Blueline BH300 Berry Harvester

Blueline Mfg took all of the things we have learned with the BH100 and BH200 and designed this berry harvesting machine to make it the best berry harvester on the market. As with our other harvesters, the goal from the onset of this project was to reduce the loss of fruit through the collection system. In many cases, according to growers, this loss was up to 20% of the total crop. With a creative way of moving the crop using high volume, low pressure air, we have reduced the loss to the ground by as much as 50%. This system also incorporates a newly designed collection ear which is much lighter, but very strong, with a wider edge to reduce friction against the plants. Our new collection system uses a rubber “spring block” rather than conventional springs. This system is much simpler to maintain and longer lasting.

Also, Blueline was determined to improve the operator platform and controls. Using a proven system called CANBUS, we were able to reduce the wiring and hydraulic hose circuits by about 25%. You will notice a very clean and uncluttered operator area and controls. Using a touch screen control system we can now adjust all major control functions from a simple control pad. This system also gives speed indications of each function.

As with our BH100, we have improved the platform and lifting mechanism. We did away with the cylinder and cable lifting system commonly found on berry harvesters and replaced it with an all-hydraulic system. This is much cleaner and more trouble free. We also made an effort to make sure the load was centered over the rear axle. This, of course, increases stability and traction.

The drive system is “all wheel drive” meaning oil is reduced to any wheel that has lost traction forcing oil to the other wheels that have traction. Blueline also included a “cruise control” system. This system maintains a pre-set speed regardless of uphill, downhill, or load.

Blueline looked at the harvesting head as well. Our design incorporates an offset design that increase productivity and helps improve the fruit drop problem.

This new and improved, more compact berry harvester is the culmination of years of in-field experience and grower input. It is just one more way Blueline is striving to improve the process of harvesting soft berries while reducing cost and improving productivity.