Patrick B Hill

US Patent:

6966433, Nov 22, 2005

Filed:

Feb 4, 2004

Appl. No.:

10/771922

Inventors:

Michael L. Hill - Silverton OR, US
Patrick G. Hill - Willamina OR, US

International Classification:

B65G015/60

US Classification:

198841

Abstract:

A roller-chain conveyor includes a guide plate to support the load carried by the roller-chain conveyor belt, and to maintain the roller-chain on a consistent track. A guide plate is carried on top of a stiff foundation plate to resist load-induced deflection. Foundation plates desirably carry hold-down structure adapted for reception in socket structure formed in the guide plate. Operable socket structure can be formed to include a T-slot. A cooperating hold-down structure is a mushroom-shaped peg affixed to the foundation plate. Such a guide plate is installed by lowering the guide plate onto the foundation plate to place the peg into reception in the socket. Then, the guide plate is slid axially to engage a rim of the T-slot under the mushroom head. One or more fasteners is then typically placed through the guide plate and into the foundation plate to resist axial motion effective to decouple the peg and socket. Guide plates desirably are made from a plastic material, such as Tyvar 88.