Track assembly for a tracked vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a track assembly (T1, T2) for a tracked vehicle (V). The track assembly comprises a track support beam (10) for supporting road wheels (RW), drive wheel members (DW) and drive means (D) for operating the drive wheel members, and an endless track (E) arranged around the road wheels (RW) and the drive wheel members (DW). The drive means (D) comprises a drive unit (M) for driving the drive wheel members (DW) and a brake device (300) for braking the drive wheel members (DW). The track support beam (10) has an outer side (10a) facing away from a vehicle body (B) of the vehicle and an inner side (10b) facing towards the vehicle body when the track assembly is connected to the vehicle body (B). The drive means (D) comprises a drive shaft (40) coaxially arranged with respect to a central axis (Z) of the drive wheel members (DW) for rotating the drive wheel members (DW). The brake device (300) is configured to be bearing journal-mounted to an outer portion (40a) of the drive shaft (40) protruding from the outer side (10a) of the track support beam (10).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to track assemblies for tracked vehicles. Specifically, it relates to tracked vehicles comprising at least one such track assembly. Background Technology

[0002] A tracked vehicle may include a pair of track assemblies, wherein each track assembly includes a track support beam, a drive wheel assembly, a plurality of road wheels, and an annular track that travels on the drive wheel assembly and the plurality of road wheels. The drive wheel assembly and the plurality of road wheels are rotatably fixed to the track support beam. The drive unit of the tracked vehicle's drive system may be configured to drive a drive shaft, which is further configured to rotate the drive wheel assembly, the drive wheel assembly being arranged to drive the annular track to propel the tracked vehicle.

[0003] However, improvements are needed to the track components used in tracked vehicles.

[0004] Purpose of the invention

[0005] The object of the present invention is to provide a track assembly for a tracked vehicle, which facilitates access to the components of the drive mechanism of the track assembly and facilitates the assembly and disassembly of the drive mechanism of the track assembly.

[0006] Another object of the present invention is to provide a tracked vehicle having at least one such track assembly. Summary of the Invention

[0007] These and other objectives, which will become apparent from the following description, are achieved by a track assembly for a tracked vehicle and a tracked vehicle as set forth in the main aspects of the invention. Preferred embodiments of the track assembly are defined in the appended aspects of the invention.

[0008] Specifically, the object of the present invention is achieved by a track assembly for a tracked vehicle. The track assembly is configured to connect to the vehicle body. The track assembly includes a track support beam configured to support a plurality of road wheels, drive wheel members, and a drive mechanism for operating the drive wheel members, the drive wheel members being configured to rotate about a central axis. An annular track is disposed around the road wheels and drive wheel members. The drive mechanism includes a drive unit for driving the drive wheel members and a braking device for providing braking function to the drive wheel members of the track assembly. The track support beam has an outer portion configured to face away from the vehicle body when the track assembly is connected to the vehicle body and an opposite inner portion configured to face the vehicle body when the track assembly is connected to the vehicle body. The drive mechanism includes a drive shaft configured to be coaxially arranged relative to the central axis of the drive wheel members for rotating the drive wheel members. The braking device is configured to be mounted by bearing journals to an outer portion of the drive shaft projecting from the outer portion of the track support beam. The outer portion of the drive shaft projects axially from the outer portion of the track support beam.

[0009] This facilitates the development of track assemblies with drive units that have easy access to basic components such as braking devices and related parts. Consequently, track assemblies with drive units that are easy to assemble and disassemble can be provided.

[0010] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the braking device includes a braking device housing configured to provide a sealing element for the braking member of the braking device, wherein the braking device is configured to be mounted on the portion axially projecting from the outer side of the track support beam via a bearing journal to be connected to the drive shaft, thereby allowing rotation of the drive shaft relative to the braking device housing.

[0011] According to an embodiment of the track assembly, the drive shaft is configured to be mounted in the track support beam with bearing journals to allow rotation of the drive wheel assembly relative to the track support beam. The drive shaft is configured to extend through the track support beam to an outer portion, thus providing the outer portion of the drive shaft. Therefore, by arranging the drive shaft such that it is mounted in the track support beam with bearing journals, the drive unit can be effectively supported in the track support beam, for example, by means of a bearing configuration. Consequently, the drive shaft of the drive unit is substantially coaxial with the central axis of the drive wheel assembly, thereby providing an efficient and radially compact drive unit by means of the track assembly, facilitating high operational reliability and efficiency when used in tracked vehicles. This solution can be easily and effectively applied to existing track assemblies and existing drive wheel assemblies.

[0012] According to one embodiment of the track assembly, the braking device includes a torque arm configured to connect to the track support beam to substantially prevent rotation of the braking device about the central axis. This provides a radially compact drive unit, which contributes to the effective functioning of the braking device in braking functions associated with driving and / or parking.

[0013] According to an embodiment of the track assembly, the torque arm is configured to provide torque resistance associated with braking actions related to the drive shaft by means of the braking device. This allows for a radially compact drive unit, which contributes to the effective functioning of the braking device in braking functions associated with driving and / or parking.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the track assembly, the drive unit includes a central support rod configured to coaxially coincide with the central axis of the drive wheel assembly, the central support rod being configured to supportively connect the braking device and the drive unit. This facilitates easy assembly and disassembly. It also facilitates easy axial assembly and disassembly. Consequently, a radially compact solution can be provided, in which existing drive wheel assemblies can be easily applied to the drive unit for efficient operation.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the track assembly, the central support rod is configured to extend through the drive shaft to coaxially provide the connection between the drive unit and the braking device. This facilitates easy assembly and disassembly. It also facilitates easy axial assembly and disassembly. Consequently, a radially compact solution can be provided, where existing drive wheel components can be easily applied to the drive unit for efficient operation.

[0016] According to one embodiment of the track assembly, the drive shaft has an inner portion that projectes axially from the inner side of the track support beam into the transmission of the drive unit, wherein a central support rod extending through the drive shaft is configured to connect to the transmission. This facilitates easy assembly and disassembly. According to one aspect of the disclosure, an end portion of the central support rod is configured to provide the connection between the drive unit and the braking device by connecting the end portion to the transmission. According to one aspect of the disclosure, the end portion of the central support rod is configured to connect to the transmission to a portion of a gear carrier of the drive shaft, the central support rod being connected to the gear carrier such that it rotates with a portion of the gear carrier and thus with the drive shaft. According to one aspect of the disclosure, the end portion is configured to be fastened to the portion of the gear carrier by means of a threaded engagement configuration. According to one aspect, the end portion of the central support rod includes or is composed of a threaded engagement member configured to screw into a threaded opening in the portion of the gear carrier to provide the connection.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the track assembly further includes a fastening device configured to be arranged and connected to the outer end portion of the braking device to facilitate the assembly and disassembly of the drive unit associated with the braking device. Therefore, by providing such a fastening device at the outer end portion of the braking device, easy assembly and disassembly of the drive unit associated with the braking device can be provided.

[0018] According to an embodiment of the track assembly, the fastening device includes a first fastening member configured to provide attachment to the central support rod when the central support rod is arranged to pass through the drive shaft, the central support rod being removably attached by means of the fastening member. Thus, the assembly and disassembly of the drive unit associated with the braking device can be easily and efficiently provided by simply attaching the central support rod using the first fastening member, such as a connecting member like a bolt-fitting member.

[0019] According to an embodiment of the track assembly, the fastening device includes a second fastening member configured to be arranged around the drive shaft to provide a locking function for preventing axial movement of the braking device. Thus, locking the braking device to prevent axial movement can be easily and effectively provided by simply attaching the second fastening member around the drive shaft to provide a stop for the braking device.

[0020] According to an embodiment of the track assembly, the braking device includes a brake device housing configured to provide a sealing element for the braking member of the braking device. The housing has a first end portion configured to face the track support beam and a second end portion configured to face away from the track support beam. The second end portion has a central opening for access to the fastening device, facilitating the assembly of the braking device to and from the track assembly. Therefore, by providing such a brake device housing with the central opening, easy access to the fastening device at the outer end portion of the braking device is provided, thereby enabling easy assembly and disassembly of the drive unit associated with the braking device.

[0021] According to an embodiment of the track assembly, the braking device includes a closure element for closing the opening, the closure element being operable between an open position facilitating access to the fastening device and a closed position providing the sealing element. Therefore, by providing a closure element for opening and closing the central opening, easy access to the fastening device is provided at the outer end portion of the braking device for easy assembly and disassembly of the drive unit associated with the braking device in the open position, and an airtight seal is provided for the braking device in the closed position.

[0022] According to an embodiment of the track assembly, the braking device further includes a hollow brake shaft configured to be arranged about the drive shaft such that the brake shaft rotates by means of the drive shaft. The brake device housing is configured to be mounted to the brake shaft via bearing journals, such that when the brake device is connected to the drive shaft, a bearing-based journal mounting to the outer portion of the drive shaft is provided. Therefore, by providing a braking device with such a hollow brake shaft arranged around the drive shaft, a radially compact drive device with a radially compact braking device can be provided, which contributes to the effective function of the braking device in braking functions associated with driving and / or parking.

[0023] According to an embodiment of the track assembly, the braking device is configured to be arranged within the periphery of the annular track in a direction substantially perpendicular to both the longitudinal and transverse directions of the annular track. This provides a compact braking device that does not extend beyond the annular track of the track assembly when easily accessible from the outer side of the track support beam.

[0024] According to one embodiment of the track assembly, the drive unit is configured to be coaxially arranged with respect to the central axis of the drive wheel component. This provides a radially compact solution.

[0025] According to an embodiment of the track assembly, the drive wheel component includes an outer drive wheel arranged to connect to the outer side of the track support beam and an inner drive wheel arranged to connect to the inner side of the track support beam, wherein the journal, via a bearing of the drive shaft, is centrally located in the track support beam between the outer drive wheel and the inner drive wheel. This provides a radially compact solution where existing drive wheel components can be easily applied to the drive unit for efficient operation.

[0026] Specifically, the object of the present invention is achieved by a tracked vehicle comprising at least one track assembly as described herein.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the tracked vehicle includes a left track assembly, a right track assembly, and a vehicle body, wherein the track assembly is suspended to the vehicle body by means of a suspension device.

[0028] Tracked vehicles may include one or more tracked vehicle units. According to one embodiment, a tracked vehicle includes more than one tracked vehicle unit, the vehicle units being hingedly connected to each other.

[0029] According to an embodiment, the tracked vehicle is an articulated tracked vehicle, which includes a first vehicle unit and a second vehicle unit pivotally connected to the first vehicle unit via an articulated joint, each of the vehicle units including a body and a pair of track assemblies suspended to the respective body. Attached Figure Description

[0030] For a better understanding of this disclosure, reference is made to the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein the same reference numerals denote the same parts throughout the several views, and in the drawings:

[0031] Figure 1a A side view of a tracked vehicle including a track assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is schematically illustrated.

[0032] Figure 1b A side view of an articulated tracked vehicle including a track assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is schematically illustrated.

[0033] Figure 2 A schematic plan view of a tracked vehicle with a track assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, the track assembly including a drive unit.

[0034] Figure 3a A perspective view of a pair of track assemblies of a tracked vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention is schematically illustrated.

[0035] Figure 3b schematically illustrated Figure 3aA side view of the track assembly in the middle;

[0036] Figure 4a A side view of a drive device for a track assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is schematically illustrated.

[0037] Figure 4b An embodiment according to the present disclosure is illustrated schematically. Figure 4a A side view of the drive unit, which is connected to the track support beam of the track assembly and is equipped with a drive wheel component;

[0038] Figure 5 A perspective view of a drive device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is schematically illustrated. The drive device is connected to the track support beam of the track assembly and is provided with a drive wheel component.

[0039] Figure 6 An embodiment according to the present disclosure is illustrated schematically. Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the drive unit, which is connected to the track support beam of the track assembly and is equipped with a drive wheel component;

[0040] Figure 7 An embodiment according to the present disclosure is illustrated schematically. Figure 6 Cross-sectional view of the braking device of the drive unit in the middle;

[0041] Figure 8 An embodiment according to the present disclosure is illustrated schematically. Figure 7 The end portion of the cross-sectional view of the braking device in the diagram;

[0042] Figure 9a The diagram schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of the front portion of a track support beam according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and a bearing configuration arranged within the front portion, as well as a cross-section of a drive shaft mounted on a bearing journal of the bearing configuration.

[0043] Figure 9b An embodiment according to the present disclosure is illustrated schematically. Figure 9a A cross-sectional view of the front portion of the track support beam; and

[0044] Figure 9c An embodiment according to the present disclosure is illustrated schematically. Figure 9b A side view of the front portion of the track support beam. Detailed Implementation

[0045] In the following text, the term "track support beam" refers to a structural element arranged to support ground engagement devices—for example, annular tracks, drive wheel components, and road wheels.

[0046] In the following text, the term "track assembly" refers to a unit of a tracked vehicle that includes a track support beam, a drive wheel assembly and a road wheel, and a circumferential track, the unit being arranged to include a ground engagement device and configured to propel the vehicle and thus form at least a portion of the drive configuration of the tracked vehicle.

[0047] In the following text, the term "track assembly pair" refers to two opposite track assemblies of a vehicle unit, one track assembly constituting the right track assembly and the opposite track assembly constituting the left track assembly.

[0048] In the following text, the term "articulated vehicle" refers to a vehicle having at least a front vehicle unit and a rear vehicle unit, which are capable of pivoting relative to each other about at least one joint.

[0049] In the following text, the term "vehicle body" refers to any vehicle structure configured to be supported by track assemblies of a tracked vehicle, and may include or constitute a vehicle chassis. The term "vehicle body" can refer to a frame, one or more beams, etc. The term "vehicle body" can refer to both the chassis and the body of a vehicle.

[0050] In the following text, when referring to the drive wheel assembly being configured to rotate about a central axis, the term "central axis" refers to the axis about which the drive wheel assembly of the track assembly is configured to rotate, and therefore refers to the axis that extends in the lateral direction and is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the annular track of the track assembly.

[0051] Figure 1a A side view of a tracked vehicle V according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is schematically illustrated.

[0052] The tracked vehicle V includes a body B, which, according to one aspect of this disclosure, includes the chassis and body of the vehicle V.

[0053] Tracked vehicle V includes a left track assembly T1 and a right track assembly for driving vehicle V, wherein the left track assembly T1 is in Figure 1a The image is shown in the diagram. Each track assembly includes a drive wheel member DW, a tension wheel TW, a set of road wheels RW, and an annular track E arranged to travel on said wheels. Thus, the annular track E is arranged around said wheels. Here, the drive wheel member DW is arranged in front, the tension wheel TW in the rear, and the road wheels RW are arranged between the drive wheel member DW and the tension wheel TW. However, the tracked vehicle according to this disclosure can have a track assembly with any suitable arrangement of the drive wheel member, tension wheel, and road wheels. According to one aspect of this disclosure, the tension wheel can be arranged in front, the drive wheel member in the rear, and the road wheels arranged between the tension wheel and the drive wheel member.

[0054] The corresponding track assembly's annular track E is arranged to be driven and thus rotated by means of the drive wheel member DW. The corresponding track assembly T1 of the tracked vehicle V includes a drive device D for operating and thus driving the drive wheel member DW. The drive device D is configured to be coaxially arranged relative to the drive wheel member DW.

[0055] Figure 1b A side view of a tracked vehicle V1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is schematically illustrated.

[0056] The tracked vehicle V1 is an articulated tracked vehicle V1, which includes a first vehicle unit V1a and a second vehicle unit V1b pivotally connected to the first vehicle unit V1a via an articulated joint Y. Each of the vehicle units V1a and V1b includes a body B and a pair of track assemblies T1 suspended to the respective body B, and the left track assembly T1 of the respective vehicle units V1a and V1b is shown.

[0057] Each track assembly includes a drive wheel component DW, a tension wheel TW, a set of road wheels RW, and an annular track E arranged to travel on said wheels. Therefore, the annular track E is arranged around said wheels. Here, the drive wheel component DW is arranged in front, the tension wheel TW is arranged behind, and the road wheels RW are arranged between the drive wheel component DW and the tension wheel TW.

[0058] The annular tracks E of the respective track assemblies of the corresponding vehicle units V1a and V1b of the tracked vehicle V1 are arranged to be driven and thus rotated by means of the drive wheel member DW. The respective track assemblies T1 of the vehicle units V1a and V1b of the tracked vehicle V1 may include a drive device D for operating and thus driving the drive wheel member DW. The drive device D is configured to be arranged coaxially with respect to the drive wheel member DW.

[0059] Figure 2 An embodiment according to the present disclosure is illustrated schematically. Figure 1a A plan view of the tracked vehicle V. Figure 3a The schematic diagram illustrates a perspective view of the track assembly of a tracked vehicle relative to T1 and T2, and Figure 3b schematically illustrated Figure 3a Side view of the left track component T1.

[0060] The tracked vehicle V includes a left track assembly T1, a right track assembly T2, and a vehicle body B. The left track assembly T1 and the right track assembly T2 provide a track assembly pair T1, T2. Therefore, the tracked vehicle V is configured to include a pair of track assemblies T1, T2, which are arranged to suspend the vehicle body B to allow relative movement between the vehicle body B and each track assembly T1, T2. The respective track assemblies T1, T2 have longitudinal extensions configured to extend in a longitudinal extension of the vehicle V when assembled to the vehicle body B.

[0061] The track assemblies T1 and T2 are suspended to the vehicle body by means of suspension devices S1 and S2, for example, see Figure 3a The suspension device according to this disclosure can be any suitable suspension device for suspending and supporting the vehicle body.

[0062] The track assembly pair T1 and T2, specifically the left track assembly T1 and the right track assembly T2, includes a track support beam 10 configured to support... Figure 2 The diagram shows multiple road wheels, drive wheel components DW, and a drive device D for operating the drive wheel components DW. The left track assembly T1 includes a track support beam 10 configured to support the multiple road wheels, drive wheel components DW, and drive device D. The right track assembly T2 includes a track support beam 10 configured to support the multiple road wheels, drive wheel components DW, and drive device D. The left track assembly T1 and right track assembly T2 of the track assembly pair T1 and T2 include an annular track E arranged around the road wheels and drive wheel components DW. The track support beam 10 of the corresponding track assemblies T1 and T2 has a longitudinal extension configured to extend in the longitudinal extension of the vehicle V when the track assembly is assembled to the vehicle body B.

[0063] According to one aspect of this disclosure, for example, Figure 3a As shown, suspension devices S1 and S2 have a leaf spring configuration. According to... Figure 3a The suspension devices S1 and S2 in the embodiment shown have

[0064] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the suspension devices S1, S2 include a front leaf spring element S1, which is laterally arranged in the front portion of the tracked vehicle V relative to the longitudinal extension of the left track assembly T1 and the right track assembly T2. The front leaf spring element S1 is arranged between the left track assembly T1 and the right track assembly T2 to connect to the track support beam 10 of the respective track assemblies T1, T2. The front leaf spring element S1 is connected to the track support beam 10 of the left track assembly T1 with a first end portion and to the track support beam 10 of the right track assembly with a opposite second end portion. The first end portion of the front leaf spring element S1 is connected to the front portion of the track support beam 10 of the left track assembly T1, which is connected to the drive wheel member and drive device D of the left track assembly T1. The second end portion of the front leaf spring element S1 is connected to the front portion of the track support beam 10 of the right track assembly T2, which is connected to the drive wheel member and drive device of the right track assembly T1.

[0065] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the front leaf spring element S1 has a U-shaped configuration S1A, which has a double-bend portion / transition portion and a lower portion, wherein the double-bend portion is configured to be arranged to connect to a corresponding side of the vehicle body, and the lower portion is arranged to extend below the vehicle body. Figure 3a Not shown in the diagram. The front leaf spring element S1 includes a first attachment member S1-1 and a second attachment member S1-2. The first attachment member is arranged to connect to a first curved portion of the U-shaped configuration S1A, and the second attachment member is arranged to connect to an opposite second curved portion of the U-shaped configuration S1A. The first attachment member S1-1 and the second attachment member S1-2 are configured to provide for... Figure 3a The attachment of the vehicle body is not shown in the figure. The U-shaped configuration S1A is also configured to laterally project from each side of the vehicle body and attach to the track support beams 10 of the left track assembly T1 and the right track assembly T2.

[0066] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the suspension devices S1, S2 include a rear leaf spring element S2, which is laterally arranged in the front portion of the tracked vehicle V relative to the longitudinal extension of the left track assembly T1 and the right track assembly T2. The rear leaf spring element S2 is arranged between the left track assembly T1 and the right track assembly T2 to connect to the track support beam 10 of the respective track assemblies T1, T2. The rear leaf spring element S2 is connected with a first end portion to the rear portion of the track support beam 10 of the left track assembly T1, and with an opposite second end portion to the rear portion of the track support beam 10 of the right track assembly.

[0067] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the rear leaf spring element S2 has a U-shaped configuration S2A, which has a double-bend portion / transition portion and a lower portion, wherein the double-bend portion is configured to connect to a corresponding side of the vehicle body, and the lower portion is configured to extend below the vehicle body. Figure 3a Not shown in the diagram. The rear leaf spring element S2 includes a first attachment member S2-1 and a second attachment member S2-2. The first attachment member is arranged to connect to a first curved portion of the U-shaped configuration S2A, and the second attachment member is arranged to connect to an opposite second curved portion of the U-shaped configuration S2A. The first attachment member S2-1 and the second attachment member S2-2 are configured to provide for... Figure 3a The attachment of the vehicle body is not shown in the figure. The U-shaped configuration S2A is also configured to laterally project from each side of the vehicle body and attach to the track support beams 10 of the left track assembly T1 and the right track assembly T2.

[0068] According to one aspect of this disclosure (not shown), the suspension device may include a leaf spring device having a portion arranged laterally relative to the longitudinal extension of the vehicle, wherein the leaf spring device includes L-shaped leaf spring members, each leaf spring member having a first portion attached to the vehicle body, a second portion attached to a track support beam, and a transition portion located between the first and second portions, such that compressive stress and tensile stress are located in the transition portion.

[0069] The drive wheel assembly DW is configured to rotate about its central axis Z. The drive devices D of the corresponding track assemblies T1 and T2 are configured to be coaxially arranged with respect to the central axis Z of the drive wheel assembly DW. The drive devices D of the corresponding track assemblies T1 and T2 have a main extension direction that is substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the annular track and substantially parallel to the transverse direction of the annular track E.

[0070] The drive unit D of the corresponding track assemblies T1 and T2 includes a motor unit 100 for driving the drive wheel assembly DW, a transmission unit 200 for transmitting torque from the motor unit 100 to the drive wheel assembly DW, and a braking unit 300 for braking the drive wheel assembly DW. The motor unit 100 may include an electric motor or a hydraulic motor. The motor unit 100 will be described in more detail below.

[0071] like Figure 2 As schematically illustrated, the drive units D of the corresponding track assemblies T1 and T2 can be operatively connected to a power supply unit 400, which provides power to operate the drive units D of the corresponding track assemblies T1 and T2. The power supply unit 400 can be any suitable power supply unit for supplying power to the drive units D, i.e., supplying power to the motor assembly 100 of the drive units D.

[0072] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the power supply device 400 may include an internal combustion engine. According to one aspect of this disclosure, the internal combustion engine may be a diesel engine.

[0073] According to an alternative aspect of this disclosure, the power supply device 400 may include an energy supply device, such as a battery supply device and / or a fuel cell device, such as a hydrogen fuel cell.

[0074] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the power supply device 400 may include one or more generator units for generating high voltage. One or more control devices, such as electronic control units, are provided for controlling, for example, each drive device D. These control devices include one or more control devices configured to receive high voltage from the generator units and convert the high voltage into an AC voltage, a drive voltage, for the motor assembly 100 of the drive device D. According to one aspect of this disclosure, the power supply device 400 is configured to provide a DC bus configured to distribute power, i.e., voltage, to, for example, each drive device D.

[0075] For tracked vehicles that are articulated and have a front vehicle unit and a rear vehicle unit, such as... Figure 1b As shown, this power supply 400 can be arranged in the front vehicle unit or the rear vehicle unit, or in both the front vehicle unit and the rear vehicle unit.

[0076] Figure 4a A side view of the drive unit D is schematically illustrated, and Figure 4b A side view of the drive unit D supported by the track support beam 10, according to one aspect of the present disclosure, is schematically illustrated.

[0077] exist Figure 4b In this configuration, the drive unit D is mounted to the track support beam 10 via a bearing journal. Figure 4b In this configuration, the drive device D operably supports the drive wheel component DW.

[0078] Figure 5 A perspective view of the drive unit D, which is mounted to the track support beam 10 via a bearing journal, is schematically illustrated. The drive unit D operatively supports the drive wheel component DW.

[0079] Therefore, the drive unit D is configured to be mounted in the track support beam 10 with a bearing journal to allow the drive wheel component DW to rotate relative to the track support beam 10 and to support the drive unit D.

[0080] like Figure 2 and Figure 5As shown, the track support beam 10 has an outer portion 10a configured to face away from the vehicle body B when the track assembly is connected to the vehicle body B, and an opposite inner portion 10b configured to face the vehicle body when the track assembly is connected to the vehicle body B. In this document, when referring to the track support beam 10 having an outer portion 10a configured to face away from the vehicle body B when the track assembly is connected to the vehicle body B, and an opposite inner portion 10b configured to face the vehicle body when the track assembly is connected to the vehicle body B, it refers to a portion of the vehicle body B, such as a vehicle chassis, arranged between the right track assembly and the left track assembly, and thus between the right drive wheel member and the left drive wheel member. Therefore, the track support beam 10 has an outer portion 10a that faces away from the opposite track assembly in the lateral direction of the vehicle V and in the lateral direction relative to its longitudinal extension, and an opposite inner portion 10b that faces the opposite track assembly in the lateral direction of the vehicle V and in the lateral direction relative to its longitudinal extension.

[0081] like Figure 2 As schematically illustrated, the outer side 10a of the track support beam 10 of the left track assembly T1 of the tracked vehicle V is configured to face away from the right track assembly T2 of the tracked vehicle V. Figure 2 As schematically illustrated, the outer side 10a of the track support beam 10 of the right track assembly T2 of the tracked vehicle V is configured to face away from the left track assembly T1 of the tracked vehicle V.

[0082] like Figure 2 In the schematic diagram, the inner side 10b of the track support beam 10 of the left track assembly T1 of the tracked vehicle V is configured to face the right track assembly T2 of the tracked vehicle V. Figure 2 As schematically illustrated, the inner side 10b of the track support beam 10 of the right track assembly T2 of the tracked vehicle V is configured to face the left track assembly T1 of the tracked vehicle V.

[0083] The drive wheel component DW includes an outer drive wheel DW1 and an inner drive wheel DW2. The outer drive wheel DW1 is arranged to be connected to the outer side of the track support beam 10, and the inner drive wheel DW2 is arranged to be connected to the inner side of the track support beam 10.

[0084] Figure 6 A schematic cross-sectional view of the drive unit D supported by the track support beam 10 according to one aspect of this disclosure is shown. The cross-section is along the axial direction, i.e., the direction of the axis Z. The drive unit D is mounted to the track support beam 10 by bearing journals.

[0085] The drive unit D includes a drive shaft 40 for driving the drive wheel member DW. The drive wheel member DW is configured to be operatively connected to the drive shaft 40. According to one aspect of this disclosure, the drive wheel member DW is configured to be connected to the drive shaft 40 by means of a splined connector.

[0086] The track assembly for the corresponding drive unit D includes a bearing configuration 20 arranged in the track support beam 10 for providing a bearing for the drive unit D. Therefore, the drive unit D is associated with the bearing configuration 20. According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the track support beam 10 has a front portion 12 in which the bearing configuration 20 is configured to be arranged. According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the front portion 12 of the track support beam 10 has a through hole H. When the drive unit D and the drive wheel assembly DW are connected to the track support beam 10, the center of the through hole H will correspond to the central axis Z.

[0087] Therefore, the track assembly for the corresponding drive device D includes a bearing configuration 20 arranged in the track support beam 10. Therefore, the drive device D is configured to be mounted with the bearing journal of the bearing configuration. Therefore, the drive device is configured to be mounted in the track support beam 10 with the bearing journal by means of the bearing configuration 20. The drive device D is configured to be suspended by means of the bearing configuration 20 arranged in the track support beam 10. The bearing configuration 20 arranged in the track support beam 10 is configured to support the drive device D. According to one aspect of this disclosure, the bearing configuration 20 is configured to be connected to the through hole H to facilitate the rotation and support of the drive wheel assembly D.

[0088] Figure 9a The diagram schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of the front portion 12 of a track support beam 10 according to one aspect of the present disclosure and a bearing configuration 20 arranged within the front portion, as well as a cross-section of a drive shaft 40 mounted on the bearing journal of the bearing configuration 20 and extending through the through hole H of the front portion 12. Figure 9b A schematic cross-sectional view of the front portion 12 of the track support beam 10 according to one aspect of the present disclosure is shown, and Figure 9c A side view of the front portion 12 of a track support beam 10 according to one aspect of the present disclosure is schematically illustrated.

[0089] The bearing configuration 20 is configured to be arranged in the through hole H of the front portion 12 of the track support beam 10. According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the bearing configuration 20 is a tapered roller bearing assembly.

[0090] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the bearing configuration 20 includes a first roller bearing 22 and a second roller bearing 24 opposite to it. According to another aspect of this disclosure, the first roller bearing 22 and the second roller bearing 24 are arranged to connect with each other within the through-hole H of the front portion 12 of the track support beam 10 to optimize the tilting torque of the drive device D. According to another aspect of this disclosure, the first roller bearing 22 and the second roller bearing 24 are configured to connect with each other within the through-hole H of the front portion 12 of the track support beam 10, such that there is a certain pretension in the roller bearings 22, 24 of the bearing configuration 20. According to another aspect of this disclosure, the tapered roller bearing assembly includes the first roller bearing 22 and the second roller bearing 24 opposite to it.

[0091] like Figure 6 and Figures 9a to 9c As shown, the front portion 12 of the track support beam 10 is configured to provide a bearing housing for the bearing configuration 20. According to one aspect of this disclosure, the front portion 12 of the track support beam 10 may be represented as a bearing housing 12 of the track support beam 10. The bearing housing 12 may be an integral part of the track support beam 10 or attached to the remaining portion of the track support beam 10. The track support beam 10 is configured to support, for example... Figures 3a to 3b The remaining portions of the road wheel RW and tensioner TW shown can be represented as: Figure 2 The schematic diagram shows the road wheel and tension wheel portion 14 of the track support beam 10.

[0092] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the bearing housing 12 has a cylindrical configuration, wherein the central axis of the bearing housing corresponds to the central axis Z, and the drive wheel component DW is configured to rotate about the central axis Z by means of the drive shaft 40.

[0093] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the bearing housing 12 has an outer portion 12o facing an orthogonal direction relative to the lateral direction when the track assembly is assembled to the body of the tracked vehicle. According to another aspect of this disclosure, the bearing housing 12 has an inner portion 12i opposite to the outer portion 12o, thereby providing an internal space corresponding to the through-hole H. According to another aspect of this disclosure, the outer portion 12o is a radially outer portion 12o, and the inner portion 12i is a radially inner portion 12i.

[0094] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the bearing housing 12 has an axially outer portion 12a that connects to the outer side of the opening of the through hole H, the axially outer portion 12a facing in the same direction as the outer portion 10a of the track support beam 10, i.e., away from the vehicle body B. According to another aspect of this disclosure, the bearing housing 12 has an axially inner portion 12b that connects to the inner side of the opening of the through hole H, the axially inner portion 12a facing in the opposite direction to the axially outer portion 12a and facing in the same direction as the inner portion 10b of the track support beam 10, i.e., towards the vehicle body B.

[0095] like Figure 9a As shown, the bearing configuration 20 is configured to be connected to the inner side 12i of the bearing housing 12.

[0096] The bearing housing 12 of the track support beam 10, i.e. the front portion 12, includes a lubricant receiving member 12L for receiving the lubricant used by the bearing configuration 20.

[0097] The drive shaft 40 of the drive unit D is configured to extend through the through hole H of the front portion 12 of the track support beam 10 and connect to the bearing configuration 20. According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the drive shaft 40 of the drive unit D is configured to be mounted on the bearing journal of the bearing configuration 20 to allow rotation of the drive wheel assembly relative to the track support beam 10 and to support the drive unit D.

[0098] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the drive shaft 40 is configured to be connected to the bearing configuration 20 by means of a spline connection, such that the drive shaft 40 can rotate relative to the track support beam 10.

[0099] The drive shaft 40 of the drive unit D is configured to extend through the through-hole H of the front portion 12 of the track support beam 10, such that a portion 40a of the drive shaft 40 protrudes axially from the through-hole and connects to the outer side portion 10a of the track support beam 10. According to one aspect of this disclosure, the outer drive wheel DW1 is configured to be attached to a portion of the drive shaft 40 that protrudes from the outer side portion of the track support beam 10.

[0100] The drive shaft 40 of the drive unit D is configured to extend through the through-hole H of the front portion 12 of the track support beam 10, such that a portion 40b of the drive shaft 40 protrudes axially from the through-hole and connects to the inner portion 10b of the track support beam 10. According to one aspect of this disclosure, the inner drive wheel DW2 is configured to be attached to a portion of the drive shaft 40 that protrudes from the inner portion of the track support beam 10.

[0101] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the drive shaft 40 extends laterally through the through hole H relative to the longitudinal extension of the track support beam 10. According to another aspect of this disclosure, the drive shaft 40 has a laterally extending portion 40c configured to be disposed in the through hole and connected to the bearing configuration for journal mounting within the front portion 12 of the track support beam 10.

[0102] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the drive shaft 40 having the lateral extension with the central portion 40c has an outer extension 40a configured to project outwardly from the track support beam into the braking device 300. The drive shaft 40 having the lateral extension with the central portion 40c has an inner extension 40b configured to project inwardly from the track support beam into the transmission device 200. Therefore, the inner extension 40b of the drive shaft 40 is arranged to connect to the transmission device 200 such that torque from the transmission device 200 is transmitted to the drive shaft 40.

[0103] Therefore, according to one aspect of this disclosure, the bearing configuration 20 is centrally arranged in the through hole H of the track support beam 10 between the outer drive wheel DW1 and the inner drive wheel DW2.

[0104] The outer drive wheel DW1 and the inner drive wheel DW2 are arranged coaxially relative to each other at a certain distance from each other along the axis Z, wherein the front portion 12 of the track support beam is arranged between the outer drive wheel DW1 and the inner drive wheel DW2, such that the through hole H is arranged coaxially with the axis Z between the outer drive wheel DW1 and the inner drive wheel DW2.

[0105] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the drive device D is supported between the outer drive wheel DW1 and the inner drive wheel DW2 in the through hole H of the outer portion 12 of the track support beam 10. The drive shaft 40 of the drive device D is also supported between the outer drive wheel DW1 and the inner drive wheel DW2 in the through hole H of the outer portion 12 of the track support beam 10.

[0106] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the drive unit D is supported between the outer drive wheel DW1 and the inner drive wheel DW2 in the through hole H of the outer portion 12 of the track support beam 10 by supporting the drive shaft 40 of the drive unit D using the bearing configuration 20. Therefore, the bearing configuration 20 is centrally arranged between the outer drive wheel DW1 and the inner drive wheel DW2 in the through hole H of the track support beam 10.

[0107] As described above, the drive device D includes a motor device 100 for driving the drive wheel component DW, a transmission device 200 for transmitting torque from the motor device 100 to the drive wheel component DW, and a braking device 300 for braking the drive wheel component DW.

[0108] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the braking device 300 is configured to be connected to the outer side 10a of the track support beam 10.

[0109] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the transmission device 200 is configured to be connected to the inner side 10b of the track support beam 10, and the motor device 100 is configured to be arranged inside the transmission device 200 such that the transmission device 200 is arranged between the motor device 100 and the braking device 300.

[0110] The motor assembly 100 may include an electric motor or a hydraulic motor. The motor assembly 100 includes a motor housing 110 for accommodating components associated with the motor assembly 100. The motor assembly 100 includes a motor 120 for the drive. The motor 120 is configured to be housed within the housing 110.

[0111] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the motor includes a stator 120a and a rotor 120b, the stator 120a being configured to be fixedly connected to the motor housing 110 of the motor 100, and the rotor 120b being used to provide rotational movement of the motor shaft 140 relative to the stator 120a.

[0112] According to one aspect of this disclosure, power supply, for example Figure 2 The power source 400 shown in the schematic diagram can be configured to provide power to the motor device 100, that is, to the rotor 120a that operates the motor 120 and thus the motor shaft 140.

[0113] The motor assembly includes a bearing configuration B100 disposed within the motor housing 110 of the motor assembly 100 for providing a bearing for the motor shaft 140. According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the bearing configuration B100 is a deep groove ball bearing assembly. According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the motor shaft 140 is configured to be connected to the bearing configuration B100 by means of a spline connection, such that the motor shaft 140 is rotatable relative to the motor housing 110.

[0114] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the motor shaft 140 is configured to be operatively connected to the transmission 200 for transmitting torque from the motor shaft 140 to the drive shaft 40.

[0115] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the transmission device 200 includes a transmission device housing 210 for accommodating components associated with the transmission device 200.

[0116] The transmission device 200 of the drive device D includes a torque arm 220, for example, see Figure 5 The torque arm 220 is configured to provide torque resistance in relation to the rotation of the drive shaft 40. The torque arm 220 is configured to connect to the track support beam 10 to substantially prevent rotation of the transmission 200 about the central axis Z.

[0117] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the transmission 200 includes a gear assembly 260. The gear assembly 260 can be any suitable gear assembly for transmitting torque from the motor assembly 100 to the drive wheel member DW for driving the track assembly and thus driving a tracked vehicle having the track assembly. According to one aspect of this disclosure, the gear assembly 260 includes a planetary gear assembly. According to one aspect of this disclosure, the motor shaft 140 is configured to be operatively connected to the gear assembly 260 of the transmission 200 for transmitting torque from the motor shaft 140 to the drive shaft 40. According to one aspect of this disclosure, the gear assembly 260 of the transmission 200 is configured to be operatively connected to the drive shaft for transmitting torque from the gear assembly 260 to the drive shaft 40.

[0118] The transmission device 200 includes a bearing configuration B260 arranged to provide a bearing for the gear assembly 260. According to one aspect of this disclosure, the bearing configuration B260 is a needle roller bearing assembly.

[0119] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the gear assembly 260 may include a first planetary gear configuration 262. This first planetary gear configuration 262 may include high / low planetary gear members configured to provide a high gear position associated with the transmission of torque from the motor assembly 100. According to another aspect of this disclosure, the gear assembly 260 may include a second planetary gear configuration 264. This second planetary gear configuration 264 may include a set of planetary gears for providing gear changes of the drive wheel member associated with the transmission of torque from the first planetary gear configuration 262 to the drive wheel member DW. The first planetary gear configuration 262 is configured to provide a high gear position associated with the transmission of torque to the second planetary gear configuration 264, without providing speed changes from the motor 100, and a low gear position configured to reduce the speed of the motor associated with the transmission of torque to the second planetary gear configuration 264.

[0120] See Figure 6The transmission device 200 includes a bearing configuration B260 arranged to provide bearings for the gear assembly 260. A first planetary gear configuration 262 includes a first bearing configuration B262. According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the first bearing configuration B262 is a needle roller bearing assembly. A second planetary gear configuration 262 includes a second bearing configuration B264. According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the second bearing configuration B264 is a needle roller bearing assembly.

[0121] The transmission device 200 is configured to transmit the torque from the motor device 100 to the drive wheel member DW via the drive shaft 40 by means of the gear device 260.

[0122] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the drive shaft 40 is configured to extend from the transmission device through the inner drive wheel DW2, through the through hole H of the track support beam 10 and connected to the bearing configuration 20, through the outer drive wheel DW1, and also through the main part of the braking device 300.

[0123] The motor assembly 100 and the transmission device 200 are included in the drive unit M. Therefore, the drive device D includes the drive unit M containing the motor assembly 100 and the transmission device 200. Thus, the motor assembly 100 and the transmission device 200 of the drive device D provide the drive unit M. The drive unit M includes a housing configuration M10. The housing configuration M10 includes the motor housing 110 and the transmission device housing 210.

[0124] The drive unit M is configured to be pivotally mounted to a portion of the drive shaft 40 via a bearing journal, protruding from the inner side 10b of the track support beam 10, to allow rotation of the drive shaft 40 relative to the housing configuration M10 of the drive unit M. A bearing configuration B200 is configured to be arranged around the portion of the drive shaft 40 that protrudes from the inner side 10b of the track support beam 10.

[0125] The drive unit D includes a bearing configuration B200 arranged in the housing configuration of the drive unit M and connected here to the transmission housing 210 for providing a bearing for the drive unit M. According to one aspect of this disclosure, the bearing configuration B200 is a tapered roller bearing assembly.

[0126] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the drive shaft 40 is configured to be connected to the bearing configuration B200 by means of a spline connection, such that the drive shaft 40 can rotate relative to the housing configuration, i.e., the transmission housing 210.

[0127] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the drive unit D includes a central support rod 30 coaxially arranged within the drive unit D. The central support rod 30 is configured to extend in an axial direction, i.e., in the direction of the axis Z. The central support rod 30 is configured to extend laterally relative to the longitudinal extension of the track support beam 10.

[0128] The central support rod 30 is configured to support and connect the transmission device 200 and the braking device 300. The central support rod 30 is configured to support and connect the drive unit M and the braking device 300.

[0129] The central support rod 30 is configured to be coaxial with the central axis Z of the drive wheel component DW.

[0130] The central support rod 30 is configured to extend through the drive shaft 40 to provide the connection between the transmission 200 and the braking device 300. The central support rod 30 is configured to extend through the drive shaft 40 to provide the connection between the drive unit M and the braking device 300. The central support rod 30 is configured to be axially movable within the drive shaft 40 to provide an axial force for connecting the transmission 200 and the braking device 300. The central support rod 30 is configured to be axially movable within the drive shaft 40 to provide an axial force for connecting the drive unit M and the braking device 300.

[0131] The drive shaft 40 has a first end portion 42 and an opposite second end portion 44. The first end portion 42 is disposed at the end of the drive shaft 40 that protrudes axially from the through hole H of the track support beam 10 and connects to the outer side portion 10a of the track support beam 10. The second end portion 44 is disposed at the end of the drive shaft 40 that protrudes axially from the through hole H of the track support beam 10 and connects to the inner side portion 10b of the track support beam 10.

[0132] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the central support rod 30 has a first end portion 32 configured to protrude from a first end portion 42 of the drive shaft 40 and an opposite second end portion 34 configured to protrude from a second end portion 44 of the drive shaft 40.

[0133] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the central support rod 30 is configured to extend through the drive shaft 40 to provide the connection between the transmission 200 and the braking device 300 by connecting the second end portion 34 to the transmission 200.

[0134] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the second end portion 34 of the central support rod 30 is configured to provide the connection between the transmission device 200 and the braking device 300 by connecting the second end portion 34 to the transmission device 200.

[0135] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the second end portion 34 of the central support rod 30 is configured to provide the connection between the transmission 200 and the braking device 300 by connecting the second end portion 34 to a portion 264P of the gear carrier of the transmission 200 configured to transmit the torque to the drive shaft 40.

[0136] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the second end portion 34 of the central support rod 30 is configured to be connected to the portion 264P of the gear carrier of the transmission device 200, such that the second end portion 34 rotates at the same rotational speed as the portion 264P of the gear carrier, and thus rotates together with the drive shaft 40.

[0137] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the second end portion 34 of the central support rod 30 includes or is constituted by a threaded engagement member configured to screw into a threaded opening 264T of the portion 264P of the gear carrier for providing the connection of the central support rod 30 to the transmission 200. According to one aspect of this disclosure, during the assembly of the central support rod 30 to provide the connection of the transmission 200 and thus the drive unit M, the second end portion 34 of the central support rod 30 is configured to screw into the threaded opening 264T by means of its threaded engagement member. Therefore, according to one aspect of this disclosure, the second end portion 34 of the central support rod 30 is configured to be fastened to the portion 264P of the gear carrier by means of a threaded engagement configuration. Figure 6 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the second end portion 34 of the central support rod 30 includes or is constituted by a threaded engagement member configured to screw into a threaded opening 264T of the portion 264P of the gear carrier to provide the connection. Alternatively, the second end portion of the central support rod may be a threaded opening, and the portion of the gear carrier may have a protrusion in the shape of a threaded engagement member to provide a connection with the central support rod.

[0138] According to one aspect of this disclosure, there is no torque transmission between the central support rod 30 and the drive shaft 40.

[0139] Therefore, the drive shaft 40 has a tubular configuration. Thus, the drive shaft 40 has a tubular shape, thereby providing a through-hole for the central support rod 30. Therefore, the drive shaft 40 has a tubular configuration configured to receive the central support rod 30. The drive shaft 40 has a hollow configuration for allowing the central support rod 30 to be introduced into the drive shaft 40.

[0140] The braking device 300 further includes a hollow brake shaft 340. The hollow brake shaft 340 is arranged coaxially with respect to the central axis Z. The hollow brake shaft 340 is configured to be arranged about the drive shaft 40 such that the brake shaft 340 rotates by means of the drive shaft 40. According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the hollow brake shaft 340 is configured to be connected to the drive shaft 40 by means of a splined connector around the drive shaft, such that the brake shaft 340 rotates by rotation of the drive shaft 40.

[0141] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a fastening device F is provided to facilitate the assembly and disassembly of the drive device D, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 7 and Figure 8 , Figure 8 It shows Figure 7 The end portion P1 of the cross-section of the braking device 300.

[0142] The fastening device F is configured to be connected to the outer end portion of the braking device 300 to facilitate the assembly and disassembly of the drive device D associated with the braking device 300.

[0143] The fastening device F is configured to axially hold the central support rod 30 connected to the drive shaft 40, so as to connect the transmission device 200 and the braking device 300. The fastening device F is configured to axially hold the central support rod 30 connected to the drive shaft 40, so as to connect the drive unit M and the braking device 300.

[0144] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the fastening device F includes a first fastening member F1 configured to provide attachment of the central support rod 30 when the central support rod 30 is arranged to pass through the drive shaft 40. The central support rod 30 is configured to be removably attached by means of the first fastening member F1. According to one aspect of this disclosure, the first fastening member F1 is a coupling member, such as a bolted coupling member, configured to attach to an end portion 32 of the central support rod 30. The end portion 32 of the central support rod 30 is configured to protrude from the end portion 42 of the hollow drive shaft 40.

[0145] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the central support rod 30 is configured to be removably attached by means of the first fastening member F1. According to another aspect of this disclosure, the first fastening member F1 is arranged to connect to the outer end portion of the braking device 300 to provide connection to the drive device D and to facilitate the assembly of the drive device D to the track support beam 10 and the removal of the drive device D from the track support beam 10.

[0146] According to one aspect of this disclosure, when the central support rod 30 is connected to the transmission device, the first fastening member F1 provides tension associated with the central support rod 30, thereby facilitating the connection of the drive device D, i.e., the drive unit M, and the braking device 300.

[0147] According to one aspect of this disclosure, when the second end portion 34 of the central support rod 30 is configured to provide connection with the transmission device by means of a threaded engagement device that provides a threaded connection between the portion 264P of the gear device 260 and the second end portion 34 of the central support rod 30, the first fastening member F1 provides tension associated with the central support rod 30 such that the drive device D including the bearing configuration 20 is pulled together for easy and efficient connection.

[0148] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the fastening device F includes a second fastening member F2 configured to be arranged around the drive shaft 40 to provide a locking function for preventing axial movement of the braking device 300. The second fastening member F2 is configured to be arranged around the drive shaft 40 at the end portion of a portion 40a of the drive shaft that projects outwardly from the outer side 10a of the track support beam 10 in the axial direction.

[0149] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the second fastening member F2 is configured to be arranged around the drive shaft 40 connected to the brake shaft 340 to provide a locking function for preventing axial movement of the brake shaft 340.

[0150] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the fastening device F includes a third fastening member F3 configured to be arranged around the drive shaft 40 connected to the second fastening member F2. According to another aspect of this disclosure, the third fastening member F3 is configured to be arranged around the drive shaft 40 between the end portion of the brake shaft 340 and the second fastening member F2.

[0151] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the second fastening member F2 is annular in shape and includes a set of locking recesses distributed around its circumference. According to another aspect of this disclosure, the third fastening member F3 is annular in shape and includes a set of protruding and flexible locking elements distributed around its circumference, wherein the locking elements of the set of locking elements are configured to fit into the recesses of the second fastening member F2 when bent toward the second fastening member F2.

[0152] The braking device 300 includes a brake device housing 310 for braking components associated with the braking device 300. The braking device 300 includes the brake device housing 310 which is configured to provide a sealing element for the braking components of the braking device 300.

[0153] like Figure 8 As schematically illustrated, the brake device housing 310 has a first end portion 316 configured to face the track support beam 10 and a second end portion 318 configured to face away from the track support beam 10.

[0154] The second end portion 318 has a central opening O for access to the fastening device F, so as to facilitate the assembly of the braking device 300 to the track assembly and the removal of the braking device 300 from the track assembly.

[0155] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the braking device 300 includes a closing element 330 for closing the opening O. The closing element 330 is operable between an open position that facilitates access to the fastening device F and a closed position that provides the sealing element.

[0156] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a sealing member S318 is configured to connect to the end portion 318 at the opening O to provide a seal to the closing element 330 in the closed position. According to one aspect of this disclosure, the sealing member S318 is an O-ring member.

[0157] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a sealing member is arranged connected to the track support beam 10, i.e., the outer side 10a of the track support beam 10, the sealing member being configured to provide a seal to the brake shaft 340.

[0158] The braking device 300 is configured to be mounted on a bearing journal to an external portion 40a that protrudes axially from the outer side 10a of the track support beam 10 and is connected to the drive shaft 40. The braking device housing 310 is configured to be mounted on the braking shaft 340 on a bearing journal, such that when the braking device 300 is connected to the drive shaft 40, it provides a bearing-driven journal mount to the external portion 40a of the drive shaft 40.

[0159] The braking device 300 includes a bearing configuration B300 connected to the braking shaft 340 for providing journal mounting via a bearing in the braking device housing 310. The bearing configuration B300 is arranged within the braking device housing 310 of the braking device 300.

[0160] The bearing configuration B300 includes a first bearing member B301 and a second bearing member B302, the second bearing member B302 being arranged at a certain axial distance from the first bearing member B301. One of the first bearing member B301 and the second bearing member B302 is provided with a flange configuration for holding the brake device housing 310 in the axial direction, and the other of the first bearing member B301 and the second bearing member B302 is configured to allow the housing 310 to move axially relative to the brake shaft 340.

[0161] exist Figure 8 In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in the schematic diagram, the first bearing member B301 is configured to allow the housing 310 to move axially relative to the brake shaft 340. Figure 8 In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in the schematic diagram, the second bearing member B302 is provided with a flange configuration for holding the brake device housing 310 in the axial direction.

[0162] The first bearing member B301 is arranged to connect to a first support portion 312 of the brake device housing 310. The second bearing member B302 is arranged to connect to a second support portion 314 of the brake device housing 310, which is axially opposite to the first support portion 312. According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the first bearing member B301 is a cylindrical roller bearing member. According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the second bearing member B302 is a cylindrical roller bearing member.

[0163] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the braking device 300 includes a torque arm 320 configured to connect to the track support beam 10 to substantially prevent rotation of the braking device 300 about the central axis Z. According to another aspect of this disclosure, the torque arm 320 is configured to be attached to or constitute a part of the braking device housing 310. The torque arm 320 is configured to connect to the track support beam 10 to substantially prevent rotation of the braking device housing 310 about the central axis Z.

[0164] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the torque arm 320 is configured to provide torque resistance in relation to braking action of the braking device 300 on the drive shaft 40.

[0165] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the torque arm 320 is configured to be movably connected to the track support beam 10 such that the movement of the torque arm 320 and therefore the braking device 300 relative to the track support beam 10 is a controlled movement in the longitudinal direction of the annular track E.

[0166] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the movable connection between the torque arm 320 and the track support beam 10 is provided by means of a pin member 10P and an elliptical recess, the pin member 10P being arranged to connect to one of the track support beam 10 and the torque arm 320, and the elliptical recess being arranged to connect to the other of the track support beam 10 and the torque arm 320. According to one aspect of this disclosure, the pin member 10P is connected to the elliptical recess to facilitate movement of the torque arm 320 and therefore the braking device 300 relative to the track support beam 10 in the longitudinal direction of the annular track E and therefore in the longitudinal direction of the track support beam 10. According to one aspect of this disclosure, the elliptical recess is configured to facilitate controlled movement of the torque arm 320 relative to the track support beam 10 in the longitudinal direction of the track support beam 10. According to one aspect of this disclosure, the elliptical recess is configured to facilitate the guiding movement of the pin member 10P and thus the torque arm 320 relative to the track support beam 10 in the longitudinal direction of the track support beam 10.

[0167] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the pin member 10P is configured to be fixedly attached to the track support beam 10 at one end and connected to the elliptical recess at the opposite end, thereby facilitating movement of the torque arm 320 and thus the braking device 300 relative to the track support beam 10 in the longitudinal direction of the annular track E, and impeding, i.e. substantially preventing, movement in the vertical direction.

[0168] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the braking device 300 includes Figure 7The diagram shows a set of friction elements 350 arranged within the brake device housing 310. According to one aspect of the disclosure, the set of friction elements 350 is configured to surround the hollow brake shaft 340 arranged about the drive shaft 40. According to another aspect of the disclosure, the brake device 300 further includes a service brake piston assembly 360 arranged to connect to the set of friction elements 350 and configured to act on the set of friction elements 350 based on the braking action of the tracked vehicle for a service braking function. According to another aspect of the disclosure, the brake device 300 further includes a parking brake piston assembly 370 arranged to connect to the set of friction elements 350 and to a spring assembly 380, wherein the spring assembly is configured to act on the parking brake piston assembly 370, which in turn acts on the friction elements 350 based on the parking braking action of the tracked vehicle for a parking braking function.

[0169] For purposes of illustration and description, the foregoing description of preferred embodiments of the invention has been provided. The foregoing description is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed. Many modifications and variations will obviously be apparent to those skilled in the art. These embodiments were chosen and described to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical application, thereby enabling others skilled in the art to understand the various embodiments of the invention and the various modifications suitable for the particular intended use.

Claims

1. A track assembly (T1, T2) for a tracked vehicle (V), the track assembly being configured to connect to the vehicle body (B), the track assembly comprising: A track support beam (10) is configured to support a plurality of road wheels (RW), drive wheel components (DW), and a drive device (D) for operating the drive wheel components (DW), the drive wheel components (DW) being configured to rotate about a central axis (Z); an annular track (E) is arranged around the road wheels (RW) and the drive wheel components (DW), the drive device (D) including a drive unit (M) for driving the drive wheel components (DW) and a braking device (300) for providing braking function to the drive wheel components (DW) of the track assembly, wherein the track support beam (10) has a configuration of The drive unit (D) includes an outer side (10a) facing away from the vehicle body (B) when the track assembly is connected to the vehicle body (B) and an opposite inner side (10b) facing the vehicle body when the track assembly is connected to the vehicle body (B). The drive unit (D) includes a drive shaft (40) configured to be coaxially arranged relative to the central axis (Z) of the drive wheel member (DW) for rotating the drive wheel member (DW). The brake unit (300) is configured to be mounted with a bearing journal to an outer portion (40a) of the drive shaft (40) protruding from the outer side (10a) of the track support beam (10). The drive device (D) includes a central support rod (30) configured to coaxially coincide with the central axis (Z) of the drive wheel component (DW), and the central support rod is configured to supportively connect the braking device (300) and the drive unit (M). Furthermore, the central support rod (30) is configured to extend through the drive shaft (40) to provide a coaxial connection between the drive unit (M) and the braking device (300).

2. The track assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The drive shaft (40) is configured to be mounted in the track support beam (10) with bearing journals to allow rotation of the drive wheel assembly (DW) relative to the track support beam (10), wherein the drive shaft (40) is configured to extend through the track support beam (10) to the outer side, thereby providing the outer portion (40a) of the drive shaft (40).

3. The track assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The braking device (300) includes a torque arm (320) configured to be connected to the track support beam (10) to substantially prevent the braking device (300) from rotating about the central axis (Z).

4. The track assembly according to claim 3, wherein, The torque arm (320) is configured to provide torque resistance associated with braking action and the drive shaft (40) by means of the braking device (300).

5. The track assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The drive shaft (40) has an inner portion (40b) protruding from the inner side (10b) of the track support beam (10) into the transmission device (200) of the drive unit (M), wherein the central support rod (30) extending through the drive shaft (40) is configured to be connected to the transmission device (200).

6. The track assembly according to claim 1 or 2 further includes a fastening device (F) configured to be arranged to connect to an outer end portion of the braking device (300) to facilitate the assembly and disassembly of the drive device (D) associated with the braking device (300).

7. The track assembly according to claim 6, wherein, The fastening device (F) includes a first fastening member (F1) configured to provide attachment to the central support rod (30) when the central support rod (30) is arranged to pass through the drive shaft (40), the central support rod (30) being configured to be removably attached by means of the first fastening member (F1).

8. The track assembly according to claim 6, wherein, The fastening device (F) includes a second fastening member (F2) configured to be arranged around the drive shaft (40) to provide a locking function for preventing axial movement of the braking device (300).

9. The track assembly according to claim 6, wherein, The braking device (300) includes a braking device housing (310) configured to provide a sealing member for the braking component of the braking device (300), the braking device housing (310) having a first end portion (316) configured to face the track support beam (10) and a second end portion (318) configured to face away from the track support beam (10), the second end portion (318) having a central opening (O) for access to the fastening device (F) to facilitate the assembly of the braking device (300) to the track assembly and the removal of the braking device (300) from the track assembly.

10. The track assembly according to claim 9, wherein, The braking device (300) includes a closing element (330) for closing the central opening (O), the closing element (330) being operable between an open position that facilitates access to the fastening device (F) and a closed position that provides the enclosure.

11. The track assembly according to claim 9, wherein the braking device (300) further comprises a hollow brake shaft (340), the brake shaft (340) being configured to be arranged about the drive shaft (40) such that the brake shaft (340) rotates by means of the drive shaft (40), wherein, The brake housing (310) is configured to be mounted to the brake shaft (340) with a bearing journal, such that when the brake (300) is connected to the drive shaft (40), a bearing journal mounting is provided for the external portion (40a) of the drive shaft (40).

12. The track assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The braking device (300) is configured to be arranged within the periphery of the annular track (E) in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal and lateral directions of the annular track (E).

13. The track assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The drive unit (D) is configured to be coaxial with the central axis (Z) of the drive wheel member (DW).

14. The track assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The drive wheel assembly (DW) includes an outer drive wheel (DW1) arranged to be connected to the outer side (10a) of the track support beam (10) and an inner drive wheel (DW2) arranged to be connected to the inner side (10b) of the track support beam (10), wherein a journal bearing of the drive shaft (40) is centrally located in the track support beam (10) between the outer drive wheel (DW1) and the inner drive wheel (DW2).

15. A tracked vehicle (V) comprising at least one track assembly (T1, T2) according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

16. The tracked vehicle (V) according to claim 15, wherein, The tracked vehicle includes a left track assembly (T1), a right track assembly (T2), and a vehicle body (B), wherein the track assemblies (T1, T2) are suspended to the vehicle body by means of suspension devices (S1, S2).

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