Multi-Pivot Track Assembly for Even Load Distribution on Soft Ground
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional track systems for vehicles, especially agricultural and construction vehicles, face issues with soil compaction and premature wear due to uneven load distribution and inability to conform to ground surfaces, leading to traction problems and equipment damage.
Innovation Solution
A track system with a multi-pivot assembly and actuator system that allows for dynamic adjustment of the frame assembly's position relative to the vehicle chassis, enabling even load distribution and improved traction by pivoting about roll, pitch, and yaw axes, and featuring a tensioner and idler actuators to optimize ground contact and reduce compaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional track systems are used, then vehicles can operate on soft and slippery ground surfaces, but uneven load distribution occurs across the ground contacting segment of the endless track
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic load distribution mechanism where the endless track system can actively adjust its configuration to conform to ground contours. The track includes movable segments and adjustment mechanisms that allow real-time redistribution of load across the ground-contacting portion, transforming a static rigid structure into a dynamic adaptive system that maintains uniform pressure distribution on soft surfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes physical parameters of the track structure, specifically the angle and position of track segments relative to the ground surface. By adjusting the orientation and curvature of the endless track through controlled mechanisms, the system optimizes contact pressure distribution across varying terrain, ensuring even load transfer while maintaining operational capability on soft ground.
2Force
If conventional track systems are used, then traction is improved on soft ground, but high pressure spots cause undesirable soil compaction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating non-uniform pressure distribution in a controlled manner across different segments of the track. Specific portions of the endless track are designed to concentrate or distribute pressure locally based on ground conditions, allowing high traction force where needed while minimizing compaction in sensitive areas through reduced pressure zones.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts pressure distribution across the ground-contacting track segments in real-time. By continuously modifying the orientation and position of track sections, the system maintains optimal traction force while preventing excessive localized pressure that would cause soil compaction, adapting to changing terrain conditions.
3Area of stationary object
If conventional track systems are used, then vehicle weight is distributed over larger area, but premature wear of track components occurs due to uneven load distribution
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic load balancing mechanisms that actively adjust the distribution of vehicle weight across all track components. The system uses controlled movement of track segments and tensioning mechanisms to ensure uniform load sharing among rollers, idlers, and the endless track itself, preventing premature wear by eliminating concentrated stress points while maintaining large ground contact area.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor load distribution across track components and automatically adjust track tension and segment positioning. This closed-loop control ensures even wear distribution by detecting and correcting imbalances in real-time, extending component service life while maintaining the beneficial large contact area for weight distribution.
4Strength
If conventional track systems are used, then endless track contacts ground for support, but structural components cannot allow the track to conform to ground surface like a pneumatic tire
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a hybrid system that combines the structural strength of rigid track components with the conformability of flexible elements. The endless track system includes adjustable segments and suspension mechanisms that allow the structure to dynamically adapt its shape to ground contours while maintaining load-bearing capacity, achieving both strength and conformability that pneumatic tires provide naturally.
Solution Approach 2:
The track system is divided into multiple adjustable segments rather than a single rigid structure. Each segment can independently adjust its position and orientation to conform to local ground variations, while the collective segments maintain overall structural integrity and support capability through their interconnected design.
Data Source
AI summary
A track system for use with a vehicle includes an attachment assembly connectable to the chassis of the vehicle having a multi-pivot assembly having a first pivot extending longitudinally and defining a roll pivot axis, and a second pivot extending laterally and defining a pitch pivot axis. A frame assembly is disposed laterally outwardly from the attachment assembly and connected thereto. The frame assembly includes at least one wheel-bearing frame member. The track system further includes at least one actuator connected between the attachment assembly and the frame assembly for pivoting the frame assembly about the roll pivot axis, a leading idler wheel assembly, a trailing idler wheel assembly, at least one support wheel assembly, and an endless track.