You can freely build on How Joseph-Armand Bombardier Designed the Modern Snowmobile
This patent expired in 1980. Every claim — 0 independent, 0 dependent — is now unenforceable. Anyone can use, reproduce, manufacture, sell, or offer for sale this technology without a license.
Original assignee
Individual
Patent granted
1962
Expired
1980
Forward citations
30
What this patent covers
The patent details a vehicle frame supported by a flexible, endless track that distributes weight to prevent sinking into deep snow. It utilizes a front-mounted engine connected to a drive sprocket that engages the track, allowing the vehicle to propel itself across uneven, soft surfaces. The design focuses on the balance between the center of gravity and the track contact area to ensure maneuverability in winter conditions.
What is now free to use
All 0 claims of US 3023824 are in the public domain. Specifically:
The 0 dependent claims add narrowing limitations and are also free.
What is NOT covered
Patent expiry frees this specific invention. Separately-patented improvements made after expiry may still be protected.
Does not cover vehicles using wheels instead of continuous tracks for propulsion.
Does not cover electric-powered drivetrains, as the patent specifies internal combustion engine configurations.
Does not cover autonomous or remote-controlled navigation systems.
Does not cover the specific steering mechanism of modern dual-ski snowmobiles.
Who is building on this today
BRP (Bombardier Recreational Products) continues to lead the industry based on the engineering legacy established by this patent. Other manufacturers like Polaris and Arctic Cat have refined these original track and suspension concepts for high-performance racing and utility.
Products built on expired version of this technology
Ski-Doo snowmobiles
Early motorized sleds used in rural Quebec
Utility vehicles for winter search and rescue
How to cite this patent in your documentation
Individual. US Patent 3023824. Endless track vehicle. Granted 1962, expired 1980. Now in the public domain.
Note: This is a convenience citation. Consult a patent attorney for formal freedom-to-operate analysis.
PatentBrief is an educational resource and does not provide legal advice. Patent expiration information is derived from USPTO records and may not reflect continuation patents, divisional filings, or separately-patented improvements. For commercial use or production decisions, obtain a formal freedom-to-operate (FTO) opinion from a registered patent attorney.