A shuttle for supporting and illuminating at least one object, including a bird egg, AND a machine comprising at least one such shuttle

Abstract

------ Support and lighting shuttle for at least one object, in particular a bird egg, AND Machine comprising at least one such shuttle. The invention relates to a shuttle (1) and a machine comprising at least one such shuttle (1), which shuttle (1) comprises: - a holding assembly having a base (2) having at least one lower cavity adapted to receive a lower end region of an object (O) and having a flange (4) supported by the base (2) having, opposite the lower cavity, an upper cavity adapted to receive an upper end region of the object (O), in use, the holding assembly (2-4) being configured to occupy a holding position in the position of the object (O); - at least one lighting device located in one of the upper and lower cavities;- electrical connection means comprising an electrical connector assembly (70) accessible from outside the base (2) and an electrical conductor assembly forming an electrical path between the electrical connector assembly (70) and the lighting device(s). Figure to be published with the abbreviation: Figure 1.;

Description

Title of the invention: Shuttle for supporting and illuminating at least one object, in particular an avian egg, AND Machine comprising at least one such shuttle

[0001] The present invention relates generally to the field of sorting objects.

[0002] The present invention is particularly, but not limited to, the field of the poultry industry, and more particularly, to the sorting of avian eggs, such as for example duck eggs, according to their sex.

[0003] The present invention relates to a support and lighting shuttle for appropriately illuminating at least one object and maintaining it in the correct position, and to a machine, in particular an automatic object sorting machine, comprising at least one such shuttle.

[0004] The machine according to the present invention is particularly suitable for the in ovo determination, in a non-invasive manner, of the male or female gender of an embryo contained in a fertilized egg, and for sorting the eggs according to their gender. Such sorting is necessary for certain types of production which involve retaining only the male or female individuals produced. For example, for quality reasons, the production of foie gras is done exclusively by force-feeding male ducks, whereas for the production of chicken eggs, only the females are retained.

[0005] However, this machine may also be used for the inspection and sorting of any other objects that can be sorted according to one of their observable characteristics.

[0006] In the poultry sector, the recurring problem of determining the sex of eggs before they hatch has been known for many years. Indeed, determining the gender of embryos at an early stage of incubation makes it possible to improve poultry production, with both time and financial savings. Consequently, a number of determination techniques have been developed to assess the sex of an unhatched bird egg.

[0007] A known technique is based on measuring the amount of light transmitted by an egg. This candling technique is widely used and is, for example, described in US patent US 5,745,228 A. This US patent describes an apparatus comprising an egg tray arranged horizontally on a conveyor device and configured to carry several rows of eggs, at least one light source positioned on one side of the tray and at least one light detector positioned on the other side of the tray, opposite the at least one light source and in the same vertical plane, the conveyor device causing the egg tray to move between the at least one light source and the at least one light detector. at least one light source and at least one detector.

[0008] Mention may also be made of French patent FR 2 935 051 B1 which discloses a similar automatic egg candling device. This device comprises egg incubation trays comprising cells in which eggs to be candled are arranged, conveying means for transporting the trays according to a conveying plane, a support, arranged above the conveying means and fixedly carrying lighting means and image capture means, which support is capable of being moved vertically between a raised position and a candling position, in which it rests on the upper part of the eggs.

[0009] However, in these apparatuses and devices of the prior art, the eggs are positioned in an egg tray or an incubation tray in which the eggs can take any position, which position depends on the contacts between the eggs and the walls of the tray or tray. However, the correct and stable positioning of the eggs is of particular importance to ensure reliable examination of the eggs.

[0010] Furthermore, such an apparatus or device provides one or more light sources on only one side of the object to be observed, which may prove insufficient.

[0011] Thus, these apparatuses and devices of the prior state of the art do not make it possible to obtain optimal presentation conditions, in particular in terms of positioning and lighting of the object(s), allowing rapid and reliable examination of the object(s) presented.

[0012] There is therefore a need for means making it possible to optimize the conditions of both lighting and positioning and holding of the object(s) to be sorted, while adapting to the dimensions of the objects and to the dimensional differences between various objects, without risk of damaging the objects handled and which can be easily implemented on an industrial scale.

[0013] The present invention aims to resolve the drawbacks of the prior art, by proposing a shuttle integrating both means for supporting at least one object to be sorted and means for illuminating the latter, the support and lighting means being configured for optimal presentation of the at least one object. The present invention also proposes a machine, in particular a sorting machine, comprising at least one such shuttle, which machine is simple, reliable, economical and easily implemented on an industrial scale. In a particular embodiment of the invention, in which the machine is adapted to sorting eggs, the drawbacks of the prior art are further overcome by the provision of at least one egg orientation and alignment tray upstream of the at least one shuttle.

[0014] The present invention therefore relates to a support and lighting shuttle of at least at least one object, in particular an object to be sorted such as an avian egg, intended to be positioned or moved in a visiometry or optical inspection station, which shuttle comprises a holding assembly configured to support and hold in position the at least one object, and a lighting system configured to illuminate the at least one object, the shuttle being characterized by the fact that: - the holding assembly comprises a base and a flange supported by the base, the base comprises at least one seat defining a lower cavity arranged to receive a lower end region of an object and having a lower receiving opening capable of cooperating with the object, the flange comprises, opposite the or each seat, an upper cavity arranged to receive an upper end region of the object and having an upper receiving opening capable of cooperating with the object, the lower receiving opening and the associated upper receiving opening being oriented towards each other and along the same axis, in use, the holding assembly being configured to be capable of occupying a spaced position, in which the or each lower receiving opening and the associated upper receiving opening are spaced from each other by a distance allowing an object to be placed on the seat and removed, and a holding position,wherein the or each lower receiving opening and the associated upper receiving opening are spaced apart from each other by a distance sufficient to hold and immobilize an object between the base and the flange, with the lower and upper end regions of the object received in the lower cavity and in the upper cavity, respectively; , - the lighting system comprises, in at least one of the lower and upper cavities, a lighting device configured to emit light, for example a light beam, towards the associated receiving opening; and - the shuttle further comprising electrical connection means comprising an electrical connector assembly accessible from outside the base and an electrically conductive assembly forming an electrical path between the electrical connector assembly and the or each lighting device, such that in use, when the connector assembly is connected to current injection means, the or each lighting device is capable of being supplied with electricity.

[0015] The shuttle according to the present invention allows an optimal presentation of at least one object, which optimal presentation implies a correct and reliable holding of the at least one object and its appropriate lighting.

[0016] Indeed, an object supported by the shuttle is held both from above and from below when the holding assembly is in the holding position. In the absence of the flange and therefore of means for holding from above, the object would not be held in a fixed position, and the object would risk falling, in particular during the de- shuttle placement.

[0017] The fact that the lower and upper cavities are arranged, in particular dimensioned, to receive only a lower end region and an upper end region, respectively, of the object allows the remainder of the object not to be masked. Thus, in the case where the axis of the object is positioned vertically, the object can be seen and inspected over 360 degrees around its axis.

[0018] The presence of an upper lighting device and / or a lower lighting device makes it possible to illuminate the object from above or from below, or both.

[0019] Furthermore, such electrical connection means make it possible to power the lighting device(s) wirelessly, and therefore not to hinder the movements of the shuttle. In addition, these connection means make it possible to obtain a lightweight shuttle, unlike a shuttle which would include a battery to power its lighting system.

[0020] Preferably, the flange is mounted so as to slide freely vertically relative to the base, the base carrying at least one vertical guide along which the flange is capable of sliding. Thus, the movement of the holding assembly between the spaced and holding positions is caused by the vertical translational movement of the flange carrying the upper cavity(ies) relative to the base carrying the corresponding lower cavity(ies). Such a sliding mounting of the flange makes it possible to adapt to objects of various heights.

[0021] Preferably, the at least one vertical guide comprises two parallel vertical uprights.

[0022] Preferably, the electrical connector assembly projects from a face of the base arranged parallel to the plane of translational movement of the flange.

[0023] Advantageously, the flange carries at least one magnet arranged on its lower face directed towards the base, preferably a magnet arranged in the vicinity of the or each vertical guide. Thus, the flange is able to be moved easily along the at least one guide, by a handling member placed under the flange and cooperating with the magnets, thanks to the force of the magnets. Such magnets make it possible to dispense with the need to mount springs on the guides in order to urge the flange towards the base.

[0024] Preferably, for the or each upper lighting device, the electrical path comprises electrical wires integrated into the base and connecting the electrical connector assembly to the lower end of the or each vertical guide, the or each vertical guide made of an electrically conductive material and a plurality of conductive elements integrated into the flange and connecting the or each vertical guide and the upper lighting device, and, for the or each lower lighting device, the electrical path comprises electrical wires integrated into the base and directly connecting the electrical connector assembly and the lower lighting device.

[0025] Having an electrical path between the base and the flange formed by at least one vertical guide made of electrically conductive material rather than by electrical wires passing through the or each guide makes it possible to prevent a surrounding element moving in the vicinity of the shuttle from getting caught in a wire and tearing it off. Such an electrical path is therefore more reliable.

[0026] Preferably, the or each vertical guide is made of stainless steel.

[0027] In a particular embodiment, the plurality of integrated conductive elements to the flange includes, for the or each vertical guide: a bronze bearing mounted around the guide, a flange connecting a tension spring to the bearing, a lug connected to the flange, and a screw ensuring contact between the lighting device and the spring.

[0028] Advantageously, the lighting system comprises an upper lighting device in the or each upper cavity and a lower lighting device in the or each lower cavity, each upper lighting device and the associated lower lighting device being advantageously arranged to emit light beams passing through the common axis of the associated receiving openings. Thus, in the case where the object is positioned such that its axis is vertical, it is illuminated by light beams passing through its axis, in other words, the object is crossed by the light beams.

[0029] Preferably, each lighting device comprises a semiconductor light source, such as a light-emitting diode, a lens and a protective glass delimiting in the cavity a lighting device receiving space and an object receiving space.

[0030] In the case where the shuttle according to the present invention is applied to the poultry industry, in particular to the sorting of eggs according to their type, it is preferable that the shuttle comprises a single seat, and therefore a single lower cavity and a single upper cavity.

[0031] Advantageously, the upper and lower cavities are configured such that their openings match the shape of the object to be held, in other words come into close contact with the object.

[0032] Thus, in the case where the object is an egg, each cavity preferably has a tulip, funnel, substantially truncated or ogival shape opening out towards the receiving opening. Such a shape allows both good support of the egg and a luminous seal.

[0033] The present invention also relates to a machine, in particular an automatic object sorting machine, said machine being characterized by the fact that it comprises at least one support and lighting shuttle as defined above, the machine further comprising an object reception station, a visiometry station and an object recovery station, transport means for moving the at least one shuttle along a path passing through the various stations, an upstream gripping assembly capable of gripping at least one object at the reception station and positioning it in the at least one shuttle, and a downstream gripping assembly capable of gripping at least one object in the at least one shuttle and transferring it to the recovery station, the visiometry station comprising a plurality of shooting cameras associated with automatic analysis means and current injection means capable of being connected to the electrical connector assembly of the at least one shuttle.

[0034] Thanks to the at least one shuttle according to the present invention, the object(s) are presented at the visiometry station by being optimally staged.

[0035] Preferably, the machine comprises a plurality of shuttles each supporting and illuminating a single object. The shuttles are positioned one after the other in a certain order, called the starting order, at the object reception station, can be moved one after the other while maintaining the starting order up to the visiometry station, then be moved again one after the other to the recovery station where they are again positioned one after the other, but possibly arranged in an order different from the starting order depending on the result of the analysis carried out by the automatic analysis means.

[0036] Preferably, each gripping assembly comprises a plurality of gripping tools, each gripping tool comprising a suction cup adapted to grip an object.

[0037] Preferably, each gripping assembly also comprises a flange handling tool. Such a flange handling tool may be in the form of a rake comprising a plurality of pairs of fingers, each pair of fingers being adapted to be placed under a flange, if necessary at the level of the magnets, and to move the flange up and down along the vertical guide(s). Alternatively, such a flange handling tool may comprise at least one movable clamp adapted to be positioned vertically above a flange and to close under the flange in order to allow its movement along the vertical guides. We emphasize that any tool adapted to be placed under a flange or capable of gripping a flange and moving it could be suitable.

[0038] Preferably, the plurality of shooting cameras comprises a first pair of cameras disposed on one side of the shuttle path and a second pair of cameras disposed on the other side of the shuttle path.

[0039] Preferably, once the current injection means are coupled to the electrical connector assembly of a shuttle, in the case where the shuttle comprises an upper lighting device and a lower lighting device, each lighting device is controlled successively. Such independent control of the various lighting devices allows to obtain images of the object illuminated only from above and images of the object illuminated only from below. In addition, the lighting intensity of each lighting device can be adjusted, in particular according to the opacity of the object.

[0040] In a particular embodiment, the transport means comprise a magnetic levitation plane motor on which the shuttle(s) are arranged. Such a plane motor makes it possible to obtain a self-propelled shuttle capable of moving automatically from one station to another.

[0041] The planar motor could be replaced by a linear motor, an electro actuator magnetic, etc.

[0042] Alternatively, the transport means could comprise at least one conveyor on which the at least one shuttle is placed.

[0043] In a preferred embodiment, the machine is suitable for sorting eggs, the receiving station comprising at least one egg orientation and alignment tray, the or each tray comprising at least one orientation and alignment module, the or each module comprising two axially parallel rotating rollers spaced apart from each other by a distance allowing the positioning of an egg on and between the two rollers, and a rotational drive mechanism configured to drive the two rollers of the same module in counter-rotation relative to each other and towards the inter-roller space. Thus, for the or each module, the counter-rotation of the rollers makes it possible to correctly orient the eggs positioned on the module with their longitudinal axis horizontal.

[0044] The presence of such an egg orientation and alignment tray upstream of the visiometry station therefore allows the upstream gripping assembly to grip the eggs in good conditions, namely in a well-oriented manner, in order to be able to position them correctly on the shuttle, namely with the longitudinal vertical and the small end upwards. Indeed, the eggs received in the trays are not calibrated and therefore have various dimensions in length (variations of the order of 19 mm), in width, various weights and various diameters (variations of the order of 10 mm) which do not promote correct arrangement and positioning of the eggs in the tray. A reorientation of the eggs before their positioning in the shuttles is therefore necessary.

[0045] In a particular embodiment, the rotation drive mechanism comprises a rack, for the or each module, a first pinion engaged with the rack and secured to one of the two rollers, an intermediate pinion secured to the roller carrying the first pinion and meshing with a second pinion secured to the other roller.

[0046] Preferably, the rollers are made of a smooth material, such as stainless steel. Such a smooth material allows the eggs to slide easily on the rollers.

[0047] Advantageously, each roller comprises at least one wedging section, the or each wedging section comprising a cylindrical groove arranged between two frustoconical portions facing each other, the associated wedging sections of two rollers of the same module being aligned radially. Such a shape allows the object to be wedged in the associated grooves and therefore to be aligned in the direction of the length of the rollers regardless of its size.

[0048] Preferably, each module has three pairs of wedging sections.

[0049] Advantageously, each module comprises, on either side of the or each pair of wedging sections, at the level of the grooves, an external guide projecting above the grooves. Such external guides make it possible to ensure the recentering of the object along the longitudinal axis of the rollers.

[0050] Preferably, the or each tray comprises a plurality of orientation and alignment modules whose rollers are arranged parallel to each other, the modules are mounted to move in translation along two guide rails parallel to each other and whose axes are perpendicular to the axes of the rollers, by means of pads mounted to slide along the rails, each module being supported by two pads secured to each longitudinal end of the module. Thus, the modules are able to be moved in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction of the rollers. They can therefore be brought closer to or moved apart from each other.

[0051] Alternatively, each module could be fixedly mounted on a support with a predetermined spacing between the modules. In the case where the upstream gripping assembly comprises a plurality of gripping tools spaced apart from each other by a certain pitch, the spacing between the modules corresponds to the pitch of the gripping tools.

[0052] Each tray can include eight modules, or sixteen rollers.

[0053] In a particular embodiment, the or each plate comprises a module pitching system configured to control the translational movement of the plurality of modules along the guide rails with a constant pitch between the modules, which pitching system comprises a plurality of connecting rods articulated together about axes perpendicular to the plane of translational movement of the modules, each connecting rod being integral with a module, the articulation axis between two connecting rods called central connecting rods being received in a translational guiding means in a translational direction perpendicular to the articulation axis and parallel to the axes of the rollers, two actuating cylinders arranged on either side of the plurality of connecting rods, parallel to each other and orthogonal to the axes of the rollers and to the articulation axes, being integral with two modules,such that a relative translational movement between the two modules of a predetermined pitch, under the effect of the jacks, causes a synchronous translational movement of each module with a pitch between modules equal to said predetermined pitch.

[0054] The absence of motorization on the platform allows easy disassembly and maintenance of the platform.

[0055] Advantageously, the or each plate is mounted to move in translation along two transverse guide rails, the transverse rails being parallel to each other and parallel to the axes of the rollers, each longitudinal end of the or each plate being secured to a lateral support mounted to slide along a respective rail, one of the two supports of the or each plate being secured to a synchronous belt stretched between two pulleys, one of the pulleys being coupled to a geared motor. Thus, a single motor allows the translational movement of one or more plates.

[0056] Preferably, the machine comprises two plates, one of which is a lower plate and one of which is an upper plate, one of the lateral supports of the upper plate being secured to the upper strand of the belt, the corresponding lateral support of the lower plate being secured to the lower strand of the belt, such that the upper and lower plates can be positioned horizontally offset from each other.

[0057] The egg orientation and alignment tray as described above may be used independently of the other features of the machine described above. Thus, disclosed herein is an egg orientation and alignment tray comprising at least one orientation and alignment module, the or each module comprising two axially parallel rotating rollers spaced apart from each other by a distance allowing the positioning of an egg on and between the two rollers, and a rotational drive mechanism configured to drive the two rollers of the same module in counter-rotation relative to each other and towards the inter-roller space. This tray may have the same features as those described above in connection with the machine according to the present invention.

[0058] To better illustrate the object of the present invention, a particular embodiment will be described below, by way of illustration and not limitation, with reference to the attached drawing.

[0059] In this drawing:

[0060] [Fig. 1] is a perspective view of the shuttle according to a particular embodiment of the present invention, applied to the support and lighting of an egg;

[0061] [Fig.2] is a side view, in vertical section, of the shuttle of [Fig.l];

[0062] [Fig.3] is a perspective view from above of the base alone, showing the device lower lighting;

[0063] [Fig.4] is a bottom view of the base, showing the electrical connection means integrated into the base;

[0064] [Fig.5] is a top view of the flange, showing the interior of the flange;

[0065] [Fig.6] is a perspective view from below of the flange alone, showing the device superior lighting;

[0066] [Fig.7] is a perspective view at the level of the visiometry station of the machine according to a particular embodiment of the present invention, showing a shuttle connected to the current injection means;

[0067] [Fig-8] is a top view at the level of the visiometry station of [Fig.7], showing the shuttle stopped in front of a plurality of shooting cameras;

[0068] [Fig.9] is a perspective view of an orientation and alignment module of a machine according to a particular embodiment of the present invention, suitable for sorting eggs;

[0069] [Fig. 10] is a side view of the module of [Fig.9];

[0070] [Fig. 11] is a top view of an egg orientation and alignment tray comprising a plurality of modules;

[0071] [Fig. 12] is a perspective view, enlarged at the level of two modules, of the plateau beyond [Fig. 11];

[0072] [Fig. 13] is a bottom view of the tray of [Fig. 11];

[0073] [Fig. 14] is a perspective view from above of a system comprising two translationally movable egg orientation and alignment trays; and

[0074] [Fig. 15] is a side view, from the belt side, of the two-plate system of [Fig. 14],

[0075] In the following description, the terms “upper”, “lower”, “above” and “below” are understood in the vertical direction, in other words in a direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane on which the shuttle 1 according to the invention rests.

[0076] Referring firstly to Figures 1 to 6, it can be seen that the shuttle 1 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises a holding assembly, a lighting system 6 and electrical connection means 7.

[0077] In the embodiment shown, the holding assembly is configured to support and hold in position one egg O. It should be emphasized, however, that the holding assembly could be configured to support and hold in position several eggs O or any number of objects other than eggs O.

[0078] In the embodiment shown, the holding assembly essentially comprises a base 2, two vertical uprights 3 and a flange 4 mounted to move relative to the base 2.

[0079] As can be seen in Figures 3 and 4, the base 2 comprises a body having two opposite upper and lower faces and four opposite side faces two by two. A balancing ballast 5 is advantageously fixed to the lower face in order to lower the center of gravity of the shuttle 1 and increase its stability. This ballast 5 is in the form of a flat plate covering the lower face. The ballast 5 can be openwork.

[0080] The body of the base 2 comprises a seat 20 configured to integrate a lower lighting device 6i and receive a lower end region of the egg O. The seat 20 extends here from the lower face to the upper face and projects above the upper face. The seat 20 is located in the center of the base 2. In other words, the longitudinal axis of the seat 20 coincides with the vertical central axis of the base 2. The seat 20 comprises a cavity 21, called the lower cavity 21, open from above and from below. The opening from below, at the lower face, is an opening for example of hexagonal shape. The opening from above 22 is configured to cooperate with a lower end region of the egg O and is therefore designated here as the lower receiving opening 22. The lower receiving opening 22 has a circular shape.

[0081] As can be seen in [Fig. 2], the lower cavity 21 is formed of a plurality of sub-cavities 21a-21d, in particular four sub-cavities. The plurality of sub-cavities 21a-21d comprises a hexagonal cross-section sub-cavity 21a extending vertically from the opening from below, a first circular cross-section sub-cavity 21b having a first diameter and a second circular cross-section sub-cavity 21c having a second diameter greater than the first diameter, and an egg-receiving sub-cavity 21d having a shape expanding towards the lower receiving opening 22, in particular a tulip, funnel, substantially frustoconical or ogival shape. The shape of the egg-receiving sub-cavity 21d is thus adapted to receive an egg O by one of its ends, in a manner analogous to the cup of an egg cup.An interior space is delimited by the upper, lower and lateral faces and by the part of the seat 20 located below the upper face. Reinforcing parts 23 extend into the interior space, between the seat 20 and the lateral faces. On either side of the seat 20, at the center of two opposite lateral faces, the base 2 comprises two vertical housings 24 formed in one piece with the body. The two vertical housings 24 are parallel to each other and extend along a vertical longitudinal axis, therefore parallel to the longitudinal axis of the seat 20. The housings 24 are configured to receive the two vertical uprights 3. .

[0082] The two vertical uprights 3 are cylindrical uprights received in the housings 24 of corresponding circular section. Each upright 3 projects above the base 2 to a certain height. The two uprights 3 are located in the same vertical plane passing through a plane of symmetry of the seat 20. Each upright 3 is made of an electrically conductive material, in particular stainless steel. The two uprights 3 can be connected to each other, at their upper end, by a spacer bar 30. The spacer bar 30 can be secured to each upper end by screwing.

[0083] The movable flange 4 is mounted to slide freely vertically along the two vertical uprights 3. For this purpose, the flange 4 is crossed by two vertical orifices 40. Each orifice 40 is configured to be crossed by an upright 3 and to slide along this upright 3.

[0084] The flange 4 comprises a body in two parts assembled together by screwing, namely a housing 4a and a cover 4b covering and closing the housing 4a. As can be seen in Figures 5 and 6, the housing 4a has two opposite upper and lower faces and four opposite lateral faces in pairs. The upper face is a flat face of rectangular shape extending in a horizontal plane, therefore orthogonally to the axes of the uprights 3. The lower face is substantially flat, but could have a particular shape, in particular a shape capable of cooperating with handling tools of complementary shape. The housing 4a comprises, opposite the seat 20, a cavity called the upper cavity 41 configured to integrate an upper lighting device 6s and receive an upper end region of the egg O.The upper cavity 41 extends here from the upper face of the housing 4a to the lower face and projects below the lower face. The upper cavity 41 extends along a longitudinal axis located in the center of the flange 4, in other words at an equal distance from each upright 3. The longitudinal axis of the upper cavity 41 is a vertical axis which coincides with the longitudinal axis of the lower cavity 21. Analogously to the lower cavity 21, the upper cavity 41 is open from above and from below. The opening from above, at the upper face, is an opening for example of hexagonal shape. The opening from below 42 is configured to cooperate with an upper end region of the egg O and is therefore called the upper receiving opening 42. The upper receiving opening 42 has a circular shape.

[0085] As can be seen in [Fig.2], the upper cavity 41 is formed of a plurality of sub-cavities 41a-41d, in particular four sub-cavities. The plurality of sub-cavities 41a-41d comprises a hexagonal cross-section sub-cavity 41a extending vertically from the opening from above, a first circular cross-section sub-cavity 41b having a first diameter and a second circular cross-section sub-cavity 41c having a second diameter greater than the first diameter, and an egg-receiving sub-cavity 41d having a shape expanding towards the upper receiving opening 42, in particular a tulip, funnel, substantially frustoconical or ogival shape. The shape of the egg-receiving sub-cavity 41d is thus adapted to receiving an egg O by one of its ends.

[0086] As can be seen in [Fig.5], two interior spaces, communicating with the upper cavity 41, are delimited between the upper, lower and lateral faces. As can be seen in Figures 2 and 5, in each of the two interior spaces a magnet 43 can be received, in particular a circular magnet. A magnet 43 can therefore be provided, on each side of the upper cavity 41, in the vicinity of the uprights 3. Each magnet 43 is positioned in contact with the lower face.

[0087] In use, in order to be able to position an egg O on the seat 20, the movable flange 4 is first brought to occupy a spaced position, by any appropriate handling means. Such handling means may comprise two fingers capable of coming to be placed below the flange 4, if necessary at the level of the two magnets 43, and of lifting the flange 4, in other words of moving it in vertical translation along the two uprights 3 opposite the base 2. In this spaced position, the distance between the lower receiving opening 22 and the upper receiving opening 42 is greater than the height of the egg O to be placed. Then the egg O is positioned on the seat 20, with the longitudinal axis of the egg O along the vertical and the large end of the egg O received in the lower cavity 21, in particular in the egg receiving sub-cavity 21d, the lower receiving opening 22 coming into direct contact with the shell of the egg O.Once the egg O is thus supported by the base 2, the movable flange 4 is brought to occupy a holding position. For this, the flange 4 is made to slide along the two uprights 3, in the direction of the base 2, until the upper receiving opening 42 is in direct contact with the shell of the egg O. In this holding position, as can be seen in [Fig.l], the small end of the egg O is received in the upper cavity 41, in particular in the egg receiving sub-cavity 41d, and the egg O is blocked in a fixed position between the flange 4 and the base 2, in particular between the upper 42 and lower 22 receiving openings. With the exception of the small end and the large end of the egg O received in the cavities 21, 41, the entire remainder of the egg O is left free over 360 degrees around the longitudinal axis of the egg O. In other words, the remainder of the egg O does not come into contact with any wall and remains visible.

[0088] Although in the preferred embodiment the flange 4 is mounted to be movable relative to the base 2, it should be emphasized that the holding assembly is not limited to this configuration. In particular, it would be possible to provide a configuration in which the seat 20 would be mounted to be movable relative to the flange 4. Similarly, the guidance of the sliding movement of the flange 4 is not limited to the two vertical uprights 3 and could be achieved by any other vertical guiding means.

[0089] An arrangement could also be provided in which the relative movement between the base 2 and the flange 4 is not a simple translation, as described above, but another simple movement, such as a rotation about a vertical or horizontal axis, or a compound movement, such as a combination of a rotation and a translation.

[0090] The holding assembly carries the lighting system 6. In the embodiment shown, the lighting system 6 is configured to illuminate an egg O both from above the egg O and from below the egg O. It should be emphasized, however, that the lighting system 6 could be configured to illuminate a plurality of objects and / or configured to illuminate the object(s) either from above or from below.

[0091] In the embodiment shown, the lighting system 6 comprises an upper lighting device 6s housed in the upper cavity 41 and a lower lighting device 6i housed in the lower cavity 21.

[0092] As can be seen in [Fig.2], each lighting device 6i, 6s comprises a light-emitting diode 60, a tubular lens 61 resting against the diode 60 and a protective glass 62 covering the lens 61. As can be seen in Figures 4 and 5, the light-emitting diode 60 is flat and here has a substantially hexagonal shape complementary to the hexagonal section sub-cavity 21a, 41a in which it is received and fixed, in particular by screwing. Thus, the light-emitting diode 60 closes the opening of the cavity 61, 41 opposite the receiving opening 22, 42. As can be seen in Figures 3 and 6, the lens 61 is sized to be received in the first circular section sub-cavity 21b, 41b. The protective glass 62 is circular and sized to be received in the second sub-cavity of circular section 21c, 41c. The glass 62 is fixed by gluing to the wall of the sub-cavity.This protective glass 62 thus separates the cavity 21, 41 into a space for receiving the lighting device 6i, 6s and a space for receiving the egg O. This glass 62 makes it possible to protect the light-emitting diode 60 and the lens 61 from dirt coming from the egg O and prevents any contact between the egg O and the light source.

[0093] The upper lighting device 6s and the lower lighting device 6i are arranged opposite each other and directed towards each other. More precisely, the lenses 61 and the protective glasses 62 are coaxial and the light beams emitted by the diodes 60 are oriented towards each other and in the same direction coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the cavities 21, 41 and therefore with the vertical longitudinal axis of the egg O. Thus, the upper lighting device 6s is able to emit a light beam which penetrates into the egg O from above the egg O and the lower lighting device 6i is able to emit a light beam which penetrates into the egg O from below the egg O, so that the egg O can be illuminated from each of its two ends.

[0094] The electrical connection means 7 are configured to electrically connect each lighting device 6i, 6s to current injection means 8 external to the shuttle 1. Thus, in the embodiment shown, the electrical connection means 7 make it possible to electrically connect the upper lighting device 6s and the lower lighting device 6i has current injection means 8.

[0095] The electrical connection means 7 generally comprise an electrical connector assembly 70 and an electrically conductive assembly forming an electrical path between the electrical connector assembly 70 and each lighting device 6i, 6s.

[0096] As can be seen in Figures 1, 3 and 4, the electrical connector assembly 70 here comprises three electrical connectors fixed to the base 2. These three electrical connectors 70 are arranged next to each other, parallel to each other, and project from the same lateral face of the base 2. In particular, the three electrical connectors 70 are integral with a lateral face located in a vertical plane parallel to the plane comprising the two uprights 3. The three electrical connectors 70 extend perpendicular to this vertical lateral face. In a particular embodiment of the invention, the three electrical connectors 70 are spring contacts.

[0097] The electrically conductive assembly forms an electrical path between the connector assembly 70 and the lower lighting device 6i. As can be seen in [Fig. 4], this path comprises conductive elements 71, 72 integrated in the base 2, in particular in the interior space of the base 2. These conductive elements 71, 72 comprise a positive electrical wire 71 connecting an electrical connector 70, in particular the central connector, and the positive terminal of the lower diode 60 and a negative electrical wire 72 connecting another electrical connector 70 and the negative terminal of the lower diode 60.

[0098] The electrically conductive assembly also forms an electrical path between the connector assembly 70 and the upper lighting device 6s. As can be seen in Figures 2 and 5, this path comprises conductive elements 73, 74 integrated in the base 2, conductive elements integrated in the flange 4 as well as the two uprights 3. The conductive elements 73, 74 integrated in the base 2 comprise a positive electrical wire 73 connecting an electrical connector 70, in particular the central connector, and one of the two vertical uprights 3 and a negative electrical wire 74 connecting another connector 70 and the other vertical upright 3. A terminal is fixed to the lower end of each upright 3 to make the connection between each upright 3 and the associated electrical wire.The two uprights 3 are made of an electrically conductive material, such that they allow the circulation of an electric current between the lower end and the upper end of the upright 3. The conductive elements integrated in the flange 4 comprise, symmetrically on either side of the upper diode 60, a bearing 75, a fixing flange 76, a lug 77 and a tension spring 78. The bearing 75 is a tubular bronze bearing mounted around the associated upright 3. The fixing flange 76 is a metal flange tightened around the . bearing 75 by means of a screw 79 and a nut. The lug 77 is mounted around the shank of the screw 79, between two nuts. The tension spring 78 is also mounted, at one end, around the shank of the screw 79 and, at another end, to a fixed element secured to the flange, so as to guarantee sufficient contact between the bearing 75 and the respective upright 3. Thus, the electrical connection is ensured between the fixing flange 76 and each positive and negative terminal of the diode 60. Therefore, in use, when the connector assembly 70 is connected to current injection means 8, a current can flow successively in the positive wire 73 integrated into the base 2, in the upright 3 connected to the positive wire 73, in the conductive elements 75-79 integrated into the flange 4 passing through the upper diode 60, in the other upright 3 then in the negative electrical wire 74 integrated into the base 2.

[0099] Alternatively, the uprights made of electrically conductive material could be replaced by uprights made of electrically insulating material, each crossed by an electrical wire.

[0100] A preferred application of the shuttle 1 according to the present invention is in the poultry sector. More specifically, the shuttle 1 according to the invention is particularly suitable for use in sorting eggs O, for example duck eggs, according to their male or female gender. We further emphasize that the shuttle 1 according to the invention is suitable for other separate articles of ovoid shape and could be adapted, depending on the shape and dimensions of the upper 41 and lower 21 cavities, to any other separate article. For this purpose, the shuttle 1 is intended to be used in a machine M, in particular a machine M for automatic sorting of eggs O.

[0101] In a preferred embodiment, such a machine M suitable for sorting eggs O comprises: an egg receiving station, a visiometry station, an egg recovery station, a plurality of shuttles 1 as described above, means 9 for transporting the shuttles 1 and means for gripping the eggs O. We emphasize that the number of shuttles 1 can be any number depending on the number of eggs O that can be gripped by the gripping means. The higher the number of shuttles 1, the higher the rate of the machine M.

[0102] If we now refer to Figures 7 and 8, we can see that the visiometry station comprises current injection means 8 and a plurality of image-taking cameras 10.

[0103] The current injection means 8 are capable of supplying electricity to a plurality of shuttles 1 docked at the visiometry station. The current injection means 8 comprise a plurality of series of three electrical supply contacts 80. These supply contacts 80 project outwards from a power supply unit 81 and are arranged parallel to each other along a longitudinal corridor, the axis of the contacts 80 being perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the corridor. As can be seen in [Fig.7], the three supply contacts 80 of the same series are arranged so as to be able to connect to the three electrical connectors 70 of a shuttle 1. The electrical power supply contacts 80 of the current injection means 8 are complementary connectors of the electrical connectors 70 arranged on the shuttle 1, the electrical power supply contacts 80 and the electrical connectors 70 being able to be put into mechanical and electrical contact with each other. Thus, in the particular embodiment of the invention described above, the electrical connectors 70 arranged on the shuttle 1 are spring contacts and the electrical power supply contacts 80 are complementary contacts of these spring contacts 70. The arrangement of the spring contacts on the shuttle 1 allows easy disassembly of these contacts when their replacement is necessary. Alternatively, the electrical supply contacts 80 could be spring contacts and the electrical connectors 70 could be complementary connectors to these spring contacts. The arrangement of the spring contacts at the current injection means 8, rather than on the shuttle 1, makes it easier to identify faults.

[0104] The term "camera" means any camera for taking pictures, therefore including both a video camera and a digital camera. As can be seen in [Fig.8], the cameras 10 are positioned on either side of the longitudinal corridor. The height position of the cameras 10 is defined such that they are able to capture images of the surface of the egg O left free when the egg O is positioned on the shuttle 1. The cameras 10 are oriented in a horizontal plane such that an egg O positioned on a shuttle 1 can be photographed by four cameras 10, namely a first pair of cameras 10 on a first side of the corridor and a second pair of cameras 10 on a second side of the corridor.In a manner known per se, each camera 10 is associated with automatic analysis means (not shown) capable of analyzing the images generated by each camera 10, in particular capable of determining the gender of the egg O from the images of the cameras 10.

[0105] Thus, in use, once the egg O is held in position on the shuttle 1, the shuttle 1 is brought to the visiometry station to a docking position, in which the shuttle 1 is connected to the current injection means 8. The shuttle 1 then stops at this docking position. During this stop time, the electrical supply to the lighting devices 6i, 6s is controlled in order to illuminate the egg O sufficiently and optimally. In particular, the upper lighting device 6s is powered so as to emit light, for example in the form of a light beam, from above the egg O, the egg O illuminated from above then being photographed by the cameras 10. Then, the lower lighting device 6i is powered so as to emit light, for example in the form of a light beam, from below the egg O, the egg O illuminated from below then being photographed by the cameras 10.Once all the desired images are captured by the . cameras 10, the shuttle 1 is again moved to the next station, namely the egg retrieval station. At the egg retrieval station, depending on the result of the analysis of the images of the illuminated egg, each shuttle 1 is positioned at a predetermined location. For example, the shuttles 1 carrying a male egg are placed on one side and the shuttles 1 carrying a female egg are placed on another side. Thus, in this particular application of the machine, the shuttles can be arranged at the egg retrieval station in a different order from their starting order at the egg receiving station, and this depending on the sex of the egg presented by each shuttle.

[0106] Then, a downstream gripping assembly (not shown) lifts the flanges 4 of the shuttles 1 thus sorted and recovers the eggs O in order to transfer them into an egg tray (not shown) in an appropriate position. The male eggs can be transferred into a male egg tray and the female eggs into a female egg tray. Several shuttles 1 can be moved at the same time, one after the other, and photographed simultaneously by the plurality of cameras 10. Thus, a plurality of eggs O can be observed at the same time and sorted at a high rate. The possibility of illuminating the egg O from above the egg and from below the egg makes it easier to analyze the images by the analysis means, and therefore to achieve reliable and rapid sorting of the eggs O.

[0107] As can be seen in [Fig.7], the transport means 9 of each shuttle 1, allowing its movement from the reception station to the visiometry station, along the corridor of the visiometry station, then to the recovery station, preferably comprise a magnetic levitation plane motor 9 arranged below the base 2 of the shuttle 1. This plane motor 9 can have substantially the dimensions of the lower face of the base 2. Such a plane motor 9 is known per se and allows the shuttles 1 to be moved wirelessly and without a battery.

[0108] In order to ensure correct positioning of each egg O on its shuttle 1, the egg receiving station comprises means for orienting and aligning eggs O from a conventional egg tray. Thus, the eggs O are transferred onto the shuttles 1 by an upstream gripping assembly (not shown) after their passage through these orientation and alignment means.

[0109] Referring now to Figures 9 to 15, it can be seen that these orientation and alignment means comprise at least one egg orientation and alignment tray 11, preferably two trays 11, each tray 11 comprising at least one egg orientation and alignment module 12, preferably a plurality of modules 12.

[0110] As can be seen in Figures 9 and 10, each module 12 comprises a pair of rollers 13 rotatably mounted on a U-shaped support 14.

[0111] The U-shaped support 14 comprises a main plate 14a and two side wings 14b. The two side wings 14b are arranged opposite each other, at each longitudinal end of the main plate 14a, in planes parallel to each other, and perpendicular to the plane of the main plate 14a. Each side wing 14b has a pair of juxtaposed orifices formed through the wing 14b. The axes of the orifices are parallel to each other and parallel to the longitudinal direction of the main plate 14a. The pair of orifices of one of the wings 14b is opposite the pair of orifices of the opposite wing 14b. The orifices are sized to receive an end region of the rollers 13. The orifices of the same pair are spaced from each other by a certain transverse distance.

[0112] The pair of rollers 13 comprises a first roller and a second roller. The first roller is received through two orifices facing the wings 14b and the second roller is received through two other orifices facing the wings 14b. Thus, the two rollers 13 extend in the longitudinal direction of the main plate 14a and their axes are parallel to each other. A plain bearing may be housed inside each orifice, between the wall of the orifice and the associated roller 13. The length of each roller 13 is greater than the length of the support 14, such that each roller 13 projects on either side of the support 14, beyond each wing 14b. The spacing between the rollers 13 is such that eggs O can be received horizontally, in other words with their longitudinal axis parallel to the axis of each roller 13, on and between the two rollers 13. Each roller 13 has several sections of different diameters.In particular, here each roller 13 has three wedging sections 130 and a cylindrical section 131 between the central wedging section 130 and each end wedging section 130. Each wedging section 130 has a general diabolo shape, that is to say that it is essentially made up of two coaxial frustoconical portions 130a tapering towards each other and connected in their small diameter zone by a cylindrical portion 130b). Thus, each wedging section 130 has a narrow central cylindrical portion 130b constituting a groove and widened ends. The wedging sections 130 of the two rollers 13 are juxtaposed in pairs. In other words, each groove 130b of one of the rollers 13 is located in the same transverse plane as a groove 130b of the other roller 13. These wedging sections 130 each allow the longitudinal wedging of an egg O on the module 12.It should be noted that the number of wedging sections 130 can be variable, depending on the number of eggs O that one wishes to process simultaneously.

[0113] To allow the transverse wedging of each egg O on the module 12, a pair of external guides 15 is provided on each side of the pair of rollers 13 at the level of each groove 130b. Each external guide 15 is integral with the main plate 14a and projects above the rollers 13. Two outer guides 15 of the same pair are arranged opposite each other. The transverse distance between two outer guides 15 of the same pair is slightly greater than the maximum diameter of the eggs O so as to prevent any fall of the eggs O received in the grooves 130b.

[0114] To allow the sliding mounting of the module 12, in a transverse direction, therefore in a horizontal plane and perpendicular to the axes of the rollers 13, the module 12 comprises a pair of pads 16. The pads 16 are fixed to the lower face of the main plate 14a.

[0115] To allow the eggs O positioned on the module 12 to automatically orient themselves horizontally and with their small ends oriented in the same direction, the module 12 carries means for counter-rotating the rollers 13 of the pair of rollers 13. These means comprise a set of pinions 17-19, including a first pinion 17, an intermediate pinion 18 and a second pinion 19. The first pinion 17 is integral with the first roller 13 and is mounted around an end region of the first roller 13 which projects outside the support 14. In other words, the first pinion 17 is positioned in the vicinity of the outer face of the corresponding wing 14b. The intermediate pinion 18 is also integral with the first roller 13. The intermediate pinion 18 is mounted around the first roller 13, here between the inner face of one of the wings 14b and the corresponding end wedging section 130.The second pinion 19 is integral with the second roller 13 and is juxtaposed with the intermediate pinion 18. The diameters of the second pinion 19 and of the intermediate pinion 18 are such that the teeth carried by the second pinion 19 mesh with the teeth carried by the intermediate pinion 18. Thus, a rotation of the first pinion 17 in a first direction of rotation causes the rotation of the intermediate pinion 18 and therefore of the first roller 13 in this first direction of rotation, and the rotation of the intermediate pinion 18 in the first direction of rotation in turn causes the rotation of the second pinion 19 and therefore of the second roller 13 in a second direction of rotation, opposite to the first direction of rotation.

[0116] As can be seen in Figures 11 to 13, the or each egg orientation and alignment tray 11 according to the present invention comprises a plurality of modules 12, for example eight modules 12 as described above. Such a tray 11 with eight modules 12 each having three wedging sections 130 can process 24 eggs at a time.

[0117] As can be seen in Figures 11 and 12, the modules 12 are supported by a support frame 110 comprising two guide rails 111 configured to slidably cooperate with the pads 16. The two rails 111 extend in the same horizontal plane parallel to each other and are spaced from each other by a distance corresponding to the distance between the two pads 16 of the same pair. The outer profile of each rail 111 corresponds to the inner profile of each pad 16. Thus, the modules 12 are mounted to move in translation along the guide rails 111 in a direction which is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the support frame 110 and perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of each module 12.

[0118] By way of example, the support frame 110 may have a length of the order of 1 meter and a width of the order of 30 to 35 centimeters.

[0119] As can also be seen in Figures 11 and 12, the support frame 110 also comprises a rack 112 capable of cooperating with the set of pinions 17-19 for driving the rollers 13 in counter-rotation. More precisely, the rack 112 is arranged on one side of the plate 11 in a longitudinal direction parallel to the guide rails 111 so as to be able to engage with the first pinion 17 of each module 12. Thus, a movement of the module 12 in the longitudinal direction of the rack 112 causes the rollers 13 of this module 12 to be put into counter-rotation.

[0120] In order to avoid any risk of contact between the second pinion 19 of one of the modules 12 and the intermediate pinion 18 of an adjacent module 12, in particular in the case where the modules 12 are positioned such that the supports 14 of two adjacent modules 12 come into contact with each other, the intermediate pinion 18 and the second pinion 19 of a module 12 are arranged at a longitudinal end region of the module 12 opposite that at which the intermediate pinion 18 and the second pinion 19 of an adjacent module 12 are arranged.

[0121] As can be seen in Figures 11 and 13, the support frame 110 also carries means for controlling the translational movement of the modules 12 along the guide rails 111. These means are a system for adjusting the modules to the correct pitch configured to allow the translational movement of all the modules 12 simultaneously and with a constant pitch between the modules 12. The adjustment system comprises articulated connecting rods 113, a guide support 114 and two jacks 115. The articulated connecting rods 113 connect the modules 12 together and are articulated around vertical axes, in other words around axes perpendicular to the plane of translational movement of the modules 12.In the embodiment shown, in which the plate 11 comprises eight modules 12, the articulated connecting rods 113 comprise a short connecting rod 113C pivotally connected to each end module 12 and six long connecting rods 113L articulated about vertical pivot axes and between the short connecting rods 113C to which they are pivotally connected. Each long connecting rod 113L is pivotally connected to one of the modules 12. The pivot axis between each connecting rod 113 and the associated module 12 extends from the underside of the main plate 14a, at the center of the main plate 14a in the direction of its length, and perpendicular to this plate. The pivot axis between each short connecting rod 113C and the associated module 12 passes through the short connecting rod 113C at the . at one of its ends. The pivot axis between each long connecting rod 113L and the associated module 12 passes through the long connecting rod 113L at its center. Each pivot axis may comprise a shouldered screw and two plain bearings with flanges on either side of the connecting rod. The articulations between the connecting rods 113 and between each connecting rod 113 and one of the modules 12, together with the sliding mounting of the modules 12, give the assembly of connecting rods 113 an overall pantograph shape, which can fold and unfold like an accordion.

[0122] The guide support 114 is integral with the support frame 110. This guide support 114 comprises a horizontal guide 114 with a U-shaped cross-section extending orthogonally to the rails 111. This guide 114 extends above the connecting rods 113, between the two central modules 12. The hinge axis between the two long central connecting rods 113L is received in this horizontal guide 114, thus making it possible to guide the translational movement of the central axis in a direction parallel to the rollers 13.

[0123] The two cylinders 115 are the actuating means for controlling the movement of the articulated connecting rods 113 and therefore of all the modules 12 connected to each other by the connecting rods 113. The two cylinders 115 extend in a horizontal plane located below the plane of the modules 12. The cylinders 115 have axes parallel to each other and parallel to the guide rails 111. Each cylinder 115 is arranged between a guide rail 111 and the articulated connecting rods 113. Each cylinder 115 has a rod whose head is connected to a yoke carried by the lower face of the main plate 14a of one of the modules 12. In particular, the head of one of the cylinders 115 is connected to the module 12 adjacent to one of the end modules and the head of the other cylinder 115 is connected to the module 12 adjacent to the other end module. Thus, the two cylinders 115 are mounted in opposite directions.

[0124] In use, eggs O are taken from an egg tray, in particular a steel wire tray, by means of gripping tools (not shown), in particular suction cups gripping the eggs O from the side. In the tray, the eggs O are not calibrated and have any position. These eggs O are then placed lying down on the tray 11 according to the present invention, in particular in the wedging sections 130 of each module 12. In the case of a tray 11 with eight modules 12, the eggs O can be transferred by an assembly comprising eight gripping tools, in particular eight suction cups, aligned and spaced apart by a certain pitch, which pitch corresponds to the pitch between the eggs O of the same row in the tray. In this case, before the row of eight eggs O taken from the tray is placed on the tray 11, the module pitch system is activated so that the pitch of the modules 12 is equal to the pitch of the eggs O in the tray.Thus, the eggs O can be easily and correctly placed on the tray 11, each egg O being positioned in a wedging section 130 of one of the modules 12. The counter-rotation of the rollers 13 of each module 12 brings about. then each egg O to be positioned with its longitudinal axis horizontal and its small end towards one of the sides of the tray 11. All the eggs are then in the same position. This correct and identical positioning of the eggs O on the tray 11 subsequently allows the upstream gripping assembly to correctly position the eggs O from the tray 11 on the shuttles 1, and therefore contributes to an optimal presentation of the eggs O transported by the shuttles 1. This optimal presentation allows good quality photos to be taken at the visiometry station, and therefore reliable and rapid sorting of the eggs O.

[0125] As can be seen in Figures 14 and 15, the egg receiving station preferably comprises two trays 11 as described above.

[0126] The two trays 11 are supported on a support frame B. One of the trays, called the upper tray 11s, is supported at a height greater than the other tray, called the lower tray 11i. The difference in height between the two trays 11s, 11i is such that the upper tray 11s can pass above the lower tray 11i. For this, the support frame 110 of the upper plate 11s is fixed, at each of its two longitudinal ends, to a lateral support 116 having a generally L-shape. The support frame 110 of the lower plate 11i is fixed, at each of its two longitudinal ends, to a flat lateral support 117. Each lateral support 116, 117 is carried by two sliders 118. The support frame B comprises four rails 119, including two rails 119 along which the sliders 118 of the lower plate 11i are able to slide and two rails 119 along which the sliders 118 of the upper plate 11i are able to slide.The rails 119 extend over substantially the entire width of the support frame B, in a horizontal plane, parallel to each other and perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the trays 11. Thus, the trays 111 are able to move in horizontal translation in a direction orthogonal to the direction of translation of the modules 12 relative to the support frame 110.

[0127] The translational movement of the two plates 111, 11s along the transverse rails 119 and relative to each other is controlled by a single motor 120 and pulley and belt transmission means carried by the support frame B. The motor 120 has a drive shaft which is coupled, via a reducer 121, to a driving pulley 122. The drive shaft extends along a horizontal axis orthogonal to the four rails 119. An endless belt 123 cooperates with the driving pulley 122 and is stretched between the driving pulley 122 and a driven pulley 124. The driving 122 and driven 124 pulleys are arranged on one side of the frame B, between two transverse rails 119. The lower strand of the belt 123 is integral with the corresponding sliding lateral support 117 of the lower plate 1 li, via a connecting organ.The upper strand of the belt 123 is secured to the corresponding sliding lateral support 116 of the upper plate 11s, by means of another joining member. analogous. Thus, when one of the trays moves in a transverse direction, the other tray moves in the opposite transverse direction. The connecting members are arranged in such a way that the lower tray 1 li and the upper tray They can be positioned next to each other in top view.

[0128] Such a system comprising two trays II, 1 li movable transversely in a synchronous manner makes it possible to place eggs O on one of the trays while taking eggs O from the other tray, and therefore makes it possible to increase the speed of the machine M.

[0129] It is understood that the above embodiments of the present invention have been given for informational and non-limiting purposes and that modifications may be made thereto without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. Claims Shuttle (1) for supporting and lighting at least one object, in particular an object to be sorted such as an avian egg (O), intended to be positioned or moved in a visiometry or optical inspection station, which shuttle (1) comprises a holding assembly (2, 3, 4) configured to support and hold in position the at least one object, and a lighting system (6) configured to illuminate the at least one object, the shuttle (1) being characterized by the fact that: - the holding assembly (2, 3, 4) comprises a base (2) and a flange (4) supported by the base (2), the base (2) comprises at least one seat (20) defining a lower cavity (21) arranged to receive a lower end region of an object and having a lower receiving opening (22) capable of cooperating with the object, the flange (4) comprises, opposite the or each seat (20), an upper cavity (41) arranged to receive an upper end region of the object and having an upper receiving opening (42) capable of cooperating with the object, the lower receiving opening (22) and the associated upper receiving opening (42) being oriented towards each other and along the same axis, in use, the holding assembly (2, 3, 4) being configured to be capable of occupying a spaced-apart position,wherein the or each lower receiving opening (22) and the associated upper receiving opening (42) are spaced apart from each other by a distance allowing an object to be placed on the seat (20) and removed, and a holding position, wherein the or each lower receiving opening (22) and the associated upper receiving opening (42) are brought together by a distance allowing an object to be held and immobilized between the base (2) and the flange (4), with the lower and upper end regions of the object received in the lower cavity (21) and in the upper cavity (41), respectively;, - the lighting system (6) comprises, in at least one of the lower (21) and upper (41) cavities, a lighting device (6s, 6i) configured to emit light towards the associated receiving opening (22, 42); and - the shuttle (1) further comprising electrical connection means (7) comprising an electrical connector assembly (70) accessible from outside the base (2) and an electrically conductive assembly (71-79) forming an electrical path between the electrical connector assembly (70) and the or each lighting device (6i, 6s), such that in use, when the connector assembly (70) is connected to current injection means (8), the or each lighting device (6i, 6s) is capable of being supplied with electricity.

2. Shuttle (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the flange (4) is mounted to move freely vertically with respect to the base (2), the base (2) carrying at least one vertical guide (3) along which the flange (4) is able to slide.

3. Shuttle (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that, for the or each upper lighting device (6s), the electrical path comprises electrical wires (73, 74) integrated into the base (2) and connecting the electrical connector assembly (70) to the lower end of the or each vertical guide (3), the or each vertical guide (3) made of an electrically conductive material and a plurality of conductive elements (75-79) integrated into the flange (4) and connecting the or each vertical guide (3) and the upper lighting device (6s), and in that, for the or each lower lighting device (6i), the electrical path comprises electrical wires (71, 72) integrated into the base (2) and directly connecting the electrical connector assembly (70) and the lower lighting device (6i).

4. Shuttle (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the lighting system (6) comprises an upper lighting device (6s) in the or each upper cavity (41) and a lower lighting device (6i) in the or each lower cavity (21), each upper lighting device (6s) and the associated lower lighting device (6i) being advantageously arranged to emit light beams passing through the common axis of the associated receiving openings (42, 22).

5. Machine (M), in particular an automatic object sorting machine, said machine (M) being characterized by the fact that it comprises at least one support and lighting shuttle (1) according to any one of the re- claims 1 to 4, the machine (M) further comprising an object reception station, a visiometry station and an object recovery station, transport means (9) for moving the at least one shuttle (1) along a path passing through the various stations, an upstream gripping assembly capable of gripping at least one object at the reception station and positioning it in the at least one shuttle (1), and a downstream gripping assembly capable of gripping at least one object in the at least one shuttle (1) and transferring it to the recovery station, the visiometry station comprising a plurality of shooting cameras (10) associated with automatic analysis means and current injection means (8) capable of being connected to the electrical connector assembly (70) of the at least one shuttle (1).

6. Machine (M) according to claim 5, characterized in that the transport means (9) comprise a magnetic levitation plane motor (9) on which the shuttle(s) (1) are arranged.

7. Machine (M) according to any one of claims 5 and 6, characterized in that it is suitable for sorting eggs (0), the receiving station comprising at least one tray (11) for orienting and aligning eggs, the or each tray (11) comprising at least one module (12) for orienting and aligning, the or each module (12) comprising two axially parallel rotating rollers (13) spaced apart from each other by a distance allowing the positioning of an egg (0) on and between the two rollers (13), and a rotation drive mechanism (17-19, 112) configured to drive the two rollers (13) of the same module (12) in counter-rotation relative to each other and towards the inter-roller space.

8. Machine (M) according to claim 7, characterized in that the or each plate (11) comprises a plurality of orientation and alignment modules (12) whose rollers (13) are arranged parallel to each other, the modules (12) are mounted to move in translation along two guide rails (111) parallel to each other and whose axes are perpendicular to the axes of the rollers (13), by means of pads (16) mounted to slide along the rails (111), each module (12) being supported by two pads (16) integral with each longitudinal end of the module (12).

9. Machine (M) according to claim 8, characterized in that the or each plate (11) comprises a module pitch system configured to control the translational movement of the plurality of modules (12) along the guide rails (111) with a constant pitch between the modules (12), which pitch adjustment system comprises a plurality of connecting rods (113) articulated together about axes perpendicular to the plane of translational movement of the modules (12), each connecting rod (113) being integral with a module (12), the articulation axis between two connecting rods (113) called central connecting rods being received in a guide means (114) in translation following a translation direction perpendicular to the articulation axis and parallel to the axes of the rollers (13), two actuating cylinders (115) arranged on either side of the plurality of connecting rods (113), parallel to each other and orthogonal to the axes of the rollers (13) and to the articulation axes, being integral with two modules (12), such that a relative translational movement between the two modules (12) of a predetermined pitch, under the effect of the jacks (115),causes a synchronous translational movement of each module (12) with a pitch between modules (12) equal to said predetermined pitch.,

10. Machine (M) according to any one of claims 7 to 9, characterized in that the or each plate (11) is mounted movable in translation along two transverse guide rails (119), the transverse rails (119) being parallel to each other and parallel to the axes of the rollers (13), each longitudinal end of the or each plate (11) being integral with a lateral support (116, 117) mounted to slide along a respective rail (119), one of the two supports (116, 117) of the or each plate (11) being integral with a synchronous belt (123) stretched between two pulleys (122, 124), one of the pulleys (122) being coupled to a geared motor (120-121).

Images