Coraid
The 'Coraid' is an increment borer starter-aid and guide. It is an invaluable device for aborists and foresters that makes taking a tree-core sample much easier, safer and more efficient.
Context
Tree-core samples are widely used by arborists and foresters to gauge how a tree is growing, to determine its age and help assess its physical condition. In some cases it is essential for diagnosing a disease.
Using an increment borer by itself can be cumbersome and time consuming: the roughness, size and shape of the tree stem often make it difficult to get an increment borer to start working.
Operation
The trickiest part of taking a tree-core sample is ensuring that the increment borer cuts cleanly into the trunk. Forest Research’s device, the Coraid, is positioned on the trunk at the desired location and securely fastened using four adjustable points and a ratchet strap.
The inside of the Coraid’s central aperture is lined with a piece of plastic tubing for the borer’s threads to cut into. Compressing this tubing with the central screw provides a stable material to hold the increment borer in place while the core is cut. The grip is still flexible and the user can adjust the compression of the tubing for the circumstances: the greater the compression, the greater the purchase for the borer-threads. The tubing is easily replaced when it wears out.
Once started, the increment borer blade is able to cut cleanly into the tree. It is held securely in place as pressure is applied, ensuring the easy collection of the core sample to the desired depth.
Purchase, licensing and commercial partnership
Forest Research has developed an advanced prototype of the Coraid and applied for a patent for the idea (no. GB 0720308.6). The device is not yet in production but all enquiries regarding purchase, licensing and commercial partnering are welcome.
Further information
Please contact Jane Devlin at:
Forest Research
Alice Holt Lodge
Farnham
Surrey GU10 4LH
Tel: 01420 22255
or:
Forest Research
Northern Research Station
Roslin
Midlothian EH25 9SY
Tel: 0131 445 2176
or:
