Front-Load Deck Integration for Stand-On Mower Load Transport
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing stand-on mowers lack a load deck, necessitating the use of additional machines or manual carrying of materials, which is inefficient and costly for landscaping and lawn care operations.
Innovation Solution
A load deck is mounted to the front wheel frame of a stand-on mower, providing a solid metal structure for carrying loads such as landscaping materials, eliminating the need for separate equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a load deck is added to the stand-on mower, then the versatility and operational efficiency are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The load deck is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as a carrying platform for landscaping materials, a support structure for attachments, and an integrated part of the mower's front assembly. This multi-functionality allows a single component to replace what would otherwise require multiple separate pieces of equipment, thereby improving versatility while managing complexity through functional integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The load deck is merged with the front wheel frame assembly, combining the loading platform with the steering mechanism. The pivot mounts that enable steering are integrated into the load deck structure itself, creating a unified assembly that reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the overall device while maintaining both loading and steering capabilities.
2Productivity
If a load deck is mounted to the front wheel frame, then the productivity is improved, but the weight of the moving object increases
Solution Approach 1:
The load deck is combined with the front wheel frame and pivot mount assembly, creating an integrated structure that utilizes existing structural components. By merging the load deck with the steering mechanism rather than adding it as a completely separate attachment, the patent leverages the existing frame structure to support the load, thereby minimizing additional weight while maximizing productivity gains.
3Ease of operation
If the load deck is mounted forward of the mower deck, then the maneuverability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The load deck is merged with the front wheel frame assembly, and the pivot mounts are integrated into the load deck structure. This integration allows the load deck to move with the front wheels during steering operations, eliminating the need for separate steering mechanisms and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining full maneuverability.
Solution Approach 2:
The load deck is designed with pivot mounts that allow it to rotate dynamically with the front wheels during steering. This dynamic configuration enables the load deck to adapt its position based on the steering angle, improving maneuverability by ensuring the load remains properly positioned relative to the direction of travel without requiring complex mechanical linkages.
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a stand-on mower, comprising a chassis having drive wheels operably coupled to the chassis, a platform arranged between the drive wheels, a front wheel frame, coupled to the chassis, and having pivot mounts and front wheels coupled to the pivot mounts, and a load deck mounted to the front wheel frame and having openings through which the pivot mounts extend.