Motor Vehicles With Short Wheelbase Patents (Class 180/908)
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Patent number: 7743864Abstract: One embodiment of the invention is a multi-purpose vehicle having a frame, a suspension secured to the frame, four wheels tires secured to the suspension, and handlebars for steering the vehicle. The vehicle also includes a straddle mount seat secured to the frame with seating positions for a driver and a passenger of the vehicle. The seating position for the passenger is located rearward on the vehicle relative to the seating position of the driver. The vehicle also has foot and hand positions for the passenger. Optionally, the vehicle includes a backrest and armrests for the passenger.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2002Date of Patent: June 29, 2010Assignee: Arctic Cat Inc.Inventor: Ole Tweet
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Patent number: 7726689Abstract: An anti-tip system is provided for improving the stability of a powered vehicle, such as a powered wheelchair. The vehicle includes a drive-train assembly pivotally mounted to a main structural frame. A suspension system biases the drive-train assembly and its connected anti-tip wheel to a predetermined resting position. The drive-train assembly bi-directionally rotates about a pivot in response to torque applied to or acceleration forces on the vehicle. A linkage arrangement is provided and is characterized by a suspension arm pivotally mounting to the main structural frame about a pivot at one end thereof and an anti-tip wheel at the other end. The linkage may further include at least one link operable to transfer the bi-directional displacement of the drive-train assembly to the suspension arm. The link may include a bell crank member and/or may be resiliently compressible.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2008Date of Patent: June 1, 2010Assignee: Pride Mobility Products CorporationInventors: James P. Mulhern, Ronald Levi, Christopher E. Grymko
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Patent number: 7717206Abstract: An off-road vehicle includes a frame and four wheels that support the frame. Two seat assemblies are disposed side by side on the frame. The seat assemblies are separated from each other to define a space therebetween. An engine powers the wheels. The engine defines an air intake port that communicates with a combustion chamber. An air intake system delivers air to the intake port. At least a portion of the air intake system extends through the space.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2007Date of Patent: May 18, 2010Assignees: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha, Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Corporation of AmericaInventors: Norihiko Tanaka, Kazuhiko Izumi, Akira Inui, Eiji Kato, Colby Nash
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Patent number: 7694769Abstract: A vehicular frame assembly includes a mainframe, a support bracket, and a subframe. The support bracket is coupled with the mainframe. The subframe is coupled with the support bracket such that the subframe is stationary with respect to the mainframe. The support bracket is configured for pivotal attachment to a suspension element. Vehicles including a frame assembly having a support bracket are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 2008Date of Patent: April 13, 2010Assignee: Honda Motor Company, Ltd.Inventor: Jeremy T. McGuire
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Patent number: 7690661Abstract: A suspension structure is configured to ensure a large stroke of a shock absorber in a suspension device without moving an upper end supporting position of a damper upward relative to a conventional mounting position. The suspension structure includes a rear suspension for suspending left and right rear wheels. The rear suspension includes left and right lower arms for supporting the left and right rear wheels by way of knuckles, and left and right rear shock absorbers interposed between the respective lower arms and a sub-frame of a vehicle body frame. A lower end connecting portion of the rear shock absorber is cantilevered to a front side of the lower arm.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2007Date of Patent: April 6, 2010Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yuichiro Tsuruta, Takashi Shichinohe, Masahiro Yamaguchi
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Patent number: 7686121Abstract: A refueling operation of an all terrain vehicle can be enhanced, even when a fuel tank is arranged below a seat, without changing an entire length of the vehicle. A fuel tank is arranged below a seat. A seat concave portion with a substantially concave shape when viewed from the top is formed in the seat. A fuel filler of the fuel tank is arranged in the seat concave portion to be seen from the top. It becomes possible to perform refueling from the fuel filler without detaching the seat. Also, an overlap between the seat and the fuel filler when viewed from above is avoided, with a reduction in a seating area of the seat minimized.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2006Date of Patent: March 30, 2010Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Masao Takeshima, Masatoshi Sato
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Patent number: 7650959Abstract: An off-road vehicle includes a frame and four wheels that support the frame. An engine powers the wheels. The engine is mounted on the frame. The frame includes multiple frame members that surround the engine. One of the frame members disposed behind the engine is detachably affixed to the rest of the frame members. The frame members are divided into first and second groups. The first and second groups are offset fore to aft relative to each other and overlap with each other in a rear section of the first group and in a front section of the second group. The rear section of the first group defines a bent portion coupled with the second group. The front section of the second group defines a bent portion coupled with the first group.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2004Date of Patent: January 26, 2010Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Eiji Kato, Colby Nash
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Patent number: 7641217Abstract: A detachable mobile seat includes a first part connected to a motor; a second part attached to the seat; and two links, each connected to the first part, the second part, and a wheel. The links transfer movement of the first part to the wheels. The first part includes a shaft connected to the motor, and two nuts disposed around the shaft that have screw threads in opposite directions and move along the shaft in response to operation of the motor. Each link includes a first link connected to the second part and to the nut, and a second link connected to the nut and to the wheel. The end of each second link that is nearest the wheel is rotatably connected to a connecting arm that has a rotating bar that rotates the wheel in response to operation of the links.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2007Date of Patent: January 5, 2010Assignee: Hyundai Motor CompanyInventors: Yeon Sang Yoo, Ju Young Lee
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Patent number: 7637343Abstract: A small-sized vehicle, such as an ATV (All Terrain Vehicle), includes an engine having an output shaft, a front gear mechanism including a first shaft on a side of a front wheel to which a drive force from a front output shaft portion of the output shaft is transmitted, and a rear gear mechanism including a first shaft on a side of a rear wheel to which a drive force from a rear output shaft portion of the output shaft is transmitted. The front output shaft portion of the output shaft and the first shaft of the front gear mechanism are arranged substantially coaxial with each other, and the rear output shaft portion of the output shaft and the first shaft of the rear gear mechanism are arranged substantially coaxial with each other. The small-sized vehicle is capable of preventing vibrations and noise from being generated.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2006Date of Patent: December 29, 2009Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Seiji Nakagaki, Kazuhiko Izumi
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Patent number: 7631715Abstract: A golf caddy vehicle comprise a seat assembly mounted on a frame of the vehicle at an attachment location ahead of an axis of rotation of a pair of rear drive wheels via at least one spring element. A pair of rear legs of the seat assembly are pivotally coupled to the at least one spring member at a location behind the axis of rotation of the rear drive wheels, and a pair of front legs of the seat assembly are releasably attached to the frame by a pair of frictional fittings which may be formed of vibration damping material. The seat assembly pivots back to allow a golf bag to be loaded onto the vehicle frame and straddled by the seat assembly.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2008Date of Patent: December 15, 2009Inventor: Thomas L. Falkiner
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Patent number: 7617904Abstract: A transmission assembly for a vehicle, the transmission assembly having an energy storing mechanism linking its gear selector to the gear shifting mechanism and adapted to limit the force applied to the gear shifting mechanism through the gear selector.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2006Date of Patent: November 17, 2009Assignee: BRP-Powertrain GmbH & Co KGInventors: Fritz Einboeck, Roland Ennsmann
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Patent number: 7607368Abstract: A locking assembly for a motor vehicle of a saddle riding type includes, a reverse lock disposed in a transmission of the vehicle for preventing a shift change of the transmission into reverse when the vehicle is traveling forward, and a lock release mechanism having an actuator, wherein the lock release mechanism is disposed in an opening in a front fender of the vehicle, such that the actuator projects above the opening. Further the locking assembly includes a cable operatively connecting the lock release mechanism with the reverse lock, such that actuation of the actuator causes the reverse lock to be released, a main body of the lock release mechanism housed beneath the opening on an underside of the fender for covering the lock release mechanism, and a cover body disposed on the fender, such that sides of the actuator and the opening are covered.Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 2004Date of Patent: October 27, 2009Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Shinji Takahashi, Nobuhiko Nakano
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Patent number: 7600603Abstract: A structure for attaching an electrically-operated power steering apparatus for a vehicle. The structure includes a body frame, more specifically, sub slant frames having respective motor brackets for supporting an actuator unit. The motor brackets have bolts that fasten the actuator unit, and the bolts extend perpendicularly to a steering shaft. With this configuration, the structure is not affected by a manufacturing error of a body frame and other parts of the vehicle. Further, the structure takes account of a direction in which fastening means is tightened.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2006Date of Patent: October 13, 2009Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Megumu Okada, Keita Yagi, Kihoko Kaita
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Patent number: 7600599Abstract: This invention relates to multiple driven axle vehicles, and particularly to all-terrain vehicles equipped for rear wheel drive, four wheel drive, and on-demand front wheel drive. The invention is directed toward a system of switchable traction options allowing the vehicle operator to easily choose between different modes, such as rear wheel drive with an open or unlocked differential, rear wheel drive with a locked differential, four wheel drive with open differentials, four wheel drive with one locked differential, four wheel drive with two locked differentials, or rear wheel drive with on-demand four wheel drive.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2007Date of Patent: October 13, 2009Assignee: Polaris Industries Inc.Inventors: Nathan Dahl, Jeff Lovold, Tim Wysocki, Scott Ostroski, Dan Dewolfe, Sean Sherrod
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Patent number: 7571787Abstract: A vehicle comprising a frame, at least one wheel operable to contact a substantially horizontal support surface, a prime mover supported by the frame and in driving engagement with the at least one wheel, a suspension system operable to maintain the frame in an upright position while driving along a straight path and to permit the frame to lean relative to the support surface while cornering, and at least two headlights coupled to the suspension system and arranged in a substantially horizontal configuration, wherein the headlights remain in the substantially horizontal configuration when the frame is in the upright position and when the frame is leaning.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2006Date of Patent: August 11, 2009Assignee: Harley-Davidson Motor Company Group, LLCInventor: Scott J. Saiki
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Patent number: 7571914Abstract: The present invention is a shopping cart collection device adapted to engage to first and second shopping carts and capable of pulling a first train of shopping carts extending from the first shopping cart and pushing a second train of shopping carts extending from the second shopping cart. The device comprises a motorized unit comprising a drive wheel, a first hitch and a second hitch. The first hitch is proximate a first side of the motorized unit and is adapted to engage the first shopping cart. The second hitch is proximate a second side of the motorized unit opposite the first side and is adapted to engage the second shopping cart.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2006Date of Patent: August 11, 2009Assignee: Dane Industries, Inc.Inventors: Paul D. Holtan, Daniel T. Johnson, James W. Wiff
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Patent number: 7556109Abstract: An electric wheelchair suspension includes a supporting frame unit and two linkages. The supporting frame unit includes a bottom frame, two posts, and two main rods. Each of the linkages includes an upper link, a lower link, a front caster rod, a bottom link, and a rear link. The upper links are connected respectively and pivotally to the main rods. The lower links are connected respectively and pivotally to the posts. Each of the front caster rods is connected pivotally to the upper and lower links of a corresponding one of the linkages. The bottom links are connected pivotally to the bottom frame. Each of the rear links is connected pivotally to a corresponding one of the upper links and a corresponding one of the bottom links.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2006Date of Patent: July 7, 2009Assignee: Kwang Yang Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yung-Hsin Chen, Yung-Yuan Liao
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Patent number: 7543672Abstract: A straddle-type three-wheeled vehicle has a frame having an upper frame member, a lower frame member, a forward cross member interconnecting a forward portion of the upper frame member with a forward portion of the lower frame member, and a rearward cross member interconnecting a rearward portion of the upper frame member with a rearward portion of the lower frame member. A strut extends diagonally from the forward cross member to the lower frame member. The vehicle has an engine mounted to the frame. An air box of the vehicle has at least a portion thereof disposed above at least a portion of the engine. A fuel tank of the vehicle is disposed rearwardly of the air box.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 2006Date of Patent: June 9, 2009Assignee: Bombardier Recreational Products Inc.Inventors: Bruce Codere, Brian Mastine
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Patent number: 7530420Abstract: A vehicle drivetrain (110) includes an engine (122) with a vertical crankshaft (124), a first transmission (126) below the engine and driven by the crankshaft, a second transmission (128) above the first transmission and horizontally adjacent the engine and having an input driven by the first transmission and having an output providing vehicle propulsion. A module pre-assembled unit is ready for drop-in mounting to a vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2004Date of Patent: May 12, 2009Assignee: American Off-Road Technologies, LLCInventors: Richard A. Davis, Eric A. Davis, Brian P. Davis
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Patent number: 7513324Abstract: Children's ride-on vehicles having charge indicator assemblies that are adapted to provide at least a visual indication of the state of charge of the ride-on's battery assembly. The vehicles are reduced-scale vehicles, often formed substantially from molded plastic, that are sized for use by children and which include battery-powered motor assemblies. The vehicles include a charge indicator assembly that is adapted to selectively assess an input voltage from the battery assembly and provide an output representative of the relative state of charge of the battery assembly. In some embodiments, the charge indicator assembly includes a charge indicator module that is mounted on the vehicle's body, optionally in a position to be accessed by a child operating the ride-on, and which includes a button or other actuator adapted to cause the charge indicator assembly to assess the state of charge of the battery assembly.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2005Date of Patent: April 7, 2009Assignee: Mattel, Inc.Inventors: Mark J. Bergum, Kurt J. Huntsberger
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Patent number: 7506714Abstract: A two or more person RUV (recreational utility vehicle) is provided with a multi-place multi-planar saddle seat assembly, multi-place multi-planar foot board assemblies, and grip handles.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2007Date of Patent: March 24, 2009Assignee: American Off-Road Technologies LLCInventors: Richard A. Davis, Eric A. Davis, Russell R. Kleiser
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Patent number: 7481293Abstract: A power steering apparatus for being protected from mud or dust, or rainwater. A sub-steering unit is provided together with a torque sensor of the power steering apparatus used in a vehicle. A steering shaft portion includes an input shaft and an output shaft, each being rotatably supported. A torque sensor portion is connected for joining the input shaft and the output shaft with the torque sensor portion sensing an amount of torque. A power assist portion is engaged with the output shaft for assisting the steering based on the amount of torque sensed by the torque sensor portion and the like. A sub-steering portion is engaged so as to connect the input shaft with the output shaft while circumventing the torque sensor portion and reducing the amount of torque. The power steering apparatus includes a column cover for covering the sub-steering portion as well as the torque sensor portion.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2005Date of Patent: January 27, 2009Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Sumitaka Ogawa, Tomokazu Sakamoto, Hideo Yanai
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Patent number: 7472923Abstract: A cart has an assistant stand mechanism, which includes two first casters, a pair of metallic angle plates, a support rod, and a second caster with a brake; each of the first casters is fitted to one of two rear lateral straight parts of a chassis; the metallic angle plates are each screwed onto a respective one of the rear lateral straight parts of the chassis; the support rod is secured to the metallic angle plates at two ends such that it crosses the cart, and is normally perpendicular to the ground where the cart stands; the second caster is fitted to the support rod; further, there are two sloping rods, each connected to the support rod at one end, and connected to a corresponding metallic angle plate at the other end; thus, the cart can stand on the casters with the chassis in upright position.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2006Date of Patent: January 6, 2009Assignee: Freerider Corp.Inventor: Arthur Wang
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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: 7445075Abstract: A four-wheeled vehicle includes a steering mechanism having a bar handle, right and left front wheels, and right and left rear wheels. The vehicle includes a front cover and a windshield disposed in front of the bar handle. The vehicle includes a driver's seat, and a rear passenger seat disposed behind the driver's seat and between the rear wheels. The rear passenger seat is directed forwardly. The vehicle includes a power unit part disposed below the rear passenger seat, and a body cover disposed rearwardly of the driver's seat.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2003Date of Patent: November 4, 2008Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Eiji Ozawa, Oumi Iida, Seiji Higashihara, Yumio Shibata, Koichi Sugioka, Kiyotaka Fujiwara, Paolo Allasia, Marco Ferrario, Raffaele Vergano, Andreas Wachtler
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Patent number: 7438153Abstract: An off-road vehicle for traveling over land includes a frame, an engine, a transmission, and a seating arrangement. The frame has a forward end and a rearward end. The vehicle includes a longitudinal axis extending from the forward end to the rearward end. A single or tandem seating arrangement is arranged along the longitudinal axis in certain embodiments. The engine is secured to the frame. The engine includes at least one cylinder and a crankshaft with a crankcase fastened generally beneath the cylinder. A transmission is coupled to the engine crankshaft. The transmission extends forwardly from the crankshaft toward the forward end of the frame along the longitudinal axis. A side-by-side seating arrangement is secured to the frame generally along an axis substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle. An air intake is provided at the forward side of the cylinder with an exhaust out the rearward side.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2005Date of Patent: October 21, 2008Assignee: Artic Cat Inc.Inventors: Kenneth Kalsnes, Robert Rauch
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Patent number: 7431109Abstract: A power supply assembly is provided for a vehicle, such as a Personalized Motorized Vehicle (PMV), including a detachable mounting assembly therefor which facilitates the ease of attachment of a Power Supply Unit (PSU) to a main structural frame of the vehicle, provides a positive electrical and structural connection therebetween, and integrates the power supply assembly with the external geometry of the vehicle to provide an aesthetically pleasing external appearance. The power supply assembly includes a pair of PSUs. A segment of one PSU unit overlaps a segment of another PSU unit and another segment of one PSU overlaps a portion of the main structural frame. Electrical connectors are disposed in combination with the overlapping housing segments for electrically coupling the PSUs and at least one PSU to the vehicle. The power supply, assembly, furthermore includes a retention subassembly for structurally connecting each PSU to the main structural frame.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 2004Date of Patent: October 7, 2008Assignee: Pride Mobility Products CorporationInventors: Colburn L. Jones, James M. Kosco, Mark A. Goodell
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Patent number: 7431121Abstract: A drive section of an industrial truck has a vehicle frame (1), a drive unit (4) having a steerable drive wheel, and at least one pivoting roller (5, 6) located at a lateral offset in relation to the drive wheel (4d). The vehicle frame (1), when viewed in the transverse direction of the drive section, has a first, centrally located mounting for the drive unit (4) and a second, laterally located mounting for the drive unit (4). Optionally, a drive unit (4) or a pivoting roller (5, 6) can be fastened to the mounting that is located to the side. The vehicle frame (1) has a mounting for a pivoting roller (5, 6) on the side opposite the lateral mounting for the drive unit (4).Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2005Date of Patent: October 7, 2008Assignee: Linde Material Handling GmbHInventors: Eric Goguelet, Dominique Rousseau
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Patent number: 7426970Abstract: The disclosed articulated wheel assemblies and associated vehicles, for example wheelchairs, include articulated wheel assemblies with at least one offset connecting arm rotatably attached at one end to a payload platform, for example a seat, and attached at the other end to a linear actuator, where the linear actuator is further connected to a wheel. Embodiments include a rotary actuator for varying the linear actuator swing angle, a rotary actuator for eccentrically rotating a hubless wheel, a linear actuator motor for varying the length of the linear actuator, and a propulsion motor. Embodiments provide omnidirectional motion, stepping action when presented with obstacles, irregular surface negotiation, tight space maneuvering and other features to provide disabled people increased mobility. Alternate embodiments include a payload platform with a support strut, which is rotatably attached to an offset connecting arm and pivotally mounted to a seat.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 2006Date of Patent: September 23, 2008Inventor: Christopher J. Olsen
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Patent number: 7413038Abstract: An anti-tip system is provided for improving the stability of a powered vehicle, such as a powered wheelchair. The vehicle includes a drive-train assembly which is pivotally mounted to a main structural frame. A suspension system biases the drive-train assembly and its connected anti-tip wheel to a predetermined resting position. The drive-train assembly bi-directionally rotates about a pivot in response to torque applied to or acceleration forces on the vehicle. A linkage arrangement is provided and is characterized by a suspension arm pivotally mounting to the main structural frame about a pivot at one end thereof and an anti-tip wheel at the other end. The linkage may further include at least one link operable to transfer the bi-directional displacement of the drive-train assembly to the suspension arm. The link may include a bell crank member and/or may be resiliently compressible.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2005Date of Patent: August 19, 2008Assignee: Pride Mobility Products CorporationInventors: James P. Mulhern, Ronald Levi, Christopher E. Grymko
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Patent number: 7407032Abstract: The present invention provides for a practical and entertaining form of recreational transportation, easily transportable to weekend events. It is a compact transport kart (10), designed to carry at least one human passenger. It also transports its passenger across open road, or off-road terrain. The transport kart provides advantages and benefits over the prior art through use of a most unique type of body element (20), comprising of, or substantially resembling, a common ice-chest or common cooler. The body element can be selected of sufficient size and shape to also carry additional passengers, plus can be configured to carry ice and refreshments. The transport kart includes a power source (23) for propulsion, plus a set of wheels (21) and (22) mounted for rotation. A rotational output from the power source is drivingly connected to at least one of those wheels, therefore providing for a most unique and entertaining form of transportation.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 2006Date of Patent: August 5, 2008Assignee: GCC Innovations, LLCInventors: Gary C. Chambers, Chance A. Chambers
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Patent number: 7404568Abstract: A two-seater all-terrain vehicle (ATV) has straddle-type driver and rear passenger seats, and a pair of movable rear footrests to support the feet of a rear passenger. The rear footrests pivot from a stowed non-supporting position to a supporting position. When folded into the non-supporting position, the rear footrests become substantially flush with side paneling of the vehicle. The all-terrain vehicle may further include a pair of vertical and horizontal adjustment mechanisms for independently vertically adjusting each of the rear passenger footrests so that passengers of varying height can be comfortably accommodated on the rear seat. A cargo space is provided under the passenger's footrest, the cargo space being enlarged when the passenger's footrests are in the stowed position. Restraints and other holding mechanisms are also provided. The flip-down adjustable rear footrests may be used on other types of straddle-type recreational vehicles.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2005Date of Patent: July 29, 2008Assignee: Bombardier Recreational Products Inc.Inventors: Martin Portelance, Daniel Nadeau, Eric Dube, Mathieu Audet, Jamie Ibbett
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Patent number: 7389835Abstract: A linkage arrangement for an active anti-tip system is provided for improving the stability of a powered vehicle, such as a powered wheelchair. The vehicle includes a drive-train assembly which is pivotally mounted to a main structural frame. A suspension system biases the drive-train assembly and its connected anti-tip wheel to a predetermined resting position. The drive-train assembly bi-directionally rotates about a pivot in response to torque applied to or acceleration forces on the vehicle. The linkage arrangement is characterized by a suspension arm pivotally mounting to the main structural frame about a pivot at one end thereof and an anti-tip wheel at the other end. The linkage further includes at least one link operable to transfer the bi-directional displacement of the drive-train assembly to the suspension arm and may also include a bell crank link member.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 2004Date of Patent: June 24, 2008Assignee: Pride Mobility Products CorporationInventors: James P. Mulhern, Ronald Levi, Christopher E. Grymko
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Patent number: 7377570Abstract: An all-terrain vehicle (ATV) with an elongated wheelbase has a rear-mounted receptacle for receiving one of a plurality of interchangeable modular components, such as a passenger seat, a cargo container, a cargo rack, a flatbed or a workbench. The modular component has an electrical connection and a mechanical connector on an underside thereof which has hooks and posts for engaging, respectively, a transverse rod and sockets. A latching mechanism locks the modular component to the rear of the vehicle. Accordingly, the modular component is selectively releasable to easily and quickly interchange one modular component with another.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2004Date of Patent: May 27, 2008Assignee: Bombardier Recreational Products Inc.Inventors: Pierre Rondeau, Jeannot Belanger, Auger Guillaume, Mathieu Audet
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Patent number: 7363999Abstract: A utility vehicle is provided which has a CVT drive unit. A housing for the drive unit provides an enclosure for the CVT drive components and defines an air flow path. An inlet port associated with the CVT housing includes a fan assembly which provides a source for filtered ambient air flow into the CVT housing. An outlet port associated with the CVT housing provides an exit for the air flow path and equalizes pressure within the enclosure. The interior of the housing is pressurized with ambient air in order to cool the CVT components therein. The pressurized air also creates an air curtain which prevents moisture and debris from intruding into the housing. Preferably the fan is powered separately from the engine of the utility vehicle to ensure positive air flow into the CVT housing even when the engine is in idle mode.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 2005Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: Bush Hog, LLCInventor: Dawson W. Hastings
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Patent number: 7343998Abstract: An all-terrain vehicle (ATV) has a subtransmission detachably fastened to an engine casing. The engine crankshaft includes a drive pulley connected via a belt to a driven pulley in the subtransmission, thus providing a continuously variable transmission (CVT) between the engine crankshaft and the subtransmission. The subtransmission includes a 2WD-4WD selector mechanism to select two-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive and also includes a transmission selector mechanism to put the vehicle in park, neutral, reverse, high-speed drive or low-speed drive. By disposing these selector mechanisms in the subtransmission, mass centralization is improved relative to prior-art drivetrains wherein the 2WD-4WD selector mechanism connects to the front differential. When operating in 2WD mode, the drivetrain does not waste energy rotating the front drive shaft, as in the prior art.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2005Date of Patent: March 18, 2008Assignees: Bombardier Recreational Products Inc., BRP-Rotax GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Vincent Morin, Ghislain Caron, Ronald Schapf, Roland Ennsmann
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Patent number: 7290628Abstract: In a system and method for enabling a person to be transported in a personal transport vehicle, the vehicle includes smoothly operable controls and a safety user-positioning strip. The vehicle further includes a power source rapid disconnection and connection system for recharge and replacement and for secure connection. Also, the vehicle may include a safety speed regulator, and a bi-directional safety braking system. Further, the vehicle includes a preferential drive sharp-turns enabling system. The vehicle further includes an initially-flat indicia-applicable cowling. It may also include a protective security lock, a further or alternative braking system, and a trailer for enabling the carrying of items, and may be readily separable for shipping.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 2004Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: American Chariot CompanyInventors: James R. Kirkpatrick, Joshua D. McDonald
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Patent number: 7287619Abstract: An off-road vehicle includes a frame and four wheels that support the frame. Two seat assemblies are disposed side by side on the frame. The seat assemblies are separated from each other to define a space therebetween. An engine powers the wheels. The engine defines an air intake port that communicates with a combustion chamber. An air intake system delivers air to the intake port. At least a portion of the air intake system extends through the space.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2004Date of Patent: October 30, 2007Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Norihiko Tanaka, Kazuhiko Izumi, Akira Inui, Eiji Kato, Colby Nash
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Patent number: 7261174Abstract: An accessory socket is provided for easily supplying power to an accessory device of an all-terrain vehicle. A rear carrier is mounted to the rear portion of the vehicle, and a rear cowl is provided downwardly thereof. The rear cowl is provided with a pair of left and right rear combination lamps and an accessory socket for supplying power to accessory parts therebetween at the position adjacent to the rear combination lamp.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2004Date of Patent: August 28, 2007Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Takao Yamamoto
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Patent number: 7252168Abstract: A modular type motor-driven vehicle includes a front half module, a rear half module and a retainer unit. The front half module includes a front vehicle frame, a front vehicle body shell disposed fixedly on the front vehicle frame, and a seat disposed fixedly on the front vehicle body shell. The rear half module includes a rear vehicle frame, a rear vehicle body shell disposed fixedly on the rear vehicle frame, and a driving unit disposed between the rear vehicle frame and the rear vehicle body shell. The retainer unit includes an engaging member connected fixedly to the front half module, a handle unit disposed on the rear half module, a hook member biased to engage the engaging member so as to retain the front half module on the rear half module. The handle unit is operable so as to disengage the hook member from the engaging member.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2005Date of Patent: August 7, 2007Assignee: Kwang Yang Motor Co., LtdInventors: Tsang-Mao Lin, Jui-Tien Chen
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Patent number: 7182169Abstract: A steering system for a small-sized vehicle is capable of coaxially arranging a steering shaft and a power steering apparatus with high accuracy. In the steering system, when the power steering apparatus is connected to the steering shaft, a plurality of bearings support the steering shaft on a vehicle body frame, and where the axis of the steering shaft arranged at a desired position is a reference axis, at least one of the bearings is configured to compensate for an inclination of the steering shaft or further, to compensate for a deviation from the bearing which is centered with respect to the reference axis.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2004Date of Patent: February 27, 2007Inventor: Yasuhiro Suzuki
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Patent number: 7163460Abstract: An engine to transmission coupler includes an isolator that dampens, reduces or eliminates torque spikes and vibrations transmitted to the transmission. The isolator is located between the flywheel and a flywheel adaptor plate mounted to the flywheel. A universal joint assembly extends through central openings in the flywheel adaptor plate and isolator.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2004Date of Patent: January 16, 2007Assignee: Deere & CompanyInventor: Rob van Wouw
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Patent number: 7137467Abstract: A straddle type vehicle having an improved external appearance includes a connecting rod, the movement of which can be detected reliably by an input section of a brake switch. A structure around a brake switch of a straddle type vehicle including a foot rest disposed on the front portion side of a crankcase, a brake pedal having a rotational axis near the foot rest, a master cylinder capable actuating a brake by pressing a pressurization section, a connecting rod connecting a turnable operation section of the brake pedal and the master cylinder and capable of pressurizing the pressurization section through turning movement of the brake pedal, and a brake switch capable of lighting up a brake lamp through detection of the movement of the connecting rod by an input section, wherein the master cylinder is fixed on the rear portion side of the crankcase, and the input section of the brake switch is disposed near the master cylinder.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2005Date of Patent: November 21, 2006Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Yasuhito Suzuki
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Patent number: 7128341Abstract: A front storage box for use on an all-terrain vehicle. The front storage box comprises two components: an accessory box and a cargo rack. The accessory box forms a storage compartment in which cargo may be stowed. The cargo rack is integral with a lid for the accessory box and functions to both seal the accessory box and act as a rack. Thus, items may be placed in the accessory box and on the rack for hauling.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2003Date of Patent: October 31, 2006Assignee: Polaris Industries Inc.Inventors: Nathan Dahl, Tim Wysocki, Jeff Lovold, Tony Pink, Todd Dannenberg, Tom McCoubrey
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Patent number: 7100718Abstract: A self-propelled wheelchair (1, 101) comprising a frame (2, 102) supporting a seat (3, 103), two drive wheels (5, 105) mounted to the front of the frame, a prime mover mounted to the frame so as to drive the two drive wheels. The wheelchair having at least one castor wheel (7, 107) mounted to the rear of the frame and pivotal about a substantially vertical axis (Y), the frame being height adjustable in such a manner that when the frame is lowered, the seat is simultaneously tilted backwardly. The frame is provided with an anchoring mechanism (116) which allows the wheelchair to be releasably anchored to an anchoring element (119) secured to the floor.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2002Date of Patent: September 5, 2006Assignee: Baribunma Holdings LimitedInventor: Peter John Bancroft
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Patent number: 7093872Abstract: A golf cart trunk has a trunk enclosure (1) affixed to at least one support component (2) proximate aft of a seat (3) of a golf cart (4). The trunk enclosure includes a predetermined door (7) that is openable, closable and lockably closed with a lock (32).Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2004Date of Patent: August 22, 2006Inventors: Robert L. Stanfield, Paul H. Wylie
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Patent number: 7090042Abstract: A vehicle having a load frame with wheels, a drive frame, a drive wheel, a non-driven rigid castor wheel, and a pivot link assembly. The drive wheel and non-driven rigid castor wheel are each fixed to move with the drive frame. The pivot link assembly couples the drive frame to the load frame to permit the drive frame to move vertically relative to the load frame. The pivot link assembly also has a first pivot axis about which the drive frame is rotatable relative to the load frame.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2003Date of Patent: August 15, 2006Assignee: Jervis B. Webb CompanyInventors: Jon L. Coveyou, Lewis R. Poole
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Patent number: 7086491Abstract: A personal cart comprises a mounting structure secured onto two parallel and aligned suspension members near their respective proximal longitudinal ends so as to rest thereon, and extending both upwardly and longitudinally so as to generally define an angle with said suspension members, two driving wheels, each mounted to a respective suspension member near its proximal end, two driven wheels, each rotatably mounted to a respective suspension member near its distal end, and actuating means coupled to both driving wheels for selectively causing rotation of at least one of said two driving wheels. The actuating may includes a controller and a rechargeable battery or be in the form of a hand actuating device including two endless belts mounted along angled portions of the mounting structure. The personal cart comprises few components and is relatively compact which provides a long autonomy in the case of an electrically actuated embodiment, and less effort to actuate in the case of the hand actuating embodiment.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2003Date of Patent: August 8, 2006Inventor: Denis Matte
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Patent number: 7077233Abstract: The degrees of freedom in the design of a layout structure of a power steering system for a vehicle are increased so that the auxiliary parts can be arranged around the power assisting actuator without the need for a special increase in the strength and in the stiffness of a body frame for installing the power steering system. The front wheels are steered by a power steering system supported by the body frame wherein the power steering system is provided with an actuator for assisting a steering force. One end of the actuator is installed to a first cross pipe laid over the left and right portions of the body frame. The arrangement is such so that a longitudinal direction of the actuator runs substantially in parallel with a center line of a chassis extending in a back-and-forth direction of the vehicle body.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2004Date of Patent: July 18, 2006Assignee: Honda Motor Co., LTDInventor: Yosuke Hasegawa
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Patent number: 7055642Abstract: The present invention provides for a practical and entertaining form of recreational transportation, easily transportable to weekend events. It is a compact transport kart (10), designed to carry at least one human passenger. It also transports its passenger across open road, or off-road terrain. The transport kart provides advantages and benefits over the prior art through use of a most unique type of body element (20), comprising of, or substantially resembling, a common ice-chest or common cooler. The body element can be selected of sufficient size and shape to also carry additional passengers, plus can be configured to carry ice and refreshments. The transport kart includes a power source (23) for propulsion, plus a set of wheels (21) and (22) mounted for rotation. A rotational output from the power source is drivingly connected to at least one of those wheels, therefore providing for a most unique and entertaining form of transportation.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2002Date of Patent: June 6, 2006Inventors: Gary C. Chambers, Chance A. Chambers