EP4405237A1

EP4405237A1 - Crawler chain

Info

Publication number: EP4405237A1
Application number: EP22782840.7A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Markus PARIZEK; Jürgen Kensy
Original assignee: DST Defence Service Tracks GmbH
Current assignee: DST Defence Service Tracks GmbH
Priority date: 2021-09-22
Filing date: 2022-09-21
Publication date: 2024-07-31
Also published as: DE102021124576A1; CA3230001A1; WO2023046245A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a crawler chain (10) for tracked vehicles, in particular for military tracked vehicles, having multiple track links (1), which are arranged one behind the other in the track direction (K), are connected to one another such that they can pivot, which each have two connecting means (2, 3), wherein at least one connecting means (2, 3) is designed as a tubular pin receptacle (2.1) extending transversely to the chain direction (K) for receiving a connecting pin (8) and wherein at least one tension member winding (4) is provided for transmitting tensile forces from one connecting means (2) to the other connecting means (3).

Description

caterpillar

The invention relates to a caterpillar track for tracked vehicles, in particular for military tracked vehicles, with a plurality of chain links arranged one behind the other in the direction of the chain and connected to one another in a pivotable manner, each of which has two connecting means, with at least one connecting means being designed as a tubular bolt receptacle extending transversely to the chain direction for receiving a connecting bolt.

Crawler tracks are commonly used to drive land vehicles on unpaved or uneven terrain, since wheels often cannot provide the necessary traction on this surface. To the- track chains are also often used in military vehicles, since they are used on a wide variety of surfaces and reliable maneuverability must be ensured at all times.

Corresponding caterpillar tracks consist of a plurality of chain links arranged one behind the other and pivotably connected to one another, which are connected to one another in the manner of an endless chain. The direction in which the individual chain links are lined up and connected to one another is also referred to as the chain direction. In order to connect the individual chain links together to form an endless chain, the chain links each have two connecting means, which are generally arranged in two opposite end regions of the chain links. The connecting means serve to connect the chain link to the adjacent chain links, so that a connection to the previous chain link can be established via one of the two connecting means and a connection to the following chain link can be established via the other connecting means.

At least one connecting means of the chain links is often designed as a tubular bolt receptacle which extends transversely to the direction of the chain and which serves as a receptacle for a connecting bolt. The chain link can then be pivotably connected to an adjacent chain link via the connecting bolt.

In particular, when a military vehicle is driven with a crawler track, which can easily weigh more than 20 tons due to the armor, not only large wheel contact forces act on the track perpendicular to the ground, but also very high tensile forces in the direction of the track. Especially with chain links made of rubber, which offer some advantages compared to metal chains due to their lower weight, for example, the high tensile forces in the chain can quickly lead to damages occur. Because of the tensile forces, cracks and damage can occur, especially in the area between the connecting means, which can even lead to a chain tear after a long time, which then makes the vehicle practically unmaneuverable.

Proceeding from this, the object of the invention is to provide a caterpillar chain that has a higher resistance.

With a caterpillar track of the type mentioned at the outset, this object is achieved in that at least one tension carrier coil is provided for the transmission of tensile forces from one connection means to the other connection means.

The tensile load capacity of the chain links and thus also of the track chain as a whole can be significantly increased by the tension member winding. Because of the tension member coils, the tensile forces no longer have to be transferred from one connection means to the other by means of the rubber located between the connecting means, but a large part of the tensile forces can be transmitted via the tension member coils, which are designed specifically for the transmission of large tensile forces. The tensile stability of the chain links is thus improved and the resistance of the chain is significantly increased.

In a further development of the invention, it has proven to be advantageous if the tension member coil is embedded in a plastic mass together with the two connecting means to form a tubular body. The tubular body can be the actual core of the chain link, which also has the two connecting means and the tension member winding. In this respect, the chain link can be a plastic or rubber chain link. These terms are used synonymously below. In particular, it is hard rubber. Tubular bodies or chain links made of rubber have weight advantages compared to chain links made of metal and, due to their flexibility, they also protect the ground, which is particularly important when driving in urban areas or when driving on asphalt. Furthermore, the vibrations and noise emissions are much lower with chain links made of rubber than with steel chain links.

To produce the tubular body, the two connecting means can first be placed in a mold together with the tension member winding and a raw rubber mass. The rubber compound can then be crosslinked, for example by vulcanization, which gives it its stability. Furthermore, it is also possible for the connecting means and the tension member coil to be cast or overmoulded together. The shape can give the tubular body and thus also the chain link its geometric configuration. The connecting means and the tension member can be connected to one another in a cohesive and non-detachable manner via the rubber material.

With regard to the tension member winding, it has proven to be advantageous if it comprises a fabric material which, in particular, has aramid, nylon, glass, carbon fibers or metal. These materials can absorb very high tensile forces and in this respect increase the resilience of the chain links or the chain as a whole. Pressure forces, on the other hand, can be well absorbed by the plastic or rubber compound. The tension member winding can be designed as a thread, as a fabric winding, as a tape or wire and wound onto the two connecting means.

Furthermore, it has proven to be advantageous if the elasticity and the extensibility of the tubular bodies can be adjusted by means of the tension member coils. For example, by selecting certain materials, it is possible to set what kind of tensile stresses the tubular body and thus also the chain links can withstand. Furthermore, this can also be adjusted by the amount of tension carrier material used or by the number of windings or the diameter of the corresponding winding material.

Furthermore, it has proven to be advantageous if the connecting means are made of metal, in particular steel. The bolt receptacle can be a steel tube, for example. Metal enables high stability and good transmission of forces through the tension member winding. The connecting means can extend through the entire tubular body, so that the tensile forces act as far as possible in the direction of the chain and can thus be reliably transmitted by the tension member coil from one connecting means to the other connecting means. Provision can also be made for the bolt receptacle to be rubberized on the inside. This is particularly advantageous if the connecting bolt is also made of metal, in particular steel, so that there is no metal-to-metal friction.

With regard to the tubular bodies, it has also proven to be advantageous if they have a profiled running surface and a rolling surface opposite the running surface. The profiled tread can provide more traction on the ground and thus a reliable progress of the corresponding vehicle. In this respect, the running surface can be the outer side of the tubular body or the chain links. The rolling surface opposite the running surface, on the other hand, can be flat and smooth, so that the rollers of the vehicle can reliably roll on this side of the chain links. The profiled running surface can arise during the manufacturing process of the tubular body, so that the injection, vulcanization or casting mold can be designed accordingly. Alternatively, the profiling of the tread can also be added in a subsequent step. In order to ensure stable lateral guidance, it has also proven to be advantageous if the chain links of the caterpillar track have at least one guide tooth. The guide tooth can be arranged on the rolling surface of the chain link and in this respect can ensure that the chain cannot jump off the vehicle or the rollers to the side. Because of the guide tooth, fast cornering with a high centrifugal load is then also possible. It is possible that the guide tooth is an integral part of the respective tubular body. The guide tooth can thus be formed directly during manufacture of the tubular body, for example by designing the mold accordingly. Furthermore, the guide tooth can also be attached to or formed on the tubular body later. It is also possible for the guide tooth to be detachable from the tubular body. The guide tooth can be arranged in the middle or on the side of the chain link and, for example, between two tubular bodies. Several guide teeth can also be provided per chain link.

According to an advantageous development of the invention, it is provided that the tension member coil is guided around the two connection means in the manner of a revolving strand in order to transmit the tensile forces between the two connection means. Between the two connecting means, the tension member can form an upper strand and a lower strand, which run parallel to one another. The tensile forces to be transmitted can be divided as evenly as possible between the upper run and the lower run. The distance between the upper and lower run can correspond to the diameter of the connecting means. The tension member winding can be wound onto the two connecting means. Furthermore, several tension carrier windings can also be provided per chain link. For example, it is possible to use either a wider tension member lap or, alternatively, several narrower tension member laps. The narrower tension member winding can be spaced apart and in particular in the be used in the outer areas of the chain link or guided around them in the outer areas of the connecting means.

According to an advantageous development of the invention, it is proposed that both connecting sections are designed as tubular bolt receptacles. Both bolt receptacles can be aligned transversely to the direction of the chain and in this respect run parallel to one another. The bolt receptacles can be arranged in opposite end regions of the tubular body or chain link. The two bolt receptacles ensure that the chain link can be connected to adjacent chain links on both sides via connecting bolts that extend through the bolt receptacles.

Furthermore, with regard to the two bolt receptacles, it has proven to be advantageous if the tension member coil is guided around the two bolt receptacles. The tension member coil can, for example, be wound directly onto the two bolt receptacles. However, in order to ensure reliable force distribution, it has proven to be advantageous if two tension member coils are provided, which are guided around the two bolt receptacles at a distance from one another. This leads to reliable power transmission.

In order to simplify the positioning of the tension member coils on the bolt receptacle, these can have, in particular annular, projections for positioning the tension member coil. The projections can be ring-shaped and in this respect act as a shoulder that prevents axial movement of the tension member winding on the bolt receptacles. In this respect, two ring-shaped projections can be provided per tension member coil, so that the tension member coil cannot move axially on the bolt receptacle in any direction. The corresponding projections can be connected in one piece to the bolt receptacle or attached to it. be shaped. However, it is also possible to push the projections onto the bolt receptacles in the manner of rings. If the tubular body or the chain link has two bolt receptacles and two tension carrier coils, each bolt receptacle can be equipped with four projections in order to reliably prevent axial movement of the tension carrier coils on both bolt receptacles in both directions.

To further increase the stability, it has been found to be advantageous if the tubular bodies have a cross-member extending transversely to the chain direction for additional force absorption. The traverse can ensure more stability of the chain links and, in particular, can absorb lateral forces. Also, the traverse can prevent the tubular bodies from twisting, which could also lead to cracks. The traverse can consist of a fiber composite material or a light metal. In this respect, the traverse can be comparatively light and only slightly increase the weight of the chain links. However, the traverse can also be made of heavier metals, such as steel. In terms of construction, the traverse can be in the form of bars, blocks or strands. The traverse can also be designed in the form of a bolt or tube. The traverse can be embedded in the rubber or plastic material together with the connecting means and the tension member or means. In this respect, the traverse can also be integrally and inseparably connected to the other elements of the chain link. The traverse can extend through between the upper and lower runs of the tension member coils.

With regard to the arrangement of the traverse, it has proven to be advantageous if this is arranged between the two connecting means or the two bolt receptacles. The traverse can correspondingly extend parallel to the two connecting means or the bolt receptacles and be at the same distance from the two connecting means or bolt receptacles. This allows an even distribution of force tion can be realized which is as independent as possible of the direction of force application.

Furthermore, it has proven to be advantageous if the guide tooth is connected to the traverse, in particular before the tubular body is vulcanized. With this configuration, the guide tooth can also absorb relatively high lateral forces and cannot be sheared off the chain link even in the case of high forces. The fact that the guide tooth is connected to the traverse does not mean in this context that the guide tooth is only connected via the rubber or plastic material of the chain link, but rather that forces from the guide tooth can be introduced directly into the traverse. In terms of construction, the guide tooth can have, for example, a bush-shaped opening through which the traverse can extend. The traverse can thus already be connected to the guide tooth before the chain link is formed, or the traverse and guide tooth can be designed as a preformed element and then embedded together in the rubber or plastic mass.

In a development of the invention, a preformed tension member element is proposed which has the tension member coil. This preformed tension member facilitates the assembly or connection of the tension member coil to the connecting means. This is because the tension member winding does not have to be wound onto the connecting means, but rather the preformed tension member winding element can be pushed onto the two connecting means as a whole.

In terms of construction, the tension carrier element can have two coil formers around which the tension carrier winding is guided. The two coil formers can be embedded in a plastic mass together with the tension carrier coil and thus form the preformed tension carrier element. During manufacture of the chain link, this can be pushed onto the two connecting means as a preformed element and then embedded together with them in the rubber or plastic compound. In this configuration, it is therefore not absolutely necessary to equip the bolt receptacles with projections for positioning the tension member coils.

The spools of the tension member element can be tubular, so that the connecting means or the bolt receptacles can be inserted into the spools. The outside diameter of the bolt receptacle can roughly correspond to the inside diameter of the coil body, so that the tension carrier elements do not slip or tilt when they are pushed onto the bolt receptacles. Similar to the tension member coils, several tension member elements can be used per tubular body. These can be slipped onto the two connecting means in the axial direction, depending on the forces to be expected and also depending on how wide the tension carrier elements or how wide the connecting means are. In practice, two preformed tension member elements per tubular body have proven to be advantageous, which are arranged at a distance from one another.

Furthermore, it has turned out to be advantageous if the tension carrier element has a positioning opening for positioning the traverse. The positioning opening can be arranged in the middle between the two coil bodies, so that the traverse can then be positioned in the middle of the tubular body. The opening can be adapted to the shape of the traverse, so that the traverse can be inserted axially into the opening, for example, but cannot move in the radial direction and cannot slip during manufacture of the tubular body. If two Zugträgerelemente are provided, it can be ensured that both the traverse and the connecting means at least two places on the Zugträgermittel are connected to each other. This can prevent the elements from moving relative to one another when they are embedded in the rubber or plastic compound. To form the tubular body, the two bolt receptacles can be embedded together with one or more preformed tension carrier elements and also with the traverse in the rubber or plastic mass, so that the elements are firmly connected to one another after curing or vulcanization.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, it is proposed that at least two tubular bodies are connected to one another to form a connector chain via connecting elements, in particular in a pivotable manner. In this respect, the tubular bodies do not have to be connected directly to one another, rather connecting elements can be provided which are each connected to two adjacent tubular bodies and then connect them to one another in a pivotable manner. A connecting element can be connected to two different tubular bodies, so that the two tubular bodies are indirectly connected to one another via the connecting element.

In order to connect a tubular body to a connecting element, it has proven to be advantageous if a connecting bolt which is mounted in one of the bolt receptacles and via which the tubular body can be connected to a connecting element is provided. The connecting bolt can be made of metal, in particular steel, and it can also be rubberized, which insofar can reduce friction somewhat. The connecting bolt can protrude laterally in relation to the bolt receptacles, so that a connecting element can be connected to one of these protruding areas. In order to fasten the connecting element to or on the connecting bolt, a frictional connection can be provided. The connecting element can, for example, on the connecting tion bolts are attached and then compressed or contracted in the radial direction in such a way that a frictional connection is formed and the connecting element cannot move axially relative to the connecting bolt. This fixation then also connects the tubular body to the connecting element. It is advantageous if the connecting bolt is connected to a respective connecting element in a corresponding manner, so that the tubular body is basically arranged between the two connecting elements. Furthermore, as an alternative or in addition, locking pins, screws or other securing devices can also be provided in order to prevent the connecting element from being able to slide axially onto the connecting bolt.

According to a further advantageous embodiment, it is proposed that the connecting elements are connected to the connecting bolts via connecting bushes. The connecting sockets can be plugged onto the ends of the connecting bolts and can be positively connected to the connecting bolts, for example by means of plug pins. The plug pins can be inserted through the connecting elements and through the connecting bolt in the radial direction and then lead to a positive locking of the connecting elements on the connecting bolt. The connection sockets thus ensure reliable axial securing.

Furthermore, it has proven to be advantageous if the connecting elements can be pivoted about the axes of the connecting bolts relative to the tubular bodies. In this respect, it is achieved that the individual tubular bodies can also be pivoted in relation to one another and can then also be connected to one another to form a circulating and closed crawler track. Furthermore, it has proven to be advantageous if the tubular bodies are each connected to a connecting element on both sides transversely to the direction of the chain. The connecting elements can be arranged on the side of the tubular body. The connecting elements can protrude in the direction of the chain in relation to a tubular body, so that the subsequent tubular body can also be connected to the two connecting elements of the preceding tubular body. In this respect, the tubular bodies can also be connected to a connecting element on both sides in the chain direction. Four connecting elements can thus be assigned to each tubular body.

According to an advantageous development of the invention, it is proposed that two tubular bodies arranged next to one another transversely to the chain direction are connected to one another via at least one connecting pin to form a double chain link. Such a double chain link can provide a wider tread and thus reduce the ground load. The bolt receptacles of the two tubular bodies arranged next to one another can be arranged concentrically to one another, so that a connecting bolt can be inserted through the bolt receptacles of the two tubular bodies. The chain links are advantageously connected to one another via two connecting bolts. Just like the individual chain links, the double chain link can be connected to adjacent chain links using connecting elements. For this purpose, the connecting bolts can accordingly protrude on one side in relation to the tubular body of one chain link and on the other side in relation to the tubular body of the other chain link. In the case of the double chain links, the guide tooth can be arranged between the two individual tubular bodies, since this corresponds to the center of the double chain link. The guide tooth can, for example, also be fastened to the connecting bolt between the two tubular bodies. In a development of the invention, it is proposed that the height of the connecting element corresponds to the height of the tubular body. This configuration makes it possible for the rollers to roll not only on the tubular bodies but also simultaneously on the connecting elements arranged next to the tubular bodies, which insofar increases the effective rolling surface. At the same time, the running surfaces and thus the traction of the chain can be increased, since the connecting elements also come into contact with the ground.

In this regard, it has proven to be advantageous if the connecting element has a rolling surface that widens the rolling surface of the chain link. The rolling surface of the connecting element can extend parallel to the rolling surface of the tubular body, so that the impeller can roll both on the rolling surface of the tubular body and on the rolling surface of the connecting element. However, since the connecting elements can be pivotably connected to the tubular bodies, the rolling surfaces do not always have to be aligned parallel to one another. In particular in the area of the front and rear deflections of the chain, the surfaces cannot be parallel.

With regard to the configuration of the connecting element, it has proven to be advantageous if it has two connection means, each for connection to a tubular body. A connection means can be designed as a tubular connecting bolt receptacle for receiving a connecting bolt. The connection means can be arranged in two opposite end regions of the connecting element and can extend transversely to the direction of the chain. In this respect, the connecting element can be constructed in exactly the same way as the tubular body, only this can be narrower and the distance between the connection means can be smaller than the distance between the connecting means of the tubular body. With regard to their However, the connection means can basically correspond to the connection means in terms of configuration and function. In this respect, the connecting element can correspond to a scaled-down version of the tubular body.

The connecting element can also have a connecting coil for transferring tensile forces from one connection means to the other connection means. The connection coil can be configured analogously to the tension member coil, which is used in the tubular body. Provision can also be made for the connection coil to be part of a preformed connection coil element. For the configuration of the connecting winding element, reference is made to the configuration of the preformed tension carrier element.

In order to transmit tensile forces between the connecting means, the connecting coil can be guided around the two connecting means in the manner of a revolving strand. As a result, tensile forces between the two connecting means can be reliably absorbed. Between the two connecting means, the connecting coil can form an upper run and a lower run, which can run parallel to one another. The tensile forces to be transmitted can be divided as evenly as possible between the upper run and the lower run. The distance between the upper and lower runs can correspond to the diameter of the connection means. The connection coil can be wound onto the two connection means.

Furthermore, it can be provided that the connecting coil is embedded in a plastic mass together with the two connecting means to form a connecting element. The plastic or rubber compound can be the same material that is also used for the tubular body. The connecting means can be embedded in the rubber or plastic compound together with the connecting coil or coils and this can then be cured, for example, by vulcanization, whereby the elements are then connected to one another in a materially bonded manner. It is also possible to provide several connecting coils. Analogous to the production of the tubular body, injection molding processes can also be used to produce the connecting element.

Furthermore, it has proven to be advantageous if both connecting means are designed as connecting bolt mounts. The connecting coil can be wound directly onto the connecting bolt receptacles and projections, in particular in the form of rings, can be provided analogously to the design of the bolt receptacles of the chain link, which facilitate positioning of the connecting coil on the connecting bolt receptacles. The connection means can be tubular, so that the connecting bolt can be inserted through the connecting bolt receptacle of the connecting element and through the bolt receptacle of the chain link. In this way, a connecting element can be connected to a tubular body.

Furthermore, it has proven to be advantageous if one of the connecting bolt receptacles is aligned with the bolt receptacle of one chain link and the other connecting bolt receptacle is aligned with the bolt receptacle of another chain link. In this way, the two adjacent tubular bodies can then be connected to one another via the connecting element. For this purpose, a connecting bolt can be inserted through a bolt receptacle and a connecting bolt receptacle of the connecting element and another connecting bolt can be inserted through the other connecting bolt receptacle of the connecting element and through the bolt receptacle of the adjacent tubular body.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that each tubular body to form a hinged chain member is integrally connected to at least one, in particular two, connecting elements. In this respect, the chain link can be vulcanized or injected or cast together with the connecting element, so that the chain link and the connecting element or the connecting elements are then connected to one another in one piece. The connecting elements can be connected in one piece to a tubular body on one side and can be detachably connected to an adjacent tubular body on the other side via a connecting bolt. The connecting bolts can then form the pivot axes about which the hinged chain links can be pivoted relative to one another.

In order to ensure an even distribution of force between the individual chain links, it is advantageous if the tubular body of each chain link is pivotably connected to an adjacent tubular body via two connecting elements. The forces can thus be divided equally between the two connecting elements. Each tubular body can thus be connected in one piece with two connecting elements, so that a hinged chain link can basically consist of a tubular body and two connecting elements. The hinged chain links preferably have a uniform height, so that the connecting elements can also be run over with them and in this respect increase the effective rolling surface.

In order to connect the hinged chain links to one another, it is advantageous if the connecting bolt receptacles of the connecting elements are arranged concentrically with the bolt receptacle of an adjacent tubular body or chain link.

To connect two hinged chain links, the connecting pin can be pushed through the connecting pin mounts of the two connecting elements and through the pin mount of the adjacent chain limb. At the ends, the connecting pin can be secured by connecting bushings in such a way that it cannot move in the axial direction relative to the hinged chain link, and in this respect there is also no risk of it slipping out of the connecting pin receptacles. The securing of the connecting bolt is independent of whether the connecting elements are integrally connected to the chain link or not. In this respect, reference is made to the above.

Furthermore, it has proven to be advantageous if the bolt receptacle of one hinged chain link is arranged between the two connecting bolt receptacles of the adjacent hinged chain link. In this respect, a pivotable connection of the two hinged chain links via a single straight connecting pin is then possible.

Furthermore, it has proven to be advantageous if a connecting traverse is provided, which is part of the tubular body as a connecting means in sections and part of the connecting element as a connecting means in sections. In this case, the tubular body and the connecting elements can each have only one bolt receptacle or one connecting bolt receptacle. The connecting traverse can extend through the tubular body into the two connecting elements and in this respect ensure a transmission of force between the tubular body and the connecting elements. This allows comparatively large forces to be absorbed by the hinged chain link and the tubular body and the connecting elements are not only connected to one another in one piece by the plastic or rubber compound. The connecting traverse can also be embedded in the plastic or rubber mass and in this respect can also be inseparably connected to the other elements of the hinged chain link. The tubular body can also continue to have a traverse, which is then between the connecting traverse on the one hand and the bolt recording can be arranged on the other side. The same applies to the connecting element.

Furthermore, it has proven to be advantageous if the connecting winding of the connecting element is guided around the connecting bolt receptacle and the connecting crossbar and the tension member winding of the tubular body is guided around the bolt receptacle and the connecting crossbar. In this way, tensile forces can be transferred from the bolt receptacle to the connecting crossbeam and then to the connecting bolt receptacle. Since the connecting bolt receptacle of the hinged chain link is connected to the corresponding bolt receptacle of the adjacent hinged chain link via the connecting bolt, tensile forces can thus be transferred from one hinged chain link to the next hinged chain link.

In terms of construction, it is also advantageous if the tension member coils of the tubular body are guided around the connecting cross member between the connecting coils of the two connecting elements. In this way, a uniform distribution of force can be ensured, so that tensile forces from the tubular body or the chain link can be distributed uniformly to the two connecting elements via the tension carrier coil or coils. In this respect, the tension carrier coil or coils can be arranged between the two connecting coils.

According to an advantageous development, it is proposed that the tubular body has a traction aid to increase traction. The traction aid can be used to increase downforce, especially on soft, snow-covered or icy ground. The traction aid can be arranged on the running surface of the tubular body or the chain link, so that the traction aid comes into contact with the ground. The traction aid can be made of metal, in particular steel, so that it has a higher strength than the rubber material of the tubular body having. Due to the higher strength, the traction aid is subject to less wear. The traction aid can protrude from the surface of the tubular body so that it digs into the ground and in this respect leads to increased traction. The traction aid can be embedded in the rubber material of the tube body, resulting in a very stable connection with the other components. In this respect, the traction aid can be an integral part of the tubular body and can be permanently connected to the other components.

With regard to the object mentioned at the outset, a chain drive for a vehicle, in particular a military vehicle, is also proposed, the chain drive having a caterpillar track which is designed in the manner described above. In addition, the chain drive can have at least one drive pinion and several running wheels around which the track chain is guided.

It has proven to be advantageous for driving the chain if the drive pinion engages in the spaces between two connecting bushes and thus drives the track chain. A force driving the track chain can thus be exerted on the connecting bolts via the drive pinion.

Furthermore, with regard to the object mentioned above, a tracked vehicle, in particular a military tracked vehicle, is proposed which has a chain drive designed in the manner described above or a track chain designed in the manner described above. In particular, the vehicle may be armored against ballistic resolution. The vehicle can be a land vehicle, such as a transport vehicle, an armored personnel carrier, but also a battle tank or an amphibious vehicle. Further details and advantages of the invention are to be explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings. point there:

1a to 1c show different, partially sectioned views of a tubular body in a first embodiment;

2a to 2b different, partially sectioned views of a chain link in a further embodiment;

3 shows a chain link with two connecting elements;

4 shows a double chain link, consisting of two tubular bodies connected to one another;

5 shows a caterpillar chain consisting of a plurality of chain links connected to one another;

6 shows a view of a chain link of a further embodiment;

7 shows a view of a connecting element and the individual components of the connecting element;

8a to 8b show different views of a roller rolling on a caterpillar track;

9 shows a caterpillar track configured as a connector chain, which is driven via a drive pinion;

10a to 10c show different views of a hinged chain link; 11 shows a hinged chain consisting of several hinged chain links;

12a shows a tubular body with a traction aid;

12b shows a track chain with chain links that have a traction aid.

Crawler tracks 10 are used particularly in vehicles that need to travel reliably on various uneven or unpaved surfaces. Such track chains 10 consist of several chain links 1 arranged one behind the other and connected to form a circulating chain.

The representations of FIGS. 1a to 1c show a tubular body 1.6 of a chain link 1 of such a track chain 10 in perspective views. The internal structure of the tubular body 1.6 can be seen in FIG. 1b. The tubular body 1.6 has two connecting means 2, 3 which are arranged parallel to one another and are each designed as tubular bolt receptacles 2.1, 3.1. These can also be seen in FIG. 1a. Connecting bolts 8 can be inserted through the bolt receptacles 2.1, 3.1, which serve to connect the tubular body 1.6 to a tubular body 1.6 of an adjacent chain link 1 so that it can pivot. Since each tubular body 1.6 has two bolt receptacles 2.1, 3.1, each tubular body 1.6 can also be connected to two other tubular bodies 1.6 of adjacent chain links 1 to form a track chain 10 that is closed all the way around.

The tubular body 1.6 essentially consists of a rubber material which is capable of withstanding large compressive forces but only limited tensile absorb forces. In order to increase the tensile strength, two tension member coils 4 are embedded in the tubular body 1.6, spaced apart from one another around the two connecting means 2, 3 in the manner of a circulating ring. The tension member coils 4 consist of a fiber material which can reliably transmit tensile forces from one connection means 2 to the other connection means 3 . Basically, compressive forces can hardly be transmitted via the connecting coil 4, but this is not necessary either, since they can be transmitted via the rubber compound, especially since the crawler chain 10 is primarily subjected to tensile stress, at least in chain direction K. The chain direction K is the direction in which the individual tubular bodies 1.6 or chain links 1 are connected to one another, as can also be seen in FIG. 3 or in FIG. 5, for example.

In order to fasten the tension member coils 4 on the connecting means 2, 3 or on the bolt receptacles 2.1, 3.1, these have projections 2.2, 3.2 which prevent the tension member coils 4 from being able to move in the axial direction on the bolt receptacles 2.1, 3.1. The corresponding projections 2.2, 3.2 serve as positioning aids in the manner of shoulders and ensure that the tension member coils 4 do not slip even during casting or embedding in the rubber mass.

As can also be seen in FIG. 1b, the tubular body 1.6 of the chain link 1 has a bar-shaped traverse 6 which is arranged parallel to the connecting means 2, 3 in the center of the tubular body 1.6 transversely to the chain direction K. This traverse 6 consists of a light metal or a fiber composite and is used for stabilization and to absorb transverse and torsional forces.

The elements that can be seen in FIG. 1b basically represent the inner workings of the tubular body 1.6 or chain link 1. In FIG. 1c, the Tubular body 1.6 is shown in a sectional view, so that the inner elements embedded in the rubber compound can be seen in the left part of FIG. 1c and the outer structure of the tubular body 1.6 can be seen on the right. During manufacture, the inner members are positioned in a mold as shown in Figure 1b and encased in a raw rubber material. After the vulcanization of the rubber material, the individual polymer chains have crosslinked with one another and the elements are inseparably enclosed in the tubular body 1.6. The final tubular body 1.6 can be seen in FIG. 1a.

As can also be seen from FIG. 1a, the tubular body 1.6 has two different surfaces, namely a profiled running surface

1.1 and a flat rolling surface 1.2 opposite the profiled running surface 1.1. The running surface 1.1 is profiled so that it ensures the best possible traction and the best possible maneuverability, even on uneven and unpaved ground. Because the running surface 1.1 is the outer surface of the track chain 10, which comes into contact with the ground. The opposite rolling surface

1.2, on the other hand, is designed to be smooth, so that the rollers 11.1 can run smoothly on it. This will also be explained in more detail below with reference to the further representations of the track chain 10 .

In the illustration of FIG. 2, a tubular body 1.6 is also shown, which is configured very similarly to the tubular body 1.6 shown in FIGS. 1a to 1c. Basically, the only difference is that the tension member coils 4 are embedded in a preformed tension member element 5 in this embodiment. This preformed tension carrier element 5 consists of two coil formers 5.1, the actual tension carrier coil 4 located inside the tension carrier element 5, which is not shown here, and a vulcanized rubber compound which materially connects the coil former 5.1 to the tension carrier coil 4. In order to attach the tension carrier elements 5 to the connecting means 2, 3 or also the bolt receptacle men 2.1, 3.1 to be able to attach, the bobbins 5.1 have an inner diameter which is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the bolt receiving elements 2.1, 3.1.

As can be imagined, when the inner components of the chain link 1 according to FIG. 1b are embedded in the plastic mass, the individual elements can move relative to one another. Since the tension member coils 4 can basically hardly absorb any compressive forces, the corresponding installation on the connecting means 2, 3 can be somewhat wobbly, unless they are fixed in some other way. The preformed tension carrier elements 5, on the other hand, can give the two connecting means 2, 3 more stability, so that after the tension carrier elements 5 have been pushed onto the connecting means 2, 3, they can no longer easily move relative to one another and are therefore also reliably embedded in the rubber compound can become.

As can also be seen in FIG. 2a, the tension carrier elements 5 have a positioning opening 5.2, which is adapted to the contour or to the geometry of the traverse 6. The two tension carrier elements 5 can be plugged onto the two connecting means 2, 3 and onto the traverse 6 and thus form a comparatively stable unit which can then be embedded in the rubber compound in a next step.

In Fig. 2b, the corresponding tubular body 1.6 is shown analogously to the illustration in Fig. 1c, with the finished fully vulcanized tubular body 1.6 being visible on the right and the inner components and in particular the two preformed tension carrier elements 5 on the left in Fig. 2b A comparison of FIGS. 2b and 1c shows that the tension carrier elements 5 are thicker than the tension carrier coils 4, since these are already embedded in a rubber mass. It can also be seen that the bolt receptacles 2.1, 3.1 1b can move towards each other, which is not possible due to the coil body 5.1 in the preformed tension carrier elements 5.

3 shows a chain link 1 with a tubular body 1.6 as shown in FIGS. 1a to 1c or with a tubular body 1.6 as shown in FIGS. 2a to 2b. The chain link 1 has a guide tooth 1.3 which protrudes perpendicularly relative to the rolling surface 1.2 and which leads to a certain lateral guidance of the track chain 10. The guide tooth prevents the caterpillar track 10 from being able to jump off the vehicle. This is also explained in more detail below with reference to FIGS. 8a and 8b.

Furthermore, it can also be seen in FIG. 3 that the bolt receptacles 2.1, 3.1 have each been fitted with a connecting bolt 8 which protrudes on both sides in relation to the tubular body 1.6. In each case connecting elements 7 can be attached to these protruding sections of the connecting bolt 8, which are then connected on one side to the connecting bolt 8 extending through a tubular body 1.6 and on the other side to a connecting bolt 8 which extends through an adjacent tubular body 1.6 of another Chain link 1 extends through, can be connected. In this respect, two tubular bodies 1.6 can be pivotally connected to one another by the connecting elements 7 . The tubular body 1.6 then forms the chain link 1 together with the connecting elements 7 and the connecting bolts 8 .

As can also be seen in FIG. 3, the connecting elements 7 shown have a recess which extends perpendicularly to the rolling surface and has a screw thread. The connecting elements 7 can be pressed onto the end regions of the connecting bolts 8 by means of screw-in connecting screws 7.6 via this, so that a frictional connection between the connecting bolts 8 and the connecting binding elements 7 arises. Furthermore, to secure the connecting elements 7 , additional elements such as locking pins can also be provided, which can additionally prevent an axial movement of the connecting elements 7 on the connecting bolt 8 .

4 shows a double chain link 1.5, consisting of two tubular bodies 1.6 arranged next to one another, which are connected to one another via two connecting bolts 8. As can be seen, the connecting bolts 8 not only extend through a tubular body

1.6, but by the two tubular bodies arranged side by side

1.6. The connecting bolts 8 can be rubberized in the area in which they are arranged within the bolt receptacles 2.1, 3.1. On the one hand, this means that there is no abrasive metal-on-metal friction, and on the other hand it can also prevent or make it more difficult for the tubular bodies 1.6 and the connecting bolts 8 to move in the axial direction relative to one another.

The tubular bodies 1.6 are the tubular bodies 1.61 which have already been described above with regard to FIGS. 1a to 1c and FIGS. 2a to 2b. Due to the double chain links 1.5, the corresponding track chain 10 can be significantly wider overall, so that the edge contact forces are also distributed over a larger area. The double chain links 1.5 are lined up and connected to one another in the same way as has already been described with regard to the individual chain links 1 and will be described below.

5 shows a track chain 10 consisting of several double chain links 1.5 which are arranged one behind the other and are pivotably connected to one another. The profiles of the chain links 1, which lead to high traction, are clearly visible. The connection The formation of the double chain links 1.5 corresponds to that which has already been explained with regard to the individual chain link 1 with reference to FIG.

In contrast to the individual chain links 1, in which the guide teeth 1.3 are each arranged in the middle of the chain links 1, the double chain links 1.5 have the guide teeth 1.3 arranged between the two individual tubular bodies 1.6. For this purpose, the guide teeth 1.3 are designed as independent elements and are not firmly connected to the chain links 1, but are also arranged on the connecting bolts 8, just like the tubular bodies 1.6.

In the illustration of FIG. 6, a tubular body 1.6 is shown in a further embodiment, which has many things in common with the tubular bodies 1.6 described above. However, what is striking when comparing FIG. 1a with FIG. 6 is that the tubular body 1 shown in FIG. 6 is significantly wider. Furthermore, the guide tooth 1.3 is connected to the traverse 6, which is designed in the form of a bolt in this tubular body 1.6. The background to this is that higher forces can be absorbed by the guide number 1.3 and it cannot be sheared off so easily from the actual tubular body 1.6, since this is anchored via the traverse 6 inside the tubular body 1.6.

Basically, the individual production steps for the production of the tubular body 1.6 can be seen in FIG. The two tension member coils 4 are shown on the right, which are placed around the connecting means 2, 3 designed as bolt receptacles 2.1, 3.1. This can be seen in the middle of FIG. In addition, the tension carrier coils 4 are also closed on the sides by cover panels and another element is shown in the middle between the two tension carrier coils 4, which also acts as a kind of support for the guide tooth 1.3. Analogous to the tubular bodies 1.6 already described, it is also the case with this tubular body 1.6 so that the Elements are placed together in a rubber mass, which is then vulcanized in a next step, so that the elements are inextricably linked and embedded in the rubber mass. On the left in FIG. 6, the guide tooth 1.3 is shown separately from the right-hand tubular body 1.6, but this is also arranged accordingly together with the traverse 6 prior to vulcanization, so that it is firmly anchored in the finished tubular body 1.6 .

The representation of FIG. 7 shows a connecting element 7, as is used in the track chain 10, which is shown in the following FIGS. 8a, 8b. Completely analogous to the tubular body 1.6, the connecting element 7 consists of two connection means 12, 13, which in the representation according to FIG. 7 are each configured as tubular connecting bolt receptacles 7.3, 7.4. A connecting coil 7.5 is guided around these connecting bolt receptacles 7.3, 7.4 in the manner of a revolving strand, which basically functions in exactly the same way as has already been described above with regard to the tension carrier coil 4 of the tubular body 1.6.

After the connecting coil 7.5 has been placed around the two connecting bolt receptacles 7.3, 7.4, it is embedded together with the other elements in a rubber or plastic mass, so that the connecting element 7 then arises from it. The main difference between the connecting element 7 and the tubular body 1.6 is that the connecting element 7 is narrower, has only one connecting winding 7.5 and the connection means 12, 13 are closer together.

An important advantage of this connection means 7 compared to the connection means 7 shown in FIG. medium can have the same height as the tubular body 1.6. This can also be seen in particular in FIGS. 8a, 8b.

FIG. 8a shows a caterpillar track in a front view and in a side view. As can be seen, the connecting elements 7 arranged next to the tubular bodies 1.6 have the same height as the tubular bodies 1.6, whereby the effective rolling surface 1.2 and the effective running surface 1.1 of the individual chain links 1 are increased.

The connecting elements 7 can have a running surface 7.1 and a rolling surface 7.2 opposite the running surface, just like the tubular bodies 1.6. The running surface 7.1 can also be profiled, although this cannot be seen in FIGS. 8a and 8b.

Basically, the connecting elements 7 are connected to the chain links 7 in a very similar way, as has already been described with regard to FIG. 3 . The connecting bolts 8 are pushed through the bolt receptacles 2.1, 3.1 of the tubular bodies 1.6 and protrude laterally beyond the tubular bodies 1.6. The connecting elements 7 with their connecting bolt receptacles 7.3, 7.4 are then pushed onto these laterally protruding sections of the connecting bolts 8, so that each connecting element 7 is connected via two connecting bolts 8 to two adjacent tubular bodies 1.6.

In order to secure the connecting elements 7 in the axial direction on the connecting bolt 8, connecting bushes 8.1 are provided, which can be seen, for example, in FIG. 8b. These connecting bushes 8.1 are positively connected to the connecting bolts 8 via a connecting pin that can be inserted through the connecting bushing 8.1 and the connecting bolt 8, so that they secure the connecting elements 7 on the connecting bolt 8 in the axial direction. through the connecting bolt zen 8 can thus be realized a pivotable connection between the tubular bodies 1.6 and the connecting elements 7 and thus also between the individual chain links 1.

As can also be seen from FIGS. 8a and 8b, the roller 11.1 is designed as a double roller and basically consists of two individual partial rollers which are at a certain distance from one another. The guide tooth 1.3 can engage in the space between the individual partial rollers, so that good lateral guidance of the crawler chain 10 is ensured and the roller 11.1 cannot jump off the crawler chain 10 even when cornering faster. This can be seen, for example, in FIG. 8b and in the right-hand representation of FIG. 8a. Furthermore, it can be seen that the outer partial roller is wider than the inner partial roller. This goes hand in hand with the fact that the connecting elements 7 provide an additional rolling surface 7.2 for the rollers 11.1 and thus the roller 11.1 can be wider overall than is the case, for example, with the connecting elements 7 shown in FIG.

In the representation of FIG. 9, the drive of the track chain 10 is shown. For this purpose, the track chain 10 is guided around a drive pinion 11, which engages in the spaces between the connecting bushes 8.1. When the drive pinion rotates, a force is exerted on the crawler chain 10, which drives it. Since the individual tubular bodies 1.6 are not connected directly to one another, but rather via connecting elements 7 that are pivotably connected to the tubular bodies 1.6, this type of chain is also referred to as a connector chain 10.1.

A further embodiment is shown in FIGS. 10a to 10c. In this case, the tubular bodies 1.6 are not detachably connected to all connecting elements 7 via connecting bolts 8, but each tubular body 1.6 is connected in one piece to two connecting elements 7 each. The Corresponding chain links 1 are then also referred to as hinged chain links 1 .4.

The structure of such a hinged chain link 1.4 can be seen in FIG. 10a. The tubular body 1 .6 arranged in the middle and the connecting elements 7 arranged on the sides of the chain link 1 are basically configured in the same way as has already been described above. The main difference, however, is that the tubular body 1.6 has a bolt receptacle 2.1 on only one side and on the other side of the tubular body 1.6 has a connecting traverse 2.3. The same applies to the connecting elements 7. These each have a connecting bolt receptacle 7.4 only at one end and the connecting crossbar 2.3 on the other opposite side. The connecting traverse 2.3 is thus partially part of the tubular body 1.6 and partially part of the connecting element or elements 7. The connecting traverse 2.3 thus connects the tubular body 1.6 to the two connecting elements 7 to form the chain link 1, so that the connecting elements 7 do not move relative to the Can move tubular body 1.6.

As has already been described above, the tubular body 1.6 has two tension member coils 4, which are then guided around the bolt receptacle 2.1 on one side and around the connecting traverse 2.3 on the other side in the manner of a revolving strand. The connecting coils 7.5 are arranged in the outer end regions of the connecting crossbar 2.3 and these are guided around the connecting crossbar 2.3 on one side and around the connecting bolt receptacle 7.4 of the connecting elements 7 on the other side. In the event of a tensile load, the corresponding tensile force is first transferred from the bolt receptacle 2.1 via the tension carrier coil 4 to the connecting cross member 2.3. About the connecting traverse 2.3 this is then in turn transfer the connecting winding 7.5 to the connecting bolt receptacle 7.4 and from there to the next chain link 1 or to the next tubular body 1.6.

During production of the hinged chain link 1.4, the individual elements are first arranged together again in a vulcanization mold in a rubber mass, as has already been explained above with regard to the individual tubular bodies 1.6 and also the connecting elements 7. In contrast to the production described above, the tubular bodies 1.7 and the connecting elements 7 are now manufactured in one step in order to connect them to one another in one piece, as can be seen from the fully vulcanized hinged chain link 1.4 on the left in FIG. 10a. The guide tooth 1.3 is not shown here, but as already explained with reference to FIG. 6, it can also be embedded in the rubber mass together with the other elements. Since the connecting traverse 2.3 gives the hinged chain link 1.4 a high level of stability, the corresponding tubular body 1.6 and also the connecting element 7 no longer have any additional traverse 6. The guide tooth 1.3 is then correspondingly connected to the connecting traverse 2.3.

10b shows the connection of the hinged chain links 1.4 to form a rotating hinged chain 10.2. The connection of the hinged chain links 1.4 basically works in a very similar way to that already described above with regard to FIGS. However, in the case of the hinged chain 10.2, only half the number of connecting bolts 8 is required in comparison to the connector chain 10.1 of FIG. Because basically every second connecting bolt 8 is replaced by an embedded connecting traverse 2.3. In order to connect two hinged chain links 1.4 to one another, the connecting bolt 8 is inserted through the two connecting bolt receptacles 7.4, which are arranged concentrically to one another, of the connecting elements 7 which are integrally connected to the tubular body 1.6. The tubular body 1.6 of the subsequent hinged chain link 1.4 is arranged between the two connecting elements 7 in such a way that the bolt receptacle 2.1 of the subsequent tubular body 1.6 is aligned with the connecting bolt receptacles 7.4 of the connecting elements 7 of the preceding tubular body 1.6. The connecting bolt 8 can be inserted through the two connecting elements 7 and through the chain link 1 of the adjacent hinged chain link 1.4 and connect the two hinged chain links 1.4 with one another in a pivoting manner. The connecting bolt 8 is provided at each end with a connecting bush 8.1, which prevents an axial movement of the bolt in relation to the hinged chain link 1.4, as has already been described above.

A hinged chain link 1.4 with an inserted connecting bolt 8 can be seen in FIG. 10c. The central area of the connecting pin 8, which is arranged between the two connecting elements 7, is arranged in a fully assembled hinged chain 10.2 in the tubular body 1.6 of the adjacent hinged chain link 1.4, as can also be seen in FIG. 10b.

FIG. 11 now shows a fully assembled hinged chain 10.2. This chain can also be driven via the connecting bushes 8.1, for which purpose the drive pinion 11 shown in FIG. 9 can be used, especially since this also acts on every second connecting bush 8.1 in FIG. 9 anyway. Since the hinged chain 10.2 according to FIG. 11 only has half as many connecting pins 8 and therefore only half as many connecting bushes 8.1, the drive pinion 11 would then correspond to each hinged chain 10.2 Connecting socket 8.1 exert a force driving the hinged chain 10.2.

In the representation of FIG. 12a, a tubular body 1.6 of a chain link 1 is shown from below, so that the running surface 1.1 that comes into contact with the ground can be seen. The tubular body 1 .6 has on this side a traction aid 1.7, which protrudes over the running surface 1.1 and thus intervene in particular when driving on soft or snowy ground in the ground and thereby causes an improvement in traction. In order to ensure reliable stability of the chain link 1 or the traction aid 1.7, it consists of metal and is vulcanized into the rubber material of the tubular body 1.6.

In terms of construction, the traction aid 1.7 consists of two V-shaped metal parts arranged at a distance from one another, the tips of which face each other, as can also be seen, for example, in the illustration in FIG. 12a. This geometric shape has proven itself in practice and ensures a significant improvement in traction. Nevertheless, the traction aid 1.7 could also be designed differently from a geometric point of view, for example in the manner of one or more lamellae extending parallel to the bolt receptacles 2.1, 3.1.

12b shows a caterpillar chain 10 whose chain links 1 or whose tubular bodies 1.6 are equipped with appropriate traction aids 1.7. As can be seen from a comparison with FIG. 5, however, only the chain links 1 of every second row are equipped with appropriate traction aids 1.7. The tubular bodies 1.6 of the hinged chain 1.4 can also be equipped with appropriate traction aids 1.7. References:

1 chain link

1 .1 Tread

1.2 Rolling surface

1.3 guide tooth

1.4 hinged chain link

1.5 double chain link

1.6 tubular body

1.7 Traction Aid

2 lanyards

2.1 Bolt mount

2.2 Protrusions

2.3 Connection traverse

3 lanyards

3.1 Bolt mount

3.2 Protrusions

4 tension member wraps

5 tension member

5.1 Bobbin

5.2 Positioning hole

6 traverse

7 fastener

7.1 Tread

7.2 Rolling surface

7.3 Connecting bolt mount

7.4 Connecting bolt mount

7.5 Connection Wrap

7.6 Connection screw

8 connecting bolts 8.1 Connection socket

10 Track

10.1 Connector chain

10.2 Hinge chain 11 drive pinion

11.1 Castor

12 connection means

13 Connection means K chain direction

Claims

38 patent claims:

1 . Track chain for tracked vehicles, in particular for military tracked vehicles, with a plurality of chain links (1) arranged one behind the other in the direction of the chain (K) and connected to one another in a pivoting manner, each of which has two connecting means (2, 3), with at least one connecting means (2, 3) being transverse to the chain direction (K) extending tubular bolt receptacle (2.1) is designed to accommodate a connecting bolt (8), characterized by at least one tension carrier coil (4) for the transmission of tensile forces from one connecting means (2) to the other connecting means (3).

2. Crawler track according to claim 1, characterized in that the tension member winding (4) is embedded in a plastic mass together with the two connecting means (2,3) to form a tubular body (1.6).

3. Crawler track according to claim 2, characterized in that the elasticity and the extensibility of the tubular body (1.6) can be adjusted by the tension member winding (4).

4. Crawler track according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the tension member winding (4) for transmitting the tensile forces between the connecting means (2, 3) is guided around the two connecting means (2, 3) in the manner of a circulating strand. 39

5. Track chain according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that both connecting sections (2, 3) are designed as tubular bolt receptacles (2.1, 3.1).

6. Track chain according to claim, characterized in that the bolt receptacles (2.1, 3.1), in particular ring-shaped, have projections (2.2, 3.2) for positioning the tension member winding (4).

7. Crawler track according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a preformed tension carrier element (5) which has the tension carrier coil (4).

8. Crawler track according to one of the preceding claims 2 to 7, characterized in that at least two tubular bodies (1.6) are connected to one another to form a connector chain (10.1) via connecting elements (7), in particular pivotably.

9. Crawler track according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by two tubular bodies (1.6) arranged next to one another transversely to the direction of the chain, which are connected to one another via at least one connecting pin (8) to form a double chain link (1.5).

10. Crawler track according to one of claims 8 or 9, characterized in that the height of the connecting element (7) corresponds to the height of the tubular body (1.6).

11 . Track chain according to one of Claims 8 to 10, characterized in that the connecting element (7) has a rolling surface (7.2) which widens the rolling surface (1.2) of the chain link (1). 40 Crawler track according to one of Claims 8 to 11, characterized in that the connecting element (7) has two connecting means (12, 13) each for connection to a tubular body (1.6), with at least one connecting means (12, 13) as a tubular connecting bolt receptacle ( 7.3, 7.4) is designed to accommodate a connecting bolt (8). Crawler track according to one of Claims 8 to 12, characterized in that the connecting element (7) has a connecting coil (7.5) for transmitting tensile forces from one connection means (12) to the other connection means (13). Crawler track according to Claim 13, characterized in that the connecting coil (7.5) is guided around the two connection means (12, 13) in the manner of a revolving strand in order to transmit tensile forces between the connection means (12, 13). Crawler track according to one of Claims 8 to 14, characterized in that each tubular body (1.6) is connected in one piece to at least one, in particular to two, connecting bolts (8) to form a hinged chain link (1.4). Crawler track according to Claim 15, characterized by a connecting traverse (2.3) which is partially part of the tubular body (1.6) as connecting means (2) and partially part of the connecting element (7) as connecting means (12, 13). Crawler track according to Claim 16, characterized in that the connecting coil (7.5) of the connecting element (7) around the connecting bolt receptacle (7.3, 7.4.) and around the connecting crossbar (2.3) and the tension member coil (4) of the tubular body (1.6) around the bolt zen recording (2.1, 3.1) and is guided around the connecting traverse (2.3). Crawler track according to one of Claims 2 to 17, characterized in that the tubular body (1.6) has a traction aid (1.7) to increase traction. Chain drive for a tracked vehicle, in particular a military tracked vehicle, with a track chain (10) according to one of the preceding claims, which is guided around at least one drive pinion (11) and a plurality of running wheels (11.1). Tracked vehicle, in particular military tracked vehicle, with a track drive according to Claim 19 or a caterpillar track according to one of Claims 1 to 18.