Conveyor Section Folds To Facilitate Transportation Or Storage Of Section Patents (Class 198/632)
  • Patent number: 11019767
    Abstract: A foldable auger having a first and second auger assemblies, each having a respective housing, auger screw and rotation axis. A pivot joins the assemblies, and is configured to permit the second auger assembly to fold relative to the first auger assembly. A first drive coupler is located at an end of the first auger screw and offset from the first axis, and a second drive coupler is located at an end of the second auger screw and offset from the second axis. A drive sleeve is rigidly connected to the end of the second auger screw. The drive sleeve has at least one slot that slidingly receives the second drive coupler. The second drive coupler is movable between a first position in driving connection with the first drive coupler, and a second position not in driving connection with the first drive coupler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2021
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventors: Clayton E. Banks, Jr., Cooper Linde, William Mark McCully
  • Patent number: 11014753
    Abstract: In accordance with one aspect of the present disclose, a conveyor system for a cold planer is provided. The convey system may have a first conveyor, a second conveyor, a folding mechanism, and a belt tensioner. The second conveyor may have a first and a second conveyor sections, and the second conveyor section is vertically movable relative to the first conveyor section by the folding mechanism from a folded to an unfolded position, and while in the unfolded position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2021
    Assignee: Caterpillar Paving Products Inc.
    Inventor: Colton J. Hirman
  • Patent number: 10309064
    Abstract: An improvement to a chassis for mobile asphalt plants consists in modularizing the design of the chassis in order to reduce design time and storage costs by virtue of a standardization of the chassis. Thus, the solution fits asphalt plants of different sizes and reduces the physical space required to store items belonging to the structure of the chassis. The high level of standardization has been achieved by segmenting the main structure of the chassis into three regions which appropriately accommodate all of the systems for producing the asphalt mixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2019
    Assignee: Ciber Equipamentos Rodoviarios LTDA
    Inventors: Andre Schwartz Franceschini, Guilherme Luiz Piccoli
  • Patent number: 9878850
    Abstract: A foldable conveyor includes a rocker mechanism and actuator coupled to first and second conveyor sections, pivotably connected by a pivotal coupling to pivot the second conveyor section between deployed and stowed positions. The rocker mechanism includes first and second pivotably coupled links pivotably coupled to each other and the first and second conveyor sections, and a mechanical advantage amplifier secured with the first link. The actuator is coupled to the mechanical advantage amplifier such that extension of the actuator moves the second conveyor section to a stowed position below the first conveyor section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2018
    Assignee: Caterpillar Paving Products Inc.
    Inventors: Lucian M. Husar, Tim J. Lindholm
  • Patent number: 9863193
    Abstract: A hydraulically powered trough extension attached to a pipe handling, pipe pickup and pipe laydown tool can be extended hydraulically to facilitate transport of pipe to/from a drill rig. The hydraulically powered trough extension is semipermanently attached to the trough of the pipe handling, pipe pickup and pipe laydown machine to eliminate the need for special equipment to attach a trough extension to the trough. A specially designed hinge enables the hydraulically powered trough extension to be folded so as to lay flat on the trough of the pipe handling, pipe laydown and pipe pickup machine. When the hydraulically powered trough extension is fully extended the hinge mechanism does not obstruct the movement of pipe on or off the pipe pickup and pipe laydown machine. This feature enables the hydraulically powered trough extension to be easily and safely extended for moving pipe to/from the drill platform and when folded for easy transport to another work site without the need for extra equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2018
    Inventor: Max Buchanan
  • Patent number: 9609805
    Abstract: An agricultural combine including an agricultural harvester, a crop tank for harvested material, an unloading auger for unloading and discharging crop material. The auger assembly has first and second auger tubes pivotally connected to one another. The auger tubes pivot between a first position in which the auger tubes are coaxial and a second position in which the auger tubes form one of at least two angles. A first link is pivotally connected to the first auger tube and a second link pivotally connected to the second auger tube. An actuator is connected to one of the auger tubes and to one of the links, with the first and second links being pivotally interconnected at one of two positions to maintain the auger tubes in both auger tube positions without loading the actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2017
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventors: Cooper W. Linde, Jason D. Schuster, Denver R. Yoder
  • Patent number: 9561913
    Abstract: Disclosed is a conveying device configured to convey food products located on a product support surface along a product conveying direction. The conveying device is adjustable with respect to a stationary base of the apparatus, with an adjustment device being provided for adjusting the conveying device. The adjustment device has a first articulated arm arrangement and a second articulated arm arrangement spaced apart therefrom. The articulated arm arrangements each have a first articulated arm pivotally connected to the base and a second articulated arm pivotally connected to the conveying device, with mutually corresponding articulated arms being pivotable about respective parallel pivot axes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2017
    Assignee: WEBER MASCHINENBAU GMBH BREIDENBACH
    Inventors: Kai-Andre Briel, Ingo Rother
  • Patent number: 9546045
    Abstract: A conveyor (10) for transporting products, in particular in dusty environments, especially in tissue paper processing installations, includes one or more conveyor belts (12) in particular of a mobile type, for transporting the product between one or more pickup and/or release points, includes a mounting frame (11) for the respective conveyor belt (12) which includes a respective frame (13) for supporting an endless band (14) which transports the product and which runs on corresponding guide and slide elements. The conveyor includes band sliding elements (15) which can be moved between a normal position where the band (14) is engaged and retained and a position where the selfsame band (14) is disengaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: PULSAR S.R.L.
    Inventor: Massimo Franzaroli
  • Patent number: 8925712
    Abstract: A folding mechanism for a hopper flare, the mechanism comprising a linkage mechanism having a first track provided on a first support, a second track provided on a second support, and a link coupled to both the first and second tracks. The link is capable of riding simultaneously along each of the first and second tracks as the second support pivots about its pivot axis. The first track includes a locking track segment having a bearing surface oriented to resist, by engagement with the link, movement of the second support about the pivot axis in at least one direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Terex GB Limited
    Inventor: Gordon Dunn
  • Patent number: 8833539
    Abstract: A belt conveyor system for creating an overland material transport assembly on a ground surface comprises a frame configured for transportation over the ground surface, a plurality of pivotally connected conveyor belt support sections, a head pulley assembly mounted to the first end of the frame, a tail pulley assembly mounted to one of the conveyor belt support sections, and a conveyor belt. The plurality of pivotally connected conveyor belt support sections are supportable on the frame in a transport configuration wherein the plurality of support sections are accordion-folded relative to one another. The plurality of pivotally connected conveyor belt support sections are movable to a material transport configuration wherein the plurality of support sections are unfolded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Superior Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Corbin J. Fehr, Bruce J. Berlinger, Jarrod J. Felton
  • Patent number: 8770386
    Abstract: In a folding transport conveyor (2) for a construction machine (1), with a first transport conveyor section (4) articulated at the construction machine (1), a second transport conveyor section (6) articulated at the first transport conveyor section (4) in a pivoting fashion, with a conveyor belt (10) continuously revolving around both transport conveyor sections (6), and with at least one pivoting mechanism acting between the transport conveyor sections (4, 6), it is provided that the pivoting mechanism includes a cam mechanism (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Wirtgen GmbH
    Inventors: Christian Berning, Heinz Koetting, Bjoern Schneider, Herbert Ley, Joerg Berges, Martin Lenz
  • Publication number: 20130306437
    Abstract: A folding mechanism for a hopper flare, the mechanism comprising a linkage mechanism having a first track provided on a first support, a second track provided on a second support, and a link coupled to both the first and second tracks. The link is capable of riding simultaneously along each of the first and second tracks as the second support pivots about its pivot axis. The first track includes a locking track segment having a bearing surface oriented to resist, by engagement with the link, movement of the second support about the pivot axis in at least one direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2013
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Inventor: Gordon Dunn
  • Patent number: 8584826
    Abstract: A system for conveying material is disclosed. The system may include a base assembly including at least one proximal leg movably, and a plurality of wheels configured to move between a transport position in which the plurality of wheels is adjacent to the base, and a working position in which the plurality of wheels is spaced from the base relative to the transport position, wherein the at least one proximal leg is configured to move between a retracted position in which the plurality of wheels supports the system on a ground surface, and an extended position in which the at least one proximal leg supports the system on the ground surface and at least one wheel of the plurality of wheels does not support the system on the ground surface; a conveying assembly; and a support assembly configured to move the conveying assembly between storage and operating positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Construction Equipment Company
    Inventors: Roger G. Smith, Carl E. Batson
  • Patent number: 8573387
    Abstract: An aggregate processing apparatus comprising a conveyor having its base coupled to the apparatus, the coupling allowing the conveyor to pivot about a first axis that is substantially parallel with the longitudinal axis of the conveyor, and to pivot substantially at the base towards and away from said apparatus. The conveyor is actuatable between a deployed state in which it projects from said apparatus, and a folded state in which it is disposed substantially against said apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Inventor: David Trimble
  • Publication number: 20130248329
    Abstract: In a folding transport conveyor (2) for a construction machine (1), with a first transport conveyor section (4) articulated at the construction machine (1), a second transport conveyor section (6) articulated at the first transport conveyor section (4) in a pivoting fashion, with a conveyor belt (10) continuously revolving around both transport conveyor sections (6), and with at least one pivoting mechanism acting between the transport conveyor sections (4, 6), it is provided that the pivoting mechanism includes a cam mechanism (12).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2013
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Applicant: Wirtgen GmbH
    Inventors: Christian Berning, Heinz Koetting, Bjoern Schneider, Herbert Ley, Joerg Berges, Martin Lenz
  • Patent number: 8424666
    Abstract: In a folding transport conveyor (2) for a construction machine (1), with a first transport conveyor section (4) articulated at the construction machine (1), a second transport conveyor section (6) articulated at the first transport conveyor section (4) in a pivoting fashion, with a conveyor belt (10) continuously revolving around both transport conveyor sections (6), and with at least one pivoting mechanism acting between the transport conveyor sections (4, 6), it is provided that the pivoting mechanism includes a cam mechanism (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Inventors: Christian Berning, Heinz Koetting, Bjoern Schneider, Herbert Ley, Joerg Berges, Martin Lenz
  • Publication number: 20130092509
    Abstract: An agricultural system for conveying product to a holding container is provided. One agricultural system includes a hopper configured to receive product and a conveyor configured to move the product from the hopper to a holding container. The hopper is configured to fold under the conveyor into a storage position that directs an opening in the hopper toward a soil surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2011
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Applicant: CNH Canada Ltd.
    Inventor: Kevin Norman Hall
  • Patent number: 8403147
    Abstract: A compact modular mobile aggregate processing system configured with no stand-alone inter-plant conveyors for decreasing the footprint of the system and an infinitely adjustable flow diverter(s) for increasing the control of and variation of output characteristics of the system; the system further including specialized folding conveyors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Terex USA, LLC
    Inventors: Edwin Sauser, Albert D. Botton, Gregory Young
  • Publication number: 20120175287
    Abstract: A compact modular mobile aggregate processing system configured with no stand-alone inter-plant conveyors for decreasing the footprint of the system and an infinitely adjustable flow diverter(s) for increasing the control of and variation of output characteristics of the system; the system further including specialized folding conveyors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2012
    Publication date: July 12, 2012
    Applicant: TEREX USA, LLC
    Inventors: EDWIN SAUSER, ALBERT D. BOTTON, GREGORY YOUNG
  • Patent number: 8196730
    Abstract: Mobile bagging machine systems and methods may relate to a mobile bagging machine that includes a variable-width tunnel, a variable-speed rotor, a relatively narrow rotor of large diameter and increased effective surface area, at least one material reservoir, a material conveyor system capable of continuous material processing during exchange of unloading vehicles, and/or an overall width less than approximately three meters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: SRC Innovations, LLC
    Inventor: Steven Cullen
  • Publication number: 20120048674
    Abstract: A system for conveying material is disclosed. The system may include a base assembly including at least one proximal leg movably, and a plurality of wheels configured to move between a transport position in which the plurality of wheels is adjacent to the base, and a working position in which the plurality of wheels is spaced from the base relative to the transport position, wherein the at least one proximal leg is configured to move between a retracted position in which the plurality of wheels supports the system on a ground surface, and an extended position in which the at least one proximal leg supports the system on the ground surface and at least one wheel of the plurality of wheels does not support the system on the ground surface; a conveying assembly; and a support assembly configured to move the conveying assembly between storage and operating positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: CONVEYOR SYSTEMS
    Inventors: Roger G. Smith, Carl E. Batson
  • Patent number: 8113332
    Abstract: A foldable side frame for a side conveyor system of a screening unit for processing materials that allows placing the side conveyor system within an envelope of a screening device. The system includes a base, mid and upper frame section of the side conveyor system, and a number of variable length rams that pivot the mid frame relative to the base frame about a first pivot axis and a pivot the upper frame relative to the mid frame about a second pivot axis in which in the operative position the first and second axes are obliquely angled relative to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Terex GB Ltd.
    Inventors: Anthony Devlin, Paul McDermott
  • Patent number: 8016096
    Abstract: A conveyor for a construction vehicle includes a frame removably connectable with the vehicle. The frame includes front and rear ends, first and second sides extending between the two ends, and upper and lower surfaces extending between the front and rear ends. An endless belt is disposed generally about the frame and at least one support member is connected with the frame. The support member has a first, vertical portion connected with the frame first side and a second, horizontal portion extending generally beneath the frame lower surface and being disposable upon a base surface. The support member is configured to retain the entire frame and the belt spaced generally above the base surface so as to facilitate removal of the belt from the frame and alternatively facilitate installation of the belt upon the frame. The support member may include an L-shaped bended bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: Volvo Construction Equipment AB
    Inventor: Brian W. Rudge
  • Patent number: 7992704
    Abstract: An improved material transport vehicle having an integrated assembly for cleaning out conveyors, elevators, hoppers and the like, and method for clean-out utilizing the same. The cleanout assembly comprises one or more detachable panels strategically located about the material transport vehicle, and means for releasing the same, so as to permit convenient and safe access to the components for removing unused, old or dried material. The detachable panel or panels are integral with a surface of the housings, typically the lower surface thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Assignee: Weiler, Inc.
    Inventor: Patrick J. Weiler
  • Publication number: 20100290879
    Abstract: The unloader system has a conveyor and a raise system having an elongate support element including a flexible first end portion and an opposite second end, the first end portion being connected to a support structure at a location higher than a first end of the conveyor, and the second end being connected to the conveyor at a location therealong adjacent to a free end thereof. A cam element is disposed on the support structure in a path of movement of the flexible first end portion of the support element such that as the conveyor is pivoted from the stored position toward the operating position the flexible first end portion will conformingly engage or bend about the cam element to raise the free end of the conveyor. The conveyor can include an elbow which is straightened by this action for raising the free end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2009
    Publication date: November 18, 2010
    Inventors: Jonathan E. Ricketts, Joshua D. Werning
  • Publication number: 20100282568
    Abstract: A material processing apparatus comprises a conveyor that is rotatable in vertical direction around a horizontal axis that is situated in an element rotatable in horizontal direction relative to the apparatus. The element is articulated to the apparatus at a main point of articulation, and at a point remote from the main point of articulation, articulated to a variable length element which in turn is articulated to the apparatus, and the element is connected to an actuator causing the horizontal rotational movement of the element together with the conveyor, defined by said main point of articulation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2005
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Applicant: METSO MINERALS INC.
    Inventors: Stephen A. Whyte, Stephen Wilkinson
  • Patent number: 7744337
    Abstract: The invention relates to a conveyor unit constituting a separating and feed mechanism (33), in particular for sheet-shaped workpieces, in particular sheets (3) to be printed, with a lifting mechanism (2) for transporting the sheet (3) vertically and a conveyor track with conveyor means (51, 52) for transporting the sheet (3) horizontally. This being the case, the conveying means (51, 52) are displaceable in a guide system between an operating position for feeding the sheet (3) to a production unit (36), in particular a printing machine (37), and a non-operating position to enable the sheet (3) to be lifted unhindered from a sheet stack (39).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: Durst Phototechnik Digital Technology GmbH
    Inventors: Hubert Anton Kaufmann, Peter Weingartner
  • Patent number: 7641035
    Abstract: An out-feed roller support stand having a sturdy, stable base that folds for compact storage. A support mast that telescopes into and is adjustable within the base supports a work support head that includes an adjustable cross bar on which a row of pivoting caster wheels are mounted. An alternative embodiment includes a ramp for guiding sagging ends of work-pieces up onto the caster wheels. Both the height and angle between the adjustable cross bar and floor are adjustable after the position of the support mast has been adjusted in order to position the support head in roughly the correct location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: Lee Valley Tools, Ltd.
    Inventors: Robin C. Lee, Steven K. Jones, Scott T. Roger
  • Patent number: 7347311
    Abstract: A mechanism is for a foldable vehicle conveyor having an axis, inner and outer sections and a joint connecting the sections, the outer section being pivotable between a deployed position and a folded position at which the outer section is disposed above the inner section. A linkage displaces the outer section between the two positions and includes a drive link pivotable on the inner section and a connector link pivotably connected with the drive link and with the outer section. The linkage moves between a deployed limit position where the drive link centerline extends parallel to the conveyor axis and the connector link centerline extends perpendicularly to the conveyor axis, and a folded limit position where the drive link centerline is generally perpendicular to the conveyor axis and the connector link centerline is generally parallel to and above the conveyor axis. An actuator displaces the linkage between the two positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2008
    Assignee: Volvo Construction Equipment AB
    Inventor: Brian W. Rudge
  • Publication number: 20070267273
    Abstract: A foldable conveyor includes a conveyor frame having a horizontal section and an inclined section pivotable with respect to the horizontal section to permit the conveyor to be in a compact folded state as well as an unfolded operational state. The conveyor includes a continuous belt such as a hinged metal belt which is movable to transport material from a loading area to a discharge area. A tensioning device provides appropriate tension on the belt to prevent the belt from interfering in an unfolding operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2007
    Publication date: November 22, 2007
    Inventors: Joseph M. Walsh, Gary E. Webers
  • Patent number: 7261200
    Abstract: The invention is an assembly for moving and rotating a conveyor from a operational orientation to a transport orientation. The assembly includes: an actuator operatively connecting to a first frame; an arm operatively connecting to the actuator and pivotally connecting to a first frame; a support sub-assembly operatively connected to the first frame and selectively rotatable around an axis and moveable forward and rearward along the axis, the support assembly operatively connecting to a conveyor frame; a first turnbuckle pivotally connected to the arm and to the support sub-assembly; and a second turnbuckle pivotally connected to the first frame and to the support sub-assembly. The assembly may further include a second actuator operatively connected to the first frame and operatively connected through a plurality of pivotally attached connection arms to a hopper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2007
    Assignee: Spudnik Equipment Company, LLC
    Inventor: Rainer Kemper
  • Patent number: 7182302
    Abstract: The invention relates to a support structure comprising a support assembly that is supported by legs. The support assembly can be pivoted around a pivoting axis (4) relative to the legs from a position of use to a rest position and can be blocked from pivoting in the position of use by a fixing member. In an advantageous improvement of such a structure, the captivation member is configured as a latch (5) that engages, in the position of use, with a wedge-type blocking surface (8) by means of a spring force, thereby forcing it against a blocking shoulder (9,9?).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Assignee: wolfcraft GmbH
    Inventor: Zbigniew Noniewicz
  • Patent number: 7004707
    Abstract: The invention relates to a charging/discharging equipment movable on a quay for charging of bulk (13) into a ship's hold (11), respectively for discharging therefrom, comprising—a first conveyor for transferring a batch of bulk (13) from a quay (7) at least to the level of the board of a ship (10),—a horizontal intermediate conveyor (3) connected to the discharging end of said first conveyor to receive the batch bulk (13),—an elevator frame (4) mounted in the front of the discharging end of said intermediate conveyor (3) as well as—an elevator platform (5) movable in the elevator frame (4) between the level of the intermediate conveyor (3) and the bottom end of the elevator frame (4) for transferring the batch bulk (13) into the hold (11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: Oy Marine Consulting Suksi Ltd.
    Inventor: Jukka Suksi
  • Patent number: 6910586
    Abstract: A hydraulic ram assembly adapted to move parts of a conveyor between a number of pre-defined positions. In one embodiment of the invention, the hydraulic ram assembly consists of a single hydraulic ram, pivotally coupled at one end to the chassis of a trommel, and pivotally coupled at the other end to at least one of a number of mechanical linkages. The mechanical linkages are configured to link the hydraulic ram and at least two parts of a trommel conveyor. At least one mechanical linkage is lockable and unlockable such that in operation, the hydraulic ram can move the parts of the trommel conveyor between (a) a first, lowered, extended, operational position; (b) a second, raised, extended, operational position; and (c) a third, folded, retracted position, suitable for transportation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2005
    Inventor: James Paschal McCloskey
  • Patent number: 6908380
    Abstract: A hinged unloading auger for an agricultural combine that reduces the portion of the unloading auger that extends beyond the rear end of the combine when the unloading auger is in its storage position. The horizontal section of the unloading auger includes a hinged joint that connects a first segment and a second segment. In the storage position, the joint is separated to provide a compact storage package. In the unloading position, the second segment is rotated around the hinge so that the axes of the first and second segments are coaxial.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2005
    Assignee: CNH America LLC
    Inventor: Dennis P. Silver
  • Publication number: 20040135044
    Abstract: A supporting framework has at least one roller which is carried by a carrying frame. The roller has an axis positioned generally along the horizontal direction in the use position. An axial extension projects out of each opposite end of the roller. The carrying frame has a pair of opposite, generally vertically extending bearing limbs, each bearing limb having a bearing opening. Each axial extension of the roller extends into one of the bearing openings of the bearing limbs. Lateral guide elements are provided at the two opposite ends of the roller. Each lateral guide element has a radially projecting lug which can be moved between an active position and an inactive position. The lugs can prevent a workpiece from moving past the ends of the roller when the lugs are in the active positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2004
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: Uwe Radermacher
  • Patent number: 6708814
    Abstract: A two part endless conveyor which is adjustable between an in-line operative position and a folded position. The conveyor has two folding conveyor parts which are mounted to the frame of a material handling apparatus. A folding mechanism interconnects the two conveyor parts. It includes a coupling block or linkage which interconnects the two folding conveyor via a respective one of a pair of pivots and a pair of linear actuators associated with the conveyor parts. Each actuator rotates the coupling block through approximately 90° about the respective pivot, whereby the folding mechanism, under the action of the two linear actuators, can adjust the conveyor parts between the in-line operative position and the folded transport position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: Extec Industries, PLC
    Inventor: Christopher William Wagstaffe
  • Patent number: 6705449
    Abstract: A bulk material processing apparatus having a longitudinally extending main frame and a supply conveyor mounted on, and extending length wise of the main frame to convey a supply of bulk material from a forward lower end of the conveyor to an upper and rearward discharge end. A material processing device is mounted on the main frame and arranged to receive material from the discharge end of the supply conveyor, to process the material, and to discharge processed material. A discharge conveyor is mounted on the main frame below the processing device to receive processed material discharged by the processing device and to discharge the material to a discharge point located rearwardly of the apparatus. The processing device is moveable between a raised operating position and a lowered transport position. Likewise, the discharge conveyor is moveable between a raised operative position and a lowered inoperative position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2004
    Assignee: Extec Industries, PLC
    Inventor: Christopher William Wagstaffe
  • Publication number: 20040031662
    Abstract: A conveyor apparatus comprises an upper conveyor tube. A lower conveyor tube has an open upper discharge end telescopically engaged with the upper conveyor tube, and an intake hopper mounted on a lower intake end. A telescope actuator selectively extends and retracts the lower conveyor tube. Wheels are attached to the upper conveyor tube to support the lower end of the upper conveyor tube and the lower conveyor tube. The wheels are oriented for travel transverse to the conveyor tubes, and an elevating actuator is operative to raise and lower the wheels. A conveyor belt has a top run that passes through the hopper and conveyor tubes, and a belt drive moves the top run of the conveyor belt up through the conveyor tubes to carry material from the intake hopper to the upper discharge end of the upper conveyor tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2003
    Publication date: February 19, 2004
    Inventor: Adrianus Petrus Jacoba Dekoning
  • Patent number: 6662939
    Abstract: A framework for a belt conveyor comprising a base structure having a three point mounting arrangement in which the mountings are in a substantial triangular displacement with one upper mounting and two lower mountings. A boom structure has its inward end pivotally connected to the base structure through the three mountings and has an elongate boom member and an elongate support member. The boom member is pivoted to the upper mounting with the support member being pivoted to one of the lower mountings. The support member underlies the boom member and towards its mounted inward end is cranked outwardly and has outer end pivotally connected to the boom structure. A mounting plate is provided near to the crank between which and the second of the lower mountings, a ram and cylinder arrangement is connected. The mountings are displayed angularly to enable the boom structure to be capable of articulation between an outbound upwardly inclined horizontal orientation and an inward substantially vertical orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Assignee: Powerscreen International Distribution Limited
    Inventors: Daniel McCusker, Neil Suitor
  • Patent number: 6656034
    Abstract: A coin handling device comprises a hopper and an escalator for receiving coins from the hopper. The escalator is connected to the hopper and extends upwardly from the hopper. At least a portion of the escalator is downwardly foldable toward the hopper to reduce an overall height of the coin handling device. The reduced height facilitates removal of the coin handling device from a gaming machine cabinet and installation of the coin handling device into the cabinet in the event the cabinet provides minimal clearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: WMS Gaming Inc.
    Inventors: James M. Rasmussen, Gregory J. Tastad, Norman R. Wurz, Erik J. Lindahl
  • Publication number: 20030121761
    Abstract: A two part endless conveyor (10) which is adjustable between an in-line operative position, and a folded transport position, and which comprises: a first conveyor part (11) which is adapted to be mounted at a first end (13) on the frame of a materiel handling apparatus; a second conveyor part (14) which is adjustably mounted at a first end (15) on an opposite second in which the second conveyor part (14) forms a prolongation of the first conveyor part (11) and so that the opposite second end (17) of the second conveyor part (14) forms a discharge end of the conveyor (10), and a transport position in which one of the conveyor parts (11, 14) underlies the other conveyor part and extends generally parallel thereto; and a folding mechanism (18) which interconnects the second end (16) of the first conveyor part (11) to the first end (15) of the second conveyor part (14), said mechanism comprising: a coupling block or linkage (18) which interconnects the second end (16) of the first conveyor part (11) and the first
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Publication date: July 3, 2003
    Inventor: Christopher William Wagstaffe
  • Patent number: 6488140
    Abstract: A conveyor transport apparatus comprises a main portable conveyor and a secondary conveyor releasably attached to the main conveyor frame. An actuator is operable to move the secondary conveyor from a ground position where the secondary conveyor is supported on the ground, to a transport position where the secondary conveyor is raised above the ground. The apparatus may be configured so that the secondary conveyor is supported on the ground and attached to the main conveyor when the main conveyor is in a raised position and the secondary conveyor is raised above the ground when the main conveyor is in a lowered position. The main conveyor can be attached to a towing vehicle for transport of the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2002
    Assignee: Brandt Industries Ltd.
    Inventors: Marc Eberle, Jon Close
  • Patent number: 6422376
    Abstract: An auger coupler for a folding grain conveyor is disclosed which operates to connect an upper auger to a lower auger. A drive member adapted to be connected to the lower auger include a pilot shaft designed to help align the drive member with the driven member and an annular thrust bearing surface surrounding the pilot shaft. Spaced outwardly from the thrust bearing surface is an annular row of drive teeth. The drive teeth project axially upwardly from an annular base surface which is parallel to and concentric with the thrust bearing surface. A driven member adapted to be connected to the upper auger includes a receiver sized and shaped to accept the pilot shaft of the drive member. The receiver is also surrounded by an annular thrust bearing surface. Spaced radially outwardly from the thrust bearing surface is an annular row of driven teeth which are structurally identical to the drive teeth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Assignee: Sunflower Manufacturing Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Dirk E. Nichols, Jeffrey S. Hughes
  • Publication number: 20020070098
    Abstract: A conveyor transport apparatus comprises a main portable conveyor and a secondary conveyor releasably attached to the main conveyor frame. An actuator is operable to move the secondary conveyor from a ground position where the secondary conveyor is supported on the ground, to a transport position where the secondary conveyor is raised above the ground. The apparatus may be configured so that the secondary conveyor is supported on the ground and attached to the main conveyor when the main conveyor is in a raised position and the secondary conveyor is raised above the ground when the main conveyor is in a lowered position. The main conveyor can be attached to a towing vehicle for transport of the apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2001
    Publication date: June 13, 2002
    Applicant: Brandt Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Marc Eberle, Jon Close
  • Patent number: 6302265
    Abstract: A conveyor assembly having upper and lower truss portions includes a hinge mechanism structurally arranged to be secured to the upper truss and lower truss portions. Rotational movement of the hinge mechanism lowers the lower truss portion while simultaneously positioning the upper truss portion in a plane substantially parallel to the plane of the lower truss portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2001
    Assignee: CMI Corporation
    Inventor: John Cunningham
  • Patent number: 6296109
    Abstract: A fold linkage is provided that is usable in combination with a conveyor assembly having a foldable conveyor section and a main conveyor section. The fold linkage includes linkage members and hinge sections that are rotatably attached to each other and that are connectable to the conveyor sections without interference with the conveyor assembly truss members. The fold linkage further includes a pressure operated cylinder that is extendable and retractable so as to fold and unfold the conveyor assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2001
    Assignee: Astec Industries Inc.
    Inventor: Jerry Nohl
  • Patent number: 6179116
    Abstract: A combination adjustable height bearing stand and roller platform assembly is provided which can be fixed at a pre-adjusted height. The combination bearing stand and roller assembly includes two pairs of legs with each pair of legs being pivotally connected together at a joint connection so that the legs can be brought from a parallel position used for storage to an angled position. The corresponding legs of the two pairs of legs are connected by cross-connectors. The legs are tubular and one leg of each pair of legs receives a height-adjustable support which can be secured at a pre-selected height by a fixing element. The top ends of the height-adjustable support are connected to fastening elements which, in turn, are pivotally connected to two carriers which support a platform assembly. Both the platform and bearing stand legs are pivotable between a collapsed and parallel storage position to an angled and horizontal position respectively using a single motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Assignee: Wolfcraft GmbH
    Inventors: Zbiegniew Noniewicz, Winfried Ebert, Hans-Juergen Schueller, Edmund Apolinski, David Daniels
  • Patent number: 6129196
    Abstract: Highway safety regulations generally limit the length of trailers to 75'. Most large conveyors generally have two top folds, one at each end of the conveyor. This format facilitates a trailer which is balanced on a wheeled support both in an unfolded operative position and a folded towing position. The mono-fold trailer conveyor comprises: a main conveyor section having a feed end portion; one and only one folding discharge conveyor section having one end hingably attached to the main conveyor section and having a length exceeding one half of the length of the main conveyor section; and, a counterweight positioned on the feed end portion of the conveyor, necessitated by the otherwise unbalanced folding discharge conveyor section, and sized to stably maintain the discharge end of the conveyor in an elevated position when the conveyor is in an operative unfolded position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Inventors: Derek Lapper, Paschal McCloskey
  • Patent number: 6119847
    Abstract: A conveyor for transporting grain or the like consists of three or more sections foldable about two axes of rotation displaced from each other. Separate retractors operate to fold the conveyor about the two axes. A link connecting the first and second retractors permits a single actuator to fully fold the conveyor about the two axes. The first and second axes may be rotationally displaced from each other by about 90.degree..
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: Brandt Industries Ltd.
    Inventors: R. Shawn Mooney, Bradley Zazula