Productivity Analysis of Mid-Size Cable Yarding Operation based on UAV-captured Video Sequences

Cable yarding is one of the most preferred timber extraction methods in steep and mountainous terrain conditions. In recent years in Turkiye, mid-size cable yarders have begun to be used frequently in steep forest areas where intensive forestry is carried out. In order to make more effective use of cable yarders and achieve maximum productivity, timber extraction operations must be planned most appropriately and implemented in the field accordingly. The productivity of mechanized equipment used in harvesting operations is mainly determined by using time study analysis. In traditional methods, time measurements are carried out by observing the work stages with time recording devices (stopwatches) in the area where the machine operates. Since timber extraction by using a cable yarder occur in steep and rugged terrain conditions, difficulties may be encountered in applying time analysis in the field. In this study, it was aimed to obtain high-resolution digital video images of the activities of cable yarding operation with an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) and to calculate productivity through time study analysis on these images. For the study, the Tajfun MOZ 500 GR model mid-size cable yarder was evaluated during a timber extraction operation in Köyceğiz Forest Enterprise Chief (FEC), located in Muğla City, Turkiye. Besides, statistical analysis was performed to estimate the effects of factors such as average product length, product diameter, lateral yarding distance, number of pieces, and total product volume per turn on the productivity of the cable yarder. The results indicated that UAV video images can be an effective alternative method to conduct time study analysis and productivity estimations. It was found that the productivity of the mid-size cable yarder was 11.76 m3/hour. During the operation, the pulling mainline to the product and choker setting were the most time-consuming work stages, followed by the time-loaded carriage reaching the landing. The statistical analysis indicated a significant relationship (p<0.001) between product length, product diameter, total volume and productivity of the cable yarder. The results showed that there was a negative relationship between lateral yarding distance and productivity. The regression model regarding the productivity of the cable yarder and the independent variables was also significant.