Track tensioning system for a tracked vehicle
US7866420B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 19, 2009 |
| Grant date | Jan 11, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 27, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB62D55/30
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A tensioning system for an endless track of a crawler-type vehicle includes an actuator, such as a dual-acting hydraulic cylinder and piston, which is coupled to a roller to translate the roller into and out of engagement with the endless track to tension or slack the endless track, respectively. The tensioning system has a mechanical stop that limits retraction of the actuator, and thus limits how much slack can be created in the endless track. The actuator automatically adds tension to the endless track when an undertensioned condition is present and automatically removes tension from the endless track when an overtensioned condition is present. To add additional slack to the endless track for removing the endless track for service, repair, or replacement, the mechanical stop may be removed which allows additional retraction of the actuator and thus disengagement of the roller from the endless track.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.