Adjustable Patents (Class 180/9.52)
  • Patent number: 11518453
    Abstract: A snowmobile has a rear suspension assembly including at least one slide rail, a plurality of idler wheels, a front suspension arm having first upper and lower ends, and a rear suspension arm having second upper and lower ends. The first upper end is connected to a tunnel of the snowmobile. The first lower end is selectively connected to the at least one slide rail. The first lower end is connectable to the at least one slide rail at first and second positions. The first position of the first lower end is vertically higher from a bottom surface of the at least one slide rail than the second position of the first lower end. The second upper end is connected to the tunnel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2022
    Assignee: BOMBARDIER RECREATIONAL PRODUCTS INC.
    Inventors: Bertrand Mallette, Jerome Chapdelaine
  • Patent number: 11124233
    Abstract: A skid-steer delivery autonomous ground vehicle has a drive train and suspension that aids in maneuverability. The AGV has six wheels, each of which is powered by its own motor. The AGV has features that diminish the dragging effect on the wheels, either by choice of wheel features or by taking weight off the front wheels during turning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2021
    Assignee: Amazon Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Nicolas Kurczewski, Ennio Claretti, Nicolas Hostein, Brett Skaloud, Andrew Stubbs
  • Patent number: 10124844
    Abstract: A system for supplying fluid within a work vehicle may generally include a track drive box including first and second inlet ports and an outlet port. The system may also include a first supply conduit in fluid communication with the first inlet port and a second supply conduit in fluid communication with the second inlet port. The first supply conduit may be configured to supply a working fluid to the track drive box and the second supply conduit may be configured to supply a pressurized fluid to the track drive box, wherein the pressurized fluid serves to pressurize an interior of the track drive box, Additionally, the system may include an evacuation conduit in fluid communication with the outlet port that is configured to receive the working fluid as it is expelled from the outlet port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2018
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventors: Jerry L. Brinkley, Bryan Nannet, Robert Muir
  • Patent number: 9821985
    Abstract: The invention relates to a crane having an undercarriage with a swivel connection and having a superstructure rotatably supported thereon via the swivel connection and comprising at least one boom system arranged at said superstructure and luffable about a luffing axis or a self-climbing tower slewing crane rotatably supported thereon via the swivel connection. In accordance with the invention, the undercarriage has a pot as a central component which, on the one hand, receives the swivel connection. Furthermore, however, the pivotable supports can also be pivotally connected to it. Side members are present at mutually oppositely disposed sides and at least one traveling gear can respectively connected to them with at least one degree of freedom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2017
    Assignee: Liebherr-Werk Ehingen GmbH
    Inventor: Hans-Dieter Willim
  • Patent number: 9803478
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a self-propelled construction machine, in particular a road milling machine, a recycler or a surface miner, comprising a machine frame 1 supported by a chassis 2 which comprises front and rear running gear 3, 4. A working device 5 is arranged on the machine frame 1 and comprises a working roller 17 for working the ground. Lifting devices 15, 16 are associated with the individual running gears 3, 4 and can each be retracted or extended for raising or lowering the running gears with respect to the machine frame. In addition, the construction machine comprises a control unit 20 for actuating the lifting devices 15, 16, which control unit comprises a lifting position measuring device 22 for detecting the lifting position of the lifting devices and a tilt detection device 23 for detecting the tilt of the machine frame 1 transversely to the working direction A of the construction machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2017
    Assignee: Wirtgen GmbH
    Inventors: René Müller, Sebastian Winkels, Cyrus Barimani
  • Patent number: 9694862
    Abstract: A work vehicle comprises a vehicle body, a work implement, a track frame, a sprocket, an idler, a plurality of small track rollers, and first and second large track rollers. The track frame comprises opposite first and second end sections, and opposite upper and lower sections. The sprocket and idler are rotatably mounted to the first and second end sections, respectively, to movably support an endless track. The small and large track rollers are rotatably mounted to the lower section between the sprocket and idler and are unmovable in vertical and horizontal directions of the track frame. The small track rollers are all disposed between the first and second large track rollers. Each small track roller defines a respective small track rolling surface having a respective first tread diameter and each large track roller defines a respective large track rolling surface having a respective second tread diameter greater than each respective first tread diameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2017
    Assignee: KOMATSU LTD.
    Inventors: William Schierschmidt, Masaru Kurita
  • Patent number: 8973688
    Abstract: A suspension system for cold planer with four tracks is disclosed. The suspension system includes a hydraulic cylinder for each track, an additional bypass valve for each hydraulic cylinder and an additional bypass valve that bypasses the operation of the front control valves that control the elevation of the front tracks during a cutting operation. During transport or roading of the cold planer, the bypass valves are energized by a controller and the energized bypass valves provide communication between the head ends of the left side cylinders and the head ends of the right side cylinders. During roading, the energized bypass valves also provide communication between the rod ends of the front cylinders and between the rod ends of the rear cylinders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Assignee: Caterpillar Paving Products Inc.
    Inventor: Craig M. Steffen
  • Patent number: 8783392
    Abstract: A tracked mobility device includes: a) a frame supporting a seat; b) a pair of track drives connected to the frame, with each track drive including a powered center drive wheel, a front roller, a rear roller, and a flexible track, with the center drive wheel having a diameter that is at least 50% greater than the diameter of either the front roller or the rear roller, and c) a rear wheel assembly connected to the frame, with the rear wheel assembly having three wheels sharing a common axle, with the diameter of the center rear wheel being at least 10% larger than the diameter of the two outer rear wheels; d) a source of power to power said center drive wheels; and e) a controller effective for controlling the speed and direction of rotation of each of the track drives.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Freedom One Mobility LLC
    Inventor: Travis Underwood
  • Patent number: 8727047
    Abstract: A tractor configuration includes a mainframe structure, a control station having a means of controlling the tractor, an undercarriage system having one left side and one right side track assembly, a wheel mechanism containing one or more wheels located forward of the track assemblies, a power train for forcing both track assemblies to travel at the same or different speeds, a controller responsible for exerting force to transfer vertical load back and forth between the front portion of the track assemblies and the wheel mechanism and controlling the amount of weight carried by the wheel mechanism. The controller causes or allows the wheel or wheels of the wheel mechanism to follow the tractor's curved path caused by track speed difference.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: CLAAS Industrietechnik GmbH
    Inventors: David C. Janzen, Ronald L. Satzler
  • Patent number: 8640797
    Abstract: An endless belt tensioner system adapted to apply a minimum tensioning force on a ground-contacting endless belt of a vehicle is provided, the minimum tensioning force being managed to prevent the endless belt to disengage from an operating configuration. A vehicle and a method of use thereof are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: L'Équipe Fabconcept Inc.
    Inventor: Marius Allaire
  • Patent number: 8573420
    Abstract: The invention relates to a crawler crane comprising two crawler supports (9) with rotating crawlers (8). Both crawler supports (9) are connected by a transversal bridge (10). A superstructure (3) of the crawler crane comprises at least one crane jib that can pivot about a vertical axis and is connected to the transversal bridge (10). A pivotable articulation connects the transversal bridge (19) in a pivotable manner to the crane superstructure (3). At least one of the crawler supports (9) is connected to the transversal bridge (10) by means of a double link (11). A lower link (12) of the double link (11) is articulated on the crawler support (9) by means of a crawler support lower pivotable axis (13) and on the transversal bridge (10) by means of a transversal bridge lower pivotable axis (14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Terex Cranes Germany GmbH
    Inventors: Ingo Nöske, Alfons Weckbecker, Werner Rutz
  • Patent number: 8573336
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Mylvaganam Arulraja, Michael S. Freberg, Leslie L. Weaver, Jr., Michael C. Layko, Jeffrey M. Parker, Michael Bottom
  • Publication number: 20130277125
    Abstract: A front suspension system for a track-type tractor includes a suspension saddle having first and second suspension arms pinned to the suspension saddle, the first and second suspension arms being connected to the machine tracks via first and second front idler respectively. Respective first and second hydraulic suspension assemblies support the first and second suspension arms, and a hydraulic suspension circuit fluidly links the first hydraulic suspension assembly to the second hydraulic suspension assembly such that a movement of either the first or the second hydraulic suspension assemblies causes an opposite movement of substantially the same magnitude in the other of the first and second hydraulic suspension assemblies, thereby allowing the first track and the second track of the track-type tractor to oscillate relative to one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2012
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: CATERPILLAR, INC.
    Inventor: Todd Moser
  • Patent number: 8540040
    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).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: GSE Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Glen Raymond Simula, Luke Stephen Luskin, David Jon McKinstry
  • Patent number: 8485288
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Klemm Bohrtechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Ralph Kaethner, Albert Clemens
  • Patent number: 8469124
    Abstract: An endless belt tensioner system adapted to dynamically apply a tensioning force on a ground-contacting endless belt of a vehicle is provided, the tensioning force being managed to prevent the endless belt to disengage from an operating configuration when the suspension is actuated. A vehicle and a method of use thereof are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: L 'Équipe Fabconcept Inc.
    Inventor: Marius Allaire
  • Publication number: 20130153310
    Abstract: A suspension system for cold planer with four tracks is disclosed. The suspension system includes a hydraulic cylinder for each track, an additional bypass valve for each hydraulic cylinder and an additional bypass valve that bypasses the operation of the front control valves that control the elevation of the front tracks during a cutting operation. During transport or roading of the cold planer, the bypass valves are energized by a controller and the energized bypass valves provide communication between the head ends of the left side cylinders and the head ends of the right side cylinders. During roading, the energized bypass valves also provide communication between the rod ends of the front cylinders and between the rod ends of the rear cylinders.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2011
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Applicant: CATERPILLAR PAVING PRODUCTS INC.
    Inventor: Craig M. Steffen
  • Patent number: 8430188
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Vermeer Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: Ronald S. Hansen
  • Patent number: 8371402
    Abstract: An endless belt tensioner system adapted to apply a tensioning force on a ground-contacting endless belt of a vehicle is provided, the tensioning force being substantially proportional to an endless belt drive force applied to the endless belt to move the vehicle. A vehicle and a method about the same are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: L'Equipe Fabconcept Inc.
    Inventor: Marius Allaire
  • Patent number: 8371403
    Abstract: A tracked mobility device includes: a) a pair of independent, self-supported track drives defining a planar ground contact area; b) a multi-directional wheel having a raised position above the plane of the ground contact area, and a lowered position below the plane of the ground contact area; and c) an actuator for moving the multi-directional wheel to either its raised or its lowered position. When the actuator lowers the multi-directional wheel, part of the planar ground contact area is raised from the ground without raising all of the planar ground contact area from the ground. Each track drive functions independently so that bumps along one track may be traversed without tilting the entire vehicle. Each track drive may be attached to the vehicle body with flexible mounts that allow each track drive to independently tilt upward or downward as the device moves on its tracks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: Travis Underwood
    Inventor: Travis Underwood
  • Publication number: 20120305321
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2010
    Publication date: December 6, 2012
    Applicant: ROLIC INVEST S.AR.L.
    Inventor: Klaus Wagger
  • Patent number: 8256540
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignees: Tadano Ltd., Tadano Mantis Corporation
    Inventor: Daniel James Copeland
  • Publication number: 20120183383
    Abstract: A method and apparatus is disclosed, for construction and operation of an all terrain polymorphic tracked vehicle. This invention extends and improves on the prior art disclosed in USPTO patent pending “A polymorphic tracked vehicle”, filed August 2009, USPTO application Ser. No. 12/540,391. The improvement concerns a mechanism and method of operation by which a track mechanism can be polymorphic, but can also distribute the weight of the vehicle over multiple supporting wheels. In contrast, in most configurations of the mechanism disclosed in application Ser. No. 12/540,391, the weight of the vehicle rests on just two wheels per track (i.e. on four wheels if the vehicles possesses a left track and a right track).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2011
    Publication date: July 19, 2012
    Inventor: Rustam Stolkin
  • Patent number: 8162083
    Abstract: Theme To provide a small-sized crawler device that can stably ride over bumps or steps or stairs. Means to Solve The crawler device includes a device body (1) having main crawlers (20) on its left and right and auxiliary crawlers (30) provided as auxiliary members at one end portion of the device body. Before the crawler device ascends a step or stairs with the auxiliary crawler (30) positioned backward, the controller (65) brings the auxiliary crawler (30) into a preparatory state in which the auxiliary crawler (30) is freely rotatable with respect to the main crawler (20) or the auxiliary crawler (30) is maintained in a position above a line extending longitudinally from the main crawler by a predetermined angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: Topy Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Hidekazu Iwaki, Shingo Tsukui, Seiji Oomura
  • Patent number: 8083014
    Abstract: In a first aspect, the invention is directed to an undercarriage for a tracked vehicle. The undercarriage includes a main frame including a frame body and an equalizer bar extending laterally on either side of a pivot connection with the frame body, a first track frame and a second track frame. A first front spherical bearing connects a first end of the equalizer bar and the front end of the first track frame. A second front spherical bearing connects a second end of the equalizer bar and the front end of the second track frame. A first rear spherical bearing connects the rear end of the main frame to the rear end of the first track frame. A second rear spherical bearing connects the rear end of the main frame to the rear end of the second track frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Inventor: Ronald Hall
  • Publication number: 20110174555
    Abstract: A crawler travel gear that can be applied to a crawler-mounted crane. The crawler travel gear includes a crawler carrier, rollers arranged at the crawler carrier and a crawler chain, with a respective adjustment mechanism provided in the front region and rear region of the crawler carrier for selectively adjusting the contact surface of the crawler carrier relative to an underlying surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2011
    Publication date: July 21, 2011
    Applicant: Liebherr-Werk Ehingen GmbH
    Inventor: Hans-Dieter WILLIM
  • Patent number: 7967087
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Caterpillar SARL
    Inventors: Mylvaganam Arulraja, Michael S. Freberg, Leslie L. Weaver, Jr., Michael C. Layko, Jeffrey M. Parker, Michael Bottom
  • Patent number: 7806209
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for reducing vibrational effects of track chain assembly catenary hang is disclosed. A work machine includes a pair of track roller assemblies one positioned on each side of the work machine. The vibration reducing apparatus and method includes repositioning undercarriage components to vary the catenary hang from one side of the work machine to the other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc
    Inventors: Michael R. Standish, James M. Hollister, Margaret M. Lamb, Roy L. Maguire, Thomas E. Oertley, Roger L. Recker, David F. Schaefer
  • Patent number: 7802645
    Abstract: A suspension assembly for a vehicle having an endless drive track is disclosed. The suspension assembly has a slide frame assembly and a rail extension assembly pivotably connected to a rear portion of the slide frame assembly and pivots about a first axis. The rail extension assembly is pivotable between a raised position and a lowered position with respect to the slide frame assembly. A spring biases the rail extension assembly toward the lowered position. The magnitude of the biasing force of the spring is adjustable. The rail extension assembly can be prevented from pivoting from the lowered position to the raised position independently of the magnitude of the biasing force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: Bombardier Recreational Products Inc.
    Inventors: Bertrand Mallette, Pascal Gagnon, Mario Cote
  • Patent number: 7770902
    Abstract: An in-arm suspension (12) is provided for actively controlling a suspension arm (20) mounted to a vehicle frame (14). The suspension arm (20) has a housing (60) in which the a compressible fluid strut (32) and a fluid control section (90) are enclosed. The compressible fluid strut (32) includes a cylinder (134) and a piston rod (136) which is urged to extend from within the cylinder (134) in response to fluid pressure applied to compressible fluid disposed within the cylinder (134). A damper piston (174) is mounted to an interior portion of the piston rod (136), and moves with the piston rod (136) to pass the compressible fluid through the damper piston 174 and attenuate bounce and rebound of the piston rod (136) within the cylinder (134). A damper lock (210) is mounted to the piston rod (136) for selectively preventing the flow of compressible fluid through the damper piston (174).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Horstman, Inc.
    Inventor: Leo W. Davis
  • Publication number: 20100084204
    Abstract: Theme To provide a small-sized crawler device that can stably ride over bumps or steps or stairs. Means to Solve The crawler device includes a device body (1) having main crawlers (20) on its left and right and auxiliary crawlers (30) provided as auxiliary members at one end portion of the device body. Before the crawler device ascends a step or stairs with the auxiliary crawler (30) positioned backward, the controller (65) brings the auxiliary crawler (30) into a preparatory state in which the auxiliary crawler (30) is freely rotatable with respect to the main crawler (20) or the auxiliary crawler (30) is maintained in a position above a line extending longitudinally from the main crawler by a predetermined angle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2008
    Publication date: April 8, 2010
    Applicant: TOPY KOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Hidekazu Iwaki, Shingo Tsukui, Seiji Oomura
  • Patent number: 7641007
    Abstract: The blade ratio of an articulated work vehicle with multiple tracks is adjusted by shifting a load from the weight of the vehicle toward the front or rear of one or more of the tracks. The load may be shifted through the actuation of a hydraulic cylinder that applies a biasing load between a frame on which a track frame is mounted and a front or rear portion of the track frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Daniel Dean Radke, James Arthur Nagorcka, Lyal Douglas Allen
  • Patent number: 7533741
    Abstract: Track frame assemblies wherein one assembly provides a multi-section sub-frame that supports a series of idler wheel suspensions. Each section is mounted to pivot laterally from stub axles longitudinally secured to a drive frame. In another assembly, resilient bushings support idler wheel suspension axles to the track frame. The track frame also supports a detachable track tensioner containing idler wheels that facilitate track removal and replacement. A detachable hub at a track drive sprocket/drum further enhances frame mounting. Elastomer shim and air bag assemblies also torsionally control and limit rotation of the track assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2009
    Inventor: Glen Brazier
  • Patent number: 7516805
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Billy R. Bedford, Frederick R. Brotherson, Mark J. Roeder
  • Patent number: 7503412
    Abstract: Concrete machine which is mainly composed of a chassis and of caterpillar drives, upon which the chassis is provided via arms, which arms can be adjusted in height, characterized in that the concrete machine is provided with a system for adjusting the chassis in height in relation to the arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2009
    Assignee: CMI Belgium, Naamloze Vennootschap
    Inventor: Casters François
  • Patent number: 7438143
    Abstract: A drilling machine includes a frame, a tower that is supported by the frame, two tracks for movement over the ground, at least four yokes that interconnect the frame and the two tracks, a plurality of hydraulic cylinders, a plurality of sensors, and a controller. The tower includes a drill string. Each yoke is connected to the frame and one of the tracks. Each hydraulic cylinder is movable in response to a control signal and connected to the frame and a yoke. Each sensor senses a parameter indicative of force and generates an output signal that represents the force. The controller receives the output signals from the sensors, determines a center of gravity of the drilling machine, and generates the control signals for the hydraulic cylinders based on the center of gravity. Each hydraulic cylinder is controlled to move to maintain the center of gravity within a boundary area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2008
    Assignee: Atlas Copco Drilling Solutions
    Inventors: Arnold R. Law, Ajay Kumar
  • Patent number: 7395890
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2008
    Assignee: the University of Western Ontario
    Inventor: Peter Visscher
  • Patent number: 7325634
    Abstract: A drilling machine includes a frame, two tracks, and a plurality of yokes interconnecting the frame and the tracks. Each yoke is pivotable with respect to the frame by the extension and retraction of a hydraulic cylinder. Each of a plurality of sensors senses a parameter indicative of force and generates a signal representing the force. A controller receives the force signals, and generates control signals to extend or retract the hydraulic cylinders when an associated force deviation for a hydraulic cylinder exceeds a predetermined magnitude.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2008
    Assignee: Atlas Copco Drilling Solutions
    Inventors: Arnold R. Law, Ajay Kumar
  • Patent number: 7237631
    Abstract: A work machine, and a work machine idler mounting assembly is provided, including a frame, a mounting member proximate an end of the frame, an idler support block adjacent the mounting member. At least one removeable spacer is positionable between the idler support block and the frame to adjust relative positions thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Richard E. Livesay, Glen A. Spindel
  • Patent number: 7226137
    Abstract: A track tensioning assembly for a track laying vehicle. The track tensioning assembly includes an idler plate assembly coupled to a hydraulic actuator at a first end and coupled to a front idler assembly at a second end. The hydraulic actuator is configured to apply a pressure on the front idler assembly with the idler plate assembly to achieve a desired tautness. The track tensioning assembly also includes a removable cross pin positioned to prevent loosening of track while in a first location or configured to allow removal of tracks while in a second location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Assignee: Clark Equipment Company
    Inventor: Corey L. Fornes
  • Patent number: 7131651
    Abstract: A chassis is described which is constructed of two lower side frames which at each end are provided with a wheel or caterpillar track. On each of the two lower side members, there is a horizontal bearing. Each of these bearings are connected to an upper vertical side member which at their upper end is connected to two parallel cross members through horizontal bearings for the development of a parallelogram connection. Between the lower and upper side members, there are two double-acting hydraulic cylinders. These can be connected in parallel in order to make a weight distribution possible. By means of a regulation valve between pressure side and suction side, respectively, on the double-acting hydraulic cylinders the upper part of the chassis can swing back and forth in the longitudinal direction of the side members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2006
    Inventor: Niels Kjaer Laursen
  • Patent number: 7004270
    Abstract: A suspension apparatus of a multi-axle vehicle capable of realizing high traveling stability is provided. For this purpose, the suspension apparatus forms a quadric link structure (31) by a vehicle body (9), a front link (21) with an upper end portion being connected to the vehicle body with a pin and a lower end portion being in a vicinity of a front axle, a rear link (22) with an upper end portion being connected to the vehicle body with a pin and a lower end portion located in a vicinity of a rear axle, and a connecting link (1) for connecting portions in vicinities of respective lower end portions of the front and rear links, and a side length at a side of the connecting link is made shorter than a side length at a vehicle body side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazutoshi Hori, Yasunari Suzuki, Takeo Ueda, Toshiyuki Hirata
  • Patent number: 6796391
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Assignee: Bauer Maschinen GmbH
    Inventor: Werner Harthauser
  • Patent number: 6761236
    Abstract: An axle mount device for mounting an axle to a snowmobile track suspension frame has a base portion and an adjuster portion. The base portion has an axis and a bore coincident with the axis. The adjuster portion is secured to the base portion asymmetrically with respect to the axis, and engages an opening in the frame. The axle mount may be moved between first and second positions to vary a position of the axle with respect to the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2004
    Assignee: Arctic Cat Inc.
    Inventor: Kirk Hibbert
  • Publication number: 20030168262
    Abstract: An axle mount device for mounting an axle to a snowmobile track suspension frame has a base portion and an adjuster portion. The base portion has an axis and a bore coincident with the axis. The adjuster portion is secured to the base portion asymmetrically with respect to the axis, and engages an opening in the frame. The axle mount may be moved between first and second positions to vary a position of the axle with respect to the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2002
    Publication date: September 11, 2003
    Applicant: ARCTIC CAT INC.
    Inventor: Kirk Hibbert
  • Patent number: 6609622
    Abstract: A combination bulldozer and pipelayer includes a front mounted blade, or scoop, and a side mounted pipelayer attachment. When operated as a bulldozer, a pair of endless track roller frames are free to oscillate up and down about a horizontal axis passing through the bulldozer's main frame for improved traction and grading characteristics, reduced stress on the tractor structure, and a more comfortable ride for the operator. When operated in the pipelayer mode, the track roller frames are locked in fixed position to the vehicle's main frame to provide a stable platform for lifting and transporting a heavy load such as sections of pipe. The side mounted pipelayer attachment includes a folding boom which can be stowed in a retracted position or extended to the use position by the operator using only the boom and load controls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2003
    Inventor: Raymond Forsyth
  • Patent number: 6595309
    Abstract: An 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 configures the endless track into a generally triangular shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Assignee: Redline Performance Products, Inc.
    Inventors: William M. Savage, Kent H. Harle
  • Patent number: 6547345
    Abstract: A track drive device for all terrain vehicle comprises a frame (14) able to be mounted on the side of a chassis (C) of a vehicle and carrying two main wheels (38, 42) and support wheels (40A, B, 40E) around which is wound a track (12). The frame (14) comprises a rear part (16) able to be fixed to the chassis (C) of the vehicle and carrying one (38) of the main wheels, and a front part in the form of an approximately horizontal oscillating beam (18) carrying the other main wheel (42) and at least one (40D, 40E) of the support wheels and mounted pivoting about a first transverse pivot (20) located at a lower level. The device also comprises an approximately horizontal suspension arm (52) arranged above the oscillating beam (18), linked to the latter by a connecting rod (64) and mounted pivoting around a second transverse pivot (24) arranged at an upper level approximately at the height of the chassis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: Otico
    Inventor: Olivier Phely
  • Patent number: 6478098
    Abstract: An apparatus as an after-market, upgrade kit constructed and arranged to be installed onto an coupled snowmobile suspension system that, when installed, provides for quick and easily accessible coupling adjustment. Specifically, the upgrade kit of the present invention is configured to be installed onto the Polaris® line of snowmobiles. The upgrade kit includes a shaft having an axis of rotation, a pair of coupling blocks, and an indexer plate. The coupling blocks are adapted to be fixedly connected relative to the axis of rotation at each end of the shaft so that a torque in the shaft will be transmitted to the coupling blocks. The coupling blocks have a plurality of sides corresponding to a plurality of positions of the coupling blocks, each of the sides being located at a different distance from the axis of the shaft when the coupling blocks are connected to the shaft. The indexer plate is adapted to engage one of the coupling blocks at a selected positions of the coupling blocks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Assignee: Bombardier Inc.
    Inventors: Alain Boivin, Denis Boivin
  • Patent number: 6401847
    Abstract: This invention includes an undercarriage support and adjustment system for a tracked vehicle having first and second elongated outwardly extending members coupled to the vehicle, a first undercarriage bearing support coupled to the vehicle between the first and second outwardly extending members, and an undercarriage bearing support member slidingly coupled to the outer ends of the two support members and having a second undercarriage bearing support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Assignee: Case Corporation
    Inventor: Thomas G. Lykken