Research Brief #24

TOPSAW: A Training and Optimization System for Sawing Hardwood Logs
Louisiana Forest Products Development Center
Louisiana State University
Baton Rouge, LA

Research Objectives

The purpose of this project is to develop a training and optimization system for sawing hardwood logs. In the short run, the goal is to develop a training system for sawyers to practice log sawing on the computer. Over the log run, the goal is to develop a sawing optimization system to determine the optimal sawing sequence for a saw log based on not only the external profile but also the knowledge of the type, size, and location of internal defects.

Synopsis of Results

A training system has been developed to allow sawyers to practice hardwood log sawing on a PC-based computer. The training system allows the sawyer to look at the four side views and the end view of the log before the log is cut on the computer. The sawyer can rotate the log and place the saw blade at the desired positions to make cuts. The computer program then identifies the defects on the cut faces, boxes the defects, then grade the cut faces. As such the training system allows the sawyer to explore different cutting  strategies repeatedly to examine the boards and value produced from each log.

Progress

The software is currently undergoing field testing.

Researchers

Sun Joseph Chang, Professor
Louisiana Forest Products Development Center
Baton Rouge, LA 70803-6202

Suresh Guddanti, Assistant Professor Research
School of Forestry, Wildlife, and Fisheries

Target Group

Hardwood Sawmill Industry

Methodology

Applied Research