Rotating Hedge Pruning Arm for Variable Olive Tree Growth
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for hedging olive trees in Super High Density plantings are inadequate as they cannot accommodate unique tree growth and pruning needs, leading to inconsistent pruning and potential over or under-pruning, which affects grove health and production.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for hedge pruning that includes a blade assembly with a cutting arm capable of rotating about a pivot point, allowing for individualized pruning of trees by adjusting the length and angle of the cutting arm, and using a mobile platform to position the system for precise pruning, enabling customized pruning based on the specific shape and size of each tree.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If linear hedging is performed down the full length of a row using a straight saw, then automation is achieved and pruning efficiency is improved, but all trees in the row are cut by the same amount which causes some trees to be pruned too much and others too little
Solution Approach 1:
The blade assembly is divided into multiple independently controllable cutting units (first blade unit, second blade unit, third blade unit) positioned at different locations along the row. Each unit can be independently activated or deactivated based on the specific pruning needs of individual trees, allowing precise control over which trees receive pruning and how much they are pruned, while maintaining automated operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs a movable platform that can translate along the row and a blade assembly with adjustable positioning mechanisms. The cutting arm can be positioned at different distances from the row centerline, and individual blade units can be selectively engaged, enabling the system to adapt its pruning action to match the varying growth patterns and requirements of different trees within the same row.
2Ease of operation
If uniform pruning is applied to all trees in a row, then operational simplicity is maintained and automation is facilitated, but the unique growth patterns and alternate bearing nature of olive trees cannot be accommodated
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements differential pruning by allowing selective activation of individual blade units based on local tree characteristics. The controller can identify which trees require pruning and which do not, and activate only the appropriate blade units accordingly. This enables each tree to receive customized pruning treatment matched to its specific growth pattern, health status, and production requirements, rather than applying uniform pruning across the entire row.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors and controllers that monitor tree characteristics and pruning needs in real-time. Based on this feedback information about individual tree growth patterns, health status, and production cycles (including alternate bearing patterns), the controller automatically adjusts which blade units are activated and to what extent, enabling the system to adapt to varying tree requirements while maintaining automated operation.
Data Source
AI summary
System for hedge pruning and method for making and using the same. An exemplary system for hedge pruning includes a mounting assembly for connecting to a mobile platform, the mounting assembly defining a pivot point region thereon, a cutting arm rotatably coupled to the mounting assembly at the pivot point region. And a blade assembly connected to an end region of the cutting arm such that the blade assembly prunes a hedge along an arc defined based upon rotation of the cutting arm about the pivot point region. Advantageously, the system provides an ability to discriminate selected plants in a hedge to improve grove health and exploit alternate bearing nature of certain groves, resulting in a more consistent production each year. Differentiated treatment can be provided within a row of the plants while pruning the hedges in an automated manner that is more efficient than manual pruning.