Improvements in conveying, orienting, grouping and packaging of products

Abstract

The present invention relates to a product handling system (1) comprising at least one product conveyor device (2) comprising a first belt conveyor (20A) comprising a first drive, a second belt conveyor (20B) comprising a second drive, and at least a third conveyor belt or roller mechanism (20D) comprising a third drive, wherein the first, second and third conveyor belt of each product conveyor device (2) extend in a transport direction (T) and are configured to convey products (330) in the transport direction (T), wherein the first and second belt conveyor (20A; 20B), and the third conveyor belt or roller mechanism (20D) provide a product space between them, are configured to support the products (330) on at least three sides thereof, wherein the product handling system (1) further comprises at least one sensor, in particular at least one camera (25C), configured for recording data, in particular images, of a product (330) which is conveyed by the product handling system (1), and a control unit (100) configured for processing the recorded data and controlling the first drive, second drive and third drive on the basis of the processed data.

Description

[0001] Title: Improvements in conveying, orienting, grouping and packaging of products

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates to conveying, orienting, grouping, labelling, packaging and other processing operations on products, in particular horticultural or agricultural products such as fruits, vegetables and flower bulbs, and rounded products such as rounded food products. In the prior art, systems for carrying out such operations are known.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] Horticultural and agricultural products may be difficult to process in an automated manner. This is due to the variation in the size and shape of such products. For example pears can have greatly varying shapes, making for example automatically orienting pears difficult.

[0006] Machines that orient fruit and place fruit in a container exist for decades. Machines of the prior art are typically based on a fixed distance between successive orientation devices in a packaging line. See for instance NL1012258C2, US2843251 , WO2021111421A1 and W02006062401A1. These systems have a same limitation, namely that the fixed distance between the orientation devices in the packaging line is generally greater than the distance between the products in the package. These orientation systems typically cannot deliver the products in the pitch of the package or tray. Hence, placing the products in the desired pitch in a desired pattern on the packaging is often done with a separate single pick robot such as a single delta robot. However, these robots have several disadvantages, one of which is that large horizontal accelerations and therefore greater force are created which may damage fragile products. Furthermore, such robots often have relatively long travel paths per product, resulting in a limited throughput. The skilled person will understand that the long travel path and the large horizontal accelerations are interrelated. Also, single pick robots may require a deeper cavity in a product tray, which increases costs.

[0007] In some older concepts, products were gripped with an array head having multiple rows and multiple columns of grippers. Such array heads had complex mechanisms for changing the pitch in X and Y direction. It was found that such array heads are overly complex, heavy and have long changeover times when the pattern in the packaging is changed. Further, it was recognized in the present invention that the process of orienting products is relatively slow and unreliable in existing systems and requires complex machinery.

[0008] In the present invention it was further recognized that existing systems are in particular not very good at automatically conveying, orienting, grouping, labelling, and packaging oblong products having a bulbous and a more narrow end, such as pears.

[0009] OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0010] It is an object of the present invention to provide improvements which take away at least one of the drawbacks and limitations discussed above and in general to provide systems and methods resulting in a faster and more automated way of conveying, orienting, grouping, labelling and / or packaging products. The products are in particular horticultural or agricultural products such as fruits, vegetables and flower bulbs, and rounded products such as rounded food products.

[0011] It is another object of the present invention to provide systems which are relatively compact, in particular narrow.

[0012] It is another object of the present invention to provide systems which are relatively simple and versatile. A versatile system can be used in different ways which allows the companies operating these systems to change the functionality relatively easy. A versatile system is also relatively easy to produce. Instead of producing several different systems, only a single system can be produced.

[0013] It is another object of the present invention to provide systems which avoid large suction forces on the products and avoid significant horizontal accelerations.

[0014] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0015] In order to achieve at least one object, the invention provides a product handling system comprising a frame and at least one product conveyor device configured for conveying and / or orienting products, in particular horticultural or agricultural products such as fruits and vegetables, flower bulbs and rounded food products, the product conveyor device comprising:

[0016] - a first belt conveyor comprising a first drive,

[0017] - a second belt conveyor comprising a second drive,

[0018] - at least a third conveyor belt or roller mechanism comprising a third drive, wherein the first and second belt conveyor, and the third conveyor belt or roller mechanism of each product conveyor device extend over a horizontal distance in a transport direction and are configured to convey products over a horizontal distance in the transport direction, wherein the first and second belt conveyor, and the third conveyor belt or roller mechanism provide a product space between them, and are configured to support the products on at least three sides thereof, wherein the product handling system further comprises:

[0019] - at least one sensor, in particular at least one camera, configured for recording data, in particular images, of a product which is conveyed by the product handling system,

[0020] - a control unit configured for processing the recorded data and controlling the first drive, second drive and third drive on the basis of the processed data.

[0021] The invention provides a reliable and efficient way of handling products. The device is in particular suitable for handling products with a bulbous shape such as apples, pears, strawberries, avocados, paprika’s and many other products. The device is also suitable to orient certain cheeses which have a somewhat round shape.

[0022] Any product which is somewhat (although not necessarily completely) round and which can be rotated by two conveyor belts and a movable contacting member, such as the third conveyor belt or the roller mechanism, and which comprises a feature which can be used for orienting (e.g. a shoot, an irregularity, a stalk or a colored area on the surface of a fruit) can be reoriented.

[0023] Depending on the product, any orientation about the X-axis, Y-axis and Z-axis is possible.

[0024] For instance, for apples there is a preference to package the apples with the red blush facing upwards and the stalk horizontal. The red blush provides a more attractive appearance for consumers. For other products, there may be other reasons for a specific orientation in a package.

[0025] A further advantage of the device according to the present invention may be that it can easily be combined with conventional belt conveyors or other types of conventional conveyors on the upstream side of the device and on the downstream side of the device, such as for example common packaging machines or a perpendicular discharge belt from a grader. The transfer to and from the device of the present invention can be relatively simple and integration of the present device in an existing processing line can be relatively cost-effective. The device may also be used as a scanner for scanning the product. The scanning works fast and reliable.

[0026] In an embodiment of the product handling system,

[0027] - the first belt conveyor is a left lower belt conveyor comprising a left drive,

[0028] - the second belt conveyor is a right lower belt conveyor comprising a right drive,

[0029] - the third conveyor belt or roller mechanism is configured to contact an upper side of the product, wherein the left and right lower belt conveyor diverge from one another in an upward direction, and in particular have a V-formation, wherein the left and right lower belt conveyor and the upper conveyor belt or roller mechanism provide the product space between them, wherein the left and right lower belt conveyor and the upper conveyor belt or roller mechanism are configured to support the products on at least three sides thereof.

[0030] The bottom angle of the V may for example be 60-130 degrees, in particular 90-120 degrees. In this embodiment, gravity advantageously does not negatively influence the aligning process and may actually positively assist the aligning process, because products, in particular elongated products tend to have the tendency to move to a lowest point which may be a gap between the first and second belt conveyor.

[0031] In an embodiment of the product handling system, the third conveyor belt or a part thereof configured to be in contact with the product, or the roller mechanism or a part thereof configured to be in contact with the product is movable in a direction transverse to the transport direction via a moving mechanism. Transverse can be horizontal, vertical or any combination thereof.

[0032] In an embodiment of the product handling system, a central vertical longitudinal plane is defined by the first and second belt conveyor, and the third conveyor belt or roller mechanism, wherein the third conveyor belt or roller mechanism, or a part thereof configured to be in contact with the product, is movable in a direction transverse to said central vertical longitudinal plane via the moving mechanism. A central vertical longitudinal plane may be defined by the first and second belt conveyor, and the third conveyor belt or roller mechanism, in particular in a centred position, said central vertical longitudinal plane extending between a contact area of the third conveyor belt or roller mechanism and through a midpoint of a straight line extending between the contact areas of the first and second belt conveyor. It may occur that during handling of the product the product loses contact with one of the support sides provided by the first belt conveyor, the second belt conveyor, and the third conveyor belt or roller mechanism. Loss of contact will mostly occur for the first belt conveyor and the second belt conveyor. This loss of contact can have various reasons. Often the reason is an irregular shape of the product, such as for example a flat side at the perimeter that is clearly deeper than the rest of the perimeter. The less round and more irregular shaped a product is, the more chance there is that a product can lose contact. This is in particular relevant when orienting the product. A contact loss at one of the product supports is undesired, because it negatively affects the control of the product and thereby the reliability of the product handling system.

[0033] When for example orienting the product to another orientation, it can happen that the product contour has a flat surface which lays deeper on the circumference. This can cause the product to be clamped between the upper, third conveyor belt or roller of the roller mechanism, and one of the lower belts which results in a loss of contact of the product with the other lower belt. As a consequence orienting force in one direction is lost, thereby hindering orienting of the product.

[0034] During orienting the upper, third conveyor belt or roller is pushed against the product and depending on local angles of the contact surface of the product, the local friction with the product and the length of the contact line, transverse forces act on the product contact face with the contacting members, i.e. the first and second belt conveyors and the third conveyor belt or roller mechanism. As a result of these forces, while orienting, the product may shift transverse relative to the initial contact face of the lower belts, upper belt or upper roller. The product can be pushed upwards relative to one of the lower belts as a result of the orienting forces which may cause one of the lower belts to be no longer be in contact with the product, as a result of which orienting in one direction is no longer possible. Conveyor belts that have a relatively low friction coefficient could prevent the product from losing contact to one of the lower belts because in that case the product will slide downwards between the two lower belts that are placed in a V configuration. But a low friction belt has a worse orienting, pitching and grouping performance. The upper belt or roller preferably has a relatively high friction with the product to prevent it from sliding of the surface of the product, especially because contact surfaces of fruits can have big angles and irregular shapes and locally lower friction. High friction lower belts tend to prevent the product from sliding down and contacting both lower belts, and in this way cause grip and orienting problems. Elongated pear shaped products are generally more difficult to orientate with low friction lower belts, because the required torque to orient pears is usually higher than the required torque for for example apples. If a low friction belt would be used for these elongated products the normal forces on the product needs to be higher which is a disadvantage because that could damage product. Also, slipping can cause damage to fruit products like brown or black marks on the skin which should be prevented.

[0035] Adding to the grip issue, is that fruit products often have just left the refrigerator after which they are packaged causing condensation to occur on the skin of the product, which can further reduce the coefficient of friction locally. Belt materials like soft polyurethane and silicone do have a high friction even when products are condensing but these belts have an even higher friction when products are dry. There can be wet and dry products in a same production run so it is not an option to change the belts between higher and lower friction for different products. The higher the friction of the belts with the product, the greater the chance that the orientation will halt due to loss of contact with the orienting belts with unfavourable shapes of the fruit and changing local friction coefficients. Because packaging of fruits is often a process that follows a grader machine that is difficult to stop or slow down, it is important that the orientation process proceeds without interruption independent of the product friction and shape of the product.

[0036] Allowing movement of the third conveyor belt or roller mechanism in the direction transverse to the transport direction improves the control and reliability of the product handling system, because it reduces the likelihood and the time or even prevents that the product loses contact with one of the products supports, i.e. the first belt conveyor, the second belt conveyor, and the third conveyor belt or roller mechanism.

[0037] In an embodiment the product handling system comprises a recontacting device configured to move the first belt conveyor, or a part thereof configured to be in contact with the product, and / or the second belt conveyor, or a part thereof configured to be in contact with the product, in a direction towards the product when one of the belts of the first belt conveyor and the second belt conveyor loses contact with the product. This way the product becomes more quickly back into contact with the belt of the first belt conveyor or the second belt conveyor, such that the product becomes engaged at three sides again and can be better controlled. The recontacting device may be configured to move the first belt conveyor and / or second belt conveyor in a horizontal direction, a vertical direction or a combination of a horizontal and vertical direction, for example a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the support surface of the respective belt conveyor. The recontacting device may inverse the movement between the first and second belt conveyor. The inverse movement can be achieved either mechanically or by at least one actuator based on at least one sensor. In an embodiment of the product handling system, the first belt conveyor, wherein the first belt conveyor, in particular the left lower belt conveyor, or part thereof, is coupled to the second belt conveyor, in particular the right lower belt conveyor, or part thereof, via a coupling mechanism, wherein the coupling mechanism is configured to cause an upward movement, or a movement in the direction towards the product, of the first belt conveyor or part thereof upon a downward movement, or a movement in the direction away from the product, of the second belt conveyor or part thereof, and vice versa. The coupling mechanism may be part of the recontacting device.

[0038] The coupling mechanism between the first belt conveyor and the second belt conveyor also, in itself, reduces the likelihood that the product loses contact with one of the products supports, thereby improving the control and reliability of the product conveyor device, and thereby of the product handling system.

[0039] The combination of the movability of the third conveyor belt or roller mechanism in the direction transverse to the central vertical longitudinal plane, with the coupling mechanism that is configured to cause an upward movement, or a movement in a direction towards the product, of the first belt conveyor or part thereof upon a downward movement, or a movement in a direction away from the product, of the second belt conveyor or part thereof, and vice versa, additionally provides the advantage that it gives the product an extra degree of freedom around an axis defined by the transport direction independent of the shape of the product. This extra degree of freedom reduces the risk of damaging a stem of for example a pear, as will be further elucidated in the figure description. This extra rotational degree of freedom allows the product to roll towards the first and second conveyor belts even when using high friction belts and reduces the likelihood that one of the lower conveyor belts loses grip.

[0040] An embodiment combining the movable third conveyor belt or roller mechanism in the direction transverse to the central vertical longitudinal plane with the recontacting device and / or coupling mechanism that is configured to cause an upward movement, or a movement in a direction towards the product, of the first belt conveyor or part thereof upon a downward movement, or a movement in a direction away from the product, of the second belt conveyor or part thereof, and vice versa, was found to be more advantageous than the embodiments separately, as they together further improve following the product contour. Grip issues are further reduced by combining the embodiments. In an embodiment of the product handling system, the third conveyor belt or part thereof, or roller mechanism or part thereof is pivotable about a first pivot axis, wherein the first pivot axis is located on a side of the third conveyor belt or roller mechanism opposite the first and second belt conveyor, and wherein the first pivot axis extends substantially parallel to the transport direction, and / or wherein the third conveyor belt, or part thereof, or roller mechanism, or part thereof, is axially, or laterally, movable.

[0041] In an embodiment of the product handling system, the moving mechanism comprises a resilient member provided between a frame of the product handling system and the third conveyor belt or roller mechanism for providing a resilient force on the third conveyor belt or part thereof, or roller mechanism or part thereof when the third conveyor belt or roller mechanism moves away from the central vertical longitudinal plane. The resilient member assists in recentring the third conveyor belt or roller mechanism for receiving the next product.

[0042] In an embodiment the product handling system, the moving mechanism comprises a restricting member for restricting the movement of the third conveyor belt or roller mechanism in the direction transverse to the transport direction beyond a predetermined position, in particular in the direction transverse to the central vertical longitudinal plane.

[0043] In an embodiment of the product handling system, the moving mechanism comprises at least one mechanism actuator for moving the third conveyor belt or a part thereof, or roller mechanism or a part thereof towards and away from the central vertical longitudinal plane. Being able to actively move the third conveyor belt or roller mechanism allows for the positioning of the third conveyor belt or roller mechanism in a desired position before, during or after processing, in particular orienting the product.

[0044] In an embodiment the product handling system comprises a vibrating device configured to vibrate the first belt conveyor or a part thereof configured to be in contact with the product, and / or the second belt conveyor or a part thereof configured to be in contact with the product, and / or the third conveyor belt or roller mechanism or a part thereof configured to be in contact with the product.

[0045] In an embodiment of the product handling system, the at least one mechanism actuator is part of the vibrating device and configured to generate the vibrations.

[0046] In an embodiment of the product handling system, the coupling mechanism comprises a first coupling arm that is connected with a first end thereof to the first belt conveyor or part thereof, and a second coupling arm that is connected with a first end thereof to the second belt conveyor or part thereof, wherein opposite second ends of the first coupling arm and the second coupling arm are coupled to each other.

[0047] In an embodiment of the product handling system, wherein the coupling mechanism comprises a first belt support, in particular a first belt support plate, that is provided under and in contact with an endless belt of the first belt conveyor, and a second belt support, in particular a second belt support plate, that is provided under and in contact with an endless belt of the second belt conveyor, wherein the first and second belt supports are movable in a direction substantially perpendicular to their respective belt surface, wherein the first end of the first coupling arm is connected to the first belt support, and wherein the first end of the second coupling arm is connected to the second belt support. The belt support provides as an advantage that the force of the product on the respective belt conveyor is better distributed.

[0048] In an embodiment of the product handling system, the first ends of the first coupling arm and the second coupling arm each comprise a first end contact surface that is in contact with an under surface of the endless belt of the respective conveyor belt that is opposite a product support surface or with an under surface of their respective belt support, wherein the second ends of the first coupling arm and the second coupling arm each comprise a second end contact surface that abut each other, or wherein the second end of the first coupling arm and the second coupling arm are connected to each other via a connecting rod.

[0049] In an embodiment of the product handling system, first ends of the first coupling arm and second coupling arm each comprise a first end roller, wherein the first end roller comprises the first end contact surface, and wherein the second ends of the first coupling arm and second coupling arm each comprise a second end roller, wherein the second end roller comprises the second end contact surface. An advantage of the first end rollers and second end rollers is that a coupling mechanism can be provided that has a relatively low friction, or is even substantially frictionless.

[0050] In an embodiment of the product handling system, in an initial working position the second end contact surfaces of the first coupling arm and the second coupling arm abut at the central vertical longitudinal plane.

[0051] In an embodiment of the product handling system, wherein the first coupling arm is pivotable about a first arm pivot axis, and wherein the second coupling arm is pivotable about a second arm pivot axis, wherein the first arm pivot axis and second arm pivot axis extend substantially parallel to the transport direction. In an embodiment of the product handling system, the first coupling arm and second coupling arm are coupled to each other via a pivotable connecting arm, wherein the second end of the first coupling arm is connected to a first connecting end of the connecting arm, and wherein the second end of the second coupling arm is connected to an opposite connecting end of the connecting arm, wherein the connecting arm is pivotable about a pivot axis located between the first connecting end and the second connecting end, in particular in the middle thereof.

[0052] In an embodiment of the product handling system, the product conveyor device comprises an entry where a product is received by the product conveyor device, and an exit via which the product leaves the product conveyor device, wherein the control unit is configured for controlling at least the first and second belt conveyor, and the third conveyor belt or roller mechanism for conveying the product to the exit.

[0053] In an embodiment of the product handling system the third conveyor belt is part of an upper conveyor belt assembly comprising: o an entry lower pulley positioned at the entry of the product conveyor device, o an exit lower pulley positioned at an exit of the product conveyor device, o at least one driven pulley, wherein the entry lower pulley is a driven pulley and / or wherein the exit lower pulley is a driven pulley and / or wherein the driven pulley is a separate driven pulley, o the upper third conveyor belt which extends at least around the entry lower pulley and the exit lower pulley, and wherein a lower section of the third conveyor belt extends between the entry pulley and the exit pulley, wherein the upper conveyor belt assembly comprises an entry suspension mechanism and an exit suspension mechanism, wherein the entry suspension mechanism is connected to the frame and to a respective entry lower pulley, wherein the entry suspension mechanism supports the entry lower pulley and allows the entry lower pulley to move up and down between a lower entry position and an upper entry position, wherein the exit suspension mechanism is connected to the frame and to a respective exit lower pulley, wherein the exit suspension mechanism supports the exit lower pulley and allows the exit lower pulley to move up and down between a lower exit position and an upper exit position, wherein when a product engages a lower section of the upper third conveyor belt the upper conveyor belt assembly, the lower section of the upper belt, the lower entry pulley and the lower exit pulley are moved upwards, wherein the entry and exit suspension mechanism provide a downward pre-tension force on the lower section, causing the lower section to press downward on the product.

[0054] In an embodiment of the product handling system, the upper conveyor belt assembly comprises an intermediate pulley pressing downward on the lower section, the intermediate pulley being movable transverse to the transport direction, horizontally and / or vertically.

[0055] In an embodiment of the product handling system, wherein the intermediate pulley is axially movable independently from the lower entry and exit pulleys via a slider mechanism for allowing at least a part of the third conveyor belt to move in a direction transverse to the central vertical longitudinal plane.

[0056] In an embodiment of the product handling system, the entry lower pulley and / or the exit lower pulley and / or the intermediate pulley are independently axially movable along an axially fixed rotation shaft that extends perpendicular to the central vertical longitudinal plane, wherein the pulleys are in particular configured to slide and rotate along the rotation shaft via a plain bearing.

[0057] In an embodiment of the product handling system, the intermediate pulley is configured to be located directly above the product for orienting thereof, wherein the intermediate pulley is movable in the direction transverse to the central vertical longitudinal plane.

[0058] In an embodiment of the product handling system, the entry lower pulley and the exit lower pulley are movable up and down relative to each other via a respective entry actuator and exit actuator.

[0059] In an embodiment of the product handling system, wherein the intermediate pulley is movable up and down relative to the lower entry and exit pulleys via an intermediate pulley actuator, and / or wherein the lower exit and entry pulleys are movable up and down relative to the intermediate pulley via a respective entry lower pulley actuator and exit lower pulley actuator.

[0060] The intermediate pulley is configured to exert a substantially constant force on the product via the third conveyor belt and may allow products of different sizes to keep contact with the belt. In an embodiment of the product handling system, wherein the control unit is configured to move the intermediate pulley and the lower entry and exit pulleys relative to each other to a first, lower position and a second, upper position via the intermediate pulley actuator and / or the entry lower pulley actuator and lower pulley exit actuator, wherein in the first, lower position an underside of the intermediate pulley is located further below an underside of the lower entry pulley and lower exit pulley than in the second, upper position.

[0061] In an embodiment, when seen perpendicular to the central vertical longitudinal plane, in the first, lower position the lower section of the of the third conveyor belt has a convex shape, and wherein in the second, upper position the lower section of the third conveyor belt has a substantially straight shape or a less convex shape.

[0062] In an embodiment of the product handling system, wherein the control unit is configured for carrying out one or more of the following processing actions:

[0063] - orient the products to a target orientation by applying speed differences between the first belt conveyor, second belt conveyor and third conveyor belt or roller mechanism of a product conveyor device,

[0064] - discharge products from the product handling system, on the basis of a product property recorded with a sensor, in particular a camera, by moving the first and second belt conveyor, in particular the left and right lower belt conveyor, of one or more of the product conveyor devices away from one another, thereby creating a gap through which the product is discharged,

[0065] - grade products on the basis of one or more product parameters, such as size, colour, shape, rot or another product parameter, by: o recording images of the products with the at least one camera and / or detecting a product property with the at least one sensor, in particular while rotating the products by applying speed differences between the first belt conveyor, second belt conveyor and third conveyor belt or roller mechanism of a product conveyor device, and processing the scanned images or recorded product property with the control unit to determine whether a product complies with a first criterion or a second criterion, o moving the first and second belt conveyor, in particular the left and right lower belt conveyor, of a first product conveyor device away from one another in case the product complies with the first criterion, and o moving the first and second belt conveyor, in particular the left and right lower belt conveyor, of a second product conveyor device away from one another in case the product complies with the second criterion, - divide an incoming stream of products into two or more outgoing streams of products by moving the first and second belt conveyor, in particular the left and right lower belt conveyor, of one product conveyor device away from one another for a subset of the incoming products and discharging said products of said subset to a lower conveyor and conveying the other products of the incoming stream entirely through the product handling system.

[0066] In an embodiment the product handling system comprises multiple product conveyor devices placed in series.

[0067] In an embodiment of the product handling system, the control unit is configured to carry out one or more of the following processing actions:

[0068] - group the products into groups by applying speed differences between product conveyor devices,

[0069] - convert an incoming stream of products having a variable pitch distance into an outgoing stream of products having a more uniform pitch distance, in particular for feeding the products to a downstream conveyor or to a packaging machine such as a flowpack device, topseal device, shrink wrapping device or a thermoformer machine or to a fruit loading robot by applying speed differences between product conveyor devices,

[0070] - buffer the products by positioning multiple products close together by applying speed differences between product conveyor devices.

[0071] In an embodiment of the product handling system, the entry and the exit of the first and second belt conveyor are defined by an entry roller and an exit roller thereof, wherein the exit roller of a product conveyor device is substantially flush with an entry roller of an adjacent product conveyor device, when seen along a respective conveyor belt rotation axis, said conveyor belt rotation axis extending perpendicular to the transport direction.

[0072] In an embodiment of the product handling system, each product conveyor device is configured to rotate a product about a first and a second rotation axis extending in an YZ- plane which is oriented orthogonal to the transport direction, and in particular to transition from the first to the second rotation axis.

[0073] In an embodiment of the product handling system, the control unit is configured for orienting the products, followed by buffering the products and subsequently controlling the pitch distance between the products and / or grouping the products. In an embodiment the product handling system further comprises a labelling device and / or an optical marking device like a laser marking device positioned downstream of one or more of the product conveyor devices used for orienting.

[0074] In an embodiment the product handling system further comprises a grader positioned upstream of one or more of the product conveyor devices.

[0075] In an embodiment of the product handling system, the third conveyor belt is part of an upper conveyor belt assembly configured to engage an upper side of the product, the upper conveyor belt assembly comprising one or more upper conveyor belts placed in series, each upper conveyor belt comprising: o an entry lower pulley positioned on an arrival side of the conveyor belt system where the products arrive, o an exit lower pulley positioned at an exit side of the upper conveyor belt where the products leave the conveyor belt system, o at least one driven pulley, wherein the entry lower pulley is a driven pulley and / or wherein the exit lower pulley is a driven pulley and / or wherein the driven pulley is a separate driven pulley, o an upper belt which extends at least around the entry and exit lower pulley, wherein a lower section of the upper belt extends between the entry pulley and the exit pulley, the upper conveyor belt assembly further comprising a plurality of entry suspension mechanisms and a plurality of exit suspension mechanisms, wherein each entry suspension mechanism is connected to the frame and to a respective entry lower pulley, wherein each entry suspension mechanism supports the entry lower pulley and allows the entry lower pulley to move up and down between a lower entry position and an upper entry position, wherein each exit suspension mechanism is connected to the frame and to a respective exit lower pulley, wherein each exit suspension mechanism supports the exit lower pulley and allows the exit lower pulley to move up and down between a lower exit position and an upper exit position, wherein when a product engages a lower section of one of the upper belts of the upper conveyor belt assembly, the lower section of the upper belt, the lower entry pulley and the lower exit pulley are moved upwards, wherein the entry and exit suspension mechanism provide a downward pre-tension force on the lower section, causing the lower section to press downward on the product. In an embodiment of the product handling system, the upper conveyor belts placed in series alternately have a first configuration and a second configuration, wherein upper conveyor belts having a first configuration comprise an entry suspension mechanism and an exit suspension mechanism and wherein the upper conveyor belts having a second configuration do not comprise an own entry suspension mechanism or exit suspension mechanism but cooperate with the exit suspension mechanism and entry suspension mechanism of the upper conveyor belts positioned upstream respectively downstream from it.

[0076] In a second aspect the invention provides a method of handling products, in particular horticultural or agricultural products such as fruits and vegetables, flower bulbs and rounded food products, the method comprising conveying products with the product handling system according to the invention, and performing one or more of the following actions:

[0077] - orienting the products to a target orientation by applying speed differences between the first belt conveyor, second belt conveyor and third conveyor belt or roller mechanism,

[0078] - discharging products from the product handling system by moving the first and second belt conveyor of one or more of the product conveyor devices away from one another, thereby creating a gap through which the product is discharged,

[0079] - grading products on the basis of one or more product parameters, such as size, colour, shape, rot or another product parameter, by: o recording images of the products with the at least one camera and / or detecting a product parameter with the at least one sensor, in particular while rotating the products by applying speed differences between the first belt conveyor, second belt conveyor and third conveyor belt or roller mechanism of a product conveyor device, and processing the scanned images or recorded product parameter(s) with the control unit to determine whether a product complies with a first qualifying criterion or a second qualifying criterion, o moving the first and second belt conveyor of a first product conveyor device away from one another in case the product complies with the first qualifying criterion, and o moving the first and second lower belt conveyor of a second product conveyor device away from one another in case the product complies with the second qualifying criterion,

[0080] - dividing an incoming stream of products into two or more outgoing streams of products by moving the first and second belt conveyor of one product conveyor device away from one another for a subset of the incoming products and discharging said products of said subset to a lower conveyor and conveying the other products of the incoming stream entirely through the product handling system

[0081] In an embodiment of the method, the product handling system comprises multiple product conveyor devices placed in series, wherein the method further comprises performing one or more of the following actions:

[0082] - grouping the products into groups by applying speed differences between product conveyor devices,

[0083] - converting an incoming stream of products having a variable pitch distance into an outgoing stream of products having a more uniform pitch distance, in particular for feeding the products to a downstream conveyor or packaging machine such as a flowpack device, topseal device, shrink wrapping device or a thermoformer machine or to a fruit loading robot by applying speed differences between product conveyor devices,

[0084] - buffering the products by positioning multiple products close together by applying speed differences between product conveyor devices,

[0085] When an incoming stream of products comes from a discharge of a grader, often the incoming stream of products have a variable pitch distance. Converting such an incoming stream of products to a more uniform pitch distance is beneficial for further processing of the products.

[0086] In an embodiment of the method, each product conveyor device partially orients the product so that consecutive product conveyor devices fully orient the product in a joint operation to a target orientation, or wherein each product conveyor device fully orients the product to a target orientation, and wherein in both situations a plurality of orienting devices simultaneously orient a plurality of products.

[0087] In an embodiment the method further comprises labelling or laser marking the product after the product is oriented to the target orientation.

[0088] A problem associated with labelling of products is that labels tend to fall from the products every now and then. These labels then tend to stick to the driving components of conventional orienting devices. Because in conventional orienting machines the orienting device is either stationary or part of a chain in which rollers in the chain orientate , the labels will eventually reach the orienting device. Over time, these labels accumulate on the driving parts of the conventional orienting devices. The labels may cause a malfunction of the orienting device because they tend to have the same colours as the products, which disturbs the background colour of the vision systems and prevents the cameras from properly distinguishing the product. This is one of the reasons why labelling is often carried out manually. The product handling system is configured for orienting the products with the one or more product conveyor devices which are positioned upstream of the labelling device and subsequently labelling the products. The labelling device is positioned along a conveyor device which is downstream and separate from the conveyor devices which are used for orienting. In this way, labels which fall off the products and get stuck to the conveyor device along which the labelling device is positioned, cannot reach the orienting device and distort the background colour of the orienting device which the cameras of the orienting device need to function properly.

[0089] These and other aspects of the invention will be more readily appreciated as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description and considered in connection with the accompanying drawings in which like reference symbols designate like parts.

[0090] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0091] Figure 1A schematically shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a product handling system according to the invention.

[0092] Figure 1 B schematically shows a perspective view an embodiment of a roller mechanism with an embodiment of a moving mechanism as shown in figure 1A.

[0093] Figure 1C schematically shows a perspective view of part of the roller mechanism of figure 1B from the other side.

[0094] Figure 2A schematically shows a cross-sectional front view of an embodiment of a product handling system according to the invention with an irregular product.

[0095] Figure 2B schematically shows the product handling system of figure 2A, but wherein parts of a first, lower left conveyor belt and a second, right lower belt conveyor are in a different position.

[0096] Figures 20 and 2D schematically show the product handling system as shown in figures 2A and 2B.

[0097] Figure 3A schematically shows a cross-sectional front view of an embodiment of a product handling system according to the invention.

[0098] Figure 3B schematically shows the product handling system of figure 3A, but wherein a roller mechanism is in a different position relative to a transport direction, in particular relative to a central vertical longitudinal plane. Figure 4A schematically shows a cross-sectional front view of an embodiment of the product handling system according to the invention,

[0099] Figure 4B schematically shows the product handling system of figure 4B, wherein both a first, lower left conveyor belt and a second, right lower belt conveyor are in a different position and wherein a roller mechanism is in a different position relative to a transport direction, in particular relative to a central vertical longitudinal plane.

[0100] Figures 5A-5F schematically show different views of parts of an embodiment of a coupling mechanism for coupling the movements of belt support plates of the first, lower belt conveyor and the second, right conveyor belt to each other.

[0101] Figures 6A and 6B schematically show another embodiment of a coupling mechanism for coupling the movements of parts of the first, lower belt conveyor and parts of the second, right conveyor belt to each other.

[0102] Figures 6C and 6D schematically show another embodiment of a coupling mechanism being part of a recontacting device.

[0103] Figure 7A schematically shows in perspective view an embodiment of the product handling system according to the invention comprising a third conveyor belt, in particular comprising an upper conveyor belt assembly, wherein a plurality of upper belts are continuous and substantially straight.

[0104] Figures 7B schematically shows in perspective the upper conveyor belt assembly as shown in figure 7A.

[0105] Figure 7C schematically shows a pivotable assembly of a part of the upper conveyor belt assembly of Figure 7B and above parts of an entry suspension mechanism and an exit suspension mechanism.

[0106] Figure 8A schematically shows an embodiment of a product handling system with an upper belt conveyor assembly in a first, lower position,

[0107] Figures 8B schematically shows an embodiment of an independently and axially movable intermediate pulley that is used in figure 8A.

[0108] Figure 8C schematically shows an embodiment of a pivotable pulley assembly.

[0109] Figure 8D schematically shows the product handling system of figure 8A, wherein the upper belt conveyor assembly is in a second, upper position.

[0110] Figure 8E shows a rear perspective view of an embodiment of an upper conveyor belt assembly in the first, lower position.

[0111] Figure 9 schematically shows in perspective view an embodiment of a product handling system according to the invention performing different actions.

[0112] Figure 10 schematically shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a product handling system according to the invention comprising additional devices, e.g. a labelling device, a product placing device and a packaging device. Figure 11 A and 11 B schematically show a perspective view and a cross-section front view of an embodiment of a product conveyor device configured to discharge a product.

[0113] Figure 12 schematically shows an embodiment of a product handling system, wherein a labelling device or laser marking system is positioned downstream a product conveyor device.

[0114] Figures 13A-C schematically show an embodiment of an upper belt assembly, wherein the driven pulley is an entry or exit lower pulley.

[0115] Figure 14 schematically shows an embodiment of a product handling system comprising a plurality of product conveyor devices placed both in series and in parallel and a grader.

[0116] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0117] Turning to figures 1A, 2-4, 7A, 8-12 different embodiments of a product handling system 1 according to the invention are shown. The product handling system 1 comprises a frame 3 and at least one product conveyor device 2 configured for conveying and / or orienting products 330, in particular horticultural or agricultural products such as fruits and vegetables, flower bulbs and rounded food products. In figures 1A, 4A, 4B, 8,11,12 the shown products are pears. In figure 7A the products are apples. In figure 9 the products are bell peppers.

[0118] In several of the embodiments shown the product handling system 1 comprises multiple product conveyor devices 2 placed in series. It is also possible to have multiple conveyor devices 2 placed in parallel, or both in series and parallel as for example shown in figure 14. It is also possible to have a product handling system 1 comprising a single product conveyor device 2, see for example figure 12.

[0119] The product conveyor device comprises a first belt conveyor 20A comprising a first drive 21 A and a second belt conveyor 20B comprising a second drive 21 B. In the shown embodiments the first belt conveyor is a left lower belt conveyor 20A comprising a left drive 21A, and the second belt conveyor 20B is a right lower belt conveyor comprising a right drive 21 B. The first and second belt conveyors extend substantially horizontally for transporting the products substantially horizontally.

[0120] The left and right lower belt conveyor 20A, 20B diverge from one another in an upward direction, and in particular have a V-formation. An angle a of the V may for example be 60- 130 degrees, in particular 90-120 degrees, see figure 2C. The product conveyor device comprises at least a third conveyor belt 20C or roller mechanism 20D comprising a third drive 21 C. The embodiments shown in figures 1 to 4 comprise the roller mechanism whereas the embodiments shown in figures 7 to 12 comprise the at least third conveyor belt. In the shown embodiments the third conveyor belt is an upper conveyor belt 20C comprising an upper drive 21 C, 659 and configured to contact an upper side of the product. The roller mechanism 20D is also configured to contact an upper side of the product.

[0121] The first 20A and second 20B belt conveyor, and third conveyor belt 20C or roller mechanism 20D of each product conveyor device extend over a horizontal distance in a transport direction T and are configured to convey products over a horizontal distance in the transport direction. A central vertical longitudinal plane 45 is defined by the first and second belt conveyor, and the third conveyor belt 20C or roller mechanism 20D.

[0122] The first 20A and second 20B belt conveyor comprise a flat endless belt 243. The first 20A and second 20B belt conveyor may also, or instead, each comprise a plurality of parallel belts that are located adjacent to each other. The parallel belts may have for example a circular or square cross-section. The third conveyor belt 20C can for example be a round belt, a V belt with a rounded shape on the contact side, or a V belt or a belt which is narrower than the flat endless belt 243 of 20A or 20B.

[0123] The first 20A and second 20B belt conveyor, and the third conveyor belt 20C or roller mechanism 20D provide a product space 24 between them, and are configured to support the products 330 on at least three sides thereof. In the shown embodiments the left 20A and right lower belt conveyor 20B, and the upper conveyor belt 20C or roller mechanism 20D provide the product space 24 between them, wherein the left 20A and right lower belt 20B conveyor and the upper conveyor 20C belt or roller mechanism 20D are configured to support the products on at least three sides thereof.

[0124] The first 20A and second belt conveyor 20B, and third conveyor belt 20C or roller mechanism 20D may be configured to exert a pressure on the product. This provides as an advantage of that greater linear accelerations and orienting accelerations are possible on the products, resulting in a higher throughput. When the third conveyor belt 20C or the roller mechanism 20D exerts a downward force on the product, this force is transferred to the first 20A and second belt conveyor 20B. The product is therefore gripped stronger and as a result a higher friction force can be exerted on the product. The product handling 1 system further comprises at least one sensor, in particular at least one camera 25, configured for recording data, in particular images, of a product which is conveyed by the product handling system 1. The product handling system 1 may comprise multiple sensors, or cameras 25 per product conveyor device. In figure 1A three cameras are provided, a right camera 25R, a centre camera 25C and a left camera 25L. The viewing direction of the cameras can be perpendicular to and / or in the direction of the transport direction.

[0125] The product handling system comprises a control unit 100 configured for processing the recorded data and controlling the first drive 21 A, second drive 21 B and third drive 21C on the basis of the processed data.

[0126] Each product conveyor device 2 has an entry 16 where a product 330 is received by the product conveyor device 2, and an exit 18 via which the product 330 leaves the product conveyor device. The exit 18 is opposite to and separate from the entry 16. The control unit 100 is configured for controlling at least the first 20A and second belt conveyor 20B, and the third conveyor belt 20C or roller mechanism 20D for conveying the product over a horizontal distance to the exit 18.

[0127] The control unit 100 may be configured for carrying out a variety of actions. For a product handling system 1 comprising one or more product conveyor devices 2 the control unit 100 may carry out one or more of the following processing actions:

[0128] - orient the products to a target orientation 715 by applying speed differences between the first belt conveyor 20A, second belt conveyor 20B and third conveyor belt 20C or roller mechanism 20D of a product conveyor device 2, see for example figures 1, 7A, 8A, 9, 11A, 12 and 13,

[0129] - discharge products from the product handling system 1, on the basis of a product property recorded with a sensor, in particular a camera 25R, 25C, 25L, by moving the first 20A and second belt 20B conveyor, in particular the left and right lower belt conveyor, of one or more of the product conveyor devices 2 away from one another, thereby creating a gap 1016 through which the product 330 is discharged, see for example figure 11,

[0130] - grade products on the basis of one or more product parameters, such as size, colour, shape, rot or another product parameter, by: o recording images of the products with the at least one camera and / or detecting a product property with the at least one sensor, in particular while rotating the products by applying speed differences between the first belt conveyor, second belt conveyor and third conveyor belt or roller mechanism of a product conveyor device, and processing the scanned images or recorded product property with the control unit to determine whether a product complies with a first criterion or a second criterion, wherein during recording images the product may be rotated by the first belt conveyor, the second belt conveyor, and the third conveyor belt or roller mechanism, o moving the first and second belt conveyor, in particular the left and right lower belt conveyor, of a first product conveyor device away from one another in case the product complies with the first criterion, and o moving the first and second belt conveyor, in particular the left and right lower belt conveyor, of a second product conveyor device away from one another in case the product complies with the second criterion,

[0131] - divide an incoming stream of products into two or more outgoing streams of products by moving the first and second belt conveyor, in particular the left and right lower belt conveyor, of one product conveyor device away from one another for a subset of the incoming products and discharging said products of said subset to a lower conveyor and conveying the other products of the incoming stream entirely through the product handling system.

[0132] Discharging of a product is shown in an embodiment of figures 11 A and 11 B, wherein the first belt conveyor 20A and the second belt conveyor 20B are moved away from each other. Here the movement of the first and second belt conveyors is achieved by side actuators 52 which extend in order to pivot said conveyor belts 20A, 20B to the position as shown in figure 11B. The product 330 falls through the thereby created gap 1016. If a product has rotten spots or other defects during orienting, rolling and scanning, the rejected product 269 can be discharged to belt 85A.

[0133] When the product handling system 1 comprises a plurality of product conveyor 2 device places in series the control unit 100 may further be configured to carry out one or more of the following processing actions:

[0134] - group the products into groups 717 by applying speed differences between product conveyor devices 2, see for example figure 9 between arrows 697,

[0135] - convert an incoming stream of products 330 having a variable pitch distance into an outgoing stream of products having a more uniform pitch distance, in particular for feeding the products to a downstream conveyor or to packaging machine such as a flowpack device, topseal device, shrink wrapping device or a thermoformer machine or to a fruit loading robot by applying speed differences between product conveyor devices 2,

[0136] - buffer the products 330 by positioning multiple products close together by applying speed differences between product conveyor devices 2, see for example figure 9 between arrows 696.

[0137] When more product conveyor devices 2 are placed in series, each product conveyor device 2 may be configured to partially orient the product 330 so that consecutive product conveyor devices 2 fully orient the product in a joint operation to a target orientation. It may also be possible to have each product conveyor device fully orient the product to a target orientation 715. In both situations a plurality of orienting devices are able to simultaneously orient a plurality of products.

[0138] In fig 7A, the five upper, third conveyor belts 20C are continuous. This makes it possible for products to be oriented wherein each orientation device partially orients and whereby a subsequent orientation device starts to orient where the previous one left off. This has the advantage that the products can move through the orientation belts continuously and in particular at a constant speed, while the orienting is carried out gradually and in a smooth motion by the various orientation units. This results in a higher capacity of orienting. Because there is no acceleration of the product at a constant line speed, all of the available grip can be used for orienting and this can be done faster than in a start-stop mode.

[0139] A start-stop mode is defined as having one or more products arrive each at its own product conveyor device, then stopping the forward motion, followed by performing the orientation for all products at once. When the orientation is complete, the forward motion is restarted and the oriented products are transported downstream. This is slower than partial orientation and causes an intermittent flow of products. Both methods are possible and can be set in the software of the orientation / grouping machine.

[0140] The product handling system may comprise a labelling device or laser marking device 260 for labelling the products 330 or laser marking the products. In figures 10 and 12 the labelling or laser marking device is shown downstream a product conveyor device 2, in particular directly downstream. A method of handling products may therefore comprise labelling the product after the product 330 is oriented to the target orientation. The labelling device 260 can either be a label unit for placing a label or a laser unit for marking horticultural, food and / or fruit products. In figure 12 the product handling system 1 further comprises a supply belt 740 for unoriented products and a discharge belt 741 for oriented, labelled and / or laser marked products. During carrying out one or more of the various processing actions, it may be desired that the product 330 maintains in contact with the product conveyor 2 on all three sides. This is in particular desired during orienting of the products.

[0141] As shown in the exemplary embodiment of figures 6C and 6D, wherein the third conveyor belt or roller mechanism is present but not shown, the product handling system may comprise a recontacting device 80 configured to move the first belt conveyor 20A, or a part thereof configured to be in contact with the product, and / or the second belt conveyor, or a part thereof configured to be in contact with the product, in a direction towards the product when one of the first belt conveyor and the second belt conveyor loses contact with the product.

[0142] The recontacting device 80 may comprise at least one sensor 82 for sensing that the product contacts or not contacts the belt of the first belt conveyor or the belt of second belt conveyor. The recontacting device 80 may comprise at least one actuator 81 configured to move the first belt conveyor or part thereof and / or the second belt conveyor or part thereof in a recontacting direction towards the product. The recontacting direction may be a horizontal direction, a vertical direction or a combination of a horizontal and vertical direction, for example a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the support surface of the respective belt conveyor. The at least one sensor 82 and at least one actuator 81 are operatively coupled to a control unit, wherein the control unit controls the at least one actuator based on data received from the at least one sensor.

[0143] Figures 2A-2D schematically show an embodiment of a product conveyor device 2, wherein the first belt conveyor 20A, in particular the left lower belt conveyor, or part thereof is coupled to the second belt conveyor 20B, in particular the right lower belt conveyor, or part thereof, via a coupling mechanism 26. The coupling mechanism 26 is configured to cause an upward movement of the first belt conveyor 20A or part thereof upon a downward movement of the second belt conveyor 20B or part thereof, and vice versa. The coupling mechanism 26 is in particular configured to cause a movement of the second belt conveyor 20B in the direction towards the product upon a movement of the first belt conveyor 20A in the direction away from the product, and vice versa. The coupling mechanism here functions as the recontacting device 80, and is therefore considered part of the recontacting device.

[0144] In figure 2A and 2C a product 330 is shown that has lost contact with the second belt 20B conveyor. For figure 2A this is due to an irregular shape of the product, namely a flat side. For figure 2C this is due to the product having shifted up the first belt conveyor 20A, here due to clamping of the product between the roller mechanism and the first belt conveyor 20A caused by the orienting forces. Such shifting upwards can for example be caused by having an endless belt 243 with a relatively high friction coefficient on the first belt conveyor 20A and the second belt conveyor 20B. A relatively high friction coefficient has as an advantage that the product can be better gripped and thereby controlled, but the disadvantage of having the products more often shift up the lower belt conveyors 20A, 20B thereby losing grip with the other lower belt conveyor 20A, 20B.

[0145] Figures 2B and 2D show that the endless belt 243B of second belt conveyor 20B has moved upwards due to a downward movement of the endless belt 243A of the first belt conveyor 20A. The downward movement of part of the first belt conveyor 20A is a result of the pressure that is exerted thereon by the product 330 via the roller mechanism 20D. In case a third conveyor belt 20C is provided instead of the roller mechanism 20D, the third conveyor belt exerts the pressure on the product. As a result of the relative vertical movement between the endless belts 243A, 243B of the first 20A and second 20B belt conveyor the product comes in contact again on all three sides. This is done with the grip force being distributed substantially evenly allowing the same rotation acceleration in all direction. This provides a reliable and fast performance.

[0146] Figures 3A and 3B schematically show an embodiment of a product conveyor device 2, wherein the third conveyor belt 20C or a part thereof configured to be in contact with the product, or the roller mechanism 20D or a part thereof configured to be in contact with the product, here the roller mechanism, is movable in a direction transverse to the transport direction T via a moving mechanism 10. In figures 3A, 3B the moving mechanism 10 allows for a movement of the roller mechanism in a direction transverse to the central vertical longitudinal plane 45, or left to right in the view of figures 3A, 3B. Said movement can be achieved via for example a pivoting motion or a translating, or axial motion. Such a translating, axial motion is shown for example for an intermediate pulley 686 on assembly 275 in figures 8A, 8B and 8E. In the embodiment as shown in figures 3A and 3B the transverse movement of the roller mechanism 20D is done via a pivoting motion with the assembly 290 as shown in figures 1C. Instead of the roller mechanism the third conveyor belt 20C can be provided. A pivoting motion can then for example be achieved via assembly 274 as shown in figure 7C.

[0147] Although not shown in the embodiments, the third conveyor belt 20C and roller mechanism 20D may be temporarily and shortly lifted. This way the roller mechanism 20D or third conveyor belt 20C is moved transverse to the transport direction in a vertical sense. After lifting the third conveyor belt 20C or roller mechanism 20D and losing contact with the product 330 the product will centre again and gets in contact again with both lower belt conveyors 20A and 20B. As shortly thereafter as possible the third conveyor belt 20C or roller mechanism 20D is lowered again for contacting the product. Although this operation could be performed in several tens of a second, it can cause performance loss especially for more irregular shaped products like pears. Another disadvantage of this method is that if the lifting of the third conveyor belt or roller mechanism takes too long, reorientation of the product can occur which may results in restarting the orientation, thereby losing time.

[0148] It is preferred to move the third conveyor belt 20C, or part thereof, or roller mechanism 20D, or part thereof, in a direction transverse to the central vertical longitudinal plane 45, i.e. transverse to the transport direction in a horizontal sense. This is shown in figure 3B, wherein the roller mechanism has moved in from an initial position figure 3A to the position shown in figure 3B, wherein the product 330 is supported again at all three sides by the product conveyor device 2. The roller mechanism 20D, or third conveyor belt 20C if used, is able to follow the movements of the product during processing thereof, in particular during orienting.

[0149] A resilient member 71, 286, 732 is provided between a frame 3 of the product handling system 1 and the third conveyor belt 20C, or part thereof, or roller mechanism 20D, or part thereof, for providing a resilient force on the third conveyor belt 20C or roller mechanism 20D when the third conveyor belt 20C or roller mechanism 20D moves away from the central vertical longitudinal plane. The resilient member may for example be in the form of one or more springs or pneumatic cylinders.

[0150] A restricting member 72 may be provided for restricting the movement of the third conveyor belt 20C or roller mechanism 20D in the direction transverse to the transport direction beyond a predetermined position. It may also be possible to combine the resilient member 71 with the restricting member 72, for example in the form of a pneumatic cylinder, wherein the pneumatic cylinder has a maximum or minimum extension.

[0151] A mechanism actuator 270 may be provided between a frame 3 of the product handling system 1 and the third conveyor belt 20C, or part thereof, or roller mechanism 20D, or part thereof, for moving the third conveyor belt 20C or roller mechanism 20D towards and away from the central vertical longitudinal plane. This can be done in both directions. Figure 4B shows an advantageous embodiment of the moving mechanism, wherein the movement of the roller mechanism 20D lifts the stem of a pear from the second conveyor belt 20B over a distance D106 to avoid damage to the stem and thereby to the pear. Here the upper belt or upper roller mechanism is laterally movable and a recontacting device 80 is provided, resulting in an additional degree of freedom around an axis parallel to the transport direction which avoids damage to the stem while orienting. This additional degree of freedom is also achieved in the embodiments shown in figures 6A-D when combined with the third conveyor belt or roller mechanism being movable transverse to the central longitudinal vertical plane.

[0152] In the embodiments as shown in figures 3 and 4 the pneumatic cylinder 270, 71, 72 can be configured as the mechanism actuator 270 for moving the third conveyor belt 20C or roller mechanism 20D towards and away from the central vertical longitudinal plane. The pneumatic cylinder can also be configured as resilient member 71 as well as restricting member 72, especially when more pneumatic cylinders are mounted in a serial way.

[0153] The product handling may comprise a vibrating device 84 configured to vibrate the first belt conveyor or a part thereof configured to be in contact with the product, and / or the second belt conveyor or a part thereof configured to be in contact with the product, and / or the third conveyor belt or roller mechanism or a part thereof configured to be in contact with the product. The vibrating device comprises vibrating members, for example in the form of the at least one mechanism actuator 270. The first and / or second conveyor belt are vibrated with the vibrating members. The vibrating members advantageously improve the orienting process.

[0154] The embodiments of figures 2 and 3 may also be combined resulting in an advantageous embodiment as shown in figures 4A and 4B. In figure 4B the roller mechanism 20D is movable in a direction transverse to the central vertical longitudinal plane and the first 20A and second belt conveyors 20B are coupled via the coupling mechanism 26 for causing an upward movement of the first belt conveyor or part thereof upon a downward movement of the second belt conveyor or part thereof, and vice versa. This embodiment provides an additional advantage of giving the product an extra degree of freedom around an axis 5 parallel to the transport direction, thereby improving the contact between the product and the lower conveyor belts and the upper, third conveyor belt or roller mechanism. When a pear- shaped product with stem is rolled in a 90-degree position, as shown in figures 4A and 4B, wherein a product main axis direction is perpendicular to the transport direction in order to orient the stem, this extra degree of freedom reduces the risk of damaging the stem. Further, the coupled movement of the lower conveyor belts together with the transverse movement relative to the vertical plane of the upper, third conveyor belt or roller mechanism improves the acceleration and reliability of the contact grip. The stalk of product 330 in figures 4A and 4B can move between D105 and D106 with almost no force because of the additional degree of freedom around an axis 5 parallel to the transport direction T. This additional degree of freedom also reduces the likelihood of the product shifting upwards thereby losing contact with the first and second belt conveyors. Because of the additional degree of freedom the product is able to roll down which usually would only be possible by using a low friction belt on the first and second belt conveyor. It is preferred to use a belt with a relatively high friction coefficient for improved performance both for orienting and grouping.

[0155] In order to move in the direction transverse to the central vertical longitudinal plane, the third conveyor belt 20C, or a part thereof configured to be in contact with the product, or roller mechanism 20D, or part thereof configured to be in contact with the product, may be pivotable about a first pivot axis 271. For the third conveyor belt such an embodiment is shown in more detail in figures 7A-7C. For the roller mechanism such an embodiment is shown in figures 3B and 4B, and in more detail in figures 1A-1C. The first pivot axis 271 is located on a side of the third conveyor belt 20C or roller mechanism 20D opposite the first 20A and second belt conveyor 20B. The first pivot axis 271 extends substantially parallel to the transport direction T.

[0156] Turning to figures 2B, 2D, 3, 4, 5A-5F and 6A-D , exemplary embodiments of the coupling mechanism are schematically shown. The coupling mechanism 26 comprises a first coupling arm 233 that is connected with a first end thereof to the first belt conveyor 20A or part thereof, and a second coupling arm 33 that is connected with a first end thereof to the second belt conveyor 20B or part thereof. Opposite second ends 35 of the first coupling arm and the second coupling arm are coupled to each other.

[0157] The coupling mechanism 26 comprises a first belt support 232, in particular a first belt support plate, that is provided under and in contact with the endless belt 243A of the first belt conveyor 20A and a second belt support, in particular a second belt support plate 232B, that is provided under and in contact with the endless belt 243B of the second belt conveyor 20B. The first and second belt supports 232A, 232B are movable, e.g. pivotable, in a direction substantially perpendicular to their respective belt surface 243A 243B. In the embodiment as shown in figure 5 the belt support plate pivots about a plate pivot axis 40 defined by bolts 236 that do not fix the first belt support 232 but have a loose fit. The first end of the first coupling arm is connected to the first belt support 232. The first end of the second coupling arm is connected to the second belt support. In the embodiment as shown in figures 2B, 2D, 4 and 5A-5F the first ends of the first coupling arm and the second coupling arm each comprise a first end contact surface that is in contact with an under surface of the endless belt 243A, 243B of the respective conveyor belt that is opposite a product support surface or with an under surface of their respective belt support. The second ends of the first coupling arm and the second coupling arm each comprise a second end contact surface 38 that abut each other. It is also possible to connect the second ends to each other, for example via a connecting rod. An advantage of the abutment embodiment is that it is easier to move the first and second conveyor belt to a discharge position for discharging the product. Also it is easier to remove the belt itself, for example for maintenance.

[0158] The first ends of the first coupling arm 233 and second coupling arm 33 each comprise a first end roller 235, wherein the first end roller 235 comprises the first end contact surface 37. The second ends 35 of the first coupling arm 233 and second coupling arm 33 each comprise a second end roller 234. The second end roller 234 comprises the second end contact surface 38, see figure 5F.

[0159] In an initial working position, which is usually the position before the product arrives, as shown in for example 2A and 2C, the second end contact surfaces of the first coupling arm and the second coupling arm abut at the central vertical longitudinal plane 45.

[0160] An additional advantage of having the first 233 and second coupling arm 33 abut each other is shown in figure 11 B. The first 20A and second belt conveyors 20B can be moved away from each other without hinderance of the coupling mechanism 26, for example for discharging the product. A further advantage of the coupling mechanism 26 is that in the pivoted position of 11 B the endless belts 243 can be slid on / off the respective belt conveyor, for example for maintenance or replacement.

[0161] The first coupling arm 233 is pivotable about a first arm pivot axis 40. The second coupling arm 33 is pivotable about a second arm pivot axis.

[0162] The coupling mechanism is symmetrical when seen in cross-section, and with respect to the central longitudinal vertical plane 45.

[0163] Figure 5A shows two first belt conveyors 20A that are placed in series. A product entry and exit are defined by an entry roller 238A and an exit roller 238B thereof. The exit roller 238B of a product conveyor device 2 is substantially flush with an entry roller 238A of an adjacent product conveyor device 2, when seen along a conveyor belt rotation axis 47, the conveyor belt rotation axis extending perpendicular to the transport direction T. This allows the product to be transported along adjacent product conveyor devices 2 while reducing the risk of damaging the products. Having the belt support, in particular the belt support plate 232, located between and away from the entry roller and exit roller reduces the impact of the coupling mechanism 26 with different heights of the belt support plates 232 on the conveying of the products along adjacent product conveyor devices. A constant tension of the belt 243 can be provided by a pivotable belt tensioner 239 which creates a constant belt tension via a spring plate 240 that is connected to belt roller 241.

[0164] Figures 6A and 6B schematically show a simplified embodiment of the coupling mechanism between the first belt conveyor and the second belt conveyor, wherein the first coupling arm 233 and second coupling arm 33 are coupled to each other via a pivotable connecting arm 231. The second end 35 of the first coupling arm 233 is connected to a first connecting end 41 of the connecting arm. The second end 35 of the second coupling arm 33 is connected to an opposite connecting end 42 of the connecting arm 231. The connecting arm 231 is pivotable about a pivot axis 43 located between the first connecting 41 end and the second connecting end 42, in particular in the middle thereof.

[0165] The control unit 100 may be configured for orienting the products, followed by buffering the products and subsequently controlling the pitch distance between the products and / or grouping the products. This is for example shown in the embodiment of figure 9. A product handling system 1 for bell peppers is therein shown with orienting, buffering, grouping and pitching. The product handling system comprises an entry 16 and an exit 18. The products arrive at a random orientation and pitch. In the area between arrows 695, orientation is performed. In the area between arrows 696, buffering takes place. Buffering is important to keep the downstream packaging machine running at a constant speed without starts and stops when the feed rate varies. A packaging machine 699 such as a flow packer works best at a constant speed so that the output is higher. In the area between the arrows 697 the products are grouped and the groups are then synchronized with the correct pitch of the pusher member chain of a packaging machine so that the group of three products are at the same distance from each other as the distance between two pusher members 698. In this case three products are packed but it could also be one or two or more products.

[0166] One or more product conveyor devices 2 may be configured to rotate a product about a first and a second rotation axis extending in an YZ-plane which is oriented orthogonal to the transport direction X,T, and in particular to transition from the first to the second rotation axis. Turning to the embodiments as shown in figures 7 to 9 and 11 to 13, wherein the third conveyor belt is part of an upper conveyor belt assembly 707, 707A configured to engage an upper side of the product. The upper conveyor belt assembly shown in figures 7 to 9 and 11 and 13 comprises a plurality of upper, third conveyor belts 20C placed in series. The upper conveyor belt assembly 707A as shown in figure 12 comprise a single upper, third conveyor belt 20C.

[0167] Each upper conveyor belt comprises at least one driven pulley 659. An entry lower pulley 653A is positioned on an arrival side of the conveyor belt system where the products arrive. An exit lower pulley 653B positioned at an exit side of the upper conveyor belt where the products leave the conveyor belt system. An upper belt 709 extends at least around the entry and exit lower pulley, wherein a lower section 656 of the upper belt extends between the entry pulley and the exit pulley. In an embodiment wherein the driven pulley 659 is a separate pulley, the upper belt 709 may extend at least around the driven pulley, the entry and exit lower pulley, wherein a lower section 656 of the upper belt extends between the entry pulley and the exit pulley.

[0168] In the embodiments shown in figures 7 to 9, 11 and 12 the at least one driven pulley 659 is a separate pulley, i.e. separate from the entry and exit lower pulleys. In the embodiment shown in figure 13 the at least one driven pulley 659 is the entry or exit lower pulley. The driven pulley is driven by a driving device, such as for example an electromotor. The driven pulley subsequently lets the other pulleys that are not driven by a driving device rotate via the third conveyor belt or upper belt. When multiple product conveyor devices are placed in series, the exit pulley of one upper conveyor belt assembly may be coaxial with the entry pulley of an adjacent downstream upper belt assembly. One of the coaxial pulley may be a driven pulley, wherein the other pulley may be a freely rotating pulley.

[0169] The upper conveyor belt assembly further comprises an entry suspension mechanism 712 and an exit suspension mechanism 713. Each entry suspension mechanism 712 is connected to the frame and to a respective entry lower pulley 653A. Each entry suspension mechanism supports the entry lower pulley and allows the entry lower pulley to move up and down between a lower entry position and an upper entry position. Each exit suspension mechanism 713 is connected to the frame and to a respective exit lower pulley 653B. Each exit suspension mechanism supports the exit lower pulley and allows the exit lower pulley to move up and down between a lower exit position and an upper exit position. When a product engages a lower section of one of the upper belts of the upper conveyor belt assembly, the lower section 656 of the upper belt, the lower entry pulley 653A and the lower exit pulley 653B are moved upwards. The entry and exit suspension mechanism provide a downward pre-tension force on the lower section, causing the lower section to press downward on the product.

[0170] The upper conveyor belts placed in series alternately have a first configuration and a second configuration. Upper conveyor belts having a first configuration comprise an entry suspension mechanism 712 and an exit suspension mechanism 713. The upper conveyor belts having a second configuration do not comprise an own entry suspension mechanism or exit suspension mechanism but cooperate with the exit suspension mechanism and entry suspension mechanism of the upper conveyor belts positioned upstream respectively downstream from it.

[0171] Turning to figures 8, 11 and 12, the upper conveyor belt assembly may comprise an intermediate pulley 686 pressing downward on the lower section 656. The intermediate pulley 686 is movable transverse to the transport direction, either together with or relative to the entry and exit lower pulleys 653A, 653B, and passively and / or actively via for example mechanism actuator 270. The intermediate pulley 686 has a larger diameter than the exit and entry lower pulleys and is in particular suitable for orienting irregular elongated products. The intermediate pulley 686 may instead have an equal or smaller diameter than the exit and entry lower pulleys.

[0172] The intermediate pulley 686 may be movable horizontally and / or vertically.

[0173] The third, upper conveyor belt 20C may be pivoted individually about pivot axis 271 by a pivotable assembly 274 as shown in for example figures 7C, 8C. A mechanism actuator 270 may be provided between the frame of the product handling system 1 and a rod 276 of the pivotable assembly 274 for moving the third conveyor belt 20C towards and away from the central vertical longitudinal plane, for example for lifting the steam of the pear as shown from figures 4A to 4B, wherein D106>D105.

[0174] Figure 8B shows another moving mechanism 10, here a slider mechanism 10B, via which the intermediate pulley 686B is independently movable transverse to the central vertical longitudinal plane, in particular axially, for allowing at least a part of the third conveyor belt 20C to move in a direction transverse to the central vertical longitudinal plane. In figure 8A the intermediate pulleys 686A, 686B are part of either the assembly 275 as shown in figure 8B, or the pivoting assembly 274 as shown in figure 8C. In figure 8E all intermediate pulleys 686 are part of an individual assembly 275 as shown in figure 8B.

[0175] The intermediate pulley 686B is axially movable via the slider mechanism 10B comprising a linear guide 731 . Restricting members 730 may be provided to limit the axial movement of the intermediate pulley 686B. A resilient member 71 in the form of a spring 732 may be provided to bias the intermediate pulley 686B to an initial working position. Pulley assembly 275 is used in the embodiment of figure 8A for intermediate pulleys 686B.

[0176] It is noted that a slider mechanism 10B, such as the one as shown for the intermediate pulley 686B in figure 8B is also applicable for a roller mechanism 20D as shown in figure 1 for example. A slider mechanism 10B may also be combined with a pivoting mechanism 10A as shown for example in figure 1 B. An axially movable slider mechanism 10B may as well be applicable to the lower entry and exit pulleys 653A, 653B in figures 7C, 8A.

[0177] Although not shown in the figures, a simple embodiment may be provided by allowing the entry lower pulley 653A and / or the exit lower pulley 653B and / or the intermediate pulley 686 to independently move along an axially fixed rotation shaft that extends perpendicular to the central vertical longitudinal plane. For example via a sliding movement along the rotation shaft via a plain bearing. The pulleys are then supported on the rotation shaft via respective plain bearings and can rotate about the rotation shaft for rotating the third conveyor belt 20C. This way the movement of the third conveyor belt 20C transverse to the central vertical longitudinal plane can be achieved. In this case there is for example no separate linear guide 731. With this embodiment the relatively complex pivoting assembly 274 as shown in figures 7C, 8C can also be omitted. In this embodiment the rollers that support the lower section 656 of the upperbelt 20C are independently movable. In this embodiment the pivoting arms 275, 712, 713 are directly mounted on frame 3 without part 273 like shown in figure 8C. A disadvantage of this embodiment may be that it could adapt less fast to changes in product shape and / or size.

[0178] The intermediate pulley 686 is movable up and down relative to the lower entry and exit pulleys 653A, 653B via an intermediate pulley actuator 668C,668D. Instead, or in addition, the lower exit and entry pulleys are movable up and down relative to the intermediate pulley via a respective entry actuator 668A and exit actuator 668B.

[0179] The control unit is configured to move the intermediate pulley and the lower entry and exit pulleys relative to each other to a first, lower position 49 and a second, upper position 50 via the intermediate pulley actuator and / or the entry actuator and exit actuator. In the first, lower position 49, as shown in figures 8A, 8E and 12 an underside of the intermediate pulley is located further below an underside of the lower entry and exit pulleys than in the second, upper position 50, which is shown in figure 8D.

[0180] When seen perpendicular to the central vertical longitudinal plane 45, in the first, lower position the lower section of the of the third conveyor belt has a convex shape 83. In the second, upper position the lower section of the third conveyor belt has a substantially straight shape or a less convex shape.

[0181] In both the first, lower position and the second, upper position the product conveyor device is suitable to orient products 330. In the first, lower position however, irregularly shaped, in particular elongated products, such as pears can be better oriented. Orienting is improved, because of the extra space under the lower section 656 of the third conveyor belt 20C on both sides of the intermediate pulley 686. Said extra space reduces the likelihood that a part of the product, here for example the stem of the pear, becomes stuck behind the third, upper conveyor belt 20C. Another improvement is that a convex shaped part of upperbelt 20C, 656 has a shorter contact line with an elongated product which causes a much lower friction moment for orienting around a vertical axis where as a result orienting can go faster. The roller mechanism 20D also has these advantages, but the disadvantage that it cannot keep the product in orientation while conveying.

[0182] In the second, upper position 50 shown in figure 8D the likelihood that the stem gets stuck behind the third, upper conveyor belt during orienting is greater. The second position 50 is however more effective for conveying the products along adjacent product conveyor devices 2, because the entire lower section 656 can remain in contact with the product. The ability to switch between the first, lower position and the second, upper position provides a more versatile product handling system.

[0183] The intermediate pulley 686 is configured to be located directly above the product for orienting thereof, as shown in figures 8A and 12.

[0184] Turning to figure 13, i.e. figures 13A-C, an embodiment is shown of the upper conveyor belt assembly 707B, wherein the third conveyor belt extends around the entry lower pulley 653A and the exit lower pulley 653B, and wherein at least one of the exit and entry lower pulley is a driven pulley. The entry lower pulley is connected to an entry suspension mechanism 712. The exit lower pulley is connected to an exit suspension mechanism 713. The entry support mechanism supports the entry lower pulley and allows the entry lower pulley to move up and down between a lower entry position and an upper entry position. The exit support mechanism 713 supports the exit lower pulley and allows the exit lower pulley to move up and down between a lower exit position and an upper exit position. The entry and exit lower pulleys are supported by shafts that are pivotable about and supported at a pivot axis 910 at an end opposite the end where the entry or exit pulleys are connected. At the end opposite the entry or exit pulleys the shafts 902 are driven via a driving device 914 comprising a transmission belt 913 and a transmission pulley 912. In this embodiment linear ball bearings 911 , 904 are used that combine rotation and translation of the shafts supporting the entry or exit pulleys. The shafts and entry and exit pulleys are able to move laterally with low friction because of these linear ball bearings.

[0185] The entry lower pulley and the exit lower pulley are movable up and down relative to each other via a respective entry actuator 668A and exit actuator 668B. Every shaft is connected to a corresponding actuator 668A, 668B for moving the respective entry or exit pulley up and down or change the pressure to a higher or lower force on the product. Said movement is guided via a roller 904 with an internally combined linear and rotational ball bearing that rotates frictionless through cam tracks 903. Each roller 904 is connected to a shaft 902.

[0186] Similar resilient members 71, actuators 270 or restricting members 72 can be used for the movement of the entry and exit pulleys 653A, 653B transverse to the central longitudinal vertical plane 45.

[0187] An advantage of having the third conveyor belt extend around the entry and exit pulley only, is that the distance between the pulleys can be much smaller, as small as a small apple. Since there is such a small distance between the pulleys the intermediate pulley can be omitted.

[0188] By controlling the vertical location of adjacent pulleys via corresponding pulley actuators 668A, 668B, a convex shape 83 can be created similar to the convex shape 83 when using an intermediate pulley. The convex shape allows irregular shapes like the stem of a pear or a curved pear to stay under the third conveyor belts when orienting. It is possible to create a moving convex shape by changing the vertical location of adjacent downstream pulleys in a downstream sequence with the same speed as a product is moving forward. This could be beneficial in case it would be desired for a continuous on the fly orienting of irregular products. Continuous orienting could be faster than start stop orienting because all the available acceleration can be used for orienting instead of linear acceleration.

[0189] Turning to figure 14, multiple product handling systems 1 arranged in parallel for grading products are shown. Each product handling system 1 comprises five product conveyor devices 2. Two eject conveyor belts (referred to as eject belts) 85A are shown. For example, a first belt 85A could serve for bad spots on the product or other defects. A second belt 85A could be used for a shape deviation, such as a strongly curved product. Belt 85B, 85C and 85D are used to eject different sizes of product sideways from the grader. The last product conveyor device 2.5 is shown in an opened state. For example, belt 85B is intended to receive a small product and belt 85D for a large product. When the size of a product is recorded with the cameras by the product handling system 1, the recorded size is remembered while transporters 253A, 253B convey the product to the correct belts 85B, 85C and 85D, at which moment the two ejection belts 252A, 252B open. A small product will leave the machine on belt 85B and a large product on belt 85D.

[0190] Regarding the cylinders, 668A 668B can be a spring or pneumatic cylinder configured for exerting a constant pressure on the product being oriented or temporarily lifting for recentering purposes when using high friction belts on the first and second conveyor belt.

[0191] Cylinders 668C, 668D can be spring or pneumatic cylinder or actuator for positioning roller 686 in an upper or lower position and / or exerting a constant pressure on the product being oriented.

[0192] Actuator 270 can be one or more actuators in series for positioning the transverse movement of the upperbelt or roller mechanism which can be a resilient member for pushing the upperbelt or roller mechanism to a central plane 45 or to use an off centric position of the upperbelt or roller mechanism while still having a resilient function. Some products and orienting directions do orient better with an off centric position of the transverse moving upper belt or upper roller mechanism.

[0193] As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention, which can be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed structure. Further, the terms and phrases used herein are not intended to be limiting, but rather, to provide an understandable description of the invention. Not all embodiments may achieve all stated objects.

[0194] The terms "a" or "an", as used herein, are defined as one or more than one. The term plurality, as used herein, is defined as two or more than two. The term another, as used herein, is defined as at least a second or more. The terms including and / or having, as used herein, are defined as comprising i.e. , open language, not excluding other elements or steps. Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims or the invention.

[0195] When referring to a figure X that comprises figures XA, XB, XC, etc., all said figures XA, XB, XC etc. are referred to.

[0196] The present invention further relates to the following numbered clauses:

[0197] 1. Product handling system (1) comprising a frame (3) and at least one product conveyor device (2) configured for conveying products (330), in particular horticultural or agricultural products such as fruits and vegetables, flower bulbs and rounded food products, the product conveyor device comprising:

[0198] - a first belt conveyor (20A) comprising a first drive (21A),

[0199] - a second belt conveyor (20B) comprising a second drive (21 B),

[0200] - at least a third conveyor belt (20C) or roller mechanism (20D) comprising a third drive (21C), wherein the first and second belt conveyor, and the third conveyor belt or roller mechanism of each product conveyor device extend over a horizontal distance in a transport direction (T) and are configured to convey products over a horizontal distance in the transport direction, wherein the first and second belt conveyor, and the third conveyor belt or roller mechanism provide a product space (24) between them, and are configured to support the products on at least three sides thereof, wherein the product handling system further comprises:

[0201] - at least one sensor, in particular at least one camera (25;251), configured for recording data, in particular images, of a product which is conveyed by the product handling system,

[0202] - a control unit (100) configured for processing the recorded data and controlling the first drive, second drive and third drive on the basis of the processed data.

[0203] 2. Product handling system according to clause 1, wherein: - the first belt conveyor is a left lower belt conveyor comprising a left drive,

[0204] - the second belt conveyor is a right lower belt conveyor comprising a right drive,

[0205] - the third conveyor belt or roller mechanism is configured to contact an upper side of the product, wherein the left and right lower belt conveyor diverge from one another in an upward direction, and in particular have a V-formation, wherein the left and right lower belt conveyor and the upper conveyor belt or roller mechanism provide the product space (24) between them, wherein the left and right lower belt conveyor and the upper conveyor belt or roller mechanism are configured to support the products on at least three sides thereof. Product handling system according to clause 1 or 2, wherein the third conveyor belt (20C), or the roller mechanism (20D) is movable in a direction transverse to the transport direction (T) via a moving mechanism (10). Product handling system according to the preceding clause, wherein a central vertical longitudinal plane (45) is defined by the first and second belt conveyor, and the third conveyor belt (20C) or roller mechanism (20D), wherein the third conveyor belt (20C) or roller mechanism (20D) is movable in a direction transverse to said central vertical longitudinal plane (45). Product handling system according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the first belt conveyor, in particular the left lower belt conveyor, or part thereof, is coupled to the second belt conveyor, in particular the right lower belt conveyor, or part thereof, via a coupling mechanism (26), wherein the coupling mechanism is configured to cause an upward movement of the first belt conveyor or part thereof upon a downward movement of the second belt conveyor or part thereof, and vice versa. Product handling system according to clause 4 or 5, wherein the third conveyor belt (20C) or roller mechanism (20D) is pivotable about a first pivot axis (271), wherein the first pivot axis is located on a side of the third conveyor belt (20C) or roller mechanism (20D) opposite the first and second belt conveyor, and wherein the first pivot axis extends substantially parallel to the transport direction (T), and / or wherein the third conveyor belt or roller mechanism is axially movable. Product handling system according to any one of clauses 4 - 6, wherein the moving mechanism comprises a resilient member (71) for providing a resilient force on the third conveyor belt (20C) or roller mechanism (20D) when the third conveyor belt (20C) or roller mechanism (20D) moves away from the central vertical longitudinal plane.

[0206] 8. Product handling system according to any one of clauses 4-7, wherein the moving mechanism comprises a restricting member (72) for restricting the movement of the third conveyor belt (20C) or roller mechanism (20D) in the direction transverse to the transport direction beyond a predetermined position.

[0207] 9. Product handling system according to any one of clauses 4-8, wherein the moving mechanism comprises a mechanism actuator (270) for moving the third conveyor belt (20C) or roller mechanism (20D) towards and away from the central vertical longitudinal plane.

[0208] 10. Product handling system according to any one of clauses 5-9, wherein the coupling mechanism (26) comprises a first coupling arm (233) that is connected with a first end (32) thereof to the first belt conveyor or part thereof, and a second coupling arm (33) that is connected with a first end (34) thereof to the second belt conveyor or part thereof, wherein opposite second ends (35) of the first coupling arm and the second coupling arm are coupled to each other.

[0209] 11. Product handling system according to the preceding clause, wherein the coupling mechanism comprises a first belt support (232), in particular a first belt support plate, that is provided under and in contact with an endless belt (243) of the first belt conveyor and a second belt support, in particular a second belt support plate, that is provided under and in contact with an endless belt of the second belt conveyor, wherein the first and second belt supports are movable in a direction substantially perpendicular to their respective belt surface, wherein the first end of the first coupling arm is connected to the first belt support, and wherein the first end of the second coupling arm is connected to the second belt support.

[0210] 12. Product handling system according to the preceding clause, wherein the first ends of the first coupling arm and the second coupling arm each comprise a first end contact surface (37) that is in contact with an under surface of the endless belt of the respective conveyor belt that is opposite a product support surface or with an under surface of their respective belt support, wherein the second ends of the first coupling arm and the second coupling arm each comprise a second end contact surface (38) that abut each other.

[0211] 13. Product handling system according to the preceding clause, wherein first ends of the first coupling arm and second coupling arm each comprise a first end roller (235), wherein the first end roller comprises the first end contact surface, and wherein the second ends of the first coupling arm and second coupling arm each comprise a second end roller (234), wherein the second end roller comprises the second end contact surface.

[0212] 14. Product handling system according to clause 12 or 13, wherein in an initial working position (39) the second end contact surfaces of the first coupling arm and the second coupling arm abut at the central vertical longitudinal plane.

[0213] 15. Product handling system according to any one of the preceding clauses 10-14, wherein the first coupling arm is pivotable about a first arm pivot axis (40), and wherein the second coupling arm is pivotable about a second arm pivot axis, wherein the first arm pivot axis and second arm pivot axis extend substantially parallel to the transport direction.

[0214] 16. Product handling system according to clause 10 or 11 , wherein the first coupling arm and second coupling arm are coupled to each other via a pivotable connecting arm (231), wherein the second end of the first coupling arm is connected to a first connecting end (41) of the connecting arm, and wherein the second end of the second coupling arm is connected to an opposite, second connecting end (42) of the connecting arm, wherein the connecting arm is pivotable about a pivot axis located between the first connecting end and the second connecting end, in particular in the middle thereof.

[0215] 17. Product handling system according to any one of the preceding clauses, the product conveyor device comprising an entry (16) where a product is received by the product conveyor device, and an exit (18) via which the product leaves the product conveyor device, wherein the control unit (100) is configured for controlling at least the first and second belt conveyor, and the third conveyor belt (20C) or roller mechanism (20D) for conveying the product to the exit.

[0216] 18. Product handling system according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the third conveyor belt is part of an upper conveyor belt assembly (707;707A) comprising: o at least one driven pulley (659), o an entry lower pulley (653A) positioned at the entry of the product conveyor device, o an exit lower pulley (653B) positioned at an exit of the product conveyor device, o the upper third conveyor belt (20C) which extends at least around the driven pulley, the entry lower pulley and the exit lower pulley, and wherein a lower section (656) of the third conveyor belt extends between the entry pulley and the exit pulley, wherein the upper conveyor belt assembly comprises an entry suspension mechanism (712) and an exit suspension mechanism (713), wherein the entry suspension mechanism (712) is connected to the frame and to a respective entry lower pulley, wherein the entry suspension mechanism supports the entry lower pulley and allows the entry lower pulley to move up and down between a lower entry position and an upper entry position, wherein the exit suspension mechanism (713) is connected to the frame and to a respective exit lower pulley, wherein the exit suspension mechanism supports the exit lower pulley and allows the exit lower pulley to move up and down between a lower exit position and an upper exit position, wherein when a product engages a lower section of the upper third conveyor belt the upper conveyor belt assembly, the lower section of the upper belt, the lower entry pulley and the lower exit pulley are moved upwards, wherein the entry and exit suspension mechanism provide a downward pre-tension force on the lower section, causing the lower section to press downward on the product. Product handling system according to the preceding clause, wherein the upper conveyor belt assembly comprises an intermediate pulley (686) pressing downward on the lower section, the intermediate pulley being movable transverse to the transport direction, either together with or relative to the entry and exit lower pulleys. Product handling system according to the preceding clause, wherein the intermediate pulley is axially movable independently from the lower entry and exit pulleys via a slider mechanism (10B) for allowing at least a part of the third conveyor belt to move in a direction transverse to the central vertical longitudinal plane (45). Product handling system according to any one of the preceding clauses 18-20, wherein the entry lower pulley (653A) and / or the exit lower pulley (653B) and / or the intermediate pulley (686) are independently axially movable along a fixed rotation shaft that extends perpendicular to the central vertical longitudinal plane, wherein the pulleys are in particular configured to slide and rotate along the rotation shaft via a plain bearing. Product handling system according to any one of clauses 19 - 21, wherein the intermediate pulley is configured to be located directly above the product for orienting thereof, wherein the intermediate pulley is movable in the direction transverse to the central vertical longitudinal plane.

[0217] 23. Product handling system according to any one of clauses 19-22, wherein the intermediate pulley is movable up and down relative to the lower entry and exit pulleys via an intermediate pulley actuator (668C;668D), and / or wherein the lower exit and entry pulleys are movable up and down relative to the intermediate pulley via a respective entry actuator (668A) and exit actuator (668B).

[0218] 24. Product handling system according to the preceding clause, wherein the control unit is configured to move the intermediate pulley and the lower entry and exit pulleys relative to each other to a first, lower position (49) and a second, upper position (50) via the intermediate pulley actuator and / or the entry actuator and exit actuator, wherein in the first, lower position an underside of the intermediate pulley is located below or further below an underside of the lower entry and exit pulleys than in the second, upper position.

[0219] 25. Product handling system according to the preceding clause, wherein, when seen perpendicular to the central vertical longitudinal plane (45), in the first, lower position the lower section of the of the third conveyor belt has a convex shape, and wherein in the second, upper position the lower section of the third conveyor belt has a substantially straight shape or a less convex shape.

[0220] 26. Product handling system according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the control unit is configured for carrying out one or more of the following processing actions:

[0221] - orient the products to a target orientation (715) by applying speed differences between the first belt conveyor, second belt conveyor and third conveyor belt or roller mechanism of a product conveyor device,

[0222] - discharge products from the product handling system, on the basis of a product property recorded with a sensor, in particular a camera, by moving the first and second belt conveyor, in particular the left and right lower belt conveyor, of one or more of the product conveyor devices away from one another, thereby creating a gap (1016) through which the product is discharged,

[0223] - grade products on the basis of one or more product parameters, such as size, colour, shape, rot or another product parameter, by: o recording images of the products with the at least one camera and / or detecting a product property with the at least one sensor, and processing the scanned images or recorded product property with the control unit to determine whether a product complies with a first criterion or a second criterion, o moving the first and second belt conveyor, in particular the left and right lower belt conveyor, of a first product conveyor device away from one another in case the product complies with the first criterion, and o moving the first and second belt conveyor, in particular the left and right lower belt conveyor, of a second product conveyor device away from one another in case the product complies with the second criterion,

[0224] - divide an incoming stream of products into two or more outgoing streams of products by moving the first and second belt conveyor, in particular the left and right lower belt conveyor, of one product conveyor device away from one another for a subset of the incoming products and discharging said products of said subset to a lower conveyor and conveying the other products of the incoming stream entirely through the product handling system. Product handling system according to any one of the preceding clauses, comprising multiple product conveyor devices (2) placed in series. Product handling system according to the preceding clause, wherein the control unit (100) is configured to carry out one or more of the following processing actions:

[0225] - group the products into groups (717) by applying speed differences between product conveyor devices,

[0226] - convert an incoming stream of products having a variable pitch distance into an outgoing stream of products having a more uniform pitch distance, in particular for feeding the products to a downstream conveyor or to packaging machine such as a flowpack device, topseal device, shrink wrapping device or a thermoformer machine or to a fruit loading robot by applying speed differences between product conveyor devices (2),

[0227] - buffer the products by positioning multiple products close together by applying speed differences between product conveyor devices (2). Product handling system according to the clause 27 or 28, wherein the entry and the exit of the first and second belt conveyor are defined by an entry roller (238A) and an exit roller (238B) thereof, wherein the exit roller of a product conveyor device is substantially flush with an entry roller of an adjacent product conveyor device, when seen along a respective conveyor belt rotation axis (47), said conveyor belt rotation axis extending perpendicular to the transport direction (T). Product handling system according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein one or more product conveyor devices are configured to rotate a product about a first and a second rotation axis extending in an YZ-plane which is oriented orthogonal to the transport direction (X,T), and in particular to transition between the first and the second rotation axis. Product handling system according to any of clauses 28-30, wherein the control unit (100) is configured for orienting the products, followed by buffering the products and subsequently controlling the pitch distance between the products and / or grouping the products. Product handling system according to any one of the preceding clauses, further comprising a labelling and / or an optical marking device like a laser marking device (260) positioned downstream of one or more of the product conveyor devices used for orienting. Product handling system according to any one of the preceding clauses, the third conveyor belt is part of an upper conveyor belt assembly (707) configured to engage an upper side of the product, the upper conveyor belt assembly comprising one or more upper conveyor belts (20C) placed in series, each upper conveyor belt comprising: o at least one driven pulley (659), o an entry lower pulley (653A) positioned on an arrival side of the conveyor belt system where the products arrive, o an exit lower pulley (653B)positioned at an exit side of the upper conveyor belt where the products leave the conveyor belt system, o an upper belt (709) which extends at least around the driven pulley, the entry and exit lower pulley, wherein a lower section of the upper belt extends between the entry pulley and the exit pulley, the upper conveyor belt assembly further comprising a plurality of entry suspension mechanisms (712) and a plurality of exit suspension mechanisms (713), wherein each entry suspension mechanism is connected to the frame and to a respective entry lower pulley, wherein each entry suspension mechanism supports the entry lower pulley and allows the entry lower pulley to move up and down between a lower entry position and an upper entry position, wherein each exit suspension mechanism is connected to the frame and to a respective exit lower pulley, wherein each exit suspension mechanism supports the exit lower pulley and allows the exit lower pulley to move up and down between a lower exit position and an upper exit position, wherein when a product engages a lower section of one of the upper belts of the upper conveyor belt assembly, the lower section of the upper belt, the lower entry pulley and the lower exit pulley are moved upwards, wherein the entry and exit suspension mechanism provide a downward pre-tension force on the lower section, causing the lower section to press downward on the product. Method of handling products, in particular horticultural or agricultural products such as fruits and vegetables, flower bulbs and rounded food products, the method comprising conveying products with the product handling system (1) according to any one of the preceding clauses, and performing one or more of the following actions:

[0228] - orienting the products to a target orientation (715) by applying speed differences between the first belt conveyor, second belt conveyor and third conveyor belt or roller mechanism,

[0229] - discharging products from the product handling system by moving the first and second belt conveyor of one or more of the product conveyor devices away from one another, thereby creating a gap (1016) through which the product is discharged,

[0230] - grading products on the basis of one or more product parameters, such as size, colour, shape, rot or another product parameter, by: o recording images of the products with the at least one camera and / or detecting a product parameter with the at least one sensor, and processing the scanned images or recorded product parameter(s) with the control unit to determine whether a product complies with a first qualifying criterion or a second qualifying criterion, o moving the first and second belt conveyor of a first product conveyor device away from one another in case the product complies with the first qualifying criterion, and o moving the first and second lower belt conveyor of a second product conveyor device away from one another in case the product complies with the second qualifying criterion,

[0231] - dividing an incoming stream of products into two or more outgoing streams of products by moving the first and second belt conveyor of one product conveyor device away from one another for a subset of the incoming products and discharging said products of said subset to a lower conveyor and conveying the other products of the incoming stream entirely through the product handling system Method according to the preceding clause, wherein the product handling system comprises multiple product conveyor devices placed in series, wherein the method further comprises performing one or more of the following actions: - grouping the products into groups (717) by applying speed differences between product conveyor devices,

[0232] - converting an incoming stream of products having a variable pitch distance into an outgoing stream of products having a more uniform pitch distance, in particular for feeding the products to a downstream conveyor or packaging machine such as a flowpack device, topseal device, shrink wrapping device or a thermoformer machine or to a fruit loading robot by applying speed differences between product conveyor devices,

[0233] - buffering the products by positioning multiple products close together by applying speed differences between product conveyor devices, Method according to the preceding clause, wherein each product conveyor device partially orients the product so that consecutive product conveyor devices fully orient the product in a joint operation to a target orientation, or wherein each product conveyor device fully orients the product to a target orientation, and wherein in both situations a plurality of orienting devices simultaneously orient a plurality of products. Method according to any one of the preceding method clauses, further comprising labelling and / or laser marking the product after the product is oriented to the target orientation.

Claims

CLAIMS1. Product handling system (1) comprising a frame (3) and at least one product conveyor device (2) configured for conveying and / or orienting products (330), in particular horticultural or agricultural products such as fruits and vegetables, flower bulbs and rounded food products, the product conveyor device comprising:- a first belt conveyor (20A) comprising a first drive (21A),- a second belt conveyor (20B) comprising a second drive (21 B),- at least a third conveyor belt (20C) or roller mechanism (20D) comprising a third drive (21C), wherein the first and second belt conveyor, and the third conveyor belt or roller mechanism of each product conveyor device extend over a horizontal distance in a transport direction (T) and are configured to convey products over a horizontal distance in the transport direction, wherein the first and second belt conveyor, and the third conveyor belt or roller mechanism provide a product space (24) between them, and are configured to support the products on at least three sides thereof, wherein the product handling system further comprises:- at least one sensor, in particular at least one camera (25;251), configured for recording data, in particular images, of a product which is conveyed by the product handling system,- a control unit (100) configured for processing the recorded data and controlling the first drive, second drive and third drive on the basis of the processed data.

2. Product handling system according to claim 1, wherein:- the first belt conveyor is a left lower belt conveyor comprising a left drive,- the second belt conveyor is a right lower belt conveyor comprising a right drive,- the third conveyor belt or roller mechanism is configured to contact an upper side of the product, wherein the left and right lower belt conveyor diverge from one another in an upward direction, and in particular have a V-formation, wherein the left and right lower belt conveyor and the upper conveyor belt or roller mechanism provide the product space (24) between them, wherein the left and right lower belt conveyor and the upper conveyor belt or roller mechanism are configured to support the products on at least three sides thereof.

3. Product handling system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the third conveyor belt (20C) or a part thereof configured to be in contact with the product, or the roller mechanism (20D) or a part thereof configured to be in contact with the product is movable in a direction transverse to the transport direction (T) via a moving mechanism (10).

4. Product handling system according to the preceding claim, wherein a central vertical longitudinal plane (45) is defined by the first and second belt conveyor, and the third conveyor belt (20C) or roller mechanism (20D), wherein the third conveyor belt (20C) or roller mechanism (20D), or a part of the third conveyor belt or roller mechanism configured to be in contact with the product, is movable in a direction transverse to said central vertical longitudinal plane (45).

5. Product handling system according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a recontacting device (80) configured to move the first belt conveyor or a part thereof configured to be in contact with the product, and / or the second belt conveyor or a part thereof configured to be in contact with the product, in a direction towards the product when one of the belts of first belt conveyor and the second belt conveyor loses contact with the product.

6. Product handling system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first belt conveyor, in particular the left lower belt conveyor, or part thereof, is coupled to the second belt conveyor, in particular the right lower belt conveyor, or part thereof, via a coupling mechanism (26), wherein the coupling mechanism is configured to cause an upward movement, or a movement in a direction towards the product, of the first belt conveyor or part thereof upon a downward movement, or a movement in a direction away from the product, of the second belt conveyor or part thereof, and vice versa.

7. Product handling system according to any one of claims 4 - 6, wherein the third conveyor belt (20C) or part thereof, or roller mechanism (20D) or part thereof, is pivotable about a first pivot axis (271), wherein the first pivot axis is located on a side of the third conveyor belt (20C) or roller mechanism (20D) opposite the first and second belt conveyor, and wherein the first pivot axis extends substantially parallel to the transport direction (T), and / or wherein the third conveyor belt or roller mechanism is axially, or laterally, movable.

8. Product handling system according to any one of claims 4 - 7, wherein the moving mechanism comprises a resilient member (71) for providing a resilient force on the thirdconveyor belt (20C) or part thereof, or roller mechanism (20D) or part thereof when the third conveyor belt (20C) or roller mechanism (20D) moves away from the central vertical longitudinal plane.

9. Product handling system according to any one of claims 4-8, wherein the moving mechanism comprises a restricting member (72) for restricting the movement of the third conveyor belt (20C) or roller mechanism (20D) in the direction transverse to the transport direction beyond a predetermined position, in particular in the direction transverse to the central vertical longitudinal plane.

10. Product handling system according to any one of claims 4-9, wherein the moving mechanism comprises at least one mechanism actuator (270) for moving the third conveyor belt (20C) or a part thereof, or roller mechanism (20D) or a part thereof in the direction transverse to the transport direction.

11. Product handling system according to the preceding claim, wherein the at least one mechanism actuator is configured to move the third conveyor belt (20C) or a part thereof, or roller mechanism (20D) or a part thereof towards and away from the central vertical longitudinal plane.

12. Product handling system according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a vibrating device (84) configured to vibrate the first belt conveyor or a part thereof configured to be in contact with the product, and / or the second belt conveyor or a part thereof configured to be in contact with the product, and / or the third conveyor belt (20C) or roller mechanism (20D) or a part thereof configured to be in contact with the product.

13. Product handling system according to the preceding claim, wherein the at least one mechanism actuator (270) is part of the vibrating device and configured to generate the vibrations.

14. Product handling system according to any one of claims 6-13, wherein the coupling mechanism (26) comprises a first coupling arm (233) that is connected with a first end (32) thereof to the first belt conveyor or part thereof, and a second coupling arm (33) that is connected with a first end (34) thereof to the second belt conveyor or part thereof, wherein opposite second ends (35) of the first coupling arm and the second coupling arm are coupled to each other.

15. Product handling system according to the preceding claim, wherein the coupling mechanism comprises a first belt support (232), in particular a first belt support plate,that is provided under and in contact with an endless belt (243) of the first belt conveyor and a second belt support, in particular a second belt support plate, that is provided under and in contact with an endless belt of the second belt conveyor, wherein the first and second belt supports are movable in a direction substantially perpendicular to their respective belt surface, wherein the first end of the first coupling arm is connected to the first belt support, and wherein the first end of the second coupling arm is connected to the second belt support.

16. Product handling system according to the preceding claim, wherein the first ends of the first coupling arm and the second coupling arm each comprise a first end contact surface (37) that is in contact with an under surface of the endless belt of the respective conveyor belt that is opposite a product support surface or with an under surface of their respective belt support, wherein the second ends of the first coupling arm and the second coupling arm each comprise a second end contact surface (38) that abut each other, or wherein the second end of the first coupling arm and the second coupling arm are connected to each other via a connecting rod.

17. Product handling system according to the preceding claim, wherein first ends of the first coupling arm and second coupling arm each comprise a first end roller (235), wherein the first end roller comprises the first end contact surface, and wherein the second ends of the first coupling arm and second coupling arm each comprise a second end roller (234), wherein the second end roller comprises the second end contact surface.

18. Product handling system according to claim 16 or 17, wherein in an initial working position (39) the second end contact surfaces of the first coupling arm and the second coupling arm abut at the central vertical longitudinal plane.

19. Product handling system according to any one of the preceding claims 14-18, wherein the first coupling arm is pivotable about a first arm pivot axis (40), and wherein the second coupling arm is pivotable about a second arm pivot axis, wherein the first arm pivot axis and second arm pivot axis extend substantially parallel to the transport direction.

20. Product handling system according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the first coupling arm and second coupling arm are coupled to each other via a pivotable connecting arm (231), wherein the second end of the first coupling arm is connected to a first connecting end (41) of the connecting arm, and wherein the second end of the second coupling arm is connected to an opposite, second connecting end (42) of the connecting arm, whereinthe connecting arm is pivotable about a pivot axis located between the first connecting end and the second connecting end, in particular in the middle thereof.

21. Product handling system according to any one of the preceding claims, the product conveyor device comprising an entry (16) where a product is received by the product conveyor device, and an exit (18) via which the product leaves the product conveyor device, wherein the control unit (100) is configured for controlling at least the first and second belt conveyor, and the third conveyor belt (20C) or roller mechanism (20D) for conveying the product to the exit.

22. Product handling system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the third conveyor belt is part of an upper conveyor belt assembly (707;707A;707B) comprising: o an entry lower pulley (653A) positioned at the entry of the product conveyor device, o an exit lower pulley (653B) positioned at an exit of the product conveyor device, o at least one driven pulley (659), wherein the entry lower pulley is a driven pulley and / or wherein the exit lower pulley is a driven pulley and / or wherein the driven pulley is a separate driven pulley (659), o the upper third conveyor belt (20C) which extends at least around the entry lower pulley and the exit lower pulley, and wherein a lower section (656) of the third conveyor belt extends between the entry pulley and the exit pulley, wherein the upper conveyor belt assembly comprises an entry suspension mechanism (712) and an exit suspension mechanism (713), wherein the entry suspension mechanism (712) is connected to the frame and to a respective entry lower pulley, wherein the entry suspension mechanism supports the entry lower pulley and allows the entry lower pulley to move up and down between a lower entry position and an upper entry position, wherein the exit suspension mechanism (713) is connected to the frame and to a respective exit lower pulley, wherein the exit suspension mechanism supports the exit lower pulley and allows the exit lower pulley to move up and down between a lower exit position and an upper exit position, wherein when a product engages a lower section of the upper third conveyor belt the upper conveyor belt assembly, the lower section of the upper belt, the lower entry pulley and the lower exit pulley are moved upwards, wherein the entry and exit suspension mechanism provide a downward pre-tension force on the lower section, causing the lower section to press downward on the product.

23. Product handling system according to the preceding claim, wherein the upper conveyor belt assembly comprises an intermediate pulley (686) pressing downward on the lower section, the intermediate pulley being movable transverse to the transport direction, either together with or relative to the entry and exit lower pulleys.

24. Product handling system according to the preceding claim, wherein the intermediate pulley is axially movable independently from the lower entry and exit pulleys via a slider mechanism (10B) for allowing at least a part of the third conveyor belt to move in a direction transverse to the central vertical longitudinal plane (45).

25. Product handling system according to any one of the preceding claims 23-24, wherein the entry lower pulley (653A) and / or the exit lower pulley (653B) and / or the intermediate pulley (686) are independently axially movable along an axially fixed rotation shaft that extends perpendicular to the central vertical longitudinal plane, wherein the pulleys are in particular configured to slide and rotate along the rotation shaft via a plain bearing.

26. Product handling system according to any one of claims 23 - 25, wherein the intermediate pulley is configured to be located directly above the product for orienting thereof, wherein the intermediate pulley is movable in the direction transverse to the central vertical longitudinal plane.

27. Product handling system according to any one of claims 22-26, wherein the entry lower pulley and the exit lower pulley are movable up and down relative to each other via a respective entry actuator (668A) and exit actuator (668B).

28. Product handling system according to any one of claims 23-27, wherein the intermediate pulley is movable up and down relative to the lower entry and exit pulleys via an intermediate pulley actuator (668C;668D), and / or wherein the lower exit and entry pulleys are movable up and down relative to the intermediate pulley via a respective entry actuator (668A) and exit actuator (668B).

29. Product handling system according to the preceding claim, wherein the control unit is configured to move the intermediate pulley and the lower entry and exit pulleys relative to each other to a first, lower position (49) and a second, upper position (50) via the intermediate pulley actuator and / or the entry actuator and exit actuator, wherein in the first, lower position an underside of the intermediate pulley is located below or further below an underside of the lower entry and exit pulleys than in the second, upper position.

30. Product handling system according to the preceding claim, wherein, when seen perpendicular to the central vertical longitudinal plane (45), in the first, lower position the lower section of the of the third conveyor belt has a convex shape, and wherein in the second, upper position the lower section of the third conveyor belt has a substantially straight shape or a less convex shape.

31. Product handling system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit is configured for carrying out one or more of the following processing actions:- orient the products to a target orientation (715) by applying speed differences between the first belt conveyor, second belt conveyor and third conveyor belt or roller mechanism of a product conveyor device,- discharge products from the product handling system, on the basis of a product property recorded with a sensor, in particular a camera, by moving the first and second belt conveyor, in particular the left and right lower belt conveyor, of one or more of the product conveyor devices away from one another, thereby creating a gap (1016) through which the product is discharged,- grade products on the basis of one or more product parameters, such as size, colour, shape, rot or another product parameter, by: o recording images of the products with the at least one camera and / or detecting a product property with the at least one sensor, in particular while rotating the products by applying speed differences between the first belt conveyor, second belt conveyor and third conveyor belt or roller mechanism of a product conveyor device, and processing the scanned images or recorded product property with the control unit to determine whether a product complies with a first criterion or a second criterion, o moving the first and second belt conveyor, in particular the left and right lower belt conveyor, of a first product conveyor device away from one another in case the product complies with the first criterion, and o moving the first and second belt conveyor, in particular the left and right lower belt conveyor, of a second product conveyor device away from one another in case the product complies with the second criterion,- divide an incoming stream of products into two or more outgoing streams of products by moving the first and second belt conveyor, in particular the left and right lower belt conveyor, of one product conveyor device away from one another for a subset of the incoming products and discharging said products of said subset to a lower conveyor and conveying the other products of the incoming stream entirely through the product handling system.

32. Product handling system according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising multiple product conveyor devices (2) placed in series.

33. Product handling system according to the preceding claim, wherein the control unit (100) is configured to carry out one or more of the following processing actions:- group the products into groups (717) by applying speed differences between product conveyor devices,- convert an incoming stream of products having a variable pitch distance into an outgoing stream of products having a more uniform pitch distance, in particular for feeding the products to a downstream conveyor or to packaging machine such as a flowpack device, topseal device, shrink wrapping device or a thermoformer machine or to a fruit loading robot by applying speed differences between product conveyor devices (2),- buffer the products by positioning multiple products close together by applying speed differences between product conveyor devices (2).

34. Product handling system according to the claim 32 or338, wherein the entry and the exit of the first and second belt conveyor are defined by an entry roller (238A) and an exit roller (238B) thereof, wherein the exit roller of a product conveyor device is substantially flush with an entry roller of an adjacent product conveyor device, when seen along a respective conveyor belt rotation axis (47), said conveyor belt rotation axis extending perpendicular to the transport direction (T).

35. Product handling system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein one or more product conveyor devices are configured to rotate a product about a first and a second rotation axis extending in an YZ-plane which is oriented orthogonal to the transport direction (X,T), and in particular to transition between the first and the second rotation axis.

36. Product handling system according to any of claims 33-35, wherein the control unit (100) is configured for orienting the products, followed by buffering the products and subsequently controlling the pitch distance between the products and / or grouping the products.

37. Product handling system according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a labelling and / or an optical marking device like a laser marking device (260) positioned downstream of one or more of the product conveyor devices used for orienting.

38. Product handling system according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a grader positioned upstream of one or more of the product conveyor devices.

39. Product handling system according to any one of the preceding claims, the third conveyor belt is part of an upper conveyor belt assembly (707;707A;707B) configured to engage an upper side of the product, the upper conveyor belt assembly comprising one or more upper conveyor belts (20C) placed in series, each upper conveyor belt comprising: o an entry lower pulley (653A) positioned on an arrival side of the conveyor belt system where the products arrive, o an exit lower pulley (653B) positioned at an exit side of the upper conveyor belt where the products leave the conveyor belt system, o at least one driven pulley (659), wherein the entry lower pulley is a driven pulley and / or wherein the exit lower pulley is a driven pulley and / or wherein the driven pulley is a separate driven pulley (659), o an upper belt (709) which extends at least around the entry and exit lower pulley, wherein a lower section of the upper belt extends between the entry pulley and the exit pulley, the upper conveyor belt assembly further comprising a plurality of entry suspension mechanisms (712) and a plurality of exit suspension mechanisms (713), wherein each entry suspension mechanism is connected to the frame and to a respective entry lower pulley, wherein each entry suspension mechanism supports the entry lower pulley and allows the entry lower pulley to move up and down between a lower entry position and an upper entry position, wherein each exit suspension mechanism is connected to the frame and to a respective exit lower pulley, wherein each exit suspension mechanism supports the exit lower pulley and allows the exit lower pulley to move up and down between a lower exit position and an upper exit position, wherein when a product engages a lower section of one of the upper belts of the upper conveyor belt assembly, the lower section of the upper belt, the lower entry pulley and the lower exit pulley are moved upwards, wherein the entry and exit suspension mechanism provide a downward pre-tension force on the lower section, causing the lower section to press downward on the product.

40. Product handling system according to the preceding claim, wherein the upper conveyor belts placed in series alternately have a first configuration and a second configuration, wherein upper conveyor belts having a first configuration comprise anentry suspension mechanism (712) and an exit suspension mechanism (713) and wherein the upper conveyor belts having a second configuration do not comprise an own entry suspension mechanism or exit suspension mechanism but cooperate with the exit suspension mechanism and entry suspension mechanism of the upper conveyor belts positioned upstream respectively downstream from it.

41. Method of handling products, in particular horticultural or agricultural products such as fruits and vegetables, flower bulbs and rounded food products, the method comprising conveying products with the product handling system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, and performing one or more of the following actions:- orienting the products to a target orientation (715) by applying speed differences between the first belt conveyor, second belt conveyor and third conveyor belt or roller mechanism,- discharging products from the product handling system by moving the first and second belt conveyor of one or more of the product conveyor devices away from one another, thereby creating a gap (1016) through which the product is discharged,- grading products on the basis of one or more product parameters, such as size, colour, shape, rot or another product parameter, by: o recording images of the products with the at least one camera and / or detecting a product parameter with the at least one sensor, in particular while rotating the products by applying speed differences between the first belt conveyor, second belt conveyor and third conveyor belt or roller mechanism of a product conveyor device, and processing the scanned images or recorded product parameter(s) with the control unit to determine whether a product complies with a first qualifying criterion or a second qualifying criterion, o moving the first and second belt conveyor of a first product conveyor device away from one another in case the product complies with the first qualifying criterion, and o moving the first and second lower belt conveyor of a second product conveyor device away from one another in case the product complies with the second qualifying criterion,- dividing an incoming stream of products into two or more outgoing streams of products by moving the first and second belt conveyor of one product conveyor device away from one another for a subset of the incoming products and discharging said products of said subset to a lower conveyor and conveying the other products of the incoming stream entirely through the product handling system42. Method according to the preceding claim, wherein the product handling system comprises multiple product conveyor devices placed in series, wherein the method further comprises performing one or more of the following actions:- grouping the products into groups (717) by applying speed differences between product conveyor devices,- converting an incoming stream of products having a variable pitch distance into an outgoing stream of products having a more uniform pitch distance, in particular for feeding the products to a downstream conveyor or packaging machine such as a flowpack device, topseal device, shrink wrapping device or a thermoformer machine or to a fruit loading robot by applying speed differences between product conveyor devices,- buffering the products by positioning multiple products close together by applying speed differences between product conveyor devices,43. Method according to the preceding claim, wherein each product conveyor device partially orients the product so that consecutive product conveyor devices fully orient the product in a joint operation to a target orientation, or wherein each product conveyor device fully orients the product to a target orientation, and wherein in both situations a plurality of orienting devices simultaneously orient a plurality of products.

44. Method according to any one of the preceding method claims, further comprising labelling and / or laser marking the product after the product is oriented to the target orientation.

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