초록 ▼

A multi-section implement frame includes outer wing sections which fold relative to inner wing sections and then over a main center frame to a transport position. The wing sections include selectively extendable and retractable structure such as lift wheel assemblies which, if extended in the transp

A multi-section implement frame includes outer wing sections which fold relative to inner wing sections and then over a main center frame to a transport position. The wing sections include selectively extendable and retractable structure such as lift wheel assemblies which, if extended in the transport position, can interfere with each other. Transducers detect the position of the inner wing sections during folding and unfolding and provide signals to an implement control unit (ICU) to automatically operate the lift wheel assemblies to prevent interference during folding and unfolding and to assure the lift wheels are extended before the implement frame reaches the fully unfolded position. Proximity switches supported above the center frame or other transducer devices such as mercury switches on the wing sections responsive to section angle provide the signals to the ICU. During folding, the ICU causes the lift structure to retract after both switches are activated. During unfolding, the lift structure is extended only after there is no longer potential interference between components. Extension of the lift assemblies during unfolding is controlled by the ICU so that the frame is generally level in the fully unfolded position. The outer wing sections can be folded to narrow the machine when the ground is difficult to penetrate or when a narrow working width is required while still retaining implement operation under the control of the ICU.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.]1. A folding agricultural implement having a transversely extending central frame supported a distance above the ground, wing sections pivotally supported from opposite outer ends of the central frame for movement between an outwardly extending field-working position and a

[ What is claimed is:] [1.]1. A folding agricultural implement having a transversely extending central frame supported a distance above the ground, wing sections pivotally supported from opposite outer ends of the central frame for movement between an outwardly extending field-working position and a folded transport position over the central frame, lift assemblies connected to the wing sections and movable between extended working and retracted positions, the lift assemblies projecting towards each other when the wing sections are in the folded transport position, an implement control unit connected to the lift assemblies and controlling extension and retraction of the lift assemblies, wing position transducers connected to the implement control unit and responsive to movement of the wing sections between the field-working and transport positions and providing position signals to the implement control unit, and wherein the implement control unit is responsive to the position signals to retract the lift assemblies prior to the wing sections reaching the folded transport position to thereby prevent lift assembly interference in the transport position.