Apparatus and method for cutting products with a roughly elongated shape.

Abstract

The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for cutting products with a generally elongated shape, such as fruits or vegetables, such as bananas, cucumbers, zucchinis, carrots, yucca, sweet potatoes, taro, malanga, etc. The apparatus includes a main support structure, a conveyor, and a cutting element for cutting the fed products. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a tub for receiving the cut products and containing some suitable fluid (e.g. water or oil) for cleaning the cut products from surface substances such as starch or latex.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention is in the field of product cutting. In particular, the present invention relates to an apparatus for cutting elongated products, especially foods, such as bananas, cucumbers, zucchinis, carrots, yucas, sweet potatoes, taro, malanga, and other elongated products. The present invention also relates to a cutting method using the said apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] For the past three million years, humans have applied cutting tools to food using hand force and movement to achieve the effects we now obtain with machines.

[0003] Cutting of products is a widely known and used technique, especially in the processing of food items. Various types of foods are cut and even processed before being converted by heat treatment such as frying or baking for final sale to consumers.

[0004] On the other hand, fruits and vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, zucchinis, sweet potatoes, bananas, etc. contain unwanted substances such as starch or latex on their surfaces, and it is well known that these foods may impair the taste of the food when they are processed in, for example, a fryer or dehydrator.

[0005] As far as latex is concerned, since a certain percentage of the population has been reported to have an allergic reaction to this component, it is particularly important to remove the said unwanted substances from the products.

[0006] During the conversion step, if the conveyor belt accumulates latex during the transport of the recently cut products, the presence of latex is undesirable during the processing of the products. The cleaning process is cumbersome and requires the work of several hours and several employees.

[0007] Furthermore, latex is detrimental in later steps, such as the lifting step, because its accumulation can cause problems in the equipment and reduce its useful life.

[0008] In the case of bananas, latex is found in all parts of the plant. While the latex is fresh and the fluid can be washed away, after a few hours, the latex becomes sticky and eventually turns into dark stains on the fruit's peel, reducing the quality of the final product.

[0009] While washing with water to remove latex from products like bananas is a widely known method, additional liquids are typically used. These additional liquids, such as BANASPAR-S®, are specifically formulated to remove fresh latex from post-harvest bananas and plantains, thereby preventing them from becoming stained or overripe.

[0010] Furthermore, industries require equipment that enables the automatic and continuous cutting of the aforementioned products, which, given their properties, have a generally elongated shape, thereby avoiding the use of additional equipment that would increase manufacturing costs or dead time in the process due to the need to modify existing equipment.

[0011] Some of the efforts registered in the technical status to resolve the above issues are as follows:

[0012] Document US 6,413,566 describes a slicing process for relatively hard vegetables or fruits, the slicing process comprising feeding the vegetables or fruits through a vertical conveyor and guiding the vegetables or fruits to a centrifugal slicing device, the centrifugal slicing device slicing the vegetables or fruits to obtain slices of the vegetables or fruits, and then unloading the slices of the vegetables or fruits into water, thereby anticipating the slicing process.

[0013] Document US 4,852,441 describes a slicing process for food, particularly for apples, wherein the slicing process involves feeding the food through a vertical conveyor, guiding the food to an axial slicing disk, and the slicing disk slicing the food to obtain slices from the food.

[0014] Document US 5,875,697 describes a conveyor system for transporting food, the conveyor system comprising endless belt conveyors connected to each other by an adjustment mechanism that enables the storage of various food items regardless of their size and shape.

[0015] Document CN 107351141 describes a cucumber cutting device comprising a fastening and cutting mechanism and a feeding mechanism, wherein an annular airbag for the fastening and cutting mechanism is installed between a disc-shaped zipper and a disc-shaped bearing support, the fastening set is uniformly distributed on the disc-shaped bearing support, and several fastening pillars of the fastening set are installed such that they slide on the disc-shaped bearing support through bearing steps.

[0016] The applicant identifies documents KR 1020100116437 and US 2378502 as relating to a food processing apparatus, in particular a rotary slicer, the rotary slicer comprising a housing, the housing having a disk having an inlet and an outlet and a plurality of cutting sheets in a space within the housing, the plurality of cutting sheets slicing food pressed against the plurality of cutting sheets as the disk rotates. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0017] Despite the various alternatives mentioned above, there is a need for an additional solution that is efficient, cost-effective, and flexible for cutting products with a generally elongated shape. [Means for solving the problem]

[0018] The present invention relates to an apparatus for cutting elongated products, the apparatus for cutting elongated products comprising a main support structure, a conveyor, a cutting element for cutting the conveyed product, a drive unit for activating the conveyor, and a drive unit for activating the cutting element. The conveyor comprises at least two transverse belts and at least one rear belt for directing the product toward the cutting element, and the cutting element is positioned adjacent to the exit section of the conveyor. In additional embodiments, the apparatus also comprises a tub for receiving the cut product and containing a suitable fluid for washing the cut product from any unwanted material on its surface, and a base supporting the apparatus and the tub.

[0019] The present invention further provides a method for cutting products sent using the above-described apparatus.

[0020] The present invention relates to an improved apparatus and method that enables cutting elongated products, preferably foods belonging to the group such as bananas, cucumbers, zucchini, carrots, yucca, sweet potatoes, taro, and maranga, at a high speed.

[0021] The cutting apparatus and method of the present invention can adjust the space between the feed belts in real time and in a continuous manner, enabling the feeding of products having substantially elongated shapes and dimensions that may vary from product to product (at a high frequency for the foods of the above group), thereby reducing manufacturing time and costs.

[0022] The cutting apparatus and method of the present invention allow for adjustment of production capacity and are useful for small, medium, and large production machines.

[0023] The cutting device and method of the present invention are simple, efficient, and cost-effective, and in the case of the above-mentioned group of foods, enable the efficient removal of unwanted substances on the surface of the cut products, such as latex or starch, thus avoiding the use of special chemicals for the removal of said substances.

[0024] Finally, the present invention provides assistance in handling and processing cut products by means of an apparatus and method that deliver a clean product (free of unwanted substances) that does not adhere to the walls of the facility, does not stick to the hands of the personnel handling the product, and further gives the product a good appearance for final consumption.

[0025] These and other objectives will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description.

[0026] The accompanying drawings illustrate a preferred embodiment of the present invention having a descending vertical shape.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0027] [Figure 1.1] It is a top right front perspective view of an apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1.2] It is a front view of FIG. 1.1. [Figure 1.3] It is a right side view of FIG. 1.1. [Figure 2.1] It is a top left front perspective view of an apparatus according to an additional embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2.2] It is a front view of FIG. 2.1. [Figure 3.1] It is a top right front perspective view of the main support structure. [Figure 3.2] It is a right side view of FIG. 3.1. [Figure 3.3] It is a front view of FIG. 3.1. [Figure 4.1] It is a top right front perspective view of the conveyor. [Figure 4.2] It is a right side view of FIG. 4.1. [Figure 5.1] It is a front view of FIG. 4.1. [Figure 5.2]This is a rear view of Figure 4.1. [Figure 6.1] This is a detailed cross-sectional view of a spring compressor system installed on the upper part of a conveyor belt. [Figure 6.2] This is a detailed cross-sectional view of a spring compressor system installed on the underside of a conveyor belt. [Figure 6.3] This is a detailed diagram of the static adjustment system that forms part of the spring compressor system. [Figure 6.4] This is a detailed cross-sectional view of a spring compressor system installed on the rear of a conveyor belt. [Figure 6.5] This is a detailed diagram of a section of a spring compressor system installed above the exit of a conveyor belt. [Figure 6.6] This is a top view of the conveyor belt through which products to be cut are sent. [Figure 6.7] This is a detailed diagram showing the connection between the means of transport and the spring compressor system. [Figure 7.1] This is a rear view of the conveyor drive unit. [Figure 7.2] This is a top-right front perspective view of the conveyor drive unit. [Figure 8.1] This is a side view of the drive unit for the cutting element. [Figure 8.2] This is a top-right front perspective view of the drive unit for the cutting element. [Figure 9.1] This is a detailed view of the cross-sectional element located on the base. [Figure 9.2] This is a detailed diagram showing the connection between a cutting element and a device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9.3] This is a detailed diagram of the safety module for the cutting element. [Figure 10.1] This is a perspective view of the tab of the apparatus according to an additional embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10.2] This is an internal view of the longitudinal cross-section of the section of the tab where the submersible pump is installed. [Figure 11.1] This is a detailed view of the lower part of the apparatus showing the process of cutting and exiting the device. [Figure 11.2] This is a perspective view of a submersible pump system. [Figure 11.3] This is a perspective view of a base supporting an apparatus according to an additional embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12.1] This is an internal diagram of a conveyor showing the function of a spring compressor system on a lateral belt. [Figure 12.2] This is a side view of a conveyor showing the function of the spring compressor system on the rear belt. [Figure 13.1] This is a side view of the device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13.2] This is a top view of an apparatus according to an additional embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14.1] This is a process flow of an additional embodiment of the present invention with a horizontal configuration, and a block diagram showing a flow moving to the right. [Figure 14.2] This is a block diagram showing the process flow of an additional embodiment of the present invention, which includes a downward slope configuration. [Figure 14.3] This is a block diagram showing the process flow of an additional embodiment of the present invention with an ascending vertical configuration. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0028] The following explanation is based on uncertain references to Figures 1.1 to 14.3.

[0029] Firstly, it should be emphasized that the accompanying drawings merely illustrate one embodiment for cutting a banana. However, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the present invention can be used for any product having an elongated shape, preferably for foods included in the group described above.

[0030] Secondly, the drawings also show one embodiment of the present invention having a vertical configuration with a downward flow, i.e., the feeding of the product to be cut is performed by the upper part of the apparatus, while the outlet and tab into which the product is washed are located on the lower part. However, as will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description, the configurations include, for example, vertical with an upward flow (feed through the lower part, and exit / washing is performed through the upper part); horizontal to the right or left (feeding and exiting are on the same line); inclined with a downward flow (feed through the upper part, and exit / washing is performed in the lower part); inclined with an upward flow (feed through the lower part, and exit / washing is performed in the upper part), etc. Some of these embodiments are shown by block diagrams in Figures 14.1 to 14.3.

[0031] The term "plural" as used throughout this invention refers to a fixed number of elements that vary between 2 and 20.

[0032] The term "at least" as used throughout this invention refers to the minimum or lower limit being referred to.

[0033] A device according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, as can be seen from Figures 1.1 to 1.3, includes a main support structure 11, a conveyor 13, a drive unit 14 for activating the conveyor 13, a cutting element 20, and a drive unit 28 for activating the cutting element 20.

[0034] The main support structure 11 in Figures 3.1 to 3.3 includes a plurality of recesses 12 for connecting the conveyor 13, each equipped with drive units 14 and 28, to the cutting element 20, as can be seen from Figures 1.1 to 1.3. In additional embodiments, the main support structure 11 may include additional accessories, such as accessories for connecting a conveyor (not shown) for feeding products to be cut in an automatic and continuous manner.

[0035] The conveyor 13 shown in Figures 4.1, 4.2, 5.1, and 5.2 preferably includes a first plate 34 and a second plate 35 that are installed parallel to each other, and the first plate 34 and the second plate 35 have a plurality of orifices for joining the first and second plates together by mechanical fittings 36 such as screws and nuts. A plurality of separators, joined to the first plate 34 and the second plate 35 by the plurality of orifices, determine the distance between the first plate 34 and the second plate. In one embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of separators are a plurality of sleeves, but those skilled in the art will understand that a wide variety of elements can be used for these purposes. In an alternative embodiment, either the first plate 34 or the second plate 35 is welded to the separators.

[0036] The product 9 is fed by a feed section 37, which in the illustrated embodiment is located on the upper part of the conveyor 13, while the product is removed from the conveyor for later transport to the cutting step by an exit section 38, which in the illustrated embodiment is located on the lower part of the conveyor 13. The exit section 38 is located adjacent to the cutting element 20, without regard to the configuration used for the conveyor. Preferably, the feed section 37 has a hopper shape. In fact, although the drawing shows the hopper shape to be located on the first plate 34, the shape may exist on the second plate 35 in an indeterminate manner.

[0037] The first moving means 71 is coupled to move the lateral belt 41 through the front / internal portion of the first plate 34 and the rear / internal portion of the second plate 35, so that the first moving means 71 is installed in the internal portion of the conveyor 13 (Figures 4.1 and 4.2) (Figure 6.6). In a preferred embodiment, the first moving means 71 includes at least two drive pins 39, at least two feed pins 40, at least two compressor pins 26, at least two tension pins 44, at least two free pins 45, and at least two exit pins 46 (Figure 12.1). The coupling of the first moving means 71 to the plates 34 and 35 of the conveyor 13 is done by coupling means, for example, mechanical couplings such as screws and nuts, but those skilled in the art will understand that a wide variety of elements can be used for these purposes. The first moving means 71 has a shaft 27 which is coupled to a spring compressor system 49 (Figure 6.7), as will be described later.

[0038] The first plate 34 of the conveyor 13 has a longitudinal opening in its central portion (Figure 5.2) on which the rear belt 42 is placed, so that the rear belt 42 is fed out through the rear / outer portion of the first plate 34 of the conveyor 13 (Figure 4.2). In a preferred embodiment, the longitudinal opening has a rectangular shape. A second moving means 58 is positioned on the rear / outer portion of the first plate 34, as shown in Figure 12.2, to move the rear belt 42. In a preferred embodiment, the second moving means 58 includes at least two rear upper pins and two rear lower pins, and also has a shaft 27 coupled to a spring compressor system 49.

[0039] As a result, the lateral belt 41 and the rear belt 42 form a path through which the product 9 to be cut can be fed and maintain a single position and orientation without the risk of falling (Figure 6.6).

[0040] Multiple guides 43 (Figure 12.1) help the lateral belt 41 move the product 9 to the cutting element 20 and maintain the product 9 in a set position. The multiple guides 43 can also be moved according to the dimensions of the product 9 to be cut. In one embodiment, the movement is performed from left to right.

[0041] In another embodiment of the present invention, the second plate 35 includes a longitudinal opening that matches the first plate 34 of the conveyor 13, and a window 48 may be positioned over the longitudinal opening to cover it and allow visibility into the interior portion of the conveyor 13 of the apparatus 10. The window 48 is secured by coupling means, for example, mechanical fittings such as screws and nuts, but those skilled in the art will understand that a wide variety of elements can be used for these purposes. In a preferred embodiment, the window 48 has a rectangular shape.

[0042] A conveyor belt spring compressor system 49 according to one embodiment of the present invention (Figures 6.1, 6.5-6.7) includes a plurality of preferably elongated moving chambers, each moving chamber positioned on a base structure 51. Inside each of the plurality of moving chambers are a bush 55 and a spring 54 for applying tension to the shafts 27 of different first moving means 71 of the lateral belt 41, coupled to one end of the bush 55. The spring 54 is coupled at the opposite end to a calibration element 56 to decrease or increase the applied tension. In a preferred embodiment, the calibration element 56 includes at least one calibration screw. As a result, when the spring 54 applies tension to the bush 55 by the calibration element 56, the shafts 27 of the first moving means 71 are moved longitudinally relative to the base structure 51 of each moving chamber to tension the lateral belt 41, as indicated by the arrows in Figures 6.1-6.3.

[0043] The spring compressor system 49 also includes a static adjustment system coupled to the tension pin 44 (Figures 6.3 and 12.1). The static adjustment system includes a base structure 51, a bush 55 coupled to the shaft 27 of the tension pin 44, and a calibration element 56, as well as a plurality of moving chambers. The system does not include a spring because its function is to always maintain the same position and to always keep the lateral belt 41 under tension and to provide a constant pressure equal to the counterpressure of the lateral belt 41.

[0044] In one embodiment, the static adjustment system of the spring compressor system 49 is installed on both lateral belts 41 and on each of the plates 34 and 35 of the conveyor 13.

[0045] Furthermore, the spring compressor system 49 includes a section installed at the outlet of the conveyor 13, which includes a base structure 68 coupled to both outlet pins 46, and a coupling means 57 is installed on the base structure 68 to join the spring 83 to the base structure 68, as shown in Figure 6.1. The coupling means 57 may include a screw or any other element known to those skilled in the art for these purposes. In one embodiment, the spring 83 and the coupling means 57 are installed in the lower chamber 50 of the base structure 68, as shown in Figures 6.5 and 12.1.

[0046] Furthermore, the spring compressor system 49 of the present invention allows for the continuous opening and closing of the space between the lateral belts 41 according to the dimensions and shape of the product 9 being fed, in order to maintain the product in an optimal position for the cutting step and to reduce the amount of residue generated during the cutting step.

[0047] In one embodiment, the spring compressor system 49 is mounted on plates 34 and 35 of the conveyor 13 by screws or any other type of coupling known to those skilled in the art. In an additional embodiment, the spring compressor system 49 includes a cover (not shown) that can hold all elements in place.

[0048] The spring compressor system 49 of the present invention acts on both the lateral belt 41 and the rear belt 42.

[0049] To tension the rear belt 42, the base structure 51, spring 54, bushing 55, and calibration element 56 are also positioned on the rear / outer portion of each end of the first plate 34 of the conveyor 13, as can be seen in Figures 6.4 and 12.2. In this case, the shaft 27 of the second moving means 58 is coupled to the bushing 55. Optionally, a guide 81 can be positioned to help prevent the rear belt 42 from deforming (Figure 12.2).

[0050] The drive unit 14 (Figures 7.1 and 7.2) includes a motor means 15, a transmission system 79 including a pulley 76 connected to the motor means 15, a pulley 77 connected to a gear device 78, a strap 18 for coupling both the pulley 76 and the pulley 77, the gear device 78 including at least two motor gears 16 for transmitting rotational energy to the transverse belt 41, a free gear 17 for changing the direction of motion of the transverse belt 41 of the conveyor 13 and transmitting the required power to the motor gears 16, and a support structure 19 for coupling all front elements to the main support structure 11. In a preferred embodiment, the motor means 15 is preferably a motor. The motor means 15 causes the transverse belt 41 to move at the same speed and torque, but in opposite directions to each other depending on its configuration.

[0051] In the vertical descent embodiment shown in Figures 1.1 to 13.2, the product 9 is moved downward by gravity toward the cutting element 20. In embodiments such as vertical ascent or horizontal movement toward the right or left, the movement is carried out by the action of the lateral belt 41. If necessary, the conveyor 13 may also be equipped with appropriate means, such as a deflector, at the exit section 38 to direct the product 9 to be cut toward the cutting element 20.

[0052] The lateral belt 41 can be activated by the drive unit 14, while the rear belt 42 moves freely without any type of motor as the product 9 is fed while avoiding overlapping as it moves toward the cutting element 20, while allowing the product 9 to remain in a fixed position.

[0053] In the embodiments shown, the cutting element 20 (Figures 9.1-9.3) is installed horizontally and adjacent to the exit section 38 of the conveyor 13. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the cutting element 20 is a disc, such as those sold by manufacturers such as URSCHEL®, and the disc includes a body 21 having a bottom surface shown in Figure 9.1 and a top surface in direct contact with the conveyor 13 (Figures 9.2 and 9.3), and a shaft 22 for connecting the cutting element 20 to the main support structure 11.

[0054] The cutting element 20 is supported by at least two support elements 72, for example, row locks that assist in the calibration and alignment of the cutting element 20. In one embodiment, the support elements 72 are positioned on the top surface of the cutting element 20, as can be seen in Figure 9.2. An upper calibration element 23 and a lower component 24 are installed on the axis 22 to adjust the distance between the cutting element 20 and the lateral belt 41, depending on whether the distance is to be increased or decreased.

[0055] In additional embodiments, the cutting element 20 of the present invention may include a safety module (Figure 9.3) to avoid vibrations that may occur when the cutting element 20 is operating at high speed. The safety module includes a rotating element 53, for example, a box 52 in which bearings are installed, and a stationary element 25, for example, a screw for securing the rotating element 20 to the box 52. The box 52 is joined to the equipment by a coupling element 82 that allows the height of the safety module to be adjusted.

[0056] The function of the safety module lies in a buffering mechanism in which the rotating element 53 applies a normal force to the top surface of the cutting element 20 by the rotating element 53, so that vibrations from the cutting element are absorbed by the rotating element 53. Damage to both the cutting element 20 and the conveyor belt 13 is thus avoided.

[0057] A drive unit 28 (Figures 8.1 and 8.2) activates the cutting element 20. The drive unit 28 includes a transmission system 80 which includes a motor means 29, preferably an electric motor, and a pulley 30 connected to the motor means 29, a pulley 32 connected to the cutting element 20, and a strap 31 for coupling the pulleys 30 and 32 together. However, those skilled in the art will understand that other types of transmission systems, such as friction wheels, chains, etc., can be used. As a result, the motor means 29 transmits the necessary power to the cutting element 20 so that the cutting element 20 rotates and can cut the product 9 as the fed product moves through the cutting element 20. In a preferred embodiment, the rotational speed that the rotating element 20 reaches is 2100 rpm, and as a result the cutting process is almost instantaneous, although the speed can be changed as needed for each process.

[0058] If the speed of the cutting element 20 is as described above, and the speed of the lateral belt 41 of the conveyor 13 can be controlled by two drive units in a variable period, then the present invention makes it possible to adjust the production capacity, and it is important to note that the production capacity can be made appropriate for different purposes and for different sectors, for example, small production machines, medium production machines, and large production machines.

[0059] The support structure 33 of the drive unit 28 also includes a base plate 74 on which a motor means 29 is placed, the base plate 74 having a plurality of elongated grooves 75 to which a plurality of coupling means, such as mechanical couplings such as screws and nuts (Figure 8.2), are coupled to the base plate 74 to the support structure 33 such that the base plate 74 is movable in the longitudinal direction and the tension of the strap 31 can be adjusted to avoid movement problems.

[0060] An additional embodiment includes a tab 59 positioned adjacent to the outlet section 38 of the apparatus 10 described above (Figures 2.1, 2.2, 10.1, and 10.2). The tab 59 can contain fresh water, oil, or any other suitable fluid to receive the cut product, depending on the desired purpose and the type of product being delivered. The cutting element 20 is positioned within the tab 59 containing some fluid for carrying out the cutting process, and the cutting element 20 immediately unloads the product 9 into the fluid, however the cutting element 20 is not completely immersed in the fluid; rather, only a portion of it and the calibration element 24 are in direct contact with the fluid, as shown in Figure 11.1.

[0061] Since these foods may have undesirable substances such as starch or latex on their surface when the tabs come into contact with the food, the tabs preferably contain fresh water to wash the food at the same time as the food is cut. In an alternative embodiment, tab 59 contains oil at room temperature. The oil has the advantage that it can be reused later, for example, when the cut product is cooked in a fryer, because after the cutting step, the product can be introduced directly into the fryer. When the cutting is done in water, a pre-frying step is required, where all the water evaporates, and as a result, no water enters the fryer and does not cause damage. Nevertheless, in addition to removing undesirable substances from the product 9, the water and oil allow the product to be sliced ​​and emerge from the cutting element without being stacked.

[0062] In a preferred embodiment, the tab 59 is inverted pyramidal in shape, as shown in Figure 10.1. At one end of the tab 50, section 60 is extended to accommodate a conveyor belt 65 that will carry the cut product to the outside of the apparatus 10, but those skilled in the art will know that the shape of the tab 59 can be modified according to the needs of the process. In a preferred embodiment, this shape allows both the fluid and any unwanted material generated from the cut product to flow toward section 61 of the tab 59, where an extraction means 62, such as a submersible pump, is installed to transport the fluid containing the product residue through a hose 69 toward the next step in the process (filtration), which will be described later (Figure 10.2).

[0063] In another embodiment, a deflector (not shown) is positioned at the end of a conveyor belt 65 for cut products (Figure 11.1) to guide the cut products toward another step in the process, for example, to the preparation of the products before sale to the end consumer. Similarly, an airflow can be supplied to the outlet of the conveyor belt 65 to push the slices of cut products toward other steps in the process (Figure 11.1).

[0064] To finish cleaning the cut products, a cleaning fluid distributor element 67, such as a sprinkler, is also installed at the outlet of the conveyor belt 65 for the cut products (Figure 11.1).

[0065] Tab 59 may also include a valve 64 to control the fluid level within the tab and prevent spillage, and a purge 63 to discharge the fluid within Tab 59 (Figure 10.1).

[0066] On the other end of tab 59 is a filter belt 66 containing a mesh, which filters all the fluid that is recirculated by the submersible pump 62 through hose 69 before it is recirculated to the cutting element 20 (Figures 2.2 and 13.2).

[0067] As shown in Figures 2.1 and 2.2, the base 70 (Figure 11.3) supports the apparatus 10 having all of the above structural features.

[0068] Method for cutting a product

[0069] The present invention also provides a cutting method for products using the apparatus 10 described above. The method includes the following steps:

[0070] a) A step of sending the product 9 to be cut to the conveyor 13 of the apparatus 10 through the feed section 37.

[0071] When food is involved, it is preferably supplied without peeling and without edges or borders to facilitate the process.

[0072] Preferably, the position of the product 9 in the feed section 37 of the conveyor 13 is such that its longest side is parallel to the conveyor belt 13, as shown in Figure 13.1.

[0073] b) A step in which the delivered product is transported to the cutting element 20 by the conveyor 13.

[0074] c) The spring compressor system 49 described above widens / reduces the distance between belts 41 and 42 of the conveyor 13 according to the dimensions and shape of the product 9 being conveyed.

[0075] d) A step of cutting the product at the cutting element 20.

[0076] In additional embodiments, the process of the present invention also allows for the removal of unwanted material from the cut product by the following steps:

[0077] e) To obtain a cleaned cut product, remove unwanted substances from the cut product by immersing the product in a suitable fluid contained in tab 59.

[0078] When product 9 is cut and immersed in tab 59 containing several fluids, the fluids gradually change their color and / or appearance due to unwanted substances transferred from the cut product. Latex, for example, turns water yellow and oil cloudy.

[0079] To maintain a clean fluid, the fluid must be constantly replaced. The above depends on the type of process and will be determined by those skilled in the art. In the case of oil, the oil can be filtered to remove residues from unwanted substances and then reused in the process.

[0080] f) Step of removing the cut product.

[0081] After removing unwanted substances in the fluid-containing tab 59, the product is ejected from the cutting element 20 by centrifugal force and reaches the conveyor belt 65 for the cut product (Figure 11.1). The conveyor belt 65 for the cut product serves as a filter for separating clean product slices from any unwanted substances remaining in the fluid, in addition to transporting the cut product to the outside of the apparatus 10 toward other possible steps of the process (e.g., frying). In a preferred embodiment, a clean fluid flow is supplied through a distribution element 67 installed at the outlet of the conveyor belt 65 for the cut product to finish the washing process (Figures 2.1 and 11.1). The clean cut product can then be fed to subsequent steps with the help of a deflector and an airflow (Figure 11.1) flowing from the outlet of the conveyor belt 65.

[0082] In another additional embodiment, the method proposed by the present invention also includes the step of filtering and recirculating the filtered fluid to the cutting element 20: namely, g) The step of filtering the fluid containing the unwanted substance and supplying the fluid back to the cutting element 20.

[0083] The fluid containing unwanted material transferred from the cut product crosses the conveyor belt 65 for the cut product and is now directed toward a submersible pump 62, which guides the fluid through a hose 69 toward a filtration belt 66, where the fluid is filtered out of unwanted material from the cut product before being sent back to the cutting element 20. In this way, the knives of the cutting element 20 remain clean and lubricated at all times (Figure 13.2).

[0084] If unwanted substances are removed almost instantaneously (seconds after they are introduced into the tub 59 containing the fluid), the present invention is completed as an efficient cutting and unwanted substance removal system, as a result of the removal, the product will not stick to the walls of the equipment or to the hands of personnel handling the product, the product will have a superior appearance for final consumption, and furthermore, the need to use chemical additives that have the function of removing the said substances will be avoided.

[0085] Modifications of the invention described herein may be anticipated by those skilled in the art. However, this specification relates to preferred embodiments of the invention and is for illustrative purposes only. Modifications that are clearly in the spirit of the invention, such as changes in the shape, material, and dimensions of the features constituting the invention, may be considered within the scope of the appended claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0086] 9 products 10. Apparatus for cutting products with a roughly elongated shape. 11 Main support structure 13 Conveyor 14. Drive unit for activating the conveyor 20 cutting elements 28 Drive unit for activating the cutting element 34. First plate 35. The second plate 36 Means for joining the first plate and the second plate 37 Feed Section 38 Exit Section 41 Lateral belt 42 Back belt 49 Spring Compressor System 58 A second means of moving the rear belt 59 tabs 71. First means of moving the lateral belt

Claims

1. An apparatus for cutting elongated food having a shape and dimensions, the apparatus comprising a first transverse conveyor belt assembly, a second transverse conveyor belt assembly, and a food cutting element, wherein the first transverse conveyor belt assembly has a first transverse belt portion, and the second transverse conveyor belt assembly has a second transverse belt portion opposite to the first transverse belt portion to form a first and second side on either side of a passage for receiving the elongated food and feeding the elongated food to the food cutting element to provide cut food, the apparatus further comprising a back conveyor belt assembly arranged along the first transverse conveyor belt assembly and the second transverse conveyor belt assembly, the back conveyor belt assembly having a back belt portion to form a third side of the passage for stabilizing the elongated food as it moves through the passage, The apparatus comprises a first lateral belt portion, a second lateral belt portion, and a rear belt portion, which form a three-belt configuration having a front opening for facilitating access to the passage, the first lateral belt portion, the second lateral belt portion, and the rear belt portion.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the passage includes an exit section, and further comprises a single spring that opens and closes the space between the first lateral belt portion and the second lateral belt portion in the exit section.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the rear belt portion extends substantially perpendicular to each of the first lateral belt portion and the second lateral belt portion.

4. The apparatus according to claim 1, comprising a support structure, a first spring and moving means for connecting the first lateral belt portion to the support structure, a second spring and moving means for connecting the second lateral belt portion to the support structure, and a rear spring and moving means for connecting the rear belt portion to the support structure, wherein each of the springs and moving means allows movement of at least a portion of the respective belt portion in accordance with the shape and dimensions of the elongated food item traveling through the passage.

5. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein each of the first spring and moving means and the second spring and moving means has a spring for exerting force over the respective first lateral belt portion and the second lateral belt portion, and a calibration means for adjusting the force of the spring over the respective first lateral belt portion and the second lateral belt portion.

6. The apparatus according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the rear spring and moving means include a spring for applying force over the rear belt portion and a calibration means for adjusting the force of the spring over the rear belt portion.

7. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising at least one drive unit for moving the first lateral belt portion and the second lateral belt portion.

8. The apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the at least one drive unit is configured to move the first lateral belt portion and the second lateral belt portion in opposite directions to each other.

9. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a first static adjustment assembly for selectively adjusting the tension of the first lateral belt portion, and a second static adjustment assembly for selectively adjusting the tension of the second lateral belt portion.

10. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a washing unit for receiving and washing the cut food in order to feed the cleaned cut food.

11. A method for cutting elongated food having a shape and dimensions, the method comprising: providing a first transverse belt portion and a second transverse belt portion to form a first side and a second side on either side of a passage; providing a back belt portion positioned adjacent to the first transverse belt portion and the second transverse belt portion to form a third side of the passage; feeding the elongated food to the entrance of the passage; transporting the elongated food through the passage to the exit of the passage; and cutting the elongated food received from the exit of the passage in order to provide cut food, wherein the back belt portion further stabilizes the elongated food being transported through the passage. A method comprising: the first lateral belt portion, the second lateral belt portion, and the rear belt portion forming a three-belt configuration having a front opening to facilitate access to the passage, the first lateral belt portion, the second lateral belt portion, and the rear belt portion.

12. The method according to claim 11, further comprising removing unwanted substances from the cut food with a fluid.

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein the fluid is selected from the group consisting of oil and water.

14. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, further comprising deflecting at least a portion of the first lateral belt portion and the second lateral belt portion according to the shape and dimensions of the elongated food product.

15. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 14, further comprising deflecting at least a portion of the back belt portion according to the shape and dimensions of the elongated food item.

16. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the passage includes an exit section, and further comprises a single spring for opening and closing the space between the first transverse belt portion and the second transverse belt portion in the exit section.

17. The method according to claim 11, further comprising the step of selecting the elongated food from the group consisting of fruits, vegetables, bananas, cucumbers, zucchini, carrots, yucca, sweet potatoes, taro, malanga, and combinations thereof.

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