Modular Track Frame With Adjustable Tension for Variable Terrain
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional track systems for vehicles are optimized for specific conditions, leading to issues such as poor traction and ground compaction, and lack flexibility to adapt to varying terrain and conditions.
Innovation Solution
A modular frame system for track systems that allows interchangeable lower frame members, enabling different configurations for varying ground contact areas and traction properties, combined with a tensioner for adjusting track tension.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional track systems are optimized for specific conditions with fixed configurations, then they provide reliable traction for those conditions, but they cannot adapt to varying terrains and conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The track system is divided into modular frame members that can be independently interchanged. The frame includes an upper frame member and a lower frame member, where the lower frame member can be replaced with different configurations (e.g., different numbers of support wheels or idler wheels) to adapt to various terrain conditions without replacing the entire track system.
Solution Approach 2:
The track system transitions from a fixed configuration to a dynamically adjustable configuration. The modular design allows the operator to change the lower frame member configuration based on current terrain requirements, making the system adaptable rather than static.
2Force
If track systems use more support wheels to increase traction, then traction improves, but handling properties deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The lower frame member is segmented into configurable components including multiple support wheels and idler wheels. By selectively replacing the lower frame member with versions having different numbers of support wheels, the system can optimize for either maximum traction (more support wheels) or better handling (fewer support wheels) depending on operational needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows changing the parameter of support wheel quantity by interchangeably mounting different lower frame members. This enables adjustment of the traction-handling balance by varying the number of support wheels in the configuration.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If track systems are designed for maximum ground contact area to reduce ground compaction, then ground surface protection improves, but vehicle speed and mobility may decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The lower frame member configuration can be segmented to include different numbers and arrangements of support wheels and idler wheels. This allows optimization of ground contact area by selecting appropriate configurations - more wheels distribute weight better for soft ground, while fewer wheels reduce drag for speed-critical applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The ground contact area parameter can be adjusted by changing the lower frame member configuration. Different configurations provide different ground contact areas, allowing the system to adapt between maximum contact area for ground protection and reduced contact area for speed optimization.
Data Source
AI summary
A tensioner for adjusting a tension in an endless track of a track system is disclosed. The tensioner includes a resilient portion and a wheel connecting portion. The resilient portion is connectable to a frame of the track system, the resilient portion being oriented generally vertically. The wheel connecting portion is pivotally connectable to the frame of the track system, is connected to the resilient portion and is configured to connect to an idler wheel assembly. A track system having the tensioner is also disclosed.