Process and apparatus for automatically positioning an explosive charge above the surface of snow

摘要

A process and an apparatus for automatically positioning an explosive charge at a predetermined position above the surface of the snow for setting off an avalanche. The apparatus includes an electric winch for unwinding and rewinding a suspension string attached to the explosive charge. The winch is swingably mounted in a container of the apparatus in a manner so as to oscillate between up and down positions depending upon whether the string is tensioned or not. Magnetic detectors associated with the winch count and signal the number of turns of its drum to a programmable electronic unit. Coded wheels are provided to select a maximum height of descent and a lifting height for the charge after contact with the snow.