Trough training idler

An apparatus and method for adjusting the trough angle of a conveyor belt transport mechanism and for automatically correcting for conveyor belt creep along the conveyor belt sides during belt operation. The apparatus and method are directed to an idler assembly that pivots through a high point over a base frame. The idler assembly includes a horizontal base strut and angled wing struts on each side of the base strut. Rotatably mounted on the horizontal base strut are a pair of parallel centered rollers that surround a centrally-located pivot point. Rotatably mounted on each angled wing strut is a respective conical-shaped wing roller wherein a lower end of the wing roller remains at a fixed distance from the wing element whereas the distance between the upper end and the angled wing strut is adjustable via a threaded rod using jam nuts to releasably secure the angled wing rollers at a desired angle. During belt operation, if conveyor belt creep occurs the idler assembly automatically pivots to correct and re-center the belt over the parallel-centered rollers.