Slicing machine

Abstract

Provided is a method for forming an aggregate (M) of food pieces (m) by arranging a plurality of food pieces (m) so that at least some of the food pieces overlap each other. In this method, the number of food pieces (m) forming each aggregate (M) and the pitch (K) at which the food pieces (m) are arranged are automatically changed, the weight of each aggregate (M) is controlled within a predetermined allowable range, and the entire length of each aggregate (M) is formed to a set length (A). Furthermore, according to the length (A) of the food sheets (m) in the arrangement direction, the number of the food sheets (m) forming each aggregate (M) and the pitch (K) at which the food sheets (m) are arranged are automatically changed.

Description

[0001] Related divisional applications

[0002] This patent application is a divisional application of the invention patent application with application number 202180037870.4 and titled "Food Slice Assembly Forming Method and Food Slice Assembly Forming Device". The application date of the original application is May 28, 2021. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for forming a food piece assembly from a plurality of food pieces. Background Art

[0004] Conventional methods and devices for forming food slice assemblies include, for example, methods and devices for sequentially slicing block foods such as raw meat, processed meat, and cheese into thin slices, and then arranging these multiple food slices so that portions overlap to form an assembly of food slices. By forming multiple food slices into an assembly in this manner, storage in a container is facilitated, improving the efficiency of food processing plants. Furthermore, the food slices can be easily separated and removed from the container, improving cooking convenience. Furthermore, when the food is raw meat, the thinly sliced raw meat is typically assembled by arranging 5 to 10 folded slices side by side to form an assembly of meat slices. This assembly is then packaged on a tray, displayed with a gross weight or a unit price, and marketed as a commercial product.

[0005] Patent Document 1 discloses a method and apparatus for forming such a collection of food slices. A block of raw meat is cut vertically from its top end to form a plurality of thin slices. These slices are then folded at their midpoints and arranged side by side with portions of the folded slices overlapping to form a collection. Patent Document 2 also discloses a method for transporting a collection of thin slices at predetermined intervals and storing them on a tray. Furthermore, Patent Document 3 discloses a method for automatically changing the number of slices arranged side by side and the thickness of the slices as the weight of the collection approaches a set weight.

[0006] Prior art literature

[0007] Patent Literature

[0008] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 4264518

[0009] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent No. 5875156

[0010] Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent No. 4942696 Summary of the Invention

[0011] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0012] However, block-shaped foods, such as raw meat, do not have a uniform cross-sectional shape from the top to the back; rather, this cross-sectional shape varies irregularly. Therefore, even when sliced to a uniform thickness, the size (length) and weight of the resulting food slices are not uniform. Consequently, when the same number of food slices are stacked at the same spacing, the resulting aggregate will have varying lengths and weights. Such variations in weight across the aggregate make it difficult to ensure consistency in the weight display bar and the accompanying price display bar, requiring manual adjustments and reducing operational efficiency.

[0013] Furthermore, using the technology disclosed in Patent Document 3 to automatically change the number of food slices and the cut thickness of the food slices in parallel can reduce weight variations within each assembly of the food slices, but because the spacing between the food slices in parallel is not automatically adjusted, the overall length of the assembly cannot be made uniform. This overall length variation can lead to problems such as the following: the overall length of the assembly being too long, causing it to protrude from a container such as a tray when stored therein; or, conversely, the overall length of the assembly being too short, creating gaps within the container and requiring manual rearrangement of the food slices, thus reducing work efficiency. Furthermore, the thickness variations among the food slices stored on the same container such as a tray can lead to a decrease in product value.

[0014] The present invention solves the above-mentioned problems of the prior art and aims to realize a method and apparatus for forming a food piece assembly that can make the entire length of the food piece assembly uniform and reduce weight variations of the assembly.

[0015] Solutions to Problems

[0016] To solve the above-mentioned problems, according to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for forming an aggregate (M) of food slices (m) by arranging a plurality of food slices (m) so that at least a portion of the slices overlap one another. In this method for forming an aggregate of food slices, the pitch (K) between the arranged food slices (m) is automatically changed, and the total length of each aggregate (M) is formed to a predetermined length (E).

[0017] To solve the above-mentioned problems, according to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for forming an aggregate (M) of food slices (m) by arranging a plurality of food slices (m) so that at least a portion of the slices overlap one another. In this method for forming an aggregate (M) of food slices, the number of food slices (m) forming each aggregate (M) and the pitch (K) between the arranged food slices (m) are automatically changed to reduce weight variation among the aggregates (M) and to achieve a predetermined total length (A) for each aggregate (M).

[0018] To solve the above-mentioned problems, according to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a food piece assembly forming apparatus that cuts a block of food (MF) at its top end and arranges a plurality of cut food pieces (m) so that at least a portion of the cut pieces overlap, thereby forming an assembly (M) of the food pieces (m). The apparatus comprises: a thickness measuring unit that measures the thickness (X) of the top end of the cut block of food (MF); a length calculating unit that calculates the length (A) of the cut food pieces (m) in the arrangement direction based on the thickness (X) measured by the thickness measuring unit; and a spacing changing unit that automatically changes the spacing (K) between the arranged food pieces (m). In the apparatus, the spacing changing unit is activated based on the length (A) calculated by the length calculating unit, thereby forming the total length of each assembly (M) to a set length (E).

[0019] To solve the above-mentioned problems, according to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a food piece aggregate forming apparatus that cuts a block of food (MF) at its top end and arranges a plurality of cut food pieces (m) so that at least a portion of the cut food pieces (m) overlap one another to form an aggregate (M) of food pieces (m). The apparatus comprises: a thickness measuring unit that measures the thickness (X) of the top end of the cut block of food (MF); a length calculating unit that calculates the length (A) of the cut food pieces (m) in the arrangement direction based on the thickness (X) measured by the thickness measuring unit; a quantity changing unit that automatically changes the number of food pieces (m) forming the aggregate (M); and a pitch changing unit that automatically changes the pitch (K) between the arranged food pieces (m). In this apparatus, the quantity changing unit and the pitch changing unit are operated based on the length (A) calculated by the length calculating unit, thereby reducing weight variations among the aggregates (M) and ensuring that the total length of each aggregate (M) is a set length (E). BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] Figure 1 This is a top view of a food cutting and conveying device equipped with the article storage control device of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 2 This is a right side view of a food cutting and conveying device equipped with the article storage control device of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 3 This is a front view of a food cutting and conveying device equipped with the article storage control device of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 4 This is a left side view for explanation showing a food cutting and conveying device equipped with the article storage control device of the present invention, cut away at the middle portion in the left-right direction.

[0024] Figure 5This is a diagram illustrating the transmission of a food cutting and conveying device equipped with the article storage control device of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 6 This is a left side view of the supply unit.

[0026] Figure 7 It is a top view of the supply unit.

[0027] Figure 8 It is a top view of the cut portion.

[0028] Figure 9 This is a front view of a frame member provided at the delivery port of the supply unit.

[0029] Figure 10 1 and 2 are right side views of a cut portion, (a) is a right side view for explaining the cut portion, and (b) is an enlarged view of a portion surrounded by a one-dot chain line in (a).

[0030] Figure 11 This is a left side view for explaining the periphery of the cutting section and the delivery section.

[0031] Figure 12 It is a top view for explaining the periphery of the cutting portion and the delivery portion.

[0032] Figure 13 This is an explanatory left side view showing an assembly of folded meat slices.

[0033] Figure 14 It is a right side view of the conveying action part on the downstream side in the conveying direction.

[0034] Figure 15 It is a top view of the conveying action part on the downstream side in the conveying direction.

[0035] Figure 16 It is a top view of the article moving device in a closed state.

[0036] Figure 17 This is a front view of the article moving device in a closed state.

[0037] Figure 18 This is a top view of the article moving device when adjusting the interval.

[0038] Figure 19 This is a front view of the article moving device when adjusting the interval.

[0039] Figure 20 It is a top view of the article moving device in the open state.

[0040] Figure 21 This is a front view of the article moving device in the open state.

[0041] Figure 22It is a left side view of the article moving device, (a) shows the working state, and (b) shows the maintenance state.

[0042] Figure 23 This is an explanatory diagram of a transfer body of an article transfer device.

[0043] Figure 24 These are front views for explaining the operating states of the article moving device, (a) showing a closed state, and (b) showing an open state.

[0044] Figure 25 A rear view illustrating the container supply unit.

[0045] Figure 26 This is an explanatory diagram of the main parts of the container supply unit.

[0046] Figure 27 This is an explanatory diagram of the main parts of the container supply unit.

[0047] Figure 28 This is a left side view for explaining the operating state of the periphery of the article moving device.

[0048] Figure 29 This is a left side view for explaining the operating state of the periphery of the article moving device.

[0049] Figure 30 This is a plan view for explaining the periphery of the article moving device in an initial state before adjustment of the interval.

[0050] Figure 31 This is a front view for explaining the periphery of the article moving device in an initial state before the interval is adjusted.

[0051] Figure 32 This is a plan view of the periphery of the article moving device for explaining adjustment of the interval.

[0052] Figure 33 This is a front view of the periphery of the article moving device for explaining adjustment of the interval.

[0053] Figure 34 It is a top view for explaining the periphery of the article moving device in the mid-open state.

[0054] Figure 35 This is a front view for explaining the periphery of the article moving device in the open mid-state.

[0055] Figure 36 It is a top view for explaining the periphery of the article moving device in the open state.

[0056] Figure 37 This is a front view for explaining the periphery of the article moving device in an open state.

[0057] Figure 38 This is a left side view for explaining the operation state of the periphery of the article moving device in the storage completed state.

[0058] Figure 39 This is the air pressure circuit diagram of the cylinder.

[0059] Figure 40 It is a circuit block diagram.

[0060] Figure 41 This is the front part of the control flow chart.

[0061] Figure 42 This is the latter part of the control flow chart.

[0062] Figure 43 It is an explanatory diagram showing the formation state of the aggregate.

[0063] Figure 44 It is an explanatory diagram showing the change in height of a block of meat.

[0064] Figure 45 This is an explanatory diagram conceptually showing the relationship between the height of a meat block and the total weight of an assembly of meat slices.

[0065] Figure 46 This is the first flow chart of storage control.

[0066] Figure 47 This is the second flow chart of storage control.

[0067] Figure 48 This is the third flow chart of storage control.

[0068] Figure 49 This is an explanatory diagram of storage control. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0069] The embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail using a slicer as an example. The slicer continuously cuts a block of meat MF, forming a plurality of meat slices m into a plurality of pieces of aggregate M (the "article" in the claims) for transport. Furthermore, based on the transport direction of the block of meat and the aggregate of meat slices cut by the slicer, the upstream side is defined as the "rear side," the downstream side is defined as the "front side," the left side facing the downstream side is defined as the "left side," and the right side is defined as the "right side."

[0070] (Overall structure of slicer)

[0071] like Figures 1 to 3As shown, the slicer 1 is constructed by providing a supply section 3, a cutting section 4, a conveying section 5, a storage section 6 and a control section 7 on a machine table (base) 2 serving as a base. The machine table 2 is a rectangular frame having a predetermined height when viewed from above. The supply section 3 receives the block of meat put in by the operator and conveys it forward, and the cutting section 4 cuts the front end of the block of meat protruding forward from the front end of the supply section 3 with a predetermined thickness. The conveying section 5 conveys the meat slices cut by the cutting section 4 forward, and the storage section 6 stores the conveyed meat slices in a container and carries them out. The control section 7 controls the operating states of the electric motors, cylinders, etc. that drive each part. In addition, from a hygienic point of view, each part is mainly made of stainless steel and covered with a stainless steel cover C. Figure 4 The cover C will be shown disassembled later.

[0072] In addition, if Figures 1 to 3 As shown, a camera ("camera unit" in the claims) CA is arranged above a conveyor belt 96W (described later) on the conveyor section 5 at a predetermined distance. The camera CA is arranged above the center of the left-right width of the conveyor belt 96W and is supported in a suspended state by a horizontal assembly stay CAS with adjustable position. The assembly stay CAS is fixed to the upper end of a support frame CAF that rises obliquely from the machine frame.

[0073] (Supply Department)

[0074] like Figures 4 to 7 As shown, the supply unit 3 comprises a frame 8, which is assembled to form a rectangular shape when viewed from above, and a meat block conveyor 9, which is mounted on the frame 8 and conveys the meat blocks supplied manually forward. Left and right side walls 10, 10 are erected on the left and right sides of the frame 8. Left and right fulcrum shafts 11, 11 are fixed to the meat block conveyor 9 from the rear ends of the left and right side walls 10, 10, respectively, in a position protruding outward. The left and right fulcrum shafts 11, 11 are arranged on the same axis, and their ends are supported on the side of the machine table 2 by left and right bearings 12, 12.

[0075] (Swing mechanism of the supply unit)

[0076] like Figure 5As shown, an electric motor 13 for swinging is installed at the lower part of the frame 8 in the machine 2, and one end of a crank arm 15 is installed on the output shaft 14 of the electric motor 13 for swinging. In addition, a bearing 16 supported on the other end of the crank arm 15 and a bearing 17 supported on the lower part of the frame 8 in front of the fulcrum shafts 11, 11 are fixed to the cylindrical parts (not shown) provided at both ends of the connecting rod 18. Accordingly, the supply part 3 is supported in an inclined posture with the front end lowered as the front end becomes lower towards the conveying terminal side. When the electric motor 13 for swinging is driven, the supply part 3 swings in an inclined up and down direction with the fulcrum shaft 11 as the center, and the front end of the supply part 3 moves back and forth on a circular arc trajectory with the fulcrum shaft 11 as the center.

[0077] (Conveyance path of the supply unit)

[0078] like Figure 5 、 Figure 7 As shown in FIG. 1 , a partition wall 19 is integrally provided between the side walls 10, 10 provided at the left and right ends of the frame 8. Two conveying passages 20, 20 are formed between the two side walls 10, 10 and the partition wall 19. Figure 6 、 Figure 7 As shown, the side walls 10, 10 provided at the left and right ends are connected at the front and rear thereof by gate-shaped or arch-shaped reinforcement frames 21, 21 arranged across the tops of the two conveying passages 20, 20 to ensure the rigidity of the frame 8.

[0079] (Conveyor belt of supply section)

[0080] like Figure 4 、 Figure 5 、 Figure 7 As shown, the block meat conveying device 9 is constructed by installing a wide lower conveyor belt 22 for conveying block meat in each of two conveying passages 20, 20. The lower conveyor belt 22 forms the bottom of the two conveying passages 20, 20, and carries the block meat. The lower conveyor belt 22 is composed of a front roller 23 and a rear roller 24, a roughened lower endless belt 25 wound around these front and rear rollers 23, 24, and a tension roller 26 in the middle portion of the lower endless belt 25 in the front-to-back direction for applying tension to the lower endless belt 25.

[0081] The front roller 23 is rotatably supported by a left-right shaft fixed to the front ends of the left and right frames (not shown). The left and right frames are integrally formed and are configured to be freely attached and detachable relative to the lower portion of the frame 8. The rear roller 24 is fixed to a left-right lower drive shaft 27 axially supported by the rear ends of the left and right frames. The tension roller 26 is arranged in the middle portion of the frame 8 in the front-to-back direction, abutting against the upper surface of the lower winding area of the lower endless belt 25 and applying a rebound force downward. In this way, a tension suitable for conveyance is applied to the lower endless belt 25. Alternatively, a structure in which the height of the tension roller 26 is adjusted and fixed can be used instead of a structure in which the tension roller 26 is fixed. In addition, the width of the front roller 23, the rear roller 24, the tension roller 26, and the lower endless belt 25 is formed to be larger than the inner surface spacing of the left and right side walls 10, 10, so that the left and right ends thereof each intrude into the lower side of the left and right side walls 10, 10.

[0082] Furthermore, sliding plates (not shown) are mounted between the front roller 23 and the tension roller 26, and between the tension roller 26 and the rear roller 24, within the frame 8. These sliding plates slide in contact with and support the lower surface of the upper winding region of the lower endless belt 25. These sliding plates are formed to extend widely between the inner surfaces of the left and right side walls 10, 10. Furthermore, the upper surface of the lower endless belt 25 is positioned directly below the partition wall 19, with a gap therebetween to a degree that the belt does not abut against the upper surface.

[0083] Thus, the upper surface of the lower endless belt 25 forms the bottom of the two conveying paths 20 , 20 described above.

[0084] (Pressure plate of the supply unit)

[0085] like Figures 5 to 7 As shown, the bases of left and right pressing arms 28, 28 are supported by bearings at locations between the side walls 10, 10 and the bearings 12, 12 of the left and right fulcrum shafts 11, 11. Consequently, the left and right pressing arms 28, 28 are positioned outside the left and right side walls 10, 10 so as to swing freely up and down. At the front ends of the left and right pressing arms 28, 28, pressing plates 29, 29 are positioned, facing upward from the front ends of the conveying paths 20, 20. These pressing plates 29, 29 are fastened to mounting stays 30, 30 attached to the front ends of the left and right pressing arms 28, 28 with knob bolts 30N, 30N. Furthermore, these mounting stays 30, 30 extend upward from the front ends (free ends) of the pressing arms 28, 28, then bend upward toward the conveying paths 20, 20.

[0086] The pressing plates 29, 29 are plates having an upper surface portion fixedly secured to the mounting stays 30, 30, an inclined surface portion inclined from the front end of the upper surface portion so as to be lower in front and higher in the rear, and a pressing surface portion extending forward from the front end of the inclined surface portion. Figures 4 to 6As shown, the stays 30T, 30T are erected from the left and right side walls 10, 10 in the frame 8, and the cylinders of the left and right cylinders 30S, 30S are pivotally supported on the stays 30T, 30T so as to be freely rotatable around the left and right axes 30Y, 30Y. Accordingly, the cylinders 30S, 30S are assembled in an up-down posture. Furthermore, the top ends of the pistons of the cylinders 30S, 30S are pivotally supported on the front parts of the left and right pressing arms 28, 28 so as to be freely rotatable around the left and right axes. When the cylinders 30S, 30S are extended, the pressing arms 28 rotate downward, and the pressing plates 29, 29 press toward the upper surface of the lower annular belt 25 below. The pressing plates 29, 29 are used to convey the front end of the block of meat to the front part of the conveying passage 20, 20 by means of the pressing surfaces of the pressing plates 29, 29.

[0087] Specifically, the timing of the extension and contraction of the air cylinders 30S, 30S is controlled to synchronize with the swinging motion of the supply unit 3 about the fulcrum shaft 11. Thus, just before the leading end of the meat block is cut by the cutting unit 4 due to the upward swinging motion of the supply unit 3, the air cylinders 30S, 30S extend, pressing the leading end of the meat block to prevent misalignment during cutting. After cutting, the air cylinders 30S, 30S contract, releasing the pressure on the meat block. The lower endless belt 25 is then driven to deliver the leading end of the meat block until it contacts a receiving plate (described later).

[0088] (Transmission of the supply unit)

[0089] like Figure 5 As shown, a transport electric motor 31 is mounted on the lower surface of the housing 8 in the supply unit 3, facing left and right. An output gear 32 is fixed to the left and right output shaft of the transport electric motor 31. The output gear 32 meshes with an intermediate gear 33 supported on the rear portion of the housing 8, and the intermediate gear 33 meshes with an input gear 34 fixed to the left end portion of the lower drive shaft 27.

[0090] (Cutting-related section in the supply section)

[0091] like Figure 8 、 Figure 9 As shown, a frame member 36 having two openings 35, 35 is fastened and fixed to the front end of the frame body 8 in the supply unit 3 with bolts 37. Figure 9 As shown, the frame member 36 includes mounting portions 38, 38 having bolt holes at both left and right ends, and two rectangular openings 35, 35 are formed between the left and right mounting portions 38, 38. A vertical crosspiece 39 is formed between the two rectangular openings 35, 35.

[0092] Including the front surface of the crosspiece 39, the outer front surfaces of the left and right openings 35, 35 in the frame member 36 are formed with sliding edges 40, 40 that continuously surround the three edges of the left and right side edges and the bottom side edge of each opening 35. Figure 10 As shown in (a), the front surfaces of the sliding edges 40, 40 are formed into an arc shape centered on the fulcrum axis 11 of the supply unit 3 when viewed from the side. Figure 10 (a) and Figure 10 As shown in FIG. 2 , the upper front surface of the sliding edge 40, 40 is formed with an inclined surface 41 that is higher at the rear and lower at the front. When the supply unit 3 is raised and swung, the endless belt blade described later is slidably guided onto the sliding edge 40, 40. In addition, the upper edge of the bottom side edge of each opening 35, 35 is formed into a blade shape.

[0093] In addition, if Figure 9 As shown, a vertically continuous recess 42 is formed only in the widthwise (left-right) center of the sliding edges 40, 40 formed on the front surface of the crosspiece 39. Consequently, sliding edges 40, 40 remain on both the left and right sides of the bottom of the recess 42, and the rear surface of the blade tip edge of the annular blade 49, described later, also slides against these sliding edges 40, 40. Furthermore, the bottom surface of the recess 42 is also formed into an arcuate shape centered on the fulcrum axis 11 of the supply unit 3 when viewed from the side.

[0094] (Connecting plate of the cut part)

[0095] like Figure 4 、 Figure 8 、 Figure 10 (a) Figure 10 (b) Figure 11 As shown, a receiving plate 43 is positioned in front of the swing path of the frame member 36. This receiving plate 43 receives the leading end of the meat block fed from the two openings 35, 35. The entire rear surface of this receiving plate 43, or a portion thereof, is formed to have a curvature that follows an arc centered on the fulcrum axis 11 of the supply unit 3 when viewed from the side. As a result, the front surface of the sliding edges 40, 40 of the frame member 36 and the rear surface of the receiving plate 43 have arcuate shapes with the same or similar curvature when viewed from the side.

[0096] (Cutting blade)

[0097] like Figure 5As shown, the cutting unit 4 includes an electric motor 44 for cutting, a drive wheel 46 mounted on the output shaft 45 of the electric motor 44, a driven wheel 48 mounted on a driven shaft 47, and a steel annular belt blade 49 wrapped around the drive wheel 46 and the driven wheel 48. The electric motor 44 for cutting is fixed to a position away from the two openings 35, 35 to the left. On the other hand, the driven shaft 47 is supported by a bearing 50 to rotate freely in a position away from the two openings 35, 35 to the right. It is supported on the side of the machine 2 in a manner that can be adjusted in the left and right directions by the action of an air cylinder (not shown). In addition, the output shaft 45 and the driven shaft 47 are maintained in parallel with each other in the same tilted position with the front higher and the back lower. As a result, when the air cylinder is activated to reduce the distance between the drive wheel 46 and the driven wheel 48, the annular belt blade 49 can be easily wrapped around and removed from the two wheels 46, 48.

[0098] When the cutting electric motor 44 is activated with the endless belt blade 49 wound around the drive wheel 46 and the driven wheel 48, the drive wheel 46 is driven to rotate counterclockwise, as viewed from the upper and front extension of the axis of the output shaft 45. Furthermore, the driven wheel 48 is also driven counterclockwise by the endless belt blade 49. Consequently, the endless belt blade 49 moves in a circular motion from the driven wheel 48 side toward the drive wheel 46 side (from right to left) within the lower winding area of the endless belt blade 49.

[0099] Therefore, in this lower winding area, the annular blade 49 circulates in a tensioned state, and the lower winding area of the annular blade 49 serves as the area of action for cutting meat chunks. Furthermore, if an overload is applied to the annular blade 49 during this circling motion due to, for example, resistance to cutting meat chunks, the driven shaft 47 is forced toward the output shaft 45. However, the compressed air within the cylinder that regulates the movement of the driven shaft 47 prevents damage due to the overload. Furthermore, one side edge of the annular blade 49 is formed as a sharp blade edge.

[0100] like Figure 10 (a) and Figure 10As shown in (b), a guide member 51 for guiding the annular belt blade 49 is positioned above the receiving plate 43 between the drive wheel 46 and the driven wheel 48. The guide member 51 is a member having a downwardly opening left-right groove formed on the lower edge of a plate body elongated in the left-right direction, and the side edge of the annular belt blade 49, which does not have a blade edge, is freely slidable in the left-right direction into the groove. Furthermore, by fixing the position of the guide member 51, the winding surface of the annular belt blade 49 is maintained in a set, tilted position with the front higher and the rear lower, forming a spacer T between the blade edge of the annular belt blade 49 and the upper end of the receiving plate 43. Furthermore, because the guide member 51 slidingly supports the inner and outer surfaces of the annular belt blade 49, the tilted position during circular movement is stable.

[0101] (Support of Cutting Portion, First Supporting Member, Third Supporting Member)

[0102] like Figure 4 As shown, two flat rails 52, 52 are fixed to the left and right sides of the upper portion of the machine table 2, spaced apart in the left and right directions. The lower portion of a third support member 53, which is rectangular in plan view, is assembled, and two rollers 54 are supported on each of the left and right sides of its front portion in a balance-type swinging manner. Furthermore, one roller 54 is axially supported on each of the left and right sides of the rear portion of the lower portion of the third support member 53.

[0103] When the third support member 53 is mounted on the machine table 2, a total of six rollers 54 are mounted on the upper surfaces of the left and right rails 52, 52, and the third support member 53 is supported on the machine table 2 so as to be freely movable in the forward and backward directions. A first support member 55, which is formed into a rectangular shape when viewed from above, is assembled above the third support member 53. The upper ends of four upper link arms 56 are pivotally connected to the first support member 55 at four locations, front, back, left, and right, so as to be freely rotatable about upper shafts 57 extending in the left and right directions.

[0104] The lower ends of the four upper link arms 56 are fixed to the left and right ends of lower shafts 58, 58, respectively. The lower shafts 58, 58 are supported by bearings in the front-to-back center and rear portion of the third support member 53, allowing the left and right upper link arms 56, 56 to rotate integrally about the lower shafts 58, 58. Furthermore, the upper ends of the four upper link arms 56 are connected and fixed to the upper ends of a lower link arm 59. This creates an L-shape between the lower link arms 59 and 56 when viewed from the left. Furthermore, left-to-right shafts 59P, 59P provided at the lower ends of the front and rear lower link arms 59, 59, and shafts 53P, 53P provided at the front and rear portions of the third support member 53 are connected by front and rear tension springs 60, 60, respectively. The resilient force of these tension springs 60, 60 in the contracting direction biases the first support member 55 in the upward direction.

[0105] Furthermore, at the base of the third support member 53, which pivotally supports the electric motor 61 about its horizontal axis, a female threaded member 64 is threadedly engaged with the threaded shaft 63, which is rotationally driven by the electric motor 61. The tip of an intermediate member 64a, which moves along with the female threaded member 64, is pivotally connected, rotatably, about a horizontal axis 65, to a stay 55b on the horizontal side of a frame 55a provided in the front-to-back middle portion of the first support member 55. When the threaded shaft 63 is rotated by the electric motor 61, the female threaded member 64, which is threadedly engaged with it, moves in the axial direction of the threaded shaft 63. The intermediate member 64a pushes and pulls the frame 55a of the first support member 55, causing the first support member 55 to move relative to the third support member 53. The movement trajectory of the first support member 55 is determined by the swing trajectory of the upper ends of the front and rear upper link arms 56.

[0106] Specifically, all four upper link arms 56 are formed to have the same length, and the bearing position of the front lower shaft 58 relative to the third support member 53 is set higher than the bearing position of the rear lower shaft 58 relative to the third support member 53. Furthermore, the front left and right upper link arms 56, 56 are set to have a more gradual inclination (higher in front, lower in back) than the rear left and right upper link arms 56, 56. Consequently, as the first support member 55 approaches the third support member 53 (the lower it descends), the front side of the first support member 55 descends further than the rear side, and the first support member 55 tilts downward, with the front side lowered and the rear side higher.

[0107] However, at the rear of the first support member 55, the lower end of the rear support platform 67 having left and right side plates 66, 66 is fixed by bolts. In addition, the lower portions of the left and right side plates 66, 66 are connected and reinforced by round rod-shaped frames 68, 68 in the left and right directions. Figure 11 As shown, the upper extensions of the left and right side panels 66 and 66 are connected by a left-right frame 69. Figure 4 As shown, a hypotenuse portion with a higher front and a lower rear is formed on the upper rear side of the left and right side panels 66, 66, and the stays 70, 70 protruding forward from the left and right end portions of the front surface of the above-mentioned receiving plate 43 are fastened and fixed with nuts 71 on the hypotenuse portion.

[0108] Thus, the receiving plate 43 is fixed to a fixed position on the first supporting member 55. Furthermore, when the third supporting member 53 is moved forward relative to the machine table 2, the receiving plate 43 moves away from the opening 35, forming a maintenance space between the receiving plate 43 and the opening 35. This space allows maintenance of the cutting unit 4 and the conveying unit 5 described later.

[0109] (Thickness adjustment of cut meat slices)

[0110] When the electric motor 61 is driven, the first support member 55 and the receiving plate 43 integrally supported by it move in a direction constrained by the swinging trajectory of the upper link arms 56, 56. Specifically, to increase the thickness of the cut meat slices, the first support member 55 moves forward, but at this time, it moves forward and downward while tilting, with the front lower and the rear higher. At this time, the rear surface of the receiving plate 43 supported by the first support member 55 changes its posture, tilting forward.

[0111] As a result, even though the distance between the front surfaces of the sliding edges 40, 40 and the rear surface of the receiving plate 43 varies, the rear surface of the receiving plate 43 remains positioned on an arc (a virtual arc) centered on the fulcrum axis 11, which serves as the swinging center of the sliding edges 40, 40, when viewed from the side. In other words, the distance between the front surfaces of the sliding edges 40, 40 and the rear surface of the receiving plate 43 is adjusted while maintaining the distance from the fulcrum axis 11 to the upper end of the rear surface of the receiving plate 43 and the distance from the fulcrum axis to the lower end of the rear surface of the receiving plate 43 equal. This allows the thickness of the cut meat slice to be adjusted to be substantially uniform across the entire surface.

[0112] Furthermore, the curvature of the front surfaces of the sliding edges 40, 40 and the curvature of the rear surface of the receiving plate 43, when viewed from the side, are made approximately equal. Therefore, strictly speaking, when the thickness adjustment described above is performed, the distances from the fulcrum axis 11 to the upper and lower ends of the rear surface of the receiving plate 43 and the distance from the fulcrum axis 11 to the vertical center of the rear surface of the receiving plate 43 will differ slightly. However, this slight difference does not affect the commercial value of the cut meat slices. Furthermore, this structure in which the receiving plate 43 tilts forward while moving forward and downward is suitable for use in a structure such as the slicer in this embodiment, in which block meat is cut in the area below the circular arc path of the sliding edges 40, 40 centered on the fulcrum axis 11.

[0113] (Delivery rotating body of cutting section)

[0114] like Figure 4 、 Figure 5 、 Figure 11 As shown, left and right delivery rotators 72, 72, which rotate independently about the same axis, are installed between the upper portions of the left and right side plates 66, 66. These left and right delivery rotators 72, 72 have a plurality of annular plates 74 arranged at intervals on the outer periphery of a main body 73. These annular plates 74 are formed with multiple sharp protrusions, and the main bodies 73, 73 are rotatably supported on support shafts 75 that extend across the left and right side plates 66, 66. Furthermore, the protrusions formed on the peripheral edges of these annular plates 74 have tips sharp enough to pierce cut pieces of meat.

[0115] In addition, if Figure 5As shown, delivery electric motors 76, 76 are mounted on the upper outer surfaces of the left and right side panels 66, 66. Output shafts 77, 77 driven by the delivery electric motors 76, 76 protrude toward the inner sides of the side panels 66, 66 through holes formed in the left and right side panels 66, 66. Output gears 78, 78 are fixed to the protruding ends of the output shafts 77, 77, and input gears 79, 79 are fixed to the outer ends of the left and right main bodies 73, 73, so that the output gears 78, 78 and the input gears 79, 79 mesh with each other.

[0116] Furthermore, a portion of the peripheral edge of the annular plate 74 is inserted into the vertical slit formed on the upper portion of the receiving plate 43, so that the protrusion formed on the peripheral edge penetrates the cut and cut meat slices and delivers them to the delivery rotating bodies 72, 72. By setting the upward movement speed of the openings 35, 35 and the outer peripheral speed of the annular plates 74, 74 of the delivery rotating bodies 72, 72 in the same direction and at the same speed, the cut meat slices can be delivered and transported smoothly.

[0117] (Folding device)

[0118] like Figure 5 、 Figure 11 、 Figure 12 As shown, left and right rod-shaped bodies 81, 81 are disposed below the front side of the support shaft 75 and are reciprocally rotated by left and right swing electric motors 80, 80. Multiple thin rods 82, 82 are implanted in the left and right rod-shaped bodies 81, 81 at predetermined intervals along the longitudinal direction. Before the support shaft 75 begins to rotate, these thin rods 82, 82 penetrate between the adjacent annular plates 74, 74 and engage with the upper circumferential surfaces of the annular plates 74, 74, thereby remaining in a standby position where they do not interfere with the conveyed meat slices.

[0119] In addition, the left and right swing electric motors 80, 80 and the left and right rod-shaped bodies 81, 81 are made into units. Figure 11 、 Figure 12 As shown, the left and right units 83, 83 are supported so as to be slidable in their longitudinal directions by two round rod-shaped guide rails 83L, 83L. The two round rod-shaped guide rails 83L, 83L are tilted and parallel to the outer sides of the left and right side plates 66, 66, with the front higher and the rear lower. Furthermore, one end of a crank arm 85, 85 is mounted on the output shaft of a gear box 84G, 84G. The gear box 84G, 84G is powered by left and right ejection electric motors 84, 84 mounted on the outer sides of the left and right side plates 66, 66. The other end of the crank arm 85, 85 is pivotally connected to the two ends of a turnbuckle-type lever 86, 86 and the units 83, 83.

[0120] Thus, the plurality of thin rods 82, 82 attached to the left and right rod-shaped bodies 81, 81 are caused to reciprocate in a tilted posture, reversing in the forward and backward directions, by the operation of the left and right swing electric motors 80, 80. Furthermore, the plurality of thin rods 82, 82 are caused to slide back and forth in a tilted direction, with the front higher and the rear lower, while being guided by the guide rails 83L, 83L for each unit, by the operation of the left and right withdrawal electric motors 84, 84.

[0121] (Pressing device)

[0122] like Figure 5 、 Figure 11 As shown, the cylinder portion of the air cylinder 87 is mounted in an oblique vertical direction at the center of the left-right frame 69 connecting the upper portions of the left and right side panels 66, 66. Furthermore, the left-right center portion of the pressing member 88 extending in the left-right direction is mounted at the top of the piston of the air cylinder 87. Four linear pressing members 89 are mounted to the pressing member 88 in such a manner that one end is fixed to the pressing member 88 and the other end is freely slidably inserted into a hole formed in the pressing member 88. The linear pressing members 89 are formed by bending an elastic wire into a mountain shape. In this state, every two linear pressing members 89 are interlaced with each other, and the bent portions of the four linear pressing members 89 are located at the lower ends.

[0123] The structure is such that when the pressing member 88 moves downward by extending the air cylinder 87, the upper surface of the folded meat slices m is pressed by the lower edge of the pressing member. Then, when the pressing member 88 moves upward by contracting the air cylinder 87, the curved portions of the four linear pressing members 89 simultaneously press the two rows of folded meat slices m at two points.

[0124] (Folding of meat slices and formation of aggregates)

[0125] When the swinging electric motors 80, 80 are activated, causing the plurality of thin rods 82 to swing forward from their standby positions, the meat slice m, which has been carried on the upper circumferential surface of the annular plate 74 of the delivery rotating body 72, is peeled from the circumferential surface of the annular plate 74 at the top ends of the thin rods 82. At this time, the top ends of the thin rods 82 arranged in the left-right direction abut the front-to-back center portion of the lower surface of the meat slice m, pressing the meat slice m in the front-to-back center portion and further swinging it forward. Consequently, the front and rear ends of the meat slice m droop downward due to their own weight, bending the meat slice m at the position where the top ends of the thin rods 82 abut, becoming folded in half, and being placed on the transport action portion on the upstream (rear) side of the transport direction, which will be described later.

[0126] At this point, the air cylinder 87 extends, causing the pressing member 88 to move downward, pressing the folded meat slice m against the lower edge of the pressing member 88. While in this pressed state, the ejection electric motors 84, 84 operate, causing the left and right rods 81, 81, along with the left and right swinging electric motors 80, 80, to slide downward and rearward, instantly extracting the multiple thin rods 82 trapped by the folded meat slice m. The curved portion of the linear pressing member 89 then presses the upper surface of the folded meat slice m downward, separating it from the others. Simultaneously, the pressing member 88 retreats upward.

[0127] By repeatedly folding the meat slice m, Figure 13 As shown, a plurality of folded meat slices m (six meat slices m in this embodiment) are sequentially placed onto the conveying start end portion of the endless belt 96 in a conveying operation with portions thereof vertically overlapping, thereby forming an aggregate M of the meat slices m. Furthermore, while maintaining control of intermittently increasing and decreasing the conveying speed of the endless belt 96, or synchronizing the rotational speed of the delivery rotator 72 with the swinging timing of the thin rod 82, a predetermined interval is formed between one aggregate M and the next by intermittently changing the time interval for swinging the thin rod 82, etc.

[0128] (Transportation Department)

[0129] like Figure 4 、 Figure 5 、 Figure 11 、 Figure 14 、 Figure 15 As shown, the conveying section 5 is composed of an endless belt 96 wound around a driven roller 90 at the rear end, a rear driven roller group 91, a driving roller 92, two driven rollers 93, 93 arranged close to it in front and behind, an upper driven roller 92U arranged above the driving roller 92, and a driven roller group forming a reciprocating conveyor belt 95 described later. In addition, a sliding support plate (not shown) is provided between each roller in the upper winding area of the endless belt 96, and the sliding support plate slidingly supports the inner peripheral surface of the endless belt 96. Thus, a series of conveying action areas are formed from the conveying starting point to the conveying terminal. This series of conveying action areas is formed by the conveying action section 5F on the upstream side (rear side) of the conveying direction and the conveying action section 5R on the downstream side (front side) of the conveying direction.

[0130] (Conveying action part on the upstream side in the conveying direction)

[0131] like Figure 4As shown, an intermediate support platform 98 composed of left and right asymmetrically shaped plates 97, 97 is mounted on the middle portion in the front-to-back direction of the first support member 55. Specifically, a protruding member having a bearing hole in the front-to-back direction is fixed to the lower end portions of the left and right plates 97, 97, and the front and rear ends of a round rod-shaped sliding guide rod are fixed to the left and right side surfaces of the first support member 55 so that the protruding member can be slidably engaged with the sliding guide rod in the front-to-back direction (the protruding member and the sliding guide rod are omitted from the figure).

[0132] A locking device (not shown) is also provided to secure and unlock the sliding position of the protruding member relative to the slide guide rod. When the intermediate support platform 98, formed by the left and right plates 97, 97, is slid to the rear end of its sliding range and the locking device is locked in this position, the wound circumference of the endless belt 96 is expanded, tightening the endless belt 96 and enabling transport. On the other hand, when the locking device is unlocked and the intermediate support platform 98 is slid forward, the wound circumference of the endless belt 96 is reduced, loosening the endless belt 96 and enabling attachment and detachment.

[0133] However, the bases of the left and right support stays 101, 101 are fixed to the front of the left and right plates 97, 97 in the middle support platform 98, and the ends of the left and right support stays 101, 101 extending rearward are supported by bearings on the left and right ends of a support shaft 102 that is elongated in the left and right directions so as to be freely rotatable up and down. Figure 4 、 Figure 5 As shown, the rear end driven roller 90 having a large width in the left-right direction is rotatably supported on the support shaft 102. Thus, the rear end driven roller 90 is located below the front side of the partition T in the cutting section 4.

[0134] Furthermore, the tops of swing arms 103, 103, formed from upper and lower branches, are rotatably supported at the left and right ends of the support shaft 102, respectively. Two rear upper driven rollers 91UF and 91UR are rotatably supported between the left and right upper sides of these swing arms 103, 103. Two rear lower driven rollers 91DF and 91DR are rotatably supported between the left and right lower branches of these swing arms 103, 103. This forms the aforementioned rear driven roller group 91, which is positioned forward of the rear end driven roller 90. Furthermore, an actuating arm 104 is integrally provided and suspended from the top of the right swing arm 103.

[0135] Meanwhile, a gearbox 106 driven by a vertical motion electric motor 105 is fixed to the right side of the plate 97 on the right side of the intermediate support platform 98. One end of a crank arm 108 is mounted on the output shaft 107 of the gearbox 106. Furthermore, the top end (lower end) of the operating arm 104 and the other end of the crank arm 108 are pivotally connected via a turnbuckle-type linkage rod 109. With this structure, when the vertical motion electric motor 105 is driven in the forward direction, the crank arm 108 and the operating arm 104 rotate in tandem, causing the left and right swing arms 103, 103 to rotate upward about the axis of the support shaft 102. Consequently, the two rear upper driven rollers 91UF, 91UR rise, pressing up the inner surface of the upper winding zone of the endless belt 96. This creates a steeply inclined surface, with the front higher and the rear lower, at the transport starting end (rear end) of the transport action section 5F on the upstream side of the transport action zone in the transport direction.

[0136] Then, when the vertical motion electric motor 105 is driven in the reverse direction, the left and right swing arms 103, 103 rotate downward about the axis of the support shaft 102, and the two rear upper driven rollers 91UF, 91UR descend and return to their original positions. Consequently, the front portion of the endless belt 96 descends to its original position, and the transport start end of the transport action portion 5F returns to the gently inclined surface. At this time, the lowered rear lower driven rollers 91DF, 91DR push down the inner surface of the lower winding area of the endless belt 96, preventing the endless belt 96 from slackening.

[0137] The drive roller 92 is positioned between the left and right plates 97, 97, in the intermediate support platform 98. The left and right ends of its rotating shaft 110 are supported by bearings 111, 111, on the left and right plates 97, 97. A gearbox 113, powered by a transport drive electric motor 112, is secured to the right side of the right plate 97. The output shaft of the gearbox 113 is connected to the rotating shaft of the drive roller 92. Two driven rollers 93, 93, positioned proximately to the front and rear of the drive roller 92, are positioned higher than the drive roller 92 and supported by bearings 114, 114, between the left and right plates 97, 97.

[0138] Furthermore, the endless belt 96 is wound around the upper circumferences of the two driven rollers 93, 93 and further wound around the lower circumference of the driving roller 92 disposed therebetween, thereby increasing the circumference of the endless belt 96 wound around the lower circumference of the driving roller 92. This reduces slippage of the endless belt 96 relative to the driving roller 92.

[0139] The upper driven roller 92U is rotatably supported by a shaft (not shown) extending in the left and right directions and mounted between the upper portions of the left and right plates 97 in the intermediate support 98, and is disposed above the drive roller 92. However, the portion from the rear driven roller 90 to the upper driven roller 92U forms the transport action portion 5F on the upstream side in the transport direction.

[0140] (Second supporting member)

[0141] like Figure 4 As shown, a front support platform 116 composed of left and right plates 115, 115 is fixed to the rear end of the third support member 53. Specifically, the lower ends of the left and right plates 115, 115 are fastened to the rear end of the third support member 53 with bolts 117, 117, and the upper ends of the left and right plates 115, 115 are extended to the same height as the upper ends of the left and right plates 97, 97 in the intermediate support platform 98. Furthermore, the front support platform 116 is spaced apart from the first support member 55 in the front-to-back direction and has no direct connection to the first support member 55 or the intermediate support platform 98.

[0142] (Conveying action portion on the downstream side in the conveying direction)

[0143] However, if Figure 4 、 Figure 14 、 Figure 15 As shown, left and right extension plates 118, 118 having a narrow width in the vertical direction are integrally extended from the upper portion of the front support platform 116 (left and right plates 115, 115) toward the rear. Furthermore, on the inner side surfaces of the left and right extension plates 118, 118, round bar-shaped guide rails 119, 119 extending in the front-back direction are arranged at intervals therefrom. The front and rear ends of the left and right guide rails 119, 119 are attached to the inner side surfaces of the extension plates 118, 118 via stays 120, 120.

[0144] Furthermore, a movable frame 124 is assembled by the left and right movable plates 121, 121 in the front-to-back direction, and a front connecting rod 122 and a rear connecting rod 123 connecting the front and rear ends of the left and right movable plates 121, 121. The front upper edges of the left and right movable plates 121, 121 in the movable frame 124 form an inclined edge portion that is tilted lower in the front and higher in the rear. Furthermore, the rear ends of the left and right oblique plates 125, 125 in the front-to-back direction that are tilted along the inclined edge portion are rotatably supported on the left and right ends of a rear support shaft 126 that is mounted between the left and right movable plates 121, 121. A driven roller 127, which is a wide curved portion in the left-to-right direction, is rotatably engaged with the rear support shaft 126.

[0145] In addition, arc-shaped elongated holes 128, 128 are formed in the front ends of the left and right movable plates 121, 121 in the vertical direction. Bolts 130, 130 are inserted from the outside through these elongated holes 128, 128. The top ends of these bolts 130, 130 are inserted into weld nuts 129 provided on the left and right inclined plates 125, 125, and the movable plate 121 and the inclined plate 125 are tightened together to fix them. By loosening these bolts 130, 130, the tilt angle of the left and right inclined plates 125, 125 can be adjusted.

[0146] Furthermore, left and right support arms 131, 131 are mounted on the outer sides of the front ends of the left and right oblique plates 125, 125. The front ends of the left and right support arms 131, 131 are connected by a connecting shaft 132. Furthermore, a driven roller 133 with a wide width in the left-right direction is rotatably supported on the connecting shaft 132. Furthermore, the rear lower portions of the left and right movable plates 121, 121 are extended forward and downward, and a movable roller 150 with a wide width in the left-right direction is rotatably supported on a shaft 149 spanning the left and right extended ends. The movable roller 150 moves along with the movable frame 124, absorbing changes in the circumference of the endless belt 96 caused by the forward and backward movement of the driven roller 133 at the front end.

[0147] However, protruding members 134, 134 are mounted at two locations, front and rear, on the outer side surfaces of the left and right movable plates 121, 121. These protruding members 134, 134 are engaged with the left and right guide rails 119, 119, and are freely slidable in the front-to-back direction. Furthermore, a gear box 136, which is powered by a telescopic electric motor 135, is fixed to the right side of the right plate 115 in the front support 116. The lower end of a swing arm 138, which is positioned in the vertical direction, is fixed to the protruding end of the output shaft 137 of the gear box 136, which protrudes toward the inside of the right plate 115. The upper end of the swing arm 138 and the protruding end of the front connecting rod 122, which protrudes outward from the movable plate 121, are pivotally connected to the front and rear ends of a turnbuckle-type connecting rod 139, 139.

[0148] As described above, when the telescopic electric motor 135 is driven, the bent portion driven roller 127 and the front end driven roller 133 supported on the movable frame 124 side move in an integrated manner in the front-to-back direction, causing the conveying terminal portion (front end) of the endless belt 96 to change position in the front-to-back direction. The portion of the endless belt 96 from the bent portion driven roller 127 to the front end driven roller 133 is referred to as the reciprocating conveyor belt 95. Furthermore, the series of conveying devices forming the conveying action area of the endless belt 96 is referred to as the conveyor belt 96W.

[0149] In addition, if Figure 14As shown by the two-dot chain line, the front end driven roller 133 is arranged lower than the moving roller 150, so that the lower winding area DA of the reciprocating conveyor belt 95 is tilted so that the front is lower and the rear is higher. This prevents the lower winding area DA of the endless belt 96 from hanging down and interfering with the storage section 6 during the storage operation in the storage section 6 described later. Figure 4 、 Figure 14 As shown, the bases (rear ends) of tension arms 140, 140 are pivotally supported on the upper rear sides of the left and right plates 115 in the front support 116 so as to be freely rotatable up and down around rotation shafts 141, 141.

[0150] At the free ends (front ends) of these tension arms 140, 140, wide tension rollers 142, 142 are rotatably supported. Although not shown, a locking device is provided to secure these tension arms 140, 140 in a horizontally extended forward position. When this locking device is unlocked, the tension arms 140, 140 rotate downward. Consequently, when the lock is unlocked and the tension arms 140, 140 rotate downward, the circumference of the endless belt 96, including the tension rollers 142, 142, is shortened, causing the endless belt 96 to slacken.

[0151] Although not shown in the figure, the left side plate 66 of the rear support platform 67, the left plate body 97 of the intermediate support platform 98, and the left plate body 115 of the front support platform 116 are divided into an upper plate and a lower plate. The endless belt 96 can be drawn out to the left by removing the connecting plate body connecting the upper and lower plates. This allows the endless belt 96 to be attached and detached.

[0152] In addition, an inner guide roller 143 for guiding the inner circumference of the endless belt 96 and an outer guide roller 144 for guiding the outer circumference of the endless belt 96 are provided at the middle position in the vertical direction of the rear portion of the front support platform 116. Furthermore, support stays 145, 145 are fastened with bolts 146, 146 at the left and right sides of the front end portion of the first support member 55, and a lower driven roller 148 having a large width in the left and right directions is supported by bearings on a shaft 147 spanning between the left and right support stays 145, 145.

[0153] As described above, when adjusting the thickness of the cut meat slices, the closer the first support member 55 approaches the third support member 53 (the more it descends), the more the front side of the first support member 55 descends compared to the rear side, tilting the first support member 55 downward, with the front side lower and the rear side higher. At this time, the wound circumference of the endless belt 96 decreases, causing the endless belt 96 to slacken. However, the lower driven roller 148, provided at the front end of the first support member 55, moves forward and downward, absorbing the change in the circumference of the endless belt 96. However, the reciprocating conveyor belt 95 described above primarily forms the conveying portion 5R on the downstream side of the conveying direction of the conveying section 5.

[0154] Furthermore, a series of transport action zones are formed by the endless belt 96, from the transport action portion 5F on the upstream side in the transport direction to the transport action portion 5R on the downstream side in the transport direction. Furthermore, a sliding plate (not shown) is provided between the rollers, and the sliding plate supports the lower surface of the upper winding zone of the endless belt 96 from below.

[0155] (Storage section)

[0156] Will Figures 16 to 22 The article moving device 200 shown in (b) has a receiving surface 201 positioned below the forward and backward movement range of the transport terminal portion of the transport action unit 5R (the transport terminal portion of the reciprocating conveyor 95) on the downstream side of the transport direction. This article moving device 200 is composed of a right-side moving unit 200R and a left-side moving unit 200L. These upper portions are provided with left and right receiving plates 202, 202, which are formed with the receiving surfaces 201, 201 and are arranged in a substantially horizontal direction. The shape, support structure, and drive structure of these left and right receiving plates 202, 202 are configured to be substantially bilaterally symmetrical between the left and right moving units 200R and 200L. Therefore, unless otherwise specified, the following description applies to both the left and right moving units 200R and 200L with bilateral symmetry.

[0157] (Supporting structure of storage unit)

[0158] However, first, the lower ends of the left and right support stays 204, 204, which are formed into a plate shape, are fastened to the upper portion of the machine table 203 with bolts 205, 205, and the left and right fulcrum shafts 206 are inserted so as to be rotatable about their axis through the left and right holes provided in the upper ends of the left and right support stays 204, 204. Furthermore, the fulcrum shaft cylinder 207 is fitted to the outer periphery of the fulcrum shaft 206 so as to be rotatable about its axis and slidable in the axial direction.

[0159] Furthermore, the lower ends of plate-shaped upper support stays 208 disposed on one side (outer side) of the fulcrum shaft 206 are fastened with bolts 209 to the left and right ends (outer ends) that protrude outward from the left and right outer support stays 204. Furthermore, the lower ends of substantially rectangular inner support plates 210 disposed on the other side (inner side) of the fulcrum shaft 206 are fastened with bolts 211 to the left and right other ends (inner ends) that protrude inward from the left and right inner support stays 204.

[0160] (Assembly of the storage unit)

[0161] like Figures 16 to 22 As shown in FIG. 2( b ), a generally rectangular outer support plate 212 is disposed at intervals outside the upper support stays 208 disposed on the left and right (outside) sides. The outer support plate 212 is assembled with the inner support plate 210 in the following manner. Specifically, the ends of a first connecting rod 213, shaped like a round rod, are positioned on the inner side surface of the vertically intermediate portion of the front portion of the inner support plate 210 and the inner side surface of the lower portion of the front portion of the outer support plate 212, and secured thereto with bolts 214, 214. Furthermore, the left-right intermediate portion of the first connecting rod 213 is inserted and secured through a hole formed in the upper portion of the left and right outer upper support stays 208. Furthermore, the ends of a lower connecting rod 215, shaped like a round rod, are positioned on the inner side surfaces of the upper portions of the left and right outer upper support stays 208 and the inner side surfaces of the vertically intermediate portions of the front portions of the left and right inner support plates 210, and secured thereto with bolts 216, 216.

[0162] Furthermore, the ends of a second connecting rod 217, which is a round rod, are positioned on the upper inner side surface of the rear portion of the inner support plate 210 and the lower inner side surface of the rear portion of the outer support plate 212, and are fastened with bolts 218, 218. Furthermore, the ends of a third connecting rod 219, which is a round rod, are positioned on the upper inner side surface of the rear portion of the inner support plate 210 and the upper inner side surface of the rear portion of the outer support plate 212, and are fastened with bolts 220, 220. Thus, the third connecting rod 219 is positioned directly above the second connecting rod 217.

[0163] Furthermore, both ends of a round rod-shaped fourth connecting rod 221 are positioned on the inner side surface of the upper portion of the rear end portion of the inner support plate 210 and on the inner side surfaces of the vertically intermediate portions of the rear ends of the left and right outer support plates 212, and are fastened with bolts 222, 222. Furthermore, the base of a horizontal sliding guide rod SS1 is positioned on the left side surface of the upper end portion of the front-back intermediate portion of the inner support plate 210 included in the right movable unit 200R, and is fastened with bolts SS2.

[0164] Meanwhile, the base of a sliding guide cylinder SS3, which has a left-right hole, is positioned and fixed to the left side of the upper end portion of the middle portion in the front-to-back direction of the inner support plate 210 of the left movable unit 200L. Furthermore, the tip of the sliding guide rod SS1 is slidably inserted into the hole of the sliding guide cylinder SS3. This forms a position restriction portion PK, which allows the left and right movable units 200L and 200R to independently move toward the axis of the fulcrum shaft 206 while restricting their independent vertical swinging about the fulcrum shaft 206.

[0165] Furthermore, the first connecting rod 213, the second connecting rod 217, the third connecting rod 219, the fourth connecting rod 221, and the slide guide rod SS1 are arranged horizontally and parallel to each other. Furthermore, the left and right end front surfaces of the left and right rear connecting plate 223, which is narrow in the vertical direction, are brought into contact with the upper rear end surface of the outer support plate 212 and the upper rear end surface of the inner support plate 210, and are fastened with bolts 224, 224.

[0166] (Interval adjustment mechanism of article moving device)

[0167] like Figures 16 to 22 As shown in FIG. 2( b ), the base of a double-acting first air cylinder 225 for adjusting the gap is mounted on the inner surface of the lower front portion of the inner support plate 210. Furthermore, the base of a stay 226 is fixed to the middle portion of the fulcrum shaft cylinder 207 in the left-right direction. This allows a box-shaped retainer 227 to be fixed to the upper inner surface of the vertically erected stay 226.

[0168] The retainer 227 is hollow and has an opening on the side opposite the portion fixed to the stay 226. An adjustment bolt 228, whose head is larger than the opening, is positioned within the retainer 227, with a gap between it and the inner wall of the retainer 227 and allowing for flexible positioning. The external thread of the adjustment bolt 228 protrudes inward from the opening. The tip of the external thread is threadedly engaged with the internal thread formed at the tip of the piston 229 of the first cylinder 225, and secured with a lock nut 230.

[0169] Thus, even if an error occurs between the parallel orientation of the piston 229's extension and contraction direction and the direction in which the fulcrum shaft 206 slides relative to the fulcrum shaft cylinder 207, the error is absorbed by changing the orientation of the head of the adjustment bolt 228 relative to the holder 227, allowing the fulcrum shaft 206 to slide smoothly. Furthermore, by causing both the left and right first air cylinders 225, 225 to extend and contract, the right-side moving unit 200R and the left-side moving unit 200L move in opposite directions to each other.

[0170] At this time, the sliding guide rod SS1 is slidably engaged with the sliding guide cylinder SS3, thereby maintaining the relative posture of the right mobile unit 200R and the left mobile unit 200L. Furthermore, as will be described later, when the article moving device 200 is raised and swung about the axis of the fulcrum shaft 206, the sliding guide rod SS1 is slidably engaged with the sliding guide cylinder SS3, thereby causing the right mobile unit 200R and the left mobile unit 200L to rise and swung integrally.

[0171] (Connector plate)

[0172] like Figures 16 to 22 As shown in (b), the receiving plate 202 is formed from a rectangular stainless steel plate. The front edge is bent vertically upward, the rear edge is bent into an inclined position with the front higher and the rear lower, the left and right outer edges are bent into an inclined position with the outer edges lowered, and the left and right inner edges are rounded and rolled downward. Alternatively, a round bar in the front-to-back direction may be welded to the left and right inner ends. Alternatively, a structure may be adopted in which a large, small-diameter roller is attached to the left and right inner ends, which is freely rotatable about the axis in the front-to-back direction.

[0173] Furthermore, notches 202K, 202K are formed at the two front corners of the receiving plate 202 to prevent interference with the inner support plate 210 and the outer support plate 212. Furthermore, notches 202L, 202L are formed at the two rear corners of the receiving plate 202 for operating the first indexing pin 270, described later. A horizontal receiving surface 201 is formed on the upper side of the middle portion of the receiving plate 202 in the front-to-back direction.

[0174] (Sliding mechanism of the receiving plate)

[0175] However, if Figures 16 to 22 As shown in FIG. 2 (b), sliding members 231, 231, arranged on the left and right outer sides and the left and right inner sides, are slidably engaged with the third connecting rod 219 at predetermined intervals in the left-right direction. Each sliding member 231, 231 has a through-hole through which the third connecting rod 219 is inserted. Ball-type sliding members are provided in these through-holes to reduce sliding resistance relative to the third connecting rod 219, and grease is enclosed in these sliding members. Furthermore, a vertically upward bend formed at the front end of the receiving plate 202 is brought into contact with the rear side surfaces of the sliding members 231, 231 and secured with bolts 232, 232.

[0176] (Linkage unit based on synchronous belt)

[0177] A first timing pulley 233 is rotatably supported about a longitudinal axis 234 at the bottom of the outer sliding member 231. Meanwhile, a second timing pulley 235 is rotatably supported about a longitudinal axis 236 at the bottom of the inner sliding member 231. The effective diameters of the first and second timing pulleys 233 and 235 are set to be equal.

[0178] Then, a timing belt 237 is wound around the first timing pulley 233 and the second timing pulley 235. A portion of the upper winding area of the timing belt 237 is fixed to the longitudinal center of the third connecting rod 219 by a fixing member 238. The fixing member 238 secures its upper portion to the third connecting rod 219 so that its position can be adjusted in the longitudinal direction, while its lower portion securely holds a portion of the timing belt 237. In other words, the fixing member 238 holds a portion of the upper winding area of the timing belt 237 at a fixed point.

[0179] The outer and inner sliding members 231 and 232 are connected by bolts 240, 240 to the left and right ends of a support plate 239 spaced apart in front of these members. Furthermore, the tips of these bolts 240, 240 may also be formed with shafts that support the first and second timing pulleys 233, 235. The first timing pulley 233, second timing pulley 235, timing belt 237, fixing member 238, first slider 246, and traction plate 250 form an interlocking unit RA that moves in conjunction with the movement of the transfer belt 295 and the receiving plate 202.

[0180] (Sliding drive)

[0181] The base of a second double-acting air cylinder 241 for sliding is pivotally mounted by a pin 243 in the front-rear direction to front and rear stays 242, 242 mounted on the upper inner surface of the middle portion in the front-rear direction of the inner support plate 210. Furthermore, the top end of the piston 244 of the second air cylinder 241 is connected by a bolt 245 to the lower end of a bent portion bent downward from the outer end of the support plate 239.

[0182] (Air pressure circuit)

[0183] The second cylinders 241 and 241 on the left and right sides each have Figure 39 The air pressure circuit 320 is shown. The air pressure circuit 320 is provided with an electromagnetic switching valve 323, which switches the supply and discharge direction of air sent from an air pressure pump (not shown) to cause the piston 244 of the second air cylinder 241 to extend and retract.

[0184] The three ports on one side of the solenoid switching valve 323 switchably connect an inlet 321 connected to the upstream air pump and two outlets 322. Furthermore, the two ports on the other side of the solenoid switching valve 323 switchably connect a first flow path 324 connected to the extension port of the second cylinder 241 and a second flow path 326 connected to a damping / speed adjustment circuit 325. The damping / speed adjustment circuit 325 includes a bidirectionally switchable pilot check valve 327, a check valve 328, a manually operated first variable throttle valve 329, an air tank 330, a two-position switching valve 331, a first atmospheric release device 332 for damping, a manually operated second variable throttle valve 333 for adjusting the amount of air sent to the first atmospheric release device 332, a second atmospheric release device 334 for speed adjustment, and a manually operated third variable throttle valve 335 for adjusting the amount of air sent to the second atmospheric release device 334.

[0185] Furthermore, the third flow path 336, which branches from the pilot check valve 327, is connected to the port on the shortening side of the second cylinder 241. One end of the fifth flow path 338 is connected to the midway portion of the fourth flow path 337, which is connected to the second flow path 326 within the damper / speed adjustment circuit 325, and the other end of the fifth flow path 338 is connected to the air tank 330. The check valve 328 and the first variable throttle valve 329 are connected in parallel to the midway portion of the fifth flow path 338. Furthermore, one side of the pilot check valve 327 is connected to the middle portion of the fourth flow path 337, and the other side of the fourth flow path 337 is connected to the inlet of the two-position switching valve 331.

[0186] By the switching action of the two-position switching valve 331, the first atmospheric opening device 332 and the second atmospheric opening device 334 are selectively connected to the outlet of the two-position switching valve 331. The switching action of the two-position switching valve 331 is performed in conjunction with the remaining amount of air in the air tank 330. In addition, the second variable throttle valve 333 is connected between the outlet of the two-position switching valve 331 and the first atmospheric opening device 332, and the third variable throttle valve 335 is connected between the outlet of the two-position switching valve 331 and the second atmospheric opening device 334. However, when the electromagnetic switching valve 323 is switched to the state of the first atmospheric opening device 332 by the output from the controller to the switching solenoid 323S, the electromagnetic switching valve 323 is switched to the state of the second atmospheric opening device 334. Figure 39 In the state shown in the one-side position, air flowing in from inlet 321 passes through second flow path 326 without load, passes through fourth flow path 337 and pilot check valve 327, and flows into the contraction-side port of second cylinder 241 via third flow path 336, causing piston 244 of second cylinder 241 to contract at high speed. Consequently, receiving plate 202 slides inwardly to the left and right, and the distance between the opposing ends of left and right receiving plates 202, 202 reaches the minimum distance P1.

[0187] In addition, part of the air flowing into the fourth flow path 337 flows from the fifth flow path 338 through the check valve 328 into the air box 330, and the pressure is accumulated in the air box 330. The accumulated pressure causes the two-position switching valve 331 to resist the rebound force of the return spring 331S and maintain the position. Figure 39 In addition, in this state, the air reaching the two-position switching valve 331 from the fourth flow path 337 is cut off by the pilot check valve 327.

[0188] When the solenoid switching valve 323 is switched to the other position by output from the controller to the switching solenoid 323S, the air flowing in from the inlet 321 flows through the first flow path 324 into the extension-side port of the second cylinder 241, causing the piston 244 of the second cylinder 241 to begin a high-speed extension movement. Consequently, the receiving plate 202 begins to slide leftward and rightward. During this sliding movement, the air in the chamber on the contraction side of the second cylinder 241 is discharged into the third flow path 336 due to the extension movement of the piston 244. The air then flows from the pilot check valve 327 through the open-side fourth flow path 337 to the inlet of the two-position switching valve 331.

[0189] Air reaching the inlet of the two-position switching valve 331 flows out of the outlet of the two-position switching valve 331, where its flow rate is restricted by the third variable throttle valve 335 and discharged to the outside through the second atmosphere release device 334. The restriction of the discharge flow rate by the third variable throttle valve 335 limits the amount of air discharged from the contraction-side chamber of the second cylinder 241. As a result, the extension speed of the piston 244 of the second cylinder 241 is controlled to a high, constant speed, and the sliding speed of the receiving plate 202 to the left and right sides is maintained constant. The extension speed of the piston 244 of the second cylinder 241, i.e., the sliding speed of the receiving plate 202, can be changed manually by adjusting the third variable throttle valve 335.

[0190] Furthermore, while the piston 244 of the second cylinder 241 is extending at high speed, the air accumulated in the air tank 330 flows out of the fifth flow path 338 and, while its flow rate is restricted by the first variable throttle valve 329, is gradually discharged to the outlet 322 via the second flow path 326 and the electromagnetic switching valve 323. When the accumulated air in the air tank 330 is exhausted, the two-position switching valve 331 is switched by the rebound force of the return spring 331S. Consequently, the air that has passed through the open-side fourth flow path 337 from the pilot check valve 327 is discharged to the outside through the first atmosphere release device 332 while its flow rate is restricted by the second variable throttle valve 333.

[0191] This state occurs just before the piston 244 of the second cylinder 241 reaches the end of its stroke in the extension direction, and the extension speed of the piston 244 is significantly reduced compared to the previous speed. As a result, the impact of the piston 244 reaching the end of its stroke in the extension direction is cushioned, which can mitigate the impact and noise caused by the emergency stop of the receiving plate 202.

[0192] (Traction plate)

[0193] Furthermore, a first slider 246 is slidably supported by the second connecting rod 217 located directly below the third connecting rod 219, and is positioned directly below the lower winding region of the timing belt 237. Furthermore, a portion of the lower winding region of the timing belt 237 is sandwiched from above and below by the upper surface of the first slider 246 and the lower surface of a plate 247 attached to the upper portion of the first slider 246. The plate 247 is fastened to the first slider 246 by bolts 248.

[0194] Furthermore, second sliders 249, 249, each containing a built-in ball-type sliding member and filled with grease, are arranged on the left and right sides of the first slider 246. These second sliders 249, 249 are supported slidably and rotatably on the second connecting rod 217. A traction plate 250 having a vertical surface and a horizontal surface and bent into an L-shape is fastened to the rear surfaces of the left and right second sliders 249, 249 with bolts 251.

[0195] Thus, the traction plate 250 and the two second sliders 249, 249 disposed so as to sandwich the first slider 246 are integrated, and the traction plate 250 is supported so as to be freely slidable in the left-right direction and freely rotatable in the up-down direction. Furthermore, the front and rear ends of the horizontal surface of the traction plate 250 are wider than the middle portion in the front-to-back direction, thereby stably securing the ends of the carrier tape 295.

[0196] (Support for the rear end of the receiving plate and the traction plate, and the upper rotation mechanism of the article moving device)

[0197] like Figures 16 to 22 As shown in (b), the front end of the cylindrical frame 252 that is elongated in the front-to-back direction is positioned on the left-right outer side of the rear surface of the rear connecting plate 223 and is fastened and fixed with bolts 253. In addition, the front end of the square cylindrical frame 254 that is elongated in the front-to-back direction is brought into contact with the left-right middle part of the rear surface of the rear connecting plate 223 and is fastened and fixed with bolts 255. Furthermore, the front surfaces of the left and right ends of the connecting plate 256 are brought into contact with the rear end of the cylindrical frame 252 and the rear end of the square cylindrical frame 254 and are fastened and fixed with bolts 257 and 258, respectively. Figure 22 (a) and Figure 22As shown in (b), a retainer 259 having an inverted L-shaped cross section is fixed to the lower end of the connecting plate 256 .

[0198] The upper surface of the first resin rail 260 is brought into contact with the lower surface of the upper edge of the retaining member 259, and the plate 261 is brought into contact with the lower surface of the first resin rail 260. A fall-off prevention plate 262 is superimposed on the lower surface of the plate 261 and secured together with bolts 263. The first resin rail 260 has a trapezoidal cross-section with an upper side longer than the lower side, and an inclined guide surface 260S is formed on the front surface, with the front side higher and the rear side lower. This inclined guide surface 260S provides sliding guidance from above to the rear edge of the receiving plate 202, which is formed at the rear end of the receiving plate 202. This restricts upward rotation of the receiving plate 202 about the axis of the third connecting rod 219.

[0199] Furthermore, the anti-drop plate 262 has an L-shaped cross-section, with its front edge positioned in an inclined position with the front lower and the rear higher when in the fixed position. Consequently, when the article moving device 200 rotates upward about the fulcrum shaft 206 as described later, the rear end of the receiving plate 202 abuts against the upper surface of the inclined front edge, preventing the receiving plate 202 from dropping downward.

[0200] Furthermore, one end of support arms 264, 264 is mounted to the left and right ends of the retainer 259 by bolt pins 265 so as to be freely rotatable in the vertical direction, and the left and right ends of the mounting plate 266 are fastened to the other ends of the left and right support arms 264, 264 by bolts 267. A second resin rail 268 elongated in the horizontal direction and in contact with the front surface of the mounting plate 266 is sandwiched and fastened between the plate 269 in contact with the front surface of the second resin rail 268 and the mounting plate 266.

[0201] like Figure 22 (a) and Figure 22 As shown in FIG. 2( b ), a first flat surface 268A is formed on the front upper portion of the second resin rail 268. The first flat surface 268A supports and slides on the lower surface of the rear end of the traction plate 250. Furthermore, the rear upper portion of the second resin rail 268 is formed to protrude upward, and a second flat surface 268B is formed at this upper end. The second flat surface 268B supports and slides on the lower surface of the rear end of the receiving plate 202. Furthermore, first indexing pins 270, 270, are provided on the left and right support arms 264, 264 to secure and release them for vertical rotation. Furthermore, the upper end of the support plate 271 is secured to the front of the lower end of the retaining member 259. A plurality of guide rollers 272 are mounted on the rear surface of the lower end of the support plate 271 using pin bolts 273, allowing for free rotation about their longitudinal axes.

[0202] On the other hand, Figure 22 (a) and Figure 22 As shown in FIG. 2( b ), the lower end of a vertical support plate 274 is fixed to a frame 275 integral with the machine platform 203. The left and right ends and the upper portion of the support plate 274 are bent rearward to form sidewalls 274S and an upper sidewall 274U. Furthermore, left and right pivot arms 276, 276 are attached to the upper portion of the sidewall 274S using bolts 277, 277 to allow for vertical rotation.

[0203] A second indexing pin 278 is attached to the left and right outer pivoting arms 276. The nose of the second indexing pin 278 engages with the side wall 274S, thereby securing the pivoting arm 276 in an upright position. Furthermore, the front surface of a locking plate 279, which is bent into an inverted L-shape when viewed from the side, abuts against the rear surfaces of the left and right pivoting arms 276 and is secured with bolts 280. A forward-bent restricting portion 279K is formed on the upper portion of the locking plate 279.

[0204] (Upper swing mechanism of the article moving device)

[0205] like Figures 16 to 22 As shown in FIG. 2( b ), a fan-shaped rotating plate 281 is disposed in a vertical position between the inner support plates 210 and 210 of the left and right movable units 200L and 200R. Furthermore, a support plate 282 is secured to the machine table 203 side with bolts 283. A left stay 284L and a right stay 284R are positioned upright on the front extension of the support plate 282 and secured with bolts 285. The lower portion of the rotating plate 281 is disposed between the left and right stays 284L and 284R.

[0206] The lower portion of the rotating plate 281 is pivotally supported between the left and right stays 284L and 284R so as to be freely swingable forward and backward via a left-right axis 286. The right stay 284R is formed higher than the left stay 284L, and a third indexing pin 287 is mounted on the upper portion of the right stay 284R.

[0207] A first through-hole 288 is formed in the lower portion of the rotating plate 281, closer to the front side than the shaft 286. When the nose of the third indexing pin 287 is inserted through this first through-hole 288, the rotating plate 281 is maintained in an inclined position with the front lower and the rear higher. Furthermore, a second through-hole 289 is formed above the shaft 286 in the rotating plate 281. When the rotating plate 281 is swung forward, the nose of the third indexing pin 287 is inserted through this second through-hole 289.

[0208] Furthermore, the right end of the left-right swing support shaft 290 is fastened to the lower center portion in the front-back direction of the inner support plate 210 in the right moving unit 200R with a bolt 291. Furthermore, the left side portion of the swing support shaft 290 is slidably inserted through a hole formed in the lower center portion in the front-back direction of the inner support plate 210 in the left moving unit 200L, and further extended to the left.

[0209] like Figure 22 (a) and Figure 22 As shown in FIG. 2( b ), a circular arc-shaped cam groove 292 is formed through the rotating plate 281, the distance to the shaft 286 decreasing toward its lower end and increasing toward its upper end. The swing support shaft 290 is inserted into the cam groove 292. Furthermore, an upper extension portion 294 is integrally formed at the rear of the rotating plate 281, into which an operating member 293, such as a slender tube, can be fitted.

[0210] (Upward swing of the item moving device)

[0211] However, if Figure 22 As shown in (a), with the nose of the second indexing pin 278 engaged with the side wall 274S, the locking plate 279 and the pivoting arms 276, 276 are raised. In this state, the guide roller 272 is placed on the upper surface of the upper side wall 274U, with the restricting portion 279K positioned above the guide roller 272. Consequently, the guide roller 272 is supported on the upper side wall 274U so as to be freely rotatable in the left-right direction, while being restrained from floating by the restricting portion 279K.

[0212] As a result, the lower surface of the rear end of the receiving plate 202 of the article moving device 200 is supported by the upper surface of the second flat surface portion 268B of the second resin rail 268, maintaining a substantially horizontal position. Furthermore, the lower surface of the rear end of the pulling plate 250 is supported by the upper surface of the first flat surface portion 268A of the second resin rail 268, maintaining a position along the lower surface of the receiving plate 202. In this state, the article moving device 200 is used to store the meat slices in the container.

[0213] On the other hand, Figure 22 As shown in FIG. 2( b ), during maintenance of the article moving device 200, the handle of the second indexing pin 278 is pulled to separate the nose from the side wall 274S, thereby retracting the restriction portion 279K formed on the upper portion of the locking plate 279 rearward from the upper side of the guide roller 272. This allows the left and right moving units 200L and 200R to swing upward about the fulcrum shaft 206.

[0214] Furthermore, by pulling the handle of the third indexing pin 287 to disengage the nose from the first through-hole 288, the rotating plate 281 is set to a state capable of rearward swing. In this state, the operator engages the operating member 293 with the upper extension 294 of the rotating plate 281 and operates the operating member 293 forward and downward, causing the rotating plate 281 to swing rearward. This rearward swing of the rotating plate 281 causes the cam groove 292 to swing about the shaft 286. The swing support shaft 290 is pulled (pushed) downward by the sliding contact between the swing support shaft 290 and the inner edge of the cam groove 292 on the side away from the shaft 286.

[0215] Thus, the article moving device 200, consisting of the left and right moving units 200L and 200R, can be swung forward and upward about the fulcrum shaft 206 with minimal operating force. At this time, the left and right moving units 200L and 200R are integrally swung forward and upward via the position control portion PK. Furthermore, when the article moving device 200 is thus swung forward and upward and opened, the center of gravity of the article moving device 200 shifts from the front side to the rear side of the fulcrum shaft 206. Furthermore, by inserting the nose of the third indexing pin 287 into the second through-hole 289, the article moving device 200 is stably supported in the open state.

[0216] In addition, if Figure 22 As shown in FIG. 2 (b), when the article moving device 200 is opened, the downward rotation of the pulling plate 250 is restricted by contact with the fourth connecting rod 221. Thus, by opening the article moving device 200, the upper portion of the pallet transport device 305, which is disposed in the space Q described later, is opened, making maintenance of the pallet transport device 305 easier.

[0217] (Loading and unloading structure of transfer belt)

[0218] like Figure 16 As shown, when forming the above-mentioned traction plate body 250, its front and rear ends are formed to have a large width, and its middle portion in the front-to-back direction is formed to have a narrow width throughout its length, and a notch portion in the front-to-back direction is formed at the corner portion where the narrow width portion switches to the wide width portion. However, the installation of the transfer belt 295 is as follows Figure 22 (b) shows the process performed with the article moving device 200 opened.

[0219] In this state, pulling the handle of the first indexing pin 270 releases the fixed position of the left and right support arms 264, 264, causing them to rotate downward. This causes the second resin rail 268 to retreat downward, allowing the traction plate 250 supported by the second resin rail 268 to rotate downward. The downward rotation position of the traction plate 250, centered around the second connecting rod 217, is restricted by the lower surface of the front end of the traction plate 250 abutting against the fourth connecting rod 221. Furthermore, the rear end of the receiving plate 202, supported by the second resin rail 268, is prevented from rotating downward (falling off) by abutting against the fall-prevention plate 262.

[0220] In this state, if Figure 23 As shown, the traction plate 250 is inserted through the first gap 295S formed by binding one end of the transfer belt 295 in a bag-like manner, and the front and rear ends of the portion of the transfer belt 295 surrounding the first gap 295S are hooked onto the front and rear cutouts formed in the traction plate 250. Thus, one end side of the transfer belt 295 is attached to the traction plate 250 and is pulled by the traction plate 250 to move.

[0221] On the other hand, the base of a hook member 296 is fixed to the front and rear ends of the cylindrical frame 252. Furthermore, an opening is formed in the upper portion of the hook member 296, opening obliquely outward and upward, and fourth indexing pins 297, 297, each having a nose that closes the entrance to this opening, are provided. Thus, when the tips of the noses of the fourth indexing pins 297, 297 are inserted into the holes formed in the circumferential surface of the cylindrical frame 252, the entrance to the opening is closed. Furthermore, when the handles of the fourth indexing pins 297, 297 are pulled upward, the noses are removed from the holes, and the fourth indexing pins 297, 297 are further moved upward and retracted, the entrance to the opening is opened.

[0222] A round rod 298, longer than the front-to-back width of the transfer belt 295, is inserted through the second gap 295E formed by forming the other end of the transfer belt 295 into a bag-binding shape. However, after the other end of the transfer belt 295 is pulled inward in the horizontal direction along the lower surface of the receiving plate 202, it is wrapped around the inner edge of the receiving plate 202 and folded back toward the upper surface of the receiving plate 202. Furthermore, the other end of the transfer belt 295 is pulled outward in the horizontal direction along the upper surface of the receiving plate 202, passed through the lower side of the square cylindrical frame 254, passed through the lower side of the cylindrical frame 252, and then folded back around the outer circumference of the cylindrical frame 252. The front and rear ends of the round rod 298 inserted through the other end of the transfer belt 295 are inserted through the openings of the front and rear hook members 296 and locked.

[0223] In this state, the nose tips of the front and rear fourth indexing pins 297, 297 are fitted into holes formed in the circumferential surface of the cylindrical frame 252 to prevent the round rod 298 from falling out of the openings of the hook members 296, 296. Thus, the other end of the transfer belt 295 is mounted on the cylindrical frame 252 and fixed at a fixed point.

[0224] As described above, the lower surface of the upper winding area of transfer belt 295 is slidably supported on receiving surface 201 formed on the upper surface of receiving plate 202. Alternatively, a configuration may be employed in which a groove extending in the front-to-back direction is formed on the circumference of cylindrical frame 252, and a round rod 298 inserted through the other end of transfer belt 295 is inserted into the groove, whereupon the rod 298 is prevented from falling out by fourth indexing pins 297, 297. Removal of transfer belt 295 is performed in the reverse order of the above.

[0225] (Operation of the main parts of the article moving device)

[0226] Hereinafter, the first position PS1 , the second position PS2 , and the third position PS3 will be described with reference to the position of the inner end portion of the receiving surface 201 or the receiving plate 202 that supports the transfer belt 295 .

[0227] (1st position)

[0228] That is, when the inner end of the receiving surface 201 or receiving plate 202 supporting the transfer belt 295 is located at the first position PS1, the receiving surface 201 or receiving plate 202 covers the entire upper area of the tray G1 conveyed thereunder (this state refers to the state in which the receiving surface 201 or receiving plate 202 overlaps the entire area of the tray G1 when viewed from above). Furthermore, with the inner end of the left and right receiving surfaces 201, 201 or the left and right receiving plates 202, 202 supporting the left and right transfer belts 295, 295 thus located at the first positions PS1, PS1, the two rows of conveyed meat slices m or the aggregate M of meat slices m are each supplied from the conveying terminal portion of the reciprocating conveyor 95 to the left and right transfer belts 295, 295.

[0229] (Movement from the first position to the second position)

[0230] In addition, even in the state where the left and right receiving surfaces 201, 201 or the inner ends of the receiving plates 202, 202 supporting the left and right transfer belts 295, 295 are moved to the second position PS2, PS2 which is slightly offset outward from the first position PS1, PS1, the receiving surfaces 201, 201 or the receiving plates 202, 202 roughly cover the upper sides of the two adjacent pallets G1, G1 conveyed therefrom (this state includes a state where a small portion of the ends of the pallets G1, G1 are not covered and are exposed when viewed from above). Furthermore, by moving the left and right receiving surfaces 201, 201 or the inner ends of the left and right receiving plates 202, 202 from the first position PS1, PS1 to the second position PS2, PS2, the left-right spacing of the meat slices m or the assembly M of meat slices m on the left and right transfer belts 295, 295 on the left and right receiving surfaces 201, 201 is expanded, and aligned with the positions on which they can be loaded on the two adjacent trays G1, G1 waiting below.

[0231] Furthermore, the amount of adjustment of the left-right spacing between the meat slices m or assemblies M on the left and right transfer belts 295, 295 is determined by the left-right spacing between the two conveying paths 20, 20 of the block meat conveying device 9 in the cutting section 4 and the conveying spacing between the plurality of trays G1 conveyed by the tray conveying device 305. In other words, the conveying spacing between the plurality of trays G1 conveyed by the tray conveying device 305 is determined by the left-right width of the trays G1 themselves, and therefore, there is a limit to reducing this conveying spacing.

[0232] On the other hand, the left-right spacing between the two rows of meat slices m or aggregates M cut and conveyed by the cutting section 4 is determined by the left-right spacing between the two conveying paths 20, 20 of the block meat conveying device 9. Furthermore, the center-to-center distance between two adjacent trays G1, G1 (commonly used food trays) conveyed at the aforementioned conveying spacing is longer (wider in the left-right direction) than the center-to-center distance between the two conveying paths 20, 20 of the block meat conveying device 9. Therefore, in order to place the two rows of meat slices m or aggregates M on the two adjacent trays G1, G1, it is necessary to eliminate the difference in the aforementioned center-to-center distances and widen the left-right spacing between the two rows of meat slices m or aggregates M conveyed at a narrower spacing.

[0233] Therefore, by moving the left and right receiving surfaces 201, 201 or the inner ends of the left and right receiving plates 202, 202 supporting the left and right transfer belts 295, 295 from the first position PS1, PS1 to the second position PS2, PS2 as described above, the left-right spacing of the meat slices m or the assembly M of meat slices m on the left and right transfer belts 295, 295 on the left and right receiving surfaces 201, 201 is expanded, and aligned with the positions where they can be placed on the two adjacent trays G1, G1 waiting below.

[0234] (Movement from the 2nd position to the 3rd position)

[0235] When the inner ends of the left and right receiving surfaces 201, 201 or the left and right receiving plates 202, 202 supporting the left and right transfer belts 295, 295 have moved significantly outward from the second position PS2 to the third position PS3, the receiving surfaces 201, 201 or the receiving plates 202, 202 are retracted from the upper side of the pallet G1 being conveyed thereunder, and the entire upper area of the pallet G1 is exposed. Furthermore, when the inner ends of the left and right receiving surfaces 201, 201 or the left and right receiving plates 202, 202 move to the third position PS3, located outward, the left and right transfer belts 295, 295 on the left and right receiving surfaces 201, 201 move inward relative to the left and right receiving plates 202, 202, respectively. As a result, the meat slices m or the meat aggregates M on the left and right transfer belts 295 and 295 are lowered and placed on the two trays G1 and G1 respectively without any position change in the left-right direction.

[0236] (Description of the operation of the receiving plate and transfer belt)

[0237] but, Figure 24 (a) and Figure 24 (b) is a front view for explaining the operation state of each moving unit after the moving units 200R and 200L on the left and right sides are moved outward (away from each other) by the shortening action of the first air cylinders 225 and 225. Figure 24 In the state (a), the left and right first cylinders 225, 225 are shortened, and the inner ends of the receiving surfaces 201, 201 or the receiving plates 202, 202 supporting the transfer belts 295, 295 are moved from the first positions PS1, PS1 covering the entire upper area of the two pallets G1, G1 to be transported therefrom to the second positions PS2, PS2 which are offset a small distance outward from the first positions PS1, PS1.

[0238] Accordingly, the interval between the inner ends of the left and right receiving plates 202, 202 is Figure 16 P1 shown expanded to Figure 18 Even in this state, the upper sides of the two trays G1, G1 conveyed therefrom are substantially covered by the receiving surfaces 201, 201 or the receiving plates 202, 202 supporting the transfer belts 295, 295.

[0239] In addition, the left and right second cylinders 241, 241 are shortened, and the left and right receiving plates 202, 202 integrated with the top ends of the pistons 244, 244 of the second cylinders 241, 241 move toward the inside of the article moving device 200. However, when the second cylinder 241 is extended from this state, Figure 24 As shown in FIG. 2( b ), the receiving surface 201 or the inner end of the receiving plate 202 supporting the transfer belt 295 moves from the second position PS2 to the third position PS3. Furthermore, the axis 234 of the first timing pulley 233 and the axis 236 of the second timing pulley 235, which are integrated with the top end of the piston 244 of the second cylinder 241, move forward and outward along with the receiving plate 202 through a full stroke.

[0240] Here, a portion of the upper winding area of the timing belt 237 wound around the first and second timing pulleys 233, 235 is held in a fixed position by a fixing member 238. Therefore, when the axis 234 of the first and second timing pulleys 233, 235 moves outward, the two timing pulleys 233 and 235 rotate in the same direction, and the lower winding area of the timing belt 237 moves outward. Consequently, the first slider 246 attached to the lower winding area of the timing belt 237 moves outward integrally with the traction plate 250, and one end of the transfer belt 295 is pulled outward by the traction plate 250.

[0241] At this time, the transfer belt 295 is folded back from the upper surface of the receiving plate 202 to the inner end of the receiving plate 202 and along the lower surface of the receiving plate 202. Therefore, in order to prevent the transfer belt 295 from being loose and to move the inner end of the receiving plate 202 outward, the pulling plate body 250 needs to be moved outward twice as far as the amount of movement of the receiving plate 202 outward. Figure 24 (a) to Figure 24 As shown in the state change of (b), a temporary assumption point CP1 is set on the receiving plate 202 in the transfer belt 295 ( Figure 24 (a)), it is assumed that the inner end of the receiving plate 202 supporting the transfer belt 295 moves to the temporary assumed point CP1 ( Figure 24 (b)).

[0242] At this time, the outer end of the traction plate body 250 must move a second movement distance T, which is twice the first movement distance S, for the inner end of the receiving surface 201 or receiving plate 202 supporting the transfer belt 295 to reach the provisional assumed point CP1. Therefore, a mechanism comprising the aforementioned timing belt 237 and two timing pulleys 233 and 235 is provided. This mechanism ensures that the outward movement speed of the traction plate body 250 is twice the outward movement speed of the receiving plate 202 (the extension speed of the piston 244 of the second cylinder 241). Consequently, when the receiving surface 201 or receiving plate 202 supporting the transfer belt 295 moves from the second position PS2 to the third position PS3, the transfer belt 295 slides relative to the receiving surface 201 at the same speed in a direction opposite to the direction of movement of the receiving surface 201.

[0243] also, Figure 24 (a) is a closed state in which the receiving plate 202 or the receiving surface 201 supporting the transfer belt 295 intrudes above the pallet G1 and substantially covers the upper portion of the pallet G1. Figure 24 (b) is an open state in which the receiving plate 202 (receiving surface 201) is retracted from the upper side of the pallet G1 to open the upper side of the pallet G1. Figure 24 In the state (b), the meat slices m or aggregates M on the transfer belt 295 are peeled off the surface of the transfer belt 295 by the transfer belt 295's folding back at the inner end of the receiving plate 202, and fall into the tray G1 for storage. Specifically, the meat slices m or aggregates M placed on the receiving surface 201 by the transfer belt 295's conveying terminal end portion of the conveying action unit 5R on the downstream side of the conveying direction are lowered so as to fall into the tray G1 directly below, with their left-right and front-back positions restored to their original positions, and are then stored.

[0244] also, Figure 16 、 Figure 17 FIG. 2 shows a state where the receiving surface 201 or the receiving plate 202 supporting the transfer belt 295 is located at the first position PS1 covering the entire upper area of the pallet G1. Figure 18 、 Figure 19 The receiving surface 201 or the receiving plate 202 is shown in a state where it moves outward to a second position PS2 (a second position offset by a predetermined distance from the first position) where it substantially covers the upper side of the pallet G1. Figure 20 、 Figure 21 The receiving surface 201 or receiving plate 202 supporting the transfer belt 295 is shown moved outward to the third position PS3, which opens the top of the pallet G1 (the third position for lowering the articles on the transfer body). Furthermore, as described above, the receiving surface 201 or receiving plate 202 is positioned below the forward and backward movement range of the transfer terminal portion of the transfer action unit 5R, which is located downstream in the transfer direction.

[0245] (Pallet transport device)

[0246] Figures 25 to 27 FIG. 3 shows a tray transport device 305 having a container supply unit 300. Figure 25 As shown, the container supply unit 300 is equipped with a rail-shaped tray storage unit 303 and a tray peeling device 304. The tray storage unit 303 comprises a rail-shaped frame that stores a plurality of stacked empty trays G1 and slides downward to prevent them from falling. The tray peeling device 304 peels and removes the trays G1 one by one from the lower end of the tray storage unit 303.

[0247] The tray peeling device 304 includes a rotating arm 307 with a suction cup 306 at its tip, and an electric motor 308 for rotating the rotating arm 307. The suction cup 306 is connected to the tip of a suction pipe (not shown) located within the rotating arm 307. The device is configured so that when the rotating arm 307 is raised and rotated, negative pressure is generated, which attracts the lower surface of the tray G1. After this attraction, the rotating arm 307 is lowered and rotated to release the negative pressure, allowing the attracted tray G1 to be placed on the tray transport device 305.

[0248] The tray transporting device 305 transports the tray G1, removed by the tray stripping device 304, in a direction perpendicular to the transport section 5 when viewed from above, passing from right to left within the space Q formed below the left and right receiving plates 202, 202 of the article moving device 200 in the storage section 6. The tray transporting device 305 comprises an endless chain 316 wound between a drive sprocket 315 located at the transport terminal end and a driven sprocket 314 located at the transport starting end. An electric motor 313 is provided to rotationally drive the drive sprocket 315. The endless chain 316 is equipped with a plurality of locking plates 317 spaced apart by a predetermined length greater than the width of the tray G1. The locking plates 317 press the upstream end of each tray G1 in the transport direction. Alternatively, the electric motor 313 can be driven in the reverse direction to move the tray G1 back upstream in the transport direction.

[0249] In addition, a pair of front and rear conveying guide rails 318, which restrict the front and rear positions and the vertical positions of the pallet G1 and have a U-shaped cross-section, are arranged in three sections in the conveying direction of the pallet G1. Among the three conveying guide rails 318A, 318B, and 318C, the first conveying guide rail 318A located on the upstream side in the conveying direction is fixed in a position that cannot be raised or lowered. Figure 33As shown, the second conveying guide rail 318B in the middle portion and the third conveying guide rail 318C located at the most downstream side in the conveying direction are arranged directly below the left and right receiving surfaces 201, 201 of the article moving device 200, and are constructed to be independently raised and lowered by two cylinders 319, 319.

[0250] (Cutting action)

[0251] According to the type and state of the cut meat, the operating conditions are set, the setting conditions of each part are changed, and the start switch 401 described later is operated. Accordingly, the circular movement of the endless belt blade 49 of the cutting part 4 and the conveying drive of the conveying part 5 are started.

[0252] In this initial state, the supply section 3 is at the lower limit of its swing range. When a meat block is added to the supply section 3 and the feed switch is turned on, the meat block conveying device 9 begins to operate. Consequently, the added meat block is conveyed forward by the meat block conveying device 9, where the leading end of the meat block abuts the rear surface of the receiving plate 43, restricting its position. As the supply section 3 rises and swings from this state, the blade edge of the circular blade 49, which moves from right to left, cuts into the leading end of the meat block protruding from the left and right openings 35 from above. At this point, the leading end of the meat block is restricted in position by the receiving plate 43, so the leading end of the meat block is cut by the circular blade 49 with a uniform thickness.

[0253] When the supply unit 3 rises and swings to a position near the upper limit of its swing range, the leading end of the meat block is cut by the annular blade 49. The meat slices, cut to a predetermined thickness, then pass through the gap T formed between the upper end of the receiving plate 43 and the lower end of the annular blade 49 and are delivered to the upper circumferential surfaces of the annular plates 74, 74 of the left and right delivery rotors 72, 72, positioned in front of the receiving plate 43. The supply unit 3 then descends and swings to the lower limit of its swing range, returning to its initial state. Thereafter, the supply unit 3 rises and swings again, repeating the above-described process of cutting the meat block.

[0254] The meat slices thus passed through the spacers T and delivered to the upper circumferences of the annular plates 74, 74 of the rotating bodies 72, 72 are peeled from the circumferences of the annular plates 74 by the tips of the swinging thin rods 82, becoming folded in half. In this manner, the meat slices are sequentially placed onto the conveying start end of the conveying endless belt 96, with portions of the meat slices overlapping one another, forming two rows of meat slice m assemblies M, M. Within these two rows of assemblies M, M, a predetermined gap (assembly gap) P is formed between each row of assemblies M and the next.

[0255] During this cutting operation, when the electric motor 61 for adjusting the thickness of the cut meat slices m is operated to adjust the position of the receiving plate 43 relative to the opening 35, the receiving plate 43 and the first support member 55 supporting the transport action section 5F on the upstream side in the transport direction move in the front-to-back direction. However, the front support table 116 supporting the transport action section 5R on the downstream side in the transport direction is integrally assembled with the third support member 53 on the machine 2 side and is therefore not affected by the position adjustment of the receiving plate 43 and does not move in the front-to-back direction.

[0256] Therefore, even if the thickness of the meat slices m to be cut is adjusted, the position of the conveying portion 5R on the downstream side of the conveying direction of the conveying portion 5 does not change. Therefore, the position of the meat slices m or the collection of meat slices m M delivered from the conveying terminal of the conveying portion 5R to the storage portion 6 is stable. In other words, the position of the meat slices m or the collection of meat slices M relative to the receiving surface 201 of the article moving device 200 provided in the storage portion 6 is not easily changed, allowing for smooth subsequent storage operations. Furthermore, because the positional relationship between the receiving plate 43 and the conveying portion 5F on the upstream side of the conveying direction of the conveying portion 5 does not change, the cut and folded meat slices m are smoothly delivered to the conveying portion 5F and conveyed.

[0257] (Storage action)

[0258] The two rows of assemblies M, M formed by the above-mentioned cutting operation are conveyed to the storage section 6 with a predetermined narrow gap formed between the rows. Figures 30 to 37 As shown in FIG. 1 , the interval between each row of the assemblies M, M being transported is referred to as "meat row interval P0".

[0259] (Delivery of the assembly to the transfer belt on the receiving surface)

[0260] However, if Figure 28 、 Figure 29 As shown, when the storage operation starts, first, while the transport terminal of the reciprocating conveyor belt 95 in the transport operation is moved backward, the two rows of assemblies M, M transported at the meat row interval P0 are lowered and delivered to the transfer belts 295, 295 on the left and right receiving surfaces 201, 201 of the article moving device 200. Figure 16 、 Figure 30 、 Figure 31 As shown, even when the left and right assemblies M, M are delivered to the transfer belts 295, 295 on the left and right receiving surfaces 201, 201, the interval between the left and right assemblies M, M is still the meat row interval P0.

[0261] Furthermore, in this state, the two pallets G1, G1 need to be placed side by side on the lower sides of the left and right receiving surfaces 201, 201 and wait for a while, but the two pallets G1, G1 need to be arranged at intervals so as not to overlap. Therefore, the left-right center position of each assembly M on the transfer belt 295 delivered to the receiving surface 201 and the left-right center position of the pallet G1 are offset in the left-right direction. If the assembly M on the transfer belt 295 on the receiving surface 201 is dropped as it is, the assembly M may protrude from the pallet G1 (in the case of Figure 30 、 Figure 31 (a) The misalignment between the assembly M shown by the solid line and the tray G1 shown by the dotted line is eliminated as follows.

[0262] (Phase 1 Actions)

[0263] First, if Figure 16 、 Figure 17 、 Figure 30 、 Figure 31 As shown, the left and right first air cylinders 225, 225 are extended to bring the left and right receiving surfaces 201, 201 closest to each other. When the distance between the inner ends of the left and right receiving plates 202, 202 (strictly speaking, the distance between the folded portions of the left and right transfer belts 295, 295) becomes the minimum distance P1, the two rows of assemblies M, M are delivered from the terminal end of the reciprocating conveyor 95 to the transfer belts 295, 295 on the left and right receiving surfaces 201, 201. And then, as shown Figure 18 、 Figure 32 As shown, the left and right first air cylinders 225, 225 are shortened by a set amount, so that the left and right movable units 200L, 200R are moved outward (in opposite directions) to expand the interval between the inner ends of the left and right receiving surfaces 201, 201 to the intermediate interval P2. The positions of the left and right receiving surfaces 201, 201 in a state where the interval between the inner ends of the left and right receiving surfaces 201, 201 is the intermediate interval P2 is defined as the second position PS2.

[0264] Furthermore, while the distance between the inner ends of the left and right receiving surfaces 201, 201 expands from the minimum distance P1 to the intermediate distance P2, the left and right receiving surfaces 201, 201 intrude upon the upper sides of the trays G1, G1, and the upper sides of the trays G1, G1 are substantially covered by the receiving surfaces 201, 201. The position of the left and right receiving surfaces 201, 201 when the distance between the inner ends of the left and right receiving surfaces 201, 201 is at the minimum distance P1 is defined as the first position PS1. Furthermore, in this state, the assemblies M, M of the meat slices m on the transfer belts 295, 295 on the left and right receiving surfaces 201, 201 are positioned directly above the trays G1, G1 waiting below.

[0265] (Phase 2 Actions)

[0266] In this state, the cylinder 319 of the tray transport unit 302 is moved upward to move the trays G1 and G1 to the set position. Figure 20 、 Figure 36 As shown, during or after the ascent of the pallet G1, G1, the left and right second air cylinders 241, 241 are extended by a set amount to expand the interval between the inner ends of the left and right receiving surfaces 201, 201 to the maximum interval P3. The positions of the left and right receiving surfaces 201, 201 in the state where the interval between the inner ends of the left and right receiving surfaces 201, 201 becomes the maximum interval P3 are defined as the third position PS3. In this state, the left and right receiving surfaces 201, 201 retreat from the upper side of the pallet G1, G1 to the left and right outer sides, and the upper side of the pallet G1, G1 is open. In addition, Figure 34 、 Figure 35 The state where the interval between the inner end portions of the left and right receiving surfaces 201 and 201 is in the middle interval PM is shown as being expanded from the middle interval P2 to the maximum interval P3.

[0267] During the period when the interval between the inner ends of the left and right receiving surfaces 201, 201 expands from the middle interval P2 to the maximum interval P3 via the middle interval PM, that is, when both the receiving surfaces 201, 201 move from the first position PS1 to the second position PS2, the transfer belts 295, 295 provided move at the same speed relative to the receiving surfaces 201, 201 in the direction opposite to the moving direction of the receiving surfaces 201, 201. Accordingly, the assemblies M, M fall into the trays G1, G1 and are accommodated without any change in position left and right or front and back. The trays G1, G1 accommodating the assemblies M, M descend to the initial position, pass through the space Q through the tray conveying device 305, and are carried out to the left and outer sides. The above actions are repeated in synchronization with the intervals to which the assemblies M, M are conveyed.

[0268] Furthermore, when the left and right receiving surfaces 201, 201 (left and right receiving plates 202, 202, left and right transfer belts 295, 295) are expanded to the maximum spacing P3 as described above, the transport unit 5R is positioned within this maximum spacing P3 (maximum spacing P3 is greater than the left and right width of the transport unit 5R). Furthermore, the lower winding area of the endless belt 96 in the reciprocating conveyor 95 needs to be set at a height close to the upper side of the left and right receiving surfaces 201, 201 to improve the delivery efficiency of the assembly M.

[0269] Therefore, if the lower winding area DA of the endless belt 96 in the reciprocating conveyor 95 becomes slack, when the left and right second air cylinders 241, 241 are shortened by a set amount to return the left and right receiving surfaces 201, 201 to the intermediate space P2, there is a possibility that the inner ends of the left and right receiving plates 202, 202 may interfere with the endless belt 96 in the reciprocating conveyor 95. However, as described above, since the lower winding area DA of the endless belt 96 in the reciprocating conveyor 95 is tilted so as to be lower in front and higher in the rear, the lower winding area DA of the endless belt 96 can be prevented from drooping and interfering with the inner ends of the left and right receiving plates 202, 202 (strictly speaking, the folded-back ends of the left and right transfer belts 295, 295) during the storage operation of the aggregates M.

[0270] (Control Circuit of Slicer as Assembly Forming Device)

[0271] The slicer 1 constructed as described above cuts the block of meat MF from its top end to a predetermined thickness, folds the cut meat slices m, and forms an aggregate M by arranging the folded multiple meat slices m in such a manner that parts of the folded meat slices m overlap with each other.

[0272] However, if Figure 40 As shown, the controller 400 of the control unit 7 is connected to the input side of the start switch 401, the meat slice height automatic setting on-off switch 402, the block meat height manual setting switch 403, the parallel length manual setting switch 404, the parallel slice number manual setting switch 405, the parallel slice number automatic control on-off switch 406, the left block meat height measurement potentiometer 407, the right block meat height measurement potentiometer 408, the supply unit swing angle measurement potentiometer 409, the lower annular belt movement distance measurement sensor 410, the left delivery rotor rotation phase measurement potentiometer 411, the right delivery rotor rotation phase measurement potentiometer 412, the left rod body rotation angle detection potentiometer 413, the right A potentiometer 414 for detecting the rotation angle of the rod-shaped body, a potentiometer 415 for measuring the extension and contraction position of the cylinder for actuating the pressing member, a potentiometer 416 for detecting the swing angle of the swing arm, a sensor 417 for measuring the movement distance of the conveyor belt, a sensor 418 for measuring the forward and backward position of the rear end of the conveyor belt, a potentiometer 419 for measuring the extension and contraction position of the first cylinder on the left side, a potentiometer 420 for measuring the extension and contraction position of the first cylinder on the right side, a potentiometer 421 for measuring the extension and contraction position of the second cylinder on the left side, a potentiometer 422 for measuring the extension and contraction position of the second cylinder on the right side, a sensor 423 for moving the tray conveyor belt, a potentiometer 424 for measuring the rotation position of the peeling arm, a camera CA (the "camera unit" of the claim), and an on-off switch TSS for controlling the stop position of the tray.

[0273] On the other hand, the output side of the controller 400 is connected with an electric motor driver 424D for cutting, an electric motor driver 425 for swinging, an electric motor driver 426 for conveying, an electric motor driver 427 for left delivery, an electric motor driver 428 for right delivery, an electric motor driver 429 for left swinging, an electric motor driver 430 for right swinging, an electric motor driver 431 for left withdrawal, an electric motor driver 432 for right withdrawal, a valve solenoid 433 for a cylinder, an electric motor driver 434 for conveying drive, an electric motor driver 435 for up and down movement, an electric motor driver 436 for telescopic movement, and an electric motor driver 437 for connecting the motor to the output side of the controller 400. Motor driver 436, valve solenoid 437 for the first air cylinder on the left, valve solenoid 438 for the first air cylinder on the right, valve solenoid 439 for the second air cylinder on the left, valve solenoid 440 for the second air cylinder on the left, pallet conveying electric motor driver 441, electric motor driver 442 for the pallet moving arm, solenoid 443 for the adsorption valve, pallet conveying electric motor driver 313D for driving the electric motor 313 of the pallet conveying device 305, and lifting valve solenoids 319, 319S for the cylinders 319, 319 for raising and lowering the second conveying guide rail 318B and the third conveying guide rail 318C.

[0274] (Description of switches and sensors connected to the input side)

[0275] A start switch 401 connected to the input side of the controller 400 is used to start the entire slicer 1 and switch the state to a state in which a command signal can be output from the output side of the controller 400 to the electric motor driver, etc. When the start switch 401 is turned on, the output side of the controller 400 first outputs a command signal to the cutting electric motor driver 424D, the swinging electric motor driver 425, the transport electric motor driver 426, the left delivery electric motor driver 427, and the right delivery electric motor driver 428, thereby starting to drive the cutting unit 4, the supply unit 3, and the transport unit 5.

[0276] The meat slice height automatic setting on-off switch 402 is used to turn on or off (switch to valid / invalid) the meat slice height automatic setting described later. The block meat height manual setting switch 403 is used to visually judge the height of the block meat before cutting and input (set).

[0277] The manual parallel length setting switch 404 is used to manually change the parallel length of the cut meat slices m (the total length of the assembly M, which is the manual parallel length setting value E described below) before the cutting operation begins. The manual parallel number setting switch 405 is used to manually set the number of meat slices m that form one assembly M before the cutting operation begins.

[0278] The parallel slice number automatic control on-off switch 406 is used to turn on or off (switch to valid / invalid) the parallel slice number automatic control described later. In addition, the above switch is displayed on the liquid crystal panel and is operated by touch operation.

[0279] The left meat block height measuring potentiometer 407 is used to measure the vertical movement position of the left pressing plate 29 disposed at the front portion of the left meat block conveying passage 20, thereby measuring the height of the top portion of the meat block supplied to the left conveying passage 20. The right meat block height measuring potentiometer 408 is used to measure the vertical movement position of the right pressing plate 29 disposed at the front portion of the right meat block conveying passage 20, thereby measuring the height of the top portion of the meat block supplied to the right conveying passage 20.

[0280] The potentiometer 409 for measuring the supply section swing angle measures the vertical swing angle of the supply section 3. The sensor 410 for measuring the lower endless belt travel distance measures the travel distance of the lower endless belt 25 in the supply section 3 (the transport distance of the block meat) based on the rotation speed of the transport electric motor 31 and other factors.

[0281] The left delivery rotating body rotation phase measuring potentiometer 411 measures the rotation angle of the left delivery rotating body 72. The right delivery rotating body rotation phase measuring potentiometer 412 measures the rotation angle of the right delivery rotating body 72.

[0282] The left rod-shaped body rotation angle detection potentiometer 413 measures the rotation angle of the left rod-shaped body 81 having a plurality of thin rods 82. The right rod-shaped body rotation angle detection potentiometer 414 measures the rotation angle of the right rod-shaped body 81 having a plurality of thin rods 82.

[0283] The potentiometer 415 for measuring the extension and contraction position of the pressing member actuating cylinder measures the extension and contraction position of the cylinder 87 that vertically moves the pressing member 88 having the linear pressing member 89. The potentiometer 416 for detecting the swing arm swing angle measures the vertical swing angle of the swing arm 103 provided at the starting end of the conveying section 5.

[0284] The conveyor belt travel distance measurement sensor 417 measures the travel distance (conveying distance) of the endless belt 96 in the conveying section 5 based on the rotational speed of the conveying drive electric motor 112, etc. The conveyor belt rear end forward / retractable position measurement sensor 418 measures the travel position of the conveying terminal portion of the conveying action portion (second conveying action portion) 5R on the downstream side in the conveying direction of the conveying section 5 based on the rotational speed of the telescopic electric motor 135, etc.

[0285] The left first air cylinder telescopic position measuring potentiometer 419 measures the telescopic position of the left first air cylinder 225 for adjusting the gap in the article moving device 200. The right first air cylinder telescopic position measuring potentiometer 420 measures the telescopic position of the right first air cylinder 225 for adjusting the gap in the article moving device 200.

[0286] The left second air cylinder telescopic position measuring potentiometer 421 measures the telescopic position of the left second air cylinder 241 for sliding in the article moving device 200. The right second air cylinder telescopic position measuring potentiometer 422 measures the telescopic position of the right second air cylinder 241 for sliding in the article moving device 200.

[0287] The tray conveyor travel distance sensor 423 measures the position of the tray G1 being transported by the tray transport device 305 based on the rotation speed of the electric motor 313 driving the tray transport device 305. The peeling arm rotation position measuring potentiometer 424 measures the rotation angle of the rotating arm 307 that peels and removes the tray G1 from the loading section based on the rotation speed of the electric motor 308.

[0288] The camera CA has a single-lens solid-state imaging element. The solid-state imaging element is composed of a CCD image sensor, a CMOS image sensor, etc., but is not limited thereto. In addition, it can also be set as an infrared camera. In addition, the camera CA has a field of view that can capture an area exceeding the left and right widths of the conveyor belt 96W. As described later, the side ends of the conveyor belt 96W (the left and right ends of the endless belt 96) also enter the field of view. In addition, the distance to the side end of the conveyor belt 96W can be calculated based on the number of pixels of the captured image. The tray stop position control on-off switch TSS is used to automatically perform the stop position correction of the tray described later.

[0289] (Description of the driver, etc. connected to the output side)

[0290] Furthermore, a cutting electric motor driver 424D connected to the input side of the controller 400 supplies power to the cutting electric motor 44, thereby controlling the drive of the endless belt blade 49. A swinging electric motor driver 425 supplies power to the swinging electric motor 13, thereby controlling the swing drive of the supply unit 3 in the vertically inclined direction. A conveying electric motor driver 426 supplies power to the conveying drive electric motor 112, thereby controlling the drive of the conveying unit 5.

[0291] The left delivery electric motor driver 427 supplies power to the left delivery electric motor 76 to drive and control the left delivery rotor 72. The right delivery electric motor driver 428 supplies power to the right delivery electric motor 76 to drive and control the right delivery rotor 72.

[0292] The left swing electric motor driver 429 supplies power to the left swing electric motor 80 to drive and control the left rod-shaped body 81 having a plurality of thin rods 82. The right swing electric motor driver 430 supplies power to the right swing electric motor 80 to drive and control the right rod-shaped body 81 having a plurality of thin rods 82.

[0293] The left side withdrawal electric motor driver 431 supplies power to the left side withdrawal electric motor 84, and controls the thin rod 82 and the left rod-shaped body 81 to withdraw. The right side withdrawal electric motor driver 432 supplies power to the right side withdrawal electric motor 84, and controls the thin rod 82 and the right rod-shaped body 81 to withdraw.

[0294] The cylinder valve solenoid 433 operates a valve that controls the amount of air supplied to or discharged from the cylinder 87 , thereby moving the pressing member 88 including the linear pressing member 89 up and down.

[0295] The transport drive electric motor driver 434 supplies power to the transport drive electric motor 112, controlling the drive of the endless belt 96 of the transport unit 5. The vertical motion electric motor driver 435 supplies power to the vertical motion electric motor 105, controlling the vertical swing of the swing arm 103. The telescopic electric motor driver 436 supplies power to the telescopic electric motor 135, controlling the forward and backward movement of the transport terminal portion of the transport action portion 5R on the downstream side of the transport direction of the transport unit 5.

[0296] The left first air cylinder valve solenoid 437 operates the valve that controls the amount of air supplied or discharged to the left first air cylinder 225, thereby changing the left-right position of the left movable unit 200L. The right first air cylinder valve solenoid 438 operates the valve that controls the amount of air supplied or discharged to the right first air cylinder 225, thereby changing the left-right position of the right movable unit 200R.

[0297] The left second air cylinder valve solenoid 439 operates the valve that controls the amount of air supplied or discharged to the left second air cylinder 241, causing the receiving plate 202 (receiving surface 201) of the left movable unit 200L to slide horizontally. The right second air cylinder valve solenoid 440 operates the valve that controls the amount of air supplied or discharged to the right second air cylinder 241, causing the receiving plate 202 (receiving surface 201) of the right movable unit 200R to slide horizontally.

[0298] The tray transport electric motor driver 441 supplies power to the electric motor 313, driving and controlling the endless chain 316 of the tray transport device 305. The tray moving arm electric motor driver 442 supplies power to the electric motor 308, rotating and controlling the rotation arm 307 that removes the tray G1 and transfers it to the tray transport device 305.

[0299] The suction valve solenoid 443 operates the suction valve, causing it to adhere to the bottom surface of the lowest tray G1 among the stacked trays G1. The tray transport electric motor driver 313D controls the speed and direction of the electric motor 313 that drives the tray transport device 305. The lift valve solenoids 319 and 319S operate the valves that control the amount of air supplied to the air cylinders 319 and 319, thereby raising and lowering the second and third transport guide rails 318B and 318C.

[0300] (Control of the formation of the aggregate of meat slices)

[0301] However, according to Figure 41 、 Figure 42 The flowchart shown describes the formation control of the aggregate M of the meat slices m. In addition, the following describes a state in which the block meat MF is supplied to only one of the left and right conveying passages 20, 20 of the supply section 3. However, as long as the lower annular belt 25 provided in the left and right conveying passages 20, 20 of the supply section 3 and the annular belt 96 provided in the conveying section 5 are formed separately on the left and right and driven independently, the block meat MF can be supplied to the left and right conveying passages 20, 20 to control the formation of the aggregate M. In addition, the "meat slice height" in this embodiment refers to the length of the meat slice m in the conveying direction when the meat slice m formed by cutting in the up and down directions is conveyed by the annular belt 96. However, based on Figure 41 、 Figure 42 The flowchart shown is used for explanation.

[0302] (1st process)

[0303] First, the operating conditions are set according to the type and condition of the meat block MF to be cut, the setting conditions of each component are changed, and the start switch 401 is operated. Based on the measurement results of the sensors 407 to 417, the controller 400 outputs control signals to the electric motor drivers 424D to 432 and 434 to 436 and the valve solenoid 433, starting the aforementioned driving of the cutting unit 4, the swinging and driving of the supply unit 3, and the driving of the conveying unit 5. (STEP 1)

[0304] Thus, the cutting (slicing) of the meat block MF and the folding of the cut meat slices m are started, and the folded meat slices m are sequentially placed on the conveying start end portion of the endless belt 96 in a conveying operation so that at least a portion of each folded meat slice m overlaps one another vertically, thereby forming aggregates M, M of the meat slices m. A predetermined interval (aggregate interval) P, which will be described later, is formed between the aggregates M formed in this manner and the next aggregate M.

[0305] During the formation of the aggregate M of meat slices m, when the automatic meat slice height setting on / off switch 402 is turned to the on position (ON) (or is operated), the automatic meat slice height setting is switched to the on (active state), and the process shifts to height measurement (thickness measurement) of the meat block MF (STEP 2). During this height measurement (thickness measurement) of the meat block MF, the left meat block height measurement potentiometer 407 and the right meat block height measurement potentiometer 408, whichever is on the side supplying the meat block MF, measure the height (thickness) of the top portion of the meat block MF to obtain a measured meat block height value X (STEP 3). Based on this value, the height (length in the conveying direction) of the meat slices m is calculated.

[0306] That is, the temporarily calculated meat slice height value A is calculated using the following formula based on the block meat height measurement value X and the variable Y (STEP 4).

[0307] A=X×Y

[0308] The value of Y varies depending on the folding position of the meat slice m. When the meat slice is folded at the center of its height, Y=0.5.

[0309] Based on the calculated meat slice height value A, the parallel length manual setting value E set by operating the parallel length manual setting switch 404, and the parallel slice number manual setting value F set by the parallel slice number manual setting switch 405, the manual setting of the parallel form is established (STEP 5). The parallel length manual setting value E is a value obtained by changing the length of each assembly M in the conveying direction by the parallel length manual setting switch 404 in combination with the size of the tray G1 to be used (the length in the conveying direction). In addition, the parallel slice number manual setting value F is a value obtained by arbitrarily changing the number of meat slices m that form each assembly M by operating the parallel slice number manual setting switch 405. And, when the parallel slice number automatic control on-off switch 406 is operated to the on side (ON) (or when it is operated), it is transferred to the parallel reference value automatic setting performed at the automatic control on time point T0 (STEP 6).

[0310] During this automatic setting of the parallel reference value, the calculated height value A0 of the meat slice m at time T0 is replaced with the meat slice height reference value G and stored, and the manually set value F for the number of parallel slices is replaced with the parallel slice number reference value H and stored, then the process proceeds to the calculation of the number of parallel slices I (STEP 7). The number of parallel slices I is calculated using the following formula based on the calculated meat slice height value A, the meat slice height reference value G, and the parallel slice number reference value H. This calculated value is rounded down to an integer (STEP 8).

[0311] Calculated value = (G / A) × H

[0312] For example, when the calculated value of the above formula is 5.1 or 5.9, the number of slices in parallel is 5. The calculated value A of the meat slice height is always calculated, but the number of slices does not change while the integer value obtained by rounding down does not change.

[0313] In addition, the parallel spacing K is calculated using the following formula based on the manually set value E of the parallel length, the calculated value A of the meat slice height, and the number of parallel slices I (STEP 9).

[0314] K=(EA) / (I-1)

[0315] Then, based on the measurement result of the conveyor belt travel distance measurement sensor 417, the endless belt 96 forming the conveyor belt of the transport section 5 is driven a distance equal to the parallel pitch K (STEP 10), while a meat slice m cut and folded from the cutting section 4 is placed on the endless belt 96, and the above operation is repeated (STEP 11). Furthermore, even if the calculated value of the parallel pitch K changes during the formation of a single assembly, the parallel pitch is prohibited from being changed until the number of parallel slices reaches the integer obtained in STEP 8.

[0316] The number of sheets placed side by side on the endless belt 96 is determined by the reciprocating rotation of the left rod-shaped body rotation angle detection potentiometer 413 or the right rod-shaped body rotation angle detection potentiometer 414. When the number of sheets placed side by side matches the number of sheets placed side by side I, the process proceeds to calculating the conveyor movement distance for forming the separation between the aggregates (STEP 12). The conveyor movement distance P for forming the separation between the aggregates is calculated using the following formula based on the effective conveying length L of the endless belt 96 (effective conveyor length), the manually set parallel length value E, and the number of aggregates R (STEP 13).

[0317] P = (LE × R) / (R-1)

[0318] The conveyor movement amount P becomes the interval between adjacent assemblies M, M, and is measured by the conveyor movement distance measurement sensor 417.

[0319] As described above, the aggregates M are intermittently formed and conveyed on the endless belt 96 while being spaced apart by the aggregate intervals P. Figure 43 The aggregate M of the meat slices m formed in this way is shown in FIG.

[0320] When the aggregate M reaches the transport terminal end (the rear end of the conveyor belt) of the endless belt 96, the controller 400 outputs to the telescopic electric motor driver 436, causing the telescopic electric motor 135 to operate, thereby extending the transport terminal end (the rear end of the conveyor belt) of the endless belt 96 rearward. Consequently, the transport terminal end of the endless belt 96 enters and passes above the rear end of the pallet G1, which is waiting below the receiving surfaces 201 on the left and right sides of the article moving device 200 (STEP 14).

[0321] Then, when the conveying distance (conveyor belt travel distance) of the endless belt 96, as measured by the conveyor belt travel distance measuring sensor 417, reaches the set distance (STEP 15, the point at which the rear end assembly M separates from the conveying terminal), the controller 400 outputs to the telescopic electric motor driver 436, causing the telescopic electric motor 135 to operate in the reverse direction, and the conveying terminal of the endless belt 96 retreats rearward from the tray G1 (STEP 16). The assembly M, having separated from the conveying terminal of the endless belt 96 as described above, is delivered to the receiving surfaces 201 on either side of the article moving device 200 and stored on the tray G1.

[0322] (Second process)

[0323] On the other hand, in STEP 6, if the automatic control switch 406 for the number of slices in parallel is turned off (or is not turned on), the process does not proceed to the automatic setting of the parallel reference value described above, but instead proceeds to the calculation of the parallel spacing (STEP 6). This parallel spacing K is calculated using the following formula based on the manually set parallel length value E, the calculated meat slice height value A, and the manually set number of slices in parallel value F (STEP 17).

[0324] K=(EA) / (F-1)

[0325] Based on the measurement results of the conveyor belt travel distance measuring sensor 417, the endless belt 96 forming the conveyor belt of the transport section 5 is driven a distance equal to the parallel spacing K (STEP 18). Meanwhile, the meat slices m cut and folded from the cutting section 4 are placed one by one on the endless belt 96, and the above-mentioned operation is repeated (STEP 19). The number of slices placed in parallel on the endless belt 96 is determined by the number of reciprocating rotations of the left rod-shaped body rotation angle detection potentiometer 413 or the right rod-shaped body rotation angle detection potentiometer 414. When the number of parallel slices matches the manually set value F for the number of parallel slices, the process proceeds to calculating the conveyor belt travel distance for forming the assembly spacing (STEP 20). The subsequent steps are identical to the first process, and therefore the description thereof is omitted.

[0326] (Step 3)

[0327] Furthermore, in STEP 2, if the automatic slice height setting on / off switch 402 is turned OFF (or is operated), the process bypasses the slice height calculation and transitions to manual setting of the parallel arrangement. Based on the slice height setting value J set by the manual block height setting switch 403, the manually set parallel length value E set by the manual parallel length setting switch 404, and the manually set number of parallel slices F set by the manual parallel number setting switch 405, manual setting of the parallel arrangement is established, and the process transitions to calculation of the parallel spacing (STEP 21). This parallel spacing K is calculated using the following formula based on the manually set parallel length value E, the calculated slice height value A, and the manually set number of parallel slices F, as in STEP 17 (STEP 22).

[0328] K=(EA) / (F-1)

[0329] The subsequent steps are the same as the second process, so the description is omitted.

[0330] (Forming state of aggregate)

[0331] but, Figure 43 exemplifies the state of the aggregates formed as described above. In this example, an aggregate M1 formed by juxtaposing five meat slices m with at least a portion of them overlapping, an aggregate M2 formed by juxtaposing six meat slices m in the same manner, and an aggregate M3 formed by juxtaposing seven meat slices m in the same manner are shown arranged side by side. However, this is for convenience of explanation, and the present invention is not limited to the existence of such aggregates M with different numbers of meat slices on the same endless belt 96.

[0332] However, regarding the assembly M1, five meat slices m1 of length (height) A are arranged side by side at a spacing of K, forming an assembly with a total length of E. Furthermore, regarding the assembly M2, six meat slices m2, which are shorter than the meat slices m1, are arranged side by side at a spacing shorter than K, forming an assembly with a total length of E. Furthermore, regarding the assembly M3, seven meat slices m3, which are shorter than the meat slices m2, are arranged side by side at a spacing shorter than that of the assembly M2, forming an assembly with a total length of E. By changing the number of meat slices and the spacing according to the height of the meat slices m, the total length or weight of the assembly M of the meat slices m can be made uniform.

[0333] That is, Figure 44 As shown, the block of meat MF generally has a predetermined length, with a different height V1 at the front end and a different height V2 at the rear end. The height varies irregularly from the front end to the rear end. Therefore, when cut (sliced) at a constant thickness in the vertical direction, the meat slices have different heights depending on the cut location, and the weight of the cut meat slices is also uneven.

[0334] In contrast, as described above, in addition to controlling the parallel spacing, the number of parallel sheets is also controlled, so that Figure 45 As shown, by making the total weight of the aggregate M relative to the height of the meat block MF close to the deviation width α, the deviation in the total weight of each aggregate M can be reduced.

[0335] (Storage control)

[0336] Then, based on Figures 46 to 48 Flowchart, refer to Figure 49 Here, in a state facing the conveying direction of the conveyor belt 96W, the left side is referred to as "left" and the right side is referred to as "right".

[0337] In addition, if Figure 49 As shown, this control assumes that the distance between the inner ends of the left and right receiving plates 202, 202 (receiving surfaces 201, 201) of the article moving device 200, on which the assemblies M, M are placed, is expanded from a minimum distance P1 to an intermediate distance P2. Furthermore, this intermediate distance P2 is evenly distributed, with a distance of P2 / 2, with the center position of the left and right width of the conveyor belt 96W as a reference. In this state, the center of gravity of the area of the assemblies M, M (approximately equal to the center position of the full width of the assemblies) is aligned with the center position of the left and right width of the pallets G1, G1.

[0338] However, if Figure 46As shown, first, when the start switch 401 is turned on (this operation is omitted from the flowchart), the cutting unit 4, the supply unit 3, the conveyor belt (first conveyor belt) 96W, and the storage unit 6 begin to operate (STEP 1). Accordingly, the block of meat MF fed into the supply unit 3 is cut by the cutting unit 4, and a predetermined number of cut meat slices m are sequentially arranged on the conveyor belt 96W (endless belt 96) to form an aggregate M.

[0339] After the conveyor belt 96W moves by the set amount P for forming an assembly interval, it forms the next assembly M. By continuously executing the above process, an assembly interval equal to P is formed between each assembly M (STEP 2). Furthermore, the tray stop position control on / off switch TSS is turned on to determine whether the tray stop position automatic control is on (valid) (STEP 3).

[0340] If the result of this determination indicates that the automatic control of the tray stop position is on, the cameras CA capture images of the assemblies M, M ("articles" in the claims) being conveyed in the left and right rows. This imaging range includes the entire outline of the assemblies M, M and the left and right ends of the conveyor belt 96W (STEP 4). The center of gravity of the area of the assemblies M is obtained from the captured image data.

[0341] Specifically, the left end of the conveyor belt 96W is used as a reference position, and the distance is calculated using the number of pixels from this reference position. Based on this, the area center of gravity position CL of the left assembly M (the assembly in the left row of the two rows of conveyed assemblies) and the area center of gravity position CR of the right assembly M are determined (STEP 5). These area center of gravity positions are determined by calculating the area inside the outline of the assembly M from the multiple pixel positions that form the outline of the assembly M. Furthermore, the target tray stop position is determined based on the area center of gravity positions CL and CR of the left and right assemblies M and M.

[0342] That is, Figure 49 As shown, when the left-right width of the conveyor belt 96W is set as CW and the distance from the center position of the left-right width of the conveyor belt 96W to the area center of gravity position CL of the assembly M on the left is set as DL, the DL is calculated using the following formula.

[0343] DL=CW / 2-CL

[0344] In addition, when the distance from the center position of the left-right width of the conveyor belt 96W to the area center of gravity position CR of the right-hand assembly M is defined as DR, the DR is calculated using the following formula.

[0345] DR=CR-CW / 2

[0346] Furthermore, when the assembly spacing of the locking plate 317 in the pallet transport device (pallet conveyor) 305 is set to TP, the left and right widths of the pallet G1 are set to TW, the offset distance between the center position of the area center of gravity positions of the left and right assemblies M, M and the initial setting position (stop target initial position) of the pallet G1 is set to ZD, and the manual fine-adjustment correction distance is set to BH, the correction value HL of the stop target position of the pallet G1 on the left is calculated using the following formula.

[0347] HL=TP-(TW / 2+DL+ZD+BH)

[0348] Furthermore, the correction value HR of the stop target position of the right pallet G1 is obtained by the following formula.

[0349] HR=DR+ZD+BH-TW / 2

[0350] Furthermore, assuming that the initial stop position of the left pallet G1 is SL, the target stop position ML of the left pallet G1 is calculated using the following formula.

[0351] ML=SL+HL

[0352] Furthermore, assuming that the initial stop position of the right pallet G1 is SR, the target stop position MR of the right pallet G1 is obtained by the following formula.

[0353] MR=SR+HR

[0354] On the other hand, in the above-mentioned STEP3, when the automatic control of the pallet stop position is not turned on, the process shifts to manual setting of the pallet stop target position, and the stop target position ML of the left pallet G1 and the stop target position MR of the right pallet G1 are set by manual operation (the above is STEP6).

[0355] And, as Figure 47 As shown, the pallet G1 is supplied from the pallet storage unit 303 to the pallet transport device (pallet conveyor, or "second conveyor" in the claims) 305 by the pallet peeling device 304 (STEP 8). Here, the size relationship between the stop target position ML of the left pallet G1 and the stop target position MR of the right pallet G1 is compared (STEP 9).

[0356] If the comparison results in a determination that the target stop position MR of the right pallet G1 is greater, the pallet transport device 305 is driven (STEP 10), and the position of the left pallet G1 is detected, obtaining the left pallet detection position XL (STEP 12). Furthermore, a determination is made as to whether the left pallet detection position XL matches the left pallet target stop position ML (STEP 12). If they match, the tray transport device 305 is stopped (STEP 13).

[0357] Then, the left pallet G1 is raised while being supported by the second transport guide rail 318B (STEP 14). The pallet transport device 305 is driven again (STEP 15), and the position of the right pallet G1 is detected to obtain the right pallet detection position XR. A determination is then made as to whether the right pallet detection position XR coincides with the target stop position MR for the right pallet G1 (STEP 17). If so, the tray transport device 305 is stopped (STEP 18).

[0358] Then, the right pallet G1 is raised while being supported by the third transport guide rail 318C (STEP 19), and the pallet transport device 305 is driven backward in the opposite direction by a set distance (STEP 20). This backward drive of the pallet transport device 305 prevents the pallet G1 from colliding with the locking plate 317 of the pallet transport device 305 when the pallet G1 containing the assembly M is lowered. As described above, if the stop target position MR of the right pallet G1 is determined to be greater than the stop target position ML of the left pallet G1, the left pallet G1 is raised before the right pallet G1.

[0359] On the other hand, if it is determined in STEP 9 that the target stop position MR of the right pallet G1 is smaller than or equal to the target stop position MR, the pallet transport device 305 is driven (STEP 21), the position of the right pallet G1 is detected, and the right pallet detection position XR is obtained (STEP 22). A determination is then made as to whether the right pallet detection position XR matches the target stop position MR (STEP 23). If they match, the tray transport device 305 is stopped (STEP 24).

[0360] Then, the right tray G1 is raised while being supported by the third transport guide rail 318C (STEP 25). The tray transport device 305 is driven again (STEP 26), and the position of the left tray G1 is detected, obtaining the left tray detection position XL (STEP 27). A determination is then made as to whether the left tray detection position XL matches the target stop position ML for the left tray G1 (STEP 28). If they match, the tray transport device 305 is stopped (STEP 29). Then, the left tray G1 is raised while being supported by the second transport guide rail 318B (STEP 30), and the tray transport device 305 is driven backward in the opposite direction by the set distance (STEP 20).

[0361] As described above, when it is determined that the stop target position ML of the left tray G1 is greater than or equal to the stop target position MR of the right tray G1, the right tray G1 rises before the left tray G1. Figure 48 As shown, after the trays G1 and G1 are lifted, the rear end portion (transport terminal portion) of the conveyor belt (first conveyor belt) 96W starts to retreat (STEP 31).

[0362] Then, the article moving device 200 begins expanding the distance between the inner ends of the left and right receiving plates 202 to an intermediate distance P2 (STEP 32). A set time Tm is set at the time when the distance reaches the intermediate distance P2. Consequently, the left-right distance between the articles (assemblies M, M) on the left and right receiving plates 202, 202 increases. This time Tm is set to a small value. After this time Tm has elapsed, the device begins expanding the distance between the inner ends of the left and right receiving plates 202, 202 to a maximum distance P3 (STEP 34). Consequently, the articles (assemblies M, M) on the left and right receiving plates 202, 202 fall onto the left and right trays G1, G1, and are stored.

[0363] Then, a check is performed to determine whether the distance between the inner ends of the left and right receiving plates 202 has reached the maximum distance P3 (STEP 35). If the maximum distance P3 has been reached, the system waits for a set time Tg (STEP 36). When the set time Tg has elapsed, the system begins to continuously reduce the distance between the inner ends of the left and right receiving plates 202 to the minimum distance P1 (STEP 37), and the conveyor belt 96W begins to advance (STEP 38). The above steps are repeated to store items.

[0364] Furthermore, the center of gravity of the area of the items on the receiving plates 202, 202 moved to the second position PS2 and the center of the width of the containers G1, G1 stopped at the corrected transport stop target position are approximately aligned in the transport direction of the tray transport device (second conveyor) 305. Furthermore, in the cutting section 4, the block of meat MF is cut in the lower winding area of the endless belt blade 49 moving from one side to the other, so that the cut meat slices m are pulled in the direction of movement of the endless belt blade 49 and released. Therefore, in this embodiment, the reference position for calculating the distance based on the imaging results of the camera (imaging unit) CA is the end of the conveyor belt 96W on the upstream side of the endless belt blade 49 in the direction of movement. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the end of the conveyor belt 96W on the downstream side of the endless belt blade 49 in the direction of movement may also be used as the reference.

Claims

1. A slicer comprising a supply unit for conveying a block of meat before being cut, a cutting unit for cutting the block of meat conveyed by the supply unit, a conveying unit for conveying meat slices cut from the block of meat by the cutting unit, and a control unit, wherein the slicer is characterized in that a first endless belt for conveying the block of meat provided by the supply unit is divided into a left-side first endless belt and a right-side first endless belt, and the left-side first endless belt and the right-side first endless belt are driven independently, and the block of meat conveyed by the left-side first endless belt and the block of meat conveyed by the right-side first endless belt are cut into pieces by the cutting unit. The conveying section is cut, and is configured to separate the second annular belt for conveying the meat slices possessed by the conveying section into left and right parts to form a left second annular belt and a right second annular belt, and the left second annular belt and the right second annular belt are driven independently, and are configured to perform aggregate formation control through the controller possessed by the control section, and the aggregate formation control is to arrange the multiple meat slices cut by the cutting section in a manner that at least a part of the multiple meat slices cut by the cutting section overlap with each other on the upper parts of the independently driven left second annular belt and the right second annular belt to form an aggregate of meat slices.

2. The slicer according to claim 1, wherein The structure is such that the block meat conveyed by the left first circular belt and the block meat conveyed by the right first circular belt are cut by a cutting portion, and the multiple meat slices cut by the cutting portion are arranged in a manner such that at least a part of them overlap with each other on the upper parts of the independently driven left second circular belt and the right second circular belt, thereby forming a collection of two rows of meat slices.

3. The slicer according to claim 1, wherein: The block of meat is cut at equal intervals by the cutting portion, and the aggregate is formed by a plurality of meat pieces cut at the equal intervals.

4. The slicer according to claim 3 is provided with a spacing changing unit, which automatically changes the spacing of the meat slices arranged according to the length of the meat slices arranged in the arrangement direction on the second annular belt, and forms the total length of each assembly to the set length.

5. The slicer according to claim 4, wherein: The structure is such that the automatic change of the spacing between the meat slices is prohibited until the formation of the same assembly is completed.

6. The slicer according to claim 5 comprises: a measuring unit capable of measuring the thickness or height of the block of meat before being cut; and a length calculation unit capable of calculating the length of the meat slices in the arrangement direction after being cut based on the measurement results of the measuring unit.

7. The slicer according to any one of claims 1 to 6 comprises: a measuring unit capable of measuring the thickness or height of the block of meat before being cut; and a quantity changing unit capable of automatically changing the number of meat slices forming the assembly based on the measurement result of the measuring unit.

8. The slicer according to claim 7, wherein: The structure is such that the number of meat slices forming the assembly is prohibited from being automatically changed until the formation of the same assembly is completed.

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