I remember a previous HN discussion where someone mentioned working on improving design for a conveyor belt, but only on the drawing board so to speak, and only when they went to see it in action did they find out to their dismay that it was being used to transport chicken to get sorted and have their beaks singed and all that.

Or something very close to that; if anyone remembers that comment, and the discussion in general, not only would it be relevant here, I would be very grateful. I was never able to find that discussion again, I have no idea what the actual subject was... but the comment stuck with me.