Abstract: A crop harvesting machine configured to separate crop, particularly pomegranates, from a tree by straddling the tree as the machine moves along a row of trees. The machine has an inverted u-shaped main frame that supports a sub-frame that defines a harvesting area configured to receive the canopy of a tree therein. A motor supported by the main frame propels the machine along the row of trees. A pair of picking assemblies supported by the sub-frame each comprise a crop separating mechanism having a plurality of rods configured to engage the tree canopy and separate the crop from the tree, a motion inducing mechanism to impart a short duration, snap-like whipping motion to the rods and a canopy engaging mechanism to move the rods in and out of the canopy. An operator area allows the operator to drive the machine along the row of trees and operate the various mechanisms.

Abstract: A crop harvesting machine configured to separate crop, particularly pomegranates, from a tree by straddling the tree as the machine moves along a row of trees. The machine has an inverted u-shaped main frame that supports a sub-frame that defines a harvesting area configured to receive the canopy of a tree therein. A motor supported by the main frame propels the machine along the row of trees. A pair of picking assemblies supported by the sub-frame each comprise a crop separating mechanism having a plurality of rods configured to engage the tree canopy and separate the crop from the tree, a motion inducing mechanism to impart a short duration, snap-like whipping motion to the rods and a canopy engaging mechanism to move the rods in and out of the canopy. An operator area allows the operator to drive the machine along the row of trees and operate the various mechanisms.

Abstract: A mechanical harvester and harvesting method for harvesting crops grown on an overhead trellis system including a harvester frame having a top portion and opposing sides forming an open frame to allow crop bins or gondolas to pass under the top portion and through the harvester so that the harvester can continuously harvest an entire row of crops. The top portion of the harvester has crop separating mechanisms to dislodge the crop from the overhead plant canopy. The crop falls downward onto a conveyor belt assembly that transports the crop to the front of the harvester where it is deposited onto a pair of cross conveyor belts that conveys it to a central opening for depositing into the bin. A fan is utilized to blow air across the crop material to separate any plant debris from the crop prior to depositing the crop into the bin.

Abstract: A mechanical harvester and harvesting method for harvesting crops grown on an overhead trellis system including a harvester frame having a top portion and opposing sides forming an open frame to allow crop bins or gondolas to pass under the top portion and through the harvester so that the harvester can continuously harvest an entire row of crops. The top portion of the harvester has crop separating mechanisms to dislodge the crop from the overhead plant canopy. The crop falls downward onto a conveyor belt assembly that transports the crop to the front of the harvester where it is deposited onto a pair of cross conveyor belts that conveys it to a central opening for depositing into the bin. A fan is utilized to blow air across the crop material to separate any plant debris from the crop prior to depositing the crop into the bin.

Abstract: An apparatus having a frame with a work station therein and adapted for movement relative to a work object having elongated overhanging portions, a pair of rearwardly inclined elongated members mounted for rotational movement on the frame in spaced relation defining a path of travel for the work object therebetween and into the work station of the frame, and a drive mechanism adapted to rotate the members to carry the overhanging portions of the work object over the members to raise the portions along the inclined members to elevated positions during passage of the work object through the work station for the performance of a work operation in the work station.