Compressible Bushing Platform for Turf Applicator Vibration Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing applicators for applying products in turf management and other areas face issues such as operator discomfort due to rough terrain, difficulty in differential application, and excessive application errors, leading to operator fatigue and inefficiency.
Innovation Solution
A vehicular apparatus with a pivotally mounted platform supported by compressible bushings for reduced vibration, a ground speed lock mechanism, and a variator system for controlled application, along with a fan-style spray tip and shielding for efficient product distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the operator is carried by prior applicators traversing rough terrain, then the applicator can cover large application areas, but the operator is jolted or subjected to bumps causing discomfort and fatigue
Solution Approach 1:
The platform is segmented from the vehicular portion, connected only through compressible bushings that isolate the operator from vibrations and shocks while allowing the vehicle to traverse rough terrain effectively
Solution Approach 2:
Compressible bushings serve as an intermediary element between the vehicular portion and the platform, absorbing vibrations and shocks to protect the operator while maintaining vehicle mobility across large areas
2Productivity
If prior applicators are used for differential application to areas like sidewalks, then product can be applied to application areas, but the applicators lack the ability to differentially apply product or include complicated controls
Solution Approach 1:
The proportioner arm and gate assembly provide dynamic control capabilities, allowing the operator to easily adjust and differentially apply product to specific areas such as sidewalks versus application areas through simple mechanical movements rather than complicated controls
Solution Approach 2:
The applicator enables local quality control by allowing differential product application to specific zones (e.g., applying product to application areas while avoiding sidewalks) through the proportioner arm and gate assembly control mechanism
3Productivity
If the operator must make multiple passes over large application areas, then complete coverage can be achieved, but the operator must stop and start multiple times causing application errors
Solution Approach 1:
The ground speed lock mechanism provides feedback-based speed control, allowing the operator to maintain consistent ground speed during multiple passes and preventing overlapping application errors through proper speed management
4Ease of operation
If the operator must stop the applicator for adjustment operations, then control adjustments can be made, but productivity is reduced due to repeated stopping
Solution Approach 1:
The control mechanisms are designed for self-service operation, allowing the operator to make adjustments while moving without stopping the applicator, maintaining operational continuity and productivity
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 apparatus provides a more comfortable and efficient application process by minimizing operator fatigue, allowing precise control over product distribution and reducing application errors, while enabling effective coverage with minimal overlap.
Implementation Method 1
The bushings are each formed of compressible material, with the platform solely supported by the vehicular portion through the bushings
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus applies product and includes a pivotal platform solely supported through bushings formed of compressible material. The ground speed can be locked by stepping on a step pivoting a composite block to engage with an engagement of the transmission proportioner arm. A gate is opened utilizing a control lever pivotally mounted to a pivotably mounted control block to either engage or avoid a tang of an adjustment guide. A drive belt system includes a variator having first and second sheaves having variable effective diameters when their pivot pin is moved by pivoting a lever. A spray tip sprays a fan style spray at a small acute angle to the application area. A flip shield is pivoted about an axis parallel to the movement direction and includes a linear straight portion parallel to the axis in a redirection position.