Dual-stacked modular roller-ball belt and conveyor

The dual-stacked modular roller-ball conveyor system addresses the limitations of traditional roller-based conveyor systems by using coupled upper and lower roller balls for flexible article diversion, simplifying actuation and enhancing operational efficiency.

WO2025117056A1 Publication Date: 2025-06-05LAITRAM LLC
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Patent Information

Application Number
PCT/US2024/051252
Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2023-11-29
Filing Date
2024-10-14
Publication Date
2025-06-05

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Conveyor systems with traditional roller-based belts face limitations in diverting articles at various angles due to the fixed axle mounting of rollers, which restricts flexibility and requires complex actuation systems for perpendicular diversion.

Method used

A dual-stacked modular roller-ball conveyor system where upper and lower roller balls are coupled such that rotation of the lower roller ball in one direction causes the upper roller balls to rotate in the opposite direction, allowing for omnidirectional movement and flexible article diversion without the need for complex actuation systems.

Benefits of technology

The dual-stacked modular design enables flexible and efficient article diversion at various angles, simplifying the actuation system and improving the overall operational flexibility and efficiency of the conveyor system.

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Abstract

A conveyor using a modular conveyor belt constructed of rows of belt modules (20) having upper roller balls (36) atop lower roller balls (38) so that as the lower roller balls rotate in one direction, the upper roller balls rotate in the opposite direction. The lower roller balls (38), which, like the upper roller balls, can rotate omnidirectionally, are caused to rotate selectively by an actuation system (92, 94, 104, 114, 120) below the belt in a carryway. The actuation system is realized by linear-motor-driven movers (94), cross belts (104, 114), or inline belts (120) having surfaces that are selectively put into contact with the lower roller balls (38) to cause them to rotate in one direction and the upper roller balls (36) to rotate in the opposite direction and move each article conveyed atop the upper roller balls (36) in a selected way.
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