Track over tire system and method
US8764129B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 27, 2011 |
| Grant date | Jul 1, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 27, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB62D55/04
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A system and method of increasing the traction and mobility of a tandem axled vehicle by disposing an endless track 16 around the vehicle tires 18,20 and using a tensioning device 22 to impart a force on the endless track 16 to maintain an optimal track tension. The tensioning device 22 may impart a constant force, a force within a set range, or a variable force controlled by a processor 64 on the endless track 16. The processor 64 monitors vehicle parameters to determine if endless track slipping is occurring. The slip-control processor 64 sends signals to the tension device 22 to increase endless track tension when a track slip condition is sensed, and sends signals to decrease endless track tension when slipping is not occurring, thereby allowing for greater suspension movement and improving overall vehicle mobility.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.