Abstract: The invention in various embodiments is directed to systems and methods for mitigating damage from a shock wave using a gas having a specific impedance less than air.

Abstract: The invention in various embodiments is directed to systems and methods for mitigating damage from a shock wave using a gas having a specific impedance less than air.

Abstract: A log splitter having a frame with a rail extending therealong, and with a log supporting bed with laterally disposed work receiving cradles arranged to move reciprocably along the rail. The frame carries the movable bed, with the bed being provided with log engaging faces at opposed ends thereof. A double-faced log splitting wedge is secured to the rail generally midway of the stroke motion of the bed, with the log splitting wedge being arranged to engage and split logs traveling within the bed. Means are provided for delivering fluid under pressure to a double-acting ram which is secured to the frame and to the movable bed, with the ram being adapted to move the bed along the reciprocatory path. A pair of split work-receiving cradles are secured to the bed and are arranged in oppositely disposed relationship laterally of the frame for receiving split log product from the splitter.