Universal Mounting Assembly for Zero-Turn Mower Attachments
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a simple and efficient mechanism to securely attach a variety of differently configured attachments to zero-turn utility vehicles, such as zero-turn stand-on mowers, allowing for quick and easy engagement and detachment without requiring specific components for each attachment type.
Innovation Solution
A universal mounting assembly featuring a support member actuated by a hydraulic system, with a pivotable plate member and locking mechanism, that engages with a complementary connector assembly on the attachment, enabling secure attachment and detachment by adjusting the support member's position relative to the vehicle's frame.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a universal mounting assembly is used to attach various attachments to the utility vehicle, then the adaptability and versatility are improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for hydraulic actuators, locking mechanisms, and pivotable plate members
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting assembly is designed with a universal interface that can accommodate multiple types of attachments through a standardized connector assembly, allowing a single mounting structure to perform multiple attachment functions rather than requiring separate mounting mechanisms for each attachment type
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting assembly is divided into distinct functional modules including the support member, connector assembly, locking mechanism, and hydraulic actuator system, allowing each component to be independently designed, manufactured, and maintained while contributing to the overall universal attachment capability
2Reliability
If a locking mechanism with pin and aperture is used to secure the attachment, then the reliability of the connection is improved, but the ease of operation decreases due to the manual intervention required to engage and disengage the locking pin
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to automatically engage the locking pin with the aperture when the connector assembly is properly positioned on the support member, eliminating the need for manual locking operations while maintaining secure connection through the self-actuating nature of the pin-aperture interface
3Productivity
If hydraulic actuators are used to raise and lower the support member, then the productivity is improved by enabling quick attachment changes, but the use of energy increases due to the hydraulic system requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The support member is designed with counterbalancing elements that offset the weight of the attachment when raised, reducing the energy required by the hydraulic actuator to maintain elevated positions and minimizing energy consumption during attachment changes while maintaining quick switching capability
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 secure and versatile attachment of various attachments to zero-turn utility vehicles, allowing for easy switching between different tools and improving operational efficiency by simplifying the attachment process.
Implementation Method 1
a support member actuated by a hydraulic actuator
Implementation Method 2
The locking mechanism includes a locking pin on the mounting assembly that is releasably received into an aperture on the attachment
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for detachably securing an attachment to a zero-turn utility vehicle such as a zero-turn, stand-on mower. The system includes a mounting assembly provided on a hydraulically operated support member on the utility vehicle's frame; and a connector assembly provided on the attachment. The mounting assembly includes a pivotable plate member that is inserted into the complementary shaped connector assembly. The plate member includes a locking rod at an upper end. The connector assembly has side walls and a top wall that surround the plate member when the mounting assembly is engaged with the connector assembly. The top wall overhangs and captures the locking rod between the top wall and a back wall of the attachment. A locking mechanism secures the mounting assembly and connector assembly together. Moving the attachment is accomplished by actuating the hydraulic system on the utility vehicle to move the support member.