Track Support Mounted For Vertical Movement Patents (Class 180/9.5)
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Publication number: 20090050379Abstract: A track vehicle includes a cab operable to support an operator. Left and right motors each rotate an output shaft at a first speed, and a speed reduction system is operably coupled to each output shaft. Left and right drive shafts are driven by the speed reduction system at a second speed that is slower than the first speed. Left and right drive sprockets are mounted for rotation with the respective first and second drive shafts. Left and right track carriages support the cab and left and right tracks are mounted for rotation about the track carriages in response to rotation of the respective left and right drive shafts, such that the left and right tracks are driven by the left and right drive sprockets to move the track vehicle along a ground surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 22, 2007Publication date: February 26, 2009Applicant: CLARK EQUIPMENT COMPANYInventors: Larry E. Albright, Gary J. Homola, Maria C. Homola, Rodney Koch, Lance Tuhy, Thomas J. Roan
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Patent number: 7493976Abstract: A variable configuration articulated tracked vehicle comprises a chassis, a pair of right and left drive pulleys, a right and left planetary wheel, a right and left track, a right and left arm mechanism, and a right and left drive motor. The drive pulleys are rotatably attached to the chassis and each pair of drive pulleys is in the same plane. The planetary wheels are movable relative to the chassis such that each planetary wheel is in the same plane as its respective drive pulleys. The tracks extend around the pair of drive pulleys and the planetary wheel on the respective sides. The arm mechanisms connect the respective planetary wheel to the chassis. Each arm mechanism is rotatably attached to the chassis with a cam. The cam defines a motion path of one end of the arm whereby the motion of the planetary wheel provides a path for the planetary wheel such that the track path defined by the respective drive pulleys and the planetary wheel is a constant track length.Type: GrantFiled: August 4, 2005Date of Patent: February 24, 2009Assignee: Engineering Services, INc.Inventors: Andrew A. Goldenberg, Jun Lin
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Patent number: 7461712Abstract: A drilling machine includes a frame, a tower that is supported by the frame, two tracks for movement over the ground, at least three yokes that interconnect the frame and the two tracks, at least three hydraulic cylinders, an inclinometer that senses the inclination of the frame and produces an output signal that is indicative of the inclination of the frame, and a controller that receives the output signal from the inclinometer. The tower includes a drill string. Each yoke is connected to the frame and one of the tracks. Each hydraulic cylinder is extendible and retractable in response to an associated control signal and connected to the frame and an associated yoke. The controller generates control signals for the hydraulic cylinders such that the hydraulic cylinders are controlled to extend or retract to maintain the frame in a level position.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2007Date of Patent: December 9, 2008Assignee: Atlas Copco Drilling SolutionsInventors: Arnold R. Law, Ajay Kumar
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Patent number: 7461711Abstract: An equipment-carrying crawler (20) includes a rolling track (44) and a structural support (70). The structural support (70) supports equipment (16). Lifting magnets (72) are coupled to the rolling track (44) and to the structural support (70). The lifting magnets (72) are configured to oppose each other, lift the structural support (70), and aid in the translation of the rolling track (44).Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 2004Date of Patent: December 9, 2008Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Kevin E. McCrary, Arthur C. Day, John Edwards, Richard A. Hawkins, Mark D. Higgins, Philip E. Johnson, John A. Mittleider, James R. Schindler, Michael Strasik
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Patent number: 7455141Abstract: A track drive system comprises a chassis frame and a drive wheel rotatably coupled to the chassis frame. An upper idler is rotatably coupled to the chassis frame rearwardly of the drive wheel. A forward idler is rotatably coupled to the chassis frame below the drive wheel. A suspended frame is pivotally coupled to the chassis frame by upper and lower swing arms. A rear idler is rotatably coupled to a rear portion of the suspended frame at a location displaced generally downwardly from an attachment point of the upper swing arm by a rear idler offset distance. A lower idler is rotatably coupled to a forward portion of the suspended frame. A biasing means biases the suspended frame away from the chassis frame.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2006Date of Patent: November 25, 2008Inventor: William B. E. Hildebrand
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Patent number: 7455131Abstract: A suspension system for a tracked vehicle that includes at least four suspension cylinders for suspending at least two track module frames to a chassis of the tracked vehicle to allow torsional flexing to accommodate terrain unevenness with significantly less terrain damage to provide a smoother, safer ride, with bump absorption and improved stability. The suspension cylinders can be hydraulic cylinders, pneumatic cylinders for air bags, powered jackscrews or manual jackscrews. The suspension system also includes lateral links for attaching the at least two track frame module to the chassis to allow the track module frame to move vertically, to tilt and to angle for resiliently tracking uneven surfaces. Longitudinal links for attaching each of the at least two track frame module to the chassis to keep the at least two track module frames centered within the chassis of the tracked vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2006Date of Patent: November 25, 2008Inventor: Norman Rittenhouse
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Publication number: 20080196947Abstract: An all terrain vehicle and suspension providing frame members that pivot relative to each other and independent of supported track assemblies. Suspension frame sections pivot at supported bearings and torsion couplers. An endless track of each track assembly is trained around a framework having a drive sprocket and sets of idler wheels. The track assemblies independently pivot relative to the vehicle from a track suspension frame and supported sets of idler wheels mounted to torsion biased rocker arms that resist and bias the rocker arms and idler wheels to an equilibrium position and conformally shape the track to the terrain. Improved track drive lug surfaces are shaped to prevent track derailment. The vehicle frame and track assemblies independently rise, fall and pivot as obstacles of differing configurations and types are encountered to stabilize and maintain an operator body substantially parallel to the ground.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 15, 2008Publication date: August 21, 2008Inventor: Glen Brazier
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Publication number: 20080167752Abstract: A tracked robotic crawler capable of multiple movement moves is disclosed. In one embodiment, the tracked robotic crawler includes at least one frame unit, the frame unit having a continuous track rotatably coupled thereto. Disposed on the at least one frame unit is at least one articulated arm, the arm being movable relative to the frame unit in at least one dimension. The articulated arm helps to improve mobility of the tracked robotic crawler in various environments.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 13, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventor: Stephen C. Jacobsen
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Patent number: 7395890Abstract: A rear track suspension for a snowmobile having a single resilient element for biasing both the front and rear arms. The slide rail is permitted to pitch between first and second pitching constraints in response to terrain obstacles in a gradual manner as the motion constraints are approached. This reduces jarring of the rider when the pitching constraints are met. Suspension compression exhibits an initial falling rate motion ratio, followed by a constant rate motion ratio, followed by a rising rate motion ratio. This U-shaped motion ratio profile advantageously provides cushioning upon landing along with a resistance to bottoming out of the suspension upon full compression. The result is an improved ride without sacrificing suspension performance.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2006Date of Patent: July 8, 2008Assignee: the University of Western OntarioInventor: Peter Visscher
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Publication number: 20080105472Abstract: A suspension system for a track vehicle, the suspension system comprising: a frame; a track surrounding the frame; a plurality of suspension modules resiliently interconnected between the frame and track to bias the track into engagement with a ground surface upon which the track vehicle sits; and at least one idler over which the track extends. Under a normal load, all weight of the track vehicle is borne by the suspension modules and not by the at least one idler. Under selected conditions the at least one idler bears at least some weight of the track vehicle to rigidify the track vehicle suspension during such selected conditions.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 2, 2006Publication date: May 8, 2008Inventor: Lance S. Tuhy
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Patent number: 7343991Abstract: An electrically driven wheel for a tracked vehicle which includes a driving track wheel with built in cogs and a brushless DC motor having a mounting shaft to connect the wheels to the tracked vehicle. The brushless DC motor is coupled within the driving track wheel to develop rotational torque for rotating the driving track wheel and includes a drum, a bank of pole assemblies connected between the drum and the stationary mounting shaft, and electrical wiring for energizing the bank of pole assemblies. In an embodiment, the brushless DC motor includes permanent magnet high multiple pole motors. The electrically driven wheels are part of a drive system for the tracked vehicle. The drive system includes a track module frame, at least two flexible tracks coupled with the electrically driven track wheels, and a controller for controlling the electrically driven track wheels in response to a driver command.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2006Date of Patent: March 18, 2008Inventor: Norman Rittenhouse
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Patent number: 7231993Abstract: A track driven machine has a pair of track frames on opposite sides thereof, and each of the track frames has a pair of laterally extending arms fixed thereto. The arms are joined to a machine frame only through vibration isolating elastomeric blocks that carry compression loads from the arms to the machine frame. The elastomeric blocks are held in place with bolts that pass through openings in the machine frame. There are second elastomeric blocks above each of the first blocks to support downward movement of the arms relative to the machine frame.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2004Date of Patent: June 19, 2007Assignee: Clark Equipment CompanyInventors: Larry E. Albright, Dan Frederick
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Patent number: 7131508Abstract: An endless track assembly that mounts to a wheeled vehicle. The assembly provides 1) a track suspension having fixed or adjustable, independently biased sets of idler wheels to vary the track contour without affecting track tension, 2) an eccentric bearing housing at a drive sprocket controls track tension, 3) a contoured peripheral edge at the drive sprocket prevents ice and mud buildup, 4) rubber-coated, plastic idler wheels facilitate track movement, 5) a multi-vehicle compatible adapter mounting plate accommodates a variety of vehicles, 6) a rotation limited torsion coupler and/or rotation limiting coupler arms prevent track contact with the vehicle, 7) a locking steering arm coupler prevents loss of steering control, and 8) shaped track lugs and channels clear and direct debris away from the track suspension and drive assembly.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2005Date of Patent: November 7, 2006Inventor: Glen Brazier
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Patent number: 7070012Abstract: An improved rear suspension assembly is provided for snowmobiles, which includes a link assembly operatively connecting the rear suspension arm to a front cushion absorber so that the pivot movement of the rear suspension arm actuates the front shock absorber assembly. In one embodiment of the present invention, a rocker arm is pivotally attached to the slide frame assembly and has a front end thereof pivotally attached to the front shock absorber assembly, and has a rear end pivotally attached through a link rod to the rear suspension arm. The present invention advantageously improves the dynamic response of the rear suspension during snowmobile acceleration, and therefore prevents the skis of the snowmobile from lifting off from the ground.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2004Date of Patent: July 4, 2006Assignee: Bombardier Recreational Products Inc.Inventor: Berthold Fecteau
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Patent number: 7040426Abstract: The present invention relates generally to recreational vehicles. More particularly, the present invention relates to methods and apparatus for traversing challenging terrain with a recreational vehicle. A vehicle in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention comprises a first drive track that is supported by a first rear suspension and a second drive track of vehicle is supported by a second rear suspension. The first drive track and the second drive track may be operatively coupled to an engine by a drive train for propelling the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2003Date of Patent: May 9, 2006Assignee: Polaris Industries, Inc.Inventor: Norman O. Berg
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Patent number: 7017688Abstract: A half-track vehicle includes a frame, first and second beams having forward and rearward wheels attached thereto, and first and second suspension systems. The frame includes a first side and a second side, and the first suspension system suspends the first beam from the frame adjacent the first side of the frame and the second suspension system suspends the second beam from the frame adjacent the second side of the frame. Each suspension system includes at least one element, such as a trailing arm, and A-arm, and a transverse suspension member, that is attached to one of frame and an associated one of the first and second beams in a manner that permits three degrees of rotational movement and that transmits motive force from the first and second beams to the frame.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2003Date of Patent: March 28, 2006Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Lee N. Bowers, Mark Kohls, Philip Tsiaras
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Patent number: 6962222Abstract: A mobile agricultural machine, particularly for use as a combine, which demonstrates improved operational movement and travel performance characteristics, and is capable of easily changing direction during operation, includes right and left travel crawlers, supported by drive sprockets and tension rollers, which are installed on right and left track frames through track rollers. Right and left travel frames are capable of being controllably elevated through crawler elevation arms. Tension rollers provide movement to the travel crawlers in a vertical direction, perpendicular to the ground.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 2001Date of Patent: November 8, 2005Assignee: Yanmar Agricultural Equipment Co., Ltd.Inventor: Toshinori Kirihata
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Patent number: 6904986Abstract: An endless track assembly that mounts to a wheeled vehicle. The assembly provides 1) a track suspension having fixed or adjustable, independently biased sets of idler wheels to vary the track contour without affecting track tension, 2) an eccentric bearing housing at a drive sprocket controls track tension, 3) a contoured peripheral edge at the drive sprocket prevents ice and mud buildup, 4) rubber-coated, plastic idler wheels facilitate track movement, 5) a multi-vehicle compatible adapter mounting plate accommodates a variety of vehicles, 6) a rotation limited torsion coupler and/or rotation limiting coupler arms prevent track contact with the vehicle, 7) a locking steering arm coupler prevents loss of steering control, and 8) shaped track lugs and channels clear and direct debris away from the track suspension and drive assembly.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 2003Date of Patent: June 14, 2005Inventor: Glen Brazier
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Patent number: 6892838Abstract: A half-track multi-use vehicle having an independent suspension system that reduces body roll during operation in rough or sloping terrain. The vehicle includes a frame, a pair of beams that each holds mid and rear wheels, and a suspension system extending between the each beam and the frame. The suspension system includes a plurality of cushions and a stabilizer bar. The stabilizer bar is secured to each beam at a predetermined position between the mid and rear wheels. The predetermined position is selected such that each wheel's wheel rate, which is the combined spring rate contributed by an associated cushion and the stabilizer bar, is equal.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2003Date of Patent: May 17, 2005Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Lee N. Bowers
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Patent number: 6880901Abstract: A traveling apparatus of a crawler vehicle can achieve both reduction of an impact applied to an operator cab and maintenance of high traction force even at a time of backward traveling on a ground surface having an irregularity. Right and left track frames (11, 11) are mounted to pivot shafts (31, 31) respectively mounted to right and left sides of a rear end portion of a main frame (30) so as to freely swing in a vertical direction, a rear frame (40) having a horizontal shaft apparatus (46) arranged therein is suspended to a rear portion of the main frame so as to freely swing in the vertical direction, final reduction gears (50) are attached to right and left outer sides of the rear frame, and an output shaft of the horizontal shaft apparatus is connected to an input shaft of the final reduction gear.Type: GrantFiled: September 4, 2003Date of Patent: April 19, 2005Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.Inventor: Masatake Tamaru
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Patent number: 6860571Abstract: A track driven device having a suspension system, positive hydraulic braking system, positive drive belt system and belt tensioning system for an improved ride, reducing belt wear and belt failure.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2003Date of Patent: March 1, 2005Assignee: Scheetz Technology, Inc.Inventor: Timothy R. Scheetz
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Patent number: 6843619Abstract: An apparatus transforms a motorized frame mounted on crawler tracks and having a rotatable horizontal platform, into a pipeline laying machine or the like. A first structure is hinged to the platform on a horizontal axis at one end, at its other end, has a coupling intended to be secured to a track guide carriage. A second structure which, at its free end carries a lifting member, is hinged on a horizontal axis to the coupling.Type: GrantFiled: November 23, 2001Date of Patent: January 18, 2005Assignee: Coris Di Gelmi Ing. Giuliano Societa in Accomandita SemplīceInventor: Giuliano Gelmi
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Patent number: 6823953Abstract: A crawler vehicle has a frame extending along a longitudinal axis of the vehicle, and two lateral track carriages oscillating with respect to the frame about a rear transverse axis. Each carriage is connected to a front cross member by a respective connecting assembly having a pin, which permits relative oscillation of the cross member and the carriage about a hinge axis perpendicular to the rear transverse axis, and has an eccentric portion for varying the effective length of the cross member between two given values as the carriages oscillate about the rear transverse axis.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2002Date of Patent: November 30, 2004Assignee: CNH America LLCInventor: Gianfranco Castrignano
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Patent number: 6810975Abstract: A suspension system for a tracked vehicle, preferably having rubber tracks. The track assembly is mounted on a pivot shaft such that it can oscillate about the axis of the pivot shaft. The suspension system allows the track assembly to move vertically relative to the vehicle chassis to compensate for uneven terrain. For instance the track assembly can compensate for depressions or bumps in the terrain and preclude the chassis of the vehicle from tilting with each minor change in the terrain. In addition, the track assembly movement in the vertical direction provides a much smoother ride than do traditional tracked vehicles. The suspension system of the present invention is provided for use with a pair of track assemblies.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2002Date of Patent: November 2, 2004Assignee: WesternGaco A.S.Inventors: James A. Nagorcka, Lyal Allen
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Patent number: 6796391Abstract: A crawler running gear, particularly for a construction machine, having a central section and two crawler supports with in each case one crawler track. The crawler supports are arranged along a longitudinal direction on both longitudinal sides of the central section and are fixed to cross members, which are in each case displaceably mounted in a displacement direction on the central section by means of at least one guide. For the purpose of a stable connection at least one clamping element is provided with which a cross member can be braced at right angles to the displacement direction relative to its guide.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 2003Date of Patent: September 28, 2004Assignee: Bauer Maschinen GmbHInventor: Werner Harthauser
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Publication number: 20040140138Abstract: An endless track assembly that mounts to a wheeled vehicle. The assembly provides 1) a track suspension having fixed or adjustable, independently biased sets of idler wheels to vary the track contour without affecting track tension, 2) an eccentric bearing housing at a drive sprocket controls track tension, 3) a contoured peripheral edge at the drive sprocket prevents ice and mud buildup, 4) rubber-coated, plastic idler wheels facilitate track movement, 5) a multi-vehicle compatible adapter mounting plate accommodates a variety of vehicles, 6) a rotation limited torsion coupler and/or rotation limiting coupler arms prevent track contact with the vehicle, 7) a locking steering arm coupler prevents loss of steering control, and 8) shaped track lugs and channels clear and direct debris away from the track suspension and drive assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 21, 2003Publication date: July 22, 2004Inventor: Glen Brazier
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Publication number: 20040099451Abstract: A suspension system for a tracked vehicle, preferably having rubber tracks. The track assembly is mounted on a pivot shaft such that it can oscillate about the axis of the pivot shaft. The suspension system allows the track assembly to move vertically relative to the vehicle chassis to compensate for uneven terrain. For instance the track assembly can compensate for depressions or bumps in the terrain and preclude the chassis of the vehicle from tilting with each minor change in the terrain. In addition, the track assembly movement in the vertical direction provides a much smoother ride than do traditional tracked vehicles. The suspension system of the present invention is provided for use with a pair of track assemblies.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 22, 2002Publication date: May 27, 2004Inventors: James A. Nagorcka, Lyal Allen
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Patent number: 6739679Abstract: A rolling wheel support structure for crawler traveling apparatus includes rotary shafts rotatably supporting rolling wheels which roll on a ground contacting side of an inner circumferential surface of an endless crawler, a track frame supporting the rotary shaft thereon, and a buffer member formed of an elastic material and provided between the track frame and a rotary shaftType: GrantFiled: July 2, 2002Date of Patent: May 25, 2004Assignee: Sumitomo Rubber Industries Ltd.Inventors: Yoshio Ueno, Masanori Kitano
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Publication number: 20040065487Abstract: A track vehicle employing a rail track system attached to the sides of the frame of a track vehicle having a continuous track driven by pneumatic tires mounted to the frame proximate each end of the rail system along such that triangular torsion and compression links are mounted to the continuous track such that the apex end slides along the rail and the other ends extending against the track to provides lighter more even ground contact for use on snow and other soft terrain than present track vehicles.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 7, 2003Publication date: April 8, 2004Applicant: Tool Engineering & Manufacturing CompanyInventor: Paul G. McKinnon
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Patent number: 6715575Abstract: A suspension system for suspending an endless track beneath a tracked vehicle chassis. The suspension system can be a fully coupled suspension, a partially coupled suspension or a non-coupled suspension. The suspension system includes at least one elongated suspension rail having a front portion, a rear portion and a bottom track-engaging portion. At least one suspension arm has an upper end adapted for pivotal connection to the vehicle chassis and a lower end pivotally connected to the suspension rail. The lower end of the suspension arm can optionally have a displacement with a non-linear component. A biasing mechanism provides a biasing force to bias the suspension rail away from the vehicle chassis. The track tensioning system coupled to the suspension arm applies a tensioning force to the endless track in response to displacement of the suspension arm. The tensioning force generates a supplemental force transmitted by the endless track that augments the biasing force of the biasing mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 2002Date of Patent: April 6, 2004Assignee: Formula Fast RacingInventor: Gerard J. Karpik
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Patent number: 6692185Abstract: An improved arrangement for adjusting crawler-type transport assemblies in a self-propelled construction vehicle between two differing “home” positions. The crawler transport assembly comprises a steering mechanism including a collar assembly operated via an actuator mounted to the frame of the apparatus for driving steering rotation of the transport assembly via the collar assembly. The collar assembly comprises a driving element integrally coupled to the actuator and a driven element integrally coupled to the transport assembly. The driven element can be affixed to the driving element selectively in two differing dispositions corresponding to the two “home” positions of the transport assembly.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2001Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: Power Curbers, Inc.Inventor: John Charles Colvard
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Publication number: 20030221879Abstract: A half-track all-terrain vehicle having an independent suspension system that provides an improved vehicle ride and facilitates traversing obstacles. The vehicle includes a frame, a pair of beams that each holds front and rear wheels, and a suspension system extending between the each beam and the frame. The suspension system includes a plurality of cushions. The cushions are tuned such that forward cushions have a relatively greater suspension stroke than the rearward cushions and thereby permit the front wheels to engage the ground sequentially before the rear wheels when the vehicle goes over a step or drop off. The suspension system is further tuned to permit the vehicle to traverse an obstacle having a height that is slightly lower than the frame clearance by permitting the front wheels to lift vertically to a distance essentially equal to the frame clearance.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 6, 2003Publication date: December 4, 2003Applicant: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Lee N. Bowers, Mark Kittel, Hidefumi Ishii
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Publication number: 20030205416Abstract: The invention relates to a crawler running gear, particularly for a construction machine, having a central section and two crawler supports with in each case one crawler track. The crawler supports are arranged along a longitudinal direction on both longitudinal sides of the central section and are fixed to cross members, which are in each case displaceably mounted in a displacement direction on the central section by means of at least one guide. For the purpose of a stable connection at least one clamping element is provided with which a cross member can be braced at right angles to the displacement direction relative to its guide.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 2, 2003Publication date: November 6, 2003Inventor: Werner Harthauser
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Patent number: 6601664Abstract: The present invention is a crawler device for a crawler type vehicle, which lowers the vehicle height, decreases the vehicle width, and exhibits superior stability during operation. For this purpose, in a crawler type vehicle having, on right and left sides of either one of front or rear portion, or both of the front and rear portions of a vehicle body, crawler devices each having a sprocket, an idler disposed on a truck frame, and a crawler belt passed through the sprocket and the idler, the crawler device can include a front end link coupled to a forward part of the truck frame by a pin at a lower end portion thereof and to the side of said vehicle body by a pin at the upper end portion thereof, and can include a rear end link coupled to a rearward part of the truck frame by a pin at the lower end portion thereof and to the side of the vehicle body at a position behind the front end link by a pin at the upper end portion thereof.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 2001Date of Patent: August 5, 2003Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.Inventors: Hikosaburo Hiraki, Haruhiro Tsubota, Kazutoshi Hori
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Publication number: 20030116364Abstract: A machine frame assembly is provided that includes a machine frame, a hollow pivot shaft attached to the machine frame and configured to support a drive assembly for a track-type machine to allow pivotal movement of the drive assembly relative to the machine frame, and a power source, a portion thereof extending into the hollow pivot shaft and a portion thereof mounted adjacent to an end of the hollow pivot shaft. The power source is configured to transmit power through the hollow pivot shaft.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 21, 2001Publication date: June 26, 2003Inventor: Gerald Paul Simmons
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Patent number: 6450280Abstract: An improved torsion type rear suspension system for a snowmobile. The suspension includes a pair of rails movable with respect to the snowmobile body and a pair of torsion springs disposed between the body and the rails for biasing the suspension toward its extended position. Also included is a cam block having a contoured cam surface which engages a leg of the torsion spring at a variable point of contact. As the suspension moves from the extended to the collapsed position, the effective length of the spring leg is reduced, resulting in a nonlinear change in spring force as a function of deflection. The cam block may be adjusted with respect to the suspension rails with an eccentric to permit additional adjustment of the spring force function to compensate for varying terrain, vehicle speed, and operator weight.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2000Date of Patent: September 17, 2002Assignee: Renton Coil Spring CompanyInventors: Charles F. Pepka, Michael Warren Thibert
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Publication number: 20020070059Abstract: The present invention is a crawler device for a crawler type vehicle, which lowers the vehicle height, decreases the vehicle width, and exhibits superior stability during operation.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 21, 2001Publication date: June 13, 2002Applicant: KOMATSU LTD.Inventors: Hikosaburo Hikari, Haruhiro Tsubota, Kazutoshi Hori
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Patent number: 6378635Abstract: The present invention provides a track frame connecting structure of a heavy work vehicle that can minimize the amount of up and down movement of the ends of an equalizer bar, so as to make track frames have a sufficiently wide range of straight-line motion for a heavy work vehicle like a tractor. In the track frame connecting structure of a working vehicle in which an equalizer bar which is pivotally mounted on a body is connected to connecting links, the connecting links and the track frames are connected with each other, the connecting links and limiting links are connected with each other, and the links and the body are connected with each other.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 2000Date of Patent: April 30, 2002Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.Inventors: Tsuyoshi Yoshida, Taira Ozaki
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Patent number: 6367827Abstract: The proposed crawler-mounted board (1) is specifically for the purpose of riding over grass or lawn slopes. It features a crawler unit which consists of two slightly concave-curved undercarriage tracks (12), the tracks being connected to one another by four cross-struts (13). The crawler unit can be mounted to a frame (2) made of tubing or rods. Each of the undercarriage tracks (12) consists of a long elongated body, a flexible crawler track chain, and large number of crawler track segments. A block can be mounted to the outside of each crawler track segment. While the crawler-mounted board is in motion, frictional forces act between the turf and the crawler track chains and the blocks of the crawler unit. These frictional forces cause the crawler track chains along with the crawler track segments to move around the body of the undercarriage tracks (12) in a closed circuit.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 2000Date of Patent: April 9, 2002Inventors: Hans jun Schneider, Rolf Schneider
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Patent number: 6334496Abstract: The present invention is a crawler device for a crawler type vehicle, which lowers the vehicle height, decreases the vehicle width, and exhibits superior stability during operation.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 1998Date of Patent: January 1, 2002Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.Inventors: Hikosaburo Hiraki, Haruhiro Tsubota, Kazutoshi Hori
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Publication number: 20010047894Abstract: A recreational vehicle which has a body which may be configured as a boat hull, a pair of spaced apart front wheels, an endless track located rearwardly of the spaced apart front wheels, drive means operative to drive at least the endless track, a steering means connected to the spaced apart front wheels. The vehicle is able to handle most types of snow and land conditions and can also be configured to operate in water.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 13, 2000Publication date: December 6, 2001Inventor: Raymond Maguire
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Publication number: 20010040058Abstract: A tracked vehicle produces a pressure no more than 3 psi on the ground by increasing the number of contact points on the inner surface of the track. The stiffness of the track is also selected to minimize bowing between the idler wheels or rollers. The track is therefore kept substantially straight between the rollers so increase the efficiency associated with transferring power to track. The drive sprocket is positioned above the ground so as to eliminate complexity in the design and yet effectively transmit power to the tracks. Positioning the drive sprocket above ground also prevents derailing of the track. The track is also held in a constant state of tension on the driver sprocket and the roller. This too prevents derailment. The undercarriage of the vehicle includes torsion axles and sealed bearings to provide for a lower maintenance track. Components associated with the undercarriage do not require constant greasing and cleaning of the idler wheels.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 16, 2001Publication date: November 15, 2001Applicant: A.S.V., Inc.Inventors: Gary Lemke, Brad Lemke, Cary Safe, Edgar Hetteen
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Patent number: 6298933Abstract: A main frame to roller frame stop assembly for limiting movement of an equalizer bar relative to the main frame of a track-type tractor or other work machine wherein the stop assembly includes a first member mountable to one of the roller frames, and a second member mountable to the main frame of the work machine, the second member being positioned and located to engage the first member when the equalizer bar moves a predetermined distance relative to the main frame, the first member being positioned and located in the vicinity of the bearing joint coupling the equalizer bar to the roller frame and further including an elastomeric portion capable of dampening and absorbing at least a portion of the load exerted thereagainst when the first stop member engages the second stop member.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 1999Date of Patent: October 9, 2001Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventor: Gerald P. Simmons
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Patent number: 6283562Abstract: A triangular crawler device, which is free from being stumbled and whose crawler belt does not come off from a body of a vehicle while the vehicle travels, includes a track frame (10), having a front idler (15A) and a rear idler (15B) disposed at the front and rear ends thereof respectively; a sprocket (20), rotatably fixed to the track frame (10); links (11, 13), for connecting the body (2) of the vehicle (1) and the track frame (10) together; and a crawler belt (17), wound around the front idler (15A), the rear idler (15B) and the sprocket (20).Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 1999Date of Patent: September 4, 2001Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.Inventors: Haruhiro Tsubota, Hikosaburo Hiraki, Kazutoshi Hori
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Patent number: 6263991Abstract: A extended movement rear suspension for a snowmobile. The suspension includes at least two elongated members of a substantially constant length coupled to the snowmobile frame and to an endless track guide rail assembly. The suspension keeps the guide rail assembly at a substantially constant angular orientation relative to the frame for improved performance and operator comfort. The suspension also configures the endless track into a generally triangular shape.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 1999Date of Patent: July 24, 2001Assignee: Redline Performance Products, Inc.Inventors: William M. Savage, Kent H. Harle
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Publication number: 20010004947Abstract: A tracked vehicle produces a pressure no more than 3 psi on the ground by increasing the number of contact points on the inner surface of the track. The stiffness of the track is also selected to minimize bowing between the idler wheels or rollers. The track is therefore kept substantially straight between the rollers so increase the efficiency associated with transferring power to track. The drive sprocket is positioned above the ground so as to eliminate complexity in the design and yet effectively transmit power to the tracks. Positioning the drive sprocket above ground also prevents derailing of the track. The track is also held in a constant state of tension on the driver sprocket and the roller. This too prevents derailment. The undercarriage of the vehicle includes torsion axles and sealed bearings to provide for a lower maintenance track. Components associated with the undercarriage do not require constant greasing and cleaning of the idler wheels.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 16, 2001Publication date: June 28, 2001Inventors: Gary Lemke, Brad Lemke, Cary Safe, Edgar Hetteen
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Patent number: 6247547Abstract: A tracked vehicle produces a pressure no more than 3 psi on the ground by increasing the number of contact points on the inner surface of the track. The stiffness of the track is also selected to minimize bowing between the idler wheels or rollers. The track is therefore kept substantially straight between the rollers so increase the efficiency associated with transferring power to track. The drive sprocket is positioned above the ground so as to eliminate complexity in the design and yet effectively transmit power to the tracks. Positioning the drive sprocket above ground also prevents derailing of the track. The track is also held in a constant state of tension on the driver sprocket and the roller. This too prevents derailment. The undercarriage of the vehicle includes torsion axles and sealed bearings to provide for a lower maintenance track. Components associated with the undercarriage do not require constant greasing and cleaning of the idler wheels.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 1998Date of Patent: June 19, 2001Assignee: A.S.V., Inc.Inventors: Gary Lemke, Brad Lemke, Cary Safe, Edgar Hetteen
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Publication number: 20010001993Abstract: A tracked vehicle produces a pressure no more than 3 psi on the ground by increasing the number of contact points on the inner surface of the track. The stiffness of the track is also selected to minimize bowing between the idler wheels or rollers. The track is therefore kept substantially straight between the rollers so increase the efficiency associated with transferring power to track. The drive sprocket is positioned above the ground so as to eliminate complexity in the design and yet effectively transmit power to the tracks. Positioning the drive sprocket above ground also prevents derailing of the track. The track is also held in a constant state of tension on the driver sprocket and the roller. This too prevents derailment. The undercarriage of the vehicle includes torsion axles and sealed bearings to provide for a lower maintenance track. Components associated with the undercarriage do not require constant greasing and cleaning of the idler wheels.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 16, 2001Publication date: May 31, 2001Applicant: A.S.V., Inc.Inventors: Gary Lemke, Brad Lemke, Cary Safe, Edgar Hetteen
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Publication number: 20010001431Abstract: A tracked vehicle produces a pressure no more than 3 psi on the ground by increasing the number of contact points on the inner surface of the track. The stiffness of the track is also selected to minimize bowing between the idler wheels or rollers. The track is therefore kept substantially straight between the rollers so increase the efficiency associated with transferring power to track. The drive sprocket is positioned above the ground so as to eliminate complexity in the design and yet effectively transmit power to the tracks. Positioning the drive sprocket above ground also prevents derailing of the track. The track is also held in a constant state of tension on the driver sprocket and the roller. This too prevents derailment. The undercarriage of the vehicle includes torsion axles and sealed bearings to provide for a lower maintenance track. Components associated with the undercarriage do not require constant greasing and cleaning of the idler wheels.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 16, 2001Publication date: May 24, 2001Applicant: A.S.V., Inc.Inventors: Gary Lemke, Brad Lemke, Cary Safe, Edgar Hetteen
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Patent number: 6206492Abstract: Endless track laying work machines are provided with a pair of track laying assemblies positioned on opposite sides of the work machine. Each track laying assembly includes an endless rubber belt entrained around a drive wheel, an idler wheel, and a plurality of mid-rollers. The present mid-roller includes a rotatable member that is positioned between individual roller segments and the guide blocks that are positioned on the inner surface of the endless rubber belt. With the rotatable member in this position, the differential angular velocity between points of contact between the rubber belt and the mid-rollers is compensated for by rotating the rotatable member independent of the individual roller segments. Thus, increasing the life of the individual drive components.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 1999Date of Patent: March 27, 2001Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventor: Todd E. Moser