Pruning system

Abstract

A pruning vehicle having characteristics specifically utilizable in an orchard having rows of trees opposite each other. The vehicle is equipped with two platforms side by side which can be adjustably located vertically and horizontally in a plane perpendicular to the direction of the vehicle's motion. Each platform is controllable by an operator standing upon the platform through foot pedals incorporated thereon. Platforms are elevated above the vehicle by lifting structures designed to keep the platforms level to the ground at all times. The platforms are connected to a frame of the vehicle at a low slung central portion of the frame for added stability. Wheels of the vehicle are of a thin disc shape. Each wheel can slice through soft surfaces such as mud to attain a firm foundation for the pruning vehicle. Fins and teeth on the wheels provide added traction. Mud deflectors on the wheels prohibit mud from climbing up too high onto or bogging down the pruning vehicle. The wheels are powered by hydraulic motors which are powered by an engine mounted upon the frame of the vehicle. The engine also powers hydraulic rams which steer all four wheels of the vehicle and adjust the locations of the platforms. The motion and steering of the pruning vehicle is controllable from one of the platforms, eliminating the need for an additional operator on the vehicle to drive the pruning vehicle. One form of the invention links vertical motion of the platforms together while preserving independent horizontal motion of the platforms. In this embodiment the platforms are connected by a walkway allowing operators to pass between the platforms on opposite sides of the pruning vehicle without climbing off of or lowering the platforms.