Multi-segment header for an agricultural harvester
A multi-segment header for an agricultural harvester including a multi-segment chassis and a backsheet supported by each of the multi-segment chassis. The multi-segment header further includes a backsheet extension assembly that has a backsheet extension mounted adjacent a top end of each backsheet, and an articulating joint extending between adjacent backsheet extensions. The articulated backsheet extension assembly follows upward and downward movement of the backsheets of the multi-segment chassis and blocks grain from passing over the backsheets and going unharvested.
1. A multi-segment header for an agricultural harvester comprising:
a multi-segment chassis;
a backsheet supported by each segment of the multi-segment chassis; and
a backsheet extension assembly that includes:
a backsheet extension mounted adjacent a top end of each backsheet, and
a polymeric articulating joint having at least four degrees of freedom and extending between adjacent backsheet extensions.
2. The multi-segment header of claim 1 , wherein the articulating joint spans an entire height of the adjacent backsheet extensions.
3. The multi-segment header of claim 1 , wherein the polymeric articulating joint comprises an elastomer.
4. The multi-segment header of claim 1 , wherein the polymeric articulating joint comprises a first slotted end for receiving one of the segmented backsheet extensions, and a second slotted end opposite the first slotted end for receiving an adjacent segmented backsheet extension.
5. The multi-segment header of claim 4 , wherein the polymeric articulating joint further comprises a through hole, and a fastener that fastens the articulating joint to the backsheet extension.
6. The multi-segment header of claim 5 , wherein the backsheet extension includes a through hole for receiving the fastener therein.
7. The multi-segment header of claim 1 , wherein each backsheet extension is directly mounted to the top end of each backsheet.
8. The multi-segment header of claim 1 , further comprising a mounting bracket mounting each backsheet extension to the chassis.
9. The multi-segment header of claim 1 , wherein each backsheet extension is plate-shaped.
10. The multi-segment header of claim 1 , wherein each backsheet extension slopes forwardly relative to the chassis.
11. The multi-segment header of claim 1 , wherein each backsheet extension extends substantially in end to end relation with each segment of the multi-segment chassis.
12. The multi-segment header of claim 1 , wherein each backsheet extension has an overall height of about 5 to 15 inches.
13. The multi-segment header of claim 1 , wherein at least one backsheet extension includes an access panel.
14. The multi-segment header of claim 1 , wherein the header includes a chassis hook opening or a reel axis accessible via an access panel in at least one of the backsheet extensions.
15. The multi-segment header of claim 1 , wherein the polymeric articulating joint consists essentially of an elastomer.
16. The multi-segment header of claim 1 , wherein the polymeric articulating joint is a substantially planar joint.
17. The multi-segment header of claim 1 , wherein the polymeric articulating joint is a substantially cuboid joint.