Abstract: A scanning system which scans for defects in decorative panels by generating images of the panels. A comparative program, i.e., recipes of samples of decorative panels having defect types and degrees, enables the system to make comparisons of defects and through said comparisons to grade the defects whereby the panels are graded as, e.g., acceptable, re-work, shop or reject. The program is modified for different decorative wood species and a controller dictates the comparative program to be applied for different customer orders of decorative wood panels.

Abstract: A system for producing blanks for finish plywood which includes development of a recipe of selected veneer sheets, automatically and rapidly, e.g., via linear actuator, arranging the selected veneer sheets for sequential stacking and bonding of the sheets to produce a rough blank having a determined thickness that enables minimal and sufficient abrasive planing.