Plustech Oy develops and produces systems that exploit the potential of servo-controlled power transmissions related to walking technology, which can be applied to vehicles operating on rough ground or in areas otherwise difficult to traverse. Other applications include remote-control robots for service, repair, and rescue duties in high-risk circumstances.

The company says the benefits of walking technology for vehicles include reduced environmental damage, minimum risk of soil erosion on steep slopes, optimum distribution of ground pressure, high variable ground clearance, good maneuverability in difficult terrain, easy handling, and excellent stability. It is applying the technology to, among other vehicles, forest machines.

The renewal of forest environments is a slow process; the effects of timber harvesting remain long after operations cease. The company uses simulators in designing walking technology applications to anticipate the impact of planned operations and to train people in minimizing mistakes in the forest. Plustech forest machine simulators are based on the principle of accurate machinery modeling and on a versatile visual system that is easy to expand. A modular structure makes it possible to adapt the simulator for many machine types.

According to Plustech, forests should be treated carefully to preserve them for future generations. The use of modern technology makes it possible not only to operate efficiently in the forest, but also to live up to the environmental requirements of the future. A walking machine is one step in this direction.