Kinetic log splitter
US9649777B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 26, 2014 |
| Grant date | May 16, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 21, 2035 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB27L7/00
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A log splitter where splitting force is generated by storing kinetic energy in a rotating flywheel. Rotational energy is converted to splitting force by means of a rack and pinion, which is coupled to the flywheels through a belt-driven clutch system. A belt rests around a driven sheave and a drive sheave. An idler pulley tensions the belt, causing the driven pulley to rotate. The idler pulley is attached to an actuation handle causing the idler to lock, by means of a latch, until the operator disengages the pulley, or until a component mounted to the rack forces the latch to disengage. The rack remains engaged to the pinion by a bearing mounting system. A spring bumper may be placed at the end of travel so that at the end of the stroke, the ram mechanism compresses the spring, and uses stored energy to reverse the ram, pinion and sheave.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.