US20120267947A1 - Twin Bushing Track Chain Cartridge - Google Patents
Twin Bushing Track Chain Cartridge Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20120267947A1 US20120267947A1 US13/092,346 US201113092346A US2012267947A1 US 20120267947 A1 US20120267947 A1 US 20120267947A1 US 201113092346 A US201113092346 A US 201113092346A US 2012267947 A1 US2012267947 A1 US 2012267947A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- collar
- pin
- bushing
- insert
- inner bushing
- 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.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
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- 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
- B62D55/205—Connections between track links
- B62D55/21—Links connected by transverse pivot pins
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- 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
- B62D55/088—Endless track units; Parts thereof with means to exclude or remove foreign matter, e.g. sealing means, self-cleaning track links or sprockets, deflector plates or scrapers
- B62D55/0887—Track-articulation sealings against dust, water, mud or the like
-
- 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
- B62D55/092—Endless track units; Parts thereof with lubrication means
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- 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
- B62D55/205—Connections between track links
- B62D55/21—Links connected by transverse pivot pins
- B62D55/211—Bitubular chain links assembled by pins and double connectors
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- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T29/00—Metal working
- Y10T29/49—Method of mechanical manufacture
- Y10T29/49826—Assembling or joining
- Y10T29/49947—Assembling or joining by applying separate fastener
- Y10T29/49948—Multipart cooperating fastener [e.g., bolt and nut]
- Y10T29/4995—Nonthreaded
Definitions
- An endless track chain for a track type vehicle is disclosed, and, more particularly, a cartridge assembly that acts as a joint for relative rotation between links of the track chain is disclosed.
- Track type work machines typically have a sprocket, an idler, and a track chain assembly.
- the sprocket rotates and engages the track chain assembly, thereby causing the track chain assembly to rotate around a path defined by the sprocket and the idler.
- the rotation of the track chain assembly causes the machine to be propelled over the ground so as to perform various work functions.
- track chain assemblies generally include a pair of parallel chains, with each parallel chain being made up of a series of track links.
- Track chain assemblies further include a series of cartridges that include bushings, pins, collars, seals and inserts. The cartridges are interposed between and connected to the links of the parallel chains.
- the cartridges and the entrained track links cooperate to form a number of track joints which allow the necessary movement of the track links during use of the track chain assembly, for example, when the track chain assembly rotates about the sprocket and the idler.
- a cartridge assembly for a track chain includes a pin that defines a longitudinal access and that has a lubricant channel.
- the pin includes a first and second opposing ends.
- the cartridge assembly includes an inner bushing having first and second ends and a channel extending therethrough for rotatably accommodating a portion of the pin disposed between the first and second opposing ends of the pin.
- the cartridge assembly further includes an outer bushing having first and second ends and a channel extending therethrough for accommodating a portion of the inner bushing disposed between the first and second ends of the inner bushing.
- the cartridge assembly also includes first and second inserts. Each insert has a channel extending therethrough for accommodating opposing portions of the inner bushing that extend beyond the outer bushing.
- the first insert engages the first end of the outer bushing and the second insert engages the second end of the outer bushing.
- the cartridge assembly also includes first and second collars, each having a channel extending therethrough for accommodating portions of the pin that extend beyond the inner bushing. And, the cartridge assembly may include a first thrust ring disposed between the first collar and the first insert and a second thrust ring may be disposed between the second collar and the second insert.
- the first insert and first collar may be joined together or be formed as a single part.
- the second insert and second collar may be joined together or be formed as a single part.
- the thrust rings may be separate parts or be formed as part of the inserts, collars, inner bushing or a combination thereof.
- a track chain in disclosed which includes a plurality of cartridge assemblies.
- Each cartridge assembly includes a pin that defines a longitudinal access and it has a lubricant channel.
- the pin includes first and second opposing ends.
- An inner bushing includes first and second ends and a channel extending therethrough for rotatably accommodating a portion of the pin disposed between the first and second opposing ends of the pin.
- An outer bushing is included that has first and second opposing ends and a channel extending therethrough for accommodating a portion of the inner bushing disposed between the first and second opposing ends of the inner bushing.
- the track chain also includes first and second inserts. Each insert has a channel extending therethrough for accommodating opposing portions of the inner bushing that extend beyond the outer bushing.
- Each cartridge assembly of the track chain also includes first and second collars. Each collar has a channel extending therethrough for accommodating portions of the pin that extend beyond the inner bushing.
- Each cartridge assembly of the track chain also includes a first thrust ring disposed between the first collar and the first insert and, similarly, a second thrust ring disposed between the second collar and the second insert.
- the first and second thrust rings each include inner and outer radial faces. The outer radial faces of the first and second thrust rings support first and second seals respectively. The inner radial face of the first and second thrust rings engage one of the pin or inner bushing.
- the first collar of each cartridge assembly of the track chain is accommodated in a first link.
- the second collar is accommodated in a second link.
- the first insert is accommodated in a third link and the second insert is accommodated in a fourth link.
- a method for providing stiffness to a cartridge assembly of a track chain includes providing a pin defining a longitudinal access and having a lubricant channel.
- the pin includes first and second opposing ends.
- the method also includes inserting the pin into an inner bushing having first and second ends and a channel extending therethrough for rotatably accommodating a portion of the pin with the first and second opposing ends of the pin extending beyond the first and second opposing ends of the inner bushing respectively.
- the method also includes inserting the pin an inner bushing into an outer bushing having first and second opposing ends and the channel extending therethrough for accommodating a portion of the inner bushing with the pin and with the inner bushing extending beyond the first and second ends of the outer bushing.
- the method further includes coupling first and second inserts over opposing portions of the inner bushing that extend beyond the outer bushing and coupling the first insert to the first end of the outer bushing and coupling the second insert to the second end of the outer bushing.
- the method also includes coupling a first thrust ring to the pin and the first end of the inner bushing and coupling a second thrust ring to the pin in a second end of the inner bushing.
- the method also includes coupling the first and second collars to the first and second thrust rings respectively and to portions of the pin that extend beyond the inner bushing.
- FIG. 1 is a side plan view of a track type machine that can incorporate the track chain cartridges disclosed herein.
- FIG. 2 is a partial sectional view of a disclosed cartridge assembly for a track chain.
- FIG. 3 is a sectional view of yet another disclosed cartridge assembly for a track chain.
- FIG. 4 is another partial sectional view of a disclosed cartridge assembly for a track chain.
- FIG. 5 is yet another partial sectional view of a disclosed cartridge assembly for a track chain.
- the prior art track chain assemblies articulate around the sprocket and the idler, and thereby allow the work machine to be propelled over the ground
- the prior art track chain assemblies suffer from several drawbacks.
- the prior art track chain assemblies tend to be mechanically complex and are prone to structural problems.
- the cartridge assemblies (bushings, pins, collars, seals and inserts) are difficult to manufacture and assemble and, further, lack sufficient axial stiffness to ensure a long working life. Therefore, a track chain assembly which overcomes the above-mentioned drawbacks is needed.
- a track type machine 500 includes a machine body 512 , having a drive sprocket 520 mounted to a side thereof.
- a track chain 514 extends about the drive sprocket 520 , as well as a rear idler 518 and a front idler 519 .
- the track chain 514 includes a plurality of links 515 movably coupled to two other links 515 via a sleeve bearing cartridge assembly 10 .
- a plurality of track rollers 517 may be coupled with work machine body 512 and rotate against track chain 514 in a conventional manner.
- the machine 500 may include identical track chains, drive sprockets and idlers on opposite sides thereof, in a conventional manner.
- the machine 500 is illustrated as a relatively large “high drive” tractor, however, it should be appreciated that this disclosure is not thereby limited, and any of a wide variety of track type machines might be designed according to this disclosure.
- FIG. 2 is a partial sectional view of a disclosed cartridge assembly 10 .
- the cartridge assembly 10 includes a pin 11 that includes a lubricant channel 12 extending therethrough for accommodating lubricant and delivering lubricant to various other channels in the cartridge assembly 10 , such as those shown at 13 - 15 in FIGS. 2 and 3 .
- the pin 11 includes an opening 16 which is sealed with a plug assembly 17 .
- the pin 11 is accommodated within an inner bushing 18 .
- the inner bushing 18 and pin 11 are then accommodated within an outer bushing 19 .
- An insert 22 accommodates the pin 11 and inner bushing 18 and also engages an end 23 of the outer bushing 19 .
- the insert 22 includes a recess 24 that accommodates a seal 25 .
- the insert 22 is disposed between the outer bushing 19 and a collar 26 .
- the collar 26 accommodates the end 27 of the pin 11 and also includes a recess 28 for accommodating a seal 29 .
- the pin 11 includes first and second opposing ends 31 , 27 respectively. Each end 31 , 27 of the pin 11 includes an opening 32 , 16 respectively that is sealed with a plug assembly 33 , 17 .
- the lubricant channel 12 serves as a reservoir for lubricant and also delivers lubricant through the channel 15 to the inner bushing 18 and through the channels 13 , 14 to the outer bushing 19 .
- the inner bushing 18 includes first and second opposing ends 36 , 37 and the outer bushing 19 includes first and second opposing ends 38 , 39 respectively.
- the first and second inserts 41 , 22 respectively engage the first and second opposing ends 38 , 39 of the outer bushing 19 respectively and are also disposed on top of the inner bushing 18 near the first and second opposing ends 36 , 37 respectively.
- the first and second inserts 41 , 22 are also axially sandwiched between the outer bushing 19 and the first and second collars 40 , 26 respectively or, more specifically, the first and second inserts 41 , 22 are sandwiched between the outer bushing 19 and the first and second thrust rings 43 , 44 and the first and second seals 45 , 29 respectively.
- the first and second thrust rings 43 , 44 support the seals 45 , 29 and avoid the necessity of designing the inserts 41 , 22 to accommodate or support the outer seals 45 , 29 .
- the first and second inner seals 46 , 25 are disposed in recesses 48 , 24 in the inserts 41 , 22 and engage the first and second opposing ends 38 , 39 of the outer bushing 19 as shown in FIG. 3 .
- the first and second outer seals 45 , 29 are accommodated in recesses 52 , 28 .
- FIGS. 2-5 illustrate four variations, all of which preserve the integrity of the first and second inserts 41 , 22 and provide improved inner box stiffness, reduced shoe bolt loosening, reduced link cracking and increased axial stiffness.
- the cartridge assembly 10 includes a single thrust ring 144 that engages the second opposing end 37 of the inner bushing 18 .
- the single thrust ring 144 supports the seal 29 as shown.
- the insert 22 is not utilized for supporting the seal 29 in a radial direction, nor is there any need for an extension of the insert 22 for supporting the seal 29 .
- the cartridge assembly 100 also includes single thrust rings 43 , 44 , but which are thicker than the thrust ring 144 shown in FIG. 1 .
- the cartridge assembly 200 of FIG. 4 may feature inner and outer thrust rings 244 , 344 respectively, or one thick thrust ring 244 / 344 .
- the insert 22 is not used or needed to support the seal 29 .
- FIG. 5 instead of the thrust ring 444 engaging the pin 11 the thrust ring 444 rides on top of the inner bushing 18 .
- the end 137 of the inner bushing 18 has been extended so it passes through the thrust ring 444 .
- the insert 22 and collar 24 may be joined together or be formed as a single, unitary part.
- the insert 41 and collar 40 may be joined together or be formed as a single part.
- the thrust rings 43 , 44 , 144 , 244 / 344 , 444 may be separate parts or be formed as part of the inserts 41 , 22 , collars 40 , 26 , inner bushing 18 or a combination thereof.
- the four cartridge assemblies 10 , 100 , 200 , 300 are illustrated that provide improved inner box stiffness, reduced link walking, reduced shoe bolt loosening, reduced link cracking and improved axial stiffness. And improved these advantages, without being bound to any particular theory, may be the result of the use of thrust rings 43 , 44 , 144 for supporting the outer seals 45 , 29 as opposed to using a portion of the inserts 41 , 26 for the same function.
- a method for providing stiffness to a cartridge assembly 10 of a track chain 514 includes providing a pin 11 that has a lubricant channel 12 and first and second opposing ends 31 , 27 .
- the pin 11 is inserted into an inner bushing 18 that also has first and second opposing ends 36 , 37 .
- the inner bushing 18 also has a channel 15 extending therethrough for rotatably accommodating a portion of the pin 11 with the first and second opposing ends 31 , 27 of the pin 11 extending beyond the first and second opposing ends 36 , 37 of the inner bushing 18 .
- the pin 11 and the inner bushing 18 are then inserted into an outer bushing 19 which also has first and second opposing ends 38 , 39 .
- the first and second inserts 41 , 22 are coupled over opposing portions of the inner bushing 18 that extend beyond the outer bushing 19 and the first insert 41 is coupled to the first end 38 of the outer bushing 19 and the second insert 22 is coupled to the second end 39 of the outer bushing 19 .
- a first thrust ring 43 is coupled to the pin 11 and the first end 36 of the inner bushing 18 .
- a second thrust ring 44 is coupled to the pin 11 and the second end 37 of the inner bushing 18 .
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Transportation (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Devices For Conveying Motion By Means Of Endless Flexible Members (AREA)
Abstract
A cartridge assembly for a track chain is disclosed. The cartridge assembly includes a pin that has a lubricant channel therein. The pin is accommodated in an inner bushing that also has a channel extending therethrough for accommodating the pin. The pin extends beyond either end of the inner bushing. The pin and inner bushing are partially disposed in an outer bushing that also has a channel for accommodating the pin in inner bushing. The ends of the inner bushing and pin extend beyond the ends of the outer bushing. First and second inserts are disposed at either end of the inner bushing. The first and second inserts are disposed between the outer bushing and a pair of opposing collars which are disposed on the ends of the pin beyond the inserts and beyond the ends of the inner bushing. The inserts and collars each include seals. The seals of the collars are supported by one or more thrust rings as opposed to the inserts or partially by the inserts.
Description
- An endless track chain for a track type vehicle is disclosed, and, more particularly, a cartridge assembly that acts as a joint for relative rotation between links of the track chain is disclosed.
- Track type work machines typically have a sprocket, an idler, and a track chain assembly. During use of the work machine, the sprocket rotates and engages the track chain assembly, thereby causing the track chain assembly to rotate around a path defined by the sprocket and the idler. The rotation of the track chain assembly causes the machine to be propelled over the ground so as to perform various work functions.
- As shown in U.S. Pat. No. 7,850,256, track chain assemblies generally include a pair of parallel chains, with each parallel chain being made up of a series of track links. Track chain assemblies further include a series of cartridges that include bushings, pins, collars, seals and inserts. The cartridges are interposed between and connected to the links of the parallel chains. The cartridges and the entrained track links cooperate to form a number of track joints which allow the necessary movement of the track links during use of the track chain assembly, for example, when the track chain assembly rotates about the sprocket and the idler.
- In one example, a cartridge assembly for a track chain is disclosed. The cartridge assembly includes a pin that defines a longitudinal access and that has a lubricant channel. The pin includes a first and second opposing ends. The cartridge assembly includes an inner bushing having first and second ends and a channel extending therethrough for rotatably accommodating a portion of the pin disposed between the first and second opposing ends of the pin. The cartridge assembly further includes an outer bushing having first and second ends and a channel extending therethrough for accommodating a portion of the inner bushing disposed between the first and second ends of the inner bushing. The cartridge assembly also includes first and second inserts. Each insert has a channel extending therethrough for accommodating opposing portions of the inner bushing that extend beyond the outer bushing. The first insert engages the first end of the outer bushing and the second insert engages the second end of the outer bushing. The cartridge assembly also includes first and second collars, each having a channel extending therethrough for accommodating portions of the pin that extend beyond the inner bushing. And, the cartridge assembly may include a first thrust ring disposed between the first collar and the first insert and a second thrust ring may be disposed between the second collar and the second insert.
- The first insert and first collar may be joined together or be formed as a single part. Similarly, the second insert and second collar may be joined together or be formed as a single part. Also, the thrust rings may be separate parts or be formed as part of the inserts, collars, inner bushing or a combination thereof.
- In another example, a track chain in disclosed which includes a plurality of cartridge assemblies. Each cartridge assembly includes a pin that defines a longitudinal access and it has a lubricant channel. The pin includes first and second opposing ends. An inner bushing includes first and second ends and a channel extending therethrough for rotatably accommodating a portion of the pin disposed between the first and second opposing ends of the pin. An outer bushing is included that has first and second opposing ends and a channel extending therethrough for accommodating a portion of the inner bushing disposed between the first and second opposing ends of the inner bushing. The track chain also includes first and second inserts. Each insert has a channel extending therethrough for accommodating opposing portions of the inner bushing that extend beyond the outer bushing. The first insert engages the first end of the outer bushing while the second insert engages the second end of the outer bushing. Each cartridge assembly of the track chain also includes first and second collars. Each collar has a channel extending therethrough for accommodating portions of the pin that extend beyond the inner bushing. Each cartridge assembly of the track chain also includes a first thrust ring disposed between the first collar and the first insert and, similarly, a second thrust ring disposed between the second collar and the second insert. The first and second thrust rings each include inner and outer radial faces. The outer radial faces of the first and second thrust rings support first and second seals respectively. The inner radial face of the first and second thrust rings engage one of the pin or inner bushing. The first collar of each cartridge assembly of the track chain is accommodated in a first link. The second collar is accommodated in a second link. The first insert is accommodated in a third link and the second insert is accommodated in a fourth link.
- In yet another example, a method for providing stiffness to a cartridge assembly of a track chain is disclosed. The method includes providing a pin defining a longitudinal access and having a lubricant channel. The pin includes first and second opposing ends. The method also includes inserting the pin into an inner bushing having first and second ends and a channel extending therethrough for rotatably accommodating a portion of the pin with the first and second opposing ends of the pin extending beyond the first and second opposing ends of the inner bushing respectively. The method also includes inserting the pin an inner bushing into an outer bushing having first and second opposing ends and the channel extending therethrough for accommodating a portion of the inner bushing with the pin and with the inner bushing extending beyond the first and second ends of the outer bushing. The method further includes coupling first and second inserts over opposing portions of the inner bushing that extend beyond the outer bushing and coupling the first insert to the first end of the outer bushing and coupling the second insert to the second end of the outer bushing. The method also includes coupling a first thrust ring to the pin and the first end of the inner bushing and coupling a second thrust ring to the pin in a second end of the inner bushing. The method also includes coupling the first and second collars to the first and second thrust rings respectively and to portions of the pin that extend beyond the inner bushing.
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FIG. 1 is a side plan view of a track type machine that can incorporate the track chain cartridges disclosed herein. -
FIG. 2 is a partial sectional view of a disclosed cartridge assembly for a track chain. -
FIG. 3 is a sectional view of yet another disclosed cartridge assembly for a track chain. -
FIG. 4 is another partial sectional view of a disclosed cartridge assembly for a track chain. -
FIG. 5 is yet another partial sectional view of a disclosed cartridge assembly for a track chain. - While the prior art track chain assemblies articulate around the sprocket and the idler, and thereby allow the work machine to be propelled over the ground, the prior art track chain assemblies suffer from several drawbacks. For example, the prior art track chain assemblies tend to be mechanically complex and are prone to structural problems. Specifically, the cartridge assemblies (bushings, pins, collars, seals and inserts) are difficult to manufacture and assemble and, further, lack sufficient axial stiffness to ensure a long working life. Therefore, a track chain assembly which overcomes the above-mentioned drawbacks is needed.
- Referring to
FIG. 1 , atrack type machine 500 includes a machine body 512, having a drive sprocket 520 mounted to a side thereof. Atrack chain 514 extends about the drive sprocket 520, as well as arear idler 518 and afront idler 519. Thetrack chain 514 includes a plurality oflinks 515 movably coupled to twoother links 515 via a sleeve bearingcartridge assembly 10. A plurality oftrack rollers 517 may be coupled with work machine body 512 and rotate againsttrack chain 514 in a conventional manner. Themachine 500 may include identical track chains, drive sprockets and idlers on opposite sides thereof, in a conventional manner. Themachine 500 is illustrated as a relatively large “high drive” tractor, however, it should be appreciated that this disclosure is not thereby limited, and any of a wide variety of track type machines might be designed according to this disclosure. -
FIG. 2 is a partial sectional view of a disclosedcartridge assembly 10. Thecartridge assembly 10 includes a pin 11 that includes alubricant channel 12 extending therethrough for accommodating lubricant and delivering lubricant to various other channels in thecartridge assembly 10, such as those shown at 13-15 inFIGS. 2 and 3 . The pin 11 includes anopening 16 which is sealed with aplug assembly 17. - In the
cartridge assembly 10 shown inFIG. 2 , the pin 11 is accommodated within aninner bushing 18. Theinner bushing 18 and pin 11 are then accommodated within anouter bushing 19. Aninsert 22 accommodates the pin 11 andinner bushing 18 and also engages anend 23 of theouter bushing 19. Theinsert 22 includes arecess 24 that accommodates aseal 25. Theinsert 22 is disposed between theouter bushing 19 and acollar 26. Thecollar 26 accommodates theend 27 of the pin 11 and also includes arecess 28 for accommodating aseal 29. - A more complete illustration of a
cartridge assembly 100 is illustrated inFIG. 3 . The pin 11 includes first and second opposing ends 31, 27 respectively. Eachend opening plug assembly lubricant channel 12 serves as a reservoir for lubricant and also delivers lubricant through the channel 15 to theinner bushing 18 and through thechannels 13, 14 to theouter bushing 19. Theinner bushing 18 includes first and second opposing ends 36, 37 and theouter bushing 19 includes first and second opposing ends 38, 39 respectively. - In the
cartridge assembly 100 shown inFIG. 3 , the first andsecond inserts 41, 22 respectively engage the first and second opposing ends 38, 39 of theouter bushing 19 respectively and are also disposed on top of theinner bushing 18 near the first and second opposing ends 36, 37 respectively. The first andsecond inserts 41, 22 are also axially sandwiched between theouter bushing 19 and the first andsecond collars 40, 26 respectively or, more specifically, the first andsecond inserts 41, 22 are sandwiched between theouter bushing 19 and the first and second thrust rings 43, 44 and the first andsecond seals seals inserts 41, 22 to accommodate or support theouter seals inner seals recesses inserts 41, 22 and engage the first and second opposing ends 38, 39 of theouter bushing 19 as shown inFIG. 3 . Similarly, the first and secondouter seals recesses 52, 28. - One problem associated with prior
art cartridge assemblies 10 for track chains is the use of theinserts 41, 22 to accommodate and/or support theouter seals inner bushing 18 which can compromise the structural integrity of theinner bushing 18. Compromising the structural integrity of theinserts 41, 22 can also compromise the inner box stiffness, which can lead to link walking, shoe bolt loosening and link cracking. A lack of strength in theinserts 41, 22 also compromises the axial stiffness of acartridge assembly 10. Therefore,FIGS. 2-5 illustrate four variations, all of which preserve the integrity of the first andsecond inserts 41, 22 and provide improved inner box stiffness, reduced shoe bolt loosening, reduced link cracking and increased axial stiffness. - Returning to
FIG. 2 , thecartridge assembly 10 includes asingle thrust ring 144 that engages the second opposingend 37 of theinner bushing 18. Thesingle thrust ring 144 supports theseal 29 as shown. Theinsert 22 is not utilized for supporting theseal 29 in a radial direction, nor is there any need for an extension of theinsert 22 for supporting theseal 29. InFIG. 3 , thecartridge assembly 100 also includes single thrust rings 43, 44, but which are thicker than thethrust ring 144 shown inFIG. 1 . - Turning to
FIGS. 4-5 , thecartridge assembly 200 ofFIG. 4 may feature inner and outer thrust rings 244, 344 respectively, or onethick thrust ring 244/344. Again, theinsert 22 is not used or needed to support theseal 29. Turning toFIG. 5 , instead of thethrust ring 444 engaging the pin 11 thethrust ring 444 rides on top of theinner bushing 18. In thecartridge assembly 300 shown inFIG. 5 , theend 137 of theinner bushing 18 has been extended so it passes through thethrust ring 444. - The
insert 22 andcollar 24 may be joined together or be formed as a single, unitary part. Similarly, the insert 41 and collar 40 may be joined together or be formed as a single part. Also, the thrust rings 43, 44, 144, 244/344, 444 may be separate parts or be formed as part of theinserts 41, 22,collars 40, 26,inner bushing 18 or a combination thereof. - The four
cartridge assemblies outer seals inserts 41, 26 for the same function. - A method for providing stiffness to a
cartridge assembly 10 of atrack chain 514 is also disclosed. The method includes providing a pin 11 that has alubricant channel 12 and first and second opposing ends 31, 27. The pin 11 is inserted into aninner bushing 18 that also has first and second opposing ends 36, 37. Theinner bushing 18 also has a channel 15 extending therethrough for rotatably accommodating a portion of the pin 11 with the first and second opposing ends 31, 27 of the pin 11 extending beyond the first and second opposing ends 36, 37 of theinner bushing 18. The pin 11 and theinner bushing 18 are then inserted into anouter bushing 19 which also has first and second opposing ends 38, 39. The opposing ends 36, 37 of theinner bushing 18 and the opposing ends 31, 27 of the pin 11 both extend beyond the opposing ends 38, 39 of theouter bushing 19. The first andsecond inserts 41, 22 are coupled over opposing portions of theinner bushing 18 that extend beyond theouter bushing 19 and the first insert 41 is coupled to the first end 38 of theouter bushing 19 and thesecond insert 22 is coupled to thesecond end 39 of theouter bushing 19. Afirst thrust ring 43 is coupled to the pin 11 and the first end 36 of theinner bushing 18. Similarly, a second thrust ring 44 is coupled to the pin 11 and thesecond end 37 of theinner bushing 18.
Claims (20)
1. A cartridge assembly for a track chain, comprising:
a pin defining a longitudinal axis and having a lubricant channel, the pin including first and second opposing ends;
an inner bushing having first and second ends and a channel extending therethrough for rotatably accommodating a portion of the pin disposed between the first and second opposing ends of the pin;
an outer bushing having first and second opposing ends and a channel extending therethrough for accommodating a portion of the inner bushing disposed between the first and second opposing ends of the inner bushing;
first and second inserts, each having a channel extending therethrough for accommodating opposing portions of the inner bushing that extend beyond the outer bushing, the first insert engaging the first end of the outer bushing, the second insert engaging the second end of the outer bushing;
first and second collars, each having a channel extending therethrough for accommodating portions of the pin that extend beyond the inner bushing; and
first and second thrust rings, the first thrust ring disposed between the first collar and the first insert, the second thrust ring disposed between the second collar and the second insert.
2. The cartridge assembly of claim 1 further including a first seal disposed between the first collar and first insert and a second seal disposed between the second collar and second insert.
3. The cartridge assembly of claim 1 wherein the first thrust ring includes a pair of first thrust rings, one disposed inside the other and the second thrust ring includes a pair of second thrust rings, one disposed inside the other.
4. The cartridge assembly of claim 1 wherein the first and second thrust rings are disposed on top of the inner bushing.
5. The cartridge assembly of claim 1 wherein the first and second thrust rings each include opposing ends, one end of the first thrust ring engaging the first end of the inner bushing and one end of the second thrust ring engaging the second end of the inner bushing.
6. The cartridge assembly of claim 5 wherein the other end of the first thrust ring engages the first collar and the other end of the second thrust ring engages the second collar.
7. The cartridge assembly of claim 1 wherein the first and second thrust rings each include opposing ends, one end of the first thrust ring engaging the first insert and the other end of the first thrust ring engaging the first collar, and one end of the second thrust ring engaging the second insert and the other end of the second thrust ring engaging the second collar.
8. The cartridge assembly of claim 1 wherein the first and second opposing ends of the pin each accommodate a plug.
9. The cartridge assembly of claim 1 further including a first seal axially sandwiched between the first collar and the first insert and a second seal axially sandwiched between the second collar and the second insert, the first seal being radially sandwiched between the first collar and the first thrust ring, the second seal being radially sandwiched between the second collar and the second thrust ring.
10. The cartridge assembly of claim 1 further including a first seal axially sandwiched between the first collar and the first insert and a second seal axially sandwiched between the second collar and the second insert, the first seal being radially sandwiched between the first collar and the inner bushing, the second seal being radially sandwiched between the second collar and the inner bushing.
11. The cartridge assembly of claim 1 wherein the first collar has an axially facing inner face with at least one recess for accommodating a first seal and the first thrust ring, and the second collar has an axially facing inner face with at least one recess for accommodating a second seal and the second thrust ring.
12. The cartridge assembly of claim 1 wherein the first collar has an axially facing inner face with at least one recess for accommodating a first seal, the first thrust ring and the first end of the inner bushing, and the second collar has an axially facing inner face with at least one recess for accommodating a second seal, the second thrust ring and the second end of the inner bushing.
13. The cartridge assembly of claim 1 further including first and second seals axially sandwiched between the first and second collars and first and second inserts respectively, the first and second seals each including an inner radial surface that does not engage the first and second inserts respectively.
14. The cartridge assembly of claim 1 further including first and second seals axially sandwiched between the first and second collars and inserts respectively, the first and second seals each including an inner radial surface that engages one of the first and second thrust rings respectively.
15. A track chain comprising:
a plurality of cartridge assemblies, each including
a pin defining a longitudinal axis and having a lubricant channel, the pin including first and second opposing ends;
an inner bushing having first and second opposing ends and a channel extending therethrough for rotatably accommodating a portion of the pin disposed between the first and second opposing ends of the pin;
an outer bushing having first and second opposing ends and a channel extending therethrough for accommodating a portion of the inner bushing disposed between the first and second opposing ends of the inner bushing;
first and second inserts, each having a channel extending therethrough for accommodating opposing portions of the inner bushing that extend beyond the outer bushing, the first insert engaging the first end of the outer bushing, the second insert engaging the second end of the outer bushing;
first and second collars, each having a channel extending therethrough for accommodating portions of the pin that extend beyond the inner bushing; and
first and second thrust rings, the first thrust ring disposed between the first collar and the first insert, the second thrust ring disposed between the second collar and the second insert, wherein the first and second thrust rings each include inner and outer radial faces, the outer radial faces of the first and second thrust rings supporting first and second seals respectively, the inner radial faces of the first and second thrust rings engaging one of the pin or the inner bushing; and
the first collar being accommodated in a first link, the second collar being accommodated in a second link, the first insert being accommodated in a third link and the second insert being accommodated in a fourth link.
16. The track chain of claim 15 further including a first seal axially sandwiched between the first collar and the first insert and a second seal axially sandwiched between the second collar and the second insert, the first seal being radially sandwiched between the first collar and the first thrust ring, the second seal being radially sandwiched between the second collar and the second thrust ring.
17. The track chain of claim 15 further including a first seal axially sandwiched between the first collar and the first insert and a second seal axially sandwiched between the second collar and the second insert, the first seal being radially sandwiched between the first collar and the inner bushing, the second seal being radially sandwiched between the second collar and the inner bushing.
18. The track chain of claim 15 further including first and second seals axially sandwiched between the first and second collars and inserts respectively, the first and second seals each including an inner radial surface that does not engage the first and second inserts respectively.
19. The track chain of claim 1 further including first and second seals axially sandwiched between the first and second collars and inserts respectively, the first and second seals each including an inner radial surface that engages one of the first and second thrust rings respectively.
20. A method for providing stiffness to a cartridge assembly of a track chain, the method comprising:
providing a pin defining a longitudinal axis and having a lubricant channel, the pin including first and second opposing ends;
inserting the pin into an inner bushing having first and second opposing ends and a channel extending therethrough for rotatably accommodating a portion of the pin with the first and second opposing ends of the pin extending beyond the first and second opposing ends of the inner bushing respectively;
inserting the pin and inner bushing into an outer bushing having first and second opposing ends and a channel extending therethrough for accommodating a portion of the inner bushing with the pin and with the inner bushing extending beyond the first and second opposing ends of the outer bushing;
coupling first and second inserts over opposing portions of the inner bushing that extend beyond the outer bushing and coupling the first insert to the first end of the outer bushing and coupling the second insert to the second end of the outer bushing;
coupling a first thrust ring to the pin and the first end of the inner bushing and coupling a second thrust ring to the pin and the second end of the inner bushing;
coupling first and second collars to the first and second thrust rings respectively and to portions of the pin that extend beyond the inner bushing.
Priority Applications (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US13/092,346 US20120267947A1 (en) | 2011-04-22 | 2011-04-22 | Twin Bushing Track Chain Cartridge |
US14/243,176 US9457852B2 (en) | 2011-04-22 | 2014-04-02 | Twin bushing track chain cartridge |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US13/092,346 US20120267947A1 (en) | 2011-04-22 | 2011-04-22 | Twin Bushing Track Chain Cartridge |
Related Child Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US14/243,176 Continuation US9457852B2 (en) | 2011-04-22 | 2014-04-02 | Twin bushing track chain cartridge |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20120267947A1 true US20120267947A1 (en) | 2012-10-25 |
Family
ID=47020723
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US13/092,346 Abandoned US20120267947A1 (en) | 2011-04-22 | 2011-04-22 | Twin Bushing Track Chain Cartridge |
US14/243,176 Active 2031-06-27 US9457852B2 (en) | 2011-04-22 | 2014-04-02 | Twin bushing track chain cartridge |
Family Applications After (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US14/243,176 Active 2031-06-27 US9457852B2 (en) | 2011-04-22 | 2014-04-02 | Twin bushing track chain cartridge |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
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US (2) | US20120267947A1 (en) |
Cited By (11)
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WO2015105613A1 (en) * | 2014-01-10 | 2015-07-16 | Caterpillar Inc. | Thin film coating on undercarriage track pins |
US9353866B2 (en) | 2014-04-17 | 2016-05-31 | Caterpillar Inc. | Seal assembly with complementary surface deformations |
US9434425B2 (en) | 2013-08-29 | 2016-09-06 | Caterpillar Inc. | Track joint assemblies |
JP2016536205A (en) * | 2013-08-29 | 2016-11-24 | キャタピラー インコーポレイテッドCaterpillar Incorporated | Orbital joint assembly |
US9505453B2 (en) | 2013-08-29 | 2016-11-29 | Caterpillar Inc. | Track joint assemblies |
US9604681B2 (en) | 2013-08-29 | 2017-03-28 | Caterpillar Inc. | Track joint assemblies |
CN107061485A (en) * | 2017-02-24 | 2017-08-18 | 上海凯波水下工程有限公司 | A kind of roller bearing of cable turntable bottom on subsea cable ship |
US9784103B2 (en) | 2014-04-24 | 2017-10-10 | Harnischfeger Technologies, Inc. | Mining shovel with bushings at pin locations |
US10040495B2 (en) | 2015-12-08 | 2018-08-07 | Caterpillar Inc. | Laser brazing of annular metal seal member on track link |
US10041528B2 (en) * | 2016-10-07 | 2018-08-07 | Caterpillar Inc. | Pin joint for coupling components |
EP3424808A1 (en) | 2013-08-29 | 2019-01-09 | Caterpillar Inc. | Joint bushings for track joint assemblies |
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US11312433B2 (en) * | 2019-01-23 | 2022-04-26 | Caterpillar Inc. | Sealing system for a track |
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US3218107A (en) * | 1962-04-02 | 1965-11-16 | Caterpillar Tractor Co | Seal and coupling assembly for a hinged joint |
US6739680B2 (en) * | 2002-08-21 | 2004-05-25 | Caterpillar Inc | Cartridge assembly for a track chain |
US7347513B2 (en) * | 2005-06-20 | 2008-03-25 | Caterpillar Inc. | Cartridge assembly for a track chain of a track type machine and machine using same |
US7766433B2 (en) * | 2006-09-22 | 2010-08-03 | Deere & Company | Cartridge for use as joint in endless track chain and associated method |
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Cited By (13)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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US9604681B2 (en) | 2013-08-29 | 2017-03-28 | Caterpillar Inc. | Track joint assemblies |
US9434425B2 (en) | 2013-08-29 | 2016-09-06 | Caterpillar Inc. | Track joint assemblies |
JP2016533962A (en) * | 2013-08-29 | 2016-11-04 | キャタピラー インコーポレイテッドCaterpillar Incorporated | Orbital joint assembly |
JP2016536205A (en) * | 2013-08-29 | 2016-11-24 | キャタピラー インコーポレイテッドCaterpillar Incorporated | Orbital joint assembly |
US9505453B2 (en) | 2013-08-29 | 2016-11-29 | Caterpillar Inc. | Track joint assemblies |
US9623920B2 (en) | 2013-08-29 | 2017-04-18 | Caterpillar Inc. | Track joint assemblies |
EP3424808A1 (en) | 2013-08-29 | 2019-01-09 | Caterpillar Inc. | Joint bushings for track joint assemblies |
WO2015105613A1 (en) * | 2014-01-10 | 2015-07-16 | Caterpillar Inc. | Thin film coating on undercarriage track pins |
US9353866B2 (en) | 2014-04-17 | 2016-05-31 | Caterpillar Inc. | Seal assembly with complementary surface deformations |
US9784103B2 (en) | 2014-04-24 | 2017-10-10 | Harnischfeger Technologies, Inc. | Mining shovel with bushings at pin locations |
US10040495B2 (en) | 2015-12-08 | 2018-08-07 | Caterpillar Inc. | Laser brazing of annular metal seal member on track link |
US10041528B2 (en) * | 2016-10-07 | 2018-08-07 | Caterpillar Inc. | Pin joint for coupling components |
CN107061485A (en) * | 2017-02-24 | 2017-08-18 | 上海凯波水下工程有限公司 | A kind of roller bearing of cable turntable bottom on subsea cable ship |
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US9457852B2 (en) | 2016-10-04 |
US20140210254A1 (en) | 2014-07-31 |
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Legal Events
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AS | Assignment |
Owner name: CATERPILLAR, INC., ILLINOIS Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:JOHANNSEN, ERIC;RECKER, ROGER;SEBRIGHT, JASON;AND OTHERS;SIGNING DATES FROM 20110413 TO 20110419;REEL/FRAME:026168/0931 |
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STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO PAY ISSUE FEE |