PROGRAMMABLE FUNCTION CONTROL FOR COMBINE

A function management system includes a programmable control unit that can automatically coordinate combine traction functions and/or implement functions. In a learn mode, the operator performs a sequence of manual manipulations of the operator controlled traction and implement devices, and the control unit records and then stores information pertaining to the sequence of device operations. In an execute mode, the control unit automatically perfor ms the sequence of device operations so that the sequence of operations occurs at the same intervals at which they were learned. As one example of a sequence, when the combine approaches the end of a field, at the touch of one button, the header is raised, the unloading auger is pivoted to an inboard position for safe turning, the ground speed is increased for rapid travel, the four wheel driv e used during harvesting in the field is disengaged, the crop-processing implement speed, such as a rotor speed for a rotary crop-processing unit, is decreased , and steering of the combine is controlled to position the combine to the point o f reentering the field. The sequence of device operations can be pre-programme d or input by the operator in the learn mode.