A bracket assembly for securing components of a conveyor

Abstract

A bracket assembly 1 for securing two longitudinally adjacent side walls 2a, 2b of two longitudinally neighbouring modular conveyor units 3a, 3b in a fixed relation is disclosed. Assembly 1 has at lea

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates generally to the field of the construction of conveyors and more specifically to an improved product for assembling and securing components of a conveyor. 5 BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION A conveyor system is a common piece of mechanical handling equipment that moves materials from one location to another. Conveyors are especially useful in applications involving the transport of heavy materials; therefore, conveyors need to be strong to not deflect and break 10 under their own weight and the weight of the conveyed materials. Conveyors may be constructed 'on-site', meaning at the location of intended end use from a number of individual components by securing the components to one another, often by welding. In the field of the construction of conveyors, a prevailing problem is the on-site construction of conveyors in which welding is required to secure the individual components to one another. Welding, as a means of securing conveyor components, presents certain challenges. Firstly, it is a highly skilled and potentially hazardous task requiring specialised training, stringent safety precautions, and specialised equipment, therefore increasing the overall complexity, time, and cost of on-site construction of a conveyor. It can be advantageous to apply a protective coating or paint onto a weld and perhaps also to areas of the components being secured proximal to the 20 weld to resist corrosion of the weld and / or nearby areas. This requirement for post-weld protective coating or painting further extends the overall time and complexity to construct a conveyor on-site and increases the cost of materials. It is an object of the invention to obviate or mitigate the problems outlined above. In particular, it is an object of the invention to reduce or eliminate the need for on-site 25 welding of components to construct a conveyor without sacrificing the resistance of the constructed conveyor to deflection. It is a further object of the invention to provide a simpler and stronger means for constructing a conveyor compared with the prior art. It is a further object of the invention to provide a means for constructing a plurality of 30 modular conveyor units without welding and a means for connecting the modular conveyor units to construct a conveyor without the need for welding. 20 03 25 SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Accordingly, the present invention provides a bracket assembly for securing two longitudinally adjacent side walls of two longitudinally neighbouring modular conveyor units in a fixed relation in use, the bracket assembly comprising at least one bracket member and a 5 mechanical fastening means receiving means for securing the at least one bracket member to both of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls for connecting and securing the two longitudinally adjacent side walls to one another in use, the at least one bracket member securable to both of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls when in use in an area proximal to where the two longitudinally adjacent side walls meet to form a seam, the at least one bracket member 10 comprising a planar portion and at least one reinforcing flange extending along at least one edge portion of the planar portion, the at least one reinforcing flange and / or the planar portion traversing over at least a portion of the seam, wherein the mechanical fastening means receiving means is suitable for receiving a mechanical fastening means for securing the at least one reinforcing flange and / or the planar portion to both of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls in use. Advantageously, having the two longitudinally adjacent side walls securable by a mechanical fastening means receiving means and mechanical fastening means allows the longitudinally adjacent side walls to be delivered unsecured to one another to the site of the intended end use, and then secured using the mechanical fastening means receiving means and 20 mechanical fastening means during the construction of a conveyor. This is not possible with techniques of the prior art, which either rely on on-site welding if a conveyor is to be constructed on site, or else rely on the transportation of longitudinally adjacent side walls already secured to one another, which may be more cumbersome. Ideally, the mechanical fastening means receiving means is configured to secure the at 25 least one reinforcing flange and the planar portion to both of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls in use. Ideally, both the planar portion and the at least one reinforcing flange traverse over at least a portion of the seam in use. Ideally, the at least one reinforcing flange comprises at least one lower flange securable to 30 a lower wall flange of each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls. 20 03 25 an upper wall flange of each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls. Ideally, the bracket assembly comprises a plurality of bracket members, one of the plurality of bracket members being a lower bracket member securable in use to a lower portion of both longitudinally adjacent side walls. 5 Ideally, the bracket assembly comprises a plurality of bracket members, one of the plurality of bracket members being an upper bracket member securable in use to an upper portion of both longitudinally adjacent side walls. Ideally, the bracket assembly comprises two bracket members, a first bracket member being the lower bracket member securable in use to the lower portion of both longitudinally 10 adjacent side walls. Ideally, the bracket assembly comprises two bracket members, a first bracket member being the upper bracket member securable in use to the upper portion of both longitudinally adjacent side walls. Ideally, the upper and lower bracket members are identically formed bracket members. Advantageously, identically formed bracket members can be produced from a single design and used interchangeably, reducing costs and complexity of manufacturing, transport, storage and installation. Ideally, the at least one reinforcing flange of the lower bracket member comprises at least one lower flange securable to a lower wall flange of each of the two longitudinally adjacent side 20 walls. Ideally, the at least one reinforcing flange of the upper bracket member comprises at least one upper flange securable to an upper wall flange of each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls. Ideally, the at least one flange and the planar portion are formed from a unitary body. 25 Advantageously, a unitary body eliminates joints holding the at least one bracket member together, which are common points of failure for fabricated brackets. Further advantageously, forming the at least one bracket member from one unitary body reduces the number of components, therefore improving the ease of assembly in use. Ideally, the at least one bracket member is formed from a metal. 30 Ideally, the at least one bracket member is formed from a metal alloy. 20 03 25 unitary body connecting the at least one reinforcing flange and the planar portion, the at least one reinforcing flange being projected out of the plane of the planar portion by the bend. Advantageously, the at least one reinforcing flange resists bowing and deflection of a conveyor in which the bracket assembly is incorporated. 5 Ideally, the at least one reinforcing flange of the at least one bracket member is projected out of the plane of the planar portion of the at least one bracket member at a 0 to 180 degree angle by the bend. Ideally, the at least one reinforcing flange of the at least one bracket member is projected out of the plane of the planar portion of the at least one bracket member at a 30 to 150 degree 10 angle by the bend. Ideally, the at least one reinforcing flange of the at least one bracket member is projected out of the plane of the planar portion of the at least one bracket member at a 60 to 120 degree angle by the bend. Ideally, the at least one reinforcing flange of the at least one bracket member is projected out of the plane of the planar portion of the at least one bracket member at a 80 to 100 degree angle by the bend. Most ideally, the at least one reinforcing flange of the at least one bracket member is projected out of the plane of the planar portion of the at least one bracket member at a 90 degree angle by the bend. 20 Ideally, the bracket assembly comprises at least one bracket member being T shaped in front elevation view, the T shape being formed by the planar portion comprising a main central portion and two arms extending therefrom at a first end of the main central portion in the same plane as the main central portion, wherein the two arms and the main central portion define a straight edge along a first end of the planar portion along which the bend continuously extends, 25 wherein in use the arms and the first end of the main central portion from which the arms extend are positioned proximal to the lower or upper edge of both of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls. Advantageously, this ensures adequate fastening along the wall flanges of the two longitudinally adjacent walls over the seam in use, and in the area proximal to the wall flanges, whilst at the same time removing redundant material elsewhere. 30 Ideally, the bracket assembly comprises a plurality of bracket members being T shaped in front elevation view, wherein in use the arms and the first end of the main central portion from 20 03 25 which the arms extend of a first of the plurality of bracket members being T shaped in front elevation view are positioned proximal to the lower edge of both of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls, and wherein in use the arms and the first end of the main central portion from which the arms extend of a second of the plurality of bracket members being T shaped in front 5 elevation view are positioned proximal to the upper edge of both of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls. Ideally, the bracket assembly comprises two bracket members being T shaped in front elevation view, wherein in use the arms and the first end of the main central portion from which the arms extend of a first of the two bracket members being T shaped in front elevation view are 10 positioned proximal to the lower edge of both of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls, and wherein in use the arms and the first end of the main central portion from which the arms extend of a second of the two bracket members being 'T shaped in front elevation view are positioned proximal to the upper edge of both of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls. Ideally, the main central portion and the at least one reinforcing flange extends over at least a portion of the seam. Ideally, the mechanical fastening means receiving means is configured to secure the main central portion and the at least one reinforcing flange to both longitudinally adjacent side walls. Ideally, the two arms are securable to a distinct one of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls. 20 Ideally, the at least one reinforcing flange is a rectangular reinforcing flange, extending along its long edge from the planar portion at the bend. Ideally, the mechanical fastening means comprises at least one mechanical fastener. Ideally, the mechanical fastening means comprises a plurality of mechanical fasteners. Ideally, the mechanical fastening means comprises a plurality of types of mechanical 25 fastener. Ideally, the mechanical fastening means comprises one or more of bolts, screws, nuts and washers, rivets. Ideally, the mechanical fastening means receiving means comprises a mechanical fastening redundancy means. 30 Ideally, the mechanical fastening redundancy means comprises one or more apertures. 20 03 25 the pattern of apertures. Ideally, the mechanical fastening means receiving means comprises a predetermined pattern of apertures distributed over the area of the at least one bracket member and configured to receive the mechanical fastening means. Advantageously, apertures provide a convenient 5 means to fasten the at least one bracket member to each longitudinally adjacent side wall in use by receiving therein the at least one mechanical fastening means and obviating the need for welding when securing the two longitudinally adjacent side walls to one another. Further advantageously, a predetermined pattern can be pre-formed off-site, that is, away from the site of intended end use, for example in a specialised metalworking facility. 10 Ideally, the predetermined pattern comprises a pair of apertures spaced apart along part of the length of the at least one reinforcing flange, wherein the pair of apertures are alignable with an aperture in a wall flange of each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls such that the at least one re inforcing flange of the bracket member is securable to the wall flange of each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls by the pair of apertures, the aperture in the wall flange of each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls, and the mechanical fastening means. Ideally, the predetermined pattern comprises a pair of apertures spaced apart on the planar portion of the at least one bracket member along part of the length of the area proximal with the length of the at least one bend between the at least one reinforcing flange and the planar portion of the at least one bracket member, wherein the pair of apertures are alignable with an 20 aperture in a planar portion of each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls such that the planar portion of the at least one bracket member is securable to the planar portion of each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls by means of the pair of apertures, the aperture in the planar portion of each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls, and the mechanical fastening means. Ideally, the predetermined pattern comprises a group of four apertures uniformly spaced 25 along the entire length of the at least one reinforcing flange, wherein the group of four apertures are alignable with a pair of apertures a wall flange of each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls such that the at least one reinforcing flange of the bracket member is securable to the wall flange of each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls by the group of four apertures, the pair of apertures in the wall flange of each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls, and the 30 mechanical fastening means. 20 03 25 along the planar portion of the at least one bracket member along the entire length of the area proximal with the length of the at least one bend between the at least one reinforcing flange and the planar portion of the at least one bracket member, wherein the group of four apertures are alignable with a pair of apertures in a planar portion of each of the two longitudinally adjacent 5 side walls such that the planar portion of the at least one bracket member is securable to the planar portion of each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls by means of the group of four apertures, the pair of apertures in the planar portion of each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls, and the mechanical fastening means. Ideally, the predetermined pattern of apertures comprises a group of four apertures 10 arranged in a rectangular pattern disposed in the planar portion of the at least one bracket member, wherein the group of four apertures are alignable with a pair of apertures in a planar portion of each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls such that the planar portion of the at least one bracket member is securable to the planar portion of each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls by means of the group of four apertures, the pair of apertures in the planar portion of each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls, and the mechanical fastening means. Ideally, the predetermined pattern of apertures comprises a pair of two apertures arranged within the group of four apertures arranged in a rectangular pattern, wherein the pair of apertures are alignable with an aperture in a planar portion of each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls such that the planar portion of the at least one bracket member is securable to 20 the planar portion of each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls by means of the pair of apertures, the aperture in the planar portion of each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls, and the mechanical fastening means. Ideally, the predetermined pattern of apertures forms a symmetric pattern of apertures. Ideally, the predetermined pattern of apertures is formed centrally on the at least one 25 bracket member. Ideally, the at least one bracket member and / or mechanical fastening means is suitable for at least partially coating with a corrosion-resistant substance. Ideally, the at least one bracket member and / or mechanical fastening means comprises a corrosion-resistant coating. Advantageously, this prolongs the life of the brackets and reduces the 30 need for replacement. According to invention there is also provided two longitudinally adjacent side walls of two 20 03 25 longitudinally neighbouring modular conveyor units being secured in a fixed relation to one another by a bracket assembly, the bracket assembly comprising at least one bracket member and a mechanical fastening means receiving means, each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls comprising a mechanical fastening means receiving means, wherein the two longitudinally 5 adjacent side walls are secured to one another by the at least one bracket member being secured to each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls, wherein the at least one bracket member is secured to each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls by a mechanical fastening means received in the mechanical fastening means receiving means of the bracket assembly and the mechanical fastening means receiving means of each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls, 10 the at least one bracket member secured to both of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls in an area proximal to where the two longitudinally adjacent side walls meet to form a seam, the at least one bracket member traversing over at least a portion of the seam. Ideally, the two longitudinally adjacent side walls are secured in a fixed relation to one another by a bracket assembly as described in the preceding statements of invention, wherein each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls comprise a planar portion and at least one wall flange extending along at least one edge portion of the planar portion, wherein the planar portion of the at least one bracket member is received onto the planar portion of both longitudinally adjacent side walls and the at least one reinforcing flange of the at least one bracket member is received on the least one wall flange of both longitudinally adjacent side walls. 20 Ideally, each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls are formed from a unitary body. Ideally, each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls comprise a bend formed along the portion of each longitudinally adjacent side wall connecting the at least one wall flange and the planar portion, the at least one wall flange being projected out of the plane of the planar portion by the bend. Advantageously, the wall flange projecting out of the plane of the planar 25 portion increases the strength to the longitudinally adjacent side walls and provides a projecting surface to receive in a flush manner the at least one reinforcing flange of the at least one bracket member which similarly projects from its own planar portion. Ideally, the bend of each longitudinally adjacent side wall projects the at least one wall flange of each longitudinally adjacent side wall such that the angle between the at least one wall 30 flange and an outer surface of the planar portion of each longitudinally adjacent side wall is less than 180 degrees. Likewise, the at least one wall flange of each longitudinally adjacent side wall 20 03 25 projects such that the angle between the at least one wall flange and an inner surface of the planar portion of each longitudinally adjacent side wall is greater than 180 degrees. Ideally, the at least one wall flange of each longitudinally adjacent side wall is projected out of the plane of the planar portion of each longitudinally adjacent side wall at a 30 to 150 degree 5 angle by the bend. Ideally, the at least one wall flange of each longitudinally adjacent side wall is projected out of the plane of the planar portion of each longitudinally adjacent side wall at a 60 to 120 degree angle by the bend. Ideally, the at least one wall flange of each longitudinally adjacent side wall is projected out 10 of the plane of the planar portion of each longitudinally adjacent side wall at a 80 to 100 degree angle by the bend. Most ideally, the at least one wall flange of each longitudinally adjacent side wall is projected out of the plane of the planar portion of each longitudinally adjacent side wall at a 90 degree angle by the bend. Ideally, the at least one reinforcing flange of the at least one bracket member is secured by the mechanical fastening means receiving means and the mechanical fastening means to the at least one wall flange of each longitudinally adjacent side wall. Ideally, the at least one planar portion of the at least one bracket member is secured by the mechanical fastening means receiving and the mechanical fastening means to the planar 20 portion of each longitudinally adjacent side wall. Ideally, each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls comprise at least one lower wall flange extending from a lower edge portion of the planar portion of each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls, each of the at least one lower wall flange having received thereon the lower flange of the lower bracket member. 25 Ideally, each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls comprise at least one upper wall flange extending from an upper edge portion of the planar portion of each longitudinally adjacent side wall, each of the at least one upper wall flange having received thereon the upper flange of the upper bracket member. Ideally, the at least one lower wall flange and the at least one upper wall flange of each 30 longitudinally adjacent side wall are projected out of the plane of the planar portion of each longitudinally adjacent side wall such that the angles between the lower and upper wall flange and 20 03 25 an outer surface of the planar portion of each longitudinally adjacent side wall are less than 180 degrees. Ideally, the at least one lower wall flange and the at least one upper wall flange of each longitudinally adjacent side wall are projected out of the plane of the planar portion of each 5 longitudinally adjacent side wall such that the angles between the lower and upper wall flange and an outer surface of the planar portion of each longitudinally adjacent side wall are less than 90 degrees. Ideally, the at least one wall flange is rectangular and planar with a width approximately equal to the width of the at least one reinforcing flange of the at least one bracket member which 10 is received thereon. Ideally, each longitudinally adjacent side wall comprises at least one lip extending from the at least one wall flange. Ideally, each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls comprise a bend formed along a portion of each longitudinally adjacent side wall connecting the at least one lip and the at least one wall flange, the at least one lip being projected out of the plane of the at least one wall flange by the bend. Advantageously, the lip projecting out of the plane of the planar portion increases the strength to the longitudinally adjacent side walls and provides a projecting surface which helps retain the at least one bracket member proximal to the planar portion of each longitudinally adjacent side wall by providing a surface that abuts the edge of the at least one reinforcing flange. 20 Ideally, the bend formed along the portion of each longitudinally adjacent side wall connecting the at least one lip and the at least one wall flange projects the at least one lip in a direction towards the centre of the planar portion of each longitudinally adjacent side wall. Ideally, the at least one lip of each longitudinally adjacent side wall is projected out of the plane of the at least one wall flange at a 30 to 150 degree angle by the bend. 25 Ideally, the at least one lip of each longitudinally adjacent side wall is projected out of the plane of the at least one wall flange at a 60 to 120 degree angle by the bend. Ideally, the at least one lip of each longitudinally adjacent side wall is projected out of the plane of the at least one wall flange at a 80 to 100 degree angle by the bend. Most ideally, the at least one lip of each longitudinally adjacent side wall is projected out of 30 the plane of the at least one wall flange at a 90 degree angle by the bend. Ideally, each longitudinally adjacent side wall comprises at least one upper lip extending 20 03 25 from the at least one upper wall flange. Ideally, each longitudinally adjacent side wall comprises at least one lower lip extending from the at least one lower wall flange. Ideally, each of the longitudinally adjacent side walls are formed from a metal. 5 Ideally, each of the longitudinally adjacent side walls are formed from a metal alloy. Ideally, the lower bracket member is symmetrically disposed on the two longitudinally adjacent side walls relative to the upper bracket member. Ideally, the lower and upper bracket members are identically formed. Ideally, the mechanical fastening means receiving means of each of the two 10 longitudinally adjacent side walls comprises a predetermined pattern of apertures. Ideally, the predetermined pattern of apertures of each of the mechanical fastening means receiving means of each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls comprises a group of apertures aligned with the apertures of the mechanical fastening means receiving means of the at least one bracket member. Advantageously, the pattern of apertures of each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls and the apertures of the at least one bracket member provide a means for aligning and securing the at least one bracket member to each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls, and therefore a means for aligning and securing the two longitudinally adjacent side walls to one another. Ideally, the mechanical fastening means are received into the apertures of the mechanical 20 fastening means receiving means of the upper bracket member in a different pattern to the mechanical fastening means receiving means of the lower bracket member. Ideally, the mechanical fastening means receiving means of each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls is alignable with a mechanical fastening means receiving means in one or more additional structural elements of a conveyor such that the one or more additional structural 25 elements of the conveyor are securable to one of or both of the two longitudinal adjacent side walls by means of the mechanical fastening means receiving means of one of or both of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls, the mechanical fastening means receiving means in the one or more additional structural elements of the conveyor, a mechanical fastening means and optionally the mechanical fastening means receiving means of the bracket assembly. Advantageously, other 30 structural elements are important to maintain the rigidity of the conveyor and / or provide other essential or advantageous functions. 20 03 25 Ideally, the mechanical fastening means receiving means of the one or more additional structural elements of the conveyor comprises at least one aperture disposed in each of the one or more additional structural elements of the conveyor. Ideally, the one or more additional structural elements of the conveyor comprises a 5 plurality of additional structural elements. Ideally, the one or more additional structural elements of the conveyor comprises a plurality of types of additional structural element. Ideally, the one or more additional structural elements of the conveyor comprises one or more of: at least one roller mounting plate, at least one cross member and at least one conveyor 10 belt guide means. Ideally, the one or more additional structural elements of the conveyor comprises a plurality of uniformly spaced roller mounting plates each secured onto one of the longitudinally adjacent side walls. Advantageously, the roller mounting plates support the attachment of rollers to the conveyor, and multiple rollers are needed to convey material or objects over a useful distance. Ideally, the at least one roller mounting plate is secured onto an outer surface of the planar portion of one of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls. Advantageously, when the conveyor is assembled, having the plurality of roller mounting plates on the outer surface of the planar portion of the longitudinally adjacent side walls makes them easily accessible should the rollers 20 require replacement. Ideally, the one or more additional structural elements of the conveyor comprises a plurality of cross members each secured onto one of the longitudinally adjacent side walls. Advantageously, multiple cross members more effectively maintain the rigidity of the conveyor. Ideally, the belt guide means comprises a slanted belt closure plate extending along the 25 length of an inner surface of the planar portion of one of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls. Advantageously, in use the slanted belt closure plate biases a conveyor belt and / or conveyed objects or material towards the centre of the conveyor and away from stationary elements of the conveyor where the belt or the conveyed objects or material may become caught or snagged. 30 Ideally, each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls comprise at least one hole, wherein the at least one hole is suitable for having a roller passed therethrough for installation of 20 03 25 said roller using one of the at least one roller mounting plate and the mechanical fastening means. Ideally, each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls comprise a plurality of uniformly spaced holes each for passing therethrough a roller for installation of said roller. According to the invention there is also provided an assembly for aiding installation and 5 removal of a roller from a conveyor unit, the assembly comprising at least one roller mounting plate and a side wall of a conveyor unit, the side wall of the conveyor unit comprising at least one hole for passing at least one roller therethrough for securing the roller to the side wall of the conveyor unit using the roller mounting plate and a mechanical fastening means, the at least one roller mounting plate and the side wall of the conveyor unit comprising a roller mounting and 10 dismounting support receiving means. Ideally, the roller mounting and dismounting support receiving means comprises a guiding and supporting means arranged to guide and support a roller mounting and dismounting support means in use. Ideally, the guiding and supporting means of the roller mounting and dismounting support receiving means comprises a supporting edge disposed at a lower periphery of the at least one hole for passing at least one roller therethrough. Ideally, the supporting edge is a V shaped supporting edge. Ideally, the guiding and supporting means of the roller mounting and dismounting support receiving means comprises a guide means comprising a gap between the at least one roller 20 mounting plate and the side wall of the conveyor unit. Advantageously, this allows the roller mounting and dismounting support means to be inserted whilst the mounting plate and roller are attached to the side wall of the conveyor unit. Ideally, the guide means of the guiding and supporting means comprises the V shaped supporting edge and / or a V shaped projection of the at least one roller mounting plate spaced 25 apart a short distance defining the gap. Ideally, the 'V' shaped supporting edge of the side wall and 'V' shaped projection of the at least one roller mounting plate are arranged to maintain a separation when the roller mounting plate is secured to the side wall in use such that a 'V' shaped gap is formed between the 'V' shaped supporting edge of the side wall and V shaped projection of the at least one roller 30 mounting plate. Ideally, the roller mounting and dismounting support means comprises a rolled steel angle 20 03 25 extendable between a V shaped aperture in a first side wall of the conveyor unit to a V shaped aperture in a second, opposite, side wall of the same longitudinally neighbouring conveyor unit, and supportable by a 'V' shaped supporting edge of the first and second side walls. According to the invention there is also provided a deformable sheet for forming a cross 5 member securable to two parallel surface portions of two side walls of a conveyor unit for securing the two side walls of the conveyor unit to one another. Ideally, the deformable sheet comprises a plurality of bendable portions, wherein the deformable sheet is suitable for being bent / folded along a plurality of lines separating the plurality of bendable portions and the remainder of the sheet for forming the cross member. 10 Ideally, the deformable sheet is pre-formed into predetermined dimensions suitable for forming a cross member of predetermined dimensions. Ideally, the deformable sheet is pre-formed in predetermined dimensions configured to form a cross member of predetermined dimensions by comprising predetermined bend allowances in the regions of the bendable portions. Ideally, the deformable sheet is suitable for being bent / folded along each of the plurality of line to form a 90 degree bend or fold thereacross. Ideally, the deformable sheet is configured to form two overlaps, each one of the two overlaps comprising two overlapping bendable portions, wherein at least one of the two overlapping bendable portions of each overlap comprises an adjusted bend allowance, wherein a 20 first of the two overlaps is securable to a first of the two parallel surface portions of the two side walls and a second of the two overlaps is securable to a second of the two parallel surface portions of the two side walls. Ideally, the adjusted bend allowance comprises a decreased or zero bend allowance, wherein the decreased or zero bend allowance is configured so that an outer surface of the first of 25 the two overlapping bendable portions is bendable to abut, and be securable to an inner surface of a second of the two overlapping bendable portions. Ideally, an outer surface of the second overlapping bendable portion is configured to sit flush against, and be securable to, one of the planar surface portions. Ideally, the deformable sheet comprises a mechanical fastening means receiving means for 30 receiving a mechanical fastening means. Ideally, the mechanical fastening means receiving means of the deformable sheet 20 03 25 comprises a plurality of apertures in a predetermined pattern. Ideally, the pattern is configured in such a way that an aperture in each of the first two overlapping bendable portions are alignable and an aperture in each of the second two overlapping bendable portions are alignable. 5 Ideally, the deformable sheet is configured to comprise, when formed into the cross member, two triangular reinforcing sections spanning along at least part of the length of the cross member, wherein the two overlapping bendable portions are securable to distinct planar surface portions of the two side walls proximal to a first vertex of each of the triangular reinforcing sections, and wherein two distinct bendable portions are securable longitudinally distal from the 10 two overlapping bendable portion proximal to a second vertex of each of the triangular reinforcing sections. Ideally, the deformable sheet is configured to comprise a transverse reinforcing flange. Ideally, the deformable sheet comprises a bend relief disposed at both ends of each of the plurality of lines separating the plurality of bendable / foldable portions and the remainder of the sheet for forming the cross member. Ideally, the deformable sheet is formed from a metal or metal alloy. Ideally, the deformable sheet is formed from a metal alloy. Ideally, the deformable sheet forms a beam when an aperture in a first of the two overlapping bendable portions of each of the two overlaps is aligned with an aperture in a second 20 of the two overlapping bendable portions of each of the two overlaps and when the aligned apertures are coupled with mechanical fastening means. According to the invention there is also provided a conveyor unit comprising two side walls secured to one another by at least one cross member and a mechanical fastening means such that an inner surface of each longitudinally adjacent side wall faces one another forming a region for 25 conveying objects and / or materials and the outer surface faces away from one another; at least one roller extending between and through each of the two sets of side walls by means of at least one hole in each set of longitudinally adjacent side walls; and at least one set of two roller mounting plates, the at least two roller mounting plates attached separately to each end of the at least one roller and also separately to the outer surface of each of the two side walls. 30 Advantageously, the at least one wall flange is projected in a direction away from the region for conveying objects and / or materials, so that the objects and / or materials will not 20 03 25 become caught on, or obstructed by, the at least one wall flange. Further advantageously, the at least two roller mounting plates being attached to the outer surfaces allows ease of access should a roller require replacing without the user replacing the roller having to access or interfere with the space between the inner surfaces which in use often contains either materials and / or objects 5 for conveying and / or additional elements of the conveyor such as external supporting elements and / or electronics. Ideally, the at least one cross beam extends perpendicularly from a surface portion of the inner surface of each of the side walls. Ideally, the at least one cross member extends the entire distance between inner surfaces 10 of the side walls. Ideally, the at least one roller extends perpendicularly from a surface portion of the inner surface of each of the side walls. Ideally, each of the at least one set of two roller mounting plates is a roller mounting plate according to the preceding statements of invention. Ideally, each of the at least one cross member is a cross member according to the preceding statements of invention. Ideally, the two side walls each comprise a lifting means receiving means for receiving components of a lifting means. Ideally, the lifting means receiving means is attached to each of the side walls proximal to 20 ends of the side walls. Ideally, the lifting means receiving means comprises a plurality of lifting lugs. Ideally, the lifting means comprises a plurality of wire ropes and a crane. Ideally, the at least one cross member comprises two surfaces sitting flush against the two planar surface portions of each of the two side walls, each of the two flush sitting surfaces secured 25 by a mechanical fastening means to the side walls. According to the invention, there is also provided a constructed conveyor structure comprising a plurality of conveyor units secured to one another by a plurality of the bracket assemblies according to the preceding statements of invention. Ideally, the length of the constructed conveyor is at least 16 meters. 20^03 25 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: - Figure 1 is a perspective view of two bracket assemblies according to the invention 5 fastened to either side of a modular conveyor unit. Figure 2 is an enlarged perspective view of two bracket assemblies according to the present invention fastened to either side of a modular conveyor unit as shown in figure 1 but in a truncated view. Figure 3 is a cropped perspective view of two modular conveyor units each being held 10 together by one cross member according to the invention and secured to one another by two bracket assemblies according to the invention. Figure 4 is a cropped perspective view of two modular conveyor units each being held together by at least one cross member according to the invention and secured to one another by two bracket assemblies according to the invention. Figure 5 is a plan view of a deformable sheet for forming a cross member according to the invention. Figure 6 is a plan view of a cross member formed from the deformable sheet shown in figure 5. Figure 7 is a side elevation view of a cross member shown in figure 6 formed from the 20 deformable sheet shown in figure 5. Figure 8 is a perspective view of a cross member shown in figures 6 and 7 formed from the deformable sheet shown in figure 5. DETAILED DESCTIPTION Referring to the drawings generally, figure 1 illustrates in a perspective view two bracket 25 assemblies, each one according to the invention, each bracket assembly indicated generally by reference numeral 1, each one shown secured onto a side wall 2a. Figure 2 illustrates in an enlarged perspective view two bracket assemblies of the type shown in figure 1, each bracket assembly indicated generally by reference numeral 1, each one shown secured onto a single longitudinally adjacent side wall 2a in a truncated view. When deployed, the bracket assembly 1 is 20 03 25 secured onto two longitudinally adjacent side walls (shown in figures 3 and 4 as 2a and 2b) of two longitudinally neighbouring modular conveyor units (shown in figures 3 and 4 as 3a and 3b). Only one modular conveyor unit 3 is shown in figure 1, and a single modular conveyor unit 3 is shown in figure 2 but in a truncated view. Two side walls 2a or 2b are joined by at least one cross beam 4 to 5 form a conveyor unit 3a (or 3b shown in figures 3 and 4). The exemplary bracket assembly 1 comprises two brackets 5, although the person skilled in the field of the invention will appreciate that the invention is workable in a similar manner with one bracket member or more than two bracket members. The exemplary bracket assembly 1 comprises two identically formed brackets 5, this being particularly advantageous because 10 identically formed brackets 5 can be produced according from a single design and used interchangeably, reducing costs and complexity of manufacturing, transport, storage and installation. Therefore, the structure of the bracket assembly 1 can be described through the description of the structure of just one of the two brackets 5. The brackets 5 comprise a planar portion 6 and a reinforcing flange 7, extending along an edge portion of the planar portion. The brackets 5 comprise a fastening means being a symmetric and predetermined pattern of apertures distributed over the area of the brackets 5, one of which is indicated at 8. The apertures are configured by their shape and size to each receive, when installed, a mechanical fastener, one of which is indicated at 9. Since the brackets 5 of the bracket assembly 1 are depicted in a state secured to one longitudinally adjacent side wall in the figures 1 20 and 2, some of the apertures have mechanical fasteners received therethrough and are therefore obscured by the mechanical fasteners. The predetermined pattern of apertures comprises a first group of four apertures uniformly spaced along the entire length of the reinforcing flange 7. The predetermined pattern of apertures comprises a second group of four apertures uniformly spaced along the planar portion 25 6, more particularly along the entire length of the area proximal with the length of the connecting portion between the reinforcing flange 7 and the planar portion 6. The predetermined pattern of apertures comprises a third group of four apertures arranged in a rectangular pattern on the planar portion 6, the four apertures disposed at the four vertices of the rectangular pattern. The predetermined pattern of apertures comprises a fourth group of two apertures arranged within 30 the third group on the planar portion 6. The predetermined pattern of apertures is formed 20 03 25 centrally on the brackets 5. The flange 7 and planar portion 6 of the brackets 5 are formed from a single body of metal forming a bend along the portion of the metal body connecting the reinforcing flange 7 and the planar portion 6. The metal may be steel, but it will be appreciated that other alloys and / or pure 5 metals would be suitable materials for the construction of the brackets 3. The reinforcing flange 7 and planar portion 6 are secured at the bend at a 90 degree angle to one another such that the reinforcing flange 7 is projected out of the plane of the planar portion 6 at an angle of 90 degrees by the bend. The brackets 5 are T shaped in front elevation view, the T shape being formed by the 10 planar portion 6 comprising a main central rectangular portion and two arms extending therefrom at one end of the main central portion, wherein the arms extend from the main central portion in the same plane as the main central portion. The two arms and the main central portion define a straight edge along one end of the planar portion 6 along which the bend continuously extends. The reinforcing flange 7 is a rectangular reinforcing flange 7, extending along its long edge from the planar portion 6 at the bend. The brackets 5 may be coated with an anti-corrosion material (not shown) and / or anti-corrosion paint (also not shown). The bracket assembly 1 is intended to be installed onto two longitudinally adjacent side walls 2a and 2b (figures 3 and 4), in order to secure the two longitudinally adjacent side walls to one another. The two longitudinally adjacent side walls 2a, 2b are identically formed. This offers 20 similar advantages to identically forming the brackets 5. Therefore, the structure of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls 2a, 2b can be described with reference to the structure of just one of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls 2a. The longitudinally adjacent side walls 2a comprise a planar portion 10 and two rectangular wall flanges extending from the planar portion 10. 25 The longitudinally adjacent side walls 2a comprise a lower wall flange extending from a lower edge portion of the planar portion 10, and an upper wall flange extending in the same direction as the lower wall flange from an upper edge portion of the planar portion 10, each of the wall flanges 11 having a width approximately equal to the width of the reinforcing flange 7 of the brackets. 30 The longitudinally adjacent side walls 2a comprise two bends formed along the portion of 20 03 25 the metal body connecting the wall flanges 11 and the planar portion 10, the wall flanges 11 being projected out of the plane of the planar portion 10 by the bend at a 90 degree angle such that the angle between the wall flanges 11 and an outer surface 10 of the planar portion is 90 degrees. Likewise, the wall flanges 11 project in a direction away from an inner surface 12 of each planar 5 portion 10 of the longitudinally adjacent side walls 2a such that the angle between the wall flanges 11 and the inner surface 12 is 270 degrees. The inner surface 12 then defines a suitable surface onto which additional structural elements 4 and 14 of the conveyor are disposed in order to fulfil other functions of the constructed conveyor. Likewise, the outer surface 10 defines a suitable surface onto which a plurality of roller mounting plates 15 are disposed. Furthermore, the wall 10 flanges 11 projecting away from the inner surface 12 ensures that the conveyed objects or material do not become caught on, or obstructed by, the wall flanges 11. The longitudinally adjacent side walls 2a comprise two lips 16, each separately extending from a distinct one of the wall flanges 11 and projected out of the plane of said wall flanges 11 at a 90 degree angle in a direction towards the centre of the planar portion 10 of each longitudinally adjacent side wall 2a. One of the two lips 16 is an upper lip extending from the upper wall flange, and the other a lower lip extending from the lower wall flange. Each longitudinally adjacent side wall 2a is formed from a single body of metal manipulated into bends at the wall flanges 11 and the lips 16, forming an additional two bends along the portion of the metal body connecting the at least one lip 16 and the wall flange 11, the at least one lip 16 being projected out of the plane of 20 the at least one wall flange 11 by the bend. The longitudinally adjacent side walls 2a comprise a pattern of apertures, one of which being indicated at 17 in figure 2, comprising a first group of apertures arranged in a pattern complimentary of the apertures of the brackets 5. The pattern of apertures comprises one or more additional groups of apertures complimentary of a pattern of apertures of additional 25 structural elements of the modular conveyor 4,14 and 15. The one or more additional groups of apertures comprises a second group of pairs being uniformly spaced along the length of the planar portion 10 of the longitudinally adjacent side walls 2a complimentary of apertures of a plurality of roller mounting plates 15. The roller mounting plates 15 may be disposed on the outer surface 10 of the planar portion 10 of the longitudinally adjacent side walls 2a to provide an arrangement for 30 securing rollers 18 to the longitudinally adjacent side walls 2a. The one or more additional groups of apertures comprises a third group of a plurality of pairs of apertures, said pairs being uniformly 20 03 25 spaced along the length of the planar portion 10 of the longitudinally adjacent side walls 2a, wherein each pair of apertures of the third group is complimentary of a pair of apertures in a separate one of a plurality of cross beams 5. The one or more additional groups of apertures comprises a fourth group of apertures complimentary of apertures of a slanted belt closure plate 5 14 extending along the length of the inner surface 12 of the planar portion 10 of the longitudinally adjacent side walls 2a. The one or more additional groups of apertures comprises a fifth group of apertures complimentary of apertures of a skirt clamp plate 13 extending along the length of the inner surface 12 of the planar portion 10 of the longitudinally adjacent side walls 2a for securing thereon a conveyor skirt (not shown). Apertures of the additional groups of apertures may be the 10 same apertures as the apertures of the first group of apertures, as is the case with the apertures complimentary of the apertures in the slanted guide plate 14, skirt clamp plate 13, and cross beams 4, such that the brackets 5 and one of the additional structural elements 4,13,14 and 15 can be secured to the longitudinally adjacent side walls 2a by means of at least one common aperture. The longitudinally adjacent side walls 2a comprise a plurality of uniformly spaced holes each for passing therethrough a roller 18 for installation of said roller 18 onto the longitudinally adjacent side walls 2a using one of the plurality of roller mounting plates 15 and a pair of mechanical fasteners 9. When the bracket assembly 1 is used, the brackets 5 of the bracket assembly 1 are each 20 secured to both of two longitudinally adjacent side walls 2a, 2b in order to secure the two longitudinally adjacent side walls to one another. The brackets 5 are secured to each longitudinally adjacent side wall 2a, 2b by a plurality of mechanical fasteners 9 inserted through the apertures 8 in the brackets 5 and the apertures 17 in the longitudinally adjacent side walls 2a, 2b. More particularly, the reinforcing flanges 7 of the brackets 5 are received onto and secured by a plurality 25 of mechanical fasteners 9 to the wall flanges 11 of each longitudinally adjacent side wall 2a, 2b via the apertures 8,17 in each, and the planar portions 6 of the bracket members are received onto and secured by a plurality of mechanical fasteners 9 to the planar portion 10 of each longitudinally adjacent side wall 2a, 2b via the apertures 8,17 in each. The mechanical fasteners 9 may comprise a plurality of types of mechanical fasteners. Exemplary mechanical fasteners are bolts, screws, 30 rivets, nuts and washers, and any other mechanical fasteners that will be known to the person 20 03 25 skilled in the field of the invention. The mechanical fasteners 9 are applied through the plurality of apertures 8 in the brackets 5 and apertures 17 in the two longitudinally adjacent side walls 2a, 2b to secure the brackets 5 to the longitudinally adjacent side walls 2a, 2b. The mechanical fasteners 9 are not needed in all the apertures of the pattern of apertures of the brackets 5 and 5 longitudinally adjacent side walls 2a, 2b. The brackets 5 are attached to each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls 2a, 2b at the points where the two longitudinally adjacent side walls 2a, 2b meet to form a seam. In the exemplary embodiment depicted, the reinforcing flange 7 and the planar portion 6 of the brackets 5 traverse over a portion of the seam (not shown) and are each secured to both longitudinally adjacent side walls 2a, 2b. More particularly, the main central 10 portion of the brackets 5 and the reinforcing flange 7 extend over a portion of the seam, one of the two arms being positioned and secured to a distinct one of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls 2a, 2b. The main central portion of the planar portion 6, the pair of arms and the reinforcing flange 7 are each secured to both longitudinally adjacent side walls 2a, 2b. When installed, one of two identical brackets 5 is an upper bracket attached to an upper portion of both longitudinally adjacent side walls 2a, 2b and the other is a lower bracket attached to the lower portion of both longitudinally adjacent side walls 2a, 2b. The reinforcing flange 7 of the upper bracket is an upper flange attached to the upper wall flange of both longitudinally adjacent side walls 2a, 2b, and the reinforcing flange 7 of the lower bracket is a lower flange attached to the lower wall flange of both longitudinally adjacent side walls 2a, 2b. The upper 20 bracket is disposed on the two longitudinally adjacent side walls 2a, 2b symmetrically relative to the lower bracket. The lower bracket and upper bracket are also each secured symmetrically on the two longitudinally adjacent side walls with their lines of symmetry aligned upon installation with the seam formed by the adjoined two longitudinally adjacent side walls. Two apertures of the first group of four apertures uniformly spaced along the entire length 25 of the reinforcing flange 7 are secured to each longitudinally adjacent side wall 2a, 2b via two apertures in each of the first group of apertures of each longitudinally adjacent side wall. Likewise, two apertures in the second group of four apertures uniformly spaced along the planar portion 6, more particularly along the entire length of the area proximal with the length of the bend between the reinforcing flange 7 and the planar portion 6 of each bracket 5, are 30 separately aligned with two apertures in the planar portion 10 of each longitudinally adjacent side wall 2a, 2b such that the planar portion 6 of the brackets 5 are secured by means of these 20 03 25 apertures to the planar portion 10 of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls 2a, 2b. Likewise, two apertures in the third group of four apertures arranged in a rectangular pattern on each of the brackets 5 are separately aligned with two apertures in the planar portion 10 of each longitudinally adjacent side wall 2a, 2b. 5 Likewise, each of the apertures in the fourth group of two apertures arranged within the third group separately are aligned with an aperture in the planar portion 10 of each longitudinally adjacent side wall 2a, 2b. The mechanical fasteners 9 are applied into the apertures of the upper bracket in a different pattern to the lower bracket. More particularly, the mechanical fasteners 9 are applied 10 into each of the four apertures of the third group of the upper bracket 5 and not into the fourth group of the upper bracket 5, and applied into the apertures of the fourth group of the lower bracket 5 and not into the apertures of the third group of the lower bracket 5. After the two longitudinally adjacent side walls are secured to one another, a further bracket assembly 1 can be used to secure one of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls 2a, 2b to a further longitudinally adjacent side wall, and so on. Preferably, a first of the two side walls 2a or 2b are secured to a second of the two side walls 2a or 2b using at least one cross member 4 before the two longitudinally adjacent side walls 2a and 2b are secured to one another using two of the bracket assemblies 1. The at least one cross member 4 is formed from a deformable sheet of metal 19 having a 20 plurality of bendable portions 20, a triangular reinforcing section 21 a reinforcing flange 22 and a plurality of apertures 23 by which the cross member is secured to each of the two side walls 2a or 2b to secure them to one another. 20 03 25

Claims

1. A bracket assembly for securing two longitudinally adjacent side walls of two longitudinally neighbouring modular conveyor units in a fixed relation in use, the bracket assembly comprising at least one bracket member and a mechanical fastening means receiving5 means for securing the at least one bracket member to both of the two longitudinallyadjacent side walls for connecting and securing the two longitudinally adjacent side walls to one another in use, the at least one bracket member securable to both of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls when in use in an area proximal to where the two longitudinally adjacent side walls meet to form a seam, the at least one bracket member10 comprising a planar portion and at least one reinforcing flange extending along at least oneedge portion of the planar portion, the at least one reinforcing flange and / or the planar portion traversing over at least a portion of the seam, wherein the mechanical fastening means receiving means is suitable for receiving a mechanical fastening means for securing the at least one reinforcing flange and / or the planar portion to both of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls in use.

2. A bracket assembly according to claim 1, wherein the mechanical fastening means receiving means is configured to secure the at least one reinforcing flange and the planar portion to both of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls in use.

3. A bracket assembly according to either of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein both the planar20 portion and the at least one reinforcing flange traverse over at least a portion of the seamin use.

4. A bracket assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the bracket assembly comprises a plurality of bracket members, wherein one of the bracket members is a lower bracket member securable in use to a lower portion of both longitudinally adjacent side25 walls and wherein one of the bracket members is an upper bracket member securable inuse to an upper portion of both longitudinally adjacent side walls.

5. A bracket assembly according to claim 4, wherein the upper bracket member and lower bracket members are distinct bracket members.20 03 256. A bracket assembly according to either claim 4 or claim 5, wherein the upper and lower bracket members are identically formed.

7. A bracket assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the at least one flange and the planar portion of the at least one bracket member are formed from a unitary body.5 8. A bracket assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the at least one reinforcingflange of the at least one bracket member is projected out of a plane defined by the planar portion of the at least one bracket member at a 90 degree angle by a bend formed along the portion of the unitary body connecting the at least one reinforcing flange and the planar portion.10 9. A bracket assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the bracket assemblycomprises at least one bracket member being T shaped in front elevation view, the T shape being formed by the planar portion comprising a main central portion and two arms extending therefrom at a first end of the main central portion in the same plane as the main central portion, wherein the two arms and the main central portion define a straight edge along a first end of the planar portion along which the bend continuously extends, wherein in use the arms and the first end of the main central portion from which the arms extend are positioned proximal to the lower or upper edge of both of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls.

10. A bracket assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the bracket assembly20 comprises two bracket members being T shaped in front elevation view, the 'T shapebeing formed by the planar portion comprising a main central portion and two arms extending therefrom at a first end of the main central portion in the same plane as the main central portion, wherein in use the arms and the first end of the main central portion from which the arms extend of a first of the two bracket members are positioned proximal25 to a lower edge of both of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls, and wherein in usethe arms and the first end of the main central portion from which the arms extend of a second of the two bracket members are positioned proximal to an upper edge of both of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls.

11. A bracket assembly according to either of claim 9 or claim 10, wherein the main central 30 portion and the at least one reinforcing flange are extendable over at least a portion of theseam.20 03 2512. A bracket assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the mechanical fastening means receiving means are configurable to secure the main central portion and the at least one reinforcing flange to both longitudinally adjacent side walls.

13. A bracket assembly according to claim any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the two arms are 5 securable to a distinct one of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls.

14. A bracket assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the mechanical fastening means receiving means comprises a predetermined pattern of apertures distributed over the area of the at least one bracket member and configured to receive the mechanical fastening means.10 15. A bracket assembly according to claim 14, wherein the predetermined pattern of aperturesforms a symmetric pattern of apertures.

16. A conveyor module comprising a bracket assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the predetermined pattern of apertures of each of the mechanical fastening means receiving means of each of the two longitudinally adjacent side walls comprises a group of apertures aligned with the apertures of the mechanical fastening means receiving means of the at least one bracket member.

17. A conveyor module as claimed in claim 16, comprising an assembly for aiding installation of a roller onto, and removal from, a conveyor unit, the assembly comprising a V shaped supporting edge disposed at a lower periphery of a hole of a first side wall of the conveyor20 unit, wherein the V shaped supporting edge is suitable for supporting a rolled steel angle.

18. A conveyor module as claimed in claim 17, wherein the assembly for aiding installation of a roller onto, and removal from, a conveyor unit comprises at least one roller mounting plate comprising a V shaped projection, wherein a V shaped aperture is formable between the V shaped supporting edge disposed at the lower periphery of the hole of the first side wall25 of the conveyor unit and the V shaped projection of the roller mounting plate.

19. A method of installing a roller onto, and of removing from, a conveyor module according to any of the preceding claims.

20. A method of installing a roller onto, and of removing from, a conveyor unit according to any one of claims 17 to 19 comprising the steps of supporting the rolled steel angle on the30 'V' shaped supporting edge disposed at the lower periphery of the hole of the first side wallof the conveyor unit and a V shaped supporting edge disposed at a lower periphery of ahole of a second side wall of the conveyor unit, wherein the second side wall is oppositethe first side wall, the method further comprising the steps of sliding a roller along therolled steel angle and fastening the roller by means of a roller mounting plate and a rollermounting plate fastening means associated with each of the two opposite side walls.20 03 25

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