Abstract: A target for providing coded data readable by an imaging apparatus. Location marking means enable location of the target by the imaging apparatus preparatory to an imaging operation, the location marking means having high visibility characteristics e.g. being of retroreflective material to enable identification of the location marking means against a background. Code marking regions of annular shape include circumferentially disposed code markings containing coded data which are imaged by the imaging apparatus to enable recovery of the coded data from the target. The location marking means is located generally centrally of the code marking regions so that identification of the location marking means also locates the center of the code marking regions. The location marking means includes at least one concentric annular region to enable fine location of the center. The code marking regions are rotationally dispersed relative to the center.

Abstract: An apparatus for automatically processing an animal carcass (8). Suspension means (122, 123) suspends the carcass (8) in an inverted position with the spine inclined upwardly towards the neck (11) with the spine located beneath the carcass (8) and so that the diaphragm (119) is approximately vertical. A cutting assembly (130) moves into the abdominal cavity adjacent to the diaphragm (119), and a cutting means (28) cuts the diaphragm (119) around the periphery. A brisket shearing means (21) cuts the brisket (20) with a shearing action along the brisket (20) from the abdomen and towards the neck end of the brisket (20). The reaction member (188) is pivotally movable relative to the brisket (20) about a rear end to generally follow the contours of the brisket (20).