Patent ID: 6978879
Filing Date: 2005-12-27
Classification: B07C,B65G

Abstract:
1. A machine for conveying and singulating logs, comprising: a frame having a front end, a rear end, and a pair of opposite side walls; one or more upper log-bearing surfaces supported by the frame and arranged along an inclined conveying path that extends from the front end toward the rear end of the frame; one generally horizontal shaft rotatably mounted between the side walls along the conveying path; lift arms mounted on the shaft for rotation therewith, the lift arms extending from the shaft in generally radial directions with uniform angles between circumferentially successive lift arms such that the lift arms are balanced on the shaft; and a drive system for rotatably driving the shaft so as to rotate the lift arms 360 degrees about an axis of the shaft, the lift arms of the shalt along the conveying path being configured to engage a log on a lower location of the log-bearing surfaces and lift the log over a top point to a higher location on the log-bearing surfaces, such that the log is lifted over the top point and conveyed along the conveying path toward the rear end of the frame, wherein the top point is defined by one or more surfaces that define a generally smooth contour over which the logs can be moved.