CONVEYOR BELT CLIP

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates, in general, to a clip for use in a conveyor belt system. BACKGROUND ART

Composite belts are used in a variety of applications. The food service industry has made use of composite belts to prepare food, including passing food through a heated oven for warming or cooking. The temperature of the oven and the speed of the belt can be selected such that the food can be placed on one end of the belt, passed through the oven, and heated to the appropriate temperature upon leaving the oven. However, components of the composite belt and the oven may degrade during exposure to high heat and continuous motion, resulting in an increasing risk of contamination of food as it passes through the oven. There remains a need for composite belts which have improved performance in such applications.

SUMMARY

According to a first aspect, a clip may include a first plate, a second plate and at least one mechanical fastener connecting the first plate and the second plate.

According to still another aspect, a clip may include a first plate, a plate opening disposed through the first plate and at least one mechanical fastener disposed through the plate opening. The first plate may be substantially flat.

According to yet another aspect, a conveyor belt may include a flexible substrate having a first major surface and a second major surface opposite the first major surface and a clip attached to the second major surface of the flexible substrate. The clip may include a first plate, a second plate and at least one mechanical fastener.

According to still another aspect, a conveyor belt may include a flexible substrate having a first major surface and a second major surface opposite the first major surface and a clip attached to the second major surface of the flexible substrate. The clip may have a first plate and at least one mechanical fastener. The first plate may be substantially flat.

According to still another aspect, a conveyor belt apparatus may include a chain belt, a flexible substrate having a first major surface and a second major surface opposite the first major surface and a clip attached to the second major surface of the flexible substrate. The clip may be attached to the chain belt. The clip may include a first plate, a second plate, and at least one mechanical fastener. According to still another aspect, a conveyor belt apparatus may include a chain belt, a flexible substrate having a first major surface and a second major surface opposite the first major surface and a clip attached to the second major surface of the flexible substrate. The clip may be attached to the chain belt. The clip may include a first plate and at least one mechanical fastener. The first plate may be substantially flat.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present disclosure may be better understood, and its numerous features and advantages made apparent to those skilled in the art by referencing the accompanying drawings. FIG. la includes an illustration of a side-view of a clip in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. lb includes an illustration of a top-down view of a plate in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. lc includes an illustration of a cross-sectional view of a clip in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 2 includes an illustration of a side-view of a clip in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 3 includes an illustration of a cross- sectional view of a conveyor belt in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 4 includes an illustration of a cross- sectional view of a conveyor belt in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 5 includes an illustration of a cross- sectional view of a flexible substrate in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 6 includes an illustration of a cross- sectional view of a flexible substrate in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 7a includes an illustration of a top-down view of a flexible substrate in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 7b includes an illustration of a cross-sectional view of a flexible substrate in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 8 includes an illustration of a top-down view of a conveyor belt in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 9 includes an illustration of a top-down view of a conveyor belt in accordance with an embodiment; FIG. 10 includes an illustration of a cross-sectional view of a conveyor belt apparatus in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 11 includes an illustration of a cross-sectional view of a conveyor belt apparatus in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 12 includes an illustration of a side-view of a conveyor belt apparatus in accordance with an embodiment.

Skilled artisans appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT(S)

The following discussion will focus on specific implementations and embodiments of the teachings. The detailed description is provided to assist in describing certain

embodiments and should not be interpreted as a limitation on the scope or applicability of the disclosure or teachings. It will be appreciated that other embodiments can be used based on the disclosure and teachings as provided herein.

The terms "comprises," "comprising," "includes," "including," "has," "having" or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of features is not necessarily limited only to those features but may include other features not expressly listed or inherent to such method, article, or apparatus. Further, unless expressly stated to the contrary, "or" refers to an inclusive-or and not to an exclusive-or. For example, a condition A or B is satisfied by any one of the following: A is true (or present) and B is false (or not present), A is false (or not present) and B is true (or present), and both A and B are true (or present).

Also, the use of "a" or "an" is employed to describe elements and components described herein. This is done merely for convenience and to give a general sense of the scope of the invention. This description should be read to include one, at least one, or the singular as also including the plural, or vice versa, unless it is clear that it is meant otherwise. For example, when a single item is described herein, more than one item may be used in place of a single item. Similarly, where more than one item is described herein, a single item may be substituted for that more than one item.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. The materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting. To the extent not described herein, many details regarding specific materials and processing acts are conventional and may be found in textbooks and other sources within the art.

As used herein, the term "substantially flat" refers to an object having a flat planar surface. According to still other embodiments, the term "substantially flat" refers to a plate that does not have any curved edges.

As used herein, the terms "flexible material" or "non-rigid material" refer to a material that demonstrates elasticity. In some embodiments, the terms "flexible material" or "non-rigid material" refer to a material capable of being bent at an angle of at least 0.01°.

Embodiments described herein are generally directed to a clip for use in a conveyor belt system, a conveyor belt for use with a clip in a conveyor belt system or a conveyor belt apparatus including a clip and a conveyor belt for use in a conveyor belt system.

According to particular embodiments, a clip for use in a conveyor belt system as described herein may include two substantially flat plates connected together using at least one mechanical fastener.

FIG. la includes an illustration showing the configuration of a clip 100 according to embodiments described herein. As shown in FIG. la, a clip 100 may include a first plate 101, a second plate 102 and a mechanical fastener 103 connecting the first plate 101 and the second plate 102.

FIG. lb includes a top-down view of a first plate 101 of clip 100 according to embodiments described herein. As shown in FIG. lb, first plate 101 may include at least one plate opening 106 and may have a first plate length LI and a first plate width Wl.

According to particular embodiments, the first plate 101 may have a particular first plate length LI. For example, the first plate length LI of the first plate 101 may be at least about 0.0625 inches, such as, at least about 0.125 inches or at least about 0.25 inches or at least about 0.50 inches or even at least about 1 inch. According to still other embodiments, the first plate length LI of the first plate 101 may be not greater than about 2 inches, such as, not greater than about 5 inches or not greater than about 10 inches or not greater than about 20 inches or even not greater than about 24 inches. It will be appreciated the first plate length LI of the first plate 101 may be any value within a range between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above. It will be further appreciated the first plate length LI of the first plate 101 may be any value between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above.

According to particular embodiments, the first plate 101 may have a particular first plate width Wl. For example, the first plate width Wl of the first plate 101 may be at least about 0.0625 inches, such as, at least about 0.125 inches or at least about 0.25 inches or at least about 0.50 inches or even at least about 1 inch. According to still other embodiments, the first plate width Wl of the first plate 101 may be not greater than about 2 inches such as, not greater than about 5 inches or not greater than about 10 inches or not greater than about 20 inches or even not greater than about 24 inches. It will be appreciated the first plate width Wl of the first plate 101 may be any value within a range between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above. It will be further appreciated the first plate width Wl of the first plate 101 may be any value between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above.

According to particular embodiments, the first plate 101 may have at least one plate opening 106. In yet another embodiment, the first plate 101 may have multiple plate openings. In a particular embodiment the first plate 101 may have at least two plate openings, such as, at least three plate openings or at least four plate openings or even at least five plate openings.

According to still other embodiments, the at least one plate opening 106 of the first plate 101 may have a particular plate opening diameter PD. For example, the at least one plate opening 106 of the first plate 101 may have a plate opening diameter PD of at least about 0.03125 inches, such as, at least about 0.0625 inches or at least about 0.125 inches or at least about 0.25 inches or even at least about 0.50 inches. According to still other

embodiments, the at least one plate opening 106 of the first plate 101 may have a plate opening diameter PD of not greater than about 0.6 inches, such as, not greater than about 0.7 inches or not greater than about 0.8 inches or not greater than about 0.9 inches or even not greater than about 1.0 inches. It will be appreciated, the plate opening diameter PD of the at least one plate opening 106 of the first plate 101 may be within a range between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above. It will be further appreciated the plate opening diameter PD of the at least one plate opening 106 of the first plate 101 may be any value between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above.

According to certain embodiments, the first plate 101 may include an organic material, a metal material, a ceramic material or a combination thereof. In a particular embodiment, the first plate 101 may include a metal material. Examples of suitable metal materials include sheet metal, steel, stainless steel, iron, titanium, aluminum, copper or a combination thereof. According to still other embodiments, the first plate 101 may include a ceramic material. Examples of suitable ceramic materials include zirconia, zirconium oxide, aluminum, alumina oxide, silicon carbide or any combination thereof. According to still other embodiments, the first plate 101 may include a plastic material. In a particular embodiment, the first plate 101 may include a thermoplastic polymer. The plastic material may further include high density polyethylene (HDPE), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polycarbonate, acrylic, polyvinyl chloride, or any combination thereof.

According to certain embodiments, the first plate 101 may consist essentially of an organic material, a metal material, a ceramic material or a combination thereof. In a particular embodiment, the first plate 101 may consist essentially of a metal material. Examples of suitable metal materials include sheet metal, steel, stainless steel, iron, titanium, aluminum, copper or a combination thereof. According to still other embodiments, the first plate 101 may consist essentially of a ceramic material. Examples of suitable ceramic materials include zirconia, zirconium oxide, aluminum, alumina oxide, silicon carbide or any combination thereof. According to still other embodiments, the first plate 101 may include a plastic material. In a particular embodiment, the first plate 101 may consist essentially of a thermoplastic polymer. The plastic material may further include high density polyethylene (HDPE), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polycarbonate, acrylic, polyvinyl chloride, or any combination thereof.

According to still other embodiments, the first plate 101 may be substantially flat. According to a particular embodiment the clip 100 may have a second plate 102. It will be appreciated that the second plate 102 of the clip 100 may have any of the

characteristics described herein with reference to the first plate 101.

According to particular embodiments, the second plate 102 may include a material that is different than the material of the first plate 101. In a particular embodiment, the second plate 102 may include a flexible, or non-rigid, material. Examples of flexible, non-rigid materials include silicone materials, natural or synthetic rubbers, fluoropolymer-coated fabric composites, braided metals or a combination thereof. In a particular embodiment, the second plate 102 may include a silicone material. In still another embodiment, the second plate 102 may include natural or synthetic rubber. According to still other embodiments, the second plate 102 may include a fluoropolymer-coated fabric composite. In a particular embodiment, the second plate 102 may include a braided metal.

FIG. lc includes a side-view of a clip 100 according to embodiments described herein. As shown in FIG. lc, the clip 100 may include a first plate 101, a second plate 102, and a mechanical fastener 103. In still other embodiments, the first plate 101 may include at least one plate opening 106 and a thickness Tl. According to particular embodiments, the first plate 101 may have a particular first plate thickness Tl. For example, the first plate thickness Tl of the first plate 101 may be at least about 0.001 inches, such as, at least about 0.002 inches or at least about 0.005 inches or at least about 0.01 inches or even at least about 0.02 inches. According to still other embodiments, the first plate thickness Tl of the first plate 101 may be not greater than about 0.1 inches, such as, not greater than about 0.15 inches or not greater than about 0.2 inches or even not greater than about 0.25 inches. It will be appreciated the first plate thickness Tl of the first plate 101 may be any value within a range between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above. It will be further appreciated the first plate thickness Tl of the first plate 101 may be any value between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above.

According to certain embodiments, the mechanical fastener 103 of the clip 100 can include a rivet. According to still other embodiments, the mechanical fastener 103 may include a spacer. According to yet other embodiments, the mechanical fastener 103 may include a screw. According to still other embodiments, the mechanical fastener 103 may include a bolt. According to still other embodiments, the mechanical fastener 103 may include a washer. According to yet other embodiments, the mechanical fastener 103 may include any combination of a rivet, a space, a screw, bolt or a washer. For example, as shown in FIG. lc, the mechanical fastener 103 may include a rivet 104 and a spacer 105.

As shown in FIG. lc, the rivet 104 may have a particular length RL. For example, the rivet 104 may have a length RL of at least about 0.0625 inches, such as, at least about 0.125 inches or at least about 0.25 inches or even at least about 0.5 inches. According to still other embodiments, the rivet 104 may have a length RL of not greater than about 1 inch, such as, not greater than about 1.25 inches or not greater than about 1.5 inches or even not greater than about 2 inches. It will be appreciated the length RL of the rivet 104 may be any value within a range between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above. It will be further appreciated the length RL of the rivet 104 may be any value between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above.

As further shown in FIG. lc, the rivet 104 may have a particular diameter RD.

According to certain embodiments, the rivet 104 may have a particular rivet diameter RD. For example, the rivet 104 may have a rivet diameter RD of at least about 0.03125 inches, such as, at least about 0.0625 inches or at least about 0.125 inches or at least about 0.25 inches or even at least about 0.30 inches. According to still other embodiments, the rivet 104 may have a rivet diameter RD of not greater than about 0.25 inches, such as, not greater than about 0.5 inches or not greater than about 0.75 inches or even not greater than about 1.0 inch. It will be appreciated the rivet diameter RD of the rivet 104 may be any value within a range between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above. It will be further appreciated the rivet diameter RD of the rivet 104 may be any value between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above.

According to certain embodiments, the spacer 105 may have a particular length SL. For example, the spacer 105 may have a length SL of at least about 0.03125 inches, such as, at least about 0.0625 inches or at least about 0.125 inches or even at least about 0.25 inches. In still other embodiments, the spacer 105 may have a length SL of not greater than about 0.75 inches, such as, not greater than about 1 inches or not greater than about 1.25 inches or even not greater than about 1.75 inches. It will be appreciated the length SL of the spacer 105 may be any value within a range between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above. It will be further appreciated the length SL of the spacer 105 may be any value between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above.

According to certain embodiments, the spacer 105 may have a particular spacer opening diameter SD (not shown). In a particular embodiment, the spacer opening diameter SD is the diameter of the opening in the spacer 105. For example, the spacer 105 may further have a spacer opening diameter SD of at least about 0.0625 inches, such as, at least about 0.125 inches or at least about 0.25 inches or even at least about 0.30 inches. In still other embodiments, the spacer 105 may have a spacer opening diameter SD of not greater than about 0.5 inches, such as, not greater than about 0.7 inches or not greater than about 1 inch or not greater than about 1.5 inches or even not greater than about 2.0 inches. It will be appreciated the spacer opening diameter SD of the spacer 105 may be any value within a range between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above. It will be further appreciated the spacer opening diameter SD of the spacer 105 may be any value between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above.

According to yet other embodiments, a clip 100 may include more than one mechanical fastener. For example, the clip 100 may include at least two mechanical fasteners, such as, at least three mechanical fasteners or even at least four mechanical fasteners.

According to still other embodiments, the clip 100 may include more than one rivet.

For example, the clip 100 may include at least one rivet, such as, at least two rivets or at least three rivets or even at least four rivets. According to yet other embodiments, the clip 100 may include more than one spacer. For example, the clip 100 may include at least one spacer, such as, at least two spacers or at least three spacers or even at least four spacers.

According to particular embodiments, the mechanical fastener 103 may include an organic material, a metal material, a plastic material or a combination thereof.

In a particular embodiment, the mechanical fastener 103 may include a metal material. According to certain embodiments, the metal material may be any suitable metal material, such as, sheet metal, steel, stainless steel, iron, titanium, aluminum, copper or a combination thereof.

In yet another embodiment, the mechanical fastener 103 may include a plastic material. In a particular embodiment, the mechanical fastener 103 may include a

thermoplastic polymer. According to yet other embodiments, the plastic material may further include high density polyethylene (HDPE), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polycarbonate, acrylic, polyvinyl chloride, or any combination thereof.

According to still other embodiments, the mechanical fastener 103 may be disposed through the plate opening 106.

According to yet other embodiments, the clip 100 may have a particular length CL. For example, the clip 100 may have a length CL of at least 0.0625 inches, such as, at least about 0.125 inches or at least about 0.25 inches or at least about 0.50 inches or even at least about 1 inch. According to still other embodiments, the clip 100 can have a length CL of not greater than about 2 inches, such as, not greater than about 5 inches or not greater than about 10 inches or not greater than about 20 inches or even not greater than about 24 inches. It will be appreciated that the length CL of the clip 100 may be any value within a range between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above. It will be further appreciated that the length CL of the clip 100 may be any value between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above.

According to still other embodiments, the clip 100 may have a particular width CW of at least about 0.0625 inches, such as, at least about 0.125 inches or at least about 0.25 inches or at least about 0.50 inches or even at least about 1 inch. According to still other

embodiments, the clip 100 can have a width, CW, such that the width is not greater than about 2 inches, such as, not greater than about 5 inches or not greater than about 10 inches or not greater than about 20 inches or even not greater than about 24 inches. It will be appreciated that the width CW of the clip 100 may be any value within a range between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above. It will be further appreciated that the width CW of the clip 100 may be any value between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above.

In a particular embodiment, the clip may include an inner height 116 between the first plate 101 and the second plate 102.

According to particular embodiments, the inner height 116 may have a particular height of at least about 0.03125 inches, such as, at least about 0.0625 inches or at least about 0.125 inches or even at least about 0.25 inches. In still other embodiments, the inner height 116 may have a height of not greater than about 0.75 inch, such as, not greater than about 1 inch or not greater than about 1.25 inches or even not greater than about 1.75 inches. It will be appreciated that the inner height 116 may be any value within a range between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above. It will be further appreciated that the inner height 116 may be any value between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above.

Returning to FIG. la, according to particular embodiments, the clip 100 may further include a first lateral space 121. In a particular embodiment, the first lateral space may have a length (1), a width (w) and a height (h).

According to particular embodiments, the length of the first lateral space 121 is equal to a length CL of the clip 100. In a particular embodiment, the height of the first lateral space

121 is equal to an inner height 116 of the clip 100. In accordance with another embodiment, the height of the first lateral space 121 is equal to a distance Di . In a particular embodiment, the width of the first lateral space 121 is equal to a shortest distance between a first clip edge

122 and a first spacer 115.

In a particular embodiment, the width of the first lateral space 121 may be at least about 0.001 inches, such as, at least about 0.01 inches or at least about 0.1 inches or at least about 0.2 inches or even at least about 0.5 inches. In still other embodiments, the width of the first lateral space 121 may be not greater than about 12 inches, such as, not greater than about 6 inches or not greater than about 3 inches or not greater than about 2 inches or even not greater than about 1 inch. It will be appreciated that the width of the first lateral space 121 may be any value within a range between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above. It will be further appreciated that the width of the first lateral space 121 may be any value between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above.

According to particular embodiments, the clip 100 may further include a second lateral space 123. In a particular embodiment, the second lateral space may have a length (1), a width (w) and a height (h). In a particular embodiment, the length of the second lateral space 123 is equal to a length CL of the clip 100. In still another embodiment, the height of the second lateral space 123 is equal to an inner height 116 of the clip. In accordance with another embodiment, the height of the second lateral space 123 is equal to a distance Di In a particular embodiment, the width of the second lateral space 123 is equal to a shortest distance between a second clip edge 125 and the first spacer 115.

According to particular embodiments, the width of the second lateral space 123 may be at least about 0.001 inches, such as, at least about 0.01 inches or at least about 0.1 inches or at least about 0.2 inches or even at least about 0.5 inches. In still other embodiments, the width of the second lateral space 123 may be not greater than about 12 inches, such as, not greater than about 6 inches or not greater than about 3 inches or not greater than about 2 inches or even not greater than about 1 inch. It will be appreciated that the width of the second lateral space 123 may be any value within a range between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above. It will be further appreciated that the width of the second lateral space 123 may be any value between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above.

According to a particular embodiment, the clip 100 may be comprised of materials such that the clip 100 is capable of operating at a temperature of at least about 200 °F, such as, at least about 300°F or at least about 400°F or at least about 500°F or even at least about 600 °F.

According to yet other particular embodiments, a clip for use in a conveyor belt system as described herein may include two substantially flat plates connected together using at least four mechanical fasteners.

FIG. 2 includes an illustration showing the configuration of a clip 200 according to embodiments described herein. As shown in FIG. 2, a clip 200 may include a first plate 201, a second plate 202, a first mechanical fastener 203, a second mechanical fastener 204, a third mechanical fastener 205 and a fourth mechanical fastener 206. The first mechanical fastener 203 may include a first rivet 207 and a first spacer 208. The second mechanical fastener 204 may include a second rivet 209 and a second spacer 210. The third mechanical fastener 205 may include a third rivet 211 and a third spacer 212. The fourth mechanical fastener 206 may include a fourth rivet 213 and a fourth spacer 214.

As further illustrated in FIG. 2, the clip 200 may include a first lateral space 221 and a second lateral space 223. In a particular embodiment, the first lateral space may have a length (1), a width (w) and a height (h). It will be appreciated that the clip 200 and components described in reference to the clip 200 may have any of the characteristics described herein with reference to corresponding components in FIGS, la-lc.

According to particular embodiments, the length of the first lateral space 221 is equal to a length CL of the clip 200. In a particular embodiment, the height of the first lateral space

221 is equal to an inner height 216 of the clip 200. In accordance with another embodiment, the height of the first lateral space 221 is equal to a distance Di . In a particular embodiment, the width of the first lateral space 221 is equal to a shortest distance between a first clip edge

222 and a first spacer 208.

According to particular embodiments, the clip 100 may further include a second lateral space 223. In a particular embodiment, the second lateral space may have a length (1), a width (w) and a height (h). In a particular embodiment, the length of the second lateral space 223 is equal to a length CL of the clip 200. In still another embodiment, the height of the second lateral space 223 is equal to an inner height 216 of the clip. In accordance with another embodiment, the height of the second lateral space 223 is equal to a distance Di . In a particular embodiment, the width of the second lateral space 223 is equal to a shortest distance between a second clip edge 225 and the fourth spacer 214.

FIG 3 includes an illustration showing the configuration of a conveyor belt 300 according to embodiments described herein. As shown in FIG.3, a conveyor belt 300 may include a flexible substrate 301. The flexible substrate 301 having a first major surface 311 and a second major surface 312 opposite the first major surface 311. A clip 302 may be attached to the second major surface 312 of the flexible substrate 301. The clip 302 may include a first plate 303, a second plate 304 and a mechanical fastener 305. The second plate 304 may be in direct contact with the second major surface 312 of the flexible substrate 301.

It will be appreciated that the clip 302 of conveyor belt 300 and components described in reference to the clip 302 may have any of the characteristics described herein with reference to corresponding components in FIGS, la-lc and FIG. 2.

According to an alternative embodiment, a clip for use in a conveyor belt system as described herein may include a single substantially flat plate and at least one mechanical fastener, wherein the single substantially flat plate is configured to be spaced away and connected to the conveyor belt using the mechanical fastener.

FIG. 4 includes an illustration showing the configuration of a conveyor belt 400 according to embodiments described herein. As shown in FIG. 4, a conveyor belt 400 may include a flexible substrate 401. The flexible substrate 401 having a first major surface 411 and a second major surface 412 opposite the first major surface 411. A clip 402 may be attached the second major surface 412 of the flexible substrate 401. The clip 402 may include a first plate 403 and a mechanical fastener 405.

It will be appreciated that the clip 402 of conveyor belt 400 and components described in reference to the clip 402 may have any of the characteristics described herein with reference to corresponding components in FIGS, la- lc and FIG. 2.

According to particular embodiments, the first plate 403 may be spaced away from the flexible substrate 401 at a particular distance Di. For example, the distance Di may be at least about 0.0625 inches, such as, at least about 0.125 inches or at least about 0.25 inches or even at least about 0.3 inches. According to still other embodiments, the distance Di may be not greater than about 0.5 inches, such as, not greater than about 1 inch or not greater than about 1.5 inches or not greater than about 2.0 inches or even not greater than about 2.5 inches. It will be appreciated the distance Di may be any value within a range between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above. It will be further appreciated the distance Di may be any value between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above.

According to particular embodiments, the mechanical fastener 405 may include a spacer 406 and a rivet 407. The spacer 406 may have a distal end 408 and a proximal end 409. In a particular embodiment, the proximal end 409 of the spacer 406 may be in direct contact with the flexible substrate 401. In still another embodiment, the proximal end 409 of the spacer 406 may be in direct contact with the second major surface 412 of the flexible substrate 401.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, the flexible substrate 500 may include a reinforcement material 501. In a particular embodiment, the reinforcement material may have a first major surface 503 and a second major surface 504. In still another embodiment, the reinforcement material may include a fibrous reinforcement, fiberglass, Kevlar ^® , ceramic mesh, a plastic material, metallic material or a combination thereof. In a particular embodiment, the reinforcement material 501 may include a fibrous reinforcement. In a particular embodiment, the fibrous reinforcement may include a fabric material. In a particular embodiment, the fabric material may include a woven glass fabric.

According to particular embodiments, the flexible substrate 500 may include a reinforcement material 501 and a coating material 502 overlying the reinforcement material 501. In a particular embodiment, the coating material 502 overlies a first major surface 503 of the reinforcement material 501. According to particular embodiments, the coating material 502 may have a particular thickness CT. For example, the coating material 502 may have a thickness CT of at least about 1 μιη, such as, at least about 5 μιη or at least about 10 μιη or at least about 50 μιη or even at least about 100 μιη. According to still other embodiments, the coating material 502 may have a thickness CT of not greater than about 10 mm, such as, not greater than about 8 mm or not greater than about 5 mm or not greater than about 2 mm or even not greater than about 1 mm. It will be appreciated the thickness CT of the coating material 502 may be any value within a range between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above. It will be further appreciated the thickness CT of the coating material 502 may be any value between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above.

According to particular embodiments, the coating material 502 may include a polymer. In a particular embodiment, the polymer may include a fluoropolymer, silicone polymer, or a combination thereof. According to still another embodiment, the coating material 502 may include a silicone polymer. According to a particular embodiment, the silicone polymer may include a liquid silicone rubber. According to still another embodiment, the coating material 502 may include a fluoropolymer. According to a particular embodiment, the fluoropolymer may include polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), perfluoroalkoxy alkanes (PFA), or a combination thereof.

In a particular embodiment, the coating material 502 is formulated such that it can be used in contact with food or in medical applications, herein referred to as "at least food grade". In a particular embodiments, the coating material 502 can be at least good grade, being formed of material that can be used in contact with food, such as permitted by the United States of America Food and Drug Administration.

In still another embodiment, the coating material 502 may be washcoated. In still another embodiment, the coating material 502 may be cured. In still another embodiment, the coating material 502 may be washcoated, cured, or a combination thereof.

As illustrated in FIG. 6, the flexible substrate 600 may include a reinforcement material 601 and a coating material 602 overlying the reinforcement material 601. In a particular embodiment, the coating material 602 overlies a first major surface 603 of the reinforcement material 601. In a particular embodiment, the flexible substrate 600 may include a coating material 605 overlying a second major surface 604 of the reinforcement material 801.

According to particular embodiments, the coating material 605 may have a particular thickness CT2. For example, the coating material 605 may have a thickness CT2 of at least about 1 μηι, such as, at least about 5 μηι or at least about 10 μηι or at least about 50 μηι or even at least about 100 μηι. According to still other embodiments, the coating material 805 may have a thickness CT2 of not greater than about 10 mm, such as, not greater than about 8 mm or not greater than about 5 mm or not greater than about 2 mm or even not greater than about 1 mm. It will be appreciated that the thickness CT2 of the coating material 605 may be any value within a range between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above. It will be further appreciated that the thickness CT2 of the coating material 605 may be any value between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above.

According to particular embodiments, the coating material 605 may include a polymer. In a particular embodiment, the polymer may include a fluoropolymer, silicone polymer, or a combination thereof. According to still another embodiment, the coating material 605 may include a silicone polymer. According to a particular embodiment, the silicone polymer may include a liquid silicone rubber. According to still another embodiment, the coating material 605 may include a fluoropolymer. The fluoropolymer may include polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), perfluoroalkoxy alkanes (PFA), or a combination thereof. In a particular embodiment, the coating material 605 is formulated such that it can be used in contact with food or in medical applications, herein referred to as "at least food grade". In a particular embodiments, the coating material 605 can be at least good grade, being formed of material that can be used in contact with food, such as permitted by the United States of America Food and Drug Administration. In still another embodiment, the coating material 605 may be washcoated. In still another embodiment, the coating material 605 may be cured. In still another embodiment, the coating material 605 may be washcoated, cured, or a combination thereof.

FIG. 7A includes a top planar view of the flexible substrate 700. In a particular embodiment, the flexible substrate 700 may include a substrate opening 701.

In still other embodiments, the flexible substrate may include multiple substrate openings. For example, the flexible substrate 900 may include at least one substrate opening, such as, at least two substrate openings or at least three substrate openings or even at least four substrate openings.

According to particular embodiments, the substrate opening 701 may have a particular substrate opening diameter SD. For example, the substrate opening 701 may have a substrate opening diameter SD of at least about 0.03125 inches, such as, at least about 0.0625 inches, or at least about 0.125 inches or even at least about 0.25 inches. According to still other embodiments, the substrate opening 701 may have a substrate opening diameter SD of not greater than about 0.25 inches, such as, not greater than about 0.5 inches or not greater than about 0.75 inches or even not greater than about 1.0 inch. It will be appreciated that the substrate opening diameter SD of the substrate opening 701 may be any value within a range between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above. It will be further appreciated that the substrate opening diameter SD of the substrate opening 701 may be any value between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above.

Returning to FIG. 3, the flexible substrate 301 may be configured such that the mechanical fastener 305 is disposed through the flexible substrate 301, more particularly, the mechanical fastener 305 can be disposed through a substrate opening 306. In a particular embodiment, the mechanical fastener 305 may be adhered to the flexible substrate 301 as a secondary fastening means.

According to particular embodiments, the flexible substrate 700 may include a pattern

702 on the first major surface 704 of the flexible substrate 700. In still another embodiment, the pattern 702 may be disposed on the first major surface of the flexible substrate 700 such that it is in direct contact with food product. In still another embodiment, the pattern 702 may be formed from the coating material 502. In still another embodiment, the pattern 702 may be an extension of the coating material 502 such that it is disposed on top of the coating material 502.

In a particular embodiment, the pattern 702 may include a patterning thickness 703 as illustrated in FIG. 7B. For example, the patterning thickness 703 may have a thickness PT of at least about 1 μιη, such as, at least about 2 μιη or at least about 5 μιη or at least about 8 μιη or even at least about 10 μιη. According to still other embodiments, the patterning thickness

703 may have a thickness, PT of not greater than about 12 μιη, such as, not greater than about 15 μιη or not greater than about 20 μιη, or even not greater than about 25 μιη. It will be appreciated that the patterning thickness 703 may be any value within a range between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above. It will be further appreciated that the patterning thickness 703 may be any value between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above.

According to particular embodiments, the flexible substrate 700 can have a particular width FW. For example, the flexible substrate 700 can have width FW of at least 0.0625 inches, such as, at least about 0.125 inches or at least 0.25 inches or at least about 0.50 inches or even at least about 1 inch. According to still other embodiments, the flexible substrate 700 can have a width FW not greater than about 2 inches, such as, not greater than about 5 inches or not greater than about 10 inches or not greater than about 20 inches or even not greater than about 24 inches. It will be appreciated that the width FW of the flexible substrate 700 may be any value within a range between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above. It will be further appreciated that the width FW of the flexible substrate 700 may be any value between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above.

As illustrated in FIG. 8, the conveyor belt 800 may include a flexible substrate 801. In a particular embodiment, the flexible substrate 801 may include a clip reinforcement fabric 802. In a particular embodiment, the clip reinforcement fabric 802 may overlie a portion of the flexible substrate 801. In yet another embodiment, the clip reinforcement fabric 802 may be disposed on the first major surface 803 of the flexible substrate 801. In a particular embodiment, the clip reinforcement fabric 802 may be attached to the flexible substrate 801. In yet another embodiment, the clip reinforcement fabric 802 may be sewn onto the flexible substrate 801. In a particular embodiment, the clip reinforcement fabric 802 may be adhered onto the flexible substrate 801.

According to particular embodiments, the clip reinforcement fabric 802 may be one continuous piece of fabric or individual pieces of fabric aligned along the width of the flexible substrate 801. For example, the flexible substrate 801 may have at least one clip reinforcement fabric, such as, at least two clip reinforcement fabrics, at least three clip reinforcements fabrics or even at least four clip reinforcement fabrics.

According to particular embodiments, the clip reinforcement fabric 802 may have a particular length CRL. For example, the clip reinforcement fabric 802 may have a length

CRL of at least about 0.0625 inches, such as, at least about 0.125 inches or at least about 0.25 inches or at least about 0.50 inches or even at least about 1 inch. According to still other embodiments, the clip reinforcement fabric 802 may have a length CRL not greater than about 2 inches, such as, not greater than about 5 inches or not greater than about 10 inches or not greater than about 12 inches or not greater than about 20 inches or even not greater than about 24 inches. It will be appreciated that the length CRL of the clip reinforcement fabric 802 may be any value within a range between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above. It will be further appreciated that the length CRL of the clip reinforcement fabric 802 may be any value between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above.

According to particular embodiments, the clip reinforcement fabric 802 may have a particular width RW. For example, the clip reinforcement fabric 802 may have a width RW from at least about 0.0625 inches, such as, at least about 0.125 inches or at least 0.25 inches or at least about 0.50 inches or even at least about 1 inch. In still other embodiments, the clip reinforcement fabric 802 can have a width RW such that the width is not greater than about 2 inches, such as, not greater than about 5 inches or not greater than about 10 inches or not greater than about 20 inches or even not greater than about 24 inches. It will be appreciated that the width RW of the clip reinforcement fabric 802 may be any value within a range between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above. It will be further appreciated that the width RW of the clip reinforcement fabric 802 may be any value between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above.

According to particular embodiments, the clip reinforcement fabric 802 may have a particular thickness RT (not shown). For example, the clip reinforcement fabric 802 may have a thickness RT of at least about 0.001 inches, such as, at least about 0.002 inches or at least about 0.005 inches or even at least about 0.01 inches. In still other embodiments, the clip reinforcement fabric 802 may have a thickness RT not greater than about 0.05 inches, such as, not greater than about 0.1 inches or not greater than about 0.15 inches or not greater than about 0.2 inches or even not greater than about 0.25 inches. It will be appreciated that the thickness RT of the clip reinforcement fabric 802 may be any value within a range between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above. It will be further appreciated that the thickness RT of the clip reinforcement fabric 802 may be any value between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above.

According to particular embodiments, the clip reinforcement fabric 802 can include a reinforcement opening 804. In yet another embodiment, the clip reinforcement fabric 802 can include multiple reinforcement openings. For example, the clip reinforcement fabric 802 can include at least one reinforcement opening, such as, at least two reinforcement openings or at least three reinforcement openings or even at least four reinforcement openings.

According to particular embodiments, the reinforcement opening 804 may have a reinforcement opening diameter OD. For example, the reinforcement opening 804 may have a reinforcement opening diameter OD of at least about 0.03125 inches, such as, at least about 0.0625 inches or at least about 0.125 inches or even at least about 0.25 inches. In still other embodiments, the reinforcement opening 804 may have a reinforcement opening diameter OD of not greater than about 0.25 inches, such as, not greater than about 0.5 inches or not greater than about 0.75 inches or even not greater than about 1.0 inch. It will be appreciated that the reinforcement diameter OD of the reinforcement opening 804 may be any value within a range between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above. It will be further appreciated that the reinforcement diameter OD of the reinforcement opening 804 may be any value between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above. According to particular embodiments, the reinforcement opening diameter OD may be equal to the plate opening diameter PD such that the reinforcement opening may be aligned with a plate opening. In yet another embodiment, the reinforcement opening diameter OD may be equal to the substrate opening diameter SD such that the reinforcement opening may be aligned with a substrate opening.

Returning again to FIG. 3, the flexible substrate 301 may be configured such that the mechanical fastener 305 is disposed through the reinforcement fabric 313. In a particular embodiment, the mechanical fastener 305 can be disposed through a reinforcement opening 314. In a particular embodiment, the mechanical fastener 305 may be adhered to the reinforcement fabric 313 as a secondary fastening means.

As illustrated in FIG. 9, the conveyor belt 900 may have a clip 901 attached to the second major surface 902 of the flexible substrate 903. In a particular embodiment, the conveyor belt 900 may have multiple clips attached to the second major surface 902. For example, the conveyor belt 900 may have at least at least two clips, such as, at least three clips or even at least four clips attached to the second major surface 902 of the flexible substrate 903.

According to particular embodiments, the conveyor belt 900 may have a CL:FW ratio, where CL is equal to the length of the clip 901 and where FW is equal to the width of the flexible substrate 903. For example, the conveyor belt 900 may have a CL:FW ratio of least 1: 100, such as, at least 1:50 or at least 1:25 or even at least about 1: 10.

It will be appreciated that the clip 901 and the flexible substrate 903 of conveyor belt 900 and components described in reference to the clip 901 and flexible substrate 903 may have any of the characteristics described herein with reference to corresponding components in FIGS. 1-8.

According to particular embodiment, a conveyor belt apparatus may include a chain belt, a flexible substrate having a first major surface and a second major surface opposite the first major surface and a clip attached to the second major surface of the flexible substrate.

The clip may be attached to the chain belt. The clip may include a first plate, a second plate, and at least one mechanical fastener.

As illustrated in FIG. 9, the conveyor belt 900 can include a chain belt 904 disposed parallel to the second major surface 902 of the flexible substrate 903. In a particular embodiment, the chain belt 904 may be composed of wire bars.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 10, a conveyor belt apparatus 1000 may have a chain belt 1007, a flexible substrate 1001, and a clip 1002. In a particular embodiment, the clip 1002 can be attached to the second major surface 1012 of the flexibly substrate 1001 and further attached to the chain belt 1007. In yet another embodiment, the chain belt 1007 can be disposed between the first plate 1003 and the second plate 1004. In a particular embodiment, the chain belt 1007 may be a wire bar.

According to particular embodiments, the wire bar 1007 may have a particular wire bar diameter WD. For example, the wire bar 1007 may have a wire bar diameter WD of at least about 0.001 inches, such as, at least about 0.01 inches or at least about 0.05 inches or at least about 0.08 inches or even at least about 0.1 inches. In still other embodiment, the wire bar 1007 may have a wire bar diameter WD of not greater than about 1 inch, such as, not greater than about 0.75 inches or not greater than about 0.5 inches or not greater than about 0.4 inches or even not greater than about 0.3 inches. It will be appreciated that the wire bar diameter WD of the wire bar 1007 may be any value within a range between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above. It will be further appreciated that the wire bar diameter WD of the wire bar 1007 may be any value between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above.

According to particular embodiments, the wire bar diameter WD may have a height such that the height is less than an inner height. In still another embodiment, the wire bar diameter WD may have a height that is equal to the inner height.

According to particular embodiments, the wire bar diameter WD may have a height such that the height is less than a distance Di. In still another embodiment, the wire bar diameter WD may have a height that is equal to the distance Di

According to particular embodiments, the chain belt 1007 may be in direct contact with the first plate 1003. In a particular embodiment, the chain belt 1007 may be in direct contact with the second plate 1004. In yet another embodiment, the chain belt 1007 may be in direct contact with the first plate 1003 and the second plate 1004.

According to still another embodiment, a conveyor belt apparatus may include a chain belt, a flexible substrate having a first major surface and a second major surface opposite the first major surface and a clip attached to the second major surface of the flexible substrate. The clip may be attached to the chain belt. The clip may include a first plate and at least one mechanical fastener. The first plate may be substantially flat.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 11, a conveyor belt apparatus 1100 may have a chain belt 1107, a flexible substrate 1101 and a clip 1102. In a particular embodiment, the clip 1102 may have a first plate 1103 that is substantially flat. In yet another embodiment, the chain belt 1107 may be in direct contact with the second major surface 1112 of the flexible substrate 1101. In a particular embodiment, the chain belt 1107 may be in direct contact with the first plate 1103. In yet another embodiment, the chain belt 1107 may be in direct contact with both the first plate 1103 and the second major surface 1112 of the flexible substrate 1101.

As illustrated in FIG. 12, the conveyor belt apparatus 1200 may include a clip 1201, a chain belt 1202 and a flexible substrate 1203. According to particular embodiments, the clip 1201 may include a first plate 1204, a second plate 1205 and a mechanical fastener 1206. In still another embodiment, the chain belt 1202 may be comprised of wire bars 1209a and 1209b. In a particular embodiment, the wire bar 1209a of the chain belt 1202 may be disposed through a first lateral space 1207 such that the wire bar 1209a is disposed along an entire length of the first lateral space 1207. In still another embodiment, the wire bar 1209b of the chain belt 1202 may be disposed through a second lateral space 1208 such that the wire bar 1209b is disposed along an entire length of the second lateral space 1208. In a particular embodiment, the chain belt 1202 may be in direct contact with the first plate 1204. In still another embodiment, the chain belt 1202 may be in direct contact with the second plate 1205. In a particular embodiment, the chain belt 1202 may be in direct contact with the first plate 1204 and the second plate 1205.

It will be appreciated that the clip 1201, the chain belt 1202, the flexible substrate 1203 of conveyor belt apparatus 1200 and components described in reference to the clip 1201, the chain belt 1202, the flexible substrate 1203 may have any of the characteristics described herein with reference to corresponding components in FIGS. 1-11.

Many different aspects and embodiments are possible. Some of those aspects and embodiments are described herein. After reading this specification, skilled artisans will appreciate that those aspects and embodiments are only illustrative and do not limit the scope of the present invention. Embodiments may be in accordance with any one or more of the embodiments as listed below.

Embodiment 1. A clip for use in a conveyor belt system comprising: a first plate; a second plate; and at least one mechanical fastener connecting the first plate and the second plate.

Embodiment 2. A clip for use in a conveyor belt system comprising: a first plate; a plate opening disposed through the first plate; and at least one mechanical fastener disposed through the plate opening, wherein the first plate is substantially flat.

Embodiment 3. A conveyor belt comprising: a flexible substrate having a first major surface and second major surface opposite the first major surface; and a clip attached to the second major surface of the flexible substrate, wherein the clip comprises a first plate, a second plate and at least one mechanical fastener.

Embodiment 4. A conveyor belt comprising: a flexible substrate having a first major surface and second major surface opposite the first major surface; and a clip attached to the second major surface of the flexible substrate, wherein the clip comprises a first plate and at least one mechanical fastener, and wherein the first plate is substantially flat.

Embodiment 5. A conveyor belt apparatus comprising: a chain belt; a flexible substrate having a first major surface and second major surface opposite the first major surface; and a clip attached to the second major surface of the flexible substrate, wherein the clip is attached to the chain belt, wherein the clip comprises a first plate, a second plate, and at least one mechanical fastener.

Embodiment 6. A conveyor belt apparatus comprising: a chain belt; a flexible substrate having a first major surface and second major surface opposite the first major surface; and a clip attached to the second major surface of the flexible substrate wherein the clip is attached to the chain belt, wherein the clip comprises a first plate and at least one mechanical fastener, and wherein the first plate is substantially flat.

Embodiment 7. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, wherein the first plate comprises a organic material, a metal material, a ceramic material, or a combination thereof.

Embodiment 8. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, wherein the first plate consists of a organic material, a metal material, a ceramic material, a plastic material or a combination thereof.

Embodiment 9. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, wherein the first plate comprises a metal material.

Embodiment 10. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment

9, wherein the metal material comprises sheet metal, steel, stainless steel, iron, titanium, aluminum, copper, or a combination thereof.

Embodiment 11. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, wherein the first plate comprises a ceramic material.

Embodiment 12. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment

11, wherein the ceramic material comprises zirconia, zirconium oxide, aluminum, alumina oxide, silicon carbide or any combination thereof.

Embodiment 13. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, wherein the first plate comprises a plastic material. Embodiment 14. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment

13, wherein the plastic material comprises a thermoplastic polymer.

Embodiment 15. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment

14, wherein the plastic material comprises high density polyethylene (HDPE), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polycarbonate, acrylic, polyvinyl chloride, or any combination thereof.

Embodiment 16. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, wherein the first plate has a length LI of at least about 0.0625 inches, at least about 0.125 inches, at least about 0.25 inches, at least about 0.50 inches, or even at least about 1 inches.

Embodiment 17. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, wherein the first plate has a length LI not greater than about 2 inches, not greater than about 5 inches, not greater than about 10 inches, not greater than about 20 inches, or even not greater than about 24 inches.

Embodiment 18. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, wherein the first plate has a width Wl of at least about 0.0625 inches, at least about 0.125 inches, at least about 0.25 inches, at least about 0.50 inches, or even at least about 0.75 inches.

Embodiment 19. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, wherein the first plate has a width Wl not greater than about 1 inch, not greater than about 2 inches, not greater than about 5 inches, not greater than about 10 inches, not greater than about 20 inches, or even not greater than about 24 inches.

Embodiment 20. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, wherein the first plate has a first plate thickness Tl of at least about 0.001 inches, at least about 0.002 inches, at least about 0.005 inches, at least about 0.01 inches, or even at least about 0.02 inches.

Embodiment 21. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, wherein the first plate has a first plate thickness Tl of not greater than about 0.1 inches, not greater than about 0.15 inches, not greater than about 0.2 inches, or even not greater than about 0.25 inches.

Embodiment 22. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 3, 4, 5 and 6, wherein the first plate is spaced away from the flexible substrate at a distance Ό _\ . Embodiment 23. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 22, wherein the distance Di is at least about 0.0625 inches, at least about 0.125 inches, at least about 0.25 inches, or even at least about 0.3 inches.

Embodiment 24. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 22, wherein the distance Di is not greater than about 0.5 inches, not greater than about 1 inch, not greater than about 1.5 inches, not greater than about 2.0 inches, or even not greater than about 2.5 inches.

Embodiment 25. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 1, 3, and 5, wherein the second plate comprises a organic material, a metal material, a ceramic material, a plastic material or a combination thereof.

Embodiment 26. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 1, 3, and 5, wherein the second plate consists of a organic material, a metal material, a ceramic material, a plastic material or a combination thereof.

Embodiment 27. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 1, 3, and 5, wherein the second plate comprises a metal material.

Embodiment 28. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 27, wherein the metal material comprises sheet metal, steel, stainless steel, iron, titanium, aluminum, copper, or a combination thereof.

Embodiment 29. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 1, 3, and 5, wherein the second plate comprises a ceramic material.

Embodiment 30. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 29, wherein the ceramic material comprises zirconia, zirconium oxide, aluminum, alumina oxide, silicon carbide or any combination thereof.

Embodiment 31. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 1, 3, 5 and 6, wherein the second plate comprises a plastic material.

Embodiment 32. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 31, wherein the plastic material comprises a thermoplastic polymer.

Embodiment 33. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 31, wherein the plastic material comprises high density polyethylene (HDPE), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polycarbonate, acrylic, polyvinyl chloride, or any combination thereof.

Embodiment 34. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 1, 3, and 5, wherein the second plate comprises a flexible material. Embodiment 35. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 1, 3, and 5, wherein the second plate comprises a non-rigid material.

Embodiment 36. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 1, 3, and 5, wherein the second plate comprises a material that is different than the material of the first plate.

Embodiment 37. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 1, 3, and 5, wherein the second plate comprises a flexible, or non-rigid, material.

Embodiment 38. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 37, wherein the flexible, or non-rigid, material comprises a silicone material, natural or synthetic rubber, fluoropolymer-coated fabric composite, braided metal or a combination thereof.

Embodiment 39. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 1, 3, and 5, wherein the second plate has a length LI of at least about 0.0625 inches, at least about 0.125 inches, at least about 0.25 inches, at least about 0.50 inches, or even at least about 1 inches.

Embodiment 40. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 1, 3, and 5, wherein the second plate has length LI not greater than about 2 inches, not greater than about 5 inches, not greater than about 10 inches, not greater than about 20 inches, or even not greater than about 24 inches.

Embodiment 41. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 1, 3, and 5, wherein the second plate has a width Wl of at least about 0.0625 inches, at least about 0.125 inches, at least about 0.25 inches, at least about 0.50 inches, or even at least about 0.75 inches.

Embodiment 42. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 1, 3, and 5, wherein the second plate has a width Wl not greater than about 1 inch, not greater than about 2 inches, not greater than about 5 inches, not greater than about 10 inches, not greater than about 20 inches, or even not greater than about 24 inches.

Embodiment 43. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 1, 3, and 5, wherein the second plate has a plate thickness Tl of at least about 0.001 inches, at least about 0.002 inches, at least about 0.005 inches, at least about 0.01 inches, or even at least about 0.02 inches.

Embodiment 44. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 1, 3, and 5, wherein the second plate has a plate thickness Tl of not greater than about 0.1 inches, not greater than about 0.15 inches, not greater than about 0.2 inches, or even not greater than about 0.25 inches.

Embodiment 45. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 1, 3, and 5, wherein the second plate is in direct contact with the second major surface of the flexible substrate.

Embodiment 46. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, wherein the mechanical fastener comprises a rivet, spacer, screw, bolt, washer or a combination thereof.

Embodiment 47. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, wherein the mechanical fastener comprises an organic material, a metal material, a plastic material or a combination thereof.

Embodiment 48. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 47, wherein the mechanical fastener consists of an organic material, a metal material, a plastic material or a combination thereof.

Embodiment 49. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment

46, wherein the mechanical fastener comprises a metal material.

Embodiment 50. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 49, wherein the metal material comprises wherein the metal material comprises sheet metal, steel, stainless steel, iron, titanium, aluminum, copper, or a combination thereof.

Embodiment 51. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, wherein the mechanical fastener comprises a plastic material.

Embodiment 52. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 51, wherein the plastic material comprises a thermoplastic polymer.

Embodiment 53. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment

51, wherein the plastic material comprises high density polyethylene (HDPE), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polycarbonate, acrylic, polyvinyl chloride, or any combination thereof.

Embodiment 54. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 46, wherein the rivet has a length RL of at least about 0.0625 inches and not greater than about 2 inches.

Embodiment 55. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 46, wherein the rivet has a rivet diameter RD of at least about 0.03125 inches, at least about 0.0625 inches, at least about 0.125 inches, at least about 0.25 inches, or even at least about 0.30 inches.

Embodiment 56. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 46, wherein the rivet has a rivet diameter RD not greater than about 0.25 inches, not greater than about 0.5 inches, not greater than about 0.75 inches, or even not greater than about 1.0 inch.

Embodiment 57. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 46, wherein the spacer comprises a distal end and a proximal end, wherein the proximal end is in direct contact with the flexible substrate.

Embodiment 58. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment

46, wherein the spacer has a length SL of at least about 0.03125 inches, at least about 0.0625 inches, at least about 0.125 inches, or even at least about 0.25 inches.

Embodiment 59. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 46, wherein the spacer has a length SL not greater than about 0.75 inches, not greater than about 1 inches, not greater than about 1.25 inches, or even not greater than about 1.75 inches.

Embodiment 60. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 46, wherein the spacer has an spacer opening diameter SD of at least about 0.0625 inches, at least about 0.125 inches, at least about 0.25 inches, at least about 0.30 inches or even at least about 0.50 inches.

Embodiment 61. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment

46, wherein the spacer has an spacer opening diameter SD not greater than about 0.5 inches, not greater than about 0.7 inches, not greater than about 1 inch, not greater than about 1.5 inches, or even not greater than about 2.0 inches.

Embodiment 62. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 58, wherein the length of the spacer SL is less than a length of a rivet RL.

Embodiment 63. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 60, wherein the spacer opening diameter SD is greater than a rivet diameter RD.

Embodiment 64. The clip of any one of embodiments 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, wherein the clip comprises at least one mechanical fastener, at least two mechanical fasteners, at least three mechanical fasteners or at least four mechanical fasteners.

Embodiment 65. The clip of embodiment 64, wherein the clip comprises at least one rivet, at least two rivets, at least three rivets or at least four rivets.

Embodiment 66. The clip of embodiment 64, wherein the clip comprises at least one spacer, at least two spacers, at least three spacers or at least four spacers. Embodiment 67. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, wherein the first plate comprises at least one plate opening, at least two plate openings, at least three plate openings or at least four plate openings.

Embodiment 68. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 1, 3, and 5, wherein the second plate comprises at least one plate opening, at least two plate openings, at least three plate openings or at least four plate openings.

Embodiment 69. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 67 and 68, wherein the plate opening has a plate opening diameter PD of at least about 0.03125 inches, at least about 0.0625 inches, at least about 0.125 inches at least about 0.25 inches or even at least about 0.50 inches.

Embodiment 70. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 67 and 68, wherein the plate opening has a plate opening diameter PD not greater than about 0.6 inches, not greater than about 0.7 inches, not greater than about 0.8 inches, not greater than about 0.9 inches or even not greater than about 1.0 inches.

Embodiment 71. The clip of any one of embodiments 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, wherein the clip is capable of operating at a temperature of at least about 200 °F, at least about 300°F, at least about 400°F, at least about 500°F, or even at least about 600 °F.

Embodiment 72. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 3, 4, 5 and 6, wherein the belt has at least two clips attached to the second major surface of the flexible substrate.

Embodiment 73. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 3, 4, 5 and 6, wherein the belt has at least three clips attached to the second major surface of the flexible substrate.

Embodiment 74. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 3, 4, 5 and 6, wherein the belt has at least four clips attached to the second major surface of the flexible substrate.

Embodiment 75. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 3, 4, 5 and 6, wherein the flexible substrate comprises a reinforcement material.

Embodiment 76. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 75, wherein the reinforcement material comprises a fibrous reinforcement, fiberglass, Kevlar ^® , ceramic mesh, a plastic material, metallic material or a combination thereof.

Embodiment 77. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 75, wherein the reinforcement material comprises a fibrous reinforcement. Embodiment 78. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 77, wherein fibrous reinforcement comprises a fabric material.

Embodiment 79. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 78, wherein the fabric material comprises woven glass fabric.

Embodiment 80. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 3, 4, 5 and 6, wherein the flexible substrate comprises a reinforcement material and a coating material overlying the reinforcement material.

Embodiment 81. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 80, wherein the coating material is at least food grade.

Embodiment 82. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 80, wherein the coating material is a polymer.

Embodiment 83. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 82, wherein the polymer comprises a fluoropolymer, silicone polymer, or a combination thereof.

Embodiment 84. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 83, wherein the silicone polymer is liquid silicone rubber.

Embodiment 85. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 83, wherein the fluoropolymer comprises polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), perfluoroalkoxy alkanes (PFA), or a combination thereof.

Embodiment 86. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 80, wherein the coating material is disposed on a first major surface of the reinforcement material.

Embodiment 87. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 86, wherein the coating material disposed on the first major surface of the reinforcement material has a thickness CT of at least about 1 μιη, at least about 5 μιη, at least about 10 μιη, at least about 50 μιη, or even at least about 100 μιη.

Embodiment 88. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 86, wherein the coating material disposed on the first major surface of the reinforcement material has a thickness CT not greater than about 10 mm, not greater than about 8 mm, not greater than about 5 mm, not greater than about 2 mm, or even not greater than about 1 mm.

Embodiment 89. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 80, wherein the coating material is disposed on a second major surface of the reinforcement material.

Embodiment 90. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 89, wherein the coating material disposed on the second major surface of the reinforcement material has a thickness CT2 of at least about 1 μιη, at least about 5 μιη, at least about 10 μιη, at least about 50 μιη, or even at least about 100 μιη.

Embodiment 91. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 89, wherein the coating material disposed on the second major surface of the reinforcement material has a thickness CT2 not greater than about 10 mm, not greater than about 8 mm, not greater than about 5 mm, not greater than about 2 mm, or even not greater than about 1 mm.

Embodiment 92. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 80, wherein the coating material is disposed on a first major surface and a second major surface of the reinforcement material.

Embodiment 93. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 80, wherein the coating material is cured.

Embodiment 94. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 80, wherein the coating material is washcoated.

Embodiment 95. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 80, wherein the coating material forms a pattern on a first major surface of the reinforcement material.

Embodiment 96. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 94, wherein the pattern forms a patterning thickness PT of at least about 1 μιη, at least about 2 μιη, at least about 5 μιη, at least about 8 μιη or even at least about 10 μιη.

Embodiment 97. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 94, wherein the pattern forms a patterning thickness PT not greater than about 12 μιη, not greater than about 15 μιη, not greater than about 20 μιη, or even not greater than about 25 μιη.

Embodiment 98. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 3, 4, 5 and 6, wherein the mechanical fastener is adhered to the flexible substrate.

Embodiment 99. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 3, 4, 5 and 6, wherein the mechanical fastener passes through a substrate opening in the flexible substrate.

Embodiment 100. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 3, 4, 5 and 6, wherein the flexible substrate comprises at least one substrate opening, at least two substrate openings, at least three substrate openings or at least four substrate openings.

Embodiment 101. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 100, wherein the substrate opening has a substrate opening diameter SD of at least about 0.03125 inches, at least about 0.0625 inches, at least about 0.125 inches, or even at least about 0.25 inches.

Embodiment 102. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 100, wherein the substrate opening has a substrate opening diameter SD not greater than about 0.25 inches, not greater than about 0.5 inches, not greater than about 0.75 inches, or even not greater than about 1.0 inch.

Embodiment 103. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 101, wherein the substrate opening diameter SD is equal to a plate opening diameter PD.

Embodiment 104. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 3, 4, 5 and 6, wherein the flexible substrate comprises a clip reinforcement fabric.

Embodiment 105. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 3, 4, 5 and 6, wherein the flexible substrate comprises at least one clip reinforcement fabric, such as, at least two clip reinforcement fabrics, at least three clip reinforcements fabrics or even at least four clip reinforcement fabrics.

Embodiment 106. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 104, wherein the clip reinforcement fabric overlies a portion of the flexible substrate.

Embodiment 107. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 104, wherein the clip reinforcement fabric is attached to the flexible substrate.

Embodiment 108. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 104, wherein the clip reinforcement fabric is sewn onto the flexible substrate.

Embodiment 109. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 104, wherein the clip reinforcement fabric is adhered onto the flexible substrate.

Embodiment 110. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 104, wherein the clip reinforcement fabric has a length CRL of at least about 0.0625 inches, such as, at least about 0.125 inches or at least about 0.25 inches or at least about 0.50 inches or even at least about 1 inch.

Embodiment 111. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 104, wherein the clip reinforcement fabric has a length CRL of not greater than about 2 inches, such as, not greater than about 5 inches or not greater than about 10 inches or not greater than about 12 inches or not greater than about 20 inches or even not greater than about 24 inches.

Embodiment 112. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 104, wherein the clip reinforcement fabric has a width RW of at least about 0.0625 inches, at least about 0.125 inches, at least 0.25 inches, at least about 0.50 inches, or even at least about 1 inches.

Embodiment 113. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 104, wherein the clip reinforcement fabric has a width RW not greater than about 2 inches, not greater than about 5 inches, not greater than about 10 inches, not greater than about 20 inches or even not greater than about 24 inches.

Embodiment 114. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 104, wherein the clip reinforcement fabric has a thickness RT of at least about 0.001 inches, at least about 0.002 inches, at least about 0.005 inches, or even at least about 0.01 inches.

Embodiment 115. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 104, wherein the clip reinforcement fabric has a thickness RT not greater than about 0.05 inches, not greater than about 0.1 inches, not greater than about 0.15 inches, not greater than about 0.2 inches, or even not greater than about 0.25 inches.

Embodiment 116. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 104, wherein the mechanical fastener passes through a reinforcement opening in the clip reinforcement fabric.

Embodiment 117. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 104, wherein the clip reinforcement fabric comprises at least one reinforcement opening, at least two reinforcement openings, at least three reinforcement openings or at least four

reinforcement openings.

Embodiment 118. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 104, wherein the reinforcement opening has a reinforcement opening diameter OD of at least about 0.03125 inches, at least about 0.0625 inches, at least about 0.125 inches, or even at least about 0.25 inches

Embodiment 119. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 104, wherein the reinforcement opening has a reinforcement opening diameter OD not greater than about 0.25 inches, not greater than about 0.5 inches, not greater than about 0.75 inches, or even not greater than about 1.0 inch.

Embodiment 120. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, wherein the clip comprises an inner height between the first plate and a second plate.

Embodiment 121. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 120, wherein the inner height has a height of at least about 0.03125 inches, at least about 0.0625 inches, at least about 0.125 inches, or even at least about 0.25 inches Embodiment 122. The clip, conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 120, wherein the inner height has a height not greater than about 0.75 inch, not greater than about 1 inches, not greater than about 1.25 inches, or even not greater than about 1.75 inches.

Embodiment 123. The clip of any one of embodiments 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, wherein the clip comprises a first lateral space comprising a having a length (1), a width (w) and a height (h).

Embodiment 124. The clip of embodiment 123, wherein the length is equal to a length of the clip CL.

Embodiment 125. The clip of embodiment 123, wherein the height is equal to an inner height of the clip.

Embodiment 126. The clip of embodiment 123, wherein the width is equal to a shortest distance between a first clip edge and a first spacer.

Embodiment 127. The clip of embodiment 123, wherein the height is equal to a distance Ό _\ .

Embodiment 128. The clip of embodiment 126, wherein the width is at least about

0.001 inches, at least about 0.01 inches, at least about 0.1 inches, at least about 0.2 inches, or even at least about 0.5 inches.

Embodiment 129. The clip of embodiment 126, wherein the width is not greater than about 12 inches, not greater than about 6 inches, not greater than about 3 inches, not greater than about 2 inches or even not greater than about 1 inch.

Embodiment 130. The clip of any one of embodiments 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, wherein the clip comprises a second lateral space comprising a length (1), a width (w) and a height (h).

Embodiment 131. The clip of embodiment 130, wherein the length is equal to a length of the clip CL.

Embodiment 132. The clip of embodiment 130, wherein the height is equal to an inner height of the clip.

Embodiment 133. The clip of embodiment 130, wherein the height is equal to a distance Di .

Embodiment 134. The clip of embodiment 130, wherein the width is equal to a shortest distance between a first clip edge and a first spacer.

Embodiment 135. The clip of embodiment 130, wherein the width is equal to a shortest distance between a second clip edge and a fourth spacer. Embodiment 136. The clip of embodiment 130, wherein the width is at least about 0.001 inches, at least about 0.01 inches, at least about 0.1 inches, at least about 0.2 inches, or even at least about 0.5 inches.

Embodiment 137. The clip of embodiment 130, wherein the width is not greater than about 12 inches, not greater than about 6 inches, not greater than about 3 inches, not greater than about 2 inches or even not greater than about 1 inch.

Embodiment 138. The conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 5 and 6, wherein the chain belt is disposed parallel to the second major surface of the flexible substrate.

Embodiment 139. The conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 5 and 6, wherein the chain belt comprises wire bars.

Embodiment 140. The conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 139, wherein the wire bars have a wire bar diameter WD of at least about 0.001 inches, at least about 0.01 inches, at least about 0.05 inches, at least about 0.08 inches or even at least about 0.1 inches.

Embodiment 141. The conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 139, wherein the wire bars have a wire bar diameter WD not greater than about 1 inch, not greater than about 0.75 inches, not greater than about 0.5 inches, not greater than about 0.4 inches, or even not greater than about 0.3 inches.

Embodiment 142. The conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 140, wherein an inner height of the clip is greater than the wire bar diameter WD.

Embodiment 143. The conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 140, wherein the wire bar diameter WD is equal to an inner height of the clip.

Embodiment 144. The conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 140, wherein a distance Di of the clip is greater than the wire bar diameter WD.

Embodiment 145. The conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 140, wherein the wire bar diameter WD is equal to a distance Di of the clip.

Embodiment 146. The conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 139, wherein a wire bar of the chain belt is disposed between the first plate and a second plate.

Embodiment 147. The conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 139, wherein a wire bar of the chain belt is disposed through a first lateral space such that the chain belt is disposed along an entire length of the first lateral space.

Embodiment 148. The conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 139, wherein a wire bar of the chain belt is disposed through a second lateral space such that the chain belt is disposed along an entire length of the second lateral space. Embodiment 149. The conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 139, wherein a wire bar of the chain belt is in direct contact with the first plate.

Embodiment 150. The conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 139, wherein a wire bar of the chain belt is in direct contact with the second major surface of the flexible substrate.

Embodiment 151. The conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 139, wherein a wire bar of the chain belt is in direct contact with a second plate.

Embodiment 152. The conveyor belt apparatus of embodiment 139, wherein a wire bar of the chain belt is in direct contact with the first plate and a second plate.

Embodiment 153. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 3, 4, 5 and 6, wherein the clip has a length CL of at least 0.0625 inches, at least about 0.125 inches, at least about 0.25 inches, at least about 0.50 inches, or even at least about 1 inch.

Embodiment 154. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 3, 4, 5 and 6, wherein the clip has a length CL not greater than about 2 inches, not greater than about 5 inches, not greater than about 10 inches, not greater than about 20 inches.

Embodiment 155. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 3, 4, 5 and 6, wherein the clip has a width CW of at least about 0.0625 inches, at least about 0.125 inches, at least about 0.25 inches, at least about 0.50 inches or even at least about 1 inches.

Embodiment 156. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 3, 4, 5 and 6, wherein the clip has a width CW not greater than about 2 inches, not greater than about 5 inches, not greater than about 10 inches, not greater than about 20 inches, or even not greater than about 24 inches.

Embodiment 157. The conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus of any one of embodiments 3, 4, 5 and 6, wherein the conveyor belt, or conveyor belt apparatus has a CL:FW ratio of at least 1:25, where CL is equal to the length of the clip and where FW is equal to the width of the flexible substrate.

The specification and illustrations of the embodiments described herein are intended to provide a general understanding of the structure of the various embodiments. The specification and illustrations are not intended to serve as an exhaustive and comprehensive description of all of the elements and features of apparatus and systems that use the structures or methods described herein. Separate embodiments may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment, and conversely, various features that are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any subcombination. Further, reference to values stated in ranges includes each and every value within that range. Many other embodiments may be apparent to skilled artisans only after reading this specification. Other embodiments may be used and derived from the disclosure, such that a structural substitution, logical substitution, or another change may be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, the disclosure is to be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive.