Zero-Turn Mower Steering via Armrest Hand Displacement Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing electric-driven standing zero-turn mowers require operators to frequently switch hands between control levers for direction changes, leading to instability and balance issues during operation.
Innovation Solution
A mower design with a supporting part for both hands, equipped with detection components and a controller that interprets hand movements to control speed and steering, allowing for convenient and safe operation through simple hand gestures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the operator uses traditional control levers for direction changes, then the steering function is achieved, but the operator experiences hand switching and balance instability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the steering control function into the existing armrest structure. The operating part is integrated with the supporting part (armrest), allowing the operator to control direction without releasing or switching hands from the armrest. This combination eliminates the need for hand switching between separate control levers and the armrest, maintaining balance stability while achieving steering functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The armrest structure is given multiple functions: it serves as both the supporting structure for the operator's arms and as the steering control mechanism. The operating part integrated with the armrest allows the same structure to provide both support and control functions, eliminating the need for separate control levers that would require hand switching.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate left and right control levers are used for zero-turn steering, then turning control is achieved, but the operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines both left and right steering controls into a single integrated operating part structure. Instead of having separate control levers for left and right sides, the operating part is integrated with the supporting part, allowing unified control of both driving wheels from a single structure, thereby reducing operational complexity while maintaining full steering capability.
3Reliability
If the operator must hold armrests with both hands for balance, then stability is maintained, but the ability to operate control levers is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control function into the armrest itself, so the operator can control the mower's direction without releasing or moving hands from the armrest. The operating part is integrated with the supporting part, allowing simultaneous maintenance of balance (by holding armrests) and execution of steering commands (through the integrated control mechanism).
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 design maintains operator balance and stability by enabling control with small amplitude hand movements, enhancing convenience and safety in maneuvering the mower.
Implementation Method 1
the detection component is a potentiometer sensor which can generate different displacements and output corresponding voltage values according to the amplitude of the hand operation
Data Source
AI summary
A mower includes a main body, a supporting part, and an operating part. The main body includes at least one driving wheel and a motor and the motor drives the driving wheel to move. The supporting part is connected to the main body for the operator to hold with both hands. The operating part is used to adjust the rotation speed and/or steering of the motor, the operating part is connected to the supporting part, and the operating part is configured to be operated when the operator holds the supporting part.