Gripper for industrial slicer, slicer and method of slicing objects

Abstract

The invention relates to an industrial slicer device (100a-g) with a holding and / or positioning unit (10a-g) for at least holding and / or positioning an object (12a-g) to be sliced ​​relative to a cutting unit (14a-g) which can cut the object (12a-g) into a plurality of slices (16a-g), wherein the holding and / or positioning unit (10a-g) has a plurality of claw elements (18a-g, 20a-g, 30a-g, 32a-g) which are provided to pierce a surface (22a-g) of the object (12a-g) and penetrate the object (12a-g) in order to generate a claw force holding the object (12a-g) on ​​the holding and / or positioning unit (10a-g).It is proposed that the holding and / or positioning unit (10a-g) has at least one claw carrier element (26a-g) that is translationally and / or rotationally deflectable relative to a base (24a-g) of the holding and / or positioning unit (10a-g), on the surface (28a-g) of which several of the claw elements (18b-g, 20b-g) are arranged and / or which forms several of the claw elements (18a, 20a) in one piece, wherein a claw direction (34a-g) of at least one part of these claw elements (18a-g, 20a-g) of the claw carrier element (26a-g) is angled to a principal extension plane (36a-g) of the claw carrier element (26a-g).

Description

State of the art

[0001] The invention relates to an industrial slicer device according to the preamble of claim 1, an industrial slicer according to claim 29 and a method according to the preamble of claim 30.

[0002] Industrial food slicer devices have already been proposed, comprising a holding and / or positioning unit for at least holding and / or positioning an object to be sliced ​​relative to a cutting unit which can divide the object into a multitude of slices, wherein the holding and / or positioning unit has a multitude of claw elements which are designed to pierce a surface of the object and penetrate the object in order to generate a claw force holding the object to the holding and / or positioning unit.

[0003] The object of the invention is, in particular, to provide a generic device with advantageous properties for holding the objects, preferably with a view to reducing the amount of object residue after slicing. This object is achieved according to the invention by the features of claim 1 and the dependent claims, while advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention can be found in the sub-claims. Advantages of the invention

[0004] The invention relates to an industrial slicer device, in particular an industrial food slicer device, with a holding and / or positioning unit for at least holding and / or positioning an object to be sliced, preferably a food to be sliced, such as, for example, a cheese product, a sausage product, a meat product, a fish product or a baked good, relative to a cutting unit which can divide the object into a plurality of slices, wherein the holding and / or positioning unit has a plurality of claw elements which are provided to pierce a surface of the object and penetrate the object in order to generate a claw force holding the object to the holding and / or positioning unit.

[0005] It is proposed that the holding and / or positioning unit comprises at least one claw support element, which is translationally and / or rotationally deflectable relative to a base of the holding and / or positioning unit and is in particular at least substantially planar in form, on the surface of which several claw elements are arranged, preferably in a positionally and orientationally fixed manner, and / or which forms several of the claw elements in one piece, preferably monolithically, wherein a claw direction of at least a portion of these claw elements of the claw support element is angled to a principal extension plane of the claw support element. This allows for advantageous object retention relative to the cutting unit. Advantageously, the yield, in particular the number of slices per sliced / cut object, can be maximized.Particularly with food products, this can advantageously reduce food waste, especially by enabling smaller / shorter end pieces. This can advantageously improve the yield per item. Especially with expensive foods or in large-scale plants that slice many kilometers of cheese or sausage every day, even small differences in end piece size have a significant impact. The invention advantageously achieves a comparatively high gripping force with a comparatively shallow penetration depth into the product. The yield increase can be advantageously achieved while maintaining high operational reliability, particularly because the holding and / or positioning unit according to the invention minimizes the risk of unintentionally losing the product despite the shallow penetration depth.Advantageously, the design of the holding and / or positioning unit according to the invention allows for reliable, reproducible and / or simple ejection of the end pieces.

[0006] An industrial slicer is preferably at least one component of a specialized machine or system, in particular an industrial slicer, designed to automatically and precisely slice objects into uniform slices or sections in large quantities and at high speed. Industrial slicers can be used in various industries, for example, in plastics, wood, or metal processing. However, the present invention preferably relates to an industrial slicer for slicing food products, in particular cheese products, sausages and their vegetarian / vegan substitutes, meat products, fish or fish products, and / or baked goods. Industrial slicers are preferably designed for continuous operation in industrial production environments. Industrial slicers differ significantly from household slicers, such as...The device is designed to function like bread slicers and / or deli slicers, such as those found in butcher shops, etc. Industrial slicing devices are preferably made of easy-to-clean and / or wear-resistant materials, such as stainless metals, particularly to ensure high hygiene and / or safety. The holding and / or positioning unit is specifically designed to make direct contact with the object. Objects held by the holding and / or positioning unit preferably follow all movements of the unit as long as contact with the object is maintained. "Designed" is understood to mean specifically programmed, designed, and / or equipped.The fact that an object is intended for a specific function should be understood in particular to mean that the object fulfills and / or performs this specific function in at least one application and / or operating state.

[0007] The cutting unit is, in particular, separate from and / or differently configured from the holding and / or positioning unit. The cutting unit specifically represents a further industrial slicing device of the industrial slicer, separate from the industrial slicing device described herein. Alternatively, however, it is also conceivable that the cutting unit is an integral part of the industrial slicing device described herein. The cutting unit can comprise different blade units or cutting heads, for example, one or more circular blades, one or more spiral blades, in particular with variable radii, one or more shearing heads, one or more knife blades, or one or more band saw units. A slice is, in particular, a thin, flat section of an object produced by cutting or dividing the object.A claw element is preferably a physical component that functions similarly to a claw or a hook in form and function. In particular, the claw element generates a claw force when it interacts with an object gripped by the claw element. The claw force generated by the claw element, which holds the object to the holding and / or positioning unit, is preferably greater than the weight force acting on the object, at least in the horizontal state. In particular, the holding and / or positioning unit has three or more, preferably five or more, advantageously seven or more, more preferably ten or more, and most preferably 20 or more claw elements. In particular, the holding and / or positioning unit has fewer than one hundred, preferably fewer than 50 claw elements. Alternatively, however, numbers outside the aforementioned limits are also conceivable.The claw elements are specifically designed to hold and precisely position the object by penetrating its surface. The claw elements are preferably designed such that their free ends are sharp and / or pointed enough to penetrate the object's material. This penetration preferably creates a direct mechanical connection between the claw elements and the object.

[0008] The claw force generated by the penetration of the claw elements into the object preferably ensures that the object remains firmly fixed to the holding or positioning unit, particularly even when the holding and / or positioning unit is moved. This fixation preferably prevents movement or slippage of the object during subsequent processes, such as slicing or transport. The claw force typically acts orthogonally and / or obliquely to the surface of the object to prevent slippage or detachment. The claw force is preferably generated by a gripping and clamping effect of the claw elements. The claw support element is preferably a flat component that serves as a carrier for the claw elements. The claw support element provides, in particular, a stable platform on which the claw elements are arranged. The claw support element preferably has a largely flat surface.The flat surface forms, in particular, a contact surface for the pierced surface of the object. The claw elements are arranged at least substantially uniformly on the flat surface of the claw carrier element. The positions and orientations of the claw elements on the claw carrier element are preferably fixed, especially to ensure consistent functionality. The claw carrier element is preferably movable linearly along one or more axes relative to the base of the holding and / or positioning unit. The claw carrier element is preferably displaceable relative to the base of the holding and / or positioning unit. Alternatively or additionally, the claw carrier element can be rotated and / or pivoted relative to the base of the holding and / or positioning unit, for example, about a rotation axis projecting perpendicularly from the flat surface.It is conceivable that the claw support element is only linearly displaceable, only pivotable, only rotatable, or capable of a combination of translational and rotational movements. The base, in particular, forms a stable reference point from which the claw support element executes its movements. The base is preferably rigidly connected to a frame of a machine containing the industrial slicer device, especially the industrial slicer itself, or to the working environment. The claw elements can be mounted on the claw support element, e.g., screwed, welded, glued, etc., or formed directly by the claw support element. "One-piece" is understood to mean, in particular, a material bond, such as through a welding and / or bonding process, etc., and especially advantageously, a single-piece forming, such as by manufacturing from a single casting and / or by manufacturing in a sheet metal stamping and bending process.

[0009] A "principal extent plane" of a component is understood to be, in particular, a plane that is parallel to a major side face of the smallest imaginary cuboid that just completely encloses the component, and especially one that passes through the center of the cuboid. The principal extent plane of the claw support element is a principal extent plane of the surface on which the claw elements are attached or formed. The principal extent plane of the claw support element is a principal extent plane of the surface surrounding the claw elements. The principal extent plane of the claw support element is parallel to the surface surrounding the claw elements. The claw direction is preferably the orientation of the claw elements with respect to a plane or structure on which they are attached, i.e., in particular, the claw support element / the surface of the claw support element.The claw direction preferably indicates the direction in which the claw elements exert a force penetrating the surface of the object and / or the direction in which the claw elements act when grasping, penetrating, or holding the object. The claw direction is, in particular, the direction in which the tip or wedge of the claw element points. The angled claw direction is preferably not perpendicular to the surface of the claw support element and / or the principal plane of extension of the claw support element. The angled claw direction is preferably not parallel to the surface of the claw support element and / or the principal plane of extension of the claw support element. Preferably, the claw direction is oriented at a fixed angle or an angle that varies along the claw element to the principal plane of extension of the claw support element / the surface of the claw support element surrounding the claw elements.The angle particularly influences how deeply the claw elements penetrate the object's material (the steeper the angle relative to the main plane of extension, the deeper the penetration) and / or how securely the object is held (the shallower the penetration, the less stable the hold). To achieve the shortest possible end piece, an optimal balance between penetration depth and stable hold is sought. If the main plane of extension of the claw support element is assumed to be horizontal, an angled claw direction can mean that the claw elements point downwards at an angle. Alternatively or additionally, the claw elements can also point to the left, to the lower left, to the right, or to the lower right. This exerts force in such a way that the object is simultaneously fixed and slightly pressed downwards, thus ensuring stability.The angle of an angled claw element is, in particular, an angle between a principal extension plane of the claw element and the principal extension plane of the claw support element. Preferably, all claw elements of the slicer device are designed to penetrate the same surface of the object / to interact with only a single side of the object.

[0010] Furthermore, it is proposed that at least one of the claw elements of the claw carrier element permanently projects at least 5 mm, preferably at least 6 mm, and preferably at least 8 mm vertically beyond the surface of the claw carrier element surrounding the claw element. This advantageously allows for a good holding force, which is particularly sufficient for the functions of the holding and / or positioning unit. Advantageously, a large number of claw elements per area can be accommodated on the claw carrier element. Preferably, all claw elements of the claw carrier element permanently project at least 4 mm, preferably at least 6 mm, and preferably at least 8 mm vertically beyond the surface of the claw carrier element surrounding all claw elements. The vertical projection is formed, in particular, by the greatest perpendicular / orthogonal distance of a point of a claw element from the surface of the claw carrier element.

[0011] Furthermore, it is proposed that none of the claw elements of the claw carrier element protrude more than 10 mm, preferably more than 8 mm, perpendicularly beyond the surface of the claw carrier element surrounding the claw element. This advantageously allows for particularly short object end pieces, thereby saving costs and reducing food waste. The contour length of the claw elements in cross-section can be greater than the perpendicular projection of the claw elements. For example, a contour length of approximately 10 mm at an angle of 60° results in a perpendicular projection of approximately 7.6 mm. In this exemplary case, the perpendicular penetration depth is therefore 7.6 mm, while the total penetration length (oblique penetration depth) is then 10 mm.

[0012] Furthermore, it is proposed that the principal extension planes of the claw elements of the claw support element be inclined to the principal extension plane of the claw support element. This advantageously allows for a low perpendicular penetration depth while simultaneously achieving a sufficiently high claw force / holding force for holding and / or positioning the object. The principal extension planes of the claw elements can be partially or entirely parallel to each other. For example, two groups of claw elements are conceivable, each with principal extension planes running parallel to each other within the groups, but whose principal extension planes are different, e.g., opposite to each other. The two groups of claw elements could then each be arranged on different, mutually movable claw support elements. It is also conceivable that a large proportion of the principal extension planes of the claw elements are not parallel to each other (e.g.,a ring arrangement of the claw elements or a spiral arrangement of the claw elements). "Oblique" is in particular different from parallel and different from perpendicular.

[0013] Additionally, it is proposed that the angles between the principal extension planes of the claw elements of the claw support element and the principal extension plane of the claw support element, and / or the angles between the claw directions of the claw elements of the claw support element and the principal extension plane of the claw support element, are less than 70°, preferably less than 60°, and / or that the angles between the principal extension planes of the claw elements of the claw support element and the principal extension plane of the claw support element, and / or the angles between the claw directions of the claw elements of the claw support element and the principal extension plane of the claw support element, are greater than 20°, preferably greater than 30°. This advantageously allows for sufficient claw action while maintaining the lowest possible vertical penetration depth.

[0014] Furthermore, it is proposed that the claw elements be arranged in several parallel rows and / or columns on the claw support element. This advantageously optimizes the number of claw elements per area on the claw support element. It also allows for a simple design and easy redesign of the claw support element. Advantageously, a particularly high number of claw elements can be accommodated on a single claw support element. The claw elements of a row or column can be interlocked (like a saw blade), i.e., equipped with points that alternately point in opposite directions. This advantageously increases the holding force against lateral shear forces.Particularly when spiral knives are used as a cutting unit, a horizontal and a vertical component of a cutting force can arise, so that it can be particularly advantageous with spiral knives if a claw element, preferably a holding and / or positioning unit (a collet), can absorb both force components.

[0015] It is further proposed that the claw elements be arranged in a spiral pattern, a ring pattern, or in several, preferably concentric, spiral and / or ring patterns on the claw carrier element. This allows advantageous properties to be achieved with regard to the compactness and / or the holding force that can be generated by the claw carrier element. The tips of the ring- or spirally arranged claw elements point essentially in the direction of, or against the direction of, the ring or spiral shape.

[0016] If the claw support element is mounted for translational movement only parallel to a principal plane of extension, a simple design can be advantageously provided. Clamping of the object can be advantageously achieved. In the case that the claw support element is mounted for translational movement only parallel to its principal plane of extension, the claw support element is not rotatable. In particular, the claw support element is mounted for translational movement in the direction in which the claw elements are angled relative to a perpendicular. Thus, if the claw elements are bent downwards, the claw support element in this case is only movable downwards and upwards, not forwards or backwards, and not to either side.However, it is also conceivable that the claw support element is translationally movable in directions other than the bending direction of the claw elements, for example, if the claw elements are slightly bent laterally. If the holding and / or positioning unit has another claw support element, this is preferably also mounted translationally movable parallel to, or only parallel to, the main extension plane of the claw support element and / or to a main extension plane of the other claw support element. Preferably, in this case, the two claw support elements are mounted translationally movable towards each other (closing and / or pinching direction) and away from each other (opening and / or releasing direction).

[0017] Alternatively or additionally, it is proposed that the claw support element be mounted so as to be rotatably movable, particularly only about a pivot axis that runs at least substantially parallel to a principal extension plane of the claw support element. This advantageously allows for a compact design. It also advantageously optimizes the gripping of the object. If the claw support element is mounted so as to be pivotable only, it is not translationally movable. If the holding and / or positioning unit has another claw support element, this is preferably also mounted so as to be pivotable or only so as to be translationally movable about the principal extension plane of the claw support element and / or about a principal extension plane of the other claw support element.In particular, the pivotable claw support elements are mounted in such a way that the surfaces of the claw support elements, especially the claw elements, can be pivoted towards or away from an object surface.

[0018] Alternatively or additionally, it is also proposed that the claw support element be mounted so as to be rotatably movable about an axis of rotation that extends at least substantially perpendicular to a principal plane of extension of the claw support element. This advantageously allows for a compact design. It also advantageously optimizes the gripping of the object. In the case that the claw support element is mounted so as to be rotatably movable, it is not translationally movable. If the holding and / or positioning unit has another claw support element, this is preferably also mounted so as to be rotatably movable (only or additionally) about the axis of rotation or another axis of rotation that is at least substantially perpendicular to a principal plane of extension of the other claw support element.In particular, the rotatably movable claw support elements are mounted such that their surfaces, especially the claw elements themselves, can be moved in circular or spiral paths in a plane parallel to the object surface. Generally, several of the following types of movement can also be combined: translational and parallel displacement relative to the principal plane of extension of the claw support elements, pivoting about a pivot axis parallel to the principal plane of extension of the claw support elements, and rotation about a rotation axis perpendicular to the principal plane of extension of the claw support elements.

[0019] Furthermore, it is proposed that the holding and / or positioning unit comprises at least one further claw support element, which is translationally and / or rotationally deflectable relative to the base of the holding and / or positioning unit and, in particular, is formed at least substantially planar. Several claw elements are arranged on the surface of this further claw support element, preferably fixed in position and orientation, and / or it forms several claw elements integrally. A claw direction of at least some of these claw elements of the further claw support element is angled to a principal extension plane of the further claw support element. This advantageously allows a holding force to be further improved with the smallest possible vertical penetration depth. Advantageously, this also allows the object to be squeezed between the claw elements of the two movably mounted claw support elements.The additional claw support element can be designed to be at least substantially identical to the first claw support element and, in particular, can be arranged in a mirror image of the first claw support element. The additional claw support element can be designed and / or arranged in a mirror-symmetrical manner to the first claw support element. Alternatively, the additional claw support element can also be designed differently from the first claw support element. It is conceivable that the additional claw support element has claw elements of the same type, uniform shape, and / or the same number as the first claw support element. Alternatively, the additional claw support element can also have claw elements of a different type, a different shape, and / or a different number than the first claw support element.It is conceivable that the claw elements of the two claw support elements are arranged offset from one another, so that when the two claw support elements move towards each other, they at least partially move laterally past each other. Alternatively or additionally, when the two claw support elements move towards each other, the claw elements of the two claw support elements can also move directly towards each other. In particular, the further claw support element is mounted so that it moves in the opposite direction to the first claw support element. In particular, the further claw support element is movable towards the first claw support element. In particular, two claw support elements, each mounted so that they are only movable translationally parallel to a principal extension plane of the claw support element, are movable towards each other along parallel linear directions of movement.In particular, two claw support elements, each rotatably mounted only about an axis of rotation extending at least substantially perpendicular to a principal plane of extension of the claw support element, are rotatable in opposite directions of rotation, so that the claw elements of these claw support elements move towards each other on circular or spiral paths, at least substantially. This advantageously allows the object to be crushed between the claw elements of the two claw support elements.

[0020] In this context, it is proposed that the further claw support element be mounted in such a way that it is movable relative to the claw support element, in particular mounted in a coupled manner, such that when or after the claw elements of the two claw support elements penetrate the object, a crushing of object material of the object can be generated.

[0021] This allows for a suitably high holding force for the object with the shallowest possible vertical penetration depth. In particular, the object material is crushed between the claw elements that have penetrated the object. Preferably, the two claw support elements are coupled to each other (mechanically, e.g., via a gear mechanism) such that a movement of one claw support element causes an opposing movement of the other. Alternatively, however, it is also conceivable that one of the claw support elements is movable and the other is rigid / immovable.

[0022] Furthermore, it is proposed that the principal extension planes of the claw elements of the additional claw support element are inclined in opposite directions to the principal extension planes of the claw elements of the claw support element. This optimizes the crushing of the object material between the claw elements. In particular, a high degree of object material crushing per unit of claw support element travel can be achieved. Specifically, the principal extension planes of at least a large proportion of the claw elements of the additional claw support element are inclined at the same angle to the principal extension plane of the additional claw support element as at least a large proportion of the principal extension planes of the claw elements of the claw support element, with one angular direction of the respective principal extension planes preferably being reversed.In particular, the main extension planes of at least a large proportion of the claw elements of the further claw support element intersect in a region located in front of the surfaces of the claw support elements bearing the claw elements. Specifically, the main extension planes of at least a large proportion of the claw elements of the further claw support element intersect in a region facing the surfaces bearing the claw elements. Specifically, the claw directions of the claw elements (all) are designed and / or arranged facing an imaginary median plane of the holding and / or positioning unit that is perpendicular to the surfaces bearing the claw elements. Alternatively, however, it is also conceivable that at least some claw elements have claw directions that point away from the median plane. With such claw elements, elongation of the object material could be achieved instead of compression.In particular, the surfaces of the claw carrier elements on which the claw elements are arranged or formed are at least substantially parallel to each other. "Substantially parallel" here refers in particular to an alignment of a direction relative to a reference direction, especially in a plane, wherein the direction has a deviation from the reference direction of preferably less than 8°, advantageously less than 5°, and particularly advantageously less than 2°.

[0023] Furthermore, it is proposed that the claw support element and the other claw support element be free of mutual interference and / or nesting. This advantageously allows for a simple design.

[0024] Alternatively, it is proposed that the claw support element and the further claw support element be nested within the holding and / or positioning unit, preferably in a common surface plane formed by the surfaces of the claw support elements that each have the claw elements. This advantageously allows for a compact design. A particularly high clamping force can also be achieved, especially with small movements of the claw support elements. The claw support element and the further claw support element can be nested linearly in one plane (e.g., like two interlocking combs), concentrically in one plane (e.g., two interlocking rings), or spirally (two interlocking spirals).

[0025] If at least some, preferably all, of the claw elements are designed with a three-dimensional taper, penetration into the object's surface can be advantageously optimized. The gripping process can also be advantageously simplified and / or improved. The term "three-dimensional taper" describes, in particular, a shape or structure that tapers gradually in three dimensions (length, width, and height) to a point or edge. This taper can be symmetrical or asymmetrical, depending on the shape's geometry. Specifically, the cross-section of a three-dimensionally tapered object becomes progressively smaller until the object terminates in a point that is at least substantially point-like. Alternatively, at least some, preferably all, of the claw elements could be designed with a two-dimensional taper.In particular, the contour of a two-dimensionally tapered object becomes progressively smaller until the object ends in an edge that is at least essentially point-like (also called wedge shape).

[0026] If at least some of the three-dimensionally tapered claw elements, preferably all claw elements, have at least two separate points, the clawing effect can be advantageously improved. Advantageously, the total number of claw-acting elements per surface can be increased. Advantageously, a simple design can be achieved. The two points of a claw element could be straight / parallel to each other or slightly angled towards or away from each other. If the two points of a claw element are slightly angled towards or away from each other, this could advantageously at least partially absorb shear forces that may occur during slicing. This could advantageously reduce the risk of lateral slippage of the object during slicing. The claw elements could also each have three or more separate points.

[0027] If at least one tip of a portion of the three-dimensionally tapered claw elements is asymmetrically tapered and / or bent laterally, shear forces that may occur during slicing can be advantageously absorbed, at least partially. This could advantageously reduce the risk of the object slipping laterally during slicing.

[0028] Furthermore, it is proposed that at least some, preferably all, of the claw elements be shaped at least substantially sickle-shaped and / or at least substantially hook-shaped. This allows for a particularly advantageous clawing action. Advantageously, a high clawing force can be achieved with the smallest possible vertical penetration depth. A sickle-shaped form is, in particular, a concavely curved geometry, typically characterized by a continuous curve on at least one side with a pointed or narrow end. A hook-shaped form is, in particular, characterized by an arcuate or curved geometry in which a point faces to one side. In particular, at least some of the claw elements are shaped like cat claws.A cat's claw shape is, in particular, a three-dimensionally tapered, slightly to strongly curved structure that is preferably used for both hooking and targeted penetration of materials. The cat's claw shape is also used in engineering, including in surgical instruments.

[0029] Alternatively or additionally, it is proposed that at least some of the claw elements, preferably all claw elements, have at least substantially the shape of an oblique pyramid, preferably with an apex located outside a pyramid base. This allows for a particularly advantageous clawing effect. Advantageously, a high clawing force can be achieved with the smallest possible vertical penetration depth. An oblique pyramid describes, in particular, a pyramid shape whose apex (vertex) is not located vertically above a center point of the pyramid base, but is offset laterally to it. The pyramid base is preferably an N-sided polygon, where N is preferably 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7. However, other N values ​​are also conceivable.

[0030] Alternatively or additionally, it is proposed that at least the claw elements, which are formed integrally, preferably monolithically, with the claw support element, are formed by tabs, in particular sheet metal tabs, bent out from the main plane of extension of the claw support element. This advantageously allows for a simple and / or stable construction. In particular, the claw support element is, at least in this case, designed as a stamped and bent sheet metal part. The stamped and bent sheet metal part can, for example, be made from a 3 mm thick sheet. Other sheet thicknesses are, of course, also conceivable. In particular, the claw support element(s), preferably the claw elements of the claw support elements, are, in this case, designed in a planing-like manner / similar to a planer blade / similar to the rasping teeth of a cheese slicer.The planer-like claw elements are preferably tapered, wedge-shaped elevations with sharp, asymmetrical edges, which are arranged, for example in a regular grid, slightly inclined forward on the claw support element, preferably protruding from the surface of the claw support element.

[0031] It is further proposed that an opening penetrating the claw support element be formed adjacent to at least one of the claw elements, preferably each claw element, particularly for the removal of object residues from previously gripped objects. This advantageously achieves high operational reliability (low risk of clogging) and / or high hygiene (low residue / self-cleaning). Furthermore, it advantageously improves cleanability. In particular, each of the aforementioned claw element shapes can be equipped with the adjacent opening. Each or some claw element of one of the claw support elements can have its own dedicated opening. An opening, or each opening of one of the claw support elements, can extend across or be assigned to several claw elements.At least some or all of the openings of one of the claw support elements are completely enclosed / bounded by the surface of the claw support element. Preferably, the opening is arranged on a side of the base of a claw element in which a claw direction of the claw element also points. In particular, the opening is arranged in the direction of a tip of the claw element. Specifically, the opening is located in a region of the claw element, especially the base of the claw element, where the crushing of the object's material mainly takes place.

[0032] Furthermore, it is proposed that the industrial slicer device includes a (mechanical) ejector unit designed to reliably detach the object, or a remnant of the object sliced ​​by the cutting unit, from the holding and / or positioning unit, preferably from the claw elements, by means of a forceful impact. This advantageously achieves high operational reliability (low risk of clogging) and / or high hygiene (low residue). The ejector unit is specifically designed to make contact with a surface of the object held by the claw elements, particularly the surface of the object pierced by the claw elements, and to push this surface away from the surface of the claw support element(s). The forceful impact is preferably abrupt / jerk.The impact movement preferably results in the object being ejected, preferably in a defined and reproducible manner, from the holding and / or positioning unit. The impact movement is designed to throw / guide the object's remains into a designated container within the industrial slicer using the industrial slicing device.

[0033] In this context, it is further proposed that the ejector unit has at least one or more plunger elements which can be extended between the two claw carrier elements, and / or that the ejector unit has at least one or more plunger elements which can be extended and retracted between adjacent claw elements of the claw carrier element and / or above or below one of the claw carrier elements. This advantageously allows for the effective ejection of the object remnant, preferably without causing the object remnant to break. Advantageously, this allows for the complete ejection of the object remnant.

[0034] Furthermore, it is proposed that the industrial slicer device include a gear unit designed to couple deflection movements of the claw carrier element with extension and retraction movements of the plunger element or plungers, specifically such that a movement of the claw carrier element intended to create internal crushing of the object and / or to hold the object in place results in the plunger element or plungers being retracted, and / or a movement of the claw carrier element intended to release internal crushing of the object and / or to release the object is resulting in the plunger element or plungers being extended. This advantageously achieves a high level of operational reliability. In addition, a high cycle rate for the industrial slicer can be advantageously achieved.The gear unit preferably has an interface to a drive unit, which is designed to generate kinetic energy for the translational and / or rotational deflection movements of the claw carrier element, either motorized, pneumatically, or hydraulically. The gear unit is preferably designed to translate this kinetic energy into movements of the claw carrier elements, thus transferring a portion of the kinetic energy to the object. The resulting compression of the object, particularly of the object material, is approximately 2 mm, but could also be more or less.

[0035] Furthermore, it is proposed that the claw carrier element has at least one recess, in particular a circumferentially closed one, which is provided for the passage of the plunger element or several plunger elements. This advantageously allows for a particularly compact design of the industrial slicer device, especially the ejector unit and the holding and / or positioning unit.

[0036] Furthermore, an industrial slicer is proposed, comprising a cutting unit for slicing objects and a movement mechanism on which the industrial slicer device is mounted. This movement mechanism is designed to move the slicer device at least one-dimensionally / linearly towards the object, thus establishing a connection between the slicer device and the object. This allows for advantageous positioning of the object relative to the cutting unit. Advantageously, this maximizes yield, particularly the number of slices per sliced ​​object. Especially with food products, it advantageously reduces food waste, particularly by enabling the production of smaller / shorter end pieces. The movement mechanism can include the drive unit.The movement mechanism can include a linear guide for moving the industrial slicer device, particularly in the direction of the objects and / or the cutting unit. Alternatively, movement mechanisms for multidimensional movement of the industrial slicer device are also conceivable. Furthermore, the industrial slicer can include a conveying system, such as a conveyor belt, by means of which the object can be moved relative to the industrial slicer device and / or relative to the cutting unit.

[0037] Furthermore, a method for slicing objects, preferably for slicing foodstuffs such as, among others, cheese products, sausages, meat products, fish products, or baked goods, using an industrial slicer is proposed, wherein the object is held by the industrial slicer device and / or preferably positioned relative to a cutting unit, at least during the slicing process. This allows for advantageous fixation of the object relative to the cutting unit.

[0038] Advantageously, the slice yield per object can be maximized. Advantageously, food waste can be reduced.

[0039] The industrial slicer device, the industrial slicer, and the method according to the invention are not limited to the application and embodiment described above. In particular, the industrial slicer device, the industrial slicer, and the method according to the invention may, to achieve a functionality described herein, comprise a different number of individual elements, components, and units than that specified herein. Drawings

[0040] Further advantages become apparent from the following description of the drawings. The drawings illustrate seven exemplary embodiments of the invention. The drawings, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination. A person skilled in the art will expediently consider the features individually and combine them into meaningful further combinations.

[0041] They show: Fig. 1 a schematic representation of an industrial slicer with an industrial slicing device, Fig. 2 a schematic perspective representation of the industrial slicing device with a holding and / or positioning unit, Fig. 3a a schematic side view of claw carrier elements of the industrial slicing device with several claw elements, Fig. 3b a schematic front view of a part of one of the claw carrier elements, Fig. 3c a schematic front view of a part of the claw carrier element with a slightly curved claw element, Fig. 4 a schematic flowchart of a method for slicing objects using the industrial slicer, Fig. 5 a schematic perspective representation of a first alternative industrial slicing device, Fig. 6 a schematic side view of the first alternative industrial slicing device, Fig.Fig. 7 a schematic perspective view of a second alternative industrial slicer device, Fig. 8 a schematic perspective view of a third alternative industrial slicer device, Fig. 9 a schematic side view of a fourth alternative industrial slicer device, Fig. 10 a schematic front view of a fifth alternative industrial slicer device and Fig. 11 a schematic side view of a sixth alternative industrial slicer device. Description of the exemplary implementations

[0042] The Figure 1Figure 96a schematically shows an industrial slicer 96a. The industrial slicer 96a is a food slicer. The industrial slicer 96a is designed for slicing objects 12a, such as cheese products, sausages, meat products, fish products, or baked goods loaves, into slices 16a. The industrial slicer 96a has a receiving area 102a for receiving the object 12a. The receiving area 102a includes, for example, a conveyor belt 104a for moving the object 12a within the receiving area 102a. The receiving area 102a can be pivotable (see the figure in the Fig. 1 (double arrow 106a shown). The industrial slicer 96a has a cutting unit 14a. The cutting unit 14a is designed to cut the object 12a into slices 16a. The cutting unit 14a includes a blade for cutting the object 12a into the slices 16a. The cutting unit 14a is movable towards and away from the object 12a (see the illustration in the Fig. 1(double arrow 108a shown). The industrial slicer 96a has an industrial slicer device 100a. The industrial slicer device 100a comprises a holding and / or positioning unit 10a. The holding and / or positioning unit 10a forms a clamping jaw. The clamping jaw is designed to grip / clamp the object 12a. The holding and / or positioning unit 10a is designed to hold and / or position the object 12a to be sliced ​​relative to the cutting unit 14a. The industrial slicer 96a has a movement mechanism 98a. The industrial slicer device 100a is arranged on the movement mechanism 98a. The industrial slicer device 100a is attached to the movement mechanism 98a. The movement mechanism 98a is designed to move the industrial slicer device 100a at least one-dimensionally and / or linearly.The movement mechanism 98a is at least designed to move the industrial slicer device 100a towards the object 12a in at least one dimension and / or linearly in order to establish a (gripping) connection between the holding and / or positioning unit 10a of the slicer device 100a and the object 12a (cf. the in the . Fig. 1(double arrow 110a shown). The motion mechanism 98a has a drive unit 112a. Besides generating the linear motion of the industrial slicer device 100a, the drive unit 112a is designed to couple with an input of a gear unit 92a of the industrial slicer device 100a in order to drive internal movements of the industrial slicer device 100a, for example, movements of components of the holding and / or positioning unit 10a, such as its claw carrier elements 26a, 64a. The industrial slicer device 100a has the gear unit 92a. The gear unit 92a is interposed between the holding and / or positioning unit 10a and the motion mechanism 98a.

[0043] The Figure 2Figure 1 shows a schematic perspective view of the industrial slicer device 100a. The industrial slicer device 100a is an industrial food slicer device. The holding and / or positioning unit 10a has a claw support element 26a. The holding and / or positioning unit 10a has a base 24a. The base 24a includes the gear unit 92a. The base 24a includes a structural frame 114a that accommodates the gear unit 92a. The claw support element 26a is translationally deflectable relative to the base 24a. The claw support element 26a is planar. The claw support element 26a is only parallel to a principal extension plane 36a (see Figure 100a). Fig. 3aThe claw support element 26a is mounted for translational movement. The holding and / or positioning unit 10a has a further claw support element 64a. This further claw support element 64a is deflectable translationally relative to the base 24a. The translational deflections of the claw support elements 26a and 64a are generated by the gear unit 92a, which is driven by the drive unit 112a. The further claw support element 64a is a flat surface. The further claw support element 64a is mounted for translational movement only parallel to the main extension plane 36a of the claw support element 26a. The claw support element 26a and the further claw support element 64a are free of mutual interference and / or interlocking. For example, the claw carrier element 26a or the claw carrier elements 26a, 64a together have an area of ​​approximately 90 mm x 90 mm, which corresponds approximately to typical maximum sizes of objects 12a and slices 16a.However, larger or smaller dimensions of the claw carrier elements 26a, 64a are also conceivable.

[0044] Each of the claw carrier elements 26a, 64a has a plurality of claw elements 18a, 20a, 30a, 32a. The claw elements 18a, 20a, 30a, 32a are designed to generate a claw force that holds the object 12a to the holding and / or positioning unit 10a by forming a surface 22a (see figure). Fig. 1) of object 12a and penetrate into object 12a. The claw elements 18a, 20a, 30a, 32a of each of the claw support elements 26a, 64a are each arranged in several parallel rows 54a. The claw elements 18a, 20a, 30a, 32a of each of the claw support elements 26a, 64a are each arranged in several parallel columns 56a. The claw support elements 26a, 64a each form the corresponding claw elements 18a, 20a, 30a, 32a in one piece. The claw elements 18a, 20a, 30a, 32a are monolithic with the respective claw support element 26a, 64a. The claw elements 18a, 20a, 30a, 32a, which are formed in one piece with the claw carrier elements 26a, 64a, are formed by sheet metal tabs that extend from the respective main extension planes 36a, 68a (cf. Fig. 3a) of the respective claw support element 26a, 64a are bent outwards. The further claw support element 64a is mounted so that it can move relative to the claw support element 26a, in particular so that it is coupled to the gear unit 92a, such that when or after the claw elements 18a, 20a, 30a, 32a of the two claw support elements 26a, 64a penetrate the object 12a, a crushing of object material of the object 12a is produced.

[0045] The industrial slicer device 100a has an ejector unit 88a. The ejector unit 88a is designed to reliably detach remnants of objects 12a, completely cut by the separating unit 14a, from the holding and / or positioning unit 10a by means of an impact movement. The ejector unit 88a is designed to detach the remnants of the objects 12a, completely cut by the separating unit 14a, from the claw elements 18a, 20a, 30a, 32a by means of an impact movement. The ejector unit 88a has several plunger elements 90a. Alternatively, only one plunger element 90a could be provided. The plunger elements 90a can be extended and retracted between adjacent claw elements 18a, 20a of one of the claw support elements 26a, 64a. Each claw carrier element 26a, 64a has a circumferentially closed recess 94a for each plunger element 90a. Each of the recesses 94a is designed to accommodate the respective associated plunger element 90a.After passing through the respective recess 94a, the associated plunger element 90a projects substantially beyond the surface 22a, 66a of the respective claw carrier element 26a, 64a. The gear unit 92a is designed to couple a deflection movement of the claw carrier element 26a with extension and retraction movements of the plunger element 90a. The gear unit 92a couples the deflection movements of the claw carrier element 26a with the extension and retraction movements of the plunger element 90a in such a way that a movement of the claw carrier element 26a, which is intended to generate the internal crushing of the object 12a and / or the holding of the object 12a, leads to a retraction of the plunger element 90a, so that the plunger element 90a in this state (closed state of the claw carrier elements 26a, 64a) does not protrude beyond the surface 28a, 66a of the respective claw carrier element 26a, 64a.The gear unit 92a couples the deflection movements of the claw carrier element 26a with the extension and retraction movements of the plunger element 90a in such a way that a movement of the claw carrier element 26a, which is intended to release the internal compression of the object 12a and / or to cause the object 12a to be released, leads to an extension of the plunger element 90a, so that the plunger element 90a in this state (open state of the claw carrier elements 26a, 64a) protrudes beyond the surface 28a, 66a of the respective claw carrier element 26a, 64a and, if necessary, after the opening of the claw carrier elements 26a, 64a, removes / displaces any remnants of the object 12a still hanging in the claw elements 18a, 20a, 30a, 32a.

[0046] The Figure 3aFigure 1 shows a schematic side view of the claw support elements 26a, 64a with several claw elements 18a, 20a. The claw elements 18a, 20a each have a claw direction 34a. The claw direction 34a of the claw elements 18a, 20a of the claw support element 26a is angled to the principal extension plane 36a of the claw support element 26a. The principal extension planes 38a, 40a of the claw elements 18a, 20a of the claw support element 26a are each oblique to the principal extension plane 36a of the claw support element 26a. Angles 42a, 44a between the respective principal extension planes 38a, 40a of the claw elements 18a, 20a of the claw support element 26a and the principal extension plane 36a of the claw support element 26a are less than 60° and greater than 20° (preferably less than 60° and greater than 30°).Angles 46a, 48a between the claw directions 34a of the claw elements 18a, 20a of the claw support element 26a and the principal extension plane 36a of the claw support element 26a are also less than 70° and greater than 20° (preferably less than 60° and greater than 30°). Principal extension planes 70a, 72a of the claw elements 30a, 32a of the further claw support element 64a are each inclined in opposite directions to the principal extension planes 38a, 40a of the claw elements 18a, 20a of the claw support element 26a. The claw elements 18a, 20a have a perpendicular projection 50a over the surface 28a of the claw support element 26a that surrounds the respective claw elements 18a, 20a. The vertical projection 50a of the claw elements 18a, 20a of the claw support element 26a is permanently 4 mm or more (preferably 6 mm or more). The vertical projection 50a of the claw elements 18a, 20a of the claw support element 26a is permanently 10 mm or less (preferably 8 mm or less).For example, in the figures, all claw elements 18a, 20a, 30a, 32a always protrude approximately the same distance beyond the surrounding surface 22a of the associated claw support element 26a, 64a. Alternatively, however, it is also conceivable that at least some of the claw elements 18a, 20a, 30a, 32a deliberately protrude significantly less or significantly more vertically than other claw elements 18a, 20a, 30a, 32a.

[0047] The Figure 3bFigure 1 schematically shows a front view of a portion of the claw support element 26a with several claw elements 18a, 20a. The claw elements 18a, 20a are three-dimensionally tapered. Adjacent to each claw element 26a, 20a, 30a, 32a, and in particular establishing a connection with the associated claw support element 26a, 64a, the respective claw support element 26a, 64a has an opening 86a that penetrates the respective claw support element 26a, 64a. The opening 86a is designed for the removal of remnants of previously grasped objects 12a. The claw elements 18a, 20a, 30a, 32a, in particular in conjunction with the openings 86a, are shaped in a plane-like manner / similar to the rasp teeth of a plane.

[0048] The Figure 3cFigure 1 schematically shows a front view of part of the claw support element 26a with a slightly curved claw element 52a. The slightly curved claw element 52a includes a tip 78a that tapers to a point asymmetrically in three dimensions. The slightly curved claw element 52a includes a tip 78a that is bent slightly to the right laterally (when viewed from the front).

[0049] The Figure 4Figure 1 shows a schematic flowchart of a process for slicing objects 12a using the industrial slicer 96a. In at least one process step 116a, the object 12a is placed into the receiving area 102a. In at least one process step 118a, the object 12a is moved from the conveyor belt 104a to an initial position. In at least one further process step 120a, the receiving area 102a is tilted along the direction of the double arrow 106a. In at least one further process step 122a, the industrial slicer device 100a with the holding and / or positioning unit 10a is moved towards the object 12a. In at least one further process step 124a, the claw elements 18a, 20a, 30a, 32a penetrate the surface 22a of the object 12a and are moved translationally and / or rotationally in such a way that the object material of the object 12a is squeezed between the penetrated claw elements 18a, 20a, 30a, 32a.In at least one further process step 126a, the object 12a is processed by the cutting unit 14a and thereby divided into many slices 16a. During the division of the object 12a into the slices 16a by the cutting unit 14a of the industrial slicer 96a, the object 12a is held by the holding and / or positioning unit 10a of the industrial slicer device 100a. In at least one further process step 128a, the object 12a, while being held by the holding and / or positioning unit 10a, is moved towards the cutting unit 14a during the division process. In at least one further process step 130a, after the object 12a has been completely cut into slices 16a, the remainder of the object 12a is removed from the holding and / or positioning unit 10a by means of extending the plunger element 90a of the ejector unit 88a and is preferably selectively dropped.Subsequently, a new object 12a can be moved into the recording area 102a and the procedure described above begins again.

[0050] In the Figures 5 to 11 Six further embodiments of the invention are shown. The following descriptions and drawings are essentially limited to the differences between the embodiments, whereby, with regard to identically designated components, in particular components with the same reference numerals, reference is also generally made to the drawings and / or the description of the other embodiments, in particular the Figures 1 to 4 , can be referenced. To distinguish the embodiments, the letter a is the reference numeral of the embodiment in the Figures 1 to 4 recreated. In the exemplary embodiments of the Figures 5 to 11 The letter a is replaced by the letters b to g.

[0051] The Figure 5shows a schematic perspective representation of a first alternative industrial slicer device 100b. Figure 6 Figure 1 shows a schematic side view of the first alternative industrial slicer device 100b. The first alternative industrial slicer device 100b has a first alternative holding and / or positioning unit 10b. The first alternative holding and / or positioning unit 10b comprises a claw support element 26b and another claw support element 64b. The claw support elements 26b and 64b are only parallel to a principal extension plane 36b (see Figure 1). Fig. 6The claw support element 26b, 64b is mounted in a translationally movable manner. The claw support element 26b and the further claw support element 64b are free from mutual interference and / or interlocking. Each of the claw support elements 26b, 64b has a plurality of first alternative claw elements 18b, 20b, 30b, 32b. The alternative claw elements 18b, 20b, 30b, 32b are arranged on surfaces 28b of the claw support elements 26b, 64b in a positionally and orientationally fixed manner. The alternative claw elements 18b, 20b, 30b, 32b are mounted on the surfaces 28b of the claw support elements 26b, 64b. The first alternative claw elements 18b, 20b, 30b, 32b are manufactured separately from the claw support elements 26b, 64b.The further claw carrier element 64b is mounted so that it can be moved relative to the claw carrier element 26b that, when or after the first alternative claw elements 18b, 20b, 30b, 32b penetrate an object, a crushing of object material of object 12b is produced by a linear movement of the two claw carrier elements 26b, 64b towards each other.

[0052] The first alternative claw elements 18b, 20b, 30b, 32b are shaped at least substantially like sickles and / or at least substantially like hooks. The first alternative claw elements 18b, 20b, 30b, 32b are shaped like cat claws. The first alternative industrial slicer device 100b has an ejector unit 88b. The ejector unit 88b is designed to reliably detach remnants of objects 12b completely cut by a separating unit from the first alternative holding and / or positioning unit 10b by means of an impact movement. The ejector unit 88b is designed to detach the remnants of objects 12b completely cut by the separating unit 14b from the first alternative claw elements 18b, 20b, 30b, 32b by means of an impact movement. The ejector unit 88b has several plunger elements 90b. The plunger elements 90b can each be extended and retracted in a space 132b between the two claw carrier elements 26b, 64b.

[0053] The Figure 7 Figure 1 shows a schematic perspective view of a second alternative industrial slicer device 100c. The second alternative industrial slicer device 100c has a second alternative holding and / or positioning unit 10c. The second alternative holding and / or positioning unit 10c comprises a claw support element 26c and another claw support element 64c. The claw support elements 26c and 64c are mounted so as to be translationally movable only parallel to a principal extension plane 36c of the respective claw support element 26c and 64c. The claw support element 26c and the other claw support element 64c are nested within the second alternative holding and / or positioning unit 10c.

[0054] The Figure 8Figure 1 shows a schematic perspective view of a third alternative industrial slicer device 100d. The third alternative industrial slicer device 100d has a third alternative holding and / or positioning unit 10d. The third alternative holding and / or positioning unit 10d comprises a claw support element 26d and another claw support element 64d. The claw support elements 26d and 64d are each ring-shaped. The claw support elements 26d and 64d are each rotatably movable. The claw support elements 26d and 64d are rotatably movable in opposite directions to each other. The claw support elements 26d and 64d are only rotatably mounted about a central axis of rotation 62d that extends perpendicular to a principal extension plane 36d of the respective claw support element 26d.The claw carrier element 26d and the further claw carrier element 64d are nested within the third alternative holding and / or positioning unit 10d. Each of the claw carrier elements 26d, 64d has a plurality of claw elements 18d, 20d, 30d, 32d, which correspond to the first alternative claw elements 18b, 20b, 30b, 32b from the . Figure 5The further claw support element 64d is mounted so as to be movable relative to the claw support element 26d that, upon or after penetration of the claw elements 18d, 20d, 30d, 32d into an object 12d, a crushing of object material from the object 12d is generated by a rotational movement of the two claw support elements 26d, 64d towards each other. The claw elements 18d, 20d, 30d, 32d are each arranged in concentric ring patterns 58d on the claw support element 26d. The third alternative industrial slicer device 100d has an ejector unit 88d. The ejector unit 88d has a plunger element 90d. The plunger element 90d is arranged centrally in the middle of the ring-shaped claw support elements 26d, 64d. The axis of rotation 62d runs centrally through the plunger element 90d.

[0055] The Figure 9Figure 1 shows a schematic side view of a fourth alternative industrial slicer device 100e. The fourth alternative industrial slicer device 100e has a fourth alternative holding and / or positioning unit 10e. The fourth alternative holding and / or positioning unit 10e comprises a claw support element 26e and another claw support element 64e. The claw support elements 26e and 64e are each rotatably movable. The claw support elements 26e and 64e are rotatably movable in opposite directions to each other. The claw support elements 26e and 64e are only rotatably mounted about a pivot axis 60e that runs at least parallel to a principal extension plane 36e of the respective claw support element 26e and 64e. The claw support element 26e and the other claw support element 64e are free of mutual interference and / or interlocking.

[0056] The Figure 10Figure 1 shows a schematic front view of a fifth alternative industrial slicer device 100f. The fifth alternative industrial slicer device 100f has a fifth alternative holding and / or positioning unit 10f. The fifth alternative holding and / or positioning unit 10f comprises a claw support element 26f and another claw support element 64f. The claw support elements 26f and 64f are each translationally movable. The claw support element 26f and the other claw support element 64f are nested within the third alternative holding and / or positioning unit 10f. Each of the claw support elements 26f and 64f has a plurality of second alternative claw elements 18f, 20f, 30f, and 32f. The second alternative claw elements 18f, 20f, 30f, 32f each have two separate points 74f, 76f. Each of the points 74f, 76f tapers to a point in three dimensions.The tips 74f, 76f of the claw elements 18f, 20f, 30f, 32f are each slightly bent laterally. The fifth alternative industrial slicer device 100f has an ejector unit 88f. The ejector unit 88f has a plunger element 90f. The plunger element 90f can be extended and retracted below the two claw support elements 26f, 64f. Alternatively, the plunger element 90f or another plunger element 90f could also be extended and retracted above the two claw support elements 26f, 64f.

[0057] The Figure 11Figure 1 shows a schematic side view of a sixth alternative industrial slicer device (100g). The sixth alternative industrial slicer device (100g) includes a sixth alternative holding and / or positioning unit (10g). The sixth alternative holding and / or positioning unit (10g) comprises a claw carrier element (26g). The claw carrier element (26g) has a plurality of third alternative claw elements (18g, 20g). The third alternative claw elements (18g, 20g) are in the shape of an oblique pyramid. The oblique pyramid is configured such that a straight line pointing perpendicularly from a pyramid apex (82g) of the oblique pyramid towards a pyramid base (80g) of the oblique pyramid lies outside the pyramid base (80g).

Claims

1. Industrial slicing device (100a-g), in particular an industrial food slicing device, with a holding and / or positioning unit (10a-g) for at least holding and / or positioning an object (12a-g) to be sliced, preferably a food product to be sliced, such as, for example, a cheese product, a sausage product, a meat product, a fish product or a baked product, relative to a cutting unit (14a-g) which can cut the object (12a-g) into a plurality of slices (16a-g), wherein the holding and / or positioning unit (10a-g) has a plurality of claw elements (18ag, 20a-g, 30a-g, 32a-g) which are provided to generate a claw force holding the object (12a-g) on ​​the holding and / or positioning unit (10a-g) on ​​a surface (22a-g) of the object. to pierce (12a-g) and penetrate the object (12a-g), characterized by the fact thatthe holding and / or positioning unit (10a-g) has at least one claw carrier element (26a-g) which is translationally and / or rotationally deflectable relative to a base (24a-g) of the holding and / or positioning unit (10a-g), and which is in particular at least substantially planar in form, on the surface (28a-g) of which several of the claw elements (18b-g, 20b-g) are arranged, preferably in a positionally and orientationally fixed manner, and / or which forms several of the claw elements (18a, 20a) in one piece, wherein a claw direction (34a-g) of at least one part of these claw elements (18a-g, 20a-g) of the claw carrier element (26a-g) is angled to a principal extension plane (36a-g) of the claw carrier element (26a-g).

2. Industrial slicer device (100a-g) according to claim 1, characterized by the fact thatat least one of the claw elements (18a-g, 20a-g) of the claw carrier element (26a-g) permanently projects at least 4 mm, preferably at least 6 mm, perpendicularly beyond the surface (28a-g) of the claw carrier element (26a-g) surrounding the claw element (18a-g, 20a-g).

3. Industrial slicer device (100a-g) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by the fact that none of the claw elements (18a-g, 20a-g) of the claw carrier element (26a-g) protrudes perpendicularly more than 10 mm, preferably more than 8 mm, beyond the surface (28a-g) surrounding the claw element (18a-g, 20a-g) of the claw carrier element (26a-g).

4. Industrial slicer device (100a-g) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that The principal extension planes (38a-g, 40a-g) of the claw elements (18a-g, 20a-g) of the claw support element (26a-g) are inclined to the principal extension plane (36a-g) of the claw support element (26a-g).

5. Industrial slicer device (100a-g) according to claim 4, characterized by the fact thatAngles (42a-g, 44a-g) between the principal extension planes (38a-g, 40a-g) of the claw elements (18a-g, 20a-g) of the claw support element (26a-g) and the principal extension plane (36a-g) of the claw support element (26a-g) and / or angles (46a-g, 48a-g) between the claw directions (34a-g) of the claw elements (18a-g, 20a-g) of the claw support element (26a-g) and the principal extension plane (36a-g) of the claw support element (26a-g) are less than 70°, preferably less than 60°.

6. Industrial slicer device (100a-g) according to claim 4 or 5, characterized by the fact thatAngles (42a-g, 44a-g) between the principal extension planes (38a-g, 40a-g) of the claw elements (18a-g, 20a-g) of the claw support element (26a-g) and the principal extension plane (36a-g) of the claw support element (26a-g) and / or angles (46a-g, 48a-g) between the claw directions (34a-g) of the claw elements (18a-g, 20a-g) of the claw support element (26a-g) and the principal extension plane (36a-g) of the claw support element (26a-g) are greater than 20°, preferably greater than 30°.

7. Industrial slicer device (100a-c; 100e-g) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the claw elements (18a-c, 20a-c; 18e-g, 20e-g) are arranged in several parallel rows (54a-c, 54e-g) and / or in several parallel columns (56a-c; 54e-g) on ​​the claw carrier element (26a-c; 26e-g).

8. Industrial slicer device (100d) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by the fact thatthe claw elements (18d, 20d) are arranged in a spiral pattern, in a ring pattern (58d) or in several, preferably concentric, spiral and / or ring patterns (58d) on the claw carrier element (26d).

9. Industrial slicer device (100a-c; 100f-g) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the claw carrier element (26a-c; 26f-g), in particular only, is mounted in a translationally movable manner parallel to the main extension plane (36a-c; 36f-g) of the claw carrier element (26a-c; 26f-g).

10. Industrial slicer device (100e) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the claw carrier element (26e), in particular only, is rotatably mounted around a pivot axis (60e) which runs at least substantially parallel to the main extension plane (36e) of the claw carrier element (26e).

11. Industrial slicer device (100d) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact thatthe claw carrier element (26d), in particular only, is rotatably mounted about an axis of rotation (62d) which is at least substantially perpendicular to the main extension plane (36d) of the claw carrier element (26d).

12. Industrial slicer device (100a-g) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact thatthe holding and / or positioning unit (10a-g) has at least one further claw carrier element (64a-g) which is translationally and / or rotationally deflectable relative to the base (24a-g) of the holding and / or positioning unit (10a-g), and which is in particular at least substantially planar in form, on the surface (66a-g) of which several of the claw elements (30b-g, 32b-g) are arranged, preferably in a positionally and orientationally fixed manner, and / or which forms several of the claw elements (30a, 32a) in one piece, wherein a claw direction (34a-g) of at least one part of these claw elements (30a-g, 32a-g) of the further claw carrier element (64a-g) is angled to a principal extension plane (68a-g) of the further claw carrier element (64a-g).

13. Industrial slicer device (100a-g) according to claim 12, characterized by the fact thatThe further claw carrier element (64a-g) is mounted in such a way that it is movable relative to the claw carrier element (26a-g), in particular in such a coupled manner that, when or after the claw elements (18a-g, 20a-g, 30a-g, 32a-g) of the two claw carrier elements (26a-g, 64a-g) penetrate the object (12a-g), a crushing of object material of the object (12a-g) can be produced.

14. Industrial slicer device (100a-g) according to one of claims 12 or 13, characterized by the fact that The principal extension planes (70a-g, 72a-g) of the claw elements (30a-g, 32a-g) of the further claw support element (64a-g) are inclined in opposite directions to the principal extension planes (38a-g, 40a-g) of the claw elements (18a-g, 20a-g) of the claw support element (26a-g).

15. Industrial slicer device (100a-b; 100e; 100g) according to one of claims 12 to 14, characterized by the fact thatthe claw carrier element (26a-b; 26e; 26g) and the further claw carrier element (64a-b; 64e; 64g) are free from mutual interference and / or nesting.

16. Industrial slicer device (100c-d; 100f) according to one of claims 12 to 14, characterized by the fact that the claw carrier element (26c-d; 26f) and the further claw carrier element (64c-d; 64f) are nested within the holding and / or positioning unit (10c-d; 10f).

17. Industrial slicer device (100a-g) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that at least some of the claw elements (18a-g, 20a-g, 30a-g, 32a-g), preferably all claw elements (18a-g, 20a-g, 30a-g, 32a-g), are formed with a three-dimensionally tapered point.

18. Industrial slicer device (100f) according to claim 17, characterized by the fact thatat least some of the three-dimensionally tapered claw elements (18f, 20f, 30f, 32f), preferably all claw elements (18f, 20f, 30f, 32f), have at least two separate tips (74f, 76f).

19. Industrial slicer device (100a-g) according to claim 17 or 18, characterized by the fact that a tip (74f, 76f, 78a-g) of at least part of the three-dimensionally tapered claw elements (18a-g, 20a-g, 30a-g, 32a-g) is asymmetrically tapered three-dimensionally and / or bent laterally.

20. Industrial slicer device (100b-f) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that at least some of the claw elements (18b-f, 20b-f, 30b-f, 32b-f), preferably all claw elements (18b-f, 20b-f, 30b-f, 32b-f), are shaped at least substantially sickle-shaped and / or at least substantially hook-shaped.

21. Industrial slicer device (100g) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact thatat least some of the claw elements (18g, 20g, 30g, 32g), preferably all claw elements (18g, 20g, 30g, 32g), have at least substantially the shape of an oblique pyramid, preferably with a pyramid apex (82g) located outside a pyramid base (80g).

22. Industrial slicer device (100a) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that at least the claw elements (18a, 20a, 30a, 32a) formed in one piece with the claw carrier element (26a, 64a) are formed by tabs, in particular sheet metal tabs, bent out of the main extension plane (36a, 68a) of the claw carrier element (26a, 64a).

23. Industrial slicer device (100a-g) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact thatadjacent to a foot (84a-g) at least one of the claw elements (18a-g, 20a-g, 30a-g, 32a-g), preferably of each claw element (18a-g, 20a-g, 30a-g, 32a-g), an opening (86a-g) penetrating the claw carrier element (26a-g, 64a-g) is formed, in particular for the removal of object residues from previously grasped objects (12a-g).

24. Industrial slicer device (100a-g) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by an ejector unit (88a-g) which is designed to safely release the object (12a-g) or a residue of the object (12a-g) cut by the separating unit (14a-g) from the holding and / or positioning unit (10a-g), preferably from the claw elements (18a-g, 20a-g, 30a-g, 32a-g) by means of a shock movement.

25. Industrial slicer device (100b; 100e; 100g) at least according to claims 12 and 24, characterized by the fact thatthe ejector unit (88b; 88e; 88g) has at least one or more plunger elements (90b; 90e; 90g) which is / are extendable between the two claw carrier elements (26b, 64b; 26e, 64e; 26g, 64g).

26. Industrial slicer device (100a; 100c-d; 100f) according to claim 24 or 25, characterized by the fact that the ejector unit (88a; 88c-d; 88f) has at least one or more plunger elements (90a; 90c-d; 90f) which is / are extendable between adjacent claw elements (18a, 20a; 18cd, 20c-d) of the claw carrier element (26a; 26c-d) and / or above or below one of the claw carrier elements (26f, 64f).

27. Industrial slicer device (100a-g) according to claim 25 and / or 26, characterized bya gear unit (92a-g) designed to couple deflection movements of the claw carrier element (26a-g) with extension and retraction movements of the plunger element (90a-g) or plunger elements (90a-g), in particular such that a movement of the claw carrier element (26a-g) intended to generate internal compression of the object (12a-g) and / or to hold the object (12a-g) results in the plunger element (90a-g) or plunger elements (90a-g) being retracted and / or that a movement of the claw carrier element (26a-g) intended to release internal compression of the object (12a-g) and / or to release the object (12a-g) results in the plunger element (90a-g) or plunger elements (90a-g) being extended Leads plunger elements (90a-g).

28. Industrial slicer device (100a; 100c-d; 100f) according to any one of claims 25 to 27, characterized by the fact thatthe claw carrier element (26a; 26c-d; 26f) has at least one, in particular circumferentially closed, recess (94a; 94c-d; 94f) which is provided for the passage of the plunger element (90a; 90c-d; 90f) or several of the plunger elements (90a; 90c-d; 90f).

29. Industrial slicer (96a-g), comprising a separation unit (14a-g) for dividing objects (12a-g) into slices (16a-g) and a movement mechanism (98a-g) on ​​which an industrial slicer device (100a-g) according to one of the preceding claims is arranged, and which is at least provided for moving the slicer device (100a-g) at least one-dimensionally / linearly towards the object (12a-g) in order to establish a connection between the slicer device (100a-g) and the object (12a-g).

30. Method for slicing objects (12a-g), preferably for slicing foodstuffs such as, among others, cheese products, sausages, meat products, fish products or baked goods, using an industrial slicer (96a-g), characterized by the fact that the object (12a-g) is held and / or preferably positioned relative to a cutting unit (14a-g) by an industrial slicer device (100a-g) according to one of claims 1 to 28, at least during a cutting into slices (16a-g), in particular by a cutting unit (14a-g) of the industrial slicer (96a-g).

Images