Feller, R.
Coble, C.G.
Dillon Jr., R.C.

A laboratory technique based on the observation of onion orientation on a rod table was used to predict the effect of the oscillatory motion and other variables on the trimming efficiency. Field tests were also made to evaluate the concept on a field trimming machine. Results indicate that for efficient trimming by a machine using rotary blades beneath a rod table, onions should be oriented with stems and roots pointing down. Laboratory study showed that oscillatory motion of the rubber fingers that convey the onions along the rods, at the proper frequency, improved the orientation for trimming 4 to 14 times compared to no oscillation. Application to a field trimming unit significantly improved the actual trimming efficiency.