Plural Tracks With Interconnected Drive Or Support Means Patents (Class 180/192)
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Patent number: 10766568Abstract: A snowmobile has a frame, a ski connected to the frame, a seat connected to the frame for accommodating a driver of the snowmobile, a rear suspension assembly operatively connected to the frame, an endless track supported by the rear suspension assembly, a motor supported by the frame, and a continuously variable transmission (CVT) operatively connecting the motor to the endless track. The rear suspension assembly has a suspension assembly drive axle defining a drive axle rotation axis, and a drive sprocket mounted to the drive axle. The motor has a shaft rotatable about a shaft rotation axis. The drive axle rotation axis is positioned forwardly of the shaft rotation axis. The seat is positioned above the motor.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 2020Date of Patent: September 8, 2020Assignee: BOMBARDIER RECREATIONAL PRODUCTS INC.Inventors: Yvon Bedard, Jonathan Fortier
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Patent number: 9981703Abstract: A track system for use as a wheel replacement on a vehicle comprises a first drive wheel configured to be mounted to the vehicle, a first frame pivotally yet non-drivingly mounted to the first drive wheel, a second frame mounted to the first frame, at least a second drive wheel pivotally mounted to the second frame, at least an idler wheel pivotally mounted to the second frame at a second extremity, and at least an endless traction band disposed about the second drive wheel and the idler wheel. The second drive wheel is configured to drivingly engage the traction band. The first drive wheel is operatively coupled to the second drive wheel via a transmission mechanism (e.g. a loop) such that rotation of the first drive wheel causes the rotation of the second drive wheel.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2014Date of Patent: May 29, 2018Assignee: SOUCY INTERNATIONAL INC.Inventor: Vincent Morin
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Patent number: 8364356Abstract: A method of altering a drive parameter of a machine having a drive system that is configured to operate a left side of the machine independently of the right side of the machine. The method includes entering, by a user, a drive parameter alteration mode by actuating a first input, and actuating a second input to alter one or more parameters associated with a controller of the machine.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2012Date of Patent: January 29, 2013Assignee: Clark Equipment CompanyInventors: Christopher L. Young, Jason L. Magnuson, Spencer L. Mindeman
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Patent number: 8239104Abstract: A method of altering a drive parameter of a machine having a drive system that is configured to operate a left side of the machine independently of the right side of the machine. The method includes entering, by a user, a drive parameter alteration mode by actuating a first input, and actuating a second input to alter one or more parameters associated with a controller of the machine.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 2008Date of Patent: August 7, 2012Assignee: Clark Equipment CompanyInventors: Christopher Lee Young, Jason Lee Magnuson, Spencer Lee Mindeman
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Patent number: 7870914Abstract: This invention relates to a traction assembly for a vehicle which uses an endless traction band and a plurality of wheels for propulsion. More particularly, the traction assembly comprises a sprocket wheel which has a different size and number of sprocket teeth depending on whether the traction kit replaces the front wheels or the rear wheels of the vehicle. The sprocket wheel of the traction kit can also be configured such that its sprocket teeth are laterally offset. The traction kit can also comprise an anti-torque system that prevent physical contact between the traction kit and the vehicle and that can bias the position of the traction kit in order to improve the steering performance. Finally, the traction assembly can comprise a pivotable extension which lengthens the traction assembly and improves its traction capabilities.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2007Date of Patent: January 18, 2011Assignee: Soucy International Inc.Inventors: André Todd, Robert Handfield, Robert Bessette, Chad Olson
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Patent number: 7845448Abstract: A tracked vehicle, especially a snow scooter, that has two laterally spaced-apart front drive-track assemblies (10), each of which is turnable around a substantially vertical axis and which are coupled for common turning. Each drive-track assembly is carried by a vehicle chassis (11) via a vertically movable link device, which in respect of vertical turning rests against the chassis via a spring-damper assembly (7), and the drive-track assemblies are mechanically coupled by a parallel steering mechanism (23-26), which is maneuverable by a driver of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2006Date of Patent: December 7, 2010Inventor: Ake Olsson
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Patent number: 7753155Abstract: A snowmobile having a multiple endless track propulsion system. The multiple track propulsion system includes a rear endless track operably supported to engage a ground surface, and a pair of steerable front endless tracks positioned forward of the rear endless track. The front endless tracks are oriented in a spaced-apart, parallel relationship to one another, and operable to engage the ground surface. A power supply is disposed in the snowmobile body and operably configured to power the rear endless track and the pair of front endless tracks to propel the snowmobile.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2007Date of Patent: July 13, 2010Inventors: Jacob B. Snyder, Donald A. Davis
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Patent number: 7469764Abstract: A frame assembly is described including a tunnel, an engine cradle disposed forward of the tunnel and connected thereto, and a sub-frame disposed forward of the engine cradle and connected thereto. A forward support assembly extends upwardly from the subframe. An upper column extends upwardly from the engine cradle to connect with the forward support assembly. A rear brace assembly extends upwardly from the tunnel to connect with the forward support assembly and the upper column. In one embodiment, the frame assembly further includes an engine disposed in the engine cradle. An endless track is operatively connected to the engine and disposed beneath the tunnel for propulsion. A pair of skis is operatively connected to a steering device for steering. In another embodiment, the frame assembly further includes an engine disposed in the engine cradle.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 2001Date of Patent: December 30, 2008Assignee: Bombardier Recreational Products Inc.Inventors: Bruno Girouard, Berthold Fecteau, Jérôme Wubbolts, Anne-Marie Dion
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Patent number: 7404465Abstract: A cruise control system for an electric wheelchair includes: a drive unit for driving the electric wheelchair; a user control unit for transmitting user control signals; a controller selectively operable in a normal control mode for controlling the drive unit such that a speed of the electric wheelchair is adjusted in accordance with the user control signals; and a current detecting unit for detecting a load current of the electric wheelchair and outputting a corresponding current signal. The controller has parameter relation information loaded therein, and is further selectively operable in a cruise control mode for controlling the drive unit with reference to the current signal and the parameter relation information to maintain the speed of the electric wheelchair within a desired speed range.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 2006Date of Patent: July 29, 2008Assignee: Kwang Yang Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Shih-Chia Hsieh, I-Nan Lin
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Patent number: 7318494Abstract: A vehicle comprises a frame and a slide rail disposed below the frame for guiding a drive track along a road surface. An arm has a first portion pivotally coupled to the frame at a frame pivot location and a second portion pivotally coupled to the slide rail at a rail pivot location. Vertical movement of the slide rail causes a length of the arm between the frame pivot location and the rail pivot location to extend or contract. The vehicle suspension system becomes increasingly stiffer as the deflection of the slide rail increases, to contribute to a more comfortable ride and to reduce the risk of bottoming-out.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2003Date of Patent: January 15, 2008Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Kubota Takahiko, Masanori Yoshihara
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Patent number: 6926108Abstract: A rear suspension system for a snowmobile includes a plurality of adjacent closed-loop tracks disposed in a rear tunnel of the snowmobile. Each of the plurality of adjacent closed-loop tracks are rotatably driven by a drive system. One of a plurality of independent suspension assemblies is disposed in each closed-loop track and the plurality of independent suspension assemblies articulate independently of each other during travel of the rear suspension system.Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 2003Date of Patent: August 9, 2005Assignee: Great Lakes Sound & Vibration, Inc.Inventors: Stephen E. Polakowski, Steven G. Mattson
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Patent number: 6708791Abstract: A snow vehicle includes a frame having a longitudinal axis, a pair of rear suspension assemblies, a pair of front suspension assemblies, a pair of drive tracks, and a pair of ski assemblies. Each rear suspension assembly pivotally connects a drive track to a rearward portion of the frame. Each front suspension assembly pivotally connects a ski assembly to a forward portion of the frame. The rear suspension assemblies, the front suspension assemblies, the drive tracks, and the ski assemblies are symmetric about the longitudinal axis.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2003Date of Patent: March 23, 2004Inventor: James L. Alexander
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Patent number: 6095275Abstract: A conversion system for converting an all terrain vehicle (ATV) for use in snow and in other adverse condition, the system including an endless track assembly. Endless track assemblies are comprised of a drive cog mounted on the rear axle, having teeth for engaging a track, and a slide rail assembly for guiding and tensioning a composite track. The drive cog is uniquely designed to provide optimal power to gear ratios to be used with the drive gear of the ATV. The standard ATV axle may be replaced with a stronger axle. The track mount assembly is mounted by a bearing housing support constructed to fit the axle. The drive cog is constructed with bolt patterns compatible with bolt patterns on existing ATV axle mounts. A unique motion-limiting device keeps the track assemblies properly positioned when riding over uneven terrain. The track mount assemblies provide a dual track construction that replaces the ATV drive wheels and converts the ATV to a vehicle that can transverse terrains such as snow and mud.Type: GrantFiled: February 21, 1998Date of Patent: August 1, 2000Inventor: Charles T. Shaw
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Patent number: 6076621Abstract: A mobile work platform contains a base having two sections. The first section contains an energy source, a motor, a gearbox, a drive axle, and at least one drive wheel. The second section contains two steerable casters. The second section telescopes relative to the first section so that the distance between the drive axle and the controlled casters, and the length of the base, are variable. The platform also contains two ladders that are removably attached to the base and that and extend upward from the base, an upper horizontal working platform, and a control system for regulating the speed and direction of travel.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 1998Date of Patent: June 20, 2000Assignee: Spencer Research and Development, Inc.Inventor: Gerald H. Horn
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Patent number: 6070679Abstract: The present inventive device generally allows a user to easily engage and push or pull heavy and unwieldy object(s), most notably a line of nested shopping carts, effectively and without undue strain. The cart is designed specifically with universal utility in mind. The power is supplied by either an electrically driven motor or internal combustion engine. Power is transmitted to a transaxle with belts or an electric motor electronically controlled. A simple forward/reverse control via throttle handles causes cart movement and steering is achieved through dual rear castors. The front of the cart contains a receiver that allows easy attachment for a multitude of attachments for a variety of uses. A square tube fitment with a quick release device lets the cart be configured for different markets and easy field change. One such attachment is a shopping cart adapter, which attaches to the cart through the receiver connection.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 1997Date of Patent: June 6, 2000Assignee: Lindbergh Manufacturing, Inc.Inventors: David W. Berg, Joseph D. Berg, Dennis R. Johnson
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Patent number: 5963150Abstract: A golf cart or caddy and a mobile transmitting device carried by a golf player are each provided with a receiving and evaluating device equipped with a computer for a satellite-controlled positioning system. The two receiving and evaluating devices calculate the respective positions of the golf player and the golf caddy from the signals cyclically received from the satellite system. The mobile transmitting device is provided with a high-frequency manual transmitter which transmits, also cyclically, the positions of the golf player to the golf caddy. The computer of the golf caddy calculates direction and distance of the golf player and stores the data up to the time when the caddy follows the stored path upon a signal. The golf caddy stops at a predetermined distance from the golf player.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 1997Date of Patent: October 5, 1999Inventor: Gunther Bail
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Patent number: 5899284Abstract: A powered golf bag cart (10) including a frame assembly (20), a free wheel assembly (22), a drive wheel assembly (24), a power delivery assembly (26), a steering assembly (28), and a control assembly (30). For compact storage, the frame assembly (20) of the cart (10) has nestably collapsible base portion (32), central portion (34), and handle portion (36). The power delivery assembly (26) includes a drive motor (128) and a power train assembly (138) for rotatably motivating the drive wheel assembly (24). In this manner all control and motive force is applied via a single ground contacting surface in the drive wheel assembly (24).Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 1997Date of Patent: May 4, 1999Assignee: Sun Mountain Sports, Inc.Inventors: Eric W. Reimers, Franklyn R. Jones
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Patent number: 5860485Abstract: A powered grocery cart mover moves a line of grocery carts. The grocery cart mover includes a drive mechanism and a mechanism for engaging the line of grocery carts. The engaging mechanism is configured and arranged so that upon activation of the drive mechanism, the engaging mechanism lifts an end of the line of carts off the ground and moves the carts horizontally in a desired direction. The drive mechanism is pivotally connected to the cart engaging mechanism to facilitate steering of the cart engaging mechanism and the line of carts. The grocery cart mover can further include a harnessing mechanism releasably attachable to the cart engager and the line of carts for securing the line of carts relative to the cart engager.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 1997Date of Patent: January 19, 1999Assignee: Rhino Craft, Inc.Inventor: Mark A. Ebbenga
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Patent number: 5845724Abstract: A child's ride-on vehicle including a body portion configured to carry a child rider and at least three wheels mounted to the body portion and configured to allow the body portion to travel. The vehicle also includes a drive system with an electric motor and a battery, the drive system being activatable and connected to at least one of the wheels to rotate the wheel upon activation to thereby cause the vehicle to travel. A primary motor control system is operatively connected to the drive system and configured to allow the child rider to control activation of the drive system. A primary steering system is operatively connected to at least one of the wheels and configured to allow the child rider to selectively steer the vehicle by causing at least one of the wheels to turn relative to at least one other wheel.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 1996Date of Patent: December 8, 1998Assignee: Mattel, Inc.Inventor: Robert C. Barrett
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Patent number: 5810104Abstract: A device for controllably moving a vehicle that includes a drive wheel. The device includes a drive motor that provides energy for moving the drive wheel, a steering tiller conjoined to the drive wheel for changing vehicle direction and a control grip attached to the steering tiller for increasing and decreasing power to the drive motor. The present invention also includes a control grip.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 1995Date of Patent: September 22, 1998Assignee: Patient Easy Care Products, Inc.Inventor: Peter M. Campbell
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Patent number: 5794305Abstract: A vacuum cleaner having an articulation mechanism which includes hemispherically shaped rearward wheels and spaced forward wheels, and a base member which pivotably couples the front and rear wheels so that the rearward wheels may be pivoted in a plane substantially vertical to the surface to be vacuumed such that only one of the rearward wheels in disposed on the surface when the rearward axis is pivoted from a horizontal. As the vacuum is pushed forward or pulled backward, the vacuum cleaner turns toward the side in which the rearward wheel is disposed on the surface to be vacuumed.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 1996Date of Patent: August 18, 1998Inventor: Kenneth J. Weger
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Patent number: 5749424Abstract: A powered golf bag cart (10) is shown which includes a frame assembly (20), a free wheel assembly (22), a drive wheel assembly (24), a power delivery assembly (26), a steering assembly (28), and a control assembly (30). For compact storage, the frame assembly (20) of the cart (10) further includes a base portion (32), central portion (34), and handle portion (36) which collapse into one another. The power delivery assembly (26) includes a drive motor (144), located in the drive wheel assembly (24). The cart (10) is steered by the steering assembly (28) changing orientation of the drive wheel assembly (24), under control of a user operating the control assembly (30). In this manner all control and motive force is applied via a single ground contacting surface in the drive wheel assembly (24).Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 1995Date of Patent: May 12, 1998Inventor: Eric W. Reimers
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Patent number: 5735361Abstract: A personal traction transportation vehicle which includes two gear-motor-wheels which drive a connected chassis forward. The chassis is stabilized by a third trailing caster wheel. The vehicle is electrically driven by a removable battery pack. At least one and preferably two drag poles simulating ski poles are attached to the chassis through universal joints in a manner allowing the handles of the ski poles to be free to move in the plane normal to the direction of forward movement. The vehicle is steered by either twisting the poles which turn the front two wheels, or by motoring the front drive wheels independently, or by differentially pulling on the drag poles.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 1995Date of Patent: April 7, 1998Inventor: Kenneth R. Forrest
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Patent number: 5730450Abstract: A push/steering bar accessory for a camera pedestal has upper and lower elongate plates forming a straight bar. Sprockets within the bar are linked by a belt. The outer sprocket is joined to a tube for receiving the pushing/steering handle. The inner sprocket is attached to a kingpin on the pedestal. A positioning pin may be adjusted to change the angle of the bar relative to the pedestal. The pedestal accordingly may be pushed and steered from different positions on the side and behind the pedestal.Type: GrantFiled: December 26, 1995Date of Patent: March 24, 1998Assignee: Leonard Studio Equipment, Inc.Inventor: Leonard T. Chapman
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Patent number: 5580207Abstract: A device for moving beds includes a moveable frame (2); a lifting mechanism (4) which can cooperate with the underframe of a bed (49); and a steering mechanism (5).Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 1994Date of Patent: December 3, 1996Assignee: Elaut, Naamloze VennootschapInventors: Lucas Kiebooms, Joseph Froyen, Paul Plevoets
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Patent number: 5573078Abstract: A steerable, self-powered device for use in towing and guiding a plurality of shopping carts attached together in a line from one location to another is disclosed which has a pair of electrically driven wheels located in the rear thereof, and a single wheel located in the front thereof for use in steering the towing and guiding device. The towing and guiding device is small and low to the ground, and includes a retaining mechanism which may be attached to the line of shopping carts by connection to the bottom front cross-bar of the front-most shopping cart in the line of shopping carts. The towing and guiding device is powered by one or more batteries, and in the preferred embodiment includes a battery charger and a retractable cord to supply power to the battery charger.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 1995Date of Patent: November 12, 1996Inventors: Calvin R. Stringer, Calvin D. Stringer
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Patent number: 5547035Abstract: A four wheeled powered hand truck for transporting logs in confined spaces over rough and inclined terrain is shown. A hand fork assembly is pivotally mounted on the front end of the powered hand truck adapted to move from a vertical load/unload position to a reclined load carrying position. A gasoline engine, transmission, clutch, differential,safety latch and controls are shown.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 1995Date of Patent: August 20, 1996Inventor: Blane P. Berry
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Patent number: 5524720Abstract: An integrated powered walker and parallel bar that provides a stable and mobile walking frame for those who must pull on objects is adapted to move forward according to a user's needs. The user controls movement of the walker by depressing a switch; the speed at which the device moves is also user controlled.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 1994Date of Patent: June 11, 1996Inventor: John Lathrop
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Patent number: 5522471Abstract: A power operated wheeled cart for hauling bulk materials is constructed so that it can be knocked-down into a condition of partial disassembly in a manner such that a base platform can be inverted and used as a structural base for attaching crating members to form a compact modular shipping unit which utilizes a minimum of crating components.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 1994Date of Patent: June 4, 1996Inventor: Dennis J. Hilgendorf
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Patent number: 5518079Abstract: To control the speed of a lawn mower, the speed of the lawn mower is changed in a forward direction along a longitudinal plane, resulting in a tendency to turn because of different speed characteristics of the right and left wheel drives. The speed is corrected by lateral movement of a control lever to increase the speed of one wheel motor and decrease the speed of the other wheel motor. When turning, if the lawn mower is not aligned along the longitudinal axis after the turn, the deviation is indicated in the position of the control lever to the right or left. This can be corrected by momentarily applying a motor speed change to one of said right and left hydraulic motors while observing the control lever until the control lever is centered in the longitudinal plane, whereby the speed of the lawn mower will be aligned along the longitudinal plane.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 1994Date of Patent: May 21, 1996Assignee: F. D. Kees Manufacturing, Co.Inventor: Terry L. Zvolanek
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Patent number: 5375673Abstract: An accessory drive unit for attachment to the central support member of a non-motorized golf bag cart having two rear wheels, the accessory drive unit including a front wheel drive unit having a front wheel, a motor within the front wheel, control circuitry for controlling the speed and direction of rotation of the front wheel, and structure to steer the front wheel unit.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 1993Date of Patent: December 27, 1994Inventors: Amiel J. McCall, Roger M. Marino
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Patent number: 5363937Abstract: A tracked vehicle (10) propelled by a pair of direct current electric motors (35) operating through a power train to a pair of endless tracks (11). Each power train operates a track drive sprocket (14) through a state of the art torque hub. Electric energy is applied to the motors from a battery pack (13) carried by the vehicle, acting in conjunction with a power control and distribution unit which directs the electrical energy from the batteries as needed. Braking of forward motion of the vehicle is accomplished in part by regenerative use of the motors, each as a generator feeding electricity back to the battery pack and consequently braking the vehicle's motion by the resistance of rotation of the armature rotor.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 1992Date of Patent: November 15, 1994Assignee: LMC Operating Corp.Inventor: M. Elmer James
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Patent number: 5346028Abstract: The invention is a golf cart with a motor for the transport of golf equipment and one person. It is equipped with a steering mechanism which enables an individual to drive the cart while sitting on a seat, standing on a board located behind the seat, or walking behind the cart.Type: GrantFiled: January 4, 1993Date of Patent: September 13, 1994Inventor: Nicola Cassano
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Patent number: 5335740Abstract: A transmission for a wheeled appliance responsive to pushing and pulling forces applied to a handle. The transmission includes speed reduction gearing and forward and reverse clutching elements which provide high power capacity, large speed reduction, durability, quiet operation and smooth power engagement. The main power train elements all rotate on parallel axes and the forward and reverse clutching elements are essentially independent of one another and resistant to wear.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 1993Date of Patent: August 9, 1994Assignee: The Scott Fetzer CompanyInventors: Robert B. Meyer, John R. Lackner, Hans J. Matuschek
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Patent number: 5325934Abstract: A trailer driver for moving and supporting a trailer is disclosed. A frame provides a base for supporting two downwardly facing opposing arms. A fixed bearing extends upwardly from the base and supports a vertical hitch shaft that is rotatably engaged within the bearing. A trailer hitch clamp is removably fixed to the hitch shaft and is adapted for holding a trailer hitch. The hitch shaft engaging a cover and further provides a fixed steering sprocket coaxial with the hitch shaft. A drive wheel is rotatably mounted on a horizontal axle, which is positioned between the two arms of the frame, and engages a drive sprocket for rotating therewith on the axle. An electric motor is fixed to the frame and provides a driven sprocket interconnected with the drive sprocket by a first drive belt. A drive circuit drives the motor in either a forward or reverse direction.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 1993Date of Patent: July 5, 1994Inventor: Raymond L. Larson
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Patent number: 5307889Abstract: A golf cart or other personal utility vehicle includes a wheeled platform, a wheeled gooseneck frame detachably secured at the rear of the platform, and a detachable steering handle for turning a powered wheel on the gooseneck frame for steering purposes. A detachable upright post provides support for a conventional golf bag and set of clubs. A forwardly facing occupant seat is detachably mounted to the gooseneck frame, thereby placing the weight of an occupant substantially upon the rear driving and steering wheel. The golf cart provides a mechanized vehicle capable of use on all types of terrain. It can be readily disassembled for storage and transport within the trunk or cargo area of a conventional passenger automobile.Type: GrantFiled: January 4, 1993Date of Patent: May 3, 1994Inventor: William D. Bohannan
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Patent number: 5259471Abstract: A trailer dolly arranged for receiving a trailer hitch thereto to permit ease and mobility of a trailer. A support platform includes a forward wheel pivotally mounted relative to the platform, with a plurality of rear wheels, with at least one of the wheels in operative communication with a drive motor. A trailer hitch ball is mounted projecting upwardly of the support platform to receive a trailer hitch thereon. A modification of the invention includes the trailer hitch ball mounted within a cylinder, with a piston reciprocatably mounted within the cylinder mounting the ball at its upper distal end to permit lifting of a trailer as required for its mobility about a support surface.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 1992Date of Patent: November 9, 1993Inventors: Robert J. Taylor, Judy L. Taylor, Donald L. Price, Linda S. Price
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Patent number: 5246081Abstract: Method for loading and unloading semitrailers on a train of flat cars by coupling the semitrailers to power driven stanchions respectively, providing the power driven stanchions with automatic control in the form of proximity sensors for governing movement of the semitrailers in accordance with proximity of adjoining semitrailers and automatically steering the stanchions along a guide path to load and unload the train.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 1992Date of Patent: September 21, 1993Assignee: Knorr Brake Holding CorporationInventor: Thomas H. Engle
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Patent number: 5181579Abstract: A first wheel positioned on a first side of a vehicle is driven by a first reversible hydraulic motor. A second wheel positioned on a second side of the vehicle is driven by a second reversible hydraulic motor. A first valve controls the drive direction and speed of operation of the first hydraulic motor. A second valve controls the drive direction and speed of operation of the second hydraulic motor. An actuator shaft is connected with the first and second valves. Linear movement of the actuator shaft along its axis actuates both of the valves in either a forward or a reverse direction. The actuator shaft is also rotatable about its axis. Rotation of the actuator shaft about its axis actuates one of the valves in the forward direction and the other of the valves in the reverse direction.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 1991Date of Patent: January 26, 1993Assignee: TRW Inc.Inventor: Donald L. Gilliem
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Patent number: 5180023Abstract: A self propelled golf bag cart assembly (10) is provided to allow a golfer to walk during a round of golf while having the golf cart (12) and the contents carried by the cart (10). The bag cart (10) includes a plurality of cooperative subassemblies for performing specific functions. The bag cart (10) includes a frame subassembly (16), a first drive wheel subassembly (18), a second drive wheel subassembly (20), a caster subassembly (28), a handle subassembly (30), and a hand grip subassembly (32). Each of the drive wheel subassemblies (18, 20) includes a shoulder (22), a motor (26), and a wheel (24) subassembly. Power and control is provided by directly driving a motor (118) associated with each wheel (24) through an electrical subassembly (38). The electrical subassembly includes a battery (48) and a variety of controlling components situated in a manual control box (34), a main power unit (54) the hand grip (32), and an optional remote control unit (36).Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 1991Date of Patent: January 19, 1993Inventor: Eric W. Reimers
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Patent number: 5163189Abstract: A mobile, self powered and power steered gurney is provided including an elevatable and laterally tiltable support structure from which patient support structure is supported for adjusted shifting laterally of the gurney between a first position superposed over the support structure and an extended position projecting outwardly of one side margin of the support structure. The patient support structure incorporates a conveyor structure which is operative to convey a patient laterally of the support structure responsive to shifting of the patient support structure further operative to shift a patient laterally of the patient support structure relative thereto in a direction opposite to the direction in which the patient support structure is being shifted relative to the support structure and at a speed substantially equal to the speed of shifting of the patient support structure relative to the support structure.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 1991Date of Patent: November 17, 1992Inventor: William G. DeGray
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Patent number: 5139102Abstract: A self-propelled trailer maneuvering dolly for transporting a fifth wheel trailer or a travel trailer. The dolly has a frame, a front handlebar and castor for steering, a pair of rear drive wheels for driving the dolly, a pneumatic motor, and sprocket wheels and chains for transmitting power to the drive wheels. There is a pneumatically extensible and retractable vertical lift, which has a top for engaging with the coupling member of a fifth wheel trailer and it also has a hitch ball for hitching up to a convention travel trailer. A spring biased lift bracket below the frame keeps the drive wheels off the ground when the trailer is empty so that the operator can easily maneuver the dolly into position below the coupling member of a fifth wheel to be moved. A lever supplies pressurized air to the lift, which in turn raises the front end of the fifth wheel trailer. The weight of the trailer is centered on the dolly and also keeps the drive wheels on the ground.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 1989Date of Patent: August 18, 1992Inventor: Dan Pocapalia
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Patent number: 5054151Abstract: A leaf sweeper having a sweeper portion including engine driven, flexible, rotary tines mounted on an engine support frame pivotally connected about a vertical axis to a wheeled main frame. A steering linkage is connected between the engine support frame and wheeled main frame for moving the sweeper portion about the vertical axis through an arc on either side of the longitudinal axis of the wheeled main frame, and a locking control mechanism is connected between the steering linkage and the wheeled main frame for holding the sweeper portion in a selected position relative to the longitudinal axis of the wheeled main frame.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 1990Date of Patent: October 8, 1991Inventor: Jerry C. Estes, Sr.
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Patent number: 5048626Abstract: A drive system for an industrial vehicle which consists substantially of an electric motor, a two-step transmission and a drive wheel and can be pivotally mounted for movement about a vertical axis in the undercarriage of the industrial vehicle. An axis of the electric motor is arranged parallel with respect to the drive wheel. The transmission can be a two-step spur gearing or a combined toothed belt and spur gearing. A swivel bearing is arranged above the drive wheel, the external race of which swivel bearing is received in the gear housing and the internal race of which swivel bearing is mounted onto a swivel pin extending downwardly from the undercarriage, the axis of said swivel pin lying at least approximately in the center rotational plane of the drive wheel, with the electric motor projecting above the area of the undercarriage having the swivel pin.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 1990Date of Patent: September 17, 1991Assignee: Carl Hurth Maschinen- und Zahnradfabrik GmbH & Co.Inventors: Richard Strehler, Wilhelm Schwibach
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Patent number: 5016900Abstract: An outer hollow tube has a rack which can engage a pinion in a crank housing which is clamped to the tongue of a trailer for raising and lowering the hollow tube. An inner hollow shaft is mounted for rotation within the outer tube and carries a steering handle at its upper end. A bracket is mounted to the lower end of the inner hollow shaft and a wheel is mounted for rotation about a horizontal axis to the bracket. An inner shaft extends through the hollow shaft and is connected to a gear train at its lower end for transmitting rotatiion of the inner shaft to rotation of the wheel in the bracket. A crank handle is connected to the upper end of the inner shaft. By manipulating the steering bar and crank handle, the wheel can be steered and driven to move the trailer tongue into a desired position with a socket of the tongue over a ball of a trailer hitch. In this position, the pinion is manually rotated by a second crank handle for raising the tube with respect to the tongue and thereby lowering the tongue.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 1989Date of Patent: May 21, 1991Inventor: Clyde E. McCully
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Patent number: 5014805Abstract: A snow vehicle having a frame, a body, a windscreen on the frame, two front steerable skis and two rear crawler tracks. An engine and drive train are located at the rear for driving both of the tracks. The drive train includes two fluid couplings, each coupling a crawler track, respectively. Two seats are positioned forwardly of the engine at the intersection of two lines seen in plan to extend from the geometric centers of front skis to the geometric center of opposite rear crawler tracks. A steering ski is located between the rear crawler tracks and extends downwardly just below the lower surfaces of the tracks. The ski is mounted to the crawler track suspension and pivots about a substantially vertical axis in a direction opposite to the motion of the front skis.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 1989Date of Patent: May 14, 1991Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Hiroyuki Uchida
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Patent number: 4942638Abstract: A hand-guided mobile cleaning machine particularly a scrubbing machine having a cleaning tool positioned between a rear roller drive assembly and a front roller steering assembly, the steering assembly being operated by a handle-bar mounted on the rear of the machine, the handle-bar being operatively coupled to the steering assembly by either a set of Bowden cables, a sprocket and chain arrangement, or a motor driven gear arrangement.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 1988Date of Patent: July 24, 1990Assignee: Hako-Werke GmbH & Co.Inventor: Kurt Helm
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Patent number: 4915185Abstract: A portable aircraft moving device comprising a portable electric drill containing a drive shaft extending from the drill output shaft to a worm gear reducer having an output shaft connected to a drive wheel that is mounted temporarily to the front wheel of an airplane above the airplane wheel, the drive shaft located inside a straight hollow support tube attached between the drill and the gear reducer, so that by actuating the trigger on the drill, causes the drive shaft to be turned and produce, through the gear reducer, rotation of the drive wheel on an axis parallel to the axis of the airplane's wheel. Pivotal means are employed to allow the drive wheel to be rotated into contact with the airplane wheel, by lowering the drill, to impart rotation to the airplane's wheel and movement to the airplane.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 1988Date of Patent: April 10, 1990Inventor: Peter J. Olson
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Patent number: 4890971Abstract: A warp-beam lifting and transport carriage has an undercarriage with rotatable wheels and at least one wheel fixed in the direction of longitudinal travel. At least one boom, equipped with a roller fixed in the direction of transverse travel, extends obliquely downward and outward from the carriage to lift the longitudinally travelling wheel from the ground when sideways motion is desired. A coupling device changes the steering connection between a drawbar and the rotatable wheels. Steering is accomplished through the coupling device which causes open and crossed chains to act on pinions pivoted on the steerable wheels.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 1986Date of Patent: January 2, 1990Assignee: Hubtex Maschinenbau GmbHInventor: Winfried Heger
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Patent number: 4874055Abstract: A motorized golf cart has a frame that supports a platform upon which a golfer may stand while straddling a golf bag supported upon the platform along an incline. A U-shaped articulated steering bar is provided for adjustable positioning of a handle portion of the bar in forward and intermediate positions for control by a walking and riding golfer, respectively, and in a rear position for supporting the cart upendedly for storage.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 1987Date of Patent: October 17, 1989Inventor: Robin F. C. Beer