Authors:
Kevin Vorhees
Abstract:
The disclosure proposes a solution to the safety issue on Self-checkout configurations that include both a conveyor belt and an overhanging shelf that can create pinch issues.
Background:
Self-checkout configurations that include both a conveyor belt and an overhanging shelf can pose a safety risk. When a round melon is on the belt, and the belt reverses and the melon moves under the shelf, the small gap between the melon and shelf can create a pinch hazard. This idea keeps the melon from rolling back under the shelf while allowing better use of the conveyor belt surface.
Previously, this problem was solved by added a shield over the belt under the shelf area.
Description:
Refer to attached picture. The main idea is to mount a small, hinged door to the shelf. The door is hinged along the top surface. The door can swing to the right (the forward direction movement of the belt). The door has a stop that limits the rotation of the door to the left. When an item is on the belt to the right of the door, if the belt reverses, the door will keep the item from going under the shelf. If an item is placed on the belt under the shelf, the item will move to the right normally, and the door will swing open and allow the item to move with the belt in the forward direction.
TGCS Reference 2817
