Apparatus for spacing picked product

Abstract

Food handling apparatuses, systems, and methods are described for picking and spacing food product, including interchangeable comb assemblies configured to engage and guide picking devices between predetermined arrays, among other things.

Description

APPARATUS FOR SPACING PICKED PRODUCTCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 664,926, filed June 27, 2024, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The subject matter of this application relates to food handling machinery, and more particularly to apparatuses, systems, and methods for sorting and organizing food products between predetermined arrays. Aspects of the application are directed to devices, systems, and methods for picking and placing food products, such tubular food products including sausages, hot dogs, and the like, into packaging for those products.BACKGROUND

[0003] Food products can be packaged individually or in groups. When packaged in groups, each individual food product needs to be sorted, organized, and transferred prior to packaging. Conventionally, one machine is used to sort food products, another machine is used to organize the food products, and still another machine is used to transport the sorted and organized food products to a packaging device. Alternatively, each food product can be individually transported to the packaging device until the predetermined number of food products within the group are provided to the packaging device. However, these methods undesirably increase packaging time and require numerous machines to perform the process.

[0004] U.S. Patent No. 10,350,769 to Richards et al. (“Richards”) describes food product handling devices, systems, and related methods of handling food products. Aspects of the devices, systems, and methods described in Richards may be used in combination with the devices, systems, and methods described here. Richards is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0005] Producers in the food industry are subject to various pressures, including reducing costs for purchasing, operating, and maintaining machineryand tooling and for maintaining and improving food hygiene systems and practices, among other things. There is an unmet need in the field for devices, systems, and methods that address these and other challenges in the food handling industry. Examples below satisfy these unmet needs in various ways.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a food product handling system of the type described in Richards.

[0007] Figure 2A is a schematic illustrating an example of a food product infeed layout.

[0008] Figure 2B is a schematic illustrating an example of a food product packaging layout.

[0009] Figure 3A is a perspective view of an example of an apparatus for picking and spacing food product with picking devices arranged in a first predetermined array.

[0010] Figure 3B is a perspective view of the apparatus for picking and spacing food product of Figure 3A with picking devices arranged in a second predetermined array.

[0011] Figure 3C is a partial perspective view of the apparatus for picking and spacing food product of Figure 3A.

[0012] Figure 3D is a perspective view of a picking device of the apparatus for picking and spacing food product of Figure 3A.

[0013] Figure 4A is a top schematic view of an apparatus for picking and spacing food product with picking devices arranged in a first predetermined array.

[0014] Figure 4B is a top schematic view of the apparatus for picking and spacing food product of Figure 4A with picking devices arranged in a second predetermined array.

[0015] Figure 5 is a perspective view of an alternative interchangeable comb assembly.

[0016] Figure 6 is a perspective view of an alternative interchangeable comb assembly.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the inventions, reference will now be made to various examples illustrated and described in the drawings and throughout this application, including in the specification and claims. These examples are intended to be non-exhaustive, and no limitation of the scope of the inventions described and claimed herein is intended. Additional examples within the scope of these inventions are contemplated and would be apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art, including alterations and modifications to specific examples described herein, and further applications of the principles of the inventions. For example, while the examples below refer to tubular food products, such as hot dogs or sausages, the scope of the inventions is not so limited and includes other suitable food products tubular or otherwise.

[0018] Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers used herein to express quantities, dimensions, degrees, and the like, should be understood as being modified in all instances by the term “about,” and that term would be understood to encompass standard mechanical tolerances and variations as known in the art. Unless otherwise indicated, each numerical value in this disclosure is intended to encompass both the recited value and functionally equivalent values / ranges surrounding that value.

[0019] The use of the singular includes the plural unless specifically stated otherwise and the use of the terms “and” and “or” means “and / or” unless otherwise indicated. The use of the terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” “regarding,” and the like are non-exclusive and non-limiting.

[0020] This description of exemplary embodiments is intended to be read in connection with the accompanying drawings, which are to be considered part of the entire written description. In the description, relative terms such as “horizontal,” “vertical,” “up,” “down,” “upper,” “lower,” “right,” “left,” “top,” and “bottom,” as well as derivatives thereof (e.g., “horizontally,” “downwardly,” “upwardly,” etc.) refer to the orientation as then described or as shown in the drawing figure under discussion. These relative terms are for convenience of description and normally are not intended to require a particular orientation.

[0021] Unless otherwise indicated, the term “direction” broadly refers to a position or movement generally along or parallel to an axis and includes positive positions and movements (positions and movements one way along or parallel to an axis) as well as negative positions and movements (positions and movements the other way along or parallel to the axis). For example, two elements moving along an “X” axis will be considered to move in an “X” direction in the context of this application, regardless of whether the two objects are: (a) moving with one another along the “X” axis; (b) moving towards one another along the “X” axis; or (c) moving away from one another along the “X” axis.

[0022] Figure 1 illustrates an example of a food handling system 10 of the type described in Richards. Generally, the handling system 10 includes a food supply system 12, a conveyor system 14, and a food loading system 18. The conveyor system 14 includes a conveyor belt 16 and is configured to convey food product from the supply system 12 towards the loading system 18. A robotic loader 20 and food handling device 22 are configured to sort, organize, and transport food product from the conveyor system 14 for subsequent packaging.

[0023] Typically, the infeed from the supply system tends to provide product on the conveyor belt in one configuration, while the packager tends to require product in a different configuration. Product is presented in a first array, and then reorganized into a different array for the purpose of packaging. Figure 2A illustrates an example of an infeed configuration with a plurality of equally-spaced food product 30 disposed along a conveyor belt 16 in a regular linear pitch, and having a first spacing S1 .

[0024] Figure 2B illustrates an example of a packaging configuration for the food product 30 including multiple groupings G. Each grouping G is configured to include a plurality of equally-spaced food product 30 disposed in a second spacing S2. As shown in Figure 2B, adjacent food product 30 between groupings G is separated by a third spacing S3. In this example, food product 30 is more tightly packed within groupings G of the packaging configuration than in the infeed configuration, such that the second spacing S2 is less than the first spacing S1 . On the other hand, adjacent foodproduct between groupings is less tightly packed together than in the infeed and grouping configurations, such that the third spacing S3 is greater than both first and second spacings S1 , S2. Food product 30 may comprise a generally tubular product as illustrated, such as a hot dog or sausage, or may comprise any other product, shape, or configuration as desired.

[0025] In one aspect, the present application provides efficient, hygienic, and easily adaptable apparatuses and systems for picking and spacing product between predetermined arrays (e.g., an infeed array and a packaging array). In contrast with the prior art, where a separate handling tool (such as a food handling device, as described in Richard) may be required for each distinct infeed and / or packaging configuration, this application provides more adaptable devices, with fewer interlinking parts. In some examples, a single handling tool may be adapted to service multiple infeed and / or packaging configurations, using novel “comb” assemblies, which may be interchangeable. These examples may provide reduced tooling costs, as well as reduced assembly, maintenance, and changeover costs.

[0026] Figures 3A-3D illustrate various aspects of an exemplary apparatus for picking and spacing product between predetermined arrays. The apparatus comprises a loading head 50 including a base assembly 51 adapted to be coupled to a robotic loader (not shown in Figures 3A-3D) and an interchangeable comb assembly 60. The loading head 50 is movable between an infeed position (e.g., for picking food product from an infeed), and a packaging position (e.g., for placing food product in packaging). The loading head 50 is configured to pick and hold food product while it is being moved between infeed and packaging positions.

[0027] As illustrated in Figure 3C, the base structure 51 comprises a plurality of picking devices 54 disposed on a frame 80. The frame 80 is adapted to be fixedly coupled to the robotic loader (not shown in Figure 3C) via mount 52. The picking devices 54 are configured to pick up and hold food product while the loading head 50 is being moved between infeed and packaging positions. The picking devices 54 are slidably disposed on the frame 80 to permit them to move to and between any number of possible predetermined arrays. In the example shown in Figure 3C, the frame 80comprises a pair of parallel elongate guide rods 82 oriented in a first direction X (denoted by a dashed double arrow in the figures), and coupled together via connectors 84. The connectors 84 each are coupled to a retaining guide 76, which assists in releasably retaining and guiding the comb assembly 60 during operation, as explained further below. The picking devices 54 are slidingly disposed on the rods 82 either way in the X direction, permitting adjacent devices 54 to move closer to and / or further part from one another in the first direction, as desired and in accordance with a particular comb configuration. As illustrated in Figure 3D, the picking devices 54 may comprise parallel channels 59 configured to slidingly receive the rods 82 of the frame 80.

[0028] The picking devices may comprise any device suitable for picking and holding food product. As shown in Figure 3A-3D, the picking devices 54 may comprise a plurality of vacuum generators 56 with suction cups 58. The picking devices 54 are movable in the X direction between predetermined arrays. In one example, the picking devices 54 may be movable in the X direction between a first predetermined array A1 (shown in Figure 3A) and a second predetermined array A2 (shown in Figure 3B). The picking devices 54 in the first predetermined array A1 are generally equally spaced apart in a first spacing S1 . The picking devices 54 in the second predetermined array A2 are generally equally spaced apart in a second spacing S2. The picking devices 54 are closer together to one another in the second predetermined array A2 than in the first predetermined array A1 , such that the second spacing S2 is less than the first spacing S1 .

[0029] Picking devices 54 may be arranged in a single array set, or alternatively in multiple array sets. In the example shown in Figures 3A and 3B, picking devices 54 are arranged in two array sets, each set including eight vacuum generators 56 (with associated suction cups 58). In this example, each set is movable between a first predetermined array A1 with a first spacing S1 and a second predetermined array A2 with a second spacing S2, as described above. Adjacent picking devices 54 between array sets are separated by a third spacing S3 when the picking devices 54 are in the second predetermined array A2. In some examples, a loading head mayinclude picking devices 54 arranged in two or more array sets, each set having the same or distinct first spacing, second spacing, and / or predetermined array configurations.

[0030] The base assembly 51 is removably coupled to interchangeable comb assembly 60. Comb assembly 60 is configured to engage and guide the picking devices 54 between predetermined arrays. As shown in Figures 3A and 3B, comb assembly 60 may comprise a generally rectangular plate structure, although other configurations are contemplated. Comb assembly 60 comprises a plurality of elongate guiding members 62 disposed in a generally planar surface of the assembly. Each of the elongate guiding members 62 has a first end portion associated with a first predetermined array A1 , a second end portion opposite the first end portion associated with a second predetermined array A2, and a body portion extending between the first and second portions.

[0031] As shown in Figures 3A and 3B, the elongate guiding members 62 are configured to slidingly engage the picking devices 54 when the comb assembly 60 is coupled to the base assembly 51 . Picking devices 54 may comprise pins 55 or the like configured to fit into corresponding channels or tracks 62 in the comb assembly 60, as shown in greater detail in Figures 3C and 3D. In the assembled configuration, the elongate guiding members 62 extend generally in a second direction Y (denoted by a dashed double arrow in the figures), which is a different direction than the X direction. In some examples, the Y direction may be generally transverse to the X direction. In other examples, the Y direction may be perpendicular to the X direction. Other examples including different angles are contemplated and within the scope of this application.

[0032] The guiding members 62 are configured, individually and collectively, so that the picking devices 54 are spaced in the first predetermined array A1 when the picking devices 54 are positioned at the first end portions of the guiding members 62. Similarly, the guiding members 62 are configured, individually and collectively, so that the picking devices 54 are spaced in the second predetermined array A2 when the picking devices 54 are positioned at the second end portions of the guide members 62. Guidingthe picking devices 54 between first and second end portions of the guiding members 62 causes the picking devices 54 to move between the first and second predetermined arrays A1 , A2. The guiding members 62 are exemplified in Figures 3A and 3B by curvilinear channels or tracks formed in a surface of the plate structure.

[0033] The comb assembly 60 is movable relative to the base assembly 51 (and to the picking devices 54) in the Y direction. Moving the comb assembly 60 relative to the base assembly 51 in the Y direction causes the channels 62 to guide the pins 55 of the picking devices 54 between first and second end portions of the guide channels. This, in turn, causes the picking devices 54 to move in the X direction along the guide rods 82. Thus, by moving the comb assembly 60 in the Y direction the picking devices 54 are capable of moving in the X direction between predetermined arrays. In the example shown in Figures 3A and 3B, moving the comb assembly 60 one way in the Y direction (from Figure 3A to Figure 3B) causes the picking devices 54 to move in the X direction from the first predetermined array A1 (Figure 3A) to the second predetermined array A2 (Figure 3B). Conversely, moving the comb assembly 60 the other way in the Y direction (from Figure 3B to Figure 3A) causes the picking devices 54 to move in the X direction from the second predetermined array A2 (Figure 3B) to the first predetermined array A1 (Figure 3A).

[0034] One or more actuators 70 may be provided to assist in moving the comb assembly 60 relative to the base assembly 51 . In Figures 3A and 3B, the comb assembly 60 is coupled to pneumatic cylinders 72 via retaining fasteners 74. The cylinders 72 have a retracted configuration (shown in Figure 3A) and an extended configuration (shown in Figure 3B). Retaining guides 76 coupled to the cylinders 72 slidingly engage and stabilize ends of the comb assembly 60. The couplings illustrated in Figures 3A and 3B are illustrative, and not limiting. Actuators 70 (e.g., pneumatic cylinders 72) may be coupled to comb assembly 60 using any coupling(s), fastener(s), or other means known in the art and suitable for moving the comb assembly 60 relative to the base assembly 51 in accordance with this disclosure.

[0035] In the retracted cylinder configuration of Figure 3A, the pins 55 are disposed at first end portions of the channels 62 associated with the first predetermined array A1 and are generally equally spaced apart. In the extended cylinder configuration of Figure 3B, the pins 55 have moved along the channels 62 from the first end portions to the second end portions associated with the second predetermined array A2. The guiding channels 62 cause the pins 55 of each array set to move closer together in the first direction (“X” direction), thereby causing the vacuum generators 56 and suction cups 58 to move closer together into the second predetermined array A2.

[0036] Figures 4A and 4B are schematics illustrating operation of an apparatus for picking and spacing food product 30 between predetermined arrays A1 , A2. Figure 4A depicts the apparatus in an infeed configuration, with a plurality of equally-spaced food product 30 picked and held along a length of the apparatus by picking devices 54 in a first array A1 . Picking devices 54 are slidably disposed and movable either way in the X direction (e.g., via rods (not shown in Figures 4A and 4B)). Comb assembly 60 comprises a plurality of elongate channels 62 configured to engage the picking devices 54 via pins 55. The elongate channels 62 extend in the Y direction, which in this example is generally transverse to the first direction. In Figure 4A, the pins 55 are positioned at first end portions of the elongate channels 62. Actuators 70 are coupled to either end of the comb assembly 60 and are configured to move the comb assembly 60 relative to the picking devices 54 in the Y direction.

[0037] In Figure 4B, the comb assembly 60 has been moved relative to the picking devices 54 via actuators 70, causing the pins 55 to move in the Y direction from the first end portions of the channels 62 to the second end portions. This may be accomplished by holding the picking devices 54 stationary in the Y direction while moving the comb assembly 60. Alternatively, this may be accomplished by holding the comb assembly 60 stationary while moving the picking devices 54 in the Y direction. In Figure 4B, the picking devices 54 have been moved from the first predetermined array A1 to the second predetermined array A2. As with theinfeed configuration depicted in Figure 4A, the picking devices 54 continue to hold a plurality of equally-spaced food product 30 in Figure 4B, albeit in a more tightly-packed configuration suitable for placing the product in packaging.

[0038] The comb assembly 60 is preferably readily removable from the base assembly and exchangeable, for example if the comb assembly needs to be cleaned or where multiple interchangeable comb assemblies are otherwise desired. Thus, a system may be provided comprising a base assembly, in combination with one or more interchangeable comb assemblies. Multiple substantially identical comb assemblies may be provided, for example, to permit use of a single base assembly with one comb assembly while another substantially identical interchangeable comb assembly is being cleaned. Multiple interchangeable comb assemblies may also be provided with a single base assembly, each with distinct array / spacing configurations. This permits a single base assembly to be used in different infeed and / or packaging conditions, for example, simply by swapping out comb assemblies.

[0039] The comb assembly 60 illustrated in Figure 3A may be disassembled from the base assembly 51 , e.g. for purposes of cleaning or changing formats, by removing retaining fasteners 74 from the pneumatic cylinder rod ends. This permits the comb assembly 60 to be removed as a single unit, by sliding the assembly in the Y direction towards the fasteners until the comb assembly clears the retaining guides 76. Extra room may be provided at the end(s) of the guiding channels 62 to allow the comb to be pulled out further once the fasteners 74 have been removed. Reliefs 78 may be provided in the comb assembly 60 to allow the assembly to clear the retaining guides 76, if necessary. Once the comb assembly 60 clears the retaining guides, the assembly may be lifted off the base assembly 51 to disengage the pins 55 of the picking devices 54 from the guiding members 62. The disassembled comb assembly 60 may now be cleaned, for example, and then reassembled with the base assembly 51 . Alternatively, a different comb assembly with the same or different array characteristics may be provided and assembled with the base assembly 51 .

[0040] Various other similar apparatuses and methods could be used to control the position of picking devices in a base movable loading head. Figures 5 and 6 illustrates examples of other interchangeable comb assemblies according to this application, which may be configured to engage and guide picking devices of a movable loading head between predetermined arrays. Figure 5 shows a comb assembly 160 comprising a cylindrical surface. Comb assembly 160 comprises a plurality of elongate guiding members 162, each having a first end portion associated with a first predetermined array, a second portion opposite the first end portion associated with a second predetermined array, and a body portion extending between the first and second portions. As shown in Figure 5, the elongate guiding members 162 extend in a radial direction about the cylindrical surface.

[0041] The elongate guiding members 162 are configured to slidingly engage picking devices of a base assembly (not shown), as described above. For example, the elongate guiding members 162 may comprise cam tracks configured to engage pins of picking devices. In the assembled configuration, the elongate guiding members 162 extend generally in one direction (e.g., a Y direction), which is a different direction than the direction of movement of the picking devices to and between predetermined arrays (e.g., an X direction).The comb assembly 160 is movable relative to the base assembly and picking devices in the Y direction.

[0042] Moving the comb assembly 160 relative to the base assembly in the Y direction causes the cam tracks 162 to guide the picking devices between first and second end portions of the tracks. This, in turn, causes the picking devices to move in the X direction. One or more actuators 170 may be provided to assist in moving the comb assembly 160 relative to the base assembly. As shown in Figure 5, the comb assembly 160 may be rotated using an actuator 170 in the form of a pneumatic cylinder coupled with the comb assembly 160 via a linkage assembly 171. The linkage assembly 171 is configured such that actuating the pneumatic cylinder 170 between extended and retracted configurations causes the cylindrical comb assembly 160 to rotate back and forth about a center rotation axis C. This, in turn,causes the cam tracks 162 to guide the picking devices (not shown) between predetermined arrays.

[0043] Figure 6 shows a comb assembly 260 comprising a plate structure. Comb assembly 260 comprises a plurality of elongate guiding members 262, each having a first end portion associated with a first predetermined array, a second portion opposite the first end portion associated with a second predetermined array, and a body portion extending between the first and second portions. As shown in Figure 6, the elongate guiding members 262 extend in a radial direction about the cylindrical surface.

[0044] The elongate guiding members 262 are configured to slidingly engage picking devices of a base assembly (not shown), as described above. For example, the elongate guiding members 262 may comprise cam tracks configured to engage pins 255 of picking devices. In the assembled configuration, the elongate guiding members 262 extend generally in one direction (e.g., a Y direction), which is a different direction than the direction of movement of the picking devices to and between predetermined arrays (e.g., an X direction). The comb assembly 260 is movable relative to the base assembly and picking devices in the Y direction.

[0045] Moving the comb assembly 260 relative to the base assembly in the Y direction causes the cam tracks 262 to guide the picking devices between first and second end portions of the tracks. This, in turn, causes the picking devices to move in the X direction. The tracks may be configured, individually and collectively, to alter the distance of the pins from the center as the plate is rotated. One or more actuators 270 may be provided to assist in moving the comb assembly 260 relative to the base assembly. As shown in Figure 6, the comb assembly 260 may be rotated using an actuator 270 in the form of a pneumatic cylinder coupled with the comb assembly 260 via a linkage assembly 271 . The linkage assembly 271 is configured such that actuating the pneumatic cylinder 270 between extended and retracted configurations causes the cylindrical comb assembly 260 to pivot back and forth about a center vertical axis C. This, in turn, causes the cam tracks 162 to guide the picking devices (not shown) between predetermined arrays.

[0046] In the examples described above, the predetermined arrays of the picking devices may be determined by the configuration of the guide channels in the comb assemblies. The movement of the actuators determines where along the guide channels the pins are, and the configuration of the guide channels (individually and collectively) determines the relative spacing of the pins at any given location along the channels. The examples above allow for at least one predetermined array for picking product, and at least another predetermined array for placing product. Other examples are contemplated where more than two predetermined arrays are desired, and in that case an actuator with more than two positions could be used in combination with guide channels configured to provide for more than two predetermined array configurations. For example, a comb assembly may be provided with guide channels having one or more intermediate portions associated with predetermined arrays (in addition to, or instead of, predetermined array(s) associated with end portion(s)).

[0047] The nature of the comb assembly allows the movable loading head to continue to function even if one or more picking devices of the base assembly are removed (resulting in a greater number of guide members than picking devices). This again allows the user to vary the amount of product in an array set using a single base tool, and single comb assembly. Due to one part (comb assembly) controlling many others (picking devices), the overall part count for the loading head is reduced from what in the prior art is typically a numerous amount of small interlinking parts. Besides the reduced parts count, the way parts join and interact greatly reduces large flat overlapping surfaces making the apparatus easier to clean and maintain. The novel apparatuses described here provide for a simple changeover procedure to match other package patterns with limited disassembly tools while also reducing the cost of tooling.

[0048] The following are example claims:

[0049] 1 . An apparatus for picking and spacing food product, the apparatus comprising: a base assembly comprising a plurality of picking devices configured to pick and hold a food product, the plurality of picking devices movable in a first direction between a first predetermined array and asecond predetermined array; a comb assembly comprising a plurality of elongate guide members, each of the plurality of elongate guide members configured to engage one of the plurality of picking devices; where the plurality of elongate guide members is configured to guide the plurality of picking devices between the first and second predetermined arrays when the comb assembly is moved relative to the base assembly in a second direction different than the first direction.

[0050] 2. The apparatus of claim 1 , where the first predetermined array is characterized by a first picking device spacing and the second predetermined array is characterized by a second picking device spacing.

[0051] 3. The apparatus of claim 2, where the second picking device spacing is less than the first picking device spacing.

[0052] 4. The apparatus of claim 1 , where the plurality of picking devices comprises a first array set and a second array set.

[0053] 5. The apparatus of claim 4, where in the first predetermined array the first array set is spaced apart from the second array set by a first array spacing and in the second predetermined array the first array set is spaced apart from the second array set by a second array spacing, the first spacing different than the second spacing.

[0054] 6. The apparatus of claim 1 , where the elongate guiding members are curvilinear.

[0055] 7. The apparatus of claim 1 , where the comb assembly comprises a plate, and the elongate guiding members are disposed along a surface of the plate.

[0056] 8. The apparatus of claim 1 , where the comb assembly comprises a cylindrical surface, and the elongate guiding members extend in a radial direction about the cylindrical surface.

[0057] 9. The apparatus of claim 1 , where each of the plurality of picking devices comprises a pin configured to engage one of the plurality of elongate guiding members.

[0058] 10. The apparatus of claim 1 , where the second direction is generally transverse to the first direction.

[0059] 11 . The apparatus of claim 10, where the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction.

[0060] 12. The apparatus of claim 1 , where the plurality of picking devices is movable in the first direction to a third predetermined array.

[0061] 13. The apparatus of claim 1 , where the plurality of elongate members is configured to guide the plurality of picking devices to a third predetermined array.

[0062] 14. The apparatus of claim 1 , where: the plurality of picking devices is movable in the first direction between a third predetermined array and a fourth predetermined array, the apparatus further comprising: a second comb assembly, the second comb assembly comprising a plurality of elongate guide members, each of the plurality of elongate guide members of the second comb assembly configured to engage one of the plurality of picking devices; where the plurality of elongate guide members of the second comb assembly is configured to guide the plurality of picking devices between the third and fourth predetermined arrays when the second comb assembly is moved relative to the base assembly in the second direction.

[0063] 15. The apparatus of claim 14, where the third predetermined array is the same as one of the first and second predetermined arrays.

[0064] 16. The system of claim 15, where the fourth predetermined array is the same as one of the first and second predetermined arrays.

[0065] 17. The system of claim 15, where the fourth predetermined array is different than the first and second predetermined arrays.

[0066] 18. The apparatus of claim 14, where the third predetermined array is different than the first and second predetermined arrays.

[0067] 19. The system of claim 18, where the fourth predetermined array is the same as one of the first and second predetermined arrays.

[0068] 20. The system of claim 18, where the fourth predetermined array is different than the first and second predetermined arrays.

[0069] 21 . The apparatus of claim 1 , comprising an actuator configured to move the comb assembly relative to the base assembly in the second direction.

[0070] 22. The apparatus of claim 1 , where the picking devices comprise a vacuum generator and suction cup.

[0071] 23. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising a second comb assembly configured to engage and guide the plurality of picking devices between a third predetermined array and a fourth predetermined array when the second comb assembly is moved relative to the base assembly in the second direction.

[0072] 24. The apparatus of claim 1 comprising one or more of the following: a. the first predetermined array is characterized by a first picking device spacing and the second predetermined array is characterized by a second picking device spacing; b. the second picking device spacing is less than the first picking device spacing; c. the plurality of picking devices comprises a first array set and a second array set; d. in the first predetermined array the first array set is spaced apart from the second array set by a first array spacing and in the second predetermined array the first array set is spaced apart from the second array set by a second array spacing, the first spacing different than the second spacing; e. the elongate guiding members are curvilinear; f. the comb assembly comprises a plate, and the elongate guiding members are disposed along a surface of the plate; g. the comb assembly comprises a cylindrical surface, and the elongate guiding members extend in a radial direction about the cylindrical surface; h. each of the plurality of picking devices comprises a pin configured to engage one of the plurality of elongate guiding members; i. the second direction is generally transverse to the first direction; j. the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction;k. where the plurality of picking devices is movable in the first direction to a third predetermined array; l. where the plurality of elongate members is configured to guide the plurality of picking devices to a third predetermined array; m. the plurality of picking devices is movable in the first direction between a third predetermined array and a fourth predetermined array; n. a second comb assembly, the second comb assembly comprising a plurality of elongate guide members, each of the plurality of elongate guide members of the second comb assembly configured to engage one of the plurality of picking devices; o. the plurality of elongate guide members of the second comb assembly is configured to guide the plurality of picking devices between the third and fourth predetermined arrays when the second comb assembly is moved relative to the base assembly in the second direction; p. the third predetermined array is the same as one of the first and second predetermined arrays; q. the third predetermined array is different than the first and second predetermined arrays; r. the fourth predetermined array is the same as one of the first and second predetermined arrays; s. the fourth predetermined array is different than the first and second predetermined arrays; t. an actuator configured to move the comb assembly relative to the base assembly in the second direction; u. the picking devices comprise a vacuum generator and suction cup; and v. a second comb assembly configured to engage and guide the plurality of picking devices between a third predetermined array and a fourth predetermined array when the second combassembly is moved relative to the base assembly in the second direction.

[0073] 25. An apparatus for picking and spacing food product, the apparatus comprising: a movable loading head; a plurality of picking devices carried by the loading head and configured to pick and hold a food product while the loading head is moved, the plurality of picking devices movable in a first direction between a first predetermined array characterized by a first picking device spacing and a second predetermined array characterized by a second picking device spacing; a comb assembly comprising a plurality of elongate guide members, each of the plurality of elongate guide members configured to engage one of the plurality of picking devices and having a first end portion associated with the first predetermined array, a second end portion associated with the second predetermined array, and a body portion extending between the first and second end portions; where the plurality of elongate members is configured to guide the plurality of picking devices between the first and second predetermined arrays when the comb assembly is moved relative to the picking devices in a second direction different than the first direction.

[0074] 26. The apparatus of claim 25, where the second picking device spacing is less than the first picking device spacing.

[0075] 27. The apparatus of claim 25, where the plurality of picking devices comprises a first array set and a second array set.

[0076] 28. The apparatus of claim 27, where in the first predetermined array the first array set is spaced apart from the second array set by a first array spacing and in the second predetermined array the first array set is spaced apart from the second array set by a second array spacing, the first spacing different than the second spacing.

[0077] 29. The apparatus of claim 25, where the elongate guiding members are curvilinear.

[0078] 30. The apparatus of claim 25, where the comb assembly comprises a plate, and the elongate guiding members are disposed along a surface of the plate.

[0079] 31 . The apparatus of claim 25, where the comb assembly comprises a cylindrical surface, and the elongate guiding members extend in a radial direction about the cylindrical surface.

[0080] 32. The apparatus of claim 25, where each of the plurality of picking devices comprises a pin configured to engage one of the plurality of elongate guiding members.

[0081] 33. The apparatus of claim 25, where the second direction is generally transverse to the first direction.

[0082] 34. The apparatus of claim 33, where the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction.

[0083] 35. The apparatus of claim 25, where the plurality of picking devices is movable in the first direction to a third predetermined array.

[0084] 36. The apparatus of claim 25, where the plurality of elongate members is configured to guide the plurality of picking devices to a third predetermined array.

[0085] 37. The apparatus of claim 25, where: the plurality of picking devices is movable in the first direction between a third predetermined array and a fourth predetermined array, the apparatus further comprising: a second comb assembly, the second comb assembly comprising a plurality of elongate guide members, each of the plurality of elongate guide members of the second comb assembly configured to engage one of the plurality of picking devices; where the plurality of elongate guide members of the second comb assembly is configured to guide the plurality of picking devices between the third and fourth predetermined arrays when the second comb assembly is moved relative to the picking devices in the second direction.

[0086] 38. The apparatus of claim 37, where the third predetermined array is the same as one of the first and second predetermined arrays.

[0087] 39. The system of claim 38, where the fourth predetermined array is the same as one of the first and second predetermined arrays.

[0088] 40. The system of claim 38, where the fourth predetermined array is different than the first and second predetermined arrays.

[0089] 41 . The apparatus of claim 37, where the third predetermined array is different than the first and second predetermined arrays.

[0090] 42. The system of claim 41 , where the fourth predetermined array is the same as one of the first and second predetermined arrays.

[0091] 43. The system of claim 41 , where the fourth predetermined array is different than the first and second predetermined arrays.

[0092] 44. The apparatus of claim 25, comprising an actuator configured to move the comb assembly relative to the picking devices in the second direction.

[0093] 45. The apparatus of claim 25, where the picking devices comprise a vacuum generator and suction cup.

[0094] 46. The apparatus of claim 25, further comprising a second comb assembly configured to engage and guide the plurality of picking devices between a third predetermined array and a fourth predetermined array when the second comb assembly is moved relative to the picking devices in the second direction.

[0095] 47. The apparatus of claim 25 comprising one or more of the following: a. The second picking device spacing is less than the first picking device spacing; b. the plurality of picking devices comprises a first array set and a second array set; c. in the first predetermined array the first array set is spaced apart from the second array set by a first array spacing and in the second predetermined array the first array set is spaced apart from the second array set by a second array spacing, the first spacing different than the second spacing; d. the elongate guiding members are curvilinear; e. the comb assembly comprises a plate, and the elongate guiding members are disposed along a surface of the plate; f. the comb assembly comprises a cylindrical surface, and the elongate guiding members extend in a radial direction about the cylindrical surface;g. each of the plurality of picking devices comprises a pin configured to engage one of the plurality of elongate guiding members; h. the second direction is generally transverse to the first direction; i. the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction; j. the plurality of picking devices is movable in the first direction to a third predetermined array; k. the plurality of elongate members is configured to guide the plurality of picking devices to a third predetermined array; l. the plurality of picking devices is movable in the first direction between a third predetermined array and a fourth predetermined array; m. a second comb assembly, the second comb assembly comprising a plurality of elongate guide members, each of the plurality of elongate guide members of the second comb assembly configured to engage one of the plurality of picking devices; n. the plurality of elongate guide members of the second comb assembly is configured to guide the plurality of picking devices between the third and fourth predetermined arrays when the second comb assembly is moved relative to the picking devices in the second direction; o. the third predetermined array is the same as one of the first and second predetermined arrays; p. the third predetermined array is different than the first and second predetermined arrays; q. the fourth predetermined array is the same as one of the first and second predetermined arrays; r. the fourth predetermined array is different than the first and second predetermined arrays; s. an actuator configured to move the comb assembly relative to the picking devices in the second direction;t. the picking devices comprise a vacuum generator and suction cup; and u. a second comb assembly configured to engage and guide the plurality of picking devices between a third predetermined array and a fourth predetermined array when the second comb assembly is moved relative to the picking devices in the second direction.

[0096] 48. A system for picking and spacing food product, the system comprising: a base assembly comprising a plurality of picking devices configured to pick and hold a food product, the plurality of picking devices movable to and between a plurality of predetermined arrays; a first interchangeable comb assembly configured to engage and guide the plurality of picking devices between a first predetermined array and a second predetermined array; and a second interchangeable comb assembly configured to engage and guide the plurality of picking devices between a third predetermined array and a fourth predetermined array.

[0097] 49. The system of claim 48, where the plurality of picking devices is movable in a first direction to and between the plurality of predetermined arrays, the first interchangeable comb assembly is configured to guide the plurality of picking devices between the first and second predetermined arrays when the first interchangeable comb assembly is moved relative to the base assembly in a second direction different than the first direction, and the second interchangeable comb assembly is configured to guide the plurality of picking devices between the third and fourth predetermined arrays when the second interchangeable comb assembly is moved relative to the base assembly in the second direction.

[0098] 50. The apparatus of claim 48, where the third predetermined array is the same as one of the first and second predetermined arrays.

[0099] 51 . The system of claim 50, where the fourth predetermined array is the same as one of the first and second predetermined arrays.

[0100] 52. The system of claim 50, where the fourth predetermined array is different than the first and second predetermined arrays.

[0101] 53. The system of claim 48, where the third predetermined array is different than the first and second predetermined arrays.

[0102] 54. The system of claim 53, where the fourth predetermined array is the same as one of the first and second predetermined arrays.

[0103] 55. The system of claim 53, where the fourth predetermined array is different than the first and second predetermined arrays.

[0104] 56. The system of claim 48, comprising an actuator configured to move the comb assembly relative to the base assembly in the second direction.

[0105] 57. The system of claim 48 comprising one or more of the following: a. the plurality of picking devices is movable in a first direction to and between the plurality of predetermined arrays; b. the first interchangeable comb assembly is configured to guide the plurality of picking devices between the first and second predetermined arrays when the first interchangeable comb assembly is moved relative to the base assembly in a second direction different than the first direction; c. the second interchangeable comb assembly is configured to guide the plurality of picking devices between the third and fourth predetermined arrays when the second interchangeable comb assembly is moved relative to the base assembly in the second direction; d. the third predetermined array is the same as one of the first and second predetermined arrays; e. the third predetermined array is different than the first and second predetermined arrays; f. the fourth predetermined array is the same as one of the first and second predetermined arrays; g. the fourth predetermined array is different than the first and second predetermined arrays; and h. an actuator configured to move the comb assembly relative to the base assembly in the second direction.

[0106] Although the invention has been described and illustrated with reference to specific illustrative examples thereof, it is not intended that the invention be limited to those examples. Those skilled in the art will recognize that variations and modifications can be made without departing from the true scope and spirit of the inventions as defined by the claims that follow. It is therefore intended to include within the inventions all such variations and modifications as fall within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereof.

Claims

I claim:1 . An apparatus for picking and spacing food product, the apparatus comprising: a base assembly comprising a plurality of picking devices configured to pick and hold a food product, the plurality of picking devices movable in a first direction between a first predetermined array and a second predetermined array; a comb assembly comprising a plurality of elongate guide members, each of the plurality of elongate guide members configured to engage one of the plurality of picking devices; where the plurality of elongate guide members is configured to guide the plurality of picking devices between the first and second predetermined arrays when the comb assembly is moved relative to the base assembly in a second direction different than the first direction.

2. The apparatus of claim 1 , where the first predetermined array comprises a first picking device spacing and the second predetermined array comprises a second picking device spacing that is less than the first picking device spacing.

3. The apparatus of claim 1 , where the plurality of picking devices comprises a first array set and a second array set.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, where in the first predetermined array the first array set is spaced apart from the second array set by a first array spacing and in the second predetermined array the first array set is spaced apart from the second array set by a second array spacing, the first spacing different than the second spacing.

5. The apparatus of claim 1 , where the elongate guiding members are curvilinear.

6. The apparatus of claim 1 , where the comb assembly comprises at least one of: (a) a plate, and the elongate guiding members are disposed along asurface of the plate; and (b) a cylindrical surface, and the elongate guiding members extend in a radial direction about the cylindrical surface.

7. The apparatus of claim 1 , where each of the plurality of picking devices comprises a pin configured to engage one of the plurality of elongate guiding members.

8. The apparatus of claim 1 , where the second direction is generally transverse to the first direction.

9. The apparatus of claim 1 , where the plurality of picking devices is movable in the first direction to a third predetermined array.

10. The apparatus of claim 1 , where the plurality of elongate members is configured to guide the plurality of picking devices to a third predetermined array.11 . The apparatus of claim 1 , where: the plurality of picking devices is movable in the first direction between a third predetermined array and a fourth predetermined array, the apparatus further comprising: a second comb assembly, the second comb assembly comprising a plurality of elongate guide members, each of the plurality of elongate guide members of the second comb assembly configured to engage one of the plurality of picking devices; where the plurality of elongate guide members of the second comb assembly is configured to guide the plurality of picking devices between the third and fourth predetermined arrays when the second comb assembly is moved relative to the base assembly in the second direction.

12. The apparatus of claim 11 , comprising one or more of the following: (a) the third predetermined array is the same as one of the first and second predetermined arrays; (b) the third predetermined array is different than the first and second predetermined arrays; (c) the fourth predetermined array is the same as one of the first and second predetermined arrays; and (d) thefourth predetermined array is different than the first and second predetermined arrays.

13. The apparatus of claim 1 , comprising an actuator configured to move the comb assembly relative to the base assembly in the second direction.

14. The apparatus of claim 1 , where the picking devices comprise a vacuum generator and suction cup.

15. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising a second comb assembly configured to engage and guide the plurality of picking devices between a third predetermined array and a fourth predetermined array when the second comb assembly is moved relative to the base assembly in the second direction.

16. An apparatus for picking and spacing food product, the apparatus comprising: a movable loading head; a plurality of picking devices carried by the loading head and configured to pick and hold a food product while the loading head is moved, the plurality of picking devices movable in a first direction between a first predetermined array comprising a first picking device spacing and a second predetermined array comprising a second picking device spacing; a comb assembly comprising a plurality of elongate guide members, each of the plurality of elongate guide members configured to engage one of the plurality of picking devices and having a first end portion associated with the first predetermined array, a second end portion associated with the second predetermined array, and a body portion extending between the first and second end portions; where the plurality of elongate members is configured to guide the plurality of picking devices between the first and second predetermined arrays when the comb assembly is moved relative to the picking devices in a second direction different than the first direction.

17. The apparatus of claim 16, where the second picking device spacing is less than the first picking device spacing.

18. The apparatus of claim 16, where the plurality of picking devices comprises a first array set and a second array set.

19. The apparatus of claim 18, where in the first predetermined array the first array set is spaced apart from the second array set by a first array spacing and in the second predetermined array the first array set is spaced apart from the second array set by a second array spacing, the first spacing different than the second spacing.

20. The apparatus of claim 16, where the elongate guiding members are curvilinear.21 . The apparatus of claim 16, where the comb assembly comprises at least one of: (a) a plate, and the elongate guiding members are disposed along a surface of the plate; and (b) a cylindrical surface, and the elongate guiding members extend in a radial direction about the cylindrical surface.

22. The apparatus of claim 16, where each of the plurality of picking devices comprises a pin configured to engage one of the plurality of elongate guiding members.

23. The apparatus of claim 16, where the second direction is generally transverse to the first direction.

24. The apparatus of claim 16, where the plurality of picking devices is movable in the first direction to a third predetermined array.

25. The apparatus of claim 16, where the plurality of elongate members is configured to guide the plurality of picking devices to a third predetermined array.

26. The apparatus of claim 16, where: the plurality of picking devices is movable in the first direction between a third predetermined array and a fourth predetermined array, the apparatus further comprising: a second comb assembly, the second comb assembly comprising a plurality of elongate guide members, each of the pluralityof elongate guide members of the second comb assembly configured to engage one of the plurality of picking devices; where the plurality of elongate guide members of the second comb assembly is configured to guide the plurality of picking devices between the third and fourth predetermined arrays when the second comb assembly is moved relative to the picking devices in the second direction.

27. The apparatus of claim 26, comprising one or more of the following: (a) the third predetermined array is the same as one of the first and second predetermined arrays; (b) the third predetermined array is different than the first and second predetermined arrays; (c) the fourth predetermined array is the same as one of the first and second predetermined arrays; and (d) the fourth predetermined array is different than the first and second predetermined arrays.

28. The apparatus of claim 16, comprising an actuator configured to move the comb assembly relative to the picking devices in the second direction.

29. The apparatus of claim 16, where the picking devices comprise a vacuum generator and suction cup.

30. The apparatus of claim 16, further comprising a second comb assembly configured to engage and guide the plurality of picking devices between a third predetermined array and a fourth predetermined array when the second comb assembly is moved relative to the picking devices in the second direction.31 . A system for picking and spacing food product, the system comprising: a base assembly comprising a plurality of picking devices configured to pick and hold a food product, the plurality of picking devices movable to and between a plurality of predetermined arrays; a first interchangeable comb assembly configured to engage and guide the plurality of picking devices between a first predetermined array and a second predetermined array; anda second interchangeable comb assembly configured to engage and guide the plurality of picking devices between a third predetermined array and a fourth predetermined array.

32. The system of claim 31 , where the plurality of picking devices is movable in a first direction to and between the plurality of predetermined arrays, the first interchangeable comb assembly is configured to guide the plurality of picking devices between the first and second predetermined arrays when the first interchangeable comb assembly is moved relative to the base assembly in a second direction different than the first direction, and the second interchangeable comb assembly is configured to guide the plurality of picking devices between the third and fourth predetermined arrays when the second interchangeable comb assembly is moved relative to the base assembly in the second direction.

33. The system of claim 31 , comprising one or more of the following: (a) the third predetermined array is the same as one of the first and second predetermined arrays; (b) the third predetermined array is different than the first and second predetermined arrays; (c) the fourth predetermined array is the same as one of the first and second predetermined arrays; and (d) the fourth predetermined array is different than the first and second predetermined arrays.

34. The system of claim 31 , comprising an actuator configured to move the comb assembly relative to the base assembly in the second direction.

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