BALER POWER MANAGEMENT

Abstract

A combination includes a towing vehicle and a baler. The towing vehicle includes a drive train, and the baler includes a pick-up unit and a baling unit. The baling unit can be driven with a first energy value and the pick-up unit can be driven with a second energy value. A control unit is configured to receive or determine an energy consumption signal or a PTO consumption signal and to determine a total energy value with the energy consumption signal or the PTO consumption signal. The control unit is also configured to compare the total energy value with a baler consumption value and to set and/or adjust a driving signal for controlling a speed of the combination if the total energy value is different from the baler consumption value.

Claims

1. A combination comprising: a towing vehicle including a drive train for driving the towing vehicle, and a PTO unit; a baler including a pick-up unit for picking up crop from the ground and feeding the crop into a baling unit, wherein the baling unit is configured for receiving the crop from the pick-up unit and for forming the crop into a bale; wherein the baling unit can be driven with a first energy value and the pick-up unit can be driven with a second energy value; a control unit connected to the drive train; wherein the control unit is configured to receive or determine one of an energy consumption signal or a PTO consumption signal, and to determine a total energy value from the energy consumption signal or the PTO consumption signal; and wherein the control unit is also configured to compare the total energy value with a baler consumption value and to set and/or adjust a driving signal to control a speed of the drive train when the total energy value is different from the baler consumption value.

2. The combination set forth in claim 1, wherein the control unit is configured to compare the total energy value with a baler consumption value and to set and/or adjust a density of the bale with an actuating signal if the total energy value is different from the baler consumption value.

3. The combination set forth in claim 1, wherein the baler consumption value is equal to the sum of the first and second energy values.

4. The combination set forth in claim 1, further comprising a first sensor for capturing the first energy value of the baling unit and for capturing the second energy value of the pick-up unit, wherein the control unit is connected to the first sensor, and the control unit is configured to determine the sum of the first and second energy values using the signal from the first sensor.

5. The combination set forth in claim 1, further comprising a first sensor for capturing the first energy value of the baling unit and a second sensor for capturing the second energy value of the pick-up unit, wherein the control unit is connected to the first and second sensors, and the control unit is configured to determine the first and second energy values and the sum of the first and second energy values using the signals from the first and second sensors.

6. The combination set forth in claim 5, further comprising a drive unit which is mechanically connected to the baling unit and the pick-up unit and can be used to drive the baling unit and the pick-up unit.

7. The combination set forth in claim 6, wherein the first energy value can be determined with the first sensor on a first drive shaft of the drive unit and the second energy value can be determined with the second sensor on a second drive shaft of the drive unit, or the sum of the first and second energy values can be determined with the first sensor on an output shaft or a transmission unit of the drive unit.

8. The combination set forth in claim 1, wherein, when the total energy value is different from the baler consumption value, the control unit is configured: to set an output size of the fully formed bale, wherein the output size defines when the fully formed bale is output; to set and/or adjust a speed of the drive train with the driving signal; and/or to set and/or adjust a density of the bale with the actuating signal; and to not change the output size.

9. The combination set forth in claim 8, wherein the output size is based on one of a volume of the bale, a diameter of the bale, a radius of the bale, or a mass of the bale, a tension of the baling means, or a distribution of the crop, in particular a lateral distribution of the crop in the swath.

10. The combination set forth in claim 2, wherein the control unit is configured to set and/or adjust, in particular maintain, a density of the bale with a second actuating signal if the first energy value is different from a presently required energy value of the baling unit.

11. The combination set forth in claim 1, wherein the control unit is configured to control an input and output unit based on the driving signal, with the result that the input and output unit signals to the operator to change a speed of the towing vehicle.

12. A baler for a towing vehicle-baler combination, the baler comprising: a pick-up unit for picking up crop from the ground and feeding the crop into a baling unit, wherein the baling unit is configured for receiving the crop from the pick-up unit and for forming the crop into a bale; wherein the baling unit can be driven with a first energy value and the pick-up unit can be driven with a second energy value; a control unit configured for connection to a drive train of a towing vehicle; wherein the control unit is configured to receive or determine one of an energy consumption signal or a PTO consumption signal, and to determine a total energy value from the energy consumption signal or the PTO consumption signal; and wherein the control unit is also configured to compare the total energy value with a baler consumption value and to set and/or adjust a driving signal to control a speed of the drive train when the total energy value is different from the baler consumption value.

13. The baler set forth in claim 12, wherein the control unit is configured to compare the total energy value with a baler consumption value and to set and/or adjust a density of the bale with an actuating signal if the total energy value is different from the baler consumption value.

14. The baler set forth in claim 12, further comprising a first sensor for capturing the first energy value of the baling unit and for capturing the second energy value of the pick-up unit, wherein the control unit is connected to the first sensor, and the control unit is configured to determine the sum of the first and second energy values using the signal from the first sensor.

15. The baler set forth in claim 12, further comprising a first sensor for capturing the first energy value of the baling unit and a second sensor for capturing the second energy value of the pick-up unit, wherein the control unit is connected to the first and second sensors, and the control unit is configured to determine the first and second energy values and the sum of the first and second energy values using the signals from the first and second sensors.

16. The baler set forth in claim 12, further comprising a drive unit which is mechanically connected to the baling unit and the pick-up unit and can be used to drive the baling unit and the pick-up unit.

17. The baler set forth in claim 16, wherein the first energy value can be determined with the first sensor on a first drive shaft of the drive unit and the second energy value can be determined with the second sensor on a second drive shaft of the drive unit, or the sum of the first and second energy values can be determined with the first sensor on an output shaft or a transmission unit of the drive unit.

18. The baler set forth in claim 12, wherein, when the total energy value is different from the baler consumption value, the control unit is configured: to set an output size of the fully formed bale, wherein the output size defines when the fully formed bale is output; and to set and/or adjust a speed of the drive train with the driving signal; and/or to set and/or adjust a density of the bale with the actuating signal; and to not change the output size.

19. The baler set forth in claim 18, wherein the output size is based on one of a volume of the bale, a diameter of the bale, a radius of the bale, or a mass of the bale, a tension of the baling means, or a distribution of the crop, in particular a lateral distribution of the crop in the swath.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0095] FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of a first exemplary embodiment of a baler according to the disclosure.

[0096] FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of a first exemplary embodiment of a combination according to the disclosure.

[0097] FIG. 3 is a schematic illustration of a first exemplary embodiment of a drive unit of the combination according to the disclosure.

[0098] FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration of a further exemplary embodiment of a drive unit of the combination according to the disclosure.

[0099] FIG. 5 is a schematic flowchart of a method according to the disclosure for operating the baler or the combination.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0100] Those having ordinary skill in the art will recognize that terms such as above, below, upward, downward, top, bottom, etc., are used descriptively for the figures, and do not represent limitations on the scope of the disclosure, as defined by the appended claims. Furthermore, the teachings may be described herein in terms of functional and/or logical block components and/or various processing steps. It should be realized that such block components may be comprised of any number of hardware, software, and/or firmware components configured to perform the specified functions.

[0101] The terms forward, rearward, left, and right, when used in connection with a moveable implement and/or components thereof are usually determined with reference to the direction of travel during operation, but should not be construed as limiting. The terms longitudinal and transverse are usually determined with reference to the fore-and-aft direction of the implement relative to the direction of travel during operation, and should also not be construed as limiting.

[0102] Terms of degree, such as generally, substantially or approximately are understood by those of ordinary skill to refer to reasonable ranges outside of a given value or orientation, for example, general tolerances or positional relationships associated with manufacturing, assembly, and use of the described embodiments.

[0103] As used herein, e.g. is utilized to non-exhaustively list examples, and carries the same meaning as alternative illustrative phrases such as including, including, but not limited to, and including without limitation. 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, at least one of, at least, or a like phrase, 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 and one or more of A, B, and C each indicate the possibility of only A, only B, only C, or any combination of two or more of A, B, and C (A and B; A and C; B and C; or A, B, and C). As used herein, the singular forms a, an and the are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Further, comprises, includes, and like phrases are intended to specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

[0104] Referring to the Figures, wherein like numerals indicate like parts throughout the several views, FIG. 1 shows a schematic illustration of a first exemplary embodiment of a baler 10 according to the disclosure. The baler 10 comprises a pick-up unit 20 for picking up crop from the ground and feeding the crop into a baling unit 22. The baler 10 also comprises the baling unit 22 in order to form or bale the picked-up crop into a bale 200. In particular, the baler 10 may comprise a baler control unit 24 or a control unit 104. The baler 10 can comprise a baler frame 26. The baler frame 26 can be supported on wheels 28. The baling unit 22 can be arranged at or on the baler frame 26, preferably connected to the latter and/or fastened to the latter and/or supported on the latter.

[0105] The baler 10 is designed with a variable-size baling unit 22 or baling chamber. The baling means 30 is designed as one or more bands or straps or belts. The baling means 30 surrounds the baling unit 22 or baling chamber and is guided by rollers 32. However, the baler 10 can also comprise a size-invariable baling unit 22 or baling chamber. In this case, the baling means can be designed as one or more baling rollers, in particular a multiplicity of baling rollers running parallel to one another, for baling the crop.

[0106] The pick-up unit 20, in particular in the form of a pick-up, is arranged on the baler 10 and/or connected thereto, in particular below the front edge of the baler 10. The pick-up unit 20 can comprise tines moving or rotating about a transverse axis. The pick-up unit 20 can be followed in a crop flow direction by a conveyor unit, presently a conveyor belt 34, of the baler 10. The conveyor belt 34 could also be replaced by a rotor (not shown), or a rotor could be inserted in the crop flow direction between the pick-up unit 20 and the conveyor belt 34. Instead of the pick-up unit 20, in particular the pick-up, other suitable crop pick-up means, such as mowing and conveyor units, could also be used. The pick-up unit 20 collects crop that is lying in the field, in particular in a swath 36 of grass, hay or straw, for example, and feeds the crop to the baling unit 22. The baling means 30 can be set in motion in the longitudinal direction thereof during a baling process by driving one or more of the rollers 32 in rotation. The crop introduced into the baling unit 22 therefore also rotates during baling. During the baling process, the size of the baling unit 22 increases over time. The baler 10 comprises an ejection unit 38, for example an ejection flap or a rear part or a tailgate of the baler 10. The ejection unit 38 is pivotably mounted on the baler 10, in particular on the baler frame 26 or on a housing part. The ejection unit 38 is pivotable about an axis 40 which extends transversely to the forward direction 300 of a towing vehicle 12 (see FIG. 2) and/or of the baler 10. The ejection unit 38 can be moved between a first position, in which the baling unit 22 is closed, and a second position, in which the baling unit 22 is open for the purpose of unloading the bale. In addition, the baler 10 may comprise a ramp 42 in order to deposit the bale 200 on the ground 44.

[0107] The baler 10 can comprise a wrapping unit 48. The wrapping unit 48 can be arranged on the baling unit 22. The wrapping unit 48 can be connected to the baler control unit 24 or the control unit 104. The baler control unit 24 or the control unit 104 may be configured to set and/or adjust the wrapping unit 48 in order to deliver a wrapping material, such as twine, tape, mesh or film, to the baling unit 22. The rotating bale 200 can pull on the wrapping material or trap same such that it is then wrapped around the bale 200. A wrapping sensor 50 can interact with the wrapping unit 48 and sense whether, for example, the bale 200 is pulling on the packaging or the wrapping process is complete.

[0108] The baling unit 22 can be driven with a first energy value and the pick-up unit 20 can be driven with a second energy value. The baler control unit 24 or the control unit 104 may be connected to the pick-up unit 20 and the baling unit 22, preferably connected for signalling and/or operatively coupled and/or connected for transmitting signals and/or conducting data.

[0109] The pick-up unit 20 and the baling unit 22 can be controlled and/or set and/or adjusted using the control unit or the baler control unit 24 or the control unit 104. The control unit 104 or the baler control unit 24 is configured to receive an energy consumption signal or a PTO consumption signal and to ascertain, in particular determine and/or calculate, a total energy value with the received signal. The control unit 104 or the baler control unit 24 is also configured to compare the total energy value with a baler consumption value, and to send a driving signal for setting and/or adjusting the speed of the baler if the total energy value is different from the baler consumption value.

[0110] FIG. 2 shows a schematic illustration of a first exemplary embodiment of a combination 1 according to the disclosure of a towing vehicle 12 with a drive train 80 for driving the combination 1, in particular the towing vehicle 12, and a baler 10 according to the disclosure pulled by the towing vehicle 12 by means of a drawbar 14, in particular according to FIG. 1. The baler 10 shown in FIG. 2 corresponds substantially to the baler 10 shown in FIG. 1, and therefore only details and/or differences are discussed below. The baler 10 shown in FIG. 1 may have the additional features and properties described below.

[0111] The towing vehicle 12 comprises the drive train 80. The towing vehicle 12, in particular the drive train 80, comprises the motor 82, for example an internal combustion engine or an electric motor. The towing vehicle 12, in particular the drive train 80, can also comprise a transmission unit 82, in particular a transmission. The motor 82 can also be mechanically connected directly or indirectly to an input shaft 70 of the drive unit 56 of the baler 10.

[0112] The combination 1, in particular the towing vehicle 12, comprises the input and output unit 100 and the control unit 104. However, the combination 1, in particular the towing vehicle 12, may also comprise the towing vehicle control unit 102. The baler control unit 24 and the towing vehicle control unit 102 may be integrated in the control unit 104. The control unit 104 or the towing vehicle control unit 102 may be arranged on or in the towing vehicle 12. The control unit 104 may have the structure and all functionalities and all connections of the baler control unit 24 and the towing vehicle control unit 102 and may control said sensors and/or actuators and/or valves and/or valve arrangements.

[0113] The drive train 80 and/or its components, for example the drive motor 82 and/or the transmission unit 84, can be connected to and/or controlled and/or set and/or adjusted by the control unit 104 or towing vehicle control unit 102. The control unit 104 or towing vehicle control unit 102 can be connected to the input and output unit 100, preferably connected for signalling and/or operatively coupled and/or connected for transmitting signals and/or conducting data. By means of the input and output unit 100 arranged in a cab 88 of the towing vehicle 12, data and/or commands input into the input and output unit 100 by an operator of the combination 1 can be transmitted to or received by the control unit 104 or the towing vehicle control unit 102. Likewise, data and/or commands can be output using the input and output unit 100.

[0114] The towing vehicle 12 can comprise a towing vehicle frame 90, in particular can be supported on the towing vehicle frame 90. The towing vehicle frame 90 can be supported on ground engagement means. The ground engagement means, shown here in the form of front wheels 92 and rear wheels 94, are engaged with a hard surface for transmitting drive forces, and/or the towing vehicle 12 is supported with these on the hard surface or ground. The ground engagement means, in particular the front wheels 92 and rear wheels 94, can be steerable and/or movable. The cab 24 can be supported by the towing vehicle frame 90. Moreover, an operator's workstation and/or the input and output unit 100 can be situated in the cab 24. The towing vehicle 12 comprises a front axle 96 and a rear axle 98. The rear axle 98 can be driven, in particular permanently, and the front axle 96 cannot be driven, in particular permanently, by the drive train 80, or can be driven in an activatable manner as required. The front axle 96 and/or in particular the rear axle 98 can be set and/or adjusted using a steering device, particularly preferably a steering actuator. The combination 1, in particular the towing vehicle 12, can be driven by or using the drive train 80, in particular the motor 82. For this purpose, the motor 82 can transmit a rotational speed and/or a torque to the front and/or rear axle 96, 98 and the ground engagement means via the transmission unit 84, with the result that the combination 1, in particular the towing vehicle 12, is driven. The towing vehicle 12 can also comprise, for example, an accelerator pedal 110 or a hand throttle lever not shown. Directional details, such as front and rear, left and right, hereunder refer to the forward direction 300 of the towing vehicle 12, which forward direction goes to the left in FIG. 2.

[0115] The baler 10 is connected, and/or in particular coupled, to the towing vehicle 12. The towing vehicle 12 is connected to the baler 10 by means of or using the drawbar 14. For example, the baler 10 can be coupled to a hitch 15 of the towing vehicle 12 using the drawbar 14. The towing vehicle 12 can pull the baler 10.

[0116] The control unit 104 is configured to receive or determine an energy consumption signal or a PTO consumption signal and to determine a total energy value with the energy consumption signal or the PTO consumption signal. The control unit 104 is also configured to compare the total energy value with a baler consumption value and to set and/or adjust a speed of the combination, in particular the drive train 80, with or based on a driving signal if the total energy value is different from the baler consumption value. Alternatively, however, the baler control unit 24 and the towing vehicle control unit 102 can also take over this function. The towing vehicle control unit 102 may thus be configured to determine the energy consumption signal or the PTO consumption signal, and the baler control unit 24 may be configured to receive the energy consumption signal or the PTO consumption signal from the towing vehicle control unit 102.

[0117] The towing vehicle control unit 102 may thus be configured to determine the energy consumption signal or the PTO consumption signal, and the baler control unit 24 may be configured to receive the energy consumption signal or the PTO consumption signal from the towing vehicle control unit 102. The baler control unit 24 may also be configured to compare the total energy value with a baler consumption value, and to send the driving signal to the towing vehicle control unit 102 if the total energy value is different from the baler consumption value. The towing vehicle control unit 102 may be configured to set and/or adjust a speed of the combination, in particular the drive train 80, with or based on the driving signal if the total energy value is different from the baler consumption value. The baler consumption value can be equal to the sum of the first and second energy values. The control unit 104 or the towing vehicle control unit 102 may be configured to reduce an energy and/or a torque and/or a force and/or a rotational speed of the drive train 80, thus reducing the baler consumption value, in particular if the total energy value is less than or equal to the baler consumption value. The control unit 104 or the towing vehicle control unit 102 may be configured to reduce or to increase an energy and/or a torque and/or a force and/or a rotational speed of the drive train 80, thus reducing or increasing the baler consumption value, in particular if the total energy value is greater than the baler consumption value. In addition, the control unit 104 may be configured to set and/or adjust a speed of combination 1 with a driving signal if the total energy value is different from the baler consumption value. Alternatively, the baler control unit 24 may be configured to compare the total energy value with a baler consumption value, and to send the driving signal to the towing vehicle control unit 102 if the total energy value is different from the baler consumption value. The towing vehicle control unit 102 or the control unit 104 may be configured to set and/or adjust the combination 1, preferably the towing vehicle 12, particularly preferably the drive train 80, for example the motor 82 or the transmission or the transmission unit 84, with or based on the driving signal if the total energy value is different from the baler consumption value.

[0118] The control unit 104 or the towing vehicle control unit 102 may be configured to reduce an energy and/or a torque and/or a force and/or a rotational speed of the drive train 80, in particular the motor 82 or the transmission or the transmission unit 84, thus reducing the baler consumption value, in particular if the total energy value is less than or equal to the baler consumption value. The control unit 104 or the towing vehicle control unit 102 may be configured to increase an energy and/or a torque and/or a force and/or a rotational speed of the drive train 80, in particular the motor 82 or the transmission or the transmission unit 84, thus increasing the baler consumption value, in particular if the total energy value is greater than the baler consumption value. In addition, the control unit 104 may be configured to compare the total energy value with the baler consumption value and to set and/or adjust a density of the bale with an actuating signal if the total energy value is different from the baler consumption value. Alternatively, the baler control unit 24 may be configured to compare the total energy value with a baler consumption value, and to set and/or adjust a density of the bale with the actuating signal if the total energy value is different from the baler consumption value.

[0119] The towing vehicle control unit 102 or the control unit 104 may be configured to set and/or adjust the baler 10, preferably a first actuator 58, with or based on the actuating signal if the total energy value is different from the baler consumption value. The control unit 104 or the towing vehicle control unit 102 may be configured to reduce a torque and/or a force of the first actuator 58 on the bale with the actuating signal, thus reducing the pressure or bale forming pressure, and thus, in particular, the baler consumption value, preferably the first energy value, in particular if the total energy value is less than or equal to the baler consumption value. The control unit 104 or the towing vehicle control unit 102 may be configured to increase a torque and/or a force of the first actuator 58 on the bale with the actuating signal, thus increasing the pressure or the bale forming pressure, and thus, in particular, the baler consumption value, preferably the first energy value, in particular if the total energy value is greater than the baler consumption value.

[0120] The towing vehicle 12 comprises the PTO unit 112. The PTO unit 112 may comprise in particular a PTO transmission 118 and/or a PTO 116. The PTO unit 112 can be driven with the drive train 80, in particular the motor 82 and/or the transmission unit 84. The PTO unit 112 is mechanically connected to the baler 10 to drive the baling unit 22 and the pick-up unit 20. The towing vehicle 12 comprises the PTO sensor 114 for capturing, in particular for directly or indirectly capturing, the PTO consumption signal. The PTO sensor 114 may be connected to the towing vehicle control unit 102 or the control unit 104, preferably connected for signalling and/or operatively coupled and/or connected for transmitting signals and/or conducting data. The PTO sensor 114 can determine an energy and/or a torque and/or a speed at or in the PTO unit 112, in particular at or in a PTO transmission 118 and/or the PTO 116, in particular in the form of a PTO consumption signal.

[0121] The control unit 104 or the towing vehicle control unit 102 may be configured to control an input and output unit 100 with or based on the driving signal, with the result that the input and output unit 100 signals to the operator to change a speed of the towing vehicle 12, or the input and output unit 100 is configured to signal to the operator to change a speed of the towing vehicle 12. Likewise, the towing vehicle control unit 102 or the control unit 104 may be configured to emit or send an operator signal to the input and output unit 100 of the towing vehicle 12 with or based on the driving signal, and the input and output unit may be configured to signal to the operator to change a speed of the towing vehicle 12. In particular, the baler control unit 24 or the control unit 104 may be configured to set an output size of the fully formed bale, wherein the output size defines when the fully formed bale is output.

[0122] The control unit 104, or alternatively the baler control unit 24 and the towing vehicle control unit 102, may be configured to set and/or adjust a speed of the combination 1 with or based on the driving signal and/or to set and/or adjust a density of the bale with or based on the actuating signal, without changing the output size, if the total energy value is different from the baler consumption value. The output size may be a volume and/or diameter and/or a radius and/or a mass of the bale and/or a tension of the baling means and/or a distribution of the crop, in particular a lateral distribution of the crop, in the swath. Likewise, the baler control unit 24 or the control unit 104 may be configured to set and/or adjust, in particular maintain, a density of the bale with the actuating signal if the first energy value is different from a presently required energy value of the baling unit 22.

[0123] The combination 1, in particular the baler 10, may comprise a first sensor 52 for capturing the first energy value of the baling unit 22 and the second energy value of the pick-up unit 20. The control unit 104 or the baler control unit 24 can be connected to the first sensor 52, preferably connected for signalling and/or operatively coupled and/or connected for transmitting signals and/or conducting data. Furthermore, the control unit 104 or the baler control unit 24 may be configured to determine the sum of the first and second energy values using the signal from the first sensor 52. Alternatively or additionally, the combination 1, in particular the baler 10, may comprise the first sensor 52 for capturing the first energy value of the baling unit 22 and a second sensor 54 for capturing the second energy value of the pick-up unit 20. In this case, the control unit may be connected to the first and second sensors 52, 54, preferably connected for signalling and/or operatively coupled and/or connected for transmitting signals and/or conducting data. In this case, the control unit 104 or the baler control unit 24 may be configured to determine the first and second energy values and the sum of the first and second energy values using the signals from the first and second sensors 52, 54. The baler 10 may also comprise a drive unit 56 which is mechanically connected to the baling unit 22 and the pick-up unit 20 and can be used to drive the baling unit 22 and pick-up unit 20.

[0124] The baler 10 may comprise one or more bale sensors 46, in order to capture the output size, in particular on or in the baling unit 22, or with which the output size is captured. The control unit 24 or the baler control unit 24 can be connected to the bale sensor 46, preferably connected for signalling and/or operatively coupled and/or connected for transmitting signals and/or conducting data. The control unit 24 or the baler control unit 24 can be connected to the bale sensor 46, for example by means of a cable, in particular by way of a releasable plug, or via a radio connection. The bale sensor 46 can be arranged on or in the baling unit 22, in particular fastened in the latter. The output size captured by the bale sensor 46 can be displayed, for example, to an operator on an input and output unit 100.

[0125] The combination 1, preferably the baler 10, particularly preferably the baling unit 22, comprises the first actuator 58 for setting and/or adjusting the baling unit 22. The first actuator 58 may be designed to set and/or adjust the baling unit 22, preferably the baling means, particularly preferably the pressure or the bale forming pressure of the baling means. The first actuator may be connected to the control unit 104 or the baler control unit 24, in particular connected for signalling and/or operatively coupled and/or connected for transmitting signals and/or conducting data. The baler 10, in particular the baling unit 22, comprises a first valve or a first valve arrangement 60, in particular a first control valve, for controlling and/or setting and/or adjusting the first actuator. The first valve or the first valve arrangement 60 may be connected to the control unit 104 or the baler control unit 24, in particular connected for signalling and/or operatively coupled and/or connected for transmitting signals and/or conducting data. The control unit 104 or the baler control unit 24 may be configured to set and/or adjust the baling unit 22, preferably the density of the bale, particularly preferably the pressure or bale forming pressure of the baling means, on the basis of the actuating signal, in particular if the total energy value is different from the baler consumption value. The first actuator 58 is in the form of a hydraulic cylinder.

[0126] The control unit 24 or the baler control unit 24 can be connected to a second actuator 62, in particular a hydraulic cylinder, preferably connected for signalling and/or operatively coupled and/or connected for transmitting signals and/or conducting data. The control unit 24 can be connected to the second actuator 62, in particular via a valve or a second valve arrangement 64. The ejection unit 38 can be moved by means of the second actuator 62 between the first position, in which the baling unit 22 is closed, and the second position, in which the baling unit 22 is open for the purpose of unloading the bale. The second actuator 62 in the form of a hydraulic cylinder is connected, in particular pivotably connected or fastened, at one end to the baler 10, for example to the baler frame 26 or the housing, and at a second end to the ejection unit 38. However, the ejection unit 38 can also be pivotably articulated, i.e. pivotably fastened to a pivot point. The second actuator 62 can be connected to the ejection unit 38 in such a manner that it can pivot the ejection unit 38 upward about the axis 40 (counterclockwise in FIG. 1), thus enabling the bale 200 to be ejected from the baling unit 22. The ejection unit 38 can thus be opened or closed or raised and lowered by the second actuator 62. The second actuator 62 can be set and/or adjusted and/or controlled by means of the control unit 104 or the baler control unit 24 using or via the valve arrangement 64, for example via an electromagnetic or hydraulic valve arrangement. In this case, the valve arrangement 64 can be set and/or adjusted and/or controlled by means of the control unit 104 or the baler control unit 24. An ejection flap sensor 66 can capture, for example, the position of the second actuator 62 or of the ejection unit 38. The ejection unit 38, in particular the second actuator 62, can be operated, in particular set and/or adjusted and/or controlled, by means of the baler control unit 24 in such a way that the ejection unit 38, in particular the second actuator 62, is moved between a first position (baler closed) and a second position (baler open).

[0127] The pick-up unit 20 can be raised and lowered, for example, by means of a third actuator 68, here in the form of a hydraulic cylinder. The third actuator 68 can be set and/or adjusted and/or controlled by means of the control unit 104 or the baler control unit 24, for example via a third valve arrangement or a third valve (not illustrated). The third valve arrangement can be, for example, a hydraulic or electromagnetic valve arrangement. The third valve arrangement can be set and/or adjusted and/or controlled by means of the control unit 104 or the baler control unit 24.

[0128] The combination 1, preferably the towing vehicle 12, can comprise a capture device 120, here designed as a camera. The capture device 120 can be mounted on the front side of the towing vehicle 12, as shown. The capture device 120 is directed at the swath 36. The capture device 120, or the camera, delivers a capture signal or a video signal to the towing vehicle control unit 102 or the control unit 104 or an image processing system (not shown). The capture signal or video signal can be processed in the image processing system. The image processing system can be designed in particular as part of the towing vehicle control unit 102 or the control unit 104, so as to provide electronic information about the position of the towing vehicle 12 with respect to the swath 36. The image processing system can also determine a target line of the swath, in particular a longitudinal center axis of the swath.

[0129] Likewise, the image processing system can send a steering signal to a steering controller of the combination 1 and/or the towing vehicle control unit 102 or the control unit 104, and/or the towing vehicle control unit 102 or the control unit 104 can receive the steering signal. However, the steering signal can also be produced or generated by the towing vehicle control unit 102 or the control unit 104 with or on the basis of the capture signal or the target line of the swath. The towing vehicle control unit 102 or the control unit 104 may comprise a steering controller or the steering controller may be designed as part of the towing vehicle control unit 102 or the control unit 104, that is to say may be integrated in the towing vehicle control unit 102 or the control unit 104. As a result, the towing vehicle control unit 102 or the control unit 104 can steer the combination 1 along the swath 36, in particular the target line of the swath or the longitudinal center axis of the swath.

[0130] The combination 1, in particular the towing vehicle 12, can also comprise a GPS device 32 for determining the position of the combination 1 in the form of a position signal. The towing vehicle control unit 102 or the control unit 104 is connected to the GPS device 130. The towing vehicle control unit 102 or the control unit 104 receives the position signal from the GPS device 130. Position data can thus be sent and/or received, and/or in particular calculated, by means of the GPS device 130 or the towing vehicle control unit 102 or the control unit 104. For example, the GPS device 32 can comprise a GPS antenna, which receives position data, and a memory. The position of the swath 36, which is known from previous operations, may be stored in the memory of the GPS device 130 or the towing vehicle control unit 102 or the control unit 104. The combination 1, in particular the towing vehicle 12, can then be steered such that the position of the combination 1 or of the towing vehicle 12, as provided by the GPS device 130, and the position of the swath 36 from the memory match. Steering data could also be determined and/or ascertained and/or calculated by the towing vehicle control unit 102 or the control unit 104 and/or by the steering controller. An advantage of the present disclosure is that an overload or underload of the baler 10 or the combination 1 can be avoided.

[0131] FIG. 3 shows a schematic illustration of a first exemplary embodiment of a drive unit 56 of the baler 10 according to the disclosure. The balers 10 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 may then comprise the drive unit 56 shown in FIG. 3.

[0132] The baler 10 comprises a drive unit 56 which is mechanically connected to the baling unit 22 and the pick-up unit 20 and can be used to drive the baling unit 22 and the pick-up unit 20. The drive unit 56 comprises the input shaft 70 and an optional overload clutch 140 and an output shaft 144, wherein the baling unit 22 and the pick-up unit 20 can be driven by or using the drive unit 56 with the output shaft 144. The drive unit 56 can be driven by or using the PTO unit 112. In particular, the input shaft 70 may be mechanically connected to the PTO 116 and/or can be driven by or using the PTO 116. The optional overload clutch 140 may be arranged on or in the input shaft 70, or the input shaft 70 may comprise the overload clutch. In addition, the drive unit 56 comprises an optional transmission device 142. The transmission device 142 is mechanically connected to the input shaft 70 and/or can be driven via or with the input shaft 70. The transmission device is mechanically connected to the output shaft 144.

[0133] The combination, in particular the baler 10, may comprise a first sensor 52 for capturing the first energy value of the baling unit 22 and for capturing the second energy value of the pick-up unit 20. The control unit 104 or the baler control unit 24 is connected to the first sensor 52, preferably connected for signalling and/or operatively coupled and/or connected for transmitting signals and/or conducting data. The control unit 104 or the baler control unit 24 is configured to determine the sum of the first and second energy values, in particular on the output shaft 144 or the transmission unit of the drive unit, using the signal from the first sensor 52.

[0134] FIG. 4 shows a schematic illustration of a further exemplary embodiment of a drive unit 56 of the baler 10 according to the disclosure. The balers 10 shown in FIGS. 1 to 2 may comprise the drive unit 56 shown in FIG. 4. The drive unit 56 shown in FIG. 4 corresponds substantially to the drive unit 56 shown in FIG. 3, and therefore only details and/or differences are discussed below.

[0135] The drive unit 56 comprises the input shaft 70 and the optional overload clutch 140 and a first and a second drive shaft 150, 152. In this case, the baling unit 22 can be driven by or using the drive unit with the first drive shaft 150, in particular with a first energy value. The pick-up unit 20 can be driven by or using the drive unit 56 with the second drive shaft 152, in particular with the second energy value. The transmission device 142 can be mechanically connected to the first and/or second drive shaft 150, 152. The first and/or second drive shaft 150, 152 may be driven via or with the transmission device 142. The baler 10 comprises a first sensor 52 for capturing the first energy value of the baling unit 22 and a second sensor 54 for capturing the second energy value of the pick-up unit 20. The control unit 104 or the baler control unit 24 is connected to the first and second sensors 52, 54, preferably connected for signalling and/or operatively coupled and/or connected for transmitting signals and/or conducting data.

[0136] The control unit 104 or the baler control unit 24 is configured to determine the first and second energy values and the sum of the first and second energy values using or with the signals from the first and second sensors 52, 54. The first energy value can therefore be determined with the first sensor 52 on the first drive shaft 150 of the drive unit 56 and the second energy value can be determined with the second sensor 54 on a second drive shaft 152 of the drive unit 56.

[0137] FIG. 5 shows a schematic flowchart of the method according to the disclosure for operating the baler 10 according to the disclosure or the combination 1 according to the disclosure. The operating mode shown in FIG. 5 can be carried out with the balers 10 and/or combinations 1 shown in FIGS. 1 to 4.

[0138] The start in step 400 is followed by step 402 in which the towing vehicle control unit 102 or the control unit 104 determines an energy consumption signal or a PTO consumption signal. The towing vehicle control unit 102 can transmit, in particular send, the energy consumption signal or the PTO consumption signal to the baler control unit 24, and the energy consumption signal or the PTO consumption signal can be received by the baler control unit 24. In the following step 404, the baler control unit 24 or the control unit 104 uses the received signal to determine a total energy value and compares the total energy value with a baler consumption value.

[0139] In step 406, the drive train 80 is set and/or adjusted with or based on the driving signal if the total energy value is different from the baler consumption value. Alternatively, the baler control unit 24 can send the driving signal and the towing vehicle control unit 102 receives the driving signal. The towing vehicle control unit 102 can set and/or adjust the drive train with or based on the driving signal.

[0140] In addition, according to the optional step 408, the towing vehicle control unit 102 or the control unit 104 can set and/or adjust a density of the bale with or based on the actuating signal.

[0141] As a result, an overload or underload of the baler 10 or the combination 1 can be advantageously avoided and the operation of the baler 10 or combination 1 can be optimized.

[0142] The detailed description and the drawings or figures are supportive and descriptive of the disclosure, but the scope of the disclosure is defined solely by the claims. While some of the best modes and other embodiments for carrying out the claimed teachings have been described in detail, various alternative designs and embodiments exist for practicing the disclosure defined in the appended claims.