Volvo Sfinx - Concept Tracked Excavator
Presented here is the third concept model depicting Volvo's view into the future of construction equipment. The model is 1:50th scale and highlights a number of concepts and interesting design chioces which may some day find themselves on production equipment.
The boom and stick have been designed to lower weight whilst providing strength and the lattice structure is certainly an interesting way forward with the angles and curves modelled very well. It is interesting that, for all the futuristic aspects of the machine, the movement of the digging arm is powered with hydraulic cylinders
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The undercarriage of the model excells with functionality. Each of the four track frames is mounted to a pivoting arm.
Operating individually, the mechanisms offer excellent stable travel across very uneven terrain and this can be fully demonstrated on the model. The upper guide wheel in each track frame can be positioned to increase the surface area of the tracks for additional floatation on soft ground which is another great touch (pictured left) |
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The mounting allows the entire track frame to rotate, reducing the contact area of the tracks on the ground for high speed travel (pictured right) |
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The super structure can rotate through 360 degrees and has some interesting aesthetic curves to the engine compartment with open sides and integrated light lenses on the rear corners.
The rear counterweight can be extended to increase stability and lifting capacity and the counterweight is finished in silver with the Volvo logo and diagonal stripe embossed into the surface.
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Another interesting design feature of the machine is the ability to disconnect the cabin, allowing the machine to travel into hazardous areas while keeping the driver safe and sound while having full remote control. This is functional on the model with the cab clipping into place on the body One of the concept ideas is for the cab to be attached to a telescoping and pivoting arm allowing it to lower to the ground for easy operator access but this is not functional on the model. The cab is highly detailed with the lattice pillars providing strength while allowing an unobstructed view and the seat, complete with arm mounted controls and computer display screen have all been included. |
While no 1:1 version of the machine exists, it is interesting that Volvo have decided to commission models of their concept machines and while they are not for everyone, they are certainly out of the ordinary and showcase some interesting ideas.
