GB644498A - A machine for use in bundling loose sticks or the like, particularly for making bundles of firewood - Google Patents

Abstract

644,498. Bundling - machines. SPICE, C. A., and BOWYER, F. E. Jan. 31, 1948, No. 2929. [Class 94(i)] In a machine for use in bundling firewood in which the sticks are inserted endwise into a space surrounded by movable compressing-members, the floor of the space is formed by a trapdoor which is opened automatically when the compressing-members are released to allow the tied bundle to fall through into a sack or other receptacle. The machine shown comprises a base plate 1 mounted on a framework 2 and formed with an opening 3 normally closed by trap-door 4. The plate carries a vertical pivot pin 6 on which are mounted curved compressing-members 7 which cooperate with a presser plate 10 carried by a slidable plunger 9 and fitted with hinged jaws 11 urged by a spring 12 into engagement with lever arm extensions 8 of the members 7. The plunger also carries a transverse bar 13 having down-turned ends 13a which engage ramps 14 on the lever arms to rock them towards each other against the action of a spring 15. The machine is operated by a pedal 16 which actuates through linkage 17-20 a pushrod 21 formed with a projection 27 which engages an abutment 28 on the plunger. The push-rod is guided by the engagement of a pin 25 with ramps 24 and is hinged to a sleeve 22 freely slidable on an arm 23 which is pivoted on the hinge pin 5 of the door 4 and carries an adjustable eccentric 26 engaging the underside of the door. The arrangement is such that the initial movement of the push-rod closes the door and thereafter the sleeve slides along the arm to hold the door closed while the bundle is being compressed. When the pedal is released, the sleeve slides back to the end of the arm and then opens the door to allow the bundle to fall through. The plunger 9 is fitted with a counter 29 which is operated once during each cycle of operation.