Pivoting Arm Log Straightener for Vertical Splitter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual log straightening in vertical log splitters is tiring, insecure, and poses safety risks due to manual coupling and uncoupling operations, with existing solutions not adequately addressing ergonomics and safety concerns.
Innovation Solution
A log straightening device with a pivoting arm and coupling means that automatically tilts logs from horizontal to vertical positions using a splitter's actuator, featuring a temporary mechanical interlocking system and locking mechanism to reduce manual effort and ensure safety, without additional energy input.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual log straightening is used, then the operator can position the log, but it causes operator fatigue and back problems
Solution Approach 1:
The log straightening device enables the log to be positioned automatically through the pivoting arm mechanism, which tilts the log from horizontal to vertical position without requiring manual lifting or positioning by the operator. The device serves itself by using the splitter's actuator to perform the straightening function.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivoting arm acts as an intermediary mechanism between the log and the operator. Instead of the operator directly handling the log, the pivoting arm receives the log in horizontal position and automatically tilts it to vertical position, mediating the interaction and eliminating direct manual manipulation.
2Ease of operation
If manual coupling and uncoupling of the pivoting arm is performed, then the device can be operated, but it presents safety risks to the operator
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling means automatically couples and uncouples the pivoting arm from the splitting member based on the actuator's position. When the actuator moves to its retracted position, the coupling means automatically engages; when the actuator advances, the coupling means automatically disengages. This eliminates the need for manual coupling operations that pose safety risks.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling means is positioned to respond to the actuator's position automatically. The system uses feedback from the actuator's movement state to control the coupling engagement, ensuring that coupling only occurs when the actuator is retracted and the splitting member is clear, thereby preventing safety hazards.
3Reliability
If a non-removable chain is used to couple the lifting arm, then the arm remains locked in tilted position, but the chain interferes with the cutting operation
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling means is designed to dynamically change its state based on the actuator position. It transitions from an engaged state (when actuator is retracted) to a disengaged state (when actuator advances). This dynamic behavior allows the system to maintain reliable arm positioning during loading while eliminating interference during the cutting operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling system is segmented into separate functional elements: the pivoting arm, the coupling means, and the splitting member. The coupling means can be independently engaged or disengaged from the splitting member, allowing the arm to be locked in position while the splitting member moves freely during cutting without chain interference.
Data Source
Figure 1~1A
Figure 2
Figure 3~5
AI summary
The present invention relates to a log straightening device (1) for a log splitter (2), comprising a frame (20) provided with a vertical beam (202) and a base (201), a splitting member (21) coupled to an actuator (23) controlled by a control unit (24) integral with said frame (20) mounted on a sliding carriage (22) for vertical translation between a lower position (PB) and a higher position (PH). The straightening device (1) includes a pivoting arm (10) mounted on a horizontal support by means of articulation (11) and coupled to actuating means for tilting from a horizontal loading position to a tilted position in which the pivoting arm (10) tilts said log (B) to bring it closer to the vertical splitting position.It includes locking means (16) for automatically decoupling the pivoting arm (10) from the splitting member (21) and for automatically maintaining said pivoting arm (10) in a tilted position during the splitting of the log (B).