Outdoor Power Machine Steering Lever Speed Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing outdoor power machines lack efficient speed control mechanisms, requiring operators to use different hand positions for gross and fine speed adjustments, and they often lack provisions for storing and charging personal electronic devices.
Innovation Solution
The outdoor power machine incorporates steering levers with speed control buttons that allow for seamless selection of gross speed ranges (low, medium, high) and fine speed control within those ranges, while also featuring a water-resistant storage pocket with a USB charger port for charging personal devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional separate controls for gross and fine speed regulation are used, then speed control functionality is provided, but operator complexity increases and ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines gross speed range selection and fine speed regulation into a single integrated control system. The operator uses one hand on the steering lever for fine control while a single button press on the same lever cycles through gross speed ranges (low, medium, high). This merging eliminates the need for separate controls and multiple hand positions, reducing operational complexity while maintaining full speed control functionality.
2Productivity
If traditional speed control mechanisms are used, then basic speed regulation is provided, but operator productivity deteriorates due to multiple hand positions required
Solution Approach 1:
By merging gross and fine control functions into a single interface, the system allows operators to maintain one hand on the steering lever at all times. This eliminates the need to move hands between different control locations, reducing operational steps and improving productivity while maintaining ease of operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If no electronic device storage is provided, then device simplicity is maintained, but adaptability deteriorates due to inability to charge personal devices
Solution Approach 1:
The power pack serves multiple functions: it provides electrical power for the machine's operation and simultaneously functions as a charging source for personal electronic devices through integrated USB ports. This multi-functionality increases adaptability without requiring separate charging equipment, while the added complexity is minimal since it utilizes the existing power pack infrastructure.
Data Source
AI summary
An outdoor power machine includes a chassis. The outdoor power machine also includes two or more drive wheel assemblies that are physically mounted to the chassis and one or more steer wheels. Each drive wheel assembly is coupled to an electric motor. An electric power pack is configured to supply electric energy to the electric motors. A steering lever is provided that includes a speed control button. The speed control button is configured to send a signal to a control system such that the control system sequentially selects a gross speed range.