Track dividers for divided tracks, vehicles having divided tracks, and methods for using track dividers

Abstract

A track segment for a split track includes a first track section, an inner coupling portion, and an outer coupling portion. A first coupling portion is disposed at one end of a body of the track section and defines a first inner section coupling portion, a first outer section coupling portion opposite the first inner section coupling portion, and a first engagement surface configured to abut a second engagement surface of a second coupling portion of a second track section. The inner coupling portion has two inner coupling portion connections configured to respectively connect to the first inner section coupling portion of the first track section and the second inner section coupling portion of the second track section. The outer coupling portion has two outer coupling portion connections configured to respectively connect to the first outer section coupling portion of the first track section and the second outer section coupling portion of the second coupling portion of the second track section.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross-reference This application claims the priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 289,945, titled "Track Segment For A Segmented Track, Vehicle Having Segmented Tracks, And Method Of Using The Same", filed on December 15, 2021, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] This technology relates to an endless track system. More precisely, this technology relates to endless track segments for a segmented endless track and vehicles having segmented endless tracks.

Background Art

[0003] For example, certain vehicles such as agricultural vehicles (e.g., harvesters, combines, tractors, etc.), construction vehicles (e.g., bulldozers, front-end loaders, etc.), all-terrain vehicles (ATV), utility task vehicles (UTV), and military vehicles are used on soft, slippery, and / or uneven (e.g., soil, mud, sand, ice, snow, etc.) ground.

[0004] Conventionally, such vehicles have had large wheels with tires to move the vehicle along the ground. Under certain conditions, such tires can have insufficient traction on certain types of ground, and since these vehicles are generally heavy, the tires can compress the ground in an undesirable way due to the weight of the vehicle.

[0005] To mitigate the aforementioned drawbacks, and to increase traction and distribute the vehicle's weight over a larger area of ​​the ground, track systems have been developed to be used in place of at least some of the wheels and tires on a vehicle. For example, under certain conditions, track systems allow construction vehicles to be used in wet site conditions, in contrast to wheeled vehicles. It has long been recognized that a single, endless elastomer track has a fundamental problem: when damaged, it becomes almost unusable. In fact, when such a track is damaged, it generally needs to be completely replaced with a new elastomer track.

[0006] To mitigate this problem while maintaining the main advantages of elastomer tracks (i.e., reduced noise, reduced weight, and reduced damage to paved roads), elastomer tracks were sometimes made from multiple interconnected elastomer segments instead of a single piece.

[0007] While elastomer segmented tracks have their own inherent advantages, such as the ability to replace only damaged or worn segments, segmented tracks also have their problems.

[0008] For example, each segment is provided with a joint to connect them as a whole. However, the joint creates discontinuities in the elastomer material and longitudinal reinforcement (e.g., reinforcing cables or cords), where failures typically occur. Several segmented tracks have been proposed over the years to mitigate this problem and others, including, for example, Patent Document 1 by St-Pierre et al., published on April 19, 2016, whose disclosure is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0009] However, due to their inherently large size and weight, heavy tracked vehicles need to have tracks that, on the one hand, provide a large contact surface, but on the other hand, are sufficient to wrap around the various wheels of the vehicle (e.g., sprocket wheels, driven wheels, and road wheels) and are flexible enough to absorb some transient deformations.

[0010] As a result, elastomer tracks used in heavy tracked vehicles typically comprise several longitudinally extending track segments, each of which includes one or more substantially rigid sections (typically inner and outer lugs) interconnected by generally shorter, more flexible and pliable sections (which generally bend). Furthermore, to maximize the contact surface of the track, the length of the flexible sections is usually considerably shorter than the length of the rigid sections.

[0011] Furthermore, the connecting elements that interconnect the track segments must have sufficient strength to withstand the longitudinal forces exerted by the vehicle during operation and sufficient durability to prevent premature wear. Despite recent advances in the development of track systems, track segments may fail under harsh conditions and may need to be replaced. Conventional solutions for replacing track segments may involve the use of special tools in the workshop. However, for vehicles in which such track systems may be used on farms, battlefields, or construction sites, it is desirable to provide the ability to quickly repair or replace track segments in the field without special tools. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0012] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent No. 9315225 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0013] Therefore, there is a demand for a tracked system that can alleviate at least some of the aforementioned challenges. [Means for solving the problem]

[0014] According to one aspect of the present technology, a track segment for a segmented track is provided. The track segment comprises a first track section, an inner coupling, and an outer coupling. The first track section includes a section body and a first connecting portion located at a first longitudinal end of the section body. The first connecting portion has a first inner connecting surface defining a first inner section coupling, a first outer connecting surface opposite to the first inner connecting surface defining a first outer section coupling, and a first engaging surface extending between the first inner connecting surface and the first outer connecting surface and configured to abut a second engaging surface of a second connecting portion of a second track section. The inner coupling has a first inner coupling coupling and a second inner coupling coupling, the first inner coupling and the second inner coupling are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction. The first inner coupling connector is configured to connect to the first inner section connector of the first connecting portion of the first track section, and the second inner coupling connector is configured to connect to the second inner section connector of the second connecting portion of the second track section. The outer coupling has a first outer coupling connector and a second outer coupling connector, the first outer coupling connector and the second outer coupling connector are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction. The first outer coupling connector is configured to connect to the first outer section connector of the first connecting portion of the first track section, and the second outer coupling connector is configured to connect to the second outer section connector of the second connecting portion of the second track section.

[0015] In some embodiments, the track division further comprises a second track section.

[0016] In some embodiments, the first track section includes a second connecting portion at the second longitudinal end of the section body opposite the first longitudinal end, and the second connecting portion is configured to connect to a third track section using an auxiliary inner connecting portion and an auxiliary outer connecting portion. In some embodiments, the track section is reinforced with longitudinal reinforcing cables. The first track section includes a cable attachment section at the second longitudinal end of the section body opposite the first longitudinal end, and the cable attachment section is configured to receive the first end of a longitudinal reinforcing cable. The longitudinal reinforcing cable has a second end configured for attachment to another track section.

[0017] In some embodiments, the section body is made from an elastomer material.

[0018] In some embodiments, the section body comprises an inner surface having at least one inner body lug, and an outer surface opposite the inner surface having at least one outer body lug. The inner connecting portion comprises at least one inner connecting portion lug, and the outer connecting portion comprises at least one outer connecting portion lug.

[0019] In some embodiments, at least one inner body lug comprises at least one drive lug and at least one guide lug, and at least one inner connecting lug comprises at least one drive lug and at least one guide lug.

[0020] In some embodiments, at least one outer body lug is provided with at least one ground engagement lug, and at least one outer connecting lug is provided with at least one ground engagement lug.

[0021] In some embodiments, at least one inner body lug and at least one inner connecting lug are spaced apart in the longitudinal direction, and at least one outer body lug and at least one outer connecting lug are spaced apart in the longitudinal direction.

[0022] In some embodiments, the first connection portion and the second connection portion extend laterally along at least about 70% of the width of the first endless track section.

[0023] In some embodiments, each of the first inner section connection portion and the second inner section connection portion forms one of an inner tenon hole and an inner tenon, and each of the first inner connecting portion connection portion and the second inner connecting portion connection portion forms the other of the inner tenon hole and the inner tenon. Each pair including one of the inner tenon holes and one of the inner tenons is configured to form an inner mortise joint when the inner connecting portion is assembled with the first endless track section and the second endless track section.

[0024] In some embodiments, each of the first outer section connection portion and the second outer section connection portion forms one of an outer tenon hole and an outer tenon, and each of the first outer connecting portion connection portion and the second outer connecting portion connection portion forms the other of the outer tenon hole and the outer tenon. Each pair including one of the outer tenon holes and one of the outer tenons is configured to form an outer mortise joint when the outer connecting portion is assembled with the first endless track section and the second endless track section.

[0025] In some embodiments, the first engaging surface has a first anchor fixing portion, and the second engaging surface has a second anchor fixing portion.

[0026] In some embodiments, one of the first anchor fixing portion and the second anchor fixing portion includes a plurality of tenons distributed laterally, and the other of the first anchor fixing portion and the second anchor fixing portion includes a plurality of tenon holes distributed laterally. The plurality of tenon holes distributed laterally and the plurality of tenons distributed laterally are configured to form a plurality of mortise joints distributed laterally when the first endless track section and the second endless track section are assembled.

[0027] In some embodiments, the first connecting portion has a first hook portion, and the second connecting portion has a second hook portion.

[0028] In some embodiments, the first hook portion and the second hook portion are configured to align and temporarily hold the first connection portion of the first track section relative to the second connection portion of the second track section before the inner and outer connection portions connect to the first and second track sections.

[0029] In some embodiments, at least one of the first track section and the second track section further includes fastening means for engaging the inner and outer coupling portions with the first and second track segments.

[0030] In some embodiments, the inner and outer connecting sections are configured to form a rigid connection between the first track section and the second track section.

[0031] In some embodiments, the first connecting portion includes a flexible portion between the first longitudinal end of the section body and the first inner section connecting portion and the first outer section connecting portion, thereby allowing the assembly formed by connecting the inner connecting portion, the outer connecting portion, the first inner section connecting portion and the first outer section connecting portion to bend relative to the section body.

[0032] According to another aspect of the present technology, a track segment for a segmented track is provided. The track segment includes a first track section, at least one second track section, a first inner connector, and a first outer connector. The first track section includes a first section body and a first connector located at a first longitudinal end of the first section body. The first connector includes a first inner connector surface, a first outer connector surface, a first engagement surface, and a first cable attachment section. The first inner connector surface defines a first inner section connector. The first outer connector surface is opposite to the first inner connector surface and defines a first outer section connector. The first engagement surface extends between the first inner connector surface and the first outer connector surface. The first cable attachment section is located at the first longitudinal end of the first section body opposite the first longitudinal end and is configured to receive the end of at least one first longitudinal reinforcing cable. At least one second track section includes a second section body, a second connecting portion located at the second longitudinal end of the second section body, and a third connecting portion located at the third longitudinal end of the third section body. The second connecting portion includes a second inner connecting surface, a second outer connecting surface, and a second engaging surface. The second inner connecting surface defines the second inner section connecting portion. The second outer connecting surface is opposite to the second inner connecting surface and defines the second outer section connecting portion. The second engaging surface extends between the second inner connecting surface and the second outer connecting surface. A third connecting portion located at the third longitudinal end of the third section body includes a third inner connecting surface, a third outer connecting surface, and a third engaging surface. The third inner connecting surface defines a third inner section connecting portion. The third outer connecting surface is opposite to the third inner connecting surface and defines a third outer section connecting portion. The third engaging surface extends between the third inner connecting surface and the third outer connecting surface. The first inner connecting portion comprises a first inner connecting portion and a second inner connecting portion, the first and second inner connecting portions being spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction.The first inner connecting portion is configured to connect to the first inner section connecting portion of the first connecting portion of the first track section, and the second inner connecting portion is configured to connect to the second inner section connecting portion of the second connecting portion of at least one second track section when the first engaging surface of the first track section contacts the second engaging surface of at least one second track section. The first outer connecting portion comprises a first outer connecting portion and a second outer connecting portion, the first outer connecting portion and the second outer connecting portion are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction. The first outer connecting portion is configured to connect to the first outer section connecting portion of the first connecting portion of the first track section, and the second outer connecting portion is configured to connect to the second outer section connecting portion of the second connecting portion of at least one second track section when the first engaging surface of the first track section contacts the second engaging surface of at least one second track section.

[0033] In some embodiments, at least one second track section comprises two or more second track sections, the first of the second track sections being connected to the first track section by a first inner connector and a first outer connector, and the second of the two or more second track sections being connected to the first of the two or more second track sections by a second inner connector and a second outer connector. In some embodiments, the track division further comprises a third track section including a third section body, and a fourth connecting portion located at a fourth longitudinal end of the third section body. The fourth connecting portion has a fourth inner connecting surface, a fourth outer connecting surface, a fourth engaging surface, and a second cable attachment section. The fourth inner connecting surface defines a fourth inner section connecting portion. The fourth outer connecting surface is opposite to the fourth inner connecting surface and defines a fourth outer section connecting portion. The fourth engagement surface extends between the fourth inner connection surface and the fourth outer connection surface. The second cable attachment section is located at the second longitudinal end of the third section body opposite the fourth longitudinal end and is configured to receive a first of at least one second longitudinal reinforcing cable. The third inner connection has a third inner connection connector and a fourth inner connection connector, and the third and fourth inner connection connectors are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction. The third inner connection connector is configured to connect to the third inner section connector of the third connection portion of at least one second track section, and the fourth inner connection connector is configured to connect to the second inner section connector of the second connection portion of at least one second track section when the third engagement surface of at least one second track section abuts against the fourth engagement surface of the third track section. The third outer connecting portion has a third outer connecting portion connector and a fourth outer connecting portion connector, and the third outer connecting portion connector and the fourth outer connecting portion connector are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction.The third outer connecting portion is configured to connect to the third outer section connecting portion of the third connecting portion of at least one second track section, and the fourth outer connecting portion is configured to connect to the second outer section connecting portion of the second connecting portion of at least one second track section when the third engaging surface of at least one second section contacts the fourth engaging surface of the third track section.

[0034] According to another aspect of the present technology, a segmented endless track is provided which includes multiple endless track segments according to the above aspects, or according to one or more of the above aspects and embodiments.

[0035] According to another aspect of the present technology, a vehicle is provided comprising a frame, an engine supported by the frame, and at least two track systems operably connected to the engine, each including a segmented track. According to another aspect of the present technology, a track coupling assembly for segmented tracks is provided. The track coupling assembly comprises a first coupling portion of a first track section, a second coupling portion of a second track section, an inner coupling portion, and an outer coupling portion. The first coupling portion has a first inner coupling surface, a first outer coupling surface, and a first engaging surface extending between the first inner coupling surface and the first outer coupling surface. The second coupling portion has a second inner coupling surface, a second outer coupling surface, and a second engaging surface extending between the second inner coupling surface and the second outer coupling surface. The second engaging surface of the first track section is configured to abut against the first engaging surface of the second track section. The inner connecting portion is configured to connect the first inner connecting surface of the first track section to the second inner connecting surface of the second track section. The outer connecting portion is configured to connect the first outer connecting surface of the first track section to the second outer connecting surface of the second track section. The connection of the inner and outer connecting portions to the first and second connecting portions results in the first engaging surface and the second engaging surface coming into contact, thereby connecting the first track section to the second track section.

[0036] Another aspect of the present technology provides a method for selectively and detachably connecting a first track section of a segmented track to a second track section of the segmented track, wherein the first track section and the second track section each have a first inner section connector and a second inner section connector, and a first outer section connector and a second outer section connector. The method includes aligning the first track section with the second track section; connecting the first inner connector of the inner connector to the first inner section connector of the first track section; connecting the second inner connector of the inner connector to the second inner section connector of the second track section; connecting the first outer connector of the outer connector to the first outer section connector of the first track section; and connecting the second outer connector of the outer connector to the second outer section connector of the second track section.

[0037] In some embodiments, the connection of the first inner connecting section connector to the first inner section connector of the first track section is performed by lateral translation, the connection of the second inner connecting section connector to the second inner section connector of the second track section is performed by lateral translation, the connection of the first outer connecting section connector to the first outer section connector of the first track section is performed by lateral translation, and the connection of the second outer connecting section connector to the second outer section connector of the second track section is performed by lateral translation.

[0038] In some embodiments, the first track section is aligned with the second track section by the first hook portion of the first track section and the second hook portion of the second track section.

[0039] In some embodiments, the inner and outer connectors are fixed to the first and second track sections so as to be fixed to the first and second track sections generally in a lateral direction.

[0040] In some embodiments, the connection between the first track section and the second track section is performed manually.

[0041] In some embodiments, the first track section and the second track section are connected without the need for special tools.

[0042] According to another aspect of the present technology, a track section for a segmented track is provided. The track section comprises a section body made of an elastomer material and a connecting assembly. The section body comprises an inner surface having at least one inner lug, an outer surface opposite the inner surface having at least one outer lug, a first body end, and a second body end opposite the first body end.

[0043] The first connecting portion is configured to connect to the first body end of the section body and to connect to the second connecting portion of the paired track section. The first connecting portion defines an inner joining surface including an inner section connecting portion, an outer joining surface opposite to the inner joining surface including an outer section connecting portion, and a first engaging surface extending from the inner joining surface to the outer joining surface. The connecting assembly comprises an inner connecting portion and an outer connecting portion. The inner connecting portion has an inner lug portion and an inner connecting portion opposite the inner lug portion that is complementary to the inner section connecting portion of the first connecting portion of the track section and the second inner section connecting portion of the paired track section. The outer connecting portion has an outer lug portion and an outer connecting portion opposite the outer lug portion that is complementary to the outer section connecting portion of the first connecting portion of the track section and the second outer section connecting portion of the paired track section. The inner and outer connecting portions are configured such that when the first engaging surface of the track section abuts the second engaging surface of the paired track section, they connect via lateral translation to (i) the inner section connecting portion of the first connecting portion of the track section and the second inner section connecting portion of the paired track section, and (ii) the outer section connecting portion of the first connecting portion of the track section and the second outer section connecting portion of the paired track section, thereby forming a rigid joint between the first and second connecting portions.

[0044] In some embodiments, the first and second connecting portions extend for at least 80% of the width of the section body.

[0045] In some embodiments, at least one inner lug of the section body and the inner lug portion of the inner connecting portion are drive lugs or guide lugs.

[0046] In some embodiments, at least one inner lug of the section body and the outer lug portion of the outer connecting portion are grounding lugs.

[0047] In some embodiments, the inner connecting portion includes a first metal portion, and the inner lug portion is connected to the first metal portion.

[0048] In some embodiments, the outer connecting portion includes a second metal portion, and the outer lug portion is connected to the second metal portion.

[0049] In some embodiments, the first connection portion differs from the second connection portion.

[0050] In some embodiments, the first and second connecting portions each further include complementary hook portions configured to temporarily align and hold the first and second connecting portions together during the installation of the connecting assembly.

[0051] In some embodiments, the inner section connections of the first and second connection portions are configured to form one or more dovetail joints.

[0052] In some embodiments, the connecting assembly further comprises at least one error-prevention feature.

[0053] In some embodiments, at least one of the error-prevention features comprises a mortise formed in one of the inner and outer connecting portions, a tenon formed in the other of the inner and outer connecting portions, and corresponding tenons and mortises formed in the first and second connecting portions, thereby preventing the outer connecting portion from being installed in the inner section connecting portion and the inner connecting portion from being installed in the outer section connecting portion.

[0054] In some embodiments, at least one error-preventing feature is formed in the first and second connection portions of the track section by tapering the mortise laterally on one of the first and second engagement surfaces and tapering the tenon laterally on the other of the first and second engagement surfaces, in order to prevent the inner or outer connection portion from sliding in the wrong direction.

[0055] In some embodiments, the coupling assembly further includes fixing means for selectively preventing lateral translation of the inner and outer couplings relative to the track section.

[0056] In some embodiments, the fastening means includes a separate component.

[0057] In some embodiments, the fastening means are integrated within the track section and at the inner and outer coupling portions.

[0058] In some embodiments, a first engagement surface further includes a first anchor fixing portion, and a second engagement surface further includes a second anchor fixing portion complementary to the first anchor fixing portion.

[0059] In some embodiments, the anchor fixing portion is configured to form a dovetail joint.

[0060] According to another aspect of the present technology, a segmented track for a tracked vehicle is provided, comprising a plurality of track sections according to the above-described aspect, or one or more of the above-described aspects and embodiments. The track sections are joined end to end to form a closed loop.

[0061] According to another aspect of the present technology, a vehicle is provided that is equipped with the segmented track of the above-described aspect.

[0062] Another aspect of the present technology provides a method for releasably joining track sections, wherein each track section has an inner section connector and an outer section connector. The method includes the steps of: aligning the track sections end-to-end; engaging the inner connector with each pair of inner section connectors of adjacent track sections via lateral translation; and engaging the outer connector with each pair of outer section connectors of adjacent track sections via lateral translation.

[0063] In some embodiments, each pair of track sections is temporarily aligned by a hook portion.

[0064] In some embodiments, the further step includes fixing the lateral movement of the inner and outer connecting portions using fixing means.

[0065] In some embodiments, sections are connected to each other without the need for special tools.

[0066] According to another aspect of the present technology, a track segment for a segmented track is provided. The track segment includes a first track section having a section body and a first connecting portion located at one end of the section body. The first connecting portion defines a first inner section connecting portion, a first outer section connecting portion opposite to the first inner section connecting portion, and a first engaging surface configured to abut against a second engaging surface of a second connecting portion of a second track section. The track segment also includes an inner connecting portion and an outer connecting portion. The inner connecting portion has a first inner connecting portion connecting portion and a second inner connecting portion connecting portion configured to connect to a first inner section connecting portion of the first track section and a second inner section connecting portion of the second track section, respectively. The outer connecting portion has a first outer connecting portion connecting portion and a second outer connecting portion connecting portion configured to connect to a first outer section connecting portion of the first track section and a second outer section connecting portion of a second connecting portion of the second track section, respectively.

[0067] For a better understanding of this technology, as well as other aspects and further features of this technology, refer to the following description used in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0068] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of a vehicle equipped with pairs of segmented tracks. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a partial perspective view of the outside of the infinite track division of the divided infinite track. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is a partial perspective view of the inside of the infinite track division of the divided infinite track. [Figure 4] These are partial plan views of the inner surfaces of the two parts of the endless track division shown in Figures 2 and 3, without plates and fasteners. [Figure 5] This diagram shows the schematic and functional aspects of a section of an infinite track division according to an embodiment of this technology. [Figure 6]Figure 5 shows a schematic and functional diagram of a section of an endless track division that interconnects with another section of the endless track division by using an inner and outer connecting section according to an embodiment of this technology. [Figure 7] This is a perspective view of the outer surface of an endless track division comprising two sections according to an embodiment of this technology. [Figure 8] This is a side elevation view of the infinite track segment of Figure 7 according to an embodiment of this technology. [Figure 9] Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view of an infinite track segment illustrating the first interconnection technique according to an embodiment of this technology. [Figure 10] Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view of an infinite track segment illustrating a second interconnection technique according to an embodiment of this technology. [Figure 11] This is a detailed diagram of the second interconnection technique according to an embodiment of this technology. [Figure 12] This is a detailed diagram of the second interconnection technique according to an embodiment of this technology. [Figure 13] This is a plan view of the outer surface of an infinite track segment comprising three sections according to an embodiment of this technology. [Figure 14] This is a perspective view detail of the snap-fit ​​connection between the inner coupling section and the connection section of the continuous track section. [Figure 15] This is a detailed diagram of the hook portion that can be used for temporary alignment of two tracked sections. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0069] It should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly stated in this specification, the drawings are not to scale.

[0070] In the context of this specification, unless otherwise explicitly stated, terms such as "first," "second," and "third" are used as adjectives solely for the purpose of distinguishing between distinct nouns, and not for the purpose of describing specific relationships between these nouns.

[0071] It should be noted that, as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” refer to multiple objects unless the context explicitly indicates otherwise.

[0072] As used herein, the term “about” in the context of a given value or range means a value or range that is within 20%, preferably within 10%, and more preferably within 5% of the given value or range.

[0073] As used herein, the term “and / or” is understood to mean that each of two specific features or components is a specific disclosure, either together with or without the other feature or component. For example, “A and / or B” is understood to mean (i) A, (ii) B, and (iii) A and B, each as if they were described separately herein.

[0074] Each implementation of this technology has at least one of the aforementioned purposes and / or embodiments, but not necessarily all of them. It should be understood that some embodiments of this technology resulting from attempts to achieve the purposes mentioned above may not satisfy these purposes and / or may satisfy other purposes not expressly stated herein.

[0075] Additional and / or alternative features, embodiments, and advantages of implementations of this technology will become apparent from the following description, accompanying drawings, and accompanying claims.

[0076] This disclosure is not limited in its application to the structural details and arrangement of components described below or shown in the drawings. Other embodiments of this disclosure are possible and can be practiced or implemented in various ways. The expressions and terms used herein are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. The use herein of “including,” “comprising,” “having,” “containing,” “involving,” and variations thereof is intended to include not only the items listed thereafter but also additional items of their choice. In the following description, the same reference numerals refer to similar elements.

[0077] In the context of the following description, “longitudinal direction” means the direction parallel to the direction of the vehicle’s forward movement, and “lateral direction” means the direction perpendicular to the direction of the vehicle’s movement. In the same context, “outward” or “outer” means the direction away from the longitudinal center plane of the track system, and “inward” or “inner” means toward the longitudinal center plane. Also in the context of the following description, in the longitudinal center plane of the track system in a plane parallel to a flat, horizontal ground, “lateral” means the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal center plane in a plane parallel to a flat, horizontal ground, and “generally vertical” means the direction included in the longitudinal center plane along the height direction of the track system generally perpendicular to a flat, horizontal ground. Furthermore, the term “wheel assembly” may include, where applicable, all the necessary structures (bearing structures, pins, axles, and other components) for pivoting / rotating the structure / wheel around the axle. In the attached description and figures, the track system is configured to be mounted on the right and left sides of the vehicle chassis. In the context of this technology, the requirement for a wheel assembly to be "connected at least indirectly" includes not only wheel assemblies directly connected to at least one wheel bearing frame member, but also wheel assemblies connected to a frame member supported by a wheel through an intermediate structure, whether it be an intermediate frame member or something else.

[0078] This technology will be presented in the context of a specific application of segmented tracks mounted on military vehicles. However, it should be understood that this example is not limiting to the technology. The disclosed segmented track technology can be applied to a variety of other types of tracked vehicles, including, but is not limited to, agricultural vehicles (e.g., harvesters, combines, tractors, etc.), construction vehicles (e.g., bulldozers, front-end loaders, etc.), all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), and utility vehicles (UTVs).

[0079] Referring to Figure 1, the segmented track 100 is shown mounted on the vehicle 10. In the present non-limiting example, the vehicle 10 is an armored personnel carrier, and on each side thereof, it comprises a wheel assembly including a sprocket wheel 20 mounted on the front end of the vehicle 10, a driven wheel 30 mounted on the rear end of the vehicle 10, and several road wheels 40 mounted along the length of the vehicle 10.

[0080] The sprocket wheel 20 is generally configured to engage with the segmented track 100 and to transmit power from the engine (not shown) of the vehicle 10 to the segmented track 100. The driven wheel 30 is configured to pull and guide the segmented track 100 at the rear end of the vehicle 10. Finally, in the illustrated example, the road wheel 40 is generally configured to guide the lower running portion of the segmented track 100 that engages with the ground during use.

[0081] In Figure 1, arrow 50 indicates the direction of forward movement of vehicle 10.

[0082] The divided endless track 100 comprises at least one, but typically several, endless track divisions 200, whose ends are connected to each other to form an endless loop, as best shown in Figure 1.

[0083] Referring here to Figures 2 and 3, a conventional track segment 200 is shown in more detail. Each track segment 200 is made of a reinforced elastomer material and generally comprises a base body or carcass 205 having an outer ground engagement surface 300 and an inner wheel engagement surface 400.

[0084] The main body 205 defines a first end 207 and a second opposite end 209, and a first side edge 211 and a second opposite side edge 213. To make it clear, the track divisions 200 can be of various lengths, as shown by the dashed lines in Figures 2 and 3. Each track division 200 comprises one or more longitudinally aligned rigid track sections 202, with flexible track sections 204 positioned between each pair of adjacent track sections 202, connecting each pair.

[0085] The outer surface 300 is provided with one or more tread lugs or traction lugs 310 (collectively referred to as outer lugs), and, though not limited to, for example, each rigidity track section 202 is provided with one traction lug 310. The traction lugs 310 are configured to engage with the ground on which the vehicle 10 operates. The traction lugs 310 of the track section 200 generally define the tread pattern.

[0086] The inner surface 400 comprises one or more rows of longitudinally aligned drive lugs and / or guide lugs (collectively referred to as inner lugs). In this non-limiting example, each track section 202 comprises, in the inner surface 400, one guide lug 410 substantially centrally located and two drive lugs 420 and 430 substantially located along the side edges 211 and 213 of the track section 200, respectively. In certain embodiments, it is understood that the centrally located guide lug 410 is the drive lug and the drive lugs 420 and 430 are the guide lugs. In some other embodiments, the drive lugs 420 and 430 can be omitted, and therefore the centrally located guide lug 410 acts as both the drive lug and the guide lug.

[0087] Guide lugs 410 are generally configured to guide the segmented track 100 across various wheels 20, 30, and 40 of the vehicle 10 and to prevent it from derailing. Guide lugs 410 are typically not actively driven and are not engaged by the sprocket wheels 20. For those parts, drive lugs 420 and 430 are configured to be driven and engaged by the sprocket wheels 20 of the vehicle 10. It is understood that different configurations of engagement between the segmented track 100 and the sprocket wheels 20 are also possible.

[0088] In the examples of Figures 2 and 3, the rows of guide lugs 410 and the rows of drive lugs 420 and 430 are spaced laterally apart to define wheel paths 440 and 450 for the different wheels 20, 30, and 40 of the vehicle 10.

[0089] In other examples, there may be more or fewer rows of drive lugs 420 and 430, and the rows of drive lugs 420 and 430 may be located elsewhere along the width of the track segment 200. Similarly, in other examples, there may be more than two rows of guide lugs 410, and the rows of guide lugs 410 may be located elsewhere along the width of the track segment 200.

[0090] Furthermore, in this example, the guide lug 410 is typically not actively driven by the sprocket wheel 20, nor is it engaged by the sprocket wheel 20. However, in other examples, the guide lug 410 may be driven by the sprocket wheel 20. In such examples, the guide lug 410 acts as both a guide lug and a drive lug.

[0091] The track segment 200 also includes a first connecting member 250 located at the first end 207 and a second connecting member 270 located at the second end 209.

[0092] As shown in the figure, the first connecting member 250 comprises five outwardly extending tail portions 256 spaced apart by four recesses 258. Complementarily, the second connecting member 270 defines five recesses 278 configured to receive the five tail portions 256 of the adjacent track segment 200, and four tail portions 276 configured to be received in the four recesses 258 of the adjacent track segment 200.

[0093] As best illustrated in Figure 4, the joining members 250 and 270 are configured to engage with each other and, further, to form a joint 290 of common rigidity when fastened together using plates and fasteners such as bolts (not shown) inserted into, for example, openings 257 in the first joining member 250 and 277 in the second joining member 270. During operation, as the vehicle 10 moves, shear and bending forces are applied to these bolts, and these forces eventually cause the bolts to fail.

[0094] Generally speaking, a track division is modified from the configurations shown in Figures 2 to 4, and when, for example, a portion of the divided track 100 needs to be repaired or replaced, the use of a linkage configuration provides track sections that can be selectively connected to and disconnected from one another. The modified track division typically comprises a first track section and a plurality of track sections arranged longitudinally. Each track section comprises a section body and at least one connecting portion located at one end of the section body. Another connecting portion may be located at the opposite end of the section body, except when the track section is at the end of the track division. The connecting portion has an inner section connecting portion, an outer section connecting portion opposite to the inner section connecting portion, and an engaging surface configured to abut against the engaging surface of another connecting portion of another track section. Two adjacent track sections having abutting engaging surfaces can be connected using the inner and outer connecting portions of the linkage configuration. The inner connecting portion has two inner connecting portions configured to each abut against the inner section connecting portions of two adjacent track sections. The outer coupling section has two outer coupling section connectors, each configured to connect to the outer section connectors of two adjacent track sections. In some embodiments, the entire segmented track 100 may be constructed using these track sections, which are assembled into track segments, with their ends joined together to form a closed loop. In the same or other embodiments, the vehicle 10 may be fitted with a segmented track 100 constructed entirely or partially using these track sections.

[0095] In one embodiment, a repair kit for the segmented track 100 may comprise one inner connector, one outer connector, and one track section. If a portion of the segmented track 100 breaks while in the field, one or more repair kits can be used to replace the damaged part of the segmented track 100, for example, one section, two sections, or all sections of the track segment.

[0096] Figure 5 is a schematic and functional diagram of a section of a track segment according to an embodiment of the present technology. Figure 6 is a schematic and functional diagram of a section of the track segment of Figure 5 interconnecting with another section of the track segment by the use of an inner and outer connector, according to an embodiment of the present technology. Referring to Figures 5 and 6, arrow 50 indicates the direction of forward movement of the vehicle 10 on which the segmented track 100 is mounted, and the track segment for the segmented track 100 comprises a first track section 500, an inner connector 540, and an outer connector 550. The first track section 500 comprises a section body 502 and a first connecting portion 516 located at a first longitudinal end 512 of the section body 502. The first connecting portion 516 may extend laterally along at least about 70%, at least about 75%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, or at least about 90% of the width of the first track section 500. In some cases, the first connecting portion 516 may extend laterally along at least about 70% to about 90% of the width of the first track section 500.

[0097] The first track section 500 may include a second connecting portion 518 located at the opposite second longitudinal end 514 of the section body 502. The first connecting portion 516 has a first inner connecting surface 520 defining a first inner section connecting portion 524, a first outer connecting surface 528 opposite to the first inner connecting surface 520 defining a first outer section connecting portion 532, and a first engaging surface 536 extending between the first inner connecting surface 520 and the first outer connecting surface 528 and configured to abut against a second engaging surface 538 of the second connecting portion 518 of the second track section 500. The inner connecting portion 540 has a first inner connecting portion 546 and a second inner connecting portion 548 mounted on the inner connecting portion 544, the first inner connecting portion 546 and the second inner connecting portion 548 are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction, the first inner connecting portion 546 is configured to connect to the first inner section connecting portion 524 of the first connecting portion 516 of the first track section 500, and the second inner connecting portion 548 is configured to connect to the second inner section connecting portion 526 of the second connecting portion 518 of the second track section 500. The outer coupling section 550 has a first outer coupling section coupling section 556 and a second outer coupling section coupling section 558 mounted on the outer connecting section 554, the first outer coupling section coupling section 556 and the second outer coupling section coupling section 558 being spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction, the first outer coupling section coupling section 556 being configured to connect to the first outer section coupling section 532 of the first connecting section 516 of the first track section 500, and the second outer coupling section coupling section 558 being configured to connect to the second outer section coupling section 534 of the second connecting section 518 of the second track section 500. The inner coupling section 540 and the outer coupling section 550 form a rigid connection between the first track section 500 and the second track section 500 when assembled.

[0098] In an embodiment as shown in Figure 5, where the first track section 500 includes a second connecting portion 518, the second connecting portion 518 is configured to connect to a third track section 500 using an auxiliary inner connecting portion 540 and an auxiliary outer connecting portion 550. Like the first connecting portion 516, the second connecting portion 518 may extend laterally along at least about 70%, at least about 75%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, or at least about 90% of the width of the first track section 500. In some cases, the first connecting portion may extend laterally along at least about 70% to about 90% of the width of the first track section 500.

[0099] Figures 5 and 6 show embodiments in which section body 502 includes an inner surface 504 having at least one inner body lug 506, and an outer surface 508 opposite the inner surface 504, having at least one outer body lug 510. Similarly, inner coupling portion 540 includes at least one inner coupling lug 542 mounted on inner connecting portion 544, and outer coupling portion 550 includes at least one outer coupling lug 552 mounted on outer connecting portion 554. At least one inner body lug 506 may have at least one inner lug, and at least one inner coupling lug 542 may have at least one inner lug. At least one outer body lug 510 may have at least one ground engagement lug, and at least one outer coupling lug 552 may have at least one ground engagement lug. Because they are spaced apart in the longitudinal direction, the inner body lug 506 and inner coupling lug 542 can act as guide lug and drive lug, respectively. Similarly, because they are spaced apart in the longitudinal direction, the outer body lug 510 and the outer connecting lug 552 can form a thread pattern for the divided endless track 100.

[0100] In a non-limiting embodiment, the section body 502 and the first connecting portion 516 may be made from an elastomer material. In the same embodiment or another non-limiting embodiment, the inner connecting portion 544 of the inner connecting portion 540 and / or the outer connecting portion 554 of the outer connecting portion 550 may include metal parts, and the inner connecting portion lugs 542 and / or the outer connecting portion lugs 552 may be connected to these metal parts.

[0101] Figure 7 is an external perspective view of a track section comprising two sections according to an embodiment of the present technology. In Figure 7, two track sections 500 are assembled using an inner connector 540 (shown transparently) and an outer connector 550. One of the inner body lugs 506 and the outer connector lug 552 is clearly visible, while the inner connector lug 542 is not clearly visible because the inner connector 540 is shown transparently.

[0102] In the embodiment shown in Figure 7, the track section is reinforced with longitudinal reinforcing cables 560. Some of the track sections 500 have cable attachment sections at a second longitudinal end (or end) 562 of the section body 502 opposite a first longitudinal end 512, as shown in Figure 7. For example, an array of cables 560 can be attached to the second longitudinal end 562 of the track section 500. The cable attachment section is where the first end of the longitudinal reinforcing cable is received in the track section 500. The longitudinal reinforcing cable has a second end (not shown) for attachment of another track section to the track section 500.

[0103] Figure 8 is a side elevation view of the track section of Figure 7 according to an embodiment of the present technology. The inner connector 540 and outer connector 550 are shown transparent to reveal the metal components of the inner connector 544 and outer connector 554 to which the inner connector lugs 542 and / or outer connector lugs 552 can be connected. The connectors 516 and 518 may each have a flexible portion between the longitudinal ends 512, 514 of the section body 502 and the inner connectors 524, 526 and outer section connectors 532, 534, respectively, to allow the assembly formed by connecting the inner connector 540, outer connector 550, inner section connectors 524, 526 and outer section connectors 532, 534 to bend relative to each section body 502 of the track section 500.

[0104] Figure 9 is an exploded perspective view of the track section of Figure 7, showing a first interconnection technique according to an embodiment of the present technology. As shown in Figure 9, in the embodiment, each of the first connecting portion 516 and the second connecting portion 518 has a mortise 572 formed on its outer surface 528, 530, and the inner connecting portion 540 forms a pair of tenons 570. Although not shown, each of the first connecting portion 516 and the second connecting portion 518 has a mortise 520, 522 on its inner surface, and the outer connecting portion forms a pair of tenons. When the inner connecting portion 540 and the outer connecting portion 550 are assembled with the first and second track sections 500, dovetail joints may be formed between each pair, which include one of the mortises and one of the tenons. In the non-limiting example of Figure 9, the inner connector 540 has a pair of tenons 570 configured to slidably fit into corresponding pairs of mortises (not shown) in the first inner section connector 524 and the second inner section connector 526. Similarly, the outer connector 550 has a pair of tenons (not shown) configured to slidably fit into corresponding pairs of mortises 572 in the first outer section connector 532 and the second outer section connector 534. It is also conceivable to form tenons in the first inner section connector 524 and the second inner section connector 526, and to form mortises in the inner connector 540 and the outer connector 550. In the embodiment, the tenons and corresponding mortises can be configured to ensure that the inner connector 540 and the outer connector 550 are tightly connected to the first and second track sections by a press-fit mechanism, and that once assembled, accidental relative movement between these parts is prevented. Furthermore, with corresponding tenons and mortises formed in the first connecting portion 516 and the second connecting portion 518, it is also conceivable that the mortises can be formed in one of the inner connecting portion 540 and the outer connecting portion 550, and the tenons can be formed in the other of the inner connecting portion 540 and the outer connecting portion 550. This makes it possible to form an error-prevention feature that prevents the inner connecting portion 540 from being installed on the outside and the outer connecting portion from being installed on the inside.Another error-prevention feature may be formed by tapering the mortise and tenon laterally to prevent attempts to slide the inner connector 540 or the outer connector 550 in the wrong (i.e., opposite) direction at the first connecting portion 516 and the second connecting portion 518 of the track section 500. Other configurations are also possible for forming a mechanical interlock connection between the inner connector 540 and the two track sections 500.

[0105] The embodiment in Figure 9 also shows that the first engaging surface 536 has a first anchor fixing portion 574, and the second engaging surface 538 has a corresponding second anchor fixing portion 576. The first anchor fixing portion 574 and the second anchor fixing portion 576 can be engaged by sliding the first engaging surface 536 and the second engaging surface 538 against each other.

[0106] Figure 9 also shows fastening means, including a U-shaped plate 580 and bolts 582, which can be attached to the assembly formed by the two track sections 500, the inner and outer connects 540 and the outer connects 550, to engage the inner and outer connects 540 and the outer connects 550 with recesses 584 (Figure 8) in the first and second track sections when assembled. In embodiments such as that shown in Figure 14, the U-shaped plate 580 and bolts 582 may be omitted, as a biasing lip 586 may be integrally formed at the end of the inner or outer connect, and the biasing lip 586 is configured to engage in a snap-fit ​​connection with a recess 588 integrally formed near the ends of the first and second connects 516 and the second connect 518. Recess 588 may possibly be the same as recess 584. Alternatively, biasing lips may be formed at the ends of the first and second connecting portions 516 and 518, and recesses at the ends of the inner or outer connecting portion 540 or 550, to enable the formation of snap-fit ​​connections for maintaining the inner or outer connecting portion 540 or 550 in a predetermined position at the first and second connecting portions 518. In the same or another embodiment, a fastening means constructed by any one of these techniques may be mounted on each of the opposite ends of the assembly. Other types of fastening means are also conceivable.

[0107] The segmented track 100 can be very heavy. To facilitate the assembly of the track section 500, the inner connector 540, and the outer connector 550, the first connector 516 may have a first hook portion 590, and the second connector 518 may have a second hook portion 592. Figure 15 provides details of the first hook portion 590 and the second hook portion 592. The hook portions 590 and 592 can be positioned at both ends of the first connector 516 and the second connector 518. The first hook portion 590 and the second hook portion 592 are complementary and can be configured to align the first connector 516 of the first track section 500 with the second connector 518 of the second track section 500 before the inner connector 540 and the outer connector 550 connect to the first and second track sections 500. The engagement of the first hook portion 590 with the second hook portion 592 temporarily holds the first and second track sections 500 together in a aligned position while the inner connector 540 and outer connector 550 are installed. This temporary support of the first and second track sections 500 in a aligned position facilitates the insertion of the inner connector 540 and outer connector 550 into the first connector 516 and the second connector 518, making the process more time-efficient. Once assembly is complete, the first hook portion 590 and the second hook portion 592 are still engaged with each other but no longer support the first and second track sections 500. It should be noted that the first connector 516 may have a hook portion similar to that of the hook portion 592, while the second connector 518 may have a hook portion similar to that of the hook portion 590. Different hook portions 590 or 592 may be formed at opposite ends of the first connecting portion 516 and the second connecting portion 518, respectively.

[0108] Figure 10 is an exploded perspective view of the track section of Figure 7, showing a second interconnection technique according to an embodiment of the present technology. Figures 11 and 12 are detailed views of the second interconnection technique according to an embodiment of the present technology. In the embodiments of Figures 10, 11, and 12, one of the first anchor fixing portion 574 and the second anchor fixing portion 576 includes a plurality of laterally distributed tenons, and the other of the first anchor fixing portion 574 and the second anchor fixing portion 576 includes a plurality of laterally distributed mortises. The plurality of laterally distributed mortises and the plurality of laterally distributed tenons form a plurality of laterally distributed mechanical interlocking joints (e.g., dovetail joints) when the first and second track sections 500 are assembled. In this non-limiting embodiment, the two anchor fixing portions 574 and 576 are mirror images of each other, but other configurations are possible. Embodiments having the first and second interconnection techniques provide particularly rigid joints between the inner and outer interconnects 540 and the first and second track sections 500, with excellent track durability in harsh use / vehicle applications.

[0109] Figure 13 is a plan view of the outer surface of a tracked section comprising three sections according to an embodiment of the present technology. The tracked section comprises a first tracked section 500a, at least one second tracked section 500b (one second tracked section 500b is shown), and a third tracked section 500c. The tracked section may comprise the first tracked section 500a and the third tracked section 500c at both ends, and a plurality of interconnected second tracked sections 500b between them. All tracked sections 500a, 500b, and 500c are constructed in the same manner, except for the first tracked section 500a and the third tracked section 500c, which each have a connecting section such as 516 or 518 at one longitudinal end and a cable attachment section 560 at the opposite longitudinal end (or terminal) 562. One inner connector 540 and one outer connector 550 are used to connect each pair of adjacent track sections 500a, 500b, and 500c.

[0110] Without limiting the scope of this technology, the first track section 500 of the segmented track 100 may be selectively and detachably connected to the second track section 500 of the segmented track 100 in the following manner. The first track section is aligned with the second track section in an end-to-end configuration. The first track section 500 can be aligned with the second track section 500 by engaging the first hook portion 590 of the first track section 500 with the second hook portion 592 of the second track section 500. Thus, the first and second track sections 500 are temporarily held together in an end-to-end, aligned configuration, which facilitates subsequent assembly operations. The first inner coupling portion 546 of the inner coupling portion 540 is connected to the first inner section coupling portion 524 of the first track section 500. The second inner coupling section connector 548 of the inner coupling section 540 is connected to the second inner section connector 526 of the second track section 500. The first outer coupling section connector 556 of the outer coupling section 550 is connected to the first outer section connector 532 of the first track section. The second outer coupling section connector 558 of the outer coupling section 550 is connected to the second outer section connector 534 of the second track section 500. The connection of the first inner coupling section connector 546 to the first inner section connector 524 of the first track section 500 can be made by lateral translation. Similarly, the connection of the second inner coupling section connector 548 to the second inner section connector 526 of the first track section 500 can be made by lateral translation. The same applies to the connection of the first outer coupling connector 556 to the first outer section connector 532 of the first track section 500, and the connection of the second outer coupling connector 558 to the second outer section connector 534 of the first track section 500, all of which can be performed by lateral translation. The inner coupling 540 and the outer coupling 550 can be secured to the first and second track sections 500 using fastening means so as to be fixed to the first and second track sections 500 generally in a lateral direction.The connection or disconnection of the first and second track sections 500 can be performed manually without the need for special tools.

[0111] It should be noted that some of the above actions are optional, and the order of some of these actions can be changed.

[0112] Clause The first clause: A track division for a divided track, the track division comprising a first track section, the first track section comprising a section body and a first connecting portion located at a first longitudinal end of the section body, the first connecting portion comprising a first inner connecting surface defining a first inner section connecting portion, a first outer connecting surface opposite the first inner connecting surface defining a first outer section connecting portion, and a first engaging surface extending between the first inner connecting surface and the first outer connecting surface and configured to abut a second engaging surface of a second connecting portion of a second track section, the track division further comprising an inner connecting portion having a first inner connecting portion and a second inner connecting portion, the first inner connecting portion and the second inner connecting portion being longitudinal An endless track section comprising: an inner connecting section spaced apart from each other, wherein the first inner connecting section is configured to connect to the first inner section connecting section of the first connecting portion of the first endless track section, and the second inner connecting section is configured to connect to the second inner section connecting section of the second connecting portion of the second endless track section; and an outer connecting section having a first outer connecting section and a second outer connecting section, wherein the first outer connecting section and the second outer connecting section are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction, the first outer connecting section is configured to connect to the first outer section connecting section of the first connecting portion of the first endless track section, and the second outer connecting section is configured to connect to the second outer section connecting section of the second connecting portion of the second endless track section.

[0113] Second clause: A track division as described in the first clause, further comprising a second track section.

[0114] Third clause: The track division according to the first or second clause, wherein the first track section comprises a second connecting portion at the second longitudinal end of the section body opposite to the first longitudinal end, the second connecting portion being configured to connect to a third track section using an auxiliary inner connecting portion and an auxiliary outer connecting portion.

[0115] Fourth clause: A track segment according to the first or second clause, wherein the track segment is reinforced with longitudinal reinforcing cables, and the first track section includes a cable attachment section at a second longitudinal end of the section body opposite to the first longitudinal end, the cable attachment section being configured to receive a first end of a longitudinal reinforcing cable, and the longitudinal reinforcing cable having a second end configured for attachment to another track segment.

[0116] Article 5: The section body is made of elastomer material, and is an infinite track segment as described in any one of Articles 1 through 4.

[0117] The sixth clause: The track division according to any one of the first to fifth clauses, wherein the section body comprises an inner surface having at least one inner body lug, and an outer surface opposite to the inner surface having at least one outer body lug, the inner connecting portion having at least one inner connecting portion lug, and the outer connecting portion having at least one outer connecting portion lug.

[0118] Clause 7: The track segment according to Clause 6, wherein at least one inner body lug comprises at least one drive lug and at least one guide lug, and at least one inner connecting lug comprises at least one drive lug and at least one guide lug.

[0119] Clause 8: A tracked segment according to Clause 6 or 7, wherein at least one outer body lug comprises at least one ground engagement lug, and at least one outer connecting lug comprises at least one ground engagement lug.

[0120] Clause 9: A track division according to any one of Clauses 6 to 8, wherein at least one inner body lug and at least one inner connecting lug are spaced apart longitudinally, and at least one outer body lug and at least one outer connecting lug are spaced apart longitudinally.

[0121] Clause 10: The first and second connecting sections are track divisions as described in any one of Clauses 1 through 9, extending laterally along at least about 70% of the width of the first track section.

[0122] Clause 11: A track section division according to any one of Clauses 1 to 10, wherein each of the first inner section connector and the second inner section connector forms one of an inner mortise and one of an inner tenon, and each of the first inner connecting connector and the second inner connecting connector forms the other of an inner mortise and one of an inner tenon, and each pair including one of the inner mortises and one of the inner tenons is configured to form an inner dovetail joint when the inner connecting is assembled with the first track section and the second track section.

[0123] Clause 12: A track section division according to any one of Clauses 1 to 11, wherein each of the first outer section connector and the second outer section connector forms one of an outer mortise and one of an outer tenon, and each of the first outer connecting connector and the second outer connecting connector forms the other of an outer mortise and one of an outer tenon, and each pair including one of the outer mortises and one of the outer tenons is configured to form an outer dovetail joint when the outer connecting is assembled with the first track section and the second track section.

[0124] Clause 13: A track segment according to any one of Clauses 1 through 12, wherein the first engaging surface has a first anchor fixing portion and the second engaging surface has a second anchor fixing portion.

[0125] Clause 14: A track section according to Clause 13, wherein one of the first anchoring portion and the second anchoring portion includes a plurality of laterally distributed tenons, and the other of the first anchoring portion and the second anchoring portion includes a plurality of laterally distributed mortises, wherein the plurality of laterally distributed mortises and the plurality of laterally distributed tenons are configured to form a plurality of laterally distributed dovetail joints when the first track section and the second track section are assembled.

[0126] Article 15: A tracked segment as described in any one of Articles 1 through 14, wherein the first connecting portion has a first hook portion and the second connecting portion has a second hook portion.

[0127] Clause 16: The track division of Clause 15, wherein the first hook portion and the second hook portion are configured to temporarily hold the first connection portion of the first track section in alignment with the second connection portion of the second track section before the inner and outer connection portions connect to the first and second track sections.

[0128] Clause 17: A track segment according to any one of Clauses 1 to 16, wherein at least one of the first track section and the second track section further includes fastening means for engaging the inner and outer coupling portions with the first track segment and the second track segment.

[0129] Clause 18: A track section according to any one of Clauses 1 to 17, wherein the inner and outer connecting sections are configured to form a rigid connection between the first track section and the second track section.

[0130] Clause 19: A track segment according to any one of Clauses 1 to 18, wherein the first connecting portion comprises a flexible portion between the first longitudinal end of the section body and the first inner section connecting portion and the first outer section connecting portion, thereby allowing the assembly formed by connecting the inner connecting portion, the outer connecting portion, the first inner section connecting portion and the first outer section connecting portion to bend relative to the section body.

[0131] 20th clause: A track division for a divided track, the track division comprising a first track section, the first track section comprising a first section body and a first connecting portion located at a first longitudinal end of the first section body, the first connecting portion comprising a first inner connecting surface defining a first inner section connecting portion, a first outer connecting surface opposite the first inner connecting surface, which defines a first outer section connecting portion, a first engaging surface extending between the first inner connecting surface and the first outer connecting surface, and a first longitudinal direction The track division further comprises at least one second track section, each second track section comprising a second section body, a second connection portion located at the second longitudinal end of the second section body, the second internal connection surface defining the second internal section connection portion, and the second internal connection A second connecting portion comprising a second outer connecting surface opposite to the surface, which defines a second outer section connecting portion, and a second engaging surface extending between the second inner connecting surface and the second outer connecting surface; and a third connecting portion located at the third longitudinal end of the third section body, which comprises a third inner connecting surface defining a third inner section connecting portion, and a third outer connecting surface opposite to the third inner connecting surface, which defines a third outer section connecting portion, and an engaging surface extending between the third inner connecting surface and the third outer connecting surface. The track section comprises a third connecting portion having a third engaging surface, and further comprises a first inner connecting portion having a first inner connecting portion and a second inner connecting portion, the first inner connecting portion and the second inner connecting portion are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction, the first inner connecting portion is configured to connect to a first inner section connecting portion of a first connecting portion of a first track section, and the second inner connecting portion is configured such that when the first engaging surface of the first track section abuts against the second engaging surface of at least one second track section,A track divider configured to connect to a second inner section connector of a second connecting portion of at least one second track section, the track divider further comprising a first outer connector having a first outer connector and a second outer connector, the first outer connector and the second outer connector being spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction, the first outer connector being configured to connect to a first outer section connector of a first connecting portion of a first track section, and the second outer connector being configured to connect to a second outer section connector of a second connecting portion of at least one second track section when a first engaging surface of the first track section abuts against a second engaging surface of at least one second track section.

[0132] Clause 21: The track division according to Clause 20, wherein at least one second track section comprises two or more second track sections, the first of the second track sections being connected to the first track section by a first inner connector and a first outer connector, and the second of the two or more second track sections being connected to the first of the two or more second track sections by a second inner connector and a second outer connector.

[0133] Clause 22: A third track section comprising a third section body, a fourth connecting portion located at the fourth longitudinal end of the third section body, comprising a fourth inner connecting surface defining a fourth inner section connecting portion, a fourth outer connecting surface opposite the fourth inner connecting surface, comprising a fourth outer connecting surface defining a fourth outer section connecting portion, a fourth engaging surface extending between the fourth inner connecting surface and the fourth outer connecting surface, and a second cable attachment at the second longitudinal end of the third section body opposite the fourth longitudinal end. A third track section having a fourth connecting portion, which includes a second cable attachment section configured to receive a first of at least one second longitudinal reinforcing cable, and a third inner connecting portion having a third inner connecting portion and a fourth inner connecting portion, wherein the third inner connecting portion and the fourth inner connecting portion are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction, and the third inner connecting portion is connected to the third inner section of the third connecting portion of at least one second track section A third inner connecting portion configured to connect to a section, the fourth inner connecting portion configured to connect to a second inner section connecting portion of a second connecting portion of at least one second track section when the third engaging surface of at least one second track section abuts against the fourth engaging surface of the third track section, and a third outer connecting portion having a third outer connecting portion and a fourth outer connecting portion, wherein the third outer connecting portion and the fourth outer connecting portion are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction. The track division according to Clause 20 or Clause 21, comprising: a third outer connecting portion configured to connect to a third outer section connecting portion of a third connecting portion of at least one second track section; and a fourth outer connecting portion configured to connect to a second outer section connecting portion of a second connecting portion of at least one second track section when a third engaging surface of at least one second section contacts a fourth engaging surface of the third track section.

[0134] Article 23: A segmented track for a track system comprising a plurality of track segments as described in any one of Articles 1 through 22.

[0135] Article 24: A vehicle comprising a frame, an engine supported by the frame, and at least two track systems operably connected to the engine, each including a segmented track as described in Article 23.

[0136] Article 25: A track linkage assembly for a divided track, the track linkage assembly comprising: a) a first connecting portion of a first track section, having a first inner connecting surface, a first outer connecting surface, and a first engaging surface extending between the first inner connecting surface and the first outer connecting surface; and b) a second connecting portion of a second track section, the second connecting portion having a second inner connecting surface, a second outer connecting surface, and a second engaging surface extending between the second inner connecting surface and the second outer connecting surface, wherein the second engaging surface of the first track section is the first engaging surface of the second track section. A track linking assembly comprising: a) a second connecting portion configured to abut against; c) an inner connecting portion configured to connect a first inner connecting surface of a first track section to a second inner connecting surface of a second track section; and d) an outer connecting portion configured to connect a first outer connecting surface of a first track section to a second outer connecting surface of a second track section, wherein the connection of the inner and outer connecting portions with the first and second connecting portions results in the first engaging surface and the second engaging surface abutting against each other, thereby linking the first track section to the second track section.

[0137] Item 26: A method for selectively and removably connecting a first track section of a segmented track to a second track section of a segmented track, wherein the first track section and the second track section each have a first inner section connector and a second inner section connector, and a first outer section connector and a second outer section connector, the method comprising the steps of: aligning the first track section with the second track section; connecting the first inner connector of the inner connector to the first inner section connector of the first track section; connecting the second inner connector of the inner connector to the second inner section connector of the second track section; connecting the first outer connector of the outer connector to the first outer section connector of the first track section; and connecting the second outer connector of the outer connector to the second outer section connector of the second track section.

[0138] Provision 27: The method according to Provision 26, wherein the connection of the first inner connecting section of the first track section to the first inner section connecting section of the first track section is made by lateral translation, the connection of the second inner connecting section of the second track section to the second inner section connecting section of the second track section is made by lateral translation, the connection of the first outer connecting section of the first track section to the first outer section connecting section of the first track section is made by lateral translation, and the connection of the second outer connecting section of the second track section to the second outer section connecting section is made by lateral translation.

[0139] Clause 28: The method according to Clause 26 or Clause 27, wherein the first track section is aligned with the second track section by the first hook portion of the first track section and the second hook portion of the second track section.

[0140] Clause 29: The method according to any one of Clauses 26 to 28, wherein the inner and outer connecting sections are fixed to the first and second track sections so as to be generally fixed laterally to the first and second track sections.

[0141] Article 30: The connection between the first track section and the second track section shall be carried out manually, in the manner of any one of the provisions of Articles 26 through 29.

[0142] Article 31: The method described in Article 30, wherein the first track section and the second track section are connected without the use of special tools.

[0143] Article 32: A track section for a divided track, the track section comprising a section body made of an elastomer material, the section body having an inner surface having at least one inner lug, an outer surface opposite the inner surface having at least one outer lug, a first body end, and a second body end opposite the first body end, and a first connecting portion connected to the first body end of the section body and configured to connect to a second connecting portion of a paired track section, the first connecting portion comprising an inner joining surface including an inner section connecting portion, an outer joining surface opposite the inner joining surface including an outer section connecting portion, and a first engaging surface extending from the inner joining surface to the outer joining surface, the track section further comprising a connecting assembly, the connecting assembly comprising an inner connecting portion having an inner lug portion, an inner section connecting portion of the first connecting portion of the track section opposite the inner lug portion, and a second inner connecting portion of a paired track section A track section having an inner connecting portion having a side section connecting portion and an inner connecting portion complementary to it, and an outer connecting portion having an outer lug portion and an outer connecting portion opposite the outer lug portion that is complementary to the outer section connecting portion of the first connecting portion of the track section and the second outer section connecting portion of the paired track section, wherein the inner connecting portion and the outer connecting portion are connected via lateral translation when the first engaging surface of the track section abuts the second engaging surface of the paired track section to (i) the inner section connecting portion of the first connecting portion of the track section and the second inner section connecting portion of the paired track section, and (ii) the outer section connecting portion of the first connecting portion of the track section and the second outer section connecting portion of the paired track section, thereby forming a rigid joint between the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion.

[0144] Clause 33: The track section described in Clause 32, wherein the first and second connecting sections extend to at least 80% of the width of the section body.

[0145] Clause 34: A track section as described in Clause 32 or 33, wherein at least one inner lug of the section body and the inner lug portion of the inner coupling are drive lugs or guide lugs.

[0146] Clause 35: A track section as described in any one of Clauses 32 to 34, wherein at least one inner lug of the section body and the outer lug portion of the outer connecting section are grounding lugs.

[0147] Clause 36: A track section as described in any one of Clauses 32 through 35, wherein the inner connecting portion includes the first metal part and the inner lug portion is connected to the first metal part.

[0148] Clause 37: A track section as described in any one of Clauses 32 through 36, wherein the outer connecting portion includes a second metal portion, and the outer lug portion is connected to the second metal portion.

[0149] Article 38: A track section as described in any one of Articles 32 through 37, wherein the first connection is distinct from the second connection.

[0150] Clause 39: A track section as described in any one of Clauses 32 to 38, wherein the first and second connecting portions each further comprises complementary hook portions configured to temporarily align and hold the first and second connecting portions together during the installation of the connecting assembly.

[0151] Clause 40: The track section described in any one of Clauses 32 to 39, wherein the inner section connections of the first and second connection parts are configured to form one or more dovetail joints.

[0152] Clause 41: The track section described in Clause 40, wherein the connecting assembly further comprises at least one error-preventing feature.

[0153] Clause 42: The track section according to Clause 41, wherein at least one of the error-preventing features comprises a mortise formed in one of the inner and outer connecting portions, and a tenon formed in the other of the inner and outer connecting portions, and corresponding tenons and mortises formed in the first and second connecting portions, thereby preventing the outer connecting portion from being installed in the inner section connecting portion and the inner connecting portion from being installed in the outer section connecting portion.

[0154] Clause 43: A track section according to Clause 41 or 42, wherein at least one of the error-preventing features is formed in the first and second connecting portions of the track section by tapering a mortise laterally on one of the first and second engaging surfaces and tapering a tenon laterally on the other of the first and second engaging surfaces, in order to prevent the inner or outer connecting portion from sliding in the wrong direction.

[0155] Article 44: A track section as described in any one of Articles 32 to 43, further comprising fixing means for selectively preventing lateral translation of the inner and outer couplings relative to the track section.

[0156] Article 45: The means of fastening includes a separate component, the track section as described in Article 44.

[0157] Clause 46: The track section described in Clause 44, wherein the fixing means is integrated in the track section and in the inner and outer coupling portions.

[0158] Clause 47: A track section as described in any one of Clauses 32 to 46, wherein the first of the engaging surfaces further includes a first anchor fixing portion, and the second of the engaging surfaces further includes a second anchor fixing portion complementary to the first anchor fixing portion.

[0159] Article 48: The track section described in Article 47, wherein the anchored portion is configured to form a dovetail joint.

[0160] Article 49: A segmented track for a tracked vehicle, comprising a number of track sections as defined in any one of Articles 32 through 48, the ends of which are joined to form a closed loop.

[0161] Article 50: A vehicle equipped with a segmented track as defined in Article 49.

[0162] Article 51: A method for releasably joining track sections, each track section having an inner section connector and an outer section connector, the method comprising: aligning the track sections end-to-end; engaging the inner connector with each pair of inner section connectors of adjacent track sections via lateral translation; and engaging the outer connector with each pair of outer section connectors of adjacent track sections via lateral translation.

[0163] Article 52: The method described in Article 51, wherein each pair of track sections is temporarily aligned by the hook portion.

[0164] Clause 53: The method according to Clause 51, further comprising the step of fixing the lateral movement of the inner and outer connecting portions using fixing means.

[0165] Article 54: The method described in Article 51, wherein sections are joined together without the use of special tools.

[0166] Article 55: A track divider for a divided track, the track divider comprising a first track section, the first track section comprising a section body and a first connecting portion located at one end of the section body, the first connecting portion comprising a first inner section connecting portion, a first outer section connecting portion opposite to the first inner section connecting portion, and a first engaging surface configured to abut against a second engaging surface of a second connecting portion of a second track section, the track divider further comprising an inner connecting portion having a first inner connecting portion and a second inner connecting portion configured to connect to a first inner section connecting portion of a first track section and a second inner section connecting portion of a second track section, respectively, and an outer connecting portion having a first outer connecting portion and a second outer connecting portion configured to connect to a first outer section connecting portion of a first track section and a second outer section connecting portion of a second connecting portion of a second track section, respectively.

[0167] Modifications and improvements to the above-described implementations of this technology may be apparent to those skilled in the art. The foregoing description is intended to be illustrative rather than restrictive. Therefore, the scope of this technology is intended to be limited only to the appended claims. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0168] 10 vehicles 20 Sprocket Wheel 30 Driven wheels 40 Road Wheels 50 Direction of forward movement 100 segment endless track 200 Track segment 202 Rigid tracked section 204 Flexible track section 205 Foundation body, carcass 207 First terminal 209 The second opposite end 211 First lateral edge 213 Second opposite lateral edge 250 First joining member 256 Tail section 257 Aperture 258 recesses 270 Second joining member 276 Tail section 277 Aperture 278 recesses 290 Common rigid joint 300 Ground Engaging Surface, External Surface 310 tread lugs, traction lugs, outer lugs 400 Wheel engagement surface, inner surface 410 Guide Rug 420, 430 drive lag 440, 450 Wheel path 500 Tracked Sections 500a First track section 500b Second track section 500c Third track section 502 Section Body 504 Inner Self 506 Inner body lug 508 Exterior 510 Outer body lug 512 First longitudinal end 514 Second longitudinal end 516 First connection section 518 Second connection section 520 First inner connecting surface 524 First inner section connection 526 Second inner section connection 528 First outer connecting surface 530 Outer connecting surface 532 First outer section connection 534 Second outer section connection 536 First engagement surface 538 Second engagement surface 540 Inner connecting section 542 Inner connecting section lug 544 Internal connection part 546 First inner connecting part 548 Second inner connecting part 550 Outer connection part 552 Outer connecting lug 554 Outer connection part 556 First outer connecting part 558 Second outer connecting part 560 Longitudinal reinforcement cable 562 Second longitudinal end 570 mortise 572 Mortise 574 First anchor fixing part 576 Second anchor fixing part 580 U-shaped board 582 volts 584 Indentation 586 Boosting Lip 588 Indentation 590 First hook section 592 Second hook section

Claims

1. An infinite track divider for a divided infinite track, wherein the infinite track divider is It comprises a first track section, the first track section is The section body and The section body comprises a first connecting portion located at the first longitudinal end, the first connecting portion being A first inner connecting surface that defines the first inner section connecting portion, A first outer connecting surface opposite to the first inner connecting surface, which defines the first outer section connecting portion, A first engaging surface extending between the first inner connecting surface and the first outer connecting surface, configured to abut against the second engaging surface of the second connecting portion of the second track section, It has, The aforementioned infinite track division further, An inner connecting portion having a first inner connecting portion and a second inner connecting portion, wherein the first inner connecting portion and the second inner connecting portion are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction, the first inner connecting portion is configured to connect to the first inner section connecting portion of the first connecting portion of the first track section, and the second inner connecting portion is configured to connect to the second inner section connecting portion of the second connecting portion of the second track section, An outer connecting portion having a first outer connecting portion and a second outer connecting portion, wherein the first outer connecting portion and the second outer connecting portion are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction, the first outer connecting portion is configured to connect to the first outer section connecting portion of the first connecting portion of the first track section, and the second outer connecting portion is configured to connect to the second outer section connecting portion of the second connecting portion of the second track section, A segmented body equipped with an infinite track system.

2. The track division according to claim 1, further comprising the second track section.

3. The track section according to claim 1, wherein the first track section has a second connecting portion at the second longitudinal end of the section body opposite to the first longitudinal end, and the second connecting portion is configured to be connected to a third track section using an auxiliary inner connecting portion and an auxiliary outer connecting portion.

4. The aforementioned track section is reinforced with longitudinal reinforcing cables. The first track section includes a cable attachment section at a second longitudinal end of the section body opposite to the first longitudinal end, the cable attachment section being configured to receive the first end of the longitudinal reinforcement cable. The track segment according to claim 1, wherein the longitudinal reinforcing cable has a second end configured for attachment to another track segment.

5. The continuous track segment according to claim 1, wherein the section body is made of an elastomer material.

6. The section body is, An inner surface having at least one inner body lug, An outer surface opposite to the inner surface, having at least one outer body lug, Equipped with, The aforementioned inner connecting portion comprises at least one inner connecting portion lug, The endless track segment according to claim 1, wherein the outer connecting portion comprises at least one outer connecting portion lug.

7. The aforementioned at least one inner body lug comprises at least one drive lug and at least one guide lug, The endless track segment according to claim 6, wherein the at least one inner connecting lug comprises at least one drive lug and at least one guide lug.

8. The aforementioned at least one outer body lug comprises at least one ground engagement lug, The endless track segment according to claim 6, wherein the at least one outer connecting lug comprises at least one ground engagement lug.

9. The at least one inner body lug and the at least one inner connecting lug are spaced apart in the longitudinal direction. The endless track segment according to claim 6, wherein the at least one outer body lug and the at least one outer connecting lug are spaced apart in the longitudinal direction.

10. The track section according to claim 1, wherein the first and second connecting portions extend laterally along at least about 70% of the width of the first track section.

11. Each of the first inner section connecting portion and the second inner section connecting portion forms either an inner mortise or an inner tenon. Each of the first inner connecting portion and the second inner connecting portion forms the other of the inner mortise and the inner tenon. The track section according to claim 1, wherein each pair including one of the internal mortises and one of the internal tenons is configured to form an internal dovetail joint when the internal connecting portion is assembled with the first track section and the second track section.

12. Each of the first outer section connecting portion and the second outer section connecting portion forms either an outer mortise or an outer tenon. Each of the first outer connecting portion and the second outer connecting portion forms the other of the outer mortise and the outer tenon. The track division according to claim 1, wherein each pair including one of the outer mortises and one of the outer tenons is configured to form an outer dovetail joint when the outer connecting portion is assembled with the first track section and the second track section.

13. The continuous track segment according to claim 1, wherein the first engaging surface has a first anchor fixing portion, and the second engaging surface has a second anchor fixing portion.

14. The first anchor fixing portion and the second anchor fixing portion include a plurality of tenons distributed laterally, The other of the first anchor fixing portion and the second anchor fixing portion includes a plurality of mortise holes distributed laterally, The track section according to claim 13, wherein the plurality of mortises and the plurality of tenons distributed laterally are configured to form a plurality of dovetail joints distributed laterally when the first track section and the second track section are assembled.

15. The track segment according to claim 1, wherein the first connecting portion has a first hook portion, and the second connecting portion has a second hook portion.

16. The track section according to claim 15, wherein the first hook portion and the second hook portion are configured to temporarily hold the first connection portion of the first track section in alignment with the second connection portion of the second track section before the inner connecting portion and the outer connecting portion connect to the first track section and the second track section.

17. The track section according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the first track section and the second track section further includes fixing means for engaging the inner connecting portion and the outer connecting portion with the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion.

18. The track section according to claim 1, wherein the inner connecting portion and the outer connecting portion are configured to form a rigid connection between the first track section and the second track section.

19. The track segment according to claim 1, wherein the first connecting portion includes a flexible portion between the first longitudinal end of the section body and the first inner section connecting portion and the first outer section connecting portion, thereby allowing the assembly formed by connecting the inner connecting portion, the outer connecting portion, the first inner section connecting portion and the first outer section connecting portion to bend relative to the section body.

20. An infinite track divider for a divided infinite track, wherein the infinite track divider is It comprises a first track section, the first track section is The section body and The section body comprises a first connecting portion located at one end, and the first connecting portion is The first inner section connection, A first outer section connection opposite to the first inner section connection, A first engaging surface is defined which is configured to abut against the second engaging surface of the second connecting portion of the second track section, The aforementioned infinite track division further, An inner connecting portion having a first inner connecting portion and a second inner connecting portion, which are configured to connect to the first inner section connecting portion of the first continuous track section and the second inner section connecting portion of the second continuous track section, An endless track section comprising an outer connecting portion having a first outer connecting portion and a second outer connecting portion, which are configured to connect to the first outer section connecting portion of the first endless track section and to the second outer section connecting portion of the second connecting portion of the second endless track section, respectively.

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