System for supporting a carcass part of a slaughtered duck

Abstract

A system for supporting a carcass part of a slaughtered duck, wherein the carcass part: is eviscerated, comprises at least a first coracoid, and a second coracoid, comprises a support opening, wherein the system comprises: a support element (1) configured to be arranged inside the carcass part via the support opening, wherein the support element (1) comprises a first coracoid positioning element (2) configured to guide and position the first coracoid while the support element (1) is moved into the carcass part, and a second coracoid positioning element (3) configured to guide and position the second coracoid while the support element (1) is moved into the carcass part.

Description

[0001] SYSTEM FOR SUPPORTING A CARCASS PART OF A SLAUGHTERED DUCK

[0002] The present invention relates to the field of processing slaughtered poultry, in particular ducks. More particularly, the invention relates to supporting a carcass part of a slaughtered duck. While being supported using the invention, the carcass part can e.g. be subjected to one or more processing steps.

[0003] During the processing of slaughtered ducks, often the breast fillet and / or back meat are harvested for human consumption. Conventionally this is done manually, while supporting the slaughtered duck on a simplistic support element. These support elements do not allow for accurate positioning, which is compensated by the accuracy of the operator during manual processing.

[0004] As the processing of slaughtered ducks is automated more and more, it would be desirable to be able to position the carcass part accurately so that processing steps can be performed with high precision by automated processing station / machines. For processing other types of poultry, such as chickens, various positioning and / or supporting systems are known. However, the anatomy of a duck is different from a chicken, which has the implication that systems designed for animals or poultry (in particular chicken) other than duck cannot be applied to duck processing.

[0005] It is an object of the invention to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art, or at least provide an alternative to the prior art. It is in particular an object of the invention to enable accurate positioning of a carcass part of the slaughtered duck on a support element and / or enable accurate processing of a carcass part of the slaughtered duck arranged on a support element.

[0006] One or more objects of the invention are achieved with a system for supporting a carcass part of a slaughtered duck, wherein the carcass part e.g.: is eviscerated, comprises at least a first coracoid, and a second coracoid, comprises a support opening, wherein the system comprises: a support element configured to be arranged inside the carcass part via the support opening, wherein the support element comprises

[0007] • a first coracoid positioning element, e.g. configured to guide and position the first coracoid while the support element is moved into the carcass part, and

[0008] • a second coracoid positioning element, e.g. configured to guide and position the second coracoid while the support element is moved into the carcass part.

[0009] Thus, in embodiments, the invention relates to a system for supporting a carcass part of a slaughtered duck. The duck can e.g. be a Pekin duck. The duck can e.g. be a Barbary or Muscovy duck. The carcass part is eviscerated, meaning that viscera pack and / or several organs have been removed, e.g. the intestines, stomach, lungs, heart, esophagus. The carcass part still comprises tissue such as meat, ligaments, muscles, and several bones, including at least the first coracoid and the second coracoid. Within this context, one of the first and second coracoid is the left coracoid, and the other is the right coracoid. The coracoids correspond to the body part having the Latin name os coracoides. The carcass part will usually still comprise other bones in the vicinity of the coracoid, e.g. at least the humerus, scapula, and the collarbones (clavicles, forming the wishbone), which are connected to each other at the joints of the scapular girdle. The carcass part may furthermore comprise the spine, the breast(bone) (sternum), and the ribs. The carcass part can furthermore be defeathered. The carcass part can furthermore be deskinned.

[0010] The carcass part can e.g. be an eviscerated front halve. The carcass part can e.g. be an eviscerated complete carcass. The carcass part can e.g. be an eviscerated carcass that is beheaded.

[0011] The carcass part comprises a support opening. The support opening can be used to enter a support element into the carcass part. The carcass part can have been subjected to a processing step for making the support opening. The support opening can be in a groin area of the carcass part. Optionally, the support opening is an opening through which the viscera pack has been removed, e.g. the vent.

[0012] The system for support the carcass part comprises a support element. The support element is configured to be arranged inside the carcass part via the support opening. This can be achieved by sliding the support element into the carcass part while the carcass part is held stationary; or by sliding the carcass part onto the support element while the support element is held stationary; or by moving the carcass part and the support element simultaneously is opposite direction. Within this text, the terms “arranging the support element into the carcass part” and “arranging the carcass part on the support element” are used interchangeably, since the effect is achieved by the relative movement between the support element and the carcass part.

[0013] The support element can e.g. be a support cone, e.g. being generally conically shaped. However, as explained below, the support element may comprise various elements / protrusions / recesses deviating from a purely conical shape to achieve the advantageous effects of one or more embodiments described herein.

[0014] In embodiments, the support element comprises a first coracoid positioning element, which may be configured to guide and position the first coracoid while the support element is moved into the carcass part, and a second coracoid positioning element, which may be configured to guide and position the second coracoid while the support element is moved into the carcass part. The first coracoid positioning element may e.g. be configured to engage the first coracoid during the guiding and / or positioning; and the second coracoid positioning element may e.g. be configured to engage the second coracoid during the guiding and / or positioning.

[0015] The first and second coracoid positioning elements thus guide the first and second coracoid, respectively, to a predetermined position or area, where they are positioned. The first and second coracoid bone positioning element can e.g. be configured to come into contact with the first and second coracoid, respectively, while the carcass part is being arranged onto support element. During the further relative movement between the carcass part and the support element, the coracoid positioning elements (e.g. accomplished by their shape), may e.g. maintain said contact, and force a movement / positioning of the respective coracoid.

[0016] The inventors have found that, for a duck carcass in particular, it is advantageous to use the coracoids for positioning the carcass part. Since the carcass part comprises a left and a right coracoid (described herein as the first and second coracoid), their symmetry can be used for correct positioning. The anatomy of the duck is such that the outer end of the support element can be introduced far enough into the carcass part to engage the coracoids, guide them, and position them. Although different types of duck have different anatomies, the inventors found that using the coracoids for positioning has good results for multiple types of ducks.

[0017] Advantageously, this results in a well-defined positioning of the carcass part, which in turn enable more precise processing of the carcass part while being supported by the support element. Since the accurate positioning in achieved during the relative movement between the carcass part and the support element, the being position of the carcass part on the support element is less important. Indeed, an inaccurate position at that moment can automatically be corrected by the first and second coracoid positioning elements during the relative movement.

[0018] Optionally, the first coracoid positioning element is furthermore configured to fix the position the first coracoid; and the second coracoid positioning element is furthermore configured to fix the position of the second coracoid. In this context, “fixing the position” may also be referred to as locking the respective coracoid. This may in particular entail that the first and second coracoid positioning element are configured, when the first and second coracoid, respectively, have been positioned, to provide a counterforce when the respective coracoid is being moved out of said position. Of course, depending on the situation, it may be possible that the respective coracoid can still move or wiggle a bit, or even be moved out of said position when sufficiently large forces are applied.

[0019] In embodiments, the support element comprises an outer end portion configured to be arranged first into the support opening, followed by a recessed portion when seen in longitudinal direction of the support element. The outer end portion optionally has an increasing width when seen in longitudinal direction. The recessed portion has a smaller width than the outer end portion. The first coracoid positioning element comprises a first side of the outer end portion and a first side of the recessed portion; and the second coracoid positioning element comprises a second side of the outer end portion and a second side of the recessed portion. The outer end portion is e.g. configured to guide the first and second coracoid towards the recessed portion. The recessed portion is e.g. configured to position the first and second coracoid. The recessed portion is optionally configured to fix the position of the first and second coracoid. The support element thus comprises on outer end portion followed by a recessed portion. The outer end portion can also be referred to herein as the head of the support element. Optionally the outer end portion and the recessed portion are adjoining.

[0020] In this context, “followed by” is considered when seen in a longitudinal direction. The longitudinal direction is parallel to a longitudinal centre axis of the support element. In this context, “followed by when seen in the longitudinal direction” can be in the direction from a first outer end towards a second outer end of the support element, wherein the first element is configured to be arranged first into the support opening of the carcass part. Optionally, the second outer end is configured to stay outside of the carcass part during use.

[0021] In addition, a width is a dimension in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the support element. The width may e.g. be in a direction which extends, during use, from a left-hand side of the support element to a right-hand side of the support element. The left-hand side is e.g. configured to be arranged at a left-hand side of the carcass part and the right-hand side is e.g. configured to be arranged at a right-hand side of the carcass part. In addition, a length may be a dimension in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the support element. A height may be a dimension in a direction perpendicular to the length and the width. For example, the length may be in a direction which extends, during use, from a breast side of the support element to a back side of the support element, wherein breast side is configured to be arranged towards a breast of the carcass part and the back side is configured to be arranged towards a back of the carcass part.

[0022] Unless explicitly mentioned otherwise, when the terms “longitudinal direction”, “length”, width (direction)”, “height direction” are used herein, they refer to the directions as defined above, even if not being mentioned with respect to the support element (as a whole) specifically.

[0023] The outer end portion has a width that is greater than width of the recessed portion, e.g. at least at the part of the outer end portion closest to the recessed portion. Optionally, also the height of the outer end portion is greater than the height of the recessed portion. The recessed portion is thus smaller than the outer end portion in width and optionally in height. This has the advantageous effect that the coracoids can be positioned into the recessed portion for accurate positioning. In addition, the outer end portion being wider, mokes it hard for the coracoids to move out of the recessed portion. This fixes the coracoids, and as such the carcass part, into the position.

[0024] The outer end portion may further optionally have an increasing width when seen in longitudinal direction. Thus, the further from the first outer end, the greater the width of the outer end portion is. During the relative movement between the support element and the carcass part, the outer end portion is configured to engage the coracoids, and push them outwards (in width direction or left / right direction of the carcass part). This guides the coracoids towards the recessed portion, thereby aiding the positioning of the coracoids.

[0025] In particular, a first side (e.g. left side) of the outer end portion may be configured to guide the first (e.g. left) coracoid to a first side (e.g. left side) of the recessed portion. The first side of the outer end portion and the first side of the recessed portion may as such form (part of) the first coracoid positioning element. Similarly, a second side (e.g. right side) of the outer end portion may be configured to guide the second (e.g. right) coracoid to a second side (e.g. right side) of the recessed portion. The second side of the outer end portion and the second side of the recessed portion may as such form (part of) the second coracoid positioning element.

[0026] The increasing width of the outer end portion furthermore has the advantageous effect that a part of the breast fillet is also pushed outwards. That part of the breast fill is in particular moved relative to the coracoids that are arranged in the recessed portion. This opens the breast fillet at that part, which makes it easier to reach the tissue (such as ligaments and / or tendons) connecting the breast fillet. In this opened position it is easier to harvest to breast fillet efficiently, which may improve the yield.

[0027] Thus, the outer end portion (in particular the side surfaces thereof) may be configured to push (a part of) the breast fillet outwards and / or open (a part of) the breast fillet.

[0028] Optionally, the recessed portion comprises steep narrowing sections (e.g. a first and a second steep narrowing section) adjoining borders of the outer end portion. The width of the recessed portion reduces (when seen in longitudinal direction) in the steep narrowing sections. The steep narrowing sections extend close to parallel to the width direction, e.g. at an angle of less than 25 degrees of the width direction, e.g. less than 15 degrees, e.g. less than 10 degrees. The steep narrowing sections make it difficult for the coracoids to move towards the outer end of the support element once they are in the recessed portion. This improves the fixing of the carcass part in position.

[0029] Optionally, the first and second side of the recessed portion are connected to each other, e.g. on a breast side (or on a back side) of the support element, by a recessed connection part of the recessed portion.

[0030] Optionally, the recessed portion is followed by a middle portion when seen in longitudinal direction, wherein the middle portion has a greater width and optionally a greater height than the recessed portion. Optionally, the recessed portion and the middle portion are adjoining. Optionally, the middle portion is substantially conically shaped. Optionally, the middle portion is configured to be (partially) arranged into the carcass part.

[0031] In embodiments, the support element has breast-side configured to be positioned towards the breast of the carcass, and a back-side configured to be positioned towards the back of the carcass. Thus, the breast-side is closer to the breast of the carcass than the back-side, and the back-side is closer to the back of the carcass than the breast-side.

[0032] In embodiments, a border of the outer end portion and / or the recessed portion extends at an inclination towards the breast side of the support element, when seen in longitudinal direction. The inclination can e.g. be defined by an angle, which is defined as the angle between the direction the border extends in and a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction L. Said angle can e.g. be between 30-60 degrees, e.g. between 40-50 degrees. Optionally, also the steep narrowing section extends at the same angle. This arrangement may be adapted to the angle at which the coracoids extend in the carcass part, aligning the recessed portion and the outer end portion to the anatomy of the duck, allows an accurate positioning without forcing the coracoids too much in unnatural directions. Thus, the recessed portion does not extend perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0033] In these embodiments, the shape of the recessed portion is adapted to the orientation of the coracoid. Indeed, the coracoid also extends at an inclination relative to the breast and / or spine. This aids in positioning the coracoids. In embodiments, the outer end portion is configured to be positioned into the carcass part to: engage the spine on a back-side of the outer end portion; and / or engage the wishbone on the breast-side of the outer end portion; and / or engage the first joint of the scapular girdle (e.g. right scapular girdle joint) on a first side of the outer end portion, and the second joint of the scapular girdle (e.g. left scapular girdle joint) on a second side of the outer end portion. Thus, when the coracoids are positioned (e.g. into the recessed portion), the outer end portion (in particular the side surfaces) engages one or more of the spine, wishbone, and the joints of the scapular girdle. This may further enhance accurate positioning of the carcass part. Optionally, an outer end surface (in longitudinal direction) is free of contact with any part of the carcass part.

[0034] In embodiments, the system further comprises a clamping element configured to clamp a breastplate of the carcass, wherein the clamping element is moveable between a retracted position and a clamping position. The clamping element can e.g. be a hook.

[0035] The clamping element allows to fix the position of the carcass part. In combination with the coracoid positioning elements which may also fix the position, a stable fixed position of the carcass part can be achieved. Furthermore, even if one of both fails to fix the position (e.g. due to malfunctioning of the clamping element (drive mechanism)), it is still prevented that the carcass part is loosened directly.

[0036] The clamping element is arranged towards the breast-side of the support elements. In the clamping position, the clamping element extends out of the support element at the breast-side. The clamping element can e.g. have a curved shape when seen in longitudinal direction. The clamping element can e.g. extend from the outer end portion and / or recessed portion in a direction away from a first outer end surface.

[0037] For example, in the retracted position, the clamping element is arranged within the support element, e.g. in a clamping element opening. For example, in the retracted position, the support element can be arranged into the carcass part, without engagement between the clamping element and the carcass part. For example, in the clamping position, the clamping element is configured to prevent (or at least counteract) the support element from moving out of the carcass part.

[0038] The system can e.g. comprise a drive mechanism for moving the clamping element between the retracted position and / or the clamping position. The drive mechanism can e.g. be configured to pivot the clamping element around a pivot axis, wherein the pivot axis can e.g. extend parallel to the width direction and / or perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the support element. The drive mechanism can e.g. be an actuator. The drive mechanism can e.g. be a follower (e.g. cam follower of follower wheel) following a track, e.g. wherein the support element is configured to move (be conveyed) relative to the track. The track can e.g. extend over a plurality of processing stations.

[0039] The system (e.g. the drive mechanism) can be configured to arrange the clamping element in the retracted position forarranging the carcass part on the support element. The system may further be configured to arrange the clamping element in the clamping position for subjecting the carcass part to one or more processing steps. Optionally, the system is configured to arrange the clamping element in the retracted position again for removing the carcass part from the support element.

[0040] In embodiments, the outer end portion and / or the recessed portion comprises a central clamping element opening for housing the clamping element when the clamping element is in the retracted position. Optionally, the central clamping element opening is arranged in centre of the support element when seen in the width direction. Optionally, the central clamping element opening is parallel to the longitudinal axis. The central clamping element opening allows to retract the clamping element, such that the carcass part can be arranged on the support element without engaging the clamping element.

[0041] In embodiments, the support element comprises a spine groove on the back side, configured to position a spine of the carcass part. The spine groove can e.g. extend in longitudinal direction. The spine groove can e.g. be arranged in the centre of the support element when seen in width direction. The spine groove can e.g. have a decreasing width when seen in longitudinal direction. The spine groove thus becomes narrower as the carcass part is being brought into position. This aids in guiding the spine in position in the spine groove.

[0042] The first and second coracoid positing elements in combination with the spine groove provide a double positioning system, allowing the more accurately position the carcass part. In particular embodiments when also the clamping element is provided, a very accurate positioning and fixing of the carcass part can be achieved. Optionally, the spine groove extends at an angle which implied an increasing height of the support element when seen in longitudinal direction. The spine groove extends at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the support element when seen in longitudinal direction. Said angle can e.g. be between 30-60 degrees.

[0043] In embodiments, the support element further comprises a breast support configured to support to inside of the breast, wherein the breast support has an increasing width when seen in longitudinal direction. Optionally, the breast support may have an increasing width when seen in a height direction. Thus, at the breast-side the width of the breast support is smaller. Optionally, the breast support comprises a rib support configured to support the ribs. The rib support may have a decreased width. The rib support may have a decreasing height when seen in the longitudinal direction (from the first outer to the second outer end). The breast support may be part of a middle section, arranged adjacent to the recessed portion when seen in longitudinal direction.

[0044] In embodiments, the support element further comprises a cleaning groove, e.g. on the breast side. The cleaning groove can e.g. have a large length and height, and small width (compared to the height and length). The cleaning groove enables to clean the support element. Optionally, when the support element also comprises the clamping element opening for the clamping element, the cleaning groove and the clamping element opening may be connected to each other. Optionally, the cleaning groove (optionally together with the clamping element opening) form an opening in the support element extending from the breast side to the back side of the support element. This allows to blow a gas (e.g. air) or liquid (e.g. water, optionally with a cleaning agent) through said opening to push out any dirt or carcass remains in said opening.

[0045] In embodiments, the support element is symmetric (e.g. (at least at the outer end portion, the recessed portion, and optionally the middle portion), in view of the longitudinal centre axis. In particular, a first (e.g. left) side of the support element is symmetric to a second (e.g. right) side of the support element. Since the carcass part is normally also substantially symmetrical, the symmetry of the support elements allows for accurate positioning. In embodiments, the support element comprises second outer end portion arranged between the middle portion and the second outer end. The second outer comprises a connector (e.g. cylindrically shaped) configured to connect the support element to a conveyor system. The connector may be configured to allow to pivot the support element about a pivot axis which extends through perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the support element, e.g. being a longitudinal axis of the connector.

[0046] In embodiments, the support element is configured to be arranged vertically (e.g. with the longitudinal axis extending upwards or downwards) when the carcass part is arranged thereon. In embodiments, the support element is configured to be arranged horizontally (e.g. with the longitudinal axis extending horizontally) when the carcass part is arranged thereon, e.g. with the breast-side facing upwards and the back-side facing downwards. In embodiments, the support element is configured to be arranged tilted (e.g. with the longitudinal axis extending in a direction between vertical and horizontal) when the carcass part is arranged thereon.

[0047] In embodiments, the system further comprising a carcass placing system configured to move the support element into the carcass. For example, the carcass placing system may be configured to arrange the carcass part on the support element, and then provide a force to move the carcass part relative to the support element. The carcass placing system can e.g. comprise a grabber for moving the carcass part. The carcass placing system can e.g. comprise a carcass holder, which may e.g. be configured to tilt the carcass part for moving it towards the support element.

[0048] In embodiments, the support element configured to be arranged in the carcass part in a manual positioning station. For example, an operator may take the carcass part and arrange it on the support element, and then push the carcass part such that it is moved relative to the support element.

[0049] In embodiments, the system further comprises a support element transport system, configured to move the support element through one or more processing stations, wherein e.g. the one or more processing stations comprises a fillet harvesting station. Since the carcass part can be arranged accurately on the support element, the processing steps at the processing stations can be executed accurately. Optionally, the support element is configured to be arranged horizontally (e.g. with the longitudinal axis extending horizontally) at the fillet harvesting station (e.g. during the harvesting of the breast fillet), e.g. with the breast-side facing upwards and the back-side facing downwards.

[0050] The support element transport system may e.g. comprise a transport drive system for moving the support element, which may be any suitable type of drive system. The support element transport system may e.g. be configured to move the support element in an endless loop. Optionally, the support element transport system may be configured to change the orientation (defined as the direction in which the longitudinal axis extends) of the support element, e.g. between two or more of vertical, horizontal, tilted. Optionally, the support element transport system may comprise a follower wheel following a track, wherein deviations of the track cause the support element to change orientation.

[0051] In embodiments, the support element is a support cone. Thus, the support element may have generally a conical shape, although variations thereof as explained herein are possible, e.g. for the recessed portion.

[0052] In embodiments, the support element comprises a cutting groove, wherein the system further comprises a blade configured to be moved into the cutting groove and cut the carcass part in two parts for allowing to remove the carcass part from the support element. For example, if the coracoid positioning elements fix the position of the carcass part too strong to remove the carcass part (e.g. after the processing steps), these embodiments may provide a solution. The cutting groove can e.g. be on the breast-side.

[0053] In embodiments, the first coracoid positioning element and the second coracoid positioning element are configured to remains spaced from the collarbones and / or clavicles of the carcass part, e.g. at least during the guiding and positioning of the first and second coracoid, respectively. The first coracoid positioning element and the second coracoid positioning element are configured to not engage (or come directly into contact with) the collarbones and / or clavicles, e.g. at least during the guiding and positioning of the first and second coracoid, respectively.

[0054] The invention further relates to one or more methods. Although the method can be performed with the system according to the invention; neither the system, nor the method is limited thereto. Features explained herein with reference to the system have the same meaning with respect to the method unless explicitly defined otherwise. Features explained with reference to the system can be applied mutatis mutandis to the method to achieve the similar advantages, and vice versa.

[0055] One or more objects of the invention can be achieved with a method for supporting a carcass part of a slaughtered duck, comprising a step of arranging the carcass part on a support element of a system according to any of the embodiments described herein. Optionally the method further comprises guiding and positioning the first coracoid with a first coracoid positioning element, guiding and positioning the second coracoid with a second coracoid positioning element. Optionally the method further comprises fixing the position of the first coracoid and fixing the position of the second coracoid with a second coracoid positioning element.

[0056] One or more objects of the invention can be achieved with a method for supporting a carcass part of a slaughtered duck, comprising the following steps:

[0057] • arranging the carcass part on a support element,

[0058] • wherein the carcass part is eviscerated, comprises at least a first coracoid and a second coracoid, and comprises a support opening;

[0059] • wherein the support element is arranged into the carcass part via the support opening;

[0060] • guiding and positioning the first coracoid with a first coracoid positioning element, guiding and positioning the second coracoid with a second coracoid positioning element.

[0061] Optionally the method further comprises fixing the position of the first coracoid and fixing the position of the second coracoid with a second coracoid positioning element.

[0062] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are described using the figures. It is to be understood that these figures merely serve as example of how the invention can be implemented and are in no way intended to be construed as limiting for the scope of the invention and the claims. Like features are indicated by like reference numerals along the figures. In the figures:

[0063] Fig lA-fig. I E: schematically illustrate an embodiment of a support element, wherein fig. 1A shows a side view from a second side (left side), fig. I B shows a bottom view from a breast side, fig. 1 C shows a perspective view, fig. 1 D shows a view illustrating a back side, and fig. 1 E illustrates a bottom view showing a second outer end;

[0064] Fig. 2A: schematically illustrates a carcass part of a slaughtered duck being arranged on a support element;

[0065] Fig. 2B: schematically illustrates a carcass part of a slaughtered duck being arranged on the support element, wherein the main meat parts have been omitted for clarity;

[0066] Fig. 2C: schematically illustrates a carcass part of a slaughtered duck;

[0067] Fig. 3a: schematically illustrates the anatomy of a part of a duck;

[0068] Fig. 3b: schematically illustrates in more details the anatomy around the coracoid.

[0069] Fig lA-fig. I D schematically illustrate an embodiment of a support element 1 , wherein fig. 1 A shows a side view from a second side (left side), fig. 1 B shows a bottom view from a breast side, fig. 1 C shows a perspective view, fig. 1 D shows a view illustrating a back side, and fig. 1 E illustrates a bottom view showing a second outer end.

[0070] The support element 1 can be part of a system for supporting a carcass part of slaughtered duck. To illustrate the working principles of the support element 1 , the anatomy of a duck 101 is briefly explained with reference to fig. 3A and 3B.

[0071] In fig. 3a, the duck 101 is partially shown. A head 102 and a neck 103 are shown, which in practice can be removed before the duck 101 is arranged on the support element. Also viscera pack with organs may be removed prior. The duck 101 comprises several bones, which will still be part in the carcass part arranged on the support element. At least the coracoids 105 will be present, and usually also the collarbones (clavicles, wishbone) 105, the sternum 106, and the scapula 108. The anatomy around this part of a duck 101 is different from other types of poultry. The inventors have found that the position the carcass part of a slaughtered duck 101 , it may be particularly advantageous to use the coracoids 105.

[0072] Fig. 3b illustrates how the coracoids 104, the scapula 108, the collarbone 105, and the humerus 107 are connected to each other, by the joints 109 of the scapular girdle. The support element 1 shown in fig. 1 A-1 E con be used for a carcass part of a slaughtered duck. The carcass part can e.g. be front halve or a complete carcass (e.g. being beheaded). The carcass part is usually defeathered and eviscerated. The evisceration can e.g. entail that the viscera pack is removed via a vent in the groin area. The support element will be introduced into the carcass part via a support opening, which may be said vent.

[0073] The support element 1 comprises a first coracoid positioning element 2 and a second coracoid positioning element 3. Each coracoid positioning element 2,3 in the shown embodiment has a shape that allows to guide, position, and fix the first and second coracoid, respectively, when the support element 1 is arranged into the carcass part.

[0074] In this context, it is noted it may be possible to move the support element 1 into the carcass part while keeping the carcass part stationary; or it may be possible to move the carcass part onto the support element 1 while keeping the support element 1 stationary; or any combination of moving both the support element 1 and the carcass part (in different relative directions) may be possible.

[0075] With reference to the shown figures, the “first side” corresponds to a “right side”, being configured to be arranged towards the right-hand side of the carcass part, and the “second side” corresponds to a “left side”, being configured to be arranged towards the left-hand side of the carcass part.

[0076] With reference to the support element 1 , a longitudinal direction L can be defined, being parallel to the longitudinal center axis 4 of the support element 1 . A width direction W extends perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L, extending from the first side to the second side. A height direction H extends perpendicular to both the longitudinal direction L and the width direction , extending from the back side to the breast side. Although these directions L, W, H are defined with reference to the support element 1 , they may also be used herein to define direction or dimensions with reference to other features (or sub-components of the support element 1 ).

[0077] The support element 1 comprises a first outer end 18, which is configured to be arranged first into the carcass part. The longitudinal direction L can in particular be defined extending from the first outer end 18 towards an opposite second outer end of the support element 1. The support element 1 comprises an outer end portion 10 followed by a recessed portion 20. The outer end portion 10 forms a head 10 of the support element 1. The outer end portion 10 has a first side 1 1 and a second side 12. When the support element 1 is arranged into the carcass part, the first side 1 1 will engage the first coracoid and the second side 12 will engage the second coracoid 12. The width (dimension in width direction W) of the outer end portion 10 extends when seen in longitudinal direction L. The coracoids are pushed outwards by the first and second side 1 1 , 12 as the outer end portion 10 is moved deeper into the carcass part. The outer end portion 10 as such guides the coracoids. In addition, the force exerted on the coracoids will increase, forcing the carcass part to center itself onto the support element 1 . Thus, the position of the carcass part becomes more accurate, even it at first the carcass part is not completely aligned with the support element 1 .

[0078] The outer end portion 10 and the recessed portion 20 are adjoining in the shown example. The width of the recessed portion 20 (in width direction W) is smaller than the width of the outer end portion 10, at least at borders 15, 16 of the outer end portion 10. Since the coracoids have been pushed outward by the first and second sides 1 1 , 12 of the outer end portion 10, the coracoids will have the tendency to move back inwards towards their natural position when possible. This will happen once they reach the recessed portion 20. The first coracoid will move against a first side 21 of the recessed portion 20, and the second coracoid will move against a second side 22 of the recessed portion. This results in a well-defined, accurate position of the coracoids, and hence the carcass part. The first side 1 1 of the outer end portion 10 and the first side 21 of the recessed portion 20 form part of the first coracoid positioning element 2. The second side 12 of the outer end portion 10 and the second side 22 of the recessed portion 20 form part of the second coracoid positioning element 3.

[0079] Moreover, because the width of the outer end portion 10 at the borders 15, 16 is larger than the width of the recessed portion 20, the coracoids are prevented from moving back in the direction towards the first outer end 18. As such, the coracoids are also fixed in position. The fixing is improved by steep narrowing sections 25, 26 of the recessed portion 20. The steep narrowing sections extend close to parallel to the width direction, e.g. at an angle of less than 15 degrees of the width direction.

[0080] When the carcass part in positioned onto the support element 1 and the coracoids are positioned, the first side 1 1 and second side 12 of the outer end portion 10 may engage the joints of the sea pular girdle. A breast-side 13 of the outer end portion 10 may engage the wishbone. A back-side of the outer end portion 10 may engage a part of the spine. The first outer end 18 can be freely within the carcass part, e.g. not engaging any predetermined part of the carcass. Adapting the shape to the outer end portion 10 to the anatomy of the duck to achieve such position, improves the accuracy of the carcass part as a whole on the support element 1 .

[0081] Best visible in fig. 1 C, is that the border 16 of the outer end portion 10 extends at an inclination towards the breast side of the support element 1 , when seen in longitudinal direction. The inclination is schematically illustrated in fig. 1 C by an angle 19, which is defined as the angle between the direction the border 16 extends in and a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction L. Said angle 1 can e.g. be between 30- 60 degrees. Since the recessed portion 10 adjoins (said border 16 of) the outer end portion 10, it extends at the same angle 19. Also the steep narrowing section 26 extends at the same angle 19. This arrangement may be adapted to the angle at which the coracoids extend in the carcass part. By aligning the recessed portion 20 and the outer end portion 10 to the anatomy of the duck, allows an accurate positioning without forcing the coracoids too much in unnatural directions.

[0082] Fig. 1 A-1 D illustrate that the system comprises a clamping element 50, which in this case is a hook 50. The hook 50 can be moved between a retracted position (e.g. illustrated in fig. 1 A, I B, and 1 D) and a clamping position (e.g. illustrated in fig. 1 C). When the carcass part is arranged onto the support element 1 , the hook 50 is in the retracted position. The hook 50 will remain in the retracted position until the coracoids are positioned in the recessed portion 20. Then, the hook 50 is moved to the clamping position. In the clamping position, the hook 50 extends away from the recessed portion 20 and outer end portion 10 towards the breast side of the carcass part. The hook 50 clamps the breastplate, thereby preventing the breastplate from moving in a direction towards the outer end 18 of the support element 1 .

[0083] The hook 50 thus provides an additional fixing of the position of the carcass part. In combination with the first and second coracoid positioning elements, a double fixing of the carcass part is provided. This reduces the movement of the carcass part after being positioned and fixed, but also ensures that if one of both fixing system fails, the carcass part still remains in position. The hook 50 comprises a proximate part 51 which extends from the outer end portion 10, which extends approximately parallel to the toe border 16 of the outer end portion. This is followed by a middle portion 52 which is curving, and then a distal part 53 which extends approximately parallel to the longitudinal direction L. This is an advantageous shape to clamp the breastplate of the duck.

[0084] In the retracted position, the hook 50 is arranged in a central hook opening 17. The central hook opening extends through the outer end portion 10 and the recessed portion, as best visible in fig. 1 B. The hook 50 is arranged completely within the support element 1 , such that it does not engages the carcass part while the carcass part is being moved onto the support element 1 . The central hook opening 17 is arranged in a center of the support element 1 , when seen in width direction W.

[0085] The hook 50 can be moved between the retracted position and the clamping position in any suitable way. For example, a drive system (not shown) can comprise an actuator for pivoting the hook 50 about a pivot axis. It is also possible that the drive system comprises a follower wheel connected to the hook 50 via a lever. The follower wheel can follow a guide track or cam track, e.g. while the support element 1 is being moved by a conveyor. As the guide track or cam track changes (e.g. in height or angle), the follower wheel is moved (besides being conveyed in the conveying direction), which causes movement of the lever and in turn movement / pivoting of the hook 50.

[0086] Fig. I D illustrates a back-side of the support element 1. On this back-side, the support element 1 comprises a spine groove 70. The spine groove 70 is configured to engage the spine of the carcass part. When seen in longitudinal direction L, the width of the spine groove 70 decreases. For example, when comparing width 71 and width 72 as indicated in fig. 1 D, the width 71 which is arranged closer to the outer end 18 is larger. This allows to catch the spine and then position it accurately. The positioning of the spine with the spine groove 70 provides a double positioning (combined with the coracoid positioning elements). This improves the accuracy of the positioning of the carcass part.

[0087] When looking in the longitudinal direction L away from the outer end 18, the support element 1 comprises a middle portion 30 after the recessed portion 20. The middle portion 30 has a larger width than the recessed portion 20, and generally becomes wider when seen in longitudinal direction L. The middle portion 30 roughly has a conical shape, and gives the support element 1 overall also roughly a conical shape. However, several deviations from a purely conical shape are present, as explained herein, improving the positioning and the carcass part. The middle portion 30 comprises a breast support 31 which supports the inside of the breast. The spine groove 70 also extends into the middle portion 30.

[0088] The middle portion comprises a cleaning groove 61 . The cleaning groove 61 is an opening that provides access to the inside of the support element 1 , which can be used for cleaning.

[0089] Fig. I E shows an example of the complete support element 1 , also showing the second outer end 5. A second outer end portion 62 is arranged between the middle portion 30 and the second outer end 5. The second outer end portion 62 comprises an opening 63, in which a connector 64 is arranged. The connecter 64 is cylindrically shaped, and allows to connect the support element 1 to a conveyor system. Being cylindrically shaped, allows to pivot the support element 1 about a pivot axis which extends through a longitudinal axis of the connector 64.

[0090] The figures furthermore illustrate that the support element 1 is symmetric (at least at the outer end portion 10, the recessed portion 20, and the middle portion 30), having its longitudinal axis 4 as a symmetry axis. The first side (right side) is symmetric to the second side (left side). Since the carcass part is normally also essentially symmetric, this improves the accuracy of the positioning of the carcass part.

[0091] Fig. 2A schematically illustrates a carcass part 80 of a slaughtered duck. The carcass part is a front halve. A right breast fillet 81 , a breastbone 82, a right coracoid 83, and a right joint 84 joint of the scapular girdle are schematically illustrated. The carcass part 80 is arranged on a support element 1 , which may be embodied as shown in the preceding figures. The outer end portion 10, the recessed portion 20, and the hook 50 are schematically illustrated.

[0092] It can be seen that the hook 50 is in the clamping position, preventing the breast plate (connected to breastbone 82) to move. The coracoid 83 is furthermore arranged in the recessed portion 20. The coracoid 83 is still pushed a bit more outward than its natural position, and the outer end portion 10 may also push the joint 84 joint of the scapular girdle outwards. This causes the breast fillet 81 to be pushed outwards as well, making it easier to open the breast fillet 81 and the reach the tissue connecting the breast fillet 81 . This allows to harvest the breast fillet 81 with a higher yield. In Fig. 2A, the breast fillet 81 has been loosened already.

[0093] Fig. 2B schematically illustrate a carcass part 200 arranged on the support element 1 , but in this case the meat is removed form the carcass part 200 for illustration purposes. Fig. 2C schematically illustrates the carcass part 200 by itself, wherein the support opening 203 is schematically illustrated. It can be seen in these figures that the coracoid 201 is arranged in the recessed portion, and the wishbone 206 (formed by the collarbones is engage the breast side of the outer end portion 10. The joint 207 engage the first and second sides of the outer end portion 10. The sternum 202 engages the breast support, and is clamped by the hook 50.

[0094] Although the figures show the support element 1 on itself, it will be understood that this can be incorporated into a processing line. The carcass 80 can be arranged onto the support element manually or using an automated carcass placing system. The support element 1 can then be conveyed using a conveyor, which may be embodied in any suitable manner. The conveyor may transport the support element 1 by one or more processing stations. Since the carcass part 80 is positioned accurately on the support element, the automated processing stations can perform accurate processing steps on the carcass part. At least one of those processing stations can be a breast fillet harvesting station, which may have an improved yield due to the positioning of the carcass part (as explained above).

[0095] As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention are described herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of the invention, which may be embodied in various ways. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be construed as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art to practice the present invention in various ways in virtually any suitable detailed structure. Not all of the objectives described need be achieved with particular embodiments.

[0096] Furthermore, the terms and expressions used herein are not intended to limit the invention, but to provide an understandable description of the invention. The words “a”, “an”, or "one" used herein mean one or more than one, unless otherwise indicated. The terms "a multiple of", ‘‘a plurality” or "several" mean two or more than two. The words "comprise", "include", "contain” and "have" have an open meaning and do not exclude the presence of additional elements. Reference numerals in the claims should not be construed as limiting the invention.

[0097] The mere fact that certain technical features are described in different dependent claims still allows the possibility that a combination of these technical measures can be used advantageously.

[0098] A single processor or other unit can perform the functions of various components mentioned in the description and claims, e.g. of processing units or control units, or the functionality of a single processing unit or control unit described herein can in practice be distributed over multiple components, optionally physically separated of each other. Any communication between components can be wired or wireless by known methods.

[0099] The actions performed by the control unit can be implemented as a program, for example computer program, software application, or the like. The program can be executed using computer readable instructions. The program may include a subroutine, a function, a procedure, an object method, an object implementation, an executable application, a source code, an object code, a shared library / dynamic load library and / or other set of instructions designed for execution on a computer system.

[0100] A computer program or computer-readable instructions can be stored and / or distributed on a suitable medium, such as an optical storage medium or a solid-state medium supplied with or as part of other hardware, but can also be distributed in other forms, such as via internet or other wired or wireless telecommunication systems.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A system for supporting a carcass part of a slaughtered duck, wherein the carcass part:• is eviscerated,• comprises at least a first coracoid, and a second coracoid,• comprises a support opening, wherein the system comprises: a support element configured to be arranged inside the carcass part via the support opening, wherein the support element comprises• a first coracoid positioning element configured to guide and position the first coracoid while the support element is moved into the carcass part, and• a second coracoid positioning element configured to guide and position the second coracoid while the support element is moved into the carcass part.

2. The system according to claim 1 , wherein the first coracoid positioning element is configured to engage the first coracoid during the guiding and / or positioning; and the second coracoid positioning element is configured to engage the second coracoid during the guiding and / or positioning.

3. The system according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein• the support element comprises an outer end portion configured to be arranged first into the support opening, followed by a recessed portion when seen in longitudinal direction of the support element, wherein• the outer end portion has an increasing width when seen in longitudinal direction;• the recessed portion has a smaller width than the outer end portion;• wherein the first coracoid positioning element comprises a first side of the outer end portion and a first side of the recessed portion; and thesecond coracoid positioning element comprises a second side of the outer end portion and a second side of the recessed portion,• wherein the outer end portion is configured to guide the first and second coracoid towards the recessed portion, and• wherein the recessed portion is configured to position the first and second coracoid.

4. The system according to claim 3, wherein• the support element has breast-side configured to be positioned towards the breast of the carcass, and a back-side configured to be positioned towards the back of the carcass,• wherein a border of the outer end portion and / or the recessed portion extends at an inclination towards the breast side of the support element, when seen in longitudinal direction.

5. The system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the outer end portion is configured to be positioned into the carcass part to engage the spine on a back-side of the outer end portion, the wishbone on the breastside of the outer end portion, the first coracoid joint on a first side of the outer end portion, and the second coracoid joint on a second side of the outer end portion.

6. The system according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a clamping element configured to clamp a breastplate of the carcass, wherein the clamping element is moveable between a retracted position and a clamping position.

7. The system according to the preceding claim, wherein the outer end portion and / or the recessed portion comprises a central clamping element opening for housing the clamping element when the clamping element is in the retracted position.

8. The system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the support element comprises a spine groove on the back side, configured to position a spine of the carcass part.

9. The system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the support element further comprises a breast support configured to support to inside of the breast, wherein the breast support has an increasing width when seen in longitudinal direction.

10. The system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the support element is symmetric in view of the longitudinal centre axis.1 l . The system according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a carcass placing system configured to move the support element into the carcass.

12. The system according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a support element transport system, configured to move the support element through one or more processing stations, wherein e.g. the one or more processing stations comprises a fillet harvesting station.

13. The system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the support element is a support cone.

14. The system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the support element comprises a cutting groove, wherein the system further comprises a blade configured to be moved into the cutting groove and cut the carcass part in two parts for allowing to remove the carcass part from the support element.

15. A method for supporting a carcass part of a slaughtered duck, comprising a step of arranging the carcass part on a support element of a system according to any of the preceding claims.

16. A method for supporting a carcass part of a slaughtered duck, comprising the following steps:• arranging the carcass part on a support element,• wherein the carcass part is eviscerated, comprises at least a first coracoid and a second coracoid, and comprises a support opening;• wherein the support element is arranged into the carcass part via the support opening;• guiding and positioning the first coracoid with a first coracoid positioning element, guiding and positioning the second coracoid with a second coracoid positioning element.

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