Apple sapling branch angle opening device

By designing a W-shaped branch puller combined with a silicone hose to open the branch angle of apple saplings, the problems of low efficiency and poor applicability of existing branch pulling methods have been solved, achieving efficient and low-cost branch management and improving the growth quality and economic benefits of apple saplings.

CN223958103UActive Publication Date: 2026-03-03AGRI SCI RES INST OF GANZI TIBETAN AUTONOMOUS PREFECTURE
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-02-26
Publication Date
2026-03-03

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing methods for pulling branches on young apple trees suffer from low efficiency, high labor costs, easy tool damage, and poor applicability. In particular, traditional branch pulling tools are not user-friendly for those with less strength.

Method used

Design a device for adjusting the branch opening angle of apple saplings. Use a W-shaped branch puller made of No. 45 steel and a silicone hose to adjust the branch opening angle and ensure smooth growth within the range of 90° to 100°.

Benefits of technology

It improved the efficiency of branch pulling, reduced the need for manpower, protected the health of branches, extended the life of tools, reduced costs, and improved the growth quality and yield of young apple trees.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The utility model relates to the technical field of fruit tree pruning, and provides an apple sapling branch opening angle device which comprises a branch pulling device and two silica gel hoses, the silica gel hoses are fixedly connected to the two sides of the branch pulling device, the whole branch pulling device is in a W shape, the branch pulling device is made of 45 # steel, the length of the branch pulling device is 180.0 mm, the diameter of the branch pulling device is 2.2 mm, the color of the branch pulling device is light gray, and the length of the branch pulling device is 180.0 mm. The length of the silica gel hose is 15.0 mm, the inner diameter of the silica gel hose is 2.2 mm, the outer diameter of the silica gel hose is 3.2 mm, the wall thickness of the silica gel hose is 0.5 mm, and the silica gel hose is firmly arranged in the middle of the two ends of the branch drawing device in a sleeving mode and used for reducing damage of exposed steel wires to branches; the device is made of hot-dip galvanized stainless steel wires, is excellent in material, has better tensile strength and corrosion resistance, ensures the firmness and durability of the branch drawing device when the branch drawing device is used in the open field, can bear various weather conditions and is not easy to damage, and the service life is prolonged.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of fruit tree pruning technology, specifically a device for the opening angle of apple sapling branches. Background Technology

[0002] As my country's largest deciduous fruit tree, the apple is not only an important economic crop but also plays a crucial role in the development of my country's agricultural industry, increasing the income of fruit farmers, and rural revitalization. In recent years, the intensive and efficient cultivation technology of apple dwarf rootstocks has gradually become the mainstream trend in the global apple industry and has been widely applied around the world. Most newly established apple orchards in my country also adopt this technology, one of its core elements being high spindle-shaped training and drooping branch pruning techniques.

[0003] In the process of achieving high spindle-shaped shaping and drooping branch pruning, opening the branch angle is a crucial step. Traditional methods for opening the branch angle of young apple trees include various techniques such as branch pulling, branch bending, branch pressing, shoot twisting, branch propping, and branch bending. However, branch pulling has become the most important and widely used method due to its significant effect and relatively simple operation.

[0004] However, current methods for training apple saplings mainly utilize tools such as training ropes and training tools. While training ropes are readily available and inexpensive, they suffer from slow training speeds, high labor costs, and the risk of branches breaking if not untied promptly. On the other hand, although "S"-shaped, "M"-shaped, and improved angle-opening tools offer improvements in training speed and cost, "S"-shaped and "M"-shaped tools require bending to adjust branch angles in practice. However, these tools are often too stiff and difficult to bend, especially for users with less strength, such as women. Improved angle-opening tools, while eliminating the need for bending, have limited suitable training positions on the main trunk of the apple tree, and the large number of branches that need training per tree results in relatively low training efficiency.

[0005] To address this issue, those skilled in the art have proposed a device for controlling the opening angle of apple sapling branches. Utility Model Content

[0006] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this utility model provides a device for adjusting the opening angle of apple sapling branches, thereby overcoming the shortcomings of existing branch-pulling methods in terms of efficiency and practicality.

[0007] A device for adjusting the opening angle of apple sapling branches includes a branch puller and a silicone hose. The silicone hose is fixedly connected to both sides of the branch puller, and the branch puller is W-shaped in general.

[0008] Preferably, the branch puller is made of No. 45 steel, with a length of 180.0 mm, a diameter of 2.2 mm, and a light gray color, and has good tensile strength and corrosion resistance.

[0009] Preferably, the silicone hose has a length of 15.0 mm, an inner diameter of 2.2 mm, an outer diameter of 3.2 mm, and a wall thickness of 0.5 mm. It is securely fitted into the middle of both ends of the branch puller to reduce damage to the branches caused by the exposed steel wire.

[0010] Preferably, when the branch puller and silicone hose are used to open the branch angle of apple saplings, the two ends of the hose are pressed against the back of the branch, the middle part is stuck under the back of the branch, and the opening angle of the branch is kept at 90° to 100° by adjusting the bending angle and position of the branch puller.

[0011] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following beneficial effects:

[0012] 1. This device is made of hot-dip galvanized stainless steel wire, which is of excellent quality and has good tensile strength and corrosion resistance. This ensures the sturdiness and durability of the branch puller when used in the open field. It can withstand various climatic conditions without being easily damaged, thus extending its service life.

[0013] 2. The stainless steel wire has a diameter of 2.2mm. This suitable thickness allows the branch puller to maintain sufficient strength while being easy to bend, thus reducing manpower requirements and improving branch pulling efficiency. Users can easily adjust the bending angle and position of the branch puller according to the specific condition of the branches to achieve the ideal branch pulling effect.

[0014] 3. The device is designed in a "W" shape, which allows the branches to be in a horizontal to slightly drooping state, avoiding undesirable shapes such as "bow" shape. This promotes uniform growth of the branches and light reception, thereby improving the growth quality and yield of young apple trees.

[0015] 4. The device is fixed with black silicone hoses at both ends, which effectively reduces the direct friction of the exposed stainless steel wires on the branches and the potential damage to the branches caused by the high temperature caused by the sun, protecting the integrity of the branches and promoting their healthy growth.

[0016] 5. This device can be reused multiple times, which not only reduces the cost of purchasing new branch-pulling tools but also reduces waste caused by tool damage. Furthermore, the increased efficiency of branch pulling indirectly reduces labor and time costs, bringing greater economic benefits to fruit farmers. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1 This is a front view structural diagram of the present utility model;

[0018] Figure 2 This utility model Figure 1 A three-dimensional structural diagram of a silicone flexible tube.

[0019] In the picture: 1. Branch puller; 2. Silicone hose. Detailed Implementation

[0020] The embodiments of this utility model will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples. The following examples are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this utility model.

[0021] As attached Figure 1 To be continued Figure 2 As shown:

[0022] Example 1: This utility model provides a device for adjusting the opening angle of apple sapling branches, including a branch puller 1 and a silicone hose 2. The silicone hose 2 is fixedly connected to both sides of the branch puller 1. The branch puller 1 is W-shaped, made of 45# steel, 180.0mm long, 2.2mm in diameter, and light gray in color, with good tensile strength and corrosion resistance. The silicone hose 2 is 15.0mm long, 2.2mm in inner diameter, 3.2mm in outer diameter, and 0.5mm in wall thickness. It is securely fitted into the middle of both ends of the branch puller 1 to reduce damage to the branches from exposed steel wires. When the branch puller 1 and silicone hose 2 are used to adjust the opening angle of apple sapling branches, the two ends are pressed against the back of the branch, and the middle part is held under the back of the branch. By adjusting the bending angle and position of the branch puller, the opening angle of the branch is maintained between 90° and 100°.

[0023] Example 1: Newly sprouted main branches on the trunk of a newly planted sapling:

[0024] Preliminary preparation: Before the newly planted apple saplings sprout, use a bud-notching saw or apply a branching agent to promote the sprouting of buds on the main trunk of the sapling.

[0025] Branch pulling operation: When the main branches on the trunk grow to about 30cm, select the branch pulling tool of this device to pull the branches. Press both ends of the branch pulling tool on the back of the main branch, and wedge the middle part under the back of the main branch. By manually adjusting the bending angle and position of the branch pulling tool, the opening angle of the main branch reaches 90° to 100°, ensuring that the main branch is horizontal to slightly drooping and smoothly straight, avoiding the formation of an "arch" shape.

[0026] Continuous management: As the main branches extend and grow, the branch-pulling points need to be checked and updated regularly to keep the opening angle of the main branches within a suitable range. Usually, after about 30 days of using the branch puller, the angle of the main branches will be basically formed. At this time, the branch puller can be removed from the main branches and properly stored for future use.

[0027] Example 2: Lateral branches sprouting from the main branches of newly planted saplings:

[0028] Lateral branch growth: In apple orchards with intensive cultivation on dwarf rootstocks, when lateral branches sprout from the main branches of newly planted saplings and grow to about 30cm, it is time to prepare for lateral branch training.

[0029] Branch pulling operation: Similar to the main branch pulling, press both ends of the branch pulling tool on the back of the side branch, and wedge the middle part under the back of the side branch. By adjusting the bending angle and position of the branch pulling tool, the opening angle of the side branch can reach 90° to 100°, ensuring that the side branch is also horizontal to slightly drooping and smoothly straight.

[0030] Subsequent management: As the lateral branches continue to grow, the branch-pulling points need to be updated in a timely manner to maintain the opening angle of the lateral branches. After about 30 days of use, the angle of the lateral branches will be basically stable, at which point the branch-pulling device can be removed and stored.

[0031] Example 3: Existing main branches on the trunk of a newly planted sapling:

[0032] Main branch adjustment: In intensive apple orchards with dwarf rootstocks, this device can also be used to adjust the opening angle of existing main branches on the trunks of newly planted saplings.

[0033] Specific operation: Press both ends of the branch puller onto the back of the main branch, and wedge the middle part under the back of the main branch. By finely adjusting the bending angle and position of the branch puller, the opening angle of the main branch can reach the ideal range of 90° to 100°.

[0034] Continuous monitoring: During the growth of the main branch, it is necessary to continuously monitor the changes in its opening angle and update the branch pulling position in a timely manner to ensure that the main branch remains in a smooth and straight state. After about 30 days of use, if the angle of the main branch has stabilized and taken shape, it can be removed and properly stored for future use.

[0035] All standard parts used in this invention can be purchased from the market, and irregularly shaped parts can be customized according to the description and drawings. The specific connection methods for each part all employ conventional methods such as bolts, rivets, and welding, which are mature technologies in the prior art. The machinery, parts, and equipment all use conventional models in the prior art, and the circuit connections also use conventional connection methods in the prior art, which will not be detailed here. Any content not described in detail in this specification belongs to the prior art known to those skilled in the art.

[0036] In the description of this utility model, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. "A plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0037] In this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model according to the specific circumstances.

[0038] In this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0039] In the description of this specification, the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0040] The accompanying drawings of the embodiments disclosed in this utility model only involve the structures involved in the embodiments disclosed in this utility model. Other structures can refer to the general design. In the absence of conflict, the same embodiment and different embodiments of this utility model can be combined with each other.

[0041] Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art can still modify the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments or make equivalent substitutions for some of the technical features. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A device for determining the opening angle of apple sapling branches, characterized in that: Includes a branch puller (1) and a silicone hose (2). The silicone hose (2) is fixedly connected to both sides of the branch puller (1). The branch puller (1) is W-shaped. The branch puller (1) is made of No. 45 steel, with a length of 180.0 mm, a diameter of 2.2 mm, and a light gray color. It has good tensile strength and corrosion resistance. The silicone hose (2) has a length of 15.0 mm, an inner diameter of 2.2 mm, an outer diameter of 3.2 mm, and a wall thickness of 0.5 mm. It is firmly fitted into the middle of both ends of the branch puller (1) to reduce the damage of exposed steel wire to the branches. When the branch puller (1) and the silicone hose (2) are used to open the branches of apple saplings, the two ends are pressed against the back of the branches, and the middle part is stuck under the back of the branches. By adjusting the bending angle and position of the branch puller, the opening angle of the branches is kept at 90°~100°.