Upcycling of High Value Mass Timber Remnant with Advanced Automation

Mass timber architecture is an alternative to traditional construction materials like steel and concrete, offering significant benefits such as atmospheric resource management, renewable sourcing, and energy-efficient manufacturing. However, the industry faces a critical challenge: 10-30% of mass timber material becomes waste during manufacturing, left unused as remnants due to irregular shapes and geometric variability. These remnants, while high-quality, are often discarded, chipped for low-value applications, or left to accumulate, which undermines the environmental and economic benefits of mass timber. Addressing this inefficiency is crucial to maximizing the potential of this innovative construction material.This project offers an automated, technology-driven solution to transform these remnants into valuable architectural components, such as furniture and stair risers. By utilizing vision or LiDAR-based sensors, computational tools for nesting optimization, and CNC machining, the system digitizes material profiles, determines optimal use, and automates production. Integrated robotic systems enhance efficiency by addressing time-consuming processes and improving accuracy in sorting and processing materials. This approach not only reduces waste and but also enhances the economic value of mass timber products, empowering manufacturers to optimize resources more effectively.Developing and deploying this solution will significantly impact the mass timber industry by addressing a key pain point and promoting alternative manufacturing practices. The Phase I effort will demonstrate the technical feasibility of the system, paving the way for broader implementation and scaling in Phase II. This project has the potential to redefine the way mass timber remnants are managed, transforming waste into valuable resources and strengthening the case for mass timber as a cornerstone of construction.