Rod retention system for modular plastic conveyor belt

Abstract

Rod retention systems are disclosed for modular plastic conveyor belts. In one embodiment the connecting rods, which pass through interdigited link ends of successive modules, each include a circumferential groove at one location, receiving a retaining clip at a position between adjacent interdigited link ends, snapped into position in the groove. The retaining clip provides easy assembly using existing tools, and a rod can easily be removed from the belt by applying sharp force on the end of the rod. In a second embodiment a rod retention system has blocking members at both ends of each module row, forming edges of the belt. A space about two or three link ends wide extends laterally from the blocking member to the first rod-encircling link end in board of the blocking member; within the space the module is devoid of link end structure which would confine the rod from the bottom of the belt. The rod is forced into a bending configuration for insertion and removal from the bottom of the belt, and assumes a substantially straightened, normal configuration after insertion. In another embodiment the belt has an opening at the location of the blocking structure, aligned with the series of link end openings, but the rod end is preformed in a bent configuration. In a further embodiment the rods each have heads on one end, and the heads reside inboard of the blocking structure in the assembled belt.