Split Track Slider Assembly for Modular Undercarriage Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing slider arrangements for track-type undercarriages are piecemeal in design, leading to significant inventory costs and complex, frequent replacements, which increase machine downtime.
Innovation Solution
A split slider design with removably attached segments, including end sliders with varying radii of curvature and central sliders with linear upper surfaces, to support tracks and facilitate cohesive replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If sliders are designed piecemeal to address discrete concerns, then specific functional requirements are met, but inventory costs increase and replacement complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The slider is divided into multiple segments that can be independently replaced. Each segment is designed to be replaceable without replacing the entire slider assembly, reducing inventory requirements and simplifying maintenance operations while still addressing specific functional needs of different slider portions
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple segments are designed with standardized attachment mechanisms and compatible geometries, allowing them to serve universal functions across different positions in the slider arrangement. This universality reduces the number of unique parts needed in inventory while maintaining adaptability to various functional requirements
2Adaptability or versatility
If sliders have different designs and service lives, then specific operational needs are addressed, but machine downtime increases due to frequent replacements
Solution Approach 1:
The slider system transitions from static, fixed-design components to dynamic, replaceable segments. This allows the slider configuration to adapt over time as segments are replaced based on wear patterns, optimizing performance while reducing downtime through targeted rather than comprehensive replacements
Solution Approach 2:
Segments are designed with predetermined attachment mechanisms and standardized interfaces that allow for pre-planned replacements. The modular design enables maintenance personnel to quickly identify and replace worn segments without complex disassembly, reducing machine downtime through efficient maintenance operations
3Strength
If sliders are designed as single cohesive units, then structural integrity is maintained, but inventory costs increase and replacement frequency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The slider is segmented into multiple replaceable portions while maintaining structural integrity through robust attachment mechanisms. This segmentation allows the system to use fewer unique slider designs in inventory, as worn segments can be replaced rather than requiring complete slider replacement, thereby reducing inventory costs while preserving overall structural strength
Solution Approach 2:
Individual slider segments are designed to be discarded when worn and replaced with new or refurbished segments. This approach recovers the value of non-worn segments that remain in service, reducing the need to maintain large inventories of complete slider assemblies while maintaining structural integrity through systematic segment replacement
Data Source
AI summary
A slider includes a first segment and a second segment. The first segment includes a first upper surface, a first lower surface, and a first interior surface that connects the first upper surface to the first lower surface. The first upper surface is configured to support a track. The first interior surface includes a first component of an attachment mechanism. The second segment includes a second upper surface, a second lower surface, and a second interior surface that connects the second upper surface to the second lower surface. The second upper surface is configured to support the track. The second interior surface includes a second component of the attachment mechanism that is configured to be removably attached to the first component.