Snowmobile Motor Module Cross Member Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing construction of snowmobile frames and front suspension assemblies is heavy and complex due to the use of numerous fasteners and welds, increasing manufacturing costs and weight, which complicates the design and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A snowmobile frame design featuring a motor module with a cross member and tunnel assembly that reduces the need for additional fasteners and welds by using integrated cast parts and strategically placed fasteners, such as huck bolts, to connect the suspension and motor modules, while maintaining structural integrity through C-shaped cross member segments and overlapping protrusions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If numerous fasteners and welds are used to connect suspension module, motor module and tunnel, then structural integrity is improved, but weight and device complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The motor module and suspension module are merged into a single integrated frame structure where the motor module serves as both a structural component and a mounting platform. The cross member is formed as an integral part of the motor module, eliminating the need for separate connecting components and reducing the number of fasteners and welds required.
Solution Approach 2:
The motor module is designed to perform multiple functions: it houses the snowmobile motor, provides structural support as a frame component, serves as a mounting platform for suspension components, and incorporates the cross member functionality. This multi-functionality reduces the overall number of components needed in the frame assembly.
2Strength
If numerous fasteners and welds are used to connect suspension module, motor module and tunnel, then structural integrity is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The motor module and suspension module are merged into a single integrated frame structure where the motor module serves as both a structural component and a mounting platform. The cross member is formed as an integral part of the motor module, eliminating the need for separate connecting components and reducing the number of fasteners and welds required.
3Strength
If cross members are added to withstand forces applied by suspension assemblies, then strength is improved, but weight and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cross member is merged with the motor module as an integral structural feature. Rather than being a separate component that adds weight, the cross member is formed as part of the motor module's housing, utilizing the same material and manufacturing process. This eliminates the weight penalty of additional separate components while maintaining the necessary force resistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The motor module serves multiple functions including housing the motor, providing structural support, and incorporating the cross member functionality. By making the motor module's housing sufficiently robust to serve as the cross member, the design eliminates the need for additional dedicated cross member components, thereby reducing overall weight.
4Strength
If additional components are provided to withstand forces applied by suspension assemblies, then strength is improved, but manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The motor module and suspension module are merged into a single integrated frame structure where the motor module serves as both a structural component and a mounting platform. The cross member is formed as an integral part of the motor module, eliminating the need for separate connecting components and reducing the number of fasteners and welds required.
Data Source
AI summary
A snowmobile has a frame having a motor module. The motor module has a front portion defining a cross member and further defining an aperture below the cross member. The frame further has a tunnel, a suspension module, a motor, a handlebar, front left and right skis both operatively connected to the handlebar and front left and right suspension assemblies operatively connecting the front left and right skis respectively to the suspension module and to the motor module. Each one of the front left and right suspension assemblies have a respective support arm having a proximal end positioned longitudinally forward of the motor module and a proximal fastener pivotally connecting the proximal end to the front portion of the motor module about a pivot axis. A line extending from a left pivot axis to a right pivot axis is contained in the cross member.