Links Having Interfitted Ends Patents (Class 198/853)
  • Publication number: 20100236902
    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: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2010
    Publication date: September 23, 2010
    Applicant: Ashworth Brothers, Inc.
    Inventors: Jack Montgomery, Craig Musselman, Joseph Fout, Paul Steinhoff
  • 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: 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: 20100175969
    Abstract: A conveyor, preferably a belt conveyor, comprising: a plurality of modules (1) disposed one following the other, each of said modules comprising a frontal portion and a rear portion (2, 3), comprising a plurality of ends (4) for connecting the modules together, two parallel lateral walls (17), a load-carrying upper surface (15A) and a lower surface (15), the ends (4) of one module intersecting at least partially with the end of the preceding and successive modules, said module ends (4) including coaxially aligned apertures (5) adapted to receive a transverse pin (6) to removably connect said modules together, said pin (6) comprising a cylindrically shaped first portion (7) extending into said apertures (5), said pin (6) and said modules comprising means and counter-means (8, 9, 10, 11A, 11B) to removably prevent axial and rotational movements of said pin (6) when inserted through said apertures to connect two of said modules together, in which said pin (6) comprises end portions (30, 31) projecting from s
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2010
    Publication date: July 15, 2010
    Applicant: System Plast S.r.l.
    Inventor: Sergio Marsetti
  • 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: 7731021
    Abstract: A conveyor chain with a universal coupling joint connecting consecutive chain links. The joint includes a joint member unitarily molded with a first link body engaged by a separately formed joint element insertable into a second adjacent link body to link the two link bodies at the joint. The insertable joint element may be made of a different material from the link body. The joint member has a convex or concave spherical bearing surface that engages a complementary concave or convex bearing surface on the joint element for universal pivoting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: Laitram, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Stephen Melançon, David Bogle, Max C. Salinger
  • Patent number: 7699160
    Abstract: A conveyor comprising a plurality of modules (1) arranged one after the other, each of said modules comprising two parallel front and rear walls (2,3), two parallel lateral walls (17) and a top and bottom surface (15) and projecting from said front and rear wall a plurality of module link ends (4), the module ends (4) of one module intermeshing with the module ends of the previous and successive modules, said module ends (4) including coaxially aligned openings (5) adapted to receive a transverse pin (6) for realisably joining said modules, said pin (6) comprising a first cylindrically shaped portion (7) extending in said openings (5) and a second portion (8), radially departing from one end of said first portion, said pin being rotatable, about a longitudinal axis (L) of said first portion (7) of the pin (6), between a first position (F) not restricting the axial movement of said pin (6) in said openings (5) and a second position (R) restricting said axial movement, a lateral portion (9) of each of said modu
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Assignee: System Plast S.R.L.
    Inventor: Sergio Marsetti
  • 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
  • Patent number: 7686159
    Abstract: A belt module suitable for use in a modular belt and designed for holding attachments such as flights. The belt module has an attachment holder with a dovetail section on the upper surface that accommodates attachments and the like that are designed to be removably attached to the holder by means of attachments furnished with foot extensions that fit into the dovetail section by sliding the foot laterally into a locked position relative to the attachment holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: Habasit AG
    Inventor: Dietmar Elsner
  • 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: 20100065405
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for sensing conditions local to a modular conveyor belt and wirelessly transmitting signals representing those conditions to an off-belt belt monitoring system. A load cell pin installed in a clevis formed at a hinge joint between adjacent rows of a modular conveyor belt serves as a clevis pin to interconnect the rows and as a sensor sensitive to belt tension transmitted through the clevis. A special load-sensing belt module forms the clevis and holds electronic circuitry that takes the measurements made by the sensor, logs them in a memory element, and transmits them wirelessly to the belt monitoring system. The measurements may also be used as part of a closed-loop control system to control the speed or other operating characteristics of the conveyor system. Furthermore, a variety of sensors housed in sensor modules similar to standard conveyor belt modules may be installed in the belt as drop-in replacements for standard modules.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2009
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Applicant: LAITRAM, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Jason M. Lagneaux
  • Patent number: 7673741
    Abstract: A conveyor apparatus and method for conveying materials in which the conveyor belt has chord members located along each belt side. The chord members are adapted to fit within a slotted track assembly whereby the chord members slide relative to the track assemblies when the conveyor is actuated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Inter-Source Recovery Systems
    Inventor: William D. Nemedi
  • Publication number: 20100044191
    Abstract: A module for a conveyor mat, comprising a body part (3) which is provided, on front and rear sides extending, during use, transversely to a conveying direction, with staggered rows of hinge loops (6), spaced apart by intermediate spaces, transversely to the conveying direction, with hinge holes extending transversely to the conveying direction in a manner such that front and rear sides of successive modules can be coupled with the aid of a hinge pin which extends transversely to the conveying direction, with the hinge loops (6) interlocking. The hinge loops (6) extend between, on the one side, outer faces situated on front or rear sides of the module and, on the other side, inside faces situated closer to the middle of the module. The outer faces (14) are provided with outer driving faces (14A) for cooperation with teeth (24) of a drive wheel (15) of a first type and the inner faces (13) are provided with inner driving faces (13A) for cooperation with the teeth (26) of a drive wheel (16) of a different type.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2006
    Publication date: February 25, 2010
    Applicant: REXNORD FLATTOP EUROPE B.V.
    Inventor: Michael Van Rees
  • Publication number: 20100038216
    Abstract: Modular belt link of the type having a leading and trailing edge and a top surface there between, and two side surfaces at right angles to the leading and trailing edges, and a lower carrying surface and furthermore provided with means for hingely connecting to adjacent modular belt links, characterised in that the modular belt link is made from a polymer material, and that at least in a side surface a conductive material insert is embedded, such that the conductive material is exposed on the top surface and the side surface, and is part of said top and side surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2009
    Publication date: February 18, 2010
    Applicant: AMMERAAL BELTECH MODULAR A/S
    Inventor: Kenneth Westergaard ANDERSEN
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20100006404
    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: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2008
    Publication date: January 14, 2010
    Inventor: Todd G. Jager
  • Patent number: 7641044
    Abstract: A conveyor chain for a travel way on which an operator and/or a work carriage are reliably moved in a nonskid manner. The conveyor chain has a series of modules, each with a nonskid material loaded upper surface with front and rear hinge portions for connecting the modules to each other by connecting pins. The nonskid material loaded upper surface has hollows with the hollow surfaces recessed below the upper surface. The upper surface includes a number of supporting ribs project upwardly from the hollow surfaces and terminate flush with the upper surface, so that the transfer of the work carriage is easy and a back bend radius is decreased. Miniaturization and simplification of the conveyor are attained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: Tsubakimoto Chain Co.
    Inventors: Hajime Ozaki, Katsutoshi Shibayama
  • Publication number: 20090293785
    Abstract: A chain grate for a combustion system is disclosed, comprising a continuous belt of connected links. The links have a generally boxlike configuration open to below and comprise a substantially solid upper surface, and at least one downwardly projecting wall. At least some of said links comprise at least one vent open to said surface. The grate comprises an array of substantially isolated cells open to below and a substantially continuous upper surface defined by said links. The vents permit combustion gas to travel from the interior of said cells to said surface. The links are joined together in a linear array by a hinge structure at the opposing ends of the links. The grate is intended to be supported by a bed which includes one or more plenums which have a flat upper surface for supporting the grate. The grate rests upon the flat surface to effectively form a sealed, cellular structure defined by the interior spaces within the link bodies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2009
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Inventor: James GALLANT
  • 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
  • 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: 20090250324
    Abstract: A module for a modular conveyor mat, comprising a sheet metal body part (2) bent-over, in cross section, into a substantially inversed U-shape, wherein the connecting part of the U forms a conveying face and wherein the legs of the U form side faces (6, 7) located adjacent longitudinal edges of the conveying face, extending downwards relative to the conveying face, which side faces are provided adjacent the front and rear side (8, 9) of the body part (2) with openings (10) for receiving hinge pins (22) therethrough.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2007
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Inventors: Cornelis Hendrik M. Menke, Rick Wilhelmus Van Den Berg
  • Publication number: 20090250320
    Abstract: Modular belt module of the type having a width, and a length, where the width and length defines a plane, and a thickness orthogonal to said plane, such that the basic module is limited by two longitudinal sides, and a front and rear side, where the module along front and rear sides is provided with eye parts, spaced by openings, such that an eye part on one edge fits inside an opening between two eye parts on an adjacent module, whereby apertures provided in the eye parts parallel to the front and rear sides overlap and may accommodate a hinge pin, characterised in that adjacent and parallel to the two longitudinal sides, upstanding flanges are provided, where each flange is provided with means for accommodating an axle, arranged parallel to the front and rear sides.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2009
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Inventors: Dieter Steinstrater, Carsten Seib
  • Patent number: 7597188
    Abstract: A module for chains or belts that is molded from a plastic compound containing a magnetizable element. The molding may be performed in a standard injection molding machine equipped with a device that produces an electromagnetic or permanent magnetic field. The field lines are directed in such a way as to penetrate the mold cavities and the molded part in the desired axis, in order to electrically charge the magnetizable particles and orient them to form a permanently magnetized plastic body. After discharge of the mold, the plastic part has magnetic properties with opposite charges at opposite poles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: Habasit AG
    Inventor: Giovanni Volpi
  • Patent number: 7588137
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a conveyor belt includes multiple roller sets, each roller set including a first roller and a second roller, the first and second rollers being placed in contact with each other such that driving of one of the rollers in a first angular direction causes rotation of the other roller in a second, opposite angular direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2009
    Assignee: Laitram, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Matthew L. Fourney
  • Publication number: 20090218200
    Abstract: A module for a modular conveyor mat (2), comprising a substantially flat metal body part (3) provided, on front (4) and rear (5) sides extending transversely to the conveying direction (P), with projections (7) spaced apart by intermediate spaces (6) and which form hinge loops (8), and, attached to the body part, a plastic cover (9) forming a conveying surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2006
    Publication date: September 3, 2009
    Inventors: Cornelis Hendrik Mijndert Menke, Gijsbertus Johannes Verduyn
  • Patent number: 7578384
    Abstract: A link of a conveyor chain is connectable to a similar and adjacent link and has a main base body with two shoulders, protruding upward from ends of transverse sides of the main base body. Ends of a pair of first and second shafts are associated with the pair of shoulders and first rollers are rotatably associated with the shafts. Second rollers are associated on the pair of first and second shafts and are supported in a loaded condition by at least one pair of first supporting elements, activatable when a load passes. A third shaft, with which third rollers are associated rotatably, is further provided that is supported by at least one pair of second supporting elements, the ends of the third shaft being free.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Assignee: Habasit AG
    Inventor: Sergio Fandella
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20090194391
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for sensing conditions local to a modular conveyor belt and wirelessly transmitting signals representing those conditions to an off-belt belt monitoring system. In a preferred version, a load cell pin installed in a clevis formed at a hinge joint between adjacent rows of a modular conveyor belt serves as a clevis pin to interconnect the rows and as a sensor sensitive to belt tension transmitted through the clevis. A special load-sensing belt module forms the clevis and holds electronic circuitry that takes the measurements made by the sensor, logs them in a memory element, and transmits them wirelessly to the belt monitoring system. The measurements may also be used as part of a closed-loop control system to control the speed or other operating characteristics of the conveyor system. Furthermore, a variety of sensors housed in sensor modules similar to standard conveyor belt modules may be installed in the belt as drop-in replacements for standard modules.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2008
    Publication date: August 6, 2009
    Applicant: LAITRAM, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Jason M. Lagneaux
  • Publication number: 20090194388
    Abstract: A conveyor, comprising a modular conveyor mat (2) driven by sprocket wheels (19), wherein the conveyor mat is driven by the sprocket wheel on the hinge pins (9). The modular conveyor mat comprises a number of modules (1) successive in conveying direction, which are each provided with a body part extending transversely to the conveying direction and having rows of hinge loops (6) reaching forward and rearward in the conveying direction, wherein the hinge loops of successive modules cooperate and are coupled using hinge pins.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2006
    Publication date: August 6, 2009
    Inventors: Leonardus Adrianus Catharinus Cornelissen, Gijsbertus Johannes Verduijn
  • Publication number: 20090194393
    Abstract: A conveyor comprising a plurality of modules (1) arranged one after the other, each of said modules comprising two parallel front and rear walls (2,3), two parallel lateral walls (17) and a top and bottom surface (15) and projecting from said front and rear wall a plurality of module link ends (4), the module ends (4) of one module intermeshing with the module ends of the previous and successive modules, said module ends (4) including coaxially aligned openings (5) adapted to receive a transverse pin (6) for realisably joining said modules, said pin (6) comprising a first cylindrically shaped portion (7) extending in said openings (5) and a second portion (8), radially departing from one end of said first portion, said pin being rotatable, about a longitudinal axis (L) of said first portion (7) of the pin (6), between a first position (F) not restricting the axial movement of said pin (6) in said openings (5) and a second position (R) restricting said axial movement, a lateral portion (9) of each of said modu
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2009
    Publication date: August 6, 2009
    Applicant: System Plast S.p.A.
    Inventor: Sergio Marsetti
  • Patent number: 7563188
    Abstract: A conveyor chain comprising a number of chain links mutually connected in the chain longitudinal direction, each chain link having a plurality of hinge parts comprising laterally-spaced hinge parts in the form of finger members protruding in laterally-spaced relation from a front edge and a rear edge as an integrally molded unit; and a ball unit holding a ball which is free to be rotated while being exposed to both sides of the chain link, the ball unit being detachably installed in a U-shaped mounting region open at one end between the hinge parts and closed at the other end. The finger members of each link are interdigitated with the finger members of the adjacent links, and are retained by a hinge pin. Removal of the ball unit is facilitated by a tool-inserting slot at the other end of the U-shaped region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Assignee: Tsubakimoto Chain Co.
    Inventors: Hajime Ozaki, Katsutoshi Shibayama, Yoshihiro Murakami
  • Patent number: 7559422
    Abstract: A modular link or link section for use in forming a rodless conveyor belt or a section thereof is provided. In one embodiment, the link section is unitary and includes a plurality of laterally-repeating link-shaped portions, each including an apex portion and a pair of leg portions. Each apex portion includes a receiver for receiving an integral first connector extending between the leg portions of a next-adjacent link or link section, preferably in snap-fit engagement, such that relative pivoting movement is established. A second integral connector may be provided between the leg portion of each adjacent apex portion to create an engagement surface for a tooth of a drive or idler sprocket. The underside surface of each link section may also be specially contoured or curved to facilitate smooth passage over a guide structure, such as a small diameter, cylindrical nosebar or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Assignee: Span Tech LLC
    Inventors: James L. Layne, Otto Jorgen Draebel, Mark T. Johnson, Michael D. McDaniel
  • Patent number: 7556136
    Abstract: A belt module with embedded rollers retained in cavities in the module by retention structure insertable into the module. The rollers and cavities are elongated in the direction of belt travel and closely separated by narrow dividers that form outward-facing surfaces that can serve as bearing surfaces for a belt made of the modules when the rollers are inactivated. When activated, the rollers, which rotate on axles parallel to the direction of belt travel, are supported directly on conveyor rolling surfaces. The dividers also carry the belt tension and stiffen the module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Assignee: Laitram, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Angela L. Marshall, Brien G. Rau, David W. Bogle
  • Patent number: 7556142
    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: November 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Assignee: Rexnord Industries, LLC
    Inventors: James C. Stebnicki, Robert E. Mitchell
  • Publication number: 20090159407
    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: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2007
    Publication date: June 25, 2009
    Inventors: Jeffrey Earl Delair, William J. Bickel, JR.
  • Publication number: 20090145732
    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: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2008
    Publication date: June 11, 2009
    Applicant: Cambridge International, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert E. MAINE, JR., George Howard Messick, JR., Charles Hennigar, Chetwyn Jones
  • Patent number: 7540368
    Abstract: A modular roller-top conveyor belt with a dense array of rollers freely rotatable toward the sides of the belt. The rollers are arranged in offset lines and columns in a checkerboard pattern on the top side of the belt. The rollers rotate on axes parallel to the direction of belt travel. The rollers extend in the direction of belt travel over the hinge axes formed between adjacent rows of belt modules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2009
    Assignee: Laitram, L.L.C.
    Inventor: David C. Weiser
  • Patent number: 7530455
    Abstract: A belt designed for improved cleanability achieved by large link distances thus reducing the number of gaps. The module design reduces the undesirable elasticity of the belt under load by having link pairs, formed by links on adjacent modules, that are moved as close together as possible leaving large open spaces between the link pairs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Assignee: Habasit AG
    Inventor: Marco Lucchi
  • Patent number: 7530454
    Abstract: A conveyor belt including a plurality of link elements, and a pivot rod with a button head at one end. The button head is sized to pass through an outer opening and be received in a first edge extension when in a particular orientation. The pivot rod is retained with the button head received in the first edge extension by rotating the button head so that the button head is misaligned with respect to the first dimension of the outer opening. A method for assembling a conveyor belt is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Assignee: Ashworth Bros. Inc.
    Inventors: D. Joseph Neely, Aaron Brantly Neely
  • Patent number: 7527143
    Abstract: The invention may include a series of rows of belt modules. 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 hinge pin 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 roller may be supported from a first module of the first row and supported from a second module of the first row, so that the roller resides between the first module and the second module and so that the roller extends above the modules in order to allow an object, which is to be conveyed by the conveyor belt, to be supported on the roller. 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: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Assignee: Habasit AG
    Inventors: Michal Krisl, Dieter Guldenfels
  • Patent number: 7527145
    Abstract: A low-friction conveyor (10) including a conveyor belt (12) supported on self-contained rollers (32) riding along a carryway (22). The conveyor includes a modular conveyor belt constructed of a series of rows of belt modules (24, 25) connected into a loop by hinge joints between adjacent rows (26). The belt is supported on a carryway. Drive surfaces are accessible from the interior side (28) of the belt loop. Drive elements, such as sprockets (16), drive on the drive surfaces to move the belt along the carryway. The belt rollers are recessod inward of the outer side (29) of the belt loop and extend past the interior side of the belt loop. In this way, the rollers engage the carryway in low-friction, rolling contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Assignee: Laitram, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Omair Zubair, Gerald O'Connor, Kyle Sedlacek
  • Patent number: 7527146
    Abstract: A conveyor assembly includes a module which can support a roller between adjacent hinge members to simplify modular conveyor assembly and disassembly. The module includes at least two adjacent first hinge members extending in a direction of conveyor travel and defining a space therebetween. The at least two adjacent first hinge members include coaxial openings for receiving a hinge pin therethrough. A first snap fit extension extending from at least one of the adjacent first hinge members toward the other of the adjacent first hinge members for holding a roller in the space substantially coaxial with the openings in the at least two adjacent first hinge members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Assignee: Rexnord Industries, LLC
    Inventors: James C. Stebnicki, Kevin S. Hansen
  • Publication number: 20090107805
    Abstract: In one aspect, a modular link conveyor chain including slats is capable of assuming a compressed and an expanded condition so as to permit side-flexing while moving along a forward run and a return run in an endless path. The chain is formed of links arranged in rows spaced apart in the conveying direction, the links of a first row including aligned apertures and the links of a second row including oversized apertures, such as slots, for aligning with the aligned apertures of the links in the first row. A first connector is associated with the corresponding apertures to interconnect the first and second rows of links. At least one elongated slat is mounted to the connector. The slat maybe mounted for pivoting movement between a first position forming at least part of a conveying surface along the forward run, and a second position along the return run.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2007
    Publication date: April 30, 2009
    Inventors: James L. Layne, Lewis W. Ward, B. Keith Thomas, Mark D. Russell
  • Publication number: 20090078544
    Abstract: A flat wire conveyor belt system includes a plurality of spaced tractive rods and a plurality of rows of pickets transversely disposed with respect to a direction of travel and interconnecting the plurality of spaced tractive rods, each of the rows of pickets including a plurality of first links and a plurality of second links, the plurality of first links have a first spacing and the plurality of second links have a second spacing, the first spacing being less than the second spacing. The system further includes a sprocket, wherein the plurality of first links are configured to engage the sprocket teeth thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2008
    Publication date: March 26, 2009
    Applicant: Cambridge International, Inc.
    Inventors: George H. Messick, JR., Robert E. Maine, JR.
  • Publication number: 20090071803
    Abstract: A convey chain (100) includes a plurality of link units (10) pivotly connected to one another. Each link unit includes a chain link (11), a connect link (12) and a carrier assembly (18). The connect link pivotly connects with the chain link, and includes a pair of side plates (121) and a transverse plate (123). The transverse plate transversely connects the pair of side plates. The carrier assembly is configured for carrying workpieces, and is upwardly mounted on the transverse plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2007
    Publication date: March 19, 2009
    Applicants: SHENZHEN FUTAIHONG PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., SUTECH TRADING LIMITED
    Inventors: LI-HUA ZHANG, KE ZHOU, JUN-ZHEN FENG, SHENG-QUAN ZHANG
  • Patent number: 7500555
    Abstract: A link plate for a metal waste conveyer is composed of plural flat plates, and each of them has its lengthwise opposite side edges respectively provided with plural staggered pivotal members and opposite lateral ends respectively compressed to form a vertical side plate. Before the side plate is compression molded, the flat plate has its opposite short sides respectively compressed to form a bar projection with a preset length and thickness. The central line of the bar projection is parallel to the lengthwise central line of the flat plate and perpendicular to the bending line of the side plate. The bar projection has its opposite ends respectively positioned on the side plate and the flat plate, having one end on the side plate located lower than the upper edge of the side plate to form a space therebetween, and the other end on the flat plate extended to a preset length for reinforcing the supporting force of the side plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2009
    Assignee: Miaw Yeou Metal Industry Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Chin-Lien Liao