U.S. patent application number 11/587146 was filed with the patent office on 2007-09-27 for adding an additive to a product suitable for human consumption.
This patent application is currently assigned to STORK PMT B.V.. Invention is credited to Andries Johan Martijn Kuijpers, Andrianus Josephes Van Den Nieuwelaar, Maurice Eduardus Theodorus Van Esbroeck.
Application Number | 20070221071 11/587146 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34964405 |
Filed Date | 2007-09-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070221071 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kuijpers; Andries Johan Martijn ;
et al. |
September 27, 2007 |
Adding an Additive to a Product Suitable for Human Consumption
Abstract
A method for treating a product suitable for human consumption,
in particular a meat product, such as for example slaughtered
poultry or parts thereof, in which method:--a large number of
products are successively supplied, optionally in groups, to an
inspection station; and--each product is subjected to a visual
inspection in the inspection station, in such a manner that, for
example, a visually detectable defect on the respective product is
detected. On the basis of the visual inspection, a decision is made
as to whether the respective product should be subjected to a
specific additive-addition treatment. The products to be subjected
to an additive-addition treatment are successively supplied to an
additive-addition station, where the products are successively
subjected to an additive-addition treatment and an additive is
added to at least one part of the outside of each product or the
inside of each product. If desired, a visual check of the additive
coating is carried out in a checking station after the additive has
been applied. Preferably, the checking station is designed to carry
out various visual checks, the visual check of a specific product
being adapted to the previous visual inspection of the respective
product prior to the application of the additive.
Inventors: |
Kuijpers; Andries Johan
Martijn; (Westerbeek, NL) ; Van Esbroeck; Maurice
Eduardus Theodorus; (Bemmel, NL) ; Van Den
Nieuwelaar; Andrianus Josephes; (Gemert, NL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
BIRCH STEWART KOLASCH & BIRCH
PO BOX 747
FALLS CHURCH
VA
22040-0747
US
|
Assignee: |
STORK PMT B.V.
3 Handelstraat
Boxmeer
NL
5831 AV
|
Family ID: |
34964405 |
Appl. No.: |
11/587146 |
Filed: |
April 8, 2005 |
PCT Filed: |
April 8, 2005 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/NL05/00270 |
371 Date: |
February 1, 2007 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
99/494 ; 426/239;
426/302; 426/416; 99/484 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A22C 25/00 20130101;
A23B 4/28 20130101; A22C 18/00 20130101; A22B 5/007 20130101; A23B
4/285 20130101; A23B 4/30 20130101; A23P 20/15 20160801; A23B 4/10
20130101; A22C 21/00 20130101; A23P 20/18 20160801; A23B 4/32
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
099/494 ;
426/239; 426/302; 426/416; 099/484 |
International
Class: |
A23P 1/08 20060101
A23P001/08; A23L 1/025 20060101 A23L001/025; A23L 1/314 20060101
A23L001/314; A23P 1/00 20060101 A23P001/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Apr 21, 2004 |
NL |
1025995 |
Claims
1. Method for treating a product suitable for human consumption, in
which method: a large number of products are successively supplied,
to an inspection station; each product is subjected to a visual
inspection in the inspection station, in such a manner that, a
visually detectable defect on the respective product is detected,
characterized in that, subsequently, on the basis of the visual
inspection, a decision is made as to whether the respective product
should be subjected to a specific additive-addition treatment,
which products to be subjected to an additive-addition treatment
are successively supplied to an additive-addition station, where
the products are successively subjected to an additive-addition
treatment and an additive is added to at least one part of the
outside of each product or the inside of each product.
2. (canceled)
3. (canceled)
4. (canceled)
5. Method according to claim 1, in which the products are conveyed
past the inspection station by means of a first conveyor which is
provided with a separate carrier for the product or group of
products, a second conveyor being associated with the
additive-addition station, with a separate carrier for each product
or group of products, a transfer station being provided between the
first and second conveyor.
6. Method according to claim 1, in which the products are subjected
to one or more dividing operations, in which a product is divided
into parts.
7. Method according to claim 6, in which the visual inspection
takes place before the one or more dividing operations.
8. Method according to claim 1, in which the additive-addition
device is designed to carry out various additive-addition
treatments, the treatment of a specific product being adapted to
the previous visual inspection of the respective product.
9. Method according to claim 8, in which the amount of additive to
be applied is variable and the amount of additive to be applied to
a specific product is adapted to the previous visual inspection of
the respective product.
10. Method according to claim 8, in which the location for applying
the additive on a product is variable, the additive to be applied
to a specific product being directed at one or more specific
locations which are chosen on the basis of the previous visual
inspection of the respective product.
11. Method according to claim 1, in which the additive-addition
station is fitted with an addition device, which addition device
dispenses additive at a distance from the product, which additive
moves towards the product through the air and at least partially
lands on the product.
12. (canceled)
13. (canceled)
14. Method for adding marinade to a product suitable for human
consumption, characterized in that the marinade is heated prior to
being added.
15. Method according to claim 14, in which the marinade is supplied
in powder form, and subsequently melted prior to application to the
product.
16. Method according to claim 15, in which the temperature of the
product is such that the liquid marinade solidifies on the
product.
17. Method according to claim 14, in which the product is cooled
prior to the application of the marinade.
18. Method according to claim 15, in which the solid marinade
comprises a meltable fat component and a non-meltable component,
such that, after melting, the melted fat carries the non-meltable
component along.
19. Method according to claim 14, in which the supplied marinade
comes into contact with one or more heated walls, leading to the
marinade heating up and/or melting.
20. Method according to claim 14, in which the marinade is moved
along during melting.
21. Method according to claim 14, in which the marinade remains
continuously heated from the moment it starts to melt.
22. Method according to claim 14, in which the marinade is stored
in a heated buffer store after heating, while the marinade is kept
moving.
23. Method according to claim 14, in which the marinade is pumped
over to addition means after heating.
24. Method according to claim 14, in which the marinade is sprayed
onto the product by means of a gas.
25. Method according to claim 14, in which the products are
successively conveyed past a marinade-addition device in groups or
individually.
26. Method according to claim 25, in which the products are led
past a camera before being conveyed to the marinade-addition
device, following which the products to be marinated are
selected.
27. Method according to claim 14, in which the marinade which has
not landed on the product is collected and recycled.
28. Method which effects the electrostatic application of additive
particles, such as on a product suitable for human consumption, in
particular the additive particles being supplied to a charging
electrode and an electric field being created between said charging
electrode and the product, characterized in that the additive
particles are deposited on the charging electrode, which is
designed as a supporting surface, following which the additive
particles, as a result of the electric field, leave the supporting
surface and jump onto the product, which is at a distance from the
electrode.
29. Method according to claim 28, in which the products are
successively conveyed past the charging electrode in groups or
individually.
30. (canceled)
31. (canceled)
32. Method according to claim 28, in which the additive particles
are taken from a buffer store with discharge opening onto a
vibrating plate, which vibrating plate conveys the additive
particles to the charging electrode.
33. (canceled)
34. Device for adding marinade to a product suitable for human
consumption, comprising: marinade supply means and addition means
which are connected to the marinade supply means for adding
marinade on or into the product, characterized in that, the device
comprises heating means for heating the marinade, in such a manner
that the heated marinade is added on or into the product.
35. Device according to claim 34, in which the heating means
comprise a melting device for melting marinade supplied in a solid
state.
36. Device according to claim 35, in which the melting device is
designed for melting marinade which was originally pulverulent.
37. Device according to claim 34, in which the marinade supply
means comprise a storage container for marinade, the device
comprising dispensing means with an adjustable flow rate for
dispensing marinade to the heating means.
38. Device according to claim 37, in which the dispensing means are
designed for dispensing marinade batchwise.
39. Device according to claim 34, in which the heating means
comprise one or more heated walls, with which the marinade comes
into contact, such that the marinade heats up and/or melts.
40. Device according to claim 34, in which the heating means are
designed for providing a heated gas with which the marinade comes
into contact, such that the marinade heats up and/or melts.
41. Device according to claim 34, in which the heating means
comprise advancing means for moving the marinade along the heated
wall.
42. Device according to claim 41, in which the advancing means
comprise a body which moves along the heated wall and together with
the wall forms a chamber for a batch of marinade.
43. Device according to claim 41, in which the heating means
comprise two opposite spaced-apart heated walls between which the
advancing means are situated.
44. Device according to claim 41, in which the advancing means is a
rotor.
45. Device according to claim 34, in which the heating means
comprise a heated bottom plate, a heated top plate, a rotor
arranged between the bottom plate and the top plate, and a drive
mechanism for rotating the rotor.
46. Device according to claim 34, in which the device is provided
with further heating means for heating the path for the marinade
from the heating means.
47. Device according to claim 34, in which a buffer store for
heated liquid marinade is situated between the heating means and
the addition means.
48. Device according to claim 47, in which heating means are
associated with the buffer store for keeping the marinade hot.
49. Device according to claim 47, in which an agitator is
associated with the buffer store, which can agitate the marinade in
the buffer store.
50. Device according to claim 47, in which the buffer store
comprises dispensing means with an adjustable flow rate for
dispensing marinade to the addition means.
51. Device according to claim 47, in which the buffer store
comprises a buffer vessel with a supply and discharge opening, and
an agitator which is active in the buffer vessel.
52. Device according to claim 34, in which a pump is arranged
between the heating means and the application means for supplying
marinade to the addition means.
53. Device according to claim 52, in which the pump is a hose
pump.
54. Device according to claim 34, in which the addition means are
injection means.
55. Device according to claim 34, in which the addition means
comprise a distributing element which comes into contact with the
product.
56. Device according to claim 34, in which the addition means are
spraying means.
57. (canceled)
58. (canceled)
59. (canceled)
60. Device according to claim 56, in which the spraying means
comprise gas supply means, which provide a gas stream with which
the marinade can be carried along to the product.
61. (canceled)
62. Device according to claim 60, in which gas stream heating means
are provided in order to heat the gas.
63. Device according to claim 56 and in which a mixing chamber is
provided in the spraying head, in such a manner that the marinade
stream and the gas mix inside the spraying head.
64. Device according to claim 56, in which a spraying head has an
inlet for marinade in powder form, and an inlet for a heated gas,
in such a manner that the heated gas melts the marinade and carries
it along to the product.
65. Device according to claim 34, in which the device comprises
conveying means which are designed for passing the products
successively in groups or individually in a conveyor track past the
marinade-addition device.
66. (canceled)
67. Device according to claim 34, in which screening means are
arranged behind the product, viewed from the direction of
addition.
68. (canceled)
69. (canceled)
70. Device according to claim 67, in which heating means are
associated with the screening means for heating the marinade which
lands on the screening means.
71. Device according to claim 70, in which a collecting unit is
arranged under the screening means for collecting heated marinade
which has landed on the screening means.
72. Device according to claim 71, in which a recycling device is
arranged between the collecting unit and the addition means for
recycling marinade collected in a collecting unit.
73. (canceled)
74. (canceled)
75. (canceled)
76. (canceled)
77. (canceled)
78. (canceled)
79. (canceled)
80. Device for electrostatically applying additive particles, to a
product suitable for human consumption, in comprising: at least one
charging electrode, additive supply means for supplying additive
particles to the charging electrode, and means for generating an
electric field between the electrode and the product, which has a
charge which is different from that of the electrode, characterized
in that at least one charging electrode is designed as a supporting
surface for the additive particles, in that the additive supply
means are designed for depositing the additive particles on the
charging electrode, and in that the means for generating the
electric field create a field such that the additive particles
leave the supporting surface and jump onto the product, which is at
a distance from the electrode.
81. Device according to claim 80, in which the device comprises
conveying means which are designed for passing the products
successively in groups or individually in a conveyor track past the
charging electrode.
82. Device according to claim 80, in which the electrode is
elongated and extends along the conveyor track.
83. Device according to claim 80, in which the device comprises
rotation means which enable the products to rotate relative to the
charging electrode.
84. (canceled)
85. (canceled)
86. Device according to claim 80, in which the additive supply
means comprise a buffer store with discharge opening and dosing
means for supplying the additive particles to the charging
electrode in a dosed manner.
87. (canceled)
88. Device according to claim 86, in which a vibrating plate is
arranged between the discharge opening and the charging
electrode.
89. (canceled)
90. (canceled)
91. (canceled)
92. (canceled)
93. (canceled)
94. (canceled)
95. (canceled)
96. (canceled)
97. (canceled)
98. (canceled)
99. (canceled)
100. (canceled)
101. Device for adding marinade to a product suitable for human
consumption, comprising: marinade supply means, spraying means
which are connected to the marinade supply means for adding
marinade on or into the product, conveying means which are designed
for passing the products successively in groups or individually in
a conveyor track past the marinade-addition device characterized in
that, the device comprises heating means for heating the marinade,
in such a manner that the heated marinade is sprayed on the
product, and in that a buffer store for heated liquid marinade is
situated between the heating means and the addition means, in which
the heating means are associated with the buffer store for keeping
the marinade hot.
102. Method according to claim 5, wherein memory means is used
furthermore in such a manner aht the result of the visual
inspection station of every product carried on the second conveyor
is known.
Description
[0001] A first aspect of the invention relates to the treatment of
a product suitable for human consumption, in particular a meat
product, such as for example slaughtered poultry or parts thereof,
in which treatment an additive is added to at least one part of the
product.
[0002] From the prior art, installations for slaughtering and
processing poultry are known, in which a large number of birds to
be slaughtered are placed in a slaughter line and subsequently
killed and divided into parts.
[0003] It is known to provide these installations with an
inspection station where each bird, prior to being divided into
parts, is subjected to a visual inspection. Some inspection systems
in this case view a bird in its entirety and, based on this
inspection, determine a quality grade for the bird, on the basis of
which a decision is made regarding how to proceed with the bird.
More refined inspection systems are already capable of inspecting
partial areas of the bird and to assign a quality grade to every
partial area. Thus, it is known to detect discolourations, damaged
skin and other defects.
[0004] With slaughtering installations known from the prior art,
parts of the birds with specific visually detectable defects are
ejected. These parts of the birds are then often marinated in a
batch process, usually in a tumbler, so that the marinade makes the
defects less visible.
[0005] Currently, however, there is an increasing demand for
marinated poultry products, so that it is no longer appropriate to
treat marinated products as a "stream of residue". It is
particularly desirable to optimize the production method further in
order to be able to meet the demand, supply the desired quality
and, of course, make the cost price attractive.
[0006] It is an object of the present invention to propose an
improved method and associated equipment to this end.
[0007] The first aspect of the invention provides a method for
treating a product suitable for human consumption, in particular a
meat product, such as for example slaughtered poultry or parts
thereof, in which method:
[0008] a large number of products are successively supplied,
optionally in groups, to an inspection station; and
[0009] each product is subjected to an inspection in the inspection
station, preferably a visual inspection, in such a manner that, for
example, a visually detectable defect on the respective product is
detected.
[0010] This method is characterized in that:
[0011] subsequently, on the basis of the visual inspection, a
decision is made as to whether the respective product should be
subjected to an additive-addition treatment,
[0012] which products to be subjected to an additive-addition
treatment are successively supplied to an additive-addition
station, where the products are successively subjected to an
additive-addition treatment and an additive is added to at least
one part of the outside of each product or the inside each
product.
[0013] In other words, the invention provides that a determination
is made, based on the inspection of a specific product, as to
whether that specific product should be subjected to a specific
additive-addition treatment, instead of more or less rejecting the
product and ejecting all rejected products and subsequently, if
appropriate, choosing an additive-addition treatment for the batch
of ejected products. In this case, it is possible to determine,
both on the basis of a visual inspection of the product and on the
basis of another parameter, such as weight or magnitude, whether
the respective product should be subjected to a specific
additive-addition treatment. It is, for example, possible to treat
only chicken parts of a desired size, for example of equal size,
size below a specific maximum or size above a specific minimum. The
weight may be determined by weighing. The magnitude may be
determined by means of, for example, the same visual inspection
means, for example by determining the surface area of the product
on a screen or photograph.
[0014] The first aspect of the invention furthermore provides that
no "batch" products are produced for subjecting to an
additive-addition treatment, but that products are successively
supplied to an additive-addition station and are treated
successively. In addition, a stream of products which have been
successively treated with additive is thus obtained, which is
advantageous for downstream installations, such as for example a
packaging installation.
[0015] As mentioned above, known slaughtering installations for
poultry are already provided with inspection stations comprising
inspection equipment, usually a camera with associated
image-processing means, so that the method is advantageously
brought about by providing the known slaughtering installation with
an additive-addition station. Moreover, slaughtering installations
are often provided with weighing installations for determining the
weight of the product.
[0016] In one possible embodiment, a visual check of the additive
coating is carried out in a checking station after the additive has
been applied. In this case, it is for example possible to check
whether a visual defect has been sufficiently hidden from view by
the additive or whether to reject the product and/or to repeat the
additive coating.
[0017] The weight may also be used as a check measure in the
checking station. If the weight of the untreated product has been
determined earlier, for example during a first selection of
products which are subjected to an additive-addition treatment, for
example in the inspection station, the checking station can then
determine whether the treated product has increased sufficiently in
weight, that is to say, whether sufficient additive material has
been added.
[0018] With the embodiments according to the invention, such as for
example with a device comprising heating means or a device for
electrostatically adding additive particles, it is conceivable that
only the weight is determined in the inspection station and no
further visual inspection takes place. It can then be decided on
the basis of this weight whether the respective product should be
subjected to the additive-addition treatment. In one embodiment, a
checking station may be arranged downstream in order to determine
the weight of the product again and on the basis thereof it can
then be decided whether sufficient additive has been added.
[0019] With an alternative method, the decision whether a product
should be subjected to a specific additive-addition treatment is
taken on the basis of the weight of the respective product
determined in an inspection station. A visual check of the additive
coating is subsequently carried out in a checking station.
[0020] Thus, for example, weighing is carried out in the inspection
station by means of a first weighing apparatus. The weight can be
determined again in the checking station using a second weighing
apparatus, following which the difference can be calculated. It is
also possible to carry out a differential weighing operation using
a differential weighing apparatus. In addition, it is possible to
integrate a weighing device with the carrier. Preferably, the
device according to the invention is provided with recycling means,
so that if it is found, during the visual check and/or the weight
check, that insufficient additive has been applied to the product,
the product can be recycled to the additive-addition device.
[0021] Preferably, the checking station is designed to carry out
various visual checks, the visual check of a specific product being
adapted to the previous visual inspection of the respective product
prior to the application of the additive.
[0022] By way of example, if a visually detectable defect was found
at a certain location on the product during the previous visual
inspection, in particular the additive application in said location
would be checked during the check.
[0023] The expression various visual checks can thus, inter alia,
be understood to mean a check directed at a specific location
and/or a check directed at a specific defect which was detected
earlier. In the latter case, it is conceivable to adapt the check
to the fact that a blue discolouration or a red discolouration were
detected earlier on a (part of a) poultry.
[0024] In one embodiment which is advantageous in practice,
provision is made for the products to be conveyed past an
inspection station by means of a first conveyor which is provided
with a separate carrier for the product or group of products, a
second conveyor being associated with the additive-addition
station, with a separate carrier for each product or group of
products, a transfer station being provided between the first and
second conveyor, memory means being used furthermore in such a
manner that the result of the visual inspection carried out in the
inspection station of every product carried on the second conveyor
is known.
[0025] The embodiment described above makes it possible to add an
additive-addition line with its own conveyor to an existing
slaughter installation, the transfer station (suitable embodiments
of which are well known in the field) effecting the transfer of a
(part of a) poultry to the additive-addition line. In this case,
the information obtained during the earlier inspection for every
product introduced into the additive-addition line remains known,
so that it can be used during the execution and optimization of the
additive addition.
[0026] In a slaughtering installation, the poultry is usually
subjected to one or more dividing operations, in which a product is
divided into parts. The additive treatment may involve each of
those parts, but preferably specific parts, such as for example the
fillets, legs and the like, are treated.
[0027] In one advantageous embodiment, which has already being used
in slaughtering installations, the visual inspection takes place
before the one or more dividing operations.
[0028] In one advantageous embodiment, the additive-addition device
is designed to carry out various additive-addition treatments, the
treatment of a specific product being adapted to the previous
visual inspection of the respective product, possibly in
combination with data relating to the weight of the product.
[0029] For example, the amount of additive to be applied may vary
and the amount of additive to be applied to a specific product is
adapted to the previous visual inspection of the respective
product. Another example which may be mentioned is that the
location of the application of the additive of a product may vary,
the additive to be applied to a specific product being directed at
one or more specific locations which are chosen on the basis of the
prior visual inspection of the respective product.
[0030] In one advantageous embodiment, the additive-addition
station is fitted with an addition device, which addition device
dispenses additive at a distance from the product, which additive
moves towards the product through the air and at least partially
lands on the product.
[0031] Preferably, provision has been made in this case for
additive which has not landed on the product to be collected and
returned to the addition device.
[0032] In one possible embodiment, the returned additive is
subjected to a reprocessing treatment before the additive is
dispensed again.
[0033] A second aspect of the present invention relates to a method
and device for adding marinade on or into a product suitable for
human consumption, in particular a meat product, such as for
example slaughtered polutry or parts thereof.
[0034] From the prior art, various ways for adding a marinade on or
into a product suitable for human consumption are known. WO
00/32051 describes various methods for applying marinade by
spraying, which in practice does not always lead to satisfactory
results.
[0035] It is an object of the second aspect of the present
invention to provide an alternative method for adding marinade.
[0036] With the method according to the second aspect of the
invention, the marinade is heated prior to being added. As a result
of being heated, the marinade is easier to process and other
marinade compositions are easier to process than has been the case
hitherto.
[0037] The second aspect of the invention also provides a device
which comprises heating means and application means for the
marinade. The marinade is in this case first passed along the
heating means and subsequently to the application means along a
preferably heated path. Preferably between 0.5 and 4% by weight as
a percentage of the product weight is added as marinade.
[0038] According to a first embodiment, the heating means comprise
a melting device. A melting device can turn solid marinade into
liquid marinade. Advantageously, marinade can be supplied to the
heating means which is delivered in a solid state. This may be, for
example, mixtures of spices and fats, which have been compressed to
form solid bars or blocks, or which are delivered in the form of
powders. The marinade may also be mixed with a liquid substance,
such as for example oil, before being supplied to heating means. It
is possible that parts of the marinade which are in a solid state
do not melt; in that case, it is important that the mass as a whole
is viscous.
[0039] In one embodiment of the invention, the marinade is heated
or melted by bringing it into contact with a heated wall. This wall
is heated with the aid of, for example, water. Advantageously, the
marinade is advanced along the wall, so that the marinade reaches
the temperature of the wall and maintains it. In the case of
melting marinades, it is important that the temperature of the
marinade to be processed is between the melting temperature and the
degradation temperature. When the marinade cools down, for example
because it is too far from the heated wall, solidification may
occur as a result of which it is no longer possible to process the
marinade. Excessive temperatures should also be avoided as
ingredients of the marinade could then decompose or degrade. This
is particularly important when frictional heat is created as
well.
[0040] Advantageously, the advancing means create chambers in which
the marinade moves along one or more heated walls as a result of
which marinade can be discharged in batches. An advantage of these
chambers is that the powder does not have to be dosed exactly
beforehand. The advancing means may, for example, consist of a
rotor. Preferably, the speed of the advancing means is adjustable,
so that the mass to be melted per unit time and the desired
temperature can be adjusted. Preferably, the distance between the
advancing means and the heated wall is adjustable, so that the
marinade preferably melts in a thin layer, without too much
frictional heat being created or particles becoming lodged between
the wall and the advancing means. Preferably, the distance is
between 0.5 and 2.0 millimetres, depending on the marinade.
[0041] In another embodiment, the marinade may be heated by
bringing the marinade into contact with a heated gas. This gas may
also serve as an aid for processing the marinade further, for
example when it is sprayed on.
[0042] Advantageously, the volume of marinade in the entire device,
in particular downstream of the heating location, is small, such as
for example the abovementioned chambers, so that the loss of
marinade when the addition process is stopped, is also small. For
example, the time during which the heated marinade is in the device
from melting to addition is at most 20 minutes.
[0043] In one embodiment, the entire path along which the heated
marinade moves to the addition means, is heated. This may be, for
example, lines, hoses, connecting pieces and the like. The hoses
may be, for example, electrically heated hoses. Preferably, as few
connecting pieces as possible are used, so that when the addition
of marinade is stopped, problems involving solidifying marinade are
prevented. Preferably, all transitions in the path are gradual,
thus preventing solid parts of the marinade from staying behind.
More preferably, the path is designed such that when the process is
stopped, the path automatically empties to a large degree, thus
preventing sagging of the hoses.
[0044] Advantageously, a (for example electrically) heated buffer
store is present between the heating means and the addition means,
in which buffer store the molten marinade can be stored and to
which excess marinade can be returned. The latter will be discussed
in more detail below. The contents of the buffer store are
preferably small, for example between 100 ml and 5 litres.
Preferably, agitation means are present in the buffer store, in
order to contribute to the temperature of the marinade remaining
between the melting temperature and the decomposition temperature.
Preferably, the flow rate of the buffer store can be adjusted, so
that the supply of marinade to the addition means can be
controlled.
[0045] Advantageously, a pump is placed between the heating means
and the application means in order to advance the liquid marinade.
This pump is preferably a hose pump.
[0046] Preferably, the addition means are heated.
[0047] In one embodiment of the invention, the addition means for
adding the heated marinade are injection means. This method is
advantageous if, for example, it is desired that the marinade has
an effect on the flavour, but it is not desired that the appearance
of the product changes much.
[0048] In another embodiment, the addition of the marinade is
effected through applying the marinade to a distributing element,
such as for example, a brush or a sponge-like medium. The
distributing element is brought into contact with the product in
order in this way to transfer the marinade.
[0049] In one advantageous embodiment, the addition of the marinade
is effected by means of a spraying process. The spraying means
comprise at least one opening, which is preferably located in a
spraying head. The diameter of the spraying opening is preferably
between 1-15 millimetres, particularly preferably between 5 and 10
millimetres. With an opening with such dimensions, it is also
possible to spray relatively large ingredients which are not
meltable. In this context, consideration may be given to capsicum
particles, pepper particles, etc. The spraying head may be arranged
so as to be stationary or movable.
[0050] Advantageously, the marinade is sprayed with the aid of
pressurized gas, for example air. Mixing of the gas and the
marinade may take place in a mixing chamber inside the spraying
head, but also outside the spraying opening. Advantageously, the
gas is heated in order to prevent the marinade from solidifying
before it reaches the product.
[0051] Advantageously, the addition means for adding the heated
marinade are used in a device for processing large quantities of
products. Preferably, the addition of marinade takes place in a
continuous process. In one preferred embodiment, the products are
conveyed past the addition means successively in groups or
individually by means of conveying means. In one variant, the
products are cooled prior to the application of marinade.
[0052] When the application means are in the form of, for example,
a spraying device, it is advantageous to arrange screening means
between the product and a part of the conveying means so that at
least a part of the conveying means is screened off during the
application process. When the conveying means are, for example,
carriers, a seal can be fitted on the narrowest part of the
carrier. More advantageously, screening means may also be provided
behind the product, viewed from the direction of addition, or
around the product and the spraying means. This prevents the
components of the marinade from spreading in the surroundings (air,
carriers, other surfaces). In one embodiment, such a screened-off
(but not sealed-off) space may be heated in order to control the
solidification process of the marinade applied to the product.
[0053] Advantageously, the screening means are heated so that the
marinade which lands on it remains warm and liquid. As a result,
the marinade can be removed and/or run off and be collected, for
example into a collecting unit placed under the screening
means.
[0054] Advantageously, the marinade which has landed on the
screening means is recycled, so that the marinade can be re-used.
This may be effected, for example, by collecting the marinade and
allowing it to solidify so that it can be resupplied to the device
later. It is also possible to recycle the still liquid collected
marinade to a buffer store which has been placed between the
melting unit and the addition means. Advantageously, this recycled
marinade is filtered in order to prevent parts which impede the
progress of the process, for example feathers, fibres or pieces
which have come off the product, from falling into the marinade to
be added.
[0055] In one advantageous embodiment, the device according to the
invention comprises an air extraction installation in order to
prevent pollution of the surroundings and accumulation of marinade
in the installation. This air extraction installation may be fitted
with an air-purification installation such as one or more filters
for filtering the air. In this manner, the marinade is separated
from the air. The input for such an extraction installation may be
located, inter alia, in the screened-off space where the addition
of marinade takes place. By creating a partial vacuum in the
screened-off space, the air can be sucked out. Other locations
where aromas may escape, for example the buffer store, may be
fitted with an air-extraction installation. Preferably, the filter
is a heated centrifugal filter, optionally in combination with a
preliminary filter. A preliminary filter may serve for separating a
large part of the marinade from the air stream, and in particular
the relatively large and solid parts of the marinade. The
relatively fine droplets and particles can subsequently be removed
by the centrifugal filter. The preliminary filter is preferably
also heated. An air filter which is known per se may be used as
preliminary filter. Preferably, the preliminary filter is mounted
at an angle so that the liquid marinade can flow away and can be
collected. This marinade may, for example, be supplied to a
recycling device.
[0056] Advantageously, the device for adding marinade is part of a
production line for meat products into which the products to be
marinated are introduced, for example by hand. In one advantageous
embodiment, the products are attached to carriers by means of which
the products are conveyed. In order to marinate as large an area of
the meat as possible, it is important for the contact surface
between the carrier and the product to be as small as possible.
[0057] After the introduction, the product is optionally subjected
to a preliminary treatment, such as for example dusting the product
with flour. Downstream of the device according to the invention, a
product release unit is arranged, after which the products can be
packaged. The conveying device is subsequently cleaned, after which
new products can be suspended from it.
[0058] Advantageously, one or more devices according to the
invention form part of an intelligent system, in which, depending
on the demand, a certain amount of product is provided with one
marinade and another amount of product or another part of the
product is provided with another marinade. It is also possible
first to convey the products past a camera, following which a
selection of the products to be marinated can be made.
[0059] A third aspect of the invention relates to a method and
device for electrostatically applying additive particles, such as
garnishing leaves or dusting products, on a product suitable for
human consumption, in particular a meat product, such as
slaughtered poultry or parts thereof.
[0060] A known device of this type comprises a charging electrode,
additive supply means for supplying additive particles to the
charging electrode and means for generating an electric field
between the electrode and the product, which has a charge which
differs from that of the electrode.
[0061] Various ways are known in the prior art for
electrostatically applying additive particles to a product suitable
for human consumption. WO 00/32051 describes various methods for
electrostatically applying additives, in particular electrostatic
spraying. In this case, the charging electrode is designed as a
nozzle, through which the marinade is sprayed by means of a gas.
This method has proved to be unsatisfactory for applying additive
particles such as garnishing leaves. WO 9302573 describes an
additive-addition device in which the additive particles pass
through an electric field as a result of which charged additive
particles land on the product. This device has also proved to be
unsatisfactory in practice.
[0062] It is an object of the third aspect of the present invention
to provide an alternative method for electrostatically applying
additive particles.
[0063] With the method according to the third aspect of the
invention, the additive particles are deposited on the charging
electrode. The charging electrode is designed as a supporting
surface. A charge is applied to the electrode, while the product is
earthed or is given a charge which differs from that of the
electrode. For example, the products are connected to electrically
conductive conveying means which are earthed. As a result of the
electric field which is generated in this way, the additive
particles charged on or near the electrode leave the supporting
surface and jump onto the product, which is at a distance to the
electrode.
[0064] The third aspect of the invention also provides a device
which comprises additive supply means which supply additive
particles to a charging electrode which is designed as a supporting
surface. In addition, there are means for generating an electric
field such that the additive particles leave the supporting surface
and jump onto the product, which is at a distance to the
electrode.
[0065] According to a first embodiment, the electrostatic device is
used in a device for processing large quantities of products.
Preferably, the additive particles are added in a continuous
process. In a preferred embodiment, the products are successively
conveyed past the additive particles addition device in groups or
individually by means of conveying means.
[0066] In one preferred embodiment, a number of electrodes are
present, for example for the top and bottom sides of the
product.
[0067] Preferably, the charging electrode is designed to be
elongated and extends along the conveyor track for the products.
With an embodiment of this type, the supply of additive particles
to the charging electrode and the application of the additive
particles on the product may take place continuously.
[0068] In a more advantageous embodiment, the charging electrode
has a length such that a number of products can be opposite the
charging electrode simultaneously, so that the additive particles
can simultaneously jump onto a number of products. This is possible
in the following situation. When the conveying means for the
products comprise carriers which are arranged at a distance from
one another, the distance between the products is known. When the
length of the charging electrode is greater than this distance
between them, there will always be more than one product opposite
the electrode.
[0069] In another advantageous embodiment, the products move along
in their conveying direction while the additive particles jump
over. As a result, the product gradually becomes covered with the
additive particles.
[0070] In another advantageous embodiment, the products can be
positioned while the garnishing products are jumping over, to that
they can reach as many parts of the product as possible when the
charging electrode is only disposed on one side of the product.
[0071] Advantageously, a buffer store containing additive particles
is present and dosing means in order to set the quantity of
particles to be supplied to the products per unit time and, if
required, adjust this quantity depending on the number of products
and the type of additive to be applied. When a number of electrodes
have been positioned, the distribution per electrode can also be
set to be different for each electrode. In another advantageous
embodiment, means are present for distributing the additive, so
that the supply to the electrode is evenly distributed. The
distribution of the additives should be even with regard to time as
well as place. Means for adjusting the dosage and distribution may
be, for example, a hopper, a rotating scraper or slots. It is
likewise possible to use a vibrating plate. Advantageously, the
vibrating plate is arranged at a slight inclination between the
discharge opening of the buffer store and the elongated charging
electrode, the charging electrode adjoining the edge of the
vibrating plate, but is arranged slightly lower than the vibrating
plate. As a result, the additive particles will gradually land on
the charging electrode. A vibrating plate can be used for
distributing and evening out the supply of additives, but also for
loosening any lumps of additive.
[0072] Advantageously, screening means are arranged between the
product and a part of the conveying means for the products, so that
at least part of the transport means is screened off while the
additive particles are being added. More advantageously, screening
means are also arranged behind the product, viewed in the direction
of addition, or around the product. Thus, the additive particles
are prevented from spreading in the surroundings.
[0073] Advantageously, a collecting unit is placed under the
screening means in order to collect the additives which have not
landed on the product (`overshoot`). More advantageously, the
screening means and the collecting unit are made of an insulating
material in order to prevent additives from leaking into the
surroundings. In addition, surfaces of conductive material may be
arranged in the space created by the screening means and the
collecting unit which can affect the movement of the additive
particles and thus prevent matter from escaping to the
surroundings. In one embodiment, both surfaces are earthed. In
another embodiment, a voltage has been applied between the
surfaces.
[0074] Even more advantageously, the additive particles from the
collecting unit are recycled, so that the particles can be reused.
Recycling may take place to the vibrating plate. Advantageously,
this recycling stream is filtered in order to prevent large parts,
for example pieces which have come off the product, from ending up
among the additive particles.
[0075] The invention also relates to a method for applying an
additive, in particular a marinade, to a product suitable for human
consumption, in particular a meat product, such as for example
slaughtered poultry or parts thereof, in which additive is applied
in an additive-application station using an addition device, which
addition device discharges additive at a distance from the product,
which additive moves to the product through the air and part of
which lands on the product, and additive which has not landed on
the product is collected and returned to the addition device.
[0076] Preferably, the additive application station is fitted with
a conveyor having a separate carrier for every bird or part
thereof, so that the products are conveyed past the addition
device.
[0077] Preferably, the returned additive is subjected to a
reprocessing treatment before the additive is dispensed again.
[0078] The invention will be explained in more detail below with
reference to the drawing, in which:
[0079] FIG. 1 diagrammatically shows a slaughterhouse for
slaughtering and processing poultry fitted with an
additive-addition device according to the invention;
[0080] FIG. 2 shows a representation of a part of FIG. 1 on a
larger scale with the additive-addition device;
[0081] FIG. 3 shows an example of an inspection station in the
slaughterhouse of FIG. 1;
[0082] FIG. 4a, b diagrammatically shows the assignment of a
quality grade to an entire bird and to specific parts of a bird,
respectively;
[0083] FIG. 5 shows an exemplary embodiment of the device according
to the second aspect of the invention;
[0084] FIG. 6 shows a first diagrammatic representation of heating
means;
[0085] FIG. 7 shows a second diagrammatic representation of heating
means;
[0086] FIG. 8 shows a third diagrammatic representation of heating
means;
[0087] FIG. 9 shows a diagrammatic representation of a buffer
store;
[0088] FIG. 10 shows a first diagrammatic representation of
addition means;
[0089] FIG. 11 shows a second diagrammatic representation of
addition means;
[0090] FIG. 12 shows a third diagrammatic representation of
addition means;
[0091] FIG. 13 shows a fourth diagrammatic representation of
addition means;
[0092] FIG. 14 shows an embodiment of the conveying means;
[0093] FIG. 15 shows a second embodiment of the conveying
means;
[0094] FIG. 16 shows an embodiment of screening means for screening
off the surroundings;
[0095] FIG. 17 shows an embodiment of screening means for screening
off the conveying means;
[0096] FIG. 18 shows the positioning of the device according to the
second aspect of the invention in a production line;
[0097] FIGS. 19 and 20 show an embodiment of a suspension
device;
[0098] FIG. 21 shows a perspective view of a device according to
the second aspect of the invention;
[0099] FIG. 22 shows a cut-away perspective view of a device
according to the second aspect of the invention;
[0100] FIG. 23 shows a sketch of a possible embodiment of a release
device;
[0101] FIGS. 24 and 25 show embodiments of cleaning devices for the
conveying means;
[0102] FIG. 26 shows another possible embodiment of the device
according to the second aspect of the invention;
[0103] FIG. 27 shows yet another possible embodiment of the device
according to the second aspect of the invention;
[0104] FIG. 28 shows yet another possible embodiment of the device
according to the second aspect of the invention;
[0105] FIG. 29 shows a diagrammatic overview of the device
according to the third aspect of the invention;
[0106] FIG. 30 shows a second preferred embodiment of the device
according to the third aspect of the invention;
[0107] FIG. 31 shows a detail of a preferred embodiment of the
device;
[0108] FIG. 32 shows a possible recycling device;
[0109] FIG. 33 shows another possible recycling device;
[0110] FIG. 34 shows yet another possible recycling device;
[0111] FIG. 35 shows yet another possible recycling device again;
and
[0112] FIG. 36 shows a sectional view of an additive-addition
device according to the invention,
[0113] FIGS. 37a and b show an embodiment of a preliminary
filter.
[0114] FIG. 1 diagrammatically shows a plant for slaughtering and
processing poultry, where birds are supplied in crates or the like
at 201 and placed in conveyor 202, a separate carrier being
provided for each bird. The birds are subsequently killed and
prepared so that the birds can be divided into parts.
[0115] Prior to being divided into parts, the birds pass an
inspection station 203, where each bird is subjected to an
inspection, preferably a visual inspection, in such a manner that,
for example, a visually detectable defect on the respective product
is detected.
[0116] FIG. 3 shows such an inspection station 203 provided with a
digital camera 204 and an associated image-processing computer 207.
The conveyor 202 has a guide track 205 along which the carriers 206
for each bird can be displaced. As mentioned, such a station is
known per se from the prior art and already present in
slaughterhouses.
[0117] The station 203, for example, is used to detect a
discolouration of the birds. As indicated in FIG. 4, there are
inspection stations which are able to assign a quality grade to an
entire bird (FIG. 4a), for example quality A, B or C, but there are
also more complicated stations which assign a quality grade to
specific parts, for example legs, wings, body, etc. (FIG. 4b).
[0118] The station 203 is coupled to a control and memory means 210
of the slaughterhouse, which control and memory means 210 is
connected in turn to an additive-addition line 220 still to be
explained (see also FIG. 2).
[0119] Based on the visual inspection in station 203, a decision is
made as to whether the respective (part of a) bird is to be
subjected to a specific additive-addition treatment. This may be
the case, for example, if a part of a leg is found to have a
discolouration.
[0120] In an embodiment which is advantageous in practice, the
additive is a substance which is suitable for human consumption,
for example a substance which affects the colour and/or taste, such
as a marinade, for example a particulate marinade.
[0121] The additive-addition line 220 comprises one or more
additive-addition stations 221, 224 and a conveyor 222 having a
separate carrier for every (part of a) bird to be treated. A
transfer station 230 is provided between the conveyor 222 of the
additive-addition line 220 and the upstream conveyor of the
slaughtering installation, so that the parts of the birds are
transferred successively.
[0122] During the transfer of the parts of the birds, the memory
means 210 ensure that the results of the visual inspection carried
out in the inspection station 203 of every product carried by the
conveyor 222 are known in order to carry out and/or optimize the
additive addition.
[0123] At the additive-addition stations 221, 224, the parts of the
birds are successively subjected to an additive-addition treatment
and an additive is applied to at least a part of the exterior of
every bird. In one variant, additive could be introduced into a
part of the bird.
[0124] In one possible embodiment, a visual check is carried out in
a checking station 240 after the application of additive has been
completed. The station 240 is for example fitted with a digital
camera and associated image-processing equipment.
[0125] The checking station 240, which in this case is also
connected to the control and memory means 210, is for example set
up for carrying out various visual checks, the visual check of a
specific product being adapted to the previous visual inspection of
the respective product prior to the application of additive. If,
for example, a visually detectable defect was found at a certain
location of the product during a previous visual inspection in the
station 203, in particular the application of additive in said
location is checked during the check in station 240.
[0126] In one possible embodiment, provision is made for the
additive-addition device to be designed to carry out various
additive-addition treatments, the treatment of a specific product
being adapted to the previous visual inspection of the respective
product. The amount of additive to be applied is, for example,
variable and the amount of additive to be applied to a specific
product is adapted to the previous visual inspection of the
respective product.
[0127] Provision could also be made for the location for applying
an additive on a product to be variable, the additive to be applied
to a specific product being directed at one or more specific
locations which are chosen on the basis of the previous visual
inspection of the respective product.
[0128] As will become clear from the description below, provision
can be made for an additive-addition station to be fitted with an
addition device, which addition device dispenses additive at a
distance from the product, which additive moves towards the product
through the air and at least partially lands on the product. In
this case, it is advantageous if additive which has not landed on
the product is collected and returned to the addition device. If
desired, the returned additive is subjected to a reprocessing
treatment before the additive is dispensed again.
[0129] FIG. 5 diagrammatically shows a device for applying marinade
to products, in particular meat products, according to the second
aspect of the invention.
[0130] On the left in FIG. 5, the marinade 1 which is in a storage
container 7 can be seen. The arrangement shown is designed for
processing pulverulent marinade, for example mixtures of spices and
fats. Marinade supply means 3 supply the marinade 1 to the heating
means 5. The heating means can be designed in the form of a melting
device which melts marinade supplied in a solid state. The
temperature to which the marinade is to be heated has to be
controlled: if the temperature is too low, solidification will
occur and if the temperature is too high, segregation or the like
may occur. Preferably, a solid marinade containing fat is used,
which marinade melts at a temperature of approximately 55.degree.
C. and is applied at a temperature of approximately 70.degree.
C.
[0131] The marinade supply means 3 comprise dispensing means on the
storage container 7, the flow rate of which is preferably
adjustable. The marinade supply means 3 can also be designed such
that the marinade is dispensed batchwise. The marinade supply means
3 may also comprise a sieve in order to reduce the maximum particle
size of the pulverulent marinade. A possible embodiment of the
marinade supply means is a marinade powder dosing device (not
shown) . The marinade supply means 3 also comprise one or more
ducts through or along which the marinade 1 moves, such as for
example tubes.
[0132] The marinade 1 is moved via a path 30 to the addition means
4. This path 30 comprises one or more ducts through or along which
the marinade 1 can move, such as for example hoses. The device
according to the invention is provided with further heating means
17 for heating the path 30. The path 30 includes a pump 21 for
pumping the marinade 1, which pump is preferably a hose pump and is
also preferably heated.
[0133] This path 30 likewise preferably includes a buffer store 18.
The marinade is applied to a product 2 which is at a distance from
the addition means 4.
[0134] The meat products 2, onto which marinade is applied, are
moved along by means of conveying means 31. These conveying means
31 are designed such that the products 2 pass the addition means 4
separately, one behind the other, in a conveyor track 6. In this
example, every product 2 is suspended from a carrier 8 which is
connected to the conveyor track 6 and which are arranged at a
distance from one another.
[0135] Behind the product 2, viewed in the direction of addition,
there is arranged a screening wall 33 on which the marinade 1 which
does not land on the product 2 is collected. Preferably, this
screening wall 33 is heated. Under the products 2 and under the
screening wall 33, there is a collecting unit 36 in which the
marinade which does not land on the product and not on the
screening wall 33 is collected, and to which the marinade 1 which
has landed on the screening wall 33 flows. The marinade collected
in the collecting unit 36 is returned in this example by means of a
recycling device 37, in this case to the buffer store 18 or to the
heating means 5. The recycling device 37 in this case comprises a
sieve 35, placed in the collecting unit 36 before the marinade 1
enters the recycling device 37, in order to prevent large parts,
for example parts of the meat products, blocking the device.
[0136] The device illustrated also comprises an air extraction
installation 28, in this case placed near the screening wall 33
behind the product 2 onto which the marinade 1 is sprayed.
Preferably, this air extraction installation 28 comprises an air
purification installation with a filter for collecting marinade
droplets or marinade particles. In particular, the filter is a
centrifugal filter, which may optionally be heated.
[0137] FIGS. 6-8 show diagrammatic representations of variants of
heating means 5. Such heating means 5 may be arranged in the
position of the heating means 5 in the installation shown in FIG.
5.
[0138] The heating means in FIGS. 6 and 7 at least comprise a
heated wall 9 with which the marinade 1, supplied via the marinade
supply means 3, comes into contact. As a result, the marinade heats
up or melts. In addition, advancing means 11 are shown which move
the marinade along the heated wall 9. The advancing means 11 are
driven by means of drive means 16. In FIG. 6, these advancing means
11 are designed as a rotor which is arranged between two heated
walls 9. The advancing means 11 create chambers 12 containing the
marinade, as a result of which the marinade is moved along and
heated batchwise.
[0139] The heating means shown in FIG. 8 comprise a mixing chamber
14 in which the marinade 1, supplied by the marinade supply means
3, ends up. In addition, a heated gas is supplied to this mixing
chamber 14 by means of the gas supply means 10. The marinade 1 is
heated in the mixing chamber 14 and/or melted under the influence
of the heated gas. If the gas is supplied under pressure, it is
possible for the illustrated heating means to also form part of the
addition means 4, if the addition is carried out by means of
spraying. This will be addressed again later on.
[0140] In all the cases illustrated, the heated marinade 1 leaves
the heating means 5 through an outlet 13 to the path 30.
[0141] FIG. 9 diagrammatically shows an exemplary embodiment of a
buffer store 18, such as has been arranged in the device shown in
FIG. 5. The buffer store 18 preferably comprises heating means,
such as heated walls, in order to ensure that the marinade 1 heated
by the heating means 5 remains warm. Furthermore, the buffer store
18 comprises an agitator 19 for keeping the marinade moving. The
marinade 1 reaches the buffer store via the path 30 and also leaves
the buffer store by the path 30. The buffer store comprises an
outlet 20, the flow rate of which is preferably adjustable.
[0142] FIGS. 10-13 show possible embodiments of marinade-addition
means 4. Such addition means may be arranged in the position of the
addition means 4 in the installation shown in FIG. 5. The marinade
1 is supplied to the addition means 4 by the path 30.
[0143] In FIG. 10, the addition means 4 are injection means 22
which can inject the marinade 1 into the product 2.
[0144] In FIG. 11, the addition means 4 comprise distribution means
23 which come into contact with the product 2 and are thus able to
apply the marinade 1 directly onto the product 2.
[0145] The addition means 4 shown in FIG. 12 comprise spraying
means 24. These spraying means 24 comprise a spraying opening 25
having a diameter of between 1 and 15 millimetres, preferably
between 5 and 10 millimetres. Such a spraying opening is also
referred to as a nozzle. The diameter affects the appearance of the
marinade on the product. With a sufficiently large diameter,
relatively large, solid particles, for example with a size of 5 mm,
can be sprayed on. The spraying opening 25 is located in a spraying
head 26, which is optionally arranged to be movable. Preferably all
the elements which make up the spraying means 24 are heated. The
amount of marinade applied is inter alia determined by the spraying
opening, the total amount is preferably between 0.5 and 4% by
weight as a percentage of the product weight.
[0146] The spraying means 24 also comprise a gas supply 27 which
provides a gas stream which carries the marinade 1 along to the
product 2. This gas may be air. Preferably, heating means are
present so as to also heat this gas stream. Mixing of the gas
stream with the marinade 1 can take place in a mixing chamber 29 in
front of the opening 25, in the spraying head 26, or just behind
the opening 25, as illustrated in FIG. 13. A particular embodiment
has already been shown in FIG. 8, in which the mixing chamber,
designated there by reference numeral 14, also serves as a heating
means. The heated gas stream 10 can subsequently carry the heated
marinade 1 along to the product 2.
[0147] FIG. 14 shows an embodiment of the conveying means 31. In
this case, the products 2 are suspended from carriers 8 which are
connected to the conveyor track 6. FIG. 14 shows an embodiment of
the conveying means 31 in which rotation means 15 are arranged
between the carriers 8 and the conveyor track 6, as a result of
which the products can rotate.
[0148] FIG. 15 shows conveying means 31 in which the products are
situated on the conveyor belt 45.
[0149] FIG. 16 shows an embodiment of screening means behind the
product 2 which form a screened-off space 34. This forms a more
comprehensive screening off from the surroundings than the
screening wall 33 shown in FIG. 5. As a result thereof, marinade
mist is not able to spread in the surroundings. For the sake of
clarity, the addition means 4 have not been shown in FIG. 16. Like
the screening wall 33 from FIG. 5, the wall of the screened-off
space 34 is preferably heated as well, so that the marinade 1 flows
to a collecting unit 36 and is recycled from the latter in this
case as well.
[0150] FIG. 17 shows a screen 32 between the product 2 and a part
of the conveying means 31 of the products 2, in such a manner that
at least a part of the conveying means 31 is screened off while the
marinade 1 is being applied to the product 2.
[0151] FIG. 18 shows the device 41 according to the second aspect
of the present invention as part of a production line for marinated
meat products. On the right in FIG. 18 the introduction of the
products 2 to be marinated can be seen. Next, the products are
attached in a suspension device 38 to carriers 8 which are
connected to the conveying means 31. In order to marinate an area
of the meat as large as possible, it is important that the contact
surface between the carrier and the product is as small as
possible. FIGS. 19 and 20 show details of the suspension device 38
for the products. Alternatively, the products can be placed in a
conveying installation 31 by hand. Once the product is suspended,
it is optionally subjected to a preliminary treatment, such as for
example dusting the product with flour. This may be effected by
means of a device 39 for electrostatically adding additive
particles according to the third aspect of the invention.
[0152] Next follows the device 41 according to the second aspect of
the invention for spraying on heated marinade. The heating means 5,
the buffer store 18 and the screened-off space 34 can be
distinguished.
[0153] Thereafter follows a product release unit 40, after which
the products can be packaged. The conveying means 31 are
subsequently cleaned in a cleaning device 42, after which new
products can be suspended from them.
[0154] FIG. 21 shows a view of the device 41 according to the
second aspect of the invention. The heating means 5 to which
marinade is supplied by means of the marinade supply means 3 can be
seen. Behind these, the buffer store 18 is arranged, inside which
the agitator 19 can be seen. In addition, the screened-off space 34
is shown, having a collecting unit (not shown), from which marinade
1 is returned to the buffer store 18 via recycling means 37
(shown).
[0155] FIG. 22 shows the same device 41 in a partially cut-away
view. The heated walls 9, the advancing means 11, designed as a
rotor, and the chambers 12 of the heating means 5 are shown. The
buffer store 18 with the agitator 19 and outlets 20 for the
marinade can also clearly be distinguished. In the embodiment
illustrated, two addition means 4 have been shown, the spraying
openings 25 having been placed in moveable spraying heads 26. The
products 2 are suspended from carriers 8 which are attached to the
conveyor track 6 by means of rotation means 15 in order in this
manner to form the conveying means 31. The wall of the screened-off
space 34 is visible with the collecting unit 36 and a part of the
recycling device 37 underneath it.
[0156] FIG. 23 shows a sketch of a possible embodiment of an
automated release device 40 for the marinated products 2, where the
products are released from the carriers 8. The products may also be
removed from the line by hand.
[0157] FIGS. 24 and 25 show embodiments of cleaning devices 42 for
the conveying means 31. The cleaning device 42 is heated and may
involve running water 43, for example in combination with brushes
44. Here, the conveying means 31 are treated in such a manner that
the progress of the process is not disrupted. Marinade 1 which has
landed on the conveying means 31 is removed, for example using
water 43 having a temperature above the melting temperature of the
marinade.
[0158] The embodiment shown in FIG. 26 shows two additional storage
containers 7' and 7''. These can be used in case the components
which make up the marinade are supplied separately and can only be
mixed at the last moment. In this embodiment, the marinade
component which is in container 7 is heated in the heating means 5.
Then, the marinade is supplied to the buffer store 18 with an
agitator 19, in this case designed as a cylindrical buffer store
with a screw. The additional elements from the containers 7' and
7'', as well as the recycled marinade may also be supplied to this
buffer store. This recycled marinade is the marinade which is
collected after the addition process. FIG. 26 shows how the
marinade is taken to the addition means 4 along the path 30 by a
pump 21. Then, the marinade is applied to the product 2 which is
suspended from the carriers 8 on a conveyor track 6 using a
spraying process. Marinade which does not land on the product lands
on the heated wall 9 and from there drips down to the collecting
unit 36, following which it moves to the buffer store 18.
[0159] The embodiment shown in FIG. 27 comprises a storage
container 7, heating means 5 and an electrically heated buffer 18.
In this case, the marinade 1 which has landed on the wall 9 is also
able to move directly to the buffer store 18 via a collecting unit
36.
[0160] FIG. 28 shows yet another possible embodiment in order to
move the marinade 1 which has landed on the wall 9 directly to the
buffer store 18 via a collecting unit 36. In this embodiment, the
wall 9 and the buffer store 18 are heated indirectly by water.
[0161] FIG. 29 is a diagrammatic representation of a device
according to the invention for electrostatically applying additive
particles to a product.
[0162] The additive particles preferably are dry, solid, small and
light particles. The additive particles are, for example, dried
herbs or spices, such as parsley and chives, or powders, such as
paprika powder or bonding powder, or flour products, such as flour
and breadcrumbs. The additive particles are illustrated in the
figure by means of dots 103.
[0163] The product is a product suitable for human consumption, in
particular a meat product, such as slaughtered poultry or parts
thereof. Consideration may be given to chicken legs, turkey wings
and the like. The products are indicated in the figure by the
reference numeral 104.
[0164] The products 104 are supplied to the device according to the
invention by means of conveying means 106. These conveying means
106 are designed in this case in such a manner that the products
104 pass the device according to the invention separately, one
behind the other, in a conveyor track 107. To this end, the
products 104 are suspended from carriers 109 which are connected to
the conveyor track 107 and are at a distance from one another.
Rotation means 108 are provided between the carriers 109 and the
conveyor track 107, as a result of which the products can be
positioned.
[0165] FIG. 29 also shows a charging electrode at a distance from
the product 104. The additive particles 103 are supplied to the
charging electrode 101 by the additive supply means 102. The
additive supply means 102 comprise a buffer store 110 with a
discharge opening 111, dosing means 112, distribution means 113 and
a vibrating plate 114.
[0166] Preferably, the products are completely discharged, or they
are given a known charge. Discharging can be effected by earthing
the products in a suitable manner. This can be done, for example,
by connecting the product to an earthed electrically conductive
carrier 109. In some case, separate earthing is not necessary,
since the product will only take up a limited charge. Indeed, the
product may even be given a charge using means for generating an
electric field 105a.
[0167] The charging electrode 101 is likewise given a charge using
means for generating an electric field 105b. By ensuring that the
charging electrode 101 has a charge which differs from the product
104, an electric field is created between the charging electrode
101 and the product 104.
[0168] With the device according to the invention, as illustrated
in FIG. 29, the charging electrode 101 is designed as a supporting
surface. In addition, the charging electrode 101 is elongated and
extends along the conveyor track 107 of the products 104. The
charging electrode 101 has a length such that a number of products
are simultaneously opposite the charging electrode 101. This is the
case because the length of the charging electrode 101 is greater
than the distance between two carriers 109.
[0169] The additive particles 103 are supplied to the charging
electrode 101 by additive supply means 102. The additive particles
are charged on or near the charging electrode 101. When an electric
field is present between the charging electrode 101 and the product
104, the additive particles 103 leave the charging electrode 101
and jump onto the product 104, to which the particles 103 will
adhere. This is indicated in FIG. 29 by means of the arrows p.
[0170] The additive supply means 102 comprise a buffer store 110
for storing the additive particles. In this case, the shape of the
buffer store is slightly conical and elongated, parallel to the
charging electrode 101. A discharge opening 111 is provided at the
bottom of the buffer store 110. The buffer store 110 has dosing
means 112 for adjusting the amount of additive particles which
leaves the buffer store 110. In addition, distribution means 113
have been provided in order to spread the additive particles 103.
By making the buffer 110 of conical design, the additive particles
103 can leave the buffer store 110 in disperse form. Further
spreading and dosing takes place by means of a vibrating plate 114
which is arranged between the discharge opening 111 of the buffer
store 110 and the elongated charging electrode 101. The charging
electrode 101 adjoins an edge of the vibrating plate 114, but is
arranged slightly lower.
[0171] Screening means 116 are provided behind the product 104,
viewed from the direction of the charging electrode 101. In
addition, a collecting unit 118 is provided underneath the
screening means 116 and the products 104. Both the screening means
116 and the collecting unit 118 are connected to means 119 for
applying an electric field between them. When the electric field
between the screening means 116 and the collecting unit 118 is
sufficiently large, the additive particles 103 which have landed on
the screening means 116 will jump onto the collecting unit 118.
Additive particles 103 may also land in the collecting unit 118
which have landed neither on the product 104, nor on the screening
means 116. The particles which have been collected in the
collecting unit 118 are returned to, for example, the vibrating
plate 114 or the charging electrode 101 by means of a recycling
device 120. The recycling device 120 contains a sieve 121 in order
to prevent excessively large parts, such as parts which have come
off the product, blocking the recycling device 120 or impeding the
additive-addition process.
[0172] In addition to the screening means 116 shown behind the
product 104 in FIG. 29, it is also possible to take the product 104
into a completely or partially screened-off space 117, where the
additive particles 103 are added, as shown in FIG. 30.
[0173] FIG. 31 shows screening means 115 between the product 104
and a part of the conveying means 107, such that a part of the
carrier 109, the rotation means 108 and the conveyor track 107 are
screened off while the additive particles are being applied to the
product.
[0174] The device according to the invention shown in FIG. 32
comprises a buffer store 110, from which additive particles 103 are
transported to a vibrating plate 114 and from there to a charging
electrode 101. From the latter, the additive particles 103 jump
onto the product 104, or land in the screened-off space 117. This
screened-off space 117 is connected to a recycling device 120''
which can recycle additive particles back to the buffer store 110
with the aid of the pump 122.
[0175] Another possible recycling device is shown in FIG. 33, where
the additive particles 103 are supplied to the product 104 by means
of a known air-injection system. In this case, the product 104 is
likewise situated in a screened-off space 117 which is connected to
a recycling system 120'', in this case provided with a screw
conveyor.
[0176] The recycling device in FIG. 34 consists of a combination of
a hose 120'' and a pump 122.
[0177] The recycling device in FIG. 35 comprises a conveyor belt
120''' and a screw 120'.
[0178] FIG. 36 diagrammatically shows a device for applying
additive to a product, namely a meat product, in particular a
slaughtered bird or part thereof, comprising a conveyor with a
guide track 300 and carriers 301 which can be displaced along the
guide track, one of which carriers has been shown.
[0179] The carrier 301 is provided with projecting carrying
elements 302, 303, which each have a limb 304, 305, one end of
which is attached to a carrier 301 and the other end of which is
designed to engage with the product.
[0180] The device furthermore comprises an additive-addition
station 310 having a housing 311, which delimits an
additive-addition space 312 through which the products are
successively moved by means of the conveyor. The guide track 300 is
arranged outside the space 312.
[0181] The housing 311 is provided with a slot 313 extending in the
direction of the guide track 300, through which limbs 304, 305 of
the carrying elements extend as far as into the additive-addition
space 312.
[0182] As is preferable, the limbs 304, 305 jointly have a smallest
cross-sectional dimension in the area where the limbs extend
through the slot 313 and jointly have a larger cross-sectional
dimension in the additive-addition space 312.
[0183] Furthermore, it is preferable for the limbs 304, 305 to be
resilient limbs, for example made of spring steel, such that the
ends engaging with the product can be moved apart counter to a
spring force.
[0184] Preferably, a partial vacuum is brought about in the
additive-addition space 312 with respect to the space outside the
housing 311, in particular near the slot 313, so that no additive
particles, which can be very small, can escape to the outside.
[0185] FIG. 37 diagrammatically shows a possible filter arrangement
400 which includes a preliminary filter 402 upstream of a
centrifugal filter 401. The centrifugal filter 401 is shown in its
folded-open position, it being possible to distinguish the lid
401a, the housing of the centrifuge motor part 401b, the rotor 401c
and the housing for the rotor 401d. The preliminary filter 402 is
able to separate relatively large and solid parts of the marinade
from the air stream. Relatively fine droplets and particles can
then be removed by the centrifugal filter. Preferably, both filters
are heated, so that the marinade cannot solidify. The preliminary
filter 402 is arranged at a slight angle so that the marinade
collected by the preliminary filter 402 can be recycled. The action
of a known preliminary filter 402 is shown in FIG. 37b: the filter
consists of flattened tubes 402a and 402b which have been welded
together. Air with marinade is drawn through the filter in the
direction of the double arrows, the marinade accumulating in the
cavities of the welded tubes, designated by 402a' and 402b'. The
air, containing the fine remainders of the marinade, can be drawn
further into the centrifugal filter in the direction of the single
arrow. Using the preliminary filter shown, approximately 90% of the
marinade can be separated from the air stream, and in particular
the relatively large and solid parts thereof.
* * * * *