SRS4702 Header Multi-Sensor Lumber Inspection


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 Abstract. We have been involved in the development of a lumber inspection system that employs three dirrerent scanning technologies: color sensing, x-ray scanning, and laser ranging. Together, these three scanning technologies have the potential to provide a nearly complete description of lumber for accurate and reliable defect identification. Research has focused on evaluating the scanning system's performance in terms of both accurate lumber grading and parts yield maximization. We are testing the system's ability to scan different species and wood conditions while locating and identifying defects.

D. Earl Kline (VA Tech), Richard W. Conners (VA Tech), and Philip A. Araman

 


Accomplishments

  • Research has lead to the Group Seven / Nova Technologies parts color scanner and separater called CESYS. CESYS won the prestigious Challengers Award at the 1996 International Woodworking Fair.
  • Research has lead to the Group Seven / Nova Technologies AOK Detection System that scans ripped strips prior to cutting parts to length. The system has the capability to improve the yield in parts.
  • Special purpose computer boards to process scan data have been developed.
  • The multiple sensor scanning system has been created.

Current and Future Work

  • The focus is to test and develop a hardwood lumber grading system with the multiple sensor lumber inspection system.
  • An intensive evaluation study has been started.
  • Scan softwood lumber for grading and processing.

Technology Transfer Efforts

  • Over 20 publications and 50 presentations have resulted from this research.
  • We conduct system demonstrations at the Brooks Forest Products Center

Process Automation Laboratory - Virginia Tech

 

 

Southern Research Station Forest Service USDA Virginia Tech Department of Wood Science and Forest Products Non-Timber Forest Products
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Last Modified: 06/13/07
Send Comments to Matt Winn: mwinn@fs.fed.us