Terrain-Adaptive Track Assemblies with Interchangeable Flotation Bars
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Solution Overview
Problem
Forestry machines require two sets of tracks for different terrain conditions, which is financially burdensome and time-consuming to maintain due to wear concentrated on ears and chain links, necessitating laborious and expensive repairs.
Innovation Solution
A track assembly with traction bars, flotation bars, and locking pins that allow for interchangeable accessories to adjust traction and flotation properties, and a modular design for easy maintenance and repair.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If tracks are designed for good flotation in marshy or snowy conditions, then flotation ability is improved, but gripping properties deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The track assembly allows dynamic configuration by adding or removing flotation bars between traction bars based on terrain conditions. The flotation bars can be attached using locking pins that engage with locking holes in the traction bars, enabling the track to adapt its characteristics from traction-optimized to flotation-optimized configuration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If two sets of tracks are used for varying terrain conditions, then adaptability to different terrains is improved, but financial cost deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The track assembly serves multiple functions through a single base configuration. The flotation bars can be added to the same track assembly for both marshy/snowy conditions and dry conditions, eliminating the need for separate track sets. This universal design allows one track assembly to perform both traction and flotation functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The track configuration is dynamically adjustable by adding or removing flotation bars based on terrain requirements. This dynamic modification enables a single track assembly to adapt to varying terrain conditions rather than requiring multiple fixed-configuration track sets.
3Strength
If wear is concentrated on ears and chain links, then structural integrity is improved, but ease of repair deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The track assembly is segmented into modular components: traction bars, flotation bars, locking pins, and chain links. This segmentation allows individual components to be replaced independently without affecting the entire track structure, significantly simplifying repair operations while maintaining structural integrity through standardized connection points.
Solution Approach 2:
The design enables easy discarding of worn components (ears, chain links, locking pins) and recovery/replacement with new parts. The standardized holes and locking mechanisms allow quick removal of worn elements and installation of replacement components without complex tooling or procedures.
4Strength
If repair involves cutting and welding, then structural integrity is improved, but time consumption deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The modular segmented design allows repair through simple component replacement rather than cutting and welding. Locking pins can be removed and replaced with basic hand tools, eliminating the need for welding equipment and procedures, thus dramatically reducing repair time while maintaining structural integrity through standardized reconnection.
Data Source
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AI summary
According to an example aspect of the present invention, there is provided a track assembly for a terrain going vehicle having tires, the track assembly comprising at least two traction bars. The traction bars each have a body that is dimensioned to extend over the width of a tire and guide plates extending from the body so that they can be set to reach over the edge of the tire and to the sides of the tires and ears at each end of each traction bar, extending crosswise on relation to the length of the traction bar and on both sides of the body of the traction bar, the ears having each at least one hole. There is at least one link having a link body with a length and one connecting hole at each opposite end of the link body, and pins set to run through a pair of one hole of the link body and at least one hole of a ear of the traction bar in order to form a chain, wherein the pins are locked in relation to the holes of the ears so that rotation of the pins in the holes is prevented.