Replicating sawmill sawing with TOPSAW using CT images of a full-length hardwood log

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1-1-1998

Abstract

In this paper we present the results of an effort to replicate and compare sawmill sawing of a log using the TOPSAW software program, which was developed by the authors to generate, and grade board images from x-ray CT images of a log. Such a replication study has never been attempted before due to lack of x-ray CT images of an entire log and/or integrated software that could perform the entire sawing simulation analysis. The replication of sawmill cutting is an important step in the development of software that can be used to analyze various sawing patterns to determine the exact gains realized by using internal defect information for optimization. In this study, a 12-foot-long hardwood log was scanned using an industrial scanner. The log was then cut at a local sawmill by letting the sawyer make the sawing decisions. The log angles and sawblade cutting positions were recorded. These cutting positions were then replicated in software to produce exactly the same boards. The total value of the boards estimated by the software matched to within 97 percent of the value produced at the sawmill. This study lays the foundation for TOPSAW to be used as a practical tool to analyze different sawing patterns and determine the value of lumber thus produced. ©Forest Products Society 1998.

Publication Source (Journal or Book title)

Forest Products Journal

First Page

72

Last Page

75

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