Monolithic Track Sub-Frame Casting for Working Vehicles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional track sub-frames for working machines are expensive to produce due to the assembly of many components and require costly fasteners for attachment to the ground engaging lower structure.
Innovation Solution
A monolithic casting is used for the inner and outer track sub-frame members with integral cross members, which include recesses for track supporting devices and a track motor mounting, reducing component count and facilitating assembly and debris removal, and are welded to a main frame structure for enhanced strength.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional fabricated structures are used for track sub-frames, then assembly flexibility is improved, but production cost increases due to assembly of many components and fasteners
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate components (inner members, outer members, cross members) into a single monolithic casting. This integration eliminates the need for assembling multiple parts with fasteners, directly reducing production cost and component count while maintaining structural functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The monolithic casting serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, integrates mounting points for track supporting devices, and incorporates recesses for debris removal. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, addressing both cost and complexity issues.
2Device complexity
If monolithic casting is used for track sub-frames, then production cost and assembly complexity are reduced, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the manufacturing parameter from assembly-based construction to monolithic casting. This parameter change consolidates multiple precision requirements into a single casting process, where precision is achieved through controlled casting rather than cumulative assembly tolerances.
Solution Approach 2:
The monolithic casting is prepared in advance with all necessary recesses, mounting points, and structural features integrated during the casting process itself. This preliminary action eliminates the need for subsequent assembly operations, reducing assembly complexity while managing precision requirements through the casting process.
3Strength
If conventional fabricated structures with fasteners are used, then ease of disassembly is improved, but structural strength decreases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging all sub-frame components into a single monolithic casting, the patent eliminates fasteners and joints that would compromise structural strength. The unified structure provides continuous material flow and inherent strength without relying on mechanical fastening elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent prioritizes structural strength over disassembly ease, accepting that the monolithic casting is a permanent structure. This approach is appropriate for track sub-frames where strength and durability are more critical than repeated disassembly and reassembly operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A working machine having a main frame structure which includes a pair of endless tracks. Each track is entrained about track supporting devices mounted by a track sub-frame. The sub-frame includes inner and outer members interconnected by cross members. The inner and outer members are arranged side by side. At least one upper track support device is mounted between the inner and outer members at or adjacent upper edges thereof. At least one lower track supporting device is mounted to extend between the inner and outer members at or adjacent lower edges thereof. The inner and outer members and cross members of at least one of the track sub-frames is provided by a monolithic casting.