WO1987002545A1 - Procede et appareil de recolte d'arbres - Google Patents

Procede et appareil de recolte d'arbres Download PDF

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Publication number
WO1987002545A1
WO1987002545A1 PCT/US1986/002302 US8602302W WO8702545A1 WO 1987002545 A1 WO1987002545 A1 WO 1987002545A1 US 8602302 W US8602302 W US 8602302W WO 8702545 A1 WO8702545 A1 WO 8702545A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
tree
saw
vehicle
mast assembly
conduit
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US1986/002302
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
John A. O'brien, Jr.
James H. Hutson
Original Assignee
Brien John A Jr O
Hutson James Henry
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Brien John A Jr O, Hutson James Henry filed Critical Brien John A Jr O
Publication of WO1987002545A1 publication Critical patent/WO1987002545A1/fr

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
    • A01G23/00—Forestry
    • A01G23/02—Transplanting, uprooting, felling or delimbing trees
    • A01G23/08—Felling trees
    • A01G23/091—Sawing apparatus specially adapted for felling trees
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
    • A01G23/00—Forestry
    • A01G23/02—Transplanting, uprooting, felling or delimbing trees
    • A01G23/08—Felling trees
    • A01G23/083—Feller-delimbers

Definitions

  • the invention relates to tree harvesting, and, more particularly, to methods and apparatus for harvesting selected rows of a plurality of closely adjacent rows of trees.
  • Trees are routinely planted in closely adjacent rows in order to maximize the fiber content per acre. This is done with the knowledge that optimum tree growth can be achieved for about fifteen years, after which overcrowding occurs. At that time, the trees are thinned to permit further growtn and maturity of the remaining trees. Ideally, the thinning process involves the harvesting of every second or third row of trees with little or no damage to the remaining rows.
  • Known tree harvesting apparatus utilize a shear for separating a tree from its stump.
  • a shear often causes fracturing or splintering of the lower portion of the tree, thus rendering the best part (i.e., the thickest part) of the tree useless for lumber or plywood. Fracturing also makes it difficult to feed the tree through a ring or hollow tead debarker.
  • a tree harvesting apparatus may include a saw and means for moving a tree toward the saw. Obviously, serious damage could result if the means for moving the tree toward the saw were actuated while the saw was cutting through the tree. Similarly, damage could result from simultaneous performance of other functions of the tree harvesting apparatus.
  • the invention provides an apparatus for harvesting a tree, the apparatus comprising a vehicle adapted to traverse the ground, means on the vehicle for securing tne tree in the upright position, a saw for cutting through the upright tree, and means for alternately moving the saw in opposite directions through the tree.
  • the saw is mounted on the vehicle for pivotal movement about a generally vertical axis
  • the means for moving the saw includes means for causing pivotal movement of the saw about the axis.
  • the apparatus further comprises means for pulling the tree upwardly away from the saw while the saw is cutting the tree, whereby the tree is prevented from pinching the saw.
  • the invention also provides an apparatus for harvesting a tree, the apparatus comprising a vehicle adapted to traverse the ground, means on the vehicle for securing the tree in the upright position, a- saw for cutting through the upright tree, and means for pulling the tree upwardly away from the saw while the saw is cutting the tree, whereby the tree is prevented from pinching the saw.
  • the apparatus further comprises a mast assembly including an upper section, and a lower section, the securing means is mounted on the upper section, the saw is mounted on the lower section, and the pulling means includes means for moving the upper section upwardly relative to the lower section.
  • the invention also provides an apparatus for harvesting a tree, the apparatus comprising a vehicle adapted to transverse the ground, a mast assembly, means for mounting the mast assembly on the vehicle, means on the mast assembly for securing a tree in the upright position, first means for tilting the mast assembly relative to the vehicle, second, means for tilting the tree relative to the mast assembly, third means for cutting through the upright tree, fourth means for cutting through the upright tree, fifth means for moving the tree vertically relative to the mast assembly, and lockout means for disabling the fifth means in response to actuation of the first means, for disabling the third means in response to actuation of the second means, for disabling the fifth means in response to actuation of the third means, for disabling the third and fifth means in response to actuation of the fourth means, and for disabling the third means in response to actuation of the fifth means.
  • the mast assembly has a lower end, the fourth means is located adjacent the lower end, and the third means is located above the fourth means ... lit.
  • the third means includes sa" ⁇ ,- and means for alternately moving the saw in opposite directions through the tree.
  • the saw is mounted on the vehicle for pivotal movement about a generally vertical axis
  • the means for moving the saw includes means for causing pivotal movement of the saw about the axis.
  • the invention also provides an apparatus for harvesting a tree having a longitudinal axis and opposite first and second sides, the apparatus comprising a vehicle adapted to traverse the ground, and means for tilting the tree relative to the vehicle and including a first member mounted on the vehicle and being movable into engagement with the first side of the tree, a second member mounted on the vehicle and being moveable into engagement with the second side of the tree, the second member being spaced from the first member in the direction axially of the tree, and means for simultaneously moving the first and second members into engagement with the tree.
  • the invention also provides an apparatus for harvesting a tree having opposite first and second sides, the apparatus comprising a vehicle adapted to traverse the ground, means for securing the tree in the upright position, and means for tilting the tree in opposite directions relative to the vehicle and including a first upper member movable into engagement with the first side to the tree, a first lower member spaced beneath the first upper member and moveable into engagement with the first side of the tree, a second upper member spaced above the first lower member and movable into engagement with the second side of the tree, and a second lower member spaced beneath the first upper member and moveable into engagement with the second side of the tree, means for simultaneously moving the first upper member and the second lower member into ⁇ engagement with the tree, and means for simultaneously moving the first lower member and the second upper member into engagement with the tree.
  • a principal feature of the invention is the provision of a tree harvesting apparatus including a saw for cutting through a tree, and means for alternately moving the saw in opposite directions through the tree. Since it takes longer to move the saw from one side to the other than it takes to move the tree into position to be cut again, this shortens the time necessary to cut a tree into logs. Instead -of waiting for the saw to return to its original position before moving the tree downwardly to be cut again, the apparatus simply moves the tree downwardly and then the saw cuts through the tree in the opposite direction of the previous cut.
  • Another principal feature of the invention is the provision of a tree harvesting apparatus including a saw for cutting through a tree, and means for pulling the tree upwardly away from the saw while the saw is cutting the tree.
  • the means for pulling the tree upwardly prevents the weight of the tree from pinching the saw.
  • a tree harvesting apparatus including operator actuated means for performing various functions, and lockout means -for disabling operator actuation of certain of these means in response to operator actuation of certain others of these means.
  • the lockout means disables the means for moving the tree downwardly in response to operator actuation of the saw.
  • the lockout means prevents the serious damage that could result from inadvertent, simultaneous operator actuation of certain of the functions of the apparatus.
  • this tilting means utilizes clamping members which also serve to secure the tree to the vehicle.
  • Fig. 1 is a partial side elevational view of an apparatus embodying the invention.
  • Fig. 2 is a front view of the apparatus shown in Fig. 1.
  • Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 3-3 in Fig. 2.
  • Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 in Fig. 2.
  • Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 5-5 in Fig. 2.
  • Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 in Fig. 2.
  • Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 7-7 in Fig. 1.
  • Figs. 8-14 are schematic front views of the apparatus illustrating the steps of the method of the invention.
  • Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view taken along 15-15 in Fig. 1.
  • Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 16-16 in Fig. 1.
  • Fig. 17 is a front elevational view, similar to Fig. 2, of an apparatus 100 which is an alternative embodiment of the invention.
  • Fig. 18 is a schematic view of the hydraulic circuit of the apparatus shown in Fig. 17.
  • Fig. 19 is a schematic view of the electrical circuit of the apparatus shown in Figs. 17 and.18.
  • Fig. 20 is a chart showing the operation of the control circuit shown in Fig. 19.
  • Fig. 21 is a side elevational view of an apparatus 400 which is a second alternative embodiment of the invention.
  • Fig. 22 is a front view of the apparatus 400.
  • the apparatus comprises a vehicle 10 (partially shown) adapted to traverse the ground. While any suitable vehicle can be used, in the preferred embodiment, the vehicle 10 is a conventional front end loader with the shovel removed.
  • the apparatus further comprises a mast assembly 12.
  • the mast assembly 12 has upper and lower ends and includes a pair of spaced apart, generally vertical members 14 interconnected by a plurality of generally horizontal braces 16.
  • the apparatus further comprises means for mounting the mast assembly 12 on the vehicle 10. While various suitable mounting means can be employed, in the preferred embodiment, the mounting means includes a generally U-shaped main brace 18 having a base portion 20 (Figs. 2 and 7) and a pair of generally parallel legs 22 with inner ends integrally connected to the base portion 20, and with outer ends connected to the vehicle 10 for rotation about a horizontal axis 24 (Fig. 1) .
  • the mast assembly 12 is connected to the base portion 20 of the main brace 18 by means described hereinafter.
  • the mounting means preferably further includes means for moving the mast assembly 12 vertically relative to the vehicle 10. While many suitable mast assembly moving means can be used, in the preferred embodiment, such means includes (see Fig.
  • a pair of linear hydraulic motors 26 (only one is shown) connected between the vehicle 10 and respective legs 22 of the main brace 18. Extension and contraction of the hydraulic motors 26 respectively causes raising and lowering of the mast assembly 12 by reason of rotation of the main brace 18 about the axis 24.
  • the mounting means preferably further includes means for tilting the mast assembly 12 relative to the vehicle 10. While various suitable tilting means can be employed, in the illustrated construction, the tilting means includes means for rotating the mast assembly 12 about a first horizontal axis 28 (Figs. 1 and 2) , and means for rotating the mast assembly 12 about a second horizontal axis 30 (Figs. 1, 2, 6 and 7) perpendicular to the first horizontal axis 28.
  • the first horizontal axis 28 extends generally longitudinally of the vehicle 10
  • the second horizontal axis 30 extends transversely of the vehicle 10.
  • the mounting means preferably further comprises an intermediate brace 32 connected to the mast, assembly 12 in a manner described hereinafter.
  • the intermediate brace 32 includes a pair of spaced apart, vertical members 34 (Figs. 1 and 7) interconnected by a first horizontal member 36 (Figs. 2 and 7) , with a second horizontal member 38 (Figs. 1 and 7) extending rearwardly from the first horizontal member 36.
  • the intermediate brace 32 is connected to the main brace 18 for rotation relative thereto about the first axis 28. While any suitable means can be employed for connecting the intermediate brace 32 to the main brace 18, in the preferred embodiment, the second horizontal member 38 of the intermediate brace 32 is pivotally connected to the base portion 20 of the main brace 18.
  • the means for rotating the mast assembly 12 about the first axis 28 includes a linear hydraulic motor 40 (Figs. 2 and 7) between the main brace 18 and the intermediate brace 32. Extension and contraction of the hydraulic motor 40 causes rotation of the intermediate brace 32 about the first axis 28.
  • the lower end of the mast assembly 12 is connected to the intermediate brace 32 (specifically to the lower ends of the vertical members 34) for rotation relative thereto about the second axis 30, and the means for rotating the mast assembly 12 about the second axis 30 includes a pair of linear hydraulic motors 42 (Figs. 1 and 2) connected between the intermediate brace 32 and the lower end of the mast assembly 12. Extension and contraction of the hydraulic motors 42 causes rotation of the mast assembly 12 relative to the intermediate braae 32 about the second axis 30.
  • the apparatus further comprises means on tie- vehicle 10 for securing a tree in the upright position.
  • the securing means includes clamping means mounted on the mast assembly 12.
  • the clamping means includes clamping members 44 and 46, respectively.
  • the mast assembly 12 includes a pair of vertically spaced apart, horizontal plates 48 (Figs. 1-3) mounted between the vertical members 14 of the mast assembly 12', and the clamping members 44 and 46 are pivotally mounted on vertical rods 50 (Fig. 2) extending between the plates 48.
  • the clamping members 44 and 46 are movable between closed and open positions for respectively engaging and disengaging the tree.
  • such means includes (see Figs. 2 and 4) a linear hydraulic motor 52 connected between the mast assembly 12 and the clamping member 44, and a linear hydraulic motor 54 connected between the mast assembly 12 and the clamping member 46. Extension and contraction of the hydraulic motors 52 and 54 causes rotation of the clamping members 44 and 46.
  • the apparatus further comprises means for moving the upright tree vertically relative to the 1
  • the moving means includes the above-mentioned means for moving the mast assembly 12 relative to the vehicle 10, and means for moving the tree vertically relative to the mast assembly 12.
  • suitable means can be employed for moving the tree relative to the mast assembly 12, in the preferred embodiment, such means includes roller means for engaging the opposite sides of. the tree, and for moving the tree vertically relative to the mast assembly 12.
  • the roller means includes (see Figs. 1 and 2) horizontally spaced apart rollers 56 and 58, respectively, rotatable about horizontal axes.
  • suitable means can be used for causing rotation of the rollers 56 and 58, in the preferred embodiment, such means includes (see Fig. 1) rotary hydraulic motors 60 (only one is shown) drivingly connected to the rollers 56 and 58.
  • rollers 56 and 58 are horizontally movable toward and away from each other or between closed and open positions for respectively engaging and disengaging the tree. Any suitable means can be used for moving the rollers 56 and 58 toward and away from each other.
  • the rollers 56 and 58 are respectively and rotatably mounted on roller plates 62 and 64 which are, in turn, respectively and rotatably mounted on brackets 66 and 68 for rotation relative thereto about respective horizontal axes 70 and 72.
  • the brackets 66 and 68 are fixedly mounted on the vertical members 14 of the mast assembly 12.
  • roller plates 62 and 64 are interconnected by a rod 74 having a first end pivotally connected to the roller plate 62 at a point beneath the axis 70, and a second end pivotally connected to the roller plate 64 at a point abov ⁇ . the axis 72. Accordingly, with reference to Fig. 2,, ⁇ clockwise rotation of the left roller plate 62 will cause the left roller 56 to move toward the right roller 58 and will cause the rod 74 to rotate the right roller plate 64 counter-clockwise so that the right roller 58 moves toward the left roller 56.
  • the means for moving the rollers 56 and 58 toward and away from each other preferably further includes a linear hydraulic motor 76 connected between the left roller pl te 62 and the mast assembly 12 for causing rotation f: tire- left roller plate 62 about the axis 70. "
  • the hydraulic motor 76 and the first end of the rod 74 are connected to the roller plate 62 by connecting members 77.
  • each of the rollers 56 and 58 is preferably serrated around its circumference in order to provide better traction between the rollers 56 and 58 and the tree.
  • the clamping members 44 and 46 are located above the rollers 56 and 58.
  • the securing means also includes the rollers 56 and 58. It should be understood that in alternative embodiments the securing means can include only the rollers 56 and 58 and not the clamping members 44 and 46.
  • the apparatus further comprises means on the vehicle 10 for cutting through the upright tree. While various suitable cutting means can be used, in the illustrated construction, the cutting means is mounted on the mast assembly 12 and includes shearing means adjacent the lower end of the mast assembly 12. While various suitable shearing means can be employed, in the preferred embodiment, the shearing means includes a conventional, hydraulically operated shear assembly 78. The shear assembly 78 is movable from an open position to a closed position for cutting through the tree. Hydraulic motors 79 control opening and closing of the shear assembly 78. In the preferred embodiment, the cutting means further includes sawing means mounted on the mast assembly 12 above the shearing means. While various suitable sawing means can be employed, in the preferred embodiment, the sawing means includes (see Figs.
  • a chain saw 80 mounted on the mast assembly 12 for rotation about the axis 82 relative thereto about a generally vertical axis 82 (Fig. 5) , a rotary hydraulic motor 83 for actuating the chain saw 80, and a rotary hydraulic motor: 84 (Figs. 1 and 5) for rotating the chain saw 80 relative to the mast assembly 12.
  • Rotation of the actuated chain saw 80 causes the blade of the saw 80 to pass through a tree secured by the clamping means and the roller means.
  • the chain saw 80 is located below the rollers 56 and 58.
  • the apparatus preferably further comprises means on the vehicle 10 for delimbing the tree as it is lowered relative to the vehicle 10. While various suitable delimbing means can be used, in the illustrated construction, the delimbing means includes (see Figs. 1-3) a delimber 86 fixedly mounted on the mast assembly 12 (specifically on the upper plate 48) above the rollers 56 and 58. The delimbing means preferably also includes the clamping means, as explained hereinafter.
  • the apparatus preferably further comprises means for removing a log from the apparatus. While various suitable removing means can be employed, in the preferred embodiment, the removing means includes (see Figs. 1 and 2) a kicker plate 88 mounted beneath the chain saw 80 for rotation about a vertical axis 90 (Fig. 1) .
  • the kicker plate 88 is connected to the chain saw 80 by a torsion spring 92, and angular displacement of the chain saw 80 relative to the kicker plate 88 loads the spring 92 so that the spring 92 biases the chain saw 80 and kicker plate 88 toward each U other. Since the position of the chain saw 80 is controlled, the spring 92 effectively biases the kicker plate 88 toward the chain saw 80.
  • the apparatus performs the method of the invention as follows. As shown in Fig. 8, with the shear assembly 78, the rollers 56 and 58, and the clamping " members 44 and 46 in the open position, the vehicle 10 is maneuvered so that a tree is located within the open shear assembly 78. If the tree is not straight, or not parallel to the mast assembly 12, the hydraulic motor 40 and/or the hydraulic motors 26 are actuated to rotate the mast assembly 12 about the first and/or second axes 28 and 30 so that the mast assembly 12 is parallel to the tree. As shown in Fig. 9, once the mast assembly 12 is parallel to the tree, the rollers 56 and 58 and clamping members 44 and 46 are closed to secure the tree in the upright position, and the shear assembly 78 is closed to separate the tree from its stump while the tree is maintained in the upright position.
  • the rollers 56 and 58 are activated to move the tree upwardly relative to the mast assembly 12. This permits a log cut from the bottom of the tree to clear the shear assembly 78 when the kicker plate 88 removes the log from the mast assembly 12.
  • the clamping members 44 and 46 maintain a "floating grip" so as to allow vertical movement of the tree relative to the clamping members but so as to prevent any significant horizontal movement of the tree relative to the mast assembly 12.
  • clamping members 44 and 46 maintain a constant pressure on the tree so that the clamping members 44 and 46 open slightly when the tree is being raised or when a swelled portion of the trunk or a sizable knot passes through the clamping members, but so that the clamping members close further as the tree diameter decreases.
  • each of the clamping members 44 and 46 preferably has an arcuate inner surface 47, and an upper edge 49 which forms a shearing or delimbing edge.
  • the arcuate inner surface 47 causes the clamping members to have a funnel effect on the tree as it moves upwardly or downwardly through the clamping members. In other words, there is a camming action between the clamping members and the tree, whereby the clamping members follow the outer surface of the tree. This facilitates opening and closing of the clamping members in response to changes in the diameter of the tree and facilitates passage of the tree through the clamping members.
  • the mast assembly 12 can be raised relative to the vehicle 10.
  • the hydraulic motors 26 are extended to raise the mast assembly 12 and the captured tree relative to the vehicle 10 by reason of rotation of the main brace 18 about the axis 24.
  • the hydraulic motors 42 are extended to tilt the mast assembly 12 forwardly relative to the main brace 18 by reason of rotation of the mast assembly 12 about the axis 30, thereby maintaining the tree in a vertical position. This step is not shown in the drawings.
  • the rollers 56 and 58 are deactivated and the chain saw 80 is rotated as shown in Fig. 11 so as to cut through the tree while the tree is maintained in the upright position.
  • the length of the log cut will be equal to the distance between the shear assembly 78 and the chain saw 80 minus the distance that the. tree is moved upwardly by the rollers 56 and 58. These distances can be controlled to give the desired log length.
  • the kicker plate 88 contacts the side of the tree beneath the saw 80.
  • the kicker plate 88 remains against the side of the tree, and, as the saw progresses through the tree, the angular displacement between the saw 80 and the kicker plate 88 increases. This results in a loading of the spring 92 so that the kicker plate 88 is biased against the tree and toward the chain saw 80. While the saw 80 is cutting through the tree, the force of the kicker plate 88 on the tree keeps the saw cut or kerf open, thereby preventing pinching of the saw 80. When the cut is complete, as shown in Fig. 12, the spring 92 moves the kicker plate 88 toward the chain saw 80, thereby removing the log from beneath the remainder of the tree by throwing the log sideways and clear of the mast assembly 12.
  • the rollers 56 and 58 are activated as shown in Fig. 13 to move the tree downwardly relative to the mast assembly 12 while the tree is maintained in the upright position.
  • the tree is moved downwardly a predetermined distance equal to the desired log length. While the tree is moving downwardly it is delimbed by the delimber 86 and by the upper edges of the clamping members 44 and 46. Also, the clamping members 44 and 46 maintain the previously-mentioned "floating grip" on the tree.
  • the chain saw 80 then cuts through the tree in the reverse direction from the previous cut, as shown in Fig. 14. When the cut is complete, the kicker plate 88 throws the log in the reverse direction from the direction of the previous log.
  • the mast assembly 12 When the useful portion of the tree has been cut into logs, the mast assembly 12 is tilted to either the left or the right, the clamping members 44 and 46 are opened, and the rollers 56 and 58 are activated to expel the top of the tree from the mast assembly 12.
  • rollers 56 and 58 are opened, the shear assembly 78 is opened, the mast assembly 12 is returned to the vertical position, and the vehicle 10 is moved to the next tree.
  • FIG. 17-20 An apparatus 100 which is an alternative embodiment of the invention is illustrated in Figs. 17-20.
  • the apparatus 100 is substantially identical to the apparatus of the preferred embodiment, except for the additional features described below, and common elements have been given the same reference numerals. Furthermore, because the apparatus 100 is substantially identical to the apparatus of the preferred embodiment, portions of the apparatus 100 not shown in Figs. 17-20 will be described by reference to Figs. 1-7.
  • the apparatus 100 includes an additional pair of clamps 110 and 112 mounted on the mast assembly 12.
  • the clamps 110 and 112 are respectively actuated by hydraulic assemblies 114 and 116 which are substantially identical to hydraulic assemblies 52 and 54.
  • clamps 44 and 110 are located on the left of the tree and clamps 46 and 112 are located on the right of the tree. Also, the clamps are arranged in the following order from top to bottom: 46, 44, 110 and 112.
  • the clamps 110 and 112 can be located below the rollers 56 and 58 rather than above the rollers 56 and 58.
  • the clamps 44 and 46 would be located above the rollers 56 and 58 and the clamps 110 and 112 would be located below the rollers 56 and 58. With this arrangement, the clamps would tend to center the tree between the rollers 56 and 58.
  • the rollers 56 and 58 can be closed and opened or moved toward and away from each other by two separate hydraulic assemblies 76 rather than by a single hydraulic assembly 76.
  • the roller plate 64 can be pivoted by a second hydraulic assembly 76 in a manner similar to that in which the hydraulic assembly 76 of the preferred embodiment pivots the left roller plate 62.
  • each of the rollers 56 and 58 is free to move away from the vertical centerline of the mast assembly 12 independently of the other of the rollers 56 and 58..* Therefore, the individual rollers can follow irregularities, such as knots, on the sides of the tree, and a knot on one side of the tree will not cause both rollers to move away from the tree. This will enable the rollers 56 and 58 to maintain a better grip on the tree.
  • the apparatus 100 like the apparatus of the preferred embodiment, comprises means for securing a tree in the upright position.
  • the securing means of the apparatus 100 includes the clamping members 44, 46, 110 and 112 and the rollers 56 and 58.
  • the apparatus 100 also comprises means for ejecting the unused top portion of a tree from the mast assembly 12. While various suitable ejecting means can be employed, in the illustrated construction, the ejecting means includes the rollers 56 and 58. Specifically, the unused portion of the tree is ejected by opening all of the clamping members 44, 46, 110 and 112 and actuating the hydraulic motors 60 to cause the rollers 56 and 58 to move the tree upwardly relative to the mast assembly 12.
  • the apparatus 100 further comprises means for tilting or rotating the tree relative to the mast assembly 12. While various suitable tilting means can be used, in the alternative embodiment, the tilting means includes the clamping members 44, 46, 110 and 112. The tilting means also ' includes means for simultaneously closing clamping members 44 and 112, i.e., moving clamping members 44 and 112 into engagement with the tree, and means for simultaneously closing clamping members 46 and 110, i.e., moving clamping members 46 and 110 into engagement with the tree.
  • the hydraulic circuit (described hereinafter) is such that the hydraulic assemblies 52 and 116 are actuated simultaneously, and the hydraulic assemblies 54 and 114 are. actuated simultaneously, so that clamp 112 opens when clamp 44 opens and closes when clamp 44 closes, and clamp 110 opens when clamp 46 opens and closes when clamp 46 closes. Also, clamps 44 and 112 are operated independently of clamps 46 and 110.
  • the means for tilting the tree relative to the mast assembly 12 could include only three clamping members.
  • clamping member 110 could be eliminated.
  • the means for tilting or rotating the tree clockwise would include means for simultaneously closing clamping members 44 and 112
  • the means for tilting or rotating the tree counterclockwise would include means for simultaneously closing the clamping members 44 and 46.
  • the apparatus 100 also comprises means for raising and lowering the rear of the vehicle 20. While various suitable means can be used, in the alternative embodiment, the raising and lowering means includes a conventional hydraulic assembly 310 (shown only schematically in Figure 18) .
  • the apparatus 100 also comprises means (not shown) for lubricating the saw 80. This means is actuated by a hydraulic assembly 170.
  • the apparatus 100 also comprises a hydraulic circuit which is illustrated in Fig. 18.
  • the circuit includes a hydraulic fluid reservoir 116, and a pair of pumps 118 and 120.
  • the pump 120 includes an inlet 122 communicating with the reservoir 116, and an outlet 124.
  • a conduit 126 communicates between the pump outlet 124 and the reservoir 116.
  • the hydraulic circuit includes a three position, spring centered valve 128 which communicates with conduit 126.
  • Valve 128 is actuated by solenoids 129 and 131.
  • Conduits 130 and 132 communicate between valve 128 and the opposite ports of hydraulic motor 84.
  • Flow control valves 136 and 138 in conduits 130 and 132, respectively, govern the speed of rotation of saw 80.
  • a relief valve 140 communicates with the conduits 130 and 132 through check valves 142 and 144, respectively, and limits the force with which the saw 80 will contact the tree. The reduced setting of this relief valve 140 as compared to the setting of relief valve 248 reduces heat generation and increases efficiency.
  • Relief valve 140 communicates with reservoir 116 via conduits 146, 147, 148 and 150.
  • a manually operable needle valve 152 communicates between conduits 130 and 132 in parallel with motor 84. Opening of needle valve 152 permits manual movement of the saw 80 for servicing.
  • valve 128 When neither of solenoids 129 and 131 is actuated, valve 128 is in the center position, valve 128 does not interrupt fluid flow through conduit 126, and conduits 130 and 132 are not in communication with conduit 126.
  • solenoid 129 When solenoid 129 is actuated, valve 128 is in the right position and fluid is diverted from conduit 126 to conduit 130 and is returned to conduit 126 through conduit 132.
  • solenoid 131 When solenoid 131 is actuated, fluid is diverted from conduit 126 to conduit 132 and is returned to conduit 126 through conduit 130.
  • actuation of solenoid 129 rotates the saw 80 to the left and actuation of solenoid 131 rotates the saw 80 to the right.
  • the hydraulic circuit also includes a three position, spring centered selector valve 154 which communicates with conduit 126 downstream of valve 128.
  • Valve 154 is actuated by solenoid 156. (Only one solenoid is used because valve 154 is never moved to its left position.)
  • a conduit 158 communicates with valve 154, and a relief valve 159 permits communication, via conduits 148 and 150, between conduit 158 and reservoir 116 when the pressure in conduit 158 exceeds a predetermined value.
  • valve 154 When solenoid 156 is not actuated, valve 154 is in the middle position, valve 154 does not interrupt flow through conduit 126, and conduit 158 does not communicate with conduit 126. When solenoid 156 is actuated, valve 154 is in the right position and fluid is diverted from conduit 126 to conduit 158.
  • the circuit also includes a three position, spring centered valve 172 which communicates with conduit 158 via a conduit 174.
  • valve 172 is connected in parallel with valve 160.
  • Valve 172 is actuated by solenoids 182 and 184.
  • a valve arrangement 176 in conduit 174 includes an adjustable restrictor which limits fluid flow and a reducing relief valve which communicates with the reservoir via a conduit 178, conduit 148 and conduit 150.
  • Valve 172 communicates with reservoir 116 via conduits 180, 147, 148, and 150.
  • Conduit 186 communicates between valve 172 and both the left end of hydraulic assembly 114 and the right end of hydraulic assembly 54.
  • Conduit 188 communicates between valve 172 and both the right end of hydraulic assembly 114 and the left end of hydraulic assembly 54.
  • valve 172 controls actuation of • hydraulic assemblies 54 and 114, which assemblies in turn control clamping members 46 and 110.
  • the reducing relief valve in valve arrangement 176 limits the force applied to the tree by the clamping members and causes the clamping members to exert a substantially constant pressure on the tree regardless of changes in the d ⁇ a ⁇ reter of the tree.
  • valve 172 When neither of solenoids 182 and 184 is actuated, valve 172 is in the center position and ⁇ conduits 180, 186 and 188 are prevented from communicating with conduit 174.
  • solenoid 182 When solenoid 182 is actuated, valve 172 is in the right position, conduit 174 communicates with conduit 186 and conduit 188 communicates with conduit 180.
  • solenoid 184 When solenoid 184 is actuated, valve 172 is in the left position, conduit 174 communicates with conduit 188 and conduit 186 communicates with conduit 180.
  • the circuit also includes a three position, spring centered valve 190 which communicates, via conduit 192, with conduit 158 downstream of conduit 174.
  • valve 190 is connected in parallel with valves 160 and 172.
  • Solenoids 194 and 196 actuate valve 190.
  • a valve arrangement 198 in conduit 192 includes an adjustable restrictor which limits fluid flow and a reducing relief valve which communicates with reservoir 116 via conduits 200, 148 and 150.
  • Valve 190 communicates with reservoir 116 via conduits 191, 148 and 150.
  • Conduit 202 communicates between valve 190 and both the right end of hydraulic assembly 116 and the left end of hydraulic assembly 52.
  • Conduit 204 communicates between valve 190 and both the left end of hydraulic assembly 116 and the right end of . hydraulic assembly 52.
  • valve 190 controls actuation of hydraulic assemblies 52 and 116, which assemblies in turn control clamping members 44 and 112.
  • the reducing relief valve in valve arrangement 198 serves the same purpose as the relief valve in valve arrangement 176.
  • valve 190 When neither solenoid 194 nor 196 is actuated, valve 190 is in the center position and conduits 202 and 204 are prevented from communicating with conduit 192.
  • solenoid 194 When solenoid 194 is actuated, valve 190 is in the right position and conduit 192 communicates with conduit 202.
  • solenoid 196 When solenoid 196 is actuated, valve 190 is in the left position and conduit 192 communicates with conduit 204.
  • the circuit also includes a three position, spring centered valve 206 which communicates, via conduit 208, with conduit 158 downstream of conduit 192.
  • valve 206 is connected in parallel with valves 160, 172 and 190.
  • Solenoids 210 and 212 actuate valve 206.
  • a valve arrangement 214 in conduit 208 includes an adjustable restrictor which limits fluid flow and a reducing relief valve which communicates with reservoir 116 via conduits 216, 164 and 150.
  • Valve 206 communicates with reservoir 116 via conduits 218, 164 and 150.
  • Conduit 220 communicates between valve 206 and one end of hydraulic assembly 76, and conduit 222 communicates between valve 206 and the other end of hydraulic assembly 76. Accordingly, valve 206 controls actuation of hydraulic assembly 76. (It should be noted that in the above-discussed alternative embodiment including a second hydraulic assembly 76, the second assembly would be connected to valve 206 in parallel with the first assembly.)
  • the reducing relief valve in valve arrangement 214 serves the same purpose as the reducing relief valves in valve arrangements 176 and 198.
  • valve 206 When neither solenoid 210 nor 212 is actuated, valve 206 is in the center position and conduits 218, 220 and 222 are prevented from communicating with conduit 208.
  • solenoid 210 When solenoid 210 is actuated, valve 206 is in the right position, conduit 208 communicates with conduit 220 and conduit 222 communicates with conduit 218.
  • solenoid 212 When solenoid 212 is actuated, valve 206 is in the left position, conduit 2Q& communicates with conduit 222 and conduit 220 communicates with conduit 218.
  • the hydraulic circuit also includes a two position, offset valve 160 which is actuated by a solenoid 162.
  • Valve 160 communicates with conduit 158 downstream of valve 206 and with reservoir 116 via a conduit 164 and conduit 150.
  • Conduits 166 and 168 communicate between valve 160 and hydraulic assembly 170, which actuates the means for lubricating the saw 80.
  • valve 160 When solenoid 162 is not actuated, valve 160 is in the right position, conduit 158 communicates with conduit 166 and conduit 168 communicates with conduit 164. When solenoid 162 is actuated, valve 160 is in the left position, conduit 158 communicates with conduit 168 and conduit 166 communicates with conduit 164.
  • valve 154 controls fluid flow to conduit 158 and thus to. valves 172, 190, 206 and 160.
  • solenoid 156 When solenoid 156 is not actuated, fluid is not diverted from conduit 126 to conduit 158, and parallel valves 172, 190, 206 and 160 do not receive fluid.
  • solenoid 156 When solenoid 156 is actuated, fluid is diverted from conduit 126 to conduit 158 and parallel valves 172, 190, 206 and 160 receive fluid. Valves 172, 190, 206 and 160 are in parallel because the functions controlled by these valves are often performed simultaneously. Because there is no fluid return to valve 154, and because valves 172, 190, 206 and 160 return fluid to reservoir 116 and not to conduit 126, actuation of solenoid 156 disables the below-described valves downstream of valve 154.
  • the circuit also includes a three position, spring centered valve 224 which communicates with conduit 126 downstream of valve 154.
  • Valve 224 can be actuated by any suitable means.
  • Conduit 228 communicates between valve 224 and the right ends of both hydraulic assemblies 26, and conduit 230 communicates between valve 224 and the left ends of both hydraulic assemblies 26.
  • valve 224 When valve 224 is in the center position, valve 224 does not interrupt flow through conduit 126, and conduits 228 and 230 are prevented from communicating with conduit 126.
  • valve 224 When valve 224 is in the right position, fluid is diverted from conduit 126 to conduit 228 and is returned to conduit 126 via conduit 230.
  • valve 224 When valve 224 is in the left position, fluid is diverted from conduit 126 to conduit 230 and is returned to conduit 126 via conduit 228.
  • the circuit also includes a. three position, spring centered valve 232 which communicates with conduit 126 downstream of valve 224.
  • Valve 232 can be actuated by any suitable means.
  • Conduit 234 communicates between valve 232 and the left ends of both hydraulic assemblies 42, and conduit 236 communicates between valve 232 and tne right ends of both hydraulic assemblies 42.
  • valve 232 When valve 232 is in the center position, valve 232 does not interrupt flow through conduit 126, and both conduits 234 and 236 are prevented from communicating with conduit 126. When valve 232 is in 2S
  • conduit 126 When valve 232 is in the left position, fluid is diverted from conduit 126 to conduit 236 and is returned to conduit 126 via conduit 234.
  • the circuit In order to control opening and closing of shear assembly 78, the circuit also includes a three position, spring centered valve 238 which communicates with conduit 126 downstream of valve 232. Solenoids 240 and 242 actuate valve 238. Conduit 244 communicates between valve 238 and the right ends of hydraulic assemblies 79, and conduit 246 communicates between valve 238 and the left ends of hydraulic assemblies 79.
  • valve 238 When neither solenoid 240 nor 242 is actuated, valve 238 is in the center position and does not interrupt flow through conduit 126, and conduits 244 and 246 are prevented from communicating with conduit 126.
  • valve 240 When valve 240 is actuated, valve 238 is in the right position, fluid is diverted from conduit 126 to conduit 244 and is returned to conduit 126 via conduit 246.
  • solenoid 242 When solenoid 242 is actuated, fluid is diverted from conduit 126 to conduit 246 and is returned to conduit 126 via conduit 244.
  • a relief valve 248 communicates, via conduits 148 and 150, between conduit 126, upstream of valve 128, and reservoir 116.
  • a relief valve 250 communicates with conduit 126 at a location intermediate valves 154 and 224.
  • Pump 120 includes an inlet 252 communicating with reservoir 116, and an outlet 254. Conduit 256 communicates between pump outlet 254 and reservoir 116.
  • the circuit also includes a three position, spring centered valve 258 which communicates with conduit 256.
  • Solenoids 260 and 262 actuate valve 258.
  • Conduit 264 communicates between valve 258 and one side of both hydraulic motors 60, and conduit 266 communicates between valve 258 and the other side of both hydraulic motors 60.
  • Crossover relief valves 268 communicate between conduits 264 and 266 in parallel with motors 60 to reduce shock and provide hydrostatic braking of the motors 60.
  • An over-center valve 270 prevents the motors 60 from acting as pumps and running away from pump 120. The valve 270 will modulate toward a closed position on the high pressure side of the circuit to negate the tendency to overrun caused by the load of the tree.
  • valve 258 When neither solenoid 260 nor 262 is actuated, valve 258 is in the center position, conduits 264 and 266 are prevented from communicating with conduit 256, and valve 258 does not interrupt flow through conduit 256.
  • solenoid 260 When solenoid 260 is actuated, valve 258 is in the right postition and fluid is diverted from conduit 256 to conduit 264 and is returned to conduit 256 via conduit 266. The resulting fluid flow through the motors 60 causes the rollers 56 and 58 to raise the tree.
  • solenoid 262 When solenoid 262 is actuated, valve 258 is in the left position and fluid is diverted from conduit 256 to conduit 266 and is returned to conduit 256 via conduit 264. The resulting fluid flow through the motors 60 causes the rollers 56 and 58 to lower the tree.
  • the circuit also includes a two position, spring centered valve 272 which communicates with conduit 256 downstream of valve 258.
  • Solenoid 274 actuates valve 272.
  • Conduit 276 communicates between valve 272 and one side of hydraulic motor 83
  • conduit 278 communicates between valve 272 and the other side of motor 83.
  • Crossover relief valves 280 communicate between conduits 276 and 278 in parallel with motor 83 to reduce shock and provide hydrostatic braking of the motor 83.
  • Manually operable needle valve 282 communicates between conduits 276 and 278 in parallel with motor 83 to permit manual operation of the saw 80, without power, for maintenance purposes.
  • valve 272 When solenoid 274 is not actuated, valve 272 is in the left position, conduits 276 and 278 are prevented from communicating with conduit 256, and valve 272 does not interrupt flow through conduit 256. When solenoid 274 is actuated, valve 272 is in the right position and fluid is diverted from conduit 256 to conduit 276 and is returned to conduit 256 via conduit 278.
  • the circuit In order to control rotation of the mast assembly 12 about axis 28, the circuit also includes a three position, spring centered valve 284 which communicates with conduit 256 downstream of valve 272. Solenoids 286 and 288 actuate valve 284. Conduit 290 communicates between valve 284 and one end of hydraulic assembly 40, and conduit 292 communicates between valve 284 and the other end of hydraulic assembly 40. Flow control valves 294 and 296 in conduits 290 and 292, respectively, determine the speed of tilting movement of the mast assembly 12.
  • valve 284 When neither solenoid 286 nor 288 is actuated, valve 284 is in the center position, conduits 290 and 292 are prevented from communicating with conduit 256, and valve 284 does not interrupt flow through conduit 256.
  • solenoid 286 When solenoid 286 is actuated, valve 284 is in the right position and fluid is diverted from conduit 256 to conduit 290 and is returned to conduit 256 via conduit 292.
  • solenoid 288 When solenoid 288 is actuated, valve 284 is in the left position and fluid is diverted from conduit 256 to conduit 292 and is returned to conduit 256 via conduit 290.
  • a relief valve 298 communicates with conduit 256 upstream of valve 258 and communicates with reservoir 116 via conduit 300.
  • the circuit In order to control raising and lowering of the rear of the vehicle 20, the circuit also includes a three position, spring centered valve 302 which communicates with conduit 256 downstream of the valve 284. Solenoids 304 and 306 actuate valve 302. Conduit 308 communicates between valve 302 and the left ends of hydraulic assemblies 310, which hydraulic assemblies 310 raise and lower the rear of the vehicle 10. Conduit 312 communicates between valve 302 and the right ends of hydraulic assemblies 310.
  • valve 302 When neither solenoid 304 nor 306 is actuated, valve 302 is in the center position, conduits 308 and 312 are prevented from communicating with conduit 256, and valve 302 does not interrupt flow through conduit 256.
  • solenoid 304 When solenoid 304 is actuated, valve 302 is in the right position and fluid is diverted from conduit 256 to conduit 308 and is returned to conduit 256 via conduit 312.
  • solenoid 306 is actuated, valve 302 is in the left position and fluid is diverted from conduit 256 to conduit 312 and is returned to conduit 256 via conduit 308.
  • the circuit also includes a three position, spring centered valve 314 which communicates with conduit 256 downstream of valve 302. Solenoids 316 and 318 actuate valve 314. Conduit 320 communicates between valve 314 and conduit 246 and conduit 322 communicates between valve 314 and conduit 244. Thus, valve 314 acts in combination with valve
  • valve 314 When neither solenoid 316 nor 318 is actuated, valve 314 is in the center position, conduits 320 and 322 are prevented from communicating with conduit 256, and valve 314 does not interrupt fluid flow through conduit 256.
  • solenoid 316 When solenoid 316 is actuated, valve 314 is in the right position and fluid is diverted from conduit 256 to conduit 320 and is returned to conduit 256 via conduit 322.
  • solenoid 318 When solenoid 318 is actuated, valve 314 is in the left position and fluid is diverted from conduit 256 to conduit 322 and is returned to conduit 256 via conduit 320. Because valves 238 and 314 cooperate to control hydraulic assemblies 79, solenoids 240 and 318 are always actuated simultaneously, and solenoids 242 and 316 are always actuated simultaneously.
  • a relief valve 324 communicates with conduit 256 between valves 284 and 302 and communicates •with reservoir 116 via conduit 326.
  • the hydraulic circuit can be actuated by any suitable means.
  • the valves 224 and 232 which respectively- control raising,and tilting of the mast assembly 12, are controlled by foot pedals.
  • foot pedals Such an arrangement is conventional and will not be described in greater detail.
  • the remaining valves are solenoid actuated, as described above, and the solenoids are controlled by an electrical circuit (see Figure 19) .
  • the vehicle 20 is steered by joysticks, and the electrical circuit includes operator actuated switches located on the joysticks. More particularly, the electrical circuit includes the following switches: (1) a three position, spring centered switch for raising and lowering the rear of the vehicle; (2) a two position toggle switch for turning the saw 80 on and off; (3) a three position, spring centered switch for rotating the saw in either direction; (4) a two position, spring return, push button switch for ejecting the tree; (5) a two position, spring return, push button switch-for closing the clamping members and the rollers and lubricating the saw; (6) a three position, spring centered switcn for rolling the tree upwardly and downwardly; (7) a three position, spring centered switch for opening and closing the shear assembly 78; (8) a three position, spring centered switch for tilting the mast assembly 12 to the left or to the right; (9) a two position, spring return, push button switch for opening the clamping members, the rollers and the shear assembly;
  • all of the means controlled by the hydraulic circuit i.e., the means for rotating an actuating the saw 80, the means for actuating the clamping members, the means for actuating and opening and closing the rollers, the means for lubricating the saw, the means for raising and lowering the mast assembly 12, the means for tilting the mast assembly forwardly and rearwardly, the means for opening and closing the shear assembly 78, the means for raising and lowering the rear of the vehicle 20, and the means for tilting the mast assembly 12 sideways, are operator actuated.
  • the electrical circuit also includes lockout means for disabling operator actuation of certain of these operator actuated means in response to operator actuation of certain others of these means.
  • the lockout means can include any suitable logic circuit and can operate in various ways. Operation of the lockout means is illustrated by the chart in Fig. 20.
  • the lockout means disables the means for moving the tree vertically (i.e., the rollers 56 and 58) in response to operator actuation of the means for tilting the mast assembly 12 sideways, disables rotation of the upper saw 80 (i.e., disables the motor 84) in response to operator actuation of the means for tilting the tree, disables the means for moving the tree vertically (i.e., the rollers 56 and 58) in response to operator actuation of the means for rotating upper saw 80, disables the upper saw 80 and the rollers 56 and 58 in response to operator actuation of the shear assembly 78, and disables rotation of the upper saw 80 in response to operator actuation of the rollers 56 and 58.
  • the lockout means disables a particular means by disabling the actuation of one or more of the solenoids, and disablement of a solenoid is indicated by a "-" sign in Fig. 20.
  • moving switch (3) for rotating the saw 80 disables solenoids 260 and 262 for actuating the rollers 56 and 58.
  • Moving switch (6) for actuating the rollers 56 and 58 disables solenoids 129 and 131 for rotating the saw 80.
  • Moving switch (7) for opening or closing the shear assembly 78 disables solenoids 129 and 131 for rotating the saw 80 and solenoids 260 and 262 for actuating the rollers 56 and 58.
  • Moving switch (8) for tilting the mast assembly 12 disables solenoids 260 and 262 for actuating the rollers 56 and 58.
  • Moving switch (10) or (11) for tilting the tree relative to the mast assembly 12 disables solenoids 129 and 131 for rotating the saw 80.
  • switch (9) is depressed. This actuates solenoids 156, 184, 196, 210, 240 and 318 to open the clamps, the rollers, and the shear assembly.
  • the vehicle 20 is driven to the tree, the foot pedals are operated as necessary to raise and tilt the mast assembly 12, and switch (8) is moved as necessary to tilt the mast assembly 12 left or right.
  • switch (5) When the mast assembly 12 is aligned with the tree and the shear assembly 78 located as close to the ground as possible, switch (5) is depressed. This actuates solenoids 156, 182, 194, 212 and 162 to close the clamps and the rollers and to lubricate the saw.
  • switch (7) When the tree is secured to the mast assembly 12 by the clamps and the rollers, switch (7) is moved to close the shear assembly 78. This actuates solenoids 242 and 316. Movement of switch (7) also disables solenoids 129, 131, 260 and 262 for actuating the motors 84 and 60, which actuate the saw 80 and the rollers 56 and 58.
  • the saw 80 is disabled because it is not desirable to actuate the saw 80 and the shear assembly 78 at the same time, and because the distance between the saw 80 and the shear assembly 78 is usually not equal to the desired length of a log.
  • the motors 60 are disabled in order to prevent the actuation of the shear assembly 78 from applying excessive back pressures to the motors 60.
  • switch (7) When the tree has been severed, switch (7) is moved to open the shear assembly 78. This actuates solenoids 240 and 318. This also disables solenoids 129, 131, 260 and 262 as described above. Next, if desired, the foot pedals are operated to move the mast assembly 12 to the desired height, preferably a few feet above the ground. Next, switch (6) is moved to roll the tree upwardly. This actuates solenoids 156, 182, 194, 212 and 262 to close the clamps, close the rollers, and roll the tree upwardly. This also 3 *
  • the apparatus 100 can also include limit switches which prevent actuation of the rollers unless the saw is moved completely to one side or the other.
  • switch (6) When the tree has moved upwardly the desired distance, switch (6) is released and switch (2) is depressed. This actuates solenoid 274 to turn on the saw. Next, switch (3) is moved in one direction or the other, depending on the desired direction of saw movement. This actuates either solenoid 129 or solenoid 131 for moving the saw either left or right, and disables solenoids 260 and 262 for actuating the rollers. The rollers are disabled because, as explained above, it is undesirable to have the saw cutting through the tree while the tree is moving vertically.
  • switch (6) When the saw has cut through the tree, switch (6) is moved to roll the tree downwardly. This actuates solenoids 156, 182, 194, 212 and 260 for closing the clamps, closing the rollers and rolling the tree downwardly. This also disables solenoids 129 and 131 for moving the saw.
  • switch (3) is moved in the opposite direction. This actuates the other of solenoids 129 and 131 for moving the saw in the opposite direction through the tree and also disables solenoids 260 and 262 for actuating the motors 60.
  • switch (8) is moved to tilt the mast assembly 12 either to the right or to the left. This actuates either solenoid 286 or 288 for tilting the mast assembly and disables solenoids 260 and 262 for actuating the rollers.
  • switcn (4) is depressed. This actuates solenoid 156, 184, 196, 212 and 262 for opening the clamps and rolling the tree upwardly to eject the unused portion of the tree. Because the mast assembly has been tilted to one side, the tree is ejected to that side. Finally, switch (8) is moved in order to return the mast assembly 12 to the vertical position. The vehicle 20 is now ready to proceed to tne next tree.
  • FIG. 21 An apparatus 400 which is a second alternative embodiment of the invention is illustrated in Figs. 21 and 22.
  • Apparatus 400 is similar to apparatus 100, and common elements have been given the same reference numerals. Also, apparatus 400, like apparatus 100, will be described in part by reference to Fig. 1-7.
  • the apparatus 400 comprises a mast assembly 12 including an upper section 102, a middle section 104, and a lower section 106. As shown in Figs. 21 and 22, the upper and lower sections 102 and 106 are telescopicly mounted on the middle section 104 for vertical movement relative thereto.
  • the upper section 102 has mounted thereon fixed delimber 86, clamps 44, 46, 110 and 112, rollers 56 and 58, and saw 80.
  • the apparatus 400 also comprises means for mounting the middle section 104 on the vehicle 10. While various suitable mounting means can be employed, in the alternative embodiment, the middle section 104 is mounted on the vehicle 10 in the same manner in which the mast assembly 12 of the preferred embodiment is mounted on the vehicle 10.
  • the apparatus 400 also comprises means for moving the upper section 102 upwardly and downwardly relative to the middle section 104, and means for moving the lower section 106 upwardly and downwardly relative to the middle section 104.
  • the apparatus 400 comprises means for extending and contracting the mast assembly 12. While various suitable extending and contracting means can be employed, in the illustrated construction, such means both include a pair of hydraulic assemblies 108 movably connecting the middle section 104 to both the upper and lower sections 102 and 106. Each of the assemblies 108 includes a pair of back-to-back pistons inside a single cylinder. The upper pistons are connected to the upper section 102 by piston rods 109, and the lower pistons are connected to the lower section 106 by piston rods 111. Pumping of hydraulic fluid between the pistons causes extension of the assemblies 108.
  • the means for cutting through the upright tree includes a second or lower saw 114 mounted on the lower section 106 adjacent the lower end of the mast assembly 12.
  • the saw 114 is actuated by a hydraulic motor 115.
  • the apparatus 100 also comprises means for pulling the tree upwardly away from the saw 114 while it is cutting the tree. While various suitable pulling means can be used, in the illustrated construction, the pulling means includes the means for extending the mast assembly 12. Since the ground will prevent the lower section 106 from moving downwardly relative to the tree, the effect of actuating the extending means is to move the upper section 102 upwardly relative to the lower section 106.
  • the rollers 56 and 58 can be actuated to move the tree upwardly relative to the upper section 102. Also, it should be noted that the rollers 56 and 58 alone can be used to pull the tree upwardly away from the saw 114. Of course, this would require modification of the lockout means in order to permit actuation of the rollers 56 and 58 while the lower saw 114 is cutting through the tree.

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  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Biodiversity & Conservation Biology (AREA)
  • Ecology (AREA)
  • Forests & Forestry (AREA)
  • Environmental Sciences (AREA)
  • Forklifts And Lifting Vehicles (AREA)

Abstract

L'appareil ci-décrit permettant la récolte d'arbres comprend un véhicule (10) adapté pour se déplacer transversalement sur le sol, des mécanismes (44, 46) montés sur le véhicule pour tenir l'arbre dans la position verticale, une scie (80) pour couper l'arbre en position verticale, et un mécanisme (83) pour mouvoir la scie suivant des directions opposées de va-et-vient au travers de l'arbre.
PCT/US1986/002302 1985-11-04 1986-10-28 Procede et appareil de recolte d'arbres WO1987002545A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

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US79468985A 1985-11-04 1985-11-04
US794,689 1985-11-04

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WO1987002545A1 true WO1987002545A1 (fr) 1987-05-07

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PCT/US1986/002302 WO1987002545A1 (fr) 1985-11-04 1986-10-28 Procede et appareil de recolte d'arbres

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AU (1) AU6595886A (fr)
WO (1) WO1987002545A1 (fr)

Cited By (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2750174A1 (fr) * 1996-06-20 1997-12-26 Mass Dispositif d'arret pour une machine hydraulique
AT407024B (de) * 1998-06-02 2000-11-27 Josef Auer Brennholzschneidemaschine
WO2009035434A1 (fr) * 2007-09-11 2009-03-19 Deere & Company Tête d'appareil pour abattre et ébrancher des arbres avec système de lubrification pour des scies multiples
CN106034976A (zh) * 2016-06-07 2016-10-26 滨州学院 一种乔木砍伐锯段一体机

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US3140736A (en) * 1962-03-28 1964-07-14 Robert L Propst Timber harvesting method and apparatus
US3498350A (en) * 1967-08-15 1970-03-03 Northern Eng & Supply Co Ltd T Timber harvesting
US3542099A (en) * 1968-05-13 1970-11-24 Omark Industries Inc Tree harvesters
US3671816A (en) * 1970-05-21 1972-06-20 Cutler Hammer Inc Time delay control system for directional relays with electrical interlock
US3797539A (en) * 1971-09-30 1974-03-19 Caterpillar Tractor Co Pulpwood harvester
US3981336A (en) * 1972-06-06 1976-09-21 L & L Logging Research Limited Tree harvester
US3994325A (en) * 1975-11-17 1976-11-30 Caterpillar Tractor Co. Apparatus for harvesting a tree
US4077445A (en) * 1976-04-02 1978-03-07 Caterpillar Tractor Co. Hydraulic circuit for tree harvester
SU670280A1 (ru) * 1977-11-09 1979-06-30 Центральный Научно-Исследовательский И Проектно-Конструкторский Институт Механизации И Энергетики Лесной Промышленности Устройство дл срезани деревьев
US4219059A (en) * 1978-05-31 1980-08-26 Albright Alva Z Apparatus for harvesting and bunching trees
US4239067A (en) * 1977-12-21 1980-12-16 Finncombi Sakari Mononen Ky Apparatus for bulk-lopping, bucking and prestacking in forest harvesting
US4318006A (en) * 1979-09-14 1982-03-02 Nissan Motor Company, Limited Switching system
US4523886A (en) * 1982-01-13 1985-06-18 Towmotor Corporation Container handler with programmed electro-hydraulic control circuit
US4608911A (en) * 1985-01-31 1986-09-02 J. I. Case Company Locking circuit for hydraulic systems

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* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3140736A (en) * 1962-03-28 1964-07-14 Robert L Propst Timber harvesting method and apparatus
US3498350A (en) * 1967-08-15 1970-03-03 Northern Eng & Supply Co Ltd T Timber harvesting
US3542099A (en) * 1968-05-13 1970-11-24 Omark Industries Inc Tree harvesters
US3671816A (en) * 1970-05-21 1972-06-20 Cutler Hammer Inc Time delay control system for directional relays with electrical interlock
US3797539A (en) * 1971-09-30 1974-03-19 Caterpillar Tractor Co Pulpwood harvester
US3981336A (en) * 1972-06-06 1976-09-21 L & L Logging Research Limited Tree harvester
US3994325A (en) * 1975-11-17 1976-11-30 Caterpillar Tractor Co. Apparatus for harvesting a tree
US4077445A (en) * 1976-04-02 1978-03-07 Caterpillar Tractor Co. Hydraulic circuit for tree harvester
SU670280A1 (ru) * 1977-11-09 1979-06-30 Центральный Научно-Исследовательский И Проектно-Конструкторский Институт Механизации И Энергетики Лесной Промышленности Устройство дл срезани деревьев
US4239067A (en) * 1977-12-21 1980-12-16 Finncombi Sakari Mononen Ky Apparatus for bulk-lopping, bucking and prestacking in forest harvesting
US4219059A (en) * 1978-05-31 1980-08-26 Albright Alva Z Apparatus for harvesting and bunching trees
US4318006A (en) * 1979-09-14 1982-03-02 Nissan Motor Company, Limited Switching system
US4523886A (en) * 1982-01-13 1985-06-18 Towmotor Corporation Container handler with programmed electro-hydraulic control circuit
US4608911A (en) * 1985-01-31 1986-09-02 J. I. Case Company Locking circuit for hydraulic systems

Cited By (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2750174A1 (fr) * 1996-06-20 1997-12-26 Mass Dispositif d'arret pour une machine hydraulique
AT407024B (de) * 1998-06-02 2000-11-27 Josef Auer Brennholzschneidemaschine
WO2009035434A1 (fr) * 2007-09-11 2009-03-19 Deere & Company Tête d'appareil pour abattre et ébrancher des arbres avec système de lubrification pour des scies multiples
US9119354B2 (en) 2007-09-11 2015-09-01 Deere & Company Tree harvester head with lubrication system for multiple saws
CN106034976A (zh) * 2016-06-07 2016-10-26 滨州学院 一种乔木砍伐锯段一体机

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