Production process for the manufacture of glued laminated timber

Abstract

The present invention relates to a process for dividing individual input source logs into discrete longitudinal lengths for subsequent processing. The process includes receiving an individual input source log and dividing the input source log into one or more production log portions of predetermined lengths, wherein at least some of the production log portions resulting from the dividing are of substantially equal or substantially constant or uniform longitudinal lengths, and the substantially equal or substantially constant or uniform longitudinal length production log portions are sourced as a supply stream of log material for a subsequent processing step. The process provides for the processing of the logs and subsequent assembly of a composite of sticks derived from the processed logs into a final product.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to extracting value from tree trunk material (i.e., from the length of the tree trunk) (without reducing it to individual fibrous forms) to provide useful resultant products that represent an increase in building material value, particularly when from low value tree trunk material and / or low value logs, or alternatively for greater utilization of the log material and conversion into resultant products. [Background technology]

[0002] Traditionally, dimension lumber is produced for two main purposes: first, as structural lumber, second, as exterior lumber, and third, as exterior cladding.

[0003] Structural lumber is produced and graded for strength and stiffness properties. The so-called "earlywood" (heartwood) has lower fundamental properties than the so-called "latewood," and including "earlywood" within a piece of dimension lumber can result in a reduced strength grading. Defects (knots, resin pockets, bark inclusions, rot, insect damage, splits, etc.) also result in a reduced grading, but in pine, knots have the greatest impact. These defects are distributed throughout the length of the piece of lumber, resulting in a reduced grading based on the rule that "a piece of wood is only as strong as its weakest link."

[0004] Exterior lumber is produced and graded based on surface appearance. Appearance grades can range from "clear" for furniture-type end uses to "merchantable" for exterior finishes. An important feature is the absence of defects that specifically affect the surface finish. Intertwined knots do not result in a reduction in grade, and the unfinished surface can be an attractive feature.

[0005] For specific raw materials (low grades) and harvesting methods, a wide range of properties can be produced. The total product is tested and graded, or inspected and graded after the first sawing. Even within a grade, there is a wide range of properties.

[0006] This range of properties occurs when the log is split into sections (typically 100 x 50 mm). It has been found that there is a greater spread of properties when the log is split into smaller sections (e.g. 50 x 7 mm).

[0007] In conventional dimension lumber, the range of production is influenced to a certain extent by the sawing pattern selected, but to a greater extent by the choice of raw material (age of the tree, position within the tree, silver culture regime).

[0008] Nevertheless, the efficiency of use can be further improved, particularly when some raw materials are single or multiple grade logs from a single forest or multiple forests, while still providing a resulting engineered wood product that is acceptable to customer demands.

[0009] Where reference is made herein to external sources, including patent specifications and other literature, this is generally for the purpose of providing a context for discussing features of the present invention, and unless otherwise expressly stated, the reference to such sources should not be construed as an admission that such sources are prior art or form part of the common general knowledge in the art in any jurisdiction. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0010] An object or alternative object of the present invention is to solve the problem of waste reduction during the production of dimension lumber, and in the process, preferably improve the use or utilization of value-enhancing raw materials.

[0011] It is also an object or alternative object of the present invention to provide methods, practices and procedures for manufacturing aggregated hand-made wood products and related products that rely on performance advantages over merely random assembly.

[0012] It is also an object or alternative object of the present invention to provide an overall process that allows for more suitable use of logs or parts of tree trunks (and in particular of softwoods such as Radiata pine, loblolly pine, Douglas fir, spruce, etc.) that would otherwise only be suitable for offcuts or non-structural timber.

[0013] An object or alternative object of the present invention is to convert low quality wood into high quality products. [Means for solving the problem]

[0014] In a first aspect, there is provided a process for dividing a source log into discrete longitudinal lengths for subsequent processing, the process comprising dividing the source log into a plurality of substantially uniform or substantially constant predetermined length log portions, the plurality of substantially uniform or substantially constant predetermined length log portions being provided for a subsequent processing step.

[0015] In a second aspect, there is provided a process for dividing a source log into discrete longitudinal lengths for subsequent processing, the process comprising simultaneously dividing the source log into a plurality of substantially uniform or substantially constant predetermined length log portions, the plurality of substantially uniform or substantially constant predetermined length log portions being provided for a subsequent processing step.

[0016] In a third aspect, there is provided a process for dividing individual input source logs into separate longitudinal lengths for subsequent processing, said process comprising: receiving individual input source logs; Optionally, longitudinally positioning or advancing the individual input source logs to a reference position such as on a cutting deck or support platform for a subsequent log splitting operation (optionally presenting the input source logs to the cutting deck or support platform for subsequent splitting in a single lift or single lift operation); Optionally, restraining the individual input source logs on a cutting deck or support platform either longitudinally (such as along the log length or log end) or rotationally or angularly (such as restraining the log from rotating axially) or both for restraint during subsequent log splitting operations; Dividing an input source log into one or more production log portions of predetermined lengths, wherein at least some of the production log portions resulting from said dividing are of substantially equal or substantially constant or uniform longitudinal lengths, and said substantially equal or substantially constant or uniform longitudinal length production log portions are sourced as a supply stream of log material for a subsequent processing step. Includes.

[0017] In relation to one or more of the first, second or third aspects, in some embodiments, one or more of the log portions of predetermined length provided for a subsequent processing step may be accumulated (optionally in temporary accumulation or temporary storage) for provision to the subsequent processing step. Advantageously, the accumulation or storage of the log portions of predetermined length may be utilized or selected for a downstream subsequent processing step in the event of a possible interruption of the upstream processing step. Alternatively, the accumulation or storage may be utilized to facilitate the continuation of an upstream processing step in the event of a possible interruption of the downstream processing step.

[0018] In a fourth aspect, there is provided a process for splitting a production log portion, procured as a supply stream of log material for subsequent processing, into a plurality of streams of sticks, the process comprising: end mounting the production log section (i.e., each end / both ends of the production log section are end mounted); selectively cutting the production log section with two or more rotary saw blades operable at substantially 90 degrees relative to one another to thereby cut to release individual sticks from the mounted production log section, the two or more saw blades being longitudinally movable relative to the longitudinal length of the mounted production log section via a carriage; axially rotating the production log section in response to a command, either in conjunction with rotating the production log section or in intervals between rotating cuts of the production log section; removing (optionally automatically or in an automated manner) each cutting stick from the mounted production log section by a vacuum or suction system (optionally a robotic vacuum or suction system) upon release from the production log section; wherein the production log section is rotated axially (optionally on command) to present a surface of the production log section to the two or more rotary saw blades to facilitate passage of each of the two or more rotary saws along the longitudinal length of the production log section to produce one or more individual sticks, which are provided as a stream of sticks for subsequent processing.

[0019] In a fifth aspect, there is provided an apparatus for splitting a production log portion, procured as a supply stream of log material for subsequent processing, into a plurality of streams of sticks, the apparatus comprising: a pair of substantially opposed end mounts, each mount configured to be engageable with a respective longitudinal end of the production log portion; a drive configured to rotate the end mount; carriages having rotary saw blades which operate at 90 degrees to each other, thereby making a cut to release the sticks from the mounted production log section when in use in each carriage orientation; a vacuum or suction system (optionally a robotic vacuum or suction system) that vacuums or suctions each stick from the mounted production log section as and / or when it is cut free; and removing each cutting stick from the mounted production log section (optionally automatically or in an automated manner) by a vacuum or suction system (optionally a robotic vacuum or suction system) upon release from the production log section.

[0020] In relation to one or more of the fourth or fifth aspects, in some embodiments, one or more of the sticks of the stream of sticks may be accumulated (optionally temporary accumulation or temporary storage) for provision to a subsequent processing step. Advantageously, the accumulation or storage of the sticks may be utilized or selected for a downstream subsequent processing step when there may be an interruption in the upstream processing step. Alternatively, the accumulation or storage may be utilized to facilitate the continuation of an upstream processing step when there may be an interruption in the downstream processing step.

[0021] Preferably, the apparatus further includes a logic program system that commands the presentation of at least one mounted production log section in use with each carriage pass, thereby optimizing the yield of higher strength sticks within the range of strength sticks from each production log section.

[0022] Preferably, the sticks are not removed from the log by the carriage.

[0023] Preferably, the sticks are removed from the production log section upon release from the production log section by collection from a vacuum or suction system, optionally a robotic vacuum or suction system.

[0024] In a sixth aspect, there is also provided a production line for manufacturing laminated timber beams, the beams being of profiled strength grade laminas each cut to length from a set of finger-jointed boards of a suitable strength grade, the use of the apparatus comprising: and a mount that, on command, provides sticks by rotating the barked logs; carriages having rotary saw blades which operate at 90 degrees to each other so that when in use in each carriage orientation, the saw blades cut to release the sticks from the mounted production log section, so that the sticks are not dragged from the log by the carriage; a robotic system that suction-removes each stick from the mounted log as and / or when it is cut free; a logic program system that commands the presentation of at least one mounted log in use per carriage pass, thereby optimizing the yield of higher strength sticks within the range of strength sticks from each log; It includes or contains.

[0025] Preferably, any remaining log lengths that are not the predetermined length are discarded or not utilized in subsequent processing steps of the process, or any log lengths remaining from the splitting that do not achieve the predetermined length are discarded from the process.

[0026] Preferably, said longitudinal lengths of said substantially equal or substantially constant or uniform length production log portions are predetermined longitudinal lengths.

[0027] Preferably, said log portions of substantially equal or substantially constant or uniform longitudinal length are about 1 meter.

[0028] Preferably, the predetermined longitudinal length is about 1 meter.

[0029] Preferably, the log portions of substantially equal or substantially constant or uniform longitudinal length are less than about 10 meters, or less than about 6 meters, or less than about 5 meters, or less than about 4 meters, or less than about 3 meters, or less than about 2.4 meters, or less than about 2 meters, or less than about 1.5 meters, or less than about 0.5 meters.

[0030] Preferably, any remaining log lengths that are not the predetermined length are discarded or not utilized in subsequent processing steps of the process, or any log lengths remaining from the splitting that do not achieve the predetermined length are discarded from the process.

[0031] Preferably, the production log portion is the production log portions are of a longitudinal length substantially different from the predetermined longitudinal length, or The production log portions are of substantially unequal or substantially unequal or uniform longitudinal lengths relative to the production log portions of substantially equal or substantially uniform or uniform longitudinal lengths. In either case, the material will be destroyed from being offered as supply for further processing.

[0032] Preferably, each end of a production log portion of substantially equal or substantially constant or uniform longitudinal length that is sourced as a supply stream of log material for subsequent processing comprises substantially parallel ends (a single log portion having a pair of opposing ends, said ends formed from the splitting operation of the input source log).

[0033] Preferably, at least two or at least three (or more) log cutters may be provided to act on the input source log in order to divide it into said (optionally multiple) production log portions.

[0034] Preferably, the log cutter may be one of a chainsaw, a blade saw, and a band saw.

[0035] Preferably, each individual production log portion procured as part of a supply stream of log material for subsequent processing is individually subjected to a further splitting operation to produce a plurality of cut sticks of predetermined dimensions from said production log portion, said plurality of cut sticks being provided as a production stream of sticks.

[0036] Preferably, each individual production log portion procured as part of a supply stream of log material for subsequent processing is individually evaluated to identify further splitting operations to substantially maximize the available quantity of sticks of substantially equal or substantially constant or uniform size or cross-sectional profile as a production stream of sticks from said individual production log portion.

[0037] Preferably, the further division operation comprises: - maximizing the amount of sticks of substantially equal or substantially constant or uniform size or cross-sectional profile produced from the available volume of log material; - Minimizing waste or volume of log material that cannot be used to produce sticks of substantially equal or substantially constant or uniform dimensions or cross-sectional profile; - maximizing the quantity of sticks of substantially equal or substantially constant or uniform size or cross-sectional profile from a particular portion of said log section that are likely to be of substantially similar performance or property requirements; The stick production stream may be controlled (or varied or adjusted) to provide a production stream of said sticks sufficient for one or more of:

[0038] Preferably, each individual production log portion is subsequently divided into a plurality of substantially similarly or identically sized sticks or a series of streams of sticks, each such stream being a stream of identical or substantially similarly sized sticks.

[0039] Preferably, each individual production log portion is sequentially divided into a plurality of sticks or a series of streams of sticks of substantially equal or substantially constant or uniform size or cross-sectional profile, each such stream being a stream of sticks of the same or substantially similar size or cross-sectional profile.

[0040] Preferably, each individual production log portion is subjected to a sequential splitting operation to provide a resulting product stream of sticks that are of substantially equal or substantially constant or uniform longitudinal length to the individual log portions procured as part of the supply stream of log material for subsequent processing, and at least a portion of the product stream of sticks resulting from the sequential splitting operations that are of substantially equal or substantially constant or uniform longitudinal length are of substantially uniform dimensions with respect to the cross-sectional profile (width, thickness, etc.) of each resulting product stick as a stream of sticks.

[0041] Preferably, the production stream of sticks produced from successive splitting operations is subjected to evaluation or profiling with respect to one or more performance or property requirements to provide a relative grading of each produced stick.

[0042] In relation to the sixth aspect, in some embodiments, one or more of the sticks may be accumulated (optionally in temporary accumulation or temporary storage) for provision to a subsequent processing step. Advantageously, the accumulation or storage of the sticks is utilized or selected for a downstream subsequent processing step when there may be an interruption in the upstream processing step. Alternatively, the accumulation or storage may be utilized to facilitate the continuation of an upstream processing step when there may be an interruption in the downstream processing step.

[0043] In a further embodiment, in relation to the sixth aspect, in some embodiments, one or more of the sticks that are subsequently graded may be accumulated (optionally in temporary accumulation or temporary storage) for presentation to a subsequent processing step, or may be accumulated or stored together with similarly graded sticks. Advantageously, the accumulation or storage of graded sticks is utilized or selected for a downstream subsequent processing step when there may be an interruption in the upstream processing step. Alternatively, the accumulation or storage may be utilized to facilitate the continuation of an upstream processing step when there may be an interruption in the downstream processing step.

[0044] In a seventh aspect, a product stream of sticks obtained from a log source, said sticks being of substantially equal or substantially constant or uniform longitudinal length and of substantially uniform dimensions with respect to cross-sectional profile (such as width and thickness), is subjected to a moisture removal step to substantially reduce the moisture content of each stick in said stream of sticks.

[0045] Preferably, the moisture removal step comprises diverting, directing or conveying the stream of sticks as an input stream of sticks to a dryer and holding the sticks in the dryer for a predetermined period of time sufficient to remove or reduce the moisture content of the sticks to a notional moisture content value.

[0046] Preferably, an output stream of sticks having a reduced moisture content relative to an input stream of sticks is received from said dryer.

[0047] Preferably, the output stream of sticks is at least partially conditioned or reconditioned from the minimum moisture level achieved in the dryer by partial uptake of moisture originating from the input or incoming stream of sticks.

[0048] Preferably, the stick production stream is dehydrated in a drying operation.

[0049] Preferably, the product stream of sticks is directed (eg by conveying) to a dryer or a drying operation or conditioning routine for the product stream of sticks.

[0050] Preferably, the stick production stream has the moisture removed or reduced to a level of about 12% or less by weight (based on the weight of the dry stick).

[0051] Preferably, the drying operation is a countercurrent dryer.

[0052] Preferably, a plurality of sticks from said production stream of sticks are aggregated in an arrangement on a rack.

[0053] Preferably, a plurality of said racks are provided in a stacked assembly of a plurality of rack layers as a pallet.

[0054] Preferably, the pallets are passed through a drying operation and a dry air or gas flow stream is directed as a flow path passing from the pallets entering a dryer towards the pallets exiting the dryer.

[0055] Preferably, the air or gas flow directs moisture removed from the advancing sticks of the pallet and directs at least a portion of the moisture towards the sticks of the pallet exiting the dryer.

[0056] Preferably, moisture from sticks going into a dryer is directed towards sticks exiting said dryer as a conditioning or reconditioning step for said exiting sticks.

[0057] Preferably, the moisture removed from the stick or the resulting moisture content of the dried stick is sufficient to reduce downstream energy requirements for thermal processing or curing of adhesives that may be utilized in the resulting joint (as an end-jointed joint such as a finger joint or as a face-to-face joint such as an assembly). For example, adhesive cure temperatures may be about 100° C. or less depending on the adhesive stock used.

[0058] Preferably, said stream of sticks is a stream of sticks sourced from any one or more of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth aspects described above.

[0059] Preferably, the process for drying the stick further comprises or is defined by PCT / NZ Patent Application Publication No. 2010 / 000228, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0060] In a further embodiment, in relation to the seventh aspect, in some embodiments one or more of the sticks with substantially reduced moisture content may be accumulated (optionally temporary accumulation or temporary storage) for provision to a subsequent processing step. Advantageously, the accumulation or storage of sticks with substantially reduced moisture content is utilized or selected for a downstream subsequent processing step when there may be an interruption in the upstream processing step. Alternatively, the accumulation or storage may be utilized to facilitate the continuation of an upstream processing step when there may be an interruption in the downstream processing step.

[0061] In an eighth aspect, the process comprises a production stream of sticks provided from any one of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth aspects or from the seventh aspect described above, which are directed (e.g. by transport) to be subjected to a structural testing or structural scrutiny routine.

[0062] In a further embodiment, in relation to the eighth aspect, in some embodiments one or more of the sticks may be accumulated (optionally temporary accumulation or temporary storage), stored or accumulated for provision to a subsequent processing step. Advantageously, the accumulation or storage of sticks is utilized or selected for a downstream subsequent processing step when there may be an interruption in the upstream processing step. Alternatively, the accumulation or storage may be utilized to facilitate the continuation of an upstream processing step when there may be an interruption in the downstream processing step.

[0063] In a ninth aspect, there is provided a process for a structural testing or probing routine of a stream of sticks, the process comprising: - removal of sticks from said stream of sticks if they are defective in terms of a measured, identified or observed predetermined structural performance or characteristic (optionally this may include a measured, identified or observed defect in visual appearance), - deflection test of each (optionally dried) stick of said stream of sticks for conformity of the grading of said sticks with respect to a stockpile of plates; - bending test (i.e. longitudinal deflection) of each (optionally dried) stick of said stream of sticks for minimum bending capacity or property; - End load testing for minimum end load capacity or load characteristics (i.e. longitudinal compression); - Stick strength test for minimum strength capacity or characteristic Contains one or more of the following:

[0064] Preferably, the structural testing or probing routine comprises: - removal of sticks from said stream of sticks if they are defective with respect to a predetermined structural performance or characteristic that has been measured, identified or observed; - deflection test of each (optionally dried) stick of said stream of sticks for conformity of the grading of said sticks with respect to a stockpile of plates; - bending test (i.e. longitudinal deflection) of each (optionally dried) stick of said stream of sticks for minimum bending capacity or property; - End load testing for minimum end load capacity or load characteristics (i.e. longitudinal compression); - Stick strength test for minimum strength capacity or characteristic Contains one or more of the following:

[0065] Preferably, each stick that passes the structural test or structural review routine is directed (eg, by transport) for a subsequent processing step.

[0066] Preferably, each stick that passes the structural test or structural scrutiny routine is directed (e.g., by transport), graded or characterized with respect to the test or measurement results of the structural test or structural scrutiny routine, and directed (e.g., by transport) for subsequent processing.

[0067] Preferably, each stick that does not pass the structural test or structural review routine is discarded or removed from the process.

[0068] In a further embodiment, in relation to the ninth aspect, in some embodiments, one or more of the sticks that pass the structural test or structural review routine may be accumulated (optionally temporary accumulation or temporary storage), stored, or accumulated for provision to a subsequent processing step. Advantageously, the accumulation or storage of sticks is utilized or selected for a downstream subsequent processing step when there may be an interruption in the upstream processing step. Alternatively, the accumulation or storage may be utilized to facilitate the continuation of an upstream processing step when there may be an interruption in the downstream processing step.

[0069] In a tenth aspect, there is provided a process comprising receiving a production stream of sticks for subsequent processing from the eighth or ninth aspect described above.

[0070] In a further embodiment, in relation to the tenth aspect, in some embodiments one or more of the sticks from the stream of sticks may be accumulated (optionally temporary accumulation or temporary storage), stored or accumulated for provision to a subsequent processing step. Advantageously, the accumulation or storage of sticks is utilized or selected for a downstream subsequent processing step when there may be an interruption in the upstream processing step. Alternatively, the accumulation or storage may be utilized to facilitate the continuation of an upstream processing step when there may be an interruption in the downstream processing step. In an eleventh aspect, there is provided a process for the accumulation of sticks, wherein a received stream of specifically pre-graded, or pre-profiled, or pre-characterized sticks, individual sticks of the stream of sticks are diverted to a storage or holding bay or other facility to collect a plurality of sticks of substantially similar profile or grade, or sticks of a profile or grade within a particular predetermined range of performance or property requirements, to facilitate the accumulation of such sticks for subsequent delivery to said process, or for procuring from one or more of said storage or holding bays one or more sticks of the same or different profile or grade for use in subsequent processing.

[0071] Preferably, a predetermined selection of a plurality of identically or differently graded, or pre-graded, or pre-profiled, or pre-characterized sticks is created or made from a store or collection of sticks, and said selection of sticks is directed (e.g., by conveying) for a subsequent processing step.

[0072] Preferably, the graded or characterized sticks are differentially separated and differentially pooled or stored with substantially similarly graded or characterized sticks for subsequent processing steps.

[0073] Preferably, said accumulator is capable of receiving a stream of specifically pre-graded or pre-profiled sticks, and individual sticks in the stream of sticks are diverted to a storage or holding bay or other facility for collecting multiple sticks of substantially similar profile or grade or sticks of profile or grade within a particular predetermined range of performance or property requirements to facilitate the accumulation of such sticks for subsequent delivery to a process or for procuring from one or more of said storage or holding bays one or more sticks of the same or different profile or grade for use in subsequent processing.

[0074] Preferably, a predetermined selection of a plurality of identically or differently graded, or pre-graded, or pre-profiled, or pre-characterized sticks is created or made from a store or collection of sticks, and said selection of sticks is directed (e.g., by conveying) for a subsequent processing step.

[0075] Preferably, the predetermined selection is a predefined quantity of sticks from an identically graded or pre-graded or pre-profiled or pre-characterized stock or accumulation, provided as a group of sticks for a subsequent processing step.

[0076] Preferably, said subsequent processing step is applied to groups of sticks, said groups of sticks being conveyed sequentially (eg conveyed and processed in a linear fashion).

[0077] Preferably, said subsequent processing step comprises an end-to-end stick joining operation.

[0078] Preferably, the end-to-end stick joining operation is a finger joining step for finger joining the tail of the leading stick and the head of the trailing stick.

[0079] Preferably, in a group of sticks, the first leading stick has only its tail fingered to the trailing stick, the last trailing stick has only its head fingered to the immediately preceding leading stick, and each stick in between is fingered to each of the immediately preceding leading stick and the immediately following trailing stick.

[0080] Preferably, the finger joints may include adhesive pre-applied to each end of the finger joint cut of each stick of the group.

[0081] Preferably, the adhesive may be any suitable adhesive for joining or fastening or adhering wood surfaces together or for forming an adhesive joint.

[0082] Preferably, when joined end to end, the group of sticks forms a composite stick.

[0083] In a twelfth aspect, there is provided a process for finger joining a plurality of sticks to one another end-to-end, wherein selected ones of the sticks are oriented so that fingers are created at the end of each stick or at each end of each said stick.

[0084] Preferably, at least some of the sticks to be fingered are provided with fingers fabricated at each end (i.e. both ends), and the process involves fingering each end of the stick simultaneously.

[0085] Preferably, the finger jointer (or finger shaper) is provided with a pair of cutting heads configured to cut the fingers at each end of the same stick in a single pass.

[0086] Preferably, all of the sticks that are fingered and provided in a single packet are provided with fingers fabricated at each end (i.e. both ends), and the process includes fingering each end of each of the sticks simultaneously.

[0087] Preferably, a selection of the sticks are collated to create the fingers (or shape the fingers) of multiple stick ends in a single pass and provided to the finger jointer (of the finger shaper) as a group or single packet of sticks.

[0088] Preferably, a selection of the sticks are presented to the finger jointer (of the finger shaper) as a group or single packet of sticks so as to create the fingers (or shape the fingers) on both ends of multiple sticks in a single pass.

[0089] Preferably, each stick of said selection of sticks has a substantially constant or similar thickness.

[0090] Preferably, each stick of said selection of sticks has a substantially constant or similar cross-sectional profile or dimension.

[0091] Preferably, a selection of said sticks are assembled together end-to-end via end joints to provide an assembled composite of a series of sticks that is of greater longitudinal length than each of said individual sticks.

[0092] Preferably, the first selected combination of graded or pre-graded or pre-profiled or pre-characterized sticks is assembled into a first composite or assembled composite stick of a predetermined length for provision in a subsequent processing step.

[0093] Preferably, the second or subsequent selective combination of graded or pre-graded or pre-profiled sticks is assembled into a second or subsequent composite or second or subsequent assembled composite stick of a predetermined length for provision in a subsequent processing step.

[0094] Preferably, the combination of sticks is assembled by joining two or more graded sticks together, the joining being preferentially a finger-joining operation of the longitudinal ends of the graded sticks to obtain an assembled composite stick.

[0095] Preferably, the finger joints include an adhesive provided thereon (ie, the adhesive is a pressure sensitive adhesive).

[0096] Preferably, the finger joints operate continuously to create a continuous length of finger jointed assembly stick.

[0097] Preferably, said continuous length of finger joint assembly stick is cut to length.

[0098] Preferably, the length is a predetermined or predefined length.

[0099] In a further embodiment, in relation to the twelfth aspect, in some embodiments, one or more of the sticks that pass the structural test or structural review routine may be accumulated (optionally temporary accumulation or temporary storage), stored, or accumulated for provision to a subsequent processing step. Advantageously, the accumulation or storage of sticks is utilized or selected for a downstream subsequent processing step when there may be an interruption in the upstream processing step. Alternatively, the accumulation or storage may be utilized to facilitate the continuation of an upstream processing step when there may be an interruption in the downstream processing step.

[0100] In a thirteenth aspect, there is provided a process according to any one of the tenth, eleventh or twelfth aspects described above, wherein the composite stick formed from the group of sticks is a known collection of sticks of a pre-determined grade or profile or characteristic.

[0101] In a further embodiment, in relation to the thirteenth aspect, in some embodiments, one or more of the composite sticks so formed may be accumulated (optionally temporary accumulation or temporary storage), stored, or accumulated for provision to a subsequent processing step. Advantageously, the accumulation or storage of composite sticks is utilized or selected for a downstream subsequent processing step when there may be an interruption in the upstream processing step. Alternatively, the accumulation or storage may be utilized to facilitate the continuation of an upstream processing step when there may be an interruption in the downstream processing step.

[0102] In a fourteenth aspect, there is provided a process for continuously manufacturing laminas into laminated timber, said process comprising selectively combining two or more assembled composite sticks into a multi-layer composite arrangement along a longitudinal side surface or face of each said composite stick.

[0103] In a further embodiment, in relation to the fourteenth aspect, in some embodiments, one or more of the composite sticks may be secured or retrieved from a collection or store (optionally a temporary collection or store) where they are collected or stored for provision to a subsequent processing step. Advantageously, the collection or store of composite sticks is utilized or selected for a downstream subsequent processing step when there may be an interruption in the upstream processing step. Alternatively, the collection or store may be utilized to facilitate the continuation of an upstream processing step when there may be an interruption in the downstream processing step.

[0104] Preferably, the assembled composite stick is continuously advanced longitudinally to the feed end of the press.

[0105] Preferably, adhesive is applied to at least one longitudinal side surface or face, and the longitudinal side surface or face containing the adhesive is brought into face-to-face contact with a more highly assembled composite stick on an opposing longitudinal side surface or face of the more highly assembled composite stick.

[0106] Preferably, the adhesive is applied to at least one longitudinal side surface or face when said face is substantially horizontal (and said face faces substantially upwards).

[0107] Preferably, the composite stick with adhesive applied to the side surface or face is maintained in the orientation in which the adhesive was applied and is transported or delivered to the feed end of the press in that orientation.

[0108] Preferably, the composite stick containing the adhesive is held in the orientation for a predetermined period of time before the side surface or face containing the adhesive is brought into face-to-face contact with a more highly assembled composite stick.

[0109] Preferably, the predetermined period of time is sufficient for the adhesive to substantially achieve one or more of the predetermined adhesive tack, peel strength, and shear strength.

[0110] Preferably, the adhesive is a pressure sensitive adhesive or a heat curable adhesive.

[0111] Preferably, the composite stick delivered to the feed end of the press is rotated substantially axially so as to bring the side surface or face containing the applied adhesive into face-to-face contact with the more highly assembled composite stick.

[0112] Preferably, the higher composite sticks fed to the press are oriented so as to be ready to receive the later or subsequent composite sticks face-to-face.

[0113] Preferably, successive layups of assembled composite sticks are combined to form a multi-layer composite arrangement or configuration by bonding of adjacent longitudinally facing side surfaces or faces of each composite stick that is brought together.

[0114] Preferably, two or more alternative combinations of assembled composite sticks are then pressed together along the longitudinally facing side surfaces or faces of said alternative combinations and pressed with a predetermined pressure or applied force.

[0115] Preferably, two or more selective combinations of assembled composite sticks are pressed together for a predetermined period of time.

[0116] Preferably, the predetermined time is sufficient to allow the adhesive to cure or harden.

[0117] Preferably, two or more selective combinations of assembled composite sticks are pressed together and exposed to a predetermined temperature.

[0118] Preferably, the predetermined temperature is sufficient to cure the adhesive.

[0119] Preferably, the predetermined temperature is elevated enough to allow the previously applied adhesive to cure.

[0120] Preferably, two or more selective combinations of assembled composite sticks are pressed together and exposed to an energy source capable of initiating or accelerating the curing of the previously applied adhesive.

[0121] Preferably, the energy source is one or more of infrared, microwave, radio frequency, heated platen (heated by electric heater, hot oil, hot water or other working fluid), elevated temperature, or other energy source for curing the adhesive.

[0122] Preferably, a selective combination of assembled composite sticks are face-bonded together to form an laminated timber product.

[0123] Preferably, a plurality of groups of said selective combinations of assembled composite sticks are advanced sequentially into said press.

[0124] Preferably, a dry surface is provided between each group of selectively combined assembly sticks (i.e., at least two adjacent surfaces of the composite stick are devoid of adhesive to provide a dry or non-adhesive bond between groups of selectively combined assembly sticks).

[0125] Preferably, at least some of the groups of selective combinations of assembled sticks are advanced or further advanced within the press relative to subsequent composite sticks of the selective combinations of composite sticks to form a group.

[0126] Preferably, the laminated timber product is assembled sequentially by introducing or feeding successive individual composite sticks into the press, with the composite sticks that form part of the laminated timber product being formed being held and stored within the press, while subsequent composite sticks that are to be assembled into the advanced composite stick remain outside the press and await feeding into the press.

[0127] Preferably, the laminated timber product formed in the press is formed continuously by successive lay-up of composite sticks as lamina of the laminated timber product by successively delivering individual composite sticks to a feed section of the press.

[0128] Preferably, the laminated timber product being formed is formed sequentially by sequential joining of lamina to lamina, and optionally, the advancing lamina of the laminated timber product (being individual composite sticks) are joined together sequentially by sequential provision of individual composite sticks of a group of selected combinations of composite sticks.

[0129] Preferably, the press includes a plurality of groups of selectively composite sticks, each group forming an individual laminated timber product.

[0130] Preferably, a plurality of individual laminated wood products are present in said press at the same time.

[0131] Preferably, each individual laminated wood product is advanced incrementally through the press by a dimension (such as thickness), or each individual composite stick is advanced into the feed end of the press.

[0132] Preferably, each individual laminated wood product is forced or fed into the feed end of the press and advanced incrementally through the press by a dimension according to the size of the subsequently fed composite stick.

[0133] Preferably, each individual laminated wood product is progressively advanced from the exit of the press according to the size of the sequentially fed composite stick which is forced or fed into the feed end or entrance of the press.

[0134] Preferably, the laminated timber product is finished with respect to its final appearance and / or dimensions (e.g., by passing the product through one or more gauges, scales, cutters, etc. to adjust one or more of the length, width, and thickness of the product).

[0135] Preferably, the products are subject to specification of product quality parameters, such as minimum strength requirements, minimum bending requirements, or another predetermined physical characteristic of each product so formed.

[0136] Preferably, said characterization of said product quality provides a measurement assessment of meeting minimum product quality parameters.

[0137] In a fifteenth aspect, there is provided a process for the manufacture of an engineered wood product, the process comprising: Providing a source of timber or logs; producing a plurality of individual sticks sourced from said source, each of said individual sticks being of substantially uniform dimensions (the dimensions of said sticks being substantially uniform with respect to length, width and thickness); Each stick, moisture content (by subjecting the individual sticks to a drying and / or moisture conditioning step); Dimensions (such as by subjecting the individual sticks to one or more thickness gauges, scales, cutters, etc. to adjust the length, width, and / or thickness of the individual sticks) adjusting for one or more of the following: Identifying quality parameters (such as minimum strength requirements, minimum bending requirements or another predetermined physical property of each individual stick) and identifying whether an individual stick should be excluded from the process or discarded, or whether an individual stick should be advanced through the process; aggregating the individual sticks, the individual sticks being aggregated into separate groups, the individual sticks in each group comprising one or more predetermined quality parameters that are within selected ranges of the predetermined quality parameters; selecting a predetermined number of sticks from the collected group of sticks and joining the selected sticks end-to-end to one another to create end-joined sticks; Joining two or more (or three or more or more) of the end-joined sticks together about a major surface of each end-joined stick to create a series of end-joined sticks that are assembled together to form the product. Includes.

[0138] Preferably, the individual sticks are adjusted to have a substantially similar or substantially constant cross-sectional profile (the cross-sectional profile being related to the thickness and width of the stick).

[0139] Preferably, the product is surface finished with respect to its final appearance and / or dimensions (e.g., by passing the product through one or more thickness gauges, scales, cutters, etc. to adjust one or more of the length, width, and thickness of the product).

[0140] Preferably, the products are subject to specification of product quality parameters, such as minimum strength requirements, minimum bending requirements, or another predetermined physical characteristic of each product so formed.

[0141] Preferably, said characterization of said product quality provides a qualitative assessment of meeting minimum product quality parameters.

[0142] Preferably, the major surfaces of the two or more end-joined sticks are joined by an assembly or adhesive assembly process.

[0143] Preferably, the assembly process includes a press to apply the assembly pressure.

[0144] Preferably, the assembly process includes an adhesive curing step.

[0145] Preferably, the adhesive curing step includes one or more of infrared, microwave, radio frequency, heated platen (heated by electric heater, hot oil, hot water or other working fluid), elevated temperature, or other energy source for curing the adhesive provided on the major surface.

[0146] In a sixteenth aspect, there is provided a process for the treatment of an laminated wood product made from a sequentially arranged layout of lamina, the process comprising: In a first step, the entire laminated wood product is exposed to a wood treatment or preservative composition in a spray booth; and then In a second step, exposing the entire laminated wood product received from the first step by immersing the laminated wood product in a bath of a wood treatment composition; Includes.

[0147] Preferably, the second step can be used as a conditioning or reconditioning step to increase the relative moisture content of the laminated wood product.

[0148] floating magnitude point In another aspect, there is provided a method of collecting individual sticks obtained from a wood or log source and aggregating a plurality of said individual sticks into groups, the method comprising: Identifying (e.g., by measurement) one or more physical parameters or qualities of each stick; ascribing a defined value (or other quantifier) ​​to each individual stick based on said identification (e.g., by measurement) of said one or more physical parameters or qualities of said stick within a predetermined range; Sticks of the same nominal value are grouped together in separate groups; The range, the lower limit of the range, Upper limit of the above range and adjusting the predetermined range by adjusting one or more of the following to vary the specified value attributed to one or more individual sticks that are subsequently identified. Includes.

[0149] Preferably, each group contains sticks of the same defined value or within said defined value range.

[0150] Preferably, there may be four or more groups.

[0151] Preferably, there may be six or more groups.

[0152] Preferably, there may be 11 or more groups.

[0153] Preferably, there may be nine groups.

[0154] Preferably, there may be five groups.

[0155] Preferably, there may be three groups.

[0156] Preferably, for each of the groups, one or more of the ranges or the lower limit of the range or the upper limit of the range is adjusted based on adjusting the upper and lower bounds of the specified value (or quantifier) ​​of a predetermined number of sticks to be received for subsequent processing.

[0157] Preferably, for each said group, said range is adjusted by adjusting the upper and lower bounds of said defined value (or quantifier) ​​of a predetermined number of sticks to be received for subsequent processing.

[0158] Preferably, for each said group, the range is adjusted by adjusting the upper and lower bounds of the specified value (or quantifier) ​​of the sticks of each group, the upper and lower bounds being based on a predetermined number of sticks to be received for subsequent processing.

[0159] Preferably, the adjusting or tuning is specific to each stick.

[0160] Preferably, the predetermined number of sticks is greater than about 10 sticks, or greater than about 100 sticks, or greater than about 250 sticks, or greater than about 500 sticks, or greater than about 1,000 sticks, or greater than about 2,000 sticks, or greater than about 5,000 sticks, or greater than about 10,000 sticks.

[0161] Preferably, the adjusting or regulation is based on the number of sticks in the stream of sticks or the last 10 sticks counted, or more than about 100 sticks counted, or more than about 250 sticks, or more than about 500 sticks, or more than about 1,000 sticks, or more than about 2,000 sticks, or about 5,000 sticks, or more than about 10,000 sticks counted.

[0162] Preferably, the adjusting or regulating is based on a predetermined period of production or processing, such as, for example, the last 10 minutes, or the last 20 minutes, or the last 30 minutes, or the last 40 minutes, or the last 50 minutes, or the last 60 minutes of production or processing of the stick.

[0163] Preferably, the predetermined number of sticks is about 10 sticks, or about 100 sticks, or about 250 sticks, or about 500 sticks, or about 1,000 sticks, or about 2,000 sticks, or about 5,000 sticks, or about 10,000 sticks.

[0164] Preferably, said regulating or adjusting is performed so that each of the individual groups receives a predetermined proportion of the plurality of sticks sourced from said source of timber or logs.

[0165] Preferably, there is a counting or assessment of the number or amount of sticks in each grade, and said adjusting or regulating is performed dynamically to provide a balance or balanced proportion or predetermined proportion of sticks accumulated in each grade as a result of the specified value attributed to each stick.

[0166] Preferably, each group receives the same or similar proportions.

[0167] Preferably, one or more of the groups receive different or differing proportions.

[0168] Preferably, one or more of the groups receives the same or similar proportions as the other groups.

[0169] Preferably, at least one (or more) of the groups receive a different or divergent proportion of the sticks, and the remaining groups receive the same or similar proportions as each of the remaining groups.

[0170] Preferably, each group represents a range of sticks that have the same defined value (or other quantifier) ​​or that are within a predetermined range of the defined value (or other quantifier).

[0171] Preferably, said adjusting or tuning is done dynamically based on stick count or based on said predetermined number of sticks.

[0172] Preferably, the relative proportions of the amounts of sticks accumulated in each group are sufficient to provide for matching of the sticks, each stick being of a specified value (or other quantifier) ​​for subsequent selective combination of sticks from each individual group for reassembly into a composite stick.

[0173] Preferably, said composite stick is assembled from individual sticks from the same group.

[0174] Preferably, a plurality of composite sticks will be assembled, each assembled composite stick being derived from individual sticks from each group.

[0175] Preferably, the plurality of individual composite sticks will be provided from different or separate groups, more specifically a first composite stick will be provided from an assembly of sticks from a first group, while a second composite stick will be provided from an assembly of sticks from a second group, etc.

[0176] Preferably, the composite sticks will be provided as individual lamina of an laminated timber product.

[0177] In another aspect, a process is provided that includes receiving a production stream of sticks for subsequent processing using sticks having specified values ​​(or other quantifiers) of the attributes defined above.

[0178] In another aspect, there is provided a process for the accumulation of sticks as defined above, wherein a received stream of specifically pre-graded, or pre-profiled, or pre-characterized sticks, individual sticks of the stream of sticks are diverted to a storage or holding bay or other facility to collect a plurality of sticks of substantially similar profile or grade, or sticks of a profile or grade within a particular predetermined range of performance or property requirements, to facilitate the accumulation of such sticks for subsequent delivery to said process, or for procuring from one or more of said storage or holding bays one or more sticks of the same or different profile or grade for use in subsequent processing.

[0179] Preferably, a predetermined selection of a plurality of identically or differently graded, or pre-graded, or pre-profiled, or pre-characterized sticks is created or made from a store or collection of sticks, and said selection of sticks is directed (e.g., by conveying) for a subsequent processing step.

[0180] Preferably, the graded or characterized sticks are differentially separated and differentially pooled or stored with substantially similarly graded or characterized sticks for subsequent processing steps.

[0181] Preferably, said accumulator is capable of receiving a stream of specifically pre-graded or pre-profiled sticks, and individual sticks in the stream of sticks are diverted to a storage or holding bay or other facility for collecting multiple sticks of substantially similar profile or grade or sticks of profile or grade within a particular predetermined range of performance or property requirements to facilitate the accumulation of such sticks for subsequent delivery to a process or for procuring from one or more of said storage or holding bays one or more sticks of the same or different profile or grade for use in subsequent processing.

[0182] Preferably, a predetermined selection of a plurality of identically or differently graded, or pre-graded, or pre-profiled, or pre-characterized sticks is created or made from a store or collection of sticks, and said selection of sticks is directed (e.g., by conveying) for a subsequent processing step.

[0183] Preferably, the predetermined selection is a predefined quantity of sticks from an identically graded or pre-graded or pre-profiled or pre-characterized stock or accumulation, provided as a group of sticks for a subsequent processing step.

[0184] Preferably, said subsequent processing step is applied to groups of sticks, said groups of sticks being conveyed sequentially (eg conveyed and processed in a linear fashion).

[0185] Preferably, said subsequent processing step comprises an end-to-end stick joining operation.

[0186] Preferably, the end-to-end stick joining operation is a finger joining step for finger joining the tail of the leading stick and the head of the trailing stick.

[0187] Preferably, in a group of sticks, the first leading stick has only its tail fingered to the trailing stick, the last trailing stick has only its head fingered to the immediately preceding leading stick, and each stick in between is fingered to each of the immediately preceding leading stick and the immediately following trailing stick.

[0188] Preferably, the finger joints may include adhesive pre-applied to each end of the finger joint cut of each stick of the group.

[0189] Preferably, the adhesive may be any suitable adhesive for joining or fastening or adhering wood surfaces together or for forming an adhesive joint.

[0190] Preferably, when joined end to end, the group of sticks forms a composite stick.

[0191] In another aspect, a process is provided for finger joining a plurality of sticks to one another end-to-end, wherein selected ones of the sticks are oriented so that fingers are created at the end of each stick or at each end of each said stick.

[0192] Preferably, at least some of the sticks to be fingered are provided with fingers fabricated at each end (i.e. both ends), and the process involves fingering each end of the stick simultaneously.

[0193] Preferably, the finger jointer (or finger shaper) is provided with a pair of cutting heads configured to cut the fingers at each end of the same stick in a single pass.

[0194] Preferably, all of the sticks that are fingered and provided in a single packet are provided with fingers fabricated at each end (i.e. both ends), and the process includes fingering each end of each of the sticks simultaneously.

[0195] Preferably, a selection of the sticks are collated to create the fingers (or shape the fingers) of multiple stick ends in a single pass and provided to the finger jointer (of the finger shaper) as a group or single packet of sticks.

[0196] Preferably, a selection of the sticks are presented to the finger jointer (of the finger shaper) as a group or single packet of sticks so as to create the fingers (or shape the fingers) on both ends of multiple sticks in a single pass.

[0197] Preferably, each stick of said selection of sticks has a substantially constant or similar thickness.

[0198] Preferably, each stick of said selection of sticks has a substantially constant or similar cross-sectional profile or dimension.

[0199] Preferably, a selection of said sticks are assembled together end-to-end via end joints to provide an assembled composite of a series of sticks that is of greater longitudinal length than each of said individual sticks.

[0200] Preferably, the first selected combination of graded or pre-graded or pre-profiled or pre-characterized sticks is assembled into a first composite or assembled composite stick of a predetermined length for provision in a subsequent processing step.

[0201] Preferably, the second or subsequent selective combination of graded or pre-graded or pre-profiled sticks is assembled into a second or subsequent composite or second or subsequent assembled composite stick of a predetermined length for provision in a subsequent processing step.

[0202] Preferably, the combination of sticks is assembled by joining two or more graded sticks together, the joining being preferentially a finger-joining operation of the longitudinal ends of the graded sticks to obtain an assembled composite stick.

[0203] Preferably, the finger joints include an adhesive provided thereon (ie, the adhesive is a pressure sensitive adhesive).

[0204] Preferably, the finger joints operate continuously to create a continuous length of finger jointed assembly stick.

[0205] Preferably, said continuous length of finger joint assembly stick is cut to length.

[0206] Preferably, the length is a predetermined or predefined length.

[0207] In another aspect, there is provided a process according to any one of the aspects described above, wherein the composite stick formed from the group of sticks is a known collection of sticks of a pre-determined grade or profile or characteristic.

[0208] In another aspect, a process for continuously manufactured laminas into an assembly is provided, said process comprising selectively combining two or more assembled composite sticks into a multi-layer composite arrangement along a longitudinal side surface or face of each said composite stick.

[0209] Preferably, the assembled composite stick is continuously advanced longitudinally to the feed end of the press.

[0210] Preferably, adhesive is applied to at least one longitudinal side surface or face, and the longitudinal side surface or face containing the adhesive is brought into face-to-face contact with a more highly assembled composite stick on an opposing longitudinal side surface or face of the more highly assembled composite stick.

[0211] Preferably, the adhesive is applied to at least one longitudinal side surface or face when said face is substantially horizontal (and said face faces substantially upwards).

[0212] Preferably, the composite stick with adhesive applied to the side surface or face is maintained in the orientation in which the adhesive was applied and is transported or delivered to the feed end of the press in that orientation.

[0213] Preferably, the composite stick containing the adhesive is held in the orientation for a predetermined period of time before the side surface or face containing the adhesive is brought into face-to-face contact with a more highly assembled composite stick.

[0214] Preferably, the predetermined period of time is sufficient for the adhesive to substantially achieve one or more of the predetermined adhesive tack, peel strength, and shear strength.

[0215] Preferably, the adhesive is a pressure sensitive adhesive or a heat curable adhesive.

[0216] Preferably, the composite stick delivered to the feed end of the press is rotated substantially axially so as to bring the side surface or face containing the applied adhesive into face-to-face contact with the more highly assembled composite stick.

[0217] Preferably, the higher composite sticks fed to the press are oriented so as to be ready to receive the later or subsequent composite sticks face-to-face.

[0218] Preferably, successive layups of assembled composite sticks are combined to form a multi-layer composite arrangement or configuration by bonding of adjacent longitudinally facing side surfaces or faces of each composite stick that is brought together.

[0219] Preferably, two or more alternative combinations of assembled composite sticks are then pressed together along the longitudinally facing side surfaces or faces of said alternative combinations and pressed with a predetermined pressure or applied force.

[0220] Preferably, two or more selective combinations of assembled composite sticks are pressed together for a predetermined period of time.

[0221] Preferably, the predetermined time is sufficient to allow the adhesive to cure or harden.

[0222] Preferably, two or more selective combinations of assembled composite sticks are pressed together and exposed to a predetermined temperature.

[0223] Preferably, the predetermined temperature is sufficient to cure the adhesive.

[0224] Preferably, the predetermined temperature is elevated enough to allow the previously applied adhesive to cure.

[0225] Preferably, two or more selective combinations of assembled composite sticks are pressed together and exposed to an energy source capable of initiating or accelerating the curing of the previously applied adhesive.

[0226] Preferably, the energy source is one or more of infrared, microwave, radio frequency, heated platen (heated by electric heater, hot oil, hot water or other working fluid), elevated temperature, or other energy source for curing the adhesive.

[0227] Preferably, a selective combination of assembled composite sticks are face-bonded together to form an laminated timber product.

[0228] Preferably, a plurality of groups of said selective combinations of assembled composite sticks are advanced sequentially into said press.

[0229] Preferably, a dry surface is provided between each group of selectively combined assembly sticks (i.e., at least two adjacent surfaces of the composite stick are devoid of adhesive to provide a dry or non-adhesive bond between groups of selectively combined assembly sticks).

[0230] Preferably, at least some of the groups of selective combinations of assembled sticks are advanced or further advanced within the press relative to subsequent composite sticks of the selective combinations of composite sticks to form a group.

[0231] Preferably, the laminated timber product is assembled sequentially by introducing or feeding successive individual composite sticks into the press, with the composite sticks that form part of the laminated timber product being formed being held and stored within the press, while subsequent composite sticks that are to be assembled into the advanced composite stick remain outside the press and await feeding into the press.

[0232] Preferably, the laminated timber product formed in the press is formed continuously by successive lay-up of composite sticks as lamina of the laminated timber product by successively delivering individual composite sticks to a feed section of the press.

[0233] Preferably, the laminated timber product being formed is formed sequentially by sequential joining of lamina to lamina, and optionally, the advancing lamina of the laminated timber product (being individual composite sticks) are joined together sequentially by sequential provision of individual composite sticks of a group of selected combinations of composite sticks.

[0234] Preferably, the press includes a plurality of groups of selectively composite sticks, each group forming an individual laminated timber product.

[0235] Preferably, a plurality of individual laminated wood products are present in said press at the same time.

[0236] Preferably, each individual laminated wood product is advanced incrementally through the press by a dimension (such as thickness), or each individual composite stick is advanced into the feed end of the press.

[0237] Preferably, each individual laminated wood product is forced or fed into the feed end of the press and advanced incrementally through the press by a dimension according to the size of the subsequently fed composite stick.

[0238] Preferably, each individual laminated wood product is progressively advanced from the exit of the press according to the size of the sequentially fed composite stick which is forced or fed into the feed end or entrance of the press.

[0239] Preferably, the laminated timber product is finished with respect to its final appearance and / or dimensions (e.g., by passing the product through one or more gauges, scales, cutters, etc. to adjust one or more of the length, width, and thickness of the product).

[0240] Preferably, the products are subject to specification of product quality parameters, such as minimum strength requirements, minimum bending requirements, or another predetermined physical characteristic of each product so formed.

[0241] Preferably, said characterization of said product quality provides a measurement assessment of meeting minimum product quality parameters.

[0242] In a further embodiment, in relation to any one of the above aspects, in some embodiments, one or more of the sticks or composite sticks or individual laminated wood products may be accumulated (optionally temporary accumulation or temporary storage), stored, or accumulated for provision to a subsequent processing step. Advantageously, the accumulation or storage may be utilized or selected for a downstream subsequent processing step when there may be an interruption in the upstream processing step. Alternatively, the accumulation or storage may be utilized to facilitate the continuation of an upstream processing step when there may be an interruption in the downstream processing step.

[0243] The term "comprising" as used in this specification and claims means "consisting at least in part of." When interpreting each statement in this specification and claims that includes the term "comprising," there may be features other than those preceding that or those terms. Related terms such as "comprise" and "comprises" should be interpreted in the same way.

[0244] Reference to a range of numbers disclosed herein (e.g., 1 to 10) is intended to incorporate reference to every rational number within that range (e.g., 1, 1.1, 2, 3, 3.9, 4, 5, 6, 6.5, 7, 8, 9, and 10), as well as any range of rational numbers within that range (e.g., 2 to 8, 1.5 to 5.5, and 3.1 to 4.7); thus, all subranges of every range explicitly disclosed herein are hereby expressly disclosed. These are merely examples of what is specifically intended, and all possible combinations of numerical values ​​between the lowest and highest values ​​recited should be considered to be expressly set forth in this application in the same manner.

[0245] As used herein, the term "and / or" means "and" or "or" or both.

[0246] As used herein, "(s)" following a noun refers to the plural and / or singular form of the noun.

[0247] Numerous modifications in the structure and widely different embodiments and applications of the present invention will suggest themselves to those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains without departing from the scope of the invention, which is defined in the appended claims. The disclosures and descriptions herein are purely illustrative and are not intended to be in any sense limiting.

[0248] The present disclosure contemplates configurations as described above, the following of which are provided by way of example only. Features disclosed herein may be combined into novel embodiments of compatible components addressing the same or related inventive concepts. For example, the retention mechanism of one illustrated embodiment may be combined with the air delivery side of the cannula and the patient interface having a foldable wall of another illustrated embodiment. Similarly, one embodiment of the foldable wall on the air delivery side may be combined with another embodiment of the foldable wall on the other side or non-air delivery side, as desired.

[0249] Preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, and with reference to the following drawings, in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0250] [Figure 1] 1 illustrates an exemplary process flow for the division of a log source through to the assembly of an engineered timber product formed from lamina of composite sticks. [Figure 2] A process flow diagram is described that shows a series of individual steps or stages that may be performed to manufacture a final product. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0251] Where a series of individual steps are provided, it will be appreciated that these may be performed alone or in combination with other outlined steps as described herein.

[0252] Various embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. Throughout the drawings and this specification, the same reference numerals are used to denote the same or similar components, and redundant descriptions thereof may be omitted.

[0253] FIG. 1 shows an exemplary process flow for the division of a log source through to the assembly of an engineered timber product formed from lamina of composite sticks.

[0254] Figure 2 shows a process flow diagram illustrating a series of steps in the manufacture of an engineered wood product. Each of the individual steps can be performed alone or in combination with any of the other steps as described herein.

[0255] Providing processes (and associated equipment) that can split or utilize traditionally low-value log lumber to produce high-value structural lumber is a significant area of ​​interest. "Low-value" typically or traditionally results from one or more of the log's shape (which is non-linear), its strength or other physical attributes, its available length (shorter lengths are less valuable than longer lengths), and its age (younger logs are traditionally less valuable for structural lumber requirements).

[0256] The ability to provide processes and associated equipment that can process such lower value logs (in addition to higher value logs, if desired) and produce higher value end products through manufacturing and processing capabilities is of great interest.

[0257] For example, forest or log resources will inevitably continue to grow, even with careful harvesting techniques and maintenance of forest and log sources during the growing year, producing some forest or log resources that do not meet the strict requirements for use as structural lumber if structural lumber is harvested directly from the tree trunks or logs themselves by simple milling or sawing techniques to obtain such lumber. Generally, a range of lengths of lumber can be obtained from a tree trunk or log, with the lengths obtained depending on the shape of the trunk or log (including bends and other growth artifacts such as knots). The remaining portion of the trunk or log can then be split into other shorter lengths of lumber, and the remainder can then be converted into pulp for its cellulose fibers or used for other purposes.

[0258] The ability to obtain high yields of structural timber from tree trunks or logs is highly dependent on the trunks or logs themselves, and therefore affects the forest owner, or harvester, or sawmill, respectively, with respect to their overall ability to supply or produce structural timber from available resources. Increasing structural timber in this part of the chain requires harvesting more forests to obtain more tree trunks or logs and to convert that increased harvest into wood products. However, this does not address the constraints on structural timber issues related to available resources or constraints on more efficient use of available resources.

[0259] Additionally, economic benefits may be enhanced in processes such as those described herein by the provision of one or more accumulation or storage facilities or buffers that allow for the accumulation or storage of material provided from an upstream processing step or stage, thereby facilitating a continuous source of such material for a subsequent processing step or stage. Furthermore, in the event that a problem may arise in a downstream processing step or stage, such accumulation or storage may be beneficial in providing the ability for the upstream processing step or stage to continue uninterrupted while the problem in the downstream processing step or stage is resolved.

[0260] The accumulation or storage can operate as a buffer station and be fully automated to support a more continuous production process by ensuring maximum factory uptime and helping to smooth peaks and dips in production rates. In this way, some portions of the process or factory can be operated in batch processing mode, while other portions can operate continuously or semi-continuously. Providing such capability may be available for multiple in-production workpiece measurement units (e.g., sticks or composite sticks and sheets) and may utilize automated stack placement to minimize the space required to deploy or provide accumulation or storage center facilities. The overall processing capacity of a factory may be increased by providing continuously operating units downstream of the accumulation or storage or buffer, rather than those that can be automatically deployed or operated in a manner that empties previously constructed accumulation or storage or buffers while still running upstream machine centers at their rated speed.

[0261] Thus, a process is provided for segmenting or dividing a source log (from a source such as a single- or multi-species forest) into one or a series of discrete longitudinal lengths for subsequent processing. The process includes dividing (such as by cutting) the source log into a plurality of substantially uniform or substantially constant predetermined length log portions. The plurality of substantially uniform or substantially constant predetermined length log portions are provided for subsequent processing steps.

[0262] Also provided is a process for sectioning or dividing a source log into discrete longitudinal lengths for subsequent processing, the process comprising simultaneously dividing the source log into a plurality of substantially uniform or substantially constant predetermined length log portions, the plurality of substantially uniform or substantially constant predetermined length log portions being provided for subsequent processing steps.

[0263] A process is also provided for dividing individual input source logs into separate longitudinal lengths for subsequent processing, said process comprising: receiving individual input source logs; Optionally, longitudinally positioning or advancing the individual input source logs to a reference position such as on a cutting deck or support platform for a subsequent log splitting operation (optionally presenting the input source logs to the cutting deck or support platform for subsequent splitting in a single lift or single lift operation); Optionally, restraining the individual input source logs on a cutting deck or support platform either longitudinally (such as along the log length or log end) or rotationally or angularly (such as restraining the log from rotating axially) or both for restraint during subsequent log splitting operations; Dividing an input source log into one or more production log portions of predetermined lengths, wherein at least some of the production log portions resulting from said dividing are of substantially equal or substantially constant or uniform longitudinal lengths, and said substantially equal or substantially constant or uniform longitudinal length production log portions are sourced as a supply stream of log material for a subsequent processing step. Optionally, the input source log is split simultaneously into a plurality of output log portions. Optionally, one or more of the predetermined length log portions provided for a subsequent processing step may be accumulated (optionally in a temporary accumulation or temporary storage) for provision to the subsequent processing step. Advantageously, the accumulation or storage of the predetermined length log portions is utilized or selected for a downstream subsequent processing step when there is a potential interruption in the upstream processing step. Alternatively, the accumulation or storage may be utilized to facilitate the continuation of an upstream processing step when there is a potential interruption in the downstream processing step.

[0264] Also provided is a process for segmenting or dividing a production log portion into a plurality of stick streams that are procured as a supply stream of log material for subsequent processing, the process comprising: end mounting the production log section (i.e., each end / both ends of the production log section are end mounted); selectively cutting the production log section with two or more rotary saw blades operable at substantially 90 degrees relative to one another to thereby cut to release individual sticks from the mounted production log section, the two or more saw blades being longitudinally movable relative to the longitudinal length of the mounted production log section via a carriage; axially rotating the production log section in response to a command, either in conjunction with rotating the production log section or in intervals between rotating cuts of the production log section; removing (optionally automatically or in an automated manner) each cutting stick from the mounted production log section by a vacuum or suction system (optionally a robotic vacuum or suction system) upon release from the production log section; wherein the production log section is rotated axially (optionally on command) to present a surface of the production log section to the two or more rotary saw blades to facilitate passage of each of the two or more rotary saws along the longitudinal length of the production log section to produce one or more individual sticks, which are provided as a stream of sticks for subsequent processing.

[0265] Also provided is an apparatus for dividing or splitting a production log portion into a plurality of stick streams to be procured as a supply stream of log material for subsequent processing, the apparatus comprising: a pair of substantially opposed end mounts, each mount configured to be engageable with a respective longitudinal end of the production log portion; a drive configured to rotate the end mount; carriages having rotary saw blades which operate at 90 degrees to each other, thereby making a cut to release the sticks from the mounted production log section when in use in each carriage orientation; a vacuum or suction system (optionally a robotic vacuum or suction system) that vacuums or suctions each stick from the mounted production log section as and / or when it is cut free; and removal of each cutting stick from the mounted production log section (optionally automatically or in an automated manner) by a vacuum or suction system (optionally a robotic vacuum or suction system) upon release from the production log section.

[0266] Optionally, one or more of the sticks of the stream of sticks may be accumulated (optionally in temporary accumulation or temporary storage) for provision to a subsequent processing step. Advantageously, the accumulation or storage of the sticks may be utilized or selected for a downstream subsequent processing step when there is a possible interruption in an upstream processing step. Alternatively, the accumulation or storage may be utilized to facilitate the continuation of an upstream processing step when there is a possible interruption in a downstream processing step.

[0267] The apparatus defined above may further include a logic program system that commands the presentation of at least one mounted production log section in use for each carriage pass, thereby optimizing the yield of higher strength sticks within the range of strength sticks from each production log section.

[0268] Preferentially, the sticks are not removed from the log by a carriage, instead, preferentially, but not exclusively, the sticks are removed from the production log section upon release from the production log section by collection from a vacuum or suction system, optionally a robotic vacuum or suction system.

[0269] Also provided is a production line for manufacturing laminated timber beams, the beams being of profiled strength grade lamina cut to length from a set of finger-jointed boards or sticks, each of a strength-matching grade, and the use of the apparatus comprises: and a mount that, on command, provides sticks by rotating the barked logs; carriages which operate at 90 degrees to each other so that, in use in each carriage orientation, a rotary saw blade cuts to release sticks from the mounted production log section, the sticks not being dragged from the log by the carriage; a robotic system that suction-removes each stick from the mounted log as and / or when it is cut free; a logic program system that commands the presentation of at least one mounted log in use per carriage pass, thereby optimizing the yield of higher strength sticks within the range of strength sticks from each log; Includes.

[0270] Following the above, any remaining or excess log lengths that are not of the predetermined length are discarded or not utilized in subsequent processing steps of the process, or those log lengths remaining from splitting that do not achieve the required predetermined longitudinal length are discarded from the process, although such material may still have value and be utilized in another process (e.g., may be sold for wood chip or fiber purposes).

[0271] Preference is given to producing a stream of production log portions having longitudinal lengths that are substantially equal to or of substantially constant or uniform length with respect to each of the other production log portions. In particular, each such production log portion utilized in subsequent processing in the process should advantageously be of a predetermined longitudinal length that may be specified by the process or mill operator. Such length may be specified by factors such as the quality of the log resource received by the mill or other factors, such as an effective length that is specified according to the resource received by the mill or the end product intended to be produced.

[0272] In one particular embodiment, the log portions of equal or substantially constant or uniform longitudinal length are about 1 meter. That is, the predetermined longitudinal length may be set to about 1 meter. In alternative embodiments, the desired longitudinal length of the log portions may be less than about 10 meters, or less than about 6 meters, or less than about 5 meters, or less than about 4 meters, or less than about 3 meters, or less than about 2.4 meters, or less than about 2 meters, or less than about 1.5 meters, or less than about 0.5 meters.

[0273] If a production log portion is discarded because it has provided feed for subsequent processing, such production log portion: - the production log sections are of a longitudinal length substantially different from the stated longitudinal length, or - the production log sections are of substantially unequal or substantially unequal or uniform longitudinal length compared to production log sections of substantially equal or substantially constant or uniform longitudinal length; The identification may be based on either

[0274] Consistency and uniformity in the longitudinal length (i.e., end-to-end) of the production log portions fed into the production process facilitates the ability to mechanize the production process and increase production capacity, along with more automated control of process equipment based on the consistency of the feed material.

[0275] The production log sections should advantageously each have parallel ends (a single log section with a pair of opposing ends, said ends formed from the splitting operation of the input source log). In this way, subsequent processing of the production log sections is also simplified to minimize downstream dimensional cutting or refining.

[0276] A plurality of cutting heads (such as at least two or at least three or more) or log cutters may be provided to act on or cooperate with the input source log to split it into (optionally multiple) production log portions. It will be appreciated that the log cutter may typically be one of a chainsaw, blade saw, or band saw, although any suitable log cutting device may be utilized. The input source log may be elevated onto a cutting deck and suitably restrained while the cutting or splitting operation is then performed. Once the cutting or splitting operation is performed, the individual production log portions may then be transported downstream for subsequent, further individual processing. Optionally, restraints may be applied to the production log portions, or the restraints may be movable to release the production log portions so that they resume a configuration suitable for receiving additional input source logs.

[0277] Each individual production log portion procured as part of the supply stream of log material for subsequent processing is then individually subjected to a further splitting operation to produce a plurality of cut sticks (i.e., individual sticks) of predetermined dimensions from the production log portion, which are then provided as a production stream of sticks.

[0278] Downstream, each individual production log section procured as part of a supply stream of log material for subsequent processing is individually evaluated to identify further splitting operations to substantially maximize the available quantity of sticks of substantially equal or substantially constant or uniform size or cross-sectional profile as a production stream of sticks from said individual production log section. That is, each production log section is subjected to a cutting pattern along its longitudinal length to generate a plurality of individually cut sticks from said production log section, each cut stick being the longitudinal length of the production log section.

[0279] This further division operation is - maximizing the amount of sticks of substantially equal or substantially constant or uniform size or cross-sectional profile produced from the available volume of log material; - Minimizing waste or volume of log material that cannot be used to produce sticks of substantially equal or substantially constant or uniform dimensions or cross-sectional profile; - maximizing the quantity of sticks of substantially equal or substantially constant or uniform size or cross-sectional profile from a particular portion of said log section that are likely to be of substantially similar performance or property requirements; The stick production stream may be controlled (or varied or adjusted) to provide a production stream of sticks sufficient to meet or attempt to achieve one or more of the following:

[0280] As described above, each individual production log portion is in turn divided into a plurality of substantially similarly or identically sized sticks or a series of streams of sticks, each such stream being a stream of the same or substantially similarly sized sticks.

[0281] As described above, each individual production log portion is subsequently divided into a plurality of sticks or a series of streams of sticks of substantially equal or substantially constant or uniform size or cross-sectional profile, each such stream being a stream of sticks of the same or substantially similar size or cross-sectional profile.

[0282] As noted above, each individual production log portion is subjected to a sequential splitting operation to provide a resulting product stream of sticks that are substantially equal or of substantially constant or uniform longitudinal length to the individual log portions procured as part of the supply stream of log material for subsequent processing, and at least a portion of the resulting product stream of sticks that are substantially equal or of substantially constant or uniform longitudinal length from the sequential splitting operations are of substantially uniform dimensions with respect to the cross-sectional profile (e.g., width and thickness) of each resulting product stick as a stream of sticks.

[0283] Each of these sticks corresponds in longitudinal length to the production log section from which they are derived.

[0284] As a result, the production stream of sticks produced from the sequential division of the production log section operation is subjected to evaluation or profiling with respect to one or more performance or property requirements to provide a relative grading of each produced stick.

[0285] Thus, a production stream of sticks obtained from a log source (such as a production log section) in which the sticks are of substantially equal or substantially constant or uniform longitudinal length and of substantially uniform dimensionality with respect to their cross-sectional profile (such as width and thickness) can then be subjected to a drying or moisture removal step to substantially reduce the moisture content of each stick in said stream of sticks.

[0286] The product stream of sticks is directed (eg by conveyance) to a dryer or to undergo a drying operation or a conditioning routine of said product stream of sticks.

[0287] The moisture removal step includes diverting, directing or conveying the stream of sticks as an input stream of sticks to a dryer and holding the sticks in the dryer for a predetermined period of time sufficient to remove or reduce the moisture content of the sticks to a notional moisture content value, wherein the sticks in the dryer are exposed to conditions sufficient to remove moisture from the sticks.

[0288] There are numerous wood drying devices and processes that would be suitable for this process, at least one of which should preferably operate in conjunction with the process and device described in PCT / NZ Patent Application Publication No. 2010 / 000228, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0289] Advantageously, what is delivered is an output stream of sticks with a reduced moisture content relative to the input stream of sticks received or delivered from said dryer.

[0290] The output stream of sticks may be at least partially conditioned or reconditioned from the minimum moisture level achieved in said dryer by partial uptake of moisture from the input or incoming stream of sticks or by another source of reconditioned moisture.

[0291] In some configurations, the stick production stream may have their moisture content removed or reduced to a level of 12% based on the weight of the dry or conditioned stick.

[0292] The dryer may operate on a countercurrent basis with respect to the incoming and outgoing streams of sticks being dried.

[0293] The production stream of sticks may be collected and stored in a racked arrangement, such as a pallet, a stacked assembly of multiple rack layers, etc., to hold or maintain the sticks therein during the drying stage. Such pallets or arrangements may be passed through a drying operation, with a dry air or gas flow stream directed as a flow path through the pallets entering the dryer towards the pallets exiting the dryer.

[0294] If the reconditioning step is carried out in a dryer, in one mode moisture removed from the incoming set of sticks can be directed towards the outgoing set of sticks. In such a mode, an air or gas flow can direct moisture removed from sticks on an incoming pallet, directing at least a portion of the moisture towards sticks on an outgoing pallet that will be removed from the dryer. In this way, moisture from sticks going into the dryer is directed towards sticks exiting said dryer as a conditioning or reconditioning step for those sticks leaving said dryer.

[0295] The stream of sticks sourced from the production log section (and optionally undergoing a drying stage) also undergoes a structural testing or structural probing routine.

[0296] For example, the process for a structural test or probing routine for a stream of sticks is: - removal of sticks from said stream of sticks if they are defective with respect to a predetermined structural performance or characteristic that has been measured, identified or observed; - deflection test of each (optionally dried) stick of said stream of sticks for conformity of the grading of said sticks with respect to a stockpile of plates; - bending test (i.e. longitudinal deflection) of each (optionally dried) stick of said stream of sticks for minimum bending capacity or property; - End load testing for minimum end load capacity or load characteristics (i.e. longitudinal compression); - Stick strength test for minimum strength capacity or characteristic may include one or more of:

[0297] Thus, each stick that passes the structural test or structural review routine is directed (eg, by transport) for subsequent processing steps.

[0298] Additionally, each stick that passes the structural test or structural review routine is graded or characterized with respect to the test or measurement results of the structural test or structural review routine and directed (e.g., by transport) for subsequent processing.

[0299] Those sticks that do not pass the structural test or structural review routine are discarded or excluded from further use in the process.

[0300] The production stream of sticks that pass the structural test or structural review routine are then pooled and grouped with similar sticks that have the same or similar or within a range of each stick's grading or characterization, i.e., an attribute or value is provided for each stick that represents each stick test result from the test or review routine, and then sticks with the same or similar or within a range of the defined attribute or value are pooled together for subsequent processing.

[0301] Thus, there exists a process for the accumulation of sticks, in which a received stream of specifically pre-graded or pre-profiled or pre-characterized sticks is provided, in which individual sticks of the stream of sticks are diverted to a warehouse (storage or holding bay or other facility) to collect or aggregate multiple sticks of substantially similar profile or grade, or sticks of profile or grade within a particular predetermined range of performance or property requirements, which facilitates the accumulation of such sticks for subsequent delivery to a process, or for sourcing from one or more of said storage or holding bays one or more sticks of the same or different profile or grade for use in subsequent processing.

[0302] A predetermined selection of a plurality of identically or differently graded, or pre-graded, or pre-profiled, or pre-characterized sticks is created or made from a storage or accumulation of sticks, and the selection of sticks is then directed (e.g., by conveying) for a subsequent processing step.

[0303] The graded or characterized sticks are differentially separated and differentially pooled or stored with substantially similarly graded or characterized sticks for subsequent processing steps.

[0304] The accumulator can receive a stream of specifically pre-graded or pre-profiled sticks, with individual sticks of the stream of sticks being diverted to a warehouse (storage or holding bay) or other facility for collecting multiple sticks of substantially similar profile or grade, or sticks of profile or grade within a particular predetermined range of performance or property requirements. This facilitates the accumulation of such sticks for subsequent delivery to a process or for sourcing from the warehouse (storage or holding bay) one or more sticks of the same or different profile or grade from one or more of said storage or holding bays for use in subsequent processing.

[0305] A predetermined selection of a plurality of the same or differently graded, or pre-graded, or pre-profiled, or pre-characterized sticks is then created or made from the store or collection of sticks, and the selection of sticks is directed (e.g., by conveying) for a subsequent processing step.

[0306] The predetermined selection is a predefined quantity of sticks from a stockpile or accumulation of identically graded or pre-graded or pre-profiled or pre-characterized sticks (i.e., a quantity or number sufficient to form a composite stick of a longitudinal length required for subsequent processing, possibly resembling the final laminated timber product to be produced) that are provided as a group of sticks for a subsequent processing step.

[0307] Subsequent processing steps are applied to the sticks in the group, and the sticks in that particular or specific group are conveyed sequentially (eg, conveyed and processed in a linear fashion).

[0308] In a further embodiment, a method is provided for collecting individual sticks sourced from a wood or log source and aggregating a plurality of the individual sticks into different groups. The method includes identifying (e.g., by measurement) one or more physical parameters or qualities of the individual sticks. For example, these may be parameters or qualities related to strength, or stiffness, or appearance, or other observable defects or other observable appearance characteristics, or may be quantitatively identified physical parameters related to structural properties of the sticks themselves. Once the identification or measurement is performed, a specified value (or other quantity) may be assigned to each individual stick based on previous identifications (e.g., by measurement) that fall within a predetermined range.

[0309] Based on the identity and attributes of the default values, sticks with the same default value can be grouped together in their respective groups so that sticks with the same default value are grouped together.

[0310] Furthermore, The range, the lower limit of the range, Upper limit of the above range By adjusting one or more of the above, a range of adjustments or calibrations can be performed to vary the specified values ​​attributed to the individual stick or sticks that are subsequently identified.

[0311] Each group of sticks is of sticks of the same specified value or within a specified range of values.

[0312] There may be more than 4 groups, or more than 6 groups, or more than 11 groups, or alternatively there may be 9 groups, or there may be 5 groups, or there may be 3 groups, etc. Any number of groups may be provided, as long as sticks of the same specified value are grouped together in the same group.

[0313] For each of the groups, one or more of the ranges or the lower limit of the range or the upper limit of the range may be adjusted based on adjusting the upper and lower bounds of the specified value (or quantifier) ​​of the predetermined number of sticks to be received for subsequent processing.

[0314] Alternatively, for each group, the range can be adjusted by adjusting the upper and lower bounds of the specified value (or quantifier) ​​of a predetermined number of sticks to be received for subsequent processing. Still further, alternatively, for each group, the range can be adjusted by adjusting the upper and lower bounds of the specified value (or quantifier) ​​of sticks for each group, the upper and lower bounds being based on the predetermined number of sticks to be received for subsequent processing.

[0315] Adjustments can be made on a stick-by-stick basis to account for variations in the number of sticks directed to each group, or based on the stick collection or stick count period or the period of operation of the production process (which can then be based on the linear speed of the manufacturing plant and an approximation of the number of sticks received elsewhere in the stream of sticks being processed).

[0316] The predetermined number of sticks is a stick count of more than about 10 sticks, or more than about 100 sticks, or more than about 250 sticks, or more than about 500 sticks, or more than about 1,000 sticks, or more than about 2,000 sticks, or more than about 5,000 sticks, or more than about 10,000 sticks. In other words, the adjusting or regulation can be based on the stick count of the stream of sticks or the last 10 sticks counted, or the last more than about 100 sticks counted, or more than about 250 sticks, or more than about 500 sticks, or more than about 1,000 sticks, or more than about 2,000 sticks, or more than about 5,000 sticks, or the last more than about 10,000 sticks counted.

[0317] Alternatively, in a time-based method, the adjusting or regulation is based on a predetermined period of production or processing, such as, for example, the last 10 minutes, or the last 20 minutes, or the last 30 minutes, or the last 40 minutes, or the last 50 minutes, or the last 60 minutes of production or processing of the sticks.

[0318] The predetermined number of sticks is about 10 sticks, or about 100 sticks, or about 250 sticks, or about 500 sticks, or about 1,000 sticks, or about 2,000 sticks, or about 5,000 sticks, or about 10,000 sticks.

[0319] The adjusting or regulating is advantageously carried out so that each of the individual groups receives or will receive a predetermined proportion of sticks of the plurality of sticks or stream of sticks procured from said source of timber or logs.

[0320] There may be a counting or evaluation of the number or amount of sticks in each grade, and adjustments or adjustments may be performed dynamically to provide a balance or balanced proportion or predetermined proportion of sticks to be the accumulation or attribute value provided to each stick to ensure a balance or balanced proportion of sticks sent or received to each grade as a result of the specified value attributed to each stick.

[0321] Each group may receive the same or similar proportions. Alternatively, one or more groups may receive different or divergent proportions. Furthermore, one or more groups may receive the same or similar proportions as other groups.

[0322] The balancing may be configured such that at least one (or more) of the groups receive a different or divergent proportion of the plurality of sticks, and the remaining groups then receive the same or similar proportions as each of their other remaining groups.

[0323] Each group represents a range of sticks, ie, having the same defined value (or other quantifier) ​​or within a predetermined range of the defined value (or other quantifier).

[0324] The adjusting or tuning can be done dynamically based on stick count or based on a predetermined number of sticks.

[0325] The relative proportions of the amounts of sticks accumulated in each group may be sufficient to provide a match of sticks, each stick being of a specified value (or other quantifier), for subsequent selective combination of sticks from each individual group for reassembly into a composite stick.

[0326] A composite stick may be assembled from individual sticks from the same group. Multiple composite sticks may be assembled for subsequent use, each assembled composite stick being derived from individual sticks from individual groups.

[0327] The multiple individual composite sticks will be provided from different or separate groups. More specifically, a first composite stick will be provided from an assembly of sticks from the first group, while a second composite stick will be provided from an assembly of sticks from the second group, etc. Each composite stick thus formed will provide an individual lamina in the final manufactured laminated timber product.

[0328] Subsequent processing steps include an end-to-end stick joining operation.

[0329] The end-to-end stick joining operation may be a finger joining step to finger join the tail of the leading stick with the head of the trailing stick.

[0330] Of the selected group of sticks, the first leading stick has only its tail fingered to the trailing stick, the last trailing stick has only its head fingered to the immediately preceding leading stick, and each stick in between is fingered to both the immediately preceding leading stick and the immediately following trailing stick.

[0331] The finger joints may have adhesive applied thereto. For example, adhesive may be pre-applied to the finger joint cuts at each end of each stick in the group. Examples of adhesives include pressure-sensitive adhesives. When joined end to end, the group of sticks is thus formed into a composite stick.

[0332] The finger joints can operate continuously to create a continuous length of finger jointed assembly sticks, which can then be cut to predetermined or predefined lengths.

[0333] A variety of finger joining operations may be utilized, however, in one embodiment and consistent with the intended advantages of the present invention for mechanization and increased manufacturing efficiency or production speed, a process may be provided for finger joining a plurality of sticks to one another end-to-end, with selected ones of the sticks being oriented such that fingers are created at an end (i.e., both ends) of each stick or at each end of each of said sticks.

[0334] At least some of the sticks can be subjected to a finger joint creation device to have fingers created at each end (i.e., both ends). In this manner, at least some of the sticks in a group (or more specifically, the total number of sticks in the group minus two) can be provided with finger joints at each end, and those finger joints at each end can be created simultaneously by a dual-cutting-head finger joint creation device. For example, a finger jointer can be provided with a pair of cutting heads configured to cut fingers at each end of the same stick in a single pass.

[0335] Of the finger-jointed sticks, in one embodiment, all of the sticks may be provided as a single packet and then molded or provided with fingers made at each end (i.e., both ends) in a simultaneous operation.

[0336] A grouping of sticks assembled together end-to-end is performed via end joining to provide an assembled composite of a series of sticks (i.e., those sticks of the group) that is of a longitudinal length greater than each of the individual sticks.

[0337] The finger joining operation operates continuously to produce a continuous length of finger joined assembled sticks that are cut to length, a predetermined or predefined length according to downstream requirements for the length of the final product to be produced.

[0338] It will be appreciated that there may be multiple finger formers and multiple finger joint assembly operations, with each finger joint assembly fingering together a continuous stream of sticks of the same attribute or specified value. In this manner, a series of finger jointer assembly operations may be operated simultaneously to provide a production length of assembled composite sticks, with the selection of individual sticks that make up each composite stick being each of the same attribute or specified value.

[0339] A series of different composite sticks can be produced, each formed from its own individual selection of individual sticks with the same defined or attribute values.

[0340] In this way, multiple composite sticks can be manufactured and presented together in a press for subsequent assembly according to a predetermined recipe (i.e., an arrangement of the composite sticks such that more of the specified number of individual sticks are provided on the outer layers, or lamina, or surfaces of the product from which they are formed, and more are provided towards the core or away from the outer lamina or outer surface) such that the composite sticks are assembled together in a predetermined order.

[0341] The first selected combination of graded or pre-graded or pre-profiled or pre-characterized sticks is assembled into a first composite or assembled composite stick of a predetermined length for provision in a subsequent processing step.

[0342] A second or subsequent selective combination of graded or pre-graded or pre-profiled sticks is assembled into a second or subsequent composite or second or subsequent assembled composite stick of a predetermined length for provision in a subsequent processing step.

[0343] The combination of sticks is assembled by joining two or more graded sticks together, the joining being preferentially a finger-joining operation of the longitudinal ends of the graded sticks to obtain the assembled composite stick.

[0344] The composite sticks described above will be formed from a group of sticks that are a known collection of sticks of a pre-determined grade or profile or characteristic.

[0345] Thus, the continuous production of lamina into an assembly involves selectively combining two or more assembled composite sticks into a multi-layer composite arrangement along the longitudinal side surfaces or faces of each said composite stick.

[0346] More specifically, the assembled composite stick is continuously advanced longitudinally to the feed end of the press.

[0347] Adhesive is applied to at least one longitudinal side surface or face, and the longitudinal side surface or face containing the adhesive is brought into face-to-face contact with a more highly assembled composite stick on an opposing longitudinal side surface or face of the more highly assembled composite stick.

[0348] Successive layups of assembled composite sticks are combined to form a multi-layer composite arrangement or configuration by bonding of adjacent longitudinally facing side surfaces or faces of each composite stick that is brought together.

[0349] The two or more alternative combinations of assembled composite sticks are then pressed together along the longitudinally facing side surfaces or faces of said alternative combinations and pressed together with a predetermined pressure or applied force.

[0350] Two or more selective combinations of assembled composite sticks are pressed together for a predetermined period of time.

[0351] The predetermined time is sufficient for the adhesive to cure or harden.

[0352] Two or more selected combinations of assembled composite sticks are pressed together and exposed to a predetermined temperature.

[0353] The predetermined temperature is a temperature elevated enough to allow the previously applied adhesive to cure.

[0354] Two or more selective combinations of assembled composite sticks are pressed together and exposed to an energy source capable of initiating or accelerating the curing of the previously applied adhesive.

[0355] The energy source may be one or more of infrared, microwave, radio frequency, heated platen (heated by electric heater, hot oil, hot water or other working fluid), elevated temperature, or other energy source for curing the adhesive.

[0356] Selective combinations of assembled composite sticks are surface bonded together to form an engineered timber product.

[0357] Depending on the manner in which the products are to be formed, multiple individual laminated timber products may be present in the press at the same time, i.e., each individual laminated timber product will be incrementally advanced through the press by a dimension (such as thickness) or amount equal to each individual composite stick advanced into the feed end of the press.

[0358] In other words, each individual laminated timber product is incrementally advanced into the press by a dimension that matches the dimension of the successively fed composite sticks that are fed or forced into the feed end of the press. That is, each individual laminated timber product will also be incrementally advanced from the exit of the press to match the dimension of the successively fed composite sticks that are fed into the feed end or entrance of the press.

[0359] The laminated timber product is finished as to its final appearance and / or dimensions (e.g., by running the product through one or more gauges, scales, cutters, etc. to adjust one or more of the length, width, and thickness of the product).

[0360] The products are subjected to product quality parameter specifications (such as minimum strength requirements, minimum bending requirements, or another predetermined physical characteristic of each product so formed), which provide a measure of compliance with the minimum product quality parameters.

[0361] In treating the product, the laminated wood product made from the sequentially arranged layout of lamina may be further exposed to a wood treatment or wood preservative composition. In a first step, the entire laminated wood product is exposed to a wood treatment or preservative composition in a spray booth; and then In a second step, exposing the entire laminated wood product received from the first step by immersing the laminated wood product in a bath of a wood treatment composition; Includes.

[0362] The second step can be used as a conditioning or reconditioning step to increase the relative moisture content of the laminated wood product. The moisture content of the reconditioned product can be from about 7% to about 9% moisture by weight of the product.

[0363] Where in the foregoing description reference has been made to integers or components that have known equivalents thereof, those integers are incorporated herein as if individually set forth.

[0364] Although the present disclosure has been described in terms of specific embodiments, other embodiments apparent to those skilled in the art are also within the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. For example, various components may be rearranged as desired. Moreover, not all features, aspects, and advantages are necessarily required to practice the present disclosure. Accordingly, the scope of the present disclosure is intended to be defined solely by the following claims.

Claims

1. 1. A method for collecting individual sticks obtained from a wood or log source and aggregating a plurality of said individual sticks into groups, comprising: subjecting said sticks to a structural testing or structural probing routine to identify one or more physical parameters or qualities of each individual stick; ascribing a defined value or other quantifier to each individual stick based on said identification of said one or more physical parameters or qualities of said stick within a predetermined range; aggregating sticks of the same specified value or other quantifier together into separate groups; The range, the lower limit of the range, Upper limit of the above range adjusting the predetermined range to vary the specified value attributed to one or more subsequently identified individual sticks by adjusting one or more of the following: the relative proportions of the amounts of sticks collected in each group are sufficient to match the sticks, each stick being a specified value or other quantifier for selectively combining and reassembling sticks from each individual group into a composite stick, the method further including joining end-to-end composite sticks assembled from individual sticks from the same group; Including, An automatic method in which there is a counting or assessment of the number or amount of sticks in each grade, and said adjusting or regulating is performed dynamically to provide a balance or balanced proportion or predetermined proportion of sticks accumulated in each grade as a result of said specified value attributed to each stick.

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein there are more than three groups.

3. 3. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein for each said group, said range is adjusted by adjusting the upper and lower bounds of said defined value or quantifier of a predetermined number of sticks to be received for subsequent processing.

4. 3. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein for each said group, said range is adjusted by adjusting the upper and lower bounds of said defined value or quantifier of a predetermined number of sticks to be received for subsequent processing.

5. 3. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein for each group, the range is adjusted by adjusting the upper and lower bounds of the defined value or quantifier of the sticks in each group, the upper and lower bounds being based on a predetermined number of sticks received for subsequent processing.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the adjusting or tuning is specific for each stick.

7. 6. The method of any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the predetermined number of sticks is a stick count of more than about 10 sticks, or more than about 100 sticks, or more than about 250 sticks, or more than about 500 sticks, or more than about 1,000 sticks, or more than about 2,000 sticks, or more than about 5,000 sticks, or more than about 10,000 sticks.

8. 7. The method of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the adjusting or regulating is based on the number of sticks in the stream of sticks of the last 10 sticks counted, or more than about 100 sticks counted, or more than about 250 sticks, or more than about 500 sticks, or more than about 1,000 sticks, or more than about 2,000 sticks, or more than about 5,000 sticks, or more than about 10,000 sticks counted.

9. 7. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the adjusting or tuning is based on a predetermined period of production or processing, optionally the last 10 minutes, or the last 20 minutes, or the last 30 minutes, or the last 40 minutes, or the last 50 minutes, or the last 60 minutes of production or processing of the stick.

10. 10. The method of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the regulating or adjusting is performed such that each of the individual groups receives a predetermined proportion of the plurality of sticks sourced from the source of wood or logs.

11. The method of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein each group receives the same or similar proportion as the other groups.

12. The method of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein one or more of the groups receive a different or distinct proportion from the other groups.

13. The method of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein one or more of the groups receive the same or similar proportions as other groups.

14. 11. The method of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein at least one of the groups receives a different or divergent proportion of the plurality of sticks, and the remaining groups receive the same or similar proportions as each of the remaining groups.

15. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein each group represents a range of sticks having the same defined value or other quantifier or lying within a predetermined range of the defined value or other quantifier.

16. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the adjusting or regulating is performed dynamically based on a stick count or based on a predetermined number of the sticks.

17. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a plurality of composite sticks are to be assembled, each assembled composite stick being derived from individual sticks from the respective groups.

18. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of individual composite sticks are provided from different or individual groups.

19. 19. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein a first composite stick will be provided from the assembly of sticks from a first group, and a second composite stick will be provided from the assembly of sticks from a second group, and subsequent composite sticks will be provided from the assembly of sticks from specific or individual further groups.

20. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the composite sticks are to be provided as individual lamina of an laminated timber product.

21. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein sticks that do not pass the structural test or structural review routine are discarded or rejected from further use in the method.

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