Nawiinginokiima Forest Management Corporation (NFMC) and Provectus Robotics Solutions Inc. have entered into an agreement to bring semi-autonomous logging truck convoys to the forestry industry.
With help from the Centre for Research & Innovation in the Bio-Economy (CRIBE), NFMC and Provectus Robotics Solutions were brought together. The solution will have an experienced logging road truck driver in the lead, with two autonomous trucks following behind, closely duplicating the expert driver’s route and speed to ensure a safe passage from loading to the mill. With safety being paramount, obstacle detection and avoidance technologies will be employed as well as a continuous and reliable link between the lead vehicle and the two autonomous followers. The project is commencing immediately with testing to occur in spring and summer of 2021.
“Brining the advanced technology that has been developed for off-road applications in extreme climates from desert heat to ice and snow, has enabled us to bring a robust and viable solution to the logging industry”, explains Jason Scheib, Director, Business Development for Provectus Robotics Solutions. “We believe this will be a valuable advancement to address the driver shortage in Northern Ontario and around the world, while making the transport of lumber to the mills safer and more efficient.”
NFMC manages approximately 1.5 million hectares of productive Crown forest and has been tasked to provide a steady flow of wood to major mills in the area to support the economy and provide people with jobs.
The project is being launched under the Direction of Carmelo Notarbartolo, General Manager, NFMC.
Provectus Robotics Solutions Inc. is industry leader in advanced robotic system design, integration, and control.
