Downsizing of Sugarcane Harvesting and Transportation System on Minami Daitojima and Kita Daitoujima Islands in Okinawa Prefecture

−Effective Model of a Harvesting and Transportation System that Enables Sustainable Sugarcane Production−

Abstract

The downsized model of the sugarcane harvesting and transportation system in Kita Daitojima Island and Minami Daitojima Island was analyzed for its economic efficiency using a simulation method. To advance the replacement of aging machinery, it is advantageous to proceed mainly with large and medium model transportation trucks that also serve as escorting harvesters, or medium models using high-dump type escorting carrying machines. It is possible that the current operational costs can be maintained. Improvement of sugarcane yield and the rate of work would lead to cost reduction, and if there are technologies and mechanisms available that can control the crushing amount per day in the sugar mill, it is likely that a more flexible harvesting and transportation system can be constructed. It is important to increase the throughput of each machine throughout the sugarcane season and to take various countermeasures in the direction of reducing the idling time.