Abstract: A transducer positioning apparatus is disclosed which includes telescoping frame sections, together with pivotally adjustable gimbal supports for accurately mounting a plurality of transducers upon the skin side of a suspended animal carcass, respectively, whereby fat thickness, lean depth and external carcass length are measured by the transducers in conjunction with conventional ultrasonic imaging equipment.

Abstract: A method of extending the hind legs of a slain animal for the purpose of mechanical shackling comprising the steps of applying an electric voltage to the bare skin near the anus of the animal and using the bare skin between the hind legs as ground. Involuntary motion is also suppressed thereby.

Abstract: A set of two parallel rails is used to hold animals being slaughtered. The animal's four legs straddle the two rails and the body rests on the rails. A back retraining device is provided to hold the rump and back securely on the rails. A device is also provided for restraining and stretching the neck upward so that ritual slaughter can be performed.

Abstract: A conveyor system for slaughtering animals comprising a pair of parallel rails disposed to be higher than the leg length of the animal to be slaughtered and located between parallel stationary side walls used to prevent the animal from rolling sideways. On each of the rails flexible conveyor belts are provided. In operation, the animal is placed upright on the pair of rails with its legs straddling the rails. The belts move the animal in the upright position to a slaughtering station.

Abstract: A frame used to hold down and restrain an animal positioned upright with its legs straddling a conveyor and to stretch its neck for ritual slaughter. The frame comprises a body part having two outer parallel bars and two inner parallel bars interconnected at their ends by semi-circular shaped cross bars such that the body part would suitably fit over the back of an animal to be slaughtered. The body part has outwardly disposed to the side, pivots to engage slots in side walls for holding the frame and the animal unto the rail during the travel down the conveyor. Connected to the body part at a suitable angle is a neck portion having a pair of bars extending upward from the body part and at an angle and a pair of resilient strips between which the neck of the animal may be placed and held and at the end of the bar a circularly shaped jaw holder arranged to hold the animal's neck stretched and stable.