A device and a method for peeling hard-boiled eggs.

Abstract

An apparatus (1) for peeling boiled eggs (60) is disclosed. It comprises a peeling section (10) having an egg inlet (601) and an egg outlet (602), and an egg transport direction (T) extending from the egg inlet (601) to the egg outlet (602). The peeling section comprises at least two elongated peeling elements (11) each extending along a respective longitudinal axis and being rotatable about the respective longitudinal axis and at least one elongated pushing element (12) arranged at a distance from the elongated peeling elements. An egg contact surface (121, 127) of the elongated pushing element (12) is angled in relation to egg contact surfaces (111) of the elongated peeling elements (11) so that the distance between the egg contact surfaces is bigger at the egg inlet (601) than at the egg outlet (602). A method for peeling eggs is also disclosed.

Description

1 / 23 A device and a method for peeling hard-boiled eggs. Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus for peeling hard-boiled eggs, each having an eggshell, wherein said apparatus comprises a peeling section having an egg inlet and an egg outlet, and wherein an egg transport direction of the apparatus extends from the egg inlet to the egg outlet, wherein the peeling section comprises: at least two elongated peeling elements, each extending along a respective longitudinal geometric axis and at least one of them being rotatable about the respective longitudinal geometric axis, wherein the at least two elongated peeling elements are arranged so that their respective longitudinal geometric axis extends in the same direction as the egg transport direction, wherein the two elongated peeling elements are configured to support eggs traveling in the egg transport direction and to remove the eggshells from the eggs,and wherein each of the two elongated peeling elements has a contact surface with the egg; and at least one elongated pushing element with a geometric axis extending in the same direction as the direction of egg transportation and arranged at a distance from the elongated peeling elements measured perpendicularly to the longitudinal geometric axes of the elongated peeling elements, said elongated pushing element having a contact surface with the egg. Background

[0002] This apparatus, which provides automatic egg peeling on an industrial scale and is capable of peeling up to 20,000 eggs / hour, is known from document TWM555648. In addition to the peeling section, this apparatus comprises a cracking section for cracking the eggshells before they enter the peeling section. Petition 870250084603, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, p. 8 / 84 2 / 23 Cracking the shells makes it easier to peel the eggs without breaking them.

[0003] A limitation of the apparatus described in document TWM555648 and in many other prior art apparatuses is that, due to natural variation in egg size, egg shape and / or eggshell properties such as thickness, some eggs are not peeled completely and others are broken. In particular, peeling soft-boiled eggs has caused problems. Summary of the invention

[0004] Therefore, the object of the invention is to provide an improved apparatus for peeling eggs and to provide an improved method for peeling boiled eggs, in which the risk of breaking the eggs is reduced.

[0005] In a first aspect of the invention, this and other objectives are achieved with an apparatus as mentioned in the introduction, wherein the egg contact surface of the elongated push element is angled relative to the egg contact surfaces of the elongated peeling elements, such that the first shortest distance between the egg contact surface of the elongated push element and the egg contact surfaces of the elongated peeling elements measured perpendicular to the longitudinal geometric axes of the elongated peeling elements at the egg inlet is greater than the second shortest distance between the egg contact surface of the elongated push element and the egg contact surfaces of the elongated peeling elements measured perpendicular to the longitudinal geometric axes of the elongated peeling elements at the egg outlet.

[0006] By angling at least the egg contact surface of the elongated push element relative to the egg contact surface of the elongated peeling elements, the elongated push element and the elongated peeling elements together form a funnel, which narrows towards the egg outlet. Peeling of large eggs begins at the start of the peeling section, while small eggs may Petition 870250084603, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, p. 9 / 84 3 / 23 do not come into contact with the elongated push element until the end of the peeling section, so that they are peeled closer to the egg outlet. Even if small eggs are in contact with the elongated push element at the beginning of the peeling section, the pressure applied to them by the elongated push element at the egg inlet will be less than that applied to large eggs. Large eggs will not break when entering the narrowest part of the funnel at the egg outlet, as they have already been peeled. Cooked egg white is smoother than eggshell, particularly if wet, and consequently has less friction with the surfaces in contact with the egg. Furthermore, since the egg white and yolk of a cooked egg are considerably more elastic than the eggshell, a peeled egg can yield better to pressure in the narrow part of the funnel than an unpeeled egg.The difference in elasticity between the eggshell and the egg contents, that is, the egg white and the egg yolk, is particularly pronounced in soft-boiled eggs, which consequently are at greater risk of breaking during peeling. Another important factor in egg breakage is the attachment of the egg white to the eggshell membrane. When at least part of the eggshell is removed, the eggshell membrane is broken, and the force applied to the egg can be distributed more evenly than when the eggshell is merely cracked.

[0007] The hardness of eggshells varies, for example, due to differences in eggshell thickness or differences in density or structure, which may result from the eggs coming from different breeds of chickens or the chickens being fed differently. This can result in some eggs being more difficult to peel than others, even if they are the same size. Gradually increasing the force applied to the peeling section results in peeling being initiated using the least force necessary, which in turn results in a reduced risk of egg breakage. Petition 870250084603, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, p. 10 / 84 4 / 23

[0008] To further facilitate peeling, the apparatus preferably comprises a cracking section configured to crack the eggshells before they enter the peeling section. The cracking section, which is located before the egg inlet, may be located in continuation of the peeling section when viewed in the direction of egg transport, but may also be located above, below and / or beside the peeling section to make the apparatus compact.

[0009] Note that although the elongated push element and elongated peeling elements are primarily described as continuous elements extending virtually the entire length of the peeling section, i.e., from egg inlet to egg outlet, it is within the scope of the invention to use elongated push elements and / or elongated peeling elements composed of two or more separate members. As an example, a plurality of separate push members may be arranged in continuation of one another to function as an elongated push element, possibly being interconnected, possibly being actuatable independently of one another.

[0010] In one embodiment, the elongated push element is placed at a vertical distance of 30-70 mm, preferably 40-50 mm, above the elongated peeling elements measured at the egg inlet and measured from the egg contact surface to the egg contact surface.

[0011] Currently, it is considered advantageous for the distance between the egg contact surfaces of the elongated push element and the elongated peeling elements to decrease with a constant gradient, but it is also possible to have a relatively low angle near the entrance and a steeper angle towards the end of the peeling section, near the exit, or vice versa. A low angle at the beginning means that the initial peeling is relatively careful, and a subsequent steeper angle will ensure that even the smallest eggs are peeled, while larger eggs will only be subject to a Petition 870250084603, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, page 11 / 84 5 / 23 high pressure over a relatively short distance.

[0012] The angulation of the egg contact surfaces relative to each other can be provided in several ways, including manufacturing the elongated push element with a conical shape, while the elongated peeling elements are circular cylindrical. In another embodiment, which is presently considered advantageous, the longitudinal geometric axis of the elongated push element is angled relative to the longitudinal geometric axes of the elongated peeling elements. This allows both the elongated push element and the elongated peeling elements to have the overall shape of a circular cylinder, which, in turn, means that the mutual angulation can be altered simply by changing the angle(s) of one or more of the longitudinal geometric axes.

[0013] Note that references to the longitudinal geometric axes of the elongated peeling elements and the elongated pushing element extending in the same direction as the transportation direction indicate that they extend substantially parallel to the egg transportation direction, but not necessarily perfectly parallel, as one or more of them may be slightly angled to achieve mutual angulation of the egg contact surfaces.

[0014] If the egg-peeling elements are inclined relative to a horizontal level, the eggs can move forward in the egg-transportation direction only under the influence of gravity. In one embodiment, however, the apparatus comprises a carrier device for moving the eggs in the egg-transportation direction, said carrier device comprising a plurality of transport elements extending transversely to the egg-transportation direction and between the elongated push element and the elongated peeling elements. The carrier device is configured to move the transport elements in the egg-transportation direction, and the transport elements are configured to engage with the eggs and carry them in the direction of Petition 870250084603, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, p. 12 / 84 6 / 23 Egg transportation. The movement of the transport elements can, for example, be achieved by the transport elements being connected to a conveyor, such as a belt or a chain conveyor, which extends along the elongated peeling elements.

[0015] One advantage of using a carrier device with transport elements is that the eggs can be moved in the egg transport direction at a controlled speed, allowing for optimized peeling by keeping the eggs on the elongated peeling elements only for the time necessary to achieve satisfactory peeling. This can further contribute to a reduced risk of egg breakage, as unnecessary physical interaction with the eggs is reduced. A reduction in unnecessary physical interaction can also lead to better egg-based product quality, as the risk of damage to the egg white of already peeled eggs is reduced.

[0016] Another advantage of using a carrier device with transport elements is that the transport elements will prevent the eggs from moving backward, opposite to the egg transport direction.Due to the funnel shape of the space between the elongated pushing element and the elongated peeling elements, pressure on an egg in a direction perpendicular to the egg transport direction can result in the egg sliding backward toward the egg inlet. This effect is particularly pronounced when the elongated pushing element and the elongated peeling elements are all of a continuous design without projections. Transport elements that extend across the egg transport direction will limit such backward movement.

[0017] In one embodiment, the transport elements form compartments between each other, each compartment being configured to accommodate a single egg. The use of such compartments allows the eggs to be peeled individually without interference from other eggs, which could, for example, result in the eggs not being able to roll freely on the elongated peeling elements or the shells of other eggs. Petition 870250084603, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, page 13 / 84 7 / 23 sticking to the shells and preventing proper contact with the elongated peeling elements. However, it is also possible to use larger compartments configured to accommodate, for example, two, three or more eggs.

[0018] In one embodiment, the elongated push element has protrusions spaced apart from each other along the geometric axis of the elongated push element. The protrusions are configured to interact with the eggs and push them towards the egg-peeling elements and may contribute to breaking the eggshells. The protrusions may also push the eggs along the egg transportation direction, thereby contributing to moving them forward. It may even be possible to move the eggs solely by means of the elongated push element, so that a separate carrier device is not required.

[0019] Such protrusions are included in the measurement of distances between the egg contact surface of the elongated push element and the egg contact surfaces of the elongated peeling elements, provided that these protrusions contribute to the peeling process.

[0020] The protrusions may vary in size along the length of the elongated push element, for example, being larger at the egg inlet than at the egg outlet, creating or contributing to the creation of the funnel.

[0021] If the space between the protrusions is larger than the size of an egg, the eggs may be impacted alternately by the elongated pushing element. This can facilitate peeling, as the eggs are first pushed against the elongated peeling elements, then released, then pushed again, and so on. This can result in a section of the eggshell being pressed firmly against the egg peeling elements during each push, possibly also cracking the eggshell and then peeling it off, until no eggshell remains. Note that due to the rotation of the elongated peeling element(s) combined with the forward movement of the Petition 870250084603, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, page 14 / 84 8 / 23 eggs in the direction of egg transportation, the eggs will usually also be rolling, which will cause different sides of the eggs to face the elongated push element at different times.

[0022] The protrusions on the elongated push element can, for example, be formed by a spiral member wrapped around the geometric axis of the elongated push element, and the elongated push element can then be advantageously configured to rotate around its longitudinal geometric axis. The spiral member can be an integral part of a main body of the elongated push element or applied as a separate member, such as, for example, a strip, rod or tube made of an elastic polymer, such as polyurethane. Elasticity can be advantageous as it can provide a relatively gentle push on the eggs. If using a tube, it can be filled with air or another fluid, and the pressure applied by the elongated push element can then be adjusted by adjusting the pressure inside the tube.

[0023] If the elongated push element with a spiral member is rotated around its geometric axis, the positions of the protrusions will change during operation. If the elongated push element is not rotating, the eggs will pass under the protrusions, being pushed against them by the forward movement in the egg transport direction, and in this case it is particularly advantageous to provide a carrier device that forces the eggs forward. This also applies to embodiments where the stationary protrusions are formed by means other than a spiral member.

[0024] The protrusions can be spaced along the geometric axis of the elongated thrust element with variable mutual distances. The variable mutual distance of the protrusions can, for example, be configured to impact and push the eggs from various angles and / or with variable intervals. In one embodiment, the protrusions are closer to each other in the center of the elongated thrust element than at the ends, more Petition 870250084603, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, p. 15 / 84 9 / 23 close to the egg entry and egg exit points. In another version, the distance gradually decreases towards the egg exit.

[0025] In one embodiment, the position of the elongated push element relative to the elongated peeling elements is adjustable, thereby allowing the repositioning of the elongated push element and the elongated peeling elements in a horizontal or vertical direction, or both. One advantage of being able to adjust the mutual position of the elongated push element and the elongated peeling element is that it allows adjusting the position in which the eggs come into contact with the elongated push element, thereby improving the peeling of eggs of varying sizes. Another advantage is that it is possible to make a general adaptation for processing smaller or larger eggs.

[0026] In one embodiment, the angle of the longitudinal geometric axis of the elongated pushing element refers to at least one of the longitudinal geometric axes of the elongated peeling elements and is adjustable, preferably within the range of 0.1 - 15 degrees, 0.1 - 5, more preferably within the range of 0.2 - 0.5 degrees, both in a horizontal and a vertical plane. This angle is configured to facilitate the peeling of eggs that vary in size and in both hard-boiled and soft-boiled states. The advantage of having the possibility of altering the mutual angle is that the same apparatus can be arranged in different configurations for processing different types or sizes of eggs. For example, if the apparatus has been used to peel hard-boiled eggs and is subsequently used to peel soft-boiled eggs, the mutual angle can be reduced.

[0027] In one embodiment, the elongated peeling elements are placed with a space between them measured perpendicular to the longitudinal geometric axes of the elongated peeling elements. This will allow the eggshell to pass between them. If the elongated peeling elements are configured to rotate in directions Petition 870250084603, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, p. 16 / 84 10 / 23 opposite, one towards the other on the sides facing the elongated push element, the eggshell can then be pulled inwards towards the gap and down between the two elongated peeling elements. An eggshell receptacle can be provided below the elongated peeling elements to receive the eggshells.

[0028] Currently, it is considered advantageous for the gap between the elongated peeling elements to be 0 - 2 mm, approximately 0.5 mm, as this allows for quick removal of the eggshell with a low risk of pinching the peeled eggs.

[0029] Rotating the elongated peeling elements in opposite directions may have the added advantage that the eggs are pushed inward toward the space between the elongated peeling elements, thereby reducing the risk of the eggs falling off the elongated peeling elements.

[0030] In one embodiment, the elongated peeling elements, which are preferably circular cylindrical, are placed in the same horizontal plane. This can reduce the risk of eggs falling off the elongated peeling elements, as they form a cradle between them. However, it is also possible for a first elongated peeling element to be located higher than a second elongated peeling element, if the elongated push element is located on the opposite side of the second elongated peeling element, such that the eggs are prevented from falling off the elongated peeling elements. This can result in the eggs being kept in particularly good contact with the second elongated peeling element and / or with the elongated push element under the influence of gravity, thereby improving peeling.

[0031] In another exemplary embodiment, at least the elongated peeling elements are inclined relative to the direction of transportation, for example, with an upward inclination from the inlet. Petition 870250084603, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, p. 17 / 84 11 / 23 of the eggs are directed towards the egg outlet. This can help keep the eggs in contact with the elongated peeling elements and / or the transport elements of the carrier device and can further facilitate integration with other devices. The downward tilt can contribute to the forward movement of the eggs under the influence of gravity.

[0032] In one embodiment, the elongated peeling elements are provided with a profile, coating or sleeve that promotes friction, configured to provide the elongated peeling elements with a suitable surface for pulling the eggshell from the eggs. The coating or sleeve may, for example, be made of a polymer and allow the main body of the elongated peeling elements to be made of a different material with other desired properties, such as stainless steel, which is strong and dimensionally stable.

[0033] A coating or sleeve can promote the cleaning of elongated peeling elements, and a sleeve can be removable so that it can be replaced when worn or to alter the surface properties to adapt to a different type of eggs. Elongated peeling elements and / or elongated push element can also be replaced in their entirety.

[0034] In one embodiment, the elongated peeling elements and the elongated pushing element are controlled by separate actuators, such as motors that rotate them. If the apparatus comprises a carrier device, a separate actuator may also be provided for this. This allows the individual components to be operated independently, for example at different speeds, in a technically simple manner, and if some parts need to be replaced, this can be done without affecting the other components of the apparatus.

[0035] A second aspect of the invention relates to a method for peeling boiled eggs, in which the eggs, each having an eggshell, enter a peeling section of a peeling apparatus. Petition 870250084603, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, p. 18 / 84 12 / 23 by means of an egg inlet and exit the peeling section by means of an egg outlet, wherein said eggs move in an egg transportation direction that extends from the egg inlet to the egg outlet, said method further comprising: arrange the eggs in at least two elongated peeling elements, wherein each of the elongated peeling elements extends along a respective geometric axis, wherein the two elongated peeling elements are arranged so that their respective longitudinal geometric axes extend in the same direction as the direction of egg transportation, and wherein each of the two elongated peeling elements has a contact surface with the egg, rotate at least one of the elongated peeling elements around its geometric axis, thereby removing the eggshells from the eggs; pushing the eggs towards the elongated peeling elements using at least one elongated pushing element having an egg contact surface and a geometric axis, wherein the elongated pushing element is arranged so that its longitudinal geometric axis extends in the same direction as the egg transportation direction, and wherein the elongated pushing element is arranged at a distance from the elongated peeling elements measured perpendicularly to the longitudinal geometric axes of the elongated peeling elements; characterized by the fact that the push on the eggs resulting from the use of the elongated push element increases as the eggs move in the egg transport direction, due to the egg contact surface of the elongated push element being angled relative to the egg contact surfaces of the elongated peeling elements, such that the first shorter distance between the egg contact surface of the elongated push element and the egg contact surfaces of the peeling elements Petition 870250084603, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, page 19 / 84 13 / 23 elongated, measured perpendicularly to the longitudinal geometric axes at the egg inlet, is greater than the second smallest distance between the egg contact surface of the elongated push element and the egg contact surfaces of the elongated peeling elements, measured perpendicularly to the longitudinal geometric axes of the elongated peeling elements at the egg outlet.

[0036] As described above with reference to the first aspect of the invention, one of the advantages of the invention is that this method allows a gradual increase in the push on the eggs as they move in the egg transport direction. This is done by the fact that the elongated push element is positioned at an angle and above the two elongated peeling elements, where the distance between them is greater at the egg inlet than at the egg outlet.

[0037] The advantages and embodiments described in relation to the first aspect of the inventive concept apply mutatis mutandis to the second aspect. For example, the possibility of altering the mutual angulation of the elongated peeling elements and the elongated push element also applies to the second aspect of the invention.

[0038] Those skilled in the art will realize that the present invention is not limited to the preferred embodiments described above. In contrast, many modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the appended claims.

[0039] Additionally, variations in the disclosed embodiments can be understood and effected by a person skilled in the practice of the claimed invention, from a study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims. In the claims, the word “comprising” does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite articles “a” or “an” do not exclude a plurality. The mere fact that certain features are cited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these features cannot be used advantageously. Petition 870250084603, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, p. 20 / 84 14 / 23 Brief description of the Drawings

[0040] The present invention will be described in more detail by referring to the attached schematic drawing showing embodiment(s) of the invention.

[0041] Fig. 1 is a schematic side view of an egg-peeling device;

[0042] Fig. 2 corresponds to Fig. 1, but shows a different arrangement,

[0043] Fig. 3 corresponds to Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, but shows a different arrangement,

[0044] Fig. 4 is a perspective view of an egg-peeling device,

[0045] Fig. 5 is a perspective view of parts of the apparatus in Fig. 4;

[0046] Fig. 6 corresponds to Fig. 5, but with the parts removed;

[0047] Fig. 7 is a perspective view of a stripping section corresponding to that marked as VII in Fig. 6,

[0048] Fig. 8 is another perspective view of the parts of the apparatus shown in Fig. 6;

[0049] Fig. 9 is a side view of the components of the stripping section of the apparatus in Figs. 4-8;

[0050] Fig. 10 is a top view of the peeling section shown in Fig. 9; and

[0051] Fig. 11 is a front view of the peeling section shown in Fig. 9. Description of the modality

[0052] In the figures, the sizes of the components and regions may be exaggerated for illustrative purposes and thus aim to illustrate the general structures of the embodiments of the present invention. Similar reference numbers refer to similar elements, even if they are not identical.

[0053] With reference initially to Fig. 1, an apparatus 1 for peeling boiled eggs is shown. The apparatus comprises a peeling section 10 for peeling the eggshell from the eggs and a carrier device 20 for Petition 870250084603, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, p. 21 / 84 15 / 23 transporting the eggs through the apparatus. In the embodiment shown, the apparatus further comprises a cracking section 30 for cracking the eggshells before peeling, but it should be understood that in some embodiments, satisfactory peeling can be obtained without a cracking section. Furthermore, the apparatus shown comprises an eggshell receptacle 40 disposed under the peeling section for receiving the eggshells from the peeled eggs.

[0054] In operation, the eggs move through the apparatus 1 in an egg transport direction T, entering the peeling section 10 at an egg inlet 601 and exiting the peeling section at an egg outlet 602.

[0055] The crack section 30 comprises a set of crack rollers 31 over which the eggs move and an upper retainer 32 which prevents the eggs from being ejected from the crack rollers. Such crack sections are well known to those skilled in the art and will therefore not be described in further detail.

[0056] The peeling section 10 comprises two elongated peeling elements 11 arranged side by side, so that only one is visible in Fig. 1, and an elongated push element 12. The two elongated peeling elements have a respective longitudinal geometric axis L1 and the elongated push element has a longitudinal geometric axis L2. The geometric axes L1 and L2 extend in the same general direction as the egg transport direction T, and the geometric axes L1 are parallel to each other but slightly angled with respect to the longitudinal geometric axis L2. This means that the first shortest distance D1 between the elongated push element 12 and the elongated peeling elements 11 measured perpendicular to the longitudinal geometric axes L1 of the elongated peeling elements at the egg inlet 601, is greater than the second shortest distance D2 at the egg outlet 602.In other words, the space 14 available for the eggs between the elongated peeling elements 11 and. Petition 870250084603, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, p. 22 / 84 16 / 23 the elongated thrust element 12 is funnel-shaped, gradually becoming narrower towards the egg outlet 602.

[0057] The two elongated peeling elements 11 are rotatable about the longitudinal geometric axes L1 and are configured to support the eggs moving in the egg transport direction T and to remove the eggshells. The elongated push element 12 is configured to push the eggs against the elongated peeling elements 11 to facilitate peeling. In some embodiments, the elongated push element only ensures that the eggs are prevented from ricocheting off the elongated peeling elements; in others, it exerts pressure on the eggs, pressing them against the elongated peeling elements, either constantly or intermittently.

[0058] The conveyor device 20 shown in Fig. 1 is a conveyor belt in which a belt 21 is guided on wheels 22, one of which is connected to a drive motor to propel the belt.

[0059] Alternative embodiments of an apparatus 1 for peeling boiled eggs are shown in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3. Only the differences with respect to the embodiment in Fig. 1 will be described.

[0060] In Fig. 2, the elongated push element 12 is conical instead of cylindrical, as in Fig. 1, and the inclination of the egg contact surface 121 relative to the longitudinal geometric axis L2 results in a funnel-shaped space 14 between the elongated push element 12 and the elongated peeling elements 11, although their longitudinal geometric axes L1 and L2 are parallel.

[0061] In Fig. 3, the elongated push element 12 is composed of three separate members 12a, 12b, 12c, each of them arranged horizontally, but together they form an inclined longitudinal geometric axis L2 and a stepped egg contact surface 121, forming a funnel-shaped space 14 above the elongated peeling elements 11.

[0062] Another type of appliance 1 for peeling eggs is Petition 870250084603, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, p. 23 / 84 17 / 23 shown in Figs. 4-8. Although this embodiment is considerably more complex, it comprises the same elements described with reference to Fig. 1, namely, a cracking section 30 and a peeling section 10 arranged in continuation of each other in the egg transport direction T and an eggshell receptacle 40 disposed under the peeling section. In addition, this apparatus comprises a water outlet 80 for wetting the eggs and a water supply system 81, which is preferably equipped to recycle the water. The application of water can, in combination with the surface properties of the elongated peeling elements 11, be used to adjust the friction between the peeling elements 11 and the eggshells. Water can also be used to rinse the eggs and remove smaller fragments of eggshell.

[0063] In Fig. 5, the crack section 30, the peeling section 10 and the water outlet 80 of the apparatus of Fig. 4 are shown together with the apparatus frame 15 and a carrier device 20 for transporting the eggs through the apparatus. The frame 15 and the carrier device 20 are not visible in Fig. 4 due to the presence of cover parts 16, which are fixed to the bushings 17 of the frame 15.

[0064] In Fig. 6 and Fig. 8, the water outlet 80 and the frame 15 have been removed to improve visibility of the crack section 30, the peeling section 10 and the carrier device 20.

[0065] As also described in Fig. 1, the conveyor device 20 comprises a conveyor belt, which here comprises two belts 21, one on each side of the device. The belts are guided by wheels 22 and guide rails 25 and driven by a drive motor 54. Although the wheels 22 and guide rails 25 are slightly different from the wheel in Fig. 1, resulting in a slightly different path for the belts 21, the function is the same.

[0066] Other motors 51, 52, 53 are provided to rotate the elongated peeling elements 11, the elongated pushing element 12 and the cracking rollers 31, respectively. Petition 870250084603, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, p. 24 / 84 18 / 23

[0067] The conveyor device 20 seen in Figs. 5-8 further comprises a series of rod-shaped conveying elements 23 extending transversely to the egg conveying direction T between the elongated pushing element 12 and the elongated peeling elements 11. In Figs. 5, 6 and 8, most of the conveying elements 23 have been removed to allow other components to be seen more clearly, but the arrangement of the conveying elements is shown in detail in Figure 7, showing the section marked as VII in Fig. 6. In this exemplary embodiment, the conveying elements are fixed to the two belts 21, but other means of conveying, including, for example, a single belt or one or more chain conveyors, may also be employed.The belts 21 drive the transport elements 23 in the transport direction T, and the transport elements, in turn, push the eggs 60 forward over the peeling elements 11. Only a few eggs and a few transport elements are shown in Figs. 5 and 6 and in Fig. 8, but it should be understood that the transport elements 23 are evenly distributed throughout the length of the belts 21, so that compartments of uniform size 24 are formed between the transport elements. In this embodiment, the size of the compartments 24 corresponds to the size of an egg, but it is possible to have larger compartments.

[0068] As can be seen in Fig. 7 and Fig. 11, the embodiments of the transport elements 23 are steel rods 231 provided with a thickening 232 in the center, where they come into contact with the eggs. The thickening reduces the risk of the eggs getting trapped between the transport element and the egg peeling elements 10. A similar thickening could also be obtained by providing a sleeve to the rods, such as a polymer sleeve, and other embodiments are also possible, provided they are capable of transporting the eggs safely.

[0069] As can also be seen in Figs. 5, 6 and 8, the elongated push element 12 is mounted on supports 71 and 72, allowing the Petition 870250084603, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, p. 25 / 84 19 / 23 The position of the elongated push element relative to the elongated peeling elements 11 is adjusted. In the embodiment shown, this is achieved by the ends 122, 123 of the elongated push element 12, which are provided with supports 711, 721 mounted on rods 74 so as to allow horizontal displacement. It is also within the scope of the invention to allow vertical displacement of one or both ends 122, 123 of the elongated push element 12 by mounting one or both rods 74 so that it is / are movable in a vertical direction. The rods 74 are connected to the apparatus frame 15 by mechanical connections, which may be movable, extendable and retractable or releaseable to allow repositioning of the rods. Adjusting the position of the elongated push element 12 relative to the elongated peeling elements 11 can be used to adjust the mutual distances and the relative angle.

[0070] When moving the end 123 of the elongated push element 12 located at the egg outlet 602, it may be necessary to shorten or extend the motor belt 521 or move the entire motor.

[0071] Returning now also to Fig. 9 and Fig. 10, which show only the components of the peeling section 10, the elongated push element 12 is angled relative to the elongated peeling elements 11 in both the vertical and horizontal planes, as indicated by the angles A1 and A2, which refer to them. This is also seen in Fig. 11, which is a view of the egg inlet 601 towards the egg outlet 602. Here, the egg contact surfaces 111 of the elongated peeling elements 11 are visible due to the vertical angle, and the egg contact surface 121 of the elongated push element 12 is visible due to the horizontal angulation. The elongated peeling elements 11 are here positioned in the same horizontal plane H, but this need not be the case.

[0072] In this embodiment, the elongated peeling elements 11 are circular cylindrical and may be provided with a surface covering suitable for removing the shell from eggs 60, but other embodiments are Petition 870250084603, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, page 26 / 84 20 / 23 possible. The elongated peeling elements 11 are well known to those skilled in the art and will therefore not be described in further detail.

[0073] In the embodiments of Figs. 5-11, the elongated push element 12 has protrusions 120 spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal geometric axis L2. The elongated push element 12 is here configured to rotate about its longitudinal geometric axis L2, and the protrusions 120 are formed by a spiral member 124 wound around the longitudinal geometric axis L2 of the elongated push element 12. In operation, this means that the positions of the protrusions 120 that push the eggs 60 towards the elongated peeling elements 11, i.e., the active parts of the spiral member 124, will move along the longitudinal geometric axis L2. In addition to the egg contact surface 121 formed by the cylindrical rod that forms the main body of the egg pusher element 12, this embodiment includes an egg contact surface 127 formed by the spiral member.

[0074] When the protuberances 120 are formed by a spiral member 124, their movement can contribute to moving the eggs forward and may even make the carrier device 20 superfluous.

[0075] In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the spiral member may have alternative dimensions, so that the spiral member is formed by many smaller protrusions distant from each other, or protrusions that do not form a spiral may be used.

[0076] With the presence of protrusions 120 arranged at a distance from each other, as shown in Figs. 5-10, the eggs 60 moving between the elongated pushing element 12 and the elongated peeling elements 11 will encounter two states: In one state, the egg will be under a protrusion, which pushes it and creates one or more points of impact on the eggshell, and in another state, it will be located between the protrusions 120 and will not be subjected to any pushing or only to a reduced pushing. This intermittent pressure against the peeling elements Petition 870250084603, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, p. 27 / 84 The elongated 21 / 23 elements can facilitate peeling, as a new section of the eggshell can be contacted with each cycle and can also cause the egg to rotate so that all surfaces eventually come into contact with the egg peeling elements. Furthermore, an intermittent release or reduction of pressure can reduce the risk of damage to the egg white, as the egg is free to roll over the elongated peeling elements when pressure is removed or reduced.

[0077] In the embodiments of Figs. 5-10, the protrusions 120 are spaced along the longitudinal geometric axis L2 of the elongated push element 12 with varying mutual distances, wherein the mutual distances decrease from the egg inlet 601 towards the center of the peeling section 10 and increase again towards the egg outlet 602. This has been found to result in good peeling, as the pressure applied by the protrusions 120 becomes even more frequent towards the center, resulting in the beginning of peeling of all eggs, but decreasing towards the egg outlet, thereby reducing the risk of breaking larger eggs. However, other embodiments may be advantageous depending on the nature of the eggs to be peeled.

[0078] The spiral member 124 shown in Fig. 5-11 is solid and made of rubber, but it could also be embodiments such as an air-filled tube made of another elastic polymer. The spiral member here has a cross-sectional diameter of 12 mm and a Shore hardness of 60 and is wound around a rod made of stainless steel which has a diameter of 20 mm. To retain the spiral member in its intended position on the rod, the rod may be provided with a separate rail or indentation on which the spiral member rests.

[0079] In the embodiment shown in Figs. 8-11, the elongated push element 12 is placed at a vertical distance above the elongated peeling elements 11, measured center to center, of 50-70 mm. In one definition, the center-to-center distance is 63 mm at the egg inlet and 52 mm at the egg outlet, resulting in a distance D1 between the surfaces of Petition 870250084603, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, page 28 / 84 22 / 23 contact with the egg 111, 127 at the egg inlet of approximately 35 mm and approximately 22 mm at the egg outlet, but these dimensions may vary depending, for example, on the size of the eggs to be peeled.

[0080] In Fig. 11, the elongated peeling elements 11 are configured to rotate in opposite directions, as indicated by arrows C. This allows the egg contact surfaces 111 of the peeling elements 11 to grip the eggshell 60 and thereby pull the eggshell down between the elongated peeling elements 11. The elongated peeling elements 11 are positioned here with a distance D3 between rotational centers of 28.5 mm and a mutual distance of 0.5 mm measured perpendicularly to the longitudinal geometric axes, enabling the eggshells to move between the elongated peeling elements 11. These distances may vary depending on the type or state of the eggs being processed, as well as other factors such as the surface properties of the elongated peeling elements.

[0081] All dimensions mentioned refer to the peeling of chicken eggs. When peeling, for example, duck eggs, the distance D1 will need to be increased by approximately 30%, resulting, for example, in a center-to-center distance between the elongated push element 12 and the elongated peeling elements 11 of approximately 90 mm at the egg inlet 601 and 65 mm at the egg outlet 602. In this context, it is assumed that chicken eggs have an average diameter of 43 mm and that duck eggs have an average diameter of 47 mm.

[0082] In the embodiments shown in Fig. 9 and Fig. 10, the angle A2 of the elongated push element 12 in the horizontal direction relative to the elongated peeling element is 0.37° and the angle A1 in the vertical direction is 0.2°. These angles can also be altered to adapt the apparatus to the processing of a particular type of eggs.

[0083] As described above with regard to Figs. 1-3, the mutual angulation that Petition 870250084603, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, page 29 / 84 23 / 23 creates the funnel-shaped space between the elongated peeling elements 11 and the elongated push element 12. This can be achieved by shaping the elongated peeling elements and the elongated push element in different ways. A similar effect can be achieved by providing the elongated push element 12 with protrusions of varying dimensions along the longitudinal geometric axis L2. Petition 870250084603, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, page 30 / 84

Claims

1 / 5 CLAIMS 1. Apparatus (1) for peeling boiled eggs (60), each having an eggshell, said apparatus comprising a peeling section (10) having an egg inlet (601) and an egg outlet (602), and wherein an egg transport direction (T) of the apparatus extends from the egg inlet (601) to the egg outlet (602), wherein the peeling section comprises: at least two elongated peeling elements (11), each extending along a respective longitudinal geometric axis and at least one of them being rotatable about the respective longitudinal geometric axis, wherein the at least two elongated peeling elements (11) are arranged so that their respective longitudinal geometric axis extends in the same direction as the egg transport direction (T),wherein the two elongated peeling elements (11) are configured to support eggs (60) moving in the egg transport direction (T) and to remove the eggshells from the eggs (60), and wherein each of the two elongated peeling elements (11) has an egg contact surface (111); and at least one elongated push element (12) having a geometric axis extending in the same direction as the egg transport direction (T) and being disposed at a distance from the elongated peeling elements (11) measured perpendicularly to the longitudinal geometric axes of the elongated peeling elements (11), said elongated push element (12) having an egg contact surface (121, 127); characterized in that the egg contact surface (121) of the elongated push element (12) is angled relative to the egg contact surfaces (111) of the elongated peeling elements (11),so that the first shortest distance (D1) between the contact surface with the egg (121) of the elongated push element (12) and the contact surfaces with the egg (111) of the elongated peeling elements (11) measured perpendicularly to the longitudinal geometric axes (L1) of the elongated peeling elements (11) at the egg inlet (601) is greater than the second shortest distance (D2) between the contact surface with the egg (121) of the elongated push element (12) and the contact surfaces with the egg (111) of the elongated peeling elements (11) measured perpendicularly to the longitudinal geometric axes (L1) of the elongated peeling elements (11) at the egg outlet (602)., 2. Egg peeling apparatus (60), according to claim 1, characterized in that the longitudinal geometric axis of the elongated thrust element (12) is angled with respect to the longitudinal geometric axes of the elongated peeling elements (11).

3. Egg peeling apparatus (60), according to any one of claims 1 or 2, characterized by further comprising a conveying device (20) for moving the eggs (60) in the egg conveying direction (T), said conveying device (20) comprising a plurality of conveying elements (23) extending transversely to the egg conveying direction and between the elongated pushing element (12) and the elongated peeling elements (11).

4. Egg peeling apparatus (60), according to claim 3, characterized in that the transport elements (23) form compartments (24) between them, each compartment being configured to accommodate a single egg.

5. Egg-peeling apparatus (60), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the elongated push element (12) has protrusions (120) spaced apart from each other along the geometric axis (L2) of the elongated push element (12).

6. Egg-peeling apparatus (60), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the protuberances Petition 870260026312, dated 20 / 03 / 2026, page 12 / 18 3 / 5 (120) are formed by a spiral member wound around the longitudinal geometric axis (12).

7. Egg-peeling apparatus (60), according to any one of claims 5 or 6, characterized in that the protrusions (120) are spaced along the geometric axis of the elongated push element (12) with variable mutual distances.

8. Egg-peeling apparatus (60), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the position of the elongated push element (12) in relation to the elongated peeling elements (11) is adjustable.

9. Egg peeling apparatus (60), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the elongated peeling elements (11) are placed with a mutual distance of 0.5 mm measured perpendicularly to the geometric axes of the elongated peeling elements (11).

10. Apparatus for peeling eggs (60), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the elongated peeling elements (11) are configured to rotate in opposite directions.

11. Apparatus for peeling eggs (60), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the elongated peeling elements (11) are placed in the same horizontal plane.

12. Egg-peeling apparatus (60), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the elongated peeling elements (11) are provided with a coating or sleeve that promotes friction, wherein said coating or sleeve may be a polymer.

13. Egg peeling apparatus (60), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the elongated push element (12) is placed at a vertical distance of 30-70 mm, preferably 40-50 mm, above the elongated peeling elements (11) measured at the egg inlet (601).

14. Egg-peeling apparatus (60), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the angle of the geometric axis of the elongated push element (12) with respect to at least one of the longitudinal geometric axes of the elongated peeling elements (11) is adjustable, preferably within the range of 0.1-1 degrees, more preferably within the range of 0.2-0.5 degrees.

15. Egg-peeling apparatus (60), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the elongated peeling elements (11), the elongated push element (12) and the carrier device (20) each have individual actuators (51, 52, 53, 54).

16. Egg-peeling apparatus (60), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by further comprising a cracking section (30) configured for cracking eggshells, said cracking section being located before the egg inlet (601).

17. Method for peeling boiled eggs, wherein the eggs (60), each having an eggshell, enter a peeling section (10) of a peeling apparatus via an egg inlet (601) and exit the peeling section (10) via an egg outlet (602), and wherein said eggs (60) move in an egg transport direction (T) extending from the egg inlet (601) to the egg outlet (602), wherein said method further comprises: arranging said eggs (60) in at least two elongated peeling elements (11), wherein each of the elongated peeling elements (11) extends along a respective geometric axis, wherein the two elongated peeling elements (11) are arranged so that their respective longitudinal geometric axes extend in the same direction as the egg transport direction (T), and wherein each of the two elongated peeling elements (11) has a surface of contact with the egg (111),Petition 870260026312, dated 20 / 03 / 2026, p. 14 / 18 5 / 5 rotate at least one of the elongated peeling elements (11) around its geometric axis, thereby removing the eggshells from the eggs (60); push the eggs (60) towards the elongated peeling elements (11) using at least one elongated pushing element (12) having an egg contact surface (121) and a geometric axis, wherein the elongated pushing element (12) is arranged so that its longitudinal geometric axis extends in the same direction as the egg transportation direction (T),and wherein the elongated push element (12) is disposed at a distance from the elongated peeling elements (11) measured perpendicularly to the longitudinal geometric axes of the elongated peeling elements (11); characterized in that the push on the eggs (60) resulting from the use of the elongated push element (12) increases as the eggs (60) move in the egg transport direction (T), due to the egg contact surface (121, 127) of the elongated push element (12) being angled relative to the egg contact surfaces (111) of the elongated peeling elements (11),so that the first shortest distance between the egg contact surface (121) of the elongated push element (12) and the egg contact surfaces (111) of the elongated peeling elements (11) measured perpendicularly to the longitudinal geometric axes (11) at the egg inlet (601) is greater than the second shortest distance between the egg contact surface (121) of the elongated push element (12) and the egg contact surfaces (111) of the elongated peeling elements (11) measured perpendicularly to the longitudinal geometric axes of the elongated peeling elements (11) at the egg outlet (602). Petition 870260026312, dated 20 / 03 / 2026, page 15 / 18,

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