Retractable Wheel Assembly for Snowmobile Ski
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing snowmobile systems face difficulties when transitioning from snowy to non-snowy surfaces due to complex and cumbersome wheel installation processes, which lead to premature wear and structural damage to the skis, especially when wheels are not properly aligned with reinforced areas.
Innovation Solution
A retractable wheel system for snowmobile skis that uses a pre-tensioned spring mechanism to automatically switch between retracted and extended configurations, allowing easy installation and secure fixation without compromising the structural integrity of the skis, utilizing a kingpin connection and a pivoting member with a slot and connector system to manage the wheel's position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual wheel installation is used, then the ski is protected from abrasive surfaces, but the manipulation becomes complex and difficult requiring user intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel system automatically deploys and retracts without user intervention. A spring mechanism stores energy when the wheel is deployed, and automatically retracts the wheel when transitioning back to snowy surfaces, eliminating the need for manual installation and removal operations
Solution Approach 2:
The wheel system transitions from a static manual installation approach to a dynamic automatic deployment system. The wheel can be quickly extended by the operator and then automatically retracts via spring mechanism, creating a responsive system that adapts to terrain changes without complex manual manipulation
2Ease of manufacture
If the wheel system is installed on a non-reinforced zone of the ski, then the installation is simpler, but the ski bends under weight causing diminished performance and premature wear
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel system is specifically designed to be installed only in the reinforced zone of the ski where structural strength is sufficient. This localized installation approach ensures that the wheel mounting point coincides with the strongest part of the ski structure, preventing bending and maintaining structural integrity while still allowing for relatively simple installation
3Reliability
If fixation holes are practiced in the ski, then the wheel can be secured, but the ski is weakened and may break
Solution Approach 1:
Fixation holes are placed specifically in the reinforced zone of the ski where the structure is strongest. This localized approach to hole placement minimizes the weakening effect on the overall ski structure while still providing sufficient fixation strength to secure the wheel system during deployment and operation
4Adaptability or versatility
If the wheel remains extended, then the snowmobile can circulate on non-snowy surfaces, but the wheel may jam with snow or ice in snowy conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel system dynamically changes state based on terrain conditions. It extends when non-snowy surfaces are detected and automatically retracts when transitioning back to snowy surfaces, creating a responsive system that adapts to environmental changes without requiring complex manual manipulation to prevent jamming
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides automatic feedback-based control where the operator's initial deployment action triggers the spring mechanism, which then automatically manages wheel retraction based on the terrain transition, eliminating the need for continuous manual manipulation to respond to changing conditions
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The retractable wheel system simplifies the transition between snowy and non-snowy surfaces, reduces wear on the skis, and maintains the structural integrity of the skis by ensuring proper weight distribution and contact surface, while automatically retracting when sufficient snow is present.
Implementation Method 1
a spring having a first extremity and a second extremity, the aid spring being pre-tensioned at a predetermined amount
Implementation Method 2
the aid spring being pre-tensioned at a predetermined amount
Implementation Method 3
a pivoting member connected to the ski and to the spring, the pivoting member being actuated by the spring, a shaft having a first and a second extremity, the shaft comprising a slot at the second extremity, the pivoting member being pivotally mounted along the shaft
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a retractable wheel system for snowmobile skis. The retractable wheel system of the present invention may be installed on a snowmobile ski without affecting its structural integrity by installing the system on the reinforced portion of the snowmobile ski. When a user circulates in a path with little or no snow, the retractable wheel system is positioned in the extended configuration by the user and the system will automatically return to the retracted configuration when the user returns in a snowy zone. This is realized by using a pre-tensioned spring that will reposition the wheel in the retracted configuration. The spring transmits a rotational movement to the member on which the wheel is fixed.