Carcass Or Portion Suspended (i.e., Hanger) Patents (Class 452/187)
  • Patent number: 7201552
    Abstract: A vehicle game lift adapted for releasable attachment to a trailer hitch mounted on a rear of a vehicle. The game lift is used for suspending a killed animal above a ground surface. The lift includes an inverted “L” shaped post having a vertical post member and a horizontal hoist arm. The hoist arm is attached to a upper portion of the vertical post member. One end of a trailer hitch tongue is adapted for attachment to a trailer hitch. An opposite end of the trailer hitch tongue is attached to a tongue collar. The tongue collar is received around a lower portion of the vertical post member. One end of a moveable horizontal suspension arm is attached to a sliding collar. The sliding collar is received around a portion of the vertical post member. An opposite end of the suspension arm is attached to a balance beam having a plurality of hooks thereon. The hooks are adapted for releasable attachment to the killed animal. A chain hoist is attached to the horizontal suspension arm and the horizontal hoist arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2007
    Inventors: Tony Angel, Roger Jensen
  • Patent number: 7186175
    Abstract: A hanging element that may include an extended body with a lower insertion body and an upper closure head forming a matrix of hanging elements joined to each other via the side projections. Each insertion body extends into a wire which ends as a Y joint where the respective single wires split to form a closed loop which joined together in the closure head and into which the hook or similar product may be hung to hang of a piece of meat or other object which remains suspended from the insertion body. The closure head may have on its upper end a ringbolt or attachment and includes an identification tag through the joint. The hanging element allows automated insertion using an appropriate tool and at the same time guarantees maximum hygiene because it is disposable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Inventor: Jose Mazo Hernandez
  • Patent number: 7052057
    Abstract: A device for hooking, dragging, or gaffing a game or marine animal. The device comprises a substantially triangular hook member having an opening and a sharp end for hooking the animal. When dragging the animal, the device distributes the weight to ground requiring little or no lifting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Inventor: Andrew M. Hiles
  • Patent number: 6994618
    Abstract: The present invention discloses portable game gallows for hoisting and skinning multiple game. The portable game gallows includes a winch having a strap or cable that can be used to raise game into position for hanging on a rotating tree and for skinning game that is hung from the tree. The present invention discloses a dual purpose pulley that can be locked into a first position for hoisting a game or a second position for skinning a game.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2006
    Inventor: Jack Allen Syers
  • Patent number: 6986707
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a device for processing a carcass part of slaughtered poultry, which carcass part comprises at least part of a rib cage, meat which is naturally present on said rib cage, a neck opening, and a wing joint, the carcass part having an interior which method comprises the following steps: applying and fixing the carcass part to a product carrier, which product carrier is moveable and which product carrier engages the interior of the carcass part, moving a wing-joint positioning member via said neck opening into the interior of the carcass part, the wing-joint positioning member being provided with one or more wing-joint positioning surfaces, which are arranged in such a manner that, in a defined position of the first wishbone blade with respect to the carcass part, the wing-joint positioning surfaces hold said wing joint into a predetermined position, exerting an internal pressure on the carcass part, in such a manner that said one wing joint is supported in the predetermi
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Stork PMT B.V.
    Inventors: Adrianus Josephes Van Den Nieuwelaar, Petrus Christianus Marius Janssen, Gerardus Johannes Catharina van Bussel
  • Patent number: 6811480
    Abstract: A shackle assembly for transporting a poultry carcass suspended by its legs along a processing path and over a weighing scale for weighing the carcass. The shackle assembly includes a trolley support, a trolley mounted to the trolley support for engaging the weighing scale, and a bird carrier for suspending a poultry carcass by its legs. A telescopic connector system joins the trolley support to the bird carrier and suspends the bird carrier from the trolley support. A cam-actuated turning system is mounted to the trolley support and operatively connected to the bird carrier for rotating the trolley support and the bird carrier in unison.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Assignee: Dapec, Inc.
    Inventor: Larry Moriarty
  • Patent number: 6739964
    Abstract: A portable V-shaped tree- or pole-mounted deer hoist is made up of a boom having a front bracket, a rear retaining bar and a separate bracket-mounted winch. The winch bracket is strapped onto the tree or pole at a location on the tree or pole below the hoist bracket. A rope connected at one end to the winch is connected at the other end to a gambrel and is used to raise or lower an animal carcass using a pulley that is attached to the front tip of the V-shaped front boom bracket. The deer hoist, winch bracket and gambrel can be easily assembled for portability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2004
    Inventor: Terry Gearhart
  • Publication number: 20040048565
    Abstract: A game hoist and carrier comprises a rack having expandable sides for transporting game from a hunting site. A hoist mast is mounted to the rack, and a vertical support shaft is attached to the rack for stabilizing the game hoist and carrier above a surface during the lifting of an animal carcass.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventor: Paul A. Homer
  • Patent number: 6695688
    Abstract: The invention is a portable game hoist (12) designed for suspending large animals such as deer, hogs, and the like from a tree, pole, or post for immediate processing in the field. The game hoist consists of a vertical support member (16) connected at an obtuse angle to a horizontal lifting arm (14) via a main bracket (18c), a hand winch (24a) for lifting the animal, and a means of attaching the hoist to a tree. The hoist is lightweight, yet sturdy and simple to use. The game hoist can be easily folded for transportation or storage by removing a removable bolt or ball pin (30). Tightening up on the hand winch secures the game hoist in the folded position. In the folded position, the game hoist can be transported under the seat of a truck, on the rack of a four-wheeler, or in the bottom of a boat. The hoist can also be carried by hand or across the shoulder using a chain (20). A companion to assist in the use of the game hoist is not necessary, as it is light in weight and simple to use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Inventors: James Edward Owen, Alva Eugene Owen
  • Patent number: 6682412
    Abstract: An apparatus for spreading open a rib cage of an animal carcass, and for holding, supporting, and maneuvering the carcass while holding open the rib cage of the carcass, is provided. A first support member is coupled to a first actuator for up and down movement along a first axis. A second support member is pivotally coupled to the first support member so that the second support member can be pivoted about a second axis by a second actuator. A third actuator is attached to and supported by the second support member. A scissors linkage is coupled to the third actuator at a first end of the scissors linkage, coupled to the second support member at central portion of the scissors linkage, and coupled to the spreading plates at a second end of the scissors linkage. The actuators may be pneumatically, hydraulically and/or electrically driven, for example.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Inventor: Gary S. Hendrix
  • Patent number: 6672953
    Abstract: A game skinner device having a winch and a roller deposed at opposite ends of a main support. The main support is adjustably secured to the hitch of a vehicle. The game skinner device does not support the weight of the game.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Inventors: Gary Lee Chappell, Katherine Marie Chappell
  • Patent number: 6672322
    Abstract: A screen assembly for storing wild game meat comprising: a mesh cylinder fabricated of mesh material and having an open upper end; and a top section fabricated of waterproof material and affixed over the upper end of the mesh cylinder, a locking clip having a cable extending therefrom and through the upper section, the cable being fixed relative to the upper section, the clip adapted to be coupled around a tree limb in an operative orientation, the cable having a lower end including a hook for hanging wild game meat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Inventor: Mark H. Littlefield
  • Publication number: 20030228838
    Abstract: A portable V-shaped tree- or pole-mounted deer hoist is made up of a boom having a front bracket, a rear retaining bar and a separate bracket-mounted winch. The winch bracket is strapped onto the tree or pole at a location on the tree or pole below the hoist bracket. A rope connected at one end to the winch is connected at the other end to a gambrel and is used to raise or lower an animal carcass using a pulley that is attached to the front tip of the V-shaped front boom bracket. The deer hoist, winch bracket and gambrel can be easily assembled for portability.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2003
    Publication date: December 11, 2003
    Inventor: Terry Gearhart
  • Publication number: 20030171088
    Abstract: Automated loaders are configured with winding mechanisms that load elongated products directly onto transfer members, such as sticks or rods, by causing the arm to follow a repetitive motion pattern proximate to the stick or rod to discharge the elongated product in a desired motion onto the stick or rod. Methods for discharging elongated product, such as encased meats, so that they straddle or loop directly onto the stick, bar or other desired food support are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2002
    Publication date: September 11, 2003
    Inventors: Sarid M. Shefet, John Michael Phillips, Frank Michael Horvath, Lawrence Alan Chandler, Richard Rodeheaver Hawkins
  • Patent number: 6609481
    Abstract: A game animal lift assembly for all terrain vehicles (ATVs) that is used to lift the carcass of a dead game animal from the ground up onto the carrying rack of an ATV. The game animal lift assembly includes a winch assembly having a flexible winch tether, a receiver hitch connecting assembly, a lifting mechanism horizontal support rod, two height adjustable vertical ground support bar assemblies, an adjustable length chassis support bar assembly, and a pivoting game animal lifting mechanism pivotally attached to the lifting mechanism horizontal support rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2003
    Inventor: Lane McCarty
  • Publication number: 20030153258
    Abstract: An apparatus for spreading open a rib cage of an animal carcass, and for holding, supporting, and maneuvering the carcass while holding open the rib cage of the carcass, is provided. A first support member is coupled to a first actuator for up and down movement along a first axis. A second support member is pivotally coupled to the first support member so that the second support member can be pivoted about a second axis by a second actuator. A third actuator is attached to and supported by the second support member. A scissors linkage is coupled to the third actuator at a first end of the scissors linkage, coupled to the second support member at central portion of the scissors linkage, and coupled to the spreading plates at a second end of the scissors linkage. The actuators may be pneumatically, hydraulically and/or electrically driven, for example.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: Gary S. Hendrix
  • Publication number: 20030036345
    Abstract: A sportsman's game meat hanger having an elongated shank portion having a top end and a bottom end. An eye portion is formed adjacent the top end for securing one end of a rope thereto. A hook portion is formed on the bottom end of the shank portion and it is inserted into a portion of a game animal that has been shot. A pair of tie-off rods are secured to the rear side of the shank portion. In use, the free end of the rope is thrown over the limb of a tree and the game animal is hoisted to a desired height. The rope is then cleated on the rope tie-off rods and then secured with a half-hitch or other comparable simple knot. With the rope cleated the knot remains free from tension, allowing the knot to be easily untied. If a game bag is used then the free end of the rope can be tied around the top of the bag; enclosing and protecting the meat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2001
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventor: Eddie Conner
  • Patent number: 6409588
    Abstract: A device for skinning and field dressing small game is described. The device includes a base plate having four or more openings therein and a retaining element or holder. A first set of two openings are holes to receive free ends of the holder. The second set of two openings are to receive and removably retain the hind legs of a squirrel or the like and are positioned in a lower portion of the base plate. These openings each form a slot having an elongated shape with an essentially semi-circular top portion and a tapered-wall lower portion. The holder has in one plane a wider open section with a narrowed extension. At the end of the wider open section, the free ends are preferably structured as two downward extending hook-shaped portions which, in use, insert into the first set of two openings in the base plate. In use, the base plate is affixed to a support, such as a tree, and the holder is maintained in an outwardly extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2002
    Inventors: James H. Womack, Paul K. Womack
  • Patent number: 6390912
    Abstract: The invention relates to a hanging loop for sausages or the like which is made of a meltable loop thread whose free ends are fused and tied together into a fisherman's knot. The invention also relates to an arrangement of these knotted hanging loops which are fastened on a carrier strip and in such a way that partial loops project from both sides of the carrier strip and such that the hanging loop knots are located in the proximity of the location where the hanging loops are fastened to the carrier strip. The invention also relates to a method for producing the hanging loop in which the loop thread is firstly arranged into a loop and ties into a knot. Afterwards, the loop thread projecting from the knot and outside the loop is cut away using a high temperature such that the loop thread ends produced thereby are attached by melting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Assignee: Poly-Clip System GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Frank Niedecker
  • Patent number: 6375560
    Abstract: Device for hanging conveyance of poultry, comprising a hanger, which is possibly provided with means for attachment to an overhead conveyor, in which the hanger is provided with at least one accommodation space for a leg of the poultry, which accommodation space is provided with an access opening for entrance and exit of leg, in which the hanger is provided with means for closing off the access opening, which closing means are moveable between a closed position which closes off the access opening and an open position releasing the access opening, and with means for locking the closing means in the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Assignee: Systemate Group B.V.
    Inventor: Bastiaan Verrijp
  • Patent number: 6334811
    Abstract: A processing line for stripping fresh meat quarters which comprises an endless conveying line, an electrical power source operatively associated with said conveying line, a plurality of carriages slidably mounted on said processing line and communicating with said electrical power source for independent movement on said processing line, and, meat quarter support means operatively associated with each of said carriages for vertical adjustment relative to the conveying lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2002
    Assignee: Inalca-Industria Alimentare-Carni-Societa' per Azioni
    Inventor: Luigi Cremonini
  • Patent number: 6244951
    Abstract: An apparatus (10) configures animal carcasses (C) for processing by leaf lard puller. The apparatus (10) includes a frame (20) with a carriage (40) operatively connected to the frame (10) for movement and in alignment with a conveyor suspending a hog carcass (C). A connecting member (60) has a first end operatively connected to the carriage (40) and a second end moveable between a first position and a second position. A pair of opposable arms (72, 73) are movable between an open position and a configuring position. The arms (72, 73) are positioned around the hog carcass in the open position and as the arms move to the configuring position, the hog carcass (C) is moved to the desired width for further processing by a leaf lard puller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2001
    Assignee: Hormel Foods, LLC
    Inventor: Lyndon R. Leining
  • Patent number: 6244425
    Abstract: A trolley unit for a conveyor system comprises first and second releasably engageable trolley half sections. First and second shafts extend from one of said trolley sections and through the other trolley section to provide a pivot axis for an end of upstream and downstream trolley connecting cables. A third shaft provides a support bar for a load attachment hanger. Upon releasable attachment of the trolley halves an integral trolley unit with central housing houses the pivot shafts with the cables extending therefrom. The integral trolley unit is easily dismantled allowing for easy maintenance. A turn sheave includes a cable seat and plurality of trolley seats which inhibit inward deflection of the seated cables and trolleys when the trolleys are moving about a corner of the conveyor system as defined by a change in a horizontal direction of the support rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2001
    Inventors: Todd A. Volker, C. Donald Comley
  • Patent number: 6202868
    Abstract: A vertical lift hoist and winch is taught which can be used, for example, for suspending wild game animals for the purpose of field dressing. The assembly is collapsible without any disassembly of major parts, to be able to fold up into a convenient carrying position, or to be capable of storage in a normal automobile truck, Jeep or station wagon compartment or a truck tool box. The winch lift assembly permits convenient storage and ease of set-up, where all pieces are held together as one. The pulley's are recessed in the upper boom which allows a tight closure in the collapsed position which is an advantage over other types of lifts. Nothing hangs down below the boom, thereby eliminating any cable tangles or interference when setting up or storing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Inventor: David N. Murray
  • Patent number: 6164466
    Abstract: A butcher's cart for meat after slaughter, comprising a pair of uprights (1) on wheels. The uprights are formed by tubes with a non-angular cross section, and are provided with hanging elements. A set of removable hanging modules (2) is provided, each module being formed by a V-shaped plate. Each plate is provided at its two ends with hanging elements complementary to those of the uprights. At least one of the longitudinal edges of each plate is provided with notches (10) of a size and shape suitable for receiving and suspending of meat to be transported.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Assignee: Aquitaine Fluide
    Inventor: Guy Baradat
  • Patent number: 6086469
    Abstract: A conveyor for moving the strand from a sausage making machine has J-hooks extending downwardly from a continuous chain conveyor. The conveyor picks up the loops of the strand at a loading station immediately adjacent the discharge end of the machine, and conveys the loops to a processing station for smoking or the like. The conveyor then moves the loops to an unloading station for removal of the strand from the conveyor, whereupon the conveyor downstream of the unloading station returns to the loading station to pick up additional product. A conveyor take-up mechanism is located immediately downstream from the loading station to permit the conveyor to cease movement at the loading station (while the casing on the machine is being replenished) while the conveyor can continue movement in the processing area. Sensors and controls interconnect the machine and the conveyor to coordinate the operational functions of each.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Assignee: DEC International, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel J. Cody, David Hamblin, Steven P. Hergott, Wendell J. Holl, David C. Nordby, Michael S. Simpson, Brent M. Veldkamp
  • Patent number: 6062974
    Abstract: A portable, foldable structure for the dressing of game animals in the field is provided. The present invention is a portable game support which has an upper arm with a game attachment means suspended at one end of the upper arm and a flange support attached at the terminus of the other end of the upper arm with means for attachment to a tree trunk or like vertical columnar member. The portable game animal support has a lower arm having means at one end for attachment to the tree or like vertical columnar member with the lower arm being coupled at the other end to the upper arm to provide additional strength to the portable game animal support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Inventor: Roger Dale Williams
  • Patent number: 6045442
    Abstract: A heavy-duty game hoist for suspending large game, such as deer, or other animals for processing in a stable, non-rotating manner. The preferred embodiment of the present invention contemplates a hoist configured to be affixed to a pole, tree, or the like, the hoist including a first vertical support member which engages the pole or tree, the first vertical support member engaging a frame which includes a laterally emanating horizontal support member having first and second ends, the first end engaging the first vertical support member, the second end distal from the first vertical support member, the second end of the horizontal support member supporting a second vertical support member. In the preferred embodiment, the second vertical support member has a square or other configured conduit formed longitudinally therethrough, and is configured to telescopically engage a vertical boom member which includes a gambrel for engaging and supporting the game.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2000
    Inventor: Richard W Bounds
  • Patent number: 6015339
    Abstract: A clamping device for attachment to a wall, post or other vertical support and securing a game carcass such as a squirrel, in position to facilitate efficient skinning and dressing of the carcass. In a preferred embodiment the clamping device is characterized by an elongated, generally U-shaped clamp bracket terminated by a bracket mount flange on each end to facilitate mounting the clamp bracket to the support. A pair of spaced-apart leg notches and a central neck notch are provided in the upper edge of the clamp bracket for receiving the legs and neck, respectively, of the carcass, which leg notches initially receive the rear legs of the horizontal carcass. A clamp bar is pivotally mounted on the clamp bracket and a coiled latch spring provided on the clamp bar is stretched taut and caused to engage the clamp bracket to secure the clamp bar against the rear legs of the carcass and the carcass in the clamp bracket, as a knife is used to partially skin the carcass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2000
    Inventors: Brian T. Lochbrunner, Tom I. C. P. Lochbrunner
  • Patent number: 5954575
    Abstract: The invention relates to an arrangement for automated handling of a carcass and parts separated therefrom in mechanically assisted cutting and boning. In mechanically assisted cutting and boning, a hook or similar must be applied manually into the part to be separated. According to the present invention, the hook application is located so as not to delay the operator performing the cutting and the boning. The arrangement comprises a conveyor line (5) for transport of the carcasses suspended from a first hook (2), from a preparatory work station to a work station for separation of a part (3) from the carcass. A second hook (4) is applied into said part (3) of the carcass at the preparatory work station and is transported to the work station together with the carcass (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1999
    Assignee: ConAgra, Inc.
    Inventor: Lars-Erik Norling
  • Patent number: 5836812
    Abstract: A portable animal carcass carrier enables two men to easily carry an animal carcass across difficult terrain. The carrier contains a multi-section pole from which the carcass is suspended when the ends of the pole are supported on the shoulders of the men. The pole contains pads at each end for cushioning the shoulders. The carrier also contains three straps for attachment to the carcass and for placement over and across the pole. The first strap contains two hooks for inserting into the hind legs of the carcass, the second strap contains two loops for securing the front legs of the carcass, and the third strap contains a single loop for securing the head of the carcass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1998
    Inventor: Timothy J. Brackett
  • Patent number: 5820455
    Abstract: A portable animal hoist (10) comprises the vertical member (12). The member holder (12B) is securely attached to the top end of the vertical member (12) on one distal end. The opposite distal end of the member holder (12B) is wrapped around the tree (30) and securely fastened with the removable fastening device to the top of the vertical member (12) by the vertical member horizontal bracket (12A). The member holder (12B) functions to removably support the portable animal hoist (10) on the verticle member. A top cross member (14T) is securely attached perpendicularly to the top end of the vertical member (12). The bottom cross member (14B) securely attached at the bottom end of the vertical member (12) and positioned perpendicularly thereto. A horizontal member (16) is pivotally connected at the back distal end by the first fastener (28) to the top end of the vertical member (12) extending perpendicularly therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1998
    Inventor: William F. Breedlove
  • Patent number: 5791858
    Abstract: A vehicle mounted game skinning device 10 comprising a vertical support unit 11 having a hitch connection member 30 connected on one end to a vehicle hitch 101 and connected on the other end to a vertical column member 20 which slideably receives a boom arm member 40 and a winch unit 12 mounted on the vertical support unit 11 and provided with a game gambrel 80 for raising and lowering game animals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1998
    Inventor: Kenneth W. Sasser
  • Patent number: 5761992
    Abstract: A portable game animal storage unit, particularly adapted for use in storing, transporting and preserving game animals, is defined by an enclosure sized to house a harvested game animal. For instance, for deer hunting, the enclosure is designed to be approximately eight (8) feet tall, three (3) feet wide and two (2) feet deep. At least one of the panels is provided with a reclosable opening for accessing an internal cavity of the enclosure in order to place the harvested animal within the enclosure and to remove the animal therefrom. Various handles are provided externally of the enclosure for use in carrying the storage unit between desired locations. In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, the storage unit is defined by a pliable bag which can be refrigerated in order to maintain the meat of the animal within a desired temperature range for aging and preservation purposes. A fine screen mesh is used to form part of the bag when enhanced ventilation is desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1998
    Inventor: Charles V. Gallo
  • Patent number: 5672099
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for collecting hangers hanging from overhead or a conveyor rail installed in, for example, a meat processing plant and for returning such collected hangers to the conveyor rail including a guide bar installed under the conveyor rail. The conveyor rail and the guide bar are provided with parallel curved portions at the ends so that the end of the guide bar is positioned above the end of the conveyor rail, thus the hangers having been suspended from the conveyor rail are inverted and brought upside-down at the end of the conveyor rail and suspended from the guide bar via the hook portions of the hangers. The thus upside-down hangers are collected on a carrying truck, and they are returned to the conveyor rail using a hanger transfer disk rotatably installed between the carrying truck and the guide bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 30, 1997
    Assignee: Fukutome Meat Packers, Ltd.
    Inventors: Munenori Takamagari, Yoshito Harada
  • Patent number: 5626514
    Abstract: A small game skinning device including an elongated frame tubing that has a first end and a second end. A short frame tubing that is L-shaped. The short frame tubing has an upper end and a back end that is positioned over the first end of the elongated frame tubing. Included is a ratcheting mechanism with a spool. The ratcheting mechanism and spool are both supported above the second end of the elongated frame tubing by a pair of support arms, and an axial rod. The spool has a drum that has a heavy-duty cord wound therearound. Lastly, a pair of claws forming a first claw and a second claw are included. The first claw is positioned through an upper end of the short frame tubing by a threaded rod fixedly attached thereto. The second claw has an eyelet that receives one end of the cord. The cord has another end that is wrapped around the spool. The first claw is hooked onto a part of a small animal, while the second claw grapples with the animal's back skin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 6, 1997
    Inventor: Herman H. Rothove
  • Patent number: 5626515
    Abstract: Method for fixation of cut up carcasses of slaughter hogs (3), which are suspended at their hind legs and which have been eviscerated after the cutting, during which fixation in particular the spinal column of the hog is aligned relative to the median plane of the carcass by means of a member (10) clutching the snout of the animal, said member exerting a downwards pull to stretch out the animal during the cutting of the carcass, or for processes requiring a similar fixation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 6, 1997
    Assignee: Danfotech & Slagteriernes Forskningsinstitut
    Inventor: Knud Krogh
  • Patent number: 5599226
    Abstract: The invention provides a plant for separating a part from a carcass comprising a main conveyor (1) for transporting the carcass (2) hanging in a first meat-hook (4) the main conveyor. According to the invention a separate work station (3) is arranged near the main conveyor (1) for separating and forwarding the separated part. The work station comprises a second meat-hook (5) or the like for attachment to the part to be separated and means (6, 6') for moving the second meat-book. This movement may be determined arbitrarily either through a predetermined timing program controlling the moving means or directly by an operator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 4, 1997
    Inventor: Lars-Erik Norling
  • Patent number: 5588907
    Abstract: A portable game hoist for hanging game or other objects from an existing support structure. The inventive device includes a main beam which can be rested upon or secured relative to a support structure such as spaced rafters or a vertical support. A winch is secured relative to a first end of the main beam and stores a cable which is directed through the main beam to a second end thereof. The cable extends over a pulley at the second end of the main beam and couples with a hanger so as to permit hanging of game animals or the like relative to the support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 31, 1996
    Inventors: Richard P. DePietro, Brian J. Wilkinson
  • Patent number: 5562534
    Abstract: A portable game hoist and skinning aid which includes a support frame for supporting a deer carcass in a hoisted position off the ground and which may be attached to a tree, post or other vertical object by straps, chains or other means. The device includes a hand operated winch having a cable which may be passed over an upper pulley attached to the support frame to raise the deer carcass into position. The cable may also be run through a lower pulley and then attached to the skin of the animal so that operation of the winch provides assistance in skinning the suspended animal carcass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 8, 1996
    Inventor: Alvin H. McGough
  • Patent number: 5518445
    Abstract: The present invention comprises an elongated bar which is trough-shaped having side walls, at least one of which has a foodstuff securement arrangement such as slots placed therethrough, or a foldable panel attached thereto, so as to hold a foodstuff such as the tail of a shrimp securely therein. The elongated bar may also have a cover and end walls which all act to help enclose the secured portion of the foodstuff (shrimp) from any food processing operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 21, 1996
    Inventor: Charles H. Morse
  • Patent number: 5482501
    Abstract: An apparatus for removing the skin from an animal carcass. The apparatus comprises a cable, a two stage ball, and a skinner plate. The specially shaped two stage ball has a larger lobe and a relatively smaller lobe and a neck connecting the two lobes. To begin the skinning process, cuts are made in the deer's skin, or hide, and a portion of skin behind the deer's neck is pulled back. The skinner plate is placed on the raw side of the hide. The relatively smaller lobe of the two staged ball is pushed through an aperture in the skinner plate from the hair side of the hide. The cable is then tightened around the neck of the two stage ball, thereby cinching the hide to the two stage ball. A pulling force can then be applied on the cable and the skin peeled from the animal carcass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 9, 1996
    Inventor: Benjamin D. Frits
  • Patent number: 5417609
    Abstract: A portable wild game hanging device is provided. The device has a J-shaped hook with transversely oriented base and arm portions. The hook may be secured about an elevated support, such as an elevated tree limb with the arm portion located over the elevated support. A pulley mechanism is supported under the arm portion of the hook on a rod which is coupled to the base portion of the hook. The pulley mechanism may be used to hoist and support a wild game animal. A pole is removably located in the hook in a pole receptacle which is coupled to the base portion of the hook. The pole may be used to lift the hook, rod, and pulley mechanism to an elevated support. The pole is formed of interlocking telescoping sections so the pole may be extended to lift the hook over an elevated support, and may be compressed for easy transport.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 23, 1995
    Inventor: Gregory E. Oldham
  • Patent number: 5395284
    Abstract: A big game hoisting tool comprising a handle supporting a winch which acts on a line running over a pulley at the end of a telescoping adjustable handle that can be hooked over a tree limb or any overhead structure making it a completely portable device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 7, 1995
    Inventor: Mark D. Frisk
  • Patent number: 5336129
    Abstract: A device for removing the hide from a carcass of an animal comprising a base plate including a clamping hole disposed thereon, means for securing a cable thereto, a notch disposed thereon for guiding the cable away from the securement means, and means for securing the hide to an externally positioned and prepared animal carcass through the clamping hole of the base plate, so that when the cable is pulled, the hide is torn away from the carcass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 9, 1994
    Inventor: Walter Frith
  • Patent number: 5336124
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for skinning while protecting the hide and carcass of game animals while the game animal may be held in a horizontal position at ground level. The apparatus includes a head harness for connection of the head of the game animal to a stationary object. Also included is a skin remover which is attachable to the skin of the animal just below a neck incision and is also attachable to a vehicle bumper. A wrap-around game bag locatable beneath the game during the skinning process ensures that dirt and debris are kept away from the game during the skinning process. The method of skinning includes attaching the head of the game to a stationary object, attaching the skin remover to a vehicle and then applying force with the vehicle to the skin of the animal while the animal remains attached to the stationary object. Just before the skinning occurs and when tension is maximized, the bag is located in its open orientation beneath the game animal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 9, 1994
    Inventor: Ted L. Garside
  • Patent number: 5288265
    Abstract: A hinged gambrel support which folds and latches for storage. Each of a pair of support arms include one or more gambrel retainer projections, mating latch surfaces and tie off apertures. A bored axle at one arm mates with and is retained to the other arm at a recessed bore via a split ring fastener. Latch surfaces at the retainer projections interlock upon folding the arms for storage. In an alternative construction the arms are length adjustable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 22, 1994
    Inventors: Lynn Beason, Donald O. Danell
  • Patent number: 5211601
    Abstract: A mechanical device for removing the skin from whitetail deer or other game animals of simular size. This invention is self-supporting and needs no assistance from tree limbs or other permanent overhead structures as conventional methods. With the skin holders (21) the skin is held stationary while the carcass is lifted and pulled from the skin. The carcass is pulled from the skin by mechanical means as compared to the skin being pulled from the carcass by hand with the present method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 18, 1993
    Inventor: Travis L. Cope
  • Patent number: 5180328
    Abstract: An apparatus (10) and method for removing a hide (14) from a back portion of a carcass (12) is provided. The apparatus (10) comprises first and second peeling members (18 and 20) pivotally mounted on a frame (28). The members are positionable to enter a gap (22) between the carcass (12) and the hide (14) due to carcass (12) movement. The back portion of the hide (14) is removed by pivoting the members (18 and 20) to peel the hide (14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 19, 1993
    Assignee: Monfort, Inc.
    Inventor: Albert D. Davis
  • Patent number: RE36645
    Abstract: An apparatus (10) and method for removing a hide (14) from a back portion of a carcass (12) is provided. The apparatus (10) comprises first and second peeling members (18 and 20) pivotally mounted on a frame (28). The members are positionable to enter a gap (22) between the carcass (12) and the hide (14) due to carcass (12) movement. The back portion of the hide (14) is removed by pivoting the members (18 and 20) to peel the hide (14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2000
    Assignee: Monfort, Inc.
    Inventor: Albert D. Davis