Pole framing apparatus

Abstract

An automatic machine for performing framing operations on a power pole. The machine is controlled by a programmable logic control and interchangeable programs are provided to control the operation of the machine according to a pole frame specification. Poles to be framed are received on a primary conveyor. The poles are sequentially scanned for length and position and are transferred in sequence to a longitudinal feed station where the poles are oriented on a first set of supports. An end of the pole is clamped to a movable carriage to maintain the pole orientation. The pole is fed through a movable rotatable tool ring either by movement of the pole clamp carriage or movement of the tool ring. The tool ring supports tooling to perform the framing operation on the pole. The programmable logic control coordinates the movement of the pole clamp carriage, the movement of the tool ring and the rotation of the tool ring to position the tools in the proper relation to the pole. Self centering supports are provided to center the longitudinal axis of the pole on the rotational axis of the tool ring. The programmable logic control operates the tools of the tool ring to perform all the operations required in framing the pole to its specification. An additional tool ring is provided adjacent the first tool ring for supporting drilling tools for ground line drilling the base of the pole to enhance subsequent treatment of the pole with a wood preservative.