Plastic link for conveyor chain having optimal three dimensional mobility

Abstract

A link to be assembled to other similar links to form a chain, such as is used with conveyors, capable of movement in three mutually perpendicular directions comprises a one-piece plastic member of generally U-shaped configuration including a cross piece and two opposed arms. Apertured hubs are formed unitary with the ends of each arm, as well as at the cross piece. A first swivel axle interconnects the cross piece portion of the link to the free arms of the adjacent link, while a second swivel axle interconnects the hubs disposed at the free ends of the link to the cross piece of a third link. The first and second pivot axles are disposed orthagonal to one another thereby providing optimal three dimensional mobility to the chain. Supplemental parts such as lattice plates, solid plates, etc., are secured to the link at the hubs unitary with the arms of the link.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.