The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Jul. 21, 1981
Filed:
Nov. 09, 1979
Thomas C Meisel, Jr, Peoria, IL (US);
Caterpillar Tractor Co., Peoria, IL (US);
Abstract
A continuous track assembly (12) has a frame (16) and first and second elements (18,20) pivotally connected to the frame (16). Each element (18,20) has a rotatable wheel (22,24) about which a track (30) is positioned. Either wheel (22,24) can be rotated when desired by power and driving apparatus (36,44) in an associated vehicle (10) to drive the track (30). Tension in the track (30) is maintained at a preselected level by apparatus (50) which moves the first and second elements (18,20) relative to one another to position the wheels (22,24) against the track (30). The wheels (22,24) are freely pivotally movable to enable the track assembly (12) to readily adapt to its environment and maximize tractive effort. Maintaining desired track tension substantially overcomes problems associated with a track which is too loose or tight which can result in slipping or damage to the track assembly (12).