Reconfigurable wheel-track assembly with half-moon configuration
US12195112B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 29, 2020 |
| Grant date | Jan 14, 2025 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 21, 2041 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB62D55/30
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The Reconfigurable Wheel-Track (RWT) is a novel mechanism that allows a wheel to transform into a track, and vice-versa. The wheel permits a vehicle to travel quickly over smooth and semi-rough terrain, then, on-the-fly, transform rapidly into a powered track for crossing extreme terrain. The reconfigurable wheel-track consists of several main components: an outer tire/tread, drive mechanisms for the wheel and track, support mechanisms for the outer tread when in either wheel mode or track mode, and a reconfiguration mechanism that facilitates the transformation from a wheel to a track and vice-versa. The reconfigurable wheel-track includes sensing, actuation, and controls to facilitate efficient and effective transition from wheel to track and vice-versa, and securely maintain each shape.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.