Wheel for a track system, wheel assembly and track system including the same

Abstract

Wheel for a track system of a vehicle comprising a hub; a sleeve disposed radially outwardly from and connected to the hub, sleeve outer and inner faces extending between a sleeve first and second lateral faces; and a covering disposed radially outwardly from and connected to the sleeve. Covering outer and inner faces extend between covering first and second lateral faces. The covering extends partially along the sleeve outer face and stops short of the sleeve second lateral face to expose a portion of the sleeve outer face. A wear ring extends circumferentially along the sleeve second lateral face and the hub second lateral face, wherein the wear ring is removably connected to one or both of the hub and the sleeve.

Description

WHEEL FOR A TRACK SYSTEM, WHEEL ASSEMBLY AND TRACK SYSTEM INCLUDING THE SAME CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims priority to United States Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 749,110, filed January 24th, 2025 and United States Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 806,276, filed May 15th, 2025, both of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present technology relates to wheels for endless track systems, and wheel assemblies and track systems comprising such wheels.BACKGROUND

[0003] 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.). Such vehicles use track systems that comprise an endless track in contact with wheel assemblies, which offer significant advantages in terms of mobility and traction over challenging terrains compared to traditional wheeled vehicles.

[0004] Conventional track systems do, however, present some inconveniences. For example, the lifespan of the track systems can be limited by wear and tear between the endless track and the wheels of the wheel assemblies.

[0005] Non-optimized pressure distribution between the wheels and the endless track can lead to high stresses and high heat generation, leading to accelerated degradation of the wheel and / or the endless track, necessitating frequent maintenance and replacement, which increases operational costs and downtime.306696188.2 14104 / 1229

[0006] Therefore, there is a desire for wheels 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] According to one aspect of the present technology, there is provided a wheel for a track system of a vehicle, the track system including an endless track with lugs, the wheel comprising: a hub having a hub outer face and a hub inner face, the hub outer and inner faces extending between a hub first lateral face and a hub second lateral face; a sleeve disposed radially outwardly from, and connected to, the hub, the sleeve having a sleeve outer face and a sleeve inner face, the sleeve outer and inner faces extending between a sleeve first lateral face and a sleeve second lateral face; a covering disposed radially outwardly from, and connected to, the sleeve, the covering having a covering outer face for engaging with an inner surface of the endless track and a covering inner face, the covering outer and inner faces extending between a covering first lateral face and a covering second lateral face; the covering extending partially along the sleeve outer face and stopping short of the sleeve second lateral face to expose a portion of the sleeve outer face; and a wear ring extending circumferentially along the sleeve second lateral face and the hub second lateral face, wherein the wear ring is removably connected to one or both of the hub and the sleeve.

[0009] In certain embodiments, the wear ring has a covering end, wherein the covering end is substantially flush with the exposed portion of the sleeve outer face.

[0010] In certain embodiments, the wear ring has a hub end, and a thickness of the wear ring is less at the covering end than at the hub end.

[0011] In certain embodiments, the wear ring has a radial length, and the thickness of the wear ring increases substantially linearly from the covering end towards the hub end along only a portion of the radial length.306696188.2 14104 / 1229

[0012] In certain embodiments, the wear ring is removably connected to the hub by a connector extending through the wear ring into the hub.

[0013] In certain embodiments, the hub further comprises a hub lipped portion and the wear ring further comprises a wear ring lipped portion, wherein the wear ring is removably connected to the hub by inter-engagement of the hub lipped portion and the wear ring lipped portion.

[0014] In certain embodiments, the hub lipped portion and the wear ring lipped portion extend radially.

[0015] In certain embodiments, the covering outer face has a lateral profile comprising: a substantially flat portion extending from the covering first lateral face towards the covering second lateral face, and a downwardly sloped portion extending from the flat portion to the covering second lateral face.

[0016] In certain embodiments, the substantially flat portion of the covering outer face is substantially parallel to the sleeve outer face.

[0017] In certain embodiments, the substantially flat portion extends from the covering first lateral face to beyond a midline of the covering.

[0018] In certain embodiments, the covering second lateral face is on an inward side of the wheel, which will face the lugs in use.

[0019] In certain embodiments, a sleeve lateral width is greater than a covering lateral width, and both the sleeve lateral width and the covering lateral width are greater than a hub lateral width.

[0020] In certain embodiments, the downwardly sloped portion comprises: a first sloped portion adjacent the flat portion and having a first angle relative to the flat portion, and a second sloped portion adjacent the covering second lateral face and having a second angle relative to the flat portion, wherein the first and second angles are different.

[0021] In certain embodiments, the first angle is less than the second angle.306696188.2 14104 / 1229

[0022] In certain embodiments, the sleeve second lateral face is angled towards the covering second lateral face.

[0023] In certain embodiments, the covering first lateral face is angled towards the covering second lateral face.

[0024] In certain embodiments, the hub comprises: a hub outer face and a hub inner face, the hub outer and inner faces extending between a hub first lateral face and a hub second lateral face, and a hub flange extending radially inward from the hub inner face.

[0025] In certain embodiments, the hub flange is disposed closer to the hub first lateral face than to the hub second lateral face.

[0026] In certain embodiments, the hub flange is disposed closer to the hub second lateral face than to the hub first lateral face.

[0027] In certain embodiments, the hub outer face has a lateral profile including a peak portion.

[0028] In certain embodiments, the sleeve and the hub are connected by a mechanical interlock.

[0029] In certain embodiments, the mechanical interlock comprises a plurality of protrusions defined in the sleeve inner face which are received within a plurality of recesses defined in the hub outer face.

[0030] In certain embodiments, the protrusions comprise pairs of protrusions, each protrusion of the pair being spaced laterally, the pairs of protrusions being disposed circumferentially on the sleeve inner face.

[0031] In certain embodiments, the hub is made of a metallic material, the sleeve is made of a polymeric material and the covering is made of an elastomeric material.

[0032] In certain embodiments, the polymeric material is ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene and the elastomeric material is rubber.306696188.2 14104 / 1229

[0033] In certain embodiments, the wheel forms part of a support wheel assembly.

[0034] From a further aspect, there is provided a wheel assembly for a track system of a vehicle, the wheel assembly comprising: a left wheel and a right wheel disposed about a wheel axle, the left and right wheels as defined herein.

[0035] In certain embodiments, the wheel assembly is not a driving wheel assembly.

[0036] From a yet further aspect, there is provided a track system comprising: a frame; at least one wheel assembly as defined herein rotationally connected to the frame; and an endless track surrounding the frame and the at least one wheel assembly.

[0037] From another aspect, there is provided a vehicle having a chassis, an engine and the track system defined herein.

[0038] In certain embodiments, the wheel assembly comprises a support wheel assembly. In certain embodiments, the wheel assembly comprises a front idler wheel assembly and / or a rear idler wheel assembly. In some embodiments, the wheel assembly does not comprise a driving wheel assembly.

[0039] According to another aspect of the present technology, there is provided a wheel for a track system of a vehicle, the track system including an endless track with lugs, the wheel comprising: a hub; a sleeve disposed radially outwardly from, and connected to, the hub, the sleeve having a sleeve outer face and a sleeve inner face, the sleeve outer and inner faces extending between a sleeve first lateral face and a sleeve second lateral face; and a covering disposed radially outwardly from, and connected to, the sleeve, the covering having a covering outer face for engaging with an inner surface of the endless track and a covering inner face, the covering outer and inner faces extending between a covering first lateral face and a covering second lateral face; the covering extending partially along the sleeve outer face and stopping short of the sleeve second lateral face to expose a portion of the sleeve outer face, wherein the covering outer face has a lateral profile comprising: a substantially flat portion extending from the covering first lateral face towards the covering306696188.2 14104 / 1229second lateral face, and a downwardly sloped portion extending from the flat portion to the covering second lateral face.

[0040] In certain embodiments, the substantially flat portion of the covering outer face is substantially parallel to the sleeve outer face.

[0041] In certain embodiments, the substantially flat portion extends from the covering first lateral face to beyond a midline of the covering.

[0042] In certain embodiments, the covering second lateral face is on an inward side of the wheel which will face the lugs in use.

[0043] In certain embodiments, a sleeve lateral width is greater than a covering lateral width, and both the sleeve lateral width and the covering lateral width are greater than a hub lateral width.

[0044] In certain embodiments, the downwardly sloped portion comprises: a first sloped portion adjacent the flat portion and having a first angle relative to the flat portion, and a second sloped portion adjacent the covering second lateral face and having a second angle relative to the flat portion, wherein the first and second angles are different.

[0045] In certain embodiments, the first angle is less than the second angle.

[0046] In certain embodiments, the sleeve second lateral face is angled towards the covering second lateral face.

[0047] In certain embodiments, the covering first lateral face is angled towards the covering second lateral face.

[0048] In certain embodiments, the hub comprises: a hub outer face and a hub inner face, the hub outer and inner faces extending between a hub first lateral face and a hub second lateral face, and a hub flange extending radially inward from the hub inner face.

[0049] In certain embodiments, the hub flange is disposed closer to the hub first lateral face than to the hub second lateral face.306696188.2 14104 / 1229

[0050] In certain embodiments, the hub flange is disposed closer to the hub second lateral face than to the hub first lateral face.

[0051] In certain embodiments, the hub outer face has a lateral profile including a peak portion.

[0052] In certain embodiments, the sleeve and the hub are connected by a mechanical interlock.

[0053] In certain embodiments, the mechanical interlock comprises a plurality of protrusions defined in the sleeve inner face which are received within a plurality of recesses defined in the hub outer face.

[0054] In certain embodiments, the protrusions comprise pairs of protrusions, each protrusion of the pair being spaced laterally, the pairs of protrusions being disposed circumferentially on the sleeve inner face.

[0055] In certain embodiments, the hub is made of a metallic material, the sleeve is made of a polymeric material and the covering is made of an elastomeric material.

[0056] In certain embodiments, the polymeric material is ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene and the elastomeric material is rubber.

[0057] In certain embodiments, the wheel forms part of a support wheel assembly.

[0058] From a further aspect, there is provided a wheel assembly for a track system of a vehicle, the wheel assembly comprising: a left wheel and a right wheel disposed about a wheel axle, the left and right wheels as defined herein.

[0059] In certain embodiments, the wheel assembly is not a driving wheel assembly.

[0060] From a yet further aspect, there is provided a track system comprising: a frame; at least one wheel assembly as defined herein rotationally connected to the frame; and an endless track surrounding the frame and the at least one wheel assembly.306696188.2 14104 / 1229

[0061] From another aspect, there is provided a vehicle having a chassis, an engine and the track system defined herein.

[0062] In certain embodiments, the wheel assembly comprises a support wheel assembly. In certain embodiments, the wheel assembly comprises a front idler wheel assembly and / or a rear idler wheel assembly. In some embodiments, the wheel assembly does not comprise a driving wheel assembly.

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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.

[0066] 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.

[0067] As used herein, “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 center306696188.2 14104 / 1229plane, 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.

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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

[0070] 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:

[0071] Fig. 1 is a right side elevation view of a harvester having a track system with an endless track, the track system including wheel assemblies according to embodiments of the present technology;

[0072] Fig. 2 is a vertical cross-section of one of the wheel assemblies of Fig. 1 through the line A-A of Fig. 1, the wheel assembly including two wheels, according to one embodiment of the present technology;

[0073] Fig. 3 is a perspective view of one of the wheels of Fig. 2, according to embodiments of the present technology;

[0074] Fig. 4 is a cross-section through the line B-B of the wheel of Fig. 3, according to one embodiment of the present technology;306696188.2 14104 / 1229

[0075] Fig. 5 is an exploded view of the wheel of Fig. 4, the wheel including a wear ring, a hub, a sleeve and a covering;

[0076] Fig. 6 is a plan view of an outer face of the wear ring of Fig. 4;

[0077] Fig. 7 is a plan view of an inner face of the wear ring of Fig. 4;

[0078] Fig. 8 is a side view of the wear ring of Fig. 4;

[0079] Fig. 9 is a cross-section through the line C-C of the wear ring of Fig. 6;

[0080] Fig. 10 is the cross-section of the wear ring of Fig. 9 when viewed in perspective;

[0081] Fig. 11 is a cross-section through the line B-B of the wheel of Fig. 3, according to another embodiment of the present technology;

[0082] Fig. 12 is the cross-section of the wheel of Fig. 11 when viewed in perspective;

[0083] Fig. 13 is a perspective view from an outer face of the wear ring of Fig. 11;

[0084] Fig. 14 is a perspective view from an inner face of the wear ring of Fig. 11;

[0085] Fig. 15 is a side view of the wear ring of Fig. 11;

[0086] Fig. 16 is a cross-section through the line D-D of the wear ring of Fig. 14;

[0087] Fig. 17 is a cross-section through the line E-E of the wheel of Fig. 3 with the wear ring removed, according to one embodiment of the present technology;

[0088] Fig. 18 is the cross-section of Fig. 17 with a hub removed;

[0089] Fig. 19 is a plan view of the wheel of Fig. 3; and

[0090] Figs. 20-28 are cross-sections through the line F-F of the wheel of Fig. 19, and depict different embodiments of the wheel.306696188.2 14104 / 1229DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0091] 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.

[0092] The present technology relates to various embodiments of an endless track, and will be described with reference to a track system.

[0093] Referring to FIG. 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 all-terrain 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.

[0094] Still referring to FIG. 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 60306696188.2 14104 / 1229could 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.

[0095] 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. In some embodiments, the leading frame member 74 and the trailing frame member 76 are integral and suspended relative to the main frame member 72. Other configurations of track systems are contemplated as well.

[0096] 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.

[0097] 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, 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.

[0098] 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 86, such that each306696188.2 14104 / 1229one of the front and rear idler wheel assemblies 80, 82, and the support wheel assemblies 84a, 84b, 84c has left and right wheels 86 (only the right wheel of each of the wheel assemblies 80, 82, 84 is shown in FIG. 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.

[0099] 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.

[0100] 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.

[0101] As best seen in FIGs. 1 and 2, the endless track 100 comprises a carcass 102 that 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. A plurality of lugs 108 project from the inner surface 104 and are configured to engage with the plurality of recesses 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. 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.

[0102] 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 each306696188.2 14104 / 1229wheel-engaging section 120a, 120b is typically the same as or larger than a width of the wheel with which it will engage.

[0103] 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 to travel. 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.

[0104] Any one or more of the support wheel assemblies 84a, 84b, 84c, the front idler wheel assembly 80, and the rear idler wheel assembly 82 (collectively referred to as “wheel assembly 84”) comprises left and right wheels 86 connected to respective wheel axles 88. The wheel assembly 84 does not include the driving wheel assembly 60. The left and right wheels 86 are spaced apart so that they engage with the wheel engaging sections 120a, 120b, respectively.

[0105] Referring to FIGs. 3-10, according to embodiments of the present technology, at least some of the wheels 86 of the wheel assembly 84 comprise a hub 150, a sleeve 152 disposed radially outwardly from the hub 150, a covering 154 disposed radially outwardly from the sleeve 152, and a wear ring 300.

[0106] The hub 150 provides support to the wheel assembly 84 and is configured to be connected to the wheel axle 88. The hub 150 is made of a metallic material, such as steel, and can be made by casting or any other suitable method. The sleeve 152 and the covering 154 are made of polymeric materials. The covering 154 may be made of an elastomeric material. In certain embodiments, the sleeve 152 and the covering 154 are made from different polymeric materials, such as ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene for the sleeve 152 and a rubber composition for the covering 154. Other polymeric materials are contemplated as well.306696188.2 14104 / 1229

[0107] The hub 150 and the sleeve 152 are connected to each other. In some embodiments, the sleeve 152 is overmolded or bonded onto the hub 150. In some embodiments, the connection between the hub 150 and the sleeve 152 includes a mechanical interlock. For example, as best seen in Figs. 4 and 5, a plurality of protrusions 156 on the sleeve 152 are configured to be received in a plurality of recesses 158 in the hub 150.

[0108] More specifically, the hub 150 comprises a hub outer side 160 and a hub inner side 162. The hub outer side 160 has a hub outer face 164 extending between a hub first lateral face 166 and a hub second lateral face 168. The hub inner side 162 has a hub inner face 165 extending between the hub first lateral face 166 and the hub second lateral face 168. A hub flange 170 extends radially inward from the hub inner face 165. In some embodiments, a lateral position of the hub flange 170 is off-center, being closer to the hub first lateral face 166 than to the hub second lateral face 168, or being closer to the hub second lateral face 168 than the hub first lateral face 166. In other words, the hub flange 170 is offset from a midline 172 of the hub 150 in some cases (see, for example, Figure 17). In some embodiments, the hub flange 170 is offset from a midline 175 of the sleeve 152 (also see, for example, Figure 17). Openings may be provided in the hub flange 170 for weight reduction and / or debris evacuation. Openings 174 are configured to connect the hub 150 to the axle assembly, as shown in FIG. 2.

[0109] The plurality of recesses 158 are defined in the hub outer face 164. The recesses 158 are arranged as pairs of recesses, the pairs being spaced circumferentially from one another. Each recess 158 of a pair of recesses is positioned laterally apart from one another, one recess 158 of the pair being proximate the hub first lateral face 166 and the other recess of the pair being proximate the hub second lateral face 168. Each recess 158 is “U” shaped, with an open end of the recess 158 at the respective hub first lateral face 166 or the hub second lateral face 168, and a closed end of the recess 158 being spaced laterally therefrom and rounded. The circumferential spacing of the recesses 158 is equal. In other embodiments, the recesses 158 can be arranged differently on the hub outer face 164 and may also be shaped differently.306696188.2 14104 / 1229

[0110] The sleeve 152 has a sleeve outer side 176 and a sleeve inner side 178. The sleeve outer side 176 has a sleeve outer face 180. The sleeve inner side 178 has a sleeve inner face 181 including a first lip 182 and a second lip 184 at a sleeve first lateral face 186 and a sleeve second lateral face 188, respectively. Each of the sleeve outer face 180 and the sleeve inner face 181 extend between the sleeve first lateral face 186 and the sleeve second lateral face 188. The sleeve may be made of a polymeric material, such as ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, and may be made by overmolding onto the hub 150. The sleeve outer face 180 is substantially flat when viewed in cross-section between the sleeve first lateral face 186 and the sleeve second lateral face 188, whereas the sleeve inner face 181 is contoured. The plurality of protrusions 156 are defined in the sleeve inner face 181. The protrusions 156 are arranged as pairs of protrusions 156, the pairs of protrusions 156 being spaced circumferentially from one another. The protrusions 156 of a pair of protrusions 156 are laterally spaced apart from one another, one protrusion 156 of the pair extending laterally from the first lip 182 and the other protrusion 156 of the pair extending laterally from the second lip 184. Each protrusion 156 is “U” shaped, with a straight part of the protrusion 156 being at the respective raised first or second lip 182, 184, and a rounded part of the protrusion 156 being spaced laterally therefrom and rounded. The circumferential spacing of the protrusions 156 is equal. The size, shape and spacing of the protrusions 156 on the sleeve inner face 181 matches the size, shape and spacing of the recesses 158 on the hub outer face 164, so as to matingly engage therewith.

[0111] In certain embodiments, one or both of the sleeve first lateral face 186 and the sleeve second lateral face 188 are angled away from the vertical. For example, the sleeve first lateral face 186 and the sleeve second lateral face 188 are angled towards each other. In other examples, only the sleeve second lateral face 188 is angled towards the covering second lateral face, the sleeve first lateral face 186 being generally vertical. As best seen in FIG. 2, the sleeve second lateral face 188 may be generally parallel to a side wall of the lugs 108, with which it will form contact in use.

[0112] With reference to Figure 17, a hub lateral width 190, defined as a distance between the hub first lateral face 166 and the hub second lateral face 168, in some306696188.2 14104 / 1229embodiments, is less than a sleeve lateral width 192, defined as a distance between the sleeve first lateral face 186 and the sleeve second lateral face 188.

[0113] When assembled, the hub outer face 164 engages with the sleeve inner face 181, with the hub recesses 158 receiving the sleeve protrusions 156. In some embodiments, a portion of the hub first lateral face 166 and the hub second lateral face 168 abuts the first lip 182 and the second lip 184 of the sleeve 152. The remainder of the hub first lateral face 166 and the hub second lateral face 168 extends away from the sleeve 152. Thus, in an assembled state, the sleeve 152 and the hub 150 cannot move relative to each other.

[0114] In certain embodiments, a portion of the hub outer face 164 has a lateral cross-sectional profile which is double-tapered: generally inclining in a direction from the hub first lateral face 166 towards the hub second lateral face 168, and in a direction from the hub second lateral face 168 towards the hub first lateral face 166 (see, for example, FIGs. 21-26). A peak portion 151 of the hub outer face 164 profile may be generally aligned with the sleeve midline 175. The peak portion 151 may be aligned or offset from the hub flange 170. The peak portion 151 may be pointed or curved. The peak portion 151 may correspond to a thickest part of the hub 150. The sleeve inner face 181 has a lateral cross-sectional profile that matches that of the hub outer face 164. Specifically, a portion of the sleeve inner face 181 has a lateral cross-sectional profile which generally declines in a direction from the sleeve first lateral face 186 towards the sleeve second lateral face 188, and in a direction from the sleeve second lateral face 188 towards the sleeve first lateral face 186 (see, for example, FIGs. 20-28).

[0115] It will be appreciated that the recesses can be defined in the sleeve 152 and the protrusions could be defined in the hub 150. It will also be appreciated that the protrusions and recesses may have any other shape or arrangement on the respective surfaces. For example, instead of a pair of protrusions and a pair of recesses disposed laterally, there may be provided a single protrusion and a single recess. In other embodiments, there may be provided more than two protrusions and more than two recesses disposed laterally.306696188.2 14104 / 1229

[0116] Turning now to the covering 154, in the embodiments of FIGs. 20-22, and 24-27, the covering 154 extends at least partially along the sleeve outer face 180 and stops short of the sleeve second lateral face 188 to expose a portion 194 of the sleeve outer face 180 in some embodiments. Specifically, the portion of the sleeve outer face 180 that is exposed is adjacent the sleeve second lateral face 188. The covering 154 may comprise a polymeric material, for example, rubber, and be made by overmolding onto the sleeve 152. In some embodiments, the covering 154 may be connected to the sleeve 152 by bonding, adhesive, and / or mechanical interlock. In those embodiments, a covering lateral width 196 is less than the sleeve lateral width 192. The covering lateral width 196 is more than the hub lateral width 190 in some cases.

[0117] Referring to Figure 17, the covering 154 comprises a covering outer side 198 and a covering inner side 200. The covering outer side 198 has a covering outer face 202, and the covering inner side 200 has a covering inner face 204. Each of the covering outer face 202 and the covering inner face 204 extends between a covering first lateral face 206 and a covering second lateral face 208. At least a portion of the covering outer face 202 is configured to engage with the inner surface 104 of the endless track 100. The at least portion of the covering outer face 202 engaging with the inner surface 104 of the endless track 100 may vary in operation, e.g., when the track system lays on a flat and level ground surface, overtakes an obstacle, and / or when the load applied thereto varies. The covering inner face 204 is substantially flat when viewed in cross-section between the covering first lateral face 206 and the covering second lateral face 208, whereas the covering outer face 202 is contoured. A profile of the covering inner face 204 matches a profile of the sleeve outer side 176.

[0118] More specifically, according to embodiments of the present technology, a profile of the covering outer face 202, when viewed in cross-section between the covering first lateral face 206 and the covering second lateral face 208, is asymmetric about a covering mid-line 210. For example, the profile may comprise: a substantially flat portion 212 extending from the covering first lateral face 206 towards the covering second lateral face 208, and a downwardly sloped portion 214 extending from the substantially flat portion 212 to the covering second lateral face 208. In some cases, the substantially flat306696188.2 14104 / 1229portion 212 extends beyond the covering midline 210. In other cases, the substantially flat portion 212 stops short of the midline 210. The substantially flat portion 212 of the covering outer face 202 is substantially parallel to the sleeve outer face 180 in some cases. A thickness of the covering 154 at the covering second lateral face 208 is thus less than a thickness of the covering 154 at the covering first lateral face 206. In some embodiments, a transition between the substantially flat portion 212 and the downwardly sloped portion 214 is a smooth transition. It is understood that in these embodiments, distribution of the load and / or pressure from the wheels 86 to the inner surface 104 of the endless track 100 is asymmetrical and thus influences the stress and / or deformation of the endless track 100. In addition, it is understood that providing the substantially flat portion 212 adjacent to the downwardly sloped portion 214 avoids forming an apex that may cause stress and / or pressure concentration in the wheel covering and / or the inner surface of the endless track, which may be detrimental in some cases.

[0119] In some embodiments, a lateral width 216 of the substantially flat portion 212 of the covering outer face 202 is more than a lateral width 218 of the sloped portion 214. In some embodiments, the lateral width 216 of the substantially flat portion is more than about 10% of the covering lateral width 196, such as more than about 15%, more than about 20%, more than about 25%, more than about 30%, more than about 35%, more than about 40%, more than about 45%, more than about 50%, more than about 55%, more than about 60%, more than about 65%, more than about 70%, more than about 75% or more than about 80%.

[0120] In some embodiments, the lateral width 216 of the substantially flat portion 212 of the covering outer face 202 is about the same as the lateral width 218 of the sloped portion 214.

[0121] In some embodiments, the lateral width 216 of the substantially flat portion 212 of the covering outer face 202 is less than the lateral width 218 of the sloped portion 214.

[0122] In some embodiments, the lateral width 218 of the sloped portion 214 is greater than a lateral width 220 of the exposed portion 194 of the sleeve outer face 180.306696188.2 14104 / 1229The lateral width 218 of the sloped portion 214 is less than about 50% of the covering lateral width 196, such as less than about 45%, less than about 40%, less than about 35%, less than about 30%, less than about 25%, or less than about 20%.

[0123] An angle between the substantially flat portion 212 and the sloped portion 214 is about 55°, about 50°, about 45°, about 40°, about 35°, about 30°, about 25°, about 20°, about 15° or about 10°. In some embodiments, the sloped portion 214 comprises a first sloped portion 214a, which is adjacent to the substantially flat portion 212, and a second sloped portion 214b, which is adjacent to the covering second lateral face 208, the first sloped portion 214a having a different angle relative to the flat portion 212 than the second sloped portion 214b. In some embodiments, the angle of the first sloped portion 214a relative to the flat portion 212 is less than the angle of the second sloped portion 214b relative to the flat portion 212.

[0124] The covering first lateral face 206 and the substantially flat portion 212 meet at a first rounded junction 222 having a first radius. The covering second lateral face 208 and the sloped portion 214 meet at a second rounded junction 224 having a second radius. The first radius is more than the second radius in certain embodiments.

[0125] The covering first lateral face 206 meets the sleeve outer face 180 with a first root radius, and the covering second lateral face 208 meets the sleeve outer face 180 with a second root radius. The first root radius is more than the second root radius in certain embodiments.

[0126] It is to be noted that in certain embodiments, the covering first lateral face 206 and the covering second lateral face 208 are angled (off-set from the vertical). The covering first lateral face 206 is angled towards the covering second lateral face 208, and the covering second lateral face 208 is angled towards the covering first lateral face 206. In other embodiments, the covering first lateral face 206 and the covering second lateral face 208 may be substantially vertical.

[0127] In terms of relative lateral positioning, the hub flange 170 is disposed laterally within the substantially flat portion 212 of the covering outer face 202. As the hub306696188.2 14104 / 1229lateral width 190 is less than the sleeve lateral width 192, the hub 150 is not laterally within the portion 194 of the sleeve outer face that is exposed.

[0128] Turning now to the wear ring 300 and with particular reference to Figs. 2 to 16. The wear ring 300 is disposed on the inward side of the wheel assembly 84 and configured to contact the lugs 108 on the inner surface 104 of the endless track 100. The wear ring 300 is removably connected to one or both of the hub 150 and the sleeve 152 such that it can be replaced once worn. This can prolong a lifetime of the wheel assembly 84.

[0129] Referring to the embodiment of Figs. 4-10, the wear ring 300 has a contact portion 302 that extends circumferentially along the sleeve second lateral face 188 and the hub second lateral face 168. The contact portion 302 is substantially annular and has a covering end 304 proximate the covering 154 and a hub end 306 proximate the hub 150. The covering and hub ends 304, 306 are radially spaced from one another and define a radial length 308. The contact portion 302 has an outer lateral face 310 and an inner lateral face 312 extending between the covering and hub ends 304, 306. The inner lateral face 312 is parallel to the sleeve second lateral face 188 and the hub second lateral face 168. The covering end 304 is substantially flush with the exposed portion 194 of the sleeve outer face 180. The outer lateral face 310 has a sloped profile from the covering end 304 towards the hub end 306. A thickness 314 of the wear ring 300 increases substantially linearly from the covering end 304 towards the hub end 306 along only a portion of the radial length 308. At the hub end 306, the wear ring 300 has a connector portion 316 that extends laterally away from the contact portion 302. The connector portion 316 has an inner radial face 318 that faces the hub 150 and an outer radial face 320. The outer radial face 320 may be substantially aligned with the hub inner side 162. The inner radial face 318 comprises a wear ring lipped portion 322. The wear ring lipped portion 322 is configured to engage with a hub lipped portion 324 of the hub 150 to connect the wear ring 300 to the hub 150. The hub lipped portion 324 and the wear ring lipped portion 322 extend radially.

[0130] Another embodiment of the wear ring 300 is shown in FIGs. 11-16. The wear ring 300 of FIGs. 11-16 differs from the wear ring 300 of FIGs. 4-10 notably in the306696188.2 14104 / 1229manner that the wear ring 300 attaches to the hub 150. The inner radial face 318 of the connector portion 316 does not include a wear ring lipped portion. Instead, the inner radial face 318 is uninterrupted. An opening 326 is defined in the wear ring 300 at the hub end 306 and extends through the contact portion 302 and the connector portion 316. The opening 326 is configured to receive a fastener 328 that can extend into the hub 150 to thereby connect the wear ring 300 to the wheel assembly 84.

[0131] The wear ring 300 may be made of any suitable material, such as ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene. The wear ring 300 may be made by molding.

[0132] Generally, the hub first lateral face 166, the sleeve first lateral face 186 and the covering first lateral face 206 are all on a same side (first side) of the wheel 86 relative to a centreline of the wheel 86. Similarly, the wear ring 300, the hub second lateral face 168, the sleeve second lateral face 188 and the covering second lateral face 208 are all on an opposite side (second side) of the wheel 86 relative to the centreline. As depicted, the hub first lateral face 166, the sleeve first lateral face 186 and the covering first lateral face 206 are all at an outward side of the wheel assembly 84, and the wear ring 300, the hub second lateral face 168, the sleeve second lateral face 188 and the covering second lateral face 208 are all at an inward side of the wheel assembly 84.

[0133] By means of the configurations of the hub 150, the sleeve 152, the covering 154 and the wear ring 300, in certain embodiments, the wheel assembly 84 can have an extended lifetime compared to conventional wheel assemblies. The configuration of the sleeve 152 and the covering 154 can distribute pressure on the endless track 100 in a manner that can help to extend a lifetime of the endless track 100, and the wear ring 300 can provide a wearing surface against the lugs which can be replaced when worn. More specifically, the asymmetrical profile of the covering 154 helps to distribute stresses and / or pressure in such a way that deformation and subsequent heat generation are reduced or minimized. In some embodiments, compared to prior art systems, stresses / pressures are distributed more evenly to the inner face of the endless track 100 or stress / pressure concentrations are reduced or minimized.306696188.2 14104 / 1229

[0134] Any material(s) or method(s) of manufacture which produce such components may be used in the present technology.

[0135] 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.306696188.2 14104 / 1229

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. Wheel for a track system of a vehicle, the track system including an endless track with lugs, the wheel comprising:a hub having a hub outer face and a hub inner face, the hub outer and inner faces extending between a hub first lateral face and a hub second lateral face;a sleeve disposed radially outwardly from, and connected to, the hub,the sleeve having a sleeve outer face and a sleeve inner face, the sleeve outer and inner faces extending between a sleeve first lateral face and a sleeve second lateral face;a covering disposed radially outwardly from, and connected to, the sleeve, the covering having a covering outer face for engaging with an inner surface of the endless track and a covering inner face, the covering outer and inner faces extending between a covering first lateral face and a covering second lateral face;the covering extending partially along the sleeve outer face and stopping short of the sleeve second lateral face to expose a portion of the sleeve outer face; anda wear ring extending circumferentially along the sleeve second lateral face and the hub second lateral face, wherein the wear ring is removably connected to one or both of the hub and the sleeve.

2. The wheel of claim 1, wherein the wear ring has a covering end, wherein the covering end is substantially flush with the exposed portion of the sleeve outer face.

3. The wheel of claim 2, wherein the wear ring has a hub end, and a thickness of the wear ring is less at the covering end than at the hub end.306696188.2 14104 / 12294. The wheel of claim 3, wherein the wear ring has a radial length, and the thickness of the wear ring increases substantially linearly from the covering end towards the hub end along only a portion of the radial length.

5. The wheel of any one of claims 1-4, wherein the wear ring is removably connected to the hub by a connector extending through the wear ring into the hub.

6. The wheel of any one of claims 1-4, wherein the hub further comprises a hub lipped portion and the wear ring further comprises a wear ring lipped portion, wherein the wear ring is removably connected to the hub by inter-engagement of the hub lipped portion and the wear ring lipped portion.

7. The wheel of claim 6, wherein the hub lipped portion and the wear ring lipped portion extend radially.

8. The wheel of any one of claims 1-7, wherein the covering outer face has a lateral profile comprising:a substantially flat portion extending from the covering first lateral face towards the covering second lateral face, anda downwardly sloped portion extending from the flat portion to the covering second lateral face.

9. The wheel of claim 8, wherein the substantially flat portion of the covering outer face is substantially parallel to the sleeve outer face.

10. The wheel of claim 8 or claim 9, wherein the substantially flat portion extends from the covering first lateral face to beyond a midline of the covering.

11. The wheel of any one of claims 1-10, wherein the covering second lateral face is on an inward side of the wheel which will face the lugs in use.306696188.2 14104 / 122912. The wheel of any one of claims 1-11, wherein a sleeve lateral width is greater than a covering lateral width, and both the sleeve lateral width and the covering lateral width are greater than a hub lateral width.

13. The wheel of any one of claims 8-12, wherein the downwardly sloped portion comprises:a first sloped portion adjacent the flat portion and having a first angle relative to the flat portion, anda second sloped portion adjacent the covering second lateral face and having a second angle relative to the flat portion,wherein the first and second angles are different.

14. The wheel of claim 13, wherein the first angle is less than the second angle.

15. The wheel of any one of claims 1-14, wherein the sleeve second lateral face is angled towards the covering second lateral face.

16. The wheel of any one of claims 1-15, wherein the covering first lateral face is angled towards the covering second lateral face.

17. The wheel of any one of claims 1-16, wherein the hub comprises:a hub outer face and a hub inner face, the hub outer and inner faces extending between a hub first lateral face and a hub second lateral face, anda hub flange extending radially inward from the hub inner face.

18. The wheel of claim 17, wherein the hub flange is disposed closer to the hub first lateral face than to the hub second lateral face.306696188.2 14104 / 122919. The wheel of claim 17, wherein the hub flange is disposed closer to the hub second lateral face than to the hub first lateral face.

20. The wheel of any one of claims 17-19, wherein the hub outer face has a lateral profile including a peak portion.

21. The wheel of any one of claims 1-20, wherein the sleeve and the hub are connected by a mechanical interlock.

22. The wheel of claim 21, when dependent on any one of claims 17-20, wherein the mechanical interlock comprises a plurality of protrusions defined in the sleeve inner face which are received within a plurality of recesses defined in the hub outer face.

23. The wheel of claim 22, wherein the protrusions comprise pairs of protrusions, each protrusion of the pair being spaced laterally, the pairs of protrusions being disposed circumferentially on the sleeve inner face.

24. The wheel of any one of claims 1-23, wherein the hub is made of a metallic material, the sleeve is made of a polymeric material, the covering is made of an elastomeric material, and the wear ring is made of a polymeric material.

25. The wheel of claim 24, wherein the polymeric material is ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene and the elastomeric material is rubber.

26. The wheel of any one of claims 1-25, wherein the wheel forms part of a support wheel assembly.

27. A wheel assembly for a track system of a vehicle, the wheel assembly comprising: a left wheel and a right wheel disposed about a wheel axle, the left and right wheels as defined in any one of claims 1-26.306696188.2 14104 / 122928. The wheel assembly of claim 27, wherein the wheel assembly is not a driving wheel assembly.

29. A track system comprising:a frame;at least one wheel assembly as defined in claim 27 or claim 28 rotationally connected to the frame; andan endless track surrounding the frame and the at least one wheel assembly.

30. A vehicle having a chassis, an engine and the track system of claim 29.

31. A kit comprising a wheel for a track system of a vehicle, the track system including an endless track with lugs, a wear ring which is detachably attachable to the wheel,the wheel comprising:a hub having a hub outer face and a hub inner face, the hub outer and inner faces extending between a hub first lateral face and a hub second lateral face; a sleeve disposed radially outwardly from, and connected to, the hub, the sleeve having a sleeve outer face and a sleeve inner face, the sleeve outer and inner faces extending between a sleeve first lateral face and a sleeve second lateral face;a covering disposed radially outwardly from, and connected to, the sleeve, the covering having a covering outer face for engaging with an inner surface of the endless track and a covering inner face, the covering outer and inner faces extending between a covering first lateral face and a covering second lateral face;the covering extending partially along the sleeve outer face and stopping short of the sleeve second lateral face to expose a portion of the sleeve outer face,306696188.2 14104 / 1229wherein the covering outer face has a lateral profile comprising:a substantially flat portion extending from the covering first lateral face towards the covering second lateral face, anda downwardly sloped portion extending from the flat portion to the covering second lateral face; andwherein the wear ring is sized and shaped to extend circumferentially along the sleeve second lateral face and the hub second lateral face when the wear ring is removably connected to one or both of the hub and the sleeve.

32. Wheel for a track system of a vehicle, the track system including an endless track with lugs, the wheel comprising:a hub;a sleeve disposed radially outwardly from, and connected to, the hub,the sleeve having a sleeve outer face and a sleeve inner face, the sleeve outer and inner faces extending between a sleeve first lateral face and a sleeve second lateral face; anda covering disposed radially outwardly from, and connected to, the sleeve,the covering having a covering outer face for engaging with an inner surface of the endless track and a covering inner face, the covering outer and inner faces extending between a covering first lateral face and a covering second lateral face;the covering extending partially along the sleeve outer face and stopping short of the sleeve second lateral face to expose a portion of the sleeve outer face,wherein the covering outer face has a lateral profile comprising:a substantially flat portion extending from the covering first lateral face towards the covering second lateral face, and306696188.2 14104 / 1229a downwardly sloped portion extending from the flat portion to the covering second lateral face.

33. The wheel of claim 32, wherein the substantially flat portion of the covering outer face is substantially parallel to the sleeve outer face.

34. The wheel of claim 32 or 33, wherein the substantially flat portion extends from the covering first lateral face to beyond a midline of the covering.

35. The wheel of any one of claims 32-34, wherein the covering second lateral face is on an inward side of the wheel which will face the lugs in use.

36. The wheel of any one of claims 32-35, wherein a sleeve lateral width is greater than a covering lateral width, and both the sleeve lateral width and the covering lateral width are greater than a hub lateral width.

37. The wheel of any one of claims 32-36, wherein the downwardly sloped portion comprises:a first sloped portion adjacent the flat portion and having a first angle relative to the flat portion, anda second sloped portion adjacent the covering second lateral face and having a second angle relative to the flat portion,wherein the first and second angles are different.

38. The wheel of claim 37, wherein the first angle is less than the second angle.

39. The wheel of any one of claims 32-38, wherein the sleeve second lateral face is angled towards the covering second lateral face.306696188.2 14104 / 122940. The wheel of any one of claims 32-39, wherein the covering first lateral face is angled towards the covering second lateral face.

41. The wheel of any one of claims 32-40, wherein the hub comprises:a hub outer face and a hub inner face, the hub outer and inner faces extending between a hub first lateral face and a hub second lateral face, anda hub flange extending radially inward from the hub inner face.

42. The wheel of claim 41, wherein the hub flange is disposed closer to the hub first lateral face than to the hub second lateral face.

43. The wheel of claim 41, wherein the hub flange is disposed closer to the hub second lateral face than to the hub first lateral face.

44. The wheel of any one of claims 41-43, wherein the hub outer face has a lateral profile including a peak portion.

45. The wheel of any one of claims 32-44, wherein the sleeve and the hub are connected by a mechanical interlock.

46. The wheel of claim 45 when dependent on any one of claims 41-44, wherein the mechanical interlock comprises a plurality of protrusions defined in the sleeve inner face which are received within a plurality of recesses defined in the hub outer face.

47. The wheel of claim 46, wherein the protrusions comprise pairs of protrusions, each protrusion of the pair being spaced laterally, the pairs of protrusions being disposed circumferentially on the sleeve inner face.306696188.2 14104 / 122948. The wheel of any one of claims 32-47, wherein the hub is made of a metallic material, the sleeve is made of a polymeric material and the covering is made of an elastomeric material.

49. The wheel of claim 48, wherein the polymeric material is ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene and the elastomeric material is rubber.

50. The wheel of any one of claims 32-49, wherein the wheel forms part of a support wheel assembly.

51. A wheel assembly for a track system of a vehicle, the wheel assembly comprising:a left wheel and a right wheel disposed about a wheel axle, the left and right wheels as defined in any one of claims 32-50.

52. The wheel assembly of claim 51, wherein the wheel assembly is not a driving wheel assembly.

53. A track system comprising:a frame;at least one wheel assembly as defined in claim 51 or 52 rotationally connected to the frame; andan endless track surrounding the frame and the at least one wheel assembly.

54. A vehicle having a chassis, an engine and the track system of claim 53.306696188.2 14104 / 1229

Images