A log handling and
cutting system which cuts logs into lengths, and allows for maximum use of
fiber. The
system includes equipment for singulating the logs, optimally removing the
bark from the logs, scanning the true log image,
cutting the logs to length, and sorting the
cut logs arranged in a sequence of coupled operations. The logs are singulated using a dual quadrant singulation
system to provide maximum singulation reliability, thereby allowing a single operator to attend to this process. Once singulated, the logs are fed automatically into a debarker where the
diameter and volume are scanned and debarker-operating parameters are set for optimum
bark removal. The log is then scanned, tree length, using a unique scanning system, which determines the true image of the log. This enables the determination by computer of the optimum bucking solution of the log as well as a proper sorting of the optimum random lengths. The saws are adjusted in response to the computer solution and the log is positioned by a positioner according to a computer generated reference datum. This results in the log being positioned for
cutting to the optimum random lengths. A command
signal is sent from the computer to the log sorting system, which tracks the position of the random lengths and allows them to be sorted to the appropriate sort storage bin.