SnowHowYear-round active mobility – resources and network

Resources

4 resources

  • Research

    Research and Development Toward the Unmanned Operation of Snow Removal Machines and Delivery Vehicles in Snow-Covered Environment

    Takanori Emaru · 2025 · Japan

    This research presents the development of technologies to support the automation of snow removal machinery in cold and snowy environments, with particular emphasis on sidewalk maintenance. To address labour shortages and improve operational safety, the researchers developed a real-time pedestrian detection and warning system intended to reduce reliance on human safety guides during snow removal operations. The system combines thermal imaging and 3D LiDAR to detect pedestrians under low-light and snowy conditions, using sensor fusion and onboard real-time processing. The reported results demonstrate the technical feasibility of pedestrian detection in challenging winter environments. The research contributes to the development of safer, more automated winter maintenance operations and provides a foundation for future unmanned snow removal equipment.

    • Maintenance & Operations
    • Data & Monitoring
  • Research

    A Study of the Relationship between Human Behavior and Urban Design during the Winter in a High-Snowfall Urban Area

    Norihiro Watanabe, Tsuyoshi Setoguchi · 2024 · Japan

    This field-based study investigates how winter conditions influence pedestrian movement and staying behaviour in an urban public square in Sapporo, Japan. Observations at AKAPLA Plaza reveal that pedestrian volumes decline as temperatures fall, while the proportion of people engaging in stationary activities does not necessarily decrease. The researchers identify three complementary winter design principles: PATH, providing accessible routes with reduced snow cover; STORAGE, retaining selected snow-covered areas for activities such as photography and snow play; and APPROACH, creating access to snow-covered areas to encourage people to spend time outdoors. The findings demonstrate how snow management and spatial design can jointly support the use of public spaces during winter, offering practical concepts for climate-responsive public space planning in cold and snowy cities.

    • Planning & Design
    • Data & Monitoring
    • Health, Safety & Wellbeing
  • ResearchCase study

    Efficient Public Underground Pedestrian Space in a Cold-Climate City: A Case Study of Sapporo, Japan

    Margarita Krivorotko, Tsuyoshi Setoguchi, Norihiro Watanabe · 2024 · Japan

    This study examines the role of underground pedestrian infrastructure in supporting year-round walking in Sapporo, Japan, a city characterised by cold winters and substantial snowfall. Focusing on the ChiKaHo underground pedestrian network, the researchers analyse pedestrian count data from 2019–2022 to investigate seasonal variations in pedestrian activity and the use of weather-protected public space. At the observation points studied, winter pedestrian volumes were 31–59% higher than in summer, highlighting the importance of sheltered pedestrian connections during harsh weather conditions. The study offers insights into how underground pedestrian networks can support accessibility, connectivity and everyday mobility in cold-climate cities. It provides a useful case study for urban planners considering the integration of protected pedestrian routes into year-round active mobility systems.

    • Data & Monitoring
  • ResearchMethod

    Mechanical Treatment of Snow and Ice Surfaces Formed on Winter Sidewalks

    Gou Miura, Satoshi Takamoto, Masharu Kouda · 2016 · Japan

    This Japanese technical study investigates mechanical methods for treating compacted snow and ice surfaces that develop on sidewalks during winter. Conducted by the Civil Engineering Research Institute for Cold Region (CERI), the research examines a prototype device designed to break up or remove hardened, uneven snow and ice that conventional snow ploughing may leave behind. Experimental testing was used to assess the potential of mechanical surface treatment for improving winter sidewalk conditions. The study addresses a practical challenge in maintaining safe and accessible pedestrian routes in snowy cities, particularly for older people and pedestrians with reduced mobility. It provides a useful example of equipment-oriented research aimed at improving the quality of winter pedestrian infrastructure.

    • Maintenance & Operations