To Be Driven By Fluid Pressure Patents (Class 144/195.1)
  • Patent number: 11883976
    Abstract: A wedge holder system and kit and method for splitting a log having a polymer foam block member with a concave top surface forming a basin with raised left and right longitudinal sides paralleling a center axis, the top surface designed to conform to a rounded side of a log. A planar bottom surface of the block member is designed to rest on a log cross section. At least one slot portion through the foam block member is designed to hold an at least one metal wedge member vertically to drive the metal wedge into a log. At least one V-shaped notch portion for holding wood vertically may be disposed within at least one exterior longitudinal side portion of the polymer foam block member. Polymer foam block members may be adjacent or coupled lengthwise or vertically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2024
    Inventor: Harold Allen
  • Patent number: 11813773
    Abstract: A cutting tool for truncating elongated structural members has a frame with a pair of parallel siderails connected at a first end by a support plate and at a second end by a removable end gate, the frame having an open center adapted to receive the structural member therethrough. The truncating is performed by a fixed penetrating cutting edge on an end gate and a driven penetrating blade slidably disposed within the frame to advance towards the end gate. The end gate has two integral penetrating cutting edges pointing in opposite directions. The driven penetrating blade and the fixed penetrating cutting edge may have concave cutting edges relative to one another and configured to be adjacent to one another along the travel of the driven penetrating blade. Alternately, an end gate second cutting edge may be directed to the opening within the frame and have a piercing V-shaped cutting edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2022
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2023
    Inventor: Leon Trudeau
  • Patent number: 11787080
    Abstract: Herein are novel tools for splitting wood and material handling. Disclosed is a vehicle supported wood splitter comprising a blade portion and a fixation portion extending from the blade portion. The blade portion comprises a generally upward facing cut edge situated between a primary deflector face and a secondary deflector face and in one embodiment at least a portion of the fixation portion is sized and shaped to be received in a hitch receiver of a vehicle. In other forms, the blade portion comprises a ball space for seating over a hitch ball. In some forms, the splitter is in the form of a jack stand. Also disclosed is a complementary kindling collection system, a guide system, and splitter device adapted to one or more of casting, machining, and welding. Several methods of use are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2023
    Inventor: Brian Patrick Janowski
  • Patent number: 11701792
    Abstract: An apparatus for mechanically splitting materials has a body with a cutting element arranged relative thereto. The cutting element has at least one cutting surface oriented vertically. The splitting apparatus has the cutting element applying an upward pressure against the material which is split when a separate downward force is applied to the material. The body of the splitting apparatus also has a safety element to protect the user from the cutting element; an elongate supporting element to distance the safety element from either or both the cutting element and a surface on which the splitting apparatus is used; a stabilizing element to stabilize the splitting apparatus relative to a surface on which the splitting apparatus is used; and optionally a deflecting element to deflect split materials away from the cutting element and container element to contain therewithin split materials produced during the splitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2023
    Inventor: Vaughan John Hutchinson
  • Patent number: 11673288
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a Li-Ion battery powered log splitter. The log splitter includes a steel frame having height adjustable legs and wheels for making the device both adjustable vertically and portable. The log splitter also features a hydraulic pump system powered by an integrated direct current (DC) motor. The DC motor receives power from the Li-Ion battery and spins the pump system for activating a steel plate and rod mechanism to section a log of wood placed on a track of the log splitter into at least two pieces. The size and output of the batteries, motor, and pump can be increased or decreased to suit user preference or need, and users can easily operate the log splitter to easily and safely split wood into sections or pieces for campfires, outdoor fire pits, ovens and much more.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2022
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2023
    Inventor: David Coolbaugh
  • Patent number: 10906202
    Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for mechanically splitting materials, including a body with a cutting element arranged relative thereto. The cutting element includes at least one cutting surface oriented vertically. The splitting apparatus includes the cutting element applying an upward pressure against the material which is split when a separate downward force is applied to the material. The body of the splitting apparatus also includes a safety element to protect the user from the cutting element; an elongate supporting element to distance the safety element from either or both the cutting element and a surface on which the splitting apparatus is used; a stabilizing element to stabilize the splitting apparatus relative to a surface on which the splitting apparatus is used; and optionally a deflecting element to deflect split materials away from the cutting element and container element to contain therewithin split materials produced during the splitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2021
    Inventor: Vaughan John Hutchinson
  • Patent number: 10519810
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to the manipulation of turbomachine combustors. An apparatus according to the present disclosure can include: a bracket body including an operative head configured to removably attach a turbomachine combustor; a rotatable joint rotatably coupled to the bracket body through a gear bearing, wherein the gear bearing is configured to rotate the bracket body relative to the rotatable joint; and a suspended member rotatably coupled to the rotatable joint at a first end, and coupled to a suspension joint at a second end, wherein the rotatable joint rotates the gear bearing and the bracket body relative to the suspended member to center the gear bearing about a predetermined axis of rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2019
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Stuart Craig Hanson, Kyle Joseph Banwart, Joseph Daniel Becker, Jereld Alen Meiers, Thomas Michael Merlau
  • Patent number: 10478992
    Abstract: Disclosed is a self-powered timber slasher. The self-powered timber slasher includes a self-propelled carrier and a powered circular saw mounted on a first end of the self-propelled carrier, wherein the powered circular saw is configured to cut timber. Further, a hydraulic motor coupled to the powered circular saw impart a rotational motion to the powered circular saw based on a flow of the hydraulic fluid that is stored with a hydraulic tank as the hydraulic motor is in fluid connection with the hydraulic tank. Yet further, the self-powered timber slasher a wireless controller electrically coupled to the powered circular saw. The wireless controller is configured to control operation of the powered circular saw based on a command received over a wireless communication channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2019
    Assignee: Spruce Creek Mechanical L.L.C.
    Inventor: John Steciak, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10391668
    Abstract: A firewood processor, comprising a saw, means for feeding wood for the saw, a splitting chute, a splitting wedge arranged to split a log, of which at least part is arranged in the splitting chute, into pieces, a pressure plate arranged to support the log, and means for moving the pressure plate and/or the splitting wedge towards each other in such a way that the log is configured to be split by said movement. In the firewood processor, the splitting wedge is arranged to split the log into an intermediate split log and at least one firewood-ready piece. The firewood processor further comprises a returning element for returning the intermediate split log back to the splitting chute for further splitting and a protector for protecting the user of the firewood processor. The firewood processor is configured to automatically return the intermediate split log, using the returning element, to the splitting chute.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: LAITILAN RAUTARAKENNE OY
    Inventors: Jori Lammi, Markus Vähä-Kouvola
  • Patent number: 10321638
    Abstract: A system, device, and method for processing a length of material are provided. A material-working device has first and second cutting devices, each having different cutting capacities. Data relating to the length and diameter at a plurality of points of the material is received, and used to determine at least one cutting position along its length. The diameter of the length of material at the cutting position is determined, and used to select either the first cutting device or second cutting device for use in performing a cut at the cutting position based on the cutting capacity of each cutting device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2019
    Assignee: WARATAH NZ LIMITED
    Inventor: Brett James Kaye
  • Patent number: 10166695
    Abstract: A wood supporting apparatus for use with a wood splitting device having a splitting wedge which translates along a substantially vertical splitting axis for dividing a segment of wood into separate segments, the wood supporting apparatus having a base member with a vertical support member for supporting and rotatably positioning the segment of wood.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2019
    Inventor: Paul W. Stachowski
  • Patent number: 10124507
    Abstract: A collapsible log splitting assembly with safety perimeter splits a log with a parabolic-shaped blade, a blade housing having a plurality of ridges for separating the split log further, and a perimeter barrier for retaining the log upright while splitting, and protecting an operator from contact with blade. The assembly has an upright disposition that is pivotally collapsible into a planar configuration when not in use. The assembly has a base that is for support on a surface. The base includes a pair of brackets. A pair of sleeves pivotally join with the brackets, pivoting about the brackets. A pair of shafts slide within sleeves, sliding between operational and collapsed positions. A cutting apparatus comprises a blade housing that houses a parabolic blade, and extends between the shafts. Ridges along the base housing separate the log into smaller components. The perimeter barrier detachably attaches to top end of the shafts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2018
    Inventors: Jianqing Zhu, Benjamin Paul McGrew
  • Patent number: 10071831
    Abstract: An ice cream sandwich cartoner. The cartoner is configured to continue operation while clearing a jam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2018
    Assignee: Darifill, Inc.
    Inventors: Jack Spencer, Eric Rousculp, Scott Spears
  • Patent number: 9662801
    Abstract: A log splitter system comprises an elongate frame, a socket extending into the elongate frame, and a removable splitter head. The removable splitter head comprises a post positioned within the socket, and a wedge extending from the post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2017
    Inventor: Matthew Arnold Trelstad
  • Patent number: 9381668
    Abstract: A log splitting apparatus having stripper plates for stripping logs from a blade member as a piston is retracted into a cylinder. In one arrangement, the stripper plates are removably securable to opposing sides of a log splitter frame of the apparatus to allow for replacement of the stripper plates with other stripper plates or other components (e.g., stroke reducing devices), use of multi-way (e.g., 4-way) wedge systems, and/or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2016
    Assignee: Frictionless World LLC
    Inventor: Daniel Banjo
  • Patent number: 9108337
    Abstract: Superior Skid Splitter is designed to lift, split, and load firewood logs, effectively eliminating the need for physical labor when handling and processing the wood. The device features an adjustable, hydraulic wood splitter containing a plate assembly with a six-way cutter head on its underside. The unit can be attached to a skid loader or a tractor, allowing it to lift a single large log and split it into six smaller pieces. It can also be designed to grab and carry long lengths of logs to load onto trucks or trailers, and may load pieces of split wood into receptacles because of its relative orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2015
    Inventor: James Blaha
  • Publication number: 20140027016
    Abstract: The present invention is a wood splitting apparatus that includes a trailer hitch that releasably couples the wood splitting apparatus to a vehicle, an oil reservoir that contains hydraulic oil to operate the wood splitting apparatus and a plurality of hydraulic control valves with a plurality of hydraulic hoses, where the hydraulic hoses extend from the hydraulic control valves to the oil reservoir and where the hydraulic control valves control a splitting wedge movably disposed on the second end of the wood splitting apparatus. The apparatus also includes a base table that receives a wood chunk that removably rests on the base table and a base trailer that transports the wood splitting apparatus with the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2012
    Publication date: January 30, 2014
    Inventor: Allan Olson
  • Patent number: 8511354
    Abstract: A log splitter includes a trailer supporting a hydraulic pump, and a splitting beam coupled to the trailer. The splitting beam includes a housing maintaining a reservoir communicating with the hydraulic pump, and a hydraulic ram coupled to the housing, where the hydraulic ram is in communication with the reservoir and the hydraulic pump. The splitting beam is movable relative to the trailer between a first splitting position adjacent to the trailer and a second splitting position in which the splitting beam is displaced away from the trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Ardisam, Inc.
    Inventors: Randy Schamberger, Jay Engstrom
  • Publication number: 20130098503
    Abstract: A log splitter machine featuring a steel beam upon which an engine, a hydraulic fluid reservoir, a hydraulic cylinder, a splitting ram, and a splitting head are positioned in such a way as to accomplish the task of reducing large sections of logs into smaller pieces. Additional components include a log lifter device, a telescoping rear foot, and a conveyor mechanism. The conveyor mechanism is connected to the frame of the machine by means of a hinge. The machine has both a non-operational position and an operational position. The operational position is achieved by pivoting the conveyor mechanism through an angle of one-hundred eighty degrees around the hinge. In both its non-operational and operational positions, the machine sits upon wheels, allowing for quick and easy relocation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2012
    Publication date: April 25, 2013
    Inventor: Louis Martin Shaeffer
  • Publication number: 20120132320
    Abstract: Superior Skid Splitter is designed to lift, split, and load firewood logs, effectively eliminating the need for physical labor when handling and processing the wood. The device features an adjustable, hydraulic wood splitter containing a plate assembly with a six-way cutter head on its underside. The unit can be attached to a skid loader or a tractor, allowing it to lift a single large log and split it into six smaller pieces. It can also be designed to grab and carry long lengths of logs to load onto trucks or trailers, and may load pieces of split wood into receptacles because of its relative orientation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2011
    Publication date: May 31, 2012
    Inventor: James Blaha
  • Publication number: 20120073704
    Abstract: A portable hydraulic log splitter has a primary log splitting table mounted on a wheeled transportation vehicle with two lateral opposing secondary log splitting tables adjoining the primary splitting table. Opposing horizontal primary splitting blades are fixedly mounted on the secondary log splitting tables. Opposing vertical secondary splitting blades are fixedly mounted on the secondary log splitting tables and below and fixed to the primary splitting blades. The secondary splitting blades are laterally outwardly staggered from the primary splitting blades. A backstop is mounted on the primary splitting table to prevent the log from falling off the primary splitting table. A lateral reciprocating log push block is slideably mounted on the primary log splitting table through a slot therein and extending below whereat it is connected to a hydraulic cylinder to move the log push block laterally back and forth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2010
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Inventor: Joshua Larrabee
  • Publication number: 20120055585
    Abstract: An apparatus for splitting logs, or other suitable materials, the apparatus comprising: a frame; a wedge affixed to the forward end of the frame; and means for hands-free control of a hydraulic ram affixed to the aft end of the frame whereby forward movement of the ram splits logs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2010
    Publication date: March 8, 2012
    Inventor: Timothy M. Gassner
  • Patent number: 8006725
    Abstract: A log splitter having a bed for accepting a log. The bed has an operating length between first and second components, with the former a wedge. The log splitter can be placed in: (a) a first operative state wherein the bed has a first operating length; and (b) a second operative state wherein the bed has a second operating length. With the log splitter in the first operative state, the wedge is movable: (a) from a first starting position in a first lengthwise direction to effect splitting of a log; and (b) thereafter, oppositely to the first lengthwise direction back into the first starting position. In the second operative state, the wedge is movable: (a) from a second starting position to effect splitting; and (b) thereafter, back into the second starting position. The log splitter further has an operating assembly to move the first component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Echo, Inc.
    Inventor: David S. Majkrzak
  • Patent number: 7913726
    Abstract: A trailer-mounted wood splitter with an integral platform, log boom and grappler provides an extended table area to facilitate the splitting of wood. The apparatus comprises a hydraulic-powered wood splitting assembly operated by an internal combustion engine mounted to a trailer. A horizontal surface worktable is provided all around the upper surface of the wood splitting plane. In such a manner, any wood that is placed upon the platform for splitting does not fall off after splitting is complete. This allows the user to reposition any remaining sections of wood for additional splitting without having to pick them up off the ground. Once completely split, the wood can be directed to the side of the table or platform for stacking or transportation. The apparatus further comprises a log boom with a grappler attached to a far end for moving and manipulating felled logs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventor: James W. Honnell
  • Publication number: 20110048581
    Abstract: This log splitter is designed to work very fast and efficiently, yet be less expensive to construct than comparable splitters. By using a single, vertical, rectangular post to support all the split wedges including the two-way, these wedges can be of a simpler, less expensive, yet as strong construction. Secondly, by angling the Split Wedge Post slightly forward, it retains the split wedges during splitting operations, limits them to rise only slightly as the wood passes through, yet allows them to be freely and easily placed and removed by hand by the operator. The manually operated Height Adjuster Bar located conveniently on the side of the beam, allows the operator to easily and quickly raise and lower the split wedges as necessary to accommodate different sized logs and to retain the wedges in place with a simple latch type arrangement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2009
    Publication date: March 3, 2011
    Inventor: Norman A. Hicks
  • Publication number: 20110041955
    Abstract: A log-splitting apparatus includes a beam, a backstop coupled to the beam, and a wedge assembly for splitting logs. The wedge assembly is coupled to the beam. An actuating mechanism is provided and is capable of being operated in a first mode, wherein the actuating mechanism is operable to move the beam between a first position and a second position. The actuating mechanism is also capable of being operated in a second mode, wherein the actuating mechanism is operable to move at least one of the wedge assembly and backstop from a log-receiving position to a log-splitting position. The apparatus may include a mode selecting switch for selectively switching the actuating mechanism between the first mode and second mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2009
    Publication date: February 24, 2011
    Inventor: Ambrose Bedel
  • Patent number: 7882868
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a compact, portable, lightweight, easily transportable, quickly operating wood splitting apparatus, using a knife which cuts a log or piece of wood that is deposed on a platform. This compact and portable wood splitter is actuated by a hydraulic cylinder transmitting a pendulum movement to a knife and onto an upright piece of wood. The apparatus may be attached to a truck box, to a trailer or to a wall by means of a vertical, horizontal, fixed or mobile fixture. The splitter apparatus is compact and portable and it can easily be stored in a car trunk or in a shed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Inventor: Martin Lessard
  • Publication number: 20100282366
    Abstract: Provided is a wood splitter comprising a support element, a first elongated element, a second elongated element, and wood splitting components. A support element may comprise a first elongated element and a second elongated element engaged to said first elongated element. The a first elongated element may be subject to a first pre-stress load. The first pre-stress load may comprise a first moment. The a second elongated element may be engaged to the first elongated element and may be subject to a second pre-stress load. Wood splitting components may be engaged with at least one of a first elongated element or a second elongated element, may be adapted to operate to split wood, and may be adapted to apply an operational load during operation to the first elongated element. The operational load may at least partially relax the first moment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2009
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Inventor: Gary Wilkinson
  • Patent number: 7814946
    Abstract: An hydraulically powered implement attachment for a powered machine is disclosed. The implement attachment comprises a frame member adapted for attachment to at least one movable arm of the powered machine. A reversible drive hydraulic motor member is mounted to the frame member. The hydraulic motor member includes a drive shaft extending therefrom and a pair of hydraulic power lines adapted for attachment to the powered machine. A power shaft is rotatably mounted to the frame member and operatively connected at a first end to the drive shaft of the hydraulic motor member. A rotationally operative implement member is connected to a second end of the power shaft. An operator of the powered machine actuates the rotationally operative implement member through rotation of the power shaft by the reversible drive hydraulic motor. Preferably the implement attachment member is a conical wood splitter member and the powered machine is a skid steer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Inventor: Charlie VanDusartz
  • Patent number: 7814945
    Abstract: A log splitter comprises a support structure having a first end, a second end, and an open center portion defined therebetweeen, a splitting device slidably coupled to the support structure, and a drive mechanism for driving movement of the splitting device through a splitting zone. The splitting device comprises an elongate beam having an outer surface, a first end, a second end, and an open center portion between the first end and the second end, and a splitting wedge coupled to the outer surface of the elongate beam and having at least one splitting surface formed thereon. The elongate beam is disposed within the open center portion of the support structure. The drive mechanism is disposed within the open center portion of the elongate beam, and is coupled on a first end to the first end of the support structure and on a second end to the second end of the elongate beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: Northern Tool & Equipment Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Stephen Emerson Babcock
  • Patent number: 7669618
    Abstract: A wood processor attachment for skid steer loader for efficiently cutting and splitting logs. The wood processor attachment for skid steer loader generally includes a pivotally mounted support structure including a receiving end, a working end opposite the receiving end and a loading apparatus. A conveying member, a cutting unit, a ram and a wedge are attached to the support structure. The loading apparatus extends from the receiving end, wherein the loading apparatus transfers a log to the conveying member. The conveying member travels between the receiving end and the working end, wherein the cutting unit, the ram and the wedge are adjacent the working end to selectively cut and split the log. The support structure may be pivotally mounted upon various objects, such as but not limited to a skid steer loader or a tractor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Inventor: Glen Halverson
  • Publication number: 20100024919
    Abstract: A log splitter having a bed for accepting a log. The bed has an operating length between first and second components, with the former a wedge. The log splitter can be placed in: (a) a first operative state wherein the bed has a first operating length; and (b) a second operative state wherein the bed has a second operating length. With the log splitter in the first operative state, the wedge is movable: (a) from a first starting position in a first lengthwise direction to effect splitting of a log; and (b) thereafter, oppositely to the first lengthwise direction back into the first starting position. In the second operative state, the wedge is movable: (a) from a second starting position to effect splitting; and (b) thereafter, back into the second starting position. The log splitter further has an operating assembly to move the first component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2009
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Inventor: David S. Majkrzak
  • Publication number: 20090288737
    Abstract: Apparatus for positioning and splitting wood. The apparatus includes: a beam having a longitudinal axis; a wood splitting blade attached at or near an of the beam; a workpiece slidably attached to the beam such that when wood is positioned between the splitting blade and the workpiece and the workpiece is slid in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the beam toward the splitting blade, the wood is forced into the splitting blade to split the wood; and a stationary jaw member attached at or near one end of the beam so that when the apparatus is attached to the boom of a backhoe or the like in place of the bucket thereof, wood can be grasped between the stationary jaw member and a jaw member attached to the boom of the backhoe or the like so that the wood can be positioned by movement of the apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2008
    Publication date: November 26, 2009
    Inventor: Mathew A. Gilmet
  • Publication number: 20090242078
    Abstract: A log splitter includes a trailer supporting a hydraulic pump, and a splitting beam coupled to the trailer. The splitting beam includes a housing maintaining a reservoir communicating with the hydraulic pump, and a hydraulic ram coupled to the housing, where the hydraulic ram is in communication with the reservoir and the hydraulic pump. The splitting beam is movable relative to the trailer between a first splitting position adjacent to the trailer and a second splitting position in which the splitting beam is displaced away from the trailer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2008
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Applicant: ARDISAM
    Inventors: Randy Schamberger, Jay Engstrom
  • Publication number: 20090236011
    Abstract: A hands-free wood (log segment) splitting apparatus and method of employing a mobile vehicle having mounted thereon the splitting apparatus. The splitting apparatus includes a mount removably secured to the mobile vehicle and having secured thereon a rotatable auger, the location of the mount and the components carried thereon being safely remote from an operator. Control over the positioning of the apparatus, including the auger relative to a to-be-split log segment, control over the movement of the auger relative to the log segment being split, restraining the log segment from undesired movement relative to the spinning auger, and other related actions, are effected by the operator from the remote location and without exposure of the operator to personal injury from the splitting apparatus. Guides are provided for entry thereof into a split to serve as impediments to collapse of the split portions of the log segment against the auger.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2009
    Publication date: September 24, 2009
    Inventor: Stoney Dale Bolton
  • Publication number: 20090229709
    Abstract: A log splitter comprises a support structure having a first end, a second end, and an open center portion defined therebetweeen, a splitting device slidably coupled to the support structure, and a drive mechanism for driving movement of the splitting device through a splitting zone. The splitting device comprises an elongate beam having an outer surface, a first end, a second end, and an open center portion between the first end and the second end, and a splitting wedge coupled to the outer surface of the elongate beam and having at least one splitting surface formed thereon. The elongate beam is disposed within the open center portion of the support structure. The drive mechanism is disposed within the open center portion of the elongate beam, and is coupled on a first end to the first end of the support structure and on a second end to the second end of the elongate beam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2008
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Applicant: Northern Tool & Equipment Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Stephen Emerson Babcock
  • Patent number: 7556072
    Abstract: An apparatus and methods for splitting logs includes a hydraulic power unit, for driving a wedge against a log, held in a fixed position, between the wedge and an anvil. The hydraulic power unit is manually powered, and can provide driving forces at two different speeds, depending on the loads encountered during a log splitting operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Inventor: Edward Koch, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20090050237
    Abstract: In a wood splitter for splitting a log of wood into several pieces comprising a receiving chamber (12) for the log of wood which is limited by a stand (11;111, 107) arranged parallel to the axis of the log of wood, and transverse to the stand and relative thereto, is further limited by limit stops (4, 5) projecting in a direction normal to the said axis of the stand, with at least one limit stop being movable in the direction of the axis and at least one limit stop being designed as a splitting unit a high degree of user-friendliness and a rational method of operation may be achieved in that a splitting wedge (3) designed in the manner of an insert pin held only in the area of the base thereof is associated with the end of the receiving chamber (12), which splitting wedge (3) can accommodate a splitting insert (2) comprising an insertion pocket (13) which can be inserted into the insert pin, and further a set of tools attached to the insertion pocket (13) containing several splitting wedges (22, 24-27) which
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2008
    Publication date: February 26, 2009
    Applicant: Sheppach Fabrikation von Holzbearbeitungsmaschinen GmbH
    Inventor: Wolfgang Windrich
  • Publication number: 20080295919
    Abstract: A log splitter is being proposed for splitting a piece of wood into individual logs, with a platform for the piece of wood that is delineated on the axial sides by two stops (4, 5), which are each fitted in the normal direction to the axis of the wood to a holding part (1, 7), whereby at least one stop (5) is hydraulically operable in the axial direction and at least one stop (5) is designed as a splitting wedge. The log splitter is characterized in that a valve (2) is designed in the pressure-sided hydraulic intake cable, with which the oil pressure that drives the movable stop (5) is adjustable, with which at least one stop is movable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventor: Ernst Pfaff
  • Publication number: 20080271817
    Abstract: A tractor has a log splitter installed on two loader arms pivoted at a front end of the tractor. The log splitter includes a frame for attachment to the loader arms. The frame includes a surface, to which a ram and a wedge are coupled. An actuator mounted to the frame moves the ram and/or the wedge to split a log received between the ram and the wedge. The wedge includes a main blade and a cross blade perpendicular to the main blade. An edge of the cross blade is offset from an edge of the main blade so as to reduce the force required to achieve a four-way split of the log. The wedge and the frame are designed to enable inverting the log splitter to grasp a log, then raising the inverted log splitter to split the log directly into a truck bed. The uniquely designed hydraulic tank—ballast box combination provides an owner an external high volume hydraulic system without impeding the capability of the tractor hydraulic system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2008
    Publication date: November 6, 2008
    Inventor: Dean R. Priebe
  • Publication number: 20080251158
    Abstract: An apparatus and methods for splitting logs includes a hydraulic power unit, for driving a wedge against a log, held in a fixed position, between the wedge and an anvil. The hydraulic power unit is manually powered, and can provide driving forces at two different speeds, depending on the loads encountered during a log splitting operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2007
    Publication date: October 16, 2008
    Inventor: Edward Koch
  • Patent number: 7334615
    Abstract: A self-contained, or externally actuated, hydraulic log splitter which includes a frame on which is slidably mounted an assembly of a specially designed push plate secured at one end to a reversible hydraulic cylinder and at the other to a splitting table carrying logs which is pushed against a straight blade to split the logs. A plurality of lines of discrete nubs are integrally a part of the push plate along a majority of its entire height and positioned substantially parallel to the straight blade and spaced away from the edge of the push plate. These nubs to provide specialized and improved gripping of log segments as they are split thereby minimizing the tendency of the split log segments to fly away from the splitter. An electric or gas engine driving an hydraulic pump or the hydraulic system of a tractor is connected to drive the reversible hydraulic cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2008
    Inventor: Anthony Paradise
  • Patent number: 7255143
    Abstract: A uniquely configured quad wedge allows for the creation of a tip-up log splitter that is capable of multiple splits in a single stroke of the drive mechanism. The quad wedge is attached to the piston of a hydraulic cylinder, and is slidably mounted to a framework to allow for movement through a splitting zone. The quad wedge further includes a main splitting blade, along with a pair of splitting wings extending outwardly in a perpendicular manner. The blades each have structures on the ends thereof which are configured to help contain a log during splitting operations, thus avoiding undesired movement or wandering. The log splitter further includes a stripper mechanism positioned near the cylinder housing to allow jammed logs to be easily removed, which includes a recess to house the quad wedge when retracted. A jammed log will necessarily contact the stripper mechanism, causing it to be removed from the blade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Assignee: Northern Tool & Equipment Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen E. Babcock, Timothy C. Rancourt
  • Patent number: 7243646
    Abstract: An apparatus (10) for shearing off reinforced concrete piles and metal piles, casing and conductor pipes, and crushing reinforced concrete piles has a frame (11) with first and second ends and a cutter blade (41) movably mounted on the frame driven by hydraulic rams (21) between a retracted position adjacent to the first end and an extended position toward the second end. An abutment gate (30) pivotally mounted and latched at the frame second end has vertically spaced first and second abutment surfaces (52A, 52B) and first and second horizontal shearing surfaces (53A, 53B) disposed in parallel vertically spaced relation defining an opening (51) therebetween through which the cutting edge (41B, 41C) of the blade passes. Removable crushing attachments (60A, 60B) allow crushing of concrete piles, and removable arcuate abutment attachments (54) accommodate cylindrical piles, casing and conductor pipes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2007
    Inventor: James J. Todack
  • Patent number: 7134464
    Abstract: A log splitter which includes an elongated frame having a reservoir for hydraulic fluid a wedge secured to one end of the frame and a hydraulic cylinder and ram/piston secured to the other end of the frame. The ram/piston being movable toward and away from the wedge. The reservoir includes an inlet and outlet and a discharge tube associated with the inlet or outlet and having a length effective to discharge incoming fluid into the reservoir at a position remote from the inlet to prevent short circuiting. A log splitter and arm for mounting the splitter to a vehicle having a hitch style receiver secured to the rear of the vehicle. The splitter is adapted to be secured to an elongated arm and supported above the ground. The splitter's linear working action is substantially normal to the vehicle's direction of movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: Brave Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas Michael Walker, Christopher Gerard Walker
  • Patent number: 7124794
    Abstract: A bi-directional log splitter having at least two stationary splitting wedges and a moveable ram therebetween for splitting wood, said splitter being mounted on a trailer where the splitter exerts a substantially equal force for both the exertion and the retraction strokes to increase the production of split wood.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Inventor: Daniel A. Marx
  • Patent number: 7104295
    Abstract: A log splitting system comprises a splitter box, having top, bottom and sidewalls, and open entrance and discharge ends. A first set of cutting blades secured adjacent to the entrance end divides the entrance end into at least two, first sections. A second set of cutting blades, secured adjacent to the first set of cutting blades and opposite the entrance end, further divides each splitter box's first section into at least two, second sections. A ram assembly with a force applying surface moveable toward the splitter box's entrance end contacts a log with the first set of cutting blades. The ram member's surface has a plurality of surface portions, each sized to fit into one of the splitter box's first section, to further contact the log with the second set of cutting blades, splitting the log into at least four pieces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Assignee: Multitek, Inc.
    Inventors: Norman Heikkinen, David Foytik
  • Patent number: 7066223
    Abstract: A hydraulic log splitter attachment for a skid steer loader includes a mounting framework attached to a vertical elongate beam. A piston/cylinder combination with a rod for movement between retracted and downwardly extended configurations mounts to the beam. A wedge attaches to a lower end of the rod. A base plate attaches to the beam adjacent the lower end; storage wall assemblies and stabilizing plates optionally attach to the base plate. Hoses connect the piston/cylinder combination to the loader's hydraulic system. Wedge guides slidably attach the wedge to the beam. The wedge guides optionally include wedge guide rollers; the wedge optionally includes wedge rollers. The loader secures to the mounting framework. Wood is placed on the base plate while the rod is in the retracted configuration. The rod moves to the downwardly extended configuration, thus splitting the wood with the wedge. The storage wall assemblies provide split wood storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Inventor: Mark O. Stone
  • Patent number: 7011123
    Abstract: A new or retrofit block hoist for conventional, hydraulic-powered log splitters assists in the lifting, maneuvering, and positioning of large diameter, heavy logs that require multiple radial splits to section them for firewood, comprising a boom, pulley and cable system. A boom assembly is secured to the top end of the splitter guide beam and pulleys guide a lifting cable anchored to the wedge slide to a log section retainer means (dog or awl). The upward, hydraulically-powered movement of the cutting wedge along the I-beam lifts the log section as the wedge is raised into its upward, retracted position. Once lifted, the log is swung into position between the wedge and splitter foot plate. The wedge is then power extended (lowered), splitting the log. An optional turntable is securable to the footplate. The inventive block hoist can be provided as a kit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2006
    Inventor: Byron Peterson
  • Patent number: 6769464
    Abstract: A log splitter system for splitting logs in an efficient manner. The log splitter system includes a support beam, a loader connecting structure for attaching to a tractor loader, a main engaging member slidably attached to the support beam, a splitting wedge attached to an end of the support beam, and an actuator unit attached to the main engaging member. The actuator unit forces the main engaging member toward the splitting wedge with a log positioned between thereof thereby splitting the log.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2004
    Inventor: Sandra L. Jenkin