Lightweight, portable, power-drive unit and accessory attachments

Abstract

The device is a portable tractor with attachments for powering skiers, skaters, snowboarders, and the like. It employs a rigid pole to deliver the thrust to a belt which converts the thrust to a pull on the skier's lower back, leaving the skier's arms, hands, legs and feet free to perform their usual skiing functions. The pole also provides leverage to turn the tractor so that it follows the skier's movements. The device provides controls over the tractor's engine to the skier's hands, or to other parts of the skier's body. The tractor has crawler treads bearing retractable cleats which automatically convert into sled runners so the skier can travel downhill pulling the tractor without dismounting the tractor. The tractor can be folded up and transported by backpack. Various attachments enable use of the tractor to power skates, sleds, snowboards and similar vehicles.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.