阅读说明：本技术 用于封闭和/或分离填充的香肠肠衣的封闭模块和方法 (Closing module and method for closing and/or separating filled sausage casings ) 是由 K·斯特罗姆 R·温哈特 G·施力塞尔 F·奥斯维尔德 M·贝齐特勒 J·默克 于 2019-07-01 设计创作，主要内容包括：本发明涉及用于封闭和/或分离经由香肠颈连接的填充的香肠肠衣的封闭模块和方法,封闭模块包括第一电极和与第一电极相对地定位的第二电极,电极被配置成使得香肠颈可以置于电极之间,并且电极适于相对于彼此且朝向香肠颈移动到使得电流可以从第一电极流入香肠颈且经由香肠颈流入第二电极的程度。(The invention relates to a closing module and a method for closing and/or separating filled sausage casing connected via a sausage neck, the closing module comprising a first electrode and a second electrode positioned opposite the first electrode, the electrodes being configured such that the sausage neck can be placed between the electrodes, and the electrodes being adapted to be moved relative to each other and towards the sausage neck to such an extent that an electric current can flow from the first electrode into the sausage neck and via the sausage neck into the second electrode.)

1. A closing module (1) for closing and/or separating filled sausage casings (5) connected via a sausage neck (4), the closing module (1) comprising:

a first electrode (2a) and a second electrode (2b) positioned opposite to the first electrode (2a),

the electrodes (2a, 2b) are configured such that a sausage neck (4) can be placed between the electrodes (2a, 2b), and the electrodes (2a, 2b) are adapted to be moved relative to each other and towards the sausage neck (4) such that an electric current can flow from the first electrode (2a) into the sausage neck (4) and via the sausage neck (4) into the second electrode (2 b).

2. The closure module as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that the closure module (1) further comprises a first die element (3a)₁、3b₁) And a second die element (3b) arranged opposite₁、3b₂) Said first die element (3a)₁、3b₁) And said second die element (3b)₁、3b₂) Are adapted to be moved relative to each other and towards each other such that the sausage neck (4) will be clamped between the opposing die elements (3a)₁、3b₁) In particular, the closure module (1) comprises:

a first die pair (3a) having two die elements (3a) spaced apart side by side₁、3a₂) (ii) a And an oppositely arranged second die pair (3b) having two die elements (3a) spaced apart side by side₁、3b₂) Said first die pair (3a) and said second die pair (3b) being adapted to be moved relative to each other and towards each other such that the sausage neck will be clamped between the opposing die elements, the respective electrode being arranged between the die elements of a die pair.

3. Closure module (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the electrodes can be oriented when viewed in the direction of movement (V)Move towards each other only maximally to a minimum distance (a)_M)。

4. Closure module (1) according to at least one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the juxtaposed die elements (3a) of a die element pair₁、3a₂、3b₁、3b₂) Is configured as an expanding element such that the side-by-side die elements (3a)₁、3a₂、3b₁、3b₂) Can be laterally moved away from the electrodes (2a, 2b), wherein

In particular, in the die member (3a)₁、3a₂、3b₁、3b₂) Before clamping the sausage neck (4), the die element (3a)₁、3a₂、3b₁、3b₂) Removable, preferably the pair of die elements (3a, 3b) is provided with a guide unit (12), the guide unit (12) being configured when the die elements (3a, 3b) are opposed₁、3a₂、3b₁、3b₂) The die elements are at least partially laterally movable away from each other when moved towards each other.

5. Closure module (1) according to at least one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the die elements (3a, 3b) of at least one die element pair (3a, 3b)₁、3a₂、3b₁、3b₂) With said die element (3a)₁、3a₂、3b₁、3b₂) Can be wound around an axis (A) extending substantially along the longitudinal direction (L) and transversely to the movement direction (V) of the electrode₃、A₅) Is supported in a rotating manner, in particular with the die element (3a)₁、3a₂、3b₁、3b₂) Can be wound around an axis (A) extending substantially along the longitudinal direction (L) and transversely to the movement direction (V) of the electrode₃、A₅) Is supported in a freely rotating manner; and/or the die elements (3a, 3b) of at least one die element pair (3a, 3b)₁、3a₂、3b₁、3b₂) With said die element (3a)₁、3a₂、3b₁、3b₂) Can be wound around an axis (A) extending substantially transversely to the longitudinal direction of the closure module (1)₄) Is supported in a rotating manner, in particular with the die element (3a)₁、3a₂、3b₁、3b₂) Can be wound around an axis (A) extending substantially transversely to the longitudinal direction of the closure module (1)₄) Is supported in a freely rotating manner, in particular, the axis (A)₄) Extending transversely to the direction of movement (V) of the electrodes.

6. Closure module (1) according to at least one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that at least one pair of die elements (3a, 3b) comprises a spring-loaded linear guide (14).

7. The closing module (1) according to at least one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that it comprises two closing cells (A, B) movable towards each other, a first closing cell (A) comprising the first electrode (2a) and a first pair of die elements (3a) and a second closing cell (B) comprising the second electrode (2B) and a second pair of die elements (3B), in particular at least one closing cell (A, B) is supported in such a way that the at least one closing cell (A, B) is rotatable about an axis along the longitudinal direction (L) and/or about an axis transverse to the longitudinal direction and to the direction of movement (V).

8. The closure module according to at least one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the electrodes (2a, 2b) and the die elements can be moved relative to and towards each other, respectively, manually or by means of a positioning drive, in particular a pneumatic or electric positioning drive.

9. The closure module according to at least one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the closure module is configured as a hand-held device with a handle region (7), the handle region (7) comprising two opposite handle elements (7a, 7b) spaced apart, the handle elements (7a, 7b) being movable relative to each other and towards each other, and the handle elements (7a, 7b) each being coupled with the respective opposite electrode or each being coupled with the electrode and the die element, such that when the handle elements (7a, 7b) are moved towards each other, the respective electrode and the die element are also moved towards each other.

10. A method for closing and/or separating filled sausage casings (5) connected via a sausage neck (4), the method comprising the steps of:

placing a sausage neck (4) between a first electrode (2a) and a second electrode (2b) located opposite the first electrode, the electrodes being spaced apart from the rounded sausage end of the stuffed sausage casing such that the electrodes will not contact the stuffed sausage casing,

moving the electrodes relative to each other onto the sausage neck (4) such that an electric current will flow from the first electrode into the sausage neck and via the sausage neck (4) into the second electrode (2a), whereby the stuffed sausage casing (5) will be closed, preferably the stuffed sausage casing (5) will be separated from each other.

11. The method of claim 10,

during closing, the sausage neck is clamped by at least two opposing die elements, preferably by a pair of opposing die elements (3a, 3b), the pair of opposing die elements (3a, 3b) each comprising two die elements (3a, 3b)₁、3a₂、3b₁、3b₂) Said two die elements (3a)₁、3a₂、3b₁、3b₂) With corresponding electrodes arranged therebetween, while the electrodes are only maximally moved to a minimum distance relative to each other and towards each other.

12. Method according to at least one of the claims 10 to 11, characterized in that during a first time period t₁During which one is supplied per unit time through the electrodesA certain amount of energy, so that the sausage neck (4) is heated and will be closed, preferably, in a second time period t₂During this time, the amount of energy supplied per unit time is increased, in particular, in a peaked manner, so that the sausage neck will break down and will break.

13. Method according to at least one of the claims 10 to 12, characterized in that the sausage casing is an electrically conductive sausage casing.

14. Method according to at least one of the claims 10 to 13, characterized in that the current is a high frequency current, in particular a high frequency current in a frequency range of 300kHz to 500 kHz.

15. Method according to at least one of the claims 10 to 14, characterized in that a voltage in the range of 50 to 500V is applied to the electrode, in particular a voltage in the range of 80 to 340V.

Technical Field

The invention relates to a closing module and a method for closing and/or separating filled sausage casings connected via a sausage neck and for closing and/or separating the ends of sausage casings.

Background

In the production of sausage products by means of a filling and dispensing system, casings, mainly natural, artificial and collagen, are used as sausage casings, and the sausage meat is filled by means of a vacuum filler. By shrinking and separating (e.g. twisting) the stuffed sausage casing within a twist-off line (twist-off line), a sausage chain is obtained which is composed of a plurality of connected stuffed sausage casings (i.e. portions). The connected portions are closed at defined separation points, so that the separation points cannot be opened again during the separation process, which is performed, for example, by means of a knife. Likewise, if the sausage casing tears, the open sausage ends must be closed and the ends of the sausage chain must also be closed.

Clips, for example for applying metal clips, are known for closing sausage portions. EP 1609366 has described that two adjacent sausage portions are supplied with an electric current, which then flows from one sausage portion to the adjacent sausage portion, whereby the middle sausage neck can be cut open. In this configuration, the electrodes are arranged at a fixed predetermined distance from each other. Due to the fact that current is coupled into the sausage, a relatively high current is required. It cannot therefore be ruled out that reactions may occur in the filling material and that delicate sausage casings may be damaged. Furthermore, there will also be a direct contact between the electrode and the rounded sausage end of the sausage portion. However, for example, the displacement of the twisting separation point and the sausage meat causes mechanical stress at the rounded sausage end. If an electric current is now introduced at the rounded sausage end, the sausage casing under mechanical stress may tear when heated. This may occur in particular in the case of delicate natural casings. Another disadvantage of the known device is that the ends of the sausage chain cannot be closed, since two sausages are always required for applying the voltage. In addition, the conversion of different calibers (calibers) is laborious.

Disclosure of Invention

On this background, it is an object of the invention to provide an improved closing module and an improved method for closing and/or separating filled sausage casings connected via a sausage neck, which allow filled sausage casings to be closed more carefully, more easily and more reliably even at the ends of a sausage chain.

A closure module for closing and/or separating filled sausage casings connected via a sausage neck, the closure module comprising: a first electrode and a second electrode positioned opposite (opposite) the first electrode. The electrodes are configured such that the sausage neck can be placed between the electrodes. This means that the electrodes are arranged on opposite sides of the sausage neck. The electrodes are adapted to move relative to each other and towards each other. This means that at least one electrode can be moved towards the other electrode, so that the distance between the electrodes can be reduced, as seen in the direction of movement of the electrodes. The electrodes are adapted to move relative to each other and towards each other and onto the sausage neck to the following extent: the current may flow from the first electrode into the sausage neck and via the sausage neck into the second electrode. The current for closing and/or separating then flows only through the sausage neck and not through the parts, i.e. not through the filled sausage casing. This has the following advantages: the electrodes will not contact the filled sausage casing but only the sausage neck. The sausage neck (i.e. the twisted sausage casing, for example, between the filled sausage portions) serves as a dielectric between a pair of electrodes. Thus, current can flow from one electrode to the other through the sausage neck. When passing through the sausage neck (electrical resistance), electrical energy is converted into heat energy and heats the sausage neck. For example in natural casing, thermal denaturation of collagen (coagulation of proteins) will then start. In addition, starting at 100 ℃, water evaporates, so that the natural casing of the sausage neck coagulates and is thus closed. This means that the continuously filled sausage casing is closed via the sausage neck, while still being connected to one another. Further supply of energy will cause an increase in temperature and cause disintegration and breaking of the casing. In principle, the sausage neck can be heated only to the following extent: the sausage neck coagulates and the filled sausage casing will close.

The invention is also advantageous because of the fact that the sausage neck can be closed, or closed and separated, via the die and the electrodes adapted to be moved towards each other, even the last sausage at the end of the sausage chain can be closed. In contrast to the prior art, therefore, no additional section with or without sausage meat is required anymore for closing the sausage section at the end of the sausage skein. In the prior art, additional jejunal coatings are often produced, so that, for example, knots can be tied at the ends of the sausage skein. Furthermore, when creating additional empty portions in the prior art, the operator has to push the sausage mass back into the sausage portion to be closed before closing takes place and to pay attention to the length of this portion and to the degree of filling thereof. Thus, the present invention allows for a cost reduction of casing and/or sausage meat.

Furthermore, product optimization is done in terms of weight, length, visual appearance and filling degree of the part to be closed. All in all, a reliably closed sausage end will also lead to improved hygiene.

Since the electrodes are moved on the sausage neck, the closing module can be used in any way for different calibers without any mechanical conversion.

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the closing module further comprises a first die element and an oppositely arranged second die element, the first and second die elements being adapted to be moved relative to each other and towards each other such that the sausage neck will be clamped between the opposite die elements. This means that the opposite end faces of the die elements can be moved into contact with each other. The die elements serve to grip the sausage neck and serve as spacers and insulation for the rounded sausage ends.

It is particularly advantageous when the closing module comprises a first die pair with two die elements spaced apart side by side (when viewed in the longitudinal direction of the closing module and the elongated sausage neck, i.e. transversely to the direction of movement of the electrodes) and a second die pair with an opposing arrangement of two die elements spaced apart side by side (when viewed in the longitudinal direction), the respective electrode being arranged between the die elements of the die pair, wherein the first die pair and the second die pair are adapted to be moved relative to each other and towards each other such that the sausage neck will be clamped between the opposing die elements. The stamp pair may also be constructed as an integral part, for example as a closed unit. The pair of die members provides improved stability. In addition, the die elements allow a safe spacing from the rounded sausage end of the filled sausage casing. By means of the electrode pairs, an electric current is introduced between the sausage neck or the pinch points in the open sausage end, so that no flow occurs through the sausage casing of the circular sausage end which is under mechanical stress. Since the sausage neck is clamped before the transition to the rounded sausage end, the mechanical stress can be said to be "held back". The clamping of the separation point must not be eliminated until the current is interrupted (i.e. after closing and/or breaking) so that a reliable closing can be performed. The stamp element is made of a non-conductive material so that no current will flow from the electrodes to the stamp element.

According to an advantageous embodiment, the electrodes can be moved only maximally to a minimum distance a relative to each other and towards each other_M. Short circuits within the electrode pairs can be prevented in this way.

According to a preferred embodiment, the juxtaposed die elements of the pair of die elements are configured as spreading elements (spreading elements) such that they can be moved laterally away from the electrodes. Preferably, the die elements are movable apart before they grip the sausage neck, the closing module preferably being provided with a guide unit which is configured such that the die elements can be moved laterally away from each other towards the respective sausage end at least partially simultaneously when the opposite die elements are moved relative to each other and towards each other.

Thus, the closure module can be applied in narrower separation points. Shortly before the die elements grip the sausage neck, the die elements are turned outwards in the direction of the circular sausage end, for example via a curved path, enlarging the separation point (i.e. the sausage neck) and gripping the sausage neck at the transition to the circular sausage end. Without such a spreading function, i.e. when the die element is already above the rounded sausage end in the spread position when engaging the sausage neck, there is the risk that: during closing, the die elements will exert pressure on the rounded sausage ends under mechanical stress, which can then cause damage to the rounded sausage ends. Only the sausage neck is clamped, while the rounded sausage ends should remain unaffected.

According to a preferred embodiment, the die elements of at least one die element pair are supported in such a way that they can rotate about an axis extending substantially in the longitudinal direction and transversely to the direction of movement of the electrode, in particular in such a way that they can rotate freely about an axis extending substantially in the longitudinal direction and transversely to the direction of movement of the electrode. It is also possible that the die elements of at least one die element pair are additionally or alternatively rotatably supported about an axis extending substantially transversely to the longitudinal direction of the closure module and transversely to the direction of movement of the electrodes.

In this way, it can be ensured that the end faces of the die elements will always be oriented parallel to one another and tolerances can be compensated for. It is also possible that, for example, one die member is rotatably supported about an axis extending in the longitudinal direction, and the opposite die member is rotatably supported about an axis perpendicular thereto.

These elements are supported in an advantageous manner in such a way that they can freely rotate, so that tolerances can be automatically compensated. According to another embodiment, the at least one die pair may further comprise a spring-loaded linear guide as a tolerance compensation unit.

According to a preferred embodiment, the closing module comprises two closing units which are movable relative to each other and towards each other. This means that the first and/or second closing unit can be moved towards the respective other closing unit, the first closing unit comprising the first electrode and the first die element pair and the second closing unit comprising the second electrode and the second die element pair. For tolerance compensation purposes, the at least one closing unit can be supported in a rotatable manner about an axis in the longitudinal direction and/or an axis transverse to the longitudinal direction, in particular in a freely rotatable manner about an axis in the longitudinal direction and/or an axis transverse to the longitudinal direction. It is also possible that: supporting a closing unit in a manner rotatable about an axis in the longitudinal direction, in particular in a manner freely rotatable about the axis in the longitudinal direction; and supports the other closing unit in a manner rotatable about an axis transverse to the longitudinal direction, in particular in a manner freely rotatable about an axis transverse to the longitudinal direction.

The electrodes and the die elements, respectively, can be moved towards each other or the closing units can be moved towards each other manually or by means of a positioning drive, in particular a pneumatic or electric positioning drive.

According to an advantageous embodiment, the closure module is configured as a hand-held device and is provided with a handle region comprising two spaced-apart, opposite handle elements which are movable towards each other and which are each coupled with a respective opposite electrode or with an electrode and a die element, such that when the handle elements are moved towards each other, the respective electrode and die element will also be moved towards each other. Hand-held devices of the type in question are particularly easy to operate and can be easily used by an operator in the form of hand pliers.

The method according to the invention comprises the following steps:

the sausage neck is placed between a first electrode and a second electrode positioned opposite the first electrode, the electrodes being spaced apart from the rounded sausage end of the filled sausage casing when viewed in the longitudinal direction, such that the electrodes will not contact the filled sausage casing,

the electrodes are moved relative to each other and onto the sausage neck such that an electric current will flow from the first electrode into the sausage neck and via the sausage neck into the second electrode, whereby the filled sausage casing will be closed, preferably separated from each other.

Thus, according to the invention, the current can flow perpendicular to the sausage neck.

During the closing of the sausage neck by at least two opposing die elements, preferably by pairs of opposing die elements, between which the respective electrode is arranged, the sausage neck is clamped by the pairs of die elements which are moved into contact with one another. However, the electrodes are phase onlyMaximum movement to a minimum distance a with respect to and towards each other_MAnd thus will prevent short circuits.

During the first time interval, the electrodes supply an amount of energy per unit time, so that the sausage neck is heated so strongly that, for example, proteins in the sausage neck will coagulate. For example, condensation occurs at a temperature in the range of 65 ℃ to 100 ℃. The filled sausage casing can thus be closed. If it is now also desired to additionally separate the filled sausage casings from each other, the amount of energy supplied per unit time can be increased during the second time interval, in particular in the manner of a peak, so that the sausage neck will break down and will break.

Advantageously, the stamp element will not move away until the current supply is interrupted.

The closure module is particularly suitable for use with electrically conductive sausage casings such as sheep intestine casings, pig intestine casings, cow intestine casings and collagen casings.

High-frequency currents, in particular in the frequency range of 300kHz to 500kHz and in the voltage range of 50V to 500V (in particular in the voltage range of 80V to 430V), have proven advantageous for the method according to the invention.

Drawings

Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a closure module according to a first embodiment of the invention,

figure 2 shows a side view of the embodiment shown in figure 1,

figure 3 shows a top view of the embodiment shown in figures 1 and 2,

figure 4 shows a front view of the embodiment shown in figures 1 to 3 in a slightly open position,

figure 5 shows the embodiment shown in figure 4 in a closed position,

figure 6 shows a top view of another embodiment according to the invention in a non-deployed position,

figure 7 shows the embodiment shown in figure 6 in a deployed position,

figure 8 shows a schematic perspective view of the embodiment shown in figures 6 and 7 in a deployed position,

figure 9 shows a schematic perspective view of a die element with a curved guide,

figure 10 shows a schematic perspective view of another embodiment of a closure module comprising a rotatably supported pair of die elements,

figure 11 shows a front view of the embodiment shown in figure 10,

figure 12 shows another embodiment of a closure module according to the invention comprising a spring-loaded linear guide,

figure 13 shows another embodiment of the invention in a schematic perspective view,

figure 14 shows a cross-sectional view of the embodiment shown in figure 13,

figure 15 shows a possible electrode configuration according to the invention in a highly schematic view,

fig. 16 shows a closure module (similar to a pair of jaws) according to another embodiment of the invention in perspective view.

Detailed Description

Fig. 1 shows a first embodiment of a closure module 1 according to the invention in a schematic view. The closing module 1 serves to close or close and separate the filled sausage casing 5 connected via the sausage neck. Such a conductive sausage casing may for example be a natural casing or an artificial or collagen casing stored in saline. The sausage casing is pre-filled with a pasty substance (e.g. sausage meat), for example by means of a filling machine (e.g. a vacuum stuffer). By shrinking (constraining) or dividing (divide) the stuffed sausage casing in a twisted line, a plurality of sausage chains interconnecting (i.e. parts of) the stuffed sausage casings 5 are obtained, the stuffed sausage casings 5 being connected to each other via the twisted sausage neck 4. Fig. 4 shows by way of example two stuffed sausage casings 5, the rounded ends 6 of the two stuffed sausage casings 5 being interconnected via the sausage neck 4. The interconnected sausage chain, which is composed of a plurality of interconnected parts, is then closed by the closing module 1, for example, so that the filled sausage casing can no longer be opened, for example, during the separating process by means of a knife. However, as will be explained in more detail below, it is also possible to close the individual stuffed sausage casing 5 by means of the closing module 1 and to cut off the sausage neck.

It can be observed from fig. 1 that the closed module 1 according to the invention comprises two opposite electrodes 2a, 2b, the electrodes 2a, 2b being movable relative to each other as indicated by the arrow P. Fig. 1 and 2 show the closure module in an open position. As can be observed from fig. 2, the electrodes 2a, 2b are spaced apart by a distance a. In this embodiment, the die member 3a₁、3a₂And 3b₁、3b₂Arranged in a longitudinal direction L (which corresponds to the longitudinal direction L of the filled sausage casing and the elongated sausage neck and the longitudinal direction L of the closing module-see also fig. 3 and 4). Upper die member 3a₁、3a₂Defining a first pair of die members 3a, a lower die member 3b₁、3b₂Defining a second pair of die members 3 b. In addition, the pair of die elements 3a, 3b can be moved relative to each other and towards each other along a direction of movement V, which is here oriented perpendicularly to the direction vector L. The die element is made of a non-conductive material and protrudes beyond the electrodes 2a, 2b in the forward direction (as can be seen in particular in fig. 3).

However, the stamp elements may also be constructed such that they are made of an electrically conductive or non-electrically conductive material and are provided with an insulating coating.

However, the electrodes may also have an insulating coating, and the electrodes may be exposed only at the positions where the current is to flow to the other electrodes; this means, for example, that the respective lower end face and/or upper end face of the counter electrode is at least partially exposed.

The die elements 3a extend substantially parallel to one another in the region of the electrodes, although the die elements₁、3a₂And 3b₁、3b₂The distance therebetween decreases in the forward direction so that the respective electrode is in a protected position. The die elements are also intended to be centered in this way in the gap between the sausage portions.

As can be seen in particular from fig. 3 to 5, the electrodes 2a, 2b are configured such that the sausage neck 4 can be placed between the electrodes 2a, 2 b. This means that the width b (see fig. 4) of the pair of die elements 3a, 3b is smaller than the length l of the sausage neck 4.

The embodiment shown in fig. 1 to 5 is configured as a hand-held module. For this purpose, the closure module 1 comprises a handle region 7, the handle region 7 having two handle elements 7a, 7b which can be moved relative to one another. The upper elongated handle element 7a is connected to a closing element 8a, the closing element 8a being provided with a first pair of die elements 3a and a first electrode 2 a. The lower handle element 7b is connected to a closure element 8b, which closure element 8b is provided with a second pair of die elements 3b and a second electrode 2 b. When the grip element 7a is moved relative to the grip element 7b (as indicated by arrow P), the distance between the electrodes 2a, 2b may be reduced via the column guide 9. However, the distance between the electrodes may also be reduced using a mechanical arrangement similar to the pair of jaws shown in FIG. 16. The handle elements 7a and 7b are here arranged to be rotatable about an axis A₈The die elements and electrodes are supported in a manner that rotates and couples to the die elements and electrodes such that when the handle elements are moved toward each other, the opposing die elements and electrodes will move toward each other. The handle elements 7a, 7b can be preloaded towards the open position by means of a spring, not shown.

Fig. 4 shows the closure module 1 in a slightly opened state. Here, it can be observed that the pair of dies 3a, 3b has not yet been moved into contact with each other, but has already enclosed the sausage neck. In fig. 5, the end faces of the pair of die elements 3a, 3b have been moved into contact with each other, so that the sausage neck 4 can be gripped. However, the electrodes 2a, 2b cannot be moved completely into contact with each other, but are spaced apart from each other by a minimum distance a_MThereby preventing a short circuit when a voltage is applied to the electrodes. For example, fig. 15 shows the minimum distance a_M. The minimum distance a is 0.2mm to 5mm in the case of a sausage neck diameter_MIn the range of, for example, 0.1mm to 3 mm. According to this embodiment, the electrodes 2a, 2b are located on opposite sides of the sausage neck 4 and are not displaced relative to each other.

In the closed position shown in fig. 5, a voltage can now be applied to the electrodes 2a, 2b for the purpose of closing or closing and separating. For this purpose, the electrodes are connected to a voltage source, for example via cables not shown.

The voltage source may be automatically switched on via a position switch when the closure module 1 is in the closed position, or manually activated via a switch not shown. The switch, not shown, may be a switch located on the device or e.g. a foot switch.

According to a preferred embodiment, the voltage supply is automated. A measuring potential is applied between the two electrodes. By means of the measuring potential, for example, the resistance between the electrodes can be measured, and from the resistance it can be determined whether sausage casing is present between the electrodes. If it is determined that a sausage neck is present between the electrodes in the closing module, the voltage and/or current will automatically increase, in particular after an adjustable period of time, as a result of which the closing power will automatically increase.

The sausage neck serves as an electrolyte between the electrodes 2a, 2 b. The current flows from the electrode 2a through the sausage neck 4 into the lower electrode 2 b. When an electric current flows through the sausage neck 4, the electric energy is converted into heat energy and heats the sausage neck. In natural casings, thermal denaturation of collagen (i.e. coagulation of proteins) will start from about T ═ 65 ℃. The indication of this is a whitish discoloration. Starting from about T-100 ℃, the water evaporates and, for example, the open natural casing or sausage neck will coagulate and seal. In response to further energy supply, the temperature rises and the sausage casing breaks down; as a result, the sausage neck 4 is broken. The decisive aspects are the development of heat and the power supplied. The higher the amount of energy supplied per unit time (i.e. electrical power), the faster the temperature of e.g. natural casing rises. If an excessive amount of power is supplied, denaturation of the casing does not occur, but rapid heating and decomposition and breaking of the sausage neck will occur. Thus, condensation and closure of the separation points do not occur. It is therefore advantageous that the power is not too high at the beginning, so that denaturation can occur slowly.

The fact that the sausage neck is gripped by the pair of die elements allows closing and separation in a particularly careful manner. At the rounded sausage end 6, the mechanical stresses acting on the sausage casing are caused, for example, by the displacement of the torsional separating point and the sausage mass (i.e. the sausage meat). If an electric current is now introduced directly at the rounded sausage end, the sausage casing under mechanical stress can tear during heating. The mechanical stress is "resisted" by the fact that the sausage neck is clamped prior to the transition into the rounded sausage end 6. An electric current is introduced between the die elements via the electrode pairs 2a, 2b and flows only through the sausage neck and not through the sausage casing at the rounded sausage ends under mechanical stress. The clamping of the sausage neck must not be eliminated until the flow of current is interrupted, in particular until denaturation has occurred, so that a reliable closure will be possible.

The separation process can be started by briefly increasing the electric power (peak value) after the electric power for closing and denaturing.

The grip can be eliminated by moving the handle elements 7a, 7b apart. The closing module according to the invention can also be used for closing sausage ends, since the closing module does not apply a voltage to the filled sausage or to the sausage casing 5 itself, but to the sausage neck.

Another embodiment of the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to fig. 6 to 9. The embodiment shown in fig. 6 to 9 corresponds substantially to the first embodiment, however, the second embodiment has the function of expanding the die elements. Fig. 6 shows a top view of this embodiment, with the closure module 1 in the open position, i.e. the die element 3a₁、3b₁、3a₂、3b₂Spaced apart in the direction V and the pairs of dies 3a, 3b can be introduced between the stuffed sausage casings 5 and can receive the sausage necks between the stuffed sausage casings 5. As can be observed from FIG. 7, the die pair member 3a₁、3a₂、3b₁、3b₂Can be moved laterally away from the electrodes 2a, 2b in the direction of the arrow K, i.e. the die pair element 3a₁、3a₂、3b₁、3b₂Can be unfolded. Figure 7 shows the die element 3a in the extended position₁、3a₂As can be observed, for example, in fig. 5, the closure module 1 is closed. This means that the stamp pair element can be moved in the direction L, i.e. a direction comprising at least a directional component in the direction L. This unfolding function allows the closing module to be applied also to narrower separation points (i.e. shorter sausage necks)4) And then deployed. This spreading out stretches the sausage neck so that it can be reliably cut off. Without such a spreading function, i.e. when the die element is already above the circular sausage end 6 in the spread position when engaging the sausage neck, there is the risk that: during closing, the die elements will exert pressure on the rounded sausage end under mechanical stress and will cause damage to the rounded sausage end. According to the invention, only the sausage neck is clamped, the rounded sausage end 6 remaining unaffected.

In order to move the spreading elements apart, a curved path (cam path) 12 can be provided, as can be seen from fig. 8 and 9, the curved path (cam path) 12 achieving that the die elements are spread shortly before the sausage neck 4 is clamped. To this end, the guiding unit comprises a curved path 12, for example according to a preferred embodiment, which is configured, for example, such that when opposing die elements are moved towards each other in the direction V, the die elements will move apart and around the axis a at least partially simultaneously₁、A₂Pivoting outward. This means that the die member 3a₁、3a₂About axis A₁、A₂Pivoted outwards, i.e. die members 3a₁、3a₂Removed and will unfold.

Opposed die members 3b₁、3b₂Pivoted apart simultaneously by the mechanism described below. Die member 3a₁By means transverse to axis A₁The pins being arranged to be connected to shafts whose centres correspond to the axis A₁. Which is rotatably supported in the upper handle element 7 a. In addition, a pin is fixed in the lower handle element 7b, which pin cooperates with the die element 3a₁Is engaged. When the two handle elements 7a and 7b are moved towards each other, the die element 3a₁Will move linearly with respect to the lower handle element 7b and the curved path 12 will cause the die element 3a due to its Z-shaped profile₁Moving outwardly in a pivoting motion. Axis A₁Can be on the die member 3b₁The inner shaft moves. In the die member 3b₁Transverse to axis A₁The pins being arranged to extend through the axis A in vertically-disposed elongate apertures₁So that despite the rotation, it can be transferred from the axis A1 to the die element 3b₁But the axis A₁May be in the longitudinal direction of the die member 3b₁Is freely moved in the direction of (a). In this way, the use of two die elements 3a is produced in the inward and outward direction₁And 3b₁Synchronous pivoting movement of the two. Two die members 3a₂And 3b₂And similarly moves.

The guides shown in fig. 8 and 9 are only one example showing how the die elements may be removed. It is important that the distance between the die elements of the die element pair in the region of the sausage neck is greater in the closed position of the closure module than in the open state.

FIG. 10 shows a die element 3a according to another embodiment of the invention₁、3a₂So as to be rotatable about an axis A extending in the longitudinal direction L₃Is supported in a freely rotating manner. This is advantageous because it can be ensured that the end faces of the opposing die elements are always oriented parallel to one another, so that tolerances can be compensated.

Fig. 12 shows another embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 12 essentially corresponds to the embodiment shown in fig. 10 and 11, wherein for example the first die element pair 3a is rotatably supported. The pair of lower die elements comprises a spring loaded linear guide 14. The guide also allows tolerance compensation so that the die elements can orient themselves parallel to each other.

According to a preferred embodiment, the closing module 1 has two closing elements A, B, two closing elements A, B being movable relative to and towards each other (as shown in fig. 13 and 14), and two closing elements A, B comprising electrode and die elements 2a, 3a combined as a unit₁、3a₂And 2b, 3b₁、3b₂. The pair of dies, here constructed as e.g. one-piece parts, abut against both sides of the electrodes 2a, 2b when seen in the longitudinal direction, thereby defining a clamping point on both sides of the electrodes. Here, the respective cells A, B may be rotatably supported. The unit may for example be an injection moulded part, the electrodes being integrated in the mould as an insert plate during the injection moulding process. The electrodes being in spaced apart relationship (a)_M) Positioned so as to exclude contact and therefore electrical shorts. The unit A, B may be, for example, pluggably mounted so that the unit A, B can be quickly replaced in the event of contamination so that there will be no or only a short production outage. Also in the case of this embodiment, it is important that the sausage neck or the opened sausage end is clamped before the transition into the rounded sausage end 6.

Thus, as can be seen from fig. 13 and 14, the respective cells A, B may be rotatably supported. The unit A may, for example, be rotatable about an axis A₄Is supported in a freely rotating manner in order to allow tolerance compensation. A lower closing unit B to be rotatable about an axis A₅Is supported in a rotating manner, where the axis A₅Perpendicular to the axis A₄And extends in direction L.

The method according to the invention will be explained below with reference to fig. 1 to 7.

For closing, or for closing and separating, the stuffed sausage casings 5 connected via the sausage neck 4, the closing module 1 is first placed, for example, between two stuffed sausage casings 5 or at an open sausage end (not shown). For this purpose, pairs of opposing die elements 3a, 3b are introduced into the region between the filled sausage casing 5, so that the sausage neck 4 is placed between the electrodes 2a, 2b and the die elements 3a as shown in fig. 3₁、3b₁、3b₂、3b₂In the meantime.

For closing, or closing and separating purposes, the stamp element and the electrodes 2a, 2b now have to be moved relative to each other as indicated by arrow P in fig. 1. For this purpose, the operator can use the closure module 1, for example, like a grasping forceps, and grasp the grip region 7 and move the grip elements 7a, 7b relative to one another. In particular, the handle element 7a is pressed down towards the handle element 7b via the post guide 9. As a result, the electrodes 2a, 2b and the pair of die elements 3a, 3b will also move relative to each other until reaching the end position shown in fig. 4 and finally the end position shown in fig. 5. As shown in fig. 5, the end faces 10a, 10b of the respective die elements are moved into contact with one another here, so that the sausage neck 4 is clamped between the end faces 10a, 10 b. At this end position or contact position, the opposing electrodes 2a, 2b are in spaced relation to each other. The sausage neck 4 is located between the electrodes. It is also possible, as mentioned above, that in this position the respective die element is in an extended position, for example of the type shown in fig. 7. Then, via manual operation of a position switch or a suitable switch, current can flow from a current source (not shown) through a cable, also not shown, via the electrode 2a into the sausage neck 4 and from the sausage neck 4 into the lower electrode 2 b. Currents which have proven particularly suitable are high-frequency currents in the frequency range from 300kHz to 500 kHz. Advantageously, the voltage is in the range of 80V to 430V. Electrical energy is converted into heat energy and the sausage neck is heated to a temperature of 60 to 350 ℃. In this temperature range, for example, thermal denaturation of collagen begins, indicating that this denaturation is marked by a whitish discoloration.

Starting from approximately T ═ 100 ℃, the water evaporates and, for example, the opened natural casing coagulates and closes. In response to further energy supply, the temperature rises and the sausage neck breaks down and breaks.

According to a preferred embodiment, at a first time interval t₁During which a specific amount of energy is supplied per unit time, so that the sausage neck is heated and will close, in particular coagulate. If it is also desired to disconnect the sausage neck 4, a second time interval t can be provided₂During which the power, in particular the peak power, is increased. This causes a quick disconnect. The current supply is then terminated, for example, after a predetermined period of time or manually or automatically by means of a trigger switch or position switch. The electrodes 2a, 2b and the pair of stamp elements 3a, 3b may then be moved apart in the direction opposite to the direction of arrow P, so that the distance a between the electrodes 2a, 2b is established again and the module 1 may be removed, as shown in fig. 2.

Instead of manually moving the electrodes 2a, 2b and the pair of die elements 3a, 3b towards and away from each other, it is also possible to move the electrodes 2a, 2b and the pair of die elements 3a, 3b by means of a positioning drive, in particular by means of a pneumatic or electric positioning drive. Removal of the parts can be easily achieved by the operator releasing his grip on the grip element 7 a; the elements 7a, 7b can be spring-loaded, for example by means of springs (for example in the column guide 9) not shown, so that the position spaced apart by the distance a will automatically be re-established.