Chain links for product conveyor chains

Abstract

A link of a chain for an article conveyor. The link comprises a first link element and a second link element formed as separate connectable parts, the first link element being configured to support an article to be conveyed, and the second link element being adapted to support the first link element and allow the chain to move in the conveyor when in use. The link comprises an articulation region provided in the second link element for articulating the link to another link of the chain, the articulation region being adapted to insert therein an articulation element for articulating the link to another link of the chain along an insertion direction. The link comprises a limiting device provided in the first link element and adapted to confine the articulation element within the articulation region along the insertion direction when the first link element is coupled to the second link element, thereby preventing the articulation element from escaping from the articulation region along the insertion direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates generally to article conveyors and, more particularly, to a link for a chain of an article conveyor. Background Art

[0002] Article conveyors typically include a movable closed-loop support element adapted to support articles to be conveyed, and a drive element (e.g., a motor, pinion, and gears) for moving the support element along a predetermined path (thereby allowing the articles to be conveyed).

[0003] One very common type of conveyor utilizes a chain as a supporting element, which is typically configured to flex / bend upward and downward (e.g., to move around pinions and gears), and in some cases, curve right and left along the path. To achieve this, the chain typically comprises a series of links that are coupled to one another in such a way that each link can flex relative to adjacent links in response to the path flexure. Each link comprises a plate and a link body that supports the plate and allows coupling between adjacent links. The plates of the different links coupled to form the chain define a support surface for the items to be conveyed.

[0004] The connection between two adjacent chain links usually takes place by means of pins or other articulation elements which are inserted into through-holes provided in the articulation region of such chain links.

[0005] In prior art solutions, the hinge pins are inserted into the respective through holes along an insertion direction (which is generally orthogonal to the movement direction of the chain) and are essentially held in place in the respective through holes by friction or interference between the hinge pins and the inner walls of the respective through holes. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The Applicant has observed that prior art solutions for obtaining an articulation between adjacent links are unsatisfactory.

[0007] In particular, the applicant has noted that in order to ensure that the hinge pins continue to be inserted into the corresponding through-holes by friction, the through-holes and the hinge pins should have substantially the same size (i.e., the through-holes have an imperceptibly larger size relative to the size of the hinge pins). As a result, the hinge pin insertion / extraction operations into / from the through-holes are not easily performed manually, but rather require the use of specific tools (with corresponding increases in cost and processing time) and / or the application of significant force (which exposes the chain links to mechanical stresses that may cause structural damage).

[0008] Furthermore, the Applicant has also noted that in the prior art solutions, the friction between the hinge pins and the through-holes may decrease over time, for example due to material wear, as a result of the continuous friction between the hinge pins and the through-holes caused by the movement of the chain (specifically, during flexure / bending of the chain), so that even after a relatively short period of use of the chain, one or more hinge pins may come out of the corresponding through-holes along the insertion direction.

[0009] The Applicant has faced the above-mentioned problem and has proposed a solution for a chain link, in which the articulation pin is securely held in place in a through-hole in the articulation area of ​​the chain link by confining the articulation pin in the insertion direction in the corresponding through-hole, wherein the insertion and extraction of the articulation pin in the through-hole can therefore be carried out essentially without friction or with reduced friction.

[0010] In particular, the text of the claims is incorporated herein verbatim by reference (and any advantageous features provided in relation to a particular aspect of the invention apply mutatis mutandis to any other aspect of the invention).

[0011] More specifically, one aspect of the present invention relates to a link of a chain for an article conveyor. The link preferably comprises a first link element and a second link element formed as separate parts that can be connected. The first link element is preferably configured to support the article to be conveyed, while the second link element is preferably adapted to support the first link element and allow the chain to move in the conveyor when in use. The second link element preferably comprises an articulation area for articulating the link to another link of the chain, the articulation area preferably being adapted to insert the articulation element therein along an insertion direction. The first link element preferably comprises a limiting device, which is adapted to limit the articulation element within the articulation area along the insertion direction when the first link element is coupled to the second link element, thereby preventing the articulation element from escaping from the articulation area along the insertion direction.

[0012] The chain link preferably comprises a coupling device for coupling the first link element and the second link element to each other. The coupling device preferably comprises a first coupling element and a second coupling element, the first coupling element preferably being arranged in the limiting device, and the second coupling element preferably being arranged in the second link element and being adapted to be coupled to the first coupling element. The first coupling element and the second coupling element are preferably configured to lock with each other, in particular so as to achieve a coupling without articulated elements between the first link element and the second link element.

[0013] According to an embodiment of the invention, the first link element comprises a first surface adapted to support the object to be conveyed and a second surface opposite the first surface. The restriction device preferably comprises at least one wall extending from the second surface of the first link element towards the articulation area.

[0014] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the hinge region comprises at least one hollow portion adapted to receive the hinge element. The restriction device is preferably adapted to cover the at least one hollow portion, thereby preventing the hinge element therein from escaping along the insertion direction.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first link element and the second link element are coupled to each other in a reversible manner.

[0016] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the chain link, in particular the coupling device of the chain link, further comprises a snap-fit ​​coupling device for snap-fit ​​coupling the first link element and the second link element to each other.

[0017] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the snap-fit ​​connection device comprises a first connection element and a second connection element, wherein the first connection element is provided in the first link element, and the second connection element is provided in the second link element and is adapted to be snap-fitted to the first connection element.

[0018] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first coupling element is provided in a portion of the restriction device, and the second coupling element is provided in a portion of the articulation area.

[0019] According to one embodiment of the invention, the chain link further comprises positioning means adapted to align the first link element and the second link element with each other and for guiding the coupling of the first link element and the second link element.

[0020] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the positioning device comprises a first positioning element and a second positioning element, the first positioning element being arranged in the first link element, while the second positioning element being arranged in the second link element and being adapted to be coupled to the first positioning element. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] By way of non-limiting example only, one or more embodiments of the present invention, as well as other features and associated advantages, will be better understood by reading and referring to the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings (where corresponding elements are designated by the same or similar reference numerals and their description will not be repeated for the sake of brevity). In this regard, it should be expressly understood that the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale (wherein certain details may be exaggerated and / or simplified) and, unless otherwise indicated, are intended only to conceptually illustrate the structures and processes described. Specifically:

[0022] Figure 1A A perspective view showing a portion of a chain for an article conveyor according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 1B shows an embodiment of the present invention Figure 1Aan exploded perspective view of a link of the chain shown;

[0024] Figure 1C 1G shows the various installation stages according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1A a perspective view of a portion of the chain shown;

[0025] Figure 2A A top perspective view showing a portion of a chain for an article conveyor according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 2B shows an embodiment of the present invention Figure 2A an exploded perspective view of a link of the chain shown;

[0027] Figure 2C -2G shows the various installation stages according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2A a perspective view of a portion of the chain shown;

[0028] Figure 2H The bending state of the embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 2A a top view of a portion of the chain shown;

[0029] Figure 3A A perspective view showing a portion of a chain for an article conveyor according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 3B shows an embodiment of the present invention Figure 3A an exploded perspective view of a link of the chain; and

[0031] Figure 3C -3G shows the various installation stages according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3A A perspective view of a portion of a chain. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] refer to Figure 1A , which shows a perspective view of a chain 100 (ie, a portion thereof) for an article conveyor according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] The article conveyor (not shown) may be an article conveyor for industrial or residential use. Without limiting the present invention, an article conveyor will be briefly discussed if necessary by referring to functional elements considered relevant to understanding the present invention.

[0034] Hereinafter, directional terms associated with the chain 100 and its components (e.g., top, bottom, upper, lower, side, center, longitudinal, lateral, vertical, left, and right) will be used relative to their orientation in the drawings and will not indicate any particular direction (of the various directions) in which they are to be used. Instead, the term "substantially" will be used instead to account for (desirable or undesirable) manufacturing tolerances.

[0035] The chain 100 is designed to be able to flex / bend upward and downward relative to the vertical direction Y, thereby moving (e.g., around a pinion and cogwheel (not shown) of the article conveyor) along a predetermined path of the article conveyor (e.g., along a generally upper front section and a generally lower return section that is preferably complementary to the front section). In this regard, it should be noted that the chain 100 is in a running orientation (left side of the figure) and in an upside-down orientation (right side of the figure). Figure 1A , its running orientation may be, for example, the orientation that the chain 100 adopts along the front section of the conveying path (which allows conveying articles), and its upside-down orientation may be, for example, the orientation that the chain 100 adopts along the return section of the conveying path.

[0036] The chain 100 includes a plurality of links 105 i (Only three of them are shown in the figure), these chain links generally determine the (for example upper) bearing surface of the chain 100 for the transport of the articles (the bearing surface is for example orthogonal to the vertical direction Y): the bearing surface is for example composed of Figure 1A The exposed surface in the left picture is formed.

[0037] In the exemplary but non-limiting embodiment shown, the chain 100 includes aligned sequential links 105 that are articulated together. i , each link 105 i (Except the first and last links of the chain 100) is hinged to the next (adjacent) link 105 along the longitudinal direction X perpendicular to the vertical direction Y. i+1 and articulated to the (adjacent) previous link 105 i-1 (And such a structure can be replicated infinitely, thus obtaining a chain 100 of any desired length.) The longitudinal direction X may for example identify the direction of movement of the chain 100 in use (in a curve of the conveying path, the longitudinal direction X is for example identified as the direction tangential to the curve).

[0038] Link 105 iPreferably, they are identical to one another, so that the same reference numerals will be used hereinafter to denote identical components of different links. Furthermore, for the sake of simplicity, in the following description, reference numerals denoting identical components of different links will not include the distinction by means of the above-mentioned subscripts i, i-1, i+1, because it is assumed that a universal link 105 is involved. i Any features of a component of any other link are also valid for the same component of any other link; when it is necessary to refer to a component belonging to a specific link, this attribution will be clearly indicated. i Reference to any link of the chain 100 (including adjacent links 105) will be understood as i-1 , 105 i+1 ), unless the discussion of certain functions requires explicit description of such links 105 i relative to its adjacent links (in which case this positional relationship will be explicitly indicated, for example by comparing the link 105i to the preceding link 105 i-1 and / or the next link 105 i+1 distinguished).

[0039] In the following, for the sake of convenience, Figure 1A will with Figure 1B Combined discussion, Figure 1B The link 105i of the chain 100 is shown in exploded perspective views in a running orientation (left side view) and in an upside-down orientation (right side view), and Figure 1A will with Figure 1C -1G combined with the discussion, Figure 1C -1G shows a chain 100 (particularly two of its links, such as link 105 i and the next link 105 i+1 ) in various stages of installation.

[0040] As shown in the figure, each link 105 i There is a first link element (a plate in the example shown) 110 to support the articles to be conveyed, and a second link element (a link body in the example shown) 115, preferably reversibly (or releasably) coupled to the plate 110 to support the plate 110 and allow movement of the chain 100. In the illustrative (but non-limiting) embodiment shown, the (e.g., upper) surface of the plate 110 (which is generally exposed in the front section of the conveying path of the article conveyor) represents the majority of the supporting surface of the corresponding link 105.

[0041] The plate 110 and the link body 115 are preferably made of a plastic material. This allows obtaining a plate and a link body, as will be assumed in the present invention and in the embodiments discussed below, each having parts / elements made in a single piece; this should not be interpreted as limiting in any way, as similar considerations also apply to the case where these parts / elements (or at least some of them) are manufactured separately and fixed to each other at a later stage.

[0042] More preferably, the plate 110 and the link body 115 are made of different plastic materials, and even more preferably, are made of plastic materials that exhibit different mechanical and physical properties (as will be appreciated from the advantages obtained by the present invention).

[0043] like Figure 1C As shown in FIG1F, each link 105 is connected to the longitudinal direction X and the vertical direction Y by means of a corresponding pin or other articulation element 120 (for example, arranged along a transverse direction Z orthogonal to the longitudinal direction X and the vertical direction Y). i And is suitable for being hinged to the chain link 105 adjacent thereto i-1 , 105 i+1 (ie, hinged to the next link 105 i+1 and / or articulated to the previous link 105 i-1 ). In this way, each link 105 corresponds to the deflection of the conveying path. i Able to be moved relative to adjacent links 105 due to relative rotation about corresponding hinge pins 120 i-1 , 105 i+1 Deflection (in the vertical direction Y).

[0044] The hinge pin 120 is preferably made of a metal material, however, this should not be construed as limiting, as the material of the hinge pin 120 may also be selected based on the characteristics of the material of the link body (preferably, its articulation region, as described below), for example, in order to provide certain characteristics of mutual fluency. Furthermore, although cylindrical or substantially cylindrical pins are shown in the figures, the principles of the present invention are equally applicable to other articulation elements, regardless of their shape and / or size.

[0045] Preferably, as shown, each link 105 i The link body 115 includes articulation areas that are used to connect the link 105 i Articulated to the next link 105 i+1 and / or articulated to the previous link 105 i-1 More preferably, each link 105 i The link body 115 includes a i Articulated to the next link 105 i+1The first articulation region 125 (hereinafter referred to as the front articulation region) and the first articulation region 125 for connecting the link 105 i Articulated to the previous link 105 i-1 Even more preferably, each link 105 i The front articulation region 125 is adapted to receive the corresponding rear link 105 i+1 The rear articulation region 130 and the links 105 are properly aligned along the transverse direction Z. i The front articulation region 125 and the corresponding rear link 105 i+1 The rear articulation region 130 of the chain link 10 is capable of simultaneously receiving the same articulation pin 120 (to achieve articulation between the links), as discussed in more detail below.

[0046] In the exemplary embodiment shown, each link 105 i The link body 115 has a substantially fork-like shape, wherein the two fork-like portions 115 A1 , 115 A2 The fork 115 extends substantially longitudinally (ie, substantially along the longitudinal direction X), and the connecting fork extends substantially transversely (ie, substantially along the transverse direction Z), which connects the fork 115 A1 , 115 A2 Connect to the corresponding end portion (hereinafter referred to as the connection end).

[0047] Each connection end advantageously has one or more hollows (eg corresponding holes, preferably corresponding through holes) 130 H1 , 130 H2 , connecting the fork, the connecting end and the corresponding through hole 130 H1 , 130 H2 Preferably, as shown, the rear hinge region 130 (and in particular the connecting fork and the connecting end) has a substantially flat upper surface AS. 130 As will be explained below, the upper surface AS 130 It is helpful to form a supporting surface for the chain 100. Upper surface AS 130 has a substantially U-shaped profile; in particular, the upper surface AS of the rear hinge region 130, excluding the recesses of the arms defining the U-shaped profile, 130 It has a substantially rectangular shape; as will be described below, this recess is advantageously useful for the coupling between the plate 110 and the link body 115 .

[0048] Preferably, the fork 115 A1 , 115 A2The free end (opposite to the corresponding connection end) has one or more hollow portions (eg, corresponding holes, preferably corresponding through holes) 125 H1 , 125 H2 , fork 115 A1 , 115 A2 The free end and the corresponding through hole 125 H1 , 125 H2 Preferably as the front hinge area 125. In addition, the fork 115 A1 , 115 A2 Preferably the shape is designed so that, relative to the lateral distance between the connection ends (and therefore relative to the length of the connection fork), the respective free ends have a greater lateral distance (ie in the transverse direction Z): in this way, as Figure 1A (right image) and Figure 1C As shown in -1D, each link 105 i The front articulation region 125 is adapted to receive the corresponding rear link 105 i+1 The rear hinge area 130 and the corresponding through holes 125 aligned with each other along the transverse direction Z H1 , 125 H2 , 130 H1 , 130 H2 Suitable for receiving the same hinge pin 120 along the transverse direction Z (the transverse direction Z therefore also identifies the insertion direction as well as the extraction direction of the hinge pin 120), so that the chain link 105 is obtained i The link body 115 and the next link 105 i+1 The articulation between the link bodies 115 (as in Figure 1C and Figure 1D shown by way of example in the ).

[0049] Preferably, the through hole 125 H1 , 125 H2 , 130 H1 , 130 H2 The through holes 125 have a shape that corresponds to the shape of the hinge pin 120 that they are intended to receive. In the exemplary embodiment where the hinge pin 120 has a cylindrical or substantially cylindrical shape, the through holes 125 H1 , 125 H2 , 130 H1 , 130 H2 Advantageously, the through hole 125 is smaller than the diameter of the hinge pin 120. H1 , 125 H2 , 130 H1 , 130 H2is sized sufficiently large to allow the hinge pin 120 to pass through the through hole 125 substantially frictionlessly or with reduced friction (as discussed in more detail below). H1 , 125 H2 , 130 H1 , 130 H2 But small enough to constrain each link 105 i Rotation about a fixed axis of rotation identified by a corresponding hinge pin 120 (the presence of a fixed axis of rotation allows each link 105 to i Flexure relative to adjacent links 105 i-1 , 105 i+1 and there is no misalignment).

[0050] Preferably, as shown, the front hinge region 125 is located at the fork 115. A1 , 115 A2 The free end of the 125,A1 、AS 125,A2 As will be explained below, the upper surface AS 125,A1 、AS 125,A2 It is beneficial to form a supporting surface for the chain 100. More preferably, each upper surface AS 125,A1 、AS 125,A2 has a substantially rectangular shape. Still more preferably, each upper surface AS 125,A1 、AS 125,A2 has a certain shape, which substantially corresponds to the upper surface AS of the rear hinge area 130 130 The shape of the arms of the U-shaped profile (in this way, as will be explained below, the chain link 105 i The upper surface AS of the front hinge area 125 125,A1 、AS 125,A2 Close to the next link 105 i+1 The upper surface AS of the rear hinge area 130 130 placed, which defines a substantially continuous surface - ie, without steps - which helps form a bearing surface for the chain 100).

[0051] Advantageously, as shown, the upper surface AS is larger than the upper surface of the plate 110. 125,A1 、AS 125,A2 has much smaller dimensions so that in use the upper surface of the plate 110 is primarily in contact with the product being conveyed (thereby minimizing instabilities in the conveyed product which would otherwise be caused by the upper surface AS). 125,A1 、AS 125,A2 、AS 130There is an inevitable, though minimal, discontinuity between the upper surface and / or between such upper surface and the upper surface of the plate 110. ) In addition, the link body 115 is designed so that the upper surface AS 125,A1 、AS 125,A2 、AS 130 Exposing (albeit advantageously in minimal dimensions) the lower parts of the front articulation area 125 and the rear articulation area 130, instead of arranging them so that they are also completely covered by the upper surface of the plate 110, allows obtaining a chain 100 with improved mechanical characteristics; in fact, the lower parts of the front articulation area 125 and the rear articulation area 130 would define a removal of material from them, which would compromise the mechanical strength of the chain 100.

[0052] As in Figure 1A As can be better seen in FIG, when the link body 115 and the corresponding plate 110 are coupled together (this coupling will be discussed in more detail below), the link body 115 extends generally in the vertical direction Y below (or above, when the return section is taken as a reference) the corresponding plate 110 (i.e., extends from a lower surface opposite to the supporting surface or upper surface): the lower surface is formed by, for example Figure 1A In this way, when the chain link 105 i Articulated to the next link 105 i+1 When the link 105 i The link body 115 (ie, the fork portion 115 A1 , 115 A2 and corresponding connecting fork), the chain link 105 i Plate 110 and the next link 105 i+1 The rear articulation region 130 of the link body 115 delimits, along the longitudinal direction X, the vertical direction Y and the transverse direction Z, a mounting region for mounting thereon pinions and gears allowing the chain 100 to move.

[0053] As previously mentioned, each link body 115 is capable of supporting a corresponding plate 110, and this supporting function can be achieved, for example, by resting the plate 110 on the fork 115. A1 , 115 A2 Additionally or alternatively, as shown, each link body 115 includes a support element, or more support elements, to support the plate from below. Preferably, the support element is a crosspiece 115 T In the form of a fork 115 A1 , 115 A2 The space between them extends along the transverse direction Z, preferably corresponding to the front hinge area 125.

[0054] As can be seen in the figures, each plate 110 comprises a restraining device adapted to be engaged with the corresponding link 105.i The associated hinge pin 120 is confined or housed within the front hinge region 125 (and thus within the rear link 105). i+1 130 ), thus preventing the hinge pin 120 from coming out (and thus jeopardizing the articulation between the links).

[0055] Due to the limiting / accommodating means, it is possible to prevent the hinge pin 120 from moving out of the corresponding through hole 125 along the transverse direction Z. H1 , 125 H2 , 130 H1 , 130 H2 come out.

[0056] Therefore, due to the restriction / accommodation means, the diameter of the hinge pin 120 is larger than that of the through hole 125 through which the hinge pin 120 is inserted. H1 , 125 H2 , 130 H1 , 130 H2 It can be formed with a diameter of sufficiently large dimensions to allow the hinge pin 120 to be inserted and withdrawn substantially without friction or with reduced (low) friction (i.e., by sliding easily and manually, without the need for any special tools and / or without or with reduced applied force); in fact, in contrast to existing solutions in which the hinge pin is held in position in the through-hole only by friction (thus requiring a through-hole with a diameter much larger than that of the hinge pin and therefore requiring special tools and / or the application of a large force to allow its insertion and withdrawal), the present invention allows obtaining a hinge pin 120 that can slide freely or with reduced (or moderate) friction through the through-hole 125. H1 , 125 H2 , 130 H1 , 130 H2 , while ensuring that the hinge pin 120 is restricted in such a through hole 125 along the transverse direction Z (hereinafter, transverse or lateral restriction) H1 , 125 H2 , 130 H1 , 130 H2 Inside.

[0057] Advantageously, the presence of reduced (or moderate) friction allows a very large number of link bodies to be firmly articulated to one another without the risk of the articulation pins coming out, thereby obtaining a pre-assembled basic structure that can be easily stored (for example, it can be easily wrapped) and transported, which can be completed at a later stage by installing the required plates 110 (to obtain the corresponding chain).

[0058] More advantageously, this reduced (or moderate) friction occurs primarily between the articulation pin 120 and the front articulation region 125, and the rear articulation region 130 can alternatively be shaped in such a manner as to define a mechanical clearance suitable for allowing free articulation movement while wrapping around the pinion.

[0059] As a mere quantitative example, such reduced (or moderate) friction may give rise to an interference between the hinge pin 120 and (at least) the front hinge region 125, which interference generally produces a resistance to axial extraction of the hinge pin 120 (i.e. in the transverse direction Z) equal to approximately 3 kg-5 kg; whereas, in prior art solutions, the hinge pin is held in place within the through-hole only by friction, the interference between the hinge pin and the corresponding through-hole typically producing a resistance to axial extraction of the hinge pin equal to approximately 25 kg-80 kg (in order to ensure that the hinge pin is securely held in place even in the event of impacts, lubricant penetration, high axial stresses and temperature excursions).

[0060] It should also be noted that the principles of the present invention can also be applied to the aforementioned prior art solutions in which the articulation pin is held in the through-hole solely by friction; in fact, in these solutions the friction between the articulation pin and the through-hole may decrease over time (e.g. due to material wear caused by the continuous friction between the articulation pin and the through-hole, material wear being due to the movement of the chain in particular during flexure / bending of the chain), so that even for such solutions the lateral limitation according to the principles of the present invention offers substantial advantages.

[0061] As in Figure 1A 、 Figure 1B (right side of the figure) and Figure 1E As can be seen in FIG. 1G, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the restriction device includes a wall (eg, two walls 110 F1 , 110 F2 , each wall is preferably connected to a corresponding through hole 125 H1 , 125 H2 125 (or in an alternative embodiment of the invention, referred to hereinafter, towards the rear hinge region 130). F1 , 110 F2 The extent of extension along the vertical direction Y is such that when the plate 110 is coupled to the corresponding link body 115, each wall 110 F1 , 110 F2 Covering the corresponding through hole 125 of the corresponding front hinge area 125 H1 ,125 H2(Specifically, its opening, hereinafter the external opening, which faces the outside of the link 115 ): the vertical direction Y therefore also represents the limiting direction of the limiting means.

[0062] In the exemplary embodiment, since the wall 110 F1 , 110 F2 With through hole 125 H1 , 125 H2 The shape of the external openings substantially corresponds to the shape of the fins 110, so they are hereinafter indicated as fins 110. F1 , 110 F2 (Thereby distinguishing them from the walls of subsequent embodiments which have greater F1 , 110 F2 The extension of the rib is much greater than the extension along the longitudinal direction X. )

[0063] Preferably, the fins 110 F1 , 110 F2 Made of plastic material, more preferably they are made in one piece with the corresponding plate 110 (for example by injection molding techniques). Even more preferably, the fins 110 F1 , 110 F2 Made of a plastic material that is sufficiently rigid to allow hinge pin 120 to be restrained without deformation, and sufficiently resilient to allow for transient deformation of hinge pin 120 (e.g., to allow coupling and decoupling between plate 110 and link body 115, as described below).

[0064] Fin 110 F1 , 110 F2 The position of through hole 125 H1 , 125 H2 The outer openings of the hinge pins 120 are substantially flush (or overlap), which is essentially due to the fact that in the exemplary embodiment considered, the length of the hinge pin 120 is less than the length of the through hole 125. H1 , 125 H2 The distance between the external openings (therefore, once inserted into the through hole 125 H1 , 125 H2 , 130 H1 , 130 H2 , the hinge pin 120 would not protrude from these external openings). However, this should not be construed as limiting, as hinge pins of any length may also be provided: for example, consider an example embodiment not shown in which the hinge pin is longer than the through hole 125. H1 , 125 H2The distance between the external openings of the fins can be provided at a distance in the transverse direction Z corresponding to the length of the hinge pin (so that the fins are very close to the end of the corresponding hinge pin, rather than to the through hole 125). H1 , 125 H2 Furthermore, according to a further embodiment of the invention (not shown), the distance between the fins in the transverse direction Z can be manually adjusted in a dynamic manner (by providing, for example, one or more guides on the lower surface of the plate, in which the fins can slide).

[0065] As previously mentioned, plate 110 and link body 115 may be coupled together in a reversible (or releasable) manner.

[0066] According to one embodiment of the present invention, this relatively stable and reversible connection is achieved by the connection elements provided in the plate 110 and the connection elements provided in the link body 115 in the form of snap-fit ​​connection elements and / or devices (or snap-fit ​​fitting elements and / or devices).

[0067] Preferably, as in Figure 1B As can be seen in FIG, such a snap-fit ​​coupling element comprises one or more protrusions preferably provided in the plate 110 and adapted to snap-fit ​​into one or more hollows preferably provided in the link body 115. More preferably, such a snap-fit ​​coupling element comprises two protrusions 1351, 1352, each of the protrusions 1351, 1352 being adapted to snap-fit ​​into a corresponding hollow 1401, 1402. Even more preferably, each protrusion 1351, 1352 has a substantially wedge-shaped shape, for example with a protrusion that gradually increases from the bottom upwards along the vertical direction Y (cf. Figure 1B In this manner, by sliding the plate 110 on the link body 105 from top to bottom (e.g., Figures 1E-1G In the manner shown, which will be better discussed below), the protrusions 1351, 1352 gradually pass inside the hollows 1401, 1402 until it snaps into place therein. Thus, the plate 110, which is provided as a first link element, is directly coupled to the link body 115, which is provided as a second link element. In particular, the first link and the second link element are not indirectly coupled via an articulation element. The two protrusions 1351, 1352 provided on the plate 110 as first coupling elements engage with the two hollows 1401, 1402 provided in the link body 115 as second coupling elements, so that a direct coupling is achieved between them. As a result, a construction that is relatively easy to assemble and / or disassemble can be provided, which can, for example, result in shorter downtimes for maintenance and / or parts replacement. The hinge pin 120 is not part of the coupling element, so that the coupling between the plate 110 and the link body 115 is independent of the through hole 125H1 , 125 H2 The plate 110 and the link body 115 are not coupled via the hinge pin 120, which makes coupling (and uncoupling) operations (e.g., replacement due to breakage or wear) easier. In fact, the hinge pin 120 does not obstruct or interfere with the coupling element, and thus coupling (and uncoupling) operations can be performed without handling the hinge pin 120.

[0068] Advantageously, the links 105 can be conveniently stored in the assembled state without requiring the hinge pin 120 as a coupling means and / or element. This makes the storage of the plates 110 and the link bodies 115 easier and more efficient. In fact, the arrangement of the plates 110 mounted (and locked) on the respective link bodies 115 allows for orderly storage of the links; moreover, the through-holes 125 are secured by the limiting means when coupling between the plates 110 and the link bodies 115. H1 , 125 H2 The covering can be avoided when no hinge pin 120 is fitted into the through hole 125 H1 , 125 H2 Dust, dirt or other undesirable substances enter the through hole 125 H1 , 125 H2 , thereby allowing the links to be stored for a relatively long period of use.

[0069] In the exemplary embodiment, two protrusions 1351, 1352 are each provided on the corresponding fin 110. F1 , 110 F2 Middle, fin 110 F1 , 110 F2 is provided as a restriction device, which will be described in more detail below.

[0070] Preferably, as shown, in the corresponding through hole 125 H1 , 125 H2 The hollow parts 1401 and 1402 are provided at the external openings of the fins 110. F1 , 110 F2 Protrusions 1351, 1352 are provided, each of which is formed on a plate with a corresponding heat sink 110. F1 , 110 F2 These corresponding fins 110 F1 , 110 F2 Provide corresponding through hole 125 H1 , 125 H2 The covering portion can prevent dust, dirt and / or other undesirable substances from accumulating in the through hole 125. H1 , 125 H2It is particularly advantageous to connect the protrusions 1351, 1352 with the fins 110 F1 , 110 F2 By providing the coupling element in the restraining device, the structural rigidity of both the restraining device and the coupling element can be improved while reducing the number of protrusions in the plate 110. Consequently, the reduced number of protrusions in the plate 110 can increase the structural strength of the plate 110, lead to easier and cheaper manufacturing of the plate 110, and make the plate 110 less prone to accumulation of, for example, dust, dirt, etc.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the coupling between the plate 110 and the link body 115 is performed by coupling between one or more coupling elements as coupling means provided on the plate 110 and one or more coupling elements as coupling means provided in the link body 115 .

[0072] According to one embodiment, the coupling elements provided in the plate 110 and the coupling elements provided in the link body 115 are configured to lock to each other, preferably in a reversible (or releasable) manner.

[0073] The locking between one or more coupling elements provided in the plate 110 and one or more coupling elements provided in the link body 115 allows a direct coupling between the plate 110 and the coupling body 115 that is inherently stable to be obtained, i.e., the plate 110 and the link body 115 can be stably coupled to each other without the need for additional elements outside the plate 110 and the link body 115.

[0074] According to one embodiment, Figure 1B As shown, the hollow parts 1401 and 1402 are arranged along the vertical direction Y in the corresponding through holes 125. H1 , 125 H2 Above (reference Figure 1B The protrusions 1351, 1352 are oriented as shown in the left figure of the corresponding fin 110. F1 , 110 F2 The fin 110 is provided F1 , 110 F2 The upper area of ​​the inner surface (reference Figure 1B In the orientation shown in the left figure of FIG. 1 , they face the through hole 125 in use. H1 , 125 H2 external opening.

[0075] In this manner, by sliding the plate 110 on the link body 105 downward from the top (e.g., Figure 1E -1G), the protrusions 1351, 1352 (due to the corresponding fins 110 F1 , 110 F2The above elastic deformation caused by the stress of sliding) gradually passes into the hollow parts 1401, 1402 until it is completely inserted therein (therefore, when the stress is eliminated, the fin 110 tends to elastically restore its original shape F1 , 110 F2 The projections 1351, 1352 are pushed against the corresponding hollows 1401, 1402, thus obtaining a snap-fit ​​engagement which prevents the projections 1351, 1352 from being withdrawn by a simple reverse sliding motion). In the exemplary embodiment shown, in order to allow the plate 110 and the link body 105 to be disconnected, it is possible to remove the plate 110 from the bottom upwards (refer to FIG. Figure 1B The orientation shown in the left figure of FIG) exerts a vertical force on the plate 110; such vertical force in turn causes the plate 110 to flex, which allows the fin 110 F1 , 110 F2 The distance between them increases instantaneously and simultaneously, thereby achieving the separation of the protrusions 1351 , 1352 from the corresponding hollow parts 1401 , 1402 .

[0076] Thus, the interaction between protrusions 1351 , 1352 and hollow portions 1401 , 1402 allows plate 110 and link body 115 to be coupled to one another in a stable and reversible manner.

[0077] Furthermore, due to the presence, location, and shape of protrusions 1351, 1352, disengagement of protrusions 1351, 1352 from respective hollow portions 1401, 1402 (or, generally, decoupling of plate 110 from link body 115) can be achieved by flexing the ends of plate 110 upward (see FIG. Figure 1B Thus, disengagement of protrusions 1351, 1352 from corresponding hollow portions 1401, 1402 (or, more generally, disconnection of plate 110 from link body 115) can be performed manually (i.e., without the need for any tools or machinery) and at essentially any location or region along the conveyor path. In this way, accessibility to the articulated elements and / or couplings can be further improved.

[0078] Although in the present and subsequent embodiments, the connection between the plate and the link body is made in correspondence with the front articulation region, this should not be construed as limiting. In fact, implementations (not shown, but applicable to the present and subsequent embodiments in question) can be provided in which the connection is made in correspondence with the rear articulation region, or in the region between the front and rear articulation regions of the link body (along the longitudinal direction X), and the positioning of the protrusions (or other similar coupling elements provided in the plate) coincides with the positioning of the hollows (or other similar coupling elements provided in the link body), which can thus differ from that shown.

[0079] In addition, although in this embodiment and the following embodiments, the protrusion and the hollow portion are preferably provided in the plate and the link body, respectively, this should not be construed as limiting. In fact, an embodiment (not shown, but applicable to this embodiment and the following embodiments in question) can be provided in which the protrusion (or other similar coupling element) is provided in the link body, while the hollow portion (or other similar coupling element) is provided in the plate.

[0080] The possibility to easily and reversibly couple the plate 110 and the link body 115 (ie the possibility to form the plate 110 and the link body 115 as separate parts that can be reversibly coupled) allows a wide variety of customizations to be obtained.

[0081] For example, the link body 115 and the plate 110 can be made of different (preferably plastic) materials. Advantageously, the link body 115 can be made of a material having high mechanical properties (e.g., high mechanical strength), while the plate 110 can be made of a material having high physical properties (e.g., low friction and / or high wear resistance) and low cost; in fact, there is no material on the market that has both high mechanical and high physical properties and is also affordable (thus, prior art chains formed in a single piece are usually made of unique and expensive materials that at least meet the requirements for high mechanical properties).

[0082] In addition, the possibility of simply and reversibly coupling the plates 110 to the link bodies 115 allows the chain 100 to be adapted to the items to be conveyed (since the plates can be replaced by plates of different sizes, shapes and / or materials). Moreover, as discussed above, the presence of reduced (or moderate) friction makes it possible to firmly articulate a large number of link bodies to one another, thus obtaining a preassembled infrastructure that can be easily stored and transported, and the possibility of easily coupling the plates 110 and link bodies 115 to one another allows this preassembled infrastructure to be completed by subsequently efficiently installing the desired plates 110 (i.e., with limited assembly time and costs).

[0083] Preferably, as shown in the figures, the plate 110 has a substantially rectangular shape in plan view, except for the appendage 145 and the recess 150, which are preferably provided on the sides of the plate 110 that, in use (i.e., when the plate 110 and the link body 115 are coupled to each other), face the rear articulation region 130 and the front articulation region 125, respectively (thus, these sides will also be referred to as the rear side and the front side, respectively, hereinafter). In any case, as will be understood, in embodiments of the invention (not shown), the appendage 145 and / or the recess 150 may also be omitted, for example by providing alternative technical means that have been designed to achieve a similar purpose as the appendage 145 and / or the recess 150.

[0084] The attachment 145 is advantageously provided to serve as an alignment / positioning device and a fulcrum for coupling the plate 110 to the corresponding link body 115 .

[0085] The attachment 145 preferably includes an upper surface AS 145 , the upper surface AS 145 Typically exposed in a front section of the conveying path of the article conveyor (and when the plate 110 and link body 115 are coupled together as discussed below, the upper surface AS 145 Forming a part of the bearing surface of the chain 100, preferably a negligible part): similar to the upper surface AS 125,A1 、AS 125,A2 、AS 130 As discussed, the upper surface AS of the attachment 145 145 Advantageously, it has dimensions that are significantly reduced relative to those of the upper surface of the plate 110, so that, in use, it is primarily the upper surface of the plate 110 that comes into contact with the product being conveyed (thus, the upper surface AS is substantially the same as the upper surface AS). 125,A1 、AS 125,A2 、AS 130 、AS 145,A1 The inevitable discontinuities, however minimal, between these upper surfaces and / or between these upper surfaces and the upper surface of the plate 110 minimize possible instabilities of the conveyed product).

[0086] Preferably, as shown, the attachment 145 also includes a tongue-shaped portion 145 T (Preferably formed on the upper surface AS of the attachment 145 along the vertical direction Y 145 below and protrudes in the longitudinal direction X beyond the upper surface AS of the attachment 145 145 ); the tongue-shaped portion 145 T Advantageously adapted to be inserted into a seat (not visible) of the rear hinge area 130, thus by placing the tongue-shaped portion 145 T Inserted into the seat and the plate 110 is pushed downwards, the plate 110 is rotationally guided upwards towards the link body 115 (having the tongue-shaped portion 145 serving as a fulcrum) until the engagement of the protrusions 1351, 1352 with the corresponding hollows 1401, 1402 (as shown in FIG. Figure 1F and Figure 1G As shown), and therefore, until the plate 110 rests on the corresponding cross member 115 T Up till (cross bar 115 T The seats in the and rear hinge areas 130 thus support the plate 110 at its front and rear sides, respectively).

[0087] As in Figure 1F and 1GAs can be seen in FIG, once the plate 110 is coupled to the link body 115, the link 105 i The upper surface of the attachment 145 AS 145 Assemble to the same link 105 i The upper surface AS of the rear hinge area 130 130 The recess of the chain link 105 i The upper surface AS of the front hinge area 125 125,A1 、AS 125,A2 With the next link 105 i+1 The upper surface AS of the rear hinge area 130 130 And with the next link 105 i+1 The upper surface AS of the attachment 145 of the plate 110 145 defines a substantially continuous surface. Thus, link 105 i The upper surface of the plate 110 (including the upper surface AS of its attachment 145) 145 ), the last link 105 i+1 The upper surface AS of the rear hinge area 130 130 、Link 105 i The upper surface AS of the front hinge area 125 125,A1 、AS 125,A2 , the last link 105 i The upper surface AS of the rear hinge area 130 130 and the next link 105 i+1 The upper surface AS of the attachment 145 of the plate 110 145 Determine a substantially continuous surface that forms a connection with the link 105 i A portion of the bearing surface of the associated chain 100 (although as discussed above, the upper surface AS 125,A1 、AS 125,A2 、AS 130 、AS 145 The size of the plate 110 is advantageously minimized during the design phase relative to the size of the upper surface of the plate 110).

[0088] Now refer to Figure 2A , which shows a top perspective view of a chain 200 (ie, a portion thereof) for an article conveyor according to another embodiment of the present invention. In the following, for ease of description, Figure 2A will with Figure 2B Combined discussion, Figure 2B The link 205 of the chain 200 is shown i in an exploded perspective view in a running orientation (left side view) and in an upside-down orientation (right side view), and Figure 2A will with Figure 2C -2G combined with the discussion, Figure 2C- 2G shows a perspective view of the chain 200 at various stages of installation, and Figure 2A will with Figure 2H Combined discussion, Figure 2H A top view of the chain 200 is shown in a curved state.

[0089] Hereinafter, the chain 200 and / or the chain links 205 will be denoted by similar reference numerals. i corresponds to the chain 100 and / or the chain link 105 i and their descriptions will be simplified or omitted for the sake of brevity. Figure 2A In FIG. 1 , the chain 200 is rotated 180° relative to the chain 100 in the XZ plane, so that some components of the chain 200 and the chain 100 are in positions opposite to each other.

[0090] In the same manner as discussed above, each link 205 i The chain 200 has a first link element (a plate in the example shown) 210 that supports the item to be conveyed and a second link element (a link body in the example shown) 215 that is preferably reversibly coupled to the plate 210 to support the plate 210 and allow movement of the chain 200, wherein each link 205 i Suitable for being articulated to its adjacent link 205 by means of a corresponding articulation pin 220 (eg in the transverse direction Z) i-1 , 205 i+1 (ie, hinged to the next link 205 i+1 and / or the previous link 205 i-1 ).

[0091] Preferably, as shown, each link 205 i The link body 215 includes a i Articulated to the next link 205 i+1 The front articulation area 225 and the link 205 i Articulated to the previous link 205 i-1 Similar to the previously discussed, each link 205 i The front articulation region 225 is preferably adapted to accommodate the corresponding rear link 205 i+1 The rear articulation region 230 and the links 205 are properly aligned along the transverse direction Z. i The front articulation region 225 and the corresponding rear link 205 i+1 The rear articulation region 230 is preferably designed to simultaneously receive the same articulation pin 220 (to achieve articulation between the links).

[0092] In the exemplary embodiment shown, the link 205 i The link body 215 is similar to the link 105 i The link body 115, ie, it has a substantially fork-shaped shape with two substantially longitudinal forks 215 A1 , 215 A2 and the fork 215 A1 , 215 A2 A substantially transverse connection portion connected to a corresponding connection end.

[0093] In addition, similar to link 105 i Chain link body 115, chain link 205 i The link body 215 has a through hole 230 H1 , 230 H2 (or more) or other hollow parts, each through hole 230 H1 , 230 H2 Advantageously, the connection is arranged at the corresponding connection end (connection fork, connection end and corresponding through hole 230 H1 , 230 H2 Preferably used as rear hinge area 230), and through hole 225 H1 , 225 H2 (or more) or other hollow parts, each through hole 225 H1 , 225 H2 Advantageously, the fork 215 is provided A1 , 215 A2 The free end (fork 215 A1 , 215 A2 The free end and the corresponding through hole 225 H1 , 225 H2 Preferably used as front hinge area 225).

[0094] Unlike the previous embodiment, the through hole 230 of the rear hinge area 230 H1 , 230 H2 Advantageously, the through hole 230 is in the form of an elongated hole (or slot). More advantageously, the through hole 230 H1 , 230 H2 Elongated along the longitudinal direction X: In this way, when the hinge pin 220 (advantageously having a cylindrical shape) is inserted into the through hole 225 H1 , 225 H2 , 230 H1 , 230 H2 When the mechanical clearance is between the hinge pin 220 and the through hole 230 H1 , 230 H2 formed between, which allows each link 205 i With respect to the adjacent link 205i-1 , 205 i+1 Rotation along the rotation plane XZ - wherein the degree of this rotation can advantageously be determined according to the through hole 230 H1 , 230 H2 The length along the longitudinal direction X is selected. In this way, in contrast to the chain 100 of the previous embodiment, the chain 200 can be bent (to the right and to the left) on the plane of rotation XZ, as shown Figure 2H As shown, this is due to the relative movement between the link body 115 and the hinge pin 220, which is caused by the hinge pin 220 and the through hole 230. H1 , 230 H2 Still more advantageously, the through hole 225 of the rear hinge area 225 H1 , 225 H2 Alternatively similar to through hole 125 H1 ,125 H2 ; Specifically, through hole 225 H1 , 225 H2 Advantageously, they have a circular or substantially circular shape and are preferably made with a diameter that is sufficiently larger than the diameter of the hinge pin 220 to allow the hinge pin 220 to pass through them substantially frictionlessly or with reduced friction (with similar degrees and advantages to those of the previous embodiments), but small enough to prevent the hinge pin 220 from sliding along the longitudinal direction X. In this way, each link 205 i can be rotated about a fixed axis of rotation represented by the corresponding hinge pin 220 (conversely, the through hole 225 also in the form of an elongated hole H1 , 225 H2 This would cause the articulation pin 220 and therefore the axis of rotation defined thereby to move in the longitudinal direction X and create stability problems for the chain 200 ).

[0095] In the exemplary embodiment contemplated, the fork 215 A1 , 215 A2 The shape is similar to the fork 115 A1 , 115 A2 shape, and in particular, each link 205 i The front hinge region 225 can receive the corresponding rear link 205 i+1 The rear hinge area 230 (so that the corresponding through hole 225 H1 , 225 H2 , 230 H1 , 230 H2 aligned with each other in the transverse direction Z and having one and the same hinge pin 220 inserted through them, which allows the links 205 to be i The link body 215 is hinged to the next link 205i+1 The link body 215, such as Figure 2C and Figure 2D In addition, corresponding to the fork 215 A1 , 215 A2 The free end of the front hinge region 225 has an upper surface AS similar to that discussed above. 125,A1 、AS 125,A2 The substantially flat upper surface AS 225,A1 、AS 225,A2 .

[0096] Similar to the link body 115, the cross piece 215 T The supporting element in the form of a link 215 advantageously facilitates the function of supporting the plate 210 by the link body 215. The crosspiece 215 T At the fork 215 A1 , 215 A2 Extending along the transverse direction Z between (preferably corresponding to the front hinge area 225).

[0097] In the exemplary and non-limiting embodiment under consideration, the link body 215 further comprises stabilizing means to stabilize the chain 200 in a curve. Preferably, as shown, these stabilizing means comprise wing elements 2551, 2552, each wing element 2551, 2552 extending from a corresponding fork 215. A1 , 215 A2 Extending in the transverse direction Z, for example, the wing elements 2551, 2552 and the corresponding fork 215 A1 , 215 A2 More preferably, each wing element 2551, 2552 extends from the corresponding fork 215 A1 , 215 A2 The wing elements 2551, 2552 extend over a lower region of the chain 200 which, in use, lies adjacent to a guide of an article conveyor (not shown), thereby keeping the chain 200 attached to the guide. However, in the basic embodiment, the wing elements 2551, 2552 can be omitted: in an alternative embodiment of the invention, for example, a stabilizing device can be provided which is made by means of magnetic interaction elements in the article conveyor (e.g. magnets arranged along the guide) and is able to exert magnetic attraction on one or more magnetic interaction elements of the chain (e.g. hinge pins, which in these embodiments can be made of ferritic steel or other ferromagnetic material for this purpose).

[0098] Similar to the above, when the link body 215 and the corresponding plate 210 are coupled to each other (this coupling will be discussed in more detail below), the link body 215 extends substantially in the vertical direction Y below (or above, when the return section is used as a reference) the corresponding plate 210 (i.e., extends from its bottom surface opposite the resting surface). i Articulated to the next link 205 i+1 When the link 205 i The link body 215 and the link 205 i Plate 210 and the next link 205 i+1 The rear articulation region 230 of the link body 215 delimits, along the longitudinal direction X, the vertical direction Y and the transverse direction Z, a mounting region for mounting thereon pinions and gears allowing the chain 200 to move.

[0099] Similar to the discussion above, each plate 210 includes a restraining device adapted to be engaged with the corresponding link 205. i The associated articulation pin 220 is confined or housed within the front articulation region 225 , thereby preventing the articulation pin 220 from coming out in the longitudinal direction X (thus jeopardizing the articulation between the links).

[0100] The restraining means preferably comprises a wall 210 F1 , 210 F2 (For example, two walls, each preferably with a corresponding through hole 225 H1 , 225 H2 associated), the wall 210 F1 , 210 F2 Extending along the vertical direction Y from the bottom surface of each plate 210 .

[0101] Preferably, the wall 210 F1 , 210 F2 Similar in function to fin 110 F1 , 110 F2 , in that when the plate 210 is coupled to the corresponding link body 215, each wall 210 F1 , 210 F2 (ie, a portion thereof) covers the corresponding through hole 225 H1 , 225 H2 (particularly its external opening), whereby the previously mentioned F1 , 110 F2 The consideration of the position of the wall 210 substantially flush with the outer opening of the through hole and their distance along the transverse direction Z also applies to the wall 210 F1 , 210 F2 However, wall 210 F1 , 210 F2Structurally with fin 110 F1 , 110 F2 The difference is that they extend substantially over the entire length of the plate 210 (along the longitudinal direction X): although not essential, the advantage of extending substantially over the entire length of the plate 210 is that this allows increasing the reliability of the coupling of the plate 210 to the link body 215 (as discussed below).

[0102] Similar to Fin 110 F1 , 110 F2 , wall 210 F1 , 210 F2 Preferably made of plastic material, more preferably they are made in one piece with the corresponding plate 210 (eg by injection molding techniques). Even more preferably, the wall 210 F1 , 210 F2 Made of a plastic material that is rigid enough to allow the hinge pin to be restrained without deformation, and resilient enough to allow for instantaneous deformation of the hinge pin (eg, to allow coupling and decoupling between plate 210 and link body 215).

[0103] Similar to the above, the coupling between the plate 210 and the link body 215 is performed by coupling between one or more coupling elements provided in the plate 210 and one or more coupling elements provided in the link body 215 .

[0104] Similar to the above, one or more connecting elements provided in the plate 210 and one or more connecting elements provided in the link body 215 are configured to lock to each other (no hinge pin locking), preferably in a reversible (or releasable) manner, and the same beneficial effects of such no hinge pin locking as discussed in the previous embodiment are equally applicable to this embodiment.

[0105] Similar to the previous embodiments, these coupling elements may comprise snap-fit ​​couplings or snap-fit ​​elements, which advantageously include one or more (e.g., two) protrusions 2351, 2352, preferably provided in the plate 210, each protrusion being adapted to snap-fit ​​into a corresponding hollow 2401, 2402, preferably provided in the link body 215. Preferably, the protrusions 2351, 2352 and hollows 2401, 2402 are similar to the protrusions 1351, 1352 and hollows 1401, 1402 discussed above, whereby the above considerations regarding the shapes of the protrusions 1351, 1352 and hollows 1401, 1402 and the coupling and decoupling modes also apply to the protrusions 2351, 2352 and hollows 2401, 2402.

[0106] and arranged along the vertical direction Y in each through hole 125 H1, 125 H2 The hollow parts 1401 and 1402 are different from each other, and the hollow parts 2401 and 2402 are arranged along the longitudinal direction X with the through hole 225. H1 , 225 H2 Substantially side-by-side (e.g., immediately adjacent as shown): This positioning of hollows 2401, 2402 advantageously allows for greater structural robustness (because hollows 2401, 2402 are made in a more "interior" region of the link body relative to hollows 1401, 1402) and allows for wall 210 to be positioned substantially side-by-side (e.g., immediately adjacent as shown). F1 , 210 F2 There is an extension that is sufficiently higher than the fin 110 F1 , 110 F2 The extension of the fin 110 (along the longitudinal direction X) allows the protrusions 2351, 2352 to be made in substantially any useful position - however, it should be noted that such a position of the hollow portion is also possible in the previous embodiment, in which case the fin 110 F1 , 110 F2 The shape and / or size of the components may differ from the ones shown.

[0107] As previously mentioned, the advantage of extending over substantially the entire length of the plate 210 is that this allows increasing the reliability of the coupling of the plate 210 to the link body 215: for this purpose, preferably the coupling element further comprises one or more (for example two) teeth 210. F1T , 210 F2T (Preferably on the corresponding wall 210 F1 , 210 F2 Each tooth 210 F1T , 210 F2T Suitable for insertion into the corresponding hollow portion 255, for example, by friction or snap fit H1 , 255 H2 Preferably, as shown, each tooth 210 F1T , 210 F2T Extending along the vertical direction Y and from the corresponding wall 210 F1 , 210 F2 The lower edge of the guide (ie the edge facing the article conveyor in use) protrudes, and each hollow portion 255 H1 , 255 H2 Extending along the vertical direction Y within the respective wing elements 2551 , 2552 between the upper and lower surfaces thereof.

[0108] Tooth 210 F1T , 210 F2T and hollow part 255H1 , 255 H2 The coupling between them gives further stability to the chain 200 and in particular it stabilizes the plate 210 in a curve.

[0109] Preferably, if Figure 2A 、 2B , 2G and 2H, except for the appendage 245 and recess 250 (preferably similar in structure and function to the appendage 145 and recess 150 of the plate 110), the plate 210 has a substantially rectangular shape in plan view.

[0110] In particular, similar to the attachment 145, the attachment 245 preferably includes an upper surface AS 245 (preferably similar to upper surface AS145) and tongue-shaped portion 245 T Advantageously, the tongue-shaped portion 245 T Can be inserted into a seat (not visible) of the rear hinge area 230 so that by inserting the tongue-shaped portion 245 T Inserted into the inside of the seat and pushing the plate 210 downwards, the plate 210 is guided to rotate towards the link body 215 (with the tongue-shaped portion 245 as a fulcrum), upwards until the protrusions 2351, 2352 engage with the corresponding hollows 2401, 2402, and thence downwards until the plate 210 rests on the corresponding crosspiece 215. T Up till (cross bar 215 T The seats in the and rear hinge areas 230 thus support the plate 210 at its front and rear sides, respectively).

[0111] As in Figure 2E and 2F As can be seen, when the plate 210 is coupled to the link body 215, the link 205 i The upper surface of the attachment 245 AS 245 Assemble to the link 205 i The upper surface AS of the rear hinge area 230 230 The recess of the chain link 205 i The upper surface AS of the front hinge area 225 225,A1 、AS 225,A2 With the next link 205 i+1 The upper surface AS of the rear hinge area 230 230 And with the next link 205 i+1 The upper surface AS of the attachment 245 of the plate 210 245 Defines a substantially continuous surface (which forms a i However, similar to the above with respect to the upper surface AS 125,A1 、AS 125,A2 、AS130 、AS 145 As discussed, the upper surface AS 125,A1 、AS 125,A2 、AS 130 、AS 145 The size of is advantageously minimized at the design stage relative to the size of the upper surface of the plate 210 (to achieve the same beneficial effects as discussed above).

[0112] Unlike plate 110 (where the rear side is substantially straight, except in the presence of attachment 245), plate 210 preferably includes a rear side having a substantially V-shaped profile (to allow rotation of chain 200, as will be explained shortly) as shown in FIG. Figure 2A and Figure 2E As can be seen better in FIG. 2G , the rear side of the plate 210 preferably comprises two inclined portions 2601 , 2602 extending from respective sides of the appendix 245 in opposite oblique directions, thereby defining respective gaps along the longitudinal direction X, which gaps are located between the links 205 . i The rear side and the front link 205 i-1 In this way, as Figure 2H As shown, these gaps allow the chain 200 to rotate to the right and to the left (it should be noted that without such gaps, the plates would hinder rotation). The gradual extension of the gaps along the longitudinal direction X allows the chain 200 to rotate while maintaining the support surface as continuous as possible: in any case, embodiments of the invention (not shown) can provide the rear side of the plates defining a constant or substantially constant gap along the horizontal direction X (such embodiments can be provided, for example, in cases where the items to be conveyed are of relatively large dimensions and / or are shaped so as not to create the risk of being trapped in these gaps).

[0113] Now refer to Figure 3A , which shows a perspective view of a chain 300 (or a portion thereof) for an article conveyor according to another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the chain 300 is shown in a running orientation (left side of the figure) and an upside-down orientation (right side of the figure). In the following, for ease of description, Figure 3A will with Figure 3B Combined discussion, Figure 3B Link 305 of chain 300 is shown i in an exploded perspective view in a running orientation (left side view) and in an upside-down orientation (right side view), and Figure 3A will with Figure 3C - Let's discuss this together with 3G. Figure 3C 3G shows a perspective view of the chain 300 at various stages of installation.

[0114] Hereinafter, the chain 300 and / or the chain links 305 will be denoted by similar reference numerals. i The elements of the chain and / or chain links correspond to those of the aforementioned embodiments, and their description will be simplified or omitted for the sake of brevity. It should be noted that similar Figure 2A The chains 200 and 300 are shown rotated 180° in the XZ plane relative to the chain 100 .

[0115] Similar to the above, each link 305 i The chain 300 has a first link element (a plate in the example shown) 310 and a second link element (a link body in the example shown) 315, wherein the first link element 310 is used to support the items to be conveyed, and the second link element 315 is preferably coupled to the plate 310 in a reversible manner to support the plate 310 and allow the chain 300 to move, wherein each link 305 i Suitable for being articulated to its adjacent link 305 by means of a corresponding articulation pin 320 (eg in the transverse direction Z) i-1 , 305 i+1 (ie, hinged to the next link 305 i+1 and / or the previous link 305 i-1 ).

[0116] Preferably, as shown, each link 305 i The link body 315 includes a i Articulated to the next link 305 i+1 The front articulation area 325 and the link 305 i Articulated to the previous link 305 i-1 The rear articulation region 330. Similar to the above, each link 305 i The front articulation region 325 is preferably adapted to receive a corresponding rear link 305 i+1 The rear articulation region 330 and the links 305 are properly aligned along the transverse direction Z. i The front articulation region 325 and the corresponding rear link 305 i+1 The rear articulation region 330 is preferably adapted to simultaneously receive the same articulation pin 320 (to obtain articulation between the links).

[0117] Preferably, as shown, each link 305 i The link body 315 includes a mounting area 315 on the bottom M and includes a support area 315 on the top R (preferably, as shown, substantially flat), mounting area 315 MFor mounting thereon pinions and gears that allow the chain 300 (not shown) to move, the plate 310 advantageously rests on the support area 315 when it is coupled to the link body 315. R superior.

[0118] In the exemplary embodiment shown, the rear articulation region 330 includes a hollow tip 330 P (e.g., cylindrical or substantially cylindrical), which extends from the mounting area 315 M The rear end protrudes along the longitudinal direction X and has a through hole 330 H (determines the hollow portion of the cylindrical end) or other hollow portion, suitable for receiving the hinge pin 320 along the transverse direction Z. As can be seen in the figure, such an end 330 P Also protrudes in the vertical direction Y, thus delimiting the support area 315 from behind in terms of height R .

[0119] In the exemplary embodiment shown, the front hinge area 325 is located at the mounting area 315. M The front end (opposite to the rear end) of the hinge pin 320 comprises a pair of hollow arms 3251, 3252 extending along the transverse direction Z and having corresponding through holes 325 adapted to receive the hinge pin 320 along the transverse direction Z. H1 , 325 H2 (which determines the hollow portion of the corresponding arms 3251, 3252) or other hollow portions.

[0120] Preferably, as shown, each arm 3251, 3252 has a cylindrical or substantially cylindrical surface on the bottom (at Figure 3A and Figure 3B The cylindrical surface of each arm 3251, 3252 advantageously extends beyond the corresponding through hole 325 in the transverse direction Z. H1 ,325 H2 external opening.

[0121] Preferably, as shown, each arm 3251, 3252 has a flat surface on the top that aligns with the support area 315. R substantially coplanar for receiving plate 310 (described below), and edge portion 325 1E , 325 2E Advantageously protruding in the vertical direction Y beyond the support area 315 R and delimiting the flat surface along the transverse direction Z (as described below, such edge portion 325 1E , 325 2E or a portion thereof, advantageously serves as an engagement element for coupling the plate 310 to the link 315. Each edge portion 3251E , 325 2E Advantageously, it extends in the transverse direction Z beyond the corresponding through hole 325 H1 , 325 H2 , preferably to an extent less than that of the corresponding cylindrical surface (in such a way that, as described below, the receiving means of plate 310 discussed below are flush or substantially flush with the free ends of the cylindrical surfaces of arms 3251, 3252 when plate 310 and link body 315 are coupled to one another).

[0122] As mentioned above, in the exemplary embodiment shown, the tip 330 P and edge portion 325 1E , 325 2E Protrudes in height (along the vertical direction Y) beyond the support area 315 R As will be understood from the discussion below, the end 330 P and edge portion 325 1E , 325 2E The protrusions in the height of the plate 310 are dimensioned according to the width profile of the plate 310 (ie the profile of its extension along the vertical direction Y), so that when the plate 310 is mounted on the link body 315, it defines the width of the link 305. i A substantially flat upper surface.

[0123] 305 per link i The arms 3251, 3252 are advantageously spaced apart in the transverse direction Z to receive the next link 305 between them. i+1 The end 330 of the rear hinge region 330 P (so that the corresponding through hole 325 H1 , 325 H2 , 330 H aligned with each other in the transverse direction Z and having a hinge pin 320 inserted through them, which allows the links 305 to i The link body 315 and the next link 305 i+1 The link bodies 315 are hinged, as in Figure 3C and Figure 3D shown in ).

[0124] In the exemplary embodiment shown, the through hole 325 H1 , 325 H2 , 330 HThe chain 300 is of circular or substantially circular shape (so that the chain 300 is similar to the chain 100 and is suitable for use in a straight conveying path, i.e., without curves), and is preferably made with a diameter that is sufficiently larger than the diameter of the hinge pin 320 to allow the hinge pin 320 to pass through with substantially no friction or reduced friction (with a degree of friction and advantages similar to that of the previous embodiment), but small enough to limit the friction of each link 305. i about a fixed axis of rotation represented by the corresponding hinge pin 320 (as described above, the presence of the fixed axis of rotation enables each link 305 to rotate i Relative to the adjacent link 305 i-1 、305 i+1 flexion without dislocation).

[0125] Similar to the previous embodiment, the front hinge region 325 has a substantially flat upper surface AS corresponding to the free end of each arm 3251, 3252. 325,A1 、AS 325,A2 (Similar to the upper surface AS discussed previously 125,A1 、AS 125,A2 、AS 225,A1 、AS 225,A2 ), as will be explained below, the upper surface AS 325,A1 、AS 325,A2 It is beneficial to form a supporting surface for the chain 300, and the rear articulation area 330 has a substantially flat upper surface AS 330 As will be explained below, the upper surface AS 330 Helps form a bearing surface for the chain 300 .

[0126] Preferably, as shown, the upper surface AS of the front hinge region 325 325,A1 、AS 325,A2 Preferably, the edge portion 325 of the respective arm 3251, 3252 1E , 325 2E upper surface.

[0127] Preferably, as shown, the upper surface AS of the rear hinge region 330 330 Preferably, the end 330 P Upper attachment 330 PA As discussed below, the upper attachment 330 PA Advantageously provided as an alignment / positioning means and as a fulcrum means for coupling the plate 310 to the corresponding link body 315. Such attachment 330 PA It has a substantially T-shaped profile, with a longitudinal portion (ie, a portion extending along the longitudinal direction X) and a transverse portion (ie, a portion extending along the transverse direction Z), the longitudinal portion having a substantially rectangular shape, which covers the cylindrical end 330 from above.P , the transverse portion has a substantially rectangular shape which projects beyond the longitudinal portion (towards the mounting area) along the longitudinal direction X (and, as will be explained below, forms a tongue which advantageously contributes to the coupling between the plate 310 and the link body 315).

[0128] Advantageously, in all exemplary embodiments discussed herein, each link 105 i , 205 i 、305 i The present invention includes a positioning element provided in the plate 110, 210, 310 and a positioning element provided in the link body 115, 215, 315 and adapted to be coupled to the positioning element provided in the plate 110, 210, 310 so as to align the plate 110, 210, 310 and the link body 115, 215, 315 with each other, wherein one of the positioning element provided in the plate 110, 210, 310 and the positioning element provided in the link body 115, 215, 315 preferably serves as a fulcrum for guiding the coupling between the plate 110, 210, 310 and the link body 115, 215, 315 (see, for example, Figure 1E -1G, Figure 2E -2G and Figure 3E -3G).

[0129] Similar to the above, each plate 310 includes a restraining device adapted to be engaged with the corresponding link 305. i The associated articulation pin 320 is confined or housed within the front articulation region 325 , thereby preventing the articulation pin 320 from coming out in the transverse direction Z (thus compromising the articulation between the links).

[0130] Similar to Figure 1A -1G embodiment, such a restriction means preferably comprises fins 310 F1 、310 F2 (For example, two fins, each fin preferably with a corresponding through hole 325 H1 , 325 H2 associated), fin 310 F1 , 310 F2 Each fin 310 extends from the bottom surface of each plate 310 along the vertical direction Y. F1 , 310 F2 are adapted to cover the corresponding through-holes 325 when the plate 310 is coupled to the corresponding link body 315 H1 , 325 H2 (especially its external opening). Preferably, the fin 310 F1 , 310 F2 Similar in structure to fin 110 F1 , 110 F2, thus the previous discussion on the fin 110 F1 , 110 F2 The consideration of being positioned substantially flush with the outer opening of the through hole and their distance along the transverse direction Z has an important impact on the fin 310. F1 , 310 F2 It is also effective.

[0131] Similar to Fin 110 F1 , 110 F2 , fin 310 F1 , 310 F2 Preferably made of plastic material, more preferably they are made in one piece with the corresponding plate 310 (eg by injection molding techniques). Even more preferably, the fins 310 F1 , 310 F2 Made of a plastic material that is rigid enough to allow hinge pin 320 to be restrained without deformation, and resilient enough to allow for instantaneous deformation of the hinge pin (eg, to allow coupling and decoupling between plate 310 and link body 315).

[0132] Similar to the above, the coupling between the plate 310 and the link body 315 is performed by coupling between one or more coupling elements provided in the plate 310 and one or more coupling elements provided in the link body 315 .

[0133] Similar to the above, one or more connecting elements provided in the plate 310 and one or more connecting elements provided in the link body 315 are configured to lock to each other (no hinge pin locking), preferably in a reversible (or releasable) manner, and the same beneficial effects of such no hinge pin locking as discussed in the previous embodiment are equally applicable to this embodiment.

[0134] Similar to the previous embodiments, these coupling elements preferably comprise snap-fit ​​or snap-fit ​​coupling elements.

[0135] Preferably, as in Figure 3B As can be seen in FIG, such a snap-fit ​​coupling element comprises one or more protrusions preferably provided in the plate 310 and adapted to snap-fit ​​engage with one or more engagement elements preferably provided in the link body 315. More preferably, such a snap-fit ​​coupling element comprises two protrusions 3351, 3352, each protrusion engaging with a corresponding fin 310. F1 , 310 F2 associated with (and preferably formed in) the respective inner surfaces thereof and adapted to engage with the respective edge portions 325 1E , 325 2EEven more preferably, the protrusions 3351, 3352 are similar to the protrusions of the previously discussed embodiments, whereby they have the same shape and similar modes of coupling and uncoupling; in this manner, by sliding the plate 310 from the top downwards on the link body 305 (e.g., Figure 3E -3G), the protrusions 3351, 3352 (due to the corresponding fin 310 determined by the inducement (solicitation) F1 , 310 F2 elastic deformation) along the edge portion 325 1E , 325 2E The outer side of the fin 310 slides down to fit under it (so that when the inducement stops, the fin 310 F1 , 310 F2 The natural tendency of the fin to return to its original shape can be stopped by a simple reverse sliding motion. F1 , 310 F2 Advantageously, similar to the discussion above, to allow the plate 310 to decouple from the link body 305 (disengagement), a vertical force may be applied upward from the bottom to the plate 310; such vertical force in turn causes the plate 310 to flex, which allows the fin 310 to F1 , 310 F2 The distance between the protrusions 3351, 3352 and the corresponding edge portions 325 is increased instantaneously and simultaneously, thereby obtaining 1E , 325 2E of separation.

[0136] Preferably, as in Figure 3A 、 Figure 3B and Figure 3E As can be seen in FIG3G , the plate 310 has a substantially rectangular shape in plan view, except for three grooves 3501 , 3502, 3503 advantageously formed on its front side and a seat 365 advantageously formed on its rear side.

[0137] Advantageously, each groove extends along the longitudinal direction X, preferably from the front side of the plate 310 towards the rear side of the plate 310. More advantageously, the grooves 3501, 3502 are made with an upper surface AS associated with the front hinge area 325. 325,A1 、AS 325,A23252, and the slot 3503 is advantageously made with a shape, size and position corresponding to the shape, size and position of the longitudinal portion of the appendage 330PA. In the exemplary embodiment described, the tip 330p (and therefore the longitudinal portion of the appendage 330PA associated therewith) is positioned substantially centered relative to the arms 3251, 3252 along the transverse direction Z, and the slot 3503 is correspondingly positioned substantially centered relative to the slots 3501, 3502 along the transverse direction Z.

[0138] The seat 365 is advantageously made to have a PA The shape, size and position of the lateral portion correspond to the shape, size and position to receive the accessory 330 PA to allow the connection between the plate 320 and the link body 315. More advantageously, the seat 365 also includes a slit 365 S , the slit 365 S Suitable for receiving preferably provided in the attachment 330 PA More specifically, by making the attachment 330 PA The lateral portion of the plate 310 is aligned with the seat 365, and by inserting the centering member into the slit 365 S Pushing the plate 310 downwards confirms the rotation of the plate 310 towards the link body 315 (and the alignment of the centering member and the slot 365). S between the connecting pieces, thus serving as a fulcrum), downward until the protrusions 3351, 3352 are aligned with the corresponding edge portions 325 1E , 325 2E The joint, and until the attachment 330 PA until the lateral portion of the Figure 3F and 3G (see in the ).

[0139] In this way, as in Figure 3G As can be better understood in the example, when the plate 310 is coupled to the link body 315 and rests on the support area 315 R , when on, with link 305 i The front hinge area 325 is associated with the upper table AS 325,A1 、AS 325,A2 Assembled on the same link 305 i The slots 3501, 3502 of the associated plate 310 are connected to the same link 305. i The rear hinged area 330 is associated with the attachment 330 PA The transverse portion is assembled in the seat portion 365 and is connected to the rear link 305 i+1The rear hinged area 330 is associated with the attachment 330 PA The longitudinal portion of the chain 300 is fitted into the groove 3503, thereby obtaining a substantially continuous surface that forms the connection between the chain 300 and the link 305. i A portion of the associated resting surface - as previously described, to achieve this, the end 330p and edge portion 325 1E , 325 2E The height of the protrusion 325 1E , 325 2E Advantageously, the dimensions are designed according to the width profile of the plate 310. Similar to the previous description regarding the upper surface AS 125,A1 、AS 125,A2 、AS 130 and AS 225,A1 、AS 225,A2 、AS 230 As discussed, the upper surface AS 325,A1 、AS 325,A2 、AS 330 The size of is advantageously minimized during the design phase relative to the size of the upper surface of the plate 310 (to achieve the same beneficial effects as discussed above).

[0140] Of course, in order to meet occasional and specific requirements, those skilled in the art may make many modifications and logical and / or physical changes to the present invention. More specifically, although the present invention has been described in a certain degree of detail with reference to one or more embodiments of the present invention, it should be understood that various omissions, substitutions and changes in form and details and other embodiments are possible. In particular, the various embodiments of the present invention may be put into practice even without the specific details (such as numerical examples) set forth in the specification to provide a more complete understanding thereof; conversely, well-known features may be omitted or simplified so as not to obscure the description with unnecessary detail. In addition, it is clear that the specific elements described with respect to each embodiment of the present invention may be incorporated into any other embodiment as a normal design choice.

[0141] Similar considerations apply if the links have different structures or contain equivalent components. In any case, any component can be divided into more elements, or two or more components can be combined into a single element; furthermore, each component can be replicated to support the execution of the corresponding operations in parallel. It is also noted that (unless otherwise specified) any interaction between different components generally need not be continuous and can interact directly or indirectly through one or more intermediates.

Claims

1. A chain link (105) of a chain (100; 200; 300) for an article conveyor i ;205 i ;305 i ),in, The chain link (105 i ;205 i ;305 i )include: a first link element (110; 210; 310) and a second link element (115; 215; 315), the first link element (110; 210; 310) and the second link element (115; 215; 315) being formed as separate components that can be coupled, the first link element (110; 210; 310) being configured to support an article to be conveyed, and the second link element (115; 215; 315) being adapted to support the first link element (110; 210; 310) and to allow the chain (100; 200; 300) to move in the conveyor when in use; An articulation region (125, 130; 225, 230; 325, 330) is provided in the second chain link element (115; 215; 315) for connecting the chain link (105 i ;205 i ;305 i ) is hinged to another link (105) of the chain (100; 200; 300) i+1 , 105 i-1 ;205 i+1 , 205 i-1 ;305 i+1 、305 i-1 ), the articulation region (125, 130; 225, 230; 325, 330) being suitable for inserting therein, along an insertion direction (Z), an articulation element (120; 220; 320) for articulating the link to another link of the chain, Restraint device (110 F1 , 110 F2 ;210 F1 , 210 F2 ;310 F1 , 310 F2 ), the limiting device (110 F1 , 110 F2 ;210 F1 , 210 F2 ;310 F1 , 310 F2 ) is arranged in the first link element (110; 210; 310) and is suitable for confining the articulated element (120; 220; 320) in the articulated region (125, 130; 225, 230; 325, 330) along the insertion direction (Z) when the first link element (110; 210; 310) is coupled to the second link element (115; 215; 315), thereby preventing the articulated element (120; 220; 320) from coming out of the articulated region (125, 130; 225, 230; 325, 330) along the insertion direction (Z); Characterized in that, the chain link (105 i ;205 i ;305 i ) also includes a coupling device (1351, 1352, 1401, 1402; 2351, 2352, 2401, 2402; 3351, 3352, 325 1E , 325 2E ), the connecting device (1351, 1352, 1401, 1402; 2351, 2352, 2401, 2402; 3351, 3352, 325 1E , 325 2E ) is used to connect the first link element (110; 210; 310) and the second link element (115; 215; 315) to each other, and includes a first connecting element (1351, 1352; 2351, 2352; 3351, 3352) and a second connecting element (1401, 1402; 2401, 2402; 325 1E , 325 2E ), the first coupling element (1351, 1352; 2351, 2352; 3351, 3352) is arranged on the restriction device (110 F1 , 110 F2 ;210 F1 , 210 F2 ;310 F1 , 310 F2 ), wherein the second connecting element (1401, 1402; 2401, 2402; 325 1E , 325 2E ) is arranged in the second link element (115; 215; 315) and is adapted to be coupled to the first coupling element, the first coupling element (1351, 1352; 2351, 2352; 3351, 3352) and the second coupling element (1401, 1402; 2401, 2402; 325 1E , 325 2E ) are configured to be locked to one another so that a connection without articulated elements is obtained between the first link element (110; 210; 310) and the second link element (115; 215; 315).

2. The chain link (105) of the chain for the article conveyor according to claim 1 i ;205 i ;305 i ), characterized in that The first link element (110; 210; 310) comprises a first surface adapted to support an article to be transported and a second surface opposite to the first surface, the restriction device (110 F1 , 110 F2 ;210 F1 , 210 F2 ;310 F1 , 310 F2 ) comprises at least one wall extending from a second surface of the first link element (110; 210; 310) toward the articulation region (125, 130; 225, 230; 325, 330).

3. A chain link (105) for a chain for an article conveyor according to claim 1 or 2 i ;205 i ;305 i ), characterized in that The articulation region (125, 130; 225, 230; 325, 330) comprises at least one hollow portion (125) adapted to receive the articulation element (120; 220; 320) H1 , 125 H2 ;225 H1 , 225 H2 ;325 H1 , 325 H2 ), the limiting device (110 F1 , 110 F2 ;210 F1 , 210 F2 ;310 F1 , 310 F2 ) is suitable for covering the at least one hollow portion (125 H1 , 125 H2 ;225 H1 , 225 H2 ;325 H1 , 325 H2 ) to prevent the hinge element (120; 220; 320) therein from falling out along the insertion direction (Z).

4. The chain link (105) of the chain for the article conveyor according to claim 1 i ;205 i ;305 i ), characterized in that The first link element (110; 210; 310) and the second link element (115; 215; 315) are coupled to each other in a reversible manner.

5. The chain link (105) of the chain for the article conveyor according to claim 1 i ;205 i ;305 i ), characterized in that The coupling device (1351, 1352, 1401, 1402; 2351, 2352, 2401, 2402; 3351, 3352, 325 1E , 325 2E ) includes a snap-fit ​​connection device (1351, 1352, 1401, 1402; 2351, 2352, 2401, 2402; 3351, 3352, 325) for snap-fitting the first link element (110; 210; 310) and the second link element (115; 215; 315) to each other. 1E , 325 2E ).

6. The chain link (105) of the chain for an article conveyor according to claim 1 i ;205 i ;305 i ), characterized in that The first coupling element (1351, 1352; 2351, 2352; 3351, 3352) is arranged on the restriction device (110 F1 , 110 F2 ;210 F1 , 210 F2 ;310 F1 , 310 F2 ) part, and wherein the second coupling element (1401, 1402; 2401, 2402; 325 1E , 325 2E ) is arranged in a portion of the hinge area (125, 130; 225, 230; 325, 330).

7. The chain link (105) of the chain for an article conveyor according to claim 1 i ;205 i ;305 i ), characterized in that Also includes a positioning device (145, 145 T ;245,245 T ;330 PA ,365,365 S ), the positioning device (145, 145 T ;245,245 T ;330 PA ,365,365 S ) is suitable for aligning the first link element (110; 210; 310) and the second link element (115; 215; 315) with each other and for guiding the connection of the first link element (110; 210; 310) and the second link element (115; 215; 315).

8. The chain link (105) of the chain for an article conveyor according to claim 7 i ;205 i ;305 i ), characterized in that The positioning device (145, 145 T ;245,245 T ;330 PA ,365,365 S ) includes a first positioning element and a second positioning element, wherein the first positioning element is arranged in the first link element (110; 210; 310), and the second positioning element is arranged in the second link element (115; 215; 315) and is suitable for being connected to the first positioning element.

Images