Patent ID: 8586118
Filing Date: 2013-11-19
Classification: A01D,A23N

Abstract:
1. A method for removing a stem containing portion of relatively symmetrical produce items, comprising the steps of: (1) loading moving tubular receivers with a produce item which drops to a bottom of the receivers and is supported unconstrained and propped in longitudinal orientation relative to the receiver in which a portion of the produce item is exposed and supported by at least one support surface residing inferiorly to the receivers, (2) propelling the moving receivers cyclically along a path, (3) placing at least one cutting means below the receivers, (4) cycling the moving receivers which alternate between an upright and inverted position, (5) preventing the produce item from falling completely free of the receiver by means of a curved support surface, (6) guiding a portion of the produce item which is exposed by gravity; and, (7) directing the exposed portion of the produce item into the path of a cutter.