Formed Of Or Including Pivotally Interconnected Rigid Links Patents (Class 198/850)
  • Patent number: 8851271
    Abstract: Conveyor belts are made from modular links having offset forward and rearward projecting eye parts to intercalate eye parts from one belt link between eye parts with oval lateral apertures. Connecting rods inserted through aligned apertures hingedly connect adjacent links. Clips restrict lateral turning of the belt links. Clips have general U-shapes with two legs, a bridge portion end, and opposite free ends. Projecting members at the free ends have lengths parallel to the legs and smaller than the lengths of the apertures in the belt links in which the clip is to be installed, and have heights equivalent to or smaller than the heights of the aperture in the belt link in which the clip is to be installed. The lateral distance between the two legs of the U, is larger than the lateral extent of an eye part in the belt link in which the clip is installed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Ammeraal Beltech Modular A/S
    Inventor: Germ Buter
  • Publication number: 20140262698
    Abstract: A surface platform for a conveyor belt includes a platform member having an upper surface and a rail member at one side of the upper surface. One end of the rail member has an undercut portion defining an extension, and the other end of the rail member defines a slot, the slot and extension being complimentarily sized. The slot has a bottom edge located above the upper surface of the platform member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Joey D. Whitten, Jack F. Stone
  • Publication number: 20140251767
    Abstract: A conveyor system including a train of carrier plates arranged for movement along a conveyor path which possesses either rightward turns or leftward turns and each carrier plate defines a leading edge and a trailing edge. Each of the leading and trailing edges has an outer portion which is disposed adjacent a side of the carrier plate opposite the direction of turn of the conveyor path and an inner portion. Each carrier plate is pivotally mounted upon an endless drive member at a location along the carrier plate which is disposed between the leading and trailing edges of the plate, and is shaped so that the outer portion of each of its leading and trailing edges is longer than the inner portion of its leading and trailing edges. Gap plates cover any gap between two sequential conveyor plates as the train is moved through non-linear sections of the conveyor path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2014
    Publication date: September 11, 2014
    Inventor: John Edward Cleaves
  • Patent number: 8827071
    Abstract: The invention relates to a transporting apparatus for conveying a product, comprising a movable conveying element (2) for conveying the product, also comprising a fixed-location running rail (3), which is arranged all the way round and defines a running track for the conveying element (2), and further comprising a linear-motor-drive means (4) for driving the conveying element (2), wherein the conveying element (2) has a permanent magnet (5) which is in operative connection with coils (6) of the linear-motor-drive means (4), and wherein the conveying element (2) has at least a first sub-element (22) and a second sub-element (23), which are connected to one another in an articulated manner by means of an articulation (7).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Heinrich van de Loecht
  • Publication number: 20140216900
    Abstract: A self-supporting platform is formed of a plurality of hingedly connected modules. Adjacent modules may bend inwards against each other but resist flexing in the opposite direction. Each module includes a slotted module connector extending below the module body. The slotted module connector engages a peg to allow one-way bending of the modules relative to each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2013
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: LAITRAM, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Jorge E. Nagel, Glenn R. McCall, Jr., Stephen T. Ferrell
  • Patent number: 8783449
    Abstract: Disclosed is a conveyor chain (100) in which a large number of chain links (110) on which components are loaded are linked at hinge sections by means of hinge pins (120) and in which a plurality of free rollers are provided protruding from both the front and rear surfaces of the chain links (110), wherein the plurality of free rollers are each rotationally held in roller holders to form roller units (130) and are formed so as to be attachable from the longitudinal direction in a unit attachment region of the chain links (110). By means of the aforementioned structure, it is possible to replace worn components by means of a simple operation and it is unnecessary to replace chain links (110) which have not become worn, costs are reduced, and it is simple to change the rotation direction of the free rollers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Tsubakimoto Chain Co.
    Inventor: Yoshihiro Murakami
  • Patent number: 8776998
    Abstract: A modular plastic conveyor belt constructed of belt modules having hooked structure to hold belt rows together during splicing for easier hinge-rod insertion and to accommodate an elongated belt edge portion permitting hinge-rod growth and a method for splicing such a belt together. The modules include a pivot end that hooks into a mating receptacle on the module of a consecutive belt row. An aperture through the receptacle and the pivot end is aligned with the apertures of other hinge elements to form a lateral passageway for a hinge rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: Laitram, L.L.C.
    Inventors: David C. Weiser, Gilbert J. MacLachlan, Terral A. Ridgell
  • Publication number: 20140190793
    Abstract: A chain link of a transport chain of a conveyor for conveying an article hanging from a holding adapter includes a base body having lateral contact surfaces configured to enable friction rollers to be pressed there against for driving the transport chain. Arranged on the base body at ends in spaced-apart relationship in a conveying direction are coupling sections for swingable connection with a neighboring chain link. Bearings are formed on an upper side of the base body for support of running or guide rollers. A thrust member is connected vertically elastically to an underside of the base body and has an underside provided with at least one recess for formfittingly receiving a coupler of a head piece of the holding adapter for holding the article to be conveyed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2014
    Publication date: July 10, 2014
    Inventor: Thomas Otto
  • Patent number: 8771421
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for vapor deposition of a sublimated source material as a thin film on discrete photovoltaic (PV) module substrates conveyed in a continuous non-stop manner through said apparatus. The apparatus includes a vapor deposition head configured for receipt and sublimation of a source material, and for distributing the sublimated source material onto an upper surface of substrates conveyed through a deposition area. A roll seal configuration is provided at each of an entry slot and an exit slot for the substrates conveyed through the apparatus. The roll seal configuration further includes a cylinder rotatably supported at a defined gap height above a conveyance plane of the substrates such that the cylinder is not in continuous rolling contact with the substrates within the window of finished active semiconductor material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: First Solar, Inc.
    Inventor: Christopher Rathweg
  • Publication number: 20140166446
    Abstract: A track system comprises a plurality of track components. Each of the plurality of track components has a cross-section comprising an upper section and a lower section, the upper section being wider than the lower section. At least one carrier has a plurality of rolling surfaces having a first and a second rolling surface, which engage opposing sides of at least one of the plurality of track components that correspond to the lower section of the cross-section of the at least one of the plurality of track components.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2014
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Inventor: Raymond Laniado
  • Publication number: 20140158502
    Abstract: The invention relates to a conveying unit for guiding and conveying a material web in a thermoform packaging machine, comprising, on either longitudinal side of a machine frame, a conveyor chain, a chain wheel and a guide device. A chain link of the conveyor chain and a clamp guide can be implemented together and in one piece as a shaped part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2013
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Applicant: Multivac Sepp HaggenmĂĽller GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Gunnar Kurz
  • Publication number: 20140151199
    Abstract: An endlessly circulating link conveyor with energy supply from a stationary source comprises a plurality, of links (1) that are connected to one another such that they can pivot with respect to one another, jointly form a link conveyor that follows a running path over deflection rollers (6) and can be driven in circulating fashion, an energy guiding chain (30), one end of which travels with the link conveyor and the other end of which is arranged in rotating fashion within the circulatory path, and via which the link conveyor can be connected to supply lines (36), where the links (1) of the link conveyor display a channel (2) for receiving distribution lines (40) and, laterally next to the channel, a guide groove (3) for guiding the energy guiding chain (30), where the upper face of at least one of the links (1) displays a mounting surface for consumers, and one of the links (1) is equipped for connecting the travelling end (32) of the energy guiding chain (30).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2011
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Inventors: Frank Blase, Andreas Hermey
  • Patent number: 8720676
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a pitch for a modular conveyor belt. In some embodiments, the pitch may include a link having a first leg, including an opening formed in the first leg. The opening may be defined by a first edge, a second edge opposite the first edge, a first side edge, and a second side edge opposite the first side edge. In addition, the pitch may include a projection associated with the first edge. In a first position, the projection may extend substantially perpendicularly away from the first edge towards the second edge so that a free end of the projection is positioned proximate the second edge. Also, the projection may be configured to deflect to a second position, in which the free end of the projection is deflected within the opening towards one of the first side edge and the second side edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Ashworth Bros., Inc.
    Inventors: Darroll Joseph Neely, Joseph A. Bowen
  • Patent number: 8695790
    Abstract: A fastening system for joining two ends of a conveyor belt segment includes an inhibiting surface for controlling movement of the ends relative to each other. The inhibiting surface is offset from an inner surface of a conveyor belt segment employing the fastening system and engages a surface of a corresponding conveyor belt segment to reduce tenting of the conveyor belt segment ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Laitram, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Terral A. Ridgell, Michael V. Piehler, Kevin W. Guernsey, John H. Kuchler, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20140054141
    Abstract: A conveyor chain link a main body, a top plate to which a handling product or part thereof is restable thereupon; said main body having a front portion and a rear portion; said front portion and rear portion having means to be interconnected such that one link can be connectable to another in order for the establishment of a multi-linked conveyor chain; a first guide member arrangement including a pair of rotably-supported laterally extending on opposing sides of an underneath side of said top plate, adapted to roll in the direction of movement of said conveyor chain, wherein said rollers of the first guide member arrangement are adapted to rest and rotate along a corresponding top face of a wear strip as part of a conveyor assembly support structure for the conveyor chain; a second guide member arrangement, including two rotably-supportable guide members on opposing sides of said main body, rotably about a longitudinal axis, perpendicular to the top plate, wherein the peripheral edge of the respective guide
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2012
    Publication date: February 27, 2014
    Inventors: Bok Leong Ooi, Johnny Teik Chuan Yew
  • Patent number: 8646595
    Abstract: Snap-on rollers for a conveyor belt. The snap-on roller may be snapped onto an axle or into a cavity of a conveyor belt module. Multi-piece snap-on rollers can be installed radially onto an axle on a conveyor belt and joined together in a puzzle pattern to form a complete roller that can rotate on the axle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Laitram, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Abraham L. Miller, Gibert J. MacLachlan, David C. Weiser
  • Publication number: 20140027250
    Abstract: A modular conveyor belt having extended raised ribs that overlap to prevent the top conveying surface of the belt from opening up as the belt articulates forward around a sprocket at a hinge joint. Protrusions extend from the raised ribs past the ends of the belt modules. When rows of belt modules are connected together at hinge joints, the interleaved protrusions overlap laterally over a range of articulation angles. The modules may include cavities for roller assemblies, such as engaged stacked rollers in which a bottom roller is allowed to float vertically to maintain good contact with the top roller as they wear.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2012
    Publication date: January 30, 2014
    Applicant: LAITRAM, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Angela Longo Marshall, Stephen T. Ferrell
  • Patent number: 8636141
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a pitch for a modular conveyor belt. In some embodiments, the pitch may include a link having a first leg, including an opening formed in the first leg. The opening may be defined by a first edge, a second edge opposite the first edge, a first side edge, and a second side edge opposite the first side edge. In addition, the pitch may include a projection associated with the first edge. In a first position, the projection may extend substantially perpendicularly away from the first edge towards the second edge so that a free end of the projection is positioned proximate the second edge. Also, the projection may be configured to deflect to a second position, in which the free end of the projection is deflected within the opening towards one of the first side edge and the second side edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: Ashworth Bros., Inc.
    Inventors: Darroll Joseph Neely, Joseph A. Bowen
  • Publication number: 20140021020
    Abstract: A modular spiral belt constructed of a series of hingedly interconnected belt modules arranged in a helical stack. The modular spiral belt includes outer side plates that include openings for airflow and inner side plates that are solid to block airflow. The openings may include valves for selectively opening and closing the openings. A locking mechanism may lock two tiers together. A hold down may apply pressure to prevent destacking of the belt, or a guide may be disposed with the helical stack for preventing destacking.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2013
    Publication date: January 23, 2014
    Inventors: David W. Bogle, Alejandro J. Talbott, Robert L. Rosen
  • Patent number: 8631930
    Abstract: A link chain for chain conveyors for use in mining, with vertical chain links having a constant cross-sectional profile provided on the inside with a circular arc and on the outside preferably with a flat section, and with horizontal chain links having front sections, longitudinal limbs and an oval inner opening. The longitudinal limbs on the outer sides comprising at least adjacent to the upper and lower sides a spherical shaped surface and/or the horizontal chain links comprising on the transition of the front sections into the longitudinal limbs corner areas, wherein the longitudinal limbs on their top side and bottom side at least in the corner areas are partially provided with a cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: Caterpillar Global Mining Europe GmbH
    Inventors: Hans Meya, Karl-Heinz Schurer, Thomas Tegethoff
  • Patent number: 8631927
    Abstract: A chain for a particulate material extrusion pump includes a plurality of links, each of the plurality of links having a link body and a link ledge, wherein each link ledge of the plurality of links at least partially overlaps the link body of an adjacent one of the plurality of links.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: Aerojet Rocketdyne of DE, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy Saunders, John D. Brady
  • Publication number: 20140008186
    Abstract: Systems and methods for displaying content in a conveyor system are provided. A content displaying conveyor plate includes a base plate and an upper plate that is configured to be releasably coupled to the base plate. The upper plate can be configured to display content, for example content that is integral to the base plate, content that is disposed between the upper plate and the base plate, or any combination thereof The upper plate can be coupled to the base plate via one or more connection members defined on the upper plate and/or the base plate. Any, number, such as all of the base plates of an existing conveyor system can be replaced with respective content displaying conveyor plates. The base plate of the content displaying conveyor plate can define one or more recesses, the recesses configured to receive an attachment member and/or other components of a carousel therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2013
    Publication date: January 9, 2014
    Inventors: Stephen William Armstrong, Michael Samuel Lagana
  • Patent number: 8622203
    Abstract: A device for sorting products including a frame, an endless drivable flexible conveying element, successive elongated carriers, which are each coupled to the conveying element via a coupler for being conveyed in a conveying direction along an endless conveying path, which carriers extend transversely to the conveying direction, and pusher elements which are each movable along a carrier. The coupler including a supporting part and a supported part supported by the supporting part, as well as a connector for detachably connecting the supporting part and the supported part together, wherein the supporting part is coupled to the conveying element and the supported part is connected to a carrier, and wherein the connector can be accessed from the upper side of the supported part for effecting the connection between the supporting part and the supported part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: Vanderlande Industries B.V.
    Inventors: Rob Theodorus Maria Poels, Johannes Gerardus Adrianus Marinus Verbunt, Martinus Johannes Maria Vertogen
  • Publication number: 20130334015
    Abstract: A conveyor belt configured to contact a drive surface is disclosed including a substantially U-shaped link having an outermost portion with a contact surface configured to face the drive surface. The outermost portion of the link may be more resistant to wear due to contact with the drive surface than other portions of the link.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2012
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Applicant: Ashworth Bros., Inc.
    Inventor: Jonathan R. Lasecki
  • Patent number: 8607967
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a pitch for a modular conveyor belt. In some embodiments, the pitch may include a link having a first leg, including an opening formed in the first leg. The opening may be defined by a first edge, a second edge opposite the first edge, a first side edge, and a second side edge opposite the first side edge. In addition, the pitch may include a projection associated with the first edge. In a first position, the projection may extend substantially perpendicularly away from the first edge towards the second edge so that a free end of the projection is positioned proximate the second edge. Also, the projection may be configured to deflect to a second position, in which the free end of the projection is deflected within the opening towards one of the first side edge and the second side edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: Ashworth Bros., Inc.
    Inventors: Darroll Joseph Neely, Joseph A. Bowen
  • Publication number: 20130319829
    Abstract: A conveyor belt module includes a body, a link end formed by the body, and an opening through the link end along a hinge axis. A cover extends from the body in a direction of the hinge axis and a post extends from the cover; a bearing is rotatably engaged with the post. A fastener engages the post to capture the bearing between the cover and the fastener, such that the bearing is housed at least partially between the upper and lower extremes of the body. A track for supporting and guiding the conveyor belt module includes a guide arm extending into a guide channel defined by the body to engage the bearing. The conveyor belt module may also include laterally offset protrusions extending from the link end in opposite directions to inhibit engagement with a drive member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2013
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: REXNORD INDUSTRIES, LLC
    Inventors: Justin Michael Stefanko, Robert E. Mitchell
  • Publication number: 20130306446
    Abstract: A link for a modular conveyor belt may include a supporting structure and a bearing structure covering at least a portion of the supporting structure. The supporting structure may have a tensile strength that is higher than the bearing structure, and the bearing structure may be more resistant to wear than the supporting structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2012
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Applicant: Ashworth Bros., Inc.
    Inventor: Darroll Joseph Neely
  • Publication number: 20130306445
    Abstract: A modular radius conveyor belt having magnetic material in adjacent belt rows, including magnets in selected rows of belt modules. Magnets in one belt row attract magnets or paramagnetic material in adjacent rows to prevent vibration between rows that could shake a conveyed article out of its preferred position or orientation on the conveyor belt.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2012
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Applicant: LAITRAM, L.L.C.
    Inventor: David W. Bogle
  • Patent number: 8577496
    Abstract: An approach is provided to move an object across a surface using a grid of vertically-adjustable low friction transfer modules. A first set of transfer modules is selected from the grid, with the first set of modules being underneath the object. Back-side and front-side sets of modules are identified from the selected first set of modules, with the back-side sets being toward the back of the object opposite to the horizontal direction and the front-side sets being toward the front side of the object that faces the horizontal direction. The back-side and front-side sets are vertically adjusted so that the average of the back-side sets of vertical heights is higher than the average of the front-side sets of vertical heights. The vertical adjustment of the transfer modules causes the object to move across the tops of the transfer modules in the horizontal direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Nathan E. Masters, James Adam Oravec, Rodrigo Alberto Rey, Matthew Robert Sowders
  • Patent number: 8577497
    Abstract: An approach is provided to move an object across a surface using a grid of vertically-adjustable low friction transfer modules. A first set of transfer modules is selected from the grid, with the first set of modules being underneath the object. Back-side and front-side sets of modules are identified from the selected first set of modules, with the back-side sets being toward the back of the object opposite to the horizontal direction and the front-side sets being toward the front side of the object that faces the horizontal direction. The back-side and front-side sets are vertically adjusted so that the average of the back-side sets of vertical heights is higher than the average of the front-side sets of vertical heights. The vertical adjustment of the transfer modules causes the object to move across the tops of the transfer modules in the horizontal direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Nathan E. Masters, James Adam Oravec, Rodrigo Alberto Rey, Matthew Robert Sowders
  • Publication number: 20130284568
    Abstract: Disclosed is a conveyor chain (100) in which a large number of chain links (110) on which components are loaded are linked at hinge sections by means of hinge pins (120) and in which a plurality of free rollers are provided protruding from both the front and rear surfaces of the chain links (110), wherein the plurality of free rollers are each rotationally held in roller holders to form roller units (130) and are formed so as to be attachable from the longitudinal direction in a unit attachment region of the chain links (110). By means of the aforementioned structure, it is possible to replace worn components by means of a simple operation and it is unnecessary to replace chain links (110) which have not become worn, costs are reduced, and it is simple to change the rotation direction of the free rollers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2011
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Applicant: TSUBAKIMOTO CHAIN CO.
    Inventor: Yoshihiro Murakami
  • Publication number: 20130284569
    Abstract: A conveying chain for a conveying means of a conveying device, comprising a plurality of chain links connected to each other. The chain links are connected to each other by means of articulated connections so as to each be pivotable about a first axis and about a second axis oriented perpendicular to the first axis in order to form the conveying chain. The conveying chain is constructed of identical chain links. The chain links each comprise a receptacle on a first end section and a coupling body on a second end section that engages in the receptacle of an adjacent chain link, wherein the receptacle and the coupling body are shaped in such a way that the receptacle and the coupling body can be connected to each other by means of an insertion-rotation motion in order to form the articulated connection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2011
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Applicant: FERAG AG
    Inventor: Beat Studer
  • Publication number: 20130277182
    Abstract: A plate element of a conveyor and a conveyor which comprises a plurality of these plate elements. The plate element comprises a fastening device to fasten the plate element on a conveying element. A first overlapping region with prongs is formed on the element at a first end section. A second overlapping region with a guide base and projections arranged thereon is formed at a second end section which lies opposite the first end section of the plate element. The first overlapping region is complementary to the second overlapping region. The first overlapping region and the second overlapping region form at least a part of the plate conveying surface The projections of the guide base and the prongs are curved. Optionally, the prongs have a trapezoidal cross section. The guide base comprises at least one opening passing through the guide base between the projections.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2011
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: FERAG AG
    Inventor: Beat Studer
  • Publication number: 20130277183
    Abstract: A chain link of a conveying chain, containing a base body with a first end region which comprises a first coupling section for the articulated connection to a coupling section of a first adjacent chain link, and with a second end region which comprises a second coupling section for the articulated connection to a coupling section of a second adjacent chain link. The body comprises an intermediate region lying between the two end regions and includes a body section with bending-elastic characteristics, which is designed such that the first end region is elastically bendable relative to the second end region out of the longitudinal direction of the base body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2011
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: FERAG AG
    Inventor: Beat Studer
  • Publication number: 20130270073
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a lateral plate element (106, 206, 306) for a link (4) included in a self-stacking endless conveyor belt (1), in which the conveyor belt (1) extends helically along part of its length.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2011
    Publication date: October 17, 2013
    Applicant: JOHN BEAN TECHNOLOGIES AB
    Inventor: Goran Gramby
  • Publication number: 20130270074
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a lateral plate element (6, 6?) for a link means (4, 4?) included in a self-stacking endless conveyor belt (1), in which the conveyor belt (1) extends helically along part of its length. The lateral plate element, comprises an outer plate section (10), an inner plate section (20) and a bridging plate section (30) bridging said outer and inner plate sections (10, 20). Said outer plate section (10) comprises a top subsection (11) extending in a first plane and wherein said inner plate section (20) comprises a top subsection (21) extending in a second plane, said second plane being offset, in an inward direction (A), with regard to said first plane. Said outer plate section (10) further comprises a bottom subsection (12) arranged in a bottom part of said outer plate section (10) and extending in a third plane being offset in said inward direction (A) with regard to said first plane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 24, 2011
    Publication date: October 17, 2013
    Applicant: JOHN BEAN TECHNOLOGIES AB
    Inventors: Jonny Malmberg, Goran Gramby, Jan Solminger, Urban Wilthorn
  • Patent number: 8544637
    Abstract: A continuous conveyor belt (1) has a transporting side and a driving side (31). Arranged on the driving side (31) are driving ribs (2), spaced evenly apart in the running direction (9) of the conveyor belt and running transversely to the running direction (9) of the conveyor belt. The driving ribs (2) have lateral guiding elements (21) for longitudinally guiding the conveyor belt (1) on teeth of a driving element. These lateral guiding elements (21) are formed in the manner of crests of a wave. This ensures good cleanability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: Habasit AG
    Inventors: Viola Fleig, Edgar Von Gellhorn, Dieter Guldenfels
  • Patent number: 8544638
    Abstract: A conveyor belt includes a number of coupling elements, each having two links which are present on either side of a coupling element and which are each coupled to a link of an adjacent coupling element; a pin which extends between the two coupling elements and is connected to each of the two links; such that two mutually adjacent coupling elements can be moved out of the main plane and are mutually rotatable in the main plane. The conveyor belt has the feature that at least the most outward lying leg of a link has a third hole; the pin is inserted with its free end into the third hole of the link or a link of an adjacent coupling element; and the pin is substantially fixed relative to each link on the sides of the conveyor belt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Inventors: Hennie Hermanus Jozef Meulenkamp, Frans Bakker Beheer B.V.
  • Patent number: 8522962
    Abstract: A connector for connecting modular conveyor links to form a belt includes a rod-like core and a powder coating forming a protective shell. The core may be stainless steel and the powder coating may be nylon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Span Tech LLC
    Inventor: Mark D. Russell
  • Publication number: 20130213773
    Abstract: A spiral conveyor for positively driving a conveyor belt (20) along a helical path. The spiral conveyor includes a rotating cylindrical tower (10) with parallel drive members (14) extending from the bottom to the top of the tower on its periphery. Each drive member includes an outwardly protruding ridge (28) that varies in height from the bottom to the top of the tower. The variations in height facilitate the belt's entry onto and exit from the tower and robust, positive driving engagement with the inside edge of the belt along the majority of its path along the tower. In another version, a conveyor belt has teeth (62) with guide surfaces (78, 79) at the inside edge of the belt. The teeth guide the drive members between belt rows into driving engagement with drive faces at the inside edge of the belt.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2011
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Applicant: LAITRAM, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Casper Fedde Talsma, David W. Bogle
  • Patent number: 8499926
    Abstract: Modular belt module of the type having a width, and a length, where the width and length defines a plane, and a thickness orthogonal to said plane, such that the basic module is limited by two longitudinal sides, and a front and rear side, where the module along front and rear sides is provided with eye parts, spaced by openings, such that an eye part on one edge fits inside an opening between two eye parts on an adjacent module, whereby apertures provided in the eye parts parallel to the front and rear sides overlap and may accommodate a hinge pin, characterized in that adjacent and parallel to the two longitudinal sides, upstanding flanges are provided, where each flange is provided with means for accommodating an axle, arranged parallel to the front and rear sides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Ammeraal Beltech Modular A/S
    Inventors: Dieter Steinsträter, Carsten Seib
  • Patent number: 8474607
    Abstract: A multi-link conveyor chain is provided that includes a first plurality of links and a second plurality of links positioned along the length of the conveyor chain and collectively defining the conveyor chain. The first plurality of links has a wear surface that has enhanced wear resistance in relation to a conventional wear surface of the second plurality of links. The first plurality of links may be spaced in a pattern or randomly in the chain, in various percentages in relation to the second plurality of links.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Ramsey Products Corporation
    Inventor: William Carleton Hall
  • Patent number: 8474606
    Abstract: A link chain or a chain link for scraper chain conveyors with vertical and horizontal chain links which are interlinked in an articulated manner for scraper chain conveyors for use in mining. In particular to horizontal chain links with front sections with a straight face zone and with longitudinal limbs, which connect the front sections around an oval inner opening and which are provided on their outer surfaces with a recess, wherein the rear sides of front sections delimiting the inner opening form a contact zone for circular arcs of vertical chain links. In order to improve the service life of the link chain, the rear sides, which face oval inner opening, of front sections are provided with a surface which has a hollow, which forms a central region of the contact zone, between a fillet cambered in a crowned manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Caterpillar Global Mining Europe GmbH
    Inventors: Hans Meya, Gerhard Merten
  • Publication number: 20130140146
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a pitch for a modular conveyor belt. In some embodiments, the pitch may include a link having a first leg, including an opening formed in the first leg. The opening may be defined by a first edge, a second edge opposite the first edge, a first side edge, and a second side edge opposite the first side edge. In addition, the pitch may include a projection associated with the first edge. In a first position, the projection may extend substantially perpendicularly away from the first edge towards the second edge so that a free end of the projection is positioned proximate the second edge. Also, the projection may be configured to deflect to a second position, in which the free end of the projection is deflected within the opening towards one of the first side edge and the second side edge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2011
    Publication date: June 6, 2013
    Applicant: Ashworth Brothers, Inc.
    Inventors: Darroll Joseph Neely, Joseph A. Bowen
  • Patent number: 8453994
    Abstract: The invention relates to an engagement chain type driving device including a pair of driving sprockets, which rotate positively and reversely in opposite directions about a pair of rotating shafts, a pair of engagement chains, which engage with each other by the pair of driving sprockets so to be integrated together, and a driving source, which drives the pair of driving sprockets, wherein the engagement chain includes inner tooth plates and outer tooth plates, which each include buckling limiting flat surfaces, the inner tooth plates and outer tooth plates being brought opposite to each other and into contact with each other when the engagement chains are integrated by the pair of driving sprockets, such that the flat surfaces hold the chain engagement position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: Tsubakimoto Chain Co.
    Inventors: Tomoo Suko, Kohei Nakanishi, Tomoyuki Saji, Yoshifumi Takeuchi, Satoshi Ueda, Naoto Shibata
  • Publication number: 20130112531
    Abstract: Zero tension system conveyor. A conveyor belt is driven by at least a portion of the conveyor belt being in continuous contact with a block chain within at least a portion of an overall conveyor belt system. Such a conveyor belt system may be implemented in a spiral configuration such that a relatively small portion of the overall width of the conveyor belt is in contact with the block chain above and/or below the conveyor belt. The static force/weight of the conveyor belt in conjunction with the continuous contact between at least a portion of the conveyor belt and the block chain effectuates the driving of the conveyor belt through the overall conveyor belt system. The block chain is composed of a number of links, at least some of which include a respective hook/protrusion on one side thereof, for being directly engaged by drum bars implemented within a drum assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: ZERO TENSION SYSTEM, LLC
    Inventor: Zero Tension System, LLC
  • Patent number: 8430235
    Abstract: A module for a modular conveyor mat includes a substantially flat metal body part having front and rear sides extending transversely to a conveying direction (P). Projections spaced apart by intermediate spaces form hinge loops attached to the body part. A plastic cover forming a conveying surface is attached to the body part and extends over and around at least one of the hinge loops. The invention also relates to a modular conveyor mat, comprising a multiple number of the modules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Rexnord Flattop Europe B.V.
    Inventors: Cornelis Hendrik Mijndert Menke, Gijsbertus Johannes Verduyn
  • Patent number: 8424667
    Abstract: The invention relates to a moving walkway comprising a moving belt (1) formed by a series of pallets (3) consecutively hinged to one another by means of elements (4-5) forming part of the pallets themselves and forms drive means through which the stress of the pulling mechanism is transmitted between pallets (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Thyssenkrupp Norte, S.A.
    Inventors: Miguel Angel Gonzalez Alemany, Juan Domingo Gonzalez Pantiga, Manuel Alonso Cuello
  • Patent number: 8397904
    Abstract: An environmentally controlled conveyor system including a sensor-instrumented conveyor belt conveying products continuously through a thermal-treatment process and a method for determining the instantaneous position of the sensors. Temperature or other sensors are embedded in the conveyor belt across its width and along its length to advance with the product through the thermal-treatment process, such as through a pasteurizer tunnel. The sensor measurements are transmitted wirelessly from the belt to a remote system controller for monitoring or controlling the system. Data from sensors measuring environmental or belt conditions are used to determine the instantaneous positions of the sensors to coordinate the sensor data with sensor position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Laitram, L.L.C.
    Inventor: David W. Bogle
  • Patent number: 8397903
    Abstract: A modular belt conveyor (12), in particular curving or helical conveyor, including a number of mutually interconnected modular belt conveyor links (14) that together form a common curving or helical conveyor with an inner and outer belt edge, respectively, of which at least one belt edge, preferably the inner belt edge, interacts by inter-spaced, preferably vertical curve guides, wherein at the belt edge or edges interacting with the curve guide, each of the belt conveyor links (14) are either provided with an edge reinforcement or are fitted with an edge element (20), the edge reinforcement or edge element (20), respectively, together with the corresponding adjacent belt conveyor link (14) forming a substantially closed guide surface (34) at the belt edge in question. In a simple way and by means of simple technical means are hereby achieved the possibility of counteracting the said problems of lateral incisions or apertures at the inner or outer belt edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Ammeraal Beltech Modular A/S
    Inventor: Kenneth Westergaard Andersen