Sprocket assembly for a track type vehicle

Abstract

A sprocket assembly is disclosed for use as a drive or idler wheel for the endless tracks of a track type vehicle. Included is an inner rim rigidly and concentrically mounted to a hub and having a series of studs projecting radially outwardly therefrom at constant circumferential spacings. Each stud has fitted thereon a universal shock absorber having two or more concentric tubes of rigid material with a preloaded elastic member or members engaged therebetween. Disposed concentrically outwardly of the studded inner rim is an outer rim having a series of sprocket teeth formed on its circumference and defining an annular row of radial, inwardly open cavities to closely receive the respective shock absorbers on the studs of the inner rim. The shock absorbers damp the forces exerted between the inner and outer rims in all of the axial, radial, and rotational directions of the sprocket assembly. Preferably, a pair of annular end covers are rigidly mounted to the inner rim and are held against the opposite axial ends of the outer rim via elastic sealing members which are also effective to elastically bear the forces exerted between the inner and outer rims in the axial, radial, and rotational directions of the sprocket assembly.