Driving interface for veneer chuck assembly

Abstract

This invention relates to a chuck assembly for use with veneer lathes. In veneer lathes, a log is rotated against a blade for stripping a thin sheet of wood called veneer. Rotation of the log against the blade is compelled by paired chuck assemblies at opposite ends of the log. Each chuck assembly includes a spindle adapter and a chuck, both for driving rotation about the axis of rotation of the log. An improved driving interface between the spindle adapter and chuck is disclosed, extending along a plane normal to the axis of rotation. The chuck has a driving interface along a plane normal to the axis of rotation. This chuck driving interface defines keys, which keys preferably extend radially from the axis of rotation and protrude outwardly interrupting the plane of the driving interface. The spindle adapter has a complementary driving interface along a similar plane normal to the axis of rotation. The spindle adapter driving interface defines mating keyways, which keyways preferably extend radially from the axis of rotation and protrude inwardly interrupting the plane of the driving interface. When the driving interfaces are juxtaposed with the keys and keyways engaged, the rotation of the lathe imparted to the spindle adapter passes through the chuck assembly. Because of the driving interface, the chuck assembly may be constructed to a smaller diameter enabling veneer to be stripped from logs turned to a small diameter.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.