US 6,634,491 B1 · Conveyor chain

Abstract

The invention relates to a conveyor chain (1) with a plurality of main links (2) which are moveably interconnected by connecting links (4). A first end of a first main link (2) forms a first joint (6) with a first end of a connecting link (4) in the longitudinal direction of the chain. Said joint (6) allows a pivoting movement about an axis (A), essentially at a right angle to the longitudinal direction of the chain and essentially parallel to the chain surface. The second end of the connecting link (4) forms a second joint (8) with the second end of the next main link (2). The second joint allows a pivoting movement about an axis (B), perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the chain and the pivoting axis (A) of the first joint (8). The two axes (A, B) are situated in different planes when seen in the longitudinal direction of the chain.

Claims8

Dependent claims

A conveyor chain comprising:

a. a plurality of main links each said main link made of one piece and having an upper carrying surface adapted to transport a load and a lower covering plate;
b. a plurality of connecting links interconnecting said main links to form said conveyor chain, each said connecting link being made of one piece, said connecting links having a first end connecting to a first end of an adjacent main link to form a first hinge which allows pivoting movement around a first axis at essentially a right angle to the longitudinal direction of said conveyor chain, and a second end connecting to a second end of an adjacent main link to form a second hinge which allows pivotal movement around a second axis essentially perpendicular to said first axis;
and
C. wherein said connecting links are substantially covered on an upper surface and a lower surface by at least one of the adjacent main links.

1 more element

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Conveyor chain

Life of this patent

Conveyor chain

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims8