A pamphlet describing and illustrating the mechanics of running skyline systems. Skyline analysis, with model work sheet and illustrative calculations, is provided. (CFD).

This paper is intended for those who wish to prepare an algorithm to determine the load path of a running skyline. The mathematics of a simplified approach to this running skyline design problem are presented. The approach employs assumptions which reduce the complexity of the problem to the point where it can be solved on desk-top computers of limited capacities. The results of this approach are compared with the exact catenary solution.

The procedure for determination of running skyline load-carrying capability is discussed. A desk-top computer/plotter is employed to plot terrain profiles and determine and plot the path of a loaded running skyline carriage. The computer programs implementing the procedure are included. The paper is intended for the designer who is investigating the use of running skylines in harvesting plans.

The running skyline is a popular cable logging system being used in many parts of North American today. Proper application of this system requires investigation of its adaptability to the terrain being logged. This paper presents a digital computer program to determine running skyline load-carrying capabilities to aid the logging layout designer with this planning task. The Fortran IV program, the details of input, and the interpretation of output are discussed.