Ground-Working Tool Carousel for Fast Surface Condition Changes
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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 incorporates multiple ground-working tools (e.g., chain drag, disc drag, power harrow, spike aerator) that can be selectively positioned at the working end, allowing a single device to perform multiple ground preparation functions depending on the specific conditions of the playing surface, thereby achieving universality without requiring separate specialized implements
Solution Approach 2:
The tools are positioned on a carousel mechanism that allows dynamic reconfiguration - the operator can rotate and position different tools at the working end based on real-time assessment of ground conditions, transforming a static single-function implement into a dynamic multi-function system
2Adaptability or versatility
If tool changes are required to adapt to varying ground conditions, then the adaptability improves, but the productivity deteriorates due to time-consuming tool changes
Solution Approach 1:
The carousel mechanism enables dynamic tool selection during operation - the operator can rotate the carousel to bring different tools into the working position without stopping the vehicle or performing time-consuming tool changes, maintaining continuous productivity while adapting to varying ground conditions
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple tools are pre-positioned on the carousel in advance, so when a different ground condition is encountered, the appropriate tool is already available and can be quickly rotated into position without requiring tool changes or preparation time
3Adaptability or versatility
If the implement is fixed in position, then the ease of operation is improved, but the adaptability to different working depths and angles deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The implement incorporates pivot mechanisms that allow dynamic adjustment of the implement's angle and depth relative to the ground surface, enabling the operator to adapt to different working conditions while maintaining straightforward control through hydraulic or mechanical actuation 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.