Optimal belaying strategies for rock climbing
Gerhard Sorger · Optimal Control Applications and Methods · 1987
Abstract In this paper we analyse a model which describes one section of an Alpine climbing tour. As a control variable, we introduce the intensity of belaying. The objective of control is the maximization of the safety or pleasure of climbing. We focus our attention on the qualitative structure of the optimal belaying strategy and on the question of how it depends on the degree of climbing difficulty. The model is based on a stochastic approach; its solution, however, is derived by means of deterministic control theory.