Suspension System for a Vehicle

Abstract

The suspension system for a ski vehicle or similar vehicle is configured to help a disabled skier traverse down a ski slope with adjustable pressure and easily lift into a chair lift at the bottom of a ski slope. The suspension system for a ski vehicle has a compressor system, a gauge system, a lift system, and a suspension system. The compressor system provides pressure with either a constant flow or a short burst of pressure. Further, the gauge system monitors the pressure within the system. Additionally, the lift assist system utilizes the pressure in the present invention to lift the skier. Further, the suspension system recharges the compressor system while absorbing shocks and bumps as the skier skis down a ski slope.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates generally to a suspension system 4. More specifically, the present invention is a suspension system 4 for a vehicle that provides suspension and chair lift assistance that recharges as a skier skis down a slope.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] A Sit-ski is a piece of equipment that falls under the umbrella of adaptive sports. A Sit-ski is commonly referred to as an adaptive Ski, Mono Ski, Uni ski or a Para ski. These terms are interchangeable but refer to the same piece of equipment. The user, who often is disabled in some way, can use a Sit-ski to ski much the same way as an able-bodied skier can. The Sit-ski comprises of a bucket seat on a deck with a leg brace and a foot plate, which assembly is suspended usually via a suspension unit to a base unit that directly sits in the bindings of the Ski or is attached directly to the Ski. The user rides the ski vehicle and performs turns to regulate speed, using out riggers for balance and turn initiation. Ski lifts vary but there are different techniques for each type. Sit-skis are equipped with a suspension system 4 that absorbs shocks and bumps in the terrain but also provides an advanced way to jump by preloading the pressure while entering the start of a ramp or jump and unloading it as they reach the top of the slope. The suspension system 4 is also adjustable to compensate for the surrounding environment such as altitude and temperature. An additional function of a suspension system 4 is its ability to absorb impact on jumping while providing greater ski control on the snow, where the ski’s contact with the snow is improved. Unfortunately, many of these Sit-skis do not provide a lift system to raise the bucket seat of the Sit-ski to allow the user to easily get into the chair lift system on a ski slope.

[0003] An objective of the present invention is to provide users with an air shock system, to help the skier navigate their way down a ski slope. The present invention intends to provide users with a device that can be easily adjusted and monitored while skiing down a ski slope. In order to accomplish that, a preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises a compressor system 1, a gauge system 2, a lift assist system 3, and a suspension system 4. Further, the suspension system 4 allows the present invention to recharge as the user goes down the ski slope. Thus, the present invention is a ski vehicle suspension system 4 that provides continuously adjustable pressure and a lift assist system 3 for easily lifting the user into a chair lift system.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0004] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the present invention.

[0005] FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the present invention.

[0006] FIG. 3 is a front view of the present invention.

[0007] FIG. 4 is a rear view of the present invention.

[0008] FIG. 5 is a right-side view of the present invention.

[0009] FIG. 6 is a left side view of the present invention.

[0010] FIG. 7 is a top view of the present invention.

[0011] FIG. 8 is a bottom view of the present invention.

[0012] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the present invention with the internal components.

[0013] FIG. 10 is a bottom perspective view of the present invention with the internal components.

[0014] FIG. 11 is a front view of the present invention with the internal components.

[0015] FIG. 12 is a front perspective view of the closed loop system without a sit ski.

[0016] FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of the closed loop system without a sit ski.

[0017] FIG. 14 is a rear perspective view of the closed loop system without a sit ski.

[0018] FIG. 15 is a block diagram of the closed loop system.

[0019] FIG. 16 is a side view of the closed loop system in a generic vehicle with an auxiliary electric pump.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0020] All illustrations of the drawings are for the purpose of describing selected versions of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0021] The present invention is a suspension system 4 for a ski vehicle to help disabled skier traverse down a ski slope with adjustable pressure and easily lift into a chair lift at the bottom of a ski slope. The present invention seeks to provide users with a device that can absorb shocks and bumps on a ski slope terrain while providing an advanced way to jump by pre-loading pressure within the system when entering a jump and unloading the pressure as the rider leaves a ramp or jump. In order to accomplish this the present invention comprises a compressor system 1 that provides pressure to the present invention with either a constant flow or a short burst of pressure with a quick release valve 21. Further, the gauge system 2 is designed to allow the user to easily monitor their pressure within the present invention and adjust it accordingly. Additionally, the lift assist system 3 is designed to utilize the pressure in the present invention to lift the skier onto a chair lift easily. Further, the suspension system 4 is designed to absorb shocks and bumps as the skier skis down a ski slope all while recharging the compressor system 1 creating a self-sustained closed loop system 5. The present invention may be integrated into a variety of vehicle types such as a sit ski, a ski vehicle, an all-terrain vehicle, a snow mobile, a motorbike, and any other similar vehicle that traverses down a hill or mountain. Thus, the present invention is a ski vehicle suspension system 4 that provides continuously adjustable pressure and a lift assist system 3 for easily lifting the user into a chair lift system.

[0022] As shown in FIG. 1-16, the present invention is a suspension system 4 for a ski vehicle. An objective of the present invention is to provide users with a device that absorbs shocks and bumps on ski slope terrain that recharges the system while traversing downhill. The present invention intends to provide users with a device that has a fully adjustable pressure level to allow the skier to load and unload pressure throughout skiing to traverse the slope and complete jumps. To accomplish this the present invention comprises a compressor system 1, a gauge system 2, a lift assist system 3 and a suspension system 4. Many of these components allow for the skier to monitor and instantaneously change the amount of pressure within the system. The compressor system 1 is fluidly coupled to the gauge system 2 via a compressor one way valve 14. As a result, the compressor system 1 is attached to the gauge system 2 wherein the compressor one-way valve regulates the direction of gas flow from the compressor system 1 to the gauge system 2. The gauge system 2 is fluidly coupled to both the lift assist system 3 and the suspension system 4. Furthermore, the suspension system 4 is fluidly coupled to the compressor system 1 wherein a closed loop system 5 is formed. Consequently, the closed loop system 5 provides a pressurized system through which the gas can travel. The gauge system 2 controls the amount of pressure within the closed loop system 5. Accordingly, the gauge system 2 enables the skier to manually adjust the amount of pressure within the closed loop system 5 of the present invention. Thus, the present invention is a suspension system 4 for a vehicle or ski vehicle that provides continuously adjustable pressure and a lift assist system 3 for easily lifting the skier into a chair lift system.

[0023] The present invention allows a skier to traverse down a ski slope while recharging the present invention, making it self-sufficient. The compressor system 1 provides a gas to the present invention, allowing various systems and components to move or withstand external forces. In its preferred embodiment the compressor system 1 further comprises a gas reservoir 11, a gas compressor 12, and a compressor one way valve 14. The gas reservoir 11 is positioned along the side of the present invention whereas shown in FIG. 1. The gas reservoir 11 is configured to store a gas. Thus, the gas reservoir 11 may store a gas, such as air, within the closed loop system 5 until the gas is needed. The gas reservoir 11 is designed with a large metal material that retains its shape when pressurized. In an alternative embodiment the gas reservoir 11 is removable. So, a plug-in canister can be utilized such as a CO2 canister. The gas reservoir 11 is coupled to the gas compressor 12. The gas compressor 12 forces gas into the gauge system 2. As a result, potential energy can be stored for various uses within the present invention. The compressor system 1 is connected to the gauge system 2 via at least one gas line 13, wherein the at least one gas line 13 connects the compressor system 1 to the gauge system 2 to the lift system, to the suspension system 4 wherein the suspension system 4 connects back to the compressor system 1. The compressor one way valve 14 controls the flow of gas within the at least one gas line 13. Along the at least one gas line 13 in between the gas reservoir 11 and the gauge system 2 is the compressor one way valve 14. The compressor one way valve 14 is a valve that limits the flow of gas in one direction. This design ensures that the gas within the gas reservoir 11 can only flow outwards towards the gauge system 2. It should be further noted that, the compressor system 1 can be created in many various shapes and sizes and the gas compressor 12 could be designed in various ways while still staying within the scope of the present invention.

[0024] The gauge system 2 connects with the compressor system 1 via the at least one gas line 13 shown in FIG. 11. In its preferred embodiment the gauge system 2 comprises a quick release valve 21, a pressure release button 22, a pressure tap 23, a plurality of gauges 24, and a valve switch 25. The pressure tap 23 is a button that can be pressed inwards to release gas from the gas reservoir 11 at a steady rate. The pressure tap 23 is positioned between the gas reservoir 11 and the pressure release button 22. As a result the pressure tap 23 enables the lift system or suspension system 4 to become pressurized to the skiers desired pressure. The pressure tap 23 is configured to release gas from the gas reservoir 11 at a steady rate. Furthermore, the quick release valve 21 is positioned adjacent to the pressure tap 23. The quick release valve 21 controls short bursts of pressure from the gas reservoir 11 to the suspension system 4. Consequently, the quick release valve 21 is a valve, that when triggered, quickly sends a burst of pressure from the gas reservoir 11 to the suspension system 4. Further along the gauge system 2 is the pressure release button 22. The pressure release button 22 controls the pressure level of the closed loop system 5. Accordingly, the pressure release button 22 is a mechanical button that moves to release gas out of the present invention depressurizing the system. Connected after each of these components is the plurality of gauges 24. The plurality of gauges 24 is positioned before the valve switch 25. Thus, the plurality of gauges 24 monitors and displays the amount of pressure within a certain component such as within the gas reservoir 11 and the suspension system 4. One of the plurality of gauges 24 is positioned along the lap of the skier above the seat of the ski vehicle. This allows the skier to monitor the amount of pressure easily and constantly within their suspension system 4 and adjust the pressure as needed. Before the gas exits the gauge system 2 the gas passes through the valve switch 25. The valve switch 25 is positioned along the at least one gas line 13 leading to the lift assist system 3 and the suspension system 4. The valve switch 25 controls the gas flowing from the gauge system 2 to the lift assist system 3 and suspension system 4. So, the valve switch 25 is a device that can be rotated, shutting off one of the at least one gas line 13 leading to either the lift assist system 3 or the suspension system 4. This design allows for the skier to easily control where the gas from the gas reservoir 11 goes to.

[0025] The lift assist system 3 connects with the gauge system 2 via the at least one gas line 13. In its preferred embodiment the lift assist system 3 comprises a gas actuator 31 and a lift assist arm 32. The gas actuator 31 is fluidly coupled to the gauge system 2 to receive gas. The gas actuator 31 being mechanically coupled to the lift assist arm 32. As a result, the gas actuator 31 is a piston in a sealed chamber that moved back in forth that is gas powered designed to lift and lower the lift assist arm 32 shown in FIG. 10. The gas actuator 31 converts gas pressure to mechanical force wherein the lift arm is extended. Thus, the gas actuator 31 takes gas pressure and produces a mechanical force to push the attached lift assist arm 32 in a desired direction. The lift assist arm 32 is terminally positioned at the end of the gas actuator 31 with a pinned section along the frame of the ski vehicle. This allows the lift assist arm 32 to pivot upwards and downwards as the gas actuator 31 provides a vertical force. This design allows the skier to lift their ski vehicle up when using a ski chair lift that allows the user to easily be transported up the ski slope, instead of having to manually use their arms to manually lift themselves into the ski chair lift.

[0026] In an alternative embodiment the present invention could utilize multiple actuators or a hydraulic or electromechanical system. The lift assist system 3 comprises a plurality of gas actuator 31s. As a result, the plurality of gas actuator 31s provides a larger mechanical force than the singular gas actuator 31. The lift assist system 3 comprises a hydraulic actuator. So, the hydraulic actuator converts a fluid pressure, from a liquid to a mechanical force. The lift assist system 3 comprises an electromechanical actuator. So, the electromechanical actuator may turn electrical power into a mechanical force to move the lift assist arm 32.

[0027] The suspension system 4 connects with the gauge system 2 via the at least one gas line 13. Once the skier turns the valve switch 25 of the gauge system 2 the gas will flow towards the suspension system 4 when desired. In its preferred embodiment the suspension system 4 comprises a suspension device 41 and a suspension one way valve 43. The suspension device 41 is a cylindrical air shock that maintains a predetermined height level. Accordingly, the suspension device 41 absorbs shocks and bumps on the ski slope terrain. The suspension system 4 is coupled to the gauge system 2 via the at least one gas line 13. The suspension system 4 tension is controllable by the skier. Consequently, the skier can increase or decrease the amount of pressure within the suspension device 41 to allow for the skier to have a desired amount of pressure within the suspension device 41. This design allows for the skier to either have a firmer or more forgiving ride down the ski slope. The suspension device 41 can further be instantaneously adjusted with pressure by preloading or unloading the pressure. This design allows for the skier to depressurize the system when heading into a jump, lowering the suspension device 41, and repressurized the system when reaching the top of a ramp or jump in a move called ‘popping’ that allows the skier to navigate more difficult ski terrain, such as the ski park, allowing the skier to jump into the air. Furthermore, as the skier rides down a ski slope the natural bumps and downward force on the suspension system 4 can charge the suspension system 4 shown in FIG. 9. The suspension device 41 compresses gas wherein said gas passes through the suspension one way valve 43, back into the compressor system 1 This allows air to further be compressed while skiing down a slope and utilizes a suspension one way valve 43 to ensure the air then travels back towards the compressor system 1 creating a closed loop system 5.

[0028] In an alternative embodiment the Sit-ski can repressurize the system with a mechanical pump 42. The suspension system 4 comprises a mechanical pump 42. The mechanical pump 42 is mechanically coupled to the suspension device 41. Thus, the mechanical pump 42 is naturally compressed as the suspension device 41 is compressed during a decent down a ski slope. The mechanical pump 42 further comprises a pump one way valve 421. The compressed gas formed by the mechanical pump 42 flows through the pump one way valve 421 to the compressor system 1. As a result, when the mechanical pump 42 is compressed, pressurized gas will return back into the compressor system 1. With all the components working in tandem with each other it can be seen that, the present invention is a suspension system 4 for a ski vehicle or vehicle that traverses down a hill wherein the suspension system 4 may provide continuously adjustable pressure and a lift assist system 3 for easily lifting the user into a chair lift system.

[0029] Although the invention has been explained in relation to its preferred embodiment, it is to be understood that many other possible modifications and variations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as hereinafter claimed.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0020]All illustrations of the drawings are for the purpose of describing selected versions of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0021]The present invention is a suspension system 4 for a ski vehicle to help disabled skier traverse down a ski slope with adjustable pressure and easily lift into a chair lift at the bottom of a ski slope. The present invention seeks to provide users with a device that can absorb shocks and bumps on a ski slope terrain while providing an advanced way to jump by pre-loading pressure within the system when entering a jump and unloading the pressure as the rider leaves a ramp or jump. In order to accomplish this the present invention comprises a compressor system 1 that provides pressure to the present invention with either a constant flow or a short burst of pressure with a quick release valve 21. Further, the gauge system 2 is designed to allow the user to easily monitor their pressure within the prese...

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates generally to a suspension system 4. More specifically, the present invention is a suspension system 4 for a vehicle that provides suspension and chair lift assistance that recharges as a skier skis down a slope.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] A Sit-ski is a piece of equipment that falls under the umbrella of adaptive sports. A Sit-ski is commonly referred to as an adaptive Ski, Mono Ski, Uni ski or a Para ski. These terms are interchangeable but refer to the same piece of equipment. The user, who often is disabled in some way, can use a Sit-ski to ski much the same way as an able-bodied skier can. The Sit-ski comprises of a bucket seat on a deck with a leg brace and a foot plate, which assembly is suspended usually via a suspension unit to a base unit that directly sits in the bindings of the Ski or is attached directly to the Ski. The user rides the ski vehicle and performs turns to regulate speed, using out riggers for balance and turn initiation. Ski lifts vary but there are different techniques for each type. Sit-skis are equipped with a suspension system 4 that absorbs shocks and bumps in the terrain but also provides an advanced way to jump by preloading the pressure while entering the start of a ramp or jump and unloading it as they reach the top of the slope. The suspension system 4 is also adjustable to compensate for the surrounding environment such as altitude and temperature. An additional function of a suspension system 4 is its ability to absorb impact on jumping while providing greater ski control on the snow, where the ski’s contact with the snow is improved. Unfortunately, many of these Sit-skis do not provide a lift system to raise the bucket seat of the Sit-ski to allow the user to easily get into the chair lift system on a ski slope.

[0003] An objective of the present invention is to provide users with an air shock system, to help the skier navigate their way down a ski slope. The present invention intends to provide users with a device that can be easily adjusted and monitored while skiing down a ski slope. In order to accomplish that, a preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises a compressor system 1, a gauge system 2, a lift assist system 3, and a suspension system 4. Further, the suspension system 4 allows the present invention to recharge as the user goes down the ski slope. Thus, the present invention is a ski vehicle suspension system 4 that provides continuously adjustable pressure and a lift assist system 3 for easily lifting the user into a chair lift system.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0004] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the present invention.

[0005] FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the present invention.

[0006] FIG. 3 is a front view of the present invention.

[0007] FIG. 4 is a rear view of the present invention.

[0008] FIG. 5 is a right-side view of the present invention.

[0009] FIG. 6 is a left side view of the present invention.

[0010] FIG. 7 is a top view of the present invention.

[0011] FIG. 8 is a bottom view of the present invention.

[0012] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the present invention with the internal components.

[0013] FIG. 10 is a bottom perspective view of the present invention with the internal components.

[0014] FIG. 11 is a front view of the present invention with the internal components.

[0015] FIG. 12 is a front perspective view of the closed loop system without a sit ski.

[0016] FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of the closed loop system without a sit ski.

[0017] FIG. 14 is a rear perspective view of the closed loop system without a sit ski.

[0018] FIG. 15 is a block diagram of the closed loop system.

[0019] FIG. 16 is a side view of the closed loop system in a generic vehicle with an auxiliary electric pump.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0020] All illustrations of the drawings are for the purpose of describing selected versions of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0021] The present invention is a suspension system 4 for a ski vehicle to help disabled skier traverse down a ski slope with adjustable pressure and easily lift into a chair lift at the bottom of a ski slope. The present invention seeks to provide users with a device that can absorb shocks and bumps on a ski slope terrain while providing an advanced way to jump by pre-loading pressure within the system when entering a jump and unloading the pressure as the rider leaves a ramp or jump. In order to accomplish this the present invention comprises a compressor system 1 that provides pressure to the present invention with either a constant flow or a short burst of pressure with a quick release valve 21. Further, the gauge system 2 is designed to allow the user to easily monitor their pressure within the present invention and adjust it accordingly. Additionally, the lift assist system 3 is designed to utilize the pressure in the present invention to lift the skier onto a chair lift easily. Further, the suspension system 4 is designed to absorb shocks and bumps as the skier skis down a ski slope all while recharging the compressor system 1 creating a self-sustained closed loop system 5. The present invention may be integrated into a variety of vehicle types such as a sit ski, a ski vehicle, an all-terrain vehicle, a snow mobile, a motorbike, and any other similar vehicle that traverses down a hill or mountain. Thus, the present invention is a ski vehicle suspension system 4 that provides continuously adjustable pressure and a lift assist system 3 for easily lifting the user into a chair lift system.

[0022] As shown in FIG. 1-16, the present invention is a suspension system 4 for a ski vehicle. An objective of the present invention is to provide users with a device that absorbs shocks and bumps on ski slope terrain that recharges the system while traversing downhill. The present invention intends to provide users with a device that has a fully adjustable pressure level to allow the skier to load and unload pressure throughout skiing to traverse the slope and complete jumps. To accomplish this the present invention comprises a compressor system 1, a gauge system 2, a lift assist system 3 and a suspension system 4. Many of these components allow for the skier to monitor and instantaneously change the amount of pressure within the system. The compressor system 1 is fluidly coupled to the gauge system 2 via a compressor one way valve 14. As a result, the compressor system 1 is attached to the gauge system 2 wherein the compressor one-way valve regulates the direction of gas flow from the compressor system 1 to the gauge system 2. The gauge system 2 is fluidly coupled to both the lift assist system 3 and the suspension system 4. Furthermore, the suspension system 4 is fluidly coupled to the compressor system 1 wherein a closed loop system 5 is formed. Consequently, the closed loop system 5 provides a pressurized system through which the gas can travel. The gauge system 2 controls the amount of pressure within the closed loop system 5. Accordingly, the gauge system 2 enables the skier to manually adjust the amount of pressure within the closed loop system 5 of the present invention. Thus, the present invention is a suspension system 4 for a vehicle or ski vehicle that provides continuously adjustable pressure and a lift assist system 3 for easily lifting the skier into a chair lift system.

[0023] The present invention allows a skier to traverse down a ski slope while recharging the present invention, making it self-sufficient. The compressor system 1 provides a gas to the present invention, allowing various systems and components to move or withstand external forces. In its preferred embodiment the compressor system 1 further comprises a gas reservoir 11, a gas compressor 12, and a compressor one way valve 14. The gas reservoir 11 is positioned along the side of the present invention whereas shown in FIG. 1. The gas reservoir 11 is configured to store a gas. Thus, the gas reservoir 11 may store a gas, such as air, within the closed loop system 5 until the gas is needed. The gas reservoir 11 is designed with a large metal material that retains its shape when pressurized. In an alternative embodiment the gas reservoir 11 is removable. So, a plug-in canister can be utilized such as a CO2 canister. The gas reservoir 11 is coupled to the gas compressor 12. The gas compressor 12 forces gas into the gauge system 2. As a result, potential energy can be stored for various uses within the present invention. The compressor system 1 is connected to the gauge system 2 via at least one gas line 13, wherein the at least one gas line 13 connects the compressor system 1 to the gauge system 2 to the lift system, to the suspension system 4 wherein the suspension system 4 connects back to the compressor system 1. The compressor one way valve 14 controls the flow of gas within the at least one gas line 13. Along the at least one gas line 13 in between the gas reservoir 11 and the gauge system 2 is the compressor one way valve 14. The compressor one way valve 14 is a valve that limits the flow of gas in one direction. This design ensures that the gas within the gas reservoir 11 can only flow outwards towards the gauge system 2. It should be further noted that, the compressor system 1 can be created in many various shapes and sizes and the gas compressor 12 could be designed in various ways while still staying within the scope of the present invention.

[0024] The gauge system 2 connects with the compressor system 1 via the at least one gas line 13 shown in FIG. 11. In its preferred embodiment the gauge system 2 comprises a quick release valve 21, a pressure release button 22, a pressure tap 23, a plurality of gauges 24, and a valve switch 25. The pressure tap 23 is a button that can be pressed inwards to release gas from the gas reservoir 11 at a steady rate. The pressure tap 23 is positioned between the gas reservoir 11 and the pressure release button 22. As a result the pressure tap 23 enables the lift system or suspension system 4 to become pressurized to the skiers desired pressure. The pressure tap 23 is configured to release gas from the gas reservoir 11 at a steady rate. Furthermore, the quick release valve 21 is positioned adjacent to the pressure tap 23. The quick release valve 21 controls short bursts of pressure from the gas reservoir 11 to the suspension system 4. Consequently, the quick release valve 21 is a valve, that when triggered, quickly sends a burst of pressure from the gas reservoir 11 to the suspension system 4. Further along the gauge system 2 is the pressure release button 22. The pressure release button 22 controls the pressure level of the closed loop system 5. Accordingly, the pressure release button 22 is a mechanical button that moves to release gas out of the present invention depressurizing the system. Connected after each of these components is the plurality of gauges 24. The plurality of gauges 24 is positioned before the valve switch 25. Thus, the plurality of gauges 24 monitors and displays the amount of pressure within a certain component such as within the gas reservoir 11 and the suspension system 4. One of the plurality of gauges 24 is positioned along the lap of the skier above the seat of the ski vehicle. This allows the skier to monitor the amount of pressure easily and constantly within their suspension system 4 and adjust the pressure as needed. Before the gas exits the gauge system 2 the gas passes through the valve switch 25. The valve switch 25 is positioned along the at least one gas line 13 leading to the lift assist system 3 and the suspension system 4. The valve switch 25 controls the gas flowing from the gauge system 2 to the lift assist system 3 and suspension system 4. So, the valve switch 25 is a device that can be rotated, shutting off one of the at least one gas line 13 leading to either the lift assist system 3 or the suspension system 4. This design allows for the skier to easily control where the gas from the gas reservoir 11 goes to.

[0025] The lift assist system 3 connects with the gauge system 2 via the at least one gas line 13. In its preferred embodiment the lift assist system 3 comprises a gas actuator 31 and a lift assist arm 32. The gas actuator 31 is fluidly coupled to the gauge system 2 to receive gas. The gas actuator 31 being mechanically coupled to the lift assist arm 32. As a result, the gas actuator 31 is a piston in a sealed chamber that moved back in forth that is gas powered designed to lift and lower the lift assist arm 32 shown in FIG. 10. The gas actuator 31 converts gas pressure to mechanical force wherein the lift arm is extended. Thus, the gas actuator 31 takes gas pressure and produces a mechanical force to push the attached lift assist arm 32 in a desired direction. The lift assist arm 32 is terminally positioned at the end of the gas actuator 31 with a pinned section along the frame of the ski vehicle. This allows the lift assist arm 32 to pivot upwards and downwards as the gas actuator 31 provides a vertical force. This design allows the skier to lift their ski vehicle up when using a ski chair lift that allows the user to easily be transported up the ski slope, instead of having to manually use their arms to manually lift themselves into the ski chair lift.

[0026] In an alternative embodiment the present invention could utilize multiple actuators or a hydraulic or electromechanical system. The lift assist system 3 comprises a plurality of gas actuator 31s. As a result, the plurality of gas actuator 31s provides a larger mechanical force than the singular gas actuator 31. The lift assist system 3 comprises a hydraulic actuator. So, the hydraulic actuator converts a fluid pressure, from a liquid to a mechanical force. The lift assist system 3 comprises an electromechanical actuator. So, the electromechanical actuator may turn electrical power into a mechanical force to move the lift assist arm 32.

[0027] The suspension system 4 connects with the gauge system 2 via the at least one gas line 13. Once the skier turns the valve switch 25 of the gauge system 2 the gas will flow towards the suspension system 4 when desired. In its preferred embodiment the suspension system 4 comprises a suspension device 41 and a suspension one way valve 43. The suspension device 41 is a cylindrical air shock that maintains a predetermined height level. Accordingly, the suspension device 41 absorbs shocks and bumps on the ski slope terrain. The suspension system 4 is coupled to the gauge system 2 via the at least one gas line 13. The suspension system 4 tension is controllable by the skier. Consequently, the skier can increase or decrease the amount of pressure within the suspension device 41 to allow for the skier to have a desired amount of pressure within the suspension device 41. This design allows for the skier to either have a firmer or more forgiving ride down the ski slope. The suspension device 41 can further be instantaneously adjusted with pressure by preloading or unloading the pressure. This design allows for the skier to depressurize the system when heading into a jump, lowering the suspension device 41, and repressurized the system when reaching the top of a ramp or jump in a move called ‘popping’ that allows the skier to navigate more difficult ski terrain, such as the ski park, allowing the skier to jump into the air. Furthermore, as the skier rides down a ski slope the natural bumps and downward force on the suspension system 4 can charge the suspension system 4 shown in FIG. 9. The suspension device 41 compresses gas wherein said gas passes through the suspension one way valve 43, back into the compressor system 1 This allows air to further be compressed while skiing down a slope and utilizes a suspension one way valve 43 to ensure the air then travels back towards the compressor system 1 creating a closed loop system 5.

[0028] In an alternative embodiment the Sit-ski can repressurize the system with a mechanical pump 42. The suspension system 4 comprises a mechanical pump 42. The mechanical pump 42 is mechanically coupled to the suspension device 41. Thus, the mechanical pump 42 is naturally compressed as the suspension device 41 is compressed during a decent down a ski slope. The mechanical pump 42 further comprises a pump one way valve 421. The compressed gas formed by the mechanical pump 42 flows through the pump one way valve 421 to the compressor system 1. As a result, when the mechanical pump 42 is compressed, pressurized gas will return back into the compressor system 1. With all the components working in tandem with each other it can be seen that, the present invention is a suspension system 4 for a ski vehicle or vehicle that traverses down a hill wherein the suspension system 4 may provide continuously adjustable pressure and a lift assist system 3 for easily lifting the user into a chair lift system.

[0029] Although the invention has been explained in relation to its preferred embodiment, it is to be understood that many other possible modifications and variations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as hereinafter claimed.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0020]All illustrations of the drawings are for the purpose of describing selected versions of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0021]The present invention is a suspension system 4 for a ski vehicle to help disabled skier traverse down a ski slope with adjustable pressure and easily lift into a chair lift at the bottom of a ski slope. The present invention seeks to provide users with a device that can absorb shocks and bumps on a ski slope terrain while providing an advanced way to jump by pre-loading pressure within the system when entering a jump and unloading the pressure as the rider leaves a ramp or jump. In order to accomplish this the present invention comprises a compressor system 1 that provides pressure to the present invention with either a constant flow or a short burst of pressure with a quick release valve 21. Further, the gauge system 2 is designed to allow the user to easily monitor their pressure within the prese...

Claims

1. A suspension system for a vehicle comprising:a compressor system, a gauge system, a lift assist system, and a suspension system;the compressor system being fluidly coupled to the gauge system via a compressor one way valve;the gauge system being fluidly coupled to both the lift system and the suspension system;the suspension system being fluidly coupled to the compressor system wherein a closed loop system is formed; andthe gauge system controlling the amount of pressure within the closed loop system.

2. The suspension system for a vehicle as claimed in claim 1 comprising:the compressor system further comprises a gas reservoir, a gas compressor, and the compressor one way valve;the gas reservoir is positioned along the side of the present invention;the gas reservoir being configured to store a gas;the gas reservoir being coupled to the gas compressor;the gas compressor forcing gas into the gauge system;the gas compressor being coupled to the gauge system via at least one gas line; andthe compressor one way valve controlling the flow of gas within the at least one gas line.

3. The suspension system for a vehicle as claimed in claim 2 wherein the gas reservoir being removable.

4. The suspension system for a vehicle as claimed in claim 2 comprising:the gauge system comprising a quick release valve, a pressure release button, a pressure tap, a plurality of gauges, and a valve switch;the pressure tap being positioned between the gas reservoir and the pressure release button;the pressure tap being configured to release gas from the gas reservoir at a steady rate;the quick release valve being positioned adjacent to the pressure tap;the quick release valve controlling short bursts of pressure from the gas reservoir to the suspension system;the pressure release button controlling the pressure level of the closed loop system;the valve switch being positioned along the at least one gas line leading to the lift assist system and the suspension system; andthe valve switch controlling the gas flowing from the gauge system to the lift assist system and suspension system.

5. The suspension system for a vehicle as claimed in claim 4 comprising:the lift assist system comprising a gas actuator and a lift assist arm;the gas actuator being fluidly coupled to the gauge system to receive gas;the gas actuator being mechanically coupled to the lift assist arm; andthe gas actuator converting gas pressure to mechanical force wherein the lift assist arm is extended.

6. The suspension system for a vehicle as claimed in claim 5 comprising:the lift assist system comprising a plurality of gas actuators;the lift assist system comprising a hydraulic actuator; andthe lift assist system comprising an electromechanical actuator.

7. The suspension system for a vehicle as claimed in claim 4 comprising:the suspension system comprising a suspension device and a suspension one way valve;the suspension system being coupled to the gauge system via the at least one gas line;the suspension device being a cylindrical air shock that maintains a predetermined height level;the suspension system tension being controllable by the skier; andthe suspension device compressing gas wherein said gas passes through the suspension one way valve, back into the compressor system.

8. The suspension system for a vehicle as claimed in claim 7 comprising:the suspension system comprising a mechanical pump;the mechanical pump being mechanically coupled to the suspension device;the mechanical pump further comprising a pump one way valve; andthe compressed gas formed by the mechanical pump flowing through the pump one way valve to the compressor system.

9. A suspension system for a vehicle comprising:a compressor system, a gauge system, a lift assist system, and a suspension system;the compressor system being fluidly coupled to the gauge system via a compressor one way valve;the gauge system being fluidly coupled to both the lift system and the suspension system;the suspension system being fluidly coupled to the compressor system wherein a closed loop system is formed;the gauge system controlling the amount of pressure within the closed loop system;the compressor system further comprises a gas reservoir, a gas compressor, and the compressor one way valve; andthe compressor one way valve controlling the flow of gas within the at least one gas line.

10. The suspension system for a vehicle as claimed in claim 9 comprising:the gas reservoir is positioned along the side of the present invention;the gas reservoir being configured to store a gas;the gas reservoir being coupled to the gas compressor;the gas compressor forcing gas into the gauge system; andthe gas compressor being coupled to the gauge system via at least one gas line.

11. The suspension system for a vehicle as claimed in claim 10 wherein the gas reservoir being removable.

12. The suspension system for a vehicle as claimed in claim 10 comprising:the gauge system comprising a quick release valve, a pressure release button, a pressure tap, a plurality of gauges, and a valve switch;the pressure tap being positioned between the gas reservoir and the pressure release button;the pressure tap being configured to release gas from the gas reservoir at a steady rate;the quick release valve being positioned adjacent to the pressure tap;the quick release valve controlling short bursts of pressure from the gas reservoir to the suspension system;the pressure release button controlling the pressure level of the closed loop system;the valve switch being positioned along the at least one gas line leading to the lift assist system and the suspension system; andthe valve switch controlling the gas flowing from the gauge system to the lift assist system and suspension system.

13. The suspension system for a vehicle as claimed in claim 12 comprising:the lift assist system comprising a plurality of gas actuators;the gas actuator being fluidly coupled to the gauge system to receive gas;the gas actuator being mechanically coupled to the lift assist arm; andthe gas actuator converting gas pressure to mechanical force wherein the lift assist arm is extended.

14. The suspension system for a vehicle as claimed in claim 13 comprising:the lift assist system comprising a hydraulic actuator; andthe lift assist system comprising an electromechanical actuator.

15. The suspension system for a vehicle as claimed in claim 12 comprising:the suspension system comprising a suspension device and a suspension one way valve;the suspension system being coupled to the gauge system via the at least one gas line;the suspension device being a cylindrical air shock that maintains a predetermined height level;the suspension system tension being controllable by the skier;the suspension device compressing gas wherein said gas passes through the suspension one way valve, back into the compressor system;the suspension system comprising a mechanical pump;the mechanical pump being mechanically coupled to the suspension device;the mechanical pump further comprising a pump one way valve; andthe compressed gas formed by the mechanical pump flowing through the pump one way valve to the compressor system.

16. A suspension system for a vehicle comprising:a compressor system, a gauge system, a lift assist system, and a suspension system;the compressor system being fluidly coupled to the gauge system via a compressor one way valve;the gauge system being fluidly coupled to both the lift system and the suspension system;the suspension system being fluidly coupled to the compressor system wherein a closed loop system is formed;the gauge system controlling the amount of pressure within the closed loop system;the compressor system further comprises a gas reservoir, a gas compressor, and the compressor one way valve;the compressor one way valve controlling the flow of gas within the at least one gas line;the gas reservoir is positioned along the side of the present invention;the gas reservoir being configured to store a gas;the gas reservoir being coupled to the gas compressor;the gas compressor forcing gas into the gauge system;the gas compressor being coupled to the gauge system via at least one gas line; andthe gauge system comprising a quick release valve, a pressure release button, a pressure tap, a plurality of gauges, and a valve switch.

17. The suspension system for a vehicle as claimed in claim 16 wherein the gas reservoir being removable.

18. The suspension system for a vehicle as claimed in claim 16 comprising:the pressure tap being positioned between the gas reservoir and the pressure release button;the pressure tap being configured to release gas from the gas reservoir at a steady rate;the quick release valve being positioned adjacent to the pressure tap;the quick release valve controlling short bursts of pressure from the gas reservoir to the suspension system;the pressure release button controlling the pressure level of the closed loop system;the valve switch being positioned along the at least one gas line leading to the lift assist system and the suspension system; andthe valve switch controlling the gas flowing from the gauge system to the lift assist system and suspension system.

19. The suspension system for a vehicle as claimed in claim 18 comprising:the lift assist system comprising a plurality of gas actuators;the gas actuator being fluidly coupled to the gauge system to receive gas;the gas actuator being mechanically coupled to the lift assist arm;the gas actuator converting gas pressure to mechanical force wherein the lift assist arm is extended;the lift assist system comprising a hydraulic actuator; andthe lift assist system comprising an electromechanical actuator.

20. The suspension system for a vehicle as claimed in claim 18 comprising:the suspension system comprising a suspension device and a suspension one way valve;the suspension system being coupled to the gauge system via the at least one gas line;the suspension device being a cylindrical air shock that maintains a predetermined height level;the suspension system tension being controllable by the skier;the suspension device compressing gas wherein said gas passes through the suspension one way valve, back into the compressor system;the suspension system comprising a mechanical pump;the mechanical pump being mechanically coupled to the suspension device;the mechanical pump further comprising a pump one way valve; andthe compressed gas formed by the mechanical pump flowing through the pump one way valve to the compressor system.

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