Boning method and apparatus

PCT No. PCT/AU91/00172 Sec. 371 Date Jan. 21, 1993 Sec. 102(e) Date Jan. 21, 1993 PCT Filed Apr. 29, 1991 PCT Pub. No. WO92/01385 PCT Pub. Date Feb. 6, 1992.A boning process and apparatus for separating meat and bone, particularly ribs, in an animal carcass. The spine (12) is restrained relative to the ribs (16) and which are moved in an arc (A) so as to dislocate the joints (17) and to sever connective tissue. This exposes the ribs (16) at the dislocated joints (17) and the exposed ends (16a) are moved along a line (B or C) to progressively extend the exposed portions (16a) so as to separate a major part of each rib (16) from tissues (20) remaining attached to the spine (12). Cuts (21, 22) are formed in the tissues adjacent to the spine (12) and adjacent to the joint (17) to assist in exposing the ribs (16). The apparatus includes a support structure (50) including a base (51) and a spine support (52) for supporting the thoracic portion (10) and being movable towards and away from the base (51), the restraining means (30) for the spine (12) being mounted to the spine support (52) so as to be movable together with the spine support (52) and the thoracic portion (10) supported thereby. Rib moving means (55) are mounted to the base (51) to initially move the ribs (16). Movement of the spine support (52) away from and towards the base (51) effects further rib movements.