Mathematical Modeling of Forwarder Operation When Collecting Logs in the Forest Swath

Optimization of the machines allows you to increase their productivity and reduce the labor costs for performing individual elements of the technological cycle of their work in the forest. In this regard, the authors offer theoretical studies that take into account the peculiarities of the work of one of the most popular logging machines today, namely, a machine for collecting and forwarding logs (forwarder). The article discusses the technological features of the functioning of these machines, identifies ways to reduce the cost of collecting logs, justifies the rational width of apiaries, which allows collecting logs with a minimum number of movements between work positions. The main purpose of the study is to substantiate the mathematical dependence for determining the rational values of such interrelated parameters of the forwarder's operation as the distance between the working positions of collecting logs and the width of apiaries. The authors propose an analytical approach to solving the problem. On the basis of the standard technological scheme of the harvester's movement through the swath, geometric regularities of the trajectory of the manipulator movement, dimensional characteristics and location of the prepared logs are revealed. As a result of the work, mathematical dependencies are constructed that make it possible to determine the rational values of the desired parameters. The results can be used by research organizations in planning the production process of logging operations. The introduction of author's recommendations into production will contribute to improving the efficiency and operation of forestry equipment.