Improved Design for Soil Separation and Vine Removal Mechanisms on a Potato Harvester

A pressure belt mechanism was developed to operate on the surface of the primary conveyor of a potato harvester. The mechanism was designed to enhance the soil sieving capability of the primary conveyor while reducing tuber damage. This approach allowed the elimination of the secondary conveyor on an experimental harvester. It also permitted the installation of a vine removal system which catches vines between two spring loaded belts. The mechanisms performed well on an experimental harvester during a three year study. Tuber injury was significantly lower compared to commercial harvesters. The conveyor speed/forward speed ratio and the magnitude of vibration of the primary conveyor did not affect the level of mechanical injury of the potatoes. The vine removal system successfully removed vines and other trash while detaching tubers from the stems.