Multi-Surface Slider Wheel for Debris-Resistant Track Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Track carrier rollers in track type machines, such as dozers and excavators, are prone to dirt and debris accumulation, leading to uneven wear and increased maintenance costs due to frequent replacements, while traditional sliders have short work lives and require unique mounting mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A slider wheel with multiple arc-shaped slider surfaces and pin holes for secure positioning, allowing easy adjustment and replacement, reducing wear by utilizing multiple wear surfaces and minimizing debris accumulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If carrier rollers are used to support tracks, then track support function is provided, but dirt and debris accumulate on the rollers causing them to get stuck and requiring frequent replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by using sliders instead of rollers. Sliders are simpler components without rotating parts that can get stuck due to debris accumulation. They are designed to be more durable and reliable, reducing the frequency of replacement despite being simpler in construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the rotating mechanical system of carrier rollers with a sliding mechanical system. This substitution eliminates the rotation mechanism that is prone to getting stuck, thereby improving reliability and extending service life in dirty environments.
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional sliders are used instead of rollers, then cost is reduced and maintenance is reduced, but work life is relatively short due to single slider surface wear
Solution Approach 1:
The slider is divided into multiple segments or surfaces (first slider surface, second slider surface, third slider surface) arranged around its perimeter. This segmentation allows the slider to have multiple wear surfaces, so when one surface becomes worn, the slider can be repositioned to use another surface, thereby extending the overall service life.
Solution Approach 2:
The slider is designed to be rotatable or adjustable on the carrier stand, allowing dynamic repositioning of the wear surfaces. This dynamic capability enables the slider to adapt to wear patterns by bringing fresh surfaces into contact with the track, extending its operational life.
3Reliability
If sliders with unique mounting mechanisms are used, then track support function is provided, but mounting complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The slider is designed with a universal mounting mechanism that can accommodate multiple slider orientations and positions. The carrier stand with pin receptacle and the slider with corresponding pin feature provide a standardized interface that simplifies installation and adjustment, making the mounting process less complex while maintaining reliability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The slider wheel provides extended service life by distributing wear across multiple surfaces, reducing maintenance downtime and costs, and maintaining efficient track support without specialized mounting mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of pin holes in at least one of the first side surface and the second side surface, the plurality of pin holes configured to secure the slider wheel in position
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of distinct, arc-shaped slider surfaces, the plurality of slider surfaces forming a non-circular sliding circumferential surface
Data Source
AI summary
A slider wheel for a track support assembly may include a first side surface, a second side surface, and a plurality of distinct, arc-shaped slider surfaces, the plurality of slider surfaces forming a non-circular sliding circumferential surface located between the first side surface and the second side surface. The slider wheel may also include a plurality of pin holes in at least one of the first side surface and the second side surface, the plurality of pin holes being configured to secure the slider wheel in position.