Adjustable Mower Implement Rake Angle for Cut Quality and Runtime
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ground working vehicles, such as lawn mowers, face challenges in adjusting the angle of the implement relative to the ground, which affects energy use and quality of cut, often requiring multiple people and tools, and is a cumbersome process.
Innovation Solution
A ground working vehicle with an implement angle selection tool that includes an angle lever and stopper to pivotally adjust the elevation of the implement end, allowing for manual or automatic adjustment of the rake angle, and a controller that automatically adjusts the implement based on torque and energy consumption data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual adjustment of implement angle is performed using traditional methods, then the implement angle can be changed, but the process requires multiple people and tools and takes significant time
Solution Approach 1:
The implement angle adjustment mechanism transitions from a static, manual process requiring multiple people to a dynamic, single-operator system using a lever-based quick-adjust mechanism that enables rapid angle changes without requiring multiple operators or tools
Solution Approach 2:
A lever mechanism is introduced as an intermediary tool between the operator and the implement angle adjustment system, providing mechanical advantage that enables single-person operation and significantly reduces the time required to change implement angles
2Use of energy by moving object
If the implement angle is adjusted to optimize cutting quality, then energy consumption changes, but the adjustment process is cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables dynamic adjustment of implement angle to optimize energy consumption for different cutting conditions, using a lever-based mechanism that makes these adjustments quick and easy rather than cumbersome
Solution Approach 2:
The implement angle parameter can be changed to optimize energy consumption and cutting quality, with the lever mechanism enabling rapid adjustment between different angle settings without time-consuming procedures
3Reliability
If traditional manual fasteners are used to secure implement height, then the implement weight provides securing force, but angle adjustment remains cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains reliable connection security through the implement weight acting on the fastener while introducing a separate lever-based mechanism for quick angle adjustment, decoupling the security function from the adjustment difficulty
Data Source
AI summary
A ground working vehicle having a vehicle frame is disclosed. An implement is coupled to the vehicle frame and extends between a first implement end and a second implement end. The implement is adjusted to alter the rake angle between the first and second implement ends, to modify internal dimensions of the implement, and/or to include a kick-down baffle. Further, the implement may be adjusted manually, remotely, or automatically. For example, one or more actuators can be coupled to the implement to adjust as desired by the user. Further, one or more controllers can automatically adjust the implement. Specifically, the implement is adjusted to optimize operating parameters such as, e.g., runtime of the vehicle and/or quality of cut.