MACHINE FOR HARVESTING FRUIT AND THE LIKE FROM THE GROUND

摘要

A machine for harvesting fruit from the ground comprises a frame and a transverse conveyor for engaging fruit on the ground and conveying the same transversely inwardly toward an inner end of the conveyor. An endless belt elevator is supported on the frame and includes a lower generally horizontal portion extending adjacent the ground adjacent the inner end of the transverse conveyor and positioned to receive the fruit and the like therefrom. The elevator passes upwardly at an obtuse angle with respect to the horizontal portion and over outer disc members engaging the belt and an inner roller member of diameter smaller than said discs and concentric therewith and having its surface conforming to the path of the upper ends of transverse flights on the belt. A receiving member extends transversely below an upper portion of the belt elevator beyond the upper roller for receiving fruit and the like passing over the roller. The receiving member inclines downwardly to one side of the belt elevator for guiding said fruit and the like toward a collection receptacle. The machine gathers the fruit, elevates it and transfers it to the collection receptacles while avoiding or reducing damage to the fruit.