Abstract: A robotic apparatus moveable between a bipod mode and a tripod mode includes a housing, a first leg and a second leg extending from the housing, and a retractable third leg positioned between the first leg and the second leg. The third leg is configured to extend from the housing in the tripod mode and retract at least partially into the housing in the bipod mode. The robotic apparatus also includes a motor disposed within the housing and a transmission system coupled between the motor and at least one of the first leg, the second leg, and the third leg. The transmission system is configured to move the robotic apparatus between the bipod mode where the first leg and the second leg support the housing and the tripod mode where the first leg, the second leg, and the third leg support the housing.

Abstract: A robotic apparatus moveable between a bipod mode and a tripod mode includes a housing, a first leg and a second leg extending from the housing, and a retractable third leg positioned between the first leg and the second leg. The third leg is configured to extend from the housing in the tripod mode and retract at least partially into the housing in the bipod mode. The robotic apparatus also includes a motor disposed within the housing and a transmission system coupled between the motor and at least one of the first leg, the second leg, and the third leg. The transmission system is configured to move the robotic apparatus between the bipod mode where the first leg and the second leg support the housing and the tripod mode where the first leg, the second leg, and the third leg support the housing.

Abstract: A snowmobile rear suspension is shown comprised of a linear force element (LFE) positioned outside the envelope of the snowmobile endless track. The snowmobile frame includes a chassis mounted to a tunnel, where the chassis includes a central mounting bracket. The LFE is attached at one end to the bracket and at the other end to a bell crank. The bell crank is operatively connected to the slide rails. When the slide rails collapse in normal operation, the bell crank strokes the LFE, and the suspension is progressive throughout the range.

Abstract: A snowmobile rear suspension is shown comprised of a linear force element (LFE) positioned outside the envelope of the snowmobile endless track. The snowmobile frame includes a chassis mounted to a tunnel, where the chassis includes a central mounting bracket. The LFE is attached at one end to the bracket and at the other end to a bell crank. The bell crank is operatively connected to the slide rails. When the slide rails collapse in normal operation, the bell crank strokes the LFE, and the suspension is progressive throughout the range.