Device for changing the axial orientation of suspended foodstuffs and apparatus for conveying suspended foodstuffs

Abstract

The present invention relates to a device (10) for changing the axial orientation of foodstuffs (30), comprising a main body (11) which has: a product portion (12) for suspending foodstuffs (30) by means of at least one holding element (13) which can be mounted on the product portion (12); and a transport portion (14) for mounting the device (10) on a conveying device (15), the device (10) comprising: a rotary mechanism (17) designed to rotate the product portion (12); a triggering element (20) which can be changed between at least a first triggering position (18) and a second triggering position (19) and has at least one triggering portion (21); and at least one transmission element (22) which is connected to the at least one triggering element (20), wherein the at least one transmission element (22) is operatively connected to the product portion (12) in such a way that, at least when the triggering element (20) changes from the first triggering position (18) to the second triggering position (19), a change to the product portion (12) by means of the at least one transmission element (22) is designed to at least partly axially rotate the orientation of the product portion (12). The invention further relates to a corresponding apparatus (100) for conveying foodstuffs (30).

Description

[0001] Baader Poultry Holding GmbH, Roggenhorster Straße 9c, 23556 Lübeck

[0002] Device for changing the axial orientation of hanging foodstuffs and device for conveying hanging foodstuffs

[0003] The present invention relates to a device designed and configured for changing the axial orientation of hanging foodstuffs, in particular poultry or poultry parts, comprising a base body with a product section for hanging the arrangement of foodstuffs, in particular poultry or poultry parts, by means of at least one holding element that can be arranged on the product section and a transport section for arranging the device on a conveying device, for moving the device at least section by section along a conveying path.

[0004] Furthermore, the invention relates to a device designed and equipped for conveying hanging foodstuffs, in particular poultry or poultry parts, comprising at least one conveying device with a conveying unit for the hanging conveying of foodstuffs along a conveying path with a plurality of units each equipped to receive a foodstuff.

[0005] Devices for changing the axial orientation of foodstuffs, as well as devices for conveying suspended foodstuffs, especially poultry or poultry parts, have been known in the art for many years and serve to supply the respective foodstuffs to processing stations or for transport within a processing plant. Such devices and equipment regularly comprise complex components and incur high costs in terms of implementation and daily operation.

[0006] In food processing, particularly in the handling of poultry or poultry parts, holding elements, known as "shackles," play a crucial role. These holding elements are typically part of a conveying system used in processing plants for the suspended transport of slaughtered poultry or poultry parts along a conveyor line. The holding elements are designed to securely fix the poultry and transport it throughout the entire process within the processing plant, passing through various stations such as defuzzling, eviscerating, or packaging.

[0007] The state of the art includes holding elements, so-called shackles, which are used to hold food, particularly poultry, by its legs, wings, or other body parts and to move it by means of a rigid conveying system. These conveying systems are typically based on continuously driven conveyor chains or belts to which the holding elements are attached at regular intervals. In this way, the food is transported in a predetermined, usually linear, direction of movement along a specific conveying path, which can include both horizontal and vertical sections.

[0008] A significant disadvantage of currently available conveying systems lies in the limited mobility of the transported poultry. The rigid coupling of the holding elements, known as shackles, to the conveying mechanism allows only a linear, fixed path of movement, which hinders flexible handling of the poultry during transport. This limitation can be particularly problematic when different processing steps require different positioning or movements of the poultry, such as cutting, sorting, or packaging. Furthermore, the rigid movement can lead to undesirable stresses or deformations of the food, which can negatively impact the quality of the final products.

[0009] Another problem is that the currently used holding elements, known as shackles, are often unable to adequately handle different sizes and shapes of food products, especially poultry or poultry parts. This leads to an increased susceptibility to errors when securing the food, particularly with irregularly shaped poultry parts such as wings or breasts. These shortcomings can not only reduce processing efficiency but also compromise the safety of the transport process, as poultry parts can unintentionally come loose or shift during transport.

[0010] It is known to rotate so-called shackles during transport along a conveyor belt using a gear mechanism. This technology is used for various purposes, particularly in poultry processing. Typically, a gear or similar rotating element is attached to the shackle, while a rack and pinion mechanism runs parallel to the conveyor belt, activating the shackle's rotation. However, a significant problem with this approach is that the gear and rack must mesh precisely to ensure reliable and secure rotation of the shackle. At high conveyor speeds, there is a considerable risk that this system will malfunction, leading to a complete failure of the rack and pinion mechanism.

[0011] Other methods and devices for rotating shackles are known from the prior art. For example, the subject matter of EP 0 916 265 also exhibits limitations regarding handling at high conveying speeds. Eccentrically arranged supports, controlled by a Maltese cross mechanism, allow slaughter animals to be rotated along a conveying line. While this design enables targeted access to or bypassing of specific processing stations without the need for multiple parallel conveying lines, it requires considerable mechanical and structural effort. Control is achieved via actuators that interact with the Maltese cross to position the animals correctly.Due to the high mechanical complexity resulting from the eccentric arrangement and the Maltese cross, precise adjustment and regular maintenance are required to ensure reliable operation. Furthermore, the numerous moving parts are susceptible to wear and malfunctions, increasing maintenance requirements compared to conventional rigid conveying systems. While the device described in EP 3 116 323 is fundamentally designed for higher conveying speeds, it offers lower reliability and does not provide sequential rotation of the shackles. The specified device enables the rotation of slaughter products, particularly poultry, during transport in an arc-shaped section of a processing line. This is achieved through the use of rotating elements that position the poultry as required.This is intended to minimize contact between neighboring birds, thereby reducing the risk of injury, particularly to the wings, and improving weighing accuracy. However, this solution requires relatively complex mechanics and precise adjustment of the rotating elements. These requirements could potentially lead to higher maintenance and operating costs. Furthermore, implementing such systems into existing production lines presents a technical challenge requiring some adaptation, as the described device necessitates an arc-shaped section that is not equally suitable for all applications. Another disadvantage of the aforementioned publications is that the shackle's rotation is always in a 1:1 ratio with the gear's rotation. This means the shackle rotates by precisely the same angle as the gear.

[0012] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a device that ensures safe, reliable, and demand-based rotation, particularly at high conveying speeds. Furthermore, the device should be versatile and suitable for various food products, especially different processing steps of poultry or poultry parts. It is also an object of the present invention to propose a corresponding device.

[0013] This task is solved by the aforementioned device in that the device comprises a rotary mechanism, wherein the rotary mechanism is designed and configured to rotate the product section at least section by section, wherein the rotary mechanism comprises a release element with at least one release section, which is variable between at least a first release position and a second release position, and at least one transmission element connected to the at least one release element, wherein the at least one transmission element is operatively connected to the product section in such a way that, at least when the release element changes from the first release position to the second release position, a change in the product section is designed and configured by means of the at least one transmission element to cause at least section by section axial rotation of the orientation of the product section.The device according to the invention can alternatively be referred to as a rotation device, rotary device, or the like. Furthermore, the product section can, for example, also be referred to as a product element and the transport section as a transport element. The device according to the invention ensures that hanging foodstuffs, in particular poultry or poultry parts, can be reliably, individually, and as required, adjusted in their axial orientation. In particular, the device according to the invention makes it possible to adjust the axial orientation of holding elements, so-called shackles, for transporting poultry or poultry parts, thereby allowing the corresponding foodstuffs to be rotated, for example.The device according to the invention offers particular advantages in the processing of poultry or poultry parts, wherein the poultry or poultry parts are preferably arranged hanging by their legs. The device enables precise and controlled rotation of the product section, thereby ensuring accurate positioning of the respective foodstuffs, especially poultry or poultry parts, during transport along the conveyor line.Furthermore, the rotary mechanism, which can alternatively be referred to as a rotary unit or the like, offers a high degree of flexibility in the orientation of the product section due to the trigger element being variable between different release positions. This allows for targeted and different processing steps to be carried out on or in relation to the foodstuff, depending on the position of the trigger element and the resulting rotation. In the device according to the invention with the rotary mechanism, the rotation of the product section, and thus directly also of the shackle, can be adjusted with a variable gear ratio, for example, 1:2 or higher. This enables great flexibility and efficiency in rotating the shackle during transport and at appropriately designed processing stations.

[0014] The rotary mechanism with the release element, comprising at least one release section and at least one transmission element connected to the release element, ensures that the corresponding components of the device according to the invention always engage reliably, thereby guaranteeing continuous and safe operation even at high speeds. The release element and / or the at least one transmission element are preferably designed and configured as mechanical components that enable force transmission according to the desired specifications. In particular, depending on the design of the components, the device according to the invention with the rotary mechanism offers the possibility of ensuring a slow rotary movement of the product section – and thus also, if present, the shackles – at high conveying speeds (up to 400 poultry parts per minute).This slow rotational movement is particularly important to prevent food items, especially legs, feet, or other parts, from slipping or falling out of the product section or shackle. A further advantage is the reliability of the rotational mechanism, especially at high conveying speeds, which ensures smooth and reliable rotation of the product section. Simultaneously, the rotation is gentle and continuous, thus avoiding the risk of damage or deformation to the equipment or adjacent components. Furthermore, the automatic adjustment of the release element between release positions enables efficient and smooth process operation without the need for manual intervention, thereby increasing the overall efficiency of systems in which the devices according to the invention are used.

[0015] The base body of the device according to the invention is preferably at least partially designed as a housing or enclosed by a corresponding housing. Such base bodies or housings facilitate cleaning and protect the internal components from unintentional external access, soiling, and contamination with unwanted substances. Furthermore, damage to sensitive components required for the rotary movement is prevented.

[0016] A further advantage of the device according to the invention is the selective control of the trigger elements, which allows for a predetermined orientation of the product sections, so that, for example, every second section points in a different direction. Depending on the application, this enables a customized and efficient way of providing a desired axial change. Furthermore, the device offers the possibility of using and adapting the rotary mechanism for a wide variety of applications related to the conveying of food, in particular poultry or poultry parts, where rotation is required, for example, in connection with processing or transfer processes.

[0017] The device according to the invention is also cost-effective to manufacture and can be easily produced in large quantities, making it suitable for large-scale industrial use. Furthermore, compared to existing solutions, the device is simple and standardized to manufacture, which also contributes to lower production and material costs without compromising functionality or reliability. This results in an economically advantageous solution that can be easily implemented in large processing plants, thus supporting economies of scale.

[0018] The "foodstuffs" to be axially reoriented by means of the device according to the invention include, for the purposes of the invention, any foodstuffs that can be suspended, in particular poultry or poultry parts. If such poultry or poultry parts are poultry bodies or poultry legs, they are preferably suspended by their ankles from the corresponding holding elements. However, it is equally possible to axially reorient or convey other foodstuffs or other poultry parts by means of the device according to the invention, which are not suspended by their legs but are generally suspended, for example, by their heads. Other foodstuffs preferably intended for axial reorientation or conveying in the field of poultry processing could, for example, be packages of offal or entrails.

[0019] A "product section" within the meaning of the invention is understood to be a component designed for the suspended arrangement and subsequent transport of foodstuffs, in particular poultry or poultry parts. This section serves specifically to enable the arrangement of the foodstuffs on the device according to the invention and is designed accordingly. The product section can, for example, be designed as a general receptacle, such as a hook or an eyelet, or alternatively be specifically adapted to the corresponding holding elements or foodstuffs to be arranged.

[0020] A "transport section" within the meaning of the invention is understood to be a component that serves, in particular, to mount the device on a conveying system and to enable at least partial movement of the device along a conveying path. This transport section is designed to ensure a stable and reliable connection with the conveying system, thereby guaranteeing reliable transport of the device. The transport section can be available in various configurations and adapted to corresponding existing conveying systems. It is advantageous to design the transport section to meet the specific requirements of the respective conveying path. This can be achieved, for example, by suitable fastening elements or brackets that allow for flexible arrangement and adaptation to different conveying systems and the food products being conveyed.

[0021] A preferred embodiment is characterized in that the base body is formed at least from a lower base body part facing the transport section and an upper base body part facing the product section. The base body of the device according to the invention is preferably at least partially designed as a housing or at least partially enclosed by a corresponding housing. An advantage of the described preferred embodiment lies in the modular design of the base body, which consists of a lower base body part facing the transport section and an upper base body part facing the product section. The base body is particularly designed as a two-part structure, which can be connected to one another and essentially contains the components for the rotary mechanism. This division allows for flexible adaptation and facilitates the assembly and maintenance of the device.Furthermore, the separation into lower and upper parts helps to ensure that the components can be specifically tailored to the requirements of transport and product arrangement and manufactured in large quantities from the desired materials.

[0022] An advantageous further development is characterized by the fact that the rotary mechanism is essentially located and positioned between the product section and the transport section, particularly within the base body between the lower and upper parts. This arrangement protects the rotary mechanism from external influences and reduces wear, thus increasing the service life and reliability of the device. Furthermore, this arrangement enables a compact design, facilitating installation and integration into existing conveyor systems without requiring additional space or complex interaction systems.

[0023] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the rotary mechanism is designed and configured as a spur gear drive, in particular a rack and pinion drive. This mechanism enables precise and controlled axial adjustment of the orientation of hanging food products such as poultry or poultry parts. A spur gear drive offers high efficiency in rotary transmission and enables smooth movement, which is particularly advantageous for the precise control of the food's positioning during processing. Furthermore, the gear ratio can be adjusted and selected depending on the choice of drive or the components used. Generally, a rack and pinion drive offers the advantage of converting linear motion into rotary motion, allowing for flexible adaptation to different processing requirements.The rotary mechanism thus contributes to greater accuracy and reliability, which improves machining quality and safety during intended use. Furthermore, additional components may be required or advantageous for the complementary function of the rotary mechanism as a spur or rack and pinion drive. These include, among other things, guide and bearing components for stabilizing the drive, as well as an actuator or drive unit to initiate the rotary motion. A locking mechanism may be provided to ensure the precise positioning of the product section, while sensors and a control unit can support accurate monitoring and adjustment of the rotation. Couplings or connecting elements enable secure power transmission, while shock absorbers or buffers help dampen vibrations, thereby extending the service life of the equipment.Overall, a significant advantage of the aforementioned device lies in the fact that, through the principle of gear rotation via the corresponding rotary mechanism, both a rack and a second gear or gear segment are provided for actuating the first gear. This feature allows the shackle to be rotated in both directions, depending on which side, or whether both sides, of the conveyor section the actuating element is located on.

[0024] A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the product section and the release element each comprise a transmission element, wherein the transmission element is designed and configured as a transmission gear, and the product section comprises a product section gear and the release element a release element gear. This embodiment, in which the product section comprises a product section gear and the release element a release element gear, ensures precise and reliable power transmission when the release element is actuated. This gear combination enables a smooth and controlled rotational movement of the product section, which optimizes the positioning and stability of the food products during transport and allows for a wide variety of applications.Furthermore, the transmission mechanism, with its corresponding gears, offers high reliability and durability of the system, even under demanding operating conditions. This not only increases the efficiency of the rotation but also the adaptability of the system to different production requirements, thus improving the overall performance and versatility of the system.

[0025] According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the at least one trigger section can be engaged with at least one actuating element and / or at least one positioning element to form and establish actuation of the at least one trigger section and a change in the trigger element at least between a first trigger position and a second trigger position. This enables targeted and precise control of the trigger element, so that it is reliably movable at least between a first and a second trigger position. This mobility improves the adaptability of the system by allowing precise control over the rotation and positioning of the product section at specifically intended times. Furthermore, the possibility of variable positioning contributes to the efficiency of the entire conveying process and ensures uniform handling of the food during processing.Preferably, the release section is adjustable between more than two release positions. In particular, more than two release positions allow for different angles to be set with respect to the intended rotational movement, in order to create and configure a suitable change depending on the intended application.

[0026] A further advantageous embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the at least one actuating element is designed and configured as a curved track arranged at least partially along a conveyor section. A curved track enables precise control of the release mechanism during transport by guiding the movement of the release element precisely and uniformly along the conveyor section. This allows for exact control of the position and rotation of the product section, which is particularly important for sensitive food products being conveyed. Furthermore, the curved track preferably requires no additional mechanical or electronic drives, making the overall design simpler, requiring less maintenance, and more cost-effective. The use of a curved track, especially a permanently installed one, ensures high reliability because it is less susceptible to malfunctions.Furthermore, the curved track offers the possibility of individually adapting the movement to the requirements of different conveying lines or food products being conveyed, thus increasing the flexibility, versatility, and application possibilities of the device. A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the base body and / or the at least one transmission element is / are essentially formed from a molding material, in particular an injection-molded material. This enables cost-effective and flexible production of components in large quantities, which is particularly advantageous for series production. Injection-molded materials also offer high dimensional stability and durability, which contributes to improved dimensional accuracy and reliability of the individual components.Since several thousand holding elements, especially shackles, are often used in a conveyor line for processing poultry or poultry parts, it is crucial that the device according to the invention is as small, compact, and cost-effective to manufacture as possible. This is achieved through the use of injection-molded plastic parts. Furthermore, the use of injection-molded materials allows for flexible component design, so that specific requirements, such as an optimized shape for stabilizing certain components, can be easily accommodated. In addition, the use of an injection-molded material contributes to weight reduction of the device, which in turn lowers the overall energy consumption of the conveyor system and makes the process more efficient.

[0027] A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that, upon actuation of the trigger element, the rotary mechanism provides for an axial rotation of the product section within a range of 1° to 360°. The ability to rotate around the entire axis allows for precise adjustment of the product section's positioning, which is particularly relevant for optimal handling and presentation when processing foodstuffs such as poultry or poultry parts. Furthermore, this method preferably allows for fine-tuned rotation of the product section, enabling the process to be adapted to various requirements, whether for improved visibility during inspections or for optimizing subsequent processing.Furthermore, the ability to rotate the entire unit contributes to its versatility by allowing for a wide range of applications and adjustments to meet the specific requirements of food processing.

[0028] An advantageous further development is characterized by the fact that the device includes at least one locking element, which is designed and configured to secure the product section during a planned rotation. This locking element ensures stable and reliable fixation of the product section, thereby minimizing the risk of unwanted movement or misalignment of the food during the conveying process. The locking element makes it possible to fix the device in the desired positions, ensuring safe handling during operation and preventing unwanted changes between different rotational positions. In other words, the locking element can also be referred to as a locking mechanism.The locking mechanism is preferably characterized in that the rotary mechanism is designed and configured as a locking mechanism with at least one locking element in or on the release element and / or in or on the at least one transmission element to securely lock the product section in a desired or predetermined rotational position. The integrated locking mechanism makes it possible to securely lock the product section with the shackle in the desired rotational position. This locking mechanism, which is integrated, for example, into the release element, particularly the rack, or into the at least one transmission element, particularly a gear, ensures that the product section, and in particular a shackle attached to it, is reliably and securely held at any angle. In a preferred embodiment, this ensures that the position of the product section remains unchanged.The shackle is fixed between at least one actuating element, preferably two actuating elements, thus enabling precise and reliable handling. This ensures that the food is held in the desired position throughout transport.

[0029] Furthermore, the problem is solved by the aforementioned device in that at least one of the components is designed and configured according to the device according to the invention. To avoid repetition, particular reference is made in connection with the device 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 device according to the invention.

[0030] A further advantageous embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the device further comprises at least one actuating element and / or adjusting element arranged along the conveyor path such that the at least one actuating element and / or adjusting element can be brought into engagement with a release section of the device in order to actuate the at least one release section and to change the release element at least between a first release position and a second release position. A significant advantage of this advantageous embodiment lies in the integration of an actuating element and / or adjusting element arranged along the conveyor path that can be brought into engagement with at least one release section of the device.This arrangement enables precise and targeted actuation of at least one release section, ensuring controlled movement of the release element between the first and second release positions. This allows for precise control and regulation of the product section's position and rotation, which is particularly advantageous when handling hanging food products. The dynamic adjustment of the release positions allows for optimal adaptation of the device to varying requirements during conveying, thereby increasing efficiency and safety in a processing plant. Furthermore, the combination of the actuating element and release section contributes to improved device functionality by ensuring smooth and uninterrupted food movement during the conveying process.

[0031] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the at least one actuating element is designed and configured as a cam track arranged at least partially along the conveyor path. This configuration enables precise and continuous control of the release mechanism by guiding the movement of the at least one release section along the predetermined conveyor path via the cam track, thus enabling appropriate actuation of the release element. The cam track allows for simple and reliable implementation of required movement patterns, which is advantageous for handling hanging food products. The cam track also enables precise positional adjustment of the product section to ensure appropriate positioning of the food products within the processing process.

[0032] An advantageous embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the at least one actuating element is designed and configured as a driven or driveable actuator arranged at least partially along the conveying path. The driven or driveable actuator enables targeted and active control of the release mechanism by allowing the actuating element to be moved precisely and individually by a drive. The use of an actuator allows for precise positional adjustment of the product section, resulting in greater flexibility and adaptability in the processing. This is particularly advantageous when a rapid response to different food sizes or specific process requirements is necessary.Furthermore, the driven actuator contributes to the automation and increased efficiency of the device, as it enables precise and repeatable positioning. Moreover, this makes it possible to rotate only individual devices according to the invention according to predefined parameters, without having to design and set up a corresponding rotation for all devices according to the invention conveyed along the conveyor line.

[0033] Further expedient and / or advantageous features and developments, as well as preferred device components, are described in the dependent claims and the description. Particularly preferred embodiments of the device or apparatus are explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings show:

[0034] Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of a first embodiment of a device according to the invention in an exploded view,

[0035] Fig. 2 shows a further schematic representation of the device according to the invention shown in Fig. 1 in the assembled state,

[0036] Fig. 3 shows a schematic representation of a second embodiment of a device according to the invention in the assembled state,

[0037] Fig. 4 shows a schematic representation of a section of a first embodiment of a device according to the invention in perspective view,

[0038] Fig. 5 is a schematic representation of a section of a second embodiment of a device according to the invention in perspective view, Fig. 6 is a schematic detail view of a further embodiment of a device according to the invention in top view and

[0039] Fig. 7 shows a schematic representation of devices according to the invention in various intended applications.

[0040] The device 10 and the apparatus 100 according to the invention are described in more detail with reference to the aforementioned figures.

[0041] The devices 10 and apparatus 100 shown in the drawings are examples of conveying hanging poultry 30, in particular poultry parts 30, such as poultry legs 30 or the like, for which example hanging poultry legs 30 are shown in Fig. 7 as the foodstuff 30 to be conveyed or rotated. However, the invention relates in a more general way to devices 10 and apparatus 100 that are generally intended for rotating or conveying hanging foodstuffs 30 and can be adapted accordingly.

[0042] Figures 1 to 7 schematically show embodiments of a device 10, designed and configured for changing the axial orientation of hanging food products 30, in particular poultry 30 or poultry parts 30. The devices 10 shown comprise a base body 11 with a product section 12 for hanging food products 30, in particular poultry 30 or poultry parts 30, by means of at least one holding element 13 attachable to the product section 12, and a transport section 14 for attaching the device 10 to a conveying device 15, for moving the device 10 at least section by section along a conveying path 16. Different holding elements 13 for hanging food products 30, in particular poultry 30 or poultry parts 30, are shown in particular in Figures 4, 5, and 7. Furthermore, Figures 4, 5, and 7 show...7 corresponding transport elements 33, which are provided for moving the devices 10 along the conveyor path 15 by means of the conveyor device 15. Excerpts of conveyor devices 15 are shown by way of example in Figs. 4 and 5. Such conveyor devices 15 generally have at least one conveyor element 32, which in this case is designed as a conveyor chain 32, in order to transport the corresponding transport sections 14 along the conveyor path 16. However, other conveyor devices 15 may also be considered that do not have corresponding conveyor elements 32.

[0043] According to the invention, this device 10 is characterized in that the device 10 comprises a rotary mechanism 17, wherein the rotary mechanism 17 is designed and configured for rotating the product section 12 at least section by section. Figures 4 and 5 illustrate the process of rotation by means of the rotary mechanism 17, in which the retaining elements 13 arranged on the product section 12 undergo an axial change in the direction of transport. For this purpose, the rotary mechanism 17 comprises a release element 20, which is variable between at least a first release position 18 and a second release position 19, and has at least one release section 21, and at least one transmission element 22 connected to the at least one release element 20. The release element 18 with its variable positions 18, 19 is shown in detail in the top view of Figure 6.Figure 6 shows three positions, with the transition between the individual positions preferably being fluid. The device 10 according to the invention is further characterized in that the at least one transmission element 22 is operatively connected to the product section 12 in such a way that, at least when the release element 20 changes from the first release position 18 to the second release position 19, a change in the product section 12 is formed and arranged by means of the at least one transmission element 22 for at least partial axial rotation of the orientation of the product section 12. In Figure 6, corresponding transmission elements 22, which can also be referred to as transmission sections, are shown, wherein these bring about an axial change in the product section and thereby in the respective holding element 13 or the foodstuff 30 when changing between the release positions 18, 19, as shown in Figures 4 and 6.5 is shown.

[0044] The exploded view in Fig. 1 shows the essential components of the device 10 according to the invention in detail. The base body 11 of the device is formed at least from a lower base body part 23 facing the transport section 14 and an upper base body part 24 facing the product section 12. Further components may, for example, be designed differently depending on the configuration of the conveying device 15 and / or the retaining elements 13 to be arranged on the product section 12 and / or the conveyed foodstuffs 30, and may in particular include additional components. Preferably, the device comprises at least one fastening element 31 to connect the lower base body part 23 and the upper base body part 24 to each other. As shown in Fig. 2 and in particular in Fig.As can be seen from Figure 1, the rotary mechanism 17 is preferably formed and arranged substantially between the product section 12 and the transport section 14, and in particular substantially within the base body 11 between the lower part 23 and the upper part 24. In further preferred embodiments, the base body 11 may be enclosed, at least partially, by a housing (not shown in the figures). In a further advantageous embodiment, the base body 11 and / or the at least one transmission element 22 is / are formed substantially from a molding material, in particular an injection-molded material. The material of the base body 11 and / or the at least one transmission element 22 is particularly preferably at least one type of plastic.

[0045] Preferably, the product section 12 and the release element 20 each comprise a transmission element 22, wherein the transmission element 22 is configured and arranged as a transmission gear 25, the product section 12 comprising a product section gear 26 and the release element 20 comprising a release element gear 27. In further preferred embodiments, the release element gear 27 is configured as a corresponding rack. In alternative embodiments, it may be advantageous that the respective transmission element 22 of the product section 12 and / or the release element 20 does not directly comprise / comprise, but rather that the respective transmission element 22 is connected, in particular permanently connected, to the associated product section 12 and / or the release element 20.The transmission elements 22 of the product section 12 and the release element 20 are designed and configured to work together in order to transmit a force to provide the change in position when the release element 20 is actuated.

[0046] The rotary mechanism 17 is particularly preferably designed and configured as a spur gear drive, especially as a rack and pinion drive. Figures 1 and 6, in particular, show the components that form the respective spur gear drive and rack and pinion drive, respectively. In Figure 1, the product section 12 has a gear on the product-repelling side, which is designed to interact with a rack or an internally toothed spur gear arranged within the release element 20. In the second embodiment of the device 10 according to the invention, shown in Figure 3, an equivalent design of the first embodiment of the device 10 according to the invention is shown, except that here a rack is provided for interaction with the gear of the product section 12. Preferably, the rotary mechanism 17 provides for an axial rotation of the product section 12 in a range of 1° to 360° when the release element 20 is actuated.

[0047] As shown in Figures 4 to 6, in a preferred embodiment, the at least one release section 21 can be engaged with at least one actuating element 28 and / or at least one positioning element 34 to actuate the at least one release section 21 and change the release element 20 at least between a first release position 18 and a second release position 19. By engaging the at least one actuating element 28 and / or the at least one positioning element 34, a change in the product section 12 can be effected, which in turn changes the axial orientation of the foodstuffs 30. Preferably, the at least one actuating element 28 is designed and configured as a cam track 28 arranged at least partially along a conveyor section 16. In Figures 4 and 6, the following are shown:Figure 6 shows two actuating elements 28, each designed as a cam track 28 for changing the orientation of the product section 12 and thus of foodstuffs 30. When the transport sections 14, which are transported along the conveyor path 16 by means of the conveyor device 15 on the transport elements 33, engage with the cam track 28, the release section 21 changes position and a corresponding rotation of the product section 12 or the respective holding element 13 or foodstuff arranged thereon is formed, as shown in Figure 4. The cam tracks 28 can generally be individually and according to requirements depending on the intended application, desired processing, or desired rotational movement 37, as is also shown by way of example in Figure 6.In further preferred embodiments, it may also be advantageous if the cam tracks 28 are variably designed and configured, with an adapted rotation being provided by means of the device 10 according to the invention. This allows, in particular, the speed of the retaining elements 13 to be selectively adjusted even at very high conveying speeds, in order to preferably create and establish a slow, but preferably a constant, rotary movement 37, especially with respect to the conveying speed. Furthermore, a corresponding individual adjustment of the rotary speed is possible by means of the at least one actuating element 34. The at least one actuating element 28 and / or the at least one actuating element 34 thus enable a demand-based adjustment of the rotary speed of the respective retaining elements 13, thereby enabling, in particular, slow or individually adjustable rotary movements 37.

[0048] In Fig. 5, the actuating element 34 is designed and configured as a pneumatic cylinder. In further preferred embodiments not shown, at least one of the actuating elements 34 can alternatively or additionally have at least one servo drive to realize the change in position upon actuation. The speed and the angle of rotation 37 to be achieved can thus be individually and / or required-based adjusted. In further preferred embodiments, the actuating element 34 can be configured with alternative or additional means to generate and configure a corresponding impulse for providing the rotation of the device 10 according to the invention.

[0049] As can preferably be seen from the exploded view in Fig. 1, the device 10 according to the invention further comprises at least one locking element 29, wherein the at least one locking element 29 is designed and configured to secure the product section 12 during a predetermined rotation. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 1, two locking elements 29 are provided, which together form the locking mechanism, which can also be referred to as a locking mechanism. In this case, one of the locking elements 29 is formed by an engagement element 35 and an engagement recess 36. In further preferred embodiments, a plurality or multiple engagement recesses 36 can be provided, which are designed and configured to engage and correspondingly secure the release element 20 in a predetermined position.For securing, the corresponding engagement element 35 can be locked with the at least one engagement recess 36, thereby securing the position.

[0050] The device 100 according to the invention, which is designed and configured for conveying hanging foodstuffs 30, in particular poultry 30 or poultry parts 30, will be described in more detail below only in selected aspects, since the device 100 has already been described essentially in connection with the device 10 according to the invention. As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the device 100 according to the invention comprises at least one conveying unit 15 with a plurality of units 10, each configured to receive a foodstuff 30, for conveying hanging foodstuffs 30 along a conveying path 16. For arranging the foodstuffs 30, at least one holding element 13 is preferably provided on the unit 10, which is designed and configured to receive the foodstuffs 30 accordingly. Depending on the configuration of the device 100 or unit 10, respectively, the device 10 may be configured with a number of units 10, each configured to receive a foodstuff 30.Several foodstuffs 30, such as poultry legs 30, can be accommodated in a single device 10. According to the invention, the device 100 is characterized in that at least one of the devices 10 provided for accommodating the foodstuffs 30 is designed and configured as a device 10 according to the invention. With the device 10 according to the invention, a corresponding axial movement of the foodstuffs 30, in particular poultry 30 or poultry parts 30, arranged thereon is possible.

[0051] In a further preferred embodiment, the device 100 further comprises at least one actuating element 28 and / or adjusting element 34 arranged along the conveyor path 16 such that the at least one actuating element 28 and / or adjusting element 34 can be brought into engagement with a release section 21 of the device 10 according to the invention in order to actuate the at least one release section 21 and change the release element 20 at least between a first release position 18 and a second release position 19. The change of the release positions 18, 19 is shown by way of example in Figs. 4 and 5. In Fig. 4, corresponding holding elements 13 are shown, which are currently in the process of rotation. The holding elements shown in Fig.In the illustrated embodiment, the actuating elements 28 arranged along the conveying path 16 cause the retaining elements 13 of all conveyed devices 10 along the conveying path 16 to rotate 180° about their longitudinal axis. This means that all retaining elements 13 that pass the actuating element 28 rotate 180° during the conveying process. Fig. 6 shows an exemplary rotation of devices 10 by means of two actuating elements 28, with the individual components of the device 10 being of an alternative configuration. The actuating element 34, shown again in Fig. 5, enables selective rotation of individual devices 10 by actuating desired devices 10 as needed. This occurs here with every second retaining element 13, causing them to be rotated sequentially by 180°.In principle, by means of the at least one actuating element 28 and / or the at least one positioning element 34, preferably any rotation in the range of 1° to 360° is possible, which depends on the predominant components and the machining requirements.

[0052] In the device 100 according to the invention, as shown in detail in Figs. 4 and 6, it is further preferred that the at least one actuating element 28 is designed and configured as a curved track 28 arranged at least partially along the conveyor section 16. It is further preferred that the at least one actuating element 34 is designed and configured as a driven or driveable actuator 34 arranged at least partially along the conveyor section 16.

[0053] Fig. 7 further shows a non-exhaustive exemplary list of various holding elements 13 and transport elements 33 that can be used with the device 10 according to the invention and for conveying with the device 100 according to the invention. Two stylized poultry legs 30 are shown on one of the holding elements, representing hanging foodstuffs 30 in general. Fig. 7 also shows, by way of example, the rotational movement 37 possible with one of the devices 10 according to the invention for axially changing the holding element 13 corresponding to the respective product section 12. The rotational movement 37 is not explicitly shown in the other devices 10 according to the invention, but occurs analogously. In addition, two of the transport elements 33 in Fig. 7 are designed as pipe track trolleys 38.Two further transport elements 33 are designed as T-shaped trolleys 39, so-called "tee track trolleys". The respective conveying element 32, the conveyor chain 32, is not included in the schematic embodiments of Fig. 7.

[0054] The retaining elements 13 shown in Fig. 7 from right to left are intended for different applications, which will be briefly discussed below. Fig. 7 shows differently designed retaining elements 13 for use with the device 10 according to the invention. The retaining elements 13 on the far right are intended for a weighing, transfer, and sorting line 40. The next retaining element 13 is intended for an air cooling, transfer, and distribution line 41 for cooling and distributing products. The next retaining element 13 is intended for a picking and / or evisceration line 42 to ensure precise and reliable handling during the evisceration process.This is followed by a holding element 13, which is designed for an offal insertion line 43 (Giblet Pack Line) and enables the safe and hygienic provision of offal. The penultimate holding element 13 is provided for an evisceration line 44. The holding elements 13 on the far left are provided for a kill and defeathering line 45. Each of the illustrated holding elements 13 is intended for use with the device 10 according to the invention in various operations on a device 100 according to the invention.

[0055] In a further preferred embodiment, the rotation of the corresponding foodstuffs 30 required by the device 100 is detected, determined and / or controlled by means of at least one computer unit (not shown in detail in the figures) and / or by means of at least one control unit. For this purpose, additional detection elements or control elements may preferably be provided.

Claims

- 23 - 1. Device (10), designed and configured for changing the axial orientation of hanging foodstuffs (30), in particular poultry (30) or poultry parts (30), comprising a base body (11) with a product section (12) for hanging foodstuffs (30), in particular poultry (30) or poultry parts (30), by means of at least one holding element (13) attachable to the product section (12) and a transport section (14) for attaching the device (10) to a conveying device (15) for moving the device (10) at least section by section along a conveying path (16), characterized in that the device (10) comprises a rotary mechanism (17), wherein the rotary mechanism (17) is designed and configured for rotating the product section (12) at least section by section.wherein the rotary mechanism (17) comprises a release element (20) variable between at least a first release position (18) and a second release position (19) with at least one release section (21) and at least one transmission element (22) connected to the at least one release element (20), wherein the at least one transmission element (22) is operatively connected to the product section (12) such that at least when the release element (20) changes from the first release position (18) to the second release position (19), a change in the product section (12) is formed and arranged by means of the at least one transmission element (22) for at least partial axial rotation of the orientation of the product section (12).

2. Device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that the base body (11) is formed at least from a base body lower part (23) facing the transport section (14) and a base body upper part (24) facing the product section (12).

3. Device (10) according to claim 2, characterized in that the rotary mechanism (17) is substantially located between the product section (12) and the Transport section (14), in particular essentially within the base body (11) between the base body lower part (23) and the base body upper part (24), is formed and equipped.

4. Device (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the rotary mechanism (17) is designed and configured as a spur gear drive, in particular as a rack and pinion drive.

5. Device (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the product section (12) and the release element (20) each comprise a transmission element (22), wherein the transmission element (22) is each designed and configured as a transmission gear (25), wherein the product section (12) comprises a product section gear (26) and the release element (20) comprises a release element gear (27).

6. Device (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the at least one release section (21) can be engaged with at least one actuating element (28) and / or at least one actuating element (34) in order to form and establish an actuation of the at least one release section (21) and a change of the release element (20) at least between a first release position (18) and a second release position (19).

7. Device (10) according to claim 6, characterized in that the at least one actuating element (28) is designed and configured as a curved track (28) arranged at least sectionally along a conveying path (16).

8. Device (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the base body (11) and / or the at least one transmission element (22) is / are formed essentially from a molding material, in particular from an injection molding material.

9. Device (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, by means of the rotary mechanism (17) during an actuation The release element (20) is designed to allow axial rotation of the product section (12) in a range of 1° to 360°.

10. Device (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 9, further comprising at least one locking element (29), wherein the at least one locking element (29) is designed and configured to secure the product section (12) during a planned rotation.

11. Device (100), designed and equipped for conveying hanging foodstuffs (30), in particular poultry (30) or poultry parts (30), comprising at least one conveying device (15) with a conveying unit (10) for conveying hanging foodstuffs (30) along a conveying path (16) with a plurality of units (10) each designed to receive a foodstuff (30), characterized in that at least one of the units (10) is designed and equipped according to one or more of claims 1 to 10.

12. Device (100) according to claim 11, characterized in that the device (100) further comprises at least one actuating element (28) and / or adjusting element (34) arranged along the conveying path (16) such that the at least one actuating element (28) and / or adjusting element (34) can be brought into engagement with a release section (21) of the device (10) in order to form and establish an actuation of the at least one release section (21) and a change of the release element (20) at least between a first release position (18) and a second release position (19).

13. Device (100) according to claim 12, characterized in that the at least one actuating element (28) is designed and configured as a curved track (28) arranged at least sectionally along the conveying path (16).

14. Device (100) according to claim 12, characterized in that the at least one actuating element (34) is designed and configured as a driven or driveable actuator (29) arranged at least sectionally along the conveying path (16).

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