WO2024089350A1

WO2024089350A1 - Motorized personal mobility device for snowy ground

Info

Publication number: WO2024089350A1
Application number: PCT/FR2023/051654
Authority: WO
Inventors: Georges De Montgolfier
Original assignee: Remonte Pente Individuel
Priority date: 2022-10-24
Filing date: 2023-10-23
Publication date: 2024-05-02
Also published as: FR3141137A1

Abstract

The present invention relates to a personal mobility device for travelling over snowy ground. The device comprises at least one movement module (11) and a holding module (12) on which a user can stand, the movement module (11) comprising a chassis (14), at least one tread (16) for rolling along the ground and at least one electromechanical actuator for moving said at least one tread, wherein: - the chassis comprises two end plates (20) arranged facing another in a lateral direction (AY) and connected together; - the electromechanical actuator comprises at least one belt carried by the chassis between the two end plates, the electromechanical actuator being activatable to drive said at least one belt in movement relative to the chassis; - said at least one tread extends laterally between the two end plates and is fixed to said at least one belt.

Description

DESCRIPTION

TITLE: MOTORIZED PERSONAL TRAVEL VEHICLE FOR SNOW-COVERED GROUNDS

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to the field of motorized personal transportation vehicles, abbreviated EDPM, and more particularly concerns a locomotion vehicle for traveling on snow-covered ground.

TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

In alpine skiing, also called downhill skiing or piste skiing, skiers are commonly transported to summits and ridges using ski lifts such as ski lifts, gondolas or even funiculars.

These ski lifts are guided transport infrastructures serving different ski slopes linked to a ski area. They make it possible to escape the topographical constraints of the terrain by allowing a direct connection, facing the slope and without detours.

However, when using ski lifts, skiers are dependent on predetermined routes. However, certain locations of interest are not served by such ski lifts, particularly when it comes to practicing “off-piste skiing”.

Also, it should be noted that these ski lifts may be subject to frequent disruptions such as delays linked to too many people, breakdowns leading to immobilization, or even closures at the end of the winter period.

The aim of the invention is to propose a means of transport as a substitute, or at least complementary, to ski lifts, which makes it possible to move freely on snow-covered ground, and more particularly to go up snow-covered slopes without being dependent on routing. predefined. STATEMENT OF THE INVENTION

To this end, the subject of the invention is a personal travel vehicle for traveling on snow-covered ground along a direction comprising at least one longitudinal component, this vehicle comprising at least one movement module and a holding module on which a user of the machine can stand, the movement module comprising a chassis, at least one tread on the ground and at least one electromechanical actuator for moving said at least one tread relative to the chassis, in which:

- the chassis comprises two side flanges arranged opposite each other in a lateral direction and rigidly connected together;

- the electromechanical actuator comprises at least one belt carried by the chassis between the two flanges and a portion of which is longitudinally oriented, the electromechanical actuator being activatable to drive said at least one belt in movement relative to the chassis;

- said at least one tread extends laterally between the two flanges and is fixed to said at least one belt to be driven in movement relative to the chassis, the tread being arranged so as to be in contact with the ground along the longitudinal orientation portion of the belt.

The invention also relates to a machine thus defined, in which the electromechanical actuator comprises an electric motor carried by the chassis, a belt guiding system and a system for transmitting a rotation provided by the electric motor to said at least one belt, including:

-- the guiding system comprises a plurality of shafts carried by the chassis and which each extend laterally along a respective shaft axis between the two flanges, including a driving shaft which is mounted to move in rotation around its respective axis;

- the transmission system comprises a transmission shaft which is driven by the electric motor and a kinematic chain which ensures rotational coupling of the transmission shaft with the driving shaft of the plurality of shafts; - the at least one belt surrounds the shafts, being coupled with the driving shaft so that a rotation of the driving shaft by the electric motor (24) causes said at least one belt to move around the shafts.

The invention also relates to a machine thus defined, in which the driving shaft is rotatable and each of the other shafts of the plurality of shafts:

- is mounted movable in rotation around its respective axis, and cooperates in rotation with the at least one belt; Or

- is mounted fixed in rotation, carrying at least one bearing, for example ball or roller bearings, which cooperates in rotation with the at least one belt.

The invention also relates to a machine thus defined comprising a movement module comprising a tread on the ground and an electromechanical actuator for moving the tread relative to the chassis, in which:

- the shafts extend laterally being carried by the two flanges;

- the tread extends laterally along the entire area between the two flanges.

The invention also relates to a machine thus defined comprising two movement modules each comprising a tread on the ground and an electromechanical actuator for moving the tread relative to the chassis, in which:

- the shafts extend laterally being carried by the two flanges;

- the tread extends laterally along the entire area between the two flanges of the chassis.

The invention also relates to a machine thus defined comprising a movement module which comprises:

- a left tread and a left electromechanical actuator for moving the left tread;

- a right tread and a right electromechanical actuator for moving the right tread; and in which:

- the chassis has an intermediate wall extending between the two flanges;

- the left tread extends between the left flange and the wall intermediate, and the right tread extends between the intermediate wall and the right flange;

- the shafts of the belt guide system of the left electromechanical actuator are carried by the left flange and the intermediate wall;

- the rotating shafts of the belt guide system of the right electromechanical actuator are carried by the intermediate wall and the right flange.

The invention also relates to a machine thus defined, in which:

- the flanges laterally delimit an internal enclosure; And

- the kinematic chain of the electromechanical actuator transmission system extends outside the internal enclosure, this kinematic chain comprising a pinion, a toothed wheel and a chain which couples the pinion and the toothed wheel, including:

- the pinion is carried by the transmission shaft, integral in rotation with this transmission shaft;

-the toothed wheel is carried by the driving shaft, integral in rotation with this driving shaft.

The invention also relates to a machine thus defined, in which:

- the kinematic chain of the left actuator transmission system extends in a lateral plane along the left flange;

- the kinematic chain of the transmission system of the right actuator extends in a lateral plane along the right flange.

The invention also relates to a machine thus defined, in which the movement module(s) comprises a belt tension adjustment system(s).

The invention also relates to a machine thus defined, in which the holding module comprises two footrests or two ski rests which are fixed to the chassis and which each extend in the extension of a flange.

The invention also relates to a machine thus defined, in which the holding module comprises a platform which extends along a vertical direction above the movement module, this platform being carried by the flanges.

The invention also relates to a machine thus defined, in which the holding module comprises a platform which extends laterally between the two movement modules, this platform being carried by a twinning structure which connects the flanges arranged opposite each other. screws laterally of the two movement modules.

The invention also relates to a machine thus defined, in which the tread(s) comprise relief elements on the exterior surface, intended to rest on the ground.

The invention also relates to a machine thus defined, comprising at least one snow deflector in the internal enclosure which extends in the lateral extension of a flange to overlap a functional clearance measured between said flange and the tread. extending opposite laterally.

The invention also relates to a machine thus defined, in which the tread(s) is covered on the exterior surface, intended to rest on the ground, with a coating which ensures adhesion with the ground in one direction. of belt movement and sliding with the ground in another direction of belt movement.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear during reading of the detailed description which follows, for the understanding of which we will refer to the appended drawings in which:

- [Fig.1] is a perspective view of a personal travel device for traveling on snow-covered ground according to a first embodiment, comprising a movement module according to a first variant of embodiment with a tread.

- [Fig.2] is a top view of the movement module according to a first embodiment, removed from the tread;

- [Fig.3] is a partial side view of the movement module of Figure 2;

- [Fig.4] is a partial side view of the movement module of the figure 2, from a point of view different from that of Figure 3;

- [Fig.5] is a partial and detailed view of Figure 2;

- [Fig.6] is a schematic sectional view of the movement module according to the first embodiment according to the section plane A-A of Figure 2;

- [Fig.7a] is a view of the personal transportation device according to the first embodiment, comprising a holding module equipped with ski hooks;

- [Fig.7b] is another view of the moving machine conforming to Figure 7b;

- [Fig.8] is a partial perspective view of the personal travel device according to a first embodiment, comprising a cover to serve as a platform for holding the user;

- [Fig.9] is a partial side view of the movement module according to the first embodiment which further integrates a belt tension adjustment system;

- [Fig.10] is a perspective view of a personal travel device for traveling on snow-covered ground according to a second embodiment, comprising two travel modules according to the first alternative embodiment.

- [Fig.11] is a top view of the moving machine according to the second embodiment, which illustrates turning behavior;

- [Fig.12] is a perspective view of a travel machine according to a third embodiment, comprising a movement module according to a second alternative embodiment with two treads;

- [Fig.13] is a top view of the movement module according to the second alternative embodiment, removing the treads;

- [Fig.14a] is a partial perspective view of an example of a personal travel vehicle according to the invention equipped with deflectors to counter the introduction of snow into it;

- [Fig.14b] is a schematic and partial view in axial section of the machine according to the invention which illustrates in detail the assembly of a deflector and the dynamics of blocking the snow by it. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

With reference to the figure, there is shown a motorized personal travel vehicle 10 according to a first embodiment of the invention, which is particularly suitable for traveling on snow-covered ground.

For the description of the invention and the understanding of the claims, we will adopt on a non-limiting basis a machine reference AX, AY, AZ, which is linked to the machine as its name suggests.

The machine frame of reference AX, AY, AZ defines orthogonal axial AX, lateral AY and vertical AZ orientation axes, the machine vertical orientation axis AZ being generally coincident with a vertical orientation axis defined as normal on the ground S on which the machine is intended to rest.

The machine 10 comprises a movement module 11 and a user holding module 12.

The movement module 11 comprises a chassis 14, a tread on the ground 16 and an electromechanical actuator 18 for moving the tread relative to the chassis 14. With reference to Figures 2 to 6 the movement module will be described 11 equipping the machine 10 according to a first alternative embodiment.

The chassis 14 provides a support role for the other constituent elements of the movement module 11. It comprises two side flanges 20 which are arranged opposite each other in the lateral direction. They are each delimited vertically by a border 21 which extends longitudinally, facing the ground S.

The flanges 20 are held parallel and spaced apart from each other by a frame, and delimit, together with the tread 16 which extends laterally between them, an internal module enclosure, denoted I.

In the example of the figures, the flanges 20 have a similar morphology with a generally triangular outline in side view. They are oriented in a laterally superimposable manner by being connected laterally by rods 22 constituting the frame. We distinguish in particular, following a direction of movement in “forward” of the machine 10, denoted MA in FIG. 1, a left flange 20g and a right flange 20d. The electromechanical actuator 18 comprises an electric motor 24 which is carried by the chassis 14, three belts 26, a belt guide system 28 and a transmission system 30.

The guiding system 28 comprises a plurality of shafts 32, not limited to the number four, which each extend laterally along a respective shaft axis between the two flanges 20.

More specifically, orifices are formed in the flanges 20 by being aligned two by two laterally and through which the rotating shafts 32 extend. In this example, each shaft 32 is guided in rotation by a pair of bearings 34 each fixed at the level of a separate flange 20d, 20g, in the extension of the orifice through which the shaft protrudes outside E of the internal enclosure I.

One of the rotating shafts 32, called the driving shaft 32a, is rotated in response to a rotational movement supplied at the output of the electric motor 24. This electric motor 24 is held between the two flanges 20, within the internal enclosure I , in a position which does not hinder rotation of the rotary shafts 32. In the example of the figures, the electric motor 24 has a cylindrical shape with an axis of revolution of lateral orientation. This choice of architecture results directly from a space constraint available between the rotating shafts 32, but the invention is however not limited to this particularity.

The electric motor 24 rotates the driving shaft 32a via the transmission system 30. This transmission system 30 comprises a transmission shaft 35 driven directly by the electric motor 24, and a kinematic chain 36 which ensures coupling in rotation of the transmission shaft 35 with the driving shaft 32a. The kinematic chain 36 advantageously extends outside the internal enclosure I so as to overcome integration difficulties linked to the bypassing of the rotating shafts 32 and the frame for holding the flanges 20 in position.

In the example of the figures, this kinematic chain 36 is arranged on a lateral side of the movement module 11, along the right flange 20d. It comprises a pinion 38, a toothed wheel 40 and a chain 41 which extend in a lateral plane.

The pinion 38 is coupled in rotation with the transmission shaft 35. More specifically, it is carried integrally in rotation by the transmission shaft 35 which passes through the right flange 20d in the extension of the electric motor 24.

The toothed wheel 40 is rotatably coupled with the driving shaft 32a. It is carried integrally in rotation with the driving shaft 32a at the level of the end of this driving shaft 32a which protrudes out of the internal enclosure I.

The chain 41 surrounds a section of the circumference of the pinion 38 and the toothed wheel 40 to link them in rotation. In practice, the chain is made up of links delimiting gaps at which the teeth of the pinion and the toothed wheel engage.

The use of such a chain 41 as a connecting member between the pinion 38 and the toothed wheel 40 is however not limiting. It can be replaced by a belt without departing from the scope of the invention. Also, generally speaking, the transmission system 30 is not limited to the location, the nature or even the arrangement of the constituent elements of the kinematic chain 36 since it ensures rotational coupling of the transmission shaft 35 with the driving shaft 32a.

In the example of the figures, the transmission system 30 is arranged on the right side of the movement module 11. This particularity results from the fact that the electric motor 24 is arranged so that its output is oriented towards the right flange 20d. An opposite arrangement, in which both the transmission shaft 35 protrudes out of the internal enclosure I by crossing the left flange 20g and the kinematic chain extends laterally along this left flange 20g, does not exit the frame of the invention.

As visible in detail in Figure 4, a plate 42 is fixed on the right flange 20d. This plate 42 forms an interface between the kinematic chain 36 and the right flange 20d which ensures good control of the alignment of the pinion 38, the toothed wheel 40 and the chain 41. Also, this plate 42 constitutes the seat of a pulley 39 which is arranged between the pinion 38 and the toothed wheel 40 and which cooperates with the chain to keep it in tension.

Additionally, fairings 43 are attached externally to the flanges 20. As visible in Figure 1, each fairing 43 has a shape substantially identical to the shape of its destination flange so as to cover it entirely. These fairings 43 make it possible to isolate the bearings 34 which support the rotating shafts 32, as well as the transmission system 30, from external environmental conditions.

In order not to hinder the operation of the transmission system, the fairing 43 which surmounts it laterally must extend at a distance. To satisfy this condition, the flange which supports the transmission system 30, namely the right flange 20d in the example of FIG. 1, defines a flange C which remotely follows the contour of the toothed wheel 40.

As stated previously, the flanges 20 preferably have identical shapes. This feature makes it possible to manufacture flanges 20 in series, following the same model, regardless of their destination location. In this regard, the left flange also includes a collar C in Figure 1. The invention is, however, not limited to this serial manufacturing condition and makes it possible to form the two flanges 20 whose morphologies differ, as long as they fulfill their role as support elements.

Concerning the three belts 26, they each extend in a distinct lateral plane and each surround the rotating shafts 32 in a taut manner to couple them in rotation.

More specifically, the rotating shafts 32 each carry rings 44 at which the belts are supported. Each ring 44 is fixed on the rotating shaft considered, at a location along this rotating shaft which fits into a lateral plane of the belt. As understood, the rings 44 provide a pulley function Advantageously, the belts 26 are toothed in nature and the rings 44 are grooved to guarantee control of the coupling, by shape correspondence. Note that the use of smooth belts 26 which cooperate with smooth rings 44 can also be considered.

In addition, each ring 44 can delimit, along its circumference, a groove in which the corresponding belt is engaged. This feature is particularly to be favored in the case of smooth rings 44, to ensure lateral retention of the belt 26, preventing it from moving along the rotating shaft 32 carrying the ring in question.

In this example, there are three belts and each rotating shaft 32 carries three rings 44, but the invention is not limited to this particular arrangement. Another number of belts 26, and associated rings 44, can be retained.

Also, an arrangement in which the belts bear directly on the rotating shafts 32 to couple them in rotation, namely an arrangement without a ring 44, can be retained without departing from the scope of the invention.

The tread 16 has a closed contour, and extends laterally between the flanges 20, advantageously along the entire lateral extent measured between the two flanges 20. As illustrated in Figure 6, this tread 16 runs along the belts 26 along their peripheral extent, being attached to these belts 26 by fastening elements 45.

The tread 16 is intended to come into surface support on the ground S, along a contact area A defined along the edge 21 of the flanges 20.

In detail, we can distinguish two rotating shafts 32b, called base shafts, which extend in a plane denoted P in Figure 6, parallel to the edge 21. The two base shafts 32b constitute the trees closest to the ground level S. They condition the position of the tread 16 relative to the edges 21 of the flanges. In this regard, these base shafts 32b are installed so that the strip bearing 16 extends between them, extending vertically from the edge 21, towards the ground S. With this arrangement, it is understood that the area A of the tread extending between the two base shafts 32b can actually be in support on the S floor.

Note that the invention is not limited to two base shafts 32b. It is permitted to provide one or more other additional base shafts between the existing base shafts, as long as they are included in plan P. Such an addition may be relevant to limit the forces passing through each of the base shafts which transmit the static and dynamic loads to the frames 14.

In operation, the user of the machine can rest directly on the holding module 12 which is fixed to the chassis 14. In the example of Figure 1, this holding module 12 is in the form of two footrests 46 extending on either side of the movement module 11. These footrests 46 are each rigidly fixed to a separate flange 20 by crossing the fairings. There is a left footrest 46g which protrudes laterally from the left flange 20g and a right footrest 46d which protrudes laterally from the right flange 20d. With this arrangement, the user stands vertically with his legs apart above the tread 16.

It should be noted that the holding module 12 is not limited to the configuration as described on the basis of Figure 1. The footrests 46 can for example be replaced by ski hooks or ski rests extending on either side of the movement module 1, or by a platform which extends above the movement module 11 .

Figures 7a and 7b illustrate an example of producing ski hooks, denoted 46g', 46d'. These ski hooks 46g', 46d' each protrude laterally from the corresponding left 20g or right 20d flange, in a manner similar to the footrests 46g, 46d of FIG. 1. They have removable attachments, such as straps or tightening plates, to retain a portion of the skis, denoted H, so as to block them in position relative to the machine 10.

In the example of Figure 7b, a front portion of the user's skis are engaged in the ski hooks 46g', 46d', namely a portion of the skis located in front of the user in the direction of travel MA . With this arrangement, the machine 10 according to the invention ensures traction for the user standing on their skis which rest on the snow-covered ground. It should be noted, however, that an arrangement in which the machine 10 ensures the propulsion of the user can be retained, by means of the attachment of the skis at the level of a rear portion of the skis.

Regarding the use of a platform, it is particularly preferred if the lateral extent measured between the flanges 20 is large to the point of generating discomfort for the user. Indeed, it may be desired to increase the lateral extent between the flanges 20 so as to increase the contact area A by using a wider strip, and thus reduce the risk of slipping.

Such a platform can be in the form of a plate held above the movement module 11 by bent arms which each protrude from a flange 20. Alternatively, as illustrated in Figure 8, the platform can be constituted by a cover 47 which is mounted on the flanges 20. The platform can in particular be shaped to allow the holding of skis, a snowboard, or even a sled, for example by means of the formation of corresponding imprints in this platform.

In operation, the user of the machine 10 rests on the holding module 12 and the electric motor 24 rotates the driving shaft 32a via the transmission system 30. The rotation of the driving shaft carries the movement belts 26 which drive the other rotating shafts 32 in an overall movement. Due to its connection with the belts 26, the tread 16 thus moves along its path around the rotating shafts 32.

In the example of Figure 6, forward operation of the movement module 11, oriented towards the left and denoted MA, consists of activate the electric motor 24 to move the rotating shafts 32 counterclockwise. It follows that a point defined arbitrarily at the contact area A at a time tO will be shifted to the right at a later time t1. Conversely, reverse operation involves rotation of the rotary shafts 32 in the opposite direction by the electric motor.

As understood, according to the invention it is desired that the tread 16 adheres to the ground S so as to move the movement module 11 in its environment, relative to the ground.

To increase the grip potential of the tread 16 on the ground S, its exterior surface, intended to rest on the ground, can be provided with relief elements, such as pins, crampons, profiles with U-shaped section, or any other element that a person skilled in the art could consider.

Alternatively, the outer surface of the tread 16 can be covered with a so-called “seal skin” coating. Such a covering, commonly made of nylon or mohair fur, increases the potential for grip on the snow in one direction of travel. It is understood that any covering having properties similar to that of seal skin, namely ensuring adhesion with the ground S in one direction of movement and sliding with the ground S in the other direction of movement, can be retained. without departing from the scope of the invention. It is understood that the sealskin covering or similar is oriented so as to increase grip on the ground in the forward direction of movement of the machine.

The movement module 11 may in particular include a belt tension adjustment system 48. It is intended that the system 48 allows adequate tensioning of the belts 26, particularly when they begin to relax under fatigue stress. Such relaxation can have repercussions on the efficiency of machine 10.

This system 48 makes it possible to authorize a degree of freedom in translation of a shaft 32, preferably one of the base shafts 32b. In the example of Figure 9, it is presented under the association of: - a pair of grooves 49 of longitudinal extent and which are formed facing each other at the level of a flange 20, and through which a base shaft 32 extends; And

- a pair of screw-nut type motion converters 50, each arranged at a respective flange. Each converter 50 comprises an endless screw 50a which extends along the groove 49 formed in the corresponding flange 20, and a nut 50b which is carried by the endless screw 50a. The nut 50b and the endless screw 50a cooperate by threading so that a rotation of the endless screw causes a movement of the nut 50b along this screw 50a, and therefore along the groove 49.

The position of the nut 50b along the groove 49 conditions the position of the end of the base shaft 32b which protrudes from this groove 49. As is understood, a longitudinal approach or separation of the shaft base 32b with which the system 48 cooperates, relative to the other base shaft 32b, is thus permitted. It follows that the tension of the belts 26 can be adjusted by rotating the endless screws 50a on either side of the movement module 11 as needed. In particular, it is a matter of these screw-nut movement converters 50 being irreversible in nature, namely that a longitudinal force exerted on the nut 50b cannot lead to an unexpected rotation of the screw 50a, otherwise a tensioning of the belts 26 could not be maintained.

In the example of Figure 9, each nut 50b is fixed to a respective end of the base shaft 32b. With this arrangement, it is understood that this base shaft 32b is not rotatable. To guarantee the same shaft-belt cooperation properties as those of the example of Figure 3, it is planned in this example to replace the rings 44 described with reference to this Figure 3 with bearings 44' of conventional type, for example ball or roller. As understood, rotational coupling can thus be obtained indirectly through cooperation between the so-called outer ring of the bearings 44' and the belt 26 bearing on this outer ring. It should be noted that the invention is not limited to the arrangement of Figure 8. In practice, an arrangement can be retained for which the base shaft 32b is rotatable, by using a bearing at the interface between this shaft and nut 50b. Also, in the event that the base shaft 32b is blocked in rotation, the use of such bearings 44' is not restrictive, the belts 26 being able to slide just as easily on this base shaft 32b.

In view of the above, it should be noted that in practice, only the driving shaft 32a can be rotary, while the other shafts 32 can be mounted to the chassis 14 in a manner locked in rotation or movable in rotation. In the event of rotation being blocked, these other shafts can carry bearings 44' as described in Figure 9, or be without them so that the belts 26 slide on them when they are driven by the driving shaft 32a.

Finally, the belt tension adjustment system 48 is not limited to the use of the screw-nut type motion converters 50 described. For example they can be replaced by elastic biasing members, such as springs, which continuously press the ends of the base shaft 32b in a direction of extension of the belts 26. It follows that the drop in belt tension is counterbalanced by a movement of the base shaft 32b along the grooves 49.

According to the first embodiment, described on the basis of Figures 1 to 9, the machine 10 is designed to advance in a rectilinear manner, it being understood that all the points of the contact area A of the tread 16 are attributed the same speed vector.

To adopt turning behavior, it may be suggested to a skiing user to use their ski poles to resort to a “pole plant”. This involves planting the stick on one side or the other of the movement module 11 so as to generate a braking force at this side: the stick acts as a pivot around which the machine 10 rotates. As understood, the machine 10 according to the first embodiment of the invention adopts a turning behavior by means of braking. In order to increase the turning potential, it is planned according to a second embodiment, described with reference to Figures 10 and 11, to equip the machine 10 with two movement modules 11.

These movement modules 11 each have an architecture comparable to that of the movement module described in the first embodiment. They extend longitudinally in the same orientation and are aligned in the lateral direction by being connected by a twinning structure 52 which connect the flanges arranged opposite each other laterally.

Advantageously, the movement modules 11 are spaced apart from each other so as to integrate a platform 54 of the holding module, on which the user stands. With this arrangement, the user sits between a movement module on his left 11g and a movement module on his right 11d.

Also, as illustrated in dotted lines in Figure 11, it is preferred according to this embodiment to provide an arrangement of the electric motor 24 and the transmission system 30 of each movement module 11 which is oriented towards the outside. In other words, it is advantageously planned to:

- both orient the electric motor 24 so that its output is oriented to the left and place the transmission system 30 at the level of the left fairing in the case of the left movement module 11g; And

- both orient the electric motor 24 so that its output is oriented to the right and place the transmission system 30 at the level of the right fairing in the case of the right movement module 11d.

With this arrangement, the fixing of the twinning structure 52, which connects the respective right and left flanges of the left and right movement modules 11g, 11d, does not suffer from assembly constraints that might otherwise exist, namely in the presence of the kinematic chain 36 at the fixing location.

With this solution, it becomes possible to exacerbate the turning behavior of the machine by means of a speed differential between the treads of the two movement modules. In the example of the figure 11, when it is desired to adopt a turning behavior G1 oriented towards the left, it is a question of providing a higher rotation of electric motor 24 at the level of the right movement module 11d. It then follows that the tread 16d of the right displacement module 11d moves more quickly than the tread 16g of the left displacement module 11g, creating the turning effect.

According to a third embodiment of the machine, it is also sought to increase the turning potential. The idea behind this third variant lies in obtaining a speed differential, in a manner similar to the second mode, but through a single movement module 11.

With reference to Figures 12 and 13, this third embodiment is distinguished by a variant of the movement module 11 with two rolling strips 16, including a left strip 16g and a right strip 16d.

The movement module 11 according to this variant comprises a chassis 14 which is generally like that of the first variant of Figures 2 to 5, with the difference that it comprises an intermediate wall 58 which extends laterally between the two flanges 20, midway.

This intermediate wall 58 is held in position by the frame, corresponding to an association of rods 22 in this example. It splits the internal enclosure I into two sub-enclosures, each associated with a strip 16. The left strip 16g extends laterally between the left flange 20g and the intermediate wall 58; and additionally the straight strip 16d extends laterally between the intermediate wall 58 and the right flange 20d. Advantageously, the left strip 16g extends laterally along the entire extent measured between the left flange 20g and the intermediate wall 58, while the right strip 16d extends laterally along the entire extent measured between the wall intermediate 58 and the right flange 20d, so as to maximize the respective contact area of these strips.

The movement module 11 comprises two electromechanical actuators 18 each dedicated to the actuation of a strip of specific bearing. Each electromechanical actuator 18 has an architecture similar to the single electromechanical actuator of the first alternative embodiment.

There is a left actuator 18g comprising a belt guiding system 28g and a transmission system 30g, and a right actuator 18d comprising in the same way a belt guiding system 28d and a transmission system 30d. The actuators 18d, 18g and the guide systems 28d, 28g are presented in the same manner respectively as the actuator 18 and the guide system 28 of the first alternative embodiment as described on the basis of Figures 2 to 5.

Advantageously, the respective rotating shafts 32g, 32d of the left and right belt guide systems 28g, 28d are aligned laterally and guided by bearings 34g, 34d mounted on the intermediate wall 58.

The bearings 34g associated with the rotary shafts 32g of the left guide system 28g are fixed on a left delimiting surface of the intermediate wall 58. Following a mirror arrangement, the bearings 34d associated with the rotary shafts 32d of the right guide system 28d are fixed on a straight boundary surface of the intermediate wall 58.

In the example of Figure 13, the rotating shafts 32g are coupled in rotation along their respective axis by two belts 26g, and in the same way the rotating shafts 32d are coupled in rotation by two belts 26d. It should be noted that the invention is not limited to the number of belts.

Each electromechanical actuator 18d, 18g comprises a respective electric motor 24d, 24g which rotates a separate rotating driving shaft, namely a driving shaft located in the left sub-enclosure Ig for the left electric motor 24g, and a driving shaft located in the under right enclosure Id for the right electric motor 24d.

The left and right electric motors 24g and 24d have opposite orientations so that their output is directed towards a specific flange. With this arrangement, the left 20g flange is the seat of the left transmission system 30g, and the right flange 20d is the seat of the right transmission system 30d.

The left tread 16g is attached to the left belts 26g while the right tread 16d is attached to the right belts 26d.

With this arrangement, it is understood that the right and left electromechanical actuators can act independently of each other, which makes it possible to generate a movement speed differential between the right and left bands 16d, 16g. A turning behavior of the machine 10 can be obtained on this basis.

Also, the machine according to this embodiment comprises a holding module 12. In the example of Figure 12, this holding module is in the form of a platform 59 mounted on bent arms 60 which are each fixed on one of the 20g, 20d flasks. However, an arrangement of holding module 12 conforming to the first embodiment, comprising footrests 46g, 46d or ski hooks 46g', 46d' as described on the basis of Figures 1, 7a and 7b, or even a cover 47 as described in Figure 8, can be retained without departing from the scope of the invention.

In all the embodiments, the rotating shafts 32 are arranged so that the belts 26, and consequently the strip(s) 16, form slopes with the ground S on which the contact air rests. . The slopes are marked V in Figure 6.

This particularity is induced by a vertical offset between the base shafts 32b and the other rotating shafts 32. These slopes have the advantage of allowing the machine to overcome obstacles more easily.

Note that, in the same way as in the case of the example of Figure 8, the shafts 32, with the exception of the driving shaft 32a, can be mounted fixed in rotation, being equipped or not with bearings 44' in place of rings 44.

Also, the movement module(s) 11 of all the embodiments may comprise one or more adjustment systems 48 in belt tension.

In the case of the second embodiment, it is understood that each of the movement modules 11 comprises a system 48.

In the case of the third mode, the movement module 11 comprises two, each cooperating with a specific electromechanical actuator 18g, 18d. The intermediate wall 58 is used in particular to form a groove 49 common to the two belt tension adjustment systems 48.

Finally, whatever the embodiment considered, the chassis 14 can be equipped with snow deflectors 64 making it possible to limit the introduction of snow into the internal enclosure of the machine 10.

In practice, the tread(s) 16, 16g, 16g are shaped to present a width, measured along the axis AY, which is maximum between the flanges 20 to optimize the contact surface on the ground S and thus guarantee the best grip potential. On this basis, the tread(s) 16, 16g, 16g extend as close as possible to at least one flange 10, without however contacting it, it being understood that otherwise this would cause friction leading to a premature belt wear. There thus remains a functional flange-band clearance noted J in Figure 14b.

This flange-band play J constitutes a path for snow intrusion into the internal enclosure I of the machine 10, which exposes in particular the electrical equipment, such as the motor 24, to splashes of water.

It is thus advantageously recommended according to the invention to install on each of the flanges 20, within the internal enclosure I, at least one deflector 64 which forms an obstacle to the passage of snow from the outside towards the internal enclosure I through the functional flange-band play.

In the example of Figures 14a, 14b, the machine 10 is equipped with deflectors 64 designed to limit the introduction of snow along the bearing surface of the strip 16 on the ground S. In detail, the deflectors 64 are in the form of profiles mounted on the flanges 20 extending parallel to the edge 21 facing the ground S. These deflectors 64 extend laterally the flanges 20 so as to vertically overlap the strip-flange game J and thus form a surface opposing the introduction of pollutant directly from the ground S in the vertical direction.

In practice, snow projections rushing unexpectedly into the strip-flange game J from the ground thus come up against a deflector 64 before falling back to the ground by gravity, following the path marked by F.

It should be noted that the invention is not limited to installing the deflectors only along the edge 21 to prevent the introduction of snow directly below the machine. Indeed, it can be decided to position deflectors on all or part of the belt contour.

With regard to the embodiment of Figures 12 and 13, deflectors 64 can also be mounted on either side of the intermediate wall 58 to prevent the introduction of snow into the internal enclosure I of the machine 10 at the level of the clearance measured between this intermediate wall 58 and the left and right strips 16g, 16d.

In all the embodiments, the electric motor(s) can be powered by one or more batteries which can form an integral part of the electromechanical actuator(s), advantageously carried by the chassis 14, or cooperate with the electromechanical actuator(s) by being for example carried by the user of the machine, advantageously in a backpack.

Claims

1. Personal travel device for traveling on snow-covered ground (S) along a direction comprising at least one longitudinal component (AX), this machine comprising at least one movement module (11) and a holding module (12) on which a user of the machine can stand, the movement module (11) comprising a chassis (14), at least one tread (16) on the ground and at least one electromechanical actuator (18) for moving said at less a tread (16) relative to the chassis (14), in which:

- the chassis (14) comprises two side flanges (20) arranged opposite each other in a lateral direction (AY) and rigidly connected together;

- the electromechanical actuator (18) comprises at least one belt (26) carried by the chassis (14) between the two flanges (20) and a portion of which is longitudinally oriented (AX), the electromechanical actuator being activatable for cause said at least one belt to move relative to the chassis (14);

- said at least one tread (16) extends laterally between the two flanges (20) and is fixed to said at least one belt (26) to be driven in movement relative to the chassis (14), the tread (16) being arranged so as to be in contact with the ground (S) along the longitudinal orientation portion (AX) of belt (26).

2. Machine according to claim 1 in which the electromechanical actuator (18) comprises an electric motor (24) carried by the chassis (14), a belt guide system (28) and a transmission system (30) a rotation provided by the electric motor (24) to said at least one belt (26), including:

-- the guide system (28) comprises a plurality of shafts (32) carried by the chassis and which each extend laterally along a respective shaft axis between the two flanges (20), including a driving shaft (32a) which is mounted movable in rotation around its respective axis;

- the transmission system (30) comprises a transmission shaft (35) which is driven by the electric motor (24) and a kinematic chain (36) which ensures rotational coupling of the transmission shaft (35) with the the driving shaft (32a) of the plurality of shafts (32);

- the at least one belt (26) surrounds the shafts (32), being coupled with the driving shaft so that a rotation of the driving shaft (32a) by the electric motor (24) causes a movement of said at least one belt (26) around the shafts (32). Machine according to claim 2, in which the driving shaft (32a) is rotatable and each of the other shafts of the plurality of shafts (32):

- is mounted fixed in rotation, carrying at least one bearing (44'), for example ball or roller bearings, which cooperates in rotation with the at least one belt. Machine according to claim 2 or 3 comprising a movement module (11) comprising a tread (16) on the ground and an electromechanical actuator (18) for moving the tread (16) relative to the chassis (14), in which :

- the shafts (32) extend laterally while being carried by the two flanges (20);

- the tread (16) extends laterally along the entire extent between the two flanges (20). Machine according to claim 2 or 3 comprising two movement modules (11g, 11d) each comprising a tread (16g, 16d) on the ground and an electromechanical actuator (18g, 18d) to move the tread (16g, 16d) relative to the chassis (14), in which:

- the shafts (32) extend laterally while being carried by the two flanges (20);

- the tread (16d, 16g) extends laterally along the entire extent between the two flanges (20) of the chassis. Machine according to claim 2 or 3 comprising a movement module (11) comprising:

- a left tread (16g) and a left electromechanical actuator (18g) to move the left tread (16g);

- a right tread (16d) and a right electromechanical actuator (18d) for moving the right tread (16d); and in which:

- the chassis (14) comprises an intermediate wall (58) extending between the two flanges (20g, 20d);

- the left tread (16g) extends between the left flange (20g) and the intermediate wall (58), and the right tread (16d) extends between the intermediate wall (58) and the right flange (20d);

- the shafts of the belt guide system (28g) of the left electromechanical actuator (18g) are carried by the left flange (20g) and the intermediate wall (58);

- the rotating shafts of the belt guide system (28d) of the right electromechanical actuator (18d) are carried by the intermediate wall (58) and the right flange (20d). Machine according to any one of claims 2 to 6, in which:

- the flanges (20; 20g, 20d) laterally delimit an internal enclosure (I); And

- the kinematic chain (36) of the transmission system (30; 30g, 30d) of electromechanical actuator (18; 18g, 18d) extends to the exterior of the internal enclosure (I), this kinematic chain (36) comprising a pinion (38), a toothed wheel (40) and a chain (41) which couples the pinion (38) and the toothed wheel (40 ), of which :

- the pinion (38) is carried by the transmission shaft (35), integral in rotation with this transmission shaft (35);

-the toothed wheel (40) is carried by the driving shaft (32a), integral in rotation with this driving shaft (32a). Machine according to claim 7 taken in combination with claim 6, in which:

- the kinematic chain of the transmission system (30g) of the left actuator (18g) extends in a lateral plane along the left flange (20g);

- the kinematic chain of the transmission system (30d) of the right actuator (18d) extends in a lateral plane along the right flange (20d). Machine according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the movement module(s) (11) comprises a belt tension adjustment system (48). Machine according to claim 3 or 5, in which the holding module (12) comprises two footrests (46) or two ski hooks which are fixed to the chassis (14) and which each extend in the extension of a flask (20). Machine according to claim 4 or 6, in which the holding module (12) comprises a platform (59) which extends in a vertical direction (AZ) above the movement module (11), this platform (59) being carried by the flanges (20; 20g, 20d). Machine according to claim 5, in which the holding module

(12) comprises a platform (54) which extends laterally between the two movement modules (11), this platform (54) being carried by a twinning structure (52) which connects the flanges arranged opposite each other laterally of the two movement modules (11). Machine according to one of the preceding claims, in which the tread(s) (16; 16g, 16d) comprise relief elements on the exterior surface, intended to rest on the ground. Machine according to one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one deflector (64) in the internal enclosure (I) which extends in the lateral extension of a flange (20; 20g, 20d) to overlap a functional game ( J) measured between said flange and the tread (16; 16g, 16d) extending opposite it laterally. Machine according to any one of claims 1 to 10, in which the tread(s) (16; 16g, 16d) is covered on the exterior surface, intended to rest on the ground, with a covering which ensures adhesion with the ground (S) in one direction of belt movement and sliding with the ground (S) in another direction of belt movement.