Track assembly, vehicle having the same, wheel, and endless track for using the same

Abstract

Track assemblies, wheels, endless tracks, and track assembly conversion kits are disclosed. One track assembly includes a rim and a plurality of engagement elements, a wheel defining a plurality of grooves, an endless track including a body portion and a plurality of lugs extending outwardly from a first lateral side of the body portion. Each of the plurality of lugs is sized and shaped to be received within a respective one of the plurality of grooves, and a given one of the plurality of lugs extends across the rim of the wheel so as to be received within a respective one of the grooves. One elastomeric endless track has a body portion, a plurality of longitudinally spaced drive lugs extending from the body portion, and a plurality of longitudinally spaced outer lugs extending from an outer surface of the body portion, the plurality of longitudinally spaced outer lugs being longitudinally offset from the drive lugs.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application generally relates to wheels for a track assembly, endless tracks for a wheel assembly, a track assembly, and a vehicle having the track assembly.

Background Art

[0002] Various vehicles, such as military vehicles or agricultural vehicles, are equipped with a track assembly instead of tires for various reasons, particularly to enhance friction on various soft, slippery, and / or uneven ground surfaces (e.g., soil, mud, sand, ice, snow, etc.).

[0003] Conventionally, the track assemblies in some of these vehicles (especially military vehicles) are equipped with metal endless tracks and wheels. These metal endless tracks can be heavy and difficult to install, can make a lot of noise, can cause many vibrations, which can have an adverse effect on the ride comfort and at the same time may reduce the lifespan of some components of the vehicle.

[0004] Therefore, a track assembly that can alleviate the above problems is desired.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The object of the present technology is to improve at least some of the disadvantages existing in the prior art.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] According to one aspect of the present technology, a track assembly for a truck vehicle is provided. The track assembly includes a wheel and an endless track. The wheel has a rim and a plurality of engagement elements extending radially outward from the rim, defining a plurality of grooves therebetween. The endless track is engageable with the wheel and has a reinforced elastomeric structure, including a body portion and a plurality of lugs. The body portion has a longitudinal plane and includes an outer surface for contacting the ground, an inner surface opposite the outer surface, a first lateral surface extending between the inner surface and the outer surface, and a second lateral surface opposite the first lateral surface and extending between the inner surface and the outer surface. The plurality of lugs extend outward from a first lateral side portion and are longitudinally spaced apart from each other along the first lateral surface. Each of the plurality of lugs is sized and shaped to be received within a respective one of the plurality of grooves, and a given one of the plurality of lugs extends across the rim of the wheel so as to be received within the respective groove.

[0007] In some embodiments, the endless track includes a plurality of guide lugs extending from an inner surface.

[0008] In some embodiments, the plurality of guide lugs are positioned generally parallel to the direction of the longitudinal plane of the body portion.

[0009] In some embodiments, the endless track further includes a plurality of reinforcing elements, each one of the plurality of reinforcing elements extending across the width of the endless track and having a central reinforcing portion that reinforces a respective one of the plurality of guide lugs.

[0010] In some embodiments, the endless track further includes a plurality of reinforcing elements, each one of the plurality of reinforcing elements extending across the width of the endless track.

[0011] In some embodiments, each one of the plurality of reinforcing elements extends from the outermost segment in a first lateral direction of the endless track to the outermost segment in a second lateral direction of the endless track.

[0012] In some embodiments, each one of the plurality of reinforcing elements is generally flat.

[0013] In some embodiments, each one of the plurality of reinforcing elements has an engagement portion for reinforcing each one of the plurality of lugs and for engaging with a wheel.

[0014] In some embodiments, each one of the plurality of reinforcing elements has a central reinforcing portion.

[0015] In some embodiments, the reinforcing element has an interlocking feature for interlocking with the body portion.

[0016] In some embodiments, the endless track further includes at least one reinforcing member extending longitudinally along the length of the endless track.

[0017] In some embodiments, the at least one reinforcing member is at least one layer of the reinforcing member.

[0018] In some embodiments, the at least one layer of the reinforcing member is a layer of reinforcing cords.

[0019] In some embodiments, when one of the plurality of lugs is received in one of the plurality of grooves, the inner surface of one of the plurality of lugs is spaced from the bottom of the groove.

[0020] In some embodiments, the plurality of lugs define a plurality of gaps, and when the wheel and the endless track are engaged with each other, one of the plurality of engagement elements is received into one of the plurality of gaps.

[0021] In some embodiments, the rim has a first annular rim portion and a second annular rim portion, the plurality of engagement elements extend from the second annular rim portion, and when the wheel is operatively connected to the endless track, a portion of the inner surface of the endless track is supported on the first annular rim portion.

[0022] In some embodiments, the plurality of engagement elements of the wheel are a first plurality of engagement elements, the plurality of grooves defined therebetween are a first plurality of grooves, the wheel further includes a second plurality of engagement elements that extend radially outward from the rim and define a second plurality of grooves therebetween. Additionally, the plurality of lugs of the endless track are a first plurality of lugs, the endless track further includes a second plurality of lugs that extend outward from a second lateral side, and the second plurality of lugs are longitudinally spaced apart from each other along the second lateral side. Each lug of the second plurality of lugs is sized and shaped to be received into a respective groove of the second plurality of grooves, and each lug of the second plurality of lugs is sized and shaped to be received into a respective groove of the second plurality of grooves, and a given one of the second plurality of lugs is configured to extend across the rim of the wheel so as to be received into a respective groove.

[0023] In another aspect of the technology, a vehicle is provided that includes a body portion, an engine supported by the body portion, and at least two track systems according to the above aspect or according to one or more of the above aspects and the above embodiments. The at least two track systems are operatively connected to the engine.

[0024] In some embodiments, the vehicle is a military vehicle.

[0025] According to another aspect of the present technology, a replacement wheel for replacing a wheel adapted for a metal track is provided. The replacement wheel is configured to engage in drive engagement with an endless track and includes a rim and a plurality of engagement elements. The rim has a first annular rim portion and a second annular rim portion. The plurality of engagement elements are circumferentially disposed around the second annular rim portion, extend radially outward from the second annular rim portion, and define a plurality of grooves therebetween.

[0026] According to another aspect of the present technology, a wheel for a track assembly is provided. The wheel has a rim having a first annular rim portion and a second annular rim portion, and a plurality of engagement elements circumferentially disposed around the second annular rim portion. The plurality of engagement elements extend radially outward from the first annular rim portion and define a plurality of grooves therebetween. The wheel also has a rotational axis. In some embodiments, a first radius is defined from the rotational axis to the bottom of a groove, a second radius is defined from the rotational axis to a vertex of one of the engagement elements, and a third radius is defined from the rotational axis to the radially outward surface of the first annular portion.

[0027] In some embodiments, the third radius is greater than the first radius.

[0028] According to another aspect of the present technology, there is provided a track assembly including a wheel and an endless track engageable with the wheel, according to the above aspect, or according to one or more of the above aspects and the above embodiments. The endless track has a body portion and a plurality of lugs. The body portion has an outer surface for contacting the ground, an inner surface opposite to the outer surface, a part of the inner surface being configured to engage with a first annular rim portion, the inner surface, a first lateral surface, and a second lateral surface opposite to the first lateral surface. The plurality of lugs extend outwardly from a first lateral side portion and are arranged longitudinally spaced apart from each other along the first lateral surface. In some embodiments, the endless track is positionable relative to the wheel such that when the inner surface of the body portion contacts the first annular rim portion, one of the plurality of lugs is received in one of the plurality of grooves and the inner surface of one of the plurality of lugs is spaced from the bottom of the groove.

[0029] According to another aspect of the present technology, there is provided a military vehicle including a body portion, an engine supported by the body portion, and at least two track systems according to the above aspect. The at least two track systems are operably connected to the engine.

[0030] According to another aspect of the present technology, there is provided a track assembly conversion kit for an endless track vehicle having an original wheel and an original endless track. The track assembly conversion kit includes a replacement wheel for installing the original wheel and a replacement endless track for replacing the original endless track. The replacement wheel is operably connectable to the endless track vehicle and includes a rim and a plurality of engagement elements, the plurality of engagement elements extending radially outward from the rim and defining a plurality of grooves therebetween. The replacement endless track is operably connectable to the endless track vehicle and is engageable with the replacement wheel. The replacement endless track has a reinforced elastomeric structure and includes a body portion and a plurality of lugs. The body portion has an outer surface for contacting the ground, an inner surface opposite the outer surface, a first lateral surface, and a second lateral surface opposite the first lateral surface. The plurality of lugs extend outwardly from a first lateral side portion and are longitudinally spaced apart from each other along the first lateral surface. Each of the plurality of lugs is sized and shaped to be received within a respective one of the plurality of grooves, and a given one of the plurality of lugs extends across the rim of the wheel so as to be received within the respective groove.

[0031] In some embodiments, the width of the replacement endless track is generally similar to the width of the original endless track.

[0032] In some embodiments, the original endless track is a metal endless track.

[0033] In some embodiments, the endless track vehicle is a tank.

[0034] In some embodiments, the track assembly conversion kit further includes instructions for replacing the original wheels with replacement wheels and for replacing the original endless track with a replacement endless track.

[0035] According to another aspect of the present technology, an endless track having a reinforced polymer structure is provided. The endless track includes a body portion, a plurality of longitudinally spaced lugs, a plurality of longitudinally spaced outer lugs, and a plurality of reinforcing elements. The body portion has a longitudinal plane and includes an outer surface for contacting the ground, an inner surface opposite the outer surface, a first lateral surface extending between the inner surface and the outer surface, and a second lateral surface opposite the first lateral surface and extending between the inner surface and the outer surface. The plurality of longitudinally spaced lugs extend from the body portion. The plurality of longitudinally spaced outer lugs extend from the outer surface, and the plurality of outer lugs define a channel therebetween. The plurality of reinforcing elements are disposed within the body portion, and each one of the reinforcing elements is generally longitudinally aligned with a central axis of one of the channels.

[0036] In some embodiments, each channel extends across the width of the endless track.

[0037] In some embodiments, each channel has a first open end in the first lateral surface and a second open end in the second lateral surface, and each one of the plurality of reinforcing elements is generally longitudinally aligned with the first and second open ends.

[0038] In some embodiments, the plurality of lugs extend from the inner surface.

[0039] In some embodiments, the plurality of lugs are positioned generally parallel to the direction of the longitudinal plane of the body portion.

[0040] In some embodiments, the plurality of lugs extend generally outwardly from at least one of the first and second lateral surfaces.

[0041] In some embodiments, each one of the plurality of lugs is longitudinally aligned with one of the reinforcing elements.

[0042] In some embodiments, each one of the plurality of reinforcing elements has an engagement portion for engaging the wheel and for reinforcing the lug.

[0043] In some embodiments, the body portion has a plurality of central guide lugs, and each one of the plurality of reinforcing elements has a central reinforcing portion for reinforcing one of the plurality of central guide lugs.

[0044] In some embodiments, each one of the plurality of reinforcing elements is generally flat.

[0045] In some embodiments, the reinforcing element further includes an interlocking feature for interlocking with the body portion.

[0046] In some embodiments, the plurality of outer lugs are a plurality of tread lugs.

[0047] In some embodiments, the body portion further includes at least one layer of reinforcing members that extend longitudinally along the length of the endless track.

[0048] In some embodiments, at least one layer of the reinforcing members is a layer of reinforcing cords.

[0049] In some embodiments, the plurality of reinforcing elements are embedded into the body portion.

[0050] According to another aspect of the present technology, a track assembly is provided that includes a wheel operably connectable to a vehicle and an endless track according to the above aspect or according to one or more of the above aspects and the above embodiments. The endless track is engageable with the wheel.

[0051] According to another aspect, a vehicle is provided that includes a frame, an engine supported by the frame, and two track systems according to the above aspect. The two track systems are connected to the frame.

[0052] According to another aspect of the present technology, an endless track for a heavy vehicle is provided. The endless track has a reinforced elastomeric structure and includes a body portion, a plurality of outer lugs, a plurality of side lugs, and a plurality of reinforcing elements. The body portion has an outer surface, an inner surface opposite the outer surface, a first lateral surface, and a second lateral surface. The plurality of outer lugs extend from the outer surface, are longitudinally spaced from each other, and define an outer groove therebetween. The plurality of side lugs extend outwardly from the first lateral surface, the plurality of side lugs are longitudinally spaced from each other, and each one of the plurality of side lugs is longitudinally aligned with one of the outer grooves. The plurality of reinforcing elements are disposed within the elongated body portion, and each one of the reinforcing elements is longitudinally aligned with one of the plurality of side lugs.

[0053] In some embodiments, the plurality of reinforcing elements are embedded within the body portion.

[0054] According to another aspect of the present technology, an elastomeric endless track for a track system is provided. The elastomeric endless track includes a body portion, a plurality of longitudinally spaced drive lugs, and a plurality of longitudinally spaced outer lugs. The body portion has a longitudinal plane and includes an outer surface for contacting the ground, an inner surface opposite the outer surface, a first lateral surface extending between the inner surface and the outer surface, and a second lateral surface opposite the first lateral surface and extending between the inner surface and the outer surface. The plurality of longitudinally spaced drive lugs extend from the body portion. The plurality of longitudinally spaced outer lugs extend from the outer surface of the body portion, and the outer lugs are longitudinally offset from the drive lugs.

[0055] In some embodiments, the outer lugs are longitudinally offset from the drive lugs by approximately half the pitch between the drive lugs.

[0056] In some embodiments, the elastomeric endless track is configured to deform about an imaginary axis that extends at an angle relative to the inner and outer surfaces.

[0057] In some embodiments, the elastomeric endless track further includes a plurality of reinforcing elements, each of the plurality of reinforcing elements being received within one of the plurality of drive lugs.

[0058] In the context of this specification, unless explicitly provided otherwise, terms such as "first," "second," "third," etc. are used as adjectives only for the purpose of enabling a distinction between the nouns they modify and are not used for the purpose of describing any particular relationship between those nouns.

[0059] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" are to be construed to include the plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0060] 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% of, preferably within 10% of, more preferably within 5% of the given value or range.

[0061] As used herein, the term "and / or" is to be considered each as a specific disclosure of two specified features or components, either with or without the other. For example, "A and / or B" is to be considered (i) A, (ii) B, and (iii) each specific disclosure of A and B, as if each were individually recited herein.

[0062] For the purposes of this application, terms associated with the spatial orientation when referring to the track assembly and components related thereto, such as "vertical", "horizontal", "forward", "rearward", "left", "right", "upper", and "lower", etc., are to be such as would be understood by the driver of a vehicle to which the track assembly is connected, where the driver is sitting in the vehicle in an upright driving position, the vehicle is steered in a straight-ahead direction, and is stationary on a flat, level ground.

[0063] Implementations of the present technology each have at least one of the above-described objectives and / or aspects, but not necessarily all of them. It should be understood that some aspects of the present technology resulting from the attempt to achieve the above objectives may not satisfy this objective and / or may satisfy other objectives not specifically described herein.

[0064] Additional and / or alternative features, aspects, and advantages of the implementation forms of the present technology will become apparent from the following description, the accompanying drawings, and the appended claims.

[0065] 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 will be used in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0066]

Figure 1A

Figure 1B

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0067] The present disclosure, in its application, is not limited to the details of the construction and arrangement of the components described in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The present disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or carried out in various ways. Also, the terminology and phraseology used herein are 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 means including the items listed thereafter and, optionally, additional items. In the following description, like numerical reference symbols refer to like elements.

[0068] In one aspect of the present technology, a conversion kit is provided for replacing a conventional sprocket wheel and endless track with a sprocket wheel and endless track according to an embodiment of the present technology. The sprocket wheel and the endless track are configured to facilitate their mounting to a vehicle. In particular, the sprocket wheel and the endless track can be quickly mounted and do not require modification of the vehicle to which they are connected.

[0069] In another aspect of the present technology, an endless track with more uniform rigidity is provided. As a result of the more uniform rigidity of the endless track along its length, vibration can be reduced.

[0070] The present technology is described with reference to military vehicle 20. Specifically, military vehicle 20 is an armored personnel carrier 20 having a forward direction indicated by arrow 21. It is contemplated that military vehicle 20 can be another military vehicle such as a tank. It should be noted that the present technology can be used with other types of vehicles besides military vehicles. For example, the present technology can be used with agricultural vehicles such as tractors, industrial vehicles such as bulldozers and skid steer loaders, utility vehicles, exploration vehicles, and / or all-terrain vehicles such as side-by-side vehicles or utility terrain vehicles. It is also contemplated that the present technology can be used with trailers or other non-powered vehicles.

[0071] Referring to FIGS. 1A and 1B, military vehicle 20 has a frame 22 and an engine 24 supported by frame 22 (both are shown schematically). Also, military vehicle 20 includes a track assembly 30 on each side thereof, as is known in the art. Track assembly 30 includes a sprocket wheel 32, a plurality of load wheels 34, an idler wheel 36, and a metal endless track 38, respectively. Both sprocket wheels 32 are operatively connected to engine 24 and are configured to drive their respective metal endless tracks 38, and thus are configured to drive military vehicle 20. Load wheels 34 are configured to assist in guiding metal endless track 38. Idler wheel 36 is configured to adjust the tension of endless track 38.

[0072] In a conventional system, the metal endless track 38 can be noisy and may be difficult to mount around the sprocket wheel 32, the plurality of load wheels 34, and the idler wheel 36.

[0073] FIG. 2 illustrates a track assembly conversion kit 40 according to an embodiment of the present technology. The track assembly conversion kit 40 includes a replacement sprocket wheel 42 and a replacement endless track 48. In some embodiments, one conversion kit can include two replacement sprocket wheel assemblies 42 and two replacement endless tracks 48 (i.e., one conversion kit can include replacements for two track assemblies). As will be described in more detail below, the track assembly conversion kit 40 is configured to replace the sprocket wheel 32 (hereinafter referred to as the original sprocket wheel 32) with the replacement sprocket wheel 42 and the metal endless track 38 (hereinafter referred to as the original endless track 38) with the replacement endless track 48. Thus, the track assembly conversion kit 40 provides components for replacing the track assembly 30 with a track assembly 41, where the track assembly 41 includes a replacement sprocket wheel 42, a plurality of load wheels 34, an idler wheel 36, and a replacement endless track 48, respectively. Hereinafter, the replacement sprocket wheel 42 will be referred to as the sprocket wheel 42, and the replacement endless track 48 will be referred to as the endless track 48. It should be noted that according to some aspects of the present technology, the military vehicle 20 can originally be equipped with a track assembly having a sprocket wheel according to an embodiment of the present technology and / or can be equipped with an endless track according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0074] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the sprocket wheel 42 is described. The sprocket wheel 42 is operatively connected to the engine 24 and is rotatable about a sprocket wheel axis 50. The sprocket wheel 42 defines a central aperture 52 that is generally aligned with the sprocket wheel axis 50. In some embodiments, the central aperture 52 is configured to partially receive an axle (not shown) of the vehicle 20.

[0075] The sprocket wheel 42 has a rim 44 and a plurality of engaging elements 46a, 46b extending radially from the rim 44.

[0076] The rim 44 includes a central annular rim portion 54, side annular rim portions 56a, 56b disposed on either lateral side of the central annular rim portion 54, and edge annular rim portions 58a, 58b. The edge annular rim portion 58a is disposed on the outer lateral side of the side annular rim portion 56a, and the edge annular rim portion 58b is disposed on the outer lateral side of the side annular rim portion 56b.

[0077] The central annular rim portion 54 defines a plurality of apertures 55 spaced circumferentially thereabout. As described below, the apertures 55 are configured to receive a portion of the endless track 48 therein. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the central annular rim portion 54 may not define an aperture therein.

[0078] The side annular rim portions 56a, 56b are configured to support a portion of the endless track 48. The side annular rim portions 56a, 56b each have a polygonal radial surface (i.e., there are a plurality of edges). In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the side annular rim portions 56a, 56b may be generally smooth radial surfaces (i.e., without edges). Side radius R Sis defined from the sprocket wheel axis 50 to the radial surface of the side annular rim portions 56a, 56b.

[0079] The edge annular rim portion 58a has a plurality of engaging elements 46a, and the edge annular rim portion 58b has a plurality of engaging elements 46b. The plurality of engaging elements 46a, 46b extend radially outward from the edge annular rim portions 58a, 58b, respectively. Specifically, the engaging elements 46a, 46b are circumferentially spaced around the edge annular rim portions 58a, 58b. The engaging elements 46a, 46b (which can be referred to as "teeth") are configured to engage with the endless track 48. A plurality of groove portions 47a are defined between the plurality of engaging elements 46a, and a plurality of groove portions 47b are defined between the plurality of engaging elements 46b. More precisely, one of the groove portions 47a is defined between two adjacent engaging elements 46a, and one of the groove portions 47b is defined between two adjacent engaging elements 46b. As will be described below, the groove portions 47a, 47b are configured to receive a part of the endless track 48 therein.

[0080] As best seen in FIG. 4, the engaging element radius R E is defined from the sprocket wheel axis 50 to the apex of one of the engaging elements 46a. The groove radius R G is defined from the sprocket wheel axis 50 to the bottom of one of the groove portions 47a. As will become apparent from the following description, the side radius R S , the engaging element radius R E , and the groove radius R G of the relative sizes can provide various advantages to the present technology. In particular, in one embodiment, as will be described below, the side radius R S is smaller than the engaging element radius R E but the groove radius R GIf it is larger than, the sprocket wheel 42 can assist in reducing noise when the sprocket wheel 42 is engaged with the endless track 48, and / or can assist in maintaining a certain tension in the endless track 48.

[0081] In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the sprocket wheel 42 can be configured to have one side annular rim portion 56a and one edge annular rim portion 58a. In such embodiments, the engaging element 46a and the groove portion 47a will be present on one of the lateral sides of the sprocket wheel 42.

[0082] According to some aspects of the present technology, it is further contemplated that the sprocket wheel 42 can be different from the sprocket wheel 42 described above. For example, in some embodiments, the sprocket wheel 42 can define a recess instead of having an engaging element extending radially therefrom (i.e., the sprocket wheel can be configured to be part of an internal drive configuration).

[0083] The sprocket wheel 42 is made of steel. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the sprocket wheel 42 can be made of other materials such as ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMW). In other embodiments, the sprocket wheel 42 can be made of steel covered with UHMW (which can assist in reducing the noise generated thereby when engaged with the endless track 48).

[0084] Referring to FIGS. 5 through 7, an embodiment of the endless track 48 will now be described in more detail. The endless track 48 is configured to be mounted around the sprocket wheel 42, the load wheel 34, and the idler wheel 36 without the need to modify the military vehicle 20.

[0085] The endless track 48 has a body portion 70, and the body portion 70 has an outer surface 72 configured to contact the ground surface, an inner surface 74 opposite the outer surface 72 configured to engage the sprocket wheel 42 and the load wheel 34, and lateral surfaces 76, 78. In this embodiment, the body portion 70 is shown as one continuous loop, but in other embodiments, it is contemplated that the endless track 48 could be a segmented track having at least two body portions connectable to each other.

[0086] Further, the endless track 48 has a plurality of outer lugs 80 extending outwardly from the outer surface 72. The outer lugs 80 are longitudinally spaced from each other in a direction parallel to the longitudinal plane of the body portion 70. The outer lugs 80 define a plurality of channels 81, where one of each of the plurality of channels 81 is defined between two outer lugs 80. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the channels 81 can be defined by more than two outer lugs 80. The channels 81 are generally linear, although they can be differently shaped (e.g., curved) in other embodiments. The channels 81 extend generally perpendicular to the longitudinal plane of the endless track 48. The channels 81 have an open end at the lateral surface 76 and another open end at the lateral surface 78. The channels 81 extend across the width of the endless track 48. In some cases, the channels 81 can extend across a portion of the width of the endless track 48. Also, each of the channels 81 defines a central axis 81a. The outer lugs 80 and the channels 81 form a tread for engaging the ground surface. The tread can vary from embodiment to embodiment. In some cases, the tread can depend on the vehicle 20 and / or the type of ground surface on which the vehicle 20 will travel.

[0087] In addition, the endless track 48 has a plurality of guide lugs 82 extending from the inner surface 74. The guide lugs 82 are arranged at longitudinal intervals from each other. In the present embodiment, the guide lugs 82 are generally centered across the width of the main body 70 such that the guide lug 82 becomes the central guide lug 82. In other embodiments, it is possible to have two or more laterally spaced-apart columns of longitudinally spaced-apart guide lugs 82. The guide lugs 82 can assist in guiding the endless track 48 by engaging the sprocket wheel 32 by being received in the aperture 55 of the central portion 54, by engaging the load wheel 34, and by engaging the idler wheel 36.

[0088] At any lateral side portion of the guide lug 82, the main body 70 defines wheel paths 84a, 84b. The sprocket wheel 42 (the side annular rim portions 56a, 56b thereof), the load wheel 34, and the idler wheel 36 engage the endless track 48 in the wheel paths 84a, 84b. Additionally, the wheel paths 84a, 84b engage the side annular rim portions 56a, 56b of the sprocket wheel 42 as described above.

[0089] The endless track 48 further has a plurality of lugs 86a extending outwardly from the lateral surface 76 and a plurality of lugs 86b extending outwardly from the lateral surface 78. In the present embodiment, the lugs 86a, 86b extend generally vertically from the lateral surfaces 76, 78 respectively, although in some embodiments it is contemplated that the lugs 86a, 86b can extend at an angle from the lateral surfaces 76, 78 respectively. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the plurality of lugs 86a, 86b can extend from only one of the lateral surfaces 76, 78. As will be described hereinafter, the lugs 86a, 86b are configured to engage with the sprocket wheel 42 to drive the endless track 48. More precisely, the lugs 86a, 86b are received in the groove portions 47a, 47b of the sprocket wheel 42 and are respectively configured to engage with the engagement elements 46a, 46b. Since the lugs 86a, 86b engage with the sprocket wheel 42 to drive the endless track 48, the lugs 86a, 86b can be referred to as drive lugs. As best seen in FIG. 7, the inner surfaces of each of the lugs 86a, 86b are vertically above the inner surface 74 of the main body portion 70. The fact that the inner surfaces of the lugs 86a, 86b are vertically above the inner surface 74 helps to guide the endless track 48 and can help to reduce the possibility of detracking by engaging with the lateral surface of the load wheel 34. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the lugs 86a, 86b can be in the same plane as the main body portion 70.

[0090] Further, the endless track 48 defines a plurality of gaps 87a, 87b. Specifically, the gap 87a is defined between two adjacent lugs 86a, and the gap 87b is defined between two adjacent lugs 86b. The gaps 87a, 87b are configured to receive the engagement elements 46a, 46b respectively when the sprocket wheel 42 and the endless track 48 are engaged with each other. The interaction between the engagement elements 46a, 46b and the gaps 87a, 87b is illustrated in FIG. 9.

[0091] Continuing to refer to FIGS. 5 to 7, the endless track 48 also has an upper layer 90a of the reinforcing member and a lower layer 90b of the reinforcing member. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that only a single layer of the reinforcing member may be present, or that three or more layers of the reinforcing member may be present. The upper layer 90a and the lower layer 90b of the reinforcing member are layers 90a, 90b of the reinforcing cord. The upper layer 90a and the lower layer 90b of the reinforcing member are disposed in the endless track 48, extend longitudinally along the length of the endless track 48, and are for limiting the longitudinal deformation thereof.

[0092] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the endless track 48 also includes a plurality of reinforcing elements 92 (only two are shown in FIG. 6), and the plurality of reinforcing elements 92 are disposed along the length of the endless track 48 and are disposed vertically above the upper layer 90a and the lower layer 90b of the reinforcing member. The reinforcing elements 92 are arranged at longitudinal intervals from each other and are longitudinally aligned with the lugs 86a, 86b. In some cases, each one of the reinforcing elements 92 can be longitudinally aligned with the central axis of one of the channels 81. As will be described below, the reinforcing elements 92 are configured to reinforce the lugs 86a, 86b. In some embodiments, the reinforcing elements 92 can be embedded in the body portion 70. Since all of the plurality of reinforcing elements 92 are the same, only one of them will be described here.

[0093] Referring mainly to FIGS. 6 and 7, the reinforcing element 92 has a base portion 94 that extends laterally across the body portion 70. The reinforcing element 92 also has a central reinforcing portion 96 that extends vertically from the center of the base portion 94, an engaging portion 98a on one lateral side of the base portion 94, and an engaging portion 98b disposed on the other lateral side of the base portion 94.

[0094] In some embodiments, the reinforcing element 92 extends across the entire width of the endless track 48. In such embodiments, the reinforcing element 92 extends from the outermost lateral segment 76a of the endless track 48 to the opposite outermost lateral segment 76b, and the reinforcing element 92 extends (at least partially) laterally into the lugs 86a, 86b, thereby reinforcing the lugs 86a, 86b.

[0095] The central reinforcing portion 96 is partially received within one of the guide lugs 82 and is configured to reinforce the guide lug 82. The engaging portion 98a extends into the lug 86a and reinforces the lug 86a, and the engaging portion 98b extends into the lug 86b and reinforces the lug 86b. The engaging portions 98a, 98b extend vertically from the base portion 94, similar to the central reinforcing portion 96a. The engaging portions 98a, 98b are also configured to guide the endless track 48 by engaging the lateral surface of the load wheel 34 while reinforcing the lugs 86a, 86b. In some embodiments, the vertically extending engaging portions 98a, 98b can assist in providing the maximum engagement between the endless track 48 and the sprocket wheel 42, which can improve efficiency. In some embodiments, the engaging portions 98a, 98b can be non-vertically extending (i.e., the base portion 94 can be generally flat other than with respect to the central reinforcing portion 96).

[0096] The reinforcing element 92 is configured to reinforce the endless track 48 (particularly, the body portion 70 and the lugs 86a, 86b) from shear deformation when the sprocket wheel 46 is engaged with the endless track 48. Thus, the reinforcing element 92 is made of a rigid material (i.e., not bendable). In some cases, the reinforcing element 92 can be made of cast iron or forged steel. In some embodiments, the reinforcing element 92 can withstand a pressure of about 835 MPa.

[0097] In some embodiments, the reinforcing element 92 can be surrounded by an elastomeric material configured to strengthen, for example, the connection between the body portion 70 and the reinforcing element 92.

[0098] Known replacement elastomeric endless tracks are typically wider than the original endless track being replaced. This can be problematic because it may require modifying the vehicle. In contrast to known replacement elastomeric endless tracks, the width of the endless track 48 according to the present technology is generally equal to the width of the original endless track 38. The fact that the width of the endless track 48 is generally equal to the width of the original endless track 38 allows the endless track 48 to be installed around the sprocket wheel 32, the road wheel 34, and the idler wheel 36 without modifying the vehicle 20.

[0099] Referring to FIG. 8, an alternative embodiment of the endless track 48 (i.e., the endless track 148) is described herein. Features of the endless track 148 that are similar to those of the endless track 48 are labeled with the same reference numbers and are not described in detail again here.

[0100] The endless tracks 48, 148 are particularly different from each other in that the reinforcing element 192 of the endless track 148 is different from the corresponding reinforcing element 92 of the endless track 48. Since the reinforcing elements 192 are the same as each other, only one reinforcing element 192 will be described here.

[0101] In this embodiment, the reinforcing element 192 is configured to particularly reduce its mass. In particular, the engaging portions 198a, 198b of the reinforcing element 192 are different from the engaging portions 98a, 98b of the reinforcing element 92. Each of the engaging portions 198a, 198b has a front wall portion 199a and a rear wall portion 199b. Inner recesses 199c and outer recesses 199d are defined between the front wall portion 199a and the rear wall portion 199b of each of the engaging portions 198a, 198b. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that more or less than two recesses may be present. The presence of the upper recess 199c and the lower recess 199d reduces the amount of material required to manufacture the reinforcing element 192, and thus reduces the weight of the reinforcing element. This weight reduction can help reduce the vibrations in the endless track 48 during operation, and it can enhance the ride comfort and extend the life of various components of the vehicle 20. Also, the presence of the upper recess 199c and the lower recess 199d provides an interlocking feature that can help secure the reinforcing element 192 to the body portion 70 and to the lugs 86a, 86b.

[0102] Referring to FIG. 9, an explanation is provided here of the replacement of the original sprocket wheel 32 and the original endless track 38 by the sprocket wheel 42 and the endless track 148. Although the explanation refers to the endless track 148, it is understood that the same generally applies to the endless track 48. In other words, the original track assembly 30 is to be replaced with the track assembly 41. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that only one of the original endless track 38 and the original sprocket wheel 32 can be replaced (i.e., the sprocket wheel 42 can be used with an endless track not described herein, or the endless track 148 can be used with a sprocket wheel 42 not described herein).

[0103] First, the original endless track 38 is removed from around the original sprocket wheel 32, load wheel 34, and idler wheel 36, and the original sprocket wheel 32 is operatively disconnected from the axle to which it is connected.

[0104] Next, the sprocket wheel 42 is operatively connected to the corresponding axle of the vehicle 20.

[0105] Next, the endless track 148 is mounted around the sprocket wheel 42, the load wheel 34, and the idler wheel 36. As described above, since the width of the endless track 148 is the same as that of the original endless track 38, the endless track 148 can be mounted around the sprocket wheel 42, the load wheel 34, and the idler wheel 36 without the need to modify the vehicle 20. For example, in the case where the vehicle 20 has a skirt, there will be no need to remove the skirt of the vehicle 20. It should be noted that the similarity in width between the original endless track 38 and the endless track 148 is made possible by the lugs 86a, 86b that extend in the lateral direction rather than the radial direction. Conventionally, the drive lugs extend in the radial direction, and in order to withstand the large loads applied to them, these radially extending drive lugs must extend in the lateral direction, resulting in the conventional elastomeric endless track having a larger width.

[0106] Moreover, the mounting process (i.e., installation) of the endless track 148 is facilitated due to its configuration. In fact, since the inner surface 74 has only one set of protrusions (guide lugs 82), it is relatively easy to adjust the endless track 148 with respect to the sprocket wheel 42, the load wheel 34, and the idler wheel 36. The reason is that there are fewer features that require alignment. In other words, the fact that the lugs 86a, 86b extend in the lateral direction rather than the radial direction (i.e., they extend from the lateral side portions 76, 78 rather than the inner surface 74) facilitates the installation of the endless track 148 around the sprocket wheel 42, the load wheel 34, and the idler wheel 36. The facilitation of the mounting process can lead to an increase in the mounting speed, which can be important in some scenarios, especially in military scenarios (e.g., in military scenarios where the mounting process is carried out in a conflict zone). The mounting process can also be further facilitated by omitting the guide lugs 82.

[0107] When endless track 148 is mounted around sprocket wheel 42, load wheel 34, and idler wheel 36, vehicle 20 can be driven, at least in part, by the engagement between endless track 148 and sprocket wheel 42. An explanation of this engagement is provided herein.

[0108] Continuing to refer to FIG. 9, sprocket wheel 42 and endless track 148 are positioned relative to one another such that the inner surface 74 of endless track 148 contacts sprocket wheel 42. More specifically, side annular rim portions 56a, 56b contact endless track 148 in wheel paths 84a, 84b. The polygonal shape of annular rim portions 56a, 56b can assist in driving endless track 148. Some of guide lugs 82 are received within apertures 55 of central annular rim portion 54, some of engagement elements 46a, 46b are received within channels 81, and some of lugs 86a, 86b are received within grooves 47b. Specifically, lugs 86a, 86b extend across rim 44 so as to be received within grooves 47a, 47b.

[0109] Side radius R S and groove radius R G due to the size difference between (side radius R S is groove radius R GWhen the lugs 86a, 86b (which are larger than [not specified in the original, assumed to be compared with something]) are received into the groove portions 47a, 47b, the inner surfaces of the lugs 86a, 86b are vertically spaced from the bottoms of their respective groove portions 47a, 47b. In other words, the inner surfaces of the lugs 86a, 86b do not contact the bottoms of their respective groove portions 47a, 47b. Accordingly, the endless track 148 is continuously engaged with the sprocket wheel 42 at the side annular rim portions 56a, 56b. This continuous engagement between the endless track 148 and the sprocket wheel 42, and this configuration of the spacing between the lugs 86a, 86b and the groove portions 47a, 47b, can assist in reducing the noise that would otherwise occur when the inner surfaces of the lugs 86a, 86b would abut against the bottoms of the groove portions 47a, 47b. Also, this engagement can assist in reducing vibrations in the endless track 148 and the sprocket wheel 42 and increasing their durability. Moreover, this configuration can assist in maintaining a constant tension throughout the endless track 148 in order to reduce the possibility of the endless track 148 derailing.

[0110] Also, the fact that the lugs 86a, 86b extend from the lateral surfaces 76, 78 rather than the inner surface 74 can assist in reducing the possibility that the endless track 148 will untrack. The reason is that the lateral sides of the main body portion 70 can assist in guiding the endless track 148 by abutting against the lugs 86a, 86b.

[0111] Additionally, debris such as rock and mud is less likely to accumulate on the inner surface 74 of the endless track 148. This is because only one set of protrusions (guide lugs 82) is present. Moreover, rock and mud can be extruded from the inner surface 74 through the groove portions 47a, 47b. This can enhance the riding comfort and help reduce vibrations. This is because debris cannot prevent the engagement between the sprocket wheel 42 and the endless track 148. Another advantage resulting from the lugs 86a, 86b extending from the lateral surfaces 76, 78 is that the possibility of the lugs 86a, 86b being skipped by the groove portions 47a, 47b (also known as "tooth skipping") is reduced.

[0112] Moreover, as described above, the endless track 148 having lugs 86a, 86b extending from the lateral surfaces 76, 78 allows for the use of wider load wheels. This is because the load wheels are not restricted by a smaller load wheel path (for example, in some cases, the load wheels can roll over the lugs 86a, 86b). This can extend the life of the endless track 148 by reducing the pressure applied to the endless track 148 and by reducing heat generation, thereby extending its life.

[0113] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, another aspect of the present technology is described.

[0114] Referring to FIG. 10, an endless track 48' as known in the art is shown. The features of the endless track 48' similar to those of the endless tracks 48, 148 are not described in detail. The endless track 48' has a plurality of outer lugs 80', the plurality of outer lugs 80' extend from the outer surface 72', and the plurality of outer lugs 80' define a plurality of channels 81'. The endless track 48' further has drive lugs 86' that extend from the inner surface 74' (rather than extending from the lateral surface as described above with reference to the endless tracks 48, 148). To assist in making the endless track more flexible so that the endless track can bend around an idler and / or a sprocket wheel, the outer lugs 80' and the drive lugs 86' are longitudinally aligned as is customary in known elastomeric endless tracks. As such, the endless track 48' has a plurality of flexible zones 49', where each of the flexible zones 49' is positioned between two adjacent outer lugs 80' and two adjacent drive lugs 86 (i.e., in the channel 81'). Additionally, the endless track 48' has a plurality of reinforcing elements 92' embedded therein. Each of the reinforcing elements 92' is disposed in one of the inner lugs 80 (i.e., longitudinally offset from the flexible zone 49'). The shape and size of the reinforcing elements 92' can vary for each embodiment. Conventional elastomeric endless tracks are configured to bend (i.e., curve) in the flexible zones 49' (i.e., the channels). Generally, in a conventional elastomeric endless track such as the endless track 48', bending in the flexible zone 49' can be schematically shown as deforming about a virtual vertical axis 49a'. Thus, the endless track 48' has low rigidity in the flexible zones 49' and high rigidity in the drive lugs 86' / outer lugs 80'.

[0115] Referring to FIG. 11, an endless track 248 according to an embodiment of one aspect of the present technology is shown. The features of the endless track 248 similar to those of the endless tracks 48, 148 are not described in detail here.

[0116] In this embodiment, the endless track 248 has a plurality of outer lugs 280, the plurality of outer lugs 280 extend from the outer surface 272, the plurality of outer lugs 280 define a plurality of channels 281, and each of the channels 281 has a central axis 281a. The endless track 248 further has a drive lug 286, and the drive lug 286 extends from the inner surface 74 (it does not extend from the lateral surface as described above with reference to the endless tracks 48, 148, but in some embodiments, it is contemplated that the drive lug 286 can extend from the lateral surface as will be described below). In this embodiment, the endless track 248 has a plurality of reinforcing elements 292, and each of the reinforcing elements 92 is disposed within one of the drive lugs 286 and is adapted to be aligned with the channel 281. In the present embodiment, each of the reinforcing elements 92 is aligned with the central axis 281a of one of the channels 281. The shape and size of the reinforcing element 92 can vary from embodiment to embodiment.

[0117] In this embodiment, the outer lug 280 is longitudinally offset from the drive lug 286. Specifically, the outer lug 280 is longitudinally offset from the drive lug 286 by approximately half of the pitch of the drive lug 286 (pitch P of the drive lug 286 shown in FIG. 11). It is contemplated that the outer lug 280 can be offset more or less from the drive lug 286. As a result of the longitudinal offset of the outer lug 280 relative to the drive lug 286, the rigidity of the endless track 248 becomes more uniform. In fact, offsetting the outer lug 280 from the drive lug 286 reduces the rigidity in the drive lug 286 and increases the rigidity between the two drive lugs 286 (previously referred to as the flexible zone). Also, as a result of the longitudinal offset of the outer lug 280 relative to the drive lug 286, the endless track 248 is configured to bend more globally around the virtual axes 249a, 249b. Each of the virtual axes 249a, 249b is at a predetermined angle with respect to the outer surface 72 and the inner surface 74. In some cases, the virtual axes 249a, 249b are symmetric with respect to the vertical plane extending therebetween.

[0118] Referring to the endless track 48' depicted in FIG. 10, during operation, when one of the load wheels 34 rolls thereon, the endless track 48' does not deform significantly when the load wheel 34 is on the drive lug 86'. This is because the reinforcing element 92' is rigid and does not bend due to the load wheel 34, and also because the outer lug 80' acts as a support above the ground. On the other hand, when the load wheel 34 is on the flexible portion 49', the endless track 48 deforms significantly because there is no support. The endless track 48' deforms particularly around the vertical virtual axis 49a'. The difference in rigidity induces high vibrations in the track system because the load wheel 34 moves vertically alternately by a significant amount.

[0119] Referring to the endless track 248 of the present technology and as depicted in FIG. 11, during operation, when one of the load wheels 34 rolls thereon, the endless track 248 deforms when the load wheel 34 is at the drive lug 286 (i.e., when the load wheel 34 is longitudinally aligned with the drive lug). It should be noted that the endless track 248 deforms more than the endless track 48' when the load wheel 34 is at the drive lug 86'. Specifically, the load wheel 34 is supported by the reinforcing element 292. The load borne by the reinforcing element 292 is transmitted to the cable embedded in the endless track 248, which can limit the degree of deformation of the endless track 248. On the other hand, when the load wheel 34 is between the two longitudinally spaced drive lugs 286, the endless track 248 deforms. It should be noted that the endless track 248 deforms less than the endless track 48' when the load wheel 34 is in the flexible zone 49'. Specifically, the load wheel is supported by the outer lug 280, thereby limiting the deformation of the endless track 248. Due to the outer lug 280, the endless track 248 deforms around the virtual axes 249a, 249b. Since the difference in rigidity in the endless track 248 is reduced, the vibration in the track system is reduced. The reason is that the load wheel 34 moves alternately in the vertical direction by an amount smaller than a substantial amount. In other words, due to the reduction in the difference in rigidity (i.e., in particular, the overall uniformity of rigidity compared to known endless tracks), the rocking movement is reduced.

[0120] It should be understood that the longitudinal misalignment between the drive lug 286 and the outer lug 280 can be applied to other types of track systems. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, the outer lug 80 is longitudinally offset from the drive lugs 86a, 86b, and the drive lugs 86a, 86b extend from the lateral faces 76, 78 of the main body 70. Accordingly, this aspect of the present technology is applicable to various endless tracks. For example, the endless track can be configured to be an internal drive endless track or an external drive endless track.

[0121] Changes and improvements to the above-described embodiments of the present invention can be apparent to those skilled in the art. The foregoing description is intended to be illustrative rather than limiting. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to be limited only by the appended claims.

Description of Reference Numerals

[0122] 20 Military vehicle, armored personnel carrier 22 Frame 24 Engine 30 Track assembly 32 Sprocket wheel 34 Road wheel 36 Idler wheel 38 Metal endless track, original endless track 40 Track assembly conversion kit 41 Track assembly 42 Replacement sprocket wheel, sprocket wheel assembly 44 Rim 46a Engagement element 46b Engagement element 47a Groove 47b Groove 48 Replacement endless track 48' Endless track 49' Flexible zone, flexible part 49a' Virtual vertical axis 50 Sprocket wheel axis 52 Central aperture 54 Central annular rim portion 55 Aperture 56a Side annular rim portion 56b Side annular rim portion 58a Edge annular rim portion 58b Edge annular rim portion 70 Body portion 72 Outer surface 74 Inner surface 76 Lateral surface, lateral side 76a Outermost lateral segment 76b Outermost lateral segment 78 Lateral surface, lateral side 80' Outer lug 81 Channel 81' Channel 81a Central axis 82 Guide lug, central guide lug 84a Wheel path 84b Wheel path 86a Lug, drive lug 86b Lug, drive lug 86' Drive lug 87a Gap 87b Gap, lug 90a Upper layer of reinforcing member, layer of reinforcing cord 90b Lower layer of reinforcing member, layer of reinforcing cord 92 Reinforcing element 92' Reinforcing element 94 Base portion 96 Central reinforcing portion 98a Engaging portion 98b Engaging portion 148 Endless track 192 Reinforcing element 198a Engaging portion 198b Engaging portion 199a Front wall portion 199b Rear wall portion 199c Inner concave portion, upper concave portion 199d Outer concave portion, lower concave portion 248 Endless track 249a Virtual axis 249b Virtual axis 280 Outer lug 281 Channel 281a Central axis 286 Driving lug, reinforcing element 292 Reinforcing element P Pitch R E Engaging element radius R G Groove portion radius R S Side portion radius

Claims

1. A truck assembly for a truck vehicle, A wheel having a rim and a plurality of engaging elements, wherein the plurality of engaging elements extend radially outward from the rim, and the wheel defines a plurality of grooves between them, An endless track that can engage with the wheel, having a reinforced elastomer structure, and The endless track includes, A main body having a longitudinal plane, Outer surface for contact with the ground, The inner surface opposite to the aforementioned outer surface, A first transverse surface extending between the inner surface and the outer surface, A second lateral surface located on the opposite side of the first lateral surface and extending between the inner surface and the outer surface. The main body, A plurality of lugs extending outward from a first lateral side, wherein the plurality of lugs are arranged longitudinally apart from one another along the first lateral surface. Includes, A track assembly in which each of the plurality of lugs is sized and shaped to be received in each of the plurality of grooves, and a given lug of the plurality of lugs extends across the rim of the wheel to be received in each of the grooves.

2. The track assembly according to claim 1, wherein the endless track includes a plurality of guide lugs extending from the inner surface.

3. The track assembly according to claim 2, wherein the plurality of guide lugs are positioned generally parallel to the direction of the longitudinal plane of the main body.

4. The track assembly according to claim 2, wherein the endless track further comprises a plurality of reinforcing elements, one of each of the plurality of reinforcing elements extending across the width of the endless track and having a central reinforcing portion that reinforces one of the plurality of guide lugs.

5. The track assembly according to claim 1, wherein the endless track further comprises a plurality of reinforcing elements, one of each of the plurality of reinforcing elements extending across the width of the endless track.

6. The track assembly according to claim 5, wherein one of each of the plurality of reinforcing elements extends from the first lateral outermost segment of the endless track to the second lateral outermost segment of the endless track.

7. Each of the plurality of reinforcing elements has an engaging portion for reinforcing each of the plurality of lugs and for engaging with the wheel. Each of the aforementioned multiple reinforcing elements has a central reinforcing portion. The track assembly according to claim 5.

8. The track assembly according to claim 1, wherein when one of the plurality of lugs is received in one of the plurality of grooves, the inner surface of the one of the plurality of lugs is spaced apart from the bottom of the groove.

9. The track assembly according to claim 1, wherein the rim has a first annular rim portion and a second annular rim portion, the plurality of engaging elements extend from the second annular rim portion, and when the wheel is operably connected to the endless track, a portion of the inner surface of the endless track is supported on the first annular rim portion.

10. The plurality of engagement elements of the wheel are first plurality of engagement elements, and the plurality of grooves defined between them are first plurality of grooves, and the wheel further includes second plurality of engagement elements, the second plurality of engagement elements extending radially outward from the rim and defining second plurality of grooves between them, The plurality of lugs of the endless track are a first plurality of lugs, and the endless track further includes a second plurality of lugs extending outward from a second lateral side, the second plurality of lugs being arranged longitudinally apart from one another along the second lateral side, Each of the second plurality of lugs is sized and shaped to be received in each of the second plurality of grooves, The track assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein each lug of the second plurality of lugs is sized and shaped to be received in each of the second plurality of grooves, and a given lug of the second plurality of lugs extends across the rim of the wheel to be received in each of the grooves.

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