Study of Detracking Risks of Track Systems

Abstract

Detracking is a complex phenomenon. It may occur to a tracked vehicle during turning manoeuvres, moving over obstacles, or operating on uneven surfaces. A fundamental study of detracking is lacking. As a first step in the study of this complex process, this paper focuses on the analysis of the necessary condition for detracking under steady state operations, such as in a steady turning manoeuvre on deformable terrain. The necessary condition for detracking is that the slacks in certain track segments are such that they enable the track to override the outside diameter of the sprocket or idler. Based on the analysis, detracking risk indicators have been developed for evaluating and comparing the risk for disengagement of track drive lugs or track guides from the sprocket or idler. These indicators have been applied to the evaluation of detracking risks of a segmented metal track system commonly used in current fighting vehicles and a rubber-band track system proposed for future combat vehicles. It has been found that track system configuration (including the location of the sprocket and idler), initial track tension, and braking or driving torque applied to the sprocket have significant influences on detracking. The track longitudinal stiffness and suspension stiffness have relatively insignificant effects on detracking.