Apparatus and method for stunning poultry animals for slaughtering

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (10) configured and adapted for stunning poultry animals for slaughtering supplied in a plurality of transport containers (11) in a stunning chamber (12), comprising: a stunning chamber (12); a transport device (13) for introducing the plurality of transport containers (11) into the stunning chamber (12), transporting the plurality of transport containers (11) through the stunning chamber (12) and discharging the plurality of transport containers (11) from the stunning chamber (12), the stunning chamber (12) having at least one vertically oriented stunning axis (14) and the transport device (13) comprising at least one lifting device (15), the stunning shaft (14) is arranged such that each transport container (11) can be lowered from top to bottom into the stunning chamber (12) on a first transport path, transversely from the first transport path to a second transport path in the region of the bottom (16) of the stunning shaft (14) and can be lifted from bottom to top on the second transport path; and a device (17), which is arranged in the region of the base (16) of the stunning shaft (14), for introducing a stunning gas into the stunning shaft (14) in order to form a stunning medium formed by ambient air and the stunning gas inside the stunning shaft (14), the device being distinguished in that a ventilation system (18) is arranged inside the stunning shaft (14) of the stunning chamber (12), at least part of the stunning medium is circulated at least in the upper region of the stunning chamber (12). The invention also relates to a corresponding method.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to an apparatus configured and adapted for stunning poultry animals for slaughter supplied in a plurality of transport containers in a stunning chamber, comprising: a stunning chamber; a transport device for introducing the plurality of transport containers into the stunning chamber, transporting the plurality of transport containers through the stunning chamber and discharging the plurality of transport containers from the stunning chamber, wherein the stunning chamber has at least one vertically oriented stunning shaft and the transport device comprises at least one lifting device, so that each transport container can be lowered into the stunning chamber from top to bottom on a first transport path, in the region of the bottom of the stunning shaft transversely from the first transport path to a second transport path and can be lifted on the second transport path from bottom to top; and a device, which is arranged in the region of the bottom of the stunning shaft, for introducing stunning gas into the stunning shaft in order to form a stunning medium formed by ambient air and stunning gas in the stunning chamber.

[0002] The invention also relates to a method for stunning poultry animals for slaughter in a stunning chamber which are supplied to the stunning chamber in a plurality of transport containers, comprising the steps of introducing the plurality of transport containers with the poultry animals for slaughter which are alive and alert into the stunning chamber, lowering the plurality of transport containers along a first transport path from top to bottom in a vertically oriented stunning axis of the stunning chamber, transporting the plurality of transport containers transversely from the first transport path to a second transport path in the bottom region of the stunning axis, lifting the plurality of transport containers with the poultry animals for slaughter along the second transport path from bottom to top, The invention relates to a method for discharging the plurality of transport containers for the slaughtered poultry animals, wherein a stun gas is introduced into the stunning shaft in the region of the bottom of the stunning shaft so as to form a stunning medium consisting of ambient air and the stun gas in the stunning chamber, so that the plurality of transport containers with the poultry animals for slaughter located therein along a first transport path first pass through a first upper chamber part with a first gas concentration of the stun gas and then pass through a second lower chamber part with a second gas concentration of the stun gas, wherein the second gas concentration is higher than the first gas concentration. Background Art

[0003] Such an apparatus and method are used in the poultry processing industry to stun poultry animals for slaughter, that is to say, in particular live and alert chickens, which are transported in transport containers before they are actually processed, that is to say, in particular slaughtered and eviscerated. For transportation, a plurality of poultry animals for slaughter are accommodated in transport containers. The poultry animals for slaughter are supplied to the stunning apparatus in these transport containers, that is, in individual transport containers or in a stack of transport containers. The transport containers or the stack formed by two or more transport containers can be supplied in one aisle, in two aisles or in a plurality of aisles. The stunning of the poultry animals for slaughter must be carried out very carefully in a plurality of steps in accordance with animal welfare. According to existing animal welfare guidelines, the poultry animals for slaughter must be put into a pre-stunning state or a sleeping state before the actual final stunning, which is carried out with a gas concentration of 40% or more of the stunning gas, for example carbon dioxide (CO2), in the stunning medium. For this purpose, the poultry animals for slaughter will be exposed to a stunning medium having a gas concentration of about 20% of the stunning gas before the actual and final stunning. In other words, the poultry animals for slaughter pass through at least two stunning stages with different gas concentrations of the stunning gas in the stunning medium.

[0004] Stunning stages are formed in the stunning device by different levels or layers of stunning medium in the stunning chamber. Stunning gas is introduced into the stunning chamber in the region of the bottom of the stunning shaft so that the stunning gas mixes with the ambient air to form the stunning medium. In the stunning chamber, into which stunning gas, such as CO2, is introduced in the region of the bottom, different gas concentrations prevail due to the higher density of CO2 and other suitable and permitted stunning gases relative to the ambient air. The gas concentration of the stunning gas increases from the top to the bottom. By means of a transport device comprising at least one lifting device, the transport container is moved downwards along a first transport path so that the poultry animals for slaughter are first exposed to the stunning medium in the upper chamber part, which has a lower gas concentration of the stunning gas. As a result, the poultry animals for slaughter enter a sleep-like state. Then, the pre-stunned / sleeping poultry animals for slaughter are transported further downwards by the transport device in the direction towards the bottom into the lower chamber part with the higher gas concentration of the stunning gas so that they reach the final stunned state. In this case, the transport container can be transported right to the bottom or - in order to achieve a shorter distance / shorter residence time in the stunning chamber - in the direction of the bottom. The poultry animals for slaughter, which have now been finally stunned, are then transported laterally / laterally in the bottom region or also above the bottom by means of the transport device in order to then be transported upwards along the second transport path by means of the transport device.

[0005] In known devices for stunning poultry animals, there is a common and unobstructed stunning chamber into which the stunning gas is introduced or pumped from the bottom. On the one hand, this has the result that an inconsistent gradient of gas concentration in the stunning chamber is established. It can happen that a region with a higher gas concentration of 40% or more of the stunning gas extends from the lower chamber part to the upper chamber part, so that the still alert poultry animals for slaughter are directly exposed to the stunning medium with the high gas concentration for the final stunning. On the other hand, due to its higher density, it can cause the stunning gas to sink in an uncontrolled manner, so that a stunning medium is formed in the upper chamber part of the stunning chamber in which the gas concentration of the stunning gas is below 20%, so that the poultry animals for slaughter are in an alert state when they reach the lower chamber part of the stunning chamber with a stunning gas concentration of 40% or more. In all cases, pumping the stun gas from the bottom into the unobstructed stun chamber results in an uncontrolled and uncontrolled variation of the composition of the stun medium in the chamber portion of the stun chamber, which results in unreliable stunning of the poultry animals for slaughter and is detrimental to animal welfare. Furthermore, in particular in the event of prolonged downtime of the plant, undesired / uncontrolled adjustments of the composition of the stun medium may occur due to the settling of the stun gas into the stun chamber. Summary of the invention

[0006] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a simple and reliable device for the controlled and gentle stunning of poultry animals for slaughter. Another object of the present invention is to propose a corresponding method.

[0007] This object is achieved by an apparatus having the features mentioned at the outset, wherein a ventilation system is arranged inside a stunning shaft of a stunning chamber, which is configured and adapted to circulate at least part of the stunning medium at least in the upper region of the stunning chamber. The ventilation system is arranged inside the stunning shaft, which can be, for example, a pit arranged in the ground, and is configured and adapted to circulate an air flow formed by the stunning medium in the upper region, i.e. in the upper chamber part. As a result of the circulation, i.e. as a result of the suction and return of the stunning medium, a (invisible) air / flow curtain forms and divides the at least two chamber parts with different gas concentrations, i.e. into an upper chamber part with a lower gas concentration of stunning gas (about 20%) and a lower chamber part with a higher gas concentration of stunning gas (about 40%). The circulation of the stunning medium at least in the upper chamber part forms a kind of barrier between the chamber parts, which at least partially prevents free mixing of the stunning medium between the chamber parts. In particular, the circulation also reduces the risk of stunning gas having a greater density than the ambient air entering from the upper chamber part into the lower chamber part. By producing constant stunning conditions in the respective chamber parts with respective gas concentrations of stunning gas in the stunning medium, the poultry animals for slaughter are quieter and experience greater animal welfare during stunning, which is also reflected in a higher quality of meat harvested from the slaughtered poultry animals.

[0008] A particularly preferred embodiment of the device is characterized in that the ventilation system comprises means for varying the gas concentration of the stunning gas in the circulating stunning medium. The means can be configured and adapted to increase the gas concentration or to reduce the gas concentration at least in the upper chamber part. Thus, a targeted and localized regulation of the gas concentration of the stunning gas in the stunning medium is ensured at least in the upper chamber part. As a result, the distribution of the necessary and desired gas concentration of the stunning gas in the stunning chamber can be maintained more easily and more precisely and in particular can also be monitored and regulated, which leads to better and gentler sedation of the poultry animals for slaughter, improved animal welfare and thus improved quality of the meat harvested from the slaughtered poultry. Before the poultry animals for slaughter are finally stunned in the lower chamber part, they first enter a sleep-like state in the upper chamber part safely, reliably and gently, which meets the guidelines for stunning poultry animals for slaughter.

[0009] Advantageously, the ventilation system comprises at least one first conduit line which is arranged at least partially within the stunning shaft, wherein the first conduit line is configured and adapted for sucking stun medium out of a first upper chamber part of the stunning chamber at the upper end of the stunning chamber and returning the sucked stun medium into the first upper chamber part. The conduit line is configured and arranged such that the sucking and returning of the stun medium preferably takes place at the upper end of the first upper chamber part. The conduit line is preferably arranged completely within the stunning shaft, wherein parts of the conduit line can also be guided on the outside of the stunning shaft. With the or each conduit line, the circulation forming the air curtain can be achieved in a simple and compact manner. The conduit line also makes it possible to place or define the position of a transition between two chamber parts in a simple manner, said transition "dividing" the stunning chamber into a plurality of parts / stages through which the poultry animals for slaughter can then be passed by means of a transport device.

[0010] A particularly preferred further development of the device is characterized in that the ventilation system comprises at least one second conduit line which is arranged at least partially within the stunning shaft, wherein the second conduit line is configured and adapted to suck stun medium out of a second lower chamber part of the stunning chamber which is located below a first upper chamber part of the stunning chamber and to return the sucked stun medium into the second lower chamber part. The second conduit line is configured and arranged such that the sucking and returning of the stun medium preferably takes place at the upper end of the second lower chamber part. The second conduit line is preferably arranged completely within the stunning shaft, wherein parts of the conduit line can also be guided on the outside of the stunning shaft. Preferably, for a compact and space-saving construction, the second conduit line extends parallel to the first conduit line or follows the first conduit line. By providing two separate conduit lines, an even more pronounced "separation" of the two chamber parts from each other can be achieved, so that a desired and necessary gas concentration of the stunning gas in the respective chamber part can be reliably maintained and kept constant.

[0011] A preferred further development of the device is characterized in that each conduit line comprises at least a conduit for conducting a stunning medium, means at a first free end of the conduit for sucking the stunning medium out of the respective chamber part, means at an opposite second free end of the conduit for returning the sucked stunning medium into the respective chamber part, means for transporting the stunning medium through the conduit, and also measuring means for measuring the gas concentration of the stunning medium sucked out of the respective chamber part. The means for sucking and the means for returning the stunning medium are located in the region of the respective chamber part. The conduits can be located inside the respective chamber part or at least partially outside the respective chamber part. By this embodiment, the circulation of the stunning medium is ensured in a simple and compact manner. Each conduit line is configured independently of the other conduit lines.

[0012] An advantageous embodiment of the device is characterized in that associated with each pipeline line there is a mechanism for supplying stunning gas and / or ambient air into the pipeline. This embodiment of the mechanism for varying the gas concentration of the stunning gas allows the gas concentration to be adjusted and varied online, so to speak, i.e. in a very precise and simple manner, wherein for example pure stunning gas or pure ambient air or a mixture thereof can be introduced directly into the circulating stunning medium of the respective pipeline line without intermediate mechanisms. In particular, the respective pipeline lines can thus be adjusted individually and separately with respect to the respective gas concentration.

[0013] Advantageously, each duct consists of at least three parts, namely at least one part oriented vertically downwards, at least one part oriented vertically upwards and at least one horizontally oriented part connecting the two vertically oriented parts. The duct can also be formed integrally or in one piece. A construction of the duct in more than three parts is also achievable. The multi-piece form, in particular when the parts are detachably connected to one another, ensures individual adjustment to external conditions such as, for example, the internal shape / contour of the stunning shaft, the construction and structure of the transport device, in order to, for example, allow a collision-free arrangement of the ventilation system inside the stunning shaft. The vertical parts can extend from the upper end of the stunning shaft to the bottom of the stunning shaft, or only over parts thereof. The distance between the individual vertical parts of the duct corresponds at least to the width of a transport container, in the case of a stunning shaft filled with multiple lines, at least to the width of a plurality of transport containers arranged side by side. Particularly preferably, the duct follows the principle of the shortest path in order to connect together the means for suction and the means for return.

[0014] Preferably, there is at least one drive associated with each pipeline for sucking stun medium into the pipeline and returning stun medium from the pipeline. Finally, for example, a pump can be used as drive for each pipeline line. However, preferably, two pumps, motors, drives or other devices configured and adapted to generate a flow are associated with each pipeline line. Particularly preferably, a separate drive is associated with each vertically oriented section of the pipeline, so that suction on the one hand and return on the other hand can be controlled in a targeted and individual manner. The number and position of the drives can vary. Preferably, the drives are arranged in the vicinity of the means for suction or return.

[0015] A preferred further development of the device is characterized in that the means for extracting the stunning medium comprises at least one suction nozzle. The means can also comprise two or more suction nozzles, the form, shape and number of which can vary and in particular be adapted to the size of the respective chamber part.

[0016] Particularly advantageously, the or each suction nozzle is oriented transversely and / or parallel to the vertically oriented part of the duct. A horizontal orientation is preferred, in particular when the or each suction nozzle is in elongated form or in the form of a suction nozzle rod, so that the stunning medium can be sucked over the entire width of the chamber part. For reasons of space or in order to avoid collisions of a transport container with the or each suction nozzle or for other reasons, this can also be oriented vertically. In case more than one suction nozzle is provided, some of the suction nozzles can be oriented horizontally and others vertically.

[0017] Advantageously, measuring means for measuring the gas concentration of the stun gas in the stun medium pumped out of the respective chamber portion are associated with the means for pumping the stun medium. Thus, during pumping the actual gas concentration can be determined directly, with sufficient time to determine deviations from a target value and optionally to control the means for varying the gas concentration.

[0018] Advantageously, at least one sensor is arranged inside each suction nozzle for detecting the gas concentration of the stunning gas in the suctioned stunning medium. It is also possible to provide more than one sensor. In the case of means for return, further detection means can be arranged in the region of the suction nozzle and / or inside the pipe, in particular for determining the gas concentration, but also for determining other parameters such as, for example, the flow rate of the stunning medium. Particularly preferably, all detected values ​​or otherwise determined information are recorded and preferably forwarded to the control device for processing.

[0019] Preferably, the means for returning the stunning medium comprises at least one return nozzle. The means may also comprise two or more return nozzles, the form, shape and number of which can vary and in particular be adapted to the size of the respective chamber part.

[0020] Advantageously, the or each return nozzle is oriented transversely and / or parallel to the vertically oriented portion of the duct. In particular, when the or each return nozzle is of elongated form or in the form of a suction nozzle rod, a horizontal orientation is preferred so that the stunning medium can be returned over the entire width of the chamber portion. For reasons of space or to avoid collisions of transport containers with the or each return nozzle or for other reasons, this can also be oriented vertically. In case more than one return nozzle is provided, some of the return nozzles can be oriented horizontally and others vertically.

[0021] A particularly preferred embodiment of the device is characterized in that the means for changing the gas concentration of the stunning gas are associated with the means for returning the stunning medium, thereby ensuring a targeted and precise adjustment of the gas concentration directly before the stunning medium re-enters the stunning chamber.

[0022] In order to ensure a continuous or stepwise adjustment of the gas concentration in a simple and reliable manner, means for external supply of ambient air and / or stunning gas are associated with each return nozzle. In this context, "external" means that the supplied / added components, ambient air and / or stunning gas are supplied from the outside into the circulation in order to adjust / change the composition of the stunning medium. The means for supplying ambient air and / or stunning gas preferably comprises a supply duct which is arranged in the region of each return nozzle and is connected thereto. The supply duct is optionally connected to a reservoir of stunning gas or ambient air, which ensures a separate supply of the components or a joint mixed supply of the components.

[0023] A particularly preferred further development of the device is characterized in that the ventilation system is connected to a control device for regulating the gas concentration of the stunning gas in the stunning medium. Optionally, some or all of the individual components which can contribute to the variation of the circulation and / or the gas concentration, i.e. in particular the means for sucking the stunning medium with measuring means for measuring the gas concentration, the means for returning the stunning medium with means for external supply of ambient air and / or stunning gas and the drive for transporting the stunning medium in the pipeline, are connected to the control device. Furthermore, a transport device can also be connected to the control device.

[0024] This object is also achieved by a method having the steps mentioned at the outset, characterized in that the stun medium circulates at least in the upper region of the stun chamber, i.e. at least in the first upper chamber part, wherein at least a portion of the stun medium is sucked out of the first upper chamber part and returned into the first upper chamber part. A permanent flow movement of the portion of the stun medium, i.e. the portion located in the first upper chamber part, is thereby achieved, as a result of which a separation from the stun medium in the second lower chamber part is finally achieved. In other words, the circulation of the stun medium in one chamber part forms a kind of barrier between the individual chamber parts, as a result of which the respective gas concentrations in the respective chamber parts can be kept substantially constant.

[0025] Preferably, the stun medium is additionally and separately circulated in the lower region of the stun chamber, i.e. in the second lower chamber part, wherein at least a portion of the stun medium is sucked out of the second lower chamber part and returned into the second lower chamber part. The effect achieved by the circulation in the first upper chamber part is further enhanced by the circulation in the lower second part. Furthermore, the stun chamber can also be divided into more than two chamber parts, wherein the circulation of the stun medium can be carried out in each of the plurality of chamber parts.

[0026] Preferably, the gas concentration of the stunning gas in the circulating stunning medium is regulated for each chamber section. The regulation can be performed continuously or stepwise and serves to keep the gas concentration in each chamber section at a desired and necessary level. In other words, the individual regulation of the gas concentration is preferably performed continuously in separate circuits so that the poultry animals for slaughter are first put to sleep in a first upper chamber section with a gas concentration of stunning gas of about 20% before they are finally stunned with a gas concentration of stunning gas of about 40%.

[0027] To this end, the gas concentration of the stunning gas in the circulating stunning medium is detected after being pumped out of the respective chamber portion. If the gas concentration in the circulating stunning medium deviates from a target value, the gas concentration is adjusted, wherein stunning gas and / or ambient air is supplied to the circulating stunning medium when the circulating stunning medium is returned to the respective chamber portion.

[0028] Advantageously, the circulation of the stunning medium and / or the adjustment of the gas concentration of the stunning gas in the circulating stunning medium is controlled individually for each chamber section.

[0029] Particularly preferably, the method is performed using a device according to one or more of claims 1 to 19 .

[0030] Further advantages resulting from the individual method steps have already been described in conjunction with the device, so that in order to avoid repetitions, reference is made to the corresponding paragraphs. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] Further advantageous and / or useful features and further developments relating to the device and the corresponding method will become apparent from the dependent claims and the description. Particularly preferred embodiments will be explained in more detail with reference to the attached drawings. The drawings show: Figure 1 A schematic representation of a device according to the invention with a dual-channel supply of transport containers and a single-channel discharge thereof is shown in the front view, Figure 2 The perspective view from behind shows the Figure 1 equipment, and Figure 3 A schematic representation of a ventilation system is shown in a perspective view. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] The apparatus according to the invention shown is used for stunning poultry animals for slaughter. The invention will be described with reference to an apparatus in which transport containers are supplied in two lines to the area of ​​a stunning chamber arranged at ground level. The invention can of course also be used in the case of an apparatus in which transport containers are supplied in one line or in a plurality of lines to a vertically oriented stunning chamber which is arranged and placed above ground level. Finally, the ventilation system can be used in any apparatus for stunning different types of animals in which the stunning chamber is divided or is to be divided into two or more chamber parts.

[0033] The device 10 shown in the drawings is configured and adapted for stunning poultry animals for slaughter supplied in a plurality of transport containers 11 in a stunning chamber 12 and comprises: a stunning chamber 12; a transport device 13 for introducing the plurality of transport containers 11 into the stunning chamber 12, transporting the plurality of transport containers 11 through the stunning chamber 12 and discharging the plurality of transport containers 11 from the stunning chamber 12, wherein the stunning chamber 12 has at least one vertically oriented stunning axis 14 and the transport device 13 comprises at least one lifting device 15, so that each transport container 11 can be lowered into the stun chamber 12 on a first transport path from top to bottom, in the region of a bottom 16 of the stun shaft 14 transversely from the first transport path to a second transport path and can be lifted on the second transport path from bottom to top; and also a device 17, which is arranged in the region of the bottom 16 of the stun shaft 14, for introducing stun gas into the stun shaft 14 in order to form a stun medium formed of ambient air and stun air in the stun chamber 12.

[0034] According to the invention, the device 10 is distinguished in that inside the stunning shaft 14 of the stunning chamber 12 a ventilation system 18 is arranged which is configured and adapted to circulate at least part of the stunning medium at least in the upper region of the stunning chamber 12 .

[0035] When considered individually or in combination with each other, the features and further developments described below represent preferred embodiments. It is particularly noted that the features combined in the claims and / or the description and / or the drawings or the features described in the common embodiments can also further develop the above-described device 10 independently in terms of functionality.

[0036] The transport device 13 with at least one lifting device 15 comprises a first lift 19 for transporting transport containers 11 from top to bottom along a first transport path, a transverse conveyor 20 for transporting the transport containers 11 from the first transport path to a second transport path, and a second lift 21 for transporting the transport containers 11 from bottom to top along the second transport path. In the embodiment shown, the first lift 19 is configured and adapted to transport two transport containers 11 side by side (or a stack formed by a plurality of transport containers and placed side by side). The second lift 21 is configured and adapted to transport one transport container 11 (or a stack formed by a plurality of transport containers). A distance of at least the width of the transport container 11 is arranged between the first lift 19 and the second lift 21, so that in the region of the transverse conveyor 20, two transport containers 11 placed side by side are transported transversely from the first transport path to the second transport path, wherein one of the two transport containers 11 is directly supplied to the second lift 21, while the second transport container 11 is temporarily stored in the temporary storage 22. The lifts 19 , 21 have separate drives (not explicitly shown) by means of which they can be driven synchronously or individually. Preferably, the transport speed of the second lift 21 is higher than the transport speed of the first lift 19 .

[0037] The ventilation system 18 comprises means 23.1, 23.2 for varying the gas concentration of the stunning gas in the circulating stunning medium. The means 23.1, 23.2 may have supply and / or discharge ducts, nozzles, containers for storing stunning gas and / or ambient air, and / or other additional components for conveying external components to be supplied to the stunning medium, drives or pumps, and other components configured and adapted to vary the gas concentration. Specific embodiments will be described below.

[0038] Ventilation system18 (see especially Figure 3 ) comprises at least one first conduit line 24, which is at least partially arranged inside the stunning shaft 14, wherein the first conduit line 24 is configured and adapted to suck stun medium out of a first upper chamber part 25 of the stunning chamber 12, which is located at the upper end of the stunning chamber 12, and to return the sucked stun medium into the first upper chamber part 25. Furthermore, the ventilation system 18 comprises at least one second conduit line 26, which is at least partially arranged inside the stunning shaft 14, wherein the second conduit line 26 is configured and adapted for sucking stun medium out of a second lower chamber part 27 of the stunning chamber 12, which is located below the first upper chamber part 25 of the stunning chamber 12, and for returning the sucked stun medium into the second lower chamber part 27. In other embodiments, three or more conduit lines 24, 26 can also be provided.

[0039] Each conduit line 24, 26 comprises at least: a conduit 28, 31 for introducing stunning medium; means 34, 35 for sucking stunning medium out of the respective chamber part 25, 27 at a first free end 29, 32 of the conduit 28, 31 and means 36, 37 for returning the sucked stunning medium into the respective chamber part 25, 27 at an opposite second free end 30, 33 of the conduit 28, 31; means 38, 39 for transporting stunning medium through the conduit 28, 31; and measuring means 40, 41 for measuring the gas concentration of the stunning medium sucked out of the respective chamber part 25, 27. Each conduit 28, 31 with the means 34, 35 for sucking and the means 36, 37 for returning arranged at the free ends 29, 30; 32, 33 may be configured individually and arranged in the stunning axis 14. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the means 34 for suction and the means 36 for return of the first conduit line 24 project into the first upper chamber part 25 or face that chamber part, while the means 35 for suction and the means 37 for return of the second conduit line 26 project into the second lower chamber part 27 or turn towards that chamber part. The distance of the respective means 34, 36 of the first conduit line 24 on the one hand and the means 35, 37 of the second conduit line 26 on the other hand can vary. In the device 10 shown, all means 34, 36; 35, 37 of both conduit lines 24, 26 are located in the upper third of the stun chamber 12. The means 35, 37 of the second conduit line 26 for the lower chamber part 27 can also be placed, for example, at a lower position in the chamber part 27. Other arrangements and placements or arrangements of the means 34, 36; 35, 37 are of course also possible.

[0040] Furthermore, associated with each pipeline line 24, 26 are means 42, 43; 44, 45 for supplying stunning gas and / or ambient air into the pipelines 28, 31. The respective means 42 to 45 are only schematically shown and can comprise, for example, injection nozzles, valves, etc. for metered introduction of stunning gas and / or ambient air. Associated with the means 23.1, 23.2 for changing the gas concentration of the stunning gas are means 36, 37 for returning the stunning medium. The means 23.1, 23.2 for changing the gas concentration comprise, in addition to the means 42 to 45 for supplying the stunning gas and / or ambient air supply pipelines in the illustrated case, a reservoir (not explicitly shown) for storing the medium to be supplied, a pump or other drive for actively introducing / transporting the medium, and a valve by means of which the medium can be introduced into the pipeline line 24, 26 in a targeted manner. Associated with each return nozzle is at least one means 42 to 45 for external supply of ambient air and / or stunning gas. For this purpose, the supply pipeline opens / ends in the return nozzle. The means 23.1, 23.2 can of course also be installed at different locations. Also conceivable is a single pipeline which can be connected to different reservoirs via switching valves so that only stun gas or only ambient air or a mixture of stun gas and ambient air can be supplied to the pipeline lines 24, 26 via a single pipeline.

[0041] In the embodiment shown, each of the ducts 28, 31 is formed from at least three sections 28.1, 28.2, 28.3; 29.1, 29.2, 29.3, namely at least one section 28.1, 29.1 oriented vertically downwards, at least one section 28.3, 29.3 oriented vertically upwards, and at least one horizontally oriented section 28.2, 29.2 connecting two vertically oriented sections 28.1, 28.3; 29.1, 29.3. The three sections 28.1, 28.2, 28.3; 29.1, 29.2, 29.3 in each case form a U-shape. The vertical sections 28.1, 28.3; 29.1, 29.3 extend from the upper edge of the stunning axis 14 into the region of the base 16 of the stunning axis 14. In order to connect the respective means 34, 36; 35, 37 via the shortest path, the vertical parts 28.1, 28.3; 29.1, 29.3 can also be made shorter and have a different profile.

[0042] Associated with each duct 28, 31 is at least one drive for sucking stun medium into the duct 28, 31 and returning stun medium from the duct 28, 31. Preferably, two motors 46, 47; 48, 49, pumps or similar devices are associated with each duct 28, 31. One motor 46, 48 is preferably arranged directly behind the means 34, 35 for suction, that is to say in the transition area between the means 34, 35 and the vertical part 28.1, 29.1. The other motor 47, 49 is preferably arranged directly in front of the means 36, 37 for return, that is to say in the transition area between the means 36, 37 and the vertical part 28.3, 29.3. The number and position of the motors 46 to 49 can vary.

[0043] The means 34, 35 for sucking out the stunning medium comprise at least one suction nozzle. Preferably, each suction nozzle is of elongated form to form a suction rod. The suction opening of each suction nozzle / suction rod is directed towards the respective chamber section 25, 27 to allow the stunning medium to be sucked over the entire width of the chamber section 25, 27. In principle, the suction nozzles are oriented horizontally, i.e. transversely to the vertical sections 28.1, 29.1. This also applies to the suction nozzles of the first conduit line 24. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the suction nozzles of the second conduit line 26 are oriented vertically, i.e. parallel to the vertical sections 28.1, 29.1. Finally, the orientation can vary, in particular depending on the structural conditions of the transport container 11 and the transport path.

[0044] Measuring means 40, 41 for measuring the gas concentration of the stunning gas in the stunning medium pumped out of the respective chamber part 25, 27 are associated with the means 34, 35 for pumping the stunning medium. Preferably, at least one sensor is arranged inside each suction nozzle for detecting the gas concentration of the stunning gas in the pumped stunning medium. A sensor or any other measuring means 40, 41 adapted to determine the gas concentration may also be arranged at another location of the duct 28, 31.

[0045] The means 36, 37 for returning the stunning medium comprise at least one return nozzle. Preferably, each return nozzle is of elongated form to form a return rod. The return opening of each return nozzle / return rod is directed towards the respective chamber section 25, 27 to allow the stunning medium to be returned over the entire width of the chamber section 25, 27. In principle, the return nozzle is oriented horizontally, i.e. transversely to the vertical sections 28.3, 29.3. The return nozzles of the two pipeline lines 24, 26 are oriented accordingly. Finally, the orientation can be varied, in particular, depending on the structural conditions of the transport container 11 and the transport path. In particular, the return nozzle can also be oriented vertically, that is to say parallel to the vertical sections 28.3, 29.3.

[0046] The ventilation system 18 is connected to a control device 50 for regulating the gas concentration of the stunning gas in the stunning medium. In addition to a processor by means of which the detected data and information are processed, the control device 50 may also comprise a storage medium, for example in order to store data sets. In particular, however, the means 23.1, 23.2 for regulating the gas concentration in the stunning medium may be controlled by means of the control device 50 in order to keep the composition of the stunning medium constant at a desired and necessary concentration.

[0047] The method according to the present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0048] The method is used for stunning poultry animals for slaughter in a stunning chamber 12, which are supplied to the stunning chamber 12 in transport containers 11, and is configured accordingly. The poultry animals for slaughter are usually placed in the transport containers 11 in the area of ​​the farm, wherein preferably a plurality of poultry animals for slaughter are present in one transport container 11. The or each transport container 11 with the live and alert poultry animals for slaughter is introduced into the stunning chamber 12 for stunning. In the stunning chamber 12, the transport containers 11 are transported along a given path. To this end, each transport container 11 is first lowered from the top to the bottom in a vertically oriented stunning shaft 14 of the stunning chamber 12 along a first transport path. Then, in the region of the bottom 16 of the stunning shaft 14 (or also above the bottom in the case of shorter transport paths), the transport container 11 is transported transversely from the first transport path to a second transport path. Then, the transport container 11 with the stunned poultry animals for slaughter is lifted from the bottom to the top along the second transport path. Finally, the transport container 11 is discharged from the stun chamber 12. In the region of the bottom 16 of the stun shaft 14, stun gas is introduced into the stun shaft 14 to form a stun medium formed of ambient air and stun gas in the stun chamber 12. Since the stun gas is introduced into the region of the bottom 16 and the density of the stun gas is higher than the density of the ambient air, a plurality of layers with different gas concentrations of the stun gas are formed in the stun chamber 12, wherein the gas concentration of the stun gas increases from the top to the bottom. As a result, the transport container 11 with the poultry animals for slaughter located therein along the first transport path first passes through the first upper chamber portion 25 with the first gas concentration of the stun gas and then passes through the second lower chamber portion 27 with the second gas concentration of the stun gas, wherein the second gas concentration is higher than the first gas concentration.

[0049] According to the invention, this method is distinguished in that the stunning medium circulates at least in the upper region of the stunning chamber 12, that is to say at least in the first upper chamber part 25, wherein at least part of the stunning medium is sucked out of the first upper chamber part 25 and returned into the first upper chamber part 25.

[0050] Preferably, the stunning medium is additionally and separately circulated in the lower region of the stunning chamber 12, i.e. in the second lower chamber part 27, wherein at least part of the stunning medium is sucked out of the second lower chamber part 27 and returned into the second lower chamber part 27. Only the at least partial circulation of the stunning medium in each chamber part 25, 27 has the result that different layers of the stunning medium with different gas concentrations of the stunning gas remain at least partially "separated", i.e. a free exchange of, in particular, the stunning gas between the two chamber parts 25, 27 is prevented or at least made more difficult.

[0051] Furthermore, the gas concentration of the stunning gas in the circulating stunning medium can be adjusted for each chamber part 25, 27. The adjustment can be performed continuously or - depending on the deviation based on the target / actual comparison - stepwise. For this purpose, the gas concentration of the stunning gas in the circulating stunning medium can be detected after the stunning medium has been sucked out of the respective chamber part 25, 27. If there is a deviation from a target value of the gas concentration - in the upper chamber part, for example from 20% and in the lower chamber part, for example from 40%, the gas concentration of the stunning gas in the circulating stunning medium is adjusted, wherein stunning gas and / or ambient air is supplied to the circulating stunning medium when the circulating stunning medium returns to the respective chamber part 25, 27. The stunning gas and / or ambient air can be supplied externally, for example from a separate reservoir. Alternatively, the stunning medium with (excess) stunning gas may be sucked out of the stunning chamber 12, preferably out of the second lower chamber part 27, and supplied to, for example, the first upper chamber part 25. Preferably, the circulation of the stunning medium and / or the adjustment of the gas concentration of the stunning gas in the circulating stunning medium is controlled individually for each chamber part 25, 27.

[0052] Particularly preferably, the method is carried out using a device 10 according to one or more of claims 1 to 19 .

Claims

1. Apparatus (10) configured and adapted for stunning poultry animals for slaughter supplied in a plurality of transport containers (11) in a stunning chamber (12), comprising: Stunning chamber (12); A transport device (13) for introducing a plurality of transport containers (11) into a stun chamber (12), transporting a plurality of transport containers (11) through the stun chamber (12) and discharging the plurality of transport containers (11) from the stun chamber (12), wherein the stun chamber (12) has at least one vertically oriented stunning axis (14) and the transport device (13) comprises at least one lifting device (15) so that each transport container (11) can be lowered into the stun chamber (12) from top to bottom on a first transport path in the region of the bottom (16) of the stunning axis (14). A device (17) is provided for introducing a stun gas into the stun shaft (14) in the region of the bottom (16) of the stun chamber (12) so as to form a stun medium formed of ambient air and stun gas inside the stun chamber (12), characterized in that a ventilation system (18) is arranged inside the stun shaft (14) of the stun chamber (12) and is configured and adapted to circulate at least part of the stun medium at least in the upper region of the stun chamber (12).

2. The device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that The ventilation system (18) comprises means (23) for varying the gas concentration of the stunning gas in the circulating stunning medium.

3. The device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The ventilation system (18) comprises at least one first conduit line (24) which is at least partially arranged within the stunning shaft (14), wherein the first conduit line (24) is configured and adapted to suck stun medium out of a first upper chamber part (25) of the stunning chamber (12) at an upper end of the stunning chamber (12) and to return the sucked stun medium to the first upper chamber part (25).

4. The device (10) according to claim 3, characterized in that The ventilation system (18) comprises at least one second conduit line (26) which is arranged at least partially inside the stunning shaft (14), wherein the second conduit line (26) is configured and adapted to suck stun medium out of a second lower chamber part (27) of the stunning chamber (12) located below the first upper chamber part (25) of the stunning chamber (12) and to return the sucked stun medium to the second lower chamber part (27).

5. The device (10) according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that Each conduit line (24, 26) comprises at least a conduit (28, 31) for conducting the stun medium, means (34, 35) at a first free end (29, 32) of the conduit (28, 31) for sucking the stun medium out of the respective chamber portion (25, 27), means (36, 37) at an opposite second free end (30, 33) of the conduit (28, 31) for returning the sucked stun medium into the respective chamber portion (25, 27), means (38, 39) for transporting the stun medium through the conduit (28, 31) and also measuring means (40, 41) for measuring the gas concentration of the stun medium sucked out of the respective chamber portion (25, 27).

6. Device (10) according to one or more of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that Associated with each duct line (24, 26) there are means (42, 43; 44, 45) for supplying stunning gas and / or ambient air into said ducts (28, 31).

7. The device (10) according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that Each duct (28, 31) consists of at least three parts (28.1, 28.2, 28.3; 29.1, 29.2, 29.3), namely at least one part (28.1, 29.1) oriented vertically downward, at least one part (28.3, 29.3) oriented vertically upward, and at least one horizontally oriented part (28.2, 29.2) connecting two vertically oriented parts (28.1, 28.2; 29.1, 29.2).

8. Device (10) according to one or more of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that There is at least one drive associated with each duct (28, 31) for pumping the stunning medium into the duct (28, 31) and returning the stunning medium from the duct (28, 31).

9. Device (10) according to one or more of claims 5 to 8, characterized in that The means (34, 35) for aspirating the stunning medium comprises at least one suction nozzle.

10. The device (10) according to claim 9, characterized in that The or each suction nozzle is oriented transversely and / or parallel to the vertically oriented portion (28.1, 28.2; 29.1, 29.2) of the duct (28, 31).

11. Device (10) according to one or more of claims 5 to 10, characterized in that The conduits (28, 31) connect together the means (34, 35) for suction and the means (36, 37) for return in each case via the shortest possible path.

12. Device (10) according to one or more of claims 5 to 11, characterized in that The measuring means (40, 41) for measuring the gas concentration of the stunning gas in the stunning medium pumped out of the respective chamber portion (25, 27) are associated with the means (34, 35) for pumping the stunning medium.

13. The device (10) according to claim 12, characterized in that At least one sensor is arranged inside each suction nozzle for detecting the gas concentration of the stunning gas in the suctioned stunning medium.

14. Device (10) according to one or more of claims 5 to 13, characterized in that The means (36, 37) for returning the stunning medium comprises at least one return nozzle.

15. The device (10) according to claim 14, characterized in that The or each return nozzle is oriented transversely and / or parallel to a vertically oriented portion (28.1, 28.2; 29.1, 29.2) of the duct (28, 31).

16. Device (10) according to one or more of claims 5 to 15, characterized in that The means (23) for varying the gas concentration of the stunning gas are associated with the means (36, 37) for returning the stunning medium.

17. Device (10) according to one or more of claims 14 to 16, characterized in that Said means (42, 43; 44, 45) for external supply of ambient air and / or stunning gas are associated with each return nozzle.

18. Device (10) according to one or more of claims 14 to 17, characterized in that In the region of each return nozzle at least one supply duct is arranged for supplying ambient air and / or stunning gas to the return nozzle.

19. Device (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that The ventilation system (18) is connected to a control device (50) for regulating the gas concentration of the stunning gas in the stunning medium.

20. A method for stunning poultry animals for slaughter in a stunning chamber (12) which are supplied to the stunning chamber (12) in a plurality of transport containers (11), comprising the following steps: - introducing said plurality of transport containers (11) with live and alert poultry animals for slaughter into said stunning chamber (12), - lowering the plurality of transport containers (11) from top to bottom in a vertically oriented stunning axis (14) of the stunning chamber (12) along a first transport path, - transversely transporting the plurality of transport containers (11) from the first transport path to a second transport path in the region of the bottom (16) of the stunning shaft (14), - lifting said plurality of transport containers (11) with stunned poultry animals for slaughter along said second transport path from bottom to top, and - discharging the plurality of transport containers (11), wherein - Stunning gas is introduced into the stunning shaft (14) in the region of the bottom (16) of the stunning shaft (14) so ​​as to form a stunning medium consisting of ambient air and stunning gas in the stunning chamber (12) so that - the plurality of transport containers (11) with poultry animals for slaughter located therein first pass along the first transport path through a first upper chamber section (25) having a first gas concentration of the stun gas and then through a second lower chamber section (27) having a second gas concentration of the stun gas, wherein the second gas concentration in the lower chamber section (27) is higher than the first gas concentration, Characterized in that the stun medium circulates at least in the upper region of the stun chamber (12), that is to say at least in the first upper chamber part (25), wherein at least a portion of the stun medium is sucked out of the first upper chamber part (25) and returns to the first upper chamber part (25).

21. The method according to claim 20, characterized in that The stunning medium circulates additionally and separately in the lower region of the stunning chamber (12), namely in the second lower chamber part (27), wherein at least a portion of the stunning medium is sucked out of the second lower chamber part (27) and returned to the second lower chamber part (27).

22. The method according to claim 20 or 21, characterized in that The gas concentration of the stunning gas in the circulating stunning medium is adjusted for each chamber section (25, 27).

23. The method according to one or more of claims 20 to 22, characterized in that The gas concentration of the stunning gas in the circulating stunning medium is detected after being pumped out of the respective chamber portion (25, 27).

24. The method according to one or more of claims 20 to 23, characterized in that The gas concentration of the stunning gas in the circulating stunning medium is adjusted if it deviates from a target value, wherein stunning gas and / or ambient air is supplied to the circulating stunning medium when the circulating stunning medium is returned to the respective chamber part (25, 27).

25. Method according to one or more of claims 22 to 24, characterized in that The circulation of the stunning medium and / or the regulation of the gas concentration of the stunning gas in the circulating stunning medium is controlled individually for each chamber section (25, 27).

26. The method according to one or more of claims 20 to 25, characterized in that The method is performed using a device (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 19.

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