WO2023158296A1

WO2023158296A1 - Rapid release belt guidance mechanism

Info

Publication number: WO2023158296A1
Application number: PCT/MY2022/050013
Authority: WO
Inventors: Stephen Charles King
Original assignee: Kairos Global Sdn. Bhd.
Priority date: 2022-02-15
Filing date: 2022-02-23
Publication date: 2023-08-24

Abstract

The present invention relates to a rapid release mechanism for a c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100), comprising two pairs of opposing roller assembly (122), wherein each roller assembly (122) comprises a bearing (105) mounted on a bearing holder plate (104) for engaging a conveyor belt (112); characterized by a pair of slot indents (106) and a pair of engagement outdents (107) to set the roller assembly (122) in position; the roller assembly (122) has a pair of actuating protrusions (108) for engaging the roller assembly (122) to the pillar weldment (100) via a pair of lock indents (110) or disengagement via a pair of release indents (109). The invention also relates to a method of using the rapid release mechanism, comprising steps to inspect each component of the pillar weldment (100), wherein further step comprises disengaging said component, replacing broken components, and reassembling the pillar weldment (100).

Description

RAPID RELEASE BELT GUIDANCE MECHANISM

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a curved belt conveyor, more particularly a rapid release mechanism designed to reduce maintenance effort and time when replacing components of a structural pillar weldment installed to the curved belt conveyor.

BACKGROUND

A curved powered belt conveyor is a conveying system designed to transport materials along a curved conveyor belt in a continuous operation. Curved conveying systems have been in the commercial market for many years and are integral to conveyor systems such as airport baggage handling, distribution, freight handling, and parcel handling.

U.S. Pat. No. 8,186,504 B2 disclosed a curved belt conveyor wherein a conveyor belt assembly has a one-piece frame comprising a first holder, a second holder, a third holder, and a fourth holder. A roller coupled to each respective holder engages the conveyor belt, wherein each roller rotates on its own axis relative to its respective position. There is a distance between the first and second rollers to guide a conveyor belt there between.

U.S. Pat. No. 9,120,628 B2 disclosed a curved belt conveyor having a plurality of rollers to guide an application element. The plurality of rollers is arranged on a retaining element connected to a side wall. Each retaining element has at least one roller holder holding a roller, wherein the roller holder is pivoted such that the roller contacts the application element. There are two fastening joints wherein the roller holder moves from a first fastening joint to a second fastening joint to disengage the roller from the application element.

U.S. Pat. No. 7,232,030 B2 disclosed a conveyor belt with a spring-loaded bolt activated by a lever to connect an L-shaped upper bracket holding a first roller to an L-shaped lower bracket holding a second roller. The lever uses the force stored by the spring-loaded bolt to move the L-shaped upper bracket upwards and backwards. When both L-shaped brackets are connected, the first roller from the upper bracket and the second roller from the lower bracket are positioned such that both rollers are engaging the conveyor belt.

U.S. Pat. No. 10,392,191 B l disclosed a rapid release mechanism in which the holder is retained in its engaged position via detent elements in both the bearing holder retaining arm and C-shaped channel. Once released from this position, the holder is then retained in the C-shaped channel in the disengaged position via a screw or pin engaged into the holder. This screw or pin needs to be removed to effectively remove the holder from the pillar. There are some drawbacks and limitations on the conveyors described in the prior art as the conveyors require significant time and dismantling for effective maintenance work to be done. Therefore, there is a need to provide an improved rapid release mechanism that could overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and allow simple yet expedient maintenance work.

SUMMARY

It is an objective of the present invention is to provide a rapid release mechanism capable of removing a roller assembly without disassembling an entire structural pillar weldment from a curved powered belt conveyor.

It is another objective of the present invention for the roller assembly to be removed entirely and inspected without affecting the entire operation of the curved powered belt conveyor.

It is yet another objective of the present invention for one from a plurality of structural pillar weldment to be removed entirely and inspected without affecting the entire operation of the curved powered belt conveyor.

The present invention relates to a rapid release mechanism for a c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment, comprising two pairs of opposing roller assembly, wherein each roller assembly comprises a bearing mounted on a bearing holder plate for engaging a conveyor belt; characterized by a pair of slot indents and a pair of engagement outdents to set the roller assembly in position; the roller assembly has a pair of actuating protrusions for engaging the roller assembly to the c-shaped, closed- ended pillar weldment via a pair of lock indents or disengagement via a pair of release indents.

The present invention also relates to a method of using the rapid release mechanism for maintaining a c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment, comprising steps to inspect each component of the c- shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment, wherein further step comprises disengaging said component, replacing broken components, and reassembling the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present invention. The drawings illustrate the embodiment of the invention and together with the detailed description explains the fundamentals of the embodiment.

Fig. 1 depicts a schematic drawing of a curved belt conveyor.

Fig. 2a depicts an exploded isometric drawing of a roller assembly.

Fig. 2b depicts another exploded isometric drawing of the roller assembly. Fig. 3 depicts an isometric drawing of a c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment.

Fig. 4 depicts a perspective drawing of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment indicating the position of a slot indent, a lock indent, and a release indent.

Fig. 5 depicts a side view drawing of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment engaging a conveyor belt with the plurality of roller assemblies retained to the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment via a bearing plate engaging into a pair of slot indent at each side of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment.

Fig. 6 depicts an isometric drawing of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment with a plurality of roller assembly retained to the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment via a bearing plate engaging into the pair of slot indents at each side of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment.

Fig. 7 depicts a schematic drawing of the upper section of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment with a pair of roller assembly retained to the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment via a lock indent to hold the assembly in a locked position.

Fig. 8 depicts a schematic drawing of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment with the plurality of rollers assembly disengaged for allowing the conveyor belt to be released from the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment.

Fig. 9 depicts an isometric drawing of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment with the plurality of rollers assembly disengaged for allowing the conveyor belt to be released from the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment.

Fig. 10 depicts a schematic drawing of the upper section of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment with a pair of roller assembly retained to the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment via a pair of release indent to hold the roller assembly in an unlocked position.

The headings provided herein are for convenience only and do not necessarily affect the scope of the embodiments. Further, the drawings have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be expanded or reduced to help improve the understanding of the embodiments. Moreover, while the disclosed technology is amenable to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments have been shown by way of example in the drawings and are described in detail below. The intention, however, is not to unnecessarily limit the embodiments described. On the contrary, the embodiments are intended to cover all suitable modifications, combinations, equivalents, and/or alternatives of the technology falling within the scope of this disclosure. Detailed description of preferred embodiments

Various examples of the mechanisms, systems, and methods introduced above will now be described in further detail. The following description provides specific details for a thorough understanding and enabling description of these examples. One skilled in the relevant art will understand, however, that the techniques and technology discussed herein may be practiced without many of these details. Likewise, one skilled in the relevant art will also understand that the technology can include many other features not described in detail herein. Additionally, some well- known structures or functions may not be shown or described in detail below to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the relevant description.

This invention relates to a rapid release mechanism for a c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) assembled to a curved powered belt conveyor (114), comprising: two pairs of opposing roller assembly (122), such that the first pair of opposing roller assembly (122) is positioned on the upper region of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) and the second pair of opposing roller assembly (122) is positioned on the lower region of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100), wherein each roller assembly (122) comprises: a bearing holder plate (104); and a bearing (105) mounted on the bearing holder plate (104) for engaging a plurality of conveyor belt bead (113) sewn to a conveyor belt (112), wherein the diameter of the bearing (105) is larger than the width of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) inner profile; characterized by a pair of opposed slot indents (106) located at both left and right side of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) to enable the roller assembly (122) to slide vertically into position on the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100); a pair of opposed engagement outdents (107) located at one end of the bearing holder plate (104) on said roller assembly (122) for engagement with left and right side the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) to position the roller assembly (122) horizontally; a pair of opposed lock indents (110) located at both left and right side of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) for engagement with each corresponding roller assembly (122) to position said corresponding roller assembly (122) in an engaged position; a pair of opposed release indents (109) located at both left and right side of the c- shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) to retain the roller assembly (122) movement within the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) when the roller assembly (122) is disengaged from the pair of slot indents (106); and a pair of opposing actuating protrusions (108) moulded at the one end of the bearing holder plate (104) for engagement on the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100), wherein the pair of actuating protrusions (108) is manipulated by hand to engage the roller assembly (122) from either the corresponding pair of lock indents (110) or the corresponding pair of release indents (109).

In one embodiment of the pair of opposing actuating protrusions (108), the pair of actuating protrusions (108) is manipulated by hand to disengage the roller assembly (122) from either the corresponding pair of lock indents (110) or the corresponding pair of release indents (109).

In one embodiment of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100), the roller assembly (122) is fabricated from one or a combination of materials comprising of: plastic; nylon; wood; steel; and fibreglass.

In another embodiment of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100), each roller assembly (122) has a shape (123) corresponding to the shape of each corresponding pair of slot indents (106) for facilitating engagement to the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100).

In one embodiment of the bearing holder plate (104), each actuating protrusions (108) is constructed on opposing sides of the bearing holder plate (104) from one of a combination comprising of: welding; braising; adhering; screwing; and moulding. In one embodiment of the bearing holder plate (104), the pair of engagement outdents (107) is constructed on opposing sides of the bearing holder plate (104) from one of a combination comprising of: welding; braising; adhering; screwing; and moulding.

In one embodiment of the bearing holder plate (104), the bearing holder plate (104) contorts when the pair of actuating protrusions (108) is manipulated over both the pair of lock indents (110) and pair of release indents (109) to release the roller assembly (122) from the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100).

In one embodiment of the roller assembly (122), the pair of engagement outdents (107) can be located internally in relation to the left and right side wall of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100).

In another embodiment of the roller assembly (122), the pair of engagement outdents (107) can be located externally in relation to the left and right side wall of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100).

In one embodiment of the roller assembly (122), the pair of actuating protrusions (108) can be moulded to the bearing holder plate (104) such that the pair of actuating protrusions (108) is located outside the boundary the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100).

In another embodiment of the roller assembly (122), wherein the pair of actuating protrusions (108) can be moulded to the bearing holder plate (104) such that the pair of actuating protrusions (108) is located within both left and right side wall of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100).

In one embodiment of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100), the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) has a recess (124) between each pair of opposing roller assembly (122) to allow the conveyor belt (112) and the plurality of conveyor belt beads (113) access to move between the c- shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100).

In one embodiment of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100), the pair of slot indents (106) can be a straight slot or curved slot. In one embodiment of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100), an unobstructed open space (119) is between adjacent c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) assembled to the curved powered belt conveyor (114) to provide access to the roller assembly (122) in the corresponding c- shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) for maintenance.

In another embodiment of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100), the unobstructed open space (119) between adjacent c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) provides access to the roller assembly (122) in the corresponding c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) for repair works.

In another embodiment of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100), the c-shaped, closed- ended pillar weldment (100) does not contain a pivot to fasten the roller assembly (122) in position.

In yet another embodiment of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100), the c-shaped, closed- ended pillar weldment (100) does not contain protrusions to fasten the roller assembly (122) in position.

In yet another embodiment of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100), the bearing holder plate (104) does not contain flexible arms to locate the bearing holder plate (104) to the sides of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100).

This invention also relates to a method of using the rapid release mechanism for maintaining a c- shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) assembled to a curved powered belt conveyor (114), comprising: inspecting the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100); inspecting a roller assembly (122); inspecting a bearing holder plate (104) assembled to the roller assembly (122); and inspecting the bearing (105) assembled to the roller assembly (122).

In one embodiment for maintaining the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100), further step comprises: pushing the actuating protrusions (108) forward along a pair of slot indents (106); manipulating a pair of actuating protrusions (108) moulded on a bearing holder plate (104) over a pair of lock indents (110) to disengage the roller assembly (122) coupled to the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100); and pushing the pair of actuating protrusion (108) such that the bearing holder plate (104) engages a pair of release indents (109), wherein the bearing (105) mounted on the bearing holder plate (104) no longer contacts a plurality of conveyor belt bead (113) sewn to a conveyor belt (112).

In the same embodiment for maintaining the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100), further step comprises: replacing the conveyor belt (112); and renewing the conveyor belt (112).

In the same embodiment for maintaining the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100), further step comprises: manipulating the pair of actuating protrusions (108) on the bearing holder plate (104) over the pair of release indents (109); pushing the roller assembly (122) vertically via the actuating protrusions (108) until the bearing holder plate (104) no longer engages a pair of slot indents (106) from the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100); and disengaging the roller assembly (122) coupled to the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100).

In the same embodiment for maintaining the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100), further step comprises: positioning a pair of engagement outdent (107) and the pair of actuating protrusions (108) on the bearing holder plate (104) to align the roller assembly (122) between the left and right side wall of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100); manipulating the bearing holder plate (104) into the slot indents (106); engaging the bearing holder plate (104) to the pair of release indents (109); pulling the roller assembly (122) vertically towards the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) via the actuating protrusions (108) along the slot indent (106); engaging the bearing holder plate (104) with the corresponding pair of slot indents

(106); pulling the roller assembly (122) vertically via the actuating protrusions (108) towards the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100); manipulating the bearing holder plate (104) into the slot indents (106); and engaging the pair of actuating protrusions (108) to the corresponding pair of lock indents (110), wherein the bearing (105) mounted on the bearing holder plate (104) recontacts the plurality of conveyor belt bead (113) sewn to the conveyor belt (112).

In one embodiment for maintaining the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100), the maintenance on the bearing (105) is one or a combination of task comprising: inspecting the bearing (105) assembled to the roller assembly (122) for maintenance; removal of the bearing (105); and replacing the bearing (105) with a new bearing (105).

In another embodiment for maintaining the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100), further steps comprising: disconnecting the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) from a frame (115) of the curved powered belt conveyor (114); disconnecting the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) from a ring plate (118) of the curved powered belt conveyor (114); conducting maintenance work on the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100); and reconnecting the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) to the frame (115) and the ring plate (118).

The following description describes the invention in detail with reference to non-limiting embodiments.

Conventional curved belt conveyor

Fig. 1 illustrates how a conventional curved powered belt conveyor (114) operates with a plurality of c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) installed along the outer profile of the curved powered belt conveyor (114). A conveyor belt (112) revolves around the curved powered belt conveyor (114) via a drive pulley (116) and a tail pulley (117). The drive pulley (116) and the tail pulley (117) are each located at opposing end of a frame (115), wherein the frame (115) is located on both sides of the curved powered belt conveyor (114). In this example, the drive pulley (116) is operatively coupled via a gearbox to a drive motor (120) with associated drivers and controllers. It is important that the conveyor belt (112) runs in an intended geometry to ensure minimum friction and abrasion when revolving around the curved powered belt conveyor (114). This step is achieved with the combination of a plurality of conveyor belt bead (113) sewn to the outer boundary of the conveyor belt (112) for engaging a plurality of bearings (105) found on each corresponding c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100). The plurality of bearings (105) is positioned such that the conveyor belt (112) is guided along a pathway that mimics the intended geometry. The plurality of conveyor belt bead (113) is a polymer-based bead, wherein the bead is made from polymer such as polyurethane or similar materials.

Each c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) is installed to the curved powered belt conveyor (114) by connecting a base plate (102) welded to the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) to the frame (115) as well as connecting a top plate (103) welded to the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) to a ring plate (118) that is located along the outer profile of the curved powered belt conveyor (114). The structural connection between the plurality of c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100), the frame (115), and the ring plate (118) provides structural integrity sufficient to replace the need for a sidewall along the curved powered belt conveyor (114).

The ring plate (118) has a plurality of connecting points constructed to dictate the arrangement of each c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) such that adjacent pairs of the c-shaped, closed- ended pillar weldment (100) have an unobstructed open space (119) between them. Subsequently, the unobstructed open space (119) provide access to an interior region (121) between the upper and lower portions of the conveyor belt (112) that can facilitate maintenance and repairs efforts, thus saving labour cost and reduce downtime.

Improvements in the present technology

The following description described the improvement towards conventional curved powered belt conveyor (114), more specifically towards the US patent no. 10,392,191 Bl whereas the detent elements in the retaining arm are removed, and the retaining elements such as a pin that retains a roller assembly (122) in its disengaged position are no longer relevant.

Due to restricted access to remove the retaining elements for removal of the roller assembly (122), a significant time and operation is needed prior to removal of the roller assembly (122) whilst in position or having to remove the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) in its entirety for replacement of the roller assembly (122) or the bearing (105) itself. An improved rapid release mechanism eliminates the retaining elements resulting in a faster assembly time. However, there is a need to secure the entire roller assembly (122) within the footprint of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) to perform inspection or maintenance work without dismantling the entire curved powered belt conveyor (114). Elements fastened to the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) are introduced in place of the retaining elements for ease of installation and dismantling of the roller assembly (122) from the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) without the need of tools. Thus, the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) remains installed in position to the curved powered belt conveyor (114).

The roller assembly (122) is configured to engage the plurality of conveyor belt bead (113) which in turn provides tension to the outer boundary of the conveyor belt (112). The roller assembly (122) as shown in Fig.2a has the bearing (105) mounted on a bearing holder plate (104), whereas Fig.2b shows the bearing holder plate (104) is constructed with a pair of opposing actuating protrusions (108) and a pair of opposing engagement outdents (107) to facilitate the alignment and engagement of the roller assembly (122) on the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100). The pair of actuating protrusions (108) can be constructed in any shape such as a lever, a clamp, a ridge, a handle, an arm, or a latch. In a preferred embodiment, the pair of actuating protrusions (108) are thumb levers that can be actuated by hand for engagement and release of the roller assembly (122) from the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100).

Fig.3 depicts the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) consisting of a C-shaped channel (101) welded together with the base plate (102) and the top plate (103) to create a box shape with an open front end. A pair of slot indents (106) has an arcuate shape on both left and right side of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) for receiving the bearing holder plate (104) and by extension, the roller assembly (122). The roller assembly (122) is guided along the pair of slot indents (106) wherein the rear end of said roller assembly (122) passes through a pair of lock indents (110) and a pair of release indents (109) as shown in Fig.4 that results in securing the roller assembly (122) in a desired position. In another embodiment, the pair of slot indents (106) is a straight slot. However, the curvedshaped slot indent (106) is more efficient in holding the bearing holder plate (104).

The roller assembly (122) can be positioned on the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) to cooperatively engage the plurality of conveyor belt bead (113) fitted to the conveyor belt (112) to resist inward tension from the conveyor belt (112) as shown in Fig. 5. The inward tension is the result of the conveyor belt (112) tendency to pull towards the inner radius and off of the drive pulley (116) and the tail pulley (117) when operational.

With continued reference to Fig.5, a pair of opposing roller assembly (122) is positioned on the upper region of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) to engage the upper portion of the conveyor belt (112). A second pair of opposing roller assembly (122) is positioned on the lower region of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) to engage the lower portion of the conveyor belt (112).

The upper pair of roller assembly (122) can be vertically oriented as shown in Fig.5. In some embodiments, the lower pair of roller assembly (122) can be oriented at an angle Z based on the inner radius and conveyor belt (112) width ratio, with respect to the vertically oriented upper pair of roller assembly (122). Angling the lower pair of roller assembly (122) to the angle of the underside of the drive pulley (116) and tail pulley (117) can reduce wear and stress on the conveyor belt (112) and the plurality of conveyor belt bead (113).

The c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) has a recess (124) between the opposed pairs of roller assembly (122) to allow the conveyor belt (112) and the plurality of conveyor belt bead (113) to move past said c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) unhindered while the bearing (105) in each bearing holder plate (104) engages the plurality of conveyor belt bead (113).

Each roller assembly (122) is securely engaged to the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) as shown in Fig. 6. The c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) is designed to receive the roller assembly (122) by guiding the bearing holder plate (104) constructed on the roller assembly (122) along the pair of slot indent (106). The bearing holder plate (104) is constructed to neatly fit into the pair of slot indents (106). The pair of actuating protrusions (108) and the pair of engagement outdents (107) moulded to the bearing holder plate (104) ensures the roller assembly (122) aligned vertically when fitted to the pair of slot indents (106).

The pair of slot indent (106) is arcuate in shape to ensure a backward force towards the bearing holder plate (104) when one end of said bearing holder plate (104) is fitted to the rear end of the slot indent (106). The other end of said bearing holder plate (104) is secured under the pair of lock indents (110) that prevents the bearing holder plate (104) from disengaging by moving forward towards the conveyor belt (112).

The roller assembly (122) is considered engaged and secured when the bearing holder plate (104) is trapped between the radius at the rear end of the pair of slot indents (106) and the underside of the pair of opposing lock indents (110) located on the left and right sidewall of the c-shaped, closed- ended pillar weldment (100). As a result, the roller assembly (122) is coupled to the c-shaped, closed- ended pillar weldment (100) as shown in Fig. 7. The roller assembly (122) is positioned such that the bearing holder plate (104) is seated at the front edge face (111) of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100). The front side of the bearing holder plate (104) may be constructed with a larger dimension than the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) for seating the bearing holder plate (104) against a front edge face (111) of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100). Furthermore, the combination of bearing holder plate (104) engaged with the pair of slot indents (106) on the front edge face (111) of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) ensure any lateral force applied on or by the bearing holder plate (104) when operating the present technology is not transferred to any part of the pair of actuating protrusions (108). Instead, said lateral force is transferred along the edges of the bearing holder plate (104) and the pair of slot indents (106). This ensures the structural integrity of the pair of actuating protrusions (108) throughout the life of the present technology.

In an alternate embodiment of the pair of slot indents (106), the pair of slot indents (106) is facing downwards, thus allowing the pair of slot indents (106) to provide additional support to the sides of the bearing holder plate (104).

Replacing the conveyor belt

The following example explains how to use the rapid release mechanism to disengage the roller assembly (122) yet retaining the roller assembly (122) within the footprint of the c-shaped, closed- ended pillar weldment (100) for replacing the conveyor belt (112). The user gains access to the roller assembly (122) in the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) through the unobstructed open spaces (119). Next, the user manipulates the pair of actuating protrusions (108) along the pair of slot indents (106) to release said roller assembly (122).

When said roller assembly (122) is pushed forward via the pair of actuating protrusions (108), the bearing holder plate (104) contorts at the front-end point of the pair of slot indents (106) to allow the roller assembly (122) to pushed away until said roller assembly (122) no longer engages the pair of lock indents (110). The vertical push causes the left and right side of the bearing holder plate (104) to slide halfway along the pair of slot indents (106) before engaging with the pair of release indents (109). Subsequently, moving the roller assembly (122) causes the corresponding bearing (105) to move vertically and no longer contacts the plurality of conveyor belt bead (113) that was fitted to the conveyor belt (112).

Fig.8 depicts the roller assembly (122) engages with the pair of release indents (109) whilst the side of the bearing holder plate (104) retains halfway along the pair of slot indents (106). The engagement between the pair of release indents (109) and the roller assembly (122) ensure that the roller assembly (122) is still secured within the footprint of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100). This design ensures that only the desired component is removed for inspection without removing any other components. The user has to repeatedly perform this step on each roller assembly (122) within every c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) assembled to the curved powered belt conveyor (114). The roller assembly (122) is pushed towards the corresponding pair of release indents (109) via manipulation on the pair of actuating protrusions (108). Therefore, the distance D between opposing roller assembly (122) increases such that the conveyor belt (112) is no longer engaged to the roller assembly (122). As a result, the conveyor belt (112) loses the tension it creates when engaging to the plurality of bearing (105). The user may proceed to remove the conveyor belt (112) for inspection without the need to dismantle the entire curved powered belt conveyor (114).

If the inspected conveyor belt (112) is damaged, the damaged conveyor belt (112) can be replaced with a brand-new conveyor belt (112). Once said brand-new conveyor belt (112) is in place within the curved powered belt conveyor (114), the user has to pull the pair of actuating protrusions (108) of each roller assembly (122) towards each corresponding pair of slot indents (106) and vertically until the bearing holder plate (104) reaches the rear end of the pair of slot indents (106). When the bearing holder plate (104) reaches the rear end of the pair of slot indents (106), the bearing holder plate (104) reengages the lock indents (110) such that the bearing holder (104) is seated at the front edge of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100). In addition, the corresponding bearing (105) on said bearing holder plate (104) moves forward and reengages the plurality of conveyor belt bead (113). By extension, the conveyor belt (112) is reengaged as well.

Replacing the roller assembly

The following example explains how the rapid release mechanism is applied for removing the roller assembly (122) from the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) for inspection and if necessary, replace components or the entire roller assembly (122). First, the user has to manipulate the roller assembly (122) by pushing the pair of actuating protrusions (108) to release said roller assembly (122) from engaging the pair of lock indents (110). This step will cause said roller assembly (122) to engage with the pair of release indents (109) whilst the side of the bearing holder plate (104) retains halfway along the pair of slot indents (106).

Fig.9 and Fig. 10 depicts a close-up of the roller assembly (122) prevented from being released entirely from the footprint of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100). To remove said roller assembly (122) entirely from the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100), further manipulation is required by pushing the pair of actuating protrusions (108) forward such that the roller assembly (122) moves away and no longer engages the pair of lock indents (110). At this point, the roller assembly (122) can be removed completely from the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100), independently for inspection or replacement. Once the inspection is complete, said roller assembly (122) can be repositioned back to the c-shaped, closed- ended pillar weldment (100). The first step to reposition the roller assembly (122) is to align the pair of engagement outdents (107) located at the lower end of the bearing holder plate (104) on the roller assembly (122) with each corresponding wall of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) to position the roller assembly (122) horizontally. Next, align the pair of actuating protrusions (108) located at the upper end of the bearing holder plate (104) with each corresponding wall of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) to position the roller assembly (122) horizontally.

The bottom end of the bearing holder plate (104) is now located at the opening of the pair of slot indents (106) and the roller assembly (122) is pulled vertically into the pair of slot indents (106) until the base of the bearing holder plate (104) reaches the rear end of the slot indents (106) and clicks into position when engaged to the pair of lock indents (110).

Upon securing the roller assembly (122), the plurality of conveyor belt bead (113) is trapped between the opposing bearings (105). When the curved powered belt conveyor (114) is operational, the lateral force T applied from the conveyor belt bead (113) to the bearing (105) is transferred from the bearing (105) to the bearing holder plate (104), the pair of slot indents (106) as well as the front edge face (111) of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100).

Replacing the pillar weldment

The present invention is also constructed such that the curved powered belt conveyor (114) may continue operating even if one from the plurality of c-shaped, closed-ended structural weldment (100) was removed. The c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) can be separately dismantled from the frame (115) and the ring plate (118) without dismantling the entire curved powered belt conveyor (114). Upon dismantling said c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100), inspections can be conducted to assess any issues such as the integrity of bearing holder plate (104) and the bearing (105). Any damaged parts can be easily repaired or replaced. Once the inspections and maintenance work are completed, said c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) can be reassembled to the curved powered belt conveyor (114) by reconnecting the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) to the corresponding frame (115) and corresponding ring plate (118). If necessary, the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) can be replaced entirely with a brand-new c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100).

Reference in this specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the disclosure. The appearances of the phrase "in one embodiment" in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive of other embodiments. Moreover, various features are described which may be exhibited by some embodiments and not by others. Similarly, various features are described which may be requirements for some embodiments but not for other embodiments.

The terms used in this specification generally have their ordinary meanings in the art, within the context of the disclosure, and in the specific context where each term is used. It will be appreciated that the same thing can be said in more than one way. Consequently, alternative language and synonyms may be used for any one or more of the terms discussed herein, and any special significance is not to be placed upon whether or not a term is elaborated or discussed herein. Synonyms for some terms are provided. A recital of one or more synonyms does not exclude the use of other synonyms. The use of examples anywhere in this specification, including examples of any term discussed herein, is illustrative only and is not intended to further limit the scope and meaning of the disclosure or of any exemplified term. Likewise, the disclosure is not limited to various embodiments given in this specification. Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. In the case of conflict, the present document, including definitions, will control.

Claims

Claims: I /We Claim:

1. A c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) assembled to a curved powered belt conveyor (114), comprising: two pairs of opposing roller assembly (122), such that the first pair of opposing roller assembly (122) is positioned on the upper region of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) and the second pair of opposing roller assembly (122) is positioned on the lower region of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100), wherein each roller assembly (122) comprises: a bearing holder plate (104); and a bearing (105) mounted on the bearing holder plate (104) for engaging a plurality of conveyor belt bead (113) sewn to a conveyor belt (112), wherein the diameter of the bearing (105) is larger than the width of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) inner profile; characterized by a pair of opposed slot indents (106) located at both left and right side of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) to enable the roller assembly (122) to slide vertically into position on the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100); a pair of opposed engagement outdents (107) located at the one end of the bearing holder plate (104) on said roller assembly (122) to position the roller assembly (122) horizontally; a pair of opposed lock indents (110) located at both left and right side of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) for engagement with each corresponding roller assembly (122) to position said corresponding roller assembly (122) in an engaged position; a pair of opposed release indents (109) located at both left and right side of the c- shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) to retain the roller assembly (122) movement within the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) when disengaged from the pair of slot indents (106); and a pair of opposing actuating protrusions (108) moulded at one end of the bearing holder plate (104) for engagement on the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100), wherein the pair of actuating protrusions (108) is manipulated by hand to engage the roller assembly (122) from either the corresponding pair of lock indents (110) or the corresponding pair of release indents (109). The pair of opposing actuating protrusions (108) according to claim 1, wherein the pair of actuating protrusions (108) is manipulated by hand to disengage the roller assembly (122) from either the corresponding pair of lock indents (110) or the corresponding pair of release indents (109). The c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) according to claim 1, wherein the roller assembly (122) is fabricated from one or a combination of materials comprising of: plastic; nylon; wood; steel; and fibreglass. The c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) according to claim 1, wherein each roller assembly (122) has a shape (123) corresponding to the shape of each corresponding pair of slot indents (106) for facilitating engagement to the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100). The bearing holder plate (104) according to claim 1, wherein each actuating protrusions (108) is constructed on opposing sides of the bearing holder plate (104) from one of a combination comprising of: welding; braising; adhering; screwing; and moulding. The bearing holder plate (104) according to claim 1, wherein the pair of engagement outdents (107) is constructed on opposing sides of the bearing holder plate (104) from one of a combination comprising of: welding; braising; adhering; screwing; and moulding. The bearing holder plate (104) according to claim 1, wherein the bearing holder plate (104) contorts when the pair of actuating protrusions (108) is manipulated over both the pair of lock indents (110) and the pair of release indents (109) to release the roller assembly (122) from the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100). The roller assembly (122) according to claim 1, wherein the pair of engagement outdents (107) can be located internally in relation to the left and right side walls of the c-shaped, closed- ended pillar weldment (100). The roller assembly (122) according to claim 1 , wherein the pair of engagement outdents (107) can be located externally in relation to the left and right side walls of the c-shaped, closed- ended pillar weldment (100). The roller assembly (122) according to claim 1, wherein the pair of actuating protrusions (108) can be moulded to the bearing holder plate (104) such that the pair of actuating protrusions (108) is located outside the boundary of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100). The roller assembly (122) according to claim 1, wherein the pair of actuating protrusions (108) can be moulded to the bearing holder plate (104) such that the pair of actuating protrusions (108) is located within the sidewalls of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100). The roller assembly (122) according to claim 1, wherein the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) has a recess (124) between each pair of opposing roller assembly (122) to allow the conveyor belt (112) and the plurality of conveyor belt beads (113) access to move between the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100). The c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) according to claim 1, wherein the pair of actuating protrusions (108) can be moulded to the bearing holder plate (104) such that the pair of actuating protrusions (108) is located within the cut recess (124) of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100). The curved powered belt conveyor (114) according to claim 1, wherein an unobstructed open space (119) is between adjacent c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) to provide access to the roller assembly (122) in the corresponding c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) for maintenance or repair works. The c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) according to claim 1, wherein the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) does not contain a pivot to fasten the roller assembly (122) in position. The c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) according to claim 1, wherein the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) does not contain protrusions to fasten the roller assembly (122) in position. The c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) according to claim 1, wherein the bearing holder plate (104) does not contain flexible arms to locate the bearing holder plate (104) to the sides of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100). A method for maintaining a c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) assembled to a curved powered belt conveyor (114), comprising: inspecting the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100); inspecting a roller assembly (122); inspecting a bearing holder plate (104) assembled to the roller assembly (122); and inspecting the bearing (105) assembled to the roller assembly (122). The method for maintaining the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) assembled to the curved powered belt conveyor (114) according to claim 18, wherein further step comprises: pushing the actuating protrusions (108) forward along a pair of slot indents (106); manipulating the pair of actuating protrusions (108) moulded on a bearing holder plate (104) over a pair of lock indents (110) to disengage the roller assembly (122) coupled to the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100); and pushing the pair of actuating protrusion (108) such that the bearing holder plate (104) engages a pair of release indents (109) for the bearing (105) mounted on said bearing holder plate (104) to no longer contact a conveyor belt (112). The method for using the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) according to claim 19, wherein further step comprises: replacing the conveyor belt (112); and renewing the conveyor belt (112). The method for using the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) according to claim 19, wherein further step comprises: manipulating the pair of actuating protrusions (108) on the bearing holder plate (104) over the pair of release indents (109); pushing the roller assembly (122) vertically via the actuating protrusions (108) until the bearing holder plate (104) no longer engages the pair of slot indents (106) from the c- shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100); and disengaging the roller assembly (122) coupled to the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100). The method for using the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) according to claim 21, wherein further step comprises: positioning a pair of engagement outdent (107) and the pair of actuating protrusions (108) on the bearing holder plate (104) to align the roller assembly (122) between the left and right side walls of the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100); manipulating the bearing holder plate (104) into the slot indents (106); engaging the bearing holder plate (104) to the pair of release indents (109); pulling the roller assembly (122) vertically towards the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) via the actuating protrusions (108) along the slot indent (106); re-engaging the bearing holder plate (104) with the corresponding pair of slot indents (106); and engaging the pair of actuating protrusions (108) to the corresponding pair of lock indents (110), wherein the bearing (105) mounted on the bearing holder plate (104) re-contacts the plurality of conveyor belt bead (113) sewn to the conveyor belt (112). The removal of the roller assembly (122) according to claim 20, wherein maintenance on the bearing (105) is one or a combination of task comprising: inspecting the bearing (105) assembled to the roller assembly (122) for maintenance; removal of the bearing (105); and replacing the bearing (105) with a new bearing (105). The method for using the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) according to claim 18, wherein further steps comprising: disconnecting the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) from a frame (115) of the curved powered belt conveyor (114); disconnecting the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) from a ring plate (118) of the curved powered belt conveyor (114); conducting maintenance work on the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100); and reconnecting the c-shaped, closed-ended pillar weldment (100) to the frame (115) and the ring plate (118).