Apparatus and method for conveying articles in the food processing industry

Abstract

The present invention relates to an apparatus (10) for conveying articles (11) in the food processing industry, comprising a conveying device (12) which is configured to convey the articles (11) along a conveying path (13) in a transport direction (14) and which has a plurality of holding elements (15) configured to receive the articles (11), wherein the holding elements (15) comprise a conveying section (16), in conveying engagement with the conveying device (12), and an arrangement section (17) designed and configured for arrangement of the articles (11), wherein the holding elements (15) furthermore each comprise at least one coupling unit (18) which is designed and configured for releasable coupling and / or uncoupling between the conveying section (16) and the arrangement section (17), wherein the coupling unit (18), during the conveying of the holding elements (15) along the conveying path (13) in transport direction (14), is designed and configured to be controllable in such a way that a coupling and / or uncoupling between the conveying section (16) and the arrangement section (17) can be embodied and configured at least in one segment of the conveying path (13). The invention further relates to a corresponding method for conveying articles in the food processing industry.

Description

[0001] FPI Food Processing Innovation GmbH & Co. KG, Roggenhorster Str. 9c, 23556 Lübeck

[0002] Device and method for conveying articles of the food processing industry

[0003] Description

[0004] The present invention relates to a device for conveying articles of the food processing industry, in particular poultry hanging by its legs or poultry legs.

[0005] Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for conveying articles of the food processing industry, in particular poultry hanging by its legs or poultry legs.

[0006] Devices and methods for conveying articles from the food processing industry, in particular poultry hanging by its legs or poultry legs, have been known in the art for many years and serve, in particular, to supply the articles to processing stations located within the area of ​​the device, as well as to transport the articles from a starting point to a destination. Such devices are regularly integrated into a more complex system with several assemblies or further upstream and / or downstream device or machine components. The devices preferably include additional upstream and / or downstream device elements that are already known, in order to design and configure the intended use of such devices in the field of industrial food processing.Furthermore, corresponding processes can be implemented using a more complex device or system with several upstream and / or downstream assemblies or additional device or machine components. The processes preferably include further upstream and / or downstream generally known process steps for the corresponding conveying of articles from the food processing industry. Such devices and processes are used particularly in the processing of poultry legs, especially for meat extraction. Currently, articles from the food processing industry, particularly poultry or poultry legs hanging by their legs, are always suspended at the ankle joints in a holding element attached to a conveying system. Such holding elements for conveying poultry or poultry legs are called shackles.Depending on the design and objectives of the processing of food processing products, different processing stations or areas of a system must be traversed. When a change of conveyor system is required, the food processing products generally need to be detached from their holding elements. For example, when conveying poultry or poultry legs, the respective leg must be removed from the shackle of one conveyor system and attached to another. Such repositioning is regularly carried out manually, as food processing products, especially poultry or poultry legs, are typically natural products that are securely attached to the holding elements and require individual handling.However, there are also some known transfer units that reposition the respective food processing industry items from their corresponding holding elements. These transfer units perform a largely automated transfer of individual food processing industry items from one holding element to another. Furthermore, the transfer unit does not fulfill the task of repositioning with satisfactory reliability. This insufficient repositioning is due to the undefined nature of the items in the food industry, particularly natural products. For example, in cases of anatomical peculiarities of the respective items, only individual and selective handling is possible.Furthermore, due to the unreliable handling, monitoring and, if necessary, manual intervention are always required, as items remaining on the fixtures can lead to significant complications in the processing. Moreover, the existing fixtures do not allow for the targeted or separate conveying of items transported by holding elements, as individual process control of the conveyed items is not provided for.

[0007] Another disadvantage is that transferring the items between the individual conveyor systems within the entire plant changes the position and orientation, particularly of the poultry legs, which is essential for safe access to the processing stations arranged along the plant. Furthermore, the known holding elements, especially the shackles, are designed without a predetermined breaking point, which can lead to damage to the processing modules and the entire device in the event of a malfunction.

[0008] Devices for conveying articles in the food processing industry, particularly poultry hanging by its legs or poultry legs, must be secured against unintentional movement and / or to ensure reliable positioning, depending on the intended processing. The necessary holding elements therefore have specific dimensions to guarantee targeted and secure positioning. For this reason, the holding elements, especially for poultry hanging by its legs, have an opening size appropriate to the thickness of the legs for engaging during conveying. Depending on the type, size, and / or age of the poultry or poultry leg being conveyed, different holding elements are required, which may need to be specifically selected.To securely hold various items used in the food processing industry, especially poultry hanging by its legs, shackles are offered with different opening sizes. In some cases, this means that a single device can only handle a specific size of item, requiring either multiple devices to be kept in parallel or time-consuming reconfiguration of the holding elements on the devices.

[0009] Furthermore, continuous conveying with the known devices and methods does not allow for satisfactory and needs-based adjustment of the items or interaction during the individual processing steps. If quality problems are detected during conveying, the continuous nature of the process prevents timely correction or resolution. This can lead to an increased scrap rate, as defective products may not be removed from the production process in a timely manner. Due to the inability to selectively and individually remove individual retaining elements along with the items, effective quality assurance is not possible. This can lead to defects or quality problems in the affected items, necessitating manual rework or re-inspection. This, in turn, leads to higher costs and further problems with conveying the items.It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a device for conveying articles of the food processing industry, in particular poultry hanging by its legs or poultry legs, wherein, on the one hand, continuous, cost-effective and individual conveying of the articles is to be ensured and, on the other hand, a reliable and versatile application of the device is to be created. Furthermore, it is an object of the present invention to provide a corresponding method for conveying articles of the food processing industry, in particular poultry hanging by its legs or poultry legs.

[0010] This task is solved by the aforementioned device for conveying articles of the food processing industry, comprising a conveying device configured for conveying the articles along a conveying path in a transport direction at a conveying speed, with a plurality of holding elements configured for receiving the articles, wherein the holding elements comprise a conveying section engaged with the conveying device and an arrangement section designed and configured for arranging the articles, wherein the holding elements each further comprise at least one coupling unit designed and configured for releasable coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section and the arrangement section, wherein the coupling unit is designed and configured to be controllable during the conveying of the holding elements along the conveying path in the transport direction,that at least in one segment of the conveying line, a coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section and the arrangement section can be designed and set up.

[0011] The device, in particular the conveying unit, enables the conveying of the holding elements, especially the articles for the food processing industry, along the conveying path at a predetermined conveying speed, whereby coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section and the assembly section can be controlled as needed. The conveying unit allows, for example, an independent and continuous conveying process for the conveying sections, while the assembly sections and the articles for the food processing industry arranged thereon can be decoupled from the conveying unit. Preferably, at least one of the assembly sections can be moved essentially independently of the conveying speed and subsequently fed back to the conveying unit for continuous conveying along the conveying path. The conveying section and the assembly section of the holding element are preferably separate components.Holding element sections that can be detachably connected to each other by means of the coupling unit, wherein the coupling unit may in particular be a component of the conveying section and / or the arrangement section.

[0012] The device according to the invention further ensures that individual articles of the food processing industry, in particular poultry hanging by its legs or poultry legs, can be fed into and / or removed from the device, at least temporarily or in sections, as needed. For this purpose, the assembly section can be decoupled from and reconnected to the conveying section. In this way, for example, reliable, reproducible, and safe measurement of articles of the food processing industry, in particular poultry hanging by its legs or poultry legs, is possible. Preferably, the device according to the invention is generally intended for conveying parts of animals used in the food processing industry or parts of poultry.Preferably, such a device according to the invention is further device components or devices arranged upstream and / or downstream, which capture articles of the food processing industry, in particular poultry hanging by their legs or poultry legs, in order to, for example, draw conclusions about the qualitative condition, the anatomical structure, or other external or internal characteristics. Overall, the device according to the invention offers a dedicated means for the qualitative and / or quantitative assessment of articles of the food processing industry, in particular poultry hanging by their legs or poultry legs. In this way, for example, the articles can be evaluated or sorted by a veterinarian and / or by appropriate imaging methods, as well as sorted according to predefined criteria.Depending on the design of the device according to the invention, a veterinarian can selectively remove further individual assembly sections from the conveyor line or mark them so that corresponding assembly sections containing articles from the food processing industry can be decoupled from the respective conveyor sections. Furthermore, based on the detected articles from the food processing industry, in particular poultry hanging by its legs or poultry legs, a yield-optimized separation of the meat and / or bones, cartilage, or other undesirable poultry parts is possible. Based on the detected articles from the food processing industry, in particular poultry hanging by its legs or poultry legs, wherein in particular the position or...If the position of the intermediate joint, also called the knee joint, can be determined, on the one hand, yield-optimized further processing is possible, and on the other hand, precise cutting lines can be realized, thereby avoiding damage to bones or other components.

[0013] The device according to the invention enables a wide range of applications, both independently and integrated into a complete system for processing articles for the food processing industry, with particular emphasis on its use throughout the entire processing plant. By subdividing the holding elements into a conveying section and an arrangement section, each arrangement section being designed to hold an article from the food processing industry, it is possible to assign the respective article to the respective arrangement section. For this purpose, each arrangement section can preferably have a specific identification feature, for example, an RFID chip, a pattern, etc., to enable identification of the arrangement section within the device.Preferably, the respective item remains on the same assembly section throughout the entire processing, enabling continuous and specific tracking between the item and the assembly section. This ensures traceability of the assembly section and, consequently, of the respective item, thus facilitating reliable quality management and targeted processing. Due to the combination of the respective item and the assembly section of the holding element, a modular system for processing food industry products is achievable, as the assembly section can be coupled or uncoupled at the appropriate points depending on its intended use.This makes it possible to convey the articles to corresponding device components in order to, for example, develop and set up a detection, sorting, intermediate storage, refining, shredding, rejection, transfer, etc.

[0014] During the transport of the holding elements along the conveyor in the direction of travel, the coupling unit can be controlled in such a way that a connection or disconnection between the conveying section and the arrangement section can be established at least in one segment of the conveyor. This allows the items to be positioned and transported efficiently, increasing productivity and ensuring the smooth operation of the corresponding conveying or processing process in the food processing industry. The coupling and / or decoupling provided between the conveying section and the arrangement section also enables easy exchange and adaptation of the individual holding elements to the specific items being conveyed in the food processing industry, particularly poultry hanging by its legs or poultry legs.This also enables individual processing of food processing items, particularly poultry hanging by its legs or poultry legs, and allows individual items to be easily removed from the overall processing process, at least partially, by decoupling the assembly section from the conveyor or the holding element. The ability to remove or process a single item on a section of the system by decoupling it allows for targeted and efficient processing according to specific requirements, anatomical features, dimensions, or other defined factors, independent of the other holding elements or items conveyed by the conveyor. This enables highly precise and targeted processing of the conveyed items to achieve high quality, yield, and efficiency.This results not only in precise and needs-based further processing of the decoupled articles, but also in an overall higher utilization of the device, since there is no need to consider potential rejects when distributing the articles. Such a device also increases the range of possible processing stations. For example, various cutting devices, inspection units, or other imaging units can be used, where the most stable arrangement or independent processing of the articles to be scanned must be ensured.

[0015] A key component of the invention is the two-part holding element, the two parts of which are couplingly connected to each other by means of the coupling unit. The upper half of the holding element, the conveying section, is connected to the conveying device, and the lower half of the holding element, the arrangement section, is designed and configured for arranging the articles, in particular the poultry legs. This eliminates the need to transfer the articles, especially the poultry legs, from the holding element to a processing station or another holding element; instead, only the arrangement section, on which the articles, especially the poultry legs, are arranged, needs to be transferred. Advantageously, a defined segment is provided along the conveying path to ensure the safe conveying and transfer of the arrangement section.Preferably, defined segments are distributed separately within the device according to the invention in order to process or transfer the respective articles individually at the desired location. The processing is thus no longer tied to a predetermined conveying path, as is the case with known conveying systems. Preferably, the conveying device transports the holding elements, or at least the conveying sections, along the conveying path at a substantially continuous conveying speed.

[0016] The defined segment preferably enables automatic or automated coupling and / or uncoupling, allowing holding elements for differently sized items, particularly poultry of varying sizes, to be automatically inserted into the device according to the invention. Depending on the intended use of the invention, it is further preferred to either replace all holding elements of a given size or to replace only individual holding elements as required. This makes it possible to convey differently sized items in a single device. Since the items, especially the poultry legs, are always located in the same holding element or assembly section, the position and orientation of the item, particularly the poultry legs, do not change, which enables precise handling, especially detection and processing.Overall, the device according to the invention for conveying articles of the food processing industry enables a modular construction of a corresponding conveying line with the possibility of targeted and application-specific coupling / decoupling of the respective arrangement sections of the holding elements.

[0017] Preferably, the holding element comprises at least one separation point, in particular a predetermined breaking point, which, upon exceeding a predetermined force applied to the holding element and / or the conveyed article, automatically releases in the area of ​​the separation point. The coupling of the assembly section and the conveying section simplifies the integration of a separation point into the device, particularly in the area of ​​the coupling unit, thereby preventing major damage to the holding elements, the conveying device, or the entire device.

[0018] The coupling unit of the holding element is preferably designed according to the items to be conveyed and / or the machining operations to be performed with the device. The type of coupling unit offers various advantages and configurations that can vary depending on the requirements and needs of the application. Various options are available for mechanical, pneumatic, or hydraulic couplings. The coupling units provide a simple and reliable connection solution, with bolts and corresponding receptacles, for example, ensuring a secure connection while also enabling easy installation. Positive-locking connections guarantee precise alignment and positioning, while friction-locking connections enable robust force transmission.In the field of electromechanical coupling, magnetic connections offer the advantage of a contactless connection, enabling fast and silent coupling and decoupling. Magnets can be precisely controlled to ensure secure fixation. Depending on the specific requirements of the application, the coupling units can be selected accordingly to guarantee optimal performance and reliability.

[0019] The device according to the invention is preferably designed for processing the articles. Processing, as used in the invention, means any interaction with or on the articles, particularly poultry legs, especially for the mechanical or manual extraction of meat or meat components. Such processing includes, in particular, cutting or separating the articles, such as extracting meat or removing parts of the articles. The term "processing" also includes inspecting the articles, for example, visually or mechanically detecting or examining them for quality, integrity, or other characteristics. Furthermore, the term includes further processing, that is, carrying out steps for the further processing of the articles, such as removing skin or meat, mincing, or cutting into smaller pieces.Furthermore, the device according to the invention enables sorting or marking of the articles, for example, by marking, separating, or sorting the articles according to specific criteria such as size, weight, or quality. In addition, the device can be used for transferring, i.e., conveying the articles from one station to the next within the processing process, as well as for diverting, i.e., removing specific articles from the processing area, possibly after completion of a particular operation or step. In particular, the device according to the invention allows for the automatic or automated diverting of individual assembly sections or individual articles arranged on the assembly sections from the conveying process. In this way, the diverted assembly sections or articles can be...Items arranged on the conveyor sections are automatically or automatically transferred to other conveyor lines or processes. This maintains the positioning of the respective items on the conveyor sections and ensures the individualization of the items, especially poultry parts, so that they remain traceable.

[0020] A preferred embodiment is characterized in that at least one coupling device is arranged along the conveying path, which is configured to couple and / or decouple the conveying section and the assembly section. The coupling process can be initiated at least along a section of the conveying path of at least one holding element by means of the coupling device, by controlling the coupling unit to open or close the connection between the conveying section and the assembly section. The coupling device is designed, in particular, depending on the specific connection type of the coupling unit, so that interaction between the two components is possible. The coupling device can, for example, be a magnetic pulse, a mechanical engagement, an electrotechnical control, etc.This design allows for high flexibility in handling different items, as it enables quick coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section and the arrangement section. This leads to increased efficiency in operational processes, since the device can be quickly adapted to different production requirements, for example, by exchanging the appropriate conveying sections. Furthermore, the coupling device simplifies maintenance by providing easy access to and replacement of the individual components of the holding elements. This reduces maintenance costs and increases the overall economic efficiency of the device. In addition, the coupling device enhances safety during the conveying process by ensuring a reliable yet flexibly adjustable connection between the conveying section and the arrangement section.

[0021] An advantageous further development is characterized by the fact that, when the arrangement section is coupled to the conveying section, the coupled holding elements can be conveyed along the conveying path essentially at the conveying speed of the conveying device, and / or, when the arrangement section is decoupled from the conveying section, the arrangement section is essentially independent of the conveying speed of the conveying device, and the conveying section can be conveyed along the conveying path essentially at the conveying speed of the conveying device. By coupling the arrangement section to the conveying section, the coupled holding elements can be transported along the conveying path at the specified conveying speed of the conveying device. This ensures that the conveying process runs smoothly and continuously according to defined criteria.Simultaneously, the decoupling of the assembly section, which can be performed as needed, allows the respective decoupled assembly section to move independently of the conveying speed of the conveyor system. This makes it possible to handle specific or unforeseen processes more flexibly, enabling individual handling of the corresponding assembly sections and the items arranged on them. While the assembly section operates independently, the conveying section can continue to be conveyed along the conveyor line at the specified conveying speed of the conveyor system, thus enabling standardized processes and high mass throughput during conveying.

[0022] A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the coupling unit of the retaining elements and the at least one coupling device can be brought into operative connection with one another in such a way that, when the retaining elements are conveyed along the at least one coupling device, coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section and the arrangement section can be formed and set up. By conveying the retaining elements along the at least one coupling device, targeted coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section and the arrangement section can be achieved during the conveying of the retaining elements along the coupling device. This operative connection can be effected, in particular, by physical contact, electronic control, or electrotechnical control.In preferred embodiments, the arrangement section is first decoupled and then coupled to the conveying section, whereby processing of the articles to be conveyed can be carried out during the decoupling process, in particular detection and / or mechanical processing.

[0023] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the holding elements, in particular the conveying section and / or the arrangement section, comprise at least one release element for controlling the coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section and the arrangement section. The at least one release element enables precise control of the coupling unit or the coupling and / or decoupling process between the conveying section and the arrangement section of the corresponding holding element. The integration of the at least one release element provides a targeted control option for the coupling unit at a predetermined time within the conveying path, thereby further increasing the application of the device by enabling efficient and reliable handling of the holding elements along the conveying path at predetermined times or at predetermined positions within the device.

[0024] According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the at least one coupling device comprises at least one actuating element for controlling the coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section and the assembly section. The at least one actuating element enables precise control of the coupling unit or the coupling and / or decoupling process between the conveying section and the assembly section of the corresponding holding element. The integration of the at least one actuating element provides a targeted control option for the coupling unit at a predetermined time within the conveying path, thereby further increasing the application of the device by enabling efficient and reliable handling of the holding elements along the conveying path at predetermined times or at predetermined positions within the device.

[0025] A further advantageous embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the at least one release element and the at least one actuating element can be brought into operative connection with each other such that the coupling unit of the holding elements forms and establishes the coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section and the arrangement section. This embodiment enables precise control of the coupling and decoupling between the conveying section and the arrangement section. This allows for precise handling of the articles along the conveying path at predetermined times or positions. Furthermore, the direct relationship between the at least one release element and the at least one actuating element increases the reliability and safety of the coupling process. This minimizes potential malfunctions and optimizes operational processes.The functional connection between the at least one release element and the at least one actuating element prevents faulty activations, thus preventing unintentional coupling and / or decoupling. Preferably, the at least one release element and the at least one actuating element are designed and configured to correspond to each other.

[0026] A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the at least one actuating element is designed, at least partially, as a cam track and is configured to control the coupling and / or decoupling of the coupling unit. Due to the specific design of the at least one actuating element as a cam track, the coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section and the assembly section can be controlled precisely and reliably. This design enables smooth movement of the coupling unit along the cam track, resulting in reliable and stable handling of the articles during the respective coupling and / or decoupling process.The cam track, at least in sections, allows coupling and / or decoupling to be adapted to the prevailing requirements during specific phases of the conveying process, thus ensuring high flexibility and adaptability to different operating conditions or intended processing operations. In a further preferred embodiment, the corresponding actuating element is servo-controlled, in particular by means of a servo drive, to design and configure the corresponding change of the release element at least between the open position and the locked position and / or at least between the locked position and the open position. The cam track can be replicated as required by the servo control. This provides demand-oriented and flexible control of the coupling and / or decoupling of the coupling unit.

[0027] A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the coupling unit comprises a locking element that is changeable between at least one locked position and one open position, wherein in the open position of the locking element a relative change in position between the conveying section and the arrangement section can be controlled for forming and setting up coupling and / or decoupling, and wherein in the locked position the conveying section and the arrangement section are designed and set up to be positionally secured relative to each other. The locking element provides a secure and simultaneously positive-locking means of locking the coupling unit by allowing switching back and forth between a locked position and an open position.In the open position of the locking element, a relative change in position between the conveying section and the assembly section is possible to enable coupling and / or uncoupling. In the locked position, however, the conveying section and the assembly section are secured relative to each other. This design allows for precise securing and control of the coupling process and ensures the safe conveying of the holding elements along the conveyor path. The ability to switch between the locked and open positions further increases the flexibility and adaptability of the device to different operating conditions and prevents the assembly section from unintentionally detaching from the conveying section.

[0028] An advantageous further development is characterized by the fact that the locking element, by means of the release element and / or the actuating element, is configured to create at least a change between the open position and the locked position. In this way, a reliable and controlled change from the open position to the locked position, or vice versa, is achievable both via the individual holding elements and independently along the conveyor line. This design allows for flexible handling of the coupling unit and enables demand-oriented and location-specific segmentation of the holding elements.The ability to open or close the locking position allows for efficient control of coupling and / or decoupling, resulting in improved performance and functionality of the entire device. The individual, targeted, and easy modifiability of the locking element increases the versatility and adaptability of the device to different requirements and workflows.

[0029] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, a decoupling and subsequent coupling between at least one conveying section and at least one assembly section is designed and configured for conveying articles for the food processing industry along the at least one coupling device. An advantage of this decoupling and subsequent coupling lies in the resulting flexibility and versatility of the invention. Since individual sections can be decoupled independently of one another, it is possible, particularly on the assembly sections, to carry out cleaning, maintenance, or repairs without having to interrupt the entire production process.

[0030] This leads to a significant reduction in downtime and contributes to extending the service life of the entire device. A further advantage is that the food processing items conveyed on the assembly section can be processed during the decoupling process and immediately re-coupled after processing. This processing, particularly the use of a detection unit, can be performed independently of the device's conveying speed. This allows for more precise and flexible processing of the items without having to reduce the speed of the entire conveying system.

[0031] A preferred embodiment is characterized in that at least one reject unit is provided in the area of ​​the at least one coupling device, which is designed and configured to reject decoupled assembly sections from the conveyor line. This preferred embodiment enables the targeted rejection of decoupled assembly sections from the conveyor line, thereby ensuring uninterrupted conveying of the remaining holding elements. This allows for quick and easy adaptation of the production process to changing requirements and thus ensures optimized utilization of the device. A further advantage lies in the improved handling and quality control of the conveyed items.The ability to divert specific conveyor sections allows for the targeted inspection, processing, or rejection of specific, defective, or unwanted items without affecting the overall production flow. This leads to higher product quality and reduces scrap. Furthermore, this design contributes to the ease of maintenance of the entire system. Because decoupled conveyor sections can be removed from the conveyor, maintenance or repairs can be carried out on these sections without interrupting the entire operation. This minimizes downtime and increases the service life of the conveyor system. Additionally, the targeted diversion and, if necessary, re-entry of conveyor sections enables improved control of the product flow, thus avoiding bottlenecks and allowing for a response to current conditions.In a further preferred embodiment, the device further comprises at least one buffer unit, which is designed and configured for temporarily storing and / or later reintroducing or coupling decoupled assembly sections into the conveyor line. In this way, it is possible to temporarily store assembly sections in order to process or convey them at a later time or on separate devices.

[0032] An advantageous further development is characterized by the inclusion of at least one infeed unit within the area of ​​the at least one coupling device. This infeed unit is designed and configured for feeding and coupling a conveyor section to a conveying section for conveying along the conveyor line. This advantageous further development enables the targeted feeding and coupling of conveyor sections to a conveying section along the conveyor line. In this way, it is possible, for example, to refeed previously discharged food processing items to the device, such as after inspection, sorting, or processing, or to generally couple free conveying sections along the conveyor line with food processing items arranged on conveyor sections.

[0033] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, at least one processing unit is provided in the area of ​​the at least one coupling device. This processing unit is designed and configured for processing articles for the food processing industry, in particular a scanning unit for imaging the articles or parts thereof. The infeed unit allows assembly sections to be selectively and efficiently fed into the existing conveyor line and coupled to it. This facilitates the adaptation of the production process to different requirements and ensures seamless integration of the articles arranged on them. Furthermore, articles arranged on assembly sections can be automatically fed in without the need for manual manipulation. This leads to an increase in production speed and an overall more efficient use of capacity.Furthermore, this design contributes to the flexibility and scalability of the production system. By selectively inserting assembly sections, production lines can be quickly expanded or reconfigured as needed, without requiring extensive retooling.

[0034] A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the retaining elements, in particular the conveying section and / or the arrangement section, comprise at least one specific identification feature. Preferably, only the arrangement section has at least one specific identification feature. The origin of the at least one specific identification feature of the retaining elements, in particular the conveying section and / or the arrangement section, can be "natural," that is, occur due to the manufacturing process, or be actively applied or introduced. The at least one specific identification feature allows for individual assignment and identifiability or traceability of the corresponding retaining element, in particular the conveying section and / or the arrangement section.In this way, the respective assembly sections and, in particular, the food processing items arranged on them can be identified and traced throughout the entire system / device. Furthermore, this allows individual operations or conveying processes to be carried out on predetermined items depending on the items arranged on them. This provides improved quality control and enables targeted processing of the holding elements and / or the corresponding items.

[0035] An advantageous further development is characterized by the fact that at least one specific identification feature is designed and implemented for at least partial identification of the respective holding element, in particular the conveying section and / or the arrangement section. Thus, during identification, it is possible to determine which holding element, especially which arrangement section, is involved, thereby enabling a direct assignment of the article arranged on it. Such arrangement sections or articles can thus be handled individually and identified at desired or predetermined locations.

[0036] Preferably, the device according to the invention further comprises at least one identification unit arranged along the conveying path, wherein the identification unit is designed and configured to identify the specific identification features. Particularly preferably, the device comprises a plurality of corresponding identification units, each of which is configured to identify the specific identification features. "Specific identification features" generally include any features of the corresponding holding element, in particular the conveying section and / or the arrangement section, that enable identification by the at least one identification unit.A specific identification feature can be, for example, an optically detectable feature such as an indentation, a bulge, a thickening, a discoloration, a cutout, a graphic design (code, in particular a QR code or a barcode), a dot, etc. Alternatively or additionally, the specific identification features can include electrical or electronic components to provide or support identification / detection in connection with the article for the food processing industry. The specific identification features can include, in particular, magnetic coils, RFID chips, mechanical detection features, etc. Preferably, the specific identification features can be designed and configured so that they can be scanned tactilely / magnetically.Preferably, at least one identification unit is designed and configured accordingly to identify and / or detect the specific identification features and / or the articles.

[0037] In principle, any identification unit that enables the identification / detection of identification features can be used as an "identification unit." Examples of such units include cameras, sensors (especially infrared sensors), X-ray devices, light barriers, etc. Preferably, the identification unit can be designed and configured to identify magnetic coils, RFID chips, and / or mechanical components, or to provide tactile, magnetic, and / or height detection. The device comprises, in particular, a plurality of identification units to enable the identification of the holding elements or the articles at different locations within the device, especially along the conveyor path.The at least one identification unit preferably comprises at least one transmission light barrier, at least one reflection light barrier, and / or at least one inductive or capacitive sensor. The at least one identification unit is preferably fixed in the area of ​​the conveyor system. More preferably, at least one identification unit is located upstream and / or downstream of one of the processing units in order to identify the specific identification characteristics.

[0038] A preferred embodiment is characterized in that at least one of the identified holding elements, in particular the conveying section and / or the arrangement section, and / or the food processing article arranged thereon, is provided with a processing mechanism that takes into account at least one specific identification feature. In this way, the corresponding holding element, conveying section, arrangement section, and / or article can be individually and specifically processed, taking into account the previous conveying or processing operation. Holding elements, conveying sections, or arrangement sections can, for example, be automatically removed after certain time intervals, fed in for maintenance, provided for cleaning, or replaced.Furthermore, articles from the food processing industry arranged on the arrangement sections can be processed depending on linked information with the specific identification feature, for example depending on a recorded size, anatomy or other anatomical or qualitative properties of the articles.

[0039] The device preferably further comprises at least one computing unit and / or at least one storage unit for comparing and storing the specific identification features identified by means of the at least one identification unit and / or for controlling the conveying of the assembly sections along the conveying path based on the information contained in the specific identification features. The at least one computing unit and / or the at least one control unit provides a means of, for example, coordinating the calculation and / or control operations performed when determining the conveying of the articles within the device, when determining the expected conveying paths, and when identifying the specific identification features or the articles of the food processing industry with the processing by the at least one processing unit.Furthermore, the at least one processing unit is preferably controlled by means of at least one computer unit and / or at least one control unit. Preferably, the device comprises a central computer unit and / or control unit that performs and configures the calculation and / or control of the individual device components. In a further preferred embodiment, at least one computer unit and / or at least one control unit can be arranged in or connected to at least one of the identification units or in at least one of the processing units.

[0040] Furthermore, the task is solved by the aforementioned method, comprising the following steps: providing a plurality of food processing industry articles, in particular poultry hanging by its legs or poultry legs; conveying the food processing industry articles along a conveying path in a transport direction at a conveying speed by means of a conveying device with a plurality of holding elements, each designed to receive at least one food processing industry article, wherein the holding elements comprise a conveying section engaged with the conveying device and an arrangement section designed and equipped for arranging the articles, wherein the holding elements each further comprise at least one coupling unit.The coupling unit, which is designed and configured for detachable coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section and the arrangement section, controls the coupling and / or decoupling of the holding elements by means of the coupling unit during the conveying of the holding elements along the conveying path in the transport direction, wherein at least one of the holding elements is coupled and / or decoupled in at least one section of the conveying path between the conveying section and the arrangement section. The method according to the invention increases the flexibility in conveying articles for the food processing industry.

[0041] The ability to selectively decouple and / or couple the assembly sections and the articles arranged on them allows for quick and efficient adjustments to different production requirements or conditions. This facilitates, for example, the arrangement of new articles or the switchover to different article batches, leading to a significant reduction in downtime. A further advantage is the increased efficiency of the inventive method. Since articles can be processed or detected independently of the conveyor speed, the production process is optimized. This results in higher throughput and an overall more efficient use of production capacities. Furthermore, the accuracy of article processing is increased, leading to improved product quality. The method also offers enhanced safety in the production process.In the event of malfunctions or problems, the affected sections can be quickly isolated and repaired without disrupting the operation of the rest of the conveyor system. This reduces the risk of production downtime and increases overall operational reliability, which in turn improves the reliability and stability of the entire production process. The ease of maintenance of the conveyor system is also significantly enhanced. Individual product-contacting assembly sections can be decoupled and serviced without interrupting the entire production process. This minimizes downtime and enables continuous operation.

[0042] To avoid repetition, reference is made in connection with the method according to the invention to the advantages already described in detail in connection with the device according to the invention. These also apply analogously to the method according to the invention described above.

[0043] According to a further preferred embodiment, the coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section and the arrangement section is designed and set up by means of at least one coupling device arranged along the conveying path.

[0044] A further advantageous embodiment of the invention is characterized in that, when the arrangement section is coupled with the conveying section, the coupled holding elements are conveyed along the conveying path essentially at the conveying speed of the conveying device and / or that, when the arrangement section is decoupled from the conveying section, the arrangement section is essentially independent of the conveying speed of the conveying device and the conveying section is conveyed along the conveying path essentially at the conveying speed of the conveying device.

[0045] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the coupling unit and the at least one coupling device are brought into operative connection in such a way that, when the holding elements are conveyed along the at least one coupling device, a coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section and the arrangement section is formed and established.

[0046] An advantageous further development of the invention is characterized in that the coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section and the arrangement section is controlled by means of at least one release element of the holding elements, in particular of the conveying section and / or the arrangement section.

[0047] Another advantageous embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section and the arrangement section is controlled by means of at least one actuating element of the coupling device.

[0048] An advantageous further development is characterized in that the at least one triggering element and the at least one actuating element are brought into operative connection with each other in such a way that the conveying section and the arrangement section are coupled and / or decoupled with each other.

[0049] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the coupling unit comprises a locking element that is variable at least between a locking position and an open position, wherein in the open position of the locking element a relative change in position between the conveying section and the arrangement section is controlled for forming and setting up the coupling and / or decoupling, and wherein in the locking position the conveying section and the arrangement section are formed and set up in a positionally secured relative to each other.

[0050] A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the locking element is switched at least between the open position and the locking position and / or at least between the locking position and the open position by means of the release element and / or by means of the actuating element.

[0051] According to a further preferred embodiment, when conveying articles of the food processing industry along the at least one coupling device, a decoupling and subsequent coupling between at least one conveying section and at least one arrangement section is formed and set up.

[0052] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, decoupled arrangement sections in the area of ​​the at least one coupling device are removed from the conveying line by means of at least one ejection unit.

[0053] Another advantageous embodiment of the invention is characterized in that arrangement sections in the area of ​​the at least one coupling device are introduced by means of at least one insertion unit for coupling with a conveying section and for conveying along the conveying route.

[0054] An advantageous further development of the invention is characterized in that the articles of the food processing industry are processed in the area of ​​the at least one coupling device by means of at least one processing unit, in particular that the articles are imaged by means of at least one detection unit.

[0055] A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that at least one of the retaining elements, in particular the conveying section and / or the arrangement section, comprises at least one specific identification feature, wherein the respective retaining element, in particular the conveying section and / or the arrangement section, is identified along the conveying path.

[0056] Another preferred embodiment is characterized in that at least one of the identified holding elements, in particular the conveying section and / or the arrangement section, and / or an article of the food processing industry arranged thereon, is processed taking into account the at least one specific identification feature.

[0057] Preferably, the specific identification features identified by means of the at least one identification unit are compared with each other and / or stored in order to control the conveying and / or processing of the holding elements, in particular the conveying section and / or the arrangement section, and / or an article of the food processing industry arranged thereon, based on the information contained in the specific identification features along the conveying path.

[0058] Further advantages arising from the process steps have already been described in connection with the device, therefore reference is made to the relevant passages to avoid repetition.

[0059] Further advantageous features and developments, as well as preferred embodiments of the invention, will become apparent from the dependent claims and the description. Particularly preferred embodiments of the device and method according to the invention are explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings show:

[0060] Fig. 1 is a schematic representation of one embodiment of the device according to the invention in perspective view, Fig. 2 is a schematic representation of another embodiment of the device according to the invention in perspective view,

[0061] Fig. 3 shows another side view of the embodiment of the device according to the invention shown in Fig. 2.

[0062] Fig. 4 shows a further schematic representation of a device according to the invention in a perspective view,

[0063] Fig. 5a shows a schematic representation of a holding element of the device according to the invention in a first position,

[0064] Fig. 5b shows a schematic representation of a holding element according to Fig. 5a of the device according to the invention in a second position,

[0065] Fig. 6 shows a schematic representation of individual arrangement sections decoupled from holding elements, with corresponding articles from the food processing industry in a perspective view and

[0066] Fig. 7 shows a schematic flowchart of an arrangement incorporating the method or device according to the invention.

[0067] The device and method according to the invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the aforementioned figures.

[0068] The device 10 shown in the figures is designed and configured for conveying articles 11 of the food processing industry, in particular poultry hanging by its legs or poultry legs 11. The articles 11 to be conveyed are shown in the figures as examples of poultry legs 11. In the present embodiments, the poultry legs 11 have a first bone section and a second bone section connected by a joint, as well as an intermediate joint arranged between the first and second bone sections. Figures 1 to 3 show the poultry legs 11 in the state separated from the carcass, with the bone sections and the corresponding meat components not shown in detail. The simplified poultry legs 11 shown in the figures are poultry legs.

[0069] 11 of chickens. However, the specific articles 11 of the food processing industry, in particular the specific species of poultry legs 11, are not relevant to the invention, and different articles 11 of the food processing industry, for example different carcasses or parts of carcasses, can also be conveyed with the device 10 according to the invention, whereby the dimensions, distances, and speeds of the device 10 may need to be adapted to the respective articles 11 of the food processing industry.

[0070] Figures 1 to 4 schematically show embodiments of a device 10 according to the invention, comprising a conveying device 12 arranged for conveying the articles 11 along a conveying path 13 in a transport direction 14 at a conveying speed and comprising a plurality of holding elements 15 arranged for receiving the articles 11. In the devices 10 shown with reference to Figures 1 to 4, only a section of the conveying path 13 of the conveying device is shown by way of example.

[0071] Figure 12 shows the following. Furthermore, only a few holding elements 15 are shown, whereas in normal operation, a plurality of holding elements 15 can be conveyed along the conveying path 13 in the transport direction 14. Figures 5a and 5b each show an exemplary holding element 15 in detail. The holding elements 15 comprise a conveying section 16 engaged with the conveying device 12 and an arrangement section 17 designed and equipped for arranging the articles 11. The arrangement section 17 is preferably designed in a hook shape, as illustrated in Figures 5a and 5b, to suspend the articles 11 for the food processing industry, in particular poultry legs 11. The holding elements 15 each further comprise at least one coupling unit 18, which is designed and equipped for releasable coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section 16 and the arrangement section 17.The coupling unit 18 is designed and configured to be controllable during the conveying of the holding elements 15 along the conveying path 13 in the transport direction 14 such that coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section 16 and the arrangement section 17 can be formed and set up at least in one segment of the conveying path 13. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, when the arrangement section 17 is coupled to the conveying section 16, the coupled holding elements 15 can be conveyed along the conveying path 13 essentially at the conveying speed of the conveying device 12. More preferably, when the arrangement section 17 is decoupled from the conveying section 16, the arrangement section 17 can be conveyed along the conveying path 13 essentially independently of the conveying speed of the conveying device 12, and the conveying section 16 can be conveyed along the conveying path 13 essentially at the conveying speed of the conveying device 12. As shown, among others, in the figures.As can be seen from Figure 1 and Figure 2, the device 10 according to the invention provides for at least a section-by-section conveying of the holding elements 15, in which the conveying section 16 can be conveyed independently of the arrangement section 17 and independently of the conveying speed of the conveying device 12, by decoupling the respective arrangement section 17 from the conveying section 16 in a region of the conveying path 13. Preferably, an article 11 arranged on the arrangement section 17 and / or the arrangement section 17 in general can be machined by means of further device components or devices – not shown in detail in the figures. Preferably, the arrangement section 17 or an article 11 arranged thereon can be conveyed and / or machined independently of the conveying path 13 of the conveying device 12.

[0072] Preferably, at least one coupling device 36 is arranged along the conveying section 13, which is configured to form a coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section 16 and the arrangement section 17. More preferably, the coupling unit 18 of the retaining elements 15 and the at least one coupling device 36 can be brought into operative connection with each other such that, when the retaining elements 15 are conveyed along the at least one coupling device 36, a coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section 16 and the arrangement section 17 can be formed and set up. The devices 10 according to the invention are shown in Figures 1 to 2.Figure 4 shows a coupling device 36 extending substantially in the transport direction 14, which can be engaged at least partially with the at least one coupling unit 18 to form and establish coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section 16 and the arrangement section 17. In a further preferred embodiment, the retaining elements 15, in particular the conveying section 16 and / or the arrangement section 17, comprise at least one release element 29 to control the coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section 16 and the arrangement section 17.

[0073] An advantageous embodiment is characterized in that the at least one coupling device 36 comprises at least one actuating element 30 for controlling the coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section 16 and the arrangement section 17. Preferably, the at least one release element 29 and the at least one actuating element 30 can be brought into operative connection with each other such that the coupling unit 18 of the retaining elements 15 forms and establishes the coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section 16 and the arrangement section 17. More preferably, the at least one actuating element is designed at least partially as a cam track and configured for controlling the coupling and / or decoupling of the coupling unit. As shown in Figures 1 to 2.As shown in Figure 4, the at least one actuating element 30 is designed, at least in sections, as a curved track and is configured to control the coupling and / or decoupling of the coupling unit 18. As the holding elements 15 pass through the coupling device 36, the at least one actuating element 30 provides positive guidance for the at least one release element 30, resulting in a corresponding coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section 16 and the arrangement section 17.

[0074] In a preferred embodiment, the coupling unit 18 comprises a locking element 19 that is variable between at least a locking position 20 and an open position 21, wherein in the open position 21 of the locking element 19 a relative change in position between the conveying section 16 and the arrangement section 17 can be controlled for forming and enabling coupling and / or decoupling, and wherein in the locking position 19 the conveying section 16 and the arrangement section 17 are formed and configured to be positionally secured relative to each other. In a further preferred embodiment, decoupling and subsequent coupling between at least one conveying section 16 and at least one arrangement section 17 is formed and configured during the conveying of articles 11 for the food processing industry along the at least one coupling device 36.Preferably, the locking element 20 is configured by means of the release element 29 and / or the actuating element 30 to form at least a change between the open position 21 and the locked position 20 and / or at least a change between the locked position 20 and the open position 21. In Fig. 5a and Fig. 5b, the locking element 19 of the retaining element 15 is positioned in the open position 21. In Fig. 1, the locking element 19 is in the locked position 20 for the outer retaining elements 15 and in the open position 21 for the middle retaining element 15.

[0075] The locking element 19 is designed to release the assembly section 17 of the retaining element 15 from the conveying section 16. In a preferred embodiment, the conveying section 16 comprises at least one receiving element 22, and the assembly section 17 comprises at least one support element 23 designed for arrangement in or on the receiving element 22. The receiving element 22 preferably has at least one partial recess 33 into which or from which the at least one support element 23 can be positioned. In an alternative embodiment, the at least one receiving element 22 and the at least one support element 23 can also be configured in reverse, such that the assembly section 17 comprises the at least one receiving element 22, and the conveying section 16 comprises the at least one support element 23.

[0076] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the conveying device 12 and / or the holding element 15, in particular the conveying section 16 of the holding element 15, comprises at least one rotating element 24 for rotating the holding element 15 or the conveying section 16 at least partially about the longitudinal axis of the holding element 15. In Figures 5a and 5b, the holding element 15 has a rotating element 24 which is designed in the form of a toothed ring 25 configured to interact with a corresponding counterpart. As shown in detail in Figures 1 to 3, the conveying device 12 also preferably has a rotating element 24 which is designed as at least one rack 26 configured to interact with the rotating element of the holding element 15, the toothed ring 25. When the rack 26 and toothed ring 25 interact, at least partial rotation of the holding element 15 or the conveying section 16 about the longitudinal axis of the holding element 15 is achieved.The conveying section 16 can be configured around the longitudinal axis of the holding element 15. This allows, in particular, the relative position of the receiving element 22 with respect to the transport direction 14 to be changed, as shown in Fig. 5a and Fig. 5b. Depending on the configuration of the receiving element 22 and the support element 23 relative to each other, a relative change in position between the conveying section 16 and the arrangement section 17 can be set relative to each other during conveying, so that the receiving element 22 either carries or releases the support element 23 accordingly.

[0077] In the embodiments according to the invention, shown inter alia in Figs. 5a and 5, the release element 29 is a partial section of the conveying section 16, in particular of the locking element 19, which is provided to form a movement along the longitudinal axis of the holding element 15. With a corresponding movement along the longitudinal axis, a release or locking action can be formed between the receiving element 22 and the support element 23.

[0078] Another preferred embodiment of the invention – not shown in detail in the figures – is characterized in that at least one discharge unit (not shown) is provided in the area of ​​the at least one coupling device 36, which is designed and configured for diverting decoupled assembly sections 17 from the conveying path 13. Another preferred embodiment of the invention – also not shown in detail in the figures – is characterized in that at least one inlet unit is provided in the area of ​​the at least one coupling device 36, which is designed and configured for diverting and coupling an assembly section 17 to a conveying section 16 for conveying along the conveying path 13. Figures 1 to 3 are shown.Figure 4 shows the process of decoupling and coupling arrangement sections 17 and conveying sections 16, whereby the arrangement sections 17 can be decoupled from and recoupled to the conveying section 13. With the discharge unit, however, discharged arrangement sections 17 can initially be decoupled from the respective conveying section 16 and cannot, or at least not directly, be recoupled to the conveying section 16 on the conveying section 13. With the infeed unit, however, previously discharged or newly infeeded arrangement sections 17 can be coupled to the conveying section 16 on the conveying section 13.

[0079] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, at least one processing unit 27 is provided in the area of ​​the at least one coupling device 36, which is designed and configured for processing the articles 11 of the food processing industry, in particular a detection unit 28 for imaging the articles 11 or parts thereof. In the preferred embodiment of the Fig.

[0080] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the device 10 comprises a processing unit 27, which is designed and configured as a detection unit 27 arranged along the conveyor path 13 in the area of ​​the at least one coupling device 36. The detection unit 27 is designed and configured at least for detecting and / or determining the position of the first bone part, the second bone part, and / or the intermediate joint (not shown in detail in the figures). As shown in Figures 2 and 3,

[0081] As shown in Figure 3, the respective detection units 27 in the device 10 according to the invention are arranged essentially below the conveying device 12 in order to pick up the articles 11, in particular the poultry legs, which are held on the retaining elements 15.

[0082] 11. For this purpose, the detection unit 27 is preferably positioned such that it detects the poultry legs 11 from at least one side, thereby allowing the position of the first bone segment, the second bone segment, and / or the intermediate joint to be determined accordingly. To detect / determine the poultry legs 11, they are conveyed by the detection unit 27, suspended from the holding elements 15, in the transport direction 14 along the conveyor path 13.

[0083] Preferably, the retaining elements 15, in particular the conveying section 16 and / or the arrangement section 17, comprise at least one specific identification feature (not shown in detail in the figures). This at least one specific identification feature is designed and configured to identify, at least partially, the respective retaining element 15, in particular the conveying section 16 and / or the arrangement section 17. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the device 10 further comprises at least one identification unit (not shown in detail in the figures) arranged along the conveying path 13, wherein the identification unit is designed and configured to identify the specific identification features.It is further preferred that at least one of the identified holding elements 15, in particular the conveying section 16 and / or the arrangement section 17, and / or the article 11 of the food processing industry arranged thereon, is provided with a processing device taking into account the at least one specific identification feature.

[0084] In further embodiments – not shown in detail in the figures – the device 10 comprises at least one computer unit and / or at least one control unit, wherein the at least one computer unit and / or the at least one control unit is provided for controlling the coupling and / or decoupling, in particular the insertion and / or removal of assembly sections 17 onto the conveyor line 13. More preferably, the device 10 comprises at least one computer unit and / or at least one storage unit for comparing and storing the specific identification features identified by means of the at least one identification unit and / or for controlling the conveying of the assembly sections 17 along the conveyor line 13 based on the information contained in the specific identification features.

[0085] An advantageous embodiment is characterized in that the device 10 further comprises at least one fixing device 31, wherein the at least one fixing device 31 is designed and configured to fix the holding element 15 and / or the article 11 in a predetermined position during capture by the at least one capture unit 27. Preferably, the at least one fixing device 31 comprises at least two at least cylindrical and / or disc-shaped fixing elements 32, wherein the holding element 15 and / or the poultry leg 11 can be arranged at least partially between the fixing elements 32 in the predetermined position. In Figures 1 to 4, the fixing device 31 is shown with two disc-shaped fixing elements 32 in each case, wherein the fixing device 32 or the fixing elements 32 can be designed differently depending on the articles 11 to be conveyed. As can be seen from Figures 1 to 4,As shown in Figure 3, a poultry leg 11 is fixed between the two disc-shaped fixing elements 32. Preferably, at least one of the fixing elements 32, and in particular both fixing elements 32, has at least one recess 34 for engaging with at least one section of the retaining element 15 and / or the poultry leg 11. The recess 34 is advantageously selectable such that different sizes of the retaining elements 15 and / or poultry legs 11 can be arranged or fixed therein. More preferably, the fixing device 31 further comprises at least one locking element 35 arranged within the recess 34, wherein a locking mechanism for the retaining elements 15 and / or the articles 11 is designed and configured. Figures 1 and 4 each show the fixing elements 33 with four recesses 34, each recess 34 having at least one locking element 35.Preferably, the fixing elements 33 are each rotatable about an axis of rotation, in particular relative to each other, wherein at least partial rotation causes the release or fixing of the holding elements 15 and / or the poultry legs 11. More preferably, the device 10, as shown in detail in Figures 1 to 4, comprises at least one transfer device 37 designed and configured for conveying / transferring the holding elements 15, in particular the arrangement sections 17, which have been decoupled from the conveying section 13. The transfer device 37 preferably comprises at least one transfer element 38, wherein the at least one transfer element 38 is designed and configured for engaging at least one section of the holding elements 15, in particular the arrangement sections 37, and / or the poultry legs 11, in order to convey the correspondingly conveyed poultry legs 11 further in the transport direction 14 independently of the conveying device 12. As shown in Figures 1 to 4,As shown in Figures 1 to 4, the transfer device 37 is essentially located in the area of ​​the coupling device 36 in order to subsequently transfer the captured poultry legs 11 back to the conveying device 12. In the present embodiments of the invention, the transfer device 37 comprises a plurality of transfer elements 38, which are rotatably arranged and configured by means of a drive for the continuous transfer of provided holding elements 15, in particular assembly sections 17. In the illustrated embodiments, the transfer elements 38 are designed and configured as a belt-shaped transfer element 38, wherein the individual transfer elements 38 are arranged along the circumference and are provided for the further guidance of the holding elements 15, in particular assembly sections 17, upon engagement.In further preferred embodiments – not shown in detail in the figures – the at least one transfer element 38 can be designed and configured, among other things, to form a pivotable or linear transfer of the holding elements 15.

[0086] The transfer device 37 is preferably synchronized with the conveying device 12 such that the respective decoupled holding elements 15, in particular the arrangement sections 17, can be coupled to free conveying sections 16. Preferably, the decoupled holding elements 15, in particular the arrangement sections 17, can be guided on at least one guide element 39 that extends further beyond the device 10, in particular the transfer device 37, especially in the area and / or after the area of ​​the detection unit 27. The at least one guide element 39 ensures directed and predetermined guidance of the decoupled holding elements 15, in particular the arrangement sections 17, in order to return them to the conveying path 13 of the conveying device 12 or to the conveying sections 16, or to couple them thereto. The at least one guide element 39 is preferably designed and configured substantially along the transport direction 14.It is further preferred that at least one guide element 39 be designed and set up in a rail-like manner, at least in sections.

[0087] The device 10 is preferably synchronized with the respective individual components separately and / or with all of the disclosed additional components in combination in such a way that a substantially continuous conveyance of the holding elements 15 and a concomitant detection and / or determination of the poultry legs 11 is designed and set up.

[0088] The inventive method for conveying articles 11 of the food processing industry, in particular poultry hanging by its legs or poultry legs 11, is described in more detail below only in selected aspects, since the process steps have essentially already been described in connection with the inventive device 10.

[0089] As shown in Figures 1 to 4, a plurality of food processing articles 11, in particular poultry hanging by its legs or poultry legs 11, are provided on a corresponding device 10. The food processing articles 11, in particular poultry hanging by its legs or poultry legs 11, are conveyed along a conveying path 13 in the transport direction 14 at a conveying speed by means of a conveying device 12, which comprises a plurality of holding elements 15, each designed to receive at least one food processing article 11, wherein the holding elements 15 comprise a conveying section 16 engaged with the conveying device 12 and an arrangement section 17 designed and equipped for arranging the articles 11.The retaining elements 15 each further comprise at least one coupling unit 18, which is designed and configured for releasable coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section 16 and the arrangement section 17. The method further comprises the step of controlling the coupling and / or decoupling of the retaining elements 15 by means of the coupling unit 18 during the conveying of the retaining elements 15 along the conveying path 13 in the transport direction 14, wherein at least one of the retaining elements 15 is coupled and / or decoupled in at least one section of the conveying path 13 between the conveying section 16 and the arrangement section 17. Figure 1 shows the decoupling process in detail by depicting a decoupled retaining element 15' or the arrangement section 17 independently of the remaining retaining element 15 or the conveying section 16.The assembly section 17 is thus essentially independent of the conveying speed, while the remaining holding elements 15 or the conveying sections 16 are conveyed further along the conveying path 13 in the transport direction 14 by the conveying device 12. Preferably, the holding elements 15 are conveyed along the conveying path 13 at a substantially continuous conveying speed.

[0090] Preferably, the coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section 16 and the arrangement section 17 is designed and configured by means of at least one coupling device 36 arranged along the conveying path 13. More preferably, when the arrangement section 17 is coupled to the conveying section 16, the coupled retaining elements 15 are conveyed along the conveying path 13 essentially at the conveying speed of the conveying device 12, and / or when the arrangement section 17 is decoupled from the conveying section 16, the arrangement section 17 is essentially independent of the conveying speed of the conveying device 12, and the conveying section 16 is conveyed along the conveying path 13 essentially at the conveying speed of the conveying device 12.Particularly preferably, the at least one coupling unit 18 and the at least one coupling device 36 are brought into operative connection such that, when the holding elements 15 are conveyed along the at least one coupling device 36, a coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section 16 and the arrangement section 17 is formed and established.

[0091] In a further preferred embodiment, the coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section 16 and the arrangement section 17 is controlled by means of at least one release element 29 of the retaining elements 15, in particular of the conveying section 16 and / or the arrangement section 17. Preferably, the coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section 16 and the arrangement section 17 is controlled by means of at least one actuating element 30 of the coupling device 36. Particularly preferably, the at least one release element 29 and the at least one actuating element 30 are brought into operative connection with each other such that the conveying section 16 and the arrangement section 17 are coupled and / or decoupled.In a preferred embodiment, the coupling unit 18 comprises a locking element 19 that is changeable between at least a locking position 20 and an open position 21, wherein in the open position 21 of the locking element 19 a relative change in position between the conveying section 16 and the arrangement section 17 is controlled for forming and enabling coupling and / or decoupling, and wherein in the locking position 20 the conveying section 16 and the arrangement section 17 are positioned and secured relative to each other. Preferably, the locking element 19 is switched at least between the open position 21 and the locking position 20 and / or at least between the locking position 20 and the open position 21 by means of the release element 29 and / or by means of the actuating element 30.Furthermore, when conveying articles 11 of the food processing industry along the at least one coupling device 36, decoupling and subsequent coupling between at least one conveying section 16 and at least one arrangement section 17 is preferably designed and set up.

[0092] In a particularly preferred embodiment, decoupled assembly sections 17 in the area of ​​the at least one coupling device 36 are diverted from the conveying section 13 by means of at least one diverting unit (not shown in detail in the figures). In a further embodiment, assembly sections 17 in the area of ​​the at least one coupling device 36 are diverted by means of at least one diverting unit (not shown in detail in the figures) for coupling with a conveying section 16 and for conveying along the conveying section 13.

[0093] In a further preferred embodiment, the articles 11 of the food processing industry are processed in the area of ​​the at least one coupling device 36 by means of at least one processing unit 27, the articles 11 are in particular captured by means of at least one scanning unit 28.

[0094] In a further preferred process step, at least one of the retaining elements 15, in particular the conveying section 16 and / or the arrangement section 17 along the conveying path 13, is identified by having at least one of the retaining elements 15, in particular the conveying section 16 and / or the arrangement section 17, comprise at least one specific identification feature. More preferably, at least one of the identified retaining elements 15, in particular the conveying section 16 and / or the arrangement section 17, and / or an article 11 of the food processing industry arranged thereon, is processed taking into account the at least one specific identification feature.Preferably, the specific identification features identified by means of the at least one identification unit are compared with each other and / or stored in order to control the conveying and / or processing of the holding elements 15, in particular the conveying section 16 and / or the arrangement section 17, and / or an article 11 of the food processing industry arranged thereon, on the basis of the information contained in the specific identification features along the conveying path.

[0095] Fig. 6 shows a section / partial view of a preferred embodiment of the device 10 according to the invention. Fig. 6 shows, by way of example, a plurality of arrangement sections 17 of the holding elements 15, on which corresponding articles 11 of the food processing industry or poultry legs 11 are arranged. Such a configuration is provided in particular in a plant for processing articles 11 of the food processing industry, especially poultry legs 11, whereby the corresponding articles 11 can, for example, be temporarily stored or buffered. A corresponding embodiment of the section shown in Fig. 6 can also be used without articles 11 arranged on the arrangement sections 17, for example, to generally temporarily store, clean, or maintain the arrangement sections 17. In Fig.Figure 6 shows an arrangement section 17 with an article 11, which is transferred to the guide elements 39, at the left edge of the figure. A coupling device 36 is preferably arranged upstream for the transfer. A coupling device 36 is also preferably arranged downstream to provide, for example, a return of the articles 11 or a transfer of the articles to another system or another device component. The section of the preferred embodiment of the device 10 shown in Figure 6 can be designed and configured in various ways and in different areas to perform processing on the corresponding articles 11, such as a visual or qualitative assessment, mechanical processing, or the like, in addition to the aforementioned intermediate storage.

[0096] Figure 7 schematically illustrates an arrangement with a device 10 according to the invention and the method according to the invention. Figure 7 shows possible conveying paths of the articles 11 or the arrangement sections 15 by means of the schematic arrow movements within the arrangement. Four lines (line 1 to line 4) are shown by way of example, each intended for processing the articles 11.

[0097] Figure 7 illustrates that, by means of the device 10 according to the invention or by means of the method according to the invention, the articles 11 can be conveyed between different lines of a system for the respective processing of the articles. For this purpose, the articles 11 arranged on the assembly sections 17 can be decoupled or coupled accordingly between the respective infeed and outfeed units of the different lines. A coupling device for the corresponding decoupling or coupling is provided at each respective infeed and outfeed unit. The processing units are preferably designed according to the intended processing and can include, among other things, detection, singulation, cutting, intermediate storage, evaluation, etc. In Figure 7, line 1 represents the main line on which the respective articles 11 are provided.Line 2 depicts a bypass, for example, to provide intermediate storage, which is generally synonymous with the term processing unit, or to perform other specific processing on the articles 11. Lines 3 and 4 can, for example, be configured for processing articles 11 of different sizes or for carrying out individual processing steps on separate lines. Overall, the layout of such arrangements is freely selectable and adaptable to the desired processing of the articles 11. However, the device and method according to the invention ensure, overall, flexible and positionally stable conveying of the articles 11 for the food processing industry, particularly poultry legs, by means of the arrangement sections 17.

Claims

- 38 - 1. Device (10) for conveying articles (11) of the food processing industry, in particular poultry hanging by its legs or poultry legs (11), comprising a conveying device arranged for conveying the articles (11) along a conveying path (13) in a transport direction (14) at a conveying speed (12) with a plurality of holding elements (15) designed to receive the articles (11), wherein the holding elements (15) comprise a conveying section (16) engaged with the conveying device (12) and an arrangement section (17) designed and equipped for arranging the articles (11), wherein the holding elements (15) each further comprise at least one coupling unit (18) designed and equipped for releasable coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section (16) and the arrangement section (17), wherein the coupling unit (18) is designed and equipped to be controllable during the conveying of the holding elements (15) along the conveying path (13) in the transport direction (14) such that at least in one segment of the conveying path (13) coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section (16) and the arrangement section (17) is possible and can be set up.

2. Device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that at least one coupling device (36) is arranged along the conveying section (13), which is designed to form the coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section (16) and the arrangement section (17).

3. Device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that when the arrangement section (17) is coupled with the conveying section (16), the coupled retaining elements (15) can be conveyed substantially at the conveying speed of the conveying device (12) along the conveying path (13) and / or wherein when the arrangement section (17) is decoupled from the conveying section (16), the arrangement section (17) is substantially independent of the conveying speed of the conveying device (12) and the conveying section (16) can be conveyed substantially at the conveying speed of the conveying device (12) along the conveying path (13). - 39 - 4. Device (10) according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the coupling unit (18) of the retaining elements (15) and the at least one coupling device (36) can be brought into operative connection with each other in such a way that, when the retaining elements (15) are conveyed along the at least one coupling device (36), coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section (16) and the arrangement section (17) can be formed and set up.

5. Device (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the holding elements (15), in particular the conveying section (16) and / or the arrangement section (17), comprise at least one release element (29) to control the coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section (16) and the arrangement section (17).

6. Device (10) according to one or more of claims 2 to 5, characterized in that the at least one coupling device (36) comprises at least one actuating element (30) for controlling the coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section (16) and the arrangement section (17).

7. Device (10) according to claim 6, characterized in that the at least one release element (29) and the at least one actuating element (30) can be brought into operative connection with each other in such a way that the coupling unit (18) of the retaining elements forms and establishes the coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section (16) and the arrangement section (17).

8. Device (10) according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that the at least one actuating element (30) is designed at least sectionally as a curved track and is configured for controlling the coupling and / or decoupling of the coupling unit (18).

9. Device (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the coupling unit (18) comprises a locking element (19) that is changeable at least between a locking position (20) and an open position (21), wherein in the open position (21) of the locking element (19) a relative change in position occurs between the - 40 - The conveying section (16) and the arrangement section (17) are controllable for the formation and setup of coupling and / or decoupling, and in the locking position (20) the conveying section (16) and the arrangement section (17) are formed and set up in a position-secure manner relative to each other.

10. Device (10) according to claim 9, characterized in that the locking element (19) is configured by means of the release element (29) and / or by means of the actuating element (30) at least to form a change between the open position (21) and the locking position (20) and / or at least to form a change between the locking position (20) and the open position (21).

11. Device (10) according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that a decoupling and subsequent coupling between at least one conveying section (16) and at least one arrangement section (17) is designed and arranged when conveying articles (11) of the food processing industry along the at least one coupling device (36).

12. Device (10) according to one or more of claims 2 to 11, characterized in that at least one ejection unit is provided in the area of ​​the at least one coupling device (36), which is designed and equipped for ejecting decoupled arrangement sections (17) from the conveying line (13).

13. Device (10) according to one or more of claims 2 to 12, characterized in that at least one inlet unit is provided in the area of ​​the at least one coupling device (36), which is designed and equipped for inleting and coupling from an arrangement section (17) to a conveying section (16) for conveying along the conveying path (13).

14. Device (10) according to one or more of claims 2 to 13, characterized in that at least one processing unit (27) is provided in the area of ​​the at least one coupling device (36), which is designed and equipped for processing the articles (11) of the food processing industry, in particular a detection unit (28) for imaging the articles (11) or parts thereof.

15. Device (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the retaining elements (15), in particular the conveying section (16) and / or the order section (17), shall include at least one specific identification feature.

16. Device (10) according to claim 15, characterized in that the at least one specific identification feature is designed and configured for at least partial identification of the respective holding element (15), in particular the conveying section (16) and / or the arrangement section (17).

17. Device (10) according to claim 15 or 16, further comprising at least one identification unit arranged along the conveyor path (13), wherein the identification unit is designed and configured to identify the specific identification features.

18. Device (10) according to one or more of claims 15 to 17, characterized in that at least one of the identified retaining elements (15), in particular the conveying section (16) and / or the arrangement section (17), and / or the processing provided for in the article (11) of the food processing industry, taking into account at least one specific identification feature.

19. Device (10) according to claim 17 or 18, further comprising at least one computing unit and / or at least one storage unit to compare and store the specific identification features identified by means of the at least one identification unit and / or to control the conveying of the arrangement sections (17) along the conveying path (13) on the basis of the information contained in the specific identification features.

20. Method for conveying articles (11) of the food processing industry, in particular poultry hanging by its legs or poultry legs (11), comprising the following steps: - Providing a number of articles (11) of the food processing industry, in particular poultry hanging by its legs or of poultry legs (11), - Conveying articles (11) of the food processing industry along a conveying path (13) in a transport direction at a conveying speed by means of a conveying device (12) with a plurality of holding elements (15) each designed to receive at least one article (11) of the food processing industry, wherein the holding elements (15) comprise a conveying section (16) engaged with the conveying device (12) and an arrangement section (17) designed and equipped for arranging the articles (11), wherein the holding elements (15) each further comprise at least one coupling unit (18) designed and equipped for releasable coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section (16) and the arrangement section (17), - Controlling the coupling and / or decoupling of the holding elements (15) by means of the coupling unit (18) during the conveying of the holding elements (15) along the conveying path (13) in the transport direction (14), wherein at least one of the holding elements (15) is coupled and / or decoupled in at least one section of the conveying path (13) between the conveying section (16) and the arrangement section (17).

21. Method according to claim 20, characterized in that the coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section (16) and the arrangement section (17) is designed and set up by means of at least one coupling device (36) arranged along the conveying path (13).

22. Method according to claim 20 or 21, characterized in that when the arrangement section (17) is coupled with the conveying section (16), the coupled retaining elements (15) are conveyed substantially at the conveying speed of the conveying device (12) along the conveying path (13) and / or that when the arrangement section (17) is decoupled from the conveying section (16), the arrangement section (17) is substantially independent of the conveying speed of the conveying device (12) and the conveying section (16) is conveyed substantially at the conveying speed of the conveying device (12) along the conveying path (13). - 43 - 23. Method according to claim 21 or 22, characterized in that the coupling unit (18) and the at least one coupling device (36) are brought into operative connection such that when the holding elements are conveyed (15) along the at least one coupling device (36) a coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section (16) and the arrangement section (17) is formed and set up.

24. Method according to one or more of claims 20 to 23, characterized in that the coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section (16) and the arrangement section (17) is controlled by means of at least one release element (29) of the holding elements (15), in particular of the conveying section (16) and / or the arrangement section (17).

25. Method according to one or more of claims 21 to 24, characterized in that the coupling and / or decoupling between the conveying section (16) and the arrangement section (17) is controlled by means of at least one actuating element (30) of the coupling device (36).

26. Method according to claim 25, characterized in that the at least one release element (29) and the at least one actuating element (30) are brought into operative connection with each other in such a way that the conveying section (16) and the arrangement section (17) are coupled and / or decoupled with each other.

27. Method according to one or more of claims 20 to 26, characterized in that the coupling unit (18) comprises a locking element (19) that is variable at least between a locking position (20) and an opening position (21), wherein in the opening position (21) of the locking element (19) a relative change in position between the conveying section (16) and the arrangement section (17) is controlled for forming and setting up the coupling and / or decoupling, and wherein in the locking position (20) the conveying section (16) and the arrangement section (17) are formed and set up in a positionally secured relative to each other.

28. Method according to claim 27, characterized in that the locking element (19) is activated by means of the release element (29) and / or by means of the actuating - 44 - elements (30) at least between the open position (21) and the locked position (20) and / or at least between the locked position (20) and the open position (21).

29. Method according to claim 27 or 28, characterized in that, when conveying articles (11) of the food processing industry along the at least one coupling device (36), a decoupling and subsequent coupling between at least one conveying section (16) and at least one arrangement section (17) is formed and set up.

30. Method according to one or more of claims 20 to 29, characterized in that decoupled arrangement sections (17) in the area of ​​the at least one coupling device (36) are removed from the conveying section (13) by means of at least one discharge unit.

31. Method according to one or more of claims 20 to 30, characterized in that arrangement sections (17) in the area of ​​the at least one coupling device (36) are introduced by means of at least one insertion unit for coupling with a conveying section (16) and for conveying along the conveying path (13).

32. Method according to one or more of claims 20 to 31, characterized in that the articles (11) of the food processing industry are processed in the area of ​​the at least one coupling device (36) by means of at least one processing unit (27), in particular that the articles (11) are imaged by means of at least one detection unit (28).

33. Method according to one or more of claims 20 to 32, characterized in that at least one of the retaining elements (15), in particular the conveying section (16) and / or the arrangement section (17), comprises at least one specific identification feature, wherein the respective retaining element (15), in particular the conveying section (16) and / or the arrangement section (17), is identified along the conveying path (13).

34. Method according to claim 33, characterized in that at least one of the identified retaining elements (15), in particular the conveying section (16) and / or the assembly section (17), and / or an article (11) of the food processing industry arranged thereon, is processed taking into account the at least one specific identification feature.

35. Method according to claim 33 or 34, characterized in that the specific identification features identified by means of the at least one identification unit are compared with one another and / or stored in order to control the conveying and / or processing of the holding elements (15), in particular the conveying section (16) and / or the assembly section (17), and / or an article (11) of the food processing industry arranged thereon, along the conveying path based on the information contained in the specific identification features.

Images