Track Assembly Rotation Limiter for Easier Suspension Arm Integration
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional rotation limiting devices for track assemblies on ATVs are difficult to connect to the frame due to the distance between the frame and suitable connection points, making installation challenging and costly.
Innovation Solution
A track assembly with a rotation limiting device connected between the frame and suspension arm, featuring an elongate support and biasing members, allowing for compact integration within the track assembly and easy attachment to the suspension arm.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the rotation limiting device is connected between the frame and the track assembly, then the rotation of the track assembly can be limited, but the distance between the frame and suitable connection points is too great making installation difficult and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a suspension arm as an intermediary component between the frame and the rotation limiting device. The rotation limiting device is connected to the suspension arm rather than directly to the frame, which serves as a mediating structure that is closer to the track assembly. This intermediary approach allows the rotation limiting function to be achieved while reducing the connection distance and simplifying installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the connection structure by separating the rotation limiting device from direct frame connection. The suspension arm is divided into an upper arm and a lower arm, creating modular segments that can be independently positioned and connected. This segmentation allows the rotation limiting device to be connected to the lower suspension arm which is closer to the track assembly, thereby reducing installation complexity.
2Ease of manufacture
If the rotation limiting device is positioned closer to the track assembly within the track assembly volume, then installation is simplified and manufacturing costs are reduced, but the device must fit within limited space
Solution Approach 1:
The rotation limiting device is nested within the volume defined by the track assembly. The device is positioned inside the space enclosed by the track, utilizing the existing volume efficiently. This nesting approach allows the rotation limiting function to be integrated within the track assembly boundaries without requiring additional external space, thereby simplifying installation and reducing manufacturing costs.
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
Enables effective rotation limitation of the track assembly relative to the suspension arm, maintaining ground clearance and reducing manufacturing costs by integrating the device within the track assembly volume.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of biasing members (124, 126, 128, 130) supported by the elongate support (122)... the at least one front biasing member (124, 126) resisting rotation of the track assembly about the drive wheel axis in a first direction; and the at least one rear biasing member (128, 130) resisting rotation of the track assembly about the drive wheel axis in a second direction opposite the first direction
Data Source
AI summary
A track assembly for a vehicle is provided. The vehicle has a suspension arm for connecting the track assembly to the vehicle. The track assembly includes a frame, a plurality of track-contacting wheels, and an endless track disposed around the track-contacting wheels. The track-contacting wheels include: a drive wheel rotationally connected to the frame and at least one idler wheel rotationally connected to the frame. The drive wheel defines a drive wheel axis about which the drive wheel is rotatable. The drive wheel is adapted for driving the endless track. The track assembly also includes a rotation limiting device for limiting rotation of the track assembly relative to the suspension arm of the vehicle. The rotation limiting device is connected to the frame of the track assembly and is configured to be connected to the suspension arm of the vehicle.