Sensor data paves the way for new digital feedback systems

A group of Mistra Digital Forest researchers is finding new uses for sensor data collected by forest machines. They aim to build a system that provides feedback on the work of the machine operators.

Method instructors are the people who usually give the machine operator feedback. Researchers at Skogforsk are now investigating whether it is possible to provide digital feedback using the sensors on forestry machines instead. This could improve the working environment and increase productivity in forestry.

After several interviews with method instructors, the researchers have identified common areas for improvement related to the operators' machine use. They have also used sensor data from harvesters and forwarders to develop algorithms that identify the work elements of the forestry machines' operations, from individual crane movements till the grapple grips the logs.

 – We have the algorithms that identify each stage of the work, and an understanding of the optimal - and the less efficient - ways of working associated with each one of these stages. A general example of a less efficient way of working, is that the harvester is too far from the tree to be felled and instead of driving closer, the operator extends the crane completely in order to reach the tree, says Martin Englund, specialist in operating systems, Skogforsk.

Currently, Mistra Digital Forest is continuing the work of reporting the methods for automatic identification of the work elements to the scientific community.

– This lays the foundation for a future project in which we will develop a prototype of what a feedback system of this kind for machine operators might look like, says Martin Englund.