Mower Side Discharge Chute Assembly with Dual Deflector Liner
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mower side discharge chute assemblies are ineffective at reducing the speed and angle of projectiles struck by rotary cutting blades at high blade tip speeds, leading to safety concerns and reduced grass cutting performance.
Innovation Solution
A mower side discharge chute assembly comprising an outer deflector chute and an inner discharge chute, where the inner chute has a lower density liner attached to its end, both pivotably mounted over the side discharge opening, allowing for independent positioning to manage grass clippings effectively at high blade tip speeds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If mowing is performed at high blade tip speeds to improve grass cutting performance, then cutting efficiency and clipping dispersal are improved, but projectile speed and safety hazards increase
Solution Approach 1:
The side discharge chute is divided into two separate components: an outer deflector chute and an inner discharge chute. The outer chute handles high-speed projectiles at high angles, while the inner chute manages lower-speed clippings, allowing each component to be optimized for its specific function and improving overall safety without reducing cutting performance
Solution Approach 2:
The outer deflector chute acts as an intermediary between the high-speed blade environment and the discharge area. It intercepts and deflects high-speed projectiles away from the discharge opening, reducing the speed and angle of objects that reach the inner discharge chute and final discharge point
2Strength
If a single solid chute assembly is used to deflect projectiles, then structural strength is sufficient, but grass clippings build up and airflow is blocked at high blade tip speeds
Solution Approach 1:
Different portions of the discharge system have different material properties optimized for their specific functions. The outer deflector chute uses solid, durable material for strength and projectile deflection, while the inner discharge chute uses a lighter, lower-density material that reduces clipping buildup and improves airflow through the discharge area
Solution Approach 2:
The discharge chute system combines two different materials with different densities and properties. The outer chute uses a solid, high-strength material for structural integrity and projectile deflection, while the inner chute uses a lighter material that facilitates clipping flow and air movement, creating a composite system that achieves both strength and productivity
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the discharge chute is mounted to extend far over the side discharge opening, then projectile deflection is improved, but the chute becomes more susceptible to damage and harder to protect
Solution Approach 1:
The discharge chute is segmented into an outer deflector portion that extends far over the opening for maximum projectile deflection, and an inner discharge portion that is shorter and more protected. This segmentation allows the outer portion to perform its deflection function while the inner portion maintains durability and structural reliability
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 solution enables safe and efficient management of grass clippings at high blade tip speeds, preventing clippings from building up and improving airflow, while ensuring safety by reducing the speed and angle of projectiles, thus enhancing mowing performance.
Implementation Method 1
The liner has a lower density than the outer deflector chute
Implementation Method 2
direct the flow of objects down at a safe angle
Data Source
AI summary
A mower side discharge chute assembly includes. an outer deflector chute pivotably mounted to a mower deck, an inner discharge chute pivotably mounted to the mower deck under the outer deflector chute, and a liner attached to the inner discharge chute and having a lower density than the outer deflector chute. A hinge with a torsion spring independently biases the outer deflector chute and the inner discharge chute from a raised position to an outwardly extending position over a side discharge opening through a top of the mower deck and a skirt on a side of the mower deck.