Endless track for high speed multi-terrain vehicles

Abstract

In a conventional rubber track of the type supported and driven by wheels mounted on a vehicle, the terrain-contacting lugs are modified specially for use on high speed multi-terrain vehicles to increase energy efficiency of track operation. The thickness of each terrain-contacting lug is only tapered outboard of the central portion of the basic carcass/belt that is in direct contact with the rubber-tired supporting wheels so that, when traversing flat and hard terrain (e.g., when on pavement), these tapered portions are substantially out of contact with the terrain, thereby reducing the frictional drag of the lugs. However, as the terrain softens, the contact between these same tapered portions and the terrain increases to provide additional traction when traversing uneven, wet, or snow-covered surfaces. In preferred embodiments, the track is further modified by at least one relatively thin cut being made throughout substantially the entire thickness dimension of each lug down to the exterior surface of the carcass belt to reduce the force required to stretch the heavy lugs of the track as the track changes direction when being moved over the circumferential surfaces of the rubber-tired drive wheels of the vehicle's track suspension system.