Articulating Swing-Out Arm for Reel Mower Positioning
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional swing-out arms for reel lawn mowers are limited in their ability to position a reel assembly due to their single-axis rotation, restricting their functionality in both mowing and servicing operations.
Innovation Solution
An articulating swing-out arm with a rigid, elongate main member and secondary member, each connected to a joint assembly allowing for independent vertical rotation, enabling the reel assembly to be positioned in both a mowing position underneath the mower and a servicing position outside the frame.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single-axis rotation swing-out arm is used, then the structure is simple, but the ability to position the reel assembly is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The swing-out arm is divided into multiple segments (main arm and secondary arm) that can rotate independently about different axes. The main arm rotates about a first axis to position the reel assembly longitudinally, while the secondary arm rotates about a second axis to position it laterally, enabling comprehensive positioning capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from single-axis rotation to dual-axis rotation, adding another dimension of movement. The first joint assembly provides rotation about a first axis (longitudinal positioning), and the second joint assembly provides rotation about a second axis (lateral positioning), creating two-dimensional positioning capability.
2Ease of operation
If a single-axis rotation swing-out arm is used, then the device complexity is low, but the accessibility for servicing is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning function is segmented into two independent rotational movements. The main arm handles longitudinal positioning for mowing operations, while the secondary arm handles lateral positioning for servicing access, allowing the reel assembly to reach positions that improve accessibility for maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
By adding rotation about a second axis perpendicular to the first axis, the system can position the reel assembly in multiple directions. This enables the reel to be swung out laterally in addition to longitudinal movement, significantly improving accessibility for servicing operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A lawn mower, in particular a reel lawn mower, can include an articulating swing-out arm for supporting a reel assembly. The swing-out arm can include main and secondary members. The main member and the mower can be coupled to a first joint assembly which can define a first axis therethrough and can be operable to provide for rotation of the main member relative to the mower about the first axis. The main and secondary members can be coupled to a second joint assembly which can define a second axis therethrough and can be operable to provide for rotation of the secondary member relative to the main member about the second axis. The secondary member can also be coupled to the reel assembly. The swing-out arm can be operable to locate the reel assembly in a mowing position underneath the mower and a servicing position outside of the mower.