Detection device

Abstract

A detection device (2) for detecting a leak hole (12) in an intestine (8) suspended on a tubular member (10) having a perforated portion configured to distribute a liquid flow (6) through the perforated portion and to thereby pressurize the intestine (8) when the intestine (8) moves along a longitudinal axis of the tubular member (10) at a non-zero speed (V). The detection device (2) comprises: - an electrically conductive and axially extending sleeve-like surrounding portion (4, 4') at least partially surrounding a circumference of the tubular member (10); - an electric circuit (14) arranged and configured to measure an electrical quantity (R) established between the surrounding portion (4, 4') and the liquid (6) of the pressurized intestine (8).

Description

Invention Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a detection device and method for detecting leak holes in the intestine, wherein the leak holes are suspended on a conductive tubular member and processed simultaneously. Existing technology

[0002] To determine quality and cut the carcass into valuable meat portions, inspection and processing equipment needs to be controlled relative to the anatomical parts of the carcass. Animal intestines are processed in a similar manner, with natural casings being a primary focus.

[0003] Processing animal intestines involves several steps, including cleaning the intestines, scraping the inner lining to remove the mucus layer, and scraping the outer lining. Additional measurement steps are performed to package the intestines according to their size and weight. In the measurement step, the diameter of each intestine is measured to classify it and cut it into smaller pieces based on that diameter.

[0004] Detecting pores in the intestine is essential for determining intestinal quality. Therefore, several methods have been developed for identifying pores in the intestine suspended from tubular structures. Some existing methods are based on optical detection of pores. Optical detection can be performed using optical sensors such as cameras. However, using cameras also has several drawbacks.

[0005] First, several cameras are needed to cover all sides of the intestine. Furthermore, complex and expensive lighting is typically required because insufficient illumination can prevent camera application. Additionally, water from the intestine can splash onto the cameras, so it must be wiped away to maintain high camera data quality.

[0006] Therefore, it would be advantageous to provide an alternative method for identifying the openings in the intestine suspended on a tubular structure.

[0007] One object of the present invention is to provide an alternative method for identifying holes in the intestine suspended on a tubular member.

[0008] Another object of the present invention is to provide a detection device for identifying holes in the intestine suspended on a tubular member. Summary of the Invention

[0009] The detection device according to the invention is a detection device configured to detect a leak in the intestine suspended on a tubular member having a perforated portion configured to distribute a flow of fluid through the perforated portion and thereby pressurize the intestine when the intestine moves at a non-zero velocity along the longitudinal axis of the tubular member, wherein the detection device comprises:

[0010] - A conductive and axially extending sleeve-shaped surrounding portion that at least partially surrounds the circumference of the tubular member;

[0011] - A circuit arranged and configured to measure the electrical charge established between the surrounding portion and the fluid in the pressurized intestine. Therefore, a detection device can be provided that is capable of reliably and easily identifying orifices in the intestine suspended on a tubular member.

[0012] In one embodiment, the tubular member is a conductive tubular member. In another embodiment, the tubular member is a rod-shaped member made of metal.

[0013] If the tubular component is not conductive, the circuit can be configured to measure the electrical quantity between the surrounding portion and the contact structure (e.g., the anode) electrically connected to the liquid.

[0014] By providing a conductive and axially extending sleeve-shaped surrounding portion that at least partially surrounds the periphery of the tubular member, the electrical charge established between the surrounding portion and the fluid in the pressurized intestine can be measured.

[0015] The circuit was arranged and configured to measure the electrical charge established between the fluid in the surrounding portion and the pressurized intestine.

[0016] In one embodiment, the circuit is arranged and configured to measure the electrical quantity established between the surrounding portion and the tubular member.

[0017] In one embodiment, the electrical charge is resistance.

[0018] In one embodiment, electrical quantity is electric current.

[0019] In one embodiment, electrical quantity is voltage.

[0020] Because the intestine is pressurized, a water jet occurs when a portion of the pressurized intestine includes an opening. As the portion of the intestine including the opening passes through the surrounding portion, the water jet extends between the water inside the intestine and the surrounding portion, thus connecting the water inside the intestine. Therefore, the resistance decreases compared to the case where the water inside the intestine and the surrounding portion is separated only by the air passing through the intestine and the surrounding portion. Therefore, whether the intestine includes an opening through the surrounding portion can be detected by measuring the current or resistance between the surrounding portion and the tubular structure.

[0021] The speed is usually in the range of 0.5-3 m / s.

[0022] In one embodiment, the speed is in the range of 1-2.5 m / s.

[0023] In one embodiment, the perforated portion is formed as a plurality of holes (through holes) in the radial surface of the tubular member.

[0024] In one embodiment, the perforated portion is formed as one or more grooves disposed in the radial surface of the tubular member.

[0025] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the tubular member is formed as a tube.

[0026] In one embodiment, the distance D between the surrounding portion and the tubular member is selected based on the type of intestine.

[0027] In one embodiment, if the intestines are from a pig, the distance is in the range of 20-50 mm. The word "pig" includes both pigs and pigs.

[0028] In one embodiment, if the intestine is from a sheep, the distance is in the range of 10-40 mm.

[0029] In one embodiment, if the intestines are from a cow, the distance is in the range of 25-70 mm. The term "cow" includes "livestock".

[0030] The tubular member is narrow enough to receive a minimum intestinal diameter D min. The surrounding portion can be shaped as a sensor ring.

[0031] The surrounding portion is large enough to ensure that air is always present between the intestine and the surrounding portion, even at the maximum intestinal diameter D expected by the processing device. max The same applies to other parts. Therefore, the ring must always be larger than the diameter of the tubular member (D). max - D min ).

[0032] Therefore, the distance D between the surrounding portion and the tubular member must satisfy the following equation (A):

[0033] (A) D ≥D max - D min

[0034] If the distance D is large, the detection device will also activate. The water jet is more likely to break before reaching the surrounding area.

[0035] Advantageously, the surrounding portion includes a first part and a second part, wherein the first part and the second part are movably arranged relative to each other.

[0036] In one embodiment, the surrounding portion comprises two identical parts.

[0037] In one embodiment, the two parts are semi-cylindrical.

[0038] In one embodiment, the surrounding portion comprises two parts electrically connected to each other. In another embodiment, the surrounding portion is a single, integral body.

[0039] In one embodiment, the unibody is cylindrical.

[0040] In one embodiment, the surrounding portion extends at least 180 degrees along the circumference of the tubular member.

[0041] It may be advantageous that the circuit is electrically connected to a first contact point electrically connected to the liquid (when the tubular member has filled the intestine with liquid), and electrically connected to the surrounding portion at a second contact point electrically isolated from the liquid.

[0042] It may be advantageous to have the surrounding parts made of metal.

[0043] In one embodiment, the surrounding portion is made of stainless steel.

[0044] It may be beneficial to extend the surrounding portion at least 355 degrees along the circumference of the tubular member.

[0045] In one embodiment, the surrounding portion extends 360 degrees along the circumference of the tubular member.

[0046] In one embodiment, the circuit is configured to detect when the electrical charge between the surrounding portion and the fluid in the pressurized intestine is not within a predetermined interval (below a predetermined level if resistance is measured, or above a predetermined level if resistance is measured) for a period of time longer than a predefined non-zero time. Therefore, false alarms can be avoided.

[0047] In one embodiment, the circuit is configured to detect when the electrical quantity between the surrounding portion and the tubular member is outside a predetermined interval (below a predetermined level if resistance is measured, or above a predetermined level if current is measured) for a period longer than a predefined non-zero time. Therefore, false alarms can be avoided.

[0048] In one embodiment, the circuit is configured to detect when the current between the surrounding portion and the fluid in the pressurized intestine is below a predetermined level (which is relevant if resistance is measured) for a duration longer than a predetermined non-zero time period.

[0049] In one embodiment, the circuit is configured to detect when the current between the surrounding portion and the tubular member is below a predetermined level (which is relevant if resistance is measured) for a duration longer than a predetermined non-zero time period.

[0050] In one embodiment, the circuit is configured to detect when the current between the surrounding portion and the tubular member is above a predetermined level (which is relevant if current is being measured) for a duration longer than a predetermined non-zero time period.

[0051] In one embodiment, the circuit is configured to detect when the current between the surrounding portion and the fluid in the pressurized intestine is above a predetermined level (which is relevant if the current is being measured) for a period of time longer than a predetermined non-zero time.

[0052] In one embodiment, the predetermined resistance level is 10 MΩ or less. Tests have shown that this resistance level is suitable for avoiding false alarms.

[0053] It may be advantageous to select a predefined time T' based on the length L and velocity V of the surrounding portion in the following manner: .

[0054] In one embodiment, the predetermined time T' is selected based on the length L of the surrounding portion and the velocity V in such a way that: .

[0055] In one embodiment, the predetermined time T' is selected based on the length L of the surrounding portion and the velocity V in such a way that: .

[0056] In one embodiment, the predetermined time T' is at least 3 ms.

[0057] In one embodiment, the predetermined time T' is at least 5 ms.

[0058] In one embodiment, the scheduled time T' is at least 8 ms.

[0059] In one embodiment, the predetermined time T' is at least 10 ms.

[0060] In one embodiment, the predetermined time T' is at least 25ms.

[0061] In one embodiment, the predetermined time T' is at least 50ms.

[0062] In one embodiment, the processing device includes a chassis.

[0063] To prevent incorrect electrical connections of the liquid film from the surrounding parts to the machine chassis, it may be advantageous to place a conductive structure (e.g., a plate) between the chassis and the surrounding parts. This conductive structure will electrically isolate the chassis and the surrounding parts, and the circuitry will ensure that the voltage on the conductive structure is always the same as the voltage on the surrounding parts.

[0064] Since any liquid film that could be located between the perimeter and the chassis must pass through a conductive structure, it is impossible for any current to flow from the perimeter to the chassis because there is no voltage potential between the perimeter and the chassis.

[0065] If current flows between the conductive structures of the chassis, the current will not affect the electrical quantity measurement between the surrounding parts and the intestinal fluid.

[0066] The method according to the invention is a method for detecting a leaking orifice in the intestine, the orifice being suspended on a tubular member having a perforated portion configured to distribute a flow of fluid through the perforated portion and thereby pressurize the intestine as the intestine moves at a non-zero velocity along the longitudinal axis of the tubular member, wherein the method includes the following steps:

[0067] The conductive and axially extending sleeve-shaped surrounding portion is arranged in such a manner that the surrounding portion at least partially surrounds the circumference of the tubular member, and

[0068] Measure the electrical charge between the fluid in the surrounding area and the pressurized intestine.

[0069] Therefore, the pores in the intestine suspended on the tubular structure can be identified in a reliable and easy manner.

[0070] In one embodiment, the tubular member is a conductive tubular member.

[0071] If the tubular member is non-conductive, the electrical charge between the surrounding portion and the fluid in the pressurized intestine can be measured between the surrounding portion and the contact structure (e.g., an anode) electrically connected to the liquid. It may be advantageous for the method to include the step of arranging the tubular member in such a way that the distance between the surrounding portion and the tubular member is selected depending on the type of intestine, wherein this distance is:

[0072] a) If the intestines are from pigs, the range is 20-50 mm;

[0073] b) If the intestines are from sheep, they should be in the range of 10-40 mm;

[0074] c) If the intestines are from cattle, they should be in the range of 25-70 mm;

[0075] Therefore, optimal settings can be achieved.

[0076] Advantageously, the surrounding portion comprises a first part and a second part, wherein the first part and the second part are movably arranged relative to each other. Therefore, it facilitates the insertion of the intestine through the surrounding portion.

[0077] Advantageously, the method includes the step of applying a surrounding portion formed as an integral body.

[0078] In one embodiment, the method includes the step of applying a surrounding portion that extends at least 180 degrees along the circumference of the tubular member.

[0079] In one embodiment, the method includes the step of applying a surrounding portion that extends at least 355 degrees along the circumference of the tubular member.

[0080] In one embodiment, the method includes the step of applying a surrounding portion that extends at least 358 degrees along the circumference of the tubular member.

[0081] In one embodiment, the surrounding portion extends 360 degrees along the circumference of the tubular member.

[0082] Advantageously, the method includes the step of applying a circuit configured to detect when the electrical charge between the surrounding portion and the fluid (when the tubular member has filled the intestine with fluid) is below a predetermined level (if resistance is measured, this is relevant) or above a predefined level (if current is measured, this is relevant) for a period longer than a predefined non-zero time T'. Therefore, false alarms can be avoided in cases where a short-term electrical connection exists between the surrounding portion and the tubular member through water in the intestine where there are no pores.

[0083] Advantageously, the method includes the step of applying resistance as an electrical quantity, wherein the predetermined resistance level is 10 MΩ or less.

[0084] Advantageously, the method includes the step of applying a predetermined time T', which is selected based on the length L of the surrounding portion and the velocity V in such a way that: .

[0085] Advantageously, the method includes the step of applying a predetermined time T', which is selected based on the length L of the surrounding portion and the velocity V in such a way that: .

[0086] Advantageously, the method includes the step of applying a predetermined time T', which is selected based on the length L of the surrounding portion and the velocity V in such a way that: .

[0087] It may be advantageous to have a processing device for processing intestines with open ends, wherein the processing device includes:

[0088] A tubular member having a perforated portion configured to distribute a flow of liquid through the perforated portion, wherein the tubular member is configured to receive the open end of the intestine and suspend the intestine on the tubular member and thereby apply pressure to the intestinal tube.

[0089] Two drive rollers, including a circumferential track configured to engage with a tubular member, wherein at least one of the drive rollers is arranged and configured to move the intestine at a non-zero speed along the longitudinal axis of the tubular member.

[0090] Two clamping rollers are arranged to form a clamping configuration, wherein the tube is clamped by the clamping rollers, wherein the distal end of the tubular member is arranged between the drive roller and the clamping roller, wherein the processing device includes a detection device according to the invention.

[0091] Therefore, a processing device can be provided that can process the intestine and simultaneously detect pores in the intestine in a rapid and reliable manner.

[0092] In one embodiment, the tubular member is conductive.

[0093] It may be advantageous to place the detection device between the drive roller and the clamping roller.

[0094] The intestinal detector according to the invention includes a first end detector and a second end detector arranged at a non-zero distance from the first end detector, wherein the intestinal detector includes an intermediate detector arranged between each end detector and spaced apart from such end detectors. The intermediate detector is configured to be suspended on the end detector and extend between the first and second end detectors for electrical connection to the intestine.

[0095] Therefore, the electrical current between the end detector and the intermediate detector can be measured to detect whether the intestine is suspended on the intestinal detector. In one embodiment, the intestinal detector includes circuitry configured to detect the resistance between either the end detector or the intermediate detector.

[0096] In one embodiment, the intestinal detector includes circuitry configured to detect the current between either the end detector or the intermediate detector.

[0097] In one embodiment, the intestinal detector includes circuitry configured to detect a potential difference between either a terminal detector or an intermediate detector.

[0098] In one embodiment, each of the end detectors is configured to receive and hold the intestine suspended on the end detector.

[0099] In one embodiment, the end detectors have the same geometry.

[0100] In one embodiment, the end detector includes a hook-shaped portion. Therefore, the end detector can receive and hold the intestine suspended thereon.

[0101] In one embodiment, the intermediate detector has a straight distal portion extending between the first end detector and the second end detector.

[0102] In one embodiment, the end detector and the intermediate detector are made of metal.

[0103] In a preferred embodiment, the end detector and the intermediate detector are made of stainless steel.

[0104] In one embodiment, the end detector extends through a mounting box that includes electrical connection structures for connecting circuitry configured to perform one of a plurality of electrical measurements via the detector.

[0105] In one embodiment, the intestinal detector includes two identical receiving portions, each receiving portion including a set of detectors and an intermediate detector arranged between them.

[0106] In one embodiment, the intestinal detector is electrically insulated from the wall to which the intestinal detector is attached by an insulator.

[0107] In one embodiment, the intestinal detector includes the same circuitry as that included in the detection device according to the invention.

[0108] In one embodiment, the intestinal detector and detection device according to the invention use the same circuitry.

[0109] Drawing instructions

[0110] The invention will become more comprehensive from the detailed description given below. The accompanying drawings are given by way of illustration only and therefore do not limit the invention. In the drawings:

[0111] Figure 1 shows a schematic perspective cross-sectional view of the detection device according to the present invention;

[0112] Figure 2 shows a schematic cross-sectional side view of the detection device shown in Figure 1;

[0113] Figure 3 shows a schematic side view of the processing apparatus according to the present invention;

[0114] Figure 4 is a side view of another structure of the processing device shown in Figure 3;

[0115] Figure 5 shows the curve of resistance changing over time;

[0116] Figure 6 shows a schematic diagram of the detection device according to the present invention;

[0117] Figure 7 shows a perspective view of the detection device according to the present invention;

[0118] Figure 8 shows a side view of a tubular member having a distal end arranged between a set of drive rollers and a set of clamping rollers (the one shown in Figure 7).

[0119] Figure 9 shows the intestinal detector according to the present invention;

[0120] Figure 10 is a three-dimensional side view of the intestinal detector shown in Figure 9;

[0121] Figure 11 shows the intestinal detector according to the present invention;

[0122] Figure 12 shows a perspective side view of the intestinal detector shown in Figure 11. Invention Details

[0124] To illustrate preferred embodiments of the invention, reference is now made in detail to the accompanying drawings, in which FIG1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the detection device 2 according to the invention.

[0125] The detection device 2 includes a conductive, axially extending sleeve-shaped surrounding portion having a first portion 4 and a second portion 4'. Each portion 4, 4' is semi-circular and extends 180 degrees along the circumference of the conductive tubular member 10. The tubular member 10 is formed as a tube centrally located in the surrounding portion and extending axially along the longitudinal axis of the surrounding portion.

[0126] Intestine 8 is suspended on tubular member 10. Tubular member 10 has a perforated portion configured to distribute fluid 6 through the perforated portion and thereby pressurize intestine 8. Zero velocity V along the longitudinal axis of tubular member 10.

[0127] The detection device 2 is used to detect the presence of a leak hole 12 in the intestine 8. Due to pressure on the intestine 8, a water jet 6 is generated. The water jet 6 extends between the water within the intestine 8 and the first part 4 surrounding it.

[0128] The water jet 6 establishes an electrical connection between the tubular member 10 and the first part 4 of the surrounding portion. Therefore, the resistance is reduced compared to the case where the water inside the intestine 8 and the surrounding portion are separated only by the intestine 8 and the surrounding air.

[0129] The detection device 2 includes circuitry (not shown) arranged and configured to measure electrical quantities such as resistance or current between the surrounding portion and the tubular member 10. Thus, as shown in FIG2, the detection device can perform measurements when a shift occurs between the surrounding portion and the tubular member 10. When a shift occurs, the detection device detects the portion of the intestinal 8 surrounding the leakage hole 12 through which it passes.

[0130] Let L represent the length of the surrounding portion. Since the intestinal 8 moves at a velocity V, the leakage hole 12 will move relative to the surrounding portion at the same velocity V. Therefore, the expected contact time for the water jet 8 to establish electrical contact between the tubular member 10 and the surrounding portion can be calculated using the following equation:

[0131] (1) T contact = L / V

[0132] To avoid false alarms, the circuit can be configured to detect when the electrical charge between the surrounding portion and the tubular member 10 falls below a predetermined level (which is relevant when measuring resistance) or falls below a predetermined level (which is relevant when measuring current) for a duration longer than a predefined non-zero time. Thus, false alarms can be avoided. In one example, the velocity V is 2 m / s and L is 10 cm. Using equation (1), it can be calculated that:

[0133] (2) T contact = L / V = (0.10 m) / (2 m / s) = 0.05 s = 50 ms.

[0134] Using these parameters, a leak hole 12 can be detected when the resistance decreases to less than 10 MΩ within a time period of 10-50 ms.

[0135] Figure 2 shows a schematic cross-sectional side view of the detection device 2 shown in Figure 1. The first part 4 and the second part 4' of the surrounding portion of the detection device 2 have semi-circular cross portions. The tubular member 10 has a plurality of perforations 28. Water inside the tubular member 10 is pressurized. Therefore, water flows through the perforations 28 and pressurizes the intestine 8.

[0136] The water jet 6 extends between the leak hole 12 and the surrounding portion. The distance D between the tubular member 10 and the surrounding portion 10 is shown.

[0137] Figure 3 shows a processing device 20 according to the invention in a first configuration, while Figure 4 shows the processing device 20 of Figure 3 in a second configuration. The processing device 20 is designed to process intestines 8 having an open end. The processing device 20 includes a conductive tubular member 10 with a perforated portion configured to dispense a liquid flow (e.g., water) through the perforated portion.

[0138] The tubular member 10 is arranged and configured to receive the open end of the intestine 8 and thereby allow the intestine 8 to suspend on the tubular member 10 and thereby pressurize the intestine 8 with liquid.

[0139] The processing device 20 includes two drive rollers 24. At least one of the drive rollers 24 includes a circumferential track configured to engage with the tubular member 10.

[0140] At least one of the drive rollers 24 is arranged and configured to move the intestinal 8 at a non-zero speed V along the longitudinal axis of the tubular member 10.

[0141] In a preferred embodiment, the drive rollers 24 are shaped in the same manner such that both drive rollers 24 include a circumferential track configured to engage with the tubular member 10.

[0142] The processing device 20 includes two clamping rollers 26 arranged in a clamping configuration, wherein the intestine 8 is clamped by the clamping rollers 26.

[0143] The distal end of the tubular member 10 is arranged between the drive roller 24 and the clamping roller 26. The processing apparatus 20 includes a detection device 2 according to the invention. The detection device 2 is disposed between the drive roller 24 and the clamping roller 26.

[0144] Each clamping roller 26 is partially covered by a screen 36. The screen 36 may preferably be made of a non-conductive material (e.g., plastic). The detection device 2 is configured to detect leakage holes in the intestine 8 suspended on the tubular member as the intestine 8 moves at a non-zero speed V along the longitudinal axis of the tubular member 10. The detection device 2 includes conductive and axially extending sleeve-shaped surrounding portions 4, 4', which are configured to form a configuration (as shown in FIG. 4) in which the surrounding portions surround the periphery 10 of the tubular member.

[0145] The detection device 2 includes a circuit 14 arranged and configured to measure electrical quantities, such as resistance or current, established between the surrounding portion and the tubular member 10. It can be seen that the circuit 14 is electrically connected to the tubular member 10 and the surrounding portion via wires 22, 22'. Furthermore, the tubular member 10 is fixed to a bracket 16, which is electrically connected to electrical ground G.

[0146] The lowermost drive roller 24 and the lowermost clamping roller 26 are slidably mounted on the slide bar 18 to facilitate adjustment of the horizontal position of rollers 24 and 26.

[0147] In Figure 3, according to the present invention, the intestine 8 is suspended on an intestinal detector 38. The intestinal detector 38 includes a first end detector 40 and a second end detector 40', the second end detector 40' being disposed at a non-zero distance from the first end detector. The intestinal detector 38 includes an intermediate detector 42, which is disposed between and spaced apart from each of the end detectors 40, 40', and the intermediate detector 42 is electrically connected to any part of the intestine suspended on the end detectors 40, 40' and extending between the end detectors 40, 40'. (First end detector 40 and second end detector 40' are also mentioned.)

[0148] Each of the end detectors 40, 40' is shaped to receive and retain the intestine suspended on the end detectors 40, 40'. The end detectors 40, 40' have the same geometry. The end detectors 40, 40' include hook-shaped portions. However, the intermediate detector has a straight distal portion extending between the first end detector 40 and the second end detector 40'.

[0149] End detectors 40, 40' extend through a mounting box that includes electrical connection structures for connecting circuitry configured to perform one or more electrical measurements via detectors 40, 40', 42.

[0150] The intestine 8 is received by and suspended thereon by the tubular member 10. Furthermore, the intestine 8 is pressurized by water from the tubular member 10 and thus expands. The intestine 8 is held between clamping rollers 26 in a first position and is held by drive rollers 24 in another position.

[0151] Figure 5 shows curve 30, which depicts the resistance R as a function of time T. Between 0 and T1, the resistance R has a relatively constant level R3. Between T1 and T2, the resistance R drops to a lower, relatively constant level R1. The duration of this time interval ΔT is indicated. Thereafter, the resistance R increases back to a relatively constant level R3.

[0152] To avoid false alarms, the detection device includes circuitry configured to detect when the resistance R between the surrounding portion and the tubular member falls below a predetermined level R2 for a duration longer than a predetermined non-zero time period T'. T' and R2 are shown in the figure. Because the time period ΔT is greater than the predefined non-zero time T', the measurement is not considered a false alarm. In one embodiment, R2 is 10 MΩ.

[0153] Figure 6 shows a schematic diagram of the detection device 2 according to the present invention. The detection device 2 includes a surrounding portion comprising a first portion 4 and a second portion 4'. The first portion 4 and the second portion 4' comprise semi-cylindrical portions. The surrounding portion surrounds a tubular member 10, which extends centrally along the longitudinal axis of the surrounding portion. The tubular member 10 is grounded. An intestinal 8 is suspended on the tubular member 10.

[0154] The first part 4 is connected to the insulating structure 32, which is sandwiched between the protrusion of the first part 4 and the conductive structure 34. The conductive structure 34 is grounded and attached to the non-conductive shield 36.

[0155] A predefined potential U is provided in the surrounding area. If the water film establishes an electrical connection between the first part 4 and the conductive structure 34, the potential difference U1 between the first part 4 and the conductive structure 34 will be zero. However, if there is no water on the insulating structure 32, a non-zero potential difference U1 will exist.

[0156] By measuring the potential difference between the first part 4 and the conductive structure 34, it is possible to detect whether the surrounding parts are electrically insulated from the conductive structure 34. The conductive structure 34 can be a metal plate.

[0157] If the surrounding portion is electrically insulated from the conductive structure 34, the measurement of the potential difference (or current or resistance) between the first portion 4 and the tubular member 10 can be used to detect the presence of a leak in the first portion 4. A water-pressurized intestinal 8 is suspended from the tubular member 10.

[0158] Figure 7 shows a perspective view of the detection device according to the present invention. The detection device 2 includes an enclosure portion comprising a first part 4 and a second part 4' made of metal (e.g., stainless steel). Parts 4 and 4' are movable relative to each other. The first part 4 includes a semi-cylindrical portion attached to a screen 36 made of a non-conductive material such as plastic. The first part 4 includes a mounting plate attached to the screen 36 by screws.

[0159] Each of the two screens 36 surrounds a portion of a rotatably mounted clamping roller 26. The clamping roller is arranged and configured to form a configuration in which it presses against and thereby clamps the intestine, allowing the intestine to be pressurized with a liquid (e.g., water).

[0160] The lower screen 36 is slidably mounted on the horizontally extending slide bar 18. In the configuration shown in FIG7, the intestine can enter through the surrounding portion because the first portion 4 is perpendicularly spaced from the second portion 4'. However, the first portion 4 is mounted in such a way that it can move vertically and thus contact the second portion 4', thereby electrically connecting the first portion 4 and the second portion 4', and the surrounding portion is arranged in a configuration in which it surrounds the intestine (not shown).

[0161] Figure 8 shows a side view of the tubular member 10, which has a distal end arranged between a set of drive rollers 24 and a set of clamping rollers (the same as shown in Figure 7). Each drive roller 24 is partially surrounded by a screen. The screen of the lower drive roller 24 is slidably mounted on a slide bar 18.

[0162] Each drive roller 24 includes a circumferential track configured to engage with the tubular member 10. The track is shaped to receive half of the tubular member 10 such that the non-tracked portions of the drive roller 24 will abut against each other when the track contacts the tubular member 10. The track is provided with grooves for enhancing grip.

[0163] Figure 9 illustrates an intestinal detector 38 according to the present invention. The intestinal detector 38 includes a first end detector 40 and a second end detector 40', which are arranged at a non-zero distance from the first end detector. The intestinal detector 38 includes an intermediate detector 42, which is arranged between and spaced apart from each of the end detectors 40, 40', and is electrically connected to any part of the intestine suspended on the end detectors 40, 40', and extends between the first end detector 40 and the second end detector 40'.

[0164] Each of the end detectors 40, 40' is shaped to receive and retain the intestine suspended on the end detectors 40, 40'. The end detectors 40, 40' have the same geometry. The end detectors 40, 40' include hook-shaped portions. However, the intermediate detector has a straight distal portion extending between the first end detector 40 and the second end detector 40'.

[0165] End detectors 40, 40' extend through a mounting box that includes electrical connection structures for connecting circuitry configured to perform one or more electrical measurements via detectors 40, 40', 42.

[0166] Figure 10 illustrates a perspective side view of the intestinal detector 38 shown in Figure 9. It can be seen that the intestinal detector 38 comprises two identical receiving portions, each receiving portion including a set of detectors 40, 40' and an intermediate detector 42 arranged therebetween. Furthermore, it can be seen that the intestinal detector 38 is electrically insulated from the wall 46 to which it is attached by an insulator 44.

[0167] Figure 11 illustrates an intestinal detector 38 according to the present invention. The intestinal detector 38 substantially corresponds to the detector shown in Figure 9. However, the intestinal detector 38 does not include a second end detector 40'. The intestinal detector 38 includes an intermediate detector 42 arranged spaced apart from and extending parallel to the first end detector 40, the intermediate detector 42 being electrically connected to any part of the intestine suspended above the first end detector 40.

[0168] The first end detector 40 is shaped to receive and hold the intestine suspended on the first end detector 40. The first end detector 40 includes a hook-shaped portion.

[0169] The first end detector 40 extends through a mounting box that includes electrical connection structures for connecting circuitry configured to perform one or more electrical measurements via detectors 40, 42.

[0170] Figure 12 shows a perspective side view of the intestinal detector 38 shown in Figure 11. It can be seen that the intestinal detector 38 includes a receiving portion comprising a first end detector 40 and an intermediate detector 42 disposed above the first detector 40. Furthermore, it can be seen that the intestinal detector 38 is electrically insulated from the wall 46 to which it is attached by an insulator 44.

[0171] Reference list of numbers

[0172] 2. Detection device

[0173] 4, 4' part

[0174] 6 Liquids

[0175] 8 intestines

[0176] 10. Tubular components

[0177] 12 Leakage Holes

[0178] 14 Circuits

[0179] 16 brackets

[0180] 18 strokes

[0181] 20 processing units

[0182] 22' wire

[0183] 24 rollers

[0184] 26 rollers

[0185] 28 piercings

[0186] 30 charts

[0187] 32 Insulation Structure

[0188] 34 Conductive Structure

[0189] 36 Non-conductive screen

[0190] 38. Intestinal Analyzer

[0191] 40, 40' end detector

[0192] 42 Intermediate Detector

[0193] 44 Insulators

[0194] 46 walls

[0195] Resistors R and R1

[0196] resistors R2 and R3

[0197] T, T', ΔT time

[0198] T1, T2 time

[0199] D Distance

[0200] V speed

[0201] L length

[0202] G Electrical grounding

[0203] Voltages U, U1, U2

Claims

1. A detection device (2) configured to detect a leak hole (12) in an intestine (8) suspended on a tubular member (10), the tubular member (10) having a perforated portion configured to distribute a liquid flow (6) through the perforations, thereby pressurizing the intestine (8) when the intestine (8) moves along a longitudinal axis of the tubular member (10) with a non-zero speed (V), characterized in that, The detection device (2) comprises: an electrically conductive and axially extending surrounding portion (4, 4') at least partly surrounding the circumference of the tubular member (10); a circuit (14) arranged and configured to measure an electrical quantity established between the surrounding portion (4, 4') and the liquid flow (6) pressurizing the intestine (8).

2. The detection device (2) according to claim 1, characterized in that The distance (D) between the surrounding portion (4, 4') and the tubular member (10) is selected depending on the type of intestine (8).

3. The detection device (2) according to claim 2, characterized in that If the intestine (8) is from a pig, the distance (D) between the surrounding portion (4, 4') and the tubular member (10) is in the range of 20-50 mm.

4. The detection device (2) according to claim 2, characterized in that If the intestine (8) is from a sheep, the distance (D) between the surrounding portion (4, 4') and the tubular member (10) is in the range of 10-40 mm.

5. The detection device (2) according to claim 2, characterized in that If the intestine (8) is from a cow, the distance (D) between the surrounding portion (4, 4') and the tubular member (10) is in the range of 25-70 mm.

6. The detection device (2) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The surrounding portion (4, 4') comprises a first portion (4) and a second portion (4'), wherein the first portion (4) and the second portion (4') are movably arranged relative to each other.

7. The detection device (2) according to claim 1, characterized in that The circuit (14) is electrically connected to a first contact point, which is electrically connected to the liquid flow (6) and to a second contact point remote from the surrounding portion (4, 4'), which is remote from the electrically isolated liquid flow (6).

8. The detection device (2) according to claim 1, characterized in that The surrounding portion (4, 4') extends at least 355 degrees along the circumference of the tubular member (10).

9. The detection device (2) according to claim 1, characterized in that The circuit (14) is configured to detect when the electrical quantity between the surrounding portion (4, 4') and the tubular member (10) is not within a predetermined interval, which is below a predetermined level if the measurement is resistance or above a predetermined level if the measurement is current, and needs to be detected for a period of time (AT) longer than a predetermined non-zero time (T').

10. The detection device (2) according to claim 9, characterized in that The electrical quantity is resistance (R), and the predetermined level of resistance (R1) is 10 MΩ or less.

11. The detection device (2) according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that Said predetermined non-zero time (T') is chosen as a function of the length (L) of the winding portion (4, 4') and of the non-zero speed (V), in such a case that .

12. A method for detecting a leak hole (12) in an intestine (8) suspended on a tubular member (10) having a perforated portion configured to distribute a liquid flow (6) through the perforated portion and thereby pressurize the intestine (8), when the intestine (8) moves with a non-zero velocity (V) along a longitudinal axis of the tubular member (10), characterized in that, The method comprises the steps of arranging an electrically conductive and axially extending sleeve-shaped surrounding portion (4, 4') so that the surrounding portion (4, 4') at least partly surrounds the circumference of the tubular member (10); measuring an electrical quantity between the surrounding portion (4, 4') and a liquid flow (6) pressurizing the intestine (8).

13. The method of claim 12, wherein, The method comprises the step of arranging the tubular member (10) so that the distance (D) between the surrounding portion (4, 4') and the tubular member (10) is selected depending on the type of intestine (8), wherein the distance (D) is: a) in the range of 20-50 mm if the intestine (8) is from a pig; b) in the range of 10-40 mm if the intestine (8) is from a sheep; c) in the range of 25-70 mm if the intestine (8) is from a cow.

14. The method according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that, The surrounding portion (4, 4') comprises a first portion (4) and a second portion (4'), wherein the first portion (4) and the second portion (4') are movably arranged relative to each other.

15. The method according to the preceding claim 12, characterized in that, The surrounding portion (4, 4') extends at least 355 degrees along the circumference of the tubular member (10).

16. The method of the preceding claim 12, characterized by, Further comprising a circuit (14) configured to detect an amount of electricity between the surrounding portion (4, 4') and the liquid flow (6) when below a predetermined resistance level (R1) for a period of time (AT) of a predetermined non-zero time (T').

17. The method of claim 16, wherein, The predetermined resistance level (R1) is 10 MΩ or less.

18. The method of claim 16, wherein, Said predetermined non-zero time (T') is chosen as a function of the length (L) of the winding portion (4, 4') and of the non-zero speed (V), in such a case that .

19. A treatment device (20) for treating an intestine (8) having an open end, wherein the treatment device (20) comprises: Tubular member (10) with a perforated portion configured to distribute a liquid flow (6) through the perforated portion, wherein the tubular member (10) is configured to receive an open end of an intestine (8) and suspend the intestine (8) on the tubular member (10) and thereby pressurize the intestine (8); two drive rollers (24), wherein at least one of the drive rollers (24) comprises a circumferential track configured to engage with the tubular member (10), wherein at least one of the drive rollers (24) is arranged and configured to move the intestine (8) along a longitudinal axis of the tubular member (10) at a non-zero speed (V); two pinch rollers (26) arranged in a pinch configuration, wherein the intestine (8) is pinched by the pinch rollers (26), wherein a distal end of the tubular member (10) is located between the drive rollers (24) and the pinch rollers (26), characterized in that the processing device (20) comprises a detection device (2) according to any one of claims 1-11.

20. The processing device (20) according to claim 19, characterized in that The detection device (2) is arranged between the drive rollers (24) and the pinch rollers (26).

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