System and method for cutting products

Abstract

System for cutting products, for example potatoes, comprising: - at least two cutting devices (4a, 4b), each provided with one or more knifes (5); and - liquid supply means (11), configured to selectively supply the products (P) in a liquid stream to one of the at least two cutting devices (4a, 4b), such that the products (P), under the influence of fluid pressure, are cut by the at least one knife (S) of a selected cutting device (4a, 4b); wherein the liquid supply means (11) are provided with a valve body (12) rotatably mounted in a valve housing (13), wherein the valve housing (13) comprises an inlet port (K) for receiving the fluid flow, as well as at least two outlet ports (Pl, P2), each of which is in fluid communication with one respective cutting device of the at least two cutting devices (4a, 4b), wherein the valve body (12) contains a fluid channel (12a) which is configured to connect the inlet port (K) to a first outlet port (Pl) of the at least two outlet ports in a first rotational position of the valve body (12), and to connect the inlet port (K) to a second outlet port (P2) of the at least two outlet ports in a second rotational position of the valve body (12).

Description

[0001] Title: System and method for cutting products

[0002] The invention relates to a system for cutting products, for example, potatoes. In addition, the invention provides a method for cutting products.

[0003] Systems for cutting products are known in diverse variants. The system usually includes a cutting device, provided with one or more knives, for carrying out a cutting process According to an advantageous embodiment, liquid supply means are used to supply the products in a liquid stream (in particular a water stream) to the at least one knife, such that the products, under the influence of fluid pressure, are cut by the at least one knife of the cutting device.

[0004] The products to be cut may, for instance, comprise cuttable food products, for example, potatoes or other edible bulbous or tuberous products, vegetable products or fruit products. Preferably, the products are each cut into separate product parts (e.g., slices, or elongate parts) for the purpose of further processing.

[0005] In practice, it appears that the knife gets dull with the lapse of time. As a result, the quality of cut product may deteriorate. The product may, for instance, obtain an unwanted shape, such as with breakage of the cut product and product fragments. Furthermore, the product may be damaged in a less visible manner, for instance, having damage such as small cracks and greater roughness. In a follow-up process, this may give rise to more breakage of the product, and, for example, a greater absorption of liquid (e.g., frying oil if a frying process is to be carried out). In the known process, therefore, the knife is periodically replaced with a new (sharp) knife.

[0006] NL9200545 discloses a device for cutting tuberous products, such as potatoes, wherein the device is provided with a frame and a tube supported by the frame, through which a liquid containing tuberous products can be pumped by means of a pump, to be transported to an aligning means and cutting mechanism. For example, if a blockage occurs in the system or if the cutting mechanism in use needs to be replaced with another cutting mechanism for some reason, a tube section can be swivelled to a second position so that the tuberous products are directed to a second cutting mechanism. The swivel tube is equipped with resilient bellows at both ends. The tube is adjusted using a coupling part that can be moved horizontally by a piston rod of an adjustment cylinder.

[0007] The disadvantage of the well-known system is that it requires a relatively large footprint and must be accessible from both sides by an operator. In addition, adjusting the swivel tube (which is filled with water and product in use) can interfere with the continuous operation of the system.

[0008] The present invention aims to eliminate, or at least to reduce, the above-mentioned disadvantages of the known system. In particular, the invention aims to provide a system which can cut the products reliably and efficiently, such that product parts (i.e., cut product) of good quality can be produced. Furthermore, the invention aims to provide a system that can switch quickly, reliably, and efficiently between different cutting fines.

[0009] To that end, according to an aspect of the invention, the system is characterized by the features of claim 1.

[0010] In particular, the invention provides a system for cutting products, for example potatoes, comprising:

[0011] - at least two cutting devices, each provided with one or more knifes; and

[0012] - liquid supply means, configured to selectively supply products in a liquid stream to one of the at least two cutting devices, such that the products, under the influence of fluid pressure, are cut by the at least one knife of a selected cutting device;

[0013] wherein the liquid supply means are provided with a valve body rotatably mounted in a valve housing, wherein the valve housing comprises an inlet port for receiving the liquid flow, as well as at least two outlet ports, each of which is in fluid communication with one respective cutting device of the at least two cutting devices, the valve body comprising a fluid channel that is configured to connect the inlet port to a first outlet port of the at least two outlet ports in a first rotational position of the valve body, and to connect the inlet port to a second outlet port of the at least two outlet ports in a second rotational position of the valve body.

[0014] The system can process the aforementioned products (e.g., potatoes or other types of bulbous or tuberous products) reliably and efficiently, at relatively high speed, while effectively preventing damage to the products. Switching the supply of products from one cutting device to another can be done quickly and reliably by rotating the valve body to a corresponding rotational position. Preferably, the valve body is arranged in a rotatable way only, and not in a translatable way, relative to the valve housing. More specifically, the valve body can rotate around a central axis, enabling stable and rapid rotation.

[0015] According to an additional advantageous embodiment of the invention, the at least two cutting devices are located at different heights, preferably one directly above the other. The same applies to any other components of the system (if present) that may be arranged upstream and downstream of the respective cutting devices, such as associated supply channels, discharge channels, liquid flow accelerator parts, and / or liquid flow decelerator parts.

[0016] One aspect of the invention also provides a method that, for example, uses the system according to the invention.

[0017] The method comprises:

[0018] - passing a liquid stream containing the products from an inlet port of a valve housing, through a fluid channel of a valve body mounted in the valve housing, to a first outlet port of the valve housing, in order to then cut the products under the influence of fluid pressure in a first cutting device; - rotating the valve body through a rotation angle to fluidly connect the inlet port of the valve housing via the fluid channel to a second outlet port of the valve housing; and

[0019] - passing the liquid stream containing the products from the inlet port of the valve housing, through the fluid channel of the valve body, to the second outlet port of the valve housing, in order to then cut the products under the influence of fluid pressure in a second cutting device.

[0020] In this manner, the above-mentioned advantages can be achieved. Further, especially advantageous embodiments of the invention are described in the dependent claims. The invention will now be further explained on the basis of an exemplary embodiment and the drawing. In the drawing:

[0021] Figure 1 schematically shows an example of a system for cutting products, known from the prior art;

[0022] Figure 2 shows a side view of part of a first embodiment of a system according to the invention;

[0023] Figure 3 shows a detail of the side view shown in Fig. 2, in a partially open view;

[0024] Figure 4 schematically shows an exploded top view of the embodiment shown in Fig. 2;

[0025] Figure 5 shows a perspective view of a part of the embodiment shown in Fig. 2;

[0026] Figure 6 shows a longitudinal section of the part of the embodiment shown in Fig. 5, in a first rotational position of a valve body;

[0027] Figure 7 shows a similar view to Fig. 6, with the valve body in a second rotational position;

[0028] Figure 8A shows a perspective view of the valve body, in an assembled condition, of the embodiment shown in Figures 2-7;

[0029] Figure 8B shows a view similar to Figure 8A of a disc-shaped body of the valve body; Figure 8C shows a similar view to Fig. 8A of a sliding body of the valve body;

[0030] Figure 9 shows a side view of part of a second embodiment of a system according to the invention;

[0031] Figure 10 shows a longitudinal section of part of the second embodiment of Fig. 9, with the valve body in a first rotational position;

[0032] Figure 11 shows a longitudinal section as in Figure 10, with the valve body in a second rotational position;

[0033] Figure 12 shows an isometric side view of the valve, in an assembled condition, of the second embodiment shown in Figure 9;

[0034] Figure 13 is an isometric rear view of the valve, in an assembled condition in a first rotational position of the valve body, of the embodiment shown in Figure 9;

[0035] Figure 14A shows a first isometric side view of the valve body of the valve shown in Fig. 12;

[0036] Figure 14B shows a similar isometric side view to Fig. 14A, from a different angle, with the valve body shown in a partially open view;

[0037] Figure 14C shows a similar isometric side view to Fig. 14A, from yet another angle, with the valve body shown in a partially disassembled state;

[0038] Figure 15A shows an isometric front view of a first sealing body of the valve body shown in Fig. 14;

[0039] Figure 15B shows an isometric rear view of the first sealing body of the valve body shown in Fig. 14;

[0040] Figure 15C schematically shows a front view of a first inflatable sealing of the valve body shown in Fig. 14;

[0041] Figure 15D shows a cross-sectional view along line XV-XV of Fig.

[0042] 15C, showing a part of the valve body;

[0043] Figure 16 A shows an isometric front view of a second sealing body of the valve body shown in Fig. 14; Figure 16B shows an isometric rear view of the second sealing body of the valve body shown in Fig. 14;

[0044] Figure 16C schematically shows a front view of a second inflatable sealing of the valve body shown in Fig. 14;

[0045] Figure 16D shows a cross-sectional view along line XVI-XVI of Fig.

[0046] 15C, showing a part of the valve body;

[0047] Figure 17 shows an isometric view of a part of the valve body shown in Fig. 14; and

[0048] Figure 18 shows an application of the embodiment shown in Fig. 9-17.

[0049] Like or corresponding features are indicated in this patent application with like or corresponding reference signs.

[0050] In Figure 1, an example of a system, known per se, for cutting products P is shown. The products P may, for instance, be (uncut) potatoes, but this is not requisite.

[0051] The system has at least a cutting device 4, provided with at least one knife S (e.g., made of steel).

[0052] The at least one knife S may, for instance, be part of a knife block which is provided with a number of knives or knife sections (e.g., a knife grid, or an assembly of knives) and is arranged to cut each supplied product P into parts in a particular pattern. Such a knife block may, for instance, be provided with an array of parallel disposed knives, to cut supplied products P each into thin product slices. In an alternative embodiment, such a knife block may be provided with knife sections disposed at right angles to each other (in particular, a knife grid), to cut supplied products P each into parts of angular cross section, for example, a square or rectangular cross section (for instance, to cut potatoes into fries). In other words: the at least one knife S is preferably part of a knife cutting block, comprising at least one array of mutually equidistantly arranged knife parts, which define, for example, rectangular knife passages. Further, liquid supply means 3, 50 are provided, arranged to supply the products P in a hquid stream to the at least one knife S of the cutting device 4, such that the products P, under influence of fluid pressure, are cut by the at least one knife S of cutting device 4 (i.e., the liquid supply means 3, 50 are arranged to force product P with a liquid stream against the at least one knife of the cutting device to cut the product). Preferably, water is used as a transport liquid by the hquid supply means. Said at least one knife S is, in particular, disposed parallel to a local conveying direction of the liquid stream, with a sharp knife edge on an upstream knife position for reception - and cutting - of products P supplied thereto, which will be clear to the skilled person.

[0053] Such a (water-)cutting system may, for instance, be provided with a tank 1 which is filled with the transport liquid W (in particular, water). The tank 1 is preferably connected to a pump 3 to supply the contents of the tank 1 (i.e., hquid W with product P) to a liquid channel 50, for example a transport tube.

[0054] Optionally, a product flow aligning system 6, known per se, may be provided, upstream of the cutting device 4. The aligning system 6 is preferably configured to have the products P, supplied via the liquid W, reaching the cutting device 4 one by one. Preferably, the product flow aligning system 6 is configured to bring the products P, supplied via the liquid W, each into an orientation desired for the cutting device 4. Preferably, to that end, the product aligning system 6 provides a narrowing 50b of the liquid channel 50, between an upstream part 50a and a downstream part 50c of the liquid channel 50. A diameter of the upstream part 50a of the hquid channel 50 may, for instance, be equal to or greater than twice a maximum outer dimension (e.g., diameter or cross section) of supplied products P. A diameter of the downstream part 50c of the hquid channel 50 (which is connected to the cutting device 4) may, for instance, be somewhat greater than, virtually equal to a maximum outer dimension (e.g., diameter or cross section) of supplied products P.

[0055] During use of the system shown in Fig. 1, uncut products P can be fed to the pump tank 1 (as indicated with arrow B). The products P are each, with liquid W, supplied by pump 3 to the cutting device 4 placed downstream, via the aligning system 6, and pressed against the at least one knife S to be cut by the knife S. The cut product Q may thereupon be separated from the liquid W, for instance with a separation system 5, known per se (e.g., a dewatering belt). The cut product Q may then be carried off for further processing (e.g., drying, a frying process, packaging, transport and / or the like), and the separated liquid W may, for instance, be treated (e.g., filtered) for reuse in the system.

[0056] Preferably, the complete process, from the liquid channel 50 up to and including the cutting device 4, and preferably also up to and including the separating system 5, is completely enclosed.

[0057] Figures 2-5 show a system for cutting products P, which differs from the system shown in Fig. 1 in that it is equipped with two cutting devices 4a, 4b, each equipped with one or more knifes S.

[0058] As known in the drawing, the two cutting devices 4a, 4b are located at different heights, preferably one 4a directly above the other 4b. The system is preferably equipped with a housing 2 in which the at least two cutting devices 4a, 4b are arranged. The housing 2 may, for instance, comprise a number of side walls 24a, 24b, 63, 64, 65 (e.g., substantially vertical side walls), a bottom wall 62, and a top wall 66, which walls 24a, 24b, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66 enclose a product processing space in which the two cutting devices 4a, 4b and, for example, associated local supply and discharge means (in particular respective product alignment means 38a, 38b, local supply channel parts, local discharge channel parts, optional liquid flow accelerator parts 37a, 37b, and optional liquid flow decelerator parts 39a, 39b) are arranged. A longitudinal side of the housing 2 is preferably provided with at least one lockable opening for access to the interior of the housing (from an external environment), i.e. access to the two cutting devices 4a, 4b. To this end, one or more of said side walls 24a, 24b may, for example, be configured as removable or swivelling panels or doors, which will be clear to the skilled person. Preferably, a removable or movable side wall 24a, 24b can be locked in a closed state (in which the removable or movable side wall 24a, 24b closes off the respective opening of the housing 2) by means of suitable (per se known) locking means, for example a lock and / or bolt. This prevents an operator from coming into contact with a cutting device that is in operation.

[0059] The housing 2 may be provided with two product flow inlets 33, 34 (in / near a first side wall 63) for receiving respective product flows (i.e., liquid flows with products P) and two outlets for cut products 35, 36 (in / near a second side wall 64) for discharging respective cut product flows (i.e., liquid flows with cut product Q). Said inlets 33, 34 may, for example, be located directly above each other (see Figures 3 and 4). The same applies to the two outlets 35, 36.

[0060] Valve means, for example one or more operable shut-off valves, may be provided to control product flows to the two cutting devices 4a, 4b, and / or to control cut product flows originating from the two cutting devices 4a, 4b. The example comprises valve means 25a, 25b arranged at each said outlet 35, 36 (see Fig. 2), in particular downstream of the cutting devices 4a, 4b and upstream of a tubular collection structure 20.

[0061] A bottom 62 of the housing 2 is preferably provided with a passage 62a (see Fig. 4) to allow cutting waste from a cutting process to pass through to a collection tray or discharge channel 70 extending beneath the housing 2.

[0062] As shown in Figure 3, the upper cutting device 4a may, for example, be connected to a respective upper product inlet 33 via an upper aligning system 38a, and an optional upper product flow accelerator tube 37a. The upper cutting device 4a can, for example, be connected to a respective upper product outlet 35 via an optional upper product flow delay tube 39a.

[0063] The lower cutting device 4b may, for example, be connected to a respective lower product inlet 34 via a lower aligning system 38b, and an optional lower product flow accelerator tube 37b. The lower cutting device 4b may, for example, be connected to a respective lower product outlet 36 via an optional lower product flow delay tube 39b.

[0064] It will be clear to the skilled person that each said product flow accelerator tube 37a, 37b is specifically configured to feed products P one by one during use to the respective cutting device 4a, 4b (and in particular to the respective aligning system 38a, 38b). Each aligning system 38a, 38 is specifically configured to align each product P in a desired orientation for the respective cutting device 4a, 4b.

[0065] As can be seen from Figure 4, the respective housing 2 can be configured to be relatively compact, in particular so as to provide a small footprint. A width H of the housing 2 (measured in the transverse horizontal direction, see Fig. 4) can, for example, be a maximum of 100 cm, in particular a maximum of 75 cm, more specifically a maximum of 50 cm. Said width H is, in particular, a distance between the outer surfaces of longitudinal walls 24a, 24b, 65 of the housing 2, which face away from each other.

[0066] A major advantage is that the system only needs to be accessible to an operator on one (long) side. According to a further elaboration, for example, two of the system housings 2 can essentially be placed against each other with their ‘backs’ (i.e., the longitudinal walls 65) facing each other, or at a short distance with those backs facing each other, which results in a particularly large space saving (and therefore cost saving) on a platform where the multiple cutting systems are placed next to each other. According to an alternative embodiment of this further elaboration, the two longitudinal walls 65 of the two housings 2 are at least partially integrated with each other and / or at least partially removed; in which case the two housings 2 may, for example, be integrated with each other, or a single housing may be used to accommodate four cutting devices: namely two series arranged side by side of cutting devices 4a, 4b arranged one above the other, each of which is connected to respective fluid supply means 11 with valve systems 12, 13.

[0067] The housing 2 is preferably attached to a surface G by means of a support structure 90, for example a suitable support frame, a series of support legs, and / or the like.

[0068] The system is optionally equipped with a tubular collection structure 20 positioned downstream of the at least two cutting devices 4a, 4b to collect cut product. An upstream portion of the collection structure 20 preferably comprises several tube sections 21a, 21b that are connected to respective outlets 35, 36 of two cutting devices 4a, 4b. Said tube sections 21a and 21b are preferably located at different heights, with one tube section 21a preferably located directly above the other tube section 21b (see Figures 2 and 4). As further shown in the drawing, each of these tube sections 21a, 21b may, for example, comprise a diverging tube section 21a, 21b, and is preferably integrally provided with a downstream converging tube section 22a, 22b. The two downstream tube sections 22a, 22b can, for example, jointly discharge into (i.e., be connected in fluid communication with) a common discharge tube 51 for discharging a cut product stream. A downstream point of the collection structure 20 (e.g., a central point 23 of convergence of said two downstream tube sections 22a, 22b) may, for example, be located at or near a first vertical level LI (i.e., height) that coincides with a height of said lower outlet 36 of the housing 2 (see Fig. 2). Furthermore, the lower tube sections 21b, 22b of the tubular collection structure 20 may, for example, extend substantially in a horizontal direction (in particular along said first vertical level LI) from the respective lower outlet 36 to the common discharge tube 51. The upper tube sections 21a, 22a of the tubular collection structure 20 may, for example, extend diagonally downward from the respective upper outlet 35 to the common discharge tube 51. A centerline of the upper tube sections 21a, 22a may, for example, enclose an angle cp with a horizontal plane that is less than 45 degrees and, for example, greater than 10 degrees, for example, an angle in the range of approximately 20-40 degrees (see Fig. 2).

[0069] According to a further elaboration, the collection structure can, for example, be equipped downstream with or connected to a single, known spreader (e.g., a flared tube with a braking effect) to transfer cut products to a product collector (e.g., a dewatering belt).

[0070] Instead of using such a collection structure 20, individual product collection means may also be provided at the two outlets 35, 36. In that case, the individual product collection means may comprise, for example, two separate spreaders or the like, which, for example, discharge above or next to each other onto a cut product collector (e.g., a dewatering belt).

[0071] The two outlets 35, 36 of the housing 2 may, for example, be located at equal distances from a horizontal plane located on a second vertical level L2. The same applies to the two outlets 33, 34 (see Fig. 3), and, for example, components installed between the inlets and outlets (i.e., the two cutting devices 4a, 4b). In particular, said second vertical level L2 is located below said first vertical level LI (see Fig. 2).

[0072] Liquid supply means 11 are provided, arranged to selectively supply the products P in a liquid stream to one of the at least two cutting devices 4a, 4b, such that the products P, under the influence of fluid pressure, are cut by the at least one knife S of a selected cutting device 4a, 4b. In particular, the fluid supply means 11 are provided with a valve body 12 rotatably mounted in a valve housing 13 (see Figures 5-7). According to a preferred embodiment, the valve housing 13 is made of metal or an alloy, for example steel or stainless steel. According to a further elaboration, the valve housing 13 can, for example, be composed of housing parts welded together, or manufactured via a casting process (i.e., a cast valve housing).

[0073] The valve housing 13 specifically encloses a valve chamber (i.e., interior space) in which the valve body 12 is rotatably mounted. The valve housing 13 comprises an inlet port K (which, after assembly, is connected to said fluid supply channel 50) for receiving the fluid flow, as well as at least two outlet ports Pl, P2 (in this case only two), each of which is in fluid connection with one respective cutting device 4a, 4b during operation. Each said port K, Pl, P2 of the valve housing 13 may, for example, comprise a cylindrical inner wall to delimit a respective liquid channel section. Preferably, said ports K, Pl, P2 of the valve housing 13 have a cross-section that is equal in dimensions, preferably a circular cross-section. As shown in the drawing, the ports K, Pl, P2 can each be equipped with a connecting flange 19 to connect the ports to flanges of supply and discharge tubes (e.g., via bolt connections, see Fig. 5-7).

[0074] In particular, the valve housing 13 and valve body are configured to discharge a liquid flow (containing products) supplied via the inlet port K from the first outlet port Pl in a first direction R1 out of the valve housing 13 (see Fig. 6), and to discharge the liquid flow (containing products) from the second outlet port P2 in a second direction R2 out of the valve housing 13 (see Fig. 7). Said first direction R1 and second direction R2 preferably diverge, viewed in a virtual vertical plane, and form, for instance, an angle 0 in the range of 20-90 degrees (see Fig. 6), for example an angle 0 of up to 60 degrees.

[0075] As shown in the drawing, the two outlet ports Pl, P2 are connected via two respective connecting tubes 31, 32 to the respective inlets 33, 34 of the housing 2 of the cutting devices 4a, 4b. The two connecting tubes 31, 32 are arranged in a particularly mirror-symmetrical manner relative to a virtual horizontal plane located on a second vertical level L2. For example, the first (upper) connecting tube 31 is located directly above the second (lower) connecting tube 32 (see Fig. 4, 6). Each tube pipe 31, 32 preferably comprises an upstream tube section 31a, 32a that is aligned with the respective outlet port Pl, P2 of the valve housing 13. For example, the centerlines of the upstream tube sections 31a, 32a of the two connecting tubes 31, 32 may enclose an angle 0 in the range of 20-90 degrees (see Fig.

[0076] 6), for example an angle 0 of up to 60 degrees. Each connecting tube 31, 32 preferably comprises a downstream tube section 31b, 32b, which tube sections 31b, 32b are connected to respective inlets 33, 34 of the housing 2 of the cutting devices 4a, 4b, and which preferably each extend in a horizontal direction. Furthermore, each connecting tube 31, 32 preferably comprises a bend section 31c, 32c that connects the respective upstream tube sections 31a, 32a to the respective downstream tube sections 31b, 32b (see Fig. 6). As shown in the drawing, the ends of said connecting tubes 31, 32 can, for example, be equipped with connecting flanges to connect the tubes to the other components 13, 33, 34 of the system, for example by bolting them together.

[0077] As further shown in the drawing, said valve body 12 includes a fluid channel 12a that is configured to connect the inlet port K to a first outlet port Pl of the two outlet ports in a first rotational position of the valve body 12. The first rotational position is shown in Figures 3 and 6. In a second rotational position, shown in Figure 7, the valve body 12 connects the inlet port K to the second outlet port P2 via the fluid channel 12a. The valve body 12 may, for example, be a substantially cylindrical valve body 12, for example with a substantially cylindrical outer circumference (see also Figure 8A).

[0078] The valve body 12 is rotatable relative to the valve housing 13, in particular about a horizontal axis X, wherein the horizontal axis X preferably coincides with an axial centerline of the valve body 12. Said horizontal axis X may, for example, coincide with a said second vertical level L2. As can further be seen from the drawing, the two outlet ports Pl and P2 of the valve housing 13 are located at different heights, specifically directly above each other. It should be noted that the axis of rotation of the valve body 12 can extend in any direction and can, for example, be a horizontal axis, a vertical axis, or an axis of rotation extending at an angle to a horizontal plane (in the latter cases, the connecting tubes 31, 32 extending from the valve housing 13 to the cutting device housing 2 may be suitably adapted to provide respective fluid connections, which will be apparent to those skilled in the art).

[0079] Preferably, the fluid channel 12a of the valve body 12 defines / contains a (slight) channel bend, for example a bend of less than 45 degrees, in particular a bend of up to 30 degrees, and for example a bend of at least 10 degrees. The fluid channel 12a of the valve body (i.e., said channel bend) extends in particular between a first channel end El and a second channel end E2. In the first rotational position of the valve body 12 (see Fig. 6), the first channel end El of the channel 12a is connected to said inlet port K, and the second channel end E2 of the channel 12a is connected to said first outlet port Pl. In the second rotational position (see Fig. 7), the second channel end E2 of the valve body 12 is connected to the inlet port K, and the first channel end El is connected to said second outlet port P2.

[0080] In the first embodiment, the fluid channel 12a of the valve body 12 has, in particular, a constant (preferably circular) cross-section. In this way, a reliable fluid connection between valve ports K, Pl, and P2 can be achieved at relatively high product flow rates, and damage to products P flowing through the valve 12 and 13 can be prevented. The example shown in Figures 9-18 features a fluid channel 112a that does not have a constant cross-section (see below).

[0081] The valve body 12 of the example shown in Figures 2-8 can, in particular, be rotated from the first rotational position to the second rotational position by an angle of more than 90 degrees (about a said horizontal axis X), specifically more than 135 degrees. Preferably, the valve body is relatively lightweight. The rotatable valve body 12 may, for example, have a mass of approximately 20 kg or less, for example approximately 14 kg, and may preferably consist substantially of plastic.

[0082] For the purpose of rotating the valve body 12, the system is equipped with a suitable valve actuator 18. A pneumatic valve actuator 18 is preferred. A pneumatic valve actuator 18 can provide a powerful and reliable drive, enabling the valve body 12 to be rotated relatively quickly between the two valve positions. The actuator 18 is specifically configured to switch the valve body 12 between the two rotational positions within 1 second.

[0083] Optionally, the valve housing 13 may be provided with an additional liquid inlet port M on its upper side for receiving a liquid (e.g., a flushing liquid, in particular water). A substantially cylindrical outer surface of the valve body 12 may face the additional liquid inlet port M in both the first rotational position and the second rotational position of that valve body 12 (see Figures 6 and 7). As can be seen from Figure 5, said liquid inlet port M can, for example, be closed off by a removable sealing body, for example a detachable plug or cap PL.

[0084] The valve housing 13 is preferably equipped with an additional liquid outlet port N at the bottom for discharging liquid. A said (substantially cylindrical) outer surface of the valve body 12 may face the additional liquid outlet port M in both the first rotational position and the second rotational position of that valve body 12.

[0085] As can be seen from the drawing, a centerline of said inlet port K of the valve housing 13 can, for example, extend in a horizontal direction and is preferably connected to a horizontal section 50a of a supply tube 50 (see Fig. 2). The centerline of said inlet port K of the valve housing may be located in particular on said second vertical level L2 (see Fig. 6). Preferably, the valve body 12 is composed of at least two (in particular central or disc-shaped) bodies 15, 16 (see Figures 8A, 8B, 8C) that define the fluid channel, wherein the two disc-shaped bodies 15, 16 are preferably (in the first embodiment) provided with sliding nozzles (also referred to as wear nozzles) 17 at ends of the fluid channel 12a that face away from each other.

[0086] Figure 8B shows a first 15 of the two disc-shaped bodies 15, 16; the other disc-shaped body 16 may be identically shaped. Each disc-shaped body 15, 16 is, in particular, a cylindrical body with a cylindrical outer surface 15a. Opposing sides of the disc-shaped bodies 15, 16 each comprise a recess 15b to provide the valve fluid channel 12a (at least a portion of the channel 12a extending between the sliding nozzles 17). Furthermore, the cylindrical outer surfaces 15a of both disc-shaped bodies 15, 16 are provided with recesses 15c facing away from each other for receiving the sliding nozzles 17. Each of these recesses 15c may, for example, be provided with a coupling structure, for example a slot 15d, for receiving a matching coupling structure (in this case a coupling ring 17c) of a sliding nozzle 17. In the example, each sliding nozzle-receiving recess 15c of a disc-shaped body 15, 16 has a preferably flat bottom which, after assembly, fits tightly against an opposing (preferably flat) inner wall 17d of a respective sliding nozzle 17.

[0087] In addition, the disc-shaped bodies 15, 16 are preferably provided with one or more passages 15e for receiving attachment means 14 to attach the disc-shaped bodies 15, 16 to each other in an assembled state. Opposing sides of the disc-shaped bodies 15, 16 may, for example, be provided with respective recesses 16y to receive parts of such attachment means 14 (e.g., bolt parts and bolt heads) in a countersunk manner.

[0088] In addition, the sides of the central / disc-shaped bodies 15, 16 that face away from each other are preferably each provided with a central coupling means 16x, for example a shaft, shaft bushing, bearing, or bearing part, in order to connect those bodies rotatably to engaging (not shown) coupling means of the valve housing 12 of one or more passages 15e for receiving attachment means 14 to attach the disc-shaped bodies 15, 16 to each other in an assembled state. Such coupling means 16x may, for example, be coupled to a said valve actuator 18 during use to cause rotation of the valve body 12.

[0089] After assembly, the sliding nozzles 17 are arranged in the recesses 15c of the two disc-shaped bodies 15, 16, which face away from each other. In particular, the sliding nozzles 17 may be configured to connect the discshaped bodies 15, 16 to each other, or at least to keep them in an assembled state after assembly. Alternatively or in addition, said above-mentioned attachment means 14 (e.g., bolts) may be provided to connect the discshaped bodies 15, 16 to each other.

[0090] As can be seen from the drawing, the sliding nozzles 17 preferably protrude slightly in a radial direction relative to the cylindrical outer surfaces of the two disc-shaped bodies 15, 16. Furthermore, each of the sliding nozzles 17 comprises a central passage 17b (with a circular crosssection) to delimit the end parts of the valve fluid channel 12a. As shown in the drawing, these central passages 17b are surrounded on the outside by respective sliding edges 17a of the corresponding sliding nozzles 17.

[0091] The sliding nozzles 17 each preferably comprise a (convex) sliding edge 17a facing the inner side of the valve housing 13, which fits closely to that inner side, in particular to achieve a substantially liquid-tight connection between an outer side of the valve body 12 and the opposite inner side of the valve housing 13, in each of the two shown rotational positions of the valve body 12. A remaining portion of an outer circumference of an outer side of the valve body 12, which extends between the two sliding nozzles 17, may, for example, delimit a gap 45 with an opposite inner side of the housing 13. In other words: preferably, an outer side of the valve body 12 only touches an opposing inner side of the housing 13 via said sliding nozzles 17 located at the channel ends El, E2, via respective edges 17a, (in order to be slidably mounted in the housing 13 via those sliding nozzles 17). This allows very low or minimal friction between the valve body and the valve housing to be achieved.

[0092] Preferably, the sliding nozzles 17 (which are located at respective ends El, E2 of the valve fluid channel 12a or which contain those ends El, E2) are made of a different material than other parts of the respective discshaped bodies 15, 16. The sliding nozzles 17 may, for example, each consist of a relatively soft plastic, for example a relatively soft HMPE (high molecular weight polyethylene), in particular a plastic that is substantially softer than a material from which the disc-shaped bodies 15, 16 themselves are made. Said HMPE may comprise, for example, HMPE500, i.e., HMPE with a molecular weight of approximately 500,000 grams / mol, which will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0093] The two central / disc-shaped bodies 15, 16 may, for example, be made of a relatively high- density plastic (e.g., a significantly higher density than the material of the sliding nozzles 17), for example, a relatively hard HMPE (high-molecular-weight polyethylene), in particular HMPE 1000. According to a further elaboration, the molecular weight of the material of the disc-shaped bodies 15, 16 is at least approximately 2x (twice) the molecular weight of the material of the sliding nozzles 17.

[0094] This prevents the sliding nozzles 17 from ‘running in’ on the valve housing 13 (causing wear on the housing and less or no wear on the sliding nozzles). In particular, wear on the valve housing 13 can be prevented or substantially reduced. Preferably, the sliding nozzles 17 are configured to be interchangeable, so that a worn sliding nozzle 17 can be replaced by a new sliding nozzle 17. For the purpose of sliding nozzle replacement, the valve housing 13 is preferably configured to be removable or dismountable, for example with one or more detachable side walls 13a (see Figure 5) that delimit the interior of the valve housing (in which the valve body 12 is arranged in a rotatable manner). Preferably, the system is equipped with a system controller C (shown schematically in Fig. 2), which can be configured to monitor the liquid flow and / or a cutting process performed by a cutting device 4a, 4b during use, for example on the basis of a measuring signal emitted by a sensor 9. The sensor 9 may, for example, comprise a flow meter and / or pressure gauge or the like, arranged to measure a flow rate and / or pressure of a liquid flowing through a tube of the system. In the example, product flow supply channel 50 is equipped with such a sensor 9; it will be clear that one or more such sensors may also be installed at other positions in the system.

[0095] Said controller C can be implemented in various ways and may, for example, comprise a computer, digital data processor, suitable hardware, software, and / or the like, which will be clear to those skilled in the art. The controller C can be connected to other system components (for example said valve actuator 18 and sensor 9, and / or a fluid source AS mentioned below) in various ways, for example via unillustrated, per se known wired and / or wireless signal connections, for the purpose of controlling those other system components and / or receiving data (e.g., measurement data) from those system components.

[0096] Preferably, the controller C is configured to control the valve 12, 13 depending on a measuring signal emitted by the sensor 9. The controller C may, for example, be configured to automatically change the position of the valve body 12 (between a first and second valve position) if a liquid pressure and / or liquid flow detected by the sensor 9 reaches or exceeds a predetermined threshold value (in particular a threshold value related to a blockage and / or other problem in a part of the system).

[0097] Use of the system shown in Figures 2-8 comprises, in particular, a method for cutting said products P, the method comprising passing a liquid stream containing the products P from the inlet port K of the valve housing 13, via the fluid channel 12a of a valve body 12 arranged in the valve housing 13, to the first outlet port Pl of the valve housing 13, in order to then cut the products P under the influence of liquid pressure in the first cutting device 4a. A corresponding valve position is shown in Fig. 6.

[0098] The valve body 12 is preferably rotated automatically through a said angle of rotation (for example, an angle of more than 90 degrees) in order to fluidly connect the inlet port K of the valve housing 13 via the fluid channel 12a to the second outlet port P2 of the valve housing 13, in particular under the influence of the controller C and, for example, depending on a said sensor signal. The liquid flow containing the products P can then be passed from the inlet port K of the valve housing 13, through the fluid channel 12a of the valve body 12, to the second outlet port P2 of the valve housing 13, in order to then cut the products P under the influence of fluid pressure in the second cutting device 4b. A rotation time of the valve body 12, to rotate that body 12 between the first rotational position over said rotation angle to the second rotational position, is preferably less than 1 second. In this way, the system can quickly switch between cutting devices 4a and 4b which have to be used to cut the products P.

[0099] The method preferably comprises monitoring the liquid flow and / or a cutting process performed by a said cutting device 4a, 4b (e.g., by sensor 9), while emitting a respective measuring signal that can be processed by a system controller C. Depending on said measuring signal, the valve body 12 can be automatically rotated through said angle of rotation.

[0100] Preferably, the liquid flow containing products is discharged from the first outlet port Pl in the first direction R1 out of the valve housing 13 when the valve body 12 is in the first rotational position, wherein the liquid flow containing products is discharged from the second outlet port P2 in the second direction R1 out of the valve housing 13 when the valve body 12 is in the second rotational position, wherein said first direction R1 and second direction R2 diverge when viewed in a virtual vertical plane, and for example enclose an angle in the range of 5-45 degrees. The present system and method require a relatively small process area, in particular footprint. Preferably, the system (e.g., the controller C) generates a warning signal (e.g., a signal that can be observed by a bystander, a light signal, and / or an audible signal), for example, depending on a said sensor signal, as soon as or when valve body rotation takes place or needs to take place. Based on such a warning signal, a user can, for example, check why a valve position is changed and take further action (in particular, comprising removing a blockage in the system and / or replacing a cutting device).

[0101] Figures 9-17 show a second embodiment, which, according to a first innovative aspect, differs from the example shown in Figures 2-8 in that the valve body 112 can be rotated in particular from the first rotational position (see Fig. 10) to the second rotational position (see Fig. 11) over an angle of less than 90 degrees (about said horizontal axis X), in particular an angle smaller than 60 degrees, for example an angle in the range of approximately 50-55 degrees. To this end, the valve body 112 may, for example, be configured to define a fluid channel 112a, the first end El' of which — viewed in the circumferential direction of the valve body 112 — is extended relative to the second end E2' (see Figures 14-16). This will be explained in more detail below.

[0102] According to a second innovative aspect, which can be combined with said first aspect (although this is not necessary), the valve body 112 is equipped with inflatable seals 80a, 80b to achieve a substantially liquid-tight connection between a (circular-cylindrical) outer side of the valve body 112 and the opposing (circular-cylindrical) inner side of the valve housing 113 (around each of the respective ends El', E2' of the respective fluid channel 112a), at each of the two shown rotational positions of the valve body 112. Air can, for example, be used as an inflation medium to inflate the seals (pneumatically), but this is not necessary. The inflatable seals 80a, 80b may, for example, be tubular and / or ring-shaped, and may in particular be inflatable air tubes or inflatable sealing strips (known per se). The inflatable seals 80a, 80b are preferably made of flexible (in particular elastic) material (e.g., rubber or an elastomer). The seals 80a, 80b are incorporated in respective (annular) grooves 217a, 217b which are formed in the outer contour (i.e. the cylindrical outer surface) of the valve body 112. Each inflatable seal 80a, 80b can, for example, enclose a fluid chamber AC, which fluid chamber can be connected to an external fluid source AS (shown schematically in Fig. 9) via respective fluid ports 83a, 83b of those inflatable seals. The fluid source AS comprises, for example, a compressed air source, fluid pump, and / or the like, which will be clear to those skilled in the art, and may be connected to the valve body 112 via a suitable fluid supply line 85 (shown in part in Fig.

[0103] 9) for the purpose of pressurizing and inflating the inflatable seals 80a, 80b (by supplying a fluid inflation medium thereto). Preferably, each of the seals 80a, 80b is inflatable against its own spring force, from an initial state (i.e., a release state) to a radially expanded state, in particular such that the seals 80a, 80b (under the influence of that spring force) each shrink back to the initial state when the inflation pressure supplied by said inflation medium is removed (e.g., when the pressure medium supply from the fluid source AS is switched off). Optionally, the system (e.g., fluid source AS and / or fluid supply line 85) is equipped with a vent valve Vpr (e.g., controlled by the central controller C), to allow inflation medium to escape from the fluid chambers AC if seals 80a, 80b need to be returned to their initial state.

[0104] Preferably, the fluid source AS can be controlled by said system controller C (for example, via an internal control or communication connection, which will be clear to the skilled person), in such a way that the system controller C can switch on the fluid source AS for the purpose of inflating (radially expanding) the seals 80a, 80b, and, for example, switch off the fluid source AS at a time when the seals 80a, 80b need to be returned to their respective initial states.

[0105] According to a further embodiment, the valve body 112 may be mounted on (i.e., provided with) a hollow rotor shaft 79, which contains a fluid channel 81 that is in fluid communication with the fluid supply ports 83a, 83b of the inflatable seals 80a, 80b via fluid channels 82 integrated in valve body 112. The rotor shaft 79, or at least the rotor shaft channel 81, may be connected to said fluid supply line 85 for connection to said fluid source AS.

[0106] Figures 15C, 15D show a first inflatable seal 80a, which allows the cylindrical outer circumference of the valve body 112 to connect in a liquid-tight manner to the opposing inner side of the valve housing 113 (around a first end El' of the channel 112a) when the seal 80a is in an inflated state. Figure 15D shows an inflated state of the first seal 80a. The seal 80a can, for example, be inflatable in a radial direction over a distance F of at least 1 mm, and preferably at least 4 mm, outwards from a respective groove 217s (in particular by supplying inflation medium through said fluid source AS), in order to achieve a desired liquid-tight connection to the valve housing (at the first channel end El').

[0107] The same applies to the second inflatable seal 80b, which provides a liquid seal around the second end E2' of the valve body channel 112a. See Figures 16C, 16D, which show that the second inflatable seal 80b allows the cylindrical outer circumference of the valve body 112 to connect in a liquid-tight manner to the opposing inner side of the valve housing 113 (around the second end E2' of the channel 112a) when the seal 80b is in an inflated state. Figure 16D shows the direction of extension of the second seal 80b with arrow G. The second seal 80b can, for example, be inflatable in a radial direction over a previously mentioned distance F of at least 1 mm, and preferably at least 4 mm, outwards from a respective groove 217t (in particular by supplying inflation medium through said fluid source AS), in order to achieve a desired liquid-tight connection to the valve housing (at the second channel end E2').

[0108] Each said groove 217s, 217t for receiving a respective inflatable seal 80a, 80b may be provided in the valve body 112 in different ways. In the embodiment, the valve body 112 comprises two integral (opposing) sealing bodies 117s, 117t, with opposing circular arc-shaped outer surfaces 317s, 317t in which the two ends El', E2' of the valve body channel 112a are located / extend. Said circular arc-shaped outer surfaces 317s, 317t of said sealing bodies 117s, 117t are provided with the grooves 217s, 217t with respective seals 80a, 80b; the circular arc-shaped outer surfaces 317s, 317t extend in particular concentrically with respect to each other and concentrically with respect to the axis of rotation of the valve body 112.

[0109] According to a further elaboration (see Figures 9-17), the valve body 112 of the second embodiment may, for example, be composed of two central (e.g., disc-shaped) bodies 115, 116 that define the fluid channel 112a (e.g., analogous to the example shown in Figures 2-8), wherein the two central bodies 115, 116 are preferably provided with respective inflatable seals 80a, 80b at ends of the fluid channel 112a that face away from each other. In particular, the two central bodies 115, 116 are equipped with said sealing bodies 117s, 117t, which face away from each other and contain the respective seals 80a, 80b. Each of the central bodies 115, 116 may, for example, be provided with mounting surfaces 98 facing away from each other (see Figures 14A, 14Cc, 17) on which the two sealing bodies 117s, 117t are mounted (for example, by means of suitable attachment means 99, for example bolt connections 99). Bores 98a in a said mounting surface 98 for receiving (and engaging) such attachment means 99 are shown in Fig. 14C, 17. In addition, the central bodies 115, 116 are preferably provided with one or more passages 115e for receiving attachment means 114 to attach the central bodies 115, 116 to each other in an assembled state. Said sealing bodies 117s, 117t (which contain the inflatable seals 80a, 80b) can be configured in various ways, for example, each consisting of one or more parts. As shown in Figures 14C, 15B, 16B, such a sealing body 117s, 117t may, for example, be a composite body, comprising, for example, a base part 117s3, 117t3 provided with a mounting flange with a central collar, which base part 117s3, 117t3 can be mounted on another part of the valve body. The first sealing body 117b comprises, for example, two side parts 117sl, 117s2 that can be mounted on the base part 117s3 and together (with edges facing each other) define the groove 217a, 217b to accommodate the respective inflatable first seal 80a, 80b. Said grooves 217a, 217b may extend in particular onto said collars of said base parts 117s3, 117t3. The second sealing body 117t comprises, for example, two side parts 117t 1, 117t2 that can be mounted on the base part 117t3 and together (with edges facing each other) define the groove 217t to accommodate the respective inflatable second seal 80b.

[0110] Additional attachment means (e.g., bolt connections) 95 may be provided, for example, to mount the two side parts 117bl, 117b2, 117tl, 117t2 on the corresponding base part 117s3, 117t3 (see Figs. 14A, 14C).

[0111] In addition, the sides of the central bodies 15, 16 facing away from each other are preferably each provided with a central coupling means 116x, for example a shaft, shaft bushing, bearing or bearing part, in order to connect those bodies rotatably to engaging means (not shown) of the valve housing 112 (on one side) and the hollow driven shaft 79 (on the other side) (see Figs. 14A, 14B, in which the coupling means 16x is coupled to the hollow shaft 79 of a respective valve actuator 118).

[0112] As further shown in the drawing, said sealing bodies 117s, 117t, which face away from each other, can be configured to connect the central bodies 115, 116 to each other, or at least to keep them in an assembled state after assembly. Alternatively or additionally, the attachment means 141 mentioned above (e.g., bolts) may be provided to connect the central bodies 115, 116 to each other.

[0113] An additional advantageous aspect of the invention provides a valve body 112, whose fluid channel 112a is configured to establish a fluid connection with the inlet port K of the valve housing 113 in any rotational position of the valve body 112 relative to the valve housing 113 (including an intermediate position between the first and second rotational positions, which is not shown), and wherein the fluid channel 112a is configured to be in fluid connection with at least part of one of said outlet ports Pl, P2 (in particular one or both of them, depending on the rotational position of the valve body 112) in every rotational position of the valve body 112 relative to the valve housing 113. In other words: the fluid channel 112a is specifically configured to connect the inlet port K only to the first outlet port Pl when the valve body 112 is in its first rotational position, and to connect inlet port K only to the second outlet port P2 when the valve body 112 is in its second rotational position. Furthermore, the fluid channel 112a is configured to connect the inlet port K to both a part of the first outlet port Pl and a part of the second outlet port P2 at an intermediate position (not shown) between the first and second rotational positions of valve body 112 (in particular during the rotation of the valve body 112 relative to the valve housing 113).

[0114] To this end, the first end El' of the fluid channel 112a defined by the valve body 112 is preferably extended in the circumferential direction of the valve body 112 relative to the inlet port K (and relative to a second end E2' of the fluid channel 112a). This extension (in the circumferential direction) is particularly such that the first end El' of the fluid channel 112a (uninterruptedly) remains in fluid communication with the inlet port K of the valve housing during a rotational movement of the valve body 112 (between a respective first and second rotational position thereof). In addition, the second end E2' of the channel 112a can remain continuously, uninterruptedly, in fluid communication with at least one of the outlet ports Pl, P2 (depending on the rotational position of the valve body). In this way, a hydraulic shock (water hammer) when changing the valve position can be effectively counteracted (in which case the supply of liquid W or product flow to the inlet port K is not interrupted when changing the valve position).

[0115] Furthermore, only a relatively limited rotation is required (preferably less than 90 degrees, and in particular a maximum angle of 60 degrees, for example an angle in the range of approximately 50-55 degrees) to switch liquid flow between one outlet port Pl and another outlet port P2. Such a limited rotation can be performed more quickly by the valve actuator 118 than the larger rotation required in the first embodiment (shown in Fig.

[0116] 2-8).

[0117] In particular, said fluid channel 112a of the valve body 112 extends concentrically around a central (virtual) straight longitudinal axis LA (see Fig. 10) between a first channel end El and a second channel end E2, wherein said central longitudinal axis LA coincides, for example, with a center point of the first outlet port Pl in the first rotational position of the valve body 112 (see Fig. 10) and wherein said central longitudinal axis LA coincides with a center point of the second outlet port P2 in the second rotational position of the valve body 112.

[0118] With reference to Figures 10 and 11, said valve body 112 is preferably configured to connect the channel 112a defined thereby to the inlet port K of the valve housing 113 in both the first rotational position (see Fig. 10) and the second rotational position (see Fig. 9, 11) of that valve body 112. The valve body 112 is furthermore configured to connect the channel 112a defined thereby to the outlet port Pl of the valve housing 113 in said first rotational position (see Fig. 10), and to connect that channel 112 to the second outlet port P2 of the valve housing 113 in the second rotational position (Fig. 9, 11) of the valve body.

[0119] Furthermore, the fluid channel 112a of the valve body 112 can be limited (defined) on both sides at the first channel end El' by two parallel arc-shaped channel edge parts EK (see Fig. 15A), the curvature of which is concentric with the axis of rotation of the valve body 112 (said edge parts EK extend along the circular cylindrical circumference of the valve body 112). Said two parallel (arc-shaped) channel edge parts EK connect at their top ends, for example, to a double-curved upper edge ET and lower edge EB of the first channel end El', wherein the double-curved upper edge ET and lower edge EB of the first channel end El' each comprise a second curvature which is also concentric with the axis of rotation of the valve body 112 (seen in side view). A first curvature of the upper edge ET of the first channel end El' is preferably substantially concentric with a downstream center point Kc of the inlet port K of the valve housing 113 when the valve body is in the first rotational position (see Fig. 10). A first curvature of the lower edge EB of the first channel end El' is preferably substantially concentric with a downstream center point Kc of the inlet port K of the valve housing 113 when the valve body is in the second rotational position (see Fig. 11).

[0120] The respective groove 217s with the first inflatable seal 80a (if present) incorporated therein extends along these channel edge parts EK (and associated upper and lower edges EB, ET). The groove 217s with the first inflatable seal 80a is also provided with respective parallel arc-shaped parts that are concentric with the axis of rotation of the valve body 112. The two parallel arc-shaped parts of the first inflatable seal 80a are designated with 80al, 80al in Fig. 15C. Furthermore, the grooves 217s with the first inflatable seal 80a are preferably each provided with respective doublecurved upper and lower parts (each - seen in side view - with a second curvature that is concentric with the axis of rotation of the valve body 112, and wherein each upper curved part of the respective groove 217s and first inflatable seal 80a has a first curvature that is substantially concentric with the downstream center point Kc of the inlet port K of the valve housing 113 when the valve body is in the first rotational position, and wherein the lower curved part of the respective groove 217s and first inflatable seal 80a has a first curvature that is substantially concentric with the downstream center point Kc of the inlet port K of the valve housing 113 when the valve body is in the second rotational position).

[0121] In addition, the fluid channel 112a of the valve body 112 can be limited on both sides at the second channel end E2' by a substantially (in particular double-curved) circular channel edge ER (which edge ER extends on the circular cylindrical circumference of the valve body 112 and, seen in side view, has a curvature that is concentric with the axis of rotation of the valve body 112). The respective groove 217t with the second inflatable seal 80b (if present) incorporated therein extends along this channel edge ER (and the groove 217t with the second inflatable seal 80b are in particular also substantially -in particular double-curved- circular, wherein the groove 217t and second seal 80b extend on the circular cylindrical circumference of the valve body 112, and, seen in side view, have a curvature that is concentric with the axis of rotation of the valve body 112).

[0122] As further shown in the drawing, the fluid channel 112a of the valve body 112 is preferably provided with a gradually decreasing flow area (i.e., channel width), seen in a flow direction from the first channel end El' to the second channel end E2' (i.e. along said central straight longitudinal axis LA of the channel 112a). In particular, said flow area of the fluid channel 112a at the first channel end El' is at least twice as large as the flow area at the downstream second channel end E2'.

[0123] Seen in a central longitudinal cross-section (see Figure 10), an upper inner edge 112t of the fluid channel 112a may be curved in such a way that an upstream point of that upper edge 112t connects to an upper (downstream) point Kt of the inlet port K. A downstream point of the upper edge 112t of the fluid channel 112a (i.e., a point in / from the channel end E2’) can connect to an upper point Pit of the first outlet port Pl, in the first rotational position of the valve body 112. Seen in a central longitudinal cross-section (see Figure 11), a lower inner edge 112b of the fluid channel 112a may be curved in such a way that an upstream point of that lower edge 112b connects to a lower (downstream) point Kt of the inlet port K. A downstream point of the lower edge 112b of the fluid channel 112a (i.e., a point in / from the channel end E2’) can connect to a lower point P2b of the second outlet port P2, in the second rotational position of the valve body 112.

[0124] Furthermore, said (virtual) central longitudinal axis LA of the fluid channel 112a can intersect the valve housing 113 at or near a lower point Kb of the inlet port (see Fig. 10) in the first rotational position of the valve body 112. In addition, said (virtual) central longitudinal axis LA of the fluid channel 112a can intersect the valve housing 113 at or near an upper (downstream) point Kt of the inlet port (see Fig. 11) in the second rotational position of the valve body 112.

[0125] As can be seen from the drawing (Fig. 10), an upstream end of said lower inner edge 112b of the fluid channel 112a is located at a distance from the inlet port K (for example, near, but not yet opposite, an optional fluid outlet port N), in said first rotational position of the valve body 112.

[0126] As can be seen from the drawing (Fig. 11), an upstream end of said upper inner edge 112t of the fluid channel 112a is located at a distance from the inlet port K (for example, near, but not yet opposite, an optional fluid inlet port M), in said second rotational position of the valve body 112.

[0127] Use of the embodiment shown in Figures 9-17 comprises, in particular, a method for cutting said products P, the method comprising passing a liquid stream containing the products P from the inlet port K of the valve housing 113, via the fluid channel 112a of a valve body 112 arranged in the valve housing 113, to the first outlet port Pl of the valve housing 113, in order to then cut the products P under the influence of liquid pressure in the first cutting device 4a (analogous to the first embodiment). When the valve body 112 is in a desired valve position, the inflatable seals 80a, 80b can each be kept in an inflated state (e.g., by supplying a pressure medium to the respective chambers AC, in particular provided by the respective fluid pump AS via said fluid line 85). The inflated seals 80a, 80b can provide a reliable and powerful seal and prevent liquid supplied via the inlet port K from reaching the (valve) gap 45 between the valve body 112 and the valve housing 113. When a change of the valve position is desired (i.e., a rotation of the valve body 112 from a first position to a second position, or vice versa), the inflatable seals 80a, 80b can each be brought to respective initial states, in particular by allowing inflation medium to escape from the respective fluid chambers AC (e.g., by switching off fluid pump AS and / or by opening the respective vent valve Vpr, in particular under the control of system controller C). Once the inflatable seals 80a, 80b have each deflated (automatically), the system controller can activate the valve actuator 118 to change the valve position, and then reinflate the seals 80a, 80b to create the respective liquid-tight connections in the valve. In this case too, the system can switch quickly (under the control of the system controller C) between cutting devices 4a, 4b to be used to cut the products P: a rotation time of the valve body 112, to rotate that body 112 between the first rotational position over said rotation angle to the second rotational position (by the valve actuator 118), is preferably less than 1 second. The corresponding period during which the two inflatable seals 80a, 80b are in a non-inflated release position (in particular under the control of the system controller C), and during which the valve body 118 rotates, is preferably no more than 2 seconds. For this purpose, the inflatable seals 80a, 80b can preferably each be brought from an inflated state into a release position within 0.5 seconds.

[0128] Furthermore, the valve body 112 of the second embodiment only needs to perform a relatively small rotational movement over said angle of less than 90 degrees, in particular an angle of up to 60 degrees, for example an angle in the range of approximately 50-55 degrees. This offers considerable time savings in terms of valve switching speed.

[0129] Furthermore, the release position of seals 80a, 80b leads to the release of the gap 45 between the valve body 112 and valve housing 113, and thus to very low valve rotation friction.

[0130] In addition, the inflatable seals 80a, 80b can provide optimal (liquid-tight) leak tightness at the valve inlets and outlets.

[0131] Figure 18 shows an additional advantageous use of the second embodiment. In this case, the valve body 112 is in one of the respective first and second rotational positions, and during a flushing period, for example a flushing period of more than 2 seconds, and preferably of at least 5 or 10 seconds (and for example no more than 20 seconds), a liquid flow LF is supplied to the inlet port K of the valve while the two inflatable seals 80a, 80b are not in the inflated states (but in respective release states). This allows the supplied liquid to flow along the first seal 80a into the valve gap 45 and to reach, via that valve gap 45 along the second seal 80b, the outlet port (Pl) located there (which outlet port would be closed if the second seals 80b were inflated). The valve gap 45 thus functions in particular as a bypass channel to provide a fluid bypass flow along the seals 80a, 80b. In this way, a part of the supplied liquid LF can serve as flushing liquid Z, which flushing liquid Z flows through the corresponding valve outlet port (Pl) and connecting tube (31) to flow into the corresponding inlet (33) of the downstream housing 2 of the cutting devices in order to flush a corresponding (non-active) part of the system. Such flushing can, for example, flush out any product residues from an inactive part of the system. A respective liquid flush flow is indicated by arrows Z in Fig. 18. Meanwhile, a major portion of the liquid LF supplied to the valve can be supplied through the valve to the other inlet (34) of the downstream housing 2 of the cutting devices, via the other valve outlet port (P2) associated with the respective rotational position of valve. Said system controller C may, for example, be configured to automatically perform such a flushing period, whether or not under the influence of operation by system operating personnel (for example, using a user interface of the system controller - not shown-, which may or may not be operable in a manual way). Preferably, one or more (downstream) components are removed from a system section to be flushed before such flushing is initiated, in particular to prevent flushed products or product parts from becoming stuck in such components.

[0132] It will be clear to those skilled in the art that the invention is not limited to the embodiments described. Various changes are possible within the framework of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0133] For example, the system may be configured to temporarily suspend the product supply during rotation of the valve body 12 (e.g., by temporarily switching off said supply pump 3), but this is not necessary.

[0134] Furthermore, the valve system, i.e. the valve body 12 and valve housing 13, preferably has a universal passage. A passage of the two cutting devices 4a, 4b can preferably be configured specifically for a product size (of products P to be cut), and can, for example, consist of interchangeable components for this purpose. For example, the system can have a modular design, wherein different types of cutting devices (which differ from each other) can be installed in the housing 2 in order to cut different products and / or to produce different cut product parts from the same products.

[0135] Preferably, a respective (plate) shut-off valve 25a, 25b is placed downstream behind each cutting device 4a, 4b, which valve can be configured to prevent the liquid flow containing cut product from flowing back through the tubular collection structure 20 to a cutting device 4a, 4b that is out of operation 4b (i.e., to the cutting device 4a, 4b that is not currently connected to the supply tube 50 via the valve system 12, 13). The shut-off valves 25a, 25b are preferably automatically operated for this purpose by said controller C, in particular depending on said sensor signal. In particular, the lower shut-off valve 25b (relating to the lower outlet 36) can be automatically kept in a closed state and the upper shut-off valve 25a (relating to the upper outlet 35) in an open state when the valve body 12 is in the first rotational state (and directs a product flow to the upper cutting device 4a). In particular, the lower shut-off valve 25b can be automatically kept in an open state and the upper shut-off valve 25a in a closed state when the valve body 12 is in the second rotational state (and directs a product flow to the lower cutting device 4b).

[0136] Furthermore, the valve may, for example, be provided with one or more stops 61a, 61b (see Fig. 13) to define respective rotational end positions of the valve body 12, 112, which will be apparent to the skilled person. For example, a part of a valve body rotation shaft 59 located outside the valve housing 113 can be attached to a blocking arm 60 that swivels with that shaft 59, which blocking arm 60 makes mechanical contact (via a radial end) with a first stop element 61a (mounted on the housing 113) when the valve body 112 is in the first rotational position. The blocking arm 60 can make mechanical contact with a second stop element 61b (mounted on the housing 113) when the valve body 112 is in the second rotational position. Preferably, the circumferential positions of said blocking arm 60 are adjustable (via a suitable adjustment mechanism, adjustment screw, or the like) in order to adjust the second respective rotational end positions of the valve body 112 relative to the valve housing 113.

[0137] Furthermore, one or more parts of the valve body 112 can be manufactured using a 3D printing process, for example one or more parts (e.g. the sealing bodies 117s, 117t) that delimit the respective channel 112a.

Claims

Claims1. A system for cutting products, for example potatoes, comprising: - at least two cutting devices (4a, 4b), each provided with one or more knifes (5); and- liquid supply means (11), configured to selectively supply products (P) in a liquid stream to one of the at least two cutting devices (4a, 4b), such that the products (P), under the influence of fluid pressure, are cut by the at least one knife (S) of a selected cutting device (4a, 4b);wherein the liquid supply means (11) are provided with a valve body (12; 112) rotatably mounted in a valve housing (13; 113), wherein the valve housing (13; 113) comprises an inlet port (K) for receiving the liquid flow, as well as at least two outlet ports (Pl, P2), each of which is in fluid communication with one respective cutting device of the at least two cutting devices (4a, 4b), the valve body (12; 112) comprising a fluid channel (12a; 112a) that is configured to connect the inlet port (K) to a first outlet port (Pl) of the at least two outlet ports in a first rotational position of the valve body (12; 112), and to connect the inlet port (K) to a second outlet port (P2) of the at least two outlet ports in a second rotational position of the valve body (12; 112).

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least two cutting devices (4a, 4b) are located at different heights, preferably one directly above the other.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the system is provided with a tubular collection structure (20) arranged downstream of the at least two cutting devices (4a, 4b) for collecting cut product, wherein an upstream portion of the collection structure comprises multiple tubular sections (21a, 22a) connected to respective outlets of the at least two cutting devices (4a,4b), wherein said tubular sections (21a, 22a) are located at different heights, preferably one directly above the other.

4. The system of any of the previous claims, wherein the valve body (12; 112) of the liquid supply means (10) is rotatable about a horizontal axis (X), wherein the at least two outlet ports (Pl, P2) of the valve housing (13; 113) are located at different heights.

5. The system of any of the previous claims, wherein the fluid channel (12a; 112a) of the valve body (12; 112) defines a channel bend of less than 45 degrees, in particular a bend of up to 30 degrees.

6. The system of any of the previous claims, wherein the valve body (12) is rotatable from the first rotational position to the second rotational position by an angle of more than 90 degrees, specifically more than 135 degrees.

7. The system of any of the previous claims 1-4, wherein the valve body (112) is rotatable from the first rotational position to the second rotational position through an angle of less than 90 degrees, in particular an angle of up to 60 degrees, for example an angle in the range of approximately 50-55 degrees.

8. The system of claim 7, wherein the fluid channel (112a) defined by the valve body (112) is configured to establish a fluid connection with the inlet port (K) of the valve housing (113) in any rotational position of the valve body (112) relative to the valve housing (113), and to be in fluid connection with at least part of one of said outlet ports (Pl, P2) in every rotational position of the valve body (112) relative to the valve housing (113).

9. The system of claim 7 or 8, wherein a first end (El’) of the fluid channel (112a) defined by the valve body (112) is extended in the circumferential direction of the valve body (112) relative to the inlet port (K), and for example relative to a second end (E2’) of the fluid channel (112a).

10. The system of any of the claims 7-9, wherein the fluid channel (112a) of the valve body (112) is provided with a gradually decreasing flow area, seen in a flow direction from the first channel end (El’) to the second channel end (E2’).

11. The system of any of the claims 7-10, wherein the fluid channel (112a) of the valve body (112) is limited on both sides at the first channel end (El’) by two parallel arc-shaped channel edge parts, which are in particular concentric to an axis of rotation of the valve body (112).

12. The system of any of the previous claims, wherein the rotatable valve body (12; 112) has a mass of approximately 20 kg or less, and preferably consists substantially of plastic.

13. The system of any of the previous claims, provided with a housing (2) in which the at least two cutting devices (4a, 4b) are arranged, wherein a longitudinal side of the housing (2) is provided with at least one lockable opening for access to the at least two cutting devices (4a, 4b).

14. The system of any of the previous claims, wherein the valve housing (13; 113) comprises an additional liquid inlet port (M) at an upper side for receiving a liquid, wherein a substantially cylindrical outer surface of the valve body (12; 112) faces the additional liquid inlet port (M) in both the first rotational position and the second rotational position of that valve body (12; 112).

15. The system of any of the previous claims, wherein the valve housing (13; 113) comprises an additional liquid outlet port (N) at a lower side for discharging a liquid, wherein a substantially cylindrical outer surface of the valve body (12; 112) faces the additional liquid discharge port (N) in both the first rotational position and the second rotational position of that valve body (12; 112).

16. The system of any of the previous claims, wherein the valve body (12; 112) is composed of two central and / or disc-shaped bodies (15, 16; 115, 116) that define the fluid channel.

17. The system of any of the previous claims, wherein the valve body (112) is equipped with inflatable seals (80a, 80b) to achieve a substantially liquid-tight connection between an outer side of the valve body (112) and an opposing inner side of the valve housing (113).

18. The system of claim 17, wherein the inflatable seals (80a, 80b) are ring-shaped.

19. The system of claim 17 or 18, wherein the system is provided with a fluid source (AS) for inflating the inflatable seals (80a, 80b).

20. The system of any of the claims 17-19, wherein the valve body (112) is provided with a hollow rotor shaft (79), which contains a fluid channel (81) that is in fluid communication with the inflatable seals (80a, 80b) for supplying an inflating medium to those seals (80a, 80b).

21. A method for cutting products, for example potatoes, using a system of any of the previous claims, the method comprising:- passing a liquid stream containing the products (P) from an inlet port (K) of a valve housing (13; 113), through a fluid channel (12a; 112a) of a valve body (12; 112) mounted in the valve housing (13; 113), to a first outlet port (Pl) of the valve housing (13; 113), in order to then cut the products (P) under the influence of fluid pressure in a first cutting device (4a, 4b);- rotating the valve body (12; 112) through a rotation angle to fluidly connect the inlet port (K) of the valve housing (13; 113) via the fluid channel (12a; 112a) to a second outlet port (P2) of the valve housing (13; 113); and- passing the liquid flow containing the products (P) from the inlet port (K) of the valve housing (13; 113), through the fluid channel (12a; 112a) of the valve body (12; 112), to the second outlet port (P2) of the valve housing (13; 113), in order to then cut the products (P) under the influence of fluid pressure in the second cutting device (4a, 4b).

22. The method of claim 21, wherein a rotation time of the valve body (12; 112), to rotate that body between the first rotational position over said rotation angle to the second rotational position, is less than 1 second.

23. The method of any of the claims 21, 22, comprising:- monitoring the liquid flow and / or a cutting process performed by said cutting device (4a, 4b), while emitting a respective measuring signal that is processed by a system controller (C); and- depending on said measuring signal, automatically rotating the valve body (12; 112) through said angle of rotation.

24. The method of any of the previous claims 21-23, wherein the liquid flow containing products is discharged from the first outlet port (Pl) in a first direction (Rl) out of the valve housing (13; 113), wherein the liquid flow containing products is discharged from the second outlet port (P2) in the second direction (Rl) out of the valve housing (13; 113), wherein said first direction (Rl) and second direction (R2) diverge when viewed in a virtual vertical plane, and for example enclose an angle in the range of 5-45 degrees.

25. The method of any of the claims 21-24 in combination with at least claim 17, wherein the inflatable seals (80a, 80b) are each held in a release state during a flushing period to effect a flushing flow between the valve body (112) and the valve housing (113), wherein the flushing flow is supplied to an outlet port of the valve housing (113) relative to flushing a downstream part of the system.

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