Abstract: The present invention concerns a new system for collecting fruit from trees. The fruit is thrown down by compression and decompression of the branches. Because the branches are flexible, the compression induces a uniform and homogenous contracting thereof. The decompression makes the branches return to their original positions and the fruit is released by inertia. The compression is obtained by beating strongly on consecutive sections of the peripheral branches, using soft surfaces fixed on rigid sections framing them. The above-mentioned fixed sections operate manually with the help of springs and ropes or mechanically with appropriate means. In this new system no part of the tree--fruit included--is submitted to strains causing serious damage.

Abstract: An apparatus for harvesting fruit from trees has an arch-shaped structure includes a plurality of interconnecting tubes. The structure surrounds two sides and the top of the tree from which fruit is to be harvested. Cables are attached to the structure and are connected together at handles on either side of the structure. Alternate pulling of the handles by operators make the cables and the structure come in contact with the tree, and through this contact and subsequent vibration the fruit falls from the tree. The fruit is prevented from flying out of the immediate area of the structure by protection panels mounted on the outside of the structure. Drop panels surround the tree trunk for catching the fallen fruit. At least one cable is attached to the drop panel via the structure to one of the handles so that the manipulation of the handles lifts the drop panels and directs the fallen fruit toward discharge areas in the drop panels.