Patent Description:
Today, there are two types of tractors - rubber tire (wheel) and crawler track. Further, crawler track tractors can have either steel tracks or rubber tracks. Rubber tire tractors usually have large rear tires, resulting in a wider vehicle footprint, such as over <NUM> feet. Steel or rubber track crawlers have two, side-by-side, parallel tracks that also result in a wider vehicle footprint, also possibly over <NUM> feet.

These tractors are primarily used in agriculture and earth-moving applications. Several field operations have the need for narrow width tractors. In agricultural applications, narrow spaces within rows of standing crops, for example in vineyards, need to be accessed by tractors that draw an implement like a plough or a cultivator; hence, they require high tractive pull within a narrow width. Similarly, earth-moving applications in reduced access areas, like telephony cables lying in urban lanes, require a narrow footprint tractor with significant tractive pull.

When comparing tractive efficiency of different types of tractors, though steel track crawlers offer high traction and low ground pressure as compared to rubber tires or track types, they are generally not used on asphalt (e.g., paved) roads, as they destroy the road surface. Rubber tire or rubber track vehicles offer on-road transportation but have significantly lower tractive efficiency off-road as compared to steel track crawlers.

<CIT> discloses a steerable tracklaying unit whose circulating track can be pivoted perpendicularly with respect to the plane of circulation and is guided on a guide frame which has a plurality of frame sections which are connected to one another in an articulated fashion, at least two of which sections can be pivoted with respect to one another about a vertical axis, which extends through the centre of the joint connection, and can be secured for the purpose of steering the tracklaying unit by means of a steering device. In order to improve the off-the-road properties of such a tracklaying unit, the invention proposes that the track be forceably guided on all sides on the guide frame, that several frame sections have in the longitudinal region of the tracklaying unit drive devices, which drive the track, with engagement elements which engage positively in the track, and that the frame sections be connected to one another in a spacially articulated fashion and have additional steering devices by means of which they can each be pivoted with respect to one another about a horizontal axis which extends through the centre of the joint connection and transversely with respect to the longitudinal extent of the tracklaying unit, and can be locked.

The following disclosure obviates or mitigates at least one of the foregoing conditions.

In an aspect, there is provided a non-claimed crawler vehicle comprising: a first chassis; a power pack disposed in the first chassis; a first sprocket set rotatably coupled to the first chassis and connected to the power pack to drive the first sprocket set along a direction of travel; a first fulcrum pivotally coupled to the first chassis along the direction of travel; a first idler set coupled to the first fulcrum; and a first crawler track comprising a plurality of slats linked end to end to form a continuous track, each slat being pivotally coupled to its neighbouring slats to permit horizontal and vertical movement therebetween, the first crawler track being disposable around the first sprocket set and the first idler set.

In a particular case, the non-claimed crawler vehicle further comprises a control system in communication with the power pack for controlling speed and steering of the non-claimed crawler vehicle.

In a further case, the first crawler track further comprises one or more central blocks to which connecting pins are fastened.

In another case, the first chassis is fitted with a vertical guide idler set and a horizontal guide idler set that are operably connected to the first crawler track.

In yet another case, the first sprocket set and the first idler set are controllable to turn in a same direction to cause the first crawler track to traverse in a serpentine manner.

In yet another case, the first idler set is steerable about the first fulcrum.

In yet another case, the first sprocket set is steerable about the first fulcrum.

In yet another case, the first sprocket set and the first idler set control steering of the non-claimed crawler vehicle by turning in left and right directions about the first fulcrum.

In yet another case, the first sprocket set and the first idler set control steering of the non-claimed crawler vehicle by turning in varying steering angles.

In yet another case, the non-claimed crawler vehicle further comprises a first connecting member fastened to the first chassis for attaching to a second connecting member.

In yet another case, the non-claimed crawler vehicle further comprises: a second chassis; a second sprocket set rotatably coupled to the second chassis and connected to the power pack to drive the second sprocket set along the direction of travel; a second fulcrum pivotally coupled to the second chassis along the direction of travel; a second idler set coupled to the second fulcrum; a second crawler track comprising a plurality of slats linked end to end to form a continuous track, each slat being pivotally coupled to its neighbouring slats to permit horizontal and vertical movement therebetween, the second crawler track being disposable around the second sprocket set and the second idler set; and the second connecting member fastened to the second chassis for attaching to the first connecting member.

In yet another case, the non-claimed crawler vehicle further comprises a control system in communication with the power pack for controlling speed and steering of the non-claimed crawler vehicle.

In yet another case, the non-claimed crawler vehicle further comprises: four wheel hub sets, a first two of the four whee hub sets attaching a first two tires to the first sprocket set, and a second two of the four wheel hub sets attaching a second two tires to the first idler set.

In yet another case, the first two tires and the second two tires comprise rubber.

In yet another case, at least one of the first sprocket set and the first idler set rests on ground.

In yet another case, at least one of the first sprocket set and the first idler set is above ground.

In yet another case, the non-claimed crawler vehicle further comprises: four wheel hub sets comprising a first wheel hub set, a second wheel hub set, a third wheel hub set, and a fourth wheel hub set, the first wheel hub set attaching a first tire to the first sprocket set, the second wheel hub set attaching a second tire to the second sprocket set, the third wheel hub set attaching a third tire to the first idler set, and the fourth wheel hub set attaching a fourth tire to the second idler set.

In yet another case, the first tire, the second tire, the third tire, and the fourth tire comprise rubber.

In yet another case, the control system steers the non-claimed crawler vehicle by applying at least one of differentia speed and differential direction steering to the first crawler track and the second crawler track.

In yet another case, the control system steers the non-claimed crawler vehicle by turning at least one of the first idler set and the first sprocket set in a left or right direction.

In yet another case, the control system steers the non-claimed crawler vehicle by turning at least one of the first idler set and the first sprocket set in an inward direction.

In yet another case, the first connecting members is a male connecting member and the second connecting member is a female connecting member.

In yet another case, the non-claimed crawler vehicle further comprises a hitch attached to at least one of a front anc rear of the first chassis.

In yet another case, the non-claimed crawler vehicle further comprises a hitch attached to at least one of a front anc rear of at least one of the first connecting member and the second connecting member.

In yet another case, the hitch is rotatable such that the hitch can be pressed on a ground to lift the crawler track to at least a height of a wheel.

According to the invention, there is provided a steerable track for a crawler vehicle, the steerable track comprising: a plurality of slats linked end to end to form a continuous track, each slat being pivotally connected along a vertical axis to a first link at a first end, and pivotally connected along a horizontal axis to a second link at a second end, wherein the first link provides a pivotal engagement along the horizontal axis to a first neighbouring slat and the second link provides a pivotal engagement along the vertical axis to a second neighbouring slat.

In a particular case, each pivotal engagement is provided by connecting pins disposed through the slats and the links.

A greater understanding of the embodiments will be had with reference to the figures, in which:.

Embodiments will now be described with reference to the figures. For simplicity and clarity of illustration, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements. In addition, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments described herein. However, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments described herein may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, and components have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the embodiments described herein. Also, the description is not to be considered as limiting the scope of the embodiments described herein.

Various terms used throughout the present description may be read and understood as follows, unless the context indicates otherwise: "or" as used throughout is inclusive, as though written "and/or"; singular articles and pronouns as used throughout include their plural forms, and vice versa; similarly, gendered pronouns include their counterpart pronouns so that pronouns should not be understood as limiting anything described herein to use, implementation, performance, etc. by a single gender; "exemplary" should be understood as "illustrative" or "exemplifying" and not necessarily as "preferred" over other embodiments. Further definitions for terms may be set out herein; these may apply to prior and subsequent instances of those terms, as will be understood from a reading of the present description.

The present disclosure provides a high tractive efficiency, narrow footprint, steel track crawler tractor, and methods of use thereof. Advantageously, embodiments of the disclosed tractor provide a singly steerable, serpentine steel track crawler tractor for demanding tractive applications in narrow access areas. Further, embodiments of the disclosed tractor provide the ability to ply over paved roads by means of easily attachable rubber tires. The tractor is thereby highly versatile in off-road and on-road environments, as well as in narrow and wide area applications.

The inter-conversion between the steel track crawler and rubber tire vehicles is easy and quick, with minimal changeover of elements involved in the process. It will be appreciated that although the embodiments described herein refer to steel track crawlers, other suitable materials known in the art for track crawlers are contemplated, such as aluminum, rubber, or a combination or steel and rubber. Also, it will be appreciated that although the embodiments described herein refer to rubber tires, other suitable materials known in the art for tires are contemplated, such as steel reinforced rubber, solid rubber, air-inflated rubber, or metal tires used in construction and road paving applications.

Conventional crawler tractors have been in existence for over a century. They typically have two crawler tracks arranged side by side. This increases the width of the tractor, hence limiting its usage in narrow inter-crop rows in agriculture and narrow urban lanes.

There have been attempts to create a single steerable steel crawler track, but they have generally failed due to cumbersome, if not impossible, steering mechanisms. Also, there have been attempts to steer a single flexible rubber track, but they are generally rendered ineffective due to lower traction and high slippage compared to steel crawlers, and also reduced life due to steering of the track. Embodiments described herein provide a solution to the above problems by allowing a single steel crawler track to steer utilizing two degrees of freedom for chain links. These two degrees of freedom let the chain links steer the crawler track about idler sets and/or sprocket sets. This results in a single crawler track that can steer and navigate through narrow access areas. As described, the front wheel guides the vehicle through a turn, although embodiments are contemplated wherein the rear wheel is steered.

Inter-crop operations in agriculture are frequently performed using small rotary tillers that can access narrow spaces in crop rows. But these tillers are not useful for open field (no crop) operations like ploughing. Hence, a farmer needs to employ a large tractor for these demanding traction applications. For small-scale farmers, especially in developing countries, this is a financial and operational burden. Embodiments described herein provide a solution by providing means to connect two single crawler tracks, thus forming a dual crawler tractor for open field operations such as ploughing. Also, the higher width of dual tracks means the tractor can be used in slopes and hilly terrain. The farmer can use one vehicle for inter-crop and open-field operations.

Conventional crawler tractors have to be loaded and hauled in a truck or a tractor trailer. They are not easy to move from one field to another field for farming or earth-moving operations. Rubber track crawlers do ply on roads, but they are inefficient in the field compared to steel crawler tractors. Embodiments described herein provide a solution by providing a quick and easy means to attach rubber tires to the crawler tracks. This does not need complex mechanical transmission elements and can be achieved within minutes. With rubber tires, the crawler tractor can ply on a road, be driven from site to site on its own without the need for a truck, and haul loads on the tractor as well as using a trailer.

Steering of conventional crawler tractors or skid steers is achieved by differential speed or direction steering where the tracks or wheels skid to turn. Skidding increases wear and tear of mechanical components and rubber tires, hence reducing life. Embodiments described herein provide a solution by allowing multiple combinations of steering arrangements including front and rear steering, inward steering, and differential speed and direction steering. These arrangements reduce skid and slippage, thus reducing stress and wear and tear on components.

The annual utilization of heavy machinery for open field operations in farming is quite low. For example, in tropical climates, where crops are grown in three or four seasons, the number of days the field is open (i.e., without crop) is less than <NUM> days a year. For these open field operations like ploughing, the farmer has to employ a heavy tractor that usually remains idle for the rest of the year during inter-crop operations. Especially in developing countries, a small-scale farmer or earth moving operator finds it difficult to purchase and operate heavy machinery for low utilization. Embodiments described herein provide a more economical product, in that it provides a realistic solution to split the cost between multiple operators. For example, two operators can each purchase an independent single-track crawler tractor. Each single track can be used by them independently for a narrow access operation. When the need for open field operations arises, the two single-track crawler tractors can be combined into a dual-track crawler for use by both farmers. This brings cost savings to small operators engaged in farming and earth moving.

Normally, narrow vehicles have an inherent issue of stability. Embodiments described herein lower the center of gravity by fitting all elements of the tractor, including the engine, power pack, idlers, and sprockets, very close to the ground. This results in higher stability despite narrow width. This also results in the ability to convert to wider dual crawler tracks or rubber tires, giving the option to the operator to increase width in steep or difficult terrain.

Referring now to <FIG>, a non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM>, according to an embodiment, is shown. In a particular case, the non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM> is a singly steerable, serpentine, steel crawler track vehicle. The non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM> has a continuous, endless steel crawler track <NUM>. The crawler track <NUM> is driver by a sprocket set <NUM> at the rear of the non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM> and is guided by a front idler set <NUM> at the front of the non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM>.

The non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM> has a chassis <NUM> that can be fitted with a vertical guide idler set <NUM> on the top and bottom on the left and right side to guide the crawler track <NUM> while in motion. The chassis <NUM> can be fitted with a horizontal guide idler set <NUM> on the top and bottom on the left and right side to guide the crawler track <NUM> while in motion and during steering.

In an embodiment, the sprocket set <NUM> is directly mounted over a hydraulic motor gearbox <NUM>. The hydraulic motor gearbox <NUM> provides rotary motion for the sprocket set <NUM> about its horizontal axis. The hydraulic motor gearbox <NUM> is affixed to the chassis <NUM> using fasteners. In an embodiment, the hydraulic motor gearbox <NUM> may comprise a hydraulic motor, a planetary gearbox, and a housing to mount the sprocket set <NUM>.

In an embodiment, the front idler set <NUM> is mounted over a front axle <NUM>. The front axle <NUM> may be affixed to the fulcrum <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>) using bearings and a bearing housing. In an embodiment, the front idler set <NUM> and the front axle <NUM> are not power driven; i.e., they move freely about the bearings.

The crawler track <NUM> is a continuous, endless track of crawler slats <NUM> that may be connected by chain links <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>) via a central block <NUM> and connecting pins <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>), as explained more fully below.

The chassis <NUM> of the non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM> is fitted with a power pack <NUM>, which may include but is not limited to, an engine, a motor, a hydraulic pump, and a hydraulic power pack. The engine of the power pack <NUM> provides power (e.g., hydraulic power) to the non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM> for motion, steering, anc other operations, such as, but not limited to, lifting implements and driving a power take-off shaft. The sprocket set <NUM> is rotatably coupled to the chassis <NUM> and connected to the power pack <NUM> to drive the sprocket set <NUM> along a direction of travel. In various embodiments, the power pack <NUM> can be driven by electricity, diesel, gasoline, or similar means of providing power.

In an embodiment, the forward and reverse movement is accomplished with a hydraulic motor gearbox <NUM>, conventionally described as a "hydrostatic drive", which propels the sprocket set <NUM> at the rear of the nonclaimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM>. The sprocket set <NUM> propels the crawler track <NUM> along the ground.

The chassis <NUM> may be fitted with an operator seat <NUM>. The vehicle operator sits on the operator seat <NUM> and makes use of a hydraulic control valve set <NUM> to control the hydraulic functions including, but not limited to, the hydraulic motor gearbox <NUM> for forward and reverse movement of the non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM> steering, implement lifting, and power take-off. In various embodiments, the hydraulic power from the power pack <NUM> is transferred via flexible hydraulic hoses and/or hydraulic pipes to the hydraulic control valve set <NUM>. In an embodiment, one end of one or more flexible hydraulic hoses and/or hydraulic pipes is connected to the hydraulic pump of the power pack <NUM> and the other end is connected to the valves of the hydraulic control valve set <NUM>. In an embodiment, the flexible hydraulic hoses and/or hydraulic pipes are clamped to fixed members of the chassis <NUM>, such as a vertical bar <NUM>, so that they can stay clear of the moving parts, such as the crawler slats <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a perspective view of a single continuous, endless chain <NUM> formed with chain links, according to an embodiment. Chain links <NUM> wrap over the sprocket set <NUM> and front idler set <NUM>. The sprocket set <NUM> comprises a pair of sprockets arranged side by side. The front idler set <NUM> has a pair of idlers arranged side by side.

In an embodiment, the pair of sprockets of the sprocket set <NUM> at the rear are mounted side by side so as to have the round portion of the chain links <NUM> sit between the sprocket teeth and the middle of the chain links <NUM> pass through the gap between the pair of sprockets. The middle portion of the chain links <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>) acts as a guide for aligning chain links <NUM> while wrapping around the pair of sprockets of the sprocket set <NUM>.

In an embodiment, the pair of idlers of the front idler set <NUM> are mounted side by side so as to have the chain links <NUM> sit between the idlers. The crawler slats <NUM> are mounted on the chain links <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>). The crawler slats <NUM> pass over the front idler set <NUM> while the chain links <NUM> sit between the front idler set <NUM>, acting as a guide for aligning chain links <NUM> while wrapping around the pair of idlers of the front idler set <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the chain links <NUM> pass through a pair of front idlers of the front idler set <NUM> while the crawler slats <NUM> rest on the outer surface of the front idler set <NUM> serving as a guide. The chain can be given sufficient tension by means of a mechanical spring or hydraulic actuator.

The orientation of the continuous, endless chain <NUM> in <FIG> provides an example where the nonclaimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM> moves in a straight direction as the front idler set <NUM> and sprocket set <NUM> are aligned with each other. In this orientation, the non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM> can move in the forward or reverse direction.

The front idler set <NUM> may comprise one or more idlers. The sprocket set <NUM> may comprise one or more sprockets. In an embodiment, the front idler set <NUM> comprises one idler while the sprocket set <NUM> comprises two similarly constructed sprockets.

<FIG> illustrates an exploded view of a central block chain link connection system <NUM>, according to an embodiment. Two chain links <NUM> are connected via a central block <NUM> and four connecting pins <NUM> and <NUM> to form a continuous, endless chain <NUM>. The connecting pins <NUM> and <NUM> can have external threading that can be fastened into internal threading of the holes in central block <NUM>. The heads of connecting pins <NUM> and <NUM> fit into the round holes of wings of chain links <NUM> holding them in place as well as connecting them to the central block <NUM>.

The chain links <NUM> shown in <FIG> have at least two axes of freedom: the vertical axis <NUM> about vertical connecting pins <NUM> and the horizontal axis <NUM> about horizontal connecting pins <NUM> connected via the central block <NUM>. The left chain link <NUM> can rotate about the central block <NUM> along the horizontal axis <NUM> of horizontal connecting pins <NUM>. The right chain link <NUM> can rotate about the central block <NUM> along the vertical axis <NUM> of vertical connecting pins <NUM>. These at least two degrees of freedom allow the non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM> to steer left or right, while the continuous, endless chain <NUM> wraps around the sprocket set <NUM> and front idler set <NUM>.

Advantageously, the horizontal axis <NUM> of freedom allows the chain links to wrap around the sprocket set <NUM> and front idler set <NUM>. The vertical axis <NUM> of freedom allows the left chain link <NUM> to steer with respect to the right chain link <NUM>.

In conventional crawler tractors, the chain links of crawler tracks have only one degree of freedom via the horizontal axis to wrap around sprockets and idlers. The chain links are constrained, i.e., do not have a second degree of freedom about the vertical axis.

<FIG> illustrates a top view of a singular steering arrangement of a single crawler track <NUM> steering in a right direction, according to an embodiment. When the front idler set <NUM> rotates towards the right (clockwise) about its vertical axis <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>), the chain links <NUM>, that fit within the pair of front idlers of the front idler set <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>), also steer towards the right. The crawler slats <NUM> attached to the chain links <NUM> as shown in <FIG> are also steered towards the right. Hence, the crawler slats <NUM> as shown in <FIG> steer towards the right.

This is a "singular steering" arrangement where only the front idler set <NUM> is used to steer the nonclaimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM>. This singular steering mechanism allows the crawler track <NUM> of the non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM> to steer in either the right or left direction. The non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM> can steer while in a forward or rear direction of motion.

The crawler slats <NUM> shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, which form a part of the crawler track <NUM>, rest on the ground and propel the non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM> in a forward or reverse direction, while also providing traction and steering.

<FIG> illustrates a front view of a portion of the crawler track <NUM> of <FIG>. Two chain links <NUM> are connected to crawler slats <NUM>. The crawler slats <NUM> fit on the outside of the chain links <NUM>, i.e., towards the ground side of the chain links. In various embodiments, the crawler slats <NUM> can be welded or fastened to the chain links <NUM> or cast in one piece with the chain links <NUM>. In an embodiment, every chain link <NUM> is attached to at least a crawler slat <NUM> by means of fasteners. The crawler slats <NUM> rest on the ground while the chain links <NUM> provide propulsion from the sprocket set <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a top view of a portion of the crawler track <NUM> of <FIG>. The crawler slats <NUM> connected via chain links <NUM>, the central block <NUM>, and connecting pins <NUM> and <NUM> form a continuous endless crawler track <NUM>. In an embodiment, the crawler slats <NUM> have eight sides, with narrowing sides at an angle. This is done to allow the crawler slats <NUM> to steer about each other without colliding onto its adjacent crawler slats <NUM>. In another embodiment, the crawler slats <NUM> can be of rectangular shape where a crawler slat <NUM> slips under its adjacent crawler slat <NUM> during a turn without colliding with the adjacent crawler slat <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a top view of a steering mechanism <NUM> of a non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM>, according to an embodiment. <FIG> illustrates a perspective view of the steering mechanism <NUM> of <FIG>. The front idler set <NUM> is steered by means of a hydraulic cylinder mechanism. A fulcrum <NUM> is fixedly coupled to the front idler set <NUM>. In an embodiment, the front idler set <NUM> is mounted over a front axle <NUM>. The front axle <NUM> may be affixed to the fulcrum <NUM> using bearings and a bearing housing. In an embodiment, the front idler set <NUM> and the front axle <NUM> are not power driven; i.e., they move freely about the bearings. The fulcrum <NUM> is pivotally connected to the chassis <NUM> using a first bracket <NUM> and can rotate about its vertical axis <NUM>. The fulcrum <NUM> is also pivotally connected to a first end of a hydraulic cylinder <NUM> using a second bracket <NUM>. The other end of the hydraulic cylinder <NUM> is pivotally connected to the chassis <NUM> using a third bracket <NUM>. The hydraulic cylinder <NUM> provides the actuation force for steering the track, by rotating the fulcrum <NUM> in either the right or left direction about the vertical axis <NUM>. In an embodiment, the operator of the non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM> controls the actuation of the hydraulic cylinder <NUM> by means of the hydraulic control valve set <NUM>. This steers the front idler set <NUM> and hence steers the chain links <NUM>, crawler slats <NUM>, and non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM>. An example of such steering of the non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM> is illustrated in <FIG>. In various embodiments, the ports of the hydraulic cylinder <NUM> are connected to the hydraulic control valve set <NUM> via flexible hydraulic hoses and/or hydraulic pipes. These flexible hydraulic hoses and/or hydraulic pipes transfer energy by means of pressurized hydraulic fluid from the power pack <NUM> via the hydraulic control valve set <NUM> for the actuation of the hydraulic cylinder <NUM>. The flexible hydraulic hoses and/or hydraulic pipes can be connected between the hydraulic control valve set <NUM> and the ports of the hydraulic cylinder <NUM> on the same side as where the hydraulic cylinder <NUM> is connected to the chassis <NUM> (e.g., at the third bracket <NUM> as shown in <FIG>). In an embodiment, the flexible hydraulic hoses and/or hydraulic pipes are clamped to fixed members of the chassis <NUM> such as a vertical bar <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) so that they can stay clear of the moving parts (e.g., the crawler slats <NUM>).

In an embodiment, the sprocket set <NUM> is directly mounted over a hydraulic motor gearbox <NUM>. The hydraulic motor gearbox <NUM> provides rotary motion for the sprocket set <NUM> about its horizontal axis. The hydraulic motor gearbox <NUM> is affixed to the chassis <NUM> using a fourth bracket <NUM> and fasteners. In an embodiment, the hydraulic motor gearbox <NUM> comprises a hydraulic motor, a planetary gearbox, and a housing to mount the sprocket set <NUM>. In an embodiment, the operator of the non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM> controls the hydraulic motor of the hydraulic motor gearbox <NUM> by means of the hydraulic control valve set <NUM>. In various embodiments, the ports of hydraulic motor of the hydraulic motor gearbox <NUM> are connected to the hydraulic control valve set <NUM> via flexible hydraulic hoses and/or hydraulic pipes. These flexible hydraulic hoses and/or hydraulic pipes transfer energy by means of pressurized hydraulic fluid from the power pack <NUM> via the hydraulic control valve set <NUM> for the rotation of the hydraulic motor of the hydraulic motor gearbox <NUM>. The flexible hydraulic hoses and/or hydraulic pipes can be connected between the hydraulic control valve set <NUM> and the hydraulic motor of the hydraulic motor gearbox <NUM> on the same side as where the hydraulic motor gearbox <NUM> is connected to the chassis (e.g., at the fourth bracket <NUM> as shown in <FIG>). In an embodiment, the flexible hydraulic hoses and/or hydraulic pipes are clamped to fixed members of the chassis <NUM> such as a vertical bar <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) so that they can stay clear of the moving parts (e.g., the crawler slats <NUM>).

The crawler track <NUM>, and hence the non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM>, can steer independently, i.e. without the need for a second, parallel crawler track. This advantageously reduces the width and hence footprint of the non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM>, allowing it to traverse through narrow access areas of agricultural and earth-moving applications. As is known in off-road applications, in embodiments the steel crawler track <NUM> provides higher tractive efficiency over comparable rubber tire or rubber track vehicles. Steel tracks can provide a significant increase in traction over rubber tires or tracks. Rubber on soil gets its traction from friction which comes with slippage, but steel tracks claw into the ground (i.e., do not depend on friction and hence have no slippage).

<FIG> illustrates a front view of a horizontal and vertical idler guiding system <NUM> guiding the crawler track <NUM> in the direction of travel and steering to the left and right, according to an embodiment. <FIG> illustrates a top view of the horizontal and vertical idler guiding system <NUM> of <FIG>. In <FIG>, a portion of the crawler track <NUM> is shown, though not labelled, but can be identified by its constituent crawler slats <NUM>.

The crawler track <NUM> comprising the chain links <NUM> passes through a horizontal guide idler arrangement <NUM>. The crawler slats <NUM> are guided by a vertical guide idler arrangement <NUM>. The vertical guide idler arrangement <NUM> comprises one or more idlers <NUM> arranged one behind the other to guide the crawler slats <NUM> along the ground and also to spread the weight of the vehicle over the ground. The horizontal guide idler arrangement <NUM> comprises idler rollers <NUM> that act as a guide for the chain links <NUM>, and hence crawler slats <NUM>, in the direction of travel and also while steering left or right between the front idler set <NUM> and sprocket set <NUM>.

In <FIG>, only the bottom horizontal guide idler arrangement <NUM> and the vertical guide idler arrangement <NUM> have been illustrated for simplicity. In various embodiments, a same or similar arrangement for guiding the crawler track <NUM> is provided at the top and bottom of the crawler track <NUM>.

These horizontal <NUM> and vertical <NUM> idler arrangements function to guide and stabilize the crawler track <NUM> as well as direct the crawler track <NUM> along the path between the sprocket set <NUM> and front idler set <NUM>. In addition, the vertical guide idler arrangement <NUM> assists in spreading the vehicle weight uniformly over the bottom crawler slats <NUM> resting on the ground.

<FIG> illustrates a perspective view of a dual steering arrangement of a continuous, endless chain <NUM> steering in a right direction, according to an embodiment. <FIG> illustrates a top view of the dual steering arrangement of the continuous, endless chain <NUM> of <FIG>. As shown in <FIG>, for the continuous, endless chain <NUM> to steer in the right direction, the rear sprocket set <NUM> rotates in the counter-clockwise direction, and the front idler set <NUM> rotates in the clockwise direction as seen from the top.

The dual steering arrangement of the continuous, endless chain <NUM> steers the crawler track <NUM>, and hence the non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM>. As shown in the <FIG>, the sprocket set <NUM> also steers in the opposite direction along with the front idler set <NUM>. The sprocket set <NUM> steers the non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM> in the same direction as the front idler set <NUM>. The advantage of this "dual" steering arrangement is that the nonclaimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM> turns in a shorter turning radius as compared to the "singular" steering arrangement illustrated in <FIG>.

In an embodiment, a second set of an independent fulcrum <NUM> and hydraulic cylinders <NUM> as shown in <FIG> are used to steer the sprocket set <NUM> about its vertical axis <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a top view of a singular steering arrangement of a continuous, endless chain <NUM> steering in the right direction, according to an embodiment. Similar to <FIG>, this is a "singular" steering arrangement where only the front idler set <NUM> steers the non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM> towards the right or left The sprocket set <NUM> remains aligned to the direction of travel of the non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM> in this arrangement.

<FIG> illustrates a top view of a continuous, endless chain <NUM> moving in a serpentine manner, according to an embodiment. The rear sprocket set <NUM> and the front idler set <NUM> turn in the same direction with each other, i.e., clockwise as shown in <FIG>. The sprocket set <NUM> and the front idler set <NUM> are steered in a such a manner that they are parallel to each other, while the chain links <NUM> connect them in a continuous endless crawler track <NUM>. Advantageously, this serpentine fashion allows the non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM> to come out of tight corners and narrow spaces without having to take a partial or full turn. The serpentine traversal and steering ability of the crawler track <NUM> makes it very maneuverable in tight spaces. In various embodiments, the sprocket set <NUM> and the front idler set <NUM> may be nonparallel, yet still be turned in the same direction with each other (e.g., clockwise as in <FIG>), but to varying degrees, while still causing the crawler track <NUM> to traverse in a serpentine manner. Traversing in a serpentine manner may cause the middle straight portion of the crawler track <NUM> to skid so that the non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM> can come out of a tight space without having to take a partial or full turn.

<FIG> and <FIG> show a continuous, endless chain <NUM> steering in the right direction. The front idler set <NUM> and/or the sprocket set <NUM>, chain links <NUM>, and crawler slats <NUM> can be steered in the left or right direction, hence allowing the non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM> to steer with a single continuous, endless crawler track <NUM>.

Advantageously, this steering arrangement provides the means to steer a non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM> and traverse in a serpentine fashion. In comparison, a conventional crawler type vehicle has two crawler tracks in a side-by-side parallel arrangement, which are steered by differing the speed and/or direction of one track vis-a-vis the other track. Such a two crawler track vehicle is significantly wider, hence restricting its application in narrow width access.

<FIG> illustrates a perspective view of a non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM>, according to an embodiment. Ir the non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM>, two single crawler tracks <NUM> are arranged in a side-by-side dual-track arrangement. The two independent continuous, endless single crawler tracks <NUM> are connected side-by-side, in parallel, fastened with male and female connecting members <NUM> and <NUM> (seen in <FIG>) in between them.

In embodiments, the two single crawler tracks <NUM> can be the same, similar, or different crawler track designs. The male and female connecting members <NUM> and <NUM> can be adapted to join the two crawler tracks <NUM> (possibly of different design) to form a non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM>.

In an embodiment, each single crawler track <NUM> can be driven by a power pack <NUM>. In an embodiment, one of the single crawler tracks <NUM> can have a power pack <NUM> and the hydraulic power from the one power pack <NUM> as source can be provided to the second crawler track <NUM> by means of "quick connect/disconnect" hydraulic hoses. In an embodiment, the second crawler track <NUM> is driven by a hydraulic motor gearbox <NUM>, conventionally termed as a hydrostatic drive. In an embodiment, a mechanical transmission is used to provide drive to one or more crawler tracks <NUM>.

In an embodiment, two or more such crawler tracks <NUM> can be connected together to form a nonclaimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM>. Each such crawler track <NUM> can have its own independent power pack <NUM> or source power from another crawler track <NUM>. In an embodiment, the independent power packs <NUM> of each crawler track <NUM> can be used to provide power to hydraulic motor gearboxes <NUM> driving the sprocket sets <NUM> and the hydraulic steering cylinders <NUM> for steering operation of the crawler track <NUM>. In an embodiment, the hydraulic control valve set <NUM> to control the power packs <NUM> can be mounted on one of the crawler tracks <NUM> so that one operator can control one or more power packs <NUM> from the operator seat <NUM> at any given time.

In various embodiments, a power pack <NUM>, mounted on any one of the tracks, is used to provide hydraulic power to both crawler tracks <NUM> via hydraulic hoses or mechanical transmission. The hydraulic hoses from the power pack <NUM> and/or mechanical transmission means drive power to the sprocket sets <NUM> via hydraulic motors and/or transmission gearboxes. The hydraulic hoses from the power pack <NUM> and/or mechanical actuation provide power for hydraulic cylinders <NUM> or the mechanical steering mechanism. The hydraulic hoses from the power pack <NUM> and/or mechanical actuation provide implement lifting, control, and power for implements. An operator from the operator seat <NUM> uses a hydraulic control valve set <NUM> to control hydraulic functions on both crawlers tracks <NUM>, such as, but not limited to, forward and reverse motion hydraulic motors, steering, and implement control.

In an embodiment, each crawler track <NUM>, left and right, is driven by an independent hydraulic motor gearbox <NUM> providing propulsion to the sprocket set <NUM> on each track. Each crawler track <NUM> also has an independent front idler set <NUM> fitted over a front axle <NUM>. The hydraulic power from the power pack <NUM> is transferred by means of "quick connect/disconnect" hydraulic hoses to the left and right crawler tracks <NUM> after connecting them together. This provides an easy and quick transformation of two single crawler tracks <NUM> into a non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM>.

In an embodiment, steering of the multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM> can be achieved by either or a combination of two steering mechanisms. The first is by differing speed of one crawler track <NUM> vis-a-vis the other. This is similar to how conventional crawler tracks, with side-by-side, parallel crawler tracks, are steered. The second is by steering the front idler set <NUM> and/or sprocket set <NUM> of each of the crawler tracks <NUM> about the vertical axis <NUM> as shown in <FIG>.

This transformation of two or more independent single crawler tracks <NUM> into a non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM> is advantageous when the multi-track crawler track vehicle <NUM> is used in an open access environment, where vehicle width is not of concern. Examples where vehicle width is not of concern include: ploughing operations in open fields, i.e., while crops are not yet sowed; earth-moving applications such as wide area leveling; and bulldozing performed in open, wide access areas.

This easy and quick transformation from a non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM> to a non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM> makes the vehicle versatile for narrow access as well as open access areas, as desired by the operator's needs. The ability to carry out this transformation combines the advantages of wide crawler track vehicles (e.g., for earth-moving and agricultural applications) with the narrow access singly steerable crawler track vehicle.

<FIG> illustrates a top view of a male-to-female crawler track connection <NUM> of a non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM>, according to an embodiment. The male connecting member <NUM> is shown attached to a right crawler track <NUM>. The female connecting member <NUM> is shown attached to a left crawler track <NUM>. The male <NUM> and female <NUM> connecting members together form the connecting member <NUM> of the non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM>. The left crawler track <NUM> and right crawler track <NUM> can detach and attach to each other using the male <NUM> and female <NUM> connecting members attached to them respectively. Thus, the multi-track crawler can transform from two single-track crawlers <NUM> and <NUM> to a non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM> using the connecting member <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a top view of a connecting member system <NUM>, according to an embodiment. <FIG> illustrate various perspective views of the connecting member system <NUM> of <FIG>. The male connecting member <NUM> and the female connecting member <NUM> of connecting member <NUM> are shown separately in <FIG>. These male <NUM> and female <NUM> connecting members are connected to either one of two or more single crawler tracks <NUM> respectively. Once the crawler tracks <NUM> come close to each other, the frusto-pyramid-shaped male connecting member <NUM> fits into the frusto-pyramid-shaped female connecting member <NUM>, aligning the two or more single tracks in parallel with each other. Once the male <NUM> and female <NUM> connecting members fit into each other, the two or more single crawler tracks <NUM> are attached using fasteners to form a rigid connection, thus forming the male-to-female crawling track connection <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. In various embodiments, the connecting members can have one or more male or female members. In other embodiments, the male and female connecting members can have prismatic, conical, or other suitable shapes to assist alignment of the right and left crawler tracks <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a perspective view of a non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle fitted with rubber tires <NUM>, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, the non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) can be fitted with four or more rubber tires <NUM> (e.g., two on the left and two on the right side of the non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM>)
Wheel hub sets <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) can be used to attach the rubber tires <NUM> with fasteners to the sprocket set <NUM> and front idler set <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates an exploded view of a rubber wheel connection system <NUM>, according to an embodiment. As shown in the <FIG>, the rubber tires <NUM> are attached to the front idler set <NUM> and the sprocket set <NUM> of the crawler tracks <NUM> by means of wheel hubs <NUM> and fasteners. The wheel hubs <NUM> make it easy for attaching and detaching the rubber tires <NUM>. In an embodiment, the wheel hubs <NUM> may comprise metal flanges and a seamless pipe welded together.

In an embodiment, the diameter of the tires <NUM> is larger than the overall height of the crawler track <NUM>. The crawler tracks <NUM> are lifted above the ground to fit the wheel hub sets <NUM> and rubber tires <NUM>. This lifting can be achieved by means of hydraulic or mechanical lifting jacks. In an embodiment, three-point hitches <NUM> and/or <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>) of each crawler track <NUM> are pressed against the ground to lift the crawler track <NUM> above the ground enough to fit the rubber tires <NUM>. In various embodiments, one or more three-point hitches <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> (as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>) at the front and/or rear of a non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM> are pressed against the ground to lift the crawler track <NUM> high enough above the ground to fit the rubber tires <NUM>.

In an embodiment, for the forward and rear motion of the vehicle, the rubber tires <NUM> are connected to the sprocket set <NUM> via the wheel hub sets <NUM>, and hence are propelled along with the sprocket set <NUM> by the hydrostatic power provided by the power pack <NUM>. The front rubber tires <NUM> are directly connected to the front idler set <NUM> via the wheel hub sets <NUM> and hence are propelled when the front idler set <NUM> is propelled by the moving chain track. This makes it an all-wheel-drive vehicle, as the front idlers are "driven" by the crawler track and hence all wheels are driven. The crawler track <NUM> can also be dismantled after the rubber tires <NUM> are installed. The rubber tires <NUM> can be directly driven by the sprocket set <NUM> and/or the front idler set <NUM>, or by a separate mechanical transmission from the power pack <NUM>.

In an embodiment, steering of a non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle fitted with rubber tires <NUM> can be achieved ir the same manner as for the non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM>. This can be achieved in one of two ways (or both)
The first is differing speed or direction of one crawler track <NUM> vis-a-vis the other. This is similar to how conventional crawler tracks or skids, with side-by-side crawler tracks or tires, are steered. The rubber tires <NUM> on the slower of the two crawler tracks <NUM> skid to accommodate for this difference in speed or direction of the crawler tracks <NUM>. The second is steering both the front idler set <NUM> and/or sprocket set <NUM> of each track about their vertical axis <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>). The rubber tires <NUM> attached to the front idler set <NUM> and/or sprocket set <NUM> via wheel hub sets (as shown in <FIG>) also steer accordingly, giving a turning movement to the vehicle. The vehicle <NUM> can be steered in either the left or right direction, while in forward or reverse motion.

The crawler tracks <NUM> on the non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle fitted with rubber tires <NUM> can be above the ground due to a larger diameter of the rubber tires <NUM>, and hence the crawler track <NUM> does not touch the ground in this rubber tire arrangement. Only the rubber tires <NUM> rest on the ground. This allows the vehicle to ply on asphalt (paved) roads on rubber tires <NUM> without the crawler tracks <NUM> touching the paved road. In an embodiment, the crawler tracks <NUM> are also moving along with the rubber tires <NUM>, in which case ground clearance does not become an issue even though the crawler track <NUM> is just slightly above the ground. The crawler tracks <NUM> may come in contact with the ground, but since they are moving in the same direction as the rubber tires <NUM>, they do not become an obstruction to the motion of the vehicle <NUM>. For example, there may be instances where there is uneven terrain and the crawler tracks <NUM> contact the ground, yet without bearing the weight of the vehicle <NUM>. Advantageously, the contact is not of concern because the crawler tracks <NUM> are moving. The crawler tracks <NUM> may bear the weight of the vehicle <NUM> if the rubber tires <NUM> get lifted off the ground say due to a small mound that comes only under the crawler track <NUM> and not a rubber tire <NUM>.

The ability to ply on paved roads on rubber tires is advantageous for quick self- transportation, i.e., without the need for a separate truck to carry the non-claimed crawler vehicle. This is advantageous for hauling loads on paved roads using a trailer.

Advantageously, the non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM> is transformable into a non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle fitted with rubber tires <NUM>. The process of attaching tires is quick and easy. In various embodiments, no separate drive elements like transmission are required during this conversion.

<FIG> illustrates a perspective view of a non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle fitted with rubber tires <NUM> according to an embodiment. Similar to the non-claimed multi-track crawler fitted with rubber tires <NUM>, four or more rubber tires <NUM> are attached to a non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM> on either side. Four rubber tires <NUM> can be fitted to the left and right side of the non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM> using wheel hub sets <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>) mounted or the front idler set <NUM> or sprocket set <NUM>. In various embodiments, one or more three-point hitches <NUM> and/or <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>) at the front and/or rear of the vehicle <NUM> are pressed against the ground to lift the crawler track <NUM> high enough above the ground to fit the rubber tires <NUM>.

In an embodiment, the same steering mechanism that allows a non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM> to steer (e.g., as shown in <FIG>) is utilized to steer the crawler when rubber tires <NUM> are fitted to the non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle fitted with rubber tires <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. The front idler set <NUM> and/or sprocket set <NUM> steer about the vertical axis <NUM> of the non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle fitted with rubber tires <NUM> as exemplified by the steering mechanism <NUM> of <FIG>. This steers the vehicle <NUM> in the left or right direction while in a forward or reverse motion.

The transformation of a non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM> to a non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle fitted with rubber tires <NUM> is advantageous when one crawler track is being used in a field application, i.e., without the need to connect a second crawler track to the vehicle.

<FIG> illustrates a front view of a front and rear hitch equipped non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM> according to an embodiment. <FIG> illustrates a top view of the front and rear hitch equipped non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM> of <FIG> illustrates a perspective view of the front and rear hitch equipped non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM> of <FIG>. The connecting member <NUM> and/or the chassis of a non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM> may support the mounting of hitches, such as three-point hitches <NUM> and <NUM> for attaching implements to the non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM>. The implement hitches can be connected to the front <NUM> and/or the rear <NUM> of the non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM>. A dozer blade <NUM> is shown as an exemplary implement attached to the front hitch <NUM> of the front and rear hitch equipped non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM>. In an embodiment, the front and rear hitches can be added before or after the front and rear hitch equipped non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM> is transformed into a rubber tire vehicle (e.g., as shown in <FIG>).

<FIG> illustrates a perspective view of a front and rear hitch equipped non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM> according to an embodiment. The chassis <NUM> of the non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM> supports the mounting of hitches, such as three-point hitches <NUM> and <NUM> for attaching implements to the non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM>.

The implement hitches can be connected to the front <NUM> and/or the rear <NUM> of the non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM>. In an embodiment, the front and rear hitches can be added before or after the non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM> is transformed into a rubber tire vehicle (e.g., as shown in <FIG>).

Implements can be attached at the front and rear of the crawler track vehicles (e.g., those shown in <FIG> and <FIG>) for being pushed or pulled by the crawler track vehicle. Implements like a plough or cultivator can be attached for agriculture applications, and a trencher, bulldozer, or leveler for earth-moving applications.

<FIG> illustrates an exploded view of a chain link connection <NUM>, according to an embodiment. Similar to in <FIG>, chain links <NUM> are shown connected to each other via a central block <NUM> and connecting pins <NUM> and <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, the central block <NUM> is connected to the chain links <NUM> with a horizontal connecting pin <NUM> and a vertical connecting pin <NUM>. In an embodiment, the horizontal connecting pin <NUM> is held in its position by split pins <NUM> and <NUM> on either side of the horizontal connecting pin <NUM>. In an embodiment, the vertical connecting pin <NUM> is held in its position by its own counter head at the bottom and a split pin <NUM> at the top. The central block <NUM> has its vertical and horizontal holes offset to each other (as shown in <FIG>). The horizontal <NUM> and vertical <NUM> pins, and hence the horizontal axis <NUM> and the vertical axis <NUM> respectively, do not intersect (i.e., are offset to each other).

<FIG> illustrates a front view of a central block <NUM>, according to an embodiment. <FIG> illustrates a side view of the central block <NUM> of <FIG> illustrates a top view of the central block <NUM> of <FIG> illustrates a perspective view of the central block <NUM> of <FIG>. The central block <NUM> has two holes that are perpendicular but offset from each other to fit connecting pins <NUM> and <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. The vertical axis <NUM> and horizontal axis <NUM> of the two holes of the central block <NUM> provide two degrees of freedom to the chain link <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. <FIG> illustrate an embodiment where the two axes of freedom <NUM> and <NUM> do not need to be concentric; i.e., they may be offset to each other. It will be understood that other suitable shapes, locations, or configurations of the holes may be used to facilitate connection of chain links.

<FIG> illustrates an exploded view of a chain link connection <NUM>, according to an embodiment. The chain link connection <NUM> shows how chain links <NUM> can be connected by connecting pins <NUM> and <NUM> without the need for a central block. The connecting pin <NUM> fits within a cylindrical hole of the chain link <NUM> with a degree of freedom about the horizontal axis <NUM>. The connecting pin <NUM> fits in the cylindrical hole in the chain link <NUM> and connecting pin <NUM> with a degree of freedom about the vertical axis <NUM>. In the chain link connection <NUM>, a central block is not necessary to the connect chain links <NUM> with two axes of freedom <NUM> and <NUM> of the crawler track <NUM> of the non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a perspective view of a multi-steering arrangement <NUM> of a non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM>, according to an embodiment. <FIG> illustrates a top view of the multi-steering arrangement <NUM> of <FIG>. As shown in <FIG>, multiple idler sets <NUM> and/or multiple sprocket sets <NUM> can turn in varying angles about their vertical axes <NUM> to steer the non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM> in the right or left direction while in a forward or reverse motion. In various embodiments, one or more idler sets <NUM> and/or sprocket sets <NUM> turning at varying angles can be used to steer the non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM>. In an embodiment, at least one sprocket set <NUM> (shown as the middle sprocket set <NUM> in <FIG>) may be connected to the chassis <NUM>. Each idler set <NUM> or sprocket set <NUM> can be connected to its adjacent idler set <NUM> or its adjacent sprocket set <NUM> via a fulcrum <NUM> and is able to rotate about the vertical axis <NUM> of the fulcrum <NUM>. Each idler set <NUM> or sprocket set <NUM> can rotate about its vertical axis <NUM> by actuating the hydraulic cylinder <NUM> connected to either end of each fulcrum <NUM>, thus providing steering motion to the crawler track <NUM>. These various embodiments illustrate that multiple sprocket sets <NUM> and/or idler sets <NUM> can steer at varying angles providing a multi-steering arrangement. In various embodiments, a sprocket set <NUM> or an idler set <NUM> is connected to the chassis <NUM> of the nonclaimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM>. In various embodiments, the sprocket sets <NUM> and/or idler sets <NUM> are connected to each other via their fulcrums <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a block diagram of a top view of differential speed steering <NUM> of a non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM>, according to an embodiment. As shown in <FIG>, the non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM> can be steereo by differing speeds of the left crawler track <NUM> vis-a-via the right crawler track <NUM>. The left crawler track <NUM> can be faster or slower than the right crawler track <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a block diagram of a top view of differential direction steering <NUM> of a non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM>, according to an embodiment. As shown in <FIG>, the non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM> can be steered by a differing direction of motion of the left crawler track <NUM> vis-a-via the right crawler track <NUM>. The left crawler track <NUM> can move in the opposite direction as the right crawler track <NUM>.

In various embodiments, either or both steering methods, differential speed and differential direction as shown in <FIG>, may be used to steer the multi-track vehicle. As shown in <FIG>, the left crawler track <NUM> and right crawler track <NUM> may be connected together via a connecting member <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a block diagram of a top view of differential speed steering <NUM> of a non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle fitted with rubber tires <NUM>, according to an embodiment. As shown in <FIG>, the non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle fitted with rubber tires <NUM> can be steered by differing speeds of the left crawler track <NUM> vis-a-vis the right crawler track <NUM> similar to <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrates a block diagram of a top view of differential direction steering <NUM> of a multi-track crawler vehicle fitted with rubber tires <NUM>, according to an embodiment. As shown in <FIG>, the multi-track crawler vehicle fitted with rubber tires <NUM> can be steered by differing direction of motion of the left crawler track <NUM> vis-a-vis the right crawler track <NUM> similar to <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrates a block diagram of a top view of front steering <NUM> of a non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM> according to an embodiment. As shown in <FIG>, the non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM> can be steered by turning the front idler set <NUM> (not shown) of the left crawler track <NUM> and the right crawler track <NUM>. To assist in doing a tighter turn, the left crawler track <NUM> can be run faster or slower than the right crawler track <NUM>. The left crawler track <NUM> can also move in the reverse direction of the right crawler track <NUM>. One or a combination of these steering methods can be used to steer the non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM>. In an embodiment, the rear sprocket set <NUM> of the left crawler track <NUM> and the right crawler track <NUM> can also be steered about its vertical axis <NUM> to steer the non-claimed multi-track crawler as shown in <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrates a block diagram of a top view of front steering <NUM> of a non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle fitteo with rubber tires <NUM> using wheel hubs <NUM> (shown in <FIG>), according to an embodiment. As shown in <FIG>, the non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle fitted with rubber tires <NUM> can be steered by turning the front idler set <NUM> (not shown) of one or both of the left crawler track <NUM> and right crawler track <NUM> and also a combination of differing speed and/or direction of the left crawler track <NUM> vis-a-via the right crawler track <NUM> similar to <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrates a block diagram of a top view of front and rear inward steering <NUM> of a non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM>, according to an embodiment. As shown in <FIG>, the non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM> car be steered by turning the front idler set <NUM> and the sprocket set <NUM> of the left crawler track <NUM> and the right crawler track <NUM> inward. To assist in doing a tighter turn, further the left crawler track <NUM> can be faster or slower than the right crawler track <NUM>. The left crawler track <NUM> can also move in the opposite direction as the right crawler track <NUM>. Either or a combination of these steering methods can be used to steer the non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a block diagram of a top view of front and rear inward steering <NUM> of a non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle fitted with rubber tires <NUM>, according to an embodiment. As shown in <FIG>, the non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle is fitted with rubber tires <NUM> using wheel hubs <NUM> (shown in <FIG>). The rubber tires of the non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM> can be steered by turning the front idler sets <NUM> and the sprocket sets <NUM> inward and optionally a combination of differing speed and/or direction of the left crawler track <NUM> vis-a-via the right crawler track <NUM> similar to in <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrates a block diagram of a top view of front inward steering <NUM> of a non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM>, according to an embodiment. As shown in <FIG>, the non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM> can be steered by turning the front idler set <NUM> of the left crawler track <NUM> inward in the opposite direction of the front idler set <NUM> of the right crawler track <NUM>. The left crawler track <NUM> can also move in the opposite direction or a differential speed vis-a-vis the right crawler track <NUM>. Either or a combination of these steering methods can be used to steer the non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM>. The sprocket sets <NUM> of one or both crawler tracks can be steered to achieve a turn for the non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a block diagram of a top view of front inward steering <NUM> of a non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle fitted with rubber tires <NUM>, according to an embodiment. As shown in <FIG>, the non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle is fitted with rubber tires <NUM> using wheel hubs <NUM> (shown in <FIG>). The rubber tires of the nonclaimed multi-track crawler vehicle <NUM> can be steered by turning the front idler set <NUM> of the left crawler track <NUM> inward in the opposite direction of the front idler set <NUM> of the right crawler track <NUM>. The left crawler track <NUM> can also move in the reverse direction of the right crawler track <NUM>. Either or a combination of these steering methods can be used to steer the non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle fitted with rubber tires <NUM>. The sprocket sets <NUM> of one or both crawler tracks can be steered to achieve a turn for the non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle fitted with rubber tires <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a block diagram of a top view of single fulcrum steering <NUM> of a non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM>, according to an embodiment. As shown in <FIG>, the non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle <NUM> can be steereo by turning the front idler set <NUM> in the opposite direction of the sprocket set <NUM>. In an embodiment, the vertical axis <NUM> of the front idler set <NUM> and the sprocket set <NUM> of the crawler track <NUM> is the same; i.e., the front idler set <NUM> and the sprocket set <NUM> rotate about the same vertical axis <NUM>. This results in a tighter turn than that shown in <FIG> and <FIG> where the front idler set <NUM> and the sprocket set <NUM> may have distinct fulcrums <NUM> and hence vertical axes <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a block diagram of a top view of single fulcrum steering <NUM> of a non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle fitted with rubber tires <NUM>, according to an embodiment. As shown in <FIG>, the non-claimed single-track crawler vehicle fitted with rubber tires <NUM> can be steered by turning the front idler set <NUM> of the crawler track <NUM> in the opposite direction of the sprocket set <NUM> similar to in <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrates a block diagram of a top view of a non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle fitted with sixteen rubber tires <NUM>, according to an embodiment. <FIG> illustrates a block diagram of a top view of a non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicle fitted with eight rubber tires <NUM>, according to an embodiment. Two or more single crawler tracks <NUM> can be connected via one or more connecting members <NUM>. One or more rubber tires <NUM> can be on either side of each of the crawler tracks <NUM>. One or more rubber tires <NUM> can be fitted to a side of each of the crawler tracks <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a block diagram of a front view of a two-sprocket arrangement <NUM> for a crawler track <NUM>, according to an embodiment. As shown in <FIG>, the crawler track <NUM> can have two driving sprocket sets <NUM>, one in the front and one in the rear. In other embodiments, the crawler track <NUM> can have three or more driving sprocket sets <NUM>. In an embodiment, the crawler track <NUM> can have one or more idler sets <NUM> to guide and steer the crawler track <NUM> and its elements.

<FIG> illustrates a block diagram of a front view of a first sprocket and idler arrangement <NUM> for a crawler track <NUM>, according to an embodiment. As shown in <FIG>, the crawler track <NUM> can have one or more driving sprocket sets <NUM> above the ground, i.e., not resting on the ground. The crawler track <NUM> can have one or more idler sets <NUM> resting on the ground to guide and steer the crawler track <NUM> and its elements. In another embodiment, the crawler track <NUM> can have one or more idler sets <NUM> above the ground to guide the crawler track <NUM> and its elements.

<FIG> illustrates a block diagram of a front view of a second sprocket and idler arrangement <NUM> for a crawler track <NUM>, according to an embodiment. As shown in <FIG>, the crawler track <NUM> can have one or more driving sprocket sets <NUM> resting on the ground. The crawler track <NUM> can have one or more idler sets <NUM> resting on the ground to guide and steer the crawler track <NUM> and its elements. In another embodiment, the crawler track <NUM> can have one or more idler sets <NUM> above the ground to guide the crawler track <NUM> and its elements.

Advantageously, embodiments of the disclosed non-claimed crawler vehicles achieve quick and easy interchangeable transformations: a singly steerable, serpentine steel track crawler for narrow access, demanding traction applications; a dual side-by-side, parallel track crawler for open access, demanding traction applications; and a four (or more) rubber tire arrangement, with single or dual tracks, for on-road applications.

Embodiments of the disclosed non-claimed crawler vehicles bring versatility to the agriculture and earth-moving applications by combining the advantages of steel crawlers and rubber tire arrangements.

Embodiments of the disclosed non-claimed crawler vehicles utilize hydraulic power to propel, control, and steer the vehicle. It will be understood that it is possible to provide a mechanical transmission, and differential, control, and steering arrangements in other embodiments.

Embodiments of the disclosed non-claimed crawler vehicles utilize steel to craft various elements such as chain links crawler slats, the chassis, idler sets, sprockets, and hitches of the vehicle. Also, embodiments of the disclosed non-claimed crawler vehicle utilize rubber tires for plying on roads. It will be understood that it is possible to provide other suitable materials.

Embodiments of the disclosed non-claimed crawler vehicles may utilize safety and protection arrangements such as roll-over protection bars.

Embodiments of the disclosed non-claimed crawler vehicles may be controllable without having an operator seated or the vehicle. Such embodiments can employ a remote-control mechanism, such as a remotely controlled hydraulic valve system. The operator in such cases can be near the non-claimed crawler vehicle, for example, walking behind/beside the tractor, or be far away from the non-claimed crawler vehicle. Such a system may not need an operator seat and manual contro system on the crawler tractor.

Embodiments of the disclosed non-claimed crawler vehicles may be fitted with an autonomous, computer-controlled driverless control system. Such a system may not need an operator seat and manual control system on the crawler tractor.

Embodiments of the disclosed non-claimed multi-track crawler vehicles may have more than two crawler tracks. Where an embodiment has three or more crawler tracks, the adaptations, arrangements, attachments, configurations, connections, conversions, designs, fittings, methods, systems, and/or transformations described herein may be extended where desirable or necessary to allow for the additional crawler track(s).

Claim 1:
A steerable track for a crawler vehicle (<NUM>), the steerable track comprising a plurality of slats (<NUM>) linked end to end to form a continuous track (<NUM>), each slat (<NUM>) being pivotally connected along a vertical axis (<NUM>) to a first link (<NUM>) at a first end, and pivotally connected along a horizontal axis (<NUM>) to a second link (<NUM>) at a second end, wherein the first link (<NUM>) provides a pivota engagement along the horizontal axis (<NUM>) to a first neighbouring slat (<NUM>) and the second link (<NUM>) provides a pivotal engagement along the vertical axis (<NUM>) to a second neighbouring slat (<NUM>).