The PiCUS Sonic Tomograph analyses sonic waves in order to draw conclusions of the wood’s inner structure. In solid wood, sonic waves propagate fast. Defects within the wood interfere with the propagation of the waves and lead to lower calculated velocities. The different recorded velocities are displayed in varying colors in the tomogram.

The PiCUS Sonic Tomograph is used for detailed road safety examinations on trees in order to assess the inner condition of trunks with hollows or fungi. Sonic tomographic measurements are particularly common in the area near the base of trees, additionally PiCUS Sonic Tomograms also provide valuable information on pruning wounds and branch forks when diagnosing trees.

A 2D image is calculated from the measured speeds and geometrical information on the measuring level.

The graphic representation displays areas with different transit times in different colors. In this way, not only can a distinction be made between intact and defective, but gradations in the degree of decomposition can also be recognized.

The associated PiCUS-Expert-Software enables the creation of 3D graphics using different tomographic measuring levels. This allows the spread of the damage to be shown vividly and inserted into a photo of the tree.

PiCUS Sonic Tomograph functional scope:

Sensors: Depending on the version, 6 or 12 sensors
Measuring points: : Up to 24 measuring points without a PC. Max 99 measuring points with a PC
Display: Preview of the tomogram on the integrated graphic display
Connection: Bluetooth for PC connection, GPS for determining the position of the tree

The measuring principle:

The PiCUS sonic tomograph analyzes the condition of the wood of a tree with the help of sound signals. The instrument measures the transit time of sound waves in wood with high precision, which are generated by lightly tapping with an electronic hammer. If there is a defect between the knock point and the sensor (receiver), the sound waves have to travel a longer distance, which can be measured by a longer sound propagation time. Taking into account the geometrical information of the measuring plane, sound velocities are calculated, which are displayed in an acoustic tomogram. The highest determined speed is displayed in dark brown color, lower speeds in different colors. Since the speed of sound correlates with the static properties of the wood, it can serve as a measure of the resistance to breakage of the wood. For example, it is possible to use the PiCUS sonic tomogram to determine the remaining wall thickness of hollow tree trunks or the spread of fungal defects. The area of the cross-section that is most severely decomposed is shown in blue, the lowest speed in this tomogram. In contrast, the intact wood appears in a dark brown color. Stages between healthy and decomposed wood appear in color gradations.

Standard scope of delivery:

• Transport case
• Control unit
• Sensor chain with 6 sensors (left)
• Sensor chain with 6 sensors (right)
• Radio hammer with display for PST 3
• Q74 Expert 3D with photo overlay functionality
• Hammer cable
• 4x belt clips
• USB cable
• 2x lashing belt / tensioning belt 4.5 m, 25 mm
• Charger
• BM 50 G tape measure
• Soft-faced hammer 300 mm
• Nail / screw container
• Number set 1 to 24
• USB stick with software
• Operating instructions
• PiCUS bag
• PRHD tapping cable with tapping pin (pluggable)
• PRHD antenna cable

All purchases of PICUS technology comes with installation and training in the UK and ongoing lifetime support