Importance

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Abstract

A cutting system for plants includes opposed first cutting assemblies and opposed second cutting assemblies. The first cutting assemblies include a substantially vertical stack of cage type cutters and a lower cutter having stationary and rotating cutter members. The cage type cutters include an outer driven guard that moves the plants past the stationary cutters. Opener wheels have a diameter slightly greater than the cutters and engage posts and other objects to position the cutting assemblies and to prevent damage to the cutting assemblies and trellises. Side cutter assemblies are positioned forward of the vertical stack of first cutting assemblies and provide precision side cuts. The side cutters include stationary cutter members and rotating cutter members that provide a precise shearing action. The system rotational speed is controlled to maintain a speed proportional to the ground speed so that a substantially constant percentage of plant material is removed.

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First Claim