Patent ID: 7320349
Filing Date: 2008-01-22
Classification: A01G

Abstract:
1. A method for operating a tree harvesting machine including a tree harvesting tool and a controller, wherein the method is performed by the controller, the method comprising: identifying a tree to be harvested; generating one or more tree position signals indicative of a position of the tree, wherein generating one or more tree position signals includes generating a signal indicative of a direction of the location of the tree with respect to the tree harvesting machine; generating one or more tree harvesting tool position signals indicative of a position of the tree harvesting tool; determining the position of the tree relative to the tree harvesting tool; prompting an operator to provide a trigger signal when the controller has determined the position of the tree relative to the tree harvesting tool; receiving the trigger signal; executing an automatic positioning sequence in response to the trigger signal; automatically generating a tool control signal; and controlling movement of the tree harvesting tool toward the tree with the tool control signal as a function of the one or more tree position signals and the one or more tree harvesting tool position signals.