US20060090780A1 - Apparatus and methods for washing the cored areas of lettuce heads during harvest - Google Patents

Apparatus and methods for washing the cored areas of lettuce heads during harvest Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US20060090780A1
US20060090780A1 US10/727,998 US72799803A US2006090780A1 US 20060090780 A1 US20060090780 A1 US 20060090780A1 US 72799803 A US72799803 A US 72799803A US 2006090780 A1 US2006090780 A1 US 2006090780A1
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
conveyer
support platform
aqueous solution
lettuce
proximal end
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Abandoned
Application number
US10/727,998
Inventor
Richard Brown
Eugene Rizzo
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Individual
Original Assignee
Individual
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Family has litigation
First worldwide family litigation filed litigation Critical https://patents.darts-ip.com/?family=23137738&utm_source=google_patent&utm_medium=platform_link&utm_campaign=public_patent_search&patent=US20060090780(A1) "Global patent litigation dataset” by Darts-ip is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Application filed by Individual filed Critical Individual
Priority to US10/727,998 priority Critical patent/US20060090780A1/en
Publication of US20060090780A1 publication Critical patent/US20060090780A1/en
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01D—HARVESTING; MOWING
    • A01D45/00—Harvesting of standing crops
    • A01D45/26—Harvesting of standing crops of cabbage or lettuce
    • A01D45/263—Harvesting of standing crops of cabbage or lettuce of lettuce
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A23—FOODS OR FOODSTUFFS; TREATMENT THEREOF, NOT COVERED BY OTHER CLASSES
    • A23B—PRESERVING, e.g. BY CANNING, MEAT, FISH, EGGS, FRUIT, VEGETABLES, EDIBLE SEEDS; CHEMICAL RIPENING OF FRUIT OR VEGETABLES; THE PRESERVED, RIPENED, OR CANNED PRODUCTS
    • A23B7/00—Preservation or chemical ripening of fruit or vegetables
    • A23B7/14—Preserving or ripening with chemicals not covered by groups A23B7/08 or A23B7/10
    • A23B7/153—Preserving or ripening with chemicals not covered by groups A23B7/08 or A23B7/10 in the form of liquids or solids
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A23—FOODS OR FOODSTUFFS; TREATMENT THEREOF, NOT COVERED BY OTHER CLASSES
    • A23B—PRESERVING, e.g. BY CANNING, MEAT, FISH, EGGS, FRUIT, VEGETABLES, EDIBLE SEEDS; CHEMICAL RIPENING OF FRUIT OR VEGETABLES; THE PRESERVED, RIPENED, OR CANNED PRODUCTS
    • A23B7/00—Preservation or chemical ripening of fruit or vegetables
    • A23B7/14—Preserving or ripening with chemicals not covered by groups A23B7/08 or A23B7/10
    • A23B7/153—Preserving or ripening with chemicals not covered by groups A23B7/08 or A23B7/10 in the form of liquids or solids
    • A23B7/158—Apparatus for preserving using liquids
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A23—FOODS OR FOODSTUFFS; TREATMENT THEREOF, NOT COVERED BY OTHER CLASSES
    • A23N—MACHINES OR APPARATUS FOR TREATING HARVESTED FRUIT, VEGETABLES OR FLOWER BULBS IN BULK, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; PEELING VEGETABLES OR FRUIT IN BULK; APPARATUS FOR PREPARING ANIMAL FEEDING- STUFFS
    • A23N12/00—Machines for cleaning, blanching, drying or roasting fruits or vegetables, e.g. coffee, cocoa, nuts
    • A23N12/02—Machines for cleaning, blanching, drying or roasting fruits or vegetables, e.g. coffee, cocoa, nuts for washing or blanching
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B08—CLEANING
    • B08B—CLEANING IN GENERAL; PREVENTION OF FOULING IN GENERAL
    • B08B3/00—Cleaning by methods involving the use or presence of liquid or steam
    • B08B3/02—Cleaning by the force of jets or sprays
    • B08B3/022—Cleaning travelling work

Definitions

  • This invention relates to apparatus and methods for washing the cored area of a lettuce head.
  • the field to which the invention relates is that of agricultural equipment and methods used in harvesting operations.
  • the invention is an apparatus and method for washing a plurality of cored lettuce heads as they are harvested in the field.
  • the apparatus comprises a conveyer forming a loop, support platforms attached to the conveyer with at least one lettuce head guide connected to each support platform, and an aqueous solution spraying system fixedly attached at a point along said conveyer loop.
  • the claimed method involves the steps of placing at least one cored lettuce head onto a conveyer, conveying the lettuce head(s) to an aqueous solution spraying system, delivering an aqueous solution into the core hole(s) of the lettuce head(s) for a time and at a pressure sufficient to wash the core hole(s), and removing the cored lettuce head(s) from the conveyer.
  • FIG. 1 is a side elevation view of the apparatus for washing the cores of cored lettuce attached to a tractor.
  • FIG. 2 shows a top plan view of a section of the apparatus of FIG. 1 .
  • FIG. 3 is an exploded side elevation view in cross section of the hinged area connecting the middle and proximal end segments of the apparatus shown in FIG. 1 .
  • FIG. 4 is an exploded side elevation view in cross section of the hinged area connecting the central and distal end segments of the apparatus shown in FIG. 1 .
  • FIG. 5 is a side elevation view in cross section of the wash chamber in the apparatus of FIGS. 1-4 .
  • FIG. 6 is an exploded side elevation view in cross section of the unhinged end of the distal end segment in the apparatus of FIGS. 1-5 .
  • FIG. 7 is an exploded side elevation view in cross section of the unhinged end of the proximal end segment in the apparatus of FIG. 6 .
  • FIG. 8 is an exploded side elevation view in cross section of the unhinged end of the proximal end segment in the apparatus of FIG. 6 showing a removal finger.
  • FIG. 9 is an end view of the unhinged end of the proximal end segment showing the removal fingers.
  • FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of washing apparatus 400 which includes three hinged sections—a distal end segment 406 , a middle segment 407 , and a proximal end segment 408 .
  • Lifting cylinders 409 and 410 powered and controlled hydraulically, rotate distal end segment 406 and proximal end segment 408 to desired angles of inclination. See FIGS. 3 and 4 for an example.
  • Washing chamber 411 is located on proximal end segment 408 adjacent to connecting hinge 412 .
  • FIG. 2 shows lettuce head washing apparatus 400 as viewed from above.
  • Apparatus 400 includes at least one support platform 401 which includes a plurality of openings 402 .
  • Platforms 401 support and are connected to guides 403 .
  • Guides 403 orient the lettuce heads so that the aqueous solution is delivered to the core holes of the lettuce heads.
  • a preferred embodiment of guide 403 is shown as including three L-shaped vanes 404 , that project upwardly from platforms 401 .
  • Guides 403 may also be circular, posts, spikes, or any other suitable holder used to support and orient the lettuce heads.
  • Platform 401 is attached at each end to a double pitch chain 405 that forms a loop.
  • apparatus 400 includes a plurality of support platforms 401 , each with at least two guides 403 , attached at intervals along chain 405 , such as shown in FIG. 2 .
  • platforms 401 are detachable from chain 405 .
  • the combination of guides 403 , platforms 401 , chains 405 and associated frame and driving mechanisms form a looped belt, sometimes called a harvester belt, that moves along an elliptical or other path.
  • Sprockets 423 are powered and controlled hydraulically to move chain 405 , thereby moving attached platforms 401 and connected guides 403 .
  • the belt is attached, at one end, to a hitch of a puller vehicle e.g. a tractor of 40 horse power or greater.
  • Guides 403 are conveyed in a substantially upright position from unhinged end 413 of distal end segment 406 towards unhinged end 414 of proximal end segment 408 .
  • distal end segment 406 is maintained in a horizontal and co-linear position with middle segment 407 during operation. Workers place cored heads of lettuce on guides 403 as they traverse distal end segment 406 and central segment 407 in an upright position. Cored lettuce heads on guides 403 then travel through wash chamber 411 to unhinged end 414 of proximal end segment 408 .
  • FIG. 5 shows wash chamber 411 .
  • Wash chamber 411 includes one or more spray nozzles 418 that continually spray or otherwise deliver an aqueous lettuce head washing solution 419 into the core holes of the lettuce heads as they travel over nozzles 418 .
  • Solution 419 is pumped to nozzles 418 through hoses 422 from supply tank 421 located below wash chamber 411 .
  • Solution 419 may be pumped by any suitable pump. Preferred embodiments use a centrifugal pump powered and controlled hydraulically.
  • Solution 419 emerges from nozzles 418 under pressure and travels upward as spray 420 through openings in platforms 401 into the core holes of lettuce heads.
  • Solution 419 which drains from the lettuce is collected, filtered, and recycled by supply tank 421 .
  • supply tank 421 used to collect, filter and recycle solution 419 is disclosed in the currently pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/144,972 filed Sep. 1 st , 1998 by applicants Richard S. Brown and Eugene D. Rizzo. That application is hereby incorporated by reference.
  • the level of solution in supply tank 421 is kept at a predetermined level by a float valve.
  • Supply tank 421 may be connected to a tractor mounted nurse tank.
  • Aqueous solution 419 may be pumped from the nurse tank to supply tank 421 by any pump.
  • Preferred embodiments use a centrifugal pump, powered and controlled hydraulically.
  • a single lettuce head passes over one or more nozzles 418 , repeatedly washing the core hole.
  • Nozzles 418 may deliver washing solution 419 at either high pressure and low volume, or low pressure and high volume.
  • Preferred embodiments include both types of nozzles 418 .
  • the lettuce heads are conveyed to unhinged end 414 of proximal end segment 408 .
  • Proximal end segment 408 is preferably elevated, as shown in FIG. 1 , at an inclination angle of 25-35 degrees.
  • the washed lettuce heads will thereby be elevated for deposit onto a conveyer or into produce bins.
  • the cored lettuce heads on guides 403 are rotated through an angle to a substantially inverted position 415 , as shown, for example, in FIG. 7 .
  • inverted position 415 the cored lettuce heads detach from guide 403 .
  • At least one fixed removing finger 424 as shown, for example, in FIGS.
  • Inverted guides 403 return to unhinged distal end 413 of the harvester belt. There guides 403 rotate through an angle to a substantially upright position. For an example, see FIG. 6 . Guide 403 then travels back towards proximal end 408 of the harvester belt for receipt of additional cored lettuce heads to be washed.

Abstract

An apparatus and method for washing a plurality of cored lettuce heads as they are harvested in the field is disclosed. The apparatus incorporates a multi-segment hinged conveyer forming a loop, at least one support platform having an opening, at least one lettuce head guide connected to the support platform and an aqueous solution spraying system. Workers harvest lettuce heads, core the lettuce heads and then place them on the lettuce head guides which are moving along the conveyer. The lettuce heads are conveyed to an aqueous solution spraying system which washes the cored areas of the lettuce heads. The lettuce heads are then removed from the conveyer into a produce bin.

Description

    BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
  • This invention relates to apparatus and methods for washing the cored area of a lettuce head.
  • The field to which the invention relates is that of agricultural equipment and methods used in harvesting operations.
    • BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
  • The invention is an apparatus and method for washing a plurality of cored lettuce heads as they are harvested in the field. The apparatus comprises a conveyer forming a loop, support platforms attached to the conveyer with at least one lettuce head guide connected to each support platform, and an aqueous solution spraying system fixedly attached at a point along said conveyer loop. The claimed method involves the steps of placing at least one cored lettuce head onto a conveyer, conveying the lettuce head(s) to an aqueous solution spraying system, delivering an aqueous solution into the core hole(s) of the lettuce head(s) for a time and at a pressure sufficient to wash the core hole(s), and removing the cored lettuce head(s) from the conveyer.
    • BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
  • FIG. 1 is a side elevation view of the apparatus for washing the cores of cored lettuce attached to a tractor.
  • FIG. 2 shows a top plan view of a section of the apparatus of FIG. 1.
  • FIG. 3 is an exploded side elevation view in cross section of the hinged area connecting the middle and proximal end segments of the apparatus shown in FIG. 1.
  • FIG. 4 is an exploded side elevation view in cross section of the hinged area connecting the central and distal end segments of the apparatus shown in FIG. 1.
  • FIG. 5 is a side elevation view in cross section of the wash chamber in the apparatus of FIGS. 1-4.
  • FIG. 6 is an exploded side elevation view in cross section of the unhinged end of the distal end segment in the apparatus of FIGS. 1-5.
  • FIG. 7 is an exploded side elevation view in cross section of the unhinged end of the proximal end segment in the apparatus of FIG. 6.
  • FIG. 8 is an exploded side elevation view in cross section of the unhinged end of the proximal end segment in the apparatus of FIG. 6 showing a removal finger.
  • FIG. 9. is an end view of the unhinged end of the proximal end segment showing the removal fingers.
    • DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
  • FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of washing apparatus 400 which includes three hinged sections—a distal end segment 406, a middle segment 407, and a proximal end segment 408. Lifting cylinders 409 and 410, powered and controlled hydraulically, rotate distal end segment 406 and proximal end segment 408 to desired angles of inclination. See FIGS. 3 and 4 for an example. Washing chamber 411 is located on proximal end segment 408 adjacent to connecting hinge 412.
  • FIG. 2 shows lettuce head washing apparatus 400 as viewed from above. Apparatus 400 includes at least one support platform 401 which includes a plurality of openings 402. Platforms 401 support and are connected to guides 403. Guides 403 orient the lettuce heads so that the aqueous solution is delivered to the core holes of the lettuce heads. In FIG. 2, a preferred embodiment of guide 403 is shown as including three L-shaped vanes 404, that project upwardly from platforms 401. Guides 403 may also be circular, posts, spikes, or any other suitable holder used to support and orient the lettuce heads.
  • Platform 401 is attached at each end to a double pitch chain 405 that forms a loop. Preferably, apparatus 400 includes a plurality of support platforms 401, each with at least two guides 403, attached at intervals along chain 405, such as shown in FIG. 2. In some embodiments platforms 401 are detachable from chain 405. The combination of guides 403, platforms 401, chains 405 and associated frame and driving mechanisms form a looped belt, sometimes called a harvester belt, that moves along an elliptical or other path. Sprockets 423, as shown for example in FIG. 6, are powered and controlled hydraulically to move chain 405, thereby moving attached platforms 401 and connected guides 403. Preferably the belt is attached, at one end, to a hitch of a puller vehicle e.g. a tractor of 40 horse power or greater.
  • Guides 403 are conveyed in a substantially upright position from unhinged end 413 of distal end segment 406 towards unhinged end 414 of proximal end segment 408. In a preferred embodiment distal end segment 406 is maintained in a horizontal and co-linear position with middle segment 407 during operation. Workers place cored heads of lettuce on guides 403 as they traverse distal end segment 406 and central segment 407 in an upright position. Cored lettuce heads on guides 403 then travel through wash chamber 411 to unhinged end 414 of proximal end segment 408.
  • FIG. 5 shows wash chamber 411. Wash chamber 411 includes one or more spray nozzles 418 that continually spray or otherwise deliver an aqueous lettuce head washing solution 419 into the core holes of the lettuce heads as they travel over nozzles 418. Solution 419 is pumped to nozzles 418 through hoses 422 from supply tank 421 located below wash chamber 411. Solution 419 may be pumped by any suitable pump. Preferred embodiments use a centrifugal pump powered and controlled hydraulically. Solution 419 emerges from nozzles 418 under pressure and travels upward as spray 420 through openings in platforms 401 into the core holes of lettuce heads. Solution 419 which drains from the lettuce is collected, filtered, and recycled by supply tank 421. A preferred embodiment of supply tank 421 used to collect, filter and recycle solution 419 is disclosed in the currently pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/144,972 filed Sep. 1st, 1998 by applicants Richard S. Brown and Eugene D. Rizzo. That application is hereby incorporated by reference.
  • The level of solution in supply tank 421 is kept at a predetermined level by a float valve. Supply tank 421 may be connected to a tractor mounted nurse tank. Aqueous solution 419 may be pumped from the nurse tank to supply tank 421 by any pump. Preferred embodiments use a centrifugal pump, powered and controlled hydraulically.
  • In some embodiments, a single lettuce head passes over one or more nozzles 418, repeatedly washing the core hole. Nozzles 418 may deliver washing solution 419 at either high pressure and low volume, or low pressure and high volume. Preferred embodiments include both types of nozzles 418.
  • After exiting washing chamber 411, the lettuce heads are conveyed to unhinged end 414 of proximal end segment 408. Proximal end segment 408 is preferably elevated, as shown in FIG. 1, at an inclination angle of 25-35 degrees. The washed lettuce heads will thereby be elevated for deposit onto a conveyer or into produce bins. At unhinged end 414 the cored lettuce heads on guides 403 are rotated through an angle to a substantially inverted position 415, as shown, for example, in FIG. 7. In inverted position 415 the cored lettuce heads detach from guide 403. At least one fixed removing finger 424, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 8 and 9, placed adjacent to unhinged end 414 may be used to assist in unseating the lettuce heads. Inverted guides 403 return to unhinged distal end 413 of the harvester belt. There guides 403 rotate through an angle to a substantially upright position. For an example, see FIG. 6. Guide 403 then travels back towards proximal end 408 of the harvester belt for receipt of additional cored lettuce heads to be washed.

Claims (42)

1. An apparatus for washing a plurality of cored heads of lettuce comprising
a conveyer forming a loop with a distal end and a proximal end;
at least one support platform having at least one opening;
said at least one support platform attached to said conveyer;
at least one lettuce head guide connected to said at least one support platform; and
an aqueous solution spraying system fixedly attached at a point along said conveyer loop.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said conveyer further comprises
a middle segment with a first end and a second end;
a distal end segment rotatably attached to said first end;
a proximal end segment rotatably attached to said second end;
a rotator to rotate and hold in place at a desired angle said distal end segment; and
a rotator to rotate and hold in place at a desired angle said proximal end segment.
3. The apparatus of claim 2 wherein said aqueous solution spraying system is fixedly attached at a point along said proximal end segment.
4. The apparatus of claim 1, 2, or 3 wherein said conveyer further comprises a double pitch attachment style chain.
5. An apparatus for washing a plurality of cored heads of lettuce comprising
a conveyer forming a loop with a distal end and a proximal end;
at least one support platform having at least one opening;
said at least one support platform attached to said conveyer;
at least one lettuce head guide connected to said at least one support platform;
said lettuce head guide comprising outward facing vanes; and
an aqueous solution spraying system fixedly attached at a point along said conveyer loop.
6. An apparatus for washing a plurality of cored heads of lettuce comprising
a conveyer forming a loop with a distal end and a proximal end;
at least one support platform having at least one opening;
said at least one support platform attached to said conveyer through a double pitch attachment style chain;
at least one lettuce head guide connected to said at least one support platform;
said lettuce head guide comprising outward facing vanes; and
an aqueous solution spraying system fixedly attached at a point along said conveyer loop.
7. An apparatus for washing a plurality of cored heads of lettuce comprising
a conveyer forming a loop with a distal end and a proximal end;
at least one support platform having at least one opening;
said at least one support platform attached to said conveyer;
said conveyer comprising;
(A) a middle segment with a first end and a second end;
(B) a distal end segment rotatably attached to said first end;
(C) a proximal end segment rotatably attached to said second end;
(D) a rotator to rotate and hold in place at a desired angle said distal end segment; and
(E) a rotator to rotate and hold in place at a desired angle said proximal end segment;
at least one lettuce head guide connected to said at least one support platform;
said lettuce head guide comprising outward facing vanes; and
an aqueous solution spraying system fixedly attached at a point along said conveyer loop.
8. An apparatus for washing a plurality of cored heads of lettuce comprising
a conveyer forming a loop with a distal end and a proximal end;
at least one support platform having at least one opening;
said at least one support platform attached to said conveyer through a double pitch attachment style chain;
said conveyer comprising;
(A) a middle segment with a first end and a second end;
(B) a distal end segment rotatably attached to said first end;
(C) a proximal end segment rotatably attached to said second end;
(D) a rotator to rotate and hold in place at a desired angle said distal end segment; and
(E) a rotator to rotate and hold in place at a desired angle said proximal end segment;
at least one lettuce head guide connected to said at least one support platform;
said lettuce head guide comprising outward facing vanes; and
an aqueous solution spraying system fixedly attached at a point along said conveyer loop.
9. An apparatus for washing a plurality of cored heads of lettuce comprising
a conveyer forming a loop with a distal end and a proximal end;
at least one support platform having at least one opening;
said at least one support platform attached to said conveyer;
said conveyer comprising;
(A) a middle segment with a first end and a second end;
(B) a distal end segment rotatably attached to said first end;
(C) a proximal end segment rotatably attached to said second end;
(D) a rotator to rotate and hold in place at a desired angle said distal end segment; and
(E) a rotator to rotate and hold in place at a desired angle said proximal end segment;
at least one lettuce head guide connected to said at least one support platform;
said lettuce head guide comprising outward facing vanes; and
an aqueous solution spraying system fixedly attached at a point along said proximal end segment.
10. An apparatus for washing a plurality of cored heads of lettuce comprising
a conveyer forming a loop with a distal end and a proximal end;
at least one support platform having at least one opening;
said at least one support platform attached through a double pitch attachment style chain to said conveyer;
said conveyer comprising;
(A) a middle segment with a first end and a second end;
(B) a distal end segment rotatably attached to said first end;
(C) a proximal end segment rotatably attached to said second end;
(D) a rotator to rotate and hold in place at a desired angle said distal end segment; and
(E) a rotator to rotate and hold in place at a desired angle said proximal end segment;
at least one lettuce head guide connected to said at least one support platform;
said lettuce head guide comprising outward facing vanes; and
an aqueous solution spraying system fixedly attached at a point along said proximal end segment.
11. An apparatus for washing a plurality of cored heads of lettuce comprising
a conveyer forming a loop with a distal end and a proximal end;
at least one support platform having at least one opening;
said at least one support platform attached to said conveyer;
at least one lettuce head guide connected to said at least one support platform;
said lettuce head guide comprising an elliptical ring; and
an aqueous solution spraying system fixedly attached at a point along said conveyer loop.
12. An apparatus for washing a plurality of cored heads of lettuce comprising
a conveyer forming a loop with a distal end and a proximal end;
at least one support platform having at least one opening;
said at least one support platform attached to said conveyer through a double pitch attachment style chain;
at least one lettuce head guide connected to said at least one support platform;
said lettuce head guide comprising an elliptical ring; and
an aqueous solution spraying system fixedly attached at a point along said conveyer loop.
13. An apparatus for washing a plurality of cored heads of lettuce comprising
a conveyer forming a loop with a distal end and a proximal end;
at least one support platform having at least one opening;
said at least one support platform attached to said conveyer;
said conveyer comprising;
(A) a middle segment with a first end and a second end;
(B) a distal end segment rotatably attached to said first end;
(C) a proximal end segment rotatably attached to said second end;
(D) a rotator to rotate and hold in place at a desired angle said distal end segment; and
(E) a rotator to rotate and hold in place at a desired angle said proximal end segment;
at least one lettuce head guide connected to said at least one support platform;
said lettuce head guide comprising an elliptical ring; and
an aqueous solution spraying system fixedly attached at a point along said conveyer loop.
14. An apparatus for washing a plurality of cored heads of lettuce comprising
a conveyer forming a loop with a distal end and a proximal end;
at least one support platform having at least one opening;
said at least one support platform attached to said conveyer through a double pitch attachment style chain;
said conveyer comprising;
(A) a middle segment with a first end and a second end;
(B) a distal end segment rotatably attached to said first end;
(C) a proximal end segment rotatably attached to said second end;
(D) a rotator to rotate and hold in place at a desired angle said distal end segment; and
(E) a rotator to rotate and hold in place at a desired angle said proximal end segment;
at least one lettuce head guide connected to said at least one support platform;
said lettuce head guide comprising an elliptical ring; and
an aqueous solution spraying system fixedly attached at a point along said conveyer loop.
15. An apparatus for washing a plurality of cored heads of lettuce comprising
a conveyer forming a loop with a distal end and a proximal end;
at least one support platform having at least one opening;
said at least one support platform attached to said conveyer;
said conveyer comprising;
(A) a middle segment with a first end and a second end;
(B) a distal end segment rotatably attached to said first end;
(C) a proximal end segment rotatably attached to said second end;
(D) a rotator to rotate and hold in place at a desired angle said distal end segment; and
(E) a rotator to rotate and hold in place at a desired angle said proximal end segment;
at least one lettuce head guide connected to said at least one support platform;
said lettuce head guide comprising an elliptical ring; and
an aqueous solution spraying system fixedly attached at a point along said proximal end segment.
16. An apparatus for washing a plurality of cored heads of lettuce comprising
a conveyer forming a loop with a distal end and a proximal end;
at least one support platform having at least one opening;
said at least one support platform attached through a double pitch attachment style chain to said conveyer;
said conveyer comprising;
(A) a middle segment with a first end and a second end;
(B) a distal end segment rotatably attached to said first end;
(C) a proximal end segment rotatably attached to said second end;
(D) a rotator to rotate and hold in place at a desired angle said distal end segment; and
(E) a rotator to rotate and hold in place at a desired angle said proximal end segment;
at least one lettuce head guide connected to said at least one support platform;
said lettuce head guide comprising an elliptical ring; and
an aqueous solution spraying system fixedly attached at a point along said proximal end segment.
17. An apparatus for washing a plurality of cored heads of lettuce comprising
a conveyer forming a loop with a distal end and a proximal end;
at least one support platform having at least one opening;
said at least one support platform attached to said conveyer;
at least one lettuce head guide connected to said at least one support platform;
said lettuce head guide comprising a spike; and
an aqueous solution spraying system fixedly attached at a point along said conveyer loop.
18. An apparatus for washing a plurality of cored heads of lettuce comprising
a conveyer forming a loop with a distal end and a proximal end;
at least one support platform having at least one opening;
said at least one support platform attached to said conveyer through a double pitch attachment style chain;
at least one lettuce head guide connected to said at least one support platform;
said lettuce head guide comprising a spike; and
an aqueous solution spraying system fixedly attached at a point along said conveyer loop.
19. An apparatus for washing a plurality of cored heads of lettuce comprising
a conveyer forming a loop with a distal end and a proximal end;
at least one support platform having at least one opening;
said at least one support platform attached to said conveyer;
said conveyer comprising;
(A) a middle segment with a first end and a second end;
(B) a distal end segment rotatably attached to said first end;
(C) a proximal end segment rotatably attached to said second end;
(D) a rotator to rotate and hold in place at a desired angle said distal end segment; and
(E) a rotator to rotate and hold in place at a desired angle said proximal end segment;
at least one lettuce head guide connected to said at least one support platform;
said lettuce head guide comprising a spike; and
an aqueous solution spraying system fixedly attached at a point along said conveyer loop.
20. An apparatus for washing a plurality of cored heads of lettuce comprising
a conveyer forming a loop with a distal end and a proximal end;
at least one support platform having at least one opening;
said at least one support platform attached to said conveyer through a double pitch attachment style chain;
said conveyer comprising;
(A) a middle segment with a first end and a second end;
(B) a distal end segment rotatably attached to said first end;
(C) a proximal end segment rotatably attached to said second end;
(D) a rotator to rotate and hold in place at a desired angle said distal end segment; and
(E) a rotator to rotate and hold in place at a desired angle said proximal end segment;
at least one lettuce head guide connected to said at least one support platform;
said lettuce head guide comprising a spike; and
an aqueous solution spraying system fixedly attached at a point along said conveyer loop.
21. An apparatus for washing a plurality of cored heads of lettuce comprising
a conveyer forming a loop with a distal end and a proximal end;
at least one support platform having at least one opening;
said at least one support platform attached to said conveyer;
said conveyer comprising;
(A) a middle segment with a first end and a second end;
(B) a distal end segment rotatably attached to said first end;
(C) a proximal end segment rotatably attached to said second end;
(D) a rotator to rotate and hold in place at a desired angle said distal end segment; and
(E) a rotator to rotate and hold in place at a desired angle said proximal end segment;
at least one lettuce head guide connected to said at least one support platform;
said lettuce head guide comprising a spike; and
an aqueous solution spraying system fixedly attached at a point along said proximal end segment.
22. An apparatus for washing a plurality of cored heads of lettuce comprising
a conveyer forming a loop with a distal end and a proximal end;
at least one support platform having at least one opening;
said at least one support platform attached through a double pitch attachment style chain to said conveyer;
said conveyer comprising;
(A) a middle segment with a first end and a second end;
(B) a distal end segment rotatably attached to said first end;
(C) a proximal end segment rotatably attached to said second end;
(D) a rotator to rotate and hold in place at a desired angle said distal end segment; and
(E) a rotator to rotate and hold in place at a desired angle said proximal end segment;
at least one lettuce head guide connected to said at least one support platform;
said lettuce head guide comprising a spike; and
an aqueous solution spraying system fixedly attached at a point along said proximal end segment.
23. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising at least one finger located substantially adjacent to said proximal end.
24. An apparatus for washing a plurality of cored heads of lettuce comprising
a conveyer forming a loop with a distal end and a proximal end;
at least one support platform having at least one opening;
said at least one support platform attached to said conveyer;
at least one lettuce head guide connected to said at least one support platform; and
an aqueous solution spraying system fixedly attached at a point along said conveyer loop;
said aqueous solution spraying system comprising;
a tank for holding an aqueous solution;
a pump;
said pump delivering said aqueous solution under pressure to at least one nozzle.
25. An apparatus for washing a plurality of cored heads of lettuce comprising
a conveyer forming a loop with a distal end and a proximal end;
at least one support platform having at least one opening;
said at least one support platform attached to said conveyer;
at least one lettuce head guide connected to said at least one support platform;
an aqueous solution spraying system fixedly attached at a point along said conveyer loop;
said aqueous solution spraying system comprising;
a tank for holding an aqueous solution;
a determiner of a level of said aqueous solution in said tank;
said determiner connected to an inlet valve;
said inlet valve connected to a reservoir containing said aqueous solution;
a pump; and
said pump delivering said aqueous solution under pressure to at least one nozzle.
26. An apparatus for washing a plurality of cored heads of lettuce comprising
a conveyer forming a loop with a distal end and a proximal end;
at least one support platform having at least one opening;
said at least one support platform attached to said conveyer;
at least one lettuce head guide connected to said at least one support platform;
an aqueous solution spraying system fixedly attached at a point along said conveyer loop;
said aqueous solution spraying system comprising;
a tank for holding an aqueous solution;
a pump;
said pump delivering said aqueous solution under pressure to at least one nozzle; and
where said at least one nozzle delivers said aqueous solution at a high pressure and a low volume.
27. An apparatus for washing a plurality of cored heads of lettuce comprising
a conveyer forming a loop with a distal end and a proximal end;
at least one support platform having at least one opening;
said at least one support platform attached to said conveyer;
at least one lettuce head guide connected to said at least one support platform;
an aqueous solution spraying system fixedly attached at a point along said conveyer loop;
said aqueous solution spraying system comprising;
a tank for holding an aqueous solution;
a pump;
said pump delivering said aqueous solution under pressure to at least one nozzle;
where said at least one nozzle delivers said aqueous solution at a low pressure and a high volume.
28. An apparatus for washing a plurality of cored heads of lettuce comprising
a conveyer forming a loop with a distal end and a proximal end;
at least one support platform having at least one opening;
said at least one support platform attached to said conveyer;
at least one lettuce head guide connected to said at least one support platform;
an aqueous solution spraying system fixedly attached at a point along said conveyer loop;
said aqueous solution spraying system comprising;
a tank for holding an aqueous solution;
a pump;
said pump delivering said aqueous solution under pressure to at least two nozzles at least one of which delivers said aqueous solution at a high pressure and a low volume and at least one of which delivers said aqueous solution at a low pressure and a high volume.
29. A method for washing at least one head of lettuce with a cored hole comprising the steps of
placing said at least one cored lettuce head in a position such that the cored hole faces substantially downward;
conveying said at least one cored lettuce head to an aqueous solution spraying system;
delivering an aqueous solution into said core hole for a time and at a pressure sufficient to wash said core hole; and
removing said at least one cored lettuce head from said position.
30. The method of claim 29 wherein said placing step comprises seating said cored lettuce head on a guide which has a path for said aqueous solution, said guide being attached to a support platform which has at least one opening.
31. The method of claim 30 wherein said conveying step comprises conveying said guide along a path forming a loop.
32. The method of claim 31 wherein said path forming a loop has a distal end, and a proximal end, such that said guide is conveyed in a substantially upright position from said distal end to said proximal end, and in a substantially inverted position from said proximal end to said distal end.
33. The method of claim 32 wherein said proximal end is elevated in relation to said distal end.
34. The method of claim 29 where said step of delivering an aqueous solution into said core hole further comprises using
a tank containing said aqueous solution;
at least one nozzle; and
a pump to deliver said aqueous solution to said at least one nozzle.
35. The method of claim 34 where said at least one nozzle sprays said aqueous solution at a high pressure and a low volume.
36. The method of claim 34 where said at least one nozzle sprays said aqueous solution at a low pressure and a high volume.
37. The method of claim 34 where at least two nozzles are used, where at least one nozzle sprays said aqueous solution at a high pressure and a low volume, and where at least one nozzle sprays said aqueous solution at a low pressure and a high volume.
38. The method of claim 34 comprising the further steps of collecting, filtering, and recycling said aqueous solution which drains from said lettuce heads.
39. The method of claim 34 comprising the further step of maintaining a level of said aqueous solution in said tank at a predetermined level.
40. The method of claim 39 wherein said level of said aqueous solution is maintained by using a float level which is connected to an inlet valve connected to a reservoir tank.
41. The method of claim 30 wherein the step of removing said at least one lettuce head from said guide further comprises rotating said lettuce head through an angle to a substantially inverted position.
42. The method of claim 41 wherein the step of removing said at least one lettuce head from said guide further comprises using at least one finger.
US10/727,998 1999-04-20 2003-12-03 Apparatus and methods for washing the cored areas of lettuce heads during harvest Abandoned US20060090780A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US10/727,998 US20060090780A1 (en) 1999-04-20 2003-12-03 Apparatus and methods for washing the cored areas of lettuce heads during harvest

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US09/295,438 US6298865B1 (en) 1999-04-20 1999-04-20 Apparatus and methods for washing the cored areas of lettuce heads during harvest
US09/692,273 US6679276B1 (en) 1999-04-20 2000-10-19 Apparatus and methods for washing the cored areas of lettuce heads during harvest
US10/727,998 US20060090780A1 (en) 1999-04-20 2003-12-03 Apparatus and methods for washing the cored areas of lettuce heads during harvest

Related Parent Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US09/692,273 Continuation US6679276B1 (en) 1999-04-20 2000-10-19 Apparatus and methods for washing the cored areas of lettuce heads during harvest

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US20060090780A1 true US20060090780A1 (en) 2006-05-04

Family

ID=23137738

Family Applications (3)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US09/295,438 Expired - Lifetime US6298865B1 (en) 1999-04-20 1999-04-20 Apparatus and methods for washing the cored areas of lettuce heads during harvest
US09/692,273 Expired - Fee Related US6679276B1 (en) 1999-04-20 2000-10-19 Apparatus and methods for washing the cored areas of lettuce heads during harvest
US10/727,998 Abandoned US20060090780A1 (en) 1999-04-20 2003-12-03 Apparatus and methods for washing the cored areas of lettuce heads during harvest

Family Applications Before (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US09/295,438 Expired - Lifetime US6298865B1 (en) 1999-04-20 1999-04-20 Apparatus and methods for washing the cored areas of lettuce heads during harvest
US09/692,273 Expired - Fee Related US6679276B1 (en) 1999-04-20 2000-10-19 Apparatus and methods for washing the cored areas of lettuce heads during harvest

Country Status (2)

Country Link
US (3) US6298865B1 (en)
CA (1) CA2306288C (en)

Cited By (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20070214763A1 (en) * 2006-03-14 2007-09-20 Dole Fresh Vegetables, Inc. Lettuce harvesting for cup-shaped portions of heads
US8312701B1 (en) 2011-06-10 2012-11-20 Dole Fresh Vegetables, Inc. Decoring mechanism with mechanized harvester
US9861037B2 (en) 2010-10-28 2018-01-09 Dole Fresh Vegetables, Inc. Mechanical produce harvester with gathering belts

Families Citing this family (19)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6235483B1 (en) * 2000-01-31 2001-05-22 Agilent Technologies, Inc. Methods and kits for indirect labeling of nucleic acids
US6843049B2 (en) * 2000-02-18 2005-01-18 Fresh Express, Inc. Systems and methods for harvesting fresh produce
US6626192B2 (en) * 2001-05-15 2003-09-30 Jlg Trucking, Inc. Produce washing method
US20040187467A1 (en) * 2003-03-04 2004-09-30 Garcia Jose Luis Field coring apparatus and method
US20040187466A1 (en) * 2003-03-04 2004-09-30 Garcia, Jose Luis Field coring apparatus and method
US20050112256A1 (en) * 2003-11-24 2005-05-26 Josh Mitchell Method and apparatus for harvesting, washing, and drying cut vegetables and produce
WO2005082033A2 (en) * 2004-02-25 2005-09-09 Fresh Express Incorporated System and method for automatic lettuce harvesting and coring
IL234727B (en) 2013-09-20 2020-09-30 Asml Netherlands Bv Laser-operated light source in an optical system corrected for aberrations and method of designing the optical system
IL234729B (en) 2013-09-20 2021-02-28 Asml Netherlands Bv Laser-operated light source and method including mode scrambler
US9741553B2 (en) 2014-05-15 2017-08-22 Excelitas Technologies Corp. Elliptical and dual parabolic laser driven sealed beam lamps
EP3457429B1 (en) 2014-05-15 2023-11-08 Excelitas Technologies Corp. Laser driven sealed beam lamp with adjustable pressure
US10186416B2 (en) 2014-05-15 2019-01-22 Excelitas Technologies Corp. Apparatus and a method for operating a variable pressure sealed beam lamp
US10008378B2 (en) 2015-05-14 2018-06-26 Excelitas Technologies Corp. Laser driven sealed beam lamp with improved stability
US9576785B2 (en) 2015-05-14 2017-02-21 Excelitas Technologies Corp. Electrodeless single CW laser driven xenon lamp
US10057973B2 (en) 2015-05-14 2018-08-21 Excelitas Technologies Corp. Electrodeless single low power CW laser driven plasma lamp
US10285411B2 (en) * 2016-01-28 2019-05-14 The United States Of America, As Represented By The Secretary Of Agriculture System for cleaning fresh and fresh-cut produce
US10109473B1 (en) 2018-01-26 2018-10-23 Excelitas Technologies Corp. Mechanically sealed tube for laser sustained plasma lamp and production method for same
CN112676259B (en) * 2020-12-30 2022-07-19 广州安费诺诚信软性电路有限公司 Cleaning process of FPC board containing micro-holes
CN114472322A (en) * 2022-02-22 2022-05-13 丘志勇 Belt cleaning device that hawthorn removed dirt and used

Citations (22)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1561809A (en) * 1921-11-16 1925-11-17 Creamery Package Mfg Co Hydraulic washing apparatus
US1765647A (en) * 1929-02-23 1930-06-24 Ulrich J Boehnke Rotary conveyer and washer for vegetables and fruits
US1799819A (en) * 1926-11-09 1931-04-07 Jensen Aage Apparatus for removing and recovering substances adhering to interior of liquid containers
US2134041A (en) * 1936-09-12 1938-10-25 Herbert A Hamm Fruit marking apparatus
US2205131A (en) * 1938-05-03 1940-06-18 American Specialty Company Method of and apparatus for washing vegetables
US2322417A (en) * 1941-08-21 1943-06-22 Christian Jack Vegetable washing machine
US2399205A (en) * 1940-07-27 1946-04-30 Blanche E Campbell Cleaning process
US2467888A (en) * 1944-01-15 1949-04-19 M W Engleman Apparatus for washing plant products
US2671240A (en) * 1949-12-21 1954-03-09 Gerber Prod Washing and drying apparatus
US2822843A (en) * 1956-10-09 1958-02-11 Hershel California Fruit Produ Tomato coring machine
US3022790A (en) * 1955-12-12 1962-02-27 Crane Co Part washing apparatus
US3056414A (en) * 1960-12-30 1962-10-02 Metalwash Machinery Co Article washing machine
US3093175A (en) * 1960-04-01 1963-06-11 Hershel California Fruit Produ Machine for treating tomatoes with lye solution, washing and trimming same
US3105504A (en) * 1960-05-23 1963-10-01 Fmc Corp Apparatus for processing fruit
US3297257A (en) * 1965-02-17 1967-01-10 Roser George Henry Pressurized washing and rinsing apparatus
US3310084A (en) * 1964-03-02 1967-03-21 Fmc Corp Apple coring machine
US3319678A (en) * 1962-07-02 1967-05-16 Fmc Corp Fruit processing machine with means to align tool with work
US3451328A (en) * 1966-07-20 1969-06-24 Dart Ind Inc Container for head lettuce or the like
US3797744A (en) * 1972-11-20 1974-03-19 W Smith Portable cleaning and sanitizing system
US5590591A (en) * 1996-04-18 1997-01-07 Kim; Sun Y. Product processing apparatus including orientation and coring of produce items
US5992310A (en) * 1998-07-30 1999-11-30 Castro; Efren Pitting knives having an axial bore
US6032683A (en) * 1998-02-09 2000-03-07 International Business Machines Corporation System for cleaning residual paste from a mask

Family Cites Families (143)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE266246C (en) *
US3128934A (en) 1964-04-14 Reclosable cartons and blanks therefor
US2627862A (en) 1953-02-10 Crankcase flusher
US804170A (en) * 1904-11-29 1905-11-07 John A Prince Bottle-washing machine.
GB190707554A (en) * 1907-03-28 1907-05-09 Fred Penny Improvements in and relating to Bottle Washing Machines
US910882A (en) 1908-10-15 1909-01-26 George Truesdell Bottle-washing apparatus.
US1003786A (en) * 1910-05-03 1911-09-19 John B Pecht Barrel-cleaning machine.
US1130015A (en) * 1910-08-29 1915-03-02 Goldman & Co Inc E Bottle-washing machine.
US1013051A (en) * 1911-03-22 1911-12-26 Goldman & Company Inc E Bottle-carrier.
US1144023A (en) * 1915-01-23 1915-06-22 Twentieth Century Machinery Co Bottle-washing machine.
US1415506A (en) * 1918-09-21 1922-05-09 Blakeslee & Co G S Washing machine
US1445359A (en) * 1919-09-16 1923-02-13 Scarborough Apparatus for cleaning bottles and like containers
GB169864A (en) * 1920-07-24 1921-10-13 Frederick Boesser Improved turbine washer for drinking glasses and vessels
US1513628A (en) * 1922-07-20 1924-10-28 U S Bottlers Machinery Co Bottle-washing machine
US1648743A (en) * 1925-07-11 1927-11-08 Walter C Sheffield Bottle-washing machine
US1661602A (en) 1926-03-05 1928-03-06 Dary Samuel Milk-can-washing machine
FR624872A (en) * 1926-11-19 1927-07-28 Richard Et Naveau Pot washer
US2011107A (en) * 1929-12-23 1935-08-13 Hobart Mfg Co Method of cleaning articles
GB402436A (en) 1932-04-04 1933-12-04 Gibson Patent Containers Ltd Improvements relating to paperboard boxes and similar containers
US2003326A (en) 1933-01-14 1935-06-04 Charles P Wellman Container
US2214944A (en) 1935-07-08 1940-09-17 Owens Illinois Glass Co Package of liquid or plastic material
US2170378A (en) 1936-02-21 1939-08-22 Gerh Arehns Mek Verkst Ab Container
US2196846A (en) * 1936-05-15 1940-04-09 Smith Corp A O Depitching apparatus
US2367652A (en) * 1937-05-06 1945-01-16 Cherry Burrell Corp Bottle washing machinery
US2156840A (en) * 1937-11-27 1939-05-02 Ford C Davis Apparatus for washing root vegetables
US2294668A (en) 1941-07-14 1942-09-01 Karas Steve Fountain glass washer
US2379789A (en) * 1941-09-13 1945-07-03 Cozzoli Frank Ampule cleansing machine
US2431988A (en) * 1943-02-12 1947-12-02 Frank J Cozzoli Automatic machine for washing containers
US2335913A (en) 1943-02-20 1943-12-07 Sutherland Paper Co Package or container
US2489166A (en) * 1943-03-25 1949-11-22 American Steel Foundries Quenching machine
US2424693A (en) 1943-06-09 1947-07-29 Wingfoot Corp Packaging cheese curd
US2427840A (en) * 1943-09-03 1947-09-23 Ind Patents Corp Washing device
US2417634A (en) * 1944-12-30 1947-03-18 Frank J Cozzoli Dripless tray for ampule washing machines
US2455675A (en) * 1946-12-06 1948-12-07 Zold G Hawk Machine for handling and preparing oysters
GB650385A (en) * 1948-04-07 1951-02-21 Maud Boesser Machine for washing drinking glasses
US2611709A (en) 1949-05-14 1952-09-23 Iowa State College Res Found Package and storage of apples
US2784120A (en) * 1953-04-07 1957-03-05 Nordisk Insulinlab Process for washing vials
FR1077818A (en) * 1953-05-26 1954-11-12 Improvements to bottle washing machines
GB764796A (en) 1954-03-05 1957-01-02 Hesser Ag Maschf Method of, and apparatus for, evacuating and closing filled bags
US2815621A (en) 1955-04-28 1957-12-10 Carter Clarence Freemont Method and apparatus for filling open mouth receptacles
US2920967A (en) 1955-09-21 1960-01-12 Producers Creamery Company Method of packaging liquids
FR1132766A (en) * 1955-10-13 1957-03-15 Domestic appliance for washing glasses or the like
US2895548A (en) * 1956-06-06 1959-07-21 Stephen F Stafford Apparatus for handling fluid materials
US2925210A (en) 1956-10-08 1960-02-16 Crown Zellerbach Corp Heavy-duty container for bulk material
US2955940A (en) 1957-10-11 1960-10-11 Hodges Res & Dev Co Preservative treatment of vegetable produce
US2967777A (en) 1957-10-31 1961-01-10 Paul E Grindrod Method of packaging food products to inhibit growth of molds and bacteria
US3055568A (en) 1960-08-09 1962-09-25 Alliance Paper & Packaging Co Lined containers
US3059654A (en) * 1960-09-02 1962-10-23 Weiner Al Bearing washer
US3094997A (en) * 1960-12-19 1963-06-25 Metalwash Machinery Co Utensil washer
DE1177065B (en) 1961-06-30 1964-08-27 Hesser Ag Maschf Chamber for evacuating and gassing filled packages of all kinds
US3204825A (en) 1961-10-23 1965-09-07 Union Carbide Corp Multi-ply liner bag
US3203437A (en) 1964-01-30 1965-08-31 R G Wright Company Inc Trash and garbage can washer
US3179117A (en) * 1964-03-02 1965-04-20 Cart Cleaning Corp Of America Trailer mounted cleaner
US3225776A (en) * 1964-03-20 1965-12-28 Holstein & Kappert Maschf Container washing apparatus
US3407078A (en) 1964-11-13 1968-10-22 Cons Foods Corp Method of packaging yeast-raised doughnuts
US3261533A (en) 1965-01-22 1966-07-19 Crown Zellerbach Corp Reinforced containers
US3450542A (en) 1965-02-23 1969-06-17 United Fruit Co Controlled atmosphere storage of green bananas
US3419400A (en) 1965-10-22 1968-12-31 Swift & Co Packaging foods-production of oxygen-free packages
GB1125189A (en) 1965-12-11 1968-08-28 Minigrip Europ Aktieselskab Plastics bag material and bags formed therefrom
US3308838A (en) * 1966-04-07 1967-03-14 Metalwash Machinery Corp Baking pan cleaning apparatus
US3521806A (en) 1967-06-14 1970-07-28 Joseph J Esty Carton
US3537899A (en) * 1967-10-20 1970-11-03 Purex Corp Ltd Cleaning six-pack carriers and soda cases
DE1657177C3 (en) * 1968-03-09 1974-05-22 Holstein & Kappert Maschinenfabrik Phoenix Gmbh, 4600 Dortmund Centering device on the spray pipes of bottle washing machines
US3484017A (en) 1968-05-31 1969-12-16 James D O Donnell Container construction
US4061785A (en) 1969-04-26 1977-12-06 Tetsuya Nishino Method and device for preserving vegetables
US3664355A (en) * 1970-07-20 1972-05-23 Robert J Adams Container washing apparatus
GB1378140A (en) 1970-09-23 1974-12-18 Metal Box Co Ltd Flexible packaging
US4006561A (en) 1971-02-05 1977-02-08 Pflanz-Frisch Transportsack Gmbh Plant package and method of preparing the same
US3715860A (en) 1971-07-23 1973-02-13 J Esty Method of preserving perishable products
US3747614A (en) 1971-10-26 1973-07-24 Inmont Corp Washing device
US3798465A (en) * 1972-09-28 1974-03-19 Gen Electric Control arrangement for a washing machine
IT982071B (en) * 1973-03-12 1974-10-21 Cioni A MACHINE FOR WASHING VIALS ORIENTED WITH THE OPENING DOWNWARDS
NL7406922A (en) * 1973-07-12 1975-01-14 Seitz Werke Gmbh SPRAY DEVICE FOR BOTTLE WASHING MACHINES.
US3990358A (en) 1973-12-10 1976-11-09 Cade Alfred F Fruit processing apparatus
US3957179A (en) 1974-01-14 1976-05-18 Olinkraft, Inc. Bulk material container with pouring spout
US3939287A (en) 1974-06-17 1976-02-17 Spicecraft, Inc. Sterilizing apparatus and process
US3945558A (en) 1974-11-19 1976-03-23 International Paper Company Paperboard bulk bin
US3938532A (en) * 1975-02-10 1976-02-17 Barry-Wehmiller Company Container cleaning apparatus
US4423080A (en) 1975-03-10 1983-12-27 Bedrosian And Associates Controlled atmosphere produce package
MX4855E (en) 1975-03-10 1982-11-04 Karakian Bedrosian METHOD FOR DELAYING THE RIPENING OF PACKAGED TOMATOES
US3991543A (en) 1975-04-21 1976-11-16 Continental Can Company, Inc. Sealing unit for autoclave sterilization of flexible packages
IL47235A (en) 1975-05-05 1978-03-10 Arie Solomon Long term storage apparatus
CA1025786A (en) 1975-05-29 1978-02-07 Consolidated-Bathurst Limited 3b pack
US4411921A (en) 1975-12-08 1983-10-25 Transfresh Corporation Method for inhibiting fungal growth on fresh fruits and vegetables
US4001443A (en) 1976-02-10 1977-01-04 Pennwalt Corporation Package and method for packaging and storing cut leafy vegetables
US4168597A (en) 1976-02-17 1979-09-25 Bud Antle, Inc. Lettuce processing apparatus
US4039350A (en) 1976-03-04 1977-08-02 Sioux Steam Cleaner Corporation Industrial cleaning system
US4055931A (en) 1976-07-28 1977-11-01 Furukawa International U.S.A., Inc. Method and apparatus for providing a controlled atmosphere around perishable products
US4209538A (en) 1977-04-04 1980-06-24 Transfresh Corporation Method for inhibiting fungi in citrus fruit
US4089417A (en) 1977-07-25 1978-05-16 Westvaco Corporation Flap lock bulk bin
DE2735532A1 (en) * 1977-08-06 1979-02-15 Bayer Ag LONG SPRAY MACHINE FOR CLEANING GLASS CONTAINERS
US4105153A (en) 1977-08-26 1978-08-08 Champion International Corporation Paperboard bulk bin
US4224347A (en) 1979-06-08 1980-09-23 Transfresh Corporation Process and package for extending the life of cut vegetables
JPS6120590Y2 (en) 1978-07-28 1986-06-20
DE2842204A1 (en) 1978-09-28 1980-04-10 Seyfert Wellpappe Packaging container made from corrugated board - has eight cornered outer covering and is upright in shape consisting of lower and upper rings
US4241558A (en) 1979-01-24 1980-12-30 C.V.P. Systems, Inc. Packaging machine
US4365383A (en) * 1979-06-25 1982-12-28 Elan Pressure Clean Limited Cleaning apparatus for components
US4259297A (en) 1979-09-04 1981-03-31 Olin Corporation Chromate removal from concentrated chlorate solution by chemical precipitation
US4296860A (en) 1979-11-28 1981-10-27 Union Carbide Corporation Bulk material box
US4268555A (en) 1979-12-26 1981-05-19 Union Carbide Corporation Wide-folding hinge
US4343429A (en) 1981-05-01 1982-08-10 Weyerhaeuser Company Octagonal bulk bin
DE3131333A1 (en) 1981-08-07 1983-02-24 Klaus 5600 Wuppertal Schäfer DEVICE FOR RINSING DRINKING VESSELS
US4454945A (en) 1982-09-10 1984-06-19 Owens-Illinois Inc. Multiwall container
US4516692A (en) 1982-02-17 1985-05-14 Williamette Industries, Inc. Disposable container assembly for liquids or semi-liquids in bulk
DE3207646A1 (en) * 1982-03-03 1983-09-15 Netzsch-Newamatic-GmbH, 8264 Waldkraiburg Device for washing-out bags, especially breathing bags for anaesthetic purposes
GB8318442D0 (en) 1983-07-07 1983-08-10 Wincanton Eng Packaging of block of cheese
US4515266A (en) 1984-03-15 1985-05-07 St. Regis Corporation Modified atmosphere package and process
US4670227A (en) 1984-08-10 1987-06-02 Bio-Environmental Systems, Inc. Apparatus and method for handling of infectious waste material
EP0192347B1 (en) 1985-02-12 1989-09-06 Fgl Projects Limited Improvements in or relating to vacuum packaging
US4962777A (en) * 1985-05-21 1990-10-16 Transfresh Corporation Systems for cleaning and cooling produce
US5226972A (en) 1985-05-21 1993-07-13 Transfresh Corporation Methods and means for cleaning and cooling produce
DE3687987T2 (en) 1985-11-14 1993-07-01 Seawell Corp Nv PACKAGING.
US4702408A (en) 1986-05-23 1987-10-27 The Mead Corporation Bulk bin
US4759642A (en) 1986-08-11 1988-07-26 Minigrip, Inc. Reclosable bag especially suitable for cereal packaging, and method
GB2200618B (en) 1987-02-19 1989-06-14 Michael Greengrass Controlled ripening of produce and fruits
US4744203A (en) 1987-03-10 1988-05-17 Alfa-Laval Cheese Systems Limited Machine for vacuum-sealing a package
US4756417A (en) 1987-05-26 1988-07-12 Teixeira Farms, Inc. Produce bin
US4963287A (en) 1987-05-26 1990-10-16 The Drackett Company Aqueous alkali metal halogenite compositions
US4813791A (en) 1987-09-18 1989-03-21 Multiform Desiccants, Inc. Bag with integral material treating packets
US4798574A (en) 1987-12-09 1989-01-17 Bagcraft Corporation Of America Method of making a bag with a barrier material
US4930906A (en) 1989-08-21 1990-06-05 Hemphill Fred S Cooking grease disposal bag
US5093080B1 (en) 1989-11-06 1995-01-24 Partnership P C P Conservation process for agricultural products
US4967776A (en) 1989-12-12 1990-11-06 Gordon Folmar Oil filter cleaning system
US5044776A (en) 1990-04-27 1991-09-03 Morgan Adhesives Company Resealable closure system
US5458899A (en) 1990-09-05 1995-10-17 Weyerhaeuser Company Method of packaging perishable food or horticultural products
US5078509A (en) 1990-09-28 1992-01-07 Recot, Inc. Resealable package
US5121589A (en) 1991-09-05 1992-06-16 Bud Of California Apparatus and process for the automated packing of lettuce
US5316778A (en) * 1991-11-29 1994-05-31 Global Prepcorp Method for processing leafy vegetables for extended storage
US5346089A (en) 1992-07-20 1994-09-13 Brown Richard S Produce packaging and methods of sealing same
US5402906A (en) 1992-07-16 1995-04-04 Brown; Richard S. Fresh produce container system
US5354569A (en) 1992-07-16 1994-10-11 Brown Richard S Method of packaging lettuce for storing and shipping
FR2694165B1 (en) * 1992-07-30 1994-10-14 Cotentin Ste Legumiere Machine for peeling salads.
US5357993A (en) 1992-09-25 1994-10-25 St Martin Marty Produce washer
DE4445152A1 (en) * 1994-12-17 1996-06-20 Kodak Ag Device for emptying and cleaning the inside of photographic chemical containers into a mixing chamber
US5522410A (en) 1994-12-22 1996-06-04 Meilleur; Michel Portable single-cup washer
US5727690A (en) 1995-10-05 1998-03-17 Hofmeister; William M. Method and apparatus for processing leafy vegetables
US5713101A (en) 1995-12-13 1998-02-03 Jackson; Robert L. Nozzles and container cleaning system
US5803984A (en) * 1996-02-09 1998-09-08 Danieli Wean, A Division Of Danieli Corporation Method and apparatus for rinsing steel product
US5728439A (en) 1996-12-04 1998-03-17 Ppg Industries, Inc. Multilayer packaging material for oxygen sensitive food and beverage
US5915397A (en) * 1997-08-08 1999-06-29 Intercontinental Chemical Corporation Low pressure-high volume water washoff apparatus and process for cleaning and reclaiming screens
US5885002A (en) 1997-11-03 1999-03-23 Reiss; Jean K. Recycling apparatus and system
US6041797A (en) 1997-12-09 2000-03-28 Casselman; David S Apparatus for cleaning a vacuum drum
US6276375B1 (en) * 1998-09-01 2001-08-21 Fresh Express, Inc. Apparatus and methods for washing cores of cored lettuce heads

Patent Citations (22)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1561809A (en) * 1921-11-16 1925-11-17 Creamery Package Mfg Co Hydraulic washing apparatus
US1799819A (en) * 1926-11-09 1931-04-07 Jensen Aage Apparatus for removing and recovering substances adhering to interior of liquid containers
US1765647A (en) * 1929-02-23 1930-06-24 Ulrich J Boehnke Rotary conveyer and washer for vegetables and fruits
US2134041A (en) * 1936-09-12 1938-10-25 Herbert A Hamm Fruit marking apparatus
US2205131A (en) * 1938-05-03 1940-06-18 American Specialty Company Method of and apparatus for washing vegetables
US2399205A (en) * 1940-07-27 1946-04-30 Blanche E Campbell Cleaning process
US2322417A (en) * 1941-08-21 1943-06-22 Christian Jack Vegetable washing machine
US2467888A (en) * 1944-01-15 1949-04-19 M W Engleman Apparatus for washing plant products
US2671240A (en) * 1949-12-21 1954-03-09 Gerber Prod Washing and drying apparatus
US3022790A (en) * 1955-12-12 1962-02-27 Crane Co Part washing apparatus
US2822843A (en) * 1956-10-09 1958-02-11 Hershel California Fruit Produ Tomato coring machine
US3093175A (en) * 1960-04-01 1963-06-11 Hershel California Fruit Produ Machine for treating tomatoes with lye solution, washing and trimming same
US3105504A (en) * 1960-05-23 1963-10-01 Fmc Corp Apparatus for processing fruit
US3056414A (en) * 1960-12-30 1962-10-02 Metalwash Machinery Co Article washing machine
US3319678A (en) * 1962-07-02 1967-05-16 Fmc Corp Fruit processing machine with means to align tool with work
US3310084A (en) * 1964-03-02 1967-03-21 Fmc Corp Apple coring machine
US3297257A (en) * 1965-02-17 1967-01-10 Roser George Henry Pressurized washing and rinsing apparatus
US3451328A (en) * 1966-07-20 1969-06-24 Dart Ind Inc Container for head lettuce or the like
US3797744A (en) * 1972-11-20 1974-03-19 W Smith Portable cleaning and sanitizing system
US5590591A (en) * 1996-04-18 1997-01-07 Kim; Sun Y. Product processing apparatus including orientation and coring of produce items
US6032683A (en) * 1998-02-09 2000-03-07 International Business Machines Corporation System for cleaning residual paste from a mask
US5992310A (en) * 1998-07-30 1999-11-30 Castro; Efren Pitting knives having an axial bore

Cited By (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20070214763A1 (en) * 2006-03-14 2007-09-20 Dole Fresh Vegetables, Inc. Lettuce harvesting for cup-shaped portions of heads
US7861415B2 (en) * 2006-03-14 2011-01-04 Dole Fresh Vegetables, Inc. Lettuce harvesting for cup-shaped portions of heads
US8074365B2 (en) 2006-03-14 2011-12-13 Dole Fresh Vegetables, Inc. Lettuce harvesting for cup-shaped portions of heads
US9861037B2 (en) 2010-10-28 2018-01-09 Dole Fresh Vegetables, Inc. Mechanical produce harvester with gathering belts
US8312701B1 (en) 2011-06-10 2012-11-20 Dole Fresh Vegetables, Inc. Decoring mechanism with mechanized harvester
US8631635B2 (en) 2011-06-10 2014-01-21 Dole Fresh Vegetables, Inc. Decoring mechanism with mechanized harvester
US9072225B2 (en) 2011-06-10 2015-07-07 Dole Fresh Vegetables, Inc. Method of harvesting and decoring produce using a mechanical harvester
US9565801B2 (en) 2011-06-10 2017-02-14 Dole Fresh Vegetables, Inc. Decoring mechanism with mechanized harvester

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
CA2306288C (en) 2008-07-15
CA2306288A1 (en) 2000-10-20
US6298865B1 (en) 2001-10-09
US6679276B1 (en) 2004-01-20

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US6298865B1 (en) Apparatus and methods for washing the cored areas of lettuce heads during harvest
US7748205B2 (en) Harvesting machine and method of harvesting pomegranates and citrus
US6027403A (en) Crop remover assembly
US3512714A (en) Sprayer
JP2002509429A (en) Apparatus and method for cleaning poultry
US4519191A (en) Strawberry harvester and procedures for growing and harvesting of such fruit
US7062899B2 (en) Lettuce harvesting apparatus and method therefor
WO2003069975A1 (en) A fruit harvester
CA1170129A (en) Livestock spray apparatus
US4255922A (en) Apparatus for use in drying and harvesting vine borne crops and performing other work operations
US2893194A (en) Grape harvester
US5522544A (en) Orchard or grove sprayer
US4294063A (en) Harvester and method for harvesting green tomatoes
US4222520A (en) Irrigation machine
CN108967152A (en) A kind of agricultural is with from traveling root watering device
KR20020089287A (en) Apparatus for washing and husking bulbs using High pressure water
US4862683A (en) Apparatus for harvesting berries on low plants
US3328944A (en) Grape harvesting machine
JP3401001B2 (en) Turf processing
US3240276A (en) Root crop harvesting and processing machine
GB2115263A (en) Harvesting fruit
KR20220040132A (en) Chemical solution injection system for passenger lawnmowers
CN206660724U (en) A kind of water chestnut harvester water feeding of water pump filter
Le Flufy The design of a prototype apple harvester
KR102410448B1 (en) Apparatus For Ark Shell seed

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
STCB Information on status: application discontinuation

Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION