Connecting assembly

Abstract

A connection assembly for electrically connecting a plurality of conveyor modules to form a conveyor system, each conveyor module having a control mechanism, the connection assembly comprising: a housing having a plurality of spaced-apart apertures; and a printed circuit board (PCB) encapsulated within the housing, the PCB including a plurality of electrical connection points, each electrical connection point aligned with one of the plurality of apertures in the housing; wherein each aperture is configured to receive a portion of the control mechanism of the conveyor module such that the aperture establishes an electrical connection with the encapsulated PCB within the housing by means of a direct physical connection between the control mechanism of the conveyor module and a corresponding electrical connection point on the encapsulated PCB.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a conveyor system for conveying objects along a conveying surface formed by a plurality of conveyor modules. More particularly, the present invention relates to a connection assembly that facilitates electrical connection between the plurality of conveyor modules and a control system of the conveyor system. Background Art

[0002] The conveyor system includes a plurality of conveyor modules, each conveyor module having at least one rotatable element including an engagement surface for receiving an object to be conveyed, whereby rotation of the rotatable element is used to convey the received object in a rotational direction. The conveyor system also includes a conveyor frame having a plurality of openings, each opening receiving a conveyor module to form an array of conveyor modules, the conveyor modules together providing a conveying surface for conveying the object. The conveyor frame includes a control system configured to communicate with a control mechanism of the conveyor module to control the rotatable element.

[0003] The control system can be electrically connected to the control mechanism in a variety of different ways.

[0004] Preferably, the control system is electrically connected to the control mechanism in a simple and inexpensive manner. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to a first aspect, a connection assembly for electrically connecting a plurality of conveyor modules to form a conveyor system is provided, wherein each conveyor module includes a control mechanism. The connection assembly includes a housing having a plurality of spaced-apart openings. The connection assembly also includes a printed circuit board (PCB) encapsulated within the housing. The PCB includes a plurality of electrical connection points, each of which is aligned with one of the plurality of openings in the housing. Each opening is configured to receive a portion of the control mechanism of the conveyor module, such that the opening establishes an electrical connection with the encapsulated PCB by means of a direct physical connection between the control mechanism of the conveyor module and a corresponding electrical connection point on the encapsulated PCB.

[0006] Thus, one such connection assembly can provide electrical connections to multiple conveyor modules in a conveyor system. The connection assembly houses a PCB that includes multiple electrical connection points (which may include one or more electrical connectors), each electrical connection point being located below a corresponding opening provided in a housing that encloses the PCB. The connection assembly can form a track to which multiple conveyor modules can be attached so as to establish electrical connections between the conveyor modules and the electrical connection points on the PCB. The PCB can form part of a control system for the conveyor modules, which control system can include the PCB in multiple such connection assemblies connected to a number of such conveyor modules, which together can form the conveying surface of the conveyor system.

[0007] The connection assembly advantageously protects the PCB from the external environment and contaminants such as dust and water, while facilitating electrical connections between the control mechanism and the PCB. In this way, the risk of electrical failure caused by fluids and other contaminants is greatly reduced.

[0008] The PCB may form part of the control mechanism of each conveyor module, and the electrical connection points may be configured to establish a direct physical connection with the PCB. Each electrical connection point may be configured to receive at least a portion of a PCB that forms part of the control mechanism of the conveyor module. This may facilitate providing a direct physical connection between the control mechanism of the conveyor module and a corresponding electrical connection point on the encapsulated PCB.

[0009] The term "direct physical connection" preferably means that the connection assembly is configured for a "plug and play" connection with the conveyor module. Thus, the conveyor module can be simply plugged into the connection assembly, thereby establishing an electrical connection. In this way, an electrical connection can be established between the conveyor module and the connection assembly without requiring a wired coupling between them. This arrangement makes it easier and faster to insert and remove the conveyor module from the conveyor system, whereas the ease of access to the conveyor module and the connection assembly during use can be limited.

[0010] Each electrical connection point can be located within an opening of an aperture in the first housing portion, for example, such that it provides a receptacle on the upper surface of the first housing portion. Alternatively, each electrical connection point can be located substantially below an aperture in the first housing portion, for example, such that an electrical connection is established within an encapsulated PCB within the housing. Preferably, the number of electrical connection points is the same as the number of apertures. Each electrical connection point can extend away from the PCB and at least partially into the aperture.

[0011] The electrical connection points may include PCI connectors (e.g., in the form of PCI sockets) and / or JST connectors. The electrical connection points may be arranged in an elongated configuration. In some examples, the elongated configuration of the electrical connection points may correspond at least partially to the elongated configuration of the first housing portion and the second housing portion. In this way, the electrical components are arranged in a substantially linear manner rather than in a grid-like manner. A linear arrangement may be more space-efficient than a grid-like arrangement and therefore reduce the overall cost of manufacturing the electrical components and the electrical connection points. For example, the elongated arrangement of the electrical connection points may produce an elongated PCB that may be smaller than a square PCB, which means that less space is wasted, thereby reducing the cost of manufacturing the linear PCB. In some cases, the overall size of the electrical connection points and / or the PCB may be reduced by up to 50%, more preferably up to 80%, and more preferably up to 90%.

[0012] Each aperture may form part of a socket configured to establish an electrical connection with an electrical connector of a conveyor module.The socket may be used to establish an electrical connection between the conveyor module and at least one of the electrical connection points.

[0013] The housing may include a first housing portion and a second housing portion, wherein the first housing portion and the second housing portion are arranged to enclose the PCB between the first housing portion and the second housing portion. This can provide a simple housing structure that can effectively accommodate the PCB and protect the PCB from damage by external factors.

[0014] In some examples, each opening can be centrally located relative to the width of the first housing portion. This can ensure that the conveyor module is received in a substantially centered position relative to the connection assembly. This allows for electrically connecting a substantially straight connection assembly to a plurality of conveyor modules in a row.

[0015] The first housing portion and the second housing portion can each have an elongated configuration. In this way, the housing can have an elongated configuration. For example, a plurality of openings can be spaced apart in rows so that the received conveyor modules are arranged in a row, preferably extending along the length of the elongated housing. The rows of openings are preferably spaced apart along the outer surface of the housing (e.g., the common surface of the housing). The openings are preferably provided on the first housing portion. Each of these preferred arrangements can provide a space-saving way to arrange the attached conveyor modules.

[0016] The first housing portion may be formed from a polymer. The first housing portion may be formed using injection molding. The second housing portion may be formed from a polymer. The second housing portion may be formed using extrusion. The first and second housing portions may be formed from plastic. These materials are inexpensive and effective for manufacturing components. However, any suitable manufacturing process may be used to form the first and second housing portions. The first and second housing portions may be formed using the same or different manufacturing processes.

[0017] Preferably, the elongated configuration has a substantially straight (or linear) configuration. The elongated configuration may be a substantially rectangular configuration. This configuration provides a simple and efficient structure on which the conveyor modules may be mounted such that the mounted conveyor modules are arranged in a row. The straight configuration also facilitates manufacturing, reducing overall costs.

[0018] In some examples, the plurality of apertures may be spaced apart in a linear configuration, eg, the apertures may be arranged in a row along the first housing portion.

[0019] In some examples, the openings can be arranged in an alternating, offset pattern along the first housing portion. In some examples, the electrical connection points can be arranged in an alternating, offset pattern (substantially corresponding to the pattern of openings). In the present disclosure, a linear arrangement of openings can include openings arranged in a straight line and openings arranged in an offset pattern along a straight line. The same applies to the electrical connection points and / or receptacles of the connector assembly.

[0020] The opening can be configured (e.g., sized and shaped) to receive the portion of the control mechanism such that the control mechanism substantially encloses and preferably seals the opening to the external environment. For example, the opening and the control mechanism can have a substantially rectangular configuration. By enclosing the PCB within the housing and accessing the PCB from the outside only via the opening configured to receive the control mechanism of the conveyor module, the control mechanism preferably fills the opening and thereby effectively encloses / seals the opening. Alternatively, the electrical connector itself can be configured to fit within the opening such that the opening is substantially sealed relative to the external environment, for example wherein the electrical connector is further configured to provide a socket (e.g., a PCI connector) to receive a portion of the control mechanism of the conveyor module and thereby establish a direct physical electrical connection.

[0021] In some arrangements, each opening may include a raised perimeter. The perimeter may extend substantially around the entire perimeter of the opening. The raised perimeter may be used to at least partially shield or protect the opening from debris and fluid ingress, which may help protect electrical components within the connection assembly.

[0022] The raised perimeter may include an inclined portion. The inclined portion may help ensure that fluid or debris in contact with the raised perimeter flows along the inclined side away from the hole. This may help avoid accumulation of fluid or debris around the base of the perimeter.

[0023] The raised perimeter may be integrally formed with the first housing portion. This reduces the total number of separate components and helps provide a stronger attachment point between the perimeter and the first housing portion.

[0024] The first and second housing portions can be arranged to attach together. The first and second housing portions can form a housing. The first and second housing portions can be attached together using an interlocking hook arrangement. Any other suitable arrangement can be used to attach the first and second portions together. In this manner, the first and second housing portions can at least partially enclose the electrical components within the space formed by the attached first and second housing portions, thereby providing a safe environment for positioning the electrical components. This also helps protect the electrical components from external factors such as water or dust that could damage the electrical components.

[0025] The interlocking hook arrangement may extend along at least a portion of the length of both the first housing portion and the second housing portion. Preferably, the interlocking hook arrangement extends along substantially the entire length of both the first housing portion and the second housing portion. This provides a secure attachment mechanism that helps ensure that the first housing portion and the second housing portion remain attached together.

[0026] Preferably, the plurality of electrical connection points are arranged alternately such that adjacent electrical connection points have different orientations.

[0027] In some examples, the orientations of adjacent electrical connection points may differ by 90 degrees or 180 degrees from one another. This may facilitate achieving electrical connections between the conveyor module and the PCB. The plurality of electrical connection points may be alternately arranged on either side of the longitudinal centerline of the first housing portion.

[0028] The connection assembly can include a plurality of connectors configured to attach the connection assembly to a conveyor frame of the conveyor system. The connectors can help ensure that the connection assembly remains in place relative to the conveyor frame, which can help maintain an electrical connection between the conveyor module and the connection assembly when the conveyor module is installed in the conveyor frame.

[0029] In some examples, multiple connectors may include snap-on hooks. Any suitable mechanism for connecting the connection assembly to the conveyor frame may be used, such as interlocking hooks or interlocking flanges. These provide a simple and effective means of connecting the assembly to the conveyor frame. The snap-on hooks also allow the connection assembly to be attached to the conveyor frame without the use of additional components (e.g., screws) or additional tools.

[0030] The plurality of connectors may be configured to engage with one or more slots on the conveyor frame. This provides a simple and effective means of connecting the connection assembly to the conveyor frame.

[0031] Preferably, a plurality of connectors may be located on the first housing portion. In some examples, the plurality of connectors may be arranged in pairs along at least a portion of the length of the first housing portion. Arranging the connectors in pairs may provide a more secure means of attaching the connection assembly to the conveying frame.

[0032] The connectors and openings can be arranged alternately along at least a portion of the length of the first housing portion. For example, each connector can have an opening on either side of the connector, and / or vice versa. This can ensure that there are sufficient connectors along the length of the first housing portion so that the first housing portion is securely attached to the conveyor frame.

[0033] A connection assembly for providing electrical connections to a plurality of conveyor modules in a conveyor system may be provided. The connection assembly includes a first housing portion and a second housing portion arranged to at least partially enclose a plurality of electrical components. The connection assembly also includes a plurality of openings disposed in the first housing portion, wherein each opening is associated with at least one of the plurality of electrical components. The first housing portion and the second housing portion each have an elongated configuration. Each opening is configured to receive a portion of a conveyor module so that each of the plurality of conveyor modules is electrically connected to at least one of the plurality of electrical components. The plurality of openings are spaced apart such that each of the received conveyor modules is arranged in a row.

[0034] Each electrical connection point can extend away from the PCB (located within the housing) and at least partially into the opening. Each opening can form a portion of an electrical receptacle configured to establish an electrical connection with an electrical connector of the conveyor module. The receptacle can be used to establish an electrical connection between the conveyor module and at least one electrical component. The plurality of electrical components are arranged alternately such that adjacent electrical components have different orientations. The electrical components can be electrical connection points (e.g., electrical contacts and / or electrical receptacles).

[0035] A conveyor module may be provided that is arranged to establish a direct physical electrical connection with the connection assembly as described above. The conveyor module may include: at least one rotatable element comprising an engagement surface configured to engage with a surface of an object to be conveyed; a drive mechanism configured to rotate the at least one rotatable element such that rotation of the at least one rotatable element causes rotation of the engagement surface and thereby movement of the object; and a control mechanism configured to control the rotation of the rotatable element; wherein the drive mechanism and the control mechanism are arranged in vertical alignment. The drive mechanism is preferably an electric motor.

[0036] The control mechanism may extend away from the conveyor module and may be arranged to establish an electrical connection with at least one of the plurality of electrical connection points of the connection assembly.

[0037] In use, the control mechanism may be located below the drive mechanism.Preferably, at least a portion of the control mechanism may be arranged to be received by an aperture in the connection assembly.

[0038] The conveyor module may further comprise a housing, wherein the housing may be configured to at least partially house the control mechanism and at least partially house the drive mechanism.The housing may protect the drive mechanism and the control mechanism from damage, for example, caused by fluids or dust.

[0039] The control mechanism may extend at least partially through the housing.The control mechanism may comprise a PCB.

[0040] The conveyor module may include a through-passageway extending between a first opening in a top portion of the conveyor module and a second opening in the chute. The chute is preferably configured to extend away from the conveyor module. This ensures that debris collected within the through-passageway can pass through the conveyor module and out of the chute without becoming lodged or interfering with the connecting components.

[0041] In some examples, the chute may extend less than half the length of one side of the conveyor module. This ensures that the chute does not interfere with the connection assembly when the conveyor module is electrically connected to the connection assembly.

[0042] A connecting track for a conveyor system may be provided, the connecting track comprising a plurality of electrical connection points arranged linearly along the connecting track, wherein each electrical connection point is arranged to receive (eg electrically connect to) a control mechanism of a conveyor module.

[0043] A conveying system for conveying objects can be provided, the conveying system comprising: a plurality of conveyor modules, each conveyor module comprising: at least one rotatable element comprising an engagement surface configured to engage with a surface of an object to be conveyed; a control mechanism configured to control the rotation of the rotatable element; and a conveying frame comprising: a plurality of openings, each opening configured to receive a conveyor module so as to form an array of conveyor modules, which together provide a substantially flat surface for conveying objects; and a control system configured to communicate with the control mechanism of the conveyor module; wherein the control system comprises: a connecting track having a plurality of electrical connection points arranged along the connecting track; and wherein each electrical connection point is arranged to receive (e.g., electrically connect to) the control mechanism of the conveyor module.

[0044] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that any device feature described herein may be provided as a method feature, and vice versa. It will also be understood that a specific combination of different features described and defined in any aspect or embodiment described herein may be independently implemented and / or provided and / or used. Furthermore, it should be understood that the various examples and embodiments described herein are exemplary embodiments, and within the scope of this disclosure, one or more features from one embodiment may be combined with one or more features from another embodiment. As used herein, any "device plus function" feature may be represented alternatively according to its corresponding structure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0045] One or more examples of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0046] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the conveyor module;

[0047] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a portion of a conveyor module;

[0048] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a conveyor module;

[0049] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the conveyor module;

[0050] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the conveyor frame;

[0051] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a conveyor module and a portion of a conveyor frame;

[0052] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a conveyor module and a portion of a conveyor frame;

[0053] Figure 8 is a perspective view of a portion of a connected component;

[0054] Figure 9 is an end view of a portion of a connected assembly;

[0055] Figure 10 is a side view of the connection assembly;

[0056] Figure 11 is a perspective view of two conveyor modules, a portion of the conveyor frame, and connecting components;

[0057] Figure 12 It is a bottom view of the two conveyor modules;

[0058] Figure 13 is a perspective view of a conveyor module and a portion of a connecting assembly;

[0059] Figure 14 is a perspective view of a portion of a connected component;

[0060] Figure 15 is an end view of a portion of a connected assembly;

[0061] Figure 16 is a side view of the connection assembly;

[0062] Figure 17 is a top view of the connected components; and

[0063] Figure 18 Side view of two conveyor modules, a portion of the conveyor frame, and connecting components. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0064] Conveyor systems are used to move objects around on the surface of the conveyor system. In the following description, packages will be used as examples of the types of objects that can be moved using conveyor systems.

[0065] Typically, a conveying system includes a plurality of conveyor modules and a conveying frame. Each conveyor module includes at least one rotatable element having an engagement surface configured to engage with the surface of a package. Each conveyor module also has a drive mechanism configured to rotate the at least one rotatable element. In this way, the rotation of the at least one rotatable element causes the engagement surface to rotate and thereby enables the package to move on the engagement surface. The control mechanism of the conveyor module is configured to control the rotation of the rotatable element via the drive mechanism and communicate with a control system that is generally external to the conveyor module.

[0066] Typically, the conveyor frame includes a plurality of openings. Each opening is configured to receive a conveyor module, thereby forming an array of conveyor modules. Together, the array of conveyor modules provides a substantially flat surface for conveying packages. Each conveyor module is configured to be releasably mounted within an opening of the conveyor frame. Mounting the conveyor module within the opening establishes an electrical connection between the conveyor module and the control system, thereby facilitating electrical communication between the control system and the installed conveyor module.

[0067] In use, a package resting on the engaging surfaces of the conveyor modules is moved across the substantially flat surface formed by rotation of the rotatable element, so that the package moves from the engaging surface of one conveyor module to the engaging surface of an adjacent conveyor module. This has the effect of moving the package across the substantially flat surface.

[0068] Figure 1 An exemplary conveyor module 2 is shown. The conveyor module 2 may be referred to as a motorized wheel system (MWS). Typically, the conveyor module 2 is a single unit comprising a rotatable element in the form of two actuated omnidirectional wheels 4. These wheels 4 allow force to be applied to the packages in one direction while also allowing the packages to passively roll on the omnidirectional wheels 4 in a vertical direction.

[0069] The conveyor module 2 comprises a control mechanism 28 in the form of a printed circuit board (PCB). The control mechanism 28 is connected to the motor 20 so that the control mechanism 28 can control the rotation of the omnidirectional wheel 4.

[0070] The control mechanism 28 is also arranged to communicate with a control system 60 external to the conveyor module 2 (typically part of the conveyor frame 40). In this way, the control mechanism 28 can receive commands from the control system 60 and control the motor 20 accordingly.

[0071] like Figure 4As shown, the housing 6 of the conveyor module 2 includes a chute 30 protruding from the bottom of the housing 6 away from the main body of the conveyor module 2. Here, the bottom of the housing 6 corresponds to a portion of the housing 6 opposite to the top cover 8.

[0072] The chute 30 includes a passageway 34 that extends into the body of the conveyor module 2 to a chamber 36 in which the omnidirectional wheels 4 are located, allowing them to rotate freely. The chamber 36 is fluidly connected to the openings 10 in the top cover 8 of the conveyor module 2. The chute 30 functions as a water and dust drainage system, allowing dust and water that enter the openings 10 to flow through the chamber 36 and passageway 34 and out of the chute 30 via the openings 32. In use, the passageway 34 of the conveyor module 2 will be substantially vertical. This has the advantage that any debris that collects in the chamber 36 can flow downward through the passageway 34 under the influence of gravity and out of the openings 32 in the chute 30. This prevents debris, particularly water and dust, from accumulating in the chamber 36 or space surrounding the omnidirectional wheels 4, which could affect the rotational movement of the wheels 4. Thus, the conveyor module 2 can be considered to include a through-passage extending between a first opening at the top of the conveyor module 2 (i.e., the opening 10 in the top cover 8) and a second opening at the base of the conveyor module (i.e., the opening 32 of the chute 30). The omnidirectional wheel 4 is at least partially located within this through-passage.

[0073] If at least Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the motor 20 and at least a portion of the control mechanism 28 are located within a housing 7 that is separate from the outer shell 6. In this way, the motor 20 and the control mechanism 28 are independent of the outer shell 6.

[0074] The housing 7 comprises a generally cylindrical body 9 for receiving the motor 20. Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the housing 7 also includes a passage 13 for receiving at least a portion of the control mechanism 28. Placing the motor 20 and a portion of the control mechanism 28 in the housing 7 separate from the outer shell 6 allows for easier access to both the motor 20 and the control mechanism 28, thereby allowing for quick replacement of these components. This advantage can be seen at least in Figure 2 It can be seen that Figure 2 Housing 7 is shown external to enclosure 106 and accessible independently of enclosure 6 .

[0075] The housing 7 can be secured to the outer shell 6 using an interlocking mechanism 15 comprising a first hook-shaped protrusion 15a on the housing 7 and a second hook-shaped protrusion 15b on the outer shell 6. The first hook-shaped protrusion 15a and the second hook-shaped protrusion 15b are arranged to releasably engage with each other to releasably secure the housing 7 to the outer shell 6. The use of a separate housing 7 and interlocking mechanism 15 reduces the overall complexity of the outer shell 6, which in turn reduces manufacturing and material costs. Furthermore, by placing the control mechanism 28 within the separate housing 7, the control mechanism 28 is isolated from the outer shell 6, allowing the housing 7 to be replaced if the control mechanism 28 fails, rather than replacing the entire outer shell 6. This increases the usable life of the conveyor module 2.

[0076] Now go to Figure 5 , an exemplary conveying frame 40 is shown in the form of a metal grid frame. The conveying frame 40 includes a plurality of openings 42 regularly arranged across the conveying frame 40 in a grid-like manner. The openings 42 of the conveying frame 40 are each for receiving a Figure 6 The conveyor modules 2 shown in FIG. 4 are arranged to form an array of conveyor modules 2 that together form a conveying surface for transporting packages received on the surface. Thus, the conveyor frame 40 serves as a support structure that holds a plurality of conveyor modules 2 together to form a transport surface on which packages can be transported.

[0077] The control system 60 is arranged to communicate with a main control system (not shown) and each conveyor module 2, for example to allow individual control of each conveyor module 2. The control system 60 is preferably attached to the conveyor frame 40, for example to the underside of the conveyor frame 40. The main control system may be separate from the conveyor frame 40 and the control system 60.

[0078] exist Figure 7 In the illustrated example, the control system 60 forms part of the conveyor frame 40 and is in the form of a PCB system comprising a plurality of PCBs 62 positioned beneath the conveyor frame 40. The PCBs 62, also known as Mod-PCBs, are typically square in shape and sized to cover a plurality of openings 42. For example, PCB 62a may be sized to cover a 4 x 4 opening 42 in the conveyor frame 40. Of course, any n x n arrangement may be used. This arrangement of PCBs 62 covers the entire area of ​​the conveyor frame 40. The plurality of PCBs 62 may be connected together using one or more wired connectors suitable for carrying electrical signals and / or power. The control system 60 is connected to a main control system and / or power supply, which are typically separate from the conveyor frame 40. For example, they may be located beneath the conveyor frame 40.

[0079] As mentioned before, Figure 6 As shown, each conveyor module 2 is designed to be inserted into an opening 42 in a conveyor frame 40 , preferably from above, in order to form a transport surface consisting of a plurality of conveyor modules 2 .

[0080] The conveyor module 2 is designed so that when the conveyor module 2 is inserted into the opening 42 of the conveyor frame 40, at least a part of the control mechanism 28 of the conveyor module 2 will automatically establish: an electrical connection with the control system 60 of the conveyor frame 40 (in particular the PCB 62), and therefore also an electrical connection with the main control system and / or power supply to which the control system 60 is electrically connected.

[0081] Advantageously, the electrical connection is established by a "direct physical" connection (e.g., engagement or contact) between the control mechanism 28 of the conveyor module 2 and the PCB 62 of the conveyor frame 40. For example, the control mechanism 28 of each conveyor module 2 (which takes the form of a PCB) can be directly engaged with a corresponding peripheral component interconnect (PCI) connector mounted on the PCB 62 of the conveyor frame 40 (e.g., a direct "plug and socket" physical connection). In this manner, the conveyor module 2 can be "releasably mounted" to the conveyor frame 40. This arrangement can also be referred to as a "plug and play" electrical connection.

[0082] This therefore has the effect that when the conveyor module 2 is inserted into the opening 42 of the conveyor frame 40 , the control mechanism 28 of the conveyor module 2 will automatically connect with a main control system (not shown) via an electrical connection to the control system 60 of the conveyor frame 40 .

[0083] Automatically establishing an electrical connection between the conveyor module 2 and the conveyor frame 40 when the conveyor module 2 is inserted into the conveyor frame 40 means automatically establishing an electrical connection between the conveyor module 2 and a main control system (not shown) when the conveyor module 2 is inserted into the conveyor frame 40 .

[0084] Thus, each PCB 62 in the control system 60 located on the underside of the conveyor frame 40 is electrically connected to the plurality of conveyor modules 2 above the PCB 62 and to a main power source (not shown) and / or a main control system (not shown) that is separate from the conveyor frame 40 (e.g., positioned below the PCB 62 of the conveyor frame 40). In this way, each conveyor module 2 is electrically connected to the main power source and / or control system via the PCB 62 of the conveyor frame 40.

[0085] As described above, when the conveyor module 2 is inserted into the opening 42 , a portion of the control mechanism 28 is arranged to establish a direct electrical connection with the PCB 62 , thereby electrically connecting the control mechanism 28 of the conveyor module 2 to the control system 60 of the conveyor frame 40 .

[0086] While the above arrangement facilitates an advantageous "plug and socket" electrical connection between the conveyor module 2 and the control system 60, the control system 60, including the PCB 62, is exposed to the external environment, which presents a risk of potential damage to the system due to contact with fluids and other contaminants, which could result in electrical failure.

[0087] Furthermore, a control system 60 having a large PCB 62 with openings covering an area of ​​n x n (where n is greater than 1) results in a relatively large PCB, which is expensive to manufacture.

[0088] refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9 , a connection assembly 100 will now be described that is configured to facilitate direct ("plug and socket") physical electrical connection of a plurality of conveyor modules 2 to the control system 60, e.g., to allow them to be individually controlled and / or powered as described above. With respect to the connection assembly 100, a PCB forming part of the control system 60 will hereinafter be referred to as PCB 110.

[0089] The connection assembly 100 is used to provide an electrical connection between the conveyor module 2 and the control system 60 of the conveyor frame 40, so that the control mechanism 28 of the conveyor module 2 (which controls the rotation of the rotatable element 4) can communicate with the control system 60, which is itself arranged to communicate electrically with a separate main control system and / or receive power from a power supply.

[0090] Advantageously, the connection assembly 100 facilitates the desired direct physical electrical connection between the plurality of conveyor modules 2 and the control system 60 while reducing the risk of potential damage to the control system 60 (and, therefore, the PCB 110) by limiting exposure of the PCB 110 (and, therefore, the control system 60) to the external environment.

[0091] Generally, the connection assembly 100 includes a housing 106 including a first housing portion 102 and a second housing portion 104 arranged to at least partially house a plurality of electrical components. Specifically, the first housing portion 102 and the second housing portion 104 are arranged to at least partially house a printed circuit board (PCB) 110 forming part of the control system 60.

[0092] In this way, PCB 110 can be considered to be at least partially enclosed by first housing portion 102 and second housing portion 104, and thus by housing 106. In use, first housing portion 102 is located above second housing portion 104, and thus first housing portion 102 may also be referred to as the "upper" housing portion, and second housing portion 104 may also be referred to as the "lower" housing portion.

[0093] like Figure 9As shown, the first housing portion 102 and the second housing portion 104 are arranged to be attached together to form a housing 106. Figure 9 In the illustrated example, the first and second housing portions 102, 104 are attached together using an interlocking hook arrangement, whereby the first and second housing portions 102, 104 can be slidably engaged to form the housing 106. In this case, the second housing portion 104 includes two hook portions 116a, 116b extending away from the main body of the second housing portion 104, extending upward when the connection assembly is in use. The hook portions 116a, 116b are located on either side of the second housing portion 104 and extend substantially along the entire length of the second housing portion 104. The first housing portion 102 also includes two hook portions 118a, 118b that extend downward when the connection assembly 100 is in use. Each hook portion 118a, 118b forms a corresponding groove 120a, 120b. The grooves 120a, 120b and the hook portions 118a, 118b are located on either side of the first housing portion 102 and extend substantially along the entire length of the second housing portion 102.

[0094] The hook portions 118a, 118b on the first housing portion 102 are sized and shaped to mate with the hook portions 116a, 116b on the second housing portion 104. Thus, when the first housing portion 102 and the second housing portion 104 are connected together, the hook portions 116a, 116b on the second housing portion 104 interlock with the hook portions 118a, 118b on the second housing portion 104, such that the hook portions 116a, 116b on the second housing portion 104 are retained in the grooves 120a, 120b, as shown. Figure 9 shown.

[0095] Although the hook portions 118a, 118b; 116a, 116b have been described as extending along substantially the entire length of the first housing portion 102 and the second housing portion 104, in some examples, the hook portions 118a, 118b; 116a, 116b may extend partially along the first housing portion 102 and the second housing portion 104, or there may be a series (i.e., a plurality) of spaced-apart hook portions 118a, 118b; 116a, 116b located on each of the first housing portion 102 and the second housing portion 104.

[0096] Any other suitable arrangement for attaching the first and second housing portions 102, 104 may be used, such as a snap-fit ​​arrangement.

[0097] The housing 106 (i.e., the first housing portion 102 and the second housing portion 104) is preferably formed from a polymer. The first housing portion 102 is preferably formed by injection molding, and the second housing portion 104 is preferably formed by extrusion. Of course, any other suitable process for manufacturing the first housing portion 102 and the second housing portion 104 may be used.

[0098] like Figure 8 As shown, the first housing portion 102 includes a plurality of openings 108. Each opening 108 is configured to receive a portion of the control mechanism 28 of the conveyor module 2 and facilitate electrical connection between the conveyor module 2 and the control system 60. Thus, the housing 106 has a plurality of spaced-apart openings 108 (i.e., a plurality of openings arranged in a spaced-apart configuration). The openings 108 can be further described as being spaced along a surface (or outer surface) of the housing 106, and more preferably, spaced along a surface of the first housing portion 102. The openings of the housing 106 are open upward to receive at least a portion of the control mechanism 28 therein.

[0099] The first housing portion 102 and the second housing portion 104 each have an elongated configuration. More particularly, the first housing portion 102 and the second housing portion 104 have a substantially straight rectangular form. Figure 10 As shown, the plurality of apertures 108 are spaced apart in a linear configuration such that when a conveyor module 2 is received in each aperture 108, the conveyor modules 2 are arranged in a row or line along the first housing portion 102. Figure 10 In the example shown, the openings 108 are equally spaced apart.

[0100] The PCB 110 housed within the housing 106 forms part of the control system 60 . Figure 9 The PCB 110 is shown positioned within the housing 106. In this example, the PCB 110 also has an elongated configuration that substantially corresponds to the elongated shape of the housing 106. The PCB 110 includes a plurality of electrical connection points 130 (which may also be referred to as electrical socket points) that are configured to receive and / or engage the PCB of the control mechanism 28 of the conveyor module 2.

[0101] Each opening 108 in the first housing portion 102 forms a portion of a socket 112 that is configured to allow a portion of the PCB of the control mechanism 28 of the conveyor module 2 to be received within the housing 106. The socket 112 facilitates electrical connection with an electrical connector of the conveyor module 2, such that electrical communication is established between the conveyor module 2 and the PCB 110.

[0102] Each aperture 108 is substantially surrounded by a raised perimeter that partially forms a receptacle 112, which may also be referred to as a "berm." The raised perimeter acts as a retaining ring that prevents debris and fluids from entering the housing 106 through the aperture 108 and contacting the PCB 110 and any other electrical components therein.

[0103] The aperture 108 can be configured (e.g., sized and shaped) to receive a portion of the control mechanism 28 such that, when received therein, the control mechanism substantially closes and preferably seals the aperture 108 from the external environment. In other words, the size and shape of the portion of the control mechanism 28 received in the aperture 108 can substantially correspond to the size and shape of the aperture, but the aperture 108 will, of course, be slightly larger to ensure a good fit. For example, the aperture 108 and the control mechanism 28 can have a substantially rectangular configuration.

[0104] As previously described, the PCB 110 is arranged to establish electrical connection with the control mechanism 28 of the conveyor module 2 inserted into the opening 42 of the conveyor frame 40. Therefore, the control mechanism 28 of the conveyor module 2 (ie in the form of a PCB) provides an electrical connector on the conveyor module 2.

[0105] To allow the control mechanism 28 of the conveyor module 2 to be electrically connected to the PCB 110 of the control system 60, each electrical connection point 130 on the PCB 110 that electrically connects to the control mechanism 28 is located substantially below the openings 108 of the first housing portion 102. In this manner, each opening 108 can be associated with (corresponds to) one of the electrical connection points 130. Thus, there are the same number of openings 108 as there are electrical connection points 130. The receptacle 112 can be formed by at least the combination of the openings 108 and the electrical connection points 130 associated therewith.

[0106] In a preferred embodiment of the connection assembly 100, the electrical connection points 130 on the PCB 110 of the connection assembly 100 include PCI connectors mounted on the PCB 110, the PCI connectors being arranged to receive at least a portion of a PCB forming part of the control mechanism 28 of the conveyor module 2, thereby forming a direct physical ("plug and play") electrical connection between the conveyor module 2 and the control system 60 of the conveyor frame 40. In other examples, the connection points on the PCB 110 of the connection assembly 100 include JST connectors being arranged to receive an appropriately corresponding portion of the control mechanism 28 of the conveyor module 2.

[0107] As previously described, each conveyor module 2 is configured to be releasably mounted within an aperture 42 of the conveyor frame 40, which establishes an electrical connection between the conveyor module 2 and the control system 60 of the conveyor frame 40. However, the PCB 110 in the connection assembly 100 is configured such that, instead of the PCB 62 being associated with nxn apertures 42 of the conveyor frame 40, the PCB 110 is associated with 1xn apertures 42 of the conveyor frame 40. Thus, the PCB 110 connects the multiple conveyor modules 2 in a row rather than in a grid.

[0108] like Figure 10 and Figure 13 , the connection assembly 100 includes a plurality of connectors 122 that allow the connection assembly 100 to be attached to the conveying frame 40. In the example shown, the connectors 122 take the form of a plurality of snap-on hooks 124a, 124b, 124c, 124d (which may also be collectively referred to as snap-on hooks 124). The snap-on hooks 124 are arranged in two inwardly facing pairs (in this case, a first pair of hooks 124a, 124b and a second set of hooks 124c, 124d) such that a portion of the conveying frame 40 can be inserted between the two pairs. The arrangement of two (or more) sets of hooks 124 may be referred to as a "set" 126 of snap-on hooks. As shown in FIG. Figure 11 As can be seen in FIG, the protrusions on each end of the snap hooks 124 insert (or snap into) corresponding slots on the conveyor frame 40 so that the connection assembly 100 is held in position relative to the conveyor frame 40 and attached to the conveyor frame 40 via the snap hooks 124.

[0109] The snap hook 124 is located on the first housing portion 102 and extends upward away from the first housing portion 102. Figure 10 As shown, the openings 108 and the snap-on hook groups 126 are alternately arranged along at least a portion of the length of the first housing portion 102. In this manner, the hook groups 126 are located between pairs of openings 108. At the ends of the first housing portion 102, there are two half-pairs of snap-on hooks 127 instead of the snap-on hook groups 126. Figure 11 As can be seen in FIG, these half pairs of snap-on hooks 127 are connected to the conveyor frame 40 in the same manner as previously described.

[0110] Connectors 122 attach connection assembly 100 to conveyor frame 40 (via one or more corresponding apertures provided in conveyor frame 40) such that connection assembly 100 is substantially centrally positioned relative to aperture 42 of conveyor frame 40. In this manner, aperture 108 of housing 106 is substantially centrally positioned within aperture 42 of conveyor frame 40 in both the x- and y-directions. Furthermore, each aperture 108 is substantially centrally positioned relative to the width of first housing portion 102. Because each aperture 108 forms a portion of each receptacle 112, each receptacle 112 is centrally positioned within aperture 42 of conveyor frame 40 and substantially centrally positioned relative to the width of first housing portion 102.

[0111] Return reference e.g. in Figure 4 In the previous example shown in , the control mechanism 28 of the conveyor module 2 is offset relative to the centerline of the conveyor module 2. Because the opening 108 of the connection assembly 100 is substantially centrally located relative to the opening of the conveyor frame 40 (as described above), certain modifications can be made to the conveyor module so that the control mechanism 28 of the conveyor module 2 can establish an electrical connection with the PCB 110 of the connection assembly 100 when the conveyor module 2 is installed within the opening 42 of the conveyor frame 40.

[0112] In particular, the housing 107 of the conveyor module 2 can be modified so that the control mechanism 28 is centrally located in the x- and y-directions within the conveyor module 2. The modified housing 107 enables the control mechanism 28 to be located below the motor 20 rather than adjacent to the motor 20 (e.g., Figure 4 situation in the middle).

[0113] Figure 12 The underside of two conveyor modules 2 is shown, each conveyor module 2 having a control mechanism 28 within a housing 107 . Figure 12 The line XX in FIG. 1 is the centerline through the conveyor module 2 along the x-axis. Lines Y1-Y1 and Y2-Y2 illustrate the centerline through each conveyor module 2 along the y-axis. In this case, the x-axis and y-axis are perpendicular and both lie in a horizontal plane. As shown, each control mechanism 28 is located on a centerline. Thus, the control mechanism 28 is centrally located within the opening 42 of the conveyor frame 40, thereby aligning with the receptacle 112 of the connection assembly 100 (and therefore with the electrical connection point 130 on the PCB 110).

[0114] If you can also Figure 11 and Figure 12As can be seen at least partially in FIG, adjacent conveyor modules 2 are arranged alternately along the connector assembly 100, rotated 90 degrees relative to one another. This alternating arrangement provides for a better tessellation of the conveyor modules 2 when the conveyor modules 2 are installed within the conveyor frame 40. Due to this alternating arrangement, the orientations of the control mechanisms 28 on adjacent conveyor modules 2 also alternate and are rotated 90 degrees relative to one another. This means that adjacent electrical connection points 130 on the PCB 110 within the connector assembly 100 must also be rotated alternately 90 degrees relative to one another so that the control mechanisms 28 of adjacent conveyor modules 2 can each form an electrical connection with the PCB 110 of the control system 60 of the conveyor frame 40.

[0115] Again, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the previous example shown in FIG, the chute 30 extends substantially the entire length of one side of the conveyor module 2. To avoid potential interference between the chute 30 and the connection assembly 100 when the conveyor module 2 is installed within the conveyor frame 40 and the connection assembly 100 is attached to the conveyor frame 40, certain modifications to the chute are required to ensure that the control mechanism 28 of the conveyor module 2 can establish an electrical connection with the PCB 110 of the connection assembly 100 when the conveyor module 2 is installed within the opening 42 of the conveyor frame 40.

[0116] Figure 13 An example of a modified chute 131 is shown. In this example, the width of the chute 131 has been reduced compared to the width of the previous chute 30 so that the modified chute 131 extends only a portion of the length of one side of the conveyor module 2. For example, Figure 12 As shown, the modified chute 130 may extend less than half the length of one side of the conveyor module 2. Figure 13 As shown, this arrangement allows a modified chute 131 to pass through the connection assembly 100 and extend downwardly along one side of the connection assembly 100. The modified chute 131 functions in the same manner as before, i.e., when the conveyor module 2 is inserted into the opening 42 of the conveyor frame 40, the chute 131 extends through the connection assembly 100, and the opening 132 at the end of the chute 131 also extends through the connection assembly 100 to allow dust and water to drain from the interior of the housing 6 of the conveyor module 2 to the exterior. Because the PCB 110 and the electrical connection points 130 are located within the connection assembly 100, the arrangement of the modified chute 131 also ensures that the discharged dust and water do not deposit on the PCB 110 and do not come into contact with any other enclosed electrical components.

[0117] Figure 14Another embodiment of a connection assembly 200 is shown. The connection assembly 200 generally includes similar features to the previous connection assembly 100 and functions in the same manner as previously described, so for ease of understanding, the same reference numerals will be used for these features in the following description of the connection assembly 200.

[0118] As previously mentioned, the connection assembly 200 includes a plurality of openings 108, each opening 108 corresponding to at least one of the electrical connection points 130 on the PCB 110 inside the housing 106. Figure 17 As shown, a plurality of openings 108 are spaced apart from one another along the elongated first housing portion 102. Openings 108 are alternately offset from one another along the length of first housing portion 102. In other words, with respect to a centerline 133 of first housing portion 102, adjacent openings 108 are alternately located on one side of centerline 133 and on the other side of centerline 133. Furthermore, electrical connection point 130 is configured to fit within opening 108, rendering opening 108 substantially closed or sealed from the external environment. Thus, receptacle 112 is disposed within opening 108.

[0119] When the control mechanism 28 of a conveyor module 2 is received in each receptacle 112, the conveyor modules 2 are thereby arranged in a row or line along the first housing portion 102. Figure 18 As can be seen in FIG, in this case, instead of the control mechanism 28 being positioned substantially centrally within each conveyor module 2 (e.g. Figure 12 ), but the control mechanism 28 can be deflected to one side (e.g., Figure 1-Figure 4 shown).

[0120] As previously mentioned, the PCB 110 forming part of the control system 60 is housed within the housing 106 formed by the first housing portion 102 and the second housing portion 104. Figure 15 The opening 108 forms part of a socket 112 for receiving the control mechanism 28 of the conveyor module 2 to establish an electrical connection between the conveyor module 2 and the control system 60 of the conveyor frame 40 in the same manner as described above.

[0121] As previously described, in order to electrically connect the control mechanism 28 of the conveyor module 2 to the PCB 110, each electrical connection point 130 on the PCB 110 that is electrically connected to the control mechanism 28 is associated with an opening 108. Each electrical connection point 130 is substantially located below the opening 108 of the first housing portion 102. Figure 14 and Figure 15In the example shown, at least a portion of electrical connection point 130 extends through opening 108 away from PCB 110. In this case, electrical connection point 130 may take the form of a PCI connector mounted to PCB 110. In some examples, the connection point does not extend through aperture 108.

[0122] like Figure 14 As shown, the connection assembly 200 includes a connector 122 that allows the connection assembly 200 to be attached to the conveying frame 40 through an attachment hole 123 provided in the conveying frame 40 in the same manner as previously described. Figure 16 As shown, two openings 108 are located between the hook sets 126 , one opening 108 on one side of the centerline 133 of the first housing portion 102 and the other opening 108 on the other side of the centerline 133 of the first housing portion 102 .

[0123] like Figure 18 As shown, the connector 122 attaches the connection assembly 200 to the conveying frame 40 so that the connection assembly 200 is substantially centrally positioned between the two holes 42 of the conveying frame 40. In this way, one connection assembly 200 is associated with two adjacent rows (or columns) of openings in the conveying frame 40. The offset arrangement of the openings 108 facilitates that one connection assembly 200 can be used with two adjacent rows or columns of conveyor modules 2. For example, the openings 108 that are offset on one side are associated with the conveyor modules 2 of the first row (or column), and the openings 108 that are offset on the other side are associated with the conveyor modules 2 of the adjacent row (or column). This arrangement reduces the number of such connection assemblies that need to be used with the conveying frame 40. For example, with Figures 8 to 13 Compared to the connection assembly 100 shown in FIG, when using Figures 14 to 18 In order to enable the conveyor module 2 to be received by the opening 108 and to establish an electrical connection with the PCB 110, the conveyor module 2 used with the connection assembly 200 of this configuration should have a control mechanism 28 that is offset relative to the center of the conveyor module 2, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 shown.

[0124] Although the foregoing is directed to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, it should be understood that the present invention is described herein by way of example only and that modifications of detail may be made within the scope of the invention. Indeed, other and further embodiments of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from a consideration of the specification and may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof as determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A connection assembly for electrically connecting a plurality of conveyor modules to form a conveyor system, each conveyor module having a control mechanism, the connection assembly comprising: a housing having a plurality of spaced-apart openings; as well as a printed circuit board (PCB) enclosed within the housing, the PCB comprising a plurality of electrical connection points, each electrical connection point being aligned with one of the plurality of openings in the housing; Each opening is configured to receive a portion of the control mechanism of the conveyor module, so that the opening establishes an electrical connection with the packaged PCB by means of a direct physical connection between the control mechanism of the conveyor module and a corresponding electrical connection point on the packaged PCB.

2. The connection assembly according to claim 1, wherein: A PCB forms part of the control mechanism of each conveyor module and the electrical connection point is configured to establish a direct physical connection with the PCB.

3. The connection assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The electrical connection point includes a PCI connector.

4. The connection assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The number of the electrical connection points is the same as the number of the openings.

5. A connection assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein The opening is configured to receive the portion of the control mechanism such that the control mechanism substantially closes and preferably seals the opening to the external environment.

6. A connection assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein: Each electrical connection point extends away from the PCB and at least partially into the opening.

7. The connection assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: Each aperture forms part of a socket configured to establish an electrical connection with an electrical connector of a conveyor module such that electrical communication is established between the conveyor module and at least one of the electrical connection points.

8. A connection assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein Each aperture is centrally located relative to the width of the first housing portion.

9. A connection assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein: Each aperture includes a raised perimeter.

10. The connection assembly according to claim 9, wherein: The raised perimeter includes an inclined portion.

11. A connection assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein The housing includes a first housing portion and a second housing portion, the first housing portion and the second housing portion being arranged to enclose the PCB therebetween.

12. The connection assembly according to claim 11, wherein: The first and second housing portions each have an elongated configuration, wherein the plurality of openings are spaced apart to arrange received conveyor modules in a row.

13. A connection assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein The first and second housing parts are arranged to be attached together using an interlocking hook arrangement, preferably wherein the interlocking hook arrangement extends along at least a portion of the length of both the first and second housing parts.

14. A connection assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein The plurality of electrical connection points are alternately arranged such that adjacent electrical connection points have different orientations.

15. The connection assembly according to claim 14, wherein: The orientations of the adjacent electrical connection points differ by 90 degrees or 180 degrees.

16. A connection assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein The plurality of electrical connection points are alternately arranged on either side of a longitudinal centerline of the first housing portion.

17. A connection assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The connection assembly includes a plurality of connectors configured to attach the connection assembly to a delivery frame of a delivery system.

18. The connection assembly according to claim 17, wherein: The plurality of connectors are configured to engage with one or more slots on the conveyor frame.

19. The connection assembly according to claim 17 or 18, wherein: The plurality of connectors are located on the first housing portion.

20. The connection assembly according to any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein: The plurality of connectors are arranged in pairs along at least a portion of the length of the first housing portion.

21. The connection assembly according to any one of claims 17 to 20, wherein: The connectors and the openings are alternately arranged along at least a portion of the length of the first housing portion.

22. A conveyor module arranged to be connected to a connection assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein The conveyor module comprises: at least one rotatable element comprising an engagement surface configured to engage a surface of an object to be transported; a drive mechanism configured to rotate the at least one rotatable element such that rotation of the at least one rotatable element causes rotation of the engagement surface and thereby movement of the object; and a control mechanism configured to control rotation of the rotatable element; Wherein, the driving mechanism and the control mechanism are arranged in vertical alignment; Wherein, the control mechanism extends away from the conveyor module and is arranged to form an electrical connection with at least one of the plurality of electrical connection points of the connection assembly.

23. The conveyor module of claim 22, wherein: The control mechanism includes a printed circuit board (PCB).

24. A conveyor module according to claim 22 or 23, wherein At least a portion of the control mechanism is arranged to be received by the opening in the connection assembly.

25. The conveyor module of claim 24, wherein Said portion of said control mechanism is arranged to substantially close and preferably seal said opening to the external environment.

26. A conveyor module according to any one of claims 22 to 25, further comprising a housing, wherein The housing is configured to at least partially house the control mechanism and at least partially house the drive mechanism.

27. The conveyor module of claim 26, wherein: The control mechanism extends at least partially through the housing.

28. A conveyor module according to any one of claims 22 to 27, further comprising a through passage extending between a first opening in the top of the conveyor module and a second opening in a chute, the chute being configured to extend away from the conveyor module, preferably wherein The chute extends across less than half the length of one side of the conveyor module.

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