Abstract: A wheel includes a peripheral outer wall onto which are sequentially loaded veneer panels. The panels are held in place by cable runs against a heated outer surface of the wheel outer wall. Drying of the veneer panels occurs during wheel rotation. A heated fluid medium such as hot oil flows through an annular chamber of the wheel. A series of inlet conduits supply the annular chamber with the heated medium while return conduits return same to a heat source. Multiple tensioned runs of cable confine each panel in place during wheel rotation. A modified form utilizes a continuous screen for panel retention. A drive system imparts rotation to the wheel by powered components in contact with the wheel periphery. A panel pre-heater and jet dryers are supplemental heat sources.

Abstract: A flying saw apparatus for severing a predetermined length of material from a continuously moving length of material is disclosed. A saw carriage is supported on a main frame assembly for reciprocating motion parallel to the direction of motion of the material. The saw carriage includes a saw bridge which extends transversely of the direction of motion of the saw carriage and is movable upwardly and downwardly. A saw shuttle, which carries a circular saw, is supported for reciprocating motion on the saw bridge. The saw carriage is connected through a drive mechanism to the main power drive of the material conveyor preceding the flying saw apparatus. The reciprocating motion of the saw carriage is transferred to reciprocating transverse motion of the saw shuttle by a rack and pinion mechanism.

Abstract: A sheet transfer apparatus (10) is disclosed. The apparatus (10) includes a first station (14), a second station (16) and a transfer mechanism (18) for transferring stiff sheets (20A,B) from the first station (14) to the second station (16). A conveyor mechanism (48) moves the sheet (20B) in a first direction (49) from the second station (16). Push-plates (32) are provided for releasing the sheet (20B) from the transfer mechanism (10) at the second station (16). A pair of longitudinally spaced bar members (50) apply downward pressure to a sheet (20B) falling downward onto the conveyor mechanism (48). Each bar member (50) is supported in an inoperative position by one of the push-plates (32).