Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1991-1993
Title: Innovations by Donald Windemuller
Introduction
Donald Windemuller is an accomplished inventor based in Holland, MI (US). He has made significant contributions to agricultural technology, particularly in the field of crop harvesting. With a total of 3 patents, Windemuller has developed innovative solutions that enhance the efficiency of blueberry picking.
Latest Patents
One of Windemuller's notable inventions is a blueberry picking machine featuring a straddle-type, self-propelled design. This machine has an inverted U-shaped frame that allows it to pass over rows of crop-bearing bushes. The frame includes a longitudinal opening for the bushes to pass through, and it is equipped with a pair of spaced, freely rotatable picking members. These members are supported by a subframe that is pivotally attached to the main frame, allowing for optimal harvesting. The machine utilizes an air bag system to adjust the height of the picking assembly and to isolate vibrations. Additionally, a bearing assembly supports a housing with two rotatable eccentric weights that create both vertical and horizontal forces, enabling the picking fingers to gently harvest the crop.
Another innovative design by Windemuller is a blueberry picking machine that incorporates brush-like bush contacting members. These members rotate freely upon contact with the bushes and are vertically reciprocated by a driver unit containing counter-rotating weights. This mechanism dislodges ripened fruit, which then falls onto movable catcher pans. The fruit is subsequently transported via conveyor belts to the rear of the machine. An air source is integrated to clean the picked fruit, ensuring high-quality harvests.
Career Highlights
Throughout his career, Donald Windemuller has focused on developing advanced agricultural machinery. His inventions have significantly improved the efficiency of blueberry harvesting, making the process less labor-intensive and more effective. Windemuller’s work exemplifies the intersection of innovation and practicality in agricultural technology.
Collaborations
Windemuller has collaborated with Wayne A Vogel, contributing to the development and refinement of his inventions. Their partnership has fostered a creative environment that encourages the exploration of new ideas and technologies in the field of crop harvesting.
Conclusion
Donald Windemuller is a pioneering inventor whose contributions to blueberry harvesting technology have made a lasting impact on the agricultural industry. His innovative designs continue to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of crop harvesting practices.