U.S. patent application number 09/927506 was filed with the patent office on 2002-03-07 for system for enabling grass catcher to be attached to self-propelled power mower.
This patent application is currently assigned to Wright Manufacturing, Inc.. Invention is credited to Velke, James D., Wright, William R..
Application Number | 20020026779 09/927506 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 27125103 |
Filed Date | 2002-03-07 |
United States Patent
Application |
20020026779 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Velke, James D. ; et
al. |
March 7, 2002 |
System for enabling grass catcher to be attached to self-propelled
power mower
Abstract
A zero-turning radius self-propelled power lawn mower includes a
standing platform structure for supporting a standing operator
during mower operation. The mower has a combination parking brake
and pump lockout structure which, when actuated, simultaneously
applies a braking force to rear drive wheels and prevents hydro
pumps from being moved from their neutral positions. The mower also
includes a biasing system for automatically returning hand control
levers to their neutral positions when they are not being
manipulated by an operator. Unique cutter deck structure, caster
structure, grass catcher structure, and steering control levers are
also provided.
Inventors: |
Velke, James D.;
(Poolesville, MD) ; Wright, William R.;
(Clarksburg, MD) |
Correspondence
Address: |
NIXON & VANDERHYE P.C.
8th Floor
1100 North Glebe Rd.
Arlington
VA
22201-4714
US
|
Assignee: |
Wright Manufacturing, Inc.
|
Family ID: |
27125103 |
Appl. No.: |
09/927506 |
Filed: |
August 13, 2001 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
09927506 |
Aug 13, 2001 |
|
|
|
09694562 |
Oct 24, 2000 |
|
|
|
6301865 |
|
|
|
|
09694562 |
Oct 24, 2000 |
|
|
|
09494139 |
Jan 28, 2000 |
|
|
|
6182429 |
|
|
|
|
09494139 |
Jan 28, 2000 |
|
|
|
09438317 |
Nov 12, 1999 |
|
|
|
6138446 |
|
|
|
|
09438317 |
Nov 12, 1999 |
|
|
|
08972395 |
Nov 18, 1997 |
|
|
|
5984031 |
|
|
|
|
08972395 |
Nov 18, 1997 |
|
|
|
08827455 |
Mar 28, 1997 |
|
|
|
5809755 |
|
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
56/320.2 ;
180/6.48; 56/14.7; 56/16.7 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A01D 2101/00 20130101;
A01D 34/001 20130101; B62D 51/02 20130101; B62D 51/04 20130101;
A01D 34/82 20130101; B62D 11/183 20130101; A01D 34/69 20130101;
A01D 2034/6843 20130101; A01D 34/6806 20130101; Y10S 56/18
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
56/320.2 ;
180/6.48; 56/16.7; 56/14.7 |
International
Class: |
A01D 067/00; A01D
034/64 |
Claims
We claim:
1. A zero-turning-radius power lawn mower for operation by a
standing occupant, the mower comprising: an engine for driving at
least one cutting blade; first and second drive wheels whose drive
direction and speed are controlled by first and second pumps,
respectively; a brake lever that may be actuated in order to apply
a braking force to the mower; and a pump lock-out system that is
engaged to prevent said first and second pumps from being changed
from a neutral state, said pump lock-out system being engaged along
with said braking force when an occupant or operator actuates said
brake lever.
2. The mower of claim 1, wherein said pump lockout system includes
an elongated rod extending across a substantial part of said mower,
and first and second locking members affixed to said elongated rod
for movement therewith.
3. The mower of claim 2, wherein said pump lockout system further
includes first and second pivotable pump control members to which
are attached first and second locking portions, respectively; and
wherein said first and second locking portions fit into first and
second recesses or cut-outs, respectively, that are defined in said
first and second locking members, respectively, so as to lock said
first and second pumps against adjustment from their neutral
states.
4. The mower of claim 1, wherein said pump lockout system can only
be actuated when said first and second pumps are in their neutral
states and the first and second drive wheels are not being
driven.
5. The mower of claim 1, further comprising a platform for
supporting the standing occupant of the mower, said platform being
located relative to a handle member so that a substantial portion
of the occupant's body may be located at a zero-radius-turning axis
of the mower during zero-radius turns thereof so that the occupant
is substantially unaffected by centrifugal force created during
zero radius turns of the mower.
6. The mower of claim 5, wherein said platform is substantially
located between said first and second drive wheels which are rear
drive wheels.
7. A zero-radius turning self-propelled power mower for operation
by an operator, the mower comprising: first and second drive
wheels; a steering control assembly for controlling steering of
said mower, said steering control assembly including: a rigid bar
for supporting hands of the operator during mower operation; first
and second pivotable control levers positioned on one side of said
rigid bar for selectively controlling reverse speed of said first
and second drive wheels, respectively, wherein each of said first
and second control levers is adapted to be pivoted toward said
rigid bar in order to cause a corresponding one of said drive
wheels to move in a reverse direction; and the steering control
assembly further including third and fourth pivotable control
levers positioned on the other side of said rigid bar so that said
rigid bar is disposed between (i) said first and second control
levers, and (ii) said third and fourth control levers; and wherein
said third and fourth control levers are each adapted to be pivoted
toward said rigid bar in order to cause a corresponding drive wheel
to be driven in a forward direction.
8. The mower of claim 7, wherein said first, second, third, and
fourth levers are pivotable about a common pivot axis.
9. The mower of claim 7, further comprising means for automatically
biasing said first, second, third, and fourth levers to their
respective neutral positions when said levers are not being
utilized by an operator, and wherein said mower is a stand-on mower
including a foot platform for supporting the operator who is
standing on the mower's platform during mower operation.
10. The mower of claim 8, wherein said means includes first and
second springs for biasing first and second pump control members,
respectively, in a first direction, and third and fourth springs
for biasing said first and second pump control members in a second
direction opposite said first direction so that said biasing forces
of said first, second, third, and fourth springs automatically
biases said first, second, third, and fourth levers to their
neutral positions when said levers are not being manipulated by the
operator.
11. A self-propelled power lawn mower for operation by a standing
operator, the mower comprising: a platform structure for supporting
the standing operator during mower operation, said platform
structure being at least partially located between first and second
rear drive wheels of the mower; and wherein said platform structure
includes: a bottom surface for supporting the operator; first and
second sidewalls connected to said bottom surface for shielding the
operator's feet from said wheels; and an overhang portion connected
to said sidewalls which at least partially overhangs said bottom
surface so as to be disposed between an engine and the operators
feet.
12. The mower of claim 11, wherein first and second wheel motor
brackets are mounted to said first and second sidewalls,
respectively, and first and second motors for driving said wheels
are disposed within said first and second brackets,
respectively.
13. A cutter deck adapted to be mounted on a power lawn mower, said
cutter deck comprising: a top surface; a front sidewall connected
to said top surface, said front sidewall defining a front section
of said cutter deck; a grass discharge opening defined in a side of
said cutter deck, so that cut grass can be discharge from an
interior of said cutter deck via said opening; a cover support wall
located on said top surface for supporting a cutter deck cover,
said cover support wall defining a first area in which blade
driving pulley members are located; first and second elongated
vertically extending cover support members extending upwardly from
said top surface to support said cover; and wherein said cover is
mounted on said cover support members so as to cover said first
area, and wherein a sidewall of said cover is at least partially
disposed in a spaced substantially parallel relationship from a
corresponding portion of said cover support wall so as to define a
gap therebetween when said cover is mounted on said cutter
deck.
14. The cutter deck of claim 13, wherein said deck includes catcher
mounting structure located proximate said discharge opening, said
catcher mounting structure including first and second pin receiving
members for receiving pins mounted on a grass catcher to be mounted
to said cutter deck.
15. The cutter deck of claim 14, wherein said first pin receiving
member includes an aperture defined an a metallic member, and said
second pin receiving member includes a cavity or slot defined
between two substantially parallel members, said catcher mounting
structure for enabling the catcher to be pivotally mounted to said
cutter deck.
16. A self-propelled power lawn mower comprising: a pump for
controlling drive speed and drive direction of a drive wheel of the
mower, the pump including a shaft extending therefrom; control
linkage operatively coupled to a steering control system, said
linkage adapted to pivot along with said shaft in order to
manipulate said pump; a clamping mechanism for coupling said
linkage to said shaft, said clamping mechanism including a
substantially U-shaped clamping member having first and second
sidewall portions, said shaft extending through apertures defined
in said sidewall portions, and wherein first and second elongated
fasteners extend through a space defined between said sidewall
portions in order to couple said linkage to said clamp and to
couple said shaft to said clamp whereby said linkage and said shaft
are operatively coupled to one another so that they pivot together
when said linkage pivots.
Description
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Ser. No.
08/827,455, filed Mar. 28, 1997, the disclosure of which is hereby
incorporated herein by reference.
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0002] This application is related to commonly owned U.S. Pat. No.
5,600,944; U.S. Pat. No. 5,507,138; and Ser. No. 08/932,932, the
disclosures of which are hereby incorporated herein by
reference.
POWER MOWER WITH RIDING PLATFORM FOR SUPPORTING STANDING OPERATOR
DURING OPERATION
[0003] This invention relates to a power driven device. More
particularly, this invention relates to a zero-turning radius power
lawn mower including a riding platform for supporting a standing
operator.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] Conventional hydraulically driven (i.e. hydrostatically
controlled) machines such as power lawn mowers include a pair of
drive wheels, each of which is independently operated by a
hydraulic (i.e. hydrostatic) pump coupled to the mower's engine. A
corresponding motor is provided for each drive wheel, each motor
being powered and controlled by one of the pumps. Each pump
includes a control lever for regulating fluid pressure and
direction to its corresponding motor so that the drive wheels can
be independently controlled so that each may be rotated at variable
speeds in both forward and reverse directions. In this manner, the
mower may be steered by controlling the speed and direction of the
two drive wheels. This type of design is found in the mower
inventions herein.
[0005] In certain of the above-identified mowers and in the instant
inventions, it is possible to operate one of the drive wheels at a
predetermined speed in a first direction and the other drive wheel
at the same speed in the opposite direction, thereby enabling the
operator to conduct zero-radius turns of the mower. This, of
course, provides for improved maneuverability in tight
environments. Exemplary zero-radius turning mowers are disclosed in
commonly owned U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,507,138 and 5,600,944.
[0006] Conventional power mowers are generally divided into three
separate categories: (i) self-propelled walk behind mowers; (ii)
mowers operated by a seated occupant; and (iii) mowers operated by
a standing operator. Walk behind mowers and mowers operated by
seated occupants have a number of disadvantages, some of which are
discussed in the background section of the parent application, and
in the background sections of the above-identified U.S. Pat. Nos.
5,507,138 and 5,600,944, each of which is incorporated herein by
reference.
[0007] Unfortunately, known prior art mowers which have a platform
for supporting a standing operator, such as that disclosed in U.S.
Pat. No. 4,878,339, have a number of disadvantages. These include
inefficient design, overly complicated design and equipment, the
utilization of parts which are not efficiently manufacturable or
easily assembled in mass production environments, etc.
[0008] It is apparent from the above that there exists a need in
the art for a power lawn mower operable by a standing occupant
including an efficient and operator-friendly design, and parts
therefor which are efficient, easily made, cost-effective, and the
like. Each of the above-identified advantages is accomplished
herein.
[0009] It is a purpose of this invention to fulfill the
above-described needs in the art, as well as other needs which will
become apparent to the skilled artisan from the following detailed
description of this invention.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] Generally speaking, this invention fulfills the
above-described needs in the art by providing a zero-turning radius
power lawn mower for operation by a standing occupant, the mower
comprising:
[0011] an engine for driving at least one cutting blade;
[0012] first and second drive wheels whose drive direction and
speed are controlled by first and second pumps, respectively;
[0013] a brake lever that may be actuated in order to apply a
braking effect or force to the mower; and
[0014] a pump lockout system that is engaged to prevent the first
and second pumps from being changed from a neutral state, the pump
lockout system being engaged along with the braking force when an
occupant or operator actuates the brake lever.
[0015] In certain preferred embodiments, the mower includes a
standing platform for supporting the standing occupant, the
platform being located relative to a handle member (which is
positioned forward of the zero-radius turning axis) so that a
substantial portion of the occupant's body may be located a
zero-radius turning axis or point of the mower during zero-radius
turns thereof so that the occupant is substantially unaffected by
centrifugal force created during zero-radius turns of the
mower.
[0016] This invention further fulfills the above-described needs in
the art by providing a zero-radius turning mower comprising:
[0017] first and second drive wheels;
[0018] a steering control assembly for controlling steering of the
mower, the steering control assembly including a rigid bar for
supporting hands of the operator during mower operation, first and
second pivotable control levers positioned on one side of the rigid
bar for selectively controlling reverse speed of the first and
second drive wheels respectively, wherein each of the first and
second control levers is adapted to be pivoted toward the rigid bar
in order to cause a corresponding one of the drive wheels to move
in a reverse direction; and
[0019] the steering control assembly further including third and
fourth pivotable control levers positioned on the other side of the
rigid bar so that the rigid bar is disposed between (i) the first
and second control levers; and (ii) the third and fourth control
levers; and wherein the first and fourth control levers are each
adapted to be pivoted toward the rigid bar in order to cause a
corresponding drive wheel to be driven in a forward direction.
[0020] In certain preferred embodiments, the first, second, third,
and fourth levers are pivotable about a common pivot axis.
[0021] This invention further fulfills the above-described needs in
the art by providing a self-propelled power lawn mower for
operation by a standing operator, the mower comprising:
[0022] a platform structure for supporting the standing operator
during mower operation, the platform structure being at least
partially located between first and second rear drive wheels of the
mower; and
[0023] wherein the platform structure includes a bottom surface for
supporting the operator, first and second sidewalls connected to
the bottom surface for shielding the operator's feet from the
wheels, and an overhang portion connected to the sidewalls which at
least partially overhangs the bottom surface so as to be disposed
between an engine and the operator's feet.
[0024] This invention will now be described with respect to certain
embodiments thereof, accompanied by certain illustrations,
wherein:
IN THE DRAWINGS
[0025] FIG. 1 is a side elevational view of a stand-on zero-radius
turning mower according to an embodiment of this invention.
[0026] FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of the handle mechanism
support assembly, engine deck, and separate and independent cutter
deck of the FIG. 1 embodiment.
[0027] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a parking brake control
system adapted for use in the FIG. 1-2 mower, according to certain
embodiments of this invention.
[0028] FIG. 4 is a side partial cross-sectional view of a pivoting
pump control lever and notched locking tab of the FIG. 3
structure.
[0029] FIG. 5 is an exploded elevational view of the brake lever
assembly of the FIG. 3-4 structure.
[0030] FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating the upper portion
of the handle mechanism control assembly according to an embodiment
of this invention adapted to be used in conjunction with the mowers
of all embodiments herein.
[0031] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an automatic neutral control
return system according to an embodiment of this invention, this
system adapted to be used in combination with the mower of FIGS.
1-6 and all embodiments herein.
[0032] FIG. 8 is a rear elevational view of the handle mechanism
assembly supporting structure of the FIG. 1 mower, according to an
embodiment of this invention, this structure adapted to be used in
conjunction with the mower of FIGS. 1-7 and all embodiments
herein.
[0033] FIG. 9 is a rear elevational view of the FIG. 8 structure,
except that the rear wheel assembly and handle bar(s) and dash are
not illustrated.
[0034] FIG. 10 is a partially exploded elevational view of the
engine deck structure for supporting wheel motors, handle bar
assembly, and operator support platform structure according to an
embodiment of this invention, this structure adapted to be used in
conjunction with the mower of FIGS. 1-9 and all embodiments
herein.
[0035] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the cutter deck according
to an embodiment of this invention, this cutter deck adapted to be
used in conjunction with the mower of FIGS. 1-10 and all
embodiments herein.
[0036] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the FIG. 11 cutter deck,
and in addition to FIG. 11 illustrates how the cutter deck may be
attached to the separate and independent engine deck, the engine
deck being illustrated in dotted lines.
[0037] FIG. 13 is a top transparent view of the cutter deck of
FIGS. 11-12, looking through the top surface of the deck to show
the components underneath the deck's top surface.
[0038] FIG. 14 is a top elevational view of the cutter deck of
FIGS. 11-13, this cutter deck adapted to be used in conjunction
with any of the mowers herein.
[0039] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the side discharge opening
structure of the cutter deck of FIGS. 11-14.
[0040] FIG. 16 is a perspective view illustrating certain
components of a deadman switch operatively associated with the
operator support platform, this structure to be used in conjunction
with the mower of FIGS. 1-15 and all embodiments herein.
[0041] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a pump clamp, after it has
been bent about its center area, this clamp operatively associated
with the structure of FIGS. 23-26.
[0042] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a pair of anti-wheelie
wheels located adjacent the rear of the mower for anti-tip-over
purposes, this structure adapted to be used in conjunction with the
mower of FIGS. 1-17 herein and all embodiments herein.
[0043] FIG. 19 is a partial side elevational view of the
anti-wheelie structure of FIG. 18 on the FIG. 1-17 mower, including
the mower's wheel and handle support assembly portions.
[0044] FIG. 20 is a side elevational view illustrating the
anti-tipping structure of FIGS. 18-19 on the FIG. 1-19 mower, this
figure showing how the anti-wheelie structure prevents backward
tipping (i.e. wheelies) over of the mower of FIGS. 1-19 herein.
[0045] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a fuel tank support bracket
according to certain embodiments of this invention, this bracket
adapted to be used in conjunction with the mower of FIGS. 1-20 and
all embodiments herein.
[0046] FIG. 22 illustrates the not-yet-bent bracket of FIG. 21, in
a side view manner mounted to the engine deck, this bracket also
useable in a singular manner to support a battery mounting plate in
certain embodiments. The shape of this support is advantageous in
that it is shaped to mount to the top of the engine deck and clear
the chute path.
[0047] FIG. 23 is a side elevation view of the clamp of FIG. 17 in
its manufacturing process, before it is bent (i.e. prior to forming
of the FIG. 17 bent structure).
[0048] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a pump shaft operatively
associated with the FIG. 17 and FIG. 23 clamp, the shaft portion
shown in FIG. 24 operatively associated with the FIG. 26 structure
as shown.
[0049] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of control linkage coupled to
the clamp of FIGS. 17, 23, and 24.
[0050] FIG. 26 is a perspective view illustrating the overall pump
clamp and lever assembly including the components of FIGS. 17 and
23-25, this assembly to be used in conjunction with the mower of
the different embodiments herein.
[0051] FIG. 27 is a rear elevational view, with the tire being
illustrated in cross-section, of the right rear side of a mower in
accordance with an embodiment of this invention, this particular
embodiment or system for enlarging the standing area for the
operator between the rear drive wheels, this structure useable in
accordance with any of the embodiments herein.
[0052] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of the cutter deck of FIGS.
11-14, in conjunction with its deck cover according to an
embodiment of this invention.
[0053] FIG. 29 is an exploded perspective view of the caster
structure for each of the front caster wheels of the mowers of this
invention, according to certain embodiments.
[0054] FIG. 30 is an exploded perspective view of the FIG. 29
caster yoke, caster pivot pin, and cross bar, this caster structure
adapted to be used for supporting front wheels according to any
embodiment of this invention.
[0055] FIG. 31 is a perspective view of the FIG. 15 cutter deck
side-grass-discharge opening, with a grass deflector pivotally
attached thereto according to certain embodiments of this
invention.
[0056] FIG. 32 is a perspective view of a grass catcher adapted to
be attached to the cutter deck structure shown in FIGS. 15 and 31
according to certain embodiments of this invention.
[0057] FIG. 33 is a top elevational view of the FIG. 32 grass
catcher attached to the FIG. 31 cutter deck according to certain
embodiments of this invention, this catcher assembly adapted to be
used in conjunction with all mower embodiments herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN EMBODIMENTS IN THIS INVENTION
[0058] Referring now more particularly to the accompanying drawings
in which like reference numerals indicate like parts throughout the
several views herein.
[0059] FIG. 1 is a side elevational view of a zero-turning radius
stand-on mower according to certain embodiments of this invention,
this mower including a foot platform support structure 18 for
supporting a standing (at least substantially upright) operator
during operation of the mower. Structure 18 supports an operator
supporting metal perforated sheet 234 upon which the operation
stands, sheet 234 being part of structure 18. FIG. 2 shows only the
cutter deck, engine deck, and a handle support of the FIG. 1 mower.
The mower's handle bar 10 and hand-control mechanism and steering
control levers 17 and 19 are located forward of the zero-radius
turning axis and are thus positioned so that the standing occupant
can at least be partially positioned at the zero radius turning
axis or point (between the rear drive wheels) during zero-radius
turns of the mower so that the operator is substantially unaffected
by centrifugal force created during such zero radius turns when the
rear drive wheels 7 are operated at substantially the same speed in
opposite directions.
[0060] The FIG. 1-2 mower includes cutter deck 1, engine deck 3,
(the mower and cutter decks are separate deck structures for
performing different functions), a pair of front caster wheels 5, a
pair of rear drive wheels 7, engine 9 mounted on engine deck 3,
handle control assembly 11 for allowing the operator to control the
rotation drive speed and direction of the rear drive wheels 7,
thigh pad 13 for enabling the operator to rest his/her thighs
thereon during operation, support assembly 15 extending upwardly at
an angle from engine deck 3 so as to support thigh pad 13 and
handle control assembly 11 (this support assembly includes first
and second upwardly extending supports 15 located on opposite sides
of the operator support platform), and cutting blades positioned
beneath cutting deck 1 (the cutting blades are driven by engine 9)
The tops of supports 15 bend such that they curve over top of the
engine and the like.
[0061] Handle control assembly 11 includes rigid handle bar 10
fixedly attached to supports 15, reverse control levers 17, and
forward control levers 19. Control levers 17 and 19 are pivotally
affixed to supports 15 about axis 21 so that the standing operator
can control the steering of the mower via the rear drive wheels 7
by pivoting levers 17 and/or 19 during operation. There are two
separate reverse control levers 17 (one corresponding to each rear
drive wheel 7) and two separate forward control levers 19 (one
corresponding to each rear drive wheel 7).
[0062] During operation, the operator stands on the pivotal
platform sheet 234 of operator support platform structure 18 and
holds onto rigid non-pivoting handle bar 10 for support during
mower operation. In order to cause a particular rear drive wheel 7
to be driven in a reverse direction, the operator simply pulls the
reverse control lever 17 corresponding to the wheel to be
controlled backward so that lever 17 pivots about axis 21, and the
degree to which the, lever 17 is pivoted backward toward bar 10
dictates and determines the speed of the rear drive wheel 7 being
controlled. In a similar manner, in order to cause one of wheels 7
to be driven in a forward direction, the operator moves or pivots
the forward control lever 19 corresponding to that particular drive
wheel in a forward direction toward rigid bar 10, and the
degree/distance to which the lever 19 is moved dictates or
determines the forward speed of the wheel 7 being controlled. In
order to cause the mower to move in a straight forward direction
for example, the operator pivots both levers 19 forward toward bar
10 a substantially equal amount/distance. In order to cause the
mower to move straight backward the operator would pull both
reverse levers 17 backward toward bar 10 in substantially equal
amounts. The mower is turned by the operator by causing the rear
drive wheels 7 to rotate at different speeds in the same or
opposite direction, or at the same speed in opposite directions.
For example, when the mower is moving in a forward direction the
operator may turn slightly to the right by pushing both levers 19
forward toward bar 10, but pushing the left hand lever 19 further
forward than the right hand lever 19 so that the left rear drive
wheel 7 is driven at a faster forward speed than the right hand
rear drive wheel 7. For zero-radius turns about a pivot axis
located between the two rear drive wheels 7, the reverse lever 17
corresponding to one wheel 7 is pulled backward a predetermined
amount and the forward lever 19 corresponding to the other wheel 7
is pushed forward substantially the same predetermined amount so
that the two drive wheels 7 rotate at substantially the same speed
in opposite directions.
[0063] It is noted that each support member 15 includes a central
bend 23 located proximate a central area thereof, and another lower
bend 25 provided at the bottom of support 15 for the purpose of
allowing the support 15 to be bolted or otherwise affixed to a top
surface of engine deck 3. The control assembly 11 also includes
dash panel or dashboard 27.
[0064] FIGS. 3-5 illustrate a parking brake and pump control
lockout control system according to an embodiment of this
invention. The FIG. 3-5 system is, of course, adapted to be used in
conjunction with the mower of FIGS. 1-2. The system can be actuated
when the mower is in neutral (i.e. when steering control levers 17
and 19 are not being touched by the operator and are thus biased
into their respective neutral positions), and when this system is
actuated pins 53 become locked in recesses or cutouts 46 defined in
locking lever members 45 and 47 respectively so that pump control
levers 49 (e.g. lever for controlling left-hand pump) and 51 (e.g.
lever for controlling right hand pump) and elongated rod 43 are
locked in place and parking brake shoes 59 engage the tires of
wheels 7. Thus, when the lockout and brake system is actuated,
simultaneously (i) the parking brake is set on the mower, and (ii)
levers 17 and 19 cannot be moved and therefor pumps 31 and 33
cannot be adjusted from their neutral positions.
[0065] FIGS. 3-5 illustrate the lockout system in an actuated (or
locked) position when parking brake lever 35 (see FIG. 5) has been
pulled upward by an operator, with FIG. 3 illustrating the system
generally except for parking brake lever 35, its handle 37, and
stop member 41 which are shown in FIG. 5 (FIG. 3 does not
illustrate lever 35 for purposes of simplicity). FIG. 4 is a
close-up view showing how a pin 53 becomes locked in a cutout 46
when the brake and lockout system is actuated.
[0066] As illustrated in FIGS. 3-5, the parking brake and pump
control lockout system includes hydraulic/hydrostatic pump 31 for
controlling the direction and speed of one (e.g. left) rear drive
wheel 7, hydraulic/hydrostatic pump 33 for controlling the
direction and speed of the other (e.g. right) rear drive wheel 7,
handle control assembly 11 including reverse control levers 17 and
forward control levers 19, substantially L-shaped parking brake
control lever 35 and corresponding handle 37 portion (see FIG. 5),
push rod 39 pivotally affixed to brake lever 35 at pivot axis 36,
stop member 41 rigidly mounted to the mower (see FIG. 5), thigh pad
13 (see FIG. 5), engine base- or deck 3, rigid rotatable bar 43
mounted on top of the engine deck and adapted to rotate about its
elongated axis, locking lever members 45 and 47, pivoting pump
control levers 49 and 51, elongated pin members 53 which are
affixed to levers 49 and 51 respectively and which are adapted to
operatively lock or fit into the respective cutouts or recesses 46
defined in members 45 and 47, spring 55 for biasing rod 43 and
member 57 about their common pivot or rotation axis into a
non-actuated position, brake shoes 59 for operatively braking the
tires of wheels 7, brake shoe supporting members 61 for coupling
shoes 59 to rod 43, elongated support members 63 extending between
the pair of supports 15 for pivotally supporting the handle
assembly, steering control rods 75, and rod connecting member or
yoke 65 pivotally connecting brake/lockout pushrod 39 to member 57.
There are two commonly aligned members 63, one corresponding to
each set of levers for each drive wheel. Yoke 65 is threadedly
coupled to pushrod 39 at one end thereof in a non-pivoting manner,
and is pivotally attached to member 57 at its other end so that
vertical movement of pushrod 39 causes member 57 and rod 43 to
rotate together about their common elongated axis.
[0067] Still referring to FIGS. 3-5, the operator can manipulate
the speed and direction of rear drive wheels 7 by moving control
levers 17 and 19. For example, when a reverse control lever 17 is
pulled backward by the operator, it pivots about axis 21, 71 which
causes a member 73 to cause a steering control rod 75 to move
downward. When rod 75 moves downward as a result of its
corresponding lever 17 being pulled backward, this causes the
corresponding pump control lever 49 to pivot in a clockwise
direction (relative to the FIG. 3 illustration) about pump shaft
axis 77 thereby controlling the pump at issue so that the pump
causes the wheel 7 being controlled to rotate in a reverse
direction at a speed dictated by the amount the lever 17 was pulled
backward. Meanwhile, when either of forward control levers 19 is
pushed forward by the operator, this causes the corresponding rod
75 to move vertically upward thereby causing the lever 49 being
manipulated to rotate counterclockwise about its axis 77 so that
the pump at issue causes the corresponding wheel 7 to rotate
forward at a speed dictated by the amount the lever 19 was moved
forward. Depending upon the direction and degree of rotation of
axis/rod 77, pump 31/33 is controlled so as to manipulate the
direction and speed of the corresponding drive wheel 7. It is noted
that the mower is in "neutral" when none of levers 17 and 19 are
pushed or pulled by the operator.
[0068] The parking brake and pump lockout system of FIGS. 3-5 is
actuated when the operator pulls handle 37 upward to the position
shown in FIG. 5. However, spring 55 biases member 57 and rod 43 to
a non-actuated position, so that when handle 37 is not pulled, rod
43 is biased by spring 55 to rotate backward in a clockwise
direction (relative to the FIG. 3 illustration) about its axis so
that locking levers 45 and 47 are substantially spaced from pins 53
and the lockout system cannot become engaged. When the operator
pulls handle 37 to actuate the system, this causes rod 43 to rotate
counterclockwise toward pins 53 against the biasing force of spring
55, and the lockout system can be engaged when the mower is in
neutral and the position of pins 53 is such that they slide into
(i.e. become engaged with) cutouts or recesses 46. The parking
brake and pump lockout system can only be actuated or engaged when
the mower is in neutral because this is the only time when the
position of pins 53 corresponds to the position of cutouts 46 when
handle 37 is pulled upward.
[0069] FIG. 4 is a side partial cross-sectional view illustrating
in an enlarged manner how an elongated pin or bar 53 which is
attached to a pump control lever 49 can become locked in locking
member 45 so as to lock brake shoes 59 in place against wheels 7 so
as to actuate the parking brake, and lock out control of movement
of levers 49 and thus control of pumps 31 and 33. Referring to FIG.
5, in order to actuate the parking brake and pump lockout system,
when the mower is in neutral the operator pulls lever 35 upward via
handle member 37 so that lever 35 pivots about axis 81 in a
counterclockwise direction. As a result of this counterclockwise
pivoting of lever 35, pushrod 39 is moved vertically downward until
the bottom side or surface 83 of lever 35 comes to rest against
stop 41 (see FIG. 5). When bottom surface 83 of lever 35 comes to
rest against stop 41, pushrod 39 has been pushed downward thereby
causing pivoting member/lever 57 to rotate counterclockwise along
with rod 43 to which it is rigidly affixed so as to pivot locking
members 45 and 47 counterclockwise so that locking cutouts 46 slide
around and become engaged with pins 53. When pins 53 are engaged in
the cutouts or recesses 46 in locking members 45 and 47
respectively, this prevents pump control levers/arms 49, and
control levers 17 and 19 from moving thereby keeping the mower in
neutral until handle 37 is pushed downward by the operator to
deactuate or disengage the parking brake and pump lockout system.
At the same time that rod 43 rotates counterclockwise when brake
handle 37 is pulled to actuate the system, this also causes members
61 to pivot counterclockwise with rod 43 about their common axis
which in turn forces the corresponding brake shoes 59 into
engagement with the tires of wheels 7 so as to engage the parking
brake. The combination parking brake/pump control lockout system is
disengaged simply by pushing handle 37 downward so as to cause
surface 83 to become disengaged with stop 41 which allows rod 39 to
move upward and spring 55 to bias rod 43 and members 45 into
disengaged positions remote from pins 53. Spring 55 also biases
shoes 59 out of contact with the tires.
[0070] Another nice aspect of this invention is that the "actuated"
position that handle 37 assumes when the parking brake is on (and
pump lockout is in effect) is one such that handle 37 extends
outwardly rather far from thigh rest 13 and is easily visible to
any operator. When the center of rod 39 or pivot 36 passes beyond
center line 34 defined between axis 81 and the pivot of member 65,
then this locks the lever 35 in a brake position as rod 39 is
forced or biased upward due to tension by spring 55 and/or the
effect of the tires against shoes 59. Thus, one can tell from a far
distance from the mower whether the pumps 31 and 33 are locked out
and the parking brake is on. When the parking brake is off, and
pins 53 disengaged from cutouts 46, handle 37 is at a position
rotated clockwise relative to its FIG. 5 position so that handle 37
is substantially parallel to pad or rest 13 and does not stick
outwardly from rest 13 and thereby does not inhibit movement of the
operator during mower operation.
[0071] FIG. 6 is a perspective of the dash panel of the FIG. 1-5
mower according to certain embodiments of this invention. As
illustrated, the handle control assembly 11 includes rigid handle
bar 10 which is affixed at both ends thereof to corresponding
supports 15 in a non-moving manner, and control levers 17 and 19
described above. As will be appreciated, there are two each of
control levers 17 and 19, so that the right-hand lever 17 controls
reverse movement of the right rear drive wheel while the left-hand
lever 17 controls the reverse movement of the left rear drive
wheel. The same is the case with the two separate and independent
forward control levers 19. Also illustrated in FIG. 6 are dash
panel 27, 101 which is supported and rigidly affixed to cross
member 141 on supports 15, aperture or hole 102 allows an operator
to access the oil tank and fill same, clutch switch 103, key switch
104, throttle control 105 which may be operated by either hand of
the operator without the operator needing. to remove his hands from
supporting handle bar 10, hour meter 106, ammeter 107, dashboard
mounting screws 108, thigh pad or rest 13, lever control axis 21,
71 about which levers 17 and 19 pivot, pivot member 73 for coupling
levers 17 and 19 to control rods 75, and throttle control knob 111.
This dashboard assembly has been specifically designed by the
instant inventors so as to be user friendly and safe. This design
allows the operator to always have the ability to keep both hands
on bar 10 during actual mower operation regardless of whether the
mower is being turned, or being driven in forward or reverse.
Levers 17 and 19 are positioned on either side of bar 10 so that
they are easily manipulated during mower operation while the user
remains supported at his/her hands by bar 10. Also, elements 105,
111, 103, and 104 are positioned so that they do not interfere with
the operators manipulation of levers 17 and 19 during mower
operation. Because levers 17 and 19 are rigidly affixed to one
another in a non-pivotal manner, and pivot together as a unit about
axis 21, 71, either lever can be used for forwardly or rearwardly
controlling a drive wheel, although preferably the operator uses
levers 17 for reverse control and levers 19 for forward control due
to the convenient location of support bar 10 for supporting the
operator's hands during operation.
[0072] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an automatic neutral control
return system according to an embodiment of this invention, which
functions to bias pump control levers 49, 51 and levers 17 and 19
into their neutral positions when levers 17 and 19 are not being
manipulated by an operator. The FIG. 7 system may be used either
separately from, or in conjunction with, the system of FIGS. 3-5
described above. As shown in FIG. 7, the system includes rotatable
bar 63, steering control levers 17 and 19, rod pivot bars 73,
steering control rods 75, and mounted on engine deck 3 are hydro
pump 31, hydro pump 33, pump control levers 49 and 51 respectively
described above, neutral levers 121 (one corresponding to each pump
control lever), substantially U-shaped coupling levers 123 which
each operatively couples one of the neutral levers 121 to a pump
control lever 49, 51, neutral adjustment base member 125 upon which
are mounted a pair of neutral adjustment knobs 127, and biasing
springs 129, 131, 133, and 135. Eye bolts 137 are also provided in
order to mount the various springs 129-135 to brackets 139 which
are rigidly welded of otherwise affixed to supports 15 or some
other part of the mower. Eye bolts 139 may be utilized to adjust
the tension of springs 129-135. Pin 122 is welded to element 123
that is adjacent pump 31, and pin 122 extends through aperture in
each of elements 121, base 132, and pipe bushings 120. Pin or rod
122 is not attached to member 123 that is adjacent pump 33. Each
neutral lever 121 pivots on pivot rod or pin 122 so that the
biasing force created upon levers 121 by springs 133 and 135 biases
levers 121 about their pivot axes in a counterclockwise direction
(relative to the FIG. 7 illustration) and the bottom engaging
portions 124 of neutral levers 121 come into engaging contact with
the engaging ends of neutral adjustment knobs 127. Each knob 127
includes both a hand-manipulatable end which may be turned by an
operator in order to adjust the position of the knobs relative to
lever 121 surfaces 124, and an engaging end adapted to come into
supporting contact with surfaces 124. Knobs 127 may be threadedly
adjustable in certain embodiments of this invention. Thus, springs
133 and 135 tend to bias levers 121 to pivot counterclockwise about
axes 122 so that engaging members 128 cause coupling levers 123 to
pivot counterclockwise about their respective axes 130. Pivot
support bases 132 are rigidly bolted to the engine deck, and
coupling levers 123 are rigidly affixed (e.g. welded) to pump
control levers 49, S1 so that they move together as a unit. One end
of springs 133 and 135 is coupled to the engine deck while the
other end of each spring is affixed to one of neutral levers 121 in
order to normally bias levers 121 and 49, 51 in counterclockwise
directions.
[0073] Still referring to FIG. 7, springs 133 and 135 bias levers
121, members 123, and pump control levers 49, 51 in one direction
(i.e. counterclockwise direction). Meanwhile, springs 129 and 131
bias their corresponding levers 49, 51 in the opposite direction
(i.e. clockwise rotational bias about their axes). When springs
129-135 are properly adjusted relative to one another via eye bolts
137 and knobs 127 are properly adjusted, the springs bias levers
49, 51 (and levers 17, 19) into neutral positions so that when no
operator is touching levers 17, 19 then springs 129, 131, 133, and
135 bias levers 49 and 51 such that pumps 31 and 33 are in neutral
and wheels 7 are not driven.
[0074] FIGS. 8 and 9 illustrate the handle bar support assembly
from the rear of the mower. The assembly includes sheet metal
supports 15 on either side of the mower, central bends 23 in
supports 15, dash panel 27, 101, pivots 63 disposed between the
opposing supports 15, bend sections 143 at the bottom areas of
supports 15 for bolting supports 15 to the engine deck, cutter deck
1, operator foot platform 18, rear drive wheels 7, cross member
141, and engine deck 3. The use of a single piece of sheet metal
for each member 15, bent at areas 23 and 143, has been found to
greatly improve the manufacturability of the mower. A flat piece of
sheet metal is first cut into a shape so as to form a support 15 as
shown in FIG. 1-2. Then, the sheet metal is bent about line 23 and
another line so as to form portion 25, 143. In such a manner, only
one piece of sheet metal is required, so as to more efficiently
enable the mower to be manufactured and to provide a high quality
sturdy mower structure.
[0075] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 8-9, supports 15 are shaped as
shown for specific functional and structural reasons. The base of
each member 15 curves backward via radius 2 defined in the rear
edge wall of each member 15 for added strength and support for the
steering assembly 21. The portions of supports 15 located
vertically above bends 23 are substantially parallel to one another
so that it is easier to mount the cross members and handle assembly
components to the supports 15 and so axis 21 and members 63 can fit
through typical straight apertures defined in members 15, and so
that pad 13 can be rectangular in design instead of some abnormal
shape. The substantially parallel orientation of the supports
relative to one another above bends 23 makes it easier for the
manufacturer of the mower to tie components into one another above
bends 23. Supports 15 are curved and bent below bends 23 as
illustrated in order to proved added strength to the supports, and
to strengthen the supports against flexing back and forth during
operation. Radius 2 in the back edge of each member 15 also
provides for additional mower component space behind supports 15
(e.g. hoses and the like). The shape of the supports 15, and their
angle upward (from about 15-35 degrees from the vertical) also
allows pad 13 position to be maximized for the size of the handle
bars, and it is noted that supports 15 get narrower as they near
the tops thereof for support/strength reasons.
[0076] FIG. 10 illustrates standing platform supporting structure
(except for operator support sheet 234) shown generally by
reference numeral 18, and engine deck 3 structure, according to an
embodiment of this invention. The platform 234 supporting structure
18 includes foot platform sheet 234 for supporting the operator's
feet (not shown in FIG. 10) during mower operation, platform
sidewalls 151 for isolating the operator's feet from the drive
wheels 7 and their motors, vertical surface 153, elongated annular
bar 155 welded to the platform structure so as to give structure
for wheel motor brackets 157 on both sides of the platform, a pair
of motor brackets 157, rigid channel shaped member 159 disposed
between sidewalls 151 and proximate the front of foot area for
providing structure for brackets 157 and a rest 160 for the front
of the standing platform, handlebar upright base members 163
including vertically oriented portions and horizontally aligned
portions 161 the substantially horizontally aligned portions 161
for supporting members 15 which may be bolted or welded thereto via
holes 165. In FIG. 10, a void or open area is defined between bar
155, the sidewalls, and member 159, this void area to be filled by
operator support sheet 234 when the sheet is pivotally mounted via
apertures 171 defined in the sidewalls. Operator supporting plate
or sheet 234 is not mounted to the engine deck 3, but instead is
pivotally mounted to sidewall members 151 via apertures 171--this
is important as it would be undesirable for the plate 234 to be
mounted to the engine deck. The entire purpose of sidewalls 151,
bar 155, etc. is to enable operator supporting platform plate 234
to be pivotally mounted beneath the engine deck, and not to the
engine deck. This is believed to improve mower performance.
[0077] Rigid strong members 161, 163 are important in that they
simultaneously provided mounting support for support members 15,
motor brackets 157, platform 18, and sidewalls 151. One metal sheet
is provided and bent so as to form engine deck surface 3, vertical
surface 153, and sidewalls 151. Thereafter, this single bent metal
piece is welded or otherwise rigidly affixed to bent beam
supporting members 161, 163 in order to provide ample support for
platform 234, brackets 157, and supports 15. Supports 15 are
mounted to members 161, 163 via substantially horizontally aligned
support surface 164 and mounting holes 165. The mower is designed
so that each member 161, 163 may be identical in manufacture with
regard to shape regardless of what side of the mower the piece ends
up on, thereby simplifying the manufacturing process for the mower.
Also, each member 161, 163 includes a support tab 167 bent
therefrom for providing rigidity and support to the handlebar
mounting surfaces 164. Mounting holes 169 are provided on each
sidewall 151 for enabling wheel motor brackets 157 to be affixed to
the sidewalls. Numerous holes 169 are provided so that the mounting
position of brackets 157 can be adjusted along with the vertical
position of the front caster wheels so as to adjust the height of
the cutter deck and thus the cut of the mower. Pivot hole 171 is
provided in certain embodiments in each sidewall 151 for the
purpose of pivotally mounting a thin pivotal sheet portion 234 (see
FIG. 16) within the FIG. 10 structure which is operatively
associated with a deadman switch so that the mower is automatically
stopped or turned off when the operator steps off of sheet 234
(e.g. metal sheet), the front of this platform sheet 234 resting on
portion 160.
[0078] FIGS. 11 and 12 illustrate cutting deck 1 below which the
grass cutting blade is rotatably mounted. FIG. 12 shows cutting
deck 1 mounted to engine deck 3, with the engine deck in dotted
lines. Cutting deck includes side substantially vertically oriented
edge wall 181 which is continuous all the way around the cutting
deck 1 except for at the grass throwing opening, apertures 183
through which pulley members protrude to a position beneath the
deck in order to drive the blades, vertically oriented supporting
walls 185 for mounting deck 1 to engine deck 3 via holes 187 which
have axes that are horizontally oriented, vertically extending
supporting wall portions 189, front cover supporting wall 191,
anti-scalp roller supporting members 193, and recess 195 within
which engine deck 3 fits and is mounted and allows the clutch to be
removed from the engine for easy maintenance.
[0079] FIG. 13 is a top view of cutter deck 1 as if the top surface
thereof was transparent, further illustrating walls 197 which
define the three different cutting cavities occupied by the three
different blades (e.g. reference numeral 184) under the deck. FIG.
14 is a top view of cutter deck 1, with each of FIGS. 13 and 14
showing the deck 1 of FIGS. 11-12.
[0080] FIG. 15 shows the grass-throwing opening 201 in cutter deck
1, with grass discharge opening 201 being defined in one side of
the cutter deck. The top surface 202 of cutter deck 1 is formed
along with frontwall 181 out of a single piece of sheet metal that
is bent as illustrated so as to define opening 201 therein. Walls
182 and 206 are also formed of a single metal sheet piece. Also
provided on cutter deck 1 adjacent discharge opening 201 are
support bar member 203 for stiffening and providing support for the
opening 201, bar 203 including an elongated portion extending
substantially from front wall 181 to rear wall 182 of the cutter
deck, and rear slot portion 204 bent from bar 203 for providing a
slot or pocket for a catcher pin, and support member 205 attached
to front wall 181 for supporting bar 203. Elongated bar 205
strengthens the front of the cutter deck, and is welded to 203.
Also, wall portion 206 is formed of the same piece of metal used to
form rear wall 182 with inner wall 206 being bent inwardly into
opening 201 so as to angle the cut grass into the grass catcher,
and to provide support for the catcher and the upper surface 202.
Wall 206 is supported at its rear edge by wall 197 which is either
welded thereto or formed integrally therewith so that wall 206 is
resistant to bending and the like when it should hit stones or the
like during mowing. Additional support 207 may be provided adjacent
the front of opening 201 adjacent front wall 181 in order to
prevent wall 181 from bending or the like upon hitting curbs,
trees, or stones during mowing, with support 207 being positioned
adjacent wall 181 between upper wall 202 and lower bent portion
208. Elements 197, 206, and 182 are baffles/walls which form a
substantially triangular support structure in order to strengthen
and support the skirt of the deck that is exposed by opening
201.
[0081] FIGS. 31-33 show grass catcher 211 pivotally attached to the
cutter deck opening 201 of FIG. 15. FIG. 31 shows additional
catcher bracket structure including grass chute deflector 212
pivotally attached to support 203 via support tabs 213 in a manner
such that deflector 212 does not have to be removed from cutter
deck 3 in order to attach a grass catcher thereto. Front support
tab 214 is welded or otherwise affixed to support 203 and the upper
surface 202 of cutter deck 1, with tab 214 including notch or
aperture 215 defined therein for receiving pin 216 that is rigidly
mounted to the front of catcher 211. Rear slot 204 receives rear
catcher pin 217 which simply may drop into slot 204 when catcher
211 is pivotally attached to the cutter deck 1. Referring still to
FIGS. 32-33, substantially L-shaped metal rigid members 218 and 219
are welded or otherwise rigidly affixed to catcher 211 for
supporting pins 216 and 217 respectively, with the pins being
welded to members 218 and 219 in certain embodiments, although
other types of attachment will also suffice. Catcher 211 includes
opening 220 defined therein which is aligned with deck opening 201
when the catcher is attached to the mower so that grass will be
blown or thrown from underneath the cutter deck outwardly through
opening 201 and into catcher 211 via catcher opening 220. Catcher
frame support bar 221 is provided at the rear of catcher opening
220 in order to define and support opening 220, and member 219 is
welded to bar 221 in certain embodiments. Additional elongated
frame members 222 are provided for catcher 211 in order to define
opening 220 and the catcher's shape, as well as to form a mounting
support for the screen or cloth which closes off the catcher to
hold cut grass.
[0082] FIG. 16 illustrates part of the deadman switch operatively
associated with the foot platform 18 in a manner such that when the
operator steps off of the platform the deadman switch causes the
mower blades to shut down or the mower to turn off. Preferably, the
engine is cut off and the cutting blades stopped when the switch is
actuated. The switch structure includes flange nut 231 tightened
against the upper surface of Z-shaped member 232, substantially
z-shaped member 232 whose position is adjustable relative to rod
233, rod 233 which is pulled down when the operator steps on
platform sheet 234 which is pivotally mounted in holes 171 (see
FIG. 10), nut 235 for adjusting the tension of spring 236 via
threads 236, washer 237 disposed between nut 235 and spring 236,
compression spring 236 for biasing/lifting platform sheet 234
unward off of the FIG. 10 surface 18 when the operator steps off of
the sheet and mower, base member 238 which is affixed (e.g. bolted)
to gas tank support 239 (when base 238 is unbolted from 239 and rod
233 is disengaged from tab 240, the subassembly is easy to work
with from a maintenance point of view), rubber washer 241 (e.g.
1/4" thick) acts as a bumper stop against member 238 when the
operator steps off of platform to prevent platform bouncing or
oscillation, fender washer 242 which backs up washer 241, R-clip
243 which fits through a hold in rod 233 and holds washers 241-242
from sliding down the rod, engine deck 3, aperture 245 defined in
the engine deck so that rod 233 can pass therethrough, and wherein
rod 233 is threaded at one end thereof and bent 246 at the other
end so as to fit through an aperture in tab 240, with an R-clip
being preferably through a hole in the end of rod 233 adjacent tab
246 to prevent the rod 233 from slipping out of the tab 240. Rod
233 is pivotally attached to tab 240. Platform sheet 234 is
pivotally attached to the FIG. 10 structure via 247. The FIG. 16
structure further includes switch plunger 248 and corresponding
electric switch 249 which clips into member 238.
[0083] The FIG. 16 deadman switch works as follows. When the
operator is standing on platform 18 and on platform sheet 234, the
sheet 234 is pivoted downward about pivot 247 under the weight of
the operator, and the mower may be run or operating. However, when
the operator steps off of sheet 234 of platform structure 18 when
the clutch switch is on, then spring 236 biases sheet 234 upward
along with rod 233 and member 232 [if the clutch switch is off,
then the deadman switch may do nothing in certain embodiments of
this invention]. When member 232 and rod 233 are biased upward in
such a manner, switch 249 is actuated which in turn causes the
mower's engine and/or blades to stop.
[0084] FIGS. 17 and 23-26 show a pump 31, 33 clamp and lever
assembly according to certain embodiments of this invention. This
system may be used either separate from the systems of FIGS. 3-7,
or in conjunction therewith on mowers herein. For example, linkage
member 251 may be the bottom portion of a lever 123 in the FIG. 7
system.
[0085] Referring to FIGS. 17 and 23-26, the pump control clamp and
lever assembly includes linkage member 251, 123 which may be
pivoted about an axis defined by shaft/rod 253 when levers 17 and
19 are manipulated by the operator, clamp 255 (FIG. 23 shows clamp
255 before it is bent and FIG. 17 after it is bent), bolts 256 and
257 which pass through the opening or cavity defined by the two
portions of bent clamp 255 (no welding is needed), and pump shaft
253 for controlling the speed and direction of hydro
(hydraulic/hydrostatic) motors via pump 31, 33. One of the
illustrated assemblies may be provided for each pump 31, 33.
[0086] Control linkage 251 bolts to claim 255 and acts as a lever
operatively coupled to rod(s) 75 and shaft(s) 253 for controlling
the pump(s) 31, 33. Bolt 256 extends through both clamp 255 and
through an aperture defined in linkage 251 so as to fixedly couple
linkage 251 to clamp 255 on shaft 253. Bolt 256 is larger than bolt
257 for strength reasons. Bolt 257 passes through linkage 251,
clamp 255, and an aperture 261 in shaft 253 in order to fixedly
couple the linkage to shaft 253 so that shaft 253 pivots and
controls the pump at issue when linkage 251 pivots. Elongated
coupling member 257 (e.g. bolt, screw, pin, or the like) also helps
keep clamp 255 from rotating on shaft 253 if the flat 262 on shaft
253 (which is part of the pump) were to strip for some reason.
Member 257 also positions the clamp along the shaft 253, as member
257 extends through the aperture 261 in the shaft and in between
the clamp walls to prevent the clamp from sliding off of the shaft
253. Member 257 also helps couple shaft 253 to clamp 255 which
includes aperture 263 defined therein in a shape adapted to match
and receive the flat 262 end portion of shaft 253. Flat washer 265
bridges across the gap in the bottom of clamp 255 so that nut 266
can tighten washer 265 against clamp 255 without falling or
slipping between the sidewalls of the clamp. Nut 266 may be of the
Nylon locking type in certain embodiments, as may nut 267. Nut 267
is larger than nut 266 so that it will not slip into the gap
between the sidewalls of clamp 255 (no washer is used adjacent nut
267 in certain embodiments). The clamping and lever assembly set
forth above is unique in that is provides and efficient and simple
way in which to allow linkage 251 to control pumps 31, 33, the
system not having breakdown problems and being easy to assemble,
and little if any welding is needed. In operation, when linkage 251
pivots, shaft 253 which is connected into a pump 31, 33 pivots with
it so that the pump may be controlled which in turn controls the
direction and speed of the drive wheel(s) 7. Pump shaft 253
controls the speed and direction of the hydro motors (one motor is
located in each bracket 157 for driving a rear drive wheel), and in
preferred embodiments is shaft 253 is actually part of each pump
31, 33.
[0087] FIGS. 18-20 show an anti-wheelie assembly for use in mowers
herein, this assembly for preventing the popping of severe wheelies
(flipping over of the mower backward) by the mower during
operation. FIG. 18 generally illustrates the FIG. 10 structure and
in addition thereto an anti-wheelie wheel 271 on each side of the
rear of the mower, a pair of wheel 271 supporting structures each
including a shoulder bolt 273 which tightens the wheel securely on
the mower but allows wheel 271 to turn, support 275 which maintains
plate 276 rigid and keeps it from bending and deflects the
operator's shoes when he/she steps off of the mower so that they do
not get hung up on nut 277, plate 276 for supporting and mounting a
wheel 271, wherein each plate 276 including three different
apertures 278 therein for allowing adjustment of wheel 271
position.
[0088] FIG. 19 shows the FIG. 18 mower backed up against curb 280,
and that the FIG. 18 anti-wheelie structure wheels 271 are
positioned high enough relative to the ground so that wheels 7 will
hit typical curbs prior to anti-wheelie wheels 271 hitting a curb
thereby lengthening the lifespan of the anti-wheelie structure.
Wheels 271 are also high enough to miss curbs so as to allow
tires/wheels 7 to climb over curbs.
[0089] FIG. 20 shows how the anti-wheelie structure of FIGS. 18-19
prevent the mower from tipping/flipping over backwards during
operation. As shown, because of wheels 271, if the mower should tip
backward or pop a wheelie, wheels 271 contact the ground as the
mower lifts off the ground at the front thereof thereby preventing
the mower from flipping over backward. The more weight that is put
on wheels 271, the more wheels 7 loose traction. The height of
wheels 271 may be adjusted by the operator so as to prevent
wheelies at predetermined angles of tipping. Anti-wheelie wheels
are set in the hole(s) corresponding to the height of the drive
wheels, which are also adjustable on the engine deck [the
anti-wheelie wheels are always the same distance from the ground
during certain embodiment]. Thus, when one adjusts the position of
the drive wheels on the engine deck, the vertical location of the
anti-wheelie wheels is adjusted so that the anti-wheelie wheels
always remain substantially the same distance from the ground so
that the wheels 7 can climb over curbs and the like. Also, the
exact angle at which wheels 271 first touch the ground to prevent
tipping can be adjusted by altering the height of wheels 271 via
holes 278. Also, you do not want wheels 271 located too far from
the ground so that line 281 does not become too close to the
vertical. Another advantage to wheels 271 as opposed to a bar or
the like, is that wheels 271 cannot dig into the ground thereby
functioning is a superior manner to prevent tipping.
[0090] In FIG. 20, the balance point 281 of the mower is shown.
Line or axis 281 is the line to the right of which the majority of
the mower's weight is located when wheels 271 become engaged with
the ground. Line 281 could also be said to be the balance point on
wheels 271. It is important that the majority of the weight of the
mower stay forward of line 281 to prevent tipping. Because the
majority of the mower's weight cannot pass beyond axis or point
281, the mower tips back forward. Axis 281 may be designed so as to
be angled forward of a vertical line on most terrain, by an angle
of from about 45-80 degrees. Thus, backward tipping is
prevented.
[0091] FIGS. 21 show a fuel tank support structure useable with
embodiments herein. FIG. 22 shows a support leg of FIG. 21 that may
be used either as a fuel tank support or as a support for
supporting a battery mounting plate. The same support legs 290 may
be used as both a battery support and a fuel tank support. Included
are support bracket 290, a radius 292 defined in an edge side of
bracket 290 near the path 299 of the deflector 212 when pivoted,
radius 293 in the other side/edge of bracket 290 for allowing room
for various engines and the like, mounting apertures 294 defined in
bracket 290 for oil filter mounting, mounting holes 295 in bracket
290 for platform switch base, base portion 296 of bracket 290 (FIG.
22 shows portion 296 prior to bending and FIG. 21 after bending for
affixing to the flat surface of engine deck), chute deflector 298,
212, and its path 299 avoiding bracket 290. Reference numeral 300
illustrates approximate engine 9 placement showing the need for
radius 293.
[0092] Notch 301 in an upper edge of bracket 290 is adapted to
received a strap in certain embodiments, when the FIG. 22 structure
is used for battery support.
[0093] As shown in FIG. 21 for fuel tank support, two brackets 290
are mounted on the engine deck, and are coupled together by, and
support, fuel tank platform 302 upon which the fuel tank is placed
during mower operation.
[0094] FIG. 27 illustrates an embodiment of this invention for
expanding the standing/foot area for the operator proximate
platform 234. Illustrated for only one of the two drive wheels
(there are two of course each including everything illustrated) are
hydro wheel motor 311 with front fluid ports 312, wheel motor
bracket 157, two hydraulic hoses 313 (one behind the other),
hydraulic fitting elbows 314 (one hidden), hydraulic fitting elbows
315 fitted into motor 311 (one hidden), threaded port 316, wheel
mounting hub 317, tire for wheel 7, wheel rim 318 with centered
spider (or alternatively with the spider offset out further),
engine deck 3, wheel spider 319 supports outer rim and for mounting
the wheel onto the hub, and operator standing area 18. As shown,
the illustrate inventive wheel structure adjacent the standing area
on the mower enables the wheel motor 311, and hub 317 to be
positioned between the sidewalls 151 and the outer edge of the
tires. This conserves space and allows for more operator room
between the tires.
[0095] FIG. 28 shows the cutter deck 1 of FIGS. 11-15, and a deck
belt cover 331 for resting thereon. This assembly includes cover
331 which rests on post members 332 and caps 333 when knobs 334 are
tightened down. This system is designed so that only two knobs 334
are needed and the system is resistant to rattling (other mowers
use many more knobs and/or are susceptible to rattle between the
cover and deck). Plastic caps 333 are provided on post members 332
to reduce noise from vibration, as the cover rests upon these caps.
Post members 332 may be welded to respective deck support walls 191
as illustrated. Threaded studs 335 are screwed or otherwise
attached into idler pivot pin 336 in order to align cover 331 and
knobs 334. Idler arms 339 rotate on pins 336. The tops of idler
pivot pins 336 are slightly lower in elevation than the tops of
caps 333 so that when cover 331 is tightened down via knobs 334 it
gives cover 331 more rigidity. Also, it has been found that the
system works better when the idler pins 336 are each located
proximate a line drawn between a pair of posts 332 on either side
of the center of the cutter deck. Another unique feature which
improves performance is the fact that the downward extending edge
wall 340 of cover 331 is positioned distanced from deck support
wall 191 so that a substantial space of gap is defined between wall
191 and wall 340, so that the only rigid or solid elements that the
cover contacts (other than the caps) are the tops of pins 336. This
reduces rattling, and improves design performance.
[0096] FIGS. 29-30 show front caster wheel structure according to
certain embodiments of this invention. Shown is only one wheel
structure, although two similar ones are provided. The caster
structure includes cross bar 350 welded to yoke 351 and pin 352 at
353 under the yoke to strengthen the yoke, yoke 351 to mount and
hold the front caster wheel(s) 5, caster pivot pin 352, lower end
353 of pin 352 where the pin is welded to bar 350, caster wheel 5,
and caster support member 355. Caster strength and performance is
improved by this design. As shown in FIG. 30, pin 352 extends
through yoke 351, so that its distal end (shown in dotted lines) is
welded to cross member 350 beneath the yoke cross member for added
strength and support. Furthermore, it is noted that member 350 must
be inserted and welded to pin 352 and yoke 351 on the side shown in
order to clear the wheel, due to the angular design of yoke
351.
[0097] Once given the above disclosure, various other
modifications, features, and/or improvements will become apparent
to the skilled artisan. Such other features, modifications, and
improvements are thus considered a part of this invention, the
scope of which is to be determined by the following claims.
* * * * *