SRS4702 Header Lumber Scanning & Optimizing Technology


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 Abstract. The adoption of scanning and optimizing technology has been readily accepted by softwood sawmills. Automated edging and trimming systems have become the norm, not the exception. These technologies, however, have not been as readily accepted by hardwood sawmills. This study will determine the barriers that currently exist for these technologies. To facilitate adoption of Hardwood Lumber Scanning and Optimizing Technologies (HLSOT) such as edger-optimizers, trimmer-optimizers, and automated grading systems by hardwood sawmills, several objectives must be met: 
  1. Identify differences between those companies that adopt HLSOT and those companies that do not. From a marketing perspective, identification of these differences is needed to better define the market.
  2. Determine acceptable cost and package features demanded by the hardwood sawmills.
  3. Identify the expectations, goals, and objectives of the hardwood lumber industry with respect to HLSOT.
  4. Assess the potential market for the next generation of HLSOT.

The resulting information will allow HLSOT manufacturers to design and build better systems and allow hardwood sawmill managers to make better decisions.

Robert Smith (VA Tech), Scot Bowe (VA Tech), and Philip A. Araman

 


Accomplishments

  • None yet

Current and Future Work

  • As stated above
  • This project started in January, 1999

Technology Transfer Efforts

  • Presentations and publications as research is completed

 

 

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