Abstract
This study proposes a moving mechanism using an Archimedes' screw for propelling a snow surface layer. In order to predict the occurrence of surface avalanche, a movable capability without breaking a layer of fresh snow on the surface is required for an avalanche search robot. Because it is too heavy, the moving mechanism using a crawler that has been used conventionally can't move on a layer of fresh snow. However, this problem is solved by employing the Archimedes' screw because it is a lightweight device. Movement ability of the proposed system is largely dependent on the mechanical properties of the snow surface layer. Particularly, the subduction depth of snow layer which is compressed and the maximum shear load which doesn't break a layer of fresh snow are important properties. In this paper, the mechanical properties of the measured snow surface layer are reported. Further, moving ability of the proposed system is evaluated on the basis of the measurement results.
