Crustacean Processing Apparatus with Automated Shell Cracking and Meat Separation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The processing of crustaceans, such as lobsters and crabs, is labor-intensive and costly due to manual methods of separating the shell from the meat, which requires automation to improve efficiency and reduce labor costs.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus comprising a base, clamp, and piercing members for cracking the shell, along with a conveyor and cutting assemblies to automate the separation of the shell from the meat, utilizing fluidic devices and blades to make precise cuts and cracks in the shell, and a controller to adjust operational parameters based on size information for optimal processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual methods are used to separate the shell from the meat, then processing can be performed with simple equipment, but labor intensity and processing time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The processing apparatus is divided into multiple independent functional modules including a cracking assembly with piercing members, a cutting assembly with blades, and a conveyor system. Each module performs a specific operation (cracking, cutting, transporting) allowing the system to process multiple crustaceans simultaneously through automated sequential operations, thereby increasing productivity without requiring an overly complex monolithic design
Solution Approach 2:
The piercing members are configured to automatically crack the shell when they penetrate and rotate within it, and the cutting blades automatically separate the meat from the shell when actuated. The conveyor system automatically positions and transports the crustacean body parts through the processing stations, eliminating the need for manual intervention and significantly improving processing speed
2Manufacturing precision
If manual cracking and cutting is performed, then equipment simplicity is maintained, but manufacturing precision and consistency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The piercing members first penetrate and crack the shell at predetermined locations before the cutting blades act. This preliminary cracking action creates controlled fracture lines that guide subsequent cutting operations, ensuring precise and consistent meat separation. The conveyor system also pre-positions each crustacean body part in a standardized orientation, further enhancing cutting precision
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical operations (hand cracking with tools, hand cutting with knives) are replaced by automated mechanical systems. The piercing members rotate to crack shells with controlled force, and the cutting blades move along predetermined paths to make precise incisions. This mechanical automation ensures consistent cutting depth and angle across all processed crustaceans, achieving high manufacturing precision
3Productivity
If automated processing is implemented, then productivity and consistency improve, but the extent of automation and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The automated processing system is segmented into distinct functional stations (cracking station with piercing members, cutting station with blades, conveyor system). Each station is independently automated but operates in a coordinated sequence, allowing high throughput while managing automation complexity through modular design. Multiple crustaceans can be processed in parallel as they move through different stations
Solution Approach 2:
The piercing members serve multiple functions: they penetrate the shell, create initial cracks through rotation, and guide subsequent cutting operations. The cutting blades similarly perform both cracking and cutting functions. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate automated components needed, managing device complexity while maintaining high productivity
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for processing a crustacean body part is disclosed. The apparatus includes a conveyor, a first blade, and a first fluidic device. The conveyor has a downstream direction and a first region for supporting a crustacean body part. The first fluidic device is drivingly coupled to the first blade, and actuation of the first fluidic device moves the first blade into the first region. Methods of processing a crustacean body part, methods and apparatus for cracking a crustacean shell, controllers for directing processing of a crustacean body part, and pre-cut seafood items are also disclosed.