Globe-union Inc.

Other

Robert William Mayer

Paul E Bantz

Ralph W Bennett

Bruce A Pusey

Kashyap H Shah

Harold F Qualls

James B Nowakowski

Steven F Bellenot

A method for creating a full surface model of a log using optical scanners mounted on an existing infeed assembly. The method recognizes that a log is only stable for a portion of its travel along the infeed assembly, meaning that only portions of the log may be accurately scanned for both cross-sectional and positional data. The balance of the log can only be scanned for cross-sectional data. The method uses the regions of the log for which both cross-sectional and positional data are known to create a theoretical centerline for the entire log. The cross-sections for the regions without positional data are then placed along the theoretical centerline and all the cross sections are blended together to create a full surface model. The full surface model is then used to determine the optimum configuration of dimensioned lumber which may be sawn from the log.

Infeed log scanning for lumber optimization

A pouring system uses low pressure air to force molten lead into mold cavities. The pour spout is heated by the lead bath, and, preferably, a small gap is maintained between the pouring spout and a weir on the mold cavity to prevent stringers from being attached to the cast piece. At the completion of the lead pouring operation, excess metal is drained back through the spout and into the lead bath. Lead volume is controlled by adjusting pressure and timer settings, and a fill hole allows the pump to refill.

Lead pouring system

A ladle gate for use with casting apparatus including a mold of the kind used in casting battery plate grids and including a ladle of the type used in holding a supply of molten lead alloy and being pivotable into a pouring position wherein a quantity of the molten lead alloy can be poured into the mold. The ladle gate is positioned adjacent the ladle spouts and functions to permit flow of molten lead alloy through the ladle spouts when the ladle is in a pour position, and to interrupt the flow of molten lead alloy through the spouts at the completion of the pour, when the ladle pivots to its rest position, to thereby prevent the formation of solidified drippage at the spouts.

Ladle gate

Growing community of inventors

Milwaukee, WI, United States of America

Robert William Mayer