Patent attributes
A harvesting platform includes a first section and extends along a first section plane that is substantially parallel to a ground surface along which the harvesting platform moves with a combine. A second section is connected to the first side of the first section, and rotates with respect to the first section within a range of angular positions. A locking mechanism retains the second section in a position with respect to the first section while activated, and permits movement of the second section with respect to the first section while deactivated. A controller receives a first signal indicative of the position, and sends a second signal to deactivate the locking mechanism in response to the position being at a positive non-parallel angle with respect to the first section plane. The second section moves toward the first section plane in response to gravity while the locking mechanism is deactivated.