Mechanically sepg. cut loaf slices to mfr. rusks etc. - by conveying upright slices via divergent channels between static guides

摘要

The slices of each loaf are advanced along a slide plate by a push bar low down against their back edges. The slices are pushed forward through progressively divergent channels between rigid guides suspended above the slide plate and conveyor. Each guide pref. comprises superimposed tubes which present a sharp leading edge to the advancing cut loaf. The leading edges of the guides are pref. staggered backwards towards the centre of the loaf; this keeps the main block of slices stable at the middle of the loaf while slices are progressively peeled away to diverge from both ends. Sepn. and spacing of slices are effected with static guides so that no dynamic, lateral handling linkage is required. This obviates a costly, complex mechanism having an operating inertia which limited output speed.