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High-resolution laser surface scanning of hardwood logs provides detailed imagery from which log surface defects can be located, classified, and measured. These data can be used to generate internal defect maps of logs and predict quality and value of lumber and other products. However, a system based entirely on log surface inspection may incorrectly predict internal quality. Some defects give the appearance of being solid or sound and effectively hide an unsound or rotten area, thereby reducing the accuracy of predicted internal product quality and value. On the other hand, acoustic wave propagation methods are very accurate at determining the soundness of a log but provide no data about defect locations. Combining the two approaches could yield a system that can accurately determine exterior defects and interior soundness.
| - FPL's Mission and Strategic Plan - |
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FPL's mission is to identify and conduct innovative wood and fiber utilization research that contributes to conservation and productivity of the forest resource, thereby sustaining forests, the economy, and quality of life. ... ..more » |
| - FPL Research Emphasis Areas - |
Advanced Composites
As an integral part of the FPL mission, we improve the long-term sustainability of our Nation's forests by creating valuable composite products from biobased materials ... ..more » 
Advanced Structures
The FPL has been in the forefront of wood-frame housing research since 1910 and has long been recognized as a world leader in such housing-related areas as engineered wood ... ..more » 
Forest Biorefinery
We all know the compelling reasons that the United States needs to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels. Historically, the greatest increases in energy demand have been for transportation fuels ... ..more » 
Nanotechnology
A leader in wood products research for over a century, the FPL is positioning itself to become the lead Federal research facility for the application of nanotechnology in forest products ... more » 
Woody Biomass Utilization
Forests in the United States contain a substantial amount of small-diameter, overstocked, and underutilized material.FPL research projects are exploring the potential of the small-diameter ... ..more » |