Adjustable Broadcast Spreader Handle for Seated Gate Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Operators of broadcast spreaders often find it difficult to reach and use the control handle while seated in or on a vehicle, making it challenging to control the flow of granular material effectively.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable handle for a broadcast spreader that includes multiple components, such as an elongated base portion and links, which can be selectively positioned and arranged in various configurations to allow operators to choose a convenient position for controlling the gate of the spreader.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the control handle is positioned behind the operator in a fixed configuration, then the gate control function is maintained, but the operator finds it difficult to reach and use the control handle while seated in or on the vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The control handle is designed with adjustable length and configurable components that allow dynamic repositioning. The handle includes an elongated base portion, multiple links, and fasteners that enable the operator to adjust the handle's length and configuration to achieve the most convenient operating position while seated in or on the vehicle.
Solution Approach 2:
The control handle is divided into multiple segments including an elongated base portion, multiple links, and fasteners. This segmentation allows each component to be independently positioned and connected in different configurations, providing operational flexibility while maintaining relative structural simplicity through modular assembly.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the control handle uses a fixed single configuration, then the device complexity is low, but it cannot adapt to different operator positions and vehicle types
Solution Approach 1:
The control handle incorporates adjustable components including an elongated base portion with openings, multiple links with fasteners, and configurable connections that enable dynamic repositioning. These features allow the handle to adapt to different operator positions and vehicle types while maintaining operational simplicity through a modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The control handle is designed with universal adaptability through its adjustable base portion, multiple links, and fastener system. This multi-functional design allows the same handle assembly to accommodate various operator positions and different vehicle types (trucks, ATVs, zero-turn radius mowers) without requiring separate handle configurations for each application.
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable handle for a broadcast spreader includes: a base portion that is configured to be operably connected to a gate of a broadcast spreader, such that, when the base portion is operably connected to the gate, movement of the base portion causes a corresponding movement of the gate; and one or more links. Each link of the adjustable handle is configured to be selectively connected to the base portion, such that each link can be selectively connected to a distal end of the base portion at different locations along the length of the link to affect the height and/or configuration of the adjustable handle. The adjustable handle can include multiple links which can be selectively positioned and arranged in different configurations to affect the overall height and shape of the adjustable handle.