Split Track Frame Suspension for Crawler Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional track chain suspension mechanisms in crawler vehicles are inadequate for machines that pull heavy loads, such as concrete path laying machines, as they fail to maintain a smooth and levelled operation on rough terrain due to long track frames that enhance vertical displacements and leverage forces on the drive shaft.
Innovation Solution
A track chain suspension mechanism with a split track frame configuration, where the first track frame is pivotally and slidably mounted to the vehicle, and the second track frame is connected to the drive shaft, allowing for better absorption of uneven terrain and reduced leverage forces by positioning the drive shaft low to the ground, with a single idler and recoil mechanism for tension maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a conventional long track frame is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but vertical displacements increase and stability deteriorates on rough terrain
Solution Approach 1:
The track frame is divided into two separate frames (first track frame and second track frame) connected by a pivot shaft. This segmentation allows each frame to independently respond to terrain variations, reducing vertical displacements and improving vehicle stability while maintaining structural simplicity through modular design
2Force
If the drive shaft is positioned high, then the leverage arm is longer providing better mechanical advantage, but lift forces on the vehicle increase and levelled operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The drive shaft is repositioned from a vertical orientation to a horizontal orientation below the idler rotation axis. This dimensional change moves the drive shaft closer to the ground, shortening the leverage arm and reducing lift forces on the vehicle while maintaining effective power transmission through the horizontal configuration
3Reliability
If multiple idlers and recoil mechanisms are used, then track chain tension is maintained effectively, but device complexity and number of components increase
Solution Approach 1:
The recoil mechanism is extracted and positioned specifically at the rear of the second track frame, where it can effectively maintain track chain tension through the recoil drum. This strategic placement eliminates the need for multiple distributed idlers and recoil mechanisms, reducing component count while maintaining reliable tension control
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
This configuration provides improved stability and reduced lift forces on the vehicle, allowing for smooth and levelled operation even on rough terrain, accommodating larger length adjustments and maintaining track chain tension with fewer idlers and recoil mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
a suspension shaft (7) pivotally and slidable mounted to the suspension frame
Implementation Method 2
pivotally and slidable mounted
Implementation Method 3
said first and second track frame pivotally connected to one another by means of a pivot shaft (9)
Implementation Method 4
the drive shaft (8) mounted to the drive frame... the drive shaft is mounted below the rotation axis of the Idlers when the track chain suspension mechanism is in level position
Implementation Method 5
the track chain of most commercial crawler vehicles is usually engaged on a pair of large longitudinally spaced wheels wherein the forward wheel is an idler and the rear wheel is toothed and constitutes the drive sprocket
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to crawler vehicles and more particular to track chain suspension mechanisms, which provide for a smooth and levelled operation of the vehicle. The track chain suspension mechanism of the present invention is characterized in having a first and a second track frame, the first frame being suspended to the vehicle by means of a suspension shaft pivotally and slidable mounted to a suspension frame, the second track frame pivotally connected to the vehicle by means of a drive shaft mounted to a drive frame and wherein said first and second track frame pivotally connected to one another by means of a pivot shaft. In its application for concrete path laying machines the track chain suspension mechanism is further characterized in comprising only one idler at the front of the first track frame.