Development methodology of the driving wheel of the crawler with a solid rubber reinforced track on the example of a multifunctional crawler platform “Tankograd T-1500” with a standard layout

The article presents a study dedicated to developing a methodology for designing drive wheels for tracked propulsion systems equipped with solid rubber-reinforced tracks. This type of track offers several advantages, such as simplified assembly processes, improved traction and adhesion characteristics, and suitability for use on public roads. However, their structural features, including the presence of conditional joints and geometric limitations on rim length, necessitate adaptation of traditional approaches to drive wheel design. The proposed methodology includes steps for determining the geometric parameters of the propulsion system, calculating the initial diameter of the drive wheel, and determining the number of teeth. It emphasizes the importance of accounting for track elasticity, which affects tooth spacing, as well as selecting optimal contact angles to ensure smooth meshing and minimize wear. Significant attention is paid to the analysis of tooth profiles, which critically impact the reliability and durability of the propulsion system. The practical significance of the methodology is confirmed through its application in designing a tracked propulsion system based on the “Tankograd T-1500” platform, developed by the Youth Design Bureau of South Ural State University. A Russian-made Composit 230.48.60 track is used as an example. Modern engineering software tools, such as Autodesk Inventor, were utilized for calculations and design visualization. The conclusion is that the proposed methodology enhances the precision and efficiency of designing drive wheels for rubber-reinforced tracks. The article also outlines directions for further research, including optimization of tooth profiles, refinement of contact angles, and development of software for automating calculations. The findings can be valuable for designing other types of tracked propulsion systems and adapting the methodology to various configuration solutions.