阅读说明：本技术 可调节的虾处理设备 (Adjustable shrimp processing equipment ) 是由 迈克尔·丹西 詹姆斯·格罗夫 凯文·埃雷拉 于 2021-04-13 设计创作，主要内容包括：一种虾处理机器包含框架组合件、与其联接的驱动组合件、托架部件,以及可调节的切割组合件。所述可调节的切割组合件能够在升高位置与降低位置之间移动,且包含切割装置和与所述切割装置可操作地联接的可调节的凸轮板。所述可调节的凸轮板具有凸轮主体、调节机构,以及具有第一、第二和第三接合表面的接合区。所述可调节的切割组合件能够在所述切割装置具有缓慢下落速率的第一配置与所述切割装置具有快速下落速率的第二配置之间调节。(A shrimp-handling machine includes a frame assembly, a drive assembly coupled thereto, a carriage member, and an adjustable cutting assembly. The adjustable cutting assembly is movable between a raised position and a lowered position and includes a cutting device and an adjustable cam plate operably coupled with the cutting device. The adjustable cam plate has a cam body, an adjustment mechanism, and an engagement zone having first, second, and third engagement surfaces. The adjustable cutting assembly is adjustable between a first configuration in which the cutting device has a slow rate of fall and a second configuration in which the cutting device has a fast rate of fall.)

1. A shrimp-handling machine comprising:

a frame assembly;

a drive assembly operably coupled with the frame assembly;

a carriage member operably coupled with the drive assembly, the carriage member including a body and a shrimp-supporting region adapted to at least partially support at least a portion of a shrimp;

an adjustable cutting assembly including a cutting device and an adjustable cam plate operably coupled with the cutting device, the adjustable cam plate having a cam body, an adjustment mechanism, and an engagement region having a first engagement surface, a second engagement surface, and a third engagement surface, the adjustable cutting assembly movable between a raised position and a lowered position;

wherein the adjustable cutting assembly is adjustable between a first configuration in which the cutting device has a slow rate of fall and a second configuration in which the cutting device has a fast rate of fall.

2. A shrimp-handling machine according to claim 1 wherein the first and second engagement surfaces cooperate to control the fall rate of the adjustable cutting assembly.

3. A shrimp-handling machine as in claim 2 wherein the second engagement surface is a substantially planar surface extending at an angle from the first engagement surface.

4. A shrimp-handling machine according to claim 2 wherein the third engagement surface is adapted to control the duration of time the cutting device contacts the shrimp.

5. A shrimp-handling machine as in claim 2 wherein the third engagement surface is a generally curved surface extending from the second engagement surface.

6. A shrimp-handling machine as in claim 1 wherein the adjustment mechanism of the adjustable cam plate includes a slot having a first end and a second end.

7. A shrimp-handling machine according to claim 1 wherein the adjustable cutting assembly further includes a gear component operably coupled with the drive assembly, the gear component carrying rollers that selectively engage the engagement regions of the adjustable cam plate to cause the cutting device to move between the raised and lowered positions.

8. A shrimp-handling machine as in claim 1 wherein the adjustable cutting assembly further includes an arm with which the cutting device and the adjustable cam plate are operably coupled.

9. A shrimp-handling machine as in claim 1 wherein the adjustable cutting assembly further includes an alignment member having a body and a plurality of elongated fingers defining a gap therebetween to receive at least a portion of the cutting device when the adjustable cutting assembly is in the lowered position.

10. A shrimp-handling machine according to claim 1 wherein the shrimp support zone of the carriage member includes a plurality of raised portions defining an opening therebetween to receive at least a portion of the cutting device when the adjustable cutting assembly is in the lowered position.

11. A shrimp-handling machine as in claim 10 wherein the shrimp-supporting zone includes a first end and a second end with the first end having a first curvature and the second end having a second curvature.

12. A shrimp-handling machine as in claim 1 wherein the cutting device of the adjustable cutting assembly further includes a blade adapter to selectively couple a first blade or a second blade thereto.

13. An adjustable cutting assembly for a shrimp-handling machine, the adjustable cutting assembly comprising:

a cutting device; and

an adjustable cam plate operably coupled with the cutting device, the adjustable cam plate having a cam body, an adjustment mechanism, and an engagement region having a first engagement surface, a second engagement surface, and a third engagement surface, the adjustable cutting assembly being movable between a raised position and a lowered position;

wherein the adjustable cutting assembly is adjustable between a first configuration in which the cutting device has a slow rate of fall and a second configuration in which the cutting device has a fast rate of fall.

14. The adjustable cutting assembly of claim 13, wherein the first and second engagement surfaces cooperate to control the rate of fall of the adjustable cutting assembly.

15. The adjustable cutting assembly of claim 14, wherein the second engagement surface is a substantially planar surface extending at an angle from the first engagement surface.

16. The adjustable cutting assembly of claim 14, wherein the third engagement surface is adapted to control the duration of time the cutting device contacts the shrimp.

17. The adjustable cutting assembly of claim 14, wherein the third engagement surface is a generally curved surface extending from the second engagement surface.

18. The adjustable cutting assembly of claim 13, wherein the adjustment mechanism of the adjustable cam plate includes a slot having a first end and a second end.

19. The adjustable cutting assembly of claim 13, further including a gear member carrying a roller that selectively engages the engagement region of the adjustable cam plate to cause the cutting device to move between the raised position and the lowered position.

20. The adjustable cutting assembly of claim 13, further comprising an arm with which the cutting device and the adjustable cam plate are operably coupled.

21. The adjustable cutting assembly of claim 13, further comprising an alignment member having a body and a plurality of elongated fingers defining a gap therebetween to receive at least a portion of the cutting device when the adjustable cutting assembly is in the lowered position.

22. A cradle assembly for a shrimp-handling machine, the cradle assembly comprising:

a main body; and

a shrimp support zone adapted to at least partially support at least a portion of shrimp, the shrimp support zone including a plurality of elevated portions defining an opening therebetween to receive at least a portion of a cutting device during operation of the shrimp processing machine.

23. The tray member of claim 22, wherein the shrimp-supporting region includes a first end and a second end, wherein the first end has a first curvature and the second end has a second curvature.

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates generally to machines for processing shrimp and, more particularly, to semi-automated machines for processing shrimp.

Background

Historically, shrimp have been hand-processed for ready sale and consumption by consumers. In recent years, various types of automated or semi-automated shrimp processing machines have been implemented in processing facilities that are capable of partially or completely removing the shells of shrimp, thus preparing the shrimp meat for sale, cooking, and/or consumption. Some of these machines also have cutting capabilities that can cut shrimp meat at a desired location. Such machines may reduce overall processing time and provide consistent processing results.

Disclosure of Invention

In some embodiments of the present disclosure, a shrimp processing machine includes a frame assembly, a drive assembly coupled thereto, a carriage member, and an adjustable cutting assembly. The adjustable cutting assembly is movable between a raised position and a lowered position and includes a cutting device and an adjustable cam plate operably coupled with the cutting device. The adjustable cam plate has a cam body, an adjustment mechanism, and an engagement zone having first, second, and third engagement surfaces. The adjustable cutting assembly is adjustable between a first configuration in which the cutting device has a slow rate of fall and a second configuration in which the cutting device has a fast rate of fall.

In some embodiments, the first engagement surface and the second engagement surface cooperate to control the rate of fall of the adjustable cutting assembly. In some forms the second engagement surface is a substantially planar surface extending at an angle from the first engagement surface. In these and other examples, the third engagement surface is adapted to control the duration of time the cutting device contacts the shrimp. The third engagement surface may be a substantially curved surface extending from the second engagement surface.

In some examples, the adjustment mechanism of the adjustable cam plate may include a slot having first and second ends. In some examples, the adjustable cutting assembly may also include a gear member operably coupled with the drive assembly. The gear member may carry a roller that selectively engages an engagement region of the adjustable cam plate to cause the cutting device to move between the raised position and the lowered position.

In some forms, the adjustable cutting assembly may also include an arm. The cutting device and the adjustable cam plate may be operably coupled with the arm. Further, in some methods, the adjustable cutting assembly may include an alignment member having a body and a plurality of elongated fingers. The plurality of elongate fingers may define a gap therebetween to receive at least a portion of a cutting device when the adjustable cutting assembly is in the lowered position.

In some examples, the shrimp-supporting region of the carriage member includes a plurality of elevated portions defining an opening therebetween to receive at least a portion of the cutting device when the adjustable cutting assembly is in the lowered position. Further, in some examples, the shrimp-supporting region may include a first end and a second end, wherein the first end has a first curvature and the second end has a second curvature.

In some examples, the cutting device of the cutting assembly includes a blade adapter to selectively couple the first blade or the second blade therewith.

According to a second aspect, an adjustable cutting assembly for a shrimp-handling machine includes a cutting device and an adjustable cam plate operably coupled with the cutting device. The adjustable cam plate has a cam body, an adjustment mechanism, and an engagement zone having a first engagement surface, a second engagement surface, and a third engagement surface. The adjustable cutting assembly is movable between a raised position and a lowered position. Further, the adjustable cutting assembly is adjustable between a first configuration in which the cutting device has a slow rate of fall and a second configuration in which the cutting device has a fast rate of fall.

According to a third aspect, a tray assembly for a shrimp-handling machine includes a body and a shrimp-supporting region. The shrimp support zone is adapted to at least partially support at least a portion of the shrimp. The shrimp support zone includes a plurality of elevated portions defining an opening therebetween to receive at least a portion of the cutting device during operation of the shrimp processing machine.

Drawings

The above needs are at least partially met through provision of the shrimp handling apparatus described in the following detailed description, particularly when studied in conjunction with the drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective schematic view of an example shrimp-handling machine in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the example shrimp-handling machine of FIG. 1 with the protective covering removed, in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the example shrimp-handling machine of FIGS. 1 and 2, in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 4 illustrates a front perspective view of the example shrimp-processing machine of FIGS. 1-3 with an example processing assembly, in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 5 illustrates a side view of an example clamp mechanism for use with the example shrimp-handling machine of FIGS. 1-4, in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 6 illustrates a top plan view of the example clamp mechanism of FIG. 5, in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 7 shows a side view of an example carrier member used in the example processing assembly of FIGS. 4-6, in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 8 illustrates a top plan view of the example tray component of FIG. 7, in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 9 illustrates an upper perspective view of the example bracket component of FIGS. 7 and 8, in accordance with various embodiments

FIG. 10 illustrates a front elevation view of the example tray component of FIGS. 7-9, in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 11 shows a front perspective view of the example processing assembly of FIGS. 4-10, in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 12 shows a right side elevational view of the example processing assembly of FIGS. 4-11, in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 13 shows a left side elevation view of the example processing assembly of FIGS. 4-12, in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 14 shows an upper perspective view of the example processing assembly of FIGS. 4-13, in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 15 shows a right side perspective view of the example processing assembly of FIGS. 4-14, in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 16 shows a right side elevational view of the example processing assembly of FIGS. 4-15, in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 17 shows a right side elevational view of the example processing assembly of FIGS. 4-16 in a first orientation, in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 18 shows a right side elevational view of the example processing assembly of FIGS. 4-17 in a second orientation, in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 19 shows a rear perspective view of the example processing assembly of FIGS. 4-18, in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 20 illustrates a perspective view of an example cutting device for use with the example shrimp-handling assembly of FIGS. 1-19, in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 21 shows a perspective view of a second example cutting device for use with the example shrimp-handling assembly of FIGS. 1-19, in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 22 illustrates a perspective view of a third example cutting device for use with the example shrimp-handling assembly of FIGS. 1-19, in accordance with various embodiments; and

figure 23 illustrates an example alignment member for use with the example shrimp-handling assembly of figures 1-22, according to various embodiments.

Skilled artisans appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions and/or relative positioning of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of various embodiments of the present invention. Additionally, common but well-understood elements that are useful or necessary in a commercially feasible embodiment are often not depicted in order to facilitate a less obstructed view of these various embodiments. It will also be appreciated that certain actions and/or steps may be described or depicted in a particular order of occurrence while those skilled in the art will understand that such specificity with respect to sequence is not actually required. It will also be understood that the terms and expressions used herein have the ordinary technical meaning as is accorded to such terms and expressions by those skilled in the technical field as set forth above except where specific meanings have otherwise been set forth herein.

Detailed Description

Generally, the present disclosure relates to at least semi-automatic shrimp handling machines capable of adjustably cutting and sorting shrimp. More specifically, the shrimp-handling machine is capable of handling shrimp in a number of unique patterns and/or cuts. Thus, processing time can be greatly reduced compared to previously existing machines. The machine contains a number of adjustable assemblies to selectively cut and process shrimp of various sizes. The operator can quickly engage the adjustable assembly to quickly select the desired treatment setting.

Referring now to the drawings, a shrimp handling machine 10 is constructed in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure. The general construction and operation of machine 10 may be similar to any one or more of the machines disclosed in the following: commonly owned united states patent No. 2,850,761 filed on 5/3/1956, united states patent No. 3,214,789 filed on 1/28/1963, united states patent No. 3,238,561 filed on 3/8/1966, united states patent No. 3,247,542 filed on 4/26/1966, united states patent No. 6,533,651 filed on 3/27/2001, united states patent No. 6,485,363 filed on 3/27/2001, united states patent No. 7,867,067 filed on 3/12/2009, united states patent No. 9,833,005 filed on 1/9/2017, and united states application No. 62/987,074 filed on 3/9/2020, each of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

More specifically, the shrimp-handling machine 10 includes a housing 12, a frame assembly 13, a number of individual loading trays 14, and a handling assembly 16 operatively coupled with the frame assembly 13. Further, the shrimp-handling machine 10 includes a motor 18 coupled to a motor gear hub. The housing 12 defines a hopper 20 for receiving unprocessed shrimp 2. Individual loading trays 14 are positioned on a conveyor 22 and move adjacent to a hopper 20. The motor 18 actuates the conveyor 22 and the processing assembly 16 so that during operation, shrimp carried on the loading tray are delivered to the processing assembly 16 for processing.

The processing assembly 16 includes a drive assembly 24 in the form of a main gear, any number of individual shrimp gripper assemblies 30 (e.g., between two and eight shrimp gripper assemblies 30), and any number of stations to process the shrimps 2. The drive assembly 24 is operably coupled with the frame assembly 13 via any number of support members, brackets, arms, and the like. The processing assembly 16 includes several stations, such as an adjustable cutting assembly 120, an adjustable meat sorting assembly (not shown) cleaning station (not shown), a de-gut station (not shown), and the like, each of which may be disposed about the main gear 24.

As illustrated in fig. 3, the motor 18 is operatively coupled with a motor gear 18a via a bull gear axle 19 which is operatively coupled with a bull gear 24 such that it is driven by the motor 18. During operation, the motor 18 drives the motor gear 18a, and thus the bull gear 24, thereby causing the bull gear 24 to move in a rotational direction. The bull gear 24 is coupled to and/or supported by the bull gear axle 19.

As the main gear 24 rotates, the shrimp gripper mechanism 30 passes under the loading tray 14. As each gripper mechanism 30 passes over the tray 14, the gripper mechanisms 30 grasp the shrimp 2. With the shrimp 2 held by the clamp mechanism 30, continued rotation of the main gear 24 moves the shrimp 2 toward the work table (i.e., the adjustable cutting assembly 100 and any other work tables) for processing.

With particular reference to fig. 5-10, the gripper mechanism 30 has a first end 30a and a second end 30b and includes a main gripper 31, a small gripper assembly 61 and a tail breaker assembly 81. The main clamp 31 includes a first side plate 32 and a second side plate 42. In the illustrated example, the first side plate 32 and the second side plate 42 each include a lower portion and an upper portion and at least one support flange having an opening that receives a clamp rod. So configured, the first side plate 32 and the second side plate 42 are each rotatable relative to the clamp rod. Further, each side plate 32, 42 includes a drive arm mounting member 34, 44 positioned at or near a lower portion thereof that includes an aperture to receive a drive arm 56 coupled with a shock absorber 58. The clamp mechanism 30 also includes several resilient members (not shown) configured to cause the upper portions to move inwardly toward each other in a clamping motion.

Each of the first and second side plates 32, 42 includes a clamping surface or portion 36, 46 positioned at or near an upper portion thereof. More specifically, the clamp portions 36, 46 extend along the length (e.g., all or substantially all) of the upper portions of the first and second side plates 32, 42 and face "inwardly" toward one another. In the illustrated example, the clamp portions 36, 46 are in the form of distinct bracket members coupled with the first and second side plates 32, 42, but in other examples, the clamp portions 36, 46 may be integrally formed therewith. The clamping portions 36, 46 include any number of holes to receive clamp pins 59 in the form of conical members. In the illustrated example, the clamp portions 36, 46 include holes extending across all or substantially all of the length of the clamp portions 36, 46 to receive clamp pins 59. This configuration advantageously provides increased contact with the shrimp 2 at the body and head regions, resulting in a more secure retention of the shrimp 2. In other examples, the clamp pin 59 may be in the form of a different shape. Further, in some examples, the clamp pin 59 may be integrally formed with the clamp portions 36, 46.

The small gripper assembly 61 includes a first end plate 62 and a second end plate 72 positioned at the first end 30a of the gripper mechanism 30. The first and second end panels 62, 72 include similar features to the first and second side panels 32, 42. In the illustrated example, the first and second end plates 62, 72 each include a lower portion, an upper portion, at least one support flange having an opening that receives a second clamp bar to secure the first and second end plates 62, 72 with the bracket member 100. So configured, the first and second end plates 62, 72 are each rotatable relative to the clamp bar. Further, each of the first and second tip plates 62, 72 includes a drive arm mounting member 64, 74 positioned at or near a lower portion thereof that includes an aperture to receive the additional drive arm 56 coupled with the respective shock absorber 58. As previously described, any number of torsion springs may be disposed on and/or operatively coupled with the clamp bar to engage the first and second end plates 62, 72 to cause the upper portions to move inwardly toward each other in the clamping motion.

Each of the first and second tip plates 62, 72 also includes a clamping surface or portion 66, 76 positioned at or near an upper portion thereof. More specifically, the clamping portions 66, 76 extend along the length (e.g., all or substantially all) of the upper portions of the first and second tip plates 62, 72 and face "inwardly" toward one another. In the illustrated example, the clamping portions 66, 76 are in the form of distinct bracket members coupled to the first and second end plates 62, 72, but in other examples, the clamping portions 66, 76 may be integrally formed therewith. The clamp portions 66, 76 include any number of holes to receive the clamp pins 59 previously described. In some examples, the clamp pin 59 may be integrally formed with the clamping portions 64, 74.

The tail breaker assembly 81 includes a first breaker arm 82 and a second breaker arm 92 positioned near the first end 30a of the clamp mechanism 30. The first and second breaker arms 82, 92 include similar features to the first and second side plates 32, 42 and the first and second end plates 62, 72. In the illustrated example, the first and second breaker arms 82, 92 each include a lower portion, an upper portion, a first coupling portion in the form of an opening that receives a first coupling member to rotatably couple the first and second side plates 32, 42, respectively, and a second coupling portion in the form of an opening that receives a second coupling member to further couple the first and second side plates 32, 42, respectively, and restrict relative rotation therebetween. So configured, the first and second breaker arms 82, 92 are each rotatable relative to the first and second side plates 32, 42. Further, each of the first and second breaker arms 82, 92 includes an engagement arm member 84, 94 positioned at or near the upper portion. A number of resilient members may be operably coupled with the breaker arms and side plates to urge the upper portions of the first and second breaker arms 82, 92 outwardly such that the first and second breaker arms 82, 92 pivot about the first coupling member, thus having an open resting configuration.

Each of the first and second breaker arms 82, 92 further includes a gripping surface or portion 86, 96 positioned at or near an upper portion thereof. More specifically, the gripping portions 86, 96 extend along the length (e.g., all or substantially all) of the upper portions of the first and second breaker arms 82, 92 and face "inwardly" toward each other. In the illustrated example, the gripping portions 86, 96 are in the form of distinct bracket members coupled with the first and second breaker arms 82, 92, but in other examples, the gripping portions 86, 96 may be integrally formed therewith. The clamp portions 86, 96 include any number of holes to receive the clamp pins 59 previously described. In some examples, the clamp pin 59 may be integrally formed with the clamp portions 84, 94. The gripping portions 86, 96 are segmented into two sections that can be rotated relative to each other to break open the shrimp shells, thus separating the shrimp shells from the tail shell.

As previously described, each of the first and second side plates 32, 42, the first and second end plates 62, 72, and the first and second breaker arms 82, 92 are movable relative to each other and spring-loaded via respective springs such that the main clamp 31 and the end clamp 62 are biased toward the closed position and the tail breaker assembly 81 is biased toward the open position. In this configuration, the gripper pins 59 grip and hold the shrimp 2 within the gripper mechanism 30.

With particular reference to fig. 7-10, the gripper mechanism 30 of the processing assembly 16 also includes several carriage members 100 that are each operatively coupled with the main gear 24 and the gripper mechanism 30. The tray member 100 is generally anvil-shaped and includes a body 102 having a base 104 and shrimp-supporting regions 106. The base 104 includes any number of mounting members in the form of holes 108 to receive bolts or pins (not shown) to couple the cradle member 100 and the main gear 24. In some examples, the main gear 24 may include a mounting plate (not shown) to which the carriage member 100 may be operably coupled. The body 102 also contains a rod bore (not shown) to receive a clamp rod to couple the clamp mechanism 30 thereto.

The shrimp support areas 106 define one or more surfaces on which the shrimps 2 rest during processing. The shrimp-supporting region 106 includes a generally curved surface having a first end 106a and a second end 106 b. As illustrated in fig. 7, the first end 106a of the shrimp support zone 106 has a different curvature than its second end 106 b. More specifically, the first end 106a has a smaller radius of curvature than the second end 106b to help properly seat and retain the shrimp 2 within the main clamp 31.

The shrimp-supporting region 106 also includes a number of elevated portions 109 extending therefrom that are separated by a central opening or recess 110. In some examples, the grooves 110 extend to a depth below the support surface of the shrimp-supporting region 106. Other arrangements are possible. In particular, by providing a raised recess arrangement, the shrimp 2 may be cut in a number of patterns, such as western style cuts, where a cutting device or blade may be lowered into the recess 110 to completely cut the shrimp 2 while the cutting device avoids contacting the carriage assembly 100. In addition, the raised protrusion 109 provides an advantageous profile and height relative to the clamp pin 59. More specifically, the raised portion 109 allows the gripper pins 59 to more securely hold the shrimp 2, thus helping to properly position the shrimp 2 relative to the gripper assembly 30.

Referring to fig. 11-18, adjustable cutting assembly 120 includes an arm 122, a drive gear 126 having at least one roller 130 coupled thereto, an adjustable cam plate 134, and a cutting device 146. The arm 122 includes a body 123 and is rotatably mounted with the frame assembly 13 via a generally cylindrical pivot rod 121 inserted through the frame mounting hole 123 a. Pivot rod 121 engages arm 122 such that rotation of arm 122 causes pivot rod 121 to also rotate. The arm 122 may be operably coupled with the pivot rod 121 via any number of suitable methods.

The arm 122 also includes several additional mounting portions to receive the adjustable cam plate 134 and the cutting device 146. More specifically, the main body 123 includes a second mounting hole 123b that receives a cutter bar 147 coupled with the cutting device 146. As will be discussed in further detail, the cutter bar 147 is fixedly coupled with the arm 122 such that rotational movement of the arm 122 causes the cutter bar 147, and thus the cutting device 146, to also rotate. Further, a pin 125 is coupled to or integrally formed with the body 123 and protrudes outwardly therefrom.

As illustrated in fig. 11 and 12, the drive gear 126 is operatively coupled with the main gear 24 via the reduction gear 25. Rotation of the main gear 24 causes the drive gear 126 to rotate in a clockwise direction. This rotation also causes the roller 130 to rotate to selectively engage the adjustable cam plate 134. Drive gear 126 may be coupled with additional gear components to drive additional components for further processing.

The adjustable cam plate 134 includes a body having an opening or aperture 134a through which the cutter bar 147 passes, thereby permitting relative rotational movement between the cutter bar 147 and the adjustable cam plate 134. Adjustable cam plate 134 also includes an engagement region 134b having a first engagement surface 135, a second engagement surface 136, and a third engagement surface 137, as well as a mounting slot 138 and a recessed region 139. The engagement zone 134b is selectively contacted by the roller 130 to cause the cam plate 134, and thus the arm 122 and cutting device 146, to move to different positions (e.g., raised and lowered positions) during operation of the shrimp-handling machine 100. A pin 125 coupled with the body 123 of the arm 122 is slidably disposed within the mounting slot 138 to allow relative movement between the arm 122 and the adjustable cam plate 134.

As illustrated in fig. 15, a cam plate bracket 140 is provided to movably couple arm 122 with adjustable cam plate 134. More specifically, the cam plate bracket 140 includes a body having a slot 141 and a pin hole 142 that receives a pin 125 coupled with the body 123 of the arm 122 to allow relative translational movement between the arm 122, the adjustable cam plate 134, and the cam plate bracket 140. The slots 141 are configured to receive wing nuts 144 or other fastening mechanisms to fasten the cam plate bracket 140 with the arms 122.

As previously described, the cutting device 146 includes a cutter bar 147 disposed through the arm 122. The cutter bar 147 is generally hollow and receives a cutter drive bar 148 having a first end 148a and a second end 148 b. The cutter bar 147 has a shorter length than the cutter drive bar 148, and thus, the cutter drive bar 148 extends outwardly from the cutter bar 147. The first end 148a of the cutter drive bar 148 includes a cutter drive gear 149 operably coupled with the drive gear 24 via any number of methods, such as a belt, a series of gears, or the like (not shown). Other examples are possible. Cutter drive gear 149 is fixedly coupled with cutter drive rod 148 such that rotation of cutter drive gear 149 causes cutter drive rod 148 to also rotate.

The blade 154 is operably coupled with the second end 148b of the cutter drive bar 148. More specifically, and as illustrated in fig. 14, 19 and 20, the second end 148b of the cutter drive bar 148 receives the cutter blade adapter 151 via an internal bore 151 a. In some examples, the internal bore 151a of the cutter blade adapter 151 may be keyed such that it mates with a corresponding surface of the cutter drive bar 148 to cause the cutter drive bar 148 and cutter blade adapter 151 to rotate together. Cutter blade adapter 151 also includes a blade coupling surface 151b on which blade 154 is mounted. As illustrated in fig. 20, the insert coupling surface 151b may be hexagonal to mate with a corresponding hexagonal opening of the insert 154. Other examples of suitable shapes are possible.

In some examples and as illustrated in fig. 20, blades 154 may be in the form of primary and secondary blades separated by spacers 155. Blade 154 may also include a retaining member 154a that receives a retaining pin disposed on cutter blade adapter 151 to further secure cutter blade adapter 151 and blade 154. Other examples of suitable retaining mechanisms are possible, such as a reverse arrangement in which the blade 154 carries retaining pins that are inserted into corresponding openings on the cutter blade adapter 151. The second end 148b of the cutter drive bar 148 also includes a threaded portion 150 to receive a lock nut 156 to secure a blade 154 to the cutter drive bar 148. In some examples, the cutting device 146 also includes a bracket 157 that couples the pivot rod 121 with the cutter bar 147 and/or the cutter drive bar 148.

Returning to fig. 14 to 18, the engagement zone 134b controls the timing of the movement of the arm 122, and thus the cutting device 146. More specifically, the first engagement surface 135 controls when the cutting device 146 moves to the raised position, the second engagement surface 136 controls the "drop" rate of the cutting device 146 (i.e., when and how fast the cutting device 146 is lowered to begin cutting the shrimp 2), and the third engagement surface 137 controls the "dwell time" of the cutting device 146 (i.e., how long and how fast the cutting device 146 is raised to stop cutting the shrimp 2). In the illustrated example, the second engagement surface 136 is substantially planar and extends at an angle relative to the first engagement surface 135. The third engagement surface 136 is a generally curved surface extending from the second engagement surface 137.

In operation, as the main gear 24 rotates, the shrimp 2 disposed in the loading tray 14 move toward one of the gripper mechanisms 30 that rotates along with the main gear 24. The gripper mechanism 30 then holds the shrimp 2 and continues to move along the main gear 24. Further, the drive gear 126 and the roller 130 rotate in a clockwise direction (relative to the views shown in fig. 12 and 13). At this point, the shrimp 2 carried by the fixture mechanism 30 are advanced toward the adjustable cutting assembly 120. Continued rotation of drive gear 126 causes roller 130 to contact and engage first engagement surface 135 of adjustable cam plate 134, which in turn pushes adjustable cam plate 134 upward. Because the adjustable cam plate 134 is coupled to the arm 122, which in turn is coupled to the cutting device 146, the arm 122 and the cutting device 146 also rotate upward about the pivot rod 121 to a raised position.

The roller 130 continues to move along the length of the first engagement surface 135 until it contacts the second engagement surface 136. This movement causes adjustable cam plate 134, arm 122 and cutting device 146 to "drop" or rotate downward about pivot arm 121 to a lowered position. At or before this time, the cutter drive gear 149 may be engaged to cause the cutter drive rod 148 to rotate, thereby rotating the blades 154 to begin cutting the shrimp 2. The depth of cut and rate of fall of the blade 154 is determined by the length of the second engagement surface 136 and the relative angle between the first engagement surface 135 and the second engagement surface 136.

The roller 130 continues to move along the length of the second engagement surface 136 until it contacts the third engagement surface 137. This movement causes adjustable cam plate 134, arm 122 and cutting device 146 to again rotate upwardly about pivot arm 121. The blade 154 continues to cut the shrimp 2 while the gripper mechanism 30 advances the blade 154 toward the head of the shrimp 2. Furthermore, the curvature of the third engagement surface 136 causes the depth of the blade 154, and thus the cut, to slowly decrease until the roller 130 disengages from the third engagement surface 137. At this point, the shrimp 2 proceed to a subsequent station for further processing. The dwell time of the blade 154 is determined by the length and curvature of the third engagement surface 137 and the relative angle between the second engagement surface 136 and the third engagement surface 137.

As previously described, the adjustable cam plate 134 may be adjusted to change the timing of the movement of the arm 122 and the cutting device 146. More specifically and with reference to fig. 17 and 18, adjustable cam plate 134 may be rotated relative to arm 122 by loosening wing nuts 144 and rotating adjustable cam plate 134 about aperture 134 a. During this movement, the pin 125 inserted into the mounting slot 138 may travel along the length of the mounting slot. As illustrated in fig. 18, adjustable cam plate 134 may be rotated downward relative to arm 122, and this (and any other) relative positioning may be maintained by tightening wing nuts 144 to tighten cam plate bracket 140. Cam plate carrier 140 is free to rotate within recessed area 139 of adjustable cam plate 134.

Due to the adjustability of the adjustable cam plate 134, the timing of the adjustable cutting assembly 120 may be modified. More specifically, in the configuration shown in fig. 17, the engagement between the roller 130 and the engagement zone 134b of the adjustable cam plate 134 causes the adjustable cutting assembly 120, and in particular the blade 154, to fall at the fastest rate while quickly disengaging from the shrimp 2. This arrangement will cause the blades 154 to cut the shrimp 2 at or near the joint for a clean western cut. In contrast, in the configuration shown in fig. 18, the engagement between the rollers 130 and the engagement zone 134 of the adjustable cam plate 134 causes the adjustable cutting assembly, and in particular the blade 154, to fall at a relatively slow rate and remain engaged with the shrimp 2 for a longer period of time (i.e., with a longer dwell time). In such a configuration, the blades 154 may gradually change depth as they approach the heads of the shrimp. Thus, the adjustable cutting assembly 120 may quickly enable a user to select between desired cutting patterns, such as gradually cutting butterflies, circular butterflies, and the like. Other examples are possible.

As illustrated in fig. 11, 12, 14, 16, and 19, the cutting device 146 also includes an alignment member 158 having a body 159 and a groove 159a disposed therein. During operation of the shrimp-handling machine 10, the body 159 may dock with the shrimps 2 held in the fixture 30 and the blade 154 may be moved to a lowered position by passing through the groove 159a of the alignment member 158 to cut the shrimps 2 (as illustrated in fig. 16).

As previously described, immediately after cutting the shrimp 2, any additional processing may occur, such as breaking the tail, separating the shrimp heads, destinking, and/or cleaning. These processing steps may occur before or after the fixture mechanism 30 and shrimp 2 reach the adjustable cutting assembly 120.

Referring to fig. 19-22, the shrimp-handling machine 10 may be used with several different replaceable blades to provide the desired cutting pattern. To ensure that the correct blades are used for the desired cutting, the shrimp-handling machine 100 uses different cutter blade adapters 151 specifically sized for certain blades. More specifically, referring to fig. 20, a single blade 154 may be coupled with cutter blade adapter 151. In particular, the single blade configuration can accommodate a displaced centerline through the use of spacers. Referring to fig. 21, cutter blade adapter 151 may be used with dual cutter blades 154 separated by spacers 155. Referring to fig. 22, cutter blade adapter 151 'may be used with blades 154' having larger diameters for performing different cuts. In the illustrated example, cutter blade adapter 151 ' has a blade coupling surface 151b ' having a different shape and/or a larger outer dimension (e.g., diameter) to mate with a corresponding blade 154 ' having a corresponding opening dimension (e.g., diameter). Thus, the blades 154, 154 'may only be used with the designated cutter blade adapters 151, 151'.

In some examples, the contour of the land 134b can be adjusted as needed to accommodate any number of desired shrimp cuts and styles. For example, the adjustable cam plate 134 may be machined such that the length and relative shape of the first engagement surface 135, second engagement surface 136 and third engagement surface 137 produce a desired cut length and depth on a shrimp. Thus, the customer can create custom cuts that differ from the more conventional cut patterns as desired.

The shrimp-handling machine 10 described herein may be constructed using any number of suitable alternative methods. For example, FIG. 23 illustrates a second example alignment member 258. It should be appreciated that the alignment member 258 shown in fig. 23 may include similar features to the alignment member 158, and therefore, the elements shown in fig. 23 are designated by like reference numerals increased by 100 as indicated in the embodiments shown in fig. 1 through 22. Therefore, these features will not be described in considerable detail. Further, it should be appreciated that any of the elements described with respect to the alignment member 158 may be incorporated into the alignment member 258.

In this example, the alignment member 258 includes a body 259 having a number of elongated fingers 260 extending therefrom. These elongated fingers may be constructed of bent tube steel or any other suitable material, and may be integrally formed with the body 259 or coupled thereto via any number of suitable methods (e.g., welding, adhesives, fasteners, and the like). The elongate fingers 260 define a gap 259a therebetween to receive the blade during operation of the machine. So configured, the alignment member 258 can be easily constructed and requires a minimum of machining steps.

In light of the foregoing, a unique shrimp-handling machine is efficiently adjustable to accommodate cutting, cleaning, and removal of shrimp meat with shrimp of different sizes. The adjustable nature of the machine may reduce processing time by requiring minimal effort to adjust the machine in a desired manner.

Those skilled in the art will recognize that a wide variety of modifications, alterations, and combinations can be made with respect to the above described embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention, and that such modifications, alterations, and combinations are to be viewed as being within the ambit of the inventive concept.

Patent claims at the end of this patent application are not intended to be construed in accordance with 35 u.s.c. § 112(f), unless a conventional means-plus-function language (such as "means-for-say.," or "step-for-say.," is expressly recited in the claims. The systems and methods described herein relate to improvements in computer functionality and to improvements in the functionality of conventional computers.