OVERVIEW OF THE TADPOLE SYSTEM HARDWARE

Tadpole software interfaces with the CLT, HCLT, Computermatic and Dart grading machines for the primary purpose of reading the local-E generated by the grading machine during the grading process. The system was designed to be generally independent of the grading machine type with the only differences being in the hardware and software for the local E reading components. A commonly used hardware arrangement for all the machine types is illustrated below.

The local-E measured by the grading machine is read or received by the main Tadpole PC directly or via an interface/buffer PC. The actual method used depends on the type of grading machine. The HCLT and Dart generate the local-E data in a serial data stream so the arrangement is straightforward and utilizes the standard serial interface of the PC. The CLT and Computermatic require special hardware interfaces.

Operator interaction with the system is via a number of keyboard, video and mouse (KVM) stations located at convenient points around the mill. The main cabinet containing the PC and a KVM can be located near the grading machine or in a more remote location depending on machine type. If a remote position is used then a separate KVM is located near the grading machine. The main KVM is used for setting up timber runs and for running various operator checks on the operation. A KVM can also be located at a point down the grading chain near where samples and calibration sticks can be easily accessed after grading. Another KVM is normally located near the static testing equipment and isused for entering data related to the static testing. Static testing equipment normally consists of a three or four point on-flat bending tester for local-E evaluation and a four point bending proof tester for E & R evaluation. A tension tester is sometimes used as well.

The main Tadpole PC is normally networked to the local area network of the mill for data backup and replication purposes. Replication provides a safe way of enabling process supervisors, internal auditors and management access to the Tadpole database. It is also possible to locate the database on a remote server rather than on the Tadpole PC.

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