Feed control of the lawn mowing line

Abstract

A lawnmower head (1) includes: a rotatable housing (12) connectable to a mowing line spool (13) rotatably supported by said housing (12); and a locking mechanism (14) for using a locking force (F) L The mower head (13) is locked to the housing (12). The locking mechanism (14) is arranged to move from the locked position to the unlocked position when the rotational speed of the mower head (1) increases to exceed an operating speed. This increased rotational speed causes the release force (F) to... R ) greater than locking force (F) L In the unlocked position, the locking mechanism (14) releases the mowing line spool (13) from the housing (12), allowing the mowing line spool (13) to move and the mowing line (3) wound around the spool (13) to be released and subjected to centrifugal force (F) caused by the rotation of the mower head (1). C () is pulled out, thus allowing the grass cutting line (3) to be fed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to a lawnmower. Specifically, the various embodiments described in this disclosure relate to a method for controlling the feed of the mowing line in a lawnmower, a mowing head, and a lawnmower. Background Technology

[0002] A lawnmower is a tool that uses a rotating cord or multiple cords to cut grass and ground cover. This type of lawnmower is also called a rope mower, line mower, or mowing line. When the cord touches grass or other growing material, the grass is cut by the cord. This physical interaction between the grass and the mowing line wears down the mowing line, and it typically shortens over time. To provide a uniform cutting operation, more mowing lines need to be fed.

[0003] Traditionally, the push button is located on the underside of the mower head. When the operator wants to feed more mowing line, they slam the mower head to the ground, pressing the push button, which feeds the mowing line. However, because the push button protrudes from the mower head, this arrangement increases the cutting height of the mower head and is therefore unsuitable for close and precise trimming. Furthermore, the impact action can cause unwanted circular marks to form in the grass. Therefore, other methods of initiating mowing line feed have been developed, such as push button, manual actuation, or fully automatic feed. When the push button is pressed to feed, the mowing line is fed by pushing the button instead of slamming the mower head to the ground. These mowers typically operate by unidirectional rotation, meaning the mower head rotates in one direction. For operating bidirectional rotating mowers, these mower heads have been further developed. However, these mower heads are more complex and include many parts. Since the mower head is a wear-and-tear component, it is desirable to make it as simple and robust as possible.

[0004] Therefore, an improved feed line for mowing is needed, which can also be used in bidirectional rotary mowers. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of the foregoing, the general objective throughout the aspects and embodiments described in this disclosure is to provide a solution with an improved feed mowing line that is robust, comprises few components, and can be used in bidirectional rotary mowers.

[0006] This general objective has been achieved by the appended independent claims. Advantageous embodiments are defined in the appended dependent claims.

[0007] According to a first aspect, a lawnmower head is provided. The lawnmower head includes: a rotatable housing, a mowing line spool connectable to and rotatably supported by the housing, and a locking mechanism for locking the mowing line spool to the housing using a locking force. The locking mechanism is arranged to move from a locked position to an unlocked position when the rotational speed of the lawnmower head increases to exceed an operating speed. This increased rotational speed results in a release force greater than the locking force. In the unlocked position, the locking mechanism releases the mowing line spool from the housing, allowing the mowing line spool to rotate relative to the housing, and the mowing line wound around the mowing line spool is released and pulled out by the centrifugal force caused by the rotation of the lawnmower head, thereby allowing the feeding of the mowing line.

[0008] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism is a spring-loaded locking mechanism. The increased speed shifts the center of gravity of the locking mechanism, thereby making the release force greater than the locking force of a spring-loaded locking mechanism.

[0009] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism is arranged to move from the unlocked position back to the locked position when the rotational speed of the lawnmower head decreases to below the operating speed, wherein the release force is reduced to less than the locking force.

[0010] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism includes a pivot locking latch and the mower reel includes at least one stop. The pivot locking latch is arranged to engage with one of the at least one stop in the locked position. According to one embodiment, the mower reel may further include at least one release stop, wherein the pivot locking latch may be arranged to engage with one of the at least one release stop when the locking mechanism is moved to the unlocked position.

[0011] In some embodiments, the mower head includes a button disposed on the housing, wherein the button is operably connected to a locking mechanism to move the locking mechanism to an unlocked position when the button is pressed. Thus, a user can manually feed the mowing line by pressing the button and pulling the mowing line out of the mower head.

[0012] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism allows the mowing line spool to be manually rotated relative to the housing in one rotational direction. Therefore, the mower head is configured to allow the mowing line to be loaded into the mower head without having to remove the mower head.

[0013] In some embodiments, the mower head includes grips disposed on the housing. This facilitates the process of loading the mowing line into the mower head.

[0014] In some embodiments, the lawnmower head includes a recess located on the underside of the lawnmower head, and a gripper is disposed within the recess. This provides a user-friendly lawnmower head while reducing the likelihood of the gripper hitting an object during operation. Furthermore, the gripper may not increase the cutting height of the lawnmower head.

[0015] According to a second aspect, a lawnmower is provided that includes a mower head according to the first aspect. The lawnmower also includes a drive mechanism for rotating the mower head. The lawnmower is arranged to rotate the mowing line spool relative to the housing by increasing the rotational speed of the mower head to exceed the operating speed.

[0016] In some embodiments, the rotational speed of the lawnmower head increases in response to the start-up action.

[0017] In some embodiments, the lawnmower is arranged to move the locking mechanism from an unlocked position to a locked position, in which the mowing line spool is locked to the housing, by reducing the rotational speed of the mower head to below the operating speed. The lawnmower may be arranged to reduce the rotational speed of the mower head by alternately decreasing and increasing the rotational speed of the mower head until the rotational speed of the mower head is below the operating speed.

[0018] In some embodiments, the lawnmower is arranged to reduce the rotational speed of the mower head once the maximum rotational speed has been reached. In other embodiments, the lawnmower is arranged to reduce the rotational speed of the mower head after a predetermined time has elapsed since the rotational speed was increased.

[0019] In some embodiments, the lawnmower is an electric lawnmower and the drive unit includes a power source and an electric motor. In other embodiments, the lawnmower is an internal combustion engine-powered lawnmower and the drive unit includes a fuel tank, an engine, and may also include a gear assembly.

[0020] According to a third aspect, a method is provided for controlling the feed of mowing line in a lawnmower including a mower head. The mower head includes: a rotatable housing; a mowing line spool rotatably supported by the housing; and a locking mechanism for locking the mowing line spool. The method includes increasing the rotational speed of the mower head to exceed an operating speed, at which the locking mechanism moves from a locked position to an unlocked position, and the mowing line wound around the mowing line spool is released and pulled out by centrifugal force caused by the rotation of the mower head, thereby allowing the mowing line to be fed.

[0021] In some embodiments, the rotational speed increases in response to the start-up action.

[0022] In some embodiments, the method further includes reducing the rotational speed of the mower head to below the operating speed, thereby moving the locking mechanism from an unlocked position to a locked position. According to one embodiment, the method may include reducing the rotational speed of the mower head by alternately decreasing and increasing the rotational speed until the rotational speed of the mower head is below the operating speed.

[0023] In some embodiments, the method further includes reducing the rotational speed of the lawnmower head once the maximum rotational speed has been reached. In other embodiments, the method further includes reducing the rotational speed of the lawnmower head after a predetermined time has elapsed since the rotational speed was increased.

[0024] Some of the disadvantages discussed above in the embodiments eliminate or at least reduce the disadvantages discussed in the foregoing of this disclosure. The embodiments presented herein provide a robust and simple mower head with a small number of parts that provides an improved mowing line feed method that can also be used in bidirectional rotary mowers.

[0025] Further features and advantages of the disclosed embodiments will become apparent from the following detailed disclosure, the appended dependent claims, and the accompanying drawings. Generally, all terms used in the claims should be interpreted according to their ordinary meaning in the art, unless otherwise expressly defined herein. All references to “an / a / the element, device, component, apparatus, step, etc.” should be interpreted as referring to at least one instance of the element, device, component, apparatus, step, etc., unless otherwise expressly stated. Unless expressly stated otherwise, the steps of any method disclosed herein need not be performed in the exact order disclosed. Attached Figure Description

[0026] These and other aspects, features, and advantages will become apparent and will be illustrated in the following description of various embodiments, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0027] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a lawnmower is shown;

[0028] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a lawnmower head is shown;

[0029] Figure 3 A schematic illustration of a lawnmower head with a locking mechanism according to one embodiment is shown;

[0030] Figure 4a A schematic illustration of a lawnmower reel with a locking mechanism according to one embodiment is shown;

[0031] Figure 4b It shows that according to Figure 4a A schematic diagram of the mowing line reel and locking mechanism when mounted in the housing of the mower head;

[0032] Figure 5a A schematic illustration shows the rotation of the reel relative to the locking mechanism during continuous feeding, according to one embodiment;

[0033] Figure 5b A timing diagram of a continuous feed process according to one embodiment is shown;

[0034] Figure 6 A flowchart of a method according to one embodiment is shown;

[0035] Figure 7 A schematic illustration of a lawnmower head according to some other embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0036] Figure 8a It shows that according to Figure 7 A schematic illustration of a portion of the housing of the lawnmower head in the illustrated embodiment;

[0037] Figure 8b It shows Figure 8a A schematic illustration of a portion of the housing shown, in which a button has been pressed in the direction of the rotation axis of the lawnmower head;

[0038] Figure 9 It is shown according to the reference Figures 7 to 8b A schematic illustration of a mower head with a locking mechanism in an embodiment of the invention.

[0039] Figure 10 It shows that according to Figure 9 A schematic illustration of a mowing line reel with a locking mechanism in the embodiment shown, wherein the mowing line reel is shown as viewed in a direction consistent with the axis of rotation of the mower head;

[0040] Figure 11 It is shown according to the reference Figures 7 to 10 A perspective view of the lower side of the lawnmower head in the illustrated embodiment; and

[0041] Figure 12 It shows Figure 11 The cross-section of the lawnmower head is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0042] The disclosed embodiments will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which certain embodiments of the invention are illustrated. However, the invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided by way of example so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. The same numerals always refer to the same elements.

[0043] In one aspect, this disclosure relates to lawnmower 10. Figure 1 A schematic illustration of this lawnmower 10 is shown. Figure 1 The lawnmower 10 is a corded lawnmower that can be used to cut or trim grass and ground cover in, for example, gardens, parks, and other vegetated areas. The lawnmower 10 includes a mower head 1 according to another aspect of this disclosure. The mower head 1 is a rotary cutting device and may be provided with mowing lines 3 extending radially from the mower head 1. The mowing lines 3 may extend in any number of directions, but are preferably arranged in a balanced manner. Typically, two mowing lines 3 are used and arranged to extend in opposite directions to each other.

[0044] Figure 2 A schematic illustration of a lawnmower head 1 according to this disclosure is shown. Figure 2 As shown, the lawnmower head 1 includes a housing 12. The housing 12 is connectable to a mowing line spool 13 rotatably supported by the housing 12. Therefore, when the lawnmower 10 is in use, the housing 12 of the lawnmower head 1 is connected to the mowing line spool 13. When the lawnmower 10 is not in use, the mowing line spool 13 may not need to be connected to the housing 12, even if it could. The mowing line spool 13 may be connected to the housing 12, for example, via a spring such as a torsion spring. The mowing line spool 13 in… Figure 2 This is because the lawnmower spool 13 can be connected to the housing 12 inside or within the housing 12, such as... Figure 4b The most clearly visible part is the mowing line 3, which extends through the hole or opening 11 in the mower head housing 12. The mowing line 3 is wound around the mowing line reel 13, as shown in the image. Figure 4a The clearest view.

[0045] The lawnmower head 1 also includes a locking mechanism 14 for locking the mowing line spool 13 to the housing 12. The mowing line spool 13 is held in place by the locking mechanism 14 with a force F. H Locked to outer casing 12. Figure 3 The retaining force F of the outer casing 12 is shown. H And locking mechanism 14. When the mower spool 13 is locked to the housing 12, the mower spool 13 does not rotate relative to the housing 12. In the locked position, the mower spool 13 rotates together with the housing 12.

[0046] Figure 4a The locking mechanism 14 associated with the lawnmower spool 13 and the applied retaining force F are shown. HA perspective view. The locking mechanism 14 is arranged to move from the locked position to the unlocked position when the rotational speed of the lawnmower head 1 increases to exceed the operating speed. The operating speed is the speed at which the lawnmower head 1 is normally operated, i.e., the speed at which the lawnmower head 1 can be used to cut grass or ground cover. The operating speed can include a speed range, and in these embodiments, the rotational speed is increased to above the maximum operating speed, for example, 1.1-1.3 times the maximum operating speed. For example, the maximum operating speed can be approximately 5500 revolutions per minute (rpm), while the increased speed can be in the range of approximately 6500-7000 rpm. However, it is understood that the speed range can be lower or higher than the example range, as long as the rotational speed at which the locking mechanism 14 moves from the locked position to the unlocked position is significantly higher than and therefore different from the operating speed.

[0047] Increasing the rotational speed increases the release force F R Greater than the locking force F L Therefore, as the rotational speed increases, it exceeds the locking force F. L Release force F R The locking mechanism 14 is then forced to move from the locked position to the unlocked position. In the unlocked position, the locking mechanism 14 releases the mowing line spool 13 from the housing 12, allowing the mowing line spool 13 to rotate relative to the housing 12. The mowing line 3 wound around the mowing line spool 13 is then released and subjected to centrifugal force F caused by the rotation of the mower head 1. C And is pulled out. This allows the mowing line 3 to be fed. The feed length of the mowing line 3 corresponds to the relative rotation between the housing 12 and the mowing line reel 13. Therefore, when the rotational speed of the mower head 1 increases to above this operating speed, the mowing line 3 is fed.

[0048] By configuring the mower head 1 to feed the mowing line 3 by increasing its rotational speed to exceed the operating speed, a separation is established between the operating speed range and the line feed speed range. This ensures that the mowing line 3 is not accidentally fed. The mowing line 3 is only fed when the rotational speed is increased, which occurs when the motor increases the speed above the operating speed. Therefore, accidental feeding is eliminated or at least reduced. Furthermore, the provided structure of the mowing line feed mechanism allows it to be used with a bidirectional rotary mower.

[0049] According to one embodiment, also as Figure 3 , Figure 4a and Figure 4b As shown, the locking mechanism 14 can be a spring-loaded locking mechanism 14. Increasing the speed can shift the center of gravity of the locking mechanism 14, thereby increasing the release force F. R The locking force F of the spring-loaded locking mechanism 14 is greater than the locking force F. L When the force F is released RBecome greater than the locking force F L At that time, the locking mechanism 14 moves from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0050] like Figure 4a and Figure 4b As shown, the spring-loaded locking mechanism 14 according to one embodiment includes a spring 19 and a base plate 15. According to... Figure 4a and Figure 4b In the illustrated embodiment, the spring type is a helical spring. According to another embodiment, the spring-loaded locking mechanism 14 may include other types of springs, such as leaf springs. The base plate 15 is provided with a slotted through-hole. Due to the presence of the slotted hole, as the rotational speed increases, the base plate 15 of the spring-loaded mechanism will move with the shift of the center of gravity. The movement of the base plate 15 will increase the release force F. R And as mentioned earlier, when the force F is released... R Greater than the locking force F L At this time, the mowing line spool 13 will be released from the housing 12. When the mowing line spool 13 is released, the mowing line 3 is allowed to feed. The mowing line feeding mechanism is implemented with very few parts by providing a spring-loaded locking mechanism 14. This makes the mower head 1 robust and durable, and also makes it suitable for bi-directional rotary mowers.

[0051] In some embodiments, such as Figure 5a As shown, the locking mechanism 14 may include a pivot locking latch 18 and the lawnmower spool 13 may include at least one stop 16. The pivot locking latch 18 may be arranged to engage with one of the at least one stop 16, 16' in the locked position. Thus, when the locking mechanism 14 is in the locked positions A, A', the pivot latch 18 may abut against one of the at least one stop 16, 16'.

[0052] According to some embodiments, the lawnmower spool 13 may also include at least one release stop 17. A pivot locking latch 18 may be arranged to engage one of the at least one release stop 17 when the locking mechanism 14 moves to the unlocked position. Thus, when the locking mechanism 14 moves from the locked position to the unlocked position, the pivot locking latch 18 is forced from its position abutting one of the stops 16, 16' to engage with one of the at least one release stop 17.

[0053] According to these embodiments, the mowing line spool 13 can rotate relative to the housing 12 to a degree defined by the distance B between the stop 16 and the release stop 17. Therefore, the arrangement of the stop 16 and the release stop 17, and the distance between them, can control the amount of rotation of the mowing line spool 13 relative to the housing 12. The amount of rotation B of the mowing line spool 13 relative to the housing 12 represents the amount of mowing line 3 fed each time the locking mechanism 14 rotates between the locked and unlocked positions. Figure 5a A mowing line reel 13 with six stops 16, 16' and six release stops 17 is shown. However, it will be appreciated that the mowing line reel 13 can have more or fewer stops 16, 16', 17. More stops result in a shorter feed mowing line 3. Fewer stops result in a longer feed mowing line 3. However, having fewer stops 16, 16', 17 may make the user feel a more abrupt stop in the mowing line reel 13, and a trade-off can be made between the feed length of the mowing line 3 and the smoothness of operation in the design.

[0054] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism 14 may be arranged to move from the unlocked position back to the locked position A' when the rotational speed of the lawnmower head 1 decreases below the operating speed. According to some embodiments, the movement back to the locked position begins with the locking latch 18 abutting against the release stop 17, and the release force F is applied when the rotational speed of the lawnmower head 1 decreases below the operating speed. R Reduce to less than the locking force F L And the locking latch 18 returns to the stop 16' after it has been engaged, Figure 5a The location marked A'. This will be described in more detail below regarding lawnmower 10.

[0055] As previously stated, in one aspect, this disclosure relates to a lawnmower 10, which in... Figure 1 As shown in the diagram. The lawnmower 10 includes a lawnmower head 1 according to any of the foregoing embodiments. The lawnmower 10 also includes drive devices 2, 4 for driving the lawnmower head 1 to rotate. The lawnmower 10 is arranged to rotate the mowing line spool 13 relative to the housing 12 of the lawnmower head 1 by increasing the rotational speed of the lawnmower head 1 to above an operating speed. This will cause the mowing line 3 to be fed.

[0056] In one exemplary embodiment, the lawnmower 10 is an electric lawnmower. The drive unit may then include a power source 4, such as a battery or grid connector, for supplying power to an electric motor 2 arranged to rotate the lawnmower head 1. In another exemplary embodiment, the lawnmower 10 is an internal combustion engine-powered lawnmower. The drive unit may then include a fuel tank for supplying fuel to an engine 4 for driving the lawnmower head 1 via a gear assembly 2. While the description herein will focus on electric lawnmowers, it should be noted that the teachings herein can also be applied to internal combustion engine-powered lawnmowers. For example, an increase in operating speed (as will be discussed in more detail below) can be achieved by increasing the rotational speed of the electric motor through an increase in the supply of electricity and by increasing fuel injection and / or by increasing the opening of the engine throttle.

[0057] The lawnmower 10 may also include at least one handle 5 and a lever 6, on which the power supply 4 and the mower head 1 may be disposed. The lawnmower 10 may also include a mowing guard or baffle 7. A user controller, including one or more buttons, may be disposed near (or on) at least one handle 5, such as a speed control, a start button, and / or a button for initiating automatic mowing line feed. The buttons may be located on a control panel 8. The controller may include a manual switch (pressed by the operator's palm when the grip 5 is held), a throttle control switch 28 (actuated by the operator's fingers), and other controllers, such as those for changing power levels, changing rotation direction, etc. (to name just a few). The control panel 8 may also include visual indicators, such as LEDs (light-emitting diodes), for indicating the status of the lawnmower 10.

[0058] The lawnmower 10 can be a bidirectional lawnmower, wherein the lawnmower can change the rotation direction of the drive unit between clockwise and counterclockwise rotation to rotate the cutting device. Alternatively, the lawnmower 10 can be a unidirectional lawnmower.

[0059] Now refer to Figure 5a and Figure 5b as well as Figure 6 To describe the method and lawnmower 10 according to this disclosure. Figure 5b The diagram shows the time taken for the motor 2 to rotate one revolution while controlling the feed of the mowing line 3. Figure 6 It shows the method for execution Figure 5b The corresponding flowchart of the control method 600.

[0060] like Figure 5b As shown, the lawnmower 10 according to this disclosure is configured to first increase the angular velocity of the motor 2 to rotate at an operating speed. The operating speed is the rotational speed at which the mower head 1 of the lawnmower 10 can be operated for cutting or trimming grass and ground cover plants. According to some embodiments, the operating speed may include a speed range. When the operating speed includes a speed range, it may be a maximum operating speed corresponding to the operating speed. According to one embodiment, the maximum operating speed may be 5500 rpm, and this maximum operating speed is within... Figure 5b It is marked with a dashed line.

[0061] Once the lawnmower 10 is operating at the operating speed, the motor 2 can further increase the rotational speed of the lawnmower head 1. Corresponding to step 620 of method 600, the rotational speed of the lawnmower head 1 is increased beyond the operating speed. This can occur, for example, in response to receiving an actuation action, corresponding to step 610 of method 600, i.e., receiving an actuation action at 610, wherein the rotational speed increases in response to the actuation action. For example, the actuation action can be triggered by an operator issuing a command to feed the mowing line 3. This command can be given via a button, switch, or lever on the control panel 8. As the rotational speed increases, the locking mechanism 14 moves from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0062] In an exemplary embodiment, when the locking mechanism 14 moves away from the locked position, the locking latch 18 disengages from the stop 16 ( Figure 5a Position A) Move radially outward to the unlock position ( Figure 5a Area B). When the locking mechanism 14 is in the unlocked position, the mowing line spool 13 is released, and the mowing line 3 wound around the mowing line spool 13 is subjected to centrifugal force F generated by the rotation of the mower head 1. C The mowing line 3 is pulled out, thus allowing the feed of the mowing line 3, corresponding to step 630 of method 600. The feed of the mowing line 3 occurs when the mowing line spool 13 rotates relative to the housing 12, which occurs when the locking latch 18 is not in contact with the stops 16, 16' or the release stop 17, thereby preventing the locking mechanism 14 from locking the mowing line spool 13 to the housing 12.

[0063] In some embodiments, the lawnmower 10 may be configured to move the locking mechanism 14 from the unlocked position to the locked position by reducing the rotational speed of the lawnmower head 1 to below the operating speed, corresponding to step 640 of method 600. The reduction in speed corresponds to... Figure 5b Region C in the text. For example... Figure 5b As shown, the rotational speed is reduced below the line indicating an operating speed of 5500 rpm. Furthermore, when the operating speed is within a speed range, the rotational speed is reduced to below the operating speed or at least within the lower range of the operating speed. By actively braking to reduce the rotational speed below the operating speed, it is ensured that the locking mechanism 14 moves from the unlocked position back to the subsequent locked position A', in which the locking latch 18 abuts against the subsequent stop 16', and the locking mechanism 14 is not stuck in the unlocked position.

[0064] In some embodiments, the lawnmower 10 may be configured to move the locking mechanism 14 from the release stop position D to the locking positions A, A' by reducing the rotational speed of the lawnmower head 1 to below the operating speed. In the release stop position, the locking latch 18 abuts against the release stop 17, and in the locking position, the locking latch 18 abuts against the stops 16, 16', corresponding to step 640 of method 600. The reduction in speed corresponds to... Figure 5b Region C in the text. For example... Figure 5b As shown, the rotational speed is reduced to below the indicated operating speed of 5500 rpm. When the rotational speed is reduced, the locking latch moves radially inward from the release stop position D. Furthermore, when the operating speed is within a speed range, the rotational speed is reduced to below the operating speed or at least within the lower range of the operating speed. By actively braking to reduce the rotational speed below the operating speed, it is ensured that the locking latch 18 moves from the release stop position D back to the subsequent locked position A', thereby feeding a controlled length of mowing line corresponding to the distance C between the release stop position D and the stop position A'. By combining this method with a mower head having internal and external stop positions, very precise control of the length of the fed mowing line can be achieved during each actuation.

[0065] Step 640, which reduces the rotational speed, can be performed in different ways. According to one embodiment, the lawnmower 10 can be configured to continuously reduce its rotational speed below the operating speed, for example, until the rotational speed reaches a predetermined value or persists for a certain period of time. Alternatively, the lawnmower 10 can be configured to reduce its rotational speed by alternately decreasing and increasing the rotational speed of the mower head 1 until the rotational speed of the mower head 10 is below the operating speed. By alternately decreasing and increasing the rotational speed, the mower head 1 can move or rock due to the change in rotational speed, thereby making it easier for the locking mechanism 14 to move from the release stop and / or unlocked position to the inner locked position A'. Regardless of the method used to reduce the rotational speed, the rotational speed can be reduced after a predetermined time following an increase in rotational speed, or it can be reduced once the rotational speed reaches its maximum possible rotational speed, i.e., the maximum possible rotational speed for the lawnmower 10. For example, in one embodiment, after the rotational speed begins to increase, the reduction in rotational speed lasts, for example, 0.1-0.5 seconds. Alternatively, once the rotational speed reaches the maximum permissible rotational speed, the rotational speed is reduced, which can be, for example, a value of 6000-7000 rpm. For example, for lawnmowers powered by electric motors, the international standard IEC 62841-1SCF limits the maximum permissible rotational speed to 130% of the maximum operating rotational speed.

[0066] After the rotational speed is reduced below the operating speed, the lawnmower 10 can be configured to increase the rotational speed again until the operating speed is reached, allowing the operator to continue using the lawnmower 10 to cut grass or ground cover, i.e., step 650 of method 600. The entire process of increasing the rotational speed above the operating speed, reducing the rotational speed below the operating speed, and then increasing the rotational speed again above the operating speed (i.e.,...) Figure 5b The sequence shown in the time diagram may take approximately 0.3–1.0 seconds. Therefore, the solution provided for controlling the feed of the mowing line is both smooth and fast.

[0067] Furthermore, using the provided lawnmower 10 and the provided method 600, the feed of the mowing line 3 in the lawnmower head 1 can be controlled with a simple yet robust construction utilizing a small number of parts. The provided lawnmower 10, lawnmower head 1, and method 600 can also be used for bidirectional rotation. Moreover, this disclosure provides a solution in which accidental line feed is avoided because the mowing line 3 is fed at a speed higher than the operating speed. The lawnmower 10 will not accidentally increase its rotational speed beyond the operating speed; this only occurs when there is an intention to increase the speed. Therefore, this disclosure provides a safe solution for automatic remote feeding of the mowing line 3.

[0068] Figure 7 A schematic illustration of a lawnmower head 1 according to some other embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 7 The lawnmower head 1 of the embodiment shown includes a reference Figures 1 to 6 The lawnmower head 1 described below shares the same features, functions, and advantages; some differences between them are explained below. Additionally, refer to... Figure 5a and Figure 5b as well as Figure 6 Method 600 of the explanation can be used according to Figure 7 The lawnmower head 1 in the illustrated embodiment is used to perform the operation.

[0069] according to Figure 7 The lawnmower head 1 of the illustrated embodiment allows manual feeding of the mowing line 3 by pressing a button 32 arranged on the housing 12 of the lawnmower head 1, as described below. Furthermore, as described below, according to Figure 7 The lawnmower head 1 of the illustrated embodiment allows the mowing line 3 to be quickly and easily loaded into the lawnmower head 1 without disassembling the lawnmower head 1.

[0070] Figure 8a It shows that according to Figure 7 A schematic illustration of a portion of the housing 12 of the lawnmower head 1 in the illustrated embodiment. Figure 8a In the image, the spring-loaded locking mechanism 14 of the lawnmower head 1 can be seen. (See reference...) Figure 1 To the diagram Figure 5aIn the illustrated embodiments, the spring-loaded locking mechanism 14 according to these embodiments includes a spring 19, a base plate 15, and a locking latch 18. Figure 8a In the illustrated embodiment, spring 19 is a leaf spring. According to other embodiments, based on... Figure 8b The lawnmower head 1 of the illustrated embodiment may include a helical spring, as shown in the reference. Figures 1 to 5a An embodiment of the lawnmower head 1 is explained.

[0071] In addition, according to Figure 8a In the illustrated embodiment, a gap exists in the connection between the locking latch 18 and the base plate 15, thereby allowing the locking latch 18 to move radially toward the rotation axis ax of the mower head 1 without moving the base plate 15. The mower head 1 is configured to rotate about the rotation axis ax during operation of the mower head 1. Furthermore, according to Figure 7 and Figure 8a In the illustrated embodiment, button 32 is operably connected to locking latch 18. Figure 8a In the diagram, the spring-loaded locking mechanism 14 is shown in the state where the button 32 is not pressed.

[0072] Figure 8b It shows Figure 8a The diagram shows a partial view of the housing 12, where button 32 has been pressed in the direction of the rotation axis ax of the lawnmower head 1. Figure 8b As can be seen, the result is that the locking latch 18 has moved in the direction of the rotation axis ax. Due to the gap between the locking latch 18 and the base plate 15, the user does not need to overcome the locking force F exerted by the spring 19 on the locking mechanism 14 when pressing the button 32. L Therefore, since the locking latch 18 subsequently moves to... Figure 8b As shown in the unlock position, the locking mechanism 14 moves from the locked position to the unlock position when button 32 is pressed.

[0073] Unless otherwise specified, please refer to the following as well. Figures 7 to 8b The user can press button 32, for example, to move the locking mechanism 14 to the unlocked position and pull the mowing line 3 out of the opening 11 of the mower head 1 to manually feed the mowing line 3. As an example, when the mowing line 3 is too short, the user can manually feed the mowing line 3 so that sufficient momentum is generated by rotating the mower head 1 to extract the mowing line 3.

[0074] Figure 9 It is shown according to the reference Figures 7 to 8b A schematic illustration of the mowing head 1 with a locking mechanism 14 and a mowing line spool 13 of the illustrated embodiment. Unless otherwise indicated, reference is made below. Figures 7 to 9The locking mechanism 14 is configured to lock the mower spool 13 to the housing 12 when in the locked position, as per reference. Figures 1 to 5a An embodiment of the lawnmower head 1 is explained. However, according to these embodiments, the mowing line spool 13 is locked to the housing 12 only in one of the two rotational directions. That is, as... Figure 9 As shown, each stop 16 of the mower spool 13 includes an angled surface 36 on one side of the stop 16 and a stop surface 38 on the other side of the stop. The angled surface 36 of the stop 16 allows the locking latch 18 to be displaced to the unlocked position by relative rotational movement between the housing 12 and the mower spool 13 about the axis of rotation ax, as described below.

[0075] Figure 10 It shows that according to Figure 9 The illustrated embodiment shows a schematic diagram of a mowing line spool 13 with a locking mechanism 14, illustrating the mowing line spool 13 as viewed in a direction aligned with the rotation axis ax of the mower head 1. Unless otherwise indicated, reference is made below. Figures 7 to 10 The locking mechanism 14, including the locking latch 18, is attached to the housing 12 of the lawnmower head 1. Figure 10 In the diagram, the locking latch 18 is shown in the locked position and is shown as the stop surface 38 of one of the stops 16 adjacent to the mower spool 13. The abutment contact between the locking latch 18 and the stop surface 38 of the stop 16 prevents the mower spool 13 from contacting the housing 12. Figure 10 Rotation is carried out in the first rotational direction rl shown. Similarly, the abutment contact between the locking latch 18 and the stop surface 38 of the stop 16 prevents the housing 12 from rotating relative to the mower reel 13. Figure 10 Rotate in the second rotation direction r2 shown. The second rotation direction r2 is opposite to the first rotation direction r1.

[0076] However, the angled surface 36 of the stop 16 of the lawnmower 13 is configured such that the locking latch 18 moves to the unlocked position by bringing the angled surface 36 into abutment contact with the locking latch 18. Figure 10 In the diagram, the locking latch 18' is schematically shown with dashed lines to facilitate understanding of the working principle of the lawnmower head 1 and the interaction between the locking mechanism 14 and the stop 16 of the lawnmower head 1. From the above understanding, the mowing line spool 13... Figure 10 It can rotate freely relative to the outer casing 12 in the second rotational direction r2 shown. Similarly, the outer casing 12... Figure 10 The mower line can rotate freely relative to the mower line spool 13 in the first rotational direction r1 shown, which facilitates loading the mower line onto the mower line spool 13, as described below.

[0077] Figure 11 It is shown according to the reference Figures 7 to 10 A perspective view of the lower side of the lawnmower head 1 in the illustrated embodiment. (See diagram below.) Figure 11 As can be clearly seen, the mowing line spool 13 of the mower head 1 is provided with a gripping portion 40. According to the illustrated embodiment, the gripping portion 40 is formed as a knob and arranged inside a recess 42 on the lower side of the mower head 1. However, according to some other embodiments, the gripping portion 40 may also protrude from the mower head 1. The gripping portion 40 may be integral with the mowing line spool 13, or it may be a separate component attached to the mowing line spool 13. The gripping portion 40 further facilitates the loading of the mowing line, as described below.

[0078] Figure 12 It shows Figure 11 The cross-section of lawnmower head 1 is shown. Figure 12 In the diagram, the cross-section is formed in a plane including the rotation axis ax of the lawnmower head 1. Unless otherwise specified, the following also refers to... Figures 7 to 12 Due to the features of the lawnmower head 1 according to these embodiments, the user can load the mowing line 3 into the mowing line spool 13 simply by inserting it into the opening 11 of the housing 12 and through the through hole 44 of the mowing line spool 13, without disassembling the lawnmower head 1. The user can then manually rotate the mowing line spool 13 and the housing 12 relative to each other to feed the mowing line 3 into the mowing line spool 13. Thus, the user can manually perform the relative rotation between the mowing line spool 13 and the housing 12. It can be understood from the above that the user can... Figure 10 and Figure 12 The first rotational direction rl shown rotates the housing 12 of the mower head 1 relative to the mowing line spool 13 to wind the mowing line 3 around the mowing line spool 13. Obviously, alternatively, the user can... Figure 10 The second rotation direction r2 shown rotates the mowing line spool 13 of the mower head 1 relative to the housing 12 to wind the mowing line 3 around the mowing line spool 13.

[0079] When the mowing line spool 13 is rotated relative to the housing 12, the user can use the gripper 40 and grip the housing 12. Since the gripper 40 is arranged within a recess 42 on the underside of the mower head 1, the gripper 40 has no part protruding from the mower head 1. Therefore, during operation of the mower head 1, the gripper 40 is unlikely to collide with objects. Furthermore, the gripper 40 does not increase the cutting height of the mower head 1. However, as described above, according to some further embodiments, the gripper 40 may also protrude from the mower head 1.

[0080] like Figure 12As shown, the through-hole 44 of the mowing line spool 13 includes multiple non-straight sections 44'. These non-straight sections 44' can also be referred to as curved sections or bends. The non-straight sections 44' can provide space for other components and arrangements of the mower head 1. However, according to another embodiment, the through-hole 44 of the mowing line spool 13 can be straight along its entire length.

[0081] During the loading process of the mowing line 3 into the mowing line spool 13, the user may have to align the opening 11 of the housing 12 with the opening of the through hole 44 before the mowing line 3 can be inserted into the opening of the through hole 44 of the mowing line spool 13. However, this can be performed in a simple manner because, as described above, the housing 12 is free to rotate relative to the mowing line spool 13 in the first rotational direction r1, and the mowing line spool 13 is free to rotate relative to the housing 12 in the second rotational direction r2. The mower head 1 may include one or more markings, such as one or more symbols, arrows, text, etc., to indicate one or more rotational positions between the mowing line spool 13 and the housing 12, wherein the opening 11 of the housing 12 is aligned with the opening of the through hole 44 of the mowing line spool 13.

[0082] The following will refer to Figure 10 The following explanation is provided. During one revolution of the housing 12 relative to the mower spool 13 in the first rotational direction r1, the locking latch 18 will reach all the stops 16 of the mower spool 13 and will move between the locked and unlocked positions through interaction with the angled surfaces 36 of the stops 16. However, if the housing 12 rotates relative to the mower spool 13 in the second rotational direction r2, the locking latch 18 will reach the stop surface 38 of one of the stops 16, which will prevent the housing 12 from rotating further relative to the mower spool 13 in the second rotational direction r2. Therefore, according to Figures 7 to 12 The interaction between the locking latch 18 and the stop 16 of the lawnmower head 1 in the illustrated embodiment acts as a so-called ratchet mechanism, which only allows the mowing line spool 13 to rotate relative to the housing 12 in one rotational direction.

[0083] As described above, the lawnmower head 1 is configured such that the mowing line 3 is fed into the mowing line spool 13 when the mowing line spool 13 rotates relative to the housing 12 in the second rotation direction r2, and that the mowing line 3 is expelled from the mowing line spool 13 when the mowing line spool 13 rotates relative to the housing 12 in the first rotation direction r1.

[0084] according to Figures 7 to 12 In the illustrated embodiment, the locking latch 18 is a pivot locking latch 18. That is, also in these embodiments, the locking latch 18 is pivotally arranged about a pivot axis. The locking latch 18 may be spring-biased toward the locked position.

[0085] like Figure 10 As shown, the substrate includes an abutting surface 46 configured to abut a portion 48 of the locking latch 18. During operation, when the rotational speed of the lawnmower head 1 increases beyond the operating speed, a release force F is applied. R Become greater than the locking force F L At this time, through the abutment contact between the adjacent surface 46 of the substrate 15 and the portion 48 of the locking latch 18, the movement of the substrate 15 is transformed into the movement of the locking latch 18 toward the unlocked position. Thus, the locking mechanism 14 can be moved to the unlocked position, as shown in the reference... Figures 1 to 6 As explained herein. However, as understood from the description herein, if the locking latch 18 is moved toward the unlocked position by pressing button 32 or by the angled surface 36 of the stop 16 of the mower reel 13, the abutment contact between the abutment surface 46 of the base plate 15 and the portion 48 of the locking latch 18 is released, allowing the locking latch 18 to move freely toward the unlocked position while the base plate 15 remains stationary. Figures 7 to 12 The lawnmower head 1 of the illustrated embodiment includes a plurality of release stops 17. The release stops 17 have the same characteristics as those in the reference... Figures 1 to 6 The release stop 17 of the lawnmower head 1 has the same features and functions as the lawnmower head 1.

[0086] Modifications and other variations of the described embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art, benefiting from the teachings presented in the foregoing description and the accompanying drawings. Therefore, it should be understood that the embodiments are not limited to the specific exemplary embodiments described in this disclosure, and that modifications and other variations are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure. For example, the locking mechanism may be configured such that the stop and release stop change position, with the locking latch abutting against the outer stop in the locked position. In this case, by increasing the rotational speed of the lawnmower head to exceed the operating speed, the locking latch will move inward to the unlocked position.

[0087] The locking mechanism can also be designed to move vertically between the stop and the release stop by using centrifugal force.

[0088] Furthermore, while specific terms may be used herein, they are used only in a general and descriptive sense and not for limiting purposes. Therefore, those skilled in the art will recognize that many variations of the described embodiments will still fall within the scope of the appended claims. As used herein, the terms “comprising” or “including” do not exclude the presence of other elements or steps. Moreover, while individual features may be included in different claims, these may be advantageously combined, and inclusion in different claims does not imply that combination of features is unfeasible and / or advantageous. Furthermore, singular references do not exclude plural references.

Claims

1. A lawnmower head (1), comprising: A rotatable housing (12) can be connected to a mowing line spool (13) that is rotatably supported by the housing (12). And a locking mechanism (14) for using locking force (F) L The mowing line spool (13) is locked to the housing (12), wherein the locking mechanism (14) is arranged to move from the locked position to the unlocked position when the rotational speed of the mower head (1) increases to exceed the operating speed, the increased rotational speed causing the release force (F) to be released. R ) greater than the locking force (F) L ), and wherein, in the unlocked position, the locking mechanism (14) releases the mowing line spool (13) from the housing (12), such that the mowing line spool (13) can rotate relative to the housing (12), and the mowing line (3) wound around the mowing line spool (13) is released and released by the centrifugal force (F) caused by the rotation of the mower head (1). C The locking mechanism (14) includes a pivoting locking latch (18), and the mowing line reel (13) includes at least one stop (16), wherein the pivoting locking latch (18) is arranged to engage with one of the at least one stop (16) in the locked position; wherein the mowing line reel (13) also includes at least one release stop (17), wherein the pivoting locking latch (18) is arranged to engage with one of the at least one release stop (17) when the locking mechanism (14) moves to the unlocked position; wherein the at least one release stop (17) is arranged radially outward of the at least one stop (16), and the amount of rotation (B) of the mowing line reel (13) relative to the housing (12) is defined by the angular distance between one stop (16) and an adjacent release stop (17).

2. The lawnmower head (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The locking mechanism (14) is a spring-loaded locking mechanism, and the increased speed causes the center of gravity of the locking mechanism (14) to shift, thereby increasing the release force (F). R The locking force (F) of the spring-loaded locking mechanism (14) is greater than the locking force (F). L ).

3. The lawnmower head (1) according to any one of claims 1 and 2, wherein, The locking mechanism (14) is arranged to move from the unlocked position back to the locked position when the rotational speed of the mower head (1) decreases below the operating speed, wherein the release force (F) R Reduce to less than the locking force (F) L ).

4. The lawnmower head (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The lawnmower head (1) includes a button (32) arranged on the housing (12), wherein the button (32) is operatively connected to the locking mechanism (14) to move the locking mechanism (14) to the unlocked position when the button (32) is pressed.

5. The lawnmower head (1) according to claim 3, wherein, The lawnmower head (1) includes a button (32) arranged on the housing (12), wherein the button (32) is operatively connected to the locking mechanism (14) to move the locking mechanism (14) to the unlocked position when the button (32) is pressed.

6. The lawnmower head (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The locking mechanism (14) allows the mowing line spool (13) to be manually rotated relative to the housing (12) in a rotational direction (r2).

7. A lawnmower (10) comprising a lawnmower head (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The lawnmower (10) further includes a drive mechanism for rotating the lawnmower head (1), and wherein the lawnmower (10) is arranged to move the mowing line spool (13) relative to the housing (12) by increasing the rotational speed of the lawnmower head (1) to exceed the operating speed.

8. The lawnmower (10) according to claim 7, wherein, The lawnmower (10) is arranged such that the locking mechanism (14) moves from the unlocked position to the locked position by reducing the rotational speed of the lawnmower head (1) to below the operating speed, in which the mowing line spool (13) is locked to the housing (12).

9. The lawnmower (10) according to claim 8, wherein, The lawnmower (10) is arranged to reduce the rotational speed of the lawnmower head (1) by alternately decreasing and increasing the rotational speed of the lawnmower head (1) until the rotational speed of the lawnmower head (1) is lower than the operating speed.

10. The lawnmower (10) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein, The lawnmower (10) is arranged to reduce the rotational speed of the lawnmower head (1) once the rotational speed of the lawnmower head (1) has reached the maximum rotational speed.

11. The lawnmower (10) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein, The lawnmower (10) is arranged to reduce the rotational speed of the lawnmower head (1) at a predetermined time after the rotational speed has been increased.

12. The lawnmower (10) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein, The lawnmower (10) is an electric lawnmower (10), and the drive unit (2, 4) includes a power supply (4) and an electric motor (2).

13. A method (600) for controlling the feed of the mowing line (3) in a lawnmower (10), the lawnmower comprising a mowing head (1) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The method (600) includes: - The rotational speed of the mower head (1) is increased to exceed the operating speed. At this increased rotational speed, the locking mechanism (14) moves from the locked position to the unlocked position, wherein the mowing line (3) wound around the mowing line spool (13) is released and released by the centrifugal force (F) caused by the rotation of the mower head (1). C (3) is pulled out, thereby allowing the mowing line (3) to feed.

14. The method (600) according to claim 13, wherein, The method (600) further includes: - The rotational speed of the mower head (1) is reduced to below the operating speed, thereby moving the locking mechanism (14) from the unlocked position to the locked position.

15. The method (600) according to claim 14, wherein, The method (600) further includes reducing the rotational speed of the mower head (1) by alternately decreasing and increasing the rotational speed of the mower head (1) until the rotational speed of the mower head (1) is lower than the operating speed.

16. The method (600) according to claim 14 or 15, wherein, The method (600) further includes reducing the rotational speed of the lawnmower head (1) once the rotational speed has reached the maximum rotational speed.

17. The method (600) according to claim 14 or 15, wherein, The method (600) further includes reducing the rotational speed of the lawnmower head (1) at a predetermined time after the rotational speed has been increased.

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