Variable tread width vehicle

摘要

A system and method for varying the tread width of a vehicle. The system includes extensible shafts coupled to the wheels of the vehicle. Eccentric cylinders rotate out of frictional locking engagement with the extensible shafts to allow the extensible shafts to be extended or refracted to adjust the tread width of the vehicle. The eccentric cylinders rotate into frictional locking engagement with the extensible shafts to reduce undesired travel of the extensible shafts during vehicle operation.

主权项

1. A vehicle comprising:
(a) a frame; (b) a wheel; (c) a sleeve coupled to the frame; (d) a shaft coupled to the wheel, wherein the shaft is provided at least partially within the sleeve and configured for telescopic lateral movement relative to the sleeve; (e) a first actuator coupled to the shaft; (f) an eccentric engaged to the shaft, wherein the eccentric is pivotable between a first position locking the shaft in place against lateral movement relative to the sleeve and a second position unlocking the shaft against lateral movement relative to the sleeve; and (g) a second actuator coupled to the eccentric, wherein the second actuator is powered.