Multicaterpillar Track Chassis of Big Machines - Identification of Loads

Abstract

Multicaterpillar track chassis are used in the biggest machines. This kind of chassis is commonly used in open cast mines for mobile transfer conveyor or for bucket wheel excavators. In each machine the chassis consist of 6 to 12 caterpillar tracks, which some are steered. Existing models used for analytical calculations are based on simplified relations taken from quasistatic equations of stability and geometrical connections. The complex research was conducted on mobile transfer conveyor, which is used in open cast mine. The aim of measurements was to identify the value of force that acts on elements of chassis during the steering and driving the machine. The measurements were taken during the drive in different directions, with different positions of center of gravity. The strain gauges were used to measure the deformation on each caterpillar track, trusses and drawbar.