Steering-Lever Control Modules for Heads-Up Mower Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing riding lawn mowers require operators to look away from the front or remove a hand from the steering levers to operate controls located on the console, compromising safety and ease of use.
Innovation Solution
Integrating control modules onto the steering levers, separate from the grip portion, allowing operators to control vehicle functions without diverting attention or removing hands from the steering levers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If controls are located on the console beside the seat, then the operator can operate vehicle functions, but the operator must take eyes off the front of the vehicle and remove a hand from the steering lever
Solution Approach 1:
The control module is merged with the steering lever assembly, integrating controls that were previously located on the console beside the seat. This allows the operator to access vehicle functions while maintaining hand placement on the steering lever and visual attention on the front of the vehicle, thereby improving safety without compromising operational capability
Solution Approach 2:
A control module serves as an intermediary element attached to the steering lever, providing a interface between the operator and vehicle control systems. This intermediary allows control operations to be performed through the steering lever mechanism rather than requiring direct access to separate console controls
2Adaptability or versatility
If controls are located on the console beside the seat, then vehicle functions can be controlled, but the operator must divert attention from the vehicle's immediate surroundings
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple control functions are merged into a single control module attached to the steering lever. This integration allows the operator to access diverse vehicle functions (engine control, work assembly control, etc.) without diverting attention from the front of the vehicle, as all controls are within the normal field of view
Solution Approach 2:
The control module provides multi-functionality by incorporating multiple control operators that can perform various vehicle functions. This universal control interface allows the operator to manage different vehicle systems while maintaining focus on the operating environment
3Reliability
If control modules are integrated onto the steering levers, then hands-free operation is achieved, but the steering lever design becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The control module is designed as a separate, attachable component rather than being integrated into the core steering lever structure. This segmentation allows the control functionality to be added without fundamentally redesigning the steering lever, reducing the impact on overall design complexity while still achieving hands-free operation
Data Source
AI summary
A riding lawn care vehicle may include a frame to which at least a first drive wheel and a second drive wheel of the riding lawn care vehicle are attachable, an engine operably coupled to the frame and the first and second drive wheels to provide power to the first and second drive wheels, a steering assembly that includes a first steering lever and a second steering lever, and a work assembly. The first and second steering levers are operably coupled to the first and second drive wheels respectively to facilitate turning of the riding lawn care vehicle based on drive speed control of the first and second drive wheels responsive to positioning of the first and second steering levers. The work assembly is operably coupled to the engine to perform a work function responsive to power received from the engine. Each of the first and second steering levers includes a grip portion. At least one of the first steering lever or the second steering lever includes a control module disposed proximate to and separate from the grip portion. The control module includes a control operator configured to control operation of the engine or the work assembly.