Instantaneous measurements of snowdrifts in small-scale modeling

Side-by-side comparisons of small-scale models in drifting snow can quickly answer questions about efficient drift control. However, measuring snowdrifts simultaneously as they accumulate near paired models requires a faster method than probing each drift with a ruler. We explored computer imaging for a possible alternative. Analyzing photographs of a 'rake' of vertical pinjs pressed in to the drift produced promising results. Usint the method, we compared trapping efficiency of model tree rows with model snow fences, as an example.