels are decoupled from each other and configured for independent movement as shown in the accompanying figures of the drawings described briefly above. Various modifications to the example embodiments may be contemplated by one of skill in the art.

As used herein, unless otherwise limited or modified, lists with elements that are separated by conjunctive terms (e.g., "and") and that are also preceded by the phrase "one or more of" or "at least one of" indicate configurations or arrangements that potentially include individual elements of the list, or any combination thereof. For example, "at least one of A, B, and C" or "one or more of A, B, and C" indicates the possibilities of only A, only B, only C, or any combination of two or more of A, B, and C (e.g., A and B; B and C; A and C; or A, B, and C).

Furthermore, in detailing the disclosure, terms of direction, such as "forward," "rear," "front," "back," "longitudinal," "transverse," "lateral," "horizontal," and "vertical" may be used. Such terms are defined, at least in part, with respect to the direction in which the work vehicle or implement travels during use. The term "forward" and the abbreviated term "fore" (and any derivatives and variations) refer to a direction corresponding to the direction of travel of the work vehicle, while the term "aft" (and derivatives and variations) refer to an opposing direction. The terms "fore-aft axis" and "longitudinal axis" may also reference an axis extending in fore and aft directions. By comparison, the term "lateral axis" refers to an axis that is perpendicular to the fore-aft axis and extends in a horizontal plane; that is, a plane containing both the fore-aft and lateral axes. The term "vertical," as appearing herein, refers to an axis or a direction orthogonal to the horizontal plane containing the fore-aft and lateral axes. The term the "transverse direction" refers to the lateral direction or the vertical direction (i.e., transverse to the longitudinal axis).

The following describes one or more example implementations of the disclosed baler as shown in the accompanying figures. The disclosed baler, its method of manufacture and assembly, and its method of operation provide a number of benefits as compared to conventional balers.

Generally, the baler of the present disclosure may be supported for travel over a crop, ground, field, etc. by wheels mounted to a chassis. The baler may include a pick-up assembly for gathering crop material. The crop material gathered by the pick-up assembly may be routed upward and rearward through the baler and formed into flakes in some embodiments. The baler may also successively compress multiple flakes of crop material together using a bale chamber structure. The bale chamber structure may define a baling chamber wherein the flakes are compressed until the bale has been formed.

The bale chamber structure includes a plurality walls (i.e., structural members, tension panels, etc.) that define the inner surfaces of the baling chamber. The walls extend along a longitudinal axis of the baling chamber. The walls may contain the crop material and serve to restrict its movement as it travels through the baling chamber.

At least one side wall comprises a plurality of segment panels (i.e., doors, etc.). The segment panels may be arranged end-to-end along the longitudinal axis of the baling chamber in some embodiments. The segment panels are moveably attached to a frame of the baler independent of each other. The segment panels are pivotally (rotationally) attached to the frame via independent joints. Thus, the segment panels may be decoupled from each other. Accordingly, the segment panels move independent of each other when moving relative to the frame.

By moving the segment panels relative to each other, a cross section of the baling chamber (taken perpendicular to the longitudinal axis) and/or a longitudinal profile of the baling chamber (taken along the longitudinal axis) may be changed. Also, the forces on one segment panel may transfer directly to the frame, without transferring to another segment panel. More specifically, a force restraining one segment panel against longitudinal movement may transfer directly to the frame instead of transferring to another segment panel.

The baler may further include an actuator system for actuating at least one of the segment panels relative to another. In some embodiments, the actuator system may include an associated control system for controlling movement of the panels. Thus, the geometry of the baling chamber may be adjusted in a controlled manner. Also, pressure, compressive force, frictional force, and/or other loads on the flake or other crop material within the baling chamber may be controlled, adjusted, and finely tuned via control of the actuator system.

Accordingly, the density of the bale may be controlled. In other words, the baler of the present disclosure may repeatedly provide bales that have a substantially consistent density during operation, regardless of the particular characteristics of the crop material being baled. The baler may provide a wide range of extruding forces on the crop material, and the independently moveable segment panels may distribute the loads along the length of the baling chamber. Furthermore, the baler of the present is configured to distribute loads more evenly because of the segmented and independently moveable segment panels.

The baling chamber may also be adjusted, for example, according to one or more characteristics of the crop material. For example, the segment panels may be adjusted according to the type of crop, the moisture level of the crop material, or other characteristics.

Referring now to <FIG>, a work vehicle, such as a baler <NUM>, is depicted according to example embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the baler <NUM> may include one or more wheels <NUM> that are attached to a chassis <NUM>. The baler <NUM> is shown being towed by a towing vehicle <NUM>, such as a tractor. The towing vehicle <NUM> may be hitched to the baler <NUM> in some embodiments. It will be appreciated that the baler <NUM> may be towed by another vehicle without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. It will also be appreciated that the baler <NUM> may be self-propelled without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

The baler <NUM> may encounter a windrow or other arrangement of crop material (not shown) during travel through the field. A pick-up assembly <NUM> may gather the crop material and move it into a baling implement <NUM> for forming a bale <NUM> of the crop material. The baling implement <NUM> may be disposed rearward from the pick-up assembly <NUM> with respect to a travel direction of the baler <NUM>.

Generally, the baling implement <NUM> may include a frame <NUM> and a bale chamber structure <NUM>. The bale chamber structure <NUM> may define a baling chamber <NUM>. Crop material may move rearward along a longitudinal axis <NUM> of the baling chamber <NUM>, and the inner surfaces of the bale chamber structure <NUM> may compress and shape respective sides of the bale <NUM>, and the bale <NUM> may be output from the rear end of the baler <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the bale chamber structure <NUM> may be configured as a square baler, which is configured to form the bale <NUM> with a cuboid shape and with a rectangular and/or square cross section. However, it will be appreciated that the bale chamber structure <NUM> may be configured to form bales of other shapes without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

The bale chamber structure <NUM> and the baling chamber <NUM> are represented schematically in <FIG> according to example embodiments. As shown, the baling chamber <NUM> may be configured to include an inlet portion <NUM>, and a variable portion <NUM>. The inlet portion <NUM> may have a substantially fixed cross sectional area and/or longitudinal profile, whereas the cross sectional area and/or longitudinal profile may be selectively varied as will be discussed. An inlet <NUM> of the bale chamber structure <NUM> may be defined proximate the transition between the inlet portion <NUM> and the variable portion <NUM>, and the variable portion <NUM> may define an outlet <NUM> of the bale chamber structure <NUM>. The inlet <NUM> may receive crop material from the pick-up assembly <NUM> (<FIG>).

As shown in <FIG>, the baler <NUM> may further include a compaction member <NUM>. The compaction member <NUM> may be a reciprocating plunger <NUM> in some embodiments. The plunger <NUM> may be received at least partly within the inlet portion <NUM> of the baling chamber <NUM>. The plunger <NUM> may reciprocate back and forth along the axis <NUM>. The plunger <NUM> may reciprocate with respect to the bale chamber structure <NUM> to provide crop material into the baling chamber <NUM>. The plunger <NUM> may also operate in cooperation with the bale chamber structure <NUM> to compress the crop material within the baling chamber <NUM>. During operation, the plunger <NUM> may push the crop material against the internal surfaces of the chamber structure <NUM> and against previously formed flakes within the baling chamber <NUM>. This action may progressively form the bale <NUM> as the material moves rearward along the axis <NUM>. It will be appreciated that the baler <NUM> may include another compaction member <NUM> (other than a plunger <NUM>). For example, in an additional embodiment, the compaction member <NUM> may comprise an auger for moving and compacting the crop material within the baling chamber <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, the bale chamber structure <NUM> will be discussed in detail according to example embodiments. As shown, the bale chamber structure <NUM> includes a plurality of walls <NUM> that cooperate to define the baling chamber <NUM>. The walls <NUM> may extend along the axis <NUM> and may be configured for forming respective sides of the bale <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the plurality of walls <NUM> may include a floor <NUM>, a first side wall <NUM> (or also first wall <NUM>), a second side wall <NUM> (or also second wall <NUM>), and a top wall <NUM>. The first side wall <NUM> and the second side wall <NUM> are represented schematically in <FIG>. Furthermore, in <FIG>, the floor <NUM>, the first side wall <NUM>, and portions of the frame <NUM> are shown in detail.

The floor <NUM> may be horizontal and may be fixed to the frame <NUM> and/or the chassis <NUM>. The first and second side walls <NUM>, <NUM> may extend vertically from the floor <NUM> and may be spaced apart laterally to be disposed on opposite sides of the axis <NUM> of the baling chamber <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the top wall <NUM> may extend horizontally between the first and second side walls <NUM>, <NUM> and may be spaced vertically from the floor <NUM>. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the floor <NUM>, the first side wall <NUM>, the second side wall <NUM>, and the top wall <NUM> may collectively define the rectangular or square cross section (taken perpendicular to the axis <NUM>) of the baling chamber <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, features of the frame <NUM> that support the first side wall <NUM> will be discussed according to example embodiments. As shown, the frame <NUM> includes a first elongate member <NUM>. The first elongate member <NUM> may be a beam, bar, shaft, or other elongate structure that extends generally along the axis <NUM> of the bale chamber structure <NUM>. The first elongate member <NUM> may be substantially rigid and strong and may be constructed from steel or other suitable material. The frame <NUM> further includes a second elongate member <NUM>. The second elongate member <NUM> may also be a beam, bar, shaft, or other elongate structure that extends along the axis <NUM>. In some embodiments, the second elongate member <NUM> may be fixed to the chassis <NUM> of the baler <NUM>. The second elongate member <NUM> is spaced apart from the first elongate member <NUM> at a distance in the vertical direction (i.e., in a direction that is transverse to that of the axis <NUM>).

The frame <NUM> may additionally include one or more support members, such as a first support member <NUM>, a second support member <NUM>, and a third support member <NUM>. The first, second, and third support members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be struts, bars, blocks, or other strong structures. The support members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may extend vertically between and may be fixed at both ends to the first and second elongate members <NUM>, <NUM>. The first, second, and third support members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be spaced apart from each other along the axis <NUM> with the second support member <NUM> disposed between the first and third support members <NUM>, <NUM>.

The portion of the frame <NUM> represented in <FIG>, may support the first side wall <NUM> of the bale chamber structure <NUM>. To this end, the first elongate member <NUM>, the first support member <NUM>, the second elongate member <NUM>, and the second support member <NUM> may cooperatively define a substantially rectangular frame structure for supporting a portion of the first side wall <NUM>. Likewise, the first elongate member <NUM>, the second support member <NUM>, the second elongate member <NUM>, and the third support member <NUM> may cooperatively define a substantially rectangular frame structure for supporting another portion of the first side wall <NUM>.

Also, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the frame <NUM> may include a plurality of yokes, including an upstream yoke <NUM> and a downstream yoke <NUM>. The upstream yoke <NUM> may be disposed proximate the inlet <NUM>, and the downstream yoke <NUM> may be disposed proximate the outlet <NUM>. The yokes <NUM>, <NUM> may include a plurality of rigid and strong beams, brackets, etc., that are arranged to surround the walls <NUM> of the baling chamber <NUM>. The yokes <NUM>, <NUM> may be fixed to the first and second elongate members <NUM>, <NUM>. Also, in some embodiments, the yokes <NUM>, <NUM> may be fixed to the chassis <NUM> of the baler <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, the plurality of walls <NUM> will be discussed in detail according to example embodiments. The walls <NUM> are supported by the frame <NUM>. In some embodiments, one or more of the walls <NUM> may be fixed to the frame <NUM>. For example, the floor <NUM> may be fixed to the frame <NUM> in some embodiments.

Also, in some embodiments, at least one segment of at least one of the walls <NUM> may be moveably supported by the frame <NUM>. For example, in some embodiments, the first side wall <NUM>, the second side wall <NUM>, and the top wall <NUM> may include at least one portion that is moveably supported by the frame <NUM>.

Moreover, at least one side wall of the walls <NUM> is segmented along the axis <NUM>, and each segment is moveably supported by the frame <NUM>. These moveably-attached segments cooperatively define the respective wall <NUM> and are configured for shaping one side of the bale <NUM> as the crop material moves along the axis <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second side walls <NUM>, <NUM> include such segments as will be discussed in detail. It will be appreciated that the top wall <NUM> and/or the floor <NUM> may be similarly segmented.

The configuration of the first side wall <NUM> will now be discussed in detail according to example embodiments. It will be appreciated that the second side wall <NUM> may be similarly configured.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the first side wall <NUM> includes an upstream panel <NUM>, a first segment panel <NUM>, and a second segment panel <NUM>. The upstream panel and the first and second segment panels <NUM>, <NUM> may be relatively flat, wall-like, substantially rectangular panels. The upstream panel <NUM> may be fixed to the frame <NUM> such that the panel <NUM> remains substantially parallel to the axis <NUM>. The first segment panel <NUM> is moveably attached to the frame <NUM>, proximate the inlet <NUM> and the plunger <NUM>, and the second segment panel <NUM> is moveably attached to the frame <NUM>, proximate the outlet <NUM>. Accordingly, the upstream panel <NUM>, the first segment panel <NUM>, and the second segment panel <NUM> are arranged sequentially along the axis <NUM> to cooperatively define the first side wall <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the upstream panel <NUM> may define the inlet portion <NUM>, and the first and second segment panels <NUM>, <NUM> may cooperatively define the variable portion <NUM> of the first side wall <NUM>. Although the first side wall <NUM> includes two moveable segment panels (i.e., the first and second segment panels <NUM>, <NUM>) in the illustrated embodiment, it will be appreciated that there may be three or more segment panels in additional embodiments.

The first segment panel <NUM> may include an inner surface <NUM> that faces inward toward the axis <NUM> and an outer surface <NUM> that faces outward. The inner surface <NUM> may be substantially smooth and flat in some embodiments. The outer surface <NUM> may include a plurality of stiffening structures <NUM> (<FIG> and <FIG>) that extend along the axis <NUM> and that provide stiffening. The first segment panel <NUM> also includes an upstream end <NUM> (or also first upstream end <NUM>) and a downstream end <NUM> (or also first downstream end <NUM>) that extend vertically. Additionally, the first segment panel <NUM> includes an upper edge <NUM> and a lower edge <NUM> that extend horizontally.

Likewise, the second segment panel <NUM> includes an inner surface <NUM> that faces inward toward the axis <NUM> and an outer surface <NUM> that faces outward. The inner surface <NUM> may be substantially smooth and flat in some embodiments. The outer surface <NUM> may include the stiffening structures <NUM>. The second segment panel <NUM> also includes an upstream end <NUM> (or also second upstream end <NUM>) and a downstream end <NUM> (or also second downstream end <NUM>) that extend vertically. Additionally, the second segment panel <NUM> includes an upper edge <NUM> and a lower edge <NUM> that extend horizontally.

The first segment panel <NUM> is moveably attached to the frame <NUM>. The first segment panel <NUM> is pivotally attached to the frame <NUM> at a first pivot joint <NUM>. The first pivot joint <NUM> may extend vertically between the first elongate member <NUM> and the second elongate member <NUM> and may be attached to both. The pivot joint <NUM> may also be attached to the first segment panel <NUM>, proximate the upstream end <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the first pivot joint <NUM> may also be substantially coincidental with the end of the upstream panel <NUM>. The first pivot joint <NUM> may be a hinge configured for supporting rotation of the first segment panel <NUM> relative to the frame <NUM> about a vertical axis of rotation <NUM> (or also first axis of rotation <NUM>).

Accordingly, as represented in <FIG>, the first segment panel <NUM> may be supported for rotational movement between a first position (shown in phantom) and a second position (shown in solid lines) relative to the frame <NUM>. In the first position, the first segment panel <NUM> may be substantially parallel to the axis <NUM> and aligned with the first and second elongate members <NUM>, <NUM>. Also, in the first position, the first segment panel <NUM> may be received within the vertical opening defined between the first and second elongate members <NUM>, <NUM>. In contrast, in the second position (<FIG> and <FIG>), the first segment panel <NUM> may be disposed at an acute angle relative to the axis <NUM>, and the downstream end <NUM> may be rotated inwardly toward the axis <NUM> to be spaced apart from the first and second elongate members <NUM>, <NUM> (<FIG>).

Likewise, the second segment panel <NUM> is moveably attached to the frame <NUM>. The second segment panel <NUM> is pivotally attached to the frame <NUM> at a second pivot joint <NUM>. The second pivot joint <NUM> may also be attached to the second segment panel <NUM>, proximate the upstream end <NUM>. Accordingly, the second pivot joint <NUM> may be a hinge configured for supporting rotation of the second segment panel <NUM> relative to the frame <NUM> about a vertical axis of rotation <NUM> (or also second axis of rotation <NUM>). The second pivot joint <NUM> and its axis of rotation <NUM> may be spaced apart at a distance from the first pivot joint <NUM> and its axis of rotation <NUM> in a direction that is parallel to the axis <NUM>. Accordingly, like the first segment panel <NUM>, the second segment panel <NUM> may be supported for rotational movement between a first position (shown in solid lines) and a second position (shown in phantom lines) relative to the frame <NUM>.

Accordingly, the first segment panel <NUM> is moveably attached to the frame <NUM> (via the first pivot joint <NUM>) independent of the second segment panel <NUM>. Likewise, the second segment panel <NUM> is moveably attached to the frame <NUM> (via the second pivot joint <NUM>) independent of the first segment panel <NUM>. Thus, the first segment panel <NUM> may be supported for movement independent of the second segment panel <NUM> and vice versa. Specifically, the downstream end <NUM> of the first segment panel <NUM> may be pivoted inward and outward without affecting the position of the second segment panel <NUM>. Likewise, the downstream end <NUM> of the second segment panel <NUM> may be pivoted inward and outward without affecting the position of the first segment panel <NUM>. This is because the first segment panel <NUM> may be decoupled from the second segment panel <NUM>. The first and second segment panels <NUM>, <NUM> may be independently moved, for example, to vary the size of a gap <NUM> between the downstream end <NUM> of the first segment panel <NUM> and the upstream end <NUM> of the second segment panel <NUM>.

When the first segment panel <NUM> is in the first position, the downstream end <NUM> may be substantially aligned and/or coincidental with the upstream end <NUM> of the second segment panel <NUM>. Accordingly, the gap <NUM> may have a reduced size and the wall <NUM> may be substantially continuous and uninterrupted in this region. In contrast, when the first segment panel <NUM> is in the second position, the downstream end <NUM> may be disposed inwardly such that the size of the gap <NUM> is increased and the wall <NUM> is discontinuous in this region. Likewise, the second segment panel <NUM> may be moved between its first and second positions, for example, for varying a cross sectional area of the outlet <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the second side wall <NUM> of the baling chamber <NUM> may be similar to the first side wall <NUM>. Specifically, the second side wall <NUM> may include an upstream panel <NUM>, a third segment panel <NUM> and a fourth segment panel <NUM>. The third segment panel <NUM> may be moveably attached to the frame <NUM>, proximate the inlet <NUM>, and the fourth segment panel <NUM> may be moveably attached to the frame <NUM>, proximate the outlet <NUM>. Accordingly, the upstream panel <NUM>, the third segment panel <NUM>, and the fourth segment panel <NUM> may be arranged sequentially along the axis <NUM> to cooperatively define the second side wall <NUM>.

Moreover, as shown in <FIG>, the baler <NUM> may also include an actuator system <NUM>. Generally, the actuator system <NUM> may include a plurality of actuators, such as a first actuator <NUM> and a second actuator <NUM>, for actuating the segment panels <NUM>, <NUM> of the first side wall <NUM>. The actuator system <NUM> may include similar actuators for the segment panels <NUM>, <NUM> of the second side wall <NUM> as well.

The baler <NUM> may further include an associated control system <NUM> for controlling the first and second actuators <NUM>, <NUM>. The control system <NUM> may communicate with other systems or devices (including other controllers) in various known ways, including via a CAN bus of the baler <NUM> or the towing vehicle <NUM> wirelessly, hydraulically, or otherwise.

The first and second actuators <NUM>, <NUM> may be of any suitable type. For example, the first and second actuators <NUM>, <NUM> may include one or more hydraulic actuators. However, pneumatic actuators, electric motors, linear actuators, etc., may also be included without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

The first actuator <NUM> may be configured to rotate the first segment panel <NUM> relative to the frame <NUM> about the axis of rotation <NUM>. To this end, the first actuator <NUM> may be attached to the first segment panel <NUM> and may be attached to the upstream yoke <NUM>. In the embodiment of <FIG>, the first actuator <NUM> is illustrated as having a hydraulic cylinder that actuates laterally relative to the axis <NUM>; however, it will be appreciated that the first actuator <NUM> may be configured differently without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The first actuator <NUM> may also include a lever or other mechanism that provides a mechanical advantage for movement of the first segment panel <NUM> between its different positions. Likewise, the second actuator <NUM> may be configured to rotate the second segment panel <NUM> about the axis of rotation <NUM>.

The control system <NUM> may include a processor <NUM> and a plurality of sensors <NUM>. The sensors <NUM> may be of any suitable type, such as pressure sensors, proximity switches, voltmeters, and the like.

In some embodiments, at least one sensor <NUM> may be operably coupled to the plunger <NUM> to detect how much pressure that the plunger <NUM> is applying to the crop material and/or how much back pressure the crop material is applying to the plunger <NUM>. Also, at least one sensor <NUM> may be operably coupled to the actuator <NUM> to: (a) detect the load on the actuator <NUM> ; (b) detect the position and/or orientation of the first segment panel <NUM> ; and/or (c) detect another characteristic associated with movement of the first segment panel <NUM>. Also, at least one sensor <NUM> may be operably coupled to the actuator <NUM> for detecting similar conditions associated with the actuator <NUM> and/or the segment panel <NUM>.

The control system <NUM> may generate and send control signals to reciprocate the plunger <NUM>. The control system <NUM> may also generate and send control signals to the actuator <NUM> and/or the actuator <NUM> for moving and adjusting the first and/or second segment panels <NUM>, <NUM>. Likewise, the control system <NUM> may generate and send control signals to actuators for moving the third and fourth segment panels <NUM>, <NUM> of the second side wall <NUM>.

Various methods may be used for operation of the control system <NUM>. The processor <NUM> may determine a target characteristic of the baling chamber <NUM> (i.e., a baling chamber characteristic) before the baling process begins. In some embodiments, the processor <NUM> may determine a target longitudinal profile for the baling chamber <NUM>. The target profile may include, for example, target positions for the first, second, third and fourth segment panels <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. The control system <NUM> may generate and send control signals to the actuators such that the actual profile of the baling chamber <NUM> achieves the target profile determined by the processor <NUM>. Additionally, in some embodiments, the processor <NUM> may determine a target pressure for the actuator system <NUM> to apply to the segment panels <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and the control system <NUM> may generate and send control signals to the actuators for achieving the target loads.

Also, in some embodiments, the sensor(s) <NUM> may provide respective feedback signals back to the processor <NUM>. The processor <NUM> may receive the feedback and process the feedback for various purposes. For example, the feedback may allow the processor <NUM> to determine how to adjust the position and/or pressure on the segment panels <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. Ultimately, the control system <NUM> may make these adjustments to provide the bale <NUM> with a predetermined shape and geometry and with a predetermined density.

Accordingly, the baler <NUM> of the present disclosure provides a highly adjustable and controllable baling chamber <NUM>. The baling chamber <NUM> may be varied to, for example, change the cross-sectional area (and, thus, the longitudinal profile) of the baling chamber <NUM>. The baling chamber <NUM> may also be adjusted to vary and control the amount of friction between the crop material and the internal surface of the bale chamber structure <NUM>. Accordingly, the baler <NUM> of the present disclosure may repeatedly provide bales <NUM> that have a substantially consistent shape and density during operation, regardless of the quality of the crop material being baled.

Furthermore, because the walls <NUM>, <NUM> are segmented, excessive rebound of the crop material (i.e., movement of the crop material upstream along the axis <NUM>) may be avoided. For example, the downstream end <NUM> of the first segment panel <NUM> may block crop material that tends to rebound in the upstream direction, especially when moved inward toward the axis <NUM>. The third segment panel <NUM> may similarly prevent rebound of the crop material.

Also, the segments of the walls <NUM>, <NUM> are relatively short (as measured along the axis <NUM>), especially as compared to existing chamber structures with a single pivoting panel that extends along the entire length of the chamber. Accordingly, the segment panels <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be stiffer and may resist bending due to the reduced length. This feature may also allow for more uniformly distributed pressure against the surfaces of the bale <NUM>. Moreover, the plurality of pivot joints <NUM>, <NUM> distributes loads more evenly to the frame <NUM> as compared to conventional bale chamber structures.

Moreover, in some cases, adjustments to the segment panels <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be less dependent on crop conditions as compared to existing bale chamber structures. This is because there is reduced contact area between the segment panels <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and the crop material.

In addition, the bale chamber structure <NUM> may be relatively short as compared to those of the prior art. This may improve transport mobility of the baler <NUM>.

Lastly, the baler <NUM> may facilitate ejection of the crop material. For example, at the end of a run, the user may wish to remove the last of the crop material from the baling chamber <NUM>. Because the second segment panel <NUM> is relatively short, the actuator <NUM> may only need to move through a small stroke to move the second segment panel <NUM> sufficiently for removal of the crop material. The same may be true for the fourth segment panel <NUM> and its actuator.

Thus, the baler <NUM> provides a high degree of precision when adjusting the baling chamber <NUM>. Also, several features provide added convenience for the user.

Claim 1:
A baler configured to form a bale (<NUM>) of crop material, the baler (<NUM>) comprising:
a frame (<NUM>);
a bale chamber structure (<NUM>) that is supported by the frame (<NUM>), the bale chamber structure (<NUM>) including a plurality of walls (<NUM>) that cooperate to define a baling chamber (<NUM>) that extends along a longitudinal axis (<NUM>), the plurality of walls (<NUM>) include a floor (<NUM>), a first side wall (<NUM>), a second side wall (<NUM>), and a top wall (<NUM>);
the plurality of walls (<NUM>) configured to shape different sides of the bale (<NUM>), the first side wall (<NUM>) includes an upstream panel (<NUM>), a first segment panel (<NUM>), and a second segment panel (<NUM>), wherein the first segment panel (<NUM>) is moveably attached to the frame (<NUM>) via a first joint, wherein the first joint is a first pivot joint (<NUM>); and the second segment panel (<NUM>) is arranged in a downstream direction from the first segment panel (<NUM>) with respect to the longitudinal axis (<NUM>), the second segment panel (<NUM>) being moveably attached to the frame (<NUM>) via a second joint independent of the first segment panel (<NUM>), and the second joint is a second pivot joint (<NUM>); and wherein the first joint and the second joint are spaced apart along the longitudinal axis (<NUM>),
wherein the frame (<NUM>) includes a first elongate member (<NUM>) and a second elongate member (<NUM>) that extend along the longitudinal axis (<NUM>);
wherein the first elongate member (<NUM>) and the second elongate member (<NUM>) are spaced apart in direction that is transverse to the longitudinal axis (<NUM>); and wherein at least one of the first joint and the second joint is attached to the first elongate member (<NUM>) and the second elongate member (<NUM>), wherein the first pivot joint (<NUM>) is configured to rotate the first segment panel (<NUM>) about an axis of rotation (<NUM>); wherein the first segment panel (<NUM>) includes an upstream end (<NUM>) and a downstream end (<NUM>); and wherein the axis of rotation (<NUM>) is proximate the upstream end (<NUM>), and wherein the axis of rotation (<NUM>) extends substantially along a vertical direction.