Process for removing packaging materials from packaged products
US4486645A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 28, 1981 |
| Grant date | Dec 4, 1984 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 28, 2001 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB23K2103/50
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method of removing cellulose casings from sausages without causing damage to the sausages. The method employs a continuous laser beam having a wavelength ranging from 1 to 15 microns, at an applied energy density ranging from 20 to 60 joules per square centimeter. The sausages are transported beneath the laser beam, which is focused nominally at the surface of the sausages at a focal length ranging from 6.3 to 15 centimeters. Alternatively, the laser beam may be focused nominally at the longitudinal center of the sausages, with the laser beam having a focal length ranging from 6.3 to 15 centimeters. As each sausage is moved beneath the laser beam, the cellulose casing is vaporized to create an elongated slit in the casing. The casing is then pulled from the sausage.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.