Abstract: A work machine extending in a fore-aft direction includes a frame, a ground-engaging mechanism, a boom assembly to the frame, and a traction assist apparatus. The ground-engaging mechanism is configured to support the frame on a surface. The traction assist apparatus is coupled to the boom assembly. The traction assist apparatus has an attachment point for securing a tether.

Abstract: A hitch mechanism for a work vehicle configured for operation on slopes. The hitch mechanism couplable to a tether fixed in position up the slope. An arm extends outwardly and upwardly from the work vehicle frame and supports a tether engaging structure couplable to the tether. The arm is mounted to the frame structure beneath the body portion of the work vehicle and extends rearwardly from the frame to support the tether engaging structure rearwardly of the body portion and rearwardly of the ground engaging drive mechanism. The hitch includes a pivot structure coupling the arm to the frame that allows the arm to pivot about a horizontal axis such that the arm is shiftable vertically. A controller receives inputs corresponding to at least one vehicle parameter and is operatively coupled to an actuator for causing the arm to shift in response to changes in the vehicle parameter.

Abstract: A tree felling head comprising a frame is coupled to a boom assembly of a harvester. A saw is coupled to the frame and is configured to cut a tree. A sensor that senses cutting of the tree by the saw and outputs a first signal when the tree is cut by the saw. A grapple arm is coupled to the frame. At least one grapple arm actuator is coupled between the frame and the grapple arm. The grapple arm actuator is configured to move the grapple arm between a closed position, a gliding position, and an open position. A control system is in communication with the grapple arm actuator and the sensor. The control system receives the first signal output by the sensor and outputs a second signal to cause the grapple arm actuator to move the grapple arm to the gliding position.

Abstract: A work machine extending in a fore-aft direction includes a frame, a ground-engaging mechanism, a boom assembly to the frame, and a traction assist apparatus. The ground-engaging mechanism is configured to support the frame on a surface. The traction assist apparatus is coupled to the boom assembly. The traction assist apparatus has an attachment point for securing a tether.

Abstract: A hitch mechanism for a work vehicle configured for operation on slopes. The hitch mechanism couplable to a tether fixed in position up the slope. An arm extends outwardly and upwardly from the work vehicle frame and supports a tether engaging structure couplable to the tether. The arm is mounted to the frame structure beneath the body portion of the work vehicle and extends rearwardly from the frame to support the tether engaging structure rearwardly of the body portion and rearwardly of the ground engaging drive mechanism. The hitch includes a pivot structure coupling the arm to the frame that allows the arm to pivot about a horizontal axis such that the arm is shiftable vertically. A controller receives inputs corresponding to at least one vehicle parameter and is operatively coupled to an actuator for causing the arm to shift in response to changes in the vehicle parameter.

Abstract: A stability warning system for a tree feller-buncher includes a first inertial measurement unit configured to measure an orientation of an undercarriage of the tree feller-buncher carrying at least one track, a second inertial measurement unit configured to measure an orientation of a boom coupled to the turntable, and a felling head operably connected to the boom. A controller is operable to estimate a center of gravity of the tree feller-buncher based on the measured orientation of the undercarriage and the measured orientation of the boom.

Abstract: A stability warning system for a tree feller-buncher includes a first inertial measurement unit configured to measure an orientation of an undercarriage of the tree feller-buncher carrying at least one track, a second inertial measurement unit configured to measure an orientation of a boom coupled to the turntable, and a felling head operably connected to the boom. A controller is operable to estimate a center of gravity of the tree feller-buncher based on the measured orientation of the undercarriage and the measured orientation of the boom.