Snow Blower Innovations, Inc.

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Snow Blower Innovations, Inc.

• Snow Blower
• Declogging System

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Current Issues

• Snow Blowers clog with snow easily
• Heavy/Wet Snow
• Sticks in the chute
• Jams impeller movement
• Leads to hazardous situations

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Two-Stage Snow Blower Construction
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Options for Clearing Snow

• Few options available to clear clogs
• A hassle to manually clear
• Lubricants (Silicone) prevent, but wear off

Shovel Handle
Broom Handle
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Hazards Presented

• Clearing By Pole/Broom/Stick
• Impeller damaged
• Clearing tool shot back towards user
• Clearing By Hand
• Spinning Impeller Amputation/Laceration
• Torque buildup from engine stall
• 3500 hand injuries per year

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Solution vs. Alternates

• A small device at the bottom of the chute
• Rotates blades to scrape snow from walls
• Powered by a low-speed, high-torque motor
• Low speed makes it safer
• Alternatives
• Heating Chute (electric vs. mechanical)

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Prototype Design
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Prototype Design (cont.)
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Design Animation
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Manufacturing

• High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Plastic
• Easy to work with
• Low Friction Surface
• 25 Grade, ¼ inch bearings
• Generic Worm-Gear Automotive Seat Motor
• 1/8 inch belt drive

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Cost to Manufacture
From McMaster-Carr
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Target Audience

• Major Corporations
• Snow Blower Manufacturers
• Needs to be built into the design
• Chute design too varied for generic product

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Further Work

• Mounted Prototype with motor
• Effectiveness of clearing wet snow
• Maximum torque possible without the system
  stopping movement
• Mounted Prototype with Snow Blower
• Simplified design components

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Any Questions?