Huibregtse Mark J

Bio: Huibregtse Mark J is an academic researcher from Kohler Company. The author has contributed to research in topics: Fuel tank & Overhead (computing). The author has an hindex of 2, co-authored 9 publications receiving 12 citations.

Brake system and lawn mower implementing the same

Abstract: A brake system and powered implement, such as a lawn mower, incorporating the same. In one aspect the invention is a system for stopping an electrically grounded rotating member of an engine powered by an ignition circuit, the system comprising: a conductive member operably coupled to the ignition circuit that renders the engine inoperative when electrically grounded, the conductive member mounted adjacent the rotating member; and the conductive member normally biased into a brake position in which the conductive member contacts the rotating member and is electrically grounded as a result of the contact with the rotating member.

Integrated engine control apparatus and method of operating same

Abstract: Engine control assemblies for use with internal combustion engines, engines having such assemblies, and methods for operating such engines and assemblies are disclosed. In one example embodiment of an engine control assembly encompassed herein, the assembly includes a lever structure configured to rotate to any of a plurality of positions ranging from a first position to a second position. The assembly also includes at least one linking structure configured to allow rotational movement of the lever structure to influence at least indirectly an engine choking operation, where the at least one linking structure including a rod (250) that includes a bend portion (256) along its length, and the lever structure includes a formation (254) with an orifice (252) through which the rod (250) extends. The rod (250) and formation (254) are configured so that at least some other rotational movement of the lever structure does not cause any corresponding movement of the choke actuation input structure.

Valve member and fuel cap

Abstract: The present application generally relates to a valve member and a fuel cap. The valve member serves to escape a stream of vapor from a fuel tank of an internal combustion engine from the fuel tank. The valve member may include a valve and a projection or spacer. The valve is configured to selectively control a flow of vapor from the fuel tank. The projection or spacer is positioned in a predetermined relationship to the valve, and the projection or spacer prevents deformation of the valve from interrupting selectively controlled vapor flow from the fuel tank.

Control devices, systems, and methods for self-propelled machinery

Abstract: Control devices and systems for self-propelled machinery and related methods are disclosed. In one aspect, a control device (10) for self-propelled machinery includes a central portion (14) disposed between a first gripping portion (12A) and a second gripping portion (12B) and at least one pressure sensitive trigger control (36) provided over either the first or the second gripping portion. The trigger control can be configured to reduce a speed of the self-propelled machinery by actuating a portion of a potentiometer for varying an electrical signal carried by the control device. In some aspects, the control device can electrically communicate with a control unit of the self-propelled machinery.

Smart ignition system

Abstract: A lawn care device may include an engine to selectively power the device, a frame supporting the engine and an operator of the device, and an ignition interface having processing circuitry configured to define a plurality of operating modes. The operating modes may include at least a starting mode in which the ignition interface is usable by the operator to start the engine, and a running mode in which the engine is running. The ignition interface may include code entry keys configured to, responsive to entry of a code via the code entry keys, enable use of the ignition interface to shift from the starting mode to the running mode without a physical starting key.

Grass mowing machine operator platform

Abstract: A grass mowing machine operator platform includes a one-piece plastic composite molded structure with a top surface and an outer wall, and a plurality of slots in the top surface and outer wall. A pair of steering levers may be pivotably mounted to steering pivot bolts in the slots in the top surface, and a brake lever pivotably mounted in a slot in the outer wall. The slots where the steering levers and brake lever are mounted have integral bearing surfaces.

Safety system for engine shutdown, and engines and equipment incorporating the same

Abstract: A safety system for engine powered machinery having a fuel cut functionality to promote more rapid shutdown of the rotating parts of the engine powered machinery. In one aspect, the system is implemented as a wiring harness disposed exclusively on the engine which simultaneously disables one or more ignition coils and prevents a fuel-air mixer from supplying a mixture of air and fuel to the engine upon activation of a safety switch. In alternate aspects, the system further comprises a stator brake which is activated by the safety switch to provide additional braking torque on the engine. These features bring the machinery to a rapid halt, further enhancing safety.