Conveyor belt closure device, conveyor belt and conveyor belt closure method

Abstract

CONVEYOR BELT CLOSING DEVICE, CONVEYOR BELT AND CONVEYOR BELT CLOSING METHOD A conveyor belt closing device (5) (1) has first and second ends (1a; 1b) defining clips with series of holes (5a). To close the conveyor belt, the clips are arranged alternately with the opposite series of holes (5a) to form a through hole. The stem (6) is formed by a first part (6a) and a second part (6b), each ending in a ring button. The two parts (6a, 6b) pass through the holes (5a) and meet in a single clip.

Description

Title of the invention: CONVEYOR BELT CLOSING DEVICE, CONVEYOR BELT AND CONVEYOR BELT CLOSING METHOD technical field

[0001] The invention relates to a conveyor belt closure device, a conveyor belt, and a method for closing a conveyor belt. Prior art

[0002] To transport products, for example food products, it is known to use conveyors equipped with belts. The belts are generally made of polymer material.

[0003] Conventionally, the conveyor belt is in the form of an openable ring, meaning that the first and second ends of the belt are separable. To open and close the belt, it is known to form series of clips at each end. The two series of clips are arranged alternately to close the belt and define a series of holes at the first end and a series of holes at the second end. The two series of holes are mounted opposite each other, and a rod passes alternately through the holes at the first and second ends. The rod prevents the two ends from separating. Depending on the configuration, the rod is mounted in a removable or non-removable manner.

[0004] The conveyor belt is driven by means of a drive wheel. The conveyor belt deforms to follow the curvature imposed by the drive wheel. The closure of the conveyor belt by two sets of clips, through which a connecting rod passes, results in the formation of a textured area with gaps that are conducive to the introduction of impurities and difficult to clean. In the food industry, it is particularly important that the conveyor belt be as neutral as possible with respect to the food it carries and, in particular, that it not introduce bacterial contamination.

[0005] It is known to form a first end and a second end of conveyor belt which define one or two series of holes which are intended to come opposite each other to close the conveyor belt.

[0006] In one embodiment, several rods are introduced into the same through hole, which implies the formation of a very incomplete filling of the cross-section of the through hole and therefore the formation of an empty area which can store impurities.

[0007] In another embodiment, a rod is inserted into the through hole and then cut to fit the width of the conveyor belt. The adaptation The ratio of the length of the rod to the width of the conveyor belt is approximate, so the connection between the rod and the side wall is a preferred area for bacterial contamination.

[0008] It is also known to install the rod in the through hole and then melt the ends of the rod to make it impossible to remove. The shape of the fusion bead is not well controlled, so the fusion bead has an irregular shape with concavities that are difficult to clean and are not conducive to good management of bacterial contamination. Object of the invention

[0009] An object of the invention consists of providing a closure device for a conveyor belt which makes it possible to form a closure zone in which bacterial contamination linked to the stem is better controlled than in the prior art configuration while allowing easy dismantling of the closure device to facilitate its possible cleaning.

[0010] This problem is to be solved by means of a conveyor belt closure device comprising: - a first end of a conveyor belt defining first staples with at least a first series of holes having a first diameter; - a second end of the conveyor belt defining second clips with at least a first series of holes having the first diameter, in a closing position of the conveyor belt, the first clips and the second clips form an alternation and the first series of holes are aligned to form a first through hole extending over a full width of the conveyor belt; - a first rod passing through the first series of holes to join the first end and the second end, the first rod being removable from the first end and the second end.

[0011] The closing device is remarkable in that the first rod is formed by means of a first part and a second part, each of which has an end stop limiting the maximum penetration of each of the first part and the second part into the first through hole.

[0012] Each end stop forms a button defining a continuous annular contact area with a lateral face of one of the first and second clips around the two ends of the first through hole. The first and second parts meet inside the same clip of the first and second clips.

[0013] Advantageously, the first part defines with the second part an empty area inside said staple.

[0014] In a particular configuration, the thickness of the end stop is greater than the first diameter by at least 10% and less than an average thickness of the first and second clips.

[0015] Preferably, the conveyor belt closure device comprises only a first rod. The clip receives the end of the first part and the end of the second part is located in a central third in a transverse direction.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the closure device for an openable conveyor belt comprises a first rod and a second rod offset along a longitudinal direction of the conveyor belt. The first rod and the second rod are each formed in two parts. The clip receiving the end of the first part and the end of the second part of the first rod is located in a first third along a transverse direction different from that of the clip receiving the end of the first part and the end of the second part of the second rod.

[0017] According to another embodiment, the closing device for an openable conveyor belt comprises a first rod and a second rod offset along a longitudinal direction of the conveyor belt. The first rod and the second rod are each formed in two parts. The end stop of the first part of the first rod is monolithic with the end stop of the first part of the second rod to form a stiffener whose thickness is greater than or equal to the average diameter of the first and second rods and less than the thickness of the first and second clips at least between the first and second rods.

[0018] The invention also relates to a conveyor belt which has a closure device in which bacterial contamination linked to the stem is better controlled than in the prior art configuration while allowing easy dismantling of the closure device to facilitate its possible cleaning.

[0019] This result is to be achieved by means of a conveyor belt comprising a closing device according to any one of the preceding configurations.

[0020] The invention also relates to a method of closing a conveyor belt which is easier to use than prior art belts and which allows better management of bacterial contamination.

[0021] This result is to be achieved by means of a method for closing a conveyor belt which comprises: - provide a conveyor belt having a first end defining first staples with at least a first series of holes having a first diameter and a second end defining second staples with at least a first series of holes having the first diameter, - close the conveyor belt, the first staples and the second staples forming an alternation and the first series of holes being aligned to form a first through hole extending over the entire width of the conveyor belt; - introduce a first part of a first rod passing through the first series of holes to join the first end and the second end, the first part of the first rod being detachable from the first end and the second end, the first part of the first rod ending in a clip of the first clips and the second clips; - introduce a second part of the first rod passing through the first series of holes to secure the first end and the second end, the second part of the first rod being detachable from the first end and the second end, the second part of the first rod ending in said clip of the first clips and the second clips. Brief description of the drawings

[0022] Other advantages and features will become clearer from the following description of particular embodiments and implementations of the invention given by way of non-limiting examples and shown in the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0023] [Fig-1]: [Fig.1] schematically illustrates a perspective view of a conveyor equipped with a conveyor belt and a drive wheel;

[0024] [Fig.2] : [Fig.2] schematically illustrates a perspective view of a conveyor belt closure device according to the invention;

[0025] [Fig.3] : [Fig.3] schematically illustrates a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a clip of a closing device, with the conveyor belt open;

[0026] [Fig.4] : [Fig.4] schematically illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a closing device in the closed position;

[0027] [Fig.5] : [Fig.5] schematically illustrates a side view of a closing device in the closed position;

[0028] [Fig.6] : [Fig.6] schematically illustrates a perspective view of one end of a conveyor belt with a series of staples;

[0029] [Fig.7] : [Fig.7] schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a closing device in the closed position, the rods being made in two parts;

[0030] [Fig.8]: [Fig.8] schematically illustrates, in top view, two rods being inserted into the clips of the closing device;

[0031] [Fig.9] : [Fig.9] schematically illustrates a perspective view of a closure device for a conveyor belt deformed to follow the curvature of a wheel, the closure device being in the open position;

[0032] [Fig. 10]: [Fig. 10] schematically illustrates a perspective view in the inner face of one end of a conveyor belt;

[0033] [Fig. 11] : [Fig. 11] schematically illustrates a perspective view of a closure device for a conveyor belt deformed to follow the curvature of a wheel, the closure device being in the closed position, the rods being partially extracted;

[0034] [Fig. 12]: [Fig. 12] schematically illustrates a perspective view of the closing device in contact with a wheel;

[0035] [Fig. 13]: [Fig. 13] schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of the closing device with the rods inserted, one rod being made in two parts;

[0036] [Fig. 14]: [Fig. 14] schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of the closing device with the rods inserted, one rod being made in two parts, the rods being fitted with a blocker;

[0037] [Fig. 15]: [Fig. 15] schematically illustrates a perspective view of two rods connected by a stiffener;

[0038] [Fig.16]: [Fig.16] schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of a closure device for a conveyor belt rotating around a toothed wheel;

[0039] [Fig. 17]: [Fig. 17] schematically illustrates a perspective view of a closing device rotating around a toothed wheel and in contact with a scraper;

[0040] [Fig. 18]: [Fig. 18] schematically illustrates a side view of a conveyor belt closure device rotating around a toothed wheel and in contact with a scraper;

[0041] [Fig.19] : [Fig.19] schematically illustrates a perspective view of a deformed closing device to follow the curvature of a toothed wheel, the closing device being offset from the toothed wheel to illustrate the arrangement of the clips;

[0042] [Fig.20]: [Fig.20] schematically illustrates a side view of another embodiment of a device for closing a conveyor belt rotating around a toothed wheel and in contact with a scraper;

[0043] [Fig.21]: [Fig.21] schematically illustrates a perspective view of a device closing mechanism equipped with a single rod with an annular end stop;

[0044] [Fig.22]: [Fig.22] schematically illustrates a perspective view of the closing device of [Fig.21], with the stem partially extracted;

[0045] [Fig.23]: [Fig.23] schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of the closing device of [Fig.21];

[0046] [Fig.24]: [Fig.24] schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of the closing device of [Fig.21], the stem being made in two parts which join in the same clip;

[0047] [Fig.25] : [Fig.25] schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of the closing device of [Fig.21], the stem being made in two parts which join in the same clip in the middle position according to the width. Description of the implementation methods

[0048] Figure 1 illustrates a conveyor equipped with a conveyor belt 1 driven in motion by means of a drive device partially represented by a first wheel 2, which is a drive wheel, and a second wheel 3, which can be either a drive wheel or a follower wheel. The drive of the conveyor belt 1 by the first wheel 2, and optionally the second wheel 3, can be achieved by a plurality of teeth 4 that form transverse crossbars. The teeth 4 extend predominantly in a transverse direction YY, which corresponds to the width of the conveyor belt 1. The drive wheel 2 is connected to a motor and is preferably a toothed wheel equipped with teeth 2a. The teeth 4 of the conveyor belt 1 are repeated with a repetition pitch P along the longitudinal direction XX.

[0049] The conveyor belt 1 is an openable conveyor belt equipped with a closing device 5. Figures 1 and 2 illustrate a conveyor belt 1 in the closed state while [Fig.9] illustrates a conveyor belt 1 in the open state.

[0050] As illustrated in Figures 1 to 25, the conveyor belt closure device 5 comprises a first end la and a second end 1b. The first end la defines a plurality of first clips le and the second end 1b defines a plurality of second clips Id. The first clips le project in the longitudinal direction XX, forming an alternation between raised and recessed areas as illustrated in [Fig. 10]. The second clips Id also project in the longitudinal direction XX, forming an alternation between raised and recessed areas as illustrated in [Fig. 6].

[0051] To close the conveyor belt 1, the first staples le are inserted between the second staples Id and vice versa. In the closed position of the conveyor belt 1, there is an alternation between the first staples le and the second staples Id along the transverse direction YY, as illustrated in Figures 4, 7, and 11 to 14. When the conveyor belt 1 is closed, it forms a ring. The conveyor belt 1 has an inner face A and an outer face B that are opposite along the direction ZZ, which defines the thickness. When the conveyor belt 1 is open, the first end la and the second end 1b are opposite along the longitudinal direction XX, which is perpendicular to the transverse direction YY and perpendicular to the direction ZZ of the thickness.

[0052] As illustrated in Figures 3, 5, 6, 9, 10, 11, 13 and 14, the first clips le and the second clips Id each define a first set of holes 5a and a second set of holes 5b. The holes in the first set of holes 5a are offset from the holes in the second set of holes 5b along the longitudinal direction XX. When the conveyor belt 1 is closed, the holes in the first set of holes 5a at the first end la and the second end 1b are aligned alternately one behind the other along the transverse direction YY to form a first through hole that extends across the entire width of the conveyor belt 1.When the conveyor belt 1 is closed, the holes of the second set of holes 5b of the first end la and of the second end 1b are aligned alternately one behind the other in the transverse direction YY to form a second through hole which extends over the entire width of the conveyor belt 1. It is advantageous for the holes to have a circular cross-section to facilitate insertion.

[0053] A first rod 6 is inserted into the first set of holes 5a to close the conveyor belt 1 and join the first end 1a with the second end 1b. A second rod 7 is inserted into the second set of holes 5b to close the conveyor belt 1 and join the two ends. The first rod 6 and the second rod 6 pass through the first set of holes 5a and the second set of holes 5b to join the two ends. The first rod 6 is offset from the second rod 7 along the longitudinal direction XX of the conveyor belt 1. When the conveyor belt 1 is open, it is substantially rectangular in shape. The longitudinal direction XX is the direction of the longest dimension. The longitudinal direction XX is perpendicular to the transverse direction YY. The length is greater than the width, which is greater than the thickness.The rods 6 and 7 extend across the entire width so as to form a connection between all the first staples le and the second staples Id. Preferably, the first rod 6 and / or the second rod 7 are mounted detachably with respect to the first end la and the second end 2b.

[0054] Figures 1, 2, 4, 7, 8, 11, 12, 13, 14, and 16 to 25 illustrate a closure device 5 in a position closing the conveyor belt 1. The first clips 1e and the second clips 1d are arranged alternately along the transverse direction YY, and the rods 6 and 7 pass alternately through the first clips 1e and the second clips 1d to fix the two ends together. Preferably, the first rod 6 has a circular cross-section with a first diameter. It is also advantageous for the second rod 7 to have a circular cross-section with a second diameter. Even more advantageously, the first diameter is equal to the second diameter.

[0055] In order to form a closure device whose mechanical behavior in the closed position is closer to that of the rest of the conveyor belt, it is advantageous to provide a closure device that prevents the rotation of the first end 1a relative to the second end 1b. It is also advantageous to provide a simple configuration to facilitate the assembly and closure of the conveyor belt 1. Furthermore, it is advantageous to seek a configuration that allows the use of first clips 1 and second clips 1d having simple shapes to facilitate the cleaning of the closure device 5.

[0056] To prevent the rotation of the first end la relative to the second end 1b, it is advantageous to use a first rod 6 and a second rod 7 mounted in two separate holes and offset along the longitudinal direction XX.

[0057] However, even though the use of two rods limits or even prevents the rotation of the clips of the closure device relative to each other, the lack of rigidity inherent in the configuration of the closure device itself causes gaps to open during a complete rotation of the conveyor belt. This promotes the retention of material on the closure device and can induce bacterial growth. Contrary to expectations, it has been observed that a localized increase in the rigidity of the closure device reduces bacterial growth by limiting the appearance of gaps without unduly complicating the management of the closure device's passage along wheels 2 and 3.

[0058] To locally increase the rigidity of the closing device 5 in the closed position without increasing its overall size, it is advantageous to have a separation distance D between the central axis of the first rod 6 and the central axis of the second rod 7 that is less than four times or three times the average diameter of the first rod 6 and the second rod 7. This makes it particularly useful to effectively stiffen the area between the two rods. When the rod 6 / 7 has a circular cross-section, the central axis corresponds to the center of the circle. When the rod's cross-section is not circular, the central axis follows the center of gravity of the various sections perpendicular to the direction YY. The average diameter corresponds to the sum of the first and second diameters, divided by two.

[0059] When the distance between the central axes of the first rod 6 and the second rod 7 becomes too large, a significant deflection of the closing device 5 is observed and the mechanical behavior of the closing device 5 is more difficult to manage when the closing device 5 travels along a first wheel 2 or a second wheel 3.

[0060] As illustrated in [Fig. 4], it is particularly advantageous for the separation distance D to be less than four times the average diameter of the first rod 6 and the second rod 7, and even more preferably less than three times the average diameter of the first rod 6 and the second rod 7 or even equal to twice the average diameter of the first rod 6 and the second rod 7.

[0061] Advantageously, the first clips le at the first end la and the second clips Id at the second end 1b have a simple shape, for example, a rectangular, square, semi-circular, or semi-ovoid cross-section. Preferably, the first clips le and the second clips Id have a convex termination along the XX direction, i.e., bulging outwards. The use of a simple, and preferably convex, shape facilitates cleaning of the clip. The use of a shape without concavity or without concavity with a small radius of curvature facilitates cleaning of the fastening device 5 and prevents bacterial growth when the conveyor belt 1 carries foodstuffs.

[0062] It is particularly advantageous to have a first end 1a with first clips 1a terminating in a circular arc connecting the inner face A and the outer face B. The second end 1b has a concave surface in the form of a circular arc whose shape is complementary to the terminal portion of the first clips 1a. Advantageously, the same is true for the second clips 1d and for the portions of the first end 1a that are opposite each other, that is, between the opposing clips. The use of a circular arc of opposite polarity facilitates cleaning between the clips. The two complementary shapes facilitate cleaning. Preferably, the radius of curvature of the circular arc is smaller than the distance between the terminal wall of the clip defining the circular arc and the center of the nearest through hole.

[0063] Preferably, the first rod 6 is separated from the second rod 7 by a distance C less than twice the average diameter of the first rod 6 and the second rod 7, more preferably less than 1.5 times the average diameter of the first rod 6 and the second rod 7. Even more preferably, the first rod 6 is separated from the second rod 7 by a distance C greater than or equal to 0.5 times the average diameter of the first rod 6 and the second rod 7, and even more preferably greater than or equal to 0.75 times the average diameter of the first rod 6 and the second rod 7, or greater than one times the average diameter of the first rod 6 and the second rod 7. When the distance C is less than 0.5 times the average diameter, this may result in a decrease in mechanical performance.Unexpectedly, bringing the first rod 6 and the second rod 7 closer together results in an increase in mechanical rigidity without any apparent degradation of tear resistance. This configuration is more advantageous than a single thicker rod or two thicker rods placed further apart.

[0064] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the two rods 6 and 7 have a circular section with a diameter equal to a first value and the two rods 6 and 7 are separated by a distance equal to the first value.

[0065] The use of a rod, or each rod, having a circular cross-section facilitates the insertion of the rods into series of holes with complementary shapes, i.e., holes with a circular cross-section and a diameter substantially identical to that of the rods. Since the rods and holes have substantially identical cross-sections, this allows for effective locking of the first end with the second end, thus harmonizing the mechanical behavior between the fastening zone and the rest of the conveyor belt.

[0066] By bringing the first rod 6 and the second rod 7 closer together and adapting the ratio between the diameter of the rods and the thickness of the clips, it is possible to stiffen the closing device without significantly increasing the size of the closing device 5.

[0067] The use of two rods 6 and 7 offset along the XX direction to secure the staples makes it possible to limit or even prevent the rotation of the two staples relative to each other. However, this configuration does not prevent the presence of undesirable mechanical behavior at the ends of the staples. Therefore, the aim is to create a rigid point between the two rods and advantageously slightly around them so that the staples deform minimally during rotation, thus avoiding the exposure of hard-to-reach areas that could be conducive to bacterial growth.

[0068] By using two rods that connect the two clips, 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, it is possible to increase the rigidity of the closing device 5 in the closed position to approach or even exceed the rigidity of the rest of the conveyor belt.

[0069] Using staples le and Id that are thicker than the rest of the conveyor belt 1 makes it possible to stiffen the closure device 5 so that its behavior is closer to that of the rest of the conveyor belt 1. By using staples le and Id whose thickness is less than or equal to twice the thickness of the rest of the conveyor belt 1 in combination with closely spaced rods 6 and 7, it is possible to form a closure device 5 that has mechanical behavior close to or identical to that of the rest of the conveyor belt 1. The doubling of the thickness between the staples 6 and 7 and the rest of the conveyor belt 1 can be managed by the equipment associated with the conveyor belt 1, for example a scraper 8 which is arranged to scrape the outer face B. This technical solution is particularly advantageous because it is simple to implement while limiting the size of the closure device 5.

[0070] Advantageously, the average thickness of the first staples le and the thickness of the second staples Id are each less than or equal to twice an average thickness of the conveyor belt 1 and greater by at least 10% than the average thickness of the conveyor belt 1. The average thickness is calculated from one end to the other along the direction XX without taking into account the teeth 4 intended for driving the conveyor belt 1 where applicable.

[0071] Preferably, the thicknesses of the first staples 1 and the second staples 1d are 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 farthest opposite ends along the XX direction. More preferably, the thickness is equal and constant to twice the average thickness of the conveyor belt outside the first and second staples.

[0072] In order to have a mechanical behavior of the closure device 5 that closes the conveyor belt 1 that is close to that of the rest of the conveyor belt, it is advantageous to limit the length of the staples. Preferably, the first staples 1 and the second staples 1d extend over a distance less than or equal to five or six times the average diameter of the first rod 6 and the second rod 7 along a longitudinal direction XX of the conveyor belt 1. It is advantageous to have staples whose length is less than four times or three times the separation distance between the central axes of the rods 6 and 7, i.e., the distance D. It is also preferable that the staples have a length that is less than 10 times the average thickness of the staples, advantageously less than 5 times the average thickness of the staples.

[0073] The length is calculated as the projecting dimension from the side face along the XX direction, i.e., the overlap length between the first staples le and the second staples Id. Such a limitation on the staple length allows the use of thin staples, for example, staples whose average thickness is 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 staples have a thickness at least equal to the rest of the conveyor belt 1, i.e., between the first end la and the second end 1b outside the closing device 5. The thickness is measured without taking into account the teeth 4, if any.Since the surface area occupied by the closing device 5 relative to the conveyor belt 1 is small, the thickness of the remainder of the conveyor belt 1 can be approximated by the average thickness of the conveyor belt 1 (ignoring the teeth 4 where applicable).

[0074] To increase the rigidity of the measuring device 5, it is preferable that the increase in thickness of the staple extend beyond the overlap area over a distance less than the overlap zone. Preferably, the thickness should increase continuously up to the beginning of the protruding portion along the XX direction, and even more preferably without reaching the height of the through holes along the ZZ direction. The overlap zone is the overlap area between staples I and Id along the YY direction.

[0075] By increasing the rigidity of the fastening device 5, the forces applied to the rods are increased. In order to avoid excessive shear stress on the rods connecting the staples, it is advantageous to increase the width of the staples. It is preferable to have first and second staples with a width greater than twice the average diameter of the first rod 6 and the second rod 7, preferably more than 2.5 or three times. The width is measured along the YY direction. With the use of a two-rod fastener, it is possible to increase the staple spacing.

[0076] In order to provide a closure device 5 whose rigidity is closer to that of the rest of the conveyor belt, it is preferable to have first staples and second staples whose width is greater than twice the average thickness of the conveyor belt, more preferably greater than three times the average thickness of the conveyor belt.

[0077] More preferably, the width of the first and second staples is greater than twice the average diameter of the first and second rods and greater than twice the average thickness of the conveyor belt to reduce shear stresses on the rods 6 and 7.

[0078] Advantageously, the conveyor belt 1 is made of polymer material, preferably a single material, for example polyurethane. It is particularly advantageous to form the closure device 5 monolithically with the rest of the conveyor belt 1, with the exception of the rods.

[0079] It is advantageous for the first rod 6 to be made of metal or a polymer material. When the first rod 6 is made of a polymer material, it is preferable for it to be made of the same material as the conveyor belt 1. It is also advantageous to choose a material with a Young's modulus equal to or greater than that of the material forming the rest of the conveyor belt, preferably the clips. With such materials, it is possible to form rods that stiffen the closure device. The second rod 7 is preferably made of the same material as the first rod 6.

[0080] Preferably, the average thickness of the conveyor belt 1 between the first rod 6 and the second rod 7, i.e., the thickness of the first staples 1 and the second staples 1d, is less than three times the average diameter of the first rod 6 and the second rod 7. Preferably, the thickness The average of the first and second staples is between 1.5 times and 2.5 times the average diameter of the first rod 6 and the second rod 7, preferably equal to twice the average diameter of the first rod 6 and the second rod 7. Such a configuration allows for good rigidity of the closing device 5 without significantly increasing the size of the closing device 5. The average thickness is measured in the protruding part along the XX direction.

[0081] It is particularly advantageous that the average diameter of the rods 6 and 7 be at least equal to half the average thickness of the conveyor belt 1 between the 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 the two ends and outside the closing device. It is advantageous that the thickness not exceed 1.25 times the average thickness of the conveyor belt 1 between the two ends and outside the closing device 5.

[0082] In an advantageous embodiment, the diameter of the first rod 6 and the diameter of the second rod 7 are greater than 0.5 times the average thickness of the conveyor belt 1 measured from one end to the other along the longitudinal direction XX of the conveyor belt 1 and from one end to the other along the transverse direction YY of the conveyor belt 1. Preferably, the diameter of the first rod 6 and the diameter of the second rod 7 are greater than 0.75 or 0.8 times the average thickness of the conveyor belt 1. The average thickness is measured without the teeth 4, if any. It is advantageous that the diameter of the rods 6 and 7 not be too small so as not to weaken the rods.By using rods whose diameters are close to the average thickness of the conveyor belt, it is possible to form rods whose mechanical resistance is compatible with the stresses experienced by the conveyor belt 1 without increasing the size of the closing device 5.

[0083] It is also advantageous for the diameter of the first rod 6 and the diameter of the second rod 7 to be less than 1.5 times the average thickness of the conveyor belt 1 measured from one end to the other along the longitudinal direction XX of the conveyor belt 1 and from one end to the other along the transverse direction YY of the conveyor belt 1. This prevents the formation of an excessively thick closure device 5. When the closure device is too thick, it makes the use of the conveyor belt more difficult because the excess thickness alters the behavior of the closure device 5 relative to the rest of the conveyor belt 1. This also complicates the conveyor belt drive mechanism and / or the use of a scraper 8 intended to scrape the outer face B of the conveyor belt. Figures 17 and 18 illustrate an embodiment with a scraper 8 pressing on the outer face B of the conveyor belt 1.

[0084] Advantageously, the closure device 5, which serves to fix the first end 1a to the second end 1b, represents an area whose average thickness is greater than or equal to the average thickness of the conveyor belt 1 outside the closure device 5, and disregarding the teeth 4, if any. The increased thickness stiffens the area between the two rods 6 and 7, resulting in a deflection closer to that of the rest of the conveyor belt 1.

[0085] Preferably, the first staples le and the second staples Id are thicker than the rest of the conveyor belt 1, with the exception of the teeth 4, if any. Preferably, the first staples le and the second staples Id have the same average thickness and are arranged to form a first zone whose outer face is flat to facilitate cleaning of the closure device 5. The outer face of the staples may be offset outwards relative to the outer face B of the conveyor belt 1, away from the closure device 5. Preferably, the first staples le project from the inner face A of the conveyor belt 1.One such embodiment is illustrated in Figures 3 and 5, which show staples approximately twice as thick as the rest of the conveyor belt 1. Part of the excess thickness is projecting from the outer face B and part from the inner face A, compared to the conveyor belt 1 outside the closure device 5. In the particular embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 3], the thickness of the staples increases and then decreases until they reach the arc-shaped termination. The staple thickness increases until it reaches one end of the hole, and then decreases until it reaches the arc-shaped termination. This increase and decrease in thickness is observed along the longitudinal direction XX from the point where the staple is attached to the central part of the conveyor belt to the staple termination.

[0086] The first staples are fixedly mounted to the conveyor belt. The increased thickness used to form the first staples allows for stiffening the first end. Advantageously, the same applies to the second staples.

[0087] When the conveyor belt 1 is intended to mesh with a toothed drive wheel, it is advantageous for the first rod 6 and the second rod 7 to be positioned between two consecutive teeth 4. It is advantageous for the separation distance between the first rod 6 and the second rod 7 to be at least twice the repetition pitch P of the teeth 4, preferably at least three or at least four times less. at the repetition pitch P of the teeth 4. Preferably, the closing device 5 is located equidistant between the two nearest teeth 4. Advantageously, the closing device 5 takes the place of one tooth 4. It is preferable that the point equidistant from the two nearest teeth 4 be located in the space between the first rod 6 and the second rod 7 along the ZZ direction.

[0088] The first rod 6 and / or the second rod 7 can extend continuously along the entire length of the through hole in the direction YY. It is advantageous for the first rod 6 and / or the second rod 7 to be flush with each of the side walls of the conveyor belt. It is preferable for the first rod 6 and / or the second rod 7 to protrude slightly from the side walls in the direction YY.

[0089] In an advantageous embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 7], the first rod 6 is formed in two parts, with a first part 6a having an end stop bearing on one side of the conveyor belt 1 and a second part 6b having an end stop bearing on the other side of the conveyor belt 1. The first and second sides are arranged on opposite sides of the conveyor belt 1 along the transverse direction YY, i.e., along the lateral dimension. The use of a first rod 6 in two parts facilitates its installation. The end stop limits the maximum insertion depth of each of the first part 6a and the second part 6b into the first through hole.Preferably, each end stop 6c forms a button defining a continuous annular contact area with a lateral face of one of the first and second clips, i.e., around both ends of the first through hole. Advantageously, the thickness of the end stop 6c is greater than the first diameter by at least 10%.

[0090] In particular, the end of the first part 6a rests against the end of the second part 6b. Advantageously, the end of the first part 6a and the end of the second part 6b meet inside the same first clip. In an advantageous embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 7], the end of the first part and the end of the second part terminate inside the same clip, defining a gap. These embodiments are advantageous because they allow all through holes to be completely sealed and ensure good mechanical strength.

[0091] The same is advantageously true for the second stem 7.

[0092] Preferably, when the first rod 6 and / or the second rod 7 are formed in two parts, with a first part 6a, 7a having an end stop 6c, 7c bearing on a first lateral side of the conveyor belt 1 and a second part 6b, 7b having an end stop 6c, 7c bearing on a second lateral side of the conveyor belt 1. The first part 6a terminates in one of the first staples the and the second part 6b ends in said one of the first staples the.

[0093] The depth of insertion of the first rod 6 into the first set of holes 5a can be adjusted by means of a limit stop 6c, illustrated in [Fig. 21], with a closing device having a single rod. The limit stop 6c has a width that prevents it from entering the first set of holes 5a. It is advantageous for the limit stop 6c to bear continuously in an annular manner against the lateral face. Such a stop configuration makes it possible to reduce or even prevent the introduction of foodstuffs at the outlet of the first set of holes 5a, which opens into the lateral wall of the conveyor belt 1.

[0094] When the first rod 6 is formed in two parts 6a and 6b, each part ending in a stop 6c and each part terminating inside one of the clips, the first rod 6 makes it more difficult for foodstuffs to become stuck along the first set of holes 5a. Advantageously, the same is true for the second rod 7, which is also equipped with a stop.

[0095] It is particularly advantageous to use a first rod 6 and a second rod 7, both of which are made in two parts. It is also advantageous for the first clip le, which receives the first part 6a and the second part 6b of the first rod 6, to be arranged in the first half of the conveyor belt, and for the first clip le or the second clip Id, which receives the first part 7a and the second part 7b of the second rod 6, to be arranged in the second half of the conveyor belt 1. The first half and the second half are separated by a median longitudinal plane that is perpendicular to the transverse direction YY.

[0096] In an advantageous embodiment illustrated in Figures 2, 4, 7, 8, 11 to 17, the first rod 6 is fixed to the second rod 7 by means of a stiffener 10. The stiffener 10 connects the first rod 6 to the second rod 7. The assembly formed by the first rod 6, the second rod 7, and the stiffener 10 preferably defines a monolithic, i.e., non-removable, element. The stiffener 10 has a thickness greater than the average diameter of the first rod 6 and the second rod 7. It is advantageous for the width of the stiffener 10 to be less than or equal to the thickness of the first clips 1 and the second clips 1d. The thickness of the stiffener 10 is measured along the direction ZZ that passes through the outer face B and the inner face A.Even more advantageously, the thickness of the stiffener 10 is less than or equal to the thickness of the conveyor belt over the entire facing distance between the stiffener 10 and the conveyor belt in the direction YY. The stiffener 10 does not protrude from the plane formed by the outer face B of the closing device, nor from the inner face A.

[0097] Preferably, the stiffener 10 is made of the same material as the first rod 6 and the second rod 7, in metal or in any material which has a Young's modulus which is greater than or equal to that of the material forming the closure device and preferably the clips.

[0098] The distance between the first rod 6 and the second rod 7 is less than the repetition pitch of the teeth 4. Preferably, the first rod 6 and the second rod 7 are arranged in a space between two consecutive teeth 4. This configuration is more advantageous than a configuration where the first rod 6 and the second rod 7 are separated by a tooth 4. Advantageously, the repetition pitch P of the teeth 4 is greater than or equal to three times the distance D between the central axes of the first rod 6 and the second rod 7, preferably greater than or equal to five times, and even more preferably greater than or equal to ten times the distance D between the central axes of the first rod 6 and the second rod 7.

[0099] Even more preferably, the minimum distance between a tooth 4 and a rod 6 / 7 is greater than or equal to three times the distance D between the central axes of the first rod 6 and the second rod 7. Advantageously, the assembly formed by the first rod 6 and the second rod 7 is arranged equidistant from two teeth 4 along the direction XX. Preferably, the tooth 4 closest to the first clips le is separated from the first clips le by a distance greater than three times the average distance of the diameter of the first rod 6 and the second rod 7. This facilitates obtaining a closing device behavior closer to that of the rest of the conveyor belt.

[0100] Preferably, the average thickness of the first staples le is equal to the thickness of the second staples Id. More preferably, once the first end 1 is fixed to the second end 2, the fixing area has a flat external surface. Advantageously, the thickness of the first staples le and second staples Id decreases at least from one end of the first hole to the opposite end of the second hole along a longitudinal direction originating from a central portion of the conveyor belt 1 and proceeding towards an end of the first staples le and second staples Id. The thickness is equal to twice the average thickness of the conveyor belt excluding the first and second staples.

[0101] In an advantageous embodiment, the first rod 6 has a blocker 9 which is an elastically deformable zone. The blocker 9 is projecting so as to increase the friction between the first rod 6 and at least one of a first clip 1 or a second clip 1d. Figures 7, 8, 11, 14 and 15 illustrate a first rod 6 and a second rod 7, each of which is provided with a protrusion. The protrusion forms the blocker 9, which locally increases the cross-section of the rod to make it more difficult to insert and especially to remove. It is preferable to form the stopper 9 close to the end stop to facilitate insertion of the rod along almost its entire length. Preferably, when the rod is installed, the stopper 9 is wedged into the clip closest to the end stop or the complete clip closest to the end stop.

[0102] It is particularly advantageous to form a conveyor belt 1 comprising a closing device 5 according to any one of the preceding configurations. It is also advantageous to form a conveyor using a conveyor belt 1 comprising a closing device 5 according to any one of the preceding configurations.

[0103] In addition to the problems related to the mechanical management of the closure device 5 configured to fix the first end 1 to the second end 2, it is preferable that the closure device 5 not be a source of bacterial growth. It is common for material to become trapped in the gaps of the closure device 5, and particularly in the rod 6 / 7 that fixes the first end 1 to the second end 2. This problem is all the more difficult to manage because the length of the rod 6 / 7 must be adapted to the width of the closure device 5. When the rod 6 / 7 is too short, the through hole forms a cavity, the bottom of which is formed by the rod 6 / 7, and which is capable of retaining material. This material, which is difficult to access, will lead to bacterial growth.When the rod 6 / 7 is too long, it makes it more difficult to drive the conveyor belt 1 because the rod 6 / 7 can get caught in equipment located near the conveyor belt 1. There is therefore a need to improve the management of cleaning the closing device 5.

[0104] To achieve this result, it is particularly advantageous to provide a 6 / 7 rod with an end formed by a larger cross-sectional area that creates a continuous annular contact surface around the first or second hole intended to receive the 6 / 7 rod. It is difficult to obtain a 6 / 7 rod with a cross-section perfectly identical to that of the through hole. Installation of the 6 / 7 rod is more difficult because the available space is limited. This spacing allows material to be introduced between the 6 / 7 rod and the edge of the through hole. Therefore, it is particularly advantageous to have a rod end that forms a plug continuously in contact with the side wall of the conveyor belt 1. The plug prevents access to the through hole.

[0105] In one embodiment, the hole in the closing device 5 present in the first end is not a through hole. It is advantageous to have a stop that forms an end stop 6c so that the first rod 6 stops in the immediate vicinity of the bottom of the hole, inside the last clip.

[0106] In another embodiment, at least one hole in the closing device 5 is a through hole, it is then advantageous that the first rod 6 be formed in two parts 6a and 6b and that the two parts 6a and 6b be provided with a plug which has continuous annular contact with the side walls of the conveyor belt 1. A plug is then present at each end of the first rod 6 to prevent the introduction of material between the first rod 6 and the side wall of the hole.

[0107] It is advantageous for the plug to have a thickness that is less than or equal to the thickness of the staples. The thickness is measured along a direction ZZ that intersects the outer face B and the inner face A of the conveyor belt 1. This avoids the formation of a preferred snagging area protruding from the conveyor belt 1, for example, a scraper 8.

[0108] Depending on the embodiment, the closing device 5 may have a single first rod 6 or several rods, preferably the first rod 6 and the second rod 7. When the closing device 5 has several rods, it is advantageous for each of the rods 6 / 7 to have at least one end stop in the form of an annular plug extending continuously around the first hole opening onto the side wall of the closing device 5. Figures 21, 22, 23, and 24 illustrate an embodiment with a single rod. This embodiment is less efficient than the one previously presented in forming a closing device whose mechanical behavior is closer to the mechanical behavior of the rest of the conveyor belt 1. However, such an embodiment provides better resistance to bacterial growth.

[0109] The annular stopper 6c defines a continuous annular contact with the side wall of one of the clips, here a first clip, so as to prevent the insertion and retention of impurities in the through hole or the joint between the stem and the through hole. The aim is to form a stem whose cross-section is as complementary as possible to the cross-section of the holes formed in the clips. However, due to manufacturing variations and wear, a slight gap may form. This gap is known to be a preferred area for bacterial growth because it is difficult to clean.

[0110] It is therefore advantageous to form an annular plug which is in contact with the side wall and which limits or even prevents access to the end of the through hole.

[0111] To limit bacterial growth, it is advantageous to use a rod formed in two parts, each part ending in a ring-shaped cap. Thus, the two ends of the through-hole are plugged by two caps that bear against a clip. As mentioned above, it is preferable for the two ends of the two parts of the rod to meet in the same clip. All through-holes are plugged by one or the other of the two parts of the rod, which limits or even prevents the insertion of impurities into the through-holes of the Staples. As illustrated, the shapes of the staples and the grooves are as complementary as possible to prevent material from getting trapped between the staples. By using simple shapes and one or more removable rods, it becomes easy to open and clean the conveyor belt.

[0112] When the closure device 5 has a first rod 6 and a second rod 7, it is advantageous that the plugs of two adjacent rods belong to the same monolithic element which preferentially forms a stiffener 10 as illustrated in figures 15, 22 and 23. 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.

[0113] When the two inner ends of the first rod 6 are located in the same clip, it is very difficult for material to become inserted between the two parts of the rod. To facilitate the assembly of the rod parts, it is advantageous to create a free space in the through hole of the clip that is less than 50% of the clip dimension in the YY direction, preferably less than 25%. Advantageously, each part of the first rod 6 extends inside the clip for a distance of at least 10%, preferably at least 20%, and more preferably at least 30% of the clip width. The greater the insertion distance of each part of the first rod, the lower the risk of separation. This prevents the formation of a soft point or a zone of flexibility.

[0114] Preferably, when the closure device has only a first rod 6, the clip receiving the end of the first part and the end of the second part is located in a central third along a transverse direction YY.

[0115] In a particular embodiment, the first rod 6 and the second rod 7 are each formed in two parts. It is particularly advantageous for the clip receiving the end of the first part and the end of the second part of the first rod 6 to be different from the clip receiving the end of the first part and the end of the second part of the second rod 7. Differentiating the clips allows for a better distribution of stresses. Preferably, the two clips receiving the ends of the first rod 6 and the second rod 7 should be spaced at least 5%, and preferably at least 10%, of the width of the closure device along the YY direction.In a particular embodiment, the clip receiving the end of the first part and the end of the second part of the first rod 6 is located in a first third along the transverse direction YY and the clip receiving the end of the first part and the end of the second part of the second rod 7 is located in a third third along the transverse direction YY.

[0116] Preferably, the cap is mounted permanently from the rest of the stem.

[0117] In another embodiment, the rod, or each part of the rod, is provided with a locking device 9 configured to lock the rod's position in the transverse direction YY when the rod is subjected to a force in the transverse direction YY that is less than a threshold value. When the rod is inserted into the hole, it is driven in with a force greater than the threshold value. As the conveyor belt 1 moves, the rods are subjected to forces, a portion of which is exerted as a force in the transverse direction YY. The locking device 9 keeps the rod in position when the conveyor belt 1 rotates.

[0118] In a particular embodiment, the closing device defines an indentation on each of its lateral walls along the YY direction. The indentation corresponds to a narrowing of the width of the terminal clip so that the cap is not mounted protruding relative to the rest of the conveyor belt along the YY direction.

Claims

Demands

1. Conveyor belt for foodstuffs comprising: - a first end (the) of a conveyor belt (1) defining first staples (the) with at least a first series of holes (5a) having a first diameter;- a second end (1b) of the conveyor belt (1) defining second clips (Id) with at least a first series of holes (5a) having the first diameter, in a closing position of the conveyor belt (1), the first clips (le) and the second clips (Id) form an alternation and the first series of holes of the first end (la) and of the second end (1b) are aligned to form a first through hole extending over a whole width of the conveyor belt (1), the first through hole opening into a first side wall and a second side wall of the conveyor belt opposite in a transverse direction the first side wall and the second side wall being formed by a side face of one of the first and second clips (le, Id);- a first rod (6) passing through the first series of holes (5a) to secure the first end (le) and the second end (Id), the first rod (6) being detachable with respect to the first end (la) and the second end (1b), the first rod (6) being formed by means of a first part (6a) and a second part (6b) which each have an end stop (6c) delimiting the maximum indentation of each of the first part (6a) and the second part (6b) in the first through hole; characterized in that each end stop (6c) forms a button defining a continuous annular contact area with the first side wall or the second side wall around the two ends of the first through hole; and in which the first part (6a) and the second part (6b) meet inside the same clip of the first clips (le) and the second clips (Id).;

2. Conveyor belt according to claim 1, wherein the first part (6a) defines with the second part (6b) an empty area inside said clip.

3. Conveyor belt according to any one of claims 1 and 2, wherein a thickness of the end stop (6c) is greater than the first diameter by at least 10% and less than an average thickness of the first staple (le) and the second staple (Id).

4. Conveyor belt according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising only a first rod (6) and in which the clip receiving the end of the first part and the end of the second part is located in a central third in a transverse direction (YY).

5. Conveyor belt according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising a first rod (6) and a second rod (7) offset along a longitudinal direction (XX) of the conveyor belt (1), wherein the first rod (6) and the second rod (7) are each formed in two parts, and wherein the clip receiving the end of the first part and the end of the second part of the first rod (6) is in a first third along a transverse direction (YY) is different from the clip receiving the end of the first part and the end of the second part of the second rod (7).

6. Conveyor belt according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising a first rod (6) and a second rod (7) offset along a longitudinal direction (XX) of the conveyor belt (1), wherein the first rod (6) and the second rod (7) are each formed in two parts, and wherein the end stop of the first part of the first rod is monolithic with the end stop of the first part of the second rod (7) to form a stiffener (10) having a thickness greater than or equal to the average diameter of the first rod (6) and the second rod (7) and less than the thickness of the first and second staples at least between the first rod (6) and the second rod (7).

7. A conveyor belt that can be opened according to the preceding claim, wherein the first rod (6) and the second rod (7) are each made in two parts, the two parts of the first rod (6) joining in a clip of the first clips and the second clips disposed in a first half of the conveyor belt (1), and the two parts of the second rod (7) joining in another clip of the first clips and the second clips (7) disposed in a second half of the conveyor belt (1) separated from the first half by a median longitudinal plane.

8. Method of closing an openable conveyor belt comprising: - providing a conveyor belt (1) having a first end (la) defining first staples (le) with at least a first series of holes (5a) having a first diameter and a second end (1b) defining second staples (Id) with at least a first series of holes (5a) having the first diameter, - closing the conveyor belt (1), the first staples (le) and the second staples (Id) forming an alternation and the first series of holes (5a) being aligned to form a first through hole extending over a whole width of the conveyor belt (1);- to introduce a first part (6a) of a first rod (6) passing through the first series of holes (5a) to join the first end (la) and the second end (1b), the first part (6a) of the first rod (6) being detachable from the first end (la) and the second end (1b), the first part (6a) of the first rod (6) ending in a clip of the first clips (le) and the second clips (Id); - to introduce a second part (6b) of the first rod (6) passing through the first series of holes (5a) to join the first end (la) and the second end (1b), the second part (6b) of the first rod (6) being detachable from the first end (la) and the second end (1b), the second part (6b) of the first rod (6) ending in said clip of the first clips (le) and the second clips (Id).

Images