The Transport of Tent Group Supplies and Equipment in the North. Part I: Sledge vs Toboggan.

摘要

The use of sledges and toboggans in polar exploration is discussed and the theory of friction on snow and ice is outlined. Empirical equations are presented for calculating the drag and depth of sinkage of a sliding surface in soft snow. These equations predict that a sledge with optimum dimensions will require less effort to pull in areas of light snow cover than the Canadian Forces toboggan, or alternatively, could carry approximately double the load without additional effort. Experiments are described which were carried out to measure the drag of four different toboggans and to determine the effect of the addition of a low-friction sliding surface to one of them. Further investigation is recommended to determine the validity of the equations for drag and sinkage on wind-packed snow and to confirm predictions regarding the advantages of using long, narrow runners. (Author)