Landscaping blower nozzle assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing leaf and debris blowers face challenges in maneuverability and airflow directionality, particularly when used in larger units that are difficult to operate due to their size and distance from the operator, leading to inefficiencies in debris removal and potential damage from contact with objects or uneven terrain.
Innovation Solution
A moveable nozzle assembly with a flexible elbow, adjustable rotation, and breakaway coupling, combined with a tensioning system and height adjustment, allows for 180-degree horizontal motion and 90-degree airflow direction, ensuring consistent airflow and preventing damage from contact with the ground or objects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid nozzle assembly is used, then structural strength is improved, but maneuverability and airflow directionality deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle assembly is divided into multiple segments including a rigid distal portion and a flexible proximal portion (elbow), allowing the rigid section to maintain structural strength while the flexible section provides maneuverability. The gear assembly further segments the control mechanism into discrete rotational components.
Solution Approach 2:
The elbow portion is designed with flexible material that allows dynamic bending and movement, enabling the nozzle to change direction adaptively. The gear assembly provides controlled rotational movement, transforming the static rigid structure into a dynamically adjustable system.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the nozzle is fixed in position, then structural stability is improved, but airflow directionality and adaptability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The gear assembly enables controlled rotational movement of the elbow, allowing the nozzle to adapt its airflow direction while maintaining stable structural connections. The flexible elbow provides passive adaptability through material elasticity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the directional parameters of airflow through gear-controlled rotation and flexible elbow bending, allowing the same structural assembly to achieve multiple airflow orientations without compromising stability.
3Ease of operation
If a flexible elbow is used, then maneuverability is improved, but risk of deformation from contact with ground or objects increases
Solution Approach 1:
The assembly separates the flexible elbow from the rigid distal nozzle portion, confining the flexibility (and potential deformation risk) to the elbow section while protecting the critical nozzle outlet from damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The gear assembly provides controlled movement that prevents the flexible elbow from exceeding safe bending limits, and the breakaway coupling acts as a protective mechanism that prevents catastrophic damage from excessive force.
4Ease of operation
If the nozzle is positioned far from the operator, then ergonomics for prolonged use is improved, but control precision and responsiveness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The gear assembly replaces direct manual manipulation with a mechanical transmission system, allowing precise rotational control to be transmitted over distance from the operator to the nozzle with minimal loss of precision.
Data Source
AI summary
A landscaping blower nozzle assembly includes an inlet section for allowing air into the assembly, an elbow section and a motor. A nozzle is insertable into the elbow section such that the motor moves the elbow section in a moveable motion back and forth though at least 180 degree of motion for aiding the operator in the movement and removal of leaves and other debris. A breakaway coupler prevents damage to the blower nozzle when coming into contact with a rigid surface or structure. A tensioner assembly prevents distortion of the nozzle tip when subjected to high velocity air from the blower motor.