Dual-Robot Pork Carcass Cutting System for Simultaneous Spine Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for cutting animal carcasses, such as pork, along the spine and cleaning intervertebral spaces are inefficient, requiring multiple robots and manual operations, which are time-consuming and costly, and do not allow for simultaneous ventral and dorsal cutting.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising two robots positioned facing each other, with one robot capable of supporting and cutting the spine, and the other performing ventral cuts, using articulated arms and convergent blades to simultaneously cut and clean the spine, reducing the need for manual intervention and additional robots.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple robots and manual operations are used for cutting and cleaning, then cutting and cleaning functions are performed, but the process is time-consuming and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (cutting and cleaning) into a single integrated robot system. The first robot performs both ventral cutting and intervertebral space cleaning, while the second robot performs dorsal cutting, eliminating the need for separate manual operations and reducing overall processing time.
Solution Approach 2:
The first robot is designed with multi-functionality, equipped with both cutting means for ventral cutting and cleaning means for removing meat from intervertebral spaces. This universal robot can perform multiple tasks that previously required separate operations, improving productivity while reducing time loss.
2Device complexity
If non-simultaneous cutting is performed, then the process is simpler to control, but maintenance costs increase and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The cutting process is segmented into simultaneous ventral cutting (first robot) and dorsal cutting (second robot), allowing both operations to occur independently and concurrently. This segmentation enables parallel processing that reduces total cycle time while maintaining control through independent robot operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves continuous useful action by having both robots operate simultaneously without interruption. The ventral and dorsal cutting operations proceed in parallel, maximizing productivity and reducing overall processing time while the modular robot design keeps maintenance requirements manageable.
3Ease of operation
If manual cleaning of intervertebral spaces is performed, then the operation is flexible, but it saves time and money to automate it
Solution Approach 1:
The first robot is equipped with cleaning means that automatically remove meat from intervertebral spaces during the cutting process. This self-service capability eliminates the need for separate manual cleaning operations, improving productivity while the automated system maintains operational flexibility through programmable control.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a device for the ventral and dorsal cutting of a pork carcass or the carcass of an already sacrificed animal with a similar corporeal structure, in a completely simultaneous manner. The device is preferably formed by two robots that are placed facing each other, with the particularity that the cut along the dorsal side includes the corner of the spine and vertebrae, while the ventral cut cuts the spine in two parts. This device described in the invention comprises means that allow for the cutting in two practically equal halves of the body of the pig or similar animal, following the spine thereof, while the intervertebral space is cleaned of meat, in such a way that said system can perform a cut for the ventral side of the spine and a second cut for the dorsal side separating the meat from the space between the vertebrae.