#354: Sawshield

A quick search for ‘chainsaw safety features’ quickly confirms my suspicion that these are seriously dangerous devices…especially in the hands of anyone who isn’t a professional lumberjack.

Most people who pick up a chainsaw aren’t looking to decapitate a sequoia. They are more likely to be chopping off the odd branch or two whilst hoping to keep their own limbs attached.

Today’s invention is a new form of chainsaw shield. Only a small part of the chain is initially exposed. As it cuts into a branch, the outer section of the shield is deflected away from the user by the wood itself, exposing just enough of the chain at any time.

The outer section is attached by a narrow, sliding, spring-loaded spine to the inner section (which allows the saw to fully penetrate the wood and also protects the user if it kicks upwards).