Remote Controlled Hybrid Snow Thrower with Electric Drive and Wireless Chute Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing snow throwers require manual operation, making them cumbersome and difficult to use, especially for disabled or physically weak individuals, as they need to be manually propelled and controlled while exposing the operator to harsh weather conditions and potential slipping hazards.
Innovation Solution
A remote-controlled hybrid snow thrower equipped with electric motors and a control unit that allows wireless operation via a handheld device, enabling remote control of the snow thrower's movement and snow discharge chute orientation, along with an option for manual operation when needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operation is used to control snow thrower speed and direction, then the operator can directly control the machine, but the operator is exposed to harsh weather conditions and physical strain
Solution Approach 1:
A remote control device serves as an intermediary between the operator and the snow thrower. The operator controls the snow thrower from a remote location using wireless communication signals, eliminating direct exposure to harsh weather conditions while maintaining full control over machine operations including speed, direction, and chute positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical control system with electronic controls and wireless communication. Instead of mechanical linkages and cables that require direct operator contact, the system uses electronic sensors, processors, and wireless signals to transmit control commands from the remote device to the snow thrower's drive system and discharge mechanism.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual propulsion is required for the snow thrower, then the machine can be moved flexibly, but physically weak or disabled individuals cannot operate it
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical propulsion with an electric motor-driven system. The electric motor receives power from a battery pack and drives the snow thrower through a drive system, eliminating the need for manual physical effort while maintaining flexible maneuverability. The remote control device allows anyone, regardless of physical strength, to operate the machine.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the power source parameter from manual human power to electric power. By introducing an electric motor and battery pack, the system transforms the propulsion mechanism from dependent on operator physical capability to dependent on electrical energy storage, thereby expanding accessibility to disabled or physically weak individuals.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the snow discharge chute direction is manually switched multiple times, then the snow can be directed to different areas, but the operation becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual chute repositioning with an electrically actuated positioning system. Motors or actuators receive electronic signals from the remote control device to automatically adjust the discharge chute angle and direction, eliminating the need for manual switching and significantly reducing the time required to redirect snow to different areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The remote control device allows the operator to pre-position the discharge chute in the desired direction before initiating snow throwing. The operator can adjust the chute angle and orientation in advance, so when snow removal begins, the machine is already configured for optimal discharge, eliminating time loss during operation.
4Ease of operation
If electric motors are added for remote control operation, then the snow thrower becomes accessible to disabled individuals, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the electric motor system to serve multiple functions: it provides propulsion for remote control operation, enables flexible maneuvering, and can be integrated with the existing drive system. The battery pack serves dual purposes as both power source for the motor and energy storage for the control system, reducing overall component count and simplifying the added complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the electric motor propulsion system with the existing mechanical drive system of the snow thrower. The motor's output is integrated into the transmission and drive mechanisms already present in the machine, combining electrical and mechanical systems into a unified propulsion architecture rather than adding separate independent 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
Enables safe and efficient snow removal from a distance, reducing operator effort and exposure to harsh weather, making it accessible for individuals who cannot manually operate traditional snow throwers.
Implementation Method 1
one or more electric motors mounted to the frame structure and operatively coupled to the plurality of drive wheels or drive tracks, the one or more electric motors being configured and arranged to drive the plurality of drive wheels or drive tracks
Data Source
AI summary
A gasoline powered walk behind snow removal device modified to include drive motors and a linear actuator controlled snow discharge chute to provide a remote controlled snow removal device. The modification includes a control unit mounted to the handle or frame structure to remotely control the snow removal device using a hand held wireless system. The drive includes a single piece mounting bracket or pair of mounting brackets fastened to the frame structure. The mounting brackets receive a pair of motor brackets and motors to drive a first drive wheel and a second drive wheel disposed on opposing sides of the frame structure.