Abstract:
Provided is poultry processing equipment and more particularly, an improved evisceration device and subassemblies thereof for removing organs from a membrane-covered socket in the body cavity of a poultry carcass, such as the lungs.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application is a nonprovisional patent application, which claims priority from Provisional Application No. 61/022,923, filed Jan. 23, 2008, and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    1. Field of the Invention 
         [0003]    The present invention relate generally to poultry processing equipment and more particularly, to an improved evisceration device for removing organs from a membrane-covered socket in the body cavity of a poultry carcass, such as the lungs 
         [0004]    2. Prior Art 
         [0005]    During the slaughtering of poultry for processing into food, the internal organs, such as the kidneys and lungs, and in particular lungs, are required to be removed from the carcass as well as kidneys in some jurisdictions. Accordingly the lungs and or kidneys must be removed completely, otherwise there is product rejection and/or a need for reprocessing of that carcass. 
         [0006]    Typically there is one mode of removing the lungs and or kidneys of poultry that have been utilized by the poultry processing industry. This mode is that the carcass is moved through a machine conveyed by means of a shackle suspended from an overhead track, the poultry is suspended neck down by means of the tarsal joints of the legs through two loops formed in the shackle. The carcass is conveyed through a machine consisting of plurality of suction modules, the modules are typically moved in and out of the poultry cavities by means of a cam follower which rides on as the carcass is conveyed through the machine a suction module lowers into the carcass. As the carcass travels around the machine, suction is turned on for a period of time and turned off at a determined point. The module exits the carcass at approximately 180 degrees from where it enters the carcass. 
       BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0007]    The long-standing but heretofore unfulfilled need for an innovation that overcomes the limitations of the prior art is now met by a new, useful, and nonobvious invention. 
         [0008]    The following summary is not an extensive overview and is not intended to identify key or critical elements of the apparatuses, methods, systems, processes, and the like, or to delineate the scope of such elements. This Summary provides a conceptual introduction in a simplified form as a prelude to the more-detailed description that follows. 
         [0009]    In one embodiment of the present invention, the present invention provides a poultry processing method of withdrawing organs from the interior of the upwardly directed chest cavities of a plurality of birds being conveyed on hangars, the method comprising the steps of: A) conveying the birds along a path; B) for each one of the plurality of birds, inserting an elongate cleaning module portion downwardly into the chest cavity of the one bird, the cleaning module portion including a fluid supply port in communication with a pressurized liquid and a vacuum cavity in communication with a vacuum source; C) dispensing liquid from the fluid supply port into the chest cavity of the one bird; D) withdrawing an organ portion from the chest cavity of the one bird through the vacuum cavity along with the liquid with the assistance of the communicated vacuum; and E) withdrawing the elongate cleaning module portion. 
         [0010]    Another embodiment of the present invention provides a poultry processing method of withdrawing organs from the interior of the upwardly directed chest cavities of a plurality of birds being conveyed on hangars, the method comprising the steps of: A) conveying the birds along a path; B) for each one of the plurality of birds, inserting the lower portion of an elongate cleaning module portion downwardly into the chest cavity of the one bird, the cleaning module portion including a vacuum cavity in communication with a vacuum source, the vacuum source being capable of being selectively activated and deactivated; C) withdrawing a first organ portion from the chest cavity of the one bird through the vacuum cavity with the assistance of the communicated vacuum while the vacuum is activated; D) at least partially deactivating and reactivating the vacuum while the elongate cleaning module portion is still in the chest cavity of the one bird; E) subsequent to Step “D”, withdrawing a second organ portion from the chest cavity of the one bird through the vacuum cavity with the assistance of the communicated vacuum; and D) withdrawing the elongate cleaning module portion from the chest cavity of the one bird. 
         [0011]    Another embodiment of the present invention provides a poultry processing apparatus for withdrawing organs from the interior of the chest cavities of birds being sequentially conveyed along a processing path on hangars attached to a hangar chain driving a hangar chain sprocket rotating about an axis, the apparatus including: a base frame; a valve camming module above and attached relative to frame; an inner manifold above and attached relative to valve camming module; an elongate shaft extending generally vertically above and having its lower end attached relative to the inner manifold, the shaft having a central shaft axis substantially parallel to the chain sprocket axis; a cleaning module camming drum fixed relative to the elongate shaft and including a nonlinear cam channel; a valve manifold rotatably mounted relative to the inner manifold generally about the central shaft axis, the valve manifold including a plurality of fluid ports; a slide bar cage assembly including a plurality of substantially parallel slide bars, the slide bar cage assembly above and attached relative to the valve manifold such that the slide bar cage assembly and the valve manifold can rotate together about the central shaft axis; a drive connection between the slide bar cage assembly and the hangar chain sprocket such that the hangar chain sprocket, the slide bar cage assembly, and the valve manifold rotate at the same rotational speed; a plurality of cleaning modules configured to index up and down on corresponding ones of the slide bars in response to engagement with the cam channel such that a lower portion of each of the cleaning modules can be partially placed within the chest cavity of a corresponding bird; and fluid connection lines intermediate the fluid ports of the valve manifold and the cleaning modules such that fluid communication is possible between the lower portion of each of the cleaning modules and the chest cavity of a corresponding bird during rotation of the hangar chain sprocket. 
         [0012]    Another embodiment of the present invention provides a poultry processing method of withdrawing organs from the interior of the upwardly directed chest cavities of a plurality of birds being conveyed on hangars, the method comprising the steps of: A) providing a cleaning module assembly itself including 1) a sliding block configured to index up and down such that the module goes partially in and out of a bird cavity; 2) an elongate down tube rigidly extending downwardly from the sliding block but being selectively rotatable relative to the sliding block about its longitudinal central axis; and 3) a fluid transfer head for being placed in one of the chest cavities, the head attached to the down tube; B) processing a first plurality of birds with the elongate down tube in a first position; C) rotating the elongate down tube to a second rotated position being substantially 180 degrees rotated about the longitudinal axis relative to the first position; and D) processing a second plurality of birds with the elongate down tube to a second rotated position, such that the orientation of the fluid transfer head is reversed  180  relative to its position during step “B”. 
         [0013]    Another embodiment of the present invention provides a poultry processing cleaning module assembly itself including 1) a sliding block configured to index up and down such that the module goes partially in and out of a bird cavity; 2) an elongate down tube rigidly extending downwardly from the sliding block; and 3) a fluid transfer head for being placed in one of the chest cavities, the head attached to the down tube and including at least vacuum orifices, each orifice having a plurality of replaceable scrub elements mounted about its periphery. 
         [0014]    Another embodiment of the present invention provides a poultry processing cleaning module assembly for use with a bird having a cavity, the module itself including: 1) a sliding block configured to index up and down such that the module goes partially in and out of a bird cavity; 2) an elongate down tube rigidly extending downwardly from the sliding block; and 3) a fluid transfer head including two separate segments movable relative to each other and the down tube. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING(S) 
         [0015]      FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a bird cleaning apparatus  10 . It should be understood that this view does not show various connecting hoses which supply cleaning liquid and vacuum to the module assemblies  400 . 
           [0016]      FIG. 2  is a view of the apparatus shown in  FIG. 1 , except that this is a side plan elevational view. It should be understood that this view does not show various connecting hoses which supply cleaning liquid and vacuum to the module assemblies  400 . 
           [0017]      FIG. 3  is a view similar to that of  FIG. 2 , except that a cross-section has been taken along line  3 - 3  of  FIG. 2 . It should be understood that this view does not show various connecting hoses which supply cleaning liquid and vacuum to the module assemblies  400 . 
           [0018]      FIG. 4  is an exploded view of the lower fluid routing assembly  200  according to the present invention. 
           [0019]      FIG. 5  is a partial view generally the same as  FIG. 3  except that only certain lower elements are shown, and many of these elements are in cross-section. This view shows the paths of the vacuum and the liquid (water) from external sources to the assemblies  400 . 
           [0020]      FIG. 6  is a partial side elevational view showing a bird  5  in a dotted line. 
           [0021]      FIG. 7  is an isolated perspective view of the riding flange connecting pipe  210 . The flanged connecting Pipe  210  includes a tubular body  212 , an upper flange  213 , and a lower flange  214 . 
           [0022]      FIG. 8  is a top elevational view of the flanged connecting pipe  210  of Figure F. 
           [0023]      FIG. 9  is a side elevational view of the flange connecting pipe  210 . 
           [0024]      FIG. 10  is an isolated perspective view of the inner manifold  220  according to one of the present inventions. This view is generally of the top of the device. 
           [0025]      FIG. 11  is another perspective view of the inner manifold  220 , viewing the underside of the inner manifold  220 . 
           [0026]      FIG. 12  is an isolated perspective view of the valve manifold  240  according to the present invention. 
           [0027]      FIG. 13  is an partial perspective view of the valve manifold  240  according to the present invention shown in  FIG. 12 . 
           [0028]      FIG. 14  is a top plan view of the valve manifold  240 . 
           [0029]      FIG. 15  is a bottom plan elevational view of the valve manifold  240 . 
           [0030]      FIG. 16  shows two views of a valve manifold connector plate  260  according to one embodiment of the present invention. The top left view is a top elevational view, where as the view further to the bottom and right is a perspective view. This may be seen, this valve manifold connector plate  260  is generally plate-like in its configuration. 
           [0031]      FIG. 17  is an isolated perspective view of the module camming drum  166 , showing the underside of the drum, namely the side that would face the floor. 
           [0032]      FIG. 18  shows three different side elevational views of the module camming drum  166 , the differences due to different rotational positions about the central shaft axis. 
           [0033]      FIG. 19  is a bottom plan view of the module camming drum  160 . 
           [0034]      FIG. 20  is a top plan view of the module camming drum  160 . 
           [0035]      FIG. 21  is a side elevational cross-sectional view of a slide valve assembly  360  according to one of the present inventions, with the cross section being taken along line  21 - 21  of  FIG. 22 . 
           [0036]      FIG. 22  L is an “outside” (looking towards the shaft) elevational view of a slide valve assembly  360  according to the present invention. 
           [0037]      FIG. 23  is an exploded view of the slide valve assembly  360 . 
           [0038]      FIG. 24  is a perspective view of a module assembly  400 . 
           [0039]      FIG. 25  is an “inside” (as viewed from the central shaft) elevational view of a slide valve assembly  360  according to the present invention. 
           [0040]      FIG. 26  is a side elevational cross-sectional view of the module  400  shown in  FIGS. 24 and 25 . 
           [0041]      FIG. 27  is a side cross-sectional view similar to  FIG. 26  but taken along a different cross section. 
           [0042]      FIG. 28  is a partial view showing an exemplary scrub element  442 , put in place in the module assembly  400 . 
           [0043]      FIG. 29  is an isolated view of an exemplary scrub element  442 . 
           [0044]      FIG. 30  is an illustrative view showing the relative movements of the vacuum head as they go through the cam channel  166  of the module camming drum  160  as well as the relative movements at the valves as they are actuated by the valve manifold. As may be seen, there are several “jogs” of the modules  400  (or 500) while in the bird. These “jogs” are not shown in  FIGS. 1-2 , and should be considered an alternate module “jog” embodiment. Also shown are upper camming rails  161 , lower camming rails  164 , and cam channel  166 . 
           [0045]      FIG. 31  is a perspective view of a module assembly  500 , which is different from the module assembly  400  but interchangeable. 
           [0046]      FIG. 32  is an inside elevational view of the module assembly  500 . 
           [0047]      FIG. 33  is an isolated view of the lower portion of  500 . 
           [0048]      FIG. 34  is an exploded view of the module  500 . 
           [0049]      FIG. 35  is a collection of views of part of the module  500 . 
           [0050]      FIG. 36  is an isolated view of the swivel seal retainer  532 . 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0051]    In describing the preferred and selected alternate embodiments of the present invention, as illustrated in the figures, specific terminology is employed for the sake of clarity. The invention, however, is not intended to be limited to the specific terminology so selected, and it is to be understood that each specific element includes all technical equivalents that operate in a similar manner to accomplish similar functions. 
         [0052]    The present invention now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all embodiments of the inventions are shown. Indeed, these inventions may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. If an item is noted as being referenced in a drawing, this does not mean the item is not shown in another drawing. 
         [0053]    Bird Cleaning Apparatus  10  Generally 
         [0054]    Reference is first made to  FIG. 1 , which shows a bird cleaning apparatus  10  for removing interior components such as the lungs and/or kidneys of poultry or other animals  5 . This apparatus  10  includes the following general elements:
       track assembly  20     shaft  100     cleaning assembly  110     lower fluid routing assembly  200     module assemblies  400         
 
         [0060]    Generally described, the bird cleaning apparatus  10  accepts poultry (a.k.a. “bird” elements  5  being conveyed along the track assembly  20 , inserts and removes the lower ends of module assemblies  400  (which could also be embodiment  500 ) into and from the chest cavities of the poultry elements  5  (hereinafter “birds”  5 ) to facilitate the removal of lungs and other internal organs therefrom by suction provided by vacuum. The coordination of the placement of the module assemblies  400  into and out of the poultry elements  5  as they are conveyed along the track assembly  20  is assisted with the use of cleaning assembly  110 . The module assemblies  400  are supplied with vacuum and cleaning water by the lower fluid routing assembly  200 . The module assemblies  400  are supplied with vacuum at prescribed periods in order to both conserve vacuum as well as to provide an advantageous periodic vacuum “surge”, discussed later. 
         [0061]    For purposes of this description, the rotational axis of the various components around the central shaft of the device will be assumed to be substantially vertical, although this is only a relative term for purposes of discussion. 
         [0062]    Track Assembly  20   
         [0063]    Reference is made for example to  FIG. 1 . Track assembly  20  preferably comprises hangar guide  30 , sprocket wheel  40  and conventional hangers  50 , wherein hangers  50  comprise loops  60  preferably disposed at the bottom thereof. Hangar guide  60  is shown which provide guidance for the hangars as they go along their path around the device  10 . Chain connecting the hangars  50  is not shown, but is such as that well known in the art. This is the chain that drives the sprocket wheel  40 . 
         [0064]    The track  30  is substantially continuous and is such as known in the art. The hangar  50  (a.k.a., shackles) are likewise well known in the art as devices which transport chicken or other poultry via a processing plant under its own motive force. Reference is made to  FIG. 6  which shows an exemplary bird  5  placed within a hangar, with its tarsal joints captured in the loops as known in the art. 
         [0065]    It should be understood that the track  30  likewise provides the motive force to provide the various rotational and linear operations of the apparatus  10 , except for any movements which might be specifically noted to be provided by the vacuum or cleaning liquids described later. 
         [0066]    The sprocket wheel  40  is such as that known in the art, to the extent it is rotatably mounted about a substantially vertical axis by external means (not shown), such that the sprocket wheel  40  can continue to rotated even if the apparatus  10  is withdrawn downwardly and away from the sprocket wheel for cleaning and/or maintenance as discussed later in this application. This substantially vertical axis is preferably aligned with the central shaft axis of the apparatus  10  as described further below. 
         [0067]    The sprocket wheel may rotate at various speeds as needed, but a “sprocket speed” will be referenced in this discussion as the speed at which the sprocket is rotating. As various elements rotate or move in sync with the sprocket, they may be referenced as moving at “sprocket speed”. 
         [0068]    A bearing assembly  41  (see  FIGS. 1 and 3 ) provides lateral support to the upper end of the shaft  100  described below, while still allowing the upper end of the shaft  100  to be moved downwardly relative to the bearing assembly  41 . 
         [0069]    Shaft  100   
         [0070]    The shaft  100  includes an upper tip portion which may be viewed in  FIG. 1 , and is configured to be slid in and out of the bearing assembly  41  which is attached relative to the sprocket wheel  40  as shown in  FIG. 1 . This allows the upper end of the shaft  100  to be withdrawn downwardly relative to the bearing assembly  41  for cleaning and/or service of the apparatus  10 . 
         [0071]    The shaft  100  does not rotate. As discussed in detail below it provides rotational support for various elements later discussed. It is bolted at its bottom by bolt  101  (see  FIG. 4 ) to the inner manifold  220  discussed below. 
         [0072]    For purposes of later discussion, a “central shaft axis” is herein defined as the central longitudinal axis of the shaft, which in one preferred embodiment is substantially vertical. It will be seen that various components of this device rotate about this axis. 
         [0073]    Cleaning Assembly  110   
         [0074]    The cleaning assembly  110  includes the following general elements: 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
               
             
           
               
                   
               
             
             
               
                 upper plate 120 
                 (rotates with sprocket about central shaft axis) 
               
               
                 Timing plate 121 
                 (rotates with sprocket about central shaft axis) 
               
               
                 Drive pins 122 
                 (rotate with sprocket about central shaft axis) 
               
               
                 guide rails 130 
                 (rotate with sprocket about central shaft axis) 
               
               
                 lower plate 140 
                 (rotates with sprocket about central shaft axis) 
               
               
                 module camming drum 
                 (stationary) 
               
               
                 160 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0075]    The general function of the cleaning assembly is to support and coordinate placement of the wand assemblies  300  into and out of the poultry elements  5  as they are conveyed along the track assembly  20 . Generally described, the cleaning assembly provides guidance for the wand assemblies  300  described later in this application such that a desired portion of each of the wand assemblies  300  can be inserted into the chest cavity of a bird  5  according to a predetermined timing and placement protocol. 
         [0076]    The upper plate  120 , guide rails  130 , and lower plate  140  are mounted together as a substantially rigid “cagelike” subassembly (which may be referenced as a “slide bar cage assembly” which rotates with the sprocket about the central shaft axis. The upper and lower plates  120 ,  140 , are substantially platelike and have their major planar surfaces substantially horizontal when installed. 
         [0077]    The guide rails  130  are elongate and cylindrical, and in the preferred embodiment are mounted in set of parallel pairs, with each pair associated with a corresponding one module assembly  400 . As may be understood, these pairs of guide rails  130  provide vertical paths for the module assemblies  400  to move relative thereto, while at the same time the guide rails  130  themselves are rotating about the central shaft axis of the device  10 , thus moving the module assemblies  400  along a path which both goes up and down while in coordination with the birds  5  as they pass along a portion of their path. 
         [0078]    The upper plate  120  is rotatably supported relative to the shaft by an upper plate bearing assembly  123 . The upper plate bearing assembly  123  provides vertical positioning of the upper plate on the central shaft  100 , and also provides a rotational bearing about the central shaft axis. 
         [0079]    The lower plate  140  includes a plurality of loop openings  142 , and is rotatably supported relative to the shaft by a lower plate bearing assembly  143 . These loop openings  142  provide location for conveyed birds as known in the art, and in the present invention the head and down pipe of the modules pass into and out of these loops as they index downwardly and upwardly. The lower plate bearing assembly  143  provides vertical positioning of the upper plate on the central shaft  100 , and also provides a rotational bearing about the central shaft axis. 
         [0080]    Lower plate  140  is disposed atop and is connected to connecting pipe  210 , and causes connecting pipe  210  to rotate as described later. 
         [0081]    A timing plate  121  is rigidly mounted atop the upper mounting plate  120  and rotates therewith. This timing plate  121  is configured to allow for the timing between the sprocket wheel  40  and the rotating upper plate  120 , guide rails  130 , lower plate  140 , and most importantly the wand assemblies  300 , such that the hangars remain disposed in adjacent position to module assemblies  400  as hangers  50  traverse around cleaning assembly  110 . Although the adjustment feature could be provided in many ways, one preferred way is to provide headed fasteners having engaging ends passing through holes in the timing plate  140 , through adjustment slots (not shown) in the upper plate  120 , and which are engaged by captured nuts or the like underneath and against the upper plate. The goal is to allow for torque to be transferred from the upper plate  121  to the timing plate  121  while allowing occasional angular adjustment to address timing. 
         [0082]    Rigidly attached atop the timing plate  121  are two drive pins  122  which allow the sprocket wheel to drive the timing plate, and this drive other elements such as  120 ,  130 ,  140  as well at the same rotational speed. The lower ends of each of the drive pins  122  are rigidly attached relate to the timing plate  121 ; the upper ends of each of the drive pins  122  slidably engage vertical holes spaced 180 degrees from each other. As may be understood, this allows the top ends of the drive pins  122  to become disengaged with the sprocket as the shaft  100  is withdrawn downwardly is lowered for maintenance or cleaning purposes of the device  10  as described elsewhere. 
         [0083]    The stationary module camming drum  160  is stationary and includes upper camming rails  162  and lower camming rails  164 , which combine with the side of the drum to define a cam channel  166 . The stationary module camming drum  160  is mounted relative to the shaft by a centrally located hub  161  shown in  FIG. 3 , which is secured to the shaft by two bolts (not shown) 180 degrees apart. Thus any rotation (not during bird processing but during adjustment of the apparatus) of the shaft  100  causes rotation of the drum  160  and vice versa. 
         [0084]    The function of the stationary module camming drum  160  is to define a path to accept and guide cam rollers  420  associated with the module assemblies  400  to cause the module assemblies to move up and down on their respective guide rails  130 , thus causing the vacuum/flush and vacuum heads  440  to go in and out of the bird cavities. 
         [0085]    Lower Fluid Routing Assembly  200   
         [0086]    The lower fluid routing assembly  200  includes the following major elements:
       Flanged Connecting Pipe  210     Inner manifold  220  (x 800 )   Valve manifold  240  (x 180 )   Valve Manifold Connector Plate  260     Valve Camming Drum  270  (x 135 )   Support Columns  280     Exhaust Elbow  300     Foot Plate  310     Connecting Bolts  320     Indexing Shaft  330     Vacuum Hoses  340  (x 190 )   Cleaning liquid Hoses  350     Slide Valve Assemblies  360  (x 185 )       
 
         [0100]    Flanged Connecting Pipe  210   
         [0101]    The flanged connecting Pipe  210  includes a tubular body  212 , an upper flange  213 , and a lower flange  214 . 
         [0102]    The upper flange  213  attaches the underside of the lower plate  120 . 
         [0103]    The lower flange  214  attaches to the upper side of the valve manifold  240 . 
         [0104]    The flange connecting pipe  210  provides a rigid connection between the lower plate  120  and the valve manifold  240 , and rotates along with them at product supply chain sprocket speed. 
         [0105]    Inner Manifold  220   
         [0106]    The inner manifold  220  is stationary during normal operation, fits partially within the valve manifold  240  (which rotates), and is supported by and bolted to the top of the valve camming drum  270 . It is bolted by bolt  101  (see  FIG. 4 ) to the lower end of shaft  100 . 
         [0107]    As an example, it is shown in isolation in  FIGS. 10 and 11 , is shown as part of an exploded views of the lower fluid routing assembly  200  in  FIG. 4 , and is installed in  FIGS. 3 and 5 . 
         [0108]    The general function of the inner manifold  220  is to supply the valve manifold  240  with vacuum and cleaning liquid when the valve manifold  240  needs it. 
         [0109]    The inner manifold  200  includes the following elements and features:
       Top Wall  221     Cylindrical Side Wall  222     Side Vacuum Orifice  224     Side Liquid Orifice  225     Crescent Slot  226     Boss  227     Blind Bore Hole  228     Adjustment Slot  229     Mounting Holes  231     Lower Facing Cavity  233     Liquid Entry Hole  235         
 
         [0121]    The top wall  221  is solid, and supports the cylindrical boss  227  atop it. The cylindrical boss includes a blind bore hole  228  which is configured to accept the lower end of the shaft  100 . An adjustment slot  229  is provided which accepts a bolt (not shown) which fixes the boss  227  relative to the shaft  100  while allowing manual adjustment therebetween. 
         [0122]    The cylindrical side wall  222  extends downwardly from the outer edges of the top wall  221 . It encloses a lower facing cavity  233 , which is in continuous vacuum during normal operation of the apparatus  10 . 
         [0123]    There are two slotlike orifices in the cylindrical side wall  222 , a side vacuum orifice  224  and a side liquid orifice  225 . The side vacuum orifice  224  communicates within the generally cylindrical lower facing cavity  233 , such the vacuum can be communicated from central bore of the valve camming drum  270 . The side vacuum orifice  224  supplies vacuum when needed to the vacuum bores  242  in the valve manifold  240 . 
         [0124]    The side liquid orifice  225  communicates with liquid entry hole  235  which is in the bottom of the inner manifold  220 . The side liquid orifice  225  supplies liquid under pressure when needed to the liquid bores  244  in the valve manifold  240 . 
         [0125]    The mounting holes  231  accept the ends of connecting bolts  320 , which as noted elsewhere extend through the valve camming drum  270  and the exhaust elbow  300 , and attach the inner manifold  200 , valve camming drum  270 , and exhaust elbow  300  together. 
         [0126]    The crescent slot provides a path from the cavity  233  to the side vacuum orifice  224 . 
         [0127]    Valve Manifold  240   
         [0128]    Valve manifold  240  in its preferred embodiment rotates at sprocket speed. Its general function is to communicate vacuum and pressurized fluid to the various module assemblies  300  at selected times. As may be understood, it communicates fluids generally; air (such as under vacuum) and liquid are both considered fluids in this application. 
         [0129]    The valve manifold  240  includes the following elements and features:
       Vacuum Bores  242     Liquid Bores  244     Valve Slots  244     Upper Mounting Holes  246     Lower Mounting Holes  248         
 
         [0135]    There are as many vacuum bores  242  as there are associated module assemblies  400 . The vacuum bores  242  are each radially oriented relative to the central shaft axis and each includes an associated valve assembly  360  which selectively provides a valving function to completely or partially block the passage through the bore. These valve assemblies  360  are actuated by the valve camming drum  270  as described elsewhere. The vacuum bores  242  extend from inner ports which face the central shaft axis to outer ports which face radially from the central shaft axis. When a given inner port of a vacuum bores  242  is in line with the side vacuum orifice  224  of the inner manifold (which is in continuous vacuum), they communicate and vacuum is supplied to that inner port. This happens once per sprocket rotation. Whether or not vacuum is supplied to the module assemblies depends if the associated valve is open. 
         [0136]    Under one preferred embodiment more than one inner port (up to four or more) of a vacuum bores  242  is in line with the side vacuum orifice  224  of the inner manifold at any given time due to the length of the orifice  224 . 
         [0137]    There are as many liquid bores  244  as there are associated module assemblies  400 . The liquid bores  244  are each radially oriented relative to the central shaft axis. They are not affected by the valve assemblies  360 . The liquid bores  244  extend from inner ports which face the central shaft axis to outer ports which face radially from the central shaft axis. When a given inner port of the liquid bores  244  is in line with the side liquid orifice  225  of the inner manifold (which is in continuous supply of liquid under pressure), they communicate and liquid is supplied to the inner port and on to the associated module assembly  300 . This happens once per sprocket rotation. 
         [0138]    Under one preferred embodiment more than one (up to four or more is possible) inner port of the liquid bores  244  is in line with the side liquid orifice  225  of the inner manifold at any given time due to the length of the orifice  225 . 
         [0139]    Valve slots  244  extend into the bottom side of the valve manifold  240  but not all the way through. They provide a sliding guide for the bodies of the valve assemblies  360  as described elsewhere. 
         [0140]    Upper mounting holes  246  are in the upper surface to allow for bolts to fasten the valve manifold  240  to the flanged connecting pipe  240 . As the flanged connecting pipe  240  rotates at sprocket speed, it rotates the valve manifold at sprocket speed. 
         [0141]    Lower mounting holes  248  are in the lower surface to allow for bolts to fasten the valve manifold  240  to the valve manifold connector plate  260 . As the valve manifold  240  rotates at sprocket speed, it rotates the valve manifold connector plate  260 . The lower side of the valve manifold  240  is slightly recessed to accept the thickness of the valve manifold connector plate  260 . 
         [0142]    As the valve manifold  240  rotates relative to the stationary inner manifold  220  (which partially fits inside its inner bore) when the vacuum bores line up with the associated orifice in the inner manifold, vacuum communication through the associated lines is allowed to the module assemblies if the associated valves allow it. When the liquid bores line up with the associated orifice in the inner manifold, liquid communication is allowed to the module assemblies regardless of valve positions. 
         [0143]    Valve Manifold Connector Plate  260   
         [0144]    The valve manifold connector plate  260  is configured to provide a mounting surface for the valve assemblies  360 . It is shown in two views of isolation in  FIG. 16  and is shown as part of an exploded view of the lower fluid routing assembly  200  in  FIG. 4 . Due to its thin nature it does not show up well in the assembled views, but it should be understood as being installed within a recess in the lower surface of the valve manifold  240 . 
         [0145]    The valve manifold connector plate  260  includes valve clearance slots  261  valve mounting holes  262 , and plate mounting holes  264 . The valve mounting holes  262  accept fasteners to attach the valve assemblies  360  to the plate  260 . Valve clearance slots  261  allow clearance for the valve bodies. Plate mounting holes  264  accept fasteners to attach the plate  260  to the underside of the valve manifold  240 . The valve manifold connector plate  260  rotates with the valve manifold  240  at sprocket speed. 
         [0146]    Valve Camming Drum  270   
         [0147]    The valve camming drum  270  is shown in various views of isolation in  FIGS. 17-18  and is shown as part of an exploded view of the lower fluid routing assembly  200  in  FIG. 4 . It is shown in installed in for example  FIGS. 3 and 5 . 
         [0148]    The valve camming drum  270  provides a cam feature to activate the slide valve assemblies  360 . 
         [0149]    The valve camming drum  270  is supported on its underside by the four support columns  280 . It has bolted to its underside the exhaust elbow  300 . It supports the inner manifold  220 . It has a channel  276  which is defined in its outer circumferential side which is defined on top by an upper camming rail  272  and on bottom by a lower camming rail  274 . Column mounts  277  (counter bored holes) allow for mounting to the upper ends of the support columns  280 . 
         [0150]    Thru slots  278  accept connecting bolts  120  which as noted elsewhere extend through the valve camming drum  270  and the exhaust elbow  300 , and attach the inner manifold  200 , valve camming drum  270 , and exhaust elbow  300  together. This is to allow for adjustment. 
         [0151]    A liquid inlet hole  271  is configured to supply liquid to a through passageway that has the liquid inlet hole as its entry and the liquid outlet slot as is outlet. The liquid outlet slot  273  communicates with the liquid entry hole  235  of the inner manifold, and supplies cleaning liquid thereto. The liquid can be water or an anti-microbial solution. 
         [0152]    As noted above the valve camming drum  270  provides a cam feature to activate the slide valve assemblies  360 . In particular it causes the cam followers  369  of the valve assemblies  360  to move up and down as they move within its channel  276 , causing the valves bodies to slide up and down and close or open their associated vacuum passageways. 
         [0153]    Support Columns  280   
         [0154]    The support columns  280  (see  FIGS. 2 ,  3 ,  4  and  5 , for example) are elongate and rigid, and connect the foot plate  310  to the valve camming drum  270 . They support the valve camming drum  270 . Four are used in the example shown. 
         [0155]    Exhaust Elbow  300   
         [0156]    The exhaust elbow  300  (see  FIGS. 2 ,  3 ,  4  and  5 , for example) supplies suction from an external source such as known in the art, and allow for the passage therethrough and removal of organs and the like removed by the module assemblies  400  of the apparatus  100 . 
         [0157]    Foot Plate  310   
         [0158]    The floor plate  310  is attached to the bottom of the support columns  280 . It is supported by indexing shaft  330 . 
         [0159]    Connecting Bolts  320   
         [0160]    Connecting bolts  320  extend upwardly through the mounting flange of the exhaust elbow  300 , then through the valve camming drum  270  and then engage the inner manifold  200 , thus fixing the inner manifold  200 , valve camming drum  270 , and exhaust elbow  300  together. They are shown in several views but numbers in  FIGS. 4 and 5 . 
         [0161]    Indexing Shaft  330   
         [0162]    Indexing shaft can be raised and lowered to allow for the entire device to be lowered away for cleaning, by a known means of lifting such as by hydraulic or manual jacking as known in the art. Minor lifting or lower adjustments can also be provided to accommodate bird size. Smaller bird moves up, larger bird moves down. 
         [0163]    Vacuum Hoses  340   
         [0164]    There are as many vacuum hoses  340  as there are associated module assemblies  400 . Vacuum hoses  340  communicate vacuum between corresponding vacuum bores  242  of the valve manifold  240  and the vacuum orifices  414  of the module assemblies  400 . They are flexible to accommodate up-and-down indexing of the modules  400  and can be made of ribbed rubber hose or other suitable materials. 
         [0165]    Cleaning/Flushing Liquid Hoses  350   
         [0166]    There are as many cleaning liquid hoses  350  as there are associated module assemblies  400 . Cleaning liquid hoses  350  communicate vacuum between corresponding liquid bores  244  of the valve manifold  244  and the liquid intake orifices  416  of the module assemblies  400 . 
         [0167]    Slide Valve Assemblies  360   
         [0168]    There are as many slide valve assemblies  360  as there are associated module assemblies  400 . Slide valve assemblies  360  are configured to provide selective vacuum to their corresponding module assemblies  400 . They are mounted relative to the valve manifold  240  but are actuated by the valve camming module  270 . 
         [0169]    A slide valve assembly  360  is shown in isolation in  FIGS. 21 and 22 , and installed in  FIGS. 3 and 5 . A plurality are shown in  FIGS. 2 ,  6  and  30 . 
         [0170]    The slide valve assemblies  360  include the following elements and features:
       Valve Body  362     Slide Rod Mount  364     Bolts  365     Seal  366     Slide Valve Cam Follower  369         
 
         [0176]    The valve body  362  slides up and down to provide the valving of the associated vacuum bores  242  in the valve manifold  240 . The cam follower  369  is rotatably mounted relative to the valve body  362 . The slide rod mount  364  is mounted to the manifold connector plate  260  by bolts  365 . 
         [0177]    The slide valve assemblies  360  are configured to be installed such that all the cam followers  369  of all the slide valve assemblies  360  are within the channel  276  of the valve camming module  270  as shown in  FIGS. 2 ,  6  and  30 . As the channel moves up and down relative to the slide rod mount  364 , the valve body goes up and down and valving is caused. 
         [0178]    Path of the Vacuum 
         [0179]    The communication line providing vacuum from an external source to the module assemblies is now generally described. In reference to  FIG. 5 , the path of materials being withdrawn from within the birds will be described to illustrate the communication line of the vacuum. Beginning at the module assemblies  400 , the material enters the lower ends of the module assemblies, goes up through the downtube and end along the vacuum line  340 , into the valve manifold  240 . (Assuming the valve in that line is open.) Material continues into the inner manifold  220 , downwardly into the valve camming module  270 , and out through the exhaust elbow  300 . 
         [0180]    Path of the Flushing Liquid 
         [0181]    Cleaning liquid is supplied under pressure (which can be water) into the underside of the valve camming module  270 , generally vertically upwardly into the inner manifold  220 , then turns approximately 90 degrees outwardly and radially towards and into the valve manifold  240 , into a liquid line  350 , into the upper portion of the module assembly, whereupon it then passes downwardly down the outside of the module assembly  400  (relative to the shaft), then finally makes another 90 degree turn inwardly, and exits underneath the vacuum intake ports. 
         [0182]    Module Assemblies  400   
         [0183]    A plurality of module assemblies  400  are preferably disposed symmetrically about cleaning assembly  110 . 
         [0184]    Each module assembly  400  includes the following elements and features:
       Sliding Block  410 
           Bushings  412  ( 4 )   Vacuum Orifice  414     Liquid Intake Orifice  416     
           Cam Roller  420     Down Tube  430     Liquid Connection Tube  435     Flush and Vacuum Head  440 
           Scrub Elements  442     Vacuum Orifices  444  ( 2 )   Liquid Exit orifice  416     
               
 
         [0196]    The sliding block  410  slides up and down relative to the guide rails  130 . The sliding block  410  includes bushing  412 , a vacuum orifice  414 , and a liquid intake orifice  416 . Vacuum is supplied to the vacuum orifice  414  of the sliding block  410  by vacuum hoses  340 . Cleaning liquid is supplied to the liquid intake orifice  416  by a corresponding cleaning liquid supply hose  350 . ( FIG. 5 ). The cam roller  420  fits within the channel  276  of the valve camming drum  270 , and is indexed up and down thereby, as the drum  270  rotates. The down tube  430  extends rigidly downwardly from the sliding block  410 , and provides a vacuum passageway. A liquid connection tube  435  extends rigidly relative to the sliding block generally parallel to the down tube  430 . 
         [0197]    A flush and vacuum head  440  attaches to the lower ends of the down tube  430  and the liquid connection tube  435 , and receives vacuum, and liquid from the down tube  430  and the liquid connection tube  435 , respectively. The flush and vacuum head  440  includes scrub elements  442  (which are flexible rubber, urethane, or the like), vacuum orifices  444 , and a liquid exit orifice  416 . Liquid exits the liquid exit orifice  416 , and provides lubrication within the cavity as suction is being applied by the module assembly, which has been found to be an important feature of one of the present inventions. There are two vacuum orifices  440 , which merge immediately within the flush and vacuum head  440 . It may be seen that these two orifices correspond generally to the elongate/two-lung configuration of conventional poultry. 
         [0198]    Module Assembly  500  ( FIGS. 31-36 ) 
         [0199]    180 degree concept 
         [0200]    It should be noted that module assemblies  400  and  500  are interchangeable for purposes of this discussion. 
         [0201]    In the poultry processing industry there are two styles of hangars (shackles) used to convey poultry through the process of slaughter. One type is what is commonly referred to as a straight shackle. This style of shackle has loops that are straight and vertical in orientation, in the loops the tarsal joint of the poultry are placed. The other type of hangar is commonly referred to as a two piece shackle. This style has a vertical top section with a joint above the loops, the loops are made horizontal at the bottom of this assembly, the horizontal loops protrude a short distance to accommodate the tarsal joint and provide better manipulation of poultry as they are being processed in machinery. 
         [0202]    With the straight shackle it is best to have the breast side of the poultry face inward toward the central axis of the processing machine. This is due to how the tarsal joint is positioned as broken hocks can result if breast is facing outwardly away from the central shaft of the processing machine. 
         [0203]    With the two piece shackle it is advantageous to have the breast of the poultry face away from the central axis of the processing machine. The horizontal loops are also position in the direction of the breast. This provides for better cavity access of the poultry. 
         [0204]    Therefore there is a need for a lung removal (cleaning) machine to have a module that has a vacuum (suction) head that can be easily changed for the type of hangar being used in the processing of poultry. The Module assembly  500  as shown in  FIGS. 31-46  consist of the following a sliding Block  510  that contains vacuum orifices  514 , liquid orifice  516 , to which is connected cam roller assembly  520  to which is connected mounting screws  518  to which is connected bushings  512  through which guide rails pass through, to which ( 4 ) down tube  530  (vacuum tube) at its top portion has a flange a distance from its top end. 
         [0205]    This tube  530  is positioned through swivel seal retainer  532  (with a hole for the liquid conduit) that forms an axial channel with an exit hole for the acceptance of liquid conduit  535 . This channel is surrounded by a means of sealing. In the axial channel the exit is positioned in the bottom of the channel. The exit runs parallel with down tube  530  and liquid conduit  535 . In this exit, liquid conduit  535  is connected; liquid conduit  535  is connected to a central union  538  this forms a continuous conduit for liquid from sliding block  510  to central union  538  at which point the liquid exits. Retaining set screws  539  fasten liquid conduit  535  and down tube  530 . Flush and vacuum head segments  540  ( 2  in the embodiment shown) are connected with central union  538 . Slotted male intake fitting  542  connects with central union  538  between which a means of sealing is positioned. Slotted male intake fitting  542  is fastened by retaining set screws  539 . 
         [0206]    Segment body  541  has a slot  544  and central union  538  has a slot (not shown) that urethane spring  550  connects to. This forms a spring to provide a reciprocal movement about an axis formed by slotted male intake fitting  542  and central union  538  apply pressure to the cavity walls of the bird  5  as seen in  FIG. 6 . 
         [0207]    Dislodger  545  (which is flexible rubber, urethane, or the like), is connected to segment body  541  by slide tab  551  and snap tab  452 . Dislodger  545  functions to dislodge lungs and elements on the cavity wall of the bird  5  as it moves in and out of the cavity of the bird the dislodger is flexible. As module assembly  500  moves up dislodger  545  moves up the flexibility of the dislodger conforms to the irregular shape of the cavity of the bird. It also maintains reciprocal element from the nature of its flexibility. Liquid is caused to be passed through the module  500  into the cavity of the bird, this provides for vehicle of encapsulation of dislodged waste to be transported from the cavity of the bird into suction inlet opening  546  intakes waste material such as lungs and residual displaced tissue from previous process that have been left in the cavity of the bird ultimately being transferred as is the case in module  400 : to the exhaust elbow  300  and out. 
         [0208]    Alternate Module “Jog” Embodiment 
         [0209]    Reference is now made to  FIG. 30  to show an embodiment of the invention which provides a “jogging” of the module up and down while they are in the cavity. This feature allows for improve action of the modules. As may be seen, in the embodiment shown the module jogs up and down four times from its down most position before it finally is withdrawn. 
         [0210]    Various Advantages 
         [0211]    The configuration of the valves according to the present invention provides for a “surge” or “pulse” in vacuum, which is an advantage of the present invention. This surge or pulse prevents clogging, and allows for a buildup of vacuum by partially or completely closing the vacuum supply lines to the modules at varying stages through the field of engagement of the modules in the birds. This is not only provided by the general operation of the valves, but also by the “jogging” feature of the valves while the module is in the bird. 
         [0212]    The provision of cleaning or flushing fluid is another advantage provided herein. The addition of a liquid in the bird cavity provides improved suction action. 
         [0213]    The provision of the reversible lower portion of the modules  500  is another advantage. This allows for easy reversal to accommodate line changes. 
       CONCLUSION 
       [0214]    Many modifications and other embodiments of the inventions set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which these inventions pertain having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the inventions are not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation. 
       APPENDIX 
     Element List 
       [0000]    
       
           5  Poultry element (“bird”) 
         Bird Cleaning Apparatus  10   
           20  track assembly
       hangar guide  30     sprocket wheel  40 
           sprocket hub bearing assembly  41     
           hangars  50 
           loops  60     
             
           100  shaft 
           110  cleaning assembly 
       
     
         [0000]    
       
         
               
               
             
           
               
                   
               
             
             
               
                 upper plate 120 
                 (rotate with sprocket about central shaft axis) 
               
               
                 upper plate bearing 
               
               
                 assy 123 
               
               
                 Timing plate 121 
                 (rotate with sprocket about central shaft axis) 
               
               
                 Drive pins 122 
                 (rotate with sprocket about central shaft axis) 
               
               
                 guide rails 130 (x320) 
                 (rotate with sprocket about central shaft axis) 
               
               
                 lower plate 140 (x200) 
                 (rotate with sprocket about central shaft axis) 
               
               
                 loop openings 142 ( 
               
               
                 lower plate bearing 
               
               
                 assy 143 
               
               
                 Module Camming Drum 
                 (stationary) 
               
               
                 160 
               
               
                 Upper Camming Rails 
               
               
                 162 
               
               
                 Lower camming Rails 
               
               
                 164 
               
               
                 Cam Channel 166 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
       
         Lower Fluid Routing Assembly  200 
       Flanged Connecting Pipe  210 
           Body  212     Upper Flange  213     Lower Flange  214     
           Inner manifold  220 
           Top Wall  221     Cylindrical Side Wall  222     Side Vacuum Orifice  224     Side Liquid Orifice  225     Crescent Slot  226     Boss  227     Blind Bore Hole  228     Adjustment Slot  229     Mounting Holes  231     Lower Facing Cavity  233     Liquid Entry Hole  235     
           Valve Manifold  240 
           Vacuum Bores  242     Liquid Bores  244     Valve Slots  244     Upper Mounting Holes  246     Lower Mounting Holes  248     
           Valve Manifold Connector Plate  260 
           Valve Clearance Slots  261     
           Valve Mounting Holes  262 
           Plate Mounting Holes  264     
           Valve Camming Drum  270 
           Upper Camming Rail  272     Lower Camming Rail  274     Channel  276     Column Mounts  277     Column Mount Bolt Thru Holes  278     Thru Slots  279     Liquid inlet hole  271     Liquid outlet slot  273     
           Support Columns  280     Exhaust Elbow  300     Foot Plate  310 
           Foot plate bolts  312     
           Connecting Bolts  320     Indexing Shaft  330     Vacuum Hoses  340     Cleaning Liquid Hoses  350     Slide Valve Assemblies  360 
           Valve Body  362     Slide Rod Mount  364     Bolts  365     Seal  366     Slide Valve Cam Follower  369     
           
     
           400  Module Assembly
       Sliding Block  410 
           Bushings  412     Vacuum Orifice  414     Liquid intake orifice  416     
           Cam Roller  420     Down Tube  430     Liquid Connection Tube  435     Flush and Vacuum Head  440 
           Scrub Elements  442     Vacuum Orifices  444     Liquid Exit Orifice  446     
             
         Module Assembly  500 
       Sliding Block  510 
           Bushings  512  ( 4 )   Vacuum Orifices  514     Liquid Orifice  516     Mounting Screws  518     
           Cam Roller Assembly  520     Down Tube  530     Swivel Seal Retainer  532  (with hole for conduit)   Liquid Conduit  535     Central Union  538 
           Retaining Set Screws  539     
           Flush and Vacuum Head Segments  540  ( 2 )
           Segment body  541     Slotted male intake fitting  542  (fits into union)   Slot  544  (accepts one end of  550 )   Dislodger  545     Suction inlet opening  546  (intakes waste material)   
           Urethane Spring  550 
           Slide tab  551     Snap tab  452