Omniwheel Track Segmentation for Low-Height Heavy-Load Mobility
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Solution Overview
Problem
The development of full range track systems has lagged behind non-full range track systems, leading to inefficiencies and increased space requirements, particularly in applications requiring precise positioning and adaptability in small spaces.
Innovation Solution
An omniwheel track system comprising a frame with an endless drive mechanism and segment assemblies, each with load wheels mounted at an angle, allowing omnidirectional movement and load distribution through horizontal and vertical idling wheels supported by the frame, reducing the system's height and enhancing load capacity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If non-full range track systems are used, then the system structure is simpler and easier to manufacture, but the system requires increased space and lacks adaptability in confined areas
Solution Approach 1:
The track system is divided into multiple segment assemblies (first, second, third, and fourth segment assemblies) that can independently articulate and rotate. Each segment contains load wheels that can be positioned at different angles, allowing the system to adapt to confined spaces while maintaining structural simplicity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The segment assemblies are designed with dynamic characteristics, allowing them to rotate and articulate relative to each other. The load wheels within each segment can be positioned at different angles (e.g., 45 degrees) and the segments can rotate about vertical axes, enabling the system to dynamically adapt to various spatial constraints and movement requirements
2Measurement precision
If full range track systems are developed, then the system offers precise positioning and high adaptability, but the development has lagged and the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into modular assemblies with standardized interfaces. Each segment assembly contains load wheels, idling wheels, and drive mechanism components that can be independently manufactured and assembled, reducing overall system complexity while enabling precise positioning through coordinated segment movement
Solution Approach 2:
The segment assemblies are designed with universal characteristics, where each segment can perform multiple functions (supporting load, providing articulation, enabling rotation). The load wheels can be positioned at different angles and the segments can rotate about vertical axes, allowing a single modular design to handle various positioning and movement requirements
3Length of stationary object
If the endless track system height is reduced, then the system fits better in confined spaces, but the load capacity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The load distribution is shifted from a vertical configuration to a more distributed three-dimensional arrangement. Load wheels are positioned at different heights and angles within each segment assembly, with some wheels contacting the ground and others providing structural support. This dimensional redistribution allows reduced overall height while maintaining load capacity through spatial optimization
Data Source
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AI summary
An omniwheel track system comprising a frame comprising at least one supporting plate, an endless drive mechanism mounted to the frame, and a plurality of segment assemblies mounted to the frame and drivable by the endless drive mechanism, the plurality of segment assemblies forming an endless track rotatable about the frame, each segment assembly comprising a housing adapted to receive at least one load wheel, each load wheel mounted to a corresponding segment assembly and rotatable about an axis, each axis forming an angle with a side of the housing. There is also provided an omniwheel track system platform comprising a plurality of the omniwheel track systems described above arranged on a main frame such that the omniwheel track system platform is movable omnidirectionally.