Conveyor Locking Mechanism With Protrusions And Saddle
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conveyor belt systems in the food industry face challenges in cleaning due to complex connections, numerous components, and difficult-to-clean crevices, making them non-hygienic and hard to assemble/disassemble.
Innovation Solution
A locking mechanism with two locking protrusions and a saddle for engaging recesses in conveyor components, allowing for secure and easy assembly/disassembly, and a position limiter assembly that can be locked to a conveyor frame for cleaning and operational modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex connections and numerous components are used in conveyor frame assembly, then structural strength and reliability are improved, but ease of cleaning and assembly/disassembly are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The conveyor frame is divided into modular components (end plates, cross members, support arms) that can be independently assembled and disassembled. Each component features standardized locking mechanisms with protrusions and recesses that simplify connections while maintaining structural integrity, eliminating the need for complex fastening systems.
2Reliability
If complex connections and numerous components are used in conveyor frame assembly, then structural strength and reliability are improved, but ease of assembly and disassembly are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The frame assembly is segmented into standardized modules with consistent connection interfaces. The locking mechanism uses simple protrusion-recess geometry that requires no special tools or complex alignment procedures, enabling rapid assembly while ensuring reliable structural connections through proper mechanical interlocking.
3Reliability
If traditional locking mechanisms are used, then secure connection is achieved, but hygiene and ease of cleaning are compromised due to crevices and difficult-to-clean areas
Solution Approach 1:
The design eliminates traditional fasteners, welds, and complex joints that create crevices and hard-to-clean areas. The locking mechanism uses exposed protrusions and recesses that form smooth, continuous surfaces without hidden corners or gaps where debris and contaminants could accumulate, making the entire frame easily sanitizeable.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple components and complex connections are used, then functional versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The frame components are designed with universal connection interfaces that can accommodate various functional attachments and configurations. The standardized locking mechanism with protrusions and recesses can secure different types of components (support arms, cross members, end plates) using the same basic connection principle, reducing the need for specialized parts while maintaining functional versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
A cleanable belt conveyor having a locking mechanism. A locking mechanism including two locking protrusions is used to lock a first conveyor component to a second conveyor component. The locking mechanism comprises a base plate having at least one opening for receiving a locking protrusion and at least one handle plate including the locking protrusion. A saddle extending from one side of the base plate cradles the locking protrusion and may engage a pivot post of a conveyor component.