Apparatus and methods to allow non-destructive removal of pivot rods in modular plastic conveyor belts

摘要

An integrally molded module for forming a conveyor belt which receives a driving force from an intermeshed sprocket is disclosed. Each of the modules is suitable for being pivotally assembled and disassembled with a multiplicity of similar modules by pivot rods to construct the conveyor belt. More specifically, the pivot rods can be removed in a non- destructive manner such that they are suitable for re-use. Each of the modules includes first and second pluralities of link ends, each of which define a pivot hole and are aligned to form first and second pivot axes. The link ends of each of the modules are joined by an integrally molded connecting structure which maintains and joins the relative position of the elongated links with respect to each other. An edge portion is integrally molded to at least one side of the module, and includes a resilient stop member which when positioned in an operating position partially obstructs the insertion of a pivot rod into the apertures defined in one of the pluralities of link ends. Consequently, to insert a pivot rod into the aligned link ends of two intermeshed modules, the stop member must be moved out of the way. Once the pivot rod is fully in place, the stop member will prevent the pivot rod from coming out during normal belt operation. However, by moving the stop member to an assembly position, the pivot rod can be removed in a non-destructive manner to allow for the repair or replacement of modules, and the re-use of the pivot rod.