Mechanical Work Sampling for Tracked Vehicle Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Tracked vehicles in terrestrial robotics face uncertainty in center of gravity calculation due to varying sensor and actuator configurations, leading to stability issues when overcoming obstacles, which can result in capsizing.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical work sampling system with variable geometry secondary tracks and support arms that can tilt and adjust angle to maintain stability, allowing for dynamic center of gravity adjustment and obstacle traversal without additional complex actuators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If articulated extensions with additional actuators are added to control track elevation and extension, then vehicle stability when overcoming obstacles is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service mechanism where the secondary track's elevation and extension are automatically controlled by the main tracks through mechanical coupling. The support arm rotates and the secondary track elevates passively as the main track moves, eliminating the need for additional independent actuators. This resolves the contradiction by achieving vehicle stability through self-regulating mechanical geometry rather than complex active control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The main track serves multiple functions: it propels the vehicle forward and simultaneously controls the elevation and extension of the secondary track through its mechanical coupling with the support arm. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate actuators, thereby improving stability without proportionally increasing device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If sensors and actuators are configured for specific applications in terrestrial robotics, then mission-specific performance is improved, but center of gravity calculation uncertainty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic geometric configuration where the secondary track can change its elevation and extension relative to the main track. This dynamic adaptability allows the vehicle to adjust its center of gravity position in real-time based on terrain conditions and mission requirements, while the mechanical coupling ensures predictable geometric relationships that maintain calculation precision.
3Stability of the object's composition
If variable geometry secondary tracks are implemented to adjust center of gravity, then stability when overcoming obstacles is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the track system into modular segments: a main track and one or more secondary tracks connected through support arms. Each segment can be manufactured independently using standard components, and the variable geometry is achieved through simple rotational joints and mechanical couplings rather than complex integrated structures, reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining stability.
Data Source
AI summary
A mechanical work sampling system (10) is for the operation of extensions articulated in vehicular applications. The system is susceptible of being applied on a tracked vehicle (30) and includes at least a supporting arm (40) and a secondary track (22; 23) associated to the supporting arm. The supporting arm (40) is configurable in rotation configuration within which it rotates with respect to a first end (41) through a sampling of work from the main propulsor of the tracked vehicle (30).