Abstract: A conveyor system is provided including a modular link conveyor belt forming an endless loop and requiring no inverted return run. The conveyor belt is comprised of a plurality of modular links with at least one of the modular links having an angled cleat depending downwardly therefrom. A screw driving means is provided for engaging the angled cleat(s). Specifically, the screw driving means includes a screw having a thread wherein the thread advantageously engages the angled cleat(s) for providing a positive driving force to the conveyor belt.

Abstract: A conveyor system having an improved conveyor transfer assembly is provided for transferring articles from the end of a first conveyor to the start of a second, in-line conveyor. The conveying surface of the transfer assembly is formed by rollers driven by a magnetic coupling system which delivers power from an independent power source. In addition, magnets are used for providing a positive attachment between the conveyor transfer assembly and the conveyor supports which span between the first and second conveyors. Thus, when an article jam occurs adjacent to the transfer assembly, the positive magnet attachment is overcome and, likewise, the magnetic coupling between the power source and the rollers is also overcome thereby releasing the power connection. This allows the transfer assembly to be bodily lifted and released to prevent damage to the articles. The transfer assembly may also contain a tether connected to the frame to restrain and suspend the transfer assembly following its release.

Abstract: A modular link conveyor including a plurality of modular link assemblies made up of links of an improved design assembled to create a closely interdigitating conveying surface is disclosed. The improved links eliminate undesirable gaps or openings in the conveying surface. Particularly, the improved links include a forwardly extending tongue, projecting from the leading apex of the link, which occupies an open space between the trailing apexes of the legs of the next forward link, thus minimizing the tendency of foreign objects from falling into the open space. The topside of the tongue is tapered downward so as to lift free any objects present in the open spaces primarily while the conveyor is maneuvering through a turn. A forwardly projecting finger, positioned between adjoining links, is also provided for filling a void between the adjoining links. The finger aids in dislodging any foreign objects present in an opening between the legs of the next forward adjoining link, also primarily during turning.

Abstract: A conveyor system with an improved roller transfer assembly is provided for transferring articles from the end of a first conveyor to the start of a second, in-line conveyor. A conveying surface is formed by a plurality of rollers that span substantially the entire space across the transfer zone. The conveyor transfer assembly includes a plurality of shafts extending transversely across the zone, a mounting block at each end for supporting the shafts, which blocks are secured within a holding pan. The support for the assembly includes a pair of tabs on each end of the pan that cooperate with a respective pair of open notches on a pair of frame plates. In turn, the plates are secured at the ends of the transfer zone to the frame of the conveyor system. A pair of angular slots in the plates allows adjustment of the transfer assembly to allow movement of the articles from one level on the first conveyor to a second level on the second conveyor.

Abstract: A modular link conveyor including a series of article engaging inserts includes a plurality of downwardly extending projections on each insert is provided to engage a series of corresponding apertures across the width of the modular links. A series of transversely mounted retaining rods secure the article engaging inserts to the conveyor. In the preferred embodiment, each insert is provided with one or more elastomer pads across the top surface of the insert for positive frictional engagement of the article being transported on the conveyor along the path. In the first alternative embodiment, each insert is provided with transversely mounted pusher bar, including an upstanding projection, to positively feed articles when necessary, such as when going up an incline. In a second alternative embodiment, each article engaging insert is provided with a transversely mounted bar having an obliquely angled face, similarly capable of positively feeding articles on the conveyor.

Abstract: A locking mechanism for attaching the inner race of a bearing assembly to a shaft is provided. A locating shoulder and an annular groove of constant depth are positioned on opposite sides of the bearing assembly when mounted on the shaft. An eccentric split ring is placed in the groove and is bodily positioned in a recess formed diametrically across the inner race. One of two opposed stops on opposite sides of the recess engages and cams against an enlarged portion of the ring upon initial relative rotation between the inner race and the shaft. The recess is formed by milling a gap across the end of the inner race.

Abstract: A helical conveyor/accumulator includes a side flexing track wound in a helical pattern around a rotary drum. The drum includes longitudinal grooves that carry articles along the helically disposed track as the drum rotates. The grooves have article engaging ribs that cooperate to move the articles for feeding while allowing the article to be spaced from the ribs for accumulation. The side flexing track includes modular links coupled together by connecting rods. The track is supported around the drum by helical coils disposed at the inner edge and the outer edge of the track and support rods passing through the links and clamped to a frame. Articles are fed until stopped by a gate, and then when the gate is opened articles seat in successive grooves in the drum for metered or controlled discharge.

Abstract: A conveyor system utilizing a plurality of modular links mounted by a plurality of transverse cross rods that retain the links together, forming the conveyor belt. The modular links include a plurality of apex portions, a plurality of leg portions extending therefrom and a plurality of foot portions. The apex portions include an elongated slot receiving the cross rod to allow longitudinal freedom of movement to the conveyor belt. The modular links further include side link portions that are adapted to engage conveyor guide rails integral with a support frame. Each side link portion is formed by including a depending arm having a transversely extending tab. A locking tab including resilient prongs is placed within a corresponding slot in each side link to retain the cross rod. Side rails attached to side rail brackets are provided adjacent the peripheral edges of the conveyor belt to maintain the transported product on the conveyor belt.

Abstract: A conveyor system utilizing substantially V-shaped modular links is disclosed. A plurality of transversely mounted cross rods retain the links together, thereby forming the conveyor belt. The apex of each link includes an elongated slot to allow longitudinal freedom of movement to the conveyor belt. Special side links are adapted to engage conveyor guide rails integral with a support frame. Each side link is formed by including a depending arm having a transversely extending tab on a modular link. A locking tab is placed within a corresponding slot in each side link to retain the cross rod. The combination of the shape of the links and the longitudinal freedom of movement of the conveyor allows substantially unrestricted motion through curves and bends. In an alternative embodiment, upstanding fins can be provided on one or each leg of a link. The angle of the fins to the forward travel gives better lateral support to the product on the conveyor.