Abstract: A fastener and associated lock washer having an integral anti-rotation mechanism. The head of the fastener includes a plurality of saw teeth—arranged in a radial array. A lock washer is configured to interact with the head of the fastener. The lock washer includes one or more spring tabs positioned to bear against the radial array of saw teeth. As the fastener is rotated in a first direction, the saw teeth depress and pass over the spring tab(s). However, if the user attempts to rotate the fastener in the opposite direction, the spring tab snaps up into the saw teeth and arrests the motion—in the manner of a ratchet and pawl mechanism. The invention preferably includes a second means for selectively defeating the anti-rotation mechanism.

Abstract: A fastener and associated lock washer having an integral anti-rotation mechanism. The head of the fastener includes a plurality of saw teeth—arranged in a radial array. A lock washer is configured to interact with the head of the fastener. The lock washer includes one or more spring tabs positioned to bear against the radial array of saw teeth. As the fastener is rotated in a first direction, the saw teeth depress and pass over the spring tab(s). However, if the user attempts to rotate the fastener in the opposite direction, the spring tab snaps up into the saw teeth and arrests the motion—in the manner of a ratchet and pawl mechanism. The invention preferably includes a second means for selectively defeating the anti-rotation mechanism.

Abstract: A fastener and associated lock washer having an integral anti-rotation mechanism. The head of the fastener includes a plurality of saw teeth—arranged in a radial array. A lock washer is configured to interact with the head of the fastener. The lock washer includes one or more spring tabs positioned to bear against the radial array of saw teeth. As the fastener is rotated in a first direction, the saw teeth depress and pass over the spring tab(s). However, if the user attempts to rotate the fastener in the opposite direction, the spring tab snaps up into the saw teeth and arrests the motion—in the manner of a ratchet and pawl mechanism. The invention preferably includes a second means for selectively defeating the anti-rotation mechanism.

Abstract: Techniques for calibrating a laser scanner using a beam and camera which are swept in synchronization across a target object. A special calibration machine is disclosed. This machine mounts a completed scanner assembly and moves a target to collect camera output data from the scanner. The machine includes position sensing means which accurately determine the position of the target. The target position is then correlated to the camera output data for a variety of points. Curve-fitting techniques are then employed to create a mathematical function which converts the a given camera output datum to a distance from the scanner. The calibration machine is also used to create a table of correction factors which are used for different scanner mirror positions. The curve-fitting mathematical function, along with the table of error corrections, are then embedded in the software which converts the raw camera output data to computed points in three-dimensional space.

Abstract: A scanning device for measuring the distance between the scanning device and a plurality of surface points on a target object. The scanning device sweeps a laser beam and a line scan camera in synchronization up and down the surface of the target object. The line scan camera monitors the impact point of the laser beam upon the target object within its field of view. By knowing the position of the impact point within the camera's field of view, trigonometric principles can be applied to accurately calculate the distance to the impact point.

Abstract: A method for creating a full surface model of a log using optical scanners mounted on an existing infeed assembly. The method recognizes that a log is only stable for a portion of its travel along the infeed assembly, meaning that only portions of the log may be accurately scanned for both cross-sectional and positional data. The balance of the log can only be scanned for cross-sectional data. The method uses the regions of the log for which both cross-sectional and positional data are known to create a theoretical centerline for the entire log. The cross-sections for the regions without positional data are then placed along the theoretical centerline and all the cross sections are blended together to create a full surface model. The full surface model is then used to determine the optimum configuration of dimensioned lumber which may be sawn from the log.