What are conveyor belts primarily used for?

Conveyor belts are primarily designed to transport materials along a fixed path, making them an essential component in various industries for efficient material handling. This functionality is crucial for optimizing workflows in manufacturing, distribution, and logistics systems, enabling the seamless movement of goods from one process to another. The design of conveyor belts allows them to move a wide range of materials, including raw products, assembled goods, and waste material, reducing manual labor and minimizing the risk of injury associated with carrying heavy items.

While other options might describe ancillary functions that occur in manufacturing processes, they do not capture the primary role of conveyor belts. Protecting items during manufacturing, heating materials, or inspecting items visually might involve other equipment or systems, but they don't align with the main purpose of conveyor belts in material handling. The efficiency gained by using conveyor belts for transportation has a significant impact on productivity, making it the correct choice for this question.