GUIDERAIL AND RELATED METHODS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63/406,363, filed September 14, 2022, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the article conveying arts and, in particular, to a mount for an adjustable conveyor belt guiderail and related methods.

Background

[0002] Conveyors typically have guiderails positioned along each side of the conveyor chain or belt to guide an article along a conveying path. Articles travel between the guiderails, which are positioned to ensure that the articles remain on the conveying path. When a larger or smaller article is conveyed, or the width of the conveying path otherwise needs to be adjusted to accommodate an increased or reduced article flow, the guiderails must be adjusted to fit the situation. [0003] Conventional guiderail adjustment systems use cable driven supports that extend and retract to alter the distance between the guiderails. Although these systems can prove useful, they come with some drawbacks, including the build-up of slack in the cable(s) used to drive the supports. This can be particularly problematic around arcuate paths (also referred to as arcuate bends, sections, portions or comers of the smooth bending, rounded type) of the conveyor.

[0004] Accordingly, a need is identified for an arrangement that overcomes the foregoing limitations and possibly other problems that have yet to be realized.

Summary

[0005] According to a first aspect of the disclosure, an apparatus for supporting a guiderail for guiding one or more articles conveyed in a conveying direction along a conveying path of a conveyor is provided. The apparatus comprises at least one support rail extending along an arcuate portion of the conveying path, such as defined by a curved section of the conveyor. The at least one support rail comprises at least one linearly straight section, and a support is mounted to the at least one support rail is provided for supporting the guiderail. The support is adapted for advancing and retracting the guiderail relative to the conveyor in a direction transverse to the conveying direction. [0006] In one embodiment, the at least one linearly straight section extends along the entirety of the arcuate portion of the conveying path. The support comprises a pair of shuttles adapted for moving along the at least one linearly straight section. The pair of shuttles may move along a linearly straight path in coaxial relation with one another.

[0007] The at least one support rail may include a plurality of linearly straight sections arranged in oblique relation with one another. The support may comprise a pair of shuttles. One of the pair of shuttles may be adapted for moving along one of the plurality of linearly straight sections and the other shuttle is moveable along another of the plurality of linearly straight sections.

[0008] In this or another embodiment, the at least one support rail includes inner and outer support rails spaced from one another, with at least one of the inner and outer support rails including the linearly straight section. The inner support rail and the outer support rail may extend along substantially the same distance. The inner support rail may be entirely arcuate and the outer support rail comprises the linearly straight section.

[0009] According to a further aspect of the disclosure, an apparatus for supporting a guiderail for guiding one or more articles conveyed along a conveyor having a conveying path in a conveying direction is provided. The apparatus comprises an inner support rail extending along an arcuate portion of the conveying path. An outer support rail extends along the arcuate portion of the conveying path in spaced relation from the inner support rail. At least one movable inner support is mounted to the inner support rail for supporting and adjusting a position of the guiderail relative to the conveyor in a direction transverse to the conveying direction. At least one movable outer support is mounted to the outer support rail for supporting and adjusting the position of the guiderail relative to the conveyor in a direction transverse to the conveying direction. At least one of the inner support rail and the outer support rail comprises a linearly straight section extending along the arcuate portion. [0010] In one embodiment, the outer support rail has the at least one linearly straight section extending along the arcuate portion along which the at least one movable outer support moves. In one example, the inner support rail does not have the at least one linearly straight section extending along the arcuate portion along which the at least one movable inner support moves. The at least one linearly straight section may extend along the entirety of the arcuate portion.

[0011] The support may comprise a pair of shuttles moveable along the at least one linearly straight section. The pair of shuttles may be adapted to move along a linearly straight path toward and away from one another in coaxial relation with one another. In any embodiment, the at least one linearly straight section may include a plurality of linearly straight sections arranged in oblique relation with one another. In the case where the moveable support comprises a pair of shuttles, one of the pair of shuttles may be moveable along one of the plurality of linearly straight sections and the other of the pair of shuttles may move along another of the linearly straight sections.

[0012] In any embodiment, the support may comprise a linkage connected to the guiderail. The linkage may comprises a pair of pivoting arms, each of which may be connected to a shuttle movably mounted on the support rail. The arms may thus pivot during the advance and retraction of the guiderail, and the shuttles may be adjusted or moved along the support rail in the conveying direction to control the relative amount of advance or retraction of the guiderail.

[0013] According to another aspect of the disclosure, a method of adjusting a position of a guiderail for guiding one or more articles conveyed along an arcuate path of a conveyor is provided. The method comprises mounting a support supporting the guiderail along a linearly straight portion of a support rail extending along the arcuate path to move the guiderail generally transversely to a conveying direction of the conveyor.

[0014] In one embodiment, the method comprises providing the support with a pair of shuttles configured to move toward and away from one another along a linearly straight path in coaxial relation with one another. The method may further include providing the support with a pair of shuttles configured to move toward and away from one another along separate linearly straight paths extending in oblique relation with one another.

Brief Description of the Drawing Figures

[0015] The accompanying drawing figures incorporated herein and forming a part of the specification, illustrate several aspects of the disclosed inventions and, together with the textual description, serve to explain certain principles thereof. In the drawing figures:

[0016] Figure l is a top perspective view of one embodiment of a single conveyor guiderail adjuster according to one embodiment of the disclosure;

[0017] Figure 2 is a bottom perspective view of the adjuster of Figure 1;

[0018] Figures 3, 4, and 5 are top, rear, and bottom views of the Figure 1 adjuster;

[0019] Figure 6 is a front view of the adjuster of Figure 1;

[0020] Figures 7 and 8 are left-side and right-side views of the Figure 1 adjuster;

[0021] Figure 9 is a perspective view of a collapsible guiderail support forming part of the adjuster of Figures 1-8; [0022] Figure 9A is an exploded view illustrating a manner of connecting an arm to one of the supports (shuttles) for pivoting movement;

[0023] Figure 9B is a top view of the assembled configuration of Figure 9A;

[0024] Figure 9C is a cross-sectional view of the arrangement of Figure 9A when assembled, taken along line 9C-9C of Figure 9B;

[0025] Figures 10 and 11 are top views of the support of Figure 9 in an extended and retracted condition;

[0026] Figure 12 is a rear view of the support of Figure 9;

[0027] Figure 13 is a perspective view of a shuttle for connecting to the support for manual operation;

[0028] Figure 14 is an exploded perspective view of the shuttle of Figure 13;

[0029] Figure 15 is a perspective view of a shuttle for connecting to the support for automated operation;

[0030] Figure 16 is an exploded perspective view of the shuttle of Figure 15;

[0031] Figure 16A is a partially cross-sectional top view of the shuttle of Figure 15;

[0032] Figure 17 is a side view illustrating aspects of an actuator for actuating the adjustable guiderail support;

[0033] Figure 18 illustrates a tensioner for a cable forming part of the actuator for the adjustable support;

[0034] Figures 19, 20, 21, 22 and 23 illustrate alternative forms of actuators;

[0035] Figures 24, 25, and 26 illustrate a system comprising two opposed guiderails associated with a plurality of adjusters;

[0036] Figures 24A, 25A, and 26A illustrate another system comprising two opposed guiderails associated with a plurality of adjusters;

[0037] Figures 27 and 28 illustrate various aspects of an extendable guiderail;

[0038] Figures 29, 30, and 31 illustrate guides for guiding an endless cable along a curved section of a support rail for the adjusters;

[0039] Figures 32, 33, and 34 are schematic views illustrating the creation of various zones using the adjustable guiderails according to the disclosure;

[0040] Figures 35-42 illustrate a manually adjustable guiderail support; and

[0041] Figures 43-54 illustrate a mount for mounting an adjustable guiderail to a conveyor. [0042] Reference will now be made in detail to the present preferred embodiments of the mount of this disclosure, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawing figures.

Detailed Description

[0043] With reference to Figures 1-9, one possible embodiment of a guiderail adjuster 10 forming one aspect of the invention is illustrated. As illustrated, the adjuster 10 may be adapted to connect with a guiderail 12 for guiding articles along a conveying path and in a conveying direction D (see, e.g., Figure 19). The guiderail 12 may be supported by a support 14 forming a part of the adjuster 10, which may be flexible or collapsible (that is, able to be folded into a more compact shape). The adjuster 10 including the support 14 is thus capable of extending or retracting the guiderail 12 to change the relative position of the conveying path, without increasing the overall width of the associated conveyor in a transverse direction as a result of the adjustment.

[0044] In one embodiment, the support 14 may comprise links in the form of first and second supports or arms 16, 18 connected to each other. The arms 16, 18 are rigid in the vertical direction, but pivotally connected at their inner end portions, such as by a connector 20. The arms 16, 18 and connector 20 thus create a linkage (which may be in the form of a two bar linkage, but other forms could be used).

[0045] At the opposite end, each arm 16, 18 is connected to a structural part designed to reduce or eliminate friction or provide support or bearing. In the illustrated embodiment, this structure takes the form of a movable bolster or shuttle 22, 24 adapted to frictionally (by sliding or rolling) engage an elongated support rail 26, which extends generally parallel with the guiderail 12 in the conveying direction D. Consequently, these connections and the relative movement established allow for flexing or collapsing of the support 14 in a direction transverse to the conveying direction D.

[0046] The support 14 is also adapted to connect with the guiderail 12. In the illustrated embodiment, this is achieved by providing the connector 20 with one or more receivers, such as clips 20a, 20b (which as discussed in further detail below may provide engagement such that the guiderail 12 is fixed in position, or may be arranged to allow for relative sliding movement). As can be appreciated from Figure 6, the arrangement is such that the overall adjuster 10 has a very low vertical profile, with a height only slightly greater than the height of the guiderail 12. As can be seen in Figures 1-8, an optional cover 28 may also be provided (removed in Figure 9), which may engage the support rail 26 and provide a measure of protection for the movable parts of the adjuster 10, but without interfering with their relative movement and operation.

[0047] With reference to Figures 9 and 12, the nature of the pivoted connection of the arms 16, 18 forming the support 14 for the guiderail in one embodiment is shown. Each arm 16, 18 may be provided with a trunnion 16a, 16b, the ends of which are received and rotatably captured within upper and lower receivers 20c on either side of the connector 20. However, alternative configurations could be used, such as a simple hinge (with a mechanical pin or a living hinge). In any case, movement of the shuttles 22, 24 along the support rail 26 towards each other causes the connector 20, and hence, the associated guiderail (not shown) to move along an adjacent conveying surface in a direction transverse to the conveying direction. The movement is considered a flexible one, in that the pivoting of the arms 16, 18 relative to the connection allows flexing of the flexible joint thus formed. Likewise, movement of the shuttles 22, 24 in opposite directions (farther away from each other) causes arms 16, 18 to flex relative to each other (and connector 20) and retract guiderail 12.

[0048] Allowing the arms 16, 18 forming the linkage to reach a “bottomed out” ((3=180 degrees or more) and potentially locked position may be undesirable (especially when the actuation of the adjusters 10 is automated, as compared to manual). Thus, as can be appreciated from Figures 10 and 11, this condition may be avoided by providing the side of the connector 20 opposite the guiderail 12 with a protrusion or extension 20d projecting transverse to the conveying direction, which thus serves to define the maximum flexing of the joint formed between the arms 16, 18. This protrusion or extension 20d of the connector 20 may be sized and positioned to engage the support rail 26 in the fully collapsed position of the linkage, and thus prevent it from bottoming out and becoming locked in position. Of course, the protrusion could also be provided on one or both of the arms 16, 18, or even on the support rail 26, to achieve a similar result.

[0049] As can be appreciated with reference to Figures 10, 11, and 12, by way of being selectively extended or retracted, the support 14 creates an enhanced level of adjustability for an associated guiderail 12. The adjustments may be achieved in an easy and efficient manner, and without remarkably increasing the footprint of the overall conveyor system. Specifically, extending or retracting the support 14 allows the guiderail 12 pivotally attached thereto by virtue of connector 20 to be configured to provide a variable width conveying path for a number of differently sized articles to be conveyed. For example, when a smaller sized article is desired to be conveyed, the guiderail 12 need only be moved in an inward or inboard direction I transverse to the conveying direction D, thereby causing it to collapse in this direction (and thus causing the flexible joint to assume an acute angle a, such as for example as little as 5 degrees in the illustrated example, and possibly lower in the event the arms 16, 18 may be arranged parallel to each other)). In other words, the arms 16, 18 move from a position where the relative angle between them is greater to one in which it is reduced or smaller. This narrows the conveying path, and thus allows for a readily customizable arrangement for guiding a variety of differently sized articles.

[0050] Likewise, if it is desired to convey a larger sized article/object or otherwise extend the width of the conveying path relative to the underlying conveyor, the guiderail 12 need only be moved in an outward or outboard direction O transverse to the conveying direction D (and thereby flexing the joint so as to create a large, obtuse angle P between the arms 16, 18, which may be up to but not including 180 degrees, and as shown is limited by the presence of the extension or protrusion 20d to prevent a lock out condition). In other words, the arms 16, 18 move from a position where the relative angle between them is smaller to one in which it is greater. In all cases, it can be appreciated that no rod or like structure projecting outwardly from the support rail 26, and thus the overall width of the arrangement does not change as a result of the extension or retraction. The resulting conveyor system may thus have a smaller footprint than would otherwise be the case if transversely extending rods and corresponding mounts were utilized.

[0051] The adjustment of the support 14 may be manually or automatically done. In the manual version, and with reference to Figures 13 and 14, each shuttle 22, 24 may be provided with a retainer 30 for use in selectively engaging the support rail 26 and thereby holding the shuttle in the desired position. In the illustrated embodiment, the retainer 30 comprises a post 32 supporting an actuator in the form of a pivotally mounted lever 34, such as by way of snap-fit engagement with a clip 32a. The inside of the lever 34 includes a wedge 36, which is sized and positioned for not engaging the rail 26 in one position, but frictionally engaging it in a different position (note positions 34’ (free) and 34” (retained) in Figure 9). Opposed plates 38, 40 may be retained by a fastener F to hold the post 32 in position, and each plate 38, 40 may include a guide 42 for slidably receiving a portion of the support rail 26. The plates 38, 40 may also include apertures 38a, 40a for receiving a corresponding fastener (such as a keyway plug 16c; see Figures 9A, 9B, and 9C) depending from a proximal ends of arms 16, 18 for pivotally connecting the ends of arms 16, 18 with shuttles 22, 24.

[0052] As can be appreciated, by disengaging the retainer 30 using lever 34, the associated shuttle 24 is free to move to and fro, such as by sliding, along the support rail 26, and thereby extend or retract the support 14 and, hence, the associated guiderail 12. When a position is reached corresponding to the desired extension or retraction of the guiderail 12, the retainer 30 may be reactivated to establish fixed engagement with the support rail 26. As can be appreciated, it is only necessary to move one of the shuttles 22, 24 to achieve the desired extension or retraction of the guiderail 12 due to the collapsible support 14 created by the pivotably connected arms 16, 18.

[0053] The shuttles 22, 24 may also be readily adapted to work in an automated environment. Specifically, at least one, and potentially each shuttle 22, 24 may be adapted to engage an actuator for causing movement to and fro along the support rail 26, depending on the degree of actuation, and thus extending or retracting the arms 16, 18. As shown in Figure 17, the actuator may comprise a connector for connecting with the shuttles 22, 24, such as a flexible cable 44. The cable 44 may extend over pulleys 46 at each end (only one shown in Figure 17 mounted to one end of the support rail 26, but the arrangement would essentially be the same as shown at the opposite end of the support rail 26; see, e.g., Figure 19). The arrangement thus forms an endless loop (which may be associated with plural adjusters 10, as outlined further in the following description).

[0054] To cause the cable 44 to traverse the endless path, it may be entrained around a driver, such as capstan 48, which may be associated with a motor 50 (e.g., a servomotor) also forming part of the actuator in this embodiment. As shown in Figure 18, the cable 44 may also be provided with a tensioner, such as a turnbuckle 44a, to allow for the tension to be adjusted as necessary or desired. [0055] In this example, and with reference to Figure 16, each plate 38, 40 may be provided with a retainer 52 for selectively engaging the cable 44. The retainer 52 may comprise a clamp in the form of a pivotable cam 54 (only upper one shown in Figure 16), but could take other forms as well (e.g., a bolt with a flange for capturing a portion of the cable 44 against a corresponding surface of the shuttle). The cam 54 may be journaled on a reduced diameter end 56a of a post 56, which may be held in place by a fastener F.

[0056] In the illustrated example, and with reference to Figures 16 and 16 A, the cam 54 includes an enlarged, rounded inner face 54a for engaging and pressing the cable into engagement with a frictionally enhanced portion 55 of the plate 38, 40 (which may be identical, but inverted; in other words, plate 38 is identical in form to plate 40 in Figure 16, so it can be understood that the upper plate includes frictionally enhanced portion 55), and a free end 54b adapted for tactile engagement for movement between the hold and release position. A lock, such as a removable locking tab 58 with flexible legs for engaging a projection 58a in a snap fit engagement, may also be provided for engaging and fixing the cam 54 in the locked or closed condition, thus engaging the cable (shown in phantom line in Figure 16A). A roller or pulley 60 may be rotatably journaled at the opposite, reduced diameter end 56b of post 56 (upper when the cam 54 is at the lower plate 38; lower when the cam 54 is at the upper plate 38, as shown in Figure 16).

[0057] As can be appreciated, the cable 44 has a forward run and a return run in view of the endless loop established. By connecting one shuttle 22 to the upper run using the clamp (cam 54) located as shown in Figure 16, and connecting the other shuttle 24 to the return run using a clamp (cam 54 on plate 40, as per Figure 16A) at a corresponding location, actuation using a single actuator thus causes the shuttles 22, 24 to move toward or away from each other, thereby flexing the joint of the support 14 created by arms 16, 18 and extending or retracting the guiderail 12. The alternate run of the cable 44 that is not fixed to the shuttle 22, 24 simply engages the roller/pulley 60, and thus does not impede the relative movement.

[0058] With continued reference to Figure 16, each shuttle 22, 24 may also be provided with rollers 62 to create low-friction engagement with the support rail 26. The rollers 62 may comprise individual rollers 62a connected to the plates 38, 40 by fasteners 64 and arranged for engaging an outer face of the support rail 26, as well as rollers 62b journaled in the plates 38, 40 for engaging the inside face of the support rail 26. As can be appreciated, the spaced rollers 62a allow for a portion of the rail 26 to pass for engaging and supporting the cover 28.

[0059] Alternative forms of actuation are possible, which advantageously may use a single actuator for activating plural adjusters 10 for adjusting the width of the conveying path. For example, as shown in Figure 19, the connector, such as cable 44, may be associated with a rack 66, which is arranged for engaging a rotatable pinion 68. In view of the endless nature of the cable 44, and the corresponding connections with the shuttles 22, 24 as described above, actuation of the pinion 68 in one direction causes the simultaneous actuation of plural adjusters 10. This advances the guiderail 12 (shown as two disconnected portions with phantom portion for purposes of illustration) in the transverse direction T of the conveyor C (which as indicated has a conveying path P formed by a conveying surface (chain or belt B) in the conveying direction D, and note reduced width path P’ as a result of the advance of the guiderail 12 in the transverse direction). Specifically, rotating the pinion in a clockwise direction moves the rack to the right in Figure 19, and in view of the connection of the forward run of the cable 44 with shuttles 22 of each guiderail adjuster 10, and the return run with shuttles 24, causes the advancement illustrated. Reversing the direction of rotation of pinion 68 causes the opposite movement to occur.

[0060] The actuation of the adjusters 10 associated with the conveyor C may again be manual or automated. Thus, as shown in Figures 20-22, a hand wheel 70 may be connected to the associated conveyor C and rotated to cause the actuation of one or more of the adjusters 10 (basically, as many as are connected to a single connector or cable 44, which could be any number (2, 5, 10, 20 or more), depending on the strength of the actuator arrangement used. Figure 23 illustrates the use of a motor 72 (e.g., servomotor) for automated operation.

[0061] Figures 24-26 illustrate an overview of a possible arrangement of the adjustable guiderail support system 100 incorporating a plurality of adjusters 10 for use in connection with a conveyor having a conveying path with non-straight, arcuate paths (not shown). Opposed inner and outer guiderails 12a, 12b are shown for guiding articles (not shown) along the conveying path. The adjustable inner guiderail supports 14a, 14b are supporting the inner guiderail 12a and the adjustable outer guiderail support 14c is supporting outer guiderail 12b. Thus, if it is desired adjust the conveying path width W to accommodate differently sized articles (or groups thereof), inner guiderail 12a (along with inner guiderail supports 14a, 14b) and outer guiderail 12b (along with outer guiderail support 14c and any others present) may be moved. The movement may again be manual or automatic using a single actuator (including cable 44) transverse the conveying direction D along each support rail 26 (with an associated motor, the operation of which may be coordinated by a single controller) in order to widen or narrow the conveying path width W (note smaller width W’ in Figure 25, and even smaller width W” in Figure 26, which may correspond to a single row of articles being conveyed, such as bottles or cans). In such situations, it may be desirable to have the receivers (e.g., clips 20a, 20b) firmly engage the guiderail 12a, 12b at every other adjuster 10, but slidably engage at others, to allow for the desired extension and retraction.

[0062] In the non-limiting embodiment illustrated in Figures 24-26, the inner guiderail support 14a is provided to move along an arcuate section, also referred to as non-straight section, arcuate bend, arcuate path, or rounded corner, of the inner and outer guiderails 12a, 12b, while the inner guiderail support 14b is provided along a linearly straight section of the inner and outer guiderails 12a, 12b. The inner guiderail support 14a is supported by a first inner support rail 26a, while the inner guiderail support 14b is supported by a second inner support rail 26b. The outer guiderail support 14c is supported by an outer support rail 26c.

[0063] To facilitate smooth, uniform adjustment of the inner and outer guiderails 12a, 12b extending along the arcuate section of the conveyor, the linear distance of the respective first inner support rail 26a extending along the arcuate section can be provided being the same or substantially the same as the linear distance of the corresponding, opposite outer support rail 26c. As such, the shuttles 22a, 24a traversing along the first inner support rail 26a and shuttles 22c, 24c traversing along the outer guiderail support rail 26c can be provided to move the same or substantially the same distance with one another during adjustment of the inner guiderail support 14a and the outer guiderail support 14c. Accordingly, any mechanisms used to facilitate adjustment of the inner and outer guiderails 12a, 12b, whether mechanical or automated, such as cable(s) 44 used to drive the shuttles 22a, 24a, 22c, 24c, can be provided to move the same or substantially the same distance, thereby avoiding a build-up of any slack in the corresponding mechanisms, and thus, causing a uniform extension/contraction stroke of the shuttles, regardless of their respective locations.

[0064] In Figures 24-26, the shuttles 22a, 24a of the inner guiderail support 14a are configured to move along a linearly straight path in coaxial relation with one another during adjustment of thereof. The inner guiderail support 14a can be provided as a single guiderail support to extend along the entirety of the arcuate section, or a plurality (any numbered needed) of inner guiderail supports can be provided with shuttles thereof being configured to move along a straight or substantially straight linear path with one another. The aforementioned description of the first inner support rail 26a extending along the arcuate section applies equally to the outer support rail 26c, such that the outer support rail 26c may include one or more linearly straight segments.

[0065] Further yet, the first inner support rail 26a can be formed of an arcuate section, while the outer support rail 26c forming the arcuate section can be formed of one or more linearly straight sections, such that the travel distance along the arcuate section outer support rail 26c is the same or substantially same as the travel distance along the first inner support rail 26a. The inner and outer guiderail supports 14a, 14c can be provided as single guiderail supports to extend along the entirety of the arcuate section, or a plurality (any number needed) of inner and outer guiderail supports can include shuttles configured to move along a straight or substantially straight linear path.

[0066] In the non-limiting embodiment illustrated in Figures 24A-26A, another adjustable guiderail support system 100’ incorporating a plurality of adjusters 10 is illustrated, wherein the inner guiderail support 14a is provided to move along an arcuate section, also referred to as arcuate bend, arcuate path or rounded comer, of the inner and outer guiderails 12a, 12b, while the inner guiderail support 14b is provided along a linearly straight section of the inner and outer guiderails 12a, 12b. The inner guiderail support 14a is supported by a first inner support rail 26a’, while the inner guiderail support 14b is supported by a second inner support rail 26b’. The outer guiderail support 14c is supported by an outer guiderail support rail 26c’. To facilitate smooth, uniform adjustment of the inner and outer guiderails 12a, 12b extending along the arcuate section of the conveyor, the linear distance of the respective first inner support rail 26a’ extending along the arcuate section can be provided being the same or substantially the same as the linear distance of the corresponding, opposite outer support rail 26c’ . As such, the shuttles 22a, 24a traversing along the first inner support rail 26a’ and shuttles 22c, 24c traversing along the outer support rail 26c’ can be provided to move the same or substantially the same distance with one another during adjustment of the inner guiderail support 14a and the outer guiderail support 14c. Accordingly, any drive mechanism(s) used to facilitate adjustment of the inner and outer guiderails 12a, 12b, whether mechanical or automated, such as cable(s) 44, by way of example and without limitation, can be provided to move the same or substantially the same distance along the direction of travel D, thereby avoiding a build-up of any slack in the corresponding drive mechanism(s).

[0067] In Figures 24A-26A, the shuttles 22a, 24a of the inner guiderail support 14a are configured to move along separate linearly straight paths of the first inner support rail 26a’ arranged in inclined, oblique relation with one another. Accordingly, the shuttle 22a travels along a first straight linear path, while the shuttle 24a travels along a second straight linear path in inclined, oblique relation to the first linearly straight path. It is to be recognized that the aforementioned description of the first inner support rail 26a’ extending along the arcuate section applies equally to the outer support rail 26c’, such that the outer support rail 26c’ can be made of one or more linearly straight segments. Further yet, the first inner support rail 26a’ can be formed of an entirely arcuate section, while the outer support rail 26c’ forming the arcuate section can be formed of one or more linearly straight sections, such that the travel distance along the arcuate section outer support rail 26c’ is the same or substantially same as the travel distance along the first inner support rail 26a’. The inner and outer guiderail supports 14a, 14c can be provided as single guiderail supports to extend along the entirety of the arcuate section, or a plurality (any numbered needed) of inner and outer guiderail supports can be provided with shuttles thereof being configured to move along a straight or substantially straight linear path with one another.

[0068] Figures 27-28 illustrate that the guiderail 12 may comprise an extendable joint 74 comprised of portions, such as legs 12c, 12d, having a reduced vertical dimension (basically each equal to one half of the overall guiderail height). These legs 12c, 12d may overlie each other or overlap in a vertical direction, and are slidably received in receivers 76, which may take the form of C-shaped clamps that allow for relative movement of the legs (toward a common center during retraction of the guiderail 12 and away from it during extension). The receivers 76 thus retain the legs 12c, 12d together, yet capable of relative movement in the conveying direction during extension and retraction of the associated guiderail portions. This allows for the guiderail 12 to provide the desired extension and retraction, such as via supports 14, to accommodate a particular article being conveyed or form a particular conveying path. Hence, one or both of the legs 12c, 12d may be curved, but use of the supports 14 in connection with straight portions that are connected by the extendable joints is also possible. Figure 28 indicates that the extendable joints 74 allow for opposing guiderails 12 to extend or retract different amounts, which may occur when one is associated with an inside curve and the other with an outer curve.

[0069] Depending on the size or shape of the underlying conveyor C, it may also be desirable to provide a guide intermediate the adjusters 10 for guiding the connector, such as cable 44. As shown in Figures 29-31, this may be achieved using the manual shuttle 22 or 24 of Figures 13 and 14, which may be equipped with pulleys 60 for engaging the upper and lower runs of the cable 44. The shuttles 22, 24 may be selectively positioned using the associated retainers 30. Stationary brackets 78 may also be provided with upper and lower guides 78a, 78b for guiding the respective runs of the cable 44.

[0070] Figures 32-34 schematically illustrate a possible application of the adjusters 10 to create zones of different widths in a single conveyor or conveyor system (e.g., comprised of multiple conveyors). As shown in Figure 32, a first series of adjusters 10a associated with an underlying conveyor C may be used to provide an upstream portion of the conveyor with guiderails 12a, 12b spaced farther apart, thus forming a first zone Zl, and a second series of adjusters 10b may be used to place downstream guiderails 12e, 12f spaced closer together, thus forming a second zone Z2. The adjusters 10a, 10b may be manually adjusted, or associated with different actuators (e.g., a cable system, as described above). Later in time, as indicated in Figure 33, the adjusters 10a, 10b may be altered to make the zones Z 1 , Z2 the same width, or for zone Z2 to be wider than zone Z 1 , as indicated in Figure 34. As can be appreciated, the material of the guiderails 12a-12b may be flexible or include flexible interconnections (including the joints 74 described above) to allow for the relative movement, which is exaggerated in the schematic figures for illustration).

[0071] An alternate embodiment of an adjuster including one or more movable supports 100 adapted for being manually adjusted is described with reference to Figures 35-42. From Figures 35 and 36, it can be understood that each movable support 100 comprises a connector in the form of a shuttle 102 for engaging a stationary support rail 104, and which is connected to a guiderail support arm 106. The shuttle 102 includes a body 108 including a pair of retainers 110 for supporting a clamp 112. The clamp 112 comprises an actuator in the form of a lever 114 adapted for moving along the retainers 110, such as in a vertical direction. Movement of the lever 114 forces a movable retainer, such as a wedge 116 into engagement with the corresponding (outer) surface of the support rail 104 (compare position of lever 114 and wedge 116 in Figure 38 with raised position of lever 114’ and wedge 116’ in Figure 39 for engaging the support rail (not shown) when present in opening Q).

[0072] The lever 114 may include a receiver 114a for receiving the wedge 116 and urging it into engagement with the support rail 104 as the lever is moved, such as in a vertical direction. The lever 114 may further channels 114b for receiving the retainers 110, which may be frictionally enhanced (such as by including threading, as shown), to create a suitable retention force and hold the lever 114 in the actuated condition as a result of the outwardly directed force created by wedge 116, yet be easily releasable using finger action (note handle 114c for this purpose; that is, moving the lever 114 upwardly to force the wedge 116 into engagement with the support rail).

[0073] As indicated previously, a movable support 100 may be associated with each support arm, including a second support arm 118, as shown in Figure 40. This movable support 100 need not include any retainer for fixing its position along the support rail, since it is connected by way of arms 106, 118 to the fixable support described above. This second support 100 may include one or more rollers 120 for facilitating low-friction rolling contact with the support rail (not shown), which would be located in opening Q. However, as indicated in Figure 41, it is possible to provide each support 100 with a clamp 112, which may independently fix it to the associated support rail 104.

[0074] As can be understood with reference to Figure 42, the above-described embodiment allows for each support 100 to be independently moved along the support rail 104 to a position (such as closer to each other or further apart from each other in the conveying direction) for positioning a guiderail connector, illustrated in the form of a receiver 124, associated with the respective support arms 106, 118 (which receiver 124 may include an extension 124a for engaging the support rail 104 in a collapsed condition of the support 100 to prevent it from bottoming out). In this manner, the relative positioning of the guiderail (not shown) may be independently and selectively adjusted by a user, and using a manual approach that avoids the need for power, motors, etc. Yet, the low-profile nature of the supports 100 is retained, which allows for a conveyor system to be provided without the outwardly directed rods or the like.

[0075] Turning to Figures 43-50, one or more mounts 200 may be provided for mounting an adjustable guiderail 212 from an associated conveyor 202. The mount(s) 200 may each comprise a low-profile bracket 204 adapted to connect to the conveyor 202. The connection may be along an external surface of a guiderail 206 for guiding a conveyor belt 208, possibly along an endless path including a forward or upper and lower or return run. [0076] In the specific example, the bracket 204 is generally T-shaped, but could take other forms (H-shaped, inverted U-shaped, L-shaped), and in any case includes an upper portion 204a extending along the conveying surface, at or above the level of the conveying surface, and lower portion 204b depending therefrom for attachment to the guiderail 212. The lower portion 204b may be angled or sloped to place the horizontal portion outbound of the conveying surface, but it otherwise does not project outwardly from the conveyor 202 any significant distance (less than a few (<3) inches at most), and thus maintains the desired low profile. The vertical portion 204b may include elongated slots 204c for receiving one or more fasteners F for connecting the mount 200 to the conveyor 202, and thus allow for relative height adjustments to be made to the mount 200.

[0077] The upper portion 204a of the bracket 204 thus forms a support rail for supporting one or more of the adjusters or movable guiderail supports 10, 100 described above. As can be appreciated, the support rail formed by the upper portion 204a need extend only a sufficient distance in the conveying direction D to allow for the adjusters or supports 10, 100 to fully extend and retract the guiderail the desired distance into the conveying path, and thus need not extend the full distance of the conveyor 202. A resulting reduction in the use of materials as comparted to a full length support rail extending along the entire conveyor 202 reduces cost, weight and complexity.

[0078] The upper portion 204a and lower portion 204b may also extend in different vertical planes, as shown in Figure 47. This may be achieved by providing a bent portion 204d of the lower vertical portion 204b. In one version, as shown in Figure 47, the bent portion 204d is such that the upper portion 204a, and hence the associated support(s), are arranged closer to the conveyor 202 as a result of this arrangement. In another version, as shown in Figure 43, the bent portion 204d is such that the upper portion 204a is farther away from the conveyor 202, and hence the associated support(s) are so-positioned.

[0079] In the illustrated embodiment, each bracket 204 supports a pair of the supports 100 of the embodiment of Figures 35-42. The bracket 204 may also include one or more stops 210 at the end portion(s) for defining the maximum movement of the adjusters in a direction parallel to the conveying direction D of the belt 208 associated with conveyor 202. As can be appreciated, only one stop may achieve the desired result, since the supports 100 are connected to each other, and thus limiting the movement of one in the conveying direction limits the movement of the other.

[0080] As perhaps best understood from Figures 45-46, the supports 100 may be adjusted to move the guiderail 212 toward and away from the bracket 204 (note transverse direction T) for defining the width of the conveying path (see position 212’ in Figure 44, and note inner position of adjusters/supports 100), and then fixed into position on the bracket, such as by using the wedging action described above. Alternatively, the brackets 204 may be used in connection with adjusters 10 that are interconnected (such as by wire) and commonly actuated by an actuator (such as a motor). As can be appreciated, the adjustable guiderail may be provided on both sides of the belt 208, in which case a mount 204 could be provided on each side of the conveyor 202.

[0081] From Figures 45-46, it can also be understood that a relationship exists between the length of the upper portion 204a of the mount 200 and the extension of the guiderail 212. Specifically, the length of the upper portion 204a need only be such that the supports 100 are spaced farthest apart and located at or near the ends of this portion 204a (that is, adjacent to stops 210) when the guiderail 212 is at the fully inward position closest to the inner face of the upper portion 204a. Likewise, the supports 100 are moved toward and lie adjacent to the second portion 204b when the guiderail 212 is fully advanced towards or into the conveying path of the conveyor, as shown in Figure 46. It can also be appreciated from Figures 45-46 that the lower portion 204b for attaching to the conveyor 202 is at all times located between the interconnected supports 100.

[0082] Turning to Figures 51-54, one or more mounts 300 may be provided for mounting an adjustable guiderail 312 from or along a curved conveyor 302 (which may be a section of an overall conveyor including linear portions). The mount(s) 300 may each comprise a bracket 304 adapted to connect to the conveyor 302, such as along an external surface of a guiderail 306 for guiding a conveyor belt 308, possibly along an endless path including a forward or upper and lower or return run. In the specific example, the bracket 304 is generally T-shaped, and includes an upper portion 305 extending at or above the level of the conveying surface, and lower vertical portion 307 depending therefrom for attachment to the guiderail 312 (which may be angled or sloped to place the horizontal portion outbound of the conveying surface, but otherwise does not project outwardly from the conveyor 302 any significant distance (less than a few (<3) inches at most), and thus maintains the desired low profile). The vertical portion 307 may include slots 307a for receiving one or more fasteners F for connecting the mount 300 to the conveyor 302.

[0083] In view of the curved nature of the conveyor 302, the upper portion 305 of the bracket 304 includes a matching curve or contour. This may be achieved by providing two bent portions 305a, 305b, which may project outwardly at an angle in opposite directions from a central portion 305c generally tangent to the curve of the conveyor 302. The upper portion 305 of the bracket 304 and, in particular, the bent portions 305a, 305b thus together form a support rail for supporting one or more of the adjusters 10, 100 described above. The support rail formed by the upper portion need extend only a sufficient distance in the conveying direction D (which is curved in view of the curved nature of the conveyor 302) to allow for the adjusters or supports 10, 100 to extend and retract the guiderail 312 the desired distance into the conveying path, and thus need not extend the full distance of the conveyor 302. A resulting reduction in materials reduces cost, weight and complexity.

[0084] In the illustrated embodiment, each bracket 304 supports a pair of the supports 100 of the embodiment of Figures 35-42. The bracket 304 may also include one or more stops 310 at the end portion(s) for defining the maximum movement of the adjusters in a direction parallel to the conveying direction D of the belt 308 associated with conveyor 302. As can be appreciated, only one stop may achieve the desired result, since the supports 100 are connected to each other, and thus limiting the movement of one in the conveying direction limits the movement of the other.

[0085] As perhaps best understood from Figures 51-52, the supports 100 may be adjusted to move the guiderail 312 toward and away from the bracket 304 (note transverse direction T) for defining the width of the conveying path (see position 312’ in Figure 51, and note inner position of adjusters/supports 100), and then fixed into position on the bracket, such as by using the wedging action described above. Alternatively, the brackets 304 may be used in connection with adjusters 10 that are interconnected (such as by wire) and commonly actuated by an actuator (such as a motor). As can be appreciated, the adjustable guiderail 312 may be provided on both sides of the belt 308, in which case a mount 300 could be provided on each side of the conveyor 302.

[0086] The upper portion 305 and lower portion 307 may also extend in different vertical planes, as shown in Figure 53. This may be achieved by providing a bent portion 309 of the lower portion 307. In one version, as shown in Figure 53, the bent portion 209 is such that the upper portion 305, and hence the associated support(s), are arranged closer to the conveyor 302 as a result of this arrangement. In another version (not shown), the bent portion 309 is such that the curved upper portion 305 is farther away from the conveyor 302, and the associated support(s) are so-positioned.

[0087] Summarizing, this disclosure relates to any of the following items:

1. An apparatus for supporting a guiderail for guiding one or more articles conveyed in a conveying direction along a conveying path of a conveyor, comprising: at least one support rail extending along an arcuate portion of the conveying path, the at least one support rail comprising at least one linearly straight section; and a support mounted to the at least one support rail for supporting the guiderail, the support adapted for advancing and retracting the guiderail relative to the conveyor in a direction transverse to the conveying direction. 2. The apparatus of item 1, wherein the at least one linearly straight section extends along the entirety of the arcuate portion of the conveying path.

3. The apparatus of item 1 or item 2, wherein the support comprises a pair of shuttles adapted for moving along the at least one linearly straight section.

4. The apparatus of any of items 1-3, wherein the pair of shuttles are adapted to move along a linearly straight path in coaxial relation with one another.

5. The apparatus of any of items 1-4, wherein the at least one support rail includes a plurality of linearly straight sections arranged in oblique relation with one another.

6. The apparatus of any of items 1-5, wherein the support has a pair of shuttles, one of the pair of shuttles adapted for moving along one of the plurality of linearly straight sections and the other of the pair of shuttles being moveable along another of the plurality of linearly straight sections.

7. The apparatus of any of items 1-6, wherein the at least one support rail includes inner and outer support rails spaced from one another, with at least one of the inner and outer support rails including the linearly straight section.

8. The apparatus of item 7, wherein the inner support rail and the outer support rail extend along substantially the same distance.

9. The apparatus of item 8, wherein the inner support rail is entirely arcuate and the outer support rail has the at least one linearly straight section.

10. The apparatus of any of items 1-9, wherein the support comprises a linkage connected to the guiderail.

11. The apparatus of item 10, wherein the linkage comprises a pair of pivoting arms.

12. An apparatus for supporting a guiderail for guiding one or more articles conveyed along a conveyor having a conveying path in a conveying direction, comprising: an inner support rail extending along an arcuate portion of the conveying path; an outer support rail extending along the arcuate portion of the conveying path in spaced relation from the inner support rail; at least one movable inner support mounted to the inner support rail for supporting and adjusting a position of the guiderail relative to the conveyor in a direction transverse to the conveying direction; at least one movable outer support mounted to the outer support rail for supporting and adjusting the position of the guiderail relative to the conveyor in a direction transverse to the conveying direction, wherein at least one of the inner support rail and the outer support rail comprises at least one linearly straight section extending along the arcuate portion of the conveying path.

13. The apparatus of item 12, wherein the outer support rail has the at least one linearly straight section extending along the arcuate portion of the conveying path along which the at least one movable outer support moves.

14. The apparatus of item 12 or item 13, wherein the inner support rail does not have the at least one linearly straight section extending along the arcuate portion of the conveying path along which the at least one movable inner support moves.

15. The apparatus of any of items 12-14, wherein the at least one linearly straight section extends along the entirety of the arcuate portion of the conveying path.

16. The apparatus of item 15, wherein the moveable support has a pair of shuttles moveable along the at least one linearly straight section.

17. The apparatus of item 15, wherein the pair of shuttles move along a linearly straight path toward and away from one another in coaxial relation with one another.

18. The apparatus of any of items 12-17, wherein the at least one linearly straight section includes a plurality of linearly straight sections arranged in oblique relation with one another.

19. The apparatus of item 18, wherein the moveable support has a pair of shuttles, one of the pair of shuttles being moveable along one of the plurality of linearly straight sections and the other of the pair of shuttles being moveable along another of the plurality of linearly straight sections.

20. The apparatus of any of items 12-19, wherein the support comprises a linkage connected to the guiderail.

21. The apparatus of item 20, wherein the linkage comprises a pair of pivoting arms.

22. A method of adjusting a position of a guiderail for guiding one or more articles conveyed along an arcuate portion of a conveyor, comprising: mounting a support supporting the guiderail along a linearly straight portion of a support rail extending along the arcuate portion and adapted to move the guiderail generally transversely to a conveying direction of the conveyor.

23. The method of item 22, further including providing the support with a pair of shuttles configured to move toward and away from one another along a linearly straight path in coaxial relation with one another. 24. The method of item 22 or item 23, further including providing the support with a pair of shuttles configured to move toward and away from one another along separate linearly straight paths extending in oblique relation with one another.

[0088] Any elements described herein as singular can be pluralized (i.e., anything described as “one” can be more than one), and plural elements can be used individually. Characteristics disclosed of a single variation of an element, the device, the methods, or combinations thereof can be used or apply for other variations, for example, dimensions, shapes, materials, or combinations thereof. The terms “generally,” “substantially,” “about,” or “approximately” are meant to mean as close to the corresponding condition as reasonably possible, and typically not varying from it by more than 10%, unless circumstances indicate otherwise. Any species element of a genus element can have the characteristics or elements of any other species element of that genus. The term “comprising” is not meant to be limiting. The configurations, elements or complete assemblies and methods and their elements for carrying out the invention, and variations of aspects thereof, can be combined and modified with each other in any combination.

[0089] The foregoing descriptions of various embodiments of a mount for any adjustable guiderail and related methods provide illustration of the inventive concepts. The descriptions are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosed invention to the precise form disclosed. Modifications or variations are also possible in light of the above teachings. For instance, the connector forming a part of the actuator may comprise a flexible ribbon, which may be manually actuated by a lever or similar projecting piece by which a mechanism is operated or adjusted. While the shuttles 22, 24 are shown as overlying and sliding upon the support rail 26, the shuttles could also be recessed within cavities in the support rail 26, while still functioning as shuttles. The shuttles may also take different forms, such as for example elongated flexible ribbons connected to the arms 16, 18 and designed to move along the support rail 26 or within a cavity formed therein.