Sensorized Track Assembly for Dynamic Load Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional track systems for vehicles face challenges in accurately measuring or estimating load distribution under dynamic conditions, leading to uneven ground contact and premature wear, as well as soil compaction issues due to uneven load distribution across the ground engaging segment.
Innovation Solution
A track system with a multi-pivot assembly, actuator, and monitoring sensors, including strain gauges, load cells, and accelerometers, to monitor load, vibration, and temperature parameters, allowing for dynamic adjustment of the frame assembly to evenly distribute load and conform to the ground surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional track systems are used, then vehicle mobility on soft ground is improved, but uneven load distribution causes soil compaction and premature wear
Solution Approach 1:
The track system employs active camber and toe-in/toe-out angle adjustment mechanisms that dynamically modify track geometry in real-time. This allows the track to adapt its configuration to varying ground conditions, ensuring even load distribution across the ground-contacting segment while maintaining mobility on soft surfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes geometric parameters (camber angle and toe-in/toe-out angle) of the track to optimize performance. By adjusting these parameters based on ground conditions and vehicle operation state, the system achieves uniform load distribution that prevents soil compaction and reduces component wear.
2Device complexity
If fixed track geometry is used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but inability to conform to varying ground surfaces causes uneven load distribution
Solution Approach 1:
The track system transitions from fixed geometry to dynamic geometry through active adjustment mechanisms. Camber and toe-in/toe-out angles are continuously modified to match ground surface variations, enabling the track to conform to uneven terrain while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors and control mechanisms that monitor ground conditions and vehicle state, using this feedback to automatically adjust track geometry. This closed-loop control enables the track to adapt to varying ground surfaces without requiring complex manual intervention.
3Ease of manufacture
If static track configuration is used, then manufacturing and setup are simplified, but load distribution varies under dynamic conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The track system incorporates active adjustment mechanisms that modify camber and toe-in/toe-out angles in real-time based on vehicle operation and ground conditions. This dynamic capability ensures consistent load distribution across the track while maintaining relatively simple manufacturing processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes geometric parameters during operation to maintain optimal load distribution. By adjusting camber and toe-in/toe-out angles in response to dynamic conditions, the system achieves reliable and consistent load distribution without requiring complex manufacturing.
Data Source
AI summary
A track system includes an attachment assembly, a frame assembly connected to the attachment assembly including at least one wheel-bearing frame member. The track system further has leading and trailing idler wheel assemblies at least indirectly connected to the at least one wheel-bearing frame member, at least one support wheel assembly at least indirectly connected to the at least one wheel-bearing frame member, an endless track extending around the leading idler wheel assembly, the trailing idler wheel assembly, and the at least one support wheel assembly. At least one monitoring sensor connected to the endless track and including an array of sensing devices communicates with a track system controller for determining, at least indirectly, at least one of a state of the track system and a ground surface condition.