The Hitch Post

One of the coolest hydraulic machines ever

Feb. 1, 2012

Even though this prototype was built several years ago, it still may be the coolest looking hydraulically powered machine I've seen. Click here to see the video. The goal of product development was to create a machine with the best possible working stability and minimum impact on the terrain.

Alan Hitchcox Blog

Even though this prototype was built several years ago, it still may be the coolest looking hydraulically powered machine I've seen. Click here to see the video.

Hydraulicspneumatics Com Sites Hydraulicspneumatics com Files Uploads 2008 02 Timberjack

The walking machine adapts automatically to the forest floor. Moving on six articulated legs, the harvester advances forward and backward, sideways and diagonally. It can also turn in place and step over obstacles. Depending on the irregularity of the terrain, the operator can adjust both the ground clearance of the machine and height of each step.

The harvester’s nerve center is an intelligent computer system that controls all walking functions — direction of movement, travelling speed, step height and gait, and ground clearance. The harvester head is controlled by Timberjack's measuring and control system.

To further optimize machine operation, Timberjack’s Total Machine Control system regulates the functions of machine’s loader and engine. All control systems are designed for easy of use. The operator-friendly controls are incorporated in a single
joystick. So now maybe video game skills finally have application in the real world.

About the Author

Alan Hitchcox Blog | Editor in Chief

Alan joined Hydraulics & Pneumatics in 1987 with experience as a technical magazine editor and in industrial sales. He graduated with a BS in engineering technology from Franklin University and has also worked as a mechanic and service coordinator. He has taken technical courses in fluid power and electronic and digital control at the Milwaukee School of Engineering and the University of Wisconsin and has served on numerous industry committees.