Electric linear actuator for use on a retractable wheel assembly for use on snowmobiles
View Patent ↗An electric linear actuator and retractable wheel assembly configured for use on a snowmobile is provided. The assembly includes bracket or base member configured to be attached to a ski of a snowmobile. The base member supports a linear actuator which is activated to rotate a transfer plate. The transfer plate simultaneously slides and pivots around a transfer shaft which guides and limits the movement of the transfer plate. A wheel is attached to the transfer shaft such that the wheel is configured to retract and protract relative to the ski of the snowmobile allowing the wheel to be used instead of the ski when the snowmobile is traveling on rough surfaces.
1. An electric linear actuator and retractable wheel assembly configured for use on snowmobiles, comprising:
a transfer plate having a channel;
a transfer shaft attached to a base member and positioned within the channel of the transfer plate;
a wheel attached to the transfer plate via a wheel axis shaft;
a pivot arm rotatably connected to the transfer plate via a rotational axis attachment pin positioned at an end of the transfer plate opposite the transfer shaft,
a linear actuator having a lower portion attached to a connector member and an upper portion attached to the pivot arm, wherein the connector member and the pivot arm are attached to the base member;
wherein the pivot arm and the rotational axis attachment pin are positioned at a highest point above a ski of the snowmobile to minimize exposure to snow and ice buildup;
whereby activation of the linear actuator causes the pivot arm and the rotational axis attachment pin to move the transfer plate and the channel about the transfer shaft, thereby moving the wheel between a retracted position and a protracted position relative to the ski.
2. The assembly of claim 1 , further comprising a transfer shaft attached to the base member and positioned within the channel of the transfer plate, wherein the transfer shaft is configured to guide and limit the rotation of the transfer plate.
3. The assembly of claim 1 , wherein the channel is curved.
4. The assembly of claim 1 , wherein the transfer plate is rotatably attached to the pivot arm via a rotational axis attachment pin.
5. The assembly of claim 1 , wherein the linear actuator is configured to be activated via a switch.
6. The assembly of claim 1 , wherein the attachment element is an attachment shaft.