Riding Mower Transaxle Suspension for Shock and Vibration Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing suspension systems for riding mowers fail to adequately address operator discomfort and stability issues, particularly when navigating rough terrain, leading to potential loss of control and injury.
Innovation Solution
A suspension system utilizing transaxles with damping pillows made of resilient material positioned between the frame and wheels, allowing independent movement of each wheel to absorb shock and vibrations, thereby reducing transmission of terrain irregularities to the operator.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If wheels are affixed directly to the frame, then structural simplicity is maintained, but operator comfort and stability deteriorate due to constant bouncing and jarring on rough terrain
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid connection between wheels and frame is segmented by introducing independent suspension assemblies. Each wheel is mounted on a separate transaxle assembly that can move independently relative to the frame, allowing each wheel to respond to terrain irregularities separately while maintaining overall structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
Damping pillows are introduced as intermediary elements between the transaxles and the frame. These pillows act as mediators that absorb and dampen vibrations and shocks transmitted from the wheels to the frame, reducing the harmful effects reaching the operator while maintaining structural connection
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a suspension system with transaxles and damping pillows is implemented, then operator comfort and stability improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transaxle assemblies serve multiple functions: they provide both the suspension mechanism through their movable mounting on the frame and simultaneously serve as the power transmission system to drive the wheels. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate suspension components, thereby limiting the increase in overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The damping pillows utilize changes in material properties under load - their damping characteristics change as they compress under vibration and shock loads. This passive parameter change provides automatic adaptation to varying terrain conditions without requiring complex active control systems
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 enhances operator comfort, stability, and safety by effectively dampening vibrations and maintaining control on uneven terrain, reducing fatigue and the risk of accidents.
Implementation Method 1
at least one pillow interposed between the frame the wheel with each pillow being of a resilient material for absorbing shock and vibration
Data Source
AI summary
In a riding mower having a frame, a mower deck supported beneath the frame, a chair on said frame and a source of motive power also supported on said frame and including two hydraulic transaxles depending beneath the frame to each selectively rotate a drive wheel. The frame is supported on forward and rear wheel assemblies with a supporting wheel. The transaxles are supported beneath the frame and pivotally secured thereto by a flange captivating vibration pillows and proximate the driven wheel and an inner pivot rod secured to the frame by apertures in downwardly depending tabs.