Rolled Track Link Structure for Simpler Track Link Manufacturing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The manufacturing of track links for track assemblies is complex and costly due to the need for forming complex three-dimensional shapes, often requiring additional steps like bending or welding.
Innovation Solution
A rolled track link design featuring a central portion with offset front and back portions, allowing for a uniform thickness along the width and reducing the complexity of the manufacturing process by eliminating the need for bending or welding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If track links are forged into complex three-dimensional shapes or formed by multiple welded pieces, then the structural integrity and coupling strength are improved, but the manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The track link is divided into distinct functional portions (front portion with pin bore, back portion with bushing bore, central portion) that can be manufactured separately and then connected through welding. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized for its specific function while simplifying the overall manufacturing process compared to forging the entire complex shape in one piece.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple track link portions are merged through welding to form the complete track link assembly. This combining approach achieves the structural integrity and coupling strength of a complex forged piece while using simpler, more cost-effective manufacturing processes for each individual portion.
2Strength
If track links are forged into complex three-dimensional shapes, then the structural integrity is improved, but the manufacturing time and material usage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The track link is segmented into multiple portions that can be manufactured simultaneously or in parallel using simpler processes. This reduces the total manufacturing time compared to forging the entire complex shape in one lengthy process, while still achieving the required structural integrity through proper welding of the segments.
3Ease of manufacture
If track links are formed by multiple welded pieces, then the manufacturing flexibility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The standardized portions (front portion with pin bore, back portion with bushing bore, central portion) can be used in multiple track link configurations and applications. This universality reduces manufacturing flexibility needs for different designs while the consistent welding protocol simplifies the assembly process, offsetting the apparent complexity.
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 rolled track link design simplifies the manufacturing process, reduces material usage, and lowers production costs while maintaining the necessary structural integrity for track assemblies.
Implementation Method 1
rolling a sheet of a material lengthwise to form a cross-sectional shape having a central portion, a front portion on a front side of the central portion that is defined by a front portion plane, and a back portion on a back side of the central portion that is defined by a back portion plane that is offset from the front portion plane by a perpendicular distance along the height of the sheet of material
Data Source
AI summary
A rolled track link may comprise a central portion, a front portion, on a front side of the central portion, having a front portion planar upper surface and a pin bore, and a back portion, on a back side of the central portion, having a back portion planar upper surface that is offset from the front portion planar upper surface by a perpendicular distance along a height of the track link, and having a bushing bore. At each point along a length of the track link, a thickness of the track link is uniform along a width of the track link, other than at holes, including the pin bore and the bushing bore.