Benny R. Isbell - Humnoke AR Joel T. Hicks - Little Rock AR
International Classification:
F26B 302
US Classification:
34 30
Abstract:
A method and apparatus for drying stored grain based upon phenomena related to wet bulb temperature, depression, relative moisture, and relative humidity. The invention contemplates a conventional grain storage bin in which a suitable storage volume is defined beneath a lower, preferably perforated floor. A lower air plenum defined beneath the floor receives air which is circulated through the bin to dry the stored grain. When activated a relatively low capacity gas heater heats the circulating air which is forced by a conventional fan through an interconnecting vent interiorly of the bin plenum. Fuel for combustion preferably is limited by a modulating valve controlled by a temperature-sensing probe disposed within the plenum. Operation is initiated by a humidistat disposed exteriorly of the plenum, which initiates heating in response to ascertainment of a control reference humidity. For drying purposes the temperature of ambient air is raised by no more than the control depression.
There is disclosed an improved reaper assembly for a rice combine having two cutter bars with triangular blades, one of which is stationary, and the other of which is reciprocated by a driver arm. All of the triangular cutting blades have sharp serrated edges and the blades of one bar are of a different dimension than the blades of the other bar, the blades preferably having a width ratio of three to two; the blades are secured to the bars with rivets or similar fasteners so that broken or damaged blades may be conveniently replaced; the stationary cutter bar is provided with holes matching the usual holes on the combine cutter mounting bar so that it may be attached with bolts to replace standard guards and ledger plates; the original bolts also may be employed to secure holddown clips which hold the reciprocating cutter bar against the stationary cutter bar while allowing the reciprocating cutter bar to slide freely.