Ground-Working Implement With Tool Carousel for Surface Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ground-working implements for grounds maintenance vehicles often have limited capabilities and require time-consuming tool changes to adapt to varying ground conditions, lacking versatility and efficiency in surface manipulation.
Innovation Solution
A ground-working implement with a multi-tool carousel and pivot mechanism, allowing operators to select and orient tools based on surface conditions, and adjust the implement's position relative to the ground, enhancing versatility and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single ground-working tool is used on the implement, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different ground conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The implement features a carousel mechanism that holds multiple ground-working tools (such as graders, box blades, and field groomers) in a rotatable array. The operator can rotate the carousel to bring different tools into the working position, allowing a single implement to perform multiple ground-working functions. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by enabling adaptability to various ground conditions while maintaining a unified implement structure rather than requiring separate implements for each tool type.
Solution Approach 2:
The ground-working tools are segmented into discrete units mounted on the carousel, with each tool being independently selectable. This segmentation allows the system to switch between different tool configurations based on ground conditions, achieving versatility without permanently integrating all tools into a single complex structure. The modular carousel design enables selective deployment of tool functions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple ground-working tools are integrated into a single implement, then the adaptability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The implement incorporates a dynamically rotatable carousel that allows the operator to change the working tool in real-time based on ground conditions. Rather than having all tools stationary or fixed, the carousel enables dynamic selection and positioning of tools. This dynamic mechanism provides versatility while keeping the overall implement structure relatively simple compared to having all tools permanently integrated or requiring multiple separate implements.
Solution Approach 2:
The carousel acts as an intermediary mechanism between the implement frame and multiple ground-working tools. It provides a standardized interface and mounting system that simplifies the integration of various tools, allowing them to be swapped through a single rotational operation rather than requiring complex individual mounting mechanisms for each tool. This intermediary structure manages the complexity of having multiple tools while maintaining ease of operation.
3Productivity
If tool changes are required to adapt to varying ground conditions, then the device complexity is reduced, but the productivity deteriorates due to time-consuming tool changes
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple ground-working tools are pre-mounted on the carousel in ready positions before operation begins. The operator can rotate the carousel to bring the appropriate pre-positioned tool into the working position without requiring tool changes during operation. This preliminary arrangement of tools eliminates the need for time-consuming tool removal and attachment, as all tools are already integrated into the implement's carousel system and can be selected through simple rotation.
Solution Approach 2:
The carousel mechanism enables continuous operation by allowing seamless transition between different ground-working tools without interrupting the overall workflow. While one tool is working, another can be positioned on the carousel for immediate use, ensuring that the implement remains productive throughout the operation. This continuous action capability resolves the productivity loss that would occur with traditional tool changing methods.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the implement position is fixed relative to the ground surface, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different ground conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The implement incorporates a pivot mechanism that allows the implement frame to rotate or pivot relative to the vehicle chassis, enabling dynamic adjustment of the implement's angle and position relative to the ground surface. This dynamic positioning capability allows the operator to adapt the implement's orientation to match varying ground conditions, such as slopes or uneven surfaces, while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical pivot structure rather than requiring complex active control systems.
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments of a ground working implement and a grounds maintenance vehicle that includes such implement are disclosed. The ground-working implement includes an implement frame and a tool carousel rotatably connected to the implement frame. The tool carousel includes a shaft and first and second operator-selectable ground-working tools extending outwardly from the shaft. The shaft extends along a carousel axis. The tool carousel is configured to rotate about the carousel axis and alternately lock in a first position, where the first ground-working tool is configured to contact a ground surface, and a second position, where the second ground-working tool is configured to contact the ground surface.