Abstract: A method and apparatus for processing flat fish is disclosed. The fish (5) are placed on a conveyor (1) and transported on a conveying surface (1.1) over an array of photosensing elements (3.4) which generate light absorbtion signals as the fish is advanced. These signals are sent to a computer, which determines the contour of the fish using information regarding the conveyor speed and computes cutting control signals using pre-programmed proportionality factors relating to the fish species. The cutting line control signals are sent to a cutting apparatus (4). As the advanced fish arrives at the cutting apparatus, two rotary knives (4.1) cut into the dorsal and ventral sides of the fish in response to the control signals to remove the dorsal fin together with a strip of fatty tissue (5.12) from one edge of the fish and the internal organs, the anal fin and the ventral strip of fatty tissue (5.11) from the other edge of the fish.

Abstract: An installation for processing flatfish, in particular for severing the head, and, if necessary, the tail thereof, comprises a feeding device (1), means for aligning the fish and means for conveying the same in rest position on one of their sides through the operative area of processing tools. The installation can be characterized in that the conveying means (13) is provided with entrainers (14) which engage the fish at its flank remote of that lying on the support surface (16), and are controlled to turn about an axis which is perpendicular to said support surface (16). Each fish is taken over by the entrainer (14) with attention being paid to a detected measured value with respect to its size such that the point of engagement of the entrainer is uniform independent of the size.