MXPA00008478A - Modular link conveyor with i-beam guide rail - Google Patents

Abstract

A conveyor system (10) has an integral I-beam guide rail (14), a narrow width chain conveyor belt (12), and drive and idler shafts (46). The belt (12) comprises a series of modular integral links (18). Each link (18) comprises an apex (20), spaced legs (22) with foot portions (24) and depending arms (26), a wing (30) extending outwardly fromeach leg (22), and a guide tab (28) projecting inwardly from each arm (26). The links (18) are pivotally interconnected through the apexes (20) and spaced legs (22). The I-beam guide rail (14) comprises outwardly projecting guide tracks (40, 42), releasable end guides each including support plates (56) on the sides of the I-beam guide rail (14) and a split bushing (60), and split sprockets (44) releasably secured to the shafts (46). The guide tabs (28) engage the guide tracks (40, 42) of the I-beam guide rail (14). The I-beam guide rail (14) can be extruded plastic with a reinforcement strip (50) having apertures (52), or spaced upper and lower guide tracks (40a, 42a) held together by clamp assemblies (82).

Description

APPARATUS TPANSPORTADOR OF MODULAR LINKS WITH RIGER GUIADOR IN THE FORM OF BEAM I Field of the Art The present invention relates, in general, to conveyor systems and, more specifically, to a modular link conveyor system having an improved guide rail for use with a narrow chain conveyor.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Conveyor systems are an integrated part of the most modern production facilities. These systems are especially beneficial in the food process, product manufacturing and other areas where the flow between different manufacturing stations is important to provide efficient and economical operation. Recent improvements in simplicity of design and speed of operation offer transfer flow of greatly improved products, thereby significantly reducing production costs and maximizing utility.

Of course, it is desirable that the system occupy as little area as possible. In addition to the obvious restrictions that are created by a limitation in available floor space, reductions in system dimensions also allow more work stations to be distributed in a given area for greater operator efficiency. These factors represent significant cost savings and greatly increase the efficiency of production. In addition, many production / manufacturing operations for small products, such as food products, require separation of a relatively wide feeder conveyor to separate, individual aisles, or vice versa. Thus, it is advantageous to use multiple relatively narrow conveyors to provide the desired flow to multiple passages. In the prior art the broad concept of a compact conveyor system using a relatively narrow band on a simple guide rail is recognized. An example of such a proposal is illustrated in U.S. Patent No. 5,178,263 to Kempen, which teaches the use of an H-shaped rail having upper and lower internal channels for guiding a single articulated broadband. Although relatively compact, a major disadvantage of this design is that fine waste and / or product residues are easily trapped within the internal channels. In addition, the closed sides prevent the cleaning solutions from being reliably distributed within the channels and then released as runoff for disposal. Thus, the perfect cleaning of the system requires the separation of the band, thus significantly increasing the downtime of production and also escalating the cost of operation. In addition to narrowing the conveyor belt, it is also possible to obtain savings in space by optimizing the distribution of the system. This can include placing narrow bands between production machines or providing deviations, curves or inclinations. Of course, a narrow band must cross smoothly and effectively these different geometries. Considering the need for a compact conveyor system having improved characteristics, U.S. Patent No. 5,031,757 to Draebel et al., Discloses a narrow chain conveyor formed in a single row of interconnected modular links. A pair of separate, straight rails provide forward and backward travel that serves to guide the band in an endless path. This design provides for the first time the desirable compatibility for space saving and open design that facilitates cleaning. However, it has been found that it is possible to provide an even narrower band and the conveyor system for greater savings and efficiency, while retaining characteristic smooth and efficient operation, especially in curves or deviations.

As already mentioned briefly, in many production systems an important requirement is having multiple aisles of product. First, small products require only a narrow band, so if one is occupied with a wider width it is only waste of working capital. Also, it is less expensive to operate narrow conveyors. In addition, some bakery products, such as crackers and the like, are very well adapted to be transported in a narrow band that has static guide rails placed on the sides. The increase in production using this type of system gives rise to even more important cost savings. Accordingly, the need for a conveyor system having an improved narrow chain conveyor and better guiding means is identified. The system must be compact to provide the desired space savings while at the same time increasing the product's transport capabilities. In addition, the system must incorporate the ability to provide serial and / or intermittent product flow along a single band or a series of separate bands. In addition, an integrated guide rail and band should be provided, with an open design for easy cleaning, and the ability to release the extreme guide components would improve ease of maintenance.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Therefore, with the aforementioned needs in mind, a primary objective of the present invention is to provide an improved, narrow width modular link conveyor system. Another object of the present invention is to provide a conveyor system having a beam-shaped guiding rail I with upper and lower guiding tracks extending outward, integrated to guide a narrow chain conveyor. Still another object of the present invention is to provide a conveyor system with a modular, narrow, improved link band that is particularly adapted for transporting small products. Still another object of the present invention is to provide a conveyor system that is specially adapted for food processing, the system having an open design to facilitate cleaning and to loosen the end guiding components to simplify adjustment. A further objective of the present invention is to provide a conveyor system, wherein a series of narrow chain conveyor belts, coaxially mounted, provides product flow to multiple passages to or from a single relatively wide conveyor. Still another object of the present invention is to provide a narrow individual conveyor and conveyor system that is relatively simple and economical in its manufacture, installation and maintenance. Further objects, advantages and other novel features of the invention will be set forth in part in the following description and in part will be apparent to those skilled in the art with an examination of the following or may be learned by practice of the invention. The objects and advantages of the invention can be carried out and be obtained by means of the provisions and combinations particularly indicated in the attached clauses. In order to achieve the foregoing and other objects, and in accordance with the purposes of the present invention as already described, a modular link conveyor system is provided using an improved guide rail with integrated guide tracks and a narrow chain. The conveyor system is especially convenient in operations that require reduced space to transport products between successive work stations, such as in food processing operations. The conveyor belt includes a plurality of interconnected modular links. As an advantage, a single integrated link defines the width of the band. Each link has a cusp portion and a pair of segment portions extending from it. The segment portions end in bulbous foot portions. The foot portions include corresponding transverse holes for receiving a cross rod that serves to interconnect the links. The cusp portion includes a transverse slot located at the center. Each cross rod joins the foot portions of a front link with the cusp portion of a back link, thereby forming the interlaced, endless conveyor belt. Preferably, the cross rod is knurled at the places where it passes through the foot portions and press fit therein to ensure a semi-perpendicular, secure assembly with the link. In theory, the rod is flush with the outer edge of each foot portion, thereby avoiding the formation of a blind cavity where waste or debris can accumulate. However, the rod may extend outwardly from the hole to provide additional width and stability for the band, as described in more detail below. As can be seen, the transverse groove in the cusp portion allows the cross rod to move in the longitudinal direction and pivot laterally. As an advantage, this provides the band with a substantial degree of freedom of movement in two directions. First, the movement of the cusp in this space allows the band to be compressed in width. This compression causes the belt to smoothly and effectively traverse a curve or bend in the conveyor system. In addition, the lateral portions of each cusp are provided with inclined surfaces, which allows the link to rotate smoothly in the direction of the curve without interfering with the surrounding segment portions of a front link. Second, as the top of a back link is free to rotate around the crossbar, the band is free to rise or descend as required. The foot portions of each link further include a pair of pendant arms from which the guiding projections are directed inwardly. The pending arms serve to define the peripheral edges of the band. As described in more detail below, the pendant arms and guiding projections help guide the band by the integrated guiding tracks which are clutched by sliding the guiding rail in the form of beam I. The guiding projections also provide the advantageous function of helping to support the belt in an inverted position when it travels along the return gear. According to an important aspect of the present invention, the beam-shaped guiding rail I includes the integrated upper and lower guiding tracks that conveniently serve to guide the band in the forward and backward directions, respectively. More specifically, the side flanges of the upper and lower ends of the beam I define the guiding tracks. The hanging arms of each link engage the sides of the flanges, which thus replace the normal additional wear strips. In the preferred embodiment, the guide rail is extruded plastic cut lengthwise, so that the provided support surface is continuous. This means that a minimum of spliced joints is required for a particular length conveyor, thereby minimizing the interstitial spaces where waste or debris can be trapped. In addition, the open links allow the surface of the support to be easily cleaned using cleaning solutions and / or high pressure washing, avoiding any interruption in production. The lower flanges of the beam-shaped rail I acts as a guide for the belt in the return stroke. As can be seen, the projections that are directed inward of each link are slidably engaged through the lower flanges in the same way as in the forward stroke described above. The use of a single guide rail that has integrated guide tracks avoids the need for any additional support structure. APRA the entire endless belt. Which also serves to reduce the complexity of the system. In the preferred embodiment, the guide rail in beam form I is extruded from a plastic composition having better tribological characteristics, such as UHMW plastic including nylon 6-6, or the like. If necessary or desired, a metal reinforcing tape in the form of C or I may be embedded in the beam I during formation. In an alternative embodiment, the beam I can be formed by sandwiching C-shaped plastic channels attached to the core. As an advantage, the mode provides the complete guide rail with the requirement of strength and better friction characteristics throughout its entire surface area. This solid plastic guide rail is effective to increase system efficiency and substantially reduce wear on the side links of the belt. The reinforcing tape is preferably provided with a series of openings that allow the molded plastic on either side of the guide rail to join them together. The horizontal or vertical curves can also be formed during the extrusion of beam I, thereby allowing a wide variety of degrees of curvature in the system. The support means, such as the separate segment or engine bed, can be attached to either side of the beam web in the form of beam I. In an alternative embodiment, the beam-shaped guiding rail I includes integrated upper and lower guiding tracks that are held together by a series of opposed fastener mounts. Each respective guiding track includes a pair of opposed flanges that provide a guide / carrier surface for the modular links, as already described. A bulbous protrusion extending from each guide track provides a pair of shoulders. The fastener mounts include opposing brackets with the contour to accept the shoulders and the attachment means to secure the brackets together. As an advantage, this design allows to adjust the vertical separation between the integrated guide rails, while retaining the simplicity, the improved operational characteristics and the open design provided in the preferred embodiment. Each bracket may also include the means for joining the side rails for the conveyor belt or the support means for the guide rail. According to another important aspect of the invention, the modular links may also be provided with wings extending in width. In a preferred embodiment, the wings extend angularly outward from the foot portions. Each wing has a transverse slot corresponding to the slot in the cusp portion. These grooves are adapted to accept extensions of the cross rod, if desired, to provide additional lateral stability to the links. As can be seen, this arrangement also allows the links to retain the desirable turning and compression capability to function smoothly in curves. It should be appreciated that the wings serve to increase the width of the band to actually extend beyond the lateral edges of the guiding rail. This provides an increased surface area to support a slightly wider product, while retaining the desired minimum contact area between the links and the guide rail. The links can also be provided with wing extensions, if desired, to further increase the surface area that the product carries. According to yet another important aspect of the present invention, the conveyor is provided with end guide components that can be released and that facilitate maintenance. A sprocket mounted releasably to the motor / intermediate shafts is provided at both the conductive and intermediate ends of the auger, respectively. A split connecting rod sleeve provides a bearing surface for these shafts. The split connecting rod sleeve is secured in the opening forming the mounting plate and is retained by an E-shaped retaining clip. The mounting plate is attached to the end of the guide rail and preferably has a radio-shaped horseshoe shape. reduced to avoid any opportunity to interfere with the operation of the band. This support arrangement may be provided along either or both sides of the guiding rail, and has been found to add stability to the band when it reverses the direction around the conductive / intermediate ends. As can be seen, the divided sprocket and connecting rod cap allow the components to be easily assembled or disassembled for maintenance. This feature also helps to avoid long production delays. The narrow width of the chain allows the placement of several conveyors in a relatively narrow space ratio. This conveniently allows the system to provide flow to multiple aisles, thus allowing the transported products to undergo combination or separation movement which is a requirement in many of the production operations. Likewise, the addition of curves / turns or inclinations allows the flow of products to be directed to different areas of the facility or around / on the production machinery to optimize the use of floor space. In the preferred embodiment, an electric motor connected to a single drive shaft provides the driving force for the belt. As can be seen, where multiple aisles are used, a single conductor shaft connected to a single motor allows a series of bands to be driven together. The system of the invention can be easily coupled with the feed or outlet conveyors necessary to form the product stream with the desired dispersion or combination. Still other objects of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in this art from the following description, wherein a preferred embodiment of this invention is shown and described, simply as an example of one of the best suitable modes for carrying out the invention. As will be appreciated, the invention is capable of other different embodiments and its various details may be modified in different obvious ways without departing from the invention. Therefore, the drawings and descriptions will be considered as examples and not as restrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The annexed drawings incorporated and those forming part of the specification illustrate some aspects of the present invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles thereof. In the drawings: Figure 1 is a perspective view of the modular link conveyor system of the present invention, which includes a series of narrow chain conveyor belts driven together by a single driver shaft along guide rails in the form of beam I; Figure la is a schematic of the conveyor system that has product flow in multiple aisles, including curves that allow to intersperse the flow of the product; Figure 2 is an enlarged, perspective view of an improved modular link for a narrow conveyor chain, including inwardly directed projections that help guide the web along the guide rail and portions extending outwardly. that provide greater surface area to retain the product on the band; Figure 3 is a front view, amplified, of a narrow modular link in sliding clutch with the upper guiding track (shown in section) of the guiding rail in beam form I; Figure 4 is a side view of the means for driving the conveyor belt (shown in dashed line) located adjacent one end of the guide rail, including the detachable, divider, driving sprocket secured around the driver shaft; Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the preferred embodiment of the beam-shaped guiding rail I, including the upper and lower pairs of the flanges forming the integrated guiding tracks, the C-shaped reinforcing strip co-extruded with the guide rail and separate segments supports that join the soul; Figure 5a is a side view of the integrated beam-shaped guiding rail I, shown along the line 5a-5a of Figure 5, which includes cutting the molded plastic material to show the reinforcing tape and the joining opening; Figure 6 is an exploded view of the support of the drive shaft and the support means, including the mounting plate with a notch-shaped opening, located at the center, a connecting rod bushing divided with integrated, opposing retaining projections that correspond to the notches, and an E-shaped retainer to help secure the connecting rod halves together; Figure 6a is a cross-sectional view along the line 6a-6a of Figure 4, further showing the support means and the bearing located along both sides of the guide rail; Figure 7 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the beam-shaped guiding rail I with the integrated upper and lower guiding tracks and a plurality of clamping mounts for securing the guiding tracks in a separate relationship; and Figure 7a is a cross-sectional view of the alternative embodiment shown in Figure 7. / Reference will now be made in detail to the current preferred embodiment of the invention, an example of which is illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Reference is now made to Figures 1 and that exemplifying the narrow chain conveyor system 10 of the present invention. Each conveyor of the system includes a conveyor belt of modular links 12 and a guide rail in the form of beam I 14. As will be evident after reviewing the following description, the narrow profile of these components allows to place a plurality of bands 12 in a ratio of narrow space and drive them together by a single drive shaft 16. This conveniently allows flow in multiple aisles, allowing with this means that the product P transported to be subjected to intercalation movement (see Figure la) or separation (not shown), which is a requirement in many of the operations and production lines.

More specifically, with reference to the schematic diagram of Figure la, the addition of curves or arcs in the guide rails 14 allows the system to change direction and "come together" from a series of relatively wide spaced bands 12 to a relatively close array . This allows the product P that is being transported to be "interleaved" with another production line that comes from a different area of the production facility (not shown). The interleaving lines may be coupled to a suitable output conveyor (not shown) to transport the product P to additional work stations. Thus, another aspect of the important advance in space saving and efficiency in production is realized. Of course, a similar arrangement where the bands "separated" to provide divergent flow is within the broader aspects of the invention. The endless conveyor belt 10 is formed by a plurality of interconnected single-width modulating links 18. A general description of the design and materials forming the links can be found in U.S. Patent No. 5,031,757, issued by the applicant. "System of Conveyor Chain of Modular Links with Narrow Chain", and 4,953,693 entitled "Conveyor System of Modular Links". The descriptions of these patents are incorporated herein by reference. Now with reference to Figure 2, each link 18 includes a cusp 20 and a pair of spaced segments 22 that extend angularly outwardly thereof. A bulb-like foot portion 24 is formed at the distal end of each segment 22. Each foot portion 24 includes a pendant arm 26 having an inwardly directed nose 28 that aids in guiding the conveyor belt 12 (see Figure 3) , as described in more detail later. A wing 30 may extend angularly outward from the link 18 on each side. The wings 30 serve to increase the width of the band 12 if desired, and thus provide a larger surface area to support the slightly wider product. As can be seen from the view of Figure 2, the links 18 have an open design that contributes to the easy cleaning capabilities. In the preferred embodiment, the links 18 are formed of a high density plastic material, such as acetal. This provides a strong and durable link 18 with better friction characteristics, as described in more detail below. This material provides an FDA approved surface and also improves the ease of cleaning, a feature of particular benefit in the food processing industry. To interconnect the individual links 18 together to form the band 12, a plurality of one-width transverse rods are provided (see rod 19 in Figure 2). A transverse hole 32 is formed in each foot portion 24 in which the transverse rod is snapped. Preferably, the rod is formed of stainless steel, and is knurled and dimensioned for a snap fit at the extreme locations where it passes through the hole 32 to ensure a secure clutch. To prevent the formation of a blind cavity where debris or debris accumulates, the rod has the ideal size in length and is assembled at level with the outer edge of each foot portion 24. However, depending on the width of the link 18 necessary for In a particular operation, the rod may extend outwardly from each hole 34 and engage the auxiliary wing 30 to provide additional stability, as described in more detail below. Each transverse rod 19 is attached to the foot portions 24 of the front link with the cusp portion 20 of a back link, thereby forming the interlaced conveyor belt, endless 12 with the width of a single link. More specifically, an elongated transverse groove 34a is formed in the cusp 20 of the link 30 to receive the portion of the transverse rod extending between the foot portions 24 of a front link. As can be seen, this slot 34a allows the transverse rod 19 to move longitudinally and rotate laterally, which provides the band 12 with the ability to pivot in the vertical and horizontal planes. Now with reference specifically to the horizontal plane, the movement of the cusp 20 in the space between the segments 22 allows the band 12 to compress against its width. This allows the band to traverse curves and bends smoothly and efficiently in the conveyor system 10. In addition, the front-side portions of each cusp 20 are provided with sloping surfaces that improve the ability of each link 10 to rotate smoothly in the direction of the curve without interfering with the surrounding segment portions 22 of a front link. With respect to the vertical plane, the cusp 20 of the rear link is free to rotate about the transverse rod 19. This provides the band 12 with the ability to ascend or descend, as necessary. This maneuverability in the horizontal and vertical planes allows the narrow band 12 to transport small items, such as pancakes, biscuits, or other small food products, into small spaces available in many of the food processing lines. For additional stability, each wing 30 is provided with the transverse slot 34b corresponding to the slot 34a. This slot 34b is adapted to accept the extensions of the transverse rod 19, if present, and provides additional lateral stability to the links 18. As can be seen, this arrangement preserves the above-described turning and compressing ability of the links to negotiate curves smoothly, while at the same time providing the band 12 with an increased width for transporting slightly wider products. Now with reference to Figures 3, 4 and 5, the preferred embodiment of the guide rail 14 is shown and takes the form of an extruded plastic I beam. As an alternative, the beam I can be formed by C-shaped plastic channels attached to the core (see dotted interleave line 14 'in Figure 5). The opposite upper and lower side beams cause integrated guide tracks 40, 42, respectively, to guide and support the conveyor belt 12. More specifically, as best seen in Figure 3, the pendant arms 26 of each link 18 are clutched in a sliding manner with the lateral edges of the upper guide track 40 serving thereby to guide the conveyor belt 12 along a forward stroke. The links 18 are supported vertically by the upper carrier surface of the track 40 (see Figure 3). The lower beams act as a guiding track 42 for the band 12 hanging down along a return stroke. More specifically, the inwardly directed projections 28 clutch slidably through the integrated lower guide track 42 for the support. The pendant arms 26 slidably engage the lateral edges in the same manner as the forward stroke. This arrangement for supporting the band 12 as it hangs in an inverted position, thereby eliminates the need for an additional support structure for the return stroke. Now with reference to Figure 4, the means for operating the band 12 is shown. A split sprocket 44 is secured about an axis 46 to provide the driving force for the band 12. An electric motor / transmission M is provided for driving the axis 46 (see Figure 1). Typically, the shaft 46 supports multiple sprockets 46 for a set of strips 12. The split sprocket 44 is formed of symmetrical halves, each with a pair of cooperating raised receptacles 48 into which removable fasteners, such as screws, are inserted. The ends of the guide rail 14 are provided with a curved profile to allow the sprocket 44 to be located in close proximity to the upper and lower guide tracks 40, 42 to engage the band 12. The sprocket 44 is ideally formed of a material lightweight but durable plastic, such as a nylon mix. To provide smooth transmission to the band around the sprocket 44, a pair of curved guide track extensions 49 (side track of a track shown in Figure 4) is provided. Preferably, these extensions 49 cooperate to assist the band 12 in negotiating the turns between the upper and lower guiding tracks 40, 42. In a manner similar to the positive guiding movement of the band 12 along the guiding tracks 40, 42 , the pendant arms 26 of each link 18 slidably engage the outer edges of the extensions 49, while the outwardly directed projections 28 are slidably engaged in the lower part thereof near the full turn. As can be seen, this coupling helps to provide smooth and efficient operation of the band 12 as the transition is made from a return stroke to the advance stroke, and vice versa. As seen in Figure 5 and 5a, in the preferred embodiment, the beam-shaped guide rail I 14 is extruded into extended, integrated lengths. For long conveyor lines, the ends of the adjacent rails are connected in a spliced mode with no spaces. This provides smooth movement, as well as eliminates fissures where accumulation of detrimental waste could occur. The rail of preference is a plastic composition having improved tribological characteristics, such as UHMW plastic, which includes nylon 6-6 or the like. The shape of beam I allows any product residue to be easily removed using traditional cleaning processes. For greater strength, it is possible to embed a C-shaped reinforcing metal tape on the guide rail 14 during the extrusion process. As can be seen in the sectional side view provided by Figure 5a, the generated reinforcing tape 50 is preferably provided with a series of openings 52 (shown in broken line) which allows the plastic material molded to either side of the guide rail 14 is joined to each other. The horizontal and vertical curves (not shown) can also be formed during extrusion, thereby allowing a wide variety of degrees of curvature to be provided. As seen in Figure 5, the support means, such as the separated segments 54, adapted to be fixed to a motor base or the like, is provided for the conveyor system. The segments 54 extend outwardly from the sides of the guiding rail 14 so as not to interfere with the operation of the band 12. To improve the stability during operation of the system, the end guiding components are provided. As shown in the exploded view of Figure 6, these components include a horseshoe-shaped plate 56 that houses a bearing surface for the drive shaft 46. More specifically, an opening located at the center 58 on the plate 56 allows the shaft 46 passes through it and also serves to house a split connecting rod bushing 60 that provides the bearing surface. The connecting rod 60 is preferably provided in two symmetrical halves, each having a semicircular internal surface, and made of a durable plastic material with a high degree of lubricity, such as the UHMW nylon 6-6 mixture. To secure the rod 60 in the opening 58, a pair of opposed, integrated retaining projections 62 is provided. These projections 62 each correspond to the grooves 64 formed in the opening 58. With the lateral insertion of both of the projections 62 through the notches 64, the upper and lower halves of the rod 60 are pushed in an up or down mode, respectively, until they are secured in place around the shaft 46. In order to prevent the rod 60 from coming out of the opening 58, a retainer in the form of resilient E 66 is slidably pushed into a groove 68 formed around the inner edge of the rod 60. A retaining lip 70 formed adjacent the groove 62 prevents the retainer 66 from decoupling. As it should be appreciated, the ease of combined disassembly of the split sprocket 44 and the connecting rod 60 allow for simple assembly and disassembly, thereby avoiding any interruption of production important for maintenance or the like. Referring now to Figures 4 and 6, the mounting plate 56 includes a pair of mounting openings 72a corresponding to the openings 72b provided on both sides of the core of the guide rail 14. Any of the convenient connectors, such as a screw / nut combination can be used to join the mounting plate 56. The threaded spacers (not shown) can be provided in adjacent openings 72b to ensure that the mounting plate 56 does not interfere with the operation of the sprocket 44 or the band 12. As best seen from the cross-sectional view of Figure 6a, it should be appreciated that the support / bearing arrangement described above may be provided along both sides of the guide rail 14 to further improve the stability of the system . Further, although shown for use with the drive shaft 46 and the sprocket 44, a similar support arrangement may be provided for the intermediate shaft / sprocket at the opposite end of the endless conveyor (not shown). During a forward stroke operation, the pendant arms 26 serve to guide the band 12 along the upper guiding track 40 as already described. As best seen in Figure 3, the underside of the cusp 20, the segments 24 and a portion of each foot 24 all run along the carrier surface provided by the runway 40. As an advantage, a minimum amount of friction is created between the acetal surface of the links 18 and the UHMW plastic forming the guiding rail 14 of the preferred embodiment. This not only improves the efficiency of the system, it also requires less energy to overcome the frictional forces, but also reduces the wear on the band 12 and the guide track 40. It should also be noted that the arms 26 and the guide projections 28 run along the outside of the guide rail 14, where they can be easily inspected for wear and cleaning. Furthermore, as briefly noted in the above, the 30s do not make contact with the guiding track 40 and, thus, provide an additional surface area on the band 12 to transport a wider product while maintaining frictional contact desired minimum. During the return stroke, the links are inverted and hanging downward from the guide track 42.

Thus, there is no frictional clutch between the cusp 20, the segments 22 and the foot portions 24 and the flat surface provided by the flanges of the track 42. In contrast, the vertical contact occurs only with the projections that are directed towards in 28, which conveniently serves to further reduce the friction in the band 12. As the band 12 leaves the return stroke, each modular link engages a tooth of the gear 44 at the leading end of the system 10 and is Driven upwards towards the career advance. The transverse rods 19 allow pivoting movement, thereby allowing the back links to effectively rotate and follow the front links. The curved extensions of the guide track 49 facilitate smooth operation as the band 12 reverses the direction around the sprocket 44 (see the action arrow in Figure 4). Other possible modifications for the system include providing both sides of the modular links 18 with wing extensions 80 (shown on the dashed line side in Figure 2). These extensions 80 provide the band 12 with a surface area for retaining larger product, while avoiding the creation of any additional significant friction with the guide tracks 40, 42. Yet another modification includes joining side rails (not shown) to along the upper sides of the guide rail to help maintain the product on the band 12. As seen in Figure 7 and 7a, an alternative embodiment of the beam guide rail I 14a right includes upper and lower guide tracks, integrated, spaced 40a, 42a which are held together by a series of opposed clamping mounts 82. Each respective guiding track 40a, 42a includes the pair of opposed flanges that provide guiding / carrying surfaces for the links 18, as described in the foregoing in the preferred mode. Extending from each integrated guide track 40a, 42a is an elongated bulbous protrusion forming a pair of opposite shoulders. The securing mounts 82 include opposed brackets 86a, 86b each with an identical curved profile, but in a mirror image that serves to accept the shoulders (see Figure 7a). The connecting means 90, such as a screw / nut combination, secures the brackets 86a, 86b together through an opening located at the center 92. The fastening mounts 82 are positioned along the length of the tracks guiding 40a, 42a at separate intervals, as needed for support and stability. The profile of each bracket 86a, 86b may also include a semicircular segment 94 designed to accept a longitudinally extending support rod (not shown) for adding rigidity to the guide rail 14a, especially around the curved sections. The use of non-integrated holding mounts 82 provides greater flexibility to the conveyor system by allowing the space between the guiding tracks 40a, 42a to be adjusted simply by using longer or shorter brackets. In summary, numerous benefits resulting from employing the concepts of the present invention have been described. The conveyor system 10 includes a right beam beam guide rail 14 for use with a narrow modulator link conveyor belt 12 (see Figure 1). The band 12 is formed of a series of modular links 12 interconnected through a cusp 20 and spaced apart segments 22. The segments 22 terminate in foot portions 24 that have pendent arms 26 with guiding projections that face inwardly 28 to engage in sliding the integrated upper and lower guiding tracks extending outwardly 40, 42 (see Figures 2 and 3). These guide tracks 40, 42 can be incorporated in a single beam guide rail I in one piece 14 (Figure 5), or secured together in a separate relationship using a series of clamping brackets 82 (Figures 7 and 7a). In addition, each link 18 is provided with wings 30 which serve to increase the width of the band to transport wider products. A split gear 14 is releasably secured to the drive shaft 46 (see FIG. 4) and an intermediate shaft (not shown), to engage the belt 12. The releasable end guide components, including a metal plate 48 which houses a split connecting rod bushing 52, provide support and a bearing surface for these axes (see Figures 6 and 6a). A series of narrow chain conveyor belts located in a separate relationship provide product flow in multiple aisles (see Figure 1). The arcs or curves formed in the guiding rail 14 also allow interleaving flow or separation between a plurality of bands 12 (see Figure la). The aforementioned description of a preferred embodiment of the invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form described. Modifications or obvious variations are possible in light of the previous teachings. The embodiment was chosen and described to provide a better example of the principles of the invention and its practical application to thereby enable an expert with ordinary skill in the art to use the invention in different modalities and with different modifications as appropriate to the invention. private use contemplated. All of these modifications and variations are within the scope of the invention as determined by the attached clauses when interpreted according to the extent to which they are justly, legally and equitably written.

Claims (19)

1. A conveyor system that includes a modular link conveyor consists of: a plurality of integrated modular links forming the conveyor belt, each of the links having inwardly facing guiding projections; and a rail guide conveyor in the form of a straight beam I having upper and lower guiding tracks extending outwards, integrated, the inwardly directed guiding projections slidingly clutch the upper and lower guiding tracks.

The conveyor system according to claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of modular links further comprises: a cusp portion having a slot passing transversely therethrough; a pair of segment portions extending from the cusp portion, each segment portion includes a hole passing transversely therethrough and a slope arm that supports the guide projections that face inward; and a plurality of transverse connecting means, the connecting means passing through the slot and the holes for engaging the modular links integrated with each other to form the conveyor belt.

The conveyor system according to claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of the modular links further comprises: a cusp portion having a slot passing transversely therethrough; a pair of segment portions extending from the cusp portion, each of the segment portions also ending in the foot portions, each foot portion includes a hole passing transversely therethrough and a slope arm supporting the guiding projections that are directed into; a wing extending outwardly from each of the segment portions, each wing includes a slot passing transversely therethrough, the slot corresponding to the groove in apex portion; and a plurality of transverse connecting means, the connecting means passing through the slots and the holes for engaging modular links integrated together to form the conveyor belt.

4. The conveyor system according to claim 1 further includes the means for making the transition of the conveyor belt between the upper and lower guide tracks.

5. The conveyor system according to claim 4, wherein the transition means comprises an axle and a split sprocket secured so that it can be released to the shaft to engage the conveyor belt at one end of the guide rail.

6. The conveyor system according to claim 5, further includes the means for rotatably supporting the shaft.

The conveyor system according to claim 6, wherein the support means comprises: a mounting plate extending longitudinally from one end of the guide rail, the plate having an opening to allow the shaft to pass therethrough; a split connecting rod sleeve for the connection that can be secured in the opening in the mounting plate, the connecting rod providing a bearing surface for the shaft; and a retainer to secure the connecting rod bushing around the axle.

The conveyor system according to claim 7, wherein the split connecting rod sleeve further includes a plurality of integrated retaining projections cooperating with the corresponding notches formed in the opening in the mounting plate.

9. The conveyor system according to claim 8, wherein the shaft is driven by a driving means.

The conveyor system according to claim 6, wherein the support means are provided along a first and second side of the guide rail.

The conveyor system according to claim 3, wherein each of the wings of the modular links includes a wing extension, which increases the surface area of the modular links more.

12. The conveyor system according to claim 1 further includes the means for supporting the guiding rail on a floor.

The conveyor system according to claim 1, wherein the beam guide rail I, right, is formed integrally.

The conveyor system according to claim 1, wherein the upper and lower guide tracks are maintained in a separate relationship by a plurality of clamping mounts.

15. A conveyor system having a modular link conveyor comprises: a plurality of individual, integrated, modular links, each link includes a cusp portion, a pair of segment portions extending therefrom, and a wing extending from each segment, the the cusp portion and the wings include a slot passing transversely therethrough, each of the segment portions furthermore ending in a foot portion, each of the foot portions including a hole which transversely passes through them.; a plurality of transverse connecting means, the connecting means passing through the slots and the holes for engaging the modular links integrated with each other to form the conveyor belt; the guide means of the conveyor belt; the foot portions of each of the modular links further includes pendant arms having guiding projections that face inward to engage the conveyor guide means.

The conveyor system according to claim 16, wherein the guide means of the conveyor belt consist of a conveyor guide rail in the form of a straight beam I, the rail having upper and lower guide tracks that are directed outwards, integrated, whereby the guiding projections that go inward of the modular links slidably engage the guiding tracks.

17. The conveyor system according to claim 17, wherein the conveyor guide rail in the form of beam I, right is formed in an integrated manner.

The conveyor system according to claim 17, wherein the upper and lower guide tracks are held in a spaced apart relationship by a plurality of clamping mounts.

19. The conveyor system according to claim 16 includes the driver means for driving the conveyor belt along the guide means.