Track Link Joint Radial Seal to Prevent Axial Seal Failure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing track link joint sealing systems in heavy machinery, such as earth-moving equipment, face issues with seal failure due to axial loads, leading to lubricant leakage and component wear, as axial seals are prone to compression and deformation under the movement of bushings and pins.
Innovation Solution
A radial seal system is implemented, where a seal is disposed between the outer surface of a bushing and the inner radial surface of a counterbore in a track link joint, reducing compressive forces and ensuring the seal remains effective during rotation, thereby preventing lubricant leakage and material ingress.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If axial seals are used between the bushing and track link, then lubricant sealing is achieved, but the seals become compressed and fail due to axial load
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the seal orientation from axial to radial. Instead of placing seals at the axial ends of the bushing where they would be compressed by axial loads, the seals are positioned radially between the outer surface of the bushing and the inner surface of the counterbore. This inversion allows the seals to function without being subjected to compressive forces from bushing movement, thereby maintaining seal integrity and preventing lubricant leakage.
2Reliability
If axial seals are used to seal lubricant, then lubricant retention is improved, but material can still enter the joint space causing wear
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions the sealing approach from one dimension (axial sealing at the ends of the bushing) to another dimension (radial sealing around the circumference of the bushing). This dimensional change creates a more effective barrier against material ingress, as the radial seals positioned around the entire circumference of the bushing provide comprehensive protection against contaminants entering the joint space, while also maintaining lubricant retention.
Data Source
AI summary
In some implementations, a bushing may include a cylindrical body having an at least partially annular configuration. The cylindrical body may define a radial axis and may include an inner circumferential surface, an outer circumferential surface, a first end, and a second end. The inner circumferential surface may be configured to rotatably receive an outer surface of a pin of a track link joint. The outer circumferential surface may be configured to be rotatably received within a first counterbore of a first track link of the track link joint. The bushing may include at least one groove extending radially into the outer circumferential surface around the radial axis. The at least one groove may be configured to receive a first seal of the track link joint. The first seal may form a first radial seal between the outer circumferential surface and a first inner surface of the first counterbore.