Using Dynamic Programming to Obtain Efficient Kiln-drying Schedules

Authors

  • Giuseppe Rensi
  • Andrés Weintraub

Keywords:

Kiln drying, optimization, dynamic programming

Abstract

This paper outlines a method for determining kiln-drying schedules that is based on the optimization technique of dynamic programming. The method is described with reference to the kiln drying of cedar pencil slats, but could be extended, with appropriate adjustments, to the kiln drying of other wood materials.

References

Abramovitz, M., and I. A. Stegun, eds. 1964. Handbook of mathematical tables. U.S. Dept. of Commerce. National Bureau of Standards. AMS 55.nBramhall, G. 1976. Semi-empirical method to calculate the kiln-schedule modifications for some lumber species. Wood Sci. 8(4):213-222.nClaxton, H. D. 1968. A dynamic programming decision model and computer simulation of the cedar pencil slat drying process. Ph.D. dissertation, Agricultural Economics, University of California, Berkeley.nDreyfus, S., and A. Law. 1977. The art and science of dynamic programming. Academic Press, NY. 284 pp.nGorvad, M. R., and D. G. Arganbright. 1979. Development of kiln drying schedule severity indices for degrade control. Parts 1 and 2. Wood Sci. Technol. 13:137-152, 197-209.nGorvad, M. R., E. J. Subelman, A. Weintraub, and D. G. Arganbright. 1978. Use of dynamic programming to optimize kiln schedules. Technical Report 35.01.200, University of California Forest Products Laboratory.nRensi, G., and A. Weintraub. 1976. Optimal schedules in kiln drying through dynamic programming. Final Report on U.C. Coop Agreement 21-354. PWS Station. Forest Service, Berkeley, California.nRensi, G., and A. Weintraub., 1984. Computation of efficient kiln drying schedules through dynamic programming. Working Paper 84-13. Dept. of Industrial Engineering, University of Chile.nRensi, G., and J. Rhemrev. 1976. A statistical approach to product quality evaluation of kiln-dried pencil slats. Forest Prod. J. 26(12):42-43.n

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Published

2007-06-22

Issue

Number 2 / April 1988

Section

Research Contributions

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