Tracked Snow Transport System with Convex Slides for Traction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motorized snow transport systems for skiers and snow sports participants lack effective solutions for traversing flat or hilly terrain with sufficient safety and control, particularly in navigating uneven terrain and maintaining user momentum.
Innovation Solution
A tracked motorized snow transport system with a frame, drive wheel, idler wheel, and continuous track, featuring convex upper and lower track slides for friction and a push arm assembly with user controls, designed to provide stable propulsion and control over varied terrain.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a motorized drive unit is used to pull a skier, then propulsion capability is improved, but safety and control on uneven terrain deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The snowmobile is divided into separate functional modules: a drive unit with motor assembly, a track assembly with convex track slides, and a push arm assembly. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for its specific function while maintaining overall system safety and control.
Solution Approach 2:
The push arm assembly is positioned to extend forwardly from the frame before operation, allowing the user to push against the ground for initial propulsion and maintaining forward momentum. This preliminary positioning of the push arm provides safety and control before the motorized drive fully engages.
2Force
If a tracked design is used, then traction on snow is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The track system is segmented into discrete components: a continuous track wrapped around drive and idler wheels, with separate convex upper and lower track slides. This modular segmentation simplifies manufacturing and assembly while maintaining effective snow traction.
Solution Approach 2:
The convex track slides are positioned at specific locations (upper and lower portions of side plates) to provide localized friction and stability. This localized application of friction elements simplifies the overall track design compared to continuous friction surfaces, reducing complexity while maintaining traction.
3Stability of the object's composition
If convex track slides are added for friction control, then stability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The convex track slides are positioned at specific locations (upper and lower portions of side plates) to provide localized friction and stability. This localized application of friction elements simplifies the overall track design compared to continuous friction surfaces, reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The convex track slides serve multiple functions: providing friction for stability, guiding the track movement, and supporting the weight of the snowmobile. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, simplifying manufacturing.
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 system effectively assists skiers and snowboarders in traversing flat or hilly terrain by providing necessary traction and momentum, ensuring safe operation and control through adjustable components and ergonomic design.
Implementation Method 1
A pair of convex lower track slides are mounted on lower portions of the pair of opposed side plates, and a pair of convex upper track slides are mounted on upper portions of the pair of opposed side plates
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure provides a snow transport system with a frame comprising a base plate, a pair of opposed side plates mounted on opposed sides of the base plate, and a plurality of cross members extending between the side plates. A pair of convex lower track slides are mounted on lower portions of the pair of opposed side plates, and a pair of convex upper track slides are mounted on upper portions of the pair of opposed side plates. A drive wheel is mounted at an upper front portion of the frame, and an idler wheel mounted at a lower rear portion of the frame. A continuous track is wrapped around the drive wheel, the convex lower track slides, the idler wheel and the convex upper track slides. A motor assembly is mounted within the frame, and connected to the drive wheel through a transmission assembly. A push arm assembly is mounted to one side of the frame, the push arm assembly extending forwardly from the frame and having a push bar portion and user controls at a forward end thereof. - 13 -