Self-aligning idler wheel assembly
AssigneeCatepillar Inc.
InventorElmer R. Crabb
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A self-aligning idler wheel assembly for a belted work vehicle includes a spindle having first and second radially extending flange portions. First and second self-aligning mechanisms are associated with a respective flange portion. The vehicle has an undercarriage assembly including a belt tensioning mechanism and a roller frame assembly. The first self-aligning mechanism connects the idler wheel assembly to the belt tensioning mechanism and the second self-aligning mechanism connects the idler wheel assembly to the roller frame assembly. The first and second self-aligning mechanisms provide self-aligning of the idler wheel assembly to ensure that the track belt runs straight and true.
Claims20
A self-aligning idler wheel assembly for a vehicle having a roller frame and an endless elastomeric belt which encircles the idler wheel assembly and which supports and propels the vehicle, said idler wheel assembly comprising:
- a spindle having first and second spaced apart shaft portions and a middle portion having first and second radially extending flange portions;
- first and second plates rotatably connected to respective first and second shaft portions;
- first and second wheels connected to respective first and second plates;
- and
- first and second self-aligning mechanisms connected to respective first and second flange portions.
A self-aligning idler wheel assembly for a vehicle having a roller frame, said idler wheel assembly comprising:
- a spindle having first and second spaced apart shaft portions and a middle portion having first and second flange portions;
- first and second spaced apart wheels rotatably connected to respective first and second shaft portions;
- a first self-aligning mechanism, including a spherical bearing assembly, connected to said first flange portion;
- a second self-aligning mechanism, including a universal type apparatus, connected to said second flange portion;
- and
- means for pivotally connecting said second self-aligning mechanism to said roller frame.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.