Forestry Grapple Chain-Link Holder for Remote Log Wrapper Securing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional log wrapper securing methods, including manual throwing and loader-assisted techniques, pose risks of injury to logging truck drivers and potential damage to the log wrappers due to repetitive strain and the need for precise timing and coordination, while also not entirely eliminating repetitive stress injuries.
Innovation Solution
A log wrapper securement device that uses a rod extending from a linear actuator to engage and hold a chain link, positioned within the inspection cavity of a forestry grapple, allowing for remote operation and securement of log wrappers without the driver needing to be in harm's way, reducing the risk of injury and damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual throwing method is used to secure log wrappers, then the driver has direct control over the securing process, but the driver is exposed to repetitive stress injuries and potential injury from falling cables
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary device (loader-assisted securement system) that mediates between the driver and the log wrapper throwing process. The device includes a holder mounted on the loader that catches the log wrapper cable, allowing the loader to lift and position the cable over the load without the driver needing to manually throw it repeatedly, thus reducing repetitive stress injury while maintaining securing control
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by allowing the loader mechanism to perform the physically demanding task of lifting and positioning log wrappers automatically. The driver simply needs to feed the cable into the holder, and the loader's lifting action completes the securing process without requiring the driver to manually throw heavy cables over high loads repeatedly
2Object-affected harmful factors
If loader-assisted securement method is used, then repetitive stress injury is reduced, but the driver may be exposed to harm from moving forestry grapple and the log wrapper may be damaged by grapple arms
Solution Approach 1:
The holder is designed to catch and secure the log wrapper cable before the forestry grapple arms open. By having the holder in place beforehand to receive the cable, the system performs the critical securing action before the grapple mechanism creates potential hazards, preventing both driver injury and cable damage
Solution Approach 2:
The securement process is segmented into distinct phases: the driver feeds the cable into the holder, the loader lifts the cable, and then the grapple arms open to release the cable onto the load. This segmentation separates the dangerous phases, allowing the cable to be secured away from moving grapple parts before the grapple opens, eliminating the risk of pinching or nicking
3Ease of operation
If traditional manual throwing method is used, then the driver can secure log wrappers, but significant time is lost due to repetitive manual operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical throwing action with a mechanical lifting system (loader-assisted mechanism). The loader's hydraulic or mechanical lifting capability substitutes for the driver's manual throwing motion, dramatically increasing the speed and efficiency of securing log wrappers while reducing physical effort and time per operation
Data Source
AI summary
A device for securing logs from harvested timber to a transport vehicle, or logging truck, using log wrappers. The log wrapper securement device can be located in the inspection cavity of a forestry grapple. The forestry grapple is attached to a log loader. The log wrapper securement device includes a base plate sized and shaped to replace the inspection plate covering the inspection cavity. The base plate includes a slot sized and shaped to receive a portion of a chain end link or other chain links of the log wrapper, which can be inserted manually. The loader operator can remotely control the actuator to secure the chain link and release it, once the log wrapper is positioned over the other side of the logging truck. The log wrapper securement device can potentially reduce injuries and save lives.