Having Variable Conveying Length Patents (Class 198/812)
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Publication number: 20130087434Abstract: The invention relates to a conveyor device (20), wherein the conveyor device (20) comprises a frame, guide elements (10) supported by the frame, and a conveyor belt (7) guided around the guide elements (10). The invention is characterized in that the frame is assembled from a plurality of frame modules (21, 22, 23), wherein at least one of the frame modules (21, 22, 23) is exchangeable in order to alter the length of the conveyor device (20).Type: ApplicationFiled: April 13, 2011Publication date: April 11, 2013Applicant: JOSEPH VOGELE AGInventors: Steffen Fickeisen, Joschka Neumann
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Patent number: 8408383Abstract: Methods of mounting a conveyor belt to a telescoping conveyor include: (a) providing a conveyor belt configured to mount to a telescoping conveyor mechanism; (b) pivoting a first idler roller to an operative fixed position; and (c) translating an idler residing below the first idler roller upward and rearward into its respective operative fixed position to thereby mount a telescoping conveyor belt.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2011Date of Patent: April 2, 2013Assignee: Tipper Tie, Inc.Inventor: Thomas E. Whittlesey
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Patent number: 8397901Abstract: An extendable boom conveyor system and method. The extendable boom system includes first and second boom elements, an operator control, and a controller. The first boom element includes a brake mechanism, which includes a pin configured to be positioned in an engaged position and a disengaged position. The second boom element includes a feature configured to engage the pin in the engaged position and prevent motion of the first boom element relative to the second boom element in at least a first direction. The controller is configured to receive an operator signal from the operator control and activate the brake mechanism responsive to the operator signal.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2011Date of Patent: March 19, 2013Assignee: Siemens Industry, Inc.Inventors: David J. Brouwer, Jeffrey D. Price
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Patent number: 8398469Abstract: An agricultural work machine for performing harvesting operations. The agricultural work machine includes a support structure. An unloading system is coupled to the support structure and is configured to transport an agricultural product received from a hopper to an off-machine location. The unloading system includes a transfer assembly having a discharge chute. A positioning system is configured to adjust at least one of an elevation, a length and a rotational position of the transfer assembly to position the discharge chute. A control system is configured to automatically locate the discharge chute from a stowed position to a desired unload position of a plurality of preset unload positions upon receiving an operator input via an operator input device.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 2008Date of Patent: March 19, 2013Assignee: Deere & CompanyInventors: Bruce A. Coers, Daniel J. Burke, Ryan P. Mackin
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Patent number: 8393456Abstract: A storage platform is incorporated into the main conveyor. The machine is movable, and incorporates space for the storage of main conveyor structure. The machine also includes a mechanism for raising the top of the endless belt, and for permitting the lower or return portion of the endless belt to pass through the mobile machine.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2010Date of Patent: March 12, 2013Assignee: Joy MM Delaware, Inc.Inventors: Andrew P. de Lore, Peter Weatherhead
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Patent number: 8365905Abstract: A movement device having an endless belt with a working portion defined in a substantially horizontal working plane and a reserve portion defined in a reserve plane optionally coinciding with said working plane; a first guide wheel linearly moveable in said working plane and guiding the endless belt; a second guide wheel linearly moveable in said reserve plane and guiding the endless belt; two deflector members for deflecting the endless belt from the working plane to the reserve plane; drive mechanism for driving the endless belt; and movement mechanism for synchronously moving the two guide wheels in such a manner that the sum of the distances between each of the guide wheels and the deflector members is constant. The length of the working portion of the endless belt is capable of varying continuously and the quantity of articles that can be placed on the working portion of the belt can vary accordingly.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2009Date of Patent: February 5, 2013Assignee: Fege SarlInventor: Francois-Loic Fege
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Publication number: 20130026012Abstract: A conveyor, such as a bucket conveyor comprising an endless belt (23), the endless belt having a length along which it is endless and comprising a plurality of generally planar sliding members (1), and a plurality of sliding couplings (6) which couple the sliding members (1) together such that each sliding member (1) can slide in a direction along the length of the endless belt over an adjacent sliding member (1) so as to vary the length of the endless belt.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 12, 2011Publication date: January 31, 2013Inventor: George Terah Gough
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Patent number: 8205737Abstract: An apparatus for buffering objects having at least one first conveyor and at least one second conveyor, where objects enter the apparatus via the first conveyor and leave the apparatus via the second conveyor. Along a linear guide, a transfer device can be moved parallel to first and second conveyor to transfer objects from the first conveyor to the second conveyor. A control means unfolds and/or retracts a rail extending on at least one side of the first and/or second conveyor, dependent on the position of the transfer device.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2009Date of Patent: June 26, 2012Assignee: Krones AGInventors: Emil Dirmeier, Martin Seger
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Publication number: 20120152699Abstract: Communications systems and methods for transmitting extendible conveyor control signals along an extendible conveyor. A conveyor communication sys includes a first transceiver for use on a stationary boom of an extendible conveyor system, configured to communicate with a conveyor main control of the extendible conveyor system. The conveyor communication system includes a second transceiver for use at an end boom of the extendible conveyor system, configured to communicate with a control station on the end boom. The second transceiver is configured to receive wireless communications from the first transceiver over a wireless communications link.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 2, 2011Publication date: June 21, 2012Applicant: SIEMENS INDUSTRY, INC.Inventors: Shenghong W. Yang, Yuh-Jing Ho
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Patent number: 8162127Abstract: A dynamic storage for objects having an endless conveyor chain equipped with receptacles for the objects and having at least two contrarotating upper pulleys that are adjustable in height such that the conveyor chain forms two essentially vertical loops whose variable lengths are defined by the upper pulleys, the stationary lower pulleys rotating in essentially horizontal planes and being connected to the essentially vertical loops by curved guides for the conveyor chain.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2006Date of Patent: April 24, 2012Assignee: Krones AGInventors: Heinz Humele, Wolfgang Hausladen, Bruno Landler
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Patent number: 8151968Abstract: An extendable support apparatus for supporting an endless conveyor belt has an extendable frame, and a rest for supporting the conveyor belt relative to the frame. The extendable support apparatus is able to be extended and retracted by respectively extending and retracting the extendable frame while the conveyor belt circulates relative to the extendable support apparatus and while the conveyor belt is supported by the rest.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2008Date of Patent: April 10, 2012Inventor: John Bremhorst
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Publication number: 20120006658Abstract: A telescoping conveyor for particulate materials, particularly agricultural materials, uses an elongate support frame to support a telescoping conveyor. A top tube section is telescopically connected to a bottom tube section, the top tube section sliding over the bottom tube section and being supported by the support frame. The bottom and top tube sections respectively have inlet and discharge ends. A conveyor belt runs inside the bottom and top tube sections and has a return portion exteriorly of the tube sections. A belt take up mechanism is positioned in the belt return portion and has direction change rollers affixed to the support frame and to the top tube member and movable therewith in order to maintain belt tension in all telescoping positions of the conveyor.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 6, 2010Publication date: January 12, 2012Applicant: CRUSTBUSTER / SPEEDKING, INC.Inventors: Reinhold A. Hermann, Norbert E. Werner
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Publication number: 20110315518Abstract: An extendable boom conveyor system and method. The extendable boom system includes first and second boom elements, an operator control, and a controller. The first boom element includes a brake mechanism, which includes a pin configured to be positioned in an engaged position and a disengaged position. The second boom element includes a feature configured to engage the pin in the engaged position and prevent motion of the first boom element relative to the second boom element in at least a first direction. The controller is configured to receive an operator signal from the operator control and activate the brake mechanism responsive to the operator signal.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 9, 2011Publication date: December 29, 2011Applicant: SIEMENS INDUSTRY, INC.Inventors: David J. Brouwer, Jeffrey D. Price
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Patent number: 8061505Abstract: A conveying device for conveying and aligning flat products or stacks of flat products, in particular printed products, includes leading pins for stop on a leading edge of conveyed products and trailing pins or pushers for stop on a trailing edge of the conveyed products. The products are insertable between the leading and trailing pins and are thus aligned by the pins. A distance between successive pushers is adjustable without parts of the device having to be exchanged.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2009Date of Patent: November 22, 2011Assignee: Ferag AGInventors: Werner Honegger, Marcel Schneider
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Patent number: 8025140Abstract: A material processing apparatus comprises a conveyor that is rotatable in vertical direction around a horizontal axis that is situated in an element rotatable in horizontal direction relative to the apparatus. The element is articulated to the apparatus at a main point of articulation, and at a point remote from the main point of articulation, articulated to a variable length element which in turn is articulated to the apparatus, and the element is connected to an actuator causing the horizontal rotational movement of the element together with the conveyor, defined by said main point of articulation.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2005Date of Patent: September 27, 2011Assignee: Metso Minerals Inc.Inventors: Stephen A. Whyte, Stephen Wilkinson
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Patent number: 8006831Abstract: A first extruded side rail (102, 104, 120, 122) of an endless belt conveyor (100) includes several extruded profiles (298, 299, 309, 319, 329, 335, 337, 341, 347, 371, 375, and 381). The extruded profiles (298, 299, 309, 319, 329, 335, 337, 341, 347, 371, 375, and 381) perform different functions that permit the conveyor (100) to be made lighter and of fewer parts and with greater precision.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2010Date of Patent: August 30, 2011Assignee: Deere & CompanyInventors: Ryan Patrick Mackin, Daniel James Burke, Bruce Alan Coers
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Patent number: 7941992Abstract: A method and unit for feeding products to a group-forming unit for forming groups of products, each containing a given number of products; an orderly succession of products is fed in a first direction by means of a first conveyor; an orderly succession of products is fed in a second direction, parallel to the first direction, by means of a second conveyor parallel to the first conveyor; and the products are transferred from the first conveyor to the second conveyor by means of a transfer device which is permanently integral with an output end of the first conveyor, is moved in the second direction upon detection of a gap along the first conveyor, and is moved in the opposite direction to the second direction to form, along the second conveyor, a number of consecutive gaps equal to the number of products in each group of products.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 2008Date of Patent: May 17, 2011Assignee: G.D Societa'per AzioniInventors: Mario Spatafora, Fabrizio Tale′
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Patent number: 7938253Abstract: Methods for removing a belt from a telescoping conveyor having a plurality of spaced apart idler rollers in communication with the belt include: (a) translating an idler associated with a telescoping conveyor downward from an operative position to a belt removal and/or belt load configuration while one end portion thereof remains attached to the conveyor frame to thereby allow a conveyor belt to at least partially collapse from an operative configuration; and (b) removing the conveyor belt from the telescoping conveyor after the translating step. Methods of mounting a conveyor belt to a telescoping conveyor include: (a) providing a conveyor belt configured to mount to a telescoping conveyor mechanism; (b) pivoting a first idler roller to an operative fixed position; and (c) translating an idler residing below the first idler roller upward and rearward into its respective operative fixed position to thereby mount a telescoping conveyor belt.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2009Date of Patent: May 10, 2011Assignee: Tipper Tie, Inc.Inventor: Thomas E. Whittlesey
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Patent number: 7909153Abstract: A conveyor system includes an extension section that slides inwardly and telescopes outwardly of a main section of conveyor. The extension motion is powered by at least one hydraulic ram. The conveyor has a stem that lowers to a loadable height by the retraction of double hydraulic rams upon a steel internal core. The conveyor then lifts vertically in a cantilevered manner upon a vertical ram and then rotates 360 degrees parallel to the plane of a truck bed using a cooperating gear plate and a hydraulic motor with a chain. Paddles push material secured to a chain drive or alternately a belt and the chain drive or belt moves through a series of sprockets or rollers in a continuous manner. The paddles eventually return to their initial location.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 2009Date of Patent: March 22, 2011Inventor: Richard W. Pogue
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Publication number: 20100276258Abstract: An extendable support apparatus (200) for supporting an endless conveyor belt comprises an extendable frame (201), and a rest (220) for supporting the conveyor belt relative to the frame (201). The apparatus (200) is able to be extended and retracted by respectively extending and retracting the frame (201) while the conveyor belt circulates relative to the apparatus (200) and while the conveyor belt is supported by the rest (220).Type: ApplicationFiled: December 11, 2008Publication date: November 4, 2010Inventor: John Bremhorst
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Patent number: 7823715Abstract: A belt conveyor comprising a telescopic frame (1), an endless conveyor belt (9) which is supported by idlers (12) connected to the frame (1), a drawing drum (10), and a tilting drum (11), via which the conveyor belt (9) is arranged to run, and an actuator (14) mounted to the frame (1) for changing the length of the frame (1). The frame of the belt conveyor comprises frame blocks (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5g) installed to each other in a slidable manner and a lattice mechanism (20) installed to them in a pivotal manner to effect a change in the length of the belt conveyor as a result of the operation of the actuator (14). The frame blocks (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5g) comprise at least one frame pipe (2a, 2b, 2c, 2d, 2e, 2f, 2g, 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, 3f, 3g), wherein at least one frame block (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5g) comprises a supporting beam (4a, 4b, 4b? 4c, 4d, 4d?, 4e, 4f, 4g) connected to at least one frame pipe (2a, 2b, 2c, 2d, 2e, 2f, 2g, 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, 3f, 3g).Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2005Date of Patent: November 2, 2010Assignee: Metso Minerals Inc.Inventors: Petri Kinnunen, Markku Viitasalo, Olavi Kinnunen, Tero Majuri
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Publication number: 20100270131Abstract: A device is provided for detecting and adjusting the tension of the scraper chain. The device identifies broken chain as it leaves the return sprocket and enters the top race of the conveyor. When detected, the chain can be stopped automatically by the armored face conveyor control system, to avoid the potential for further damage, and warn the operators that repair of the chain is required. The device also provides a conveyor with sliding frames at both ends to allow the conveyor ends to be independently adjusted to each end of the coal block, whilst maintaining good chain tension and control.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 26, 2010Publication date: October 28, 2010Applicant: JOY MM DELAWARE, INC.Inventor: Ronald P. Vasey
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Patent number: 7788885Abstract: A method is provided for loading stacked food product into packages. Open top containers are arranged in rows and movable into a loading station. A shuttle conveyor has a retractable and extendable conveying surface, the conveying surface having an end region extendable to a position arranged above the containers of a row of the containers. A guiding and pushing apparatus is arranged above the row and includes guides that are lowered to capture a row of stacked food products on the conveying surface, and plungers within the guides that lower and press a top of the stacks. When the conveying surface is retracted from beneath the guides and the row of containers, the guides are lowered further, adjacent to the containers, and the plungers are lowered with respect to the guides to push the stacks into the containers.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2008Date of Patent: September 7, 2010Assignee: Formax, Inc.Inventors: Glenn Sandberg, Scott A. Lindee, James Wrona, James E. Pasek
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Patent number: 7784597Abstract: An extendable conveyor apparatus is disclosed and comprises a stationary conveyor section, a movable conveyor section extendable with respect to the stationary conveyor section, and a movement assembly configured to move the movable conveyor section with respect to the stationary conveyor section. The movement assembly comprises a plurality of teeth mounted on a first conveyor section, and a teeth engaging apparatus mounted on a second conveyor section and configured to engage and move the teeth on the first conveyor section with respect to the second conveyor section.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2008Date of Patent: August 31, 2010Assignee: Masaba, Inc.Inventors: Jim Frankl, Clay Crandall
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Patent number: 7766158Abstract: An extendable belt conveyor system designed to be installed under a self-propelled windrower between the front and the rear wheels suitable for multiple windrowing operations. The self-propelled windrower with the extendable belt conveyor system deliver a swath at a variable distance from the windrower, either on left or on the right, as the machine moves through the field. The conveyor can be directed on the left or on the right at variable distances with no need to manually change a part. The extendable belt conveyor system has at least two conveyors disposed one above the others and are connected with a trolley between each conveyor. The extendable belt conveyor system is driven by a single driving means and by a single reversible motor.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2007Date of Patent: August 3, 2010Inventor: Pierre Laganière
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Patent number: 7739959Abstract: An over/under monorail system for longwall mining operations can have a single overhead rail mounted trolley system with a pair of over/under mounted trolleys. Upper trolleys can be carried by the overhead rail, and can typically carry hydraulic pipes. A lower rail can be carried by the upper trolleys, and lower trolleys can be carried by the lower rail. The lower trolleys can typically carry electric cables. Some trolleys can be adapted to carry both flexible hydraulic hoses and electric cables, and such trolleys can be carried by either the upper or lower rails, depending upon the design of the overall system.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2006Date of Patent: June 22, 2010Assignee: Swanson Industries, Inc.Inventor: Thomas L. Hutchinson
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Patent number: 7735635Abstract: The invention relates to an arrangement and a method for the separation and removal of plate-shaped workpieces (7) out of the proximity of a separating device, which arrangement and method are intended for the automatic removal of such workpieces. For this purpose a bearing surface (2, 3) of a two-piece supporting table (4) is replaced by a second supporting table (6), which, together with the remaining bearing surface (3, 2), is moved and therein accepts the workpiece (7) completely. The second supporting table (6) subsequently carries the workpiece (7) completely out of the proximity of the first supporting table (4). The arrangement and the method permit separating the workpieces without damage to the support and the rapid and precise removal of the worked workpieces as well as of the trimmings.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2006Date of Patent: June 15, 2010Inventor: Reinhard Diem
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Patent number: 7721869Abstract: The invention provides an apparatus for moving a mine conveyor segment (2, 3) between a first position in line with a train of conveyor segments and a second storage position out of line with the train of conveyor segments, comprising: a segment holder (9), and a guide (8) for guiding the movement of the segment (2, 3) between the first and the second position, wherein the apparatus is connectable to a device (102) for manipulating the train of conveyor segments such that the segment holder (9) is at least partially movable independent from the train manipulating device (102). The handling of the conveyor segments (2, 3) in the first position is not decisive for the status of the apparatus according the present invention, and therefore the handling of the segments outside the first position can coincide (overlap) with the operating of the launch platform.Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 2004Date of Patent: May 25, 2010Assignee: Superior Highwall Miners, Inc.Inventor: Cornelis Wilhelm In 'T Hout
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Publication number: 20100116627Abstract: The invention relates to a movement device comprising an endless belt comprising a working portion defined in a substantially horizontal working plane and a reserve portion defined in a reserve plane optionally coinciding with said working plane; a first guide wheel linearly movable in said working plane and guiding the endless belt; a second guide wheel linearly movable in said reserve plane and guiding the endless belt; two deflector members for deflecting the endless belt from the working plane to the reserve plane; drive means for driving the endless belt; and movement means for synchronously moving the two guide wheels in such a manner that the sum of the distances between each of the guide wheels and the deflector members is constant. The length of the working portion of the endless belt is capable of varying continuously and the quantity of articles that can be placed on the working portion of the belt can vary accordingly.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 10, 2009Publication date: May 13, 2010Applicant: FEGE SARLInventor: Francois-Loic FEGE
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Patent number: 7681714Abstract: Gravel is fed into and spread onto the floor of a newly constructed basement by a hanging frame which attaches to a window sill and supports a hydraulically driven conveyor belt with a feed spout at a feed end of the conveyor belt and a guidance belt mounted on top of the conveyor belt. The hanging frame converges to a front post which pivotally supports a frame of the conveyor belt for movement side to side about an upright axis through the feed spout and carries an adjustable brace which raises and lowers the conveyor. A feed chute is located outside the window. The conveyor includes a guide conveyor on top and is driven by a power source and pump located outside the building.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2008Date of Patent: March 23, 2010Inventors: Jake Wiebe, George Wiebe
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Publication number: 20100051421Abstract: Continuous haulage system (10) suitable for use in the mining industry, including an extendible conveyor belt (20) adapted to extend when a tensile force is exerted on the conveyor belt, and to retract when the tensile force is removed, the extendible conveyor belt being biased to the retracted condition; and an extendible cable (30) adapted to extend when a tensile force is exerted on the cable, and to retract when the tensile force is removed, the extendible cable being biased to the retracted condition. The extendible cable is located at least partially adjacent to the extendible conveyor belt, so as to provide support for the extendible conveyor belt when the conveyor belt is extended.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 19, 2007Publication date: March 4, 2010Inventor: Shaun Douglas Dickson
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Patent number: 7658271Abstract: In a movable conveyor belt storage installation including a belt storage means (4), conveyor belt support structures (29) following the belt storage means (4), and a movable takeover car (7) including a deflection means (43) for the conveyor belt and a takeup chute (8) for taking over excavated material, the belt storage means (4) is comprised of at least two segments (13, 20, 22, 26) which are connected with one another so as to be pivotable about an axis extending transversely to the belt running direction and passing through the plane of the floor (31), wherein at least a portion of the support structures (29) are capable of being carried along in or on the takeover car (7).Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2006Date of Patent: February 9, 2010Assignee: Sandvik Mining and Construction G.m.b.H.Inventors: Manfred Fuchs, Simon Curry
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Publication number: 20100018835Abstract: A belt conveyor comprising a telescopic frame (1), an endless conveyor belt (9) which is supported by idlers (12) connected to the frame (1), a drawing drum (10), and a tilting drum (11), via which the conveyor belt (9) is arranged to run, and an actuator (14) mounted to the frame (1) for changing the length of the frame (1). The frame of the belt conveyor comprises frame blocks (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5g) installed to each other in a slidable manner and a lattice mechanism (20) installed to them in a pivotal manner to effect a change in the length of the belt conveyor as a result of the operation of the actuator (14). The frame blocks (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5g) comprise at least one frame pipe (2a, 2b, 2c, 2d, 2e, 2f, 2g, 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, 3f, 3g), wherein at least one frame block (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5g) comprises a supporting beam (4a, 4b, 4b? 4c, 4d, 4d?, 4e, 4f, 4g) connected to at least one frame pipe (2a, 2b, 2c, 2d, 2e, 2f, 2g, 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, 3f, 3g).Type: ApplicationFiled: November 30, 2005Publication date: January 28, 2010Applicant: Metso Minerals (Tampere) OyInventors: Petri Kinnunen, Markku Viitasalo, Olavi Kinnunen, Tero Majuri
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Patent number: 7641043Abstract: The present invention provides a loading and unloading apparatus comprising in mutual cooperation a conveyor device (3) adjacent a roller table (2), where said conveyor device and roller table are pivotably mounted on a carrying structure (5), which structure, in use is vertically extendable and retractable.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2004Date of Patent: January 5, 2010Inventor: Martin Vestergaard
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Publication number: 20090229954Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a specimen transport system that can easily be installed without requiring much time and regardless of various transport distances and also is inexpensive. In the present invention, the distance between apparatuses, which had been difficult to be met by a specimen transport line when a specimen transport system is built, can easily be met by providing a structure in which a conveyor belt is formed in an endless loop and the shape of the loop of the conveyor belt is changed according to the length of a rack transport surface (rack transport surface length), and flexibility for apparatus and system installation and space efficiency can be enhanced, enabling substantial reduction of time and costs in building a specimen transport system.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 22, 2009Publication date: September 17, 2009Inventors: Kazuhiro NODA, Terumi Tamura, Jyunichi Ooizumi
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Patent number: 7555881Abstract: A method and unit for feeding products to a group-forming unit forming groups of products, each defined by a given number of products; an orderly succession of products is fed in a first direction by a first conveyor; the products are transferred from the first conveyor to a second conveyor by a first transfer device; an orderly succession of products is fed in a second direction by the second conveyor; the products are transferred from the second conveyor to a third conveyor by a second transfer device; an orderly succession of products is fed by the third conveyor in a third direction parallel to the second direction; and, when a vacancy is detected on the first transfer device, the second conveyor is stopped, and, at the same time, the second transfer device is moved towards the first transfer device in the opposite direction to the second direction.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 2007Date of Patent: July 7, 2009Assignee: G.D Societa' per AzioniInventors: Mario Spatafora, Enrico Campagnoli, Fabrizio Tale'
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Patent number: 7540236Abstract: An apparatus for printing on and/or otherwise decorating hollow bodies comprises a plurality of processing stations of different types, in which supplied hollow bodies may be processed in different ways. For conveying the hollow bodies a conveyor chain arrangement is provided serving the individual processing stations and consisting of conveyor chain sections able to be linked together by coupling means to constitute a conveyor chain in a closed loop with alternatively possible different paths. These different paths are characterized in that the processing stations may be served by the conveyor chain in different orders and/or partially obviated by it.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2005Date of Patent: June 2, 2009Assignee: Hinterkopf GmbHInventor: Helmut Aichele
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Patent number: 7513356Abstract: A positive displacement sorter apparatus includes a plurality of interconnected slats defining an endless traveling web. An upper run of the web defines a first conveying surface traveling in a longitudinal direction. A plurality of pusher shoes are provided, each moving along at least one of the slats to laterally displace an article on said conveying surface. A web end portion of the web is extendable and contractible in the longitudinal direction. A product handling conveyor at the web end portion has a second conveying surface that is adapted to supply product to, or receive product from, the first conveying surface. The product handling conveyor has a conveyor end portion that is adjacent to the web and is moveable with extension and contraction of the web end portion. In this manner, the first and second conveying surfaces maintain a constant relative relationship.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2008Date of Patent: April 7, 2009Assignee: Dematic Corp.Inventors: Frank W. Veit, Rhonda J. Verploegen, Thanh V. Nguyen, Mark S. Harkema
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Publication number: 20090071797Abstract: An extendable conveyor apparatus is disclosed and comprises a stationary conveyor section, a movable conveyor section extendable with respect to the stationary conveyor section, and a movement assembly configured to move the movable conveyor section with respect to the stationary conveyor section. The movement assembly comprises a plurality of teeth mounted on a first conveyor section, and a teeth engaging apparatus mounted on a second conveyor section and configured to engage and move the teeth on the first conveyor section with respect to the second conveyor section.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 10, 2008Publication date: March 19, 2009Inventors: Jim Frankl, Clay Crandall
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Patent number: 7500556Abstract: An adjustable conveyor bed that is adjustable in length to span a gap between two devices of a conveyor system includes a primary section and a secondary section that is extendable and retractable relative to the primary section. The primary section has opposite primary sidewalls and a plurality of primary rollers mounted thereto. The primary rollers include a primary motorized roller and a plurality of primary idler rollers interconnected with one another via a plurality of drive members. The secondary section has opposite secondary sidewalls, with the secondary section sidewalls being nestedly received within the primary sidewalls and being adjustably mounted to the primary sidewalls and extendable and retractable relative to the primary sidewalls to adjust a length of the adjustable conveyor bed. The secondary section is configured to support at least one secondary roller when extended a sufficient amount from the primary section.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2006Date of Patent: March 10, 2009Assignee: Siemens Energy & Automation, Inc.Inventors: Donald E Lemke, Jeffrey D Price
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Patent number: 7472784Abstract: A conveyor belt cleaner scraper blade for cleaning the surface of a conveyor belt and a method of manufacture of the scraper blade. The scraper blade includes a body having a base member adapted to be attached to a cross shaft of a conveyor belt cleaner and a scraping member which extends outwardly from the base member to a scraping tip. The scraper blade includes one or more electrical sensors that are embedded in an insert member. The insert member and the sensors are molded and embedded within the body of the scraper blade. Each of the sensors is adapted to provide an electrical output signal representing a physical condition of the scraper blade sensed by the sensor. A variety of sensor embodiments are described, as well as two embodiments of control and monitoring systems for use in conjunction with the various blade and sensor combinations.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2006Date of Patent: January 6, 2009Assignee: Martin Engineering CompanyInventors: R. Todd Swinderman, Andrew J. Waters, Pablo F. Perez, Phillip E. Dietsch
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Patent number: 7469782Abstract: A cargo conveyor for use in loading and unloading a cargo compartment comprises: a plurality of conveyor units for being disposed within the cargo compartment and for being temporarily arranged to support a loading or unloading conveyor path having a length that varies during a same loading or unloading operation, the conveyor path for being lengthened during the unloading operation and for being shortened during the loading operation, the plurality of conveyor units for being coupled with and decoupled from the conveyor path for lengthening the conveyor path during the unloading operation and for shortening the conveyor path during the loading operation, respectively.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2005Date of Patent: December 30, 2008Assignee: Dew Engineering and Development LimitedInventor: Neil Hutton
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Patent number: 7467708Abstract: A belt conveyor includes spaced-apart opposite sidewalls and at least two rollers positioned along and between the sidewalls defining a zone in which two of the rollers are end rollers located at opposite ends of the zone. A continuous conveying belt is reeved around the rollers and defines a conveying surface between the sidewalls. At least one of the rollers is a driven roller to drive the conveying belt and move articles along the belt conveyor. The conveying belt is initially stretched lengthwise at least 0.75 percent when it is reeved around the rollers. The conveying belt is tracked around the rollers, without a take up device, by engaging with the rollers. End rollers are mounted to axles, each axle extending through and protruding from both sidewalls. Axle retainers may receive the ends the end roller axles and connect the axle ends to their respective sidewalls.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 2007Date of Patent: December 23, 2008Assignee: Dematic Corp.Inventors: Michael Thane McGettigan, David H. Cotter, Kenneth J. Kooistra, Curtis E. LeMay
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Patent number: 7455173Abstract: A portable telescoping stacking conveyor for stockpiling bulk particulate materials includes a primary conveyor frame, a secondary conveyor frame, an undercarriage and a base frame having a king pin for engagement with a tow vehicle. The front end of the primary conveyor frame is pivotally mounted to the base frame. The secondary conveyor frame of the portable telescoping stacking conveyor has a left secondary top chord and a right secondary top chord. The secondary conveyor frame is receivable by the primary conveyor frame and moveable with respect thereto between a retracted position and an extended position. The primary conveyor frame is arranged, configured and adapted to support the secondary conveyor frame only by supporting the left secondary top chord and the right secondary top chord.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2006Date of Patent: November 25, 2008Assignee: Astec Industries, Inc.Inventors: Boris Fridman, J. Donald Brock
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Patent number: 7448486Abstract: An extendable conveyor apparatus is disclosed and comprises a stationary conveyor section, a movable conveyor section extendable with respect to the stationary conveyor section, and a movement assembly configured to move the movable conveyor section with respect to the stationary conveyor section. The movement assembly comprises a plurality of teeth mounted on a first conveyor section, and a teeth engaging apparatus mounted on a second conveyor section and configured to engage and move the teeth on the first conveyor section with respect to the second conveyor section.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 2007Date of Patent: November 11, 2008Assignee: Masaba, Inc.Inventors: Jim Frankl, Clay Crandall
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Patent number: 7438180Abstract: A multi-axis conveyor comprises a telescoping, articulating beam supported from a platform. A belt support assembly, comprising a plurality of belt support plates connected by telescoping, articulating joints and two end rollers provides support for a closed, flexible belt loop. A control system provides hydraulic fluid to hydraulic cylinders to telescope individual beam segments of the articulating beam and hydraulic motors for positioning multi-axis joints connecting the beam segments to position the end of the conveyor in the desired length and the desired horizontal and vertical position.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2006Date of Patent: October 21, 2008Inventors: John S. Taylor, Thomas W. Barrett
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Patent number: 7438176Abstract: In a transfer conveyer wherein a pair of guide rails respectively provided with guide surfaces for guiding both side surfaces of a transferred article in a transfer direction are extended in the transfer direction and wherein flexible endless belts are provided for supporting lower surfaces at both sides of the transferred article, whose both side surfaces are guided on the guide surfaces, to transfer the transferred article in the transfer direction, a stretching mechanism is provided on one end portion of each guide rail to be stretchable in the transfer direction, a stretchable guide surface for defining a flat surface continuous and even with the guide surface regardless of any stretched position is formed at a facing surface of each stretching mechanism, and plural pulleys for circulatably supporting a part of the endless belt are provided on the facing surface of the stretching mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2004Date of Patent: October 21, 2008Assignee: Fuji Machine Mfg. Co., Ltd.Inventor: Mikio Furuuchi
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Patent number: 7416075Abstract: Powered and steerable telescoping conveyors. The telescoping conveyors have an infeed section and a discharge section. The discharge section can be telescoped beneath the infeed section in a retracted position. In an extended position, containers can be conveyed over first and second conveying structures that are located on the infeed and discharge sections, respectfully. The conveying structures can include wheels, rollers, or belts. A power module can move the discharge section between the extended and retracted positions. The power module can be located at various positions along the conveyor, including at a discharge end of the discharge section. A steering assembly can be provided to orient the discharge section with respect to the infeed section. The steering assembly can include two wheels, each wheel having its own independent wheel-steering axis. A power module can be associated with each of the independent wheels.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 2006Date of Patent: August 26, 2008Assignee: Northstar Industries, Inc.Inventors: Mark Haustein, Ryan Schaecher
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Patent number: 7413070Abstract: The invention relates to a device for forming any desired portions and sizes of products, comprising an aligning belt (1) that conveys the products (2) while transferring them, at a transfer edge (4), to a portioning belt (3), on which the portions (6) and/or sizes (5) are formed and with which the portions are conveyed onward in their corresponding sizes. The invention relates to a system comprised of the inventive device and of a packing machine (16), and to a method for producing any desired portions and sizes of products.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 2003Date of Patent: August 19, 2008Assignee: CFS GmbH KemptemInventor: Josef Mayer
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Patent number: 7398876Abstract: A conveying device (1) which is particular in that the conveying device comprises a plurality of conveying elements (2), where each conveying element (2) comprises a chain box element (4) in which at least one transport roller (3) is rotatably fixed such that rollers (3) arranged in adjacent conveying elements (2) define the conveying device transport plane, and that chain box elements (4) of adjacent conveying elements are interconnected in such a way that one conveying element may articulate in relation to adjacent conveying elements, and that at least some of the chain box elements in the conveying device comprise drive elements directly engaging and rotating the transport rollers (3).Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2004Date of Patent: July 15, 2008Inventor: Martin Vestergaard