Modular Hitch and Mower Deck Pivot for Toolless Implement Swaps
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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, then implements can be attached to powersports vehicles, but the attachment and detachment process is cumbersome and difficult, especially for large and heavy implements
Solution Approach 1:
The hitch system is divided into modular components including a receiver assembly, coupling assembly, and implement-specific attachments. This segmentation allows each component to be independently manipulated and assembled, making heavy implements easier to attach and detach through a series of simpler steps rather than handling the entire assembly at once.
Solution Approach 2:
A self-centering coupling assembly acts as an intermediary between the receiver and implement. This intermediary component automatically aligns and guides the implement into proper position during attachment, reducing the manual effort required and simplifying the coupling process for heavy implements.
2Measurement precision
If actuators are added for precise positioning of the hitch and implement, then positioning accuracy is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Manual mechanical positioning operations are replaced with an electric actuator system that provides powered adjustment of the hitch assembly. This substitution eliminates the need for complex manual mechanisms while achieving precise positioning through electric motor control, reducing overall mechanical complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator system includes integrated sensors and control circuitry that automatically monitor and adjust hitch position without requiring external intervention. This self-service capability achieves precise positioning while minimizing the complexity of external control systems.
3Ease of operation
If a single modular electric motor unit is used in the mower implement, then ease of attachment and removal is improved, but the motor weight must be supported by the suspension system
Solution Approach 1:
The motor is designed as a self-contained modular unit with integrated mounting interfaces and connection points. This segmentation allows the motor to be easily attached and removed as a single component without requiring complex assembly or disassembly procedures, despite its weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The suspension system acts as an intermediary that supports the motor weight during operation and facilitates its easy removal when not in use. The suspension's mechanical design distributes and manages the motor's weight load while allowing quick detachment through its coupling mechanism.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the mower deck is made raisable and lowerable by a powered hitch device, then operational flexibility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Manual lifting and lowering operations are replaced with an electric actuator integrated into the hitch device. This powered mechanism provides automated control of the mower deck position, achieving operational flexibility through electric motor-driven adjustment rather than complex manual mechanical systems.
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
AI summary
A implement system for powersport vehicles have implements attachable to the powersport vehicles. The implements have a modular electric motor unit that may be toollessly attached to the implement providing operational power to the implement. 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.