Electrical-type Motor Patents (Class 180/216)
  • Patent number: 7293619
    Abstract: A front-wheel motor powered golf trolley comprised of a compact backward tricycle-wheel arrangement and a lightweight stiff open truss chassis. Left and right front wheel assemblies, driven by common drive axle, motorized through silent motor speed reduction, pull the trolley in an easily guided walk-along fashion. The driven front wheels are compliantly isolated from the chassis by sprung front axle support arms. Trolley stance stabilization and steering are by an independently sprung rear wheel/pivot assembly, the pivot being located between the front drive and rear wheel axles. A steering handle is the user-guiding interface and location for all hand operated controls. Upper and lower golf bag supports fold out from the chassis. Stow-ability is compact and without bulkiness. This trolley is adaptable to remote control of power, steering, and braking functions. The trolley also accommodates multiple other user conveniences.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2007
    Inventor: Lawrence Carhart Mitchell, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7285896
    Abstract: The device includes a housing and an outer shell including tightly wound wire coils fitted within the housing. Rotatable armatures including associated commutators are disposed at outer end portions thereof. The armatures further include spring loaded brushes and a plurality of wire coils wrapped intermediately spaced adjacent to the commutators. The device further includes a drive shaft having bearings selectively spaced therealong that defines a fulcrum axis for the armature coils and output shafts connected to the drive shaft. A power supply source is electrically coupled to an A.C. or D.C. motor and disposed external of the housing. The armatures define an epicyclical train for connecting the drive shaft in a linear path so that a driving force can be equally divided between the vehicle wheels to thereby permit one vehicle wheel to revolve faster than another vehicle wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2007
    Inventor: Eugene R. Mallory
  • Patent number: 7234557
    Abstract: An electric vehicle with partitionable frame includes a chassis assembly, a head tube, a front wheel, left and right rear wheels, and a seat. The front wheel is assembled at the base of the head tube through a fork, and the bottom part of the head tube is pivoted and located in the shaft sleeve lying on the front end of the oblique bracket. The seat is assembled on a vertical seat tube lying on the rear section of the chassis assembly. The chassis assembly includes front and rear assemblies that are partitionable. Connecting ends of the two assemblies are set with at least two groups of opposite jacks and opposite punch pins, which appear to be horizontally opposite and mutually embedded and mounted when assemblies are aligned. At least one set of positioning pieces controls the fixed or partitioned state of the two assemblies after they are aligned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2007
    Inventor: Yung Cheng Chen
  • Patent number: 7198122
    Abstract: A device for transporting strollers includes a base member having a plurality of compartments, a plurality of wheels for supporting the base member wherein two such wheels are mounted adjacent the rear portion and another wheel is pivotally mounted to the base member. A plurality of elongated straps are secured to the top surface and to a stroller positioned thereon respectively. The device further includes a mechanism for rotating at least two of the plurality of wheels and a hand-operable remote control unit for selectively transmitting RF signals to the rotating mechanism. The rotating mechanism includes a plurality of motors, at least one power source disposed within select ones of the plurality of compartments, a receiver for receiving the RF signals generated from the remote control, and a microprocessor electrically coupled to the receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2007
    Inventor: Stephen E. Smith
  • Patent number: 7192040
    Abstract: The present invention provides an electric-driven vehicle, which comprises a supporting platform and an upright tube, wherein the supporting platform has first and second ends and a longitudinal axis perpendicular to the first and second ends, the upright tube is fitted at the first end of the supporting platform and operatively connected with the supporting platform, a handle frame is provided on a top end of the upright tube. The electric-driven vehicle further includes two driving wheels operatively mounted at opposite sides of the first end of the supporting platform, at least one steering wheel operatively mounted on a bottom of the second end of the supporting platform, a driving means for the driving wheels, and a power supply means mounted on the bottom of the supporting platform and electrically connected with the driving means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Inventor: Shouchun Xie
  • Patent number: 7124849
    Abstract: A tricycle includes a body with a handlebar stand pivotally connected to a front portion of the body to steer a front wheel rotatably mounted on a front wheel bracket which is mounted to a front side of the body, two rear wheels rotatably and oppositely mounted on a rear side of the body and respectively driven by a motor, two side plates respectively formed on the body to be opposite to each other for supporting a user's feet, a seat pivotally mounted on top of the body and a backrest frame pivotally mounted on top of the body and detachably connected to the seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Assignees: Taiwan An I Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Shun-Tai Huang
  • Patent number: 7059441
    Abstract: A mount frame includes a first frame unit having a first rear frame portion which is provided with an anchoring member and a gripped member. A second frame unit has a second front frame portion provided with a seat post, an anchored member which is disposed to be journalled on the anchoring member about a rotational axis. Thus, the second frame unit is rotatable relative to the axis to facilitate assembly of the first rear frame portion and the second front frame portion. A gripping member is disposed on the second front frame portion to confront the gripped member. A tightening unit is disposed to push the gripping member to abut tightly against the gripped member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Assignee: Kwang Yang Motor Co. Ltd.
    Inventor: Jui-Tien Chen
  • Patent number: 7017685
    Abstract: A zero-emissions electric three-wheeled, enclosed scooter with two 1 hp motors driven from batteries charged by solar panels and a pedal-driven generator; also incorporating an innovative rear wheel drive and suspension system and a tilt capability to reduce parking space requirement to approximately one quarter of that of a conventional automobile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Inventor: Andrew Schoenberg
  • Patent number: 6986397
    Abstract: A riding trailer apparatus useful for controlling a floor treatment implement is provided including a frame, an operator support platform, and a hook-up mechanism structured to enable the apparatus to be operably coupled to one of various, conventional floor treatment implements. The apparatus also includes a drive assembly including a bi-directional DC motor and gear assembly, and an having an electronic controller with a speed board coupled thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Floorstyle Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Bryan Mattson, Michael T. Powers
  • Patent number: 6866109
    Abstract: A mobility vehicle (10) is formed by attaching a pair of scooter (S) bases (16) to a platform (14). Each scooter base includes two wheels (18, 20) and one of the wheels is drivingly connected to a battery (14) operated motor (12) to drive the vehicle. The battery and motor both comprise part of a scooter. A yoke (70) extends between the scooter wheels (18) at the front of the vehicle and a steering column (23) attaches to the yoke for steering for the vehicle as the column is turned. The steering column includes handlebars (24a, 24b) with associated handgrips (25a, 25b) for controlling vehicle speed and braking the vehicle to stop it. A seat (44) mounts on the platform for the operator of the vehicle to sit down while driving it. The seat and steering column are both removable for storing the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2005
    Inventor: Thomas Roach
  • Publication number: 20040144585
    Abstract: A human powered golf cart with an auxiliary power source. There are several embodiments of the invention to accommodate one and two users with both a tricycle chassis, a quadracycle chassis and a bicycle chassis and bodies. A horizontal platform is attached to the back axle of the tricycle chassis and body and a single wheel cart is attached to a bicycle chassis and body. An auxiliary power source in the form of an electric battery and a chain driven electric motor is provided to supplement any power provided by the user(s).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2003
    Publication date: July 29, 2004
    Inventor: Paul M. Vasser
  • Patent number: 6732823
    Abstract: An electric one-bag golf cart that carries a single caddie bag for a player on a golf course is provided. The cart body, including a chassis part, a neck part and a steering device part, is formed as an integral hollow piece using the rotational molding method. The wheel system provided under the chassis consists of one front wheel and two rear wheels, with the front wheel being mounted pivotally on a suspension as a free wheel, while the rear wheels are driving wheels using a differential gear device driven by a motor. At the center of the handlebars, which are made of circular rods, a dial-type speed controller is located, and a brake lever is provided under the steering device, together with a lock mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2004
    Assignee: Billcon Corporation
    Inventor: Yasuhiro Furuta
  • Publication number: 20030135313
    Abstract: The invention relates to a configuration and to a method for disconnecting at least one fixed electric device such as a fixed electric consumer or a fixed electric generator in a motor vehicle. Fixed electric generators, in particular, require fuel. The invention enables the operator of a motor vehicle to be protected against an unpleasant surprise caused by a running fixed electric device that empties the tank. A device for disconnecting fixed electric devices is connected to a measuring device for determining the contents of the tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2002
    Publication date: July 17, 2003
    Inventors: Rolf Bruck, Joachim Grosse, Jorg-Roman Konieczny, Meike Reizig
  • Patent number: 6530445
    Abstract: A variable wheelbase personal mobility vehicle is disclosed comprising a front wheel assembly and a rear wheel assembly. A front wheel is pivotably mounted relative to the front wheel assembly for controlling the direction of movement of the personal mobility vehicle. Plural drive wheels are mounted relative to the rear wheel assembly for driving the personal mobility vehicle. A seat is connected to the rear wheel assembly for supporting an operator. A variable wheelbase mechanism varies the distance between the front wheel and the plural drive wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2003
    Assignee: Electric Mobility Corporation
    Inventors: Michael J. Flowers, Edward J. Hanker, Jr., Edward J. Dwyer, Jr., Lou Madonia, Mark J. Hoskin, Hugh C. McCall, Stephen Jarema, III
  • Patent number: 6491122
    Abstract: An electric scooter is disclosed that has a propulsion system switchable between two modes, one of which allows a higher maximum speed than the other. The mode is selected by a user operated button so constructed that the high-speed mode is selected only while the user continues to operate the switch. A steering angle sensor and a tilt switch-are provided, which prevent the user from selecting the high-speed mode while steering sharply or while going down or across steep slopes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Assignee: Pride Mobility Products Corporation
    Inventors: George Leitner, Scott Meuser
  • Patent number: 6412787
    Abstract: A children's ride-on vehicle that simulates a horse-drawn carriage. The invention includes a carriage section adapted to support a rider, and a horse section coupled to the carriage. One or more wheels are coupled to the carriage and/or horse sections. In one embodiment, the vehicle includes a rein assembly configured to allow a child to steer at least one of the wheels. In another embodiment, at least one of the wheels is configured to impart a vertically reciprocating motion to the vehicle when the vehicle is moving. In another embodiment, the vehicle includes a sound generation system to simulate noises produced by a horse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2002
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventors: Jared Paul Pardi, Daniel J. Damon
  • Patent number: 6390216
    Abstract: A power unit for use with a motorized cart. Two wheels are rotatably mounted to opposite ends of an interconnecting member. In one embodiment, at least one driving motor is housed in at least one of these two wheels. In another embodiment, a driving motor is housed in one of the two wheels, and batteries are housed in the other wheel. In a further embodiment, two opposite platforms are mounted over the interconnecting member in a spaced relation to each other. In yet another embodiment, a battery-accommodating portion is disposed between the two platforms. Batteries are housed in the battery-accommodating portion. Where the cart is a golf cart, the motor and the batteries are concealed from view in every embodiment of the invention. This is favorable from an aesthetical point of view. Furthermore, the space in at least one wheel can be effectively utilized. Where the frame of the golf cart is foldable, it is easy to store and transport the cart.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Hiroshi Sueshige, Seishiyu Sakai
  • Patent number: 6386305
    Abstract: A propulsion motor control apparatus for a battery vehicle including; a steering angle detection device for detecting a steering angle subtended between a common axis of two front wheels, and an axis of a rear wheel. Also included is a ratio computing device for computing a ratio between a distance between an intersection point of the two axes and a front wheel (outer wheel) on a side further from the intersection point, and a distance between the intersection point and a front wheel (inner wheel) on a side closer to the intersection point, based on the steering angle, a function determining device for determining a motor rotation speed/current command value function for the inner wheel based on a motor rotation speed/current command value function for the outer wheel and the obtained ratio, and a control device for individually controlling the respective propulsion motors for the two front wheels based on the two functions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Assignee: Tsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Osamu Nakakita, Tatsuyuki Amamiya, Yoshimi Okazaki
  • Publication number: 20020014360
    Abstract: The propulsion motor control apparatus for a battery vehicle of the invention comprises; a steering angle detection device for detecting a steering angle subtended between a common axis of two front wheels, and an axis of a rear wheel, a ratio computing device for computing a ratio between a distance between an intersection point of the two axes and a front wheel (outer wheel) on a side further from the intersection point, and a distance between the intersection point and a front wheel (inner wheel) on a side closer to the intersection point, based on the steering angle, a function determining device for obtaining a motor rotation speed/current command value function for the inner wheel based on a motor rotation speed/current command value function for the outer wheel and the obtained ratio, and a control device for individually controlling the respective propulsion motors for the two front wheels based on the two functions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 1999
    Publication date: February 7, 2002
    Inventors: OSAMU NAKAKITA, TATSUYUKI AMAMIYA, YOSHIMI OKAZAKI
  • Patent number: 6267190
    Abstract: A small electric vehicle is provided including a frame formed of a plurality of tubular elements, a tubular element connected to the front of the frame and supporting a handle bar and steerable front wheel or runner, a pair of driven rear wheels connected to the rear of the frame, a board fixed to the frame between the rear wheels for supporting a standing occupant, a switch having a contact pin protruding from an upper surface of the board, an electric motor connected to the rear wheels, and a microprocessor connected to the motor, the switch, a battery, a battery charger and a knob on the handle bar for controlling the motor in response to rotation of the knob.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2001
    Assignee: Biga' Italia S.r.l.
    Inventor: Edi Micheletti
  • Patent number: 6158542
    Abstract: A motor-assisted pedal tricycle has two parallel rear wheels mounted on corresponding first and second axially-aligned axles via overriding clutches. The axially-aligned axles are connected to a differential which is driven by an electric motor, and which allows the first and second wheels to rotate independently of one another. Power may also be applied to one of the rear wheels via a pedal mechanism, which is connected to the wheel via an overriding clutch. The tricycle may be operated using pedal power and motor power independently or in combination. Moreover, the rear wheels may rotate in a forward direction independently of the differential, the motor, and the pedals when the motor and the pedals are not in use, or when the vehicle is travelling at a speed faster than that which can be attained under power of the motor and the pedals either independently or in combination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Inventor: Leopold L. Nolet
  • Patent number: 6131683
    Abstract: An electric bicycle 1 comprises a motor powered driving assembly 2 including a flat type DC motor a speed reduction mechanism, a control circuit, a pedal load sensor, and a pedal rotation speed sensor which are integrally assembled together, the motor powered driving assembly being disposed adjacent a lower median portion of a body frame. Through this arrangement it is possible to provide an electric bicycle which affords ease of control and good riding comfort and has relatively low center of gravity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Masami Wada
  • Patent number: 6062328
    Abstract: An electric powered handcart includes a frame, the frame having a proximal and a distal end thereto, a pair of downwardly depending support elements, and a pair of frame brackets. A load plate and a handle are secured to the frame, the handle being secured to one of the pair of frame brackets. A set of wheels is secured to the distal end of the frame and a rear third wheel is secured to the frame and is positioned above and behind the set of wheels secured to the distal end of the frame. An electric motor is operably mounted to the frame and a battery for powering the motor is secured to a battery mount attached to the frame. A drive linkage for driving the set of wheels is operably linked to the motor and to the pair of wheels and a throttle control for controlling the motor speed is secured the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Inventors: Jeffery D. Campbell, Rick Dean Fox
  • Patent number: 6056077
    Abstract: Several embodiments of small vehicles having a relatively narrow body frame assembly supporting front and rear wheels at its ends through suspension systems. A single seat is carried by an upwardly extending rearward portion of the body frame assembly. The body frame assembly is narrow so that a person can stand beside the seat and lower himself into it without having to climb into the vehicle. Various battery arrangements are disclosed all of which have the batteries disposed so that they are inserted and removed in a generally horizontal direction to minimize the degree of lifting required for replacement and insertion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Takashi Kobayashi
  • Patent number: 6021862
    Abstract: A tricycle is driven by an electric motor supplied by batteries recharged by solar panels. Electric braking is used. The batteries and a battery charger are enclosed in a thermally insulated compartment and the batteries are kept warm in cold weather by the heat produced by the battery charger and by electric braking. The solar panels are mounted on the roof of the passenger cabin and/or on the insulated compartment and are oriented towards the sun by a stepper motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2000
    Inventor: Anand M. Sharan
  • Patent number: 5950755
    Abstract: A personal mobility vehicle having a novel support mechanism for the front wheel which maximizes the amount of foot space available for the occupant of the vehicle. The mobility vehicle has a main tubular base frame formed by laterally spaced, longitudinally extending side members joined by a front nose section. The front wheel is mounted within and behind the front nose section by a novel bracket assembly which maximizes the amount of foot space available on the floor board around the wheel housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Inventors: Kenneth Kemmerer, Kenneth Casey
  • Patent number: 5927424
    Abstract: Self-balancing vehicle with at least three wheels resting on the ground, at least two of which wheels are arranged on either side of the center of gravity with respect to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle, and at least one of which wheels is directionally controllable. At least one section of the vehicle is tiltable about the longitudinal axis of the vehicle and a sensor for measuring the magnitude and/or the direction of the load, for the purpose of producing and/or maintaining a change in direction of the directionally controllable wheel during travel, and/or for measuring the magnitude and/or the direction of a change in direction of the directionally controllable wheel during travel, is connected to a control element for controlling the at least one directionally controllable wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1999
    Assignee: Brinks Westmaas B.V.
    Inventors: Christopher Ralph Van Den Brink, Anthonie Van Den Brink, Hendrik Marinus Kroonen
  • Patent number: 5894898
    Abstract: An electric, three-wheeled motor scooter is described which can derive its motive energy either from a solar-electric array on the vehicle or an independent source of electric power. The vehicle has a unique suspension which permits limited lateral rotation of the forward portion of the vehicle relative to the rear portion, and thereby, facilitates handling and ease of use. Speed and acceleration are controlled through a modulated pulse width controller which supplies pulses of electrical energy to the DC motor in response to throttle commands.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1999
    Inventor: Craig C. Catto
  • Patent number: 5890545
    Abstract: An all electric riding bunker rake primarily suited for maintaining sand traps, or bunkers on a golf course. It is embodied as a tricycle-style vehicle having a frame supported on three wheels, an electrically actuated rake lifting mechanism at the rear of the vehicle supported by the frame, and a removable rake attachment connected to the rake lifting mechanism. The rake is dragged on the sand behind the vehicle to smooth the sand in a bunker. An electric motor drives the rear wheels through a gear box, and a regenerative type braking system works in conjunction with the electric motor to slow the vehicle whenever it exceeds eleven miles per hour when driven, or two miles an hour when unattended. The frame supports an onboard electrical battery power source and a hood to which a seat is attached on which the operator sits to control the operation of the vehicle and the rake lifting and lowering function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 6, 1999
    Assignee: Smithco, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald H. Smith, Larry A. Johnson
  • Patent number: 5873425
    Abstract: The rear wheel drive assembly of a motorized stroller includes a transmission unit, a bidirectional motor, a battery unit and a control unit. The transmission unit includes a gear housing to be mounted on a rear wheel support rod of a stroller frame, and a speed reducing gear set mounted operably in the gear housing. The gear set includes an input gear, an output gear driven rotatably by the input gear, and a knurled roller mounted coaxially on one side of the output gear and extending partially out of an open bottom end of the gear housing. The knurled roller contacts the tire portion of a rear wheel on the support rod such that rotation of the input gear results in corresponding rotation of the knurled roller in order to generate friction between the knurled roller and the rear wheel. The motor is mounted on the gear housing and drives rotatably the input gear. The battery unit includes a battery holder mounted on the stroller frame and adapted to receive a storage battery therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1999
    Inventor: Chih-Huang Yang
  • Patent number: 5695021
    Abstract: An electrically-powered scooter vehicle for use by elderly, disabled and infirm people includes a self-locking connection means for connecting front and rear frame portions of the scooter. The scooter is convertible between three-wheel and four-wheel versions without use of tools. Automatic shut-off circuity minimizes inadvertent loss of battery power due to failure to turn off the scooter. An adjustably lockable telescoping tiller facilitates use of the scooter by persons of all sizes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 9, 1997
    Assignee: Pride Health Care, Inc.
    Inventors: Walter Schaffner, Walter Kochan, Carl Kollar
  • Patent number: 5687443
    Abstract: A janitorial cart is small, and narrow enough for use indoors, and will pass through conventional-width doorways. The cart is electrically powered, and the batteries are mounted very low so the lower center of gravity will stabilize the cart. The steering mechanism utilizes a single, rear wheel that can be turned about 90.degree. in each direction to give the cart a small turning radius. Accessories can be mounted on the front and/or the rear of the cart. The preferred accessory for the front is a dust mop apparatus for dust mopping large floor areas, but it is contemplated that brushes, burnishers and carpet sweepers will also be used. The rear accessory is contemplated to be a container for materials or supplies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 18, 1997
    Inventor: Terry D. Moore
  • Patent number: 5573078
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1996
    Inventors: Calvin R. Stringer, Calvin D. Stringer
  • Patent number: 5503243
    Abstract: A self-propelled personal mobility vehicle and frame therefor and method of assembly of the dismantled vehicle. The frame includes a front support for a steerable wheel and a coupling member connected to a rear portion of the frame which is releasibly engagable with a drive assembly operably positioned immediately rearward of the frame. The drive assembly includes a centrally positioned drive gear housing having a transversely extending tubular drive shaft housing and spaced rear support wheels operably connected at each end of the drive shaft housing for supporting and propelling the vehicle. The coupling member is releasibly engaged over the drive shaft housing by first lifting the rear of the frame with the drive assembly resting on the ground. The frame is then moved diagonally rearwardly or toward the drive assembly and downwardly so that, when fully engaged over and upon the drive shaft housing, the coupling member, by frame and vehicle weight alone, prevents further lateral and fore and aft (e.g.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 2, 1996
    Assignee: Merits Health Products Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Thomas E. Kruse
  • Patent number: 5460234
    Abstract: A motor vehicle adapted to be powered by a drive source driven by batteries which includes at least one battery. A control unit includes an electronic controller, a motor driver for a drive source, and a shift motor. The at least one battery and the control unit are integrally formed and disposed in proximity to a drive source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 24, 1995
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Masaaki Matsuura, Kunihiko Tanaka, Hiromi Furuhashi, Yoshinori Kawashima
  • Patent number: 5452773
    Abstract: A side load carrier golf cart is provided which consists of a body member having a front portion, a central portion and a rear portion. A mechanism is within the rear portion of the body member for holding a pair of golf bags at an angle upwardly and forwardly to a side of a driver and passenger in the central portion of the body member. The driver and passenger can remove their clubs from their golf bags without having to leave the central portion of the body member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 26, 1995
    Inventor: Dennis J. Hrupka
  • Patent number: 5452775
    Abstract: A safety or emergency brake system for a slow moving off-road passenger vehicle has a brake lever that is adapted to pivot into contact with a wheel-mounted flexible tire that partially supports the vehicle and then be further pivoted by the tire, as it rotates in a forward direction due to vehicle inertia, into an interference position with the tire that locally deflects the tire to prevent further wheel rotation. The brake is activated by a device sensing impending vehicle impact with an obstacle, or by the vehicle operator, and is initially released by rotation of the tire in a reverse direction as the vehicle is caused to reverse or move backward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 26, 1995
    Assignee: Amigo Mobility International, Inc.
    Inventor: Allen L. Bussinger
  • Patent number: 5383528
    Abstract: A drive system (1) for a motor vehicle is disclosed. The drive system (1) includes left and right wheels (2,3) driven by left and right hydrostatic drive units (5,6), respectively. A rear wheel (4) is used to steer the motor vehicle. A linkage system including links (9,10,12) is used to connect or disconnect the drive units (5,6) to or from their respective wheels (2,3) when the steered rear wheel (4) calls for a direction of turning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 24, 1995
    Inventor: Alexander Nicol
  • Patent number: 5343974
    Abstract: A motor vehicle including modular units for operating two rear wheels of the vehicle the motive unit includes a rigid link which is pivotally connected between the rear wheel and the motive unit, and the motive unit is operable by a motor. A rigid link is pivotally connected, and the rear wheels are spring suspended mounted relative to the frame of the vehicle. In an electrical vehicle form, there is a slidable movable battery pack located in a rear compartment of the vehicle for easy installation and removal from the vehicle. Different traction characteristics can be provided to the motive unit including an integrated motor, integrated gear box, and power input-output shaft accessible to secondary power or an energy recycler unit. Steering is effected by a controller which operates the speed of the driven wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 6, 1994
    Inventor: Jan W. Rabek
  • Patent number: 5318144
    Abstract: A personal mobility vehicle arranged for disassembly and assembly to facilitate transporting of the vehicle. A unitized drive unit, composed two drive wheels, a motor and a transmission for driving the drive wheels in response to the motor, is selectively mounted on and removed from a unitized support frame which serves as the basic support structure for the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 7, 1994
    Assignee: Assembled Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Bernard E. Berlinger, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5316096
    Abstract: The present invention pertains to a portable motorized suitcase which can operate in either self-propelled or manual modes. The suitcase includes an extendable handle which is provided with a multi-position switch, allowing the user to selectively control the speed of the suitcase when in the self-propelled mode, as well as allowing the user to choose between modes of operation. A motor, which is controlled by the multi-position switch located on an extendable handle, conveys power to the ground engaging wheel via a centrifugal clutch arrangement. The clutch allows the motor to propel the suitcase when it is in the self-propelling mode while not hindering the rolling of the wheels when the motor is in the manual mode. Therefore, the motor and clutch arrangement either turns the wheels or allows them to free-wheel, depending upon the operator's positioning of the multi-position switch. Transition between modes of operation occurs automatically in accordance with user manipulation of the switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 31, 1994
    Assignee: Good Marketing, Inc.
    Inventor: Sidney R. Good
  • Patent number: 5277268
    Abstract: A three-wheel fork-lift truck having one rear steering wheel to be turned by a compact steering assembly of simple construction providing sufficient space for accommodating various kinds of attachments. The steering assembly is composed of a pinion provided with the rear steering wheel, a rack engaged with the pinion, and a hydraulic cylinder as an actuator for moving the rack in the axial direction. By moving the rack in lateral direction either to the right or left, the pinion is rotated to turn the rear steering wheel via a steering shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 11, 1994
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toyoda Jidoshokki Seisakusho
    Inventors: Junichi Kuwayama, Hisao Nagata, Masanao Kobayakawa
  • Patent number: 5228533
    Abstract: A scooter that may be easily assembled and assembled without requiring lifting any heavy parts. The scooter may be easily broken down into a main frame, a drive portion, a motor portion and a power transmission portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1993
    Assignee: Genus Medical Inc.
    Inventor: Roger Mitchell
  • Patent number: 5161635
    Abstract: The invention relates to an three-wheel electromotor-driven golf caddie. Two rear wheels (3), driven by an electric motor (18) via a drive transmission (11) are furnished at the cart frame. The front wheel (13) is supported at a wheel fork, which is offset rearwardly and which is rotary supported at a rotary bearing. A brake device is furnished for the two rear wheels (3), where the brake device is preferably actuated with a brake lever (17) via a Bowden cable (8).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1992
    Inventor: Horst-Gregor Kiffe
  • Patent number: 5154251
    Abstract: A three-wheeled scooter having a two part frame assembly defined by first and second frames. The frame assembly uses a mechanical couple to transfer forces through the periphery of the frames. A spring biased pin in the first frame cooperates with apertures in the second frame to lock the frame assembly together. A safety member maintains the pin in a locked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1992
    Assignee: Invacare Corporation
    Inventor: Gerald E. Fought
  • Patent number: 5036938
    Abstract: A riding scooter that may be assembled and dis-assembled without the use of tools is formed of components of a size and weight such that they may be handled by a person of modest physical strength. The scooter's front and rear sections have overlapping interengaging parts that are biased together in the operative position by the weight of the sections alone. Batteries for electrical power are contained within casings which are cooperatively retained within a battery housing and which also permit the batteries to be simultaneously electrically connected to the vehicle electrical system upon insertion of the battery casings within the battery housing. A steering tiller is detachably mounted to the front steering yoke being retained in an operative position by a quick release locking collar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 6, 1991
    Inventors: Wendell G. Blount, Henry L. Lackey, Ronald J. Mosetich, Bedford F. Peeples, David L. Kimbro, William J. Saunders, Lloyd M. Yardley, J. Douglas Alsup, Samuel C. Crosby
  • Patent number: 5020624
    Abstract: A modular power drive scooter, including as modular components a seat, a seat post, a mainframe, a trailer and at least one battery, is built in a manner allowing quick and easy disassembly of the scooter for compact storage. In assembled form, the seat post supports the seat and also serves as a lock pin which prevents separation of the mainframe from the trailer. The mainframe includes a front wheel, a tiller assembly for steering the scooter, and recesses for accommodating one or more batteries. The trailer includes a pair of rear wheels coupled to a differential which is driven by an electric motor, and a removable storage tray that provides access to the motor. A stem member extending from the trailer engages the mainframe in an overlapping relation whereby apertures in the stem member align with ports in the mainframe. The seat post is inserted into a selected port to determine the spacing of the seat from the tiller assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 4, 1991
    Assignee: Everest & Jennings, Inc.
    Inventors: Elaine M. Nesterick, Robert W. Reynolds, Spencer L. MacKay, Cleve A. Graham
  • Patent number: 4947955
    Abstract: A personal mobility vehicle comprises front and rear frame sections which can be disassembled and assembled. The frame sections are secured together by a pivotable detachable connection such that the rear frame section is lockingly received in the rear portion of the front frame section and the length of the assembled frame is substantially the same as the length of the front frame section itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 14, 1990
    Assignee: Electric Mobility Corp.
    Inventor: Robert C. Hopely, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4909525
    Abstract: A personal mobility vehicle comprises front and rear frame sections which can be disassembled and assembled. The frame sections are secured together by a pivotable detachable connection such that the rear frame section is lockingly received in the rear portion of the front frame section and the length of the assembled frame is substantially the same as the length of the front frame section itself. An auxiliary frame section is also provided which can be readily attached to the powered rear frame section to provide improved mobility in those situations in which space for turning is limited.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 20, 1990
    Inventor: Michael Flowers
  • Patent number: RE33675
    Abstract: A motorized wheel chair is provided comprising a chassis having two rear wheels and one front wheel mounted thereon. The front wheel is steerable by a handlebar. The rear wheels are driven by an electric motor, coupled to a gearbox, for reducing the speed of the wheel chair. The gearbox drives a friction drive assembly which is engageable with the rear wheels and also is coupled to the handlebar such that one of the rear wheels will be disengaged depending upon which direction the handlebar is turned. The device is provided with a switch which cuts power to the device when a change in surface elevation of a desired amount is detected either in front of or behind the device. A second switch may be provided to stop the vehicle upon contact with a foreign object. A third switch may be activated remotely to stop the device. Also, the chassis is adjustable in length, such that as a child grows the device may be adjusted accordingly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 27, 1991
    Assignee: Sinties Corporation
    Inventor: Alva L. Young