Abstract: A self-propelled climbing apparatus for performing a maintenance operation on a palm tree comprises a climbing section that moves up and down the tree and a maintenance section that performs the desired operation. The climbing section has a main support frame with climbing mechanisms attached thereto. The climbing mechanism has upper and lower wheels that engage the trunk and are operated by a drive mechanism that rotates the wheels. Springs pull the upper and lower wheels toward each other to maintain their engagement with the trunk. The maintenance section rotatably and detachably mounts to a head support rail supported above the climbing section. In one embodiment, the maintenance section is a cutting head having a cutting mechanism at the upper end of a pivoting cutting arm to cut wrapping and/or fronds from the trunk. A tent assembly directs debris directly downward to prevent injury or damage and ease cleanup.

Abstract: A self-propelled climbing apparatus for performing a maintenance operation on a palm tree comprises a climbing section that moves up and down the tree and a maintenance section that performs the desired operation. The climbing section has a main support frame with climbing mechanisms attached thereto. The climbing mechanism has upper and lower wheels that engage the trunk and are operated by a drive mechanism that rotates the wheels. Springs pull the upper and lower wheels toward each other to maintain their engagement with the trunk. The maintenance section rotatably and detachably mounts to a head support rail supported above the climbing section. In one embodiment, the maintenance section is a cutting head having a cutting mechanism at the upper end of a pivoting cutting arm to cut wrapping and/or fronds from the trunk. A tent assembly directs debris directly downward to prevent injury or damage and ease cleanup.