Independent hydraulic header lift and flotation system
US7168226B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 12, 2004 |
| Grant date | Jan 30, 2007 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 5, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA01D41/141
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A hydraulic lift/flotation system for the header of a crop harvesting machine wherein each side of the header is supported by a single cylinder, which performs both the flotation and lift functions. For even lifting and flotation of an unbalanced header, each cylinder has its own control valve, pump, and accumulator. The operator sets the desired flotation force by actuating rocker switches; one switch position allows hydraulic oil to enter an accumulator to reduce header contact force with the ground. The other position allows oil to exit the accumulator to increase header contact force with the ground. To evenly float an unbalanced header, separate switches adjust each side independently. Once the flotation forces are set, the control valves will return to this preset flotation condition whenever float mode is selected, regardless of subsequent header lift and lower operations.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.