Abstract:
A suspension system for use with a grounds maintenance vehicle such as a ride-on lawn mower. In one embodiment, the suspension system provide at least a first suspension apparatus positioned between a chassis of the mower and an operator support platform. The first suspension apparatus may include one or more suspension units that may be quickly reconfigured to provide variable suspension characteristics. The system may also include a second suspension apparatus longitudinally spaced-apart from the first suspension apparatus. A pivot member may be provided to assist in reducing or eliminating all but certain degrees of freedom of the platform relative to the chassis.
Abstract:
A vehicle combining the attributes of a tractor and a utility vehicle includes a three point linkage and other locations to which a plurality of attachments for performing grooming or working operations on a ground or turf surface may be couple. The vehicle includes a front mounted engine, a mid-mounted operator compartment and a rear mounted bed or box. A PTO shaft and/or a hydraulic power system of the vehicle power attachments that require power. A control system and a visual display and data entry device linked thereto are provided for allowing an authorized person to setup, store and thereafter use an operational profile for each attachment that is to be coupled to the vehicle. In a rate dependent attachment, the control system maintains the ground speed and the attachment implement in a fixed ratio. A down/up control is used to signal the start and end of an operational sequence to the control system.
Abstract:
A suspension system for use with a grounds maintenance vehicle such as a ride-on lawn mower. In one embodiment, the suspension system provide at least a first suspension apparatus positioned between a chassis of the mower and an operator support platform. The first suspension apparatus may include one or more suspension units that may be quickly reconfigured to provide variable suspension characteristics. The system may also include a second suspension apparatus longitudinally spaced-apart from the first suspension apparatus. A pivot member may be provided to assist in reducing or eliminating all but certain degrees of freedom of the platform relative to the chassis.