Abstract
We developed a remote control function for a forwarder to reduce labor burden on the driver. The driver canoperate traveling and handling while confirming visual information from the cameras mounted on the forwarder. Furthermore, we added an automated traveling function to the forwarder. After the driver travels once on a strip road, the controller memorizes the linearity of the road and the duration of operation during the trip. At the time of automated travel, the controller reproduces the duration of operation. This duration is revised using global navigation satellite system (GNSS) and pinpointing information from a traveling trace by agitation, such as slips at the time of automated traveling. We conducted a validation test in logging fields using this prototype. With regard to the remote control function, handling and traveling work efficiency decreased when using the remote control in comparison with boarding operation, and drivers confirmed comfort and safety. With regard to the automated traveling function, a control error larger than the width made along the guidelines of the strip road occurred because the traveling function was unable to secure the precise GNSS measurements necessary to revise the control error in a thinning field. These results indicate that locations wherein the device can be used are limited; however, they confirmed a reduced labor burden on the driver.
