Conveyor belt and method for closing conveyor belt

Abstract

The invention relates to a conveyor belt (1) comprising a first end and a second end (1a; 1b) defining a connector with a series of apertures (5a). In order to close the conveyor belt, the connectors are alternately arranged with a series of holes (5a) facing each other to form a through hole. The pin (6) is formed by a first portion (6a) and a second portion (6b), both of which terminate in an annular button. The two parts (6a, 6b) pass through the aperture (5a) and meet in a single connector.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a conveyor belt and a method for closing a conveyor belt. Background Art

[0002] For transporting products, it is known to use conveyors with conveyor belts. The conveyor belt can be an openable belt, i.e., a belt whose two opposite ends are joined to define a loop as shown in document US2012 / 0217139. This document shows a closing system having a series of loops at each end. The two series of loops can be connected by U-shaped connectors, each wing of the U-shaped connector being inserted into one of the series of loops. The structure of this closing system does not seem suitable for transporting food products that may get stuck in the closing system..

[0003] It is also known from document US 5,662,211 that the two ends of the conveyor belt are connected by a hinge pin inserted into a hole. The hole is defined by a first clip formed at the first end of the conveyor belt and a second clip formed at the opposite end. This construction allows the first clip to rotate substantially relative to the second clip, which is not conducive to good control of bacterial growth when transporting food products. In addition, the hinge pin consists of two parts and is designed to be fully fixed in the conveyor belt. The belt defines a cavity such that deformable arms arranged at the ends of the hinge pin can deflect into the cavity to prevent unwanted detachment of the parts of the hinge pin.

[0004] For transporting products, such as food products, it is known to use conveyors equipped with belts. The belt is usually made of a polymeric material.

[0005] As shown in document US 2009 / 0301845, the belt of the conveyor is in the form of an openable loop, i.e., the first end and the second end of the belt are separable. To open and close the belt, it is known to form a series of tabs at each end. Two sets of tabs are arranged alternately to close the conveyor belt, which define a series of holes at the first end and a series of holes at the second end. The two sets of holes are arranged facing each other, and pins alternately pass through the holes at the first end and the second end. The pins prevent the two ends from separating from each other. Depending on the configuration, the pins are mounted in a removable or non-removable manner.

[0006] The conveyor belt is driven by a drive wheel. The conveyor belt deforms according to the curvature applied by the drive wheel. The conveyor belt is closed by two sets of tabs and is passed through by a fixed pin, thereby forming a textured area where the gaps can easily cause impurities that are difficult to clean to enter. In the food field, it is particularly important that the conveyor belt remains as neutral as possible with respect to the food it transports, and in particular, it is necessary to avoid causing bacterial contamination.

[0007] Using a single through - hole with a circular cross - section results in the formation of a pivot point between two sets of jaws, which deform differently and allow food to enter between the two jaws, and this is not conducive to the normal operation of the conveyor belt. To reduce this phenomenon, it is recommended to use through - holes with non - circular cross - sections and fixing pins. This configuration is difficult to implement and has poor effects.

[0008] In the same document, it is known to form two sets of holes at the first and second ends of the conveyor belt, and these holes are designed to be opposite to each other to close the conveyor belt. These two through - holes are filled with two pins. These two holes are located within two teeth that drive the conveyor belt.

[0009] Similarly, since the part defined by the two pins deforms differently from the rest of the conveyor belt, the observed function is clearly not optimal, which complicates the operation of accessories (especially scrapers). It is also obvious that the connection between the two ends of the openable belt is easily contaminated by bacteria generated by food sticking in the closed area.

[0010] In one embodiment, several pins are inserted into the same through - hole, which means that the filling of the cross - section forming the through - hole is very incomplete, thus forming empty areas that may store impurities.

[0011] In another embodiment, a pin is inserted into the through - hole and then cut to a length equal to the width of the conveyor belt. The adjustment of the length of the pin to the width of the conveyor belt is approximate, which results in the connection area between the pin and the side wall being prone to bacterial contamination.

[0012] It is also known to install a pin in the through - hole and then melt the end of the pin to make the pin non - removable. The shape of the molten bead is difficult to master, resulting in the molten bead presenting a random shape with depressions that are difficult to clean, which is not conducive to effectively controlling bacterial contamination. Summary of the Invention

[0013] An object of the present invention is to provide a conveyor belt that enables the formation of a closed area, the mechanical properties of which are close to those outside the closed area, and in which, compared with the prior - art structures, the bacterial contamination associated with the closed area is better controlled, while enabling the closing device to be easily disassembled for cleaning when needed.

[0014] This problem can be overcome by a conveyor belt comprising:

[0015] - A first end that defines a first jaw having at least a first series of holes with a first diameter;

[0016] - A second end that defines a second clamping piece having at least a first series of holes with the first diameter, and in the closed position of the conveyor belt, the first clamping piece and the second clamping piece are arranged alternately, and the first series of holes are aligned to form a first through hole extending across the entire width of the conveyor belt;

[0017] - A first pin that passes through the first series of holes to fix the first end and the second end, and the first pin is removable relative to the first end and the second end.

[0018] The remarkable feature of this closing device is that the first pin is formed by a first component and a second component, and each of the first component and the second component includes a stroke end stop that determines the maximum press-in amount of each of the first component and the second component in the first through hole.

[0019] Each stroke end stop forms a button that defines a continuous annular contact area with the side surface of one of the first clamping piece and the second clamping piece around both ends of the first through hole. The first component and the second component are joined to each other in the same clamping piece among the first clamping piece and the second clamping piece.

[0020] Advantageously, the first part and the second part define an empty area inside the clamping piece.

[0021] In a specific configuration, the thickness of the stroke end stop is at least 10% greater than the first diameter and less than the average thickness of the first clamping piece and the second clamping piece.

[0022] Preferably, the closing device of the conveyor belt only includes the first pin. The clamping piece receives the end of the first part, and the end of the second part is located at the central third in the transverse direction.

[0023] According to an embodiment, the closing device of the openable conveyor belt includes a first pin and a second pin that are offset in the longitudinal direction of the conveyor belt. Both the first pin and the second pin are formed in two parts. The clamping piece that receives the end of the first part and the end of the second part of the first pin is located at the first third in the transverse direction and is different from the clamping piece that receives the end of the first part and the end of the second part of the second pin.

[0024] According to another embodiment, the closing device of the openable conveyor belt includes a first pin and a second pin that are offset in the longitudinal direction of the conveyor belt. Each of the first pin and the second pin is formed in two parts. The stroke end stops of the first part of the first pin and the first part of the second pin are integral to form a reinforcing member whose thickness is greater than or equal to the average diameter of the first pin and the second pin and is at least less than the thickness of the first clamping piece and the second clamping piece between the first pin and the second pin.

[0025] Another object of the present invention is to provide a conveyor belt with a closure device, in which the pin-related bacterial contamination of the closure device is better controlled compared to the prior art construction, while enabling the closure device to be easily disassembled for cleaning the closure device when necessary.

[0026] This result can be achieved by a conveyor belt including a closure device according to any of the above configurations.

[0027] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a method for closing a conveyor belt that is easier to use than prior art belts and improves the control of bacterial contamination.

[0028] This result is preferably achieved by a method for closing a conveyor belt, the method comprising:

[0029] - providing a conveyor belt having a first end defining a first clip and a second end defining a second clip, the first clip having at least a first series of holes with a first diameter, the second clip having at least a first series of holes with the first diameter,

[0030] - closing the conveyor belt such that the first clip and the second clip alternate and the first series of holes are aligned to form a first through-hole extending across the entire width of the conveyor belt;

[0031] - inserting a first portion of a first pin through the first series of holes to secure the first end and the second end, the first portion of the first pin being removable relative to the first end and the second end and terminating in one of the first clip and the second clip;

[0032] - inserting a second portion of the first pin through the first series of holes to secure the first end and the second end, the second portion of the first pin being removable relative to the first end and the second end and terminating in the clip of the first clip and the second clip. Description of the Drawings

[0033] Other advantages and features will become more apparent from the following description of specific embodiments and implementations of the invention given by way of non-limiting example only and shown in the drawings, in which:

[0034] Figure 1 A perspective view of a conveyor provided with a conveyor belt and a driving wheel is schematically shown;

[0035] Figure 2A perspective view schematically shows a closing device of a conveyor belt according to the present invention;

[0036] Figure 3 A longitudinal sectional view schematically shows a clamping piece of the closing device, with the conveyor belt open;

[0037] Figure 4 A top view schematically shows an embodiment of the closing device in a closed position;

[0038] Figure 5 A side view schematically shows the closing device in a closed position;

[0039] Figure 6 A perspective view schematically shows one end of a conveyor belt having a series of clamping pieces;

[0040] Figure 7 A sectional view schematically shows an embodiment of the closing device in a closed position, where the pin is composed of two parts;

[0041] Figure 8 A top view schematically shows two pins during the process of being inserted into the clamping piece of the closing device;

[0042] Figure 9 A perspective view schematically shows a closing device of a conveyor belt, which is deformed to follow the curvature of a wheel, and the closing device is in an open position;

[0043] Figure 10 A perspective view schematically shows the inner surface of one end of a conveyor belt;

[0044] Figure 11 A perspective view schematically shows a closing device of a conveyor belt, which is deformed to follow the curvature of a wheel, and the closing device is in a closed position with the pin partially withdrawn;

[0045] Figure 12 A perspective view schematically shows the closing device in contact with a wheel;

[0046] Figure 13 A sectional view schematically shows the closing device, where the pin is pressed in and the pin is composed of two parts;

[0047] Figure 14 A sectional view schematically shows the closing device, where the pin is pressed in, the pin is composed of two parts, and the pin is provided with a blocking member;

[0048] Figure 15 A perspective view schematically shows two pins connected by a reinforcing member;

[0049] Figure 16A cross-sectional view schematically shows a closing device of a conveyor belt that rotates around a gear;

[0050] Figure 17 A perspective view schematically shows a closing device that rotates around a gear and contacts a scraper;

[0051] Figure 18 A perspective view schematically shows a closing device deformed to follow the curvature of a gear, and the closing device is offset from the gear to show the structure of the clamping piece;

[0052] Figure 19 A side view schematically shows another embodiment of a closing device of a conveyor belt that rotates around a gear and contacts a scraper;

[0053] Figure 20 A perspective view schematically shows a closing device provided with a single pin, and the single pin has an annular travel end stop;

[0054] Figure 21 Schematically shows Figure 20 a perspective view of the closing device, and the pin is partially withdrawn;

[0055] Figure 22 Schematically shows Figure 20 a cross-sectional view of the closing device;

[0056] Figure 23 Schematically shows Figure 20 a cross-sectional view of the closing device, and the pin is composed of two parts that are joined to each other in the same clamping piece;

[0057] Figure 24 Schematically shows Figure 20 a cross-sectional view of the closing device, and the pin is composed of two parts, and the middle positions of the two parts in the width direction are joined to each other in the same clamping piece. Detailed Description of the Invention

[0058] Figure 1 A conveyor equipped with a conveyor belt 1 is shown. The conveyor belt 1 is driven to move by a driving device, and the driving device is partially represented by a first wheel 2 and a second wheel 3. The first wheel 2 is a driving wheel, and the second wheel 3 can be a driving wheel or an idler wheel. The driving of the conveyor belt 1 by the first wheel 2 and the second wheel 3 (if this is the case) can be achieved by a plurality of teeth 4 that form a transverse beam. The teeth 4 mainly extend in the transverse direction YY corresponding to the width of the conveyor belt 1. The driving wheel 2 is connected to a motor and is preferably a spur gear equipped with teeth 2a. The teeth 4 of the conveyor belt 1 are repeated at a repeating pitch P in the longitudinal direction XX.

[0059] The conveyor belt 1 is an openable conveyor belt and is provided with a closing device 5. Figure 1 and2 shows the conveyor belt 1 in the closed state, while Figure 9 shows the conveyor belt 1 in the open state.

[0060] As Figures 1 to 2 shown in FIG. 5, the closing device 5 of the conveyor belt 1 includes a first end 1a and a second end 1b. The first end 1a defines a plurality of first clips 1c, and the second end 1b defines a plurality of second clips 1d. The first clips 1c project in the longitudinal direction XX, thereby forming an alternation between the protruding regions and the recesses as Figure 10 shown. The second clips 1d project in the longitudinal direction XX, thereby forming an alternation between the protruding regions and the recesses as Figure 6 shown..

[0061] To close the conveyor belt 1, the first clips 1c are inserted between the second clips 1d, and vice versa. As Figure 4 、 Figure 7 and Figures 11 to 14 shown, in the closed position of the conveyor belt 1, there is an alternation between the first clips 1c and the second clips 1d in the transverse direction YY. When the conveyor belt 1 is closed, the conveyor belt 1 defines a loop. The conveyor belt 1 has an inner surface A and an outer surface B that are opposite to each other in the ZZ direction of a defined thickness. When the conveyor belt 1 is open, the first end 1a and the second end 1b are opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction XX, and the longitudinal direction XX is perpendicular to the transverse direction YY and perpendicular to the thickness direction ZZ.

[0062] As Figure 3 、 Figure 5 、 Figure 6 、 Figure 9 、 Figure 10 、 Figure 11 、 Figure 13 and Figure 14 shown, the first clips 1c and the second clips 1d each define a first series of holes 5a and a second series of holes 5b. The holes of the first series of holes 5a are offset from the holes of the second series of holes 5b in the longitudinal direction XX. When the conveyor belt 1 is closed, the holes of the first series of holes 5a of the first end 1a and the second end 1b are alternately aligned one by one in the transverse direction YY to form a first through hole extending across the entire width of the conveyor belt 1. When the conveyor belt 1 is closed, the holes of the second series of holes 5b of the first end 1a and the holes of the second series of holes 5b of the second end 1b are alternately aligned one by one in the transverse direction YY to form a second through hole extending across the entire width of the conveyor belt 1. Advantageously, the holes have a circular cross-section to facilitate insertion.

[0063] The first pin 6 is inserted into the first series of holes 5a to close the conveyor belt 1 and fix the first end 1a to the second end 1b. The second pin 7 is inserted into the second series of holes 5b to close the conveyor belt 1 and fix the two ends. The first pin 6 and the second pin 7 pass through the first series of holes 5a and the second series of holes 5b to fix the two ends. The first pin 6 is offset from the second pin 7 in the longitudinal direction XX of the conveyor belt 1. When the conveyor belt 1 is open, the conveyor belt 1 has a generally rectangular shape. The longitudinal direction XX is the direction of the largest dimension. The longitudinal direction XX is perpendicular to the transverse direction YY. The length is greater than the width, and the width is greater than the thickness. The pins 6 and 7 extend across the entire width so as to form a fastening between all the first tabs 1c and the second tabs 1d. The first pin 6 and / or the second pin 7 are preferably removably mounted relative to the first end 1a and the second end 2b.

[0064] Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figure 13 , Figure 14 and Figures 16 to 24 shows the closing device 5 in the position of closing the conveyor belt 1. The first tabs 1c and the second tabs 1d are alternately arranged in the transverse direction YY, and the pins 6 and 7 alternately pass through the first tabs 1c and the second tabs 1d to fix the two ends to each other. In a preferred manner, the first pin 6 has a circular cross-section with a first diameter. Equally advantageously, the second pin 7 has a circular cross-section with a second diameter. In an even more advantageous manner, the first diameter is equal to the second diameter.

[0065] To form a closing device that has mechanical properties closer to the rest of the conveyor belt in the closed position, it is advantageous to provide a closing device that prevents the first end 1a from rotating relative to the second end 1b. It is also advantageous to provide a simple construction to facilitate the assembly and closing of the conveyor belt 1. It is further advantageous to attempt to provide a configuration that allows the use of first tabs 1c and second tabs 1d with simple shapes to make the cleaning of the closing device 5 easier to perform.

[0066] To prevent the first end 1a from rotating relative to the second end 1b, it is advantageous to use the first pin 6 and the second pin 7 mounted in two different holes offset in the longitudinal direction XX.

[0067] However, although the use of two pins makes it possible to limit or even prevent the jaws of the closing device from rotating relative to each other, it has been observed that the structure of the closing device itself results in insufficient strength, which means that gaps appear when the conveyor belt makes one full rotation. This can cause substances to remain on the closing device and may lead to bacterial growth. Contrary to expectations, it has been observed that locally increasing the strength of the closing device can reduce bacterial growth by limiting the appearance of gaps, without making the operation management of the closing device along wheels 2 and 3 overly complex.

[0068] In order to locally increase the strength of the closing device 5 in the closed position without increasing the size of the closing device 5, it is advantageous to have a spacing distance D between the central axis of the first pin 6 and the central axis of the second pin 7 that is less than four or three times the average diameter of the first pin 6 and the second pin 7. This particularly enables the area located between the two pins to be strengthened. When the pins 6 / 7 have a circular cross-section, the central axis corresponds to the center of the circle. When the cross-section of the pin is different from circular, the central axis follows the centroid of the different cross-sections perpendicular to the YY direction. The average diameter is equal to the sum of the first diameter and the second diameter divided by two.

[0069] When the distance between the central axes of the first pin 6 and the second pin 7 becomes too large, the closing device 5 will exhibit a large sag, and when the closing device 5 runs along the first wheel 2 or the second wheel 3, its mechanical properties will be more difficult to control.

[0070] As Figure 4 shown, it is particularly advantageous that the separation distance D is less than four times the average diameter of the first pin 6 and the second pin 7, and even more preferably less than three times the average diameter of the first pin 6 and the second pin 7, or even equal to twice the average diameter of the first pin 6 and the second pin 7.

[0071] In an advantageous manner, the first jaw 1c of the first end 1a and the second jaw 1d of the second end 1b have a simple shape, such as a rectangular, square, semi-circular or semi-ovoid cross-section. In a preferred manner, the first jaw 1c and the second jaw 1d have a terminal with a convex shape in the XX direction, i.e., curved outwards. Using a simple, preferably convex shape makes it easier to clean the jaws. Using a shape that does not present any concave surfaces or presents concave surfaces with a small radius of curvature makes it easier to clean the closing device 5 and prevents the proliferation of bacteria when the conveyor belt 1 transports food.

[0072] Particularly advantageous is to have a first end 1a with a first clip 1c, the first clip 1c being terminated by an arc connecting the inner surface A and the outer surface B. The second end 1b has a concave surface in the form of an arc whose shape is complementary to the end portion of the first clip 1c. The situation is also advantageous for the second clip 1d and the relative part of the first end 1a (i.e., between the opposite clips). Using arcs of opposite polarities makes it easier to clean between the clips. The two complementary shapes facilitate cleaning. Preferably, the radius of curvature of the arc is less than the distance between the end wall of the clip defining the arc and the center of the nearest through-hole.

[0073] Preferably, the first pin 6 is separated from the second pin 7 by a distance C which is less than twice the average diameter of the first pin 6 and the second pin 7, and more preferably less than 1.5 times the average diameter of the first pin 6 and the second pin 7. Even more preferably, the first pin 6 is separated from the second pin 7 by a distance C which is greater than or equal to 0.5 times the average diameter of the first pin 6 and the second pin 7, and even more preferably greater than or equal to 0.75 times the average diameter of the first pin 6 and the second pin 7, or greater than once the average diameter of the first pin 6 and the second pin 7. When the distance C is less than 0.5 times the average diameter, this may result in impaired mechanical properties. Moving the first pin 6 and the second pin 7 towards each other unexpectedly results in an increase in mechanical strength without significantly impairing the tear strength. This configuration is more advantageous than a single thicker pin or two thicker pins positioned further apart from each other.

[0074] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the two pins 6 and 7 have a circular cross-section with a diameter equal to a first value, and the two pins 6 and 7 are separated by a distance equal to the first value.

[0075] Using pins with a circular cross-section or each pin makes it easier to insert the pins into a series of holes with complementary shapes, i.e., the holes with a circular cross-section have a diameter substantially the same as the diameter of the pins. Since the pins and the holes have substantially the same cross-section, the first end portion can be effectively fixed to the second end portion, resulting in a mechanical behavior of the fastening region closer to the mechanical behavior of the rest of the conveyor belt.

[0076] By moving the first pin 6 and the second pin 7 towards each other and adjusting the ratio between the diameter of the pins and the thickness of the clip, the closing device can be strengthened without significantly increasing the size of the closing device 5.

[0077] Using two pins 6 and 7 offset in the XX direction to fix the clip enables limiting or even preventing the rotation of the two clips relative to each other. However, this configuration cannot prevent the presence of undesirable mechanical properties at the ends of the clips. Then, it is sought to form hard points between the two pins and advantageously slightly around the two pins such that the clip is almost non-deformable during the rotation phase to avoid releasing areas that are difficult to access and thus conducive to bacterial proliferation.

[0078] By using two pins connecting two clips, the rotation of the clips relative to each other is prevented. By increasing the thickness of the clips relative to the rest of the conveyor belt, the strength of the closing device 5 in the closed position can be increased to be close to or even exceed the strength of the rest of the conveyor belt.

[0079] Using clips 1c and 1d that are thicker than the rest of the conveyor belt 1 enables the closing device 5 to be strengthened to obtain performance closer to that of the rest of the conveyor belt 1. Using clips 1c and 1d with a thickness less than or equal to twice the thickness of the rest of the conveyor belt 1 and pins 6 and 7 that are closer to each other enables a closing device 5 to be formed that has mechanical properties close to or the same as those of the rest of the conveyor belt 1. The doubling of the thickness between the clips 6 and 7 and the rest of the conveyor belt 1 can be managed by a device associated with the conveyor belt 1, such as a scraper 8 arranged to scrape the outer surface B. This technical solution is particularly advantageous because its implementation is simple while limiting the size of the closing device 5.

[0080] Advantageously, both the average thickness of the first clip 1c and the thickness of the second clip 1d are less than or equal to twice the average thickness of the conveyor belt 1 and are at least 10% greater than the average thickness of the conveyor belt 1. The average thickness is calculated in the XX direction from one end to the other end, without considering the teeth 4 (if any) used to drive the conveyor belt 1.

[0081] Preferably, the thickness of the first clip 1c and the second clip 1d is constant or substantially constant at least from one end of the first hole 5a to the opposite end of the second hole 5b. The ends correspond to the opposite ends that are farthest apart in the XX direction. More preferably, the thickness is constant and equal to twice the average thickness of the conveyor belt outside the first and second clips.

[0082] To make the mechanical properties of the closing device 5 for closing the conveyor belt 1 close to the mechanical properties of the rest of the conveyor belt, it is advantageous to limit the length of the clips. Preferably, the first clip 1c and the second clip 1d extend in the longitudinal direction XX of the conveyor belt 1 for a distance less than or equal to five or six times the average diameter of the first pin 6 and the second pin 7. It is advantageous to have clips with a length less than four or three times the separation distance (i.e., distance D) between the central axes of the pins 6 and 7. It is also preferred that the length of the clip is less than 10 times the average thickness of the clip, advantageously less than 5 times the average thickness of the clip.

[0083] This length is calculated as the dimension protruding from the side in the XX direction, i.e., the overlapping length between the first clip 1c and the second clip 1d. Limiting the length of the clip in this way allows for the use of thin clips, such as clips with an average thickness less than three times the thickness of the rest of the conveyor belt 1, or even less than or equal to twice the thickness of the rest of the conveyor belt 1. The thickness of the clip is at least equal to that of the rest of the conveyor belt 1, i.e., the thickness between the first end 1a and the second end 1b outside the closing device 5. If there are teeth 4, the teeth 4 are ignored when measuring the thickness. Since the closing device 5 occupies a relatively small surface area relative to the conveyor belt 1, the average thickness of the conveyor belt 1 (without considering possible teeth 4) can be close to the thickness of the rest of the conveyor belt 1.

[0084] To increase the strength of the closing device 5, it is preferable that the increased thickness of the clip extends into the overlapping area, and the extension distance is less than the overlapping area. Preferably, the thickness continuously increases in the XX direction until the starting point of the protruding part, and even more preferably, it does not reach the height of the through-hole in the ZZ direction. The overlapping area is the overlapping area between the clips 1c and 1d in the YY direction.

[0085] By increasing the strength of the closing device 5, the stress applied to the pin is increased. To prevent the pins connecting the clips from being subjected to excessive shear stress, it is advantageous to increase the width of the clips. Preferably, the widths of the first clip and the second clip are greater than twice the average diameter of the first pin 6 and the second pin 7, preferably greater than 2.5 times or three times. The width is measured in the YY direction. By using the fastening with two pins, the repeating pitch of the clips can be increased.

[0086] To provide a closing device 5 having a strength closer to that of the rest of the conveyor belt, it is preferable to have a first clip and a second clip with a width greater than twice the average thickness of the conveyor belt, and more preferably greater than three times the average thickness of the conveyor belt.

[0087] More preferably, the widths of the first clip and the second clip are greater than twice the average diameter of the first pin and the second pin and greater than twice the average thickness of the conveyor belt, so as to reduce the shear stress on the pins 6 and 7.

[0088] Advantageously, the conveyor belt 1 is made of a polymer material, preferably made of a single material, such as made of polyurethane. Particularly advantageously, the closing device 5 is integrally formed with the rest of the conveyor belt 1 except for the pins.

[0089] Advantageously, the first pin 6 is made of a metal or polymer material. When the first pin 6 is made of a polymer material, preferably, the first pin 6 is made of the same material as the material of the conveyor belt 1. It is also advantageous to select a material having a Young's modulus equal to or higher than the Young's modulus of the material forming the rest of the conveyor belt (preferably the gripper). With such a material, a pin for strengthening the closing device can be formed. The second pin 7 is preferably made of the same material as the first pin 6.

[0090] In a preferred manner, the average thickness of the conveyor belt 1 between the first pin 6 and the second pin 7 (i.e., the thickness of the first gripper 1c and the second gripper 1d) is less than three times the average diameter of the first pin 6 and the second pin 7. In a preferred manner, the average thickness of the first gripper and the second gripper is between 1.5 times and 2.5 times the average diameter of the first pin 6 and the second pin 7, preferably equal to twice the average diameter of the first pin 6 and the second pin 7. Such a configuration enables the closing device 5 to be well strengthened without significantly increasing the size of the closing device 5. The average thickness is measured in the portion protruding in the XX direction.

[0091] Particularly advantageously, the average diameter of the pins 6 and 7 is at least equal to half of the average thickness of the conveyor belt 1 between its two ends and outside the closing device, more preferably at least equal to 0.75 times the average thickness, or even greater than or equal to the thickness of the conveyor belt between its two ends and outside the closing device. Advantageously, the thickness does not exceed 1.25 times the average thickness of the conveyor belt 1 between its two ends and outside the closing device 5.

[0092] In an advantageous embodiment, the diameter of the first pin 6 and the diameter of the second pin 7 are greater than 0.5 times the average thickness of the conveyor belt 1 measured from one end to the other in the longitudinal direction XX of the conveyor belt 1 and from one end to the other in the transverse direction YY of the conveyor belt 1. Preferably, the diameter of the first pin 6 and the diameter of the second pin 7 are greater than 0.75 times or 0.8 times the average thickness of the conveyor belt 1. This average thickness is measured without including the teeth 4 (if any). Advantageously, the diameters of the pins 6 and 7 are not too small so as not to weaken the pins. By using pins with a diameter close to the average thickness of the conveyor belt, pins with a mechanical strength compatible with the stresses borne by the conveyor belt 1 can be formed without increasing the size of the closing device 5.

[0093] Advantageously, the diameter of the first pin 6 and the diameter of the second pin 7 are less than 1.5 times the average thickness of the conveyor belt 1 measured from one end to the other in the longitudinal direction XX of the conveyor belt 1 and from one end to the other in the transverse direction YY of the conveyor belt 1. This avoids the formation of an overly thick closing device 5. When the closing device is too thick, the use of the conveyor belt is more difficult because the additional thickness changes the performance of the closing device 5 relative to the rest of the conveyor belt 1. This also complicates the use of the drive mechanism of the conveyor belt and / or the scraper 8 designed to scrape the outer surface B of the conveyor belt. Figure 17 An embodiment with a scraper 8 is shown, which presses on the outer surface B of the conveyor belt 1.

[0094] Advantageously, the closing device 5 for fixing the first end 1a to the second end 1b represents an area where the average thickness is greater than or equal to the average thickness of the conveyor belt 1 outside the closing device 5, and the teeth 4 (if any) are not considered. The increased thickness strengthens the area located between the two pins 6 and 7 so as to have a bend closer to the rest of the conveyor belt 1.

[0095] In a preferred manner, the first tab 1c and the second tab 1d are thicker than the rest of the conveyor belt 1 except for the teeth 4 (if any). Preferably, the first tab 1c and the second tab 1d have the same average thickness and are arranged to form a first area whose outer surface is flat to facilitate cleaning of the closing device 5. The outer surface of the tab can be offset outwards compared to the outer surface B of the conveyor belt 1 outside the closing device 5. In a preferred manner, the first tab 1c projects from the inner surface A of the conveyor belt 1. Such an embodiment is shown in Figure 3 and Figure 5 shown in Figure 3 and Figure 5 shows a tab, the thickness of which is approximately twice the thickness of the rest of the conveyor belt 1. Compared with the conveyor belt 1 outside the closing device 5, a part of the additional thickness is arranged to project from the outer surface B, and a part of the additional thickness is arranged to project from the inner surface A. In the Figure 3 specific embodiment shown, the thickness of the tab increases and then decreases until the end of the circular arc is reached. The thickness of the tab increases until one end of the hole is reached, and then the thickness decreases until the terminal in the form of a circular arc is reached. An increase and then a decrease in thickness are observed in the longitudinal direction XX from the fixing area of the tab to the conveyor belt to the terminal of the tab.

[0096] The first tab 1c is firmly fixed to the conveyor belt. Increasing the thickness to form the first tab 1c results in strengthening of the first end 1a. The same is true for the second tab 1d.

[0097] When the conveyor belt 1 is designed to engage with the drive gear, it is advantageous that the first pin 6 and the second pin 7 are arranged between two consecutive teeth 4. Advantageously, the separation distance between the first pin 6 and the second pin 7 is at least twice smaller than the repeating pitch P of the teeth 4, preferably at least three or at least four times smaller than the repeating pitch P of the teeth 4. The closing device 5 is preferably equidistantly located between the two closest teeth 4. Advantageously, the closing device 5 replaces the teeth 4. Preferably, the equidistant point of the two closest teeth 4 is located in the space included between the first pin 6 and the second pin 7 in the ZZ direction.

[0098] The first pin 6 and / or the second pin 7 can continuously extend over the entire length of the through-hole in the YY direction. Advantageously, the first pin 6 and / or the second pin 7 is flush with each of the side walls of the conveyor belt. Preferably, the first pin 6 and / or the second pin 7 slightly protrudes from the side wall in the YY direction.

[0099] In Figure 7 In the advantageous embodiment shown, the first pin 6 is formed in two parts with a first part 6a and a second part 6b. The first part 6a has a travel end stop pressing on the first side of the conveyor belt 1, and the second part 6b has a travel end stop pressing on the second side of the conveyor belt 1. The first side and the second side are located on one side and the other side of the conveyor belt 1 in the transverse direction YY (i.e., along the lateral dimension). Using the first pin 6 in two parts makes the installation of the first pin 6 easier to perform. The travel end stops determine the maximum amount of press-fitting of each of the first part 6a and the second part 6b in the first through-hole. Preferably, each travel end stop 6c forms a button that defines a continuous annular contact area with the side of one of the first clip 1c and the second clip 1d around both ends of the first through-hole. Advantageously, the thickness of the travel end stop 6c is at least 10% larger than the first diameter.

[0100] In a specific manner, the end of the first part 6a presses on the end of the second part 6b. Advantageously, the end of the first part 6a and the end of the second part 6b engage within the same first clip 1c. In Figure 7 In the advantageous embodiment shown, the end of the first part and the end of the second part terminate within a single clip that defines an empty space. These embodiments are advantageous because this makes it possible to completely seal all the through-holes and provide good mechanical strength.

[0101] Advantageously, the same applies to the second pin 7.

[0102] Preferably, when the first pin 6 and / or the second pin 7 are formed in two parts having a first part 6a, 7a and a second part 6b, 7b, the first parts 6a, 7a have a travel end stop 6c, 7c pressing against the first lateral side of the conveyor belt 1, the second parts 6b, 7b have a travel end stop 6c, 7c pressing against the second lateral side of the conveyor belt 1, the first part 6a terminates in one of the first clamping pieces 1c, and the second part 6b terminates in said one of the first clamping pieces 1c.

[0103] The adjustment of the press-in depth of the first pin 6 within the first series of holes 5a can be formed by Figure 20 the travel end stop 6c shown together with a closing device having a single pin. The travel end stop 6c has a width that prevents the travel end stop 6c from entering the first series of holes 5a. Advantageously, the travel end stop 6c presses continuously against the side in an annular manner. This stop construction reduces or even prevents food from entering the outlet of the first series of holes 5a that are open in the side wall of the conveyor belt 1.

[0104] When the first pin 6 consists of two parts 6a and 6b, both of which terminate in a travel end stop 6c and both of which terminate in one of the clamping pieces, the first pin 6 makes it more difficult for food to get stuck along the first series of holes 5a. The same is advantageous for the second pin 7 provided with a stop.

[0105] It is particularly advantageous to use a first pin 6 and a second pin 7 both consisting of two parts. It is also advantageous that the first clamping piece 1c receiving the first part 6a and the second part 6b of the first pin 6 is located in the first half of the conveyor belt, and the first clamping piece 1c or the second clamping piece 1d receiving the first part 7a and the second part 7b of the second pin 7 is located in the second half of the conveyor belt 1. The first half and the second half are separated by an intermediate longitudinal plane perpendicular to the transverse direction YY.

[0106] In Figure 2 、 Figure 4 、 Figure 7 、 Figure 8 、 Figures 11 to 17In the advantageous embodiment shown, the first pin 6 is fixed to the second pin 7 by the reinforcement 10. The reinforcement 10 connects the first pin 6 to the second pin 7. The assembly formed by the first pin 6, the second pin 7 and the reinforcement 10 preferably defines a single-piece part, i.e. a non-detachable part. The thickness of the reinforcement 10 is greater than the average diameter of the first pin 6 and the second pin 7. It is advantageous that the width of the reinforcement 10 is less than or equal to the thickness of the first clamping piece 1c and the second clamping piece 1d. The thickness of the reinforcement 10 is measured in the ZZ direction passing through the outer surface B and the inner surface A. In an even more advantageous manner, the thickness of the reinforcement 10 is less than or equal to the thickness of the conveyor belt over the entire facing distance between the reinforcement 10 and the conveyor belt in the YY direction. The reinforcement 10 does not extend beyond the plane formed by the outer surface B of the closing device or beyond the inner surface A.

[0107] Preferably, the reinforcement 10 is made of the same material as the first pin 6 and the second pin 7, made of metal or of any material having a Young's modulus higher than or equal to the Young's modulus of the material forming the closing device and preferably forming the clamping pieces.

[0108] The distance between the first pin 6 and the second pin 7 is less than the repeat pitch of the teeth 4. In a preferred manner, the first pin 6 and the second pin 7 are arranged in the space between two consecutive teeth 4. This configuration is more advantageous than a configuration in which the first pin 6 and the second pin 7 are separated by the teeth 4. Advantageously, the repeat pitch P of the teeth 4 is greater than or equal to three times the distance D between the central axes of the first pin 6 and the second pin 7, preferably greater than or equal to five times the distance D between the central axes of the first pin 6 and the second pin 7, and even more preferably greater than or equal to ten times the distance D between the central axes of the first pin 6 and the second pin 7.

[0109] In an even more preferred manner, the minimum distance between the teeth 4 and the pins 6 / 7 is greater than or equal to three times the distance D between the central axes of the first pin 6 and the second pin 7. Advantageously, the assembly formed by the first pin 6 and the second pin 7 is located at an equal distance from two teeth 4 in the XX direction. Preferably, the tooth 4 closest to the first clamping piece 1c is separated from the first clamping piece 1c by a distance greater than three times the average distance between the diameters of the first pin 6 and the second pin 7. This makes it easier to obtain the behavior of the closing device closer to the rest of the conveyor belt.

[0110] In a preferred manner, the average thickness of the first clamping piece 1c is equal to the thickness of the second clamping piece 1d. More preferably, once the first end 1 has been fixed to the second end 2, the fixed area presents a flat outer surface. Advantageously, the thicknesses of the first clamping piece 1c and the second clamping piece 1d decrease at least in the longitudinal direction from one end of the first hole to the opposite end of the second hole, which longitudinal direction starts from the central part of the conveyor belt 1 and towards the ends of the first clamping piece 1c and the second clamping piece 1d. This thickness is equal to twice the average thickness of the conveyor belt outside the first and second clamping pieces.

[0111] In an advantageous embodiment, the first pin 6 has a stop 9 which is an elastically deformable region. The stop 9 is arranged to protrude so as to increase the friction between the first pin 6 and at least one of the first clip 1c or the second clip 1d. Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Figure 11 , Figure 14 and Figure 15 Shown are a first pin 6 and a second pin 7 each provided with a protrusion. The protrusion forms a stop 9 which locally increases the cross-section of the pin, making it more difficult to press the pin in and especially to remove it. Preferably, the stop 9 is formed close to the end-of-travel stop so as to facilitate the insertion of the pin over the entire length of the pin. Preferably, when installing the pin, the stop 9 wedges into the clip closest to the end-of-travel stop or into the entire clip closest to the end-of-travel stop.

[0112] Particularly advantageous is a conveyor belt 1 forming a closing device 5 according to any of the above configurations. It is also advantageous to form a conveyor using the conveyor belt 1 which includes a closing device 5 according to any of the above configurations.

[0113] In addition to the problems associated with the mechanical management of the closing device 5 for fixing the first end 1 and the second end 2, it is desirable that the closing device 5 does not cause bacterial growth. Commonly, substances remain stuck in the gaps of the closing device 5, particularly in the pins 6 / 7 which fix the first end 1 to the second end 2. This problem is more difficult to manage because the length of the pins 6 / 7 must be adjusted to fit the width of the closing device 5. When the pins 6 / 7 are too short, through-holes form cavities whose bottom is formed by the pins 6 / 7 and which are prone to holding substances. Such inaccessible substances will cause the proliferation of bacteria. When the pins 6 / 7 are too long, this makes it more difficult to drive the conveyor belt 1 because the pins 6 / 7 may get stuck in the equipment located near the conveyor belt 1. Therefore, there is a requirement to improve the cleaning management of the closing device 5.

[0114] To achieve this result, it is particularly advantageous to provide a pin 6 / 7 having a terminal formed by a region of larger cross-section which forms a continuous annular contact surface around a first or second hole designed to receive the pin 6 / 7. Making the cross-section of the pin 6 / 7 exactly the same as the cross-section of the through-hole is complex. The installation of the pin 6 / 7 is more difficult because the available space is small. Then, the separation distance allows substances to enter between the pin 6 / 7 and the edge of the through-hole. Therefore, it is particularly advantageous to have a pin end which forms a plug that makes continuous contact with the side wall of the conveyor belt 1. The plug prevents entry into the through-hole.

[0115] In one embodiment, the hole present in the first end 1a of the closing device 5 is not a through-hole. It is advantageous to have a plug forming a travel end stop 6c such that the first pin 6 stops in the last clip adjacent to the bottom of the hole.

[0116] In another embodiment, at least one hole of the closing device 5 is a through-hole, and then it is advantageous that the first pin 6 is formed in two parts 6a and 6b, and the two parts 6a and 6b are provided with plugs in continuous annular contact with the side walls of the conveyor belt 1. Then there are plugs at each end of the first pin 6 to prevent substances from entering between the first pin 6 and the side wall of the hole.

[0117] It is advantageous that the thickness of the plug is less than or equal to the thickness of the clip. The thickness is measured in the ZZ direction cutting the outer surface B and the inner surface A of the conveyor belt 1. This avoids the formation of a preferential capture area protruding from the conveyor belt 1, such as a scraper 8.

[0118] According to an embodiment, the closing device 5 can have only the first pin 6 or multiple pins, preferably the first pin 6 and the second pin 7. When the closing device 5 has multiple pins, it is advantageous that each of the pins 6 / 7 has at least one travel end stop in the form of an annular plug continuously extending around a first through-hole in the side wall of the closing device 5. Figure 20 、 21 Figures 22 and 23 show an embodiment with a single pin. This embodiment is less efficient compared to the previously proposed embodiments for forming a closing device with mechanical properties closer to those of the rest of the conveyor belt 1. However, such an implementation does obtain better resistance to bacterial proliferation.

[0119] The annular plug 6c defines continuous annular contact with the side wall of one of the clips (here the first clip 1c) in order to prevent impurities from entering and remaining in the through-hole or the joint between the pin and the through-hole. The cross-section of the pin should be as complementary as possible to the cross-section of the hole formed in the clip. However, due to manufacturing uncertainties and wear, small gaps may be formed. It is known that this gap is an area favorable for bacterial development because it is difficult to clean.

[0120] Therefore, it is advantageous to form an annular plug that contacts the side wall and restricts or even prevents access to the end of the through-hole.

[0121] To limit bacterial proliferation, it is advantageous to use a pin formed in two parts, each part being terminated by an annular plug. In this way, the two ends of the through-hole are sealed by the two plugs on the clip. As previously mentioned, preferably, the two ends of the two parts of the pin engage in the same clip. All through-holes are sealed by one or the other of the two parts of the pin, thereby restricting or even preventing impurities from entering the through-holes of the clip. As shown in the figure, the shapes of the clip and the groove are as complementary as possible to prevent substances from entering between the clips. By using simple shapes and one or more removable pins, it becomes easy to open the conveyor belt and clean the conveyor belt.

[0122] When the closing device 5 has a first pin 6 and a second pin 7, it is advantageous that the plugs of two adjacent pins belong to the same integral part, which preferably forms a reinforcement 10, as Figure 15 , Figure 21 and Figure 22 shown. Each of the two plugs forms an annular contact surface with the side wall of the first or last clip to prevent access to the through-hole.

[0123] When the two inner ends of the first pin 6 are located in the same clip, it is difficult for substances to enter between the two parts of the pin. To facilitate the installation of the components of the pin, it is advantageous to form a free space in the through-hole of the clip, which is less than 50% of the size of the clip in the YY direction, preferably less than 25%. Advantageously, each part of the first pin 6 extends within the clip for a distance that is at least equal to 10% of the width of the clip, preferably at least equal to 20%, more preferably at least equal to 30%. The greater the pressing distance of each part of the first pin, the lower the risk of detachment. Thus, it is possible to avoid forming a flexible point or a flexible area.

[0124] Preferably, when the closing device has only the first pin 6, the clip receiving the ends of the first component and the second component is located in the central third in the transverse direction YY.

[0125] In a particular embodiment, both the first pin 6 and the second pin 7 are formed in two parts. Particularly advantageously, the clip receiving the ends of the first part and the second part of the first pin 6 is different from the clip receiving the ends of the first part and the second part of the second pin 7. Distinguishing the clips enables better stress diffusion. Preferably, the two clips receiving the ends of the first pin 6 and the second pin 7 are separated by at least 5%, preferably at least 10%, of the width of the closing device in the YY direction. In a particular embodiment, the clip receiving the ends of the first part and the second part of the first pin 6 is located in the first third in the transverse direction YY, and the clip receiving the ends of the first part and the second part of the second pin 7 is located in the third third in the transverse direction YY.

[0126] The plug is preferably installed so as not to be removable from the rest of the pin.

[0127] In another embodiment, each part of the pin or the pin is provided with a stop 9, which is configured to block the position of the pin in the transverse direction YY when the pin is subjected to a stress below a threshold value in the transverse direction YY. When the pin is inserted into the hole, the force applied when inserting the pin is greater than the threshold value. When the conveyor belt 1 moves, the pin is subjected to stress, and a part of the stress is manifested as a force in the transverse direction YY. The use of the stop 9 enables the pin to remain in place when the conveyor belt 1 rotates.

[0128] In a particular embodiment, the closing device defines notches in each of its side walls in the YY direction. The notches correspond to the narrowing of the width of the terminal clip such that the plug is not mounted protruding in the YY direction relative to the rest of the conveyor belt.

Claims

1. An openable conveyor belt (1) for food, comprising: - a first end (1a) and a second end (1b) of the conveyor belt (1), the first end (1a) and the second end (1b) respectively defining a first clip (1c) and a second clip (1d) arranged alternately in the closed position of the conveyor belt (1), the first clip (1c) and the second clip (1d) each defining a first series of holes (5a) and a second series of holes (5b), wherein, in the closed position of the conveyor belt (1), the first series of holes (5a) are aligned to form a first through hole extending across the entire width of the conveyor belt (1), and the second series of holes (5b) are aligned to form a second through hole extending across the entire width of the conveyor belt (1); - a first pin (6) passing through the first series of holes (5a) to fix the first end (1c) and the second end (1d), the first pin (6) having a first diameter and being removable relative to the first end (1a) and the second end (1b); - a second pin (7) passing through the second series of holes (5b) to fix the first end (1c) and the second end (1d), the second pin (7) having a second diameter and being removable relative to the first end (1a) and the second end (1b), the second pin (7) and the first pin (6) being offset in the longitudinal direction (XX) of the conveyor belt (1), the first clip (1c), the second clip (1d), the first pin (6) and the second pin (7) forming a closing device configured to close the conveyor belt (1); - a possible series of teeth (4) protruding from the inner surface (A) for driving the conveyor belt (1), the teeth (4) being spaced apart at a repeating pitch (P); characterized in that the average thickness of the first clip (1c) and the second clip (1d) is at least 10% greater and less than twice the average thickness of the conveyor belt outside the closing device, the average thickness being calculated without considering any possible teeth (4) for driving the conveyor belt (1); wherein the separation distance (D) between the central axes of the first pin (6) and the second pin (7) is less than three times the average diameter of the first pin (6) and the second pin (7) to locally reinforce the area located between the first pin (6) and the second pin (7), and the spacing between the first pin (6) and the second pin (7) is less than twice the average diameter of the first pin (6) and the second pin (7); wherein both the first pin (6) and the second pin (7) are composed of a first part (6a) and a second part (6b), each part including a travel end stop (7c) that defines the maximum press-in amount of the first part (6a, 7a) and the second part (6b, 7b) in the first through hole and the second through hole; wherein each travel end stop (6c, 7c) forms a button protruding from the side wall of the conveyor belt (1); wherein each button defines a continuous annular contact area around the two ends of the first through hole and the second through hole with the side surface of one of the first clip (1c) and the second clip (1d); Among them, the stroke end stop (6c) of the first part (6a) of the first pin (6) and the stroke end stop (7c) of the first part (7a) of the second pin (7) are of an integral structure to form a reinforcing member (10). The thickness of the reinforcing member is greater than or equal to the average diameter of the first pin (6) and the second pin (7), and is less than the thickness of the first clip (1c) and the second clip (1d) between at least the first pin (6) and the second pin (7); Moreover, when the conveyor belt (1) has teeth (4), the first pin (6) and the second pin (7) are arranged between two consecutive teeth (4), and the separation distance between the first pin (6) and the second pin (7) is at least two times smaller than the repeat pitch (P).

2. The conveyor belt according to claim 1, wherein The ends of the first clip (1c) and the second clip (1d) are arc-shaped portions. Among them, the first end (1a) and the second end (1b) define complementary shapes, and the complementary shapes are designed to receive the arc-shaped portions between the first clips (1c) and between the second clips (1d). This arc shape is observed in the downward pressing direction of the first pin (6) and the second pin (7).

3. The conveyor belt according to claim 2, wherein, The first clip (1c) and the second clip (1d) extend in the longitudinal direction (XX) of the conveyor belt (1) for a distance less than or equal to four times the separation distance (D).

4. The conveyor belt according to claim 3, wherein, The width of the first clip (1c) is greater than 2.5 times the average diameter of the first pin (6) and the second pin (7).

5. The conveyor belt according to one of claims 3 and 4, wherein, The thickness of the first clip (1c) and the thickness of the second clip (1d) respectively start from the central part of the conveyor belt (1) and gradually decrease in the longitudinal direction towards the ends of the first clip (1c) and the second clip (1d), at least from one end of the first hole to the opposite end of the second hole. And among them, the thickness is equal to twice the average thickness of the conveyor belt outside the first clip and the second clip.

6. The openable conveyor belt according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The inner surface (A) of the conveyor belt (1) is provided with teeth (4). The distance between the tooth (4) closest to the first clip (1c) and the first clip (1c) is greater than three times the average distance of the diameters of the first pin (6) and the second pin (7). The teeth (4) are designed to mesh with the gear (3) to drive the conveyor belt to rotate.

7. The closing device of the openable conveyor belt according to one of claims 1 and 2, wherein, The first part (6a) of the first pin (6) and the second part (6b) of the first pin (6) define an empty area within the clip.

8. The conveyor belt according to claim 1.

9. The conveyor belt according to claim 2, wherein, The first part (6a) and the second part (6b) define an empty area within the clip.

10. The conveyor belt according to one of claims 1 and 2, wherein, The thickness of the stroke end stop (6c) is at least 10% greater than the first diameter and less than the average thickness of the first clip (1c) and the second clip (1d).

11. The conveyor belt according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein, The clip receiving the ends of the first part (6a) and the second part (6b) of the first pin (6) is located at the first third in the transverse direction (YY) and is different from the clip receiving the ends of the first part (7a) and the second part (7b) of the second pin (7).

12. An openable conveyor belt, which includes the closing device according to any one of the foregoing claims.

13. A method for closing an openable conveyor belt, including: - Provide a conveyor belt (1) having a first end (1a) and a second end (1b), the first end (1a) defining a first clip (1c), the first clip (1c) being provided with at least a first series of holes (5a) having a first diameter; the second end (1b) defining a second clip (1d), the second clip (1d) being provided with at least a first series of holes (5a) having a first diameter; - Close the conveyor belt (1) with the first clip (1c) and the second clip (1d) arranged alternately, wherein the first series of holes (5a) are aligned to form a first through hole extending across the entire width of the conveyor belt (1); - Insert a first part (6a) of a first pin (6) through the first series of holes (5a), the first part (6a) of the first pin (6) being removable relative to the first end (1a) and the second end (1b), the first part (6a) of the first pin (6) terminating in one of the first clip (1c) and the second clip (1d); - Insert a second part (6b) of the first pin (6) through the first series of holes (5a) to fix the first end (1a) and the second end (1b), the second part (6b) of the first pin (6) being removable relative to the first end (1a) and the second end (1b), the second part (6b) of the first pin (6) terminating in the clip of the first clip (1c) and the second clip (1d).

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