Log loader

摘要

Embodiments described herein provide methods, apparatuses, and systems for moving, loading, and/or sorting logs. A log grapple may include opposing arm assemblies and independently positionable drive wheels disposed between the arms. The log grapple may be operable in a grapple mode, in which the arms are in a closed position and the drive wheels are in an open position, and a feed mode, in which the arms and the drive wheels are in closed positions. In feed mode, the first and second drive wheels may be rotated to drive the log through the arms. The log grapple may be further configured to delimb, measure, and/or cut logs in the feed mode. A log grapple may also include a measuring wheel assembly. Optionally, the measuring wheel assembly may include a hydraulic actuator configured to retract the measuring wheel and a gas spring configured to extend the measuring wheel.

主权项

1. A log grapple comprising:
a frame; a first arm assembly having a first shaft and at least a first pair of arms mounted along the first shaft, the first shaft coupled to the frame and defining a first axis, the first arm assembly being rotatable about the first axis; a second arm assembly having a second shaft and at least a second pair of arms mounted along the second shaft, the second shaft coupled to the frame and defining a second axis that is substantially parallel to the first axis, the second arm assembly being rotatable about the second axis; and a first and a second drive wheel assembly, the first drive wheel assembly comprising a first drive wheel and a first plurality of plates, the second drive wheel assembly comprising a second drive wheel and a second plurality of plates, the first drive wheel assembly pivotally coupled to the first shaft between the first pair of arms and rotatable about the first axis, and the second drive wheel assembly pivotally coupled to the second shaft between the second pair of arms and rotatable about the second axis, wherein the first and second pairs of arms are selectively movable from an open position to a closed position, and wherein the first and second drive wheel assemblies are selectively pivotable between an open position and a closed position independently of the first and second pairs of arms.