Electrically powered track system for snowboards and snow skis

Abstract

An electrically powered track system is provided for use with snowboards and snow skis. The system includes a track housing supporting a continuous flexible track and defining an internal cavity. At least one electric motor is positioned within the track loop and configured to directly drive the track. A rechargeable battery system and associated control electronics are disposed within the track housing to form a self-contained propulsion module. The track system may be removably mounted beneath a snowboard or ski without permanent structural modification, or permanently integrated into a board or ski body. The powered track system is configured to provide propulsion across flat or uphill terrain while permitting freewheeling operation for traditional snowboarding or skiing when propulsion is not required.

Description

[0001] ELECTRICALLY POWERED TRACK SYSTEM FOR SNOWBOARDS AND SNOW SKIS

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION :

[0003] The present invention relates to electrically powered transportation systems , specifically an electrically powered track system for snowboards and snow skis , providing enhanced mobility across ground surface terrain .

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION :

[0005] Snowboards and snow skis are widely used recreational and sporting devices that are fundamentally designed for downhill travel under the influence of gravity . Their shapes , materials , and structural characteristics are optimi zed to provide controlled sliding, edge engagement , and maneuverability when descending a slope . While these design principles are ef fective for downhill riding, they inherently limit the ability of snowboards and skis to move ef ficiently across flat terrain, gradual inclines , or uphill sections without external assistance . As a result , riders frequently encounter situations

[0006] 2 in which forward motion cannot be maintained using the equipment alone , requiring the rider to walk, skate , sidestep, or remove and carry the snowboard or skis .

[0007] These limitations are particularly evident in environments such as ski resorts with flat run-outs , terrain parks with extended traverses , access routes to li fts , backcountry approaches , and mixed-terrain routes where downhill sections are interspersed with flat or uphill segments . In such settings , the lack of sel f-propulsion disrupts the riding experience , increases physical exertion, and reduces ef ficiency . Snowboarders are especially af fected, as snowboards are not well suited to skating or walking motions when compared to skis , often necessitating complete removal of the board .

[0008] Recogni zing these challenges , numerous attempts have been made to provide powered propulsion systems for snowboards and skis . Over several decades , inventors and manufacturers have explored a wide range of mechanical , electrical , and hybrid solutions intended to augment or replace gravity-driven motion . Despite this extensive activity, powered snow sports equipment has not achieved widespread adoption, largely due to persistent technical and practical shortcomings present in existing solutions . A signi ficant portion of prior art focuses on propulsion systems mounted at or near the rear end of the snowboard or ski . These designs typically place motors , tracks , belts , or wheels behind the rider' s feet or beyond the tail of the equipment . While such configurations can generate forward thrust , they often introduce substantial weight at the rear, shi fting the center of mass away from the rider' s natural balance point . This rearward weight bias adversely af fects stability, particularly when transitioning between powered and unpowered operation, and can make the equipment di f ficult to control on uneven or variable snow surfaces . In addition, tail-mounted systems commonly interfere with the flex pattern of the board or ski , degrading downhill performance and reducing the responsiveness that riders expect from their equipment .

[0009] Other prior art solutions rely on permanent structural modi fication of the snowboard or ski to accommodate powered components . These approaches frequently involve cutting large openings into the board or ski body to house tracks , belts , or drive mechanisms . While permanent integration can improve mechanical alignment and reduce external protrusions , it comes at the cost of versatility and adaptability . Permanently modified equipment cannot be easily reverted to conventional use, limiting the rider to a single specialized board or ski.

[0010] This increases cost and reduces appeal, particularly for riders who already own high-quality equipment or who prefer different boards or skis for different conditions. Permanent modification also raises concerns regarding structural integrity, durability, and long-term performance, as the removal of material from the board or ski body can compromise strength and flex characteristics .

[0011] Some systems in the prior art attempt to avoid onboard propulsion entirely by using external or trailing devices that push or pull the rider. These may include tethered propulsion units, rigid linkages, or trailing motorized platforms. While such systems can reduce the weight carried on the snowboard or ski itself, they introduce new problems related to safety, maneuverability, and rider comfort. Trailing devices are susceptible to snagging on obstacles, colliding with terrain features, or exerting unpredictable forces on the rider. Tethered systems can restrict natural movement and posture, making them unsuitable for dynamic riding environments. As a result, these approaches have seen limited acceptance.

[0012] 5 More recent developments in the field have explored electronically controlled propulsion systems . These systems often rely on sensors mounted in boots , bindings , or other contact points to detect when the rider li fts a foot , shi fts weight , or initiates a step . While such designs aim to provide automatic or semi-automatic propulsion assistance, they introduce substantial complexity . Sensors must operate reliably in cold, wet , and impact-prone environments , and are vulnerable to calibration dri ft , false triggering, and mechanical failure .

[0013] Fuel-powered and hybrid propulsion systems also appear in the prior art , often employing internal combustion engines to drive tracks or wheels . Although these systems can deliver high power output , they are generally heavy, noisy, and mechanically complex . Fuel storage raises safety and environmental concerns , and engine-based systems are increasingly at odds with modern trends toward electri fication and sustainability in recreational equipment . The weight and vibration associated with combustion engines further detract from the riding experience .

[0014] Across these various approaches , several persistent problems remain unresolved . Weight and balance continue to be central challenges , as additional mass must be carefully distributed to avoid compromising handling and control . Many prior systems concentrate weight in unfavorable locations , leading to instability or degraded performance . Integration versus modularity presents another unresolved tension, with prior art tending to favor either permanently integrated systems that lack flexibility or removable systems that suf fer from inadequate stability or cumbersome attachment mechanisms .

[0015] Adaptability and customi zation represent further unmet needs . Snow conditions vary widely, from groomed hardpack to deep powder and icy surfaces . Rider preferences and skill levels also di f fer substantially . Prior art systems often provide fixed track configurations , fixed mounting positions , or limited adj ustment options , reducing their ef fectiveness across diverse conditions . The inability to customi ze track dimensions , configuration, or placement limits the utility of many existing designs .

[0016] Despite these shortcomings , the prior art also reveals signi ficant opportunities . Advances in electric motor technology, battery energy density, and power electronics have dramatically improved the feasibility of lightweight , ef ficient propulsion systems . Modern electric motors can deliver high torque in compact form factors , while rechargeable battery systems can provide suf ficient energy for practical use without excessive weight . These technological improvements open the door to propulsion systems that were not feasible when many earlier designs were conceived .

[0017] Modular design principles present another opportunity, enabling propulsion systems to be added to or removed from existing equipment as needed . Such modularity allows riders to retain the use of their preferred boards or skis while selectively adding powered assistance for speci fic conditions or routes . This approach also supports aftermarket adoption and reduces barriers to entry .

[0018] Track-based propulsion remains attractive due to its ability to generate traction in snow without relying on wheels or external pushing mechanisms . However, opportunities exist to rethink how track systems are structured, mounted, and driven in order to improve balance , reduce interference with downhill riding, and enhance adaptability . The ability to position motors either inside or outside track structures , to use flexible or rigid track elements , and to distribute propulsion across one or more tracks of fers additional design flexibility .

[0019] User-controlled propulsion systems that rely on direct input rather than automated sensor logic represent a further opportunity to improve reliability and user satisfaction . By allowing the rider to decide when propulsion is applied, such systems can integrate more naturally with established snowboarding and skiing practices . Finally, there exists an opportunity to address both modular and permanently integrated use cases within a single conceptual framework . Riders may wish to use removable propulsion systems in some contexts while preferring permanently integrated solutions in others .

[0020] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION :

[0021] While prior art demonstrates sustained interest in providing powered propulsion systems for snowboards and snow skis , existing solutions have failed to reconcile propulsion capability with rider balance, equipment versatility, and practical usability . Many prior approaches rely on externally mounted motors , deck-mounted batteries , or distributed propulsion components positioned outside the track structure , resulting in increased vertical profile , disrupted weight distribution, exposed components , and interference with natural board or ski flex . Other approaches require permanent structural modi fication of the board or ski or rely on complex sensor-based activation systems that reduce reliability in cold, wet , and impact-prone environments . Accordingly, there remains a need for electrically powered snow sports propulsion systems that provide ef fective assistance across flat and uphill terrain while preserving downhill performance and accommodating both modular and integrated configurations .

[0022] The present invention addresses these needs by providing an electrically powered track system for snowboards and snow skis in which propulsion, energy storage , and control components are integrated within the track assembly itsel f . In accordance with the invention, a track housing supports a continuous flexible track defining an endless track loop and further defines an internal cavity . At least one electric motor is positioned within the track loop and is configured to directly engage and drive the track without the use of an intermediate belt , chain, gearbox, or transmission . A rechargeable battery system, a motor controller, and a battery management system are disposed within the internal cavity of the track housing and are electrically coupled to the electric motor . A control interface is provided to regulate power delivery to the electric motor . In this configuration, the electric motor, battery system, motor controller, and battery management system are enclosed within the track housing to form a compact , sel f-contained propulsion module . In some embodiments , the electric motor comprises a hub motor positioned coaxially with a drive axis of the track loop, with a rotor that carries or defines a drive engagement feature configured to directly engage an inner surface of the track . In other embodiments , alternative electric motor types may be employed while maintaining direct drive engagement with the track . One or more electric motors may be provided within a single track housing, and where multiple motors are provided, the motors may be independently controllable to tailor propulsion characteristics to terrain, snow conditions , or rider preference .

[0023] The rechargeable battery system may be fully contained within the internal cavity of the track housing, mounted on the snowboard or ski body, or carried by a rider and electrically coupled to the powered track assembly . The battery management system may be configured to monitor and control charging, discharging, temperature , voltage , and current associated with the battery system . Electrical connections between the electric motor, motor controller, and battery system may be contained entirely within the track housing, thereby reducing exposure to environmental conditions and simpli fying installation and maintenance . In one aspect , the invention provides a powered track assembly configured as a removable unitary propulsion module detachably mountable to a snowboard or snow ski without permanent structural modi fication . Mounting may be achieved using one or more straps , brackets , mounting arms , skid plates , or combinations thereof . In such removable embodiments , the mounting structure may include compliant , resilient , or shockabsorbing elements permitting relative movement between the powered track assembly and the snowboard or ski body, allowing flex and torsional movement of the board or ski independently of the track housing and preserving natural riding dynamics .

[0024] In another aspect , the invention provides a snowboard or snow ski in which the powered track system is permanently integrated into the board or ski body . The board or ski body may include a recess or cutout region configured to receive the track housing . The track housing may be bonded, co-molded, or co-cured with the board or ski body and may form a structural or load-bearing component thereof . An upper deck structure of the board or ski may span the track housing so as to preserve a continuous riding surface while maintaining desired flex characteristics and edge engagement . The powered track system may be positioned beneath a rider standing region to promote balanced weight distribution during use . The track assembly may be configured to operate in a powered mode to provide propulsion across flat , uphill , or variable terrain and to permit freewheeling operation of the track when propulsion is not engaged, thereby allowing traditional downhill snowboarding or skiing without motor interference .

[0025] The track assembly itsel f may be implemented in a variety of configurations . The track loop may include traction features such as paddles , cleats , or lugs suitable for di fferent snow conditions . One or more idler wheels or support elements may be positioned within the track loop to guide and support track movement . The track housing may define a low-profile configuration and may include airflow channels or thermal paths to dissipate heat generated by the electric motor or electronics during operation .

[0026] Single-track, dual-track, or multi-track configurations may be employed . Multiple powered track assemblies may be mounted beneath a single snowboard or ski in a distributed arrangement . Control of the powered track system may be provided through one or more user-operated interfaces , including handheld wireless control devices or mobile computing devices , enabling user- selective engagement , disengagement , and regulation of propulsion . The disclosed embodiments are illustrative and not limiting, and variations and modi fications in motor type , number and placement of motors , battery configuration, control electronics , track construction, mounting arrangements , and board or ski integration may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims .

[0027] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS :

[0028] To easily identi fy the discussion of any particular element or act , the most signi ficant digit or digits in a reference number refer to the figure number in which that element is first introduced . The drawings enclosed are :

[0029] Figure la depicts a side view of a permanent track system built into a snowboard;

[0030] Figure lb depicts the top view of a permanent track system built into a snowboard;

[0031] 14 Figure 1c depicts the bottom view of a permanent track system built into a snowboard;

[0032] Figure Id depicts the side view of a permanent track system built into a snow ski ;

[0033] Figure le depicts the top view of a permanent track system built into a snow ski ;

[0034] Figure I f depicts the bottom view of a permanent track system built into a snow ski ;

[0035] Figure 1g depicts a side view of a permanent track system chassis for snowboards and snow skis ;

[0036] Figure 2a depicts the side view of a removable two-track system on a snowboard;

[0037] Figure 2b depicts the side view of a removable two-track system on a snow ski ;

[0038] Figure 2c depicts the top view of a removable two-track system on a snowboard;

[0039] 15 Figure 2d depicts the bottom view of a removable two-track system on a snowboard;

[0040] Figure 2e depicts the bottom view of a removable two-track system on a snow ski ;

[0041] Figure 2 f depicts the bottom view of a customi zable removable two-track system on a snowboard;

[0042] Figure 2g depicts the bottom view of a customi zable removable two-track system on a snow ski ;

[0043] Figure 2h depicts the side view of a removable two-track system centered under a snowboard or snow ski ;

[0044] Figure 2 i depicts the side view of a removable single-track system under a snowboard or snow ski ;

[0045] Figure 2j depicts the side view of a removable seven-track system on a snowboard or snow ski ;

[0046] Figure 3a depicts the side view of a removable track housing with a motor and drive assembly; Figure 3b depicts the side view of a removable track system with motor drive components ;

[0047] Figure 3c depicts a cross-sectional view of a motor drive assembly and track system;

[0048] Figure 3d depicts the side view of an individual removable track section;

[0049] Figure 3e depicts the side view of a track chassis for a snowboard or snow ski ; and

[0050] Figure 3 f depicts a cross-sectional view of a track system mounted to a snowboard or snow ski .

[0051] DETAILED DESCRIPTION :

[0052] The electrically powered track system described herein is intended to provide a comprehensive and adaptable propulsion solution for snowboards and snow skis . The invention is not limited to any single structural configuration, component arrangement , or mode of operation, and the embodiments illustrated in the drawings are exemplary only . Unless expressly stated otherwise, individual features, structures, and components described in connection with one embodiment may be combined with, substituted for, or omitted from other embodiments, as would be understood by a person skilled in the art. References to a snowboard are intended to include snow skis, and references to a board or ski body are intended to encompass either configuration unless the context requires otherwise .

[0053] In accordance with the invention, the powered track system generally includes a board or ski body (1) configured to support a rider through boots and bindings (3) , and one or more powered track assemblies mounted beneath the board or ski body. Each powered track assembly includes a track housing (2, 8) that supports and guides a continuous flexible track (5) defining an endless track loop. The track is supported by idler wheels (6, 7, 2, 3) , drive wheels, pulleys, or sliders (4, 7, 8) arranged to maintain proper track alignment and tension during operation. Propulsion of the track is provided by one or more electric motors (2, 9, 1) , which are electrically coupled to a rechargeable power source and one or more control components.

[0054] The track housing serves multiple functions. Structurally, it provides a rigid or semi-rigid framework that supports the track, idler wheels , drive components , and any internali zed propulsion components . Functionally, it establishes the spatial relationship between the track and the board or ski body and defines the manner in which propulsion forces are transmitted to the snow surface . In certain embodiments , the track housing additionally functions as a protective enclosure and as a chassis that carries propulsion, energy storage , and control electronics .

[0055] A central and distinguishing aspect of the present invention is the integration of propulsion, energy storage , and control components within the track assembly itsel f . In these embodiments , the track housing defines one or more internal cavities configured to receive and support one or more electric motors , a rechargeable battery system, a motor controller, and a battery management system .

[0056] In embodiments employing internally mounted motors , at least one electric motor is positioned within the track loop . As illustrated for example in FIG . 3d, the motor may comprise an electric hub motor ( 2 ) disposed inside the track ( 4 ) and supported by idler wheels ( 3 ) positioned within the track housing ( 1 ) . The motor rotor may carry, define , or support a drive engagement feature that directly engages the track, thereby imparting propulsion torque directly to the track loop . In such embodiments , propulsion is achieved without reliance on an intermediate belt drive , chain drive , gearbox, j ackshaft , or other external transmission component .

[0057] Positioning the motor within the track loop provides several functional advantages that are important to the invention . The motor mass is concentrated near the track and beneath the rider standing region, improving longitudinal and vertical balance . The elimination of external transmissions reduces overall system height and minimi zes interference with board flex, carving dynamics , and terrain clearance . Additionally, locating the motor within the track housing allows the housing itsel f to act as a protective enclosure for the motor, shielding it from snow, moisture , impact , and debris encountered during use .

[0058] It is expressly contemplated that more than one internally mounted motor may be provided within a single track housing, or that internally mounted motors may be distributed across multiple track housings . Where multiple motors are provided, the motors may be independently controllable to tailor propulsion characteristics to terrain conditions , rider preference , or load distribution . In further embodiments , the rechargeable battery system, motor controller, and battery management system are disposed within the internal cavity of the track housing . These components are electrically coupled to the motor through wiring harnesses and connectors that may be routed entirely within the track housing, externally along the housing, or through protected channels formed in the housing or associated mounting structures .

[0059] Housing the battery system and control electronics within the track housing allows the track assembly to function as a sel f- contained propulsion module . In such configurations , the powered track assembly may be manufactured, transported, installed, removed, serviced, or replaced as a unit , without requiring disassembly of the board or ski body . This modularity is particularly advantageous in removable embodiments , aftermarket installations , and service or upgrade scenarios .

[0060] The track housing may further function as a structural chassis that supports mechanical loads associated with propulsion, rider weight trans fer, and interaction with the snow surface . By integrating powertrain components within the housing, the invention avoids the need to mount heavy batteries or electronics on the board deck or at the tail , thereby reducing destabili zing moments and preserving natural riding dynamics . Not all embodiments require full internali zation of all powertrain components . In some embodiments , the electric motor is positioned within the track loop while one or more of the battery system, motor controller, or battery management system are mounted externally to the track housing, such as on the board or ski body or carried by the rider . In other embodiments , the battery system and electronics are internal to the track housing while a control interface or charging interface is external . These partial internali zation arrangements are expressly contemplated and allow the invention to be adapted to di f ferent runtime , weight distribution, manufacturing, or serviceability requirements .

[0061] In some embodiments , the internal battery system and electronics are arranged as removable modules or cartridges that can be inserted into and removed from the internal cavity of the track housing . Access to these components may be provided through removable covers , panels , hatches , or service openings formed in the track housing . Such arrangements facilitate rapid battery replacement , charging, upgrading, or servicing without requiring removal of the entire track assembly from the board or ski .

[0062] Where propulsion and power components are disposed within the track housing, thermal management may be achieved through a variety of mechanisms . The track housing may include thermally conductive members , heat spreaders , or heat sinks that draw heat away from the motor or electronics . Airflow paths or venting channels may be defined within the housing to promote convective cooling, including airflow induced by movement of the track during operation . Environmental sealing features , such as gaskets , shields , or labyrinth structures , may be employed to limit ingress of snow, water, ice , or debris into regions containing electrical components .

[0063] In removable embodiments , illustrated for example in FIGS . 2a- 2j , the powered track system is configured as a detachable assembly mountable to the underside of a snowboard or snow ski without permanent structural modi fication .

[0064] The following description refers to speci fic exemplary embodiments illustrated in the accompanying figures , which depict particular implementations of the powered track system consistent with the general architectures described above .

[0065] Referring to FIG . 2a, a removable two-track system ( 8 ) is shown mounted to the underside of a snowboard ( 1 ) . The rider is secured to the snowboard by boots and bindings ( 3 ) . Each track assembly includes a track housing (8) enclosing a continuous flexible track (5) supported by idler wheels (6) . Electric motors (2) provide propulsion to the tracks. Adjustable straps

[0066] (4) secure the track assemblies to the snowboard. A front skid plate (9) engages the front portion of the snowboard, a center skid plate (10) connects front and rear track sections, and a rear skid plate (11) secures the track housing to the rear of the snowboard. Electrical wiring harnesses (12) connect the motors to control components. The tracks (5) may be powered through a gear drive or belt drive (7) coupling the motors (2) to the track system.

[0067] FIG. 2b illustrates a similar removable configuration adapted for a snow ski (1) . The tracks (5) , idler wheels (6) , motors (2) , straps (4) , and skid plates (9, 10, 11) perform analogous functions adapted to the geometry of a ski. In this embodiment, propulsion of the tracks (5) may likewise be achieved through a gear drive or belt drive (7) coupling the motors (2) to the track system.

[0068] FIG. 2c illustrates a top view of a removable track system in which track sections (2) are mounted beneath a snowboard (1) . Electric motors (7) are provided with locations (8) for additional motors. Motor mounting brackets (10) and additional mounting brackets (11) secure the motors and track assemblies. A front skid plate (3) connects to the front of the board (12) , and a rear skid plate (4) connects to the rear of the board (13) . A middle skid plate (5) and connector hinges (9) connect adjacent track sections (2) . Each track section is centered beneath the snowboard binding locations (6) . In this configuration, each track section (2) is positioned beneath a corresponding snowboard binding location (6) to promote balanced propulsion and rider control.

[0069] FIGS. 2d and 2e depict bottom views of removable two-track systems mounted to a snowboard and a snow ski, respectively. The track housing (2) is secured by a front skid plate (3) , middle skid plate (4) , adjustable rear straps (5) , and connector hinges (6) .

[0070] FIGS. 2f and 2g illustrate similar bottom views in which customizable skid plates (5) are employed, allowing the interface between the track housing (2) and the board or ski (1) to be adapted for different riding conditions.

[0071] FIG. 2h illustrates a side view of a removable two-track system mounted beneath a snowboard or ski (1) . The track assemblies are centered beneath the binding locations (2) and aligned along the

[0072] 25 board or ski centerline (3) . The track housing (4) encloses the track (5) and idler and drive wheels (6) . The system is secured using straps (10) , a front skid plate (7) , a center skid plate (8) , and a rear skid plate (9) . Electrical wiring (11, 12) connects the motors and control components.

[0073] FIG. 2i illustrates a removable single-track system (3) mounted beneath a snowboard or ski (1) , centered between and below binding locations (2) . The track housing (3) is secured by a front skid plate (5) and a rear skid plate or straps (4) .

[0074] FIG. 2j illustrates a removable multi-track system in which multiple modular track housings (4) enclosing tracks (5) are mounted beneath a snowboard or ski (1) . A front skid plate (2) and rear skid plate or straps (3) secure the assemblies.

[0075] In other embodiments, illustrated for example in FIGS, la-lg, the powered track system is permanently integrated into a snowboard or snow ski.

[0076] Referring to FIG. la, a side view of a permanently integrated track system in a snowboard (1) is shown. Electric motors (2) drive a track (5) positioned within a cutout section (4) of the snowboard. The rider is secured by boots and bindings (3)

[0077] 26 mounted above the track housing. The track is supported by idler wheels located within the track (6) and above the track (7) .

[0078] FIG. lb shows a top view of the integrated snowboard (1) with motors (4) and bindings (3) mounted above the cutout section (2) located over the track.

[0079] FIG. 1c shows a bottom view of the integrated snowboard (1) illustrating the location of the track (2) relative to the board underside .

[0080] FIGS. Id-lf illustrate corresponding permanent integration embodiments for snow skis (1) , including motors (2) , bindings (3) , cutout sections (4) , tracks (5) , and idler wheels (6) .

[0081] FIG. 1g illustrates a track chassis (1) suitable for permanent integration. The chassis is fixed to the track (5) via supports (6, 7) , and the track is supported by a drive wheel (4) and idler wheels (2, 3) .

[0082] FIGS. 3a-3f illustrate various embodiments of track system components and drive arrangements.

[0083] FIG. 3a illustrates a removable track housing (5) mounted beneath a snowboard or ski (1) . An electric motor (9) and motor housing (3) are mounted above the board and connected to a track drive wheel (7) through a gear drive (10) or belt drive (11) .

[0084] The track (8) is supported by idler wheels (6) . A mounting strap (4) secures the housing to the board or ski.

[0085] FIG. 3b illustrates a removable track system (7) in which an electric motor (1) is secured by motor mounts (2) . An electric motor (1) is secured via motor mounts and / or a motor housing (2) . A motor drive shaft (3) turns a motor drive pulley and associated drive belt (5) connected to a track drive pulley (8) .

[0086] FIG. 3c illustrates a cross-sectional view in which an electric motor (1) mounted to a motor bracket (2) turns a motor axle (3) supported by a motor housing (5) . The axle drives a pulley (6) connected via belts (7) to a track drive pulley (8) , which drives the track (9) having traction features (10) .

[0087] FIG. 3d illustrates an individual removable track section including a track housing (1) , idler wheels (3) , and an electric hub motor (2) positioned within the track (4) .

[0088] FIG. 3e illustrates a track chassis (3) supporting a track (1) using drive and idler wheels (2) and track sliders (4) .

[0089] 28 FIG. 3f illustrates a cross-sectional view of a track system mounted to a snowboard or ski (1) . The track housing (2) supports track pulley bearings (4) and a pulley axle (5) that drives the track (3) . Adjustable mounting brackets (6) secure the housing to the board or ski.

[0090] Control of the powered track system may be provided through one or more user-operated interfaces, including handheld control devices or mobile computing devices. In some embodiments, propulsion may be responsive to rider input, including stance or weight distribution. The track system may be configured to operate in a powered mode to provide propulsion across flat or uphill terrain and to permit freewheeling operation when propulsion is not engaged, thereby allowing traditional downhill snowboarding or skiing.

[0091] The foregoing embodiments are illustrative and not limiting. Variations and modifications in motor type, number and placement of motors, battery configuration, control electronics, track construction, mounting arrangements, symmetry, reversibility, materials, and board or ski integration may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the

[0092] 29 appended claims . The terms "comprises" and "comprising" are intended to be non-exclusive .

[0093] 5

Claims

CLAIMS :

1. A modular electrically powered drive kit for snowboards and snow skis comprising: a. one or more detachable track sections including a front skid plate, one or more mid-track sections, and a rear adjustable skid plate or mounting element; b. at least one electric motor configured to drive the track sections; c. a rechargeable battery system; and d. a control system for speed and power adjustment of the at least one electric motor.

2. The modular electrically powered drive kit of claim 1, wherein the track sections comprise flexible track elements .3 . The modular electrically powered drive kit of claim 1 , wherein the track sections comprise rigid track elements .4 . The modular electrically powered drive kit of claim 1 , wherein a plurality of electric motors are provided and are independently controllable .5 . The modular electrically powered drive kit of claim 1 , wherein the control system includes regenerative braking functionality to extend battery li fe .6 . The modular electrically powered drive kit of claim 1 , wherein the track dimensions or track configuration are customi zable to accommodate varying terrain and rider preferences .7 . The modular electrically powered drive kit of claim 1 , wherein the control system comprises a handheld control device .

8. The modular electrically powered drive kit of claim 1, wherein the control system comprises a mobile application interface .

9. A snowboard or snow ski equipped with a modular electrically powered drive system comprising: a. a snowboard or ski body; and b. the modular electrically powered drive kit of claim 1 detachably mounted to the snowboard or ski body without permanent structural modification.

10. The snowboard or snow ski of claim 9, wherein the drive kit is mounted beneath a rider standing region of the snowboard or ski.

11. The snowboard or snow ski of claim 9, wherein the drive kit is secured to the snowboard or ski by straps, clamps, brackets, or skid plates.

12. The snowboard or snow ski of claim 9, wherein the rechargeable battery system is mounted on the snowboard or ski.

13. The snowboard or snow ski of claim 9, wherein the rechargeable battery system is carried by an operator and electrically coupled to the drive kit.

14. The snowboard or snow ski of claim 9, wherein the control system is operated by a control device carried by an operator .

15. The snowboard or snow ski of claim 9, wherein the at least one electric motor is positioned inside a track loop or outside a track loop.16 . The snowboard or snow ski of claim 9 , wherein the track sections comprise flexible track elements or rigid track elements .17 . A snowboard or snow ski comprising : a . a snowboard or ski body having a cutout section; b . a chassis and track assembly embedded in the cutout section of the snowboard or ski body; c . at least one electric motor positioned to drive the track assembly, the at least one electric motor being positioned inside or outside a track loop or track structure ; and d . a rechargeable battery system and control system for operational management of the track system .18 . The snowboard or snow ski of claim 17 , wherein the track system supports freewheeling operation to enabletraditional snowboarding or skiing functionality when propulsion is not required .19 . The snowboard or snow ski of claim 17 , wherein the rechargeable battery system is integrated within the snowboard or ski body .20 . The snowboard or snow ski of claim 17 , wherein the rechargeable battery system is removably mounted to the snowboard or ski body .21 . The snowboard or snow ski of claim 17 , wherein the control system is operated by a remote control device or mobile computing device .22 . The snowboard or snow ski of claim 17 , wherein the track assembly comprises flexible track elements or rigid track elements .

3. The snowboard or snow ski of claim 17, wherein a plurality of electric motors are provided and are independently controllable.

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