Modular omnidirectional hygienic conveyor belt and directional control system

A modular omnidirectional hygienic conveyor belt constructed of a series of similar conveyor belt modules that are connected by pivot pins, wherein each conveyor belt module comprises:

• a modular laterally extending body having a first plurality of spaced apart hinge eyes extending longitudinally in a first direction to distal ends having laterally extending apertures, a second plurality of spaced apart hinge eyes extending longitudinally in an opposed second direction to distal ends having laterally extending apertures;
• wherein the first plurality of spaced apart hinge eyes is laterally offset relative to the second plurality of spaced apart hinge eyes;
• wherein the apertures of the first plurality of spaced apart hinge eyes are connected to a first pivot pin;
• wherein the apertures of the second plurality of spaced apart hinge eyes are connected to a second pivot pin;
• wherein the body further comprises a plurality of laterally spaced apart corresponding sets of upper and lower arcuate sphere contact surfaces located between the first plurality of spaced apart hinge eyes and the second plurality of spaced apart hinge eyes;
• a plurality of spheres being disposed between the first and second pivot pins, wherein the plurality of spheres are captured by, engage and rotate omnidirectionally relative to the upper and lower arcuate sphere contact surfaces;
• and
• wherein the plurality of upper and lower arcuate sphere contact surfaces define for the respective plurality of spheres openly exposed opposed upper and lower spherical cap regions and openly exposed spherical segment regions therebetween, wherein openings in the body provide access for hygienic cleaning of the respective body, first and second pivot pins and plurality of spheres.