Patent ID: 6257397
Filing Date: 2001-07-10
Classification: A21C,B65G

Abstract:
For use in a conveyor track of the type comprising a bottom wall, opposed side walls, and a top wall having a slot formed therein and characterized by predetermined interior dimensions, a conveyor chain comprising:a plurality of substantially identical conveyor links each including:(a) a first link portion having first and second ends;(b) a second link portion having first and second ends;(c) the first end of the first link portion adapted for engagement with the second end of the second link portion of the next preceding link to connect the links one to another;(d) a first connecting pin pivotally connecting the second end of the first link portion to the first end of the second link portion for pivotal movement about a nominally horizontal axis;(e) a first pair of wheels each individually rotatably supported on the first connecting pin and engaging the bottom wall of the track for supporting the conveyor chain for movement along the track;(f) a first pair or self-lubricated bearings each individually supporting one wheel of the first wheel pair on the first connecting pin for rotation relative to the link portions;(g) a second connecting pin pivotally connecting the first end of each first link portion to the second end of the second link portion of the next preceding link for pivotal movement about a nominally vertical axis;(h) a second pair of wheels each rotatably supported on the second connecting pin for centering the conveyor chain within the conveyor track; and(i) a second pair of self-lubricated bearings each individually supporting one wheel of the second wheel pair on the second connecting pin for rotation relative to the link portions.