AI-Powered Poultry Processing: Wishbone Removal Tech

Publication ID: 24-11856961_0003_PTD

Published: October 26, 2025

Category:Synergistic Combinations

Legal Citation

pr1or.art Inc., “AI-Powered Poultry Processing: Wishbone Removal Tech,” Published Technical Disclosure No. 24-11856961_0003_PTD, Published October 26, 2025, available at https://archive.pr1or.art/24-11856961_0003_PTD

This technical disclosure describes improvements that would be readily apparent to a Person Having Ordinary Skill In The Art (PHOSITA) when considered in combination with the foundational architecture disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 11,856,961.

Background and Problem Solved

The original patent disclosed an apparatus and method for moving-along tool positioning as well as assembly and method for wishbone removal, but it had limitations in terms of processing speed, accuracy, and data management. The present invention addresses these limitations by incorporating synergistic combinations of distinct technologies to create a more powerful and intelligent system.

Novelty and Inventive Step

The new claims introduce novel synergistic combinations of distinct technologies, including computer vision, machine learning, IoT sensors, blockchain, and robotics, which are not present in the original patent. These combinations create a more powerful and intelligent system that is not obvious from the original patent.

Alternative Embodiments and Variations

Alternative embodiments of the invention could include integrating the apparatus for moving-along tool positioning with other advanced technologies, such as augmented reality, natural language processing, or 5G connectivity. Variations of the system could be designed for processing different types of poultry or other food products.

Potential Commercial Applications and Market

The intelligent poultry processing system has significant commercial potential in the food processing industry, particularly in the poultry sector. The system's ability to increase processing speed, accuracy, and data management capabilities makes it an attractive solution for poultry processing companies looking to improve their operations and reduce costs.

CPC Classifications

Section	Class	Group
A	A22	A22C21/0069
A	A22	A22C21/0053

Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)

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Field of Art

Poultry processing equipment and automated food processing systems, specifically involving conveyor-based apparatus for moving and processing food products with precision positioning and tool manipulation

Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile

A mechanical engineer with expertise in food processing automation, familiar with conveyor systems, robotic positioning, sensor integration, and industrial control technologies with 3-5 years of experience in food manufacturing equipment design

Obviousness Rationale

A PHOSITA would recognize that the source patent's apparatus for moving and positioning tools during poultry processing provides a foundational technological platform that naturally invites integration with contemporary automation technologies. The disclosed variations represent predictable combinations of known technologies that would be obvious to implement given the existing mechanical positioning system. The core innovation of precise linear movement and tool positioning can be readily augmented with computer vision, machine learning, and IoT monitoring without requiring inventive complexity.

Obvious Combinations & Variations

Source Patent Element

Conveyor device with receiving elements for holding articles during linear conveyance

PTD Variation

Adding computer vision system for detecting and tracking poultry carcasses

Obviousness Reasoning

Sensor integration for object detection is a standard design improvement in automated manufacturing, representing a known technique for enhancing existing mechanical systems with minimal inventive step

Source Patent Element

Tool positioning apparatus with precise linear movement

PTD Variation

Incorporating robotic arm for performing processing tasks based on 3D carcass modeling

Obviousness Reasoning

Extending mechanical positioning systems with robotic end effectors is a predictable evolution in industrial automation, particularly in food processing where precision manipulation is critical

Source Patent Element

Linear conveying system for processing articles

PTD Variation

Implementing IoT sensors and blockchain tracking for monitoring processing parameters

Obviousness Reasoning

Data collection and verification technologies are standard design choices for improving traceability and quality control in manufacturing processes, representing an obvious technological progression

Source Patent Element

Processing station with tool positioning mechanism

PTD Variation

Applying machine learning algorithms to optimize processing workflows and predict product quality

Obviousness Reasoning

Using statistical analysis and adaptive algorithms to improve industrial processes is a well-established approach that would be obvious to implement given existing mechanical systems

35 U.S.C. § 103 Summary: Based on US Patent 11856961's teachings of a precise linear movement apparatus for processing articles, the present disclosure demonstrates that a Person Having Ordinary Skill In The Art would find the integration of computer vision, machine learning, IoT sensors, and robotic control systems to be obvious extensions of the foundational mechanical positioning technology. The variations represent predictable combinations of known techniques that do not rise to the level of non-obvious innovation, thus rendering potential derivative claims obvious under 35 U.S.C. Section 103.

Original Patent Information

Patent Number	US 11,856,961
Title	Apparatus and method for moving-along tool positioning as well as assembly and method for wishbone removal
Assignee(s)	Nordischer Maschinenbau Rud. Baader GMBH & Co. KG