Forest machine operators can be taught the correct and productive practices right from the start when TimberLink is used in the training process.

Timberlink is known as a performance and condition analysis system for forest machines, but it also offers a great new way to train machine operators more efficiently. TimberLink can obtain measurable results about the operator’s working techniques and operating skills with a loader, for example, and performance issues can then be addressed in the training.

TimberLink in the toolbox
TimberLink analyses the condition and performance of forest machines throughout their life cycle. The monitoring system increases forest machine productivity and uptime and decreases operating costs. The training version of the system supports the development of the operator’s professional skills, starting with the simulator training phase.

For John Deere’s Simo Tujula, the reason for using TimberLink in training is clear.

“The operator’s working techniques and skills have a big impact on the productivity of the machine. Differences in productivity can be as high as 40%. TimberLink makes it possible to significantly accelerate the operator’s development from a novice to a master.”

A revolutionary development step
The expanded use of TimberLink for training purposes has so far been adopted in John Deere’s operator training in Russia. Tujula has been a solid supporter in the process; under his direction, some 1,500 Russians have already been taught the forest machine operator vocation. And it’s a pace that shows no signs of slowing: This year alone, John Deere will train hundreds of new operators in Russia.

“TimberLink unleashes revolutionary training opportunities, from simulator training to practical, hands-on learning,” Tujula says. He hopes that the use of TimberLink in training will quickly become mainstream.

During the training, all the practice results can be recorded and the learning curve of the potential operator can be tracked.

“We can set personal targets for each individual based on the mistakes uncovered by TimberLink. This is a major step forward also because of the fact that the instructor’s time in the forest with the operator is limited to just a few hours. Now the instructor can receive a report by email if there is a clear discrepancy between the operator’s performance and the average for the course. This way, the instructor can quickly address techniques that are being performed incorrectly. With TimberLink, an instructor can train operators more thoroughly to master the practical skills they need.”

It all starts with the basics
Tujula emphasizes the importance of the initial phases in learning the profession of forest machine operator. The first six months are the most critical.

“That is when the operator learns motion control; it becomes automatic. After six months, it’s all routine and the operators don’t even have to think about it.”

He says that if you ask experienced operators to talk through the different phases of their work, they can’t necessarily explain them. However, incorrect practices of even a seasoned operator can be corrected.

“By paying close attention to the different work phases, we have been able to significantly increase the processing time, thereby improving the yield, and to decrease the duration of the secondary phases. And it doesn’t take much to see big results. With as little as a half-hour talk with the operator and a review of the TimberLink data, we often see a more than 10 percent increase in the productivity of even the top machines.”

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