Riding Lawnmower Steering Input Swapping With Self-Configuring Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Riding lawnmowers typically come equipped with a single type of user input for steering control, limiting user customization based on personal preference, and do not allow easy conversion between different types of user inputs.
Innovation Solution
A riding lawnmower system that allows swappable user inputs, such as lap bars and joysticks, with a controller that can self-configure to accommodate the detected input type, enabling easy conversion and customization without manual reprogramming or rewiring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single type of user input is equipped on the lawnmower, then the device complexity is reduced and manufacturing is simplified, but the adaptability to different user preferences is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal control system where a single lawnmower platform can accommodate multiple types of user inputs (joystick, lap bars, steering wheel, floor pedals) through a standardized interface. The controller is designed to recognize and adapt to different input types automatically, allowing one device to serve multiple functions and user preferences without requiring separate systems for each control type.
Solution Approach 2:
The user input system is segmented into modular, swappable components. Each input type (joystick, lap bars, etc.) is designed as a separate module that can be independently installed or removed. This segmentation allows the system to maintain simplicity while providing versatility, as each module handles a specific function and can be exchanged without affecting the core control system.
2Ease of operation
If the controller is configured to self-configure between different user input types, then the ease of operation and user customization is improved, but the device complexity increases due to automatic detection and configuration requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is designed with self-configuration capability that automatically detects the type of user input connected and configures itself accordingly. When a user swaps input modules, the controller autonomously identifies the new input type through detection circuits and adjusts its operation parameters without requiring manual programming or user intervention, making the system self-servicing in terms of adaptation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the controller continuously monitors signals from the user input to determine the input type. Based on this feedback, the controller automatically adjusts its configuration to match the detected input characteristics, enabling dynamic adaptation without user involvement in the configuration process.
Data Source
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AI summary
A riding lawnmower including: a frame; a seat supported by the frame; a cutting implement supported by the frame, the cutting implement driven by a cutting implement motor; a wheel rotatably driven by a wheel motor; a controller in electrical communication with the wheel motor to control operation of the wheel motor; a wiring harness defining a user input connector, wherein the wiring harness is in electrical communication with the controller; a user input movable in at least one direction, wherein the user input receives input from a user to affect steering control of the riding lawnmower, wherein the user input is swappable between at least two different types of user inputs, and wherein the controller is configured to self-configure between the at least two different types of user inputs.