Abstract: A flexible band is tensioned between fingers, capable of gripping together, of a gripper. In the bunching of plant stems, the band is held in an opening between fingers of the gripper behind a pair of rollers. The plant stems are carried along between the pair of rollers and received in the flexible band. After a bunch has thus been gathered, the ends of the fingers are brought towards each other, and the stems in the gripper are moved away from the rollers. Subsequently, the stems are tied together.

Abstract: A flexible band is tensioned between fingers, capable of gripping together, of a gripper. In the bunching of plant stems, the band is held in an opening between fingers of the gripper behind a pair of rollers. The plant stems are carried along between the pair of rollers and received in the flexible band. After a bunch has thus been gathered, the ends of the fingers are brought towards each other, and the stems in the gripper are moved away from the rollers. Subsequently, the stems are tied together.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an orientation mechanism for orienting objects having a bigger convex portion and a smaller projecting portion, such as mushrooms, pears, onions, flower bulbs and the like. The mechanism is provided with an endless conveying member having a plurality of hourglass-shaped rollers arranged transversely of the conveying direction. The rollers are rotatable and spaced apart a specific distance from one another. Tilting belts and upright elements are also located parallel to the conveying member such that the convex portion of the convex portion of the objects to be oriented will be prevented from coming between the rollers. Separate rope carriers are presented parallel to the conveying member for supporting the objects.