WO2021133247A1

WO2021133247A1 - Grabber for cutting trees

Info

Publication number: WO2021133247A1
Application number: PCT/SG2020/050054
Authority: WO
Inventors: Keok Muie SIA
Original assignee: Sia & Yeo Heavy Equipment Pte Ltd
Priority date: 2019-12-27
Filing date: 2020-02-05
Publication date: 2021-07-01
Also published as: JP2021106563A; JP7049380B2; SG10201913526WA

Abstract

A grappler-splitter is disclosed for clearing felled trees. The grappler-spiller is also known as a grappler-splitter or grabber for cutting trees. The grappler-splitter comprises a left jaw having a first confronting face; a right jaw opposed to the left jaw and having a second confronting face; and a pin for connecting and supporting the left jaw and the right jaw. The left jaw and the right jaw are configured to pivot on the pin for breaking the felled tree. The left jaw comprises a first left claw, a second left claw and a third left claw that are connected by a left supporting part; while the right jaw comprises a first right claw and a second right claw that are connected by a right supporting part. A method of making the grappler-splitter and a method of using the grappler-splitter are also disclosed herein.

Description

GRABBER FOR CUTTING TREES

[0001] The present application claims a filing date of Singapore patent application Nr. 10201913526W as its priority date, which was filed with IPOS (Intellectual Property Office of Singapore) on 27 December 2019, and has the same title of “Grabber for Cutting Trees”. All relevant content and/or subject matter of the earlier priority patent application is hereby incorporated by reference wherever appropriate.

[0002] The present application relates to a grappler-splitter for clearing felled trees, stumps, logs and thick bushes. The grabber for cutting trees is also known as a grapple or grappler-splitter. The present application also relates to a method of making the grappler-splitter, and a method of using the grappler-splitter.

[0003] In logging industry, current logging equipment is used for lifting and removing felled trees or logs to sawmills or processing plants. The logging equipment is thus designed for tightly gripping and easily skidding felled trees. Felled trees and thick bushes are sometimes cleared onsite without further processing. The current logging equipment often works in conjunction with a wood chipper, wood shredder or wood pulverizer. However, the current logging equipment is mainly designed for material handling only and thus does not have sufficient crushing force. The current logging equipment also has disadvantages of a movable hinge joint since the movable hinge joint is weaker than a fixed joint; and an unsuitable angle of attach due its curve design. Meanwhile, the wood pulverizer is originally designed to crush cement or concrete and thus has several problems for wood recycling, such as small jaw opening, limited log size and jaw joint trapped with log remains. In addition, the clearing site may be limited for accommodating both the logging equipment and the wood chipper. Other mechanical tools are also not suitable for the purpose of clearing felled trees or logs. For example, a hydraulic breaker is commonly used for breaking concrete or cement and cannot handle or sort mixed materials.

[0004] Therefore, the present application discloses a single machine called grappler- splitter for clearing felled tree, logs and thick bushes into pieces for easier wood recycling. The grappler-splitter can firstly grapple felled trees from the ground and then destroy the felled trees into small pieces or even woody debris. The grappler-splitter may also remove the woody pieces and debris to trucks, trains or other transportations. In addition, the grappler-splitter is also effective in clearing stumps while clearing the felled trees. In contrast, a stump splitter can split stumps only. In some implementations, the grapple-destroyer may also break solid soils, stones or other hard objects that block a pathway of the grappler-splitter; and the grappler-splitter is particularly useful for clearing wild fields before paving roads or other constructions. In summary, the grappler-splitter has a higher productivity for wood recycling process since multiple applications (such as grappling and splitting of felled trees, logs, stumps, thick bushes, concrete, cement, solid soils, stones or other hard objects) can be performed onsite.

[0005] As a first aspect, the present application discloses a grapple-splitter for tree trunk clearing. The grapple-splitter comprises at least one jaw that is movable for grappling a trunk. The jaw further comprises at least one sharp edge for tearing the tree trunk apart. The grapple-splitter may also comprise a base for supporting the at least one jaw; and an extremity having the at least one sharp edge. The grapple-splitter thus perform two functions, i.e. grappling of fallen tree trunk and handling processed tree trunk (such as grappling the tree trunk and splitting or tearing the tree trunk by moving (such as opening and closing) the jaw to the tree trunk).

[0006] The at least one jaw optionally comprises a base for movably supporting the at least one jaw; and an extremity having the at least one sharp edge at an opposite end/side of the base. The extremity optionally comprises at least one prong, fingers or extended parts that comprises the at least one sharp edge and extends away from the base.

[0007] The at least one jaw may have a first component for actively tearing the tree trunk and a second component working in conjunction with the first component. The first component and the second component may have distinctly different structures and functions. For example, the first component may actively hold and tear the tree trunk while the second component may simply fix the tree trunk on the ground or towards the first component.

[0008] In some implementations, the first component may comprise a primary jaw; and the second component may comprise an appendage jaw (also known as subordinate jaw). The primary jaw and the appendage jaw may have substantially different structures. The primary jaw has a primary base and a primary extremity at opposite ends of the primary jaw; while the appendage is movably attached to the primary jaw, the appendage jaw having an appendage base and an appendage extremity at opposite ends of the appendage jaw. The primary jaw and the appendage jaw optionally have substantially similar size, shape, weight and/or structure. Alternatively, the primary jaw and the appendage jaw optionally have substantially different size, shape, weight and/or structure. Accordingly, the base comprises the primary base and the appendage base, which may be detached from each other or connected together, whether fixedly or movably. The extremity comprises the primary extremity and the appendage extremity respectively. In addition, the primary jaw may have a primary driving mechanism for driving the primary jaw to move actively towards the appendage jaw.

[0009] The primary prong optionally comprises a first primary prong and a second primary prong. The first primary prong and the second primary prong have a primary gap between the first prong and the second prong for receiving a portion of the appendage jaw. The primary prong and the second prong are strong enough for tearing the tree trunk when the primary jaw works in conjunction with the appendage.

[0010] The primary jaw optionally comprises a primary rib connecting the first primary prong and the second primary prong for increasing stiffness of the primary jaw, the first primary prong, the second primary prong or a combination of these. In addition, the primary rib also defining a space for holding the tree trunk before, during or after the tree trunk is torn by the first primary prong and the second primary prong. In this way, the grapple-splitter may also bring the torn tree trunk from the one place to another place.

[0011] The primary rib optionally comprises at least one plate, at least one shaft or a combination of both. The at least one plate may have a plurality of sub-plates connected together for enhancing a capacity of holding the tree trunks; while the at least one shaft may also have two or more sub-shafts for connecting the sub-plates for maintaining an integral structure of the primary rib.

[0012] The primary rib is optionally located away from the primary extremity for limiting a range of movement of the appendage jaw with respect to the primary jaw. For example, a specific sub-plate is located in a course of movement of the appendage jaw such that the appendage is stopped by the specific sub-plate from moving further towards the primary rib. One specific sub-shaft is optionally located at the specific sub-plate for reinforcing the specific sub-plate since the specific sub-plate may have collisions with the appendage jaw.

[0013] The primary base optionally comprises a primary holder for being fastened to a boom (also known as boom mechanism) or an excavator stick. The boom mechanism may comprise a straight boom lift, a single tower articulated boom lift or a combination thereof. In addition, the boom mechanism may cooperate with a lift vehicle.

[0014] The primary holder optionally comprises at least one primary hinge or a portion of the at least one primary hinge for allowing movable (e.g. detachable, non-fixed, rotary movement) of the primary jaw with respect to the excavator stick or boom.

[0015] The at least one primary hinge optionally comprises a first primary hinge and a second primary hinge that have a gap in-between for increasing stiffness and anchoring the primary jaw. The first primary and the second primary may work independently or cooperatively.

[0016] The at least one primary prong may further comprise a third primary prong that is situated between the first primary prong and the second primary prong. The third primary prong may have a similar structure or different structures with the first primary prong and the second primary prong.

[0017] In some implementations, ends of the first primary prong, the second primary prong and the third primary prong near the primary extremity are not aligned on a straight line. In other words, a first end of the first primary prong, a second end of the second primary prong and a third end of the third primary prong are configured in a triangular structure that tears the tree trunk more efficiently.

[0018] The primary jaw optionally has at least one sharp edge at the primary extremity for piercing a tree trunk. The at least one sharp edge is configured at the ends of the primary prong. For example, the at least one sharp edge comprises a first sharp edge, a second sharp edge and a third sharp edge at the first primary prong, the second primary prong and the third primary prong, respectively. In this design, the grapple-splitter may tear the tree trunk effectively when the tree trunk is oriented towards either the first shape edge, the second sharp edge or the third sharp edge.

[0019] The primary jaw optionally comprises a primary wedge having a narrow end at the primary extremity. The at least one sharp edge of the primary jaw is attached to the primary wedge. For example, the primary wedge comprises a first primary wedge, a second primary wedge and a third primary wedge for attaching the first sharp edge, the second sharp edge and the third sharp edge, respectively.

[0020] The sharp edge, the primary wedge or both are detachable, removable or replaceable from the primary jaw. For example, the first primary wedge, the second primary edge and the third primary wedge are detachable from the primary jaw along with the first sharp edge, the second sharp edge and the third sharp edge, respectively. Then the first sharp edge, the second sharp edge and the third sharp edge are detachable from the first primary edge, the second primary edge and the third primary edge, respectively. Alternatively, the first sharp edge, the second sharp edge and the third sharp edge are removed from the first primary wedge, the second primary wedge and the third primary wedge, respectively; while they are still attached to the primary jaw.

[0021 ] The appendage jaw optionally comprises at least one appendage prong extending between the appendage base and the appendage extremity. For example, the at least one appendage prong comprises a first appendage prong and a second appendage prong. Similarly, the appendage may also comprise an appendage rib connecting the at least one appendage prong. In particular, the at least one appendage prong is configured to move in a plane that is substantially different from that of the primary prong. Therefore, the grappler-splitter may tear the tree trunk at the plane of the primary prong and the plane of the appendage prong for enhancing the efficiency of tearing.

[0022] In some implantations, the first component may comprise a left jaw and the second component may comprise a right jaw. The left jaw and the right jaw may have an identical or substantially same structure. The left jaw has a first confronting face; while the right jaw is configured to be opposed to the left jaw and has a second confronting face. The left jaw and the right jaw are configured to pivot on a pin for breaking the felled tree. The pin is also used for connecting and supporting the left jaw and the right jaw. The first confronting face and the second confronting face have a concaved configuration and form a cavity between the first and second confronting faces for handling a large amount of woody materials from the felled tree or large logs. The larger the cavity is, the more efficient the grappler-splitter becomes in handling the woody materials. Therefore, the grappler-splitter grapples the felled tree into large blocks, destroys the large blocks into small pieces and even woody debris, and finally remove or relocate the woody blocks, pieces and debris.

[0023] In the subject application, the words indicating orientation or positional relationships, such as ‘horizontal’, ‘vertical’, ‘up’, ‘down’, ‘top’, ‘bottom’, ‘left’, ’right’, ‘front’, ‘rear’ are based on the orientation or positional relationships of the components, devices and/or systems shown in the drawings, or the orientation or positional relationships of the components, devices, and/or systems commonly adopted, or the orientation or positional relationships of the components, devices and/or systems commonly understood to those skilled in the art. The words are used herein only for convenience of describing the components, devices and/or systems in the present application. The words are not used for the purpose of indicating or implying that the components, devices, and/or systems must have specific orientations or positions, or being constructed or operated in specific orientations or positions. Therefore, the words should not be construed as limitations to the components, devices and/or system of the present application.

[0024] The left jaw may comprise a first left claw and a second left claw connected to the pin; a third left claw between the first left claw and the second left claw; and a left supporting part connecting the first left claw, the second left claw and the third left claw. In other words, the left supporting part is laterally divided into a first left portion connecting the first left claw and the third left claw; and a second left portion connecting the second left claw and the third left claw. In particular, the first left claw and the second left claw pivot on the pin for opening or closing the left jaw. Meanwhile, the left supporting part and the third claw are also rotate around the pin along with the first claw and the second claw. The first and second left claws and the third claw are all used for grappling or grabbing the woody materials, including felled trees, logs, stumps and thick bushes. [0025] The first left claw, the second left claw and the third left claw are optionally arranged in a parallel configuration. The left jaw has a left interval between the first left claw and the second left claw. Therefore, the first left claw and the second left claw pivot on the pin at a same angular momentum as that of the third left claw rotating around the pin. The first left claw and the third left claw may have a substantially same length; and the second left claw may have a shorter length than the first left claw and the third left claw. The first claw, second claw and the third claw are all extended out of the left supporting part. Therefore, the first left claw and the third left claw are separated by a first left gap; and the second left claw and the third claw are separated by a second left gap. In some implementations, the left jaw has a symmetrical configuration such that the first left gap and the second has a substantially same dimension. If the left jaw is kept intact, the left interval is measured as a sum of the first left gap, the second left gap and a thickness of the third claw,

[0026] The first left claw optionally comprises a first left arm connected to the pin; a first left adapter connected to the first left arm opposite to the pin; and a first left tip connected to the first left adapter opposite to the first left arm. The first left adapter is used for securing the first left tip. The first left arm has a first left through hole at its first top end, and the first adapter is connected to a first bottom end opposite to the first top end of the first left arm. The first left arm is used for transmitting an external force to the first left tip. The first left tip may be configured to be configured to be detachable from the first left adapter. Since the first left pin is used for breaking the felled tree, the first left tip thus can be replaced when it is blunt, worn or damaged. The first left adapter may be also configured to be detachable from the first left arm. In some implementations, the first left adapter has a curved or balled surface in contact with the first left tip such that the first left tip may move in a short range relative to the first left adapter. The first left adapter thus can be replaced when the curved or balled surface is worn or damaged.

[0027] The first left tip optionally comprises a harder material than the felled tree, such as steel. In addition, the first left tip optionally comprises a coating (such as cubic boron nitride, carbon nitride, boron carbon nitride, metal borides and nanostructured super- hard materials) for strengthening the first left tip. The first left tip comprises a smooth surface for cleaving the felled tree along its specific wood texture. The wood texture may have straight grain, diagonal grain, spiral grain, interlocked grain, wavy grain and irregular grain. It is much easier to cleave the felled tree along its wood texture rather than break across the wood texture by cutting off wood fibers. In addition, the smooth surface would greatly reduce abrasion between the first left tip and the felled tree such that the first left tip moves more easily into the felled tree during the cleaving process.

[0028] The first left tip may have an inclined plane with a blunt end connected to the first left adapter and a sharp end opposite to the blunt end. The first left tip has a tapered configuration in the inclined plane. The external force transmitted from the first left arm and the first left adapter is converted from the blunt end to the sharp end for breaking the felled tree. In some implementation, the tapered configuration has a triangular shaped with an angle ranging from minus 30 degrees (-30°) to 30 degrees (30°) at the sharp end. The sharp end works as a blade for cutting the thick bushes. In some implementations, the tapered configuration has a trapezoidal shape such that the sharp end crushes the felled tree, solid soils and stones apart.

[0029] The first left tip has a diminished configuration in a lateral plane vertical to the inclined plane. The diminished configuration may have various designs, either regular shapes or irregular shapes. The diminished configuration optionally has one or more pointed edges at the sharp end for piercing into the felled tree. In other words, the first left tip works as an awl or a plow for firstly piercing the felled tree into several large blocks; and then breaking the large block into multiple small pieces by the pointed edges. Alternatively, the pointed edges may also grip and move the large blocks of the felled tree to a nearby wood chipper or wood shredder. The large blocks are chopped into smaller pieces or even woody debris. In particular, the first tip having the pointed edges is suitable for destroying hardwoods from gymnosperm trees. The diminished configuration optionally has a substantially linear edge at the sharp end for cutting off the felled tree. In other words, the first tip having the linear edge works as a wedge, blade or saw to puncture, chop, slice and scrape multiple small pieces from the felled tree directly. The linear edge is suitable for destroying softwoods from gymnosperm trees (e.g. conifers, pines and spruces), as well as the thickness bushes.

[0030] The second left claw has a similar structure with the first left claw. The second left claw optionally comprises a second left arm connected to the pin; a second left adapter connected to the second left arm opposite to the pin; and a second left tip connected to the second left adapter opposite to the second left arm. The second left adapter is used for securing the second left tip. The second left arm, the second left adapter and the second left tip have an identical or a similar structure with the first left arm, the first left adapter and the first left tip respectively. For example, the first left arm and the second left arm have a substantially same length.

[0031] Similarly, the second left arm has a second left through hole at a second top end; while the second left adapter is connected to a second bottom end opposite to the second top end. In some implementations, the first left through hole and the second left through hole are aligned for inserting the pin through. The first left claw and the second left claw thus pivot on the pin for opening or closing the left jaw. Meanwhile, the left supporting part and the third left claw are also rotate around the pin along with the first left claw and the left second claw.

[0032] The left jaw further optionally comprises a left spacer (also known as spacer A) connected to the first left claw and the second left claw. The left spacer may comprise a first left spacer connected to an inner side of the first left arm at the first top end of the first left arm, and the first left spacer has a first left opening aligned with the first left through hole; and a second left spacer connected to an inner side of the second left arm at the second top end of the second arm, and the second left spacer has a second left opening aligned with the second left through hole. Therefore, the pin is also inserted through the first left opening and the second left opening.

[0033] The third left claw has a similar structure with the first left claw and the second left claw. The third left claw optionally comprises a third left arm connected to the left supporting part; a third left adapter connected to the third left arm; and a third left tip connected to the third left adapter opposite to the third left arm. The third left adapter is used for securing the third left tip. The third left adapter and the third left tip have an identical or similar structure with the first/second left adapter and the first/second left tip respectively. However, the third left arm does not have a through hole at a third top end. Instead, the third top end is partially embedded in the left supporting part. The first left claw, the second left claw and the third left claw may have various designs in their relative configurations. In some implementations, the third left arm may have a same length as the first and second left arms such that the first left tip, the second left tip and the third left tip are configured in a line. The felled tree is thus cut along the line into small pieces. In some implementations, the third left arm may be shorter than the first and second left arms such that the first left tip, the second left tip and the third left tip form a triangular configuration. The felled tree is thus pierced and crushed into large blocks.

[0034] In particular, the first left tip of the first left claw provides a first splitting point; the second left tip of the second left claw provides a second splitting point; and the third left tip of the third left claw provides a third splitting point. The first left tip, the second left tip and the third left tip are arranged in a triangular configuration for splitting and breaking woody materials particularly hard felled trees or logs more efficiently.

[0035] The left supporting part optionally comprises a structure of multiple plates (i.e. multiple plates structure), comprising a first plate (plate A) below the pin; a second plate (plate B) connected to the first plate; a left cylinder (cylinder A) connected to the second plate; a third plate (plate C) embedded in the left cylinder; and a fourth plate (plate D) connected to the left cylinder. The second plate, the third plate and the fourth plate are designed for covering up gaps within the left supporting part in order to hold more woody materials. In this way, the grappler-splitter becomes more efficient in collecting the woody materials. The left cylinder is used for enhancing stiffness and strength of the left supporting part, particular for reinforcing the first and second left claws to prevent any deformation thereof. For example, the left interval between the first left claw and the second left claw may be widened if too much woody materials are grappled in the cavity between the left jaw and the right jaw. Such widening deformation may even lead to disassembly of the left jaw. The left cylinder thus prevents such widening deformation by strengthening a connection between the first left claw and the second left claw. The left cylinder optionally comprises a first left cylinder connected between the second plate and the third plate; and a second left cylinder connected between the third plate and the fourth plate. In other words, the third plate is interconnected between the first left cylinder and the second left cylinder. The first plate, the second plate, the left cylinder, the third plate and the fourth plate end at the inner sides of the first left claw and the second left claw. The fourth plate may have a linear bottom edge dismal to the first plate. The first supporting part providing a driving force the first left claw, the second left claw and the third left claw to pin on or rotate around the pin as a whole. In particular, the first and second left cylinders are used to increase the stiffness of the grapple. The first and second left cylinders also help to hold the left claw together as a whole. Each of the first, second, third and fourth plates helps to make up the cavity as a curve cavity. In contrast to a single plate structure having one plate (such as flat plate), the multiple plates structure is easier to fabricate.

[0036] The left supporting part may be made in two manners. In some implementations, the first plate, the second plate, the left cylinder, the third plate and the fourth plate are firstly made individually and then assembled together for forming the left supporting part as a unitary part. The unitary left supporting part should be strong enough for resisting shocks and collisions with the felled tree. Therefore, the assembled left supporting part is adopted for breaking softwoods or thick bushes. In some implementations, the left supporting part is molded as a whole as a single part. Although stronger than the assembled left supporting part, the molded left supporting part is made at a higher cost.

[0037] The left supporting part may further comprise a top flange (flange A) and a bottom flange (flange B) connected to the first left arm and the second left arm. The top flange is on/over the bottom flange. Both the top and the bottom flanges are welded in such a way that when closed, the top and the bottom flanges do not hinder closing of the claw. Optionally, the top and the bottom flanges are welded as far along the left arm towards the left tip and also as far along the left support part inwards. The top flange optionally comprises a first top flange for connecting the bottom edge of the fourth plate and the inner side of the first left arm near the first left tip; and a second top flange for connecting the bottom edge of the fourth plate and the inner side of the second left arm near the second left tip. Thus the first top flange and the second top flange are symmetrical to the third claw. The top flange is used for reinforcing the first and second left claws to prevent any deformation thereof. In particular, the top flange prevents the widening deformation between the first left claw and the second left claw.

[0038] The left jaw may further comprise a left bracket (bracket A) for connecting to an excavator. The excavator is also known as a handler of the grappler-splitter or grapple, especially because the excavator is configured to install and/or use the grappler-splitter for tree trunk splitting or removing. The first plate and the first and second left claws are held together by the left bracket as a unitary component. The left bracket optionally comprises a first left bracket connected to the first portion of the left supporting part; and a second left bracket connected to the second portion of the left supporting part. In some implementations, the first left bracket and the second bracket are located near to the third claw; and away from the fist left claw and the second left claw respectively. The first left bracket and the second left bracket have an identical or similar structure. The first left bracket and the second left bracket have a first left aperture and a second left aperture respectively. The first left aperture and the second left aperture are aligned for inserting a left axle through. The grappler-splitter opens or closes the left jaw by pivoting the left jaw on the left axle. The left axle may be a rod, bar, shaft, spike, pole, stick or any other similar object. The left bracket thus connects the left jaw to the left axle and further to the arm of the excavator.

[0039] In some implementations, the left axle is fastened by a first fastener (such as rivet or screw) to the left bracket. The first left bracket optionally has a first washer on an outside surface facing the inner side of the first left arm; and the second left bracket has a second left washer on an outside surface facing the inner side of the second left arm. The first washer and the second washer are aligned to the first left aperture and the second left aperture respectively. Therefore, the left axle also passes through the first washer and the second washer. The washer is used for distributing a working load applied on the first fastener. Alternatively, the left axle may be joined to the left bracket by other joining methods such as crimping, welding, soldering, brazing, taping, gluing, cement, or other adhesives.

[0040] The right jaw of the grappler-splitter comprises a first right claw and a second right claw connected to the pin; and a right supporting part connecting the first right claw and the second right claw. The first right claw and the second right claw have a similar structure with the first left claw or the second left claw. The first and second right claws are also used for grappling or grabbing the woody materials, including felled trees, logs, stumps and thick bushes. In some implementations, the first right claw and the second right claw are arranged in a parallel configuration. The right jaw has a right interval between the first right claw and the second right claw. Therefore, the first right claw and the second right claw pivot on the pin at a same angular momentum. [0041] The bottom flange optionally comprises a first bottom flange beneath/under the first top flange for connecting the fourth plate and the firs left arm near the left tip; and a second bottom flange beneath/under the first top flange for connecting the fourth plate and the second left arm near the second left tip. The first bottom flange and the second bottom flange are also symmetrical to the third claw. The bottom flange is used for reinforcing the first right claw and the second right claw to prevent any deformation thereof. In particular, the bottom flange prevents the widening deformation between the first right claw and the second right claw. (Dear inventors, please clarity why the bottom flange can reinforce the first and second right claws while connected to the first and second left claws.

[0042] The first right claw optionally comprises a first right arm connected to the pin; a first right adapter connected to the first right arm opposite to the pin; and a first right tip connected to the first right adapter opposite to the first right arm. The first right tip has a first right edge that is used for breaking the felled tree. The first right adapter is used for securing the first right tip. Similarly, the first right arm may have a first right through hole at a top end of the first right arm; and the first right adapter is connected to a bottom end opposite to the top end of the first right arm. The first right tip may also have a tapered configuration in an inclined plane with an angle ranging from minus 30 degrees (-30°) to 30 degrees (30°) at the first right edge.

[0043] The second right claw optionally comprises a second right arm connected to the pin; a second right adapter connected to the second right arm opposite to the pin; and a second right tip connected to the second right adapter opposite to the second right arm. The second right tip has a second right edge that is used for breaking the felled tree. The second right adapter is used for securing the second right tip. Similarly, the second right arm may have a second right through hole at a top end of the second right arm; and the second right adapter is connected to a bottom end opposite to the top end of the second right arm. The second right tip may also have a tapered configuration in an inclined plane with an angle ranging from minus 30 degrees (-30°) to 30 degrees (30°) at the second right edge.

[0044] The right supporting part optionally comprises a fifth plate (plate E) below the pin; a sixth plate (plate F) connected to the fifth plate; a right cylinder (cylinder B) connected to the sixth plate; a seventh plate (plate G) embedded in the right cylinder; and an end plate connected to the right cylinder. The fifth plate, the sixth plate, the seventh plate and the end plate are designed for covering up gaps within the right supporting part in order to hold more woody materials. In this way, the grappler-splitter becomes more efficient in collecting the woody materials. The right cylinder is used for enhancing stiffness and strength of the right supporting part, particular for reinforcing the first and second right claws to prevent any deformation thereof. For example, the right interval between the first right claw and the second right claw may be widened if too much woody materials are grappled in the cavity between the left jaw and the right jaw. Such widening deformation may even lead to disassembly of the right jaw. The right cylinder thus prevents such widening deformation by strengthening a connection of the first right claw and the second right claw. The right cylinder comprises a first right cylinder connected to the sixth plate and the seventh plate; and a second right cylinder connected to the seventh plate and the end plate. In other words, the seventh plate is interconnected between the first right cylinder and the second right cylinder.

[0045] Similarly, the first right claw and the second right claw is also separated by a right gap. The left jaw and the right jaw are closed in such an arrangement that the third left arm approaches into the right gap; while the first right arm and the second right arm approach into the first left gap and the second left gap respectively. The left jaw and the right jaw are fully closed until the third left arm reaches the end plate; while the first right arm and the second right arm reach the fourth plate. In addition, the fourth plate may comprise a left anti-collision material (such as rubber) at its bottom edge for preventing any prompt collision against the first right arm and the second right arm. Alternatively, the fourth plate may comprise a left buffering device (such as spring) for absorbing momentums of the first right claw and the second right claw approaching the fourth plate. Similarly, the end plate may also comprise a right anti-collision or a right buffering device at its bottom edge for preventing any prompt collision against the third left claw or absorbing a momentum of the third left claw approaching the end plate.

[0046] Similarly, the right jaw may further comprise a right bracket (bracket B) for connecting to an excavator. The right bracket optionally comprises a first right bracket connected to the first right claw; and a second right bracket connected to the second right claw. The first right bracket and the second right bracket may have an identical or similar structure. The first right bracket and the second right bracket have a first right aperture and a second right aperture respectively. The first right aperture and the second right aperture are also aligned for inserting a right axle through. The grappler-splitter opens or closes the right jaw by pivoting the right jaw on the right axle. The right axle may be a rod, bar, shaft, spike, pole, stick or any other similar object. The right bracket thus connects the right jaw to the right axle and further to the arm of the excavator.

[0047] The right jaw may further comprise a right spacer (i.e. spacer C) connected to the first right claw and the second right claw. The right spacer optionally comprises a first right spacer connected to an outer side of the first right arm at a top end of the first right arm, and the first right spacer has a first right opening aligned with the first right through hole; and a second right spacer connected to an outer side of the second right arm at a top end of the second right arm, and the second right spacer has a second right opening aligned with the second right through hole. Therefore, the pin is also inserted through the first right opening and the second right opening. The first right spacer and the second right spacer have an identical or similar structure. In particular, the left spacer works in conjunction with the right spacer for avoiding direct contacts and subsequent wearing between the first left arm and the first right arm and between the second left arm and the second right arm, respectively. In other words, the first left spacer and the first right spacer fill up a first tolerance gap between the first left claw and the first right claw. Similarly, the second left spacer and the second right spacer fill up a second tolerance gap between the second left claw and the second right claw.

[0048] The right bracket optionally comprises a bracket spacer (also known as spacer B) at an inner surface of the right bracket. The bracket spacer is used for filling up a third tolerance gap between the right axle and the right bracket. The bracket spacer may comprise a first bracket spacer at an inner surface of the first right bracket and aligned with the first right aperture; and a second bracket spacer at an inner surface of the second right bracket and aligned with the second right aperture. The right bracket optionally comprises a bracket cylinder (i.e. cylinder B) at an outside surface of the first right bracket. The bracket cylinder is also used for enhancing stiffness and strength of the first and second right claws to prevent any deformation thereof. For example, the right interval between the first right claw and the second right claw may be widened if too much woody materials are grappled in the cavity between the left jaw and the right jaw. The bracket cylinder thus also prevents such widening deformation by reinforcing the first right claw and the second right claw.

[0049] The grappler-splitter may further comprise a driving mechanism for controlling the left jaw, the right jaw or both the left jaw and the right jaw. The driving mechanism optionally comprises a main driving part connected to the pin for controlling a position of the left jaw and the right jaw to approach the felled tree or the thick bushes. The main driving part may raise, lower and turn the left jaw and the right jaw via the pin. In some implementations, the main driving part comprises a universal joint that is free to move the pin in three dimensions. Alternatively, the main driving part comprises a main hydraulic system for raising or lowering the pin and a rotational joint for turning the pin in 360 degrees.

[0050] The driving mechanism may further comprise a first driving part connected to the left axle for opening or closing the left jaw. The left axle is inserted through the first washer, the first left aperture, the second left aperture and the second washer in sequence. For example, the first driving part comprises a first hydraulic system for raising or lowering the left axle. The upward and downward motion of the left axle is converted to an opening motion or a closing motion of the left jaw, respectively. Therefore, the left jaw grips and destroys the felled tree actively by closing the left jaw towards the right jaw while the right jaw passively holds the felled tree between the left jaw and the right jaw. In addition, the driving mechanism may further comprise a second driving part connected to the right axle for opening or closing the right jaw. The second axle is inserted through the first bracket cylinder, the first right aperture, the first bracket spacer, the second bracket spacer, the second right aperture and the second bracket cylinder in sequence. For example, the second driving part comprises a second hydraulic system for raising or lowering the right axle. The upward and downward motion of the right axle is converted to an opening motion or a closing motion of the right jaw, respectively. Therefore, both the left jaw and the right jaw grip and destroy the felled tree actively by closing the left jaw towards the right jaw and closing the right jaw towards the left jaw respectively.

[0051 ] The grappler-splitter may further comprise a control panel for controlling the diving mechanism, including the main driving part, the first driving part and/or the second driving part. For example, the control panel has a transmitter for transmitting a controlling signal; and the major driving part has a receiver for receiving the controlling signal. The main driving part then perform an action as indicated by the controlling signal. The controlling signal may be transmitted via a transmission cable or wireless. In the latter case, the grappler-splitter may be controlled remotely away from the felled tree or thick brushes.

[0052] In some implantations, the grappler-splitter may be mounted on an excavator. The grappler-splitter optionally comprises a grappler joint hinge as a rotating hinge that rotates on the axis along a dipper, an arm or a stick of the excavator. Therefore, the grappler-splitter may be transported by the excavator moving on the ground to the clearing site. Meanwhile, the grappler joint hinge is free to move in three dimensions and would not hamper any movement of the grappler-splitter.

[0053] The grapple-splitter of the subject application is not limited to the description of its respective implementations. For example, the primary jaw as the first component of the grapple-splitter may have some common features that are described for the left jaw but not described for the primary jaw. Similarly, the appendage jaw as the second component of the grapple-splitter may have some common features that are described for the right jaw but not described for the appendage jaw.

[0054] As a second aspect, the present application discloses a method of making the grappler-splitter for breaking a felled tree. The method of making the grappler-splitter comprises a step of providing a left jaw having a first confronting face; a step of providing a right jaw having a second confronting face; and a step of providing a pin for connecting and supporting the left jaw and the right jaw. The left jaw and the right jaw are configured to pivot on the pin for gripping and breaking the felled tree.

[0055] The left jaw is optionally provided by a step of providing a first left claw, a second left claw and a third left claw; a step of assembling the first left claw, the second left claw and the third left claw by a left supporting part into a unitary component; and a step of connecting a left bracket to the left supporting part. Alternatively, the left jaw is optionally provided by a step of providing a first main body comprising a first left claw, a second left claw, a third left claw and a left supporting part; and a step of connecting a left bracket to the left supporting part. [0056] The first left claw is optionally provided by a step of providing a first left arm having a first left through hole; a step of detachably connecting a first left adapter to the first left arm; and a step of detachably connecting a first left tip to the first left adapter. The second left claw may be provided in a same or similar method described above. The third left claw is optionally provided by a step of connecting a third left arm to the left supporting part; a step of detachably connecting a third left adapter to the third left arm; and a step of detachably connecting a third tip to the third left adapter.

[0057] The first right jaw is optionally provided by a step of providing a first right claw and a second right claw; a step of assembling the first right claw and the second right claw into a unitary component; and a step of connecting a right bracket to the first right claw and the second right claw. Similarly, the second right jaw is provided by a step of providing a second main body comprising a first right claw, a second right claw and a right supporting part; and a step of connecting a right bracket to the first right claw and the second right claw.

[0058] The first right claw is provided by a step of providing a first right arm having a first left through hole; a step of detachably connecting a first right adapter to the first right arm; and a step of detachably connecting a first right tip to the first right adapter. The second right claw may be also provided in a same or similar method described above.

[0059] The method of making the grappler-splitter may further comprise a step of providing a driving mechanism for driving the left jaw, the right jaw or both the left jaw and the right jaw; and a step of connecting a driving mechanism to the left jaw, the right jaw or both the left jaw and the right jaw. The driving mechanism may be provided by a step of connecting a first driving part (e.g. a first hydraulic system) to the left jaw for moving the left jaw; and a step of connecting a second driving part (e.g. a second hydraulic system) to the right jaw for moving the right jaw.

[0060] As a third aspect, the present application discloses a method of using the grappler-splitter to break a felled tree. The method of using the grappler-splitter comprise a step of moving a left jaw and a right jaw downwardly; a step of opening the left jaw and the right jaw apart; a step of approaching the grappler-splitter to the felled tree; a step of closing the left jaw and the right jaw towards the felled tree; and a step of gripping and destroying the felled tree by the left jaw and the right jaw. The opening step and the approaching step may be interchangeable in sequence.

[0061] The opening step optionally comprises a step of pivoting the left jaw on the pin, and thus a first confronting surface of the left jaw is actively moved away from a second confronting surface of the right jaw while the right jaw passively remain motionless. Alternatively, the opening step optionally comprises a step of pivoting both the left jaw and the right jaw on the pin, and thus a first confronting surface of the left jaw and a second confronting surface of the right jaw are actively moved away from each other simultaneously.

[0062] The closing step optionally comprising a step of pivoting the left jaw on a pin, and a first confronting surface of the left jaw is actively moved towards a second confronting surface of the right jaw while the right jaw passively remain motionless.

[0063] The gripping and destroying step optionally comprises a step of fixing the felled tree with the right jaw; and a step of breaking the felled tree with the left jaw. Alternatively, the gripping and destroying step optionally comprises a step of fixing the felled tree with the both the left jaw and the right jaw; and a step of breaking the felled tree with both the left jaw and the right jaw.

[0064] The breaking step optionally comprises a step of piercing the felled tree with the left jaw; a step of splitting the felled tree into several large blocks with the left jaw; and a step of breaking the large blocks into multiple small pieces with the left jaw.

[0065] The breaking step optionally comprises a step of cutting the felled tree into multiple small slices. Alternatively, the breaking step optionally comprises a step of piercing the felled tree with both the left jaw and the right jaw; a step of splitting the felled tree into several large blocks with both the left jaw and the right jaw; and a step of breaking the large blocks into multiple small pieces with both the left jaw and the right jaw.

[0066] The closing step optionally comprises a step of pivoting the left jaw and the right jaw on a pin. A first confronting surface of the left jaw and a second confronting surface of the right jaw are driven by a first hydraulic system and a second hydraulic system respectively towards each other simultaneously.

[0067] The accompanying figures (Figs.) illustrate embodiments and serve to explain principles of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood, however, that these figures are presented for purposes of illustration only, and not for defining limits of relevant applications.

Fig. 1 illustrates a first isometric view of a grappler-splitter;

Fig. 2 illustrates a second isometric view of the grappler-splitter;

Fig. 3 illustrates a top view of the grappler-splitter;

Fig. 4 illustrates a side view of the grappler-splitter;

Fig. 5 illustrates a first cross-sectional view of the grappler-splitter;

Fig. 6 illustrates a second cross-sectional view of the grappler-splitter;

Fig. 7 illustrates a first isometric view of the left jaw from an outside viewpoint;

Fig. 8 illustrates a second isometric view of the left jaw from an inside viewpoint;

Fig. 9 illustrates a top view of the left jaw;

Fig. 10 illustrates a rear view of the left jaw;

Fig. 11 illustrates a perspective side view of the left jaw;

Fig. 12 illustrates a first isometric view of the right jaw from an outside viewpoint;

Fig. 13 illustrates a second isometric view of the right jaw from an inside viewpoint;

Fig. 14 illustrates a top view of the right jaw;

Fig. 15 illustrates a rear view of the right jaw;

Fig. 16 illustrates a side perspective view of the right jaw;

Fig. 17 illustrates an exploded view of the grappler-splitter;

Fig. 18 illustrates an isometric view of the grappler-splitter mounted on an excavator; Fig. 19 illustrates a side view of the grappler-splitter mounted on the excavator;

Fig. 20 illustrates an isometric view of the grappler-splitter connected to an excavator arm;

Fig. 21 illustrates a side view of the grappler-splitter connected to the excavator arm;

Fig. 22 illustrates an isometric view of another grappler-splitter.

[0068] Fig. 1 illustrates a first isometric view of the grappler-splitter 100. The grappler- splitter 100 comprises a jaw 101 . The jaw 101 is movable for grappling a trunk. The jaw 101 further comprises a sharp edge for tearing a tree trunk apart. The jaw 101 comprises a left jaw 200, a right jaw 300 and a pin 102 connecting the left jaw 200 and the right jaw 300. The left jaw 200 further comprises a first left claw 210, a second left claw 220, a third left claw 230 and a left supporting part 240 connecting the first left claw, the second left claw and the third claw together for making the left jaw 200 as a unitary component. The left supporting part is thus divided into a first left portion 242 extending between the first left claw and the third left claw; and a second left portion 244 extending between the second left claw and the third left claw. It is shown that the left jaw 200 has a left bracket 250 connected to the left supporting part. The left bracket further comprises a first left bracket 252 connected to the first left portion and a second left bracket 254 connected to the second left portion. In particular, both the first left bracket and the second left bracket are located near the third left claw and remote from the first left claw and the second left claw respectively.

[0069] The right jaw 300 further comprises a first right claw 310 (not shown), a second right claw 320 and a right supporting part 340 (not shown) for connecting the first right claw 310 and the second right claw 320 for making the right jaw 300 as a unitary component. As shown in Fig. 1 , the grappler-splitter 100 is fully closed by interlacing or interlocking the left jaw 200 and the right jaw 300. In detail, the first right claw 310 is inserted into a first left gap 201 between the first left claw and the third left claw; and meanwhile the second right claw 320 in inserted into a second left gap 202 between the second left claw and the third left claw. In this way, a cavity 104 is formed between the left jaw 200 and the right jaw 300 for holding woody materials.

[0070] The first right claw 310 comprises a first right arm 312 connected to the pin 102, a first right adapter 314 connected to the first right arm 312, and a first right tip 316 connected to the first right adapter 314. Similarly, the second right claw 320 comprises a second right arm 322 connected to the pin 102, a second right adapter 324 connected to the second right arm 322, and a second right tip 326 connected to the second right adapter 324. Therefore, the right jaw 300 has two splitting points at the first right tip 316 and the second right, respectively.

[0071] Fig. 2 illustrates a second isometric view of the grappler-splitter 100. It is shown that the right jaw 300 also has a right bracket 350. The right bracket 350 further comprises a first right bracket 352 and a second right bracket 354 connected to the first right arm 312 and the second right arm 322, respectively. As shown in Fig. 2, the grappler-splitter 100 is also fully closed by interlacing or interlocking the left jaw 200 and the right jaw 300. In detail, the third left claw is inserted into a right gap 302 between the first right claw 310 and the second right claw 320; while the first left claw and the second left claw are located outside the first right claw 310 and the second right claw 320 respectively.

[0072] Fig. 3 illustrates a top view of the grappler-splitter 100. The first left claw comprises a first left arm 212 connected to the pin 102, a first left adapter 214 (not shown) connected to the first left arm, and a first left tip 216 connected to the first left adapter. Similarly, the second left claw comprises a second left arm 222 connected to the pin 102, a second left adapter 224 (not shown) connected to the first left arm, and a first left tip 216 connected to the first left adapter. In contrast, the third left claw comprises a third left arm 232 connected to the left supporting part, a third left adapter (not shown) 234 connected to the third left arm, and a third left tip 236 connected to the third left adapter. Therefore, the left jaw 200 has three splitting points at the first left tip, the second left tip and the third left tip, respectively.

[0073] Fig. 4 illustrates a side view of the grappler-splitter 100. It is clearly shown that the first left arm and the first right arm 312 are interlaced or interlocked together; and the cavity 104 is formed between the first left arm and the first right arm 312 when the left jaw 200 and the right jaw 300 are closed. The first left adapter and the first left tip extend out from the first right arm 312; and the first right adapter 314 and the first right tip 316 also extend out from the firs left arm for holding woody materials tightly inside the cavity 104. Two cross-sectional lines A and B are draw in Fig. 4 that are illustrated in Fig. 5 and Fig. 6, respectively.

[0074] Fig. 5 illustrates a first cross-sectional view of the grappler-splitter 100, as indicated along the cross-sectional line A in Fig. 4. The left supporting part comprises a first plate 260, a second plate 262, a third plate 264, a fourth plate 266 and a left cylinder 270, all of which are interconnected between the first left arm and the second left arm and divided by the third arm into the first left portion and the second left portion. The third left arm ends at the first plate. The left cylinder further comprises a first left cylinder 272 connected between the second plate and the third plate; and a second left cylinder 274 connected between the third plate and the fourth plate. It is also clearly shown that the first right claw 310 and the right are inserted into the first left gap 201 and the first left gap 202, respectively. In addition, the left supporting part also comprises a bottom flange 286 for reinforcing the first right claw 310 and the second right claw 320. The bottom flange further comprises a first bottom flange 288 connected to an inner side of the first left arm; and a second bottom flange 290 connected to an inner side of the second left arm.

[0075] Fig. 6 illustrates a second cross-sectional view of the grappler-splitter 100, as indicated along the cross-sectional line B in Fig. 4. The right supporting part 340 comprises a fifth plate 360, a sixth plate 362, a seventh plate 364, an end plate 366 and a right cylinder 370, all of which are interconnected between the first right arm 312 and the second right arm 322. The right cylinder 370 further comprises a first right cylinder 372 connected between the sixth plate 362 and the seventh plate 364; and a second right cylinder 374 connected between the seventh plate 364 and the end plate 366. it is also clearly shown that the third left claw is inserted into the right gap 302.

[0076] Fig. 7 illustrates a first isometric view of the left jaw 200 from an outside viewpoint. The first left claw has a first left through hole 218 at an end of the first left arm remote from the first left adapter and the first left tip. Similarly, the second left claw has a second left through hole 228 at an end of the second left arm remote from the second left adapter and the second left tip. The pin 102 is inserted through the first left through hole and the second left through hole. In addition, the left jaw 200 comprises a left spacer 204 connected to the first left claw and the second left claw. The left spacer 204 further comprises a first left spacer 205 and a second left spacer 207 connected to inner surfaces of the first left arm and the second left arm, respectively. The first left spacer 205 and the second left spacer 207 have a first left opening 206 and a second left opening 208, respectively. The first left opening 206 and the second left opening 208 are aligned with the first left through hole and the second left through hole respectively for the pin 102 to pass through.

[0077] Fig. 7 also shows that the first left bracket and the second left bracket have a first left aperture 253 and a second left aperture 255, respectively. In addition, the left bracket also has a washer 292 on an outside surface of the left bracket. In detail, the first left bracket has a first washer 294 on its outside surface facing the first left arm; and the second left bracket has a second left washer 296 on its outside surface facing the second left arm. The first washer and the second washer are aligned to the first left aperture and the second left aperture respectively for a left axle 106 (not shown) to pass through.

[0078] Fig. 8 illustrates a second isometric view of the left jaw 200 from an inside viewpoint. The left supporting part also has a top flange 280 connected to the first left claw and the second left claw. The top flange further comprises a first top flange 282 connected to an inner surface of the first left arm near the first left adapter; and a second top flange 284 connected to an inner surface of the second left arm near the second left adapter. The first top flange and the second top flange are used for reinforcing the first left claw and the second left claw.

[0079] Fig. 9 illustrates a top view of the left jaw 200. The left jaw 200 is symmetrical to an imaginary central line 209 through the third left claw. It is clearly shown that the first left tip and the second left tip are aligned outwardly while the third left tip is aligned inwardly from the left jaw 200. Therefore, the first left tip, the second left tip and the third left tip are arranged in a triangular configuration for splitting woody materials more efficiently.

[0080] Fig. 10 illustrates a rear view of the left jaw 200. It is clearly shown that the top flange and the bottom flange are partially overlapped. In detail, the first top flange is partially overlapped with the first bottom flange, both of which are connected to the inner side of the first left arm; and the second top flange is partially overlapped with the second bottom flange, both of which are connected to the inner side of the second left arm.

[0081] Fig. 11 illustrates a perspective side view of the left jaw 200. The first plate, the second plate, the first left cylinder, the third plate, the second left cylinder and the fourth plate are connected in sequence. The first left through hole and the first left adapter are located at two ends of the first left arm, respectively.

[0082] Fig. 12 illustrates a first isometric view of the right jaw 300 from an outside viewpoint. The first right claw 310 has a first right through hole 318 at an end of the first right arm 312 remote from the first right adapter 314 and the first right tip 316. Similarly, the second right claw 320 has a second right through hole 328 at an end of the second right arm 322 remote from the second right adapter 324 and the second right tip 326. The pin 102 is inserted through the first right through ole and the second right through hole 328. In addition, the right jaw 300 comprises a right spacer 304 connected to the first right claw 310 and the second right claw 320. The right spacer 304 further comprises a first right spacer 305 and a second right spacer 307 connected to outer surfaces of the first right arm 312 and the second right arm 322, respectively. The first right spacer 305 and the second right spacer 307 have a first right opening 306 and a second right opening 308, respectively. The first right opening 306 and the second right opening 308 are aligned with the first right through hole 318 and the second right through hole 328 respectively for the pin 102 to pass through.

[0083] Fig. 12 also shows that the first right bracket 352 and the second right bracket 354 have a first right aperture 353 and a second right aperture 355, respectively. In addition, the right bracket 350 also has a bracket spacer 380 on an inner surface of the left bracket. In detail, the first left bracket has a first bracket spacer 382 on its inner; and the second left bracket has a second bracket spacer 384 on its inner surface. In other words, the first bracket spacer 382 and the second bracket spacer 384 face each other. The first bracket spacer 382 and the second bracket spacer 384 are aligned to the first right aperture 353 and the second right aperture 355 respectively for a right axle 108 (not shown) to pass through. Moreover, the right bracket 350 also has a bracket cylinder 390 on an outside surface of the first right bracket 352. The bracket cylinder 390 is aligned to the first right aperture 353 and the second right aperture 355 respectively for the right axle 108 (not shown) to pass through.

[0084] Fig. 13 illustrates a second isometric view of the right jaw 300 from an inside viewpoint. The end plate 366 has a first projecting portion 367 and a second projecting portion 368 connected to a main portion 369. The first projecting portion 367 is connected to an inner side of the first right arm 312 and near the first right adapter 314; and the second projecting portion 368 is connected to an inner side of the first right arm 312 and near the second right adapter 324. The first projecting portion 367 and the second projecting portion 368 are used for reinforcing the first right claw 310 and the second right claw 320. In addition, the right gap 302 terminates at the main portion 369 of the end plate 366. [0085] Fig. 14 illustrates a top view of the right jaw 300. The left jaw 200 is symmetrical to an imaginary central line 309. It is clearly shown that the first right tip 316 and the second right tip 326 are outwardly.

[0086] Fig. 15 illustrates a rear view of the right jaw 300. It is clearly shown that the first projecting portion 367 is connected to an inner side of the first right arm 312 and near the first right adapter 314; and the second projecting portion 368 is connected to an inner side of the first right arm 312 and near the second right adapter 324.

[0087] Fig. 16 illustrates a side perspective view of the right jaw 300. The fifth plate 360, the sixth plate 362, the first right cylinder 372, the seventh plate 364, the second right cylinder 374 and the end plate 366 are connected in sequence. The first right through hole 318 and the first right adapter 314 are located at two ends of the first right arm 312, respectively.

[0088] Fig. 17 illustrates an exploded view of the grappler-splitter 100. (Dear inventors, please explain the components aligned in a line)

[0089] Fig. 18 illustrates an isometric view of the grappler-splitter 100 mounted on an excavator 400. The excavator 400 has an excavator arm 402 connected to the pin 102 for moving the grappler-splitter 100 in three dimensions. The excavator 400 further has a first hydraulic cylinder 404 and a second hydraulic cylinder 406 connected to the left axle 106 and the right axle 108 for closing or opening the left jaw 200 and the right jaw 300, respectively.

[0090] Fig. 19 illustrates a side view of the grappler-splitter 100 mounted on the excavator 400. The first jaw 200 performs a closing action and an opening action pivoting on the first axle 106 when the first hydraulic cylinder 404 moves backwardly and forwardly, respectively. Similarly, the second jaw 300 performs a closing action and an opening action pivoting on the second axle 108 when the second hydraulic cylinder 406 moves backwardly and forwardly, respectively. [0091] Fig. 20 illustrates an isometric view of the grappler-splitter 100 connected to the excavator arm 402. A joint hinge 408 is connected between the excavator arm 400 and the first hydraulic cylinder 404 for linking the movements of the excavator arm 400 and the first hydraulic cylinder 404. In this way, the closing action and opening action of the first jaw 200 are more easily and precisely controlled.

[0092] Fig. 21 illustrates a side view of the grappler-splitter 100 connected to the excavator arm 402. The joint hinge 408 is connected to the first hydraulic cylinder 404 and the second hydraulic cylinder 406 at a first joint point 410 and a second joint point 412, respectively. Therefore, the joint hinge 408 pivots on both the first joint point 410 and the second joint point 412 simultaneously.

[0093] Fig. 22 illustrates an isometric view of another grappler-splitter 500. The grappler- splitter 500 comprises a jaw 501 . The jaw 501 is movable for grappling a trunk. The jaw 501 further comprises a sharp edge 503 for tearing the tree trunk apart. The jaw 501 comprises a base 502 for movably supporting the jaw 501 ; and an extremity 504 having the sharp edge 503 at an opposite end/side of the base 502. The extremity 504 comprises a prong 506 that comprises the sharp edge 503 and extends away from the base 502.

[0094] The jaw 501 comprises a primary jaw 508 having a primary base 510 and a primary extremity 512 at opposite ends of the primary jaw 508; and an appendage jaw 514 movably attached to the primary jaw 512. The appendage jaw 514 has an appendage base 516 and an appendage extremity 518 at opposite ends of the appendage jaw 514. The prong 506 comprises a primary prong 520 and an appendage prong 522.

[0095] The primary prong 520 comprises a first primary prong 524 and a second primary prong 526. The primary prong 520 has a primary gap 528 between the first primary prong 524 and the second primary prong 526 for receiving at least a portion of the appendage jaw 514. The primary jaw 508 comprises a primary rib 530 connecting the first primary prong 524 and the second primary prong 526 for increasing stiffness of the primary jaw 508, the first primary prong 524, the second primary prong 526 or a combination of these. The primary rib 530 comprises a plate 532, a shaft 534 or a combination of both. The primary rib 530 is located away from the primary extremity 512 for limiting a range of movement of the appendage jaw 514 with respect to the primary jaw 508.

[0096] The primary base 510 comprises a primary holder 536 for being fastened to a boom 538. The primary holder 536 comprises a primary hinge 540 for allowing movable (e.g. detachable, non-fixed, rotary movement) of the primary jaw 508 with respect to the boom 538. The primary hinge 540 comprises a first primary hinge 542 and a second primary hinge 544 that have a gap 546 in-between for increasing stiffness and anchoring the primary jaw 508.

[0097] The primary prong 520 further comprises a third primary prong 548 that is situated between the first primary prong 524 and the second primary prong 526. The first primary prong 524, the second primary prong 526 and the third primary prong 548 have a first primary end 550, a second primary end 552 and a third primary end 554, respectively. The primary ends 550, 552, 554 near the primary extremity 512 are not aligned on a straight line.

[0098] The primary jaw 508 comprises a primary wedge 556 having a narrow end 558 at the primary extremity 512. The sharp edge 503, the primary wedge 556 or both are detachable from the primary jaw 508. The appendage jaw 514 comprises the appendage prong 522 extending between the appendage base 516 and the appendage extremity 518. The appendage prong 522 is configured to move in an appendage plane 562 that is substantially different from a primary plane 560 of the primary prong 520.

[0099] In the application, unless specified otherwise, the terms "comprising", "comprise", and grammatical variants thereof, intended to represent "open" or "inclusive" language such that they include recited elements but also permit inclusion of additional, non- explicitly recited elements.

[0100] As used herein, the term "about", in the context of concentrations of components of the formulations, typically means +/- 5% of the stated value, more typically +/- 4% of the stated value, more typically +/- 3% of the stated value, more typically, +/- 2% of the stated value, even more typically +/- 1% of the stated value, and even more typically +/- 0.5% of the stated value. [0101] Throughout this disclosure, certain embodiments may be disclosed in a range format. The description in range format is merely for convenience and brevity and should not be construed as an inflexible limitation on the scope of the disclosed ranges. Accordingly, the description of a range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all the possible sub-ranges as well as individual numerical values within that range. For example, description of a range such as from 1 to 6 should be considered to have specifically disclosed sub-ranges such as from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 1 to 5, from 2 to 4, from 2 to 6, from 3 to 6 etc., as well as individual numbers within that range, for example, 1 , 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. This applies regardless of the breadth of the range.

[0102] It will be apparent that various other modifications and adaptations of the application will be apparent to the person skilled in the art after reading the foregoing disclosure without departing from the spirit and scope of the application and it is intended that all such modifications and adaptations come within the scope of the appended claims.

Reference Numerals

100 grappler-splitter;

101 jaw;

102 pin;

104 cavity;

106 left axle;

108 right axle;

200 left jaw;

201 first left gap;

202 second left gap;

204 left spacer;

205 first left spacer;

206 first left opening;

207 second left spacer;

208 second left opening;

209 imaginary central line;

210 first left claw;

212 first left arm;

214 first left adapter;

216 first left tip;

218 first left through hole;

220 second left claw;

222 second left arm;

224 second left adapter;

226 second left tip;

228 second left through hole;

230 third left claw;

232 third left arm;

234 third left adapter;

236 third left tip;

240 left supporting part;

242 first left portion;

244 second left portion; left bracket; first left bracket; first left aperture;

254 second left bracket;

255 second left aperture;

260 first plate;

262 second plate;

264 third plate;

266 fourth plate;

270 left cylinder;

272 first left cylinder;

274 second left cylinder;

280 top flange;

282 first top flange;

284 second top flange;

286 bottom flange;

288 first bottom flange;

290 second bottom flange;

292 washer;

294 first washer;

296 second washer;

300 right jaw;

302 right gap;

304 right spacer;

305 first right spacer;

306 first right opening;

307 second right spacer;

308 second right opening;

309 imaginary central line;

310 first right claw;

312 first right arm;

314 first right adapter;

316 first right tip;

318 first right through hole; second right claw;

322 second right arm;

324 second right adapter;

326 second right tip;

328 second right through hole;

340 right supporting part;

350 right bracket;

352 first right bracket;

353 first right aperture;

354 second right bracket;

355 second right aperture;

360 fifth plate;

362 sixth plate;

364 seventh plate;

366 end plate;

367 first projecting portion;

368 second projecting portion;

369 main portion;

370 right cylinder;

372 first right cylinder;

374 second right cylinder;

380 bracket spacer;

382 first bracket spacer;

384 second bracket spacer;

390 bracket cylinder;

400 excavator;

402 excavator arm;

404 first hydraulic cylinder;

406 second hydraulic cylinder;

408 joint hinge;

410 first joint point;

412 second joint point;

500 grappler-splitter;

501 jaw; base; sharp edge; extremity;

506 prong;

508 primary jaw;

510 primary base;

512 primary extremity;

514 appendage jaw;

516 appendage base;

518 appendage extremity;

520 primary prong;

522 appendage prong;

524 first primary prong;

526 second primary prong;

528 primary gap;

530 primary rib;

532 plate;

534 shaft;

536 primary holder;

538 boom;

540 primary hinge;

542 first primary hinge;

544 second primary hinge;

546 gap;

548 third primary prong;

550 first primary end;

552 second primary end;

554 third primary end;

556 primary wedge;

558 narrow end;

560 primary plane;

562 appendage plane;

Claims

1 . A grapple-splitter for tree trunk clearing, the grapple-splitter comprising at least one jaw that is movable for grappling a trunk; wherein the at least one jaw further comprises at least one sharp edge for tearing the tree trunk apart.

2. The grapple-splitter of claim 1 , wherein the at least one jaw comprises a base for supporting the at least one jaw; and an extremity having the at least one sharp edge at an opposite end/side of the base.

3. The grapple-splitter of claim 2, wherein the extremity comprises at least one prong that comprises the at least one sharp edge and extends away from the base.

4. The grapple-splitter of claim 3, wherein the at least one jaw comprises a primary jaw having a primary base and a primary extremity at opposite ends of the primary jaw; an appendage jaw movably attached to the primary jaw, the appendage jaw having an appendage base and an appendage extremity at opposite ends of the appendage jaw.

5. The grapple-splitter of claim 4, wherein the at least one primary prong comprises a first primary prong and a second primary prong, wherein the at least one primary prong has a primary gap between the first primary prong and the second primary prong for receiving at least a portion of the appendage jaw.

6. The grappler-splitter of claim 3, wherein the at least one jaw comprises

> a left jaw having a first confronting face; and a right jaw opposed to the left jaw and having a second confronting face; wherein the left jaw and the right jaw are configured to pivot on a pin for breaking the felled tree.

7. The grappler-splitter of claim 6, wherein the left jaw comprises

> a first left claw and a second left claw connected to the pin; a third left claw between the first left claw and the second left claw; and

> a left supporting part connecting the first left claw, the second left claw and the third left claw.

8. The grappler-splitter of claim 7, wherein the first left claw comprises

> a first left arm connected to the pin;

> a first left adapter connected to the first left arm opposite to the pin; and

> a first left tip connected to the first left adapter opposite to the first left arm; wherein the first left tip has a first left edge that is sharp for breaking the felled tree.

9. The grappler-splitter of claim 7, wherein the second left claw comprises

> a second left arm connected to the pin;

> a second left adapter connected to the second left arm opposite to the pin; and

> a second left tip connected to the second left adapter opposite to the second left arm; wherein the second left tip has a second left edge that is sharp for breaking the felled tree.

10. The grappler-splitter of claim 7, wherein the third left claw comprises

> a third left arm connected to the left supporting part; a third left adapter connected to the third left arm; and a third left tip connected to the third left adapter opposite to the third left arm; wherein the third left tip has a third left edge that is shape for breaking the felled tree.

11 . The grappler-splitter of claim 7, wherein

> the first left claw has a first left tip for providing a first splitting point;

> the second left claw has a second left tip for providing a second splitting point; and

> the third left claw has a third left tip for providing a third splitting point; wherein the first left tip, the second left tip and the third left tip are arranged in a triangular configuration.

12. The grappler-splitter of claim 7, wherein the left supporting part comprises

> a first plate below the pin;

> a second plate connected to the first plate;

> a left cylinder connected to the second plate;

> a third plate embedded in the left cylinder; and

> a fourth plate connected to the left cylinder.

13. The grappler-splitter of claim 12, wherein the left cylinder comprises

> a first left cylinder connected between the second plate and the third plate; and

> a second left cylinder connected between the third plate and the fourth plate.

14. The grappler-splitter of claim 6, wherein the right jaw comprises

> a first right claw and a second right claw connected to the pin; and

> a right supporting part connecting the first right claw and the second right claw.

15. The grappler-splitter of claim 14, wherein the first right claw comprises

> a first right arm connected to the pin;

> a first right adapter connected to the first right arm opposite to the pin; and

> a first right tip connected to the first right adapter opposite to the first right arm; wherein the first right tip has a first right edge that is sharp for breaking the felled tree.

16. The grappler-splitter of claim 14, wherein the second right claw comprises

> a second right arm connected to the pin;

> a second right adapter connected to the second right arm opposite to the pin; and

> a second right tip connected to the second right adapter opposite to the second right arm; wherein the second right tip has a second right edge that is sharp for breaking the felled tree.

17. The grappler-splitter of claim 14, wherein the right supporting part comprises

> a fifth plate below the pin;

> a sixth plate connected to the fifth plate;

> a right cylinder connected to the sixth plate;

> a seventh plate embedded in the right cylinder; and

> an end plate connected to the right cylinder.

18. The grappler-splitter of claim 17, wherein the right cylinder comprises

> a first right cylinder connected to the sixth plate and the seventh plate; and

> a second right cylinder connected to the seventh plate and the end plate.

19. A method of making a grappler-splitter for breaking a felled tree, comprising:

> providing a left jaw having a first confronting face;

> providing a right jaw having a second confronting face; and

> providing a pin for connecting and supporting the left jaw and the right jaw; wherein the left jaw and the right jaw are configured to pivot on the pin for gripping and breaking the felled tree.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the left jaw is provided by

> providing a first main body comprising a first left claw, a second left claw, a third left claw and a left supporting part; and

> connecting a left bracket to the left supporting part.

21 . The method of claim 20, wherein the first left claw is provided by

> providing a first left arm having a first left through hole;

> connecting a first left adapter to the first left arm; and

> connecting a first left tip to the first left adapter.

22. The method of claim 20, wherein the third left claw is provided by

> connecting a third left arm to the left supporting part;

> connecting a third left adapter to the third left arm; and

> connecting a third tip to the third left adapter.

23. The method of claim 19, wherein the first right jaw is provided by

> providing a first right claw and a second right claw; > assembling the first right claw and the second right claw into a unitary component; and

> connecting a right bracket to the first right claw and the second right claw.

24. The method of claim 23, wherein the first right claw is provided by

> providing a first right arm having a first left through hole;

> connecting a first right adapter to the first right arm; and

> connecting a first right tip to the first right adapter.

25. A method of using a grappler-splitter to break a felled tree, comprising the steps of:

> moving a left jaw and a right jaw downwardly;

> opening the left jaw and the right jaw apart;

> approaching the grappler-splitter to the felled tree; > closing the left jaw and the right jaw towards the felled tree; and

> gripping and destroying the felled tree by the left jaw and the right jaw.