Suspended rail transport system

Abstract

A system and method for automatically transferring a carcass or carcass portion suspended on a first carrier to a second carrier, wherein at least one of the carriers is tilted during at least a portion of the transfer. The carcass portion may be a half-carcass that has been gutted and cleaned. The first carrier may be an industry-standard suspension hook frame or a single carrier, such as a European hook or a modified European hook. The second carrier may be a single carrier, such as a European hook carrier or a modified European hook carrier.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the transport of carcasses or carcass portions of four-legged slaughtered animals suspended on a carrier that engages with openings in the legs of the carcass or carcass portion. More specifically, this invention relates to the transfer of carcass portions from one carrier to another. Background Technology

[0002] Transporting the carcass portion of a slaughtered animal is well-known; this portion is suspended from a carrier that engages with an opening in the legs of the carcass portion. The carcass portion can be a half-carcass that has been gutted and cleaned. The carrier used can be a hook-type carrier with two opposing, opposite ends secured together by a crossbar. This crossbar has a suspension structure for use with an overhead conveyor system. Another type of carrier can be a variant of the European hook, also known as a European carrier, which has a pointed tip and a carrier portion shaped like a fishhook. European hooks also have a suspension structure for use with an overhead conveyor system, similar to that used for hook-type carriers. Individual carriers can conform to DIN 5047 (Carriers for meat and other food products; tubular track sliding carriers).

[0003] For example, EP1152664B1 (Butina APS) discloses transferring half of a pig carcass suspended at each end of a suspension hook that engages with a first opening on the carcass, and then attaching and engaging the suspension device, such as a single carrier, to and with the Achilles tendon, thereby forming a second opening on the carcass, as shown in Figure 5 of EP1152664B1. The suspension hook is then removed from the first opening, and each half of the carcass is transported separately for deboning and other processing. This process is labor-intensive, which limits the system's production speed to a maximum extent.

[0004] WO2005 / 099459A1 (KJMaskinfabriken A / S) discloses a method of releasing the remaining carcass onto a conveyor belt by temporarily grasping and clamping the sides of the carcass, severing tendons, and cutting off the hind feet / toes, while transferring the half-carcass suspended on a carrier of an overhead conveyor to a horizontal conveyor belt. This technique, and its variations, are common in the industry, but its disadvantages include the need for further deboning on a horizontal surface, requiring operators to lift heavy objects, and limited opportunities for automation. Summary of the Invention

[0005] One object of the present invention is to provide a system and method for automatically transferring carcass portions suspended on a first carrier to a second carrier. The carcass portion may be a half-carcass that has been eviscerated and cleaned, such as a eviscerated and cleaned carcass from a pig. In this patent application, the term "carcass portion" is also used for the whole animal carcass. The first carrier may be an industry-standard suspension hook frame having two opposite, opposing carrier ends secured together by a crossbar or a single carrier element, such as a European hook. The second carrier may be a single carrier element, such as a European hook. Based on this system and method, it is possible to transfer two carcass portions suspended on a suspension hook frame to two single carrier elements, which are part of the same deboning line, or the individual single carrier elements are part of different deboning lines. Similarly, it is possible to transfer carcass portions from one single carrier element to another, for example for sorting purposes or to a cooling plant located away from the current processing line.

[0006] Preferably, embodiments of the present invention attempt to mitigate, alleviate, or eliminate one or more of the aforementioned disadvantages, either alone or in any combination. In particular, embodiments of the present invention are considered to be aimed at providing a suspended track system that solves the aforementioned or other problems in the prior art.

[0007] To address one or more of these problems, in a first aspect of the invention, a suspended track transport system is provided, comprising a first carrier, a second carrier, a vertical alignment device, a horizontal alignment device, a tilting device, and a removal device. The first carrier is transported in a transport direction by a first overhead conveyor and has a first carcass engagement portion. The first carrier is arranged to selectively carry carcass portions by engaging the carcass portions with the first carcass engagement portion. The second carrier is transported by a second overhead conveyor and has a second carcass engagement portion. The second carrier is arranged to selectively carry carcass portions by engaging the carcass portions with the first carcass engagement portion. The first carcass joint engages with the second carcass joint to selectively support the carcass portion; a vertical alignment device aligns the first carcass joint with the second carcass joint in the vertical direction; a horizontal alignment device aligns the first carcass joint with the second carcass joint in the horizontal direction, such that both the first and second carcass joints engage with the carcass portion simultaneously; a tilting device tilts the first carcass joint downwards, such that the weight of the carcass portion gradually transfers from the first carcass joint to the second carcass joint; and a removal device completely removes the first carcass joint so that it is not engaged with the carcass portion.

[0008] The suspended track transport system may further include a first processing section having a plurality of spaced-apart first carriers for conveying carcass portions of a four-legged slaughter animal, wherein each of the first carriers has a free end designed to extend through an opening in the leg of the carcass portion, such that the carcass portion is at least freely suspended. The suspended track transport system may further include at least one second processing section having a plurality of spaced-apart second carriers, wherein each of the second carriers has a free end designed to engage with the leg of the carcass portion, such that the carcass portion is at least freely suspended.

[0009] The suspended track transport system may also have a transfer zone located between a first processing section and at least one second processing section. The system further includes a control device for automatically controlling the movement of the first and second carriers, such that upon arrival at the transfer zone, the first and second carriers move synchronously, such that the first carrier, moving in a first direction through an opening arranged on its legs carrying the carcass portion, and at least one unloaded second carrier, moving in a second direction, meet with their respective free ends facing each other. Multiple second processing sections may form corresponding multiple transfer zones within the suspended track transport system to guide the carcass portion from the first carrier to any selected second carrier among the multiple processing sections. In this way, for example, the carcass portion can be sorted into different processing lines. In one embodiment, the transfer zone is designed such that during the movement of the first and second carriers:

[0010] The relative horizontal distance between the free ends of the first and second bearing members shortens until the second bearing member engages with the body portion, then...

[0011] The weight of the carcass is transferred from the first load-bearing component to the second load-bearing component.

[0012] At least one second processing section may include a second processing section having a second type of carrier, a third processing section having a third type of carrier, etc., wherein each processing section may have different processing steps, for example, one processing section may be a first type of debonding line, another processing section may be a second type of debonding line, and the third processing section may be a cooling section for a buffer section, etc.

[0013] In one embodiment, the transfer zone is further designed such that, upon arrival at the transfer zone, the height of the free end of the second carrier is lower than the height of the free end of the first carrier, such that the relative lowering of the free ends causes the free end of the second carrier to pass through an opening in the leg below the free end of the first carrier. This provides a simple solution to allow the first and second carriers to engage with the carcass portion via the opening in the leg. The maximum diameter or height of the opening can vary, but is typically a few centimeters. The height difference is chosen such that the height is within the height of the opening.

[0014] In another embodiment, the transfer zone is also designed such that the relative height distance between the free end of the first carrier and the free end of the second carrier changes until the height of the free end of the second carrier is higher than the height of the first carrier, so that the weight of the carcass partially loaded is transferred to the second carrier.

[0015] In one embodiment, the suspension track system may further include a guiding device to tilt the first carrier and guide the first carrier and / or the carcass portion away from the second carrier after the carcass portion has been transferred to the second carrier, such that the second carrier becomes the sole carrier for the carcass portion.

[0016] In one embodiment, the suspension track system may further include a guiding device to guide the first carrier away from the second carrier and / or the carcass portion after the carcass portion has been transferred to the second carrier, such that the second carrier becomes the sole carrier for the carcass portion.

[0017] Furthermore, the guiding device may have an elongated guiding member arranged relative to the first and second carriers, such that when the first carrier moves in the first direction, the elongated guiding member, such as a rod or the like, interacts with the first carrier and / or the carcass portion, and this interaction forces the relative horizontal distance between the first and second carriers to increase until the first carrier is completely separated from the opening on the leg.

[0018] The first carrier can be slidably attached to the first track guide, and the second carrier can be slidably attached to the second track guide, wherein the transfer area is defined by means of the structure of the first track guide and / or the second track guide, such that the relative horizontal distance between the free ends of the first carrier and the free ends of the second carrier changes, and the relative height distance between the free ends of the first carrier and the free ends of the second carrier changes.

[0019] The first carrier can be a structure similar to a suspension frame, which includes free ends at opposite ends of the suspension frame-like structure, wherein each of the opposite ends carries a carcass portion, wherein at least one second processing section includes two second processing sections, wherein synchronous movement occurs at opposite ends of the suspension frame, wherein the unloaded free ends of the second carriers simultaneously, for example, through corresponding openings on the legs of the carcass portion. Therefore, it is now possible to automatically transfer a carcass portion to the second carrier associated with the second and third processing sections without any manual labor. The carcass portion can be half a carcass, wherein the processing steps at the second and third processing sections can include, but are not limited to, cooling (e.g., temporary storage), and at least partial deboning of the carcass portion by, for example, manual labor and / or processing devices.

[0020] The carcass section can initially be moved from one side of the suspension frame, while the other side of the suspension frame is temporarily supported by a second load-bearing member.

[0021] In one embodiment, the suspended track transport system further includes a guiding device comprising a plurality of guides configured to stabilize and raise or lower one or more of the body joints (free ends of the suspension frame) of the suspension frame during movement of the suspension frame in the transport direction.

[0022] In one embodiment, the guiding device includes a first bottom guide that is generally shaped to follow the bottom profile of the suspension frame. The first bottom guide is used to stabilize the suspension frame to prevent movement of the suspension frame in a rotational direction about the conveying device. The suspension frame is slidably attached to the conveying device. And / or the first bottom guide is used to raise one of the free ends of the suspension frame in the vertical direction (and lower the opposite free end of the suspension frame by a corresponding distance).

[0023] In another embodiment, the guiding device may further include a first top guide for stabilizing the suspension frame to prevent movement of the suspension frame in a rotational direction about the transport direction. Similarly, a second top guide may be provided, configured to stabilize the suspension frame to prevent movement of the suspension frame in a rotational direction about the suspension frame conveyor. A bottom guide may also be provided, its profile designed along the travel direction of the suspension frame. For example, the profile of the guide may be lower at the inlet and gradually rise to a higher profile, thereby pushing the suspension frame upward toward the suspension frame conveyor by tilting it backward and upward. In this way, the vertical position of the free end of the suspension frame can be changed relative to the conveyor, depending on the position of the suspension frame along the profile of the guide.

[0024] The first carrier may include a single hook, more specifically a European hook. This single hook may conform to DIN 5047. In another embodiment, the first carrier may be the same as the second carrier.

[0025] Therefore, a suspension track system is provided that can automatically re-hook carcass portions from the first type of hook to at least one second type of hook without any manual labor. According to the invention, the term "carcass portion" should be understood as, but not limited to, half a pig carcass. Furthermore, the suspension track system facilitates deboning and other processing because, for example, the weight of such a half pig may well exceed 40 kg, making it difficult to process when the carcass is placed on a horizontal conveyor. Suspended carcasses require less operator effort. Moreover, the total deboning output can be significantly increased, for example, since sawing is not required. Therefore, as an example, in the case where the carcass is half a pig, rib removal can be done manually, resulting in ribs that include whole ribs starting from rib number 4, i.e., larger rib portions. This is unlike the usual practice where rib removal requires sawing, for example, cutting from ribs 5 / 6 to ribs 7-9 (as an example), which leaves sharp rib edges and sawdust at the ends of the ribs. This reduces the appeal of the resulting rib product to customers, thus lowering its value. Another advantage of being able to process such half carcasses (e.g., deboning) is that the entire loin can be removed from the carcass portion. Typically, currently, this is done by sawing the middle portion of the half carcass from the leg, leaving a portion of the loin at the leg, which is less valuable than the loin.

[0026] Furthermore, this automatic transfer of carcass portions from one carrier belonging to one processing section to another carrier belonging to a second processing section can be carried out completely automatically, which greatly increases the variety of processing steps available by bypassing certain processing stations or selecting certain processing lines for selected carcass portions from a large number of processing lines.

[0027] In one embodiment, the transfer zone further includes a support guide, such as a tapered guide, which interacts with the rear side (i.e., the side without a tip) of the first and / or second type of hooks when the second carrier engages with the carcass portion and / or when the carcass portion is removed from the first hook to the second hook. This may be meaningful, for example, when the hooks are mounted to a track system in a manner similar to a hinge, thus preventing the hooks from swinging during the transfer of the carcass portion.

[0028] According to a second aspect, a method is provided for transferring a carcass portion from a first carrier to a second carrier, the first carrier being transported by a first overhead conveyor and having a first carcass engagement portion, and the second carrier being transported by a second overhead conveyor and having a second carcass engagement portion, the method comprising the following steps:

[0029] -The carcass portion is supported on the first support member by engaging the carcass portion with the first carcass joint portion.

[0030] - Align the first and second carcass joints vertically.

[0031] - Align the first and second carcass joints horizontally, so that both the first and second carcass joints simultaneously engage with the carcass portion.

[0032] - Tilt the first carcass joint downwards, so that the weight of the carcass gradually transfers from the first carcass joint to the second carcass joint, and

[0033] - Completely remove the first carcass joint so that it is not engaged with the carcass portion.

[0034] The suspended track system may also include:

[0035] A first processing section includes a plurality of spaced-apart first carriers for conveying carcass portions of four-legged slaughter animals. Each of the first carriers includes a free end designed to extend through an opening in the leg of one of the carcass portions, allowing the carcass portion to be at least freely suspended.

[0036] At least one second processing section includes a plurality of spaced-apart second carriers, each of which includes a free end designed to engage with a leg of one of the carcass portions, such that the carcass portion is at least freely suspended.

[0037] A transfer area is located between a first processing section and at least one second processing section.

[0038] The methods also include:

[0039] The movement of the first and second carriers is automatically controlled such that upon reaching the transfer zone, the first and second carriers move synchronously, such that: the first carrier, which carries the carcass portion through the opening on the leg and moves in a first direction, and at least one unloaded second carrier, which moves in a second direction, meet with their respective free ends facing each other. The transfer zone is designed such that: during the movement of the first and second carriers, the relative horizontal distance between the free ends of the first and second carriers shortens until the second carrier engages with the carcass portion, and then the weight of the carcass portion is transferred from the first carrier to the second carrier.

[0040] In one embodiment, the first and second directions may be parallel, with the hook moving in the same direction. In another embodiment, the hooks move in directions that are at an angle to each other, for example, the hooks move in directions that are at a 90-degree angle to each other.

[0041] In one embodiment, the second carrier is arranged to grip the foot of the carcass portion near the leg, wherein the second carrier includes two free ends that are generally parallel, and gripping near the foot may include clamping the leg of the carcass portion between the two free ends.

[0042] In one embodiment, the free end of each of the second carriers is configured to extend through an opening in the leg of the carcass portion, such that the carcass portion is at least freely suspended.

[0043] In one embodiment, the method includes designing a transfer zone such that, upon reaching the transfer zone, the height of the free end of the second carrier is lower than the height of the free end of the first carrier, such that the relative lowering of the free ends causes the free end of the second carrier to pass through an opening in the leg below the free end of the first carrier.

[0044] In one embodiment, the method includes further designing a transfer zone such that the relative height distance between the free ends of the first carrier and the second carrier changes until the height of the free end of the second carrier is higher than the height of the first carrier, thereby causing the weight of the carcass partially loaded to be transferred to the second carrier.

[0045] In one embodiment, the method further includes the step of: after transferring the carcass portion to the second carrier, using a guiding device to guide the first carrier away from the second carrier, thereby making the second carrier the sole carrier for the carcass portion.

[0046] In one embodiment, the method further includes the step of: increasing the relative horizontal distance between the first carrier and the second carrier by interacting with a guiding device until the first carrier is completely separated from the opening on the leg, the guiding device being shaped as an elongated guiding member arranged relative to the first carrier and the second carrier, such that the elongated guiding member interacts with the first carrier and / or the carcass portion as the first carrier moves in a first direction, the interaction forcing the relative horizontal distance between the first carrier and the second carrier to increase until the first carrier is completely separated from the opening on the leg.

[0047] In one embodiment, the method further includes the steps of: using a structure similar to a suspension hook as a first carrier, the suspension hook-like structure including free ends at opposite ends of the suspension hook-like structure, wherein each of the opposite ends carries a carcass portion, wherein at least one second processing section includes two second processing sections, wherein synchronous movement occurs at opposite ends of the suspension hook, wherein the unloaded free ends of the second carriers pass through corresponding openings on the legs of the carcass portions.

[0048] In one embodiment, the transfer step includes transferring the carcass portion from one side of the suspension frame while the other side of the suspension frame is temporarily supported by a second support member.

[0049] In one embodiment, the first carrier and the second carrier are identical.

[0050] Therefore, a method is provided that also allows for fully automated re-hooking, for example, while carcass portions—such as half a pig carcass—are still suspended in an elevated position, with fully automated re-hooking from the suspension frame to the hook. This makes subsequent processing—such as deboning and trimming—easier for the operator compared to placing the carcass on a horizontal transport conveyor. Furthermore, automated transfer of carcass portions from one carrier belonging to one processing line to another carrier belonging to a second processing line is possible. Attached Figure Description

[0051] Embodiments of the present invention will be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0052] Figure 1 This is a schematic perspective view illustrating a transfer system from a suspension hook frame to a single load-bearing member according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0053] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic side view of an embodiment;

[0054] Figure 2BB yes Figure 2 A schematic end view of section BB;

[0055] Figure 2CC yes Figure 2 A schematic end view of section CC;

[0056] Figure 2DD yes Figure 2 A schematic end view of section DD;

[0057] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 From the embodiments Figure 2 A schematic side view taken from the opposite side;

[0058] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A schematic top view;

[0059] Figures 5a to 5h This is a schematic side view illustrating the detailed steps of transferring from a suspension hook frame to a single carrier according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the free end of the single hook approaches the body portion from the side opposite to where the free end of the suspension hook frame is inserted;

[0060] Figures 5i to 5m This is a schematic side view illustrating detailed steps of transferring from a suspension hook frame to a single carrier according to another embodiment of the invention, wherein the free end of the single hook approaches the body portion from the same side as where the free end of the suspension hook frame is inserted;

[0061] Figure 6a This is a schematic end view showing a suspension hook guide according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0062] Figure 6b This is a schematic end view showing a suspension hook guide according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0063] Figure 7 This is a schematic side view showing a single hook according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0064] Figure 8 This is a schematic side view showing a single hook according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0065] Figure 9 This is a schematic side view showing a single hook according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0066] Figure 10 This is a schematic side view showing a single hook according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0067] Figures 11a to 11d This is a schematic side view illustrating the detailed steps of transferring from a single carrier to a single carrier according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0068] Figures 12a to 12d This is a schematic side view illustrating the detailed steps of transferring from a single carrier to a single carrier according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0069] Figure 13a and Figure 13b This is a schematic side view showing an embodiment of a modified European hook that is angled in a plane perpendicular to the transport direction of the conveyor;

[0070] Figure 14 This illustrates an embodiment according to the present invention. Figure 7 A schematic side view of the improved European hook in its overhead conveyor;

[0071] Figure 15 It shows Figure 14 A schematic end view of the wheeled hoisting frame of the improved European hook, in which the body is suspended on the hook;

[0072] Figure 16 This is a schematic end view showing the end profile of a single hook tip according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0073] Figure 17 This is a schematic top view illustrating the transfer of a carrier according to an embodiment of the invention, wherein the body portion can be sorted to an optional processing line; and

[0074] Figure 18 This is a schematic side view illustrating an embodiment of a single hook according to the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0075] Reference Figures 1 to 4 as well as Figure 2BB , Figure 2CC and Figure 2DD An embodiment of a suspended track transport system 1 according to the present invention is shown, which is used to transfer carcass portions 17 from a suspension frame conveyor 10 to a single carrier transport line 12. The suspension frame conveyor and the single carrier transport line are mounted to a frame (not shown). The carcass portions enter a transfer zone 24 from each free end 22 of each suspension frame (first carrier) 15.

[0076] (See details) Figure 5a A carcass portion is suspended. The carcass portion can be a right side and a left side of the slaughtered animal, after the viscera have been removed and it has been divided in half along the spine. Alternatively, the anterior end of the carcass portion or other carcass portions can be removed before entering the transfer area on the suspension rack transport line. A carcass portion is suspended through an opening 18 located on the hind leg of the slaughtered animal (see...). Figure 15The carcass is suspended. One of the bearing ends 22 of the suspension hook 15 passes through the opening, so that the carcass portion is suspended on the suspension hook. The animal's head can still be attached to the right or left side of the animal being slaughtered.

[0077] The carcass section on the suspension hook conveyor 10 is in Figure 1 It is transported in the direction indicated by 16 and passes between two individual carrier conveyors, such as... Figure 1 The area shown on the left is marked 13', and another single-carrying conveyor is as follows: Figure 1 The area shown on the right is labeled 13". A single carrier conveyor travels in the direction labeled 26. In transfer zone 24, direction 16 is parallel to direction 26, and both are oriented in the same direction. The carrier (second carrier) 40 used on each single carrier conveyor can be a standard European hook or a modified European hook 40 (see details). Figures 7 to 10 and Figure 18 A wheeled sling assembly 150 is used to mount individual load cells onto individual hook conveyors 13', 13" which allows the individual load cells to rotate at least in a direction transverse to the direction of travel 26. The transport system for suspending the hook conveyor 10 and the individual load cell conveyors 13', 13" can be of an existing type, and will not be described in detail unless an improvement is made to the existing transport system type.

[0078] The individual transport speeds of the respective conveyors 10, 13', and 13" can be set using a control system 60, which can be electrically connected to other systems (not shown) located upstream or downstream of the transfer system 1. This control system can adjust the speed of the individual carrier conveyor 13' so that the end 41 of the individual carrier 40 of the "left" individual carrier conveyor is aligned with... Figure 1 The opening 18 shown on the left side of the carcass corresponds to the position of the opening on the hind leg. Simultaneously, the control system can adjust the speed of the individual carrier conveyor 13" so that the end 41 of the individual carrier 40 of the "right" individual carrier conveyor is aligned with... Figure 1 The position of the opening 18 on the hind leg of the carcass shown on the right corresponds to this. Speed ​​adjustment can take the form of one conveyor decelerating or one conveyor accelerating while keeping the speed of the other conveyor constant, or a combination of these actions.

[0079] The suspended track transport system 1 may have means for changing the relative distance between carriers (first carrier or second carrier) by changing the horizontal distance and / or vertical distance between the conveyors. In one embodiment, the suspension frame conveyor 10 may have a first vertical bend 80, a second vertical bend 81, a third vertical bend 83, and a fourth vertical bend 84, thereby shortening and then lengthening the relative vertical distance between the suspension frame conveyor 10 and the first carrier conveyor 13', and conversely, lengthening and then shortening the distance between the suspension frame conveyor 10 and the second carrier conveyor 13'. The second carrier conveyor 13' is configured to vertically change its path and has a lifting section 85 to raise the second carrier to conform to the tilting movement of the suspension frame when the suspension frame conveyor approaches the first carrier conveyor 13'. The lifting section 85 has a corresponding lifting wheeled sling guide 86 to stabilize the vertical position of the wheeled sling 150 in a direction parallel to the transport direction 26 of the second carrier conveyor 13'. The upward tilting spacing or angle corresponds to the desired vertical height change, which is denoted as h. Of course, the corresponding downward flip will be achieved in a similar way through the downward tilting section of the conveyor.

[0080] The suspension frame conveyor 10 moves downward at position 87, where the free end of the first support member is aligned with one free end of the suspension frame 15, and the free end of the second support member is aligned with the other free end of the suspension frame. In this way, the weight of the carcass portion 17 is transferred from the free end of the suspension frame to the corresponding free ends of the first and second support members.

[0081] The suspension frame conveyor 10 is still moving upward at position 88, which is synchronized with the rising section 85 of the second carrier conveyor 13". In the remaining part of the transfer zone 24, the suspension frame conveyor remains at the raised height.

[0082] exist Figure 5a An embodiment of a suspension hook 15 for use in transfer system 1 is shown. The suspension hooks are adapted to transport carcass portions 17, wherein each of the suspension hooks may have a free end 22 designed to extend through an opening 18 in the leg of the carcass portion, allowing the carcass portion to be at least freely suspended. The suspension hook 15 has an intermediate connection 25, which is attached to the transport device 35 by means of an extension 30. As previously mentioned, the suspension hooks may be of a standard type.

[0083] Figures 7 to 10 and Figure 18 An embodiment of a single carrier 40 that can be used in transfer system 1 is shown. (As...) Figure 7 and Figure 8As shown, this carrier can be comparable to a standard European hook and can use the same conveying system as a European hook, but the carrier preferably has an elongated and substantially horizontally extending end 41. This end can be relatively long (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 7 (as shown) or shorter (e.g., as shown) Figure 8 (As shown). The bottom 29 of the support member 40 is used to place the legs of the carcass portion, so that the weight of the carcass portion is substantially suspended directly below the rod 42 of the support member. This rod is connected to a conveyor propulsion connection portion of the support member, which is not shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0084] Figure 9 , Figure 10 and Figure 18 Other embodiments of a single carrier 40 that can be used in transfer system 1 are shown. (Compared to...) Figure 7 and Figure 8 Compared to the carrier shown, the transition from the curved carrier portion to the end 43 is gentler (smaller bending radius), and the end itself can point upward at an angle of, for example, 20 to 45 degrees. Figure 10 The carrier shown has a substantially straight transition portion 44 from the curved carrier portion to the end, and the end may be long and sloping upward.

[0085] Figure 14 and Figure 15 It shows Figure 7 The carrier 40 is mounted on a wheeled sling assembly 150 attached to a single hook conveyor 13', 13" of the conveyor. This wheeled sling may be of the type disclosed in WO2014007607 A1. The carrier 40 is pivotally attached to the fork 50 via a crossbar 51. The crossbar is rotatably held on the fork via a hinge point 52. The crossbar rotates about a horizontal axis. The fork is rotatably attached to a wheeled sling 53 of the conveyor. The fork rotates about a vertical axis. The wheeled sling can slide along a conveyor track 54, for example, using a rotatable wheel 55 or the like. A cam 56, having a shape corresponding to a cam driver (not shown) arranged along the single hook conveyor 13', 13" of the conveyor, can transmit rotational motion to the fork 50 at a desired position along the conveyor.

[0086] Figure 13a and Figure 13b This illustrates the orientation of the carrier 40 in a direction perpendicular to the transport direction 26 of the individual carrier conveyor (see [reference]). Figure 1 An embodiment tilted in the direction of ) . As described above Figure 14 and Figure 15 Disclosed, the individual carrier 40 is pivotable. The carrier is pivotally attached to the fork 50 via a crossbar 51. This is to achieve pivoting movement in the direction of the end 41 (e.g., Figure 13aAs shown), the tilting guide 49 and the rod portion 42 of the carrier (for example, see...) Figure 7 and Figure 8 This allows the support member's rod to be angled relative to the crossbar 51 at the desired angle. In this way, the carcass can be raised (e.g., as the horizontal position of the carcass changes) Figure 13a As shown, the displacement occurs in the vertical direction. An example where the above is expected is that the carcass must slide down from the end 41 to the bottom 29 of the support 40 after being transferred.

[0087] In another embodiment, in order to achieve pivotal movement in a direction away from end 41 (e.g. Figure 13b As shown), the tilting guide 49 engages with the rod 42 of the support member, thereby tilting the rod of the support member relative to the crossbar 51 to the desired angle position. In this way, the carcass can be raised (e.g., as the horizontal position of the carcass changes). Figure 13b As shown, the displacement is in the vertical direction. An example where the above is desired is that the carcass must slide away from the end 41 from the carrier 40 to remove the carcass from the carrier. The tilting guide may be tapered to allow the carrier 40 to tilt gradually. The tilting position at the desired angle can be used to facilitate insertion of the end 41 into the opening of the carcass, and / or to facilitate removal of the end from the opening during carcass transfer operations.

[0088] Figures 5a to 5h The steps involved in transferring the carcass portion 17 from the suspension hook 15 (first support) to a pair of individual support members 40 (second support members) are shown above. Figures 7 to 10 and Figure 18 The suspension hook frame and individual load-bearing components are described. The suspension hook frame conveyor 10 passes between two individual load-bearing component conveyors (not shown, but see above for details). Figures 1 to 4 (Description of the previous section). The individual transport speed of each conveyor can be set using the control system described above. The free end 22 of the suspension frame is inserted into the opening 18 on the leg of the carcass section 17 (see description of the previous section). Figure 15 This allows the carcass to hang freely on the free end of the suspension hook frame. The free end of a single hook 41 is inserted in a direction opposite to the direction in which one or more free ends 22 of the suspension hook frame 15 are inserted into the opening 18.

[0089] Figure 5aThe initial steps of aligning the position of the free end 22 of the suspension frame 15 with the ends 41 of the individual carriers 40 on both sides of the suspension frame are shown. Alignment can be achieved by adjusting the speed of the suspension frame conveyor and / or the individual carrier conveyor. The control system may include a vision system (not shown) for detecting the position of the respective openings 18 of the carcass section. In this case, the control system uses the position information to adjust the conveyor speed. For example, a tapered guide 70 (as described below) can be used. Figure 11b and Figure 11c (As shown) The end 41 of each individual bearing member 40 is pushed into the corresponding opening 18. The weight of the body portion 17 here is borne only by the free end 22 of the suspension frame 15. The vertical position of the end 41 is lower than the vertical position of the free end.

[0090] exist Figure 5b and Figure 5c In this configuration, the end 41 of each individual carrier 40 has been inserted into the corresponding opening 18. The vertical position of the free end 22 is now lowered relative to the end 41. This can be achieved by lowering the suspension frame conveyor path or by utilizing guides 45, 46, 47 and / or 48 (as will be described below). Figure 6a and Figure 6b This is achieved as shown. In preparation for the transfer operation, the guide raises the suspension frame to a higher vertical position, and as end 41 is inserted into opening 18, the guide gradually lowers the suspension frame. The guide also stabilizes the suspension frame, preventing it from swinging in any plane.

[0091] Figure 5d The step shown is that the end 41 is fully inserted into the opening 18, wherein the free end 22 of the suspension hook has been lowered so that the weight of the body portion 17 rests entirely on the individual carriers 40.

[0092] Figure 5e The diagram shows the step where the free ends of the suspension frame are tilted, with one free end (left free end in the figure) pointing downwards and the other free end (right free end in the figure) pointing upwards. The weight of the body section 17 still rests entirely on the individual load-bearing members 40. Figure 5f As shown, the leftmost carcass portion 17 can now be completely removed from the lower free end of the suspension hook. This can be done using the tapered guide 70 (see below). Figure 11b and Figure 11c The carcass portion is pushed away from the suspension frame, and / or this is achieved via a single carrier conveyor path that is offset outward relative to the suspension frame conveyor.

[0093] Figure 5gThis illustrates another step where the free ends of the suspension frame have been tilted, with one free end (the left free end in the figure, now detached from the carcass section) pointing upwards and the other free end (the right free end in the figure, the only free end of the suspension frame supporting the carcass section) pointing downwards. The weight of the carcass section 17 still rests entirely on the single rightmost support member 40. Figure 5h As shown, the rightmost carcass portion 17 can now be completely removed from the lower free end of the suspension hook. This can be done using the tapered guide 70 (see below). Figure 11b and Figure 11c The carcass portion is pushed away from the suspension frame, and / or this is achieved via a single carrier conveyor path that is offset outward relative to the suspension frame conveyor.

[0094] Figures 5i to 5m The steps involved in transferring the carcass portion 17 from the suspension hook 15 (first support) to a pair of individual support members 40 (second support members) are shown, and these steps are similar to those described in the reference. Figures 5a to 5h The steps described differ in that the free end of a single hook 41 has an opening 18 on the leg of the carcass portion 17 where one or more free ends 22 of the suspension hook 15 are inserted (see [link]). Figure 15 Insert in the same direction as the previous steps. Except for some steps that are omitted due to their similarity to those shown earlier, the steps correspond to the reference... Figures 5a to 5h The steps are shown.

[0095] Other embodiments are in Figures 11a to 11d and Figures 12a to 12d As shown in the diagram. Here, the transfer of the carcass portion 17 is from the first single-carrying conveyor (similar to...). Figures 1 to 4 The two single-carrier conveyors 13' and 13") shown in the diagram transmit a single carrier 15' (first carrier) to another single carrier 40 (second carrier) in the second single-carrier conveyor. Figures 11a to 11d In the latter case, the support element is similar, being a European hook variant with longer end portions 41, 41'. Figures 12a to 12d In this case, the carrier is a standard European hook used as the first carrier and a variant of the European hook with a longer end portion 41 used as the second carrier.

[0096] Figure 11aThe initial steps of transferring from one individual carrier to another according to an embodiment of the invention are shown. The positions of the ends 41', 41 of each individual carrier 15', 40 are aligned in the transport direction of the individual carrier. Alignment can be achieved by adjusting the speed of one or both of the first and second individual carrier conveyors. The control system may include a vision system (not shown) for detecting the respective openings 18 of the carcass portion (see...). Figure 15 The position of the carcass carrier 15' (first carrier) is such that the vertical position of the bottom 29' of the leg of the carcass is higher than the vertical position of the end of the single carrier 40 (second carrier), and the horizontal distance between the bottom and the end can also be quite large.

[0097] exist Figure 11b The diagram illustrates how the end 41 of the second carrier 40 is inserted into the opening 18 using the guide 70. The vertical distance between the end 41 and the bottom 29' of the first carrier 15' has been shortened, but the end 41 remains below the bottom 29'. Vertical movement can be achieved by altering the conveyor path in the vertical direction or by utilizing the guides 45, 46, 47 and / or 48 (as will be described below). Figure 6a and Figure 6b (As shown) and / or achieved by using a tapered guide 70, which shifts the second carrier 40 to the right as the first and second carriers travel in the transport direction. It should be noted that simultaneous displacement of the carriers in both the vertical and horizontal directions must be compensated. The entire weight of the body portion 17 still rests on the first carrier 15'.

[0098] Figure 11c This illustrates how to begin transferring the carcass portion 17 by pressing the carcass portion from the first support member 15' toward the second support member 40. The tilting guide 49 (see previously described) Figure 13a and Figure 13b This can be used to tilt one or both carriers perpendicularly to the transport direction of each conveyor. This can be accomplished by using a carcass guide (not shown) acting directly on the carcass portion alone or in combination with the tilt guide 49. The result is that the bottom 29' of the first carrier is lowered, and / or the end 41 of the second carrier is raised, so that the weight of the carcass portion is gradually transferred to the second carrier. At the end of this step, the entire weight of the carcass portion rests on the second carrier.

[0099] exist Figure 11dFigure 6d shows the steps where the carcass portion is pushed to the bottom 29 of the second carrier 40 and the first carrier 15' is completely removed from the opening 18 of the carcass portion. Figure 6d shows the end 41 of the second carrier separated from the bottom 29' of the first carrier in a horizontal plane. The first and second conveyors can now continue to separate the target.

[0100] exist Figures 12a to 12d The steps are the same as those described above. Figures 11a to 11d The steps described are the same, except that the first carrier is a standard European hook and the second carrier is a variant of a European hook with an extended end portion 41.

[0101] Figure 6a and Figure 6b An embodiment of a guiding device that can be used in all embodiments of the transfer system according to the present invention is shown. Figure 6a and Figure 6b Guides for stabilizing, raising, and / or tilting the suspension frame 15 are shown. A first bottom guide 45 is generally shaped to follow the bottom profile of the suspension frame. The first bottom guide 45 can be used to stabilize the suspension frame to prevent movement of the suspension frame in the direction of rotation about the suspension frame conveyor 35, and / or to raise and / or tilt the free end 22 of the suspension frame in the vertical direction. Each free end can be lowered or raised, but when the suspension frame is tilted, the other free end will make a corresponding and opposite movement. Figure 6b The second bottom guide 47 shown can also have a similar purpose. Figure 6a The first top guide 46 shown can be used to stabilize the suspension hook frame to prevent it from moving in the rotational direction about the suspension hook frame conveyor 35. Similarly, Figure 6b The second top guide 48 shown can be used to stabilize the suspension frame to prevent it from moving in the rotational direction around the suspension frame conveyor 35. The profiles of all the bottom guides 45, 47 can be aligned with the direction of travel of the suspension frame. For example, the profile of the guide can be lower at the guide entrance and gradually rise to a higher profile, thereby pushing the suspension frame upward toward the suspension frame conveyor 35 by tilting it backward and upward. In this way, the vertical position of the free end 22 of the suspension frame can be changed relative to the conveyor, depending on the position of the suspension frame along the profile of the guide.

[0102] Figure 17The illustration schematically depicts how a carcass portion transported along transport direction B on a first single-carrier conveyor transport device 13”' is transferred in transfer T to a second single-carrier conveyor transport device 13”' moving along the same transport direction B. Any of the previously described embodiments for transferring from a single hook to a single hook can be used. To change the transport direction, a turntable device (not shown) can be used.

[0103] The above description of possible embodiments of the present invention should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention. Factors such as cost, mechanical stability, and component weight will determine which solution to choose in each case.

Claims

1. A suspended rail transport system, the suspended rail transport system comprising: • A first carrier, transported in the transport direction by a first overhead conveyor and having a first carcass engagement portion, is arranged to selectively carry the carcass portion by engaging it with the first carcass engagement portion. • A second carrier, transported by a second overhead conveyor and having a second carcass engagement portion, is arranged to selectively carry the carcass portion by engaging it with the second carcass engagement portion. • A vertical alignment device for aligning the first carcass joint portion with the second carcass joint portion in the vertical direction. • A horizontal alignment device for aligning the first carcass joint portion with the second carcass joint portion in a horizontal direction, such that both the first carcass joint portion and the second carcass joint portion simultaneously engage with the carcass portion. • A tilting device for tilting the first carcass joint downwards, such that the weight of the carcass portion is gradually transferred from the first carcass joint to the second carcass joint, and • A removal device for completely removing the first carcass joint so as not to engage with the carcass portion.

2. The suspended track transport system according to claim 1, further comprising: • A first processing section comprising a plurality of spaced-apart first carriers for conveying carcass portions of a four-legged slaughter animal, wherein each of the first carriers includes a first free end designed to extend through an opening in the leg of one of the carcass portions, such that the carcass portion is at least freely suspended. • At least one second processing section, the second processing section comprising a plurality of spaced-apart second carriers, wherein each of the second carriers includes a second free end, the second free end being designed to engage with a leg of one of the carcass portions such that the carcass portion is at least freely suspended. The suspended track transportation system further includes: • A transfer area located between the first processing section and the at least one second processing section. • A control device for automatically controlling the movement of the first and second carriers, such that upon reaching the transfer zone, the first and second carriers move synchronously, so as to: • A first carrier, moving in a first direction and carrying the carcass portion through the opening on the leg, and at least one unloaded second carrier, moving in a second direction, meet with the first free end of the first carrier and the second free end of the second carrier facing each other. The transfer zone is designed such that during the movement of the first carrier and the second carrier: • The relative horizontal distance between the first free end of the first carrier and the second free end of the second carrier shortens until the second carrier engages with the body portion, then • The weight of the carcass portion is transferred from the first support member to the second support member.

3. The suspended track transportation system according to claim 2, wherein, The second free end of the second carrier is configured to extend through the opening in the leg of the carcass portion, such that the carcass portion is at least freely suspended.

4. The suspended track transportation system according to claim 2, • The transfer zone is further designed such that, upon reaching the transfer zone, the height of the second free end of the second carrier is lower than the height of the first free end of the first carrier, such that the height difference between the relative positions of the first free end and the second free end causes the second free end of the second carrier to pass through the opening on the leg below the first free end of the first carrier.

5. The suspended track transportation system according to claim 4, wherein, The transfer zone is also designed such that the relative height distance between the first free end of the first carrier and the second free end of the second carrier changes until the height of the second free end of the second carrier is higher than the height of the first carrier, so that the weight of the partial load of the carcass is transferred to the second carrier.

6. The suspended track transport system according to claim 2, further comprising a guiding device for tilting the first carrier and guiding the first carrier away from the second carrier after the carcass portion is transferred to the second carrier, such that the second carrier becomes the sole carrier for the carcass portion.

7. The suspended track transportation system according to claim 6, wherein, The guiding device includes an elongated guiding member arranged relative to the first carrier and the second carrier, such that when the first carrier moves in the first direction, the elongated guiding member interacts with the first carrier and / or the carcass portion, the interaction causing the first carcass joint of the first carrier to be forced downward.

8. The suspended track transport system according to claim 6 or 7, wherein, The guiding device includes an elongated guiding member arranged relative to the first carrier and the second carrier, such that when the first carrier moves in the first direction, the elongated guiding member interacts with the first carrier and / or the carcass portion, the interaction forcing the relative horizontal distance between the first carrier and the second carrier to increase until the first carrier is completely separated from the opening on the leg.

9. The suspended track transport system according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein, The first carrier is slidably attached to the first track guide, and the second carrier is slidably attached to the second track guide, wherein the transfer area is defined by means of the internal structure of the first track guide and / or the second track guide, such that the relative horizontal distance between the first free end of the first carrier and the second free end of the second carrier changes.

10. The suspended track transportation system according to claim 9, wherein, The transfer zone is further defined by an internal structure at the height distance between the first track guide and / or the second track guide, such that the relative height distance between the first free end of the first carrier and the second free end of the second carrier changes.

11. The suspended track transport system according to any one of claims 2 to 7, wherein, The first carrier includes a structure similar to a suspension hook, the suspension hook-like structure including first free ends at opposite ends of the suspension hook-like structure, wherein each of the opposite ends carries a carcass portion, wherein the at least one second processing section includes two second processing sections, wherein the synchronous movement occurs at the opposite ends of the suspension hook, wherein the unloaded second free ends of the second carrier pass through corresponding openings on the legs of the carcass portion.

12. The suspended track transportation system according to claim 2, wherein, The first carrier includes a hook.

13. The suspended track transportation system according to claim 12, wherein, The hook is a European-style hook.

14. The suspended track transport system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The first support member is the same as the second support member.

15. The suspended track transport system according to claim 12, wherein, The transfer area also includes a support guide for interacting with the rear side of the first and / or second hooks when the second carrier engages with the carcass portion and / or when the carcass portion is removed from the first hook to the second hook.

16. The suspended track transport system according to claim 15, wherein, The supporting guide is a tapered guide.

17. A method for transferring a carcass portion from a first carrier to a second carrier, the first carrier being transported by a first overhead conveyor and having a first carcass engagement portion, the second carrier being transported by a second overhead conveyor and having a second carcass engagement portion, the method comprising the steps of: -The carcass portion is carried on the first carrier by engaging it with the first carcass joint. - Align the first carcass joint with the second carcass joint vertically. Align the first carcass joint portion with the second carcass joint portion horizontally so that both the first and second carcass joint portions simultaneously engage with the carcass portion. - Tilt the first carcass joint downwards, so that the weight of the carcass portion gradually transfers from the first carcass joint to the second carcass joint, and - Completely remove the first carcass joint so that it is not engaged with the carcass portion.

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