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A three-dimensional optimal sawing system for small sawmills in central Appalachia

Informally Refereed

Abstract

A three-dimensional (3D) log sawing optimization system was developed to perform 3D log generation, opening face determination, sawing simulation, and lumber grading. Superficial characteristics of logs such as length, large-end and small-end diameters, and external defects were collected from local sawmills. Internal log defect positions and shapes were predicted using a USDA Forest Service model. A 3D virtual reconstruction of a log and its internal defects was generated using 3D modeling techniques. Heuristic and dynamic programming algorithms were developed for opening face determination and sawing optimization while grading procedures were programmed based on the National Hardwood Lumber Association rules. The system was validated through comparisons of lumber results generated by the system and by sawmills. Our preliminary results indicated that a significant gain in lumber value can be achieved using this optimization system. This study will help small sawmill operators improve their processing performance and understand the impacts of defects on lumber grade, resulting in improved industry competitiveness.

Parent Publication

Citation

Lin, Wenshu; Wang, Jingxin; Thomas, R. Edward. 2011. A three-dimensional optimal sawing system for small sawmills in central Appalachia. In: Fei, Songlin; Lhotka, John M.; Stringer, Jeffrey W.; Gottschalk, Kurt W.; Miller, Gary W., eds. Proceedings, 17th central hardwood forest conference; 2010 April 5-7; Lexington, KY; Gen. Tech. Rep. NRS-P-78. Newtown Square, PA: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northern Research Station: 67-76.
https://www.fs.usda.gov/research/treesearch/38041