Closed Loop Electro-Hydraulic Control for Combine Header Floatation and Height

Proportional raise and lower poppet valves used in conjunction with a microcontroller can provide closed loop control of hydraulic cylinder pressure or position. Closed loop control of headers on agricultural harvesters enables more sophisticated functionality than present techniques. Floatation (regulating the header's applied ground force) and stubble height (regulating the header's height) are two strategies which can increase crop yield. These allow for more precise tracking of ground contour variations with the header contacting or following above the ground. Machine productivity is increased by consistent and repeatable operation, reduction of operator interaction and automation of header raise and repositioning at the start of each row.