Fruit thinning apparatus
US5664720A · kind A · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 28, 1995 |
| Grant date | Sep 9, 1997 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 28, 2015 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA01D46/243
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A fruit thinning apparatus for reducing fruit bruises caused when thinned fruit is discarded and strikes fruit left on the tree. The apparatus includes a chute having an upper portion which is supported upon a person's torso using a harness. A lower portion of the chute extends along the person's leg and is held in position by leg connectors, preferably at both the upper and lower leg. The outlet end is provided with an adjustable cuff to accommodate different heights of people. A cinch is used along medial portions of the chute to allow thinned fruit to be held and then released when the outlet is in a position where damage will not occur.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.