Adjustable Suspension Assembly for Standing Platform
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional standing platform systems for outdoor riding equipment, such as mowers, are uncomfortable for extended use over bumpy terrain due to lack of adequate suspension and adjustability for varying operator weights and terrain features.
Innovation Solution
A suspension assembly with a counter-biasing member and adjustable moment arm, allowing for uniform suspension and horizontal orientation of the standing platform across different operator weights and terrain conditions, including discrete raised portions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional standing platform system is used for outdoor riding equipment, then the equipment can operate on varied terrain, but the standing platform becomes uncomfortable for extended use over bumpy terrain due to lack of adequate suspension
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the suspension system adjustable rather than fixed. The moment arm distance between the contact location and pivot axis can be changed to match different operator weights, allowing the system to adapt dynamically to varying loads and terrain conditions, thereby improving comfort without excessive complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes physical parameters of the suspension system, specifically the moment arm distance and biasing force, to optimize performance. By adjusting these parameters according to operator weight, the system provides adequate suspension for comfort while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical structure
2Reliability
If a fixed suspension system is used, then the structure is simple, but it cannot provide uniform suspension experience for operators of varied weights
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension system transitions from a fixed configuration to a dynamic, adjustable one. The moment arm distance can be modified based on operator weight, enabling the system to provide uniform suspension experience across different weight classes while keeping the adjustment mechanism relatively simple
3Adaptability or versatility
If the standing platform is rigidly mounted to the frame, then the structure is stable, but it cannot allow for traverse over discrete raised terrain portions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by introducing a pivotable connection between the standing platform and frame, allowing the platform to rotate and adapt to discrete raised terrain portions while maintaining stability through the suspension assembly and counter biasing mechanism
4Reliability
If adequate suspension is added to the standing platform, then comfort is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a counter biasing member (spring or gas pressure source) to provide the suspension force needed for comfort. This counter-biasing mechanism absorbs terrain irregularities while maintaining a relatively simple structure compared to active suspension systems, thus improving comfort without excessive complexity
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
The solution provides a comfortable and stable suspension experience for operators of varying weights, preventing over-suspension or under-suspension, and allows for smooth traversal over uneven terrain without jostling, maintaining the platform substantially horizontal.
Implementation Method 1
The suspension assembly includes a counter biasing member acting in tension, disposed relatively horizontal relative to the terrain being traversed, and having a fixed biasing constant
Implementation Method 2
The suspension assembly and standing platform further are configured to allow for active counter biasing of the standing platform by the counter biasing member at the adjustment location of each varied weight setting
Implementation Method 3
The operator standing platform is pivotably coupled to the frame and supported relative to the frame by a suspension assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A standing operator support system for riding equipment, such as a standing mower, includes a suspendable standing platform for supporting the load of a standing operator and a suspension assembly adjustably engageable with the standing platform to suspend the standing platform relative to a fixable platform pivot axis of the standing platform. The suspension assembly is configured to allow for a uniform suspension experience for varied operators of varied weights while maintaining the standing platform in a relatively uniform and substantially horizontal orientation relative to terrain being traversed for the varied operators of varied weights. The suspension assembly is adjustable relative to the standing platform via a single motion to adjust between operator weight settings. The suspension assembly also may be adjustable relative to the standing platform for traverse over discrete raised portions of a terrain, such as a low rock wall or a curb.