Abstract:
A conveyor system (5) moves one or more articles in at least a conveying direction along an endless path having a forward run and a return run. The system includes an endless chain (10) having lateral side edges (12) spaced apart in a direction transverse to the conveying direction (C) , and at least one link (13) having a surface intermediate of the side edges (12). A chain support (50) positioned between the side edges (12) includes an axle (56) extending in the transverse direction for rotatably supporting a roller (52) for engaging the surface of the link. The roller provides enhanced, low friction support for the chain intermediate of the side edges.
Abstract:
Systems and related methods for singulating and/or reorienting articles may include a singulator with at least two and preferably three V-shaped conveyors (202, 204, 206) serially arranged to convey the articles in a vertically cascading fashion. The conveyors may operate at successively increasing speeds to separate adjacent articles with successively larger gaps. Each conveyor may be comprised of a pair of belts (202a, 202b, 204a, 204b, 206a, 206b) oriented generally orthogonal to each other, and neither having a conveying surface parallel to a horizontal plane. To facilitate article reorientation, the individual belts may be driven at different linear speeds, and at least one belt may include a conveying surface with a high friction portion.
Abstract:
In one aspect, the present invention relates to a conveyor for intended use in a diverter system. The conveyor comprises a pair of spaced conveyor chains formed of links having a depending arm with an inwardly projecting guide tab. The links are secured together by connector rods creating opposed inward projections that support a first carrier rod positioned between the chains. Another aspect of the invention is an article carrier for capturing a first carrier rod, but releasably connecting with a second, adjacent carrier rod. Consequently, the carrier upon release from the second carrier rod can bodily move and pivot about the first carrier rod, such as in the event a portion of the carrier encounters an obstruction. The carrier may also include article-engaging projections.
Abstract:
A modular link (10) or link section for use in forming a riddles 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 (16), each including an apex portion (14) and a pair of leg portions (22, 24). Each apex portion includes a receiver (18) for receiving an integral first connector (36) 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 (40) 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 (s). The underside surface of each link section may also be specially contoured or curved to facilitate smooth passage over a guide structure (B), such as a small diameter, cylindrical nosebar or the like.
Abstract:
A modular link conveyor system (10) for transporting articles is provided having a plurality of modular link sections (15) providing a support surface for the articles and wherein one or more rollers (30) are positioned in the underside of selected link sections (12) to provide support by rolling on a guide rail (25, 26) of the conveyor system (10). Each link section (12) includes at least one interengaging apex (13) and leg portion (14) having a matching hole (22) and slot (21) for receiving a transverse rod (20) to permit side flexing action. An enclosure (36, 37) for each roller (30) provides protective encapsulation along at least the two sides and substantially around the rolling face to prevent debris build up. Advantageously, at least one roller (30) is mounted in each side link section (13, 14) that also provides a depending arm (28) and transverse tab (29) for lateral guiding action. The link sections (15) are combined to form a composite link and a cover plate provides an extended support surface.
Abstract:
Systems and related methods for singulating and/or reorienting articles may include a singulator with at least two and preferably three V-shaped conveyors serially arranged to convey the articles in a vertically cascading fashion. The conveyors may operate at successively increasing speeds to separate adjacent articles with successively larger gaps. Each conveyor may be comprised of a pair of belts oriented generally orthogonal to each other, and neither having a conveying surface parallel to a horizontal plane. To facilitate article reorientation, the individual belts may be driven at different linear speeds, and at least one belt may include a conveying surface with a high friction portion.
Abstract:
An improved conveyor chain (10) formed from a plurality of modular links (14) arranged in rows (R1, R2, R3) and each associated with at least two elongated transverse connectors (11a, 11b) is disclosed. In one embodiment, the connectors define a substantially open, planar conveying surface intermediate of the links in each row. Each link (14) in a first row includes apertures (30) for receiving a first (11a) of the connectors extending through a slot (28) in the links of an adjacent row, as well as a receiver (22) having a closed end (23b) and an open end (23a) for receiving one end of a second one (11b) of the connectors. The chain with the connectors associated with each row is thus capable of side-flexing to negotiate curves or bends, as well as longitudinal compression/expansion, while at all times providing full and even article support.
Abstract:
In one aspect, the present invention relates to a conveyor for intended use in a diverter system. The conveyor comprises a pair of spaced conveyor chains formed of links having a depending arm with an inwardly projecting guide tab. The links are secured together by connector rods creating opposed inward projections that support a first carrier rod positioned between the chains. Another aspect of the invention is an article carrier for capturing a first carrier rod, but releasably connecting with a second, adjacent carrier rod. Consequently, the carrier upon release from the second carrier rod can bodily move and pivot about the first carrier rod, such as in the event a portion of the carrier encounters an obstruction. The carrier may also include article-engaging projections.