Modular Hitch and Electric Mower Deck for Toolless Attachment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hitch and implement systems for powersports vehicles are cumbersome and difficult to attach and detach, especially for large and heavy implements like mowers, and lack efficient power distribution and control mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A modular hitch system with self-centering capabilities, detachable from vehicles without tools, and connectable to various implements, featuring an electrical actuator for precise positioning and a single modular electric motor unit that can be easily attached and removed, along with a suspension system for the mower deck providing two degrees of freedom and easy maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional hitch and implement systems are used for powersports vehicles, then the implements can be connected to the vehicle, but the attachment and detachment process becomes cumbersome and difficult, especially for large and heavy implements
Solution Approach 1:
The hitch system is divided into separate modular components including a hitch receiver, coupling mechanism, and implement interface. This segmentation allows each component to be independently optimized and facilitates tool-free attachment and detachment by enabling sequential engagement and disengagement of modular elements without requiring complex manual manipulation of a monolithic structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism incorporates dynamic elements such as movable latches, adjustable positioning features, and self-aligning components that adapt during the attachment process. These dynamic features enable the heavy implement to be securely connected through simplified user actions, reducing the operational effort required while maintaining connection reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the motor is integrated permanently into the implement, then the implement can be powered, but the motor becomes difficult to remove and install on different implements
Solution Approach 1:
The motor is designed as a self-contained modular unit with integrated mounting features, electrical connections, and mechanical interfaces. This segmentation allows the motor to be detached as a complete assembly from the implement without requiring disassembly of the motor itself or complex field modifications, enabling easy transfer between different implements while maintaining full functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The motor unit incorporates universal mounting interfaces and standardized connection points that enable the same motor assembly to be installed on multiple different implement types. This universality is achieved through adaptable mounting brackets, universal electrical connectors, and standardized mechanical couplings that work across various implement configurations without requiring custom modifications.
3Ease of operation
If the motor is mounted on the implement, then the implement can be powered, but the weight of the motor affects the positioning and handling of the implement
Solution Approach 1:
The hitch system incorporates dynamic positioning capabilities with adjustable height, angle, and lateral position features that allow the implement (including its motor) to be positioned optimally during operation. These dynamic adjustments compensate for the motor's weight by enabling real-time balancing and positioning, reducing the impact of the heavy motor on implement handling and positioning accuracy.
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
Facilitates convenient and efficient attachment and detachment of implements, precise control, and reduced weight distribution of the motor, enhancing operational flexibility and ease of maintenance while minimizing the impact of the motor's weight on implement positioning.
Implementation Method 1
an electrical actuator mounted to the hitch frame and in electrical connection with the electrical interface, the electrical actuator configured to convert electrical power received from the power source to mechanical movement of the modular hitch device
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
An implement system for powersport vehicles (100) have implements (124) attachable to the powersport vehicles (100). The implements (124) have a modular electric motor unit that may be toollessly attached to the implement providing operational power to the implement (124). A mower implement has a mower deck and a suspension assembly that provides a forward rearward pivot axis and a left right pivot axis when hitched to the powersport vehicle. A receiving region for the electric motor unit is positioned in the suspension assembly. The mower deck may be rotated about the left right pivot axis to an upright position and latched at the position. The single motor in the receiving region connecting to three mower blade pulleys for rotating three mower blades by the one electric motor unit utilizing a pulley system.