Research

This research project deals with the dynamics of tree anchors used to secure skylines and guy lines of cable-based yarding systems. The holding capacity of these anchors is crucial for work safety and efficiency, yet it is difficult to estimate due to its high variability. Current monitoring approaches rely on measuring tree movement. A particular focus is placed on multiple-anchor configurations, where two or more trees are combined. In such cases, assessing holding capacity becomes even more complex, and scientific knowledge is lacking regarding the distribution of dynamic forces—especially when using haul-back or diversion pulleys. Using high-resolution measurement systems, the project will record force distribution and tree responses under realistic working conditions. The study will examine both direct cable configurations and setups involving diversion pulleys. The results will provide key parameters for future monitoring systems, create a basis for calculation tools, and support the development of training materials.

The Lower Austrian cooperation project “Autonomous Drone Flight Along Forest Roads” aims to develop an autonomous drone solution that efficiently and safely flies along forest roads to collect real-time forestry data. With the help of advanced sensors, GPS and artificial intelligence, obstacles are detected and environmental conditions are analyzed to ensure safe and precise navigation. The drones support the monitoring and maintenance of forest roads by documenting road conditions, identifying potential hazards and optimizing the use of human resources. This project contributes to increasing efficiency and digitizing forestry.

In this project, novel scenarios are tested and evaluated, and work is done on how to bring "common sense" into robots. The approach followed is "human-in-the-loop", combining the advantages of human experts with the advantages of AI. Specifically, this project tests and evaluates deployment scenarios of robots in forestry technology and presents new deployment scenarios. The novelty of this approach allows us to explore basics in terms of requirements, challenges and future possibilities in dealing with such systems, thus paving the way for more advanced basic projects or applications. Specifically, this project is expected to result in a series of international publications and an infrastructure to research and test the fundamentals for the use of future AI technologies and to apply them in teaching. Finally, the emerging robot test park in Tulln – adjacent to the new House of Digitalization - may also generate broad interest in the topic. The research methodology follows a 3G pioneer research approach with agile human-centered design: generation 1 testing of existing technology, generation 2 adaptation of existing technology with low-cost means, generation 3 advanced adaptation that goes beyond the state of the art and is planned together with our partners in Canada and UK - world leading robotics institutes. The infrastructure funded by this proposal will serve existing projects and is intended to spur new, larger projects (e.g.,EU). Added values are planned on three levels: 1) for the international AI research community through publications, 2) for the state of Lower Austria through a) later practical usage possibilities, and b) as an important contribution to teaching and making AI education more attractive to young researchers to counteract the labor shortage in AI.