Modules of a modular conveyor belt and a modular conveyor belt formed from the modules

Abstract

The present invention relates to a module for modular conveyor belts, comprising a base body extending in length along a first direction, the base body having: an upper surface and a lower surface; first and second longitudinal edges opposite each other with respect to a second direction orthogonal to the first direction; a plurality of first and second hinge elements, each of the first hinge elements being crossed by a first hole, each of the second hinge elements being crossed by a second hole, the first hinge elements and the second hinge elements being inserted one into the other, leaving a plurality of spaces in at least some of which a corresponding roller is received, each of the rollers projecting from the upper surface by a portion, the plane being parallel with respect to the first and second directions and tangent to the portion of the roller projecting from the upper surface defining a conveying surface, the base body comprising at least an engagement element engaging with a tooth of a drive gear of the conveyor, and the plane being spaced apart from the plane of the axes passing through the first holes and the second holes by a distance forming a support plane in sliding contact along a slider track.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a module of a modular conveyor belt with a roller conveying surface, a module of the type with rollers mounted on hinge pins for use in a motorized continuous conveyor, and a modular conveyor belt formed by a plurality of such modules. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of conveyor belts, it is known that a conveyor belt is formed by multiple modules that are hinged to each other, and the conveying surface of the conveyor belt is defined by multiple rollers associated with the modules.

[0003] Specifically, the known module is composed of a base body that corresponds to the front and rear edges relative to the conveying direction of the belt, and is provided with one or more eyelets or hinge elements that receive hinge pins with adjacent modules.

[0004] One or more recesses for tooth engagement with the drive gear of the belt are formed in the base; these recesses are known to be accessible from the lower surface of the base, that is, from the surface opposite to the surface on which the roller is located.

[0005] Two types of modular conveyor belt modules with roller conveyor surfaces are known:

[0006] The first type involves supports for one or more shafts protruding from the upper surface of the base. Multiple rollers, rotatably mounted on each shaft, are arranged adjacent to each other to form a row extending substantially along the entire width of the module, less than the thickness of the supports. The rollers are rotatably mounted on shafts other than hinge pins. The conveying surface of the belt is defined by planes tangent to the outer surfaces of the rollers. Examples of such modules are described in documents NL1010530, WO2013030404, and WO2017055999A2.

[0007] The second type involves rollers integrated into the thickness of the module's base, protruding above and below it, and coaxially mounted with hinge pins of the articulated continuous modules. The rollers are rotatably mounted on the hinge pins that hinge adjacent modules to each other, and the rollers are arranged symmetrically with respect to the thickness of the base. That is, the rollers protrude from below the lower surface of the base, which forms a supporting plane for sliding contact on the conveyor's slide rail. The conveying surface of the belt is defined by a plane tangent to the outer surface of the portion of the roller protruding above the base of each module. Examples of such modules are described in patents US7527146 and US10065802.

[0008] The first type of module has the advantage of providing a nearly continuous conveying surface formed by a continuous row of rollers. They also have high mechanical resistance, sometimes excessive compared to application requirements, a high extension of the support plane in contact with the slide rail, thus limited wear due to its sliding contact on the conveyor's slide rail, and strong engagement with the drive gear.

[0009] However, the disadvantages of these modules are their large size, especially in height and weight, which is not conducive to the use of belts formed by them.

[0010] In particular, this type of module has a high overall height, which is determined by the sum of the thickness of the substrate, the diameter of the rollers, and the gap between the rollers and the upper surface of the module itself. As is known to those skilled in the art, the so-called "chord effect" of opening and closing the module, corresponding to the winding of the belt around the drive gear, is directly related to this overall height. This "chord effect" is undesirable because it causes problems with the continuity of the conveyor surface, corresponding to the passage of the so-called "dead channel plate" arranged at the end of the belt, and safety issues, such as the possibility that an operator may accidentally injure themselves.

[0011] The overall weight of these modules also hinders the use of the conveyor belt, limiting the effective load that can be transported and affecting the tensile stress that must be applied to the belt to drive its movement.

[0012] On the other hand, the second type of module has the advantage of having a lower overall height and weight than the first type of module. The lower height of these modules allows for an opening area to be accommodated between the rollers of the continuous modules of the same belt during the belt winding step, corresponding to one end of the conveyor (head winding) and the head passage between two continuous conveyors. The resulting advantage is that the transport of the product is safer and more regular as it passes between the two continuous conveyors.

[0013] However, the second known type of module also has some drawbacks.

[0014] The first drawback is that the rollers are inevitably spaced apart from each other, making it impossible to obtain a nearly continuous conveying surface, which in turn affects the stability of the conveyed products.

[0015] The spacing of the rollers is due, on the one hand, to the impossibility of arranging the rollers to correspond to portions of the base where recesses for toothed engagement with drive gears are formed and / or where support planes for sliding contact with the slide rails are defined. Since the rollers protrude below the support planes of the base, it is impossible to arrange the slide rails to correspond to the rollers; in fact, the rolling of the rollers on the slide rails would generate acceleration in the product. On the other hand, the reference belt (so-called LBP low back pressure) is used to convey products corresponding to the end of the production line (e.g., corresponding to a channel between shrink wrappers and stackers), while creating areas or buffers for product accumulation without acceleration. Furthermore, the roller spacing is also due to the need to avoid excessively reducing the mechanical strength of the module.

[0016] Another drawback is that these modules have lower mechanical properties than their counterparts without rollers or with rollers supported on their respective bases, and their resistance cross-section is reduced due to the housing of the rollers themselves.

[0017] Due to the limited extension of the supporting plane of the substrate that slides in contact with the slider track, they are also subject to high wear. The position and dimensions of the slider track, especially its width, are limited and constrained by the presence of rollers; the slider track can be arranged only to correspond to the portion of the substrate without rollers.

[0018] This is clearly illustrated in documents US7527146 and US10065802. Even from the drawings in US7527146 alone, it can be seen that the support plane of the base of each module is limited to hinge elements without rollers.

[0019] As described and illustrated in US10065802, a region of the substrate is provided that is intentionally devoid of rollers; correspondingly, recesses are provided for meshing with the teeth of the drive gear and support planes are provided for contact with the slider track. Therefore, the position and width of the slider track are related to these regions. Summary of the Invention

[0020] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to realize a module of a modular conveyor belt with a roller conveyor surface for a continuous motorized conveyor of the type with rollers mounted on hinge pins, and a modular conveyor belt formed by multiple such modules, which overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0021] In general, a particular object of the present invention is to propose a module that combines the advantages of known modules of a first type with those of a second type.

[0022] Another object of the present invention is to provide a module that allows for obtaining a conveyor belt with a substantially continuous roller conveying surface by increasing the density of the rollers.

[0023] Another object of the present invention is to provide a module that can easily realize the meshing element with the teeth of the drive gear of the conveyor, ensuring its stable and safe connection.

[0024] Another object of the present invention is to provide a module that allows for the extension of the support plane that slides in contact with the slider track of the conveyor, and allows for a wide range of freedom in the selection of the position and size of the slider track.

[0025] Another object of the present invention is to realize, at low cost, a module for a modular conveyor belt with a roller conveyor surface and a modular conveyor belt formed by a plurality of said modules, said modules being particularly simple and fully functional.

[0026] These objectives according to the invention are achieved by realizing a modular conveyor belt with a roller conveying surface as set forth in the independent claims, a module with rollers mounted on hinge pins, and a modular conveyor belt.

[0027] Further features are included in the dependent claims. Attached Figure Description

[0028] From the following description, the features and advantages of modular conveyor belt modules with roller conveyor surfaces, modules with rollers mounted on hinge pins, and modular conveyor belts formed from multiple modules according to the invention will become more apparent, and will be understood as exemplary rather than limiting, with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0029] Figure 1 and Figure 2 These are, respectively, isometric views of a portion of a modular conveyor belt according to a first possible embodiment of the present invention, from above and below;

[0030] Figure 3A , 3B and Figure 4 They are Figure 1 and 2 Top plan, bottom plan, and side view of a portion of the strip;

[0031] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 and Figure 2 A top plan view of the head module with rollers and hinge pins;

[0032] Figure 6 It is based on Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of plane VI-VI;

[0033] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 Bottom plan view of the middle module;

[0034] Figure 8 yes Figure 5 The front view of the module;

[0035] Figure 9 and 10 They are along Figure 8 A sectional view of planes IX-IX and XX;

[0036] Figure 11A and 11B They are from Figure 5 The isometric and exploded views of the module above and below;

[0037] Figure 12 It is an isometric view of a part of a continuously motorized conveyor including a modular conveyor belt according to a first possible embodiment of the invention;

[0038] Figure 13A and 13B They are Figure 12 Top and bottom plan views;

[0039] Figure 14 yes Figure 12 Side view and partial sectional view;

[0040] Figure 15 It is a side view of the head section of two coherent, continuously motorized conveyors, each conveyor including a modular conveyor belt according to a first possible embodiment of the invention;

[0041] Figure 16 This is an isometric view from above a portion of a modular conveyor belt according to a second possible embodiment of the invention;

[0042] Figure 16A yes Figure 16 Enlarged view of the details;

[0043] Figure 17 , 18 19 and 19 are respectively Figure 16 Top plan, bottom plan, and front view;

[0044] Figure 20 It is a side view of a portion of a coherent motorized conveyor including a modular conveyor belt according to a second possible embodiment of the invention;

[0045] Figures 21 to 25 It is a part of a modular conveyor belt according to a third possible embodiment of the invention, similar to Figures 16 to 20 The view of the view;

[0046] Figure 26The views are axonometric and partially exploded from above a portion of a coherent motorized conveyor including a modular conveyor belt and associated slider tracks according to an optional embodiment of the invention.

[0047] Figure 27 and 28 They are Figure 26 Top and front plan views of the conveyor section, with the belt resting on the slider track;

[0048] Figure 28A Displayed at magnification Figure 28 Details;

[0049] Figure 29 This is a bottom plan view of another embodiment of the module according to the present invention;

[0050] Figure 29A , 29B 29C are respectively based on Figure 29 The cross sections of planes AA, BB, and CC. Detailed Implementation

[0051] Referring to the accompanying drawings, a module of a modular conveyor belt of the type with a roller conveyor surface is indicated by 10, 100 indicates a modular conveyor belt consisting of modules 10 arranged side by side in a continuous row, wherein adjacent rows of modules 10 are connected to each other to form a closed loop, and 200 indicates a coherent motorized conveyor including such a belt 100.

[0052] It should be noted that in this specification, adjectives such as "first" and "second" are used merely for clarification and should never be interpreted in a restrictive sense. The same numbers are used to specify the corresponding elements.

[0053] Furthermore, in this specification, adjectives such as “front” and “back”, “up” and “down” refer to the general use of module 10 to form a closed-loop belt 100, which is driven by a pair of gears and forms an upper branch and a lower return branch for conveying products.

[0054] Module 10 is used to implement belt 100, which is used, for example, to transport bottles, cans or cartons individually or in groups.

[0055] The belt 100 involved in this invention is the so-called LBP (Low Back Pressure).

[0056] This belt 100 is used, for example, to convey products and simultaneously create so-called buffers or accumulation zones for products along the conveyor line, thereby guiding them through successive stations in the processing and / or packaging plant. For example, this belt 100 is used to create buffers or accumulation zones along the conveyor line between packaging stations and stacking stations.

[0057] First, refer to Figures 1 to 15 The first embodiment shown in the figure, wherein Figures 5 to 11B End module 10 is shown, i.e., used at the ends of each row of modules forming the band 100. As will be readily understood by those skilled in the art, the features of module 10 described with reference to end module 10 can also be found in end module 10a and intermediate module 10b with extensions of different lengths, for example... Figure 1 and 2 It is clearly shown in the text.

[0058] Module 10 includes a base 11 extending in length along a first direction D1 between two opposite sides 12 and 13.

[0059] The first direction D1 is transverse to the conveying direction of belt 100, and is orthogonal, as indicated by arrow DT.

[0060] Matrix 11 includes:

[0061] Upper surface 14 and lower surface 15,

[0062] The first longitudinal edge 16 and the second longitudinal edge 17 are opposite each other with respect to the second direction D2, which is orthogonal to the first direction D1.

[0063] The second direction, D2, is parallel to the conveying direction, DT.

[0064] The first longitudinal edge 16 and the second longitudinal edge 17 extend along the length of the base 11 in the first direction D1, taking into account the forward direction of the belt 100. One of them (the first longitudinal edge 16 in the figure) is in front and the other is behind (the second longitudinal edge 17 in the figure).

[0065] The matrix 11 further includes:

[0066] A plurality of first hinge elements 18 protrude from the first longitudinal edge 16 along the second direction D2, each of the first hinge elements being passed through a corresponding first hole 19, the axis 19A of which is parallel to the first direction D1, and the first holes 19 being coaxial with each other to receive a hinge pin 20.

[0067] A plurality of second hinge elements 21 protrude from the second longitudinal edge 17 along the second direction D2, each of which is passed through a corresponding second hole 22, the axis 22A of which is parallel to the first direction D1, and the second holes 22 are coaxial with each other to receive hinge pins 20.

[0068] The first hinge element 18 of each module 10 is adapted along the conveying direction DT to insert into the second hinge element 21 of the adjacent module 10 (in the figure, the module 10 immediately preceding it), such that the corresponding first hole 19 and second hole 22 are coaxially aligned to receive a common hinge pin 20 connecting the two adjacent modules 10 that follow each other along the conveying direction DT. Between the first hinge element 18 of each module 10 and the second hinge element 21 of the adjacent module 10, a plurality of spaces V remain open, in at least some of which receive at least one corresponding roller 23 coaxial with the aligned first hole 19 and the aligned second hole 22.

[0069] Each roller 23 has an outer radius R and is adapted to be rotatably mounted on a hinge pin 20 connecting two adjacent modules 10.

[0070] Each roller 23 is passed through an axial hole 24 adapted to receive a hinge pin 20.

[0071] Each roller 23 has a height L, which is substantially equal to the width of the corresponding space V, except for the necessary connecting gap to allow the roller 23 to rotate freely. If several rollers 23 are received in the same space V, the total height of the rollers is substantially equal to the width of the space V. For example, each roller 23 has a height of approximately 5 mm, and the space V has a width of approximately 5.4 mm. Therefore, in this application, "L" will represent the height of each roller 23 or the total height of the rollers 23 received in each space V, and the width of each space V, whose values ​​actually differ by a fraction of a millimeter, typically less than 0.5 mm.

[0072] Each roller 23 has a portion E that protrudes above the upper surface 14, not from zero. A plane parallel to the first direction D1 and the second direction D2 and tangent to the portion of the roller 23 protruding above the upper surface 14 defines the product conveying surface ST. Figure 4 In practice, it is well known that the product is placed directly on roller 23.

[0073] The amount E can vary between 0.5 mm and 2.5 mm, and is preferably 1 mm.

[0074] Module 10 further includes at least one meshing element adapted to mesh with the teeth of the drive gear 201 of the conveyor 200.

[0075] According to the invention, the lower surface 15 of the base 11 of each module 10 extends at least a portion along a plane parallel to the conveying surface ST, and this plane parallel to the conveying surface ST is spaced apart by a distance H from the plane passing through the axes 19A, 22A of the first hole 19 and the second hole 22A, the distance H being higher than the radius R of the roller 23, forming a support plane PA suitable for sliding contact along the slider track 202 of the conveyor 200. As can be clearly seen from the figures, the distance H is measured in a direction orthogonal to the support plane PA and the plane passing through the axes 19A, 22A of the first and second holes 19, 22.

[0076] In other words, the supporting plane PA is at a lower level than the plane PT tangent to the lower generatrix of each roller 23, which is the diameter-dependent generatrix of the plane tangent to the plane defining the conveying surface ST. The distance of the supporting plane PA from the conveying surface ST is greater than the distance of the plane PT tangent to the lower generatrix of the roller 23 relative to the same conveying surface ST, where the latter distance is equal to the outer diameter of the roller 23 (D = 2R). Figure 9 and 10 This is clearly shown in the image.

[0077] The support plane PA extends substantially along the entire length of the base 11, interrupting only when it corresponds to the engaging element.

[0078] In this way, the slider rails 202 can be freely arranged at any position along the width of the belt 100, regardless of the presence and position of the rollers 23. In other words, the arrangement and number of rollers 23 are not constrained by the number and size of the slider rails 202. The rollers 23 can be arranged along the entire length (belt width) of the base 11, and also correspond to the longitudinal sections of the base 11 that slide in contact with the slider rails 202, where no undesirable contact is created between the rollers 23 and the slide rails 23, and no undesirable acceleration of the conveyed products is caused. Therefore, the density of the "rolling" surface (i.e., where the rollers are provided), i.e., the rollers 23, can be increased to obtain a substantially continuous conveying surface ST with discontinuous areas of finite width (measured along the first direction D1), and advantageously, less than or equal to 20 mm. This allows for the safe and stable conveying of products of various sizes.

[0079] Furthermore, the increased extension of the support plane PA allows for a larger surface area in contact with the slider rail 202, which in turn reduces wear on the belt 100. In other words, a slider rail 202 with increased width can be used.

[0080] Preferably, the difference between the distance H and the radius R is not zero and is less than or equal to 5 mm: 0 mm < (HR) < 5 mm.

[0081] For example, this height difference (HR) can be between 2mm and 2.5mm.

[0082] This height difference (HR) represents the maximum thickness at which wear occurs.

[0083] It can be noted that the overall height of module 10 is still limited to approximately 15 mm; for example, for a roller 23 with an outer diameter D = 12 mm (D = 2R), a maximum thickness of substrate 11 of 13.20 mm, and a difference of 2.2 mm between distance H and the outer radius R of the roller, the total height of module 10 is 14.20 mm.

[0084] According to another aspect of the invention, at least some of the rollers 23 constitute meshing elements with the gear 201. This feature can also be employed independently of the feature where the support plane PA is at a lower level than the plane tangent to the lower generatrix of each roller 23. In particular, as will become clear below, it can also be employed in modules where the support plane PA is at a higher level than the plane tangent to the lower generatrix of each roller 23, for example... Figure 26-28 As shown.

[0085] Using rollers 23, which define the conveying surface ST, as meshing elements together with the drive gear 201 of the conveyor, can similarly increase the density of the "rolling" surface, i.e., rollers 23, in order to obtain a substantially continuous conveying surface ST with discontinuous areas of finite width (measured along the first direction D1), and advantageously, less than or equal to 20 mm. In fact, rollers 23 can be arranged in positions corresponding to the drive gear 201. This allows for the safe and stable conveying of products of various sizes.

[0086] Furthermore, using roller 23 as the meshing element can increase the number of such meshing elements without compromising the range of the rolling surface. This allows the use of drive gear 201 even with several tooth crowns.

[0087] In possible alternative embodiments, for example Figure 16-20 As shown in Figures 21-25, the meshing element is not composed of roller 23, but rather of components at least partially on the support plane PA. Figure 16-20 The recess 25 obtained on the lower surface 15 on the outer side is formed by, or by, the meshing teeth 26 extending downward from the lower surface 15 and outside the support plane PA. Figure 21-25 )constitute.

[0088] In the first case, the space V corresponding to the engaging element is replaced or occupied by the corresponding fixed support 27. In the second case, the space V corresponding to the engaging element can be replaced or occupied by the corresponding fixed support 27.

[0089] In a preferred embodiment, each said fixed support 27 is shaped such that it has an outer surface protruding above the upper surface 14 and tangent to the conveying surface ST, so as to ensure the basic continuity of the conveying surface. For example, the outer surface of each fixed support 27 may be a cylindrical sector, the radius of which is equal to the radius R of the roller 23, and its axis is coaxial with the axes 19A, 22A. Each fixed support 27 thus reproduces the corresponding roller 23. Each fixed support 27 is advantageously obtained integrally with the base 11.

[0090] The S is the distance between two spaces V adjacent to each other measured along the first direction D1, and according to the present invention, this distance is different from zero and less than or equal to 20 mm (0 mm < S ≤ 20 mm, preferably between 3 mm and 12 mm (3 mm ≤ S ≤ 12 mm). It is stipulated that if a specific space V is replaced by the corresponding fixed support 27, this condition also applies. By arranging the corresponding roller 23 in each space V, the distance S is defined between two adjacent product support elements, regardless of whether they are composed of the roller 23 or the fixed support 27.

[0091] By arranging the corresponding roller 23 in each space V, in addition to possibly obtaining meshing elements other than the roller 23 in the corresponding space V, a high density of rollers 23 can be obtained, and thus a substantially continuous roller conveying surface ST with discontinuous regions having a limited maximum width (measured along the first direction D1) can be obtained, and precisely equal to the distance S, advantageously, less than or equal to 20 mm.

[0092] In a preferred embodiment, the distance S between two spaces V, or in any case, the distance S between two adjacent support elements (rollers 23 and / or fixed supports 27) is between 3 mm and 6 mm (3 mm ≤ S ≤ 6 mm).

[0093] As described above, this feature (i.e., 0 mm < S ≤ 20 mm) can be adopted by the module 10, where the support plane PA is at a level lower than the plane tangent to the lower generatrix of each roller 23 as described above. However, as will become clearer below, it can also be adopted by different modules, where, in particular, the support plane PA is at a level higher than the plane tangent to the lower generatrix of each roller, for example, Figure 26-28 as shown.

[0094] By indicating the pitch of each module 10 with P, that is, the spacing between the axes 19a and 22A of the corresponding first hole 19 and second hole 22, advantageously, the ratio between the pitch P and the diameter D (i.e., the outer diameter) of each roller 23 is between 1.1 and 3:

[0095] 1.1 ≤ P / D ≤ 3

[0096] Where D = 2R.

[0097] In a preferred embodiment, the pitch P is approximately 15 mm (15.875 mm equals 5 / 8 inch), the diameter D is 12 mm, and the P / D ratio is 1.32. In this case, the diameter of the hinge pin 20 is preferably 4.6 mm.

[0098] The smaller the ratio P / D, the less discontinuity the roller 23 exhibits in the conveying direction DT.

[0099] Furthermore, "lateral pitch" is defined as the sum of the distance S between two adjacent spaces V, or in any case, the distance S between two adjacent support elements (rollers 23 and / or fixed supports 27), and the width L of each space V, or the height of the rollers 23 received in each space V (i.e., the total height of the rollers), or the height of the fixed supports 27 occupying / replacing a particular space V. The result is that the ratio between the sum of all these distances S and the sum of the lateral pitch (L+S) measured along the first direction D1 is between 0.10 and 0.90.

[0100]

[0101] in:

[0102] n = number of rollers

[0103] L = Height of the rollers housed in each space V

[0104] S = the distance between two spaces V, or in any case the distance between two adjacent support elements (roller 23 and / or fixed support 27).

[0105] In a preferred embodiment, the ratio varies between 0.40 and 0.60.

[0106] For example, for any value of the exponent i, with S = 5.6 mm and L = 5 mm, the result is a ratio of approximately 0.52.

[0107] The smaller the ratio, the larger the lateral "rolling" surface between the rollers with the same spacing "S".

[0108] More specifically, the substrate 11 includes a central rib 28 that extends in length between opposing sides 12, 13 and in thickness between an upper surface 14 and a lower surface 15. The central rib 28 then has a first longitudinal surface and a second longitudinal surface that connect the upper surface 14 and the lower surface 15 and define a first longitudinal edge 16 and a second longitudinal edge 17, respectively.

[0109] The support plane PA extends substantially continuously along the lower surface 15 along the entire length of the central rib 28, interrupting only when corresponding to the meshing element. Corresponding to the meshing element, it can be immediately understood that the central rib 28 may have an opening 280 for meshing the teeth of the drive gear 201.

[0110] The first hinge elements 18 are distributed in pairs and spaced apart from each other along the first longitudinal edge 16, wherein each pair of first hinge elements 18 is spaced apart to define a corresponding space V. The corresponding first space 29 remains defined between two pairs of adjacent first hinge elements 18 or between the head end of the base 11 and the adjacent pair of first hinge elements 18.

[0111] The second hinge elements 21 are distributed in pairs and spaced apart from each other along the second longitudinal edge 17, with each pair of second hinge elements 21 spaced apart to define a corresponding space V. The corresponding second space 30 remains defined between two pairs of adjacent second hinge elements 21 or between the head end of the base 11 and the adjacent pair of second hinge elements 21.

[0112] The pair of first hinge elements 18 are offset relative to the pair of second hinge elements 21 such that each pair of first hinge elements 18 of module 10 is positioned between two consecutive pairs of second hinge elements 21 of adjacent module 10 or between the head end of adjacent module 10 and the pair of second hinge elements 21 adjacent thereto by being inserted into the corresponding second space 30, and vice versa.

[0113] In a preferred but non-limiting embodiment, the paired first hinge element 18 and second hinge element 21 are evenly distributed along the entire length of the base 11.

[0114] exist Figures 1 to 15 In the illustrated embodiment, a corresponding roller 23 having a height L substantially equal to the width of the corresponding space V is received in each space V, and at least one pair of adjacent rollers 23 constitutes an engaging element.

[0115] In the first embodiment ( Figures 1 to 15 In this design, the combination of the feature that the support plane PA is arranged at a lower level than the plane tangent to the lower generatrix of each roller 23 and the feature that the same roller 23 is used as the meshing element according to it not only allows for maximizing the density of the rollers 23, but also allows the slider tracks 202 to be arranged in any position and allows for increasing their width.

[0116] Figures 12 to 14 The conveyor 200 is shown schematically and in part, comprising a belt 100 made of module 10 according to a first embodiment of the invention, an associated drive gear 201 consisting of a belt gear with two toothed crowns and a slider track 202, wherein the lateral drive gear also acts as a guide.

[0117] Figure 15 Showing Figures 12 to 14 The head passage between two continuous conveyors 200 of the type shown in the image. It should be noted that the opening corresponding to the head passage between one conveyor and the next has a limited width (approximately 20mm-25mm, particularly approximately 24mm). Correspondingly, a fixing plate 203 can (but is not necessary) be arranged without compromising the continuity and regularity of product transport and in compliance with safety regulations, according to which a limited space of less than 5mm is maintained between the wound belt 100 and the fixing plate 203.

[0118] Figures 16 to 20 The second possible embodiment of module 10 shown differs from the first embodiment only in that the engaging element is not composed of roller 23, but of recess 25. In this case, corresponding to recess 25, space V is replaced or occupied by a corresponding fixed support 27.

[0119] Figures 21 to 25 The third possible embodiment of module 10 shown differs from the first embodiment in that the meshing element is not composed of roller 23, but rather of gear teeth 26 protruding below the lower surface 15. In this case, corresponding to the gear teeth 26, the space V can be replaced or occupied by a corresponding fixed support 27, as a substitute for the roller. Furthermore, the central rib 28 has no opening 280.

[0120] Compared to the first embodiment, the second and third embodiments, as shown in the figures, have a smaller "rolled" surface in contact with the product. While restoring the continuity of the conveying surface ST, the fixed support 27 can generate movement (rotation, misalignment) of the conveyed product, which is partially resting on the fixed support and partially on the roller 23. Furthermore, in the third embodiment, the position of the slider track 202 is constrained by the presence of the meshing teeth 26.

[0121] As mentioned above, based on its characteristics:

[0122] a) Rollers 23 constituting the meshing element, and

[0123] b) The distance S between two continuous spaces V or between two support elements (consisting of roller 23 and possible fixed support 27)

[0124] It can be used alone or in combination of them, or it can be a feature that is arranged independently of the support plane PA at a lower level than the plane tangent to the lower generatrix of the roller 23, and it can also be combined with one or more other features of module 10 as described above.

[0125] Figures 26 to 28AThe third embodiment shown precisely illustrates the belt obtained via the connecting module 10', which integrates the two features a) and b) described above, but in which the support plane PA' is at a higher level than the plane PT tangent to the lower generatrix of the roller 23'. The support plane PA' is spaced by a distance H1 from the plane of the axis passing through the first and second holes of the hinge element, which is less than the radius R.

[0126] For the sake of simplicity, in Figures 26 to 28A In this context, the elements of module 10' corresponding to the elements of module 10 will be indicated by the same reference numbers marked with "'".

[0127] In this case, the lower surface 15' of the substrate 11' extends at least a section along a plane parallel to the conveying surface ST, and this plane is spaced apart by a distance H1 from the plane passing through the axis of the first and second holes, which is less than the radius R of the roller 23'.

[0128] This segment is defined to correspond to each of the first hinge element 18' and the second hinge element 21', which define the respective space for receiving the corresponding roller 23' and realize a support plane PA' suitable for sliding contact on the corresponding slider track 202'.

[0129] The support plane PA' also extends along each of the first hinge element 18' and the second hinge element 21', which define the corresponding space in which the respective roller 23' is received.

[0130] The slider track 202' is comb-shaped so as to operate on the support plane PA' between two or more pairs of rollers 23' adjacent to each other in the belt 100'. The slider track 202' is comb-shaped so as to preferably operate on the support plane PA' between each pair of rollers 23' adjacent to each other in the belt 100'.

[0131] As can be readily understood from the accompanying drawings, module 10' presents the aforementioned structural and operational features with reference to the first embodiment, except for the arrangement, extension, and continuity of the supporting plane PA'. For example, this refers to condition settings related to the ratio P / D or the ratio between the sum of distances S and the sum of lateral pitches L+S, or to the structure of the base, the first and second hinge elements, and the arrangement of the rollers.

[0132] Figure 29 and 29A Up to 29B, another alternative embodiment of module 10 according to the invention is shown, which is related to... Figures 1 to 15 The only difference between the embodiments shown is the shape of the base 11.

[0133] In all the embodiments described and shown above, the substrate 11 is made into a single body with first and second hinge elements. For example, it is made of plastic and obtained by molding.

[0134] Based on the description and accompanying drawings provided above, those skilled in the art can immediately understand the assembly and operation of the modules and belts according to the present invention.

[0135] Regarding assembly, when assembling belt 100, roller 23 can be arranged in space V, or it can be supported by the module base before assembling belt 100.

[0136] In practice, it has been found that the modules and modular strips according to the present invention achieve the intended purpose.

[0137] The support plane PA is positioned at a lower level than the plane tangent to the lower generatrix of roller 23, so that:

[0138] The slider track 202 is positioned anywhere along the entire length of each module and then along the entire width of the belt, regardless of the position of the rollers;

[0139] This makes the position of the roller independent of the position and size of the slider track 202;

[0140] To reduce wear on the module due to sliding contact with the slider track 202, the width of which can be appropriately determined because it is not limited by the presence or absence of rollers;

[0141] Increase the "rolling" surface, thereby increasing the density of the rollers and the continuity of the rolling surface.

[0142] Using roller 23 as the meshing element, the following can be achieved:

[0143] Increase the "rolling" surface, thereby increasing the density of the rollers and the continuity of the rolling surface.

[0144] The rollers should also be arranged to correspond to the drive gears;

[0145] Simplify the structure of the module itself.

[0146] The distribution of the spaces V or support elements is at least partially constituted by rollers 23, and if necessary by fixed supports 27, in a limited number, such that the maximum distance S (measured parallel to the first direction D1) between two consecutive spaces V or two support elements is not zero and is less than or equal to 20 mm, which allows:

[0147] Achieving high roller density;

[0148] Ensure safe and smooth transport of products.

[0149] For example, it has been found in practice that, using the module according to the invention, a rolling surface SR greater than 30% can be obtained, the rolling surface being quantified by the ratio of the total surface area of ​​the rollers to the surface area of ​​the belt:

[0150]

[0151] in:

[0152] L = Height of each roller [mm]

[0153] n = Number of rollers per pitch

[0154] D = Roller diameter [mm]

[0155] K = Width (mm)

[0156] P = Pitch [mm]

[0157] The strap according to the invention also appears to comply with the safety rules corresponding to the head passage.

[0158] The modular conveyor belt module with roller conveyor surface and the modular conveyor belt conceived therefrom are susceptible to numerous modifications and variations, all of which are within the scope of this invention; furthermore, all details can be replaced by technically equivalent components. In fact, the materials used and their dimensions can be of any type, depending on the technical requirements.

Claims

1. A module (10) of a modular conveyor belt (100) with roller conveying surfaces for a continuous motorized conveyor (200), comprising a base (11) extending in length along a first direction (D1) between two opposing sides (12, 13), said direction being transverse relative to the conveying direction (DT), and said base having: Upper surface (14) and lower surface (15). The first longitudinal edge (16) and the second longitudinal edge (17) are opposite to each other with respect to the second direction (D2) which is orthogonal to the first direction (D1). A plurality of first hinge elements (18) and a plurality of second hinge elements (21) protrude from the first longitudinal edge (16) and the second longitudinal edge, respectively, along the second direction (D2), wherein, Each of the first hinge elements (18) is passed through a corresponding first hole (19) with the axis of the first hole parallel to the first direction (D1), and each of the second hinge elements (21) is passed through a corresponding second hole (22) with the axis of the second hole parallel to the first direction (D1). The first holes (19) are coaxial with each other to receive a corresponding hinge pin (20), and the second holes (22) are coaxial with each other to receive a corresponding hinge pin (20). The first hinge element (18) is adapted to insert into a second hinge element (21) of another module (10), such that corresponding first holes (19) and second holes (22) are coaxially aligned to receive hinge pins (20) that connect the modules (10) to each other. The first hinge element (18) and the second hinge element (21) are inserted into each other, leaving a plurality of free spaces (V), in which at least some of the spaces are received corresponding rollers (23) having an outer radius (R) and coaxial with the aligned first holes (19) and second holes (22). Each of the rollers (23) protrudes a portion from the upper surface (14), and the surface that is parallel to the first direction (D1) and the second direction (D2) and tangent to the portion of the roller (23) protruding from the upper surface (14) defines the conveying surface (ST). And including At least one meshing element adapted to mesh with the teeth of the drive gear (201) of the continuously motorized conveyor. The lower surface (15) extends at least a portion along a plane parallel to the conveying surface (ST), and the plane parallel to the conveying surface is spaced apart by a distance (H) from the plane passing through the axis of the first hole (19) and the second hole (22), the distance being greater than the outer radius (R) of the roller (23), and the at least a portion of the lower surface (15) forms a support plane (PA) adapted to slide in contact along the slider track (202) of the continuous motorized conveyor.

2. The module (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least some of the rollers (23) constitute the engagement element.

3. The module (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The engagement element is formed by a recess (25) obtained at least partially on the lower surface (15) outside the support plane (PA).

4. The module (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The meshing element is composed of meshing teeth (26) that extend downward from the lower surface (15) outside the support plane (PA).

5. The module (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The support plane (PA) extends continuously along the lower surface (15) of the base (11) except for the remaining length when it corresponds to the engagement element, and the support plane (PA) is interrupted when it corresponds to the engagement element.

6. The module (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The difference between the distance (H) and the outer radius (R) is greater than zero and less than or equal to 5 mm.

7. The module (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The ratio of the pitch (P) of the module (10) to the diameter (D) of each of the rollers (23) is greater than or equal to 1.1 and less than or equal to 3, wherein the pitch (P) is equal to the distance between the axes of the first hole (19) and the second hole (22).

8. The module (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The distance (S) between two adjacent spaces (V) measured along the first direction (D1) is greater than zero and less than or equal to 20 mm.

9. The module (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The ratio between the sum of all lateral distances (S) between two adjacent spaces (V) measured along the first direction and the sum of the lateral pitches (L+S) measured along the first direction is between 0.10 and 0.

90.

10. The module (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, Each of the rollers (23) has a height measured along the first direction (D1) that is equal to the width (L) of the corresponding space (V) receiving the roller.

11. The module (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The substrate (11) includes a central rib (28) that extends in length between two opposing sides (12, 13) and in thickness between the upper surface (14) and the lower surface (15), wherein the central rib (28) has a first longitudinal surface and a second longitudinal surface that connect the upper surface (14) and the lower surface (15) and define the first longitudinal edge (16) and the second longitudinal edge (17), respectively.

12. The module (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: The first hinge elements (18) are distributed in pairs and spaced apart from each other along the first longitudinal edge (16), with each pair of first hinge elements (18) spaced apart from each other to define a corresponding space (V). The second hinge elements (21) are distributed in pairs and spaced apart from each other along the second longitudinal edge (17), with each pair of second hinge elements (21) spaced apart from each other to define a corresponding space (V). The first hinge element (18) in pairs is offset relative to the second hinge element (21) in pairs.

13. A module (10) of a modular conveyor belt (100) with roller conveying surfaces for a continuous motorized conveyor (200), comprising a base (11) extending in length along a first direction (D1) between two opposing sides (12, 13), said direction being transverse relative to the conveying direction (DT), and said base having: Upper surface (14) and lower surface (15). The first longitudinal edge (16) and the second longitudinal edge (17) are opposite to each other with respect to the second direction (D2) which is orthogonal to the first direction (D1). A plurality of first hinge elements (18) and a plurality of second hinge elements (21) protrude from the first longitudinal edge (16) and the second longitudinal edge, respectively, along the second direction (D2), wherein, Each of the first hinge elements (18) is passed through a corresponding first hole (19) with the axis of the first hole parallel to the first direction (D1), and each of the second hinge elements (21) is passed through a corresponding second hole (22) with the axis of the second hole parallel to the first direction (D1). The first holes (19) are coaxial with each other to receive a corresponding hinge pin (20), and the second holes (22) are coaxial with each other to receive a corresponding hinge pin (20). The first hinge element (18) is adapted to insert into a second hinge element (21) of another module (10), such that corresponding first holes (19) and second holes (22) are coaxially aligned to receive hinge pins (20) that connect the modules (10) to each other. The first hinge element (18) and the second hinge element (21) are inserted into each other, leaving a plurality of free spaces (V), in which at least some of the spaces are received corresponding rollers (23) having an outer radius (R) and coaxial with the aligned first holes (19) and second holes (22). Each of the rollers (23) protrudes a portion from the upper surface (14), and a plane parallel to the first direction (D1) and the second direction (D2) and tangent to the portion of the roller (23) protruding from the upper surface (14) defines the conveying surface (ST). And including At least one meshing element adapted to mesh with the teeth of the drive gear (201) of the continuously motorized conveyor. The characteristic is that at least some of the rollers (23) constitute the engagement element.

14. The module (10) according to claim 13, characterized in that, The ratio of the pitch (P) of the module (10) to the diameter (D) of each of the rollers (23) is greater than or equal to 1.1 and less than or equal to 3, wherein the pitch (P) is equal to the distance between the axes of the first hole (19) and the second hole (22).

15. The module (10) according to claim 13, characterized in that, The distance (S) between two adjacent spaces (V) measured along the first direction (D1) is greater than zero and less than or equal to 20 mm.

16. The module (10) according to claim 13, characterized in that, The ratio between the sum of all lateral distances (S) between two adjacent spaces (V) measured along the first direction and the sum of the lateral pitches (L+S) measured along the first direction is between 0.10 and 0.

90.

17. The module (10) according to claim 13, characterized in that, Each of the rollers (23) has a height measured along the first direction (D1) that is equal to the width (L) of the corresponding space (V) receiving the roller.

18. The module (10) according to claim 13, characterized in that, The base (11) includes a central rib (28) extending in length between two opposing sides (12, 13) and in thickness between the upper surface (14) and the lower surface (15), wherein the central rib (28) has a first longitudinal surface and a second longitudinal surface connecting the upper surface (14) and the lower surface (15) and defining the first longitudinal edge (16) and the second longitudinal edge (17) respectively, the lower surface (15) extending at least a portion along a plane parallel to the conveying surface (ST), the at least a portion forming a support plane (PA), the support plane (PA) extending continuously along the lower surface (15) of the base (11) except for the remaining length when corresponding to the engagement element, the support plane (PA) being interrupted when corresponding to the engagement element.

19. The module (10) according to claim 13, characterized in that: The first hinge elements (18) are distributed in pairs and spaced apart from each other along the first longitudinal edge (16), with each pair of first hinge elements (18) spaced apart from each other to define a corresponding space (V). The second hinge elements (21) are distributed in pairs and spaced apart from each other along the second longitudinal edge (17), with each pair of second hinge elements (21) spaced apart from each other to define a corresponding space (V). The first hinge element (18) in pairs is offset relative to the second hinge element (21) in pairs.

20. The module (10) according to claim 19, characterized in that, At least one roller (23) is received in each of the spaces (V).

21. The module (10) according to claim 19, characterized in that, At least one roller (23) is received in each of the spaces (V), except for the one corresponding to the engagement element, wherein the space (V) is replaced or occupied by a fixed support (27) whose outer surface is tangent to the plane defining the conveying surface (ST).

22. The module according to claim 13, characterized in that, The lower surface extends at least a portion along a plane parallel to the conveying surface (ST), and the plane parallel to the conveying surface is spaced apart by a distance (H1) from the plane passing through the axes of the first hole and the second hole, the distance being less than the outer radius (R) of the roller. The at least a portion of the lower surface is defined to correspond to each of the first hinge element and the second hinge element and to realize a support plane adapted to slide contact on the corresponding slider track of the continuous motorized conveyor.

23. A modular conveyor belt comprising a plurality of modules according to any one of the preceding claims, the modules being arranged adjacent to each other along the conveying direction (DT) and connected to each other by the hinge pins to form a closed loop.

24. A continuous motorized conveyor (200) comprising a modular conveyor belt according to claim 23 and at least one pair of drive gears (201), the conveyor belt being wound around the drive gears and the drive gears engaging with the meshing element.

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