Elastomeric Isolator System for Turf Vehicle Platform Vibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Riding turf maintenance vehicles transmit repetitive and jarring forces, as well as vibrations, to operators due to their operation over undulating terrain and inherent engine vibrations, which existing isolator systems fail to fully attenuate effectively, especially when platforms are partially fixed to the chassis.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an elastomeric isolator system between the chassis and the support platform, comprising forward and rear isolators that locate and attenuate vibrations, allowing the platform to statically deflect and reducing direct metal-on-metal contact, thereby isolating the operator from chassis-borne forces and vibrations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If platforms are partially fixed to the chassis by a pivot joint, then the platform is securely retained, but a direct rigid load transmission path is created from the chassis to the platform
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces elastomeric isolators as intermediary elements between the chassis and support platform. These isolators serve as mediators that connect the two components while attenuating vibrations and forces, eliminating the direct rigid load transmission path created by pivot joints while maintaining secure platform retention
2Object-affected harmful factors
If elastomeric isolators are used between chassis and platform, then vibrations are attenuated, but platform alignment and location relative to chassis may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into the elastomeric isolators: they provide vibration attenuation while simultaneously incorporating alignment features and locating mechanisms. The isolators are designed with protrusions and recesses that engage with corresponding features on the chassis and platform, merging the functions of vibration isolation and precise positioning into a single integrated component
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 elastomeric isolator system effectively reduces vibrations and forces transmitted to the operator, enhancing comfort and reducing noise, while maintaining platform alignment and stability during vehicle operation.
Implementation Method 1
an elastomeric forward isolator positioned between the chassis and the support platform... and an elastomeric rear isolator associated with the retainer such that the rear isolator is also positioned between the chassis and the support platform
Data Source
AI summary
A support platform isolator system for a turf maintenance vehicle. The isolator system may include one or more rear isolators, and one or more forward isolators, the isolators positioned between a chassis of the vehicle and a support platform. The isolator system may not only reduce “metal-on-metal” noise between the chassis and the platform, but may also attenuate vibration and/or shock loads transmitted to the platform. In addition, the system may assist in locating the platform on, and retaining the platform to, the chassis. The isolators of the system may form primary contact areas between the chassis and the platform.