US 10,561,151 B2 · Offset weighing apparatus

Abstract

An offset weighing apparatus and method for use with poultry processing equipment includes a weigh assembly to weigh an animal connected to a shackle assembly as the shackle moves in contact with a force sensor along a conveyor line. A diverter assembly laterally displaces a shackle retaining the animal from below the conveyor line into engagement with the force sensor. The bending axis of the force sensor is approximately parallel to the displaced shackle. The angular position of the bending axis and shackle, and relative positions, friction, and forces of the components of the shackle assembly and weigh assembly are analyzed to calculate the weight of the animal connected to the shackle without removing the animal from the shackle or ceasing movement of the conveyor line.

Claims16

Dependent claims

A weighing apparatus for a conveyor line, the weighing apparatus comprising:

a force sensor disposed adjacent a vertical plane, the vertical plane extending downward from the conveyor line;
a segment connected to the force sensor, the segment extending from a first end to a second end, the segment extending parallel to the conveyor line;
a first rail extending between a first end at the vertical plane beneath the conveyor line and the segment first end;
a second rail extending between the segment second end and a second end at the vertical plane beneath the conveyor line;
wherein the first rail, segment, and second rail form an arch between the first rail first end and the second rail second end;
and
a poultry shackle, comprising:
a force sensor contact;
wherein the poultry shackle moves on the conveyor line relative to the force sensor;
and
wherein the force sensor contact moves along the segment between the second segment first end and second segment second end.

8 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Offset weighing apparatus

Life of this patent

Offset weighing apparatus

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims16