Richard A Thorud

Title: Innovator Richard A. Thorud: Pioneering Lawn Care Innovations in Bloomington, MN

Introduction

Richard A. Thorud stands out as a prominent inventor in the lawn care equipment industry, holding an impressive 17 patents. Based in Bloomington, Minnesota, Richard has dedicated his talents to advancing outdoor power equipment. His innovative designs focus on enhancing user experience and improving efficiency in lawn maintenance.

Latest Patents

Two of Richard's latest patents exemplify his commitment to innovation. The first is a **Ground Speed Control System** designed for outdoor power equipment, including lawn mowers. This invention allows users to manually adjust the ground speed of the mower using a handle grip that slides relative to the handle. As the grip moves down, ground speed increases, while moving it up decreases the speed. This design not only empowers the operator with better control but also incorporates a grab member that provides additional leverage.

The second notable patent is the **Mulching Blade for Lawn Mower**, which enhances the mulching effectiveness of rotary lawn mowers. This cutting blade features a centrally located and generally rectangular design, with a concavely curved upper surface along its entire length. Its unique design includes radially outermost end portions that twist in reverse to create downward-slanting leading edges. This innovation aims to improve both the efficiency and quality of lawn mulching.

Career Highlights

Richard A. Thorud's career has been marked by his significant contributions to The Toro Company, a leader in outdoor power equipment. His innovative spirit and engineering skills have helped propel the company forward, aligning with their mission to provide high-quality lawn care solutions.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Richard has collaborated with skilled individuals such as Donald M. White, III, and Henry B. Tillotson, III. These partnerships have fostered an environment of creativity and innovation, allowing for the development of groundbreaking products in the lawn care industry.

Conclusion

Richard A. Thorud’s dedication to innovation in outdoor power equipment has positioned him as a key figure in his field. His patents, particularly in ground speed control and mulching technology, reflect a strong commitment to enhancing the user experience for lawn care enthusiasts. As he continues to innovate at The Toro Company, Richard’s contributions promise to shape the future of lawn maintenance equipment for years to come.