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FPInnovations launches new Android app for steep grades
Oct. 26, 2018 – Thanks to FPInnovations’ Steep Slope Initiative researchers, there’s a new Android app available for mobile devices to help determine appropriate payloads and descent speeds for loaded log-hauling trucks travelling on slopes with curves, as well as on inclines greater than 18 per cent.
October 26, 2018 By FPInnovations
The Steep Grade Descent (SGD) Guidelines app is based on a spreadsheet tool and allows users to input various road parameters such as grade, length, the presence of a switchback, and traction level. The app predicts safe loads and operating speeds for specific road conditions, also entered into the app. If the specified conditions pose too high a risk, then additional measures such as revised road parameters (grades and traction) must be considered to ensure safe hauling.
The app is developed for highway trucks with 42 cm (16.5 inch) diameter brake drums with a payload of 60 tonnes. For a truck configuration to be acceptable, it must be able to stop on a steep pitch using only its service brakes in the event of a driveline failure.
“We took the cue from our members working on logging sites who told us they needed increased mobility to do their jobs efficiently,” said principal researcher Séamus Parker. “The response from forestry operators has been positive.”
The SGD Guidelines app is available on the Google Play store and FPInnovations is working on an iOS version, which will be released in the upcoming year.
For more information please contact Séamus Parker at Seamus.Parker@fpinnovations.ca.
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