Modular Tracked Undercarriage with Quick-Disconnect Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Tracked vehicles have limited functionality due to permanently secured single work tools, leading to high capital outlays and reduced flexibility in meeting diverse customer demands, as each configuration requires a separate vehicle, increasing production costs and limiting equipment utilization.
Innovation Solution
A modular crawler undercarriage system with a center channel that supports interchangeable work tools, such as telescoping arms, scissor lifts, and dump boxes, allowing quick reconfiguration without the need for multiple vehicles, using a center channel with side walls and brackets to secure modular units with quick disconnect elements for hydraulic and electrical connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a permanently mounted single-function work tool is used on a tracked vehicle, then the structural rigidity and simplicity of the chassis is maintained, but the adaptability and versatility of the equipment is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The work tool is divided into separate modular components that can be independently attached and detached from the chassis. The tool is segmented into a main body and separate mounting components, allowing it to be quickly removed and replaced without affecting the structural integrity of the chassis itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system transitions from a static permanent attachment to a dynamic removable attachment. The work tool can be quickly mounted and removed using simplified mounting mechanisms, enabling the equipment to adapt to different work requirements without permanent modifications to the chassis.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple tracked vehicles with different work tools are purchased to meet diverse customer demands, then the functional requirements of different customers are met, but the capital outlay and production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single tracked vehicle chassis is designed with universal mounting capabilities that can accommodate multiple different work tools. The chassis includes standardized mounting points and a universal attachment mechanism that allows different tools to be interchangeably mounted, making one vehicle capable of performing multiple functions that previously required separate vehicles.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of discarding the chassis when a work tool is replaced, the system allows the chassis to be recovered and reused with a different tool. The removable mounting system enables the chassis to be maintained and reused across different tool configurations, reducing the need to purchase multiple complete vehicle systems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the number of optional accessories and combinations available on a tracked vehicle is increased, then the ability to meet diverse customer demands is improved, but the cost to assemble and produce the vehicle increases
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle configuration is segmented into a base chassis and separate optional accessory modules. Each accessory is a discrete component that can be independently manufactured and attached to the chassis, simplifying the production process compared to building complete customized vehicles for each customer requirement.
Solution Approach 2:
The chassis is designed with universal mounting interfaces that can accommodate multiple optional accessories. This standardization allows the same chassis to be produced with different accessories based on customer needs, reducing the overall production complexity and cost compared to building specialized vehicles for each application.
Data Source
AI summary
A crawler undercarriage configured for modular attachment of work tools wherein the crawler undercarriage operates on at least two endless crawler tracks. Each crawler track extends around and is driven by a crawler sprocket at one extremity of its travel and extending around an idler roller at its other extremity of travel. The crawler undercarriage configured for modular attachment of work tools comprising a longitudinally extending center channel for securing a modular tool. The crawler undercarriage also includes at least one substantially vertical support member extending upwardly from the center channel. The crawler undercarriage also includes at least one mounting bracket secured to extending upwardly from the substantially vertical support member, wherein the modular member is secured to the at least one lower mounting bracket on the substantially vertical support member.