Patent ID: 6779648
Filing Date: 2004-08-24
Classification: B07C,B65G

Abstract:
A machine for conveying and singulating logs, comprising:a frame having a front end and a rear end, and a pair of opposite sides formed by a pair of spaced, generally parallel side walls; stationary members supported in the frame and defining upper log-bearing surfaces, the log-bearing surfaces being arranged along an inclined conveying path that extends from the front end toward the rear end of the frame along which logs are conveyed; a plurality of generally horizontal shafts rotatably mounted between the side walls, the shafts being generally parallel to one another and spaced apart along the conveying path; lift arms mounted on each shaft for rotation therewith; and a drive system for rotatably driving the shafts so as to rotate the sets of lift arms 360 degrees about axes of the shafts, the lift arms of each of the shafts along the conveying path engaging a log on a lower location of the log-bearing surfaces and lifting the log over a top point to a higher location on the log-bearing surfaces at which the log is engaged by the lift arms of a next one of the shafts along the conveying path, the log thus being lifted over the top points and conveyed along the conveying path to the rear end of the frame, wherein at least one of the top points is defined by one or more surfaces that define a generally smooth contour over which the logs can be moved.