Flexible product deceleration barrier in fruit and vegetable plants

Abstract

A flexible barrier (30) for product deceleration in fruit and vegetable processing plants, characterised in that it comprises a supporting structure (31) and a flexible cover (32) removably fixed to the supporting structure (31), and where, this barrier is configured as a device for reducing the speed of the fruit stopped by the fall of a fruit and vegetable product and, mainly, in systems for changing levels between different heights in fruit and vegetable processing plants.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] FLEXIBLE PRODUCT DECELERATION BARRIER IN FRUIT AND VEGETABLE PLANTS

[0003] Technical field

[0004] The present invention relates to a device for reducing the speed of the fruit stopping the fall of a fruit and vegetable product, mainly in systems for changing the level between different heights in fruit and vegetable processing plants.

[0005] State of the art

[0006] Nowadays, in the fruit and vegetable sector, and particularly in fruit and vegetable processing facilities, changes of level, or direction, in the product are required. That is, it may be necessary for the fruit or vegetable to move from one area of the plant to another and for these areas to be at different heights. The two most common methods of delivering fruit from the conveyor to the crossbelt are: (a) a one-piece chute spanning multiple conveyor lanes across the width of the sorter, and (b) multiple chutes arranged along the length of the sorter, one per lane.

[0007] These systems can also be used as a change of direction between two pieces of equipment such as two conveyors.

[0008] However, these systems require a fall stop element, so that the fruit remains on the conveyor belt at the lower level by bouncing off this stopper. In the state of the art, there are known buffer systems made of extruded plastic material, which is placed on a flexible support. The problem with this type of buffer is that they use moulded plastic parts that have a complex shape and therefore have places that are difficult to clean, which encourages the growth of residues and bacteria. Furthermore, gripping them is more complicated as this manufacturing process only allows customisation of the length of the system and not its clamping.

[0009] Explanation of the invention An object of the present invention is a device for stopping the fall of a product in a level change system (height change) in fruit and vegetable installations. This object is achieved with the flexible barrier according to claim 1 which accompanies this description.

[0010] The device of the invention comprises a structure that shapes and supports a contact material with the product. However, it lacks rigid parts in the contact area, but is formed by a cover or flexible material, without a structure that rigidities the cover, so that it is the flexible material itself that cushions the blow of the product, minimising any damage to the product.

[0011] Throughout the description and the claims the word "comprises", and variants thereof, are not intended to exclude other technical features, additives, components or steps. To those skilled in the art, other objects, advantages and features of the invention will be apparent in part from the description and in part from the practice of the invention. The following examples and drawings are provided by way of illustration, and are not intended to restrict the present invention. Furthermore, the present invention covers all possible combinations of particular and preferred embodiments indicated herein.

[0012] Brief description of the figures

[0013] The following is a very brief description of a series of drawings which help to better understand the invention and which relate expressly to an embodiment of the invention which is presented as a non-limiting example of the invention.

[0014] Fig. 1 shows a diagram of the flexible barrier (30) for deceleration of produce in fruit and vegetable installations coupled to a conveyor belt (20), object of the present invention, where FIG.Ia shows an isolated diagram of the flexible barrier (30).

[0015] Detailed explanation of one embodiment of the invention

[0016] As can be seen in the attached figures, the device 30 of the invention is coupled forming a certain angle (a) greater than 90° to a structure of a conveyor belt 20 by means of quick release systems on one of its sides, while on the opposite side is shown the flexible barrier 30 for braking the product so that it remains on the conveyor belt 20. The flexible barrier 30 comprises a structure 31 formed by an upper beam 31a joined at its ends to two support pieces 31b configured to be anchored to the conveyor belt structure 20. From the upper beam 31a emanate one or more crosspieces 31c which, at their lower end, will also be attached to the conveyor belt structure 20 in position of use. The flexible barrier 30 is completed by a flexible cover 32 extending from the upper beam 31a to the lower region, which coincides with the lower ends of the crossbars or ribs 31c.

[0017] In short, the flexible barrier 30 of the present invention is formed by a structure 31 supporting a flexible cover 32, so it is a very simple construction and easily adaptable to the requirements. The flexible barrier 30 improves on the state of the art in three key elements: fruit handling, because it prevents bouncing; hygiene, because it is much easier to clean; and reliability, because the flexible cover 32 is much more durable than the foams used in current braking systems. If necessary, add adaptability or customisation, as the manufacturing process itself allows the part to be adapted to the needs with fewer restrictions on dimensions.

[0018] More specifically, it should be noted that the flexible cover 32 performs the function of both the cushioning foam and the casing, by means of a single element that is also durable and flexible. As the flexible cover 32 is free to move laterally on the supports, it provides significant cushioning to the fruit, reducing bounce.

[0019] The 32 flexible cover is secured in place by a quick release system to allow the cover to be easily removed for cleaning, with the option of being replaceable with a set of replacement 32 flexible covers to reduce downtime for cleaning. In addition, there are few surfaces, no porous materials or glued seals that can harbour bacteria. Reliability is improved because the cover material is more durable and does not wear excessively with repeated contact with fruit. The ribs 31c limit the displacement of the plates and fix the position of the flexible cover 32.

Claims

CLAIMS1.- A flexible barrier (30) for product deceleration in fruit and vegetable facilities, characterised by the fact that it comprises a supporting structure (31) and a flexible cover (32) removably fixed to the supporting structure (31).2.- The flexible deceleration barrier according to claim 1, wherein the supporting structure (31) comprises an upper beam (31a) connected at its ends to two support pieces (31b) and crosspieces (31c) which emanate from the upper beam (31a) and are configured to fix the position of the flexible cover (32) and limit its displacement.

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