Adjustable Track Assembly for Even Load Distribution on Uneven Ground
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional track systems for vehicles face challenges in accurately measuring or estimating load distribution across the ground engaging segment, leading to uneven pressure spots and premature wear, especially when traversing uneven terrain or changing road profiles.
Innovation Solution
A track system with a multi-pivot assembly and adjustable actuators that allow for dynamic adjustment of camber, toe-in/toe-out angles, and idler wheel positioning, enhancing load distribution and reducing wear by conforming to varying ground conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional track systems are used with fixed structural components, then the track system is simple in structure, but the load distribution across the ground engaging segment becomes uneven under dynamic conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the track system components movable and adjustable rather than fixed. The idler wheels are positioned on movable assemblies that can adjust their position relative to the frame, and the frame itself can pivot relative to the chassis. This dynamic capability allows the track system to adapt to varying ground conditions and maintain even load distribution across the ground engaging segment during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by allowing the camber angle and toe-in/toe-out angles of the track system to be adjusted. These angular parameters can be modified to optimize load distribution under different operating conditions. The movable idler wheel assemblies enable changes in the geometric parameters of the track system, allowing adaptation to maintain uniform load distribution across the ground engaging segment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the track system uses fixed configuration, then the device is easy to operate, but it cannot adapt to varying terrain and load conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the track system dynamic with movable idler wheel assemblies and a pivotable frame that can adapt to varying terrain conditions. The system automatically adjusts its configuration through the movable components, providing terrain adaptability without requiring complex manual control operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The track system is designed with multi-functionality to handle various terrain types and loading conditions. The movable idler assemblies and adjustable angles allow the same system configuration to serve multiple functions across different operating conditions, from soft ground to paved surfaces, and varying load distributions.
3Productivity
If conventional track systems are used, then the vehicle can operate on soft ground, but the load is not evenly distributed causing soil compaction and premature wear
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the track system through movable idler assemblies and adjustable camber/toe angles. This allows the track to conform to the ground surface and distribute load evenly across the ground engaging segment, preventing both soil compaction and premature component wear while maintaining vehicle mobility on soft ground.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by allowing different portions of the track system to have different positions and orientations. The movable idler wheel assemblies can be positioned independently to optimize local load distribution across the ground engaging segment, ensuring even pressure distribution and preventing high-pressure spots that cause soil compaction and wear.
Data Source
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AI summary
A track system includes an attachment assembly, a frame assembly connected to the attachment assembly including at least one wheel-bearing frame member. The track system further has leading and trailing idler wheel assemblies at least indirectly connected to the at least one wheel-bearing frame member, at least one support wheel assembly at least indirectly connected to the at least one wheel-bearing frame member, an endless track extending around the leading idler wheel assembly, the trailing idler wheel assembly, and the at least one support wheel assembly. At least one monitoring sensor connected to the endless track and including an array of sensing devices communicates with a track system controller for determining, at least indirectly, at least one of a state of the track system and a ground surface condition.