Tractor-Mounted Platform for Orchard Pruning and Harvesting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current solutions for orchard maintenance, such as elevated mobile platforms and single extension booms, are inefficient and costly, as they require multiple equipment pieces, lack stability, and do not allow simultaneous pruning of both sides of tree rows, and harvesting processes are laborious and damage-prone due to frequent ladder use.
Innovation Solution
A tractor-mounted working platform system with removably attached platforms that allow horizontal movement and control of the tractor, enabling efficient access to trees for pruning and harvesting, featuring a bin system for collecting fruit with conveyor mechanisms to reduce labor and damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional ladders are used for pruning, then workers can access trees, but the process is laborious and time-consuming due to frequent climbing and moving
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a mobile aerial platform that can dynamically reposition itself along tree rows through tractor-mounted movement, eliminating the need for workers to climb ladders and move manually between trees. The platform's mobility allows continuous access to trees at various positions along the row.
Solution Approach 2:
The aerial platform is designed to perform multiple functions: it can accommodate workers for pruning, harvesting, and trellis work; it can be positioned for different tree sizes and row configurations; and it integrates with tractor operations to provide versatile orchard maintenance capabilities in a single device.
2Ease of operation
If dedicated mobile pruning platforms are used, then access to trees is improved, but equipment costs increase due to requiring separate dedicated machines
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the aerial platform functionality with existing tractor operations, merging tree maintenance functions (pruning, harvesting, trellis work) into a single integrated system. The platform attaches to the tractor's three-point hitch, eliminating the need for separate dedicated pruning machines while maintaining ease of tree access.
3Ease of operation
If single extension boom platforms are used, then some tree access is provided, but stability is compromised and simultaneous pruning of both sides is not enabled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the platform system into multiple independent sections or modules that can be positioned at different locations along the tree row. This segmentation allows workers to access both sides of tree rows simultaneously while maintaining stability through the tractor-mounted support structure and adjustable positioning capabilities.
4Productivity
If workers use ladders for harvesting, then fruit collection is possible, but fruit damage increases due to jostling and workers must travel long distances
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile platform provides dynamic positioning that keeps workers at optimal heights and distances from trees during harvesting, eliminating the need to climb ladders and reducing fruit damage from jostling. The platform's ability to move smoothly along tree rows allows workers to access fruit at various positions without disturbing the fruit or risking damage.
Data Source
AI summary
A working platform that can be removably attached to a front portion of a utility tractor is provided in which the platform is at least horizontally adjustable, is sized to allow a user to move about on the platform, and the tractor can be controlled by a user with controls located on the platform. In addition, an automatic steering system may be included that allows the tractor to remain generally along a preselected course, such as between rows of trees or other objects. As the tractor moves down the row of an orchard, the platform can be adjusted so as to be in an appropriate position for performing work on the tree. A harvesting accessory system may also be attached to the tractor in conjunction with the working platforms, which supports and conveys bins from the tractor to the ground.