An endless-track load-transfer system for vehicle support, movement, drive, braking and steering

摘要

A tracked vehicle utilises load transferring loops 16, circulating in laterally disposed planes, to transmit loads or forces between the vehicle and the external supporting surface. The loops make it possible to provide extended linear ground contact and steering is provided by flexing the loops. The vehicle has bearing units 20 incorporating rollers engaging the upper surface of each loop. The loops can be tubes containing fluid, e.g. air. The arrangement can be used in a variety of adaptations using mechanical, electromagnetic or fluid pressure friction reduction systems between vehicle and load transfer loops and can, with suitable design modifications run on any surface however soft or hard including rails. It can be used to provide support and movement, including steering braking and drive using any preferred power source for any type of vehicle including wheelchairs, road vehicles or agricultural machinery.