Development and evaluation of a novel 3D simulation software for modelling wood stacks

Area of Science:

• Forestry
• Timber Measurement
• Wood Science

Background:

• Accurate solid wood content assessment is vital for stacked roundwood acquisition.
• Current conversion factor methods are influenced by log and stack parameters, lacking broad statistical analysis due to data costs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a 3D simulation model for generating virtual wood stacks.
• To analyze the influence of log and stack parameters on conversion factors using a cost-effective simulation approach.

Main Methods:

• Development of a 3D simulation model generating virtual wood stacks with randomized compositions.
• Evaluation through sensitivity and quantitative analysis using real measurements of 405 Norway spruce logs and 20 stacks.

Main Results:

• The simulation model showed a slight overestimation of net volume (1.2% over bark, 3.2% under bark).
• Gross volume was underestimated by 0.02% (Mean Bias Error).
• Sensitivity analysis confirmed the model's ability to handle input variations and produce reliable outcomes.

Conclusions:

• The 3D simulation model offers a reliable and cost-effective method for assessing solid wood content in stacked roundwood.
• The model adequately accounts for variations in log and stack parameters, improving the accuracy of volume estimations.