McDowell Lumber at Asheboro, NC is adding vision technology to its existing BioLuma Trimmer Optimizer. The company implemented BioLuma sensor technology in 2019 with laser profile sensors in their existing scan frame. Now the company wants to increase its grade recovery and value by replacing the sensors with BioLuma 2900LV units. This upgrade also adds Deep Learning AI technology to the mix.

McDowell processes a mixture of hardwoods into lumber and pallets. The mill trusts USNR‘s experience with vision technology for hardwood production; the optimizer platform is designed to allow for both shop and appearance grade scanning. This technology is scheduled to be installed in mid-2022.