Self-Propel Accessory for Push-Driven Machines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Typical walk behind or push-driven machines, such as lawn mowers, require significant user effort to propel, which can discourage users due to physical limitations, leading to avoidance of these devices.
Innovation Solution
A self-propel accessory is provided, comprising a drive assembly motor, power supply, accessory wheel assembly, controller, and attachment assembly, which can be retrofitted onto push-driven machines to convert them into self-propelled devices, offering adjustable features like variable speed control and directional clutch engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a push-driven machine is used, then the machine can perform its function (e.g., mowing), but significant user effort is required to propel it
Solution Approach 1:
The push-driven machine is converted into a self-propelled machine by adding a motorized drive system that automatically propels the machine forward, eliminating the need for manual pushing effort while maintaining operational functionality
2Ease of operation
If physical strength and endurance are limited, then user effort becomes insufficient, but the machine still requires propulsion
Solution Approach 1:
The manual mechanical propulsion system is replaced with an electric motorized propulsion system that provides the necessary force to move the machine, allowing users with limited physical strength to operate the machine effectively
3Ease of operation
If a self-propel accessory is added to convert push-driven machines to self-propelled, then user effort is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The self-propel system is designed as a separate, modular accessory that can be attached to existing push-driven machines, allowing the propulsion function to be added without completely redesigning the entire machine structure
Solution Approach 2:
The self-propel accessory is designed to be compatible with multiple types of push-driven machines, providing a universal solution that can convert different machines to self-propelled operation without requiring machine-specific customizations
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 self-propel accessory reduces user effort required to operate push-driven machines by enabling them to move autonomously, allowing for easier use and operation without interfering with the machines' usual functionality.
Implementation Method 1
at least one drive assembly motor operatively connected to at least one power supply
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein are self-propel accessories for walk behind/push-driven machines/devices comprising: drive assembly motor(s) operatively connected to at least one power supply; at least one drive assembly for imparting drive from the drive assembly motor(s) to at least one accessory wheel assembly that is operatively connected to an output shaft of the drive assembly motor(s) and one of an axle or a drive engagement surface of the at least one accessory wheel assembly having accessory ground engagement wheel(s) coupled to at least one end of the axle for rotation therewith; a controller for the drive assembly motor(s) having an actuator for engaging the drive assembly motor(s); and an attachment assembly for coupling the drive assembly motor(s), the at least one drive assembly and the at least one accessory wheel assembly to a housing of the push-driven machine or device in place of a wheel assembly/sub-assembly of the push-driven machine or device.