Progress 01/01/06 to 12/31/11
Outputs
OUTPUTS: The current sawing, edging and trimming practices were investigated at local small sawmills, and the factors that affect lumber volume and value recovery were analyzed. Log shape data and external defect locations were obtained from manual collection at local sawmills, and the internal defect locations were derived from a model developed by USDA Forest Service. All the data were entered into Access database. An algorithm to determine the best opening face on a hardwood log using log shape, surface defect data and log grades has been developed. Log grading procedure has been obtained by computer algorithm which is based on grading rules developed by Forest Service. Another lumber grading algorithm which integrated with National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA) grading rules has been completed to grade the sawn lumber. The research has resulted in the implementation of a procedure for the localization and reconstruction of internal defects in hardwood logs. Based on lumber grades and obtained internal defects, optimal sawing algorithms including heuristics and dynamic programming were designed and implemented for primary and secondary breakdowns of logs. Finally, we have developed a software system with user-friendly interfaces to implement the algorithms in 3-D visual simulation environment. When a sawyer selects a log from the database, a 3-D visual log will be generated and displayed in the screen. A circular cross-section model was used to represent the log. This model is closer to real log shapes since the data at each cross section can be different and it also considers log sweep. Various sawing operations including live sawing and grade sawing can be simulated on the virtual 3-D reconstruction of the log. By clicking command buttons and choosing the corresponding sawing parameters, the log can be sawn from the opening face. The user can change the sawing parameters, such as lumber sizing, cant sizing, sawing kerf width, and the intervals for sawing, edging and trimming used in dynamic programming algorithm to reproduce lumber at the same log. The generated optimal sawing patterns will be displayed in the 3-D environment. Users can view the lumber either from the small end or the large end of the log by rotating it. The detailed information about all the lumber including lumber dimension, surface measure area, volume, value, and grade will be displayed in the designated area of the screen. A preliminary sawing result has been produced by using either heuristic or dynamic programming algorithm. Comparing with real small sawmills within West Virginia lumber production, the results indicated that a significant gain in lumber value can be achieved by using this optimization system. In addition, the results also indicated that better solutions can be achieved by combining primary and secondary log breakdown than in the model that considers primary log breakdown only. The program is expected to be uploaded to a website and accessible to the general public for ease of use. PARTICIPANTS: (1) A graduate student worked in the Division of Forestry and Natural Resources, WVU. (2) Edward Thomas, Research Scientist, USDA Forest Service Northern Research Station. TARGET AUDIENCES: Owners of small-scale sawmills, and researchers. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Not relevant to this project.
Impacts
Maximizing the profits gained from the conversion of hardwood logs into hardwood lumber is a primary concern for sawmill owners. Recently there has been an increase in the competition for hardwood logs in order to meet increasing demands for timber products. It is critical to use timber resources efficiently because of the trends of increased log costs and limited availability. Given the current turbulent economic conditions, a complete analysis of sawing practices and lumber recovery would be beneficial for small-scale hardwood sawmills in West Virginia. Results indicated that factors such as log grade, log diameter, species, log sweep, log length, and interactions among these factors significantly affected lumber value and volume recovery. The development of optimal sawing system can provide the most efficient method of optimizing the grade and yield of hardwood lumber. Once log data information about the shape of log, external defects, and internal log defects is obtained by either manual collection or cost-effective log scanning techniques (for example, 3D laser scanner), a suitable sawing strategy combining the information is needed. In this project, a 3D log sawing optimization system was developed to perform 3D log generation, opening face determination, headrig log sawing simulation, flitch edging and trimming simulation, and lumber grading. During the production of lumber, the first cut determines the remaining cuts which must be either parallel or perpendicular to the first cut in the grade sawing method, so it will influence the lumber grade and yield. The opening face algorithm can help the sawmill operators to correctly select the first opening face, which is the very crucial part of receiving the highest yield lumber from the log. Once the opening face is determined, the system will find the optimum sawing patterns by using either a heuristic or dynamic programming (DP) algorithm. The profile of each piece of cut from the log along with its defect information is forwarded to the edging and trimming optimization component where the piece is optimally edged and trimmed by using either heuristic or DP algorithm. The information is then sent to the lumber grading procedures to determine the lumber grade. This process is repeated until all the possible cutting patterns are searched, resulting in the optimization of total lumber value. The system can be used as a decision-making system for hardwood lumber production at real sawmills to improve value yield recovery in the process of conversion of hardwood logs into lumber products. At the same time, the system can also be used a training tool for novice sawyers; they should then be trained well enough to provide a better service to the employer and therefore helps employer to maximize the profits. The result of this project will improve the sustainability and conservation of valuable hardwood forest resources in the US. In addition, the outcomes of the project also indirectly contributes to the green building movement by its inherent property of minimizing waste of valuable green products through efficient sawing.
Publications
- Lin, W., J. Wang, E. Thomas. 2011. A 3D optimal sawing system for small sawmills in central Appalachia. IN: Proceedings of the 17th Central Hardwood Forest Conference, Lexington, KY. April 5-7, 2010. USDA Forest Service General Technical Report. GTR-P-NRS-778.
- Lin, W., J. Wang, J. Wu, and D. Devallance. 2011. Assessment of log sawing practices and lumber recovery for small hardwood sawmills in West Virginia. Forest Prod. J. 61(3):216-224.
- Lin, W., J. Wang, and E. Thomas. 2011. A 3D optimal log sawing system for small sawmills in central Appalachia. Wood and Fiber Science, 43(4):379-393.
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Progress 01/01/10 to 12/31/10
Outputs
OUTPUTS: A literature review has been performed concerning previous hardwood sawmill sawing, edging, trimming, and grading studies. This review encompasses many published studies and provides background. The sawing, edging and trimming practices were investigated at local sawmills; factors that affect lumber volume and value recovery were analyzed. Log shape data and external defect locations were obtained by scanner; internal defect locations were derived from a model developed by the Forest Service. Data were entered into Access database. An algorithm to determine the best opening face on a hardwood log using log shape, surface defect data and log grades has been developed and is suitable to the grade sawing method. Log grading procedure has been obtained by computer algorithm based on grading rules developed by the Forest Service. Another lumber grading algorithm which integrated National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA) grading rules has been completed to grade the sawn lumber. Research has resulted in the implementation of a procedure for the localization and reconstruction of internal defects in hardwood logs. Only knots were considered for internal defects and a cone model was used to represent them. Based on lumber grades and obtained internal defects, optimal sawing algorithms including heuristics and dynamic programming were designed and implemented for primary and secondary breakdown. Lastly, we have developed a software system with user-friendly interfaces to implement the algorithms in a 3-D visual simulation environment. When a sawyer selects a log from the database, a 3-D visual log will be generated and displayed on screen. A circular cross-section model was used to represent the log. This model is closer to real log shapes since the data at each cross section can be different, and it also considers log sweep and log crook. Various sawing operations including live sawing and grade sawing can be simulated on the virtual 3-D reconstruction of the log. By clicking command buttons and choosing the corresponding sawing parameters, the log can be sawn from the opening face. The user can change the sawing parameters, such as lumber sizing, cant sizing, sawing kerf width, and the intervals for sawing, edging and trimming used in dynamic programming algorithm to reproduce lumber from the same log. The generated optimal sawing patterns will be displayed in the 3-D environment. Users can view the lumber either from the small end or the large end of the log by rotating it. The detailed information about all the lumber including lumber dimension, surface measure area, volume, value, and grade will be displayed in the designated area of the screen. A preliminary sawing result has been produced by using either a heuristic or dynamic programming algorithm. Results indicated that a significant gain in lumber value can be achieved by using this optimization system. In addition, the results also indicated that better solutions can be achieved by combining primary and secondary log breakdown. The program is expected to be uploaded to a website and accessible to the general public for ease of use and convenience. PARTICIPANTS: A graduate student in the Division of Forestry and Natural Resources, WVU. TARGET AUDIENCES: Owners of small-scale sawmills, and researchers. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Not relevant to this project.
Impacts
Maximizing the profits gained from the conversion of hardwood logs into hardwood lumber is a primary concern for sawmill owners. Recently there has been an increase in the competition for hardwood logs in order to meet increasing demands for timber products. It is also critical to use timber resources efficiently because of the trends of increased log costs and limited availability. The development of an optimal sawing system can provide the most efficient method of optimizing the grade and yield of hardwood lumber, which is a start to solving these problems. Once log data information about the shape of log, external defects, and internal log defects is obtained by cost-effective log scanning techniques (for example, 3D laser scanner), a suitable sawing strategy combining the information is needed. Because it is difficult to analyze all the scanned information without the use of an algorithm to provide the optimal solution, the key to the sawyer is how to combine scanning information and optimal sawing algorithm to maximize the lumber value and yield. In this project, a 3D log sawing optimization system was developed to perform 3D log generation, opening face determination, headrig log sawing simulation, flitch edging and trimming simulation, and lumber grading. During the production of lumber, the first cut determines the remaining cuts which must be either parallel or perpendicular to the first cut in the grade sawing method, so it will influence the lumber grade and yield. The opening face algorithm can help the sawmill operators to correctly select the first opening face, which is the most crucial part of receiving the highest yield lumber from the log; the algorithm is suitable for sweepy or not sweepy logs. Once the opening face determination has been made, the system will find the optimum sawing patterns by using either a heuristic or dynamic programming (DP) algorithm. The profile of each piece of cut from the log along with its defect information is forwarded to the edging and trimming optimization component where the piece is optimally edged and trimmed by using either the heuristic or DP algorithm. The information is then sent to the lumber grading procedures to determine the lumber grade. This process is repeated until all the possible cutting patterns are searched, resulting in the optimization of total lumber value. In addition, the system can also allow live and cant sawing methods and using multi-thicknesses during the process. The system can be used as a decision-making system for hardwood lumber production at real sawmills to improve value yield recovery in the process of conversion of hardwood logs into lumber products. The system can also be used a training tool for novice sawyers, they should then be trained well enough to provide a better service to the employer and therefore helps employer to maximize the profits. The results of this project will improve the sustainability and conservation of valuable hardwood forest resources in the US. In addition, the outcomes of the project also indirectly contributes to the green building movement by its inherent property of minimizing waste of valuable green products.
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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Progress 01/01/09 to 12/31/09
Outputs
OUTPUTS: A literature review has been performed concerning previous hardwood sawmill sawing and grading studies. This review encompasses many published studies and adds a background to the necessity of this study. Log shape data and external defect locations were obtained from the Virginia Tech / Forest Service scanner and the internal defect locations were derived from a model developed by Forest Service. All the data were entered into Access database. An algorithm to determine the best opening face on a hardwood log using log shape, surface defect data and log grades has been developed, which is suitable to grade sawing method. Log grading procedure has been obtained by computer algorithm which is based on grading rules developed by Forest Service. Another lumber grading algorithm which integrated with National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA) grading rules has been completed to grade the sawn lumber. The lumber grading program developed was based on a modified version of the lumber grading program developed by Hallock and Galiger (1971). The research has resulted in the implementation of a procedure for the localization and reconstruction of internal defects in hardwood logs from obtained scanning information. Based on lumber grades and obtained internal defects, optimal sawing algorithms including heuristics and dynamic programming were designed and implemented for log primary break down. At last, we have developed a software system with user-friendly interfaces to implement the algorithms in 3-D visual simulation environment. When a sawyer selects a log from the database, a 3-D visual log will be generated and displayed in the screen. Various sawing operations including live sawing and grade sawing can be simulated on the virtual 3-D reconstruction of the log. By clicking the "live sawing" or "grade sawing" button and choosing the sawing parameters, the log can be sawn from the best open face. The user can change the sawing parameters, such as lumber sizing, cant sizing and kerf width to reproduce lumber at the same log. The generated sawing patterns will be displayed in the 3-D environment. Users can view the lumber either from the small end or the large end of the log by rotating it. The detailed information about all the lumber including lumber dimension, surface measure area, volume, value, and grade will be displayed in the designated area of the screen. A preliminary log grade sawing result has been produced by using either heuristic or dynamic programming algorithm. Comparing a real small sawmill lumber production, the results indicated that a significant gain in lumber value can be achieved by using this optimization system. However, flitch edging and trimming optimization was not considered right now. Also the log shape used currently is truncated cone rather than real. Combining log grading sawing, flitch edging and trimming optimizations in one system, and using real shape log model simulate log grade sawing will be completed during project duration. The program is expected to be uploaded to a website and accessible to the general public for ease of use and convenience. PARTICIPANTS: A graduate student in the Division of Forestry and Natural Resources, WVU. TARGET AUDIENCES: Owners of small-scale sawmills, and researchers PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Not relevant to this project.
Impacts
Maximizing the profits gained from the conversion of hardwood logs into hardwood lumber is a primary concern for sawmill owners. Recently there has been an increase in the competition for hardwood logs in order to meet increasing demands for timber products. It is also critical to use timber resources efficiently because of the trends of increased log costs and limited availability. The development of optimal sawing system can provide the most efficient method of optimizing the grade and yield of hardwood lumber, which is a start to solving these problems. Once log data information about the shape of log, external defects, and internal log defects is obtained by log scanning techniques, a suitable sawing strategy combining the information is needed. Because it is difficult to analyze all the scanned information without the use of an algorithm to provide the optimal solution, the key to the sawyer is how to combine scanning information and optimal sawing algorithm to maximize the lumber value and yield. During the production of lumber, the first cut determines the remaining cuts which must be either parallel or perpendicular to the first cut in the grade sawing method, so it will influence the lumber grade and yield. The best open face algorithm developed can help the sawmill operators to correctly select the first opening face, which is the most crucial part of receiving the highest yield lumber from the log. At the same time, the heuristics and dynamic programming log grade sawing algorithms and automated lumber grading will improve value yield recovery in the process of conversion of hardwood logs into lumber products. The system can be used as a decision-making system for hardwood lumber production and training tool for novice sawyers. The operator should then be trained well enough to provide a better service to the employer and therefore helps employer to maximize the profits. The result of this project will improve the sustainability and conservation of valuable hardwood forest resources in the US. In addition, the outcomes of the project also indirectly contributes to the green building movement by its inherent property of minimizing waste of valuable green products through efficient sawing.
Publications
- Wang, J, W. Goff, and J. McNeel, 2009. A field assessment of central Appalachian hardwood log bucking and merchandising practices. Forest Products Journal. 59(1/2):43-49.
- Wang, J, W. Goff, L.E. Osborn, and G.W. Cook. 2009. Assessments of hardwood lumber edging, trimming, and grading practices of small sawmills in West Virginia. Forest Products Journal. 59(5):1-7.
- Lin, W., J. Wang, and E. Thomas. 2009. A 3D Optimal sawing system for small-scale and portable sawmills in Central Appalachia. 17th Central Hardwood Forest Conference. (Submitted in review).
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Progress 01/01/08 to 12/31/08
Outputs
OUTPUTS: A literature review has been performed concerning previous hardwood sawmill sawing and grading studies. This review encompasses many published studies and adds a background to the necessity of this study. Log shape data and external defect locations were obtained from the Virginia Tech / Forest Service scanner and the internal defect locations were derived from a model developed by Forest Service. All the data were entered into Access database. An algorithm to determine the best open face on a hardwood log using log shape and surface defect data has been developed, which is suitable to grade sawing method. Log grading has been obtained by computer algorithm which is based on grading rules developed by Forest Service. Another algorithm which integrated with NHLA grading rules is nearly complete to grade the sawn lumber. Meanwhile, we have developed a software system to implement the algorithms in 3-D visual simulation environment. When a sawyer selects a log from the database, a 3-D visual log will be generated and displayed in the screen. By clicking the "live sawing" button, the log can be sawn from the best open face. So far, only the live sawing has been simulated. The user can change the sawing factor, such as lumber sizing and kerf width to reproduce lumber at the same log. The generated sawing patterns will be displayed in the 3-D environment. Users can view the lumber either from the small end or the large end of the log by rotating it. The detailed information about all the lumber including lumber dimension, surface measure area, volume, value, and grade will be displayed in the designated area of the screen. A hardwood grade sawing algorithm is being developed considering that most of sawmills use grade sawing method to produce lumber to date. The program is expected to be uploaded to a website and accessible to the general public for ease of use and convenience. PARTICIPANTS: A graduate student in the Division of Forestry, WVU. TARGET AUDIENCES: Owners of small-scale sawmills, and researchers. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Not relevant to this project.
Impacts
Maximizing the profits gained from the conversion of hardwood logs into hardwood lumber is a primary concern for sawmill owners. Recently there has been an increase in the competition for hardwood logs in order to meet increasing demands for timber products. It is also critical to use timber resources efficiently because of the trends of increased log costs and limited availability. The development of optimal sawing system can provide the most efficient method of optimizing the grade and yield of hardwood lumber, which is a start to solving these problems. Once log data information about the shape of log, external defects, and internal log defects is obtained by log scanning techniques, a suitable sawing strategy combining the information is needed. Because it is difficult to analyze all the scanned information without the use of an algorithm to provide the optimal solution, the key to the sawyer is how to combine scanning information and optimal sawing algorithm to maximize the lumber value and yield. During the production of lumber, the first cut determines the remaining cuts which must be either parallel or perpendicular to the first cut in the grade sawing method, so it will influence the lumber grade and yield. The best open face algorithm developed can help the sawmill operators to correctly select the first opening face, which is the most crucial part of receiving the highest yield lumber from the log. At the same time, the heuristics log grade sawing algorithm can determine the greatest lumber value from a given log. The system can be used as a decision-making system for hardwood lumber production and training tool for novice sawyers. The operator should then be trained well enough to provide a better service to the employer and therefore helps employer to maximize the profits.
Publications
- Wang, J, W. Goff, and J. McNeel. 2008. A field assessment of central Appalachian hardwood log bucking and merchandising practices. Forest Products Journal. (Accepted in press).
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Progress 01/01/07 to 12/31/07
Outputs
A literature review has been performed concerning previous sawmill edging and grading studies. This review encompasses many published studies and adds a background to the necessity of this assessment. A complete dataset has been collected from six sawmills and data has been entered into Excel spreadsheets. Data collection includes two species from six sawmills for a total of 360 boards. Measurements were taken including width, length, defects, surface measure, and grade. Analysis of these data is nearly complete. The information will enable the researchers to gain a better understanding of the sawing practices being performed and possibilities for optimization of each log. Results have provided insight to the question of edging and if there is anything to be gained if the edger operator views both faces prior to edging. Results have shown that the sawmills are consistently over-edging and thus losing clear wood and money in the process. A visual program is being
developed to perform training modules for employees using the data collected and NHLA grading rules. The program will utilize width, length, and defect measurements collected in the field. The user will then be able to make edging and trimming decisions based on defects, mill requirements, and personal preferences. This will prove to be an asset when training new employees for specific positions. The program is expected to be placed on a website and accessible to the general public for ease of use and convenience.
Impacts
Sawmill owners have recently expressed concerns about their markets and profitability. Expressing solutions to increase their production of surface measure and higher grade lumber is a start to solving these problems. The results from this assessment will allow the sawmill operators to optimize their profits on each board and efficiently utilize each log that is run through their mill. The online training module should prove to be beneficial to the training of desirable employees. This training module will allow the employer to help educate his employee prior to performing the operation in the mill. The operator should then be trained well enough to provide a better service to the employer and therefore earn the wage of a highly skilled employee
Publications
- Goff, W.A. and J. Wang. 2007. Assessment of Lumber Edging, Trimming, and Grading Practices in Small Sawmills Across West Virginia. In proceedings of Forest Products Society 61st International Convention. Knoxville, TN June 10-13, 2007.
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Progress 01/01/06 to 12/31/06
Outputs
A literature review has been performed concerning previous sawmill edging and grading studies. This review encompasses many published studies and adds a background to the necessity of this assessment. A complete dataset has been collected from six sawmills and data is currently being entered into Excel spreadsheets. Data collection includes two species from six sawmills for a total of 360 boards. Measurements were taken including width, length, defects, surface measure, and grade. Analysis of these data will allow an understanding of maximizing profits and yields in small-scale sawmills. The information will enable the researchers to gain a better understanding of the sawing practices being performed and possibilities for optimization of each log. Results will also provide insight to the question of edging and if there is anything to be gained if the edger operator views both faces prior to edging. This information will allow the edger operator to make decisions
knowing which face would be the graded face and if value could be enhanced by using other options. A brief analysis has been completed based on grading and surface measure differences between the sawmills and our National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA) grader. A visual program is being developed to perform training modules for employees using the data collected and NHLA grading rules. The program will utilize width, length, and defect measurements collected in the field. The user will then be able to make edging and trimming decisions based on defects, mill requirements, and personal preferences. This will prove to be an asset when training new employees for specific positions. The program is expected to be placed on a website and accessible to the general public for ease of use and convenience.
Impacts
Sawmill owners have recently expressed concerns about their markets and profitability. Expressing solutions to increase their production of surface measure and higher grade lumber is a start to solving these problems. The results from this assessment will allow the sawmill operators to optimize their profits on each board and efficiently utilize each log that is run through their mill.
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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