Abstract: A log processor and log processing method scans a log (L) at a first station (18) so that the longitudinal centerline (32) and a sawing scheme for the log can be automatically determined by a controller (4). The log is oriented at a second station (24) so that the longitudinal centerline is oriented with respect to a vertical plane passing through the feed line. The position of the log is automatically adjusted at third and fourth stations (36, 42) so that the saw blade path (56) through the log is generally parallel to the feed line as the log passes a log exit (12) and through a saw (14). The sawing scheme can include variable tapering sawing from split taper sawing to full taper sawing. Differential steering chain assemblies (37) may be used at the fourth station and may each include continuous loop, log-engaging chains (106) which engage the log above and below the log. Log chipping, profiling heads (62) may be used on either side of the feed line, such as at a fifth station.

Abstract: A sawguide assembly includes a set of sawguides positioned adjacent to one another to create an array of laterally-abutting sawguides. A sawguide biasing assembly biases the sawguides against one another. The array is supported for movement along a lateral path generally parallel to the axis of the arbor. A lateral driver is used to move the entire array in unison along the lateral path. A sawguide array skewing assembly couples the sawguides to one another so that the sawguides can be pivoted in unison about their respective pivot axes by a skewing driver.

Abstract: An improved saw assembly (30) includes a rotatable arbor (74) on which two or more saw blades (75) are mounted. The driving interface (96, 98) between the saw blades and the arbor permits the axis of rotation of the saw blades to be collinear with the arbor axis (90) or skewed a few degrees (94) in either direction. A saw blade positioning assembly (72) includes pairs of guide arms (84) which engage the sides (88) of the saw blades to position each saw blade at the proper location along the arbor and at the proper skew angle. The guide arms are moved in unison so that the axial position and the skew angle of each of the saw blades can be changed in unison before and during sawing operations.

Abstract: An improved saw assembly (30) includes a rotatable arbor (74) on which two or more saw blades (75) are mounted. The driving interface (96, 98) between the saw blades and the arbor permits the axis of rotation of the saw blades to be collinear with the arbor axis (90) or skewed a few degrees (94) in either direction. A saw blade positioning assembly (72) includes pairs of guide arms (84) which engage the sides (88) of the saw blades to position each saw blade at the proper location along the arbor and at the proper skew angle. The guide arms are moved in unison so that the axial position and the skew angle of each of the saw blades can be changed in unison before and during sawing operations.

Abstract: Apparatus for detecting dimensional information of a workpiece such as a canted log is used to control a gang saw mounted on a pivot axis to cut the log into substantially even thickness boards while moving the log past the cutting device and pivoting the gang saw to accommodate curvature in the log.

Abstract: A saw guide system having a mechanism for applying an oil film to individual saw blades includes saw guide blocks having either common or separate distribution networks for oil and water. The saw guide block has an open chamber extending through the guide block for receiving and distributing the oil and water from the distribution networks onto the saw blades. The use of a lubricating film greatly reduces the accumulation of heat in the sawing system and allows operation of the sawing system without the introduction of cooling water.