Remotely Controlled Power Equipment Base with Dual Drive Motors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current power equipment systems lack remote control functionality, requiring manual operation and limiting their use in applications where operator presence is not feasible.
Innovation Solution
A remotely controlled power equipment system with a base that includes a pair of drive motors for wheels, a battery charged by a primary motor via an alternator, and a control unit with a receiver and controller to respond to transmitter signals, allowing for remote operation of attachments such as lawnmowers, snowblowers, and leaf blowers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If manual operation is used, then the equipment can be operated, but the operator cannot be present in dangerous or remote locations
Solution Approach 1:
A wireless transmission system acts as an intermediary between the operator and the power equipment. The transmitter receives commands from the operator and transmits them wirelessly to the receiver on the equipment, enabling remote operation without direct physical contact or proximity to dangerous areas
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical control system (direct manual operation) is replaced with an electromagnetic communication system. Wireless signals transmit control commands from the transmitter to the receiver, which then activates the appropriate motors, eliminating the need for the operator to be physically present
2Ease of operation
If individual wheel motors are used, then maneuverability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The drive system is segmented into two independent drive motors, one for each wheel. This segmentation allows each wheel to be controlled independently, enabling differential drive operation where one wheel can rotate faster than the other for turning, or both can rotate at the same speed for straight movement
Solution Approach 2:
The receiver and control system are designed to handle multiple functions through a single unified controller. The receiver processes wireless signals and the controller coordinates both drive motors, managing forward/reverse movement, turning operations, and attachment control through one integrated system
3Duration of action of moving object
If battery power with alternator charging is used, then continuous operation is enabled, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power system transitions from a static fuel tank configuration to a dynamic rechargeable battery system. The alternator charges the battery during operation, allowing the system to adapt its power availability over time. The battery can be recharged multiple times, enabling continuous operation beyond the capacity of a single fuel tank
Solution Approach 2:
The alternator serves the dual purpose of powering the attachment during operation and simultaneously recharging the battery. This self-service capability allows the system to extend its operational duration by generating its own charging power during use, reducing the need for external charging infrastructure
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 the remote control of power equipment without manual operation, enhancing versatility and safety by allowing operators to control the equipment from a distance, improving maneuverability and control through individual wheel motor control.
Implementation Method 1
A battery, which is charged by the primary motor via an alternator
Data Source
AI summary
A remotely controlled power equipment system which allows various types of power equipment to be remotely controlled by a transmitter. The remotely controlled power equipment system generally includes a base which is adapted to removably connect to one of a plurality of attachments. The base includes a pair of wheels which are each individually powered by one of a pair of drive motors. A battery, which is charged by the primary motor via an alternator, is adapted to power the drive motors. The base includes a control unit which has a receiver adapted to receive commands from a transmitter and a controller adapted to individually control each of the drive motors in response to a signal received from the transmitter. In this manner, power equipment may be remotely controlled via a transmitter without the operator needing to manually operate the power equipment.