Student Design of an All-Terrain Vehicle for Forestry Operations 821041
College seniors in Mechanical Engineering designed, built, and tested two self-propelled all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) adaptable as power sources in tree planting, timber cruising, recreation, and similar applications. The first ATV was constructed in 1978. Following its evaluation, modification, and re-evaluation, the second ATV was built in 1980.
Field tests were conducted on prepared beds for tree planting in the Hofmann Forest in Onslow and Jones Counties, North Carolina. These tests demonstrated that the vehicles were adequately powered and capable of navigating the terrain. Modifications to improve lateral stability were recommended for future operation on tops of beds.