Motorized Mower Discharge Deflector for Hands-On Trajectory Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional mower discharge deflectors are inflexible, slow to adjust, require operators to release controls, and are not easily retrofittable to existing designs, limiting their functionality and safety.

Innovation Solution

A motorized adjustable discharge deflector system actuated by a user-operated switch, comprising a base, swing bracket, and motorized output shaft, allowing for rapid and safe repositioning of the discharge deflector without needing to release mower controls, and designed for easy retrofitting to various mower models.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed discharge deflector is used, then the mower structure is simple and robust, but the discharge trajectory cannot be adjusted

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadjustability of discharge trajectoryVSAvoidcomplexity of discharge deflector system

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the fixed discharge deflector into a movable one. The deflector is mounted on a pivot point and can be rotated between multiple positions (discharge positions, mulching positions, and intermediate positions) to dynamically adjust the discharge trajectory according to different operating conditions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements multi-functionality by designing a single discharge deflector system that can perform multiple functions: side discharge, mulching, and intermediate discharge modes. This universal design allows the mower to adapt to various operating scenarios without requiring multiple separate components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a lever-adjustable discharge deflector is used, then the discharge trajectory can be changed, but the adjustment is slow and requires releasing mower controls

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadjustability of discharge trajectoryVSAvoidspeed of adjustment

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the manual lever-adjustment mechanical system with an automated motor-driven system. The motor receives electrical signals from a control switch to automatically rotate the discharge deflector to the desired position, eliminating the need for manual lever operation and significantly improving adjustment speed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements self-service by automatically positioning the discharge deflector based on control switch inputs. The motorized mechanism autonomously performs the adjustment operation without requiring direct manual manipulation of the deflector itself, allowing operators to maintain control of the mower while making adjustments.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If a lever-adjustable discharge deflector is used, then the discharge trajectory can be changed, but the operator must release controls which compromises safety

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadjustability of discharge trajectoryVSAvoidoperator safety

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary control switch that allows the operator to indirectly control the discharge deflector position without directly manipulating the deflector mechanism. This intermediary control system enables adjustments to be made while maintaining hand-on-controls operation, thereby preserving safety.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Ease of manufacture

If a fixed discharge deflector is used, then the structure is robust, but it cannot be easily retrofitted to existing mowers

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveretrofitability to existing mowersVSAvoidadjustability of discharge trajectory

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the adjustable discharge deflector system into separate modular components: the deflector itself, the mounting bracket with pivot points, the motor assembly, and the control switch. This modular segmentation allows the system to be easily assembled and disassembled, facilitating retrofitting to existing mower models without requiring complete system replacement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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

The motorized system provides faster, safer, and more robust adjustment of discharge trajectories, enabling mulching and debris control without compromising operator safety or mower operation, and can be easily adapted to different mower designs.

Implementation Method 1

The motor is attached to the base and comprises a rotating output shaft

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS11910746B2Apparatus for controlling discharge from a mower

Publication Date: 2024.02.27 RICHARDS JEREMIAH J

AI summary

Assemblies allowing a repositionable discharge deflector to be added to a mower with a discharge chute are described. These assemblies include a base, a swing bracket, a discharge deflector, a motor, and a switch. The base is attached to the mower, and the motor is attached to the base and includes a rotating output shaft. The swing bracket is rotationally attached to the base and is rotationally coupled to the rotating output shaft of the motor. The discharge deflector is attached to the swing bracket and positionable via rotation of the rotating output shaft so as to at least partially block the discharge chute of the mower. The switch is in electrical communication with the motor and is able to cause the motor to rotate the rotating output shaft. The assemblies allow a user to modify the trajectory of mown material discharged from the discharge chute of the mower with a push of the switch.