MONOLITHIC FLEXIBLE SUSPENSION AND TRACK TENSIONING SYSTEM

Abstract

The invention relates to an innovative flexible suspension and track tensioning system developed for use in tracked vehicles, combining suspension and track tensioning mechanisms on a single (monolithic) body. Specifically, the invention relates to a flexible suspension and track tensioning system developed to absorb ground-induced shocks in tracked vehicles and to ensure the working tension of the track (40), comprising a monolithic body (30) forming the main backbone of the system, at least one flexible suspension (10) fixed to this body (30) without any movable joints and absorbing vertical displacements through its own elastic deformation, and a flexible tensioning arm (20) also attached to the body (30) without any movable components and operating through its own elastic deformation capacity.

Description

1 TARIFF MONOLITHIC FLEXIBLE SUSPENSION AND TRACK TENSIONING SYSTEM TECHNICAL FIELD The invention is designed for use in tracked vehicles; it includes suspension and track tensioning systems. an innovative, flexible, monolithic structure that integrates its systems onto a single body. It relates to the suspension and track tensioning system. The invention specifically addresses the ability to withstand ground-induced shocks in tracked vehicles and the operation of the track. developed to ensure its tension, the monolithic 10 that forms the main backbone of the system A body in the structure cannot be separated from that body without containing any movable joints. By fixing it in its entirety, vertical displacements are transferred to energy through its own elastic deformation. at least one flexible suspension system that encloses it, and also movable components attached to the body. It is a monolithic unit that operates without housing and relies on its own elastic stretching capacity. It relates to flexible suspension and track tensioning systems including flexible tension arms. 15 STATE OF THE ART Tracked vehicles distribute their weight over a wide surface in challenging terrain conditions, enabling them to maintain low ground clearance. These platforms are designed to provide pressure and high traction. These vehicles have 20 maintaining mobility, driving comfort, and structural integrity on challenging terrain. The most critical elements are the suspension and track tensioning systems. Suspension systems, shocks and vibrations caused by uneven surfaces (springs, shock absorbers or torsion bars) (via the rods) it dampens the vibrations, protecting the vehicle's body from shocks and the road It ensures that the wheels maintain constant contact with the ground. On the other hand, track tensioning systems, 25 the changing geometry and dynamics during the up-down movement of the suspension by adapting to the forces, the track (track) remains at the ideal tension at all times. It undertakes this. Maintaining this tension at an optimum level prevents the pallet from coming off the pulleys. this can cause power losses due to excessive friction and premature wear in the drivetrain. By preventing this, it ensures the vehicle moves smoothly and efficiently. 30 2 In current technology, tracked vehicle suspension and tensioning systems utilize rigid links and independent components. numerous independent components such as suspension arms, springs, shock absorbers, and movable joints. It consists of components. This modular, multi-part structure is prone to failure. This increases both the number of points of sale and the complexity of the production and supply chain. Separately The fact that the parts must be produced individually and require precise assembly processes increases labor times by 5 this prolongs the process, creates the risk of faulty assembly, and ultimately makes production costs unreasonable. This makes it difficult to bring them down to the required levels. In current technology, the system includes springs, shock absorbers, joint sets, and separate tensioning units. This significantly increases the vehicle's overall weight and the design space it occupies. Heavy 10 These conventional rigid structures, developed for military-grade vehicles, are suitable for unmanned ground operations. vehicles (UAVs), small-scale platforms such as mobile robots or toys This creates a disadvantage when adapted. During the miniaturization phase of the mechanisms. Weight, assembly difficulties, and high cost become barriers, making the system a problem. This limits its scalability to different tools. 15 In current technology, bushings, joints, and components are used for suspension and power transmission. The movable rigid arms are subjected to intense wear over time. The load on the system The transfer of stress directly creates local stresses on these parts, leading to fatigue and This increases the risk of breakage. In challenging field and terrain conditions, reliability decreases. These wear and tear issues require continuous lubrication, fine-tuning, and part replacement of the system. This leads to the need for costly and time-consuming maintenance. In current technology, the tensioner (track) that holds the track at the appropriate tension with the suspension mechanism. Tensioner units are generally designed separately. These two independent 25 Additional fasteners are required to integrate the system into a single vehicle. Synchronization equipment is required. This can be done using traditional hydraulic or mechanical methods. Tensioning systems, in addition to being complex, require fast, precise and repeatable results in the field. It also makes adjusting the track tension quite difficult. 30 3 In current technology, mechanical voids at the points where multi-part structures are connected, Joint play and response delays cause unwanted vibrations and noise in the system. This is the reason. This situation, caused by mechanical tolerances, is especially true for small... It reduces shock absorption performance on platforms, causing the tracked vehicle to hit the ground. It limits adaptation and driving quality. 5 In conclusion, in order to solve the aforementioned problems that exist in the current technology, a new economical, practical monolithic flexible suspension and track tensioning system The perceived need and the inadequacy of existing solutions necessitate an improvement in the relevant technical field. It has made it necessary to do so. 10 THE PURPOSE OF THE INVENTION The present invention aims to eliminate the aforementioned disadvantages and contribute to the relevant technical field. Developed to bring new advantages, designed for tracked vehicles, suspension 15 and suspension that integrates track tensioning systems in a single, flexible structure. It is related to the pallet tensioning system. The main objective of the invention is to integrate the suspension arms, tensioner, and mechanism housing into a single unit. By combining parts in a monolithic and flexible structure, it eliminates the need for multiple parts. The goal is to eliminate them. This allows for production without the use of rigid fasteners and joints. The complex assembly processes and labor times required afterwards are largely reduced. is being reduced. Another important advantage of the invention is that, thanks to the reduced number of parts and simplified production processes, 25 The goal is to significantly reduce both production and life cycle costs. The system; 3D printing using polymer, elastomer or composite-like materials or They can be produced in a single batch using methods such as injection molding, which is fast. It offers prototyping and low-cost mass production capabilities. 30 4 Another important objective of the invention is to eliminate the heavy spring linkage set found in traditional mechanisms. The goal is to achieve a much lighter and more compact structure compared to its blocks. This weight gain is achieved through... and space saving, small-scale unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) where space is critical, robotics This creates a significant advantage for platforms and toy applications. 5 Another important objective of the invention is to ensure flawless suspension system and track tensioning function. The goal is to overcome integration challenges by somehow bringing them together in a single entity. External and separate. No need for pallet tensioning units; manual tensioning and synchronization on site. This eliminates the difficulty of making it, ensuring the pallet remains at the correct tension at all times. It supports it automatically. 10 Another important objective of the invention is that it does not contain hinges, bushings, or mechanical joints in its structure. The goal is to minimize the risk of wear-related failures and to reduce the need for maintenance. The need for regular lubrication, fine-tuning, or replacement of worn-out joints is eliminated. Because it has been developed, the reliability and uninterrupted usability of the vehicle in challenging field conditions is 15. is being increased. Another important objective of the invention is to achieve motion transmission and damping using rigid mechanical systems. Unlike other parts, it manages ground adaptation by utilizing its elastic deformation capacity. The aim is to improve driving comfort. 20 connection gaps in multi-part designs. Tolerance, vibration and noise problems caused by shocks from the ground are prevented. is welcomed. Another important purpose of the invention is to improve supply chain and logistics processes and spare parts. The aim is to simplify its management. Because the system is designed as a single unit, it is less prone to deterioration in field conditions. Instant, much more practical, faster and expert-free single part (module) replacement. This allows the system to become operational again. Another important aim of the invention is to provide compatibility for different vehicle sizes, varying weights, and applications. According to this, it offers high scalability. The material structure and thickness of the single-piece hardware... or by modifying the stress design parameters to meet any stiffness and load requirement. The goal is to create an easily adaptable architecture. 5 The structural and characteristic features and all the advantages of the invention are given in the figures below. This becomes clearer thanks to the detailed explanation written with references to these figures. This will be understood, and therefore the evaluation should also take these forms and detailed explanations into consideration. It needs to be done by taking precautions. 10 FIGURES THAT WILL HELP UNDERSTAND THE INVENTION FIGURE 1; The subject of the invention is a monolithic flexible suspension and track tensioning system for a traction track. It is a picture showing road wheels. FIGURE 2; The subject of the invention is a monolithic flexible suspension and track tensioning system in one piece. It is a picture showing the body. 15 FIGURE 3; Showing the working principle of the flexible suspension mechanism integrated into the body. It is a picture. FIGURE 4; Showing the working principle of the flexible tensioning mechanism integrated into the frame. It is a picture. 20 REFERENCE NUMBERS 10. Flexible Suspension 20. Flexible Tension Arm 30. Body 6 40. Pallet 50th Gear 60. Tension Wheel 70. Road Wheel 80. Connection Between Suspension and Body 5 90. Connection Between Tensioner and Body DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION This detailed explanation explains why monolithic flexible suspension and track tensioning systems are preferred. The structures that have been established are solely for the purpose of better understanding the subject and in no way It is explained in a way that will not create a limiting effect. This invention is suitable for tracked vehicles, particularly unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs), robotic platforms, and 15 Used in systems designed to operate in challenging terrain conditions Developed with the aim of maximizing mobility and shock absorption performance. The invention describes a monolithic flexible suspension and track tensioning system. Unlike traditionally constructed, multi-part, and rigid-jointed suspension elements, Suspension and track tensioning basic functions in a single (monolithic) geometry. through, using the elastic deformation properties of the material 20 It is carrying out. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the system subject to this invention has a general configuration that includes all a basic trunk on which the lower limbs are integrated (30) It includes. The body in question (30) functions as the main supporting backbone of the system. 25 7 They are able to see and understand the geometry and kinematic limits of the vehicle's running gear. It determines each path that provides contact between the tracked vehicle and the ground and distributes the load. for the wheel (70), from the connection point between the suspension and the body (30) (80). an independent flexible suspension fixed in an inseparable (monolithic / single piece) form (10) is available. Instead of a conventional bearing or pin connection, suspension and 5 The material integrity is maintained at the connection point between the body (80), making it rigid and wear-resistant. A combination that avoids exposure has been achieved. When the working principle of the flexible suspension (10) is examined by referring to Figure 3; The mechanism's kinematic approach is based on the traditional "four-bar mechanism" principle. It was designed in a similar configuration, but with rotary kinematic elements in between. It is seen that it does not contain (joints). Flexible suspension (10), on the road surface Vertical displacements caused by irregularities, bumps, and uneven surfaces, with elastic deformations that the arms perform on their own bodies It is met by vertical and lateral loads originating from the ground while the vehicle is in motion, lane 15 The load shocks are transferred directly from the pallet (40) to the road wheel (70). under flexible suspension (10), road wheel (70) shown in Figure 3 at the start (unloaded) from the H1 level, it stretches to the higher H2 level. It moves correctly. During this flexing motion, the road wheel (70) has a pseudo-four rod. It is attached to the end portion, which is positioned equivalent to the intermediate element of the mechanism. Suspension 20 The parallel and flexible limbs (arms) that form it both serve as a load-bearing structure. and at the same time a "spring" effect depending on the spring coefficient of the material It creates. The mechanism's shock absorption characteristics are based on its transformation and storage. 25 It is based on. Flexible suspension (10) as a result of impact from the road wheel (70) The limbs elastically deform (twist / bend). During this stretching, the ground-derived Impact energy is stored as elastic potential energy in the arms of the system. The obstacle... Upon overcoming or eliminating the load, the material has its own restoring force. By releasing this stored potential energy, the wheel (70) turns back to 30 8 It keeps the mechanism in contact with the ground and returns it to its starting position at height H1. It rotates. During this back-and-forth oscillation process, the internal friction (hysteresis) of the material... As a result, a portion of the kinetic energy is converted into heat energy within the system. It is damped (dissipated). The invention also does not define a damping element. and dampers can be added to the system if deemed necessary. 5 For the system to move continuously and efficiently, the drive element of the pallet (40) the gear (50) rotates around the other road wheels (70) with a certain tension is necessary. This necessary working tension is produced in one piece with the body (30). This is provided by the flexible tension arm (20). As shown in detail in Figure 4. Thus, the flexible tension arm (20) connects to the body from the connection point between the tensioner and the body (90). (30) is permanently attached and does not contain any movable components. Flexible tension arm (20) The tension wheel (60) mounted on the free end (far end) drives the drive system It is positioned in constant contact with the surrounding pallet (40). 15 Referring to Figure 4, the working and preloading principle of the flexible tension arm (20) It is explained. Flexible tension arm (20), mechanical hydraulic piston or spring tensioner It operates without a bearing, relying solely on its own elastic elongation / contraction and bending capacity. The pallet (40) limited clearance during the initial assembly (fitting) of the system, tension wheel (60) horizontal By forcing it toward the body along the axis, the flexible tension arm (20) is normally free 20 elastic from the longer L1 neck to the shorter (or tighter) L2 neck. subjected to deformation and shape change (or curved structure according to design) (It creates tension by stretching from L1 to L2). This initial assembly deformation is a flexible tension. It creates a preload (potential energy) on the arm (20). The material The tendency to return to the starting position is conveyed to the inner surface of the pallet (40) via the tension wheel (60) 25 It applies a continuous and dynamic outward pushing force. Thus, the drive of the track (40) play during transmission (gear 50), jumping off pulleys, or excessive This prevents sagging. 9 The greatest advantage of the flexible suspension (10) and flexible tension arm (20) in the monolithic structure is, This occurs during dynamic interactions. When the vehicle is moving over rough terrain, The up-down movement of the flexible suspension arms (10) from H1 to H2, of the system It instantaneously changes the overall environmental geometry. In traditional systems, this situation... Impacts on the pallet, stress fluctuations (loosening or overstretching) 5 This causes. However, in the system that is the subject of the invention, the vertical oscillations of the road wheels (70) instantaneous geometric changes and stress differences occurring on the pallet (40) due to The milliseconds of the flexible tension arm (20) behind the tension wheel (60) on the "L1-L2" axis Thanks to its ability to stretch and recover instantly (expand / contract back and forth), it provides immediate relief. It is balanced (compensated). In this way, the pallet (40) is balanced (compensated) even in the hardest impact moments or cross 10 It maintains its gripping function without losing optimum working tension, even when suspended. It continues. The design criteria of the mechanism described in the invention include a highly scalable structure. It offers 15 arms forming the flexible suspension (10) and the flexible tension arm (20). Definitional parameters; specifically tailored to the application requirements. The profile thickness and lateral wall thickness of the arms at page depth are determined. also their lateral cross-sections (preferably rectangular to maximize arm flexibility) dimensions of the base section forms; the total weight of the vehicle, from the road wheels (70) to the system the reaction forces to be transmitted and the expected spring stiffness from the system (spring 20 The material is optimized depending on the stiffness / rate targets. The cross-sectional area of ​​the material and The length of the limbs is homogeneous not only regionally but also along the limb axis (length) and an elastic deformation characteristic that remains within fatigue limits It has been determined in such a way as to show local stress concentrations. By preventing (concentration), the monolithic body is made more durable. 25 The materials and equipment used in the system must have the appropriate durability for the system's operating conditions. Technical polymers, elastomers, fibers or offering fatigue resistance and elastic modulus carbon-reinforced composite materials, or flexible metal alloys as is possible, additive manufacturing (3D printing), injection molding or one-piece 30 It is a structure that can be produced by casting / machining methods. All these structural components come together. When it arrives; it is maintenance-free, has a minimum number of parts, and is highly advantageous in terms of logistics. An innovative suspension and tensioning system that provides an advantage with its high shock and noise absorption capabilities. This module is thus introduced to the sector. 5 The scope of protection in this application is defined in the claims section and is explicitly stated above. The examples given cannot be limited to those described; a person skilled in the technique can make a difference in the invention. the innovation presented can be achieved by using similar structures and / or This structure can also be applied to other similar fields using the same technology. It is clear that it can be implemented. Therefore, such structures foster innovation and especially technology. It is also obvious that it will lack the criterion of exceeding the known situation.

Claims

11 REQUESTS 1- The invention is a device developed for use in tracked vehicles to absorb ground-induced shocks. a suspension and track tensioner that dampens and provides working tension of the track (40). It is related to the system and its feature is; 5 - A monolithic body forming the main supporting backbone of the system (30), - Without incorporating a movable kinematic joint or rigid connecting element, the aforementioned The body (30) is inseparable from the suspension and body connection (80) point. fixed as a single piece in its entirety, with parallel vertical displacements. at least 10 that dampen through elastic deformation created by the limbs themselves a flexible suspension (10), - The mentioned body (30) is movable from the connection point (90) between the tension and the body. the environmental component of the system that is permanently and integrally connected without containing any additional components. its own elastic elongation, shortening and bending capacity in accordance with its mobility a flexible tension arm (20) working through 15 It is characterized by its inclusion. 2- Suspension and track tensioning system in accordance with Claim 1, its feature being; as mentioned above. shocks to which the flexible suspension (10) is subjected from ground-related bumps In order to overcome it, the impact energy is converted into elastic deformation potential energy. storing and initiating bending-torsion forces without rotary joints. in the form of a pseudo-four-bar mechanism capable of returning to its original position It is characterized by having monolithic arms. 3- Suspension and track tensioning system in accordance with Claim 1, its feature is; the aforementioned 25 The tension wheel (60) is positioned at the free end (far end) of the flexible tension arm (20) To ensure working tension by continuously pushing outwards towards the inner surface of the pallet (40). For this purpose, during assembly, the free length L1 is shorter than the length or it is stretched In the form L2, passing through the longitudinal section, an elastic deformation (preloading) occurs on it. It is characterized by having a curved and flexible structure that accommodates various elements. 30 12 4- Suspension and track tensioning system in accordance with Claim 1, its feature is; as mentioned above. The flexible tension arm (20) provides flexible suspension when the vehicle is moving over rough terrain. (10) resulting from the vertical oscillations of the arms up and down on the pallet (40) to compensate for the instantaneous geometric changes and stress differences that occur It includes hardware that provides instantaneous expansion and contraction flexibility in milliseconds. 5 It is the characterization of the situation. 5- Suspension and track tensioning system in accordance with Claim 1, its feature being; as mentioned above monolithic body (30), flexible suspension (10) and flexible tension arm (20) the equipment must prevent local stress concentrations and remain within fatigue limits. 10 with a profile optimized for thickness; technical polymer, elastomer, fiber or monolithic material made from carbon-reinforced composite or flexible metal alloy. It is characterized by its inclusion of a material architecture. 15

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