Ovine automation: robotic brisket cutting

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to provide details on implementation of inexpensive and accurate automation solution for performing brisket cutting while the sheep/lamb is hanging by forelegs. Design/methodology/approach The system developed uses 6 Degree of freedom (DOF) industrial manipulator, custom build tool, sterilizer, and other off the shelf products to create a machine, all the parameters in the system are designed to ensure that the highest levels of safety and hygiene standards are met. The primary system has been developed for sheep/lamb. Findings It is shown that the system developed enhanced both the productivity and quality of the process, while adhering to the hygiene standard in the meat processing plants. Research limitations/implications The process of precise brisket can be very challenging; the system designed uses customised tools to provide a good model for the trajectory planning. Originality/value The system developed uses statistical tools to calculate the correct trajectories.