GB594049A - Improvements in self-laying tracks for vehicle wheels - Google Patents

Abstract

594,049. Endless tracks for vehicles. DEW, C. J., and LIEBRECHT, H. F. June 25, 1945, No. 16124. [Class 79 (i)] A self-laying vehicle endless track comprising alternating long track sections and short connecting links pivoted together, has alternate short links mechanically interconnected, e.g., by a chain or cable or by articulated rods, so as to constrain the shape of the whole track and keep diametrically opposite track sections in contact with the driving wheel or wheels. Preferably the short links have one fifth to one third the length of a track section, and the combined length of a short link and a long track section is equal to the effective diameter of the driving sprocket. Provision may be made to equalize the relative angular movements of any two track sections which are connected by a short link. The track shown comprises short links 2A or 2B alternating with long track sections 1 each of which comprises a pair of longitudinal hollow members 1 to which are secured short channel section cross pieces 4 which engage the teeth of the driving wheel 7. Alternate short links are interconnected by two flexible cables or roller chains 9, each of which passes over chain sprockets 10 on two of the, short links 2A and over a toothed segment 11 fixed to one short link 2B, whereby the track sections are constrained to maintain the top and bottom sections parallel; alternatively, the alternate short links may be interconnected by three equal rods articulated to the links and to a common floating hub as described in Specifications 539,106 and 553,905. To ensure that the short links are always symmetrically disposed with respect to its adjoining track sections, adjacent ends of the latter are interconnected, e.g., by toothed gearing, or as shown, by the provision of common additional links 16 which cross the short links 2A or 2B.