Patent ID: 6263652
Filing Date: 2001-07-24
Classification: A01D

Abstract:
A harvesting machine to provide for a mechanically harvesting of fruit from a fruit tree, the harvesting machine comprising:a) a machine frame having a front portion and a center axis;b) a plurality of arm members positioned on the harvesting machine to extend outward relative to the center axis of the machine frame;c) continuous movement means to provide for a continuously advance of the machine frame during a harvesting procedure;d) transfer means to provide for a repetitive performance of a series of movements during a harvesting procedure, the series of movements comprising:i) a rearward movement of the arm members away from the front portion of the machine frame, the rearward movement having a first portion and a second portion;ii) an extension movement of the arm members outward relative to the center axis of the machine frame, the extension movement occurring during the first portion of the rearward movement of the arm members relative to the center axis of the machine frame, the arm members remaining generally perpendicular to the center axis of the machine frame during the extension movement;iii) a retraction movement of the arm members inward relative to the center axis of the machine frame, the retraction movement occurring during the second portion of the rearward movement of the arm members relative to the center axis of the machine frame, the arm members remaining generally perpendicular to the center axis of the machine frame during the retraction movement;iv) a forward movement of the arm members toward the front portion of the machine frame;e) a picking member attached relative to each arm member, each picking member attached to a respective arm member to provide for an engagement of fruit to produce a picking pressure to sever the fruit from the fruit tree during the retraction movement of the respective arm member.