SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CUTTING BREAD LOAF INTO SANDWICHES

A system and method for cutting a bread loaf into sandwiches comprising two partially connected slices of bread with a pocket there between. The system and method comprise measuring the outline of the bread loaf and cutting a sandwich pocket as well as cutting a sandwich off the bread loaf, according to a predetermined sandwich width or per user's preferences.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a system and method for cutting a bread loaf into sandwiches, and more specifically to a system and method for cutting bread loaf into sandwiches comprising sandwich pockets.

BACKGROUND

Sliced bread loaves are commonly found in any store that sells food, e.g., supermarkets, grocery stores, etc. A sliced bread loaf makes it easier for the customer to consume the bread without the need to cut it by himself. The customer may eat each slice on its own with or without a spread, or may make sandwiches out of two slices of bread, typically, two adjacent slices of bread, and may eat these two slices together after inserting any edible ingredient or after spreading a spread on either or both of the slices that create the sandwich.

Typically, the spread or other edible ingredient that is inserted between the two slices of bread may drip, spill or fall out of the sandwich, since such a sandwich is made out of two separate slices of bread, which are attached to one another only via the grip of the user eating the sandwich or via the stickiness of the ingredient inserted within (e.g., the stickiness of a spread such as peanut butter) but in fact there is an opening around the entire circumference of such a sandwich through which the edible ingredient may fall out.

Therefore, there is a need for a system and method for cutting a bread loaf into sandwiches that would prevent a spread or any other edible ingredient from dripping or falling out of the sandwiches.

SUMMARY

An aspect of an embodiment of the disclosure relates to a system and method for cutting a bread loaf into sandwiches that comprise a closed portion at which the two slices creating the sandwich are attached and are not cut all the way through, i.e., two slices of bread comprising a pocket there between. The system and method may provide a bread loaf cut into sandwiches comprising sandwich pockets, such that these sandwiches comprise an open end or open portion through which a user may insert a spread or any other edible ingredient, while further comprising a closed portion that will prevent the spread or edible ingredient from dripping or falling out of the sandwich. For example, when the sandwich has a substantially square shape; the open portion may be on one side of the sandwich, while the closed portion may be on the other three sides of the sandwich.

In one embodiment of the disclosure, a system for cutting a bread loaf into sandwiches, each sandwich comprising two partially connected slices of bread with a pocket there between may comprise:a loading unit for loading the bread loaf into the system;a measuring unit for measuring an outline of the bread loaf;a processor for determining a contour of a sandwich pocket; anda cutting unit for cutting a sandwich pocket according to the determined contour, and for cutting its respective sandwich off the bread loaf.

In some embodiments, the loading unit may be a conveyer.

In some embodiments, the processor may be configured to receive user preferences comprising a sandwich width according to which the cutting unit cuts the bread loaf.

In some embodiments, the system may further comprise a packaging unit for packaging all cut sandwiches in one package. In some embodiments, the system may comprise a packaging unit for separately packaging each cut sandwich. In some embodiments, a packaging unit may package all separately packaged sandwiched in one package.

In some embodiments, an optimal pocket contour may be determined by the processor to be closest to the sandwich outline.

In some embodiments, the measuring unit may measure the outline of the bread loaf in order to determine the width of the next sandwich, and the contour of its respective sandwich pocket during cutting of the previous pocket or during cutting of the previous sandwich off the bread loaf.

In some embodiments, the system may comprise an exit through which the cut sandwiches exit the system.

In another embodiment of the disclosure, a method for cutting a bread loaf into sandwiches, each sandwich comprising two partially connected slices of bread with a sandwich pocket there between, may comprise:inserting the bread loaf into a system for cutting sandwiches comprising sandwich pockets;measuring an outline of the bread loaf, e.g. of a front portion of the bread loaf for cutting a sandwich;determining the width of the sandwich and the contour of its respective pocket based on the measured outline of the bread loaf;cutting the sandwich pocket, according to the determined sandwich pocket contour; andcutting the sandwich off the bread loaf, according to the determined width.

In some embodiments, the method may comprise packaging all the cut sandwiches in one package. In some embodiments, the method may further comprise packaging each cut sandwich in a separate package. In yet further embodiments, the method may comprise packaging all the separately packaged sandwiches into one package.

In some embodiments, inserting the bread loaf into the system may be performed by loading the bread loaf onto a conveyer.

In some embodiments, measuring the outline of the bread loaf in order to determine the width of the next sandwich, and the contour of its respective sandwich pocket may be performed following every cut of a sandwich.

In some embodiments, measuring the outline of the bread loaf in order to determine the width of the next sandwich, and the contour of its respective sandwich pocket may be performed during cutting of the previous sandwich pocket or during cutting of the previous sandwich off the bread loaf.

In some embodiments, the method may comprise exiting the cut sandwiches out of the system.

In some embodiments, the width of the sandwich may be determined by a user per the user's preferences.

In some embodiments, an optimal pocket contour may be determined to be closest to the sandwich outline while having enough width such to not easily tear.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In one embodiment of the disclosure, a method for cutting a bread loaf into sandwiches, while creating sandwich pockets therein, is disclosed. The method may comprise loading a bread loaf into a system for cutting such sandwiches comprising sandwich pockets, and measuring the outline of the bread loaf in order to determine the location of the cut of the sandwich pocket along the bread loaf, the contour of the sandwich pocket and the location along the bread loaf of the cut of the sandwich off the bread loaf. Following measuring the outline of the bread loaf and determining characteristics of the cut of both the sandwich pocket and the entire sandwich, cutting the pocket and sandwich takes place according to those measurements. The method may further comprise separately packaging each sandwich on its own, and/or packaging the entire sandwiches into one package, for ease of handling by the customer.

In another embodiment of the disclosure, a system for cutting a bread loaf into sandwiches, while creating pockets therein, is disclosed. The system may comprise several units: a loading unit for loading the bread loaf into the system, a measuring unit for measuring the outline of the bread loaf and determining the location and contour of the cut of the pocket and of the sandwich off the bread loaf, a cutting unit for cutting the sandwich pocket within the sandwich and for cutting the sandwich off the bread loaf, and a packaging unit for separately packaging each sandwich in a separate package, and/or for packaging all cut sandwiched into one package for ease of handling by the customer.

In the context of some embodiments of the present disclosure, without limiting, the contour of the bread loaf is defined as the shape and size of a cross-section of the brad loaf.

In the context of some embodiments of the present disclosure, without limiting, the contour of the sandwich pocket is defined as the shape or outline of the pocket as well as the distance of the pocket outline from the closed portion(s) of the sandwich or from the edges of the sandwich slices.

Reference is now made toFIG. 1A, which schematically illustrates a system for cutting a bread loaf into sandwiches and creating sandwich pockets therein, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. System100may be configured to cut a bread loaf into sandwiches, whereby each sandwich may be comprised of two partially connected slices of bread with a pocket cut between these two slices of bread. Accordingly, each sandwich may comprise an open end or an open portion and a closed end or a closed portion. An open end may be created by cutting the pocket all through the edge of the bread loaf, through which a spread of any kind or edible ingredient of any kind may be spread or inserted, respectively, into the sandwich pocket created in between the two slices of bread. A closed portion may be created by configuring the cut of the pocket not all the way through to the edge of the bread loaf, but rather by leaving a margin such to enable the two slices of bread to stay connected thus keeping the spread or food inserted into the sandwich within the sandwich, and preventing the spread or food placed into the pocket from dripping or falling out of the sandwich.

Typically, the closed portion is located along the edge of the sandwich which does not include the open end of the sandwich. In some embodiments, the open portion may occupy the majority of the circumference of the sandwich, whereas in other embodiments, the closed portion may occupy the majority of the outline of the sandwich.

In some embodiments, system100may comprise loading unit102, which may be configured to load a bread loaf into the system. Loading unit102may comprise a conveyer, pulling/pushing brushes, a pushing mechanism or any other element that may assist in driving, propelling, thrusting, boosting or pushing the bread loaf into the system while preventing the customer from pushing his own hands into the system. Implementing a loading unit102in system100is done for safety reasons, e.g., in order to avoid injury to a customer resulting from various components of the system if the customer were to push his hands into the system. In addition, preventing the user from placing his hands into the system may assist in maintaining a clean and hygienic environment within the system. Furthermore, loading unit102may also be implemented for reasons of ease of use, such to minimize the actions that the user is required to perform prior to operation of system100.

In some embodiments, loading unit102may be automatically operated once a bread loaf is placed onto it. Unit102may detect presence of the bread loaf by various sensors, e.g., a weight sensor that is to detect change in weight on loading unit102, a photoelectric sensor that uses a beam of light for detecting presence of an object, etc. Once the sensor detects presence of a bread loaf placed onto loading unit102, loading unit102may begin operating and pushing the bread loaf into system100in order to continue all subsequent steps required to produce a bread loaf cut into a plurality of sandwiches, each comprising a sandwich pocket therein.

In other embodiments, loading unit102as system100, may be manually operated by a customer who wishes to cut the bread loaf he purchased, into sandwiches. Manual operation of system100and of loading unit102may include pressing a button, touching an icon on a touch screen, or moving a cursor, or any other indication that is translated into a command to start operation of system100. In other embodiments, the user may slightly push the bread loaf in an initial push onto loading unit102, which may cause initiation of loading unit102, which may continue to pull/push the bread loaf onto it, and into system100. In some embodiments, once manual operation is performed by the customer, all or some of the other steps that are required to produce a bread loaf cut into sandwiches, each comprising a sandwich pocket, are performed automatically.

In some embodiments, system100may further comprise a measuring unit104. Measuring unit104may be connected to loading unit102. Measuring unit104may be configured to measure an outline of the loaded bread loaf or a portion thereof, for example an outline of a front portion of the bread loaf which is to be cut into a next sandwich. Measuring unit104may comprise measuring sensors which may measure the distance between at least one point on the outline of at least a portion of the bread loaf and the measuring sensors. In some embodiments, the measuring sensors may measure the distance between a plurality of points along the outline of at least a portion of the bread loaf and the measuring sensors, for example by rotating around the circumference of the bread loaf to obtain each distance measurement. The measuring sensors, e.g., optical switch sensors, may also provide measurement of an angle from which such a distance measurement is obtained, such that the distance and respective angles are translated into the contour of the bread loaf or portion thereof. The contour of the bread loaf or the contour of the bread loaf cross section is important to measure since it affects the contour of the pocket that is to be cut by system100, and may also affect the width of the sandwich that is to be cut by system100.

In some embodiments, system100may further comprise control unit106, which may be coupled to measuring unit104. Control unit106may be an integral part of measuring unit104or may be a separate unit from measuring unit104. In some embodiments, control unit106may be configured to make a determination based on the measurements performed by measuring unit104, with regards to the width of the sandwich and the contour of the sandwich pocket that are to be cut by system100. In some embodiments, based on the selected or designated width of each sandwich, the control unit106may calculate or estimate the number of sandwiches that may, be created from a given bread loaf, and may display the calculated number to the consumer or user or system100.

Control unit106may receive a user/customer input regarding the user's preferences concerning the size, e.g., the width of at least one sandwich that is to be cut by system100via cutting unit108. In some embodiments, control unit106may receive the user's input via a system input unit or interface107.

In some embodiments, the user may define a single width per all sandwiches to be cut from a bread loaf, such that system100may cut all the sandwiches at the same width. However, in other embodiments, the user may define a first width per one sandwich or per a group of sandwiches, a second width that is different from the first width per a second sandwich or a second group of sandwiches, and a third, fourth and so on different widths per any number of sandwiches until reaching the total amount of sandwiches that may be cut from the bread loaf depending on the total length of the bread loaf. In other embodiments, the size, e.g., width of one or more sandwiches may be predefined by control unit106. For example, the width of a sandwich may be between 10 mm to 25 mm.

In some embodiments, control unit106may be a central control unit, which may be coupled to or in communication with all units of system100, such to control operation of all of the units of system100. In some embodiments, measuring unit may comprise an internal controller that is configured to directly control the measuring process, and only then to send the measurement related data to the central control unit106. Additional units may have an internal controller, e.g., system100may comprise a controller configured to control one or more engines of system100, e.g., each of the three engines that operate the three axes cutting unit108.

In some embodiments, central control unit106may be a computer, which may or may not be integrated with a screen or display. Any one of the internal controllers may be, for example, a controller selected from MSP430™ series of ultra-low-power microcontrollers by Texas Instruments, though any other controller may be implemented.

In some embodiments, the contour of the sandwich pocket may be determined by control unit106based on the measurements of the outline of the bread loaf. An optimal, preferred, or proper pocket size and contour may be defined as a pocket which is cut close to the edge of the bread loaf, such that the margin remaining between the pocket contour and the closed portion of the sandwich would be thin enough to enable insertion of a spread or any other edible ingredient very close to the edge of the sandwich, while avoiding tear or separation of the two slices of bread from one another. Such criteria for defining an optimal, proper or preferred pocket may enable attaining a maximal area of the sandwich pocket relative to the area of the sandwich slices, thereby maintaining a minimal area of margin between the pocket contour and the edges of the sandwich slices which is required in order to keep the two slices attached. The proper margin or distance between the pocket contour and the edges of the bread may be, for example, between 10 mm to 15 mm. The proper distance between the pocket and the edge of the bread may be substantially consistent all along the outline of the bread loaf/sandwich. In some cases, the proper margin may be dependent on various parameters, e.g. the type of bread, the width of the sandwich slices, or a preference of the consumer. In some embodiments, control unit106may send a command to cutting unit108, with information regarding the size of the sandwich that is to be cut, as well as the contour of the pocket that is to be cut within the sandwich. Cutting unit108may comprise a knife, which may be made of a sufficiently hard material such as metal or plastic. The knife may be operated using back and forth cutting motion, or using vibrations. In some embodiments, the knife of cutting unit108may be configured to vibrate along an axis that is perpendicular to the axis along which the bread loaf is cut, in order to effectively cut the sandwich pocket and the sandwich off the bread loaf.

In some embodiments, cutting unit108may comprise an ultrasonic knife, which operates using ultrasonic vibrations. Precision of an ultrasonic knife is extremely high, in addition to the minimal amount of crumbs created by cutting with such a knife, which makes an ultrasonic knife a preferred selection to be implemented in cutting unit108, though other knifes with other types of vibrations, e.g., subsonic vibrations, may be used.

According to some embodiments, cutting unit108may first cut a sandwich pocket with a pocket contour which is at a proper distance from the edge of the slice, such that the width of the two slices or the sandwich to be cut is according to a selected or predefined sandwich width. After cutting the pocket, according to the proper pocket size determined based on the outline of the bread loaf (as measured by measuring unit104), a second cut is made by cutting unit108. The second cut is made all the way through the bread loaf in order to separate the sandwich from the bread loaf. Thus, a sandwich with a sandwich pocket cut within, is created following the first and second cuts by cutting unit108. In other embodiments, cutting unit108may first cut a slice of bread off the bread loaf at the proper width for a sandwich, either as selected by the user or per a predetermined or configurable width, and only then cut a pocket within the bread slice according to the proper size and contour as determined by control unit106. However, it should be noted that it is less complex to keep the sandwich attached to the bread loaf while cutting the sandwich pocket compared to first detaching a sandwich from the bread loaf and only then cutting the sandwich pocket therein.

In some embodiments, system100may comprise a first packaging unit110. Packaging unit110may be configured to package each and every sandwich that is cut by cutting unit108. Packaging unit110may package each sandwich within a separate package. System100may further comprise a second packaging unit112that may be configured to package the entire amount of cut sandwiches into a single package. In some embodiments, system100may only comprise packaging unit112, such to only package all the sandwiches together into one package. In other embodiments, system100may comprise both packaging unit110and packaging unit112, such that each sandwich is initially packaged separately in its own package by packaging unit110, and then all separately packaged sandwiches are packaged into one large package by packaging unit112. In yet other embodiments, system100may only comprise packaging unit110such that the sandwiches are packaged in separate packages, and all these separately packaged sandwiches may exit system100to be collected by the user as individual sandwiches.

System100may further comprise an exit114through which the bread loaf that is cut into sandwiches with pockets may exit system100to be collected by the user. In some embodiments, the cut sandwiches may emerge out of exit114while separately packaged as individual sandwiches as well as packaged all together in one large package, or packaged in one large package without being initially packaged in individual packages.

In some embodiments, measurements of the outline of the bread loaf by measuring unit104, in preparation of cutting a new sandwich, may be performed during the cutting process of either the pocket of the previous sandwich, or during the cutting process of the previous sandwich off the bread loaf. In other embodiments, measuring unit104may perform measurements of the outline of the bread loaf, in preparation for cutting a new sandwich, after the cutting process of the previous sandwich has been completed.

In some embodiments, measuring unit104may comprise a location sensor such to determine location and length of the bread loaf, e.g. along its longitudinal axis, with respect to the measuring unit. The location sensor may be implemented in order to determine whether there is still enough bread left in the bread loaf such to enable cutting off additional sandwiches. If the remaining bread loaf is shorter than the width of a new sandwich, no new cutting is performed, whereas if the bread loaf is long enough for cutting a new sandwich, then such a new sandwich is cut by cutting unit108. The location sensor may sense the location and/or length of the bread loaf following every cut of a sandwich, in order to determine whether the bread loaf has been fully cut, is too short for a new sandwich, or may be cut further for an additional sandwich.

In some embodiments, the location sensor may be an optical distance measurement sensor, which may include a light emitter and a light detector, and may measure the distance to an object by detecting a light spot position of reflection on the light detector. For example, the location sensor may be an infrared distance measurement sensor, e.g. selected from Sharp's GP2Y0E series, e.g., any of GP2Y0E02A, GP2Y0E02B, or GP2Y0E03. Such distance sensors may be manufactured by Sharp Microelectronics, or Panasonic. In other embodiments, the location sensor may be laser based, acoustic based or may include an image sensor, e.g., a CMOS imager. Other optional location sensors may be selected from sonar sensors, ultrasonic distance measurement sensors, etc.

Reference is now made toFIG. 1B, which schematically illustrates a system for cutting a bread loaf into sandwiches and for cutting sandwich pockets therein, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. As described with respect toFIG. 1A, loading unit102may be configured to load a bread loaf into system100. Loading unit102may be connected to measuring unit104, which may be configured to periodically, continuously, or substantially continuously measure the contour of the bread loaf or a portion of the bread loaf that was loaded into system100via loading unit102. In fact, measuring unit104may measure the cross section of the bread loaf or the cross section of a portion thereof, e.g. in order to measure the cross section of each new sandwich before cutting it.

In some embodiments, system100may comprise a central control unit configured to control all units of system100, e.g., central control unit106(FIG. 1A). However, in some embodiments, in addition to a central control unit, which may be located at the bottom side of system100, (though other locations are possible including remote locations), measuring unit104may comprise an internal controller such to control in real-time the measurements performed by measuring unit104. The internal controller (not shown) of measuring unit104may ensure that the bread loaf contour measurements are promptly recorded by the internal controller and avoid loss of any measurements if they were to be recorded by the central control unit. Loss of measurements may occur since it may take longer to send the measurements to the central control unit instead of recording the measurements locally using an internal controller and only then sending all recorded measurements to the central control unit.

In some embodiments, system100may comprise a cutting unit108, which may be configured to cut a sandwich pocket as well as to cut a sandwich off the bread loaf. The cutting scheme according to which cutting unit108may cut the sandwich pocket and the sandwich, may be determined by a processor that may be coupled to or may be an integral unit of central control unit106.

Following cutting of the sandwich pocket and following cutting of the sandwich off the bread loaf, the sandwich may enter or may be directed into a first packaging unit110, which may be configured to separately package each single sandwich. All of the separately packaged sandwiches may then accumulate onto a second packaging unit112, which may be configured to package the entire bread loaf (which is cut into sandwiches) into a single large package that is sized to contain the entire bread loaf. System100may further comprise exit114, through which the packaged bread loaf may exit system100such to be collected by the customer. In some embodiments, exit114may comprise an exit tray, though in other embodiments, exit114may comprise other elements.

Reference is now made toFIG. 2, which schematically illustrates a flow chart of a method200for cutting a bread loaf into sandwiches comprising two partially connected slices of bread, thereby creating pockets between the two slices, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. In some embodiments, method200may comprise step202of loading a bread loaf into a system for cutting a bread loaf into sandwiches, such that each sandwich comprises two partially connected slices of, bread with pockets created between the two slices. The loading step202may comprise placing or positioning the bread loaf into a loading unit, e.g., loading unit102(FIGS. 1A-1B). In some embodiments, regardless of the position or placement of the bread loaf into loading unit102, the bread loaf may be automatically aligned to a selected position, e.g. aligned with a longitudinal axis of the bread loaf. The loading unit of the system may comprise a conveyer, brushes, a driver, a pushing or pulling mechanism or any other mechanism that may drive or direct the bread loaf into the system.

The method200may further comprise step204of measuring the outline of the bread loaf or of a portion of the bread loaf. Step204of measuring the outline of the bread loaf may be performed by a measuring unit, e.g., measuring unit104(FIGS. 1A-1B), which may be part of the system for cutting a bread loaf into sandwiches with pockets. The outline of the bread loaf may be measured along a cross section of a longitudinal axis of the bread loaf, e.g. a front portion of the bread loaf from which the next sandwich is to be cut.

Following measuring the outline of the bread loaf in step204, the method may comprise step206of determining the width of the sandwich and determining the contour of the sandwich's respective pocket that should be cut by the system100. Determination regarding the size of the sandwich that is to be cut by the system100, and further regarding the contour of the pocket that is to be cut such to create a sandwich that is open on one end, while being closed on another, typically opposite end, is made based on the measurements of the bread loaf outline performed in step204. The step206of determining the width of the sandwich and the contour of its respective pocket may be performed by a controller, e.g., control unit106(FIG. 1A) that may be coupled to the measuring unit, which performs the measuring step204. Determining the width of the sandwich may additionally or instead be based on a configurable or predefined width parameter which may be stored in control unit106, or may be based on a width input received from the consumer via a system input unit or interface107(FIG. 1A).

Following determining the width of the sandwich and size and contour of its pocket that should be cut, in step206, the method may comprise step208of cutting a sandwich pocket in the bread loaf. In some embodiments, the pocket is first cut within the bread loaf by a cutting unit, and only then step210of cutting a sandwich off the bread loaf takes place, since it may be more complex to first cut a slice off the bread loaf and only then to cut a pocket therein, in order to create the pocketed sandwich comprising one open portion and one closed portion. It may be simpler, quicker and thus more cost effective to first cut the pocket and only then cut the entire sandwich off the bread loaf. The cutting of both the pocket and the sandwich off the bread loaf may be done by a cutting unit, e.g., cutting unit108(FIGS. 1A-1B).

The method may comprise an optional step212of packaging the cut sandwich in a designated and individual package. Packaging each cut sandwich into an individual package may be performed by a packaging unit, e.g., packaging unit110(FIGS. 1A-1B).

In some embodiments, as mentioned above, the system may comprise a processor, controller and/or control unit that may be coupled to the measuring unit, and which may control measuring of the bread loaf as an initial step prior to cutting a new sandwich, either after a previous sandwich is cut off the bread loaf, or during cutting of a previous sandwich off the bread loaf or during cutting of a pocket of a previous sandwich. In addition, the system may comprise a location sensor for determining location of the bread loaf with respect to the measuring unit, such to determine the amount of bread loaf remaining following a cut of a sandwich. Such a location sensor may also be coupled to the measuring unit, as is the control unit. Therefore, according to step214, such a location sensor may determine whether there is a sufficient amount of bread for cutting more sandwiches, or whether the bread loaf is too small for cutting an additional sandwich, or even whether there is nothing left of the bread loaf since it was already fully cut into sandwiches.

If there is still enough bread remaining of the bread loaf for cutting additional sandwiches, then the method returns to step204of measuring the outline of the bread loaf, such to determine the size and contour of the pocket and the width of the sandwich, as in step206, and further to cut the pocket and sandwich as in steps208and210, respectively, and so on. However, if there is not enough bread for cutting more sandwiches, then the method may comprise step216of packaging all the cut sandwiches into one package. Step216of packaging the entire sandwiches into one package may be performed by the same packaging unit that may package each sandwich in a separate package, or it may be performed by a separate designated packaging unit for packaging all the sandwiches into one large package, e.g., packaging unit112(FIGS. 1A-1B).

Finally, the method may comprise step218, for pushing or directing the package comprising all sandwiches to an exit tray or collection unit (e.g., through exit114, (FIGS. 1A-1B) such that the packaged sandwiches may be available to be collected by the customer.

Reference is now made toFIGS. 3A-3B, which schematically illustrate a top view and a side view of a loading unit for loading the bread loaf into the system for cutting a bread loaf into sandwiches with pockets, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. According to some embodiments, loading unit300may be configured to load a bread loaf into the system for cutting a bread loaf into sandwiches with pockets therein. Loading unit300may comprise at least two brushes, e.g., brush302and brush312, which may be located on opposite sides of tray306. When a user places a bread loaf in between brushes302and312, the brushes may turn around shafts303and313, respectively, such to push the bread loaf onto tray306.

The bread loaf may then slide over tray306until it lands on base301, between flaps304and314, which may be located on opposite sides of base301. The shape created by flaps304and314onto base301, may be similar to a Y shape, such that there is an opening created between flaps304and314close to the location where tray.306ends and base301begins. Flaps304and314are located further along the base301, and connected to them are aligners304aand314a, respectively. Aligners304aand314atake on a shape of a substantially straight line (this is the “leg” of the Y shape), which is configured to align the bread loaf at a certain angle with respect to the measuring unit500(FIG. 3B).

Loading unit300may further comprise a pushing mechanism310, which may be located at the connection between tray306and base301. In some embodiments, pushing mechanism310may be configured to shove and push the bread loaf in between flaps304and314, such that the longitudinal axis of the bread loaf will be aligned in between aligners304aand314aand be perpendicular with respect to the contour of measuring unit500. Pushing mechanism310may also be configured to push the bread loaf while between flaps304and314so that the bread loaf reaches measuring unit500in order to begin the measuring process. Pushing mechanism310may be operated by a motor321(FIG. 3B) and the bread loaf may be moved along a rail311, which is located in the middle of the plane defined by base301.

Since the width, size or diameter of bread loaves may vary, and in order to properly align a bread loaf of any size, with respect to the measuring unit500, aligners304aand314amay be connected to pins that may change or automatically modify their length in order to adjust the space between aligners304aand314ato fit the size (e.g., width or diameter) of the bread loaf. In some embodiments, aligner304amay be connected to pins330and332, while aligner314amay be connected to pins340and342. In some embodiments, pin330may be located at a distance from pin332, along the plane defined by base301. In some embodiments, pin340may be located at a distance from pin342, along the plane define by base301. Each of pins330,332,340and342may be connected to a spring, which may enable the pins to move back and forth in a direction that is perpendicular to the direction of movement of pushing mechanism310along rail311. The springs may be soft springs that would enable movement of the pins once slight forces are applied by the bread loaf onto the pins330,332,340and342and thus onto their respective springs. That is, the mere push of a bread loaf in between aligners304aand314acauses all pins to move backwards such to make room for the bread loaf to continue passing along aligners304aand314a.

When pushing mechanism310pushes the bread loaf between aligners304aand314a, each of the pairs of pins, e.g., the pins330and332on one side of the bread loaf and the pins340and342on the other side of the bread loaf may be pushed back, respectively, in order to create space for the bread loaf through which to enter between aligners304aand314a, in a direction that is perpendicular to the direction of movement of pushing mechanism310along rail311, further away from rail311. For example, pins330and332may both be pushed away from rail311, along an axis that is perpendicular to the direction of movement of pushing mechanism310along rail311, while pins340and342may both be pushed along an axis that is perpendicular to the direction of movement of pushing mechanism310, and further away from rail311towards a side that is opposite the side towards which pins330and332are pushed. A controller may be configured to control the movement of pushing mechanism310, though instead of an internal controller, the movement of pushing mechanism310may be controlled by a central control unit, e.g., central control unit106(FIG. 1A).

As described inFIG. 3B, brush312may be connected to a motor332, which may be configured to operate the rotation movement of brush312. Similarly, brush302may be operated by a respective motor (not shown).

Reference is now made toFIGS. 4A-4C, which schematically illustrates two side views and a top view of a loading unit, according to another embodiment of the disclosure. Loading unit400may be used instead of loading unit300(FIGS. 3A-3B), as part of a system for cutting sandwiches with pockets therein. Loading unit400may comprise a tray401onto which a user or customer may place a bread loaf, e.g., bread loaf402. Connected to tray401may be arm411, while arm411may be located perpendicular to tray401. Arm411may comprise an extension420, which may comprise a rail412. Rail412may pass along extension420, while both rail412and extension420may be perpendicular to arm411and parallel to tray401.

Arm411may further comprise a pushing mechanism410. Pushing mechanism410may be positioned in parallel to the vertical axis of arm411, and may move along rail412such to push the last or substantially last piece of bread loaf402that is to be cut, towards the entrance of the measuring unit. Pushing mechanism410may also be moved up and down along the vertical axis of arm411by arm415such to raise above tray401when no bread loaf has yet entered tray401, or be lowered down towards tray401such to be used to push bread loaf402(e.g., the final piece of bread loaf402) towards the measuring unit.

Prior to operation of pushing mechanism410, two conveyers may be configured to push the bread loaf402along tray401. For example, conveyer431may be located on one side of tray401, perpendicular to the plane defined by tray401, while conveyer432may be located on another side of tray401, perpendicular to the plane defined by tray401, whereby the conveyers431and432may be located parallel to one another. Bread loaf402may be pushed by conveyers431and432such to pass between the conveyers431and432, as the conveyers turn around their respective pulleys. Conveyer431may comprise pulley441and pulley451around which the conveyer belt may turn. Conveyer432may comprise pulley442, pulley452and may comprise additional pulleys (not shown) around which the conveyer belt of conveyer432may turn. Simultaneous turning of the conveyer belts431and432may cause bread loaf402to lie pushed along tray401. Pushing mechanism410may be used in order to push the end of the bread loaf402so that the end of bread loaf402reaches the end of tray401, which is also the beginning of the measuring unit. Since pushing a small piece of bread might not be properly achieved by merely using conveyers431and432on both sides of the small piece, pushing mechanism410that may be located behind bread loaf402may be operated to push the small piece of bread loaf further.

Determination regarding the location and remaining length of bread loaf402and thus controlling operation of pushing mechanism410, may be made based on measurements of a presence sensor460(FIG. 4C). Presence sensor460may be located at a certain predetermined location along tray401, and its distance from either end of tray401is also predetermined, thus when the bread loaf is located on top of presence sensor460, a controller (not shown) may operate arm411to lower pushing mechanism410until pushing mechanism410reaches or almost reaches tray401, in order to push bread loaf402towards the measuring unit. In other embodiments, pushing mechanism410may be configured to operate such to only push the final or substantially final piece of bread loaf, since the majority of the bread loaf may be pushed along tray401by motion of conveyers431and432.

Conveyers431and432may provide a pushing force onto the bread loaf402while turning around their respective pulleys, as well as provide alignment of bread loaf402with respect to the location of the entrance to the measuring unit, e.g., measuring unit500located adjacent to loading unit300(FIG. 3B). In some embodiments, and as illustrated inFIG. 4C, conveyer431may be static in such that it may not change its location along the plane defined by tray401. However, conveyer432may be adjustable or moveable along the plane defined by tray401, such to move farther away from conveyer431in order to enable any size of bread loaf to enter between conveyer431and conveyer432. Conveyer432may be moveable by being connected to a spring which may compress when force is applied onto it, e.g., when a bread loaf is pushed forward between conveyer431and conveyer432and thus pushes conveyer432away from conveyer431in order to expand the space between the conveyers and to enter into that created space. The bread loaf may be maintained constantly aligned with respect to the measuring unit, such to be able to enter it freely in order to allow all measurements to take place.

As illustrated inFIG. 4A, brad loaf402may enter tray401while pushing mechanism410is located above of bread loaf402. Pushing mechanism410is still located above bread loaf402since bread loaf402hasn't been pushed enough by conveyers431and432to fully enter tray401, such to allow pushing mechanism410to enter behind bread loaf402.FIG. 4Billustrates pushing mechanism410located at its lower position along arm411, ready to push bread loaf402towards the measuring unit. InFIG. 4B, the conveyers431and432pushed bread loaf402along tray401such to provide space for pushing mechanism410to enter behind bread loaf402for continued pushing motion towards the exit of loading unit400and into the measuring unit. Loading unit400may be connected to the measuring unit via connector450. Conveyers431and432, and/or pushing mechanism410may continue to push bread loaf402forward through the measuring unit, following each measuring process performed prior to cutting a new sandwich, until the entire bread loaf402is measured by the measuring unit and the final pocket is cut in the final sandwich of bread loaf402.

Reference is now made toFIG. 5A, which schematically illustrates a measuring unit for measuring the outline of a bread loaf, which is part of the system for cutting a bread loaf into sandwiches with pockets, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Once a bread loaf, e.g., bread loaf402, is pushed into measuring unit500by the loading unit (e.g., loading unit300or400), the process of measuring the outline of bread loaf402may begin. Measuring unit500may comprise a frame560onto which all or at least a portion of components of measuring unit500may be attached. Measuring unit500may comprise at least two lying arms503and504that hold the bread loaf402while it is positioned inside measuring unit500. Arms503and504may typically be of a small width in order to prevent arms503and504from hiding the outline of bread loaf402, which is to be fully measured by measuring unit500, while providing enough stability for the bread loaf402to rest on arms503and504. The distance between arm503and arm504is configured to be large enough to enable measuring the maximum outline of bread loaf402located in between the arms. For example, if the typical bread loaf has a width or diameter between 10 cm to 15 cm, the distance between leg503and leg504may be between around 25 mm±10 mm. In some example, the width of each of leg503and leg504may be approximately 5 mm. In other embodiments, other widths and distances may be implemented.

In some embodiments, measuring unit500may comprise a measuring ring510onto which the sensors for measuring the bread loaf outline, are located. Measuring ring510may have attached on the inner side of its circumference, at least two distance sensors, e.g., distance sensor520and distance sensor521, each configured to measure the distance between the circumference of measuring ring510and the bread loaf402. The distance between the circumference of the measuring ring510and the bread loaf402, may be determined as the distance between any of distance sensors520or521and the bread loaf402. Measuring ring510may be rotatable, and may be rotated around bread loaf402while distance sensors520and521may continuously, substantially continuously or periodically measure the distance between the measuring ring510and bread loaf402. In other embodiments, only a discrete number of measurements may be acquired by each of distance sensor520or distance sensor521. The number of measurements acquired by either of the distance sensors520or521may be predetermined.

Typically, distance sensor520may be located across distance sensor521, such that 180 degrees separate between the two distance sensors520and521. That is, the location of the distance sensors520and521along the circumference of measuring ring510is along a diameter of the circumference, and creates an imaginary half circle. In case distance sensor520is indeed located across distance sensor521, there is no need for measuring ring510to complete an entire cycle of rotation around bread loaf402but rather to only complete half a cycle of rotation, since during half a cycle the entire circumference of bread loaf402is measured by the two sensors; half of the outline of bread loaf402may be measured by distance sensor520while the other half of the outline of bread loaf402may be measured by distance sensor521. If more than two distance sensors are implemented on the inner side of the circumference of measuring ring510, such that the distance between any pair of distance sensors is identical to the distance between any other pair of distance sensors, measuring ring510may rotate around bread loaf402such to complete a cycle even smaller than half a cycle. In some embodiments, other numbers of distance sensors may be used. Furthermore, the measuring ring510may not necessarily be configured as a ring, and need not necessarily rotate.

In some embodiments, the location sensor may be an optical distance measurement sensor, which may include a light emitter and a light detector, and may measure the distance to an object by detecting a light spot position of reflection on the light detector. For example, each of distance sensors520and521may be selected from Sharp's GP2Y0E series, e.g., any of GP2Y0E02A, GP2Y0E02B, or GP2Y0E03. Such distance sensors may be manufactured by Sharp Microelectronics, or Panasonic. In other embodiments, the distance sensors520and521may be laser based, acoustic based or may include an image sensor, e.g., a CMOS imager. In some embodiments, other or additional distance sensors may be used, e.g. sonar sensors, ultrasonic measurement sensors, or any combination thereof.

Measuring unit500may further comprise two optical switch sensors522, and523, as well as a flap524. Switch sensors522and523may be stationary, and may be located onto frame560in close proximity to measuring ring510. Flap524may be attached to the outer side of the circumference of measuring ring510, thus flap524may move simultaneously with movement, e.g., rotation, of measuring ring510. When flap524enters into the space associated with either of switch sensors522or523, flap524may obstruct the path of light beam, causing a low voltage output, as compared to the high output when the light beam is not interrupted by flap524. In some embodiments, optical switch sensor522may be located across optical switch sensor523, such that the distance between the two switch sensors may be of 180 degrees.

Once measuring ring510is rotated and flap524enters the space associated with switch sensor522, it may be determined that the measuring ring510begins its half rotation cycle of measuring the outline of a bread loaf. Once measuring ring510is rotated such that flap524enters the space within switch sensor523, it may be determined that measuring ring510has finished half a rotation cycle of measuring the outline of a bread loaf. Since the distance between switch sensor522and switch sensor523is predetermined as being 180 degrees, each step or rotational movement that measuring ring510performs during its rotation cycle, may be translated into a certain angle, with respect to the spatial location of either of switch sensor522or switch sensor523. For example, the location of switch sensor522may be defined as an angle of zero degrees, while the location of switch sensor523may be defined as an angle of 180 degrees, since the distance between switch sensor522and switch sensor523may be predetermined and set to 180 degrees (when switch sensors522and523are located one across the other on the measuring ring outline, and along two points that are located on a diameter of measuring ring510).

In one embodiment, the controller of measuring ring510(e.g. controller106or another controller) may be configured to rotate the measuring ring510to one or more configurable or predetermined angles. In another embodiment, the controller of measuring ring510may be configured to rotate the measuring ring510and stop the rotation based on feedback from switch sensors522,523.

Each rotation motion of measuring ring510may be referred to herein as a step or a rotational movement. A predetermined amount of steps or rotational movements performed by measuring ring510may be required in order to complete the measurement of the bread loaf outline. For example, in order to complete sensing the outline of the bread loaf along a plurality of points, the location of switch sensor523may be defined as 180 degrees and the location of switch sensor522may be defined as zero degrees. Thus, each step may be translated into a certain angle or arc (with respect to the angle of zero degrees defined by the location of switch sensor522), by dividing 180 into the total number of steps. That is, any number of steps performed by measuring ring510from the location of switch sensor522towards the direction of the spatial location of switch sensor523, may be translated into a specific movement angle or arc of the measuring ring510.

It is noted that the exemplary embodiment of a ring that rotates to complete half a circle in order to measure the outline of a bread loaf is brought only as an example for measuring the outline of the bread. Other embodiments may be implemented, e.g. by using less measuring sensors and rotating the measuring ring a full rotation, or, by using more sensors and not rotating the ring at all. In yet other embodiments, the measuring sensors need not be positioned along a ring, but may be positioned in any other spatial configuration, and may be calibrated in order to obtain correct distance measurements from the sensors to the outline of the bread loaf.

According to some embodiments, every distance measurement acquired by either of distance sensors520or521may be acquired at a different angle with respect to the location of either of switch sensor522or switch sensor523. That is, distance measurements may be acquired by distance sensors520and521, while the corresponding angle (or arc) from which such distance measurement were acquired may be inferred via switch sensors522and523, as explained above. The measured distances may be assigned with their corresponding angle at which each of these distances were acquired, and these pairs of distance and respective angle may be obtained and recorded by a processor (not shown), e.g. controller106, that may calculate the outline of the bread loaf402according to the information provided by these pairs of distance-angle.

Measuring ring510may be rotated around bread loaf402by a timing belt516, which rotation may be operated by a motor550(FIG. 6A). Timing belt516may be wrapped around measuring ring510as well as around wheel512. In some embodiments, wheel512may be directly coupled to motor550, such that motor550may cause wheel512to rotate, which in turn causes timing belt516to move around measuring ring510thereby causing measuring ring510to rotate around bread loaf402.

Measuring unit500may further comprise belt tensioner514, which is configured to ensure belt516is looped around wheel512and further around measuring ring510at an appropriate high tension to ensure smooth turning of measuring ring510and of wheel512.

Reference is now made toFIG. 5B, which schematically illustrates contours of various sandwich pockets, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. In some embodiments, a processor may be in communication with the measuring unit, e.g. processor which may be included in controller106, such that the processor may be configured to determine a contour of a sandwich pocket that is to be cut by a cutting unit108. The processor may calculate the contour of the sandwich pocket based on measurements of the contour of each new sandwich, as performed by the measuring unit500. The processor may calculate an optimal or proper pocket contour such that the width of margin or distance, e.g., width5001between the contour of the sandwich pocket, e.g., sandwich pocket51and the edge of the sandwich, e.g., sandwich50, is of a predetermined or configurable width, or a minimal width.

In some embodiments, the width of the margin or distance of the contour of the sandwich pocket from the edge of the sandwich may be different at different locations along the edge of the sandwich. For example, width5000of the margin, which may be located at the bottom end of sandwich50, may be smaller compared to width5001of the margin, which may be located at a side positioned perpendicularly to the bottom side of sandwich50. In some embodiments, the margin of the contour of the sandwich pocket from the edge of the sandwich may be substantially the same along the entire edge of the sandwich. For example, width5002of the margin, which may be located at the bottom end of sandwich52may be of substantially the same size as width5003of the margin, which may be located perpendicularly to width5002.

In some embodiments, the processor may calculate a proper pocket contour such that the width of the margin of the contour of the sandwich pocket from the edge of the sandwich may be minimal at any location along the edge of the sandwich. In some embodiments, the processor may calculate a configurable pocket contour such that the width of the margin of the contour of the sandwich pocket from the edge of the sandwich may be configurable, and may be uniform or varied in any location along the edge of the sandwich.

An optimal or proper margin of the sandwich pocket from the edge of the sandwich may be based on the type of bread that is to be cut, for example, there are breads made of soft dough compared to other breads made of stiffer dough. In bread loaves made of soft dough, the margin or distance of the sandwich pocket contour from the edge of the sandwich should be larger compared to the distance of the sandwich pocket contour from the edge of the sandwich in stiff bread loaves, since soft dough tends to tear more easily compared to stiff dough.

In some embodiments, the processor may calculate an optimal, minimal or proper sandwich pocket contour based on various parameters of the bread loaf (e.g., type of dough, whether or not the bread contains any additions to the dough, e.g., raisins, nuts, etc.). In other embodiments, the processor may be configured to determine the same pocket distance from the sandwich edge per any sandwich, regardless of the bread's parameters or type.

In some embodiments, the processor may receive user preferences, which may comprise the width of a sandwich, while in other embodiments, the processor may be programmed to implement a predetermined sandwich width.

The various sandwich cross-sections illustrated inFIG. 5B, which comprise a sandwich pocket, are only examples of endless shapes of bread loaves and thus of endless shapes of sandwiches. It should be clear that the position and orientation at which the bread loaf is inserted into the system affects the location of the sandwich pocket. For example, assuming the cutting unit is located above each of the illustrated sandwiches, sandwich52that has the shape of a rectangle, may be inserted into system100such that one of its narrower sides is lying on the receiving tray. In this example, sandwich pocket53is cut such to follow the contour of sandwich52, while the open portion5052of sandwich52is located on the narrow side located in close proximity to the cutting knife, while the closed portion5053of sandwich52is located along the rest of the sandwich sides. However, sandwich52may be inserted into system100at the orientation of sandwich54, such that the bread loaf is lying on one of the wider sides of the rectangle shaped sandwich54. This orientation of sandwich54is positioned at a rotation of 90 degrees compared to the orientation of sandwich52. In this case, the contour of sandwich pocket55is orientated at a rotation of 90 degrees compared to the contour of sandwich pocket53. Furthermore, the open portion5054of sandwich54may be on located on the wide end located in close proximity to the cutting knife, whereas the closed portion5055may be located on substantially three other sides of the sandwich, along the margin of sandwich54.

Similarly, sandwich58is oriented at 180 degrees compared to sandwich60, thus the orientation of sandwich pockets59is oriented at 180 degrees compared to sandwich pocket61, respectively. Accordingly, the open portion of each of these two sandwiches (e.g., open portion5058of sandwich58, and open portion5060of sandwich60) may be oriented at 180 degrees compared to one another, as do the closed portions of both sandwiches (e.g., closed portion5059of sandwich58, and closed portion5061of sandwich60). Additional shapes are illustrated by sandwich50and sandwich56, though the bread loaf that may be loaded into system100, and which may be cut into sandwiches comprising sandwich pockets may have many other shapes. Furthermore, it is noted that each sandwich may have a contour different from a previous or next sandwich in the same bread loaf.

In some embodiments, the contour of the sandwich pocket may be substantially similar to the cross section of the sandwich it is cut into. The cutting motion of the knife may be configured to follow alongside the outline of the bread loaf. That is, when the contour of the sandwich is round, the contour of the sandwich pocket will be created by configuring the knife to follow alongside the sandwich contour and the resulting pocket will also be round (e.g., sandwich60and respective sandwich pocket61). When the contour of the sandwich is substantially square, the knife will be configured to cut along substantially square contour, such that the resulting contour of the sandwich pocket will also be substantially square (e.g., sandwich52and respective sandwich pocket53). In other embodiments, the cutting knife is not necessarily configured to perform round movements at the entry and exit of the cutting knife into the sandwich, while cutting the pocket. Therefore, in such cases, the contour of the sandwich pocket may be straight at the entry and exit of the cutting knife into the sandwich while starting and ending the cutting process of the pocket, whereas along the cutting process in between the entry and exit of the knife from the sandwich, the contour of the sandwich pocket may be substantially similar to the contour of the sandwich's cross section (e.g., sandwich56and respective sandwich pocket57).

Reference is now made toFIGS. 6A-6D, which schematically illustrate a front-side view, exploded perspective side view, a front view and a perspective side-view of a section of an exemplary measuring unit, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. As illustrated inFIG. 6A, measuring unit500may comprise a measuring ring510, which may be rotated around a bread loaf, e.g., bread loaf402(FIG. 5A). Measuring ring510may be rotated around a bread loaf via timing belt516, which may be turned by wheel512that may be operated by motor550. Motor550may be located on the other side of measuring unit500, opposite wheel512. Measuring ring510may have attached thereon a distance sensor, e.g., sensor520(and sensor521illustrated inFIG. 5A) located on the inner side along the circumference of measuring ring510. As explained above, distance sensor520may measure the distance between the inner side of the circumference of measuring ring510and the bread loaf. The angle from which the distance is measured, may be acquired by switch sensors, e.g., switch sensors522and523(FIG. 5A). As illustrated inFIG. 6B, measuring ring510may comprise teeth or indentation and protrusions510aall along the outer side of its circumference. These indentations and protrusions510amay correspond to the respective protrusions and indentations located along timing belt516. Similarly, wheel512that may be connected to motor550and which may rotate measuring ring510, may also comprise indentations and protrusions that correspond to the protrusions and indentations along timing belt516.

Furthermore, measuring unit500may comprise a plurality of wheels, e.g. approximately six wheels561,562,563, and564(two more are hidden behind measuring ring510). These wheels may be configured to center measuring ring510with respect to frame560that measuring ring510is located within. Each of wheels561,562,563,564, etc. may hold measuring ring510at the same angle with respect to frame560.

Reference is now made toFIG. 6C, which illustrates a front perspective view of the side of measuring unit500, where motor550is located. This side is opposite the perspective side view illustrated inFIGS. 6A-6B.FIG. 6Cillustrates all sensors; distance sensors520and521, as well as switch sensors522and523with their respective flap524. Each pair of sensors may be located at a distance of 180 degrees from one another, e.g., distance sensors520may be located at a distance of 180 degrees from distance sensor521, and switch sensor522may be located at a distance of 180 degrees from switch sensor523. As explained above, the distance of 180 degrees is ideal in order to enable a quicker acquisition of the outline measurements of the bread loaf, since more than one sensor located at a distance of 180 degrees to another sensor, enables acquisition of distance and angle measurements along half a turn of the measuring ring510, instead of acquisition of distance and angle measurements along an entire cycle of measuring ring510.

With respect toFIG. 6D, it is illustrated that measuring ring510may comprise several inner rings, e.g., rings531,532,533and534, which may be separated from one another by respective separators541,542,543and544. These inner rings may be located along the circumference of measuring ring510, on the side opposite the side comprising indentations and protrusions which fit into the respective protrusions and indentations of timing belt516(FIG. 6A). —Separators541,542,543and544may be higher than the indentations serving as rings531,532,533and534, in order to provide adequate separation between one ring to another. Each of rings531,532,533and534may be configured to carry an electrical wire of a different electrical component in measuring unit500in order to prevent such electrical wires from tangling within one another during rotation of measuring ring510. For example, ring531may be configured to carry the electrical wire connecting between distance sensor520(FIG. 5A) to a power source (not shown), whereby the electrical wire may be wound around ring531. In one example, ring532may be configured to carry the output electrical wire of distance sensor520, whereby the electrical wire may be wound around ring532. In one example, ring533may be used to carry the electrical wire connecting distance sensor521to a power source (not shown), whereby the electrical wire may be wound around ring533. In one example, ring534may be configured to carry the output electrical wire of distance sensor521, whereby the electrical wire may be wound around ring534.

In one example, separator541may separate between ring531and ring532. Separator542may separate between ring532and ring533. Separator543may separate between ring533and ring534, and separator544may separate between ring544and the edge of measuring ring510.

In other embodiments, other numbers of inner rings, and thus other numbers of separators may be implemented, all according to the number of components located along the circumference of measuring ring510and which move and turn simultaneously with the turning motion of measuring ring510.

Reference is now made toFIG. 7, which is a schematic illustration of a cutting unit, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Cutting unit700may comprise a base702which may be positioned along a plane defined by axes X and Z. Cutting unit700may further comprise a cutting arm701, which may be positioned along axis Y, and may be connected to base702. Therefore, cutting arm701may be located perpendicularly to base702. Cutting arm701may be configured to hold the element that may be used to cut the pocket within the sandwich as well as to cut the sandwich off the bread loaf. Cutting arm701may comprise a rod711onto which section710may slide up and down, along axis Y, in order to raise or lower, respectively, extension717, which is connected to the cutting element (e.g., cutting element707,FIGS. 8A-8B). That is, the cutting element may be raised or lowered as part of the sandwich cutting process of a bread loaf.

In some embodiments, section710may be coupled to motor708, which may operate the sliding motion of section710along rod711. In some embodiments, there may be more than one rod711, such to offer better stability to section710during its up and down sliding motion along such rods.

In some embodiments, base702of cutting unit700may further comprise rods712and722located along axis Z. In some embodiments, cutting arm701may move along rods712and722. Base702may comprise a secondary base730, which may be located on top of base702and parallel to base702, whereby secondary base730may slide along rods712and722while being connected to arm701, thus causing arm701to slide along rods712and722. Rods712and722may be located along axis Z, and arm701may slide along these rods in either direction—forward or backwards along axis Z, as part of the sandwich cutting process of a bread loaf. The sliding of arm701along axis Z may be performed by a different motor than the one controlling sliding of section710along axis Y, e.g., movement of arm701may be operated by motor706.

In some embodiments, secondary base730may have attached thereon rods732and734, which may be configured to enable movement of cutting arm701in either direction along axis X. Element740that is also connected to cutting arm701, may be configured to move cutting arm701along rods732and734, which is equivalent to movement of arm701along axis X, as part of the sandwich cutting process of a bread loaf. The movement of arm701along axis X may be performed by a different motor than the one controlling movement along axis Y or Z, e.g., movement of arm701may be operated by motor704.

Movement of cutting arm701along axis X may be performed when cutting a pocket or cutting the sandwich from one side of the bread loaf to the other opposite side. Movement of cutting arm701along axis Z may be performed when there is, a need to locate the cutting arm at the correct location along axis Z prior to beginning of the cutting process of a pocket, and then to relocate arm701along axis Z (e.g., move arm701backwards, i.e., further away from the cut edge of the bread loaf and towards the uncut end of the bread loaf) prior to cutting the sandwich off the bread loaf. Movement along axis Y of section710of arm701may be performed during the cutting process of the pocket within the sandwich and of the sandwich off the bread loaf, in order to adjust the depth of the cut into the bread loaf, along axis Y.

In some embodiments, each of the above mentioned rods that operate movement of cutting arm701along the three axes X, Y and Z, may have attached on both ends of each rod an optical switch sensor (not shown). These optical switch sensors may enable calibration of operation of cutting unit700, every time that system100is turned on. The distance between the optical switch sensors is known, and the steps taken by arm701along each of the rods may then be translated into distance (for example, distance measured in [mm]). In addition, these optical switch sensors may provide safety by determining when the rod has reached the end of its path. If a controller that may be coupled to each of the engines of each of the three axes of the cutting unit, sends a command to arm701to move to a location that is past the end of the path of a certain rod, then the central control unit may send a command to stop operation of the engine controlling motion of that certain rod, once the end of the path of a rod is sensed by the respective optical switch sensor positioned on that certain rod.

Reference is now made toFIGS. 8A-8C, which schematically illustrate a front-side view of a cutting unit that is part of the system for cutting a bread loaf into sandwiches with pockets, a front-side view of the cutting and measuring units, and a knife for cutting a bread loaf into sandwiches, respectively, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.FIGS. 8A and 8Billustrate cutting unit700comprising the cutting element707, e.g., a cutting knife that cuts the bread loaf. According to some embodiments, knife707may be attached to extension717, which may be connected to section710. As described with respect toFIG. 7, section710may move, e.g., slide, along rod711, which may be attached to cutting arm701. That is, section710of cutting arm701, along with cutting knife707may be moved along axis Y, e.g., may be raised above a bread loaf or lowered towards the bread loaf that is to be cut by cutting knife707.

FIG. 8Aillustrates cutting unit700alone, whereasFIG. 8Billustrates cutting unit700along with measuring unit500, as implemented in system100. Measuring unit500may be located in close proximity to cutting unit700, such that the outline of bread loaf402may first be measured by measuring unit500in order to determine the size of the pocket and sandwich that is to be cut by cutting unit700. A control unit may receive the measurements measured by measuring unit500, and process them into the appropriate size of pocket and sandwich that is to be cut by cutting unit700, and further send instructions to cutting unit700, based on such processing.

In some embodiments, knife707may be a standard metal knife, with a smooth blade or a serrated blade. In other embodiments, knife707may be made of plastic or any other solid material.

According to some embodiments, knife707may be configured to vibrate along an axis that is perpendicular to the axis along which the bread loaf is being cut. For example, as illustrated inFIG. 7, cutting arm701is located parallel to plane XY, that is, the bread loaf is being cut in parallel to plane XY; first along axis Y, when knife707enters into the bread loaf and cuts down through it along axis Y, and then along axis X, when knife707moves along the width of the bread loaf, whether for cutting a sandwich pocket or for cutting the sandwich off the bread loaf. Therefore, when knife707moves along axis Y, knife707may be configured to vibrate along axis X, which is perpendicular to axis Y, in order to effectively cut the bread loaf. In some embodiments, knife707may further be configured to vibrate along axis Y, for even better cutting efficiency and effectiveness, when knife707moves along axis X.

Knife707may vibrate in ultrasonic, subsonic, or any combination thereof. In the subsonic vibrations, the amplitude of knife707may be e.g., around 2-5 mm, with a frequency of e.g., 500-1000 Hz.

In some embodiments, knife707may be an ultrasonic knife that uses ultrasonic vibrations in order to make a smooth cut. Knife707may vibrate along an axis that is perpendicular to the axis along which the bread loaf is being cut. For example, if knife707cuts the bread loaf along axis Y then knife707may vibrate along a perpendicular axis, e.g., axis X in ultrasonic vibrations. And if knife707cuts the bread loaf along both axis Y and axis X, as explained above, knife707may vibrate along both, axis X and axis Y, respectively, in ultrasonic vibrations. Knife707may be, for example, an ultrasonic knife model MC-5020L manufactured by MECS (Mechanism Electronic Control Service), though any other ultrasonic knife may be implemented as part of cutting unit700. An ultrasonic generator (not shown) sends an ultrasound high power signal through a transducer, which converts the signal into a mechanical vibration comprising a very small amplitude (e.g., as small as 20 μm) with high power (e.g.,500W). In some embodiments, the ultrasonic generator may send vibrations to knife707at a frequency range beyond the human hearing, e.g., above 20 kHz. Ultrasonic knives have high precision and make clean cuts with little waste (e.g., a small amount of bread crumbs accumulate during cutting of the bread loaf with an ultrasonic knife) compared to standard knives, thus making ultrasonic knives a preferable option to be implemented as part of the cutting unit700.

According toFIG. 8C, knife707may comprise a main body807and a rounded blade808. In some embodiments, if knife707cuts the bread loaf along axis X, then knife707may be configured to vibrate along an axis that is perpendicular to axis X along which knife707moves, e.g., knife707may vibrate along axis Y. Due to the rounded shape of blade808, although knife707is configured to vibrate only along axis Y, the rounded ends of blade808may provide an angled cut, that is, the rounded ends of blade808may move along vectors that comprise a component in the direction of the X axis, as well as a component in the direction of the Y axis. For example, blade808may move along vector811, which may comprise a component in the direction of axis X as well as a component in the direction of axis Y.

Therefore, even though knife707is configured to vibrate along axis Y alone, the rounded blade808may vibrate along axis X in addition to vibrating along axis Y. This may be advantageous when the bread loaf is to be cut along both axis Y and axis X. Thus, instead of causing knife707to vibrate along both axis X and axis Y, knife707may vibrate along axis Y only, while vibrations along axis X are inherent at the rounded ends of blade808, due to the shape of knife707, which comprises rounded blade808.

In some embodiments, in addition to subsonic vibrations or ultrasonic vibrations, knife707may be configured to perform “fast-cutting” vibrations. In the “fast-cutting” vibrations, the amplitude of knife707may be e.g., 10 mm, with a frequency of e.g., 1 Hz up to 300 Hz. These type of vibrations may significantly improve the effectiveness of the subsonic and/or ultrasonic vibrations. Typically, knife707may be configured to vibrate according to the “fast-cutting” vibrations along an axis that is perpendicular to the axis along which the bread loaf is being cut. For example, when knife707is cutting the bread loaf along axis Y, then knife707may include “fast-cutting” vibrations along axis X, in addition to the subsonic vibrations and/or ultrasonic vibrations along axis X.

In some embodiments, during cutting of a sandwich and its respective sandwich pocket by the cutting unit, e.g., cutting unit700, a new sandwich may be measured by the measuring unit, e.g., measuring unit500. That is, measuring unit may measure the outline of the bread loaf in order to determine the width of the next sandwich, as well as the contour of its respective sandwich pocket during cutting of a previous sandwich pocket or during cutting of a previous sandwich off the bread loaf.

Reference is now made toFIG. 9A, which is a schematic top-side view of the arms that hold the bread loaf during its cutting, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Unit900may comprise the arms or forks that are configured to hold the bread loaf while it is being cut, and which are to be separated when the cutting of the pocket and sandwich are done, such to enable the cut sandwich to fall and continue its way towards the next unit of system100.

In some embodiments, unit900may comprise arms or fork901, which may be an extension or may be connected to tray401. Across arms901, there may be arms or fork910, which may be connected to wall920. Wall920may be configured to support the edge of the bread loaf, e.g., the sandwich that is being cut by cutting unit700. Wall920may be located perpendicularly to arms910, and thus perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the bread loaf being cut, and parallel to the plane defined by the sandwich being cut off the bread loaf. Unit900may further comprise element930. One section of element930may be located behind wall920, while another part of element930may be perpendicular to wall920. The part of element930which is perpendicular to wall920may be configured to support the side of the bread loaf, e.g., to support the bread loaf with respect to its longitudinal axis. In some embodiment, element970may be located behind element930, and may be connected to arm701of cutting unit700.

In some embodiments, when cutting unit700cuts through the bread loaf, fork901is located across fork910such that the teeth or arms of fork901are located in close proximity to the arms or teeth of fork910. When the arms of fork901are close and even touch the arms of fork910, fork901and fork910provide support to the bread loaf and specifically to the part of the bread loaf that is being cut by cutting unit700. After cutting the pocket within the sandwich and following completion of cutting the sandwich off the bread loaf, fork910may be moved away from fork901, thus creating space between fork901and fork910. The space created between fork901and fork910may be configured to be large enough such to enable passage of the cut sandwich therethrough. Control of the movement of fork910away from fork901, may be controlled by a control unit (not shown). In order for fork910to move away from fork901, such to enable the cut sandwich to continue its journey along system100, e.g., to a packaging unit, elements930and970should also move away from fork901. Therefore, the control unit is to control movement of arm701away from tray401(FIG. 8B) following completion of the cutting process, thus enabling element930to move away from tray401and away from fork901, and further enabling fork910to move away from fork901and further away from tray401.

Reference is now made toFIGS. 9B-9C, which schematically illustrate a perspective view, and a back-side view of the door that holds the bread loaf during its cutting process and which opens after the cutting process is accomplished, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. As described with respect toFIG. 9A, tray401may have attached arms or fork901, which may be configured to hold and support the bread loaf. Opposite arms or fork901may be positioned unit990, which may assist in holding and supporting the bread loaf during its cutting process. Unit990may comprise a wall997, which may be positioned perpendicularly to fork901. Wall.997may further comprise door991, which may have attached teeth992. When in its closed position such to provide support to a bread loaf, door991may be positioned perpendicularly to wall997, which his equivalent to door991being perpendicular to fork901. When door991is in its open position such to enable a cut sandwich to continue towards the packaging process, door991may no longer be positioned perpendicularly to wall997but may rather be located at an angle with respect to wall997. In other embodiments, when in open position, door991may open such to be substantially parallel to wall997, or even be located on the same plane as wall997.

In some embodiments, both door991and teeth992may support the edge of the bread loaf being cut, e.g., the plane of the sandwich that is parallel to wall997. The edge of the bread loaf may rest on or be pushed onto door991and teeth992, while door991and teeth992may support the bread loaf from the bottom side of the bread loaf. Teeth992may be positioned at an angle with respect to the horizontal plane of door991, therefore enabling the cut sandwich to slide from door991more easily, off teeth992and into the packaging unit, once door991is open.

In some embodiments, unit990may further comprise a flap993, which may be pass through wall997and may be connected to a micro-switch995(FIG. 9C). Flap993may be pushed back when a bread loaf is pressed against wall997and thus against flap993, via the loading unit, e.g., loading unit300or loading unit400. Once flap993is pushed back, micro switch995may sense such movement, and correlate it with presence of the bread loaf onto door991. Micro switch995may be connected to a central control unit of system100, or it may be coupled to an internal control unit, e.g., control unit998. Either of these types of control units may receive indication of presence of a bread loaf onto door991, and may further send a command to a cutting unit, e.g., cutting unit700, to cut a pocket into the bread loaf as well as to cut a sandwich off the bread loaf that is positioned on door991. Control unit998may be wirelessly connected to micro switch995and to cutting unit700. Following the cutting process, door991may be operated to change position to its open position, such to enable the cut sandwich to slide and fall towards the next unit in system100, e.g., the packaging unit.

As can be seen inFIG. 9C, micro switch995may be connected to flap993such to receive information on presence of a bread loaf onto door991, via movement of flap993that may be caused when a bread loaf is pushed against flap993. In some embodiments, control unit998may also be connected to a motor, which may operate door991and may cause it to change positions from its closed position (when a bread loaf is placed onto it) to its open position (when a sandwich is to slide off door991and enter the next unit along system100), and vice versa. Control and motor units998may move arm996, or more specifically hinge996hwhich is located at one end of arm996. Arm996may be connected to door991via hinge996hon one of its ends, while being connected to wall997on its other end. When control and motor998causes hinge996hto move e.g., rotate, it in fact causes door991to move and switch between its open and closed positions.

In some embodiments, door991may be connected to wall997through arm996via hinge996h. In other embodiments, door991may be further connected to wall997through additional supports such as hinges999, in order to provide better stability in the connection between door991and wall997. If door991is held by more than one hinges and/or arms, then door991is connected to wall997in a more stable and solid manner.

Reference is now made toFIG. 10which is a schematic illustration of a packaging unit for packaging a cut sandwich, which is part of the system for cutting a bread loaf into sandwiches with pockets, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. In some embodiments, once fork910moves away from fork901, space is created, which is large enough for the cut sandwich to pass through. The sandwich may then enter the packaging unit1000via sandwich guide1010. Sandwich guide1010may be configured to guide the sandwich into a sandwich bag. Sandwich guide1010may comprise a guide door1020in the shape of a bendable leg, which may be configured to either be in a straight ‘open’ position, thus allowing the sandwich to enter into its package or bag1060, or may be in a bent ‘closed’ position, thus preventing the sandwich from entering its respective sandwich bag1060. Packaging unit1000may further comprise an actuator1030, which may actuate and control changing the positions of the sandwich guide from ‘open’ to ‘close’ and vice versa. When a sandwich is being cut, the sandwich guide is actuated by actuator1030to remain in its ‘closed’ position. However, when the sandwich is fully cut by cutting unit700, the actuator1030actuates the sandwich guide to open, thus allowing the cut sandwich to fall into its sandwich bag, e.g., sandwich bag1060.

In some embodiments, while a sandwich is being cut by cutting unit700, one sandwich bag, e.g., bag1060, is sucked by air pump1040via suction tube1080, from the sandwich bag cartridge1050, which may be hung on rod1070. Sandwich bag1060is sucked by vacuum pressure by pump1040towards pump1040, thereby being separated from the rest of the bags attached to the sandwich bag cartridge1050. Pump1040keeps its high negative pressure such that the sandwich bag1060is kept open, “waiting” for a sandwich to enter into it. Once a sandwich is cut, the actuator1030operates the sandwich guide1010to open, thus changing the configuration of guide door1020from bent position, i.e., closed position, to its straight position, i.e., open position, and the sandwich slides or falls into sandwich bag1060.

Reference is now made toFIGS. 11A-11B, which are schematic illustrations of the sandwich bag and guide door after the bag is open but the guide door is still closed, and after the guide door is open such to insert the sandwich into the bag, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.FIG. 11Aillustrates guide door1020in its closed position, prior to entry of a sandwich into the vacuumed sandwich bag1060via guide1010.FIG. 11Billustrates guide door1020in its open position, following entry of a cut sandwich into guide1010, such to enable the cut sandwich to enter its individual sandwich bag1060. When guide door1020is open, the cut sandwich, e.g., sandwich1100, which comprises sandwich pocket1101, may easily slide or fall into already open sandwich bag1060.

Reference is now made toFIG. 12, which is a flow chart of operations performed by the packaging unit, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Flow chart1200may comprise the steps performed by packaging unit1000. The first step1202may comprise the guide door1020(FIG. 10) being in closed configuration. Then in step1204, the suction tube1080(FIG. 10), which is connected to pump1040, may be moved to stage1, which is moving towards the sandwich bags cartridge1050. In step1206, the suction pump1040is operated in order to attach sandwich bag1060to suction tube1080. Then step1208comprising operating suction tube1080at stage2begins, which is equivalent to starting opening of the sandwich bag1060. When suction pump1040is operated in step1210, the sandwich bag attached to suction tube1080begins to open. In step1212, guide door1020opens, to enable entry of the cut sandwich into the open sandwich bag1060. Suction tube1080is then moved to stage3during step1214, which is equivalent to detaching the sandwich bag from the sandwich bag cartridge1050. Suction pump1040is then operated in step1216, causing the sandwich bag1060to disconnect itself from the sandwich bag cartridge1050, such to provide an individual package per the cut sandwich. Suction pump1040is then closed in step1218, awaiting cutting of a new sandwich, which means the packaging process will begin all over again, in step1202.

Reference is now made to13A-13C which are schematic illustrations of a back-side view, a perspective side view, and a front-side view, respectively, of a packaging unit for packaging a cut sandwich, according to another embodiment of the disclosure. Sandwich packaging unit1300illustrates an example of a sandwich packaging unit in addition to unit1000. Packaging unit1300may comprise a cartridge of sandwich bags (not shown), which may be positioned on tray1370. The sandwich bags' cartridge may comprise sandwich bags that are connected to each other only, on one side of the opening end of each bag (e.g., by perforation). That is, if air would be blown onto the first bag that is attached to the cartridge, the bag would open, while still being attached to the rest of the bags of the cartridge. The first bag of the cartridge may be loaded in between two rollers; roller1310and roller1320, in the opening1330therebetween. Roller1310and roller1320may be attached to wall1385. As illustrated inFIG. 13B, on the other side of wall1385, the sandwich bag that enters through opening1330may exit through bag exit1390. Packaging unit1300may further comprise fan1340and fan1350, which may blow air into a bag that passed through bag exit1390. In some embodiments, air from fan1340and from fan1350may be configured to pass through space1380, which may be an extension to fans1340and1350in close proximity to wall1385, and the air may exit through an air exit1382, which may be located at least partially above bag exit1390, which one sandwich bag may pass through. Once a bag passes through bag exit1390, air may be blown by operation of fans1340and1350such to fill the sandwich bag with air flowing through air exit1382, which is located above the sandwich bag's opening. The flow of air into the sandwich bag's opening may assist in maintaining the sandwich bag open and ready for entrance of a cut sandwich into it.

In some embodiments, packaging unit1300may further comprise a distance sensor1395that may be located on wall1385, as illustrated inFIG. 13C. Distance sensor1395may sense presence of a sandwich bag and may sense when the bag is ready to accept a cut sandwich, since the sensing occurs on the side of wall1385where air exit1382is located.

In some embodiments, after the sandwich bag is filled with a sandwich that includes a sandwich pocket, the sandwich bag is to be cut and be separated from the sandwich bags' cartridge, so that a new sandwich bag may pass through bag exit1390in order to accept a new sandwich, and so on. In order to cut the sandwich bag off the cartridge, packaging unit1300may comprise a cutting knife1359. As illustrated inFIG. 13C, cutting knife1359may be connected to solenoid1355via member1357. A sandwich bag may pass through bag exit1390such that one side of the open end of the sandwich bag may be attached to the cartridge of sandwich bags, e.g., by perforation, while the other side of the open end of the sandwich bag may not be attached to the cartridge, thus allowing air from fans1340and1350to blow the sandwich bag open, such that the open end of the sandwich bag may be positioned below bag exit1390.

Once a sandwich enters the blown open sandwich bag, member1357may be pulled up towards the location of fans1340and1350by solenoid1355. Cutting knife1379is attached to member1357, for example, cutting knife1359may be located between the two ends of member1357. Therefore, once member1357is pulled up by solenoid1355then cutting knife1359may be pulled against the sandwich bag, at the location where the sandwich bag is attached to the sandwich bags' cartridge, thus cutting the area of attachment between the single sandwich bag and the sandwich bags' cartridge. In some embodiments, distance sensor1395may be configured to stop the turning of rollers1310and1320once the sandwich bag is detected by distance sensor1395, such that the area of attachment between the single sandwich bag and the sandwich bags' cartridge may be located in front of bag exit1390. This is important so that once solenoid1355pulls up cutting knife1359(via member1357), the area of attachment would be cut by cutting knife1359passing through the area of attachment.

Reference is now made toFIGS. 14A-14B, which schematically illustrate a bread loaf packaging tray, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Packaging tray1410may be configured to accept all of the cut sandwiches, whether separately packaged or not. Each cut sandwich, e.g., each of sandwiches1481,1483,1485,1487and1489, may fall either off the cutting unit (if not separately packaged) or off the sandwich packaging unit (if separately packaged), onto tray1410. All of the cut sandwiches may be arranged to form the entire bread loaf1480, which is the bread loaf that was cut into sandwiches, e.g., sandwiches1481,1483,1485,1487, and1489, and their respective sandwich pockets, e.g., sandwich pockets1482,1484,1486,1488, and1490. The order of sandwiches that is to form a whole bread loaf1480may be accomplished by causing the sandwiches to fall onto tray1410in a certain direction, typically front to back, such that the front end of each sandwich touches the back end of a previous sandwich. The arranged sandwiches may then be placed in one large package, for ease of carrying by the user.

In some embodiments, the first sandwich that falls onto tray1410lands on driver1420such that the front portion of the first sandwich is supported by driver1420, while the bottom end (which is perpendicular to the front portion) of the first sandwich is supported by tray1410. Each of the rest of the sandwiches fall onto previous sandwiches, while all of the sandwiches are supported by driver1420from their front end (or cross section), while being supported from their bottom end by tray1410. Driver1420may move backwards along tray1410each time a new sandwich falls onto try1410, in order to provide space along tray1410for a new sandwich to fall onto. When all the sandwiches are accumulated onto tray1410and onto driver1420, tray1410may be pushed into a large package that is configured to fit the entire sandwiches. Driver1420may then provide the final push such that all of the cut sandwiches enter, the large package while tray1410is pulled back to exit the large package, such that only the sandwiches are kept inside the one large package.

In some embodiments, tray1410may move along rods1412and1414, which may be positioned on base1401. As explained above, tray1410may be pushed forward into the package or may be pulled back to exit the package, all of which movement may be accomplished by sliding back and forth along rods1412and1414. Motor1430may be connected to tray1410such to provide power for such motion of tray1410along rods1412and1414.

In some embodiments, driver1420may be connected to base1440via rod1442, such that driver1420may slide along rod1442on both directions, e.g., backward and forward. Motor1450may provide power to such motion of driver1420along rod1442.

Reference is now made toFIG. 14C, which schematically illustrate the entire bread loaf packaging unit1400, according to an embodiment of the disclosure, which some of it was illustrated inFIGS. 14A-14Bas described above. In some embodiments, following the separately packaging of each single sandwich as performed by packaging unit1300(FIGS. 13A-13C), all the separate packages accumulate along tray1401, while being supported by driver1420from their bottom side. Driver1420is configured to retract when a new sandwich drops onto it. After all the bread loaf is cut into sandwiches, and measuring unit (e.g., measuring unit500,FIGS. 6A-6D) detects no object, i.e., bread within it, then a bread loaf sized sandwich bag may be opened in order to accept all the cut sandwiches into it. In order to open a new bread loaf sized sandwich bag, at least one fan1450may blow air into such bag. However, in some embodiments, the brad loaf sized bag may be too heavy to open simply by blowing air into it. Therefore, assistance may be acquired by motion of handle1447. In some embodiments, handle1447may comprise a round shape, though in other embodiments handle1447may comprise other shapes. Handle1447may be pushed by arm1445such to provide support to the bag being blown with air from at least one fan1450. Handle1447may support the bread loaf bag by supporting it and straightening it with respect to the outlet1455of air from fan1450. When handle1447supports and straightens the bread loaf bag, the air blown by at least one fan1450may suffice to fill the entire bread loaf bag, which now properly faces outlet1455, with air. Driver1420may then push the bread loaf (comprising sandwiches, whether or not separately packaged) into the open air filled bread loaf bag. The force of the push of driver1420may, in some embodiments, be strong enough such to tear the bread loaf bag off the bread loaf bags' cartridge, once all the sandwiches entered the bread loaf bag. Immediately following entry of all sandwiches into the bread loaf bag and tear of the bag from its cartridge, the entire packaged bread loaf drops on top of tray1441, due to gravity forces. The packaged bread loaf continues to slide on top of tray1441until it exits system100, ready to be collected by a customer or user of system100.

Reference is now made toFIGS. 15A-15B, which schematically illustrate a bread loaf packaging tray, according to another embodiment of the disclosure. Packaging tray1510may be configured to accept all cut sandwiches whether separately packaged or not. Each cut sandwich may fall either off the cutting unit (if not separately packaged) or off the sandwich packaging unit (if separately packaged), onto tray1510. All of the cut sandwiches may be arranged along tray1510to form the entire bread loaf, which is the bread loaf that was cut into sandwiches and sandwich pockets.

In some embodiments, tray1510may comprise a driver1520, which may move along tray1510via a tunnel1532. Tray1510may be connected to a base1501via nut1503that may be screwed/unscrewed along longitudinal screw1502. The motion of nut1503along screw1502may be operated by motor1505. When nut1503is screwed forward along screw1502, then tray1510is moved forward towards package or bag1540(FIG. 15B). When nut1503is unscrewed backwards, then tray1510is moved backwards away from package1540.

As illustrated inFIG. 15B, a large package1540that is to fit all cut sandwiches, which form the entire bread loaf, may be opened by various means, e.g., suction via suction tubes1550, or through air blown by fans (not shown). Other means of opening package or bag1540may be used. Once package1540is opened, tray1510, which may be loaded with the entirely cut bread loaf, may be pushed forward by motion of nut1503forward along screw1502, such to place the bread loaf that is cut into sandwiches with sandwich pockets, into bag1540. Driver1520may then be operated by springs1522to move forward towards bag1540, and continue to push the cut brad loaf into bag1540. Once the entire cut sandwiches are inserted into package1540, tray1510may be pulled back by backward motion of nut1503along screw1502, in order to allow tray1510to exit from within package1540, and thus leave only the bread loaf cut into sandwiches with sandwich pockets, to stay within package1540.

It should be appreciated that the above described methods and apparatus may be varied in many ways, including omitting or adding steps, changing the order of steps and the type of devices used. It should be appreciated that different features may be combined in different ways. In particular, not all the features shown above in a particular embodiment are necessary in every embodiment of the disclosure. Further combinations of the above features are also considered to be within the scope of some embodiments of the disclosure. It will also be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the present disclosure is not limited to what has been particularly shown and described hereinabove.