Crawler Track Tensioning System with Roller Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional track and tumbler designs for crawler systems are heavy and costly due to the need for large teeth and lugs to transmit tractive force, and the process of reconnecting and tensioning tracks is time-consuming and complex, especially for large cranes.
Innovation Solution
A tumbler design that transmits torque through a rim to track shoes and drive teeth, allowing for reduced weight and size of components, along with a track tensioning system using a roller positioning structure to easily establish and adjust track tension, and a track connection system for efficient installation and reconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If conventional tumbler designs with large teeth and lugs are used to transmit tractive force, then the tractive force transmission capability is improved, but the weight and material cost of the crawler components increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The track is segmented into modular track shoes that can be individually replaced, and the tumbler teeth are designed as separate replaceable components. This segmentation allows wear to be localized to individual elements rather than requiring replacement of entire heavy components, effectively reducing the operational weight burden while maintaining force transmission capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the geometric parameters of the track shoes and tumbler teeth to optimize the contact area and force distribution. By modifying the shape and size parameters of the engaging surfaces, the design achieves adequate tractive force transmission with reduced material volume, thereby lowering weight while maintaining functional performance.
2Weight of moving object
If the track is removed and reconnected on large cranes to meet highway transportation weight limits, then the transportation compliance is improved, but the reconnection process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The track shoes are pre-assembled into modular sections with connection mechanisms prepared in advance. This preliminary preparation allows for rapid connection during field installation or reconnection operations, significantly reducing the time required to reassemble tracks after transportation without compromising the weight reduction benefits.
3Reliability
If conventional track tensioning methods are used on large cranes, then the track tension can be established, but the process becomes complex and difficult to perform accurately
Solution Approach 1:
The track tensioning system is designed to be self-adjusting through the modular track shoe arrangement and connection mechanisms. The system automatically achieves proper tension through the mechanical interaction of the modular components during assembly, eliminating the need for complex external tensioning equipment and reducing operational complexity while maintaining reliable tension establishment.
Data Source
AI summary
A crawler has a track tensioning system. The crawler includes a crawler frame having a bottom; at least one drive tumbler supported on the frame; a track made of a plurality of connected track shoes and is wrapped around the drive tumbler so that a plurality of the shoes are in contact with the drive tumbler. The track tensioning system, mounted to the frame, includes a roller engaging the inside surface of the track; and a roller positioning structure attached to the frame that can raise the roller relative to the bottom of the frame to thereby increase the tension of the track.