HARDWOOD LOG BREAKDOWN DECISION AUTOMATION

This paper examines the use of internal log defect information, such as can be obtained from noninvasive defect detection imaging, e.g., computed tomography, magnetic resonance, etc., in the automation of log breakdown decisions for hardwood logs. A method was developed to extract the information and convert it into a form that can directly drive the saw equipment controllers to perform the log breakdown. This method illustrates the feasibility of hardwood log breakdown decision automation.