Articles and Technical Papers
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Application of Linear Programming to Forest Resource Planning (4 pages)
By Howard A. Leach, Founder
Linear programming (LP) is a widely-used method of determining optimum resource allocation in industrial operations. This paper describes the fundamentals of linear programming modelling and describes its application to forest resource planning. The procedure for model development is discussed, along with typical benefits from LP modelling and practical considerations for successful implementation of an LP model.
SAWSIM® and Linear Programming: A Case Study (6 pages)
Howard A. Leach, Founder
This paper discusses an actual application of SAWSIM® and Linear Programming to optimize the operation and resource allocation of a combined sawmill/pulpmill complex. The development of the model, along with the benefits realized from its application, are discussed.
Optimising Production to Satisfy a Market Requirement (8 pages)
By Alex Rapoport, General Manager, and Brad Turner, Vice-President, HALCO Software Systems Ltd.
This paper discusses application of linear programming techniques to optimize production in mills which must satisfy a strict product mix requirement.
Optimizing the Resource for Several Mills (8 pages)
By Howard A. Leach, Founder
This paper discusses optimizing the resource for several mills and products. It was presented at the Canadian Woodlands Forum Workshop, "Optimizing Softwood Log Quality".
Difficult Decisions
By Scott Jamieson
Published in the Canadian Forest Industries Magazine, April 2001
This is an article about an Operations-Wide Optimization project which was carried out by Weldwood of Canada for its Alberta operations in partnership with HALCO.
Apollo shoots for improvements
By Jim Sterling
Published in Logging and Sawmilling Journal, June 2003
This article describes a mill-upgrade project where “Apollo directed its consulting engineer, Stolberg Engineering of Vancouver, working in concert with HALCO Software Systems Ltd of Vancouver, to develop a projected understanding of the company’s wood basket and analyze existing manufacturing facilities.”
This one of many similar projects that have been carried out by HALCO in partnership with Stolberg Engineering Ltd.
Optimization with a Highly-Constrained Product Mix (3 pages)
By Howard A. Leach, Founder
This article describes an optimization procedure that is suitable for a sawmill that manufactures a wide range of lumber products in volumes that are tightly constrained by market demands.