Ski device drivetrain and method

Abstract

Drivetrains and methods of manufacturing drivetrains. The drivetrain includes a static section mounted rigidly to an object to be propelled, a biased section pivotally connected to the static section by at least a first bar and at least a second bar, a track extending through the static section and the biased section, wherein the track is configured to contact a surface to propel the object; and the first bar and the second bar each connect the biased section with the static section to create a linkage arrangement that biases the biased section toward the surface so the track remains in contact with the surface across various types of terrain to propel the object.

Description

SKI DEVICE DRIVETRAIN AND METHODCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims the benefit of and priority to co-pending United States provisional application, nos. 63 / 634,930 and 63 / 635,914, filed on April 17, 2024, and April 18, 2024, respectively, the entire disclosures of each of which are incorporated by reference as if set forth in their entirety herein.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] Embodiments described herein generally relate to transportation equipment and, more particularly but not exclusively, to ski devices and other devices for maneuvering in snowy or icy environments.BACKGROUND

[0003] Traditional ski devices are bulky and awkward to transport or use over long distances. Their use requires a great deal of physical effort, which limits the number of people who can use them over long or flat distances.

[0004] Motorized skis have been developed in which traditional skis are fitted with a so- called “ski tow.” These devices are generally mounted to a portion of the ski or directly to the user and include a motor-driven belt attached to the ski. However, these existing devices are large, complex, and bulky.

[0005] Additionally, wheels tend to sink into loose surfaces and any slippage causes the wheel to remove material from the ground below it, thereby creating a cavity below the wheel. Continuous spinning of the wheel will grow the cavity, which makes it more difficult to free the wheel and causes the ski to be stuck.

[0006] Other existing track-based systems have inherent disadvantages. For example, some track systems do not use a suspension within the track itself. Rather, a track is rigidly constructed and then suspended with respect to the main body of the object to be moved. In some cases, the track is rigidly mounted to the object itself and has no suspension system.

[0007] A need exists, therefore, for ski devices and methods that overcome the disadvantages of existing devices.SUMMARY

[0008] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description section. This summary is not intended to identify or exclude key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0009] In one aspect, embodiments relate to a drivetrain. The drivetrain includes a static section mounted rigidly to an object to be propelled; a biased section pivotally connected to the static section by at least a first top bar and at least a second bottom bar; and a track extending through the static section and the biased section, wherein the track is configured to contact a surface to propel the object; wherein the first bar and the second bar each connect the biased section with the static section to create a linkage arrangement that biases the biased section toward the surface so the track remains in contact with the surface across various types of terrain to propel the object.

[0010] In some embodiments, the first bar has a first length, and the second bar has a second length that is different than the first length.

[0011] In some embodiments, at least one of the static section or biased section are connectable to the first bar at a plurality of locations on the first bar, or the length of the first bar is directly adjustable, to adjust a length between the static section and the biased section.

[0012] In some embodiments, an angle between the static section and the biased section is variable so that the biased section remains in contact with the surface across various types of terrain so that the track can engage the various types of terrain.

[0013] In some embodiments, the drivetrain further includes a frame that constrains the track such that the track remains longitudinally aligned with the object being propelled.

[0014] In some embodiments, the drivetrain further includes a suspension component that extends between the static section and biased section.

[0015] In some embodiments, the drivetrain further includes at least one connection mechanism to enable a drivetrain to be removably connectable from the object being propelled. In some embodiments, the drivetrain further includes a power source removably connectable to the object being propelled and configured to supply power to the drivetrain.

[0016] In some embodiments, a first type of surface causes a bottom surface of the biased section and a bottom surface of the static section to be approximately coplanar with each otherand create a single approximately coplanar surface of the track that is in contact with the ground surface being travelled upon, and a second type of surface causes at least one section of the track to be non-coplanar and non-parallel with a bottom surface of the object and assist in packing and gripping material generally below the object.

[0017] According to another aspect, embodiments relate to a method of manufacturing a drivetrain. The method includes providing a static section configured to be operably connected to an object to be propelled in a removable manner; connecting a biased section with the static section such that the biased section is pivotally connected to the static section, wherein the static section and the biased section are pivotally connected via at least a first bar and a second bar; and configuring the static section and the biased section with a track, wherein the first bar and the second bar bias the biased section to remain in contact with a surface across various types of terrain so the track remains in contact with the surface across various types of terrain to propel the object.

[0018] In some embodiments, the first bar has a first length, and the second bar has a second length that is different than the first length.

[0019] In some embodiments, at least one of the static section or biased section are connectable to the first bar at a plurality of locations on the first bar to adjust a length between the static section and the biased section.

[0020] In some embodiments, an angle between the sliding plane of the object and the static section and at least one of the first bar or the second bar is variable so that the biased section remains in contact with the surface across various types of terrain so that the track can engage the various types of terrain.

[0021] In some embodiments, the method further includes constraining the track in a frame such that the track remains longitudinally aligned with the object.

[0022] In some embodiments, the method further includes extending a suspension component between the static section and the biased section.

[0023] In some embodiments, the method further includes configuring the object to be propelled with a connection mechanism to enable a drivetrain to be removably connectable from the object being propelled.

[0024] In some embodiments, the method further includes connecting a removable power source to the object to be propelled.

[0025] In some embodiments, a first type of surface causes a bottom surface of the biased section and a bottom surface of the static section to be approximately coplanar with each other and create a single approximately coplanar surface of the track that is in contact with the ground surface being travelled upon, and a second type of surface causes at least one section of the track to be non-coplanar and non-parallel with a bottom surface of the object and assist in packing and gripping material generally below the object.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0026] Non-limiting and non-exhaustive embodiments of this disclosure are described with reference to the following figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the various views unless otherwise specified.

[0027] FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of a drivetrain and a ski device in accordance with one embodiment;

[0028] FIG. 2 illustrates a top view of the ski device of FIG. 1 in accordance with one embodiment;

[0029] FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of a drivetrain in accordance with one embodiment;

[0030] FIG. 4 illustrates the drivetrain of FIG. 3 in a first position in accordance with one embodiment;

[0031] FIG. 5 illustrates the drivetrain of FIG. 3 in a second position in accordance with one embodiment; and

[0032] FIG. 6 depicts a flowchart of a method for manufacturing a drivetrain in accordance with one embodiment.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] Various embodiments are described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and which show specific exemplary embodiments. However, the concepts of the present disclosure may be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided as part of a thorough and complete disclosure, to fully convey the scope of the concepts, techniques and implementations of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art. Embodiments may be practiced as methods, systems or devices. Accordingly, embodiments may take the form of a hardware implementation, an entirelysoftware implementation or an implementation combining software and hardware aspects. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.

[0034] Reference in the specification to “one embodiment” or to “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiments is included in at least one example implementation or technique in accordance with the present disclosure. The appearances of the phrase “in one embodiment” in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. The appearances of the phrase “in some embodiments” in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiments.

[0035] In addition, the language used in the specification has been principally selected for readability and instructional purposes and may not have been selected to delineate or circumscribe the disclosed subject matter. Accordingly, the present disclosure is intended to be illustrative, and not limiting, of the scope of the concepts discussed herein.

[0036] Existing track systems such as those used for snow vehicles typically implement an internal suspension and linkage setup in tracks that maintain a set perimeter. This may be ideal when the snow vehicle has multiple mounting locations for track wheels. Snowmobiles typically have a tunnel that runs over the length of the track and allows for wheels or other contact points to be mounted in a quadrilateral arrangement with an upper rear wheel as well. The overall geometry of the track therefore experiences less variation over the range of motion of the linkage and suspension movement. This limitation in the overall geometry requires the range of motion to be more constrained.

[0037] The embodiments herein provide novel drivetrains and methods for ski devices. In the context of the present application, the term “ski device” and variations thereof may refer to skis of various sizes and types, such as cross-country skis, touring skis, racing skis, freestyle skis, carving skis, or any other type of ski device whether available now or invented hereafter. “Ski device” may also refer to other types of sporting equipment such as snowboards, snow skates, or any other type of devices for maneuvering over snow-like or icy environments.

[0038] The drivetrains described herein may operate in a variety of other environments, too. The surface or ground over which the ski device travels may be anything from a granular surface such as snow, dirt, mud, or sand, to a more rigid surface such as ice or densely-packed snow. As such, it has the potential for use on cross-country ski trails, snowmobile trails, or the like.

[0039] The drivetrains described herein may include an endless track configured to contact a ground surface below or otherwise adjacent to the ski device, and a propulsion device such as a motor to operate the track to propel the ski device. The drivetrain may also include a static section configured to be operably connected to the ski device, and a biased section pivotally attached to the static section. The biased section is configured to apply a variable force on the endless track so that the track remains and contacts with and applies a traction force to the ground across various types of terrain.

[0040] The drivetrain may be longitudinally aligned with the ski device and may partially rest on the ski device surface via a connection between the static section and the ski device. A suspension component may be positioned between the static and biased sections to provide an amount of suspension or a damping effect for the drivetrain.

[0041] The drivetrain may include a plurality of bars connecting the static section and the biased section. Theses bars, along with any spring, suspension, or biasing portions, may bias the biased section toward the surface on which the ski device is traveling. This forces the biased section, and therefore the track, to remain in contact with the surface across various types of terrain.

[0042] As the ski device moves over terrain, the ski device at least partially compresses the surface before the track reaches the compressed surface. The snow or other material is therefore more likely to be sufficiently packed as it interacts with the track, which leads to greater efficiency and performance.

[0043] For example, a divot in the snow caused by a footprint may be filled by surrounding snow when the ski device travels over the divot. This area would be relatively smooth by the time the track contacts the area. Having the track longitudinally aligned with the ski device enables the track to grip more surface than a track that is not longitudinally aligned. Additionally, a ski device with a lower surface area will exert a greater pressure on the terrain surface and compress it more than a wider and / or longer ski device.

[0044] The drivetrain in accordance with the described embodiments achieves a smaller size and reduced weight compared to existing devices, while also incorporating a propulsion device. This allows the ski device(s) described herein to provide users with an assisted travel experience without sacrificing transportability. This assistance is helpful for climbing mild to moderate hills as well as crossing long distances, thereby allowing greater enjoyment of the user’ s surrounding environment.

[0045] FIG. 1 illustrates a drivetrain 100 operably connected with a ski device 102 in accordance with one embodiment. FIG. 2 illustrates a top view of the ski device 102. The drivetrain 100 or components thereof may be removably secured to the ski device 102.

[0046] If the drivetrain 100 is removed, a user may then use the ski device 102 as they would use a normal ski. The drivetrain 100 or components thereof may be removably secured to the ski device 102 via any one or more of rails, clips, hook-and-loop fasteners, or other fixture methods that can allow the drivetrain 100 to be detached from the ski device 102, such as by using screws, pins, or other mechanical means. In these embodiments, the drivetrain 100 is positioned toward the rear of the ski device 102.

[0047] The drivetrain 100 may be formed from a plurality of mechanical components and linkages. This internal structure may be made from plates of plastic, composites such as carbon fiber or fiberglass, or metal, or may be made of beams or supports that are joined to form a rigid frame. Using beams to join or reinforce plates in parallel may create sturdier frames for the drivetrain 100.

[0048] These frames may form a static section 104 and a biased section 106. The static section 104 may be mounted to the ski device 102 as in FIGS. 1 and 2. The biased section 106 may be pivotably connected to the static section 104 and configured to move in response to external forces applied thereon by a suspension component 108 or the ground surface on which the ski device 102 is moving.

[0049] The suspension component 108 may make use of one or more mounting points to allow the suspension component 108 to apply force to an entire subsystem of components of the biased section 106. The application of force and / or the way it is applied may be additionally dependent on the bars or linkages connecting the biased section 106 and the static section 104. As seen in FIG. 1, one side of the suspension component 108 is affixed to the static section 104 and the other side is mounted to the biased section 106.

[0050] As seen in FIGS. 1 and 2, the ski device 102 also includes a front binding 110 and a rear binding 112 for securing a user (not shown in FIG. 1), and a battery 114. The bindings 110 and 112 may include downhill bindings, Nordic bindings, touring bindings, alpine-touring bindings, system bindings, demo bindings, custom bindings, or the like. The front and rear bindings may also be combined into a single binding part. In a snowboard or similar application, this may also refer to snowboard bindings. The bindings may also be replacedwith any component used for mounting, holding, or maintaining contact between the user’s body and the ski device.

[0051] The suspension component(s) 108 may not only provide a dampening effect, but may also bias the biased section 106 toward the ground. Specifically, the suspension component 108 may apply an outward force on a rail, idler wheel, bearing assembly, or an entire structure so that a track 116 may be tensioned and biased against the surface below the ski device 102. The suspension component 108 may comprise a spring and damper, air shock, a simple spring, a leaf spring, or any other flexible plastic, composite, or metal structure to allow the track to bend and flex with the terrain, thereby increasing traction from the track 116.

[0052] The suspension component 108 may also be adjustable to allow for a harder or softer experience. This could be done with a screw-based system or other device that, when used, would increase or decrease the compression of a suspension spring. Providing a softer suspension could be ideal for a smoother ride on rough terrain, and a harder suspension could be ideal for smoother terrain such as ice to allow for increased traction. The adjustment in the suspension component 108 may also help users of varying weight calibrate the ski device 102 for their comfort and ease of handling. Alternatively, the spring rate and dampening values of the suspension component 108 may simply be permanently set during the manufacturing process after accounting for the characteristics of the user and / or the terrain they will be experiencing.

[0053] The drivetrain 100 may be longitudinally centered on the ski device 102 so that the track 116 may remain in line with the ski device 102 and run between the static section 104 and the biased section 106. The track 116 may have an outer pattern with lugs, grooves, or paddles (for simplicity, “lugs”) to grip and pull through the snow or other type of ground surface, thereby propelling the ski device 102 and the user forward. The track 116 may also be created with a textured outer surface or another pattern allowing it to adequately grip the snow. The track 116 may also be constructed with an outer surface resembling a ski skin with fibers or other extruded portions that interact and provide traction on the snow surface. Any of these features may be combined to provide an improved traction experience.

[0054] The track 116 may be constructed a textured or patterned surface to improve traction on multiple types of surfaces. The track 116 may be made of a variety of materials. For example, the track 116 may be constructed entirely from plastic or rubber; plastic or rubber reinforced with layers of flexible fabric, aramid, carbon fiber, flax, composite, or fiberglass; orrubber or plastic with metal, ceramic, or even plastic reinforcement. Multiple kinds of plastics may be used in the construction of the track 116. Combining a flexible, soft material such as polyurethane or TPU, TPE, LDPE, or EVA with structurally strong materials such as nylon variants, Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (“ABS”), polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG), PE-variants, fabrics, fibrous materials, aramids, composites, or other materials may create a track component that is compliant, durable, and provides a grip force while still having the required tensile strength, yield strength, and overall characteristics to apply power from the drivetrain 100 to the ground surface.

[0055] The track 116 may also have other materials on the outer lugs to improve grip on a greater variety of surfaces or to improve wear resistance. For example, the track 116 may include stud components to improve grip on icy terrain. A track 116 may also be made of any other flexible material such as a plastic, or a rigid material with joints to allow the track 116 to flex around wheels 118. Flexible tracks 116 may also have joints to make them conform even better to the curvature of the wheels 118.

[0056] On the inner side of the track 116, lugs or extrusions (not shown) may interface with the one or more wheels 118. The lugs may be made of a wide variety of material, e.g., the same material as the track 116, a metal, a plastic, or rubber. Although the track 116 may have lugs, the wheels 118 may also be made with lugs or teeth protruding from the main body of the wheel to interface with the track 116 with matching spaces or notches of the track 116.

[0057] The track 116 may be removable from the drivetrain 100 for repair or replacement. For example, a user may remove a broken or damaged track and replace it with a new track. Additionally or alternatively, a user may change tracks based on the terrain type. If the user were attempting to ski over ice, they may use tracks with metal spikes to increase traction. The user may later swap that track out for a softer one that is better suited for travel over snow or slush.

[0058] If one or more wheels 118 or hub motors are located such that they are at least approximately flush with or raised above the bottom surface of the ski device 102, the track 116 may form an approximately triangular shape when the drivetrain 100 is over a firm surface by combining the leading surface and main contact surface of the track 116. This may create an overall larger and better performing contact surface for travel on firmer terrain such as ice or densely-packed snow. However, softer ground may cause the bottom of the biased section 106 and track 116 to sink “below” the bottom surface of the ski device 102, which may createtwo non-coplanar surfaces of the track 116 that pass over and compress the surface terrain. In some cases, one of the surfaces on the leading part of the track 116 may provide an additional compression force on the ground surface after the ski device passes over the ground surface. A second section of the track 116 may then interface with the now-compressed granular material being output by the first surface of the track 116, and provide approximately forwards motion. The second section may typically be larger than the first as it may provide the majority of the traction force to the ground. The second section may be at least approximately parallel to the bottom plane of the static section, or angled at some degree to provide additional compression along its entire length to further increase traction. The first and second surface sections of the track 116 may also both be at least partially responsible for compression and / or at least partially responsible for ski device motion.

[0059] One or more of the wheels 118 may be configured to use a single axle. For the track 116 to be adequately supported, the total wheel surface area in contact with the track 116 from a single axle must be sufficient. A single wheel may be created with the adequate width. Alternatively, multiple wheels 118 may be placed on one axle to provide additional support for the track 116.

[0060] The wheels 118 may be constructed using one or more of a variety of materials. In some embodiments, one or more of the wheels 118 may be formed from a metal such as steel, aluminum, titanium, or an alloy. Possible composites include, but are not limited to, carbon, natural, or glass fibers. One or more of the wheels 118 may be made of plastics such as ABS, Nylon, PETG, PU, TPU, TPE, EVA, PE, glass-filled variants of plastics, or others with a rigid or semi-rigid construction.

[0061] The wheels 118 may also employ a combination of materials such that certain portions of the wheel exhibit physical properties different from others. For example, the wheels 118 may use a composite, metal, plastic, glass-filled plastic, or rigid interior structure with an outer layer of more durable and / or flexible material to reduce vibration and wear on the track 116. The wheels 118 may also have a hardened outer layer to reduce wear to the wheel over time.

[0062] FIG. 2 illustrates components 120 and 122 as potential add-on parts to the ski device 102. These may mount to the ski device 102 using the same type of system or device that is used to attach the drivetrain 100 to the ski device 102. Component 122 may be part of a ski device or another sliding element that may be used to extend the length of the ski device 102for normal skiing use. Component 120 may be mounted to the sliding component 122 and used to affix the component 122 to the ski device 102. The component 120 may be made of a variety of materials, but should be strong enough to securely mount the component 122 to the ski device 102. In this case, the component 122 may interface with component 120 to form a solid connection and provide an improved user experience. The component 122 may be made of a variety of materials such as wood, plastic, UHMWPE, metal, fiberglass, composite, fabrics, aramids, resins, and others, but may preferably have a lower surface and / or general characteristics that are similar to the ski device to which it is being attached.

[0063] FIG. 2 does not illustrate the battery 114, but instead a receptacle 124 for removably securing the battery 114 and, similarly, a receptacle 126 for removably securing the drivetrain 100. For example, a user may remove the battery 114 from the ski device 102 for charging, replacement, or the like. The battery 114 or other components associated with the drivetrain 100 may be removably secured to the ski device 102 via any one or more of rails, clips, pins, latches, spring-loaded latches, hook-and-loop fasteners, or other fixture methods that can allow the overall powertrain to be detached from the ski device 102, such as by using screws, pins, or other mechanical means.

[0064] These features may be useful in situations such as if the battery 114 died and the user is not close to a charging location. Accordingly, it may be beneficial for the user to remove the drivetrain 100 or battery 114 from the ski device 102, and carry or store the drivetrain 100 or battery 114 in a backpack.

[0065] The track design described above may require a tensioning system to maintain internal friction and reduce vibration and sag to function well with the rest of the components of the drivetrain 100. This tensioning system may comprise an adjustable rear wheel(s) which remains rigidly in place after adjustment. A more complex, dynamic tensioning system may also be used instead of a fixed method. This type of tensioning system may include a springtype device that applies a tensioning force to one or more of the wheels in the track system. A load may be applied to the wheels via an axle, wherein the axle is mounted to the tensioning system and free to move, or the wheels may be linked to the tensioning system in some other manner. As with the suspension component(s) 108, the spring-type device may be anything from a spring and damper, air shock, a simple compression spring and structure, a leaf spring, torsion spring, tension spring, or any other flexible plastic, composite, or metal structure to allow some movement and load application onto the track. The travel of the wheel or set of wheels attached to the spring device would need to affect the perimeter of the track’s path.This would apply a load to the track 116 to keep it tightly wrapped around the wheels and other components in the drivetrain. The dynamic tensioning system may also apply a tensioning load directly to the track itself using a device other than a wheel such as a sliding surface or hyfax component. The added benefits of using a dynamic tensioner are that the track 116 may become less susceptible to damage from impacts, as any impacts may be partially or wholly applied to the tensioning system rather than the track itself. The track may also be more flexible to wrap around deformations in the terrain or adaptable to more types of terrain.

[0066] FIG. 3 illustrates a drivetrain 300 in accordance with one embodiment. The drivetrain 300 may be similar to the drivetrain 100 of FIG. 1. The drivetrain 300 may include a static section 302 and a biased section 304 that is pivotally connected to the static section 302. The static section 302 is illustrated with an enclosure 306, such as to protect internal components from exposure to the environment. The drivetrain 300 may similarly include a track such as the track 116 of FIG. 1.

[0067] The drivetrain 300 may include at least a first bar 308 and a second bar 310 connecting the static section 302 and the biased section 304. The first bar 308 may connect to an axle shared with at least one wheel 312 on the biased section 304 and with an axle location 314 on the static section 302, with said axle potentially linked to a motor directly or through a power transmission device. The second bar 310 may connect with an axle location 318 on the biased section 304 and with an axle shared by at least one wheel 320 on the static section 302. These two bars may form a four-bar linkage system using the plates or other parts of the static section 302 and biased section 304 to complete the quadrilateral arrangement. This may allow for more complex motion and angular changes than existing implementations of track systems. For example, the four-bar linkage may allow for simultaneous changes in height and angle of the track surface contacting the snow. Additionally, the first bar 308 and second bar 310 may be placed towards the leading surface of a track, closest to the object being propelled, to provide an effective geometry and reduce the need for large and bulky housings or frames that are suspended over the biased section.

[0068] Although only two bars 308 and 310 are shown in FIG. 3, there may be an additional bar(s) that connect the static section 302 and the biased section 304. Additional bars may provide additional support for the components of the drivetrain 300. These additional bars may be mounted along the same axles as the bars 308 and 310 to provide increased stability, or mounted in other locations. In the case of using the same axles, the two pivot points of eachbar would share the two axles respectively with identical bars or bars of the same axle-to-axle distance.

[0069] The bars 308 and 310 can be made of nearly any material, although a more rigid material such as a metal or composite prevents the track from bending out of alignment if a lateral load is applied such as during a turn. Metals may include aluminum, stainless steel, brass, and titanium, with carbon fiber reinforced plastic or fiberglass being examples of some ideal composites.

[0070] Additional supports may be implemented between the bars 308 and 310 so that the bars 308 and 310 remain more rigid in the lateral direction. This may prevent excessive movement or vibration in or from side directions of the drivetrain 300, such as if the drivetrain 300 was subjected to a force from the side directions. Likewise, additional supports may be placed in the static and biased sections of the frame to provide more lateral support for the linkage system and overall drivetrain 300.

[0071] As seen in FIG. 3, the first bar 308 may be shorter than the second bar 310 in length. This length difference may naturally cause the biased section 304 to be biased downward with respect to the static section 302.

[0072] In some components, the first bar 308, the second bar 310, or both, may include a plurality of apertures such that the bars can connect to the biased section 304 at different locations on the plates or overall structure of the drivetrain 300. This changes the effective length of the bars and may provide customization and varying user experiences. Alternatively, the bars 308 and 310 may be mounted in a single position, and a device such as a screw, pin, bolt, telescoping part, or some other device may be used to adjust the lengths of the bars themselves. This may be simpler than adjusting the mounting locations of the bars. Accordingly, the length of the bars themselves may be adjustable to allow users to change the distance between the biased and static sections and, consequently, the overall geometry of the frame to improve functionality in different climates and conditions.

[0073] The drivetrain 300 may also include a propulsion device such as a motor to drive a track along one or more wheels 312, 320, 322, and the drive wheel 316. The motor (not shown) may be a DC, AC, or other motor powered by electricity (e.g., from an on-board battery) or may comprise a heat engine. In some embodiments, the propulsion device may be configured with in-wheel motors or with hub motors where the motor may be located in place of the drive wheel 316 or placed in another location. In these embodiments, the propulsion device benefitsfrom power characteristics of a direct drive motor system but with reduced weight and maintenance costs. Gears, chains and sprockets, and belts and pulleys may be an alternative method of transferring power from the motor to a track. When using belts or chains, a chain tensioner or belt tensioner may be included to achieve higher efficiency and low slip as compared to other systems. A chain and sprocket system also allows for power transmission over larger distances, such as from the motor to the drive axle and drive wheel 316 if the motor is employed in a configuration that distances it from the track.

[0074] These embodiments may not require pulleys, belts, or belt-tensioning systems. The motor may be controlled by an Electronic Speed Controller (ESC) or motor controller that translates commands from a processor into actions to be performed by the motor. An ESC may also be used to allow the motor to idle freely or to brake which may involve a regenerative braking aspect.

[0075] Additionally, the drivetrain 300 may include a suspension component 324 such as the suspension component 108 of FIG. 1. A suspension component 324 may not only provide a dampening effect but also bias the biased section downward with respect to the static section 302.

[0076] The drivetrain 300 may also include a track 326, which may be similar to the track 116 of FIG. 1. The configuration of the drivetrain 300, particularly with the static section 302 and the biased section 304, allows the track 326 to remain in contact with and apply a force to the ground as the user travels over various types of terrain. For example, FIG. 4 illustrates the drivetrain 300 of FIG. 3 oriented as if it were traveling over a soft surface and with a different type of track 326. In slightly warmer environments, the ground surface on which the user is traveling may be covered in soft snow or slush. As seen in FIG. 4, the biasing force provided on the biased section 304 causes the biased section 304 to be forced downward and toward the ground. FIG. 4 illustrates an angle 400 between the bottom of the static section 302 and the bottom of the biased section 304, wherein the angle 400 is less than 180°.

[0077] FIG. 5, on the other hand, illustrates the drivetrain 300 oriented as if it were traveling or otherwise placed on a hard surface. For example, in colder environments, the ground surface on which the user is traveling may include ice or densely-packed snow.

[0078] As seen in FIG. 5, the force exerted by the ground on the biased section 304 prevents the biased section 304 from extending downward to the extent in FIG. 4. Accordingly, the angle 500 between the bottom surface of the static section 302 and the bottom of the biasedsection 304 is larger than the angle 400 of FIG. 4. This angle is approximately 180°, indicating that the bottom of the static section 302 and the bottom of the biased section 304 are approximately in line with each other. In this orientation, the track 326 would form an approximately triangular shape with the long portion of the track 326 that contacts the ground being the bottom side of the triangle.

[0079] Additionally, when the drivetrain 300 is in the position of FIG. 4, the section of track 326 that is between wheel 312 and drive wheel 316 may provide a compression force on the ground surface right after the ski device passes over this ground surface. This enables the section of the track 326 from wheel 322 to 312 to then grasp the now-compressed snow as the biased section 304 passes over this portion of the ground surface. Over ice or densely-packed snow, on the other hand, the section of the track 326 from drive wheel 316 to wheel 312 forms basically a flat plane with the section of the track 326 from wheel 312 to wheel 322.

[0080] The angle between the first bar 308 and the second bar 310 also changes throughout this movement of the biased section 304. For example, as seen in FIG. 5, in which the static section 302 and the biased section 304 are approximately in line with each other, the first bar 308 and second bar 310 are approximately in parallel with each other. In other words, the first bar 308 and the second bar 310 may be at least approximately parallel with each other when the biased section 304 is raised, such as over a hard surface. The angle between the first bar 308 and the second bar 310 grows as the biased section 304 drops below the ski device.

[0081] The embodiments herein provide for the efficient and comfortable travel over loose or soft surfaces, such as soft snow or slush-like conditions, and also over hard or more compact surfaces. In other words, the drivetrain 300 can react to changes in the surface of travel. As a surface becomes looser and softer, the biased section 304 is pressed further downwards to remain in contact with the ground such that the track 326 can propel the user.

[0082] On the other hand, increases in ground density, such as if the user passes over ice or densely-packed snow, will force the biased section 304 upwards. This brings the angle between the bottom surface of the biased section 304 and the bottom surface of the static section 302 closer in line with each other. This movement also provides a larger, approximately flat surface area of the track 326 that is in contact with the ground surface. This maximizes the amount of grip between the track 326 and the ground, and reduces slippage between the track 326 and the ground.

[0083] FIG. 6 depicts a method 600 of manufacturing a drivetrain in accordance with one embodiment. The drivetrain may be similar to the drivetrains 100 or 300, for example.

[0084] Step 602 involves providing a static section configured to be operably connected to a ski device in a removable manner. The static section may include a series of plates, a housing for a motor or other type of propulsion device, an ESC, transmitters / receivers, any additional electronics, mounting points for axles and / or other parts to function as pivot points for one or more bars, one or more connection mechanisms for connecting the static section to a ski device, and a transmission system. The static section may also include one or more wheels for supporting a track. The static section may also include a device for engaging a track such as a wheel that interfaces with the track to apply rotational forces to said track or simply a location for the mounting of such a device.

[0085] The first bar and the second bar may be similar to the first bar 308 and second bar 310 of FIG. 3, respectively. The first bar and the second bar may be different in length. For example, and as in FIGS. 3-5, the first bar is shorter than the second bar.

[0086] Step 604 involves connecting a biased section with the static section such that the biased section is pivotally connected to the static section, wherein the static section and the biased section are pivotally connected via at least a first bar and a second bar. The biased section may be similar to the biased section 106 of FIG. 1 or the biased section of 304 of FIG. 3, for example. One option for this connection or construction is to mount the bars onto axles that are affixed to the biased section during its construction. Alternatively, the biased section may be created first, and the bars are pivotally attached afterwards.

[0087] The biased section may include a plurality of wheels and one or more hyfaxes, slider shoes, or other sliding rail material for supporting a track. The biased section may also include locations to receive or otherwise connect with the first bar and the second bar as well as the suspension, hyfaxes, and the tensioning system. The biased section may also include the tensioning system as well as hyfaxes or rails. The connection with the bars may characterize how a biasing force is applied to push the biased section downward in use to remain in contact with the ground. A connection to a suspension component may characterize how much and in what direction the load from the spring is applied into the biased section and, consequently, the track. The biased section may also include a multitude of spacers, hardware and support bars.

[0088] Step 606 involves configuring the static section and the biased section with a track. This may include partially fixing the biased section and static section together while installingthe track. An example of this technique may involve mounting the bars and biased section to one side or plate of the static section, installing the track, and then mounting the bars and biased section to the other side or plate. Track replacements may also be performed using a similar method of partially opening the static section and removing and replacing the track before reinstalling the removed parts. Alternatively, the track may be installed over the biased section, bars, and / or wheels, and then the biased section and any other components with the track may be affixed to the static section. In some embodiments, the method 600 may further include the step of extending a suspension component between the static section and the biased section.

[0089] The method 600 may also include an additional step of extending the bars between the biased and static section. Alternatively, method 600 may include the step of mounting axles that were fitted to the bars during their manufacturing and assembly to the static section or biased section to secure said bars in place while allowing for pivoting or rotational motion.

[0090] In some embodiments, the biased section may be built using permanent or semipermanent methods with biasing arms or bars integrated into the manufacturing process. In these embodiments, due to the permanence of the manufacturing method and potential inability to adjust the bars along the axles, it may be required to simultaneously assemble the other axles that are used for the biasing arm assembly such as those that are eventually affixed to the static section. This may effectively cause a simultaneous assembly of multiple axles, wheels, bars, supports, plates, hyfaxes spacers, and a tensioning system and biased section. In cases where the suspension is held within the structure of the bars, the suspension may also be added during this manufacturing step. The product of this manufacturing technique may be a subassembly with some or all components that will be internal to the track, allowing the track to be wrapped around the subassembly at the time of completion. From that point, the subassembly may be inserted as an entire unit with the track into the static section and fixed in place.

[0091] The methods, systems, and devices discussed above are examples. Various configurations may omit, substitute, or add various procedures or components as appropriate. For instance, in alternative configurations, the methods may be performed in an order different from that described, and that various steps may be added, omitted, or combined. Also, features described with respect to certain configurations may be combined in various other configurations. Different aspects and elements of the configurations may be combined in a similar manner. Also, technology evolves and, thus, many of the elements are examples and do not limit the scope of the disclosure or claims.

[0092] Embodiments of the present disclosure, for example, are described above with reference to block diagrams and / or operational illustrations of methods, systems, and computer program products according to embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, two blocks shown in succession may in fact be executed substantially concurrent or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality / acts involved. Additionally, or alternatively, not all of the blocks shown in any diagram need to be included and / or executed. For example, if a given flowchart has five blocks containing functions / acts, it may be the case that only three of the five blocks are performed and / or executed. In this example, any of the three of the five blocks may be performed and / or executed.

[0093] Specific details are given in the description to provide a thorough understanding of example configurations (including implementations). However, configurations may be practiced without these specific details. For example, well-known circuits, processes, algorithms, structures, and techniques have been shown without unnecessary detail to avoid obscuring the configurations. This description provides example configurations only, and does not limit the scope, applicability, or configurations of the claims. Rather, the preceding description of the configurations will provide those skilled in the art with an enabling description for implementing described techniques. Various changes may be made in the function and arrangement of elements without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure.

[0094] Having described several example configurations, various modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents may be used without departing from the spirit of the disclosure. For example, the above elements may be components of a larger system, wherein other rules may take precedence over or otherwise modify the application of various implementations or techniques of the present disclosure. Also, a number of steps may be undertaken before, during, or after the above elements are considered.

[0095] Having been provided with the description and illustration of the present application, one skilled in the art may envision variations, modifications, and alternate embodiments falling within the general inventive concept discussed in this application that do not depart from the scope of the following claims.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A drivetrain comprising: a static section mounted rigidly to an object to be propelled; a biased section pivotally connected to the static section by at least a first bar and at least a second bar; and a track extending through the static section and the biased section, wherein the track is configured to contact a surface to propel the object; and the first bar and the second bar each connect the biased section with the static section to create a linkage arrangement that biases the biased section toward the surface so the track remains in contact with the surface across various types of terrain to propel the object.

2. The drivetrain of claim 1, wherein the first bar has a first length, and the second bar has a second length that is different than the first length.

3. The drivetrain of claim 1 wherein at least one of the static section or biased section are connectable to the first bar at a plurality of locations on the first bar, or the length of the first bar is directly adjustable, to adjust a length between the static section and the biased section.

4. The drivetrain of claim 1, wherein an angle between a sliding plane of the object and the static section and at least one of the first bar or the second bar is variable so that the biased section remains in contact with the surface across various types of terrain so that the track can engage the various types of terrain.

5. The drivetrain of claim 1 further comprising a frame that constrains the track such that the track remains longitudinally aligned with the object being propelled.

6. The drivetrain of claim 1 further comprising a suspension component that extends between the static section and biased section.

7. The drivetrain of claim 1 further comprising at least one connection mechanism to enable a drivetrain to be removably connectable from the object being propelled.

8. The drivetrain of claim 7 further comprising a power source removably connectable to the object being propelled and configured to supply power to the drivetrain.

9. The drivetrain of claim 1 wherein: a first type of surface causes a bottom surface of the biased section and a bottom surface of the static section to be approximately coplanar with each other and create a single approximately coplanar surface of the track that is in contact with the ground surface being travelled upon, and a second type of surface causes at least one section of the track to be non-coplanar and non-parallel with a bottom surface of the object and assist in packing and gripping material generally below the object.

10. A method of manufacturing a drivetrain, the method comprising: providing a static section configured to be operably connected to an object to be propelled in a removable manner; connecting a biased section with the static section such that the biased section is pivotally connected to the static section, wherein the static section and the biased section are pivotally connected via at least a first bar and a second bar; and configuring the static section and the biased section with a track, wherein the first bar and the second bar bias the biased section to remain in contact with a surface across various types of terrain so the track remains in contact with the surface across various types of terrain to propel the object.

11. The method of claim 10 wherein the first bar has a first length, and the second bar has a second length that is different than the first length.

12. The method of claim 10 wherein at least one of the static section or biased section are connectable to the first bar at a plurality of locations on the first bar, or the length of the first bar is directly adjustable, to adjust a length between the static section and the biased section.

13. The method of claim 10 wherein an angle between a sliding plane of the object and the static section and at least one of the first bar or the second bar is variable so that the biased section remains in contact with the surface across various types of terrain so that the track can engage the various types of terrain.

14. The method of claim 10 further comprising constraining the track in a frame such that the track remains longitudinally aligned with the object to be propelled.

15. The method of claim 10 further comprising extending a suspension component between the static section and the biased section.

16. The method of claim 10 further comprising configuring the object to be propelled with a connection mechanism to enable a drivetrain to be removably connectable from the object being propelled.

17. The method of claim 10 further comprising connecting a removable power source to the object to be propelled.

18. The method of claim 10 wherein: a first type of surface causes a bottom surface of the biased section and a bottom surface of the static section to be approximately coplanar with each other and create a single approximately coplanar surface of the track that is in contact with the ground surface being travelled upon, and a second type of surface causes at least one section of the track to be non-coplanar and non-parallel with a bottom surface of the object and assist in packing and gripping material generally below the object.

Images