James R Lucas

Title: Innovations by James R. Lucas

Introduction

James R. Lucas is a notable inventor based in Moline, IL, who has made significant contributions to agricultural technology. He holds 2 patents that showcase his innovative approach to enhancing crop harvesting efficiency.

Latest Patents

One of his latest patents is for adjustable transport vanes for axial flow combines. This invention involves an axial flow combine equipped with a crop harvesting header that includes a feeder for cutting crops and feeding them into a threshing and separating mechanism. The mechanism features a casing that receives the crop material and a rotor that threshes and separates grain from the crop. A series of crop material directing vanes are positioned within the casing, working in conjunction with the rotor to guide the material helically along the casing. The design includes means for selectively and simultaneously adjusting the position of the vanes, allowing for changes in the rate of movement of the crop material through the casing.

Another significant patent by Lucas is the floating cutterbar header and height control. This invention pertains to a crop harvesting header for a self-propelled combine. The header features a 'floating' flexible cutterbar that can move vertically relative to the header frame, enabling it to cut standing crops, such as soybeans, close to the ground to minimize losses. The cutterbar is connected to several runner structures that are pivotally mounted on the header frame. A spring system operates on the runner structures to counterbalance the cutterbar. Elongated skids connect adjacent pairs of runners, allowing for individual movement as the cutterbar flexes over uneven ground. The skids can be adjusted to vary the cutting height of the cutterbar.

Career Highlights

James R. Lucas has been associated with the International Harvester Company, where he has contributed to advancements in agricultural machinery. His work has focused on improving the efficiency and effectiveness of crop harvesting equipment.

Collaborations

Lucas has collaborated with notable coworkers, including Neil C. Dunn and Dathan R. Kerber, who have also contributed to innovations in the field of agricultural technology.

Conclusion

James R. Lucas is a distinguished inventor whose patents reflect his commitment to enhancing agricultural practices. His innovative designs for crop harvesting equipment demonstrate the importance of technology in improving efficiency in farming.