Method and apparatus for selecting trees for harvest
AssigneeThe Johns Hopkins University
InventorDavid W. Blodgett
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Abstract
A method for selecting trees for harvest according to a predetermined criterion is provided which includes at least the steps of applying a vibrative member to the tree, vibrating the vibrative member, determining the resonance properties of the vibrative member, calculating an observed quality factor associated with the vibrative member vibrations, and, comparing the observed quality factor with a predetermined relationship between the quality factor and the tree selection criterion. A portable tree probe, suitable for field use, is also provided.
Claims22
A method for selecting trees according to a predetermined criterion, comprising the steps of:
- a) applying a vibrative member to the tree, the vibrative member being characterized by mechanical vibration resonance properties;
- b) vibrating the vibrative member;
- c) determining the resonance properties of the vibrative member;
- d) calculating an observed quality factor associated with the vibrative member vibrations;
- and,
- e) comparing the observed quality factor with a predetermined relationship between the quality factor and the tree selection criterion.
A tree probe comprising:
- a) a vibrative member having a wood-penetrating end portion characterized by at least one resonance frequency of mechanical vibration;
- b) means for vibrating the vibrative member at about the resonance frequency of the wood-penetration end portion;
- and,
- c) means for measuring vibration amplitude across a frequency range sufficient to determine a characteristic Q value.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.