Endless track and method for manufacturing same

Abstract

An endless track for a track system having a carcass with a plurality of reinforcement layers within the carcass. An innermost reinforcement layer comprises a plurality of innermost reinforcing members and an end innermost reinforcing member is spaced from a side edge by an innermost layer lateral distance. An outermost reinforcement layer comprises a plurality of outermost reinforcing members and an end outermost reinforcing member is spaced from the side edge by an outermost layer lateral distance. At least one intermediary reinforcement layer comprises a plurality of intermediary reinforcing members and an end intermediary reinforcing member is spaced from the edge by an intermediary layer lateral distance. The outermost layer lateral distance is less than, or more than, the innermost layer lateral distance and the intermediary layer lateral distance; and the intermediary layer lateral distance is at most substantially equal to the innermost layer lateral distance.

Description

ENDLESS TRACK AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING SAME TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present technology relates to endless tracks and track systems comprising such endless tracks.BACKGROUND

[0002] Certain vehicles, such as, for example, agricultural vehicles (e.g., harvesters, combines, tractors, etc.), construction vehicles (e.g., bulldozers, front-end loaders, etc.), all-terrain vehicles (ATV) and utility task vehicles (UTV) are used on ground surfaces that are soft, slippery and / or uneven (e.g., soil, mud, sand, ice, snow, etc.).

[0003] Conventionally, such vehicles have had large wheels with tires on them to move the vehicles along the ground surface. Under certain conditions, such tires may have poor traction on some kinds of ground surfaces and, as these vehicles are generally heavy, the tires may compact the ground surface in an undesirable way owing to the weight of the vehicles.

[0004] In order to reduce the aforementioned drawbacks, to increase traction and to distribute the weight of the vehicle over a larger area on the ground surface, track systems were developed to be used in place of at least some of the wheels and tires on the vehicles. For example, under certain conditions, track systems enable agricultural vehicles to be used in wet field conditions unlike its wheeled counterpart.

[0005] Conventional track systems do, however, present some inconveniences. For example, endless tracks of these conventional track systems are subjected to uneven load distribution, which can lead to high stresses and high heat generation within the endless track, both causing premature wear of the endless track of the track system.306671448.1 14104 / 1242

[0006] Therefore, there is a desire for endless tracks and track systems including such endless tracks that can mitigate the above-mentioned issues.SUMMARY

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

[0008] In the context of the following description, “laterally outwardly” or “laterally outward” means away from a longitudinal center plane of the track system, and “laterally inwardly” or “laterally inward” means toward the longitudinal center plane. In addition, in the context of the following description, “longitudinally” means in a direction parallel to the longitudinal center plane of the track system in a plane parallel to flat level ground, “laterally” means in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal center plane in a plane parallel to flat level ground, and “generally vertically” means in a direction contained in the longitudinal center plane, or parallel to the longitudinal center plane, along a height direction of the track system generally perpendicular to flat level ground. In the following description and accompanying Figures, the track system is configured to be attached to a right side of the chassis of the vehicle.

[0009] According to one aspect of the present technology, there is provided an endless track for a track system, the endless track comprising: a carcass having an inner surface engageable by at least one wheel assembly, and an outer surface engageable to a ground surface, the carcass being made of an elastomeric material; a plurality of reinforcement layers embedded within the carcass, each reinforcement layer having a plurality of reinforcing members, the plurality of reinforcement layers comprising: an innermost reinforcement layer which is disposed closest to the inner surface compared to the other reinforcement layers, the innermost reinforcement layer comprising a plurality of innermost reinforcing members and wherein an end innermost reinforcing member is spaced from one of a left side edge or a right side edge of the carcass by an innermost layer lateral distance; an outermost reinforcement layer which is disposed closest to the outer surface compared to the other reinforcement layers, the outermost reinforcement layer comprising a plurality of outermost reinforcing members and wherein an end outermost306671448.1 14104 / 1242reinforcing member is spaced from the one of the left side edge or the right side edge of the carcass by an outermost layer lateral distance; at least one intermediary reinforcement layer disposed between the innermost and the outermost reinforcement layers, the at least one intermediary reinforcement layer comprising a plurality of intermediary reinforcing members and wherein an end intermediary reinforcing member is spaced from the one of the left side edge or the right side edge of the carcass by an intermediary layer lateral distance; wherein: the outermost layer lateral distance is less than, or more than, the innermost layer lateral distance and the intermediary layer lateral distance; and the intermediary layer lateral distance is at most substantially equal to the innermost layer lateral distance.

[0010] In certain embodiments, the at least one intermediary reinforcement layer comprises a plurality of intermediary reinforcement layers, each intermediary reinforcement layer comprising a plurality of intermediary reinforcing members, and each end intermediary reinforcing member of each intermediary reinforcement layers being spaced from the one of the left side edge or the right side edge of the carcass by the intermediary layer lateral distance. The outermost layer lateral distance is less than, or more than, the intermediary layer lateral distance of all the intermediary reinforcement layers; and the intermediary layer lateral distance of all the intermediary reinforcement layers is at most substantially equal to the innermost layer lateral distance. In other embodiments, the outermost layer lateral distance is less than, or more than, the intermediary layer lateral distance of at least one of the intermediary reinforcement layers; and the intermediary layer lateral distance of at least one of the intermediary reinforcement layers is at most substantially equal to the innermost layer lateral distance.

[0011] In certain embodiments, the at least one intermediary reinforcement layer comprises a single intermediary reinforcement layer.

[0012] In certain embodiments, the innermost layer lateral distance is the same as the intermediary layer lateral distance. In certain embodiments, in which there are provided a plurality of intermediary reinforcement layers, the innermost layer lateral distance is the same as the intermediary layer lateral distance of all the intermediary reinforcement layers.306671448.1 14104 / 1242In other embodiments, the innermost layer lateral distance is the same as the intermediary layer lateral distance of at least one of the intermediary reinforcement layers.

[0013] In certain embodiments, a lateral span of the outermost reinforcement layer is larger than a lateral span of the innermost reinforcement layer and is larger than a lateral span of the at least one intermediary reinforcement layer. In certain embodiments, in which there are provided a plurality of intermediary reinforcement layers, a lateral span of the outermost reinforcement layer is larger than a lateral span of all the intermediary reinforcement layers. In other embodiments, a lateral span of the outermost reinforcement layer is larger than a lateral span of at least one of the intermediary reinforcement layers.

[0014] In certain embodiments, a cross-sectional diameter of the outermost reinforcing members of the outermost reinforcement layer and a cross-sectional diameter of the intermediary reinforcing members of the intermediary reinforcement layer are smaller than a cross-sectional diameter of the innermost reinforcing members of the innermost reinforcement layer. In certain embodiments, in which there are provided a plurality of intermediary reinforcement layers, the cross-sectional diameter of the intermediary reinforcing members of all the intermediary reinforcement layers are smaller than a cross-sectional diameter of the innermost reinforcing members of the innermost reinforcement layer. In other embodiments, the cross-sectional diameter of the intermediary reinforcing members of at least one of the intermediary reinforcement layers are smaller than a cross-sectional diameter of the innermost reinforcing members of the innermost reinforcement layer.

[0015] In certain embodiments, a spacing between the innermost reinforcing members is more than a spacing between the intermediary reinforcing members. In certain embodiments, in which there are provided a plurality of intermediary reinforcement layers, a spacing between the innermost reinforcing members is more than a spacing between the intermediary reinforcing members of all the intermediary reinforcement layers. In other embodiments, a spacing between the innermost reinforcing members is more than a spacing between the intermediary reinforcing members of at least one of the intermediary reinforcement layers.306671448.1 14104 / 1242

[0016] In certain embodiments, a distance between a bottom surface of given innermost reinforcing member and a top surface of a given adjacent intermediary reinforcing member is at least about 0.5x of a diameter of the given intermediary reinforcing member.

[0017] In certain embodiments, the carcass has a centre-line extending longitudinally along the carcass between the left and right side edges, and an innermost longitudinal axis of the innermost reinforcing members has a first angle relative to the centre-line, an intermediary longitudinal axis of the intermediary reinforcing members of the at least one intermediary reinforcement layer has a second angle relative to the centreline, an outermost longitudinal axis of the outermost reinforcing members has a third angle relative to the centre-line, wherein the first angle is different to the second angle.

[0018] In certain embodiments, the second angle is different to the third angle.

[0019] In certain embodiments, the first angle is zero degrees.

[0020] In certain embodiments, the third angle is about 90 degrees to the center line.

[0021] In certain embodiments, the intermediary reinforcement layer is a plurality of intermediary reinforcement layers comprising the intermediary reinforcement layer and at least one additional intermediary reinforcement layer, the at least one additional intermediary reinforcement layer having an end additional intermediary reinforcing member spaced from the one of the left side edge or the right side edge of the carcass by an additional intermediary layer lateral distance, the at least one additional intermediary reinforcement layer being disposed adjacent to the intermediary reinforcement layer and between the innermost and outermost reinforcement layers.

[0022] In certain embodiments, an outermost intermediary layer lateral distance is the same as the outermost layer lateral distance.

[0023] In certain embodiments, the additional intermediary layer lateral distance is the same as the intermediary layer lateral distance.306671448.1 14104 / 1242

[0024] In certain embodiments, a distance between facing surfaces of intermediary reinforcing members of adjacent intermediary reinforcement layers is at least about 0.5x of a diameter of the intermediary reinforcing member.

[0025] In certain embodiments, the endless track further comprises a plurality of lugs extending from the inner surface and being longitudinally spaced, each lug having a first wheel engaging portion on a first side and a second wheel engaging portion on a second side, the first and second wheel engaging portions having a respective width, the width being smaller than the span of the innermost, intermediary and outermost layers.

[0026] In certain embodiments, at least a portion of the outer surface is chamfered laterally.

[0027] From another aspect, there is provided an endless track for a track system, the endless track comprising: a carcass having an inner surface engageable by at least one wheel assembly, and an outer surface engageable to a ground surface, the carcass being made of an elastomeric material; a plurality of reinforcement layers embedded within the carcass, each reinforcement layer having a plurality of reinforcing members, the plurality of reinforcement layers comprising: an innermost reinforcement layer which is disposed closest to the inner surface compared to the other reinforcement layers, the innermost reinforcement layer comprising a plurality of innermost reinforcing members and wherein an end innermost reinforcing member is spaced from one of a left side edge or a right side edge of the carcass by an innermost layer lateral distance; an outermost reinforcement layer which is disposed closest to the outer surface compared to the other reinforcement layers, the outermost reinforcement layer comprising a plurality of outermost reinforcing members and wherein an end outermost reinforcing member is spaced from the one of the left side edge or the right side edge of the carcass by an outermost layer lateral distance; an outermost intermediary reinforcement layer disposed between the innermost and the outermost reinforcement layers and adjacent the outermost reinforcement layer, the outermost intermediary reinforcement layer comprising a plurality of outermost intermediary reinforcing members and wherein an end outermost intermediary reinforcing member is spaced from the one of the left side edge or the right side edge of the carcass by306671448.1 14104 / 1242an outermost intermediary layer lateral distance; an innermost intermediary reinforcement layer disposed between the innermost and the outermost reinforcement layers and adjacent the innermost reinforcement layer and the outermost intermediary reinforcement layer, the innermost intermediary reinforcement layer comprising a plurality of innermost intermediary reinforcing members and wherein an end innermost intermediary reinforcing member is spaced from the one of the left side edge or the right side edge of the carcass by an innermost intermediary layer lateral distance; wherein: the outermost layer lateral distance is less than, or more than, the innermost layer lateral distance, the innermost intermediary layer lateral distance, and the outermost intermediary layer lateral distance; and the innermost intermediary layer lateral distance and the outermost intermediary layer lateral distance is at most equal to the innermost layer lateral distance.

[0028] In certain embodiments, a cross-sectional diameter of the outermost reinforcing members, a cross-sectional diameter of the outermost intermediary reinforcing members, and a cross-sectional diameter of the innermost reinforcing members are smaller than a cross-sectional diameter of the innermost reinforcing members

[0029] In certain embodiments, a lateral spacing between adjacent ones of the innermost reinforcing members is more than a lateral spacing between adjacent ones of the innermost intermediary reinforcing members, and more than a lateral spacing between adjacent ones of the outermost intermediary reinforcing members.

[0030] In certain embodiments, a vertical spacing between the innermost reinforcement layer and the innermost intermediary reinforcement layer is greater than a vertical spacing between the innermost intermediary reinforcement layer and the outermost intermediary reinforcement layer, and between the outermost intermediary reinforcement layer and the outermost reinforcement layer.

[0031] In certain embodiments, a distance between the inner surface and a top surface of the innermost reinforcing member is at least about 0.5x of a diameter of the given innermost reinforcing member.306671448.1 14104 / 1242

[0032] In certain embodiments, a distance between a bottom surface of given innermost reinforcing member and a top surface of a given innermost intermediary reinforcing member is at least about 0.5x of a diameter of the given innermost intermediary reinforcing member.

[0033] In certain embodiments, a distance between a bottom surface of the innermost intermediary reinforcing member and a top surface of the outermost intermediary reinforcing member is at least about 0.5x of a diameter of the outermost intermediary reinforcing member.

[0034] In certain embodiments, the carcass has a centre-line extending longitudinally along the carcass between the left and right side edges, and an innermost longitudinal axis of the innermost reinforcing members has a first angle relative to the centre-line, an innermost intermediary longitudinal axis of the innermost intermediary reinforcing members has a second angle relative to the centre-line, an outermost intermediary longitudinal axis of the outermost intermediary reinforcing members has a third angle relative to the centre-line, an outermost longitudinal axis of the outermost reinforcing members has a fourth angle relative to the centre-line, wherein the first angle, the second angle, the third angle and the fourth angle are different to one another.

[0035] In certain embodiments, the first angle is zero degrees and the fourth angle is about 90 degrees.

[0036] In certain embodiments, one or both of the second angle and the third angle is between about 40 degrees and about 70 degrees to the center line.

[0037] From a yet further aspect, there is provided a track system comprising: a frame; wheel assemblies rotationally connected to the frame; and the endless track as described herein, the endless track surrounding the frame and the wheel assemblies.

[0038] From another aspect, there is provided a vehicle having a chassis, an engine and the track system as described herein.306671448.1 14104 / 1242

[0039] In the context of the present specification, unless expressly provided otherwise, the words “first”, “second”, “third”, etc. have been used as adjectives only for the purpose of allowing for distinction between the nouns that they modify from one another, and not for the purpose of describing any particular relationship between those nouns.

[0040] It must be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular form “a”, “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0041] As used herein, the term “about” in the context of a given value or range refers to a value or range that is within 20%, preferably within 10%, and more preferably within 5% of the given value or range.

[0042] As used herein, the term “and / or” is to be taken as specific disclosure of each of the two specified features or components with or without the other. For example, “A and / or B” is to be taken as specific disclosure of each of (i) A, (ii) B and (iii) A and B, just as if each is set out individually herein.

[0043] Implementations of the present technology each have at least one of the above-mentioned objects and / or aspects, but do not necessarily have all of them. It should be understood that some aspects of the present technology that have resulted from attempting to attain the above-mentioned object may not satisfy this object and / or may satisfy other objects not specifically recited herein.

[0044] Additional and / or alternative features, aspects, and advantages of implementations of the present technology will become apparent from the following description, the accompanying drawings, and the appended claims.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0045] For a better understanding of the present technology, as well as other aspects and further features thereof, reference is made to the following description which is to be used in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, where:306671448.1 14104 / 1242

[0046] Figure 1 is a right side elevation view of a harvester having a track system with an endless track;

[0047] Figure 2 is a perspective view taken from a top, front, right side of a portion of the endless track of Figure 1;

[0048] Figure 3 is a top plan view of the portion of the endless track of Figure 2;

[0049] Figure 4 is a perspective view taken from a bottom, rear, right side of the portion of the endless track of Figure 2;

[0050] Figure 5 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the portion of the endless track taken across the line A- A of Figure 3;

[0051] Figure 6A is a lateral cross-sectional view of the portion of the endless track taken across the line B-B of Figure 3 and showing certain embodiments of reinforcement layers according to the present technology;

[0052] Figure 6B is a top plan view of the portion of the endless track of Figure 3 and 6A with portions of the carcass removed and the reinforcement layers stair-cut for clarity;

[0053] Figure 6C is a close up portion of the endless track of Figure 6A;

[0054] Figure 7A is a lateral cross-sectional view of the portion of the endless track taken across the line B-B of Figure 3 and showing certain other embodiments of reinforcement layers according to the present technology;

[0055] Figure 7B is a top plan view of the portion of the endless track of Figure 3 and 7A with portions of the carcass removed and the reinforcement layers stair-cut for clarity;

[0056] Figure 7C is a close up portion of the endless track of Figure 7A;306671448.1 14104 / 1242

[0057] Figure 8A is a lateral cross-sectional view of the portion of the endless track taken across the line B-B of Figure 3 and showing certain other embodiments of reinforcement layers according to the present technology;

[0058] Figure 8B is a top plan view of the portion of the endless track of Figure 3 and 8A with portions of the carcass removed and the reinforcement layers stair-cut for clarity; and

[0059] Figure 8C is a close up portion of the endless track of Figure 8 A.

[0060] Figure 9A is a lateral cross-sectional view of the portion of the endless track taken across the line B-B of Figure 3 and showing certain other embodiments of reinforcement layers according to the present technology;

[0061] Figure 9B is a top plan view of the portion of the endless track of Figure 3 and 9A with portions of the carcass removed and the reinforcement layers stair-cut for clarity; and

[0062] Figure 9C is a close up portion of the endless track of Figure 9A.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0063] The present disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including”, “comprising”, or “having”, “containing”, “involving” and variations thereof herein, is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter as well as, optionally, additional items. In the following description, the same numerical references refer to similar elements.

[0064] The present technology relates to various embodiments of an endless track, and will be described with reference to a track system.306671448.1 14104 / 1242

[0065] Referring to Figure 1, a harvester 40 is shown. The harvester 40 has a frame 42 that houses an engine 44 (shown schematically). The harvester 40 also has left and right rear wheels 46 and left and right track systems 50 (only right rear wheel 46 and right track system 50 are shown in the accompanying Figures). It is contemplated that in some embodiments, the harvester 40 could have more than two track systems. The engine 44 is operatively connected to left and right track systems 50. It is contemplated that in some embodiments, the engine 44 could be operatively connected to the rear wheels 46. It is understood that the present technology could be used with other agricultural vehicles. Additionally, the present technology could also be used with other vehicles such as allterrain-vehicles, snowmobiles, side-by-side vehicles or utility-terrain vehicles. It is further contemplated that the present technology could be used with industrial vehicles, exploratory vehicles and / or military vehicles. It is also contemplated that the present technology could be used with trailers or other unpowered vehicles.

[0066] Still referring to Figure 1, the track system 50 has a driving wheel assembly 60 that is operatively connected to an axle (not shown) of the harvester 40, such that when the axle rotates, the driving wheel assembly 60 also rotates, thereby driving the track system 50. It is contemplated that in some embodiments, the driving wheel assembly 60 could be configured to connect to a non-driving axle of a vehicle. The driving wheel assembly 60 defines a plurality of recesses 62. The plurality of recesses 62 are defined circumferentially on a periphery of the driving wheel assembly 60. The recesses 62 are configured, as will be described in greater detail below, to engage with lugs 108 provided on an inner surface 104 of the endless track 100. Other driving configurations are contemplated as well.

[0067] The track system also has a frame 70 that is rotationally connected to the driving wheel assembly 60 and that is disposed laterally inwardly therefrom. It is contemplated that in other embodiments, the frame 70 could be disposed laterally outwardly from the driving wheel assembly 60. The frame 70 has a main frame member 72, a leading frame member 74 and a trailing frame member 76 where the leading and trailing frame members 74, 76 are pivotally connected to the main frame member 72.306671448.1 14104 / 1242

[0068] The track system 50 includes wheel assemblies. More precisely, the track system 50 includes the driving wheel assembly 60, a front idler wheel assembly 80, a rear idler wheel assembly 82 and three support wheel assemblies 84a, 84b, 84c which are disposed longitudinally between the front and rear idler wheel assemblies 80, 82. It is contemplated that in some embodiments, the track system 50 could have more or less than three support wheel assemblies.

[0069] The front idler wheel assembly 80 and the support wheel assembly 84a are rotationally connected to the leading frame member 74. The support wheel assemblies 84b, 84c are connected to form a tandem 86 which in turn is pivotally connected to the trailing frame member 76. The rear idler wheel assembly 82 is also connected to the trailing frame member 76. Thus, the track system 50 can, to some extent, conform to encountered obstacles. Other configurations are contemplated as well.

[0070] Each one of the front and rear idler wheel assemblies 80, 82, and / or of the support wheel assemblies 84a, 84b, 84c has two laterally spaced wheels, such that each one of the front and rear idler wheel assemblies 80, 82, and the support wheel assemblies 84a, 84b, 84c has left and right wheels (only the right wheel of each of the wheel assemblies 80, 82, 84 is shown in Figure 1). It is contemplated that in some embodiments, one or more of the front and rear idler wheel assemblies 80, 82, and the support wheel assemblies 84a, 84b, 84c could be configured to have a single wheel or three or more wheels.

[0071] It is contemplated that in some embodiments, the track system 50 could include a tensioner (not shown) that is configured to adjust and / or maintain tension in the endless track 100, as known in the art.

[0072] The endless track 100 will now be described in greater detail with reference to Figures 2 to 4. The endless track 100 extends around components of the track system 50, such that the endless track 100 surrounds the driving wheel assembly 60, the frame 70, the front and rear idler wheel assemblies 80, 82, and the support wheel assemblies 84a, 84b, 84c.306671448.1 14104 / 1242

[0073] The endless track 100 comprises a carcass 102 that, as will be described in further detail below, forms a construction of different components and / or materials. In some embodiments, the carcass 102 may include a body made of an elastomeric material, such as polymer, e.g. rubber in which reinforcement layers are embedded. The carcass 102 has a width 103.

[0074] The carcass 102 has an inner surface 104 that is configured to be engaged by the driving wheel assembly 60, the front and rear idler wheel assemblies 80, 82 and the support wheel assemblies 84a, 84b, 84c. The carcass 102 also has an outer surface 106 that is configured to engage a ground surface.

[0075] Referring to Figures 2 and 3, a plurality of lugs 108 project from the inner surface 104 and are configured to engage with the teeth 62 of the driving wheel assembly 60. Each lug 108 is longitudinally evenly spaced from an adjacent lug 108. The lugs 108 are disposed substantially centrally of left and right side edges 112, 114 of the endless track 100. Longitudinally between two adjacent lugs 108, there is defined an inter-lug section 110. It is contemplated that in some embodiments (not shown), the endless track 100 could have two or more laterally spaced sets of longitudinally spaced lugs 108. The lugs 108 may not be evenly spaced in some embodiments.

[0076] The inner surface 104, on the left and right sides of the lugs 108, comprises wheel engaging sections 120a, 120b which are configured to engage with, respectively, the left and right wheels of the front and rear idler wheel assemblies 80, 82, and the left and right wheels of the support wheel assemblies 84a, 84b, 84c. The wheel engaging sections 120a, 120b, extend longitudinally along the endless track 100. The width of each wheelengaging section 120a, 120b is typically the same as or larger than a width of the wheel with which it will engage.

[0077] Referring now to Figure 4, the outer surface 106 of the endless track 100 has protrusions 124a and recesses 124b that form a tread. It is contemplated that the tread could vary in shape and dimension from one embodiment to another. In some embodiments, the tread could depend on the type of vehicle to which the track system 50 is to be mounted and / or the type of ground surface on which the vehicle is destined to306671448.1 14104 / 1242travel. Thus, spacing between the protrusions 124a and recesses 124b can, to some extent, vary depending on the ground surface on which the endless track 100 is to be used and / or on the type of vehicle on which the endless track 100 is to be used, etc. In certain embodiments, at least some of the protrusions 124a are at least partially chamfered. In certain embodiments, a chamfer of at least one of the protrusions 124a extends over a lateral distance of between about 30 mm and about 40 mm, such as about 35 mm, about 36 mm, about 37 mm, about 38 mm, or about 39 mm.

[0078] Referring to Figure 5, embedded in the carcass 102, between the inner and outer surfaces 104, 106, there is provided a plurality of reinforcement layers, each comprising a plurality of reinforcing members. Each reinforcement layer can be considered as a sheet of the plurality of reinforcing members. The reinforcing members are elongate.

[0079] The reinforcement layers are configured to generally limit longitudinal elongation of the carcass 102, to distribute applied loads within the carcass 102 and / or to provide rigidity so that deformation behavior thereof in operation is known and controlled to a certain extent. Thus, the reinforcement layers reinforce the endless track 100, which can help to reduce the likelihood for the endless track 100 to be torn and / or damaged, and can thereby prolong a life of the endless track 100. In some cases, the reinforcement layers help to align the endless track 100. As will be described in further detail, the reinforcement layers and / or their reinforcing members may vary in terms of diameter, materials, orientation, densities, rigidities and / or weaving configuration, for example.

[0080] According to a first embodiment shown in in Figures 6A, 6B and 6C, there is provided a first reinforcement layer 116 comprising first reinforcing members 118, a second reinforcement layer 119 comprising second reinforcing members 122, and a third reinforcement layer 126 comprising third reinforcing members 127.

[0081] The first reinforcement layer 116 is disposed closest to the inner surface 104. The second reinforcement layer 119 is disposed adjacent to, and vertically outwardly from, the first reinforcement layer 116. The third reinforcement layer 126 is disposed adjacent to, and vertically outwardly from, the second reinforcement layer 119. The third reinforcement layer 126 is disposed closest to the outer surface 106. In other words, the306671448.1 14104 / 1242second and third reinforcement layers 119, 126 are disposed closer to the outer surface 106 than the first reinforcement layer 116. Thus, the first reinforcement layer 116 may be considered as an innermost reinforcement layer relative to the inner and outer surfaces 104, 106 , the third reinforcement layer 126 may be considered as an outermost reinforcement layer relative to the inner and outer surfaces 104, 106, and the second reinforcement layer 119 may be considered as an intermediary reinforcement layer relative to the inner and outer surfaces 104, 106 of the carcass 102 of the endless track 100.

[0082] The first reinforcing members 118 are elongate and extend longitudinally within the carcass 102. The first reinforcing members 118 are substantially parallel to one another, as well as to a centre-line 133, which centre-line extends longitudinally along the carcass 102 between the left and right side edges 112, 114 and is within the longitudinal center plane 132. The first reinforcing members 118 lie on a first plane 117. Each of the first reinforcing members 118 has a substantially circular transverse cross-section with a first diameter. In certain embodiments, the first diameter is about 3 to about 8 mm, about 4 to about 8 mm, about 5 to about 8 mm, about 6 to about 7 mm, about 6.1 mm, about 6.2 mm, about 6.3 mm, about 6.4 mm, about 6.5 mm, about 6.6 mm, about 6.7 mm, about 6.8 mm, about 6.9 mm, about 4.5 mm to about 5.5 mm, or is about 5.0 mm, about 5.1 mm, about 5.2 mm, about 5.3 mm, about 5.4 mm or about 5.5 mm.

[0083] The first reinforcing members 118 have a first longitudinal axis 134 which has a zero degree angle relative to the longitudinal center plane 132. In certain embodiments, the first reinforcing members 118 are cables made of a metallic material, such as stainless steel. The first reinforcement layer 116 may be considered as a core cord layer. In some embodiments, the first reinforcing members 118 are equally spaced from one another. In certain embodiments, a spacing between adjacent first reinforcing members 118 is about 5 mm to about 9 mm, about 6 mm to about 8 mm, about 7 mm to about 8 mm, about 7.1 mm, about 7.2 mm, about 7.3 mm, about 7.4 mm, about 7.5 mm, about 7.6, about 7.7 mm, about 7.8 mm, about 7.9 mm or about 8.0 mm. In other embodiments (not shown), the first reinforcing members 118 are unequally spaced from one another.306671448.1 14104 / 1242

[0084] The first reinforcement layer 116 is embedded in the carcass 102. A distance from the inner surface 104 to the first reinforcement layer 116 in a generally vertically direction is a first depth distance ddl. As depicted, the first depth distance ddl is measured from the inner surface 104 to the longitudinal axis 134 of the first reinforcing member 118. In other embodiments, the first depth distance ddl may be measured from the inner surface 104 to a top surface of the first reinforcing member 118. In some embodiments, the first depth distance ddl is about 11 mm to about 15 mm, about 12 mm to about 14 mm, about 13 mm to about 14 mm, or about 13.5 mm. In some embodiments, the minimal distance between the inner surface 104 and the top surface of the first reinforcing member 118 is about 0.5x the first diameter.

[0085] In a transverse direction, between the left and right sides 112, 114 of the carcass 102, the first reinforcement layer 116 has a span Isl. The span can also be referred to as a width of the first reinforcement layer 116 between the left and right side edges 112, 114. As depicted, the span Isl is measured between extremities of end first reinforcing members 118 (i.e. a left-most first reinforcing member 118 and a right-most reinforcing member 118). In certain embodiments, the span Isl is between about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, or about 95% of the width 103 of the carcass 102. The first reinforcement layer 116 is spaced equally from both the left and right sides 112, 114 of the carcass 102. In other embodiments, the first reinforcement layer 116 may be closer to the left side edge 112 than the right side edge 114, or may be closer to the right side edge 114 than the left side edge 112.

[0086] A distance between an end first reinforcing member 118 and an adjacent left side edge 112 or right side edge 114 is a first lateral distance Idl. More specifically, a distance between the left-most reinforcing member 118 and the left side edge 112 is a first lateral distance Idl, and a distance between the right-most reinforcing member 118 and the right side 114 is also the first lateral distance Idl. As depicted, the first lateral distance Idl is measured from an extremity of the end first reinforcing members 118 to the adjacent side edge 112, 114. In some embodiments, the first lateral distance Idl is about 13.0 mm to about 45.0 mm, about 15.0 mm to about 43.0 mm, about 17.0 mm to about 41.0 mm, about 19.0 mm to about 39.0 mm, about 21.0 mm to about 37.0 mm, about 21.0 mm to about306671448.1 14104 / 124235.0 mm, about 21.0 mm to about 33.0 mm, about 21.0 mm to about 31.0 mm, about 21.0 mm to about 29.0 mm, about 23.0 to about 27.0 mm, about 25.0 mm.

[0087] Turning now to the second reinforcement layer 119. The second reinforcing members 122 are elongate and extend longitudinally within the carcass 102. The second reinforcing members 122 are substantially parallel to one another and lie on a second plane 121, which is spaced from the first plane 117. Each one of the second reinforcing members 122 has a substantially circular transverse cross-section with a second diameter. In certain embodiments, the second diameter comprises 0.5 mm to about 1.5 mm, about 0.7 mm to about 1.4 mm, about 0.8 mm to about 1.3 mm, about 0.9 mm to about 1.2 mm, about 1.1 mm, about 1.2 mm or about 1.0 mm. The second reinforcing members 122 have a second longitudinal axis 136. In certain embodiments, the second diameter of the second reinforcing members 122 is smaller than the first diameter of the first reinforcing members 118. In some embodiments, the second diameter compared to the first diameter is about 0.3x smaller, about 0.4x smaller, about 0.5x smaller, about 0.6x smaller, about 0.7x smaller, about 0.8x smaller or about 0.9x smaller, about 1.5x smaller, about 2x times smaller, or about 2.5x smaller.

[0088] The second reinforcing members 122 may be made of any suitable material such as metal, polymer or composite material. The second reinforcing members 122 may be made of a synthetic material or a vegetal material. In some embodiments, the second reinforcing members 122 are equally spaced from one another. In other embodiments (not shown), the second reinforcing members 122 are unequally spaced from one another. In some embodiments, the spacing of the second reinforcing members 122 from each other is smaller than a spacing of the first reinforcing members 118 from each other. For example, the spacing of adjacent second reinforcing members 122 is about 2.5 mm to about 3.5 mm, about 2.6 mm to about 3.4 mm, about 2.7 mm to about 3.3 mm, about 2.8 mm to about 3.2 mm, about 2.9 mm to about 3.2 mm, about 3.0 mm to about 3.2 mm, about 3.15 mm or about 3.175 mm.

[0089] The second reinforcement layer 119 is embedded in the carcass 102. A distance between the first reinforcement layer 116 and the second reinforcement layer 119306671448.1 14104 / 1242is a second depth distance dd2, in a generally vertical direction from the inner surface 104 to outer surface 106. As depicted, the second depth distance dd2 is measured between respective longitudinal axes 134, 136 of the first and second reinforcing members 118, 122 in the generally vertical direction. In other embodiments, the second depth distance dd2 may be measured between the bottom surface of the first and the top surface of the second reinforcing members 118, 122 in the generally vertical direction. In some embodiments, the second depth distance dd2 is about 5.0 mm to about 9.0 mm, about 6.0 mm to about 8.0 mm, about 6.5 mm to about 7.5 mm, about 6.6 mm to about 7.4 mm, about 6.7 mm to about 7.3 mm, about 6.8 mm to about 7.2 mm, about 6.9 mm to about 7.1 mm, or about 7.0 mm. In some embodiments, the minimal distance between the bottom surface of the first reinforcing member 118 and the top surface of the second reinforcing member 122 is about 0.5x the second diameter.

[0090] In a transverse direction, between the left and right sides 112, 114 of the carcass 102, the second reinforcement layer 119 has a span ls2 as measured between extremities of a left-most first reinforcing member 122 and a right-most reinforcing member 122. The span ls2 is between about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, or about 95% of the width 103 of the carcass 102. The second reinforcement layer 119 is spaced equally from both the left and right sides 112, 114 of the carcass 102. In other embodiments, the second reinforcement layer 119 may be closer to the left side 112 than the right side 114, or may be closer to the right side 114 than the left side 112.

[0091] A distance between an end second reinforcing member 122 and an adjacent left side edge 112 or right side edge 114 is a second lateral distance ld2. More specifically, a distance between the left-most second reinforcing member 122 and the left side edge 112 is the second lateral distance Idl, and a distance between the right-most second reinforcing member 122 and the right side 114 is also the second lateral distance ld2. As depicted, the second lateral distance ld2 is measured from an extremity of the end second reinforcing members 122 to the adjacent side edge 112, 114. In some embodiments, the second lateral distance ld2 is about 13.0 mm to about 38.0 mm, about 15.0 mm to about 36.0 mm, about 17.0 to about 34.0 mm, about 19.0 mm to about 32.0 mm, about 21.0 mm to about 30.0306671448.1 14104 / 1242mm, about 23.0 mm to about 28.0 mm, about 24.0 mm to about 26.0 mm, or about 25.0 mm.

[0092] The second longitudinal axis 136 of the second reinforcing members 122 have a second angle relative to the longitudinal center plane 132. In certain embodiments, the second angle is different from the first angle and is offset from the centre-line 133 (i.e., the second angle is not zero degree to the centre-line 133). Thus, the second reinforcement layer 119 may be considered as a bias layer. The second angle may have an offset to the left or to the right of the centre-line 133. In certain embodiments, the second angle is about -49° to about -54°, about -50° to about -53°, about -51° to about -53°, or about -52° relative to the centre-line 133. In certain embodiments, the second angle is about 49° to about 54°, about 50° to about 53°, about 51° to about 53°, or about 52° relative to the centre-line 133. In other embodiments, the second angle is perpendicular to the centre-line 133.

[0093] In the embodiment depicted in Figures 6A, 6B and 6C, the second lateral distance ld2 id the same as the first lateral distance Idl. Similarly, the spans Isl and ls2 are the same.

[0094] Turning now to the third reinforcement layer 126, the third reinforcing members 127 are elongate and extend longitudinally within the carcass 102. The third reinforcing members 127 are substantially parallel to one another and lie on a third plane 125 which is spaced from the second plane 121. Each one of the third reinforcing members 127 has a substantially circular transverse cross-section with a third diameter. In certain embodiments, the third diameter comprises 0.5 mm to about 1.5 mm, about 0.7 mm to about 1.4 mm, about 0.8 mm to about 1.3 mm, about 0.9 mm to about 1.2 mm, about 1.1 mm, about 1.2 mm, or about 1.0 mm. The third reinforcing members 127 have a third longitudinal axis 138.

[0095] In certain embodiments, the third diameter of the third reinforcing members 127 is smaller than the first diameter of the first reinforcing members 118. In some embodiments, the third diameter compared to the first diameter is about 0.3x smaller, about 0.4x smaller, about 0.5x smaller, about 0.6x smaller, about 0.7x smaller, about 0.8x smaller306671448.1 14104 / 1242or about 0.9x smaller, about 1.5x smaller, about 2x times smaller, or about 2.5x smaller. The third diameter may be the same as or different from the second diameter.

[0096] The third reinforcing members 127 may be made of any suitable material such as metal, polymer or composite material. The third reinforcing members 127 may be made of a synthetic material or a vegetal material. In some embodiments, the third reinforcing members 127 are equally spaced from one another. In certain embodiments, a spacing of adjacent third reinforcing members 127 is about 2.5 mm to about 3.5 mm, about 2.6 mm to about 3.4 mm, about 2.7 mm to about 3.3 mm, about 2.8 mm to about 3.2 mm, about 2.9 mm to about 3.2 mm, about 3.0 mm to about 3.2 mm, about 3.15 mm or about 3.175 mm. In other embodiments (not shown), the second reinforcing members 127 are unequally spaced from one another. In some embodiments, the spacing of the third reinforcing members 127 from each other is smaller than a spacing of the first reinforcing members 118 from each other. In some embodiments, the spacing of the third reinforcing members 127 from each other is the same as the spacing of the second reinforcing members 122 from each other.

[0097] The third reinforcement layer 126 is embedded in the carcass 102. A distance between the second reinforcement layer 119 and the third reinforcement layer 126, in a generally vertical direction from the inner surface 104 to outer surface 106, is a third depth distance dd3. The third depth distance dd3 can be measured between respective longitudinal axes 136, 138 of the second and third reinforcing members 122, 127. In other embodiments, the third depth distance dd3 may be measured between the bottom surface of the second reinforcing member 122 and the top surface of the third reinforcing member 127. In some embodiments, the third depth distance dd3 is about 3.0 mm to about 7.0 mm, about 4.0 mm to about 6.0 mm, about 4.5 mm to about 5.5 mm, about 5.0 mm, about 5.5 mm or about 4.5 mm. In some embodiments, the third depth distance dd3 relative to the third diameter is about lx, about 1.5x, about 2. Ox or about 2.5x the third diameter. In some embodiments, the minimal distance between the bottom surface of the second reinforcing member 122 and the top surface of the third reinforcing member 127 is about 0.5x the third diameter.306671448.1 14104 / 1242

[0098] In a transverse direction, between the left and right sides 112, 114 of the carcass 102, the third reinforcing layer 126 has a span ls3 as measured between extremities of a left-most third reinforcing member 127 and a right-most reinforcing member 127. The span ls3 is between about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, or about 95% of the width 103 of the carcass 102. The third reinforcement layer 126 is spaced equally from both the left and right sides 112, 114 of the carcass 102. In other embodiments, the third reinforcement layer 126 may be closer to the left side 112 than the right side 114, or may be closer to the right side 114 than the left side 112.

[0099] A distance between an end third reinforcing member 127 and an adjacent left side edge 112 or right side edge 114 is a third lateral distance ld3. More specifically, a distance between the left-most third reinforcing member 127 and the left side edge 112 is the third lateral distance ld3, and a distance between the right-most third reinforcing member 127 and the right side 114 is also the third lateral distance ld3. As depicted, the third lateral distance ld3 is measured from an extremity of the end third reinforcing members 127 to the adjacent side edge 112, 114. In some embodiments, the third lateral distance ld3 is 3.0 mm to about 20.0 mm, about 5.0 mm to about 18.0 mm, about 7.0 mm to about 16.0 mm, about 9.0 mm to about 14.0 mm, about 11.0 mm to about 14.0 mm, about 12.0 mm, about 12.5 mm, about 13.0 mm,.

[0100] In the embodiments depicted in Figures 7A, 7B and 7C and in Figures 8 A, 8B and 8C, the third lateral distance ld3 is the same as the second lateral distance ld2 and the first lateral distance Idl. Similarly, the spans Isl, ls2 and ls3 are the same.

[0101] In the embodiment depicted in Figures 9 A, 9B and 9C, the third lateral distance ld3 is smaller than the second lateral distance ld2 and the first lateral distance Idl . Similarly, the span ls3 is larger than the spans ls2 and Isl.

[0102] The third longitudinal axis 138 of the third reinforcing members 127 have a third angle relative to the centre-line 133. In certain embodiments, the third angle is different from the first angle and is offset, to the left or the right, from the centre-line 133. Thus, the third reinforcement layer 126 may also be considered as a bias layer. The third angle may also be different to the second angle. The third angle may be generally opposed306671448.1 14104 / 1242to one of the first or second angles. In certain embodiments, the third angle is about -54°, about -55°, about -56°, about -57°, or about -58°,. In certain embodiments, the second angle is about 54°, about 55°, about 56°, about 57°, or about 58°, relative to the centre-line 133. In certain embodiments, the second angle is about 51° to the centre-line 133, and the third angle is about 56° to the centre-line 133. In other embodiments, the second angle is about -52° to the centre-line 133, and the third angle is about -56° to the centre-line 133.

[0103] As shown in Figures 7A, 7B and 7C, it is contemplated that in some embodiments, the carcass 102 may comprise more than the first, second and third reinforcement layers 116, 119, 126. For example, the carcass 102 may include a fourth reinforcement layer 128 comprising fourth reinforcing members 130, where the fourth reinforcement layer 128 is disposed adjacent to, and vertically outwardly from, the third reinforcement layer 126. In other words, the third reinforcement layer 126, in this case, becomes an intermediary reinforcement layer like the second reinforcement layer 119, and the fourth reinforcement layer 128 becomes the vertically outermost reinforcement layer. It is understood that the same rationale would apply for a construction of a carcass comprising more than four, five, six, seven, eight, nine or even ten and more reinforcement layers. The fourth reinforcing members 130 are elongate and extend longitudinally within the carcass 102. The fourth reinforcing members 130 are substantially parallel to one another and lie in a fourth plane 131 spaced from the third plane 125. Each of the fourth reinforcing members 130 has a substantially circular transverse cross-section and a fourth diameter. In certain embodiments, the fourth diameter comprises 0.5 mm to about 1.5 mm, about 0.7 mm to about 1.4 mm, about 0.8 mm to about 1.3 mm, about 0.9 mm to about 1.2 mm, about 1.1 mm, about 1.2 mm or about 1.0 mm.

[0104] In certain embodiments, the fourth diameter of the fourth reinforcing members 130 is the same as the second diameter of the second reinforcing members 122 and / or the third diameter of the third reinforcing members 127. In certain embodiments, the fourth diameter is different than the second diameter and / or the third diameter.

[0105] In some embodiments, the fourth diameter compared to the first diameter is about 0.3x smaller, about 0.4x smaller, about 0.5x smaller, about 0.6x smaller, about 0.7x306671448.1 14104 / 1242smaller, about 0.8x smaller or about 0.9x smaller, about 1.5x smaller, about 2x times smaller, or about 2.5x smaller.

[0106] The fourth reinforcing members 130 may be made of any suitable material such as metal, polymer or composite material. The third reinforcing members 130 may be made of a synthetic material or a vegetal material.

[0107] In some embodiments, the fourth reinforcing members 130 are equally spaced from one another. In other embodiments (not shown), the second reinforcing members 130 are unequally spaced from one another. In some embodiments, the spacing of the fourth reinforcing members 130 from each other is smaller than a spacing of the first reinforcing members 118 from each other. In certain embodiments, a spacing of the fourth reinforcing members 130 from each other is about 2.5 mm to about 3.5 mm, about 2.6 mm to about 3.4 mm, about 2.7 mm to about 3.3 mm, about 2.8 mm to about 3.2 mm, about 2.9 mm to about 3.2 mm, about 3.0 mm to about 3.2 mm, about 3.15 mm or about 3.175 mm.

[0108] The fourth reinforcement layer 128 is embedded in the carcass 102. A distance between the third reinforcement layer 126 and the fourth reinforcement layer 128, in a generally vertical direction from the inner surface 104 to the outer surface 106, is a fourth depth distance dd4. The fourth depth distance dd4 can be measured between respective longitudinal axes 138, 140 of the third and fourth reinforcing members 127, 130. In some embodiments, the fourth depth distance dd4 is about about 4.0 mm to about 6.0 mm, about 4.5 mm to about 5.5 mm, about 4.7 mm to about 5.3 mm, about 5.0 mm, or about 5.1 mm. . In some embodiments, the fourth depth distance dd4 relative to the fourth diameter is about lx, about 1.5x, about 2. Ox or about 2.5x the fourth diameter.

[0109] The fourth reinforcing members 130 have a fourth longitudinal axis 140 which have a fourth angle relative to the centre-line 133. In certain embodiments, the fourth angle is different from the first angle and is offset, to the left or the right, from the centreline 133. Thus, the fourth reinforcement layer 128 may also be considered as a bias layer. The fourth angle may also be different from the second angle or third angle. The fourth angle may be opposed to one of the first, second, and / or third angles. In some embodiments, the fourth angle is opposed to the first angle, i.e. at 900to the centre-line 133. In certain306671448.1 14104 / 1242embodiments, the fourth angle is about 85°, about 86°, about 87°, about 88°, about 90°, about 91°, or about 92° relative to the centre-line 133.

[0110] As best seen in Figure 7B, in some embodiments, the first, second, third and fourth longitudinal axes 134, 136, 138, 140 are different from one another. In certain other embodiments, such as that shown in Figures 8A, 8B and 8C, the third and fourth longitudinal axes 138, 140 are the same as one another, and substantially transverse to the centre line 132.

[0111] In a transverse direction, between the left and right sides 112, 114 of the carcass 102, the fourth reinforcing layer 128 has a span ls4 as measured between extremities of a left-most fourth reinforcing member 130 and a right-most reinforcing member 130. The span ls4 is between about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, or about 95% of the width 103 of the carcass 102. When the fourth reinforcement layer 128 is the outermost reinforcement layer, the span ls4 is greater than the span Isl of the first reinforcement layer 116. The fourth reinforcement layer 128 is spaced equally from both the left and right sides 112, 114 of the carcass 102. In other embodiments, the fourth reinforcement layer 128 may be closer to the left side 112 than to the right side 114, or may be closer to the right side 114 than to the left side 112.

[0112] A distance between an end fourth reinforcing member 130 and an adjacent left side edge 112 or right side edge 114 is a fourth lateral distance ld4. More specifically, a distance between the left-most fourth reinforcing member 130 and the left side edge 112 is a fourth lateral distance ld4, and a distance between the right-most fourth reinforcing member 130 and the right side 114 is also the fourth lateral distance ld4. As depicted, the fourth lateral distance ld4 is measured from an extremity of the end fourth reinforcing members 130 to the adjacent side edge 112, 114. In some embodiments, the fourth lateral distance ld4 is about 3.0 mm to about 20.0 mm, about 5.0 mm to about 18.0 mm, about 7.0 mm to about 16.0 mm, about 9.0 mm to about 14.0 mm, about 11.0 mm to about 14.0 mm, about 12.0 mm, about 12.5 mm, or about 13.0 mm.

[0113] When the fourth reinforcement layer 128 is the vertically outermost reinforcement layer, the fourth lateral distance ld4 is less than the first lateral distance Idl306671448.1 14104 / 1242of the first reinforcement layer 116. The left-most and the right-most reinforcing members 130 of the fourth reinforcement layer 128 are disposed closer to the left and right sides 112, 114, respectively, compared to the respective left-most and the right-most first, second, third reinforcing members 118, 122, 127 of the first, second, third reinforcement layers 116, 119, 126, respectively. In this case, when the fourth reinforcement layer 128 is the vertically outermost reinforcement layer, the extremities of the fourth reinforcement layer 128 may extend laterally outwardly from the first, second, and third reinforcement layers 116, 119, 127 of a distance between about 7.0 mm to about 16.0 mm, about 9.0 mm to about 14.0 mm, about 11.0 mm to about 14.0 mm, about 12.0 mm, about 12.5 mm, about 13.0 mm, 13.0 mm.

[0114] In the embodiment of Figures 9A, 9B and 9C, the fourth lateral distance ld4 may be the same as the third lateral distance ld3.

[0115] Optionally, the carcass 102 may further include a fifth reinforcement layer (not shown) having fifth reinforcing members (not shown) which are disposed between the inner surface 104 of the carcass 102 and the first reinforcement layer 116. Thus, it is contemplated that, in this embodiment, the fifth reinforcement layer is considered as the innermost reinforcement layer.

[0116] The fifth reinforcing members, when present, are elongate and extend longitudinally within the carcass 102. Each of the fifth reinforcing members has a substantially transverse circular cross-section and a fifth diameter. The fifth reinforcing members are substantially parallel to one another and lie in a fifth plane (not shown) distant from the first plane 117. The fifth reinforcing members of the fifth reinforcement layer are disposed at a fifth distance from the first reinforcement layer 116, in a direction from the outer surface 106 to inner surface 104.

[0117] In certain embodiments, the fifth diameter of the fifth reinforcing members is same as one or more of the second diameter, the third diameter and the fourth diameter. In certain embodiments, the fifth diameter of the fifth reinforcing members is different from one or more of the second diameter, the third diameter and the fourth diameter.306671448.1 14104 / 1242

[0118] The fifth reinforcing members have a longitudinal axis which has a fifth angle relative to the centre-line 133. In certain embodiments, the fifth angle is different to the first angle and is offset, to the left or the right, from the centre-line 133. Thus, the fifth reinforcement layer may also be considered as a bias layer. The fifth angle may also be different, or opposed to, the second, third, and / or fourth angles.

[0119] In a transverse direction, between the left and right sides 112, 114 of the carcass 102, the fifth reinforcement layer has a span ls5, as measured between extremities of a left-most fifth reinforcing member and a right-most fifth reinforcing member. The span ls5 is between about 75% to about 125% of a width of the first reinforcement layer 116. A distance between an end fifth reinforcing member and an adjacent left side edge 112 or right side edge 114 is a fifth lateral distance ld5. The fifth lateral distance ld5 may be smaller than the first lateral distance Idl.

[0120] In yet another embodiment of the technology, the carcass 102 comprises the first, second, third and fourth reinforcement layers 116, 119, 126, 128. However, this embodiment differs from that of Figures 7A-C, 8A-C and 9A-C in that the fourth reinforcement layer 128 comprising fourth reinforcing members 130 has a shorter span ls4 than the span of the first, second and third reinforcement layers Isl, ls2, ls3. The fourth lateral distance ld4 is more than the first lateral distance Idl, the second lateral distance ld2, and the third lateral distance ld3. A difference between the fourth lateral distance ld4 and one or more of the first lateral distance Idl, the second lateral distance ld2, and the third lateral distance ld3 may be about 5.5 mm, about 6.0 mm, about 6.35 mm or about 6.5 mm.

[0121] In one example, the reinforcing layers are configured as follows:306671448.1 14104 / 1242

[0122] For each of the first, second, third and fourth reinforcement layers 116, 119, 126, 128, the respective span is less than the width of the carcass 102. This defines left and right lateral end portions 142 of the carcass 102 that are therefore not reinforced by reinforcement members. A width of the non-reinforced lateral end portion 142, between the inner and outer surfaces 104, 106, is varied, as will be explained further below.

[0123] In some embodiments, in terms of proximity to the inner and outer surfaces 104, 106, the first reinforcement layer 116 is the innermost reinforcement layer and the third reinforcement layer 126 is the outermost reinforcement layer, with the second reinforcement layer 119 laying therebetween as an intermediary reinforcement layer.

[0124] In some embodiments, in terms of proximity to the inner and outer surfaces 104, 106, the first reinforcement layer 116 is the innermost reinforcement layer and the fourth reinforcement layer 128 is the outermost reinforcement layer, with the second and third reinforcement layers 119, 126 laying therebetween as intermediary reinforcement layers.306671448.1 14104 / 1242

[0125] In some embodiments, in terms of proximity to the inner and outer surfaces 104, 106, the fifth reinforcement layer is the innermost reinforcement layer and the third or fourth reinforcement layer 126, 128 is the outermost reinforcement layer, with the first, second and third reinforcement layers 116, 119, 126 laying therebetween as intermediary reinforcement layers.

[0126] In some embodiments, any one or more of Idl, ld2, ld3 and ld4 are less than a lateral distance of a chamfered portion of at least some of the protrusions 124a.

[0127] In some embodiments, a lateral spacing of the wheel from the left or right side edge 112, 114, when the wheel is engaged with the inner surface 104, may be less than a distance of the most outwardly positioned reinforcing member of the outermost reinforcement layer (e.g. Id4 when there are four reinforcement layers or ld3 when there are three reinforcement layers). In some embodiments, the lateral spacing of the wheel from the left or right side edge 112, 114, when the wheel is engaged with the inner surface 104, may be less than a lateral distance of the most outwardly positioned reinforcing member of the innermost reinforcement layer (e.g. Idl) or an intermediate reinforcement layer (e.g. Id2 or ld3 when there are four reinforcement layers).

[0128] According to certain aspects of the present technology, a lateral distance from an adjacent side edge of an end reinforcing member of an outermost reinforcement layer is less than a lateral distance from an adjacent side edge of an end reinforcing member of an innermost reinforcement layer. For example, ld3 is less than Idl when there are three reinforcement layers, and ld4 is less than Idl when there are four reinforcement layers. Equally, the span ls3 is more than the span Isl when there are three reinforcement layers, and the span ls4 is more than the span Isl when there are four reinforcement layers. By span is meant a distance between the most outwardly positioned reinforcing members within a reinforcement layer, i.e., a distance between the end reinforcing members.

[0129] In other aspects, a lateral distance from an adjacent side edge of an end reinforcing member of an outermost reinforcement layer is more than a lateral distance from an adjacent side edge of an end reinforcing member of an innermost reinforcement306671448.1 14104 / 1242layer or an intermediate reinforcement layer. For example, ld4 is more than Idl, ld2 and ld3. Equally, the span ls4 is less than the span Isl, ls2 and ls3.

[0130] Furthermore, according to certain aspects of the present technology, a lateral distance from an adjacent side edge of an end reinforcing member of an intermediate reinforcement layer is at least as much as a lateral distance from an adjacent side edge of an end reinforcing member of the innermost reinforcement layer. For example, ld2 is the same as Idl (and more than ld3) when there are three or four reinforcement layers. When there are two or more intermediate reinforcement layers (such as the second reinforcement layer 119 and the third reinforcement layer 126 of Figures 8A-8C and 9A-9C, the intermediate layer closer to the inner surface 104 has the same lateral distance as the innermost reinforcement layer. The intermediate layer closer to the outer surface 106 may have a lateral distance the same as the innermost reinforcement layer or the outermost reinforcement layer.

[0131] Stated differently, the width (or span) of the outermost reinforcing layer is larger than the width of the innermost and intermediary reinforcement layers in some aspects. In other aspects, the span of the outermost reinforcing layer is less than the span of the innermost and intermediary reinforcement layers. In some embodiments, the intermediary reinforcement layer is as wide or not wider than the innermost reinforcement layer. In some embodiments, the first reinforcement layer is a core cord layer and the intermediary and outermost reinforcement layers are bias layers. In some embodiments, the intermediary reinforcement layer is a plurality of intermediary reinforcement layers outwardly distant from each other and from the innermost reinforcement layer. In some embodiments, the plurality of intermediary reinforcement layers includes an innermost intermediary reinforcement layer adjacent but outwardly distant from the first reinforcement layer and an outermost intermediary reinforcement layer adjacent but inwardly distant from the outermost reinforcement layer. In some aspects, the outermost intermediary reinforcement layer is as wide or not wider than the outermost reinforcement layer. In other aspects, the outermost intermediary reinforcement layer is wider than a width of the outermost reinforcement layer.306671448.1 14104 / 1242

[0132] In some aspects, a part of the lateral end portion 142 of the carcass 102 adjacent to the most laterally outwardly extending reinforcement layer is narrower than the part of the lateral end portion 142 of the carcass 102 adjacent to the first reinforcement layer 116. In some embodiments, the part of the lateral end portions 142 of the carcass 102 adjacent to the reinforcement layer with the smallest lateral distance from respective left and right side edges 112, 114 is narrower than a part of the lateral end portions 142 of the carcass 102 adjacent to the first reinforcement layer 116. In some embodiments, the part of the lateral end portions 142 of the carcass 102 adjacent to the intermediary reinforcement layer is generally as wide as the part of the lateral end portions of the carcass 102 adjacent to the first reinforcement layer 116.

[0133] Therefore, a lateral distance between the ends of the outermost reinforcing members differ relative to the lateral ends of the innermost reinforcing layer. In some embodiments, lateral distance of the intermediary reinforcement layer is generally immaterial relative to the lateral distance of the innermost reinforcement layer. In some embodiments, the outermost lateral distance is outwardly material relative to the lateral ends of the first reinforcing layer 116.

[0134] During operation, when the axle to which the driving wheel assembly 60 is operatively connected rotates, the driving wheel assembly 60 also rotates such that the driving wheel assembly 60 engages, and thus drives, the endless track 100. More precisely, the recesses 62 of the driving wheel assembly 60 engage with the lugs 108 of the endless track 100. The transmission of force and motion result in the endless track 100 experiencing relatively high stresses at the lugs 108 and within the carcass 102. In some instances, the stresses can be high at the root of the lugs. In addition, when the support wheel assemblies 84a, 84b, 84c rolls on the endless track, a compressive load (e.g. weight of the vehicle) is applied to the carcass 102, from the inner surface 104 to the outer surface 106 in contact with the ground surface.

[0135] It has been found that having an outermost reinforcement layer that is wider than the core cord layer while having intermediary reinforcement layer(s) as wide or not wider than the core cord layer is beneficial in distributing stresses, preventing heat306671448.1 14104 / 1242generation, and / or crack generation. The durability of the endless track may therefore be improved. Addition of a lateral chamfer 150 on each lateral end of the outer surface 106 adjacent to the carcass 102 is also found to improve durability of the endless track, in certain embodiments.

[0136] In some aspects, it has also been found that having an outermost reinforcement layer that is narrower (smaller span) than the core cord layer while having intermediary reinforcement layer(s) as wide or not wider than the core cord layer is beneficial in distributing stresses, preventing heat generation, and / or crack generation, for improved durability.

[0137] Any material(s) or method(s) of manufacture which produce such components may be used in the present technology.

[0138] Modifications and improvements to the above-described embodiments of the present technology may become apparent to those skilled in the art. The foregoing description is intended to be exemplary rather than limiting. The scope of the present technology is therefore intended to be limited solely by the scope of the appended claims.306671448.1 14104 / 1242

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. An endless track for a track system, the endless track comprising:a carcass having an inner surface engageable by at least one wheel assembly, and an outer surface engageable to a ground surface, the carcass being made of an elastomeric material;a plurality of reinforcement layers embedded within the carcass, each reinforcement layer having a plurality of reinforcing members, the plurality of reinforcement layers comprising:an innermost reinforcement layer which is disposed closest to the inner surface compared to the other reinforcement layers, the innermost reinforcement layer comprising a plurality of innermost reinforcing members and wherein an end innermost reinforcing member is spaced from one of a left side edge or a right side edge of the carcass by an innermost layer lateral distance;an outermost reinforcement layer which is disposed closest to the outer surface compared to the other reinforcement layers, the outermost reinforcement layer comprising a plurality of outermost reinforcing members and wherein an end outermost reinforcing member is spaced from the one of the left side edge or the right side edge of the carcass by an outermost layer lateral distance;at least one intermediary reinforcement layer disposed between the innermost and the outermost reinforcement layers, the at least one intermediary reinforcement layer comprising a plurality of intermediary reinforcing members and wherein an end intermediary reinforcing member is spaced from the one of the left side edge or the right side edge of the carcass by an intermediary layer lateral distance;wherein:the outermost layer lateral distance is less than, or more than, the innermost layer lateral distance and the intermediary layer lateral distance; andthe intermediary layer lateral distance is at most substantially equal to the innermost layer lateral distance.306671448.1 14104 / 12422. The endless track of claim 1, wherein the innermost layer lateral distance is the same as the intermediary layer lateral distance.

3. The endless track of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein a lateral span of the outermost reinforcement layer is larger than a lateral span of the innermost reinforcement layer and is larger than a lateral span of the at least one intermediary reinforcement layer.

4. The endless track of any one of claims 1-3, wherein a cross-sectional diameter of the outermost reinforcing members of the outermost reinforcement layer and a cross-sectional diameter of the intermediary reinforcing members of the intermediary reinforcement layer are smaller than a cross-sectional diameter of the innermost reinforcing members of the innermost reinforcement layer.

5. The endless track of any one of claims 1-4, wherein a spacing between the innermost reinforcing members is more than a spacing between the intermediary reinforcing members.

6. The endless track of any one of claims 1-5, wherein a distance between a bottom surface of given innermost reinforcing member and a top surface of a given adjacent intermediary reinforcing member is at least about 0.5x of a diameter of the given intermediary reinforcing member.

7. The endless track of any one of claims 1-6, wherein the carcass has a centre-line extending longitudinally along the carcass between the left and right side edges, and: an innermost longitudinal axis of the innermost reinforcing members has a first angle relative to the centre-line,an intermediary longitudinal axis of the intermediary reinforcing members has a second angle relative to the centre-line,an outermost longitudinal axis of the outermost reinforcing members has a third angle relative to the centre-line, whereinthe first angle is different to the second angle.306671448.1 14104 / 12428. The endless track of claim 7, wherein the second angle is different to the third angle.

9. The endless track of claim 7 or claim 8, wherein the first angle is zero degrees.

10. The endless track of any one of claims 7-9, wherein the third angle is about 90 degrees to the center line.

11. The endless track of any one of claims 1-10, wherein the intermediary reinforcement layer is a plurality of intermediary reinforcement layers comprising the intermediary reinforcement layer and at least one additional intermediary reinforcement layer, the at least one additional intermediary reinforcement layer having an end additional intermediary reinforcing member spaced from the one of the left side edge or the right side edge of the carcass by an additional intermediary layer lateral distance, the at least one additional intermediary reinforcement layer being disposed adjacent to the intermediary reinforcement layer and between the innermost and outermost reinforcement layers.

12. The endless track of claim 11, wherein an outermost intermediary layer lateral distance is the same as the outermost layer lateral distance.

13. The endless track of claim 12, wherein the additional intermediary layer lateral distance is the same as the intermediary layer lateral distance.

14. The endless track of any one of claims 9-13, wherein a distance between facing surfaces of intermediary reinforcing members of adjacent intermediary reinforcement layers is at least about 0.5x of a diameter of the intermediary reinforcing member.

15. The endless track of any one of claims 3-14, further comprising a plurality of lugs extending from the inner surface and being longitudinally spaced, each lug having a first wheel engaging portion on a first side and a second wheel engaging portion on a second306671448.1 14104 / 1242side, the first and second wheel engaging portions having a respective width, the width being smaller than the span of the innermost, intermediary and outermost layers.

16. The endless track of any of claims 1-15, wherein at least a portion of the outer surface is chamfered laterally.

17. An endless track for a track system, the endless track comprising:a carcass having an inner surface engageable by at least one wheel assembly, and an outer surface engageable to a ground surface, the carcass being made of an elastomeric material;a plurality of reinforcement layers embedded within the carcass, each reinforcement layer having a plurality of reinforcing members, the plurality of reinforcement layers comprising:an innermost reinforcement layer which is disposed closest to the inner surface compared to the other reinforcement layers, the innermost reinforcement layer comprising a plurality of innermost reinforcing members and wherein an end innermost reinforcing member is spaced from one of a left side edge or a right side edge of the carcass by an innermost layer lateral distance;an outermost reinforcement layer which is disposed closest to the outer surface compared to the other reinforcement layers, the outermost reinforcement layer comprising a plurality of outermost reinforcing members and wherein an end outermost reinforcing member is spaced from the one of the left side edge or the right side edge of the carcass by an outermost layer lateral distance;an outermost intermediary reinforcement layer disposed between the innermost and the outermost reinforcement layers and adjacent the outermost reinforcement layer, the outermost intermediary reinforcement layer comprising a plurality of outermost intermediary reinforcing members and wherein an end outermost intermediary reinforcing member is spaced from the one of the left side edge or the right side edge of the carcass by an outermost intermediary layer lateral distance;an innermost intermediary reinforcement layer disposed between the innermost and the outermost reinforcement layers and adjacent the innermost reinforcement layer and the306671448.1 14104 / 1242outermost intermediary reinforcement layer, the innermost intermediary reinforcement layer comprising a plurality of innermost intermediary reinforcing members and wherein an end innermost intermediary reinforcing member is spaced from the one of the left side edge or the right side edge of the carcass by an innermost intermediary layer lateral distance; wherein:the outermost layer lateral distance is less than, or more than, the innermost layer lateral distance, the innermost intermediary layer lateral distance, and the outermost intermediary layer lateral distance; andthe innermost intermediary layer lateral distance and the outermost intermediary layer lateral distance is at most equal to the innermost layer lateral distance.

18. The endless track of claim 17, wherein a cross-sectional diameter of the outermost reinforcing members, a cross-sectional diameter of the outermost intermediary reinforcing members, and a cross-sectional diameter of the innermost reinforcing members are smaller than a cross-sectional diameter of the innermost reinforcing members19. The endless track of claim 17 or claim 18, wherein a lateral spacing between adjacent ones of the innermost reinforcing members is more than a lateral spacing between adjacent ones of the innermost intermediary reinforcing members, and more than a lateral spacing between adjacent ones of the outermost intermediary reinforcing members.

20. The endless track of any of claims 17-19, wherein a vertical spacing between the innermost reinforcement layer and the innermost intermediary reinforcement layer is greater than a vertical spacing between the innermost intermediary reinforcement layer and the outermost intermediary reinforcement layer, and between the outermost intermediary reinforcement layer and the outermost reinforcement layer.

21. The endless track of any one of claims 17-20, wherein a distance between the inner surface and a top surface of the innermost reinforcing member is at least about 0.5x of a diameter of the given innermost reinforcing member.306671448.1 14104 / 124222. The endless track of any one of claims 17-21, wherein a distance between a bottom surface of given innermost reinforcing member and a top surface of a given innermost intermediary reinforcing member is at least about 0.5x of a diameter of the given innermost intermediary reinforcing member.

23. The endless track of any one of claims 17-22, wherein a distance between a bottom surface of the innermost intermediary reinforcing member and a top surface of the outermost intermediary reinforcing member is at least about 0.5x of a diameter of the outermost intermediary reinforcing member.

24. The endless track of any one of claims 17-23, wherein the carcass has a centre-line extending longitudinally along the carcass between the left and right side edges, and: an innermost longitudinal axis of the innermost reinforcing members has a first angle relative to the centre-line,an innermost intermediary longitudinal axis of the innermost intermediary reinforcing members has a second angle relative to the centre-line,an outermost intermediary longitudinal axis of the outermost intermediary reinforcing members has a third angle relative to the centre-line,an outermost longitudinal axis of the outermost reinforcing members has a fourth angle relative to the centre-line,wherein the first angle, the second angle, the third angle and the fourth angle are different to one another.

25. The endless track of claim 24, wherein the first angle is zero degrees and the fourth angle is about 90 degrees.

26. The endless track of claim 24 or claim 25, wherein one or both of the second angle and the third angle is between about 40 degrees and about 70 degrees to the center line.

27. A track system comprising:a frame;306671448.1 14104 / 1242wheel assemblies rotationally connected to the frame; andthe endless track of any one of claims 1 to 16, or 17 to 26, the endless track surrounding the frame and the wheel assemblies.

28. A vehicle having a chassis, an engine and the track system of claim 27.306671448.1 14104 / 1242

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