Abstract
To improve labor productivity, we developed an unmanned work system for the logging process in the form of an automated traveling forwarder. As the vehicle does not require a driver for a large part of operating time without reduction in the amount of production, thus resulting in increased labor productivity. The prototype has three features: 1) Traveling on a strip road and the unloading process are automated, whereas the loading of logs from a felling site is performed by workers. 2) The vehicle has an automated traveling function that uses an electromagnetic induction system, which allows switchback driving so that existing strip roads can be used. 3) By making it possible to automatically travel at the same speed as when an operator is driving, working efficiency is not reduced. The result of conducting a logging operation test using the prototype confirmed that the time required for manned work processes such as loading from felling sites was about one-third of the day. In addition, the prototype vehicle was able to travel accurately without the need to widen the existing strip road. However, it was also confirmed that a prototype equipped with an unloading mechanism will require a larger yard to store the logs because it cannot make piles. The present study showed that the unmanned logging using an automatic traveling forwarder have possibility to improve labor productivity. Further researches on automatic loading systems and ancillary work such as laying electric wires for unmanned operation are necessary.
