Abstract: A device for producing squared timber from tree trunks includes a feed section, a machining center, and a delivery section; the feed section has at least two grippers which can be placed against the tree trunk to be machined and using which the tree trunk is supplied to the machining center; the machining center has several plan cutters and feed rollers in order to advance the tree trunk, while it is machined by cutting at the desired locations. The square beam is transported from the machining center onto the delivery section and then removed for further machining. The grippers may be made such that they hold the tree trunk regardless of its diameter at a height which at least roughly corresponds to the axis of the machining center.

Abstract: The present invention provides an automatic lug loader to place blocks on each lug on a lug conveyor in a finger jointing machine. The lug loader includes a support structure with a control station and a feed table. A powered loading conveyor overlies the support structure with an infeed end disposed over the control station. The loading conveyor extends downstream to an outfeed end which is disposed over the upstream end of the lug conveyor. A powered adjuster is connected to the loading conveyor and shifts the loading conveyor toward and away from the control station to selectively grip a block.