Modular Forest Machine Track Links for Field Repair and Terrain Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing forest machine tracks are difficult to repair and cannot be easily adapted for different terrains, requiring cutting and welding for maintenance and being limited to specific terrain types.
Innovation Solution
A forest machine track design featuring releasable connecting links between C-shaped track links, allowing easy replacement and length adjustment of track sections, enabling quick repair and adaptation to various terrains.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional forest machine tracks are designed for specific terrains, then they provide optimized performance for that terrain, but they cannot be adapted to other terrains
Solution Approach 1:
The track is divided into separate modular components including track plates, C-shaped track links, and connecting links that can be independently assembled and disassembled. This segmentation enables the track to be reconfigured for different terrains by replacing or rearranging modules without redesigning the entire track system.
Solution Approach 2:
The track structure incorporates releasable connecting links with pin connections that allow dynamic reconfiguration. The connecting links can be quickly attached and detached to change track geometry, plate spacing, and configuration based on terrain requirements, making the track adaptable rather than static.
2Ease of repair
If conventional forest machine tracks are damaged, then repair requires cutting and welding, but this process is difficult and time-consuming on forest sites
Solution Approach 1:
The track's modular segmented design allows damaged sections to be isolated and replaced independently. Individual track plates or connecting links can be swapped out without affecting the entire track, enabling quick field repairs using simple mechanical connections rather than complex welding operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The design accepts that individual connecting links or track plates may be replaceable consumable components. Rather than attempting to repair complex welded joints, the system is designed so that damaged modular components can be quickly replaced with spare parts, reducing repair time and complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If fixed-configuration tracks are used, then manufacturing is simplified, but the tracks cannot be adjusted for different terrains or lengths
Solution Approach 1:
The track is manufactured as an assembly of standardized modular components rather than as a single fixed structure. Each module (track plate, C-shaped link, connecting link) can be manufactured independently using standardized processes, then assembled in various configurations to meet different terrain and length requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular components are designed with universal interfaces and standardized dimensions that allow the same basic parts to serve multiple functions and configurations. A single set of connecting links and track plates can be arranged to create tracks suitable for different terrains and lengths, reducing the need for multiple specialized track designs.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3A
Figure 3B
AI summary
The present invention relates to a forest machine track (100) that comprises track plates (101) and C-shaped track links (102, 103), which are attached to ends of the track plates (101). The C-shaped track links (102, 103) of adjacent track plates (101) are connected to each other with connecting links (104, 105). Each connecting link (104, 105) comprises a first connecting part (108) and a second connecting part (109), which are releasably attached to each other, and wherein the first connecting part (108) and the second connecting part (109) are connected to different C-shaped track links (102, 103).