Abstract: An endless track assembly that mounts to a vehicle drive linkage and is operative to vary the track geometry or profile and terrain contact surface to differing terrains. The track assembly includes controlled idler wheel rocker arm suspensions for pivoting associated idler wheels at an assembly framework. In one assembly, a wheel and tire are supported to a track drive sprocket. The shape of the track assembly can be transformed to alternately engage and disengage the track or wheel with the terrain. In other constructions, the geometry of the track can be varied between triangular and circular shapes. The assemblies include pivotally controlled idler wheel suspensions that cooperate with a drive sprocket supported expansible member to transform the track profile.

Abstract: Disclosed embodiments include power machines, track frame assemblies, and apparatus for mounting a track frame assembly to a frame of a power machine. In various disclosed embodiments, mounting structures mount a track frame to the machine frame. In some exemplary embodiments, each mounting structure includes two torsional joints and at least three non-torsional joints between the machine frame and the corresponding track frame. The two torsional joints can be provided by torsion shafts and the corresponding attachments to front and rear arms. In exemplary embodiments, the at least three non-torsional joints are substantially free to rotate and can include a joint between a front axle and the track frame, a joint between a rear axle and a link, and a joint between a link pin and the track frame. In some exemplary embodiments, the front or rear arms are oriented relative to corresponding torsion shafts to improve performance.

Abstract: A track assembly for providing traction to an off-road vehicle, such as an agricultural vehicle, a construction vehicle, or another work vehicle, in which the track assembly may comprise a suspension between a frame of the track assembly and a bogie carrying roller wheels of the track assembly.

Abstract: An endless track assembly that mounts to a vehicle drive linkage and is operative to vary the track geometry or profile and terrain contact surface to differing terrains. The track assembly includes controlled idler wheel rocker arm suspensions for pivoting associated idler wheels at an assembly framework. In one assembly, a wheel and tire are supported to a track drive sprocket. The shape of the track assembly can be transformed to alternately engage and disengage the track or wheel with the terrain. In other constructions, the geometry of the track can be varied between triangular and circular shapes. The assemblies include pivotally controlled idler wheel suspensions that cooperate with a drive sprocket supported bladder, offset pie-shaped telescoping plates, and a collapsible membrane or tire to transform the track profile.

Abstract: A continuously variable transmission (CVT), a transmission control system, and a method is provided. The control system is configured to determine a measured wheel speed of two driven wheels and a first driving wheel, calculate a first driving wheel expected speed based on the driven wheel measured speeds, a track width, and a wheel base, and calculate an actual wheel speed difference between the first driving wheel measured speed and the additional wheel measured speed. The additional wheel can be either of the driven wheels or a second driving wheel. The control system is also configured to calculate a theoretical wheel speed difference between the first driving wheel expected speed and the additional wheel measured speed, calculate a zeroed-out wheel slip based on the difference between the actual wheel speed difference and the theoretical wheel speed difference, and determine whether the zeroed-out wheel slip exceeds a predetermined threshold.

Abstract: One embodiment provides a method for identifying a target object of a pipe wall, including: positioning a pipe inspection robot within a pipe; emitting, using a terahertz (THz) beam source of the pipe inspection robot, a laser beam towards a target object; receiving, using a THz receiver of the pipe inspection robot, THz data related to the target object; analyzing, using a processor, the THz data; and determining, based on the analyzing, an identity of the object. Other aspects are described and claimed.

Abstract: Provided is a track drive for outdoor power equipment including a support frame and a drive axle configured to attach to an associated drive hub. A hub bearing is mounted on the drive axle and the support frame enabling the drive axle to rotate relative to the support frame. A drive sprocket is attached to the drive axle and includes an interior half sprocket and an exterior half sprocket. The half sprockets are located on either side of the support frame. Drive teeth are spaced radially about the drive sprocket. The drive sprocket is movably engaged with an endless track to transmit force to rotate the endless track and propel the outdoor power equipment. A kit for adding or replacing a track drive of outdoor power equipment is also provided.

Abstract: A robotic snake comprising a plurality of friction anchors, a plurality of segments and a plurality of servo motors are disclosed. Each of the plurality of segments includes a first link and a second link connected at a first joint, a third link connected to the first link at a second joint, a fourth link connected to the second link at a third joint, a fifth link connected to the third link at a fourth joint. The simultaneous rotation of third link and fourth link of each of the plurality of segments results in a translational movement and/or a rotational movement. A plurality of servo motors is configured to rotate plurality of joints. The fifth link of one segment and first link of next segment of the each of the plurality of segments act as a quaternary link serially connects each of the plurality of segments.

Abstract: A track system for steerable vehicles having at least one axle. The track system is capable of adjusting to changes in terrain by pivoting in clockwise and counterclockwise directions relative to an axle assembly as the vehicle moves across the ground. The pivotal movement of the track system relative to the axle assembly is restricted by a limiter attached to an inboard member of the track system frame. Pivotal movement is limited by the axle assembly housing engaging the limiter when the track system pivots in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction to a maximum point along a pivot arc.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for connecting a drive wheel axle and a track roller frame in a tracked vehicle. The apparatus includes an arm portion for attachment to the track roller frame; a yoke comprising a pivotal connection to the arm portion about a first pivot axis; a bearing housing comprising a pivotal connection to the yoke about a second pivot axis; a bearing assembly disposed adjacent the bearing housing; and a collet separated from the bearing housing by the bearing assembly, wherein the collet is configured for affixation to the drive wheel axle. A method is disclosed for accommodating forces in a vehicle on a drive wheel axle transmitted through a track roller frame, the method including providing an apparatus connecting the drive wheel axle and the track roller frame. The method further includes pivoting portions of the apparatus relative to each other about first and second pivot axes.

Abstract: The invention relates to track systems 14, 14? that may be used to convert steerable, all-wheel drive construction equipment to steerable, multi-track construction vehicles 10. A preferred embodiment of the track system 14, 14? includes a frame 60, 182 having a reinforcing enclosure 150, 230, a plurality of track engaging rollers 82-86, 202-206, a sprocket 102, 214, and an endless track 76, 198 operatively connected to the frame 60, 182. Tension on the endless track 76, 198 is maintained with two tensioning members 170, 244 operatively connected to the forwardmost roller 82, 202. The track system 14, 14? preferably includes a limiting apparatus 300 that is configured to restrict the rotational movement “r” of the frame 60, 182 relative to a vehicle axle 16 to which it is attached. The limiting apparatus 300 has a first component 40, which is associated with the vehicle axle 16, is configured and arranged to interact with a second component 262, which is associated with the frame of the track system 14, 14?.

Abstract: The invention relates to track systems 14, 14? that may be used to convert steerable, all-wheel drive construction equipment to steerable, multi-track construction vehicles 10. A preferred embodiment of the track system 14, 14? includes a frame 60, 182 having a reinforcing enclosure 150, 230, a plurality of track engaging rollers 82-86, 202-206, a sprocket 102, 214, and an endless track 76, 198 operatively connected to the frame 60, 182. Tension on the endless track 76, 198 is maintained with two tensioning members 170, 244 operatively connected to the forwardmost roller 82, 202. The track system 14, 14? preferably includes a limiting apparatus 300 that is configured to restrict the rotational movement “r” of the frame 60, 182 relative to a vehicle axle 16 to which it is attached. The limiting apparatus 300 has a first component 40, which is associated with the vehicle axle 16, is configured and arranged to interact with a second component 262, which is associated with the frame of the track system 14, 14?.

Abstract: A method of estimating soil conditions of a work surface during operation of a track-type tractor measures current operating conditions and current operating state to develop adjustments to a nominal pull-slip curve. The adjusted pull-slip curve is used to calculate optimum performance in terms of an input variable such as track speed. Two factors are developed to reflect soil conditions, coefficient of traction and a shear modulus adjustment that affect different portions of the nominal pull slip curve.

Abstract: A chassis for a roof bolter includes a first plate positioned on a first side of the chassis and having a first mating surface, a second plate positioned opposite and substantially parallel to the first plate on a second side of the chassis and having a second mating surface substantially parallel to the first mating surface, and a plurality of openings positioned on the first plate and the second plate for receiving one or more fasteners, including wheel attachment openings for coupling the wheel assembly to at least one of the first plate or the second plate when the roof bolter is in a wheel configuration, and crawler attachment openings for coupling the crawler assembly to at least one of the first plate or the second plate when the roof bolter is in a crawler configuration.

Abstract: The present invention generally provides a wheel replacing traction assembly which uses, for propulsion, a longitudinally extending traction band disposed around and cooperating with a sprocket wheel, a supporting structure, and idler and/or road wheels. The supporting structure of the traction assembly comprises an independent suspension generally replacing the suspension of the vehicle. In use, the suspension of the vehicle is replaced by a rigid member that can be adjustable in length in a further embodiment. The presence of a suspension in the supporting structure of the traction assembly decreases its unsprung mass.

Abstract: A track assembly 30 for converting a wheeled vehicle 10 into a tracked vehicle. The track assembly 30 has a longitudinally adjustable support frame 40 having a motive source 170 with a drive sprocket 190, a plurality of support rollers 80, 84, 88, a tensioning assembly 90, and an endless track 200. The track assembly 30 is connected to a vehicle 10 by articulated, resiliently biased mounting assemblies 210, 410. Each mounting assembly 210, 410 includes a first attachment member 212, 412, a link 250, 450, and a second attachment member 300, 500, with the first attachment member 212, 412 configured to be removably attached to a position on a vehicle 10 where a wheel axle attached to an internal drive unit 19 would normally reside but which has been disconnected from its control lines and removed, and with the second attachment member 300, 500 configured to be connected to the support frame 40.

Abstract: To achieve a simplification and a weight saving of a support structure to a track frame and a travel machine body a working vehicle is provided with the travel machine body which mounts an engine thereon, the track frame which is arranged in a lower portion of the travel machine body, and a travel crawler which is installed to the track frame via a drive wheel body and driven wheel bodies. The track frame is structured such that a pair of steel plate bodies are detachably fastened by fastening members wide surfaces of the steel plate bodies being faced to each other.

Abstract: The invention relates to track systems 14, 14? that may be used to convert steerable, all-wheel drive construction equipment to steerable, multi-track construction vehicles 10. A preferred embodiment of the track system 14, 14? includes a frame 60, 182 having a reinforcing enclosure 150, 230, a plurality of track engaging rollers 82-86, 202-206, a sprocket 102, 214, and an endless track 76, 198 operatively connected to the frame 60, 182. Tension on the endless track 76, 198 is maintained with two tensioning members 170, 244 operatively connected to the forwardmost roller 82, 202. The track system 14, 14? preferably includes a limiting apparatus 300 that is configured to restrict the rotational movement “r” of the frame 60, 182 relative to a vehicle axle 16 to which it is attached. The limiting apparatus 300 has a first component 40, which is associated with the vehicle axle 16, is configured and arranged to interact with a second component 262, which is associated with the frame of the track system 14, 14?.

Abstract: The invention relates to a self-propelled, wheeled vehicle that may be converted into a multi-track self-propelled vehicle using one or more track assemblies. Each track assembly includes a carriage with a main frame that support forward and rearward idler wheels and a plurality of centrally located, inner bogey wheels, and an outrigger beam that supports a plurality of centrally located, outer bogey wheels. One of the idler wheels is movably connected to the main frame and is movable by an actuator. The carriage is removably connected to a spindle of a vehicle by an attachment assembly. The attachment assembly includes a first or lower section and a second or upper section that generally encircle a portion of the spindle housing, and which are connected thereto by a plurality of fastening elements. A sprocket is operatively connected to a wheel hub of the spindle either directly or indirectly by way of a spacer element.

Abstract: A track assembly 30 for converting a wheeled vehicle 10 into a tracked vehicle. The track assembly 30 has a longitudinally adjustable support frame 40 having a motive source 170 with a drive sprocket 190, a plurality of support rollers 80, 84, 88, a tensioning assembly 90, and an endless track 200. The track assembly 30 is connected to a vehicle 10 by articulated, resiliently biased mounting assemblies 210, 410. Each mounting assembly 210, 410 includes a first attachment member 212, 412, a link 250, 450, and a second attachment member 300, 500, with the first attachment member 212, 412 configured to be removably attached to a position on a vehicle 10 where a wheel axle attached to an internal drive unit 19 would normally reside but which has been disconnected from its control lines and removed, and with the second attachment member 300, 500 configured to be connected to the support frame 40.

Abstract: A track assembly for a mobile tower of an irrigation system includes a mounting bracket; a gearbox assembly and a rotatable drive wheel hub attached to the mounting bracket; a drive wheel attached to the drive wheel hub; a rotatable tension wheel hub attached to the mounting bracket and spaced from the drive wheel hub; a tension wheel attached to the tension wheel hub; a track belt trained over the drive wheel and the tension wheel and driven by the drive wheel to propel the mobile tower; and structure for pivotally mounting the mounting bracket to the mobile tower.

Abstract: A track assembly for a mobile tower of an irrigation system includes a mounting bracket; a gearbox assembly and rotatable drive wheel hub attached to the mounting bracket; a drive wheel attached to the drive wheel hub; a rotatable tension wheel hub attached to the mounting bracket and spaced from the drive wheel hub; a tension wheel attached to the tension wheel hub; a track belt trained over the drive wheel and the tension wheel and driven by the drive wheel to propel the mobile tower; and structure for pivotally mounting the mounting bracket to the mobile tower.

Abstract: A work vehicle includes a frame having opposed compartments to receive a lubricating liquid for providing lubrication to a corresponding motor-powered chain drive. The chain drive is usable to drivingly move a continuous track or a set of wheels for moving the work vehicle. The continuous track and the set of wheels are interchangeably receivable by the frame, the frame remaining virtually identical whether receiving the continuous track or the set of wheels.

Abstract: A triangular continuous track device is disclosed for direct replacement of a conventional tire and wheel combination found commonly on cars, trucks and other vehicles. A hub on the device is provided for direct bolt onto vehicles with a standard wheel bolt pattern. A track tensioning feature allows the track to be installed or repaired without removing the device from the vehicle. Grooves on the wheels are provided that engage with ribs on the inside of the track to efficiently transfer power from a power wheel in direct communication with the vehicle's axle to the two bottom idle wheels. The two idle wheels are centered under the power wheel and are held in ground contact by the weight of the vehicle. Other features as shown and disclosed are also provided.

Abstract: A semi-generic steering knuckle adapter assembly provides predetermined attachment locations for installing a wheel-replacing track system on a steering knuckle. The adapter assembly comprises one or more customized adapting members (e.g. frame(s), plate(s)) configured to be mounted to the steering knuckle of a vehicle, and a generic supporting member (e.g. frame, plate) configured to be mounted to the adapting member(s) and comprising the predetermined attachment locations where the support frame of the track system can be releasably yet rigidly secured. By providing predetermined and preconfigured attachment locations where the wheel-replacing track system can be secured, the adapter assembly allows the track system to be mounted to the vehicle while avoiding attachment at inconvenient and/or weak locations.

Abstract: The present invention provides track assemblies and a method that allow bringing the contact patch towards the inside (the outside) of the suspension arm, by providing a asymmetric track assembly, either by lowering at least one inside (outside) support wheel relative to the remaining support wheels, or by using a belt that comprises, transversally, at least one first profile on the outer (inner) side thereof lower than a second profile on an inner side thereof.

Abstract: A working vehicle is structured to maintain a ride quality for an operator on a control seat. Provided are a travel machine body which mounts an engine, front wheels on the machine body, a track frame on the machine body, right and left travel crawlers installed on the track frame, a rear axle which transmits a rotating force to the travel crawler, and oscillation supporting point shafts which support the track frame on the machine body so as to freely oscillate. In the case that the rear axle and the oscillation supporting point shafts are provided so as to be spaced, the oscillation supporting point shafts are arranged just below an axle case to which the rear axle is pivoted, and the track frame is connected to the axle case via link members provided in the oscillation supporting point shafts.

Abstract: A modular mobile robot with a chassis including a power source housed therein. Right and left hand track modules are each removeably coupled to the robot chassis. Each track module includes a side plate, at least one drive wheel rotatable with respect to the side plate, a motor for driving the drive wheel, at least one idler rotatable with respect to the side plate, and a track extending around the drive wheel, the side plate, and the idler. A turret assembly with its own turret drive subsystem is removeably coupled to the robot chassis via a quick release mechanism.

Abstract: A tracked climbing vehicle containing a compliant suspension apparatus to prescribe the distribution of forces on the adhering members in the tracked climbing machine capable of negotiating irregular surfaces. The compliant suspension apparatus is configured to negotiate irregularities in a climbing-surface without its tracks losing full surface contact and adhesion. It does this by distributing the loads from the climbing machine chassis to the adhering traction members in a specific prescribed fashion to avoid exceeding the allowable force in any adhering traction member and thus significantly improve the performance of the climbing machine.

Abstract: A modular robotic crawler can be formed by intercoupling a selected plurality of segment modules from a preexisting collection of differing compatible segment modules. The segment modules can have at least one intercoupleable interface. The selection can be based on a planned operational scenario of functions to be performed.

Abstract: In order to achieve a solution which assists a farmer in working land in a way which reduces the risk of soil compaction of the land there is, among others, a method of determining a work trajectory to be followed by an agricultural work vehicle. The method includes accessing a soil carry capacity map of an area of land to be worked by the agricultural work vehicle, receiving load data of the agricultural work vehicle so as to determine the agricultural work vehicle load and determining the work trajectory to be followed by the agricultural work vehicle. The work trajectory is determined by correlating the soil carry capacity map and the load data of the agricultural work vehicle, so as to optimize that the area to be worked with low carry capacity is worked with low agricultural work vehicle load.

Abstract: The invention relates to a self-propelled, wheeled vehicle that may be converted into a multi-track self-propelled vehicle using one or more track assemblies. Each track assembly includes a carriage with a main frame that support forward and rearward idler wheels and a plurality of centrally located, inner bogey wheels, and an outrigger beam that supports a plurality of centrally located, outer bogey wheels. A sprocket is operatively connected to a wheel hub of the spindle either directly or indirectly by way of a spacer element. A flexible endless track is entrained about the idler wheels, the bogey wheels and the sprocket.

Abstract: An agricultural harvesting machine, in particular a self-propelled forage harvester, has a body which includes frame parts and parts of the outer shell, a chassis having at least two drive axles which form the ground drive, and various working units and drive units, and the harvesting machine is separatable into at least one front module and one rear module which are displaceable relative to one another.

Abstract: A soil stabilizer for treating ground surface includes a stabilizer frame, a rotor rotatably mounted thereon, the rotor being movable such that the rotor may engage various depths of earth, a rotatable axle, and a track apparatus mounted on the rotatable axle, the track apparatus supporting the stabilizer frame and providing for movement of the stabilizer frame and rotor across the ground surface. The track apparatus may include a continuous flexible track having an upper length and a ground-engaging lower length and including an inner surface, an axle wheel mountable to the rotatable axle for rotational movement therewith, the axle wheel engaging the inner surface of the flexible track along the upper length to drive the flexible track in response to rotation of the axle, and a track apparatus frame for mounting the axle wheel.

Abstract: A triangular continuous track device is disclosed for direct replacement of a conventional tire and wheel combination found commonly on cars, trucks and other vehicles. A hub on the device is provided for direct bolt onto vehicles with a standard wheel bolt pattern. A track tensioning feature allows the track to be installed or repaired without removing the device from the vehicle. Grooves on the wheels are provided that engage with ribs on the inside of the track to efficiently transfer power from a power wheel in direct communication with the vehicle's axle to the two bottom idle wheels. The two idle wheels are centered under the power wheel and are held in ground contact by the weight of the vehicle. Other features as shown and disclosed are also provided.

Abstract: The invention relates to a self-propelled, wheeled vehicle that may be converted into a multi-track self-propelled vehicle using one or more track assemblies. Each track assembly includes a carriage with a main frame that support forward and rearward idler wheels and a plurality of centrally located, inner bogey wheels, and an outrigger beam that supports a plurality of centrally located, outer bogey wheels. One of the idler wheels is movably connected to the main frame and is movable by an actuator. The carriage is removably connected to a spindle of a vehicle by an attachment assembly. The attachment assembly includes a first or lower section and a second or upper section that generally encircle a portion of the spindle housing, and which are connected thereto by a plurality of fastening elements. A sprocket is operatively connected to a wheel hub of the spindle either directly or indirectly by way of a spacer element.

Abstract: A braking circuit is adapted to supply generatively produced energy of the motor as load resistance to a bipolar transistor. The braking circuit has a voltage regulator, which controls a voltage, applied to the base terminal of the bipolar transistor to achieve an associated controlled voltage based on a reference voltage. A first power supply connector of the electrical motor, in the generator mode of operation of the electrical motor, is coupled to a collector terminal of the bipolar transistor and to the voltage input of a voltage regulator. A second power supply connector of the electrical motor is coupled to an emitter terminal of the bipolar transistor and is coupled to a reference input of the voltage regulator via a resistive branch including at least one electrical resistor.

Abstract: The hybrid vehicle is mounted from a kit which includes a vehicle body that has a chassis, a first actuator assembly carried by the chassis and a motor carried by the chassis; a wheel kit including a second actuator assembly and a number of ground-engaging wheels; and a track kit that has track guide wheels, track driving wheels and a pair of ground-engaging tracks. The vehicle body can be interchangeably coupled to either one of the wheel kit thus defining a wheel mode hybrid vehicle and the track kit thus defining a track mode hybrid vehicle. In the wheel mode, the second actuator assembly is removably carried by the chassis, the ground-engaging wheels are operatively and removably coupled to the first and second actuator assemblies and the motor powers the first and second actuator assemblies.

Abstract: A robotic vehicle having two or more tracked mobility platforms that are mechanically linked together with a two-dimensional coupling, thereby forming a composite vehicle of increased mobility. The robotic vehicle is operative in hazardous environments and can be capable of semi-submersible operation. The robotic vehicle is capable of remote controlled operation via radio frequency and/or fiber optic communication link to a remote operator control unit. The tracks have a plurality of track-edge scallop cut-outs that allow the tracks to easily grab onto and roll across railroad tracks, especially when crossing the railroad tracks at an oblique angle.

Abstract: A modular mobile robot with a chassis including a power source housed therein. Right and left hand track modules are each removeably coupled to the robot chassis. Each track module includes a side plate, at least one drive wheel rotatable with respect to the side plate, a motor for driving the drive wheel, at least one idler rotatable with respect to the side plate, and a track extending around the drive wheel, the side plate, and the idler. A turret assembly with its own turret drive subsystem is removeably coupled to the robot chassis via a quick release mechanism.

Abstract: This invention generally relates to track systems and traction assemblies for use as wheel replacement for normally wheeled vehicles. The track system uses a traction band disposed about a sprocket wheel, idler wheels and road wheels for propulsion. The idler wheels and road wheels are typically pivotally mounted to a support frame, itself configured to be coupled to the sprocket wheel via a support member. The track system also comprises a movement limiting link mounted both to the support member and to the vehicle frame. The movement limiting link limits longitudinal and lateral movements of the track system, such as to prevent contact between the track system and the vehicle.

Abstract: An all-terrain vehicle having a unique suspension system for enabling handicapped individuals or invalids to easily access the vehicle and be self-transportable over ground or an ice surface.

Abstract: An all-terrain vehicle (ATV) equippable with a plurality of ground-engaging wheels or a plurality of ground-engaging track assemblies providing traction on the ground. The ATV is designed to facilitate its use whether it is equipped with the ground-engaging wheels or the ground-engaging track assemblies. A powertrain, a steering system, a suspension, a braking system, a body, and/or other components of the ATV have features which take into account that the ATV can be equipped with either the ground-engaging wheels or the ground-engaging track assemblies.

Abstract: A drive system has a drive-system frame operatively connectable to a vehicle. The drive-system frame is capable of pivotal movement relative to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle to steer the vehicle. The drive-system frame is incapable of pivotal movement with respect to the frame of the vehicle in a plane parallel to the longitudinal axis and normal to the ground when the vehicle is on flat level terrain and steered straight. A rail is pivotally mounted to the drive-system frame. A ground-engaging endless belt is in sliding engagement with the rail. The belt is operatively connectable to an engine to propel the vehicle. The drive system is operatively connectable to the steering device of the vehicle. A steering angle stopper is disposed on the vehicle such that a steering linkage of the vehicle does not bear a force created when the stopper is engaged. A vehicle is also described.

Abstract: A vehicle, having a main body is equipped to be fitted mechanically with devices to form a wheeled vehicle, or with devices to form a crawler vehicle. The main body having of the vehicle houses the common components utilized in both configurations such as the engine and the gear box of the vehicle.

Abstract: A snow traction unit to replace a wheel of an all wheel drive vehicle which includes a frame supporting two carrier wheels; said carrier wheels being spaced apart a distance greater than their combined radii; an endless snow contacting track mounted for rotation on said carrier wheels; a track contacting surface provided between the lower extremities of said carrier wheels; a drive engagement means for engaging the drive shaft of the vehicle and for driving at least one of said carrier wheels; the arrangement of the width of the track, the spacing between the carrier wheels and the track contacting surface resulting in the vehicle having a force imprint less than 250 Kg/square meter.

Abstract: An amphibious all terrain vehicle having a body and at least three wheel and axle assemblies on each side and a pair of ground engaging track assemblies which are mounted on tires on either side of the vehicle. Each of the wheel and axle assemblies include an axle shaft supported by and positioned transverse to the vehicle body so that the wheel and axle assemblies form a front assembly, a rear assembly and at least one middle assembly. Each of the axle shafts has an axle extension with the axle extensions of the front and rear wheel and axle assemblies being fixed extensions and the axle extensions on at least the middle assemblies are idler axle extensions to permit the wheels on such assemblies to move in a free wheeling mode relative to their respective axle shafts.

Abstract: A track extension in combination with a track system comprises a track system having a track frame, wheels mounted to the frame and adapted to allow cyclic movement of a track about the frame, drive means in the frame adapted to transmit a drive of a vehicle to the track to drive the track in a cyclic movement. An extension frame is releasably secured to an end of the track frame. An idler wheelset is mounted to an end of the extension frame. A track is mounted about the track frame and the extension frame such that a footprint of the track is delimited at an end by the engagement of the track with the idler wheelset. A method is provided to increase a footprint of a track system.

Abstract: This invention relates to a traction assembly for a vehicle which uses an endless traction band and a plurality of wheels for propulsion. More particularly, the traction assembly comprises a sprocket wheel which has a different size and number of sprocket teeth depending on whether the traction kit replaces the front wheels or the rear wheels of the vehicle. The sprocket wheel of the traction kit can also be configured such that its sprocket teeth are laterally offset. The traction kit can also comprise an anti-torque system that prevent physical contact between the traction kit and the vehicle and that can bias the position of the traction kit in order to improve the steering performance. Finally, the traction assembly can comprise a pivotable extension which lengthens the traction assembly and improves its traction capabilities.

Abstract: A remote-controlled dynamoelectric machine maintenance vehicle that can fit and travel within the air gap between a stator and rotor of a dynamoelectric machine. The maintenance vehicle has an effectuator that can remotely attach to an adjustable wedge within a coil slot of the stator and tighten the wedge in position and then move on to repeat the process until all the wedges on the stator are secured.