Plow Down Pressure Linkage with Float Function
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing snow plows for vehicles, particularly utility vehicles, face challenges in applying sufficient downward force to remove heavy snow and ice, often resulting in the plow floating over the surface instead of effectively clearing it, and struggle with back dragging due to insufficient pressure.
Innovation Solution
A plow system incorporating a down pressure linkage and a coil over gas shock assembly that applies a downward force to the plow blade while allowing upward movement, enabling efficient snow removal and back dragging by distributing the weight of the vehicle and providing adjustable downward pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a flexible strap is used to connect the lift arm assembly to the plow, then the plow system allows easy movement and adjustment, but the flexible strap does not provide any downward force to the plow blade
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into two separate functional components: a flexible strap for movement and adjustment, and a rigid down pressure linkage for applying downward force. This segmentation allows each component to specialize in its intended function without compromise.
Solution Approach 2:
The down pressure linkage acts as an intermediary mechanical element between the lift arm assembly and the plow blade, transferring and amplifying downward force while the flexible strap maintains operational flexibility. The intermediary component resolves the conflict between flexibility and force application.
2Device complexity
If the plow relies only on its weight and gravity to apply downward force, then the plow system is simple in structure, but the downward force is insufficient to remove heavy snow and ice
Solution Approach 1:
The down pressure linkage is designed as a dynamic mechanical advantage system that can adjust and amplify downward force based on operational conditions. The linkage mechanism transforms the vehicle's weight into increased downward pressure on the plow blade through lever arms and pivot points.
Solution Approach 2:
The down pressure linkage system is nested within the existing lift arm assembly structure, integrating force multiplication capabilities into the conventional plow mounting system without requiring a completely separate external mechanism.
3Force
If the plow blade is designed to apply heavy downward pressure, then the plow can effectively remove heavy snow and ice, but the plow blade cannot easily move upward when encountering obstacles
Solution Approach 1:
The down pressure linkage incorporates dynamic characteristics that allow it to rigidly transmit downward force during normal operation but become compliant when upward force is applied. The mechanical linkage can pivot and yield when the plow blade encounters obstacles, enabling easy upward movement while maintaining downward pressure during plowing.
Solution Approach 2:
The stiffness and force transmission characteristics of the down pressure linkage change based on the direction of applied force. The system provides high downward force resistance while allowing upward movement when needed, effectively changing its mechanical parameters based on operational conditions.
4Force
If the plow uses a rigid connection to apply downward force, then sufficient downward pressure is provided, but upward forces from obstacles cannot be absorbed
Solution Approach 1:
The down pressure linkage is designed with built-in compliance and force absorption capabilities that prepare the system for unexpected upward forces from obstacles. The mechanical linkage can yield and absorb impact forces before they reach critical levels, protecting the plow blade and mounting structure from damage.
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 effectively clears heavy snow and ice without floating, enhances the plow's ability to remove snow from areas like garage doors, and increases the longevity of the plow by absorbing upward forces, ensuring efficient operation and protection from obstacles.
Implementation Method 1
A coil over gas shock is coupled to the plow frame assembly. The coil over gas shock applies a downward force to the plow blade upon the plow blade engaging a surface, while simultaneously allowing the plow blade to move upward upon an upward force being applied to the plow blade while engaging the surface.
Implementation Method 2
The coil over gas shock applies a downward force to the plow blade upon the plow blade engaging a surface, while simultaneously allowing the plow blade to move upward upon an upward force being applied to the plow blade while engaging the surface.
Data Source
AI summary
A down pressure plow system with a float function is disclosed for use in a vehicle. The plow system includes a plow frame assembly and a plow blade carried by the plow blade assembly. An actuator is configured to move the plow blade up and down. A down pressure linkage is coupled to the plow frame assembly. The down pressure linkage applies a downward force to the plow blade upon actuating the actuator to move the plow blade and simultaneously allows the plow blade to move upward upon an upward force being applied to the plow blade.