A prototype skeleture mapper for automated abattoir application

The major limitation in abattoir automation lies in sensing. This paper outlines a measurement system to map the locations of the important sites on a half meat carcase, non-invasively and by direct reference to the skeleture, the attribute of a carcase that changes the least,with breed, age, and condition. The design and construction of a prototype skeleture mapper is outlined. Original heuristic functions, to enhance the raw data output of the measurement system to the point where detection of important sites on a carcase by software is feasible, are demonstrated. Practical applications of the system are outlined.