Putting snow research into practice better snowmobile trails and ski slopes

摘要

Snow mechanics research, including modification of mechanical properties, has evolved over many decades and has been applied in various fields. Winter recreation has become a large economic benefit to rural areas to the extent that there is a continuing demand for improvement in snowmobile trails, ski slopes, and cross country ski trails. Present grooming techniques are inadequate for heavily used areas. A new concept for snow processing/grooming to make a more durable and smoother surface for snowmobile traffic and for transforming hard snow and ice into a powdery material for skiing has been developed and proof-tested with a full-scale prototype groomer. This groomer includes a fine milling process combined with vibratory compaction.