SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND APPARATUS FOR IMPROVED CONVEYOR SYSTEM

摘要

The invention relates generally to conveying systems, for moving work pieces from work station to work station including conveyors which generally move at a constant speed and include load carrying units which can be coupled for movement therewith between work stations and uncoupled from the conveyor so that they will be stationary at the work stations while work is done on a work piece carried by the load carrying units. More particularly, the present invention pertains to improved systems, methods, and apparatuses for providing locomotion and control to a conveyor system including surface-mounted drive system and adjustable, automatic take-up system with floating drive chassis. The present invention also pertains to elevated conveyor systems comprising many of the same components as the surface-mounted conveyor systems.

主权项

1. A conveyor system comprising:
a conveyor track comprising a tow chain guide configured to support a conveyor tow chain and further comprising an inclined portion adapted to raise and lower a tow pin; a load carrying unit having a front tow pin assembly including a front tow pin configured to engage and disengage with the tow chain and a rear tow pin assembly including a rear tow pin configured to engage and disengage with the tow chain; a drive assembly configured to engage and propel to the tow chain without the use of a separate drive chain, the drive assembly comprising:
a floating-chassis take-up system; andan automatic tensioner; wherein the floating-chassis take-up system and automatic tensioner operate to automatically maintain a desired tension in the tow chain; and wherein the front tow pin is engaged and disengaged from the tow chain by an interior disengaging assembly, and the rear tow pin is engaged and disengaged from the tow chain by the inclined portion of the conveyor track.