Abstract: A dynamic track tension adjuster is connected between the body of a tracked vehicle and an arm-like axle member of the vehicle. The adjuster swings the arm-like member so that a wheel on the axle member engages the vehicle's track with differing force. The adjuster includes a cylinder with two pistons extending therefrom and a compressible fluid between the pistons. A motor fixed to the cylinder drives a gear train that includes a transfer gear connected to one of the pistons. A shaft co-axially fixed to the transfer gear threads with a rod such that the rod translates when the shaft rotates. Translation of the rod swings the axle member.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
October 23, 2000
Date of Patent:
August 13, 2002
Assignee:
The United States of America as represented by the Secretary
of the Army
Inventors:
Patrick J. Palonis, James A. Capouellez