Modular endless track drive system and methods of making, installing and repairing same
US4861120A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 14, 1987 |
| Grant date | Aug 29, 1989 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 14, 2007 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB62D55/253
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A modular endless track drive system for use on a track vehicle such as a bulldozer is made up of a number of polymeric drive modules interconnected with polymeric master links. Each drive module includes a plurality of drive members with lateral frictional drive faces for engagement with a drive wheel, each master link having similarly configured drive faces. The drive wheel is provided with drive surfaces shaped to match the shape of the lateral drive faces on the drive modules and master links and/or a sprocket for engaging with additional drive faces on the drive modules and master links. A drive module is made by molding a polymeric multiple drive member structure atop a plurality of base portions, encasing one or more connecting members therein with their ends exposed. The master links are made in a similar fashion, but with upper and lower base portion parts for fastening the drive module connector members therebetween to form an endless track. The system is readily installed by assembling the necessary drive modules and all but one of the master links to form a track with two disconnected ends, laying the assembled track linearly across the ground, positioning a track vehic…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.