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101-0637-20L 3 Credits MSC D-USYS , D-BAUG
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Wood processing

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Ingo Burgert, Dr. Marc Schubert, Dr. Sophie Koch
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-06-01 11:30:37

Abstract

The course Wood Processing conveys knowledge on the technological properties of wood and wood-based materials as well as on industrial processes for the fabrication of a vast variety of wood products and covers new developments in the field of digital technologies.

Objective

The learning target is a fundamental understanding of the dominating wood processing chains, which are applied to fabricate common wood products. Students will be introduced to the economic relevance of the renewable resource wood and are trained in its technological properties. The students will learn to identify the relationships between wood species and their properties as well as the suitable wood machining processes to fabricate targeted wood products. Finally, the digital transformation process, which will affect all sectors of the wood industry with an impact on the entire value chain and business models will be covered. It will be illustrated how production processes can become more flexible, efficient and less resource-demanding.

Content

The general introduction shows the economic relevance of the resource wood in a global, European, and Swiss context and reflects aspects of sustainability in wood production. In terms of bulk wood products, a specific focus is laid on sawn timber production and drying processes. Concerning wood veneer production, steaming, veneer cutting, and assembly to veneer lumber products are presented. Further, the common technologies for the production of particle boards and fibre boards will be discussed. Topics related to wood gluing and wood protection as well as potentials and limitations in the application of wood and wood-based products are covered. In a further part, the lecture deals with the most important digital technologies, e.g. Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, and their impact on the wood industry based on illustrative examples.

General Information

Language
English
Levels
MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
oral 30 minutes

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture with exercise Wood processing
  • Wed 13:45-15:30 (HIT J 52)
2 h weekly

Offered In