Adjustable Track Frames for Narrow-Wide Vehicle Conversion
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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 design constraints, leading to issues with ground pressure, turf damage, and stability.
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, enabling easy adjustment without dismounting the engine, and allowing tracks to maintain contact with the frame.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If track assemblies are designed with fixed attachment positions, then manufacturing and installation are simplified, but the vehicle cannot be easily reconfigured between narrow and wide configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism transitions from a static fixed-position design to a dynamic adjustable design. The track assembly incorporates movable attachment plates with multiple alignment holes that can be positioned at different locations along the track frame, allowing the attachment points to be dynamically reconfigured between narrow and wide configurations while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
2Ease of operation
If specialized tools and training are required for track configuration changes, then configuration accuracy is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism is designed to be self-aligning and self-configuring. The attachment plates feature multiple pre-drilled alignment holes that automatically guide the bolts into the correct positions when the track assembly is moved between configurations. This eliminates the need for specialized tools or training, as the design itself provides the alignment and configuration guidance.
3Productivity
If the engine must be dismounted for track configuration changes, then access to attachment points is improved, but productivity and time efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is segmented into independent components: the track frame, the attachment plates, and the bolt connections. This segmentation allows the attachment plates to be independently repositioned and reconfigured without requiring disassembly of the engine or other major components. The modular design enables quick configuration changes by simply moving and reattaching the plate components.
Data Source
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.