Method and apparatus for efficient automated production of deboned and other meat cuts utilizing an ultrasonic knife and coupled controller

US11992931B1 · kind B1 · utility

Assignee

• Tyson Foods, Inc. · US

Inventors

• Doug Foreman · Springdale, US
• Gilbert Ray Mitchell · Springdale, US
• Levi H. Armstrong · Saginaw, US
• Joshua D. Langsfeld · Austin, US
• Jorge Luis Nicho · San Antonio, US
• Tomas A. Blodgett · Fayetteville, US
• Shane Thomas Shelboum · Silent Grove, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Nov 27, 2018
• Grant date: May 28, 2024
• Expiry date: Dec 20, 2038

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B26D2001/0086
• WIPO field: Machine tools
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

The technology as disclosed herein includes a method and apparatus for deboning a meat item, and more particular for deboning a poultry item including performing an initial shoulder cut for removing boneless breast meat from the poultry carcass or frame. The method and apparatus disclosed and claimed herein is a combination of a robotic arm including an ultrasonic knife implement and a vision system for varying the cut path based on the shape and size of the poultry item. The combination as claimed including the ultrasonic knife can perform a meat cut while penetrating the meat with less force than the typical penetration that occurs when using a traditional knife.