Foot-controlled stand-up zero-turn utility vehicle

Abstract

summary In one embodiment, the foot controls on the utility vehicle are used to operate the vehicle. This includes zero-turn stand-up utility vehicles, which are operated while standing. Foot operation frees the user's hands, making it ideal for hand-operated equipment (e.g., brush cutters). , edger, blower, etc. are freely available. The vehicle has a single third wheel (a lawnmower blade cover) extending from the front of the vehicle frame. It can have a state where there are no protruding parts such as a fin.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Related Applications This application is entitled "Foot Controlled Stand Up Zero Turn Radius Utility Vehicle" This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Application No. 15 / 988,948 (filed May 24, 2018). U.S. Application No. 15 / 25 entitled "Controlled Stand Up Zero Turn Radius Utility Vehicle" This is a continuation of U.S. Patent No. 5,958, which issued as U.S. Patent No. 10,046,798, filed September 2, 2016. and the contents of each are incorporated herein by reference. FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present embodiments relate generally to utility vehicles, and more particularly to , which relates to a foot-controlled stand-up zero-turn utility vehicle. . [Background technology]

[0002] Background of the Invention Traditional utility vehicles are hand-operated equipment (e.g., brush cutters or edgers). ) was not suitable for certain applications. Traditional vehicles require manual operation and driving. In addition, there is a platform or deck (e.g., This is because the blades of the lawnmower etc. are extended. For example, using a brush cutter or edger was difficult or cumbersome. One or more embodiments are devised in light of these limitations and problems. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Summary of the Invention Some embodiments include a zero-turn utility vehicle (each drive wheel is independently controlled). This uses a foot controller mounted on a utility vehicle, allowing the user to stand and It is operated in a stand-up state. Be free to use hand-operated equipment (e.g., brush cutters, edgers, blowers, etc.) In addition, this utility vehicle is A single third wheel extending from the front of the lawnmower (without any protruding parts such as lawnmower blade covers) This allows you to operate the lawnmower without being obstructed by the blade cover. , using hand-held equipment (e.g. brush cutters, edgers, hedge trimmers, blowers, etc.) can be used to work on the ground in front of the utility vehicle. It is now possible to operate the vehicle with your feet while remaining on top of it and still use the equipment at hand. become.

[0004] In another embodiment, the frame has a single front caster wheel, the front user support for the user, foot control, rear user support, right rear drive wheel, left rear drive This utility vehicle includes a frame-mounted engine and The left and right rear drive wheels are configured to independently control the speed and direction of rotation of each wheel. and a drive system. The utility vehicle further includes a foot-controlled portion. This part is installed in the place where the feet are placed, and the left foot control part, the center stationary part, and the right foot control part are The control units for the left and right legs are connected to the drive system. The foot controls the speed and direction of the left drive wheel, and the right foot controls the speed and direction of the right drive wheel. Lift the center stationary part up and place it on top of the left foot control part and the right foot control part. It is also possible to

[0005] The vehicle further includes a removable platform having a stand, a handrail, a first leg, and a second leg. The device may include a liftable platform. The first leg may be longer than the second leg. In addition, the vehicle can also be equipped with a sprayer system. The sprayer includes a tank and a sprayer pump attached to the sprayer handle. A sprayer handle holder can be installed near the nozzle. The vehicle may also include an accessory tray and a rear user support. It will be installed. In one embodiment, the engine comprises a combustion engine and a fuel In another embodiment, the engine includes an electric motor and powers the electric motor. Includes a battery to supply power. It also includes an engine starter switch, throttle control, and brake control. It further includes a ballast weight disposed outboard of the operator support. In addition, the vehicle can be provided with a rollover prevention device at the outer lower rear portion of the frame. A trailer hitch can be installed on the outer lower rear part of the frame. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] Brief description of the diagram [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a side view of an example embodiment of a foot-controlled zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a top view of an example embodiment of a foot-controlled zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle. [Figure 3]FIG. 1 is a front view of an example embodiment of a foot-controlled zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a rear view of an example embodiment of a foot-controlled zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a front view of an example embodiment of a foot-controlled zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle with an elevator installed. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a front view of an example embodiment of a foot-controlled zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle with an elevator installed. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a front view of an example embodiment of a foot-controlled zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle with an elevator installed. [Figure 8] 1 is a side view of an example embodiment of a foot-controlled zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle with an elevator installed; FIG. [Figure 9] 1 is a detailed view of an example embodiment of a zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle. [Figure 10] 1 is a detailed view of an example embodiment of a zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a top view of an example embodiment of a zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle. [Figure 12] FIG. 1 illustrates an example embodiment of a zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle with the brake lock system in a disengaged state. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 illustrates an example embodiment of a zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle with the brake lock system in a locked position. [Figure 14] FIG. 1 is a side view of an example embodiment of a diffuser installed on a zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle. [Figure 15] 10 is a side view of an example embodiment of an alternative diffuser installation on a zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle. FIG. [Figure 16]FIG. 1 is a side view of an example embodiment of a zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle with a dump box installed. [Figure 17] FIG. 1 is a side view of an example embodiment of a utility box installed on a zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle. [Figure 18] FIG. 1 is a top view of an example embodiment of a leaf blower mounted on a zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle. [Figure 19] FIG. 1 is a side view of an example embodiment of a zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle with a track drive. [Figure 20] FIG. 1 is a side view of an example embodiment of a leaf blower mounted on a zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] Details of the invention Please note that the figures depicted herein are for illustrative purposes only and may not be to scale. Please understand that the dimensions described in this specification are also example dimensions for the purpose of explanation. It should be understood that other dimensions may be used. Standard features of the engine and hydraulic drive system are omitted for clarity of the disclosed invention. It uses a standard gasoline lawnmower engine or a standard electric motor. Hydraulic drives and exemplary foot control mechanisms are described, for example, in U.S. Pat. ,845,829, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0008] FIG. 1 is an example embodiment of a foot-controlled zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle. 1 is a side view of a stand-up zero-turn utility with foot controls; The vehicle 100 includes an engine 102 (e.g., a combustion engine or an electric motor), a fuel tank, and a a rear drive wheel 106, a rear drive wheel 107, a rear drive wheel 108, a rear drive wheel 109, a rear drive wheel 1101, a rear drive wheel 1102, a rear drive wheel 1103, a rear drive wheel 1104, a rear drive wheel 1105, a rear drive wheel 1106, a rear drive wheel 1107, a rear drive wheel 1108, a rear drive wheel 1109, a (not shown), a single front wheel 108, and a frame including: a front wheel caster 110, a front wheel support bracket 112, a support cushion for the rear user 114, and a support cushion for the front user 11 6, a fixed part 118, a left foot control 120, a right foot control (not shown in this figure), Front occupant support 122 and rear occupant support 124 are included. Some vehicles have two front wheels with a smaller diameter than the single front wheel. The 110 and 112 are single-wheeled vehicles that include two front wheel assemblies mounted on a frame. The front wheel assembly is similar to that of the previous example, see Figure 11. The two front wheels are spaced apart, It can be attached to the frame near each side. In use, the operator 126 is positioned at a user position 128 (e.g., a front user support 122 and a rear user support 124). and set the brake control (214, FIG. 2). Set the throttle (210, Figure 2) and use the ignition (or power) switch (212, Figure 2) to Start the engine. After the engine is running (or turned on in the case of an electric motor), Release the rake control (214) and use the left and right foot controls as described in more detail below. The operator 126 uses the rear end of the utility vehicle to move the vehicle. Support section 122 and front user support cushion 116, and rear operator support Use the support body 124 and rear user support cushion 114 to support yourself.

[0009] The ground clearance of the vehicle can be fixed or adjustable. Some vehicles have a clearance of approximately 5.25 inches between the top and the ground, allowing the vehicle to move freely across the grass. For example, on grass such as St. Augusta grass, a relatively low weight is used for stability. You will be able to move freely while maintaining your mind. An example of a utility vehicle is approximately 38.5 inches wide and measures from the front of the front wheels to the rear of the vehicle. It is approximately 54.5 inches long at full speed and has a 35 inch wheelbase. The front wheels are 13x5.00 tires. The rear drive wheels are, for example, 20x7 or 18x8.50 tires. The front wheel support brackets are , can extend approximately 12 inches from the front user's support portion 122. The support is approximately 27 5 / 8 inches above the ground. Rear occupant support cushion The top of the user standing area 128 may be approximately 38 3 / 4 inches from the ground. The distance from the engine support to the rear operator support is approximately 18 and 3 / 4 inches. , approximately 23 inches from front to rear.

[0010] FIG. 2 illustrates an example embodiment of a foot-controlled zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle. In FIG. 2, the left foot control 202, sprayer tank 204, and left rear drive wheel 206 are shown. Also shown is an accessory tray 208 recessed onto the rear operator support 124. It is being done.

[0011] FIG. 3 illustrates an example embodiment of a foot-controlled zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle. A front view showing the ballast attached to the outside of the rear user support 122. A ballast weight 302 is shown. The ballast weight 302 is used for utility vehicles and Size can be determined based on the specifics of a particular embodiment of the user's weight, height or other characteristics. Additionally, recesses 304 and 306 are visible here. These recesses are used for attachments such as those shown in Figures 5-7. It is intended for mounting a removable lifting platform.

[0012] FIG. 4 illustrates an embodiment of a foot-controlled zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle. 4 is a rear view of an example rear user support cushion 114. A pivot member 402 is shown that allows pivoting relative to the support 124. A rear operator support frame 404, a sprayer handle 406, a sprayer pump 408, and a sprayer Also shown is a sprayer handle holder 410 positioned adjacent to the tank 204. Both the hitch 412 and the anti-tip device 414 are attached to the lower rear portion of the vehicle frame. It shows.

[0013] Figure 5-7 shows a foot-controlled zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle with a stand-up platform. 5 is a front view of an example embodiment in which the elevated platform 502 is installed. The base on which the controller stands (FIG. 8), the handrail frame, the first leg 504, the second leg 506, the elevated stand 5, the second leg 506 is positioned further forward than the first leg 504. This allows the user's legs to be inserted into the corresponding recesses (304, 306) in the rear user's support section 122. When the lifting platform stand 502 is lowered into position (see FIG. 6), the second leg 506 engages in the corresponding recess 306 before the first leg 504 engages in the corresponding recess 304. This allows the operator to effectively mount the elevating platform 502 on one leg at a time. The support portion 508 engages with the lower front wheel support member 112 and supports the lifting platform. The casing is configured to provide additional support to the platform.

[0014] FIG. 7 shows the lifting mechanism with both legs (504, 506) fully inserted into the corresponding recesses (304, 306). 1 shows the platform 502 fully installed.

[0015] Figure 8 shows a foot-controlled zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle with a stand-up platform. FIG. 5 is a side view of an example embodiment installed, where an elevating stand-on platform 502 is installed. 8 shows the front wheel 126 standing on the platform. Also shown is support member 508 engaged with support member 112.

[0016] 9 and 10 show an example embodiment of a zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle. Exemplary dimensions for the foot controls are: "A" dimension of approximately 26.25 inches; "B" dimension of approximately 12.5 inches; "B" dimension, "C" dimension of approximately 7 and 7 / 8 inches, "D" dimension of approximately 10.5 inches, and and 7 / 8 inch "E" dimension.

[0017] As shown in Figure 10, the foot control for the left leg rotates about a pivot hinge 1002. Foot Control When the part is in a first direction (for example, forward), the left rear drive wheel is driven forward, and when the part is in a second direction (for example, The stationary portion 118 can be moved in the opposite direction when the height (in FIG. 10) is Dimension "F") is approximately 3.5 inches.

[0018] FIG. 11 shows a zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle with two front wheels and a front wheel assembly. 1 is an example embodiment of a vehicle 1100. Here, the first front wheel 108, the first front caster 110, A first front wheel assembly including a first front wheel support bracket 112, a second front wheel 108', a second front wheel support bracket 112 ... There is a second front wheel assembly including a caster 110', a second front wheel support bracket 112'.

[0019] 12 and 13 show an example embodiment of a zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle. , indicates the brake lock system (or foot control lock). The stem 1200 includes a brake handle 1202, a brake handle connection portion 1204, and a brake pivot Axis 1206, connecting tab 1207, adjustment spring 1208, handle lock gear 1210, handle lock gear teeth 1212, foot control part lock gear 1216, foot control part lock gear teeth 1214, foot control part (foot control It consists of a linkage part 1218 for the foot and a foot control part 1220 for the foot. As shown in FIG. 13, the brake lock system 1200 includes a handle lock gear 1210 on the handle lock gear. Locking gear teeth 1212 mate with foot control locking gear teeth 1214 on foot control locking gear 1216. When the foot control is engaged, it is engaged in a locked position, which prevents movement of the foot control and The foot controls 1220 are in the neutral position and the brake handle 1202 is When in the locked position, another control (not shown), such as a switch, is activated. The zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle starts.

[0020] In another embodiment, it may include a single pin or protrusion (e.g., on 1212 or 1214). This engages with a corresponding slot (eg, on 1212 or 1214). Even if the lock gear teeth 1212 and the foot control lock gear teeth 1214 are not aligned, the adjustment spring 1208 This allows the brake handle 1202 to be engaged in the locked position. With the handle 1202 in the locked position, pressure is applied to the handle lock gear 1210, As soon as the foot control 1220 is moved slightly, it engages and the teeth align to lock the foot control 1220. Check.

[0021] Please note that Figures 12 and 13 show the brake lock component of one foot control. In one embodiment, the brake lock mechanism for the other foot control is Some configurations include two sets (e.g., 1207-1220), where the first set of configurations is the first A second set of configurations is provided for the control of one foot (e.g., the left side), and a second set of configurations is provided for the control of the other foot. A connecting tab 1207 is provided for connecting to the brake pivot shaft 1206. 1202 and transmits motion from the brake handle 1202 to other locking mechanisms. This is an example embodiment in which a diffuser is installed on a zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle. The diffuser 1400 includes an attachment tube 1402, an alignment brace 1406, a hopper 1410, an agitator 1412, It includes a motor 1414 and a power connector 1416 (eg, for supplying power to the motor 1414).

[0022] The attachment tube 1402 of the diffuser 1400 is a zero turn stand-up utility - glides inside the vehicle frame 1404. Alignment brake on diffuser 1400 The support 1406 is installed in the front axle support 1408 of a zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle. The power supplied to the diffuser 1400 is supplied via a power connector 1416 and is zero-power. Other controls such as switches on the frame of a stand-up utility vehicle (not shown).

[0023] FIG. 15 shows the diffuser 1400 installed on a zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle. This is an example embodiment.

[0024] FIG. 16 illustrates an example embodiment of a zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle in a dump box. The dump box 1600 is a side view of the attachment tube 16. 02, alignment brace 1606, dump box container 1608, pivot anchor 1610, dump Includes Pre-Bar 1612.

[0025] The attachment tube 1602 on the dump box 1600 is a zero-turn stand-up It glides inside the utility vehicle frame 1604. Alignment Brace 1606 is used in front of a zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle The dump lever 1612 is mounted on the axle support 1608. The dump box container 1608 pivots A dump box container 1608 pivots about an anchor 1610 to dump its contents out. can be actuated to release the

[0026] Figure 17 shows a zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle with a utility box. The utility box 1700 is attached to a mounting tube 1702. , alignment brace 1706, utility box container 1710 (e.g., for tools, supplies, etc.) (including for holding etc.) The attachment tube 1702 of the utility box 1700 is a zero-turn stand-up It slides into the frame 1704 of the utility box of the utility vehicle. The alignment brace 1706 on the utility box 1700 is Front axle support for utility box on stand-up utility vehicle 17 It will be installed on 08.

[0027] Figure 18 shows a blower blowing leaves onto a zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle. The blower that blows away fallen leaves has a left output 1802 and a right output 1803. It consists of an output 1804 and a control panel 1806.

[0028] A control panel 1806 controls one or both of the leaf blower outputs 1802, 1804. The blower that blows away fallen leaves is, for example, foot-controlled. The operator of a zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle can use their feet to You can also operate it while controlling the edger. Foot-controlled zero-turn stand-up utility with edging Vehicles blow up surfaces when passing over edged sections of grass or beds. It can be stretched.

[0029] Figure 19 shows a zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle with tracks. 1 is a side view of an example embodiment with a zero-turn stand-up unit. The utility vehicle 1900 includes a track 1902 . Figure 20 shows a blower blowing leaves onto a zero-turn stand-up utility vehicle. FIG. 1 is a side view of an embodiment in which a blower attachment for blowing away fallen leaves is installed. The 2000 includes the attachment tube 2002, the leveling wheel 2004, and the leveling brace. 2006, including leaf plow 2008. From the above, in accordance with various embodiments disclosed herein, a zero-turn stand-up explained the utility vehicle. While this invention has been described in conjunction with several embodiments, many alternatives, modifications and variations are possible. It is obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art that this is possible. Accordingly, it is intended to cover all such alternatives, modifications, equivalents and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the present invention. It is intended to encompass all of the above.

Claims

1. 1. A utility vehicle comprising: a frame having at least one front caster wheel, a front operator support, a stand-up operation section, a rear operator support, a right rear drive wheel, and a left rear drive wheel; an engine coupled to the frame; a drive system coupled to the engine and configured to independently control the speed and direction of rotation of each of the left and right rear drive wheels; foot controls disposed on the stand-up operation unit, the foot controls including a left foot control, a center stationary unit, and a right foot control, the left foot control being coupled to the drive system and operable to control the speed and direction of rotation of the left rear drive wheel, and the right foot control being coupled to the drive system and operable to control the speed and direction of rotation of the right rear drive wheel; a brake lock system for preventing movement of the left foot control or the right foot control when the system is activated; The brake lock system includes a brake handle. a locking pin or slot associated with the brake handle aligns with a locking pin or slot associated with the left foot control and the right foot control; the brake handle has a first position and a second position; the first position locks the left foot control and the right foot control; The utility vehicle, wherein the second position unlocks the left foot control and the right foot control.

2. Further comprising the following removable dump box:

2. The utility vehicle of claim 1, wherein the dump box includes a dump box container, a dump lever, a pivot anchor, and a dump box support member, and is configured to engage a front wheel support member.

3. The device further includes the following removable utility box:

10. The utility vehicle of claim 1, wherein the utility box includes a utility box container and a support portion configured to engage the front wheel support member.

4. 1. A utility vehicle comprising: a frame having at least one front caster wheel, a front operator support, a stand-up operation section, a rear operator support, a right rear drive wheel, and a left rear drive wheel; an engine coupled to the frame; a drive system coupled to the engine and configured to independently control the speed and direction of rotation of each of the left and right rear drive wheels; foot controls disposed on the stand-up operation unit, the foot controls including a left foot control, a center stationary unit, and a right foot control, the left foot control being coupled to the drive system and operable to control the speed and direction of rotation of the left rear drive wheel, and the right foot control being coupled to the drive system and operable to control the speed and direction of rotation of the right rear drive wheel; a spreader having a spreader support member, a hopper, an agitator, a motor, and a power connector; a brake handle; the spreader support member is connected at a removable spreader and configured to engage a front wheel support member; a locking pin or slot associated with the brake handle aligns with a locking pin or slot associated with the left foot control and the right foot control; the brake handle has a first position and a second position; the first position locks the left foot control and the right foot control; The second position unlocks the left foot control and the right foot control.

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