Accumulator for conveyor system

摘要

An accumulator for storing rows of articles thereon includes a frame having upper and lower shafts rotatably supported thereon. A plurality of sprockets are mounted on each of the upper and lower shafts for rotation therewith. Each of the sprockets defines a radius. An electric motor is provided for selectively rotating the shafts and the sprockets mounted thereon. A plurality of roller chains are mounted on associated pairs of the upper and lower sprockets for movement when the shafts and sprockets are rotated. Each of the roller chains includes a plurality of spaced apart pins. A plurality of link are carried on each of the roller chains for movement therewith. Each of the links has a pair of apertures formed therethrough and a pair of arcuate slots formed therethrough. The apertures and the slots having respective first edges which define a straight line and respective second edges which define a radius. The radius defined by each of the links is substantially equal to the radius defined by each of the sprockets. Lift rails and lift finger subassemblies are secured to each of the links which define shelf positions for supporting rows of articles thereon. The lift finger subassemblies are oriented at a small angle relative to the links to retain the articles on each of the shelf positions.