Patent Publication Number: US-10306911-B2

Title: System and method of processing produce

Description:
CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims priority as a continuation under 35 U.S.C. § 120 to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/591,558 filed on Jan. 7, 2015 and titled “SYSTEM AND METHOD OF PROCESSING PRODUCE,” now U.S. Pat. No. 9,265,280, which claims priority as a continuation under 35 U.S.C. § 120 to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/558,287 filed on Dec. 2, 2014 and titled “SYSTEM AND METHOD OF PROCESSING PRODUCE,” now U.S. Pat. No. 9,185,930, which claims priority as a continuation-in-part under 35 U.S.C. § 120 to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/153,577 filed on Jan. 13, 2014 and titled “SYSTEM AND METHOD OF PROCESSING PRODUCE,” now U.S. Pat. No. 9,173,432, which claims priority as a continuation-in-part under 35 U.S.C. § 120 to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/758,276 filed on Feb. 4, 2013 and titled “SYSTEM AND METHOD OF DE-STEMMING PRODUCE,” now U.S. Pat. No. 9,173,431, each of which is herein incorporated by reference in their entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     Agricultural products can be harvested manually or with the aid of harvesting machines. When agricultural products are harvested from a field, the agricultural products can be processed and distributed to consumers for consumption. 
     SUMMARY 
     At least one aspect is directed to an apparatus for processing produce. The apparatus can include a receiving unit. The receiving unit can receive an item of produce and can convey the item of produce. The apparatus can include a supplemental conveyor unit having a first channel wall and a second channel wall defining a channel between an end portion of the receiving unit and a top surface of a first conveyor unit. The channel can receive the item of produce from the receiving unit and can deposit at least part of the item of produce on the top surface of the first conveyor unit. The apparatus can include the first conveyor unit configured to convey the item of produce toward at least one additional conveyor unit. The apparatus can include the first conveyor unit and the at least one additional conveyor unit configured to apply at least part of a separation force to the item of produce to separate a first portion of the item of produce from a second portion of the item of produce. 
     At least one aspect is directed to a system of processing produce. The system can include a receiving unit that receives an item of produce and conveys the item of produce. The system can include a supplemental conveyor unit having a first channel wall and a second channel wall defining a channel between an end portion of the receiving unit and a top surface of a first conveyor unit. The channel can receive the item of produce from the receiving unit and can deposit at least part of the item of produce on the top surface of the first conveyor unit. The first conveyor unit can convey the item of produce toward at least one additional conveyor unit. The first conveyor unit and the at least one additional conveyor unit apply at least part of a separation force to the item of produce to separate a first portion of the item of produce from a second portion of the item of produce. 
     At least one aspect is directed to a method of processing produce. The method can include receiving an item of produce by a receiving unit, and conveying the item of produce in a first direction on a top surface of the receiving unit. The method can include receiving the item of produce in a channel defined by a first channel wall of a supplemental conveyor unit and a second channel wall of the supplemental conveyor unit. The method can include depositing, via the channel, the item of produce into a first conveyor unit that conveys the item of produce in a second direction to separate a first portion of the item of produce from a second portion of the item of produce by generating a separation force between the first portion of the item of produce and the second portion of the item of produce. 
     At least one aspect is directed to an apparatus for processing produce having a first portion and a second portion. The apparatus can include a sizing unit having a first roller and a second roller. The sizing unit can convey the produce in a first direction, and can release the produce vertically along a longitudinal axis of the produce between the first roller and the second roller during conveyance of the produce in the first direction. The apparatus can include a receiving unit having a produce receptacle. The receiving unit can receive the produce, in the produce receptacle, from the sizing unit and can convey the produce in the produce receptacle in a second direction. The second direction can be perpendicular (e.g., +/−10 degrees) to the first direction. The produce receptacle can have a cavity configured to receive the produce subsequent to release from the sizing unit with the first portion of the produce at least partially disposed in the cavity and with the second portion of the produce at least partially protruding from the cavity. The apparatus can include a first conveyor unit that can receive the first portion of the produce from the produce receptacle, and that can convey the produce in a third direction to separate the first portion of the produce from the second portion of the produce. 
     At least one aspect is directed to a system of processing produce. The system can include a sizing unit that can release the produce vertically along a longitudinal axis of the produce during conveyance of the produce in a first direction. The system can include a receiving unit having a first row of a first plurality of produce receptacles and a second row of a second plurality of produce receptacles in parallel with the first row. Each of the first row and the second row can be aligned along at least one of a lateral axis of the receiving unit and a longitudinal axis of the sizing unit. The receiving unit can convey the produce in a second direction. Each of the first plurality of produce receptacles and the second plurality of produce receptacles can receive a single item of produce. The system can include at least one conveyor unit that can receive the produce from the receiving unit and to convey the produce in a third direction. 
     At least one aspect is directed to a method of processing produce. The method can convey an item of produce in a first direction, and can release the item of produce in a vertical position during conveyance of the item of produce in the first direction. The method can receive the item of produce in a produce receptacle of a receiving unit during conveyance of the produce receptacle in a second direction with the produce receptacle oriented in a first position. The method can tip the produce receptacle from the first position to a second position to expel the item of produce from the produce receptacle onto at least one conveyor unit. The method can align the item of produce for engagement with at least one additional conveyor unit. The method can generate a separation force on the item of produce using the at least one conveyor unit and the at least one additional conveyor unit to at least partially separate a first portion of the item of produce from a second portion of the item of produce. 
     At least one aspect is directed to a de-stemming apparatus for de-stemming produce. The produce can have a pod, a stem, and a calyx. The de-stemming apparatus can include a first conveyor unit having a top surface that can convey the pod, and a second conveyor unit having a first portion proximate to the first conveyor unit and can have a second portion disposed at an angle of greater than zero and less than 60 degrees relative to the first conveyor unit. The de-stemming apparatus can include a third conveyor unit that can engage the pod between the top surface of the first conveyor unit and a bottom surface of the third conveyor unit. The de-stemming apparatus can include a fourth conveyor unit that can engage the stem between a top surface of the second conveyor unit and a bottom surface of the fourth conveyor unit. The de-stemming apparatus can include at least one driving unit that can drive at least one of the first conveyor unit, the second conveyor unit, the third conveyor unit, and the fourth conveyor unit to convey the produce from a first point of the de-stemming apparatus to a second point of the de-stemming apparatus. The at least one driving unit can generate a separation force between the pod and the stem that separates at least a portion of the stem and at least a portion of the calyx from the pod during conveyance of the produce between the first point and the second point. 
     At least one aspect is directed to an apparatus for processing an item of produce having a first portion and a second portion attached to the first portion. The apparatus can include at least one first conveyor unit that can convey the first portion of the item of produce in a first linear direction. The apparatus can include at least one second conveyor unit that can convey the second portion of the item of produce in a second linear direction that differs from the first linear direction by between 0.5 and 30 degrees to generate a separation force between the first portion of the item of produce and the second portion of the item of produce that separates the first portion from the second portion. 
     At least one aspect is directed to an apparatus for processing produce. The apparatus can include means for conveying produce having a pod and a stem from a first point to a second point at a constant speed with the pod fixed in a first trajectory and the stem fixed in a second trajectory that deviates from the first trajectory by an angle greater than zero and less than 45 degrees to generate a separation force between the pod and the stem that separates at least a portion of the stem from the pod during conveyance from the first point through the second point. 
     At least one aspect is directed to a method of processing produce. The method can convey an item of produce having a pod and a stem through a de-stemming apparatus at a constant speed from a first point to a second point with the pod fixed in a first trajectory and the stem fixed in a second trajectory that deviates from the first trajectory by an angle greater than zero and less than 45 degrees. The method can generate a separation force between the stem and the pod that separates at least a portion of the stem from the pod between the first point and the second point. 
     These and other aspects and implementations are discussed in detail below. The foregoing information and the following detailed description include illustrative examples of various aspects and implementations, and provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and character of the claimed aspects and implementations. The drawings provide illustration and a further understanding of the various aspects and implementations, and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The accompanying drawings are not intended to be drawn to scale. Like reference numbers and designations in the various drawings indicate like elements. For purposes of clarity, not every component may be labeled in every drawing. In the drawings: 
         FIG. 1  is an illustration depicting one example of an item of produce, according to an illustrative implementation; 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view depicting one example of a de-stemming apparatus, according to an illustrative implementation; 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view depicting one example of a de-stemming apparatus, according to an illustrative implementation; 
         FIG. 4  is a perspective view depicting one example of a de-stemming apparatus, according to an illustrative implementation; 
         FIG. 5  is a perspective view depicting one example of a de-stemming apparatus, according to an illustrative implementation; 
         FIG. 6  is a perspective view depicting one example of a de-stemming apparatus, according to an illustrative implementation; 
         FIG. 7  is a perspective view depicting one example of a de-stemming apparatus, according to an illustrative implementation; 
         FIG. 8  is an illustration depicting one example of an item of produce, according to an illustrative implementation; 
         FIG. 9  is a flow diagram illustrating a method of processing produce, according to an illustrative implementation; 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view depicting one example of an apparatus for processing produce, according to an illustrative implementation; 
         FIG. 11  is a perspective view depicting one example of an apparatus for processing produce, according to an illustrative implementation; 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective view depicting one example of an apparatus for processing produce, according to an illustrative implementation; 
         FIG. 13  is a perspective view depicting one example of an apparatus for processing produce, according to an illustrative implementation; 
         FIG. 14  is a flow diagram illustrating a method of processing produce, according to an illustrative implementation; 
         FIG. 15  is a perspective view depicting one example of an apparatus for processing produce, according to an illustrative implementation; 
         FIG. 16  is a perspective view depicting one example of an apparatus for processing produce, according to an illustrative implementation; 
         FIG. 17  is a perspective view depicting one example of an apparatus for processing produce, according to an illustrative implementation; 
         FIG. 18  is a perspective view depicting one example of an apparatus for processing produce, according to an illustrative implementation; 
         FIG. 19  is a perspective view depicting one example of an apparatus for processing produce, according to an illustrative implementation; 
         FIG. 20  is a perspective view depicting one example of an apparatus for processing produce, according to an illustrative implementation; and 
         FIG. 21  is a flow diagram illustrating a method of processing produce, according to an illustrative implementation. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Following below are more detailed descriptions of various concepts related to, and implementations of, methods, apparatuses, and systems for processing produce. The various concepts introduced above and discussed in greater detail below may be implemented in any of numerous ways, as the described concepts are not limited to any particular manner of implementation. Examples of specific implementations and applications are provided primarily for illustrative purposes. 
     Agricultural products, e.g., produce such as fruits or vegetables, can be harvested from farms. The produce can be harvested or picked by farmers manually, with the use of harvesting machines, or using combinations thereof. When the produce is harvested, the edible portion of the produce can be picked from a plant together with additional portions of the plant that are generally not eaten. For example, a pepper having a pod (generally eaten) and a stem (generally not eaten) can be removed from a pepper plant with at least a portion of the stem still attached to the pod. 
     A de-stemming apparatus can separate the stem and other portions of the produce that are generally not eaten from the body or pod of the produce that is generally eaten. For example, the de-stemming apparatus can include at least one conveyor unit. The produce can be placed on at least one conveyor unit to travel from a first point to a second point of the de-stemming apparatus. During this travel the pod of the produce can be held in a first fixed position and conveyed along a first trajectory, and the stem (or other portion of the produce) can be held in a second fixed position and conveyed along a second trajectory. Divergence between the first and second trajectories (e.g., by between zero and 90 degrees) with the pod held in the first position and the stem held in the second position can generate a separation force during conveyance between the first and second points of the de-stemming apparatus. The separation force can pull at least the stem of the produce apart from the pod of the produce and can remove at least a portion of the stem from the pod of the produce. 
       FIG. 1  illustrates an example of an item of produce  100 . As illustrated in the example of  FIG. 1 , the produce  100  is a pepper, although the produce  100  can be other agricultural products such as fruits, vegetables, tomatoes, lemons, citrus, olives, carrots, eggplant, cucumbers, zucchini, squash, melons, peas, beans, legumes, tubers, onions, radishes, beats, strawberries, bananas, corn, apples, pears, peaches, plums grapes, lettuce, celery, or mushrooms for example. The produce  100  can generally include a commercial crop or agricultural product harvested for human consumption. 
     The produce  100  can include a first portion  105  and a second portion  110 . The first portion  105  can include a body or pod  115  of the produce  100 , and the second portion  110  can include at least a portion of the stem  120  or the calyx  125  of the produce  100 , with the pod  115  generally being the edible portion of the produce  100 . The stem  120  and the calyx  125  (while perhaps being edible) are generally the portions of the produce  100  that are not eaten. For example, the stem  120  can include the portion of the produce  100  that at least partially supports the produce  100  e.g., during growth or when attached to a plant, and the calyx  125  can include sepals or other structure between the outer surface of the pod  115  and the stem  120 . The calyx  125  can include a cup shaped structure that attaches the stem  120  with the pod  115  or that covers at least a portion of the pod  115 . 
       FIG. 2  illustrates one example of a de-stemming apparatus  200 . The de-stemming apparatus  200  can separate the first portion  105  of the produce  100  from the second portion  110  of the produce  100 . For example, de-stemming apparatus  200  can process the produce  100  to separate at least part of the stem  120  or the calyx  125  from the pod  115 . 
     In some implementations, the de-stemming apparatus  200  includes at least one conveyor unit. For example, the de-stemming apparatus  200  can include at least one first conveyor unit  205 , at least one second conveyor unit  210 , at least one third conveyor unit  215 , and at least one fourth conveyor unit  220 , each of which can include at least one conveyor belt or cleated chain to accommodate the produce  100 . For example, the first to fourth conveyor units  205  to  220 , as well as other conveyor units such as those of the receiving unit  1010  as depicted, for example, in  FIG. 10  and  FIG. 15 , among others, can include conveyor belts having grooves, dimples, divots, recesses, smooth surfaces, cleated surfaces, chains, ridges, treads, protrusions, or frictional elements that contact the produce  100  to convey the produce  100  (e.g., from left to right in directions of motion  227  or  229  as depicted in  FIG. 2 ) from a first point within range  225  to a second point within range  230 . 
     In some implementations, at least one driving unit  235  is configured to drive the first to fourth conveyor units  205  to  220 . The driving units  235  can include at least one motor coupled to at least one shaft  240  connected to at least one of the first to fourth conveyor units  205  to  220 . The driving units  235  can rotate the shafts  240  to drive the respective conveyor belts around the first to fourth conveyor units  205  to  220 . 
     In one implementation, a first driving unit  235  and a first shaft  240  are coupled to the first conveyor unit  205  and the second conveyor unit  210  to drive the first conveyor unit  205  and the second conveyor unit  210 . For example, the driving unit  235  and the shaft  240  can drive the first and second conveyor units  205  and  210  at a constant (e.g., +/−10%) speed. In some implementations, a second driving unit  235  and a second shaft  240  are coupled to the third conveyor unit  215  and the fourth conveyor unit  220  to drive the third conveyor unit  215  and the fourth conveyor unit  220 , for example at a constant (e.g., +/−10%) speed. 
     In one implementation, at least one driving unit  235  operates the conveyor units (e.g., first to fourth conveyor units  205  to  220 ) at a same speed (e.g., within +/−10%). For example, the driving unit  235  can include an AC or DC motor to drive the first to fourth conveyor units  205  to  220  at a speed of between 0.1 and 10 feet per second. In some implementations, one driving unit  235  can drive one or more of conveyor units  205  to  220 , or the conveyor units  205  to  220  can have dedicated driving units  235  that may communicate with each other for speed control, or that can be independently operated. 
     The de-stemming apparatus  200  can convey the produce  100  such as a pepper along a length of the de-stemming apparatus  200 . In some implementations, the first conveyor unit  205  is disposed proximate to a first portion  250  of the second conveyor unit  210 . For example, the first conveyor unit  205  and the first portion  250  of the second conveyor unit  210  can be coplanar. In some implementations, a top surface  245  of the first conveyor unit  205  and a top surface  255  of the first portion  250  of the second conveyor unit  210  are disposed proximate to each other so that the top surface  245  and the top surface  255  are substantially level. The first conveyor unit  205  and the first portion  250  of the second conveyor unit  210  need not be coplanar. For example, in a generally horizontal configuration of the de-stemming apparatus, as in  FIG. 2 , the top surface  255  can ramp upwards, relative to the top surface  245  along the direction of motion  225 . For example, the top surface  255  can be substantially (e.g., +/−10%) 0.25 inches above the top surface  245  at the pivot point  270 , to support the stem  120  or the second portion  110  of the produce  100  as the produce  100  approaches or enters the pivot point  270 . 
     In one implementation, the produce  100  is disposed with at least a portion of the pod  115  (or first portion  105 ) contacting the top surface  245  of the first conveyor unit  205  and at least a portion of the stem  120  (or second portion  110 ) contacting or disposed above the top surface  255  of the second conveyor unit  210 . In this example, the produce  100  overlaps both the top surface  245  of the first conveyor unit  205  and the proximate top surface  255  of the first portion  250  of the second conveyor unit  210 . At least one driving unit  235  can drive the first conveyor unit  205  and the second conveyor unit  210  (e.g., at a same speed) to convey the produce  100  in the direction of motion  227  along the first conveyor unit  205  and the first portion  250  of the second conveyor unit  210 . In this example, the second portion  110  of the produce  100  (e.g., the stem  120  or the calyx  125 ) may or may not contact the second conveyor unit  210 . For example, the second portion of  110  of the produce  100  may be disposed above the top surface  255  without contacting the top surface  255 , with the pod  115  or first portion  105  resting on the top surface  245  of the first conveyor unit  205 . 
     A manual operator, produce feeder apparatus, or produce alignment apparatus (not shown in  FIG. 2 ) can provide the produce  100  for entry into the de-stemming apparatus  200 , e.g. onto the first conveyor unit  205  or the second conveyor unit  210 . For example, an alignment apparatus proximate to or coupled with the de-stemming apparatus  200  can include a conveyor belt system with image recognition features to align peppers or other produce for placement into the de-stemming apparatus  200  with the first portion  105  of the produce  100  disposed on the first conveyor unit  205  and with the second portion  110  of the produce  100  disposed beyond a longitudinal edge of the first conveyor unit  205 , (e.g., on or over the second conveyor unit  210 ). The produce  100  aligned in this manner can be conveyed by the de-stemming apparatus  200  in the direction of motion  227  passing the first point within the range  225 , which may be a location or point of the de-stemming apparatus  200  that includes the first portion  250  of the second conveyor unit  210  or a corresponding proximate portion of the first conveyor unit  205 . In one implementation, the produce  100  is conveyed onto the first conveyor unit  205  or the second conveyor unit  210  without an image recognition control system. 
     In some implementations, the de-stemming apparatus  200  conveys the produce  100  in the direction of motion  227 , and at least one third conveyor unit  215  or at least one fourth conveyor unit  220  engage at least part of the produce  100 . The third conveyor unit  215  and the fourth conveyor unit  220  can operate in a direction consistent with a direction of operation of the first conveyor unit  205  and the second conveyor unit  210 . For example, the top surface  245  of the first conveyor unit  205  and the top surface  255  of the second conveyor unit  210  can move in the direction of motion  227  or the direction of motion  229 , and a bottom surface  260  of the third conveyor unit  215  and a bottom surface  265  of the fourth conveyor unit  220  can also move in the direction of motion (or trajectory)  227  or the direction of motion (or trajectory)  229 , under the control of one or more driving units  235 . In this example, from the perspective of  FIG. 2 , the first conveyor unit  205  and the second conveyor unit  210  can operate at one speed and rotate in a clockwise direction, and the third conveyor unit  215  and the fourth conveyor unit  220  can operate at the same speed as the first and second conveyor units  205  to  210  but can rotate in a counterclockwise direction. 
     In some implementations, the bottom surface  260  of the third conveyor unit  215  and the top surface  245  of the first conveyor unit  205  engage a first portion  105  of the produce  100  in an opening defined between the bottom surface  260  and the top surface  245 . For example, the first conveyor unit  205  and the third conveyor unit  215  can convey the pod  115  in the direction of motion  227 . In this example, contact or compression force between the first conveyor unit  205  and the third conveyor unit  215  can hold the pod  115  in a fixed position as the produce  100  is conveyed in a trajectory along a longitudinal length of the de-stemming apparatus  100  in a space defined between the third conveyor unit  215  and the first conveyor unit  205 . In this example, the pod  115  (or other first portion  105 ) of the produce  100  can be pinched or fixed in position between the first conveyor unit  205  and the third conveyor unit  215  with compression force sufficient to hold the pod  115  in a fixed position during conveyance from the first point of the de-stemming apparatus  200  (a location within the range of first points  225 ) through a second point of the de-stemming apparatus  200  (a location within the range of second points  230 ). 
     In some implementations, the second conveyor unit  210  and the fourth conveyor unit  220  can engage the second portion  110  of the produce  100 . For example, the bottom surface  265  of the fourth conveyor unit  220  and the top surface  255  of the second conveyor unit  210  can engage at least part of the stem  120  and compression force from the engagement applied to the stem  120  holds the stem  120  in a fixed or substantially fixed position during conveyance in the direction of motion  229  in a space defined between the bottom surface  265  and the top surface  255 . In one implementation, the point of engagement of the pod  115  with the first conveyor unit  205  and the third conveyor unit  215  occurs at a point of the de-stemming apparatus  200  within the range  225  or at a pivot point  270 . The point of engagement of the stem  120  with the second conveyor unit  210  and the fourth conveyor unit  220  can also occur at a point of the de-stemming apparatus  200  within the range  225  or at the pivot point  270 . 
     In some implementations, the de-stemming apparatus  200  engages two different portions of one item of produce  100 , such as a pepper. For example, the first conveyor unit  205  together with the third conveyor unit  215  can engage the first portion  105  (e.g., the pod  115 ) of the item of produce  100 , and the second conveyor unit  210  together with the fourth conveyor unit  220  can engage the second portion  110  (e.g., the stem  120 ) of the item of produce. In one implementation, the two engagements occur substantially simultaneously. For example, the de-stemming apparatus  200  can engage the first portion  105  and second portion  110  of the item of produce  100  within a distance of three inches or less of conveyance in the direction of motion  227 , direction of motion  229 , or a combination of both directions of motion  227 ,  229 . In some implementations, the de-stemming apparatus  200  engages the pod  115  (or first portion  105  of the produce  100 ) and the stem  120  (or the second portion  110 ) sequentially, (e.g., with the pod  115  engaged first, and with the stem subsequently engaged after three or more inches of produce conveyance in the direction of motion  227 , direction of motion  229 , or a combination thereof). The directions of motion  227  and the direction of motion  229  can be linear directions of motion. 
     In some implementations, the de-stemming apparatus  200  conveys the first portion  105  of the item of produce  100  along a first trajectory in a first direction, such as the direction of motion  227 , and conveys the second portion  110  of the same item of produce  100  along a second trajectory in a second direction, such as the direction of motion  229 . The two trajectories can differ with respect to each other by between zero and 90 degrees. 
     For example, first conveyor unit  205  can convey an item of produce  100  toward the third conveyor unit  215  in the direction of motion  227 . This can bring the first portion  105  of the produce  100  (e.g., the pod  115 ) into contact with the third conveyor unit  215 . The first portion  105  continues conveyance into the space or opening between the top surface  245  of the first conveyor unit  205  and the bottom surface  260  of the third conveyor unit  215 . This conveyance applies a compression force to the first portion  105  of the produce  100  sufficient to hold the first portion  105  in a fixed position in the direction of motion  227 . In some implementations, with the first portion  105  of the produce  100  held in position between the first conveyor unit  205  and the third conveyor unit  215 , at least one driving unit  235  continues to move the conveyor units  205 ,  215  to convey the first portion in the direction of motion  227 . 
     Continuing with this example, the first portion  250  of the second conveyor unit  210  can convey or travel with the same item of produce  100  toward the fourth conveyor unit  220  in the direction of motion  227 . The second portion  110  of the produce  100  (e.g., the stem  120 ) is brought into contact with the fourth conveyor unit  220 . The second portion  110  continues conveyance into the space or opening between the top surface  255  of the second conveyor unit  210  and the bottom surface  265  of the fourth conveyor unit  220 . This conveyance applies a compression force to the second portion  110  of the produce  100  sufficient to hold the second portion  110  in a fixed position in the direction of motion  229 . 
     In one implementation, the second portion  110  of the produce  100  (e.g., the stem  120 ) engages the fourth conveyor unit  220  at or proximate to the pivot point  270  between the first portion  250  and a second portion  275  of the second conveyor unit  210 . The pivot point  270  can define an angle from greater than zero to 90 degrees between the first portion  250  of the second conveyor unit  210  (or the first conveyor unit  205 ) and the second portion  275  of the second conveyor unit  210 . 
     Thus, different portions of the de-stemming apparatus  200  can engage different portions of the produce  100  and can convey the different portions of the produce along different trajectories that diverge from each other. In some implementations, the divergence creates a separation force between the first portion  105  and the second portion  110  of the produce  100 . For example, the first conveyor unit  205  and the third conveyor unit  215  can engage the pod  115  in the opening between these two conveyor units  205 ,  215  with compression force that holds the pod  115  in a fixed position (e.g., without substantially puncturing, tearing, or disfiguring the pod  115 ) while conveying the pod  115  along the trajectory of the direction of motion  227 . In one implementation, the size of the opening substantially matches (e.g., is the same to 10% less than) the maximum diameter of the pod  115 , e.g., less than three inches, or less than two inches for example. 
     The second conveyor unit  210  and the fourth conveyor unit  220  can engage the stem  120  of the same item of produce  100  in the opening between these two conveyor units  210 ,  220  with compression force that holds the stem  120  in a fixed position while conveying the stem along the trajectory of the direction of motion  229 . In one implementation, the size of the opening substantially matches (e.g., is the same to 10% less than) the maximum diameter of the stem  120 , e.g., less than 0.25 inches for example. In one implementation, the stem  120  (or other second portion  110 ) is pinched between the second conveyor unit  210  and the fourth conveyor unit  220  so that, for example, the conveyor belts of the conveyor units  210 ,  220  contact each other on lateral sides of the stem  120  such as before and after the area where the stem  120  is disposed, or between consecutive stems  120 . 
     In some implementations, conveyance by the de-stemming apparatus  200  of the produce  100  along these diverging trajectories creates a separation force that separates the first portion  105  of the item of produce  100  from the second portion  110  of the same item of produce. For example, the second portion  275  of the second conveyor unit  210  can be disposed at an angle of between zero and 60 degrees relative to the first conveyor unit  205 , or relative to the first portion  250  of the second conveyor unit  210 , so that the divergence between trajectories is between zero and 60 degrees in this example. 
     The separation force generated by conveying different portions of the produce  100  along different trajectories can pull or peel the produce  100  apart between the first portion  105  and the second portion  110 . For example, due to the separation force, the de-stemming apparatus  200  can peel at least a portion of the stem  120  or the calyx  125  from the pod  115 . In this example, the stem  120  and the calyx  125  can remain attached to each other and be separated from the pod  115 , with the pod  115  intact (e.g., without cut, puncture, or rupture wounds that penetrate into the item of produce  100  or into any internal cavities of the produce  100 ). In this example, it is the separation force, and not a cutting blade, water jet, air blade (e.g., concentrated air flow), or separation obstacle (e.g., a post, wall, or blocker) that separates the first portion  105  from the second portion  110 . 
     Once separated, the first portion  105  of the item of produce  100  can remain held in position between the first and third conveyor units  205  and  215  during continued conveyance of the first portion  105  in the direction of motion  227 , and the second portion  110  of the produce  100  can remain held in position between the second and fourth conveyor units  210  and  220  during continued conveyance of the second portion  110  in the direction of motion  229  until the first portion  105  and the second portion  110  are expelled or released from the de-stemming apparatus  200 , further conveyed, or deposited into one or more receptacles for further processing, transport, quality control, disposal, or recycling. 
     The separation of the first portion  105  and the second portion  110  of the item of produce  100  can occur between two points of the de-stemming apparatus  200 . For example, the first point of the de-stemming apparatus  220  can be a point during which both the first portion  105  and the second portion  110  are conveyed in the direction of motion  227 . At this point, the item of produce  100  includes both first portion  105  and the second portion  110 , which are attached to each other. For example, the stem  120  and the calyx  125  are attached to the pod  115  of the pepper  100 . In one implementation, the first point is a point along the range  225  of the de-stemming apparatus  200 , a point of the de-stemming apparatus  200  that includes the first portion  250  of the second conveyor unit  210 , or a point at or proximate to the pivot point  270 . 
     Continuing with this example, the second point of the de-stemming apparatus  200  can be a point by which the first portion  105  and the second portion  110  are separated from each other. In one example, at the second point, the first portion  105  (e.g., the pod  115 ) is conveyed in the direction of motion  227 , and the second portion  110  (e.g., the stem  120  and the calyx  125 ) are conveyed in the direction of motion  229 . The separation of the first portion  105  from the second portion  110  can occur or be completed at or prior to conveyance past the second point of the de-stemming apparatus  200 . In one implementation, the second point is a point along the range  230  of the de-stemming apparatus  200 , or a point of the de-stemming apparatus  200  that includes the second portion  275  of the second conveyor unit  210 . In some implementations, the first point is within the range  225  and the second point is within the range  230 . 
     In some implementations, the de-stemming apparatus  200  includes at least one mounting structure  280 . The mounting structure  280  can include a plurality of legs, beams, tables, platforms, or support members connected to or configured to support at least one of the conveyor units  205  to  220 . 
     The conveyor units  205  to  220  can have various dimensions. In some implementations, the first conveyor unit  205  is 10 inches or less in width, and 24 inches or longer in length. In one implementation, the second conveyor unit  210  is 6 inches or less in width, the first portion  250  is at least 12 inches in length and the second portion  275  is also at least 12 inches in length. The first and second conveyor units  205 ,  210  can also be several feet in length, or longer depending for example on whether or not the de-stemming apparatus  200  is fixed or portable, or constructed for low or high volume produce processing. In some implementations, the third conveyor unit  215  is substantially the same width (e.g., +/−10%) and shorter in length that the first conveyor unit  205 , and the fourth conveyor unit  220  is substantially the same width (e.g., +/−10%) and shorter in length that the second conveyor unit  210 . In one implementation, the fourth conveyor unit  220  is less than half of the length of the second conveyor unit  210 . The third conveyor unit  215  can also be less than half the length of the first conveyor unit  205 . 
     In some implementations, at least one bracket or connecting member  285  couples the first conveyor unit  205  with the third conveyor unit  215 . For example, at least one connecting member  285  can fix the third conveyor unit  215  in position above (from the perspective of  FIG. 2 ) at least a portion of the first conveyor unit  205 . In this example, the connecting members  285  position the bottom surface  260  of the third conveyor unit  215  parallel to the top surface  245  of the first conveyor unit  205  with an opening (e.g. for the pod  115 ) between the bottom surface  260  and the top surface  245 . In one implementation this opening is less than three inches. 
     The de-stemming apparatus  200  can also include at least one bracket or connecting member  290  to couple the second conveyor unit  210  with the fourth conveyor unit  220 . For example, at least one connecting member  290  can fix the fourth conveyor unit  220  in position above (from the perspective of  FIG. 2 ) at least a portion of the second conveyor unit  210 . In this example, the connecting members  290  position the bottom surface  265  of the fourth conveyor unit  220  parallel to the top surface  255  of the second portion  275  of the second conveyor unit  210  with an opening (e.g. for the stem  120 ) between the bottom surface  265  and the top surface  255 . In one implementation this opening is less than 0.25 inches. 
       FIG. 3  and  FIG. 4  illustrate examples of a de-stemming apparatus  200  from a front longitudinal perspective where the produce  100  (not shown in  FIGS. 3 and 4 ) is fed into the de-stemming apparatus  200  in the foreground, for example with the pod  115  disposed on the top surface  245  of the first conveyor unit  205 . In this example, the driving unit  235  that is attached to the first conveyor unit  205  drives the shaft  240  to rotate the first conveyor unit  205  and the second conveyor unit  210 . The rotation can carry the produce  100  on the top surface  245  toward the third conveyor unit  215  and the fourth conveyor unit  220 . 
     The de-stemming apparatus  200  can include a gap  305  between the first conveyor unit  205  and the second conveyor unit  210 , (the first portion  250  of which is visible in the examples of  FIGS. 3 and 4 ). For example, the gap  305  can include a space defined by an edge  310  of the first conveyor unit  205  and an edge  315  of the second conveyor unit  210 . In some implementations, the edge  310  and the edge  315  are proximate edges of their respective conveyor units that define the gap  305  as a substantially parallel opening between the first conveyor unit  205  and the second conveyor unit  210 . The conveyor belts of the conveyor units  205  to  220  can extend to, or within 0.25 inches of their respective edges. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1-4 , among others, the gap  305  can have a length (e.g., along the longitudinal axis of the de-stemming apparatus  200 ) that is substantially the same length as the length of the first portion  250  of the second conveyor unit  210 . The width of the gap  305  can define the distance between the first conveyor unit  205  and the adjacent or proximate first portion  250  of the second conveyor unit  210 . In some implementations, the width of the gap  305  is between 0.25 and 3 inches. The width of the gap  305  can be less than the length of the second portion  110  of the produce  100  that the de-stemming apparatus  200  processes. In one implementation, the width of the gap  305  is less than the length of the stem  120  of the produce  100 . In some implementations, the top surface  255  can be substantially 0.25 inches higher than the top surface  245 , or the first portion  250  of the second conveyor unit  210  can be substantially 0.25 inches higher than the first conveyor unit  205 . A bar or runner can be disposed along the gap  305 . For example, the bar can be substantially (e.g., +/−10%) 0.25 inches in height and width at the beginning of the gap  305 , (e.g., the foreground as in  FIG. 3 , or proximate to the shaft  240 ), and can taper off to be substantially level or coplanar with the top surface  255  at the pivot point  270 . 
     In some implementations, the produce  100  crosses over the gap  305 . For example, all or substantially all of the first portion  105  of the produce  100  can be disposed on the top surface  245  of the first conveyor unit  205 , and at least some of the second portion  110  of the produce  100  can be disposed on (e.g., resting on) or above the top surface  255  of the second conveyor unit  210 , (e.g., the top surface of the first portion  250  of the second conveyor unit  210 ). The portion of the produce over the gap  305  can include parts of the pod  115 , the stem  120  or the calyx  125  for example. In one implementation, during processing, (e.g., a de-stemming operation performed by the de-stemming apparatus  200 ) the produce  100  is aligned on the de-stemming apparatus  200  with at least 75% of the first portion  105  on or above the top surface  245  of the first conveyor unit and with at least 10% of the second portion  110  on or above the second conveyor unit  210 . The remaining portion of the produce  100  can be disposed over the gap  305  in this example. 
     Conveyor belts of the first to fourth conveyor units  205  to  220  can include treads  320  on their outer surfaces. For example, the conveyor belt of the first conveyor unit  205  can include treads  320  in the form of spaced apart parallel walls or ridges that protrude out, or upwards, from the conveyor belt to accommodate the produce  100 . The treads  320  can include various shapes or patterns, such as walls, tread patterns, wave patterns, or serpentine patterns. In one implementations, the treads  320  of the first conveyor unit  205  or the third conveyor unit  215  accommodate the first portion  105  (e.g., the pod  115 ) of the produce  100 , and the treads  320  of the second conveyor unit  210  or the fourth conveyor unit  220  accommodate the second portion (e.g., including the stem  120 ) of the produce  100 . 
     In one implementation, the treads  320  of the first conveyor unit  205  have a pattern that is different than the treads  320  of the second conveyor unit  210 , the third conveyor unit  215 , and the fourth conveyor unit  220 . For example, the treads  320  of the first conveyor unit  205  can include a series of parallel walls, where a recess between two successive parallel walls accommodates a single item of produce  100 , (e.g., a single pod  115  can be disposed between two consecutive walls). The treads  320  of the second conveyor unit  210 , third conveyor unit  215 , and fourth conveyor unit  220  can have different shapes, sizes or patterns. In some implementations, the treads  320  of the first conveyor unit  205  are configured to interact with the treads  320  of the third conveyor unit  215 . For example, the treads  320  of the first conveyor unit  205  can include protrusions, and the treads  320  of the third conveyor unit  215  can include depressions or recesses. The treads  320  of the respective conveyor units can align to secure at least a portion of the produce  100  in a fixed position during conveyance through the de-stemming apparatus  200 . The treads  320  of the second conveyor unit  210  and the fourth conveyor unit  220  can also align with each other during operation of the de-stemming apparatus  200 . 
       FIG. 5  illustrates one example of a de-stemming apparatus  200  from a front longitudinal perspective where the produce  100  is fed into the de-stemming apparatus  200 . In one implementation, the majority of the pod  115  is disposed on the top surface  245 , for example between consecutive treads  320 , with the calyx  125  generally positioned over the gap  305 , and with the stem  120  crossing the gap  305  over the second conveyor unit  210 , with at least a portion of the stem  120  on or over the top surface  255  of the second conveyor unit  210 . In one implementation, at least the first conveyor unit  205  and the second conveyor unit  210  are in motion to convey the produce  100  toward the third conveyor unit  215  and the fourth conveyor unit  220 , which can also be in motion to engage the produce  100  when at least a portion of the produce  100  is brought into contact with the third conveyor unit  215  or the fourth conveyor unit  220 . 
       FIG. 6  illustrates one example of a de-stemming apparatus  200  where the produce  100  is fed into the de-stemming apparatus  200 . In one implementation, each of the first conveyor unit  205 , the second conveyor unit  210 , the third conveyor unit  215 , and the fourth conveyor unit  220  are in motion (e.g., under the control of at least one driving unit  235 ) at the same or substantially the same speed (e.g., +/−10%). The speed can range from 0.1 to 10 feet per second, for example. 
     During operation of the de-stemming apparatus  200  the conveyor belt  605  of the first conveyor unit  205  can carry the produce  100  with the pod  115  disposed on the top surface  245 . The third conveyor unit  215  together with the first conveyor unit  205  can engage part of the produce  100 , such as the pod  115 , and the fourth conveyor unit  220  can engage a different part of the produce  100 , such as the stem  120 . In this example and referring to  FIGS. 1-6 , among others, with the four conveyor units in motion, the first conveyor unit  205  and the third conveyor unit  215  can hold at least a portion of the pod  115  (or other first portion  105 ) of an item of produce generally fixed in position (e.g., during conveyance in the direction of motion  227 ). Continuing with this example, the second conveyor unit  210  and the fourth conveyor unit  220  can hold at least a portion of the stem  120  (or other second portion  110 ) of the same item of produce  100  generally fixed in position. 
     In this example, the different components (e.g., pod  115 , stem  120 ) of the produce  100  can be held in a their positions during conveyance through at least part of the de-stemming apparatus  200  by the conveyor belt  605  of the first conveyor unit  205 , a conveyor belt  610  of the second conveyor unit  210 , a conveying belt  615  of the third conveyor unit  215 , and a conveying belt  620  of the fourth conveyor unit  220 . 
     In one implementation, during engagement with the stem  120 , the produce  100  is traveling in a first trajectory, e.g., the direction of motion  227 . As motion continues, the produce  100  can pass the pivot point  270  between the first portion  250  and the second portion  275  of the second conveyor unit  210 . When the produce  100  passes the pivot point  270 , at least a portion of the stem  120  (or other second portion  110  of the produce  100 ) begins conveyance along a different second trajectory, e.g., the direction of motion  229 . From the pivot point  270 , the two trajectories can diverge from each other by between zero and 90 degrees. In one implementation, this divergence is between 10 and 45 degrees. A portion of the produce  100  can extend across the gap  305 . 
     During continued conveyance through the de-stemming apparatus  200 , the angular displacement between the trajectory of the portion of the pod  115  held in place by the first conveyor unit  205  and the third conveyor unit  215  (e.g., travelling in direction  227 ) and the portion of the stem  120  held in place by the second conveyor unit  210  and the fourth conveyor unit  220  (e.g., travelling in direction  229 ) generates a separation force between the stem  120  and the pod  115 . In some implementations, the separation force peels at least some of the stem  120  and the calyx  125  (or other part of a second portion  110  of the produce  100 ) from the pod  115  (or other part of the first portion  105  of the produce  100 ). 
     With sufficient distance (e.g., between 0.5 and 24 inches) of continued conveyance of the produce  100  in diverging directions, at least part of the second portion  110  separates from the remainder of the produce  100 . The distance the produce  100  travels between a first point where it is held in position (e.g., a point of initial engagement within the range  225 , along the length of the first portion  250  of the second conveyor unit  210 , or at or proximate to the pivot point  270 ) and a second point where separation is complete (e.g., within the range  230 , along the length of the second portion  275  of the second conveyor unit  210 , or downstream from the pivot point  270 ) varies with the angle, or degree of divergence, between the first and third conveyor units (travelling in a first direction) and the second and fourth conveyor units (travelling in a second direction). The angle can vary between zero and 90 degrees. In some implementations the separation occurs within 18 inches from the pivot point  270  where the pod  115  trajectory and the stem  120  trajectory begin to diverge. 
       FIG. 7  illustrates one example of a de-stemming apparatus  200  from a rear perspective, for example where the produce  100  is expelled from the de-stemming apparatus  200 . With reference to  FIGS. 1-7 , among others, the first conveyor unit  205  and the third conveyor unit  215  can convey the first portion  105  of the produce  100  (e.g., the pod  115 ) in a first trajectory (e.g., the direction of motion  227 ), and the second portion  275  of the second conveyor unit  210  and the fourth conveyor unit  220  convey can convey the produce  100  in a second trajectory (e.g., the direction of motion  229 ). Conveyance in these diverging paths can generate a separation force between at least a portion of the stem  120  and the remainder of the produce  100 . The separation force can separate or peel (e.g., in a peeling motion or manner) at least a portion of the stem  120  apart from the remainder of the produce  100 . For example, the stem  120  and the calyx  125  can be separated from the pod  115 . 
     In some implementations, the first portion  105  of the produce  100  can be expelled from the de-stemming apparatus  200  due for example to gravitational forces when the first portion  105  is conveyed by at least the first conveyor unit  205  beyond the end portion  705  of the first conveyor unit  205 . For example, the pod  115  can fall into a box or onto another conveyor unit for further processing, quality assessment, cleaning, packaging, or distribution. In some implementations, rather than falling from the end portion  705 , the first conveyor unit of another conveyor unit or apparatus can continue to transport or carry the first portion  105  for further processing, quality assessment, cleaning, packaging, or distribution. In one implementation, a worker can manually remove the first portion  105  from the de-stemming apparatus  200  subsequent to separation of at least part of the second portion  110  from the first portion  105 . 
     The second portion  110  or portion thereof can be expelled from the de-stemming apparatus  200  due to conveyance beyond the edge  710  of the second conveyor unit  210 . For example, at least a portion of the stem  120  or the calyx  125  can fall into a box for onto another conveyor unit, or can continue to be conveyed by at least the conveyor unit  210  for further processing, recycling, or disposal. 
       FIG. 8  illustrates one example of the produce  100  subsequent to separation of the second portion  110  from the first portion  105  by the de-stemming apparatus  200 . In one implementation, the de-stemming apparatus  200  separates at least part of the second portion  110  from the remainder of the produce  100 . For example, all or part of the stem  120  and the calyx  125  can be separated from the body or pod  115 . In some implementations, the pod  115  remains substantially intact after separation from the stem  120  or calyx  125 . For example, due to the peeling motion the pod  115  (or other first portion  105  of an item of produce  100 ) can be substantially free of punctures, tears, penetrations, or cut marks. In one implementation, the peeling motion that occurs due to the separation force causes separation between the calyx  125  and the pod  115 . In some implementations, the separation force causes separation between at least part of the stem  115  and the remainder of the produce  100 . In one implementation the produce  100  may have a minimal or no calyx  125 , and the separation can occur between the stem  120  and the pod  115 . 
     In some implementations, each of the first to fourth conveyor units  205 - 220  (e.g., all four) can be in simultaneous motion. The conveyor units  205 - 220  can be driven by the same or different driving units  235 , and one driving unit  235  can drive one or more of conveyor units  235  at the same speed (e.g., within +/−10%). In one implementation, one driving unit  235  drives each of the four conveyor units  205 - 220 . In some implementations, the four conveyor units  205 - 220  are different parts of one conveyor unit. For example, the de-stemming apparatus  200  can have more or less than four conveyor belts or more or less than four conveyor units. One conveyor belt can convey the produce  100  along more than one conveyor unit. In one implementation, at least one of the conveyor units  205 - 220  can be passive, e.g., not actively driven by the driving unit  235 . For example, the third conveyor unit  215  or the fourth conveyor unit  220  can include rollers or bearings that are not driven by any of the driving units  235  that can rotate or spin to allow at least a portion of the produce  100  to pass. 
     In some implementations, the produce  100  can be fed into the de-stemming apparatus  200  at, or proximate to, the pivot point  270 . In this example, the produce  100  enters the de-stemming apparatus  200  in a fixed or substantially fixed position with the produce engaged on multiple sides (e.g., on the bottom by the first conveyor unit  205  or the second conveyor unit  210 ) and on the top (e.g., by the third conveyor unit  215  or the fourth conveyor unit  220 ). In one implementation, the produce  100  can be initially conveyed with only bottom support for the produce  100  and with the produce  100  being in a loose or non-fixed position prior to engagement, proximate, or prior to the pivot point  270 . 
     The de-stemming apparatus  200  can de-stem produce  100  in a low or high volume environment. For example, the de-stemming apparatus  200  can be part of a volume production plant in an assembly line type environment where a high volume of produce  100  (e.g., between 500 and 2500 pounds of produce per hour) is de-stemmed by the de-stemming apparatus  200 . The de-stemming apparatus  200  can also be a portable or semi-portable unit that can be set up outside a factory or mass production environment, such as outside in a field or farm sufficiently close to a crop so that a harvester (or harvesting machine) can pick the produce  100  and feed the produce  100  to the de-stemming apparatus, e.g., by manually or automatically placing the first portion  105  of the produce  100  on the top surface  245  of the first conveyor unit  205 . The de-stemming apparatus  200  can process multiple items of produce  100  simultaneously, with different items of produce  100  in different stages of the de-stemming process during sequential conveyance through the de-stemming apparatus  200 . 
       FIG. 9  illustrates a flow diagram illustrating a method  900  of processing produce, according to an illustrative implementation. The method  900  includes at least one act of conveying produce (ACT  905 ). In some implementations the produce is conveyed (ACT  905 ) through a de-stemming apparatus from a first point to or through a second point. The method  900  can convey, for example using the de-stemming apparatus, produce having a first portion (e.g. a pod) and a second portion (e.g., a stem) at a constant speed. During conveyance (ACT  905 ) between the first point and the second point, the first portion of the produce can be fixed in a first trajectory. For example, at least part of the first portion of the produce can be held in place by one or more conveyor units. The second portion of the produce can be fixed in a second trajectory during conveyance (ACT  905 ) between the first and second points. In some implementations, the second trajectory can deviate from the first trajectory by an angle of between greater than zero and less than 90 degrees. For example, the deviation can be greater than zero and less than 45 degrees, or less than 25 degrees. In one implementation, the produce can be conveyed (ACT  905 ) between the first and second points at a constant speed (e.g., +/−10%). The first and second trajectories can be linear. 
     The method  900  can include at least one act of generating a separation force (ACT  910 ). The separation force can be applied between the first portion and second portions of the produce. For example, the separation force can be applied to the stem or pod of the produce to separate at least a portion of the stem from the remainder of the produce (e.g., from the pod). 
     In one implementation, the method  900  generates the separation force (ACT  910 ) by conveying the pod in a first trajectory and by conveying the stem in a second trajectory that deviates from the first trajectory. For example, the pod (or other first portion of produce) can be conveyed in the first trajectory by at least a first conveyor unit, and the stem (or other second portion of produce) can be conveyed in the second trajectory by at least a second conveyor unit. At least one driving unit can drive the first and second conveyor units at the same or substantially the same speed, (e.g., within 10%) during conveyance in the different trajectories, such as between a first point (e.g., the pivot point) and a second point where there the separation is complete. 
     The de-stemming apparatus  200  can be part of a system or apparatus for processing produce that includes a produce alignment apparatus to align the produce  100  on the de-stemming apparatus  200 . For example,  FIG. 10  and  FIG. 15 , among others, depict an example produce processing system (or apparatus)  1000 . The processing system  1000  can include at least one sizing unit  1005 , at least one receiving unit  1010 , and at least one de-stemming apparatus  200 . 
     The sizing unit  1005  can convey the produce  100  in a first direction, e.g., the direction of motion  1015 . The sizing unit  1005  can be supported by at least one frame  1007 . The sizing unit  1005  can align the produce  100  vertically, along a longitudinal axis of the produce, and can release or drop the produce  100  onto the receiving unit  1010 . The receiving unit  1010  can convey the produce  100  in a second direction, e.g., the direction of motion  1020 . The direction of motion  1020  can be perpendicular or substantially perpendicular (e.g., +/−10%) from the direction of motion  1015 . The receiving unit  1010  can include at least one produce receptacle  1025 . The produce receptacle  1025  can have a cavity or open space to catch or receive the produce  100  subsequent to release of the produce  100  from the sizing unit  1005 . For example, the produce  100  can be positioned with the first portion  105  of the produce  100  at least partially disposed in the cavity of the produce receptacle  1025 , and with the second portion  110  of the produce  100  at least partially protruding from the cavity of the produce receptacle  1025 . In some implementations, the receiving unit  1010  extends or passes through at least one opening  1030  of the sizing unit  1005 . The produce receptacle  1025  can be configured to receive the produce  100 . For example, the produce receptacle  1025  can be oriented in a position with the open cavity facing up, toward the top surface  1115  of the sizing unit  1005  when the produce receptacle  1025  passes through the opening  1030  of the sizing unit  1005 . 
     The produce receptacle  1025  can convey the produce  100  in the direction of motion  1020  to an end portion  1035  where rotation of the produce receptacle  1025  around the end portion  1035  causes the produce to expel or release the produce  100  from the cavity of the produce receptacle  1025  onto the de-stemming apparatus  200 . For example, at least part of the produce  100  can land on the first conveyor unit  205 , e.g., directly or via an intervening conveyor unit operating in the direction of motion  1020 . In some implementations, at least part of the first portion  105  of the produce  100  is expelled from the produce receptacle  1025  and arrives on the top surface  245  of the first conveyor unit  205 . 
     The de-stemming apparatus  200  can convey the produce  100  in a third direction, e.g., the direction of motion  227 , for example to separate the first portion  105  of the produce  100  from the second portion  110  of the produce  100  via engagement with at least one additional conveyor unit such as the second conveyor unit  210 , the third conveyor unit  215 , or the fourth conveyor unit  220  of the de-stemming apparatus  200 . In some implementations, the de-stemming apparatus  200  includes at least one alignment unit such as the alignment element  1040 . The alignment element  1040  can include a structural component disposed over the top surface  245  of the first conveyor unit  205 , for example without touching the top surface  245 . The produce  100  conveyed in the direction of motion  227  can contact the alignment element  1040 . 
     Continued conveyance of the top surface  245  in the direction of motion  227  with the produce  100  on the top surface  245  and also at least partially contacting the alignment element  1040  can position the produce  100  for engagement by at least one additional conveyor unit, such as the third conveyor unit  215  or the fourth conveyor unit  220 . The alignment element  1040  can be metal, plastic, or wood, for example, and can have various shapes, such as triangular or quadrilateral. The alignment element  1040  can also be or include at least one brush, sweeping mechanism, or blocker configured for contact with the produce  100  and to align the produce  100  to receive a separation force. 
       FIG. 11  and  FIG. 12  depict examples of portions of the sizing unit  1005  of the produce processing system  1000 . The sizing unit  1005  can include a plurality of rollers  1105  configured for conveyance in the direction of motion  1015 , e.g., along a longitudinal axis  1120 . The rollers  1105  can be part of a conveying unit of the sizing unit  1005 , including for example the frame  1007  including beams, support structures, driving units or a control system configured to convey the rollers  1105  in a generally rectangular path defining an opening  1030 , or in other elliptical, quadrilateral, square, or triangular paths. The rollers  1105  can be arranged substantially in parallel (e.g., +/−10 degrees) with each other, disposed longitudinally along the lateral axis  1110  of the sizing unit  1105 , as in the example of  FIG. 11 . In some implementations, as the rollers  1105  are conveyed in the direction of motion  1015  along the top surface  1115  of the sizing unit  1005 , the lateral distance  1120  between consecutive rollers  1105  increases, for example, from less than one inch to four inches. The lateral distances  1120  between the rollers  1105  can vary both within and outside this one to four inch range, for example to accommodate different sizes of the produce  100 . The rollers  1105  can be free-spinning elements that rotate about the lateral axis  1110 , or the rollers  1105  can be driven to rotate by one or more driving units or a sizing unit control system. The rollers  1105  can include ribbings, a ribbed sleeve, dimples, or a coarse sand-paper like surface that include abrasive material on the outer surface of the rollers  1105 . These elements, for example, can grip or lightly secure (e.g., without puncturing, tearing, or damaging) the produce  100  in position on the sizing unit  1005 . The rollers  1105  can also be smooth. 
     The produce  100  can be placed on the top surface  1115  of the sizing unit  1005 , as in the example of  FIG. 12 , which depicts an example of a portion of the sizing unit  1005  conveying the produce  100  in the direction of motion  1015 , e.g., from the foreground to the background from the perspective of  FIG. 12 . As the lateral distance  1120  between the rollers  1105  increases as the rollers  1105  move in the direction of motion  1015 , gravitational force and the shape of the produce  100  cause the produce  100  to fall between two consecutive rollers  1105 . For example, the produce  100  may be disposed on the top surface  1115  in the initial position  1205  where the produce  100  is lying across one or more rollers  1105  and the majority of the produce  100  is on or above the top surface  1115 . 
     As the lateral distance  1120  between rollers  1105  increases during conveyance in the direction of motion  1015 , gravity and the shape of the produce  100  can cause the produce  100  to move into an intermediate position, where portions (e.g., at least some of the first portion  105 ) begin to hang from, drop, or pass through the top surface  1115 . In some implementations, the produce  100  is eventually disposed in the aligned position  1210 . Various types of produce  100  will align themselves in generally repeatable positions given their generally uniform shapes and weight distributions. For example, the produce  100  may be a longitudinal pepper. In the aligned position  1210 , the longitudinal pepper can be generally disposed in a vertical (e.g., +/−10 degrees) position, along a longitudinal axis of the longitudinal pepper with the tip of the pod  115  or the first portion  105  of the produce  100  pointing down, towards the receiving unit  1010 , and with the stem  120  or the second portion  110  of the produce  100  pointing up, away from the receiving unit  1010 . For a period of time, the produce  100  can be held in the aligned position  1210  between two rollers  1105 , for example when the lateral distance  1120  is substantially the same (e.g., +/−10%) as a lateral diameter of a portion of the produce  100 . As the lateral distance  1120  expands during conveyance in the direction of motion  1015 , eventually the lateral distance  1120  can become greater than a maximum lateral diameter of the produce  100 , and gravity or other forces can cause the produce  100  to drop between consecutive rollers  1105  with the produce  100  oriented generally in the aligned position  1210 . Items of produce  100  having a smaller maximum lateral diameter can fall between consecutive rollers  1105  before items of produce  100  having a larger maximum lateral diameter. 
       FIG. 13  depicts an example of portions of the receiving unit  1010  and the de-stemming apparatus  200  of the produce processing system  1000 . The receiving unit  1010  can include a plurality of produce receptacles  1025 . For example, the produce receptacle  1025  can be aligned in rows  1305 , with varying numbers of the produce receptacles  1025  per row  1305 . The rows  1305  can be aligned along the longitudinal axis  1120  of the sizing unit  1105 , or along a lateral axis  1310  of the receiving unit  1010 . The rows  1305  can be substantially parallel (e.g., +/−10%) with each other. In some implementations, rather than rows  1305 , the produce receptacles  1025  can be in disposed in other configurations or patterns on the receiving unit  1010 . In some examples, at least one row  1305  includes exactly one produce receptacle  1025 , with a cavity configured to receive more than one item of produce  100 . The produce receptacles  1025  can be circular, curved, or closed on all (e.g., four) lateral sides. In some implementations, the produce receptacles  1025  are closed on three lateral sides and open on a fourth lateral side. Rather than lateral rows  1305 , a single produce receptacle  1025  can extend along a longitudinal axis of the receiving unit  1010  in the form of a trough or longitudinal cavity extending in the direction of motion  1020 . 
     The produce receptacles  1025  can be positioned proximate one another along each row  1305  and between adjacent rows so that the produce  100  released from the sizing unit  1005  will land in a cavity of one of the produce receptacles  1025 , rather than landing on the receiving unit  1010  between produce receptacles  1025 . For example, the produce receptacles  1025  can touch or be proximate to (e.g., within one inch of) at least one other produce receptacle  1025  in the same row  1305  or in an adjacent row  1305 . In one implementation, each produce receptacle  1025  is configured to receive one item of produce  100 , e.g., one pepper. 
     The produce receptacles  1025 , or their cavities can have a uniform size, e.g., having a maximum width or diameter of less than four inches, between two inches and four inches, or the other sizes. For example, a first produce receptacle  1025  in a row  1305  can be disposed on the receiving unit  1010  so that it passes through the opening  1030  of the sizing unit  1005  beneath rollers  1105  that have a smaller lateral distance  1120 , relative to a second produce receptacle  1025  in the same row  1305 . In this example, the second produce receptacle  1025  in the row  1305  can be configured to receive produce  100  having a larger maximum width or diameter than the first produce receptacle in the row  1305 . The second produce receptacle  1025  can be positioned so that it passes beneath the top surface  1115  of the sizing unit  1005  at a location where the lateral distance  1120  is greater than the lateral distance  1120  above the first produce receptacle  1025  in the row  1305 . 
     The produce  100  can be conveyed in the direction of motion  1020  in the aligned position  1210  in cavities of the produce receptacles  1025  subsequent to the produce  100  dropping from the sizing unit  1005  into the produce receptacles  1025  in the aligned position  1210 . When the produce receptacle  1025  reaches the end portion  1035 , conveyance of the produce receptacle  1025  around the end portion  1035  can expel the produce  100  from the produce receptacle  1025 . The produce  100  can land on the first conveyor unit  205 , for example with the first portion  105  of the produce  100  on the first conveyor unit  205  proximate to the end portion  1035 . In this example, the second conveyor unit  210  can be disposed distal to the end portion  1035 , relative to the first conveyor unit  205 , with the first conveyor unit  205  between receiving unit  1010  and the second conveyor unit  210 . 
     In some implementations, rather than expelling the produce directly from the produce receptacle  1025  onto the de-stemming apparatus  200 , the produce processing system  1000  includes a supplemental conveyor unit disposed between the end portion  1035  of the receiving unit  1010  and the first conveyor unit  205  of the de-stemming apparatus  200 . The supplemental conveyor unit can convey the produce  100  in the direction of motion  1020  and deposit the produce  100  at least partially on the first conveyor unit  205 . The first conveyor unit  205  can receive at least the first portion  105  of the produce  100  from the produce receptacle  1025  or from the supplemental conveyor unit disposed between the receiving unit  1010  and the first conveyor unit  205 . The supplemental conveyor unit can be a stand-alone unit or an extension of the receiving unit  1010  or the de-stemming apparatus  200 . The supplemental conveyor unit can have various lengths, e.g., one foot, two feet, or less than five feet measured along the direction of motion  1020 , and can have a width substantially the same (e.g., +/−10%) as a width of the receiving unit  1010 . In one implementation, the supplemental conveyor unit moves faster than at least one of the receiving unit  1010  and the first conveyor unit  205 . 
     The components of the produce processing system  1000  can be stand-alone devices or integral parts of the produce processing system. For example, the sizing unit  1005 , the receiving unit  1010 , and the de-stemming apparatus  200  can be separate individual devices, or can be an integrated part of the produce processing system  1000 . The various conveyor units and elements of the sizing unit  1005 , the receiving unit  1010 , and the de-stemming apparatus  200  can be driven by one or more drive units (e.g., motors) such as one or more driving units  235 . In one implementation, all conveyor units can be in motion simultaneously at substantially the same speed (e.g., +/−10%) under the control of one or more drive units. 
       FIG. 14  is a flow chart of a method  1400  of processing the produce  100 . The method  1400  can include conveying the produce  100  in a first direction (ACT  1405 ). For example, the sizing unit  1005  can convey the produce  100  in the direction of motion  1015 . The method  1400  can also include releasing the produce (ACT  1410 ). For example, the sizing unit  1005  can release the produce  100  in a vertical position (e.g., the aligned position  1210 ) during conveyance of the produce  100  in the direction of motion  1015 . 
     The method  1400  can also include receiving the produce  100  in the produce receptacle  1025  (ACT  1415 ). For example, the produce  100  can land in the produce receptacle  1025  during conveyance of the produce receptacle in the direction of motion  1020  with the produce receptacle  1025  oriented in a first position, e.g., with a cavity of the produce receptacle facing up, toward the top surface  1115  of the sizing unit  1005  when the produce receptacle  1025  passes through the opening  1030  of the sizing unit  1005 . The method  1400  can include tipping the produce receptacle  1035  from a first position to a second position (ACT  1420 ). For example, the produce receptacle can tip or change orientations during conveyance around the end portion  1035  of the receiving unit  1010 . This can expel the produce  100  onto at least one additional conveyor unit, such as the conveyor unit  205  or the supplemental conveyor unit between the receiving unit  1010  and the de-stemming apparatus  200 . 
     The method  1400  can include aligning the produce  100  for engagement with at least one additional conveyor unit (ACT  1425 ), such as any of the first conveyor unit  205 , the second conveyor unit  210 , the third conveyor unit  215 , the fourth conveyor unit  220 , or a supplemental conveyor unit between the produce receptacle  1025  and the first conveyor unit  205 . In one implementation, once disposed on the de-stemming apparatus  200 , the alignment element  1040  aligns the produce for engagement with at least one conveyor unit. 
     The method  1400  can also include generating a separation force on the produce  100  (ACT  1430 ). For example, the method  1400  can align to produce on the de-stemming apparatus  200 , or convey the produce  100  toward the de-stemming apparatus  200 , to generate a separation force due to conveyance of the produce  100  in at least one of the direction of motion  227  and the direction of motion  229 . 
       FIG. 15 ,  FIG. 16 ,  FIG. 17 ,  FIG. 18 ,  FIG. 19 , and  FIG. 20 , among others, depict examples of portions of the produce processing system  1000 , e.g., portions of an apparatus for processing produce. With reference to  FIGS. 1-21 , the receiving unit  1010  can convey the produce  100 , e.g., the direction of motion  1020  or generally from the background to the foreground in the perspective of  FIG. 15 , among others. At least one driving unit  235  can drive the receiving unit  1010  to convey the produce. The same or a different driving unit  235  can drive other components of the produce processing system  1000  such as at least one of conveyor units  205 ,  210 ,  215 , or  220 , or the alignment element  1040 . 
     The produce processing system  1000  can include at least one supplemental conveyor unit  1505  to guide the produce  100  (or individual items thereof) from the receiving unit  1010  onto at least one component of the de-stemming apparatus  200 , such as the first conveyor unit  205  or the second conveyor unit  210 . For example, the supplemental conveyor unit  1505  can deposit the produce  100  at least partially on the first conveyor unit  205  by providing at least one channel  1510  or path for the produce  100  to follow upon conveyance in the direction of motion  1020  past the end portion  1035  of the receiving unit  1010  toward the first conveyor unit  205  or the second conveyor unit  210 . 
     The supplemental conveyor unit  1505  can include a frame or support structure  1515  to fix the supplemental conveyor unit in position. For example, the frame  1515  can secure at least part of the supplemental conveyor unit  1505  above the top surface  245  of the first conveyor unit  205 . The frame  1515  can also secure at least part of the receiving unit in position, and can secure at least one driving unit  235  in position, for example to drive the receiving unit  1010 . In some implementations, the frame  1515  secures both the supplemental conveyor unit  1505  and the receiving unit  1010  in position. The frame  1515  can be separate from or part of a larger frame assembly to secure other parts of the overall system or apparatus, such as the de-stemming apparatus  200  or the sizing unit  1005 . The frame  1515  can be part of the mounting structure  280  or can be a separate component from the mounting structure  280 . 
     The supplemental conveyor unit  1505  can include at least one channel wall  1520 . Two channel walls  1520  (e.g., successive, parallel, converging, or adjacent to each other) can define one channel  1510  between them. The channel walls  1520  can be spaced apart from one another by between one inch and ten inches. Two channel walls  1520  can be substantially parallel (e.g., within +/−10 degrees) of one another, or can converge toward each other, e.g., in the direction of motion  1020 . The supplemental conveyor unit  1505  can define one channel  1510  or multiple (e.g., between two and several dozen) channels  1510 . The channels  1510  can be defined to extend at least in part between the end portion  1035  of the receiving unit  1010  and the top surface  245  of the first conveyor unit  205 . The channels  1510  can also be defined by the channel walls  1520  at least in part above a top surface  1525  of the receiving unit  1010 . For example, at least one channel  1510  can extend proximate to at least a portion of the top surface  1525  of the receiving unit  1010 . The channels  1510  can be aligned at least in part in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal length of the openings  1030  of the sizing unit  1005 . 
     In some implementations, the channel walls  1520  do not contact the top surface  245  of the first conveyor unit  205 , or also do not contact the top surface  1525  of the receiving unit  1010 . For example, during operation, the top surface  1525  of the receiving unit can be in motion in the direction of motion  1020 , and the top surface  245  of the first conveyor unit  205  can be in motion in the direction of motion  227 . The supplemental conveyor unit  1505  or components thereof such as the channel walls  1520  can be static or fixed components, (e.g., not moving or not being driven by the driving units  235 .) There can be a gap or space between the static supplemental conveyor unit  1505  (or components thereof) and the moving first conveyor unit  205  or the moving receiving unit  1010  to avoid contact interference during operation. The supplemental conveyor unit  1505  can be a fixed static unit that is not in motion during operation of other components of the apparatus for processing items of the produce  100 . 
     The channels  1510  can be parallel with one another, and the supplemental conveyor unit  1505  can define any number of channels  1510 , e.g., from one channel  1510  to dozens of channels  1510  or more. The channels  1510  can receive the produce  100  from the receiving unit  1010 , and can guide the produce  100  from the receiving unit  1010  to components of the de-stemming apparatus  200  such as the first conveyor unit  205  or the second conveyor unit  210 , where the produce  100  can be deposited, e.g., on the top surface  245  or the top surface  255 . The first conveyor unit  205  or the second conveyor unit  210  can convey the produce  100  (e.g., in the direction of motion  227 ) toward at least on additional conveyor unit (e.g., the third conveyor unit  215  or the fourth conveyor unit  220 ), which can engage at least part of the produce  100  and subject the produce  100  to a separation force that can separate the first portion  105  of the produce  100  from the second portion  110  during conveyance through the de-stemming apparatus  200 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 16 , among others, the channel walls  1520  can include at least one tab portion  1605  and at least on extension portion  1610 . The tab portion  1605  and the extension portion  1610  can be integral parts of a single continuous channel wall  1520 , or can be separate components of the channel wall  1620  that are hinged, connected, fastened, or otherwise secured to one another. The tab portions  1605  can be disposed after, downstream from in direction of motion  1020 , or proximate to the end portion  1035  of the receiving unit  1010 . The tab portions  1605  of two adjacent, successive, parallel, or proximate channel walls  1520  can define at least a portion of the channel  1510 , such as the portion of the channel  1510  between the end portion  1035  of the receiving unit  1010  and the top surface  245  of the first conveyor unit  205  or the top surface  255  of the second conveyor unit  210 . This portion of the channel  1510  can position the produce  100  (e.g., received from the sizing unit  1005 ) on the top surface  1525  of the receiving unit  1010  and can guide the produce  100  within the channel  1510  in the direction of motion  1020 . This portion of the channel  1510  can be equal to, greater than, or less than a length (e.g., in the direction of motion  1020 ) of the receiving unit  1010 . The width of this portion of the channel  1510  can be between 1 and 10 inches. The tab portions  1605  can be spaced apart or separated from the end portion  1035  (e.g., from 0.25 to 5.0 inches) so that the tab portions  1605  do not contact the receiving unit  1010  during operation of the receiving unit  1010  in the direction of motion  1020 . 
     The extension portions  1610  can be disposed above the top surface  1525  of the receiving unit  1010 , and can be spaced apart or separated from the top surface  1525  (e.g., from 0.25 to 5.0 inches) so that the extension portions  1610  do not contact the receiving unit  1010  during operation of the receiving unit in the direction of motion  1020 . The extension portions  1610  of two adjacent, successive, parallel, or proximate channel walls  1520  can define at least a portion of the channel  1510 , such as the portion of the channel  1510  proximate to (e.g., above) the top portion  1525  of the receiving unit  1010  (e.g., between the top portion  1525  of the receiving unit and the sizing unit  1005 ). 
     The height  1615  (e.g., the vertical or drop distance in direction of motion  1705  between the end portion of the portion of the channel  1510  defined by the tab portions  1605 ) can vary. For example, the tab portions  1605  can extend substantially (e.g., within 10%) the vertical or drop distance  1615  between the end portion  1035  of the receiving unit  1010  and the top surface  245  of the first conveyor unit  205 . The tab portions  1605  can also extend through a smaller portion of this height  1615  (e.g., vertical or drop distance), such as less than 50% of this distance, or less than 25% of this distance. The height  1615  between the top surface  1525  and the top surface  245  can be at least five inches, measured from the end portion  1035  to the top surface  245 . The height  1615  (e.g., a height of the channel  1510  between the tab portions  1605 ) can be at least twice the length of the produce  100 . For example, to process a pepper having a length of 3 inches, the height  1615 , or the distance that the pepper falls in the direction of motion  1705  from the receiving unit  1010  to the de-stemming apparatus  200  can be at least six inches. In some implementations, the height  1615  is two to three times the length of the produce  100 . 
     The channel  1510  can guide the produce through the channel  1510  from release by the sizing unit  205  along the receiving unit  1010  in the direction of motion  1020  to at least one additional conveyor unit (e.g., of the de-stemming apparatus  200 ). For example, when the item of produce  100  is a pepper, the channel  1510  can guide the pepper in a tip first orientation along the receiving unit  1010 , e.g., between two extension portions  1610 . Upon conveyance past the end portion  1035  of the receiving unit  1010 , the channel  1510  can guide the pepper or other item of produce  100  as the produce  100  falls, within the channel  1510  (e.g., between two tab portions  1605  in the direction of motion  1705 ), from the receiving unit  1010  onto a component of the de-stemming apparatus  200 , such as the top surface  245  of the first conveyor unit  205 . During this free-fall of the produce  100 , e.g., through a portion of the channel  1510  between two tab portions  1605  in the direction of motion  1705  (e.g., height  1615 ), the produce  100  can flip 180 degrees. For example, a pepper  100  having a tip first orientation in the direction of motion  1020  in the channel  1510 , e.g., between adjacent extension portions  1610  as in the example of  FIG. 19  can flip 180 degrees when falling through the channel  1510 , e.g., between the tab portions  1605 , so that the tip of the pepper  100  points in the opposite direction when landing on the top surface  245  or the top surface  255 , relative to the direction the tip was pointing during conveyance on the receiving unit  1010 , as in the example of  FIG. 20 . 
     In some implementations, the produce can flip during this free fall in the absence of the tab portions  1605 . In one implementation, a roller or separate conveyor unit can be disposed proximate to the end portion  1035 . This roller can spin or move in the direction of motion  1020  at a speed faster than a conveying speed of the top surface  1525 . This can accelerate the produce  100  when it passes the end portion  1035 , facilitating the flip of the produce  100  during its fall through the height  1615 . 
     The tab portions  1605  need not cover the entire width of the first conveyor unit  205  or the second conveyor unit  210 . For example, the tab portions  1605  can extend past the end portion  1035  of the receiving unit  101  a distance that is less than the combined width of the first conveyor unit  205  and the second conveyor unit  210 , or a distance that is less than the width of the first conveyor unit  205 . The extension portions  1610  can have a length greater than, equal to, or less than a length of the receiving unit  1010 , e.g., from a few inches to several dozen feet or more. 
     The channel walls  1520  may but need not include both the tab portion  1605  and the extension portion  1610 . For example, the tab portions  1605  or the extension portions  1610  can be absent from the channel walls  1520 . The receiving unit  1010  can include at least one trough. For example, the produce receptacle  1025  can be formed as a longitudinal trough that can receive multiple items of the produce  100 , rather than an individual produce item receptacle. The trough can be a longitudinal trough along the direction of motion  1020  that includes a groove, conduit, depression, curved, or concave feature in the top surface  1525  of the receiving unit  1010  that receives the produce  100 , e.g., from the sizing unit  1005 . The trough can be aligned with at least a portion of the channel  1510  to receive or guide the produce  100 , or can be a substitute for the portion of the channel  1510  that would otherwise be disposed above the receiving unit  1010 . The receiving unit  1010  can define a plurality of troughs. Each trough can be aligned with at least a portion of one of the channels  1510  along a longitudinal axis of the receiving unit  1010 , e.g., in the direction of motion  1020 . The trough can include at least one retaining wall defining at least part of a space where the produce  100  can be disposed. For example, the retaining walls can be ridges or elevated portions of the top surface  1525  that complement or replace the extension portions  1610  to receive the produce  100 , e.g., between successive or adjacent retaining walls. In some implementations, the extension portions  1610  can be separated from the top surface  1525  of the receiving unit, whereas the retaining walls can be an integral part of the top surface  1525 . Both the extension portions  1610  and the retaining walls  1610  can operate to guide the produce  100  in the direction of motion  1020 . 
     In some implementations, at least one channel  1510  guides the produce  100  to directly enter the de-stemming apparatus  200  at the pivot point  270  with the produce positioned for separation, reducing the length of or eliminating the first conveyor unit  205  and the second conveyor unit  210 . For example, the portion of the channel  1510  between the tab portions  1605  can be shaped to position the produce  100  at the entrance area (e.g., within 2 feet of, or within 1 foot of) the pivot point  270 . This portion of the channel  1510  may also include a ramp or blocking element to position the produce  100 . 
     The receiving unit  1010  can receive the produce  100  from the sizing unit  1005 . For example, the sizing unit  1005  can convey the produce  100  in the direction of motion  1015  at a first speed (e.g., between 0.1 and 4.0 feet per second) where the produce  100  eventually drops between successive rollers  1105  through the opening  1030  onto the top surface  1525  of the receiving unit  1010 . The top surface  1525  (e.g., a conveyor belt) of the receiving unit  1010  can convey the received produce  100  at a second speed (e.g., between 0.1 and 4.0 feet per second) in the direction of motion  1020 . The second speed can be greater than the first speed. For example, the sizing unit  1005  can operate to drop the produce  100  (e.g., a pepper) in a tip first orientation onto the receiving unit  1010 . When the receiving unit  1010  operates at a greater speed than the sizing unit  1005 , the top surface  1525  of the receiving unit  1010  can contact the tip of the produce and direct the tip in the direction of motion  1020 , so that the produce  100  falls onto the top surface  1525  in a tip first orientation aligned in the direction of motion  1020 , as in the example of  FIG. 19 . 
     The alignment element  1040  can include at least one brush  1805  and at least one driving unit  235 . Any driving unit  235  can drive or rotate the brush  1805  through mechanical coupling (e.g., in the direction  1810  from the foreground into the background in the example of  FIG. 18 ) to guide or position the produce  100  into position for the application of a separation force by at least one of the conveyor units of the de-stemming apparatus  200 . The alignment element  1040  can be disposed above (e.g., proximate to) the top surface  245  of the first conveyor unit  205 , as in the example of  FIG. 18 , among others. The alignment element  1040  can include at least one blocker element  1815  such as a plate to position the produce  100 . 
     During conveyance of the produce  100  in the direction of motion  227  the brush  1805  (or other alignment element) can move the produce  100 , for example to position part or a majority of the first portion  105  of the produce  100  (e.g., the pod) on the first conveyor unit  205  or to position at least a part of the second portion  110  of the produce  100  (e.g., the stem) on or over the second conveyor unit  210 . The alignment element  1040  can include a frame or structural element  1820 . At least part of the frame  1820  can contact the produce  100  to properly position the produce  100 . In one implementation, in addition to or instead of the brush  1805 , the alignment element can include walls or bars that can be driven by at least one driving unit  35  to sweep forward (e.g., into the foreground from the example perspective of  FIG. 15 , among others, perpendicular to the direction of motion  227 ) to push the produce  100  into a position for de-stemming or other separation. 
     The alignment element can be disposed above the first conveyor unit  205  or the second conveyor unit  210  downstream, in the direction of motion  227 , from the supplemental conveyor unit  1505 , e.g., between the supplemental conveyor unit  1505  and the third conveyor unit  215  or the fourth conveyor unit  220 . The alignment element  1040  can include stationary rollers (e.g., free standing or driven by at least one driving unit  235 ) to hold the produce down at least in part on the top surface  245  while the produce  100  is pushed from the tip end toward a proper location, e.g., for stem or calyx separation. The brushes  1805  can be driven to move the produce  100  by applying a force to the produce  100  tangential to the direction of motion  227 . The axes of the brushes  1805  (or rollers that may be used instead of the brushes  1805 ) can be parallel (e.g., +/−10%) to the direction of motion  227 . 
     In addition or as an alternative to the brush  1805 , the alignment element  1040  can include at least one roller, free standing or driven by at least one driving unit  235 . For example, the rollers can be oriented in the same position as the brush, e.g., perpendicular to the direction of motion  227 . The produce  100  can contact the rollers (or the brush  1805 ) to be moved or guided into position for separation of the first portion  105  of the produce  100  from the second portion  110 . 
       FIG. 21  depicts a method  2100  of processing the produce  100 . The method  2100  can receive at least one item of produce (ACT  2105 ). For example, during operation of a produce processing apparatus, the receiving unit  1010  can receive the produce  100  (ACT  2105 ) from the sizing unit  1005 , or from another input such as a funnel, conveyor, ramp, or human worker manually placing the produce  100  on the top surface  1525  of the receiving unit  1010 . The method  2100  can include conveying the produce  100  (ACT  2110 ). For example, the receiving unit  1010  can convey at least one item of produce  100  in the direction of motion  1020  (ACT  2110 ) on the top surface  1525  of the receiving unit  1010 . 
     The method  2100  can include receiving the item of produce  100  (ACT  2115 ). For example at least one item of the produce  100  can be received (ACT  2115 ) within at least one channel  1510  defined by at least two channel walls  1520 . The method  2100  can include depositing the produce  100  (ACT  2120 ). For example, via the channel  1510  at least one item of the produce  100  can be deposited onto the first conveyor unit  205 , which can convey the produce  100  in a direction (ACT  2120 ) different than the direction of conveyance by the receiving unit  1010 . The conveyance of the deposited item of produce  100  can bring the produce  100  into contact with one or more conveyor units of the de-stemming apparatus  200  to generate a separation force that separates the first portion  105  of the produce  100  from the second portion  110  of the produce  100 . 
     With reference to  FIGS. 1-21 , in some implementations the produce processing system  1000  (e.g., an apparatus) can include at least some elements of the sizing unit  1005 , the receiving unit  1010 , and the de-stemming apparatus  200 . The sizing unit  1005  can include at least two rollers  1105  that can convey the produce  100  in the direction of motion  1015 . The sizing unit  1005  can release the produce in the aligned position  1210  (e.g., vertically or within +/−10% of vertical) along a longitudinal axis of the produce  100  from the lateral distance  1120  between the two rollers  1105 , during conveyance of the produce  100  in the direction of motion  1015 . Some or all components of  FIGS. 1-21  can be included as part of an apparatus for processing produce. 
     The receiving unit  1010  can receive the produce  100  in a cavity of the produce receptacle  1025 , for example when the produce receptacle  1025  is conveyed in the direction of motion  1020 , which can be substantially (e.g., +/−10%) perpendicular to the direction of motion  1015 . The first conveyor unit  205  can receive the produce from the produce receptacle  1025  either directly or via an intervening supplemental conveyor unit. The first conveyor unit  205  can convey the produce in the direction of motion  227  to engage the produce with at least one additional conveyor unit (e.g., the second conveyor unit  210 , the third conveyor unit  215 , or the fourth conveyor unit  220 ) to generate a separation force on the produce  100  that can at least partially separate the first portion  105  of the produce (e.g., the pod  115 ) from the second portion  110  of the produce (e.g., the step  120  or the calyx  125 ). In some implementations, the direction of motion  227  can be substantially parallel (e.g., +/−10 degrees) with the direction of motion  1015 , or substantially perpendicular (e.g., +/−10 degrees) with the direction of motion  220 . 
     The de-stemming apparatus  200  of the produce processing system  1000  need not be substantially horizontal as depicted in  FIG. 2 ,  FIG. 10 , and  FIG. 15 , among others. For example, the de-stemming apparatus  200  can be arranged vertically, with the produce  100  driven at least in part by gravitational force into engagement with at least one conveyor unit that generates all or part of the separation force. In a vertical or other non-horizontal configuration, (e.g., 30, 45, or 60 degrees from horizontal with reference to the top surface  245  or the top surface  255 ) the conveyor units  205 ,  210 ,  215 ,  220  can have varying lengths and widths, for example to accommodate space restrictions such as the height of the de-stemming apparatus  200  from the ground. 
     The operations described in this specification can be implemented as operations performed by a data processing apparatus on data stored on one or more computer-readable storage devices or received from other sources. For example, the driving unit  235  or any other driving unit can include or be controlled by control circuitry (e.g., at least one processor or application specific integrated circuit) that operates the driving unit to move at least one of the first to fourth conveyor units  205  to  220  or any other conveyor unit. At least one local computing device electrically connected (wired or wirelessly) with at least one of the driving units  235  or a remote computing device connected via the internet, local, wide, or other area network to at least one of the driving units  235  can control operation of the driving units  235  and the components directly or indirectly driven by the driving units  235 . 
     Features that are described herein in the context of separate implementations can also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment or implementation. Features that are described in the context of a single implementation can also be implemented in multiple implementations separately or in various sub-combinations. Moreover, although features may be described above as acting in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such, one or more features from a claimed combination can in some cases be excised from the combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a sub combination or variation of a sub combination. 
     Similarly, acts depicted in the drawings or described do not require performance in the particular order shown or in sequential order, and all illustrated or described acts need not be performed. Actions recited in the claims can be performed in a different order. Any method or processes depicted in the figures need not require the particular order shown, or sequential order, to achieve desirable results. 
     Having now described some illustrative implementations, it is apparent that the foregoing is illustrative and not limiting, having been presented by way of example. In particular, although many of the examples presented herein involve specific combinations of method acts or system elements, those acts and those elements may be combined in other ways to accomplish the same objectives. Acts, elements and features discussed in connection with one implementation are not intended to be excluded from a similar role in other implementations or implementations. 
     The phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including” “comprising” “having” “containing” “involving” “characterized by” “characterized in that” and variations thereof herein, is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter, equivalents thereof, and additional items, as well as alternate implementations consisting of the items listed thereafter exclusively. In one implementation, the systems and methods described herein consist of one, each combination of more than one, or all of the described elements, acts, or components. 
     Any references to implementations or elements or acts of the systems and methods herein referred to in the singular may also embrace implementations including a plurality of these elements, and any references in plural to any implementation or element or act herein may also embrace implementations including only a single element. References in the singular or plural form are not intended to limit the presently disclosed systems or methods, their components, acts, or elements to single or plural configurations. References to any act or element being based on any information, act or element may include implementations where the act or element is based at least in part on any information, act, or element. 
     Any implementation disclosed herein may be combined with any other implementation or embodiment, and references to “an implementation,” “some implementation,” “an alternate implementation,” “various implementation,” “one implementation” or the like are not necessarily mutually exclusive and are intended to indicate that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the implementation may be included in at least one implementation or embodiment. Such terms as used herein are not necessarily all referring to the same implementation. Any implementation may be combined with any other implementation, inclusively or exclusively, in any manner consistent with the aspects and implementations disclosed herein. 
     References to “or” may be construed as inclusive so that any terms described using “or” may indicate any of a single, more than one, and all of the described terms. 
     Where technical features in the drawings, detailed description or any claim are followed by reference signs, the reference signs have been included for the sole purpose of increasing the intelligibility of the drawings, detailed description, and claims. Accordingly, neither the reference signs nor their absence have any limiting effect on the scope of any claim elements. 
     The systems and methods described herein may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the characteristics thereof. For example, specific references to a pod can include generic references to any first or generally edible portions of produce, and specific references to any stem or calyx include generic references to any second or generally uneaten portions of produce. Generic references to a first portion of produce include references to generally edible portions such as a pod or body, and generic references to a second portion of produce include references to generally uneaten portions such as a stem or calyx. Further, while not labeled in every Figure for clarity and ease of description, elements present and labeled in one Figure may be present and unlabeled in other Figures. For example, at least some of the conveyor belts  605 ,  610 ,  615 ,  620  labeled in  FIG. 6  are present in other Figures, e.g.,  FIG. 2-7, 10 , or  13 . Further, while referred to as a de-stemming apparatus, the de-stemming apparatus  200  can remove portions of items of produce other than stems, such as leaves, branches, or other support structures or appendages of an item of produce. 
     The foregoing implementations are illustrative rather than limiting of the described systems and methods. For example, at least some of the directions of motion need not be substantially parallel or perpendicular relative to each other as discussed herein. For example, the direction of motion  1020  need not be substantially perpendicular to the direction of motion  1015  or the direction of motion  227 , and the direction of motion  1015  need not be substantially parallel to the direction of motion  227 . These directions of motions can convey the produce  100  in any direction between zero and 180 degrees relative to any other identified direction of motion. Further relative parallel, perpendicular, vertical or other positioning or orientation descriptions include variations within +/−10% or +/−10 degrees of pure vertical, parallel or perpendicular positioning. Scope of the systems and methods described herein is thus indicated by the appended claims, rather than the foregoing description, and changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are embraced therein.