Abstract: A device and method of orienting a log in a veneer lathe charger to produce optimum positioning of the log in a veneer lathe when the log is loaded into the lathe by the charger includes a plurality of ultrasonic transducers which are positioned circumferentially and longitudinally about the log periphery. The ultrasonic transducers sense the position of the log and the log is re-oriented, under control of a computer which receives the outputs from the transducers, prior to loading the log into the veneer lathe.

Abstract: A pair of sonic transducers are mounted above a peeler block on a veneer lathe, adjacent opposite ends of the block. Bursts of sonic energy are directed downward to strike the surface of the block such that sonic energy is reflected from the block surface to the transducers. The distance from the transducers to the axis of rotation of the lathe spindle upon which the block is mounted is known and, as a consequence, the radius of the peeler block may be determined in response to the ultrasonically measured distance from the transducers to the block surface. A series of radius measurements may be made as the block is rotated on the lathe spindle. Additionally, measurements may be made when a log is first loaded onto the lathe, after the log is rounded up, and after peeling of the block is completed.