Abstract: As fruit (preferably apples) are harvested, the fruit is placed on a conveyor that conveys the fruit to a fruit singulating section. In the singulating section, the fruit is directed into slots in a lane formed by two cooperating helical drives. The helical drives rotate the fruit and convey the fruit into an imaging chamber where a camera acquires an image of the fruit. The fruit image is evaluated by a processor in communication with the camera. The fruit is then directed into a rotary sorter which sorts the fruit based on the image evaluation by the processor.

Abstract: As fruit (preferably apples) are harvested, the fruit is placed on a conveyor that conveys the fruit to a fruit singulating section. In the singulating section, the fruit is directed into slots in a lane formed by two cooperating helical drives. The helical drives rotate the fruit and convey the fruit into an imaging chamber where a camera acquires an image of the fruit. The fruit image is evaluated by a processor in communication with the camera. The fruit is then directed into a rotary sorter which sorts the fruit based on the image evaluation by the processor.

Abstract: A spray unit and process for controlled droplet atomization for use particularly in an orchard, wherein air is urged under pressure in substantially opposite directions in response to the actuation of dual, counter-rotating fans. The fans are, in one embodiment, driven by a motor that is coupled to the fans by a serpentine belt. The flowing air receives droplets of material to be substantially atomized from one or more motor-powered atomizers. The spray unit is easily retrofitted to be installed on a convention sprayer cart or tractor-pulled trailer.