Inclined PVC Cleated Conveyor for Automated Product Elevation
This project involved the design and development of an inclined PVC cleated conveyor for automated product elevation and transfer in a manufacturing and packaging environment. The conveyor was engineered to transport products between different processing levels while preventing product rollback through the use of evenly spaced PVC cleats.
The system was designed entirely in SolidWorks using a parametric modeling approach, enabling easy customization for various conveyor lengths, incline angles, and product sizes. The conveyor incorporates a durable welded steel frame, food-grade PVC belt with molded cleats, adjustable support legs, drive and idler assemblies, belt tracking components, and tensioning mechanisms to ensure smooth, reliable operation.
Special attention was given to belt tracking, product stability, load capacity, and structural rigidity. The conveyor geometry and cleat spacing were optimized to provide efficient product transfer while minimizing product slippage during inclined conveying. Design for Manufacturing (DFM) principles were applied to simplify fabrication, assembly, and maintenance.
Project Scope:
Complete 3D design of the inclined conveyor assembly
PVC cleated belt selection and integration
Structural frame and support stand design
Drive, idler, and belt tensioning system development
Incline angle optimization for product handling
Assembly verification and interference analysis
Design for Manufacturing (DFM)
Manufacturing-ready fabrication drawings
Bill of Materials (BOM) preparation
Software Used:
SolidWorks
AutoCAD
Deliverables:
Complete 3D conveyor assembly
Individual part models
Assembly drawings
Fabrication and manufacturing drawings
Weldment cut list
Bill of Materials (BOM)
STEP, PDF, DXF, and native SolidWorks files
Skills Demonstrated:
Conveyor System Design
Mechanical Design
Material Handling Equipment
Industrial Automation
Weldment Design
Belt Conveyor Design
SolidWorks
Design for Manufacturing (DFM)
Assembly Design
Manufacturing Documentation