Moldboard Lighting Integration for Snowplow Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing moldboard systems face issues with instability and inadequate illumination due to separate lighting stands, and cumbersome towing and powering processes that create awkward angles and safety hazards.
Innovation Solution
Integration of vehicle lighting, towing, and powering systems directly into the moldboard, with lighting positioned at the same elevation and orientation as vehicle lights, towing apertures on the moldboard wings, and powering systems that provide direct access to the vehicle battery without opening the hood.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If lighting is positioned on a lighting stand extending above the vehicle, then illumination coverage is improved, but stability and vibration resistance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the lighting system with the moldboard structure itself, integrating lights into the moldboard wings and central section rather than using separate lighting stands. This merging eliminates the instability caused by extended light stands while maintaining adequate illumination coverage through strategically positioned lights on the moldboard structure.
2Ease of operation
If towing connection is made behind the moldboard, then connection simplicity is improved, but towing angle and operational efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a new dimension to towing operations by providing both vertical (above moldboard) and horizontal (on moldboard wings) towing apertures. This multi-dimensional approach allows operators to choose the most efficient connection point based on the situation, optimizing both ease of connection and towing angle simultaneously.
3Reliability
If jumper cable access requires opening the hood, then safety is improved, but access time and operational efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power access function from the hood compartment by providing dedicated power apertures on the moldboard wings. This segmentation allows jumper cable connection to be performed independently of hood opening, maintaining safety through controlled access points while dramatically reducing access time by eliminating the hood opening step.
4Adaptability or versatility
If vehicle lighting system is separate from moldboard, then lighting functionality is improved, but integration and vibration resistance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the moldboard structure universal by integrating multiple functions directly into it: structural support, lighting mounting, towing connection, and power access. This multi-functionality approach maintains full lighting functionality while reducing overall system complexity by eliminating separate mounting structures and access points.
Data Source
AI summary
A moldboard utility system enhances the features of a moldboard, or snowplow on a vehicle by integrating known vehicle components into different sections of the moldboard. Lighting, towing, and powering components commonly found on a vehicle are integrated into the moldboard. A moldboard lighting system includes headlights, turn signal lights, fog lights, spot lights, light emitting diodes, and emergency lights. The lights integrate directly into the various sections of the moldboard. For example, a headlight positions in a central section of the moldboard, directing an illumination onto the roadway. Turn signal lights attach to a pair of wings on the moldboard. The moldboard lighting system positions onto the moldboard in substantially the same elevation and orientation as vehicle lighting. A towing system integrates into the moldboard, enabling a tow line to attach to the moldboard or vehicle tow hook. A powering system integrates into the moldboard, providing access to power.