BE511232A - - Google Patents

Description

       

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  PERFECTED PROCESS AND MEANS FOR PREVENTING THE WANTING OF PLANTS AND
TO REVIVE WILD PLANTS TO COMPLETE FRESHNESS.



   If a fresh, sap-filled plant, for example a vegetable, is detached from its root, its liquid content gradually decreases as a result of transpiration and evaporation of the water contained in the liquid-filled cells and after a a certain time, the duration of which depends on temperature, humidity and other factors in the outside atmosphere, the plant begins to wilt and eventually destroys itself completely.



   Until now, no practical means were available to stop these inevitable and harmful phenomena of destruction.



   The primary object of the present invention is to provide a process for preventing wilting of plants. By the term "plants" is meant hereinafter, for example, vegetables, flowers and fruits.



   Another object of the present invention is to restore to plants which have already wilted their freshness and their complete turgor.



   This is carried out in accordance with the present invention by infiltrating liquid, such as water or an aqueous solution, mainly through the stomata, into the intercellular spaces, so as to saturate them completely or partially, and repeating the procedure. operation at suitable intervals. Thus a large reserve of water is stored in the plants with this visual effect that the plants acquire a more turgid appearance than they had before the treatment.



   The hanging stems of already withered plants straighten up and become rigid again, the withered leaves unfold again and the wrinkled fruits regain their natural roundness.



   Plants treated according to the present invention remain fresh and edible and retain high nutritional value for long periods of time.

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 longer periods than is otherwise possible.
As the treatment requires very little time for its effective application = a complete cycle only lasts 1 to 10 minutes - and as the development of a large choice of means has been carried out for the treatment of small, medium-sized and large quantities of plants, the present invention constitutes a significant advance in the conservation of essential and valuable food materials, a high percentage of which would otherwise be lost for human consumption.



   The term "super-turgor" is used here to denote the state in which plants contain more water than in their normal state of freshness To prevent wilting of plants, or to restore plants which have already wilted to their complete freshness , it is essential to change their normal state to a state of super turgor and to maintain them in this state for the entire period foreseen for their conservation.



   In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a method is provided for preventing wilting of plants and for restoring wilted plants to their full freshness, wherein the plants are contacted with a liquid, subjected to any condition. chosen from several pressure conditions, by which the liquid is forced to enter and partially or totally saturate the inter-cellular spaces of these plants. These liquid pressure conditions can be produced by centrifugal force, kinetic energy, static pressure above atmospheric pressure, pressure changes above atmospheric pressure, pressure changes above or below atmospheric pressure. below atmospheric pressure or even pressure waves.



   These different pressure conditions can be repeated at appropriate intervals.



   The pressure condition resulting from the centrifugal form can be obtained by submerging the plants to be treated in a liquid contained in a closed rotating drum and by rotating this drum at high speed around its axis.



   The pressure condition resulting from kinetic energy is obtained by directing a jet of liquid, divided into fine particles and moving at high speed, against the surfaces of the plants to be treated.



   The pressure condition resulting from the static pressure higher than atmospheric pressure is obtained by submerging the plants in a liquid contained in a closed container, increasing the pressure in this container to above atmospheric pressure and thus forcing the liquid to penetrate and saturate the intercellular spaces of plants.



   However, it has been found that it is more efficient to use low or medium frequency pressure variations, either above or above and below atmospheric pressure, produced by suitable pumps.



   Finally, pressure waves can also be used and in this case, the plants are submerged in a liquid contained in a closed container, the container being shaken or animated by mechanical oscillations or else high or very high pressure waves. high frequency, can be produced in the liquid itself, for example by magnetostriction or piezoelectric effects.



   After filling the intercellular spaces of plants with liquid, the cells neighboring the intercellular spaces absorb part of the liquid by osmosis through their cell membranes and this phenomenon spreads rapidly from cell to cell throughout the entire plant until that all of its tissues are completely saturated with liquid and thus regain their complete freshness and turgor.



  This also takes place if the plants were already wilted earlier in an advanced way.

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   This movement of liquid therefore largely replaces the activities of the roots and of the "vascular system" of plants which have been damaged by cutting them. Thus we can again distribute liquid throughout the mass of plants and this is the main reason for the remarkable extension of the life of the plants picked, treated by this process.



   The complete restoration of plants whose intercellular spaces have been more or less completely filled, is immediate and it offers a spectacle of the most astonishing to see completely withered plants coming out of a machine or apparatus which have regained all their freshness and turgor after a treatment lasting only a few minutes.



   By using the system of partial saturation of the intercellular spaces, the restoration of the plants requires a certain time which depends on the atmospheric conditions, on the nature of the plants, their condition before the treatment and which can last from 30 minutes to several hours.



   The greatest possible reserve of liquid can be supplied to plants by completely saturating the intercellular spaces with liquid.



  Such a condition of plants, however, has an adverse effect on the normal respiration and assimilation of plant cells by preventing the exchange of gases in and out of the intercellular spaces and if this condition persists for a long time. certain period of time, putrefaction takes place invariably. '
To overcome this serious disadvantage, several methods of partial saturation of intercellular spaces have been examined. It has, however, been found that this mode of saturation does not offer any solution to the problem, since partial saturation of this kind always results in completely saturating certain regions of the hollow spaces with liquid, which are also susceptible to. be affected by putrefaction than fully saturated plants.



   The complete solution of this problem is the development of another aspect of the present invention, according to which a method is provided for preventing wilting of plants and for invigorating withered plants to their complete freshness whereby the plants come into contact with liquid, which is subjected to any one of several pressure conditions, by which the liquid is forced to penetrate and partially or completely saturate the intercellular spaces of plants and some or most much of the liquid which has thus entered the plants is subsequently removed.



   The method therefore comprises the means for conveying the liquid into the intercellular spaces of the plants and for subsequently removing part or the greater part of this liquid.



   If, for example, a leaf is completely infiltrated, all of its intercellular spaces are completely saturated with liquid, forming a continuous and unbroken region of inundated internal cavities, extending over the entire leaf.



   In the event of only partial saturation there are a large number of large pockets of inundated regions, surrounded by regions which are either entirely empty or which contain a large number of small pockets of infiltrated liquid, distributed very uniformly.



   Removing some of the unwanted liquid from the fully filled sheet first results in a condition very closely resembling a partially saturated sheet, i.e. in which the region of continuous infiltration subdivides. into a number of large pockets of liquid, interspersed in regions containing small pockets of liquid.



   These three conditions are unfavorable to plants and should be avoided.

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   If the operation of emptying the intercellular spaces is continued or repeated, the large pockets of liquid are then also subdivided into a network of small pockets.



   Eventually, by pushing even further or repeating this emptying operation, the small pockets of fluid are also removed from the intercellular spaces and only a thin layer of fluid remains, covering and firmly adhering to the membranes of the cells that form the walls. intercellular spaces. This film of liquid constitutes a more or less uniform wetting of the interior surfaces of plant tissues and since these interior surfaces have a much larger area than the exterior surfaces, this internal wetting provides a sufficient amount of moisture to satisfy the needs of the plants. needs of plant cells if and when necessary.



   The last two conditions of the plants are very advantageous and we must try to achieve them. Neither the thin film of liquid nor the small pockets of liquid have any influence on the normal gas exchange of plants and do not give rise to imputrefaction.



   Vegetables, flowers and some fruits change color under the effect of infiltration; this is due to the differences in reflection and refraction of the light which passes or is reflected by the intercellular spaces which are filled with either air or liquid. Thus, the infiltrated regions of green vegetables appear dark green and sometimes "glassy" while the flower petals appear translucent with the more delicate pastel tones modified in various shades.



   This particular fact constitutes an aided and significant means of judging the degree of infiltration of the intercellular spaces by liquid by simple visual observation of the degree and distribution of the discoloration of the plants.



   The infiltration of a leafy vegetable, for example, has been correctly executed in its various stages if large dark green spots (corresponding to large pockets) appear after saturation and if, after removal of a certain part of the liquid, these large spots have been replaced by a more or less uniformly distributed network of small dark green spots (corresponding to small pockets) varying in size from a pinhead to a pea. We continue to withdraw liquid, the color of the network of small spots becomes lighter, until it disappears. In this condition, the vegetable (or flower) appears perfectly normal with any discoloration gone, but the plant still contains additional liquid in the form of interior wetting.



   By absorption of liquid by the plant cells and internal wetting, with or without additional small pockets of liquid, the state of the plants has been transformed from the natural state into the state of super-turgor.



   After a while, part of this water reserve in the plants will be lost due to evaporation. If all of this water supply is completely exhausted, the super-turgor state will be lost and the plants will wilt again. Care should be taken to repeat the treatment of the plants before arriving at this state of affairs to ensure the best results.



   Several means and methods have been developed for removing unwanted fluid from intercellular spaces.



   According to one of these methods the plants are exposed to atmospheric conditions which promote and accelerate the natural evaporation of the liquid. Thus the plants infiltrated before, can be exposed to the sun or to a warm atmosphere, preferably of low humidity, the air can be circulated by means of natural currents or by the wind or by artificial means such as a fan . The plants can also be turned from time to time so as to expose all the

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 parts in the air.



   This natural evaporation takes some time, and care should be taken to remove unnecessary liquid within 12 to 24 hours.



   If after this time the intended result has not been obtained, or in cases where natural evaporation cannot take place, for example due to lack of time, or favorable weather conditions or absence of an operator trained and experienced, more drastic artificial means can be used.



   One of these artificial means of removing unnecessary fluid from the intercellular spaces of plants is to expose these plants to the action of centrifugal force. For example, to perform this operation, the plants are placed in a rotating drum containing no liquid and the drum is rotated at high speed around its axis, so as to drive the plants at a circumferential speed of at least 9 meters. per second.



   According to another method, and after saturating the intercellular spaces of the plants with liquid, the unnecessary liquid can be removed by placing the plants in a closed chamber containing no liquid and subjected to a pressure greater than atmospheric pressure, which, for example, can be 14 kg. per cm. square or more. This emptying operation can be repeated, if necessary, one or more times.



   After saturation or substantial saturation of the intercellular spaces of plants with liquid, unnecessary liquid can be removed from the interior hollow spaces of plants by introducing the plants into a closed chamber containing no liquid and subjecting the chamber to a vacuum which can be represented by a 368 mm column of mercury. or more. This can be repeated one or more times if necessary, and this repetition results in removing more liquid from the plants.



   Or, unwanted liquid can be removed from the plants by placing the plants in a closed chamber containing no liquid and subjecting the chamber to low or medium frequency pressure changes. Any type or combination of pressure variations can be used. For example, pressure variations may be entirely greater than atmospheric pressure or entirely below atmospheric pressure, or they may vary from a pressure below atmospheric pressure to a pressure above atmospheric pressure and vice versa. -versa.



   Unnecessary liquid can also be removed by application of vibrations or purely mechanical oscillations at medium or high frequency.



   The unnecessary liquid can still be removed by a very rapid air stream to force the water out, the stream having a speed of 7 meters per second or more. If such a current of air is brought into contact with the plants, unnecessary liquid is removed from the intercellular spaces, and furthermore, the exterior surfaces of the plants will be simultaneously dried.



   After having undergone any of the treatments described above, the plants can be dried on their outer surfaces. This is an essential phase because without it putrefaction would occur quickly. The surfaces can be dried by subjecting the plants to centrifugal force, to more or less abrupt movement of change of direction of acceleration, such as mechanical vibrations or oscillations or even by the action of a current. of air.



     For the various infiltration operations, clear cold water is normally used, to which, however, other substances can be added for certain purposes.

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   If you want to minimize the loss of infiltrated water, you can add inhibiting substances, such as 2-4 dichlorophen = noxy acetic acid, which substance is used in an amount of 0.3 gr. per liter, reduces plant transpiration to about half of its normal value.



  Beta-naphthoxy acetic acid is a similar means, which when used at the same concentration, causes stomata to close.



   The loss of vitamin C in already withered plants can be compensated for by adding ascorbic acid to the infiltrating liquid in appropriate amounts.



   Medicinal substances can be added to vegetables to be canned in various ways. It is possible, for example for anemic people, to introduce ferrous chloride; with the liquid saturating vitamin C or lime gluconate can be added for those who need it.



   Colorants can also be added, such as, for example, for peas for canning, chlorophyll in colloidal form or in the form of the sodium salt of chlorophyl carbonic acid.



  Several different dyes can still be added to the infiltration liquid to achieve remarkable effects with the flowers. To ordinary white flowers or slightly colored, we can restore tones of one or more different colors ranging from the palest shades to black. Infiltration may be confined to the flowers only so as to keep the leaves their natural color. Water soluble aniline colors can be used, such as saffron, basic fuchsin, basic fuchsin, acid fuchsin, ru- bin S, methylene violet, carmine, violet. methyl B, indigo, gentian violet B, crystal violet, manchester brown, venetian black, saffranin T.



   Another aim of the invention comprises the preservation of the products after treatment or between successive treatments, and in accordance with this aim of the invention, the plants, after infiltration of the intercellular spaces with liquid according to any method or after treatment. by one of the methods described above, are kept in a cold atmosphere. Thus, for example, the air in a storage chamber can be maintained at a temperature ranging from 0 C. to 15 C. In addition, the air can be circulated in this chamber by means of a fan. or convection currents. The chamber can be equipped with artificial means of reducing the temperature. it can also contain or be sprayed with germicides or ozone. It can be illuminated with ultra-violet light.

   Facilities may be provided in the storage chamber for air and for keeping it at a high degree of humidity.



   Another object of the invention relates to the machines and apparatus necessary for carrying out treatments for the prevention of wilting of plants and for the complete revitalization of wilted plants such as they are shown in the accompanying drawings in which:
Figure 1 shows a side elevational section of a machine form.



   Figure 1A is a vertical section showing a detailed view of a modified form of the cover.



   Figure 1B is a plan view of Figure 1A, the top of which has been removed.



   Figure 2 is a section through another form of machine.



   Figure 3 is a section taken along line 3-3 in fig. 2.



   Fig. 4 is a sectional view showing the enlarged exhaust valve.



   Figure 5 is a vertical section through another form of machine.

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   Figure 6 is a section taken along line 6-6 in fig. 5.



   Figure 7 is a section taken along line 7-7 in fig. 5.



   Figure 8 is a detailed view of part of this machine.



   Figure 9 is a section through another form of apparatus.



   Figure 10 is a section through another form of apparatus.



   Figure 11 is a plan view of another form of apparatus.



   Figure 12 is a section taken on line 12-12 of Figure 11.



   Figure 13 is a section taken on line 13-13 of Figure 11.



   Figure 14 is a section through another form of apparatus.



   Figure 15 is a section taken on line 15-15 of Figure 14.



   Figure 16 is a section through another form of machine.



   Figure 17 is a section through another form of machine.



   Figure 18 is a section through another form of machine.



   Figure 19 is an enlarged view of part of this machine.



   FIG. 20 is a schematic view of the pumping circuit of the machine in its other position.



   Figure 21 is a plan view of another form of machine.



   Figure 22 is a section taken on line 22-22 of Figure 21.



   Figure 23 is a vertical section of a detail.



   Figure 24 is a section taken on line 24-24 of Figure 22.



   Figure 25 is a section taken on line 25-25 of Figure 22.



   Figure 26 is a section taken on line 26-26 of Figure 25.



   Figure 27 is a section through. through the pump of this machine.



   Figure 28 is a section taken on line 28-28 of Figure 27.



   Fig. 29 is a view showing a type of continuous operation installation according to the invention.



   Figure 30 is a detail view of part of the installation.



   Figure 31 is a section through another form of machine.



   Figure 32 is a sectional view of a detail of this machine.



   Figure 33 is a section taken on line 33-33 of Figure 31.



   Figure 34 is a detailed sectional view of the control valve.



   Figure 35 is a section taken on line 35-35 of Figure 34.



   Figure 36 is a view of another type of apparatus.



   Figure 37 is a plan view of this apparatus.



   Figure 38 is a section taken on line 38-38 of Figure 37.

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   Figure 39 is a plan view of another type of apparatus.



   Figure 40 is a section taken on line 40-40 of Figure 39.



   Figure 41 is a plan view of Figure 40.



   The constructions shown in Figures 1 to 4 are examples of the process using centrifugal force as a means of infiltrating water into plants. The constructions are intended for the treatment of average quantities of plants up to around 50 kgr. per cycle. The treatment is fast and efficient and takes 3 to 8 minutes for a complete cycle of operations as described below.



   In the construction shown in Figure 1, the machine comprises a drum 400 mounted on a vertical shaft 401 supported by a ball bearing 402 contained in a sleeve 403. At its lower end, the shaft 401 is provided with a pulley 404 controlled by a belt 405 from the electric motor 406.



   The base of the machine is a cast iron casting 407 to which is attached an outer cylindrical casing 408. The base 407 carries on one side a discharge opening 409 and is mounted on suitable wheels 410. The base is curved towards the bottom in the form of a channel as seen at 411 to join the discharge 409 and it is provided with projections 412 to which are attached arms 413 of the sleeve 403 by means of the bolts 414 and the nuts 415.

   This connection includes rubber sleeves to allow shock absorption caused by drum 400 as a result of the imbalance of the plants contained therein, before they are transmitted to the part at 407.



   The upper part of the outer casing 408 is provided with a cover 416 hinged to the casing by means of a hinge 417 so as to maintain the cover 416 in the open position by the flange 418 which engages in it. ring 419 disposed at the top of the envelope. This ring 419 has a protruding lug embraced by two plates 420 attached to the cover 416; these three elements are provided with holes 421 for receiving a closure pin to lock the cover in the closed position and to prevent slamming when the drum rotates.



   The drum 400 is provided with a cover 422 carrying a ring 423 which extends downwards and a ring forming a seal 424 so as to ensure the hermetic contact of the cover with the upper crown of the drum. The cover 422 also has a locating ring 425 mounted at its bottom, provided with a number of grooves which are exposed when the cover 422 is raised. Spring pistons 427 are housed in lugs 428 placed on the crown of the drum.



   The shaft 401 passes through the interior of the drum upwards and its upper part is provided with a screw thread 429 on which fits a nut 430 with handles 431 which allows it to be turned to tighten the cover tightly. 422 on the drum. Nut 430 is provided with a flange 432 which comes into contact with a plate 433 fixed to the top of the cover.



   The upper part of the nut 430 is provided with an internal thread 434 in the opposite direction to the pitch 429, arranged so as to be able to receive the screw thread 435 disposed at the lower end of the pivot 436 of which the upper end carries a handle 437. The pivot 436 is housed in a sleeve 438 fixed in the cover 416; a spring 439 operates between the bottom of the sleeve and the underside of the handle 437, and must be strong enough to be able to support the cover 422 when carried by the cover 416 as will be explained below.



   Pivot 436 is provided for this purpose with a collar 440 and when the machine is to be opened to be filled with plants, pivot 436 is pushed down until the conical end of thread 435 enters.

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 in the outward flared end of the internal thread 434. When the handle 437 is turned in the appropriate direction, the screwed end 435 of the pivot engages in the internal threaded part until the collar 440 comes into contact with the head of the nut 430, then the rotation of the handle 437 'unscrews the nut 430 from the upper part of the shaft 401.

   When the nut 430 is released from the end of the shaft 401, the spring 439 lifts the pivot 436 and the cover 422 until the collar 440 contacts the underside of the sleeve 438. Cover 416 can then open and swing into its upright position with cover 422 securely attached thereto such that cover 422 does not come apart from the machine and is not placed on the floor or anywhere where it could be damaged.

   The plants are then introduced into the drum while being contained in a trellis basket 441 provided with a cover 442 and folding handles 443. The basket is placed in the drum by means of the circumferential guide elements 4440
With the drum 400 completely filled with water, the cover 416 is lowered and the pivot 436 is lowered until the nut 430 contacts the upper end of the shaft 401. The rotation of the handle 437 in the appropriate direction screws the nut 430 lightly into the thread 429 then the threaded end 435 begins to unscrew from the nut 430 until it is completely free and the handle 437 is reassembled under the pressure of the spring.

   The cover 416 is then lifted and the nut 430 screwed firmly in by hand. The high torque required to secure the cover requires some type of locking device (not shown) to secure the drum 400. The cover 416 is then closed. The operation of penetrating the liquid into the intercellular spaces of the plants begins at this time.



   The motor is started, and the drum 400 begins to rotate.



  The water if it does not completely fill the drum, after aboron reaches the speed of the drum, disposes of itself following a hollow cylinder along the walls of the drum, and the vegetables = - which are heavier than the water are placed near the sieve. In the water cylinder, the pressure increases rapidly in proportion to the square of its distance from the axis of rotation. This pressure causes water to penetrate into the plants and saturate the intercellular spaces while at the same time expelling the air which they contain. Plants closest to the inner circumference of the drum being exposed a. the higher pressure, will exhibit the highest percentage of infiltration, this percentage of infiltration, this percentage gradually decreasing in the layers arranged closer to the axis.



  After the required time, the motor is disconnected and the brake 445 comes into contact with the upper face of the pulley 404 by operating the pedal-447-of the lever to
 EMI9.1
 brake 446 has .1 '. against the action dcrresBDrt.Jt.46A for a !!:' l! 1'êtfu3rrota: 1ieE W tmlbar.



  The cover 416 is opened and the cover 422 is lifted slightly, when the nut 430 is unscrewed slightly but enough to allow the upper ends of the slots 426 to rise a little above the crown of the drum 400. The cover 416 is closed the motor is restarted and the drum rotates. Pistons 427 produce additional friction which prevents relative movement between cover 422 and drum 400.



  Water escapes through slits 426 and is dipped down through ring 423 to ultimately escape through discharge 409. It is then that the outer surfaces of the plants can be dried. By continuing to rotate the drum for a suitable period of time, the outer surfaces of the plants may become dry. If the speed reached by the drum is high enough, some or most of the infiltrated liquid may be forced out. 'exterior, the exterior surfaces of the plants being dried simultaneously.



   The handle 437 is then operated in the manner already described above to lift the cover 422, after which the cover 416 can be tilted backwards so that the treated vegetables can be removed from their basket and replaced by vegetables to be treated.



   Figures 1A and 1B show a modification of the construction referred to above, in which means are provided to enable

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 lift the drum cover and allow the liquid to escape without stopping the rotation of the drum so that the time required to complete a complete treatment cycle can be reduced.



   As shown in Figure 1A, the construction of cover 448 is similar to that of cover 422 shown in Figure 1 and can be attached to the upper end of shaft 401. The upper part of the shaft has a nut 449 which engages the thread 450 and the lower end of the nut is provided with a flanged collar 451 which can slide over the nut and is attached to it by means of a key 452 .



  Below the collar 451 another nut 453 is screwed onto the lower end of the nut 449 and a spring 454 operates between the upper face of this nut and the raised flange 455 of the cover 448.



   Nut 449 is provided with a number (in this case 4) of pairs of legs 456 arranged radially.



   Between each pair of branches 456 is placed a pivot 457 on which pivot a pair of cranks 458 supporting between them a roller 459 mounted on a pivot 460.



   The cover 448 is provided with an annular flange 461 directed upwards. A ring 462 mounted so as to be able to slide vertically in this flange, is provided with handles 463 disposed radially and also with pairs of ears 464 directed radially towards the center and embracing the branches 456 of the nut 449 so that, when the ring 462 is rotated by the handles 463, the ears 464 rotate the nut 449.



   A spring 465 acts between the lower part of the handles 463 and the ribs 466 on the upper face of the cover 448.



   Means similar to those designated in FIG. 1 are also provided for lifting the cover and comprise a pivot 467 mounted in a sleeve 468 fixed on the outer cover 469, provided with an operating button 470 mounted on its upper end. and a spring 471 acting between the lower part of the button 470 and the upper face of the flange of the sleeve 468. The pivot is provided with a collar 472, is provided with a thread 473 at its end and also a suitable number of arms 474 (in this case three) arranged radially which carry on their ends rollers 475 mounted on the pivots 476. These rollers are arranged vertically above the upper edge of the ring 462.



   The operation of this mechanism is as follows: If you want to lift the cover 448 to allow the escape of the liquid after the infiltration has been complete, you apply an intense downward shock to the button 470 or you pushes it down by hand so that the cylinders 475 come into contact with the upper edge of the ring 462 and push the latter down against the pressure of the spring 465 until which it occupies the position shown on the left in dotted lines in figure 1A.

   Previously; the inwardly directed flange 477 of the ring 462 prevents the movement of the rollers 459 but as soon as the ring is lowered the rollers 459 move outwards under the strong pressure of the liquid exerted on the cover 448 and under the action of centrifugal force in the position indicated in dotted lines to the left of FIG. 1 A. This movement is made possible by the fact that the line of the centers of the pivots 457 and 460 is away from the neutral point.

   When this is done, the liquid pressure inside the drum produced by the centrifugal force acts to lift the cover 448 and also moves the collar 451 upward keeping its upper surface in contact with the underside of the legs. cylinders 459. Thus the cover has raised enough to allow the liquid to escape over the upper edge of the drum without the drum ceasing to rotate. When most of the liquid has been discharged from the drum and the liquid pressure in the drum is therefore insufficient to maintain the cover 448 in its raised position, the spring 454 fulfills this role and thus allows the escape.

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 pour the last drop of liquid.



   When the operation is finished, the cover 448 can be lifted by means of the pivot 467 in the manner already described, for the previous construction by lowering the pivot 467 until its threaded end 473 'engages on the thread. of screw 478 of the nut 449. The lowering of the pin 467 thus executed, pushes the ring 462 downwards until it occupies the position shown in dotted lines to the right of FIG. 1A.



   Threaded end 473 then screws firmly into position and continued rotation unscrews nut 449 and thus lifts cover 448 until the nut releases from the end of the shaft.
401; the spring 471 then acts to lift the cover 448 until the collar 472 again contacts the lower part of the sleeve 468.



   To put the cover 448 back in place, the cover is lowered
469 in position and the pivot 467 is lowered until the nut 449 partially engages the threaded end 450 of the shaft 401, after which the handling of the button 470 unscrews the end of the pivot 467.



   A slight pressure of the hand exerted on the upper face of the cover 448 causes the latter to descend against the action of the spring 454 and thus allows the spring 465 to push the ring 462 and the flange.
477 upwards by passing the rollers 459, and returning the latter and the cranks 458 to their original position. The lifting of the ring
462 is limited by the upper face of the ring 477 which comes into contact with the lower faces of the branches 456. The ring 462 is then rotated by hand by means of the handles 463 until a strong pressure is exerted. by nut 449 via cranks 458, cylinders
459 and collar 451 on cover 448, pressing the latter tightly against the upper edge of the drum.



   In another construction shown in Figures 2-4, infiltration is also produced by centrifugal force. In this case, the plants are submerged in water in a closed rotating drum 250 driven by an electric motor 251 and rotating around its axis. The drum contains a cylindrical screen 252 disposed concentrically with the drum, of smaller diameter, but of the same length. After filling the drum with plants and liquid to a suitable level, the cover 253 at the upper part of the drum is closed and the drum is rotated around its axis at very high speed.



   After complete infiltration, water can escape from the centrifugal machine without stopping it. For this purpose, a lift valve 254 is provided and is disposed radially in the wall of the drum; this valve 254 is pushed against its seat by centrifugal force and a spring 255.



    -This spring is attached to a fixed pivot pin mounted on ears 256 on the outside of the drum, and the spring is also attached to the end of a lever 257 pivoting on other ears 258 placed on the drum , the lever itself being provided with a roller 259 fixed at its other end.



   Lever 257 is also attached to valve stem 254.



   A curved guide bar 260 is disposed within the path of the roller and pivots on an axis 261 disposed parallel to the axis of the drum. The guide bar is held in position by a radial spring 262, but it can be moved outward by pulling a button attached to the bar by a radial rod 263; roller 259 of lever 257 thus moves outward and the lever opens the valve
254, which is held open by spring 255, moving past neutral the guide bar is returned to its original position by means of radial spring 262.



   The water then escapes quickly through the valve and the plants are dried immediately after. If the drum rotates at a sufficiently high speed, unnecessary liquid can also be removed from the es-

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 intercellular spaces by centrifugal force. When this operation is complete, valve 254 can be closed by pushing inward a second button, attached to rod 264 connected to a second curved guide bar 265, which also pivots on the casing surrounding the drum. .



  The two guide bars are curved and are disposed circumferentially between the drum and its casing.



   Centrifugal force infiltration lends itself to variation which allows for continuous operation. This can be achieved by adopting another construction as shown in Figures 5 to 8, comprising a drum 266 fixed to a hollow vertical shaft 267 through the central bore of which passes a control pivot. 268, the lower end of this pivot is provided with a drum brake 268 A on which a brake band 268 B can fit, while the upper end is provided with a small pinion 269 s' meshing with a larger pinion 270 mounted on a lateral vertical shaft 271, itself mounted in two bearings arranged at the top and at the bottom of the drum, this shaft is arranged parallel to the shaft 267 but spaced from the latter.

   Symmetrically to the side shaft 271, with respect to the axis of rotation, a second side shaft 272 is provided, also mounted in two bearings at the top and at the bottom of the drum. Two gear wheels of the same dimensions 273 are mounted on each of these shafts and mesh with each other.



   Above these pinions, and also wedged to the side shafts, are two support plates or braces 274 with three arms supporting three fixed vertical axes 275. Supports composed of small gears 276 and large collars 277 rotate freely, around it. these axes; the gears are attached to the collars by means of thin fuses. In addition, two sets of arms 277 A attached to each of the side shafts are connected above the collars to vertical perforated sleeves 278 which receive vertical, hollow and cylindrical vegetable containers.

   The latter each comprise a bottom plate 280 provided with six rising projections 281, a perforated cylindrical casing 279 and a cover 282 fixed to the casing by a bib seal. The cover is provided with a central knob 283 with freely rotating stop tabs. It is possible to place less (or more) than three vegetable containers on each side shaft.



  The hollow shaft 267 is driven by an electric motor 284.



   The operation is as follows: the drum 266 is filled with water to an appropriate level and is driven by a rapid rotational movement around its vertical axis. With the 268 A drum brake released, the entire inner drum mechanism rotates in unison with the drum, just as if it were firmly attached to it; but by slightly braking the drum by means of the brake band 268 B, the small pinion 269 on the control pivot 268 is retarded relative to the drum and rotates the pinion 270 of the side shaft 271, and with it the shaft itself and all the parts attached to it, slowly around the axis of the side shaft 271, while the other side shaft 272 and all the mechanism attached to it, slowly turn in the opposite direction under the action of the gear.

   The liquid contained in the drum takes the form of a cylinder coaxial with the axis of the drum, and this water cylinder has a cylindrical interior surface 283 A.



  By slightly retarding the drum brake, the sleeves 278, with their vegetable containers 279, slowly and gradually penetrate the liquid cylinder to a maximum depth to emerge thereafter.



  The vegetables contained therein are thus subjected to the inflection of water during the passage of the containers through the pressure zones and are dried superficially after having emerged from the water.



   The disadvantage of irregular infiltration already mentioned can be largely overcome by imparting an independent rotational movement to the containers. This can be achieved by means of a plate 285, attached to the drum and having two sets of inner gear teeth 286, each of which is concentric with one of the side shafts 271 and 272, the inner gear teeth occupying three quarters of its circumference. These inner gears 286 mesh with the small gears

  <Desc / Clms Page number 13>

 276 mounted on the axles 275 carried on the struts 274, and in this way the pinions 276 rotate about the axles, together with their collars. The latter each comprise 3 spring pegs 287 parallel to the axes but spaced apart laterally.

   The springs 288 bring the pins entirely inside the collars 277 but the pins can be pushed upwards by the guide bar 289 fixed on the drum concentrically to the side shafts and entering the openings formed by the narrow rockets. between the pinions 276 and the collars 277.



   Likewise, whenever a vegetable container at; During its circular motion around the side shafts, has reached the axis of rotation of the drum, the brake valve is moved away from the brake drum by known means, and the control pivot 268 is rigidly attached to the 'hollow shaft 267, so as to stop all movement, relative interior in the drum. The containers successively reach the central position and in this position they can be grasped by their buttons, either by hand or by means of a suitable instrument and be lifted from the drum.



  An elevated funnel-shaped tubing 290 disposed on the outer casing facilitates placement and guidance of the container during operation, and the same is true when inserting a container of vegetables to be processed immediately thereafter. The container, in place, is accelerated rapidly via the rapidly rotating sleeve 278 in which it is placed due to the friction between the bottom 280 and the support collar 277. After a short determined time, the pivot 268 is of again automatically released from the hollow shaft 267 and slightly retarded by braking.



  The containers then begin to rotate around the side shafts. When the small pinions 276 reach the inner gears 286, and mesh with them, the collars 277 in turn begin to rotate-around the vertical axles 275 on which they are mounted. The guide bar 289 then pushes at least one, and sometimes two, of the pegs 287 of the collar 277 upwards by means of their chamfered parts 289 A to make them penetrate into the notches 281, and in this way to form a control connection with the container, rotating it about its own central axis as it moves through the liquid under pressure and assu-. thus ensuring a uniform infiltration of all parts.

   When the small gear pinions 276 reach the other end of the inner gear 286, this rotational movement is stopped. The pegs 287 fit into the collars 277, and when it reaches the central axis of rotation of the drum, the pivot 268 is wedged on the hollow shaft 267 and the movement of the container around the side shaft is stopped. container in the center of the system is then removed and quickly replaced with one containing the untreated product and the cycle will begin again. The delay and timing of the control pivot 268 can also be accomplished by means of a suitable controlled gear. by the hollow shaft 267 or other known means.

   When the vessels emerge from the liquid cylinder at a sufficiently high rotational speed, unnecessary liquid can be removed from the intercellular spaces by centrifugal force which simultaneously dries the surfaces of the plants.



   It is also possible to produce infiltration of plants by means of pressure waves produced in the liquid. In this process, the vegetables are completely submerged in water in a closed container. Preferably, the water fills the container completely. The container is then subjected to a reciprocating movement at an amplitude ranging from 2.5 cm to 30 cm. and at a rate of 0.5 to about 30 per second.



  Pressure waves are thus produced inside the container and infiltration occurs. The intercellular spaces also become saturated if the frequency of the pressure waves is increased even more until reaching a supersonic frequency while decreasing the amplitude correspondingly.



   Another process for the infiltration of the luquid consists in the use of kinetic energy in the form of a jet of water possibly sprayed into very fine particles. The kinetic energy of these particles must

  <Desc / Clms Page number 14>

 be a web that the impact exerted on the surfaces of plants causes the particles to penetrate through the stomata into the interior cavities.



   In a construction shown in Figure 9, for the application of this latter process, a tube 300 with a central bore 301 is connected to a pressurized water line. The bore ends with a small hole 302 allowing the projection of a fine spray of water.



  Where this water jet hits a leaf, a narrow line of infiltration appears, clearly visible on most leaves. This effect can even be made more visible and permanent by dissolving coloring matters in water. In this way, very clear writings and designs can be produced by infiltration on the sheets. Writing and drawing in very fine lines on the petals of flowers is sometimes. difficult, since the stomata are often degenerate, small or immobile.



  The pricking of the petals with a fine needle or a suitable set of these needles spaced 2 to 3 mm. approximately, greatly facilitated subsequent infiltration. To treat whole vegetables and flowers, a more extensive treatment is required, and another type of apparatus is used as shown in Fig. 10. In this construction, the pressurized water is discharged through a tube. 303 at the end of which is screwed a sleeve 304 on a thread provided on the tube, held in position by a locking nut 305. The other end of this sleeve ends in a conical opening 306 closely and slightly conforming to spaced from the periphery of a similarly shaped disc 307 attached to a rod 308 protruding from the end of the tube.

   The water passes through small spaced holes 309 at the end of the tube to be subdivided into a fine conical-shaped spray after passing through the properly adjusted space between the sleeve 304 and the periphery of the disc 307.



  This spray of water resembling a brush in terms of its touch and action has been called a "water brush". As the water brush slowly passes over the plants, rapid infiltration occurs. The apparatus must be adjusted so that the kinetic energy of the water particles is insufficient to damage plants but large enough to produce infiltration at a reasonable rate.



   In another construction shown in Figures 11 to 13, a water brush with a flattened cross section is produced. In this construction, a rubber molding 310 is connected to the tube 311 serving as a pressurized water passage. The molded part has a circular section at one end but has an elongated or flattened section at the other end and ends with a narrow slot 312. This opening can be adjusted by means of two nuts 313 screwed onto screws 314 of one size. metal clamp comprising two articulated jaws 315 coming into contact with the opposite faces of the molded part 310:
It has been proven that an air stream of sufficient speed and volume can be used effectively to dry treated plants to remove water adhering to their surfaces.

   By analogy with the above, this process has been referred to as "air brush". A combination of "water brush" and "air brush" is possible as shown in Figs. 14. and 15. The air brush has a pipe 316 connected to a compressed air supply tube mounted in parallel with the tube of the water brush nozzle 317. The air brush may terminate in funnel form 318 and the water brush may carry a discharge funnel 319, and a tube 320, directed downwardly from the constriction 321 and entering a water container 322.

   A plate valve 323 is also provided which rotates around the peg 324 disposed parallel to the nozzle tube, and allows the air stream to wilt through the water brush tube 317 but prevents it from swirling. pass through the air brush 316. When the infiltration is complete, the valve 323 is turned by simply pressing the finger on its periphery to close the tube of the water brush 319 and open the tube of the air brush. 318. These two pipes have a common connection 325 to the compressed air supply line. They can however be connected to different air supplies and to

  <Desc / Clms Page number 15>

 different pressures.

   If a common air supply line is used, it is possible to dispense with a separate air brush tube and pass from infiltration to drying by shutting off the water supply by means of a tap placed on the water supply tube 320. It has however been found that the water brush making use of hydrostatic pressure to accelerate the water particles and as shown in Figures 10 to 13, is more efficient than using compressed air for the same purpose.



   The rapid movement of fine particles of water through the air produces considerable evaporation accompanied by a decrease in plant temperature, which is very beneficial. The infiltration produced by kinetic energy also lends itself by itself to the application of the continuous process whereby the plants are passed on a suitable conveyor in. a tunnel containing a long strip of water brushes followed by a similar length of air brushes for subsequent drying. Plants can be turned mechanically during this passage thus ensuring uniform treatment of the entire surface. If desired, some of the infiltrated liquid can be removed, increasing the speed of the air stream to 7 meters per second or more.

   With regard to these types of apparatus using the kinetic energy of the liquid, it is essential that the speed of the water jet striking the plants, is not less than 3.60 meters per second otherwise the infiltration does not take place. This speed should also not be high enough to damage the plants. The maximum speed depends on the properties of the plants being treated, eg a thick cabbage leaf can withstand a higher spray speed than a thin lettuce leaf.



   In another type of apparatus shown in Figure 16? Using only the static pressure of the liquid for the treatment, a vessel 326 is employed with a non-circular shaped cover 327 which may be oval and which fits the vessel from the inside. A pump 328 serves to relieve the pressure in the vessel and this pump can pump either liquid or air and can be operated by electricity, by hand or by foot. Pressure inside the container pushes lid 327 against the underside of an inwardly directed shoulder 329 provided at the top of the container and holds the container closed. The plants are introduced into the container in a basket 330, and the container is filled with liquid.

   After subjecting the interior of the container to a pressure greater than atmospheric pressure by means of the pump, the pressure is released. The operation can be repeated until the products have received sufficient infiltration. The liquid is then poured out, the treated products are removed and the surfaces are dried in a separate wringer or by means of a rapid air stream.



  Or, after emptying the liquid from the container, the intercellular spaces of the plants are emptied by application of an air pressure greater than atmospheric pressure. After releasing this excess pressure, the operation may be repeated one or more times until a sufficient quantity of liquid has been removed from the intercellular spaces. After emptying the interior of the plants of the liquid, the surfaces are dried as above.



   In the construction shown in Fig. 17, the process illustrated is that making use of pressure changes above atmospheric pressure to produce infiltration into the plants.



  A container 331 similar to that described last is used, which has a rounded upper rim 332 cut in the shape of an oval in which fits from below an oval cover 333, which, as the pressure in the container increases, is pressed against the crown, and thus closes the container. The bottom of the container 331 is connected to a pipe 334 terminating in a water tank 335 disposed as high and as far away from the container as possible. This tank is filled with water by the pipe 335 A supplying the water under pressure and the water level in the tank is controlled by a float valve 335 B. A valve 336 is mounted on the pipe.

  <Desc / Clms Page number 16>

 334 between the tank and the container.

   The pipe 334, of large section, extends beyond the receptacle and is provided at its other end with a hydraulic ram 337 of known construction. The operation is as follows: the container is filled with vegetables to be treated (which can be found in a trellis basket 338), then the upper oval cover 333 is introduced and it is tightened against the crown 332 by manipulating the handle 338 A, and thus lifting the cross member 338 B which is attached to the cover 333. The valve 339, mounted on the cover, is then opened. The water tank 335 has sufficient volume to permit rapid filling of the vegetable container and this or a similar arrangement may be used in conjunction with any other embodiment described herein. The filling is done by opening the valve 336.

   As soon as the container is full of water, the tap 339 is closed and the excess water then escapes through the valve of the hydraulic ram 337. Alternating pressure waves then occur under the known action of the valve. hydraulic ram in container 331 and this treatment is repeated until the plants are considered to be sufficiently saturated. Then the control valve 336 of the tube 334 is closed, the water in the container flows through the hydraulic ram and this flow is facilitated by opening the tap 339. The container is opened and the treated plants are removed. These can then be dried superficially by one or the other method as required.



   In another construction shown in Figs. 18-20, great freedom is available to perform the treatment in which the liquid is forced to penetrate and partially or totally saturate the intercellular spaces of the plants using pressure variations. Alternative options either below or above atmospheric pressure: This process is found to be very efficient and results in a cycle of saturation of the plants in a very short time. The machine comprises a drum 230 provided with a cover 231 mounted so as to rotate on a hollow shaft 232 arranged on the axis of the drum.

   A stuffing box 233 is mounted on the lower end of the hollow shaft and this shaft is connected by a pipe 234 to an air pump 235 capable of producing a vacuum or a pressure or both through it. a two-way valve 236, the casing of which carries 4 tubes. These four tubes are equally spaced around the hollow body of the two-way valve, and a tube 234 is connected to the lower end of the hollow shaft. Another tube 237 is connected to the suction port of the pump body. Another tube 238 connects the discharge from the pump body to the valve casing and the fourth tube 239 is in communication with the outside atmosphere.

   The valve which can oscillate or rotate in its casing, is provided with two passages in the form of L 240 which cross it, these passages are able to connect the hollow shaft to the suction port of the pump by the two pipes 234 and 237, the other passage being able to connect the discharge of the pump to the outside atmosphere by 'the other pipes 238 and 239 In the other position of the pump, shown in figure 20, one of the L-shaped passages connects the suction inlet of the pump to the atmosphere through the two tubes 237 and 239 and the other L-shaped passage connects the discharge of the pump to the hollow shaft.



   The hollow shaft 232 is extended by the tube 241 which crosses the drum upwards, to a place situated above the water level and is surrounded by a float 242 carrying a valve 243 based on the seat 244 disposed in a partition of the cover. The cover extends above the partition to form the container 245 filled with water to a suitable level. In one of the positions of the two-way valve 236 air is drawn from the drum until the desired vacuum is reached.



  By turning the valve 90 and letting the pump run, the air is forced back into the drum and causes the water therein to penetrate the intercellular spaces of the vegetables introduced into the drum. This cycle of pressure variations repeats itself and the plants absorb more and more water. By pumping air through the pump, a rather

  <Desc / Clms Page number 17>

 large filled with air forms above the level of the water going down into the drum. These operations, especially the creation of a high vacuum, take more and more time, which is not desirable. The float 242 overcomes this drawback.

   It lowers together with the water level, opens the valve 4 which operates between the container 245 of the cover and the drum and allows the water in the container to raise the level of the water in the drum. The two-way valve can be operated a few times by hand or even mechanically, and makes it possible to apply to the plants a certain number of waves of pressure or vacuum per minute.



   Or one can make use of an elastic diaphragm animated by mechanical oscillations and connected to a closed chamber containing the water and the plants.



   Using these systems, the number of pressure changes above or below atmospheric pressure can vary from less than one per minute to about 50 per second. As the time used per cycle decreases, the energy of the pulses must be increased and care must be taken to avoid the accumulation of air pockets by making use of means similar to those previously described, as these air pockets act as an elastic medium and prevent a sufficient increase in pressure or vacuum. Finally, it is still possible to use very high and even supersonic frequencies generated by magnetostriction or the piezoelectric effect.



   After saturation has been achieved, unnecessary liquid can be removed from the plants by emptying the liquid container and subjecting the plants to further pressure changes above or below atmospheric pressure. Or, they can be subjected to the action of centrifugal force. When this treatment is complete the exterior surfaces of the plants can be dried by centrifugal force or other methods described above. In the last construction described, the drum can be driven in a rotational movement by an electric motor 246. A brake 247 operated by lever 248 is provided to act on the control pulley 249, and slow the drum. .



   The construction shown in Figures 21 to 28 is also intended for the treatment of average quantities of plants up to 50 kg. at a time. The treatment is quick and takes only 2 to 5 minutes for a complete cycle.



   This process also uses pressure variations either above or below atmospheric pressure to produce infiltration.



   A drum 10, open above, is supported by the conical end 12 of the shaft 13 resting on ball bearings 14 and 15 and mounts in a bearing housing 16. This housing is fixed to the lower part of a housing. reservoir 17 which surrounds the drum 10 completely. The bottom of the tank 17 has a central flat portion 18 which penetrates into a spiral-shaped trough 19, the lowest point 20 of which is provided with a discharge pipe 21.



   The upper end of the reservoir 17 is provided with a circular ring 22 on which is articulated at 23 a cross member 24. This cross member is hollow, U-shaped and extends over the entire width of the reservoir; it is provided at its outer end with a hook 25 articulated on the cross member at 26 and which hooks to a spout 27 extending downward from the ring 22.



   A hollow projection 28 is provided on the cross member 24, threaded on the inside, which receives a pin 29 provided with a handwheel 30 operated at the; hand.



  The lower end of the pin 29 carries a reduced spout 31 which enters a slot in the spout and valve body 32 (Figure 23). This body carries a rubber ring forming a gasket 33 which closes the hole 34 located in the center of a cover 35 covering the drum 10. Between these two elements is located.

  <Desc / Clms Page number 18>

 ve a rubber ring 36 forming a seal. A timing pin 37 disposed in the central projection 38 of the cover 35 penetrates a slot 39 of the valve body 32 and prevents its rotation. A threaded ring 40 screwed into the upper end of protrusion 38 upwardly restricts movement of valve body 32. Cross member 24 has a short protrusion 41 perpendicular to it.



   Two bridge pieces 42 are carried by the cross member 24 and are provided with holes 43 into which penetrate pins 44 fixed to the projections 45 of the cover 35. These pins 44 have conical shoulders 46 which penetrate through corresponding cones 47 of the bridge pieces 42.



   Longitudinal channels 48 and 49 are cast in the cylindrical wall of the tank 17 (see figure 25) and allow the placement in one of them of a water tube 50, the other end 51 of which is connected to the. through a flexible hose to a water pipe. This tube 50 also comprises a control valve 52 disposed in a suitable position and its upper end is reduced in width and has a shape of a partially circular curve extending above the ceiling of the drum 10. This end 53 of the tube 50 is mounted inside the hollow part of the cross member 24. The other channel 49 protects the conductors of a multi-pad switch 54 and a safety switch 55.



   The housing serving as a bearing 16 carries a flange 56 perpendicular to the shaft 13. Rubber sleeves are mounted in protrusions of the flange 56 and in turn carry metal sleeves, and while the studs 60 are screwed into the projections provided at the base of the tank 17 and the plates provided with spring washers which are arranged below the nuts 64. When these nuts 64 are tightened against the metal sleeves,

   the flanges of the rubber sleeves are compressed to a certain extent and these rubber sleeves absorb shocks which would otherwise be transmitted directly from the rotating drum 10 if the products centrifuged therein were substantially unbalanced.
The bearing housing 16 is also provided with a base plate 66 cast on it and this plate 66 carries an electric motor 69 and an air pump 70 which can be either a compressor or a vacuum pump.



  The lower end of the motor shaft 69 is provided with a double groove pulley 71 from which a belt 72 operates a pulley 73 mounted at the lower end of the shaft 13. The other belt 74 controls a pulley 75 mounted on the pump shaft 76.



   The pump itself (figure 27) is of the vane type and is lubricated only by water. The shaft 76 is split at 77 to receive the two fins 78 constructed, for example, from a material based on synthetic resin. The upper end of the slot 77 is closed by means of a metal plug and the upper end of the shaft 76 is covered by a metal cap 81 pressed onto it. The cap 81, the stopper and the lower end of the slot 77 are provided with respective holes 82 and 83, the lower hole 83 of which communicates with a transverse bore 84 connected to a circular groove 85 of the lower cover 86 of the pump. . The top cover 87 includes the respective inlet and outlet ports 88 and 89, the first of which is connected to a supply pipe 90.



   The upper cover 87 is provided with a chamber 91 closed above by a cover 92. On the side of the chamber 91 is connected by a pipe 93, a flexible rubber tube which itself is connected by a second pipe 95. at the bottom of the tank bottom 17.



   Rubber rings' 96 and 97 are interposed between the pump body 98 (disposed eccentrically with respect to the rotor shaft 76) and the upper and lower covers and these three parts are assembled by means of the bolts 99. On the side of the pump body 98 is located

  <Desc / Clms Page number 19>

 ve a console 100 attached to the base plate - 66.



   A shoulder 102 of the shaft 76 comes into contact with a rubber ring disposed in a metal ring 104, the lower part of which carries a tongue and serves as a seat for a diaphragm seal using a carbon ring which is retained in it. a rubber housing 106 and is pressed against the seal ring 104 by means of a spring. The diaphragm seal itself is contained in a housing 108 screwed onto a projection 86 of the bottom cover. Water, used for lubrication, can descend between the fins 78 as they separate during rotation, so as to reach the annular groove 85. the motor 69 can be reversed by means of the switch 54 and One-way couplings are arranged so that either drum 10 or pump 70 operates when the motor is rotating in either direction.

   They have projecting jaws and are arranged as follows: the pulley 75 is idle on the shaft 76 and carries one end of a spiral spring 111 disposed around the hub of the pulley and around a sleeve 112 fixed on the shaft 76 by means of a pin 113 and a key. If the pulley 75 turns, in one direction, the spring 111 wound around the hub of the pulley and the sleeve, firmly serves the latter and transmits the torque to the shaft 76. If, however, the motor turns in the other direction, the spring 111 releases and slides freely on the sleeve 112. The same arrangement applies to the shaft 13 of the drum with the only difference that the spring is wound in the other direction so as to embrace the shaft of the drum when the motor rotates in the direction that releases the shaft control 76.



   A brake is arranged so as to come into contact with a disc 115 starting from the sleeve fixed on the shaft 13 and this brake is articulated to a brake lever 116 pivoting at one end on a bolt 117 fixed in a lug 118 starting from the discharge tube 21. The other end of the brake lever 116 is provided with a pedal 117 A and a spring 118 A normally keeps the brake away from the disc 115.



   The tube connections of the pump 70 as shown in the drawings are chosen so as to allow the pump to create a pressure greater than atmospheric pressure inside the drum 10. If it is desired to operate the pump. pump as vacuum pump, the connections
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The discharge pipe of the pump is connected to a flexible rubber tube 118 B which runs up the wall of the reservoir 17 and enters the hollow space existing below the cross member 24 where it is connected to a pipe 119 on a projection 120 cast on the cover 35.



  This projection also carries a pressure gauge 121.



   A spring 122 is housed within the cross member 24 and is calculated to support the full weight of the cross member and cover 35, which are connected thereto such that when the hook 25 is released from the spout 27, the spring 122 lifts the cover. The movement of the cover is limited by a lug 123 disposed at the rear of the cross member 24, and comes into contact with a stop face 124 on a ring 22.



   Means are provided to prevent rotation of the drum 10 while the cover is lowered on the upper face of the drum. The edge of the cover 35 ends with an apron 125 and the edge of this apron comes into contact with a disc 126 protruding from a cap 127 which slides on a tube 128 screwed onto the upper end of the channel 49 (figure 26).



  The tube 128 guides a piston 130 supported by a spring 131 and the lower end of the piston 130 contacts the piston 132 of the safety switch 55. By operating this switch, if the motor circuit 69 is set up to control the motor in a rotating direction

  <Desc / Clms Page number 20>

 drum, the circuit is cut off, whereas if the circuit is set in motion to turn the motor in the reverse direction, no action occurs.



   Another spring 133 tighter than spring 131 is housed in the cap 127 and tends to lift it as soon as the cover itself is lifted. The vertical movement of the cap 127 is limited by the ring 22.



   The operation of the machine is as follows when the cross member 24 and the cover 35 are open, the drum 10 is accessible and the wire basket 134 which is housed therein, can be removed by gripping it by the wire handles. 135, welded to the lid 136 of the container. The container is then filled with vegetables or other products to be treated, returned to the drum 10 and then the valve 52 is opened which causes the water to flow through the tubes 50 and 53 into the drum and ' fills it to the top. The space between the container lid 136 and the lid 35 is calculated so that the volume of the liquid contained therein is taken up by the plants during processing. If plants could occupy this space, this layer of plants would not become saturated with liquid.

   The valve 52 is then closed and the cross member 24 is replaced with the cover 35 which is connected thereto. After having hooked the hook and the bin 27, the handwheel 30 can then be maneuvered to lower the cover 35 on the upper face of the drum 10 by closing it tightly. Assuming that the pump 70 is functioning as a pressure pump, it is then operated by rotating the handle 137 of the switch 54 to the appropriate position, whereupon the pump increases the pressure inside the drum, sucks up air through the tube 90 connected to the container 17 from where a certain part of the water discharged from the drum 10, returns to the pump.

   When the pump is restarted for the next cycle, this water is pumped into chamber 91 which retains a certain part of it while the remainder passes into drum 10. During operation, the pump is continuously lubricated by the water retained in the container 91 from which it flows through the orifices 138 and 82 inside the pump, thus lubricating all the moving parts.



   After obtaining a suitable pressure above atmospheric pressure indicated by the pressure gauge 121, the handwheel 30 is turned in the other direction so as to lift the valve 32 from its seat, thereby allowing air to flow out. escape from the drum 10 to initiate the pressure variations which are essential in order to obtain satisfactory infiltration results. When the pressure is reduced to a desired value as indicated by the pressure gauge 121, the handwheel 30 is again turned to close the valve. Since the pump has been kept running all the time, the pressure in the drum 10 increases rapidly and the pressure changes continue until a sufficient amount of liquid has been infiltrated.

   If the pump is mounted to function as a vacuum pump, similar pressure changes below atmospheric pressure are obtained by opening or closing valve 32.



   At the end of the treatment, the handwheel 30 is completely rotated so as to lift the cover 35 and separate it from the drum.



   By lifting the cover, the safety switch 55 is released and the circuit is conditioned so that the motor rotates the drum 10. The pins 44 which also enter through their conical parts as soon as the cover is fully raised and wedge thus the cover against the cross member 24. This arrangement avoids the slamming and shaking of the cover due to the imbalance of the plants subjected to centrifugation.



   The cross member '24 is articulated with two ears 139 arranged on the ring 22 at one end, while the other end is guided between two wings 140, the upper ends of which are flared to help guide the cross member. 24 when it is closed.

  <Desc / Clms Page number 21>

 



   The handle of the switch 137 is then put in the appropriate position to rotate the drum 10. The water flows over the upper edge of the drum, is collected in the container 17 and discharged through the tube 21. The apron 125 of cover 35 directs the flow of water downward. As soon as most of the water is poured out, the speed of the drum increases and the plants are dried on the outside. If the drum speed is high enough, part or more. much of the infiltrated liquid can be removed while at the same time drying the surfaces of the plants. After a suitable time the motor is switched off and the drum slows down by bringing the brake into contact with the disc 115; the hook 25 is then released, the cover 35 opens and the plants are lifted from the drum 10.

   Unnecessary liquid filling the intercellular spaces of the plants can also be removed, instead of being centrifuged as mentioned above, by creating appropriate pressure variations inside the drum 10 itself) from which it has been removed. 'water.



  These pressure variations can be above or below atmospheric pressure.



   The plant illustrated in Figures 29 and 30 shows another example of continuous processing of vegetables in accordance with the invention and whereby large quantities can be kept fresh or recovered in a very short period of time. The method applied is that which uses pressure variations above or below atmospheric pressure.



   In this case, crates 352 containing lettuce or other vegetables should be processed in such quantities that it is not necessary to open the crates. The operation is as follows: The boxes 352 pass from a neck 353 or a roller conveyor on a horizontal platform 354 above and below which pass a pair of conveyor chains 355 driven by sprockets 356 appropriate.



  Drive bars 357 are mounted on the conveyor chain so that they pass over the top surface of the platform and are arranged so that when they emerge from the underside of the platform. form, they are arranged on the rear face of one of the boxes 352, and cause it to advance along the platform. The control of the conveyor chain is not continuous but takes place in stages of determined duration so as to give the chain a step by step movement. As soon as one of the crates arrives at a point near the middle of the platform, the movement of the chain stops and the chain returns a little backwards a sufficient distance to move the drive bar away from the back of the platform. the box.

   A bell 358 then descends above the body, and is provided at its lower part with a ring of rubber seal 359. The bell 358 is pressed against the table, one introduced inside the chamber. bell through tube 361 a determined quantity of water which completely fills the bell and then the water supply is cut off. A pressure higher or lower than atmospheric pressure is then applied by introducing air or by sucking air through the pipe 360 by suitable means, such as a pump. Pressure variations above or below atmospheric pressure can then be produced by any of the methods already described and until a sufficient quantity of liquid has penetrated and saturated the intercellular spaces. .

   After the infiltration is complete, the bell is lifted from the platform, returned to its previous raised position, and the water is discharged to the sewer in a suitable manner.



   If it is desired to remove some of the infiltrated water, the bell 358 is lowered again, it is brought into contact with the upper face of the platform 354 and an air pressure or a vacuum is applied through it. the pipe 360, while the pipe 361 remains closed.



   It is also possible to produce variations in pressure or vacuum and when the internal draining is complete, the bell 358 is raised again.



  The conveyor chain resumes its movement, and pushes the crate along the platform on a vibrator. The latter consists of a table ho-

  <Desc / Clms Page number 22>

 horizontal (or inclined) 362, operated in a known manner, eg by means of a connecting rod 363 fixed to the table which is supported by inclined spring arms, so as to impart to the table a shaking movement also taking a small movement upward pet verso; leutbas @ lo @ from the top surface of the table. This movement moves the crates along the table to lead them to their final destination.

   The shaking motion is at the same time combined so that the crates receive sufficient vibrations to remove most of the water adhering to the outer surfaces of the vegetables and contained in the hollow pockets formed in the vegetables but without causing damage. to the
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In cases where water from pipes is available without sufficient pressure and in sufficient quantity, a simplified machine can be used which does not require an electric control. The machine is very efficient, the time required for a complete cycle varies from 5 to 10 minutes and the applied infiltration process is one that uses pressure variations below atmospheric pressure. The arrangement may be similar to that shown in Figure 31, provided with an ejector pump disposed at the top of the outer casing, and the pressurized water, after passing through the ejector, can be discharged. to the sewer by a discharge pipe.

   In this case, a three-way valve can be used for adjusting the water flow. This valve can have a position in which the water is cut off, another position in which the water flows through a tube and fills the hollow body and a third position allowing the water to pass through the ejector. . This principle, with certain modifications, is shown in Figures 31 to 35. The machine comprises a hollow body in the form of a drum 150 of a slightly conical shape, the largest diameter of which is disposed at the top. open. At the lower part of the closed bottom there is a set of curved vanes 151 arranged in a circular ring.

   The open sum t of the drum is provided with a ring of rubber 152 or other suitable material, on which rests a cover 153 hinged to an outer casing 154. The hinge 155 is disposed so as to allow the cover to perform a limited movement in vertical direction. This cover is attached by a crank 156 to a cross member 157 extending from one end to the other of the hinged cover
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 â the envelopppel5.'f'àéarémt-é. è'venant'BDjcorlactÈoBonextremiter1i- ber with a: screw l58 "iliogated 'in'. hook: 159which 'p # irote:; on .1'¯enroelopél5 i, g, cvërc.snpoecégs.einen; you otpapeede-this : age 68 provided with a spring, and peukêtoo're! etré 'atr: average with "a .handle 161.



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   The cover is provided with a crown protruding downwards 162. which has a diameter such that it can be placed near the inner wall of the casing 154. The purpose of this crown is to prevent liquid from spilling when the cover is lifted and the hollow drum is rotated to empty it.



   Inside the annular space 163 between the hollow drum and the outer casing is mounted a multi-position piston valve 164 (Figures 34 and 35), the cylindrical piston 165 of which carries a passage 166, directed following part of its axis then which then rotates at a right angle radially towards the periphery.



   The piston is provided with a handle 167 by means of which it can be rotated in several determined positions, and it can be maintained in any of these positions by means of a spring piston. A water supply line 168 is connected to the bottom of the valve body and extends around the space 163. The other end of the line 168 is connected to the water supply line by a flexible pipe through a valve 169.

  <Desc / Clms Page number 23>

 



   The body 170 of the valve carries four radial ports, one of which 171 is connected to a tube 172 directed upwards, the end of which is curved and directed towards the drum. The next lumen 173 is connected by a pipe 174 to the discharge line of an ejector pump 175 which opens through a funnel-shaped tube 176 into the outer casing, the suction line is connected by a flexible pipe 177 to the underside of the cover 153 and is extended from there by a duct 178 giving access to the interior of the drum. A vacuum indicator 179 is installed at this location.

   The next lumen 180 of the valve body is connected to a downwardly directed pipe 181 which then rotates at an angle such that a nozzle 182 attached to its end directs a jet of water against the front face of the valve. vanes 151 at the bottom of the drum. The last opening of the valve body is connected to a pipe 184 carrying a nozzle 185 arranged to send a jet of water against the back of the curved vanes 151.



   During operation, when the cover 153 is open., A container 186 of perforated metal or other material, filled with plants to be treated, can be introduced into the drum. By operating the lever 167 of the valve 164, so as to connect the line 166 to the filling pipe 172, the water flows through this tube into the drum which is thus filled to the top. The lever of the valve piston is then turned to its next position in which the line 166 is not opposite any of the ports; so that the water flow is interrupted. The drum cover is then closed and pressed against the rubber ring seal 152 by means of the screw 158, which is tightened.

   The stalk 167 is then moved so as to connect the line 166 of the valve to the next port 173. Pressurized water then enters the ejector pump 175, and thus produces a vacuum inside the drum. . The water flows through the discharge tube 176; and proceeds from there into the outer casing and to a discharge opening 187. After producing a sufficiently high vacuum in the drum, the body of the discharge valve 160 is opened by pulling the handle 161 until that the vacuum is sufficiently reduced. This is the case when a vacuum equivalent to a column of mercury of 125 mm. is reached, which can be seen on the empty indicator 179.

   The relief valve is then allowed to close again under the action of its spring, resulting in the ejector, which has been kept in operation, producing a further increase in vacuum. These pressure variations below atmospheric pressure are very effective in forcing water to saturate the intercellular spaces and are continued until saturation is complete. After this operation the handle of the valve is turned further towards the next light 180; at this time, the flow of water is once again interrupted, because the line 166 is blocked.



  The relief valve 160 is then opened, the screw 158 of the hook 159 is unscrewed and the drum cover is lifted from the rubber seal by means of three spring pistons 188 mounted in the outer casing.



  The handle 167 of the valve is then rotated towards the next port 180, which results in pressurized water flowing through the tube 181 and the nozzle 182 and projecting onto the front face of the blades. 151 of the turbine, by imparting movement to the hollow drum, which begins to spin rapidly.



   The ball bearing carrying the shaft 189 of the hollow drum is housed in a bearing shell 190 mounted on the underside of the outer shell; the bearings are submerged in oil, and the casing is protected against the ingress of water by a cap 191 mounted on the shaft and extending substantially above the top of the bearing housing 190. A tubing 192 rises from the bottom of the outer casing and is covered by a similar tubing 193 descending from the central part of the bottom of the hollow drum.



  * The high speed rotating drum throws all of the water it contains over its upper edge from where it flows to the discharge opening, and after gaining speed, the surfaces of

  <Desc / Clms Page number 24>

 plants are dried by centrifugation. If desired, a sufficient speed can be achieved to remove some or most of the liquid which has served to fill the intercellular spaces of the plants.



  Or it is possible to produce variations in the vacuum inside the drum to achieve the internal emptying.



   By manipulating the handle 167 of the valve to connect it to the last lumen 183, a jet of water is directed by the nozzle 185 against the back of the vanes 151 and thus slows down the rotary movement of the drum. As soon as this movement is stopped or sufficiently delayed, the handle of the valve is turned to the stop position for which the pipe 166 is disposed vis-à-vis the face 194 which stops the flow of water. Lift the drum cover, remove the basket containing the treated plants and insert and process another basket containing untreated products (.



   If the water supply is not suitable both in terms of quantity and pressure, a small water pump 195 controlled by an electric motor 196 can be used. This pump receives through its suction inlet the pump. water from a reservoir 197 disposed below the bottom of the outer casing and is connected by means of a screen 198 inside the casing. The pump delivery line opens through a pipe 199 at the inlet of the valve body. The valve can be arranged so that the filling of the drum through the tube 172, directed upwards, can be effected by means of an instantaneous supply, while the other operations to be carried out are by means of water under pressure supplied by the pump 195.



   Another construction is shown in Figures 36-38 and constitutes a much simpler apparatus for treating small quantities of plants at a time. The method applied is the same as that just described, and comprises an ejector pump composed of a straight tubular body 200 connected at one end to a flexible pipe 201, resulting in a mains water tap providing water under pressure. The water discharges at the opposite end where a rubber molded part 202 with a screen 203 is provided to reduce the amperage.

   Internally, the tube 200 has a narrow constriction 204 at about the middle of its length, in which a high vacuum is created which draws air through a radial orifice 205 communicating with the underside of a metal disc. forming an integral part of the tube 200 and constituting the body of the ejection pump.



  Internally the tube tapers from each end towards the constriction 204 and on the inlet side the tube has an inner shoulder 205 adjacent to the constriction. Also fixed to the lower part of the disc 206 is a rubber washer 207 provided with an opening 208 disposed vis-à-vis the radial hole 205 and a protective screen may be provided to protect the hole.



   If the disc is placed on a pot 209 containing the plants submerged in water, and the ejector pump is operated while at the same time pushing the disc gently against the crown of the pot, a vacuum will occur at the same time. inside the pot, and sucks the disc firmly onto the pot, thus forming a perfect seal. After having produced a sufficiently high vacuum, the pressurized water access is throttled or cut off by more or less closing the water tap controlling this access. The action of the ejector pump is reduced or stopped and air is drawn into the pot through the open end of the tube, thereby reducing the vacuum inside.

   We repeat the opening and closing of the tap until the plants are sufficiently saturated with water.
In another construction shown in Figures 39 to 41 which is suitable for use in the household for the treatment of small quantities of plants and where water under pressure is not available, the apparatus comprises a small hand pump built to provide a vacuum of up to 725 mm Hg. to replace the ejector. This apparatus comprises a disc 210 provided on its underside with a rubber washer.

  <Desc / Clms Page number 25>

   chouc 211, an opening 212 as well as a protective screen as in the construction described last.

   Above the disc, and connected to it, is a tubing 213 provided on one side with a reinforcement 214 intended to receive the cylinder 215 of the hand pump which contains a piston 216 provided with a nozzle in. leather 217 and a piston rod 218. The other end of the rod 218 slides into the cover 219 attached to the opposite end of the cylinder. The cover 219 is held in place by means of two screws 220 which penetrate the threads of two ears 221 attached to the disc.



   When the handle 222 is pulled from the piston rod, air is sucked into the cylinder 215 through a narrow channel 223 made in the tubing. 213, and a slot 224 provided in a rubber valve fitted with a valve. - shoulder 225, and this slot however closes automatically in the return flow, during which the air passes between the cylinder 215 and the leather fitting 217. The cylinder is provided with an opening 226 adjacent to the handle to let air escape when you pull the handle.

   After obtaining the necessary vacuum, a relief screw 227, regulating the passage of air through the tubing and the disc, is rotated slightly to raise the head of the screw above the washer 228 resting on the end of the air passage 223 and allow air to enter through this passage into the pot 229 containing the plants.



   The operation can be repeated until a sufficient quantity of water has seeped into the plants. Unnecessary liquid can be removed from the plants by emptying the jar of liquid, placing the lid back on it and creating a vacuum as described above. This operation can be repeated both in the present construction and in the previous construction until a sufficient quantity of liquid has been removed from the plants. When this treatment is completed, the outer surfaces of the plants can be dried by rotating them very quickly in a small centrifugal machine which in this case can be operated by hand or by foot.



   It is also possible to produce infiltration without immersing the plants in water, by means of a fog, that is to say a dispersion of small particles of water suspended in the air. Several methods exist to obtain these mists which contain a comparatively high percentage of liquid per cubic meter of air. If you produce a mist like this in a room with plants. and if the chamber is subsequently subjected to a high vacuum, or if this mist is introduced into a high vacuum chamber, containing plants, and then the vacuum is removed, the mist enters the intercellular spaces where its liquid content condenses. The repetition of these operations brings about very high saturations of the intercellular spaces of the plants.

   Alternatively, fog can still be pumped into the chamber containing the plants, thereby increasing the pressure in the chamber to above atmospheric pressure. By releasing this excess pressure, the liquid contained in the intercellular spaces will condense there. It is also possible to use in the same way air containing a very high degree of humidity, preferably close to 100%, in particular when the products are at a temperature lower than that of air, thus facilitating condensation in the intercellular spaces. These procedures are recommended in cases where the plants are not to be submerged in water.



  The process is made more efficient by using variations in pressure, either above or below atmospheric pressure.



   CLAIMS.

** ATTENTION ** end of DESC field can contain start of CLMS **.


    

Claims (1)

1 / A method for preventing wilting of plants and for restoring withered plants their complete freshness, characterized in that the plants are brought into contact with a liquid subjected to any pressure condition chosen from among several, so that the liquid is forced to penetrate partially to completely into the intercellular spaces of plants. <Desc / Clms Page number 26> 2 / A method according to claim 1, characterized in that the pressure condition is achieved by the action of centrifugal force on the liquid. 3 / A method according to claim l ', characterized in that the pressure condition is achieved by the action of the kinetic energy of the liquid. 4 / A method according to claim 1, characterized in that the pressure condition consists of the application of a static pressure greater than atmospheric pressure. 5 / A method according to claim 1, characterized in that the pressure condition consists of pressure variations above atmospheric pressure. 6 / A method according to claim 1, characterized in that the pressure condition consists of pressure variations above or below atmospheric pressure or vice versa. 7 / A method according to claim 1, characterized in that the pressure condition consists of pressure waves produced in the liquid. 8 / A method according to claim 1, characterized in that the plants to be treated are introduced into a closed container, in which a gas containing a liquid is introduced either below or above the saturation point and in wherein the gas is subjected to a pressure above or below atmospheric pressure or to pressure changes above or below atmospheric pressure. 9 / A method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the pressure condition is applied repeatedly one or more times at appropriate time intervals to maintain the plants in their state of. super-turgor. 10 / A method for preventing wilting of plants and for restoring wilted plants to their complete freshness according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that a part or the greater part of the liquid which has penetrated into the intercellular spaces of plants is subsequently removed. The method of claim 10, characterized in that part or most of the liquid is removed from the intercellular spaces by exposing the plants to atmospheric conditions which favor the natural evaporation of the liquid. 12 / A method according to claim 10, characterized in that part or most of the liquid is withdrawn from the intercellular spaces by subjecting the plants to the action of centrifugal force. 13 / A method according to claim 12, characterized in that the plants are introduced into a rotating drum which does not contain any liquid and the drum is rotated around its axis so that the plants move at a speed. of 10 meters per second or more. 14 / A method according to claim 10, characterized in that part or most of the liquid is removed from the intercellular spaces by subjecting the plants to a pressure greater than atmospheric pressure. 15 / A method according to claim 14, characterized in that the plants are placed in a closed chamber containing no liquid and that a pressure of 1.4 kg is applied to the chamber. per cm. square or greater. 16 / A method according to claim 10, characterized in that part or most of the liquid is removed from the intercellular spaces of the plants by subjecting the plants to the action of a vacuum. <Desc / Clms Page number 27> 17 / A method according to claim 16, characterized in that the plants are introduced into a closed chamber containing no liquid and that a vacuum is applied inside the chamber equivalent to a column of -368 mercury. mm. or more. 18 / A method according to claim 10, characterized in that part or most of the liquid is removed by subjecting the plants to pressure variations. 19 / A method according to claim 18, characterized in that the plants are introduced into a closed chamber containing no liquid and that pressure variations are applied inside the chamber either above or below the atmospheric pressure. 20 / A method according to claim 10, characterized in that part or most of the liquid is removed from the intercellular spaces of the plants by subjecting the plants to mechanical oscillations and vibrations. 21 / A method according to claim 10, characterized in that part or most of the liquid is removed from the intercellular spaces of the plants by subjecting the plants to the action of a current of air. 22 / A method according to claim 21, characterized in that the air flow has a speed of 7 meters per second or more. 23 / A method according to any one of claims 10 to 22, characterized in that the liquid is withdrawn from the intercellular spaces of the plants repeatedly one or more times at the appropriate time intervals. 24. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 23, characterized in that the outer surfaces of the plants are dried after treatment - 25 / A method according to claim 24, characterized in that the drying of the outer surfaces is carried out by subjecting the plants to the action of centrifugal force. 26 / A method according to claim 24, characterized in that the outer surfaces of the plants are dried by subjecting the plants to mechanical oscillations or vibrations. 27 / A method according to claim 24, characterized in that the outer surfaces of the plants are dried by subjecting the plants to the action of a rapid air current. 28 / A method according to any one of claims 1 to 27, characterized in that the plants are maintained in a cool atmosphere after the treatment or between successive treatments. 29 / A method according to claim 28, characterized in that the air is maintained inside the storage chamber in a range of:! Temperature ranging from 0 C to 15 C. 30 / A method according to claim 28, characterized in that there is provided means for maintaining a high degree of humidity in the storage chamber. 31 / Machine for carrying out the processes according to claims 1, 2, 12 and 25 characterized in that it comprises a drum capable of containing the plants and a liquid, mounted so as to be able to rotate around a vertical shaft ; a shaft passing through the drum upwards and capable of adapting in a removable manner to a cover of the drum, by providing means of assembly between the cover and the shaft so that the cover is applied in a sealed manner on the drum. 32 / Machine for carrying out the processes according to any one of claims 1, 2, 12 and 25, characterized in that it comprises a drum capable of containing the plants and a liquid, mounted so as to <Desc / Clms Page number 28> see rotating around a vertical shaft, which crosses the drum upwards and adapts in a removable manner to a cover of the drum, by providing means of assembly between the cover and the shaft so that the cover fits tightly to the drum, and means for raising the cover a limited distance while the drum continues to rotate to allow liquid to escape from the drum. 33 / Machine for carrying out the processes according to any one of claims 1, 2, 9 to 12, 23 to 25, characterized in that it comprises a drum capable of containing the plants and a liquid, mounted from my - nere to be able to turn around a vertical axis, a movable valve mounted radially on the drum, able to adjust a slot provided in the wall of the drum provided with a rod directed radially and connected to a spring-loaded lever mounted on a pivot outside the drum, and means mounted on an outer casing surrounding the drum capable of being periodically controlled to operate the lever during the rotation of the drum so as to periodically open and close the valve. 34 / Machine according to claim 33, characterized in that these means comprise a pair of curved guides mounted circumferentially inside the outer casing and capable of moving separately on the path of a roller supported by the lever so that this lever pivots and opens or closes the valve depending on whether one or the other of the guides is in contact with the roller. 35 / Machine for carrying out the processes according to claims 1, 2, 9 to 12,. And 23 to 25, characterized in that it comprises a drum capable of containing liquid and mounted so as to be able to rotate around it. 'a vertical axis, a pair of vertical shafts mounted so as to be able to rotate inside the drum and arranged symmetrically with respect to the axis of rotation of the drum, each shaft carrying a number of radially arranged arms capable of to support at their ends perforated containers intended to receive the plants; a gear [connecting these shafts to a control shaft which passes through a hollow shaft controlling the drum, and means for slowing down the control shaft so that the vertical shafts are given a relative rotational movement by relative to the drum by imparting to the containers inside the drum a rotational movement around the vertical shafts while the drum is itself driven in a rotational movement. 36 / Machine according to claim 35, characterized in that a gear is associated with each of the arms of the vertical shafts of the drum adapted to cooperate with a gear disposed on the inner wall so as to impart to the containers a relative rotational movement around their own axes at the same time as a rotational movement around the axis of the drum. 37 / Apparatus for the application of the methods according to claims 1 or 3 characterized in that it comprises a hollow tubular body, one of the ends of which carries a lumen suitable for being connected to a liquid supply tube under pressure, the other end of this body being provided with a small lumen allowing the escape of the liquid in the form of a fine jet, the arrangement being such that the speed with which the liquid is projected against the plants; n ' is not less than 4 meters per second. 38 / Apparatus for the application of the method according to claims 1 to 3 characterized in that it comprises a hollow tubular element, a rod extending from one of its ends, a conical disc disposed at the end of the rod and a sleeve mounted adjustable on the tubular member and surrounding the rod and disc, the end of this. sleeve carrying a lumen forming with the disc a narrow annular outlet for allowing the liquid under pressure to escape in the form of a fine jet, the arrangement being such that the speed at which the liquid is projected on the plants is not . not less than 4 meters per second. <Desc / Clms Page number 29> 39 / Apparatus for the application of the method according to claims 1¯ or 3, characterized in that it comprises a hollow rubber body clamped between a pair of articulated plates and suitable for being connected at one end to a pressurized water supply line, the hollow body carrying therein a transverse passage terminating in a narrow slit at the end opposite to that suitable for connection to the water line. 40 / Apparatus for the application of the method according to claims 1 or 3 characterized in that it comprises an air jet spray gun comprising a narrow constriction in communication with a tube which enters a liquid container so sucking liquid from this container and spraying it by means of the gun, the arrangement being designed so that the speed at which the particles of liquid are projected against the plants is not less than 4 meters per second. 41 / Apparatus for the application of the method according to claims 1 or 3 characterized in that it comprises a spray gun with two air sectors disposed one above the other, the lower ejector The first part being connected to a liquid container so as to suck liquid in and spray it into the gun, a control valve being provided for the supply of air to the two ejectors so that it can be used. A clean air ejector or a liquid atomizing ejector, the arrangement being so designed that the speed at which the jet is projected against the plants is not less than 4 meters per second. 42 / Apparatus for applying the method according to claims 1, 4, 9 to 11, 14, 15, 18 and 24, characterized in that it comprises a hollow body capable of containing the plants and a liquid, a removable cover adapted to be applied in an airtight manner on an opening arranged at the top of the body and a tube connecting the interior of this body to a pump capable of increasing the pressure inside the body. 43 / Apparatus for the application of the method according to any one of claims 1, 5, 7, 9 to 119 characterized in that it comprises a container suitable for containing plants and a liquid, a removable cover able to be applied in an airtight manner on an opening of the receptacle, a tube connecting the interior of the receptacle to a liquid reservoir, arranged in a raised position relative to the receptacle, a control valve in the tube between the container and the reservoir and a hydraulic ram connected to an extension of the tube beyond the container. 44 / Machine for the application of the method according to any one of claims l, 5, 6, 7, 9 to 19, 23 to 25, characterized in that it comprises a hollow body carrying an open end capable of receive the plants and a liquid, a closure element to close the opening and form a tight seal on the body, a tube connecting the interior of the body to a pump, capable of increasing or decreasing the pressure inside the body. 45 / Machine for the application of the method according to any one of claims 1, 5, 6, 7, 9 to 19, 23 to 25, characterized in that it comprises a drum suitable for receiving the plants and the liquid so as to be able to rotate around a vertical shaft, the interior of the drum being connected by a tube to a lumen of a two-way valve, capable of oscillating or rotating around its axis and of which two other lumens are respectively connected to the suction and delivery pipes of a pump, able to increase or decrease the pressure inside the drum. 46 / Machine according to claim 45, characterized in that it comprises a drum suitable for containing the plants and a liquid, mounted so as to be able to rotate around a vertical hollow shaft, the lower end of which is connected by a one-lumen tube of a two-way valve capable of oscillating or rotating around its axis, two other lumens of the valve being respectively connected to the suction and discharge pipes of a pump capable of increasing or reducing the pressure at inside the drum, a tube connected to one end of the hollow shaft is <Desc / Clms Page number 30> extending upwards inside the drum and a valve regulated by a float inside the drum, adapted to adjust the opening of the drum cover above which is placed a liquid container. 47 / Machine for the application of the method according to any one of claims 1, 5, 6, 9 to 19, 23 to 25, characterized in that it comprises a hollow body provided with an opening capable of containing plants and a liquid, a closure element adapted to close the opening and to close a tight seal on a lumen arranged on the body or on the body the closure element adjusted by a valve capable of allowing variations in pressure inside the hollow body by operating the light adjustment valve, means for rotating the body around an axis fixed relative to the body and pumping means connected to the body and making it possible to increase or decrease the pressure inside the body. 48 / Machine according to claim 47, characterized in that it comprises a drum open above., Mounted so as to be able to rotate about a vertical axis in an outer container and carrying a cover for closing its open end which is supported by a cross member mounted on a pivot on the outer container and is provided with a lumen adjusted by a valve and means for manual operation of the lumen adjustment valve arranged so as to be able to lift and lower the cover . 49 / Machine according to claims 47 or 48, characterized in that the drum is controlled by an electric motor which also controls the pumping means, one-way couplings operating in opposite fashion being included in the control of the drum and pumping means and a safety switch being provided mounted on the outer container and able to be operated by the drum cover so that the electric circuit controlling the motor in the proper direction to control the drum is rendered inoperative for as long that the cover is on the drum. 50 / Machine according to any one of claims 47 to 49, characterized in that it comprises a vane pump having a pair of vanes mounted so as to be able to slide on a rotor disposed eccentrically inside a outer casing, a water reservoir above the casing, and passages in the casing and in the rotor to allow water to descend between the inner walls of the vanes to lubricate all sliding parts of the pump. 51 / Apparatus for the application of the method according to any one of claims 1, 4, 5, 9 to 11, 14 to 23, 24, 26, 27, 28 to 30, charac- terized in that it comprises a conveyor for bringing crates or the like plant containers along a horizontal platform, a bell-shaped chamber mounted above the platform and connected to a supply of liquid, pumping means operatively connected to the chamber to increase or decrease the pressure in the chamber and means for lowering the chamber so as to cover a crate or other container disposed on the platform. chamber then applying in a way, forming a watertight seal on the platform so that it can be filled with liquid and the pressure inside it can be increased or decreased. 52 / Apparatus according to claim 51, characterized in that the conveyor is controlled by a step-by-step movement and stops periodically so as to have a crate or the like below the chamber. 53 / Apparatus according to claims. 51 or 52, characterized in that the crates pass from the platform * to a vibrator comprising a horizontal table animated by a horizontal reciprocating movement and a vertical movement towards the top. up and down. 54 / Machine for applying the method according to any one of claims 1, 2, 6, 9 to 13, 16, 17, 23 to 25, characterized in that <Desc / Clms Page number 31> that it comprises a hollow body-carrying an opening and' adapted to contain plants and a liquid, an element for closing the opening and closing the opening and forming a tight seal on the body which is provided with turbine blades actuated by pressurized water so as to rotate the body about an axis fixed relative to the body, and pumping means operatively connected to the body to increase or decrease the pressure to inside the body. 55 / Machine according to claim 54, characterized in that the pumping means comprise an ejector or an ejector tip actuated by pressurized water. 56. Machine according to claims 54 or 55, characterized in that it has a. single valve with multiple lumens for adjusting the operation of the turbine blades and the pump, filling the hollow body with water and stopping the rotational movement of the hollow body. 57 / Apparatus for iapplication of the method according to any one of claims 1, 6.9 to 11, 16, 17 to 19, 23, 24, characterized in that it comprises a disc-shaped plate adapted to adapt in an airtight manner on the upper edge of a container containing the plants and a liquid carrying a lumen communicating with the constricted part of an ejector tip fixed to the plate and adapted to be supplied with liquid under pressure so as to suck air from the container through the lumen. 58 / Apparatus for applying the method according to any one of claims 1, 6.9 to 11, 16 to 19, 23 and 24, characterized in that it comprises a disk-shaped plate suitable for. forming an airtight seal on the top edge of a container for plants and liquid, a piston-type pump attached to the plate and the suction line of which communicates with an opening in the plate so that air can be drawn from the container and a valve associated with this opening allows access of outside air into the container. 59 / Process for preventing the wilting of plants and for restoring to wilted plants their substantially complete freshness as described with reference to the accompanying drawings and as shown in these drawings. 60 / Apparatus for treating plants to prevent their wilting and to restore wilted plants to their substantially complete freshness as described with reference to Figures 1, 1A, and 1B and as shown in these figures. 61 / Apparatus for the treatment of plants to prevent their withering and to restore wilted plants to their substantially complete freshness as described with reference to figures, 2, 3 and 4 and as shown in these figures. 62 / Apparatus for the treatment of plants to prevent their wilting and to restore wilted plants to their complete freshness, substantially as described with reference to figures 5, 6, 7 and 8 and as shown in these figures. 63 / Apparatus for treating plants to prevent their wilting and to restore wilted plants to their full freshness, substantially as described with reference to Figures 9, 10, 11, 12 and 13 and as shown in these figures. 64 / Apparatus for treating plants to prevent their wilting and restore wilted plants to their complete freshness, substantially as described with reference to Figures 14 and 15 and as shown in these figures. 65 / Apparatus for treating plants to prevent their wilting and to restore wilted plants to their complete freshness, substantially as described with reference to figure 16 and as shown in that figure. <Desc / Clms Page number 32> 66 / Apparatus for the treatment of plants to prevent their wilting and to restore wilted plants to their complete freshness, substantially as described with reference to figure 17 and as shown in that figure. 67 / Apparatus for the treatment of plants to prevent their withering and to restore wilted plants to their complete freshness, substantially as described with reference to Figures 18, 19 and 20 and as shown in these figures. 68 / Apparatus for the treatment of plants to prevent their wilting and to restore to wilted plants their complete freshness, substantially as described with reference to figures 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27 and 28. 69 / Apparatus for the treatment of plants to prevent their wilting and to restore wilted plants to their substantially complete freshness as described with reference to Figures 29 and 30 and as shown in these figures. 70 / Apparatus for the treatment of plants to prevent their withering and to restore wilted plants to their complete freshness, substantially as described with reference to Figures 31, 32, 33, 34 and 35 and as shown in these figures. 71 / Apparatus for the treatment of plants to prevent their wilting and to restore wilted plants to their complete freshness, substantially as described with reference to Figures 36,37 and 38 and as shown in these figures. 72 / Apparatus for the treatment of plants to prevent their withering and to restore wilted plants to their complete freshness, substantially as described with reference to Figures 39, 40 and 41 and as shown in these figures. in appendix 17 drawings.