Laboratory Model of the Joint Connection in the Carrying Structure of the Excavator Undercarriage

Abstract

The laboratory model presented in this paper covers the formation of a new concept of connection between the revolving and non-revolving parts of transportation and earth-moving machinery. The new concept of connection is oriented toward providing better adaptability to the path along which the machine is moving and improvement of the function of indirect elements made in the form of large diameter bearings (type Rothe Erde) with the increased reliability in operation and speed of operations. The connections between revolving and non-revolving structures of transportation and earth-moving machinery have developed under the influence of different operation and structural requirements. However, the conceptual solutions so far (realized in the shape of "X" and "H" types) do not provide reliable and long operation of indirect elements (large diameter bearings) inserted between the revolving and non-revolving parts. The problem set for the model is a requirement how to structurally provide relief and reliable operation of the indirect element (large diameter bearings) inserted between the revolving and non-revolving parts of the excavator carrying structure. Unlike the existing solutions with a rigid connection, the new solution is based on the joint connection for the purpose of torsional relief of the carrying structure of the excavator undercarriage. The solution is conceived in such a way that, in addition to excavators, it can be applied to other transportation and earth-moving machinery.