Rotatable Mandrel for Poultry Carcass Orientation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current poultry processing systems lack efficient automated methods for orienting poultry carcasses during processing steps, often relying on manual changes that are time-consuming and costly, or complex and expensive automated systems that offer limited orientation options.
Innovation Solution
A poultry conveying system with a mandrel that can be rotated around two axes, actuated by independent actuators, allowing for various orientations to optimize processing steps, including the use of Geneva drive wheels and a holding system for controlled rotation and prevention of unwanted actuation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual orientation of poultry carcasses is used, then flexibility in orientation is achieved, but time consumption and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mandrel is designed with dynamic rotation capabilities around two different axes (first axis and second axis at non-zero angle), allowing the poultry carcass to be automatically oriented into various positions during conveyance, eliminating the need for manual repositioning while maintaining orientation flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical orientation with an automated mechanical system consisting of the rotatable mandrel and conveyor, where actuators automatically position the carcass in different orientations, reducing both time consumption and labor costs while maintaining adaptability
2Extent of automation
If complex automated orientation systems are used, then automation level increases, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The automated orientation system is segmented into simple, independent components: a mandrel that rotates around a first axis, and a carrier that rotates around a second axis, with each rotation controlled by simple actuators, avoiding the need for complex integrated orientation mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The mandrel and carrier combination serves multiple functions: it conveys the poultry carcass, orients it in various positions, and does so with a simple, reusable structure that can handle different processing requirements without requiring complex specialized mechanisms for each function
3Ease of operation
If mandrel rotation axes are positioned close to the connection block, then actuation simplicity increases, but collision risk with conveyor components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediate section between the connection block and the mandrel rotation point, which acts as a mediator to provide the necessary offset distance. This intermediate section allows the mandrel to rotate around axes positioned for simple actuation while preventing collision with the connection block and conveyor components
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables automated and efficient orientation of poultry carcasses for optimized processing, reducing manual intervention and operational costs while providing flexible orientation options for different processing steps.
Implementation Method 1
The actuator may include a Geneva drive wheel, such as a Maltese cross
Data Source
AI summary
A poultry conveying system includes: an endless conveyor including a connection block; a mandrel for supporting a poultry carcass or a part thereof; an intermediate section having a first end and a second end, the first end connecting to the mandrel and the second end connecting to the connection block, wherein the mandrel is arranged for rotating at the first end of the intermediate section around a first axis and around a second axis at a non-zero angle relative to the first axis; and a first actuator arranged for actuating the rotation of the mandrel around the first axis, and a second actuator arranged for actuating the rotation of the mandrel around the second axis, wherein the first actuator and the second actuator are located at the second end of the intermediate section.