Company Filing History:
5 out of 15,471 
2 out of 14 
1 out of 832,812 Years Active: 1976-1987
Title: Innovations of Thomas S Bettencourt
Introduction
Thomas S Bettencourt is a notable inventor based in Isleton, California. He has made significant contributions to agricultural technology, particularly in the field of tomato harvesting. With a total of 8 patents to his name, Bettencourt's inventions have streamlined the harvesting process, making it more efficient and effective.
Latest Patents
One of his latest patents is a single-row tomato harvester. This innovative machine is designed to be fully supported on its own wheels, which are spaced apart to bridge previously harvested beds and ride in their furrows. The tractor features its own hydraulic pump and a power take-off unit along its longitudinal centerline. The harvester assembly, which has no motive power, is partially supported on wheels that are spaced apart widthwise at a distance similar to that of the tractor. During harvesting, the harvester is offset by one bed from the tractor. A tongue pivotally attached to both the harvester and the tractor supports a hydraulic pump that operates the harvester's powered means. The design includes a longitudinally rigid drive line that is swivel mounted to the pump's rotary shaft and the tractor's power take-off unit, allowing for automatic lengthening and shortening. Additionally, a hydraulically powered cylinder-piston apparatus is included for shifting the harvester's position relative to the tractor.
Another notable patent is a tomato harvester that utilizes a standard tractor to pull a non-self powered harvester assembly. This assembly is partially supported on wheels and by the tractor itself. The main frame consists of two parallel longitudinal beams joined by three transverse cross members. The frame supports a pivotally attached pickup unit, a separator unit for separating tomatoes from plants, and a conveyor system for transporting the collected tomatoes to bin-trailers. The harvester is equipped with a hydraulic fluid storage tank and a cooling device, ensuring efficient operation.
Career Highlights
Throughout his career, Thomas S Bettencourt has worked with esteemed organizations such as the University of California and Blackwelders. His experience in these institutions has contributed to his innovative approach to agricultural machinery.
Collaborations
Bettencourt has collaborated with notable individuals in his field, including Darryl G Bettencourt and Lowell K Marshall. Their combined expertise has likely influenced the development of his inventions.
Conclusion
Thomas S Bettencourt