Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Alexander Dmitriev
The Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering has a new candidate of technical sciences. The degree was awarded to Alexander Dmitriev, Director of the Smart Labor Test Site and Assistant Professor in the Department of Technosphere Safety at the Faculty of Civil Engineering.
The defense took place on November 26, 2025, at the Volga Region State Technological University (Yoshkar-Ola). The dissertation council reviewed the work on the topic "Justification of the Parameters of Tractors with Wheeled and Tracked Drive for Low-Volume Logging."
The Path to Defense
According to Alexander Dmitriev, preparing for the defense was an important and challenging stage in his professional development: "It's impossible to prepare perfectly for such work—every dissertation committee member has their own opinions and questions. But I consider the defense a success: the questions were interesting, and I was able to answer them well."
Work on this topic took approximately five years—from the initial scientific ideas to the completed study and thesis defense. During this time, scientific articles were published, calculations were conducted, and experimental studies were conducted.
Relevance of the study
This dissertation addresses the pressing issue of the impact of logging equipment on soil cover. Today, approximately 85% of logging companies in Russia are small and medium-sized companies that lack the means to purchase expensive specialized equipment and primarily use agricultural tractors.
Such equipment, particularly those from the Minsk Tractor Plant, is widely used due to its affordability and ease of maintenance. However, in forested conditions—stumps, fallen trees, and deep snow—its maneuverability is reduced and the load on the soil increases, damaging the ecosystem.
Alexander Dmitriev developed a mathematical model of a wheeled-tracked propulsion system, which retains wheels at the front and installs a track module at the rear. Increasing the ground contact area allows for:
Reduce specific soil pressure; reduce environmental damage; improve equipment cross-country ability; and increase traction characteristics.
The theoretical calculations were confirmed by laboratory experiments using soil stamping tests. The study also provides a business case for the system's implementation: modernization requires minimal investment but can significantly improve the efficiency of small logging operations.
Prospects for implementation
The concept of a wheeled-tracked propulsion system is well-known worldwide, but its application in low-volume logging and comprehensive mathematical justification of its parameters have not previously been conducted. The developed model can serve as a basis for further research and practical implementation at enterprises in the industry.
The results of the dissertation are publicly available and can be used by companies for independent calculations and equipment modernization.
On the scientific path and mentorship
Alexander Dmitriev emphasizes that a supervisor plays a key role in scientific development. He expressed gratitude to his mentor, Doctor of Engineering Sciences Olga Kunitskaya, noting that the combination of professional support and personal motivation serves as the foundation for a successful defense.
Speaking about students and young researchers, he advises treating a dissertation as a long-term project that requires systematic work and patience: "The main thing is not to give up when you feel like putting it all off. It's part of the journey. It takes time, planning, and an understanding that it's a long process."
New professional opportunities
Alexander Dmitriev currently works as an assistant in the Department of Technosphere Safety at the Faculty of Construction at St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering and heads the "Smart Labor" testing site. Earning his academic degree opens up new professional prospects and the opportunity to compete for higher positions.
The university staff congratulates Alexander Dmitriev on the successful defense of his dissertation and wishes him continued scientific achievements, the implementation of research projects, and new professional heights!
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.