Formed Of Or Including Pivotally Interconnected Rigid Links Patents (Class 198/850)
  • Patent number: 7931139
    Abstract: A pasteurizer with a conveyor belt for transporting the goods to be pasteurized, the conveyor belt having an endless structure 39 comprising several metal bodies 13, 22, and several plastic pieces 30 forming the conveyor surface 38 being coupled to the structure 39. Also, a conveyor belt, in particular for a pasteurizer, comprising an endless structure having several metal bodies, with several plastic pieces 30 forming the conveyor surface 38 being coupled to the structure 39. Also, a conveyor belt, in particular for a pasteurizer, the conveyor belt 3 comprising several identical modules 29 in the longitudinal as well as in the transverse direction, each module 29 having several identical bodies in the longitudinal as well as in the transverse direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: Sander Hansen A/S
    Inventor: Jorgen T. Nielsen
  • Publication number: 20110088367
    Abstract: A link chain comprises a chain link including two shank portions and two arc portions connecting the two shank portions. The two shank portions and the two arc portions define an interior space of the first chain link; and a dividing element extends inwardly from an inside surface of one of the two shank portions and extends inwardly from the inside surface of the other shank portion. The dividing element divides the interior space into two movement spaces, and the dividing element has a centerline, and the centerline is not a straight line perpendicular to the shank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2009
    Publication date: April 21, 2011
    Applicant: JOY MM DELAWARE, INC.
    Inventors: Gordon Powell, Craig Bowkett
  • Patent number: 7918331
    Abstract: A conveying device (100) according to the invention includes several conveying bodies (102), which roll on a guidance (101) via several rolls (3), wherein the rolls (3) are connected and mutually distanced by means of a flexible connecting body (9). The conveying bodies (102) include means (103; 104, 105) for mutual support, which prevent a movement of the conveying bodies (102) out of the guidance (101). A connecting body (9) and allocated rolls (3) form a roll body (2), wherein the roll body (2), on average, includes two or less than two rolls (3) per conveying body (102). A roll body (2) for a conveying device (100) includes a plurality of rolls (3) mutually connected in a linear manner, wherein the rolls (3) are mutually connected and distanced by means of a flexible and in particular also elastic connecting body (9). In a preferred embodiment, the connecting body (9) may be bent in at least two directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Assignee: WRH Walter Reist Holding AG
    Inventors: Walter Reist, Erwin Müller
  • Patent number: 7896766
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a side bow conveyor chain whose respective chain links are interconnected by a chain hinge which is adapted to be pivoted about a first and a second axis, said chain hinge comprising a pivot bolt which is arranged along said first axis, a pivot pin which is arranged along said second axis and through which the pivot bolt extends, and a reception sleeve, which extends along the second axis and in which the pivot pin is pivotable relative to the reception sleeve about said second axis. The reception sleeve is provided with lateral pivot openings which allow the pivot bolt to pass through.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: iwis antriebssysteme GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Frank Mitzschke, Wolfgang Janzen, Jens Sumpf, Sven Eichhorn, Klaus Nendel
  • Patent number: 7878323
    Abstract: A conveyor for conveying products along a conveying track with varying temperature, comprising a first axle provided with first divert wheels and a second axle provided with second divert wheels and a plurality of modular, endless conveyor mats built up from plastic modules, travelling in side-by-side parallel relation in a conveying direction around the first and second divert wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Rexnord Flattop Europe B.V.
    Inventors: Michael Van Rees, Cornelis Hendrik Mijndert Menke, Gijsbertus Johannes Verduijn
  • Publication number: 20110017576
    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: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2010
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Inventor: Kenneth Westergaard Andersen
  • Patent number: 7854315
    Abstract: A conveyor support plate includes an upper transport surface configured to receive objects arranged for travel on a conveyor system and a lower surface arranged opposite the upper transport surface. A pair of transversely extending walls and a pair of side walls connect the upper transport surface and the lower surface. A plurality of cavities are formed in the lower surface between the pair of transversely extending walls and the pair of side walls that terminate below the upper transport surface. The cavities are configured to receive a roller that extends through the lower surface to support the support plate during travel on the convey system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Assignee: Roxnord Industries, LLC
    Inventors: James C. Stebnicki, Robert E. Mitchell
  • Patent number: 7850001
    Abstract: A modular conveyor belt having longitudinal grooves on the top and bottom of the belt. Pairs of rollers are installed between the links within these grooves such that the rollers do not project over the surface of the belt but are completely integrated into the body. The rollers may be installed directly onto the pivot rods. The belts are supported by rails that enter into the longitudinal grooves to engage with the rollers to carry the belt as it moves. The grooves on the bottom side of the single modules are curved in such a way that the slots form a circle when the belt moves around a sprocket. This configuration allows for steel disks to be installed between the sprockets on the driving and idling shaft. The disks help to support the belt and to improve smooth running of the belts around the sprocket under a high load by taking the radial forces acting when the belt is under high tension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: Habasit AG
    Inventor: Michal Krisl
  • Patent number: 7837029
    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: September 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Assignee: Span Tech LLC
    Inventor: Mark D. Russell
  • Patent number: 7837028
    Abstract: A radius chain conveyor structure and method for traveling along curved paths in both left and right directions and having the capability to carry very small and delicate articles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Assignee: Habasit AG
    Inventor: Dietmar Elsner
  • Patent number: 7828136
    Abstract: A conveyor is described comprising an endless side-flexing conveyor belt made from a number of rows of hinged interconnected belt links, where each row comprises at least one link, where each link has a front end, a back end, a top surface, a bottom surface and two sides, where hinge parts separated by apertures are arranged along the front end and the back end such that front hinge parts on the front end will fit inside apertures on the back end of an adjacent belt link, and where the front end and back end are substantially parallel to a first axis parallel to the width direction of the link, wherein the hinge parts of each link are defined by a top and bottom that are substantially flush with the top and bottom surfaces respectively, and two side surfaces and a free front surface, and that at least some of the front hinge parts are provided with a protrusion on one or both side surfaces, where these protrusions fit inside elongated apertures provided in the side surfaces of the rear hinge parts on the oppo
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: Uni-Chains A/S
    Inventor: Poul Erik Damkjaer
  • Patent number: 7810636
    Abstract: A conveyor chain has outer and inner first link plates which run on the same side of the conveyor chain and second outer and inner link plates which run on a second side of the conveyor chain, the second side being opposite the first side, wherein the outer first link plates have a larger area than the inner first link plates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Urs Jenny
  • Patent number: 7810629
    Abstract: A device for dynamic storage of objects along a conveying section between an input station and an output station with an endless, flexible conveying means, which is variably subdivided into a conveying strand and an idle strand, with at least one carriage, which can be moved in the plane of conveyance, for changing the storage capacity, which carriage presents a first deflection for the conveying strand and a second deflection for the idle strand, as well as with a first drive device for the conveying means in the area of the input station and a second drive device for the conveying means in the area of the output station. The conveying means is provided over its entire length at identical intervals with grippers for the objects and the conveying means has a link chain, equipped with rotatable guide rollers, which runs at least in some areas in at least one stationary guide rail, where at least one guide roller is arranged on the respective chain link in a movable manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: Krones AG
    Inventors: Volker Kronseder, Heinz Humele, Wolfgang Hausladen, Alexander Kaiser
  • Patent number: 7789221
    Abstract: A conveyor belt having rodless, living hinges and a method for making such a belt. One version of the belt has spaced apart belt modules joined by tension members spanning the gaps between consecutive modules. The tension members bend in the gaps to allow the belt to articulate. Resilient fillers encapsulate the tension members and, together with top surfaces of the modules, form a generally continuous article-contacting belt surface. The belt may be made by molding the rigid belt modules and the resilient fillers onto an arrangement of elongated tension members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Assignee: Laitram, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Robert S. Lapeyre, Philip M. LeBlanc, Kevin W. Guernsey
  • Patent number: 7775347
    Abstract: An assembly for hingedly coupling parts of a conveyor comprising a first conveyor part (2) provided with a row of hinge eyes positioned in alignment, and an end hinge eye (7b) with an enlarged hinge hole (8b) which is positioned somewhat out of alignment and with a locking surface adjacent to the hinge hole and positioned in alignment The assembly further comprises a second part (3) such that the conveyor parts can cooperate in a coupled condition by receiving hinge eyes in corresponding interspaces, and a hinge pin provided with a central body part (3) such that the conveyor parts can cooperate in a coupled condition by receiving hinge eyes in corresponding interspaces and a hinge pin provided with a central body part (15) with a thickened head (16) which is able to pass the end hinge hole (8b), but not the next hinge hole (12) in coupled condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Rexnord Flattop Europe B.V.
    Inventor: Leonardus Adrianus Catharinus Cornelissen
  • Patent number: 7770718
    Abstract: A conveyor includes a conveyor belt, a plurality of rollers, and a flight. The rollers have lower surfaces configured to engage a roller-engagement surface, and upper surfaces that substantially form a plane, such that the rollers engage the roller-engagement surface and rotate to move an object supported by the rollers over the plane. The flight includes a cam configured to engage a cam surface below the conveyor belt to impart a moment on the flight, and a projection that responds to the moment by rotating from a retracted position to an extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Laitram, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Matthew L. Fourney
  • Patent number: 7766159
    Abstract: A modular belt having a first belt module and a second belt module intercalated and locked into position by a pivot rod having a head at one end and a retaining ring disposed in spaced apart relation relative to the head along the longitudinal axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: Habasit AG
    Inventor: Michal Krisl
  • Patent number: 7762391
    Abstract: A conveyor chain comprising a plurality of substantially identical alternate elongated metal main links, each of which have a longitudinally extending opening therein which define U-shaped pivot pin receiving portions at the opposite ends thereof. A non-metallic U-shaped insert is positioned in each of the U-shaped pivot pin receiving portions. The chain also includes alternate pairs of substantially identical upper and lower metal links between the main links with metal pivot pins interconnecting the main links and the upper and lower links. The metal pivot pins are received by the U-shaped inserts. Modified forms of the pivot pins and inserts are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Inventor: Todd G. Jager
  • Patent number: 7757841
    Abstract: A hingeless belt comprises modules having opposed leading and trailing sides, first and second bases and opposed outer sides. The modules are connected to joining members with layers that can be, for example, an adhesive. The joining members comprise an elastic material which allows the modular belt to bend and flex, and the modules are made of a hard thermoplastic material. The modules and joining members resists cuts and impacts, the modules and joining members are easy to clean and keep sanitary. The joining members are embodied with different shapes for enhancing the connection with the modules, and for enhancing the flexibility of the modular belt as it carries load and as it is driven around a sprocket. There is a molding machine having mold members for making the hingeless belt. There is also a method of making the hingeless belt in the molding machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Assignee: Habasit AG
    Inventor: Sergio Fandella
  • Patent number: 7757838
    Abstract: A link of a conveyor chain, connectable to similar links comprising a main base body with two shoulders, which protrude upward from the ends of the transverse sides of the main base body and are parallel to the direction of advancement of the chain. Ends of a pair of first and second shafts are associated with the pair of shoulders, first rollers being rotatably associated with the shafts. Second rollers are associated on the pair of first and second shafts, have a smaller diameter than the first rollers, and are supported in a loading condition by first supporting elements, activatable under load and protruding from the main base body. The link further comprises a slider, supported by at least one pair of second supporting elements, protruding from the main base body and has free ends supported on the base body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Assignee: Habasit AG
    Inventor: Sergio Fandella
  • Publication number: 20100155200
    Abstract: A push body for transmitting push forces in a conveyor device includes a link having, at a first end, a first joint element formed by a joint body and, at a second end, a second joint element formed by a joint socket. The joint elements are shaped corresponding to one another. At least one of the joint elements is provided with a protective element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2009
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Applicant: WRH WALTER REIST HOLDING AG
    Inventor: Walter Reist
  • Patent number: 7735637
    Abstract: A conveyor belt is made with a series of spaced apart buttonless rods. The buttonless rods are connected to each other with a plurality of links. The buttonless ends of the rods are welded or otherwise affixed to the links so that the ends of the rods are substantially coplanar with the outer surface of the links. This forms a relatively smooth link surface, which is readily cleaned and sanitized. Additionally, wear and tear is reduced on driving grip surfaces that frictionally grab onto the links.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: Ashworth Bros., Inc.
    Inventors: Jack Montgomery, Craig Musselman, Joseph Fout, Paul Steinhoff
  • Patent number: 7731020
    Abstract: A conveyor assembly is provided, which includes a link belt formed of a plurality of overlapping belt links. A plurality of engagement elements are attached to the link belt to form an upper surface. In one embodiment, the link belt includes a plurality of apertures and the engagement elements comprises connectors that cooperate with the apertures to connect the engagement elements to the link belt. The upper surface of the engagement elements may be configured in a variety of forms. In one embodiment, the engagement elements comprise a protuberance that projects upwardly to form a point of limited contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: Fenner U.S., Inc.
    Inventors: Jeremy M Bigler, Ryan Van Duyn, Francis B Fatato
  • Patent number: 7726469
    Abstract: A section of chain for conveying product along a material handling system includes a pin connecting a center link between two side links. The pin may be dialable or selectably positioned at the side links to control and adjust the wear surface of the pin relative to the chain links. The pin may have a rotationally non-symmetrical shaft portion to provide different wear surfaces that engage a center link of the section of chain. The different wear surfaces may be sized and shaped to accommodate wear at the wear surface of the center link. The shaft portion may include a rotationally non-symmetrical ball member or portion on the shaft portion to enhance flexibility of the section of chain. The pin may be dialed to the next position or wear surface in response to an output of a wear measurement device or system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Frost Links, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles C. Frost, Jonathan M. Rathbun, Ryan L. Kastamo
  • Patent number: 7721877
    Abstract: A conveyor belt system includes a splice rod having a j-shaped hook on each end thereof and a plurality of links for receiving the splice rod therethrough. The links further include a specially modified link end for securing the rods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: Cambridge International, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert E. Maine, Jr., George Howard Messick, Jr., Charles Hennigar, Chetwyn Jones
  • Publication number: 20100108467
    Abstract: A system and method for transferring a vehicle from a first dual belt conveyor to a second dual belt conveyor utilizes transitions between the belts of the first and second conveyors which are offset along a direction of travel. The offset transitions result in only one wheel of the vehicle at a time crossing a transition. The transitions utilize fixed rollers positioned on either side of a plurality of recirculation rollers. The fixed rollers minimize the gap between the ends of the belts and the transitions while permitting the belts, particularly with cleats, to pass by the fixed rollers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2008
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Applicants: PETRO-CANADA, ECLIPSE AUTOMATION, INC.
    Inventors: Bernard G. BARREYRE, Steven W. MAI, Brett BUNSTON
  • Patent number: 7703601
    Abstract: A hybrid mesh belt having a mesh portion with side edges attached to modular plastic chains. The chains are provided with cavities on the bottom side. The cavities are suitable for engaging with driving sprockets that engage with the chains.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Habasit AG
    Inventors: Jeffrey E. DeLair, Joseph G. Szymborski
  • Publication number: 20100089724
    Abstract: A conveyor for conveying piece goods or the like through a helical path around a central axis in a vertical direction includes a frame which supports an endless conveyor belt that is movable along the helical path in a conveying direction. The conveyor belt includes carrier plates which are movably connected to each other. The frame includes at least a guide and at least a number of carrier plates comprise at least a guide roller rotatable about an axis of rotation. The guide roller has at least a first guide roller surface which is in contact with the guide in a first contact location, and a second guide roller surface which is in contact with the guide in a second contact location. The first and second contact locations are spaced from each other and the normal to the first guide roller surface in the first contact location deviates from the normal to the second guide roller surface in the second contact location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2007
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Applicant: SPECIALTY CONVEYOR B.V.
    Inventors: Johannes Wilhelmus Broers, Jozef Walter Maria Hopman, Wouter Balk
  • Patent number: 7690501
    Abstract: A conveyor module includes a plurality of first projections extending in a first direction. Each of the first projections include a hinge hole for receiving a first hinge pin. A plurality of second projections extends in a second direction substantially opposed to the first direction. Each of the second projections include a hinge hole for receiving a second hinge pin. A reinforcement bracket nests with at least a portion of one of the second projections. The reinforcement bracket includes a first hinge hole aligned with the hinge holes in each of the first projections for receiving the first hinge pin. The reinforcement bracket further includes a second hinge hole aligned with the hinge holes in the one of second projections for receiving the second hinge pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: Rexnord Flattop Europe B.V.
    Inventors: Cornelis Hendrik Myndert Menke, Gijsbertus Johannes Verduijn
  • Publication number: 20100078297
    Abstract: Modular belt link for use in endless conveyor belts where each modular belt link has a top surface, a bottom surface having a material thickness between said top and bottom surfaces, a leading and trailing edge, and side edges arranged connecting said leading and trailing edge and said top and bottom surfaces, and where means are arranged along said leading and trailing edge for hingely connecting adjacent modular belt links characterised in that an endless belt is arranged for rotation around at least a portion of the modular belt link.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2009
    Publication date: April 1, 2010
    Inventor: Kenneth Westergaard Andersen
  • Patent number: 7681718
    Abstract: A conveyor assembly includes a module having a detachably fixed reinforcement link to simplify modular conveyor assembly, disassembly, and repair. The module includes a first link end extending in a first direction from a leading edge and a second link end extending in a second direction from a trailing edge. The first link end includes a first aperture for receiving a first link pin connecting the module to an adjacent module. The second link end includes a second aperture for receiving a second link pin connecting the module to another adjacent module. A reinforcement link is detachably fixed to the module. The reinforcement link includes a third aperture aligned with the first aperture for receiving the first link pin. And, the reinforcement link includes a fourth aperture aligned with the second aperture for receiving the second link pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Assignee: Rexnord Industries, LLC
    Inventors: James C. Stebnicki, Kevin S. Hansen
  • Publication number: 20100051424
    Abstract: An engagement chain in which a buckling strength of a pair of engagement chains engaged with each other is improved without blocking engagement operations between inner tooth plates and between outer tooth plate. The chain includes inner tooth plates, bushes, outer tooth plates and connecting pins. Buckling limiting flat surfaces of adjoining plates are brought into surface contact with each other when opposing segments of the chain are integrated together by driving sockets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2009
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicant: TSUBAKIMOTO CHAIN CO.
    Inventors: Tomoo Suko, Kohei Nakanishi, Tomoyuki Saji
  • Publication number: 20100038215
    Abstract: Conveyor belt, of the type used in endless conveyors, where said conveyor belt is made from a plurality of belt links, where each belt link is substantially identical, where each belt link is defined by a front edge, a rear edge, two side edges, and an upper surface and an under surface between said edges, where front and rear relate to the direction of travel in use characterised in that the front edge of each belt link is provided with an indentation and the rear edge is provided with a mirror image of said indentation, such that the front edge of one belt link may snugly fit in the rear edge of an adjacent belt link.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2009
    Publication date: February 18, 2010
    Applicant: AMMERAAL BELTECH MODULAR A/S
    Inventor: Peter BROE
  • Patent number: 7661524
    Abstract: An endless side-flexing conveyor is described comprising a conveyor belt made from a number of rows of hinged interconnected belt links, where each row comprises at least one link, where each link has a front end, a back end, a top surface, a bottom surface and two sides, where hinge parts separated by apertures are arranged along the front end and the back end such that front hinge parts on the front end will fit inside apertures on the back end of an adjacent belt link, and where the front end and back end are substantially parallel to a first axis parallel to the width direction of the link, wherein the hinge parts of each link are defined by a top and bottom which are substantially flush with the top and bottom surfaces respectively, and two side surfaces and a free front surface, and that the front hinge parts on one end of each link are provided with a protrusion on each side surface, where the protrusions fit inside elongated apertures provided in the side surfaces of the rear hinge parts on the opposi
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Assignee: Ped Invest A/S
    Inventor: Poul Erik Damkjaer
  • Patent number: 7658277
    Abstract: An endless conveyor belt comprises a number of links which are each coupled to an adjacent link by means of a hinge. Added to each link is a carrier which has a discrete, flat first carrying surface which consists of the outer surfaces of a number of mutually coupled plates extending with second mutual intermediate spaces in longitudinal direction of the conveyor belt, wherein corresponding plates of adjacent links lie in the same plane. In the second intermediate space there fits a row, extending in transverse direction, of fixedly disposed fingers which extend in longitudinal direction and form a discrete, flat second carrying surface which, at the position of co-action with the first carrying surface, lies in the same plane as this first carrying surface, which fingers are disposed at the end of the active part of the conveyor belt and can take over for further transport objects fed by this conveyor belt in sliding manner while being pushed by objects fed by this conveyor belt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Assignee: Twentebelt B.V.
    Inventor: Hennie Hermanus Jozef Meulenkamp
  • Publication number: 20100025200
    Abstract: A hingeless belt comprises modules having opposed leading and trailing sides, first and second bases and opposed outer sides. The modules are connected to joining members by direct molding or with layers that can be, for example, an adhesive. The joining members comprise an elastic material which allows the modular belt to bend and flex, and the modules are made of a hard thermoplastic material. The modules and joining members resists cuts and impacts, the modules and joining members are easy to clean and keep sanitary. The joining members are embodied with different shapes for enhancing the connection with the modules, and for enhancing the flexibility of the modular belt as it carries load and as it is driven around a sprocket. There is a molding machine having mold members for making the hingeless belt. There is also a method of making the hingeless belt in the molding machine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2009
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Inventor: Sergio Fandella
  • Publication number: 20100012456
    Abstract: The present invention provides a conveyor belt (1), comprising a metallic net belt (8) functionally driven by at least a traction drum (5), tensioned by at least a return drum (12) and supported by a plurality of independent transversal rollers (13). Belt (1) supports individually a plurality of plates (2) partially overlapping one another, so as to form a flat continuous transport surface as a mobile reliable plane that is resistant to extreme mechanical stress. Each of said plates (2) is suitably shaped so that an upper portion of one plate overlaps a lower portion of the following plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2006
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Applicant: MAGALDI POWER S.P.A.
    Inventor: Mario Magaldi
  • Patent number: 7624858
    Abstract: A modular plastic conveyor belt, formed of successive rows of assembled injection molded modules connected by laterally-extending pins, has arched tops in each module row and increased depth in the laterally-extending spine of the belt. The belt structure enables the modular plastic belt to be retrofitted in a spiral system normally carrying a steel conveyor belt. In one embodiment the arched-top module rows, having a greater depth than normal, are accommodated on a small-diameter roller, by forming a generally cylindrical undercut at the bottom of each module row, reducing the distance of protrusion outwardly from the roller. The arched-top configuration lends itself not only to transfer of articles as the conveyor passes over the sprocket for a roller, but also the provision of increased beam depth at the center of the module, with lower profiles at the extremities of the link ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: Habasit AG
    Inventors: Jeffrey Earl Delair, William J. Bickel, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7621114
    Abstract: A link belt for use as a conveyor belt or power transmission belt is provided. The belt is formed of a plurality of links forming a series in successive overlapping relation. The upper surface of each belt link includes an electrically conductive layer. Additionally, the lower surface of each belt link may have an electrically conductive layer. The conductive layer or layers provide an electrical path along the belt to impede the build-up of static electricity as the belt is run during use. Further a method for producing the conveyor is provided. A plurality of layers of reinforcing material is arranged in overlapping relation. A binding material such as a thermoset urethane is deposited on the composite material, forming a conductive layer. The combined conductive layer and composite material are cured so that the conductive layer permanently bonds to the composite material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Assignee: Fenner U.S., Inc.
    Inventor: Jeremy M. Bigler
  • Publication number: 20090283388
    Abstract: A conveyor chain link where the link is defined by a leading edge, a trailing edge, two opposed side edges, a load carrying upper surface, and a bottom face, wherein along the leading edge is provided a plurality of eye parts separated by openings and where the link along the trailing edge is provided with a plurality of eye parts separated by openings, such that the eye parts on the trailing edge of one belt link may be arranged in the openings arranged on the leading edge of an adjacent belt link, and the belt links may be connected either by inserting a traverse rod through apertures provided in the lateral direction in the eye parts or by fitting lateral notches provided on the sides of the eye parts along one edge in slots provided on the sides of the eye parts on the opposite edge, characterised in that between the leading and trailing edge and the side edges a load carrying surface is defined, where said surface at least for a part of the surface has a one sided inclination towards one side edge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2008
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Inventors: Kenneth Westergaard Andersen, Peter Broe
  • Publication number: 20090272632
    Abstract: The invention relates to a link chain for scraper chain conveyors with vertical chain links which are interlinked in an articulated manner and horizontal chain links, wherein vertical chain links have around the full circumference a constant cross-sectional profile provided on the outside with a flat section and on the inside with a circular arc and horizontal chain links have front sections which have a straight front zone, wherein longitudinal limbs, which connect front sections, of horizontal chain links are provided on their outer faces with a recess.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2006
    Publication date: November 5, 2009
    Inventors: Gerhard Merten, Hans Meya
  • Patent number: 7611007
    Abstract: A conveyor system is provided having a first pin (18); a first link block (11) carrying the first pin (18); a first offset bushing (17) on the first pin (18); and a second link block (11) carrying the first offset bushing (17), the second link block (11) movable with respect to the first link block (11) upon rotation of the first offset bushing (17) with respect to the second link block (11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: Pteris Global Limited
    Inventors: Yee Min Lim, Jayagopi Muthiah
  • Publication number: 20090266683
    Abstract: A conveyor having conveyor chain 100 adapted to be engaged and driven by drums 180 and 190 having spiral flights. The conveyor chain has a number of interconnected conveying modules 120, 140,150 and 160. Selected modules 120 are aligned in the direction of travel parallel to the axis of rotation of the drums. Each of the aligned modules has a traveling guide socket 122 on the back surface, which engages with flight portions 180a and 190a of the spiral drums, so that the chain is advanced by the rotation of the drums. The modules are rectangular and are interconnected in columns and rows, preferably in a brick pattern.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2009
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventors: Hajime Ozaki, Katsutoshi Shibayama, Satoshi Hotchi, Tsuyoshi Nakamura, Fukukazu Kato
  • Publication number: 20090260957
    Abstract: A modular conveyor belt having longitudinal grooves on the top and bottom of the belt. Pairs of rollers are installed between the links within these grooves such that the rollers do not project over the surface of the belt but are completely integrated into the body. The rollers may be installed directly onto the pivot rods. The belts are supported by rails that enter into the longitudinal grooves to engage with the rollers to carry the belt as it moves. The grooves on the bottom side of the single modules are curved in such a way that the slots form a circle when the belt moves around a sprocket. This configuration allows for steel disks to be installed between the sprockets on the driving and idling shaft. The disks help to support the belt and to improve smooth running of the belts around the sprocket under a high load by taking the radial forces acting when the belt is under high tension.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2008
    Publication date: October 22, 2009
    Inventor: Michal Krisl
  • Patent number: 7604113
    Abstract: A chain wheel arrangement for driving or reversing stations of underground scraper chain conveyors, comprising a chain wheel (1), a chain-wheel shaft (3) comprising a splined portion (11) between two offset-diameter shaft stub portions and to which the chain wheel (1) can be fastened in rotational engagement by axial sliding on to it, also comprising bearing shells (5) receiving bearings for the chain-wheel shaft (3), disposed on each side of the chain wheel (1) and adapted to be fastened in bearing-shell recesses, open at the edges, in the side cheeks of the driving or reversing station, also comprising bearing support rings (26) which abut the outer cage (4B) of the bearings (4), and securing means comprising spacer sleeves (16) for axially securing the chain wheel (1) relative to the splined portion (11), in which the spacer sleeves (16) rest loosely between the bearings (4A) and the chain wheel (1), wherein a clamping cover (30) is fastened to at least one shaft end (13) and presses against a clamping sle
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2009
    Assignee: DBT GmbH
    Inventors: Andreas Pluszynski, Karl-Heinz Schurer, Reinhold Bruggemann
  • Patent number: 7600633
    Abstract: A pin assembly for a chain of a material handling system includes a pin element and an attachment element. The pin element includes a shaft portion, a head portion at an end of the shaft portion, and an attachment portion at an end of the shaft portion opposite the head portion. The attachment element is configured to attach to the attachment portion of the pin element, and is positionable at the attachment portion and is retainable thereto. The attachment element may comprise a second head portion to define an I-type pin assembly or may comprise a side link and pusher member construction or other element or member. A mounting extension may extend from the attachment portion for mounting an object to the pin assembly after the attachment is attached to the pin element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2009
    Assignee: Frost Links, Inc.
    Inventors: Jonathan M. Rathbun, Wayne E. Schmidt, Charles C. Frost
  • Publication number: 20090250321
    Abstract: A series of rows of belt modules wherein a first one of the rows may have a plurality of hinge elements along an end of the first row. A second one of the rows may have a plurality of hinge elements along an end of the second row. The plurality of hinge elements of the first row may be interleaved with the plurality of hinge elements of the second row. A pivot rod may extend through the plurality of hinge elements of both the first row and the second row so as to pivotally join the first row to the second row. A sphere may be supported from a first module of the first row and supported from a second module of the first row, so that the sphere resides between the first module and the second module and so that the sphere extends above the modules in order to allow an object, which is to be conveyed by the conveyor belt, to be supported on the sphere. The modules may be moved in a belt travel direction in order to convey the object from a first location to a second location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2009
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Inventors: Michal Krisl, Dieter Guldenfels
  • Publication number: 20090250326
    Abstract: A conveyor chain has outer and inner first link plates which run on the same side of the conveyor chain and second outer and inner link plates which run on a second side of the conveyor chain, the second side being opposite the first side, wherein the outer first link plates have a larger area than the inner first link plates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2009
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Applicant: ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
    Inventor: Urs Jenny
  • Publication number: 20090218199
    Abstract: A component subjected to wear during use includes a powder coating formed of a polymer selected from the group consisting of a polyamide, polyolefin, polyester, urethane, epoxy, acrylic, and mixtures thereof to provide improved wear resistance, enhanced cleanability, and reduced surface friction. Preferably, the component is for use in conveying product, such as in a conveyor system, and includes: (1) a metal core and a nylon powder coating; or (2) a stainless steel core and a powder coating. Most preferably, the coating is generally clear or translucent so as to give the appearance that the underlying component, which is typically made of metal, is neither coated nor made entirely of a polymer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2007
    Publication date: September 3, 2009
    Inventor: Mark D. Russell
  • Patent number: 7575113
    Abstract: A modular belt constructed of belt modules having a large open area, making the belt suitable for use as a traveling water screen. The modules include an intermediate portion composed of intersecting sets of link elements and transverse elements that form a gridlike pattern. Openings bounded by the walls of consecutive link elements and transverse elements form channels through the belt for the flow of water. The modules are connected together by hinge rods to form a belt that can be used as a water screen. Detachable flights or scoops for lifting debris or fish out of a stream are attachable to base modules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Assignee: Laitram, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Kyle J. Sedlacek, Mitchell G. Pansano, Jr., Gilbert J. MacLachlan