Assistive Axe Wielding Mechanism

In this curricular project I explored the context of a product that will ‘encourage learning in an outdoor environment’, choosing The Scout Association as a client. The problem area I identified within this was the ineffective use of a hand axe to split wood, something I have observed countless times as a scout.

My solution is a mechanical handling device which can be used an axe training 'stabiliser' to safely introduce younger scouts to wood splitting. I have designed a custom linkage to hold the axe, which can be mounted to the chopping block. The device restricts the permissible motion of the axe to that defined by the linkage, which maps an ideal swing trajectory. This will teach users the proper technique without the risk of injury since the axe is not able to divert from its path. An accompanying wood clamp holds the desired splitting objects in place, eliminating the risk of injury from unsafely 'propping up' unstable objects, common amongst inexperienced users. The clamp is a product in itself and can be used in isolation once the user has mastered the basic swing technique.

I produced a final CAD model of the design, with technical drawings and kinematic simulation. Unfortunately this project was disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic and so a physical embodiment of this concept was never completed.