October 2001 Volume 7, Number 10
October 2001 Volume 7, Number 10
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"We had one of our best graders analyze some boards, then calculated the value we would get from them," Mike explained. "Then we had the optimizer run solutions on the same boards. What we see is that on some boards there is no difference between what the grader sees and what the optimizer decides is the best solution. But quite often, because the equipment can do the complex calculations almost instantly, we see a solution that gives us more value."
The optimizer's solution for one sample board increased the value 78 cents. With another board it was only in the range of 20 cents. "That might not seem like much," Mike noted, "but when you multiply that out over the number of boards we run in a year, the increased value is substantial."
 Inovec StereoScan system scans the shape of the log surface. Inovec specializes in optimization technology for appearance wood manufacturing. |
Inovec introduced the StereoScan 3D Log Scanning System 18 months ago. Since then it has delivered over 40 systems, including one that was installed last November at Gilkey Lumber Co. Production increased over 5% when sawing the same size logs, Gilkey mill manager Danny Ingle reported. "The higher speed turned out to be very important to us," he said. "We find that even when sawing smaller diameter logs, we have been able to continue to meet our production goals. That has really made an important difference for us this year."
Gilkey Lumber also increased yield due to better control over the opening face. "We're still doing log tests, but our initial results show over 3% increase in yield on red oak," said Danny. Gilky Lumber built a clear plastic template to test opening face accuracy. "We performed opening face accuracy tests, and it was hard to find one that was not right on the mark," Danny added.
Another customer, RAM Forest Products of Shinglehouse, Penn., put in an Inovec StereoScan system in December 2000. A few months later, it ordered a second unit for the other carriage. "When customers with multiple carriages install one StereoScan 3D Scanning system, then turn right around and order more systems, that really tells the story," says Paul Knapp, Inovec's national sales manager.
John Rees, vice president of RAM Forest Products, said the Inovec StereoScan system allows his company to apply different opening face strategies based on log grade and shape. "The accuracy of the opening face reduces the average slab size going into the conveyor," he added. "You can see the difference. Just look at the slab conveyor under the head rig. There's almost nothing in it!"
Speed was important to RAM, too. The first carriage averaged about 600 logs per shift prior to the installation of the new setworks and scanner. Shortly after the new system was installed, RAM achieved a record 825 logs per shift. It wasn't long before RAM ordered the second system.
the story continues...
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