WO2004080159A1

WO2004080159A1 - Fruit harvester

Info

Publication number: WO2004080159A1
Application number: PCT/AU2004/000303
Authority: WO
Inventors: Norman Louis Bourguignon
Original assignee: Norman Louis Bourguignon
Priority date: 2003-03-14
Filing date: 2004-03-12
Publication date: 2004-09-23
Also published as: AU2003901163A0

Abstract

A fruit harvester (1) comprising: a support member (6); a plurality of elongate members (10) for contact with limbs of a fruit bearing plant, the elongate members (10) being mounted to the support member (6) so that they extend away from the support member; a mechanical coupling to allow oscillation of the support member; and wherein said oscillation of the support member is transmitted to the elongate members.

Description

FRUIT HARVESTER FIELD OF THE .INVENTION

The invention relates to a- fruit harvester. DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART A number of attempts have been made to provide machines for harvesting fruit by shaking trees or beating branches so that fruit falls for collection. Many such machines are mechanically complex and/or expensive which makes them inappropriate for use on small farms or orchards. Furthermore, many prior art harvesters cause considerable undesirable damage to fruit being harvested. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to the present invention, there is provided a fruit harvester comprising: a support member; a plurality of elongate members for contact with limbs of a fruit-bearing plant, the elongate members being mounted to the support member so that they extend away from the support member; a mechanical coupling to allow oscillation of the support member; and wherein said oscillation of the support member is transmitted to the elongate members.

Preferably, the oscillation is substantially reciprocating motion.

Preferably, the harvester includes a main frame member .

Preferably, the support member is coupled to, and able to oscillate relative to, the main frame member. Preferably the or each support member is somewhat bowed in shape to conform approximately to part of the circumference of a tree.

Preferably, there is provided a first support member and a second support member.

Preferably, the first and second support members support respective- first and second pluralities of elongate members . The second support member may be the main frame member, but is preferably a distinct support member able to move relative to the main frame member.

Preferably, each of the first and second pluralities of elongate members is provided in the form of a substantially linear array of elongate members.

Preferably, the distance between adjacent elongate members of the or each plurality of elongate members is between approximately three percent and approximately ten percent of the length of the corresponding support member.

In one embodiment the spacing between the elongate member is approximately six percent of the length of the corresponding support member.

Preferably, in use, the first support member oscillates with substantially reciprocating motion relative to the second support member.

Preferably, in use, elongate members of the first plurality of elongate members are oscillated substantially laterally. Preferably, in use, elongate members of the first plurality of elongate members move substantially laterally relative to elongate members of the second plurality of elongate members .

Preferably, in use, elongate members of the first and second pluralities of elongate members are oscillated laterally by oscillation of the first and second support members .

Preferably, the lateral oscillation of elongate members of the first and second pluralities of elongate members is substantially reciprocating.

Preferably? the lateral oscillations of the -first and second pluralities are out of phase. Preferably, the lateral oscillation of the first and second pluralities are approximately 180° out of phase. Preferably, the elongate members of the or each plurality of elongate members oscillate laterally with an amplitude of the same order as the average spacing between the adjacent elongate members of the said plurality of elongate members. That is, the amplitude of the oscillation is preferably between approximately 10 percent and approximately 1000 percent of the said average spacing. Preferably, the amplitude is between approximately 50 percent and approximately 200 percent of the average spacing.

Preferably, at least one support member oscillates with an amplitude between approximately one percent and approximately twenty percent of the length of the said support member .

Preferably, the amplitude is between approximately 3 percent and approximately 12 percent of the length of said support member. Preferably, substantially all of the elongate members of the first plurality of elongate members have a respective elongate member of the second plurality of elongate members, adapted, in use, to force and/or impact the same limb of a plant. Preferably, in use, a part of a fruit-bearing plant which is positioned between two elongate members of the first plurality of elongate members is forced and/or impacted by at least one of said two elongate members and is forced and/or impacted by at least one of the elongate members .of the second plurality of elongate members.

Preferably,- in use, the -part of a fruit-bearing plant is forced and/or impacted in a first direction by at least one elongate member of the first plurality of elongate members, and is forced and/or impacted in a second substantially opposite direction, by at least one elongate member of the second plurality of elongate members . Preferably, in use, the harvester acts upon at least one part of a plant with a substantially scissoring or shearing action.

Preferably, the action is adapted to harvest fruit without excessive damage to fruit or the plant from which the fruit is harvested.

Preferably, the first and second support members are substantially mutually parallel.

Preferably, the first and second support members are adapted, in use, to oscillate relative to each other. Preferably, the elongate members of the first plurality of elongate members extend away from the first support member.

Preferably, at least some of the elongate members of the first plurality of elongate members extend in generally the same direction.

Preferably, substantially all of the elongate members of the first plurality of members extend in generally the same direction.

Preferably, the elongate members of the first plurality of elongate members are substantially mutually parallel .

Preferably, the elongate members of the second plurality of elongate members are substantially mutually parallel .

Preferably, the elongate members of the second plurality of elongate members extend in substantially the same direction as the elongate members of the first plurality of elongate members.

Preferably, the elongate members of the second plurality of elongate members are substantially parallel to the elongate members of the first plurality of elongate members . Preferably, each of the elongate members is, in use, attached to a support member so that the attachment allows no substantial relative movement between the attached part of the elongate member and the support member. In a preferred embodiment, the elongate members have a degree of flexibility, so despite the nature of the connection, the distal ends of the elongate members may move relative to the support member.

Preferably, the elongate members of the second plurality of elongate members are moved, by oscillation of the second support mem e , in a direction substantially perpendicular to their length.

Preferably, the elongate members of the first plurality of elongate members lie substantially in a first plane. Preferably, the elongate members of the second plurality of elongate members lie substantially in a second plane.

Preferably, the first and second planes are substantially parallel. Preferably, the first and second planes are spaced apart by a distance which is smaller than the length of at least one of the first and second support members . Preferably, the first and second support members are spaced apart so that the displacement between them is substantially- in the direction perpendicular to the planes in which the first and second pluralities of elongate members lie.

Preferably, in use, at least one elongate member of the first plurality of elongate members moves laterally past at least one elongate member of the second plurality of elongate members as the first and second support members move relative to each other.

Preferably, in use, a substantial number of the elongate members of the first plurality of elongate members move laterally past respective elongate members of the second plurality of elongate members as the first and second support members move relative to each other.

Preferably, the first support member and the second support member are spaced apart and connected by at least one connection member coupled to each of the first and second support members. Preferably, the at least one connection member is pivotally coupled to the first and second support members.

Preferably, there are provided at least two connection members each of which is pivotally connected to the first support member and to the second support member in order to allow the first and second support members to move relative to each other while remaining substantially mutually parallel.

Preferably, the first and second connection membe'rs are pivotally coupled to the main frame member in order to allow the first and second support members to move relative to each other.

Preferably, the first and second support members are coupled to the main frame member on substantially opposite sides thereof. This allows each to counterbalance the other, reducing vibration in the main frame member and reducing the-force required to oscillate the support members . Preferably, the first and second support members, in use, remain substantially parallel to the main frame member.

Preferably, a force is provided to at least one connection member in order to cause the support members to oscillate relative to each other.

Preferably, the elongate members are resilient.

Preferably, the elongate members are formed at least partly from a plastics or composite material, or a metal . Preferably, the elongate members are formed at least partly from fiberglass. The elongate members may be formed at least partly from spring steel.

Preferably the or each support member includes a central portion and first and second arms extending forwardly of the central portion. Alternatively, the or each support member may be generally curved with the elongate members extending forwardly from the inside of the curve .

Preferably, the fruit harvester includes one or more linkage members for attachment to a vehicle.

Preferably, the one or more linkage members are for attachment to a tractor.

Preferably, the one or more linkage members are for a'ttachment of the fruit harvester to the end loader of a tractor.

Preferably, there are provided at least three linkage members, and the linkage members are not arranged in a single line. This facilitates changes of pitch or inclination of the elongate members as well as changes of their direction of orientation in a horizontal plane. Changing the direction of the axes of the e-longate members, in use, may be used to provide more or less aggressive contact with the limbs and/or fruit of the fruit-bearing plant.

Preferably, there are provided four linkage members .

Preferably, the four linkage members are arranged in a substantially rectangular array. Such an arrangement is suitable for attachment to the four-point hitch of an end loader of a tractor.

Preferably, there is provided a driving mechanism to drive at least one supporting member to oscillate. Preferably, the driving mechanism, in use, causes the first and second supporting members to oscillate.

Preferably, the driving mechanism includes a motor with a rotary output.

Preferably, the motor is a hydraulic motor. Preferably, the driving mechanism includes a conversion coupling for converting rotary motion of the motor output to oscillate motion of the first and/or second supporting members.

Preferably, the conversion coupling includes a rotary member which rotates, in use, about an axis and a connecting rod coupled to the rotary member at a point spaced apart from the axis.

Preferably, the connecting rod is coupled to the rotary member at or adjacent a first end of said connecting rod.

Preferably, the connecting rod is coupled to a member which is to be oscillated at a second end of said connecting rod. Preferably, the member to be oscillated is a connection strut member which is attached to at least one support member.

Preferably, at least one portion of connection rod which is coupleable to a member to be oscillated may be coupled to the said member at a selected one of a number of positions thereon. This allows the amplitude of oscillation to be varied.

Preferably, the second end of the connection rod is coupleable to the connection strut at one of a number of positions thereon.

Preferably the selectable positions of said number of positions are defined by apertures in the member, the apertures being for allowing coupling of the connection rod thereto.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of harvesting fruit, comprising use of a fruit harvester in accordance with the first aspect. According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of harvesting fruit comprising: providing a plurality of elongate members mounted on a support member such that the elongate members project away from the support member; inserting at least some of the elongate members into the structure of a fruit bearing plant; and oscillating the support member to cause movement of the elongate members so -that at least some of the elongate members contact limbs of the fruit bearing plant so ,as to dislodge fruit from the limbs. ,

Preferred features of the method will be evident from the above stated preferred features of the first aspect . In a particularly preferred embodiment the method includes providing first and second pluralities of elongate members attached to respective first and second support members, and- oscillating the support members ou - of phase so that an elongate member of the first plurality of elongate members contacts a given limb from a first direction and an elongate member of the second plurality of elongate members contacts the given limb from a second substantially opposite direction. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Fig. 1 is a schematic plan view from above of a preferred embodiment of a fruit harvester in accordance with the present invention, in use;

Fig. 2 is a schematic plan view of a variation of the fruit harvester of Fig. 1;

Fig. 3 is a schematic plan view showing relative positions of two parts of a fruit harvester; Fig. 4 is a schematic plan view corresponding to

Fig. 3 but showing the two parts in an alternative relative position;

Fig. 5 is a front elevation of a further variation of a fruit harvester; Fig. 6 is a rear elevation of the fruit harvester of Fig. 5;

Fig. 7 is a schematic plan view of the fruit harvester of Figs 5 and 6;

Fig. 8 is a schematic side elevation of the fruit harvester of Figs 5 to 7 ;

Fig. 9 is a schematic rear view of part of the fruit harvester of Figs 5 to 8; and

Fig. 10.is a schematic exploded perspective view of a mechanism for attaching elongate members to a support member in the embodiment of Figs 5 to 9. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

With reference to Fig. 1, a preferred embodiment of a fruit harvester generally designated 1 is schematically illustrated in plan view, in use. with a •number of- elongate members 10 extending into a tree 2 schematically illustrated by a broken line. The fruit harvester 1 may be regarded as having a "front" towards the right of the page as illustrated in Fig. 1 and a "rear" towards the left of the page as illustrated in Fig. 1.

The fruit harvester 1 includes a laterally extending central main frame member 3 which has at a rear thereof a number of linkages (of which a first linkage 4 and a second linkage 5 are shown) for attachment to the end loader of a tractor (not shown) . Attached to the main frame member 3, is a support member 6 from which the elongate members 10 depend. The support member 6 includes a laterally extending central portion 7 which is generally parallel to the main frame member 3 and first and second side arm portions 8, 9 which extend from first and second ends of the central portion 7. The first and second arm portions 8, 9 project outwardly and forwardly from the central portion 7. The elongate members 10 project directly forwardly from the support member and are generally perpendicular to the central portion 7. Because the first and second arm portions 8, 9 are angled with respect to the central portion, the elongate members 10 do not project at right- angles from the arm portions 8, 9 but define angles dependent upon the angle at which the arm portions 8, 9 project from the central portion 7. In a preferred embodiment, the arm portions project at an angle of about

40 degrees from the central portion, but other angles may be appropriate depending on the intended use of the harvester. The main frame member 3/ first and second linkages 4, 5 and support member 6 are formed from a robust metal such as steel. The elongate members 10, which are mounted securely to the support member 6 are resilient in nature and are preferably formed from fiberglass, plastic or spring steel.

Although not evident from Fig. 1, in a preferred embodiment a hydraulic motor (not shown) is mounted to the main . frame member 3 and adapted to drive the support member 6, and thus also the elongate members, in reciprocating motion perpendicular to the direction of the elongate members, and thus in the direction in which the central portion 7 of the support member extends .

In use, the reciprocating motion causes the elongate members 10 to contact the branches and/or the fruit of a fruit tree thus harvesting fruit which is sufficiently ripe to be dislodged from the tree in this manne .

Although not shown in Fig. 1, the preferred embodiment of a fruit harvester includes two support members which are, in use, oscillated 180 degrees out of phase, causing elongate members associated with the respective support members to pass each other. This results in a "scissoring" or shearing action which effectively harvests fruit. In trials, this action has been found to effectively harvest olives, which are more difficult to remove from trees than most other fruits, with an action which is surprisingly gentle and which thus causes little damage to the fruit or the tree during harvesting. Frequencies of oscillation which are lower than those that might have been expected have been found to be effective and frequencies of oscillation as low as 1 Hertz have been found to be effective, although a frequency of approximately 1.5 Hertz is preferred. (Of course, other frequencies can be used depending on the fruit to be harvested, amplitude of oscillation and other factors) .

Fig. 2 shows a variation of the embodiment of Fig. 1 in which a fruit harvester generally designated 11 is shown in proximity to a tree 12. The fruit harvester 11 of Fig. 2 differs from the fruit harvester 1 of Fig. 1 in that a main frame member 13 and central portion 17 of support member 16 are considerably longer than the corresponding parts of the fruit harvester 1 of Fig. 1, providing- a fruit harvester of a slightly larger size and with a slightly larger number of elongate members 20. Like the fruit harvester 1 of Fig. 1, the fruit harvester 11 of Fig. 2 includes a number of linkages 14, 15 for attachment to the end loader of a tractor and further includes first and second side arm portions 18, 19 of the support member 6. A further difference between the two variations is that the elongate members 10 of the fruit harvester 1 are of varying lengths so that they all reach the same distance forward from the main frame member 3 and the central portion 7 of the support member 6 that is, the distal ends are substantially aligned. However, in the fruit harvester 11, elongate members 20 are provided which are all of equal length so that the elongate members 20 which extend from the distal ends of the first and second arm portions 18, 19 extend further forward than the elongate members 20 which depend from the central portion 17 of the support member 16. One or other of these options might be appropriate or preferable depending upon the type of tree upon which the fruit harvester is to act and/or the preference of the user. For example, the shape of the embodiment of Fig. 1 may be more suitable for harvesting fruit from conventionally shaped trees, while the shape of the embodiment of Fig. 2 may be better suited to plants grown in a hedge-like configuration.

Figs 3 and 4 illustrate the use of a fruit harvester of the type illustrated in Fig. 2. As can be seen in Figs 3 and 4, the fruit harvester 11 includes a first support member 16 depicted by solid lines in Figs 3 and 4. The fruit harvester 11 further includes a second support member 116 which is, for clarity, depicted by broken lines in Figs 3 and 4. The first support member 16 corresponds to the support member 16 illustrated in Fig. 2 and will not be described in detail. The second support member 116 is very similar to the first support member 16, and elements thereof are designated by corresponding reference numerals but prefixed with the digit 1. A number of elongate members -120 depend from the second support member 116. For clarity, the main frame member and linkages are omitted from Figs 3 and 4.

Figs 3 and 4 illustrate schematically the first and second support members 16, 116 oscillating 180° out of phase, with one half a period of oscillation between the illustrations of Figs 3 and 4. In Fig. 3, the first support member 16 is shown as being closer to the top of the page (which would be to the left as viewed from the rear of the fruit harvester) . In Fig. 4, the second support member 116 is shown as being closer to the top of the page and the first support member 16 is closer to the bottom of the page. It will be appreciated that as the first and second support members 16, 116 oscillate, the respective corresponding elongate members 20, 120 move past each other repeatedly. In use, if a branch of a tree extends between the elongate members 20, it would be repeatedly impacted by the elongate members 20 mounted to the first support member and also by the elongate members 120 which are mounted to the support member 6. Because the first and second support members 16, 116 are 180 degrees out of phase, the impacts from the elongate members 20 will be in the opposite direction to those from the elongate members 120. This allows an impact force to be applied to the branches of the tree from which fruit is to be harvested without causing excessive movement of the branch and at a lower frequency of oscillation than is effective for harvesting if a simple striking action is used. This provides a gentle harvesting action. Furthermore, because the elongate members 20, 120 are resilient this further reduces undue damage to the tree. Of course, the speed and amplitude of oscillation as well as the stiffness of the elongate members should be appropriate for the specific application for which the fruit harvester is being used and may be varied from that specified or illustrated. The preferred embodiment was originally envisaged for use in harvesting olives, but may be appropriate- for use in harvesting other fruit . With reference to Figs 5 to 8, a preferred embodiment is disclosed in more detail in a less schematic representation. Figs 5 to 8 show respectively a front elevation, a rear elevation, a plan view and a side view of a preferred embodiment of a fruit harvester generally designated 21. The fruit harvester includes a first, or upper support member 26 and a second or lower support member 36. The first support member includes a central portion 27 and first and second arm portions 28, 29 respectively. Elongate members forming a first plurality of elongate members 30 are mounted to the top of the first support member 26, spaced equally along the length thereof and all orientated generally perpendicular to the central portion 27 so that they project forward. The second support member 36 includes a central portion 37 and first and second arm portions 38/ 39. A second plurality of elongate members 40 are mounted to the second support member. The first support member 26 thus has a form analogous to that of a curved comb in which the first plurality of elongate members 30 are analogous to the teeth of the comb. The first support member 26 and first plurality of elongate members 30 form a substantially planar structure. The second support member 36 and second plurality of elongate members 40 are analogous in structure to the first support member 26 and first plurality of elongate members 30. The respective planes in which the first and second support members 26, 36 exists are generally parallel.

The first and second support members are pivotally connected to each other, so that they remain parallel, by first and second connection struts 35A, 35B. The connection struts 35A, 35B are, respectively, pivotally connected to the first and second support members 26, 36 adjacent to the ends of the respective central portions 27, 37 to form a four bar linkage. Although in Figs -5 and 6 the support struts 35A, 35B are shown as being vertical in orientation, it will be appreciated that during use their orientation changes (albeit slightly) so that it is not always vertical, in order to provide relative oscillation of the first and second support members 26, 36. Similarly, the oscillation of the support members is, strictly speaking, not linear, since the distance between them will vary slightly as they oscillate. However, it is considered that the described oscillation of each support member is substantially linear.

The first and second support struts 35A, 35B are connected at generally central portions thereof to spaced apart end portions of a main frame member 23. The main frame member 23 is provided with a first to fourth linkages 24A, 24B, 24C, 24D thereon so that the fruit harvester can be mounted to (and, in use, positioned by) the front end loader of a tractor (not shown) . The two lower linkages 24C, 24D are, in use, connected to the main arm portions of the end loader, and the two upper linkages 24Α, 24B are connected to parts of the end loader which are moveable (normally by hydraulic rams) relative to the main arm portions. This allows manipulation of the inclination, as well as the position of the elongate members. If it is desired to provide greater reach, the frame 23 may be extended downwards so that linkages 24A, 24B, 24C, 24D are, in use, lower relative to the support members. Thus if the linkages are at a given height, in the extended variation the elongate members will be higher, which is useful for harvesting taller trees. In one ejαbodiment (not illustrated) the frame, is extended so that the linkages are approximately one meter (three feet) below to their positions in the embodiment of Figs 5 to 8, and other sizes of extended frames are envisaged.

Mounted on the main frame member 23, and as best shown in Fig. 9, is a hydraulic motor 32 which has an output connected to a rotary member in the form of a Pitman wheel 33. The- -Pitman wheel 33 is connected to the first support strut 35A via a connecting rod in the form of a Pitman arm 34. The Pitman arm 34 is pivotally attached to the Pitman wheel 33 and the. first support strut 35A in a manner which will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. In a preferred embodiment, the hydraulic motor is powered by the hydraulic system of a tractor to which the fruit harvester 21 is attached. As illustrated in Fig. 9, the first support strut 35A has a plurality of apertures 31 allowing connection of the Pitman arm 34 at different points thereon, to allow variation of the amplitude of the oscillation. Of course, variation of the amplitude of oscillation could additionally or alternatively be varied by varying the distance between the connection of the Pitman arm 34 and the axis of rotation of the rotary member. Of course, many other ways of providing substantially reciprocating oscillating motion of? one or more support members (for example, using appropriate gears, or cams and followers, to change a rotary output of a motor into substantially reciprocating motion) will be evident to the skilled person. The first and second struts form parts of a mechanical coupling for allowing oscillation of the support members (relative to each other and to the main frame member) .

The main frame member 23 thus serves, in use, as a structural centre of the harvester 21 which is positioned by the front end loader of a tractor, and relative to which the first and second support members 26, 36 oscillate. In use, the fruit harvester 21 can be tilted by manipulation, of the front end loader, so that the angle of the elongate members can be varied from the horizontal. In use, the fruit harvester is moved through the tree from which fruit is to be harvested by operation of the end loader of a tractor to which the fruit harvester is mounted. To harvest fruit from a tree the fruit harvester 21 is "combed" through the tree with the elongate rods impacting the branches gently but effectively. The angle of the elongate members and the degree of penetration of the elongate members into the tree may be varied to suit the shape of the tree and the degree of difficulty encountered in removing fruit. Appropriate manipulation of the harvester will help prevent damage to the tree and undesirable excessive motion of the branches which could cause fruit to be dispersed. It is effective to have the elongate members angled upwards for combing down a tree and angled downwards for combing up the tree, although different techniques may be suitable for different trees. Appropriate manipulation of the harvester provides contact of the elongate members with the tree, close to all the fruit to be harvested, in contrast to some prior art harvesters which contact only the trunk and/or major limbs of tree . Appropriate frequency and amplitude of oscillation may also be selected for optimum results. The speed at which the harvester is "combed" through the tree, the pitch of the elongate members and the depth of penetration of the elongate members into the tree may also be controlled by the operator, according to the circumstances, type of tree, etc. Depth of penetration of the elongate members into a tree may be controlled by movement of the tractor towards or away from the tree. Frequency of oscillation may be controlled by a variable speed control for the hydraulic motor. It has been found that a single sweep of the fruit harvester through a tree will often be sufficient to harvest fruit from the side of the tree to which the harvester is applied. However, multiple sweeps may e appropriate if the fruit is difficult to remove. Although it is believed evident from the context, for avoidance of any doubt it should be appreciated that the elongate members may contact the smaller members or branches of a fruit bearing plant and that meaning of the word "limb" herein is not intended to be restricted to only the larger members or branches of a plant,- but to include smaller members-or branches. Fruit may be collected in any appropriate manner, but preferred methods include provision of a collector, for example, in the form of an inverted cone, about the trunk of the tree prior to use of the fruit harvester. Alternatively, a suitable collector may be attached to the tractor which bears the harvester. The fruit harvester may be mounted without difficulty to the end loader of a tractor and the skilled person will understand how orientation of a suitable end loader can be used to raise, lower and tilt the fruit harvester. In one embodiment, the arm portions (eg. 8, 9) of each support member are removable from the central portion for convenient storage and transportation.

In an alternate embodiment the arm portions may be hinged and/or pivotably attached to the central portion to allow them to fold inwards, providing a compact storage configuration without requiring demounting of the arms. In this case a locking mechanism, for example a pin and aperture arrangement, is preferably provided.

It will be appreciated that the preferred embodiment of the fruit harvester is simple in construction with each support member supporting each of a plurality of elongate members with a simple mechanical connection. The connection between the elongate members and the support members is not required to allow relative movement of the support members and the parts of the elongate members mounted thereto. In a preferred embodiment, as illustrated in Fig. 10, a support member 56 has a holder 57 for an elongate member welded thereto. The holder 57 is generally cylindrical and includes an internally threaded open end 58 at the end distal from the support member 56. The internally threaded open end 58 is adapted to receive a gland nut 59 which has a threaded portion 60 at one end thereof and a receiving bore 61 at the other end thereof. The threaded portion is adapted for connection to the threaded open end 58 of the holder 57. -The receiving- bore- 61 -is adapted to receive a sleeve 62 in which an elongate member 70 is, in use, mounted. It should thus be appreciated that in this embodiment elongate members may be easily and inexpensively replaced if they are damaged during use. Furthermore, they may be easily removed for storage of the fruit harvester and replaced for operation. Other arrangements for replaceably fitting elongate members to support members will be evident to those skilled in the art, including suitable clamping devices, threaded attachments etc. The use of a scissoring action has been found to harvest fruit more gently than many prior art mechanical harvesters. The scissoring action impacts and/or forces the tree limb at least twice for each oscillation and allows effective use of smaller impact velocities than are effective for harvesters which use a simple beating action. In trials, olives harvested mechanically by a prototype have been found to be virtually undamaged, in contrast to those harvested by some prior art mechanical harvesters.

It has been found effective to have the first and second support members spaced apart by approximately 10 inches (25cm) and to have each support member bear a single row of elongate members arranged in a substantially straight line. It will be understood that the support members of the preferred embodiments are not straight but are in the form of open C- shaped members (or approximately half-hexagonal members) , but that the elongate members may be regarded as being arranged in a straight line (meaning that the line looks straight when viewed from an axial direction relative to the elongate members) even though their ends are attached to the non-straight support members. Variations from such a straight line, for example, with alternating elongate members being attached alternately to the top and bottom of the respective support member, should be considered substantially straight. In one prototype, alternate elongate members varied upwards or downwards approximately 2 inches (5cm) from a hcrizonta-1 straight line, but over the length -of the (approximately 3m long) support member, such an arrangement clearly constitutes a substantially straight line. A spacing between adjacent elongate members of about 7 inches (18cm) has been found effective. Elongate members made of fiberglass with lengths of about 1.2m to 1.8m and diameters of about 0.5 inches (1.3cm) have been found effective for harvesting olives. Of course, these details are given by way of illustration only and other dimensions, materials or configurations may also be suitable especially for harvesting other fruit (including nuts) . Harvesters similar to the described preferred embodiment may be of particular value in harvesting grapes without excessive damage to vines which is commonly inflicted by mechanical harvesters.

Furthermore, the simplicity and economy of the preferred embodiment is considered to be advantageous over many previous fruit harvesters which require dedicated or specialised equipment for movement through trees and/or which included a very large number of moving parts . Use of the end loader of a tractor to position the harvester, in use, and of the front hydraulic system of the tractor to power the harvester facilitate economic and convenient operation. Embodiments of the invention may thus be viable for purchase by small farms whereas some prior art harvesters are prohibitively expensive.

Of course, many variations and alternative embodiments can be envisaged by those skilled in the art.

For example, the elongate members may be made from any suitable material.

Although the preferred embodiment includes two comb-like arrangements oscillating laterally 180 degrees out of phases, it will be appreciated that under some circumstances a harvester with a single laterally oscillating comb might be adequate. In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where- the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary- implication, the word "comprise" or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising" is used in an inclusive sense, ie. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.

It is to be understood that, if any prior art publication is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the publication forms a part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or in any other country.

Modifications and improvements may be incorporated without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Claims

CLAIMS :

1. A fruit harvester comprising: d support member; a plurality of elongate members for contact with limbs of a fruit-bearing plant, the elongate members being mounted to the support member so that they extend away from the support member; a mechanical coupling to allow oscillation of the support member; and wherein said oscillation of the support member is transmitted to the elongate members.

2. A fruit harvester as claimed in claim 1, wherein the oscillation of the support member is substantially reciprocating motion.

3. A fruit harvester as claimed in either of claims 1 or 2, wherein the harvester further comprising a main frame member and the support member is coupled to, and able to oscillate relative to, the main frame member.

4. A fruit harvester as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein there is provided a first support member and a second support member, and the first and second support members support respective first and second pluralities of elongate members.

5. A fruit harvester as claimed in claim 4, wherein each of the first and second pluralities of elongate members is provided in the form of a substantially linear array of elongate members.

6. A fruit harvester as claimed in either of claims 4 or 5 , wherein, in use, the first support member oscillates with substantially reciprocating motion relative to the second support member.

7. A fruit harvester as claimed in any of claims 4 to 6, wherein, in use, elongate members of the first plurality -of elongate members are oscillated substantially laterally.

8. A fruit harvester as claimed in any of claims 4 to 7 , wherein, in use, elongate members of the first plurality of elongate members move substantially laterally relative to elongate members of the second plurality of elongate members.

9. A fruit harvester as claimed in claim 8, wherein, in use, elongate members of the first and second pluralities of elongate members are oscillated laterally by oscillation of the first and second support members.

10. A fruit harvester as claimed in claim 9, wherein the lateral oscillation of the first and second pluralities are approximately 180° out of phase.

11. A fruit harvester as claimed in any of claims 4 to 10, wherein substantially all of the elongate members of the first plurality of elongate members have a corresponding respective elongate member of the second plurality of elongate members, adapted, in use, to force and/or impact the same limb of a plant.

12. A fruit harvester as claimed in any of claims 4 to 11, wherein the first and second support members are substantially mutually parallel and adapted to oscillate relative to each other.

13. A fruit harvester as claimed in any of claims 4 to 12, wherein the elongate members of the first plurality of elongate members extend away from the first support member and wherein at least some of the elongate members of the first plurality of elongate members extend in generally the same direction.

14. A fruit harvester- as claimed in any of claims 4 to 13, wherein the elongate members of the first plurality of elongate members are substantially mutually parallel, the elongate members of the second plurality of elongate members are substantially mutually parallel and the elongate members of the second plurality of elongate members are substantially parallel to the elongate members of the first plurality of elongate members.

15. A fruit harvester as claimed in any of claims 4 to 14, wherein the elongate members of the first plurality of elongate members lie substantially in a first plane, the elongate members of the second plurality of elongate members lie substantially in a second plane, and the first and second planes are substantially parallel.

16. A fruit harvester as claimed in any of claims 4 to 15, wherein, in use, a substantial number of the elongate members of the first plurality of elongate members move laterally past respective elongate members of the second plurality of elongate members as the first and second support members move relative to each other.

17. A fruit harvester as claimed in any of claims 4 to 16, wherein the first support member and the second support member are spaced apart and connected by at least one connection member pivotally coupled to each of the first and second support members.

18. A fruit harvester as claimed in any of claims 4 to 17, where,in the first and second support members are coupled to a main frame member on substantially opposite sides thereof.

19. A fruit harvester as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the elongate members are resilient.

20. A fruit harvester as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the elongate members are formed at least partly from a material selected from: a plastic; composite material; metal.

21. A fruit harvester as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein each of the elongate members is, in use, attached to a support member so that in use the attachment allows no substantial relative movement between the attached part of the elongate member and the support member .

22. A fruit harvester as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein, in use, the harvester acts upon at least one part of a plant with a substantially scissoring or shearing action.

23. A fruit harvester as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein there is provided a driving mechanism to drive at least one supporting member to oscillate.

24. A fruit harvester as claimed in claim 23, wherein the driving mechanism includes a hydraulic motor with a rotary output and a conversion coupling for converting rotary motion of the motor output to oscillating motion of the first and/or second supporting members .

25. A fruit harvester as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the fruit harvester includes one or more linkage members for attachment to an end loader of a tractor.

26. A fruit harvester as claimed in claim 25, wherein there are provided at least three linkage members, and the linkage members are not -arranged in a single line.

27. A fruit harvester as claimed in claim 4 or any claim when dependent thereon, wherein, in use, a part of a fruit-bearing plant which is positioned between two elongate members of the first plurality of elongate members is forced and/or impacted by at least one of said two elongate members and is forced and/or impacted by at least one of the elongate members of the second plurality of elongate members.

28. A fruit harvester as claimed in claim 27, wherein, in use, the part of a fruit-bearing plant is forced and/or impacted in a first direction by at least one elongate member of the first plurality of elongate members, and is forced and/or impacted in a second substantially opposite direction, by at least one elongate member of the second plurality of elongate members.

29. A method of harvesting fruit, comprising use of a fruit harvester as claimed in any preceding claim.

30. A method of harvesting fruit comprising: providing a plurality of elongate members mounted on a support member such that the elongate members project away from the support member; inserting at least some of the elongate members into the structure of a fruit bearing plant; and oscillating the support member to cause movement of the elongate members so that a,t least some of the elongate members contact limbs of the fruit bearing plant so as to dislodge fruit from the limbs.

31. A method as claimed in claim 30 wherein the method includes : providing first and second pluralities of elongate members attached to respective first and second support members; and oscillating the support members out of phase so that an elongate member of the first plurality of elongate members contacts a given limb from a first direction and an elongate member of the second plurality of elongate members contacts the given limb from a second substantially opposite direction.