The present invention relates to the field of product processing, in particular to the processing of foodstuff products, e.g. animal protein products such poultry products, red meat products, and fish products.

In the processing of product, the product is usually transported in a conveying path passed a plurality of processing station. In some of these processing stations, one or more operators perform actions. These actions can e.g. include arranging the product in a holder, removing the product from the holder, repositioning the product, performing a visual inspection of the product, or performing a cut or incision on the product.

In conventional systems, the operator must make a fast analysis and decide on which holder or foodstuff part he has to perform the action. As is the case with any human action, it has been found that mistakes are made by operators sometimes. This results in situations wherein a required action has not been performed, or is performed on the wrong holder of product.

An object of the invention is to overcome or at least partially mitigate the disadvantages of the prior art, or at least provide an alternative.

This object is achieved with system for processing a product such as foodstuff product, e.g. an animal protein product, comprising:

• a conveyor system for transporting a plurality of products in a conveying path,

• a visual indicator system comprising a plurality of visual indicators,

• a control unit configured to determine a visual indicator output associated with at least one of:

• a first product of the plurality of products, or

• a first holder of a plurality of holders of the conveyor system, said first holder being configured to hold a first product of the plurality of products, wherein the control unit is configured to control the visual indicators to generate a moving visual output based on the visual indicator output, wherein said moving visual output is configured to:

• move along with the first product when the first product is transported in the conveying path, for at least a part of said conveying path; or

• move along with the first holder when the first holder is transported in the conveying path, for at least a part of said conveying path.

The invention relates to a system for processing a product. The product can e.g. be a foodstuff product. Said foodstuff product can be any kind of product, e.g. a plant-based product or an animal protein product. Plant-based product can e.g. include plant-based meat replacers such as plant-based hamburgers, plant-based steaks, plant-based sausages. Animal protein product can e.g. include any product derived from an animal, said animal e.g. being poultry such as chicken; red meat such as a bovine or porcine animal; fish such as cod, salmon, or tilapia; or a derived animal product such as a poultry egg. The animal protein product can be a slaughtered animal (part) or a living animal, e.g. intended to be slaughtered. The animal protein product can e.g. be processed meat product such as a hamburger, marinated meat part, sausage, breaded meat part, or covered meat part. However, it is envisaged that the invention can also be applied to non-foodstuff products.

The system comprises a conveyor system for transporting a plurality of products in a conveying path. The conveyor system can e.g. comprise a plurality of holders configured to hold a product, wherein the conveyor system can be configured to transport the holders. For example, the conveyor system can be an overhead conveyor. For example, the holders can be shackles, e.g. configured to hold a slaughtered animal by its extremities, e.g. by the leg(s) or foot/feet. It is also possible that the conveyor system comprises a conveying belt configured to support the products and transport the products. The conveying path can e.g. include be linear or curved, e.g. in a carrousel. The conveying path can e.g. include one or more processing stations, wherein the products are processed. Such processing stations can e.g. include one or more of the following: a loading station the product in the conveyor system; an assessment station for assessing the product, e.g. measuring, weighing, or analyzing at least one property of the product; an incision station for making an incision in the product; a cutting station for cutting the product in at least two parts; a skinning station for removing a skin of the product; a deboning station for removing a (fish) bone from the product; a unloading station for removing the product from the conveyor system; a packaging station for packaging the product; a mincing station for turning the product into minced meat; a minced meat processing station for turning a minced product into a further product such as a hamburger or chicken nugget.

The system further comprises a visual indicator system. The visual indicator system comprises a plurality of visual indicators. The visual indicators may e.g. be lights, e.g. comprising one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Each visual indicator may e.g. comprise a plurality of LEDs configured to generate light in different colours. Optionally, the visual indicators are physically arranged in series to each other and optionally said series of visual indicators is physically arranged in parallel to the conveyor path for at least a part of the conveying path. For example, the visual indicators may be arranged parallel to the conveyor path at a processing station configured for an operator to perform an action of the product.

Optionally, the visual indicators are arranged along the conveying path.

The system further comprises a control unit configured to determine a visual indicator output. The visual indicator output can e.g. correspond light being or not being emitted, or a certain colour of light being emitted, or a sequence of light being emitted, e.g. a flashing light or a sequence of different colours of light. The visual indicator output can e.g. be associated with a first product of the plurality of products. In embodiments wherein the conveyor system comprises a plurality of holders, it is also possible that the visual indicator output is associated with a first holder of said plurality of holders. The first holder is configured to hold a first product. Thus, the visual indicator output is associated with the first product or with the first holder which is configured to hold the first product.

The control unit is further configured to control the visual indicators to generate a moving visual output. The moving visual output is based on the visual indicator output, as determined by the control unit, such that the respective visual indicator generate said visual indicator output. The moving visual output is moving in the way that it moves along for at least a part of the conveying path. When the visual indicator output is associated with the first product, the moving visual output is configured to move along with the first product when the first product is transported in the conveying path. When the visual indicator output is associated with the first holder, the moving visual output is configured to move along with the first holder when the first holder is transported in the conveying path. The generate the moving visual output, one or more visual indicators can e.g. be configured to move along with the first product or first holder, or different visual indicators can be controlled to generate the visual indicator output, depending on the location of the first product or the first holder.

The control unit can be any type of suitable type of control unit, e.g. being embodied in a computer, PLC, raspberry pi, or the like. The control unit can be configured to control additional parts of the system, such as the conveyor system or the visual indicator system, or be configured to be in communication with additional control units for controlling such additional parts. The control unit can e.g. be configured to control the moving visual output based on a conveyor speed of the conveyor. The control unit can e.g. control the visual indicators directly, or indirectly by means of a visual indicator system control unit configured to control the visual indicators and be in communication with the control unit. The control unit can e.g. comprise one or more input terminals, output terminals, or communication terminals for communicating with other components. Said communication can be wired or wireless, according to any of suitable communication method or protocol, e.g. using Bluetooth or a Wi-Fi network.

The invention thus provides a moving visual output associated with the first product or with the first holder. The moving visual output is configured to provide information to an operator. The operator can decide which action he or she must perform on the first product or the first holder based on the moving visual output. This makes it easier and reduces the likelihood of mistakes made by the operators. In addition, because the moving visual output moves along with the first product or the first holder, the system can be used with moving conveyor systems.

In embodiments, the visual indicators are stationary. Thus, the visual indicators themselves do not move in the conveying direction. The position of each visual indicator is fixed. In these embodiments, the moving visual output can be achieved by generating the visual indicator output with different visual indicators depending on the location of the first holder of the first product.

In embodiments, each visual indicator is configured to emit radiation in a radiation direction, wherein said radiation direction is stationary. Thus, said radiation direction is fixed. The radiation direction is not changed by e.g. turning or rotating the visual indicator to generate the moving visual output. In embodiments, the visual indicator system is physically separated from the conveyor system. In embodiments wherein the conveyor system comprises holders, the visual indicators are physically separated from the holders. In embodiments wherein the conveyor system comprises a conveying belt, the visual indicators are physically separated from the conveying belt.

In embodiments, the visual indicator system is configured to generate the moving visual output by sequentially generating the visual indicator output with a subset of the plurality of visual indicators, said subset corresponding to a location of the first product or the first holder. Thus, based on where the first product or the first holder is located, a different subset of visual indicators is outputting the visual indicator output. As such, the moving visual output moves along with the first product or the first holder. For example, the control unit may be configured to control which visual indicators are included in the subset. The subset may include one or more visual indicators. For example, the control unit can be configured to determine the location of the first product or the first holder, for example based on a conveyor speed. The control unit may e.g. comprise a memory in which the conveyor speed is stored, or the control unit can be configured to control or interact with a conveyor control unit. The conveyor speed can e.g. be up to 1 m/s or 2 m/s.

In embodiments, the plurality of visual indicators may be lights. For example, each visual indicator may include one or more LEDs, for example having multiple LEDs configured to emit light in a different colour, for example including white, red, blue, green. In embodiments, the visual indicator system can comprise a LED-strip, wherein the visual indicators are the LEDs of the LED-strip. Using a LED-strip, sometimes also referred to as LED-tape or ribbon light, advantageously provides a relatively simple and cheap solution.

In embodiments, the control unit is configured to receive an identification signal for identifying the first product and/or the first holder, wherein the control unit is configured to determine the visual indicator output based on the identification signal. The identification of the first product and/or first holder enables the control unit to determine the associated visual indicator output. For example, the control unit can comprise a memory configured to store information on the first product and/or the first holder, and/or the control unit can be configured to receive such information, e.g. from a control unit of another component or system. Said information can e.g. relate to the history, origin, performance, purpose, intended processing steps, prior measurements, etc, of the first product and/or the first holder. For example, said information can relate to previous processing stations which have processed the first foodstuff product, e.g. which oven or which nozzle has been used.

In embodiments, the system further comprises an identification module configured to identify the first holder or the first product, and generate the identification signal. For example, the identification module can comprise an RFID- reader for reading an RFID-tag on the first holder. For example, the identification module can comprise a code-reader for reading a code on the first holder, said code e.g. being a barcode or QR-code. Optionally, the control unit is configured to match the identification signal to a first holder or first product, e.g. based on information comprised by a memory. Optionally, the identification module is configured to match a reading to a first holder or first product, such that the identification module comprises information about which holder or product has been identified. In embodiments, the holders each comprise an identificator. The identificator can e.g. be an RFID-tag, a barcode, or an QR-code.

In embodiments, the control unit is configured to control a timing and/or positioning of the visual indicator output based on an expected position in time of the first holder and/or the first product. Thus, in these embodiments it is not necessarily required to identify the first holder and/or the first product. Based on e.g. a known conveying speed of the conveyor, it can be determined when the first holder and/or first product is at a certain position, and the visual indicator output can be controlled accordingly.

In embodiments, the control unit is configured to receive a product assessment signal associated with the first product, and wherein the control unit is configured to determine the visual indicator output based on said product assessment signal. It is noted that even if the control unit is configured to determine the visual indicator output being associated with the first holder, the product assessment can be related to the first product held by the first holder. The product assessment signal may be based on an assessment of the product. Based on the assessment of the product, it can be determined that an action should be performed by an operator. The visual indicator output can be determined accordingly, such that the operator knows what action to perform when he sees the moving visual output. For example, if the product assessment signal indicates that the first foodstuff is rejected, the visual indicator output can be configured to indicate to the operator to unload first product. Such rejection may include complete rejection or an indication that the product should be moved to another processing line. For example, the visual indicator output can be configured to inform an operator about a reason for a rejection, which may e.g. include an undesired amount of blood or fat. For example, the product assessment signal may indicate a potential issue with the product, wherein the visual indicator output can be configured to inform an operator that further assessment is required, e.g. analyzing a core temperature.

In embodiments, the product assessment signal is generated at a processing station upstream of the visual indicator system. For example, the control unit may be configured to receive the product assessment signal from an assessment station, wherein the assessment station is arranged upstream of the visual indicator system. For example, the conveyor system may first transport the first product by the assessment station, and later by the visual indicator system.

In embodiments, the system comprises an automated product assessment system configured to generate the product assessment signal, wherein said automated product assessment system comprises at least one sensor for assessing at least one property of the product. For example, the sensor can be a visual sensorsuch as a camera, a radiation sensor such as an X-ray, a weight measuring sensor, or a temperature measuring sensor. The property can e.g. be an amount a fat, an amount of blood, the presence of one or more diseases, a size, a weight. By assessing the property and generating the product assessment signal based thereon, the control unit can determine which action the operator should perform and base the visual indicator output based thereon. Using an automated product assessment signal comprising the sensor, can reduce the number of operators required and may increase accuracy of assessment.

In embodiments, the system comprises an operator assessment input module configured to receive an assessment input from an operator and configured to generate the product assessment signal based on said input. The operator can perform the assessment on the product, e.g. visually or by reading out a measurement. When said operator determines that a certain action should be taken, he can give the corresponding assessment input. The control unit then receives the product assessment signal and will determine the visual indicator output accordingly, such that another operator will perform the desired action based on the moving visual output. The operator input module can e.g. be a push button. The operator input module can e.g. a computer, tablet, touch screen, or the like.

In embodiments, the system may comprise an assessment identification module, configured to identify a product on which the assessment is performed, or a holder in which a product is arranged on which the assessment is performed. The assessment identification module can e.g. be configured to generate an assessment identification signal, wherein e.g. the control unit is configured to match the product assessment signal to the first product based on the assessment identification signal.

It is noted that the assessment in the assessment station, and/or with the automated product assessment system, and/or with the operator assessment input module, can be associated with the first product even if not performed on said same first product being arranged in the first holder, when applicable. For example, during the assessment, the first product can be arranged in a different holder, e.g. a different type of holder. For example, the first product can be a part of the product on which the assessment is performed, e.g. wherein assessment is performed on a whole slaughtered animal and the first product is a slaughtered animal part. For example, a weight of a whole poultry can be determined, based on which a breast fillet can be selected for a certain operation, said breast fillet being the first product. It can even be possible that the assessment is performed on a different subproduct. For example, if an assessment of poultry intestines indicates the poultry was ill, parts already cut off can be rejected, said parts being the first product.

In embodiments, the visual indicator system is arranged at a product loading station configured to allow multiple operators to arrange products in the holders, wherein the control unit is configured to determine the visual indicator output based on by which operator the holder is configured to be loaded. The operators can thus easily see in which holder they are supposed to load a product, reducing the mistakes in loading an incorrect holder, as well as allowing them to focus more on the actual loading and thus performing this action better. Optionally, the control unit is configured to indicate a fixed sequence of visual indicator outputs based on a fixed order of operators. For example, if three operators are working at the product loading station, the holders that arrive first, fourth, seventh, ... can be indicated to be loaded by a first operator. Thus, it is not required to identify every holder in this embodiment, if the speed and spacing between the holders is known by the control unit. In embodiments, the visual indicator system is arranged at a carrousel station comprising a plurality of processing units configured to perform an operation on the product while moving along with the product along a part of the conveying path, wherein the control unit is configured to determine the visual indicator output based on the processing unit that is associated with the first product and/or the first holder. Carrousel machines, also called turret machines, are well-known in the fields of foodstuff product processing, in particular in the field of poultry processing, and can be used for all types of processing steps or operations. It may in some cases be relevant to know by which processing unit a product is being or has been processed. It may for example be possible that the visual indicator system is arranged at the carrousel station and be configured to generate the moving visual output moving along with the first foodstuff product and/or first holder while moving the carrousel. It is also possible that the visual indicator system may be arranged downstream of the carrousel station, wherein e.g. the carrousel station comprises a processing unit matching module configured provide a processing unit matching signal to the control unit. Said processing unit matching module may e.g. be configured to identify the first foodstuff product and/or first holder, and match it to the processing unit that performed the operation on the first foodstuff product.

In embodiments, the visual indicator system is arranged at a product unloading station configured to allow an operator to unload a product from the conveyor system, wherein the control unit is configured to determine the visual indicator output to indicate to the operator whether to unload the first product from the conveyor system. In one possible application of this embodiment, the product unloading station is configured to allow multiple operators to unload products from the holders, wherein the control unit is configured to determine the visual indicator output based on by which operator the holder is configured to be unloaded. In another possible application of this embodiment, the product unloading station is provided for unloading only a portion of the foodstuff products, and the moving visual light output is configured to indicate to the operator which foodstuff products to unload. This may for example be the case when only foodstuff products should be unloaded when they are rejected, or selected to be moved to another processing line or step. It is also possible that the system is used for processing multiple small-batch products, e.g. intended to be different end-products, at the same time, wherein some should be unloaded at the unloading station while others will be further processed by one or more downstream processing stations.

In embodiments, the control unit is configured to receive a holder performance status associated with the first holder, wherein the control unit is configured to determine the visual indicator based on the holder performance status, e.g. to indicate whether the holder requires maintenance. The holder performance status can e.g. be inputted by an operator, or can be determined based on the performance of the first holder. For example, if the first holder fails to load a product, this may indicate a problem with the first holder. For example, if a processing step performed on a foodstuff product fails, this may indicate a problem with the first holder. Such failed processing step may e.g. be an inaccurate cut or a failed or incorrect dividing of the product in parts. When is determined that there a problem with the first holder, this can be indicated using the moving visual output. This may e.g. allow the operators in a loading station to know that this holder should not be loaded with a product. It can also allow operators to remove the first holder from the conveyor system, e.g. for maintenance or replacement. It is also possible that the control unit maintains a maintenance history of the first holder, e.g. in a memory, and indicates with the holder performance status that a (periodic) maintenance is required on the first holder.

The invention further relates to a method for processing a product. Although the method can be performed with the system according to the invention; neither the system, nor the method is limited thereto. Features explained herein with reference to the system have the same meaning with respect to the method unless explicitly defined otherwise. Features explained with reference to the system can be applied mutatis mutandis to the method to achieve the similar advantages.

The object of the invention can e.g. be achieved with a method for processing a product, wherein optionally the product is foodstuff product such as an animal protein product, comprising a step of using a system according to any of according to any embodiments described herein.

The object of the invention can e.g. be achieved with a method for processing a product such as an animal protein product, comprising the following steps:

• transporting a plurality of products in a conveying path,

• determining a visual indicator output associated with at least one of:

• a first product of the plurality of products, or

• a first holder of a plurality of holders of the conveyor system, said first holder being configured to hold a first product of the plurality of products,

• generating a moving visual output based on the visual indicator output, wherein the moving visual output:

• moves along with the first product when the first product is transported in the conveying path, for at least a part of said conveying path; or

• moves along with the first holder when the first holder is transported in the conveying path, for at least a part of said conveying path.

Thus, the method relates to a moving visual output. In embodiments, the moving visual output can move along with a first foodstuff product. The first foodstuff product is transported with a conveyor system, e.g. on a conveying belt or in a holder. In embodiments wherein the conveyor system comprises a plurality of holders, the moving visual output can move along with a first holder. By providing the moving visual output, an operator can be informed about an action to be performed, while the conveyor system can keep moving the foodstuff products and/or holders.

In embodiments, the moving visual output is generated with a plurality of visual indicators that are stationary, by sequentially generating the visual indicator output with a subset of the plurality of visual indicators, said subset corresponding to a location of the first product or the first holder. In embodiments, the method further comprises on identification step, wherein the first product and/or the first holder is identified, wherein further the visual indicator output is based on the identified first product and/or holder.

In embodiments, the method further comprises a product assessment step for assessing at least one property of the product, wherein further the visual indicator output is determined based on the assessed property. Optionally the product assessment step is performed by an automated product assessment system, wherein at least one sensor is used for assessing the at least one property of the product. Optionally, the product assessment step is performed by receiving an operator input.

In embodiments, the method further comprises a product loading step at a loading station, wherein a plurality of operators can arrange products into holders, the visual indicator output is determined based on which operator will load the first holder.

In embodiments, the method further comprises a processing step wherein an operation is performed on the product in a carrousel station with a processing unit, wherein the visual indicator output is determined based on the processing unit that is associated with the first product and/or the first holder.

In embodiments, the method further comprises an unloading step at an unloading station, wherein an operator can unload a product from the conveyor system, wherein the visual indicator output is determined based on whether the operator should unload the first product from the conveyor system.

In embodiments, the method further comprises a holder performance status determination step, wherein the visual indicator output is determined based on the determined holder performance status.

The invention further relates to non-transitory computer-readable instructions configured to, when executed, cause a control unit of a system for processing a product to perform the method according to any of the embodiments described herein. Said feeding system may e.g. be according to any of the embodiments described herein.

Exemplary embodiments of the invention are described using the figures. It is to be understood that these figures merely serve as example of how the invention can be implemented, and are in no way intended to be construed as limiting forthe scope of the invention and the claims. Like features are indicated by like reference numerals along the figures. In the figures:

Fig 1 : schematically illustrates a system having a visual indicator system, wherein the product is a poultry product;

Figs. 2a-2d: schematically illustrate a moving visual output;

Fig. 3a: schematically illustrates a loading station having a visual indicator system;

Fig. 3b: schematically illustrates an unloading station having a visual indicator system; Fig. 4a: schematically illustrates an automated product assessment system;

Fig. 4b: schematically illustrates an operator assessment input module;

Fig. 5: schematically illustrates a system having a visual indicator system, wherein the product is a pig leg product;

Fig. 6a: schematically illustrates a system wherein the product is a poultry product being transported on a conveying belt;

Fig. 6b: schematically illustrates a system wherein the product is a pig leg product being transported on a conveying belt.

Fig. 1 shows schematically illustrates a system 100 for processing a product 2. In this example, the product 2 is a poultry carcass part 2. The poultry carcass part 2 can e.g. be a slaughtered poultry, a poultry that is to be slaughtered, or back half.

The poultry carcass 2 is arranged in a first holder 20 having two slots 21 for receiving the legs 2.1 of the poultry carcass 2. The first holder 20 is part of conveyor system 10, in this case an overhead conveyor system 10. The conveyor system 10 is configured to transport the poultry carcass 2 in a transport direction 14 along a conveying path. The conveyor system 10 comprises a track 12 over which a trolley 13 can move. The trolley 13 is connected to the first holder 20, which is further connected to a chain 1 1 . It will be understood that although fig. 1 only shows a single holder 20, a single poultry carcass part 2, and a partial chain 1 1 , in practice a plurality of holders 20 with poultry carcass parts 2 can be interconnected via the chain 1 1 . The chain 1 1 is moved, e.g. by means of a sprocket wheel (not shown) for moving the holders 2. The direction of movement is guided by the track 12 via the trolley 13.

The first holder 20 comprises an identificator22, which in this case is an RFID-tag 22. The RFID-tag 22 is schematically illustrated in fig. 1 , but it will be understood that in practice the RFID-tag 22 may be arranged inside the first holder 20 and not be visible from the exterior. An identification module 30 is configured to identify to first holder 20. In this example, the identification module 30 is or comprises an RFID-reader for identifying the RFID-tag 22 of the first holder 20.

Based on the identification of the RFID-tag 22, the identification module 30 is configured to generate a holder identification signal 30a. The holder identification signal 30a is sent to a control unit 40, via an output terminal 30.1 and an input terminal 40.1. The communication between the identification module 30 and the control unit 40 can be wired or wireless according to any suitable known communication method or protocol. For example, the communication can be based on Bluetooth or using a Wi-Fi network.

The control unit 40 is configured to determine a visual indicator output associated with the first holder 20. It is noted that it can be possible that the identification as first holder 20 is done in the identification module 30, wherein the holder identification signal 30a comprises this information; but it is also possible that the identification of first holder 20 is done in the control unit 40, wherein the holder identification signal 30a comprises information based on the RFID-tag 22 in the first holder 20. The visual indicator output associated with the first holder 20 can be based on several considerations, as is explained further herein. Fig. 1 illustrates that the control unit 40 can e.g. comprise a memory 41 and a processing unit 42. The memory 40 can be configured to store data, e.g. relating to control parameters of the conveyor system 10 or previously determined visual indicator outputs or previously received holder identifications signals 30a. The memory 40 can be configured to store computer-readable instructions. The processing unit 42 can be configured to process data stored and/or received by the control unit 40, e.g. based on the computer-readable instructions.

The system 100 further comprises a visual indicator system 50. The visual indicator system 50 comprises a plurality of visual indicators 51 configured to generate a visual output. In this example, the visual indicator system 50 comprises a LED-strip, wherein the visual indicators 51 are lights 51 , in particular LEDs. In the shown example, the visual indicators 51 are physically arranged in series to each other, said series being physically arranged in parallel to the conveyor system 10 for a part of the conveying path.

The visual indicator system 50 is configured to control the visual indicators 51 based on the visual indicator output associated with the first holder 20, as determined by the control unit 40. To this end, the control unit 40 generates a visual indicator control signal 40a that is communicated to the visual indicator system 50 via output terminal 40.2 and input terminal 50.1. The communication between the visual indicator system 50 and the control unit 40 can be wired or wireless according to any suitable known communication method or protocol. For example, the communication can be based on Bluetooth or using a Wi-Fi network.

The visual indicator system 50 is configured to generate a moving visual output. The moving visual output is associated with the first holder 20. The moving visual output moves along with the first holder 20 as said first holder moves in the conveying path for a part of the conveying path. Said part is determined by the length of the visual indicator system 50.

In the shown example, the visual indicators 51 are stationary lights. They do not move. To generate a moving visual output, the visual indicators 51 are controlled to sequentially generate the visual output. Depending on the position of the first holder 20, it can be determined which of the visual indicators 51 should generate the visual output.

This principle is illustrated in fig. 2a-2d. These figures show that the first holder 20a is part of plurality of holders, and the poultry carcass part 2a held by the first holder 20a is part of a plurality of poultry carcass parts. The first holder 20a is moved in the transport direction 14, from what in fig. 2a is the right-hand side towards the left-hand side. Based on the position of the first holder 20a, it is determined which of the visual indicators 51 generates the visual output such that it is clear to e.g. an operator that said visual output is associated with the first holder 20a.

Thus, in fig. 2a the first holder 20a is on the right-hand side and a first 51 a and second visual indictor 51 b generate the visual output. By way of illustration, the visual output is indicated as being black, but in practice it may be a light output, e.g. according to a predetermined color scheme. For example, said light output may be white, red, green, or blue, wherein an operator is aware of a meaning of each color. In fig. 2b, the first holder 20a has been moved a bit in the transport direction 14, such that it now the second holder shown from the right-hand side. Accordingly, it is now a fourth 51 d and a fifth visual indicator 51 e that generates the visual output. In fig. 2c, the first holder 20a has been moved again in the transport direction 14, such that it now the second holder shown from the left-hand side. Accordingly, it is now a seventh 51 g and an eight visual indicator 51 h that generates the visual output. In fig. 2d, the first holder 20a has been moved even further in the transport direction 14, such that it now the holder shown on the left-hand side. Accordingly, it is now a tenth 51 j and an eleventh visual indicator 51 k that generates the visual output.

Figs. 2a-2d thus illustrate that as the first holder 20a is moved in the transport direction 14, different visual indicators 51 a-51 k generate a visual output. As such, a moving visual output is generated. The moving visual output moves along with the first holder 20a. This allows an operator to easily identify the first holder 20a. By interpreting the visual output, the operator can be instructed to perform a certain action.

Fig. 1 further illustrates that the control unit 40 comprises an input terminal 40.3 for receiving a conveyor system signal 15a from an output terminal 15.1 of a conveyor system control unit 15. The communication between the control unit 40 and the conveyor system control unit 60 can be wired or wireless according to any of the known communication methods such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. The conveyor system control unit 15 is configured to control the conveyor system 10, e.g. to control the speed at which the first holder 20 is moved. This information can be included in the conveyor system signal 15a. This allows the control unit 40 to determine the position of the first holder 20, as it is known at which position the first holder 20 is when the identificator 22 is detected by the identification module 30, and the first holder 20 moves at a constant speed. In other embodiments, it is can e.g. be possible that the speed of the first holder 20 is determined from a time period that the identification module 30 detects the identificator 22, or from the rate at which a detection if the identificator 22 by the identification module strengthens or weakens.

Since the control unit 40 is able to determine the position of the first holder 20, it is also possible to determine which of the visual indicators 51 should generate the visual output such that an operator can associate that visual output with the first holder 20.

Fig. 3a illustrates an application of a visual indicator system 150 being used at a product loading station 101. At the product loading station 101 , multiple operators I l l a, 1 1 1 b are provided to arranged products 102 in holders 120. In fig. 3a a first operator I l l a and a second operator 1 1 1 b are illustrated, but in practice more operators can be working at a single product loading station 101 .

In the shown example, the products 102 are poultry carcasses 102. However, the same principles can be applied in stations for loading other types of products, e.g. poultry carcass parts such as fronts halves or back halves, carcass parts of other animals such as red meat or fish, or processed foodstuff parts.

In the shown example, a conveyor belt 160 provides a plurality of poultry carcasses 102 to the product loading station 101. In other embodiments, it is possible that the operators I l l a, 1 1 1 b collect the products in another way, e.g. from a box arranged in their vicinity. A conveyor system is further configured to provide a plurality of holders 120. The operators I l l a, 1 1 1 b have the job of arranging the legs of the poultry carcass 102 in slots of the holder 120. The holders 120 are then moved upwards by the conveyor system to lift the poultry carcass 102 by its legs from the conveyor belt 160 and move the poultry carcass in along a conveying path in a transport direction 1 14.

In the shown situation, the first operator I l l a is arranging the legs of a first poultry carcass 102a in a first holder 120a, while the second operator 1 1 1 b is arranging the legs of a second poultry carcass 102b in a second holder 120b. Before the first holder 120a had reached the first operator I l l a, said first holder 120a passed the second operator 1 1 1 b. It will be understood that the second operator 1 1 1 b should let this first holder 120a pass instead of arranging a poultry carcass 102 in it. In conventional systems, this requires the second operator 1 1 1 b to pay attention, and it may happen that he makes a mistake.

To avoid this, the visual indicator system 150 is used. A control unit 140 receives at an input terminal 140.1 a holder identification signal 130a from an identification module (not shown). Based on the holder identification signal 130, the control unit 140 can identify the first holder 120a and the second holder 120b, and determine which operator I l l a, 1 1 1 b should arrange a poultry carcass 102 in the respective holder 120a, 120b.

Each operator I l l a, 1 1 1 b is assigned a predetermined visual output. As illustrated in fig. 3a by way of example, the visual output for the first operator 1 1 1 a is black, as shown by seventh and eight visual indicators 151 h, 151 g. The visual output for the second operator 1 1 1 b is hatched, as shown by first and second visual indicators 151 a, 151 b. It will be understood that in practice, each operator I l l a, 1 1 1 b can e.g. be assigned a different colour of light.

The control unit 140 controls the visual indicator system 150 with a visual indicator control signal 140a that is communicated to the visual indicator system 150 via output terminal 140.2 and input terminal 150.1. Based on the visual indicator control signal 140a, a moving visual output is generated associated with the first holder 120a. The moving visual output moves along with the first holder 120a, at least until it reaches the first operator I l l a. Thus, although not visible in the shown situation, earlier the first holder 120a passed the second operator 1 1 1 b, and at that moment first 150a and second visual indicator 150b in front of the second operator 1 1 1 b were in the visual output assigned to the first operator I l l a, i.e. black. Based on this, the second operator 1 1 1 b could easily see that the first holder 120a was not intended for him to arrange a poultry carcass 102 in, and he let the first holder 120a pass.

It will be understood that in practice, not every holder 120 needs to be identified by the control unit 140. If the speed at which the holders 120 are moved by the conveyor system and the spacing between subsequent holders 120 is known, the control unit 140 is able to determine the correct visual indicator output.

Fig. 3b illustrates an application of a visual indicator system 550 being used at a product unloading station 501. In this example, the products are poultry carcass products, of which fig. 3b illustrates a first poultry carcass product 544a, a second poultry carcass product 544b, a third poultry carcass product 544c, and a second poultry carcass product 544d. The poultry carcass products 544a-d are transported by holders 542, in this case shackles, of a conveyor system 510. At the product unloading station 501 , an operator 546 is configured to unload at least some of the products 544a-544d from the conveyor system 510.

A control unit 540 controls the visual indicator system 550 to generate a moving visual output, by means of a visual indicator control signal 540a that is communicated via output terminal 540.2 and input terminal 550.1 . The control unit 540 receives at an input terminal 540.1 a holder identification signal 530a from an identification module (not shown). At input terminal 540.3, the control unit 540 receives a conveyor system signal 515a from a conveyor control unit (not shown). In addition, the control unit 540 receives at in input terminal 540.4 a product assessment signal 545a, e.g. from an operator assessment input module (not shown) or an automated assessment system (not shown).

In this case, the product assessment signal 545a contains information about whether the poultry carcass products 544a-544d are hung correctly in the holders 542, which was assessed with said operator assessment input module or automated assessment system. From the product assessment signal 545a, the control unit 540 can determine that the first poultry carcass product 544a is hung incorrectly. This can be seen in fig. 3b, where the first poultry carcass product 544a is hung by the neck instead of by the legs. At the shown moment, the first poultry carcass product 544a is arranged at a first and second visual indicator 51 1 a, 51 1 b. Accordingly, the control unit 540 controls the visual indicator system 550 to generate a moving visual output, which in the shown situation corresponds with the first and second visual indicator 51 l a, 51 1 b emitting light. The operator 546 sees said light and knows he has to perform an action, in this case unloading the first poultry carcass product 544a.

Fig. 3b further illustrates that different types of poultry carcass products are transported by the conveying system 510. Whereas the first and third poultry carcass product 544a, 544c are whole poultry carcasses, the second and fourth poultry carcass products 544b, 544d are back halves. This can e.g. be the case when smallbatch products are being processed, such that the system is used for processing different products at the same time to increase the efficiency. In such cases, the visual indicator system 550 can also be used to indicate to an operator 546 in an unloading station 501 which products needs to be unloaded. For example, if only the back halves would have to be unloaded, a first moving visual output could be which moved along with the second poultry carcass product 544b, and a second first moving visual output could be generated which moved along with the fourth poultry carcass product 544d.

Fig. 4a schematically illustrates an automated product assessment system 203. A conveyor system 202 guides a plurality of holders 206, in this case shackles, via a curved track 205. The holders 206 transport poultry carcasses 201. The automated product assessment system 203 comprises a sensor 204, which in this case is a camera 204. The camera 204 scans the poultry carcasses 201 , for assessing at least one property. Said property can e.g. be the size. Other types of sensors can be used as well. For example, X-rays can be used for determining fat or blood values of the poultry carcasses.

Based on the assessment of the property, in this case size, a product assessment signal 204a is generated. In the shown example, the product assessment signal 204a is communicated to a main control unit 207 via output terminal 204.1 and input terminal 207.1. The main control unit 207 may be configured to control various components of the system and/or processing line. The main control unit 207 may be or comprise the control unit that is configured to control a visual indicator system (not shown) downstream of the product assessment system 203, or the main control unit 207 may further communicate the product assessment signal 204a to a control unit that is configured to control a visual indicator system. The visual indicator system may then be controlled based on the product assessment signal 204a, e.g. to indicate to an operator that a poultry carcass should be unloaded when it is too large or too small.

Fig. 4b schematically illustrates an operator assessment input system 210. A conveyor system 21 1 moves poultry carcasses by means of holders 218, in this case shackles. An operator 212 visually inspects the poultry carcasses 213, e.g. to inspect whether any of poultry carcasses 213 show signs of diseases that the poultry had. In case the operator212 decides a poultry carcass 213 shows such signs, he can provide an assessment input on an operator assessment input module 215. Said operator assessment input module 215 is a push button in the shown example only allowing to provide a binary input, but other embodiments are possible, e.g. wherein the operator 212 can provide multiple assessment inputs on a computer or touch screen. The operator assessment input module generates a product assessment signal 215a which is provided to an assessment system control unit 217.

The operator assessment input system 210 further comprises an assessment identification module 214. At least when the operator 212 uses the operator assessment input module 215, the assessment identification module 214 is configured to identify the holder 218 or poultry carcass 213 associated with the product assessment signal 215a. In this example, the assessment identification module 214 is a scannerwhich can scan a barcode (not illustrated) on the holder218. The assessment identification module 214 generates an assessment identification signal 214a, which is provided to the assessment system control unit 217.

The assessment system control unit 217 is configured to generate a combined assessment signal 217a and output this via output terminal 217.1 to a control unit for controlling a visual indicator system (not shown). The combined assessment signal 217a comprises the product assessment signal 215a and the assessment identification signal 214a, or is at least based thereon. This allows to determine further downstream which poultry carcass 213 showed the signs of disease. The visual indicator system can then be controlled accordingly to convey this information to an operator, who can e.g. unload the poultry carcass 213 from the conveyor system 21 1 .

Although in figs. 1 -4b the products were poultry products, the invention is not limited thereto. For example, fig. 5 illustrates a system for processing a pig leg product 1. However, other products are also possible, e.g. fish products or non-foodstuff products. Fig. 5 shows a cutting station 701 of a system for processing pig leg products 1 . The processing of pig products in general still includes many manual processing steps, as is illustrated by operators 701 a, 701 b, 701 c in fig. 5 who are performing an action of pig legs 1. The pig legs 1 are transported by a conveyor system 773 which comprises holders 750 for holding each one pig leg 1 . The holders 750 are connected to trolleys 772 which are moved by means of chain 774. To reduce the load of the operators 701 a, 701 b, 701 c, optionally guiding bars 790 are provided to partially lift the pig legs 1 in the direction of the operators 701 a, 701 b, 701 c.

The system shown in fig. 5 further comprises a visual indicator system 760 comprising a plurality of visual indicators 731 . A control unit 740 is configured to control the visual indicator system 760. The control unit 740 outputs a visual indicator control signal 740a via output terminal 740.1 to input terminal 760.1. Based on the visual indicator control signal 740a, the visual indicator system generates a moving visual output. Each moving visual output moves along with one of holders 750 and the pig leg product 1 arranged therein, to indicate which operator 701 a, 701 b, 701 c, should process said pig leg product 1 .

In the situation shown in fig. 5, a first moving visual output corresponds with a first visual indicator 761 a radiating a red light. Based on this red light, a first operator 701 a knows that he should process the pig leg product 1 moving along with said red light. Similarly, a second moving visual output corresponds to a second visual indicator 761 b radiation a blue light, based on which a second operator 701 b knows which poultry leg product 1 to process. Similarly, a third moving visual output corresponds to a third visual indicator 761 b radiation a green light, based on which a third operator 701 c knows which poultry leg product 1 to process.

In the situation shown in fig. 5 the moving visual outputs and associated pig leg part products 1 and holders 750 have already arrived at the respective operator 701 a, 701 b, 701 c, at which point the visual outputs, pig leg part products, and holders 750 will remain stationary for a while to allow the operators 701 a, 701 b, 701 c, to perform the required actions.

Although in the previous figures the products were transported by holders, this is not required, as illustrated in figs 6a and 6b.

Fig. 6a shows a system 600 for processing a product 602, wherein the product 602 is a fillet 602 of a chicken breast. A plurality of fillets 602 are transported by a conveying belt 610 of a conveying system. The system 600 comprises an automated product assessment system 660 which emits X-rays onto passing fillets 602, and a sensor to capture said X-rays. Based on the X-rays, various properties can be assessed, for example blood-values or fat-values can be determined, or it can be assessed whether bone splinters are present in the fillet 602.

The system 600 further comprises a control unit 640 which is configured to receive a product assessment signal 660a from the automated product assessment system 660 via output terminal 660.1 and input terminal 640.1. The control unit 640 further receives a conveyor system signal 615a from a conveyor system control unit 615 at input terminal 640.3. The conveyor system signal 615a includes in this case at least information about the speed at which the conveyor belt 610 is moved. The system 600 further comprises a visual indicator system 650, comprising a plurality of visual indicators 651 . The control unit 640 is configured to control the visual indicator system 650 by means of a visual indicator control signal 640 via output terminal 640.2 and input terminal 650.1 .

When the product assessment signal 660a indicates that a first fillet 602a does not fulfil a certain requirement, e.g. regarding blood, fat, or bone splinters, the control unit 640 is configured to determines a visual indicator output associated with said first fillet 602a. Since the control unit 640 knows the speed of the conveyor belt 610 from the conveyor system signal 615a, the control unit 640 can determine the position of the first fillet 602a. The control unit 640 controls the visual indicator system 650 to generate a moving visual output that moves along with the first fillet 602a. In the shown situation, this results in a fourth visual indicator 651 d and a fifth visual indicator 651 e radiating light, but it will be understood that depending on the location of the first fillet 602a a different subset of the visual indicators will emit light. The moving visual output indicates to an operator (not shown) that the first fillet 602a did not pass the assessment. The operator can unload the first fillet 602a from the conveying system to ensure it will not be further processed or even packed and sold.

Fig. 6b shows a system 1200 for processing a product 1202, wherein the product 1202 is a pig leg 1201. A plurality of pig legs 1201 are transported by a conveying system. The conveying system comprises a first conveying belt 1238, a second conveying belt 1239, and a third conveying belt 1240. The system 1200 comprises an automated product assessment system 1260 which weights a pig leg 1201 a passing on the second conveying belt 1239. The automated product assessment system 1260 includes a screen which shows the measurement to an operator, for information purposes.

The system 1200 further comprises a control unit 1240 which is configured to receive a product assessment signal 1260a from the automated product assessment system 1260 via output terminal 1260.1 and input terminal 1240.1 . The control unit 1240 further receives a conveyor system signal 1215a from a conveyor system control unit 1215 at input terminal 1240.3. The conveyor system signal 1215a includes in this case at least information about the speed at which the conveyor belts 1238, 1239, 1240 are moved.

The system 1200 further comprises a visual indicator system 1250, comprising a plurality of visual indicators 1251. The control unit 1240 is configured to control the visual indicator system 1250 by means of a visual indicator control signal 1240 via output terminal 1240.2 and input terminal 1250.1 .

When the product assessment signal 12120a indicates that a first pig leg 1201 b does not fulfil a certain requirement, e.g. being too heavy or too light, the control unit 1240 is configured to determines a visual indicator output associated with said first fillet 1201 b. Since the control unit 1240 knows the speed of the conveyor belts 1239, 1240 from the conveyor system signal 1215a, the control unit 1240 can determine the position of the first pig leg 1201 b. The control unit 1240 controls the visual indicator system 1250 to generate a moving visual output that moves along with the first pig leg 1201 b. In the shown situation, this results in a first, second, and third visual indicator 1251 a, 1251 b, 1251 c radiating light, but it will be understood that depending on the location of the first pig leg 1201 b a different subset of the visual indicators will emit light. The moving visual output indicates to an operator (not shown) that the first pig leg 1201 b did not pass the assessment. The operator can unload the first pig leg 1201 b from the conveying system to ensure it will not be further processed or even packed and sold.

As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention are described herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of the invention, which may be embodied in various ways. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be construed as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art to practice the present invention in various ways in virtually any suitable detailed structure. Not all of the objectives described need be achieved with particular embodiments.

Furthermore, the terms and expressions used herein are not intended to limit the invention, but to provide an understandable description of the invention. The words “a”, “an”, or "one" used herein mean one or more than one, unless otherwise indicated. The terms "a multiple of", “a plurality” or "several" mean two or more than two. The words "comprise", "include", “contain” and "have" have an open meaning and do not exclude the presence of additional elements. Reference numerals in the claims should not be construed as limiting the invention.

The mere fact that certain technical features are described in different dependent claims still allows the possibility that a combination of these technical measures can be used advantageously.

A single processor or other unit can perform the functions of various components mentioned in the description and claims, e.g. of processing units or control units, or the functionality of a single processing unit or control unit described herein can in practice be distributed over multiple components, optionally physically separated of each other. Any communication between components can be wired or wireless by known methods.

The actions performed by the control unit can be implemented as a program, for example computer program, software application, or the like. The program can be executed using computer readable instructions. The program may include a subroutine, a function, a procedure, an object method, an object implementation, an executable application, a source code, an object code, a shared library / dynamic load library and / or other set of instructions designed for execution on a computer system.

A computer program or computer-readable instructions can be stored and / or distributed on a suitable medium, such as an optical storage medium or a solid- state medium supplied with or as part of other hardware, but can also be distributed in other forms, such as via internet or other wired or wireless telecommunication systems.