Modular, multi-orientation conveyor

摘要

Embodiments of the invention may provide a modular conveyor that includes a conveyor frame including an access opening, a plurality of conveyor buckets configured to move along a continuous path within the conveyor frame, and an access station where the contents of a conveyor bucket disposed at the access station may be accessible through the access opening. Each of the plurality of conveyor buckets may be configured to be substantially enclosed by the conveyor frame when not at the access station. The conveyor frame may include at least one channel disposed about a perimeter of the continuous path, where each of the plurality of conveyor buckets include at least one projection configured to engage the at least one channel. The conveyor buckets may be driven along the continuous path by a drive mechanism disposed outside of the conveyor frame.

主权项

1. A modular conveyor comprising:
a conveyor frame comprising an access opening; a plurality of conveyor buckets, each comprising at least one projection and defining a cavity, configured to move along a continuous path within the conveyor frame, wherein the conveyor frame comprises at least one channel disposed about a perimeter of the continuous path configured to be engaged by each of the at least one projections; and an access station defined proximate the access opening of the conveyor frame where the cavity of a conveyor bucket disposed at the access station is accessible through the access opening in response to the conveyor being disposed at the access station; wherein the cavity of each of the plurality of conveyor buckets is configured to be independently substantially enclosed by the conveyor frame including no opening large enough for intended contents of the conveyor bucket to pass through in response to the respective conveyor bucket not being at the access station.