Patent Description:
Lawn mowers are widely used in gardening to trim lawn and vegetation. Lawn mowers generally include hand push lawn mowers and riding lawn mowers. A user sits on and drives the riding lawn mower to perform lawn mowing tasks, making lawn mowing more efficient and less tiring. How to improve the driving experience of the riding lawn mower has been a subject that engineers have been consistently working on.

<CIT> discloses a riding lawn mower and a control method therefor. The riding lawn mower comprises a seat and a power output assembly. The power output assembly comprises a mowing element and a power output motor for driving the mowing element to output power. The riding lawn mower further comprises a control assembly, an operation assembly comprising a steering wheel, a central controller and a position sensor, the position sensor being provided on the steering wheel and used for detecting a rotational operation action of a user on the operation assembly, the central controller being communicatively connected to the position sensor and acquiring a rotational operation instruction, and controlling a rear wheel by means of the walking controller to actively travel at a differential speed for steering.

The present invention is defined by the independent claim.

Advantageous embodiments are described in the dependent claims.

The present invention provides a riding lawn mower with an integrated steering wheel assembly to provide the user operating the riding lawn mower with a comfortable driving experience.

According to an embodiment, a riding lawn mower is provided including: a seat for a user to sit thereon; a chassis configured to support the seat; a cutting assembly mounted to the chassis, the cutting assembly including a cutting member for cutting grass; a walking assembly configured to drive the riding lawn mower to walk on a plane; and a steering wheel assembly, including a steering wheel operable by the user and a connecting rod configured to connect the steering wheel and the chassis; wherein the steering wheel assembly further includes a pivot assembly that rotatably connects the connecting rod and the chassis; the pivot assembly enables the steering wheel assembly to switch between a working position and a storage position; a distance between the steering wheel and the plane when the steering wheel assembly is in the storage position is smaller than a distance between the steering wheel and the plane when the steering wheel assembly is in the working position.

In one embodiment, the connecting rod has a first end connected with the steering wheel and a second end connected with the chassis through the pivot assembly.

In one embodiment, the riding lawn mower further includes a left cover member and a right cover member, the left cover member is located on a left side of the seat and the right cover member is located on a right side of the seat.

In one embodiment, the right cover member covers the pivot assembly.

In one embodiment, a height of the left cover member is lower than a height of the right cover member.

In one embodiment, when the steering wheel assembly is in the working position, a difference of a perpendicular distance from a highest point of the steering wheel assembly to the plane and a perpendicular distance from a sitting surface of the seat to the plane is greater than or equal to <NUM> and less than or equal to <NUM>.

In one embodiment, when the steering wheel assembly is in the working position, a perpendicular distance from a highest point of the steering wheel assembly to the plane is greater than or equal to <NUM> and less than or equal to <NUM>.

In one embodiment, when the steering wheel assembly is in the working position, a distance between orthographic projections of the steering wheel assembly and a back of the seat on the plane is greater than or equal to <NUM> and less than or equal to <NUM>.

In one embodiment, the steering wheel assembly further includes an adjustment device operable to adjust a height of the steering wheel.

In one embodiment, the riding lawn mower further includes a pedal assembly, the riding lawn mower has a central axis, the riding lawn mower is at least partially symmetrical about a central vertical plane passing through the central axis, the pedal assembly and the second end are located on a same side of the central vertical plane.

According to an embodiment, a riding lawn mower is provided including: a seat for a user to sit thereon; a chassis configured to support the seat; a cutting assembly mounted to the chassis, the cutting assembly including a cutting member for cutting grass; a walking assembly configured to drive the riding lawn mower to walk on a plane; a motor for driving the walking assembly; a steering wheel assembly, including a steering wheel operable by the user and a connecting rod configured to connect the steering wheel and the chassis; wherein the steering wheel assembly further includes: a mounting assembly, connecting the steering wheel and the connecting rod; a control circuit having a first state that permits the motor to start and a second state that prevents the motor from starting; and an operating member operable to switch the control circuit into the first state; the operating member is mounted to the steering wheel or the mounting assembly.

According to present invention, the operating member is coupled to a switch, and the operating member is operable to actuate the switch.

In one embodiment, when the switch is actuated by the operating member, the control circuit is switched into the first state.

In one embodiment, the operating member is at least one paddle shifter.

In one embodiment, when the user holds the steering wheel with a hand, the paddle shifter is triggerable by at least one finger of the hand.

In one embodiment, the operating member is a pair of paddle shifters, the pair of paddle shifters including a left paddle shifter and a right paddle shifter.

In one embodiment, when the user holds the steering wheel with both hands, the left paddle shifter is triggerable by at least one finger of a left hand and the right paddle shifter is triggerable by at least one finger of a right hand.

According to present invention, the riding lawn mower further includes a start button, when the start button is pressed and the switch is actuated by the operating member, the control circuit is switched into the first state.

In one embodiment, the steering assembly further includes a display interface, which has a printed circuit board, and a wire of the switch is electrically connected to the printed circuit board.

In one embodiment, the walking assembly includes at least one first walking wheel and at least one second walking wheel, the second walking wheel is driven by the motor and the first walking wheel is configured to rotate freely.

According to an embodiment, a riding lawn mower is provided including: a seat for a user to sit thereon; a chassis configured to support the seat; a cutting assembly mounted to the chassis, the cutting assembly including a cutting member for cutting grass; and a steering wheel assembly, including a steering wheel operable by the user and a connecting rod configured to connect the steering wheel and the chassis; wherein the steering wheel assembly further includes: a first circuit board mounted to the steering wheel assembly; a rotary shaft configured to form a synchronous rotation with the steering wheel; a mounting assembly that rotatably connects the steering wheel and the connecting rod; and a cable electrically connected to the first circuit board; wherein the rotary shaft has a through hole, and the cable passes through the through hole.

In one embodiment, the mounting assembly further includes a mounting box fixedly connected with the connecting rod and rotatably supporting the rotary shaft.

In one embodiment, the steering wheel assembly further includes a fixing plate, the fixing plate is fixed to the steering wheel, and the rotary shaft is fixedly coupled to the fixing plate.

In one embodiment, the fixing plate includes a stopper projection to limit an angle of rotation of the steering wheel.

In one embodiment, the rotary shaft is coupled with a magnetic element, the first circuit board has a position sensor that detects an angular position of the magnetic element.

In one embodiment, the cable is further electrically connected to a second circuit board.

In one embodiment, the steering wheel assembly further includes a display interface, the second circuit board is connected to the display interface.

In one embodiment, the steering wheel assembly further includes an operating member, the operating member is coupled to a switch, and a wire of the switch is electrically connected to the second circuit board.

In one embodiment, the steering wheel assembly further includes a damper, the rotary shaft and the damper transmit force through a belt drive.

In one embodiment, the riding lawn mower further includes a walking assembly, the walking assembly includes at least one first walking wheel and at least one second walking wheel, the second walking wheel is driven by a motor and the first walking wheel is configured to rotate freely.

According to an embodiment, a riding lawn mower is provided including: a seat for a user to sit thereon; a chassis configured to support the seat; a cutting assembly mounted to the chassis, the cutting assembly including a cutting member for cutting grass; and a steering wheel operable by the user to control a steering direction of the riding lawn mower; wherein the steering wheel is configured to rotate about a first axis; the steering wheel has a first limit position when rotating clockwise about the first axis, and a second limit position when rotating counterclockwise about the first axis, wherein an angle that the steering wheel rotates from the first limit position to the second limit position is less than or equal to <NUM> degrees.

In one embodiment, the steering wheel further has an initial position, an angle that the steering wheel rotates from the initial position to the first limit position is less than or equal to <NUM> degrees, an angle that the steering wheel rotates from the initial position to the second limit position is less than or equal to <NUM> degrees.

In one embodiment, the steering wheel has a gap or a transparent portion on a top side of the steering wheel.

In one embodiment, the steering wheel is substantially symmetrical about a second axis, the gap or the transparent portion is substantially symmetrical about the second axis.

In one embodiment, a length of the gap or the transparent portion is greater than or equal to <NUM>/<NUM> of a perimeter of the steering wheel and less than or equal to <NUM>/<NUM> of the perimeter of the steering wheel.

In one embodiment, the riding lawn mower further includes a display interface mounted on the steering wheel.

In one embodiment, the riding lawn mower further includes a paddle shifter mounted near the steering wheel.

In one embodiment, the steering wheel is coupled with a damper or a motor, which is configured to provide force feedback when the steering wheel is rotated.

In one embodiment, the riding lawn mower further includes a height adjustment device operable to adjust a height of the steering wheel.

According to an embodiment, a riding lawn mower is provided including: a seat for a user to sit thereon; a chassis configured to support the seat; a cutting assembly mounted to the chassis, the cutting assembly including a cutting member for cutting grass; and a steering wheel assembly, including a steering wheel operable by the user and a connecting rod configured to connect the steering wheel and the chassis; wherein the riding lawn mower further includes: a pedal assembly operable by the user to control a walking speed of the riding lawn mower; wherein the riding lawn mower has a central axis, the riding lawn mower is at least partially symmetrical about a central vertical plane passing through the central axis, and the connecting rod has a first end connected with the steering wheel and a second end connected with the chassis, the pedal assembly and the second end of the connecting rod are located on a same side of the central vertical plane.

In one embodiment, the riding lawn mower further includes a left cover member and a right cover member, the left cover member is located on a left side of the central vertical plane and the right cover member is located on a right side of the central vertical plane.

In one embodiment, the right cover member covers the second end of the connecting rod.

In one embodiment, the perpendicular distance from the left cover member to a plane on which the riding lawn mower walks is greater than or equal to <NUM> and less than or equal to <NUM>.

In one embodiment, the left cover member has an oblique top surface.

In one embodiment, a perpendicular distance from an outermost surface of the left cover member to the central vertical plane is greater than or equal to <NUM> and less than or equal to <NUM>.

In one embodiment, a distance between orthographic projections of a front end of the riding lawn mower and a rear end of the left cover member on a plane on which the riding lawn mower walks is greater than or equal to <NUM> and less than or equal to <NUM>.

In one embodiment, the riding lawn mower further includes a step bar mounted to the chassis, the step bar is located on an opposite side of central vertical plane to the pedal assembly.

In one embodiment, the step bar has a first position parallel to the chassis and a second position perpendicular to the chassis.

According to an embodiment, a riding lawn mower is provided including: a seat for a user to sit thereon; a chassis configured to support the seat; a cutting assembly mounted to the chassis, the cutting assembly including a cutting member for cutting grass; a walking assembly configured to drive the riding lawn mower to walk on a plane; a motor for driving the walking assembly; a steering wheel assembly, including a steering wheel operable by the user; wherein the riding lawn mower further includes: a control circuit configured to control the motor, the control circuit having a first state that permits the motor to rotate and a second state that prevents the motor from rotating; and an operating member operable to switch the control circuit into the first state; the operating member is mounted to the steering wheel.

In one embodiment, the control circuit further has a third state, in which the control circuit stops the motor and then permits the motor to rotate reversely, and the operating member operable to switch the control circuit into the third state.

In one embodiment, the operating member is at least one paddle shifter; when the control circuit is in the second state and the at least one paddle shifter is pressed, the control circuit is switched into the first state.

In one embodiment, when the control circuit is in the first state and the at least one paddle shifter remains pressed for a time period greater than or equal to a first time threshold, the control circuit is switched into the third state.

In one embodiment, when the control circuit is in the first state and the at least one paddle shifter remains pressed for a time period greater than or equal to a first time threshold, the control circuit determines if a rotational speed of the motor is less than or equal to a first velocity threshold, and if the rotational speed of the motor is less than or equal to the first velocity threshold, the control circuit is switched into the third state.

In one embodiment, when the control circuit is in the third state and the at least one paddle shifter is released, the control circuit is switched into the first state.

In one embodiment, a maximum rotational speed of the motor when the control circuit is in the third state is less than a maximum rotational speed of the motor when the control circuit is in the first state.

In one embodiment, a maximum turning angle of the riding lawn mower when the control circuit is in the third state is less than a maximum turning angle of the motor when the control circuit is in the first state.

In one embodiment, the riding lawn mower has a plurality of driving modes.

In one embodiment, an acceleration of the control circuit switching from the first state to the third state varies across the plurality of driving modes.

According to an embodiment, a display interface of a power tool is provided, including: a casing; and a screen layer accommodated in the casing; wherein the casing including a cover layer configured to protect and display the screen layer; the display interface further includes: a first seal and a second seal, the first seal seals a first chamber between the cover layer and the screen layer, the first seal and second seal seal a second chamber abutting the first chamber.

In one embodiment, the second chamber is between an inner wall of the casing and a side surface of the screen layer.

In one embodiment, the first seal and the second seal are flexible adhesives.

In one embodiment, a thickness of the cover layer is greater than <NUM> and less than or equal to <NUM>.

In one embodiment, a distance between the cover layer and the screen layer is greater than <NUM> and less than or equal to <NUM>.

In one embodiment, the cover layer and the casing are integrated into one piece. In one embodiment, the cover layer and the casing are capsulated.

In one embodiment, Nano coating is applied to both sides of the cover layer.

In one embodiment, the screen layer is an LCD screen or an LED screen.

In one embodiment, the cover layer is made of tempered glass or polycarbonate (PC) materials.

According to an embodiment, a display interface of a power tool is provided, including: a casing; a screen layer accommodated in the casing; and a printed circuit board disposed under the screen layer; wherein the casing including a cover layer configured to protect and display the screen layer; the display interface further includes: a seal applied between the screen layer and the casing; the seal seals a chamber at least including a space between the cover layer and the screen layer, and a height of the space between the cover layer and the screen layer is greater than <NUM> and less than or equal to <NUM>.

In one embodiment, the seal is made of flexible adhesives.

In one embodiment, the cover layer has a projecting portion, the casing is formed with a groove, the projecting portion mates with the groove.

In one embodiment, the cover layer and the casing are capsulated.

In one embodiment, the cover layer is made of tempered glass or polycarbonate (PC) materials. In one embodiment, the screen layer is an LCD screen or an LED screen.

In one embodiment, the cover layer and the casing are integrated into one piece.

In one embodiment, the screen layer includes a back layer, the back layer has a rib portion projecting toward the printed circuit board, and the seal is applied between the rib portion of the back layer and an inner wall of the casing.

According to an embodiment, a display interface of a power tool is provided, including: a casing; a printed circuit board accommodated in the casing, the printed circuit board has a plurality of light-emitting elements; and a light-guiding layer configured to guide light emitted by the plurality of light-emitting elements; wherein the display interface further includes: a seal applied between the printed circuit board and the casing, the seal being made of flexible adhesives.

In one embodiment, the light-guiding layer and the casing are integrated into one piece.

In one embodiment, the display interface further includes a sticker adhered to the casing or the light-guiding layer.

In one embodiment, a thickness of the casing is greater than <NUM> and less than or equal to <NUM>.

In one embodiment, the casing is made of tempered glass or polycarbonate (PC) materials.

According to an embodiment, a display interface of a power tool is provided, including: a casing; a screen layer accommodated in the casing; and wherein the display interface further includes: a seal applied between the screen layer and the casing, the seal being made of flexible adhesives.

In one embodiment, the casing includes a cover layer configured to protect and display the screen layer.

In one embodiment, the screen layer includes a rib portion, and the seal is applied between the rib portion and an inner wall of the casing.

According to an embodiment, a riding machine is provided, including: a seat for a user to sit thereon; a chassis configured to support the seat; a walking assembly configured to drive the riding machine to walk on a plane; and a steering wheel assembly, including a steering wheel operable by the user and a connecting rod configured to connect the steering wheel and the chassis; wherein the steering wheel assembly further includes a pivot assembly that rotatably connects the connecting rod and the chassis; the pivot assembly enables the steering wheel assembly to switch between a working position and a storage position; a distance between the steering wheel and the plane when the steering wheel assembly is in the storage position is smaller than a distance between the steering wheel and the plane when the steering wheel assembly is in the working position.

According to an embodiment, a riding machine is provided, including: a seat for a user to sit thereon; a chassis configured to support the seat; a walking assembly configured to drive the riding machine to walk on a plane; a motor for driving the walking assembly; and a steering wheel assembly, including a steering wheel operable by the user and a connecting rod configured to connect the steering wheel and the chassis; wherein the steering wheel assembly further includes: a mounting assembly, connecting the steering wheel and the connecting rod; a control circuit having a first state that permits the motor to start and a second state that prevents the motor from starting; and an operating member operable to switch the control circuit into the first state; the operating member is mounted to the steering wheel or the mounting assembly.

According to an embodiment, a riding machine is provided, including: a seat for a user to sit thereon; a chassis configured to support the seat; and a steering wheel assembly, including a steering wheel operable by the user and a connecting rod configured to connect the steering wheel and the chassis; wherein the steering wheel assembly further includes: a first circuit board mounted to the steering wheel assembly; a rotary shaft configured to form a synchronous rotation with the steering wheel; a mounting assembly that rotatably connects the steering wheel and the connecting rod; and a cable electrically connected to the first circuit board; wherein the rotary shaft has a through hole, and the cable passes through the through hole.

According to an embodiment, a riding machine is provided, including: a seat for a user to sit thereon; a chassis configured to support the seat; and a steering wheel operable by the user to control a steering direction of the riding machine; wherein the steering wheel is configured to rotate about a first axis; the steering wheel has a first limit position when rotating clockwise about the first axis, and a second limit position when rotating counterclockwise about the first axis, wherein an angle that the steering wheel rotates from the first limit position to the second limit position is less than or equal to <NUM> degrees.

According to an embodiment, a riding machine is provided, including: a seat for a user to sit thereon; a chassis configured to support the seat; and a steering wheel assembly, including a steering wheel operable by the user and a connecting rod configured to connect the steering wheel and the chassis; wherein the riding machine further includes: a pedal assembly operable by the user to control a walking speed of the riding machine; wherein the riding machine has a central axis, the riding machine is at least partially symmetrical about a central vertical plane passing through the central axis, and the connecting rod has a first end connected with the steering wheel and a second end connected with the chassis, the pedal assembly and the second end of the connecting rod are located on a same side of the central vertical plane.

According to an embodiment, a riding machine is provided, including: a seat for a user to sit thereon; a chassis configured to support the seat; a walking assembly configured to drive the riding machine to walk on a plane; a motor for driving the walking assembly; and a steering wheel assembly, including a steering wheel operable by the user; wherein the riding machine further includes: a control circuit configured to control the motor, the control circuit having a first state that permits the motor to rotate and a second state that prevents the motor from rotating; and an operating member operable to switch the control circuit into the first state; the operating member is mounted to the steering wheel.

As shown in <FIG>, a riding lawn mower <NUM> can be operated by a user sitting on the riding lawn mower <NUM> to effectively and quickly trim the lawn, vegetation, etc. Comparing with hand push/walk behind lawn mowers, the riding lawn mower <NUM> of the present invention does not require the user to push the machine, nor does it require the user to walk on the ground. Further, because of its large size, the riding lawn mower <NUM> is able to carry larger or more batteries, which brings a longer working time, so that the user can trim larger lawn areas, and trim for a longer time effortlessly. Furthermore, in terms of energy source, unlike existing riding lawn mowers, the riding lawn mower <NUM> uses electric energy rather than gasoline or diesel, thus the riding lawn mower <NUM> is more environmental friendly, cheaper in usage cost, and less prone to leakage, failure and maintenance.

It is appreciated that aspects of this invention are also applicable to riding machines of other types, as long as the riding machine can output power in other forms besides walking power in order to realize other functions besides walking, such as, for example, riding snow blowers, riding agricultural machines, and riding sweepers.

Those skilled in the art should understand that, in the disclosure of this invention, the terms "controller", "control unit", "module", "unit" and "processor" may include or relate to at least one of hardware or software.

Those skilled in the art should understand that, in the disclosure of this invention, the terms "up", "down", "front", "rear", "left", "right" and the like indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings, which are only for the convenience of describing the present invention, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore the above terms should not be understood as a limitation of the present invention.

Referring to <FIG>, the riding lawn mower <NUM> includes: a cutting assembly <NUM>, a walking assembly <NUM>, an operating assembly <NUM>, a power supply assembly <NUM>, a seat <NUM>, a chassis <NUM>, and a deck <NUM>. The chassis <NUM> is the main supporting frame of the riding lawn mower <NUM>, and the chassis <NUM> at least partially extends in a front and rear direction. The seat <NUM> is configured for a user to sit thereon, and the seat <NUM> is mounted on the chassis <NUM>. The deck <NUM> is configured to accommodate the cutting assembly <NUM>, and the deck <NUM> is installed under the chassis <NUM>.

According to <FIG>, the direction toward which the user sits on the seat <NUM> is defined as the front or the front side of the riding lawn mower <NUM>; and the direction opposite to the front is defined as the rear or rear side of the riding lawn mower <NUM>. The user's left hand direction is defined as the left or left side of the riding lawn mower <NUM>; and the user's right hand direction is defined as the right or right side of the riding lawn mower <NUM>. The direction toward the plane on which the riding lawn mower <NUM> walks is defined as the down or lower side of the riding lawn mower <NUM>; and the direction opposite to the down is defined as the up or upper side of the riding lawn mower <NUM>. Referring to <FIG>, the riding lawn mower has a central axis <NUM> extending in the longitudinal direction, or front and rear direction of the riding lawn mower <NUM>; the riding lawn mower is at least partially symmetrical about a central vertical plane <NUM> passing through the central axis <NUM>; the left side of the riding lawn mower <NUM> is on the left side of the vertical pane and the right side of the riding lawn mower <NUM> is on the right side of the vertical pane. The chassis <NUM> includes at least a left longitudinal beam <NUM> and a right longitudinal beam 161R extending in the longitudinal direction of the riding lawn mower <NUM>, wherein the left longitudinal beam <NUM> and right longitudinal beam 161R are respectively located on the left and right side of the riding lawn mower <NUM> and are symmetrical about the central vertical plane <NUM>. In some embodiments, the riding lawn mower <NUM> includes a left cover member l <NUM> and a right cover member l 62R, respectively located on the left side of the seat <NUM> and the right side of the seat <NUM>. The left cover member l <NUM> is mounted to the left longitudinal beam <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>; the right cover member 162R is mounted to the right longitudinal beam 161R of the chassis <NUM>.

The cutting assembly <NUM> includes a cutting member <NUM>, such as, for example, a blade, for realizing a cutting function. The cutting assembly <NUM> is mounted to the chassis <NUM>, under the deck <NUM>. In other words, the deck <NUM> forms a semi-opening accommodating cavity to accommodate the cutting member. The cutting assembly <NUM> further includes a cutting motor <NUM> for driving the cutting member <NUM> to rotate. The cutting assembly <NUM> may include more than one cutting members <NUM> and more than one cutting motors <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, in one embodiment, the riding lawn mower <NUM> includes two cutting members <NUM> and two cutting motors <NUM>. The deck <NUM> forms two accommodating cavities to accommodate the two cutting members <NUM>, respectively. The cutting motors <NUM> are controlled by a cutting control module. In some embodiments, the cutting control module includes a control chip, such as MCU, ARM, and so on.

The walking assembly <NUM> is configured to enable the riding lawn mower <NUM> to walk on the ground. The walking assembly <NUM> may include at least one first walking wheel <NUM> and at least one second walking wheel <NUM>, for example, two second walking wheels <NUM>, namely a left second walking wheel <NUM> and a right second walking wheel 122R. The first walking wheel <NUM> is configured to rotate freely. The first walking wheel <NUM> has a first diameter; the second walking wheel <NUM> has a second diameter larger than the first diameter. The walking assembly <NUM> may also include at least one walking motor <NUM>, for example, two walking motors <NUM>, namely a left walking motor <NUM> and a right walking motor 123R, for driving the second walking wheel <NUM>. In this way, when the two walking motors <NUM> drive the corresponding second walking wheels <NUM> to rotate at different speeds, a speed difference is generated between the two second walking wheels <NUM>, so as to steer the riding lawn mower <NUM>. The walking motor <NUM> is controlled by a walking control module <NUM>. In some embodiments, the walking control module <NUM> includes a control chip, such as MCU, ARM, and so on. In one embodiment, two walking control modules <NUM> control the two walking motors <NUM>, respectively.

The power supply assembly <NUM> is configured to supply electric power to the riding lawn mower <NUM>. The power supply assembly <NUM> is configured to at least supply electric power to the cutting motors <NUM> and the walking motors <NUM>. The power supply assembly <NUM> may also supply electric power to other electronic components in the riding lawn mower <NUM>, such as the cutting control module <NUM> and the walking control module <NUM>. The power supply assembly <NUM> may also supply electric power to a lighting assembly <NUM>. In some embodiments, the power supply assembly <NUM> is
provided on the rear side of the seat <NUM> on the chassis <NUM>. In some embodiments, the power supply assembly <NUM> includes a plurality of battery packs <NUM> capable of supplying electric power to the riding lawn mower <NUM>.

In one construction, the power supply assembly <NUM> includes six battery packs <NUM>, and the six battery packs <NUM> are disposed on the rear side of the seat <NUM>. The six first battery packs <NUM> are arranged in a battery pack compartment <NUM> on the rear side of the seat <NUM>. Further, the battery pack compartment <NUM> is divided into six sub battery pack compartments <NUM>, into which the six battery packs <NUM> are mounted. More specifically, the six battery packs <NUM> are arranged in three rows and two columns. The dimension of the battery pack <NUM> in the left and right direction is greater than the dimension of the battery pack <NUM> in the front and rear direction. Thus, the dimension of the six battery packs <NUM> in three rows and two columns is not too large in the front and rear direction so as not to increase the size of the riding lawn mower <NUM> in the front and rear direction, and not too small in the left and right direction so as to effectively utilize the space occupied by the riding lawn mower <NUM> in the left and right direction. Thereby, the power supply assembly <NUM> provides enough battery capacity for powering the riding lawn mower <NUM>, and the arrangement of the power supply assembly <NUM> is reasonable and space-saving. Other constructions may also be adopted if appropriate.

The operating assembly <NUM> is operable by the user, and the user sends control instructions through the operating assembly <NUM> to control the operation of the riding lawn mower <NUM>. The operating assembly <NUM> can be operated by the user to set the cutting speed, walking speed, walking direction, etc. of the riding lawn mower <NUM>. In other words, the operating assembly <NUM> can be operated by the user to set an operating status for the riding lawn mower <NUM>, wherein the operating status includes a cutting status and a walking status.

The operating assembly <NUM> may include at least one switch triggerable to change its state so as to set the riding lawn mower <NUM> in different status. In one embodiment, a seat switch (not shown) arranged under the seat <NUM> is configured to set the riding lawn mower <NUM> in a bootable state when the user is sitting on the seat, and set the riding lawn mower <NUM> in a non-bootable state when no one is sitting on the seat. A start button <NUM> is configured to start the riding lawn mower <NUM> when the user presses the start button <NUM>, and stop the riding lawn mower <NUM> when the user presses the start button <NUM> again. A key switch <NUM> is configured to start the walking motor <NUM> when the user inserts a key and rotates the key to the on position, and stop the walking motor <NUM> when the user rotates the key to the off position or pulls the key out. A blade actuator <NUM> is configured to make the cutting member <NUM> rotate when the user lifts the blade actuator <NUM> up and stop the cutting member <NUM> when the user presses the blade actuator <NUM> down. The start button <NUM>, the key switch <NUM>, and the blade actuator <NUM> may be arranged on the left cover member <NUM> or the right cover member 162R so that they are easily reachable by the user's hand when the user is sitting on the seat <NUM>. In one embodiment, the start button <NUM> and the key switch <NUM>, and the blade actuator <NUM> are all arranged on the right cover member 162R, and the left cover member <NUM> is left blank so that the user can rest one hand on the left cover member <NUM> when the user hops onto the riding lawn mower <NUM> from the left side of the riding lawn mower <NUM>.

The operating assembly <NUM> may further include a combination of one or more operating mechanisms such as pedal, lever, handle, and steering wheel. In one embodiment, a pedal assembly <NUM> combined with a steering wheel assembly <NUM> is configured to set up a system for the user to control at least the walking function of the riding lawn mower <NUM>. The pedal assembly <NUM> controls the walking speed of the riding lawn mower <NUM> and the steering wheel assembly <NUM> controls the walking direction of the riding lawn mower <NUM>.

The steering wheel assembly provided in this present invention makes a smaller packing dimension during transportation and storage of the riding lawn mower, allows the user to hop on and off the riding lawn mower more easily and to have a larger visibility area when sitting on the riding lawn mower. The steering wheel assembly provided in this present invention also improves the functional safety of operating members and the anti-fogging effect of the display interface.

In one embodiment, the steering wheel assembly <NUM> includes a steering wheel <NUM> operable to rotate about a first axis <NUM> and a connecting rod <NUM> configured to connect the steering wheel <NUM> and the chassis <NUM>. The connecting rod <NUM> has a first end <NUM> connected with the steering wheel <NUM> and a second end <NUM> connected with the chassis <NUM>. In one embodiment, the steering wheel assembly <NUM> further includes a pivot assembly <NUM> that rotatably connects the connecting rod <NUM> and the chassis <NUM>. In one embodiment, the pivot assembly <NUM> rotatably connects the second end <NUM> of the connecting rod <NUM> to the chassis. Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the pivot assembly <NUM> includes a first part <NUM> fixedly connected with the chassis, and a second part <NUM> fixedly connected with the second end <NUM> of the connecting rod <NUM>. The first part <NUM> and the second part <NUM> are movably connected with each other, for example, through a hinge structure. Thereby, the pivot assembly <NUM> enables the steering wheel assembly <NUM> to switch between a working position and a storage position. It should be understood that, the pivot assembly <NUM> may also be provided in other portions of the connecting rod <NUM> to make at least part of the connecting rod <NUM> rotatable, thereby achieving the same function that the steering wheel assembly <NUM> is switchable between a working position and a storage position.

As shown in FIG. I, in the working position, the connecting rod <NUM> is erected, lifting the steering wheel <NUM> up, so that when the user is sitting up straight on the seat, the user holds the steering wheel <NUM> with both hands comfortably. As shown in <FIG>, in the storage position, the connecting rod <NUM> is lied down on the chassis <NUM>, so that during storage and transportation, the riding lawn mower <NUM> takes up less space. The distance between the steering wheel <NUM> and the plane on which the riding lawn mower <NUM> walks when the steering wheel assembly <NUM> is in the storage position is smaller than the distance between the steering wheel <NUM> and the plane when the steering wheel assembly <NUM> is in the working position. As shown in <FIG>, in one construction, to secure the steering wheel assembly <NUM> in the working position, the first part <NUM> and the second part <NUM> of the pivot assembly <NUM> are fixed to each other through at least one fastener, such as, for example, four long bolts. As shown in <FIG>, in one construction, to make the steering wheel assembly <NUM> in the storage position, the at least one fastener is released so that the first part <NUM> and the second part <NUM> of the pivot assembly <NUM> can rotate relative to each other. It is noted that, the transformation of the steering wheel assembly <NUM> between the storage position and the working position is not very swift, because such transformation is not often required, and the disclosed structure makes the connection between the second end <NUM> of the connecting rod <NUM> and the chassis <NUM> stable and secure, improving the mechanical reliability of the steering wheel assembly <NUM>. Besides, the disclosed structure also has low production cost and low maintenance cost.

In some embodiments, the pedal assembly <NUM> and the second end <NUM> of the connecting rod <NUM> are located on a same side of the central vertical plane <NUM> that passes through the central axis <NUM> of the riding lawn mower <NUM>. In one construction, to accommodate the driving habit of most users, the pedal assembly <NUM> is arranged on the right side of the central vertical plane <NUM> so that the user can operate the pedal assembly <NUM> without an effort. At this time, the second end <NUM> of the connecting rod <NUM> is also arranged on the right side of the central vertical plane <NUM>. In one embodiment, the connecting rod <NUM> is arranged on the right side of the central vertical plane <NUM>. In one embodiment, the second end <NUM> of connecting rod <NUM> is mounted to the right side of the riding lawn mower <NUM>. In one embodiment, the second end <NUM> of connecting rod <NUM> is connected with the pivot assembly <NUM> and the pivot assembly <NUM> is mounted to the right longitudinal beam 161R of the chassis <NUM>. Aligning the pedal assembly <NUM> and the second end <NUM> of the connecting rod <NUM> on the same side of the central vertical plane <NUM> makes the other side of the central vertical plane <NUM> clean, so that the user encounters fewer obstacles when hopping on the riding lawn mower <NUM> from the other side of the central vertical plane <NUM>. In addition, the connecting rod <NUM> provides some sort of protection for the user's foot reaching out to the pedal assembly <NUM>.

In one embodiment, a cover piece covers the pivot assembly <NUM> when the steering wheel assembly <NUM> is in the working position. In one embodiment, the right cover member 162R covers the pivot assembly <NUM>. In some embodiments, the left cover member <NUM> and the right cover member 162R have a similar height to a sitting surface of the seat <NUM>; In one embodiment, the left cover member <NUM> and the right cover member 162R have a lower height to the sitting surface of the seat <NUM>. Besides the covering function, the left cover member <NUM> and the right cover member 162R may support at least one of operating members or accessories, which are easily accessed by the user's hands when the user is sitting on the seat <NUM>. In one embodiment, the left cover member <NUM> or the right cover member 162R may provide a cup holder <NUM> to accommodate the user's cup; the left cover member <NUM> or the right cover member 162R may provide a cell phone holder <NUM> to accommodate the user's cell phone; the left cover member <NUM> or the right cover member 162R may provide a charging port <NUM> to charge the user's electronic devices, such as the cell phone, on the go. The left cover member <NUM> and the right cover member 162R may further provide triggers, switches, or buttons, i.e., members of the operating assembly <NUM>, to allow the user to manipulate the riding lawn mower <NUM> more conveniently.

In some embodiments, the left cover member <NUM> and the right cover member 162R are not symmetrical. As discussed before, the user may prefer to hop onto the riding lawn mower <NUM> from one side, i.e., the left side of the riding lawn mower <NUM>, due to the obstacle of the operating assembly <NUM> on the other side of the riding lawn mower <NUM>, i.e., the connecting rod <NUM> of the steering wheel assembly <NUM> on the right side of the riding lawn mower <NUM>. Therefore, the left cover member <NUM> has a lower height than the right cover member 162R. However, the height of the left cover member <NUM> shall not be too low for balancing the overall structure of the riding lawn mower <NUM>. Referring to <FIG>, in one embodiment, the perpendicular distance DI from the left cover member <NUM> to the plane on which the riding lawn mower <NUM> walks is greater than or equal to <NUM> and less than or equal to <NUM>. In one embodiment, the perpendicular distance DI from the left cover member <NUM> to the plane on which the riding lawn mower <NUM> walks is greater than or equal to <NUM> and less than or equal to <NUM>. In one embodiment, the perpendicular distance DI from the left cover member <NUM> to the plane on which the riding lawn mower <NUM> walks is about <NUM>. In one embodiment, the left cover member <NUM> has an oblique top surface, that is, the height of the front side of which is lower than the height of the rear side of the same, making the overall height of the left cover member <NUM> lower than that of the right cover member 162R. In this way, the user can hop onto the riding lawn mower <NUM> from the left side of the riding lawn mower <NUM> more obstaclefree.

Further, reducing the distance that the user needs to cross before the user gets seated may also ease the difficulty in getting onto the riding lawn mower <NUM>, while not sacrificing the width of the riding lawn mower <NUM>. In one embodiment, the perpendicular distance D2 from the outermost surface of the left cover member <NUM> to the central vertical plane <NUM> is greater than or equal to <NUM> and less than or equal to <NUM>. In one embodiment, the perpendicular distance D2 from the outermost surface of the left cover member <NUM> to the central vertical plane <NUM> is greater than or equal to <NUM> and less than or equal to <NUM>. In one embodiment, the perpendicular distance D2 from the outermost surface of the left cover member <NUM> to the central vertical plane <NUM> is greater than or equal to <NUM> and less than or equal to <NUM>. In one embodiment, the perpendicular distance from the outermost surface of the left cover member <NUM> is about <NUM>. Also, for users with taller heights and longer legs, the area that the user gets on and off the riding lawn mower <NUM> should be wide enough. Referring to <FIG>, in one embodiment, the distance D3 between orthographic projections of the front end of the riding lawn mower <NUM> and the rear end of the left cover member <NUM> on the plane on which the riding lawn mower <NUM> walks is greater than or equal to <NUM> and less than or equal to <NUM>. In one embodiment, the distance D3 between orthographic projections of the front end of the riding lawn mower <NUM> and the rear end of the left cover member <NUM> on the plane on which the riding lawn mower <NUM> walks is greater than or equal to <NUM> and less than or equal to <NUM>. In one embodiment, the distance D3 between orthographic projections of the front end of the riding lawn mower <NUM> and the rear end of the left cover member <NUM> on the plane on which the riding lawn mower <NUM> walks is about <NUM>. <FIG> show a user <NUM> tall; for users with lower heights or shorter legs, the area that the user gets on and off the riding lawn mower <NUM> is more spacious.

To further assist the user in getting onto the riding lawn mower <NUM>, in some embodiments, as shown in <FIG>, the riding lawn mower <NUM> further includes a step bar <NUM> mounted to the chassis <NUM>, wherein the step bar <NUM> is located on an opposite side of central vertical plane <NUM> to the pedal assembly. In one embodiment, the steering wheel assembly <NUM> and the pedal assembly are mounted to the left side of the riding lawn mower <NUM>, whereas step bar <NUM> is mounted to the right side of the riding lawn mower <NUM>. In one embodiment, the step bar <NUM> is mounted to the right longitudinal beam 161R. In one embodiment, the step bar <NUM> is foldable; specifically, the step bar <NUM> is rotatably mounted to the right longitudinal beam 161R through a hinge structure. The step bar <NUM> has a first position and a second position: in the first position, the step bar <NUM> is parallel to the chassis, wherein the step bar <NUM> extends out from the right longitudinal beam 161R, the user can step on the step bar <NUM> when getting onto the riding lawn mower <NUM>; in the second position, the step bar <NUM> is perpendicular to the chassis, wherein the step bar <NUM> clings to the right longitudinal beam 161R to save space.

In one embodiment, the operating assembly <NUM> further includes a control panel <NUM>. The control panel <NUM> may include a plurality of buttons, wherein different buttons correspond to different commands. The buttons of the control panel <NUM> may include a lighting button configured to enable or disable the lighting assembly <NUM>, a mode button configured to select and set a driving mode of the riding lawn mower <NUM>, a configuration button configured to modify the various settings of the riding lawn mower <NUM>, and a speed regulator button to increase or decrease the walking or cutting speed of the riding lawn mower <NUM>. The operating assembly <NUM> may also include a display interface <NUM>, which displays the operating status of the riding lawn mower <NUM>. The display interface <NUM> can display the walking speed of the walking assembly, the rotational speed of the cutting assembly, the energy efficiency status of the riding lawn mower <NUM>, the remaining capacity of the power supply assembly <NUM>, warning information, fault information, and so on.

In one construction, the control panel <NUM> and the display interface <NUM> are integrated with the steering wheel assembly <NUM>. Referring to <FIG>, the control panel <NUM> is arranged in the centre of the steering wheel <NUM>, and the display interface <NUM> is arranged in the center of the control panel
<NUM>. In one construction, the steering wheel <NUM> is substantially symmetrical about a second axis <NUM>; the control panel <NUM> is also substantially symmetrical about the second axis <NUM>; the display interface <NUM> is also substantially symmetrical about the second axis <NUM>. In one construction, the buttons of the control panel <NUM> are distributed around the display interface <NUM>. In one construction, the display interface <NUM> is substantially rectangular, the size L2 of the display interface <NUM> in the length direction is greater than or equal to <NUM> and less than or equal to <NUM>, and the size L3 of the display interface <NUM> in the width direction is greater than or equal to <NUM> and less than or equal to <NUM>. The area of the display interface <NUM> is greater than or equal to <NUM> square centimeters and less than or equal to <NUM> square centimeters. In this way, the size of the display interface <NUM> is large enough to display enough information, and at the same time, small enough to fit in the center of the control panel <NUM>, which fit in the center of the steering wheel <NUM>. In one embodiment, the display interface <NUM> may also be an interactive display interface, which is enabled to receive user instructions. The user inputs different control commands through the control panel <NUM> and/or the display interface <NUM> to control the walking and cutting function of the riding lawn mower <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, rather than a traditional circle steering wheel <NUM>, the outer frame of the steering wheel <NUM> is more of the shape of an oval. In this way, on the one hand, the outer frame of the steering wheel <NUM> surrounds the rectangular display interface <NUM> or the control panel <NUM> more evenly, leaving a generally equal distance between the outer frame of the steering wheel <NUM> and the control panel <NUM>, thereby providing the user with more choices on which portion of the steering wheel <NUM> to grip or hold. On the other hand, unlike a circle, an oval does not have uniform diameters, so the outer frame of the steering wheel <NUM> has a larger dimension defined as its width and a smaller dimension defined as its height. The larger dimension allows a generous width of the steering wheel <NUM> so that the user holds the steering wheel <NUM> with both hands more comfortably; the smaller dimension allows a lower height of the steering wheel <NUM> so that a clearer view is left for the user to observe the environment.

Further, the steering wheel <NUM> is formed with a gap <NUM> on the top side of the steering wheel <NUM>, wherein the gap <NUM> is also substantially symmetrical about the second axis <NUM>. The gap <NUM> further removes obstacles in the user's sight, leaving user's sight unblocked. The outer frame of the steering wheel <NUM> is disconnected due to the gap <NUM>, and the disconnected ends are shaped for the user to grip. In one embodiment, the gap <NUM> can be replaced by a transparent portion. That is, the outer frame of the steering wheel <NUM> is still continuous, but the top side of the steering wheel <NUM> is made of transparent materials. In one embodiment, the length of the gap <NUM> or the transparent portion is greater than or equal to <NUM>/<NUM> of a perimeter of the steering wheel <NUM> and less than or equal to <NUM>/<NUM> of the perimeter of the steering wheel <NUM>. In one embodiment, the length of the gap <NUM> or the transparent portion is greater than or equal to <NUM>/<NUM> of a perimeter of the steering wheel <NUM> and less than or equal to <NUM>/<NUM> of the perimeter of the steering wheel <NUM>.

In order to further enlarge the view of the user, the position of the steering wheel assembly <NUM> in the working position is carefully designed. Referring to <FIG>, the height of the steering wheel assembly <NUM> may be defined as the perpendicular distance D4 from a highest point of the steering wheel assembly <NUM> to the plane on which the riding lawn mower <NUM> walks. The lower the height of the steering wheel assembly <NUM>, the better the view of the user, however, when the height of the steering wheel assembly <NUM> is too low, the operating experience of the steering wheel assembly <NUM> may suffer. In one embodiment, when the steering wheel assembly <NUM> is in the working position, the perpendicular distance D4 from a highest point of the steering wheel assembly <NUM> to the plane on which the riding lawn mower <NUM> walks is greater than or equal to <NUM> and less than or equal to <NUM>. In one embodiment, when the steering wheel assembly <NUM> is in the working position, the perpendicular distance D4 from a highest point of the steering wheel assembly <NUM> to the plane on which the riding lawn mower <NUM> walks is greater than or equal to <NUM> and less than or equal to <NUM>. In one embodiment, when the steering wheel assembly <NUM> is in the working position, the perpendicular distance D4 from a highest point of the steering wheel assembly <NUM> to the plane on which the riding lawn mower <NUM> walks is about <NUM>.

Similarly, the difference of the height of the steering wheel assembly <NUM> and the height of the sitting surface of the seat, i.e., the height difference of the steering wheel assembly <NUM> and the sitting surface of the seat, also affects user's view. The smaller the height difference, the better the view of the user, however, when the height difference is too small, the legroom may be insufficient, causing an uncomfortable sitting experience. In one embodiment, when the steering wheel assembly <NUM> is in the working position, the difference D5 of a perpendicular distance from a highest point of the steering wheel assembly <NUM> to the plane on which the riding lawn mower <NUM> walks and a perpendicular distance from the sitting surface of the seat to the plane on which the riding lawn mower <NUM> walks is greater than or equal to <NUM> and less than or equal to <NUM>. In one embodiment, when the steering wheel assembly <NUM> is in the working position, the difference D5 of a perpendicular distance from a highest point of the steering wheel assembly <NUM> to the plane on which the riding lawn mower <NUM> walks and a perpendicular distance from the sitting surface of the seat to the plane on which the riding lawn mower <NUM> walks is greater than or equal to <NUM> and less than or equal to <NUM>. In one embodiment, when the steering wheel assembly <NUM> is in the working position, the difference D5 of a perpendicular distance from a highest point of the steering wheel assembly <NUM> to the plane on which the riding lawn mower <NUM> walks and a perpendicular distance from the sitting surface of the seat to the plane on which the riding lawn mower <NUM> walks is about <NUM>.

Further, the distance between the steering wheel assembly <NUM> and a back of the seat may also affect the user's view, assuming that the user sits back when operating the riding lawn mower <NUM>. The closer the distance between the steering wheel assembly <NUM> and the back of the seat, the better the view of the user, however, if the distance between the steering wheel assembly <NUM> and the back of the seat is too small, either the sitting area of the seat is too small or the steering wheel assembly <NUM> is too close to the user's chest, causing an uncomfortable sitting experience or operating experience of the steering wheel assembly <NUM>. In one embodiment, when the steering wheel assembly <NUM> is in the working position, the distance D6 between orthographic projections of the steering wheel assembly <NUM> and the back of the seat on the plane on which the riding lawn mower <NUM> walks is greater than or equal to <NUM> and less than or equal to <NUM>. In one embodiment, when the steering wheel assembly <NUM> is in the working position, the distance D6 between orthographic projections of the steering wheel assembly <NUM> and the back of the seat on the plane on which the riding lawn mower <NUM> walks is greater than or equal to <NUM> and less than or equal to <NUM>. In one embodiment, when the steering wheel assembly <NUM> is in the working position, the distance D6 between orthographic projections of the steering wheel assembly <NUM> and the back of the seat on the plane on which the riding lawn mower <NUM> walks is <NUM>.

In an embodiment, the seat <NUM> is adjustable in the front and back direction of the riding lawn mower <NUM>. An eye position scope <NUM> is depicted in <FIG> to represent the possible eye positions of users of different heights. The user depicted in <FIG> is <NUM> tall, so his eyes are located in the upper portion of the eye position scope. The eyes of a tall user may be located in point A, thus the line of sight from point A is 1002A, and the user is able to observe the area further than 1002A, leaving the area between 1002A and the riding lawn mower <NUM> the blind area. The eyes of a short user may be located in point B, thus the line of sight from point B is 1002B, and the user is able to observe the area further than 1002B, leaving the area between 1002B and the riding lawn mower <NUM> the blind area. The blind area of a short user is larger than the blind area of a tall user, that is, a tall user can observe the lawn more nearby to the riding lawn mower <NUM> than a short user. To alleviate this problem, the riding lawn mower <NUM> is further provided with an adjustment device to move the seat <NUM> in the front and back direction of the riding lawn mower <NUM>. Therefore, the eyes of a short user, which originally located in point B, are moved to point C, if the user operates the adjustment device to move the seat <NUM> to the front. Thus the line of sight from point C is 1002C, and the user is able to observe the area further than 1002C, leaving the area between 1002C and the riding lawn mower <NUM>, i.e., the blind area, smaller.

In one embodiment, the operating assembly <NUM> further includes an operating member <NUM> operable by the user to control at least a control circuit <NUM> of the riding lawn mower <NUM>. Specifically, the control circuit <NUM> has at least a first state <NUM> that permits the walking motor <NUM> to start and a second state <NUM> that prevents the walking motor <NUM> from starting. When the riding lawn mower is powered on, i.e., the key is inserted and rotated to the on position, the control circuit <NUM> is in the second state <NUM>, and the operating member <NUM> is operable to switch the control circuit <NUM> into the first state <NUM>. In some embodiments, the operating member <NUM> is at least one paddle shifter
<NUM>. Referring to <FIG>, the operating member <NUM> is a pair of paddle shifters <NUM>, respectively a left paddle shifter <NUM> and a right paddle shifter 139R. The steering wheel assembly <NUM> further includes a mounting assembly that rotatably connects the steering wheel <NUM> and the connecting rod <NUM>. In one construction, the paddle shifters <NUM> are mounted to the steering wheel <NUM>. In another construction, the paddle shifters <NUM> are mounted to the mounting assembly. In one embodiment, the left paddle shifter <NUM> and the right paddle shifter 139R are mounted to the casing of the control panel <NUM> or the display interface <NUM>, the left paddle shifter <NUM> extends to the left side of the riding lawn mower <NUM>, the right paddle shifter 139R extends to the right side of the riding lawn mower <NUM>, so that when the user holds the steering wheel <NUM> with both hands, the left paddle shifter <NUM> is triggerable by at least one finger of a left hand and the right paddle shifter 139R is triggerable by at least one finger of a right hand. When operating the paddle shifters <NUM>, the user's hands don't need to leave the steering wheel <NUM>; therefore operations to the paddle shifters <NUM> are handy when the user is driving the riding lawn mower <NUM>.

According to present invention, the operating member <NUM> is coupled to a switch <NUM>, the operating member <NUM> is operable to actuate the switch <NUM>; when the switch <NUM> is actuated by the operating member <NUM>, the control circuit <NUM> is switched into the first state <NUM>. Specifically, as shown in <FIG>, the left paddle shifter <NUM> is coupled to a transmission lever <NUM>. The transmission lever <NUM> has a first end <NUM> coupled to left paddle shifter <NUM> and a second end <NUM> coupled to the contact of the switch <NUM>, such as a snap-action switch. When the left paddle shifter <NUM> is pressed, the transmission lever <NUM> presses the contact of the switch <NUM>, and the switch <NUM> sends a start signal to the control circuit <NUM>. The same structure applies to the right paddle shifter 139R.

Referring to <FIG>, when the riding lawn mower is powered on, for example, the key in inserted and rotated to the on position, the control circuit <NUM> is in the second state <NUM>. In one embodiment, the control circuit <NUM> is switched into the first state <NUM> when the user operates the operating member <NUM>, i.e., the at least one paddle shifter <NUM> to send a start signal. In one embodiment, the control circuit <NUM> is switched into the first state <NUM> when both start signals from the left paddle shifter <NUM> and the right paddle shifter 139R are received. In one embodiment, the control circuit <NUM> is switched into the first state <NUM> when both start signals from the left paddle shifter <NUM> and the right paddle shifter 139R are received substantially at the same time, i.e., the time stamps of the start signals from the left paddle shifter <NUM> and the right paddle shifter 139R has a time difference within a certain time threshold. According to present invention, the riding lawn mower <NUM> further includes the start button <NUM>, when the start button <NUM> is pressed and the switch is actuated by the operating member <NUM>, the control circuit <NUM> is switched into the first state <NUM>. In the first state <NUM>, the user operates the pedal assembly <NUM> and the steering wheel assembly <NUM> to control the walking speed and the walking direction of the riding lawn mower <NUM> when walking forwardly.

In one embodiment, the control circuit <NUM> further has a third state <NUM>, in which the control circuit <NUM> stops the walking motor <NUM> and then permits the walking motor <NUM> to rotate reversely. The operating member <NUM> is operable to switch the control circuit <NUM> into the third state <NUM>. When the control circuit <NUM> is in the first state <NUM>, and the at least one paddle shifter <NUM> remains pressed for a time period greater than or equal to a first time threshold, the control circuit <NUM> is switched into the third state <NUM>. In other words, the riding lawn mower <NUM> switches from walking forward to walking backward if the user presses the at least one paddle shifter for a time period greater than or equal to a first time threshold. In some cases, even if the user presses the at least one paddle shifter for a time period greater than or equal to the first time threshold, i.e., the user issues a reverse command by the operating member <NUM>, but the riding lawn mower <NUM> is walking too fast for the reverse command to safely take action, then the reverse command is refused, and the display interface <NUM> prompts up with a warning that the riding lawn mower <NUM> is not allowed to reverse. Thus, in one embodiment, when the control circuit <NUM> is in the first state <NUM> and the at least one paddle shifter remains pressed for a time period greater than or equal to a first time threshold, the control circuit <NUM> determines if a rotational speed of the motor is less than or equal to a first velocity threshold, and if the rotational speed of the motor is less than or equal to the first velocity threshold, the control circuit <NUM> is switched into the third state <NUM>.

During the process of switching from the first state <NUM> to the third state <NUM>, or in other words, from walking forward to walking backward, the riding lawn mower <NUM> first decelerates in the forward direction until the walking speed is <NUM>, and then accelerates in the backward direction; that is, the control circuit <NUM> first decelerates the rotational speed of the walking motor <NUM> until the rotational speed of the walking motor <NUM> is <NUM>, and then rotate the walking motor <NUM> reversely. In the third state <NUM>, the user also operates the pedal assembly <NUM> and the steering wheel assembly <NUM> to control the walking speed and the walking direction of the riding lawn mower <NUM> when walking reversely. It should be noted that, a maximum rotational speed of the motor when the control circuit <NUM> is in the third state <NUM> is less than a maximum rotational speed of the motor when the control circuit <NUM> is in the first state <NUM>. In addition, a maximum turning angle of the riding lawn mower when the control circuit <NUM> is in the third state <NUM> is less than a maximum turning angle of the motor when the control circuit <NUM> is in the first state <NUM>. As a result, the riding lawn mower <NUM> is not allowed to walk fast or tum sharply when walking reversely, thereby improving the safety of the riding lawn mower <NUM>.

When the control circuit <NUM> is in the third state <NUM> and the at least one paddle shifter <NUM> is released, the control circuit <NUM> is switched into the first state <NUM>. In other words, the riding lawn mower <NUM> switches from walking backward to walking forward if the user releases the at least one paddle shifter <NUM>. That is, the user needs to keep pressing the at least one paddle shifter <NUM> when the riding lawn mower <NUM> walks backward. During the process of switching from the third state <NUM> to the first state <NUM>, or in other words, from walking backward to walking forward, the riding lawn mower <NUM> first decelerates in the backward direction until the walking speed is <NUM>, and then accelerates in the forward direction; that is, the control circuit <NUM> first decelerates the rotational speed of the walking motor <NUM> until the rotational speed of the walking motor <NUM> is <NUM>, and then rotate the walking motor <NUM> forwardly.

In one embodiment, the riding lawn mower <NUM> provides the user with different driving modes. In one embodiment, the user may select the driving mode through the mode button. Different driving modes are configured with different responsiveness, thus giving the user a bunch of driving experiences to select from. In one embodiment, the riding lawn mower <NUM> has a standard mode, a control mode, and a sports mode. The acceleration of the control circuit <NUM> switching from the first state <NUM> to the third state <NUM> varies across the plurality of driving modes. The sport mode is configured with the fastest acceleration among the three driving modes, and as a consequence, the sport mode switches the fastest from walking forward to walking backward or from walking backward to walking forward. The standard mode is configured with a slower acceleration than that of the sport mode, and as a consequence, the standard mode switches slower from walking forward to walking backward or from walking backward to walking forward. The control mode is configured with a slowest acceleration among the three driving modes, and as a consequence, the control mode switches the slowest from walking forward to walking backward or from walking backward to walking forward.

In the related art, gardening tools, such as riding lawn mowers on the market are prone to fogging on the display screen due to the influence of high temperature and high humidity. As a result, the user cannot observe the data or figures displayed on the display screen clearly, making the user experience bad.

Referring to <FIG>, the display interface <NUM> includes a casing <NUM>, a screen layer <NUM> accommodated in the casing <NUM>, and a printed circuit board <NUM>. The screen layer <NUM> may be an LCD screen or an LED screen, which is not limited herein. As detailed optical construction of the screen itself is not a contribution of this disclosure, the screen layer <NUM> is simplified for the purpose of description. In one embodiment, the screen layer <NUM> includes a middle layer <NUM> and a back layer <NUM>. The middle layer <NUM> forms a light channel that guides and converts backlight. The middle layer <NUM> may include an LED strip, a polarizer layer, a liquid crystal layer, a color filter layer, and a light guide plate, which are not shown in the drawings. The back layer <NUM> may be a reflector sheet that reflects backlight. The backlight arrangement may be either edge LED or direct LED, which is not limited herein. The casing <NUM> includes a cover layer <NUM>, which is a transparent protection cover, to protect and display the screen layer <NUM>. The cover layer <NUM>, the middle layer <NUM>, the back layer <NUM>, and the printed circuit board <NUM> are stacked and mounted to the casing <NUM>, i.e., the middle layer <NUM> disposed under the cover layer <NUM>, the back layer <NUM> disposed under the middle layer <NUM>, and the printed circuit board <NUM> disposed under the back layer <NUM>.

In one embodiment, the casing <NUM> of the display interface <NUM> includes a frame for the cover layer <NUM> and a plurality of preserved openings for the buttons of the control panel <NUM>; in other embodiments, the casing <NUM> does not include openings for buttons or switches. In this embodiment, the frame is integrally formed with the casing <NUM>; in other embodiments, the frame may be a separate part embedded into the casing <NUM>. In one embodiment, the back layer <NUM> has a rib portion <NUM> projecting toward the printed circuit board <NUM>. The rib portion <NUM> lifts the back layer <NUM> up above the printed circuit board <NUM>; and the back layer <NUM> presses the middle layer <NUM> against the casing <NUM>. In one embodiment, the printed circuit board <NUM> is mounted to the casing <NUM> through at least one fastener, such as, screw. In one embodiment, the printed circuit board <NUM> is integrated with switches for the buttons of the control panel <NUM>, so that the printed circuit board <NUM> not only transmits graphic signals for the display interface <NUM>, but also transmits switch signals for the buttons of the control panel <NUM>.

In one embodiment, the cover layer <NUM> is also mounted to the casing <NUM>. The cover layer <NUM> may be made of tempered glass or transparent polycarbonate (PC) materials, while the casing <NUM> is made of other materials. Both sides of the cover layer <NUM> are applied with at least one coating, such as, for example, Nano coating. The Nano coating can make the cover layer <NUM> water repellent and dust resistant as well, so that when the riding lawn mower <NUM> is working, the water and dust in the air does not pollute the display interface <NUM> easily, allowing the user to observe the display interface <NUM> clearly throughout the mowing process. In some embodiments, multiple layers of coatings are applied to the cover layer <NUM> to ensure the effectiveness and durability of coating. Further, in some embodiments, at least one protection film is applied to the cover layer <NUM> to avoid scratches or damages to the coating and/or the cover layer <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the cover layer <NUM> includes a projecting portion <NUM> extending from its side surfaces. The casing <NUM> includes a mating portion <NUM> for mating with the projecting portion <NUM> of the cover layer <NUM>. In one embodiment, the mating portion <NUM> includes two edges, respectively an upper edge 2002A and a lower edge 2002B. The upper edge 2002A and the lower edge 2002B form a groove <NUM> in between. The projecting portion <NUM> of the cover layer <NUM> mates with the groove <NUM> of the casing <NUM> so as to mount the cover layer <NUM> to the casing <NUM>. In one embodiment, when the cover layer <NUM> is embedded into the casing <NUM>, they are capsulated together. In another embodiment, the casing <NUM> and the cover layer <NUM> is one piece, that is, the casing <NUM> and the cover layer <NUM> are integrated together, in one embodiment, the casing <NUM> is made of tempered glass or transparent polycarbonate (PC) materials. Referring to <FIG>, the casing <NUM> can be assembled to a gardening tool or power tool through fasteners, such as screws.

In one embodiment, adhesives, especially flexible adhesives, such as silicone, are applied between the screen layer <NUM> and the casing <NUM>. The flexible adhesives are able to accommodate differences in the thermal expansion coefficients of the adherends and therefore less prone to damages and aging issues. In one construction, flexible adhesives are applied to fill the space between the rib portion <NUM> and an inner wall of the casing <NUM> to form a seal to seal a chamber between the casing <NUM> and the screen layer <NUM>. The chamber at least includes the space between the cover layer <NUM> and the screen layer <NUM>. In some other constructions, the rib portion <NUM> may be arranged on other positions of the screen layer <NUM>, for example such as, on the side surface of the screen layer <NUM>. It should be understood that, depending on the specific construction of the display interface <NUM>, for example, the casing <NUM>, the cover layer <NUM>, the screen layer <NUM> and so on, the specific position that the flexible adhesives are applied to may be slightly different, which is not limited herein.

In one embodiment, double seals are created to safely seal the space between the cover layer <NUM> and the screen layer <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, flexible adhesives are applied to fill the space between the lower surface of the lower edge 2002B and the upper surface of the middle layer <NUM>, thereby forming a first seal <NUM>. Further, flexible adhesives are applied to fill the space between the rib portion <NUM> of the back layer <NUM> and an inner wall of the casing <NUM>, thereby forming a second seal <NUM>. Depending on the specific construction of the display interface <NUM>, for example, the casing <NUM>, the cover layer <NUM>, the middle layer <NUM>, the back layer <NUM> and so on, the specific positions that the first seal <NUM> and the second seal <NUM> are applied to may be slightly different, which is not limited herein. Sealed by the first seal <NUM>, a first chamber <NUM> is formed between the cover layer <NUM> and the screen layer <NUM>, specifically, between the cover layer <NUM> and the middle layer <NUM>. Sealed by the first seal <NUM> and the second seal <NUM>, a second chamber <NUM> is formed between the inner wall of the casing <NUM> and side surface of the screen layer <NUM>, specifically, between the inner wall of the casing <NUM> and the side surfaces of the middle layer <NUM> and the back layer <NUM>. The first chamber <NUM> and the second chamber <NUM> abut.

To ensure the hardness of the cover layer <NUM>, in one construction, the thickness of the cover layer <NUM> is greater than or equal to <NUM> and less than or equal to <NUM>. Or, the thickness of the cover layer <NUM> is greater than or equal to <NUM> and less than or equal to <NUM>. In one embodiment, the thickness of the cover layer <NUM> is <NUM>. As the cover layer <NUM> in this disclosure is made relatively thick, the cover layer <NUM> is less prone to deformation, bending or dent. As a result, the distance D7 between the cover layer <NUM> and the screen layer <NUM>, specifically, the distance D7 between the cover layer <NUM> and the middle layer <NUM>, i.e., the height of the first chamber <NUM>, can be made relatively small. In one embodiment, the distance D7 between the cover layer <NUM> and the screen layer 1830may be greater than or equal to <NUM> and less than or equal to <NUM>. Or, the distance D7 between the cover layer <NUM> and the screen layer 1830may be greater than or equal to <NUM> and less than or equal to <NUM>. In one embodiment, the distance D7 between the cover layer <NUM> and the screen layer <NUM> is <NUM>.

A small distance between the cover layer <NUM> and the screen layer <NUM> means that the height of the first chamber <NUM> is small, therefore the volume of the air sealed by the first seal <NUM> in the first chamber <NUM> is small. The small volume of air sealed between the cover layer <NUM> and the screen layer <NUM> contains little moisture, thereby less prone to liquidation, which alleviates the problem of fogging of the display interface <NUM>. Over time, though, the anti-fogging effect depends largely on the durability of the seals, i.e., the first seal <NUM> and the second seal <NUM>. If the seals become aging and cracked, moisture from the environment can enter the first chamber <NUM>, causing fogs on the display interface <NUM>. On one hand, the first seal <NUM> and the second seal <NUM> provide double protection. If the second seal breaks and the first seal still functions, the first seal can still seal the first chamber; if the first seal breaks and the second seal still functions, the second seal can still seal the space of the first chamber plus the second chamber. On the other hand, the first chamber <NUM> and the second chamber <NUM> play a role in force balancing.

When the environment temperature changes, the air sealed in the first chamber <NUM> expands if the environment temperature is high and contracts if the environment temperature is low, causing pushing force (when expending) and pulling force (when contracting) to the first seal <NUM>, which is damaging for the reliability and durability of the first seal <NUM> over time. However, as height of the first chamber <NUM> is small, the volume of the air sealed by the first seal <NUM> in the first chamber <NUM> is small, therefore the force applied to the first seal <NUM> generated from thermal expansion and contraction of the air in the first chamber <NUM> is limited. Further, there is also some air sealed in the second chamber <NUM>, between the inner wall of the casing <NUM> and side surface of the screen layer <NUM>, sealed by the first seal <NUM> and the second seal <NUM>. When the environment temperature changes, the air sealed in the second chamber <NUM> also expands if the environment temperature is high and contracts if the environment temperature is low. In other words, the air sealed in the second chamber <NUM> expands and contracts substantially synchronously with the air sealed in the first chamber <NUM>. As the first chamber <NUM> and the second chamber <NUM> abut and share the first seal <NUM> as a common boundary, the force applied to the first seal <NUM> generated from thermal expansion and contraction of the air in the second chamber <NUM> at least partially offsets the force applied to the first seal <NUM> generated from thermal expansion and contraction of the air in the first chamber <NUM>, thereby the first seal <NUM> suffers from less pushing force and pulling force during temperature change, making the first seal <NUM> more durable. The structure described above is simple, compact, and highly reliable, forming an independent display assembly, which is convenient for assembly, maintenance, and replacement. It is understood that, the structure is not limited to display screens on riding lawn mowers, the structure is also applicable to display screens on other power tools for anti-fogging purposes.

In one embodiment, the display interface <NUM> may not include a screen layer <NUM>. That is, the display interface <NUM> does not have an LED screen or an LCD screen. Instead, as shown in <FIG>, the display interface <NUM> includes a casing <NUM> and a printed circuit board <NUM> accommodated in the casing <NUM>. The casing <NUM> may be made of tempered glass or polycarbonate (PC) materials, and the thickness of the casing <NUM> is greater than <NUM> and less than or equal to <NUM>. The printed circuit board has a plurality of light-emitting elements <NUM>, such as LED lamp beads. The display interface <NUM> further includes a light-guiding layer <NUM> engraved with light-guiding channels. The light-guiding layer <NUM> may be a separate part or formed integrally with the casing <NUM> as one piece. A sticker (not shown) may be adhered to the casing <NUM> or the light-guiding layer <NUM> to further improve the display effect. To prevent fogging, flexible adhesives are applied between the printed circuit board <NUM> and the casing <NUM> to seal a chamber at least including a space between the printed circuit board <NUM> and the casing <NUM>. The independently sealed display interface <NUM> can then be assembled to a variety of gardening tools or power tools.

In one embodiment, the steering wheel assembly <NUM> includes a rotary shaft <NUM> that is configured to form a synchronous rotation with the steering wheel <NUM>. The mounting assembly rotatably connects the steering wheel <NUM> and the connecting rod <NUM>; in one embodiment, the mounting assembly rotatably supports the rotary shaft <NUM>. Referring to <FIG>, the mounting assembly further includes a mounting box <NUM>, which is fixedly connected to the connecting rod <NUM> and rotatably supports the rotary shaft <NUM>. The mounting box <NUM> may be formed in two halves and the two halves enclose the first end <NUM> of the connecting rod <NUM>. The rotary shaft <NUM> is fixedly coupled to the steering wheel <NUM>. When the user turns the steering wheel <NUM>, the rotary shaft <NUM> rotates synchronously with the steering wheel <NUM>. In one embodiment, the steering wheel <NUM> and the rotary shaft <NUM> both rotate about the first axis <NUM>. In one construction, the steering wheel <NUM> has a base plate <NUM> and a fixing plate <NUM>, wherein the fixing plate <NUM> is fixed to the base plate <NUM> through a plurality of fasteners. The rotary shaft <NUM> is engaged with at least one of the fixing plate <NUM> and the base plate <NUM>, for example, through a flat fit. As shown in <FIG>, the base plate <NUM> has a double D hole, the fixing plate <NUM> also has a double D hole, the rotary shaft <NUM> has a double D portion which fits in the double D hole of the fixing plate <NUM> and the base plate <NUM>. In one embodiment, the rotary shaft <NUM> is welded to the fixing plate <NUM>, thereby forming synchronous rotation with the fixing plate <NUM>. This structure ensures the stable connection between the rotary shaft <NUM> and the steering wheel <NUM>.

In one construction, the mounting assembly further includes a supporting member <NUM> and at least one bearing. The supporting member <NUM> is accommodated inside the mounting box <NUM>; in one embodiment, the supporting member <NUM> is also fixed to the first end <NUM> of the connecting rod <NUM>, for example, through fastening devices. The supporting member <NUM> is formed with a channel for the rotary shaft <NUM> at least one bearing pedestal for the at least one bearing. The at least one bearing is mounted to the supporting member <NUM>, and the rotary shaft <NUM> is rotatably supported by the at least one bearing. In one embodiment, there are two bearings supporting an upper portion of the rotary shaft <NUM> and a lower portion of the rotary shaft <NUM>, respectively. The specific structure of the supporting member <NUM> is not limited herein, as long as it supports the rotary shaft <NUM> and enables the rotary shaft <NUM> to rotate. In fact, the supporting member <NUM> is not necessary if the mounting box <NUM> is formed with corresponding structures to rotatably support the rotary shaft <NUM>.

In another embodiment, the steering wheel assembly <NUM> includes an adjustment device operable to adjust the height of the steering wheel <NUM>. The adjustment device enables at least one of the supporting member <NUM> and the mounting box <NUM> to move in the up and down direction with respect to the connecting rod <NUM>, while the position of the adjustment device is fixed with respect to the connecting rod <NUM>. In one embodiment, the supporting member <NUM> is formed in the shape of a cylinder, and the adjustment device is enabled to fix to different positions of the cylinder. When the adjustment device is fixed to a lower position of the cylinder, the height of the steering wheel <NUM> is relatively high; when the adjustment device is fixed to a higher position of the cylinder, the height of the steering wheel <NUM> is relatively low.

In one embodiment, the rotary shaft <NUM> has a through hole, which allows a cable, or wire, to pass through the through hole. One end of the cable is connected to a first circuit board <NUM>, and the other end of the cable is connected to a second circuit board. In one embodiment, the second circuit board is the printed circuit board <NUM> of the display interface <NUM>. In one embodiment, referring to <FIG>, the wire <NUM> of the switch <NUM> coupled with the operating member <NUM> is connected to the printed circuit board <NUM> to reduce the number of wires. In one embodiment, the wire <NUM> of the switch <NUM> coupled to the left paddle shifter <NUM> is connected to the printed circuit board <NUM>, and the wire <NUM> of the switch <NUM> coupled to the right paddle shifter 139R is connected to the printed circuit board <NUM>. Thus, the printed circuit board <NUM> is the carrier for the switch signals of the operating member <NUM>, the graphic signals of the display interface <NUM>, and the switch signals of the buttons of the control panel <NUM>. Therefore, only one cable, cable, connected with the printed circuit board <NUM>, is configured to pass through the making the wiring simple and clean. As the cable is inside the through hole of the rotary shaft <NUM>, the cable will not wear out easily, prolonging the service life of the steering wheel assembly <NUM>.

In one embodiment, the rotary shaft <NUM> is coupled with a magnetic element, and the first circuit board <NUM> has a position sensor that detects the angular position of the magnetic element. In one construction, the magnetic element is hanging to a lower end of the rotary shaft <NUM> and rotates synchronously with the rotary shaft <NUM>, and the first circuit board <NUM> is located under the magnetic element, with the position sensor directly facing the magnetic element. Other constructions are also acceptable as long as the position sensor detects the angular position of the steering wheel <NUM> and the first circuit board <NUM> receives the position signals detected by the position sensor. As the cable connects the first circuit board <NUM> and the second circuit board, the first circuit board <NUM> is not only the carrier for the angular position signals of the steering wheel <NUM>, but also the carrier for the switch signals of the operating member <NUM>, the graphic signals of the display interface <NUM>, and the switch signals of the buttons of the control panel <NUM>. Further, another cable is connected to the first circuit board <NUM> and passes through the connecting rod <NUM>, so that other components of the riding lawn mower <NUM>, such as the walking assembly <NUM>, the lighting assembly <NUM> and the cutting assembly <NUM> can exchange information with the steering wheel assembly <NUM>, the control panel <NUM> and the display interface <NUM>.

In one embodiment, the fixing plate <NUM> includes a stopper projection <NUM> to limit an angle of rotation of the steering wheel <NUM>. The stopper projection <NUM> may be formed in the shape of a hook protruding from the surface of the fixing plate <NUM>. The mounting box <NUM> or the supporting member <NUM> also includes a matching projection <NUM> protruding out from the mounting box <NUM> to limit the position of the stopper projection <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the supporting member <NUM> is installed to the mounting box <NUM> through at least one fastener, such as, for example, two bolts, and the two bolts are fastened to one side of the channel for the rotary shaft <NUM>. When the supporting member <NUM> is assembled to the mounting box <NUM>, the heads of the two bolts protrude out from the mounting box <NUM>, wherein the head of the bolt is an example of the matching projection <NUM>, and there are two matching projections <NUM>. In the direction of the first axis <NUM>, the distance between the mounting box <NUM> and the fixing plate <NUM> is less than the sum of the dimension of the stopper projection <NUM> protruding out from the fixing plate <NUM> and the dimension of the matching projection <NUM> protruding out from the mounting box <NUM>, i.e., the height of the heads of the two bolts. Further, the distance from the stopper projection <NUM> to the first axis <NUM> and the distance from the matching projection <NUM> to the first axis <NUM> are about the same.

Referring to <FIG>, in one embodiment, when the user turns the steering wheel <NUM> in a clockwise direction, the fixing plate <NUM> rotates until the stopper projection <NUM> reaches one of the two matching projections <NUM>. When the user turns the steering wheel <NUM> in a counterclockwise direction, the fixing plate <NUM> rotates until the stopper projection <NUM> reaches the other one of the two matching projections <NUM>. In one embodiment, referring to <FIG>, the at least one fastener is one bolt, so there is only one matching projection <NUM>. The fixing plate <NUM> can rotate until the stopper projection <NUM> reaches the matching projection <NUM>, no matter the fixing plate <NUM> rotates in the clockwise direction or the counterclockwise direction. In this embodiment, the at least one fastener realizes both functions of mounting the supporting member <NUM> to the mounting box <NUM> and limiting the position of the stopper projection <NUM>, so as to limit the angle of rotation of the steering wheel <NUM>. Further, the at least one fastener is firm, durable, low cost, and replaceable easily. In other embodiments, however, the matching projection <NUM> is not a fastener; in fact, the matching projection <NUM> may be any protruding structure that is configured to limit the rotational position of the stopper projection <NUM>.

Because of the stopper projection <NUM> and the matching projection <NUM>, the steering wheel <NUM> has a first limit position <NUM> when rotating clockwise about the first axis, as shown in <FIG> and a second limit position <NUM> when rotating counterclockwise about the first axis, as shown in <FIG>. In one embodiment, the angle that the steering wheel <NUM> rotates from the first limit position <NUM> to the second limit position <NUM> is less than or equal to <NUM> degrees. In one embodiment, the angle that the steering wheel <NUM> rotates from the first limit position <NUM> to the second limit position <NUM> is less than or equal to <NUM> degrees. In one embodiment, the angle that the steering wheel <NUM> rotates from the first limit position <NUM> to the second limit position <NUM> is less than or equal to <NUM> degrees. In one embodiment, the angle that the steering wheel <NUM> rotates from the first limit position <NUM> to the second limit position <NUM> is <NUM> degrees. As the steering wheel <NUM> is configured to rotate clockwise and counterclockwise for the same degrees, the angle that the steering wheel <NUM> rotates from the first limit position <NUM> to the second limit position <NUM> can split equally. In other words, the steering wheel <NUM> further has an initial position <NUM>, in which the steering wheel <NUM> is symmetrical about the second axis <NUM>. In one embodiment, the angle αl that the steering wheel <NUM> rotates from the initial position <NUM> to the first limit position <NUM> is less than or equal to <NUM> degrees, and the angle α2 that the steering wheel <NUM> rotates from the initial position <NUM> to the second limit position <NUM> is less than or equal to <NUM> degrees. In one embodiment, the angle αl that the steering wheel <NUM> rotates from the initial position <NUM> to the first limit position <NUM> is less than or equal to <NUM> degrees, and the angle α2 that the steering wheel <NUM> rotates from the initial position <NUM> to the second limit position <NUM> is less than or equal to <NUM> degrees. In one embodiment, the angle α1 that the steering wheel <NUM> rotates from the initial position <NUM> to the first limit position <NUM> is less than or equal to <NUM> degrees, and the angle α2 that the steering wheel <NUM> rotates from the initial position <NUM> to the second limit position <NUM> is less than or equal to <NUM> degrees. In one embodiment, the angle αl that the steering wheel <NUM> rotates from the initial position <NUM> to the first limit position <NUM> is <NUM> degrees, and the angle α2 that the steering wheel <NUM> rotates from the initial position <NUM> to the second limit position <NUM> is <NUM> degrees.

In one embodiment, the steering wheel assembly <NUM> further includes a damper <NUM>, and the rotary shaft <NUM> and the damper <NUM> transmit force through a belt drive. In one embodiment, the damper <NUM> is a rotary damper, or called disk damper. As shown in <FIG>, the rotary shaft <NUM> is coupled with a gearwheel <NUM>. In one construction, the gearwheel <NUM> has a double D hole, which fits in a double D portion of the rotary shaft <NUM>. The damper <NUM> is also coupled with a gear <NUM>. In one construction, the damper <NUM> has a shaft <NUM>, and the gear <NUM> is fixed to the shaft <NUM> of the damper <NUM>. The gearwheel <NUM> and the gear <NUM> are both engaged with a belt <NUM>. The belt <NUM> transmits force from the gearwheel <NUM> to the gear <NUM> and from the gear <NUM> to the gearwheel <NUM>. When the user turns the steering wheel <NUM>, the rotary shaft <NUM> rotates, causing the gearwheel <NUM> to rotate. When the gearwheel <NUM> rotates, the belt rotates and passes the rotary force to the gear <NUM> and the shaft. When the shaft rotates, the viscosity of the sealed oil in the damper's body will create resistance to the movement of the shaft <NUM>. This resistance (or called viscous friction) will slow down the movement speed of the steering wheel <NUM>. When the damper <NUM> moves, its torque is generally influenced by the viscosity of the sealed oil. When the user releases the steering wheel <NUM>, the resistance created by the viscosity of the sealed oil drives the shaft to rotate to its initial position and therefore the steering wheel <NUM> to its initial position <NUM>. In one embodiment, to ensure effective force transmission between the rotary shaft <NUM> and the shaft <NUM> of the damper <NUM>, the belt <NUM> is further provided with a tension device <NUM>. In one embodiment, at least part of the damper <NUM> and the belt drive is accommodated inside the supporting member <NUM>, which provides better fixation and protection. It is noted that, the specific structure of the damper <NUM> is not limited herein; and in some embodiments, the damper <NUM> can be replaced by a motor to provide damping effect. Further, if a motor is used to provide damping effect, the angular position of the steering wheel <NUM> can be calculated from the rotational position of the motor and the transmission ratio of the belt drive, thereby eliminating the need for extra sensors for detecting the angular position of the steering wheel <NUM>.

Claim 1:
A riding lawn mower (<NUM>), comprising:
a seat (<NUM>) for a user to sit thereon;
a chassis (<NUM>) configured to support the seat;
a cutting assembly (<NUM>) mounted to the chassis (<NUM>), the cutting assembly (<NUM>) comprising a cutting member (<NUM>) for cutting grass;
a walking assembly (<NUM>) configured to drive the riding lawn mower (<NUM>) to walk on a plane;
an electric motor (<NUM>) for driving the walking assembly (<NUM>); a start button (<NUM>); and
a steering wheel assembly (<NUM>), comprising a steering wheel (<NUM>) operable by the user and a connecting rod (<NUM>) configured to connect the steering wheel (<NUM>) and the chassis (<NUM>);
wherein the steering wheel assembly (<NUM>) further comprises:
a mounting assembly, connecting the steering wheel (<NUM>) and the connecting rod (<NUM>);
a control circuit having a first state that permits the motor (<NUM>) to start and a second state that prevents the motor (<NUM>) from starting;
the riding lawn mower (<NUM>) being characterized in that it further comprisies:
an operating member (<NUM>) operable to switch the control circuit into the first state;
wherein the operating member (<NUM>) is mounted to the steering wheel (<NUM>) or the mounting assembly,
wherein the operating member (<NUM>) is coupled to a switch (<NUM>), and the operating member (<NUM>) is operable to actuate the switch (<NUM>),and
wherein, when the start button (<NUM>) is pressed and the switch (<NUM>) is actuated by the operating member (<NUM>), the control circuit is switched into the first state.