Ultrasonic Knife Commercialisation Development by Southern Engineering Solutions NZ

This project aims to further develop the prototype Ultrasonic Knife (USK) developed by Ag Research NZ and the MIA (Meat Industry Association) Innovation Ltd into a commercial model ready to sell to the market both within Australia and NZ initially, with potential to sell into the wider world market. The USK is intended to replace the use of Flay knives on the process line for the removal of hides and pelts from processed animals. This project aims to further develop the prototype Ultrasonic Knife (USK) developed by Ag Research NZ and the MIA (Meat Industry Association) Innovation Ltd into a commercial model ready to sell to the market both within Australia and NZ initially, with potential to sell into the wider world market. The USK is intended to replace the use of Flay knives on the process line for the removal of hides and pelts from processed animals. The USK is a specialised de-hider with a safe blade powered by an ultrasonic transducer, generating high-frequency vibrations. Its ergonomic design houses an amplifier and transducer connected to a stainless-steel blade, enabling precise, clean cutting without damaging the hide or carcass. Initial trials tested proof of concept by directly comparing a flay cut and the USK on the same animal during hide removal at the hide puller. Further trials with a commercial model on different stock types and breeds are necessary to identify potential variables. The USK's initial design utilised second-hand transducers and electronics to establish the concept. The proposed project focuses on developing a market-ready Ultrasonic Knife suitable for industry adoption, starting with beef processing. The final model will incorporate industry-standard components, ergonomic design and proven commercial viability through rigorous trials and analysis. While the primary emphasis is on beef processing, future research will explore applications for sheep and lamb processing. The USK is a specialised de-hider with a safe blade powered by an ultrasonic transducer, generating high-frequency vibrations. Its ergonomic design houses an amplifier and transducer connected to a stainless-steel blade, enabling precise, clean cutting without damaging the hide or carcass. Initial trials tested proof of concept by directly comparing a flay cut and the USK on the same animal during hide removal at the hide puller. Further trials with a commercial model on different stock types and breeds are necessary to identify potential variables. The USK's initial design utilised second-hand transducers and electronics to establish the concept. The proposed project focuses on developing a market-ready Ultrasonic Knife suitable for industry adoption, starting with beef processing. The final model will incorporate industry-standard components, ergonomic design and proven commercial viability through rigorous trials and analysis. While the primary emphasis is on beef processing, future research will explore applications for sheep and lamb processing.