Abstract: An automatic cutoff saw includes a workpiece positioner comprising a plurality synchronized conveying belts driven by a single motor to position a workpiece for cutting by reciprocating, rotating saw blade.

Abstract: An improved automatic board cutoff saw that maintains better positional accuracy at higher board speeds is disclosed. The improved automatic cutoff saw includes an overhead belt conveyor including a first belt for starting, stopping and advancing the board in frictional engagement therewith over a substantial length both upstream and downstream from a crosscut saw station, as well as a second belt conveyor disposed beneath the first belt conveyor near an infeed region of the crosscut saw station for engaging the underside of the board during its advancement through therethrough. One of a pair of rollers disposed on a pivotal arm of the overhead belt conveyor, the arm being pivoted by tension in the first belt, is urged into a position whereby a board, which may be of scant height, nevertheless is positively, frictionally engaged by both belt conveyors at least during the critical infeed phase of the board-advancing operation.

Abstract: Veneer edge treatment method and apparatus are described. The apparatus includes plural work stations distributed along the length of elongate conveyor means for transporting the veneer sheets as a series into and out of the work stations, with each work station having means for working on at least one of opposed terminal edges of a veneer sheet occupying the station. Selectively controllable scarfing, glue-applying and bonding work stations are provided, and the selectively controllable conveyor sections extending thereinto, therebetween and therefrom are vacuum-assisted to maintain alignment of the veneer sheets transported thereby. Sensing means and control means measure the distances between the opposed terminal edges of successive veneer sheets and determine their lengths, permitting the apparatus to handle veneer sheets or different lengths.

Abstract: Apparatus for cleaning endless abrasive belts utilized for sanding and grinding operations, wherein substantially the entire belt is enclosed within a shroud and wherein intermittent blasts of compressed gaseous fluid are directed onto the surface of the belt as it traverses its orbital path. Specifically, the compressed gas is directed onto the surface of the belt within the shroud and at a point wherein the belt is wrapped about the surface of the roller, which opens the grid pattern slightly. The intermittent utilization of compressed gaseous fluid utilizes a substantially lower volume of compressed fluid than would be required on a continuous basis, and furthermore the arrangement has been found to clean the surfaces of abrasive belts more effectively than can be accomplished with a continuous discharge. The shroud which encloses substantially the entire length of the endless abrasive belt reduces dust discharge.