Tree-climbing Research Articles

Design and Analysis of Coconut Tree Climbing Bike Using Reverse Engineering Technique

Coconut trees have hard-shelled fruits that grow as high as eight meters to 30m. It is one of the most important crops in the world. Coconut is considered as a healthy food and is used in a various foods and medicine. In this research, a coconut tress climbing bike was designed using reverse engineering technique based on availableinternet media resources. This research aims to solve the problem faced by most climbers who do not have thecomplete equipment and technology to climb coconut trees. Throughout the investigation and analysis,references based on Ganapathi Bhat’s climbing bike design were studied to obtain the necessary informationincluding load capacity, weight, price, size and estimated speed. Simulation and engineering analysis is made using SolidWorks software to evaluate specification. Based on the analysis and simulation result, this design is able to support and carry a user weighing 80kg to climb a coconut tree. The maximum speed of a coconut tree climbing bike is estimated at 0.6m/s. The coconut tree climbing bike design has a size of 717mm(L) x 539mm(W) x 415mm(H) and its estimated weight is 29.7kg. The selling price of this bike is estimated to be approximate RM 3500. This project is expected to provide information to the readers to obtain the coconut tree climbing bicycle technology that has already been in the small regional market in India. Hence, hopefully this research can help tointroduce this technology in more detail to the Malaysia universities and citizens.

Structural Design and Simulation Analysis of Quadruped Tree Climbing Robot

Aiming at the problems of large size and complex structure of the existing tree-climbing robot, a new structure of the quadruped tree-climbing robot is designed based on the structure of the existing quadruped tree-climbing robot. We established a mathematical model using robotics, and carried out a positive kinematics analysis of the overall structure. The finite element simulation analysis of the key components and the simulation and verification of the transmission core components are carried out. The overall structure of the redesigned four-legged tree climbing robot is simple, weight, small endurance, high endurance and high finite element results show the grasping mechanism The reasonable stress distribution of the frame design is more uniform, and the robot has strong stability in the process of climbing trees.

Portable Coconut Tree Climbing Device and its Analysis

Portable Coconut Tree Climbing Device and its Analysis

Development of an Ergonomic, Portable, Climber-Propelled Date Tree Climbing Device

ABSTRACT In the most of main date fruit producer regions, including Iran, date palm crown access operation is still performed traditionally. The date plantation workers need to climb date trees. This may cause an unsafe condition, which increases the risk of fall from height. It is also associated with ergonomic and health problems. The present study aimed to develop a date tree climber device (DTCD) covering all aspects of safety, ergonomics and efficiency. A primary model of the DTCD was structured and modified based on a review of existing devices, a field investigation and an unstructured interview with 20 farmworkers. Participants rated their comfort, perceived pain and discomfort as well as exertion levels when using the DTCD compared to a traditional device (Parband). In total, eight key elements were suggested for the desired device. More than 60% of the participants reported that the DTCD was comfortable/very comfortable compared to Parband. Additionally, DTCD could significantly reduce the pain and discomfort of the back (p < .001), knees (p = .001) and Ankles/feet (p = .01). However, no significant difference was found between devices when the physical exertion was compared through Borg’s RPE scale and heart rate analysis. The results of regression analysis showed that the DTCD users perceived lower exertion as the body weight increased (β = −0.18, p = .013). The signs of musculoskeletal disorders, pain and discomfort were strongly reduced among DTCD users and safety aspects improved, generally by reducing discomfort and physical exertion.

Tensile Strength of Ropes and Friction Hitch Used in Tree Climbing Work

Tree climbing techniques for arboriculture are becoming more and more popular, but like any work activity, there are risks for the operator. The PPE (personal protective equipment) and protective systems studied here include semi-static ropes and friction hitches. The work rope/friction hitch system is a combination that many operators rely on, but unlike current mechanical rope clamps and descenders, they do not have European certifications. For this reason, tensile tests were carried out using a traction bench on rope/knot systems. Two rope models and two types of knots were used to stress the systems and materials as much as possible, so as to observe the resulting ratios. A total of 36 tests were carried out in which measurements were taken, including applied load in traction, knot creep, and rope diameter changes. Several results were obtained, including a maximum load of 18.7 kN, a maximum slip of 9.6 cm and a maximum diameter variation of 3 mm. This work represents a preliminary investigation for verifying the relationship between work ropes and friction knots. Relationships among the variables were observed; differences emerged mainly as a function of the type of knot used rather than the type of rope used. The data obtained is also important for applications towards improving preventative safety measures.

Design and Fabrication of Areca-nut Tree Climbing, Plucking and Spraying Machine

Design and Fabrication of Areca-nut Tree Climbing, Plucking and Spraying Machine

RETRACTED ARTICLE: ERTC: an Enhanced RSSI based Tree Climbing mechanism for well-planned path localization in WSN using the virtual force of Mobile Anchor Node

In this paper, an Enhanced RSSI Tree Climbing (ERTC) technique is proposed to design a well-planned path based localization using virtual force of Mobile Anchor Node (MAN) in Wireless Sensor Network (WSN). The MAN is equipped with both Omni directional and directional antennae. Since an Omni directional antenna used for broadcasting the message and directional antenna is used for receiving the messages. This proposed technique is used to identify the trajectory of the MAN with the virtual force of unknown nodes in the network. Further, the circum center algorithm is used to identify the location of unknown sensor node. The proposed technique is implemented in the NS2 simulation. Simulation results shows that an ERTC achieves lower path length and better localization accuracy with the existing trajectories HILBERT space filling curve, Z trajectory, Swarm intelligence path planning techniques Grey wolf optimizer (GWPP) and Whale Optimizer based Path Planning (WOPP). The efficacy of node coverage in ERTC is compared with the Improved Virtual Force Algorithm (IVFA). The coverage analysis of ERTC shows better results by using virtual force of unknown node than IVFA.

Design and Fabrication of Coconut Tree Climbing and Harvesting Machine

Design and Fabrication of Coconut Tree Climbing and Harvesting Machine

The International Symposium on Arboriculture in the Tropics: Securing Ecosystem Functions in Urban Landscape

PREFACETrees have been considered for ages as ones of the key and substantial elements in urban landscape. Thus, the surrounding society‘s involvement in raising awareness to look after the trees as oxygen and nutrients provider is undoubtedly important, for the sake of welfare of mankind and the rest of creatures n Earth. Besides, the continuation of research related to trees in urban areas requires decent governance, which is associated to regulation, stakeholders’ participations and arboriculture development aspect. By initiating The International Symposium on Arboriculture in the Tropics: Securing ecosystem functions in urban landscape (ISATrop2017), wishfully information can be collectively obtained whilst strengthening commitment of actors in regard of the importance of trees’ role in urban ecosystem as well as a supportive conducts on actualizing environmental---friendly cities’ establishment in tropical areas.The International Symposium on Arboriculture in the Tropics (ISATrop2017) that was held on November 21st, 2017, was attended by 3 (three) keynote speakers i.e. Prof. Ahmad Ainuddin Nuruddin (Malaysian Society of Arborist, University Putra Malaysia, Malaysia), Prof. Emer. Ko Harada (Faculty of Agriculture, Ehime University, Japan), and Mr. Daniel C. Burham (Senior Arboriculture Researcher at Centre of Urban Greenary and Ecology (CUGE), National Park Board, Singapore). Moreover, two invited speakers i. e Mr. Chew Guan Yu and Koh Eu Jin from CSK Landscape Services, Singapore were also presented in oral presentation session and 1 (one) instructor i.e Mr. Goh Mia Chun (Principal Arborist/Tree Surgeon at CSK Landscape Services, Singapore) was presented in Tree Climbing Demonstration and Tryout Station session.List of Program Committee, Organizing Committee and Photographs are available in this PDF.

Loading experienced by a tie-in point during ascents

Working in trees is an inherently dangerous profession, with a higher than average fatality rate. Climbers secure themselves with a rope and harness to a tie-in point to ascend into and work in a tree, but it can be difficult—if not impossible—to assess the safety of a tie-in point from the ground. Very little experimental work has described the loads associated with ascending into and working in trees, but it is critical to understand them to assess safety. We measured loads induced by competitors in the ascent event at the International Tree Climbing Competition and analyzed their amplitude and frequency. We also measured the sway frequency of a small sample of tie-in points. Load time histories revealed repeated cycling between maximal and minimal impulse loads at a particular frequency as competitors ascended. After accounting for competitors’ weight, ascending using a single foot ascender induced greater loads than footlocking or using two foot ascenders. Footlocking induced loads at a lower frequency than using two foot ascenders. Although the loading frequency for all techniques was higher than the first natural sway frequency of tie-in points, the atypically large tie-in point used during the ascent event precludes extrapolation to tie-in points of typical size. Since there are very few data to quantify loads during an ascent, and many other relevant aspects to quantify in order to estimate the likelihood of failure of a tie-in point, the results will be useful to future studies.

A Novel Robotic Tree Climbing Mechanism With Anti-Falling Functionality for Tree Pruning

This paper presents a novel mechanism of tree climbing robotic system for tree pruning. The unique features of this system include the passive and active anti-falling mechanisms, which prevent the robot from falling to the ground under either static or dynamic situations, the capability to vertically or spirally climb up a tree trunk, and the flexibility to suit different trunk sizes. The computer-aided design (CAD) models of the robotic mechanism, static and kinematic analysis, climbing simulation, and testing of the physical model are stated in detail. This research work reveals that this novel tree climbing mechanism can be served as a platform for tree pruning robot.

Tree‐climbing goats disperse seeds during rumination

Tree‐climbing goats disperse seeds during rumination

Autonomous Control and Implementation of Coconut Tree Climbing and Harvesting Robot

Last few decades have witnessed a rapid development in robotic technology. Different types of intelligent machines which facilitate various tasks in industry environment are becoming popular. This paper focuses on designing a low cost coconut tree climbing and harvesting robot. The kinematics and the motion of the robot are designed by referring to the motion of coconut harvester. The robot consists of two segments joined by a pair of threaded rods coupled to motors. The mechanical frame is designed in draft sight software and is implemented using aluminum segments and threaded rods. It has two arms driven by motors for holding. Locomotion of the robot is achieved using six motors out of which four motors are used in two hands and other two are used for upward and downward motion. The other part is a robotic arm for cutting down the coconuts. The robotic arm is attached on top of the climbing part. The operation of the cutting arm is done manually from the ground using a remote. The robot is automated using Arduino-Uno, motor H-bridge drivers, current and level sensors and other supporting circuits. The forward and the reverse motion of the motors are controlled by the Arduino through driver modules. Robot has automatic and manual functions fully controlled by the end-user. This paper has taken into account of the safety, reliability and the ease of use. A locomotion algorithm is developed to provide the robot with an autonomous capability for climbing. The prototype of the robot is implemented and tested successfully.

Compatibility of Toothed Ascenders with Arborist Climbing Ropes

Climbers are increasingly using ascenders to access trees, both as a substitute for Prusik loops used in footlocking a doubled rope and with the single rope technique. Manufacturers, however, have explicit limitations on use of ascenders, many of which are violated when used in tree climb-ing. Ascenders were tested on four arborist climbing ropes in a dynamic drop test; impact load and arrest distance were measured. Of 67 tests, arrest distance met the EN 12841-2006 Standard (≤2 m) only 10 times. Impact loads averaged more than five kN, adding a backup friction hitch to the as-cender increased impact load to more than six kN. Climbers need to be made aware of the appropriate use of ascenders, and only use compatible ropes.

1A2-A21 街路樹剪定作業支援のための木登りロボットWOODY-2の開発 : 把持力調整機能の実装と評価

1A2-A21 街路樹剪定作業支援のための木登りロボットWOODY-2の開発 : 把持力調整機能の実装と評価

1A2-D07 街路樹登りロボットWOODY-2の開発

1A2-D07 街路樹登りロボットWOODY-2の開発

Recreational tree-climbing programs in a rural Japanese community forest: Social impacts and “fun factors”

We examined whether recreational tree climbing (TC) activities would have positive social impacts and rejuvenate an outdoor activity center and surrounding community forest in central Japan. Our case study comprised 3800 adults and children participating in TC activities at the Jyokoji Outdoor Activity Center (JOAC) in Seto, Japan. We focused on 1393 adult participants whom we considered to be the decision makers regarding family recreation, and we explored both the social impacts of TC and various factors that contributed to and distracted from the overall experience. Qualitative and quantitative data indicated that elements such as age, gender, tree preferences, tree appreciation, tree education, and technical instruction influenced the enjoyment of recreational TC and the positive effects on tree climbers. Overall, the climbing program had positive social impacts for the community forest and contributed to local conservation initiatives. Our case study suggests that other areas can benefit from incorporating TC programs into community forest planning to complement aesthetic, ecological, and restoration benefits and provide a new venue for recreation and conservation awareness.

ALL-N-023 森林作業支援システムの開発 : 木登りロボットWOODY(NEDO次世代ロボット実用化プロジェクト(プロトタイプ開発支援事業),生活を支援するロボメカ技術のメガインテグレーション)

ALL-N-023 森林作業支援システムの開発 : 木登りロボットWOODY(NEDO次世代ロボット実用化プロジェクト(プロトタイプ開発支援事業),生活を支援するロボメカ技術のメガインテグレーション)

Tree Climbing Strategies for Primate Ecological Studies

Primate ecological studies can benefit from accessing the canopy to estimate intra-tree and inter-tree variation in food availability and nutrient value, patch and subpatch depletion, foraging efficiency, as well as nest structure and nesting behaviors, parasitic transmission and predator detectability. We compare several ways to access the canopy and examine their suitability for studies of primates. Two of them—the Single Rope Technique and the Climbing Spur Method—allow people to safely access almost all kinds of trees, regardless of their size, height or shape. Modern climbing gear and contemporaneous safety protocols, derived from rock climbers, speleologists, and industrial arborists, are reliable and appropriate for primate ecological studies. Climbing gear is specialized and still expensive for students, but tree climbing can be dangerous during specific maneuvres. Consequently, formal training and preliminary experience are essential before attempting to collect data. We discuss the physics of falling, risk assessment associated with a fall, knots, gear and safety precautions. Finally, we propose a Tree Climbing Safety Protocol adapted for 2 climbing methods and primate field ecology. Researchers should be aware that climbing safety depends on their own judgment, which must be based on competent instruction, experience, and a realistic assessment of climbing ability. Therefore, the information we provide should be used only to supplement competent personal instruction and training in situ. Although most primate

Tree-climbing with dinosaurs

Tree-climbing with dinosaurs