Adjustable Locking Device for Lawn Mower Cutting Plate
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking/releasing devices for cutting plates on lawn tractors are not adjustable and lack safety features to maintain partial lock in case of failure, limiting their flexibility and user safety.
Innovation Solution
A locking/releasing device with an L-shaped bar featuring multiple adjustment holes and a safety hole, combined with a bushing, spiral spring, and safety pin, allowing for adjustable locking positions and ensuring the cutting plate can be lifted safely while maintaining integral connection, with components easily assembled and lightweight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single locking position pivot is used, then the device structure is simple, but the adaptability to different tractor models and applications is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The bar is segmented with multiple adjustment holes at different positions along its length. This allows the bushing to be locked at various positions by aligning holes with corresponding features on the tractor, providing adaptability to different models without requiring multiple different bar designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The bar serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, enables adjustable positioning through multiple holes, and works with the safety pin mechanism. This multi-functionality allows a single component design to adapt to various tractor models and applications.
2Reliability
If no safety means are provided, then the device structure is simpler, but the reliability in case of breaking is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The safety pin is positioned to engage with the bushing and bar structure in advance, creating a backup locking mechanism. In the event of breaking or failure of the primary spring-based locking system, the safety pin maintains the locked position, preventing accidental release and ensuring continued safety.
3Ease of operation
If the cutting plate is lifted by gripping at the front part, then the cutting area becomes accessible, but the operator may lose control of the plate
Solution Approach 1:
The locking/releasing device acts as an intermediary between the cutting plate and the tractor frame. The bushing, bar, and safety pin mechanism provide a controlled interface that allows the plate to be safely positioned and locked at inclined angles for cleaning, while maintaining secure attachment to the tractor.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables flexible use across various tractor models, ensures user safety by allowing multiple locking positions and maintaining the cutting plate in a predetermined position, with enhanced safety features preventing accidental unthreading and partial lock in case of failure.
Implementation Method 1
a spiral spring (24)
Implementation Method 2
a safety pin (30) inserted into a safety hole (111) of the bar (10)
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
A locking/releasing device (9) for a cutting plate (2) of a lawn mower (1) is described. Said device (9) comprises a bar (10) having through-holes (11, 111) and a bushing (15) provided with a cavity (16) closed at a head (18) of the bushing (15) and which develops from a mouth (17) opposite to said head (18) with respect to a longitudinal axis (P) of the bushing (15). Said bar (10) is adapted to be partially inserted into said cavity (16) of the bushing (15).