Modular Conveyor Belt With Rotatable Sub-Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing conveyor systems for packaging are prone to malfunctions, are complex and difficult to clean, unreliable, expensive to manufacture, and cumbersome, which limits their operational reliability and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A conveyor system with modular rotatable portions that are easy to assemble, providing a stable connection among sub-elements, and an actuation system for controlled rotation, which is compact and requires low actuation forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional conveyor systems with multiple separate components are used to rotate and transport products, then product rotation capability is achieved, but device complexity increases and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate components (conveyor belt, turntables, rotating mechanisms) into a single integrated conveyor belt with built-in rotatable portions. The rotatable portions are directly formed as part of the conveyor belt structure, eliminating the need for separate turntables and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining product rotation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The conveyor belt serves multiple functions simultaneously: it transports products along the conveying path and provides rotation capability through its integrated rotatable portions. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate dedicated rotation devices, simplifying the overall system.
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional conveyor systems with multiple separate components are used, then product rotation is achieved, but ease of manufacture worsens due to complex assembly requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The conveyor belt is divided into modular sections, with each section containing one or more rotatable portions. These modular sections can be manufactured independently and then assembled together, significantly simplifying the manufacturing process compared to building a complete complex system as one integrated unit.
Solution Approach 2:
By integrating the rotation function directly into the conveyor belt structure, the invention reduces the total number of separate components that need to be manufactured and assembled. The rotatable portions are formed as integral parts of the belt sections, eliminating the need for separate turntable assemblies.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional conveyor systems with integrated rotation mechanisms are used, then product rotation capability is achieved, but the system becomes difficult to clean
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable portions are designed as open structures with gaps between them and the conveyor belt body, eliminating enclosed spaces where debris could accumulate. This integrated design with open architecture allows easy access for cleaning throughout the entire conveyor system.
4Ease of manufacture
If conventional conveyor systems with separate turntables are used, then product rotation is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention eliminates the need for separate, expensive turntable assemblies by integrating rotation capability directly into the conveyor belt structure. The rotatable portions are formed as simple modular sections of the belt itself, significantly reducing manufacturing costs compared to conventional systems requiring multiple independent rotation devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular sectional design allows each segment with rotatable portions to be manufactured using cost-effective processes and then assembled, reducing overall manufacturing complexity and cost compared to building complete complex rotation systems.
5Ease of operation
If conventional conveyor systems with multiple components are used, then product rotation capability is achieved, but the system becomes cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the rotation function directly into the conveyor belt structure, the invention eliminates the need for separate turntables and rotating mechanisms that would add physical bulk to the system. The rotatable portions are compact features formed as part of the belt sections, resulting in a more compact overall system.
Data Source
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Figure 5
AI summary
A conveyor belt comprising: a belt body (13), one rotatable portion (12) coupled to the belt body (13) and configured to turn relative to the belt body (13). The rotatable portion comprises a plurality of sub-elements (17), with each one of said sub-elements being rotatably connected to an adjacent sub-element and having first opposite side portions and second opposite side portions; each one of the sub-elements (17) further comprises: one or more first annular features (19) at each of the first opposite side portions, one or more second annular features (20) at each the second opposite side portions. The first annular features (19) of a sub-element mate with the first annular features (19) or with the second annular features (20) of an adjacent sub-element forming a coupling seat (21) located between the two adjacent sub-elements and extending along an axis of rotation; one pin (22) is inserted in said coupling seat (21) formed between the two adjacent sub-elements to rotatably connect the two adjacent sub-elements (17). It is also disclosed a packaging apparatus using the above conveyor belt.