Adjustable Handle Mechanism for Compact Lawn Mower Storage

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing outdoor walking apparatuses, such as hand-push mowers, have large overall sizes that are not conducive to storage and transportation due to their rigid handle structures, which limit flexibility and convenience.

Innovation Solution

A walking work apparatus with a handle featuring a multi-connecting rod assembly and a switch that allows the handle to be adjusted between unfolded and folded states, enabling secure locking and unlocking mechanisms to facilitate easier handling and storage, including a rotary device connecting first and second connecting rods, allowing for rotational movement when unlocked.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If the handle structure is made rigid to maintain structural stability, then the stability of the handle is improved, but the overall size of the apparatus increases and storage and transportation become difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehandle stabilityVSAvoidapparatus size
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The handle structure is transformed from a static rigid structure to a dynamic adjustable structure. The connecting rod assembly can rotate between an extended working position and a folded storage position, allowing the handle to adapt its configuration based on operational needs. This dynamic capability enables the handle to maintain stability during use while reducing overall apparatus volume for storage and transportation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Volume of moving object

If the handle is made foldable to reduce size for storage, then the volume of the apparatus is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to insufficient flexibility

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveapparatus sizeVSAvoidhandle flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The connecting rod assembly incorporates rotational joints that enable smooth transition between folded and extended positions. This dynamic mechanism provides the handle with flexible adaptability, allowing users to easily adjust the handle configuration based on operational requirements while maintaining a compact form factor for storage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If a locking mechanism is added to secure the handle in position, then the reliability of the handle position is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehandle position stabilityVSAvoidmechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism is designed to automatically engage and disengage based on the handle's position. When the connecting rod assembly reaches the extended or folded position, the locking mechanism self-activates to secure the position without requiring additional user actions. This self-service capability ensures reliable position locking while minimizing the complexity of the overall mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS20230034760A1Walking work apparatus and hand-push lawn care vehicle
Publication Date: 2023.02.02 NANJING CHERVON IND
  • US20230034760A1 patent drawing
  • US20230034760A1 patent drawing
  • US20230034760A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A walking work apparatus includes a body, a walking wheel set, a function assembly, a drive motor and a handle. The handle is connected to the body and configured to push the body to walk. The handle includes a hand grip, and a multi-connecting rod assembly. The hand grip is configured to be held by a user. The multi-connecting rod assembly connects the hand grip and the body. The multi-connecting rod assembly includes at least a first connecting rod, a second connecting rod, and a rotary device connecting the first connecting rod and the second connecting rod. The switch is configured to be operated to a lock position and an unlocked position.