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MPM Primary
Breakdown Optimization


MPM's NextGen optimization process find the optimal cutting solution for a complete range of log sizes and lengths. The fitting process uses X-Y or 3-D profile model of the scanned log to find the best combination of boards from a defined set of products. Either product value or recovery factor can drive the optimization process while allowing product order management.

A single-screen product definition is used to describe the characteristics of any given board (nominal description, physical dimensions and wane rules, allowed lengths and associated dollar value). Up to three wane zones can be defined within the board's length, each with different dimensional specifications (compound wane rules). the user sets up cutplans by setting up a machine configuration and selecting the desired boards.

The NextGen optimization fits the defined products into the profile model of the scanned log and employs a logical sequence of product fitting to evaluate all the possible solutions at machine allowed positions. First boards in the cutplan are sorted by their allowable placement (cant, bottom, top or sideboard). Then all these boards are fitted into their respective positions taking into account the machine's limitations and other restrictions set by the user. The user can set priorities to specific products for a variety of reasons including volume and value, but could also put a priority on sizes that are presently on order in the sawmill. Once all allowed board combinations and positions are tried, the best solution is reported to the programmable logic controller (PLC) and saved in report databases.


Primary Breakdown Graphic


  • Employs various scanning technologies:
    1. with a light curtain scanner which reports diameter and offset where an elliptical data set is used to best represent each scan;
    2. with sophisticated laser profiling scanners which report actual points on a log's surface where a more accurate map of the log can be prepared.
  • Flexible design: select the scanning system (including Hermary Opto X-Y, LMI/Dynavision, Hermary Opto Laser Profile LPS) and machine control PLC brand of your choice (Allen-Bradley, Modicon, GE, Siemens), all of which work equally well with the MPM optimizer.
  • Detailed product descriptions with graphical representations for over 1000 products.
  • Product fit in a real-time optimization process that uses a profile log model for the product fit search and produces a full 3-D graphic showing the log surface with complete solution or individual board view.
  • Optimization can be selected on price or volume while allowing product priority to attain specific production requirements.
  • Simulation feature allows for off-line analysis of 3-D log and cant images, allowing for fine-tuning of settings.
  • Mill applications: Sharp Chain, Standard Chip-N-Saw, shifting and skewing extended length infeed, end dogging and Eurpean styles of breakdown.
  • Configurable Crystal ReportsTM reporting.
  • Hardware platform: rack-mounted Intel-based processor with Microsoft Windows NTTM operating system on an Ethernet network, integrated machine monitoring and set-up, high resolution 19-inch monitor, laser printer and industrial enclosure with integral UPS.
  • Graphical and easy-to-use Microsoft Windows NTTM operating system supporting multiple processors, with high-resolution 3-D graphics and fully internationalized (Imperial or Metric)

    • Please contact Timbertech for further information on MPM systems.

    More information can be found at MPM Engineering's website www.mpmeng.com

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