Snowmobile Technology
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The idea for snowmobiles came from military technology. The rubber tracks used on their off road vehicles proved to work well in snowy conditions. Canadian Joseph-Armand Bombardier used the same design ideas to create his first multi-passenger large snowmobiles, and then his Ski-Do in 1959.
There are four major components involved in driving and steering one: an engine, clutch, tracks, and skis. They also have a windshield and a seat similar to those found on motorcycles. Snowmobile shocks make the ride more comfortable.
The engine used is similar to those found in personal watercraft and powers the track drive. This large gear mechanism rotates the tracks, making the machine move. The faster the engine goes, the faster the tracks turn and the faster you go.
The clutch system is a pulley-based Continuously Variable Transmission using two pulleys connected by a drive belt. The Primary clutch, on top of the engine, has a pressure spring holding the two halves apart when the engine is idling at a low rpm. When the engine accelerates, the clutch weights use centrifugal force to close the clutch and allow the belt to move freely, transmitting power.
The Secondary clutch is connected to the track drive and turns the wheels for powering the tracks. This clutch also has a spring mechanism that operates cams that are sensitive to torque. When the engine's rpm rises, the primary clutch transmits power and the cams squeeze to tighten the belt.
This continues throughout acceleration. Once top speed is attained, the Primary clutch closes and the belt moves into a higher gear. With less power needed to maintain speed, the secondary clutch now opens. This shifting between gears happens smoothly without any jerkiness.
Tracks on these machines are similar to those on tanks, except made out of lighter materials such as rubber. Using tracks allow the weight to be spread out over a larger surface area, allowing travel on soft, slippery, unstable terrain and preventing sinking in soft snow. During really icy conditions sharp studs can be added to the tracks for even greater traction.
Instead of using the tracks to steer, a snowmobile uses a handlebar/ski mechanism. Steering is similar to turning handlebars to steer a bicycle or motorcycle. The handlebars are connected to the skis mounted at the bottom of the snowmobile. Snowmobile shocks keep the ride comfortable and help you stay in better control. These snowmobile shocks have improved greatly over the years.
Article Source: Articlelogy.com
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