TreeRadar - MRI for Trees
... a major step in the application of arboricultural mitigating procedures to prolong the life of trees.
Much like an MRI solves a critical medical need for very high-resolution, non-invasive imaging of the body, the Tree Radar Unit (TRU™) radar imaging system creates the same type of high-resolution, non-invasive image of the internal structure of a tree and its root mass. This image fills a critical gap in the quantitative analysis of tree health and structural integrity. TreeRadar has developed the patented TRU system for tree diagnosis that represents a novel application of ground penetrating radar (GPR) technology. GPR is an established technology that is used worldwide to non-destructively investigate subsurface objects. Here, "subsurface" means "below the bark", i.e., inside the solid wood, or "below the grade", i.e., root bed, for the trunk and subsurface scans, respectively. |
Watch this Video to See how the TRU™ System Works
Visit our TRU System & Software page to view how the TRU™ System works.
Serious Consequences Result from Undetected Tree Decay
Decay entering the tree trunk from the ground (or sometimes advancing down from above) creates an air pocket in the removed wood space. The air pocket can be either a total hollow, or a very early stage of decay where the wood consistency has changed but no visible hollow has yet appeared. The TRU system is sensitive to, and can detect, both conditions, including difficult-to-detect early stage decay. TRU can also detect internal cracks and cracks that have progressed to the outer surface, but are not yet visible. Most trees fall over because of compromised roots. The TRU system can non-invasively inspect soils - either covered or uncovered - to provide images of the layout and density of subsurface structural roots. This new, advanced technology represents a significant economic advantage for companies, individuals, and organizations because more accurate decisions translate to less legal liability, more revenue for tree care companies, and higher customer satisfaction. Owning such a powerful diagnostic tool provides a competitive edge to those companies that recognize the benefits of this cutting-edge technology. |
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By definition, a hazardous or high risk tree is one with a high likelihood of falling onto a "target". The target can either be nearby people or property.
For the homeowner, property values, in many cases, are often significantly affected by the size and health of trees on the property. TRU provides a method for assessing the health of the trees, a valuable asset in the buying/home inspection stage.
The image to the right shows a tree blown over onto a house by Hurricane Isabel on September, 2003 due to compromised roots in Silver Spring, MD.
TreeRadar™ Downloads
Below are links to more information about TreeRadar™ and the TRU™ system.
TRU™ System and Software (PDF)
TreeRadar in Action |
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| TreeRadar in Palm Cove, Australia |
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Saving Trees,
One at a Time.
Saving trees requires knowledge of their internal trunk and subsurface root structure. Many trees with decay can still survive well for many years. But only if the extent of the decay is known and found to be within acceptable safety bounds. TreeRadar’s advanced technology provides the information to help certified arborists make this risk assessment.
The TRU™ System
The TRU™ System is composed of four easy to use devices. The Tablet, Radar Contol Unit and Radar Antenna are used together for trunk scanning, and the Scanning Cart is added for root scanning.
Radar Antenna
Scanning Cart
TRU™ System and Software (PDF)