Gang Mower Lifting Unit Non-Parallel Pivot Axes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Gang-type lawn mowers face challenges in optimizing the positioning of cutting decks during transport, as existing lifting geometries do not effectively minimize width while allowing for efficient vertical and longitudinal movement.
Innovation Solution
A lifting unit comprising a yoke assembly, first arm assembly, second arm assembly, and third arm assembly, which allows for vertical and longitudinal movement of cutting decks by pivoting about non-parallel axes, enabling the cutting decks to be raised and lowered while maintaining optimal positioning for transport and operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the cutting decks are extended laterally beyond the wheels to maximize cutting width, then the cutting width is improved, but the width of the mower increases making transport difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The cutting decks are designed to be dynamically repositionable between a lowered cutting position and a raised transport position. The lifting mechanism allows the decks to move vertically, changing the mower's overall width to accommodate different operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution addresses the width problem by moving the cutting decks in the vertical dimension rather than attempting to reduce lateral extension. By lifting the decks vertically above the wheels during transport, the mower maintains its maximum cutting width capability while reducing its effective transport width.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a lifting mechanism is added to raise and lower cutting decks, then the positioning flexibility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting mechanism is segmented into multiple independent linkages, with each linkage controlling a specific cutting deck. This modular approach allows for simplified design and maintenance of each individual lifting unit while providing collective control over multiple decks.
Solution Approach 2:
The lifting linkages employ spherical pivot points and rotary joints that allow movement along curved paths. This geometric approach simplifies the mechanical design by using standardized spherical connections rather than complex multi-axis joints, reducing overall mechanism complexity.
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 allows for efficient vertical and longitudinal movement of cutting decks, optimizing their position during transport and operation, enhancing ease of use and reducing the mower's width, thereby improving usability and maneuverability.
Implementation Method 1
The first arm assembly is pivotably mounted to the vehicle frame about a first pivot axis. The second arm assembly is pivotably mounted to the first arm assembly about a second pivot axis and to the yoke assembly about a third pivot axis
Data Source
AI summary
A mower includes a frame, at least one cutting unit, and a lifting unit. The lifting unit is connected to the at least one cutting unit and includes a yoke assembly, a first arm assembly, a second arm assembly, and a third arm assembly. The yoke assembly is connected to the cutting unit. The first arm assembly is pivotably mounted to the vehicle frame about a first pivot axis. The second arm assembly is pivotably mounted to the first arm assembly about a second pivot axis and to the yoke assembly about a third pivot axis with the second pivot axis and third pivot axis being non-parallel to the first pivot axis. The third arm assembly includes a first end pivotally connected to the frame and a second end pivotally connected to the second arm assembly.