Abstract: A traction device for wheeled vehicles comprises a frame for securing to a wheel of a vehicle; a grip enclosure operably secured to the frame; a grip assembly radially slidably received within the grip enclosure; and an actuator secured to the frame for extending and retracting the grip assembly in the radial direction of the wheel. The grip assembly includes a flexible outer end portion adapted to automatically follow substantially the peripheral cross-sectional shape of the tire when in the extended position. The grip enclosure includes a guide portion adapted to receive and straighten the flexible outer end portion when the grip assembly is in the retracted position. A sprocket chain is operably secured to the flexible outer end of the grip assembly. It provides rigidity to the flexible outer end in the plane of rotation of the tire and flexibility in the transverse direction into the plane of the tire.

Abstract: A carrier including one or more guide tracks, an endless positioning chain associated with each guide track for supporting a payload item, and one or more drive motors for moving the chains in unison with respect to the guide tracks to move a payload item toward an ejection station. A fairing may be mounted in association with the guide tracks. The guide tracks encircle the aircraft fuselage and are maintained under sufficient tension to apply a radial compressive force to the fuselage for securing them thereto. The guide tracks are laterally rigid but are flexible radially to conform to a range of fuselage contours when subjected to a tensile force. The guide tracks thus may be secured to different aircraft in order to temporarily transform the aircraft into a military payload carrier, with minimal modification. Following military employment, the aircraft may be refurbished for non-military usage by removal of the carrier.