Brian Kane, Ph.D., Department of Environmental Conservation, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, reached out to perform a study on the Ronin (powered ascending) vs. Ropewalking in the arborist field. In the paper, he analysis’ the effects of loading frequency on the tree, heart rate, and efficiency gain. His scientific measurement recorded using the Ronin over Ropewalking increased efficiency by 56% and decreased the heart rate by 47%. This can be interpreted as climbing, seeing a significant decrease in physical strain on his body while increasing output efficiency. Also, the frequency spikes showed when Ropewalking directly correlates to the impact the body endures when climbing. The results also showed that using a powered ascender did not induce additional loading conditions that are not seen by traditional Ropewalking techniques.
