Track Pin Retention via Sequential Orbital Swaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing track pin retention systems for mobile machines require high-force presses and tools, leading to short tool and press lifespan and high maintenance costs due to cyclic application of high forces, as seen in U.S. Pat. No. 6,280,173, which uses plastic deformation to form intermittent projections between track links and pins.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a swaging tool that applies force to specific areas of a track link's boss to plastically deform material, forming connections between the track pin and links, allowing for the formation of multiple connections without the need for high-force presses, by aligning the track pin with the boss's channels to create interference fits and additional connections through orbital swaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If high-force presses are used to plastically deform track links and form connections, then connection strength is improved, but tool and press lifespan deteriorates due to cyclic application of high forces
Solution Approach 1:
The connection formation process is segmented into multiple sequential deformation locations around the track pin rather than simultaneous deformation at all locations. The tool plastically deforms the track link material at one location, forms a connection, then moves to the next location. This segmentation reduces the peak force requirements on the press while maintaining connection strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool applies plastic deformation forces periodically at discrete locations around the track pin in a sequential manner. Instead of applying high force simultaneously at multiple locations, the force application is periodic - deforming at location 1, completing connection, moving to location 2, and so on. This periodic action reduces cyclic stress on the press and extends its lifespan.
2Reliability
If high-force presses are used to form connections, then connection durability is improved, but maintenance cost increases due to frequent press and tool replacement
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the deformation process into sequential steps at different locations, the peak force requirement on the press is reduced. This allows using a lower-capacity press that is less expensive and requires less frequent maintenance, while still achieving durable connections through the cumulative effect of multiple deformation locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool applies plastic deformation partially at each location rather than attempting to form all connections simultaneously with excessive force. Each location receives sufficient deformation to create a durable connection, but the force is applied sequentially rather than all at once, reducing overall system stress and maintenance requirements.
3Productivity
If simultaneous deformation at multiple locations is used, then production time is reduced, but force requirement and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The deformation process is segmented into sequential operations at multiple locations around the track pin. While not simultaneous, the segmented approach allows efficient production by quickly moving between locations, maintaining reasonable productivity while dramatically reducing the peak force requirement on the press.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool is designed to dynamically move between deformation locations during the connection formation process. This dynamic positioning allows the system to maintain high productivity by minimizing non-productive move time while using a press with lower force capacity, as the force is applied sequentially rather than simultaneously at all locations.
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 approach extends the lifespan of the press and tool, reduces maintenance costs, and provides durable connections between track pins and links, enhancing the reliability of track assemblies by distributing force application more efficiently.
Implementation Method 1
A force may be applied to a tool positioned in a first position to plastically deform a first portion of the first track link which surrounds the first through hole, to thereby form a first connection between the track pin and the first track link
Implementation Method 2
A track pin may be disposed within the through holes such that an interference fit is achieved between the pin and the through hole in the first track link
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure may provide a method of forming a track assembly. In the method, a track pin may be disposed within a first through hole of a first track link and within a second through hole of a second track link. A force may be applied to a tool positioned in a first position to plastically deform a first portion of the first track link which surrounds the first through hole, to thereby form a first connection between the track pin and the first track link. A force may be applied to the tool positioned in a second position to plastically deform a second portion of the first track link which surrounds the first through hole, to thereby form a second connection between the track pin and the first track link. The second connection may be formed after the first connection.