Abstract: An idler wheel assembly, for example a rear idler wheel assembly, for a snowmobile and includes at least one cross-member that permits load transfer and possible load damping as between a pair of rear idler wheels. The cross-member may be configured to transfer lateral loads, bending loads and other types of loads between the idler wheels. The cross-member is arranged between the wheels in such a manner that it is free to rotate with the idler wheels without interference to or from other structure of a skid frame assembly of the snowmobile. In one embodiment, each idler wheel includes a cross-member that extends inward to connect to the other wheel.

Abstract: A snowmobile chassis includes dual panels that form a lighter weight and stronger tunnel preferably without the need for structural doublers, plates or other attachable reinforcement devices. The dual panels take the form of inner and outer panels coupled together with selective gaps or spaces located between the panels. The gaps laterally separate the panels and may be continuous and take a variety of shapes as defined by each panel's configuration. The arrangement of the gaps may advantageously define a desired structural load path through the tunnel, increase a section modulus with respect to a centerline of the tunnel, and reduce an overall weight of the tunnel as compared with conventional tunnels that utilize added reinforcement devices.

Abstract: A snowmobile chassis includes dual panels that form a lighter weight and stronger tunnel preferably without the need for structural doublers, plates or other attachable reinforcement devices. The dual panels take the form of inner and outer panels coupled together with selective gaps or spaces located between the panels. The gaps laterally separate the panels and may be continuous and take a variety of shapes as defined by each panel's configuration. The arrangement of the gaps may advantageously define a desired structural load path through the tunnel, increase a section modulus with respect to a centerline of the tunnel, and reduce an overall weight of the tunnel as compared with conventional tunnels that utilize added reinforcement devices.

Abstract: Apparatus is disclosed for testing the mechanical properties of a material. The apparatus comprises a sample container (10) adapted to be filled with a sample of the material, and a housing (20) within which the sample container (10) is, in use, fixedly mounted. The sample container (10) has a first, open face via which a compressive load can be applied to the sample and a second face (19) disposed orthogonally to the first, open face. At least a portion of the second face (19) is resiliently displaceable, outwardly of the sample container (10), in response to deformation of the sample brought about by application of the load.