Tool-Free Pin Mount for Landscaping Accessory Rack

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing accessory support systems for landscaping equipment are often cumbersome, require tools for installation and removal, and are not interchangeable between different types of equipment, leading to increased complexity and cost.

Innovation Solution

A support apparatus with side and lateral support members, a platform member, and a rotating support member that can be easily mounted and detached from landscaping equipment using a pin-based securement system, eliminating the need for tools and allowing for quick attachment and detachment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If accessory support systems are permanently attached to landscaping equipment, then reliability is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to permanent attachment requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment reliabilityVSAvoidinstallation and removal ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The support system transitions from a static permanent attachment to a dynamic removable attachment. The quick-attach mechanism allows the support system to be easily connected and disconnected from the landscaping equipment using simple manual operations, resolving the contradiction between reliable attachment and ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The attachment system is divided into separate components: a mounting portion on the support system and a corresponding receiving structure on the equipment. This segmentation allows for easy connection and disconnection while maintaining secure attachment during use, addressing both reliability and operational ease.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If accessory support systems are permanently attached to landscaping equipment, then reliability is improved, but device complexity worsens due to additional fasteners and tools required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment reliabilityVSAvoidfastener and tool requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The complex fastening mechanisms and tools are extracted from the attachment process. The quick-attach mechanism uses simple manual insertion and engagement without requiring wrenches, extra fasteners, or specialized tools, reducing device complexity while maintaining secure attachment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The attachment system is designed to be self-sufficient and tool-free. The mounting portion and receiving structure are configured to engage directly through simple manual operations, eliminating the need for external tools and additional fastener components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If accessory support systems use additional tools and components for installation, then reliability is improved, but loss of substance worsens due to tools being easily lost or damaged

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment reliabilityVSAvoidtool and component loss
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

External tools and additional components are completely removed from the attachment process. The quick-attach mechanism relies solely on the integrated mounting portion and receiving structure, eliminating the risk of losing or damaging separate tools and fasteners.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

4Reliability

If accessory support systems are designed for specific equipment types, then reliability is improved, but adaptability worsens due to lack of interchangeability

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment reliabilityVSAvoidequipment interchangeability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting portion and receiving structure are designed with universal compatibility across different landscaping equipment types. The standardized interface allows the same support system to be attached to various equipment, maintaining reliability through consistent engagement mechanisms while achieving broad adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS11673523B2Accessory support systems and methods for landscaping equipment
Publication Date: 2023.06.13 TURNER RICHARD
  • US11673523B2 patent drawing
  • US11673523B2 patent drawing
  • US11673523B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method of using a support accessory rack includes aligning a first mounting portion of the support accessory rack with a first pin of a rollover protective structure. The method includes aligning a second mounting portion of the support accessory rack with a second pin of a second rollover protective structure. The method includes actuating the first pin to secure the first mounting portion to the rollover protective structure. The method further includes actuating the second pin to secure the second mounting portion to the rollover protective structure. The method includes pivoting a rotating support member of the support accessory rack away from the first mounting portion and the second mounting portion, and supporting the rotating support member onto a lateral bar of the rollover protective structure.