Battery-Powered Log Splitter Hydraulic Drive for Cordless Wood Splitting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional log splitters, particularly gas-powered and electric corded models, are cumbersome, noisy, expensive, and inconvenient due to fuel consumption and the need for power cords, posing environmental and operational challenges.
Innovation Solution
A battery-powered log splitter with a hydraulic control system, featuring a frame, wheels, hitch assembly, and a cutter mechanism driven by an electric motor, allowing for easy transport and clean operation without the need for fuel or power cords.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If gas-powered splitters are used, then splitting power is sufficient, but noise level increases and environmental harm occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the internal combustion engine (mechanical system) with an electric motor, eliminating exhaust emissions and significantly reducing noise. The electric motor drives a hydraulic pump to generate the necessary splitting force, substituting the direct mechanical power generation with an electrical-hydraulic system that is cleaner and quieter.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a hydraulic system where an electric motor drives a hydraulic pump to generate high-pressure fluid that actuates a hydraulic cylinder. This hydraulic mechanism delivers the required splitting power while allowing the use of a quieter electric motor instead of a loud combustion engine.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If electric corded log splitters are used, then clean operation is achieved, but portability decreases due to power cord requirement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power supply system into a removable battery pack that can be detached and recharged separately. This allows the main body of the log splitter to remain lightweight and portable while providing cordless operation, combining the cleanliness of electric power with the mobility of a battery-powered system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a static corded power connection to a dynamic battery-powered system where the power source can be easily removed, repositioned, and recharged. This dynamic power supply approach maintains clean electric operation while dramatically improving portability and flexibility of use.
3Power
If gas-powered splitters are used, then sufficient power is provided, but maintenance complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex internal combustion engine with a simpler electric motor-hydraulic system. Electric motors have fewer moving parts, no oil changes, no air filters, and no fuel systems requiring maintenance. The hydraulic components are sealed and require minimal upkeep, significantly reducing maintenance complexity while maintaining adequate splitting power.
4Productivity
If conventional log splitters are used, then splitting function is provided, but transportability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the overall system into lighter components, particularly using an electric motor and battery instead of a heavy gas engine. The frame is designed with integrated handles and a compact layout that facilitates easier lifting and transport, maintaining full splitting functionality while reducing weight and improving maneuverability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The battery-powered log splitter provides a portable, efficient, and environmentally friendly solution for wood splitting, offering easy transport and clean operation with adjustable power modes to optimize performance and conserve energy.
Implementation Method 1
an electric motor operably coupled to the hydraulic pump
Implementation Method 2
A hydraulic control system includes a hydraulic pump and a control valve
Data Source
AI summary
A log splitter includes a frame, one or more wheels for supporting the frame, and a tongue extending from the frame and including a hitch assembly. A hydraulic control system includes a hydraulic pump and a control valve. The log splitter includes an electric motor operably coupled to the hydraulic pump, and a cutter mechanism configured to perform a cutting operation. The cutter mechanism is operably controlled by the hydraulic control system to move between a retracted position and a cutting position. A power module includes a battery electrically coupled to the electric motor. A movement of the cutter mechanism between the retracted position and cutting position is operably driven by the electric motor.