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How can we tell the evolution of leaf blowing machines from the patent application in 1968?
A leaf blower, often called a blower, is a device that pushes air out of a nozzle to move debris. Common uses include cleaning up leaves and lawn mowing residue. Leaf blowers are mainly driven by electric or gasoline engines. Traditionally gasoline engines are two-stroke, but recently four-stroke engines have also been introduced to the market to combat air pollution issues. As technology has evolved, the design and use of leaf blowers has undergone significant evolution, all dating back to a 1968 patent application.
The origin and early development of leaf blowing machines
The earliest form of leaf blowing machine appeared in 1947, originating from the backpack spray device originally designed by the Japanese company Kyoritsu Noki. The company introduced a design combining a backpack sprayer and a leaf blower in 1955, and in 1968, Kyoritsu began applying for a patent with the intention of launching a more efficient backpack sprayer.
"In 1977, Kyoritsu obtained a patent and gradually transformed into Kioritz Corporation of America, and the invention of what is considered the first leaf blower revolved around this patent."
As time went on, leaf blowers began to experience explosive growth in sales in the 1970s. It is estimated that by 1989, sales of leaf blowers in the United States had exceeded 1 million units. As environmental policies changed, many manufacturers began to adjust engine designs to comply with California's noise and air pollution emission standards.
Technological innovation and environmental protection challenges
In 1995, California introduced stricter environmental regulations that required manufacturers to improve existing engine designs to reduce noise and emissions. But as regulations tightened further in 1999, manufacturers were forced to redesign 2-stroke engines that were quieter and more compliant.
"Battery-powered cordless leaf blower designs further developed in the mid-2000s and gradually replaced traditional corded or gasoline-powered products."
With the evolution of technology, almost all current wireless leaf blowers use lithium batteries, which have favorable battery life and zero emission characteristics. Concerns about environmental impact can be alleviated, and the noise generated during operation is reduced to 70% compared to the previous generation product, which makes the application of leaf blowing machines towards more possibilities.
Social response and market changes
Although leaf blower technology continues to advance, its impact on the environment and public health has triggered widespread controversy. Many studies have pointed out that gas-powered leaf blowers release harmful substances and affect human health due to noise. In fact, many communities have imposed bans or restrictions on the use of leaf blowers. Since two cities in California banned leaf blowers in 1975, as many as 200 areas across the United States have restricted their use.
"California's air pollution control regulations passed in 2021 will be implemented in 2024 to further regulate the use of small off-highway engines."
In addition, in addition to supporting a diverse biological environment, the retention of leaves can also improve soil quality to some extent, which is increasingly valued in urban planning. With the increasing understanding of the impact on the ecological environment, how to find a suitable balance point while supporting innovation and development in this field will become the focus of future discussions.
Summary
Starting from the patent application in 1968, the development of leaf blowers has not only witnessed the evolution of technology, but also demonstrated the gradual awakening of environmental awareness and social response. How will future leaf blowers find the best balance between technology and ecology?
