Product slicer

Abstract

A product slicer includes one or more of the following: An interlock system for the carriage assembly and the gauge plate, a quick-release carriage tray, a belt tensioner system for the drive and transport system, an indexing system for adjusting the gauge plate, a knife cover locking device and / or an end weight system for pushing the product against the gauge plate. The various components, assemblies and features provide for improved operating conditions for the slicer, while optimizing the assembly and disassembly thereof for cleaning and / or maintenance.

Description

PRODUCT SLICERCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 661,324, filed June 18, 2024, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 661,325, filed June 18, 2024, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 661,304, filed June 18, 2024, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 661,317, filed June 18, 2024, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 661,269, filed June 18, 2024, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 661,310 filed June 18, 2024, each of which are hereby fully incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present application relates generally to a product slicer, and more specifically to a product slicer having one or more of an interlock assembly for a carriage assembly and gauge plate, a quick release carriage tray, a belt tensioner, a locking device for a knife cover, an indexing system for the gauge plate, and / or an end weight system, and to methods for the use and assembly thereof.BACKGROUND

[0003] Product slicers are typically configured with a rotatable slicing blade, or knife, an adjustable gauge plate for determining the thickness of a slice cut by the knife and a carriage assembly for moving a product (e.g., food product) relative to the rotating knife. The carriage assembly may include a product holding tray secured to a support arm, with the arm and tray being reciprocally translated, manually or automatically, relative to the rotating knife. Typically, the tray is secured to the arm with a knob or other fastening hardware, which must be manipulated to separate the tray from the arm for servicing and cleaning. In other systems, the entire arm and tray are integrally formed, such that the overall assembly, which may be heavy and cumbersome to maneuver, must be removed for cleaning and servicing.

[0004] In addition, conventional product slicers may lack a system or device for ensuring that the gauge plate is locked out in a closed position, and the carriage tray secured in place, when the tray is removed from the support arm for servicing or cleaning. As such, the knife blade may be exposed and / or the carriage tray may be moveable relative to the knife when servicing the machine.

[0005] Systems configured for automatic reciprocation of the carriage relative to the knife typically include a drive belt driven by a drive motor. The belt is subjected to reciprocating movement, with the tension force in, and drive direction of, the belt being successively reversed. Without proper tensioning of the belt, the system may experience “belt slap,” which may lead to premature wear of the belt.

[0006] The user may be protected from the rotating knife by a ring guard, which extends circumferentially around a portion of the rotating knife, and a cover, which is secured over the face of the knife. Typically, a locking knob is mounted on the cover for securing the cover to the ring guard. The locking knob, which may protrude forwardly from the knife cover, may be susceptible to damage when the knife cover is being removed and / or handled, for example while undergoing cleaning or maintenance operations, and while accessing the knife.Moreover, if the knife cover is dropped, or otherwise mishandled, then the locking knob may be exposed to an impact wherein the locking knob may be damaged.

[0007] The position and orientation of the gauge plate may be adjusted to vary the thickness and evenness of the product slices. If the gauge plate is skewed relative to the knife, the product slices may be uneven, leading to product waste. Typically, the orientation of the gauge plate is not easily changed or manipulated, and may be limited to one or two rotational adjustments.

[0008] Often, the carriage assembly will support an end weight, including a plate that engages the product and an arm supporting the plate and sliding along a guide shaft. Typically, the end weight has a center of gravity spaced relatively far from the shaft, such that the arm is susceptible to binding on the shaft due to the moment applied by the end weight to the shaft. The binding problem may be exacerbated by an operator pressing on the plate. Moreover, forces applied by theoperator may deflect the plate and / or arm, resulting in uneven slicing of the product and / or wedging thereof.SUMMARY

[0009] The present invention is defined by the following claims, and nothing in this section should be considered to be a limitation on those claims.

[0010] In one aspect, one embodiment of a product slicer includes a housing, a knife mounted to the housing and rotatable about a knife axis, a carriage assembly mounted to the housing and configured for reciprocating motion between a first position and a second position, a gauge plate mounted to the housing and moveable between a closed position and a slicing position, and an interlock assembly operably coupled to and between the carriage assembly and the gauge plate. The interlock assembly is configured and actuatable to releasably lock the carriage assembly at the first position and simultaneously lock the gauge plate at the closed position.

[0011] In another aspect, in one embodiment of the product slicer, the carriage assembly includes a carriage tray removably coupled to a carriage arm. The interlock assembly is configured and actuatable to allow the carriage tray to be removed from the carriage arm when the carriage assembly is locked at the first position and the gauge plate is locked at the closed position.

[0012] In yet another aspect, one embodiment of a method of operating a product slicer includes moving the gauge plate to a closed position, moving the carriage assembly to a first position, and moving the interlock actuator from a disengaged position to an engaged position, such that the gauge plate is locked at the closed position and the carriage assembly is locked at the first position.

[0013] In yet another aspect, one embodiment of a product slicer includes a support having a mounting platform with laterally spaced first and second guides extending in a first direction, and a carriage tray having laterally spaced first and second rails moveably engaged by the first and second guides, wherein the carriage tray is moveable in the first direction from a disengaged position, wherein the rails are separated from the guides, and an engaged position, wherein the railsare engaged with the guides. One of the first guide and / or the first rail is moveably mounted on a corresponding one of the mounting platform and / or the carriage tray. The first guide and / or the first rail is moveable from an unclamped position, wherein the first guide and the first rail are moveable relative to each in the first direction, to a clamped position, wherein the first rail is clamped to the first guide and the carriage tray is prevented from being moved in the first direction.

[0014] In one embodiment, the product slicer may include a cam rotatably mounted on the carriage tray, wherein the cam is rotatable between a clamped position, wherein the cam clamps the carriage tray to the mounting platform such that the carriage tray is not moveable to the disengaged position, and an unclamped position, wherein the carriage tray is moveable to the disengaged position.

[0015] In yet another aspect, one embodiment of a method of assembling a product slicer includes moving a carriage tray in a first direction relative to a mounting platform of a support from a disengaged position to an engaged position, wherein the carriage tray includes laterally spaced first and second rails engaged with laterally spaced first and second guides on the mounting platform when the carriage tray and mounting platform are in the engaged position, and when the carriage tray and mounting platform are in the engaged position, moving one of the first guide or the first rail from an unclamped position, wherein the first guide and the first rail are moveable relative to each other in the first direction, to a clamped position, wherein the first rail is clamped to the first guide and the carriage tray is prevented from being moved in the first direction.

[0016] In yet another aspect, one embodiment of a product slicer includes a drive pulley reciprocally rotatable about a drive rotation axis. A belt is engaged with the drive pulley, wherein the belt is reciprocally movable in opposite first and second directions in response to the reciprocal rotation of the drive pulley. A carriage assembly may be coupled to the belt, wherein the carriage assembly is reciprocally moveable in the opposite first and second directions, and wherein the carriage assembly includes a product holding tray, or carriage tray. A belttensioner includes first and second tensioner pulleys engaging the belt on opposite sides of the drive pulley, wherein the first and second tensioner pulleys are rotatable about first and second rotation axes, and wherein the first and second axes are moveable relative to the drive rotation axis. In one embodiment of the product slicer, the belt tensioner includes first and second tensioner pulleys engaging the belt, wherein the first and second rotation axes are adjustably moveable toward and away from each other.

[0017] In another aspect, one embodiment of a method of operating the product slicer includes reciprocally rotating the drive pulley about the drive rotation axis, reciprocally moving the belt engaged with the drive pulley in opposite first and second directions, reciprocally moving the carriage assembly coupled to the belt in the opposite first and second directions, wherein the carriage assembly includes the product holding tray, reciprocally rotating first and second tensioner pulleys about first and second rotation axes, wherein the first and second tensioner pulleys engage the belt on opposite sides of the drive pulley, and reciprocally rotating the first and second rotation axes about the drive rotation axis.

[0018] In another aspect, one embodiment of a product slicer includes a housing and a knife rotatably supported by the housing. The knife has a circumferential knife edge and an outer face. A ring guard is coupled to the housing, wherein the ring guard has a guard portion circumferentially surrounding at least a portion the knife edge and a locking device moveable between a locked position and an unlocked position. A knife cover is moveably disposed over at least a portion of the outer face of the knife. The knife cover is moveable relative to the ring guard between an engaged position and a disengaged position. The locking device is engaged with the knife cover in the engaged position when the locking device is moved to the locked position. The locking device prevents the knife cover from being moved from the engaged position to the disengaged position when the locking device is in the locked position. The locking device is disengaged with the knife cover in the engaged position when the locking device is moved to the unlocked position. The knife cover may be moved from theengaged position to the disengaged position when the locking device is in the unlocked position.

[0019] In another aspect, one embodiment of a product slicer includes a locking device rotatably mounted on the ring guard, wherein the locking device is rotatable between a locked position, wherein the locking device engages the knife cover, and an unlocked position, wherein the locking device is disengaged from the knife cover.

[0020] In another aspect, one embodiment of a method of operating the product slicer includes covering the knife rotatably connected to the housing with a knife cover. The method further includes rotating the locking device mounted on a ring guard between an unlocked position, wherein the locking device is disengaged from the knife cover, and a locked position, wherein the locking device is engaged with the knife cover.

[0021] In another aspect, one embodiment of a product slicer includes a gauge plate coupled to a support post, an index table movably supported by a rail, wherein the index table is moveable along a first axis, and a support hub connected to the support post and defining a second axis. The support hub is coupled to the index table with first, second and third connectors angularly spaced about the second axis. The first and second connectors are axially adjustable, while the third connector has a fixed length, between the support hub and the index table. The orientation of the second axis is adjustable about third and fourth axes in response to the axial adjustment of the first and second connectors.

[0022] In one embodiment, the support hub defines a plane having first and second orthogonal axes, wherein the support hub is connected to the support post and defines a third axis extending transverse to the plane. The support post is rotatably adjustable relative to the support hub about the third axis, and axially adjustable relative to the support hub along the third axis. The support hub is adjustably coupled to the index table, wherein the support hub may be rotatably adjusted relative to the index table about the second and third axes.

[0023] In yet another aspect, one method of adjusting a gauge plate of a product slicer includes rotating a support hub relative to an index table about firstand second orthogonal axes and thereby changing the orientation of a third axis defined by the support hub, rotating a support post connected to the support hub about the third axis, wherein the gauge plate is coupled to the support post, and axially adjusting the support post relative to the support hub along the third axis.

[0024] In yet another aspect, one embodiment of a product slicer includes a housing rotatably supporting a knife and a carriage assembly moveably supported by the housing, with the carriage assembly being moveable relative the knife. The carriage assembly includes a shaft defining a longitudinal first axis and a weight slidably engaging the shaft, wherein the weight defines a bearing spread (BS) acting on the shaft. An arm includes a first end coupled to the weight and a second end coupled to a weighted plate. The weighted plate, the arm, and the weight have a combined center of gravity spaced a distance DI from the first axis, wherein DI < (0.70 x BS).

[0025] In one embodiment, the bearing spread is centered about a centerline defining a second axis perpendicular to the first axis, wherein the center of gravity is spaced a distance D2 from the second axis, wherein D2 < (0.075 x BS). In one embodiment, the center of gravity is spaced apart a distance D3 from a plane defined by the first and second axes, wherein the shaft comprises a diameter D4, wherein D3 < (1.20 x D4).

[0026] In another aspect, one embodiment of a method of operating a product slicer includes rotating a knife supported by a housing, reciprocally moving a carriage assembly supported by the housing relative to the knife, wherein the carriage tray includes a product tray supporting a product, engaging the product with a weighted plate, wherein the weighted plate is coupled to a first portion of an arm, and sliding a weight connected to a second portion of the arm along a shaft defining a longitudinal first axis, wherein the weight defines a bearing spread (BS) acting on the shaft, and wherein the weighted plate, the arm, and the weight have a combined center of gravity spaced a distance DI from the first axis, wherein DI < (0.70 x BS).

[0027] The various embodiments of the product slicer and methods provide significant advantages over other product slicers, and methods for the assemblyand use thereof. For example, and without limitation, the interlock system protects the operator from being exposed to the knife when the carriage tray is being removed, or is removed. For example, the interlock system prevents the carriage assembly and carriage arm from moving, and the gauge plate from moving to a slicing position, if the slicer and knife are inadvertently powered on. In addition, the carriage tray may be quickly and easily removed for cleaning and maintenance without exposing the user to the knife.

[0028] The quick-release rail and guide system provides an easy on / off operation for removing the carriage tray without any attendant loosening or engagement of threaded fasteners or knobs. Rather, a cam may be easily manipulated to release the mounting platform and tray for cleaning and maintenance. In addition, the tray may be removed without having to remove the carriage arm, thereby allowing the operator to more easily maneuver the tray for washing and / or maintenance.

[0029] The transport system, with the first and second tensioner pulleys, provides a balanced tensioning of the reciprocating belt. The dual pulleys reduces the potential for belt slap, which in turn reduces the wear and stretching of the belt and prolongs the life thereof with the attendant reduction in maintenance and downtime.

[0030] The positioning of a locking knob on the ring guard allows for the cover to be removed and washed without exposing the locking knob, for example when being run through an automatic dishwasher or if the cover is inadvertently dropped. The locking knob also is not exposed to repeated washing, and the attendant corrosion, and the possibility of breakage due to mishandling of the cover.

[0031] The end weight system helps to ensure a consistent force is being applied to the product without the introduction of auxiliary forces from the user. The bearing spread and shift of the center of gravity toward the slide shaft allows the system to operate efficiently, and thereby improve the slice quality and consistency of the sliced product thickness. This in turn reduces the likelihood of left-over product wedges.

[0032] The foregoing paragraphs have been provided by way of general introduction, and are not intended to limit the scope of the following claims. The various preferred embodiments, together with further advantages, will be best understood by reference to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of one embodiment of a product slicer.

[0034] FIG. 2 is another front perspective view of the product slicer shown in Figure 1.

[0035] FIG. 3 is a bottom view of the product slicer shown in Figure 1 with a partial section cut.

[0036] FIG. 4 is a rear view of the product slicer shown in Figure 1 with a partial section cut.

[0037] FIG. 5 is a side view of the product slicer shown in Figure 1 with a partial section cut.

[0038] FIG. 6 is a front view of the product slicer shown in Figure 1.

[0039] FIG. 7 is another bottom view of the product slicer shown in Figure 1 with a partial section cut.

[0040] FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of the product slicer taken along line 8 of Figure 7.

[0041] FIG. 9 is an end view of an adjustment cam.

[0042] FIG. 10 is a rear perspective view of a cam lockout.

[0043] FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of the cam lockout shown in Figure 10.

[0044] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an interlock assembly.

[0045] FIG. 13 is a side view of the interlock assembly shown in Figure 12.

[0046] FIG. 14 is a front view of the interlock assembly shown in Figure 12.

[0047] FIG. 15 is an enlarged, partial rear view of the interlock assembly.

[0048] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the interlock assembly taken along line 16-16 of Figure 15.

[0049] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the interlock assembly taken along line 17-17 of Figure 15.

[0050] FIG. 18 is rear perspective view of the interlock knob.

[0051] FIG. 19 is a rear view of a mounting base for the interlock assembly.

[0052] FIG. 20 is an enlarged, partial cross-sectional view of the interlock assembly.

[0053] FIG. 21 is another perspective view of an interlock assembly.

[0054] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a mounting platform coupled to a carriage support.

[0055] FIG. 23 is an exploded view of the mounting platform shown in Figure 22.

[0056] FIG. 24 is a top view of one embodiment of a product slicer.

[0057] FIG. 25 is a front view of the product slicer shown in FIG. 24.

[0058] FIG. 26 is an enlarged, partial view, with portions in cross-section, of a carriage.

[0059] FIG. 27 is a perspective view of the carriage tray assembly.

[0060] FIG. 28 is a side view of the carriage tray assembly shown in Figure 27.

[0061] FIG. 29 is a top view of the carriage tray assembly shown in Figure 27.

[0062] FIG. 30 is a partial, cross-sectional view of an interlock engaged with a carriage tray.

[0063] FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view of a carriage tray.

[0064] FIG. 32 is a bottom view of a carriage tray with a partial section cut.

[0065] FIG. 33 is a side view of the carriage tray with a partial section cut.

[0066] FIG. 34 is an enlarged partial, cross-sectional view of a cam engaging a rail.

[0067] FIG. 35 is an enlarged partial, cross-sectional view of a rail movably mounted to a carriage tray.

[0068] FIG. 36 is a bottom view of a product slicer showing a transport system.

[0069] FIG. 37 is a side view of the product slicer shown in Figure 36 with a cut-away showing the transport system.

[0070] FIG. 38 is a partial, perspective view of the transport system.

[0071] FIG. 39 is a front view of the transport system shown in Figure 38.

[0072] FIG. 40 is a bottom view of the transport system shown in Figure 38.

[0073] FIG. 41 is a side view of the transport system shown in Figure 38.

[0074] FIG. 42 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a ring guard assembly.

[0075] FIG. 43 is a partial, enlarged exploded view of the ring guard assembly.

[0076] FIG. 44 is a cross-sectional view of the ring guard assembly.

[0077] FIGS. 45A-D are different views of locking device for a knife cover.

[0078] FIG. 46 is a perspective view of an indexing system for a gauge plate.

[0079] FIG. 47 is a second perspective view of the indexing system.

[0080] FIG. 48 is a bottom view of the indexing system.

[0081] FIG. 49 is a front view of the indexing system.

[0082] FIG. 50 is a side view of the indexing system.

[0083] FIG. 51 is a first perspective view of an index table and support hub.

[0084] FIG. 52 is a second perspective view of the index table and support hub.

[0085] FIG. 53 is a perspective view of an indexing system.

[0086] FIG. 54 is a partial, exploded view of the indexing system shown inFigure 53.

[0087] FIG. 55 is a front view of the indexing system.

[0088] FIG. 56 is a bottom view of the indexing system shown in Figure 55.

[0089] FIG. 57 is a side view of the indexing system shown in Figure 55.

[0090] FIG. 58 is a plan view of a carriage tray and weight system.

[0091] FIG. 59 is an end view of the carriage tray and weight system shown inFigure 58.

[0092] FIG. 60 is a perspective view of the carriage tray and weight system shown in Figure 58.

[0093] FIG. 61 is a side view of the carriage tray and weight system shown in Figure 58.

[0094] FIG. 62 is a perspective view of the carriage tray and weight system shown in Figure 58.

[0095] FIGS. 63 A and B are rear views of an interlock assembly in an engaged and disengaged position respectively.

[0096] FIGS. 64A and B are cross-sectional view of the interlock assembly shown in Figure 63A and B respectively.

[0097] FIGS. 65 A and B show an embodiment of a product slicer with a knife cover in an engaged and disengaged position respectively.

[0098] FIG. 66 is a plan view of an end weight system.

[0099] FIG. 67 is an end view of the end weight system.

[0100] FIG. 68 is an exploded view of the carriage tray assembly.

[0101] FIG. 69 is a perspective view of the end weight system with a pair of bearings.

[0102] FIG. 70 is an exploded view of the end weight system.

[0103] FIG. 71 is a schematic representation showing the operation of the product slicer.

[0104] FIG. 72 is an illustration of the forces applied by the weight portion.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENTLY PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0105] It should be understood that the term "plurality," as used herein, means two or more. As shown in FIG. 1, the term "longitudinal," as used herein, means of or relating to a length or lengthwise direction 2, for example a travel direction of a carriage assembly 6, and carriage tray 8, relative to a knife 10. The term "lateral," as used herein, means situated on, directed toward or running in a transverse or side-to-side direction. The term “coupled” means connected to or engaged with whether directly or indirectly, for example with an intervening member, and does not require the engagement to be fixed or permanent, although it may be fixed or permanent. The terms “first,” “second,” and so on, as used herein, are not meant to be assigned to a particular component or feature sodesignated, but rather are simply referring to such components and features in the numerical order as addressed, meaning that a component or feature designated as “first” may later be a “second” such component or feature, depending on the order in which it is referred. It should also be understood that designation of “first” and “second” does not necessarily mean that the two components, features or values so designated are different, meaning for example a first direction may be the same as a second direction, with each simply being applicable to different components or features. The terms “upper,” “lower,” “rear,” “front,” “fore,” “aft,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and variations or derivatives thereof, refer to the orientations of the exemplary product slicer facing an operator as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.

[0106] The various embodiments of the product slicer, and components thereof, provide significant advantages over other product slicers. The preferred embodiments accomplish this by new and novel arrangements of elements, materials, relationships, and methods that are configured in unique and novel ways and which demonstrate previously unavailable but preferred and desirable capabilities. The description set forth below in connection with the drawings is intended merely as a description of the presently preferred embodiments of the invention, and is not intended to represent the only form in which the present invention may be constructed or utilized. The description sets forth the designs, materials, functions, means, and methods of implementing the invention in connection with the illustrated embodiments. It is to be understood, however, that the same or equivalent functions, features, and material properties may be accomplished by different embodiments that are also intended to be encompassed within the spirit and scope of the invention. The present disclosure is described with reference to the accompanying drawings with preferred embodiments illustrated and described. The disclosure may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout the disclosure and the drawings. In the figures, the thickness of certain lines, layers, components,elements or features may be exaggerated for clarity. Broken lines illustrate optional features or operations unless specified otherwise. All publications, patent applications, patents, and other references mentioned herein are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.PRODUCT SLICER ASSEMBLY:

[0107] Referring to FIGS. 1, 2 and 71, an embodiment of a product slicer 4 includes a housing 12 that acts as external shell of the product slicer. Furthermore, the housing 12 provides a mounting foundation onto which various product slicer components are attached. Some components may attach to other assemblies and parts which ultimately connect to a portion of the housing, thus reference to components “mounted to,” “coupled to,” “connected to” and / or “attached to” to the housing 12 simply means that the components are ultimately supported by or via the housing, which need not be a direct connection to the housing but may be via connection to, or interaction with, other components.

[0108] In addition to the housing 12, the product slicer 4 includes a circular knife 10 rotatably mounted to the housing 12. The knife 10 rotates about a knife axis 14 located in the center of the knife. Additionally, the knife has a knife cutting edge 16 that is located around the knife's perimeter and which defines a knife cutting plane. The knife 10 has a face 18 that may be covered by a knife cover 20, as seen in FIGS. 1 and 2, during use in order to prevent injury to the end user. The cover 20 may be secured to a ring guard 23 with a locking device 25, as further explained below.

[0109] The product slicer has a carriage assembly 6, which is configured for reciprocating motion past the knife cutting edge 16. The carriage assembly 6 is includes a carriage assembly arm 22, which is slidably attached to the housing 12, and in particular to a shaft 24 extending longitudinally in the longitudinal direction 2 with a slider 27 coupled to the arm 22, as shown in FIG. 62. The carriage assembly 6 is reciprocally movable on the longitudinally extending shaft 24, shown in FIGS. 7 and 47. The carriage assembly 6 may include a carriage assembly handle 26, which may be grasped by a user and provides a hold point forthe user, as seen in FIG. 1. During use, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 71, the carriage assembly 6 cradles the product 36 being sliced while reciprocating motion is provided manually by a user, or automatically by an electric motor, pneumatic motion system, or electromagnetic motion system, otherwise referred to as a transport system.

[0110] Referring again to FIGS. 1, 2, 46 and 71, the variability of product slice 37 thickness is obtained through the use of an adjustable gauge plate 28, which in some embodiments is supported by an indexing system 30. The gauge plate 28 may have a gauge plate bearing surface 32 on which sliceable product rests while cradled in the carriage assembly 6. The bearing surface need not be flat. The gauge plate 28 is configured so that the gauge plate bearing surface 32 is substantially parallel to the knife cutting plane. Additionally, the adjustable gauge plate 28 is adjustable in at least an adjustment direction 31, which in the figures is parallel to the knife axis, from a gauge plate closed position, with the gauge plate bearing surface 32 lying substantially in the knife cutting plane and covering the knife edge, to one or more gauge plate slicing positions where the gauge plate bearing surface 32 is offset from the knife cutting plane and the knife edge 16 is exposed. The adjustment direction need not be parallel to the knife axis. The gauge plate slicing position is not limited to one specific thickness but can be varied based upon the sliceable product and its intended use. For instance, a ham may be sliced in a thickness of less than half of a millimeter to created what is called shredded ham; the ham may be sliced at 1 to 3 millimeters to create sandwich slices; additionally, the ham may be sliced at 7 millimeters or more to created ham steaks.INTERLOCK SYSTEM:

[0111] Referring to FIGS. 1-35, an interlock assembly 34 may be provided to operably couple the carriage assembly 6 and the gauge plate 28. The interlock assembly 34, or system, may be configured to releasably lock the carriage assembly 6 at a first, home position, shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, while simultaneously locking the gauge plate 28 in a closed position, wherein the gauge plate covers oris even with the cutting edge 16 of the knife, such that the cutting edge is not exposed. The home position is the position where the carriage assembly is at a maximum spacing from the knife 10, shown as a leftmost position in the FIG. 1 embodiment, such that product 36 may be positioned in the carriage assembly 6. In this way, the interlock assembly 34 prevents the gauge plate 28 from moving to one of the slicing positions, wherein the knife edge 16 is exposed, and the carriage assembly 6 is simultaneously prevented from being moveable away from or relative to the home position.

[0112] The carriage assembly 6 includes the carriage tray 8, which is removably coupled to the carriage arm 22. When the carriage assembly 6 is locked at the first, home position and the gauge plate 28 is locked at the closed position, the carriage tray 8 may be removed, or decoupled, from the carriage arm 22. When the carriage tray 8 is removed from the carriage arm 22, the interlock assembly is configured to maintain the carriage arm 22 locked at the first, home position while also maintaining the gauge plate 28 in the closed position.

[0113] The interlock assembly 34 includes an interlock actuator 38, configured as a knob, lever or other grippable member. The interlock actuator 38 is moveable between a disengaged position, where the carriage assembly 6 and the gauge plate 28 are unlocked, and an engaged position, where the carriage assembly 6 is locked at the first, home position and the gauge plate 28 is locked at the closed position. In one embodiment, the interlock actuator 38 is moved from the disengaged position to the engaged position by translating the interlock actuator 38 towards the housing along an axis 40 and turning / rotating the interlock actuator 38 about the axis 40, for example clockwise or counterclockwise. In other embodiments, the interlock actuator 38 is moved to the engaged position simply by rotating the interlock actuator about the axis 40, while in other embodiments the interlock actuator 38 is moved to the engaged position simply by translating the interlock actuator 38 along the axis 40. In one embodiment, the interlock actuator 38 may be rotated 90 degrees about the axis 40 between the disengaged and engaged positions. The interlock assembly 34 is prevented frommoving to the engaged position if the carriage assembly 6 is not at the first, home position and / or the gauge plate 28 is not at the closed position.

[0114] In one embodiment, an adjustment member 42, configured as a knob or handle may be coupled to a cam plate 44 for moving the gauge plate 28 between the closed and slicing positions. The adjustment member 42 may be rotated, which rotates the cam plate 44, and ultimately moves the gauge plate 28 in the adjustment direction 31, which in turn causes a movement of the gauge plate 28 between the closed and slicing positions. When the interlock actuator 38 is moved to the engaged position, a shaft 48 extending axially from the actuator 38 is translated along the axis 40 into engagement with an engagement portion of a cam lock plate 46. The cam lock plate 46 is pivotably mounted to the housing 12 with a pivot member 49 defining a pivot axis 51. As the shaft 48 engages and pivots the cam lock plate 46 about the pivot axis 61, a portion of the cam lock plate 46 defines a catch 50, which is pivoted about the axis 51 into engagement with a notch 52 on the cam plate 44, such that the cam lock plate 46, and the catch in particular, prevents further rotation of the cam plate 44. The shaft 48 of the interlock actuator engages the lock plate 46 between the pivot axis 51 and the catch 50, so as to pivot the lock plate 46 about the pivot axis 51. The notch 52 is not exposed or aligned for engagement with the catch 50 unless the adjustment member 42 and cam plate 44 are rotated such that the gauge plate 28 is in the closed position. In this way, the lock plate 46 is not engageable with the cam plate 44 and adjustment member 42 unless the gauge plate 28 is in the closed position. At the same time, the adjustment member 42 and shaft are not translatable along the axis 40 unless the notch 52 is aligned with the catch 50, thereby providing indicia to the user if those components are not aligned. A return spring engages the lock plate 46 so as to bias the lock plate out of engagement with the cam plate 44 when the interlock actuator is translated to the disengaged position. A counter bore on an opposite side of the catch, shown in FIG. 11, defines a spring seat. Referring to FIG. 8, a spring is disposed between the catch 50 and the housing wall.

[0115] The shaft 48 of the interlock actuator 38 may be translated, or moved, into an opening 54 formed in the housing 12 when the carriage assembly 6 is in the home position as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8. Specifically, the shaft 48 may be inserted into and through the opening 54, such that the shaft 48 may engage the lock plate 46. The shaft 48 is only aligned with the opening 54 when the carriage assembly 6 is in the home position. The lock plate 46 is positioned behind the opening 54, and may be engaged by the shaft 48 to pivot the lock plate when the catch 50 is aligned with the notch 52 in the adjustment handle. The interlock actuator 38 is translated against the biasing force of a spring 56, which applies a return force to the actuator when moved to the disengaged position, thereby retracting the shaft 48 of the actuator from the opening 54 as the actuator 38 is moved to the disengaged position.

[0116] Referring to FIGS. 12-30, the carriage tray 8 is removably coupled to the carriage arm 22 via a post 58. When interlock actuator 38 is moved to the engaged position, either by rotation, translation, or both, the post 58 is moved to a retracted position, which allows the carriage tray 8 to be removed from the carriage arm 22. When the carriage tray 8 is removed from the carriage arm 22, the post 58 is locked in the retracted position by a slide, or lock plate 60, coupled to the carriage arm 22, such that the interlock actuator 38 is prevented from being moved to the disengaged position. The support 72 may have a pair of guides 131, shown as protuberances, which are disposed in tracks 133 defined in the lock plate, with the guides sliding in the tracks 133 as the plate slides.

[0117] In one embodiment, the shaft 48 includes a notch 64, or other recess. A bottom portion of the post 58 may be configured as a flat flange 59, or flat, which rides along the circumferential surface 66 of the shaft 48 as the actuator 38 is rotated until the post 58, and in particular the flange 59, slides into the notch 64, thereby retracting or moving the post downwardly along a longitudinal axis 68 of the post 58. As the post drops, a lock plate 60 located adjacent the top of the post, is biased over the top of the post 58 by one more biasing member(s) 62, shown for example and without limitation as a pair of springs. The lock plate 60 is captured in a space defined between the top of the arm 22, which may include amounting platform 72, and a plate 70 connected to the mounting platform 72 and arm, for example with fasteners 74. After the carriage tray 8 is removed, the lock plate 60 is biased in a lateral direction 109 by the biasing members 62 to be positioned over the post 58, thereby preventing the post from moving upwardly. Once the carriage tray 8 is reengaged with the support arm 22, and the mounting platform 72 in particular, the lock plate 60 is moved by the carriage tray 8, or biased inwardly against the force of the biasing members 62, so to expose an opening 96 over the post, such that the post 58 may be raised as the interlock actuator 38 is disengaged.

[0118] In other embodiments, shown for example in FIGS. 63A-64B, the post 58 is moved up and down simply by the translation of the interlock actuator shaft 48 along the axis 40, with a ramp 76 on the shaft 48 engaging and camming the post 58 downwardly and upwardly between the disengaged and engaged positions. In other embodiments, the interlock actuator 38 may be configured with a transmission or gear system such that only rotation of the actuator causes the shaft to move axially and thereby lock the adjustment knob, cam, carriage assembly and move the post downwardly.

[0119] As noted, the interlock system, or assembly, may be actuated to lock out the gauge plate 28 and carriage assembly 6 during the removal of the product carriage tray 8 for cleaning or servicing of the slicer. This may be accomplished through a sequence of operations by the operator. First, the operator moves the gauge plate 28 to a closed position, for example by rotating the adjustment member 42, or knob, and cam lock plate 46, which moves or translates a cam follower 78 coupled to the gauge plate 28. As the adjustment member 42 is moved to the closed position, the notch 52 is oriented so as to be engageable by the catch 50, with the cam follower 78 and gauge plate 28 also moved to a closed position. The operator then pulls the carriage assembly 6 to the home position (leftward most in one embodiment), and pushes in, or translates, the interlock actuator 38 along the axis 40, or translates the actuator 38 and shaft 48 along the axis 40 relative to the carriage arm 22. If the gauge plate 28 is not closed or the carriage assembly 6 is not pulled to home position, the shaft 48will not align with and be moveable through the opening 54, and the lock plate 46, including catch 50, will not be rotatable relative to the adjustment member 42 to engage the notch 52. In this way, the position of the gauge plate 28 and carriage assembly 6 provide indicia to the user that the components are not properly located for maintenance and cleaning. Only when those components are properly located may the interlock actuator 38 be fully moved inward, i.e., translated along axis 40, and then rotated about the axis 40.

[0120] Once the two conditions are met, the interlock actuator 38 may pushed in or translated along the axis 40 against the biasing force of the spring 56. The interlock actuator 38 may also be rotated about the axis 40, for example and without limitation a turn or (90 deg.) in the clockwise direction. In this position, the shaft 48 is engaged with the opening 54 in the housing, which prevents the carriage assembly 6, otherwise referred to as a transport, from being moved from the home position. In addition, the shaft 48 makes contact with the cam lock plate 46, which pivots about the axis 51, with the catch 50 being pivoted into engagement with the notch 52 formed in the cam, thereby preventing the cam from being rotated. The cam 45 actuates the movement of gauge plate 28, so when the cam is locked out, the adjustment member 42 cannot be rotated to move the gauge plate 28 from the closed position to an open, slicing position, wherein the knife edge 16 is exposed.

[0121] In addition, as the interlock actuator 38 is rotated about the axis 40, a post 82 extending radially from the shaft 48 is moved axially in a slot 84 in a base hub 86, shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, until the post 82 may be rotated into engagement with a bearing surface 88. The post 82 engagement with the bearing surface 88 maintains the position of the interlock actuator 38 in an engaged position against the return force of the biasing member 56.

[0122] At the same time, the lock out post 58, extending upwardly in an interior of the support arm 22, moves downwardly, or retracts / translates along the longitudinal axis 68 into the notch 64 formed in the shaft 48, or along the ramped cam surface 76 of the shaft. As shown in FIG. 30, prior to the post moving downwardly, a top end 90 of the post is engaged with a pocket 92 in thecarriage tray 8, and prevents the tray from being removed from the platform 72. As the post 58 moves downwardly out of engagement with the tray, the tray 8 may be removed, as further explained below. As the same time, the lock plate 60 slides and is biased over the top 90 of the post by the biasing members 62. The lock plate 60, or slide, moves over the top of the post, thereby blocking the movement of the lock out post 58 vertically upwardly. This prevents the interlock actuator 38 from being rotated, or disengaged, so as to prevent the carriage assembly 6 from moving and the gauge plate 28 from opening.

[0123] If the carriage tray 8 is installed on the carriage assembly 6 and mounting platform 72 in particular, an edge 94 of the tray 8 biases the lock plate 60 inwardly, thereby aligning the opening 96 with the post 58, such that the post may be lifted into engagement with the carriage tray. The lock plate 60 may include a tapered edge or angled cam surface 101 along an exposed edge thereof, as shown in FIGS. 21 and 23, with the surface 101 being engaged by the tray 8. The operator may thereafter rotate the interlock actuator 38 in an opposite direction, thereby camming the post 58 upwardly as the post 58 rides along the circumference of the shaft and reengages the tray by moving into the pocket 92. At the same time, the post 82 is realigned with the slot 84. The actuator 38 may thereafter be translated by the return force of the spring 56 to allow the lock plate 46 to pivot out of engagement with the notch 52 on the adjustment member 42, shown as a cam knob, and cam 45 by way of return springs, and also retract from the opening 54 in the housing, such the gauge plate 28 and carriage assembly 6, including the arm 22, are again moveable relative to the housing 12 and each other.

[0124] In operation, one embodiment of a method of operating a slicer includes moving the gauge plate 28 to the closed position, moving the carriage assembly 8 to the home position, and moving the interlock actuator 38 from the disengaged position to the engaged position thereby locking the gauge plate 28 in the closed position and locking the carriage assembly 6 in the home position. The method may further include preventing the carriage tray 8 from being removed unless the interlock actuator 38 is in the engaged position, and preventing the interlock actuator 38 from being moved to the disengaged position unless the carriage tray 8 is installed on the mounting platform.CARRIAGE TRAY QUICK RELEASE:

[0125] Referring to FIGS. 22-33, a tray support 100 is connected to, or integrally formed as, the upper end of the support arm 22. The support 100 includes the mounting platform 72, which includes laterally spaced first and second guides 102, 104 extending in a first direction 107. The carriage tray 8 includes laterally spaced first and second rails 106, 108 moveably engaged by the first and second guides. The carriage tray 8 is moveable in the first direction from a disengaged position, shown in FIGS. 31-33, wherein the rails 106, 108 are separated from the guide 102, 104, and an engaged position, shown in FIGS. 27 and 28, wherein the rails 106, 108 are engaged with the guides 102, 104.

[0126] One of the first guide 102 and / or the first rail 106 is moveably mounted on a corresponding one of the mounting platform 72 and / or the carriage tray 8. The first guide 102 and / or the first rail 106 is moveable from an unclamped position, wherein the first guide and the first rail are moveable relative to each in the first direction 107, to a clamped position, wherein the first rail 106 is clamped to the first guide 102 and the carriage tray 8 is prevented from being moved in the first direction 107. In one embodiment, the first rail 106 is moveably mounted on the carriage tray 8 and the guide 102 is formed / defined by the mounting platform 72. It should be understood that the opposite configuration may be implemented with the rail being moveably mounted on the mounting platform and the guide located on the carriage tray. In one embodiment, the first and second rails 106, 108 and the first and second guides 102, 104 define a dovetail joint, shown in FIG. 28. In particular, each of the first and second rails, and first and second guides, have tapered faces 111, 113, 115, 116 that may be mated and engaged to secure the tray 8 to the mounting platform 72. It should be understood that other types of joints, including T or I joints, or circular and / or triangular interfaces, may also be suitable for mating the tray and the mounting platform.

[0127] In one embodiment, the first rail 106 is moveably mounted on the carriage tray 8 or the mounting platform 72, and is moveable in a second direction109 between the unclamped and clamped positions, wherein the second direction is transverse to the first direction. A cam 110 is moveable between first and second positions. The cam 110 is engaged with and holds the first rail 106 in the clamped position when moved to the second position, as shown in FIGS. 34 and 35. In one embodiment, the cam 110 may include a lever rotatable about a rotation axis 112, wherein the lever has a cam surface 114 engaged with a bearing surface 118 formed on the first rail 106 when the cam is moved to the second position. The first rail may include a releasable detent 120, for example a ball 122 biased toward the cam with a spring 124. The cam has a pair of notches 126, 128, which engaged by the detent 120, e.g. ball 122, when the cam is in the first and second positions. The detent 120 provides indicia to the operator that the cam is in the first or second positions. In various embodiments, the lever, or cam, is rotatable less than 180 degrees between the first and second positions, for example less than or equal to 90 degrees.

[0128] The first rail 106 may include an opening 130, wherein the first rail is mounted to the carriage tray with a fastener 132 extending through the opening, wherein the fastener 132 and the opening 130 are shaped and configured to allow movement between the first rail 106 and the carriage tray 8 in at least the second direction 109. For example, the opening 130 may be configured as a slot, or have a dimension greater than an outer dimension of the fastener 133. The first rail 106 may have a plurality of openings 130, shown for example as three, with a plurality of fasteners 132 extending through the openings. As referenced above, as the carriage tray 8 is removed from the mounting platform 72, the lock plate 60 or slide, which is engaged by the side surface of the carriage tray, defined in one embodiment by a side surface 113 of the second rail 108, is released and biased outwardly from the side surface 114 of the guide 102 such that the post 58 is blocked from being moved, thereby locking the interlock system until the carriage tray 8 is returned and is reengaged with, and moves, the lock plate 60 inwardly to again expose the opening 96. In this way, the operator is allowed to safely remove the carriage tray 8 for maintenance and / or cleaning, with worrying about thetransport system being engaged and / or the gauge plate 28 being moved to a slicing position.

[0129] In operation, one embodiment of a method of assembling a product slicer includes moving a carriage tray 8 in a first direction 107 relative to a mounting platform 72 of a support from a disengaged position to an engaged position, wherein the carriage tray 8 includes laterally spaced first and second rails106, 108 engaged with laterally spaced first and second guides 102, 104 on the mounting platform when the carriage tray and mounting platform are in the engaged position. The method further includes, when the carriage tray 8 and mounting platform 72 are in the engaged position, moving one of the first guide 102 or the first rail 106 in a second direction 109 from an unclamped position, wherein the first guide and the first rail are moveable relative to each other in the first direction, to a clamped position, wherein the first rail is clamped to the first guide and the carriage tray 8 is prevented from being moved in the first direction107.INDEXING SYSTEM:

[0130] Referring to FIGS. 46-57, an indexing system 30 includes an index table 132 movably supported by a rail 134 coupled to the housing 12, wherein the index table is moveable along a first axis or in a first direction 136. A support post 138 is connected to and disposed between the gauge plate 28 and a support hub 140. The support post 138 includes a mounting platform 139, which is coupled to and supports the gauge plate 28. The support hub 140 defines a second axis 142. The support post 138, and gauge plate 28 attached thereto, may be rotatably adjustable relative to the support hub 140 about the second axis 142. For example, as shown in FIG. 49, a pair of fasteners 144 may be tightened or loosened to clamp or unclamp the hub, thereby permitting the support post to be rotated. A set screw 147 may further be engaged with the support post 138 to lock the support post once the proper rotational position is determined. In other embodiments, other suitable fasteners may be used to releasably secure the gauge plate to the support post.

[0131] The support hub 140 is coupled to and supported by the index table 132 with first, second and third connectors 146, 148, 150 angularly spaced about the second axis. In one embodiment, the support hub 140 is spaced apart from the index table 132, so as to permit relative rotation therebetween. In one embodiment, the first and second connectors 146, 148 are axially adjustable, while the third connector 150 has a fixed length defined between the support hub 140 and the index table 132. The orientation of the support hub 140, the support post 138, the second axis 142, and the gauge plate 28 connected to the support post, is adjustable about third and fourth axes 152, 154 in response to the axial adjustment of the first and second connectors 146, 148, as shown for example in FIGS. 53-57.

[0132] In one embodiment, the support post 138 is axially adjustable relative to the support hub 140, and may be axially movable relative to the support hub 140 along the second axis 142. The index table 132 includes the cam follower 78, which extends outwardly therefrom. A grippable adjustment member 42, configured in one embodiment as a knob or dial, is rotatably about a fifth axis 156, wherein the grippable member includes the cam plate 44, which is configured with a cam 45, defined as a spiral slot in one embodiment. The cam follower 78 is moveably engaged with the cam. As the cam 45 is rotated, the cam slot moves relative to the cam follower 78 and moves the cam follower 78 and index table 132 parallel to the first axis 136 in response to the rotation of the grippable member and cam 45. The gauge plate 28, supported by the index table 132 and support post 138, is similarly moveable parallel to the first axis, which may be parallel to the knife axis. In this way, the gauge plate 28, and slice thickness, may be adjusted.

[0133] In one embodiment, the support hub 140 includes three flanges 160, 162, 164 extending radially outwardly from a central hub portion 166, wherein the first, second and third connectors 146, 148, 150 are coupled to the three flanges 160, 162, 164 respectively. In one embodiment, the first and second connectors 146, 148 each include a post 172 connected to a corresponding one of the flanges. Each of the first and second connectors may also include first and second nuts 168, 170 threadably engaged with each of posts above and below a correspondingone of the flanges. The first and second nuts 168, 170 may be adjusted to move a corresponding flange up or down relative to a respective post, and thereafter secure the flange to the post. Alternatively, a third nut may be threadably engaged with each post. The post may be rotated relative to the nut so as to axially move the posts relative to the index table.

[0134] In one embodiment, the first, second and third connectors 146, 148, 150, including for example the flanges and posts, are successively angularly spaced 90 degrees relative to each other, with the first and third connector 146, 150 posts 172 being angularly spaced 180 degrees. The connectors 146, 148, 150 may be radially spaced, for example and without limitation at equal distances, from the axis 142. The first and third connectors 146, 150 are aligned along the axis 152 extending parallel to the first axis. The first connector 146 provides left to right adjustment of the gauge plate 28 and the second connector 148 provides front to back adjustment of the gauge plate 28 as the support hub is rotated about the axes 152, 154.

[0135] In one embodiment, the index table 132 is moveably supported by a first rail 134 and a second rail 178 spaced apart from the first rail. In one embodiment, the first rail 134 and index table 132, or a mounting plate 135 secured thereto, have mating profiles, for example defining a dovetail joint. A pair of mounting members 181 are secured to the index table 132 and clamped onto the rail 178. The follower 78 is mounted to and extends from one of the mounting members 181. The mating profile prevents rotation of the index table relative to the second rail 178, while also reducing the height of the overall profile. The index table is moveable on the first and second rails in response to the rotation of the cam 45 as the cam follower 78 is translated along the first axis 136.

[0136] In one embodiment, the support hub 140 defines a plane having first and second orthogonal axes 152, 154, with the axis 142 of the support hub extending transverse to the plane. As noted, the support post may be rotatably adjustable relative to the support hub about the axis 142, such that the gauge plate 28, attached to the support post, is also rotatable. Moreover, the support post 138, together with the gauge plate 28, is axially adjustable relative to the support hub140 along the axis 142, such that the gauge plate may properly aligned with the housing 12 and knife 10. Further, as noted, the support hub 140 is adjustably coupled to the index table 132, wherein the support hub 140 may be rotatably adjusted relative to the index table 132 about the second and third axes 152, 154. The index table is moveable on the rails 134, 178 parallel to the axis 136 defined by the plane of the table. Finally, the gauge plate 28 is also adjustable relative to the support post 138 and support flange 139 toward and away from the knife edge, along the Z axis, which defines a sixth degree of freedom. Fasteners, shown as acorn nuts, may be loosened such that the gauge plate may be translated toward or away from knife edge. In this way, all adjustments of the gauge plate 28 relative to the orientation of the knife plane may be controlled by the indexing system, which provides adjustment over six (6) degrees of freedom, including translation along axes X and Y, and rotation about axes X, Y, and Z.

[0137] In operation, one embodiment of a method of adjusting the gauge plate 28 includes rotating the support hub 140 relative to the index table 132 about the orthogonal axes 152, 154 and thereby changing the orientation of the third axis 142 defined by the support hub, rotating a support post 138 connected to the support hub about the third axis 142, wherein the gauge plate 28 is coupled to the support post, and axially adjusting the support post 138 relative to the support hub along the third axis 142.KNIFE COVER LOCKING DEVICE:

[0138] Referring to FIGS. 42-45D and 65A and B, the knife 10 is configured with the circumferential knife edge 16 and the outer face 18. The ring guard 23 is coupled to the housing 12. The ring guard 23 includes a guard portion 190, configured as a curved bar in one embodiment, circumferentially surrounding at least a portion of the knife edge 16, and a locking device 25 moveable between a locked position and an unlocked position. The ring guard 23 has a base portion 192 supported by and / or secured to the housing 12, for example with fasteners. The ring guard 23 may include a knife sharpener 193, or the knife sharpener may be supported separately from the ring guard.

[0139] A knife cover 20 is moveably disposed over at least a portion of the outer face 18 of the knife 10. The knife cover 20 is moveable relative to the ring guard 23 between an engaged position and a disengaged position as shown in FIGS. 65 A and B.

[0140] The locking device 25 is engaged with the knife cover, when in the engaged position, when the locking device is moved to the locked position. The locking device 25 prevents the knife cover 20 from being moved from the engaged position to the disengaged position when the locking device 25 is in the locked position. The locking device 25 is disengaged with the knife cover 20, when in the engaged position, when the locking device is moved to the unlocked position. The knife cover 20 may be moved from the engaged position to the disengaged position when the locking device is in the unlocked position.

[0141] In one embodiment, the ring guard 23 has at least one first mounting feature 198, while the knife cover has at least one second mounting feature 200 engageable with the at least one first mounting feature 198. The at least one second mounting feature 200 is engaged with the at least one first mounting feature 198 when the cover 20 is in the engaged position. The at least one second mounting feature 200 is disengaged with the at least one first mounting feature 198 when the knife cover 20 is in the disengaged position. In one embodiment, the at least one first mounting feature 198 includes a post 199, and the at least one second mounting feature 200 includes a notch 201, with the post being moveably inserted in the notch as the cover is moved to the engaged position. The locking ring and knife cover may include a plurality of engageable mounting features. The post(s) 199 may include a shaft 202 and a head 204 connected to an end of the shaft, wherein the shaft 202 is received in the notch 201 and the head 204 engages a side surface of the knife cover 20. In one embodiment, the knife cover includes a closed opening 206 receiving a post 208 on the ring guard when the knife cover is moved to the engaged position. In this embodiment, the post 208 may not be configured with a head. The cover 20 may include a grippable member 210, such as a post or knob, which may be grasped to manipulate the cover.

[0142] In one embodiment, the locking device 25 is configured as a knob 214 rotatably connected to the ring guard, wherein the knob is rotatable between the locked and unlocked positions. The side surface of the knife cover may include a ramped surface 71 , wherein the knob initially slides along the ramped surface 71 as the knob is rotated between the locked and unlocked positions. In one embodiment, a biasing element 216, configured for example as a spring, biases the locking device 25 in an axial direction 213 against a side surface of the knife cover. The spring 216 is disposed around a shaft 251 extending through the ring guard, with an end of the shaft 251 threadably engaged with a second shaft 267 extending from the knob 214. An end 253 of the shaft 251 is enlarged, or configured as a head 253. The knob 214 may also have a cam surface 218, or ramped surface, which applies a pressure to the knife cover as the knob is moved (e.g., rotated) to the locked position. While the locking device 25 is shown as rotating, it should be understood that the locking device may be moved between the locked and unlocked positions by translating the locking device, or by rotating and translating the locking device.

[0143] In one embodiment, the knife cover 20 is disposed over at least a portion of the outer face 18 of the knife. The knife cover has a side surface 81. The locking device 25 is moveably (e.g., rotatably) mounted on the ring guard, and is moveable (e.g., rotatable) between a locked position wherein the locking device engages the knife cover, and an unlocked position wherein the locking device is disengaged from the knife cover. In one embodiment, the locking device 25 engages the side surface of the knife cover 20 in the locked position. In one embodiment, the locking device is rotatably mounted on the ring guard 23 and is rotatable between the locked and unlocked positions.

[0144] In operation, one embodiment of a method of operating the product slicer includes covering the knife 10 rotatably connected to the housing 12 with the knife cover 20, wherein the ring guard 23 is coupled to the housing 12 and includes a guard portion 190 circumferentially surrounding at least a portion the knife edge 16. The method further includes moving the locking device 25 mounted on the ring guard 23 between an unlocked position, wherein the lockingdevice 25 is disengaged from the knife cover 20, and a locked position, and engaging the knife cover 20 with the locking device 25 as the locking device is rotated to the locked position. The locking device 25 may be moved by rotating and / or translating the locking device.DRIVE AND TRANSPORT SYSTEM:

[0145] Referring to FIGS. 36-41, the product slicer has a transport system. The transport system is configured with a drive system 250, which includes a drive pulley 252 reciprocally rotatable about a drive rotation axis 254, and a belt 256 engaged with the drive pulley 252, wherein the belt is reciprocally movable in opposite first and second directions 258, 260. A pair of longitudinally spaced pullies 291, 293 support the belt 256 and provide a length thereof for connection to the carriage assembly 6. The drive pully 252 and belt 256 may be toothed or smooth. The carriage assembly 6 is coupled to the belt 256, and is reciprocally moveable in the opposite first and second directions 258, 260 on the shaft 24. In one embodiment, the carriage assembly 6 is releasably coupled to the belt with a connector 262, which may be moved between an engaged position, wherein the belt 256 is connected and reciprocally moves the carriage assembly 6, and a disengaged position, wherein the belt 256 is disconnected from the carriage assembly 6. In the disengaged position, that the product slicer may be operated manually by grasping the handle 26 and reciprocally moving the carriage assembly 6 relative to the knife 10.

[0146] The carriage assembly 6 includes the carriage tray 8, otherwise referred to as a product holding tray. The drive system further includes a belt tensioner 264 having first and second tensioner pulleys 266, 268 engaging the belt 256 on opposite sides of the drive pulley 252. The first and second tensioner pulleys 266, 268 are rotatable about first and second rotation axes 270, 272. In addition, the first and second pulleys 266, 268, and the first and second axes 270, 272, are moveable relative to the drive rotation axis 254. The first and second rotation axes 270, 272 may be adjustably moveable toward and away from each other. In one embodiment, the first and second axes 270, 272 are rotatable aboutthe drive rotation axis 254. The axes 270, 272 may be independently rotatable relative to each other and the axis 254, or may rotate together and simultaneously about the axis 254.

[0147] The belt tensioner 264 may include first and second arms 274, 276 carrying the first and second tensioner pullies 266, 268 respectively, wherein the first and second arms 274, 276 are pivotable about the drive rotation axis 254.The arms 274, 276 extend radially from the pivot axis 254, such that the axes 270, 272 are rotatable about the axis 254. The belt tensioner 264 may include a biasing component 278 disposed between the first and second arms 274, 276, wherein the biasing component 278 defines the angular relationship (a) between the first and second 274, 276 arms, and the axes 270, 272. The biasing component 278 may include a bolt 280 extending between and threadably engaged with at least one of the first and second arms 274, 276. The biasing component may also include, or be configured as a spring, including without limitation, one or more tension, compression, and / or leaf springs. The angle (a) between the arms 274, 276 may be fixed, or may be variable during operation of the product slicer, for example if biased by a spring.

[0148] In one embodiment, the drive pulley 252 is non-rotatably coupled to a driven pulley 282, such that the drive pulley 252 and driven pulley 282 are rotatable together about the drive rotation axis 254. The driven pulley 282 is coupled to a motor 286 with a second belt 284. The gear ratio between the drive pully and the driven pulley may be greater or less than 1:1. The motor 286 is connected to and rotates a second drive pulley 288, which engages and rotates the belt 284.

[0149] In operation, one embodiment of a method of operating the product slicer includes reciprocally rotating the drive pulley 252 about the drive rotation axis 254, reciprocally moving a belt 256 engaged with the drive pulley in opposite first and second directions 258, 260, reciprocally moving the carriage assembly 6 coupled to the belt 256 in the opposite first and second directions 258, 260, wherein the carriage assembly includes a product holding tray 8, reciprocally rotating first and second tensioner pulleys 266, 268 about first and second rotationaxes 270, 272, wherein the first and second tensioner pulleys engage the belt 256 on opposite sides of the drive pulley, and reciprocally rotating the first and second rotation axes 270, 272 about the drive rotation axis 254. The method may further include moving the first and second axes 270, 272 relative to each other, for example by rotating the axes 270, 272 relative to each other about the drive rotation axis 254. In other embodiments, the axes 270, 272 are maintained in the same angular relationship to each other as they are reciprocally rotated about the drive rotation axis 254.END WEIGHT SYSTEM:

[0150] Referring to FIGS. 1, 58-62, 66 and 67, an end weight system 300 is attached to the product tray 8 via a slide shaft 302, or rod. The rod 302 is supported by a bracket 301, having two upstanding flanges 303, coupled to the tray. The end weight system 300 ensures that the product 36 is pushed against the gauge plate 28, and applies an evenly distributed load to a back side 304 of the product 36 carried by the product tray 8. While slicing the product 36, it is advantageous to maintain a face 306 of the end weight system 300, positioned against the product being sliced, parallel to the knife face plane. This parallel relationship along with an effective, consistent force optimizes the likelihood of achieving a uniformly sliced product with reduced thinning of the product front to back (i.e., the sliced product has two parallel surfaces rather than a wedge shape slice).

[0151] In one embodiment, the end weight system 300 includes three components, including the end weight face member 308, which defines the face 306. The face member 308 may otherwise referred to as a weighted plate, which covers and engages as much product 36 as possible. The face member 308 may include a plurality of teeth 311 for engaging and retaining the product 36, which thereby minimizes product movement during the slicing action. In addition, the weighted plate member 308 has a plurality of guides 310, shown as teeth, extending from a bottom edge thereof. The guides 310 engage and slide along a surface of the product tray 8, for example in grooves formed in the product tray.The end weight system 300 may also include an arm 312, which connects the face member 308 to a weighted portion 314, otherwise referred to as a weight, of the system. The size and length of the arm 312 may be varied depending on the slicing application. The weighted plate member 308, or face member, and / or arm 312 may be made of metal, such as aluminum or steel, so as to increase the stiffness thereof without significantly moving a center of gravity (COG) away from an axis 316 of the slide shaft 302.

[0152] The weighted portion 314 of the system provides for an adequate force to be applied by the face member 308 against the product 36 being sliced with a consistent forward feed using gravity without any cogging (binding) of bearings 318, 320 along the slide shaft 302. Although shown as a pair of bearings, a single bearing may be used as an interface between the weighted portion and the shaft, or the weighted portion may simply have an inner surface that rides directly on the shaft, with that inner surface defining the bearing spread.

[0153] The relationship between the contact surface of the end weight face 306, amount of weight used in the weighted portion 314 of the system and the bearing spread (BS), or distance between the reaction force of the bearing(s) 318, 320, may each contribute to the effectiveness of the end weight system in feeding the product 36 into the knife 10 during slicing. In one embodiment, the components are designed such that the end weight system has a center of gravity (COG) maintained as close as possible to the axis 316 of the slide shaft 302. At the same time, the bearing spread (BS) may be varied to avoid cogging, or binding of the weighted portion 314 on the shaft 302. The bearing spread (BS) is defined as the distance between opposing point forces (Fl, F2) equivalent to the distributed load applied by the bearing(s) 318, 320 to the shaft 302, as shown for example in FIG. 72. The point forces (Fl, F2) counter the moment (e.g., M = COG x DI) applied by the center of gravity (COG) of the end weight system 300 to the shaft 302. In one embodiment, the bearing spread (BS) is the distance between the centerline of the bearings 318, 320. Cogging may reduce the effectiveness of force applied to the product 36, and may create an angular shift in the end weight system 300, and the face 306 in particular, which allows theproduct 36 to wedge during the slicing process over the length of the product being sliced, meaning a wedge shaped end portion of the product may be left over.

[0154] Referring to FIGS. 58-64, the carriage assembly 6 includes the shaft 302, which defines the longitudinal first (Y) axis 316 and the weighted portion 314 slidably engaging the shaft 302. The weighted portion 314 or weight, defines the bearing spread (BS) acting on the shaft. The arm 312 includes a first portion 320, which may be an end portion, coupled to the weight and a second portion 322 spaced apart from the first portion, and which may be an end portion, coupled to the weighted face plate 308. The weighted face plate 308, the arm 312, and the weighted portion 314 have a combined center of gravity (COG) spaced a distance DI from the first (Y) axis, as shown in FIG. 66. In one embodiment, DI < (0.70 x BS), such that the center of gravity (COG) is maintained relatively close to the axis 316 so as to reduce the cogging effect. It should be understood that the center of gravity (COG) may be positioned on an opposite side of the Y axis relative to the weighted face plate 308.

[0155] In one embodiment, the bearing spread (BS) is centered about a centerline 324 defining a second (X) axis perpendicular to the first axis 316. The center of gravity (COG) is spaced a distance D2 from the second (X) axis 324. In one embodiment, D2 < (0.075 x BS). In one embodiment, the center of gravity (COG) is spaced apart a distance D3 from a plane defined by the first (Y) and second (X) axes 316, 324, or along a Z axis 326 as shown in FIG. 67. The shaft 302 may be configured with a diameter D4. In one embodiment, D3 < (1.20 x D4). As shown in FIG. 67, D3=0 in one embodiment.

[0156] In another aspect, one embodiment of a method of operating a product slicer includes rotating the knife 10 supported by the housing 12, reciprocally moving the carriage assembly 6 supported by the housing relative to the knife 10, wherein the carriage assembly 6 includes the product tray 8 supporting a product 36, engaging the product with a weighted plate 308, wherein the weighted plate 308 is coupled to a first portion of an arm 312, and sliding a weighted portion 314 connected to a second portion of the arm 312 along a shaft 302 defining a longitudinal first axis 316, wherein the weight defines a bearingspread (BS) acting on the shaft 302, and wherein the weighted plate 308, the arm 312, and the weight, or weighted portion 314, have a combined center of gravity (COG) spaced a distance DI from the first axis, wherein DI < (0.70 x BS).

[0157] In one embodiment, the arm 312 extends in a direction parallel to the second (X) axis 324. The arm may have a hub portion 322. A handle 330 is secured to the arm 312, with a fastener, or shaft 332, that extends through the weighted plate 308, and the hub 322 whereinafter it may be secured to the handle 330. The handle 330 includes an annular shield 334, or guard, and a grippable portion 336. The weighted portion 314 may include first and second longitudinally disposed weights 340, 342. A pair of bearings 318, 320 are installed in the weights, with the bearings and weights in combination defining the bearing spread (BS) in one embodiment. The opposite end of the arm has a second hub portion 320 disposed between the first and second weights 340, 342. In one embodiment, the first weight 340 comprises an end hub portion 346 and a shaft portion 348 extending from the end hub portion. The shaft portion 348 is inserted into and through an opening 350 of the hub portion 320 of the arm 312. The shaft portion 348 extends into, or is further inserted into, a cavity 352 of the second weight 342. In one embodiment, the hub portion 320 is press fit onto the shaft 348, until the hub portion abuts a shoulder 356 of the hub 346. The weight 342 is then press fit onto the shaft 348, sandwiching the arm hub 320 between the weights 340, 342. The bearings 318, 320 may thereafter be disposed in the first and second weights 340, 342. The arm 312 and the weighted plate 308 are rotatable about the axis 316.

[0158] In operation, one embodiment of a method of operating the product slicer includes rotating the knife 10 supported and reciprocally moving the carriage assembly 6 relative to the knife, wherein the carriage tray is supporting a product. The method further includes engaging the product 36 with the weighted plate 308, and sliding the weighted portion 314, or weight, along the shaft 302, wherein the weighted plate 308, the arm 312, and the weighted portion 314 have a combined center of gravity spaced the distance DI from the first axis, wherein DI< (0.70 x BS). The method may further include sliding the weighted plate 308 along a surface of the product tray 8.

[0159] The subject matter of the disclosure may also relate, among others, to the following aspects:

[0160] A first aspect relates to a slicer, comprising: a housing; a knife mounted to the housing and rotatable about a knife axis; a carriage assembly mounted to the housing and configured for reciprocating motion between a first position and a second position; a gauge plate mounted to the housing and moveable between a closed position and a slicing position; and an interlock assembly operably coupled to the carriage assembly and the gauge plate and configured to releasably lock the carriage assembly at the first position and simultaneously lock the gauge plate at the closed position.

[0161] A second aspect relates to the slicer of aspect 1 , wherein the carriage assembly includes a carriage tray and a carriage arm, wherein the carriage tray is removably coupled to the carriage arm, and wherein when the carriage assembly is locked at the first position and the gauge plate is locked at the closed position, the carriage tray is removable from the carriage arm, and wherein when the carriage assembly is not locked at the first position and the gauge plate is not locked at the closed position, the carriage tray is not removable from the carriage arm.

[0162] A third aspect relates to the slicer of aspect 1 or 2, wherein when the carriage tray is removed from the carriage arm, the interlock assembly is configured to maintain the carriage arm locked at the first position and maintain the gauge plate locked at the closed position.

[0163] A fourth aspect relates to the slicer of any preceding aspect, wherein the interlock assembly includes an interlock actuator moveable between a disengaged position, where the carriage assembly and the gauge plate are unlocked, and an engaged position, where the carriage assembly is locked at the first position and the gauge plate is locked at the closed position.

[0164] A fifth aspect relates to the slicer of any preceding aspect, wherein the interlock actuator is moved from the disengaged position to the engaged position, the interlock knob is translated along an axis and rotated about the axis.

[0165] A sixth aspect relates to the slicer of any preceding aspect, wherein the interlock assembly is prevented from moving to the engaged position if the carriage assembly is not at the first position and / or the gauge plate is not at the closed position.

[0166] A seventh aspect relates to the slicer of any preceding aspect, further comprising an adjustment handle coupled to a cam plate, wherein a rotation of the adjustment handle causes a rotation of the cam plate and a corresponding movement of the gauge plate, wherein when the interlock knob moves to the engaged position, a shaft of the interlock actuator pivots a cam lock plate, such that the cam lock plate engages and prevents the rotation of the cam plate.

[0167] An eighth aspect relates to the slicer of any preceding aspect, wherein the carriage assembly comprises a carriage tray and a carriage arm, wherein the carriage tray is removably coupled to the carriage arm with a post, wherein when the interlock actuator is moved to the engaged position, the post is moved to a retracted position, which allows the carriage tray to be removed from the carriage arm.

[0168] A ninth aspect relates to the slicer of any preceding aspect, wherein when the carriage tray is removed from the carriage arm, the post is locked in the retracted position by a slide on the carriage arm, such that the interlock knob is prevented from being moved to the disengaged position.

[0169] A tenth aspect relates to a slicer, comprising: a housing; a knife mounted to the housing and rotatable about a knife axis; a carriage assembly mounted to the housing and configured for reciprocating motion between a first position and a second position, wherein the carriage assembly includes a carriage tray and a carriage arm, and wherein the carriage tray is removably coupled to the carriage arm; a gauge plate mounted to the housing and moveable between a closed position and a slicing position; and an interlock assembly operably coupledto the carriage assembly and the gauge plate and configured to allow the carriage tray to be removed from the carriage arm when the carriage assembly is locked at the first position and the gauge plate is locked at the closed position.

[0170] An eleventh aspect relates to the slicer of aspect 10, wherein the carriage tray is prevented from being removed from the carriage arm if the carriage assembly is not at the first position and / or the gauge plate is not at the closed position.

[0171] A twelfth aspect relates to the slicer of aspect 10 or 11, wherein when the carriage tray is removed from the carriage arm, the interlock assembly is prevented from unlocking the carriage assembly and the gauge plate.

[0172] A thirteenth aspect relates to the slicer of any one of aspects 10 to12, further comprising an adjustment handle coupled to a cam plate, wherein a rotation of the adjustment handle causes a rotation of the cam plate and a corresponding movement of the gauge plate, wherein the interlock assembly includes an interlock actuator moveable between a disengaged position and an engaged position, and wherein when the interlock actuator moves to the engaged position, a shaft of the interlock knob engages and pivots a cam lock plate into engagement with the cam plate so as to prevent the rotation of the cam plate.

[0173] A fourteenth aspect relates to the slicer of any one of claims 10 to13, wherein the carriage tray is removably coupled to the carriage arm with a post, and wherein when the interlock knob is moved to the engaged position, the post is moved to a retracted position, which allows the carriage tray to be removed from the carriage arm.

[0174] A fifteenth aspect relates to the slicer of any one of aspects 10 to 14, wherein the carriage tray is removed from the carriage arm, the post is locked in the retracted position by a slide on the carriage arm, such that the interlock knob is prevented from being moved to the disengaged position.

[0175] A sixteenth aspect relates to a method of operating a slicer, wherein the slicer comprises: a housing; a knife mounted to the housing and rotatable about a knife axis; a carriage assembly mounted to the housing and configured for reciprocating motion between a first position and a second position; a gauge platemounted to the housing and moveable between a closed position and a slicing position; and an interlock assembly operably coupled to the carriage assembly and the gauge plate and configured to releasably lock the carriage assembly at the first position and lock the gauge plate at the closed position, wherein the interlock assembly comprises an interlock actuator moveable between a disengaged position and an engaged position, the method comprising: moving the gauge plate to the closed position; moving the carriage assembly to the first position; and moving the interlock actuator from the disengaged position to the engaged position and thereby locking the gauge plate in the closed position and locking the carriage assembly in the first position.

[0176] A seventeenth aspect relates to the method of aspect 16, wherein moving the interlock actuator from the disengaged position to the engaged position comprises translating the interlock knob along an axis and rotated the interlock actuator about the axis.

[0177] An eighteenth aspect relates to the method of aspect 16 or 17, wherein the carriage assembly includes a carriage tray coupled to a carriage arm, and further comprising removing the carriage tray from the carriage arm when the interlock knob is in the engaged position.

[0178] A nineteenth aspect relates to the method of any one of aspects 16 to18, further comprising installing the carriage tray on the carriage arm, and moving the interlock knob from the engaged position to the disengaged position, such that the gauge plate is unlocked from the closed position and the carriage assembly is unlocked from the first position.

[0179] A twentieth aspect relates to the method of any one of aspects 16 to19, wherein removing the carriage tray from the carriage arm comprises sliding the carriage tray relative to the carriage arm.

[0180] A twenty-first aspect relates to a product slicer comprising: a support having a mounting platform comprising laterally spaced first and second guides extending in a first direction; and a carriage tray comprising laterally spaced first and second rails moveably engaged by the first and second guides, wherein the carriage tray is moveable in the first direction from a disengagedposition wherein the rail is separated from the guide and an engaged position wherein the rail is engaged with the guide; and wherein one of the first guide and / or the first rail is moveably mounted on a corresponding one of the mounting platform and / or the carriage tray, wherein the first guide and / or the first rail is moveable from an unclamped position, wherein the first guide and the first rail are moveable relative to each in the first direction, to a clamped position, wherein the first rail is clamped to the first guide and the carriage tray is prevented from being moved in the first direction.

[0181] A twenty-second aspect relates to the product slicer of aspect 21, wherein the first and second rails and the first and second guides define a dovetail joint.

[0182] A twenty-third aspect relates to the product slicer of aspect 21 or 22 wherein the first rail is moveably mounted on the carriage tray, and wherein the first rail is moveable in a second direction between the unclamped and clamped positions, wherein the second direction is transverse to the first direction.

[0183] A twenty-fourth aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 21 to 23 further comprising a cam moveable between first and second positions, wherein the cam is engaged with and holds the first rail in the clamped position when moved to the second position.

[0184] A twenty-fifth aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 21 to 24 wherein the cam comprises a lever rotatable about a rotation axis, wherein the lever comprises a cam surface engaged with the first rail when the cam is moved to the second position.

[0185] A twenty-sixth aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 21 to 25 wherein the first rail comprises a releasable detent engageable with the cam when the cam is in the first and second positions.

[0186] A twenty-seventh aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 21 to 26 wherein the first rail comprising an opening, wherein the first rail is mounted to the carriage tray with a fastener extending through the opening, wherein the fastener and the opening are configured to allow movement between the first rail and the carriage tray in at least the second direction.

[0187] A twenty-eighth aspect relates to a product slicer comprising: a support having a mounting platform; a carriage tray moveably mounted on the support, wherein the carriage tray is moveable in a first direction from a disengaged position, wherein the carriage tray is separated from the mounting platform, and an engaged position, wherein the carriage tray is engaged with the mounting platform; and a cam rotatably mounted on the carriage tray, wherein the cam is rotatable between a clamped position, wherein the cam clamps the carriage tray to the mounting platform such that the carriage tray is not moveable to the disengaged position, and an unclamped position, wherein the carriage tray is moveable to the disengaged position.

[0188] A twenty-ninth aspect relates to the product slicer of aspect 28 wherein the carriage tray comprises a pair of rails spaced apart in a second direction, wherein the second direction is orthogonal to the first direction, and wherein one of the rails is moveable in the second direction in response to the cam being rotated between the unclamped and clamped positions.

[0189] A thirtieth aspect relates to the product slicer of aspect 28 or 29 wherein the cam comprises a lever rotatable about a rotation axis, wherein the lever comprises a cam surface engaged with the moveable rail when the lever is rotated about the rotation axis such that the cam is in the clamped position.

[0190] A thirty-first aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 28 to 30 wherein the moveable rail comprises a releasable detent engageable with the cam when the cam is in the clamped and unclamped positions.

[0191] A thirty- second aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 28 to 31 wherein the moveable rail comprises an opening, wherein the movable rail is mounted to the carriage tray with a fastener extending through the opening, wherein the fastener and the opening are configured to allow movement between the moveable rail and the carriage tray in at least the second direction.

[0192] A thirty-third aspect relates to a method of assembling a product slicer comprising: moving a carriage tray in a first direction relative to a mounting platform of a support from a disengaged position to an engaged position, wherein the carriage tray comprises laterally spaced first and second rails engaged withlaterally spaced first and second guides on the mounting platform when the carriage tray and mounting platform are in the engaged position; and when the carriage tray and mounting platform are in the engaged position, moving one of the first guide or the first rail from an unclamped position, wherein the first guide and the first rail are moveable relative to each other in the first direction, to a clamped position, wherein the first rail is clamped to the first guide and the carriage tray is prevented from being moved in the first direction.

[0193] A thirty-fourth aspect relates to the method of aspect 33 wherein the first and second rails and the first and second guides define a dovetail joint.

[0194] A thirty-fifth aspect relates to the method of aspect 33 or 34 wherein the first rail is moveably mounted on the carriage tray, and wherein moving the first rail relative to the first guide between the unclamped and the clamped positions comprises moving the first rail in a second direction between the unclamped and clamped positions, wherein the second direction is orthogonal to the first direction.

[0195] A thirty- sixth aspect relates to the method of any one of aspects 33 to 35 further comprising rotating a cam less than 180 degrees between first and second positions, wherein the cam is engaged with and holds the first rail in the clamped position when moved to the second position.

[0196] A thirty- seventh aspect relates to the method of any one of aspects 33 to 36 wherein the cam comprises a lever, wherein rotating the cam comprises rotating the lever about a rotation axis and thereby rotating a cam surface on the lever into engagement with the first rail, and thereby moving the first rail to the clamped position.

[0197] A thirty-eighth aspect relates to the method of any one of aspects 33 to 37 further comprising engaging the lever with a releasable detent when the lever is rotated to the second position.

[0198] A thirty-ninth aspect relates to the method of any one of aspects 33 to 38 further comprising engaging the lever with the releasable detent when the lever is rotated to the first position.

[0199] A fortieth aspect relates to the method of any one of aspects 33 to 39 wherein the first rail comprising an opening, wherein the first rail is mounted to the carriage tray with a fastener extending through the opening, and wherein moving the first rail in the second direction between the unclamped and clamped positions comprises moving the fastener in the opening.

[0200] A forty-first aspect relates to a product slicer comprising: a drive pulley reciprocally rotatable about a drive rotation axis; a belt engaged with the drive pulley, wherein the belt is reciprocally movable in opposite first and second directions; a carriage assembly coupled to the belt, wherein the carriage assembly is reciprocally moveable in the opposite first and second directions, and wherein the carriage assembly comprises a product holding tray; and a belt tensioner comprising first and second tensioner pulleys engaging the belt on opposite sides of the drive pulley, wherein the first and second tensioner pulleys are rotatable about first and second rotation axes, wherein the first and second axes are moveable relative to the drive rotation axis.

[0201] A forty-second aspect relates to the product slicer of aspect 41 wherein the first and second axes are rotatable about the drive rotation axis.

[0202] A forty-third aspect relates to the product slicer of aspect 41 or 42 wherein the belt tensioner comprises first and second arms carrying the first and second tensioner pullies respectively, wherein the first and second arms are pivotable about the drive rotation axis.

[0203] A forty-fourth aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 41 to 43 wherein the belt tensioner comprises a biasing component disposed between the first and second arms, wherein the biasing component defines the angular relationship between the first and second axes arms.

[0204] A forty-fifth aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 41 to 44 wherein the biasing component comprises a bolt extending between and threadably engaged with at least one of the first and second arms.

[0205] A forty-sixth aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 41 to 45 wherein the biasing component comprises a spring.

[0206] A forty-seventh aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 41 to 46 wherein the belt comprises a first belt, wherein the drive pulley is non-rotatably coupled to a driven pulley, wherein the drive pulley and driven pulley are rotatable about the drive rotation axis, and wherein the driven pulley is coupled to a motor with a second belt.

[0207] A forty-eighth aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 41 to 47 wherein the motor comprises a second drive pulley engaged with the second belt.

[0208] A forty-ninth aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 41 to 48 wherein the carriage assembly is releasably coupled to the belt.

[0209] A fiftieth aspect relates to a product slicer comprising: a drive pulley reciprocally rotatable about a drive rotation axis; a belt engaged with the drive pulley, wherein the belt is reciprocally movable in opposite first and second directions; a carriage assembly coupled to the belt, wherein the carriage assembly is reciprocally moveable in the opposite first and second directions, and wherein the carriage assembly comprises a product holding tray; and a belt tensioner comprising first and second tensioner pulleys engaging the belt, wherein the first and second tensioner pulleys are rotatable about first and second rotation axes, and wherein the first and second rotation axes are adjustably moveable toward and away from each other.

[0210] A fifty-first aspect relates to the product slicer of aspect 50 wherein the first and second rotation axes are rotatable about the drive rotation axis.

[0211] A fifty-second aspect relates to the product slicer of aspect 50 or 51 wherein the belt tensioner comprises first and second carrying the first and second tensioner pullies respectively, wherein the first and second arms are pivotable about the drive rotation axis.

[0212] A fifty-third aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 50 to 52 wherein the belt tensioner comprises a biasing component disposed between the first and second tensioner pulleys, wherein the biasing component defines the positional relationship between the first and second rotation axes.

[0213] A fifth-fourth aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 50 to 53 wherein the belt comprises a first belt, wherein the drive pulley is non-rotatably coupled to a driven pulley, wherein the drive pulley and driven pulley are rotatable about the drive rotation axis, and wherein the driven pulley is coupled to a motor with a second belt.

[0214] A fifty-fifth aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 50 to 54 wherein the carriage assembly is releasably coupled to the belt.

[0215] A fifty- sixth aspect relates to a method of operating a product slicer comprising: reciprocally rotating a drive pulley about a drive rotation axis; reciprocally moving a belt engaged with the drive pulley in opposite first and second directions; reciprocally moving a carriage assembly coupled to the belt in the opposite first and second directions, wherein the carriage assembly comprises a product holding tray; reciprocally rotating first and second tensioner pulleys about first and second rotation axes, wherein the first and second tensioner pulleys engage the belt on opposite sides of the drive pulley; and reciprocally rotating the first and second rotation axes about the drive rotation axis.

[0216] A fifty- seventh aspect relates to the method of aspect 56 further comprising first and second arms carrying the first and second tensioner pullies respectively, wherein reciprocally rotating the first and second rotation axes about the drive rotation axis comprises reciprocally pivoting the first and second arms about the drive rotation axis.

[0217] A fifty-eighth aspect relates to the method of aspect 56 or 57 further comprising adjusting the angular relationship between the first and second arms.

[0218] A fifty-ninth aspect relates to the method of any one of aspects 56 to58 wherein the belt comprises a first belt, wherein the drive pulley is non-rotatably coupled to a driven pulley, and further comprising reciprocally rotating the driven pulley with a second belt coupled to a motor.

[0219] A sixtieth aspect relates to the method of any one of aspects 56 to59 further comprising decoupling the carriage assembly from the belt.

[0220] A sixty-first aspect relates to a product slicer comprising: a housing; a knife rotatably supported by the housing, wherein the knife comprises acircumferential knife edge and an outer face; a ring guard coupled to the housing, wherein the ring guard comprises a guard portion circumferentially surrounding at least a portion the knife edge, and a locking device moveable between a locked position and an unlocked position; and a knife cover moveably disposed over at least a portion of the outer face of the knife, wherein the knife cover is moveable relative to the ring guard between an engaged position and a disengaged position, and wherein the locking device is engaged with the knife cover in the engaged position when the locking device is moved to the locked position, wherein the locking device prevents the knife cover from being moved from the engaged position to the disengaged position when the locking device is in the locked position, and wherein the locking device is disengaged with the knife cover in the engaged position when the locking device is moved to the unlocked position such that the knife cover may be moved from the engaged position to the disengaged position.

[0221] A sixty-second aspect relates to the product slicer of aspect 61 wherein the ring guard comprises at least one first mounting feature and wherein the knife cover comprises at least one second mounting feature engageable with the at least one first mounting feature, wherein the at least one second mounting feature is engaged with the at least one first mounting feature when the knife cover is moved to the engaged position, and wherein the at least one second mounting feature is disengaged with the at least one first mounting feature when the knife cover is moved to the disengaged position.

[0222] A sixty-third aspect relates to the product slicer of aspect 61 or 62 wherein the at least one first mounting feature comprises a post, and wherein the at least one second mounting feature comprises a notch.

[0223] A sixty-fourth aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 61 to 63 wherein at least a second first mounting feature comprises a second post, and wherein at least a second mounting feature comprises a closed opening receiving the second post when the knife cover is moved to the engaged position.

[0224] A sixty-fifth aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 61 to 64 wherein the post comprises a shaft and a head connected to an end of the shaft, wherein the shaft is received in the notch and the head engages a side surface of the knife cover.

[0225] A sixty-sixth aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 61 to 65 wherein the at least one first mounting feature comprises a plurality of first mounting features and the at least one second mounting feature comprises a plurality of second mounting features.

[0226] A sixty-seventh aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 61 to 66 wherein the locking device comprises a knob rotatably connected to the ring guard, wherein the knob is rotatable between the locked and unlocked positions.

[0227] A sixty-eighth aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 61 to 67 wherein the knob comprises a cam surface, wherein the cam surface slides along a side surface of the knife cover surface as the knob is rotated between the locked and unlocked positions.

[0228] A sixty-ninth aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 61 to 68 wherein a spring biases the knob in an axial direction against the side surface of the knife cover.

[0229] A seventieth aspect relates to a product slicer comprising: a housing; a knife rotatably supported by the housing, wherein the knife comprises a circumferential knife edge and an outer face; a knife cover disposed over at least a portion of the outer face of the knife and having a side surface; a ring guard coupled to the housing, wherein the ring guard comprises a guard portion circumferentially surrounding at least a portion the knife edge; and a locking device rotatably mounted on the ring guard, wherein the locking device is rotatable between a locked position wherein the locking device engages the knife cover, and an unlocked position wherein the locking device is disengaged from the knife cover.

[0230] A seventy-first aspect relates to the product slicer of aspect 70 wherein the locking device engages a side surface of the knife cover in the locked position.

[0231] A seventy- second aspect relates to the product slicer of aspect 70 or 71 wherein knob comprises a cam surface, wherein the cam surface slides along the side surface as the knob is rotated between the locked and unlocked positions.

[0232] A seventy-third aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 70 to 72 wherein a spring biases the knob in an axial direction against the side surface of the knife cover.

[0233] A seventy-fourth aspect relates to a method of operating a product slicer comprising: covering a knife rotatably connected to a housing with a knife cover, wherein a ring guard is coupled to the housing and comprises a guard portion circumferentially surrounding at least a portion the knife edge; moving a locking device mounted on the ring guard between an unlocked position, wherein the locking device is disengaged from the knife cover, and a locked position; and engaging the knife cover with the locking device as the locking device is moved to the locked position.

[0234] A seventy-fifth aspect relates to the method of aspect 74 wherein moving the locking device comprises rotating the locking device.

[0235] A seventh- sixth aspect relates to the method of aspect 74 or 75 wherein engaging the knife cover with the locking device comprises engaging a side surface of the knife cover with the locking device.

[0236] A seventy- seventh aspect relates to the method of any one of aspects 74 to 76 wherein locking device comprises a cam surface, and wherein rotating the locking device comprise sliding the cam surface along the side surface of the knife cover.

[0237] A seventy-eighth aspect relates to the method of any one of aspects 74 to 77 further comprising biasing the locking device in an axial direction against the side surface of the knife cover.

[0238] A seventy-ninth aspect relates to the method of any one of aspects 74 to 78 wherein covering the knife with the knife cover comprises engaging atleast one first mounting feature on the ring guard with at least one second mounting feature on the knife cover.

[0239] An eightieth aspect relates to the method of any one of aspects 74 to 79 wherein engaging the at least one first mounting feature on the ring guard with the at least one second mounting feature on the knife cover comprises inserting a post on the ring guard into a notch on the knife cover.

[0240] An eighty-first aspect relates to a product slicer comprising: a gauge plate coupled to a support post; an index table movably supported by a rail, wherein the index table is moveable along a first axis; and a support hub connected to the support post and defining a second axis, wherein the support hub is spaced apart from and coupled to the index table with first, second and third connectors spaced angularly about the second axis, wherein the first and second connectors are axially adjustable, and wherein the third connector has a fixed length defined between the support hub and the index table, and wherein an orientation of the second axis is adjustable about third and fourth axes in response to the axial adjustment of the first and second connectors.

[0241] An eighty- second aspect relates to the product slicer of aspect 81 wherein the support post is axially adjustable relative to the support hub.

[0242] An eighty-third aspect relates to the product slicer of aspect 81 or 82 wherein the index table comprises a cam follower, and further comprising a grippable member rotatably about a fifth axis, wherein the grippable member comprises a cam, wherein the cam follower is moveably engaged with the cam, and wherein the cam follower and index table are moveable parallel to the first axis in response to the rotation of the grippable member.

[0243] An eighty-fourth aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 81 to 83 wherein the support hub comprises three flanges extending radially outwardly from the support hub, wherein the first, second and third connectors are coupled to the three flanges respectively.

[0244] An eighty-fifth aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 81 to 84 wherein the first and second connectors each comprise a post connected to a corresponding one of the flanges.

[0245] An eighty- sixth aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 81 to 85 wherein each of the first and second connectors further comprise first and second nuts threadably engaged with each of posts above and below a corresponding one of the flanges.

[0246] An eighty- seventh aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 81 to 86 wherein the rail comprises a first rail, and further comprising a second rail spaced apart from the first rail and movably supporting the index table.

[0247] An eighty-eighth aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 81 to 87 wherein the first, second and third connectors are successively angularly spaced 90 degrees relative to each other.

[0248] An eighty-ninth aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of claims 81 to 88 wherein the first, second and third connectors are radially spaced equal distances from the second axis.

[0249] A ninetieth aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 81 to 89 wherein the first and third connectors are aligned along the third axis extending parallel to the first axis.

[0250] A ninety-first aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 81 to 90 wherein the third connector provides left to right adjustment of the gauge plate and the second connector provides front to back adjustment of the gauge plate.

[0251] A ninety- second aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 81 to 91 wherein the support post is rotatably adjustable relative to the support hub about the second axis.

[0252] A ninety-third aspect relates to a product slicer comprising: a gauge plate coupled to a support post; an index table; and a support hub defining a plane having first and second orthogonal axes, wherein the support hub is connected to the support post and defines a third axis extending transverse to the plane, wherein the support post is rotatably adjustable relative to the support hub about the third axis, wherein the support post is axially adjustable relative to the support hub along the third axis, and wherein the support hub is adjustably coupled to theindex table, wherein the support hub may be rotatably adjusted relative to the index table about the second and third axes.

[0253] A ninety-fourth aspect relates to the product slicer of aspect 93 wherein the index table is moveably supported by at least one rail, wherein the index table is moveable on the rail parallel to the first axis.

[0254] A ninety-fifth aspect relates to the product slicer of aspect 93 or 94 wherein the index table comprises a cam follower, and further comprising a grippable member rotatably about a fourth axis parallel to the second axis, wherein the grippable member comprises a cam, wherein the cam follower is moveably engaged with the cam, and wherein the cam follower and index table are moveable parallel to the first axis in response to the rotation of the grippable member about the fourth axis.

[0255] A ninety- sixth aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 93 to 95 wherein the support hub support hub is spaced apart from and coupled to the index table with first, second and third connectors spaced angularly about the third axis, wherein the first and second connectors are axially adjustable and the third connector has a fixed length between the support hub and the index table.

[0256] A ninety- seventh aspect relates to a method of adjusting a gauge plate of a product slicer comprising: rotating a support hub relative to an index table about first and second orthogonal axes and thereby changing the orientation of a third axis defined by the support hub; rotating a support post connected to the support hub about the third axis, wherein the gauge plate is coupled to the support post; and axially adjusting the support post relative to the support hub along the third axis.

[0257] A ninety-eighth aspect relates to the method of aspect 97 further comprising moving the index table parallel to the first axis.

[0258] A ninety-ninth aspect relates to the method of aspect 97 or 98 wherein moving the index table parallel to the first axis comprises rotating a grippable member about a fourth axis parallel to the second axis, wherein thegrippable member comprises a cam, and engaging a cam follower coupled to the index table with the cam.

[0259] A one-hundredth aspect relates to the method of any one of aspects 97 to 99 wherein the support hub is spaced apart from and coupled to the index table with first, second and third connectors spaced angularly about the third axis, wherein the first and second connectors are axially adjustable and the third connector has a fixed length between the support hub and the index table, and wherein rotating the support hub relative to the index table about the first and second orthogonal axes comprises axially adjusting the first and second connectors.

[0260] A one-hundred and first aspect relates to a product slicer comprising: a housing rotatably supporting a knife; and a carriage assembly moveably supported by the housing, wherein the carriage assembly is moveable relative the knife, the carriage assembly comprising; a shaft defining a longitudinal first axis; a weight slidably engaging the shaft, wherein the weight defines a bearing spread (BS) acting on the shaft; an arm having a first portion coupled to the weight; and a weighted plate coupled to a second portion of the arm at a location spaced apart from the first location; wherein the weighted plate, the arm, and the weight have a combined center of gravity spaced a distance DI from the first axis, wherein DI < (0.70 x BS).

[0261] A one-hundred and second aspect relates to the product slicer of aspect 101 wherein the bearing spread is centered about a centerline defining a second axis perpendicular to the first axis, wherein the center of gravity is spaced a distance D2 from the second axis, wherein D2 < (0.075 x BS).

[0262] A one-hundred and third aspect relates to the product slicer of aspect 101 or 102 wherein the center of gravity is spaced apart a distance D3 from a plane defined by the first and second axes, wherein the shaft comprises a diameter D4, wherein D3 < (1.20 x D4).

[0263] A one-hundred and fourth aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 101 to 103 wherein the arm extends in a direction parallel to the second axis.

[0264] A one-hundred and fifth aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 101 to 104 wherein the weight comprises a first weight longitudinally spaced from a second weight, and wherein the first portion of the arm is disposed between the first and second weights, wherein the first and second weights in combination define the bearing spread.

[0265] A one-hundred and sixth aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 101 to 105 wherein the first weight comprises an end hub portion and a shaft portion extending from the end hub portion, wherein the first portion of the arm is disposed around the shaft portion.

[0266] A one-hundred and seventh aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 101 to 106 wherein the shaft portion extends into a cavity of the second weight.

[0267] A one-hundred and eighth aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 101 to 107 wherein the weight, the arm and the weighted plate are rotatable about the first axis.

[0268] A one-hundred and ninth aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 101 to 108 wherein the carriage assembly comprises a product tray, and wherein the weighted plate slidably engages the product tray.

[0269] A one-hundred and tenth aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 101 to 109 wherein the weighted plate comprises a guide extending from a bottom edge of the weighted plate, wherein the guide slidably engages the product tray.

[0270] A one-hundred and eleventh aspect relates to a product slicer comprising: a housing rotatably supporting a knife; and a carriage assembly moveably supported by the housing, wherein the carriage assembly is moveable relative the knife, the carriage assembly comprising: a product tray, a shaft defining a longitudinal first axis; a weight slidably engaging the shaft, wherein the weight defines a bearing spread (BS) acting on the shaft, wherein the bearing spread is centered about a centerline defining a second axis perpendicular to the first axis; an arm having a first portion coupled to the weight; and a weighted plate coupled to a second portion of the arm, wherein the second portion is spaced apartfrom the first portion, wherein the weighted plate slidably engages the product tray; wherein the weighted plate, the arm, and the weight have a combined center of gravity spaced a distance DI from the first axis, wherein DI < (0.70 x BS), and wherein the center of gravity is spaced a distance D2 from the second axis, wherein D2 < (0.075 x BS).

[0271] A one-hundred and twelfth aspect relates to the product slicer of aspect 111 wherein the center of gravity is spaced apart a distance D3 from a plane defined by the first and second axes, wherein the shaft comprises a diameter D4, wherein D3 < (1.20 x D4).

[0272] A one-hundred and thirteenth aspect relates to the product slicer of aspect 111 or 112 wherein the arm extends in a direction parallel to the second axis.

[0273] A one-hundred and fourteenth aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 111 to 113 wherein the weight comprises a first weight longitudinally spaced from a second weight, and wherein the first portion of the arm is disposed between the first and second weights, wherein the first and second weights in combination define the bearing spread.

[0274] A one-hundred and fifteenth aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 111 to 114 wherein the first weight comprises an end hub portion and a shaft portion extending from the end hub portion, wherein the first portion of the arm is disposed around the shaft portion.

[0275] A one-hundred and sixteenth aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 111 to 115 wherein the shaft portion extends into a cavity of the second weight.

[0276] A one-hundred and seventeenth aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 111 to 116 wherein the weight, the arm and the weighted plate are rotatable about the first axis.

[0277] A one-hundred and eighteenth aspect relates to the product slicer of any one of aspects 111 to 117 wherein the weighted plate comprises a guide extending from a bottom edge of the weighted plate, wherein the guide slidably engages the product tray.

[0278] A one-hundred and nineteenth aspect relates to a method of operating a product slicer comprising: rotating a knife supported by a housing; reciprocally moving a carriage assembly supported by the housing relative to the knife, wherein the carriage tray comprises a product tray supporting a product; engaging the product with a weighted plate, wherein the weighted plate is coupled to a first portion of an arm; and sliding a weight connected to a second portion of the arm along a shaft defining a longitudinal first axis, wherein the weight defines a bearing spread (BS) acting on the shaft, and wherein the weighted plate, the arm, and the weight have a combined center of gravity spaced a distance DI from the first axis, wherein DI < (0.70 x BS).

[0279] A one-hundred and twentieth aspect relates to the method of aspect 119 wherein the bearing spread is centered about a centerline defining a second axis perpendicular to the first axis, wherein the center of gravity is spaced a distance D2 from the second axis, wherein D2 < (0.075 x BS).

[0280] A one-hundred and twenty-first aspect relates to the method of aspect 119 or 120 wherein the center of gravity is spaced apart a distance D3 from a plane defined by the first and second axes, wherein the shaft comprises a diameter D4, wherein D3 < (1.20 x D4).

[0281] A one-hundred and twenty-second aspect relates to the method of any one of aspects 119 to 121 further comprising sliding the weighted plate along a surface of the product tray.

[0282] Although the present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. As such, it is intended that the foregoing detailed description be regarded as illustrative rather than limiting and that it is the appended claims, including all equivalents thereof, which are intended to define the scope of the invention.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A slicer, comprising: a housing; a knife mounted to the housing and rotatable about a knife axis; a carriage assembly mounted to the housing and configured for reciprocating motion between a first position and a second position; a gauge plate mounted to the housing and moveable between a closed position and a slicing position; and an interlock assembly operably coupled to the carriage assembly and the gauge plate and configured to releasably lock the carriage assembly at the first position and simultaneously lock the gauge plate at the closed position.

2. The slicer of claim 1, wherein the carriage assembly includes a carriage tray and a carriage arm, wherein the carriage tray is removably coupled to the carriage arm, and wherein when the carriage assembly is locked at the first position and the gauge plate is locked at the closed position, the carriage tray is removable from the carriage arm, and wherein when the carriage assembly is not locked at the first position and the gauge plate is not locked at the closed position, the carriage tray is not removable from the carriage arm.

3. The slicer of claim 1 or 2, wherein when the carriage tray is removed from the carriage arm, the interlock assembly is configured to maintain the carriage arm locked at the first position and maintain the gauge plate locked at the closed position.

4. The slicer of any preceding claim, wherein the interlock assembly includes an interlock actuator moveable between a disengaged position, where the carriage assembly and the gauge plate are unlocked, and an engaged position, where the carriage assembly is locked at the first position and the gauge plate is locked at the closed position.

5. The slicer of any preceding claim, wherein when the interlock actuator is moved from the disengaged position to the engaged position, the interlock knob is translated along an axis and rotated about the axis.

6. The slicer of any preceding claim, wherein the interlock assembly is prevented from moving to the engaged position if the carriage assembly is not at the first position and / or the gauge plate is not at the closed position.

7. The slicer of any preceding claim, further comprising an adjustment handle coupled to a cam plate, wherein a rotation of the adjustment handle causes a rotation of the cam plate and a corresponding movement of the gauge plate, wherein when the interlock knob moves to the engaged position, a shaft of the interlock actuator pivots a cam lock plate, such that the cam lock plate engages and prevents the rotation of the cam plate.

8. The slicer of any preceding claim, wherein the carriage assembly comprises a carriage tray and a carriage arm, wherein the carriage tray is removably coupled to the carriage arm with a post, wherein when the interlock actuator is moved to the engaged position, the post is moved to a retracted position, which allows the carriage tray to be removed from the carriage arm.

9. The slicer of any preceding claim, wherein when the carriage tray is removed from the carriage arm, the post is locked in the retracted position by a slide on the carriage arm, such that the interlock knob is prevented from being moved to the disengaged position.

10. A slicer, comprising: a housing; a knife mounted to the housing and rotatable about a knife axis; a carriage assembly mounted to the housing and configured for reciprocating motion between a first position and a second position, wherein the carriage assembly includes a carriage tray and a carriage arm, and wherein the carriage tray is removably coupled to the carriage arm;a gauge plate mounted to the housing and moveable between a closed position and a slicing position; and an interlock assembly operably coupled to the carriage assembly and the gauge plate and configured to allow the carriage tray to be removed from the carriage arm when the carriage assembly is locked at the first position and the gauge plate is locked at the closed position.

11. The slicer of claim 10, wherein the carriage tray is prevented from being removed from the carriage arm if the carriage assembly is not at the first position and / or the gauge plate is not at the closed position.

12. The slicer of claim 10 or 11, wherein when the carriage tray is removed from the carriage arm, the interlock assembly is prevented from unlocking the carriage assembly and the gauge plate.

13. The slicer of any one of claims 10 to 12, further comprising an adjustment handle coupled to a cam plate, wherein a rotation of the adjustment handle causes a rotation of the cam plate and a corresponding movement of the gauge plate, wherein the interlock assembly includes an interlock actuator moveable between a disengaged position and an engaged position, and wherein when the interlock actuator moves to the engaged position, a shaft of the interlock knob engages and pivots a cam lock plate into engagement with the cam plate so as to prevent the rotation of the cam plate.

14. The slicer of any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the carriage tray is removably coupled to the carriage arm with a post, and wherein when the interlock knob is moved to the engaged position, the post is moved to a retracted position, which allows the carriage tray to be removed from the carriage arm.

15. The slicer of any one of claims 10 to 14, wherein when the carriage tray is removed from the carriage arm, the post is locked in the retracted position by a slide on the carriage arm, such that the interlock knob is prevented from being moved to the disengaged position.

16. A method of operating a slicer, wherein the slicer comprises: a housing; a knife mounted to the housing and rotatable about a knife axis; a carriage assembly mounted to the housing and configured for reciprocating motion between a first position and a second position; a gauge plate mounted to the housing and moveable between a closed position and a slicing position; and an interlock assembly operably coupled to the carriage assembly and the gauge plate and configured to releasably lock the carriage assembly at the first position and lock the gauge plate at the closed position, wherein the interlock assembly comprises an interlock actuator moveable between a disengaged position and an engaged position, the method comprising: moving the gauge plate to the closed position; moving the carriage assembly to the first position; and moving the interlock actuator from the disengaged position to the engaged position and thereby locking the gauge plate in the closed position and locking the carriage assembly in the first position.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein moving the interlock actuator from the disengaged position to the engaged position comprises translating the interlock knob along an axis and rotated the interlock actuator about the axis.

18. The method of claim 16 or 17, wherein the carriage assembly includes a carriage tray coupled to a carriage arm, and further comprising removing the carriage tray from the carriage arm when the interlock knob is in the engaged position.

19. The method of any one of claims 16 to 18, further comprising installing the carriage tray on the carriage arm, and moving the interlock knob from the engaged position to the disengaged position, such that the gauge plate is unlocked from the closed position and the carriage assembly is unlocked from the first position.

20. The method of any one of claims 16 to 19, wherein removing the carriage tray from the carriage arm comprises sliding the carriage tray relative to the carriage arm.

21. A product slicer comprising: a support having a mounting platform comprising laterally spaced first and second guides extending in a first direction; and a carriage tray comprising laterally spaced first and second rails moveably engaged by the first and second guides, wherein the carriage tray is moveable in the first direction from a disengaged position wherein the rail is separated from the guide and an engaged position wherein the rail is engaged with the guide; and wherein one of the first guide and / or the first rail is moveably mounted on a corresponding one of the mounting platform and / or the carriage tray, wherein the first guide and / or the first rail is moveable from an unclamped position, wherein the first guide and the first rail are moveable relative to each in the first direction, to a clamped position, wherein the first rail is clamped to the first guide and the carriage tray is prevented from being moved in the first direction.

22. The product slicer of claim 21 wherein the first and second rails and the first and second guides define a dovetail joint.

23. The product slicer of claim 21 or 22 wherein the first rail is moveably mounted on the carriage tray, and wherein the first rail is moveable in a second direction between the unclamped and clamped positions, wherein the second direction is transverse to the first direction.

24. The product slicer of any one of claims 21 to 23 further comprising a cam moveable between first and second positions, wherein the cam is engaged with and holds the first rail in the clamped position when moved to the second position.

25. The product slicer of any one of claims 21 to 24 wherein the cam comprises a lever rotatable about a rotation axis, wherein the lever comprises a cam surface engaged with the first rail when the cam is moved to the second position.

26. The product slicer of any one of claims 21 to 25 wherein the first rail comprises a releasable detent engageable with the cam when the cam is in the first and second positions.

27. The product slicer of any one of claims 21 to 26 wherein the first rail comprising an opening, wherein the first rail is mounted to the carriage tray with a fastener extending through the opening, wherein the fastener and the opening are configured to allow movement between the first rail and the carriage tray in at least the second direction.

28. A product slicer comprising: a support having a mounting platform; a carriage tray moveably mounted on the support, wherein the carriage tray is moveable in a first direction from a disengaged position, wherein the carriage tray is separated from the mounting platform, and an engaged position, wherein the carriage tray is engaged with the mounting platform; and a cam rotatably mounted on the carriage tray, wherein the cam is rotatable between a clamped position, wherein the cam clamps the carriage tray to the mounting platform such that the carriage tray is not moveable to the disengaged position, and an unclamped position, wherein the carriage tray is moveable to the disengaged position.

29. The product slicer of claim 28 wherein the carriage tray comprises a pair of rails spaced apart in a second direction, wherein the second direction is orthogonal to the first direction, and wherein one of the rails is moveable in the seconddirection in response to the cam being rotated between the unclamped and clamped positions.

30. The product slicer of claim 28 or 29 wherein the cam comprises a lever rotatable about a rotation axis, wherein the lever comprises a cam surface engaged with the moveable rail when the lever is rotated about the rotation axis such that the cam is in the clamped position.

31. The product slicer of any one of claims 28 to 30 wherein the moveable rail comprises a releasable detent engageable with the cam when the cam is in the clamped and unclamped positions.

32. The product slicer of any one of claims 28 to 31 wherein the moveable rail comprises an opening, wherein the movable rail is mounted to the carriage tray with a fastener extending through the opening, wherein the fastener and the opening are configured to allow movement between the moveable rail and the carriage tray in at least the second direction.

33. A method of assembling a product slicer comprising: moving a carriage tray in a first direction relative to a mounting platform of a support from a disengaged position to an engaged position, wherein the carriage tray comprises laterally spaced first and second rails engaged with laterally spaced first and second guides on the mounting platform when the carriage tray and mounting platform are in the engaged position; and when the carriage tray and mounting platform are in the engaged position, moving one of the first guide or the first rail from an unclamped position, wherein the first guide and the first rail are moveable relative to each other in the first direction, to a clamped position, wherein the first rail is clamped to the first guide and the carriage tray is prevented from being moved in the first direction.

34. The method of claim 33 wherein the first and second rails and the first and second guides define a dovetail joint.

35. The method of claim 33 or 34 wherein the first rail is moveably mounted on the carriage tray, and wherein moving the first rail relative to the first guide between the unclamped and the clamped positions comprises moving the first rail in a second direction between the unclamped and clamped positions, wherein the second direction is orthogonal to the first direction.

36. The method of any one of claims 33 to 35 further comprising rotating a cam less than 180 degrees between first and second positions, wherein the cam is engaged with and holds the first rail in the clamped position when moved to the second position.

37. The method of any one of claims 33 to 36 wherein the cam comprises a lever, wherein rotating the cam comprises rotating the lever about a rotation axis and thereby rotating a cam surface on the lever into engagement with the first rail, and thereby moving the first rail to the clamped position.

38. The method of any one of claims 33 to 37 further comprising engaging the lever with a releasable detent when the lever is rotated to the second position.

39. The method of any one of claims 33 to 38 further comprising engaging the lever with the releasable detent when the lever is rotated to the first position.

40. The method of any one of claims 33 to 39 wherein the first rail comprising an opening, wherein the first rail is mounted to the carriage tray with a fastener extending through the opening, and wherein moving the first rail in the second direction between the unclamped and clamped positions comprises moving the fastener in the opening.

41. A product slicer comprising: a drive pulley reciprocally rotatable about a drive rotation axis; a belt engaged with the drive pulley, wherein the belt is reciprocally movable in opposite first and second directions; a carriage assembly coupled to the belt, wherein the carriage assembly is reciprocally moveable in the opposite first and second directions, and wherein the carriage assembly comprises a product holding tray; and a belt tensioner comprising first and second tensioner pulleys engaging the belt on opposite sides of the drive pulley, wherein the first and second tensioner pulleys are rotatable about first and second rotation axes, wherein the first and second axes are moveable relative to the drive rotation axis.

42. The product slicer of claim 41 wherein the first and second axes are rotatable about the drive rotation axis.

43. The product slicer of claim 41 or 42 wherein the belt tensioner comprises first and second arms carrying the first and second tensioner pullies respectively, wherein the first and second arms are pivotable about the drive rotation axis.

44. The product slicer of any one of claims 41 to 43 wherein the belt tensioner comprises a biasing component disposed between the first and second arms, wherein the biasing component defines the angular relationship between the first and second axes arms.

45. The product slicer of any one of claims 41 to 44 wherein the biasing component comprises a bolt extending between and threadably engaged with at least one of the first and second arms.

46. The product slicer of any one of claims 41 to 45 wherein the biasing component comprises a spring.

47. The product slicer of any one of claims 41 to 46 wherein the belt comprises a first belt, wherein the drive pulley is non-rotatably coupled to a driven pulley, wherein the drive pulley and driven pulley are rotatable about the drive rotation axis, and wherein the driven pulley is coupled to a motor with a second belt.

48. The product slicer of any one of claims 41 to 47 wherein the motor comprises a second drive pulley engaged with the second belt.

49. The product slicer of any one of claims 41 to 48 wherein the carriage assembly is releasably coupled to the belt.

50. A product slicer comprising: a drive pulley reciprocally rotatable about a drive rotation axis; a belt engaged with the drive pulley, wherein the belt is reciprocally movable in opposite first and second directions; a carriage assembly coupled to the belt, wherein the carriage assembly is reciprocally moveable in the opposite first and second directions, and wherein the carriage assembly comprises a product holding tray; and a belt tensioner comprising first and second tensioner pulleys engaging the belt, wherein the first and second tensioner pulleys are rotatable about first and second rotation axes, and wherein the first and second rotation axes are adjustably moveable toward and away from each other.

51. The product slicer of claim 50 wherein the first and second rotation axes are rotatable about the drive rotation axis.

52. The product slicer of claim 50 or 51 wherein the belt tensioner comprises first and second arms carrying the first and second tensioner pullies respectively, wherein the first and second arms are pivotable about the drive rotation axis.

53. The product slicer of any one of claims 50 to 52 wherein the belt tensioner comprises a biasing component disposed between the first and second tensioner pulleys, wherein the biasing component defines the positional relationship between the first and second rotation axes.

54. The product slicer of any one of claims 50 to 53 wherein the belt comprises a first belt, wherein the drive pulley is non-rotatably coupled to a driven pulley, wherein the drive pulley and driven pulley are rotatable about the drive rotation axis, and wherein the driven pulley is coupled to a motor with a second belt.

55. The product slicer of any one of claims 50 to 54 wherein the carriage assembly is releasably coupled to the belt.

56. A method of operating a product slicer comprising: reciprocally rotating a drive pulley about a drive rotation axis; reciprocally moving a belt engaged with the drive pulley in opposite first and second directions; reciprocally moving a carriage assembly coupled to the belt in the opposite first and second directions, wherein the carriage assembly comprises a product holding tray; reciprocally rotating first and second tensioner pulleys about first and second rotation axes, wherein the first and second tensioner pulleys engage the belt on opposite sides of the drive pulley; and reciprocally rotating the first and second rotation axes about the drive rotation axis.

57. The method of claim 56 further comprising first and second arms carrying the first and second tensioner pullies respectively, wherein reciprocally rotating the first and second rotation axes about the drive rotation axis comprises reciprocally pivoting the first and second arms about the drive rotation axis.

58. The method of claim 56 or 57 further comprising adjusting the angular relationship between the first and second arms.

59. The method of any one of claims 56 to 58 wherein the belt comprises a first belt, wherein the drive pulley is non-rotatably coupled to a driven pulley, and further comprising reciprocally rotating the driven pulley with a second belt coupled to a motor.

60. The method of any one of claims 56 to 59 further comprising decoupling the carriage assembly from the belt.

61. A product slicer comprising: a housing; a knife rotatably supported by the housing, wherein the knife comprises a circumferential knife edge and an outer face; a ring guard coupled to the housing, wherein the ring guard comprises a guard portion circumferentially surrounding at least a portion the knife edge, and a locking device moveable between a locked position and an unlocked position; and a knife cover moveably disposed over at least a portion of the outer face of the knife, wherein the knife cover is moveable relative to the ring guard between an engaged position and a disengaged position, and wherein the locking device is engaged with the knife cover in the engaged position when the locking device is moved to the locked position, wherein the locking device prevents the knife cover from being moved from the engaged position to the disengaged position when the locking device is in the locked position, and wherein the locking device is disengaged with the knife cover in the engaged position when the locking device is moved to the unlocked position such that the knife cover may be moved from the engaged position to the disengaged position.

62. The product slicer of claim 61 wherein the ring guard comprises at least one first mounting feature and wherein the knife cover comprises at least onesecond mounting feature engageable with the at least one first mounting feature, wherein the at least one second mounting feature is engaged with the at least one first mounting feature when the knife cover is moved to the engaged position, and wherein the at least one second mounting feature is disengaged with the at least one first mounting feature when the knife cover is moved to the disengaged position.

63. The product slicer of claim 61 or 62 wherein the at least one first mounting feature comprises a post, and wherein the at least one second mounting feature comprises a notch.

64. The product slicer of any one of claims 61 to 63 wherein at least a second first mounting feature comprises a second post, and wherein at least a second mounting feature comprises a closed opening receiving the second post when the knife cover is moved to the engaged position.

65. The product slicer of any one of claims 61 to 64 wherein the post comprises a shaft and a head connected to an end of the shaft, wherein the shaft is received in the notch and the head engages a side surface of the knife cover.

66. The product slicer of any one of claims 61 to 65 wherein the at least one first mounting feature comprises a plurality of first mounting features and the at least one second mounting feature comprises a plurality of second mounting features.

67. The product slicer of any one of claims 61 to 66 wherein the locking device comprises a knob rotatably connected to the ring guard, wherein the knob is rotatable between the locked and unlocked positions.

68. The product slider of any one of claims 61 to 67 wherein the knob comprises a cam surface, wherein the cam surface slides along a side surface ofthe knife cover surface as the knob is rotated between the locked and unlocked positions.

69. The product slicer of any one of claims 61 to 68 wherein a spring biases the knob in an axial direction against the side surface of the knife cover.

70. A product slicer comprising: a housing; a knife rotatably supported by the housing, wherein the knife comprises a circumferential knife edge and an outer face; a knife cover disposed over at least a portion of the outer face of the knife and having a side surface; a ring guard coupled to the housing, wherein the ring guard comprises a guard portion circumferentially surrounding at least a portion the knife edge; and a locking device rotatably mounted on the ring guard, wherein the locking device is rotatable between a locked position wherein the locking device engages the knife cover, and an unlocked position wherein the locking device is disengaged from the knife cover.

71. The product slicer of claim 70 wherein the locking device engages a side surface of the knife cover in the locked position.

72. The product slider of claim 70 or 71 wherein knob comprises a cam surface, wherein the cam surface slides along the side surface as the knob is rotated between the locked and unlocked positions.

73. The product slicer of any one of claims 70 to 72 wherein a spring biases the knob in an axial direction against the side surface of the knife cover.

74. A method of operating a product slicer comprising:covering a knife rotatably connected to a housing with a knife cover, wherein a ring guard is coupled to the housing and comprises a guard portion circumferentially surrounding at least a portion the knife edge; moving a locking device mounted on the ring guard between an unlocked position, wherein the locking device is disengaged from the knife cover, and a locked position; and engaging the knife cover with the locking device as the locking device is moved to the locked position.

75. The method of claim 74 wherein moving the locking device comprises rotating the locking device.

76. The method of claim 74 or 75 wherein engaging the knife cover with the locking device comprises engaging a side surface of the knife cover with the locking device.

77. The method of any one of claims 74 to 76 wherein locking device comprises a cam surface, and wherein rotating the locking device comprise sliding the cam surface along the side surface of the knife cover.

78. The method of any one of claims 74 to 77 further comprising biasing the locking device in an axial direction against the side surface of the knife cover.

79. The method of any one of claims 74 to 78 wherein covering the knife with the knife cover comprises engaging at least one first mounting feature on the ring guard with at least one second mounting feature on the knife cover.

80. The method of any one of claims 74 to 79 wherein engaging the at least one first mounting feature on the ring guard with the at least one second mounting feature on the knife cover comprises inserting a post on the ring guard into a notch on the knife cover.

81. A product slicer comprising: a gauge plate coupled to a support post; an index table movably supported by a rail, wherein the index table is moveable along a first axis; and a support hub connected to the support post and defining a second axis, wherein the support hub is spaced apart from and coupled to the index table with first, second and third connectors spaced angularly about the second axis, wherein the first and second connectors are axially adjustable, and wherein the third connector has a fixed length defined between the support hub and the index table, and wherein an orientation of the second axis is adjustable about third and fourth axes in response to the axial adjustment of the first and second connectors.

82. The product slicer of claim 81 wherein the support post is axially adjustable relative to the support hub.

83. The product slicer of claim 81 or 82 wherein the index table comprises a cam follower, and further comprising a grippable member rotatably about a fifth axis, wherein the grippable member comprises a cam, wherein the cam follower is moveably engaged with the cam, and wherein the cam follower and index table are moveable parallel to the first axis in response to the rotation of the grippable member.

84. The product slicer of any one of claims 81 to 83 wherein the support hub comprises three flanges extending radially outwardly from the support hub, wherein the first, second and third connectors are coupled to the three flanges respectively.

85. The product slicer of any one of claims 81 to 84 wherein the first and second connectors each comprise a post connected to a corresponding one of the flanges.

86. The product slicer of any one of claims 81 to 85 wherein each of the first and second connectors further comprise first and second nuts threadably engaged with each of posts above and below a corresponding one of the flanges.

87. The product slicer of any one of claims 81 to 86 wherein the rail comprises a first rail, and further comprising a second rail spaced apart from the first rail and movably supporting the index table.

88. The product slicer of any one of claims 81 to 87 wherein the first, second and third connectors are successively angularly spaced 90 degrees relative to each other.

89. The product slicer of any one of claims 81 to 88 wherein the first, second and third connectors are radially spaced equal distances from the second axis.

90. The product slicer of any one of claims 81 to 89 wherein the first and third connectors are aligned along the third axis extending parallel to the first axis.

91. The product slicer of any one of claims 81 to 90 wherein the third connector provides left to right adjustment of the gauge plate and the second connector provides front to back adjustment of the gauge plate.

92. The product slicer of any one of claims 81 to 91 wherein the support post is rotatably adjustable relative to the support hub about the second axis.

93. A product slicer comprising: a gauge plate coupled to a support post; an index table; and a support hub defining a plane having first and second orthogonal axes, wherein the support hub is connected to the support post and defines a third axisextending transverse to the plane, wherein the support post is rotatably adjustable relative to the support hub about the third axis, wherein the support post is axially adjustable relative to the support hub along the third axis, and wherein the support hub is adjustably coupled to the index table, wherein the support hub may be rotatably adjusted relative to the index table about the second and third axes.

94. The product slicer of claim 93 wherein the index table is moveably supported by at least one rail, wherein the index table is moveable on the rail parallel to the first axis.

95. The product slicer of claim 93 or 94 wherein the index table comprises a cam follower, and further comprising a grippable member rotatably about a fourth axis parallel to the second axis, wherein the grippable member comprises a cam, wherein the cam follower is moveably engaged with the cam, and wherein the cam follower and index table are moveable parallel to the first axis in response to the rotation of the grippable member about the fourth axis.

96. The product slicer of any one of claims 93 to 95 wherein the support hub support hub is spaced apart from and coupled to the index table with first, second and third connectors spaced angularly about the third axis, wherein the first and second connectors are axially adjustable and the third connector has a fixed length between the support hub and the index table.

97. A method of adjusting a gauge plate of a product slicer comprising: rotating a support hub relative to an index table about first and second orthogonal axes and thereby changing the orientation of a third axis defined by the support hub; rotating a support post connected to the support hub about the third axis, wherein the gauge plate is coupled to the support post; and axially adjusting the support post relative to the support hub along the third axis.

98. The method of clam 97 further comprising moving the index table parallel to the first axis.

99. The method of claim 97 or 98 wherein moving the index table parallel to the first axis comprises rotating a grippable member about a fourth axis parallel to the second axis, wherein the grippable member comprises a cam, and engaging a cam follower coupled to the index table with the cam.

100. The method of any one of claims 97 to 99 wherein the support hub is spaced apart from and coupled to the index table with first, second and third connectors spaced angularly about the third axis, wherein the first and second connectors are axially adjustable and the third connector has a fixed length between the support hub and the index table, and wherein rotating the support hub relative to the index table about the first and second orthogonal axes comprises axially adjusting the first and second connectors.

101. A product slicer comprising: a housing rotatably supporting a knife; and a carriage assembly moveably supported by the housing, wherein the carriage assembly is moveable relative the knife, the carriage assembly comprising: a shaft defining a longitudinal first axis; a weight slidably engaging the shaft, wherein the weight defines a bearing spread (BS) acting on the shaft; an arm having a first portion coupled to the weight; and a weighted plate coupled to a second portion of the arm at a location spaced apart from the first location; wherein the weighted plate, the arm, and the weight have a combined center of gravity spaced a distance DI from the first axis, wherein DI < (0.70 x BS).

102. The product slicer of claim 101 wherein the bearing spread is centered about a centerline defining a second axis perpendicular to the first axis, wherein the center of gravity is spaced a distance D2 from the second axis, wherein D2 < (0.075 x BS).

103. The product slicer of claim 101 or 102 wherein the center of gravity is spaced apart a distance D3 from a plane defined by the first and second axes, wherein the shaft comprises a diameter D4, wherein D3 < (1.20 x D4).

104. The product slicer of any one of claims 101 to 103 wherein the arm extends in a direction parallel to the second axis.

105. The product slicer of any one of claims 101 to 104 wherein the weight comprises a first weight longitudinally spaced from a second weight, and wherein the first portion of the arm is disposed between the first and second weights, wherein the first and second weights in combination define the bearing spread.

106. The product slicer of any one of claims 101 to 105 wherein the first weight comprises an end hub portion and a shaft portion extending from the end hub portion, wherein the first portion of the arm is disposed around the shaft portion.

107. The product slicer of any one of claims 101 to 106 wherein the shaft portion extends into a cavity of the second weight.

108. The product slicer of any one of claims 101 to 107 wherein the weight, the arm and the weighted plate are rotatable about the first axis.

109. The product slicer of any one of claims 101 to 108 wherein the carriage assembly comprises a product tray, and wherein the weighted plate slidably engages the product tray.

110. The product slicer of any one of claims 101 to 109 wherein the weighted plate comprises a guide extending from a bottom edge of the weighted plate, wherein the guide slidably engages the product tray.

111. A product slicer comprising: a housing rotatably supporting a knife; and a carriage assembly moveably supported by the housing, wherein the carriage assembly is moveable relative the knife, the carriage assembly comprising: a product tray, a shaft defining a longitudinal first axis; a weight slidably engaging the shaft, wherein the weight defines a bearing spread (BS) acting on the shaft, wherein the bearing spread is centered about a centerline defining a second axis perpendicular to the first axis; an arm having a first portion coupled to the weight; and a weighted plate coupled to a second portion of the arm, wherein the second portion is spaced apart from the first portion, wherein the weighted plate slidably engages the product tray; wherein the weighted plate, the arm, and the weight have a combined center of gravity spaced a distance DI from the first axis, wherein DI < (0.70 x BS), and wherein the center of gravity is spaced a distance D2 from the second axis, wherein D2 < (0.075 x BS).

112. The product slicer of claim 111 wherein the center of gravity is spaced apart a distance D3 from a plane defined by the first and second axes, wherein the shaft comprises a diameter D4, wherein D3 < (1.20 x D4).

113. The product slicer of claim 111 or 112 wherein the arm extends in a direction parallel to the second axis.

114. The product slicer of any one of claims 111 to 113 wherein the weight comprises a first weight longitudinally spaced from a second weight, and wherein the first portion of the arm is disposed between the first and second weights, wherein the first and second weights in combination define the bearing spread.

115. The product slicer of any one of claims 111 to 114 wherein the first weight comprises an end hub portion and a shaft portion extending from the end hub portion, wherein the first portion of the arm is disposed around the shaft portion.

116. The product slicer of any one of claims 111 to 115 wherein the shaft portion extends into a cavity of the second weight.

117. The product slicer of any one of claims 111 to 116 wherein the weight, the arm and the weighted plate are rotatable about the first axis.

118. The product slicer of any one of claims 111 to 117 wherein the weighted plate comprises a guide extending from a bottom edge of the weighted plate, wherein the guide slidably engages the product tray.

119. A method of operating a product slicer comprising: rotating a knife supported by a housing; reciprocally moving a carriage assembly supported by the housing relative to the knife, wherein the carriage tray comprises a product tray supporting a product; engaging the product with a weighted plate, wherein the weighted plate is coupled to a first portion of an arm; and sliding a weight connected to a second portion of the arm along a shaft defining a longitudinal first axis, wherein the weight defines a bearing spread (BS) acting on the shaft, and wherein the weighted plate, the arm, and the weight have acombined center of gravity spaced a distance DI from the first axis, wherein DI < (0.70 x BS).

120. The method of claim 119 wherein the bearing spread is centered about a centerline defining a second axis perpendicular to the first axis, wherein the center of gravity is spaced a distance D2 from the second axis, wherein D2 < (0.075 x BS).

121. The method of claim 119 or 120 wherein the center of gravity is spaced apart a distance D3 from a plane defined by the first and second axes, wherein the shaft comprises a diameter D4, wherein D3 < (1.20 x D4).

122. The method of any one of claims 119 to 121 further comprising sliding the weighted plate along a surface of the product tray.

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