Project data

## Simple Forest Densiometer

Project Developed by Brian Swanson User:Btswanso


## Abstract

• The forest densiometer provides a practical, objective way to measure the density of tree canopy. This tool removes all guess work out of determining canopy cover, which is a very useful metric for foresters and construction companies looking to predict how much foliage and tree removal must be done in an specified area.

## Proper Use

1. Align grid to the portion of canopy you wish to measure.
2. Hold stationary, it is highly encourage to use a tripod with the associated mounts.
3. Count the number of square holes filled over 50%, this number will be the density percentage of the canopy.

## Bill of Materials

1. The essential material needed to create this densiometer is 44 grams of PLA plastic. At an average price of $25 per kilogram, this part costs$1.10.
2. This part has optional mounting 6 mm bolts. A pair of these approximately cost $1.50. A pair of matching 6 mm nuts will add an additional 25 cents to the bill. ## Tools Required for Fabrication 1. One 3-D printer capable of printing a 102 mm by 102 mm by 20 mm component. ## Required Skills and Knowledge 1. Ability to operate a 3-D printing device. ## Printing and Assembly #### Printing • The print is a single component that takes approximately one hour and fifteen minutes to print. It requires approximately 44 grams of plastic. #### Assembly • For mounting, simply place 6 mm bolts into holes on outside flanges and use nuts to fasten to whatever mount you desire. #### Common Troubleshooting • To remain accurate and objective, clean grid lines are a necessity. Proper calibration is a must, along with with minimal peel up. If peel up occurs, this may be limited with application of a glue stick to the print bed or use of a heated print bed. ## Estimated Savings • On the low end, a densiometer typically costs around$100. Thus, this print at its highest cost with attachments renders a savings of 97.15%.
Page data
Type Project 3d printing, forestry, densiometer, foliage coverage, plastic SDG11 Sustainable cities and communities, SDG15 Life on land Brian Swanson, Kathy Nativi 2014 CC-BY-SA-3.0 MTU, Michigan_Tech's_Open_Sustainability_Technology_Lab English (en) 749 No main image Brian Swanson, Kathy Nativi (2014). "Simple Forestry Densiometer". Appropedia. Retrieved August 10, 2022.
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