An Interactive Simulation System for Modeling Stands, Harvests, and Machines
Authors
Jingxin Wang
The University of Georgia, Athens, GA U.S.A.
W. Dale Greene
The University of Georgia, Athens, GA U.S.A.
Abstract
An interactive computer simulation program models stand, harvest, and machine factors and evaluates their interactions while performing felling, skidding, or forwarding activities. A stand generator allows the user to generate either natural or planted stands. Felling with chainsaw, drive-to-tree feller-bunchers, or harvesters and extraction with grapple skidders or forwarders are currently modeled in the system and others may be added. Simulations are performed by moving machine images within stand maps on the computer screen. The residual stand, machine running paths, and extraction travel intensity are recorded for later analysis. Examples of simulations with common logging machines are illustrated.
