Lawn mower collection container fill indicator assembly

Abstract

A collection container fill indicator assembly and a lawn mower having a collection container fill indicator assembly are provided. The collection container fill indicator assembly includes a capacitive element configured to be disposed adjacent to a collection container of the lawn mower to detect a fill status of the collection container, and an interference guard disposed around a portion of the capacitive element to shield the capacitive element from interference.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application 63 / 180,290, filed April 27, 2021, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to lawn mower collection container filling indicators, and more specifically to lawn mower bag filling indicators. Background Technology

[0004] Lawn mowers typically consist of a mower platform that defines a cutting volume that houses one or more blades. As the blades rotate, they cut the grass below to create grass clippings. These clippings are usually expelled from the mower platform by the force generated by the rotation of the blades. Some lawn mowers leave these clippings on the surface below. For example, mulch blades can cut the clippings into small particles that can remain on the surface to provide nutrients. Other lawn mowers collect these clippings in a collection container, allowing the operator to empty the clippings at the desired time and location. By collecting the clippings, the lawn is left with a cleaner appearance. Furthermore, removing the clippings prevents them from accumulating over time and allows the lawn mower to be used for collection operations, similar to leaf picking.

[0005] Traditionally, operators have detected when a collection container is full by visually inspecting it, pushing on the outside of the container to feel resistance, or other similar methods. These methods typically require the operator to pause mowing, thus wasting time and reducing mowing efficiency. Furthermore, these methods lack accuracy and may not be executed at the appropriate time.

[0006] If the operator does not notice that the collection container is nearing full capacity, grass clippings (which would otherwise be captured and removed from the surface below) may begin to accumulate on the surface below. This may require the operator to perform a second cleanup on the surface after emptying the collection container, further wasting time.

[0007] Therefore, an improved lawn mower collector container fill indicator assembly is desired in the art. In particular, a lawn mower collector container fill indicator assembly that provides better detection of collector container fill would be advantageous. Summary of the Invention

[0008] As described herein, aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, or may be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention.

[0009] According to one embodiment, a collection container fullness indicator assembly is provided. The collection container fullness indicator assembly includes: a capacitive element configured adjacent to a collection container arrangement of a lawnmower to detect the fullness of the collection container; and an interference shield disposed around a portion of the capacitive element to shield the capacitive element from interference.

[0010] According to another embodiment, a lawnmower is provided. The lawnmower includes: a body having cutting tools, wherein the body is coupled to a walking element such that the body is movable relative to an underlying surface; a collection container coupled to the body to receive discharge from the body; and a collection container fill indicator assembly coupled to the body, wherein the collection container fill indicator assembly detects the fill status of the collection container and indicates when the collection container has reached a threshold fill level.

[0011] According to another embodiment, a method for emptying a collection container associated with a lawnmower is provided. The method includes: detecting the fill status of the collection container using a collection container fill indicator component; decoupling the collection container from the body of the lawnmower when an indicator of the collection container fill indicator component indicates that the collection container is at a threshold fill level, wherein decoupling the collection container from the body does not cause the collection container fill indicator component to move relative to the body of the lawnmower; and emptying the collection container.

[0012] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the invention will be better understood by referring to the following description and the appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the technology and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the technology. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Referring to the accompanying drawings, a full and authorized disclosure of the invention, including the best mode for making and using the systems and methods of the invention, is set forth in the specification for those skilled in the art, in which:

[0014] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a lawn mower according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0015] Figure 2 This is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a lawn mower according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0016] Figure 3 This is a front view of a collection container filling indicator component according to an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0017] Figure 4This is a perspective view of the internal volume of a lawn mower as seen from the left front side of the lawn mower according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein a portion of the lawn mower body has been removed.

[0018] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of a portion of a lawnmower as seen from the right rear side, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of a collection container filling indicator assembly according to an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0020] Figure 7 It is based on the embodiments disclosed herein. Figure 4 The view of the lawnmower's internal volume seen in box A, with part of the housing of the collection container fill indicator assembly removed; and

[0021] Figure 8 This is a flowchart of a method for operating a lawn mower according to an embodiment of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0022] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, with one or more examples of embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The term “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. Furthermore, each example is provided by way of explanation rather than limitation. Indeed, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications and variations can be made to the invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the claimed technology. For example, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment may be used with another embodiment to obtain yet another embodiment. Therefore, it is contemplated that this disclosure covers such modifications and variations falling within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. Numerical and alphabetic designations are used in the detailed description to refer to features in the figures. The same or similar designations in the drawings and description have been used to refer to the same or similar portions of the invention.

[0023] As used herein, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third” are used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another, and are not intended to indicate the order or importance of the components. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” or “the” include plural referents. Unless otherwise specified herein, the terms “coupled,” “fixed,” “attached,” etc., refer both directly to coupling, fixing, or attaching, and indirectly to coupling, fixing, or attaching through one or more intermediate components or features. As used herein, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” “has,” or any other variation thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, article, or apparatus that includes a list of features is not necessarily limited to those features, but may include other features not expressly listed or inherent to those processes, methods, articles, or apparatus. Furthermore, unless expressly stated to the contrary, “or” refers to inclusive “or” rather than exclusive “or.” For example, any of the following conditions satisfy either A or B: A is true (or exists) and B is false (or does not exist), A is false (or does not exist) and B is true (or exists), and both A and B are true (or exist).

[0024] For example, approximate terms such as “about,” “generally,” “roughly,” or “substantially” include values ​​up to 10 percent larger or smaller than the stated value. When used in the context of angles or directions, such terms include values ​​up to 10 degrees larger or smaller than the stated angle or direction. For example, “generally vertical” includes directions up to 10 degrees vertical in any direction (e.g., clockwise or counterclockwise).

[0025] The benefits, other advantages, and solutions to the problems are described below with reference to specific embodiments. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to the problems, and any features that may bring any benefit, advantage, or solution to or make more apparent should not be construed as key, essential, or essential features of any or all claims.

[0026] Typically, lawn mowers described herein may include collection containers (e.g., bags) that receive debris (e.g., grass clippings) from an underlying surface. A collection container fill indicator assembly of the lawn mower can indicate to the operator when the collection container has reached a predetermined fill threshold. In embodiments, the collection container fill indicator assembly can be operated by measuring the capacitance of the volume within the collection container. As the capacitance increases, the collection volume is filled. At a predetermined capacitance, the indicator of the collection container fill indicator assembly can indicate to the operator when it is time to empty the collection container. In embodiments, the collection container fill indicator assembly may be coupled to the body of the lawn mower and is not part of the collection container itself. More specifically, the capacitive element of the collection container fill indicator assembly may be coupled within the internal volume of the lawn mower. In this respect, the collection container fill indicator assembly (and more specifically, the capacitive element) can be unaffected by debris generated during mowing, exhibiting increased durability and providing a simpler operating experience for the operator. These and other advantages will become apparent to those skilled in the art after reading the entire disclosure.

[0027] Now refer to the attached diagram, Figure 1 A perspective view of a lawn mower (hereinafter referred to as a lawnmower) 100 is shown, comprising a body 102 that houses cutting implements (not depicted) disposed within a volume of a mower platform 104. The lawnmower 100 further includes a walking element 106. The depicted walking element 106 includes four wheels; however, in other embodiments, the walking element 106 may include other walking devices for moving the body 102 relative to an underlying surface S, such as pedals, rollers, a vent, etc. In some instances, at least a portion of the walking element 106 may be powered, i.e., the lawnmower 100 may be self-propelled. In other instances, the lawnmower 100 may be manually powered, for example, pushed by an operator. Although Figure 1 The lawnmower 100 depicted is a walk-behind lawnmower in which the operator stands behind and walks with the lawnmower 100, but in one or more embodiments not shown, the lawnmower 100 may be a ride-on lawnmower, a self-driving lawnmower or other types of lawnmower.

[0028] In the depicted embodiment, the lawnmower 100 further includes a handle 108 extending from the body 102. The handle 108 may include, for example, two vertical members 110 joined together at an upper member 112. The lawnmower 100 may include a user interface 114 that allows an operator to control the lawnmower 100. An exemplary user interface 114 includes a speed selector, a safety ring, an ON / OFF interface, etc. The handle 108 is rotatable relative to the body 102 about axis A. In this respect, the handle 108 may be rotated forward to a storage configuration to reduce the area covered by the lawnmower 100.

[0029] A collection container 116 may be arranged relative to the body 102 to receive debris, such as grass clippings, discharged from the lawnmower platform 104. In the depicted embodiment, the collection container 116 is positioned between the two vertical members 110 of the handle 108 at the rear of the lawnmower platform 104. In the depicted embodiment, the collection container 116 is a bag. The bag may include a rigid structure (e.g., an internal frame) to maintain at least some dimensional characteristics of the bag even when it is empty (i.e., the bag walls are not supported by the debris contained therein). In other embodiments, the collection container 116 may be a rigid structure, such as one or more plastic containers. The collection container 116 may be removed from the body 102 of the lawnmower 100 to allow the operator to empty the debris contained therein.

[0030] In an embodiment, the lawnmower 100 may further include a cover 118 configured to selectively cover the discharge chute 120 of the lawnmower platform 104 when the collection container 116 is not in use. Figure 4 As depicted, cover 118 can be removed to open slot 120, which connects lawnmower platform 104 to collection container 116. In the open position, cover 118 can be positioned at a vertical height above collection container 116. In an embodiment, cover 118 can rest at least partially on the upper surface of collection container 116.

[0031] In one or more embodiments, the lawnmower 100 may include a power unit 122 configured to power a cutting motor that drives the cutting implement or a propulsion motor to drive the walking element 106. The power unit 122 may include a battery, an engine, etc. In the depicted embodiment, the power unit 122 is a battery disposed above the lawnmower platform 104 and in front of the collection container 116. A light 124 may be disposed along the front side of the power unit 122 to illuminate the direction of travel.

[0032] Figure 2This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a lawnmower 100 depicting a collection container 116 containing grass clippings 126. As can be seen through the empty space 128, the grass clippings 126 do not fill the entire volume of the collection container 116. When mowing, the force generated by the cutting tool (alone or in combination with an additional force source, such as a bagging pressurization system) can push the grass clippings 126 toward the rear end of the collection container 116. As the grass clippings 126 settle within the collection container 116, a sloping leading edge 127 of the grass clippings 126 can begin to form. When operating on a sloping surface (such as a hill or rugged terrain), the leading edge 127 of the grass clippings 126 can present a different shape than when operating on a sloping surface (such as a hill or rugged terrain). Figure 2 The diagrams depict different shapes, angles, and forms.

[0033] In some instances, lawnmower 100 may include a tilt detector (not depicted) configured to detect tilt of lawnmower 100, such as the relative angular displacement of lawnmower 100 relative to the direction of gravity. When lawnmower 100 tilts, grass clippings 126 within collection container 116 can move and the aforementioned leading edge 127 can move. The lawnmower can utilize measurements from the tilt detector to at least partially inform the condition of the leading edge 127 for determining how full lawnmower 100 is at the current time. In this respect, lawnmower 100 can prevent undesirable collection container capacity readings as grass clippings 126 move within collection container 116.

[0034] During mowing, grass clippings 126 are discharged from the mower platform 104 into the collection container 116. As mowing continues, the amount of grass clippings 126 in the collection container 116 increases. Traditionally, the operator determines whether the collection container 116 is full by pushing it. As the collection container 116 is filled with grass clippings 126, the side walls of the collection container 116 become increasingly firm. By pushing the side walls of the collection container 116, the operator can roughly estimate how much empty volume remains inside the collection container 116. The greater the pushing resistance, the smaller the remaining empty volume. However, this estimation is not always accurate and requires the operator to stop mowing to check the capacity of the collection container 116.

[0035] As the volume of grass clippings 126 accumulates within the collection container 116, additional grass clippings 126 become more difficult to expel from the mower platform 104 into the collection container 116. In other words, the grass clippings 126 within the collection container 116 may form a barrier, preventing the entry of additional grass clippings 126 expelled from the mower platform 104. Typically, this occurs before the collection container 116 is completely full; that is, when the collection rate of grass clippings 126 begins to decrease, there is usually some volume of empty space 128 remaining within the collection container 116, causing grass clippings 126 to deposit from the mower platform 104 onto the lower surface S. To prevent this undesirable discharge of grass clippings 126 onto the lower surface S, the operator must empty the collection container 116 of the grass clippings 126. By way of non-limiting example, it is expected that the grass clippings 126 will be emptied from the collection container 116 before the volume of the grass clippings 126 exceeds 99% of the total volume of the collection container 116 (e.g., before the volume of the grass clippings 126 exceeds 95% of the total volume of the collection container 116, before the volume of the grass clippings 126 exceeds 90% of the total volume of the collection container 116, before the volume of the grass clippings 126 exceeds 85% of the total volume of the collection container 116, before the volume of the grass clippings 126 exceeds 80% of the total volume of the collection container 116, before the volume of the grass clippings 126 exceeds 75% of the total volume of the collection container 116, before the volume of the grass clippings 126 exceeds 70% of the total volume of the collection container 116, before the volume of the grass clippings 126 exceeds 65% of the total volume of the collection container 116).

[0036] According to the embodiments described herein, an operator can rely on the collection container fill indicator component 130 (hereinafter referred to as component 130) rather than pushing the collection container 116 to determine when the collection container 116 must be emptied. As described below, component 130 can generally rely on capacitance to detect the fill status of the collection container 116.

[0037] refer to Figure 3 Component 130 may generally include a capacitor element 132 that measures the capacitance between a sensor 134 of capacitor element 132 and grass clippings 126 contained in collection container 116. (See again...) Figure 2 Sensor 134 and grass clippings 126 are generally spaced apart by a distance D. As the distance D changes, that is, as the volume of grass clippings 126 contained in collection container 116 changes, the measuring capacitance C measured by sensor 134 changes. Specifically, for example, as the volume of grass clippings 126 increases, that is, as grass clippings 126 move closer to sensor 134, the measuring capacitance C increases. Conversely, as the volume of grass clippings 126 decreases (e.g., grass clippings 126 are emptied), the measuring capacitance C decreases. The amount of measuring capacitance can be related to the volume of grass clippings 126 disposed within collection container 116.

[0038] Refer again Figure 3 Component 130 may further include a circuit board, such as a printed circuit board (PCB) 136. In some instances, PCB 136 and sensor 134 may be part of a single structure. That is, for example, PCB 136 and sensor 134 may be coupled together via a common substrate 138. PCB 136 and sensor 134 may communicate electronically with each other. In this respect, the measured capacitance from sensor 134 may be transmitted to PCB 136. Then, when collection container 116 reaches a threshold fill level, PCB 136 may generate a signal, thereby creating an indication for the operator.

[0039] As depicted, according to an embodiment, sensor 134 can have a generally triangular shape. By other non-limiting examples, sensor 134 can have other polygonal shapes, such as square, pentagonal, other types of polygonal shapes, arcuate shapes, etc. The corners 140 of sensor 134 can be rounded. Rounded corners 140 can improve the linear response to capacitance measurements compared to shapes with acute angles. Given a selected sensing area, a rounded triangular design (e.g.) Figure 3 (As depicted in the text) can maximize the area of ​​capacitor element 132.

[0040] Interference shielding 142 may be disposed around at least a portion of capacitive element 132, for example, around at least a portion of sensor 134, to shield capacitive element 132 from interference that may affect capacitance measurement. In an embodiment, interference shielding 142 may include a protective plate 144 and an outer loop 146 coupled to the protective plate 144 and extending around the periphery of at least a portion of capacitive element 132. As depicted, protective plate 144 may be disposed behind capacitive element 132. When mounted on lawnmower 100, capacitive element 132 (and more specifically, sensor 134) may be disposed between protective plate 144 and the volume associated with collection container 116. In this respect, protective plate 144 may prevent interference that may arise from another part of lawnmower 100, for example, from power source 122 or from one or more motors of lawnmower 100. Outer loop 146 may extend around capacitive element 132 to shield capacitive element 132 from similar interference from the sides of assembly 130.

[0041] Interference protection 142 can increase the detection distance of capacitive element 132 in the direction associated with collection container 116 and provide unidirectional sensing. Therefore, interference protection 142 can increase capacitive sensitivity and accuracy, resulting in more reliable operation.

[0042] The references to specific components and their arrangement on PCB 136 below are for illustrative purposes only. Other components and arrangements are possible without departing from the scope of this disclosure. In an embodiment, PCB 136 may include a capacitance sensor integrated circuit (IC) 148 that detects when the capacitance measured by capacitance element 132 exceeds a predetermined threshold. PCB 136 may include a microcontroller 150 having data processing elements capable of controlling the sensitivity of capacitance sensor IC 148. A programming header 152 may allow selective programming of microcontroller 150. For example, programming header 152 may include electrical contacts (e.g., pins) that allow electrical attachment to a programming component. Using programming header 152, component 130 can be programmed and adjusted. In an embodiment, the same component 130 can be used with a variety of different lawnmower types. Programming header 152 may allow an operator or installation technician to set an appropriate threshold capacitance value for each lawnmower and collection container type. That is, different collection containers may be assigned different capacitance thresholds. PCB 136 may further include power contacts 154 that receive power from an external source (e.g., power source 122). A regulator 156 (e.g., a linear regulator) may progressively reduce the voltage received at the power contacts 154 of the components used on PCB 136. A first contact 158 ​​may be electrically coupled to an indicator described below for informing an operator of one or more states of the collection container 116. A second contact 160 may be electrically coupled to a switch described below for indicating the presence of the collection container 116 at the lawnmower 100. A driver 162 may provide a constant current along at least the first contact 158.

[0043] Figure 4 A view of the internal volume 164 of the body 102 as viewed from the left front side of the lawnmower 100, rearward toward the handle 108, is depicted, with a portion of the body 102 removed. In the depicted embodiment, component 130 is disposed within the internal volume 164 of the body 102 and is oriented such that sensor 134 faces rearward toward the collection container located behind slot 120 (in... Figure 4 (Not depicted in the text).

[0044] Switches 166 and 168 are positioned accordingly along retaining grooves 170 and 172. Switches 166 and 168 can detect the line 174 that couples the collection container 116 to the body 102. Figure 5The presence of wire 174 is indicated by the presence of the wire 174 within the retaining recesses 170 and 172. Switches 166 and 168 can communicate this presence to PCB 136 via the second contact 160. When wire 174 is not present in the retaining recesses 170 and 172, switches 166 and 168 can communicate this absence to PCB 136 via the second contact 160. Although not depicted, switches 166 and 168 can electronically communicate with PCB 136 via one or more wires (not shown) extending between switches 166 and 168 and one or more ports 175 of component 130.

[0045] In one embodiment, switches 166 and 168 may both be of the same type. In another embodiment, switches 166 and 168 may be different from each other. By way of non-limiting example, at least one of switches 166 and 168 may be a reed switch, a Hall effect sensor, a button sensor, a slide sensor, a toggle switch, a rotary switch, a pressure sensor, etc.

[0046] In an embodiment, component 130 may electronically communicate with indicator 178 via, for example, one or more ports 176. Indicator 178, described in more detail below, may provide an operator with an indication of the fill status of collection container 116. More specifically, indicator 178 may indicate to the operator when collection container 116 is at a threshold fill level. The threshold fill level may correspond to a threshold volume of grass clippings 126 set within collection container 116. In some instances, this threshold volume may be preset, for example, at the factory. In other instances, this threshold volume may be selected by the operator, for example, at user interface 114. In some embodiments, the threshold volume may be fixed. In other embodiments, the threshold volume may be adjustable.

[0047] Figure 5 A perspective view of a portion of the lawnmower 100, seen from the right rear side, at the interface between the collection container 116 and the body 102, is depicted. As depicted, the collection container 116 can be coupled to the body 102 via a line 174. In an embodiment, the line 174 may be part of the collection container 116 and selectively held on the body 102 via retaining recesses 170 and 172. An operator can release the line 174 from the retaining recesses 170 and 172, for example, by rotating and shifting the line 174 in a forward direction. Thus, the line 174 and the retaining recesses 170 and 172 can form a quick-release interface. Other exemplary coupling mechanisms between the collection container 116 and the body 102 include snap-fit, tie rod, threaded or unthreaded fasteners, etc. The collection container 116 can form a debris-proof interface with the body 102, thereby allowing most of the debris leaving the slot 120 to enter the collection container 116 without undesirably being discharged into the external environment.

[0048] As described above, indicator 178 indicates to the operator the fill status of collection container 116. The depicted indicator 178 is a visual indicator. Other indicators 178 may include audible indicators, tactile indicators, etc. The depicted indicator 178 includes two indicators: a first indicator 180 and a second indicator 182. The first indicator 180 may indicate whether component 130 is actively monitoring the fill status of collection container 116, i.e., whether component 130 is in an on state and actively monitoring the fill status, or in a off state. By way of non-limiting example, when a light (e.g., an LED) is on, the first indicator 180 may indicate active monitoring of the fill status. Conversely, when the first indicator 180 is off (e.g., the LED is not on), component 130 may not be actively monitoring the fill status of collection container 116. The second indicator 182 may indicate the fill status of collection container 116. More specifically, the second indicator 182 may indicate when the fill status has reached a threshold fill level. In this regard, the second indicator 182 is shown with a marking that reads "BAG FULL". When illuminated, the operator can determine when it is time to empty the full collection container 116. In some instances, the second indicator 182 may include a colored interface (e.g., an amber filter) that indicates an alarm message to the operator when illuminated, regardless of the illuminated marking.

[0049] In some instances, the second indicator 182 may be a binary indicator. That is, for example, the second indicator 182 may operate between an OFF state (where the operator assumes that the collection container 116 does not need to be emptied) and an ON state (where the operator is notified that the collection container 116 needs to be emptied). In other cases, the second indicator 182 may provide additional information, such as the relative remaining capacity of the collection container 116, the used volume of the collection container 116, etc.

[0050] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of assembly 130 is shown, including capacitor element 132 and PCB 136, indicator 178, and one of switches 166 or 168. As depicted, indicator 178 is electrically coupled to PCB 136 via first contact 158. Switch 166 or 168 is electrically coupled to PCB 136 via second contact 160. Power contact 154 of PCB 136 can be coupled to power source 122.

[0051] Such as about Figure 5 As described, indicator 178 may include a first indicator 180 and a second indicator 182. For example... Figure 6As shown, indicator 178 may include a first light source (e.g., one or more first LEDs 184) and a second light source (e.g., one or more second LEDs 186). The first and second LEDs 184 and 186 may be driven by logic controlled, for example, at PCB 136. In an illustrative manner, the first LED 184 may be illuminated when switch 166 or 168 (and in a more specific embodiment, when both switches 166 and 168) detects the presence of line 174 in retaining recesses 170 and 172. The second LED 186 may be illuminated when capacitive element 132 measures capacitance C at or above a threshold level indicating that collection container 116 is in a threshold-filled state requiring emptying.

[0052] Figure 7 It showed as in Figure 4 The lawnmower 100 seen in box A. Figure 4 As depicted, capacitor element 132 and PCB 136 are disposed within housing 188. Figure 7 In this process, the surface of the housing 188 was removed, exposing the back side of the substrate 138 on which the capacitor element 132 and the PCB 136 can be mounted.

[0053] refer to Figure 7 The housing 188 may include a structure 190 for coupling component 130 to the body 102 of the lawnmower 100. In some instances, structure 190 may be integral with the housing 188, for example... Figure 7 As depicted. In other instances, structure 190 can be detached from housing 188.

[0054] In one embodiment, the body 102 may define a rib 192. The rib 192 may extend from the body 102 into the internal volume 164. In some instances, the body 102 may include multiple parts connected together. For example, such as... Figure 7 As depicted, body 102 includes a first part 194 and a second part 196, each defining a complementary rib 192. When the first part 194 and the second part 196 of body 102 are coupled together, a gap 198 may be formed between the ribs 192 of the first part 194 and the second part 196. Structure 190 may be fitted within the gap 198 and held in place at least partially by the ribs 192.

[0055] In a specific embodiment, and by way of non-limiting example, structure 190 may include a body 200 defining a slot 202 for receiving one of the ribs 192. For mounting assembly 130, a housing 188 may be inserted into an internal volume 164 such that the slot 202 is aligned with the rib 192 of the second part 194. The housing 188 may be biased such that the rib 192 is pressed into the slot 202. This bias may be performed before mounting the first part 194 or by the first part 194 itself (e.g., by the rib 192 of the first part 194). In some instances, assembly 130 may be further secured to the body 102 by one or more fasteners (e.g., one or more threaded or non-threaded fasteners (not depicted)).

[0056] In some instances, at least a portion of component 130 (such as substrate 138, PCB 136, or capacitor element 132) may be potted and in place using, for example, an elastomeric compound (not depicted). The elastomeric compound may have a thickness of at least 0.01 inches, such as at least 0.02 inches, such as at least 0.03 inches, such as at least 0.04 inches, such as at least 0.05 inches, such as at least 0.075 inches, such as at least 0.1 inches. The elastomeric material can protect components of component 130 from moisture and debris. In embodiments, component 130 may achieve an IP55 rating.

[0057] Figure 8 An exemplary method 800 using a collection container associated with a lawnmower is depicted. More specifically, method 800 may describe emptying the collection container. Method 800 may include a step 802 of detecting the fill status of the collection container using a collection container fill indicator component. The collection container fill indicator component may include any one or more features as described with respect to component 130. For example, the collection container fill indicator component may include a capacitive element, a PCB, an indicator, and a switch. In an embodiment, step 802 of detecting the fill status may include continuously monitoring the fill status of the collection container. More specifically, step 802 of detecting the fill status may include continuously monitoring the fill status when the presence of the collection container at the lawnmower 100 is detected. In another embodiment, step 802 of detecting the fill status may include discontinuously monitoring the fill status of the collection container. For example, the collection container fill indicator component may check the fill status at a preset duration time interval (e.g., a 1-second interval).

[0058] Detecting the fill status of the collection container in step 802 may include measuring the capacitance of the volume associated with the collection container. As the capacitance changes, it is assumed that the fill status has changed. For example, as the capacitance increases, it is assumed that the fill status of the collection container increases. An increase in fill status corresponds to less empty space within the collection container. Once the fill status reaches a threshold fill level, the collection container is prepared to be emptied.

[0059] Method 800 may further include step 804 of decoupling the collection container from the lawnmower body when the indicator of the collection container fill indicator assembly indicates that the collection container is at a threshold fill level. For example, decoupling the collection container from the lawnmower body can be performed by disengaging line 174 from retaining recesses 170 and 172. Decoupling the collection container does not cause movement of the collection container fill indicator assembly relative to the lawnmower body. That is, because the collection container fill indicator assembly is coupled to the body itself, removing the collection container does not result in removing the collection container fill indicator assembly. This increases the operational life of the collection container fill indicator assembly and prevents accidental damage that could result from removing the collection container fill indicator assembly.

[0060] Method 800 may further include step 806 of emptying the collection container. Once empty, the collection container can be reattached to the lawnmower body, and mowing operations can resume. When line 174 is received within retaining recesses 170 and 172, a first indicator 180 can be illuminated to inform the operator that component 130 is open and the filling status of the collection container is being monitored.

[0061] In some instances, the feed container full indicator assembly can only be in the open state when the operator actively engages one or more actuators of the lawnmower. For example, the use of the feed container full indicator assembly may require the operator to actively press down the lawnmower's safety ring. In this respect, the feed container full indicator assembly can be automatically opened when the feed container is connected to the lawnmower body and the safety ring is pressed. In this way, the lawnmower's power source can be prevented from running out of power when the lawnmower is not in active use.

[0062] Other aspects of the invention are provided by one or more of the following embodiments:

[0063] Example 1. A collection container full indicator assembly, comprising: a capacitor element configured adjacent to a collection container arrangement of a lawnmower to detect the fullness of the collection container; and an interference shield disposed around a portion of the capacitor element to shield the capacitor element from interference.

[0064] Example 2. A collection container filling indicator assembly as described in any one or more embodiments, wherein the interference protection includes: a protective plate, wherein the capacitive element is disposed between the protective plate and a volume associated with the collection container; and an external loop coupled to the protective plate and extending around the periphery of the capacitive element.

[0065] Example 3. A collection container filling indicator assembly as described in any one or more embodiments, wherein the capacitive element includes rounded corners.

[0066] Example 4. A collection container fill indicator assembly as described in any one or more embodiments, wherein the collection container fill indicator assembly further includes a printed circuit board (PCB) in electronic communication with the capacitor element, and wherein the PCB and the capacitor element are part of a single structure.

[0067] Example 5. A collection container filling indicator assembly as described in any one or more embodiments, wherein the capacitive element is in electrical communication with a visual indicator that visually indicates when the capacitive element detects a capacitance level indicating that the collection container is at a threshold filling level.

[0068] Example 6. A lawnmower includes: a body having a cutting tool, wherein the body is coupled to a walking element such that the body is movable relative to a lower surface; a collection container coupled to the body to receive discharge from the body; and a collection container fill indicator assembly coupled to the body, wherein the collection container fill indicator assembly detects the fill status of the collection container and indicates when the collection container reaches a threshold fill level.

[0069] Example 7. A lawnmower as described in any one or more embodiments, wherein the body defines an internal volume, wherein the collection container fill indicator assembly is at least partially disposed within the internal volume, and wherein the collection container includes a bag removably coupled to the body.

[0070] Example 8. A lawnmower as described in any one or more embodiments, wherein the lawnmower includes an indicator assembly that indicates to the operator when the bag is present at the lawnmower and when the collection container reaches the threshold fill level.

[0071] Example 9. A lawnmower as described in any one or more embodiments, wherein the lawnmower further includes a handle extending from the body, wherein the indicator assembly is disposed on the body at the base of the handle.

[0072] Example 10. A lawnmower as described in any one or more embodiments, wherein the collection container fill indicator assembly is configured to use at least in part tilt detection information associated with the relative tilt angle of the lawnmower to determine when the collection container reaches the threshold fill level.

[0073] Example 11. A lawnmower as described in any one or more embodiments, wherein the lawnmower further includes a safety ring, and wherein the collection container fill indicator assembly is active only when the safety ring is actively engaged.

[0074] Example 12. A lawnmower as described in any one or more embodiments, wherein the collection container fill indicator assembly includes: a housing; and a capacitive element coupled to the housing; wherein the housing includes a coupling element that has an interference fit with a rib of the lawnmower body.

[0075] Example 13. A lawnmower as described in any one or more embodiments, wherein the collection container fill indicator assembly remains coupled to the body when the collection container is removed from the body.

[0076] Example 14. A lawnmower as described in any one or more embodiments, wherein the collection container fill indicator assembly includes: a capacitor element configured adjacent to the collection container to detect the fill status of the collection container; and an interference shield disposed around a portion of the capacitor element to shield the capacitor element from interference.

[0077] Example 15. A lawnmower as described in any one or more embodiments, wherein the interference protection includes: a protective plate, wherein the capacitive element is disposed between the protective plate and a detection volume associated with the collection container; and an external loop coupled to the protective plate and extending around the periphery of the capacitive element.

[0078] Example 16. A lawnmower as described in any one or more embodiments, wherein the capacitor element includes rounded corners.

[0079] Example 17. A lawnmower as described in any one or more embodiments, wherein the collection container fill indicator assembly further includes a printed circuit board (PCB) in electronic communication with the capacitive element, and wherein the PCB and the capacitive element are part of a single structure.

[0080] Example 18. A method for emptying a collection container associated with a lawnmower, the method comprising: detecting the fill status of the collection container using a collection container fill indicator assembly; decoupling the collection container from the body of the lawnmower when an indicator of the collection container fill indicator assembly indicates that the collection container is at a threshold fill level, wherein decoupling the collection container from the body does not cause the collection container fill indicator assembly to move relative to the body of the lawnmower; and emptying the collection container.

[0081] Example 19. The method as described in any one or more embodiments, wherein the collection container fill indicator assembly includes: a capacitor element configured adjacent to the collection container to detect the fill status of the collection container; and an interference shield disposed around a portion of the capacitor element to shield the capacitor element from interference.

[0082] Example 20. The method as described in any one or more embodiments, wherein the interference protection component comprises: a protective plate, wherein the capacitive element is disposed between the protective plate and a detection volume associated with the collection container; and an external loop coupled to the protective plate and extending around the periphery of the capacitive element.

[0083] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention (including the best mode) and also enables those skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any device or system and performing any of the combined methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims and may include other examples that would occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be included within the scope of the claims if they comprise structural elements that are not different from the literal language of the claims, or if they comprise equivalent structural elements that are not substantially different from the literal language of the claims.

Claims

1. A lawnmower, comprising: A body having a cutting tool, wherein the body is coupled to a traveling element, such that the body can move relative to a lower surface; A collection container coupled to the body to receive emissions from the body; and A collection container fill indicator assembly coupled to the body, wherein the collection container fill indicator assembly detects the fill status of the collection container and indicates when the collection container reaches a threshold fill level; the collection container fill indicator assembly is configured to determine when the collection container reaches the threshold fill level using at least in part tilt detection information associated with the relative tilt angle of the lawnmower; wherein the collection container fill indicator assembly includes: A capacitor element is configured adjacent to the collection container to detect the filling status of the collection container; An interference shielding component, used to protect the capacitor element from interference, includes: A protective plate, wherein the capacitive element is disposed between the protective plate and the detection volume associated with the collection container; and An external loop is coupled to the protective plate and extends around the periphery of the capacitor element; The collection container filling indicator component is only turned on when the lawnmower is activated.

2. The lawnmower as described in claim 1, wherein, The body defines an internal volume, wherein the collection container fill indicator assembly is at least partially disposed within the internal volume, and wherein the collection container includes a bag removably coupled to the body.

3. The lawnmower as described in claim 2, wherein, The lawnmower includes an indicator assembly that indicates to the operator when the bag is present at the lawnmower and when the collection container reaches the threshold fill level.

4. The lawnmower as described in claim 3, wherein, The lawnmower also includes a handle extending from the body, wherein the indicator assembly is disposed on the body at the base of the handle.

5. The lawnmower as described in claim 1, wherein, The lawnmower also includes a safety ring, wherein the collection container fill indicator assembly is active only when the safety ring is actively engaged.

6. The lawnmower as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The collection container fill indicator assembly includes: a housing; and a capacitive element coupled to the housing; wherein the housing includes a coupling element that has an interference fit with a rib of the lawnmower body.

7. The lawnmower as claimed in claim 1, wherein, When the collection container is removed from the body, the collection container fill indicator component remains coupled to the body.

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