Additional frame for splicing conveyor belts and related splices

Abstract

The invention relates to a splice (10) frame (20) intended to be attached to at least a first end portion (11) of a conveyor belt (1) of the type comprising a body (2) made of a flexible material, in which a reinforcement (3) including a cable (4) is housed, characterized in that the frame (20) comprises a retaining member having at least one body configured to extend at least partially transversely with respect to the conveyor belt (1), and an anchor member configured to engage at least a portion of the cable (4) to secure the body of the retaining member to the first end portion (11) of the conveyor belt (1), the retaining member comprising a retaining interface for retaining a fastening means (110) of a splicing device (100) intended to splice the first end portion (11) to a second end portion (12) of the conveyor belt (1) when tension is applied between the splicing device (100) and the conveyor belt (1).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The invention generally relates to the technical field of conveyor belt splices intended to connect the ends of at least one conveyor belt. For the sake of brevity, the term "conveyor belt" is used in this description to refer to both conveyor belts and drive belts.

[0002] The invention more particularly relates to a frame for a conveyor belt splice of the type comprising a body made of a flexible material within which reinforcement, including cables, is housed.

[0003] prior art Conveyor belts are known to be used to transport different materials or products, such as coal, ore, or industrial or agricultural products. These conveyor belts consist of belts made of reinforced elastomeric or reinforced synthetic materials of suitable length and width, the ends of which must be connected to each other before or after assembly on support and drive devices that include deflection rollers and idle rollers. In many cases, these devices also include tensioning elements to ensure that the conveyor belt is properly tensioned.

[0004] These conveyor belts are used in particular in mines, quarries and other places subject to harsh working conditions and high internal stresses. Consequently, such conveyor belts are provided with reinforcements in the form of wires or cables, for example made of steel, arranged along the length of the conveyor belt and embedded in its body, the reinforcements usually being made of elastomer or synthetic material to provide the resistance required for the particular use for which the belt is intended.

[0005] There are many solutions for joining the ends of conveyor belts. Originally, and still today, vulcanization was used when the belt was made of reinforced vulcanizable elastomer. For example, after preparatory work intended to create complementary profiles on each end that will be applied to each other when the ends are joined, vulcanization is carried out by applying heat and vacuum, as is well known. One variant of vulcanization is cold bonding.

[0006] In the case of cable-reinforced conveyor belts, the effects of abutment vulcanization or heat welding are not sufficient to secure the two strands of the cable reinforcement together at each end. This results in discontinuities in the reinforcement and a loss of mechanical tensile strength. Solutions are also known that involve strategically distributing the cables and their ends over the longitudinal extent of the splice, so that the discontinuities are not all aligned along the same transverse axis, which locally and substantially weakens the conveyor belt at the splice. Such solutions, which are quite common today, require the simultaneous stripping of the end portions of all cables on both sides of the splice to be made over a relatively long length, and then the creation of a tangle of these cable ends over a certain length, while arranging them in a longitudinal staggered pattern along the width of the belt. In this way, two adjacent cable ends are not aligned transversely, i.e., across the width. Once this operation is performed, the cables then need to be embedded in the material constituting the belt body, and a vulcanization operation is performed to complete the splice.

[0007] The implementation of such a method is particularly restrictive. First, the variety of work necessitates very long maintenance times, sometimes exceeding one day or even several days. Additionally, the very harsh conditions of using conveyor belts necessitate careful work when making splices, which can only be performed by highly skilled specialists. Given the maintenance periods, several teams of people must work in shifts, and each team must be qualified. Furthermore, these splices require work to be performed over very long lengths—several meters in length, typically 5 to 10 meters. Because the vulcanization operation must be performed in one step over the entire length of the splice, it is necessary to have a vulcanization press on-site, usually at the location where the splice is to be repaired, and to be able to adapt the vulcanization press to the splice length. Therefore, the execution time and the corresponding costs are very high.

[0008] Other solutions are known for connecting the ends of the cables, for example by splicing, but again, such solutions require skilled personnel and generally require cable stripping operations near the end portions of the conveyor belt to be joined together, which are very time-consuming to perform.

[0009] Another well-known connection method uses roughly U-shaped staples cut from metal strips, with upper and lower plates connected by hinges. These staples are fastened in two series across each of the ends of the conveyor belts to be connected. The hinges protrude, allowing one series to interlock with the other series. A connecting and hinged shaft is then threaded through the interior of the connecting hinge to connect the two ends, thereby forming a kind of hinge. Known means used to fasten clips to conveyor belt ends consist of shaft-like fastening means such as studs, rivets, and / or screws. These shafts have the advantage of passing through cables embedded in the conveyor belt and thus reaching into the end sections to be connected together. However, experience has shown that this solution is not always satisfactory from the standpoint of tensile strength, as the cables are subject to a high degree of fraying. To minimize the effects of this fraying, staples are generally used to cover the end portions of the conveyor belt over a longer length, thus allowing the shaft-like fastening means to be distributed over a longer cable length, but such a feature is particularly restrictive as it reduces the flexibility of the splice as it passes through deflection rollers.

[0010] Many other solutions have been developed to further improve the tensile strength and flexibility of splices and to reduce the required maintenance time during which conveyor belts must remain stationary. For example, more recent solutions have been proposed that provide splicing devices using flat connecting elements, typically made of reinforced elastomer or synthetic material, positioned to straddle one side of the conveyor belt end and fastened to the ends to be spliced. Examples of such splicing devices are given in patents EP 0 827 575-B1 and EP 1 163 459-B1. These devices comprise upper and lower plates, optionally connected by a central portion. The lower and upper plates have a gap suitable for engaging a particular end of the conveyor belt. In other words, these splicing devices comprise two pairs of opposing fixed flanges, and the conveyor belt end is inserted between each of the two flanges of the same pair.

[0011] The lower and upper parts that form the splice plates on the ends of the conveyor belt are generally secured by shaft-like fastening means such as rivets, pins, studs, screw-nut systems, or by cold gluing or flat vulcanization of the flanges to the outer flat surface of the conveyor belt engaged between them. These splice devices are made of flexible, elastic material, for example, vulcanized rubber, or synthetic material such as polyurethane, and they generally include a built-in frame.

[0012] Such solutions are used effectively for fabric-reinforced conveyor belts. However, in the case of cable reinforcement, the problem of shaft-like fastening means passing through the cable always exists, and increasing the number of shaft-like fastening means to minimize localized deterioration of the cable leads to stiffening of the splice, which is contrary to the flexibility required for passing through deflection rollers.

[0013] There is therefore a strong need for those skilled in the art to achieve a more effective solution than that proposed by the prior art for splicing two ends of a conveyor belt of the type comprising a body made of a flexible material, inside which reinforcement members including cables are housed. DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

[0014] It is an object of the present invention to provide a solution that is an evolution of existing splices for cable reinforced conveyor belts and that addresses some or all of the above problems.

[0015] One object of the invention is to propose a solution that ensures improved structural strength of the splices of such conveyor belts, in particular to withstand high tensile stresses for use in the transport of various materials such as coal or ores, while providing the flexibility necessary for the passage of deflection rollers.

[0016] It is also an object to reduce costs by proposing a solution that has low manufacturing, storage and distribution costs, is easy to implement, does not require skilled labor and reduces maintenance time, thereby reducing maintenance costs and downtime of conveyor belts and without any loss in the quality of the resulting product, i.e., maintaining or even improving the quality and strength of the splice.

[0017] To this end, the invention relates to a splice frame intended to be attached to at least a first end portion of a conveyor belt of the type comprising a body made of a flexible material, in which a reinforcement material including a cable is housed, characterized in that the frame comprises a retaining member having at least one body configured to extend at least partially transversely with respect to the conveyor belt, and an anchor member configured to engage at least a portion of the cable to secure the body of the retaining member to the first end portion of the conveyor belt, the retaining member comprising a retaining interface for retaining a fixing means of a splicing device intended to splice the first end portion of the conveyor belt to a second end portion when tension is applied between the splicing device and the conveyor belt.

[0018] A frame with such a combination of properties is particularly advantageous in that it forms a structure for holding the fixing means of the splicing device and makes it possible to absorb the tension forces passing through the splice. Furthermore, the fixing means of the splicing device can apply a force to a holding member, which is itself integral with at least two anchoring members that preferably engage two adjacent, transversely spaced cables. Under these conditions, the tensile stress experienced by each anchoring member is divided by at least two relative to the tensile stress experienced by the fixing means of the splicing device, and this tensile stress of the anchoring means can be absorbed by at least two cables. The frame therefore forms a means for distributing the tensile stress experienced by the anchoring means, making it possible to reduce the effects of cable fraying compared to the prior art.

[0019] Furthermore, because the anchor members do not pass through the entire thickness of the splice in the conveyor belt, but only through a thickness corresponding to the thickness of the end portion obtained after the peeling operation, the flexibility of the splice is not substantially affected.

[0020] Finally, such a frame allows the ends of the cables housed in each of the substantially transversely aligned sections to abut directly, or even indirectly if a longitudinal space is formed between the two ends of the conveyor belt, making such a splice easier to implement and allowing the length of the splice to be substantially reduced.

[0021] The retaining interface of the retaining member enables retention of the fastening means of a splicing device intended to splice a first portion of the retainer to a second end portion of a conveyor belt in a splicing position where the first and second end portions are disposed between two splicing plates of the splicing device fastened together by the fastening means. In such a configuration, the frame attached to at least the first end portion of the conveyor belt is separate from the splicing device. In particular, the anchor member is separate from the fastening means used to fasten the splicing device, and the splicing device is of a type comprising at least two splicing plates, each covering a different side of the first and second end portions of the conveyor belt, such that the first and second end portions of the conveyor belt are disposed between the two splicing plates and the splicing plates are fastened together by the fastening means. In this way, the retaining interface ensures the retention function for the fastening means of the splicing device when tension is applied between the splicing device and the conveyor belt. The mounted frame therefore ensures a reinforcing function for at least the first end portion of the conveyor belt in order to hold the splicing device when subjected to tension.

[0022] Preferably, the anchor members each include a shaft configured to pass through the first end portion, which may be a stud anchor tab forming the retaining member, or, for example, the shaft of a screw forming the retaining member.

[0023] Preferably, the frame has a rigid structure, which allows for better retention than a flexible structure such as a cable.

[0024] Preferably, the body of the anchor member and / or the retaining member is metal.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the holding interfaces of at least some of the holding elements are supported by the body of the holding element. This simplifies the construction of the frame. In one advantageous configuration, the holding interfaces have a concave surface that forms a longitudinally oriented or open indentation to support at least one fastening means. This support forms a receiving cradle for the fastening means, allowing for uniform distribution of the forces absorbed by the cable in which the associated anchor element engages.

[0026] According to one embodiment, at least a plurality of the retaining members are connected together along an axis intended to extend transversely relative to the conveyor belt. Such a feature facilitates installation of the retaining members by an operator. This allows multiple retaining members to be connected simultaneously. Additionally, the integral connection in the transverse direction of the conveyor belt allows the belt to maintain flexibility.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the frame includes at least one support plate configured to cover at least a portion of the same side of the first and second end portions of the conveyor belt, the support plate including at least some of the plurality of retaining members arranged in a predetermined pattern, e.g., a houndstooth pattern. Preferably, the pattern is selected to ensure uniform distribution of tension across the extent of the cable end portions. The purpose of such a support plate is to secure or connect at least some of the retaining members together in the longitudinal direction of the conveyor belt without compromising flexibility. In this way, by using such a support plate, preferably made of the same flexible material as the main body of the conveyor belt, it is possible to connect, in a single operation, a plurality of retaining members that have been pre-positioned on the support plate to their corresponding locations on the associated end portions.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the distance separating the two anchor members of the retaining member corresponds to the distance separating the two cables at the first end portion of the conveyor belt. In this way, the retaining member is connected to two separate adjacent cables. More generally, the distance separating the two anchor members of the retaining member can be selected and configured to substantially correspond to a multiple of the distance separating the two cables from the first end portion of the conveyor belt.

[0029] In one embodiment, at least some of the anchor members of at least some of the retaining members comprise studs having anchor tabs located in extensions of the body of the associated retaining member, each stud preferably being formed in one piece.

[0030] In one embodiment, the body of the retaining member comprises upper and / or lower parts connected together by anchor members, and the lower and / or upper parts of the body of the retaining member are intended to come from one side or the other of the first end portion of the conveyor belt, depending on their thickness. Such a configuration further allows the corresponding end portion of the conveyor belt to be clamped, with pressure distributed over a larger surface. Such pressure reduces the transmission of force through the anchor members into the cable, as tension is absorbed by both the cable holding the anchor members and the material of the end portion clamped between the upper and lower parts of the retaining member.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the first of the two parts consisting of the upper and lower parts of the body of the retaining member comprises at least one recess, such as a countersunk hole, suitable for receiving the head of one of the anchor members, and the second of the two parts comprises at least one anchor interface, such as a threaded hole, suitable for cooperating with the anchor portion of the anchor member.

[0032] According to one embodiment, a first of the upper or lower parts comprises at least one recess suitable for accommodating at least a portion of the head or a portion of the central transverse shaft of an anchor member, such as a stud. According to a complementary or alternative embodiment, a second of the upper or lower parts comprises at least one recess suitable for accommodating at least a portion of an end of the anchor member, preferably curved under the part.

[0033] According to a second aspect, the invention also relates to a conveyor belt extending along a longitudinal axis comprising a body made of a flexible material, within which is housed a reinforcement member comprising at least partially axially extending cables, the conveyor belt comprising first and second end portions connected together by a splice device comprising at least two splice plates, each covering a separate side of the first and second end portions of the conveyor belt, thus the first and second end portions of the conveyor belt being arranged between the two splice plates, the splice plates being secured together by fastening means, and the splice comprising at least one splice frame as described above attached to the first and second end portions and configured to retain the fastening means of the splice device when tension is applied between the splice device and the conveyor belt.

[0034] According to another aspect, the invention provides a method of making a conveyor belt splice as described above, comprising the steps of: - peeling off upper and lower portions of a conveyor belt body at first and second end portions of the conveyor belt; - providing at least one splice frame attached to a first end portion and a second end portion of the conveyor belt; - providing a splicing device to join the first and second end portions of the conveyor belt.

[0035] Such a method is particularly advantageous in that it is easy to perform by one person, without requiring special skills.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the step of peeling the upper and lower portions of the conveyor belt body of the first and second end portions of the conveyor belt corresponds to a material removal operation of the flexible material body of the corresponding end portion, with material located on the associated end portion layer or outer and inner peripheral layers surrounding a central layer in which reinforcement materials, such as cables, are located. Because the method does not require removal of all material around the cables of the end portions, the central layer is not peeled during this step, saving a considerable amount of time and reducing maintenance costs and downtime of the conveyor belt. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0037] Further features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Figure 1A] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a conveyor belt splice according to a first embodiment. [Figure 1B] FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of an assembled splice according to this first embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a view of a first end portion and a second end portion of a conveyor belt, each provided with a frame, according to this first embodiment; FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a top perspective view of an assembled splice according to a second embodiment. [Figure 4A] A detail of Figure 3. [Figure 4B] FIG. 10 is a detailed partial top perspective view of an assembled splice according to a third embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a detailed bottom perspective view of an assembled splice according to this third method of realization. [Figure 6A] 10 is a local cross-sectional view of a support of a fixing means to a holding member according to a fourth embodiment; FIG. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B is a top perspective view of the cross-sectional view of FIG. 6A. [Figure 6C] FIG. 6B is a bottom perspective view of the cross-sectional view of FIG. 6A. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a top perspective view of a local cross section of a support of a fixing means to a holding member according to a fifth embodiment; [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram of a splice frame according to a sixth embodiment. [Figure 9] Detail of a splice with a frame according to this sixth embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a top perspective view of an assembled splice according to this sixth embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 13 is a top perspective view of an assembled splice according to a seventh embodiment. [Figure 12] 13 is a view of a splice support plate according to an eighth embodiment. FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram of a splice of a conveyor belt according to this eighth embodiment. [Figure 14] 13A and 13B are diagrams of a splice support plate according to a ninth embodiment.

[0038] For clarity, identical or similar elements are labeled with the same reference numerals in all figures.

[0039] In the description and claims, for clarity of the description and claims, the terms longitudinal, transverse, and vertical are employed without limitation with reference to the X, Y, and Z axes shown in the figures. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0040] 1A, 1B, and 2 show a splice 10 of a conveyor belt 1 according to a first embodiment. The conveyor belt 1 extends along a longitudinal axis X, which corresponds approximately to its direction of travel along the conveyor belt. The conveyor belt 1 comprises a body 2 made of a flexible material, such as a vulcanizable elastomer or a synthetic material, and is reinforced with a reinforcement 3 including cables 4 embedded in the body 2. The forces absorbed by the conveyor belt 1 are primarily longitudinal; therefore, the cables 4 are disposed within the body 2 of the conveyor belt 1 extending axially, and the cables act as traction forces during use of the conveyor belt 1.

[0041] The conveyor belt 1 has a first edge 11' and a second edge 12' from which a first end portion 11 and a second end portion 12 extend on the conveyor belt 1 and are spliced ​​together by a splicing device 100, ensuring a splice 10 of the two end portions 11, 12. It should be noted that in practice, taking into account the distances for transporting different materials or different products depending on the use in the quarry or other place of use, a single conveyor belt 1 can be formed by splicing several longitudinal conveyor belt portions spliced ​​together by the splicing device 100.

[0042] The end portions 11, 12 are configured so that, at the splicing location, the splice 10 in the splicing device 100 has a thickness equal to that of the conveyor belt 1. In this way, the use of the splicing device 100 does not result in localized excess thickness in the end portions 11, 12, and the thickness is constant. Such a feature is particularly important to avoid premature wear due to the passage of scrapers on the conveyor. To meet this constraint, the first end portion 11 and the second end portion 12 are thinned, especially after being stripped by a stripping operation, to ensure installation of the splicing device 100. This stripping preferably extends in thickness up to the cable 4, i.e., to a thickness corresponding to the thickness of the cable 4.

[0043] The conveyor belt 1 contains reinforcing cables 4 within its body 2. The conveyor belt 1 is structured in such a way that, in the direction of its thickness e, it comprises two outer flexible material layers of the body 2 free from reinforcement 3, i.e. a substantially central layer 1A integrating the cables 4, inserted vertically between the upper and lower parts of the body 2 of the conveyor belt 1.

[0044] Each of the cables 4 of the conveyor belt 1 continues its longitudinal extension within the body 2 of the conveyor belt 1 until it reaches a corresponding end portion, where the loose cut end of each cable 4 is located. The end portions 11, 12 are formed by a central layer 1A that integrates the cables in the longitudinal extension of the conveyor belt, the outer layers being stripped away on the remaining part of the conveyor belt beyond the splices 10 on either side of the central layer 1A, i.e., the upper and lower layers of material that are normally located thereon. The thickness of the end portions 11, 12 corresponds to the thickness of the central belt 1A obtained after the stripping operation and is preferably equal to the average diameter of the cables 4 or the diameter of the largest cable 4. Therefore, a complete stripping of each cable, corresponding to the complete removal of all the material of the body 2 surrounding the cable 4, in particular the material of the body 2 between the cables 4, is not necessary.

[0045] A splicing device 100 for splicing two end portions 11, 12 comprises two splicing plates 101, 102 each sized to cover a first end portion 11 and a second end portion 12 on the same side of the conveyor belt 1 across all or part of, preferably the entire width of, the conveyor belt 1. The splicing plates 101, 102 include an overlapping lower splice plate 101 spanning the first and second end portions 11, 12 and a lower splice plate 102 spanning the first and second end portions 11, 12. Each of the splicing plates 101, 102 has a thickness complementary to that of the corresponding end portion and configured to collectively fill the material removal that occurred during the peeling step to thin the first and second end portions 11, 12. In this way, after splicing, the splice 10 is flush with the lower surface 1" and the upper surface 1' of the conveyor belt 1, i.e. the thickness e of the conveyor belt 1 is constant, without relief. As already mentioned above, such a feature makes it possible to avoid premature wear resulting from the use of scrapers (not shown) located in the path of the material to be conveyed and configured to scrape off the upper surface 1' of the conveyor belt 1.

[0046] The first and second end portions 11, 12 of the conveyor belt 1 are captured or clamped vertically between two splice plates 101, 102, each creating a material bridge between the first and second ends 11, 12. The splice plates 101, 102 may be made of a flexible and resilient material, such as vulcanized rubber or a synthetic material such as polyurethane, and may include an embedded frame, such as a fabric frame. The material is preferably the same flexible material that makes up the main body 2 of the conveyor belt 1.

[0047] The lower 101 and upper 102 splice plates are fastened by shaft-like fastening means 110, such as rivets, pins, studs and / or screw-nut systems, which pass through the thickness and successively through the first of the two splice plates 101 or 102, then through one of the two end portions 11 or 12 and finally through the second of the two splice plates 101 or 102. In this first embodiment, the fastening means 110 are screws each comprising a head 111 and a threaded anchor portion 112, and the splice plates 101, 102 comprise a first interface 113 for cooperating with the head 111 of the fastening means 110 and / or a second interface 114 for cooperating with the anchor portion 112 of the fastening means 110. The first and second interfaces 113, 114 are carried by inserts (e.g. washers 115) embedded in or attached to the connecting plates 101, 102. Preferably, the insert carrying the second interface, here a threaded insert, locally matches a portion or group of cables 4, for example by following the same curvature, allowing a large amount of clamping without deforming it (see Figure 5).

[0048] The first interfaces 113 comprise vertically drilled washers 115, each with an indentation suitable for receiving the head 111 of one of the fastening means 11. In such a configuration, the washers 115 forming the first interfaces 113 are therefore associated around and form a complementary attachment to holes in the upper splice plate 101 suitable for passing the fastening means 110. To penetrate and engage the splice plate, these washers 115 each have a point on their periphery directed towards the splice plate supporting it. Alternatively, or in combination, for example when different first interfaces 113 are integrated together in the same splice plate, these washers 115 can be integrated into the splice plate 101, i.e., embedded in a flexible and elastic material, such as vulcanized rubber, forming the associated splice plate.

[0049] The second interface 114 comprises a cylindrical tubular portion 116, the inner cylindrical surface of which is suitable for cooperating with the anchor portion 112 of the fixing means 110 by means of a threaded hole complementary to the threads of the anchor portion 112.

[0050] According to the invention, the splice 10 comprises a splice frame 20 attached to the first end portion 11 and another frame 20 attached to the second end portion 12. These frames 20 are configured to hold all or part of the fastening means 110 of the splicing device 100 when tension is applied between the splicing device 100 and the conveyor belt 1.

[0051] In particular, the frame 20 is attached to first and second end portions 11, 12 of reduced thickness, which after the step of peeling off the first end portion 11 and the second end portion 12 of the conveyor belt 1, so that the central layer 1A integrating the cables is exposed and the thickness of the end portions 11, 12 is reduced, preferably to the thickness of the cables 4; and before installing the splicing device 100, thereby overlapping the two splicing plates 101, 102 across the first and second end portions 11, 12 of the conveyor belt 1 provided with the frame 20.

[0052] The frame 20 comprises a retaining member 30 comprising a plurality of studs 301. Each stud 301 has a generally "U" shape before being fixed to the conveyor belt. The studs 301 are formed from a one-piece, preferably metal, shaft. The body 31 of the stud 301 is formed from a central transverse portion of the shaft that forms the retaining interface 32, the body 31 being configured to extend transversely with respect to the conveyor belt 1. The central portion of the shaft is interposed between two lateral shaft portions that form the anchor member 40. In other words, each stud 301 comprises an anchor tab 33 formed from an extension of the central portion of the shaft, i.e., on both sides of the body 31.

[0053] These anchor members 40, here anchor tabs 33, are each shaft-like and provided with a point and their ends to facilitate their insertion into and passing perpendicularly through the thickness of the associated end portion 11, 12. After insertion, the tip of the anchor tab 33 of each stud 301 is bent or curved under the corresponding end portion 11, 12 to lock the stud 301 in place once installed and ensure that it cannot be removed while the conveyor belt 1 is in operation.

[0054] The retaining interface 32 of the retaining member 30 is configured to retain the fastening means 110 when tension is applied between the splicing device 100 and the conveyor belt 1. The retaining interface 32 is supported by the body 31 of the retaining member 30. The anchor tabs 33 of the same stud 301 are secured to two separate cables 4 of the same corresponding end portions 11, 12, the cables 4 extending axially with respect to the conveyor belt 1. The body 31 of each stud 301 is then disposed at least partially transversely between two adjacent cables 4 to form a connecting bridge between the two cables 4, and thus also transversely along the axis Y with respect to the conveyor belt 1. The two anchor tabs 33 of the same stud 301 are spaced apart by a distance d equal to the distance separating the central axes of the two cables 4 of the corresponding end portions 11, 12 (see FIG. 5 ). More generally, this distance d is selected to be a multiple of the average spacing between two cables to ensure an even distribution of the cables along the width of the conveyor belt 1. Of course, variations may be possible, such as a stud having more than two anchor tabs 33, for example three anchor tabs each securing to one of three adjacent cables.

[0055] The studs 301 of each of the frame 20 are uniformly distributed in a suitable pattern on each of the two end portions 11, 12. Each of the two end portions 11, 12 must have enough retaining members 30 to ensure the function of retaining the fastening means 110 of the splicing device 100 when tension is applied to the belt, but there should not be too many retaining members 30 so as not to significantly deteriorate the flexibility of the conveyor belt 1 at the splice 10.

[0056] When the conveyor belt 1 is in use, it moves longitudinally to transport various materials or products. This transport involves the resistance of the conveyor belt 1 acting as a traction force. In particular, at the splice 10, tension tends to pull the first end portion 11 away from the second end portion 12, which are then held together by the splicing device 100. When subjected to such tension, one of the two end portions 11, 12 exerts a tensile force on the fastening means 110 of the fastening device 100 passing therethrough, which is held by the splicing plates 101, 102 of the splicing device 100, which are themselves held by the other of the two end portions 11, 12, preferably symmetrically with respect to a vertical splicing plane parallel to the transverse axis Y located between or including the two end edges 11', 12'. The splicing plates 101, 102 of the splicing device 100 are therefore subjected to high tensile stresses and the fixing means 110 make it possible to maintain the axial separation of the end portions 11, 12 from one another. The frame 20 forms a reinforcement for the associated end portions 11, 12 by absorbing the tension of the screws 110 which, during traction, come to rest against the retaining interfaces 32 of the retaining members 30 placed in their path. Such a support is shown in more detail with reference to Figures 6A, 6B, 6C and 7 according to different variants.

[0057] Each retaining member 30 is longitudinally disposed between at least one of the fastening means 110 and one of the edges 11', 12' of the conveyor belt 1, i.e., one of the associated end portions 11, 12. In this manner, the fastening means 110 is held by the retaining members 30 and rests, directly or indirectly, against at least one of the retaining interfaces 32. Furthermore, these retaining members 30 are secured to at least two separate cables 4, preferably two adjacent cables 4, as shown in this embodiment. In this manner, each retaining member 30 forms an obstacle to longitudinal displacement of the screw 110 during tensioning of the associated end portion 11, 12 with respect to the splicing device 100. Such a feature contributes to reinforcing the connection between the two end portions 11, 12, thereby reinforcing the splice 10.

[0058] The retaining interface 32 carried by the retaining member 30 affixed to the first end portion 11 holds the fastening means 110 of the splicing device 100 in a first pulling direction T1 (see FIG. 1B). The retaining interface 32 carried by the retaining member 30 affixed to the second end portion 12, in turn, holds the fastening means 110 of the splicing device 100 in a second pulling direction T2 opposite to the first pulling direction T1. Thus, when tension is applied between the splicing device 100 and each end of the conveyor belt 1, the frame 20 contributes to maintaining the relative longitudinal spacing of the end portions 11, 12, ensuring the structural strength of the ends and splice 10 of the conveyor belt 1 to withstand significant tensile stresses. Furthermore, because the retaining member 30 is located only in the thinned end portions 11, 12, the effect of the retaining member 30 on the flexibility of the belt is reduced. Finally, even though the shaft-like fastening means 110 passes through the reinforcing cables 4, the tension of a single fastening means 110 is distributed over at least two cables, reducing the tension absorption per cable 4 and limiting the effects of fraying.

[0059] In this embodiment, the retaining members 30 are arranged in multiple, particularly three, separate transverse alignments or rows per end portion 11, 12. The retaining members 30 are further arranged in multiple longitudinal alignments per end portion 11, 12, with each longitudinal alignment of the end portion 11, 12 aligned with the longitudinal alignment of the other end portion 12, 11. Each retaining member 30 is secured to two separate adjacent cables 4. Here, one cable is connected by the retaining means 30 to a single adjacent cable, thus connecting the cables in independent pairs. In such a configuration, if the end portions 11, 12 include an odd number of cables, one of the cables at the side edge may not have a retaining member passing through it. In general, such a configuration is interesting in that it maintains good flexibility of the splice 10, facilitating troughing of the conveyor belt 1. Of course, such a distribution of the retaining members 30 may be different. For example, the retaining members 30 with studs 301 may be arranged in a staggered pattern, so that they are thus arranged in, for example, three separate transverse alignments or rows per end portion 11, 12, the studs 301 being shifted from row to row by a step corresponding to the average spacing between two cables 4. This distribution also depends on the pattern formed by the fixing means 110 on the splicing device 100.

[0060] It should be noted that this first embodiment provides fastening means 110 that do not cross either of the end portions 11, 12, but pass through the two connecting plates 101, 102 of the connecting device 100 along a central row that passes through the longitudinally delimited space between the two end edges 11', 12' of the conveyor belt 1. It should be noted that in an alternative embodiment, the two end portions 11, 12 may abut within a splice. In this case, if a central row of fastening means 110 is provided, the fastening means 110 of this row passes through one of the end portions having a suitable length that is slightly greater than that of the other end portion. In yet another variant, the two splice plates 101, 102 are joined at their centers by a material splice that forms an "H" profile of the splicing device 100; the splice may be formed integrally with either of the two connecting plates 101, 102 or may form an insert.

[0061] Two rows of fastening means 110 are arranged to abut the longitudinal ends of the splice device 100 and further comprise protective edges that project longitudinally from the first interface 113, here the washer 115, towards the outside of the splice 10. The two edges that longitudinally delimit the upper splice plate 101 are then reinforced, limiting the risk of wear that could create relief and therefore the risk that the splice plate could get into the path of any scraper. Of course, such reinforced edges can additionally or alternatively be applied to the lower splice plate 102.

[0062] 3, 4A, 4B, 5, 6, and 7 show other embodiments of the splicing device 100 that differ from the first embodiment, particularly in that the splicing device 100 is configured so that each fastening means 110 rests against a separate retaining member 30 arranged in its path during traction. Thus, the pattern formed by the arrangement of fastening means 110 connecting the two splicing plates 101, 102 and passing through a corresponding one of the end portions 11, 12 is associated with and similar to the retaining members 30. Thus, the distribution of the fastening means 110 depends on the distribution of the retaining members 30. Such a structure provides improved tensile strength. These embodiments do not have a central row of fastening means 110.

[0063] Conversely, in the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B , the fastening means 110 of the splicing device 100 are not perfectly aligned longitudinally, two for each of the retaining interfaces 32 of the retaining member 30. The pattern formed by the retaining members 30 on the first and second end portions 11, 12 can be selected so that most, but not all, of the fastening means 110 of the splicing device 100 are retained by and longitudinally aligned with the retaining member 30 by directly or indirectly leaning against at least one of the retaining interfaces 32. Such an embodiment is practical when the frame 20 and splicing device 100 are to be fastened under difficult conditions or when assembly precision is not perfect. This reduces the time required to install the frame 20. In this case, some of the fastening elements 110 can be positioned through the cable 4 and / or offset from the retaining members 30 of the frame 20, while still ensuring a secure hold. In such a configuration, the random arrangement of the fixing means 110, here the screws, with respect to the cable stages of the belt 1 preferably combines leaning against the retaining member 30, tightening the screws 110 onto the belt, and passing the cable through several fixing means 110.

[0064] 3 and 4A, this second embodiment shows a retaining member 30 of stud type 301 equivalent to the first embodiment, with the difference that the retaining interface 32 has a longitudinally oriented or open recess 320. This recess 320 forms the retaining interface 32 that allows at least one, here only one, of the fastening means 110 to be received for support, directly or indirectly. This support forms a receiving cradle for the shaft-like fastening means 110, in particular the shaft itself, minimizing relative transverse movements between the associated end portion and the splicing device 100 and allowing an even distribution of the forces absorbed on the two cables to which the associated stud 301 is fixed thanks to the anchor member 40, in particular here the anchor tabs 33.

[0065] 4B and 5 show views of a third embodiment which differs substantially from the second embodiment in that, like the first embodiment, the retention interface 32 of the stud-type 301 retention member 32 is straight.

[0066] 6A, 6B, and 6C show views of a fourth embodiment, which differs substantially from the second embodiment in that, like the first embodiment, the retention interface 32 of the stud-type retention member 32 is straight. Furthermore, each retention member 30 includes a lower part 35' configured to connect two anchor members 40, specifically two anchor tabs 33, of the same retention member 30. Each lower part 35' is located on the vertically opposite side of the end portion of the shaft of the stud 301 that receives the body 31. The lower part 35' is generally rectangular in shape and has a longitudinally oriented recess 320 in at least its front wall. This recess 320 forms a complementary retention interface 32 to that carried by the body 31 of the stud 301 and allows it to directly or indirectly receive at least one of the fastening means 110 for support. Such a recess 320 ensures better distribution of forces on the cable to which the associated retention member is attached. A suitable indentation is provided on one side of each lower part 35' to receive at least a portion of each of the two anchor tabs 33 of the stud 301, bent under the end portions 11,12.

[0067] FIG. 7 shows a top perspective view of a local cross section of a support of a fastening means for a retaining member according to a fifth embodiment. This embodiment differs from the previous fourth embodiment in that, in addition to a lower part 35′, it also comprises an upper part 34′ for receiving a stud 301. Since each retaining member 30 comprises an upper part 34 and a lower part 35 connected together by an anchor member 40, the function of the lower part 35′ and the upper part 34′ is similar to that of the lower and upper parts 34, 35 of the body 31, with reference to the embodiments described below. The lower and upper parts 34, 35 of the body 31 of each retaining member 30 form inserts intended to rest vertically downward, in the direction of their thickness e, on either side of the associated first end portion 11, 12 of the conveyor belt 1. The upper part 34′ comprises, on one side thereof, an indentation, whether straight or having a recess 320, suitable for receiving at least a portion of the body 31 of the stud 301. Here, the presence of the upper part 34' displaces the retaining interface 32 at its lateral edges. The body 31 of the retaining member 30 comprises an upper part 34' which forms an insert carrying the retaining interface 32.

[0068] 8, 9, and 10 show views of a frame 20 for a splice 10 according to a sixth embodiment. This sixth embodiment differs substantially from the previous embodiments in that the body 31 of each retaining member 30 comprises an upper part 34 and a lower part 35 connected together by an anchor member 40. The lower and upper parts 34, 35 of the body 31 of each retaining member 30 form inserts intended to rest vertically downward on either side of the associated first end portion 11, 12 of the conveyor belt 1, in the direction of its thickness e. The anchor member 40 comprises a screw provided with a head 41 and a threaded shaft that at least partially forms an anchor portion 42. The anchor member 40 extends vertically through the thickness of the associated end portion 11, 12, connecting and clamping the lower and upper parts 34, 35 of the body 31 against each vertical side of the associated end portion 11, 12.

[0069] The upper part 34 forms a unitary metal plate and includes two recesses 310, such as countersunk holes, each suitable for receiving the head 41 of one of the anchor members 40. The lower part 35, vertically opposite the upper part 34 with respect to the associated end portion, forms another unitary metal plate and includes two anchor interfaces 311, such as threaded holes, suitable for cooperating with each of the anchor portions 42 of the two screw-type anchor members 40.

[0070] An advantage of this embodiment is that the plurality of retaining members 30 are connected together along an axis Y′ intended to extend transversely, i.e. parallel to the transverse axis Y of the conveyor belt 1. Such a connection is preferably configured so that the length of this assembly corresponds to the width of the conveyor belt 1. In this way, the frame 20 can be directly and quickly positioned by positioning the plurality of connected retaining members 30.

[0071] The retaining interface 32 of each retaining member 30 is supported by the body 31 of the retaining member 30. The upper 34 and lower 35 parts of the retaining member 30 are generally rectangular in shape and have a longitudinally oriented recess in at least the front wall. This recess 320 forms the retaining interface 32 that allows to receive, directly or indirectly, at least one of the fastening means 110. This support forms a receiving cradle for the shaft-like fastening means 110, in particular the shaft itself, minimizing relative transverse movement between the associated end portion and the splicing device 100. Preferably, the recess 320 matches the shape of the cable it holds, for example at a 1 / 3 angle.

[0072] The upper 34 and lower 35 parts of the same retaining member 30 are provided with tips oriented towards and configured to penetrate the end portions 11, 12 that support it, to help secure the retaining member 30 within the body 2 of the end portions 11, 12, which are in addition to the anchor member 40 that passes through the cable 4.

[0073] Each retaining member 30 comprises two anchor members 40 spaced apart by a distance d sufficient to ensure securement to two adjacent reinforcing cables 4. This distance d is equal to the distance separating the central axes of the two cables 4 from the corresponding end portions 11, 12. The integral row of retaining members 30 is configured such that each retaining member 30 is connected to another retaining member 30 by a flexible connection 300 to promote trafting, i.e., transverse flexibility, of the conveyor belt. Such advantages are further enhanced if these connections, whether flexible 300 or not, are broken or separated during operations to separate the retaining members 30, for example, after the step of securing the anchor members 40, or more generally, after the step of installing the frame 20.

[0074] FIG. 11 shows a top perspective view of an assembled splice according to a seventh embodiment in which a row of fastening means 110 is arranged alongside each longitudinal end of the splicing device 100, with a protective border protruding longitudinally from the first interface 113, in a manner similar to that of the first embodiment, as with the sixth embodiment.

[0075] 12 and 13 show views of support plates 21, 22 for splice 10 according to an eighth embodiment.

[0076] This embodiment comprises retaining members 30 equivalent to those of the sixth and seventh embodiments. However, this embodiment differs substantially from those embodiments in that the retaining members 30 are not connected together in a continuous row extending transversely across the width of the conveyor belt 1, but instead have support plates 21, 22 comprising a plurality of retaining members 30. The support plates 21, 22 are configured to extend longitudinally to cover the same sides of the first and second end portions 11, 12 of the conveyor belt 1 over at least a predetermined transverse portion, or even the entire length, of the conveyor belt incorporating a portion of the retaining members 30, so as to enable pre-positioning of the retaining members 30 when the frame 20 is installed. In particular, the frame 20 is upper support plates 21 in the form of belts, each of which comprises a plurality of upper parts 34 of retaining members 30 distributed in a specific pattern on or within the support plate; a lower support plate 22 in the form of a belt, with the lower parts 35 of the retaining members 30 arranged in the same pattern as the upper parts 34 of the upper support plate 21, superimposed vertically to allow alignment of the recesses 310 with the anchor interfaces 311, for screwing together;

[0077] The predetermined pattern may be configured to obtain retention members 30 arranged in longitudinal and / or transverse alignment, singly or in several grooves, in pairs, in transverse alignment, i.e., in rows with a longitudinal offset such as a staggered pattern, etc. Alternative configurations of inserts 34, 35 facilitate troughing of the splice and also facilitate wrapping around the deflection rollers of the conveyor without causing breakage.

[0078] The support plates 21, 22 are preferably formed from the same material as the conveyor belt body 1. However, this can be varied and the plates can have bodies made of a flexible material, more generally an elastomer or synthetic material. In this embodiment, the inserts 34, 35 are pre-molded from rubber, polyurethane (PU), or any other material.

[0079] In this way, the frame is in the form of support plates 21, 22 that can be easily fixed to the end portions 11, 12 of the belt 1. Once the support plates are installed, it is sufficient to secure them with anchoring members such as screws 40. The support plates 21, 22 cover the first and second end portions 11, 12 along their entire length. However, they have a width narrower than the conveyor belt 1 itself. Therefore, to cover the entire width of the first and second end portions 11, 12, several support plates 21, 22 must be connected transversely. In this way, the support plates can be more easily manufactured. They can be made into a continuous belt or can be made in a large longitudinal dimension and then cut to the desired length. Depending on the width of the support plates, they can also be easily adapted to the width of the belt 1.

[0080] Figure 14 shows a diagram of a splice support plate 21 according to a ninth embodiment. This support plate is in the form of a longitudinal connection of multiple retention members 30. A single upper support plate 21 connects multiple studs 301. It should be noted that different materials can be used to form the support plate, such as more flexible materials like leather or fabric reinforcement.

[0081] The production of the splice 10 of the conveyor belt 1 according to the invention is therefore particularly simple and generally comprises: - peeling off the upper and lower parts of the conveyor belt body 2 at the first end portion 11 and the second end portion 12 of the conveyor belt 1 to obtain a bare central layer 1A at the end of the cable; - installing at least one splice frame 20 attached to the first end portion 11 and the second end portion 12 of the conveyor belt 1; - installing a splicing device 100 to join the first and second end portions 11, 12 of the conveyor belt 1.

[0082] In summary, such a splice allows the preparation of the end portion to be limited to removing the coating from the top and bottom of the belt, resulting in a thinned end corresponding to the central layer, thus facilitating implementation.

[0083] The use of such a frame according to the invention makes it possible to create or recreate a weft by the retaining interface 32 between each cable, or in another configuration, for example between every other cable, by crossing the cables with the aid of the anchoring members 40, due to the flexibility of the connection and depending on the belt strength.

[0084] Furthermore, such a frame is compatible with the use of splicing devices known in the prior art, facilitating supply to users and reducing costs.

[0085] During assembly, clamping the splice's fixing means 110 to the end portion with the cable is sufficient to fix the frame to the end portion of the conveyor belt, so that when tension is applied to the conveyor belt, the fixed connection abuts against the frame created with a retaining interface, limiting slippage.

[0086] The clamping force of the securing means 110 of the splicing device 100 combined with the support of the screws on the frame provides a connection sufficient to resist the desired forces.

[0087] Of course, the invention has been described above by way of example, and it is understood that those skilled in the art can implement different embodiments of the invention without going beyond the scope of the invention.

[0088] For example, it will be understood that fixing or anchoring means other than screws may be used while providing the same function. Furthermore, the vertical orientation of the retaining members and / or fixing means may be different, in which case the directions are reversed with respect to the drawings.

[0089] Finally, the term "transverse" in relation to the edges of the frame or splice plate is understood to extend from one side of the conveyor belt to the other and across its width once the splicing device is assembled with the end of the belt. This means that the invention is not limited to configurations of the splice plate perpendicular to the conveyor belt, and the splice can entirely have an angle different from 90° with respect to the longitudinal axis.

[0090] It is emphasized that all of the features, even if only described in relation to other identified features, may be combined with other features or feature groups disclosed herein, both individually and in any combination, as will be apparent to one skilled in the art from this description, the drawings and the appended claims, provided that this is not expressly excluded or that such a combination is impossible or meaningless due to the technical situation.

Claims

1. A splice (10) frame (20) intended to be attached to at least a first end portion (11) of a conveyor belt (1) of the type comprising a body (2) made of a flexible material, in which a reinforcement (3) including a cable (4) is housed, said frame (20) comprising: a retaining member (30) having at least one body (31) configured to extend at least partially transversely with respect to said conveyor belt (1); and an anchor member (40) configured to engage at least a portion of said cable (4) through the thickness of said first end portion (11) to secure said body (31) of said retaining member to said first end portion (11) of said conveyor belt (1), the retaining member (30) comprises a retaining interface (32) for retaining a fastening means (110) of a splicing device (100) intended to splice the first end portion (11) to the second end portion (12) of the conveyor belt (1), the retaining interface (32) retaining the first and second end portions (11, 12) when they are placed between two splicing plates (101, 102) of the splicing device (100) fastened together by the fastening means (110), the retaining interface (32) being configured to retain the fastening means (110) when tension is applied between the splicing device (100) and the conveyor belt (1); A splice (10) frame (20) characterized in that each of the anchor members (40) comprises a shaft configured to pass through the first end portion (11).

2. The splice (10) frame (20) of claim 1, wherein the retaining interfaces (32) of at least some of the retaining members (30) are supported by the main body (31) of the retaining member (30).

3. 10. The splice (10) frame (20) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least a number of the retaining members (30) are connected together along an axis (Y') intended to extend transversely with respect to the conveyor belt (1).

4. 10. The splice frame (20) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one support plate (21, 22) configured to cover at least a portion of the side of the first end portion (11) and the second end portion (12) of the conveyor belt (1), the support plate (21, 22) comprising at least some of a plurality of retaining members (30) arranged in a predetermined, for example staggered, pattern.

5. 10. The splice (10) frame (20) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the distance (d) separating two anchor members (40) of the retaining member (30) corresponds to the distance separating two cables (4) of the first end portion (11) of the conveyor belt (1).

6. 10. A splice (10) frame (20) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least some of the anchor members (40) of at least some of the retaining members (30) comprise studs having anchor tabs (33) located in extensions of the associated body (31), each stud preferably being formed in one piece.

7. 10. The splice (10) frame (20) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the body (31) of the retaining member (30) comprises upper parts (34, 34') and / or lower parts (35, 35') connected together by the anchor members (40), the lower and / or upper parts (34, 35) of the body (31) of the retaining member (30) being intended to come from one side or the other of the first end portion (11) of the conveyor belt (1) according to their thickness (e).

8. 8. The splice frame according to claim 7, wherein a first of the two parts formed by the upper and lower parts of the body of the retaining member comprises at least one recess, such as a countersunk hole, suitable for receiving a head of one of the anchor members, and a second of the two parts comprises at least one anchor interface, such as a threaded hole, suitable for cooperation with an anchor portion of the anchor member.

9. A splice (10) for a conveyor belt (1) extending along a longitudinal axis (X) comprising a body (2) made of a flexible material, within which are housed reinforcements (3) including at least partially axially extending cables (4), said conveyor belt (1) comprising first (11) and second (12) end portions connected together by a splicing device (100) comprising at least two splice plates (101, 102), each splice plate (101, 102) covering a separate side of said first and second end portions (11, 12) of said conveyor belt (1), thereby 10. A conveyor belt (1) splice (10) comprising at least one splice (10) frame (20) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the splice (10) comprises at least one splice (10) frame (20) attached to the first end portion (11) and the second end portion (12) and configured to hold the fixing means (110) of the splicing device (100) when tension is applied between the splicing device (100) and the conveyor belt (1).

10. 10. A method for manufacturing a splice (10) for a conveyor belt (1) according to claim 9, comprising the steps of: - peeling off the upper and lower parts of the main body (2) of the conveyor belt at the first end portion (11) and the second end portion (12) of the conveyor belt (1); - providing at least one splice (10) frame (20) attached to the first end portion (11) and the second end portion (12) of the conveyor belt (1); - installing said splicing device (100) to join said first and second end portions (11, 12) of said conveyor belt (1).

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