Track Vehicle Suspension Idler Weight Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current suspension systems for track vehicles fail to effectively manage weight distribution during normal and dynamic loading conditions, leading to instability and potential damage under heavy or sudden loads.
Innovation Solution
A suspension system comprising resilient modules with stop blocks and biasing assemblies that transfer weight to the ground through a track, allowing idlers to support weight during specific conditions, thereby rigidifying the suspension and stabilizing the vehicle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the suspension system uses resilient modules to support the entire vehicle weight under normal loads, then the vehicle achieves smooth ride and ground contact, but the suspension becomes too flexible and unstable during dynamic loading conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension system dynamically transitions between flexible and rigid states based on loading conditions. Under normal loads, the resilient modules provide flexibility for smooth operation. Under dynamic loads, the system rigidifies by transferring weight to the idler, maintaining stability. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction between ride smoothness and suspension stability.
2Reliability
If the suspension system remains flexible under all conditions, then the vehicle maintains ground contact, but the system cannot withstand sudden dynamic loads without potential damage
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension system adapts its stiffness dynamically. Under normal conditions, it remains flexible to maintain ground contact. Under sudden dynamic loads, it rigidifies through idler engagement to prevent damage. This dynamic behavior resolves the contradiction between ground contact reliability and damage resistance.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the system rigidifies the suspension during dynamic conditions by having the idler bear weight, then the vehicle gains stability, but the smooth ride characteristic is lost during those conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system accepts temporary loss of ride smoothness during dynamic conditions as necessary to gain stability. The resilient modules return to flexible operation once dynamic loads subside, restoring ride quality. This dynamic transition resolves the contradiction between vehicle stability and ride smoothness.
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 system maintains constant contact with the ground, supports the entire vehicle weight under normal loads, and rigidifies the suspension during dynamic conditions, enhancing stability and preventing damage from sudden loads.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing assembly between the roller and the frame to bias the roller against the track
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of suspension modules resiliently interconnected between the frame and track
Data Source
AI summary
A suspension system for a track vehicle, the suspension system comprising: a frame; a track surrounding the frame; a plurality of suspension modules resiliently interconnected between the frame and track to bias the track into engagement with a ground surface upon which the track vehicle sits; and at least one idler over which the track extends. Under a normal load, all weight of the track vehicle is borne by the suspension modules and not by the at least one idler. Under selected conditions the at least one idler bears at least some weight of the track vehicle to rigidify the track vehicle suspension during such selected conditions.