Single Lever Engine Control Assembly for Throttle and Choke
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional engine control mechanisms for internal combustion engines are often complex and difficult for operators to use, particularly in actuating throttle and choke components, necessitating an improved design that simplifies user interaction and enhances performance.
Innovation Solution
An engine control assembly featuring a mounting structure with a first lever that rotates to multiple positions, linked structures for throttle and choke operations, and a switch device for engine shutdown, utilizing a rod with a bend portion and orifice configuration to facilitate smooth and intuitive control of engine components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional engine control mechanisms are used, then engine components can be controlled, but the operator finds the control difficult and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple engine control functions (throttle control, choke control, and engine shutdown) into a single integrated control assembly with one lever. The lever can rotate to different positions to simultaneously or independently control each function, eliminating the need for separate control mechanisms for each component. This merging reduces operational complexity while maintaining full control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The single lever control assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: it can control throttle operation, choke operation, and engine shutdown by rotating to different positions. This multi-functional design allows one control element to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate controls, thereby improving ease of operation without sacrificing control precision.
2Ease of operation
If multiple separate control mechanisms are used for throttle and choke, then precise control is achieved, but operator complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges throttle control, choke control, and engine shutdown control into a single integrated assembly. The lever structure with its multiple rotational positions allows the operator to control all three functions through one unified interface, reducing the number of separate control components from three to one, thereby simplifying operation while preserving control precision.
Solution Approach 2:
While combining multiple functions into one lever, the patent uses segmentation within the lever structure itself - different portions of the lever's rotation range correspond to different control functions. The lever can be positioned in first position for throttle control, second position for choke control, and third position for shutdown, effectively segmenting the control functions within a unified structure.
3Device complexity
If a single lever controls multiple functions, then operation is simplified, but control precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic lever structure that can rotate through multiple distinct positions, each corresponding to a specific control function or state. The lever transitions between positions to activate different functions (throttle, choke, shutdown), and the system maintains precise control by defining specific angular ranges for each function. This dynamic positioning allows a single lever to provide both simplified operation and precise control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary linkage structures (such as rods and connecting mechanisms) between the lever and the actual engine components (throttle, choke, shutdown mechanism). These intermediaries translate the lever's rotational movements into precise linear or rotational actuation of the engine components, ensuring that control precision is maintained even though a single lever is used for multiple functions.
Data Source
AI summary
Engine control assemblies for use with internal combustion engines, engines having such assemblies, and methods for operating such engines and assemblies are disclosed. In one example embodiment of an engine control assembly encompassed herein, the assembly includes a lever structure configured to rotate to any of a plurality of positions ranging from a first position to a second position. The assembly also includes at least one linking structure configured to allow rotational movement of the lever structure to influence at least indirectly an engine choking operation, where the at least one linking structure including a rod that includes a bend portion along its length, and the lever structure includes a formation with an orifice through which the rod extends. The rod and formation are configured so that at least some other rotational movement of the lever structure does not cause any corresponding movement of the choke actuation input structure.