Modular link conveyor with interdigitating grid and interleaving side wings
US6223889A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 19, 1999 |
| Grant date | May 1, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 19, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65G2207/12
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A modular link conveyor includes a plurality of modular link assemblies made up of links of an improved design assembled to create a closely interdigitating conveying surface. The improved links eliminate undesirable gaps or openings in the conveying surface. Projecting fingers are provided for filling the openings between the legs of each link and also between adjoining links. The fingers aid in preventing the entry of any foreign objects in these openings. In a first alternative embodiment, the fingers are arcuate projections that extend across the legs adjacent to both openings. In a second alternative embodiment, the modular link assemblies carry a plate which forms the conveying surface. The plate is provided with alternating forwardly and rearwardly projecting fingers for filling the openings in the conveyor surface. The improved conveyor may also include special side links formed by the inclusion of wings that interleave during the turning of the conveyor to prevent the entry of any foreign objects along the side edges of the conveyor. The wings are formed having at least two tiers.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.