Abstract: Apparatus for shaping a flitch includes an upper shaping head assembly for shaping an upper surface of the flitch, a lower shaping head assembly for shaping a lower surface of the flitch, and a groover assembly for placing at least one groove in a surface of the flitch. The apparatus further includes at least one centering arm and chain runner assembly. The at least one centering arm and chain runner assembly includes a chain runner assembly for conveying the flitch toward a transverse center of the centering arm and chain runner assembly, and a centering arm assembly for positioning the flitch. A flitch transport conveyor includes a conveyor frame, a first dogger arm assembly for engaging a first end of the flitch, and a second dogger arm assembly for engaging a second end of the flitch.

Abstract: A system for lineally transporting logs, lugs therefor, and an associated method are provided. The system includes first and second tracks that are machined and connected to a frame to provide continuous track surfaces. The first track, which is formed of portions that are keyed to the frame, defines a nonlinear cross section. Lugs having support surfaces that correspond to the track surfaces are configured to be driven longitudinally along the tracks, and the non-linear contour of the first track prevents the lugs from moving transversely. The track portions are machined to define track surfaces, and the first track portions are keyed to the frame so that the first track portions are substantially collinear and the first track surface is uniform and continuous in the longitudinal direction of the track, thereby reducing transverse motion of the log during transport.

Abstract: A system for lineally transporting logs, lugs therefor, and an associated method are provided. The system includes first and second tracks that are machined and connected to a frame to provide continuous track surfaces. The first track, which is formed of portions that are keyed to the frame, defines a nonlinear cross section. Lugs having support surfaces that correspond to the track surfaces are configured to be driven longitudinally along the tracks, and the non-linear contour of the first track prevents the lugs from moving transversely. The track portions are machined to define track surfaces, and the first track portions are keyed to the frame so that the first track portions are substantially collinear and the first track surface is uniform and continuous in the longitudinal direction of the track, thereby reducing transverse motion of the log during transport.

Abstract: An infeed table for delivering pieces of lumber to a planer machine is characterized by separate and independent lateral and longitudinal drive mechanisms to continuously deliver the lumber to the planer at the speed of the planer feedworks without damaging the pieces of lumber. The infeed table includes a frame having a longitudinal linebar connected therewith. A plurality of longitudinally spaced transfer chains laterally transfer pieces of lumber successively against the linebar. A plurality of independently driven press roller assemblies are connected with the frame adjacent the linebar in longitudinally spaced relation for transporting the pieces of lumber in sequence into the planer machine. A control device is connected with the roller assemblies to control the rotational speed thereof to accurately and efficiently transport successive pieces of lumber to the planer machine.

Abstract: A system for transporting a log through one or more work stations. The system includes a first conveyor having a pair of endless conveyor chains arranged side-by-side a spaced apart distance. The system also includes a second conveyor having a single endless conveyor chain. At least a portion of the conveyor chain of the second conveyor extends between the conveyor chains of the first conveyor whereby a log can be transferred between the first and second conveyor without any loss of positive support and the like.