Snowboard simulation based on distinct element method

Abstract

Many studies have performed simulations of skiing and snowboarding which consider the reaction force between a board and the snow surface by linear springs. Actually, the snowboards run while they cut snow and push the snow. In these studies, complicated behavior snow is not taken into consideration. In this study, we develop a simulation of model considering the contact state between a board and snow surface by reproducing snow behavior. The simulation model examines a relation between a geometric shape of board and dynamic behavior of snowboard by this simulation model. In the simulation, snow is reproduced by the Distinct Element Method (DEM). Three boards which are different in the side curve radius examine turn characteristics. As a result of simulation, it is confirmed that the turn becomes larger as the side curve radius is smaller. It is known that snowboard perform turns along side curve. These simulation results agreed with the generally theory of snowboard turn.