초록 ▼

The present invention is a flotation apparatus converting a land excavator for amphibious operation. The conversion package comprises a pair of elongated pontoon assemblies secured to each other in a spaced apart manner by transverse support beams telescopically and detachably connected to transvers

The present invention is a flotation apparatus converting a land excavator for amphibious operation. The conversion package comprises a pair of elongated pontoon assemblies secured to each other in a spaced apart manner by transverse support beams telescopically and detachably connected to transverse sleeves located in each pontoon the beams fitted with a base to support and attach a land excavator in an operational manner. Each pontoon includes an endless track guided around it longitudinally and threaded around a head and tail sprocket assembly, the tail sprocket assembly being inboard and fully protected, driven by a hydraulically motor attached to a fully enclosed internal gear reducer. The endless track, configured with only two chain runs on each pontoon, is attached to a light weight traverse channel cleats A series of polymer guide or wear blocks are also provided, attached to each cleat. The head and tail sprocket assemblies include stub shaft and bushing bearings lubricated by an internal oil reservoir with full submersion of the gear reducer.

대표청구항 ▼

1. An adaptation of flotation apparatus to an earth excavator comprising:a) a pair of pontoons with each pontoon comprising; i) a forward and rear bearing support members; ii) a notch in an upper portion of said pontoon to receive said rear bearing support members and associated drive sprocket assem

1. An adaptation of flotation apparatus to an earth excavator comprising:a) a pair of pontoons with each pontoon comprising; i) a forward and rear bearing support members; ii) a notch in an upper portion of said pontoon to receive said rear bearing support members and associated drive sprocket assembly inboard of said pontoon; iii) at least one sleeve member passing transversely through said pontoon; iv) a pair of upper and lower chain guide channels extending the length of and attached to said pontoon; v) a pair of wear plates located between said lower chain guide channels extending the length of and attached to each said pontoon; vi) an endless chain assembly extending longitudinally around said pontoon and engaging said head and drive sprocket assemblies said chin assembly comprising a pair of parallel roller chains having a plurality of channel members attached perpendicularly thereto each of said channel members having a pair of polymeric guide members attached between said roller chains; vii) a head sprocket assembly adjustably attached to said forward bearing support members engaging said chain assembly; viii) a drive sprocket assembly attached to said rear bearing support engaging said chain assembly; and b) a means for connecting each of said pontoons one to the other in a detachable manner said means telescopically slidable within said sleeve member and connected thereto; and c) an adapter for attaching an excavator to said means for connecting each of said pontoons.