Abstract: A track apparatus of the type mountable on a rotatable axle of a vehicle is provided with a frame having excellent rigidity. The frame, which is preferably of unique uni-body construction, includes first and second portions that define a drive wheel receipt well therebetween for receiving the drive wheel of the track apparatus.

Abstract: A drive wheel is provided for mounting on a rotatable axle of a vehicle for driving a continuous flexible track. The flexible track includes an inner surface having a plurality of lugs and terminating at terminal surfaces. The drive wheel includes a central hub mountable on the axle of the vehicle for rotational movement therewith. First and second side-surfaces extend radially from the central hub and an outer rim interconnects the radial outer edges of the side-surfaces. It is intended that the terminal surfaces of the lugs engage the outer rim of the drive wheel such that the lugs are supported when the flexible track is driven by the drive wheel.

Abstract: A tensioning device is provided for maintaining the tension on a continuous flexible track of a track apparatus. The track apparatus includes an idler wheel which engages the flexible track and which is movable between a first non-deflected position and a second deflected position. A dampening mechanism extends between an idler axle which supports the idler wheel and the frame of the track apparatus in order to exert a force on the idler axle to urge the idler wheel towards the non-deflected position. The dampening mechanism progressively increases the force on the idler axle as the idler wheel moves towards the deflected position.

Abstract: A drive wheel engaged with flexible track of track apparatus mountable on a vehicle axle, the drive wheel including a peripheral portion which, between radially-extending drive members, has outwardly-facing lug-engagement surfaces in position for engagement with the distal surfaces of the track lugs, to extend the useful life of flexible track. Preferred embodiments have spaces facilitating removal of debris. Certain preferred lug-engaging surfaces are provided by peripherally-spaced cross-members. The drive wheel is preferably free of side structure, allowing track lugs to adjust precise positions of engagement with lug-engagement surfaces.

Abstract: A drive wheel engaged with flexible track of track apparatus mountable on a vehicle axle, the drive wheel including a peripheral portion which, between radially-extending drive members, has outwardly-facing lug-engagement surfaces in position for engagement with the distal surfaces of the track lugs, to extend the useful life of flexible track. Preferred embodiments have spaces facilitating removal of debris. Certain preferred lug-engaging surfaces are provided by peripherally-spaced cross-members. The drive wheel is preferably free of side structure, allowing track lugs to adjust precise positions of engagement with lug-engagement surfaces.

Abstract: A track apparatus is provided for mounting on a rotatable axle of a vehicle. The track apparatus includes a flexible track having an upper length and a ground-engaging lower length. A drive wheel is mountable to the rotatable axle so as to drive the flexible track in response to rotation of the axle. Leading and trailing idler assemblies are attached to the frame. Each idler assembly includes a non-pneumatic idler wheel having a plurality of voids therein. In addition, a bogie assembly is also supported by the frame. The bogie assembly includes a non-pneumatic bogie wheel having a plurality of voids therein. The idler wheels and the bogie wheels have increased dimensional reliability and provide shock absorption and self-cleaning features to the track apparatus.

Abstract: A drive wheel mounted on a rotatable axle of a vehicle is provided for driving a continuous flexible track. The drive wheel includes a central hub mountable on the axle for rotational movement therewith. First and second rim walls extend radially from the central hub and define a circumferentially extending void in the drive wheel. A plurality of circumferentially spaced rollers are rotatably supported in the void for engaging a portion of the track.

Abstract: A compact single shaft gas turbine engine includes a radial compressor and a radial turbine mounted for rotation about a central axis and an axially inline regenerator disposed forward of the turbine. A highly efficient engine configuration minimizes energy loss along an improved gas flow path while permitting the engine to be mounted on a standard 22 inch wide farming tractor frame.