Abstract
The tram-car was developed to mechanize forestry work and to improve safety in steep mountains. This machine utilizes rail-support system to transport workers, machines, materials, and wood in the forest. The features of this machine include three-wheel drive (3WD), hydraulic driving gear system, water-cooled 4-cycle, 3-cylinder diesel engine with a modified deep oil pan, fail-safe system, two rails (main-rail and sub-rail) and a prefab rail method. We confirmed satisfactory safety through performance tests on traction, braking and rail intensity. Then, we constructed tram-cars in Higashishirakawa Village and Shirotori Town in Gifu Prefecture, and investigated the construction work. Work element analysis showed that workers spend much time removing obstacles, adjusting rail position and waiting. This indicated the necessity of mechanization and greater efficiency for the construction work. In addition, the main factors affecting work efficiency were the angle of inclination in the case of no obstacles and the obstacle removal when there are obstacles. Finally a comparison of the construction efficiency among tram-car, mono-rail and forest road showed that tram-car is useful in steep mountains.
