Quick release blade assembly for power tools and method

Abstract

Quick release blade assemblies for power tools are provided. A lawn mower includes a base including an engagement interface, a retainer having a locking component, a blade disposed between the base and the retainer, and an actuatable member including an engagement member that is selectively shiftable relative to the engagement interface between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration when the actuatable member is translated in a direction parallel to the rotational axis, wherein the engagement member is configured to interface with the locking component to selectively couple the blade to the drive shaft when the engagement member is in the locked configuration.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to power tools with quick-release blade assemblies, and more particularly to lawnmowers with quick-release blade assemblies. Background Technology

[0002] Lawn mowers typically use one or more rotating blades with sharp edges to cut grass. When the blades become dull over time, it may be desirable to remove them from the lawn mower for sharpening or replacement.

[0003] Lawn mower blades are typically connected to the lawnmower via a drive shaft using threaded fasteners. For example, the drive shaft may include a threaded interface configured to receive a nut. After the blade is positioned along the drive shaft, the nut can be secured to the threaded interface to hold the blade to the drive shaft. To prevent the blade from loosening, the nut is tightened to a high torque load, and the operator can use a threaded lock. Furthermore, prolonged use may further tighten the threaded interface.

[0004] Therefore, removing the blade requires considerable effort and can potentially cause bodily injury to the operator. For example, when using a wrench to loosen a nut, the operator may slip and be cut by the blade or other sharp object.

[0005] Accordingly, improved blade release systems are desired in the art. In particular, quick-release blade systems that allow the operator to safely remove the blade would be advantageous. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Based on this disclosure, 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 art.

[0007] According to one embodiment, a lawnmower is provided. The lawnmower includes a mower deck; a power source coupled to the mower deck; a motor selectively powered by the power source; a drive shaft coupled to the motor and defining a rotation axis; and a quick-release blade assembly operatively coupled to the drive shaft, the quick-release blade assembly including: a base including an engagement interface; a retaining member having a locking component; a blade disposed between the base and the retaining member; and an actuable member including an engagement member that, when translated in a direction parallel to the rotation axis, is selectively displaced relative to the engagement interface between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration, wherein the engagement member is configured to engage with the locking component when in the locked configuration to selectively engage the blade to the drive shaft.

[0008] According to another embodiment, a quick-release blade assembly for a lawnmower is provided. The quick-release blade assembly includes: a base including an engagement interface; a retaining member having a locking component; a blade disposed between the base and the retaining member; and an actuating member including an engagement member that, when the actuating member is translated in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation, is selectively displaced relative to the engagement interface between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration, wherein the engagement member is configured to engage with the locking component when the engagement member is in the locked configuration to selectively engage the blade to the drive shaft.

[0009] According to another embodiment, a method for releasing or attaching a blade relative to a quick-release blade assembly of a lawnmower is provided, wherein the lawnmower includes a drive shaft coupled to a motor and configured to rotatably drive the blade. The method includes translating an actuating member including an engagement member in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation of the drive shaft, wherein translating the actuating member is performed such that the engagement member translates in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation, wherein the translation of the engagement member in a first direction engages the engagement member with a locking member of a retaining element of the quick-release blade assembly, and wherein the translation of the engagement member in a second direction disengages the engagement member from the locking member.

[0010] 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

[0011] Referring to the accompanying drawings, the full and authorized disclosure of the invention, including the best mode of making and using the systems and methods of the invention, is set forth in the specification for those skilled in the art, in which:

[0012] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an exemplary lawnmower according to an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0013] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of the quick-release blade assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0014] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of a quick-release blade assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the blade is coupled to a drive shaft;

[0015] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of a quick-release blade assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the blade is disconnected from the drive shaft;

[0016] Figure 5 Examples based on this disclosure Figure 3 A cross-sectional side view of the quick-release blade assembly as seen along line AA;

[0017] Figure 6 This is a top perspective view of a portion of a quick-release blade assembly according to an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0018] Figure 7 This is a bottom perspective view of a portion of a quick-release blade assembly according to an embodiment of this disclosure; and

[0019] Figure 8 This is a flowchart of a method for releasing or attaching a blade relative to a lawnmower's quick-release blade assembly, according to an embodiment of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0020] 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 alphanumeric designations are used to refer to features in the figures in the detailed description. The same or similar designations in the drawings and description have been used to refer to the same or similar portions of the invention.

[0021] 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,” and “the” include plural referents. Unless otherwise specified herein, the terms “connected,” “fixed,” “attached,” etc., refer both directly to a connection, fixation, or attachment, and indirectly to a connection, fixation, or attachment through one or more intermediate components or features. As used herein, the terms “comprises,” “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 an inclusive “or” rather than an 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).

[0022] For example, approximate terms such as “about,” “generally,” “approximately,” or “basically” include values ​​that are up to 10 percent larger or smaller than the stated value. When used in the context of angles or directions, such terms include values ​​that are up to 10 degrees larger or smaller than the stated angle or direction. For example, “generally vertical” includes directions that are up to 10 degrees vertical in any direction (e.g., clockwise or counterclockwise).

[0023] 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.

[0024] Typically, lawnmowers according to one or more embodiments described herein may include a quick-release blade system configured to quickly engage and disengage lawnmower blades from the lawnmower without risk of injury to the operator. The quick-release system may include an actuating member that the operator can selectively displace to lock and unlock the blades from the drive shaft. The actuating member includes multiple engaging members that displace radially in response to displacement of the actuating member in a direction associated with the axis of rotation of the drive shaft. This quick-release system allows the operator to quickly and safely replace the blades without compromising the structural integrity of the lawnmower and without the risk of accidental separation of the blades from the lawnmower during use.

[0025] Now refer to the attached diagram, Figure 1 An exemplary view of a lawnmower 2 according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure is shown. The lawnmower 2 generally includes a mower deck 4 and a plurality of wheels 6 coupled to the mower deck 4. The wheels 6 may be driven, for example by a motor of the lawnmower 2, or may be self-propelled, for example by being pushed by an operator.

[0026] The lawnmower 2 further includes a handle 8 extending from the mower deck 4. The handle 8 may include one or more user interfaces 10 that allow an operator to control one or more controllable elements of the lawnmower 2. For example, the user interfaces 10 may engage a motor (not shown) coupled to and driving a rotating blade. The handle 8 may be adjustable, allowing the operator to adjust its relative height to accommodate operators of different heights. The handle 8 may further be rotatable between multiple operating or storage configurations.

[0027] Power source 12 can be connected to lawnmower deck 4. In one embodiment, power source 12 may include an energy storage unit, such as a battery. In another embodiment, power source 12 may include a fuel engine. In yet another embodiment, power source 12 may include a plug or cable configured to connect to an external power source (e.g., a wall socket).

[0028] Power source 12 can be configured to drive a motor of lawnmower 2. As described in more detail below, the motor can be configured to rotatably drive a drive shaft defining a rotation axis. The quick-release blade assembly can be operatively coupled to the drive shaft and is configured to detachably connect the blades to the drive shaft.

[0029] The lawnmower 2 may include a bag 14 for ejecting cuts from the cutting area formed by the lawnmower deck 4. In an embodiment, the bag 14 may be positioned behind the lawnmower deck 4, below the handle 8.

[0030] Without departing from the scope of this disclosure, other types of lawnmowers are envisioned herein. For example, a lawnmower may include a ride-on lawnmower having a platform for the operator to stand on or a seat for the operator to sit on during use. In some instances, a lawnmower may include a single blade. In other instances, a lawnmower may include two or more blades, such as two blades, three blades, or four blades.

[0031] The lawnmower can be configured to detect when an operator is removing one or more blades of a plurality of blades and prevent the motor from rotatably driving the blades. As a non-limiting example, the lawnmower can detect the angle of the mower deck 4 and prevent rotation of the blades(s) when the mower deck 4 exceeds a predetermined angle. Alternatively, the lawnmower can have a cut-off switch or other interface that allows the operator to cut off the power supply to the motor.

[0032] Figure 2 An exploded view of a quick-release blade assembly 100 according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. The quick-release blade assembly 100 generally includes a base 102, a retaining member 104, an actuating member 106, and a blade 108. Components of the quick-release blade assembly 100 can selectively engage the blade 108 with a lawnmower 2 and selectively disengage the blade 108 from the lawnmower 2.

[0033] The blade 108 may include an elongated member 110 that defines one or more cutting surfaces 112. In embodiments, the one or more cutting surfaces 112 may be located at opposite ends of the elongated member 110 or adjacent to opposite ends. The cutting surfaces 112 may be rotationally symmetrical about the central axis 114 of the quick-release blade assembly 100. As the elongated member 110 rotates about the central axis 114, the cutting surfaces 112 may cut grass or other materials.

[0034] In one embodiment, the blade 108 may be generally along a plane and include one or more outward-curving portions 116, which can improve the cutting efficiency of the lawnmower 2 by influencing the material being cut. In the illustrated embodiment, the blade 108 includes two outward-curving portions 116 disposed at opposite ends of the elongated member 110, opposite to each other on the cutting surface 112.

[0035] The central opening 118 can extend through the blade 108 and receive a portion of the drive shaft 120, which is connected to the drive motor 122. Figure 3 The opening 118 can also be extended or connected to the drive motor. The opening 118 can also receive bolts that are connected to the drive shaft 120, which secure the base 102 to the drive shaft 120.

[0036] The blade 108 may further include one or more openings 124 spaced apart from the central axis 114 (i.e., displaced from the center of the blade 108). The openings 124 may include one, two, three, four, etc. In the illustrated embodiment, the openings 124 include two openings equidistant from the central axis 114. Each opening 124 is depicted as having a multi-circular shape, including a first circular opening 126 and a second circular opening 128 in open communication with the first circular opening 126. In another embodiment, each opening 124 may include a single circular opening. In yet another embodiment, the openings 124 may have a non-circular shape, including, for example, one or more arcuate portions or one or more linear portions. In some instances, the openings 124 may be positioned along the blade 108 such that the openings 124 are rotationally symmetrical about the central axis 114.

[0037] Each opening in opening 124 can define an effective centerline (in Figure 2 The center lines are depicted as dashed lines 130 and 132. In an embodiment, these two center lines 130 and 132 may correspond to the center of the respective opening 124. The center lines 130 and 132 may be spaced apart from each other by a distance D. As described in more detail below, the distance D may be the same or approximately the same for the components in each of the base 102, the retaining member 104, and the actuating member 106. These components may be joined together at the interface along the center lines 130 and 132.

[0038] The blade 108 may be disposed (e.g., clamped) between the base 102 and the retainer 104 such that a first surface 134 of the blade 108 is disposed adjacent to the base 102 and a second surface 136 of the blade 108 is disposed adjacent to the retainer 104. In some embodiments, the blade 108 may directly contact one or both of the base 102 or the retainer 104. In other embodiments, the blade 108 may be spaced apart from either or both of the base 102 or the retainer 104, for example, by a damper or other intermediate element.

[0039] The base 102 may include a body 138 against which the blade 108 rests when the blade 108 is secured by the quick-release blade assembly 100. In a particular embodiment, the base 102 may include a first surface 140 and a second surface 142. The second surface 142 may be configured opposite to the first surface 140 and may include one or more receiving regions 144 extending from the second surface. In some instances, the number of receiving regions 144 may correspond to the number of openings 124 in the blade 108. In the illustrated embodiment, the receiving regions 144 are defined by a protrusion extending in a direction parallel to the central axis 114. Each of the receiving regions 144 may include an opening 146 whose centerline is aligned with (e.g., configured to be coaxially aligned with) the centerlines 130 and 132 of the openings 124. That is, the centerlines of the openings 146 of the receiving regions 144 may be spaced apart from each other by a distance D.

[0040] Receiving regions 144 may each include an engagement interface 148. Each engagement interface 148 may include a groove extending into the receiving region 144. The groove may be in open communication with an opening 146. The groove may be angled (i.e., tilted) relative to the central axis 114. As an example, the groove may be angled at least 1 degree relative to the central axis 114, such as at least 2 degrees, such as at least 3 degrees, such as at least 4 degrees, such as at least 5 degrees, such as at least 10 degrees, such as at least 20 degrees, such as at least 30 degrees, such as at least 40 degrees, such as at least 50 degrees, such as at least 60 degrees. In a particular embodiment, the groove may be angled at approximately 45 degrees relative to the central axis 114. In an embodiment, the groove may each be along a most suitable plane that intersects on the side of the base 102 corresponding to the second surface 142. That is, the groove may be tilted inward from the second surface 142 toward the actuable member 106. The engagement interface 148 can act as a guide for the engagement members(s) of the actuable member 106, as described in more detail below.

[0041] One or more extensions (e.g., extension 150) may extend from the second surface 142 of the base 102 toward the actuable member 106. In the illustrated embodiment, extension 150 is disposed along the central axis 114 of the quick-release blade assembly 100. Extension 150 includes an aperture 152 through which the drive shaft 120 may extend at least partially.

[0042] The retaining member 104 may include a body 154 having one or more supports 156 extending from the body 154. The supports 156 may extend from the body 154 in a direction parallel or substantially parallel to the central axis 114. Similar to the receiving region 144, one or more supports 156 may be aligned (e.g., coaxial) with the center lines 130 and 132 of the openings 124, such that the supports 156 are spaced apart from each other by a distance D. The number of supports 156 may correspond to the number of openings 124 in the blade 108. In such a way, each of the supports 156 may extend through one of the openings 124 of the blade 108 and into the corresponding opening 146 of the receiving region 144 of the base 102.

[0043] At least one of the supports 156 may define a locking member 158 configured to engage with a corresponding engagement interface 148 of a receiving region 144 in the base 102. In the depicted embodiment, each locking member 158 includes a cutout in the surface of one of the supports 156. The cutout may include, for example, a notch, each notch forming a locking surface 160. In embodiments, the locking surface 160 may define a generally flat surface or a surface along a most suitable plane oriented perpendicular or generally perpendicular to the central axis 114. The locking member 158 may define a depth, as measured in a radial direction (perpendicular to the central axis 114), sufficient to receive an engagement member of the actuable member 106 such that the engagement member is disposed within the boundary of the support 156 to lock the support 156 relative to the base 102.

[0044] The body 154 of the retainer 104 may further include an opening 162 configured to receive the drive shaft 120. The opening 162 may be centrally located along the body 154.

[0045] The actuable member 106 may include a body 164 (e.g., a plate) that is selectively displaceable relative to the base 102 between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration. In an embodiment, the actuable member 106 may be displaced in a direction parallel to the central axis 114.

[0046] The body 164 of the actuable member 106 may define one or more openings 166. The openings 166 may be aligned (e.g., coaxial) with the centerlines 130 and 132 of the openings 124, such that the support 156 and the receiving area 144 may be received in these openings. Each opening 166 may have an engaging member. As a non-limiting example, each engaging member may include a pin 168. The pin 168 may have a generally cylindrical shape with its axis oriented perpendicular to the central axis 114. The pin 168 may rest along a shoulder 170 disposed in the opening 166. Each opening 166 may include a shoulder 170 disposed at each longitudinal end of the pin 168. The shoulder 170 may support the pin 168 and allow the pin 168 to be displaced in a direction perpendicular to the central axis 114 and perpendicular to the axis of the pin 168. In some instances, displacement of the pin 168 in the radial direction may cause rotation of the pin 168.

[0047] Pin 168 can be displaced radially between its innermost and outermost positions within opening 166. When pin 168 is in its first position corresponding to the radially inner side of opening 166, receiving area 144 and support post 156 can be inserted into opening 166. That is, pin 168 does not obstruct the insertion of receiving area 144 and support post 156 into opening 166. During insertion of receiving area 144 and support post 156 into opening 166, pin 168 can be guided by engagement interface 148, causing these pins to displace radially outward and into locking member 158. Once engaged with locking member 158, pin 168 can secure retainer 104 to base 102.

[0048] In one or more embodiments, when the lawnmower is not running, pin 168 may not exert a significant lateral force along engagement interface 148. As rotation of drive shaft 120 increases, the mass of pin 168 can increase the lateral force exerted on engagement interface 148, thereby pulling body 154 more tightly against blade 108. Pin 168 may not descend to its lowest point within engagement interface 148, thus allowing components of the quick-release blade assembly 100 to remain secure during operational use.

[0049] Pin 168 can be held in opening 166 by using pin cap 172. In some instances, pin cap 172 may define openings 174 configured to receive at least one of receiving area 144 and post 156. Pin cap 172 can be selectively secured to actuable member 106 by one or more fasteners 176 (e.g., threaded or unthreaded fasteners).

[0050] Figure 3 An embodiment of a quick-release blade assembly 100 with blade 108 attached is shown. Figure 4 An embodiment of a quick-release blade assembly 100 is shown, in which the blade and retainer 104 are separated, allowing the blade 108 to be replaced or serviced. To release the blade 108, the actuating member 106 translates in a direction parallel to the central axis 114. Specifically, the actuating member 106 can translate toward the motor 122 to release the blade 108. Once released, the retainer 104 and the blade 108 can be removed, while the base 102 and the actuating member 106 remain attached to the lawnmower.

[0051] Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of a quick-release blade assembly 100 according to an exemplary embodiment is shown, such as along... Figure 3 As seen in line AA in the diagram. As depicted, in one or more embodiments, the quick-release blade assembly 100 may further include a biasing element, such as a spring 178, configured to bias the actuating member 106 in a direction parallel to the central axis 114. In particular, the spring 178 may bias the actuating member 106 toward the retaining member 104. An operator can unlock the quick-release blade assembly 100 by displacing the actuating member 106 away from the retaining member 104, and thus against the spring force generated by the spring 178. As the actuating member 106 is displaced to the open configuration, the pin 168 is displaced in the radial direction to disengage from the locking member 158 and allow the support 156 to be released from the receiving area 144.

[0052] In some instances, the quick-release blade assembly 100 can be configured to generate an indication when the actuable member 106 is in an unlocked configuration. For example, the quick-release blade assembly 100 can be configured to generate a tactile indication, an auditory indication, a visual indication, or a combination thereof.

[0053] Figure 6 and Figure 7An orientation feature is shown, comprising a first orientation element 600 disposed on the retainer 104 and a second orientation element 602 disposed on the base 102. The first orientation element 600 may include, for example, a recess configured to receive the second orientation element 602. The second orientation element 602 may include, for example, a strut configured to extend into the first orientation element 600. According to other embodiments, the strut and the recess may be switched such that the first orientation element 600 includes the strut and the second orientation element 602 includes the recess. The first orientation element 600 and the second orientation element 602 may include irreversible elements that prevent improper installation of the retainer 104. For example, the first orientation element 600 and the second orientation element 602 may prevent the retainer 104 from being installed in an incorrect (e.g., reverse) orientation. If an operator attempts to use the retainer 104 in an incorrect orientation, the first orientation element 600 and the second orientation element 602 may become misaligned with each other, thus preventing proper installation and assembly of the retainer 104. In one embodiment, at least one of the first orientation element 600 or the second orientation element 602 may extend through the blade 108 to engage with the other of the first orientation element 600 or the second orientation element 602. The blade 108 may include an opening 604 for the first orientation element 600 or the second orientation element 602. In other embodiments, the orientation feature may be integral with the blade 108.

[0054] Figure 8 This is a flowchart of an exemplary method 800 for releasing or attaching a blade to a quick-release blade assembly relative to a lawnmower (such as the aforementioned lawnmower 2). Method 800 includes step 802: translating an actuated member, including an engagement member, in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation of the drive shaft. In a particular embodiment, step 802 can be performed by translating the actuated member toward the motor of the lawnmower. In some instances, the actuated member can be spring-biased to a locked configuration. By translating the actuated member toward the motor, an operator can selectively move the actuated member from a normally locked configuration (such as one maintained by a spring) to an unlocked configuration. More specifically, according to an embodiment, translating the actuated member toward the motor can cause the engagement member to translate in a radially inward direction, allowing the support of the retainer to translate freely past the engagement member. It should be understood that the arrangement described above can be reversed, such that in other embodiments, the engagement member moves to an unlocked configuration by translating in a radially outward direction.

[0055] The quick-release blade assembly according to the embodiments described herein allows the operator to quickly and easily attach and detach the blade from the lawnmower without the need for tools. Furthermore, the reduced force required to attach and detach the blade from the lawnmower lowers the risk of injury.

[0056] Other aspects of the invention are provided by one or more embodiments in the following examples:

[0057] Example 1. A lawnmower, comprising: a lawnmower deck; a power source coupled to the lawnmower deck; a motor selectively powered by the power source; a drive shaft coupled to the motor and defining a rotation axis; and a quick-release blade assembly operatively coupled to the drive shaft, the quick-release blade assembly comprising: a base including an engagement interface; a retaining member having a locking member; a blade disposed between the base and the retaining member; and an actuable member including an engagement member that, when the actuable member is translated in a direction parallel to the rotation axis, is selectively displaced relative to the engagement interface between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration, wherein the engagement member is configured to engage with the locking member when the engagement member is in the locked configuration to selectively engage the blade to the drive shaft.

[0058] Example 2. A lawnmower as described in any one or more of these examples, wherein the retaining member includes a post extending in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation, and wherein the locking member includes a cutout in the surface of the post.

[0059] Example 3. A lawnmower as described in any one or more of these examples, wherein the blade includes an opening configured to receive a support post of the retainer, and wherein the opening is displaced from a central position of the blade.

[0060] Example 4. A lawnmower as described in any one or more of these examples, wherein the base includes a support post configured to receive a locking member of the retainer, wherein the engagement interface includes a groove extending into the support post, and wherein the groove is along a plane that is angled relative to the axis of rotation.

[0061] Example 5. A lawnmower as described in any one or more of these examples, wherein the engaging member is disposed in the slot when in the locked configuration, and wherein the engaging member is disposed outside the slot when in the unlocked configuration.

[0062] Example 6. A lawnmower as described in any one or more of these examples, wherein the actuating member includes a body defining an opening, wherein the engaging member includes a pin at least partially disposed in the opening, and wherein the pin is displaceable between a locking configuration and an unlocking configuration in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation.

[0063] Example 7. A lawnmower as described in any one or more of these examples, wherein the pin is contained in the opening by a pin cap that is selectively connected to the body of the actuating member.

[0064] Example 8. A lawnmower as described in any one or more of these examples, wherein when the engaging member is in the unlocked configuration, the retaining member and the blade are removable from the lawnmower, and wherein when the engaging member is in the unlocked configuration, the base and the actuating member remain engaged with the lawnmower.

[0065] Example 9. A lawnmower as described in any one or more of these examples, wherein the actuating member is in a first position when the engaging member is in the locked configuration, wherein the actuating member is in a second position when the engaging member is in the unlocked configuration, and wherein the actuating member is configured to be closer to the motor when in the first position.

[0066] Example 10. A quick-release blade assembly operatively coupled to a drive shaft of a lawnmower, the drive shaft defining a rotation axis, the quick-release blade assembly comprising: a base including an engagement interface; a retainer having a locking member; a blade disposed between the base and the retainer; and an actuable member including an engagement member capable of selectively displacing relative to the engagement interface between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration when the actuable member is translated in a direction parallel to the rotation axis, wherein the engagement member is configured to engage with the locking member in the locked configuration to selectively engage the blade to the drive shaft.

[0067] Example 11. A quick-release blade assembly as described in any one or more of these examples, wherein the retaining member includes a post extending in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation, and wherein the locking member includes a cut in the surface of the post.

[0068] Example 12. A quick-release blade assembly as described in any one or more of these examples, wherein the base includes a support post configured to receive a locking member of the retainer, wherein the engagement interface includes a groove extending into the support post, and wherein the groove is along a plane that is angularly offset relative to the axis of rotation.

[0069] Example 13. A quick-release blade assembly as described in any one or more of these examples, wherein the engaging member is disposed in the slot when in the locking configuration, and wherein the engaging member is disposed outside the slot when in the unlocking configuration.

[0070] Example 14. A quick-release blade assembly as described in any one or more of these examples, wherein the actuating member includes a plate defining an opening, wherein the engaging member includes a pin at least partially disposed in the opening, and wherein the pin is displaceable between the locking configuration and the unlocking configuration in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation.

[0071] Example 15. A quick-release blade assembly as described in any one or more of these examples, wherein the actuating member is in a first position when the engaging member is in the locked configuration, wherein the actuating member is in a second position when the engaging member is in the unlocked configuration, and wherein the actuating member is configured to be closer to the motor when in the first position.

[0072] Example 16. A quick-release blade assembly as described in any one or more of these examples, wherein the retainer and blade are removable from the lawnmower when the engaging member is in the unlocked configuration, and wherein the base and actuating member remain engaged with the lawnmower when the engaging member is in the unlocked configuration.

[0073] Example 17. A quick-release blade assembly as described in any one or more of these examples, wherein the actuable member is biased in the direction along the axis of rotation and in the direction that holds the engagement member in the locking configuration.

[0074] Example 18. A method for releasing or attaching a blade relative to a quick-release blade assembly of a lawnmower, wherein the lawnmower includes a drive shaft coupled to a motor and configured to rotatably drive the blade, the method comprising: translating an actuating member including an engagement member in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation of the drive shaft, wherein translating the actuating member is performed such that the engagement member is translated in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation, wherein the translation of the engagement member in a first direction engages the engagement member with a locking member of a retaining member of the quick-release blade assembly, and wherein the translation of the engagement member in a second direction disengages the engagement member from the locking member.

[0075] Example 19. The method as described in any one or more of these examples, wherein the engaging member includes a pin, and wherein the pin is configured to move within a groove in the retaining member, the groove being angularly offset relative to the axis of rotation in the range of 30 to 60 degrees.

[0076] Example 20. The method as described in any one or more of these examples, wherein the method further includes removing the retainer and the blade from the quick-release blade assembly while the engagement member is in the unlocked configuration.

[0077] 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 quick-release blade assembly operatively coupled to a drive shaft of a lawnmower, the drive shaft defining a rotation axis, the quick-release blade assembly comprising: Base, which includes a mating interface; A retaining element having a locking component configured to engage with the mating interface; A blade is disposed between the base and the retaining member; as well as An actuable member includes a engaging member that, when the actuable member translates in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation, is selectively displaced relative to the engagement interface between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration, wherein, when the engaging member is in the locked configuration, the engaging member is disposed within the engagement interface, and when the engaging member is in the unlocked configuration, the engaging member is disposed outside the engagement interface; The engaging member is configured to engage with the locking member when the engaging member is in the locking configuration to selectively engage the blade with the drive shaft.

2. The quick-release blade assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The retaining member includes a support extending in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation, and wherein the locking member includes a cutout in the surface of the support.

3. The quick-release blade assembly as described in claim 2, wherein, The blade includes an opening configured to receive a support of the retainer, wherein the opening is displaced from the center position of the blade.

4. The quick-release blade assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The base includes a receiving area configured to receive a locking member of the retainer, wherein the engagement interface includes a groove extending into the receiving area, and wherein the groove is offset at an angle relative to the axis of rotation.

5. The quick-release blade assembly as claimed in claim 4, wherein, When the engaging member is in the locked configuration, the engaging member is disposed in the slot, and when the engaging member is in the unlocked configuration, the engaging member is disposed outside the slot.

6. The quick-release blade assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The actuable member includes a plate defining an opening, wherein the engaging member includes a pin at least partially disposed in the opening, and wherein the pin is displaceable between the locking configuration and the unlocking configuration in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation.

7. The quick-release blade assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein, When the engaging member is in the locked configuration, the actuating member is in a first position, wherein when the engaging member is in the unlocked configuration, the actuating member is in a second position, and wherein the actuating member is configured to be closer to the lawnmower motor when in the first position.

8. The quick-release blade assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein, When the engaging member is in the unlocked configuration, the retaining member and the blade can be removed from the lawnmower, and wherein, when the engaging member is in the unlocked configuration, the base and the actuating member remain engaged with the lawnmower.

9. The quick-release blade assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The actuable member is biased in the direction along the axis of rotation, in the direction that holds the engagement member in the locking configuration.

10. The quick-release blade assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The quick-release blade assembly is configured to release the blade without the use of tools.

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