Controlled sliding of logs through plastic chutes on the forest ground

Abstract

In forestry, wood extracting activities which is a main stage between forest harvesting and transportation activities are very expensive, difficult and time consuming activities. Skidding of heavy and large-diameter logs on the ground from stump to the roadside landings is a complicated process. Besides, this activity brings.up some environmental, economic and ergonomic problems. In this study, it is suggested to apply a new system which provides controlled sliding of logs through plastic chutes to overcome these problems. This system works both by yarding the heavy logs uphill using a drummed engine and by sliding them downhill with controlled brake system in plastic or fiberglass chutes located on forest ground. Such a system can be used within 300 m yarding distances by a portative drummed engine mechanism or by a drummed forest tractor operating from a roadside. In case of the necessity, the yarding distance of the system can be increased by installing additional consecutive chutes. It is expected some advantages from this system with respect to its economical viability, applicability, and efficiency in forestry activities. Furthermore, the system might decrease damages on residual trees and seedlings, and ensure workers' safety and enable to harvest forest products in the logging sites where installation of modern harvesting equipment is not economically feasible. Quality and quantity damages to carried logs and environmental damages to forest ecosystem can be minimized by using this semi-mechanical system. This system has also some operational advantages by establishing on any terrain conditions, by yarding uphill and downhill, and by decreasing work accidents.