Source: PURDUE UNIVERSITY submitted to NRP
WOOD PRODUCTS MANUFACTURING PROCESS ENGINEERING
Sponsoring Institution
National Institute of Food and Agriculture
Project Status
COMPLETE
Funding Source
HATCH
Reporting Frequency
Annual
Accession No.
0176036
Grant No.
(N/A)
Cumulative Award Amt.
(N/A)
Proposal No.
(N/A)
Multistate No.
(N/A)
Project Start Date
Oct 1, 2012
Project End Date
Sep 30, 2017
Grant Year
(N/A)
Program Code
[(N/A)]- (N/A)
Recipient Organization
PURDUE UNIVERSITY
(N/A)
WEST LAFAYETTE,IN 47907
Performing Department
Forestry & Natural Resources
Non Technical Summary
For a long time, sawmill operators wished to have the ability to see inside the log. They believe that if they can see what is inside a log, better sawing decision can be made to increase the value of lumber produced. Studies have shown that internal defect scanning could increase the value of the lumber produced by 40%. The commercial implementation of such an optimization system until now, however, has been hampered by a lack of suitable X-ray CT log scanner. During the previous period we assisted in development of such a CT scanner. During the new period we will focus on software development and integration as well as overall CT scanning system adoption.
Animal Health Component
(N/A)
Research Effort Categories
Basic
(N/A)
Applied
(N/A)
Developmental
(N/A)
Classification

Knowledge Area (KA)Subject of Investigation (SOI)Field of Science (FOS)Percent
40206502020100%
Knowledge Area
402 - Engineering Systems and Equipment;

Subject Of Investigation
0650 - Wood and wood products;

Field Of Science
2020 - Engineering;
Goals / Objectives
The general objective of this project is to expand the application of industrial engineering to wood products manufacturing, especially use of operations research techniques, with the intent to develop tools for analysis, benchmarking, optimization and design of processing operations. Specific objectives for this period are to: 1) develop tools and applications that enable use of CT log scanning technology in the hardwood industry and 2) demonstrate and introduce CT log scanning technology to the U.S. hardwood industry.
Project Methods
1. Development of tools and applications that enable use of CT log scanning technology in the hardwood industry. This work is in the form of computer software for processing, interactive visualization and analysis of computer tomography data of logs for both hardwood veneer and sawmill operations. A set of algorithms for data processing, defect detection and classification, analysis and visualization will be developed and graphical user interface provided to facilitate manipulation of the data. 2. Demonstrating and introducing CT log scanning technology to the U.S. hardwood industry. a) The scanning system (hardware and software) will be introduced at industry trade shows. Working with funding entities for this project, we will identify one hardwood veneer slicing and one hardwood sawmill operation in the US where the CT log scanning system will be installed, integrated, tested and then demonstrated to others in the industry. b) CT log scanning system is a game changing (disruptive technology). Nothing similar exists today and we are on the cusp of making it work on an industrial scale. Data collected during the demonstration period and later during normal operation will open new avenue of research related to decision making process of slicing hardwood veneer and milling of hardwood lumber. Areas 1 and 2b are where most of the future activities, graduate student work and industry technology transfer will take place.

Progress 10/01/12 to 09/30/17

Outputs
Target Audience:Hadwood Lumber sawmills Hardwood lumber manufacturers Wood Products manufacturers Hardwood veneer manufacturers Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Two workshops were conducted in Indiana (specifics below). Additionally, the information about the CT.Log™ scanner was dessiminated at at least 8 most important trade shows, including National Hardwood Lumber Association and Indiana Hardwood Lumbermen's Association Expos. Workshops: New Scanning Technology for the Hardwood Industry. 2015. Marketing Hardwood Veneer Logs and Trees. Workshop for Log Producers and Sawmill Operators. Southeast Purdue Agricultural Center. North Vernon, IN. Participants: 40. (given twice) Scanning and Sawing Hardwood Logs Demonstration. 2015. Workshop for Log Producers and Sawmill Operators. Southeast Purdue Agricultural Center. North Vernon, IN. Participants: 25. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Booth displays and presentations at: 2009-2017. National Hardwood Lumber Association. Approximately 1,000 attendees annually. 2009-2017. Indiana Hardwood Lumbermen's Annual Convention. Approximately 1,000 attendees annually. Presentation Gazo, R., Wells, L., Krs, V. and B. Benes. 2017. Automated Hardwood Lumber Grading applications. Indiana Hardwood Lumbermen's Annual Convention, Indianapolis, IN. (February, ~100 participants) What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Nothing Reported

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? Objective 1: Development of CT scanner. Fully accomplished. Cooperation between Purdue University Hardwood Scanning Center and MiCROTEC, GmbH (www.microtec.eu) resulted in the development and market introduction of CT.Log™, world's first successful, industrial-grade, stationary tool for non-destructive evaluation of interior features of logs. The CT.Log™, features a bore opening of 120 cm, a field of view of 90 cm and speeds up to 600 feet/minute. A short video of scanner in operation can be seen here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YBhxF_W27ls According to the manufacturer, the first installed unit scanned over 1.6 million logs during first 9 months of operation with only preventative maintenance and no mechanical problems. This indicates that the CT.Log™ is robust enough for industrial application. To date, there are 6 CT.Log™ installations, with 2 of those being in the US. One is in Indiana and the other in Idaho, Objective 2: Demonstrate the Technology. Fully accomplished. The software for visualization, analysis and optimization of CT volumetric data for hardwood processing in hardwood veneer mills and sawmills has been successfully developed, licensed and commercialized through Purdue University Research Foundation under the name LogView™. Both, CT.Log™ and LogView™ are currently available for purchase. Since its market introduction in August 2012, six CT.Log™ units have been sold and installed worldwide.

Publications

  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2017 Citation: Vlosky, R.P., C. Tasdemir, R. Gazo, and D. Cassens. 2017. A Mid-Recession and Post-Recession Comparison of Chain-of-Custody Certification in the U.S. Value-Added Wood Product Manufacturing Sector. DRVNA INDUSTRIJA. 68 (1):45-52.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Awaiting Publication Year Published: 2017 Citation: Uysal M., Tasdemir, C., Haviarova, E. and R. Gazo. 2017. DFMA Based Manufacturing Feasibility and Load carrying Capacity of CNC Cut Joints. Submitted to Journal of Manufacturing Systems.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2017 Citation: Vlosky, R., Tasdemir, C., Gazo, R. and D. Cassens. 2017. A Mid-Recession and Post-Recession Comparison of Chain-of-Custody Certification in the U.S. Value-Added Wood Product Manufacturing Sector. 71st Forest Products Society Meeting, Starkville, Mississippi.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2017 Citation: Tasdemir, C., Gazo, R., and H. Quesada. 2017. Incorporating Lean and Green: Evolving into a more Efficient and Responsible Manufacturing and Logistics State. IUFRO & SWST Division 5 Conference, Vancouver, Canada.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2017 Citation: Tasdemir, C. and R. Gazo. 2017. A New Integrated Tool to Assess True Sustainability Performance of Supply Chains. 71st Forest Products Society Meeting, Starkville, Mississippi.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2017 Citation: Tasdemir, C. and R. Gazo. 2017. Integrating Sustainability into Lean Supply Chain Management for a more Efficient and Responsible Manufacturing and Logistics State. FNR Research Symposium, West Lafayette, IN.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2017 Citation: Wells, L., Gazo, R., Krs, V. and B. Benes. 2017. Automated Hardwood Lumber Grading. 71st Forest Products Society Meeting, Starkville, MS.


Progress 10/01/15 to 09/30/16

Outputs
Target Audience:Hardwood Processing Industry Hardwood Sawmills Hardwood Lumber Concentration/Distribution Yards Secondary Wood Processing Operations Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Trained inspector at the NHLA Lumber Inspector School. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Indiana Hardwood Lumbermen's Association National Hardwood Lumber Association What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Hardwood Lumber Grading System proof of concept trial in an actual sawmill.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? Finetuning the NHLA Hardwood Lumber Grading algorithm.

Publications

  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Tasdemir, C. and Gazo, R. (2015). Current Trends in Furniture Trade. Poster presented at the 58th SWST International Convention: Renewable Materials and the Bio-Economy, Jackson, Wyoming.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Uysal. M., Tasdemir, C., Haviarova, E., Gazo, R. (2015). Manufacturing Feasibility and Load Caring Capacity of CNC-Joinery Systems. Poster presented at the 58th SWST International Convention: Renewable Materials and the Bio-Economy, Jackson, Wyoming.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Tasdemir, C. and Gazo, R. (2015). Trends in U.S. Furniture Trade. Paper presented at the 58th SWST International Convention: Renewable Materials and the Bio-Economy, Jackson, Wyoming.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Uysal. M., Tasdemir, C., Haviarova, E. and Gazo, R. (2015). Determining Tension and Compression Strength and Basic Manufacturing Feasibility of CNC Router-cut Joints. Paper presented at the 58th SWST International Convention: Renewable Materials and the Bio- Economy, Jackson, Wyoming.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Vlosky, R.P., C. Tasdemir, R. Gazo, and D. Cassens. 2015. A Temporal View of U.S. Value-Added Wood Product Manufacturers and Certification: 2001, 2007, and 2014. Adriatic Wood Days: WoodEMA Conference: Wood Processing and Furniture Manufacturing- Challenges on the World Market. Mlini, Croatia.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Gazo, R., Krs, V. and B. Benes. 2015. New Scanning Technology for the Hardwood Industry. Marketing Hardwood Veneer Logs and Trees. Workshop for Consultant Foresters and Landowners. Southeast Purdue Agricultural Center. North Vernon, IN.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Gazo, R., Krs, V. and B. Benes. 2015. New Scanning Technology for the Hardwood Industry. Marketing Hardwood Veneer Logs and Trees. Workshop for Log Producers and Sawmill Operators. Southeast Purdue Agricultural Center. North Vernon, IN
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Vlosky, R.P., C. Tasdemir, R. Gazo, and D. Cassens. 2015. he U.S. Value-Added Wood Product Manufacturers and Certification Over Time: 2001, 2007 & 2014. INTERCATHEDRA, Poland. 31(2):110-116.
  • Type: Book Chapters Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Vlosky, R.P., C. Tasdemir, R. Gazo, and D. Cassens. 2015. A Temporal View of U.S. Value-Added Wood Product Manufacturers and Certification: 2001, 2007, and 2014. In Jelacic, D. and R. Vlosky (Eds). 2015 Adriatic Wood Days: Wood Processing and Furniture Manufacturing- Challenges on the World Market. ISBN 978-953-57822-4-7 WoodEMA/Forest Products Society. Publisher: WoodEMA i.a. pp. 179-184.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Vlosky, R.P., C. Tasdemir, R. Gazo and D. Cassens. 2015. A Temporal View of U.S. Value-Added Wood Product Manufacturers and Certification: 2001, 2007 & 2014. In: Proceedings. Wood Processing and Furniture Manufacturing Challenges on the World Market. WoodEMA Conference. Dubrovnik, Croatia.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Gazo, R. and E. Haviarova. 2015. Overview hardwood lumber manufacturing. NHLA, Memphis, TN
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Gazo, R., Krs, V. and B. Benes. 2015. Overview of current world wide log scanning technology and its potential. Scanning and Sawing Hardwood Logs Demonstration. Workshop for hardwood mill owners, managers, log buyers and processors. Southeast Purdue Agricultural Center. North Vernon, IN.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Gazo, R. 2015. Hardwood Log CT Scanning and Hardwood Lumber Grading. National Hardwood Lumber Annual Convention, Nashville, TN.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Gazo, R. 2015. Computer-assisted hardwood lumber grading. NHLA, Memphis, TN
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2016 Citation: Gazo, R. 2016. Hardwood Log CT Scanning and Hardwood Lumber Grading. National Hardwood Lumber Annual Convention, Washington, DC.


Progress 10/01/14 to 09/30/15

Outputs
Target Audience:Hardwood log and lumber manufacturers, landowners, DNR professionals and equipment suppliers. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Two short courses for DNR professionals, landowners and hardwood log veneer and lumber producres have been conducted to demonstrate CT scanning and optimization system for hardwood veneer and lumber production. Gazo, R., Krs, V. and B. Benes. 2015. New Scanning Technology for the Hardwood Industry. Marketing Hardwood Veneer Logs and Trees. Workshop for Consultant Foresters and Landowners. Southeast Purdue Agricultural Center. North Vernon, IN. Participants: 40. Gazo, R., Krs, V. and B. Benes. 2015. New Scanning Technology for the Hardwood Industry. Marketing Hardwood Veneer Logs and Trees. Workshop for Log Producers and Sawmill Operators. Southeast Purdue Agricultural Center. North Vernon, IN. Participants: 20. ? How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Workshops listed above had 40 and 20 participants, respectively. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Commercialize hardwood lumber grading technology. Continue to improve grading algorithm and implement various speceies grading exceptions.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? National Hardwood Lumber Association has now carried out two hardwood lumber grading school courses on line, based on the template developed by PI. Hardwood lumber grading software program has been developed and integrated with commercially available lumber scanner. It is now ready for commercialization.

Publications

  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Vlosky, R.P., C. Tasdemir, R. Gazo and *D. Cassens. 2015. A Temporal View of U.S. Value-Added Wood Product Manufacturers and Certification: 2001, 2007 & 2014. In: Proceedings. Wood Processing and Furniture Manufacturing Challenges on the World Market. WoodEMA Conference. Dubrovnik, Croatia.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Gazo, R. 2015. Hardwood Log CT Scanning and Hardwood Lumber Grading. National Hardwood Lumber Annual Convention, Nashville, TN.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Gazo, R., Krs, V. and B. Benes. 2015. New Scanning Technology for the Hardwood Industry. Marketing Hardwood Veneer Logs and Trees. Workshop for Consultant Foresters and Landowners. Southeast Purdue Agricultural Center. North Vernon, IN.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Gazo, R., Krs, V. and B. Benes. 2015. New Scanning Technology for the Hardwood Industry. Marketing Hardwood Veneer Logs and Trees. Workshop for Log Producers and Sawmill Operators. Southeast Purdue Agricultural Center. North Vernon, IN.
  • Type: Book Chapters Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Vlosky, R.P., C. Tasdemir, R. Gazo, and D. Cassens. 2015. A Temporal View of U.S. Value-Added Wood Product Manufacturers and Certification: 2001, 2007, and 2014. In Jelacic, D. and R. Vlosky (Eds). 2015 Adriatic Wood Days: Wood Processing and Furniture Manufacturing- Challenges on the World Market. ISBN 978-953-57822-4-7 WoodEMA/Forest Products Society. Publisher: WoodEMA i.a. pp. 179-184.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Gazo, R., Vanek, J., Abdul-Massih, M., and B. Benes. 2014. CT scanning of logs  analysis and optimization for better utilization of hardwoods. In: Proceedings of Society of Wood Science and Technology 2014 International Convention - Sustainable Resources and Technology for Forest Products. Zvolen, Slovakia, pp.


Progress 10/01/13 to 09/30/14

Outputs
Target Audience: Academic, industrial Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? Hardwood Lumber Grading inspector training workshop How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? Dec. 2013 - National Hardwood Lumber Association grading school - workshop to inspectors. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Work on hardwood lumber grading automation.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? Currently, in order to become a certified hardwood lumber inspector, a person has to attend inspector Training School at National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA)headquarters in Memphis, TN for a period of 12 weeks and then pass an exam. For most people, this involves being away from their job and family for this period of time. In cooperation with NHLA we developed an online training and testing tool that enables future inspectors to study on-line. NHLA has already accepted and implemented our tool into their new curriculum. Starting in January 2015, inspectors will have an option to sign up for an online course that involves 2 weeks in Memphis, 8 weeks of home study and another 2 weeks in Memphis. Online training tool includes study and practice of calculations used in lumber grading such as surface measure, cutting units, board feet, defect types and classification, etc.

Publications

  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Gazo, R., Vanek, J., Abdul-Massih, M., Haviarova, E., and B. Benes. 2013. An Efficient Pith Detection for Computer Tomography Scanned Logs Using CUDA. International IUFRO In: Proceedings of MeMo Wood  Measurement methods and modeling approaches for predicting desirable future wood properties. Nancy, France. Electronic.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Gazo, R., Vanek, J., Abdul-Massih, M., and B. Benes. 2014. CT scanning of logs  analysis and optimization for better utilization of hardwoods. In: Proceedings of Society of Wood Science and Technology 2014 International Convention - Sustainable Resources and Technology for Forest Products. Zvolen, Slovakia.


Progress 10/01/12 to 09/30/13

Outputs
Target Audience: Primary hardwood producers -sawmills and veneer slicing mills. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? Two PhD graduate students involved in developing the CT scanning analysis and visualization software are nearing completion of their studies. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? Meier, A., Saunders, M. R., Gazo, R. and Ch. H. Michler. 2012. Assessing past epicormic dynamics in pole-size white oak logs with CT scanning. Central Hardwoods Conference. Morgantown, West Virginia. Abstract p. Gazo, R., Vanek, J., Abdul-Massih, M., Haviarova, E., and B. Benes. 2013. An Efficient Pith Detection for Computer Tomography Scanned Logs Using CUDA. International IUFRO Conference: MeMo Wood – Measurement methods and modeling approaches for predicting desirable future wood properties. Nancy, France. Abstract p. 36. Gazo, R., and B. Benes. 2013. Computed Tomography Log Scanning: An Industrial Application. 4th International Scientific Conference on Hardwood Processing. Florence, Italy. Abstract p. 34. Gazo, R. 2012. Use of CT scanning in log processing. Timber Processing & Energy Expo. Portland, OR. Gazo, R. 2012. Benefits of Hardwood Log CT scanning. 2nd International Conference on Processing Technologies for the Forest and Bio-based Products Industries. St. Simons Island, GA. Gazo, R. 2013. Innovations in Wood Processing. Sustainability and Innovation in the Wood Products Industry. Forestry Commission workshop for International Forestry Day. Zapote, Costa Rica. Gazo, R. 2013. Graduate Program in Department of Forestry and Natural Resources at Purdue University. Costa Rica Institute of Technology. Cartago, Costa Rica. Gazo, R., and J. Vanek. 2013. Computed Tomography Log Scanning: An Industrial Application. University of Bio Bio. Concepcion, Chile. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Improve defect classification and NHLA board gradining alogorithms within the LogView analysis and visualization software.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? An Efficient Pith Detection for Computed Tomography Scanned Logs Tree and log evaluation prior to processing is traditionally conducted by visual inspection of the outside surface. This approach has obvious limitations, because many internal features cannot be directly observed. Just recently, computed tomography-based (CT) approaches allowed visualization and analysis of the internal wood structure. The data gathering reveals the internal structure in a form of successive2D discrete images in limited resolutions in both spatial and value domains. Fast extraction of the structural information about the log defects presents a new challenge. Wedeveloped a new approach for real-time pith detection from CT-scanned log data. The input of our system is a set of 2D images that were collected during the CT scan and the output is the set of voxels that have been identified as pith. In the first step, we reconstruct the full 3D volume and perform the histogram equalization to fully explore the dynamic range of the provided input data. Then we use two new methods for pith detection. The first is more precise and it uses regular ring structure detection in each log cross-section to localize pith in the center of all rings. We use Canny filter to preprocess data and extract edges and Hough Transform to find center of all concentric growth rings. Center is found as the highest value of the accumulator after Hough Transform. The second method is suitable for noisy data where ring structure is not clearly represented and it uses the outer log boundary. Pith position is approximated by shrinking the outer boundary into single point. Both methods can be combined based on the clarity of input data. We used massively parallel modern graphics processing unit (GPU) to analyze the data in real-time. The entire system is implemented in CUDA and we can process up to 1GB of log data in less than 10 seconds with high precision.

Publications

  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Song, M. and R. Gazo. 2013. Competitiveness of US Household and Office Furniture Industry. Journal of Economics and Management Engineering. 3(2): 47-55.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Zhang, M., Wang, X. and R. Gazo. 2013. Water States in Yellow Poplar during Drying Studied by Time-Domain NMR. Wood and Fiber Science. 45(4):423-428.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Gazo,R., and B. Benes. 2013. Computed Tomography Log Scanning: An Industrial Application. In: Proceedings of ISCHP 2013  4th International Scientific Conference on Hardwood Processing. Florence, Italy, pp.140-147.


Progress 10/01/11 to 09/30/12

Outputs
OUTPUTS: A workshop in southern Indiana was organized to disseminate results of our study to approximately 40 industry participants. Song, M. and R. Gazo. 2011. Competitiveness of US Household and Office Furniture Industry. Southern Indiana Network for the Advancement of Manufacturing. Jasper, IN. PARTICIPANTS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period. TARGET AUDIENCES: Saw miller operators adn lumber industry PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

Impacts
The development of first commercially available industrial-grade CT scanner for hardwood logs was completed and the scanner was delivered to a customer. Customer approved and accepted the scanner and is in 1-year process of testing and evaluating the technology. Software development continues and is currently focused on development of alghoritms for internal log defect classification. It is too early to judge outcome/impacts of this project.

Publications

  • Quesada, H., Gazo, R, and S. Sanchez. 2011. Critical Factors Affecting Supply Chain Management: A Case Study in the US Pallet Industry. Pathways to Supply Chain Excellence. ISBN 979-953-307-234-9. Pp. 33-113.
  • Zhang, M. and R. Gazo. 2011. Moisture Regain in Kiln-Dried Wood. Wood and Wood Products. NOVA SCIENCE Publishers. Accepted in December 2011 in Print. 45 pages.
  • Chang, J. and R. Gazo. 2011. Maximizing the value of foresters hard work. Society of American Foresters 2011 National Convention. Honolulu, Hawaii. Abstracts p. 587.
  • Song, M. and R. Gazo. 2012. Competitiveness of US Household and Office Furniture. Proceedings of the 2012 IUFRO D5 Conference Forest Products. Lisbon, Portugal.
  • Gazo, R. and J. Chang. 2012. Hardwood Log CT scanning. Proceedings of the 2012 IUFRO D5 Conference Forest Products. Lisbon, Portugal.
  • Zhang, M., and R. Gazo. 2012. Water in Wood Studied by Time-domain NMR. Sustainable Development of Wood and Biomass in our new Global Economy. Proceedings of the Society of Wood Science and Technology and International Center for Bamboo and Ratan International Convention. Beijing, China.


Progress 10/01/10 to 09/30/11

Outputs
OUTPUTS: 1 book chapter, 2 presentations to scientific audiences, 4 extension presentations. PARTICIPANTS: Co-PI: Minghui Zhang, Professor, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, China TARGET AUDIENCES: Hardwood industry PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

Impacts
Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) can be used to measure the proton density in liquids, and thus moisture content (MC) of wood. However, traditional NMR method for measuring MC requires weighting of a sample several times in order to obtain the linear relationship between signal amplitude and moisture content. To improve this method, we studied the use of copper sulfate solution as a marker to determine MC rapidly, without need for repeated weight measurements.The experiment data show that copper sulfate solution used as a marker for wood moisture content measurement is applicable. We found that this method obtains the moisture content measurement with only one weighting of the sample. In addition, different water condition ratios are easily calculated according to spin-spin relaxation time. The method is rapid and non-destructive. Usually it takes 3 minutes to obtain a reading. The method has its limitations. It can only be used to measure small wood samples. It is therefore more adaptable to the laboratory than to industry.

Publications

  • Gazo, R., Gisip, J., and H.A. Stewart. 2011. Reducing Tool Wear by Cryogenic Treatment and Cooling with Refrigerated Air when Processing Medium Density Fiberboard. Wood Machining. London, UK:ISTE Ltd and John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Pp. 83-113.
  • Zhang, M., and R. Gazo. 2010. Quick Moisture Content Measurement with Time Domain MNR. Forest Products Society 64th International Convention. Madison, WI. Abstracts p. 125.


Progress 10/01/09 to 09/30/10

Outputs
OUTPUTS: One refereed journal article, one book chapter, one extension article, four articles in refereed proceeding, one published abstract, three scientific presentations and six extension presentations have been given to academic and industrial audiences. PARTICIPANTS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period. TARGET AUDIENCES: Timber and sawmill industry PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

Impacts
The effect of internal log defect scanning on the gain in lumber value recovery for five hardwood species, consisting of black cherry, hard maple, yellow poplar, red oak, and white oak logs was investigated. A total of 29 logs, 6 logs per species and 2 logs each for log Grades 1, 2, and 3, were scanned with a medical X-ray computed tomography scanner to acquire their cross-sectional images. The one exception being for red oak logs, for which we scanned two Grade 1 logs, one Grade 2 log, and two Grade 3 logs. These logs were then sawn in the sawmill to determine the actual value recovered from each log. Virtual logs constructed with the scanning images of these logs were then sawn on the computer using the TOPSAW software. Based on simple live sawing simulations, overall the average value gain for all species and grades was 46%, while the gains for black cherry, hard maple, yellow poplar, red oak, and white oak were 42, 33, 83, 24, and 60 percent, respectively. The average gains for Grades 1, 2, and 3 logs were 27, 47, and 97 percent, respectively. Regression analysis of the gains indicated that while there are no significant differences among the species, the gain for Grade 3 logs was significantly different from other log grades.

Publications

  • Chang, J. and R. Gazo. 2009. Measuring the effect of internal log defect scanning on the value of lumber produced. Forest Products Journal. 59(11/12):56-59.
  • Kodzi, E.T., and R. Gazo. 2009. Operationalizing Mass Customization - A conceptual Model Based on Recent Studies in Furniture Manufacturing. In: Piller, F. and Tseng, M. Making Customer Centricity Work: Advances in Mass Customization and Personalization. Volume 1: Strategies and Concepts. Hackensack, NJ/London/Singapore: World Scientific Press. Pp. 79-96.
  • Simek, M., Haviarova, E., and R. Gazo. 2009. CNC wood processing for furniture industry innovations and competitiveness. In Proceedings of the conference "Forest, Wildlife and Wood Science for Society". University of Life Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic. 7p. http://is.mendelu.cz/pracoviste/publikace.plpodrobnosti=141234;id=38
  • Chang, J. and R. Gazo. 2009. Hardwood Log CT scanning - Proof of Concept. In Proceedings of ISCHP 09 - 2nd International Scientific Conference on Hardwood Processing. FCBA Paris, France.
  • Haviarova, E., and R. Gazo. 2010. Enhancing the Competitiveness of Forest Product Industry by Developing Web Community Portal. In Proceedings of Economika a Manazement Podnikov 2010 International Scientific Conference. Technical Univerzity, Zvolen, Slovakia. CD ROM, 9 pages.
  • Gazo, R. and J. Chang. 2010. Hardwood Log CT scanning - Proof of Concept. In Proceedings of Joint UNECE Timber Committee Session and Society of Wood Science and Technology International Convention: Innovative Wood Products are the Future. United Nations, Geneva, Switzerland. CD ROM, 5 pages.
  • Zhang, M., and R. Gazo. 2010. Quick Moisture Content Measurement with Time Domain MNR. Forest Products Society 64th International Convention. Madison, WI. Abstracts p. 125.
  • Vlosky, R. P., Gazo, R., and *D. Cassens. 2009. Have U.S. Value-Added Wood Product Manufacturer Perceptions about Certification Changed in the past 6 Years Wood & Wood Products Magazine.


Progress 10/01/08 to 09/30/09

Outputs
OUTPUTS: Three journal articles, one book chapter, one extension article, four scientific presentations and 2 extension presentations have been given to academic and industrial audiences. PARTICIPANTS: Not relevant to this project. TARGET AUDIENCES: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

Impacts
The application of refrigerated air on solid tungsten carbide tools reduces wear. Additionally, a combination of cryogenic treatment and refrigerated air at 4.4 degrees Celsius for tool cooling increases the wear resistance of tungsten carbide tools significantly, and tool wear is reduced. The cobalt binder is better-retained, and the tungsten carbide grains are also retained, and exhibiting reduced high-temperature oxidation or corrosion deterioration. Retention of the cobalt binder assists in reducing tool wear, as indicated in previous studies. Improving the resistance of the binder to oxidation or corrosion improves tool life. Reducing the heat in the cutting zone with refrigerated air reduces tool wear. The combination of refrigerated air and cryogenically-treated tungsten carbide enhances tool life primarily by retaining more of the cobalt binder during wood machining. Therefore, reduced wear of the tungsten carbide tool when cutting medium density fiberboard is obtained using a combination of cryogenic treatment and refrigerated air; these technologies, when used in concert, may improve productivity and efficiency for the wood manufacturing sectors. An exploratory customer preference study used a simulated customization activity as a means of examining the determinants of customer willingness to participate in the co-configuration process of purchasing customized furniture. Specifically, 56 participants were surveyed in order to determine reasonable thresholds for the basic inconveniences associated with mass customization, including time invested, premiums paid, and lead times accommodated. The study suggests that there is indeed business potential for collaborative furniture customization and that better understanding the linkages that exist between observed customer characteristics and willingness to participate in the co-configuration process will facilitate a superior purchasing experience for buyers of customized furniture.

Publications

  • Gisip, J., Gazo, R., and H. A. Stewart. 2009. Effects of cryogenic treatment and refrigerated air on tool wear when machining medium density fiberboard. Journal of Materials Processing Technology. 209(11):5117-5122. Vlosky, R., Gazo, R., Cassens, D., and P. Perera. 2009. Changes in Value-Added Wood Product Manufacturer Perceptions about Certification in the United States from 2002-2008. Drvna Industrija Croatia. 60(2):89-94.
  • Kodzi, E. T., and R. Gazo. 2009. Customer Readiness for Product Co-Design - Perspectives from Furniture Customization. Journal of Forest Products Business Research. 6(6):1-12.
  • Kodzi, E.T., and R. Gazo, 2009. Resource implications of manufacturer-customer interactions in Mass Customization. In: Germanakos, O. and Mourlas, C. Mass Customization for Personalized Communication Environments: Integrating Human Factors. Hershey, PA: IGI Global. Pp. 23-34.


Progress 10/01/07 to 09/30/08

Outputs
OUTPUTS: We located a subcontractor for development and manufacture of the CT scanner and are preparing legal framework so we can move forward. At the same time, we are refining specifications for an industrial grade hardwood log CT scanner. We also developed a software that enables user to view, analyze and manipulate images of logs obtained by the CT scanner. PARTICIPANTS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period. TARGET AUDIENCES: Saw mill operators and wood industry managers PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

Impacts
Too early to see impacts of this stage of our project.

Publications

  • Kodzi, E. T. and R. Gazo. 2008. A study of mode-specific interactions between customers and manufacturing systems in mass customization. 8 pages in Proceeding of the 2007 World Conference of Mass Customization and Personalization. Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Cambridge, Massachusetts. In print.
  • Gazo, R. and J. Chang. 2007. Hardwood Scanning Center. 2006 The Year at a Glance. Hardwood Market Report. 2007(1):131-135.


Progress 10/01/06 to 09/30/07

Outputs
OUTPUTS: In summer of 2007, we conducted a hardwood scanning "Proof of Concept" trial test. Leased CT scanning equipment along with log handling and scanning infrastructure was developed and installed at a commercial high quality hardwood sawmill in Indiana. We scanned and processed 60 hardwood logs to determine the feasibility of the overall approach. The approach was demonstrated to interested industry, government, academic stakeholders at a very successful public demonstration event attended by more than 65 people. This event was covered by various media, including Associated Press http://www.kstp.com/article/stories/S107822.shtml and Indiana Economic Digest http://www.indianaeconomicdigest.net/main.asp?SectionID=31&SubSection ID=68&ArticleID=35084 and National Hardwood Lumber Association magazine Hardwood Matters http://www.nhla.com/pdf/Hardwood%20Matters/HM-%20August%2007.pdf PARTICIPANTS: Rado Gazo, Associate Professor, Purdue University Joseph Chang, Professor, Louisiana State University Emmanuel Kodzi, Research Associate, Purdue University Henry Quesada, Associate Professor, Institute of Technology, Costa Rica TARGET AUDIENCES: US furniture Industry US hardwood sawmills and veneer mills PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: No major changes

Impacts
It is too early to tell. The data collected from summer study are being analyzed.

Publications

  • Quesada, H., and R. Gazo. 2007. Methodology for Determining Key Internal Business Processes Based on Critical Success Factors: A Case Study in Furniture Industry. Business Process Management Journal. 13(1):5-20.
  • Quesada, H., and R. Gazo. 2007. Best Manufacturing Practices and their Linkage to Top-Performing Companies in the US Furniture Industry. Benchmarking: An International Journal. 14(2): 211-221.
  • Zhang, M., Gazo, R., Cassens, D. and J. Xie. 2007. Isothermal Water Vapor Adsorption Process in Kiln Dried Red Oak. Wood and Fiber Science. 39(3):397-403.
  • Gisip, J., Gazo, R., and H. A. Stewart. 2007. Effects of refrigerated air on tool wear. Wood and Fiber Science. 39(3):443-449.
  • Kodzi, E. T., Gazo, R., and R. Vlosky. 2007. Commonality of Machine Centers: Opportunities for Product Line Extension. Forest Products Journal. 57(5):41-49.
  • Kodzi, E. T., Lihra, T., and R. Gazo. 2007. Process Transformation Mandates for Manufacturing Customized Furniture. Journal of Forest Products Business Research, 4(8):1-16.
  • Quesada, H., and R. Gazo. 2006. Mass Layoffs and Plant Closures in the US Primary and Secondary Wood Products Industries. Forest Products Journal. 56(10):101-106.
  • Quesada, H., and R. Gazo. 2007. Distribution Properties of Financial Ratios and Performance of the Furniture Industry: A Comparison Based on Critical Financial Factors. Journal of Forest Products Business Research. 4(3):1-21.


Progress 10/01/05 to 09/30/06

Outputs
It is widely accepted that some segments of the US furniture manufacturing industry have lost considerable market share to lower-priced imported furniture. This situation demands that furniture manufacturers give attention to alternative manufacturing strategies, such as value-delivery, if competitiveness is to be regained. Mass customization principles inherently gear manufacturing toward value-delivery and could potentially be used as a framework to guide the manufacturing transformations that are necessary to improve the competitiveness of the US furniture industry. Through the use of surveys, case studies and scenario simulations, this study examined the mechanisms by which mass customization might impact the competitiveness of US furniture manufacturers. The study involved tracing the path between drivers of effective customization and indicators of competitiveness for businesses adopting mass customization. The study also proposes a conceptual framework for analyzing how industry competitiveness in the domestic market might be impacted by associated changes in the manufacturing landscape.

Impacts
Mass customization has a significant effect on the competitiveness of the implementing company. To the extent that local industries exploit proximity advantages over offshore manufacturers, the successful adoption of mass customization as a strategy for furniture manufacturers can be expected to have a significant positive effect on the competitiveness of the entire industry.

Publications

  • No publications reported this period


Progress 10/01/04 to 09/30/05

Outputs
Cooling cutting tools and cryogenic treatment resulted in the reduction of tool wear. This study used six two-flute, tungsten carbide tools to machine MDF on a CNC router with a total of over 166,000 m length of cut per flute. Three of the six tools were cryogenically treated. A combination of cryogenic and non-cryogenic tools was used to cut at three different temperatures, i.e. at -6.7 Deg. Celsius, 4.4 Deg. Celsius and, 21 Deg. Celsius. A vortex tube produced air of -6.7 Deg. Celsius and 4.4 Deg. Celsius which was used to cool the tool during cutting. A current draw of the router spindle was measured with power analysis equipment to monitor the router bit performance. Surface quality from cutting was observed according to an ASTM Standard. Tool wear was analyzed with the light microscope and scanning electron microscope (SEM). Elemental analysis using SEM was conducted in order to characterize and quantify elements present on the tools.

Impacts
Use of refrigerated air and cryogenic treatment is expected to reduce tool wear, and thus increase tool life between 15 and 220 percent.

Publications

  • No publications reported this period


Progress 10/01/03 to 09/29/04

Outputs
This study reviews competitive strategies of furniture manufacturers both domestic and those exporting to the US. Customer satisfaction, price, innovation and shareholder satisfaction are the main critical success factors defined by publicly held US furniture manufacturers. A mix of cheap labor, modern technology, access to raw materials, know-how, and favorable exchange rates give a competitive edge to overseas competitors as compared to US furniture manufacturers. In addition, most foreign manufacturers are largely supported by their governments.

Impacts
The comparison of US furniture manufacturers against world class performers showed that the furniture industry is lagging behind world top performers in almost all of the analyzed performance measures. The industry will have to reinvent itself to combat this threat.

Publications

  • No publications reported this period


Progress 10/01/02 to 09/30/03

Outputs
For this reporting period our study focused on outlining performance of publicly-held U.S. furniture manufacturers by analyzing available financial and stock reports. The purpose was to identify critical success factors that make these companies successful and to compare them to performance of world-class manufacturers in other industries. Most important strategies of overseas furniture manufacturing competitors were described as well. We found that customer satisfaction, price, innovation and shareholder satisfaction are among the main critical success factors defined by furniture manufacturers. When furniture manufacturers were compared to world class companies in other industries, a statistical test revealed that furniture manufacturers underachieved in the majority of performance parameters such as lead time, cycle time, on-time delivery, return on assets, return on investment, etc. Results also showed that most of U.S. furniture manufacturing overseas competitors are largely supported by their governments. A mix of cheap labor, modern technology, access to raw materials and favorable regulatory environment give competitive advantage to overseas competitors.

Impacts
The comparison of US furniture manufacturers against world class performers showed that the furniture industry is lagging behind world top performers in almost all of the analyzed performance measures. The industry will have to reinvent itself to combat this threat.

Publications

  • Quesada, H., and R. Gazo. 2002. Development of an Internal Benchmarking Methodology for Solid Wood Furniture Manufacturing. Forest Products Society 56th Annual Meeting, Madison, WI. Abstracts p. 9.
  • Pinto, C., Gazo, R., McGlothlin, J., and Y. Yih. 2002. Ergonomic Intervention for the Secondary Wood Products Industry: A Case Study. Forest Products Society 56th Annual Meeting, Madison, WI. Abstracts p. 14.
  • Quesada, H., and R. Gazo. 2003. Benchmarking Methodology Based on Critical Success Factors for the Wood Furniture Industry. Forestry and Natural Resources Research Symposium. Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN. Abstracts p. 18.
  • Zhang, M., Gazo, R., and D. Cassens. 2003. Moisture Content Distribution over Time in a Dried Red Oak Package. Forestry and Natural Resources Research Symposium. Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN. Abstracts p. 28.
  • Dahle, G., Holt, H., Chaney, B., Whalen, T., McKenzie, R.,Cassens, D., and R. Gazo. 2003. Influence of Pruning Methods on Tree Health and Reliability. Forestry and Natural Resources Research Symposium. Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN. Abstracts p. 4.
  • Gazo, R., Vlosky, R., and D. Cassens. 2003. Furniture, Fixtures, Architectural Woodwork, and Cabinet Manufacturers Awareness and Perceptions of Certification, Part I. Forest Products Society 57th Annual Meeting, Seattle, WA. Abstracts p. 13.
  • Gazo, R., Vlosky, R., and D. Cassens. 2003. Furniture, Fixtures, Architectural Woodwork, and Cabinet Manufacturers Awareness and Perceptions of Certification, Part II. Forest Products Society 57th Annual Meeting, Seattle, WA. Abstracts p. 44.
  • Quesada, H., and R. Gazo. 2003. Benchmarking Methodology Based on Critical Success Factors for the Wood Furniture Industry. Forest Products Society 57th Annual Meeting, Seattle, WA. Abstracts p. 26.
  • Quesada, H., and R. Gazo. 2003. Benchmarking Methodology Based on Critical Success Factors for the Wood Furniture Industry. Forest Products Society 57th Annual Meeting, Seattle, WA. Abstracts p. 50.
  • Zhang, M., Gazo, R., and D. Cassens. 2003. Modeling a regain of moisture in a package of dried red oak lumber. Forest Products Society 57th Annual Meeting, Seattle, WA. Abstracts p. 34.
  • Quesada, H., and *. Gazo. 2002. Design of a Manufacturing System for the Construction of School Furniture. Forest Prod. J. 53(9):47-54.
  • Gazo, R., McGlothlin, J., Yih, Y., and J. *Wiedenbeck. 2002. Ergonomics and Safety in Secondary Wood Processing. Current Topics in the Processing and Utilization of Hardwood Lumber. National Hardwood Lumber Association Annual Symposium. Fall Creek Falls, TN. Proceedings pp. 114-121.
  • Beauregard, R., Clement, C., Gazo, R., and T. LIHRA. 2002. Modeling of Component Recovery Potential and Analysis of Incidence of Defects in White Birch. Proceedings from the 4th workshop IUFRO WP S5-01-04, Harrison (Vancouver) BC.
  • Quesada, H., and R. Gazo. 2003. Benchmarking Study Based on Critical Success Factors for Household, Office and Kitchen Cabinet Wood Furniture Industries in US. 17th International Conference on Production Research. Balcksburg, Virginia. Proceedings paper No. 0409, 8p.
  • Clement, C., *Gazo, R., and R.*Beauregard. 2002. The Effects of Manufacturing Defects on Rough Mill Yield. Forest Products Society 56th Annual Meeting, Madison, WI. Abstracts p. 8.
  • Gazo, R., Beauregard, R., Lihra, T. and C.Clement. 2003. Evaluating the remanufacturing potential of underutilized wood species: The case of white birch. Rotorua, New Zealand. Proceedings p.176.


Progress 10/01/01 to 09/30/02

Outputs
Previously, the potential use of short-length (less than 8-foot-long) white birch lumber in the furniture industry is analyzed. A database of 5,574 board feet of both conventional length, NHLA-graded lumber and custom graded short-length, random width and length white birch boards was developed for use in the simulation. The effect of lumber length, grade, cutting bill and processing method on yield were analyzed. In this report period, first, the part distribution for conventional- and short-length Select, No. 1 Common, and No. 2A Common white birch lumber using rip- or crosscut-first processing with a furniture industry cutting bill was analyzed. ROMI RIP and ROMI CROSS simulations show that conventional-length lumber offers the greatest production flexibility because it is able to produce long and wide components. These components can be broken down into combinations of shorter length parts. Short-length lumber produces a greater variety of components in order to maximize the use of lumber. Crosscut-first lumber produces a higher volume yield, but this is due to salvage parts production that is much higher than when the same lumber is ripped first. Correspondence analysis was used to determine that lumber grade, processing method and lumber type are the three variables that explain most of the variability in component production. When variables were examined for each grade, it was determined that lumber type has little influence on variability for Select and No. 1 Common lumber but that it does play an important role in the parts distribution of low grade lumber (No. 2AC). Second, the effect of primary manufacturing mechanical damage on white birch lumber yield in the furniture industry was analyzed. Sawmill processing, particularly in the winter season and when processing short logs, can sometimes result in damaged wood. Lumber cut from these logs then contains not only natural, but also mechanical defects. The effects of spike marks, conveyer marks, machine gouge, drying checks, pressure roller stains and machine burn on yield were individually analyzed, and a relation to lumber characteristics (e.g. conventional or short-length) and furniture component yield was established.

Impacts
Increased recovery potential of white birch (betula papyrifera).

Publications

  • No publications reported this period


Progress 10/01/00 to 09/30/01

Outputs
This study analyzes the potential use of short-length (less than 8-foot-long) white birch lumber in the furniture industry. The effect of lumber length, grade, cutting bill and processing method on yield were analyzed. ROMI-RIP and ROMI-CROSS simulation software were used to model two traditional processing methods, rip-first and crosscut-first, respectively. Four cutting orders, furniture, panel, USDA easy and USDA tough were simulation-processed. A database of random width and length white birch boards containing information on all grade defects was developed for use in the simulation. For the purpose of this study, 5,574 board feet (bf) of lumber were used including conventional length, NHLA-graded lumber (1,156 bf of Select, 912 bf No.1 Common and 874 bf No.2A Common), and Custom graded short-length lumber (960 bf of Select, 970 bf of No.1 Common and 702 bf of No.2A Common). No FAS lumber was included. Highly significant yield differences were observed between Select and No 2 Common for conventional and short-length lumber - the former showing higher yields. Results indicate, however, that there is little difference in yield, when comparing No.1 Common short-length to conventional-length lumber with appropriate cutting bills. Results also indicate that crosscut-first rough milling generates a higher yield than rip-first rough milling.

Impacts
This analysis is of special interest to a value-added industry faced with scarcity and increasing cost of high quality lumber.

Publications

  • Clement, C., Gazo, R., Beauregard, R., and T. Lihra. 2001. Short-Length Lumber: Can it be used in Value-Added Products? Forest Products Society 55th Annual Meeting, Baltimore, MD. Abstracts p. 44.
  • Clement, C., Gazo, R., Beauregard, R., and T. Lihra. 2001. Roughmill Yield for Conventional- and Short Length White Birch Lumber. Forest Products Society 55th Annual Meeting, Baltimore, MD. Abstracts p. 20.


Progress 10/01/99 to 09/30/00

Outputs
In 1999/2000, following progress was made towards these objectives: Objective 1. Database of digitized white birch boards was constructed and incidence of defects was analyzed. Database consists of 2,206 boards (7,571bf, 17.86 m3) in four grades (Select, #1 Common, #2 Common, #3 Common). Boards came from conventional and short-log sawmills. During digitization, both natural (18 types) and machining defects (6 types) were recorded and their incidence analyzed. The most frequent defects in boards are knots, bark pockets and pin knots. The largest average size defects are areas of heartwood, of stain or decay and of knots. To complete this objective, database will be used to conduct simulations of remanufacturing white birch into value added wood products such as flooring, furniture and millwork. Objective 2. Ergonomic studies were initiated in 4 Indiana based companies. Walkthrough evaluations were conducted, incidence data about work related musculoskeletal disorders collected and management of pilot plants was instructed about how to setup and maintain ergonomics program.

Impacts
Objective 1. Construction of the database allows use of available simulation software to analyze remanufacturing potential of white birch, currently an underutilized species. Objective 2. This project has been initiated in last two months. Full impact of ergonomics programs is usually seen after 18 months from the initiation date. OSHA estimates that every dollar invested in ergonomics returns 2 dollars in increased profits, while reducing work related repetitive motion injuries by 50%.

Publications

  • No publications reported this period


Progress 10/01/97 to 09/30/98

Outputs
The main thrust of this project is in applying industrial engineering approach to secondary wood products manufacturing with the general intent to improve the overall manufacturing efficiency. Specifically, during the first year, two major activities are underway. First project, Determining the Suitability of Underutilized Species for Secondary Wood Products Manufacturing, analyzes the potential of underutilized species for industrial production, determines efficient processing methods and expands the use of simulation in wood processing industries into less researched areas, such as finish mill, finishing and assembly operations. Second project, Wood Products Manufacturing Ergonomics, looks at manufacturing efficiencies from human resource point of view. Progress up to date has been mainly in identifying and hiring graduate research assistants, bringing them up to speed and working on methodology. Future Plans. Above-mentioned activities are just two pieces of a larger "puzzle" of manufacturing efficiency. In the coming year a database of digitized lumber will be developed and simulation programs will be developed the year after. Also, a series of handbooks will be developed to serve as guides in improving ergonomics in wood products manufacturing. These two projects will create a foundation for further research of manufacturing efficiency.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

  • Gazo, R, Beauregard R., and S. Mitchel. 1998. Development of a database and its use to quantify incidence of defects in radiata pine random width boards. New Zealand Journal of Forest Science. 28 (3).
  • Beauregard, R., Gazo, R., Kimberly, M., Turner, J., Mitchel S., and T. Shelbourne. 1998. Genotype Variation in Radiata Pine Random Width Board Quality. Wood and Fiber Science. In print.
  • Gazo, R., Beauregard R., and S. Mitchel. 1998. Development of Database of Digitized Radiata Pine Random Width Lumber, Incidence of Defects. Emerging Sawmill Technologies to Capture Emerging Markets, Merida, Mexico. Abstracts, p. 26.
  • Gazo, R. 1998. Basic Principles of Industrial Ergonomics. Wood Technology Clinic and Show. Portland, Oregon. Abstracts pp. 1-6.