WO2014138931A1 - Chenille pour la traction d'un véhicule hors route - Google Patents

Chenille pour la traction d'un véhicule hors route Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2014138931A1
WO2014138931A1 PCT/CA2014/000262 CA2014000262W WO2014138931A1 WO 2014138931 A1 WO2014138931 A1 WO 2014138931A1 CA 2014000262 W CA2014000262 W CA 2014000262W WO 2014138931 A1 WO2014138931 A1 WO 2014138931A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
track
elastomeric material
engaging
cores
periphery
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/CA2014/000262
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Slim FRIKHA
Marc FAVRE
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Camso Inc
Original Assignee
Camoplast Solideal Inc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Camoplast Solideal Inc filed Critical Camoplast Solideal Inc
Publication of WO2014138931A1 publication Critical patent/WO2014138931A1/fr
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
    • B62D—MOTOR VEHICLES; TRAILERS
    • B62D55/00—Endless track vehicles
    • B62D55/08—Endless track units; Parts thereof
    • B62D55/18—Tracks
    • B62D55/20—Tracks of articulated type, e.g. chains
    • B62D55/202—Wheel engaging parts; Wheel guides on links
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
    • B62D—MOTOR VEHICLES; TRAILERS
    • B62D55/00—Endless track vehicles
    • B62D55/08—Endless track units; Parts thereof
    • B62D55/18—Tracks
    • B62D55/24—Tracks of continuously flexible type, e.g. rubber belts
    • B62D55/244—Moulded in one piece, with either smooth surfaces or surfaces having projections, e.g. incorporating reinforcing elements
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
    • B62D—MOTOR VEHICLES; TRAILERS
    • B62D55/00—Endless track vehicles
    • B62D55/08—Endless track units; Parts thereof
    • B62D55/18—Tracks
    • B62D55/24—Tracks of continuously flexible type, e.g. rubber belts
    • B62D55/253—Tracks of continuously flexible type, e.g. rubber belts having elements interconnected by one or more cables or like elements

Definitions

  • the invention relates generally to tracks for providing traction to off-road vehicles.
  • Certain off-road vehicles including industrial vehicles such as construction vehicles (e.g., excavators, bulldozers, loaders, etc.), agricultural vehicles (e.g., harvesters, combines, tractors, etc.), and forestry vehicles (e.g., feller-bunchers, tree chippers, knuckleboom loaders, etc.), military vehicles (e.g., combat engineering vehicles (CEVs), etc.), snowmobiles, and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), for example, may be equipped with elastomeric endless tracks which enhance their traction and floatation on soft, slippery and/or irregular grounds (e.g., soil, mud, sand, ice, snow, etc.) on which they operate.
  • construction vehicles e.g., excavators, bulldozers, loaders, etc.
  • agricultural vehicles e.g., harvesters, combines, tractors, etc.
  • forestry vehicles e.g., feller-bunchers, tree chippers, knuck
  • An elastomeric endless track comprises elastomeric material (e.g., rubber) and reinforcements embedded in the elastomeric material.
  • the track typically includes a layer of longitudinal reinforcing cables (e.g., metallic cords) to reinforce it in tension.
  • transversal reinforcements may also be embedded to impart transversal rigidity to the track and possibly interact with wheels (e.g., a drive wheel and/or roller wheels) around which the track is mounted.
  • the track when used on a construction vehicle, the track may comprise transversal metallic cores comprising projections on its inner side that interact with one or more of the wheels around which the track is disposed to guide and/or drive the track.
  • the track's reinforcements may cause certain issues. For example, these reinforcements may have a significant influence on the track's cost.
  • metallic reinforcements such as transversal metallic cores and longitudinal metallic cables may represent an important part of the track's cost, given metal prices.
  • the reinforcements may dictate to some extent an amount of elastomeric material included in the track (e.g., a thickness of the track), which also impacts the track's cost.
  • the elastomeric material in different regions of the track is subject to different conditions.
  • the elastomeric material of the track's periphery, including its tread may wear faster and/or be more prone to cutting or tearing than the elastomeric material inside the track's carcass, which is unexposed to external conditions.
  • the same or similar elastomeric material may be used in these different regions. This may have undesirable consequences in certain situations.
  • a track for traction of an off-road vehicle is mountable around a track-engaging assembly comprising a plurality of wheels.
  • the plurality of wheels includes a drive wheel for driving the track.
  • the track comprises an inner surface for facing the track- engaging assembly, a ground-engaging outer surface for engaging the ground, and elastomeric material allowing the track to flex around the track-engaging assembly.
  • the track also comprises a chain embedded in the elastomeric material.
  • the chain comprises a plurality of wheel-engaging links for interacting with at least one of the wheels.
  • a track for traction of an off-road vehicle is mountable around a track-engaging assembly comprising a plurality of wheels.
  • the plurality of wheels includes a drive wheel for driving the track.
  • the track comprises an inner surface for facing the track- engaging assembly, a ground-engaging outer surface for engaging the ground, and elastomeric material allowing the track to flex around the track-engaging assembly.
  • the track also comprises a chain embedded in the elastomeric material.
  • the chain comprises a plurality of wheel-engaging links for interacting with at least one of the wheels and a cable linking the wheel-engaging links.
  • a track for traction of an off-road vehicle is mountable around a track-engaging assembly comprising a plurality of wheels.
  • the plurality of wheels includes a drive wheel for driving the track.
  • the track comprises an inner surface for facing the track- engaging assembly, a ground-engaging outer surface for engaging the ground, and elastomeric material allowing the track to flex around the track-engaging assembly.
  • the track also comprises a cable extending along a length of the track.
  • the cable comprises a first longitudinal end portion and a second longitudinal end portion that are secured to one another.
  • a track for traction of an off-road vehicle there is provided.
  • the track is mountable around a track-engaging assembly comprising a plurality of wheels.
  • the plurality of wheels includes a drive wheel for driving the track.
  • the track is elastomeric to be flexible around the track- engaging assembly.
  • the track comprises peripheral elastomeric material forming at least part of a periphery of the track.
  • the periphery of the track comprises an inner side for facing the track-engaging assembly, a ground-engaging outer side for engaging the ground, and a pair of lateral edges defining a width of the track.
  • the track also comprises internal elastomeric material located away from the periphery of the track.
  • the peripheral elastomeric material has a superior quality than the internal elastomeric material.
  • a track for traction of an off-road vehicle The track is mountable around a track-engaging assembly comprising a plurality of wheels.
  • the plurality of wheels includes a drive wheel for driving the track.
  • the track is elastomeric to be flexible around the track- engaging assembly.
  • the track comprises peripheral elastomeric material forming at least part of a periphery of the track.
  • the periphery of the track comprises an inner side for facing the track-engaging assembly, a ground-engaging outer side for engaging the ground, and a pair of lateral edges defining a width of the track.
  • the track also comprises internal elastomeric material located away from the periphery of the track.
  • the peripheral elastomeric material has a greater resistance to wear than the internal elastomeric material.
  • a track for traction of an off-road vehicle The track is mountable around a track-engaging assembly comprising a plurality of wheels.
  • the plurality of wheels includes a drive wheel for driving the track.
  • the track is elastomeric to be flexible around the track- engaging assembly.
  • the track comprises peripheral elastomeric material forming at least part of a periphery of the track.
  • the periphery of the track comprises an inner side for facing the track-engaging assembly, a ground-engaging outer side for engaging the ground, and a pair of lateral edges defining a width of the track.
  • the track also comprises internal elastomeric material located away from the periphery of the track.
  • the peripheral elastomeric material has a greater resistance to rupture than the internal elastomeric material.
  • a track for traction of an off-road vehicle is mountable around a track-engaging assembly comprising a plurality of wheels.
  • the wheels include a drive wheel for driving the track.
  • the track comprises an inner surface for facing the track-engaging assembly and a ground-engaging outer surface for engaging the ground.
  • the track comprises elastomeric material allowing the track to flex around the track- engaging assembly.
  • the track comprises a plurality of cores embedded in the elastomeric material, spaced apart in a longitudinal direction of the track, and extending transversally to the longitudinal direction of the track. Each core comprises a channel extending through the core.
  • the track comprises a plurality of cables passing through the channel of each of the cores and providing a bulk of a tensile strength of the track.
  • a track for traction of an off-road vehicle The track is mountable around a track-engaging assembly comprising a plurality of wheels. The wheels include a drive wheel for driving the track.
  • the track comprises an inner surface for facing the track-engaging assembly and a ground-engaging outer surface for engaging the ground.
  • the track comprises elastomeric material allowing the track to flex around the track- engaging assembly.
  • the track comprises a plurality of cores embedded in the elastomeric material, spaced apart in a longitudinal direction of the track, and extending transversally to the longitudinal direction of the track.
  • Each core comprises a guide protrusion projecting from the inner surface to contact at least one of the wheels.
  • the core comprises an opening extending through the core.
  • the opening and the guide protrusion overlap in a widthwise direction of the track.
  • the track comprises a cable passing through the opening of each of the cores.
  • a track for traction of an off-road vehicle is mountable around a track-engaging assembly comprising a plurality of wheels.
  • the wheels include a drive wheel for driving the track.
  • the track comprises an inner surface for facing the track-engaging assembly and a ground-engaging outer surface for engaging the ground.
  • the track comprises elastomeric material allowing the track to flex around the track- engaging assembly.
  • the track comprises a plurality of cores embedded in the elastomeric material, spaced apart in a longitudinal direction of the track, and extending transversally to the longitudinal direction of the track. Each core comprises a channel extending through the core.
  • the track comprises a number of cables passing through the channel of each of the cores. The number of cables is no more than four.
  • a track for traction of an off-road vehicle is mountable around a track-engaging assembly comprising a plurality of wheels.
  • the wheels include a drive wheel for driving the track.
  • the track comprises elastomeric material allowing the track to flex around the track-engaging assembly.
  • the elastomeric material comprises peripheral elastomeric material forming at least part of a periphery of the track.
  • the periphery of the track comprises an inner surface for facing the track-engaging assembly, a ground-engaging outer surface for engaging the ground, and a pair of lateral edges defining a width of the track.
  • the elastomeric material comprises internal elastomeric material located away from the periphery of the track, occupying at least a majority of the width of the track, and having a higher modulus of elasticity than the peripheral elastomeric material.
  • a track for traction of an off-road vehicle is mountable around a track-engaging assembly comprising a plurality of wheels.
  • the wheels include a drive wheel for driving the track.
  • the track comprises an inner surface for facing the track-engaging assembly and a ground-engaging outer surface for engaging the ground.
  • the track comprises elastomeric material allowing the track to flex around the track- engaging assembly.
  • the track comprises a plurality of cores embedded in the elastomeric material, spaced apart in a longitudinal direction of the track, and extending transversally to the longitudinal direction of the track.
  • Each core is formed as a one-piece structure.
  • the core comprises a guide protrusion projecting from the inner surface to contact at least one of the wheels.
  • the core comprising an opening extending through the core.
  • the track comprises a cable passing through the opening of each of the cores.
  • a track for traction of an off-road vehicle is mountable around a track-engaging assembly comprising a plurality of wheels.
  • the wheels include a drive wheel for driving the track.
  • the track comprises an inner surface for facing the track-engaging assembly and a ground-engaging outer surface for engaging the ground.
  • the track comprises elastomeric material allowing the track to flex around the track- engaging assembly.
  • the track comprises a plurality of cores embedded in the elastomeric material, spaced apart in a longitudinal direction of the track, and extending transversally to the longitudinal direction of the track. Each core comprises a channel extending through the core.
  • the track comprises a tensile reinforcement passing through the channel of each of the cores and providing a bulk of a tensile strength of the track.
  • a track for traction of an off-road vehicle is mountable around a track-engaging assembly comprising a plurality of wheels.
  • the wheels include a drive wheel for driving the track.
  • the track comprises an inner surface for facing the track-engaging assembly and a ground-engaging outer surface for engaging the ground.
  • the track comprises elastomeric material allowing the track to flex around the track- engaging assembly.
  • the track comprises a plurality of cores embedded in the elastomeric material, spaced apart in a longitudinal direction of the track, and extending transversally to the longitudinal direction of the track. Each core comprises a channel extending through the core.
  • the track comprises a plurality of cables passing through the channel of each of the cores.
  • the track comprises a plurality of cables not passing through the channel of each of the cores.
  • the cables not passing through the channel of each of the cores are smaller in diameter than the cables passing through the channel of each of the cores.
  • a track for traction of an off-road vehicle is mountable around a track-engaging assembly comprising a plurality of wheels.
  • the wheels include a drive wheel for driving the track.
  • the track comprises an inner surface for facing the track-engaging assembly and a ground-engaging outer surface for engaging the ground.
  • the track comprises elastomeric material allowing the track to flex around the track- engaging assembly.
  • the track comprises a plurality of cores embedded in the elastomeric material, spaced apart in a longitudinal direction of the track, and extending transversally to the longitudinal direction of the track.
  • Each core comprises a channel extending through the core.
  • the track comprises a plurality of cables passing through the channel of each of the cores.
  • the track comprises a layer of reinforcing fabric embedded in the elastomeric material.
  • a track for traction of an off-road vehicle is mountable around a track-engaging assembly comprising a plurality of wheels.
  • the wheels include a drive wheel for driving the track.
  • the track comprises an inner surface for facing the track-engaging assembly and a ground-engaging outer surface for engaging the ground.
  • the track comprises elastomeric material allowing the track to flex around the track- engaging assembly.
  • the track comprises a plurality of cores embedded in the elastomeric material, spaced apart in a longitudinal direction of the track, and extending transversally to the longitudinal direction of the track.
  • Each core comprises a guide protrusion projecting from the inner surface to contact at least one of the wheels.
  • the core comprises an opening extending through the core. No cable passes through the opening of each of the cores.
  • FIG. 1 shows an example of an off-road vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the invention
  • Figure 2 shows a track system of the vehicle
  • Figure 3 shows a perspective view of a segment of a track of the track system
  • Figure 4 shows a plan view of a ground-engaging outer side of the track
  • Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional view of the track
  • Figure 6 shows a chain embedded in elastomeric material of the track
  • Figures 7 and 8 show enlarged views of a segment of the chain
  • Figures 9 and 10 show a roller wheel rolling on the track in accordance with embodiments of the invention
  • Figure 1 1 shows a variant of the chain in accordance with another embodiment of the invention
  • Figure 12 shows a cross-sectional view of the track comprising a variant of the chain in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.
  • Figure 13 shows the chain of the track of Figure 12
  • Figures 14 to 16 show front, top and side views of a wheel-engaging link of the chain of the track of Figure 12;
  • Figure 17 shows longitudinal end portions of a cable of the chain of the track of Figure 12 which are interconnected;
  • Figures 18 to 20 show front, top and side views of a variant of the wheel- engaging link of the chain of the track of Figure 12;
  • FIGS 21 and 22 show spacers of the chain in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.
  • Figures 23 and 24 show a variant of the spacers of the chain in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.
  • Figure 25 shows a cross-sectional view of the track comprising another variant of the chain in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.
  • Figure 26 shows the chain of the track of Figure 25
  • Figures 27 and 28 show front and side views of a wheel-engaging link of the chain of the track of Figure 25;
  • Figures 29 and 30 show front and side views of a non-wheel-engaging link of the chain of the track of Figure 25;
  • Figure 31 shows another variant of the chain of the track
  • Figures 32 and 33 show front and side views of a wheel-engaging link of the chain of the track of Figure 31 ;
  • Figures 34 and 35 show front and side views of another wheel-engaging link of the chain of the track of Figure 31 ;
  • Figure 36 shows a variant of the track comprising different elastomeric materials in different regions in accordance with another embodiment of the invention
  • Figure 37 shows a variant of the track comprising a layer of reinforcing cables in accordance with another embodiment of the invention
  • Figures 38 to 40 show perspective views and a cross-sectional view of a variant of the track in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.
  • Figure 41 shows a variant of the chain embedded in the elastomeric material of the track of Figures 38 to 40;
  • Figures 42 to 46 show views of a drive/guide link of the track of Figures 38 to 40;
  • Figure 47 shows a roller wheel rolling on the track of Figures 38 to 40
  • Figure 48 shows a cross-sectional view of a cable of the track of Figures 38 to 40
  • Figure 49 shows longitudinal end portions of a cable of the track of Figures 38 to 40 which are interconnected
  • Figure 50 shows a cross-sectional view of the track of Figures 38 to 40 showing different elastomeric materials in different regions of the track;
  • Figures 51 to 54 show views of a variant of the track in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. It is to be expressly understood that the description and drawings are only for the purpose of illustrating certain embodiments of the invention and are an aid for understanding. They are not intended to be a definition of the limits of the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
  • FIG. 1 shows an example of an off-road tracked vehicle 10 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
  • the vehicle 10 is a heavy- duty work vehicle for performing construction, agricultural, or other industrial work or military work. More particularly, in this embodiment, the vehicle 10 is a construction vehicle for performing construction work. Specifically, in this example, the construction vehicle 10 is a mini-excavator. In other examples, the construction vehicle 10 may be a backhoe loader, a bulldozer, a skid steer loader, or any other type of construction vehicle.
  • the construction vehicle 10 comprises a frame 12, a powertrain 13, a pair of track systems 16 ⁇ 16 2 , and an operator cabin 20, which enable an operator to move the construction vehicle 10 on the ground to perform construction work using a work implement 18.
  • the powertrain 13 is configured for generating motive power and transmitting motive power to the track systems 16i, 16 2 to propel the construction vehicle 10 on the ground.
  • the powertrain 13 comprises a prime mover 14, which is a source of motive power that comprises one or more motors (e.g., an internal combustion engine, an electric motor, etc.).
  • the prime mover 14 comprises an internal combustion engine.
  • the prime mover 14 may comprise another type of motor (e.g., an electric motor) or a combination of different types of motor (e.g., an internal combustion engine and an electric motor).
  • the prime mover 13 is in a driving relationship with the track systems 16i, 16 2 . That is, the powertrain 13 transmits motive power from the primer mover 14 to the track systems 16i , 16 2 in order to drive (i.e., impart motion to) the track systems 16i, 16 2 .
  • the work implement 18 is used to perform construction work.
  • the work implement 18 is a bucket mounted to a hinged boom for moving soil, debris or other material.
  • the work implement 18 may be a dozer blade, a backhoe, a fork, a grapple, a scraper pan, an auger, a saw, a ripper, a material handling arm, or any other type of construction work implement.
  • the operator cabin 20 is where the operator sits and controls the construction vehicle 10. More particularly, the operator cabin 20 comprises a user interface including a set of controls that allow the operator to steer the construction vehicle 10 on the ground, operate the work implement 18, and control other aspects of the vehicle 10.
  • each track system 16 comprises a track-engaging assembly 21 and a track 22 disposed around the track-engaging assembly 21 .
  • the track-engaging assembly 21 comprises a plurality of wheels, including a drive wheel 24 and a plurality of idler wheels, which includes a rear idler wheel 26 and a plurality of roller wheels 28r28 10 .
  • the track system 16j also comprises a frame 15 which supports various components of the track system 16,, including the roller wheels 28 28i 0.
  • the track system 16, has a longitudinal direction and a first longitudinal end 57 and a second longitudinal end 59 that define a length of the track system 16,.
  • the track system 16 has a widthwise direction and a width that is defined by a width of the track 22.
  • the track system 16 also has a height direction that is normal to its longitudinal direction and its widthwise direction.
  • the drive wheel 24 is rotatable using power generated by the prime mover 14 and delivered over the powertrain 13 to impart motion of the track 22.
  • the drive wheel 24 is a drive sprocket and the track 22 comprises a plurality of drive openings 31 31 D which receive teeth of the drive wheel 24 in order to drive the track 22.
  • the idler wheels 26 and the roller wheels 28 28io are not driven by power supplied by the prime mover 14, but are rather used to do at least one of supporting part of the weight of the vehicle 10 on the ground via the track 22, guiding the track 22 as it is driven by the drive wheel 24, and tensioning the track 22. More particularly, in this embodiment, the idler wheel 26 maintains the track 22 in tension and may help to support part of the weight of the vehicle 10 on the ground via the track 22.
  • the roller wheels 28 28 10 roll on the track to apply the track 22 onto the ground. In this case, as they are located between frontmost and rearmost ones of the wheels of the track system 16,, the roller wheels 28 r 28 10 can be referred to as "mid-rollers".
  • the track 22 engages the ground to provide traction to the construction vehicle 10.
  • a length of the track 22 allows the track 22 to be mounted around the track- engaging assembly 21 .
  • the track 22 can be referred to as an "endless" track.
  • the track 22 comprises a periphery 1 1 which comprises an inner side 45, a ground-engaging outer side 47, and lateral edges 89i, 89 2 .
  • the inner side 45 faces the track-engaging assembly 21 , while the ground-engaging outer side 47 engages the ground.
  • a top run 65 of the track 22 extends between the longitudinal ends 57, 59 of the track system 16, and over the wheels 24, 26, 28 28io and a bottom run 66 of the track 22 extends between the longitudinal ends 57, 59 of the track system 16, and under the wheels 24, 26, 28 28 0 .
  • the track 22 has a longitudinal axis 19 which defines a longitudinal direction of the track 22 (i.e., a direction generally parallel to its longitudinal axis) and transversal directions of the track 22 (i.e., directions transverse to its longitudinal axis), including a widthwise direction of the track 22 (i.e., a lateral direction generally perpendicular to its longitudinal axis).
  • the track 22 has a thickness direction normal to its longitudinal and widthwise directions.
  • the track 22 is elastomeric, i.e., comprises elastomeric material, to be flexible around the track-engaging assembly 21 .
  • the elastomeric material of the track 22 can include any polymeric material with suitable elasticity.
  • the elastomeric material of the track 22 includes rubber.
  • Various rubber compounds may be used and, in some cases, different rubber compounds may be present in different areas of the track 22.
  • the elastomeric material of the track 22 may include another elastomer in addition to or instead of rubber (e.g., polyurethane elastomer).
  • the track 22 comprises an endless body 36 underlying its inner side 45 and ground-engaging outer side 47.
  • the body 36 will be referred to as a "carcass".
  • the carcass 36 comprises an inner surface 53 that faces the track-engaging assembly 21 and a ground-engaging outer surface 49 for engaging the ground.
  • the carcass 36 has a thickness T c measured from its inner surface 53 to its ground-engaging outer surface 49.
  • the carcass 36 is elastomeric in that it comprises elastomeric material 38, in this case rubber, which allows the carcass 36 to elastically change in shape and thus the track 22 to flex as it is in motion around the track-engaging assembly 21 .
  • Reinforcing elements are embedded in elastomeric material of the track 22, including the rubber 38 of the carcass 36.
  • the track 22 comprises a chain 30 embedded in its rubber, including the rubber 38 of the carcass 36, to impart strength in tension of the track 22 in its longitudinal direction as well as drive the track 22 and guide and bear loading from the mid-rollers 28 28 0 , as further discussed later.
  • the carcass 36 comprises a layer of reinforcing fabric 43 embedded in its rubber 38.
  • the reinforcing fabric 43 comprises thin pliable material made usually by weaving, felting, knitting, interlacing, or otherwise crossing natural or synthetic elongated fabric elements, such as fibers, filaments, strands and/or others, such that some elongated fabric elements extend transversally to the longitudinal direction of the track 22 to have a reinforcing effect in a transversal direction of the track 22.
  • the reinforcing fabric 43 may comprise a ply of reinforcing woven fibers (e.g., nylon fibers or other synthetic fibers).
  • the layer of reinforcing fabric 43 is disposed between the chain 30 and the inner surface 53 of the carcass 36. This may further help anchoring the chain 30 in the track 22 and may provide cutting resistance.
  • the track 22 comprises a plurality of transversal stiffeners 44 44 c that are spaced apart in and extend transversally to the longitudinal direction of the track 22 to impart transversal rigidity to the track 22.
  • the transversal stiffeners 44 44 c are distinct from the chain 30 and are spaced from the chain 30 in the thickness direction of the track 22.
  • a length L t of each of the transversal stiffeners 44 44c is greater than a width W c of the chain 30 in the widthwise direction of the track 22 such that the transversal stiffeners 44 44 c may help to spread loading from the mid-rollers 28i-28i 0 over a greater part of the width of the track 22.
  • Each transversal stiffener 44 x is an elongated structure extending transversally to the longitudinal direction of the track 22 and comprising a pair of wings 95i, 95 2 and a central portion 96 between the wings 95i , 95 2 .
  • a thickness T t of the transversal stiffener 44 x is significant to allow the transversal stiffener 44 x to occupy more space within the track 22.
  • the thickness T t of the transversal stiffener 44 x may be at least 20% of the thickness T c of the carcass 36, in some cases at least 30% of the thickness T c of the carcass 36, in some cases at least 40% of the thickness T c of the carcass 36, in some cases at least 50% of the thickness T c of the carcass 36, and in some cases even more (e.g., 60%, 70% or more).
  • the thickness T t of the transversal stiffener 44 x may have any other suitable value in other embodiments.
  • the wings 95i, 95 2 include enlargements 97 ; 97 2 .
  • the enlargements 97!, 97 2 are located at longitudinal ends of the wings 95 ⁇ 95 2 .
  • the enlargements 97 1 ; 97 2 may be located elsewhere along the transversal stiffeners 44 44 c in other examples.
  • the transversal stiffener 44 x comprises a stiffening material 39 stiffer than a portion 88 of the rubber 38 of the carcass 36 adjacent to it.
  • the portion 88 of the rubber 38 of the carcass 36 adjacent to the transversal stiffener 44 x comprises rubber 88 1 of the inner side 45 of the track 22, rubber 88 2 of the ground-engaging outer side 47 of the track 22, and rubber 88 3 , 88 4 of the lateral edges 89i, 89 2 of the track 22, such that the transversal stiffener 44 x is encapsulated by this portion 88 of the rubber 38 of the carcass 36.
  • the portion 88 of the rubber 38 of the carcass 36 adjacent to the transversal stiffener 44 x may comprise some but not all of the rubber 88 1 of the inner side 45 of the track 22, the rubber 88 2 of the ground-engaging outer side 47 of the track 22, and rubber 88 3 , 88 4 of the lateral edges 89 89 2 of the track 22, such that the transversal stiffener 44 x is not encapsulated but is rather exposed.
  • the stiffening material 39 of the transversal stiffener 44 x is polymeric material. More particularly, in this embodiment, the polymeric material 39 is elastomeric material. In this example, the elastomeric material 39 is rubber. The rubber 39 is thus part of the rubber 38 of the carcass 36 but stiffer than the adjacent portion 88 of the rubber 38 of the carcass 36 in which it is embedded.
  • the polymeric material 39 may be any other suitable elastomeric material or non- elastomeric polymeric material (e.g., polypropylene, polyethylene, etc.) in other embodiments.
  • the stiffening material 39 may be another type of nonmetallic material, such as ceramic material or composite material, or metallic material in other embodiments.
  • the ground-engaging outer side 47 of the track 22 comprises the ground- engaging outer surface 49 of the carcass 36 and a plurality of traction projections 61 1-61 that project from the ground-engaging outer surface 49 to form a tread pattern 40.
  • the traction projections 61 I-61 M may have any suitable shape (e.g., straight shapes, curved shapes, shapes with straight parts and curved parts, etc.).
  • each of the traction projections 61 I-61 M comprises elastomeric material 41 , in this case rubber.
  • the inner side 45 of the track 22 comprises the inner surface 53 of the carcass 36 and a plurality of wheel-contacting projections 48 48 N that project from the inner surface 53 and are positioned to contact at least some of the wheels 24, 26, 28 28 10 to do at least one of driving (i.e., imparting motion to) the track 22 and guiding the track 22. Since each of them is used to do at least one of driving the track 22 and guiding the track 22, the inner projections 48I-48N can be referred to as "drive/guide projections".
  • a drive/guide projection 48 interacts with a given one of the idler wheels 26, 28 28i 0 to guide the track 22 to maintain proper track alignment or prevent de-tracking, without being used to drive the track 22, such that the drive/guide projection 48i is a guide projection.
  • a drive/guide projection 48 may interact with the drive wheel 24 to drive the track 22, such that the drive/guide projection 48, is a drive projection.
  • a drive/guide projection 48 may both (i) interact with the drive wheel 24 to drive the track 22 and (ii) interact with a given one of the idler wheels 26, 28 28i 0 to guide the track 22, such that the drive/guide projection 48, is both a drive projection and a guide projection.
  • each guide projection 48 comprises elastomeric material 67, in this case rubber, and a part of the chain 30, as further discussed below.
  • the guide projections 48I-48N may have any suitable shape.
  • Each guide projection 48 has a periphery 69 which, in this embodiment, a top surface 86 and two lateral surfaces 811 , 81 2 .
  • One or more of the surfaces of the guide projection 48j may contact a given one of the roller wheels 28 28i 0 to help prevent excessive lateral movement of the track 22 and/or bear loading from that wheel.
  • each of the top surface 86 and the lateral surfaces 81 1 , 81 2 may be a wheel-contacting surface that contacts a given one of the roller wheels 28 28i 0 when the guide projection 48, contacts that wheel.
  • the lateral surface 811 may be a wheel-contacting surface that contacts a given one of the roller wheels 28 28io when the guide projection 48, contacts that wheel.
  • the periphery 69 of the guide projection 48 may have various other shapes in other embodiments.
  • the inner surface 53 of the carcass 36 comprises a plurality of rolling paths 33i , 33 2 on which respective ones of the roller wheels 28 r 28i 0 may roll, namely the rolling path 33i on which the roller wheels 28 28 5 may roll and the rolling path 33 2 on which the roller wheels 28 6 -28i 0 may roll.
  • the guide projections 48I-48N are located between the rolling paths 33 ⁇ 33 2 in the track system's widthwise direction.
  • the rubber of the track 22, including the rubber 38, 41 , 67 of the carcass 36, the traction projections 61 61 M and the guide projections 48 48N, is molded into shape in a molding process during which the rubber is cured.
  • a mold may be used to consolidate rubber components (e.g., sheets or other layers of rubber and/or blocks of rubber previously produced using any suitable process such as calendering, molding, etc.) providing the rubber 38, 41 , 67 of the carcass 36, the traction projections 61 1-61 M and the guide projections 48 48N and the layer of reinforcing fabric 43 (e.g., a sheet of rubber with the fabric 43 embedded therein), with the chain 30 and the transversal stiffeners 44 44 c disposed in the mold so as to be embedded in the rubber once consolidated.
  • rubber components e.g., sheets or other layers of rubber and/or blocks of rubber previously produced using any suitable process such as calendering, molding, etc.
  • the chain 30 is a closed structure that is embedded in the rubber of the track 22 and extends along the length of the track 22.
  • the chain 30 comprises a plurality of links 32 32 L that are interconnected into a closed configuration of the chain 30. Owing to its closed configuration, the chain 30 reinforces the track 22 in the track's longitudinal direction as the track 22 is in tension around the track-engaging assembly 21 .
  • the chain 30 is thus a tensile reinforcing structure embedded in the rubber of the track 22 that resists a tensile force exerted on the track 22.
  • the chain 30 is configured to engage the drive wheel 24 for driving the track 22 and guide and bear loading from the mid-rollers 28 28io.
  • the chain 30 also has an extent in the widthwise direction of the track 22 that helps in retaining the chain 30 in the rubber of the track 22 and may rigidify the track 22 in the track's widthwise direction, which may improve traction and floatation.
  • the plurality of links 32 32 L of the chain 30 includes a plurality of wheel-engaging links 33 33 L to engage (i.e., interact with) at least one of the wheels 24, 26, 28 28io for at least one of (i) driving the track 22 and (ii) guiding the track 22.
  • Each of the wheel-engaging links 33 33 L may thus be (1 ) a drive link for engaging the drive wheel 24 to impart motion to the track 22, (2) a guide link for engaging one or more of the idler wheels 26, 28 28io to guide the track 22 without being used for driving the track 22, or (3) a drive/guide link for both engaging the drive wheel 24 to impart motion to the track 22 and engaging one or more of the idler wheels 26, 28 28io to guide the track 22.
  • all of the links 32 32i_ of the chain 30 correspond to respective ones of the wheel-engaging links 33I-33L such that every link of the chain 30 is intended to engage one or more of the wheels 24, 26, 28 28i 0 .
  • the plurality of wheel-engaging links 33 33L includes a plurality of guide links 34 34 G and a plurality of drive links 35I-35D that are interlinked. Adjacent ones of the guide links 34 1 -34 G that are adjacent in the longitudinal direction of the track 22 are connected to one another by respective ones of the drive links 35i-35 D . Also, in this example, the guide links 34 34 G are arranged in two rows of guide links 62i , 62 2 that are spaced apart in the widthwise direction of the track 22 and that are interconnected by the drive links 35i-35 D . Each of the guide links 34 34 G is elongated in the longitudinal direction of the track 22, while each of the drive links 35I-35D is elongated transversally to the longitudinal direction of the track 22, in this case in the widthwise direction of the track 22.
  • Each guide link 34 x comprises a guide member 60 configured to engage one or more of the idler wheels 26, 28 r 28i 0 .
  • the guide member 60 is configured to engage respective ones of the mid-rollers 28 28io.
  • the guide member 60 has a periphery 63 which can come into contact with respective ones of the mid-rollers 28i-28 10 in use. More particularly, in this example, the periphery 63 of the guide member 60 comprises a top surface 64, a bottom surface 68, and two lateral surfaces 70i , 70 2 opposite one another. One or more of these surfaces of the guide member 60 may contact a given one of the mid-rollers 28i- 28io to help prevent excessive lateral movement of the track 22 and/or bear loading from that wheel.
  • the lateral surface 70 2 may be a wheel-contacting surface that contacts a given one of the mid-rollers 28 r 28io when the guide link 34 x contacts that wheel.
  • the top surface 64 may be a wheel-contacting surface that contacts a given one of the roller wheels 28i-28i 0 when the guide link 34 x contacts that wheel.
  • the guide member 60 of the guide link 34 x constitutes at least part (i.e., constitutes an entirety or less than an entirety) of a guide projection 48, of the track 22. More particularly, in this embodiment, the guide member 60 of the guide link 34 x projects away from the inner surface 53 of the carcass 36 on the inner side 45 of the track 22. In this example, the guide member 60 does not form part of the periphery 69 of the guide projection 48, when the track 22 is new. More particularly, in this example, when the track 22 is new, the rubber 67 of the guide projection 48, covers the guide member 60, as shown in Figure 5. During use of the track 22, at least part of the guide member 60 may become exposed as some of the rubber 67 of the guide projection 48, wears out. At that point, the guide member 60 provides at least part of the wheel- contacting surface of the guide projection 48, such that the guide member 60 contacts a mid-roller 28, when the guide projection 48, contacts the mid-roller 28,.
  • the guide link 34 x also comprises a pair of pivotal portions 71 ⁇ 71 2 at which it is pivotally connected to adjacent ones of the guide links 34 34 G so as to be pivotable relative to these adjacent guide links.
  • the pivotal portions 71 1 ; 71 2 are configured to receive successive ones of the drive links 35 35 D - More particularly, in this embodiment, each of the pivotal portions 71 ⁇ 71 2 comprises an opening 72 to receive a given one of the drive links 35I-35D which provides an axle about which the guide link 34 x can pivot.
  • individual ones of the guide links 34 34 G in each row of guide links 62 x form a continuous path for respective ones of the mid-rollers 28 28 10 facing that row of guide links.
  • This path is "continuous" in that adjacent ones of the guide links 34 34 G in the row of guide links 62 x overlap in the longitudinal direction of the track 22.
  • this path is a continuous rolling path for a mid-roller 28, rolling on the top surfaces 64 of adjacent ones of the guide links 34 34 G in the row of guide links 62 x such that the mid-roller 28, contacts a given guide link before leaving (i.e., ceasing to contact) a preceding guide link and contacts a following guide link before leaving the guide link.
  • the guide link 34 x comprises a void 76 (i.e., a hollow space) to reduce its weight.
  • the void 76 is an opening extending transversally across the guide link 34 x . More particularly, in this case, the opening 76 is a slot extending generally parallel to the longitudinal direction of the track 22.
  • Each drive link 35 x comprises a drive member 73 configured to engage the drive wheel 24 in order to impart motion to the track 22.
  • the drive member 73 is disposed between two successive drive openings 31 ,, 31 j of the track 22 such that, when two teeth of the drive wheel 24 are received in the drive openings 31 i, 31,, the drive member 73 is located in a gap between these two teeth and transmits a rotational force from the drive wheel 24 to the track 22 for motion of the track 22.
  • the drive member 73 has a cylindrical shape.
  • the drive member 73 may have any other suitable shape in other examples.
  • the drive link 35 x interconnects respective ones of the guide links 34 34 G .
  • the drive link 35 x comprises a pair of pivotal portions 74 ⁇ 74 2 at which it is pivotally connected to adjacent ones of the guide links 34 34 G in each of the rows of guide links 62! , 62 2 such that it is pivotable relative to these adjacent guide links.
  • each of the pivotal portions 74i , 74 2 is configured to be received in the openings 72 of adjacent ones of the guide links 34 34 G in each of the rows of guide links 62i , 62 2 .
  • the drive link 35 x thus provides an axle about which these adjacent guide links can pivot.
  • caps, pins or other locking elements may be provided (e.g., at longitudinal ends of the drive link 35 x ) to further ensure that individual ones of the guide links 34 34 G pivotally connected to the drive link 35 x remain in position.
  • the chain 30 comprises a plurality of anchors 75 75 A embedded in the rubber of the track 22 for anchoring the chain 30 in the track's rubber.
  • each of the anchors 75I-75A comprises a transversal extension that extends transversally to the longitudinal direction of the track 22 and is embedded in the rubber 38 of the carcass 36.
  • the anchors 75I-75A project from respective ones of the guide links 34 34 G in the widthwise direction of the track 22.
  • the anchors 75 75 A may be molded or otherwise integrally formed with the guide members 60 of these respective guide links.
  • the anchors 75 75A may be formed separately and secured to these respective guide links (e.g., by welding or by bolts, screws or other mechanical fasteners).
  • the anchors 75I-75A may be arranged in various other ways in other embodiments (e.g., they may project from respective ones of the drive links 35I-35D in the widthwise direction of the track 22).
  • the anchors 75 75 A are disposed between the layer of reinforcing fabric 43 and the ground-engaging outer surface 49 of the carcass 36 in the thickness direction of the track 22.
  • the anchors 75I-75A are disposed between the layer of reinforcing fabric 43 and the transversal stiffeners 44 44 c in the thickness direction of the track 22. This may further enhance retention of the chain 22 in the track 22.
  • Each anchor 75 x is elongated such that it has a longitudinal axis extending transversally to the longitudinal direction of the track 22.
  • the longitudinal axis of the anchor 75 x is generally parallel to the widthwise direction of the track 22.
  • the anchor 75 x tapers along its longitudinal axis. For example, this may help to sustain bending forces that are higher closer to guide links 34 34 G .
  • the links 32 32 L and the anchors 75I-75A of the chain 30 may be made of any suitable material.
  • each of the links 32 32 L and the anchors 75I-75A is metallic, i.e., is at least mainly (i.e., it is mostly or entirely) made of metal.
  • the metal of the links 32 32 L and the anchors 75I-75A includes steel.
  • the metal of the links 32 32 L and the anchors 75i-75 A may include any other suitable metal in other examples.
  • the chain 30 may be implemented in various other manners in other embodiments.
  • the links 32 32 L and/or the anchors 75I-75A may have any other suitable shape.
  • a guide link 34 x may be wider or narrower in the widthwise direction of the track 22, longer or shorter in the longitudinal direction of the track 22, and/or taller or shorter in the thickness direction of the track 22.
  • each of the pivotal portions 71 ⁇ 712 of a guide link 34 x may comprise an axle that is received in an opening of the drive link 35 x .
  • the links 32 32 L and/or the anchors 75I-75A may be disposed in any other suitable way in the track 22.
  • the drive links 35I-35D may extend beyond the inner surface 53 of the carcass 36.
  • the links 32 32 L and/or the anchors 75I-75A may be made of any other suitable material.
  • the links 32 32 L and/or the anchors 75 75 A may be made of nonmetallic material, i.e., at least mainly (i.e., mostly or entirely) made of nonmetal.
  • the nonmetallic material making up the links 32i-32 L and/or the anchors 75I-75A may be polymeric material, ceramic material or composite material having high stiffness.
  • different ones of the links 32 32 L and/or the anchors 75 75 A may be made of different materials (e.g., the guide links 34 34 G may be made of a given metallic material, while the drive links 35I-35D may be made of a different metallic material or of a polymeric material).
  • the chain 30 may have a different overall configuration.
  • Figures 12 to 16 show another embodiment of the chain 30 in which the plurality of links 32 32 L includes a plurality of wheel-engaging links 133i-133i_ which engage at least one of the wheels 24, 26, 28 28i 0 for at least one of (i) driving the track 22 and (ii) guiding the track 22 as well as a plurality of non-wheel-engaging links 177 ⁇ 177 2 which do not engage the wheels 24, 26,
  • _ is a drive/guide link for both engaging the drive wheel 24 to impart motion to the track 22 and engaging the mid-rollers 28i-28i 0 to guide the track 22.
  • each of the non-wheel-engaging links 177i, 177 2 is a cable that interconnects the drive/guide links 133 133 L .
  • the cables 177i, 177 2 constitute a tensile reinforcement 129 that resists a tensile force exerted on the track 22.
  • Each drive/guide link 133 x comprises a guide member 160 configured to engage the mid-rollers 28 28i 0 and a drive member 173 configured to engage the drive wheel 24 in order to impart motion to the track 22.
  • the drive/guide link 133 x also comprises a pair of wings 192i , 192 2 which extend transversally to the longitudinal direction of the track 22 and between which is disposed the drive member 173.
  • the drive/guide link 133 x may be referred to as a "core”. More particularly, in this embodiment where it is metallic, the drive/guide link 133 x may be referred to as a "metallic core".
  • the guide member 160 of the core 133 x comprises a pair of guide protrusions 178i, 178 2 which project away from the inner surface 53 of the carcass 36 on the inner side 45 of the track 22 and are spaced apart in the widthwise direction of the track 22.
  • Each guide protrusion 178 x has a periphery 163 which can come into contact with respective ones of the mid-rollers 28 28i 0 in use. More particularly, in this example, the periphery 163 of the guide protrusion 178 x comprises a top surface 164 and two lateral surfaces 170i , 170 2 opposite one another.
  • each of the top surface 164 and the lateral surface 170 2 is a wheel-contacting surface that contacts a given one of the mid-rollers 28 28io when the core 133 x contacts that wheel.
  • the guide member 160 of the core 133 x constitutes at least part of one or more of the guide projections 48I-48N of the track 22.
  • each guide protrusion 178, of the core 133 x constitutes at least part of a guide projection 48, of the track 22.
  • the guide protrusion 178i of the core 133 x does not form part of the periphery 69 of the guide projection 48, of the track 22 when the track 22 is new.
  • the rubber 67 of the guide projection 48 covers the guide protrusion 178, of the core 133 x , as shown in Figure 12.
  • at least part of the guide protrusion 178, of the core 133 x may become exposed as some of the rubber 67 of the guide projection 48, wears out.
  • the guide protrusion 178, of the core 133 x provides at least part of the wheel-contacting surface of the guide projection 48, such that the guide member 160 contacts a mid-roller 28, when the guide projection 48, contacts the mid-roller 28,.
  • a guide protrusion 178 x of a core 133 comprises a longitudinal extension 182 that extends in the longitudinal direction of the track 22 towards a guide protrusion 178 x of an adjacent core 133 j .
  • the longitudinal extensions 182 of the guide protrusion 178 x of the core 133, and the guide protrusion 178 x of the adjacent core 133 j may reach one another (e.g., be contiguous in certain instances) or may extend very close to another (i.e., closer than what is shown in Figure 13). This may help to maintain proper positioning of the cores 133,, 133j as the longitudinal extensions 182 of the guide protrusion 178 x of the core 133, and the guide protrusion 178 x of the adjacent core 133 j can abut against one another if the cores 133,, 133 j tend to move laterally in relation to one another.
  • the longitudinal extensions 182 of the guide protrusion 178 x of the core 133, and the guide protrusion 178 x of the adjacent core 133 j may overlap in the longitudinal direction of the track 22. This longitudinal overlap creates a continuous rolling path for a mid-roller 28 x that contacts the guide protrusion 178 x of the core 33j before leaving (i.e., ceasing to contact) the guide protrusion 178 x of the core 133,.
  • the drive member 173 of the core 133 x extends between the guide protrusions 178 ⁇ 178 2 of the guide member 160 of the core 133 x .
  • the drive member 173 is disposed between two successive drive openings 31 s, 31 j of the track 22 such that, when two teeth of the drive wheel 24 are received in the drive openings 31 31 j , the drive member 173 is located in a gap between these two teeth and transmits a rotational force from the drive wheel 24 to the track 22 for motion of the track 22.
  • the drive member 173 has a cylindrical shape.
  • the drive member 173 may have any other suitable shape in other examples.
  • the core 133 x comprises a channel 180 through which the cables 177 ⁇ 177 2 pass.
  • the channel 180 comprises a pair of openings 182 ⁇ 182 2 that are spaced part in the widthwise direction of the track 22 and that receive respective ones of the cables 177i, 177 2 . Passing the cables 177i, 177 2 through the core 133 x repositions a neutral axis of the track 22 (i.e., an imaginary line of the track 22 where there is no longitudinal stress or strain when the track 22 flexes) more inwardly, which may allow the track 22 to be thinner.
  • a neutral axis of the track 22 i.e., an imaginary line of the track 22 where there is no longitudinal stress or strain when the track 22 flexes
  • the cables 177 ⁇ 177 2 are fixed in (i.e., cannot move within) the openings 182i , 182 2 . More particularly, in this example, portions 156i , 156 2 of the rubber 38 of the carcass 36 are disposed in the openings 182 ⁇ 182 2 and surround the cables 177 ⁇ 177 2 within the openings 182 ! , 182 2 to fix the cables 177 15 177 2 within the openings 182 ⁇ 182 2 (e.g., some or all of these portions 156i, 156 2 of the rubber 38 of the carcass 36 may flow within the openings 182i , 182 2 during molding of the track 22).
  • each of the cores 133r133i_ is metallic, i.e., is at least mainly (i.e., it is mostly or entirely) made of metal. More particularly, in this example, the metal of the cores 133I-133L includes steel.
  • each core 133 x is molded (i.e., cast), forged or otherwise formed as a one-piece structure. That is, parts of the core 133 x , including the wings 192! , 192 2 , the guide protrusions 178i, 178 2 and the drive member 173, are formed together as a unit such that they are integral with one another.
  • the cores 133I-133L may be made of any other suitable material and/or using any other suitable process in other embodiments.
  • each of the cables 177i , 177 2 extend adjacent to one another in the longitudinal direction of the track 22.
  • each of the cables 177i , 177 2 comprises a cord including a plurality of strands (e.g., textile fibers or metallic wires). More particularly, in this embodiment, each of the cables 177 ⁇ 177 2 comprises a metallic cord including a plurality of metallic strands.
  • the cables 177i, 177 2 are steel cables.
  • each of the cables 177 ; 177 2 may be another type of cable made of any material suitably flexible along the cable's longitudinal axis (e.g., strands or plastic or composite material).
  • Each cable 177 x has a diameter D which may have any suitable value.
  • a ratio D/T c of the diameter D of the cable 177 x over the thickness T c of the carcass 36 may be at least 0.05, in some cases at least 0.1 , in some cases at least 0.15, in some cases at least 0.2, and in some cases even more (e.g., 0.25 or more).
  • the ratio D/T c may have any other suitable value in other embodiments.
  • a spacing C of the cables 177 ⁇ , 177 2 in the widthwise direction of the track 22 may be have any suitable value.
  • a ratio C/W of the spacing C of the cables 177i , 177 2 over the width W of the track 22 may be at least 0.1 , in some cases at least 0.15, in some cases at least 0.2, in some cases at least 0.25, and in some cases even more (e.g., 0.3 or more).
  • a ratio C/G of the spacing C of the cables 177i , 177 2 over a spacing G of the guide protrusions 178i , 178 2 of a core 133 ⁇ may be at least 0.8, in some cases at least 0.85, in some cases at least 0.90, in some cases at least 0.95, in some cases at least 1 , and in some cases even more (e.g., 1 .05 or more).
  • the ratio C/G may have any other suitable value in other embodiments. In this case, the ratio C/G is about 1 .
  • each cable 177 ⁇ 177 2 are located such that each cable 177, is generally aligned with a guide protrusion 178, of a core 133 x in the widthwise direction of the track 22.
  • generally aligned it is meant that the cable 177j and the guide protrusion 178, of the core 133 x overlap in the widthwise direction of the track 22.
  • each of the openings 182i , 182 2 of the core 133 x is generally aligned with, i.e., overlaps with, a respective one of the guide protrusions 178i , 178 2 of the core 133 x in the widthwise direction of the track 22.
  • a tensile strength TS C of each cable 177 x is suitable for withstanding tensile stresses that it is expected to be subject to during use.
  • the tensile strength TS C of the cable 177 x refers to a tensile load required to break the cable 177 x .
  • the tensile strength TS C of the cable 177 x may be at least 10000 N, in some cases at least 25000 N, and in some cases at least 40000 N, and in some cases even greater.
  • the tensile strength TS C of the cable 177 x may have any other suitable value in other embodiments.
  • the tensile reinforcement 129 constituted by the cables 177i , 177 2 passing through the cores 133 133 L provides a bulk of a tensile strength TS t of the track 22. That is, the tensile reinforcement 129 constituted by the cables 177 ! , 177 2 passing through the cores 133 133 L contributes a greatest part of the tensile strength TS t of the track 22.
  • a ratio TS tr /TS t of (i) a tensile strength TS tr of the tensile reinforcement 129 constituted by the cables 177 ⁇ 177 2 passing through the cores 133I-433L over (ii) the tensile strength TS t of the track 22 may be at least 30%, in some cases at least 35%, in some cases at least 40%, in some cases at least 45%, in some cases at least 50%, in some cases at least 55%, and in some cases even more (e.g., 60%, 70%, 80% or more).
  • the tensile strength TS t of the track 22 refers to a tensile load required to break the track 22.
  • the tensile strength TS tr of the tensile reinforcement 129 constituted by the cables 177 ! , 177 2 passing through the cores 133i-133[_ refers to a sum of the tensile strength TS C of each cable 177 x .
  • each cable 177 x is passed in a respective one of the openings 182i, 182 2 of the cores 133 133 L and longitudinal end portions 183i , 183 2 of the cable 177 x are secured to one another, as shown in Figure 17.
  • a connector 184 is mounted to the longitudinal end portions 183i, 183 2 of the cable 177 x to interconnect them.
  • the connector 184 comprises a ferrule crimped onto the longitudinal end portions 183 ⁇ 183 2 of the cable 177 x .
  • the longitudinal end portions 183i, 183 2 of the cable 177 x may be secured to one another in any other suitable way (e.g., by welding).
  • the chain 30, including the cores 133r133i_ and the cables 177 ⁇ 177 2 may be constructed in various other ways in other embodiments.
  • a core 133 x may comprise a pair of rolling platforms 185i, 185 2 that are aligned with respective ones of the rolling paths 33i, 33 2 of the track 22 in the widthwise direction of the track 22 (i.e., overlap with respective ones of the rolling paths 33i, 33 2 of the track 22 in the widthwise direction of the track 22).
  • Each of the rolling platforms 185i, 185 2 extends toward an adjacent one of the cores 133 I -133 L in the longitudinal direction of the track 22.
  • the mid-rollers 28 28 0 may roll only over the rolling platforms 185i, 185 2 aligned with the rolling paths 33i, 33 2 , the guide protrusions 178i, 178 2 of respective ones of the cores 133i-133 L do not extend towards the guide projections 178i , 178 2 of adjacent ones of the cores 133i-133 L in the longitudinal direction of the track 22, i.e., do not comprise longitudinal extensions 182, as in embodiments discussed above.
  • the core 133 x may comprise both the rolling platforms 185i, 185 2 and the lateral extensions 182 of the guide protrusions 178i, 178 2 .
  • the chain 30 may comprise a plurality of spacers 190i-190 P which maintain a spacing of the cores 133 133i_ without being required for linking the cores 133 133i_ together.
  • the spacers 190 190p can also be viewed as positioners which maintain positions of the cores 133 133 L relative to one another.
  • Each spacer 190 x extends between adjacent cores 133,, 133 j to maintain the spacing of the adjacent cores 133,, 133j. More particularly, in this embodiment, each spacer 190 x comprises a bar 193 having longitudinal end portions 191 i, 1912 configured to engage the adjacent cores 133,, 133j.
  • each of the cores 133,, 133j comprises a plurality of openings 192 192 each configured to receive a given one of the longitudinal end portions 191 1 , 191 2 of the spacer 190 x .
  • the spacers 190V190 P are configured to oppose lateral movement of adjacent ones of the cores 133 I -133 L relative to one another in the widthwise direction of the track 22. This helps to maintain proper alignment of the cores 133 133 L with the wheels 24, 26, 28 28io and prevent detracking. More particularly, in this embodiment, the spacers 190 x , 190 y between adjacent cores 133
  • the spacer 190 x defines an acute angle ⁇ relative to the widthwise direction of the track 22, while the spacer 190 y defines an opposite acute angle - ⁇ relative to the widthwise direction of the track 22.
  • the angles ⁇ , - ⁇ may have any suitable value in various embodiments (e.g., +/- 45 °).
  • the spacers 190 r 190p may be implemented in various other ways in other embodiments. For example, in some embodiments, as shown in Figures 23 and 24, each spacer 190 x may be mounted to a respective one of the cables 177i , Ml 2 between adjacent cores 133,, 133 j .
  • the spacer 190 x comprises a sleeve 194 including an opening 195 which receives the respective one of the cables 177i , 177 2 and having longitudinal end portions 196i , 196 2 configured to engage the adjacent cores 133,, 133j.
  • longitudinal end portions 196i , 196 2 of the sleeve 194 are not attached to the adjacent cores 133,, 133 j , but can rather abut against the adjacent cores 133,, 133 j if there is a slight movement of the adjacent cores 133,, 133 j relative to one another.
  • the chain 30 may comprise any other number of cables such as the cables 177i , 177 2 passing through the channel 180 of each of the cores 133 133i_.
  • there may be a single cable such as the cables 177 ! , 177 2 passing through the channel 180 of each of the cores 133r133 L .
  • there may be more than two cables such as the cables 177 1 ; 177 2 passing through the channel 180 of each of the cores 133r133i_, but yet the number of cables may be limited.
  • FIGS. 25 to 30 show another embodiment of the chain 30 in which the plurality of links 32I-32L includes a plurality of wheel-engaging links 233I-233L which engage at least one of the wheels 24, 26, 28i-28 10 for at least one of (i) driving the track 22 and (ii) guiding the track 22 as well as a plurality of offset links 215 215 0 which are offset from respective ones of the wheel-engaging links 233r 233L in the widthwise direction of the track 22.
  • the offset links 215 215o are non-wheel-engaging links which do not engage the wheels 24, 26, 28 28i 0 .
  • the plurality of wheel-engaging links 233 233 L includes a plurality of guide links 234 234 G and a plurality of drive links 235 235 D .
  • Adjacent ones of the drive links 235 235 D that are adjacent in the longitudinal direction of the track 22 are connected to one another by respective ones of the guide links 234 234 G and the offset links 215i-215o-
  • the guide links 234 234 G are arranged in two rows of guide links 262i , 262 2 that are spaced apart in the widthwise direction of the track 22 and that are interconnected by the drive links 235 235 D .
  • Each of the guide links 234 r 234 G and the offset links 215 215 0 is elongated in the longitudinal direction of the track 22, while each of the drive links 235I-235D is elongated transversally to the longitudinal direction of the track 22, in this case in the widthwise direction of the track 22.
  • Each guide link 234 x comprises a guide member 260 configured to engage one or more of the idler wheels 26, 28r28io.
  • the guide member 260 is configured to engage respective ones of the mid-rollers 28 r 28i 0 .
  • the guide member 260 comprises a pair of guide protrusions 278i, 278 2 which project away from the inner surface 53 of the carcass 36 on the inner side 45 of the track 22 and are spaced apart in the longitudinal direction of the track 22.
  • Each guide protrusion 278 x has a periphery 263 which can come into contact with respective ones of the mid-rollers 28 28io in use.
  • the periphery 263 of the guide protrusion 278 x comprises a top surface 264 and two lateral surfaces 270i, 270 2 opposite one another.
  • One or more of these surfaces of the guide protrusion 278 x may contact a given one of the mid-rollers 28 28i 0 to help prevent excessive lateral movement of the track 22 and/or bear loading from that wheel.
  • the top surface 264 may be a wheel-contacting surface that contacts a given one of the roller wheels 28 28i 0 when the guide link 234 x contacts that wheel.
  • the lateral surface 170 2 may be a wheel-contacting surface that contacts a given one of the mid-rollers 28 28 0 when the guide link 234 x contacts that wheel.
  • the guide member 260 of the guide link 234 x constitutes at least part of one or more of the guide projections 48I-48N of the track 22.
  • each guide protrusion 278i of the guide link 234 x constitutes at least part of a guide projection 48, of the track 22.
  • the guide protrusion 278, of the guide link 234 x does not form part of the periphery 69 of the guide projection 48, of the track 22 when the track 22 is new. More particularly, in this example, when the track 22 is new, the rubber 67 of the guide projection 48, covers the guide protrusion 278, of the guide link 234 x , as shown in Figure 25.
  • the guide protrusion 278, of the guide link 234 x may become exposed as some of the rubber 67 of the guide projection 48, wears out. At that point, the guide protrusion 278, of the guide link 234 x provides at least part of the wheel-contacting surface of the guide projection 48, such that the guide member 260 contacts a mid-roller 28j when the guide projection 48, contacts the mid-roller 28,.
  • a given one of the guide protrusions 278i, 278 2 of the guide link 234 x projects towards the other one of the guide protrusions 178i , 178 2 of the guide link 234 x or towards a given one of the guide protrusions 278i, 278 2 of an adjacent one of the guide links 234 234 G in the longitudinal direction of the track 22. This may help to reduce vibrations due to rolling of the mid-rollers 28 28 10 .
  • a given one of the guide protrusions 278i, 278 2 of the guide link 234 x comprises a longitudinal extension 282 that projects towards the other one of the guide protrusions 178i, 178 2 of the guide link 234 x or towards a given one of the guide protrusions 278i, 278 2 of an adjacent one of the guide links 234 234 G .
  • the guide link 234 x also comprises a pair of pivotal portions 271 ⁇ 271 2 at which it is pivotally connected to adjacent ones of the drive links 235I-235D SO as to be pivotable relative to these adjacent drive links.
  • the pivotal portions 271 ⁇ 271 2 are configured to receive successive ones of the drive links 235 235D- More particularly, in this embodiment, each of the pivotal portions 271 ⁇ 2712 comprises an opening 272 to receive a given one of the drive links 235i-235 D which provides an axle about which the guide link 234 x can pivot.
  • the offset links 215i-215 0 are laterally offset from the guide links 234 234G and interconnect adjacent ones of the drive links 235I-235D-
  • the offset links 215 215o are arranged in two rows of offset links 217-i, 217 2 that are spaced apart in the widthwise direction of the track 22 and that are interconnected by the drive links 235I-235D-
  • the rows of offset links 217 ! , 217 2 are laterally offset outboard relative to the rows of guide links 262 ! , 262 2 . That is, each of the rows of offset links 217i, 217 2 is disposed between a respective one of the rows of guide links 262i, 262 2 and a respective one of the lateral edges 89i, 89 2 of the track 22.
  • each offset link 215 X is configured in a manner similar to a guide link 234 x except that it does not comprise a pair of guide protrusions like the guide protrusions 278i, 278 2 of the guide link 234 x .
  • Each drive link 235 x comprises a drive member 273 configured to engage the drive wheel 24 in order to impart motion to the track 22.
  • the drive member 273 is disposed between two successive drive openings 31 j, 31 j of the track 22 such that, when two teeth of the drive wheel 24 are received in the drive openings 31 j, 31 j , the drive member 273 is located in a gap between these two teeth and transmits a rotational force from the drive wheel 24 to the track 22 for motion of the track 22.
  • the drive member 273 has a cylindrical shape.
  • the drive member 273 may have any other suitable shape in other examples.
  • the drive link 235 ⁇ interconnects respective ones of the guide links 234 234 G and the offset links 217 ! , 217 2 .
  • the drive link 235 x comprises a pair of pivotal portions 274i , 274 2 at which it is pivotally connected to adjacent ones of the guide links 234 234 G in each of the rows of guide links 262i , 262 2 and to adjacent ones of the offset links 215 215 0 in each of the rows of offset links 217 ⁇ 217 2 such that it is pivotable relative to these adjacent guide links and adjacent offset links.
  • each of the pivotal portions 274i, 274 2 is configured to be received in the openings 272 of adjacent ones of the guide links 34 34 G and adjacent ones of the offset links 215 ⁇ -215 ⁇
  • the drive link 235 ⁇ thus provides an axle about which these adjacent guide links and adjacent offset links can pivot.
  • caps, pins or other locking elements may be provided (e.g., at longitudinal ends of the drive link 235 x ) to further ensure that individual ones of the guide links 234 234 G and the offset links 215i-215o pivotally connected to the drive link 35 x remain in position.
  • the chain 30, including the guide links 234 234 G , the drive links 235I-235D, and the offset links 215 215o, may be constructed in various other ways in other embodiments.
  • each offset link 215 X is a guide link aligned with (i.e., overlaps with) a given one of the rolling paths 33i , 33 2 of the track 22 in the widthwise direction of the track 22 such that respective ones of mid-rollers 28 28i 0 roll over the guide link 215 X in use.
  • the guide link 215 X comprises a pair of rolling platforms 285 , 285 2 that are aligned with a given one of the rolling paths 33i , 33 2 of the track 22 in the widthwise direction of the track 22.
  • a given one of the rolling platforms 285i , 285 2 of the guide link 215 X includes a longitudinal extension 231 that projects towards the other one of the rolling platforms 285i, 285 2 of the guide link 215 X or towards a given one of the rolling platforms 285 ! , 285 2 of an adjacent one of the guide links 215i-215 0 in the longitudinal direction of the track 22.
  • each of the guide links 234 234 G may comprise the lateral extensions 182 of the guide protrusions
  • the chain 30 is a sole (i.e., the only) reinforcement that is embedded in the rubber of the track 22 and extends the length of the track 22 to reinforce the track 22 in the track's longitudinal direction as the track 22 is in tension around the track-engaging assembly 21.
  • the carcass 36 is free of tensile reinforcing cables spaced from the chain 30, extending adjacent to one another in the longitudinal direction of the track 22, distributed across at least a majority of the width of the track 22, and reinforcing the track 22 in the track's longitudinal direction as the track 22 is in tension around the track-engaging assembly 21 .
  • the carcass 36 is free of any reinforcing cable (except for cables passing through links of the chain 30, such as the cables 177i , 177 2 passing through the cores 133i-133 L ). This can avoid the track 22 becoming damaged due to cable breakage.
  • the thickness T c of the carcass 36 may be reduced.
  • a ratio Tc/W of the thickness T c of the carcass 36 over the width W of the track 22 may be no more than 0.05, in some cases no more than 0.04, in some cases no more than 0.03, and in some cases even less (e.g., no more than 0.02).
  • the ratio Tc/W may have any other suitable value in other embodiments.
  • the carcass 36 may comprise a layer of reinforcing cables 37 37 M spaced from the chain 30, extending adjacent to one another in the longitudinal direction of the track 22, distributed across at least a majority of the width of the track 22, and reinforcing the track 22 in the track's longitudinal direction as the track 22 is in tension around the track- engaging assembly 21.
  • each of the reinforcing cables 37 37 M may be a cord including a plurality of strands (e.g., textile fibers or metallic wires).
  • peripheral elastomeric material forming at least part of the periphery 1 1 of the track 22, such as elastomeric material 320 (in this case rubber) of the inner side 45 of the track 22, elastomeric material 322 (in this case rubber) of the ground-engaging outer side 47 of the track 22, and/or elastomeric material 340 (in this case rubber) of the lateral edges 89i, 89 2 of the track 22, may be of a superior quality than internal elastomeric material located away from the periphery 1 1 of the track 22, such as elastomeric material 330 (in this case rubber) inside the carcass 36.
  • the rubber 320 of the inner side 45 of the track 22, the rubber 322 of the ground-engaging outer side 47 of the track 22, and the rubber 340 of the lateral edges 89i, 89 2 of the track 22 may have a greater resistance to wear and/or a greater resistance to rupture (i.e., to cutting or tearing) than the rubber 330 inside the carcass 36.
  • different rubber compounds may be used in the inner side 45, the ground-engaging outer side 47 and/or the lateral edges 89i, 89 2 of the track 22 than inside the carcass 36 (e.g., rubber compounds having different base polymers, different concentrations and/or types of carbon black, and/or different contents of sulfur or other vulcanizing agent).
  • the rubber 320 of the inner side 45 of the track 22 is part of the rubber 38 that constitutes the inner surface 53 of the carcass 36
  • the rubber 322 of the ground-engaging outer side 47 of the track 22 includes part of the rubber 38 that constitutes the ground-engaging outer surface 49 of the carcass 36 and the rubber 41 of each of the traction projections 61 61 Mj
  • the rubber 330 inside the carcass 36 is part of the rubber 38 spaced from the inner surface 53 and the ground-engaging outer surface 49 of the carcass 36.
  • the rubber 330 inside the carcass 36 is thus encapsulated in the rubber 320, 322, 340 of the inner side 45, the ground-engaging outer side 47 and the lateral edges 89 !
  • the rubber 320 of the inner side 45 of the track 22, the rubber 322 of the ground-engaging outer side 47 of the track 22, and/or the rubber 340 of the lateral edges 89 ⁇ 89 2 of the track 22 has different tensile property, such as a different modulus of elasticity or a different tensile strength, than the rubber 330 inside the carcass 36.
  • the rubber 320 of the inner side 45 of the track 22, the rubber 322 of the ground-engaging outer side 47 of the track 22, and/or the rubber 340 of the lateral edges 89i, 89 2 of the track 22 may have a lower modulus of elasticity than the rubber 330 inside the carcass 36.
  • the rubber 320 of the inner side 45 of the track 22, the rubber 322 of the ground-engaging outer side 47 of the track 22, and/or the rubber 340 of the lateral edges 89 ! , 89 2 of the track 22 may have a greater modulus of elasticity than the rubber 330 inside the carcass 36.
  • An elastomer's modulus of elasticity can be obtained from a standard ASTM D-412-A test (or equivalent test) based on a measurement at 100% elongation of the elastomer.
  • a quantity of the rubber 330 inside the carcass 36 which is of a lower quality, is significant to allow this rubber to occupy more space within the track 22.
  • a thickness T q of the rubber 330 inside the carcass 36 may occupy at least 20% of the thickness T c of the carcass 36, in some cases at least 30% of the thickness T c of the carcass 36, in some cases at least 40% of the thickness T c of the carcass 36, in some cases at least 50% of the thickness T c of the carcass 36, and in some cases even more (e.g., 60%, 70% or more).
  • the thickness T q of the rubber 330 inside the carcass 36 occupies at least a majority, in this case at least three-quarters, of the thickness T c of the carcass 36.
  • the thickness T q of the rubber 330 inside the carcass 36 may have any other suitable value in other embodiments.
  • a width W q of the rubber 330 inside the carcass 36 may occupy at least be 20% of the width W of the track 22, in some cases at least 30% of the width W of the track 22, in some cases at least 40% of the width W of the track 22, in some cases at least 50% of the width W of the track 22, and in some cases even more (e.g., 60%, 70% or more).
  • the width W q of the rubber 330 inside the carcass 36 occupies at least a majority, in this case at least three-quarters, of the width W of the track.
  • the width W q of the rubber 330 inside the carcass 36 may have any other suitable value in other embodiments.
  • a weight of the rubber 330 inside the carcass 36 may constitute at least 30% of a total weight of rubber of the track 22, in some cases at least 35% of the total weight of rubber of the track 22, in some cases at least 40% of the total weight of rubber of the track 22, and in some cases even more.
  • This arrangement of the rubber 330 inside the carcass 36 and the rubber 320, 322, 340 of the inner side 45, the ground-engaging outer side 47 and the lateral edges 89i , 89 2 of the track 22 may be achieved by placing rubber components (e.g., sheets or other layers of rubber and/or blocks of rubber previously produced using any suitable process such as calendering, molding, etc.) in a mold and consolidating them.
  • the rubber 330 inside the carcass 36 is shown has being distinct from the stiffening material 39 of each of the transversal stiffeners 44 44c, in some embodiments, the stiffening material 39 of each of the transversal stiffeners 44 44 c may be omitted and the rubber 330 inside the carcass 36 may in itself provide a stiffening effect.
  • Figures 38 to 41 show another embodiment of the chain 30 in which the plurality of links 32 32 L includes a plurality of wheel-engaging links 433r433 L that engage at least one of the wheels 24, 26, 28i-28i 0 for at least one of (i) driving the track 22 and (ii) guiding the track 22 as well as a plurality of non-wheel- engaging links 477 ⁇ 477 2 which do not engage the wheels 24, 26, 28i 0 .
  • each of the wheel-engaging links 433I-433L is a drive/guide link for both engaging the drive wheel 24 to impart motion to the track 22 and engaging the mid-rollers 28 28i 0 to guide the track 22.
  • each of the non-wheel-engaging links 477 , 477 2 is a cable that interconnects the drive/guide links 433i-433[_.
  • the cables 477 ⁇ 477 2 constitute a tensile reinforcement 429 that resists a tensile force exerted on the track 22.
  • Each drive/guide link 433 x comprises a guide member 460 configured to engage the mid-rollers 28i-28i 0 and a drive member 473 configured to engage the drive wheel 24 in order to impart motion to the track 22.
  • the drive/guide link 433 x also comprises a pair of wings 492 ⁇ 492 2 which extend transversally to the longitudinal direction of the track 22 and between which is disposed the drive member 473.
  • the drive/guide link 433 x may be referred to as a "core". More particularly, in this embodiment where it is metallic, the drive/guide link 133 x may be referred to as a "metallic core".
  • the guide member 460 of the core 433 x comprises a pair of guide protrusions 478 !
  • Each guide protrusion 478 x has a periphery 463 which can come into contact with respective ones of the mid-rollers 28i-28io in use. More particularly, in this example, the periphery 463 of the guide protrusion 478 x comprises a top surface 464 and two lateral surfaces 470i , 470 2 opposite one another. One or more of these surfaces of the guide protrusion 478 x may contact a given one of the mid-rollers 28i-28 0 to help prevent excessive lateral movement of the track 22 and/or bear loading from that wheel.
  • each of the top surface 464 and the lateral surface 470 2 is a wheel-contacting surface that contacts a given one of the mid-rollers 28i-28i 0 when the core 433 x contacts that wheel.
  • the guide member 460 of the core 433 x constitutes at least part of one or more of the guide projections 48I-48N of the track 22.
  • each guide protrusion 478, of the core 433 x constitutes at least part of a guide projection 48, of the track 22.
  • the guide protrusion 478j of the core 433 x does not form part of the periphery 69 of the guide projection 48, of the track 22 when the track 22 is new.
  • the rubber 67 of the guide projection 48i covers the guide protrusion 478, of the core 433 Xi as shown in Figure 47.
  • the guide protrusion 478, of the core 433 X may become exposed as some of the rubber 67 of the guide projection 48 s wears out.
  • the guide protrusion 478, of the core 433 x provides at least part of the wheel-contacting surface of the guide projection 48, such that the guide member 460 contacts a mid-roller 28, when the guide projection 48, contacts the mid-roller 28,.
  • a guide protrusion 478 x of a core 433 comprises a longitudinal extension 479 that extends in the longitudinal direction of the track 22 towards a guide protrusion 478 x of an adjacent core 433j.
  • the longitudinal extensions 479 of the guide protrusion 478 x of the core 433, and the guide protrusion 478 x of the adjacent core 433j may reach one another (e.g., be contiguous in certain instances) or may extend very close to another. This may help to maintain proper positioning of the cores 433,, 433 j as the longitudinal extensions 479 of the guide protrusion 478 x of the core 433, and the guide protrusion 478 x of the adjacent core 433j can abut against one another if the cores 433j, 433 j tend to move laterally in relation to one another. For instance, this may help to prevent or reduce potential for detracking.
  • the longitudinal extensions 182 of the guide protrusion 478 x of the core 433, and the guide protrusion 478 x of the adjacent core 433j overlap in the longitudinal direction of the track 22, as shown in Figure 41 .
  • This longitudinal overlap creates a continuous rolling path for a mid-roller 28 x that contacts the guide protrusion 478 x of the core 433 j before leaving (i.e., ceasing to contact) the guide protrusion 478 x of the core 433,.
  • the drive member 473 of the core 433 x extends between the guide protrusions 478i, 478 2 of the guide member 460 of the core 433 x .
  • the drive member 473 is disposed between two successive drive openings 31 ,, 31 j of the track 22 such that, when two teeth of the drive wheel 24 are received in the drive openings 31 j, 31 j , the drive member 473 is located in a gap between these two teeth and transmits a rotational force from the drive wheel 24 to the track 22 for motion of the track 22.
  • the drive member 473 has a curved (e.g., generally arc-shaped) upper surface and a generally flat bottom surface.
  • the drive member 473 may have any other suitable shape in other examples.
  • the core 433 x comprises a channel 480 through which the cables 477 ⁇ 477 2 pass.
  • the channel 480 comprises a pair of openings 482i, 482 2 that are spaced part in the widthwise direction of the track 22 and that receive respective ones of the cables 477i, 477 2 . Passing the cables 477i , 477 2 through the core 433 x repositions the neutral axis of the track 22 more inwardly, which may allow the track 22 to be thinner.
  • the cables 477i, 477 2 are fixed in (i.e., cannot move within) the openings 482i, 482 2 .
  • portions 456i , 456 2 of the rubber 38 of the carcass 36 are disposed in the openings 482i, 482 2 and surround the cables 477 ⁇ , 477 2 within the openings 482i , 482 2 to fix the cables 477 ! , 477 2 within the openings 482! , 482 2 (e.g., some or all of these portions 456i, 456 2 of the rubber 38 of the carcass 36 may flow within the openings 482i, 482 2 during molding of the track 22).
  • each opening 482, of the core 433 x varies in cross-sectional area in the longitudinal direction of the track 22. More particularly, in this embodiment, the opening 482, tapers in the longitudinal direction of the track 22 such that its cross-sectional area decreases from outer regions 446i, 446 2 of the core 433 x towards an inner region 442 of the core 433 x . This widening of the opening 482, towards the outer regions 446i, 446 2 of the core 433 x provide more space for the cable 477i to bend as the track 22 flexes. This may help to reduce stresses on the cable 477, compared to if the cross- sectional area of the opening 482, was constant (e.g., by avoiding a sharp angle about which the cable 477, would be forced to bend).
  • each of the cores 433i-433i_ is metallic, i.e., is at least mainly (i.e., it is mostly or entirely) made of metal. More particularly, in this example, the metal of the cores 433i-433 L includes steel.
  • each core 433 x is molded (i.e., cast), forged or otherwise formed as a one-piece structure. That is, parts of the core 433 x , including the wings 492 ⁇ 492 2 , the guide protrusions 478i, 478 2 and the drive member 473, are formed together as a unit such that they are integral with one another.
  • the cores 433 r 433i_ may be made of any other suitable material and/or using any other suitable process in other embodiments.
  • each of the cables 477 ! , 477 2 extend adjacent to one another in the longitudinal direction of the track 22.
  • each of the cables 477i, 477 2 comprises a cord including a plurality of strands (e.g., metallic wires or textile fibers). More particularly, in this embodiment, each of the cables 477i , 477 2 comprises a metallic cord including a plurality of metallic strands.
  • the cables 477 1 ; 477 2 are steel cables.
  • each of the cables 477!, 477 2 may be another type of cable made of any material suitably flexible along the cable's longitudinal axis (e.g., strands or plastic or composite material).
  • each of the cables 477i, 477 2 comprises a steel cord 454 and an elastomeric layer 455 over the steel cord 454.
  • the elastomeric layer 455, in this case a rubber layer, is provided (e.g., extruded) onto the steel cord 454 of each of the cables 477! , 477 2 before the cables 477i, 477 2 are provided into the track 22.
  • the rubber layers 455 of the cables 477 ⁇ , 477 2 constitute at least part of the portions 456i, 456 2 of the rubber 38 of the carcass 36 within the openings 482i, 482 2 of each core 433 x .
  • the steel cord 454 of each of the cables 477 ; 477 2 may have a brass coating or other coating at its outer layer that promotes adhesion to the rubber layer 455 of that cable.
  • Each cable 477 x has a diameter D which may have any suitable value.
  • a ratio D T c of the diameter D of the cable 477 x over the thickness T c of the carcass 36 may be at least 0.05, in some cases at least 0.1 , in some cases at least 0.15, in some cases at least 0.2, and in some cases even more (e.g., 0.25 or more).
  • the ratio D/T c may have any other suitable value in other embodiments.
  • a ratio D/W of the diameter D of the cable 477 x over the width W of the track 22 may be at least 0.02, in some cases at least 0.03, in some cases at least 0.04, in some cases at least 0.05, and in some cases even more.
  • the diameter D of the cable 477 x may be at least 3 mm, in some cases at least 4 mm, in some cases at least 5 mm, in some cases at least 6 mm, and in some cases even more.
  • the diameter D of the cable 477 x may have any other suitable value in other embodiments.
  • a spacing C of the cables 477i, 477 2 in the widthwise direction of the track 22 may be have any suitable value.
  • a ratio C/W of the spacing C of the cables 477 ⁇ 477 2 over the width W of the track 22 may be at least 0.1 , in some cases at least 0.15, in some cases at least 0.2, in some cases at least 0.25, and in some cases even more (e.g., 0.3 or more).
  • the ratio C/G may have any other suitable value in other embodiments. In this case, the ratio C/G is about 1.
  • each cable 477i, 477 2 are located such that each cable 477, is generally aligned with a guide protrusion 478, of a core 433 x in the widthwise direction of the track 22.
  • generally aligned it is meant that the cable 477, and the guide protrusion 478, of the core 433 x overlap in the widthwise direction of the track 22.
  • each of the openings 482! , 482 2 of the core 433 x is generally aligned with, i.e., overlaps with, a respective one of the guide protrusions 478i , 478 2 of the core 433 x in the widthwise direction of the track 22. This may allow a minimization in weight of the core 433 x .
  • a tensile strength TS C of each cable 477 x is suitable for withstanding tensile stresses that it is expected to be subject to during use.
  • the tensile strength TS C of the cable 477 x refers to a tensile load required to break the cable 477 x .
  • the tensile strength TS C of the cable 477 x may be at least 1 0000 N, in some cases at least 20000 N, and in some cases at least 40000 N, and in some cases even greater.
  • the tensile strength TS C of the cable 477 x may have any other suitable value in other embodiments.
  • the tensile reinforcement 429 constituted by the cables 477 ⁇ 477 2 passing through the cores 433 r 433L provides a bulk of a tensile strength TS t of the track 22. That is, the tensile reinforcement 429 constituted by the cables 477! , 477 2 passing through the cores 433r433i_ contributes a greatest part of the tensile strength TS t of the track 22.
  • a ratio TS tr /TS t of (i) a tensile strength TS tr of the tensile reinforcement 429 constituted by the cables 477i , 477 2 passing through the cores 433I -433L over (ii) the tensile strength TS t of the track 22 may be at least 30%, in some cases at least 35%, in some cases 40%, in some cases at least 45%, in some cases at least 50%, in some cases at least 55%, and in some cases even more (e.g., 60%, 70%, 80% or more).
  • the tensile strength TS t of the track 22 refers to a tensile load required to break the track 22.
  • the tensile strength TS tr of the tensile reinforcement 429 constituted by the cables 477i , 477 2 passing through the cores 433 433L refers to a sum of the tensile strength TS C of each cable 477 x .
  • each cable 477 x is passed in a respective one of the openings 482! , 482 2 of the cores 433 433i_ and longitudinal end portions 483i , 483 2 of the cable 477 x are secured to one another to form a cable joint, as shown in Figure 49.
  • a connector 484 is mounted to the longitudinal end portions 483i, 483 2 of the cable 477 x to interconnect them at the cable joint.
  • the connector 484 comprises a plurality of connecting elements 487 487 3 secured onto the longitudinal end portions 483i, 483 2 of the cable 477 x .
  • each connecting element 487 is a sleeve in which extend the longitudinal end portions 483i, 483 2 of the cable 477 x .
  • the sleeve 487 is a metallic sleeve.
  • the sleeve 487 may be made of aluminum or another ductile metal that is more ductile than the steel cord 454 of the cable 477 x . This may create a stronger joint by virtue of the aluminum or other ductile metal deforming and embedding itself into the steel cord 454 of the cable 477 x .
  • the sleeve 487 is swaged, crimped, or otherwise forged or formed such that it is pressed onto the longitudinal end portions 483i, 483 2 of the cable 477 x so as to be secured thereto. For instance, this may be achieved by manually pressing or hydraulically pressing the sleeve 487, onto the longitudinal end portions 483i, 483 2 of the cable 477 x .
  • part of the elastomeric layer 455 provided on the steel cord 454 of the cable 477 x may be removed from the steel cord 454 in the longitudinal end portions 483i, 483 2 of the cable 477 x to allow the sleeve 487, to be pressed in direct contact with the steel cord 454.
  • the connector 484 may comprise any other number (e.g., a single, two, four, or five) connecting elements such as the connecting elements 487 487 3 and/or a connecting element of the connector 484 may be of any other type (e.g., a wire rope clip).
  • the longitudinal end portions 483i, 483 2 of the cable 477 x may be secured to one another in any other suitable way (e.g., by welding).
  • the track 22 comprises two zones of reinforcing cables 437 437i 0 , 537i-537 10 that are adjacent to respective ones of the wings 492 ! , 492 2 of the cores 433 433 L .
  • the reinforcing cables 437r437 10 , 537 ! -537 0 are spaced from the chain 30, extend adjacent to one another in the longitudinal direction of the track 22, and reinforce the track 22 in the track's longitudinal direction as the track 22 is in tension around the track- engaging assembly 21 .
  • the zones of reinforcing cables 437i-437 10 , 537r537i 0 are narrow and spaced apart from one another in the track's widthwise direction. Notably, each of the zones of reinforcing cables 437 437 0 , 537i-537 10 is significantly narrower than half of the track's width. In this example, the zones of reinforcing cables 437 437 10 , 537i-537io do not extend beyond the wings 492i , 492 2 of the cores 433 433 L in the widthwise direction of the track 22.
  • the zones of reinforcing cables 437 -437i 0 , 537 537 10 may be generally aligned with the rolling paths 33i , 33 2 on which respective ones of the roller wheels 28 28i 0 may roll. In other embodiments, the zones of reinforcing cables 437 r 437 10 , 537 537 10 may not be aligned with the rolling paths 33 ! , 33 2 .
  • Each of the reinforcing cables 437 437io, 537 537 10 is smaller in diameter than the cables 477 ⁇ , 477 2 passing through the cores 433i-433i_.
  • a ratio d/D of a diameter of a given one of the reinforcing cables 437r437 10 , 537 537i 0 over the diameter D of a given one of the cables 477i , 477 2 may be no more than 0.5, in some cases no more than 0.4, in some cases no more than 0.3, and in some cases even less.
  • the ratio d/D may have any other suitable value in other embodiments.
  • each of the reinforcing cables 437i-437 10 , 537 537 10 may comprise a cord including a plurality of strands (e.g., textile fibers or metallic wires).
  • each of the reinforcing cables 437 437 M , 537 537 M comprises a steel cord having a brass coating or other coating promoting adhesion with rubber.
  • the zones of reinforcing cables 437i-437 10 , 537 537 10 may be arranged in various other ways in other embodiments.
  • there are ten reinforcing cables in each of the zones of reinforcing cables 437 437 10 , 537 537io there may be any other number of reinforcing cables in the zones of reinforcing cables 437 437i 0 , 537 537 10 in other embodiments.
  • the track 22 may be free of (i.e., may not have) any zone of reinforcing cables such as the zones of reinforcing cables 437 r 437 0 , 537 537! 0 .
  • peripheral elastomeric material forming at least part of the periphery 1 1 of the track 22, such as elastomeric material 520 (in this case rubber) of the inner side 45 of the track 22, elastomeric material 522 (in this case rubber) of the ground-engaging outer side 47 of the track 22, and/or elastomeric material 540 (in this case rubber) of the lateral edges 89i, 89 2 of the track 22, may be of a superior quality than internal elastomeric material located away from the periphery 1 1 of the track 22, such as elastomeric material 530 (in this case rubber) inside the carcass 36.
  • the rubber 520 of the inner side 45 of the track 22, the rubber 522 of the ground-engaging outer side 47 of the track 22, and the rubber 540 of the lateral edges 89i, 89 2 of the track 22 may have a greater resistance to wear and/or a greater resistance to rupture (i.e., to cutting or tearing) than the rubber 530 inside the carcass 36. This may help to reduce a manufacturing cost of the track 22 while providing suitable wear resistance, rupture resistance, and/or other useful properties in regions of the track 22 that may be expected to wear faster, be more prone to cutting or tearing, and/or experience other particular conditions during use.
  • different rubber compounds may be used in the inner side 45, the ground-engaging outer side 47 and/or the lateral edges 89i, 89 2 of the track 22 than inside the carcass 36 (e.g., rubber compounds having different base polymers, different concentrations and/or types of carbon black, and/or different contents of sulfur or other vulcanizing agent).
  • the rubber 520 of the inner side 45 of the track 22 is part of the rubber 38 that constitutes the inner surface 53 of the carcass 36
  • the rubber 522 of the ground-engaging outer side 47 of the track 22 includes part of the rubber 38 that constitutes the ground-engaging outer surface 49 of the carcass 36 and the rubber 41 of each of the traction projections 61 61 M
  • the rubber 530 inside the carcass 36 is part of the rubber 38 spaced from the inner surface 53 and the ground-engaging outer surface 49 of the carcass 36.
  • the rubber 530 inside the carcass 36 is thus encapsulated in the rubber 520, 522, 540 of the inner side 45, the ground-engaging outer side 47 and the lateral edges 89 ! , 89 2 of the track 22.
  • each of the rubber 520 of the inner side 45 of the track 22, the rubber 522 of the ground-engaging outer side 47 of the track 22, and the rubber 540 of the lateral edges 89i, 89 2 of the track 22 has a different tensile property, such as a different modulus of elasticity or a different tensile strength, than the rubber 530 inside the carcass 36.
  • each of the rubber 520 of the inner side 45 of the track 22, the rubber 522 of the ground-engaging outer side 47 of the track 22, and the rubber 540 of the lateral edges 89i, 89 2 of the track 22 may have a lower modulus of elasticity than the rubber 530 inside the carcass 36.
  • the internal rubber 530 away from the track's periphery 1 1 may be stiffer than the peripheral rubber 520, 522, 540 at the track's periphery 1 1. This may result in the peripheral rubber 520, 522, 540 of the track 22 having a greater resistance to wear and/or a greater resistance to rupture (i.e., to cutting or tearing) than the internal rubber 530 inside the track 22.
  • the rubber 520 of the inner side 45 of the track 22, the rubber 522 of the ground-engaging outer side 47 of the track 22, and/or the rubber 540 of the lateral edges 89i, 89 2 of the track 22 may have a greater modulus of elasticity than the rubber 530 inside the carcass 36.
  • An elastomer's modulus of elasticity can be obtained from a standard ASTM D- 412-A test (or equivalent test) based on a measurement at 100% elongation of the elastomer.
  • a quantity of the rubber 530 inside the carcass 36 is significant to allow this rubber to occupy more space within the track 22.
  • a thickness T q of the rubber 530 inside the carcass 36 may occupy at least 20% of the thickness T c of the carcass 36, in some cases at least 30% of the thickness T c of the carcass 36, in some cases at least 40% of the thickness T c of the carcass 36, in some cases at least 50% of the thickness T c of the carcass 36, and in some cases even more (e.g., 60%, 70% or more).
  • the thickness T q of the rubber 530 inside the carcass 36 occupies at least a majority, in this case at least three- quarters, of the thickness T c of the carcass 36.
  • the thickness T q of the rubber 530 inside the carcass 36 may have any other suitable value in other embodiments.
  • a width W q of the rubber 530 inside the carcass 36 may occupy at least be 20% of the width W of the track 22, in some cases at least 30% of the width W of the track 22, in some cases at least 40% of the width W of the track 22, in some cases at least 50% of the width W of the track 22, and in some cases even more (e.g., 60%, 70% or more).
  • the width W q of the rubber 530 inside the carcass 36 occupies at least a majority, in this case at least three-quarters, of the width W of the track.
  • the rubber 530 inside the carcass 36 is constituted of separate segments (here, two segments) such that its width W q corresponds to a sum of a width of each of these separate segments.
  • the width W q of the rubber 530 inside the carcass 36 may have any other suitable value in other embodiments.
  • a weight of the rubber 530 inside the carcass 36 may constitute at least 25% of a total weight of rubber of the track 22, in some cases at least 30% of the total weight of rubber of the track 22, in some cases at least 35% of the total weight of rubber of the track 22, in some cases at least 40% of the total weight of rubber of the track 22, and in some cases even more.
  • This arrangement of the rubber 530 inside the carcass 36 and the rubber 520, 522, 540 of the inner side 45, the ground-engaging outer side 47 and the lateral edges 89i, 89 2 of the track 22 may be achieved by placing rubber components (e.g., sheets or other layers of rubber and/or blocks of rubber previously produced using any suitable process such as calendering, molding, etc.) in a mold and consolidating them.
  • rubber components e.g., sheets or other layers of rubber and/or blocks of rubber previously produced using any suitable process such as calendering, molding, etc.
  • the track 22 comprises a pair of layers of reinforcing fabric 543i, 543 2 disposed between the wings 492i, 492 2 of the cores 433 433i_ and the track's ground-engaging outer side 47.
  • the layers of reinforcing fabric 543 ⁇ 543 2 may help to provide stiffness in the track's widthwise direction and/or enhance a puncture resistance of the track 22.
  • the layers of reinforcing fabric 543i , 543 2 are spaced apart in the track's widthwise direction.
  • Each layer of reinforcing fabric 543 comprises thin pliable material made usually by weaving, felting, knitting, interlacing, or otherwise crossing natural or synthetic elongated fabric elements, such as fibers, filaments, strands and/or others, such that some elongated fabric elements extend transversally to the longitudinal direction of the track 22 to have a reinforcing effect in a transversal direction of the track 22.
  • the layer of reinforcing fabric 543 may comprise a ply of reinforcing woven fibers (e.g., nylon fibers or other synthetic fibers).
  • the layer of reinforcing fabric 543 comprises fibers (e.g., cords) oriented in the widthwise direction of the track 22 (i.e., 90 "-fabric having fibers oriented at 90° relative to the track's longitudinal direction).
  • the layer of reinforcing fabric 543 may comprise fibers (e.g., cords) oriented at +/-10° from the widthwise direction of the track 22.
  • the chain 30, including the cores 433I-433L and the cables 477i , 477 2 may be constructed in various other ways in other embodiments.
  • the chain 30 may comprise any other number of cables such as the cables 477i, 477 2 passing through the channel 180 of each of the cores 433 433 L .
  • there may be a single cable such as the cables 477 ⁇ 477 2 passing through the channel 180 of each of the cores 433 r 433i_.
  • there may be more than two cables such as the cables 477 1 ; 477 2 passing through the channel 180 of each of the cores 133 133 L , but yet the number of cables may be limited.
  • the chain 30 is part of the track 22 in embodiments considered above, in other embodiments, certain components of the chain 30 may be present in the track 22 without the track 22 actually including an entirety of the chain 30.
  • the track 22 may comprise the cores 433 433i_ described above but lack the cables 477 1 ; 477 2 extending through the cores 433i-433 L . That is, no cable passes through the cores 433 433 L .
  • the channel 480 of each core 433 x is thus free of any cable.
  • portions 556i, 556 2 of the rubber 38 of the carcass 36 within the openings 482i, 482 2 of each core 433 x help to improve retention of the core 433 x within the track 22.
  • these portions 556i , 556 2 of the rubber 38 of the carcass 36 may flow within the openings 482 ⁇ 482 2 of the core 433 x during molding of the track 22 and mechanically interlock the core 433 x and the rubber 38 of the carcass 36.
  • the rubber 38 of the carcass 36 extends through the core 433 x , interlocking these elements together.
  • the zones of reinforcing cables 437r437 10 , 537 537 10 may be modified to ensure proper reinforcement of the track 22 in its longitudinal direction.
  • the reinforcing cables 437i-437i 0 , 537i-537io may be larger in diameter and/or there may be a greater number of reinforcing cables in these zones of reinforcing cables.
  • the track system 16j may be configured in various other ways in other embodiments.
  • the guide/drive projections 48i-48 N may also be used to drive the track 22 such that the drive wheel 24 may engage the guide/drive projections 48I-48N to impart motion to the track 22 (i.e., the drive wheel 24 and the track 22 may implement a "positive drive” system).
  • the drive wheel 24 may frictionally engage the inner side 45 of the track 22 in order to frictionally drive the track 22 (i.e., the drive wheel 24 and the track 22 may implement a "friction drive” system).
  • the track system 16 may have a different overall configuration in other embodiments.
  • the track system 16 may have a generally triangular configuration in which the drive wheel 24 is mounted higher than in leading and trailing idler wheels.
  • the vehicle 10 may be another type of work vehicle such as an agricultural vehicle (e.g., a combine harvester, another type of harvester, a tractor, etc.) for performing agricultural work, a forestry vehicle (e.g., a feller-buncher, a tree chipper, a knuckleboom loader, etc.) for performing forestry work, or a military vehicle (e.g., a combat engineering vehicle (CEV), etc.) for performing military work, or may be a snowmobile, an all-terrain vehicle (ATV), or any other type of vehicle operable off paved roads.
  • an agricultural vehicle e.g., a combine harvester, another type of harvester, a tractor, etc.
  • forestry vehicle e.g., a feller-buncher, a tree chip
  • the vehicle 10 may also be operable on paved roads in some cases. Also, while in embodiments considered above the off-road vehicle 10 is driven by a human operator in the vehicle 10, in other embodiments, the vehicle 10 may be an unmanned ground vehicle (e.g., a teleoperated or autonomous unmanned ground vehicle). Any feature of any embodiment discussed herein may be combined with any feature of any other embodiment discussed herein in some examples of implementation.
  • an unmanned ground vehicle e.g., a teleoperated or autonomous unmanned ground vehicle.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Transportation (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Tires In General (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne une chenille pour la traction d'un véhicule hors route (par exemple, un engin de chantier, un véhicule agricole, etc.). La chenille peut être montée autour d'un ensemble de prise de chenille comprenant une pluralité de roues. Les roues comprennent une roue motrice pour entraîner la chenille. La chenille comprend une surface intérieure pour faire face à l'ensemble de prise de chenille, une surface extérieure de prise au sol pour venir en prise avec le sol, et un matériau élastomère permettant à la chenille de se plier autour de l'ensemble de prise de chenille. La chenille peut comprendre une chaîne intégrée dans le matériau élastomère et comprenant une pluralité de maillons de prise de roue pour entrer en interaction avec au moins l'une des roues. Un matériau élastomère périphérique de la chenille peut avoir une qualité supérieure (par exemple, une plus grande résistance à l'usure et/ou une plus grande résistance à la rupture) par rapport au matériau élastomère interne de la chenille.
PCT/CA2014/000262 2013-03-15 2014-03-14 Chenille pour la traction d'un véhicule hors route Ceased WO2014138931A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US201361793890P 2013-03-15 2013-03-15
US61/793,890 2013-03-15

Publications (1)

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WO2014138931A1 true WO2014138931A1 (fr) 2014-09-18

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PCT/CA2014/000262 Ceased WO2014138931A1 (fr) 2013-03-15 2014-03-14 Chenille pour la traction d'un véhicule hors route

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Cited By (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2016200652A1 (fr) * 2015-06-11 2016-12-15 Srj, Inc. Sculpture de chenille
US11046377B2 (en) 2015-03-04 2021-06-29 Camso Inc. Track system for traction of a vehicle
US11518457B2 (en) 2019-03-20 2022-12-06 Sri, Inc. Vehicle track

Citations (5)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2378427A (en) * 1941-05-14 1945-06-19 Edward C Myers Flexible track
JPS55119572A (en) * 1979-03-05 1980-09-13 Bridgestone Corp Elastic endless track belt
US6474755B1 (en) * 1998-12-24 2002-11-05 Tweco Rubber crawler
US7377601B2 (en) * 2001-06-21 2008-05-27 Fukuyama Gomu Kogyo Kabushiki Gaisha Detachable crawler
US20110316330A1 (en) * 2010-06-23 2011-12-29 Mclaren Group Holdings Pte. Ltd. Continuous Rubber/Metal Hybrid Track with Replaceable Components

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2378427A (en) * 1941-05-14 1945-06-19 Edward C Myers Flexible track
JPS55119572A (en) * 1979-03-05 1980-09-13 Bridgestone Corp Elastic endless track belt
US6474755B1 (en) * 1998-12-24 2002-11-05 Tweco Rubber crawler
US7377601B2 (en) * 2001-06-21 2008-05-27 Fukuyama Gomu Kogyo Kabushiki Gaisha Detachable crawler
US20110316330A1 (en) * 2010-06-23 2011-12-29 Mclaren Group Holdings Pte. Ltd. Continuous Rubber/Metal Hybrid Track with Replaceable Components

Cited By (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US11046377B2 (en) 2015-03-04 2021-06-29 Camso Inc. Track system for traction of a vehicle
US11167810B2 (en) 2015-03-04 2021-11-09 Camso Inc. Track system for traction of a vehicle
US11897558B2 (en) 2015-03-04 2024-02-13 Camso Inc. Track system for traction of a vehicle
WO2016200652A1 (fr) * 2015-06-11 2016-12-15 Srj, Inc. Sculpture de chenille
US9855985B2 (en) 2015-06-11 2018-01-02 Srj, Inc. Endless track tread pattern
US11518457B2 (en) 2019-03-20 2022-12-06 Sri, Inc. Vehicle track

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