Branch Breaker 3500 (BB3K)

The Branch Breaker 3500 has been completed and is waiting initial testing.

The Branch Breaker 3500 (BB3K) is a redesign of the original Branch Breaker 2000 (BB2K). This version is a more streamlined, beefier design with minimal structure interference.

The original BB2K was designed from a whiteboard sketch/idea of how to break tree branches for storm data research.

The BB2K, contained 2 600 lb. hand winches on the branch attachment side and 1 2000 lb. electric winch on the stem (breaking) side.

The new and redesigned BB3K, contains one (1) 2000 lb. hand winch on the branch attachment side and one (1) 3500 lb. electric winch on the stem (breaking) side. The BB3K also has a larger and better reenforced attachment side and all connection hardware (bolts) have been upgraded. A 4", 1000 lb. pulley has also been added along with a platform containing the battery, solenoid, and wiring for the winch.

We will be using a PiCUS TreeQinetic which can measure up to 40 kN (kilonewtons) or 8900+ lbf (pound forces) to measure the applied force for breaking branches.

The BB3K is being built out of the below items:

Main Structure (end electronics shelf not included)

• 7) 4x4x12'

  • 2) 4x4x144"

  • 2) 4x4x57"

  • 4) 4x4x48"

  • 4) 4x4x36"

  • 4) 4x4x12"

• 3) 2x4x10'

  • 2) 2x4x114"

  • 1) 2x4x84"

  • 1) 2x4x64"

  • 2) 2x4x5"

• 4) 1/2x8 bolts

• 4) 1/2x6 bolts

• 20) 7/16x6 lag bolts

• 3) 1/2x18 threaded rods

• 1) Koch Industries Heavy Fixed Flange Block, 4" 1K Pulley

• 1) HAUL-MASTER 2000 lb., 1 Ton Capacity, 25 ft. Cable Hand Winch

• 1) BADLAND ZXR 3500 lb. UTV/Powersport Winch with Automatic Load-Holding Brake

• 1) DieHard Marine Battery: 24M Group Size, 1 Year Warranty, 550 CCA, 685 CA