Self-Propelled Work Device with Rotatable Drive Wheels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Prior self-propelled work devices face challenges in maintaining correct positioning on uneven ground and obstacles while ensuring high-quality work, particularly in cutting turf, due to limitations in movement and structural rigidity.
Innovation Solution
A self-propelled work device with rotatable drive wheels, independent electric actuators, and a modular structure allowing for interchangeable tools, featuring a mechanical joint and electrical connection system that enables adaptive positioning and safety features like inclination and position sensors to prevent accidents.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If four fixed wheels are used for movement, then the device can move on various ground conditions, but the device cannot maintain correct positioning on uneven ground and obstacles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the drive wheels rotatable about their own axes in addition to rotating about their mounting axes. This dynamic capability allows the wheels to automatically adjust their orientation to maintain contact with the ground and keep the cutting blade parallel to the work surface, even when encountering obstacles or uneven terrain. The rotatable wheels adapt to ground conditions while preserving positioning accuracy.
2Strength
If the frame structure is made rigid for supporting motor-driven work modules, then strength and rigidity are improved, but the device cannot adapt to uneven surfaces while maintaining work quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by separating the functions of the wheel assembly from the main frame. The drive wheels are mounted on the frame but can rotate independently about their own axes, creating a segmented system where the rigid frame provides structural support while the independent wheel rotation provides adaptability to uneven surfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by enabling the drive wheels to rotate about two different axes: the axis of mounting to the frame and the axis of rotation for movement. This dual-axis rotation capability allows the wheels to dynamically adjust to ground irregularities while the rigid frame maintains overall structural integrity and supports the motor-driven work modules.
3Ease of repair
If the device structure is made simple for ease of maintenance, then ease of repair is improved, but the device lacks modular and interchangeable work tools
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the frame to support multiple types of motor-driven work modules through standardized mounting mechanisms. The same basic frame and wheel structure can accommodate different work tools such as cutting blades for turf, brushes for cleaning, or other specialized modules, providing multi-functionality without requiring complex specialized structures for each tool type.
Data Source
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AI summary
Described is a self-propelled work device (1), comprising at least one motor-driven operating portion (10), movement means (20) comprising at least one pair of driving wheels (21) rotatable about a shared axis of rotation (X) and configured to move the operating portion (10) along a work surface (100), connecting means (40) configured for connecting together the operating portion (10) and the movement means (20) in such a way as to allow a relative movement between them. The operating portion (10) can rotate independently relative to the movement means (20) about an axis of oscillation (T) positioned perpendicularly to the axis of rotation (X).