Experiment of maneuverability of flexible mono‐tread mobile track and differential‐type tracked vehicle

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to compare the maneuverability of flexible mono‐tread mobile track (FMT) and usual differential‐type tracked vehicle (DTV) through some experiments. A new mobile mechanism: FMT has been proposed which is employing “flexible chain” and vertebral structure, thereby the body flexes in 3D. As a result of the specific turning mechanism, steering performance of FMT is different from that of DTV. Hence, maneuverability of FMT and DTV would be different. Design/methodology/approach – The vehicles are maneuvered to trace two types of lines: a semi‐circle and right‐angled line segments by four operators. The distance and the displacement of direction of the vehicles from the target line are measured. The maneuverability was discussed based on the experimental results for FMT and DTV. Findings – Some of the characteristic features on maneuverability of FMT and DTV have been made clear. Originality/value – FMT is a new mobile mechanism for tracked‐vehicle and the maneuverability of FMT is discussed.