A new approach in mechanical Walnuts harvesting

An important problem in harvesting walnuts is the case of harvesting machines for reducing the financial costs and labor injuries. Walnut harvesting is a costly and laborious practice in Iran¡ which causes significant costs and labor injuries each year. For resolving this problem¡ a simple and new machine designed and a prototype was fabricated. The mechanical range of operation of this machine is up to nine meters hight. It was simply operated by a motorcycle engine. This techniqe causes this equipment to be operational and practical in steep lands. With comparison to the traditional methods of walnuts harvesting¡ this machine improves safety and is easy to use¡ and there is no machine like this in Iran. It is worth mentioning that the capability and efficiency of the machine were tested and measured by different parameters such as speed and height. The results showed that there is a significant difference between the height levels (less than 2m¡ 2-3.5m¡ 3.5-5 m¡ 5-6.5 m) and also this machine is highly economical for the farmers as well as safe for the labors who are working in walnut trees. Based on results and investigations¡ this machine can be used to ease walnut harvesting in Iran.