Cutting angle adjustment mechanism for crop harvesting machines

Abstract

A mechanism for changing the cutting angle of the cutterbar on a crop harvestng machine, such as a mower-conditioner or windrower, relative to the ground is disclosed wherein the cutting angle can be changed while the harvesting machine is being operated. This on-the-go adjustment mechanism includes a hydraulic cylinder positioned as the top link between the frame of the harvesting machine and the header in which the cutterbar is mounted. Changes in the length of the hydraulic cylinder affect a pivotal movement of the header about the lower links interconnecting the frame and the header to change the angle of the cutterbar relative to the ground. By connecting the cutting angle adjustment cylinder to the hydraulic circuit for the header lift cylinders and by sizing the bore of the angling cylinder such that its stroke is activated prior to activation of the lift cylinders, the cutterbar cutting angle can be varied from the operator's seat through manipulation of the hydraulic control lever for the header lift system while the machine is in motion cutting crop. An adjustment bracket is provided with various stop settings to control the range of the adjustment of the cutting angle obtainable through manipulation of the angling cylinder.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.