On the advancement of technology

One of the interesting features about Google Web search is the ability to search through U.S. patents. I recently did just that and focus on patents on developments in mechanized harvest equipment for fresh produce.

Here are a couple that I stumbled on:
Tree harvester trunk seal:Richard A. Briesemeister
A device for maintaining a seal between a first object and a second object is disclosed. The device comprises a retractable arm mounted to and extending from the first object towards the second object. The device also comprises a sealing arrangement mounted at a distal end of the retractable arm. The sealing arrangement includes a sealing member and a sensor configured to engage the second object and provide input to the retractable arm so as to maintain a predetermined distance between the distal end of the retractable arm and the second object. As a result, a seal is formed and maintained between the first object and the second object.

Mechanized harvesting machine with rotating picking elements Henry Rodriguez
A harvesting machine particularly suitable for picking or harvesting vegetables, such as peppers or tomatoes, employs a harvesting frame on which is mounted a rotating shaft aligned transversely to the direction of movement of the machine. A pair of spaced apart picking members are mounted on the shaft on opposite sides of a row of plants having a crop to be harvested. The picking members are simultaneously rotated; and each of them has a plurality of arcuate picking elements pivotally mounted on them.

TK The trade may want to keep up with new transgenic varieties, in addition to packing machine advancements, production and harvest related technology bright ideas through the Google site.