TRA GHIACCI E TERRAFERMA
exploring Inuit transport dynamics in the face of climate change
Description
Our planet is in constant flux, and recent climate changes demand urgent reflection and concrete actions. This thesis project analyzes climate change by examining the past to understand current and future challenges. The devastating impact is evident, particularly in the Arctic, where climatic changes affect biodiversity and marginalized indigenous populations, such as the Inuit, who are central to this project. The study focuses on how climate change is affecting their mobility and food supply. Rising temperatures and diminishing sea ice complicate access to hunting grounds and mobility, threatening food security and the sustainability of traditions. The research focused on innovative solutions to improve mobility, suggesting an amphibious transportation system that can operate on both ice and water. This solution is designed to be flexible and adaptable to varying climatic conditions while supporting the Inuit culture and traditions. The project is divided into two parts: the first part revisits the 2023 Ski-Doo Mountain model, selected for its use of E_TEC technology to reduce pollutant emissions. The design of existing commercial parts was modified, as further research, development, and prototyping phases would be required, which are beyond the project’s scope. Therefore, the amphibious system is universal and compatible with any type of snowmobile. The second part of the project illustrates the amphibious proposal: a floating platform made of reinforced biocomposites, capable of supporting heavy weights thanks to the Drop Stitch technology, already tested commercially by the company GoBoat®. The project is based on three fundamental concepts using the same mechanism: a platform composed of two parts, which, through a hinge system with a clamping function, allows for easy transportation facilitated by the implementation of carabiner hooks attached to the vehicle. The operation in water is ensured by integrating elements such as a rudder for direction and a drive shaft for generating kinetic energy, allowing operation supported by a system of reinforced recycled rubber valves, strategically placed to follow the path of any type of track. The transmission operation is straightforward: the mechanical movement generated by the engine is transmitted through the drive shaft to the snowmobile platform, transferring the kinetic energy generated by the engine, thanks to the presence of three gears that transform linear motion into rotational motion. The propeller drive shaft transforms kinetic energy into propulsive force, spinning the propeller and enabling movement in water. In conclusion, the project aims to highlight how the challenges posed by climate change represent not only an environmental threat but also an opportunity for reflection. The research conducted seeks to invite learning from the ancient wisdom of indigenous peoples, their extraordinary adaptability, and their intrinsic connection to Nature. This reflection represents not only a necessity but also a call to build a future that looks to the past, embracing the promise of a more sustainable world for future generations.
