Turf Mower Hydraulic Lift Control for Deck Descent and Float
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing turf mower cutting deck hydraulic lift systems are limited by fixed hydraulic fluid flow restrictions, which either result in poor terrain contour following or turf damage due to inappropriate descent rates of the cutting implements.
Innovation Solution
An electro-hydraulic flow control system that selectively regulates hydraulic fluid flow using an electromechanical system with a control module to manage the movement of cutting implements, allowing for controlled descent and unrestricted floating during mowing, improving terrain contour following.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a more restrictive hydraulic fluid flow control orifice is used, then lowering performance is improved (slower descent rate), but terrain contour following capability deteriorates (slower response to ground contour changes)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the fixed orifice with a dynamic flow control system using electro-hydraulic valves (proportional relief valve, counterbalance valve) that can adjust flow restriction in real-time based on operational requirements, enabling both controlled lowering and rapid terrain contour following when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the flow control parameter dynamically by adjusting valve openings and pressure settings based on operational mode (lowering vs. terrain following), allowing optimization of both descent rate control and response speed to terrain variations
2Speed
If a less restrictive hydraulic fluid flow control orifice is used, then terrain contour following capability is improved (faster response to terrain changes), but lowering performance deteriorates (too fast descent rate)
Solution Approach 1:
The electro-hydraulic valve system dynamically adjusts flow restriction levels, providing minimal restriction for rapid terrain contour following while maintaining sufficient control during lowering operations, eliminating the need for a permanently restrictive orifice
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from operational conditions to automatically adjust flow control, enabling the cutting implement to self-regulate between controlled lowering and free terrain following based on real-time needs
3Manufacturing precision
If continuous hydraulic fluid flow control is used, then lowering performance is improved, but cutting performance deteriorates (poor terrain contour following)
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies flow control periodically or selectively based on operational phase - using restriction during lowering operations and eliminating it during terrain contour following phases, rather than maintaining continuous restriction
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 system enables precise control over the descent and floating of cutting implements, enhancing turf cutting performance by ensuring even cuts and minimizing turf damage across varying terrain.
Implementation Method 1
a hydraulic pump fluidly connected to the tank and the actuator and structured and operable to pump hydraulic fluid from the tank to the actuator
Implementation Method 2
a hydraulic actuator connected to the cutting implement and structured and operable to raise and lower the cutting implement
Implementation Method 3
an electromechanical fluid flow control system structured and operable to control a flow of the hydraulic fluid through the hydraulic system
Data Source
AI summary
An electro-hydraulic flow control system for controlling the movement of a cutting implement of a turf mower. The flow control system comprises a hydraulic system for raising and lowering the cutting implement. The hydraulic system comprises a hydraulic fluid, a hydraulic actuator, and a hydraulic pump. The control system additionally comprises an electromechanical fluid flow control system for controlling a flow of the hydraulic fluid through the hydraulic system. The electromechanical fluid control system comprises a routing valve, a float valve, a weight transfer valve, a weight transfer pressure adjustment (WTPA) valve, and a control module for control operation of the routing valve, the float valve, the weight transfer valve, and the WTPA valve to control operation of the actuator and thereby control movement of the cutting implement.