Continuous batch laundry system

Abstract

A continuous batch laundry system is disclosed which utilizes a plurality of longitudinally aligned modules with an inlet chute at one end and a discharge chute at the other end. Each module includes a stationary shell and a rotatably supported drum or cylinder within the shell. A plurality of support bearings are suspended from within the stationary shell and serve to support each cylinder for oscillatory and rotary movement about a horizontal axis. By utilizing suspended bearings variations in length and alignment due to thermal expansion and contraction may be easily accommodated. Individual cylinders each include a large opening in both spaced apart end walls for receiving and transferring articles between adjacent cylinders. A transfer chute associated with each cylinder is utilized to retain articles within a cylinder during oscillation and to transfer articles into an adjacent successive cylinder in response to rotation of the cylinder. Adjoining cylinders are coupled together utilizing sleeves which extend from each end wall of each cylinder. Each sleeve includes a sprocket gear disposed about the extended end of the sleeve and adjoining sprocket gears are then wrapped with a roller chain to permit rotational torque to be transmitted from one cylinder to another despite minor misalignments between cylinders.