Reconfigurable frame assembly and track system having same

Abstract

A reconfigurable frame assembly for a track system is disclosed. The reconfigurable frame assembly includes a main frame member having a main interface, an extension frame member having an extension interface, and an extremity frame member having an extremity interface. The main interface, the extension interface and the extremity interface are selectively interconnectable for forming the reconfigurable frame assembly in a first configuration and a second configuration, the second configuration being different from the first configuration. A track system having the reconfigurable frame assembly is also disclosed.

Description

RECONFIGURABLE FRAME ASSEMBLY ANDTRACK SYSTEM HAVING SAMECROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] The present application claims priority to United States Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 595,560, filed November 2, 2023 entitled “ Re configurable Frame Assembly and Track System Having Same", which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present application generally relates to reconfigurable frame assemblies, and track systems comprising reconfigurable frame assemblies.BACKGROUND

[0003] With the emergence of new technologies, there are more new robots and new vehicles that are entering the market. These robots and vehicles require propulsion systems. Conventional propulsion systems can include wheels or track systems.

[0004] While track systems can provide various benefits over wheels, conventional track systems purchased “off-the shelf can be complicated to install and / or to retro-fit onto new robots and vehicles. Conversely, manufacturing custom track systems can be timeconsuming and / or expensive.

[0005] These problems can be exacerbated for new technologies. In some cases, there can be various design cycles, in which constraints can rapidly and drastically change. These changes in constraints may require modification of the track system from one cycle to another, which can be expensive and time-consuming.

[0006] Therefore, there is a desire for a track system that could mitigate the above- mentioned issues.SUMMARY

[0007] It is an object of the present technology to ameliorate at least some of the inconveniences present in the prior art.

[0008] According to one aspect of the present technology, there is provided a reconfigurable frame assembly for a track system. The reconfigurable frame assembly includes a main frame member, an extension frame member, and an extremity frame member. The main frame member has a main interface, the extension frame member has an extension interface, and the extremity frame member has an extremity interface. The main interface, the extension interface and the extremity interface are selectively interconnectable for forming the reconfigurable frame assembly in a first configuration and a second configuration, the second configuration being different from the first configuration.

[0009] In some embodiments, in the first configuration, the reconfigurable frame assembly has a first shape; and in the second configuration, the reconfigurable frame assembly has a second shape different from the first shape.

[0010] In some embodiments, the first and second shapes are one of a linear shape, a triangular shape and a trapezoidal shape.

[0011] In some embodiments, with the extremity interface being connected to the main interface, the extremity frame member is configured to operationally connect to a drive wheel assembly.

[0012] In some embodiments, the extremity frame member is configured to be connected to a wheel assembly.

[0013] In some embodiments, the wheel assembly is one of an idler wheel assembly and a support wheel assembly.

[0014] In some embodiments, the extremity frame member is configured to be selectively connected to the wheel assembly.

[0015] In some embodiments, in the first configuration, the extension interface and the extremity interface are connected to the main interface; and in the second configuration, the extension interface is connected to the main interface, and the extremity interface is connected to the extension interface.

[0016] In some embodiments, the main interface includes a first main interface portion and a second main interface portion. With the extension interface being connected to the first main interface portion, the extension frame member is disposed in a first position relative to the main frame member, and with the extension interface being connected to the second main interface portion, the extension frame member is disposed in a second position relative to the main frame member.

[0017] In some embodiments, one of the first and second main interface portions is disposed at a front end of the main frame member, and an other one of the first and second main interface portions is disposed at a rear end of the main frame member.

[0018] In some embodiments, the reconfigurable frame assembly is further configurable in a third configuration, in which the extension interface is connected to the first main interface portion, and the extremity interface is connected to the second main interface portion.

[0019] In some embodiments, the extremity frame member further includes one of a tensioner, an anti-rotation assembly, an alignment assembly, and a shaft.

[0020] In some embodiments, a wheel assembly is connected to at least one of the main frame member and the extension frame member.

[0021] In some embodiments, the wheel assembly is selectively connected to the at least one of the main frame member and the extension frame member.

[0022] In some embodiments, the main interface, the extension interface and the extremity interface are configured to be connected to one another by fasteners.

[0023] In some embodiments, the main interface, the extension interface and the extremity interface are configured to be mechanically interlocked with one another.

[0024] In some embodiments, the main interface, the extension interface and the extremity interface are configured to be mechanically interlocked by at least one of a male and female arrangement, a key and keyway arrangement, a dovetail arrangement and a dowel or shear pin and hole arrangement.

[0025] In some embodiments, at least some of the main interface, extension interface and extremity interface are configured to provide one of an “S-shaped joint”, an “ I .-shaped joint', a “Clevis joint', a “Sandwich joint', a “Z-offset joint'., or a “Y-offset joint' .

[0026] In some embodiments, the extension frame member is a first extension frame member, and the extension interface is a first extension interface, the extremity frame member is a first extremity frame member, and the extremity interface is a first extension interface. The reconfigurable frame member further includes a second extension frame member having a second extension interface, and a second extremity frame member having a second extremity interface. The first and second main interfaces, the first and second extension interfaces and the first and second extremity interface are selectively interconnectable for forming the reconfigurable frame assembly in at least one other configuration.

[0027] According to another aspect of the present technology, there is provided a track system including the reconfigurable frame assembly of the above aspect or of the above aspect and one or more of the above embodiments. The track system also includes a drive wheel assembly operatively connected to the reconfigurable frame assembly, at least one of an idler wheel assembly and a support wheel assembly connected to the reconfigurable frame assembly, and an endless track surrounding the reconfigurable frame assembly, the drive wheel assembly, and the at least one of an idler wheel assembly and a support wheel assembly.

[0028] In the context of the present specification, unless expressly provided otherwise, the words “firsf, “ second', “third', etc. have been used as adjectives only for the purpose of allowing for distinction between the nouns that they modify from oneanother, and not for the purpose of describing any particular relationship between those nouns.

[0029] It must be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular form “a”, “a / / ” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0030] As used herein, the term “about” in the context of a given value or range refers to a value or range that is within 20%, preferably within 10%, and more preferably within 5% of the given value or range.

[0031] As used herein, the term “and / or” is to be taken as specific disclosure of each of the two specified features or components with or without the other. For example, “A and / or B” is to be taken as specific disclosure of each of (i) A, (ii) B and (iii) A and B, just as if each is set out individually herein.

[0032] For purposes of the present application, terms related to spatial orientation when referring to a track system and components in relation thereto, such as “vertical”, “horizontal” , “forwardly” , “rearwardly” , “left” , “right”, “above” and “below”, are, with respect to the track system, as they would be understood by a driver of a vehicle to which the track system is connected, in which the driver is sitting on the vehicle in an upright driving position, with the vehicle steered straight-ahead and being at rest on flat, level ground.

[0033] The present disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including” , “comprising” , or “having”, “containing, “involving” and variations thereof herein, is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter as well as, optionally, additional items. In the following description, the same numerical references refer to similar elements.

[0034] Implementations of the present technology each have at least one of the above-mentioned object and / or aspects, but do not necessarily have all of them. It should be understood that some aspects of the present technology that have resulted from attempting to attain the above-mentioned object may not satisfy this object and / or may satisfy other objects not specifically recited herein.

[0035] Additional and / or alternative features, aspects, and advantages of implementations of the present technology will become apparent from the following description, the accompanying drawings, and the appended claims.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0036] For a better understanding of the present technology, as well as other aspects and further features thereof, reference is made to the following description which is to be used in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, where:

[0037] Figure 1A is a perspective view of a small robot having track systems according to embodiments of the present technology;

[0038] Figure IB is a perspective view of an intermediate robot having track systems according to embodiments of the present technology;

[0039] Figure 1C is a perspective view of a large robot having track systems according to embodiments of the present technology;

[0040] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a track system according to an embodiment of the present technology;

[0041] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of the track system of Figure 2, with an endless track being omitted;

[0042] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of a frame assembly of the track system of Figure 2;

[0043] Figure 5 A is the track system of Figure 2, with the frame assembly being in a first configuration, and with the endless track being omitted;

[0044] Figure 5B is the track system of Figure 2, with the frame assembly being in a second configuration, and with the endless track being omitted;

[0045] Figure 5C is the track system of Figure 2, with the frame assembly being in a third configuration, and with the endless track being omitted;

[0046] Figure 5D is the track system of Figure 2, with the frame assembly being in a fourth configuration, and with the endless track being omitted;

[0047] Figure 6A is a schematic top plan view of a connection of interfaces of the frame assembly of Figure 4 according to an embodiment of the present technology;

[0048] Figure 6B is a schematic top plan view of a connection of interfaces of the frame assembly of Figure 4 according to an other embodiment of the present technology;

[0049] Figure 6C is a schematic top plan view of a connection of interfaces of the frame assembly of Figure 4 according to an other embodiment of the present technology;

[0050] Figure 6D is a schematic top plan view of a connection of interfaces of the frame assembly of Figure 4 according to an other embodiment of the present technology;

[0051] Figure 6E is a schematic side elevation view of a connection of interfaces of the frame assembly of Figure 4 according to an other embodiment of the present technology;

[0052] Figure 7A is a side elevation view of a track system according to an alternative embodiment of the present technology, with a wheel connecting assembly being in a first orientation;

[0053] Figure 7B is a side elevation view of the track system of Figure 7A, with the wheel connecting assembly being in a second orientation;

[0054] Figure 8A is a side elevation view of a track system according to an alternative embodiment of the present technology, a frame assembly of the track system being in a first configuration;

[0055] Figure 8B is a side elevation view of the track system of Figure 8A, the frame assembly being in a second configuration;

[0056] Figure 8C is a side elevation view of the track system of Figure 8A, the frame assembly being in a third configuration;

[0057] Figure 8D is a side elevation view of the track system of Figure 8A, the frame assembly being in a fourth configuration; and

[0058] Figure 8E is a side elevation view of the track system of Figure 8A, the frame assembly being in a fifth configuration.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0059] The present technology relates to a reconfigurable frame assembly 100 for a track system 40, where the reconfigurable frame assembly 100 can be used with a variety of vehicles 30 varying in size and weight. With the emergence of new technologies, different types of vehicles are entering the market. In some embodiments, the vehicles 30 are small vehicles that can weigh between about 0 kg to 500 kg (example shown in Figure 1 A). In other embodiments, the vehicles 30 are intermediate sized vehicles that can weigh between about 250 kg and about 3000 kg (example shown in Figure IB). In yet other embodiments, the vehicles 30 can be heavy vehicles that can more than about 3000 kg (example shown in Figure 1C). It is understood that the overall weight of the vehicles 30 can vary. Additionally, the weight of a given one of the vehicles 30 can vary during use by adding a working load (e.g., harvesting attachment to a tractor). These vehicles require different types of track systems suited for their respective needs.

[0060] Examples of vehicles are robotics vehicles, agricultural vehicles, industrial vehicles, military vehicles, exploratory vehicles, etc. In some cases, these vehicles can be configured to be autonomous or un-manned. The present technology could also be usedwith manned vehicles. In some embodiments, the vehicle may be an agricultural vehicle such as, without being limited to, a seeder, a planter, a draper, a mower, a harvester, a combine or a tractor. In other embodiments, the vehicle may be an industrial vehicle such as, without being limited to, a bulldozer, a skid-steer loader, an excavator or a compact track loader. In yet other embodiments, the vehicle may be a recreational vehicle such, without being limited to, as an all-terrain vehicle, a side-by-side vehicle or an utility -terrain vehicle. It is further contemplated that the present technology could be used with exploratory and military vehicles as well. The present technology could further be used with trailers or other unpowered vehicles.

[0061] With reference to Figures 2 and 3, a track system 40 includes a reconfigurable frame assembly 100, wheel assemblies connected to the reconfigurable frame assembly 100 and an endless track 70 surrounding the reconfigurable frame assembly 100 and the wheel assemblies. The wheel assemblies include a drive wheel assembly 50, a leading idler wheel assembly 62, a trailing idler wheel assembly 60 and four support wheel assemblies 64a, 64b, 64c, 64d. As will be described in greater detail below, the number of wheel assemblies could vary from one embodiment of the track system 40 to another, as well as from one configuration of the reconfigurable frame assembly 100 to another. The reconfigurable frame assembly 100, which is reconfigurable in two or more configurations, will be described in greater detail below. As will also be described below, the number of members in the reconfigurable frame assembly 100 may vary from one configuration to another.

[0062] The drive wheel assembly 50 is operatively connectable to a driving axle (not illustrated in accompanying Figures) of a vehicle. It is contemplated that in some embodiments, the drive wheel assembly 50 could be connected to a non-driving axle. When the drive wheel assembly 50 is connected to the driving axle, the driving axle is configured to drive the drive wheel assembly 50 such that the drive wheel assembly 50 rotates about a drive axis 52 (Figure 3). The drive wheel assembly 50 includes a drive wheel 51 connected to a hub 58. The drive wheel 51 has engaging members 54 (i.e., teeth) disposed on a circumference thereof. In the illustrated embodiment, the engaging members 54 extend in the radial direction. It is contemplated that in other embodiments, the engagingmembers 54 could extend in the lateral direction. The drive wheel 51 defines a plurality of recesses 55, each one of the recesses 55 being disposed between two engaging members 54. The engaging members 54 and the recesses 55 are adapted to engage with lugs 76 provided on an inner surface 72 of the endless track 70. It is contemplated that in other embodiments, the configuration of the drive wheel assembly 50 could differ without departing from the scope of the present technology.

[0063] The leading idler wheel assembly 62 is rotationally connected to a leading end of the reconfigurable frame assembly 100, the trailing idler wheel assembly 60 is rotationally connected to a trailing end of the reconfigurable frame assembly 100, and the four support wheel assemblies 64a, 64b, 64c, 64d are disposed longitudinally between the leading and trailing idler wheel assemblies 62, 60. Each one of the leading and trailing idler wheel assemblies 62, 60, and the support wheel assemblies 64a, 64b, 64c, 64d includes two laterally spaced wheels connected to a shaft, which is at least indirectly connected to the reconfigurable frame assembly 100. In some embodiments, the two laterally spaced wheels are at least indirectly rotationally connected to the shaft. In other embodiments, the shaft is at least indirectly rotationally connected to the reconfigurable frame assembly 100. The connection between the leading and trailing idler wheel assemblies 62, 60, and support wheel assemblies 64a, 64b, 64c, 64d to the reconfigurable frame assembly 100 will be described in greater detail below. It will be noted that while all four support wheel assemblies 64a, 64b, 64c, 64d are similar in the illustrated embodiments, in other embodiments, one or more of the four support wheel assemblies 64a, 64b, 64c, 64d could vary from one another. For example, in some embodiments, the support wheel assembly 64a could have a larger diameter than the support wheel assemblies 64b, 64c, 64d.

[0064] The endless track 70 has the inner surface 72 and an outer surface 74. The inner surface 72 of endless track 70 has a set of longitudinally spaced lugs 76. In some embodiments, there could be two or more laterally spaced sets of longitudinally spaced lugs 76. The lugs 76 are adapted to engage with the engaging members 54 of the drive wheel assembly 50. The outer surface 74 of the endless track 70 has a tread (not shown) defined thereon. It is contemplated that the tread could vary from one embodiment to another. In some embodiments, the tread could depend on the type of vehicle on which thetrack system 40 is to be used and / or the type of ground surface on which the vehicle is destined to travel. In the present embodiment, the endless track 70 is an endless polymeric track. It is contemplated that in some embodiments, the endless track 70 could be constructed of a wide variety of materials and structures.

[0065] Reference to Figures 2, 3, 4, and 5A, the reconfigurable frame assembly 100, henceforth simply referred to as frame assembly 100, as it is in a first configuration, will be described in greater detail. In the first configuration, the frame assembly 100 includes a main frame member 102, a front extension frame member 105, a rear extension frame member 104, a rear extremity frame member 106, a drive frame member 108, and a wheel connector 109. As will be described in greater detail below, the number of members of the frame assembly 100 can vary from the first configuration to another configuration.

[0066] The main frame member 102, which generally has a trapezoidal shape, includes a longitudinal segment 110 that extends in the longitudinal direction, a front segment 114 that extends generally upwardly, rearwardly, and partially laterally from the longitudinal segment 110, a rear segment 112 that extends generally upwardly, forwardly and partially laterally from the longitudinal segment 110, and a top segment 116 that extends between upper ends of the front and rear segments 114, 112. As will be described below, in other embodiments, the main frame member 102 could define another shape and / or could have more or fewer than the segments 110, 112, 114.

[0067] The main frame member 102 has a main interface 120. The main interface 120 includes a front main interface portion 140 at a front end of the segment 110, a rear main interface portion 130 at a rear end of the segment 110, and a top main interface portion 150 at a center of the top segment 116. It is contemplated that in other embodiments, the number of main interface portions could vary (e.g., in some embodiments, the main interface 120 could only include the front and rear main interface portions 140, 130). Part of the front and rear main interface portions 140, 130 are laterally offset from one another. Specifically, part of the rear main interface portion 130 is positioned laterally inwardly from part of the front main interface portion 140. As will be described below, this lateral offset enables a given frame member, such as the front extension member 105, to have itscenter plane generally aligned with the center plane of the longitudinal segment 110 so that the idler and support wheel assemblies 60, 62, 64a, 64b, 64c, 64d are laterally aligned. It is contemplated that in other embodiments, the front and rear interface portions 140, 130 could be laterally aligned.

[0068] The rear main interface portion 130 defines four lateral apertures 132, and two vertical apertures 134. It is contemplated that in other embodiments, the rear main interface portion 130 could define more or fewer apertures. The four lateral apertures 132, which are through apertures, form a rectangular pattern, though it is contemplated that in other embodiments, the lateral apertures 132 could form another type of pattern, such as a diamond pattern or a trapezoidal pattern. The two vertical apertures 134 extend from a top surface of the longitudinal segment 110 toward the bottom thereof. The rear main interface portion 130 has an abutting side 136 and a non-abutting side 138. The abutting side 136 is generally flat and is configured to abut with an abutting side of another interface portion. In some embodiments, the abutting side 136 may have an interlocking feature thereon for interlocking with a complementary interlocking feature of the abutting side of the other interface portion. The non-abutting side 136 may be configured to engage another component.

[0069] The front main interface portion 140 is similar to the rear main interface portion 130, such that the front main interface portion 140 defines four lateral apertures 142, and two vertical apertures 144. Additionally, the front main interface portion 140 has an abutting side 146 and a non-abutting side 148. As will be described in greater detail below, the similarities between the front and rear main interface portions 140, 130 assist in making the frame assembly 100 modular by increasing number of possible configurations of connectable extension members.

[0070] Between the front and rear main interface portions 140, 130, the longitudinal segment 110 defines two front supporting wheel apertures 118 and two rear supporting wheel apertures 116. It is contemplated that the front and rear supporting wheel apertures 118, 116 could have a different number of apertures. For example, the two front supporting wheel apertures 118 could be three front supporting wheel apertures 118. It isalso contemplated that the longitudinal segment 110 could define only one of the front and rear supporting apertures or that the longitudinal segment 110 could define additional apertures, such as, for example, two intermediate apertures. The front and rear supporting wheel apertures 118, 116 can be used to connect to the support wheel assemblies 64a, 64b, 64c, 64d to the main frame member 102. In some embodiments, the front and rear supporting wheel apertures 118, 116 could be omitted altogether.

[0071] The top main interface portion 150, which is adapted to receive part of the drive extremity member 108 therein, defines a plurality of apertures 154. One of the plurality of apertures 154 is defined in the front segment 114, an other one of the plurality of apertures 154 is defined in the rear segment 114, and four of the plurality of apertures 154 are defined in the top segment 116. It is understood that the number of apertures 154 could vary from one embodiment to another.

[0072] With reference to Figure 4, the front and rear extension members 105, 104 will now be described in greater detail. It will be noted that the front and rear extension members 105, 104 are the same. Accordingly, only the rear extension member 104 will be described herewith, and features of the front extension member 105 have been labelled with the same reference numerals as those of the rear extension member 104. Advantages of the front and rear extension members 105, 104 being the same will be discussed in greater detail below.

[0073] The rear extension member 104 has a rear extension interface 160. The rear extension interface 160 includes a rear extension interface portion 170 and a front extension interface portion 180. Part of the front and rear extension interface portions 180, 170 are laterally offset from one another. It is contemplated that in some embodiments, the front and rear extension interface portions 180, 170 could be laterally aligned with one another.

[0074] The front and rear extension interface portions 180, 170 are similar to the front and rear main interface portions 140, 130. Thus, the rear extension interface portion 170 includes four lateral apertures 172 and two vertical apertures 174. Additionally, the rear extension interface portion 170 has an abutting side 176 and a non-abutting side 178. Likewise, the front extension interface portion 180 includes four lateral apertures 182 andtwo vertical apertures 184. Additionally, the front extension interface portion 180 has an abutting side 186 and a non-abutting side 188. The front and rear extension interface portions 180, 170 differ from one another in that the abutting side 186 is disposed laterally opposite to the abutting side 176.

[0075] Each one of the front and rear extension interface portions 180, 170 is configured to connect to any of the front and rear main interface portions 140, 130. For example, the rear extension interface portion 170 can connect to the rear main interface portion 130 or to the front main interface portion 140. In some embodiments, the front and rear interface portions 180,170 are complementary to the front and rear main interface portions 140, 130. As will be described in greater detail below, there are various advantages to this, notably simplification of manufacturing of the frame assembly 100 and of the extension members and simplification of assembly thereof.

[0076] With continued reference to Figure 4, the rear extremity member 106 will now be described in greater detail. The rear extremity member 106 has an extremity interface 190, and a wheel connecting section 192.

[0077] The wheel connecting section 192 defines an arcuate recess 194 for receiving part of the shaft of the rear idler wheel assembly 60. It is contemplated that in some embodiments, the wheel connecting section 192 could be adapted to elevate the rear idler wheel assembly 60 relative to the support wheel assemblies 64a, 64b, 64c, 64d and / or to the front idler wheel assembly 62. It is also contemplated that in some embodiments, the wheel connecting section 192 could include a tensioner (as shown on wheel connector 109), an anti-rotation member and / or an alignment shaft.

[0078] The extremity interface 190 has a single extremity interface portion 200, as the rear extremity member 106 defines an extremity of the frame assembly 100. The extremity interface portion 200 is similar to the interface portions 130, 140, 170, 180, such that the extremity interface portion 200 defines four lateral apertures 202 and two vertical apertures 204. Additionally, the extremity interface portion 200 includes an abutting side 206 and a non-abutting side 208.

[0079] It will be noted that due to the configuration of the interface portions 130, 140, 170, 180, 200, the extremity interface portion 200 is configured to connect to any one of the interface portions 130, 140, 170, 180. Thus, the front extremity member 106 can be connected to the main frame member 102, to the rear extension member 104 (as illustrated in Figure 4), or to the front extension member 105. Thus, the extremity interface portion 200 can be connected to any one of the main and extension interface portions 130, 140, 170, 180.

[0080] Still with reference to Figure 4, the drive extremity member 108 will now be described in greater detail. The drive extremity member 108 is configured connect to the drive wheel assembly 50. In some instances, the drive extremity member 108 is configured to connect to the hub 58 (shown in Figure 3) on which the drive wheel assembly 50 is configured to be mounted. The drive extremity member 108 further has a drive interface 210 that has a drive interface portion 220. The drive interface portion 210 defines apertures 212 (only one aperture 212 shown in dotted lines in Figure 4), and is configured to connect to the top main interface portion 150.

[0081] The frame assembly 100 further includes the wheel connector 109. The wheel connector 109 has a wheel connector interface 230 that has a wheel connector interface portion 250. The wheel connector interface portion 250, like the interface portions 130, 140, 170, 180, 200, has four lateral apertures 252, an abutting side 256 and a nonabutting side 258. The wheel connector 109, which is configured to connect to the front idler wheel assembly 62, also includes a tensioner 232 that is operable to adjust position of the front idler wheel assembly 62 relative main frame member 102 for adjusting tension in the endless track 70. It is understood that, in this configuration, the wheel connector 109 is an extremity member and defines an extremity of the frame assembly 100.

[0082] The frame assembly 100 also includes reinforcing members 300, 301, 302. It is contemplated that in some embodiments, there could be more or fewer reinforcing members 300, 301, 302. As the reinforcing members 300, 301, 302 are the same, only the reinforcing member 300 will be described in detail herewith. The reinforcing member 300 defines four apertures 304. It is contemplated that in some embodiments, the reinforcingmember 300 could only define two laterally spaced apertures 304. As will be described in greater detail below, the reinforcing member 300 is configured such that when the frame assembly 100 is assembled, each one of the apertures 304 is aligned with a corresponding one of the vertical apertures 134, 144, 174, 184, 204. While the reinforcing members 300, 301, 302 provide reinforcement to the frame assembly 100, they may be omitted in some embodiments. It is understood that, in some embodiments, each one of the apertures 304 of the reinforcing member 301 could be configured to be aligned with a corresponding one of the horizontal apertures 132, 142, 172, 182, 202, 252.

[0083] The frame assembly 100 also includes a shim 350. The shim 350 is configured to connect to the main frame member 102 and to the drive extremity member 108. The shim 350 is for modulating a vertical distance between the drive wheel axis 52 and the main frame member 102 (and thus, modulating a vertical distance between the drive wheel axis 52 and bottoms of the support wheel assemblies 64a, 64b, 64c, 64d). In the illustrated embodiment, a vertical shim is shown, but it is contemplated that in some embodiments, the shim 350 could be configured to connect to, and thus offset, in the lateral, longitudinal or lateral directions, any one of the main frame member 102, the extension members 104, 105, the rear extremity member 106 and / or the wheel connector 109. It is also contemplated that in other embodiments, the shim 350 could be omitted. It is further contemplated that in some embodiments, there could be two or more shims 350 superposed. In some embodiments, the shim 350 could be configured to provide an inclination of the extremity member 108 relative to the main frame member 102. In some case, this relative inclination can provide adjustability of the track system 40 relative to the vehicle, at least one of a roll direction, a pitch direction, and a yaw direction.

[0084] Referring to Figure 3, the support wheel assemblies 64a, 64b, 64c, 64d are at least indirectly connected to the frame assembly 100 by wheel connecting assemblies 260, 261, which will now be described in greater detail. In some embodiments, the wheel connecting assemblies 260, 261 may be considered as being part of the frame assembly 100, e.g. by being integral or connected thereto. As the wheel connecting assemblies 260, 261 are the same, only the wheel connecting assembly 260 will be described in greater detail herewith. It is understood that, in some cases, the wheel connecting assembly 260can differ from the wheel connecting assembly 261. In addition, in some embodiments, one or both of the wheel connecting assemblies 260, 261 could be omitted, such that some of the support wheel assemblies 64a, 64b, 64c, and 64d could thus be directly rotationally connected to frame assembly 100.

[0085] The wheel connecting assembly 260 includes left and right connecting members 270, 271 (the left connecting member 270 being partially hidden by the main frame member 102 in Figure 3) and a carrying member 280. In this configuration, the carrying member 280 is pivotably connected to the frame assembly 100 via the connecting members 270, 271 and configured to provide what is referred to as a tandem assembly, as will be described in further detail below.

[0086] The connecting members 270, 271, which are connectable to the frame assembly 100, are the same. Thus, only the connecting member 271 will be described herewith. The connecting member 271 has an upper portion 272 and a lower portion 274. The upper portion 272 is configured to connect with the front main interface portion 140 such that the upper portion 272 defines four apertures 276 configured to be aligned with the apertures 142. It is to be noted that the upper portion 272 could also be connected to another one of the interface portions due to the similar configuration of the interface portions. For example, the upper portion 272 of the connecting member 270 is configured to connect with the rear extension interface portion 170. It is understood that, in some cases, the connecting members 270, 271 can act and be considered as reinforcing members. The upper portion 272 further defines, at a bottom thereof, an arcuate recess 278. The lower portion 274 also defines, at a top thereof, an arcuate recess 279. The upper and lower portions 272, 274 are configured to connect to one another via fasteners 273. When the upper and lower portions 272, 274 are connected to one another, the arcuate recesses 278, 279 define an opening configured to receive a shaft therethrough (e.g., any one shaft of support wheel assemblies 64a, 64b, 64c, 64d). It is contemplated that in some embodiments, the connecting members 270, 271 could be connected to one another so as to form a single U-shaped member, with parts of the U-shaped member extending on either lateral side of the frame assembly (similar to what is shown in Figure 6B), which would further reinforce the frame assembly 100.

[0087] The carrying member 280, which is connectable to the frame assembly 100 via the connecting members 270, 271, extends in the longitudinal direction, and generally has a concave profile. In some embodiments, the carrying member 280 could define a V- shaped profile. The carrying member 280 defines an opening 282 that is configured to be aligned with the arcuate recesses 278, 279. The carrying member 280 is connected to the connecting members 270, 271 by receiving a shaft through the opening 282 and the arcuate recesses 278, 279. In some embodiments, this connection enables the carrying member 280 to be pivotable about a lateral axis relative to the connecting members 270, 271. As will be described in greater detail below, the carrying member 280, which is configured to carry support wheel assemblies at either longitudinal end thereof, can be connected to the holding members 270, 271 in at least two different orientations (e.g., up, down, left, right orientations). In one orientation, the concave profile is oriented towards the bottom, and in the other orientation, the concave profile is oriented towards the top. In some embodiments, the carrying member 280 could be generally longitudinally asymmetrical relative to the opening 282. In one other orientation, the concave profile is oriented with a front portion of the carrying member 280 being oriented toward the forward direction of the track system 40, and in the other orientation, the front portion of the carrying member 280 is oriented towards the rearward direction of the track system 40. These four different orientations can assist in modulating the distance between the support wheel assemblies and the frame assembly 100. In some embodiments, the carrying member 280 could be generally straight. The concave profile is defined by the relative position of the connection of the carrying member 280 to the frame assembly 100 (e.g. via the opening 282) and the position of the connection of the carrying member 280 to the support wheel assemblies 64a, 64b, 64c, 64d (e.g. via the arcuate portions 289). In other words, when the opening 282 is positioned lower than the arcuate portions 289, the concave profile is said to be oriented towards the top (see Figure 7A). Inversely, when the opening 282 is positioned higher than the arcuate portions 289, the concave profile is said to be oriented towards the bottom (see Figure 7B).

[0088] Referring to Figure 5A with assistance from Figures 3 and 4, when the frame assembly 100 is in the first configuration, the front and rear extension members 105, 104 are connected to the main frame member 102, the rear extremity member 106 is connected to the rear extension member 104, the wheel connector 109 is connected to thefront extension member 105, and the drive extremity member 108 is connected to the main frame member 102. Additionally, the reinforcing member 300 is connected to the rear extension member 104 and to the rear extremity member 106, the reinforcing member 301 is connected to the main frame member 102 and to the rear extension member 104, and the reinforcing member 302 is connected to the main frame member 102 and to the front extension member 105.

[0089] The rear extension member 104 is connected to the main frame member 102 via the main and rear extension interfaces 120, 160. More specifically, the abutting side 136 of the rear main interface portion 130 abuts the abutting side 186 of the front extension interface portion 180, and fasteners 400 (e.g., bolts) are received through the lateral apertures 132, 182. It will be noted that when the rear extension member 104 is connected to the main frame member 102, the abutting side 186 of the rear extension member 104 is laterally aligned with the abutting side 146 of the front main interface portion 140. Additionally, the reinforcing member 301 is positioned such that two of the apertures 304 are aligned with the apertures 134, and two of the apertures 304 are aligned with the apertures 184. Fasteners 411 are received in the apertures 304, 134, 184 to connect the reinforcing member 301 to the main frame member 102 and to the rear extension member 104.

[0090] The rear extremity member 106 is connected to the rear extension member 104 via the rear extension and extremity interfaces 160, 190. More specifically, the abutting side 176 of the rear extension interface portion 170 abuts the abutting side 206 of the extremity interface portion 190, and fasteners 402 (e.g., bolts) are received through the lateral apertures 172, 202. It will be noted that when the rear extremity member 106 is connected to the rear extension member 104, the abutting side 206 of the extremity interface portion 190 is laterally aligned with the abutting sides 146, 186. Additionally, the reinforcing member 300 is positioned such that two of the apertures 304 are aligned with the apertures 174, and two of the apertures 304 are aligned with the apertures 204. Fasteners 410 are received in the apertures 304, 174, 204 to connect the reinforcing member 300 to the rear extension member 104 and to the rear extremity member 106.

[0091] The front extension member 105 is connected to the main frame member 102 via the main and front extension interfaces 120, 160. More specifically, the abutting side 146 of the front main interface portion 140 abuts the abutting side 176 of the front extension interface portion 170, and fasteners 404 (e.g., bolts) are received through the lateral apertures 142, 172. Additionally, the reinforcing member 302 is positioned such that two of the apertures 304 are aligned with the apertures 144, and two of the apertures 304 are aligned with the apertures 174. Fasteners 412 are received in the apertures 304, 144, 174 to connect the reinforcing member 302 to the main frame member 102 and to the front extension member 105.

[0092] The wheel connector 109 is connected to the front extension member 105 via the wheel connector interface portion 250 and the front extension interface 160. More specifically, the abutting side 256 of the wheel connector interface portion 250 abuts the abutting side 186 of the front extension interface portion 180, and fasteners 406 are received through the lateral apertures 182, 252.

[0093] With regard to the interface portions 130, 140, 170, 180, 200, 250, in the embodiment illustrated in Figure 4, the respective abutting sides abut with one another. It is contemplated that in other embodiments, the respective abutting sides could be interlocked to one another. For example, with reference to Figure 6A, the abutting sides could be configured to interlock to one another in an S-configuration or a L-configuration. This configuration would provide a longitudinal and a lateral interlock between the interlocked interfaces, which would contribute to reinforcing the frame assembly 100 when assembled. With reference to Figures 6B and 6C, the interface portions 130, 140, 170, 180, 200, 250 could also be configured to be mounted to one another in a "sandwich" configuration or a “clevis” configuration to further reinforce the frame assembly 100. These macro interlocking configurations are examples and other configurations are contemplated as well. In addition, at least some of the interface portions 130, 140, 170, 180, 200, 250 can have micro interlocking features that ensure mechanical relationship therebetween. Examples of micro interlocking features include, without being limited to, complementary shapes (e.g. male-female, dovetail, etc.), hole and dowel pin combination, keyway and key combination, etc.

[0094] It is also contemplated that the interface portions 130, 140, 170, 180, 200, 250 may comprise a portion that is offset in the lateral and / or vertical directions, as shown in Figures 6D, 6E. These lateral and / or vertical offsets can assist in changing properties of the frame assembly 100 in specific desired ways.

[0095] Referring back to Figure 3, 4 and 5A, the drive extremity member 108 is connected to the main frame member 102 via the main interface portion 120 and the drive interface portion 220. More specifically, fasteners 408 are received through the apertures 154, 212.

[0096] The wheel connecting assembly 260 is connected to the frame assembly 100. Specifically, the connecting member 270 engages the non-abutting side 138 of rear main interface portion 130, and the connecting member 271 engages the non-abutting side 188 of the front extension interface portion 180. The fasteners 400 are also received through the apertures 276 of the connecting members 270, 271. The wheel connecting assembly 261 is connected to the frame assembly 100 similarly. The connecting member 270 engages the non-abutting side 178 of the rear extension interface portion 170, and the connecting member 271 engages the non-abutting side 148 of the main front interface portion 140. The fasteners 404 are also received through the apertures 276 of the connecting members 270, 271. The carrying members 280 are connected to their respective connecting members 270, 271 such that the concave profile of the carrying members 280 is oriented towards the bottom.

[0097] It will be noted that the fasteners 400, 402, 404, 406, 410, 411, 412 enable the members of the frame assembly 100 to be selectively connected to one another, such that the members can be disconnected and reconnected as desired. Additionally, fastening and unfastening the fasteners 400, 402, 404, 406, 410, 411, 412 do not require any specialized tools. Indeed, the fasteners 400, 402, 404, 406, 410, 411, 412 may be fastened / unfastened by commonly available tools such as Allen keys or screwdrivers.

[0098] It will be noted that when the frame assembly 100 is in the first configuration, the track system 30 has a triangular shape.

[0099] Now referring to Figure 5B, the frame assembly 100 has been adjusted to a second configuration, in which the front extension member 105 has been removed from the frame assembly 100. To remove the front extension member 105 from the frame assembly 100, the reinforcing member 302 is disconnected from the main frame member 102 and from the front extension member 105 by unfastening the fasteners 412, then the front extension member 105 is disconnected from the main frame member 102 and from the wheel connector 109 by unfastening the fasteners 404, 406. Then, the wheel connector 109 is connected to the main frame member 102, which can be done due to the configuration of the interface portions 250, 140 being similar. Thus, when in the second configuration, the frame assembly 100 includes the main frame member 102, the rear extension member 104, the rear extremity member 106, the drive extremity member 108 and the wheel connector 109.

[0100] Due to the removal of the front extension member 105, the number of support wheel assemblies 64a, 64b, 64c, 64d is reduced to three support wheel assemblies 64a, 64b, 64c. In some embodiments, this can be done by connecting the support wheel assembly 64c directly to the holders 270, 271, and omitting the carrying member 280.

[0101] When the frame assembly 100 is in the second configuration, properties of the track system 40 are modulated. For example, a size of a contact patch of the track system 40 is reduced relative to the size of the contact patch of the track system 40 when the frame assembly 100 is in the first configuration. This can be advantageous in embodiments where enhanced maneuverability is desired. Additionally, a position of the contact patch is moved in the longitudinal direction. The overall size of the track system 40 is also reduced.

[0102] Now referring to Figure 5C, the frame assembly 100 has been adjusted from the second configuration to a third configuration, in which the rear extension member 104 has been removed from the frame assembly 100. To remove the rear extension member 104, the reinforcing member 300 is disconnected from the rear extremity member 106 and from the rear extension member 104 by unfastening the fasteners 410, and the reinforcing member 301 is disconnected from the main frame member 102 and from the rear extensionmember 104 by unfastening the fasteners 411. Then, the rear extension member 104 is disconnected from the main frame member 102 and the rear extremity member 106 by unfastening the fasteners 400, 402. Then, the rear extremity member 106 is connected to the main frame member 102, via fasteners, and one of the reinforcing members 300, 301 is connected to the main frame member 102 and to the rear extension member 104. Thus, when in the third configuration, the frame assembly 100 includes the main frame member 102, the rear extremity member 106, the drive extremity member 108 and the wheel connector 109.

[0103] Due to the removal of the rear extension member 104, the number of support wheel assemblies 64a, 64b, 64c is reduced to two support wheel assemblies 64a, 64c. In some embodiments, this can be done by connecting the support wheel assembly 64a directly to the holders 270, 271, and omitting the carrying member 280.

[0104] When the frame assembly 100 is in the third configuration, properties of the track system 40 are modulated. For example, the size of the contact patch of the track system 40 is reduced relative to the size of the contact patch of the track system 40 when the frame assembly 100 is in the first or second configurations.

[0105] Now referring to Figure 5D, the frame assembly 100 has been adjusted from the second configuration to a fourth configuration, in which a secondary rear extension member 107 has been added to the frame assembly 100. The secondary rear extension member 107 is the same as the front and rear extension members 105, 104 and thus, will not be redescribed in detail herewith. The secondary rear extension member 107 is connected between the rear extension member 104 and the rear extremity member 106 in a fashion similar to what has been described hereabove.

[0106] Due to the addition of the secondary rear extension member 107, the number of support wheel assemblies 64a, 64b, 64c is increased to five support wheel assemblies 64a, 64b, 64c, 64d, 64e. In some embodiments, this can be done by adding an additional wheel connecting assembly.

[0107] When the frame assembly 100 is in the fourth configuration, properties of the track system 40 are modulated. For example, the size of the contact patch of the track system 40 is increased relative to the size of the contact patch of the track system 40 when the frame assembly 100 is in the first, second or third configurations. This can be advantageous, for example, when better floatability is desired. Additionally, the overall longitudinal position of the contact patch is moved with respect to the drive wheel assembly 50. In fact, the overall shape of the track system 40 changes from a generally isosceles triangular to a scalene triangle due to the asymmetrical configuration thereof.

[0108] It will be noted that in some instances, the frame assembly 100 may be adjusted from the third configuration to the fourth configuration, by adding two rear extension members. That is, the frame assembly 100 can be adjusted from the any one of the first, second, third or fourth configurations to any other one of the first, second, third and fourth configurations. It is understood that many other configurations are possible and contemplated, thanks to the “generic” or “universal” aspect of the technology and the configurations of the components defined thereby.

[0109] It will further be noted that since the extension members 104, 105, 107 are the same, the adjustment of the frame assembly 100 is a straightforward process. That is, likelihood of connecting various members in the wrong places are reduced. It is contemplated that in some embodiments, the various members may be provided with markings or features to further minimize wrong connection. This can be particularly helpful for asymmetrical configurations, for instance.

[0110] The present technology further enables to modulate the configuration of the frame assembly 100 with a same number of members (i.e., without needing to add a new member). For example, if the track system 40 has the frame assembly 100 in the second configuration, the front extension member 105 can be disconnected from its position, and then connected to the rear main interface portion 130 (thereby making the front extension member into a rear extension member). Thus, track properties of the track system 40 are modulated without needing to purchase a new part. This is in part enabled by the “generic” or “universal” configuration of the interface portions.

[0111] With reference to Figures 7A and 7B, an alternative embodiment of the track system 40, namely track system 40’ is shown. Features of the track system 40’ similar to those of the track system 40 have been labeled with the same reference numerals, and will not be redescribed in detail herewith. The track system 40’ includes one wheel connecting assembly 260 carrying support wheel assemblies 60a, 60b.

[0112] In Figure 7A, the carrying member 280 is positioned such that its concave profile is oriented toward the top. As a result, a vertically lowermost point of the wheels of the support wheel assemblies 64a, 64b is spaced from a lower end of the main frame member 102 by a distance Hl.

[0113] In Figure 7B, the carrying member 280 is positioned such that its concave profile is oriented toward the bottom. As a result, the vertically lowermost point of the wheels of the support wheel assemblies 60a, 60b is spaced from a lower end of the main frame member 102 by a distance H2.

[0114] The distance H2 is greater than the distance Hl. It will be appreciated that by changing the orientation of the carrying member 280, properties of the track system 40’ are modulated. For example, changing the orientation of the carrying member 280 can modulate the size of the contact patch, longitudinal location of the contact patch, as well as modulate approach and departure angles of the track system 40’. It is contemplated that according to some embodiments of the present technology, this same principle could be applied to one or more of the main frame member 102, the front and rear extension frame members 105, 104, the rear extremity frame member 106, the drive frame member 108, and the wheel connector 109. Thus, one or more of the main frame member 102, the front and rear extension frame members 105, 104, the rear extremity frame member 106, the drive frame member 108, and the wheel connector 109 could be configured to be asymmetrical at least according to one plane so that different orientations thereof can provide different properties.

[0115] With reference to Figures 8A and 8B, an alternative embodiment of the frame assembly 100, namely frame assembly 1000, will now be described in greater detail with reference to a track system 41. Features of the track system 41 similar to those of thetrack system 40 have been labeled with the same reference numerals and will not be redescribed in detail herewith, unless mentioned otherwise.

[0116] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 8 A, when the frame assembly 1000 is in a first configuration, the frame assembly 1000 includes a main frame member 1102, an extension member 1104, and an extremity member 1106.

[0117] The main frame member 1102 is generally linear, and has a drive wheel connecting end 1110, and an extending end 1112. The drive wheel connecting end 1110 is configured to connect to the drive wheel assembly 50. In this embodiment, the drive wheel assembly 50 also acts as a ground wheel. The extending end 1112 has a main frame interface 1120, which has a main frame interface portion 1130. The main frame interface portion 1130 is similar to the front main interface portion 130, and hence will not be redescribed herewith.

[0118] The extension member 1104 is similar to the extension members 104, 105, and the extremity member 1106 is similar to the front extremity member 106. Thus, the extension and extremity members 1104, 1106 will not be described herewith, and neither will their connections.

[0119] In the first configuration of the frame assembly 1000, due to the linear shape of the main frame member 1102, the main frame member 1102 can be disposed so as to extend generally horizontally. The extension member 1104 can connect to the main frame member 1102 through the interface portions (e.g., the lateral apertures being disposed along a square pattern enable various orientations). As a result of this orientation, the track system 41 has a generally oblong shape instead of a generally triangular shape.

[0120] With reference to Figure 8B, the frame assembly 1000 has been adjusted to a second configuration. In this second configuration, the main frame member 1102 is positioned generally vertically. The extension member 1104 can connect to the main frame member 1102 through the interface portions (e.g., the lateral apertures being disposed along a square pattern enable various orientations). As a result of this orientation, the track system 41 has a generally triangular shape.

[0121] Similarly to the frame assembly 100, and as depicted in Figures 8C, 8D and 8E, the frame assembly 1000 can be adjusted to assume a variety of different configurations by changing the number of members therein. Other configurations are contemplated as well, such as a generally trapezoidal shape, where at least one of the idler wheel assemblies is positioned higher than the support wheel assemblies.

[0122] The various members of the frame assembly 1000 each have an interface portion that is “universal”. That is, all the interface portions are configured to connect to one another. As a result, the various members can be connected to one another to assume different orientations and / or configurations.

[0123] When there is a desire for changing the configuration of the frame assembly 100-, members of the frame assembly 1000 that are removed, may be re-used for other track systems, or may be re-used down the road for alternative configurations. The various members of the frame assembly 100 can assist in providing a range of different track properties. This can be particularly helpful and desirable for providing flexibility and adjustability during development phases of design of a new vehicular platform and / or of a new application of a given vehicular platform. In addition, since the assembly of the different components of the reconfigurable track system is simple, this allows users to reconfigure the track system in accordance with their needs, without additional costs or difficulties.

[0124] Modifications and improvements to the above-described embodiments of the present invention may become apparent to those skilled in the art. The foregoing description is intended to be exemplary rather than limiting. The scope of the present invention is therefore intended to be limited solely by the appended claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A reconfigurable frame assembly for a track system, comprising: a main frame member having a main interface; an extension frame member having an extension interface; and an extremity frame member having an extremity interface, the main interface, the extension interface and the extremity interface being selectively interconnected for forming the reconfigurable frame assembly in: a first configuration and a second configuration, the second configuration being different from the first configuration.

2. The reconfigurable frame assembly of claim 1, wherein: in the first configuration, the reconfigurable frame assembly has a first shape; and in the second configuration, the reconfigurable frame assembly has a second shape different from the first shape.

3. The reconfigurable frame assembly of claim 2, wherein the first and second shapes are one of a linear shape, a triangular shape and a trapezoidal shape.

4. The reconfigurable frame assembly of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein with the extremity interface being connected to the main interface, the extremity frame member is configured to operationally connect to a drive wheel assembly of the track system.

5. The reconfigurable frame assembly of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the extremity frame member is configured to be connected to a wheel assembly.

6. The reconfigurable frame assembly of claim 5, wherein the extremity frame member is configured to be selectively connected to the wheel assembly.

7. The reconfigurable frame assembly of claim 5 or 6, wherein the wheel assembly is one of an idler wheel assembly and a support wheel assembly.

8. The reconfigurable frame assembly of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein a wheel assembly is connected to at least one of the main frame member and the extension frame member.

9. The reconfigurable frame assembly of claim 8, wherein the wheel assembly is selectively connected to the at least one of the main frame member and the extension frame member.

10. The reconfigurable frame assembly of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein: in the first configuration, the extension interface and the extremity interface are connected to the main interface; and in the second configuration, the extension interface is connected to the main interface, and the extremity interface is connected to the extension interface.

11. The reconfigurable frame assembly of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein: the main interface includes a first main interface portion and a second main interface portion, with the extension interface being connected to the first main interface portion, the extension frame member is disposed in a first position relative to the main frame member; and with the extension interface being connected to the second main interface portion, the extension frame member is disposed in a second position relative to the main frame member.

12. The reconfigurable frame assembly of claim 11, wherein one of the first and second main interface portions is disposed at a front end of the main frame member, and an other one of the first and second main interface portions is disposed at a rear end of the main frame member.

13. The reconfigurable frame assembly of claim 11 or 12, wherein the reconfigurable frame assembly is further configurable in a third configuration, in which the extension interface is connected to the first main interface portion, and the extremity interface is connected to the second main interface portion.

14. The reconfigurable frame assembly of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the extremity frame member includes one of a tensioner, an anti-rotation assembly, an alignment assembly, and a shaft.

15. The reconfigurable frame assembly of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the main interface, the extension interface and the extremity interface are configured to be connected to one another by fasteners.

16. The reconfigurable frame assembly of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the main interface, the extension interface and the extremity interface are configured to be mechanically interlocked with one another.

17. The reconfigurable frame assembly of claim 16, wherein the main interface, the extension interface and the extremity interface are configured to be mechanically interlocked by at least one of a male and female arrangement, a key and keyway arrangement, a dovetail arrangement and a dowel or shear pin and hole arrangement.

18. The reconfigurable frame assembly of claim 16 or 17, wherein at least some of the main interface, extension interface and extremity interface are configured to provide one of an “S-shaped joint”, an “L-shaped joint”, a “Clevis joint”, a “Sandwich joint”, a “Z-offset joint”, or a “Y-offset joint”.

19. The reconfigurable frame assembly of any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein: the extension frame member is a first extension frame member, and the extension interface is a first extension interface; the extremity frame member is a first extremity frame member, and the extremity interface is a first extension interface; andthe reconfigurable frame member further includes: a second extension frame member having a second extension interface; a second extremity frame member having a second extremity interface; the first and second main interfaces, the first and second extension interfaces and the first and second extremity interface being selectively interconnectable for forming the reconfigurable frame assembly in at least one other configuration.

20. A track system comprising: the reconfigurable frame assembly of any one of claims 1 to 19, a drive wheel assembly operatively connected to the reconfigurable frame assembly; at least one of an idler wheel assembly and a support wheel assembly connected to the reconfigurable frame assembly; and an endless track surrounding the reconfigurable frame assembly, the drive wheel assembly, and the at least one of an idler wheel assembly and a support wheel assembly.

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