Abstract: An autonomous guided vehicle comprising a platform adapted to carry a load thereon in a working position; a plurality of suspension devices connected to the platform, each suspension device having a sensor and an actuator; and a plurality of wheels associated with the suspension devices; wherein a first wheel is associated with a first suspension device such that the sensor of the first suspension device is adapted to provide a signal when a relative position of the first wheel and the platform is altered.

Abstract: A mobile farm implement includes a track assembly with a plurality of arms that are pivotally coupled to support idler wheels and bogie wheels such that the track assembly is able to better conform to the terrain when the implement is towed behind a tractor or otherwise moved.

Abstract: A fusion machine which can be top-loaded on very large polyolefin pipes and pipelines has jaws which consist of an upper half jaw and lower left and right complemental jaws which pivot on the half jaw. Left and right actuators connected between the complemental jaws and the half jaw operate in one direction to cause the complemental jaws to rotate to an opened condition in which the upper half jaw can be lowered onto and lifted from the pipes to be fused and in the other direction to cause the complemental jaws to rotate to a closed condition in which the pipes to be fused are gripped so substantially around their circumferences as to resist their deformation from round during manipulation by the machine. The top-loading machine minimizes the need for heavy equipment to load and unload pipe to and from the fusion machine.

Abstract: A drill rig with a steering system may include a substructure having a wheelhouse, a drill floor arranged atop the substructure, a mast extending upwardly and above the drill floor, and a steering system arranged within the wheelhouse. The steering system may include a wheel assembly comprising an electric motor configured for driving rotational motion of a wheel, a deployment device configuring for deploying the wheel assembly to carry the drill rig, and a steering mechanism configured for selective engagement with the wheel assembly and rotating the wheel assembly.

Abstract: A large-scale, high-mobility all-terrain vehicle is equipped with at least two articulated front legs and at least two articulated rear legs. Each articulated leg is connected to the vehicle structure about two mutually orthogonal axes to allow a variation of the track width distance between each pair of track assemblies and a variation of the height of the vehicle structure with respect to each track assembly. Each track assembly is connected to the respective leg about a horizontal transverse axis and about a vertical axis, and about a longitudinal axis. The vehicle structure has a front module and a rear module articulated about a longitudinal axis and a driving cabin that can be rotated downwards to allow ample visibility of the ground in front. The track assemblies are connected to the respective articulated legs by quick coupling devices.

Abstract: A multidirectional locomotive module with omnidirectional bending that is compliant along multiple axis is provided. The locomotive module includes, (A) a first part that includes (i) one or more circular rigid components which are coupled using a two degree of freedom joint, (ii) bending actuator that actuates the two degree of freedom joint enabling bending of the multidirectional locomotive module to an angle ranging from 0 to 90 degrees about a Z-axis in a direction to achieve surface compliance with an external surface, and (B) a second part that is elongated in shape with circular cross-section along a surface length and hemispherical in shape an end portion with a surface that is formed by a power transmission sprocket chain and an arrangement of curved components enabling sideways rolling of the multidirectional locomotive module, also enabling wheeled and legged locomotion in vertical position.

Abstract: A steerable drive axle for a tracked work vehicle may generally include an axle body extending lengthwise between first and second ends and an axle support assembly pivotally coupled to one of the first end or the second end of the axle body. The axle support assembly may include an inboard support member configured to extend at least partially along an inboard side of a drive wheel of the tracked work vehicle, an outboard support member configured to extend at least partially along an outboard side of the drive wheel, and a non-rotating planetary carrier extending lengthwise between an inboard end and an outboard end. The inboard end may be coupled to the inboard support member and the outboard end may be coupled to the outboard support member. Additionally, the non-rotating planetary carrier may be configured to support a plurality of planetary gears between the inboard and outboard ends.

Abstract: Gantry crane vehicle for performing one or more tasks in a photovoltaic array and method thereof. The gantry crane vehicle includes one or more base plates, and one or more tracks above the one or more base plates. Additionally, the vehicle includes one or more gantry assemblies configured to slide along the one or more tracks, and one or more first support trusses configured to support the one or more tracks above the one or more base plates. Moreover, the vehicle includes one or more second support trusses connected to at least some of the one or more first support trusses, and one or more storage cabinets located on the one or more base plates. The one or more storage cabinets include one or more top surfaces and one or more side surfaces, and the one or more top surfaces are located below the one or more tracks.

Abstract: Tracked piste grooming vehicle for maintenance and shaping of snowy terrain, including a crawler chassis which includes, on each side of the chassis, a respective drive wheel, at least four running wheels and a tension wheel, all enclosed by a crawler chain, wherein each running wheel is mounted on a chassis frame in a pretensioned manner by a suspension. Each side of the chassis includes five respective running wheels, with the suspensions thereof having a different pretensioning distribution considered over a vehicle length.

Abstract: A drill rig with a steering system may include a substructure having a wheelhouse, a drill floor arranged atop the substructure, a mast extending upwardly and above the drill floor, and a steering system arranged within the wheelhouse. The steering system may include a wheel assembly comprising an electric motor configured for driving rotational motion of a wheel, a deployment device configuring for deploying the wheel assembly to carry the drill rig, and a steering mechanism configured for selective engagement with the wheel assembly and rotating the wheel assembly.

Abstract: Longitudinal member (10) for amphibious undercarriage, which internally defines one or more air chambers (2) for its own buoyancy and externally at least one sliding trail (4), wherein the longitudinal member (10) comprises one or more tracks (6, 6?), which develop around the sliding trail (4) and comprising chains (8, 12) flanked to each other and slidably mounted, each chain (8, 12) comprising concatenated links (14, 16), forged in one piece, fluid-powered motor means, attached to the longitudinal member (10) and configured to promote the sliding of the track (6, 6?) or plurality of tracks through the chains (8, 12). The forged links (14,16) are forged in one piece. The invention further relates to an undercarriage and an amphibious vehicle.

Abstract: An actuator assembly for an implement includes a pivot shaft configured to be received in a tubular member rigidly coupled to an implement frame, configured to pivot relative to the tubular member about a generally horizontal pitch axis, and configured to support a track assembly of the implement and to enable the track assembly to pivot about the generally horizontal pitch axis. The actuator assembly also includes an actuator anchor disposed on the pivot shaft. Further, the actuator assembly includes an actuator having a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end. The actuator is coupled to the actuator anchor at the first longitudinal end, and the actuator is configured to be coupled to a track assembly frame of the track assembly at the second longitudinal end. Moreover, the actuator is configured to extend and retract to pivotally steer the track assembly about a generally vertical steering axis.

Abstract: A mobile farm implement includes a track assembly with a plurality of arms that are pivotally coupled to support idler wheels and bogie wheels such that the track assembly is able to better conform to the terrain when the implement is towed behind a tractor or otherwise moved.

Abstract: The invention relates to a positioning arrangement for fitting an interchangeable milling assembly of a preset working width below the vertically adjustable chassis of a road milling machine, which chassis is carried on track-laying units. A vehicle carried on a plurality of wheels has a unit for receiving the milling assembly. The positioning arrangement has a handling chassis which can be lengthened in the longitudinal direction and to which the wheels are fixed. In a lowered position, the positioning arrangement, with the milling assembly resting on it, can be driven below the chassis of the road milling machine. In a raised position, the milling assembly can be fitted to the road milling machine.

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: A mobile farm implement includes a track assembly with a plurality of arms that are pivotally coupled to support idler wheels and bogie wheels such that the track assembly is able to better conform to the terrain when the implement is towed behind a tractor or otherwise moved.

Abstract: A gear reducer comprising a worm and a worm gear assembly, in turn comprising a worm gear, which is connected/disconnected to/from a drive shaft by means of a torque limiter mounted on this latter. The gear reducer is characterized in that the drive shaft and the torque limiter are comprised in a cartridge which can be extracted/inserted from/in a cavity obtained in the worm gear assembly according to an axial direction and in accordance with two opposite senses, without the need to disassemble the worm.

Abstract: An underwater trenching apparatus comprises at least one trenching tool; a lifting attachment point configured for attachment of a lifting means for lowering the trenching apparatus to, or raising the trenching apparatus from, its location of operation; at least two steerable endless track units for transmitting tractive effort to move the underwater trenching apparatus in use; and for each steerable endless track unit, a first mounting arrangement permitting rotation of the track unit about a vertical axis, and a first actuator configured to move the track unit about the vertical axis, and control means configured to control the action of the actuator. In alternative forms, in addition to, or alternative to the steerable endless track units, the apparatus includes height adjustment means for adjusting the vertical spacing between the main body portion and the respective endless tracks; and control means configured to control the action of the height adjustment means.

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 construction vehicle includes first and second track assemblies. The track assemblies each include an inner portion, and outer portion and a middle portion between the inner portion and the outer portion. An adjustment mechanism is pivotably coupled to the middle portions of the first and second track assemblies. The adjustment mechanism extends and retracts along a width axis to adjust a distance between the first and second track assemblies. The width of the first and second track assemblies can determine an overall width of the construction vehicle.

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: Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a rollover protection cab. In one embodiment, a rollover protection cab for a construction vehicle includes a structural frame defining cabin space for a vehicle operator. The structural frame is operable to substantially maintain the cabin space while withstanding a crushing load greater than or equal to twenty tons. The cab further includes a window; a door; a seat disposed in the cabin space; and controls for operating the vehicle disposed in the cabin space.

Abstract: A ski slope snow groomer having a frame; two wheel assemblies on opposite sides of the frame; two tracks wound respectively about the two wheel assemblies; a variable-configuration shock absorber assembly connected to the wheel assemblies and the frame and configured to adjust the wheel assemblies; and a control assembly configured to acquire a signal indicating an operating state of the snow groomer, and to adjust the shock absorber assembly as a function of the operating state signal.

Abstract: A machine is provided. The machine has a forward direction of travel and includes a frame, at least one lift arm, a first torsion axle assembly, an undercarriage, and an endless track. The lift arm is pivotally attached to the frame. The first torsion axle assembly is attached to the frame and includes a first torsion arm, a first torsion shaft, and a first axle, with the first torsion shaft and the first axle extending from the first torsion arm. The undercarriage is attached to the first torsion axle assembly and the endless track encircles the undercarriage. One of the first torsion shaft and the first axle is attached to the frame and the other of the first torsion shaft and the first axle is attached to the undercarriage. The first torsion arm extends upward from the frame at an angle between 90 and 180 degrees from the forward direction of travel.

Abstract: The invention relates to a multi-purpose ground vehicle (10) that may serve as a platform (12) for carrying a payload (14). The vehicle has a chassis (16) and a suspension (18) mounted to the chassis (16) for varying ride height and for influencing a response of the chassis (16) to underlying terrain. Track modules (22, 24, 26, 28) are associated for the suspension. These modules (22, 24, 26, 28) can be reoriented independently of each other. Preferably, at least some of the track modules (22, 24, 26, 28) include a band track (38) that circumscribe one or more wheels (30, 32) that are associated with a given track module (22, 24, 26, 28).

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: A drilling device, comprising a chassis, two undercarriage units which are arranged laterally on the chassis and supported in a pivotable manner, two oscillating cylinders for pivoting the undercarriage units relative to the chassis, with an oscillating cylinder being assigned to each undercarriage unit, and hydraulic lines which are arranged on the oscillating cylinders for actuation of the oscillating cylinders, wherein the hydraulic lines of the two oscillating cylinders are connected to one another in order to pivot the undercarriage units in opposite directions. A safety device to be provided for line breakage safety on at least one hydraulic line for each oscillating cylinder, with each safety device having at least one remote-controlled stop valve for blocking the respective hydraulic line in the case of line breakage, and in that a remote-control device is provided for simultaneously opening the stop valves during normal operation.

Abstract: A paving machine for spreading, leveling and finishing concrete having a main frame, center module, bolsters laterally movably, and a crawler track associated with respective aft and forward ends of the bolsters. A bolster swing leg for each crawler track supports an upright jacking column. A worm gear drive permits rotational movements of the crawler track and the jacking column. A hinge bracket is interposed between each swing leg and a surface of the bolsters to enable pivotal movements of the swing leg. A length-adjustable holder engages the pivot pin on the hinge bracket and pivotally engages the swing leg. The holder permits pivotal motions of the swing leg in its length-adjustable configuration and prevents substantially any motion of the swing leg in its fixed-length configuration. A feedback loop cooperates with transducers keeping the crawler tracks position. The paving machine can be reconfigured into a narrowed transport configuration.

Abstract: A serpentine robotic crawler is disclosed. The robotic crawler can include a first frame having a first continuous track rotatably supported by the first frame, a second frame having a second continuous track rotatably supported by the second frame, and a linkage arm coupling the first and second frames together in tandem. The linkage arm can be movable about a first lateral axis associated with the first frame, a second lateral axis associated with the second frame, and at least two longitudinal axes. The longitudinal axes can be oriented by movement of the linkage arm about the first lateral axis and/or the second lateral axis. Movement about the first lateral axis and the second lateral axis can facilitate or provide exposure of leading and trailing ends of each continuous track.

Abstract: A central endless drive track is disposed below the seat of a snowmobile. At least two left wheels are operatively connected to a left track frame disposed forwardly of the seat. A left track engages the left wheels. A left brake is connected to the left track frame and selectively engages one of a first left wheel and the left track to brake the left track. At least two right wheels are operatively connected to a right track frame disposed forwardly of the seat. A right track is disposed around the right wheels. A right brake is connected to the right track frame and selectively engages one of a first right wheel and the right track to brake the right track. A brake lever causes the left and right brakes to brake the left and right tracks respectively.

Abstract: A mobile machine includes a frame and a support system for supporting the frame from a ground surface underlying the support system. The support system may include a swing member pivotally engaged to the frame. The support system may also include journal structure rigidly attached to the swing member. The support system may further include a strut engaged to the journal structure in a manner allowing rotation of the strut relative to the journal structure about a central axis of the strut. Additionally, the support system may include a ground-engaging component mounted to the strut, the ground-engaging component being configured to move along the ground surface. The support system may also include a steering actuator engaged to the frame and the strut to control rotation of the strut about its central axis and thereby control a steering angle of the ground-engaging device relative to the frame.

Abstract: Embodiments of an all-terrain vehicle for ski track setting, military applications, gardening, etc are described herein which include a rear section having a power train and a first set of drive wheels coupled to the power train so as to be driven thereby, a front section having a drive train and a second set of wheels coupled to the drive train so as to be driven thereby; and a universal coupler that attaches the front and rear sections together and that allows free controlled movement therebetween. The drive train of the front section is coupled to the power train so as to be driven thereby. The front section includes a passenger compartment having user controls therein. Tracks are mounted on both set of wheels.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is disclosed, for construction and operation of an all terrain polymorphic tracked vehicle. The invention improves on the prior art by providing a mechanism whereby it is possible to vary the shapes of the tracks during operation of the vehicle. This capability facilitates negotiating obstacles and rough terrain, enables such vehicles to climb stairs or similar obstacles, and also enables self leveling of the vehicle on inclined terrain.

Abstract: A retainer cap assembly for attaching a track assembly to a vehicle includes a housing and at least two latch plates disposed in the housing, pivotable about a common pivot axis, between a locked and an unlocked position. A lock bar is rotatably supported on the housing, wherein the lock bar rotates about an axis perpendicular to the pivot axis of the latch plates, so as to be selectively engaged with both of the latch plates to prevent the latch plates from rotating on the pivot axis when the latch plates are in a locked position and disengaged with both of the latch plates to allow the latch plates to rotate on the pivot axis when the latch plates are in an unlocked position.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A robotic system that can have a body and four flippers is described. Any or all of the flippers can be rotated. The flippers can have self-cleaning tracks. The tracks can be driven or passive. The robotic system can be controlled by, and send audio and/or video to and/or from, a remote operator control module. The methods of using and making the robotic system are also described.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: An automated stringline installation system includes a vehicle, a 3D control system, at least partly carried by the vehicle, for determining location information, and an adjustable arm assembly, mounted on the vehicle, that identifies the location of a relative point in a stringline installation using the location information determined by the 3D control system. The adjustable arm assembly includes an operational arm having a proximal end and a distal end, a string, dispensed from the operational arm, for use in a stringline installation, and a sensor used to determine information pertaining to the location of the distal end of the operational arm assembly relative to the proximal end of the operational arm.

Abstract: A serpentine robotic crawler capable of multiple movement moves is disclosed. The serpentine robotic crawler includes a plurality of frame units, coupled together by at least one actuated linkage. Each frame unit includes a continuous track, enabling forward movement of the serpentine robotic crawler. The at least one actuated linkage has at least 7 degrees of movement freedom, enabling the serpentine robotic crawler to adopt a variety of poses.

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: A machine is provided. The machine has a forward direction of travel and includes a frame, at least one lift arm, a first torsion axle assembly, an undercarriage, and an endless track. The lift arm is pivotally attached to the frame. The first torsion axle assembly is attached to the frame and includes a first torsion arm, a first torsion shaft, and a first axle, with the first torsion shaft and the first axle extending from the first torsion arm. The undercarriage is attached to the first torsion axle assembly and the endless track encircles the undercarriage. One of the first torsion shaft and the first axle is attached to the frame and the other of the first torsion shaft and the first axle is attached to the undercarriage. The first torsion arm extends upward from the frame at an angle between 90 and 180 degrees from the forward direction of travel.

Abstract: A transporter having a plurality of track-axle assemblies. The track axle assemblies have independent suspension, self-loading, and on-center axle rotation capability. Each of the track axle assemblies include a cylinder housing and hydraulic piston and first and second track units connected on opposing sides of the axle frame.

Abstract: The moving carrier which sticks to the surface is provided with easy transverse movements on the surface. The moving carrier has at least two sets of driving wheels or one set of caterpillar on each of its right and the left sides relative to its traveling direction. One of the driving wheels is situated in the vicinity of the center of the sticking force; and another of the driving wheels is situated away from the center of the sticking force. The moving carrier can pivot at contact area as the pivot axis; at the contact area, one of the driving wheels situated in the vicinity of the center of the sticking force is contacted with the surface; and one of the moving units is driven and another moving units is not driven.

Abstract: A serpentine robotic crawler capable of multiple movement moves is disclosed. The serpentine robotic crawler includes a plurality of frame units, coupled together by at least one actuated linkage. Each frame unit includes a continuous track, enabling forward movement of the serpentine robotic crawler. The at least one actuated linkage has at least 7 degrees of movement freedom, enabling the serpentine robotic crawler to adopt a variety of poses.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a rollover protection cab. In one embodiment, a rollover protection cab for a construction vehicle includes a structural frame defining cabin space for a vehicle operator. The structural frame is operable to substantially maintain the cabin space while withstanding a crushing load greater than or equal to twenty tons. The cab further includes a window; a door; a seat disposed in the cabin space; and controls for operating the vehicle disposed in the cabin space.

Abstract: A tread assembly has front and rear main idler wheels supported by a frame. An assembly is provided to permit the front idler wheels to pivot laterally as the cart encounters uneven ground, in order to improve weight distribution across the tread and the idler wheels. The rear idler wheel also has an assembly to permit the rear idler wheel to pivot laterally. An alignment feature is incorporated into the front idler wheel assembly to permit adjustment of the alignment of the front idler wheel relative to the rear idler wheel. A tensioning mechanism is provided at the rear idler wheel to maintain the tread in tension. A bogie wheel structure is pivotally connected to the frame and positioned between the front and rear idler wheels.

Abstract: A construction machine (1) with a machine frame (2) and lifting columns (8) carrying crawler track units (4). The lifting columns (8) include consoles (10) coupled in pairs to the machine frame (2) by articulations (20, 22, 24, 26) and a coupling rod (18). The mutual distance of the articulations (20, 24; 22, 26) on a console (10) is of a length and/or the coupling rod (18) is of a shape that, when the crawler track units (4) swivel between limit positions of a swivel gear (14), the coupling rod (18) maintains a distance to the articulations (20, 22) facing the machine frame and/or to the lifting columns (8) over a swivelling angle range in excess of 90°, starting from the working position. The swivel gear (14) effects both the steering and the swivelling movements respectively in and from a transport position (5) to the working position and back.

Abstract: A propulsion system is for a road milling machine with a rotatable cutter drum (3). The system includes four crawler assemblies (12) movably coupled with the mainframe so as to define front and rear, and left and right, pairs of crawler assemblies. Four steering actuators (14) are each coupled with a separate crawler assembly and each angularly displaces the crawler about a vertical axis (12a). A first pump (16A) is fluidly coupled with the left pair of crawlers and a second pump (16B) is fluidly coupled with the right pair of crawlers. A control (20) is configured to selectively operate the four actuators in a plurality of different steering modes, one steering mode being a circle steer mode, and to operate the two pumps such that one of the left and right pairs of crawlers are drivable by the first pump in one direction while the other pair of crawlers are drivable in an opposing direction.

Abstract: An equalizer bar for a tracked vehicle is connected to the track roller frames via an arrangement comprising a pin which is swivel ably mounted to the equalizer bar and held rigidly by the track roller frame. The pin is positively held by the track roller frame, for example by channels in which the pin sits such that the side load is at least partially absorbed by the channel walls rather than the fasteners. The fasteners are located such that they experience minimal side load and aid a positive location of the pin in the channels.