Apparatus and method for operating track tensioning assembly of a hydraulic excavator
US6249994A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 16, 1999 |
| Grant date | Jun 26, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 16, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB62D55/30
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method of operating a work machine having (i) a hydraulic drive system for driving a drive track chain, (ii) a track tensioning assembly for adjusting tension on the drive track chain, (iii) a hydraulic work implement for performing a work function, and (iv) a fluid supply circuit for providing pressurized hydraulic fluid to both the hydraulic drive system and the hydraulic work implement includes the step of advancing the pressurized hydraulic fluid from the fluid supply circuit to the work implement when the work machine is being operated in a work mode of operation. The method also includes the step of diverting the pressurized hydraulic fluid from the work implement to the drive system when the work machine is being operated in a travel mode of operation. The method further includes the step of detecting a fluid pressure increase within the drive system in response to diversion of the pressurized hydraulic fluid from the work implement to the drive system. Moreover, the method includes the step of operating the track tensioning assembly so as to decrease tension on the track chain in response to detection of the fluid pressure increase. A work machine is also disclosed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.