Device and method for transporting meat products

Abstract

A slaughtered animal meat handling device and a method for transporting meat products from a receiving area to a discharge area device are provided. The device includes at least one supply conveyor, a suction transporter and at least one return conveyor. Meat products that are not engaged by the suction transporter are transported away from the transfer area towards the receiving area by the return conveyor. The meat products are reintroduced onto the supply conveyor away for the transfer area, for again being transported towards the transfer area. The supply conveyor and the return conveyor provide a circulation of meat products. By reintroducing the meat products onto the supply conveyor away from the transfer area, the chance of getting the meat products correctly positioned on the supply conveyor with respect to a suction opening of the suction transporter is increased.

Claims

1. A slaughtered animal meat handling device for transporting meat products from a receiving area to a discharge area, wherein the device comprises: at least one supply conveyor, the supply conveyor extending between the receiving area and a transfer area, for receiving meat products at the receiving area and for transporting the meat products in a substantially horizontal transport direction to the transfer area, the conveyor having a first end and a second end, the second end being located at the transfer area; a suction conveyor extending between the transfer area and the discharge area for transporting meat products from the transfer area to the discharge area, the suction conveyor having a transport surface which, at the transfer area, has a substantially vertical orientation, and having a lane of suction openings, provided in the transport surface for engaging the meat products supported by the supply conveyor in the transfer area, and the suction conveyor being configured for lifting the engaged meat product from the supply conveyor and moving the engaged meat product away from the transfer area, wherein the second end of the supply conveyor is aligned with the lane of suction openings of the suction conveyor; and at least one return conveyor, the return conveyor extending substantially parallel to the supply conveyor, for transporting meat products, that are provided in the transfer area by the supply conveyor and that are not engaged by the suction opening of the suction conveyor, away from the transfer area and towards the receiving area, the return conveyor having a first end located at the transfer area next to the second end of the supply conveyor for receiving meat products from the supply conveyor, wherein the slaughtered animal meat handling device is furthermore configured to, at a feedback area, move the meat products transported by the return conveyor away from the transfer area, from the return conveyor onto the supply conveyor for again being transported towards the transfer area, such that the supply conveyor and the return conveyor provide a circulation of meat products.

2. The slaughtered animal meat handling device according to claim 1, wherein the device comprises a second return conveyor, the second return conveyor extending substantially parallel to the supply conveyor, such that the return conveyor and the second return conveyor flank the supply conveyor on opposite sides thereof, for transporting meat products provided in the transfer area by the supply conveyor that are not engaged by the suction opening of the suction conveyor, away from the transfer area and towards the receiving area, the second return conveyor having a first end located at the transfer area next to the second end of the supply conveyor for receiving meat products from the supply conveyor.

3. The slaughtered animal meat handling device according to claim 1, wherein the transport surface of the suction conveyor has a width at least equal to a width of the supply conveyor, to promote a sideway motion of meat products that are not engaged by the suction openings of the suction conveyor, onto the return conveyor or onto the return conveyor and second return conveyor.

4. The slaughtered animal meat handling device according to claim 1, wherein the transport surface of the suction conveyor has a width at least equal to the combined width of the supply conveyor and the return conveyor.

5. The slaughtered animal meat handling device according to claim 1, wherein the supply conveyor and the return conveyor each have a transport surface, and wherein, at the transfer area, the transport surface of the supply conveyor is located above the transport surface of the return conveyor, when moved from the supply conveyor onto the return conveyor, falls down onto the return conveyor.

6. The slaughtered animal meat handling device according to claim 1, wherein the supply conveyor and the return conveyor each have a transport surface, and wherein, at the feedback area, the transport surface of the supply conveyor is level with the transport surface of the return conveyor, such that the transport surface of the supply conveyor and the transport surface of the return conveyor together define a substantially flat feedback area.

7. The slaughtered animal meat handling device according to claim 1, wherein the supply conveyor and the return conveyor each have a transport surface, and wherein, at the feedback area, the transport surface of the supply conveyor is located below the transport surface of the return conveyor, such that a meat product, when moved from the return conveyor onto the supply conveyor, falls down onto the supply conveyor.

8. The slaughtered animal meat handling device according to claim 1, wherein the feedback area at least partially overlaps with the receiving area.

9. The slaughtered animal meat handling device according to claim 1, wherein the supply conveyor and the return conveyor each have a return roll at the transfer area, the return rolls each having an axis of rotation, the axis of rotation extending parallel to each other.

10. The slaughtered animal meat handling device according to claim 1, wherein the return conveyor is configured to transport meat products in a direction parallel, but opposite to, the transport direction of the supply conveyor along at least 25% of the length of the supply conveyor, such that meat products are fed back onto the supply conveyor at a distance from the transfer area.

11. The slaughtered animal meat handling device according to claim 1, wherein the device at the feedback area comprises a feedback conveyor for promoting meat products to move from the return conveyor to the supply conveyor, the feedback conveyor having a transport surface that has a substantially vertical orientation at the feedback area, and the vertical orientated transport surface extending along at least the width of the return conveyor, and the feedback conveyor being located above the transport surface of the return conveyor such that meat products transported by the return conveyor are pushed by the return conveyor against the vertical orientated transport surface of the feedback conveyor.

12. The slaughtered animal meat handling device according to claim 1, wherein the supply conveyor is a first supply conveyor, and wherein the device further comprises a second supply conveyor for receiving meat products at the receiving area and for transporting the meat products in a substantially horizontal transport direction to the transfer area and an associated second suction conveyor for transporting meat products from the transfer area to the discharge area, wherein the second suction conveyor has at least one suction opening for engaging the meat products supported by the second supply conveyor in the transfer area, and the second suction conveyor being configured for lifting the engaged meat products from the second supply conveyor and moving the engaged meat product away from the transfer area, wherein the second supply conveyor extends, substantially parallel to the first supply conveyor, between the receiving area and the transfer area, the second supply conveyor having a first end and a second end, the second end of the second supply conveyor being located at the transfer area, wherein the return conveyor of the first supply conveyor is also the return conveyor of the second supply conveyor, such that the first supply conveyor and the second supply conveyor share the return conveyor, and wherein the return conveyor extends substantially parallel to the second supply conveyor, for transporting meat products, that are provided in the transfer area by the second supply conveyor and that are not engaged by the suction opening of the second suction conveyor, away from the transfer area and towards the receiving area, the return conveyor having a first end located at the transfer area next to the second end of the second supply conveyor for receiving meat products from the second supply conveyor.

13. The slaughtered animal meat handling device according to claim 12, wherein the return conveyor is a first return conveyor, and wherein the second supply conveyor is provided with: a second return conveyor, the second return conveyor extending substantially parallel to the second supply conveyor such that the first return conveyor and the second return conveyor flank the second supply conveyor on opposite sides thereof, for transporting meat products, that are provided in the transfer area by the second supply conveyor and that are not engaged by the suction opening of the second suction conveyor, away from the transfer area and towards the receiving area, the second return conveyor having a first end located at the transfer area next to the second end of the second supply conveyor for receiving meat products from the second supply conveyor.

14. The slaughtered animal meat handling device according to claim 12, wherein the suction conveyor and the second suction conveyor are combined in a suction conveyor, the suction conveyor extending between the transfer area and the discharge area, and the suction conveyor having a transport surface that, at the transfer area, has a substantially vertical orientation, wherein the suction conveyor has a lane of suction openings, provided in the transport surface, for engaging the meat products provided by the supply conveyor in the transfer area and for lifting the meat products in a substantially vertical transport direction from the transfer area, wherein the suction conveyor has a second lane of suction openings, provided in the transport surface, for engaging the meat products provided by the second supply conveyor in the transfer area and for lifting the meat products in a substantially vertical transport direction from the transfer area, wherein the second end of the supply conveyor is aligned with the lane of suction openings of the suction conveyor, and wherein the second end of the second supply conveyor is aligned with the second lane of suction openings of the suction conveyor.

15. A recirculation conveyor unit configured for combining with a suction conveyor to provide the device according to claim 1, wherein the recirculation conveyor unit comprises the supply conveyor and the return conveyor.

16. A method for transporting slaughtered animal meat products from a receiving area to a discharge area, using the slaughtered animal meat handling device according to claim 1, wherein the method comprises: presenting the meat products at the receiving area and transporting the meat products from the receiving area to a transfer area using a supply conveyor, the supply conveyor extending between the receiving area and a transfer area, for receiving meat products at the receiving area and for transporting the meat products in a substantially horizontal transport direction to the transfer area, the supply conveyor having a first end and a second end, the second end being located at the transfer area; lifting the meat products provided by the supply conveyor in the transfer area in a transport direction from the transfer area and transporting the meat products to the discharge area, using a suction conveyor, the suction conveyor having at least one suction opening for engaging the meat products supported by the supply conveyor in the transfer area, and the suction conveyor being configured for lifting the engaged meat product from the supply conveyor and moving the engaged meat product away from the transfer area; transporting meat products that are provided in the transfer area by the supply conveyor and that are not engaged by the suction opening of the suction conveyor, away from the transfer area and towards the receiving area, using a return conveyor, the return conveyor extending substantially parallel to the supply conveyor, the return conveyor having a first end located at the transfer area next to the second end of the supply conveyor for receiving meat products from the supply conveyor; and at a feedback area, moving the meat products transported by the return conveyor away from the transfer area, by the return conveyor, back onto the supply conveyor for again being transported towards the transfer area, such that the supply conveyor and the return conveyor provide a circulation of meat products between the transfer area and the supply area.

17. A slaughtered animal meat handling device for transporting meat products from a receiving area to a discharge area, wherein the device comprises: at least one supply conveyor, the supply conveyor extending between the receiving area and a transfer area, for receiving meat products at the receiving area and for transporting the meat products in a substantially horizontal transport direction to the transfer area, the conveyor having a first end and a second end, the second end being located at the transfer area; a suction transporter for transporting meat products from the transfer area to the discharge area, the suction transporter having at least one suction opening for engaging the meat products supported by the supply conveyor in the transfer area, and suction transporter being configured for lifting the engaged meat product from the supply conveyor and moving the engaged meat product away from the transfer area; a feedback conveyor at the transfer area for promoting meat products to move from the supply conveyor to a return conveyor, the feedback conveyor having a transport surface that has a substantially vertical orientation at the transfer area, and the vertical orientated transport surface extending along at least the width of the supply conveyor, and the feedback conveyor being located above the transport surface of the supply conveyor such that meat products transported by the supply conveyor are pushed by the supply conveyor against the vertical orientated transport surface of the feedback conveyor; and at least one return conveyor, the return conveyor extending substantially parallel to the supply conveyor, for transporting meat products, that are provided in the transfer area by the supply conveyor and that are not engaged by the suction opening of the suction transporter, away from the transfer area and towards the receiving area, the return conveyor having a first end located at the transfer area next to the second end of the supply conveyor for receiving meat products from the supply conveyor, wherein the slaughtered animal meat handling device is furthermore configured to, at a feedback area, move the meat products transported by the return conveyor away from the transfer area, from the return conveyor onto the supply conveyor for again being transported towards the transfer area, such that the supply conveyor and the return conveyor provide a circulation of meat products.

18. A slaughtered animal meat handling device for transporting meat products from a receiving area to a discharge area, wherein the device comprises: at least one supply conveyor, which supply conveyor extends between the receiving area and a transfer area, for receiving meat products at the receiving area and for transporting the meat products in a substantially horizontal transport direction to the transfer area, the conveyor having a first end and a second end, which second end is located at the transfer area; a pick up device for picking up meat products from the supply conveyor, and transporting the meat products to and releasing the meat products at the discharge area, which pick up device comprises one or more pickers for engaging the meat products presented by the supply conveyor at the transfer area; a feedback conveyor at the transfer area for promoting meat products to move from the supply conveyor to a return conveyor, which feedback conveyor has a transport surface that has a substantially vertical orientation at the transfer area, and which vertical orientated transport surface extends along at least the width of the supply conveyor, and which feedback conveyor is located above the transport surface of the supply conveyor such that meat products transported by the supply conveyor are pushed by the supply conveyor against the vertical orientated transport surface of the feedback conveyor; and at least one return conveyor, which return conveyor extends substantially parallel to the supply conveyor, for transporting meat products, that are provided in the transfer area by the supply conveyor and that are not engaged by the pick up device, away from the transfer area and towards the receiving area, the return conveyor having a first end located at the transfer area next to the second end of the supply conveyor for receiving meat products from the supply conveyor, wherein the slaughtered animal meat handling device is furthermore configured to, at a feedback area, move the meat products transported by the return conveyor away from the transfer area, from the return conveyor onto the supply conveyor for again being transported towards the transfer area, such that the supply conveyor and the return conveyor provide a circulation of meat products.

19. The slaughtered animal meat handling device according to claim 17 or claim 18, wherein the device comprises a second return conveyor, the second return conveyor extending substantially parallel to the supply conveyor, such that the return conveyor and the second return conveyor flank the supply conveyor on opposite sides thereof, for transporting meat products provided in the transfer area by the supply conveyor that are not engaged by the suction transporter or the pick up device, away from the transfer area and towards the receiving area, the second return conveyor having a first end located at the transfer area next to the second end of the supply conveyor for receiving meat products from the supply conveyor.

20. The slaughtered animal meat handling device according to claim 17 or claim 18, wherein the transport surface of the suction conveyor has a width at least equal to a width of the supply conveyor, to promote a sideway motion of meat products that are not engaged by the suction transporter or the pick up device, onto the return conveyor or onto the return conveyor and second return conveyor.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) In the drawings;

(2) FIG. 1 shows a schematic top view of a first exemplary embodiment of a slaughtered animal meat handling device for transporting meat products from a receiving area to a discharge area according to the invention;

(3) FIG. 2 shows a schematic side view of the device of FIG. 1

(4) FIG. 3 shows a schematic top view of a second exemplary embodiment of a slaughtered animal meat handling device for transporting meat products from a receiving area to a discharge area according to the invention;

(5) FIG. 4 shows a schematic side view of the device of FIG. 3;

(6) FIG. 5a shows a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a recirculation conveyor unit according to the invention;

(7) FIG. 5b shows a top view of the recirculation conveyor unit of FIG. 5a;

(8) FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of a third exemplary embodiment of a slaughtered animal meat handling device according to the invention, comprising the recirculation conveyor unit of FIG. 5;

(9) FIG. 7 shows a schematic top view of a fourth exemplary embodiment of a slaughtered animal meat handling device for transporting meat products from a receiving area to a discharge area according to the invention; and

(10) FIG. 8 shows a schematic side view of the device of FIG. 7.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

(11) FIG. 1 shows a schematic top view of a first exemplary embodiment of a slaughtered animal meat handling device 1 for transporting meat products 2 from a receiving area 3 to a discharge area 4. FIG. 2 shows a schematic side view of the meat handling device 1 of FIG. 1.

(12) The slaughtered animal meat handling device 1 for transporting meat products 2 comprises a supply conveyor 5, a suction conveyor 6, and a return conveyor 7.

(13) In the particular embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the device further comprises an infeed conveyor 14 and a feedback conveyor 15.

(14) The supply conveyor 5 has a first end 5a and a second end 5b. In the particular embodiment shown, the first end 5a is located at a feedback area 8, and the second end 5b is located at a transfer area 9.

(15) The suction conveyor 6 extends between the transfer area 9 and the discharge area 4. The suction conveyor 6 has a transport surface 11 that, at the transfer area 9, has a substantially vertical orientation. The transport surface 11 is provided with a lane of suction openings 12 for engaging the meat products 2.

(16) The second end 5b of the supply conveyor 5 is aligned with the lane of suction openings 12 of the suction conveyor 6.

(17) The return conveyor 7 extends in a direction substantially parallel to the supply conveyor 5. The return conveyor 7 has a first end 7a and a second end 7b. The first end 7a is located at the transfer area next to the second end 5b of the supply conveyor 5. In the particular embodiment shown, the second end 7b of the return conveyor is located adjacent the feedback conveyor 15.

(18) Furthermore, in the particular embodiment shown, the return conveyor 7 is a transport conveyor comprising an endless belt or track providing the return conveyor with a transport surface for supporting and transporting the meat products. In the embodiment shown, the transport surface of the feedback conveyor extends in a substantially horizontal direction.

(19) In the particular embodiment shown, meat products 2 are provided by the infeed conveyor 14, the end of which is located above the supply conveyor 5 for dropping meat products onto the supply conveyor at the receiving area 3.

(20) The feedback conveyor 15 is provided at the feedback area 8. The feedback conveyor 15 is located at the second end 7b of the return conveyor 7 and extends in a direction perpendicular thereto, and over the width of the return conveyor 7.

(21) In the particular embodiment shown, the supply conveyor 5, the return conveyor 7, the infeed conveyor 14 and the feedback conveyor 15 are transport conveyors comprising an endless belt or track providing the conveyor with a transport surface. In the particular embodiment shown, the transport surfaces of the conveyors extend in a substantially horizontal direction for supporting and transporting the meat products.

(22) The supply conveyor 5 extends between the receiving area 3 and the transfer area 8, for receiving meat products 2 at the receiving area 3 and for transporting the meat products 2 in a substantially horizontal transport direction, indicated with arrow 10, to the transfer area 8.

(23) The suction conveyor 6 is configured to engage the meat products 2 provided by the supply conveyor 5 in the transfer area 9, and to lift the meat products in a substantially vertical transport direction, indicated with arrow 13, from the transfer area 9.

(24) The second end 5b of the supply conveyor 5 is located next to the first end 7a of the return conveyor 7 for receiving meat products 2 from the supply conveyor 5, such that the return conveyor can transport meat products provided in the transfer area by the supply conveyor away from the transfer area 9 and towards the receiving area 8. The transport direction of the return conveyor 7 is indicated with arrow 17.

(25) At the feedback area 8, the meat products 2 transported by the return conveyor 7 away from the transfer area 9 are received by the feedback conveyor 15. The feedback conveyor is configured for moving the meat products in a transport direction, indicated with arrow 16, perpendicular to the transport direction 17 of the return conveyor 7.

(26) Thus, in the particular embodiment shown, the surplus of meat products 2 is moved by the feedback 15 conveyor from the return conveyor 7 onto the supply conveyor 5 for again being transported towards the transfer area 9, such that the supply conveyor and the return conveyor provide a circulation of meat products.

(27) By reintroducing the meat products onto the supply conveyor away from the transfer area, the chance of getting the correctly positioned on the supply conveyor with respect to the lane of suction openings is increased. Thus, excessive accumulation of products at the transfer area is prevented. The chance that meat products being positioned out of reach of the suction openings are also moved out of the transportation process for prolonged periods of time is significantly reduced.

(28) In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the second end 5b of the supply conveyor is located at the transfer area 9 and the first end 5a of the supply conveyor 5 is located beyond the receiving area 3, i.e. on a side of the receiving area 3 opposite the side at which the second end 5b of the supply conveyor 5 is located.

(29) This configuration, i.e. locating the first end 5a of the supply conveyor 5 outside the receiving area 3, allows meat products to be reintroduced on the supply conveyor 5 prior to the conveyor passing through the receiving area 3. Thus, the recirculated meat products are introduced on an empty transport surface of the supply conveyor 5, which enhances the chance that they are positioned at the centre of the transport track of the supply conveyor, in an optimal position for being engaged by the suction openings of the suction conveyor 6.

(30) The suction conveyor 6 comprises a belt 18 with suction openings 19. The suction openings 19 are small compared to the size of the meat products 2 such that a meat product can overlap the opening and can thus substantially seal the suction opening. In the embodiment shown, a suction device 20 is provided behind the conveyor belt 18 of the suction conveyor 6. The suction device 20 provides an underpressure at the side of the conveyor belt away from the transport surface, which reduced pressure makes that air is drawn via the suction openings, and thus makes that a product that overlaps the suction openings is engaged, i.e. is sucked against the transport surface of the conveyor belt by the suction openings.

(31) In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 and, the suction device 20 provides a underpressure behind the vertical section of the transport surface of the suction conveyor 6, and along a first part of the horizontal section of the suction conveyor 6. Thus, the meat products are engaged by the suction openings along the vertical section and along the first part of the horizontal section of the suction conveyor. Along the second part of the horizontal section of the suction conveyor the meat products are only supported by the transport surface of the suction conveyor and are no longer engaged by the suction openings. Thus, the meat products can be removed from the transport surface, e.g. can be transferred freely onto another conveyor located downstream of the suction conveyor.

(32) FIG. 3 shows a schematic top view of a second exemplary embodiment of a slaughtered animal meat handling device 201 for transporting meat products 202 from a receiving area 203 to a discharge area 204. FIG. 4 shows a schematic side view of the device 201 of FIG. 3.

(33) The slaughtered animal meat handling device 201 for transporting meat products 202 comprises a supply conveyor 205, a suction conveyor 206, and a return conveyor 2077.

(34) In the particular embodiment shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the device further comprises a second return conveyor 218, an infeed conveyor 214, and a feedback conveyor 215.

(35) The supply conveyor 205 has a first end 205a and a second end 205b. In the particular embodiment shown, the first end 205a is located at a feedback area 208, and the second end 205b is located at a transfer area 209.

(36) The suction conveyor 206 extends between the transfer area 209 and the discharge area 204. The suction conveyor 206 has a transport surface 211 that, at the transfer area 209, has a substantially vertical orientation. The transport surface 211 is provided with a lane of suction openings 212 for engaging the meat products 202.

(37) The second end 205b of the supply conveyor 205 is aligned with the lane of suction openings 212 of the suction conveyor 206.

(38) The return conveyor 207 and the second return conveyor 218 both extend in a direction substantially parallel to the supply conveyor 205. The return conveyor 207 has a first end 207a and a second end 207b. The second return conveyor 218 has a first end 218a and a second end 218b. The first ends 207a, 2018a are located at the transfer area next to the second end 205b of the supply conveyor 205. In the particular embodiment shown, the second ends 207b, 218b of the return conveyors are located adjacent the first end 205a of the supply conveyor 205.

(39) In the particular embodiment shown, meat products 202 are provided by the infeed conveyor 214, the end of which is located above the supply conveyor 205, at the first end 205a thereof, for dropping meat products onto the supply conveyor at the receiving area 203.

(40) In the particular embodiment shown, the feedback conveyor 215 has a transport surface that has a substantially vertical orientation. The feedback conveyor 215 is located along the second end 207b of the return conveyor 207, the second end 218b of the second return conveyor 207, and the first end 205a of the supply conveyor 205.

(41) In the particular embodiment shown, the supply conveyor 205, the return conveyor 207, the second return conveyor 218, the infeed conveyor 214 and the feedback conveyor 215 are transport conveyors comprising an endless belt or track providing the conveyor with a transport surface.

(42) In the particular embodiment shown, the transport surfaces of the supply conveyor 205 and the infeed conveyor 214 extend in a substantially horizontal direction for supporting and transporting the meat products.

(43) In the particular embodiment shown, at the transfer area sections of the transport surfaces of the return conveyor 207 and the second return conveyor 218 extend in a substantially horizontal direction for supporting and transporting the meat products. A section of both the first and the second return conveyor 207, 218 extend at an angle to negotiate a height difference between the first ends of the return conveyors located at the transfer area and the sections of the return conveyors located at the feedback area, providing the return conveyors with an inclined transport surface along a section of the transport trajectory. The inclination of the transport surfaces is however such that the return conveyors can still engage and transport the meat products by friction induced by gravity.

(44) The supply conveyor 205 extends between the receiving area 203 and the transfer area 208, for receiving meat products 202 at the receiving area 203 and for transporting the meat products 202 in a substantially horizontal transport direction, indicated with arrow 210, to the transfer area 208.

(45) The suction conveyor 206 is configured to engage the meat products 202 provided by the supply conveyor 5 in the transfer area 9, and to lift the meat products in a substantially vertical transport direction, indicated with arrow 213, from the transfer area 209.

(46) The second end 205b of the supply conveyor 205 is flanked by the first end 207a of the return conveyor 7 on one side and the first end 218a of the second return conveyor 218 on an opposite side. Thus, the device provides the surplus of meat products, i.e. the meat products that are not engaged by the suction openings, two options to move away from the lane of suction openings of the suction conveyor, which enhances the chance of the meat products being received by a return conveyor, such that the return conveyor can transport the meat product away from the transfer area 209 and towards the receiving area 208.

(47) Furthermore, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the transport surface of the supply conveyor 205 is located above the transport surface of the return conveyor 207 and above the transport surface of the second return conveyor 218, such that a meat products of the surplus, when moved from the supply conveyor 205 onto the return conveyor 307 or the second return conveyor 218 at the transfer area, falls down onto the return conveyor.

(48) Thus, in combination with the upwards movement provided by the transport surface of the suction conveyor 206, a height difference is used to promote movement of the meat products that are not engaged by the suction openings of the suction conveyor towards the return conveyors. It has been found that the combination of these features works exceptionally well in propagating movement of the products towards the return conveyor or return conveyors.

(49) The transport direction of the return conveyor 207 is indicated with arrow 17. The transport direction of the second return conveyor 218 is indicated with arrow 219. Both the return conveyors end next to the beginning, i.e. the first end, of the supply conveyor 205, and at the feedback conveyor 215.

(50) In the particular embodiment shown, the feedback conveyor 215, with its vertically orientated transport surface, is configured for moving the meat products in an upward transport direction, indicated with arrow 216. Because the feedback conveyor 215 is provided with an endless conveyor belt or track with no engagement mean, such as the suction openings of suction conveyors, the meat products are not lifted upwards by the feedback conveyor. Instead, the feedback conveyor generates a rolling motion.

(51) At the feedback area 208, the meat product 202 transported by the return conveyor 207, or by the second return conveyor 218, are pushed against the vertical transport surface of the feedback conveyor 215. The upwardly directed transport direction of the feedback conveyor 215, in combination with the horizontally directed transport direction of the return conveyor 207 or the second return conveyor 218, more in particular the friction between the meat and the transport surface of the return conveyor and the transport surface of the feedback conveyor, moves the meat product towards the supply conveyor 205.

(52) Thus, in the particular embodiment shown, the surplus of meat products 202 is moved by the feedback conveyor 215 from the return conveyor 207 or the second return conveyor 218 onto the supply conveyor 205 for again being transported towards the transfer area 209, such that the supply conveyor and the return conveyors provide a circulation of meat products.

(53) In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the feedback area 208 and the receiving area 203 coincide, i.e. overlap with each other. Thus, the recirculated surplus of meat products is reintroduced onto the supply conveyor 205 at the same location as the supply conveyor 205 receives new meat products from the infeed conveyor 214, i.e. meat products which have not yet been transported by the supply conveyor.

(54) In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the supply conveyor 205, the return conveyor 207 and the second return conveyor 218 each have a transport surface that, at the feedback area, are level with each other, such that the transport surface of the supply conveyor and the transport surface of the return conveyor and the transport surface of the second return conveyor together define a substantially horizontal feedback area.

(55) Providing a feedback area at which the transport surface of the return conveyors and the transport surface of the supply conveyor run level with each other, allows for easy transfer of the meat products from the return conveyor onto the supply conveyor.

(56) In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the lane of suction openings of the suction conveyor 206 comprises multiple spaced apart suction openings. The suction openings provided in the suction conveyor 206 are not visible because they are covered by a meat product, i.e. a meat piece product is engaged by the suction openings. The suction openings are provided at intervals, i.e. are spaced apart, such that when they engage meat products, a stream of spaced apart products is provided.

(57) In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the suction openings are provided in line with each other, i.e. are located on a centre line, said centre line extending in the transport direction. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the suction openings are staggered relative to each other, e.g. are provided alternately on opposite sides of such a centre line.

(58) In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the return conveyor 207 and the second return conveyor 2018 have a similar length, and thus both have the same feedback area, i.e. both return conveyors return meat products onto the supply conveyor at the same location. This shared feedback area 208 overlaps with the feedback area 208.

(59) In an alternative embodiment, the length of the return conveyor and the second return conveyor may differ. In such an embodiment, the return conveyors, which typically both have one end located at the transfer area, have different feedback areas. For example, one transfer area may be located upstream the receiving area of the supply conveyor and one transfer area may be located downstream of the receiving area of the supply conveyor.

(60) In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the suction conveyor has a width equal to the combined width of the supply conveyor and the return conveyor. Thus, the suction conveyor transport surface is extended beyond what is required for engaging products in, and lifting products from, the transfer area. The transport surface extends not only along the end of the supply conveyor, but also along the ends of the return conveyors. Thus, the suction conveyor is optimally utilized in moving meat products not engaged by the suction openings onto the return conveyors.

(61) In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the feedback conveyor 215 has a width at least equal to the combined width of the supply conveyor 205, the return conveyor 207 and the second return conveyor 218. Thus, a single feedback conveyor can be used for moving the meat products from both return conveyors towards the supply conveyor, which allows for a simple and efficient design of the device.

(62) In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the device 201 at the feedback area 208 comprises a feedback conveyor for promoting products to move from the return conveyor and the second return conveyor to the supply conveyor. The feedback conveyor 215 has a transport surface that has a substantially vertical orientation at the feedback area 208.

(63) In the preferred embodiment shown, the feedback conveyor has a width at least equal to the combined width of the supply conveyor, the return conveyor and the second return conveyor. Thus, a single feedback conveyor can be used for moving the meat products from both return conveyors towards the supply conveyor, which allows for a simple and efficient design of the device.

(64) FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a recirculation conveyor unit 300 according to the invention. More in particular, FIG. 5a shows a perspective view of the recirculation conveyor unit 300, while FIG. 5b shows a top view of the recirculation conveyor unit 300. The recirculation conveyor unit 300 comprises a first supply conveyor 305 and a first return conveyor 307 and a second return conveyor 318. The recirculation conveyor unit 300 is configured for combining with a suction conveyor to provide a device according to the invention.

(65) The circulation conveyor unit 300 can thus be used to, in combination with an existing, prior art suction conveyor, provide a device according to the invention. FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of a slaughtered animal meat handling device 301 comprising the recirculation conveyor unit 300 of FIG. 5.

(66) The slaughtered animal meat handling device 301 is partially similar to the device shown in FIGS. 3 and 4. The main difference is that the device 301, in addition to a first supply conveyor 305, comprises a second supply conveyor 321, and a suction conveyor 306 having a second lane of suction openings 322. The second supply conveyor 321 is aligned with a second lane of suction openings 322.

(67) Thus, the slaughtered animal meat handling device 301 for transporting meat products 302 comprises a first supply conveyor 305, a second supply conveyor 321, and a suction conveyor 306.

(68) Thus, the device 301 is provided with a double capacity, and is able to produce parallel rows of meat products. Such a device is in particular beneficial for the parallel transportation of left side and right side breast filets of slaughtered poultry, or similar left and right side meat products.

(69) In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the second supply conveyor 321 extends, substantially parallel to the first supply conveyor 305, between the receiving area 303 and the transfer area 309, for receiving meat products at the receiving area and for transporting the meat products in a substantially horizontal transport direction to the transfer area, the supply conveyor having a first end and a second end, which second end is located at the transfer area and is aligned with the second lane of suction openings of the suction conveyor;

(70) Furthermore, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, both the first supply conveyor 305 and the second supply conveyor 321 have a first return conveyor 307, 307 and a second return conveyor 318, 318.

(71) The first return conveyor 307 of the second supply conveyor 321 extends substantially parallel to the second supply conveyor, for transporting meat products provided in the transfer area 309 by the second supply conveyor 321 away from the transfer area and towards the receiving area 303. The first return conveyor 307a of the second supply conveyor 321 having a first end 307aa located at the transfer area 309 next to the second end 321a of the second supply conveyor 321 for receiving meat products from the supply conveyor.

(72) The second return conveyor 318 of the second supply conveyor 321 extends substantially parallel to the first return conveyor 307 of the second supply conveyor 312 such that the first return conveyor 307 and the second return conveyors 318 flank the second supply conveyor 321 on opposite sides thereof, for transporting meat products provided in the transfer area 309 by the second supply conveyor away from the transfer area and towards the receiving area. The second return conveyor 318 having a first end 318a located at the transfer area 309 next to the second end 321b of the second supply conveyor 321 for receiving meat products from the second supply conveyor.

(73) Thus, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the first supply conveyor 305 and the second supply conveyor 321 each are flanked by a first return conveyor 307, 307 and a second return conveyor 318, 318.

(74) Furthermore, in the preferred embodiment shown, the first supply conveyor 305 and the second supply conveyor 321 share the first return conveyor, i.e. the first return conveyors 307, 307 are combined in a single return conveyor 307, which single return conveyor 307 is located between the two supply conveyors 305, 321, and which has a width that is twice the width of the transport surface of the second return conveyors 318, 318.

(75) In the particular embodiment shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the device 301, more in particular the circulation conveyor unit 300, further comprises a feedback conveyor 315. In the embodiment shown, the feedback conveyor is similar to the feedback conveyor 215 of the device 201 shown in FIGS. 3 and 4.

(76) In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the feedback conveyor 315 has a width at least equal to the combined width of the two supply conveyors 305, 321, and their return conveyors 307, 318, 318. Thus, a single feedback conveyor is be used for moving the meat products from the return conveyors towards the supply conveyors, which allows for a simple and efficient design of the device.

(77) In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the suction conveyor 307 comprises a drum, having a horizontal axis of rotation, which drum defines a curved transport trajectory. In he preferred embodiment shown, the supply conveyors 305, 321 each meet the curved suction conveyor 307 at a location of the curved transport trajectory such that the main direction of displacement of a meat engaged by the suction conveyor in the transfer area is vertical.

(78) Furthermore, in the preferred embodiment shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the return conveyors 307, 318, 318 have a transport surface that, at the transfer area 309, is located between the transport surface of the first supply conveyor 305 and the second supply conveyor 321. Along a trajectory between the transfer area 309 and the feedback area 308, the transport surfaces of the return conveyors are inclined in the direction of transportation, such that the transport meat products in an upward direction, from a level below the transport surface of the supply conveyors at the transfer area, to a level equal with the transport surface of the supply conveyors at the feedback area.

(79) FIG. 7 shows a schematic top view of a fourth exemplary embodiment of a slaughtered animal meat handling device 401 for transporting meat products 402 from a receiving area 403 to a discharge area 404. FIG. 8 shows a schematic side view of the meat handling device 401 of FIG. 7. It is submitted that the device shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 is partially similar to the device shown in FIGS. 3 and 4. The main difference is that in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 the suction transporter is configured as a suction conveyor.

(80) The slaughtered animal meat handling device 401 for transporting meat products 402 comprises a supply conveyor 405, a suction transporter 406, and a return conveyor 407. The device further comprises a second return conveyor 418, an infeed conveyor 414, and a feedback conveyor 415.

(81) The supply conveyor 405 has a first end 405a and a second end 405b. In the particular embodiment shown, the first end 405a is located at a feedback area 408, and the second end 405b is located at a transfer area 409.

(82) The suction transporter 406, for transporting meat products from the transfer area 409 to the discharge area 404, comprises two pickers in 421. The pickers 421 are each at a bottom end provided with a suction head 424, the suction head comprising a suction opening for engaging a meat product. The pickers 421 are furthermore mounted on a pivotable frame 422, such that the can be moved in a vertical direction. Thus the pickers 421 can be lowered for engaging a meat product 402 supported by the supply conveyor 405 in the transfer area 409, and be lifted for subsequently lifting the meat 402 product from the transport surface of the supply conveyor 405. The pivotable frame 422 is configured such that it can pivot about a vertical axis 423 to thus move the pickers 421 from the transfer area 409 to the discharge area 404, and vice versa.

(83) The second end 405b of the supply conveyor 405 is aligned with the pick up position of the pickers 421 of the suction transporter 406.

(84) In the particular embodiment shown, meat products 402 are provided by the infeed conveyor 414, the end of which is located above the supply conveyor 405 for dropping meat products onto the supply conveyor at the receiving area 403.

(85) The return conveyor 407 and the second return conveyor 418 both extend in a direction substantially parallel to the supply conveyor 405. The return conveyor 407 has a first end 407a and a second end 407b. The second return conveyor 418 has a first end 418a and a second end 418b. The first ends 407a, 4018a are located at the transfer area next to the second end 405b of the supply conveyor 405. In the particular embodiment shown, the second ends 407b, 418b of the return conveyors are located adjacent the first end 405a of the supply conveyor 405.

(86) In the particular embodiment shown, meat products 402 are provided by the infeed conveyor 414, the end of which is located above the supply conveyor 405, at the first end 405a thereof, for dropping meat products onto the supply conveyor at the receiving area 403.

(87) In the embodiment shown, a feedback conveyor 415 is provided at both ends of the supply conveyor 405. The feedback conveyors 415 both have a transport surface that has a substantially vertical orientation. The feedback conveyors 415 are located along the opposite second send 407a, 407b of the return conveyor 407, both ends 418a, 418b of the second return conveyor 407, and both ends 405a, 405b of the supply conveyor 405.

(88) In the particular embodiment shown, the supply conveyor 405, the return conveyor 407, the second return conveyor 418, the infeed conveyor 414 and the feedback conveyor 415 are all transport conveyors comprising an endless belt or track providing the respective conveyors with a transport surface.

(89) The transport surfaces of the supply conveyor 405 and the infeed conveyor 414 extend in a substantially horizontal direction for supporting and transporting the meat products.

(90) At the transfer area sections of the transport surfaces of the return conveyor 407 and the second return conveyor 418 extend in a substantially horizontal direction for supporting and transporting the meat products. A section of both the return conveyor 207 and the second return conveyor 218 extend at an angle to negotiate a height difference between the first ends of the return conveyors located at the transfer area 209 and the sections of the return conveyors located at the feedback area 408, providing the return conveyors with an inclined transport surface along a section of the transport trajectory. The inclination of the transport surfaces is however such that the return conveyors can still engage and transport the meat products by friction induced by gravity.

(91) The supply conveyor 405 extends between the receiving area 403 and the transfer area 408, for receiving meat products 402 at the receiving area 403 and for transporting the meat products 402 in a substantially horizontal transport direction, indicated with arrow 410, to the transfer area 408.

(92) The suction transporter 406 is provided with pickers 421 having suction heads 424 for engaging the meat products 402 provided by the supply conveyor 405 in the transfer area 409, and to lift the meat products in a substantially vertical transport direction, indicated with arrow 413, from the transfer area 409. The meat products are subsequently moved in a substantially horizontal direction, over the feedback conveyor, towards the discharge area by pivoting the frame supporting the pickers. At the discharge area the meat product is dropped, by removing the underpressure at the suction opening, onto the discharge conveyor.

(93) In the embodiment shown, the second end 405b of the supply conveyor 405 is flanked by the first end 407a of the return conveyor 7 on one side and the first end 418a of the second return conveyor 418 on an opposite side. Thus, the device 401 provides the meat products that are not engaged by the suction openings of the suction heads 424, two options to move away, from the supply conveyor onto a return conveyor. This enhances the chance of the meat products being received by a return conveyor, such that the return conveyor can transport the meat product away from the transfer area 409 and towards the receiving area 408.

(94) Furthermore, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the transport surface of the supply conveyor 405 is located above the transport surface of the return conveyor 407 and above the transport surface of the second return conveyor 418, such that a meat products, when moved from the supply conveyor 405 onto the return conveyor 407 or onto the second return conveyor 418 at the transfer area, falls down onto the return conveyor.

(95) Thus, in combination with the upwards movement provided by the transport surface of the feedback conveyor 415 located at the end of the supply conveyor, a height difference is used to promote movement of the meat products that are not engaged by the suction opening of a picker towards the return conveyors. It has been found that the combination of these features works exceptionally well in propagating movement of the products towards the return conveyor or return conveyors.

(96) The transport direction of the return conveyor 407 is indicated with arrow 417. The transport direction of the second return conveyor 418 is indicated with arrow 419. Both the return conveyors end next to the beginning, i.e. the first end, of the supply conveyor 405, and at the feedback conveyor 415.

(97) In the particular embodiment shown, the feedback conveyors 415, with their vertically orientated transport surfaces, are configured for moving the meat products in an upward transport direction, indicated with arrow 416. Because the feedback conveyors 415 are provided with an endless conveyor belt or track with no engagement mean, such as the suction openings of suction conveyors, the meat products are not lifted upwards by the feedback conveyors. Instead, the feedback conveyors generate a tumbling or rolling motion with the meat product contacting the transport surface of the feedback conveyor.

(98) At the feedback area 408, the meat product 402 transported by the return conveyor 407, or by the second return conveyor 418, are again pushed against the vertical transport surface of the feedback conveyor 415. The upwardly directed transport direction of the feedback conveyor 415, in combination with the horizontally directed transport direction of the return conveyor 407 or the second return conveyor 418, more in particular the friction between the meat and the transport surface of the return conveyor and the transport surface of the feedback conveyor, moves the meat product in a tumbling motion and towards the supply conveyor 405.

(99) Thus, in the particular embodiment shown, the meat products 402 are moved by a feedback conveyor 415 from the supply conveyor onto the return conveyor or the second return conveyor, and by a second feedback conveyor from the return conveyor 407 or the second return conveyor 418 onto the supply conveyor 405 for again being transported towards the transfer area 409, such that the supply conveyor and the return conveyors provide a circulation of meat products.

(100) In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the feedback area 408 and the receiving area 403 coincide, i.e. overlap with each other. Thus, the recirculated meat products are reintroduced onto the supply conveyor 405 at the same location as the supply conveyor 405 receives new meat products from the infeed conveyor 414, i.e. meat products which have not yet been transported by the supply conveyor.

(101) In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the supply conveyor 405, the return conveyor 407 and the second return conveyor 418 each have a transport surface that, at the feedback area, are level with each other, such that the transport surface of the supply conveyor and the transport surface of the return conveyor and the transport surface of the second return conveyor together define a substantially horizontal, flat feedback area.

(102) Providing a flat feedback area at which the transport surface of the return conveyors and the transport surface of the supply conveyor run level with each other, allows for easy transfer of the meat products from the return conveyor onto the supply conveyor.

(103) In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the suction transporter comprises two spaced apart pickers. The suction openings provided in the suction heads of the pickers are not visible in the side and top view provided. The pivotable frame supporting the pickers spaces the pickers at intervals, i.e. spaced apart. This, in combination with the pivotable movement of the frame, enables the suction conveyor to provide the discharge conveyor with one meat product after the other, and thus allows for creating a flow of interspaced meat products.

(104) In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the return conveyor 407 and the second return conveyor 418 have a similar length, and thus both have the same feedback area, i.e. both return conveyors return meat products onto the supply conveyor at the same location. This shared feedback area 408 overlaps with the receiving area 403.

(105) In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the feedback conveyor located at the transfer area has a width equal to the combined width of the supply conveyor and both return conveyors. The feedback conveyor transport surface extends not only along the end of the supply conveyor, but also along the ends of the return conveyors. Thus, the feedback conveyor is optimally utilized in moving meat products not engaged by the pickers onto the return conveyors.

(106) In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the feedback conveyor 415 located at the feedback area also has a width at least equal to the combined width of the supply conveyor 405, the return conveyor 407 and the second return conveyor 418. Thus, a single feedback conveyor can be used for moving the meat products from both return conveyors towards the supply conveyor, which allows for a simple and efficient design of the device.

REFERENCE SIGNS

(107) 1 slaughtered animal meat handling device

(108) 2 meat products

(109) 3 receiving area

(110) 4 discharge area

(111) 5 supply conveyor

(112) 5a first end supply conveyor

(113) 5b second end supply conveyor

(114) 6 suction conveyor

(115) 7 return conveyor

(116) 7a first end return conveyor

(117) 7b second end return conveyor

(118) 8 feedback area

(119) 9 transfer area

(120) 10 transport direction supply conveyor

(121) 11 transport surface suction conveyor

(122) 12 lane of suction openings

(123) 13 transport direction of the suction conveyor at the transfer area

(124) 14 infeed conveyor

(125) 15 feedback conveyor

(126) 16 transport direction of feedback conveyor

(127) 17 transport direction of return conveyor

(128) 18 conveyor belt suction conveyor

(129) 19 suction openings

(130) 20 suction device

(131) 201 slaughtered animal meat handling device

(132) 202 meat products

(133) 203 receiving area

(134) 204 discharge area

(135) 205 supply conveyor

(136) 205a first end supply conveyor

(137) 205b second end supply conveyor

(138) 206 suction conveyor

(139) 207 return conveyor

(140) 207a first end return conveyor

(141) 207b second end return conveyor

(142) 208 feedback area

(143) 209 transfer area

(144) 210 transport direction supply conveyor

(145) 211 transport surface suction conveyor

(146) 212 lane of suction openings

(147) 213 transport direction of the suction conveyor at the transfer area

(148) 214 infeed conveyor

(149) 215 feedback conveyor

(150) 216 transport direction of feedback conveyor

(151) 217 transport direction of return conveyor

(152) 218 second return conveyor

(153) 218a first end second return conveyor

(154) 218b second end second return conveyor

(155) 219 transport direction of the second return conveyor

(156) 220 suction device

(157) 300 recirculation conveyor unit

(158) 301 slaughtered animal meat handling device

(159) 302 meat products

(160) 303 receiving area

(161) 304 discharge area

(162) 305 first supply conveyor

(163) 305a first end first supply conveyor

(164) 305b second end first supply conveyor

(165) 306 suction conveyor

(166) 307 first return conveyor first supply conveyor

(167) 307 first return conveyor second supply conveyor

(168) 307a first end first return conveyor

(169) 307b second end first return conveyor

(170) 308 feedback area

(171) 309 transfer area

(172) 310 transport direction first supply conveyor

(173) 311 transport surface suction conveyor

(174) 312 lane of suction openings

(175) 313 transport direction of the suction conveyor at the transfer area

(176) 314 infeed conveyor

(177) 315 feedback conveyor

(178) 316 transport direction of feedback conveyor

(179) 317 transport direction of first return conveyor

(180) 318 second return conveyor first supply conveyor

(181) 318 second return conveyor second supply conveyor

(182) 319 transport direction of the second return conveyor

(183) 320 suction device

(184) 321 second supply conveyor

(185) 321a first end second supply conveyor

(186) 321b second end second supply conveyor

(187) 322 second lane of suction openings

(188) 401 slaughtered animal meat handling device

(189) 402 meat products

(190) 403 receiving area

(191) 404 discharge area

(192) 405 supply conveyor

(193) 405a first end supply conveyor

(194) 405b second end supply conveyor

(195) 406 suction transporter

(196) 407 return conveyor

(197) 407a first end return conveyor

(198) 407b second end return conveyor

(199) 408 feedback area

(200) 409 transfer area

(201) 410 transport direction supply conveyor

(202) 411

(203) 412 suction opening suction transporter

(204) 413 transport direction of the suction transporter at the transfer area

(205) 414 infeed conveyor

(206) 415 feedback conveyor

(207) 416 transport direction of feedback conveyors

(208) 417 transport direction of return conveyor

(209) 418 second return conveyor

(210) 418a first end second return conveyor

(211) 418b second end second return conveyor

(212) 419 transport direction of the second return conveyor

(213) 4220 suction device

(214) 421 pickers

(215) 422 pivotable frame

(216) 423 vertical pivot axis

(217) 424 suction head