3D views of some optimal log cutting patterns

Problem Statement: Given a log find the "best way" to cut it up into boards. The first cut determines the vertical cant stack of 2x4's and perhaps a 1x4 on top. There can also be possibly one or two side flitchs of 2x4's, 2x6's or 1x4's on either side. The flitchs can have a 2x4(2x6) over another 2x4(2x6). Careful inspection shows that the corners are not always in the log, there is a wane allowance for each board.

In all the drawings the "rings" are diameter cross-sections of the log at 2 foot intervals (the length scale is 1/12 that of the other two directions). The minimum length for a piece of lumber is 8 feet, and only 2x4's, 2x6's or 1x4's are allowed in the solution. SED stands for small-end diameter (or far-end diameter for real logs).

You need a viewer that supports Sun's Java Applets to see these guys.
There are both beta (Netscape 2.0) and alpha3 (Hot Java) versions of these applets now.
It may take a second or two for the log to load for the first time.

• log0 An idealized log with high taper. SED is 6 inches, length is 12 feet.
• log1 An idealized log with slight taper. SED is 5 inches, length is 12 feet.
• log2 A real log banana shaped with horns up. SED 9.2 inches, length 16 feet.
• log3 A real log skewed from center. SED 9.0 inches, length 10 feet.
• log4 A real log with short boards at each end. SED 9.5 inches, length 16 feet.
• log5 A real log banana shaped with horns sideways. SED 6.7 inches, length 20 feet.
• log6 A bigger real log. SED 10.3 inches, length 20 feet.
• log7 A real log with an interesting solution. Note the side flitch board trades sides. SED 7.6 inches, length 20 feet.
• log8 A real log with some obviously bad data.

Download "Java 2" from Sun.

Last Update 6 Jan 1999