Inventors:
Gloria E. Felix - Huntington Beach CA
International Classification:
A01D 4500
Abstract:
A machine that attaches to a tractor is structured to reap, blind, and shock mature sesame plants. The machine is capable of engaging two rows of plants simultaneously, the two stalkways merging into one prior to the tying mechanism. Each row of plants is severed at the base by a pair of disc cutters. The cut stalks are moved rearwardly in an upright position by vertically disposed conveyor belts having fingers attached thereto to grasp the stalks. The stalks from both stalkways are gathered at a first tying station having two tying mechanisms which ties them into bundles. The bundles are moved rearwardly on a horizontal conveyor belt to a second tying station having one tyer where the bundles are gathered and tied together into stacks of optimum size. The stacks, comprising about five bundles each, slide down a ramp to engage the stubble of the cut sesame plants. The stacks stand upright on the ground thereafter to dry naturally.