Effective Collaboration Research Project on IT Solution for Automatic Measurement of Timber Assortment

Abstract

This paper deals with experience about the research project development with industry for the solution of specific problem. Nowadays most of higher educational institutions are particularly interested in implementing joint projects with industry, sharing experiences and resources to jointly develop new technologies and innovative products. In the University of Latvia within the framework of an effective collaboration projects program, a mutually beneficial shared cost system for the needs of scientists and businessmens is possible for solving the tasks of the both partners. Joint Stock Company Latvias State Forests were interested in development of an automatic volume measurement of logs and wood chip loads on trucks. To solve this problem, a methodology and a technological solution are needed to allow remotely perform volumetric surveys and monitoring. It is significant with the intense development of forest and logging industry. The system consists of measurement arch with video cameras and IT solution - video processing and analysis software, a graphical user interface, data communication channels and storage systems. Video information is obtained from cameras that simultaneously acquire raw data from the object of the video processing area - both sides and top. The information is transmitted to the external systems via data communication channels. The system will be used for automated volume measurement because in Latvia this process is currently performed by persons who manually measure loaded logs or wood chips on the trucks.

Keywords

• prototype
• volume measurement
• it solution
• an effective collaboration project
• timber assortment