Stationary Log Processing with Movable Tool Carrier
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for processing tree trunks into lumber require complex and space-intensive processing lines, with inaccurate transport and reclamping leading to inefficiencies and waste, as well as limitations in sawing the entire log due to end clamping.
Innovation Solution
Aligning the tree trunk by moving one end transversely to the longitudinal axis, clamping it coaxially, profiling it into a block, and then re-clamping for sawing, using tools that move along the trunk without changing its position, allowing for efficient space use and precise machining.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If tree trunks are transported through multiple longitudinal processing stations, then alignment and profiling can be performed, but the processing line becomes complex and space-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of moving the tree trunk through multiple processing stations, the patent inverts the approach by keeping the tree trunk stationary and moving the processing tools (alignment device, profiling device, saws) along the trunk. This eliminates the need for complex transport mechanisms and reclamping operations while maintaining processing precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The stationary processing platform serves multiple functions: it holds the tree trunk during alignment, profiling, and sawing operations. The same platform and clamping mechanism are used throughout the entire processing sequence, eliminating the need for separate transport and positioning systems for each operation.
2Manufacturing precision
If tree trunks are successively processed at multiple longitudinal stations, then each operation can be performed, but considerable space is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reverses the conventional approach by making the processing tools movable along a stationary tree trunk rather than moving the trunk through fixed stations. This consolidation of multiple operations around a single stationary workpiece dramatically reduces the spatial footprint of the processing line.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple processing functions (alignment, profiling, sawing) are merged into a single stationary processing platform where all tools operate on the same clamped tree trunk. This eliminates the need for separate processing stations spaced out along a longitudinal conveyor, reducing overall space requirements.
3Stability of the object's composition
If tree trunk is clamped at the end for sawing, then positioning is stable, but the clamped portion cannot be completely sawn into lumber
Solution Approach 1:
The tree trunk is profiled into a block of wood with rounded corners before clamping for sawing. This preliminary profiling creates a compact geometric shape that can be completely sawn into lumber without the clamping mechanism interfering with the cutting path, thereby maximizing wood utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping position is changed from end-clamping to clamping the profiled block in a position that allows complete sawing. The profiling process transforms the trunk's geometry so that when clamped, the entire length can be processed into lumber, changing the physical parameters of the workpiece to enable complete utilization.
4Area of stationary object
If tools are moved along the clamped tree trunk, then space requirements are reduced, but the processing sequence becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
A single movable tool carrier performs multiple functions: it holds the alignment device, the profiling device, and the saws. This universal carrier moves along the stationary tree trunk, consolidating what would otherwise require separate mechanisms for each operation into one multi-functional system.
Solution Approach 2:
The processing system transitions from static tools at fixed stations to dynamic tools that move along the workpiece. The tool carrier can be positioned at different locations along the tree trunk as needed, providing flexibility and reducing space while maintaining processing capability.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for processing a tree trunk (2) is described, which, after being aligned with respect to a longitudinal axis (10), is profiled into a wood block (2a) using at least one tool (20) and subsequently sawn into lumber. The tree trunk (2) is aligned by displacing at least one end transversely to the trunk (2) relative to a longitudinal axis (10) and clamped coaxially to the longitudinal axis (10) in its aligned position before the clamped tree trunk (2) is profiled into a wood block (2a) while maintaining the clamping. To enable advantageous processing conditions, it is proposed that the tree trunk (2) be profiled into a wood block (2a) using a tool (20) that can be moved along the tree trunk (2). Afterward, the wood block (2a) is re-clamped in the clamping position for profiling and sawn into lumber. The invention also relates to a device for carrying out the method.