Sanitary hollow frame assembly

Abstract

A cleanable frame and a method for manufacturing a cleanable frame with a simplified frame design. A sanitary conveyor frame assembly includes a plurality of hollow tubular sections that are connected together forming an evacuated sealed conveyor frame support structure that acts as a sterilization zone. A monolithic conveyor way is placed on the support structure. Lifters coupled to the conveyor frame can lift the conveyor way and conveyor belt for cleaning. Infeed and outfeed assemblies can also move between an operational position and a cleaning position. Sensors can monitor conditions inside the frame to ensure that a vacuum is maintained and initiate corrective action if the vacuum seal is broken.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates generally to frames formed from sealed hollow tubing. The application of the invention is for frames for power and driven conveyors, and more specifically, for belt conveyor frames that are easy to clean and monitor for pathogens. BACKGROUND

[0002] In the food processing industry (e.g., meat, poultry, fruits, vegetables, dairy, and snack foods), conveyors are used to transport food products. Most conveyors are supported along a run and return, which in turn are supported by a conveyor frame structure. To meet USDA sanitation requirements, the conveyor system, consisting of the belt, frame structure, and associated conveyor components, must be cleanable.

[0003] To make the conveyor system cleanable, potential bacterial harborage must be carefully eliminated. It is well known in the food industry that potential bacterial harborage includes non-tight seals, non-sealed joint components (referred to as sandwiched), and threaded hollow areas. For this reason, there has been much development in eliminating threaded components, sandwiched, and especially all hollow components in the design. Hollow components are undesirable because it is not possible to verify that they remain tight after installation.

[0004] In addition, when different materials (e.g., stainless steel and UHMWPE) are required, the different materials cannot be easily sealed at their joint locations, often creating sandwiched. As a result, the materials are often sandwiched together, providing a harbor for bacteria.

[0005] Many conveyors are constructed from laser cut and formed stainless steel sheet metal. To achieve sufficient rigidity, many bends and welds are required, thereby increasing the surface area that needs to be cleaned and the angles that can be cleaned. The cost of building and cleaning such conveyor frame structures is high. Also, the conveyor frame structure is not as rigid as when made from stainless steel hollow tubing, which can increase vibration and noise.

[0006] Therefore, there is a need to establish a guarantee that hollow components are not potential harborage and to establish a conveyor design that optimizes joint locations where different materials mate to optimize functionality and ease of cleaning. SUMMARY

[0007] Conveyor systems embodying features of the invention address this need and others. A sanitary conveyor frame assembly includes a plurality of hollow tubular sections connected together forming an evacuated sealed conveyor frame support structure. An integral conveyor way is placed on the support structure. Lifters coupled to the conveyor frame can lift the conveyor way and belt for cleaning. Infeed and outfeed assemblies can also move between an operational position and a cleaning position. Sensors can monitor the internal conditions of each hollow section or component to ensure that a vacuum is maintained and to initiate corrective action if a vacuum seal is broken. Further, sensors can monitor the internal conditions of each hollow component to ensure that the conditions are not suitable for bacterial survival conditions.

[0008] According to one aspect, a conveyor frame includes a plurality of hollow sections connected together forming a support structure for a conveyor way, the support structure extending longitudinally from an infeed end to an outfeed end, and a sensor connected to one of the hollow sections for sensing conditions inside the hollow section.

[0009] According to another aspect, a method of monitoring a hollow conveyor frame includes evacuating an interior of the hollow conveyor frame, and sensing pressure changes in the interior using a sensor in communication with the interior.

[0010] According to another aspect, a hollow conveyor frame structure supporting a conveyor belt circuit includes at least one hollow frame component, wherein an interior of the hollow frame component is evacuated and sealed to have a lower pressure than ambient pressure such that the differential pressure is negative, and a sensor in communication with the sealed region for measuring pressure of the sealed region.

[0011] According to another aspect, a conveyor way for supporting a conveyor belt traveling from a conveyor infeed end to an outfeed end includes a plurality of longitudinal plastic tracks extending in a direction of belt travel, and at least one plastic cross member connecting at least two longitudinal plastic tracks to form a unitary structure.

[0012] According to another aspect, a conveyor way lifter for selectively raising a conveyor way of a conveyor above a support structure of the conveyor for cleaning includes a cross track, a handle extending from a first end of the cross track, a latch arm extending upwardly from a middle portion of the cross track and offset from the handle, the latch arm forming an open cradle for a conveyor way track, and a lift arm at the middle portion for lifting the conveyor way track.

[0013] According to another aspect, a flight assembly for a conveyor belt includes a pair of opposing mounting plates. Each mounting plate has a protrusion for mounting the flight assembly and a latch for receiving and locking a spring tab. The flight assembly is mounted between the mounting plates and includes a pair of opposing arms pivotally mounted to the protrusions to form a first pivot point, a flight mounting bar extending between the pair of opposing arms, a flight bar mounted to the flight mounting bar, and a spring tab connected to the mounting bar, the spring tab being received in the latch to bias the flight bar into contact with the conveyor belt.

[0014] According to another aspect, a drive head for a positive drive conveyor belt includes a pair of mounting plates and a drive sprocket mounted between the mounting plates and a limit stop flight assembly. The limit stop flight assembly includes a roller extending between two connecting plates mounted to the mounting plates and a flight assembly having a flight bar mounted to the two connecting plates.

[0015] According to another aspect, a roller for a conveyor includes a shaft extending from a first end to a second end and a plastic element completely encasing the shaft and forming a contoured enlarged portion for contacting a conveyor belt and a grooved portion for minimizing contact with the conveyor belt.

[0016] According to another aspect, a conveyor includes a frame, a conveyor path extending from a feed-in end to a feed-out end and supported by the frame, and a conveyor path lifter mounted to the frame for selectively raising the conveyor path above the frame.

[0017] According to another aspect, a frame includes a plurality of hollow tubular segments connected together to form a support structure having an evacuated and sealed interior, and a sensor in communication with the evacuated and sealed interior for measuring an internal pressure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0018] These and other aspects and features of the present application are more fully described in the following description, in the appended claims, and in the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0019] Figure 1 is an isometric side view of a sanitary conveyor frame according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0020] Figure 2 is an isometric side view of a sanitary conveyor frame according to an embodiment of the present application; Figure 1 is an isometric top side view of a sanitary conveyor frame of

[0021] Figure 3 is an isometric top side view of a sanitary conveyor frame of Figure 1 is an exploded view of a sanitary conveyor frame of

[0022] Figure 4 is a side view of a sanitary conveyor frame of Figure 1 wherein a conveyor belt is running around the feed-in and feed-out ends, wherein the conveyor belt and conveyor path are raised in a cleaning mode;

[0023] Figure 5 display Figure 1 the sanitary conveyor frame of

[0024] Figure 6 is an isometric view of the uniform conveyor of

[0025] Figure 7 is a bottom view of the uniform conveyor of Figure 6

[0026] Figure 8 is a detail view of the pins on the conveyor bottom of Figure 7

[0027] Figure 9 is an isometric side view of the infeed conveyor and belt lifter according to an embodiment of the present invention

[0028] Figure 10 is an isometric front view of the infeed conveyor and belt lifter according to an embodiment of the present invention

[0029] Figure 11 is an isometric rear view of the infeed conveyor and belt lifter according to an embodiment of the present invention

[0030] Figure 12 is an isometric side view of the outfeed conveyor lifter according to an embodiment of the present invention

[0031] Figure 13 is an isometric front view of the outfeed conveyor lifter according to an embodiment of the present invention

[0032] Figure 14 is an isometric rear view of the outfeed conveyor lifter according to an embodiment of the present invention

[0033] Figure 15 is a detailed close-up view of the outfeed lifter shown in the lowered operating position

[0034] Figure 16A is a detailed close-up view of the infeed lifter shown in the raised cleaning position of Figures 12-14

[0035] is a detailed close-up view of the outfeed lifter shown in the raised cleaning position of Figure 16B Figures 9-11 is a cross-sectional side view of the conveyor frame and conveyor of

[0036] Figure 17 is a cross-sectional side view of the conveyor frame and conveyor of Figure 1

[0037] ​​​​Figure 18 is a detailed view of the infeed portion of an embodiment of Figure 17

[0038] Figure 19 is a detailed view of the infeed portion of an embodiment of Figure 17

[0039] Figure 20 is a detailed view of the infeed portion of an embodiment of Figure 17

[0040] Figure 21 is a cross-sectional side view of the conveyor frame and the conveyor path of Figure 1 in a cleaning position with the lifter raised;

[0041] Figure 22 is a detailed view of the infeed portion of an embodiment of Figure 21

[0042] Figure 23 is a detailed view of the infeed portion of an embodiment of Figure 21

[0043] Figure 24 is a detailed view of the outfeed portion of an embodiment of

[0044] Figure 25 is an exploded view of the conveyor frame of Figure 1

[0045] Figure 26 is another view of the conveyor frame of Figure 1

[0046] Figure 27 is a detailed view of the outfeed portion of the conveyor frame of Figure 26

[0047] Figure 28 is an isometric view of a stopper-scraper assembly for a conveyor frame according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0048] Figure 29 is an exploded view of the stopper-scraper assembly of Figure 28

[0049] Figure 30 is an isometric view of the stopper-scraper assembly of Figure 27 after unlatching it from an operational position;

[0050] Figure 31 is an isometric view of the stopper-scraper assembly of Figure 30 during a transition from an operational position to a cleaning position;

[0051] ​​​​​​​​​Figure 32 is Figure 30 an isometric view of the limit stop - scraper assembly in the cleaning position;

[0052] Figure 33 shows the self-conveyor frame disassembled Figure 27 the limit stop - scraper assembly;

[0053] Figure 34 is an isometric view of the wave feed-in roller of an embodiment of the invention;

[0054] Figure 35 is a front view of the wave feed-in roller of Figure 34 ;

[0055] Figure 36 is an isometric view of the feed-in roller mounting plate for mounting the roller to the conveyor frame of Figure 34 ;

[0056] Figure 37 is a detailed view of the feed-in portion of the conveyor with the wave feed-in roller of Figure 34 in the raised position;

[0057] Figure 38 is a front view of the conveyor frame comprising the wave feed-in roller of Figure 34 ;

[0058] Figure 39 is a cross-sectional view of the wave feed-in roller of Figure 38 ;

[0059] Figure 40 is a bottom isometric view of the conveyor frame comprising the wave return path roller according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0060] Figure 41 shows a sensor in the conveyor frame for monitoring the hollow interior of the conveyor frame according to another embodiment of the invention;

[0061] Figure 42 is a side view of the sensor suitable for monitoring the hollow interior of the conveyor frame according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0062] Figure 43 is a top view of the sensor of Figure 42 ;

[0063] Figure 44 is a cross-sectional view of the sensor of Figure 43 ;

[0064] Figure 45 is an isometric view of the sensor of Figure 42 ;

[0065] Figure 46is an elevation view of a vacuum tool and a sensor during a process of inserting the sensor into a can (cand) according to an embodiment of the present invention, the process showing a process of inserting the sensor into a hollow port;

[0066] Figure 47 is Figure 46 an elevation view of a vacuum tool and a sensor during evacuation of a hollow body

[0067] Figure 48 is Figure 46 an elevation view of a vacuum tool and a sensor when the vacuum tool seals a hollow body with the sensor;

[0068] Figure 49 is an elevation view of a vacuum tool and a sensor according to an embodiment of the present invention Figure 46 after releasing the vacuum tool, leaving the sensor to monitor the hollow body;

[0069] Figure 50 is an isometric view of a sensor suitable for monitoring a conveyor frame hollow interior according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0070] Figure 51 is another view of the sensor of Figure 50 ;

[0071] Figure 52 is a top view of the sensor of Figure 50 ;

[0072] Figure 53 is a side view of the sensor of Figure 50 ;

[0073] Figure 54 is a cross-sectional view of the sensor of Figure 50 ;

[0074] Figure 55 is a bottom view of the sensor of Figure 50 ;

[0075] Figure 56 is a top view of a sensor suitable for monitoring a conveyor frame hollow interior according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0076] Figure 57 is a side view of the sensor of Figure 56 ;

[0077] Figure 58 is a cross-sectional view of the sensor of Figure 56 ;

[0078] Figure 59 is an isometric view of the sensor of Figure 56 ;

[0079] Figure 60 yes Figure 56 Another view of the sensor;

[0080] Figure 61 This is a top view of a sensor suitable for monitoring the hollow interior of a conveyor frame, according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0081] Figure 62 yes Figure 61 A cross-sectional view of the sensor; and

[0082] Figure 63 yes Figure 61 An isometric view of the sensor. Detailed Implementation

[0083] The conveyor frame embodying the features of the present invention is shown in Figures 1-5 In the middle. The exemplary conveyor frame 10 supports the conveyor belt 40 ( Figure 4 As shown in the diagram, the conveyor belt travels between a first end (feed end 11) and a second end (feed end 12) of the frame. The conveyor belt transports products from the first end 11 to the second end 12 along a conveyor track. The conveyor belt 40 may run around a reversing element at each end of the conveyor track and return along a return track 42 below the conveyor track. The frame 10 minimizes components through simplification and integration to enhance cleanliness while ensuring sufficient strength.

[0084] The illustrative frame 10 includes multiple hollow tubular sections forming a support structure 20 for a conveyor 30. The conveyor 30 is mounted to the support structure for guiding a conveyor belt from an inlet end 11 to an outlet end 12. The inlet end 11 includes an opposing mounting plate 110 configured to mount inlet guide rollers 114 and other inlet components as needed. The outlet end 12 includes an opposing mounting plate 120 configured to mount drivers 124 for the conveyor belt and other outlet components. The frame also includes return rollers 70 mounted to a return roller mount 72 below the conveyor 30.

[0085] The illustrative support structure 20 comprises multiple circular, hollow stainless steel segments connected together to provide support for the conveyor belt 30. Circular tracks are stronger but lighter and less expensive than solid stainless steel. The hollow interior of the support structure 20 is evacuated to inhibit the growth of any living organisms within, thereby killing most of them, and is sealed to prevent contamination. A sensor 210 may be provided to monitor the seal and provide an alarm or initiate other corrective actions in the event of a seal failure.

[0086] While the invention is not limited thereto, the support structure 20 includes an upper longitudinal track 21 spanning the length of the conveyor, a lower longitudinal ridge 22, lateral support tracks 23 at the feed and feed-out ends, a lateral upper track 24 at the feed and feed-out ends of the upper longitudinal track 21, legs 29, and additional lateral and longitudinal support tracks 25, 26 extending between the legs. An intermediate support shaft 27 with two end rollers extends laterally above the upper longitudinal ridge 21. Rollers 28 may extend below the legs 29. The invention is not limited to the illustrative configuration, and multiple circular hollow tubes can be connected in any suitable configuration to provide support for the conveyor.

[0087] Figures 6-8 The illustrative conveyor 30 shown is a single, uniform structure formed of a low-friction material (e.g., UHMW). The conveyor includes a plurality of longitudinal tracks 31 for supporting a conveyor belt connected by transverse tracks 32, 33, and 34. In this particular embodiment, the longitudinal tracks 31 extend from the feed end 11 to the feed end 12 when inserted into the support structure 20. The conveyor 30 further includes pins 36 extending from the bottom for engaging an intermediate support shaft 27. As shown in Figure 8, the pins 36 extend from the bottom of two of the longitudinal tracks 31 on each side of the intermediate transverse track 33. The single conveyor 30 is located on top of the support structure 20, as... Figure 1 , 2 As shown in Figure 5, and described in detail below.

[0088] The conveyor frame 10 further includes at least one belt and conveyor lift (shown as feed lift 50 and feed lift 60) for locking the position of the conveyor during operation and selectively lifting the conveyor and conveyor belt to allow cleaning or other access operations. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The elevators 50 and 60 are shown in the downward operating position, with the conveyor 30 lying flat above the support structure 20. Figure 4 and Figure 5 Elevators 50 and 60 are shown in the raised position, wherein the conveyor 30 is raised at an angle above the support structure 20, and the conveyor belt 40 is raised above the conveyor 30 for cleaning and access.

[0089] Figures 9-11 Explanatory feeder lift 60. The feeder belt lift 60 includes a transverse track 61 spanning the width of the conveyor. The transverse track 61 is housed in openings 121, 122 in the feeder mounting plate (see...). Figure 3 and Figure 25). One opening 121 can be a closed hole and the other opening 122 can be an open slot with a narrow mouth. The cross rail 61 can have a notch or other narrowing to facilitate insertion into the open slot 122. The handle 62 extends in a positive direction from the first end of the cross rail. The illustrative handle 62 is perpendicular to the cross rail 61, but the invention is not limited in this regard and can be horizontal in the operative position. The feed elevator 60 includes a latch arm 63 extending upwardly from the cross rail and offset 90° from the handle 62. The latch arm 63 forms an open cradle for the cross rail 32 of the transport lane, the cradle facing in the same direction as the handle 62 extends. Hook arms 64 for lifting the transport belt 40 extend downwardly at an obtuse angle to the cross rail with the hooks facing downwardly. L-shaped arms 65 are disposed between the hook arms 64 and include a guide rod portion extending slightly forwardly and downwardly at a smaller angle to the cross rail than the hook arms 64, and a vertical support portion parallel to the cross rail 61 for contacting the bottom of both transport lane longitudinal rails 31 to lift the transport lane. Vertical pins 66 are located outside the latch arms 63 and extend upwardly and downwardly from the cross rail 61 for safely locking the side guards 170, 171 in place when the transport lane 30 is in the operative position. A stop 68 comprising the L-shaped arms extends upwardly and slightly rearwardly from the cross rail 61 between the handle 62 and the pins 66 to limit rotation of the elevator.

[0090] In the illustrative embodiment, the placement of the elements of the elevator around the periphery of the cross rail facilitates locking the transport lane during operation and lifting the transport lane and the transport belt during cleaning.

[0091] Figures 12-14A detail close-up view of the infeed lifter 50 is shown in the lowered, operative position. The infeed lifter 50 is rotatably mounted to the infeed plate 120. In this position, the latch arms 53 engage the cross rails 32 of the conveyor to prevent longitudinal movement of the conveyor. The pins 56 prevent lateral movement of the conveyor 30 when the conveyor is raised in its cleaning position. The hook arms 64 are lowered below the conveyor and away from the belt, and the L-arms 55 are also lowered and not in contact with the conveyor rails 31.

[0092] Figure 15 A detail close-up view of the outfeed lifter 60 is shown in the lowered, operative position. The outfeed lifter 60 is rotatably mounted to the outfeed plate 120. In this position, the latch arms 63 engage the cross rails 32 of the conveyor to prevent longitudinal movement of the conveyor. The pins 66 prevent lateral movement of the conveyor 30 when the conveyor is raised in its cleaning position. The hook arms 64 are lowered below the conveyor and away from the belt, and the L-arms 65 are also lowered and not in contact with the conveyor rails 31.

[0093] Figure 16A A detail close-up view of the infeed lifter 50 is shown in the raised, cleaning position. The handle 52 is rotated upward until the arms 58 abut the stops 241 on the side arms 24 of the side plates 112. Rotation of the handle about the rail 51 causes the latch arms 53 to disengage the cross rails 34 of the conveyor from the L-arms 55 to move upward, pushing the conveyor rails 31 upward.

[0094] Figure 16BA detailed close-up view of the feeder 60 in the elevated cleaning position. The handle 62 is rotated upwards until the arm 68 abuts against the stop 242 on the side plate 121. Rotation of the handle about the track 61 causes the latching arm to disengage the conveyor transverse track 32 from the L-shaped arm 65, moving it upwards and pushing the conveyor track 31 upwards. The hook arm 64 rises above the conveyor track to push the conveyor belt above the conveyor. Because the L-shaped arm 65 is higher than the L-shaped arm 55, the feeder end of the conveyor 31 is raised higher than the feeder end.

[0095] Figure 17 A cross-sectional side view of the top portion of the conveyor frame in the operating position, with elevators 50 and 60 lowered. Figure 18 yes Figure 17 Detailed view of the feed section. Figure 19 yes Figure 17 Detailed view of the middle part, and Figure 20 yes Figure 17 Detailed view of the feed section. In the operating position, handles 52, 62 are horizontal and extend towards the longitudinal center of the conveyor. Lateral arms 53, 63 engage lateral rails 34, 32 on the conveyor 30, and pin 36 engages the intermediate shaft 27 of the frame with a gap, preventing longitudinal movement of the conveyor 30 during elevation to ensure that latching arms 53, 63 can re-engage with lateral rails 34, 32 when the conveyor is lowered. The conveyor 30 rests on the elevator lateral arms 51, 61 during operation.

[0096] Figure 21 This is a cross-sectional side view of the conveyor frame in the clean position, with elevators 50 and 60 raised. Figure 22 yes Figure 21 Detailed view of the feed section. Figure 23 yes Figure 21 A detailed view of the middle section, and Figure 24 yes Figure 21 Detailed view of the feed section. To elevate the conveyor and belt, handles 52 and 62 are rotated to the raised position, as shown. Figure 21 As shown in the diagram. Rotation of hands 52 and 62 causes the connected transverse tracks 51 and 62 to rotate, thereby causing latching arms 53 and 63 to disengage transverse conveyor tracks 34 and 32 and push L-shaped arms 55 and 65 to an elevated position. The L-shaped arms raise the central conveyor track 31. The L-shaped arm 65 rises even higher, thus the elevated conveyor is higher at the feed end. Hook arm 64 also rises, thereby pushing the conveyor belt (if present). Pin 36 continues to engage intermediate shaft 27 to maintain the longitudinal position of the conveyor.

[0097] The illustrative sanitary conveyor also includes an easy-to-clean drive and a feed belt guide. (Reference) Figures 25-27The outfeed end 12 includes opposing mounting plates 120 at the outfeed end of the run. The infeed end 11 includes opposing infeed plates 110 at the infeed end of the run for mounting a roller mounting assembly 116, which includes opposing roller mounting plates 117 connected by a rail 118, and a shaped infeed roller 114 mounted to the roller mounting plates 117 for guiding the conveyor belt from the return run to the run.

[0098] Each illustrative outfeed mounting plate 120 includes a front opening shown as a slot 123 with an integral inner bearing for mounting a drive shaft of a conveyor belt drive shown as a motorized sprocket 124. Above the slot, the mounting plate 120 includes a protrusion 126 that forms a pivot mount for a stopper-scraper assembly 140. The mounting plate 120 further includes rear openings 121, 122 for mounting an outfeed belt lifter 60. In the illustrative embodiment, opening 121 is a closed hole, while opening 122 is a slot open to the rear edge of the corresponding mounting plate to facilitate installation of the belt lifter 60. A latch 142 extends from the bottom of the mounting plate 120 for latching a spring tab or other retainer on the stopper-scraper assembly 140, as described below.

[0099] Figures 25-27 The illustrative sanitary conveyor shown in FIG. 1 further includes side guards 170, 171 mounted to the frame for containing the conveyor belt 40 on the run. In one embodiment, one or both of the lifters 50, 60 can be used to lock the side guards 170, 171 in place.

[0100] The stopper-scraper assembly 140, for one embodiment shown in Figure 28 and Figure 29 includes a roller limiter 141 that includes a roller extending from a first end to a second end and a shaft 143 extending from each end of the roller. During operation of the conveyor belt, the roller limiter is designed to ensure proper engagement between the drive elements on the conveyor belt and the drive structure on the drive 124.

[0101] Opposing limiter connecting plates 150 connect the roller limiter 141 to the conveyor frame. Each limiter connecting plate 150 includes an upper hook 151 for mounting the plate to the feed-out mounting plate 120 via the protrusion 126. A curved neck 152 forms a corner for the protruding shaft of the driver 124. Below the upper hook 151, an elongated opening 153 receives a cylindrical cap 160 that houses a bearing 161 for rotatably mounting the roller limiter shaft 143. Adjacent the elongated opening 153, an outward facing opening 155 includes top and bottom protrusions 158, 156 that form a throat to the opening 155, enabling pivoting of the squeegee shaft 171 about a fixed point of the roller limiter shaft 143.

[0102] The limiter connecting plate 150 also mounts a squeegee assembly that contacts the outer surface of the conveyor belt during operation to remove dirt and debris. A squeegee mounting bar 171 extends between the two limiter connecting plates. The squeegee mounting bar 171 extends through the throat of the opening 155. During operation, the squeegee mounting bar 171 can move between the upper 158 and lower 156 protrusions of the limiter connecting plate 150 as it pivots about the shaft of the cylindrical cap 160 under tension. When the squeegee 174 is sufficiently worn, the squeegee mounting bar 171 will eventually come into contact with the upper protrusion 158 and will stop applying pressure to the belt, necessitating replacement of the squeegee 174. If a large occlusion passes between the belt 40 and the squeegee 174, the squeegee bar 171 will pivot downward and can come into contact with the lower protrusion 156, limiting the amount of movement the squeegee 174 can move away from the belt 40. Arms 172 connect each end of the squeegee mounting bar 171 to the cylindrical cap 160. A squeegee 174 is mounted in a squeegee mounting tap 176 that extends from the squeegee mounting bar 171.

[0103] A tensioning and locking mechanism, shown as spring leaf 145, extends rearward from the cylindrical cap 160 for locking the limiter assembly 140 in an operational position and applying pressure to bias the squeegee against the conveyor belt. The spring leaf 145 includes an enlarged center portion 146 with an opening 147 for engaging the latch 142 of the feed-out mounting plate 130. The illustrative spring leaf 145 utilizes 316 type stainless steel that is cold rolled to harden it and make it suitable for use as a spring, although the invention is not limited in this regard. Any suitable means for tensioning the squeegee can be used.

[0104] In Figure 26 and Figure 27In the operating mode shown in FIG. 1, the locking tabs 145 or other retainers, and the limiter attachment plate 150 are positioned relative to the mounting plate 130 to place the feed-out assembly in the operating position. The roller limiter 141 is positioned relative to the conveyor belt 40 to ensure proper engagement of the belt with the drive 124. The cylindrical cap 160 is seated in the bottom of the opening 153. The doctor blade 174 is biased into contact with the outer surface of the conveyor belt to remove debris. The doctor blade mounting bar 171 operates between the lower protrusion 156 and the upper protrusion 158 of the mouth of the limiter attachment plate 150. The feed-in roller 114 is positioned by the roller mounting assembly to guide the conveyor belt from the return path to the conveyor path.

[0105] To move the limiter assembly 140 to the cleaning position, the locking tabs 145 are unlatched from the latches 142, as shown in FIG. 2, and the limiter assembly 140 is rotated upward and outward about the pivot point 126, as shown in FIG. 3. The limiter assembly 140 can continue to rotate until the upper protrusion 158 of the limiter attachment plate 150 is seated in the opening 153 of the mounting plate 130, as shown in FIG. 4. Figure 30 Figure 31 The limiter assembly 140 can then be easily rotated back to the operating position and latched into place. Figure 32

[0106] The limiter assembly 140 can then be easily rotated back to the operating position and latched into place.

[0107] Alternatively, the limiter assembly 140 can be completely removed from the conveyor frame by lifting the assembly upward and out of engagement with the pivot point 126 after the latches are released, as shown in FIG. 5, due to the open upper hook 151. Figure 33

[0108] Referring to FIG. 6, the feed-in guide roller 114 and the roller mounting assembly 116 can also be rotated out of place to facilitate cleaning. The roller mounting plate 117 includes an outward facing open seat 119 for mounting a shaft on the feed-in guide roller 114. The open seat 113 mounts each roller mounting plate 117 to the corresponding feed-in plate 110 and allows the assembly 116 to pivot about the mounting plate 110 attached to the feed-in end of the conveyor path. Figures 34 to 39

[0109] ​​​​The illustrative guide roller 114 described below comprises a corrugated roller having a series of convex and concave curves forming peaks 1141 and valleys 1142. The guide roller includes: a fully enclosed central shaft 1143, which may be made of stainless steel to provide strength; and a molded plastic that encloses the central shaft and forms the corrugated body. End discs 1145 may also be formed as part of the unified body of the roller 114 and are disposed at each end of the guide roller 114 for receiving a conveyor belt. Figure 39 As shown, the shaft 1143 can be completely enclosed in a plastic 1146 (which may be UHMW) forming the body of the roller and the end disc 1145. The sculpted design of the roller 114 minimizes contact between the roller and the conveyor belt and reduces product spread, while allowing the conveyor belt to be dynamically cleaned.

[0110] like Figure 40 As shown, the return roller 70 may also include a molded roller body having a wider circular portion 174 and a narrower circular portion 175. The illustrative roller also includes a central shaft encased in a plastic such as UHMW, or stainless steel. The return roller 70 is housed in a return roller mount 72, which includes a track extending upward from a lower ridge 22 and terminating in an open support that houses the encased end of the return roller.

[0111] As previously described, the illustrative hygiene conveyor frame 10 comprises multiple hollow circular tracks that provide strength while reducing cost. The circular tracks promote cleanliness because there is no plane for water or product to accumulate. In one embodiment, a vacuum is created inside the hollow interior of the tracks and the vacuum is sealed. The vacuum inhibits the growth of all pathogens and other life within the hollow interior of the frame and kills most living organisms within. Figure 41 As shown, sensor 210 monitors the hollow interior and issues a warning or pre-defined corrective action when the hollow is damaged. Sensor 210 is coupled to port 202 in the conveyor frame and communicates with the hollow interior of the frame support structure 20.

[0112] Sensors can have any suitable size, shape, location, configuration, or operating component. (Reference) Figures 42-45One embodiment of the sensor 210 includes a printed circuit board 212 wired to measure pressure. The printed circuit board 212 can include an indicator, such as a light emitting diode, that illuminates if the seal is broken or another condition is sensed. Other suitable indicators can be used. The printed circuit board 212 is housed in a housing 214. The electronics can be removable for repair or replacement. The housing 214 includes a lower portion 215 having a threaded neck 216 for connecting to a corresponding port in the conveyor frame having internal threads, an internal opening for the sensor 212, and an open path 219 to a mouth 217 for the sensor 212 to communicate with the void in the conveyor frame when the neck is inserted into the port of the frame. Any suitable means for forming a sealed connection between the port and the sensor can be used, and the present invention is not limited to a threaded connection. The illustrative lower portion 215 is formed of stainless steel. The sensor housing 214 also includes a top portion 218 that is coupled to the lower portion 215 to seal the sensor. In the illustrative embodiment, the top portion and lower portion 215 mate by a threaded connection, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In the illustrative embodiment, the top portion 218 is formed of plastic. A seal, such as an O-ring 220, seals the joint between the upper and lower housing portions. Another seal, shown as an O-ring 222, surrounds the threaded neck 216 to seal the joint between the frame port and the sensor 210.

[0113] Figures 46-49 The following procedure is shown: insertion of the sensor 210, evacuation of the void in the conveyor frame and initiation of monitoring of the void in the conveyor frame to ensure that it remains sealed. The vacuum tool 350 is used to insert the sensor 210, and to evacuate the connected void in the conveyor frame sufficiently to achieve a kill zone throughout the interior of the conveyor frame.

[0114] In the event that the relevant pathogens are not sufficiently killed by the vacuum, a concentrated amount of ozone can be added to the evacuated void conveyor frame until the relevant pathogens have been killed. At this time, the void conveyor frame can be re-evacuated to a suitable level such that the pressure monitor sensor detects the impending breach.

[0115] The vacuum tool 350 includes a housing having a vacuum port 354 connected to an air hose that forms a vacuum. The housing has an open chamber 356 at an end that can fit over the sensor 210. A seal, such as an O-ring 358, seals the opening of the chamber 356. The vacuum tool 350 further includes a wrench 360 that is movable into and rotatable within the open chamber 356 to thread the sensor 210 into the conveyor frame port 202.

[0116] In Figure 46In the first step shown, without sealing the conveyor frame, sensor 210 is partially screwed into port 202 of conveyor frame 10. The sensor port and open path are positioned to communicate with the hollow interior 206 of the conveyor frame. Figure 47 In the second step shown, a vacuum tool 350 is mounted above the sensor 210, creating a seal. Next, air is evacuated from the frame interior 206, sensor 210, and vacuum tool 350 via vacuum port 354, creating a vacuum that inhibits the growth of pathogens and all living matter within the frame interior 206, and kills most of the living organisms inside. Next, as... Figure 48 As shown, a wrench 360 or other suitable tool engages the sensor housing 214 to seal the port 202 with the sensor 210 while maintaining a vacuum. The illustrative wrench 360 is rotated within the chamber 356 to screw into the sensor, but any suitable component for sealing the port with the sensor can be used. Then, as... Figure 49 As shown, the vacuum can be released and the vacuum tool 350 removed. Sensor 210 seals port 202 to maintain the vacuum within the hollow interior 206 of the frame and also monitors the conditions within the hollow interior to detect any breaks in the vacuum.

[0117] In one embodiment, an indicator on the sensor can be used to indicate conditions inside the conveyor frame. For example, the indicator may emit yellow light during a vacuum-initiated sterilization cycle. The sensor may display green light when sterilization is complete and the interior is evacuated and sealed. Red light may indicate internal damage.

[0118] Sensor 210 can utilize any suitable component for detecting and initiating warnings of impaired vacuum. For example, the sensor can be an active short-range sensor that emits a signal that can be read on a nearby device, such as a blue tooth device. The sensor can also be an active long-range sensor that emits a signal that can be read in a control room of equipment monitoring one or more conveyors. The sensor can be passive, using radio frequency identification (RFID) or other components that can be read by an active reader.

[0119] Figures 50-55Another embodiment of a sensor 310 that can be used to seal and monitor a hollow interior of a conveyor frame is shown. The sensor 310 includes a housing 314 having a neck 316 with an open mouth 317 and an interior for receiving electronics 312 for sensing a condition such as pressure. An electronic backplane 322 is also housed in the housing 314. The illustrative housing 314 is plastic, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The housing 314 forms a flange 323 with an opening 324 for receiving a fastener to mount the sensor 310 to a conveyor frame port that communicates with the hollow frame interior. A lower O-ring 325 or other suitable seal seals the joint between the port and the housing 314. A cap 315 is coupled to the housing 314 to seal the electronics inside the interior of the housing 314. The cap 315 can be plastic or another material and is welded or otherwise sealed to the housing 314. The cap includes an umbrella check valve 326 for applying a vacuum. A removable plug 318 is coupled to the cap to seal the sensor 310. The removable plug 318 is removed to apply a vacuum to evacuate the sensor and the connected hollow frame interior.

[0120] Figures 56-60 Another embodiment of a sensor 410 that can be used to seal and monitor a hollow interior of a conveyor frame is shown. The sensor 410 includes a lower housing 414 having a threaded neck 416 with electronics 412 for measuring pressure mounted therein. A cap 415 is coupled to the lower housing 414 and includes a check valve 422 to allow a vacuum to be applied. An O-ring 425 seals the joint between the sensor and an associated port to the hollow interior of the frame, and an outer cap 417 encloses the upper assembly of the sensor 410. The sensor 410 can be screwed into a threaded port of a conveyor frame designed to accommodate the sensor 410.

[0121] Figures 61-63 Another embodiment of a sensor that can be used to monitor a hollow interior of a conveyor frame is shown. The sensor 510 includes an RFID tag 512 embedded in an opening 513 in a conveyor frame rail 514 to the evacuated hollow interior 506. The RFID tag 512 is open to the evacuated hollow interior with opposing facing antennas. A potted 516 covers the RFID tag 512 to insulate the sensor from the environment. The RFID tag can be read to determine the pressure of the conveyor interior and ensure that the vacuum seal has not been breached.

[0122] A sensor for monitoring the pressure of a vacuum sealed conveyor frame interior can include any suitable configuration, communication means, sensing means, mounting means, and be inserted into any suitable port in a conveyor frame, but is not limited to the illustrative embodiments.

[0123] Although the application has been described with reference to particular versions, other versions are possible. The scope of the application is not intended to be limited to the exemplary versions described in the detailed description.

Claims

1. A conveyor frame for the food processing industry, comprising: a plurality of hollow tubular sections connected together forming a support structure for a conveying lane, the support structure having a hollow sealed interior and extending longitudinally from a feed-in end to a feed-out end, wherein the hollow sealed interior is evacuated to inhibit the growth of bacteria; and a sensor connected to a conveyor frame port formed in one of the hollow tubular sections for sensing a breach in the vacuum within the interior of the support structure, the sensor including a printed circuit board housed in a housing, the housing including a lower portion having a threaded neck for connecting to the conveyor frame port, a top portion coupled to the lower portion to seal the printed circuit board, a first seal between the lower portion and the top portion, and a second seal for sealing a joint between the conveyor frame port and the threaded neck.

2. The conveyor frame of claim 1, further comprising the conveying lane on top of the support structure, the conveying lane including a plurality of longitudinal sections extending from the feed-in end to the feed-out end.

3. The conveyor frame of claim 2, wherein the longitudinal sections are connected by a plurality of transverse sections.

4. The conveyor frame of claim 2, further comprising a set of feed-in mounting plates at the feed-in end and a set of feed-out mounting plates at the feed-out end.

5. The conveyor frame of claim 4, further comprising a conveying lane lifter mounted to the feed-in mounting plates for selectively raising the conveying lane above the support structure in a cleaning mode.

6. The conveyor frame of claim 4, further comprising a conveying lane and belt lifter mounted to the feed-out mounting plates for selectively raising the conveying lane above the support structure and raising a conveyor belt above the conveying lane in a cleaning mode.

7. The conveyor frame of claim 4, further comprising a drive mounted between the feed-out mounting plates and a stopper-scraper assembly, the stopper-scraper assembly including a roller extending between two connecting plates mounted to the feed-out mounting plates, and a scraper assembly having a scraper blade mounted to the two connecting plates.

8. The conveyor frame of claim 7, wherein each connecting plate includes an upper hook for pivotably mounting the stopper-scraper assembly to a corresponding protrusion on the feed-out mounting plates.

9. The conveyor frame of claim 8, further comprising a latch for latching the stopper-scraper assembly to the feed-out mounting plates.

10. The conveyor frame of claim 9, wherein the latch includes a spring tab extending from a cylindrical cap housing an end of the roller.

11. The conveyor frame of claim 4, further comprising a feed-in roller mounted to the feed-in mounting plate, the feed-in roller comprising a contoured roller portion enclosing a shaft stem, the shaft stem extending from a first end to a second end.

12. The conveyor frame of claim 1, wherein the support structure further comprises a return lane roller mount, and the conveyor frame further comprises a return lane roller mounted in the return lane roller mount.

13. The conveyor frame of claim 12, wherein the return lane roller comprises a shaft stem extending from a first end to a second end, and an injection molded plastic portion enclosing the shaft stem and forming an enlarged portion for guiding a conveyor belt.

14. A method of monitoring a hollow conveyor frame for the food processing industry, the hollow conveyor frame comprising a plurality of hollow tubular sections connected together forming a support structure for a conveyor lane, the support structure having a hollow sealed interior and extending longitudinally from a feed-in end to a feed-out end, the method comprising: pulling a vacuum in the interior of the support structure of the hollow conveyor frame; sealing the support structure of the hollow conveyor frame using a sensor in communication with the interior; and sensing a pressure change in the interior using the sensor in communication with the interior; and activating an indicator that lights up when the seal is broken, wherein the pulling of the vacuum is sufficient to inhibit bacterial growth.

15. The method of claim 14, further comprising the step of adding a high concentration of ozone into the hollow conveyor frame after pulling the vacuum.

16. A hollow conveyor frame structure supporting a conveyor belt loop for use in the food processing industry, the hollow conveyor frame structure comprising: a plurality of hollow tubular sections connected together forming a support structure for a conveyor lane, the support structure having a hollow sealed interior and extending longitudinally from a feed-in end to a feed-out end, wherein the hollow sealed interior is pulled to a vacuum to have a lower pressure than ambient pressure such that the pressure differential is negative, wherein the negative pressure is sufficient to inhibit bacterial growth; and a sensor in communication with a sealed area for measuring pressure of the sealed area; wherein the sensor comprises a light emitting diode that lights up when pressure in the sealed area rises.

17. The hollow conveyor frame structure of claim 16, wherein the sensor is in communication with a receiver.

18. The hollow conveyor frame structure of claim 17, wherein the sensor is in wireless communication with a receiver.

19. The hollow conveyor frame structure of claim 16, wherein the sensor receives excitation power wirelessly.

20. The hollow conveyor frame structure of claim 16, wherein the sensor measures pressure decay over a period of time.

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