Segmented Bunch Accumulator for Energy Wood Grapple
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bunch accumulators for energy wood grapples are prone to breakage, inefficient in segment handling, especially for small diameter wood, and require excessive space due to wide range of motion, leading to slow accumulation and loose grip on small wood segments.
Innovation Solution
A compact and robust bunch accumulator design featuring two pivotable collection members with opposite linear motion, supported by a frame structure with linear guides and a mobile carriage, utilizing a one-piece claw with spring-loaded mechanism and guided articulation to securely grip and release wood segments efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If collection members are made robust and breakage-resistant, then reliability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The collection member is divided into multiple segments that can pivot relative to each other. This segmentation allows the structure to be more robust (each segment can withstand force) while maintaining simplicity through modular design. The segments are connected by pivots that enable controlled motion without requiring complex articulated mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The collection member transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic segmented structure with pivot joints. This allows the collection member to adapt its shape during operation - remaining rigid when needed for durability but allowing controlled movement to avoid wood and reduce complexity of release mechanisms.
2Volume of moving object
If the range of motion of collection members is reduced, then space requirements decrease, but grip control on small diameter wood deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The collection member uses segmented pivoting sections that allow controlled local motion. Each segment can pivot independently to accommodate small diameter wood, ensuring proper grip control, while the overall range of motion of the entire collection member remains limited to reduce space requirements. The dynamic adaptation occurs at the segment level, not the whole structure level.
Solution Approach 2:
Different segments of the collection member have different pivot characteristics, allowing local adaptation to wood diameter. Small diameter wood engages segments that can pivot more readily for secure grip, while the overall structure maintains compact dimensions. Each local segment optimizes grip for its specific function while contributing to the compact whole.
3Ease of operation
If collection members are articulated into two parts for release, then ease of operation improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The collection member is segmented into multiple pivotable sections that work together as an integrated release mechanism. Rather than adding a separate articulation mechanism, the segmentation itself enables release - when the collection member is actuated, the segments naturally pivot to open the grip. This integrates the release function into the basic structure, improving ease of operation without proportionally increasing complexity.
4Productivity
If the bunch accumulator operates faster, then productivity improves, but grip control on small segments deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented collection member provides dynamic grip adjustment that maintains control during fast operation. The pivoting segments can quickly adapt to small diameter wood, maintaining secure grip even during rapid accumulation cycles. The inertia of the segmented structure provides natural damping that prevents overshooting or dropping small segments during fast operation, maintaining control while enabling high productivity.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
The invention relates to a bunch accumulator for an energy wood grapple. The bunch accumulator (10) comprises two collection members (16). An opposite linear motion (17) is provided between the respective collection members (16). The invention also relates to an energy wood grapple.