Abstract: A system that rotatively orients and skew positions a log for lumber processing. A log is placed in centering V's and rough centered. Rotatable scan spindles rotate the log while scanners obtain measurements at spaced locations along the log length and at selected rotative positions. Each angular position is analyzed for an optimum cutting pattern and the spindles are rotated to rotate the log into the most desirable angular position. The log is skew adjusted by the scan spindles and/or knee clamps in a carriage and conveyed to a saw array. A computer controls the cutting action to achieve the selected cutting pattern.

Abstract: A lumber sorting apparatus wherein a bin collects graded lumber. Flexible straps across the bottom are elongated to expand the lumber holding capacity. One end of the strap has a releasable latch mechanism and latching of the straps (after dumping the lumber) is provided by a rigid pivotal arm that receives the latch mechanism in a rewinding operation and pivots the latch member into place for relatching. The latch mechanism consists of a spool that fits between sleeve portions through which a pin is controllably inserted and withdrawn by a manually operated air cylinder.

Abstract: A lumber sorting apparatus wherein a bin collects graded lumber. Flexible straps across the bottom are extended to expand the lumber holding capacity. One end of the strap has a releasable latch mechanism and latching of the strap (after dumping the lumber) is provided by a rigid pivotal arm that receives the latch mechanism in the rewinding operation and pivots the latch mechanism into place for relatching. The arm member includes a length portion that spans the open bottom. Guide pins in the arm member on either side of the length portion define a straight reach across said length portion which is offset downwardly from the straps whereby lumber pieces dropped into the bin are prevented from impacting the rigid arm member.

Abstract: The board turner apparatus and method is capable of turning a board over several times for repeated inspection of both sides of such board for more accurate grading of such board before allowing the board to be conveyed forward past a retractable stop. The retractable stop means when extended above the conveyor engages the leading edge of the board at a fixed stop position along a conveyor means and keeps the board from advancing along the conveyor means until such stop means is retracted. The board inverter means includes a plurality of curved turner arms which pivot about the axis of a common support shaft between a lowered position below the upper surface of the conveyor and a raised position above such upper conveyor surface.

Abstract: Lumber within a kiln is subjected to a multi-step process including initial dehumidification drying to a moisture content of approximately 12 to 20 percent followed by drying at a substantially higher temperature without dehumidification. The higher temperature drying step is continued until a moisture content of approximately 6 percent is reached, after which high humidity conditions are preferably introduced into the kiln for equalization and/or conditioning of the lumber.

Abstract: A tube for an impinging jet air drier for wood veneer has a circular cross-section throughout 270 degrees of its circumference, the remaining 90 degrees comprising two planar portions, one disposed perpendicularly to the direction of travel of a sheet of material through the drier, the other generally facing the sheet of material but forming an obtuse angle with the first portion at a line of juncture disposed in the downstream direction of sheet travel. A plurality of round holes are punched in the planar portion facing the sheet of material. The holes are disposed in rows parallel to the longitudinal axis of the tube. The shape of the tube serves as a guide for the sheet material while discharging air thereacross. The configuration permits the upper tube in each pair to be disposed about 5/8 inch above the plane of travel of the sheet material and the lower tube to be disposed about 3/8 inch therebelow.