Modernization of mini-tractor for wood skidding

Abstract

The work was carried out in three directions: changing the rotation system of mini-tractor, installing remote control of the winch and improving the trailer. The modernization of the mini-tractor in all directions was successfully completed, and the research results were patented. Testing of the improved mini-tractor in real working conditions confirmed our expectations. Replacing the rotary mechanism with steering, installing the driver's seat significantly reduced operator fatigue when wood skidding. Remote control of the winch reduced the time of wood loading on the trailer by 1.7 times compared to the option without using it. The total time to perform entire technology cycle from cutting trees to loading them on the trailer, skidding and unloading is decreased by 19.4%. Changing the design of the trailer allows to exclude the turn of the tractor train along the skidroad with penetration into the forest and facilitate the loading of harvested timber. © Published under licence by IOP Publishing Ltd.