Modular Network System for Lawnmower Wiring Complexity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing utility vehicle propulsion systems, such as zero turn radius lawnmowers, face challenges in energy efficiency and complexity in wiring multiple electrical components, leading to cumbersome wiring harnesses and inflexibility in accommodating new electronic components.
Innovation Solution
A network system that inter-operatively couples electronic components using processors with ports, allowing direct communication and power transfer between components without the need for a separate controller, simplifying wiring and enabling flexibility for added components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hard wiring with conductors is used to couple electrical components, then reliability and cost-effectiveness are improved, but wiring complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the wiring system into modular segments where each electrical component has standardized ports. Conductors are segmented into manageable sections that can be independently routed and connected, reducing overall wiring complexity while maintaining reliability through modular assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universal standardized ports that can accommodate multiple types of electrical connections and component configurations. This multi-functional interface allows different components to be interconnected using the same connector type, significantly reducing wiring complexity and installation difficulty while maintaining system reliability
2Reliability
If a large number of wires are used to connect multiple components, then communication and power delivery between components are ensured, but wiring harness size and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The communication and power networks are segmented into hierarchical levels with main backbone connections and local branch connections. This allows installation to proceed in manageable stages, improving ease of operation while ensuring reliable communication through structured network architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces standardized connector interfaces as intermediaries between components and wiring systems. These intermediaries simplify the connection process, making installation easier while ensuring reliable electrical and communication connections through standardized contact interfaces
3Reliability
If traditional wired control systems are used, then power and communication are reliably transmitted, but system flexibility and adaptability to new components are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universal standardized ports that can accommodate multiple component types and configurations. This allows the system to easily adapt to new components while maintaining reliable power and communication transmission through consistent interface standards
Solution Approach 2:
The wiring system is designed with dynamic configurability, allowing connections to be easily added, removed, or reconfigured. This dynamic approach enables system adaptability to new components while maintaining reliable transmissions through standardized reconnectable interfaces
Data Source
AI summary
A network system is disclosed for use on a utility vehicle to connect multiple electronic components, such as input devices such as joysticks or similar mechanisms, motor controllers, sensors, switches, gauges and the like. The network system provides flexibility in the manner and order in which each of the components are connected while permitting each component to communicate with certain other components even when such components are not directly linked together.