Patent ID: 6422382
Filing Date: 2002-07-23
Classification: B65G

Abstract:
A conveyor construction, comprising:a frame including at least one structural frame member, wherein the structural frame member includes a pair of spaced apart engagement areas, each of which includes slot-type engagement structure extending substantially entirely throughout the length of the structural frame member, wherein the spaced apart engagement areas define an upwardly facing open area therebetween; a top plate-like support member extending between the spaced apart engagement areas and spanning across the open area, wherein the support member includes spaced mounting portions, each of which is located in the vicinity of one of the engagement areas, wherein the support member defines an upwardly facing support surface; and a plurality of fasteners interconnecting each mounting portion of the support member with the slot-type engagement structure of one of the engagement areas, wherein the slot-type engagement structure is capable of receiving fasteners throughout substantially the entire length of the slot-type engagement structure and wherein engagement of the fasteners within the slot-type engagement structure secures the support member to and between the engagement areas; at least one spindle extending between and rotatably interconnected with a pair of spindle mounting members, wherein the spindle mounting members are movably engaged with the frame for providing movement of the spindle relative to the frame; a pair of axially extending passages located one on either side of the frame; an elongated gear rack disposed within each passage, wherein each gear rack is axially movable within the passage and is engageable with one of the spindle mounting members; a rotatable pinion drivingly engaged with each gear rack, wherein the pinion extends through the open area defined between the spaced apart engagement areas, wherein rotation of the spindle causes movement of the gear racks within the passages to provide movement of the spindle relative to the frame; wherein the spindle is interconnected with the spindle mounting members via a rotatable bearing interposed between each spindle mounting member and a shaft portion defined by the spindle, wherein the shaft portion of the spindle extends through an aperture defined by an inner wall associated with the bearing, wherein each shaft portion includes a passage which extends along an axis non-perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the shaft portion, and further comprising an engagement member engaged within the passage, wherein the engagement member is operable to force at least a portion of the shaft portion against the inner wall of the bearing to frictionally engage the shaft portion with the bearing.