Food slicer

Abstract

A food slicing machine is provided to eliminate the problem that cutting residue is easily generated and the utilization rate of the cut food is very poor in a food slicing machine using a band saw to cut frozen meat blocks and the like. The slicing machine (1) of the invention has a cutting device (2) that cuts food (M) into thin pieces and a carrying-in device (3) that feeds the food (M) into the cutting device (2). The cutting device (2) has a bed plate (17) that can abut against the feed start end side of the food (M). The gripping mechanism (31) that constitutes the carrying-in device (3) has an end gripping body (43) that grips the feed end side of the food (M) and a push plate (42) that abuts against the feed end side of the food (M). A control device (113) is provided that, in the final cutting stage of the food (M), sandwiches the food (M) with the bed plate (17) and the push plate (42) in a state in which the end gripping body (43) is separated from the food (M) and cuts the food (M) with the cutting device (2).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a food slicer that uses a bandsaw to cut frozen meat chunks and other food products. Background Technology

[0002] In the prior art, slicers that use a bandsaw to sequentially cut frozen meat blocks to obtain thin slices of meat are known to the public. In such slicers, a gripping mechanism (see Patent Documents 1 and 2, etc.) is provided in the feeding device for feeding the frozen meat blocks into the bandsaw, which has claws on the feed end side of the frozen meat blocks.

[0003] In this case, after the gripping mechanism inserts its claws into the feed terminal side of the frozen meat block and grips the frozen meat block, the frozen meat block is fed out in a predetermined amount in the direction of the band saw through the feeding device, and then the band saw is used to cut the frozen meat block out in sequence starting from the feed start end side.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Korean Patent No. 10-1592482

[0007] Patent Document 2: Korean Patent Application Publication No. 10-2021-0115311 Summary of the Invention

[0008] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0009] However, in the above-mentioned traditional structure, since the cutting is performed while the frozen meat is gripped or held by the claws of the gripping mechanism, large pieces of cut residue are easily generated, resulting in a very low utilization rate of the frozen meat when it is cut into thin slices.

[0010] means for solving problems

[0011] The technical challenge of this invention is to provide a food slicer that addresses and improves upon the aforementioned situation.

[0012] This invention relates to a food slicing machine, comprising a cutting device for cutting food into thin slices and a feeding device for feeding the food into the cutting device. The feeding device includes a gripping mechanism comprising an end gripper for gripping the food at its feeding end and a push plate that abuts against the feeding end of the food. Additionally, it includes a pad plate opposite the push plate that abuts against the feeding start end of the food. A control device is also included, which, during the final cutting stage of the food, clamps the food with the pad plate and the push plate while the end gripper is disengaged from the food, and then cuts the food using the cutting device.

[0013] In the food slicer of the present invention, the gripping mechanism may further have a mid-course gripping body for gripping the mid-course feeding portion of the food.

[0014] In the food slicer of the present invention, the control device may also cause the intermediate gripper to leave the food when the food is fed into the cutting device.

[0015] In the food slicer of the present invention, a pair of switching devices may also be provided for gripping the end gripper and the intermediate gripper. The pair of switching devices are configured separately so that the operator can operate them with both hands.

[0016] In the food slicer of the present invention, a cutting drive actuator for driving the blade of the cutting device and a detection device for detecting the load value of the cutting drive actuator may also be provided; when the detection result of the detection device exceeds a preset threshold, the control device determines that it is time to replace the blade.

[0017] The food slicer of the present invention may further include: a cutting drive actuator for driving the blade of the cutting device; a measuring device for measuring the cumulative driving time of the cutting drive actuator, the number of cuts by the blade, or the processed weight of the food; and the control device may also determine that it is time to replace the blade when the measurement result of the measuring device exceeds a preset threshold.

[0018] In the food slicer of the present invention, the cutting device is a band saw with its blade coiled around a pair of saw wheels; it has a cutting drive actuator mounted on the driven side of the pair of saw wheels, a tension applying device mounted on the driven side of the pair of saw wheels, and a state detection device for detecting the state of the tension applying device; the control device may also be configured to forcibly stop at least the cutting drive actuator when the detection result of the state detection device exceeds a preset threshold value.

[0019] In the food slicer of the present invention, there is a conveyor belt as a transport device for transporting the cut meat slices to the subsequent process; the control device may also reverse the conveyor belt after the meat slices fall onto the conveyor belt, so that the subsequent meat slices fall onto the conveyor belt, thereby causing the subsequent meat slices to partially overlap with the previous meat slices.

[0020] In the food slicer of the present invention, the cutting device has a blade that is a band saw coiled around a pair of saw wheels; the cutting device has a saw wheel housing for housing the pair of saw wheels, and a receiving plate extending to each of the saw wheels can be installed inside the saw wheel housing.

[0021] In the food slicer of the present invention, the blade of the cutting device is a band saw coiled around a pair of saw wheels; the cutting device includes a saw wheel housing with a door for housing the pair of saw wheels, a cutting drive actuator mounted on the driven side of the pair of saw wheels, and a locking actuator for locking the door so that it cannot be opened or closed; the control device may also be configured to release the door by driving the locking actuator after the cutting drive actuator stops driving and a predetermined time has elapsed.

[0022] In the food slicer of the present invention, the blade of the cutting device is a band saw coiled around a pair of saw wheels, which has a cutting drive actuator mounted on the driven side of the pair of saw wheels; the control device can be set to determine that the operation is completed and stop the driving of the cutting drive actuator when the gripping mechanism moves back to the initial position and is put on hold without any operation before the end of a predetermined time.

[0023] In the food slicer of the present invention, there is a conveyor belt as a transport device for transporting the cut meat slices to a subsequent process; the pusher plate that lays the meat slices on the conveyor belt can be configured to be inclined and have its wide plane facing the direction of the conveyor belt.

[0024] In the food slicer of the present invention, the cutting device is a band saw with its blade coiled around a pair of saw wheels; the control device can be set to calculate the second current position of the end gripper when cutting the remaining part of the food based on the position of the end gripper closest to the final segment of the band saw, the first current position of the end gripper when the food begins to abut the pad, and a temporary setting value of the thickness of the food in the feeding direction; and calculate the distance between the band saw and the pad based on the second current position and the third current position of the end gripper when the food abuts the pad again.

[0025] In the food slicer of the present invention, the control device can be set to calculate the fourth current position of the end gripper when cutting the remaining part of the food based on the final end position, the third current position, and the distance between the band saw and the pad; cut the food according to a set thickness equivalent to the distance between the band saw and the pad, so that the end gripper moves to the final end position.

[0026] The effects of the invention

[0027] According to the present invention, since the food is clamped by the pad and the push plate in the final cutting stage of the food, while the end gripper is disengaged from the food, and the food is cut by the cutting device, the remaining portion of the food can be minimized and the utilization rate of the food can be improved compared with the conventional structure in which the gripping mechanism clamps or grips the frozen meat block for cutting. Attached Figure Description

[0028] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional view of the slicer from the left front.

[0029] Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional view of the slicer from the right-side front.

[0030] Figure 3 This is the rear view of the slicer.

[0031] Figure 4 This is a sectional view of the upper side of the cutting device.

[0032] Figure 5 This is an enlarged front view of the area near the exposed part of the band saw.

[0033] Figure 6 This is a left-side view of the slicer.

[0034] Figure 7 This is a plan view of a slicer without the cutting device.

[0035] Figure 8 This is a plan view of a slicer with the cutting device and left and right guide mechanisms omitted from the guide housing.

[0036] Figure 9 This is a plan view of a slicer after omitting the cutting device, gripping mechanism, and left and right guide mechanisms.

[0037] Figure 10 (a)(b)(c) are three-dimensional diagrams of the gripping mechanism.

[0038] Figure 11 This is the front view of the gripping mechanism.

[0039] Figure 12 This is a functional block diagram of the air compressor circuit and controller.

[0040] Figure 13 (a)(b)(c)(d) in the diagram are an example of the cutting order of frozen meat pieces.

[0041] Figure 14 (e)(f)(g)(h) is an example diagram showing the cutting order of frozen meat pieces.

[0042] Figure 15 (i)(j)(k)(l) is an example diagram representing the cutting order of frozen meat pieces.

[0043] Figure 16 (m)(n)(o) in the diagram is an example of the cutting order of frozen meat pieces.

[0044] Figure 17 This is a functional block diagram of the air compressor circuit and controller in other examples.

[0045] Figure 18 This is an enlarged 3D view of a slicer showing the push plate and stop bar.

[0046] Figure 19 This is an enlarged plan view of a slicer showing the push plate and stop bar.

[0047] Figure 20 (a)(b)(c)(d)(e)(f) are other example diagrams showing the cutting order of frozen meat pieces. Detailed Implementation

[0048] The embodiments embodied in the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. (Refer to...) Figures 1-3 and Figure 6 The following description provides an overview of the food slicer 1 (hereinafter referred to as "slicer 1"). Furthermore, although terms indicating specific directions or positions (e.g., "front," "inside," "left," "right," etc.) are used in the following description, these are based on the orientation of the operator using the slicer 1. These terms are used for ease of explanation and are not intended to limit the technical scope of the present invention.

[0049] like Figures 1-3 and Figure 6 As shown, the slicer 1 of the embodiment has a cutting device 2 for cutting a frozen meat block M, which is an example of food, into thin slices, a conveying device 3 for feeding the frozen meat block M into the cutting device 2, and a conveying device 4 for conveying the cut meat slices S to subsequent processes.

[0050] In this embodiment, an infeed device 3 is arranged on the left side of the machine 15, an outfeed device 4 is arranged on the front right side, and a cutting device 2 is arranged on the inner right side. In this case, the food to be cut is mainly edible meat (especially frozen meat chunks M), but semi-thawed meat chunks, raw meat, or processed meat are not excluded. However, the slicer 1 can also be used for foods other than edible meat such as frozen fish or crustaceans.

[0051] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the cutting device 2 includes: a saw wheel housing 11 erected on the inner right side of the machine base 15; a pair of saw wheels 12 and 13 rotatably disposed within the saw wheel housing 11; and a band saw 14 mounted on the pair of saw wheels 12 and 13. The band saw 14 is an endless ring and is flexible. A cutting blade (not shown) is formed on the rear end of the band saw 14. The band saw 14 constitutes the cutting body of the cutting device 2.

[0052] The saw wheel housing 11 is generally hollow and U-shaped. The upper saw wheel 12 is rotatably supported by an axle in the upper part of the saw wheel housing 11, and the lower saw wheel 13 is rotatably supported by an axle in the lower part of the saw wheel housing 11. A portion of the band saw 14 is exposed in the recess 16 located in the middle of the upper and lower parts of the saw wheel housing 11. The exposed portion of the band saw 14 is used to cut the frozen meat block M.

[0053] like Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown, a pad 17 is installed on the recess 16 of the saw wheel housing 11, which can abut against the feeding start end of the frozen meat block M. The mounting position of the pad 17 is configured to be adjustable along the feeding direction (left-right direction) of the frozen meat block M. In addition, the pad 17 is not limited to being mounted on the cutting device 2, but can also be mounted on the conveying device 4, or on the machine base 15. The pad 17 only needs to be able to face the push plate 42 of the gripping mechanism 31 described later.

[0054] like Figure 2 As shown, a saw wheel motor 18 is housed below the unloading device 4 inside the machine base 15. The motor shaft of the saw wheel motor 18 is linked to the support shaft of the lower saw wheel 13 via a pulley belt drive system 19. The lower saw wheel 13 rotates under the drive of the saw wheel motor 18, causing the band saw 14 to rotate around it. In this case, the exposed portion of the band saw 14 moves downwards. The saw wheel motor 18 constitutes a cutting drive actuator for driving the blade (band saw 14) of the cutting device 2. In this embodiment, the lower saw wheel 13 is the driving side, and the upper saw wheel 12 is the driven side.

[0055] Although not illustrated, the bottom of the saw wheel housing 11 has an opening. Below this opening is an upward-opening box-shaped collection bin 20 for collecting meat scraps (minced meat), etc. Scrapers 21, 21 are installed inside the saw wheel housing 11, abutting against or close to the outer periphery of the corresponding saw wheels 12, 13. Each scraper 21, 21 slides in contact with the outer periphery of the rotating saw wheels 12, 13, scraping off the meat scraps, etc., adhering to that periphery. The scraped meat scraps, etc., fall through the bottom opening of the saw wheel housing 11 into the collection bin 20, where they are collected and recycled.

[0056] like Figure 4 As shown, a lifting cylinder 22 is also disposed in the upper part of the saw wheel housing 11. This cylinder acts as a tension adjustment actuator and can support the upper saw wheel 12 by moving up and down. The support shaft of the upper saw wheel 12 is rotatably supported on the rod of the lifting cylinder 22. The tension of the band saw 14, which is wound around the upper and lower saw wheels 12 and 13, is adjusted by the up-and-down movement of the upper saw wheel 12 in conjunction with the extension and retraction of the lifting cylinder 22. In this embodiment, the lifting cylinder 22 is a pneumatic cylinder.

[0057] In the lifting cylinder 22 of the embodiment, a stroke sensor 118 is provided for detecting its extension and retraction (stroke amount) (see reference). Figure 12 The stroke sensor 118 is electrically connected to the controller 113, which serves as a control device described later. The lifting cylinder 22 constitutes a tension applying device disposed on the driven upper saw wheel 12 side of a pair of saw wheels 12, 13. The stroke sensor 118 constitutes a state detection device for detecting the state of the tension applying device (lifting cylinder 22).

[0058] When the band saw 14 is coiled around the upper and lower pair of saw wheels 12 and 13, the stroke of the lifting cylinder 22 remains almost constant around a certain value. However, when the band saw 14 begins to deform and detaches from or breaks off from the two saw wheels 12 and 13, the stroke of the lifting cylinder 22 will increase sharply.

[0059] Therefore, in this embodiment, the configuration is such that when the stroke of the lifting cylinder 22 measured by the stroke sensor 118 exceeds a preset critical value, it can be determined that the band saw 14 is deformed, detached, or broken, forcibly stopping the operation of the entire slicer 1 and stopping the band saw 14 from rotating. Alternatively, when it is determined that the band saw 14 is deformed, detached, or broken, at least the saw wheel motor 18 is forcibly stopped, or the power supply to the entire slicer 1 is cut off.

[0060] When configured in this way, even if the band saw 14 deforms, detaches, or breaks, it will be forcibly stopped from rotating. Therefore, it can prevent, for example, the frozen meat block M from being cut into an unexpected shape or thickness due to the band saw 14 bending into an unexpected posture. Depending on a set critical value, its rotation can also be forcibly stopped during the deformation phase of the band saw 14. Furthermore, as... Figure 3 As shown, a tension switch 119 is provided on the back of the machine base 15, which is used to operate the lifting cylinder 22 to apply tension to or release tension on the band saw 14.

[0061] The back side of the saw wheel housing 11 has an openable door 23. When the door 23 is opened, a pair of saw wheels 12, 13 or band saw 14 are exposed. Support plates 24, 24 extending towards each saw wheel 12, 13 are installed on the inner surface of the door 23 (see reference). Figure 3 and Figure 4 The upper and lower support plates 24, 24 are symmetrically arranged above and below the inner surface of the door 23. When the door 23 is closed, the upper support plate 24 is close to the upper part of the upper saw wheel 12, and the lower support plate 24 is close to the lower part of the lower saw wheel 13. If the band saw 14 detaches from or breaks off from the upper and lower saw wheels 12, 13, the band saw 14 will get caught on the support plates 24, 24. Therefore, for example, when the door 23 is opened, it is possible to prevent the band saw 14, which has detached from or broken off from the upper and lower saw wheels 12, 13, from flying towards the operator (providing a cut and scratch prevention function). Furthermore, if the saw wheels 12, 13 are arranged vertically as in the embodiment, the support plates 24, 24 need to be arranged on the inner surface of the door 23 with at least one of them close to the upper part of the upper saw wheel 12.

[0062] A locking cylinder 120 is disposed at the lower part of the saw wheel housing 11, which acts as a locking actuator to lock the door 23, preventing it from opening or closing. A locking plate 121 is provided on the rod of the locking cylinder 120. Even if the door 23 is to be opened when the locking cylinder 120 is in a shortened state, it will be unable to be opened because the door 23 is hooked onto the locking plate 121. When the locking cylinder 120 is in an extended state, the locking plate 121 will disengage from the door 23, thus allowing the door 23 to be opened. The locking cylinder 120 in this embodiment is a pneumatic cylinder. An opening / closing sensor 122 (see reference) is installed on the door 23 to detect the opening / closing state of the door. Figure 12 and Figure 17 ).

[0063] like Figures 1-3 and Figures 6-9As shown, the loading device 3 includes: a gripping mechanism 31, which is disposed on a platform 30 for placing frozen meat pieces M; a left and right guiding mechanism 32, which causes the gripping mechanism 31 to reciprocate in the left and right direction (feeding direction of frozen meat pieces M) towards or away from the cutting device 2 or the loading device 4; and a front and rear guiding mechanism 33, which causes the platform 30, the gripping mechanism 31 and the left and right guiding mechanism 32 to reciprocate in the cutting direction (front and rear direction) of the band saw 14.

[0064] The front and rear guide mechanism 33 includes a crank body 71 and a front and rear lever pair 72 disposed on the upper left surface of the machine base 15, a lower slider 73 embedded in the front and rear lever pair 72, and a front and rear guide motor 74 capable of rotating in both directions disposed on the left side inside the machine base 15 (see reference). Figure 6 The front and rear guide motors 74 are linked to the crank body 71 via a reduction gear (not shown), and the crank body 71 is linked to the lower slider 73. A platform 30, a gripping mechanism 31, and left and right guide mechanisms 32 are supported on the lower slider 73. Driven by the front and rear guide motors 74, the lower slider 73 reciprocates in the front-rear direction along the front and rear rod pairs 72 via the crank body 71, resulting in the reciprocating movement of the platform 30, gripping mechanism 31, and left and right guide mechanisms 32 supported by the lower slider 73 in the front-rear direction.

[0065] The left and right guide mechanism 32 has a pair of left and right rods 61 of left and right length, an upper slider 62 embedded in the pair of left and right rods 61, and a linear guide motor 64 arranged parallel to the pair of left and right rods 61 and capable of reciprocating. The left and right rods 61, the upper slider 62, and the left and right guide motor 64 are housed in a guide housing 65 connected to the rear of the platform 30. In this embodiment, a linear servo motor is used as the left and right guide motor 64.

[0066] An arm 63 extending forward from the upper slider 62 protrudes forward from a guide groove 66 of left and right length formed on the front surface of the guide housing 65, and a gripping mechanism 31 is mounted on this protruding portion. The upper slider 62 is linked to left and right guide motors 64. Driven by the left and right guide motors 64, the upper slider 62 reciprocates in the left and right direction along the left and right rod pair 61, resulting in the reciprocating movement of the gripping mechanism 31 mounted on the arm 63 of the upper slider 62 in the left and right direction.

[0067] In this embodiment, a cutting blade (not shown) is formed at the rear end of the band saw 14. Therefore, from a safety perspective, an L-shaped longitudinal safety cover 67 is installed on the right end of the guide housing 65, which surrounds the exposed blade side of the band saw 14. Viewed from the rear side of the slicer 1, the exposed portion of the band saw 14 overlaps with the safety cover 67. Therefore, the presence of the safety cover 67 reduces the risk of injury to operators from accidental contact with the exposed blade of the band saw 14, thus enhancing safety.

[0068] The safety cover 67 is mounted on the guide housing 65 and moves back and forth in the front and back direction via the front and rear guide mechanism 33 and the gripping mechanism 31. The L-shaped protruding end of the safety cover 67 serves the following function: when cutting frozen meat blocks M, in order to prevent the cut meat slices S from being trapped between the band saw 14 and the pad 17 and remaining, the cut meat slices S are pushed to the front side from between the band saw 14 and the pad 17, so that they fall onto the conveyor belt 81 of the transfer device 4.

[0069] like Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, the gripping mechanism 31 includes: a pair of front and rear end upper claws 43, which can rotate up and down to grip or release from the feeding terminal of the frozen meat block M located on the platform 30 from above; a middle upper claw 47, which can rotate up and down to grip or release from the feeding intermediate portion of the frozen meat block M from above; and an end lower claw 51, which can reciprocate left and right to grip or release from the feeding terminal of the frozen meat block M from below. The pair of front and rear end upper claws 43 constitute end gripping bodies for holding the food (frozen meat block M) on the feeding terminal side, while the middle upper claw 47 constitutes an intermediate gripping body for holding the food in the feeding intermediate portion.

[0070] A pair of end upper claws 43 and a middle upper claw 47 are mounted on the upper surface of the base plate 41, which is fixed to the arm 63 of the upper slider 62. The end lower claw 51 is mounted on the lower surface of the base plate 41. A push plate 42 is fixed to the right end of the base plate 41 to abut against the feeding terminal of the frozen meat block M. Furthermore, the middle upper claw 47 can be configured to grip or move away from the feeding terminal at a position further away than the end upper claws 43 in the frozen meat block M.

[0071] Each end claw 43 has a downwardly protruding inserting claw on its front end side. The base end of each end claw 43 is axially supported on the base plate 41. Each end claw 43 is equipped with an end claw cylinder 44 that causes the rod 45 to protrude diagonally downwards to the right. An opening is formed in the middle portion of each end claw 43. A corresponding end claw cylinder 44 is inserted into the opening of each end claw 43. The middle portion of the end claw 43 is axially supported on the cylinder body 46 of the end claw cylinder 44. The rod 45 of each end claw cylinder 44 is axially supported on the base plate 41.

[0072] The corresponding end claw 43 rotates up and down through the extension and retraction of each end claw cylinder 44. In this case, when each end claw cylinder 44 retracts, the corresponding end claw 43 rotates downward to grasp the feeding terminal of the frozen meat block M, and when each end claw cylinder 44 extends, the corresponding end claw 43 rotates upward to leave the feeding terminal of the frozen meat block M.

[0073] Similar to the end claws 43, a downwardly protruding inserting claw is formed on the front end side of the intermediate claw 47. The base end of the intermediate claw 47 is axially supported on the base plate 41. An intermediate claw cylinder 48 is mounted on the intermediate claw 47, which causes the rod 49 to protrude obliquely upward to the right. The middle part of the intermediate claw 47 is axially supported on the rod 49 of the intermediate claw cylinder 48. The cylinder body 50 of the intermediate claw cylinder 48 is axially supported on the base plate 41.

[0074] The middle upper claw 47 rotates up and down by the extension and retraction of the middle upper claw cylinder 48. In this case, if the middle upper claw cylinder 48 extends, the middle upper claw 47 rotates downward to grip the feeding middle part of the frozen meat block M, and if the middle upper claw cylinder 48 retracts, the middle upper claw 47 rotates upward to leave the feeding middle part of the frozen meat block M.

[0075] In this embodiment, an intermediate upper claw 47 and an intermediate upper claw cylinder 48 are arranged between the end upper claw 43 and the end upper claw cylinder 44. Furthermore, the cylinder body 46 of each end upper claw cylinder 44 is axially supported on the base plate 41, while the cylinder body 50 of the intermediate upper claw cylinder 48 is axially supported on the intermediate upper claw 47. Therefore, when gripping or releasing the frozen meat block M, the extension and retraction relationship of the two end upper claw cylinders 44 and the intermediate upper claw cylinder 48 is set to be opposite to each other.

[0076] With this configuration, the two sets of the end upper jaw 43 and the end upper jaw cylinder 44, and the sets of the middle upper jaw 47 and the middle upper jaw cylinder 48 are arranged on the base plate 41, increasing the design flexibility. Therefore, the two sets of the end upper jaw 43 and the end upper jaw cylinder 44, and the sets of the middle upper jaw 47 and the middle upper jaw cylinder 48 can be compactly arranged on the base plate 41. This further helps to make the overall gripping mechanism 31 more compact.

[0077] A cylinder body 54 for an end-claw cylinder 52 that causes the rod 53 to protrude to the right is mounted on the lower surface of the base plate 41. The base end of the end-claw 51 is fixed to the rod 53 of the end-claw cylinder 52. An upwardly protruding piercing claw is formed on the front end side of the end-claw 51. The end-claw 51 moves in and out in the left and right direction by the extension and retraction of the end-claw cylinder 52. In this case, if the end-claw cylinder 52 extends, the end-claw 51 protrudes to grip the feeding terminal of the frozen meat block M, and if the end-claw cylinder 52 retracts, the end-claw 51 retracts to leave the feeding terminal of the frozen meat block M.

[0078] Furthermore, in the embodiments, each of the end upper claw cylinder 44, the middle upper claw cylinder 48, and the end lower claw cylinder 52 is a pneumatic cylinder. Additionally, the pair of end upper claws 43 and the middle upper claw 47 are typically in an upward-rotating (out-of-rotation) state, while the end lower claw 51 is typically in a rightward-protruding state. Needless to say, the configuration of the two sets of end upper claws 43 and end upper claw cylinder 44, the set of middle upper claws 47 and middle upper claw cylinder 48, and the configuration of end lower claws 51 and end lower claw cylinder 52 is not limited to the above embodiments.

[0079] like Figures 1-3 and Figures 6-9 As shown, the conveyor 4 has a conveyor belt 81 located on the right side near the front of the machine base 15 (near the front of the cutting device 2) and a conveyor motor 82 capable of rotating in both directions to drive the conveyor belt 81. In this embodiment, the conveyor belt 81 is a belt-type conveyor. The motor shaft of the conveyor motor 82 is linked to the support shaft of the drive roller 83 of the deflecting infeed device 3 within the conveyor belt 81 via a reduction gear (not shown). The conveyor motor 82 is housed within the machine base 15 between the cutting device 2 and the infeed device 3. The drive roller 83 rotates under the drive of the conveyor motor 82, causing the endless loop belt 84 of the conveyor belt 81 to rotate. The conveyor motor 82 constitutes a conveyor drive actuator for driving the conveyor belt 81.

[0080] In the above structure, the frozen meat block M, held by the gripping mechanism 31, is moved a predetermined amount to the left and right by the left and right guide mechanism 32, so that the part of the frozen meat block M to be cut is exposed from the platform 30 to the right. The front and rear guide mechanism 33 moves the frozen meat block M from the inside to the front. As a result, the exposed part of the band saw 14, which rotates around the frozen meat block M, cuts off the part of the frozen meat block M (the part exposed from the platform 30) at a set thickness (the thickness corresponding to the set weight). The cut meat slices S fall onto the conveyor belt 81. By repeating this process, the frozen meat block M is cut into thin slices and divided into multiple meat slices S, which are then concentrated on the conveyor belt 81 and conveyed to the subsequent process.

[0081] An operating panel 100 is located on the front side (left front side of the machine base 15) of the loading device 3 in the machine base 15. The operating panel 100 includes a start switch 101 for initiating the cutting operation of the frozen meat block M, a stop switch 102 for stopping the cutting operation of the frozen meat block M, a pair of left and right claw switches 103 and 104 for rotating the front and rear end claws 43 and the middle claw 47 vertically, and a touch panel for operator use, among other operating parts 105. Below the operating panel 100 on the front surface of the machine base 15, there is a power switch 106 for turning the power supply of the slicer 1 on or off, and an emergency stop switch 107 for forcibly stopping the operation of the slicer 1. On the back of the machine base 15, there is a tension switch 119, which is used to operate the lifting cylinder 22 to apply or release tension to the band saw 14.

[0082] In this embodiment, a start switch 101 and a stop switch 102 are arranged between a pair of left and right claw switches 103 and 104. The left and right claw switches 103 and 104 are arranged separately so that the operator can operate them with both hands. The left and right claw switches 103 and 104 constitute a pair of switching devices for performing gripping operations on the end gripper (end upper claw 43) and the middle gripper (middle upper claw 47).

[0083] With the end claws 43 or the middle claw 47 of the front and rear pairs rotated upwards (disengaged from rotation), if the operator presses and operates the two claw switches 103 and 104 with both hands, the end claws 43 and the middle claw 47 of the front and rear pairs will rotate downwards (grip and rotate). Moreover, with the end claws 43 or the middle claw 47 of the front and rear pairs rotated downwards, when the operator presses and operates either the left or right claw switch 104 (or 103), the end claws 43 and the middle claw 47 of the front and rear pairs will rotate upwards.

[0084] If configured in this way, when the pair of end upper jaws 43 and the middle upper jaw 47 are rotated downwards, the operator does not need to worry about their hands or wrists accidentally getting close to the pair of end upper jaws 43 or the middle upper jaw 47, which provides excellent safety.

[0085] Next, refer to Figure 12 The air pressure circuit structure and control structure of the slicer 1 are described below. The air pressure circuit 110 of the slicer 1 includes a pair of end upper claw cylinders 44, a middle upper claw cylinder 48, an end lower claw cylinder 52, a lifting cylinder 22, and a locking cylinder 120 on the gripping mechanism 31, and a compressor 111 for supplying high-pressure air to these cylinders 44, 48, 52, 22, and 120. Each cylinder 44, 48, 52, 22, and 120 is connected to the compressor 111 via a switching solenoid valve 112.

[0086] Each switching solenoid valve 112 is electrically connected to a controller 113, which is a control device located within the machine base 15. Each switching solenoid valve 112 is configured to be driven according to the instructions of the controller 113 to switch between an extended position and a retracted position. In the extended position, the corresponding cylinders 44, 48, 52, 22, and 120 extend, while in the retracted position, the cylinders 44, 48, 52, 22, and 120 retract.

[0087] The controller 113 is electrically connected not only to switching solenoid valves 112 for each of the cylinders 44, 48, 52, 22, and 120, but also to the saw wheel motor 18, the front and rear guide motors 74, the left and right guide motors 64, the conveyor belt motor 82, the start switch 101, the stop switch 102, a pair of left and right claw switches 103 and 104, an operating unit 105 including a touch panel, a power switch 106, an emergency stop switch 107, a stroke sensor 118, a tension switch 119, an opening / closing sensor 122 for detecting the opening / closing state of the door, an ammeter 114 for measuring the current driving the saw wheel motor 18, and a notification component 115 such as a buzzer or light. The ammeter 114 is used to detect the replacement period of the band saw 14, the details of which will be described below. The notification component 115 is used to notify the operator when the replacement period of the band saw 14 arrives. The ammeter 114 constitutes a detection device for detecting the load value of the cutting drive actuator (saw wheel motor 18).

[0088] Next, refer to Figures 13 to 16 An example of the sequence for cutting frozen meat chunks M using a slicer 1 will be described. The surface shape or weight of the frozen meat chunk M is pre-measured by a three-dimensional shape measuring device, etc. The thickness Ms (equivalent to meat slice S, also known as the set thickness) of the frozen meat chunk M in the feeding direction is input via the operation unit 105. This measurement data and input data are automatically or manually input to the controller 113. Furthermore, the measuring device, such as the three-dimensional shape measuring device, can be integrally mounted on the slicer 1 or installed separately.

[0089] First, the operator places the frozen meat block M on the platform 30 so that the feeding end of the frozen meat block M abuts against the push plate 42 and simultaneously inserts into the lower claw 51 (see reference). Figure 13 (a)). Next, the operator presses the two claw switches 103 and 104 with both hands, which causes the front and rear pair of front and rear upper claws 43 to rotate downwards by shortening the corresponding end upper claw cylinders 44, and the middle upper claw 47 to rotate downwards by extending the middle upper claw cylinder 48. As a result, the frozen meat piece M is grasped by the front and rear pair of end upper claws 43, the middle upper claw 47 and the end lower claw 51 (see reference). Figure 13 (b) in the middle.

[0090] With this configuration, not only can the front and rear pair of upper and lower claws 43 grip the feeding end of the frozen meat block M, but the middle upper claw 47 can also press down on the feeding middle section of the frozen meat block M from above. Therefore, regardless of the shape of the frozen meat block M, the gripping mechanism 31 can firmly grip it, preventing it from floating or shifting. Even if the operator does not press down on the frozen meat block M by hand (no need to re-grip it), the risk of reduced cutting efficiency can be avoided. In addition, if the middle upper claw 47 is used to pre-press down on the feeding middle section of the frozen meat block M, it can effectively prevent the frozen meat block M from shifting during cutting. Especially when the feeding length of the frozen meat block M is long, the presence of the middle upper claw 47 can effectively fulfill its function.

[0091] In this implementation, based on pre-inputted measurement data of the surface shape and weight of the frozen meat block M, the number of meat slices S of a set weight and the total thickness of the meat slices S in the feeding direction can be calculated. The remaining thickness Mr in the feeding direction at the feeding start end of the frozen meat block M can also be calculated. Therefore, as... Figure 13 As shown in (c), the operator presses the start switch 101 to drive the saw wheel motor 18, causing the band saw 14 to start rotating. The left and right guide motors 64 move the gripping mechanism 31 and even the frozen meat piece M to the right by a predetermined amount, so that the part of the frozen meat piece M to be cut is exposed to the right from the platform 30 (more specifically, the remaining thickness Mr in the feeding direction is exposed to the right from the band saw 14).

[0092] Then, under the action of the front and rear guide motors 74, the platform 30, the gripping mechanism 31, and the left and right guide mechanisms 32, together with Figure 13 In state (c), the frozen meat block M moves from the inside to the near front, and through the exposed portion of the rotating band saw 14, cuts off the remaining thickness Mr in the feeding direction at the feeding start end of the frozen meat block M (refer to...). Figure 13 (d) In this case, the L-shaped protrusion of the safety cover 67 pushes the remaining thickness Mr in the feeding direction towards the front from between the band saw 14 and the pad 17, so that it falls accurately onto the delivery conveyor 81. When the cut remaining thickness Mr in the feeding direction falls onto the delivery conveyor 81, the drive roller 83 rotates forward through the feeder motor 82, and the endless loop belt 84 of the delivery conveyor 81 conveys the remaining thickness Mr in the feeding direction away from the receiving device 3.

[0093] Next, as Figure 14As shown in (e), the left and right guide motors 64 move the gripping mechanism 31 and even the frozen meat piece M to the left until the front end face F of the frozen meat piece M is aligned with the right end reference position of the platform 30. Then, the front and rear guide motors 74 move the platform 30, gripping mechanism 31, and left and right guide mechanisms 32, along with the frozen meat piece M, from the near front side to the inward side. Then, as... Figure 14 As shown in (f), the left and right guide motors 64 are used to move the gripping mechanism 31 and even the frozen meat block M to the right by a predetermined amount, so that the thickness Ms (equivalent to meat slice S) of the frozen meat block M in the feeding direction is exposed to the right from the band saw 14.

[0094] Next, under the action of the front and rear guide motors 74, the platform 30, the gripping mechanism 31, and the left and right guide mechanisms 32, together with... Figure 14 In state (f), the frozen meat block M moves from the inside to the front, passing through the exposed portion of the rotating band saw 14, cutting off the thickness Ms of the frozen meat block M in the feeding direction, making it a meat slice S of a set thickness (the thickness corresponding to the set weight) and falling onto the delivery conveyor belt 81 (see reference). Figure 14 (g)). Here, the L-shaped protrusion of the safety cover 67 pushes the thickness Ms of the frozen meat block M in the feeding direction from between the band saw 14 and the pad 17 to the front side, so that it falls accurately onto the conveyor belt 81.

[0095] If the cut meat slices, with a thickness Ms in the feeding direction (i.e., the slices S cut into thin pieces), fall onto the conveyor belt 81, the drive roller 83 is reversed by the conveyor motor 82, and the endless loop belt 84 of the conveyor belt 81 pours the meat slices S onto the endless loop belt 84 (so that they are laid flat, see reference). Figure 14 (h)). By repeating these steps, the frozen meat block M is cut into thin slices and divided into multiple slices S. Even without manual arrangement by the operator, multiple slices S can be supported on the endless ring belt 84, so that subsequent slices S overlap with a portion of the previous slices S, forming a fish-scale pattern (see below). Figure 15 (k)(l)).

[0096] When configured in this way, multiple slices of meat S can be compactly transported in units of frozen meat blocks M via the conveyor belt 81. This allows the conveyor belt 81 to be more compact than the size of the frozen meat blocks M.

[0097] Subsequently, when the cutting of the frozen meat piece M reaches a certain stage, the gripping mechanism 31 and even the frozen meat piece M are moved to the right by a predetermined amount via the left and right guide motors 64, so that the thickness Ms portion of the frozen meat piece M in the feeding direction is exposed to the right from the band saw 14. When the middle upper claw 47 reaches a predetermined position close to the band saw 14 (refer to...), Figure 15In (i), only the middle upper jaw 47 rotates upward (leaves the rotation) through the shortening action of the middle upper jaw cylinder 48 (see reference). Figure 15 (j) in the middle.

[0098] If configured in this way, the middle upper claw 47, which serves to press down the frozen meat block M from above, rotates upward and moves away from the frozen meat block M. Therefore, even if the frozen meat block M is cut later, the presence of the middle upper claw 47 will not be an obstacle, and the cutting operation of the frozen meat block M can continue smoothly.

[0099] Then, under the action of the front and rear guide motors 74, the platform 30, the gripping mechanism 31, and the left and right guide mechanisms 32, together with Figure 15 The frozen meat block M in state (j) moves from the inside to the near front. Passing through the exposed portion of the rotating band saw 14, the feed direction thickness Ms of the frozen meat block M is cut off, making it a meat slice S of a set thickness. The L-shaped protrusion of the safety cover 67 pushes it from between the band saw 14 and the pad 17 to the near front, causing it to fall onto the unloading conveyor belt 81 (see reference). Figure 15 (k)). After the meat slice S falls onto the conveyor belt 81, the drive roller 83 is reversed by the conveyor motor 82, and the endless loop belt 84 of the conveyor belt 81 pours the meat slice S onto the endless loop belt 84 (so that it is laid flat).

[0100] Next, as Figure 15 As shown in (l), the left and right guide motors 64 are used to move the gripping mechanism 31 together with the frozen meat block M to the left until the front end face F of the frozen meat block M is aligned with the right end reference position of the platform 30. The front and rear guide motors 74 are used to move the platform 30, the gripping mechanism 31 and the left and right guide mechanisms 32 together with the frozen meat block M from the front side to the inside side.

[0101] Next, the frozen meat block M is further cut. When the final cutting stage is reached, the left and right guide motors 64 are used to move the gripping mechanism 31 and even the frozen meat block M to the right by a predetermined amount, so that the front end face F of the frozen meat block M abuts against the pad 17 of the saw wheel housing 11. The push plate 42 of the gripping mechanism 31 and the pad 17 of the saw wheel housing 11 clamp the frozen meat block M (see reference). Figure 16 (m) in the middle.

[0102] Next, as Figure 16As shown in (n), the extension action of the upper claw cylinders 44 at each end causes the pair of upper claws 43 at the front and rear to rotate upward (leave rotation). The left and right guide motors 64 move the gripping mechanism 31 to the left by a small amount. Then, the shortening action of the lower claw cylinder 52 causes the lower claw 51 to retract and leave the feeding terminal of the frozen meat block M. The left and right guide motors 64 again move the gripping mechanism 31 and the frozen meat block M to the right by a predetermined amount, so that the front end face F of the frozen meat block M abuts against the pad 17. The push plate 42 of the gripping mechanism 31 and the pad 17 of the saw wheel housing 11 clamp the frozen meat block M. Then, under the action of the front and rear guide motors 74, the platform 30, the gripping mechanism 31 and the left and right guide mechanisms 32 together... Figure 16 The frozen meat block M in state (n) moves from the inside to the front, and is cut into two parts by the exposed part of the rotating band saw 14, making it into meat slices S which fall onto the conveyor belt 81 and are then conveyed to the subsequent process (see reference). Figure 16 (o) in the middle.

[0103] If configured in this way, during the final cutting stage, the pair of upper and lower claws 43 and 51 are positioned away from the frozen meat block M, thus preventing them from hindering the cutting of the frozen meat block M. In other words, compared to the case where the meat block is held and cut using the pair of upper and lower claws 43 and 51, the remaining portion Re can be significantly reduced, increasing the utilization rate of the frozen meat block M. In this embodiment, compared to the case using existing devices (e.g., approximately 40 mm), the thickness of the remaining portion Re is only about half of that thickness.

[0104] After all the frozen meat pieces M on the platform 30 have been cut, the platform 30, gripping mechanism 31, and left and right guide mechanisms 32 move from the front to the inside due to the action of the front and rear guide motors 74. The gripping mechanism 31 moves back to its original position due to the action of the left and right guide motors 64. Figure 13 The initial position of (a) in the diagram. If the gripping mechanism 31 moves back to... Figure 13 After pressing the stop switch 102 after the initial position of (a) in the diagram, the saw wheel motor 18 stops driving and the band saw 14 stops rotating.

[0105] While continuing the cutting operation of frozen meat block M, return Figure 13 In stage (a), the frozen meat block M is placed on the platform 30. In this embodiment, if the gripping mechanism 31 returns to... Figure 13After the initial position of (a) and before a predetermined time has elapsed, pressing either claw switch 103 or 104, or pressing start switch 101, causes controller 113 to continue driving saw wheel motor 18, causing band saw 14 to rotate. When gripping mechanism 31 moves back to its original position... Figure 13 If, after the initial position in (a) and before a predetermined time has elapsed, the two claw switches 103 and 104, the start switch 101, or the stop switch 102 are not pressed and the switch remains in a suspended state, the controller 113 determines that the operation is complete and stops the drive of the saw wheel motor 18, thereby stopping the rotation of the band saw 14. If configured in this way, even if the operator forgets to press the stop switch 102, the drive of the saw wheel motor 18 can be automatically stopped, thereby stopping the rotation of the band saw 14, preventing the band saw 14 from continuing to rotate due to negligence. The gripping mechanism 31 moves back to... Figure 13 The predetermined time after the initial position in (a) can be set to, for example, tens of seconds to several minutes.

[0106] However, since opening the door 23 is prohibited during the cutting operation of the frozen meat block M (during the rotation of the band saw 14), the controller 113 performs locking control of the door 23 via the locking cylinder 120. In this embodiment, it can be configured such that if the opening / closing sensor 122 detects that the door 23 is in the closed state and the locking cylinder 120 is in the shortened state, pressing the start switch 101 on the operation panel 100 will drive the saw wheel motor 18 to allow the band saw 14 to rotate. If the opening / closing sensor 122 detects that the door 23 is in the open state or the locking cylinder 120 is in the extended state, since the door 23 may be opened, it is configured such that even if the start switch 101 is pressed, the drive of the saw wheel motor 18 and the rotation of the band saw 14 are prohibited.

[0107] The mechanism 31 moved back to its original position. Figure 13If, after the initial position in (a) and before a predetermined time has elapsed, the two claw switches 103 and 104, the start switch 101, or the stop switch 102 are not pressed, or if the stop switch 102 is pressed, then, as previously described, the controller 113 determines that the operation is complete, stops the drive of the saw wheel motor 18, and thus stops the rotation of the band saw 14. After the drive of the saw wheel motor 18 stops, the upper and lower saw wheels 12 and 13 rotate briefly due to inertia. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the saw wheel motor 18 stops driving and a predetermined time has elapsed, the controller 113 causes the locking cylinder 120, which is in a shortened state, to extend, causing the locking plate 121 to disengage from the door 23, allowing the door 23 to open and close. If configured in this way, the door 23 cannot be opened (the rotating band saw 14 cannot be exposed) until the upper and lower saw wheels 12 and 13 have stopped rotating or are in a state of almost stopping rotation, thus being effective from the viewpoint of preventing cuts and scratches.

[0108] Next, refer to Figure 12 and Figure 17 The structure and control method for detecting the replacement period of the band saw 14 are explained. The saw wheel motor 18 that rotates the band saw 14 is configured to be driven via an inverter circuit (not shown). An ammeter 114 for measuring the current driving it is installed on the saw wheel motor 18. The ammeter 114 is electrically connected to the controller 113. The ammeter 114 can, for example, measure the current flowing through the saw wheel motor 18 in real time. The current measurement performed by the ammeter 114 can be performed, for example, using a shunt resistor.

[0109] Normally, if the frozen meat piece M is brought close to and in contact with the exposed portion of the rotating band saw 14, the cutting resistance increases, and the current value of the saw wheel motor 18 increases. During the cutting of the frozen meat piece M, if the cutting is completed without changing the moving speed (moving speed from the inside to the front) of the front and rear guide mechanisms 33 in the cutting direction, the current value of the saw wheel motor 18 will decrease.

[0110] Therefore, in this embodiment, if the current value of the saw wheel motor 18 measured by the ammeter 114 exceeds a preset threshold, it can be understood that the sharpness of the band saw 14 decreases and the cutting resistance increases. Therefore, the indication that the band saw 14 is due for replacement can be displayed on the operation unit 105, such as a touch panel, or notified via the notification unit 115. Furthermore, the threshold value itself can be included on either the lower or higher side. Additionally, the value used to detect the replacement period of the band saw 14 (also called the load value) can be not only the current value of the saw wheel motor 18, but also the electrical power value, torque value, or rotational speed. These values ​​can also be combined.

[0111] like Figure 17 As shown, the replacement period of the band saw 14 can also be determined by using a timer 116 that measures the cumulative cutting time of the saw wheel motor 18 (band saw 14) or a counter 117 that measures the number of cuts and the weight of the frozen meat block M. For example, if the cumulative cutting time of the saw wheel motor 18 (band saw 14) detected by the timer 116 exceeds a preset threshold, it is determined that the sharpness of the band saw 14 has decreased. The notice that the replacement period of the band saw 14 has arrived can be displayed on the operation unit 105, such as a touch panel, or by notifying the user through the notification unit 115.

[0112] Furthermore, if the number of cuts or the processed weight of the frozen meat block M measured by counter 117 exceeds a preset threshold, it is determined that the sharpness of the band saw 14 has decreased. The indication that the band saw 14 is due for replacement can be displayed on the operation unit 105, such as a touch panel, or notified via notification unit 115. After the band saw 14 is replaced, timer 116 and counter 117 are reset. Timer 116 and counter 117 constitute a measuring device for measuring the cumulative drive time of the cutting drive actuator (saw wheel motor 18), the number of cuts by the blade (band saw 14), or the processed weight of the food (frozen meat block M).

[0113] If configured in this way, when the band saw 14 wears down and eventually breaks, the operator can be notified that the band saw 14 is due for replacement, prompting them to replace it before it breaks. This avoids the problems of uneven meat slices S and increased meat scraps (minced meat) caused by continuing to use the band saw 14 when its sharpness has decreased.

[0114] Furthermore, to determine the replacement period of the band saw 14, it can be determined not only by the aforementioned electrical control but also by detecting physical changes in the band saw 14 (such as flexure). In this case, for example, a flexure detection sensor (not shown) for detecting flexure in the feeding direction of the exposed portion of the band saw 14 is positioned near the exposed portion of the band saw 14. The flexure detection sensor can be a pressure sensor or an optical sensor or other types. The flexure detection sensor is electrically connected to the controller 113. If the detection result of the flexure detection sensor is greater than a predetermined value, it can be understood that the cutting resistance has increased, the sharpness of the band saw 14 has decreased, and the thickness of the meat slices S is uneven. Therefore, the notice that the replacement period of the band saw 14 has arrived can be displayed on the operation unit 105, such as a touch panel, or a notification can be sent via the notification unit 115.

[0115] Next, refer to Figure 18 and Figure 19 Another example of a structure in which slices of meat S, to be cut into thin pieces, are poured onto an endless loop belt 84 of a conveyor belt 81 is illustrated. Figure 18 and Figure 19 In another example shown, a mounting arm 123 protruding towards the front is provided on the right end of the platform 30 near the front. A wide, plane-oriented, inclined push plate 124 is mounted on the protruding end of the mounting arm 123, facing the endless loop belt 84. The push plate 124 is located directly in front of the exposed portion of the band saw 14.

[0116] As described above, the meat slices S, which are cut into thin pieces with a thickness Ms in the feeding direction, are pushed from between the band saw 14 and the pad 17 to the near-front side through the L-shaped protrusion of the safety cover 67. Furthermore, as the frozen meat block M moves from the near-front side back to the inside side along with the front and rear guide motors 74, the platform 30, the gripping mechanism 31, and the left and right guide mechanisms 32, the front end of the meat slice S comes into contact with the wide plane of the inclined push plate 124. Thus, since the wide plane of the push plate 124 faces the endless ring belt 84 (opposite to the endless ring belt 84), the push plate 124 lays the meat slice S flat on the endless ring belt 84. By repeating this process, the frozen meat block M is cut into thin slices and divided into multiple meat slices S. Even without manual arrangement by the operator, multiple meat slices S can be carried on the endless ring belt 84, so that subsequent meat slices S overlap with a portion of the previous meat slices S, forming a fish-scale pattern. In addition, Figure 18 and Figure 19 In another example shown, the conveyor belt 81 can be driven intermittently or continuously in the forward rotation direction.

[0117] When configured in this way, similar to the previous implementation, multiple meat slices S can be compactly transported in units of frozen meat blocks M by the conveyor belt 81. This allows the conveyor belt 81 to be more compact than the size of the frozen meat blocks M. Furthermore, a stop bar 125 is provided downstream of the conveyor belt 81 to block groups of meat slices on the endless loop belt 84.

[0118] Next, refer to Figure 20 Another example of the sequence for cutting frozen meat block M using slicer 1 will be described. In this other example, instead of pre-measuring the surface shape and weight of the frozen meat block M, a temporary setting value Ms0 for the thickness of the frozen meat block M in the feeding direction is input via the operation unit 105. In this case, the temporary setting value Ms0 is set to 10 mm. The distance D between the band saw 14 and the pad 17 is actually measured in this other example step.

[0119] The following is an explanation using specific numerical examples. The operator places the frozen meat block M on the platform 30 and presses the two claw switches 103 and 104 with both hands. The frozen meat block M is gripped by the pair of end upper claws 43, middle upper claw 47, and end lower claw 51. Next, the operator presses the start switch 101, causing the band saw 14 to begin rotating. The left and right guide motors 64 move the gripping mechanism 31 and the frozen meat block M to the right, causing the feeding start end of the frozen meat block M to abut against the pad 17 (see reference). Figure 20 (a) in the middle.

[0120] In this case, it is known in advance that the closest end position Pmax of the end claw 43 to the band saw 14 is 400mm from the origin. At this stage, based on the drive amount of the left and right guide motors 64, the first current position Pc1 of the end claw 43 when the feeding start end of the frozen meat block M abuts against the pad 17 is determined to be 98mm from the origin.

[0121] Therefore, the difference between the final end position Pmax (=400mm) and the first current position Pc1 (=98mm) is calculated (=302mm). The temporary set value of the thickness in the feeding direction, Ms0 (=10mm), is divided by this difference (=302mm), thus determining the first temporary number of slices for the frozen meat block M to be 30.2 slices. Then, the decimal place is rounded up to 1 slice, setting the first temporary number of slices for the frozen meat block M to 31 slices. Therefore, the temporary length in the feeding direction of the cut frozen meat block M is calculated as: the temporary set value of the thickness in the feeding direction, Ms0 (=10mm) × the first temporary number of slices, 31 slices = 310mm.

[0122] Since the temporary length of 310mm for the feeding direction of the frozen meat block M needs to be retained (ensuring) on ​​the left side (origin side) starting from the final end position Pmax, the gripping mechanism 31 and the frozen meat block M are moved to the left by the left and right guide motors 64, so that the value of 310mm minus the final end position Pmax (=400mm) (=90mm) is used as the second current position Pc2 of the end claw 43 (refer to...). Figure 20 (b)). Then, under the action of the front and rear guide motors 74, the platform 30, gripping mechanism 31, and left and right guide mechanisms 32, together with the frozen meat block M, move from the inside to the front, and cut the remaining part of the feeding start end of the frozen meat block M through the exposed part of the rotating band saw 14 (see reference). Figure 20 (b) in the middle.

[0123] Then, the left and right guide motors 64 are used again to move the gripping mechanism 31 and the frozen meat block M to the right, so that the front end face F of the frozen meat block M abuts against the pad 17 (see reference). Figure 20 (c)). In this stage, based on the drive amount of the left and right guide motors 64, the third current position Pc3 of the end claw 43 when the front end face F of the frozen meat block M abuts against the pad 17 is determined to be 101 mm from the origin. As a result, by subtracting from the third current position Pc3 when it abuts against the pad 17 again... Figure 20 When cutting the remaining part as shown in (b), the second current position Pc2 of the end claw 43 is calculated, and the distance D between the band saw 14 and the pad 17 is 101mm-90mm=11mm.

[0124] Next, the thickness Ms in the feeding direction of the frozen meat block M is changed from the temporary setting Ms0 (=10mm) to the distance D (11mm) between the band saw 14 and the pad 17. Then, the difference between the final end position Pmax (=400mm) and the third current position Pc3 (=101mm) is calculated (=299mm). The feeding direction thickness Ms (=D=11mm) is divided by the difference between the final end position Pmax and the third current position Pc3 (=299mm), thus determining the second temporary number of slices for the frozen meat block M to be 27.1 slices. Then, the decimal point is rounded up to 1 slice, setting the second temporary number of slices for the frozen meat block M to 28 slices. Therefore, the necessary length in the feeding direction of the frozen meat block M is: feeding direction thickness Ms (=D=11mm) × second temporary number of slices 28 = 308mm.

[0125] Since the necessary length of 308mm for the feeding direction of the frozen meat block M needs to be retained (ensuring) on ​​the left side (origin side) starting from the final end position Pmax, the gripping mechanism 31 and the frozen meat block M are moved to the left by the left and right guide motors 64, so that the value obtained by subtracting 308mm from the final end position Pmax (=400mm) (=92mm) is used as the fourth current position Pc4 of the end claw 43 (refer to...). Figure 20 (d)). Then, under the action of the front and rear guide motors 74, the platform 30, the gripping mechanism 31, and the left and right guide mechanisms 32, along with the frozen meat block M, move from the inside to the near front. Through the exposed part of the rotating band saw 14, the remaining part of the frozen meat block M is cut again (see reference). Figure 20 (d) in the middle.

[0126] Then, as Figure 20As shown in (e), according to the thickness Ms (=D=11mm) in each feeding direction, 308mm portions (28 slices) of meat slice S, which are the necessary length for the feeding direction of the frozen meat block M, are cut from the frozen meat block M. As a result, with the frozen meat block M gripped by the end claw 43 to the final end position Pmax (which is also the final current position Pc5), the frozen meat block M can be efficiently cut to a position extremely close to the end claw 43 (see Figure 48). Figure 20 (f) in the middle.

[0127] Then, when the final cutting stage is reached, as in the previous example, i.e. Figure 16 As explained in (m)(n)(o), the left and right guide motors 64 move the gripping mechanism 31 and the frozen meat piece M to the right by a predetermined amount, so that the front end face F of the frozen meat piece M abuts against the pad 17. The push plate 42 of the gripping mechanism 31 and the pad 17 of the saw wheel housing 11 clamp the frozen meat piece M, causing the upper claw 43 at the end to rotate upward (away from rotation). Under the action of the front and rear guide motors 74, the gripping mechanism 31 and the left and right guide mechanisms 32, together with the frozen meat piece M, move from the inside to the near front side. Through the exposed part of the rotating band saw 14, the frozen meat piece M is divided into two parts. Furthermore, if the distance D between the band saw 14 and the pad 17 is known in advance, it is only necessary to perform... Figure 20 The order after (c) is fine.

[0128] This invention is not limited to the embodiments described above and can be embodied in various ways. For example, the actuators that move the various parts of the slicer 1 can also be in the form of pneumatic cylinders or electric motors. In addition, the structure of each part is not limited to the embodiments shown in the figures, and various modifications can be made without departing from the purpose of this invention.

[0129] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0130] F: Front end

[0131] M: Frozen meat chunks

[0132] Mr: Remaining thickness in the feeding direction

[0133] Ms: Thickness in the feeding direction

[0134] Re: Cutting the remaining part

[0135] S: Sliced ​​meat

[0136] 1: Food slicer

[0137] 2: Cutting device

[0138] 3: Move in the device

[0139] 4: Transfer device

[0140] 14: Band saw

[0141] 17: Pad

[0142] 30: Platform

[0143] 31: Urgently manage the organization

[0144] 32: Left and right guiding mechanism

[0145] 33: Front and rear guiding mechanisms

[0146] 42: Push plate

[0147] 43: End claw

[0148] 47: Middle upper claw

[0149] 51: End claw.

Claims

1. A food slicer, A food slicer comprising a cutting device for cutting food into thin slices and a feeding device for feeding the food into the cutting device. in, The gripping mechanism constituting the loading device has an end gripping body that grips the feeding terminal side of the food and a push plate that abuts against the feeding terminal side of the food. On the other hand, there is a pad that is opposite to the push plate and can abut against the feeding start end side of the food. It also has a control device that, in the final cutting stage of the food, clamps the food with the pad and the push plate while the end gripper is moved and separated from the food, and cuts the food using the cutting device.

2. The food slicing machine according to claim 1, wherein, The gripping mechanism has a mid-course gripping body for gripping the food in the feeding middle section.

3. The food slicing machine according to claim 2, wherein, When the control device approaches the cutting device midway through the feeding of the food, it causes the midway gripper to move and leave the food.

4. The food slicing machine according to claim 2, wherein, It has a pair of switching devices for enabling the end gripper and the intermediate gripper to perform gripping operations; The pair of switching devices are configured separately so that the operator can operate them with both hands.

5. The food slicing machine according to claim 1, wherein, It includes a cutting drive actuator for driving the blade of the cutting device and a detection device for detecting the load value of the cutting drive actuator; When the detection result of the detection device exceeds a preset threshold, the control device determines that it is time to replace the blade.

6. The food slicing machine according to claim 1, wherein, It includes: a cutting drive actuator for driving the blade of the cutting device; and a measuring device for measuring the cumulative driving time of the cutting drive actuator, the number of cuts made by the blade, or the processed weight of the food. When the measurement result of the measuring device exceeds a preset threshold, the control device determines that it is time to replace the blade.

7. The food slicing machine according to claim 1, wherein, The cutting device has a blade that is a band saw coiled around a pair of saw wheels; It has a cutting drive actuator mounted on the driven side of the pair of saw wheels, a tension applying device mounted on the driven side of the pair of saw wheels, and a state detection device for detecting the state of the tension applying device. When the detection result of the state detection device exceeds a preset threshold, the control device shall at least force the cutting drive actuator to stop.

8. The food slicing machine according to claim 1, It has an outgoing conveyor belt as an outgoing device, which is used to move the cut meat slices to subsequent processes; When the meat slices fall onto the conveyor belt, the control device reverses the conveyor belt so that subsequent meat slices fall onto the conveyor belt, thereby causing the subsequent meat slices to partially overlap with the previous meat slices.

9. The food slicing machine according to claim 1, wherein, The cutting device has a blade that is a band saw coiled around a pair of saw wheels; the cutting device has a saw wheel housing for housing the pair of saw wheels, and a receiving plate extending toward the pair of saw wheels is installed inside the saw wheel housing.

10. The food slicing machine according to claim 1, wherein, The cutting device has a blade that is a band saw coiled around a pair of saw wheels; the cutting device includes a saw wheel housing with a door for housing the pair of saw wheels, a cutting drive actuator mounted on the driven side of the pair of saw wheels, and a locking actuator for locking the door so that it cannot be opened or closed. The control device releases the lock on the door by driving the locking actuator after the cutting drive actuator stops driving and a predetermined time has elapsed.

11. The food slicing machine according to claim 1, wherein, The cutting device has a blade that is a band saw wound around a pair of saw wheels, and has a cutting drive actuator mounted on the driven side of the pair of saw wheels. When the gripping mechanism moves back to its initial position and is left idle without any operation before the end of the predetermined time, the control device determines that the operation is completed and stops the drive of the cutting drive actuator.

12. The food slicing machine according to claim 1, It has an outgoing conveyor belt as an outgoing device, which is used to move the cut meat slices to subsequent processes; The push plate that allows the meat slices to fall onto the conveyor belt is tilted, with its wide plane facing the direction of the conveyor belt.

13. The food slicing machine according to claim 1, wherein, The cutting device has a blade that is a band saw coiled around a pair of saw wheels; The control device calculates the second current position of the end gripper when cutting the remaining part of the food based on the position of the end gripper closest to the end of the band saw, the first current position of the end gripper when the food begins to abut the pad, and a temporary setting value of the thickness in the food feeding direction. Furthermore, based on the second current position and the third current position of the end gripper when the food comes into contact with the pad again, the distance between the band saw and the pad is calculated.

14. The food slicer according to claim 13, wherein, The control device calculates the fourth current position of the end gripper when cutting the remaining part of the food based on the final end position, the third current position, and the distance between the band saw and the pad. The food is cut to a set thickness corresponding to the distance between the band saw and the pad, causing the end gripper to move to the final end position.

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