Reasoning of Tree Cross Sections Oval Shaping while Growing with an Inclination

Abstract

It is known that it is possible to determine the age of a tree and the conditions for its growth by some external features. These features include the number of annual layers on the tree trunk cross section, the correct geometric shape of these layers. The stem taper indicates where this tree grew: in an overstocked stand or in open areas. The oval shape of the cross sections of the trunk is common to the trees with irregular crown or grown inclined to the horizon. A powerful external action of a prevailing wind load influences on the cross sections shaping of tree trunks. Trunk, crown and corresponding cross-breaking strength and compression resistance along the wood fibers of a tree are formed in response to all external influences during its growth. The collaborative effect of these factors is the size, shape and location of the core and sapwood zones in the tree trunks, on which the strength, density, and location of wood defects are dependent, and which affect the quality of wood products in-service. The authors chose the initial stress formed during the tree growth as a uniform criterion for assessing the influence of the natural features of wood on the quality and strength of wooden building structures. The value of which can be fairly estimated by the size and shape of the core and sapwood zones of the tree trunks cross sections. The size and shape of these zones can be measured by scanning. The log sawing pattern should be selected using appropriate computer software that allow obtaining the high-quality sawn timber for the construction purposes. The research purpose is to develop a method for determining the size and shape of the core and sapwood zones of the tree trunk sections that have a natural curvature and grow vertically or with an inclination to the horizon; and what is more, to substantiate the connection between the shape and size of the tree trunk oval sections with the initial stresses developing during growth and the wood strength under tension, compression along the fibers and static bending.