WO2014060841A2

WO2014060841A2 - Conveyor systems with modules and connectors, and methods of use and manufacture

Info

Publication number: WO2014060841A2
Application number: PCT/IB2013/002635
Authority: WO
Inventors: Marco BELTRAMI
Original assignee: System Plast S.R.L.
Priority date: 2012-09-07
Filing date: 2013-09-04
Publication date: 2014-04-24
Also published as: WO2014060841A3; ITRM20120430A1

Abstract

A conveyor system can comprise a plurality of belt modules connected to one another using a plurality of inserts to form a belt assembly. The inserts can include flexible wings configured to secure the inserts to the plurality of belt modules. Teeth or other engagement features of a belt-moving apparatus (e.g., a sprocket) can be engaged with the outer ends of the belt modules to facilitate movement of the belt assembly by the belt-moving apparatus.

Description

CONVEYOR SYSTEMS WITH MODULES AND CONNECTORS, AND METHODS OF USE AND MANUFACTURE

BACKGROUND

Field

[08ΘΙ] The disclosure relates generally to the field of conveyor systems and, in some embodiments, to conveyor systems with connectors.

Description of the Related Art

[0002] Conveyor systems are commonly employed in various commercial and manufacturing applications to transport objects between different processing stations and locations. A conveyor system typically includes a conveyor belt or chain that is arranged in an endless loop and driven to transport the objects on the chain surface along a generally horizontal path. The conveyor belt can be made of a plurality of individual links or modules. Adjacent links can be hingedly connected with one another, thereby allowing the links to form the conveyor.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0003] A conveyor system can comprise a plurality of modules connected to one another. In certain conveyor systems, adjacent belt modules are connected with connectors, inserts, and/or securing portions, such as pins. In some embodiments, the conveyor system can include a pin having one or more flanges and/or flexible wings, on an end of the pin. The flanges can be configured to engage with one or more cavities in a module of a belt or chain to secure the pin in the module. For example, the cavity can be configured to receive and/or retain the flanges of the pin to limit or resist rotational and/or axial movement of the pin relative to the belt module.

[0004] Certain embodiments of the connector can facilitate engagement of an outer edge of the belt module with a belt-moving apparatus, such as a sprocket. For example, teeth or other engagement features of the sprocket can be engaged with the outer end regions of the belt modules, thereby facilitating movement of the conveyor assembly by the conveyor-moving apparatus. In some embodiments, teeth or other engagement features of the sprocket can be engaged with the outer end regions of the belt modules when the end of the connector is positioned at a location that is spaced away from the region between the ends of the modules and/or spaced away from the end surface of the modules. In certain embodiments, engagement of the sprocket with the outer region or edge of the belt can enhance the stability and/or facilitate an increase in the operating speed of the conveyor system (e.g., in comparison to systems in which the sprocket engages a portion of the conveyor other than the outer edge), in certain designs, engaging the sprocket with the outer edge of the bell can facilitate assembly of the belt with the sprocket, such as by reducing the difficulty of mating the teeth of the sprocket with apertures in the belt.

[0005] In some embodiments, a conveyor system includes a first belt module (e.g., a first link) haying a plurality of first module channel portions (e.g., legs, fingers, nodules, projections, knobs, peaks, or otherwise). In some embodiments, the first module channel portions are portions of the first belt module that include a channel, aperture, hole, or the like. In various embodiments, at least one of the first module channel portions can include a first channel aperture (e.g., a hole or opening) and an engaging portion (e.g., a cavity, a recess, or an annular housing). In various embodiments, the engaging portion is hollow. The engaging portion can have a securing structure (e.g., a protrusion, nub, detent, bump, ridge, dimple, lip, ratchet, narrowed portion, indentation, a recess, divot, or groove). In some embodiments, each first module channel portion is connected (e.g., directly or indirectly) to at least one other first module channel portion via a structural element (e.g., a web).

[0006] The conveyor system can include a second belt module (e.g., a second link) having a plurality of second module channel portions (e.g., legs, fingers, projections, nodules, knobs, peaks, or otherwise). At least one of the second module channel portions can include a second channel aperture (e.g., a hole or opening). In certain variants, each second module channel portion is connected to at least one other second module channel portion via a structural element (e.g., a web).

[0007] In some embodiments, the conveyor system has at least one pin (e.g., axle or insert). The pin can be configured to connect (e.g., engage directly or indirectly ) the first belt module and the second belt module, such as by engaging through the first channel aperture and the second channel aperture.

[0008] Certain embodiments of the pin include an insertion end, a securement end (e.g., a locking end), and an elongate body portion (e.g., a shaft), in some embodiments, the elongate body portion has a longitudinal axis and a cross-sectional shape substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. According to some variants, the insertion end is configured to be inserted through the first channel aperture and the second channel aperture. In some embodiments, the securement end is configured to be rotatably received in (e.g., inserted into) the engaging portion of the at least one first module channel portion. The securement end can include a radially outwardly extending (e.g., with respect to the longitudinal axis) flange (e.g., wing or extension). The flange can include a curved securing portion (e.g., a wave-shaped part) and a curved receiving portion. In some embodiments, when the securement end is received in the engaging portion and the pin is rotated relative to the engaging portion (e.g., at least about: 35°, 45°, 90°, 135°, 180°, 270°, values between the aforementioned values, an otherwise): the securing structure of the engaging portion protrudes into the curved receiving portion of the flange of the pin; and/or the securing portion inhibits further rotation of the pin relative to the engaging portion, in some embodiments, when the securement end is received in the engaging portion and the pin is rotated relative to the engaging portion, the receiving portion of the flange of the pin receives (e.g., accepts, covers, contacts, mates with, or otherwise) at least some of the securing structure of the engaging portion.

[0009] In some cases, the at least one first module channel portion has an engagement opening (e.g., aperture or hole) shaped to receive the flange. In some embodiments, rotation of the flange within the engaging portion (e.g., to an extent that the flange is rotationally misaligned (e.g., skewed) with the engagement opening) can inhibit withdrawal of the flange from the cavity in any direction generally parallel to a first aperture axis of the first channel aperture (e.g., generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the body of the pin).

[0010] According to some variants, the engagement opening has a cross- section with a major axis (e.g., wider portion) and a minor axis (e.g., narrower portion). In certain implementations, the engaging portion extends further in a radially -outward direction from the first aperture axis than the engagement opening in at least the radial directions substantially parallel to the minor axis of the cross-section of the engagement opening. In some embodiments, the flange is sized and shaped such that the flange can pass through (e.g., enter) the engagement opening in a first rotational orientation and is inhibited or prevented from passing through the engagement opening in a second rotational orientation (e.g., by a physical interference). In some embodiments, the engagement opening has a continuous (e.g., unbroken) periphery.

[0011] In some embodiments, the curved securing portion and the curved receiving portion are curved in substantially opposite directions. In some embodiments, the flange extends radially outward from the securement end a distance less than or equal to a fraction (such as about: 1/2, 1/3. 1/4, 1/5, 1/6, 1/8, 1/10, values between the aforementioned values, and otherwise) of a cross-sectional width (e.g., diameter) of the elongate body portion, in some embodiments, the conveyor system includes a conveyor- moving sprocket configured to engage with (e.g., drive) a portion (e.g., a module channel portion) of the first belt module and with a portion (e.g., a module channel portion) of the second belt module.

[0012] According to some variants, the securing structure comprises a longitudinally extending tooth (e.g., protrusion, nub, bump, or extension). In some embodiments, the securing structure is received in (e.g., inserted into) an apex of the curve of the receiving portion. In some embodiments, the securing structure is positioned (e.g., housed or retained) at least partially within the engaging portion, in some embodiments, the engaging portion is partially defined by an abutment (e.g., a stop or wall), the abutment can be configured to inhibit the flange from passing through the first channel aperture. In some embodiments, the at least one first module channel portion comprises a window (e.g., opening or aperture) in an outer periphery (e.g., radially-outer wall) of the engaging portion, the window configured to facilitate visual confirmation of engagement between the securing structure and the curved receiving portion,

[0013] In some embodiments, the cross -sectional shape of the elongate body portion is circular. In some embodiments, at least one of the first channel aperture and the second channel aperture has a circular cross-section. In some embodiments, the securement end of the pin includes a recess (e.g., indentation), the recess configured to receive (e.g., mate with) a tool (e.g., a screwdriver or wrench), the tool configured to rotate the pin. In some embodiments, the amount that the pin is rotated relative to the engaging portion is about 90 degrees. In some embodiments, the pin is configured to remain substantially unbent (e.g., straight) relative to the longitudinal axis as the insertion end is inserted through the first channel aperture and through the second channel aperture. In some embodiments, the flange and the elongate body portion of the pin form a monolithic (e.g., unbroken, single, or whole) part. In some embodiments, the elongate body portion has a substantially constant cross-sectional shape between the insertion end of the pin and the securement end of the pin.

[0014] In some instances, a conveyor system comprises a first belt module having a plurality of first module channel portions (e.g., legs, fingers, nodules, projections, knobs, peaks, or otherwise). At least one of the first module channel portions can include a first channel aperture and a securing cavity. The securing cavity can have a plurality of protrusions (e.g., nubs, detents, bumps, ridges, dimples, lips, ratchets, narrowed portions). Certain variants of the securing cavity are partially bounded (e.g., defined by) by opposing walls, in some embodiments, each first module channel portion is connected (e.g., directly or indirectly) to at least one other first module channel portion via a structural element.

[0015] In some embodiments, the conveyor system includes a second belt module having a plurality of second module channel portions (e.g., legs, fingers, nodules, projections, knobs, peaks, or otherwise). At least one of the second module channel portions can include a second channel aperture In certain implementations, each second module channel portion is connected to at least one other second module channel portion via a structural element.

[0016] In some cases, the conveyor system comprises at least one pin. The pin can be configured to be inserted at least partially through the first channel aperture and the second channel aperture. The pin can have a body (e.g., a shaft) having an insertion end, a securement end, and a longitudinal axis. The insertion end can be configured to be inserted through the first channel aperture and the second channel aperture.

[0017] In some embodiments, the pin has a first flange at or near the securement end of the body. The first flange can extend radially outward from the longitudinal axis. In some variations, the at least one pin has a second flange at or near the securement end of the body, the second flange extending radially outward from the longitudinal axis in a direction generally opposite from the first flange. In some embodiments, one or both of the first and second flanges include a curved portion. The curved portion can be configured to rotatably releasably engage with (e.g., deflect and/or be deflected by) one or more of the protrusions of the securing cavity.

[0018] In some cases, when some or each of the curved portions are engaged with respective protrusions: the engagement between the curved portions and the protrusions inhibits rotation of the at least one pin about the longitudinal axis with respect to the first module channel portion comprising the protrusion; and/or the opposing walls of the securing cavity provide an interference with (e.g., a physical stop) the first flange and the second flange to inhibit translation of the pin generally parallel to the longitudinal axis with respect to the at feast one first belt module.

[0019] According to some variants, the first flange and the second flange have substantially the same size and shape. In some cases, the pin is formed as a monolithic part. In some cases, the pin is injection molded, in some embodiments, the first belt module is injection molded. In some instances, the second belt module is injection molded. The securement end of the body can include a recess configured to receive a tool. Tn some embodiments, at least one of the opposing walls of the securing cavity forms an abutment configured to inhibit the securement end of the body from passing through the securing cavity, in some instances, the at least one first module channel portion includes an engagement opening sized and shaped to substantially match an outer periphery of the first and second flanges.

[0020] In some embodiments, a conveyor system can comprise a first belt module having a plurality of first module channel portions (e.g., legs, fingers, nodules, projections, knobs, peaks, or otherwise). At least one of tire first module channel portions can include a first channel aperture, an engagement opening, and/or an engaging portion (e.g., a hollow engaging portion). The engaging portion can have an engagement channel. The engagement channel can have a first portion with a first width and a second portion with a second width. In several embodiments, the first width is less than the second width. In some implementations, each first module channel portion is connected (e.g., directly or indirectly) to at least one other first module channel portion via a structural element.

[0021] The conveyor system can comprise a second belt module having a plurality of second module channel portions (e.g., legs, fingers, nodules, projections, knobs, peaks, or otherwise). At least one of the second module channel portions can include a second channel aperture. In certain variants, each second module channel portion is connected (e.g., directly or indirectly) to at least one other second module channel portion via a structural element.

[0022] In some cases, the conveyor system comprises at least one pin configured to connect (e.g.. directly or indirectly) the first belt module and the second belt module. For example, the pin can engage through the first channel aperture and the second channel aperture.

[0023] Various embodiments of the pin can have an insertion end, a securement end, and/or an elongate body portion. In some embodiments, the elongate body portion has a longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the insertion end is configured to be inserted through the first channel aperture and the second channel aperture. In some cases, the securement end is configured to be received in the engaging portion in a first rotational position. [0024] According to some variants, the securement end comprises a flexible (e.g., deformable or resilient) flange having a width (e.g., axial extent) along the longitudinal axis that is greater than the first width (e.g., axial extent) of the engagement channel. The flexible flange can be configured to flex, such as in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis. In some cases, when the securement end is positioned in the engaging portion and the pin is rotated relative to the engaging portion about the longitudinal axis to a first position, the flexible flange engages (e.g., contacts, abuts, moves along, or otherwise interacts with) the first portion of the engagement channel. In some embodiments, such engagement results in the flange being flexed (e.g., deformed, bent, or moved) substantially along the longitudinal axis, in some instances, when the securement end is positioned in the engaging portion and the pin is rotated relative to the engaging portion about the longitudinal axis to a second positioned beyond (e.g., further than) the first position: the flexible flange is disengaged from the first portion of the engagement channel, thereby allowing the flange to substantially return to its unfiexed (e.g., at rest) configuration; and/or rotation of the pin with respect to the engagement channel and translation of the pin with respect to the engagement channel in a direction generally parallel to the longitudinal axis is inhibited, in some embodiments, the first width and the second width are bounded between opposing walls of the engagement channel.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] Various embodiments are depicted in the accompanying drawings for illustrative purposes, and should in no way be interpreted as limiting the scope of the disclosure, in which like reference characters denote corresponding features consistently throughout similar embodiments.

[0026] Figure 1A is a perspective view of a conveyor system.

[0027] Figure I B is another perspective view of the conveyor system of

Figure iA.

[0028] Figure 2A is a perspective view of a belt module.

Figure 2B is a top plan view of the belt module of Figure 2A.

Figure 2C is a bottom plan view of the belt module of Figure 2A. Figure 2D is a front plan view of the belt module of Figure 2A.

332] Figure 2E is a left side plan view of the belt module of Figure 2A.

[0033] Figure 2F is a right side plan view of the belt module of Figure 2A. [0034] FFiigguurree 2G is a partial perspective cross-section view of the belt module of Figure 2A.

[0035] Figure

[0036] Figure

[0037] Figure

[0038] Figure

[0039] Figure

of Figure 3 A.

[0040] FFiigguurree 4A is a perspective view of two belt modules and a connector in an exploded state.

[0041] Figure 4B is a perspective view of the belt modules and connector of Figure 4A in a partially engaged state,

[0042] Figure 4C is a perspective view of the belt modules and connector of Figure 4A in a fully engaged state.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] The present disclosure describes certain illustrative embodiments of a conveyor system. The illustrated embodiments of the system include each of the features designated by the numbers used herein. However, these features need not be present in all embodiments.

[0044] With reference Figures 1 A and I B, an illustrative embodiment of a conveyor system 100 is illustrated. In some embodiments, the conveyor system 100 can include a conveyor, such as a belt assembly 1 10, and a conveyor-moving apparatus, such as a sprocket 102. In some embodiments, the sprocket 102 has a plurality of belt- engaging portions (e.g., teeth 104). The teeth 104 can define a plurality of seats 106 around a perimeter of the sprocket 102. The sprocket 102 can include a drive engagement portion, such as a recess, a surface feature, or an aperture 108. The aperture 108 can have a non-circular cross-section configured to match a driving engagement portion of a conveyor assembly. In some embodiments, the conveyor system 100 includes a belt assembly 1 10 and a track apparatus (not shown). The track apparatus can be configured to engage with a portion of the belt assembly 110 to support and/or guide the belt assembly 1 10 along a path defined by the track apparatus. For example, the track- apparatus could comprise one or more rails configured to support the belt assembly 1 10 laterally and/or vertically along the path defined by the track apparatus. In some embodiments, the track apparatus can include one or more belt-moving portions (e.g., sprockets, rollers, magnets, high friction tracks) that can motivate the belt assembly 1 10 along the path.

[0045] The belt assembly 1 10 can include a plurality of modules, such as belt modules 120. In certain implementations, the belt modules 120 are substantially identical (e.g., in overall shape, dimensions, material, and/or otherwise). In some embodiments, each of the belt modules 120 are substantially identical. The belt modules 120 can include first body portions 121 and second body portions 123 connected via one or more structural elements 138. As shown, some embodiments include a plurality of discrete structural elements 138. Certain implementations include a generally continuous structural element 138. For example, the generally continuous structural element 138 extends substantially from one lateral edge of the belt module 120 to the other lateral edge of the belt module 120 and/or is substantially straight (e.g., generally perpendicular to the direction of belt travel). The first body portion 121 can include one or more first channel portions 122 (e.g., legs, fingers, peaks, knobs, nodules, projections, or otherwise). In some embodiments, the second body portion 123 includes one or more second channel portions 124 (e.g., legs, fingers, peaks, knobs, nodules, projections, or otherwise). In some variants, the first and second channel portions 122, 124 can include apertures therethrough. In various embodiments, as discussed below, the apertures can be configured to receive a pin therethrough. Some embodiments of the channel portions have a generally cylindrical shape. As shown in Figure 2B, when viewed from above, certain variants of the channel portions have a generally rectangular (e.g., square) shape.

[0046] In some embodiments, the adjacent belt modules 120 are connected to each other in the belt assembly 1 10. For example, in certain implementations, the belt module 120 can include gaps 1 12, 1 14 (see Fig, 2B) configured to facilitate interlacing of adjacent belt modules. In certain implementations, the gap 1 12 of a first belt module 120 can be configured to receive the first channel portion 122 of a second belt module 120, and the gap 1 14 of the second belt module 120 can be configured to receive the second channel portion 124 of the first belt module 120, thereby facilitating interlacing of the adjacent belt modules. In some embodiments, the lateral width of the gap 1 14 is greater than or equal to the lateral width of the gap 112,

[0047] In accordance with some embodiments, the adjacent belt modules 120 are connected with a connector and/or an insert, such as a pin 160. For example, some or each of the first and second channel portions 122, 124 can be configured to receive a portion of the pin 160. in certain embodiments, when adjacent belt modules 120 are interlaced, the pin 160 is received in the first channel portion 122 of a first belt module 120 and in the second channel portion 124 of a second belt module 120, thereby hingedly connecting the first and second belt modules 120. In some embodiments, the belt modules 120 are connected to one another such that the belt assembly 1 10 forms a loop along the length of the belt assembly 1 10. In some configurations, the belt assembly 1 10 has two distinct, unconnected ends.

[0048] As shown, the belt assembly 1 10 can be configured to engage with the sprocket 102. For example, teeth 104 of the sprocket 102 can be received in spaces between adjacent belt modules 120. In some embodiments, the teeth 104 engage (e.g., abut) the first channel portion 122 and/or the second channel portion 124, thereby encouraging movement of the belt 1 10 when the sprocket 102 rotates. In certain implementations, the first channel portion 122 and/or the second channel portion 124 are configured to engage seats 106 and/or other belt-engaging portions of the sprocket 102, an example of which is illustrated in Figures 1A and I B. In certain implementations, the sprocket 102 and/or the channel portions 122, 124 include friction increasing regions, such as non-smooth areas, which can facilitate transfer of force between the sprocket 102 and the belt assembly 1 10.

[0049] The belt assembly 1 10 can include outer regions (e.g., outer edges) at the lateral sides of the belt assembly 1 10. In certain embodiments, the sprocket 102 engages the belt assembly 1 10 at or near the outer regions. In some implementations, at least some of the first and second channel portions 12.2, 12.4 are positioned at the outer regions of the belt assembly 1 10. For example, in the illustrative embodiment of Figures 1A and IB, the belt assembly 1 10 includes first channel portions 122 at the outer regions of the belt assembly 1 10, and these first channel portions 122 are engagable by the sprocket 102. Engagement between the sprocket 102 and the outer region of the belt assembly 110 can, for example, reduce lateral movement of the belt assembly 1 10 with respect to the sprocket 102. and increase the stability of the conveyor system 100, In certain implementations, engaging the sprocket 102 with the outer region of the belt assembly 110 can reduce the chance of misalignment of the sprocket 102 and belt assembly 1 10 and/or can facilitate achieving a high speed at which the sprocket 102 can drive the belt assembly 1 10.

[0050] As illustrated in Figures 2 A and 2B, the belt modules 120 can include a first body portion 121 and a second body portion 123 that can be connected via the structural elements 138. In the illustrated embodiment, the first body portion 121 has three first channel portions 122 (two outermost first channel portions 122 and one inner first channel portion 122) and the second body portion 123 has two second channel portions 124. in the illustrated embodiment, a plurality of the first channel portions 122 are positioned near or at the lateral outer edges of the belt assembly 1 10. in some embodiments, at least one of the second channel portions 124 is positioned near or at the lateral outer edges of the belt. For example, the belt modules 120 can be configured such that one of the first channel portions 122 is positioned near or at the lateral outer edges of the belt assembly 1 10 and one of the second channel portions 124 is positioned near or at the lateral outer edges of the belt assembly 1 10. In certain implementations, at least one of the second channel portions 124 is positioned near or at the lateral outer edges of the belt assembly 1 10.

[0051] In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first channel portions 122 can be connected to one or more of the second channel portions 124 via at least one of the structural elements 138. For example, the inner first channel portion 122 can be connected to one or more of the two second channel portions 124 via structural elements 138. In certain variants, the inner first channel portion 122 is positioned generally midway between the lateral outer edges of the belt module 120. As illustrated, in some embodiments the first channel portions 122 and the second channel portions 124 have generally the same peripheral shape, such as generally cylindrical, rectangular prismatic, or otherwise. In some embodiments, the first channel portions 122 have a different peripheral shape than the second channel portions 124. In certain implementations, one or more of the first channel portions 122 and the second channel portions 124 have a peripheral cross-sectional shape that is generally: circular, elliptical, triangular, rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, octagonal, or otherwise.

[0052] As will be described in farther detail below, in certain embodiments, the first channel portions 122. and/or the second channel portions 124 can include a pin- engagement portion. The pin- engagement portion can include an opening 126, a securing structure 132 (such as a protrusion or an indentation), and a window 134. The opening 126 can be sized and shaped to closely or tightly receive portions of the pin 160. As illustrated, in certain variants, at least one of the outermost first channel portions 122 can include the pin-engagement portion. In some embodiments, at least one of the second channel portions 124 can include the pin- engagement portion. [0053] Various embodiments of the belt modules 120 have a wide range of dimensions and sizes, in some embodiments, the width W of the belt modules 120 is approximately 38 millimeters, in some embodiments, the width W is greater than or equal to about 15 millimeters and/or less than or equal to about 55 millimeters. In some embodiments, the height H of the belt modules 120 is approximately 9 millimeters. The height H can be greater than or equal to approximately 4 millimeters and/or less than or equal to approximately 20 millimeters. Of course, the above-mentioned dimensions are illustrative only and some embodiments of the belt modules 120 have other dimensions. For example, the belt modules 120 can have overall dimensions (e.g., width W and/or height H) that are about: 2 times, 4 times, 10 times, or otherwise, greater than or less than the dimensions disclosed above. In some embodiments, the width of at least one of the first channel portions 122 is greater than or equal to at least one of the second channel portions 124. In some variants, the width of each of the first channel portions 122 is greater than or equal to each of the second channel portions 124, In certain embodiments, the first channel portions 122 located at or near the lateral edges of the module 120 have widths that are greater than or equal to the width of an inner first channel portion 122 that is not located at or near the lateral edges of the module 120.

[0054] In some embodiments, the diameter of at least one of the first channel portions 122 is greater than or equal to the diameter of at least one of the second channel portions 124. Certain geometric terms used herein, such as "radius" and "diameter" (and variants thereof), are intended to be applied broadly, and should not be limited to only circular or cylindrical structures, but instead can be applied to any structure comprising a central axis or region and a peripheral surface or region. In certain embodiments, the diameter of at least one of the second channel portions 12.4 is greater than or equal to the diameter of at least one of the first channel portions 122.

[0055] In some embodiments, the first and second channel portions 122, 124 and structural elements 138 are a monolithic component (e.g., are unitarily formed). For example, the belt module 120 can be injection molded as a single component. In some embodiments, each of the first and second channel portions 122, 124 and structural elements 138 are formed (e.g.. injection molded) separately. In some such embodiments, the channel portions 122, 124 and structural elements 138 can be joined together via adhesives, welding, or other methods to fonn standard or custom belt modules 120. The structural elements 138 can be generally identical to each other. In some variants, one or more of the structural elements 138 has different dimensions or characteristics from the other structural elements 138. in some embodiments, portions of, or the entire, belt module 120 are constructed of a thermoplastic or metal. For example, the belt modules

120 can be made of polyoxymethylene, polybutylene terephtbalate, or some other rigid or semi-rigid polymer.

[0056] In the illustrated embodiment, the first channel portions 122 of the first body portion 121 each include a passage that together form a first connector channel 128 (e.g., a first insert and/or pin channel). In some variants, the passage of each of the first channel portions 122 can be collinear. The second channel portions 124 of the second body portion 123 can include passages that together form a second connector channel 129 (e.g., a second insert and/or pin channel). For example, the passages of each of the second channel portions 124 can be collinear. In certain embodiments, some of the passages are not collinear with others of the passages. For example, the first body portion

121 can include a channel portion 122 with a passage that is not collinear with the passages of the other the first channel portions 122. In certain embodiments, at least one of the passages has a diameter of at least approximately 5 millimeters. In some embodiments, the passages have a diameter greater than or equal to about 2.5 millimeters and/or less than or equal to about 12 millimeters. In some embodiments, the diameter of the portion of the first channel 128 located in at least one of the inner first channel portions 122 is greater than or equal to the diameter of the portion of the second channel 129 located in at least one of the second channel portions 124. in certain embodiments, at least one of the channels 128, 129 lias a non-constant diameter. For example, the diameter of the first channel 128 can be tapered (e.g., generally linearly),

[0057] The belt modules 120 can be configured such that the first connector channel 128 is generally parallel to the second connector channel 129. Such configurations can, for example, facilitate the construction of a belt assembly 1 10 with a straight movement path. In some embodiments, the first connector channel 128 is not generally or exactly parallel with the second connector channel 129 within one or more of the belt modules 120, Such embodiments could, for example, allow for bends in the movement path of the belt assembly 1 10 as it is driven by one or more sprockets 102, track apparatuses, and/or other belt-moving devices.

[0058] As shown in Figures 2E and 2F, one or both of the connector channels 128, 129 can have a generally circular cross-sectional shape. In certain embodiments, one or both of the connector channels 128, 129 have a non-circular cross- sectional shape. For example, one or both of the connector channels 128, 129 can have an oblong or elongated cross-sectional shape, which can allow adjacent belt modules to move relative to one another in the plane of the belt assembly 110. Such relative movement can permit the belt assembly 1 10 to move along a generally straight line as well as around turns. Certain embodiments of the first and second connector channels 128, 129 can have similar or identical cross-sectional shapes. Some variants of the first and second connector channels 128, 129 can have dissimilar cross-sectional shapes, in some embodiments, the cross-sectional shape of one or both of the first and second connector channels 128, 129 is configured to correspond with the cross-sectional shape of the pin 160. For example, if the pin 160 is generally cylindrical (and thus has a generally circular cross-sectional shape), the connector channels 128, 129 can be configured to have generally circular cross-sectional shape.

[0059] As noted above, one or both of the first and second channel portions 122, 124 can include a connector-engagement portion. For example, as illustrated in Figures 2F-2G, at least one of the outermost first channel portions 122 can include the engagement opening 126 and the cavity 130. In certain implementations, an axial end of the cavity 130 terminates at an abutment 127. In some cases, as illustrated in Figure 2C, the cavity has a first width W l and a second width W2, The first width Wl can be measured between the securing feature 132 (e.g., protrusion) and the opposing wall. The second width W2 can be measured from the abutment 127 to the opposing wall, in some embodiments, the first width Wl is narrower than the second width W2. In some embodiments, the cavity 130 extends radially outward with respect to the longitudinal axis of the connector channel 128. In some embodiments, the cavity 130 forms a substantially cylindrical space. In some embodiments, one or more portions of the ca vity 130 extend radially outward (with respect to the longitudinal axis of the connector channel 128) to a greater extent than other portions of the cavity 130.

[0060] In some implementations, the cavity is generally not visible from the top and bottom of the belt module 120. For example, the cavity can be configured so as to be spaced from and/or to not protrude through, or intersect with, a plane generally parallel with the bottom face of the belt module 120. Some embodiments of the cavity 130 can be located entirely within one of the first channel portions 122.

[0061] In certain embodiments, the cavity is visible from at least one of the top and bottom of the belt module 120. For example, the cavity 130 can protrude through, or intersect with, a plane that is generally parallel with the bottom face of the belt module 120. Certain embodiments of the cavity 130 can extend through the radial thickness of the first channel portion 122 to form a window 134 (e.g., an opening or notch) in communication with the external environment, such as is shown in Figures 2C, 2D, and 2G. Certain variants of the window 134 are configured to facilitate visual confirmation of proper positioning of the pin 160 in the belt module 120, as will be discussed in further detail below, in some embodiments, the window 134 is located in at least one of the second channel portions 124.

[0062] In some embodiments, the cavity 130 includes a securing portion, such as a securing structure 132 (e.g., a detent, bump, ridge, dimple, lip, ratchet, narrowed portion, or otherwise), an indentation (e.g., a recess, divot, groove, or otherwise), and/or some other pin-engaging feature. In some embodiments, the cavity 130 includes two securing portions located generally opposite one another with respect to the longitudinal axis of the first connector channel 128. In some embodiments, the cavity 130 includes one securing portion. Certain embodiments have more than two securing portions (e.g., three or four securing portions). In certain variants, the securing portion is generally centered in the window 134.

[0063] With regard to Figures 3A-3E, an illustrative embodiment of the pin 160 is provided. The pin 160 can have a body 162 extending along a longitudinal axis 171 between a first end 164 and a second end 166, As illustrated, the body 162 can be generally cylindrical in shape (e.g., has a generally circular cross-section). In some embodiments, the body 162 has a cross-sectional shape that is generally square, rectangular, star-shaped, elliptical, irregular, or otherwise. In certain variants, the cross- sectional width of the body 162 can be approximately 4.5 millimeters. As discussed herein, the width of the body 162 refers to the largest dimension of the cross-sectional shape of the body 162, when the cross-section is taken perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 171 of the pin 160. For example, in an embodiment in which the body 162. is generally cylindrical in shape, the cross-sectional shape is generally circular and the width of the body 162 is the diameter of the generally circular shape. In some embodiments, the width of the body 162 is greater than about 1.5 millimeters and/or less than or equal to about 10 millimeters. The width of the body 162 can be greater than approximately 75% of the width (e.g., diameter) of at least one of the connector channels 128, 129 and/or less than or equal to the width of at least one of the connector channels 128, 129.

[0064] Many sizes and configurations for the pin 160 are contemplated and included herein. In some embodiments, the length L of the pin 160 is approximately 36 millimeters. In some embodiments, the length L is greater than about 15 millimeters and/or less than or equal to about 50 millimeters. In some variants, the length L of the pin 160 is approximately 8 times the diameter of the body 162. In some embodiments, the length L of the pin 160 is greater than or equal to approximately 4 times the diameter of the body 162 and/or less than or equal to approximately 15 times the diameter of the body 162. For example, the pin 160 can have overall dimensions (e.g., length, diameter) 2 times, 4 times, 10 times, or otherwise greater than or less than the dimensions disclosed above.

[0065] Certain variants of the pin 160 can be sized to have a longitudinal length L that is less than or equal to the width W of the belt module 120, thereby permitting the length of the pin 160 to be received within the belt module 120. In some implementations, when the pin 160 is engaged with the belt module 120, the pin 160 does not project laterally outward from the outer edges of the belt module 120. In some implementations, when the pin 160 is engaged with the belt module 120, the pin 160 does not project outward from the top and/or bottom faces of the belt module 120.

[0066] As noted above, the pin 160 can include first and second ends. In some embodiments, the first end 164 of the pin 160 can be contoured (e.g., rounded, chamfered, or filleted) to facilitate insertion of the pin 160 into the connector channels 128, 129. The second end 166 of the pin 160 can include a fixation feature. For example, the fixation feature can comprise a radially-outward extending portion, such as a wing 170. As illustrated, the pin 160 can include a plurality of (e.g., two) wings 170. In some embodiments, the fixation feature can comprise one wing, three wings, or more. As will be discussed in farther detail below, at least one of the wings 170 can be configured to engage with the pin-engagement structure of the belt module 120 (e.g., the securing structure 132 within the cavities 130). In certain embodiments, when the pin 160 is engaged with the belt module 120, longitudinal movement of the pin 160 is inhibited or prevented.

[0067] In certain implementations, the wings 170 and body 162 of the pin 160 are monolithic (e.g., unitarily formed). In some variants, the wings 170 can be constructed separately from the body 162 and adhered, welded, or otherwise affixed to the body 162. In some embodiments, the wings 170 are constructed of the same material as the body 162 of the pin 160. In certain embodiments, the wings 170 are made of a different material from that of the body 162. In various implementations, the wings 170 and/or the body 162 can be constructed of a metal or thermoplastic (e.g., polyoxymethylene, polybutylene terephthalate, or some other rigid or semi-rigid polymer).

[0068] Tn some embodiments, the radial extent of the wings 170 outward from an outer surface of the body 162 is small. Such configurations can, for example, reduce the moment force exerted on the wings 170 during use (e.g., insertion and/or removal) of the pins 160, thereby increasing the strength and/ or durability of the pin 160, in some embodiments, the distance from the outer surface of the body 162 to the outermost tip of one of the wings 170 is less titan or equal to about the thickness of the wing 170 or about the thickness of a longitudinally-extending structural element 138 of a module, or less than or equal to about: 0.5 mm, 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, values in between, or otherwise. In some embodiments, the wings 170 have span distance D (e.g., the distance from the outermost tip of one wing to the outermost tip of the other wing, such as is illustrated in Figure 3D) of approximately 6 millimeters or less. In some embodiments, the span distance D is greater titan or equal to about 2 millimeters and/or less than or equal to about 12 millimeters. In some embodiments, the span distance D of the wings 170 is greater than or equal to approximately 105% of the diameter of the body 162 and/or less than or equal to approximately 125% of the diameter of the body 162. in certain variants, the span distance D is approximately equal to the diameter, cross-sectional width, or greatest transverse dimension of an opening 126 of a module into which the connector is positioned.

[0069] The profile of the wings 170 (e.g., as shown in Figure 3D) can be configured to be smaller than, or to generally correspond with or match, the profile of the engagement openings 126 (e.g., as shown in Figure 2F), For example, the engagement opening 126 can have a non-circular profile (e.g., generally elliptical, rectangular, or otherwise) and the wings 170 of the pin 160 can be configured to generally have a corresponding shape. In some embodiments, the engagement opening 126 has a continuous (e.g., unbroken) periphery. For example, as shown in Figure 2.A, at least one of the first channel portions 122 can have a substantially or completely continuous shoulder (e.g., on a lateral edge of the belt module 120) that hounds the opening 126. This can protect the pin 160, can inhibit movement of the pin relative to the module 120, and/or can reduce the likelihood of the pin 160 being unintentionally disengaged from the module 120. In some embodiments, substantially the entire or the entire periphery of the wings are received in (e.g., pass through) the opening 126 bounded by the shoulder. In certain variants, the shoulder is generally annular. In some embodiments, the engagement opening 126 and the pin 160 each have a profile with one or more (e.g., at least two) generally flat sides and one or more (e.g., at least two) curved sides. In some embodiments, the first end 164, body 162 and wings 170 of the pin 160 can be passed through, or be received in, the engagement opening 126. in certain variants, the wings 170 can contact the abutment 127, which can limit the longitudinal travel of the pin 160 into the connector channels 128, 129 of the belt modules.

[0070] In the some embodiments, the wings 170 are generally symmetric. For example, the wings 170 can be generally symmetric about two perpendicular longitudinal planes: the first longitudinal plane can pass through the longitudinal axis 171 of the pin 160 and be generally parallel to the plane of the page of Figure 3B; the second longitudinal plane can pass through the longitudinal axis 171 of the pin 160 and be generally parallel to the plane of the page of Figure 3C. In some embodiments, the symmetric configuration of the wings 170 facilitates manufacturability and/or assembly of the belt assembly 1 10, as will be discussed in further detail below, in some embodiments, each of the wings 170 is substantially identical to each other wing 170.

[0071] According to certain variants, at least one of the wings 170 includes a generally curved and/or undulating surface with one or more local maxima and minima or turning points or regions, such as a surface that comprises an inner curved portion 172 and outer curved portions 174. In some embodiments, the inner curved portion 172 defines a recess, bend, groove, divot, recess, or detent-receiving portion. In some variants, the inner curved portion 172 is generally midway between the outer curved portions 174. In certain implementations, the wings 170 have a generally undulating shape (e.g., generally sinusoidal, wave-like, or otherwise), such as is illustrated in Figure 3B. In some embodiments, the undulating shape can result in the wings 170 having peaks generally corresponding with the outer curved portions 174 and a valley generally corresponding with the inner curved portion 172. In some implementations, the distance (generally parallel to the longitudinal axis 171) between the top of at least one of the peaks and the bottom of the valley can be generally equal to the thickness of a wing 170, is generally equal to or greater than the distance from the outer surface of the pin 162 to the outer radial surface of the wing 170, or is less than or equal to about: 0.25 mm, 0.5 mm, 1 mm, values in between, or otherwise.

[0072] In some embodiments, as illustrated in Figure 3B, a longitudinal width Ww of the wings 170 (e.g., the distance between apexes on opposing sides of the wings 170 measured generally parallel to the longitudinal axis 171 of the body 160) can be greater than a thickness T of the wings 170 (e.g., a distance normal to and between opposing sides of the wings 170). For example, in some embodimenis, the thickness T of the wings 170 is less than or equal to about 90% of the width Ww of the wings 170 and/or greater than or equal to about 10% of the width Ww of the wings 170. in some embodiments, the ihickness T of the wings 170 is less than or equal to about 80% of the width Ww of the wings 170 and/or greater than or equal to about 20% of the width Ww of the wings 170. In some embodiments, the thickness T of the wings is approximately 60%) of the width Ww. Many variations are possible, in some embodiments, the thickness T is substantially constant. in certain variants, the thickness T varies. In some implementations in which the thickness T varies, the aforementioned relationships between the thickness T and the width Ww are determined based on the thickest portion of the wing 170.

[0073] As illustrated in Figures 3B-3C, the wings 170 can have a short width RSI , RS2 measured from and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 171 of the body 162 of the pin 160 and a long width RLl, RL2 measured from and perpendicular to the axis 171. The short widths RSI , R.82 of each wing 170 can be identical to each other. In some embodiments, one of the short widths RS I of a wing 170 varies from another short width RS2 of the same or another wing 170. The short widths RS I , RS2 can be sized to be substantially flush with the body 162. For example, the total short width (e.g., RSI + RS2) of one or more of the wings 170 can be substantially equal to the cross-sectional width DB of the pin body 162 measured in a plane generally parallel to the short width RSI, RS2 of the wing and passing through the axis 171. In some embodiments, the total short width of one or more of the wings 170 is greater than the cross-sectional width DB of the pin body 162 measured generally parallel to the total short width of the wing 170.

[0074] In some embodiments, the long width RL1 of one wing 170 is substantially equal to the long width RL2 of another wing 170. In some embodiments, the long width RLl of one wing 170 is greater than or less than the long width RL2 of another wing 170. The total long width (e.g., RLl + RL2) of the wings 170 can be greater than the cross-section width DB of the pin body 162 measured generally parallel to the total long width of the wings 170. For example, the total long width of the wings 170 can be greater than or equal to about 105% of the cross-section width DB of the pin body 162 measured generally parallel to the long widths of the wings 170 and/or less than or equal to 170% of the cross-section width DB of the pin body 162 measured generally parallel to the long widths of the wings 170. In some embodiments, the total long width of the wings 170 can be approximately 140% of the cross-section width DB of the pin body 162 measured generally parallel to the long widths of the wings 170.

[0075] in various embodiments, it can be beneficial to have wings 170 with relatively small widths (e.g., relative to the pin diameter DB). As discussed in more detail below, the wings 170 can be configured to engage structures on the belt module, which can facilitate, for example, securing the pin 160 in the module 120. In some implementations, such engagement can impart a force (e.g., a torque or bending moment) or stress on the wings 170. In certain implementations, the amount of such force and/or stress is related to the length of the wings. Those embodiments of the pin 160 that have relatively short wings thus may be able to reduce or avoid such force and/or stress. Some implementations of the pin 160 have a configuration in which the sum of the short widths RSI , RS2 is less than or equal to the sum of the long widths RL1 , RL2, which in turn is less or equal to than X% of the pin width DB. This relationship can be described as:

(RSI + RS2) < (RL 1 + RI.2) < (X% of DB)

In some embodiments, X is greater than or equal to about: 101 , 103, 105, 1 10, 1 15, 120, values between the aforementioned values, or otherwise.

[0076] In some embodiments, the second end 166 of the pin 160 includes a tool- engagement feature such as a protrusion or a recess 178. The recess 178 can be shaped to receive a tool (e.g., the end of a screwdriver) configured to rotate the pin 160. For example, the pin 160 can be rotated about the axis 171 of the pin 160 by at least approximately: 45°, 90°, 135°, values in between, or otherwise. In certain implementations, rotation of the pin 160 results in at least one of the outer curved portions 174 of at least one of the wings 170 engaging with (e.g., deflecting or being deflected by ) the securing structure 132. of the belt module 120. In some embodiments, with continued rotation, a protrusion 132 on either of the pin or the inner surface of the module can be seated in a recess 172 on the other of the pin or the inner surface of the module. Such a configuration can generally secure the pin 160 in the belt module 120 and/or inhibit or prevent incidental rotation of the pin 160, In some implementations, entrance of the wings 170 into the cavity 130 of the second belt module 120 can facilitate securing the pin 160 in the belt module 120. For example, the physical interference between the wings 170 and the walls of the cavity 130 can inhibit or prevent the pin 160 from moving along the longitudinal axis 171 with respect to the second belt module 120. In some embodiments, two or more wings 170 can engage with two or more securing structures 132 (e.g., protrusions) in the cavity 130. For example, the recess 172 of each wing 170 can receive a protrusion on opposite sides (e.g., opposite with respect to an axial centerline of the first connector channel 128) of the cavity 130.

[0077] With reference to Figures 4A-4C, exploded views of two belt modules 120 and a pin 160 are shown in an illustrative assembly process. Although only two belt modules 120 and one pin 160 are shown, the assembly process can be repeated (in series or in parallel) as needed to produce a belt of a desired length. As illustrated, in some embodiments, one belt module 120 spans the lateral width of the belt assembly 1 10. In certain embodiments, a plurality of belt modules 120 are assembled to together span the lateral width of the belt assembly. For example, the plurality of belt modules 120 can be arranged in a row with some or all of first channel portions 122 and/or second channel portions 124 of each of the belt modules 120 of that row being collinear. In some variants, the plurality of belt modules 120 can be arranged in a row and the plurality of belt modules 120 are configured to connect with the pin 160. in certain implementations, the plurality of belt modules 120 of adjacent rows are arranged in a "brick-lay" pattern, in which a seam formed by the lateral sides of the belt modules 120 of a row (other than at the outermost lateral sides) is not aligned with the seam formed by the lateral sides of the belt modules 120 of an adjacent row.

[0078] In some embodiments, a method of assembling the conveyor system 100, can include aligning two belt modules 12.0a, 120b adjacent to one another such that the second channel portions 124 of the second body portion 123 of the first belt module 120a are inserted into the gaps 1 12, 1 14 between first channel portions 122 of the first body portion 121 of the second belt module 120b. The first connector channel 128 of the second belt module 120b can be coaxially aligned with the second connector channel 129 of the first belt module 120a. In some v ariants, the inner first channel portion 122 of the second belt module 120b can be inserted into the gap 1 12 between the second channel portions 124 of the first belt module 120a.

[0079] After alignment of the first connector channel 128 of the second belt module 120b with the second connector channel 129 of the first belt module 120a, the pin 160 can be inserted, first end 164 first, through the engagement opening 126 of the second belt module 120b and into the coaxially-aligned connector channel 128 of the second belt modules 120b. Similarly, the pin 160 can be inserted into the connector channel 129 of the first belt module 120a. The pin 160 can be rotated such that the profile of the wings 170 generally align with, and correspond to, the profile of the engagement opening 126 of the second belt module 120b, as illustrated in Figure 4B. For example, in an embodiment in which the engagement opening 126 is generally elliptically shaped, the wings can be generally similarly shaped and can be oriented during at least some of the insertion of the pin 160 such that the major axis of the ellipse of the wings 170 generally aligns with, and corresponds to, the major axis of the ellipse of the opening 126. In certain implementations, the pin 160 can be inserted into the second belt module 120b until the wings 170 come into contact with the abutment 127 of the second belt module 120b.

[0080] A rotating tool (e.g., a screwdriver) can be inserted into the recess 178 of the pin 160. The tool can be used to rotate the pin 160 around the longitudinal axis 171 to secure the pin 160 into place within the belt modules 120, as illustrated in Figure 4C. For example, rotation of the pin 160 can cause at least one of the wings 170 to rotate into contact with a securing structure 132 in the cavity 130 of the second belt module 120b. in a first stage of rotation, the outer curved portion 174 of at least one of the wings 170 can be engaged with the securing structure 132 as the pin 160 is rotated. Continued rotation of the pin 160 past this first stage of rotation into a second stage (e.g., rotation of at least approximately 90° about the longitudinal axis 171 of the pin 160 from the initial position wherein the axial cross-section of the second end 166 of the pin 160 was aligned with the axial cross-section of the engagement opening 126 of the second belt module 160) can cause the securing structure 132 to engage with the inner curved portion 172 of at least one of the wings 170.

[0081] In some variants, rotation of the pin 160 such that the securing structure 132 is engaged with the inner curved portion 172 results in the pin 160 being removably secured in the belt module 120. For example, in some embodiments, when the pin 160 has been rotated such that the securing structure 132 is engaged with the inner curved portion 172, the wings 170 are received in the cavity 130 and the profiles of the wings 170 and the opening 126 no longer are in correspondence. In certain variants, when the wings 170 and the opening 126 no longer are in correspondence, a dimensional interference between the wings 170 and the walls of the cavity 130 inhibits or prevents the pin 160 from being removed from the belt module 120, The pin 160 can be generally locked in the belt module 120 and inhibited from being removed through the opening 126.

[0082] In some embodiments, engagement of the securing structure 132 with the inner curved portion 172 generally inhibits counter-rotation of the pin 160. In certain embodiments, when the pin 160 is rotated, the outer curved portion 174 of at least one of the wings 170 can engage with (e.g., deflect or be deflected by) the securing structure 132, and continued rotation of the pin 160 can engage the securing structure 132 with the inner curved portion 172 of at least one of the wings 170. In certain implementations, when the securing structure 132 is engaged with the inner curved portion 172, the securing structure 132 is received in the valley (that corresponds with the inner curved portion 172) and the peaks (that correspond to the outer curved portions 174) provide an interference that inhibits counter-rotation of the pin 160. in some embodiments, the securing structure 132 and at least one of the wings 170 function together as a detent, thereby inhibiting or preventing unintentional rotation of the pin 160. In some variants, other securing mechanisms (e.g., ratchets, set screws) can be used to secure the pins 160 to the belt modules 120.

[0083] The pins 160 can be configured to fit entirely within the belt modules 120 upon installation of the pins 160 into the belt modules 120. For example, the wings 170 can be located entirely within the cavities 130 of the belt modules 120 (e.g., no portions of the wings 170 extend radially, transversely, or longitudinally past the edges of the belt modules 120). In certain embodiments, an end of the pins 160 is spaced from, or recessed with respect to, the modules radially, transversely, and/or longitudinally. In some embodiments, the installed pins 160 do not extend longitudinally (e.g., with respect to the longitudinal axis 171 of the pins 160) past the outer edges of the belt modules 120. In some such embodiments, the potential for damage to the pins 160 and/or to the wings 170 after installation can be minimized due to limited access to the pins 160 from outside the belt modules 120. Accidental or unintentional rotation of the wings 170 relative to the cavities 130 of the belt modules 120 can be reduced or minimized due to the limited access to the wings 170 from outside the belt modules 120 after assembly of the belt assembly 1 10. For example, locating the wings 170 radially within the cavities 130 and longitudinally within the width W of the belt modules 120 upon installation of the pin 160 into the modules 120 can inhibit access to the recess 178 of the pin 160 without the use of specific tools. In some such configurations, the chance of accidently rotating the pin 160 via manipulation of the wings 170 and/or recess 178 can be minimized.

[0084] Many variations of the ratio between the length L of the pins 160 and the width W of the belt modules 12.0 are contemplated. Such a ratio can vary widely. For example, the width W of the belt modules 120 can be greater than or equal to approximately 105% of the length L of the pins 160 and/or less than or equal to approximately 125% of the length L of the pins 160. In some embodiments, the width W of the heft modules 120 can be greater than or equal to approximately 105% of the length L of the pins 160 and/or less than or equal to approximately 150% of the length L of the pins 160. in some such embodiments, as described above, the pin 160 can be contained completely within a single bell module 120. According to some variants, a pin 160 having a fixed length L can be used with different belt modules 120 having varying widths W, such as greater than or equal to about: 0.75 inch, 1.00 inch, 1.25 inch, 1 .50 inch, 1.75 inch, 2.00 inches, values between the aforementioned values, and otherwise. For example, first and second instances of the module 120 can have different overall widths W, yet have the same width between the abutment 127 of the cavity 130 and a width-bisecting plane of the belt modules 120 (e.g., a mid-point generally parallel to the width W of the belt modules 120). In some such embodiments, the thicknesses (e.g., the widths parallel to the overall width W) of the outer-most first channel portions 122 can vary between belt modules 120.

[0085] In some embodiments, the length L of the pins 160 can be more than two times (e.g., 3 times, 5 times, 10 times, or some value greater than or between) the width W of the belt modules 120, In some such embodiments, a single pin 160 can span more than one belt module 120. For example, two or more belt modules 120 can be interlocked in a direction generally to the longitudinal axis 171 of the pin 160 and can be connected to each other via a single pin 160. In. some such embodiments, belt assemblies 1 10 can be constructed having total belt widths greater than the width of one or more of the belt modules 120 used to construct the belt, assemblies 1 10. in some embodiments, the belt modules 120 can be fit. together in a "brick pattern" such that a connection between two belt modules 120 in a first row (e.g., belt, modules 120 connected together in a direction, substantially parallel to the longitudinal axes of the pins 160) can. be located along the width of the belt assembly 1 10 within the width W of a belt module 120 in an adjacent, second row. In some embodiments, a connection between two belt, modules 120 in the second row can be located along the width of the belt assembly 1 10 within the width W of a belt module 120 in the first row.

[0086] In some embodiments, the belt l iO includes features to facilitate and/or verify assembly. For example, the window 134 can allow the manufacturer of the belt assembly l iO to visually verify proper installation of the pin 160 into the belt modules 120. The symmetry of the wings 170, as described above, can facilitate the securing of the pins 160 into the belt modules 120 by rotating the pins 160 in either direction (e.g., clockwise and/or counterclockwise) about the longitudinal axis of the pins 160. in some embodiments, an audible indicator (e.g., a "snap" or "click") can be heard when an outer curved portion 174 of the wing 170 passes by the securing structure 132. The audible indicator can help inhibit or prevent incomplete and/or incorrect installation of the pin 160 into the belt modules 120.

[0087] In some configurations, incidental rotation (e.g., rotation not caused by the tool) of the pin 160 can be inhibited. For example, when the securing structure 132 is engaged with the inner curved portion 172, unintended rotation of the pin 160 can be inhibited by contact between the securing structure 132 and the adjacent outer curved portions 174 of at least one of the wings 170. Entrance of the wings 170 into the cavity 130 of the second belt module 120 can inhibit the pin 160 from moving along the longitudinal axis 171 with respect to the second belt module 120b. For example, the wings 170, upon rotation into the cavity 130, can be inhibited from moving along the longitudinal axis 171 due to interference between the wings 170 and the walls of the cavity 130.

[0088] Further belt modules 120 can be connected to the first and/or second belt modules 12.0 in the same or a similar manner as that described above. The length of the belt assembly 1 10 can be modified and customized by adding or removing belt modules 120 from the belt assembly 1 10. The ends (e.g., the two endmost belt modules 120) of a belt assembly 1 10 can be joined together in the same or a similar manner as that described above to form a looped belt assembly 110.

[0089] In some embodiments, the pins 160 can facilitate assembly of the belt assembly 1 10 (e.g., either manually or via an automated process). For example, the belt modules 120 and the pins 160 can be configured such that the wings 170 are generally oriented the same as the engagement openings 126 when the belt modules 120 and pins 160 are laid on a flat surface. In certain variants, the first and second body portions 121, 123 have a rounded external surface (see Figures 2E and 2F), which can discourage the belt modules 120 from coming to rest on end (e.g., with one connector channel 128, 129 positioned above another connector channel 128, 129). The thicknesses of the walls of the first and second connector channels 128, 129 can be the same or similar to each other. In some embodiments, when placed on a fiat surface, the belt modules 120 can tend to orient themselves without external interference into a position in which the axial centerlines of the first and second connector channels 128, 129 lie on generally the same horizontal plane. [0090] Certain variants of the pins 160 can be configured to lie on a flat surface such that the wings 170 extend generally parallel to the flat surface. For example, as illustrated in Figure 3D, the wings 170 can have rounded surfaces 179 on the outer ends (e.g., the leftmost and rightmost ends of Figure 3D) of the wings 170. The rounded shape of these surfaces 179 can discourage the pins 160 from coming to rest on the rounded surfaces 179 when the pin 160 is set on a generally flat surface. The wings 170 can include flat surfaces 177 on the sides of the wings 170 (e.g., the topmost and bottommost portions of the wings 170 in Figure 3D). In some embodiments, the ratio between the span distance D of the wings 170 and tire orthogonal distance between the flat surfaces 177 can be greater than or equal to about 1 : 10 and/or less than or equal to about 3:2, In some embodiments, the flat surfaces 177 can be configured to be generally flush with the body 162 of the pin 160, as illustrated in Figure 3B. In some configurations, insertion of the pins 160 into the belt modules 120 can incur minimal or reduced friction or drag between the wings 170 and any flat surface along which the wings 170 are moved as the pins 160 are inserted into the belt modules 120.

[0091] As mentioned above, both the belt modules 120 and the pins 160 can be disposed to lie on a flat surface such that the wings 170 are generally oriented the same as the engagement openings 126 of the belt modules 12.0, Thus, the belt modules 120 and/or the pins 160 can automatically (e.g., by force of gravity alone and without external intervention) orient themselves during manufacturing. Automatic orientation of the modules 120 and pins 160 can facilitate assembly of the belt by reducing or eliminating the need to manipulate (e.g., pick and place) the components into a desired orientation in a mechanized assembly operation. Accordingly, the assembly can be accomplished with fewer steps, more quickly, and/or more cost effectively,

[0092] For example, a method of assembling a belt assembly 1 10 can include supplying or placing a plurality of pins 160 into a distribution device (e.g., a hopper) such that the first ends 164 of the pins 160 line up with the first ends 164 of the other pins 160. A pin 160 can be dispensed from the hopper onto a generally flat surface. In some embodiments, the pin 160 can automatically (e.g., without external assistance) orient itself such that one of the flat surfaces 177 engages the flat surface. In some embodiments, the flat surface is slanted. In certain implementations, the pin 160 can slide along the slanted surface (e.g., with one of the flat surfaces 177 in contact with the slanted surface). In certain variants, the pin 160 slides into contact with a second surface that inhibits further sliding of the pin 160. A belt module 120 can be disposed adjacent the dispensed pin 160 and the pin 160 and/or belt 120 can be positioned such that the longitudinal axis 177 of the pin 160 is generally coaxial with one of the connector channels 128, 129 of the belt module 120. The pin 160 can be encouraged (e.g., pushed by a hydraulic ram) into a connector channel 128, 129 of the belt module 120 and rotated such that at least one of the wings 170 engage with the locking feature (e.g., the securing structure 132) of the belt module 120. This process described above can be repeated and/or carried out in parallel with additional pins 160 and/or additional belt modules 120, thereby constructing a belt with a plurality of belt modules 120 connected by pins 160.

[0093] Although the conveyor system has been disclosed in the context of certain preferred embodiments and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present disclosure extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses of the conveyor system and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. In addition, while a number of variations of the conveyor system have been shown and described in detail, other modifications, which are within the scope of this disclosure, will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art based upon this disclosure. For example, the overall dimensions of the disclosed components (e.g., the pins 160 and belt modules 120) can be greater than or less than those disclosed above. In some such configurations, the overall dimensions of the components can be 3 times, 5 times, 10 times, or otherwise greater than or less than the dimensions disclosed aboye.

[0094] It is also contemplated that various combinations or sub -combinations of the specific features and aspects of the embodiments may be made and still fall within the scope of the disclosure. Components, elements, features, acts, or steps can be arranged or performed differently than described and components, elements, features, acts, or steps can be combined, merged, added, or left out in various embodiments. Indeed, all possible combinations and subcombinations of elements and components described herein are intended to be included in this disclosure. No single feature or group of features is necessary or indispensable.

[0095] Certain features that are described in this disclosure in the context of separate implementations also can be implemented in combination in a single implementation. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single implementation also can be implemented in multiple implementations separately or in any suitable subcombination. Moreover, although features may be described above as acting in certain combinations, one or more features from a claimed combination can in some cases be excised from the combination, and the combination may be claimed as a subcombination or variation of a subcombination.

[0096] Some embodiments have been described in connection with the accompanying drawings. However, it should be understood that the figures are not drawn to scale. Distances, angles, etc. are merely illustrative and do not necessarily bear an exact relationship to actual dimensions and layout of the devices illustrated. Components can be added, removed, and/or rearranged. Further, the disclosure herein of any particular feature, aspect, method, property, characteristic, quality, attribute, element, or the like in connection with various embodiments can be used in all other embodiments set forth herein. Any methods described herein may be practiced using any device suitable for performing the recited steps.

[0097] Moreover, while operations may be depicted in the drawings or described in the specification in a particular order, it is to be recognized that such operations need not be performed in the particular order shown or in sequential order, or that all operations be performed, to achieve desirable results. Other operations that are not depicted or described can be incorporated in the example methods and processes. For example, one or more additional operations can be performed before, after, simultaneously, or between any of the described operations. Additionally, the operations may be rearranged or reordered in other implementations. Also, the separation of various system components in the implementations described above should not be understood as requiring such separation in all implementations, and it should be understood that the described components and systems can generally be integrated together in a single product or packaged into multiple products. Additionally, other implementations are within the scope of this disclosure.

[0098] Language of degree, such as the terms "approximately," "about," "generally," and "substantially," as used herein would be understood by those of skill in the art to mean thai under normal conditions the recited stmcture or quality is identically or very closely satisfied (e.g., still performs a desired function and/or achieves a desired result). In various embodiments, the terms "approximately", "about", "generally", and "substantially" may refer to a value, amount, or characteristic that is within less than 10% of, within less than 5% of, within less than 1% of, within less than 0.1% of, and within less than 0.01 % of the stated value, amount, or characteristic. As another example, in certain embodiments the terms "generally parallel" and "substantially parallel" refer to a value, amount, or characteristic that departs from exactly parallel by less than or equal to: 15°, i0°, 5°, 3°, 1°, 0.1°, or otherwise.

[0099] Conditional language used herein, such as, among others, "can," "could," "might," "may," "e.g.," and the like, unless specifically stated otherwise or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments include, while other embodiments do not include, certain features, elements and/or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements and/or steps are in any way required for one or more embodiments or that one or more embodiments necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without author input or prompting, whether these features, elements and/or steps are included or are to be performed in any particular embodiment. The terms "comprising," "including," "having," and the like are synonymous and are used inclusively, in an open-ended fashion, and do not exclude additional elements, features, acts, operations, and so forth. Also, the term "or" is used in its inclusive sense (and not in its exclusive sense) so that when used, for example, to connect a list of elements, tire term "or" means one, some, or all of the elements in the list.

[0100] Conjunctive language such as the phrase "at least one of X, Y, and Z," unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood with the context as used in general to convey that an item, term, etc. may be either X, Y, or Z, Thus, such conjunctive language is not generally intended to imply that certain embodiments require the presence of at least one of X, at least one of Y, and at least one of Z.

[0101] Furthermore, while illustrative embodiments have been described herein, persons of skill in the art would recognize that any and all embodiments having equivalent elements, modifications, omissions, combinations, adaptations and/or alterations are also within the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

THE FOLLOWING IS CLAIMED:

1. A conveyor system comprising:

a first belt module having a plurality of first module channel portions, at least one of the first module channel portions including a first channel aperture and an engaging portion having a securing structure, each first module channel portion connected to at least one other first module channel portion via a structural element;

a second belt module having a plurality of second module channel portions, at least one of the second module channel portions including a second channel aperture, each second module channel portion connected to at least one other second module channel portion via a structural element; and

at least one pin configured to connect the first belt module and the second belt module by engaging through the first channel aperture and the second channel aperture, the at least one pin comprising an insertion end, a securement end, and an elongate body portion, wherein:

the elongate body portion has a longitudinal axis and a cross- sectional shape substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis;

the insertion end is configured to be inserted through the first channel aperture and the second channel aperture; and

the securement end is configured to be rotatably received in the engaging portion of the at least one first module channel portion, the securement end comprising a radially outwardly extending flange, the flange comprising a curved securing portion and a curved receiving portion;

wherein, when the securement end is received in the engaging portion and the pin is rotated relative to the engaging portion:

the securing structure of the engaging portion protrudes into the curved receiving portion of the flange of the pin; and

the securing portion inhibits further rotation of the pin relative to the engaging portion,

2. The conveyor system of Claim 1 , wherein the flange extends radially outward from the securement end a distance Jess than or equal to about one fifth of a cross-sectional width of the elongate body portion.

3. The conveyor system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one first module channel portion comprises an engagement opening shaped to receive the flange.

4. The conveyor system of Claim 3, wherein rotation of the flange within the engaging portion such that the flange is roiationally misaligned with the engagement opening inhibits withdrawal of the flange from the cavity in a direction generally parallel to a first aperture axis of the first channel aperture.

5. The conveyor system of Claim 3, wherein the engagement opening has a cross-section with a major axis and a minor axis, and wherein the engaging portion extends further in a radially-outward direction from the first aperture axis than the engagement opening in at least the radial directions substantially parallel to the minor axis of the cross-section of the engagement opening.

6. The conveyor system of Claim 3, wherein the flange is sized and shaped such that the flange can pass through the engagement opening in a first rotational orientation and cannot pass through the engagement opening in a second rotational orientation.

7. ^'The conveyor system of Claim 3, wherein the engagement opening lias a continuous periphery.

8. The conveyor system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the curved securing portion and the curved receiving portion are curved in substantially opposite directions.

9. The conveyor system of any of the preceding claims, further comprising a conveyor-moving sprocket configured to engage with a portion of the first belt module and with a portion of the second belt module.

10. The conveyor system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the pin is rotated relative to the engaging portion by at least about 90 degrees.

11. The conveyor system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the securing structure comprises a longitudinally extending tooth.

12. The conveyor system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the securing structure is received in an apex of the curve of the receiving portion.

13. The conveyor system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the securing structure is positioned at least partially within the engaging portion.

14. The conveyor system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the engaging portion is partially defined by an abutment, the abutment configured to inhibit the flange from passing through the first channel aperture.

15. The conveyor system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one first module channel portion comprises a window in an outer periphery of the engaging portion, the window configured to facilitate visual confirmation of engagement between the securing structure and the curved receiving portion.

16. The conveyor system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the cross- sectional shape of the elongate body portion is circ ular.

17. The conveyor system of any of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the first channel aperture and the second channel aperture has a circular cross-section.

18. The conveyor system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the securement end of the pin includes a recess, the recess configured to receive a tool, the tool configured to rotate the pin.

19. The conveyor system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the pin is configured to remain substantially unbent relative to the longitudinal axis as the insertion end is inserted through the first channel aperture and through the second channel aperture.

20. The conveyor system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the flange and the elongate body portion of the pin form a monolithic part.

21. The conveyor system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the elongate body portion has a substantially constant cross-sectional shape between the insertion end of the pin and the securement end of tire pin.

22. A conveyor system comprising:

a first belt module having a plurality of first leg portions, at least one of the first leg portions including a first channel aperture and a securing cavity, the securing cavity having a plurality of protrusions and partially bounded by opposing walls, each first leg portion connected to at least one other first leg portion via a structural element;

a second belt module having a plurality of second leg portions, at least one of the second leg portions defining a second channel aperture, each second leg portion connected to at least one other second leg portion via a structural element; and

at least one pin configured to be inserted at least partially through the first channel aperture and the second channel aperture, the at least one pin having: a body having an insertion end, a seeurement end, and a longitudinal axis, the insertion end configured to be inserted through the first channel aperture and the second channel aperture;

a first flange at the seeurement end of the body, the first flange extending radially outward from the longitudinal axis; and a second flange at the seeurement end of the body, the second flange extending radially outward from the longitudinal axis in a direction generally opposite from the first flange;

wherein each of the first and second flanges include a curved portion configured to rotatabiv reieasably engage with one of the protmsions of the securing cavity; and

wherein, when each of the curved portions are engaged with the respective protrusion:

the engagement between the curved portions and the protrusions inhibits rotation of the at least one pin about the longitudinal axis with respect to the first leg portion comprising the protrusion; and the opposing walls of the securing cavity provide an interference with the first flange and the second flange to inhibit translation of the pin generally parallel to the longitudinal axis with respect to the at least one first belt module.

23. The system of Claim 22, wherein the first flange and second flange have substantially the same size and shape.

24. The system of Claim 2.2 or Claim 23, wherein the pin is formed as a monolithic part.

25. ^'The system of any of Claims 22.-24, wherein the pin is injection molded.

26. The system of any of Claims 2.2-25, wherein the first belt module is injection molded.

27. The system of any of Claims 22-2.6, wherein the second belt module is injection molded.

28. The system of any of Claims 22-2.7, wherein the seeurement end of the body includes a recess configured to receive a tool,

29. The system of any of Claims 2.2-28, wherein at least one of the opposing walls of the securing cavity forms an abutment configured to inhibit the seeurement end of the body from passing through the securing cavity.

30. The system of any of Claims 22-29, the at least one first leg portion includes an engagement opening sized and shaped to substantially match an outer periphery of the first and second flanges.

31. A conveyor system comprising:

a first belt module having a plurality of first module channel portions, at least one of the first module channel portions including a first channel aperture, an engagement opening, and an engaging portion having an engagement channel, wherein the engagement channel has a first portion with a first width and a second portion with a second width, the first width being less than the second width, and wherein each first module channel portion is connected to at least one other first module channel portion via a structural element;

the elongate body portion has a longitudinal axis;

the securement end is configured to be received in the engaging portion in a first rotational position;

wherein the securement end comprises a flexible flange having a width along the longitudinal axis that is greater than the first width of the engagement channel, the flexible flange configured to flex in a direction generally parallel to the longitudinal axis;

wherein, when the securement end is positioned in the engaging portion and the pin is rotated relative to the engaging portion about the longitudinal axis to a first position, the flexible flange engages the first portion of the engagement channel, thereby being flexed substantially along the longitudinal axis: and wherein, when the securemeni end is positioned in the engaging portion and the pin is rotated relative to the engaging portion about the longitudinal axis to a second positioned beyond the first position:

the flexible flange is disengaged from the first portion of the engagement channel, thereby allowing the flange to substantially return to its unfiexed configuration; and

rotation of the pin with respect to the engagement channel and translation of the pin with respect to the engagement channel in a direction generally parallel to the longitudinal axis is inhibited.

32. The conveyor system of Claim 31, wherein the first width and the second width are bounded between opposing walls of the engagement channel.