Adjustable Track Assemblies for Narrow-Wide Vehicle Configurations

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing track assemblies for compact utility vehicles are difficult to configure between narrow and wide configurations, often requiring dismounting of the engine or specialized training, and may not fit due to frame shape constraints, leading to ground pressure issues and stability limitations.

Innovation Solution

A track assembly design with adjustable plates and connectors that allow conversion between narrow and wide configurations by using slots and bolt holes, allowing the track assemblies to be moved relative to the vehicle frame without dismounting the engine, using bolts and slots to adjust the track position.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If track assemblies are made fixed in a single configuration, then manufacturing and installation are simplified, but the vehicle cannot adapt to different ground conditions or operational requirements

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetrack configuration adaptabilityVSAvoidtrack assembly structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment plate is segmented into multiple sections with different attachment point arrangements, allowing the track assembly to be configured in multiple ways by selecting different segments for attachment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The track assembly transitions from a static fixed configuration to a dynamic adjustable configuration, enabling the vehicle to adapt track width and position based on operational requirements

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Stability of the object's composition

If track assemblies are designed for wide configuration only, then stability is improved, but maneuverability in narrow spaces deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevehicle stabilityVSAvoidmaneuverability

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The track assembly allows dynamic adjustment between wide and narrow configurations, providing stability when needed and maneuverability when required

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of operation

If track assemblies are designed for narrow configuration only, then maneuverability is improved, but stability and ground pressure distribution deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovemaneuverabilityVSAvoidvehicle stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The track assembly enables dynamic reconfiguration from narrow to wide position, allowing the vehicle to optimize stability and ground pressure distribution when needed

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

4Adaptability or versatility

If specialized components are used for track configuration adjustment, then configuration flexibility is improved, but ease of operation and training requirements worsen

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconfiguration flexibilityVSAvoidoperator training requirement

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment plate design allows operators to reconfigure track assemblies using standard tools and procedures, making the system self-sufficient without requiring specialized components or extensive training

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS12460377B2Adjustable tracks

Publication Date: 2025.11.04 CHARLES MACHINE WORKS INC

AI summary

A vehicle having two configurations. The vehicle has two track frames, one on each side of a vehicle frame. The position of the track frames is adjustable relative to the vehicle frame by removing a connector, such as a first bolt, from a hole in the vehicle frame and a plate extending from the track frame. Another bolt is disposed in the vehicle frame and a slot in the plate. The track frame may be moved inwardly or outwardly to change the vehicle's configuration, and the first bolt reattached through the plate at a different hole in the vehicle frame.