An axle connection system for a vehicle

Abstract

The present invention relates to es an axle connection and drive system for a vehicle, where the wheel and axle assembly is connected to the chassis of a vehicle by an axle arm, which is movably connected to the chassis of the vehicle and to the wheel and axle assembly for pivotal movement of the distal end of the axle arm and thereby the wheel and axle assembly. The system enables enable uneven suspension of the left and right wheels as well as increased length of suspension with decreased effect on steering of the vehicle.

Description

[0001] P16022PC00 1

[0002] An axle connection system for a vehicle

[0003] Field of the invention

[0004] The invention relates to axle connection and drive system for longer vehicles, off-road vehicles and trucks. Furthermore, the present invention provides an axle arm for vehicles comprising belt-crawlers.

[0005] Background

[0006] Larger vehicles such as off-road vehicles, construction machinery, agricultural equipment, military vehicles, and specialized vehicles used in exploration or scientific research suffer by their size when it comes to driving and manoeuvring properties such as steering and suspension. This problem is even more profound in vehicles having a combination of traditional wheel and axle assembly for driving and one or more belt crawler units for providing a continuous surface area for gripping the ground and allowing vehicles with track belts to move across various terrains.

[0007] In the past solving some of these problems has included split-frame vehicles such as the one disclosed in US2002170755 having front and rear sub-frames which rotate relative to one another along a longitudinal axis that runs generally parallel to the ground. A locking mechanism is provided enabling a locked position in which the sub-frames are rigidly coupled and an unlocked position in which the sub-frames are free to rotate relative to one another. The vehicle may further comprise an axial rotator joint connected between the sub-frames providing a rotational interface between the sub-frames

[0008] US2010176563 discloses an automatic levelling vehicle having a front frame section and a rear frame section interconnected by a swivel joint which permits pivotable movement of the front frame section relative to the rear frame section about a generally horizontal axis extending longitudinally of the vehicle. Furthermore, a gear train is attached to the rear frame section and a right and left rear wheel assemblies being operatively interconnecting the gear train, as well as a lever arm connected to the gear train for controlling the position of the rear axle assemblies to encounter an uneven terrain.

[0009] Summary of the Invention

[0010] The present invention provides an axle connection and drive system for a vehicle, where the wheel and axle assembly is connected to the chassis of a vehicle by an axle arm, which is movably connected to the chassis of the vehicle and to the wheel and axle assembly for pivotal movement of the distal end of the axle arm and thereby the wheel and axle assembly. The axle arm is divided into a proximal and distal axle arm joined by joint, which allows rotation of the distal axle arm around a central axis of the axle arm to P16022PC00 2 enable uneven suspension of the left and right wheels. This system allows for increased length of suspension with decreased effect on steering of the vehicle. Furthermore, this provides a new system for four-wheel steering.

[0011] Furthermore, the present invention provides an axle connection and drive system for a vehicle with a belt-crawler undercarriage mounted under the vehicle, preferably with shape changeable belt crawler unit(s). Such belt crawler unit(s) have a static central wheel attached to the chassis or the undercarriage of the vehicle and at least a front and rear wheel attached to front and rear pivotal frame arms. When the belt-crawler undercarriage is not in use or in a resting position, the belt crawler unit(s) have a linear shape under the vehicle. However, during operation the front and rear wheels of the crawler unit(s) are lowered by a radial movement of the front and rear pivotal frame arms forming a triangular shaped belt. The belt crawler unit(s) may also comprise further frame components, such as a longitudinal telescopic connection arm connecting the front and the rear wheel. These variation are shown and further outlined in figure 1.

[0012] In order to facilitate the shape-change of such belt crawler unit(s), at least one of the frame portions comprises a telescopic suspension element for altering the length of one or more frame portions. The radial movement of the front and rear pivotal frame arms is facilitated by vertical telescopic suspension elements, which are connected to the front and rear pivotal frame arms. The suspension elements in one or more frame portions enable the belt crawler unit(s) to maintain circumferential tension on the crawler belt of the belt crawler unit(s) through the shape changing of each belt crawler unit between a linear shape and a triangular shape.

[0013] The present invention further provides an axle connection and drive system for vehicles such as four-wheel vehicles in combination with the belt-crawler undercarriage of the invention. Such axle connection and drive system may for either or both of a front and rear wheel and axle assembly. The system may provide a pivotal connection from a central vehicle drive shaft connected to the engine to the wheel and axle assembly through a connecting drive shaft arranged within the axle arm. Furthermore, the connecting axle arm may also provide connections from a central gear system and / or steering system of the vehicle to the wheel and axle assembly.

[0014] In some embodiments a suspension system for a belt crawler undercarriage and a suspension systems for the axle connection and drive system of the present invention may be independently controlled, but the suspension systems for belt crawler undercarriage and for the axle connection and drive system may also be co-ordinated.

[0015] It is an object of the present invention to overcome and / or ameliorate the aforementioned drawbacks of the prior art and to provide an improved and / or alternative and / or additional axle connection and drive system for a vehicle. P16022PC00 3

[0016] The object(s) underlying the present invention is (are) particularly solved by the features defined in the independent claims. The dependent claims relate to preferred embodiments of the present invention. Further additional and / or alternative aspects are discussed below.

[0017] Thus, at least one of the preferred object of the present invention is solved by an axle connection and drive system for a vehicle, where the system comprises i) a wheel and axle assembly comprising left and right wheels and an axle, and ii) an axle arm centrally arranged from a pivotal connection to the chassis of the vehicle to a movable connection of the wheel and axle assembly, where the axle arm is divided into a proximal axle arm and distal axle arm connected by a joint where the joint allows a rotation of the distal axle arm around a central axis of the axle arm to enable uneven suspension of the left and right wheels.

[0018] Another preferred object of the present invention is solved by axle arm for connecting the wheel and axle assembly to the chassis of a vehicle, where the axle arm comprises i) a proximal portion and a distal portion, II) a frame structure for each of the proximal and the distal portion, ill) a joint connecting the proximal and the distal portion, iv) a connector for connecting the axle arm to the chassis of the vehicle, v) a connector for connecting the axle arm to the wheel and axle assembly of the vehicle, and vi) a central space for housing an axle portion to connect to the wheel and axle assembly of the vehicle, where the joint connecting the proximal and the distal portion allows rotation of the distal axle arm around a central axis of the axle arm.

[0019] One of the preferred objects of the present invention is solved by an axle connection and drive system adapted to operate with a vehicle having a belt-crawler undercarriage mounted under said vehicle, where the belt-crawler undercarriage comprises at least one belt crawler unit adapted for a shape change between a linear shape and a triangular shape.

[0020] In the present context the terms "connector" and "connection" in relation to the axle arm relate to a mechanical connection of the axle arm to the chassis or the central frame structure and a mechanical connection of the frame arm to the wheel and axle assembly or the housing of wheel and axle assembly of the vehicle. Such mechanical connection may allow movements such as, but not limited to, pivotal movement, rotational movement, two- or three-way movement around the connector.

[0021] In the present context the term "axle arm" relates to a mechanical pivotal arm connected between the chassis and the wheel and axle assembly of the vehicle.

[0022] In an embodiment of the present invention the wheel and axle assembly further comprises a housing around the axle. P16022PC00 4

[0023] In an embodiment of the present invention the wheel and axle assembly is a front wheel and axle assembly and / or a rear wheel and axle assembly.

[0024] In an embodiment of the present invention the movable connection of the axle arm to the axle allows at least a two-axis movement of the axle around it's centre point.

[0025] In an embodiment of the present invention the movable connection of the axle arm to the axle allows at least a three-axis movement of the axle around it's centre point.

[0026] In an embodiment of the present invention the axle arm comprises a frame structure for each of the proximal axle arm and the distal axle arm.

[0027] In an embodiment of the present invention the axle arm comprises a connector for connecting the axle arm to the chassis of the vehicle.

[0028] In an embodiment of the present invention the axle arm comprises a connector for connecting the axle arm to the wheel and axle assembly of the vehicle.

[0029] In an embodiment of the present invention the axle arm comprises a central space for housing a drive shaft to be connected to the wheel and axle assembly of the vehicle.

[0030] In an embodiment of the present invention the joint connecting the proximal and the distal portion allows rotation of the distal axle arm around a central axis of the axle arm.

[0031] In an embodiment of the present invention the joint between the proximal and distal axle arm is a swivel.

[0032] In an embodiment of the present invention the joint between the proximal axle arm and distal axle arm is hollow for allowing a drive shaft to be arranged through the joint.

[0033] In an embodiment of the present invention the swivel joint between the proximal and distal axle arm is hollow, and wherein a drive shaft is centrally arranged within the axle arm through the swivel joint.

[0034] In an embodiment of the present invention the axle arm comprises I) a proximal and a distal portion, ii) a frame structure for each of the proximal and the distal portion, iii) a joint connecting the proximal and the distal portion, iv) a connector for connecting the axle arm to the chassis of the vehicle, v) a connector for connecting the axle arm to the wheel and axle assembly of the vehicle, and vi) a central space for housing an axle portion to connect to the wheel and axle assembly of the vehicle, where the joint connecting the proximal and the distal portion allows rotation of the distal axle arm around a central axis of the axle arm.

[0035] In an embodiment of the present invention the pivotal connection of the axle arm to the chassis of the vehicle is a hinge-connector. P16022PC00 5

[0036] In an embodiment of the present invention a movable connection of the axle arm to the chassis of the vehicle is a hinge-connection.

[0037] In an embodiment of the present invention a movable connection of the central frame structure to the axle arm comprises a rotational connection.

[0038] In an embodiment of the present invention the proximal axle arm is connected to the chassis of the vehicle by cross-bar supporters.

[0039] In an embodiment of the present invention the axle connection and drive system further comprises a vehicle drive shaft.

[0040] In an embodiment of the present invention the vehicle drive shaft is divided into a main vehicle drive shaft and a connecting drive shaft.

[0041] The axle connection and drive system according to claim, wherein the main vehicle drive shaft and the connecting drive shaft are connected by a connector allowing pivotal movement of the axle arm.

[0042] In an embodiment of the present invention the main vehicle drive shaft is positioned under the vehicle, or within the chassis of the vehicle or in a central frame structure arranged in or to the chassis of the vehicle, and wherein the connecting drive shaft is arranged within the axle arm.

[0043] In an embodiment of the present invention the central drive shaft is positioned in the central frame structure.

[0044] In an embodiment of the present invention the connection or connector between the main vehicle drive shaft and the connecting drive shaft comprises a U - joint.

[0045] In an embodiment of the present invention the axle connection and drive system further comprises an axle angle regulator / controller.

[0046] In an embodiment of the present invention the axle angle regulator / controller is connected to the chassis of the vehicle and connected to the wheel and axle assembly for maintaining / controlling / regulating a vertical spindle "tilt" of the front and rear axles during pivotal movement of the distal end of the wheel and axle assembly.

[0047] In an embodiment of the present invention the connection of the axle angle regulator / controller to the chassis of the vehicle and the connection of the axle angle regulator / controller to the wheel and axle assembly is adapted for maintaining / controlling / regulating a vertical spindle "tilt" of the front and rear axles during pivotal movement of the distal end of the wheel and axle assembly.

[0048] In an embodiment of the present invention the connection of the axle angle regulator / controller to the vehicle chassis is arranged centrally to the vehicle chassis. P16022PC00 6

[0049] In an embodiment of the present invention the axle angle regulator / controller is connected to the vehicle chassis by a hinge connection.

[0050] In an embodiment of the present invention the connection of the axle angle regulator / controller to the wheel and axle assembly is connected to the housing of the wheel and axle assembly.

[0051] In an embodiment of the present invention the connection of the axle angle regulator / controller to the wheel and axle assembly allows at least a two-axis movement.

[0052] In an embodiment of the present invention the connection of the axle angle regulator / controller to the wheel and axle assembly allows three-axis movement.

[0053] In an embodiment of the present invention the connection of the axle angle regulator / controller to the wheel and axle assembly allows rotational movement of the wheel and axle assembly.

[0054] In an embodiment of the present invention the axle connection and drive system further comprises suspension devices for the left and right side of the vehicle.

[0055] In an embodiment of the present invention the suspension devices for the left and right side of the vehicle comprise springs and / or shock absorbers.

[0056] In an embodiment of the present invention the shock absorbers of the left and right suspension elements for the front and rear wheel set units further comprise a telescopic shock absorber.

[0057] In an embodiment of the present invention an extension or retraction of the telescopic shock absorbers of the left and right suspension elements for the front and rear wheel set units may be controlled / regulated.

[0058] In an embodiment of the present invention the suspension devices for the left and right side of the vehicle are arranged between the chassis and the front and rear axles.

[0059] In an embodiment of the present invention the suspension devices for the left and right side of the vehicle are arranged between the chassis and the proximal axle arm.

[0060] In an embodiment of the present invention the vehicle further comprises a central frame structure arranged in or to the chassis of the vehicle.

[0061] In an embodiment of the present invention the central frame structure houses components such as a vehicle drive shaft, shift shaft and steering components.

[0062] In an embodiment of the present invention the central frame structure and / or the axle arm comprise a housing. P16022PC00 7

[0063] In an embodiment of the present invention the proximal axle arm and distal axle arm comprise a rigid structure or a housing.

[0064] In an embodiment of the present invention the central frame structure and / or the axle arm comprise a housing.

[0065] In an embodiment of the present invention the axle arm is pivotally connected to the central frame structure of the vehicle by a hinge-connection.

[0066] In an embodiment of the present invention the movable connection of the central frame structure to the axle arm comprises a hinge-connection.

[0067] In an embodiment of the present invention the axle arm is pivotally connected to the central frame structure.

[0068] In an embodiment of the present invention the movable connection of the axle arm to a central frame structure is a hinge-connection.

[0069] In an embodiment of the present invention the vehicle further comprises a mechanical steering mechanism.

[0070] In an embodiment of the present invention the axle connection and drive system further comprises a steering shaft for the wheel and axle assembly.

[0071] In an embodiment of the present invention the wheel and axle assembly further comprise steering machine system for the wheels.

[0072] In an embodiment of the present invention the axle connection and drive system further comprises a drive shaft for the steering components machine of the wheel and axle assembly.

[0073] In an embodiment of the present invention the steering shaft for the wheel and axle assembly comprises at a central steering shaft within the central frame structure and a connecting steering shaft within the axle arm, and wherein the central steering shaft and the connecting steering shaft are connected by a U-joint and a drawbar to allow flexibility for pivotal movement of the axle arm.

[0074] In an embodiment of the present invention the connecting steering shaft is divided into a proximal and distal connecting steering shaft.

[0075] In an embodiment of the present invention the proximal and distal connecting steering shafts are connected by a U-joint and a drawbar to allow rotation of the distal axle arm of the axle arm around a central axis to reduce or eliminate any effect on the steering system in the rotation caused by the misalignment of the wheels. P16022PC00 8

[0076] In an embodiment of the present invention the steering system for the wheel and axle assembly is an electrical steering system or a hydraulic steering system.

[0077] In an embodiment of the present invention the axle connection and drive system further comprises a torque tube for the steering system of the wheel and axle assembly.

[0078] In an embodiment of the present invention the torque tube for the steering system of the wheel and axle assembly comprises central torque tube within the central frame structure and a connecting torque tube within the axle arm, and wherein the central torque tube and the connecting torque tube are connected by a spline or clamping mechanism to allow flexibility for pivotal movement of the front and rear drive shaft frame.

[0079] In an embodiment of the present invention the connecting torque tube is divided into a proximal and distal connecting torque tube.

[0080] In an embodiment of the present invention the wheel and axle assembly further comprise a transmission mechanism for the wheel and axle assembly.

[0081] In an embodiment of the present invention the axle connection and drive system further comprises a shift shaft for the wheel and axle assembly.

[0082] In an embodiment of the present invention the shift shaft comprises central shift shaft within the central frame structure and a connecting shift shaft within the axle arm.

[0083] In an embodiment of the present invention the connecting shift shaft is divided into a proximal and distal connecting shift shaft.

[0084] In an embodiment of the present invention the central shift and the proximal and distal connecting shift shafts are connected by a U-joint and a drawbar to allow flexibility for pivotal movement of the axle arm and a rotation of the proximal and distal ends of the axle arm around the swivel joint.

[0085] In an embodiment of the present invention the shift shaft for the wheel and axle assembly comprises a drawbar.

[0086] In an embodiment of the present invention the proximal and distal torque tubes are connected by a spline or clamping mechanism to allow rotation of the distal axle arm of the front axle arm and / or the rear axle arm around a central axis.

[0087] In an embodiment of the present invention the axle connection and drive system is arranged for the front and / or the rear wheel and axle assembly.

[0088] In an embodiment of the present invention the front and rear parts of the axle connection and drive system are a mirror like image. P16022PC00 9

[0089] In an embodiment of the present invention the transfer of drive from the vehicle engine to the front and rear wheels is a mechanical transfer.

[0090] In an embodiment of the present invention the wheels are rotated by an electrical motor.

[0091] In an embodiment of the present invention the wheels are rotated by a hydraulic motor.

[0092] In an embodiment of the present invention the mechanical transfer of drive to the front and rear wheels is further supported by hydraulics and / or electronics.

[0093] In an embodiment of the present invention the front and / or rear wheel axles are portal, wherein the differential is higher than the centreline of the wheels in a forward driving position.

[0094] In an embodiment of the present invention the left and right portal parts of the wheel and axle assembly are rotatable around the axis of the axle assemblies for maintaining a vertical spindle "tilt" of the front and rear axles during pivotal movement of the distal end of the front and rear drive shaft frame.

[0095] In an embodiment of the present invention the wheel and axle assembly comprises a downshift gear which can be switched to a direct drive to the wheel, provides a reduction of the load on the drive line when driving slowly, but has a direct drive when driving fast.

[0096] In an embodiment of the present invention the gear shifting on the wheel and axle assembly comprises pulling the drive shafts, or gear shift axles, inward and outward.

[0097] In an embodiment of the present invention the axle connection and drive system is adapted to operate with a vehicle comprising at least one belt crawler unit connected to the vehicle chassis, said at least one belt crawler unit further comprising a front and a rear vertical telescopic suspension elements for raising or lowering the at least one belt crawler unit to or from the ground.

[0098] In an embodiment of the present invention the at least one belt crawler unit further comprises front and rear frame arms and a front and rear wheel rotatably connected to the distal end of the front frame arm and rear frame arms respectively.

[0099] In an embodiment of the present invention each of the front and rear telescopic suspension elements for the left and right side of the vehicle and the front and rear vertical telescopic suspension elements of the at least one belt crawler unit may be independently controlled.

[0100] In an embodiment of the present invention each of the front and rear telescopic suspension elements for the left and right side of the vehicle and the front and rear vertical telescopic suspension elements of the at least one belt crawler unit are controlled by a computing device. P16022PC00 10

[0101] In an embodiment of the present invention the control of each of the front and rear telescopic suspension elements for the left and right side of the vehicle and the front and rear vertical telescopic suspension elements of the at least one belt crawler unit is synchronized.

[0102] Description of various embodiments

[0103] The present invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description given hereinafter and the accompanying drawings which are given by way of illustration only, and thus, are not limitative of the present invention, and wherein:

[0104] FIG. 1 is a top view of the axle connection and drive system of the present invention.

[0105] FIG. 2 is a top view of the axle connection and drive system outlining movable connectors of the system.

[0106] FIG. 3 is a side view of the axle connection and drive system showing pivotal movement of the axle arm.

[0107] FIG. 4 is a front view drawing of the wheel and axle assembly showing uneven suspension allowed by the axle arm.

[0108] FIG. 5 is a top view of an axle arm with components of the drive, shift and steering system.

[0109] FIG. 6 is a perspective top / side view showing an axle arm connected to a portal axle assembly.

[0110] FIG. 7 is a perspective view from the centre of the vehicle showing an axle arm connected to a portal axle assembly.

[0111] FIG. 8 shows a is a top view drawing of belt-crawler undercarriage with a drivetrain and suspension system for a vehicle.

[0112] FIG. 9 shows a side view of a shape changeable belt crawler unit in mounted on a vehicle.

[0113] Figure 1 is a schematic drawing of an axle connection and drive system for a vehicle 1, according to the present invention, where the drawing shows the components for either the front or the rear wheel and axle assembly. The wheel and axle assembly is shown with left and right wheels 2 and an axle 3. An axle arm 4 provides a mechanical and functional connection between the chassis of the vehicle and the wheel and axle assembly. The axle arm 4 is pivotally connected 5 to the chassis 6 of the vehicle for pivotal movement of the distal end of the axle arm 4 and thereby the wheel and axle assembly. The axle arm 4 is also movably connected by 7 to the wheel and axle assembly by a mechanical connector allowing at least two ways of movement around the P16022PC00 11 connection 7. The axle arm 4 is divided into a proximal 9 and distal 10 axle arm, which are joined by rotational joint 11. The rotational joint, which is preferably a swivel 11 allows rotation of the distal axle arm around a central axis of the axle arm, which enables uneven suspension of the left and right wheels of the wheel and axle assembly. The drawing further shows an axle angle regulator / controller 8 for maintaining a correct spindle angle of the wheel and axle assembly.

[0114] Figure 2 is a schematic drawing of the axle connection and drive system shown in Fig.l further demonstrating movable connectors of the components in Fig. 1. The axle arm 4 provides a mechanical and functional connection between the chassis of the vehicle and the wheel and axle assembly. The axle arm 4 is connected to the chassis 6 of the vehicle by a connector 5 (dotted line) for pivotal movement of the distal end of the axle arm 4 and thereby the wheel and axle assembly. The connector 5 may be a hinge connection or a rotational connection to the chassis as shown in the drawing. The movable mechanical connection 7 (dotted line) of the axle arm 4 to the wheel and axle assembly shown in this embodiment allows at least two ways of movement around the connection 7. Firstly, a rotational movement for enabling the pivotal movement of the axle arm 4, which is required for portal axle assembly, and then vertical movement of the left and right side of the wheel and axle assembly enabling uneven suspension. The swivel joint connecting axle arm 4 is divided into a proximal 9 and distal 10 axle arm enables the rotation of the distal axle arm around a central axis of the axle arm during uneven suspension of the left and right side of the axle. The drawing further shows the arrangement of the vehicle drive shaft 12, where the vehicle drive shaft 12 is divided into a main vehicle drive shaft 12a and the connecting drive shaft 12b. The main vehicle drive shaft 12a is positioned under the vehicle or within the chassis 6 of the vehicle, whereas the connecting drive shaft 12b is positioned within the structure of the axle arm 4. The main vehicle drive shaft 12a and the connecting drive shaft 12b are connected by a connector 13 which is positioned to enable the pivotal movement of the axle arm 4. The connector 13 of the main vehicle drive shaft 12a and the connecting drive shaft 12b may be a U-joint as shown in this drawing. The axle angle regulator / controller 8 is shown being connected to the chassis 6 and to the wheel and axle assembly. The connection 14 of the axle angle regulator / controller to the vehicle chassis 6 is arranged centrally to the vehicle chassis 6, and the connector 14 is a hinge connector in this embodiment. The connection 15 of the axle angle regulator / controller to the wheel and axle assembly is a connector allowing at least a two-axis movement around the connector, including the pivotal movement of the axle arm 4 and uneven suspension of the left and right wheels of the wheel and axle assembly. The drawing further shows suspension devices 16 for the left and right side of the vehicle are arranged to the proximal axle arm 10. P16022PC00 12

[0115] Figure 3 shows a transactional side view of the components of the axle connection and drive system demonstrating the change of position during pivotal movement of the axle arm. In Fig. 3a the axle arm 4 is shown in a lateral position in line with the direction of the chassis 6 of the vehicle. The proximal axle arm 9 and the distal axle arm 10 comprise a separate frame structure or housing 9a, 10a for each of the proximal and distal axle arm portions. The main vehicle drive shaft 12a is positioned in the central frame structure 17 arranged with the chassis 6 of the vehicle, where the main vehicle drive shaft 12a and the connecting drive shaft 12b are directed in the same lateral direction. The connecting drive shaft 12b is shown connected to the axle of the wheel and axle assembly. The drawing shows that the pivotal connection 5 (dotted line) of the axle arm 4 to the chassis 6 is parallel to the to the connector 13 between the main vehicle drive shaft 12a and the connecting drive shaft 12b along a central axis X of the axle arm 4. The movable connection 7 (dotted line) of the axle arm 4 to the wheel 2 and axle 3 assembly is shown in front of the axle 3 also along the central axis X of the axle arm 4. The swivel joint 11 is shown connecting the proximal 9 and distal 10 axle arm portions and the axle angle regulator / controller 8 is shown being connected 14 to the chassis 6 and being connected 15 to the housing 18 of the wheel and axle assembly. The drawing shows a suspension device 16, arranged to the proximal axle arm 10, being retracted. In Fig. 3B the axle arm 4 is shown being lowered through pivotal movement of the axle arm 4. The main vehicle drive shaft 12a is directed in the same lateral direction as the chassis 6 of the vehicle, whereas the connecting drive shaft 12b is directed along a central axis X of the axle arm 4. The drawing shows the suspension device 16 being extended.

[0116] Figure 4 shows movement and rotation of some parts of the axle connection and drive system of the present invention during uneven suspension of the left and right wheels of the wheel and axle assembly. The drawing shows wheels 2 connected to a portal axle 3a connected to the distal axle arm 10 of the system. The axle angle regulator / controller 8 is shown at it's connection point to the portal axle 3a and the cross-bar supporters 29 are shown at their connection point to the proximal axle arm 9. In Fig. 4A there is even suspension of the left and right wheels of the wheel and axle assembly, where as Fig. 4B shows the left and right wheels of the wheel and axle assembly in an uneven suspension situation. When the joint connecting the proximal axle arm 9 and the distal axle arm 10 allows rotation of the distal axle arm 10 around a central axis X of the axle arm an uneven suspension of the left and right wheels occurs. This is supported by the axle angle regulator / controller 8 which is movably connected by to the wheel and axle assembly and is adapted for maintaining or controlling / or regulating a vertical spindle "tilt" of the front and rear axles during pivotal movement of the distal end of the wheel and axle assembly. The cross-bar supporters 29 and have a function in increasing the P16022PC00 13 strength and stability of the connection of the axle arm to the chassis for side movements or turning of the vehicle.

[0117] Figure 5 shows an embodiment of the axle connection and drive system of the present invention, where connection of components for the drive system, the transmission system and the steering system are arranged within a central housing 17 underneath the vehicle and within the proximal 9 and distal portion 10 of the axle arm. In this embodiment a central housing 17 is arranged to the chassis, to house functional components of a drivetrain of a vehicle. As described above, the distal portion 10 of the axle arm is pivotally connected 5 to the chassis 6 of the vehicle and in this embodiment the distal portion of the axle arm is adjacent to an opening of the central housing 17. Starting with the drive shaft, the main vehicle drive shaft 12a is positioned in the central frame structure 17, whereas the connecting drive shaft 12b within the proximal 9 and distal 10 portions of the axle arm. The connection or connector 13 between the main vehicle drive shaft 12a and the connecting drive shaft 12b is shown in the same position as the pivotal connection 7 of the proximal 9 portion of the axle arm to the chassis 6. The connecting drive shaft is centrally positioned within the axle arm, so no disconnection of the connecting drive shaft 12b is required between the proximal 9 and distal 10 portions of the axle arm.

[0118] The drawing also shows a drive shaft for the steering components (machine) of the wheel and axle assembly. The steering shaft is divided into a central steering shaft 19a within the central frame structure 17 and a connecting steering shaft within the axle arm, where the connecting steering shaft is divided into a proximal 19b and distal 19c connecting steering shaft. The central steering shaft 19a and the proximal connecting steering shaft 19b are connected by a U-joint 20 and a drawbar 21 to allow flexibility for pivotal movement of the axle arm and a rotation of the proximal and distal ends of the axle arm around the swivel joint. Furthermore, the proximal 19b and distal 19c connecting steering shafts are connected by a U-joint 22 and a drawbar to allow rotation of the distal axle arm around a central axis to reduce or eliminate any effect on the steering system in the rotation caused by the misalignment of the wheels 2.

[0119] The drawing further shows a gear shaft (shift shaft) of a down shift gear shaft for a transmission mechanism for the wheel and axle assembly. The shift shaft is divided into a central shift shaft 23a within the central frame structure 17 and a connecting shift shaft within the axle arm, where the connecting shift shaft is divided into a proximal 23b and distal 23c connecting shift shaft. The central shift shaft 23a and the proximal connecting shift shaft 23b are connected by a U-joint 24 and a drawbar 25 to allow flexibility for pivotal movement of the axle arm and a rotation of the proximal and distal ends of the axle arm around the swivel joint. The proximal 23b and distal 23c connecting shift shafts are also connected by a U-joint 26 and a drawbar. P16022PC00 14

[0120] Figure 6 is a perspective view from above and from the side showing an axle arm 4 connected to a portal axle assembly. The drawing shows a wheel 2 connected to a portal axle 3a covered by a housing 18 as well as the connecting drive shaft 12b in the space of the distal portion 28b of the axle arm 4. The proximal axle arm 9 and distal axle arm 10 are shown as a rigid structure or a housing 28a, 28b and the swivel 11 is visible within the distal axle arm housing 28b. The axle angle regulator / controller is shown positioned above and extending along the length of the proximal axle arm 9 and distal axle arm 10 and into the housing 18 of the portal axle 3a and being connected to the wheel and axle assembly by connector 7. The figure also shows a cross-bar supporters 29 connected to the proximal axle arm and having connectors to be attached to the chassis of the vehicle for increasing stability of the axle arm, specifically in side movements when turning of the vehicle or to support side force on the vehicle.

[0121] Figure 7 is a perspective view from above in a forward direction showing an axle arm connected to a portal axle assembly. The figure shows the rotation of the distal axle arm around a central axis of the axle arm enabled by the swivel joint 11 in an uneven suspension of the left and right side of the axle. The drawing shows a wheel 2 connected to a portal axle 3a covered by a housing 18. The rigid structure or a housing 28a of the proximal axle arm and of the distal axle arm 28b are shown the swivel 11 is visible within the proximal axle arm housing 28a. The figure also shows the connecting drive shaft in the space of the proximal portion 28a of the axle arm as well as the proximal connecting steering shaft 19b and the proximal connecting shift shaft 23b.

[0122] Figure 8 is a schematic top view drawing of the axle connection and drive system for a vehicle with a belt-crawler undercarriage capable of shape change of each belt-crawler unit between a linear shape and a triangular shape. The drawing shows the right belt crawler unit 30a and the left belt crawler unit 30b in relation to the undercarriage axle connection and drive system of a four-wheel vehicle as well as the suspension system for both the vehicle and the belt-crawler undercarriage. A front and rear wheel and axle assembly is shown with front and rear wheels 2 and a front and rear axle 3, with a front and rear axle arm 4 pivotally connected 5 to the chassis 6 of the vehicle movably connected by 7 to the front and rear wheel and axle assembly respectively. The main vehicle drive shaft 12a (dotted line) is shown being connected 13 to the front and rear connecting drive shafts (dotted lines) 12b within the proximal 9 and distal 10 portions of the front and rear axle arm respectively.

[0123] The main vehicle drive shaft is connected to the belt axle 31 of the right 30a and left 30b belt crawler units for mechanical transfer from the vehicle drive shaft to the belt-crawler undercarriage. The axle connection and drive system shown in Fig. 8 further comprises a left and right suspension unit 16a / 16b for the front and the rear wheel and axle assembly. The front suspension devices 16a are arranged between the chassis 6 and the P16022PC00 15 proximal axle arm 9, whereas the rear suspension devices 16b are arranged between the chassis and the rear axles to indicate two different embodiments of the invention. The front and the rear suspension devices may be used for raising or lowering the front and rear wheels of the vehicle in relation to the position of the belt-crawler undercarriage and the terrain the vehicle is passing. The drawing further indicates vertical suspension devices 32 of the belt-crawler undercarriage which partially control the shape change of each belt-crawler unit between a linear shape and a triangular shape. Each suspension element of the axle connection and drive system for the vehicle as well as each of the suspension elements of the belt-crawler undercarriage may be independently controlled and synchronized by a computing device when changing the shape of each belt crawler unit between a linear shape and a triangular shape.

[0124] Figure 9 is a side view of a shape changeable belt crawler unit in mounted on a vehicle 1. In Fig 9A the belt crawler unit 30 is in a linear shape with the lateral telescopic suspension element 33 of the longitudinal telescopic connection arm 34 fully extended and the front and rear adjustable vertical suspension elements 32a, 32b are retracted. The front wheel suspension devices 16a and the rear wheel suspension devices 16b are also shown in relation to the front and rear wheels of the vehicle. The drawing shows the axle arms 4a, 4b from the front and rear wheel set units extending from the front and rear axles 3 towards the centre of the chassis 6. In Fig. 9B the belt crawler has a triangular shape, where the lateral telescopic suspension element 33 of the longitudinal telescopic connection arm 34 is retracting, but the front and rear adjustable vertical suspension elements 32a, 32b as well as the telescopic suspension element 35 of the rear pivotal frame arm 36 are extending. Furthermore, the sloping of the frame arms 4a, 4b is increased with extension of the front and rear wheel suspension devices 16a, 16b as compared to when the belt crawler unit 2 is in a linear shape.

[0125] As used herein, including in the claims, singular forms of terms are to be construed as also including the plural form and vice versa, unless the context indicates otherwise. Thus, it should be noted that as used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0126] Throughout the description and claims, the terms "comprise", "including", "having", and "contain" and their variations should be understood as meaning "including but not limited to", and are not intended to exclude other components.

[0127] The present invention also covers the exact terms, features, values and ranges etc. in case these terms, features, values and ranges etc. are used in conjunction with terms such as about, around, generally, substantially, essentially, at least etc. (i.e., "about 3" shall also cover exactly 3 or "substantially constant" shall also cover exactly constant). P16022PC00 16

[0128] The term "at least one" should be understood as meaning "one or more", and therefore includes both embodiments that include one or multiple components. Furthermore, dependent claims that refer to independent claims that describe features with "at least one" have the same meaning, both when the feature is referred to as "the" and "the at least one".

[0129] It will be appreciated that variations to the foregoing embodiments of the invention can be made while still falling within the scope of the invention. Features disclosed in the specification, unless stated otherwise, can be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose. Thus, unless stated otherwise, each feature disclosed represents one example of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

[0130] Use of exemplary language, such as "for instance", "such as", "for example" and the like, is merely intended to better illustrate the invention and does not indicate a limitation on the scope of the invention unless so claimed. Any steps described in the specification may be performed in any order or simultaneously, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0131] All of the features and / or steps disclosed in the specification can be combined in any combination, except for combinations where at least some of the features and / or steps are mutually exclusive. In particular, preferred features of the invention are applicable to all aspects of the invention and may be used in any combination.

Claims

P16022PC00 17Claims1. An axle connection and drive system for a vehicle (1), the system comprising:- a wheel and axle assembly comprising left and right wheels (2) and an axle (3),- an axle arm (4) centrally arranged from a pivotal connection (5) to the chassis (6) of the vehicle to a movable connection (7) of the wheel and axle assembly, and characterised in that the axle arm (4) is divided into a proximal axle arm (9) and a distal axle arm (10) connected by a joint (11), wherein the joint (11) allows a rotation of the distal axle arm around a central axis (X) of the axle arm to enable uneven suspension of the left and right wheels.

2. The axle connection and drive system according to claim 1, wherein the joint between the proximal and distal axle arm is a swivel (11).

3. The axle connection and drive system according to claim 1, wherein the pivotal connection of the axle arm to the chassis (6) of the vehicle is a hinge-connection (5).

4. The axle connection and drive system according to claim 1, further comprising a vehicle drive shaft 12.

5. The axle connection and drive system according to claim 1, wherein the joint between the proximal axle arm (9) and distal axle (10) arm is hollow for allowing the drive shaft (12) to be arranged through the joint (11).

6. The axle connection and drive system according to claim 4, wherein the main vehicle drive shaft (12a) and the connecting drive shaft (12b) are connected by a connector (13) allowing pivotal movement of the axle arm (4).

7. The axle connection and drive system according to claim 4, wherein the connecting drive shaft (12b) is arranged within the axle arm (4).

8. The axle connection and drive system according to claim 1, further comprising an axle angle regulator / controller (8).

9. The axle connection and drive system according to claim 1, wherein the axle angle regulator / controller 8 is connected 14 to the chassis of the vehicle and connected 15 to the wheel and axle assembly for maintaining / controlling / regulating a vertical spindle "tilt" of the front and rear axles during pivotal movement of the distal end of the wheel and axle assembly.P16022PC00 1810. The axle connection and drive system according to claim 1, wherein the axle connection and drive system is arranged for the front and / or the rear wheel and axle assembly.

11. The axle connection and drive system according to claim 1, wherein the front and rear parts of the axle connection and drive system are a mirror like image.

12. The axle connection and drive system according to claim 1, further comprising suspension devices (16) for the left and right side of the vehicle.

13. The axle connection and drive system according to claim 12, wherein the suspension devices for the left and right side of the vehicle are arranged between the chassis and the proximal axle arm.

14. The axle connection and drive system according to claim 1, wherein the front and / or rear wheel axles are portal axles.

15. The axle connection and drive system according to claim 1, wherein the axle connection and drive system is adapted to operate with a vehicle comprising at least one belt crawler unit connected to the vehicle chassis, said at least one belt crawler unit further comprising a front and a rear vertical telescopic suspension elements (x,y) for raising or lowering the at least one belt crawler unit to or from the ground.

16. The axle connection and drive system according to claim 15, wherein the at least one belt crawler unit is configured for changing the shape of the belt crawler unit between a linear shape and a multi-shape formation, such as a triangular shape.

Images