Autonomous operating apparatus

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing lawn mowers have complex and time-consuming assembly processes for connecting components, particularly those involving elastic members, which are costly and less reliable.

Innovation Solution

An autonomous operating apparatus with a main body mechanism comprising a first and second main body portion connected via an attachment unit, utilizing an elastic member and mating members with integral or connectable structures, allowing for simplified assembly and reliable operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional connecting components with fixing structures of elastic members are used, then the housing can be movably connected to the chassis, but the assembly process becomes complex and time-consuming requiring tools for installation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidassembly time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates the elastic member directly into the connecting component structure, merging what were previously separate parts (connecting component and elastic member) into a unified assembly. This integration eliminates the need for separate fixing structures and tool-based assembly, allowing for quick snap-fit installation while maintaining reliable elastic engagement between the housing and chassis.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The connecting component with integrated elastic member is designed to be self-assembling through snap-fit mechanisms that require no external tools. The elastic member automatically engages with the mating structure during assembly, providing self-aligning and self-securing functionality that eliminates the need for tool-based fastening operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If traditional connecting components with complex fixing structures are used, then the housing can be connected to the chassis, but the construction becomes complex resulting in higher costs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidconnecting component complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the connecting component and elastic member into a single integrated unit, eliminating the need for complex separate fixing structures. This merger reduces the number of parts and assembly steps while maintaining reliable elastic engagement, thereby simplifying the overall construction and reducing manufacturing costs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated connecting component serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical connection, elastic engagement, and positioning alignment all in one structure. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate fixing structures and reduces overall system complexity while maintaining reliable connection between housing and chassis.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If traditional connecting components are used, then the housing can move relative to the chassis, but the assembly process requires tools and is time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverelative movement capabilityVSAvoidassembly ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The connecting component with integrated elastic member is designed for tool-free self-assembly through snap-fit mechanisms. The elastic member automatically engages with the mating structure during assembly, providing self-aligning functionality that eliminates the need for external tools while maintaining the capability for relative movement between housing and chassis.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated elastic member provides dynamic engagement that allows for relative movement between housing and chassis while maintaining connection. The elastic properties enable the joint to accommodate movement while the snap-fit design enables easy assembly and disassembly without tools, balancing operational flexibility with manufacturing ease.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 simplifies assembly, enhances reliability, and reduces costs by integrating elastic members with mating members, ensuring efficient movement and response to external forces.

Implementation Method 1

an elastic member, wherein a first end of the elastic member is connectable to the first mating member via a second connecting structure, and a second end of the elastic member is connectable to the second mating member via a third connecting structure

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

the elastic member is configured such that the first end of the elastic member can be connected to the first mating member via a second connecting structure, and the second end of the elastic member can be connected to the second mating member via a third connecting structure

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring mechanism: Spring

Data Source

PatentUS12408587B2Autonomous operating apparatus
Publication Date: 2025.09.09 SHANGHAI SUNSEEKER ROBOTIC TECH CO LTD
  • US12408587B2 patent drawing
  • US12408587B2 patent drawing
  • US12408587B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An autonomous operating apparatus includes a main body mechanism with a first and second main body portions being connected to each other by an attachment unit. The attachment unit includes a first mating member, an elastic member and a second mating member. The first mating member is integrally formed with the first main body portion or is connected to the first main body portion via a first connecting structure. The first end is connected to the first mating member via a second connecting structure, and the second end is connected to the second mating member via a third connecting structure. The second mating member is integrally formed with the second main body portion or is connected to the second main body portion via a fourth connecting structure. The second end of the elastic member is fixed between the second main body portion and the second mating member.