CONVEYOR BELT WITH INTERMODULAR SUPPORTED SPHERES

摘要

A modular belt comprises a plurality of modules having an intermediate section having a top surface (272) and a bottom surface. A first plurality of link ends (215) extend from the intermediate section in a first direction and a second plurality of link ends (218) extend from the intermediate section in a second direction opposite to the first direction. A first curved wall (254) is disposed in the intermediate section, extends from the top surface (272) to the bottom surface and forms a first opening facing in the direction of the first link ends (215). A second curved wall is disposed in the intermediate section, extends from the top surface (272) to the bottom surface and forms a second opening (280) facing in a direction opposite to the first opening. The modules are connected end-to-end by pivot rods such that the first curved wall (254) of a first module and the second curved wall of an adjacent module form a cavity (269). At least one sphere (260) is disposed in one of the cavities (269) formed by the modules.