Interconnected Steering Means Patents (Class 280/240)
  • Patent number: 11708121
    Abstract: An adaptor bar includes a retractable tube unit. Two end parts are respectively connected to two respective ends of the tube unit. Two C-shaped hooks are respectively fixed to the two ends of the tube unit. Each hook includes a first connection portion. Two plates are respectively connected to the two end parts. Each plate includes a first section, a second section and a third section. The second section is formed inclinedly between the first and third sections. The third section of each plate is fixed to the end part corresponding thereto. The first section of each plate is removably engaged with the first connection portion of the hook by sliding the end part. The first section includes a first recess and a second recess. The second recess is located close to the second section and includes a recessed reinforcement which reinforces a portion between the first and second sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2023
    Assignee: KING RACK INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Chiu Kuei Wang
  • Patent number: 11572130
    Abstract: A bicycle pedal attachment includes an elongated pole, similar to hiking pole, which is removably attachable to the pedals of a bicycle or tricycle. The bike pedal attachment includes a bracket assembly and a pole assembly. The bracket assembly includes a support bracket attachable to a bicycle pedal. The distal end of the support bracket includes a ball joint extend therefrom. The ball joint then serves as an operative connection point for the pole assembly. The pole assembly includes an elongated telescopic pole with a locking mechanism at a distal end. The locking mechanism includes a slidable locking member that engages with the ball joint thereon. Once assembled thereon, the bike pedal attachment allows a user to use their hands eases the cycling motion performed on the bicycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2023
    Inventor: Michael V. Huth
  • Patent number: 11492070
    Abstract: A cardan joint steering titanium alloy hand and foot cooperatively operated bicycle capable of being ridden with one leg comprises a bicycle front wheel, a front wheel fork frame, a bicycle rear wheel, a frame body, a seat cushion assembly, a steering handlebar, paired chain wheels and a rear wheel fork frame. The upper end of a front fork rotating shaft and the lower end of an assisting stem are connected through a cardan joint component, symmetric ratchet wheels are provided on the two sides of the bicycle rear wheel, the paired chain wheels are fixed to the two sides of a frame middle shaft, pedal shaft pins are symmetrically provided on the outer sides of the paired chain wheels, and the paired chain wheels and the symmetric ratchet wheels are connected through symmetric chains.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2022
    Assignee: WENZHOU SAMCOOL TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD
    Inventors: Zhixiong Zhang, Yuren Chen
  • Patent number: 11427280
    Abstract: A system, generally for use with light personal vehicles such as bicycles or e-bikes, for enabling a vehicle trailer and a tow bar to be interconnected in either a braking configuration or a non-braking configuration, is described. Also described is a braking kit for interconnecting a tow bar and a vehicle trailer in a braking configuration, wherein the vehicle trailer comprises a connection interface dimensioned to be connected with an end of the tow bar in a non-braking configuration. When the tow bar and the trailer are interconnected in the braking configuration, at least a threshold amount of rearward force imparted via the tow bar during vehicle braking causes the actuation of at least one brake associated with the trailer wheels. The same tow bar can be used in either braking or non-braking configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2022
    Assignee: Pi Manufacturing Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Bell
  • Patent number: 10940063
    Abstract: A reciprocating drive motion wheelchair is provided. The wheelchair device includes a low-profile wheelchair that utilizes push bars pivotally connected to the wheelchair frame and operably connected to a crank bar, which run parallel to the ground and connects back to a crank on each wheel. An additional pair of wheels is disposed rearward of the drive wheels and prevents the wheelchair from tipping, thus allowing the user to utilize the push bars to move the wheelchair quickly and easily.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2021
    Inventor: Ben Eason
  • Patent number: 10328988
    Abstract: A scooter is provided. The scooter comprises a frame assembly including a main frame for a user, an extendable frame movably connected to the main frame and configured to be extendable away from the main frame at an interface at which the main frame and the extendable frame meet, and a wheel assembly connected to the frame assembly. The extendable frame forms a cargo space at an extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies LLC
    Inventors: Eui Shik Bang, James Yu-Hsin Kuo, Chelsia Ka Po Lau, Daniel Tang, Jack Li
  • Patent number: 10167043
    Abstract: A vehicle includes a right front wheel, a left front wheel, a brake operator, grips, and a steering force transmission which transmits a steering force to the right front wheel and the left front wheel. The steering force transmission includes a steering shaft, a handlebar, and a tie rod. Brake operators, which operate the brakes, and the grips are located on the handlebar, and a rubber damper located on the steering force transmission significantly reduces or prevents vibrations from being transmitted to the grips, wherein the vibrations are due to a difference between a frictional force generated between the right front wheel and a corresponding road surface and a frictional force generated between the left front wheel and a corresponding road surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2019
    Assignee: YAMAHA HATSUDOKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Takaaki Monna, Yosuke Hirayama
  • Patent number: 9428244
    Abstract: A manually-powered vehicle propelled by muscular force, whose user maintains a standing position, and whose drive is hand-held. The vehicle according to the invention includes two drive wheels, with independent mechanisms installed inside them, which transform the swinging motion of the levers into unidirectional gyration of the drive wheels axis thus driving the vehicle forward, at least one neutral wheel mounted in a way allowing rotation around the vertical axis, and where a low-slung platform is attached directly to the casing of the mechanisms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2016
    Assignee: TORQWAY Sp. z o.o.
    Inventor: Andrzej Sobolewski
  • Patent number: 8740235
    Abstract: A tricycle may be operable between a first mode of operation steerable by a tricycle rider, and a second mode of operation steerable by an individual pushing the tricycle. In both such first and second modes, the frame of the tricycle is configured to rotatably support the rear wheels and configured to support the head tube at a distance from the rear wheels such that a distance between the head tube and rear wheels need not necessarily be changed even when the front wheel axis location is changed from one mode to another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Smart Trike MNF PTE Ltd
    Inventor: Yoram Baron
  • Patent number: 8714576
    Abstract: The teachings provided herein are generally directed to compact vehicle drive mechanisms that can be used in the design of a foldable, carry-on vehicle. The compact drive mechanisms presented herein, for example, have contributed to the advent of the compact, carry-on bicycles set-forth in the teachings which include drive-and-steering units and drive-and-chassis units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: MDM Productivity, Inc.
    Inventor: Jon P. Moldestad
  • Patent number: 8702114
    Abstract: A vehicle with front and rear steering is disclosed. The vehicle can be a cycle. The cycle includes a front wheel steered by a front hand-steering mechanism, and two back wheels steered by a back hand-steering mechanism. The back wheels are dual inclined casters with full rotational movement. A drive train forward of the front wheel drives the front wheel, while a rider is inclined in a seat in a recumbent orientation. The front and rear steering provides unlimited maneuverability and turning capabilities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Inventors: Tyler Hadzicki, Joseph Hadzicki
  • Publication number: 20140091550
    Abstract: A tricycle may be operable between a first mode of operation steerable by a tricycle rider, and a second mode of operation steerable by an individual pushing the tricycle. In both such first and second modes, the frame of the tricycle is configured to rotatably support the rear wheels and configured to support the head tube at a distance from the rear wheels such that a distance between the head tube and rear wheels need not necessarily be changed even when the front wheel axis location is changed from one mode to another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2013
    Publication date: April 3, 2014
    Applicant: SMART TRIKE MNF PTE LTD
    Inventor: Yoram Baron
  • Patent number: 8602432
    Abstract: A tricycle may be operable between a first mode of operation steerable by a tricycle rider, and a second mode of operation steerable by an individual pushing the tricycle. In both such first and second modes, the frame of the tricycle is configured to rotatably support the rear wheels and configured to support the head tube at a distance from the rear wheels such that a distance between the head tube and rear wheels need not necessarily be changed even when the front wheel axis location is changed from one mode to another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Smart Trike MNF Pte Ltd.
    Inventor: Yoram Baron
  • Patent number: 8465037
    Abstract: A tricycle may be operable between a first mode of operation steerable by a tricycle rider, and a second mode of operation steerable by an individual pushing the tricycle. In both such first and second modes, the frame of the tricycle is configured to rotatably support the rear wheels and configured to support the head tube at a distance from the rear wheels such that a distance between the head tube and rear wheels need not necessarily be changed even when the front wheel axis location is changed from one mode to another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: Smart Trike MNF Pte Ltd.
    Inventor: Yoram Baron
  • Patent number: 8448969
    Abstract: An exercise vehicle is provided with an improved push/pull rod steering system for use in directing vehicle travel and maintaining balance without interfering significantly with vehicle power. The vehicle includes a frame with an attached drive system that includes a drive wheel. The drive system includes arm levers operatively connected to the drive wheel so that counter-reciprocal movement of the arm levers produces rotation of the drive wheel. The steering system includes a guidance wheel rotatively coupled with the frame, a steering crank which is operatively coupled with the guidance wheel, hand levers pivotally attached to the arm levers and push/pull rod assemblies connecting the hand levers to the steering crank. When one hand lever pivots, the steering crank rotates, causing the guidance wheel to turn while simultaneously causing the other hand lever to pivot the opposite direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Inventor: Steven Coe Heath
  • Publication number: 20130049321
    Abstract: A vehicle with front and rear steering is disclosed. The vehicle can be a cycle. The cycle includes a front wheel steered by a front hand-steering mechanism, and two back wheels steered by a back hand-steering mechanism. The back wheels are dual inclined casters with full rotational movement. A drive train forward of the front wheel drives the front wheel, while a rider is inclined in a seat in a recumbent orientation. The front and rear steering provides unlimited maneuverability and turning capabilities.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2012
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Inventors: Tyler Hadzicki, Joseph Hadzicki
  • Publication number: 20120181770
    Abstract: The invention relates to a two-wheeled cycle having an arm crank drive and a leg crank drive. The cycle has steering by means of shaft legs, wherein the cycle is steered by tilting, and the cycle has at least one steering support element which dampens, limits, or fixes the steering motion or exerts a restoring force in the straight-ahead position of the steering wheel. In addition, the geometry of the steering axis and of the fork offset are optimized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2010
    Publication date: July 19, 2012
    Inventor: Martin Kraiss
  • Patent number: 8118320
    Abstract: A steering mechanism for a push-and-pull vehicle provides a handlebar to be used to steer a vehicle left and right while simultaneously being used to drive the vehicle forward by pushing and pulling action. The handlebar is at the top of a swing pole, the swing pole being held by a turning sleeve on a swing arm pivoted on the vehicle frame. The swing pole connects the handlebar to a frame supported u-joint which is connected to a vehicle steering mechanism. The turning sleeve connects the handlebar and swing pole to the swing arm, the output of the swing arm driving the vehicle forward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Inventor: Rocky Jenlon Lee
  • Publication number: 20120001400
    Abstract: A vehicle with front and rear steering is disclosed. The vehicle can be a cycle. The cycle includes a front wheel steered by a front hand-steering mechanism, and two back wheels steered by a back hand-steering mechanism. The back wheels are dual inclined casters with full rotational movement. A drive train forward of the front wheel drives the front wheel, while a rider is inclined in a seat in a recumbent orientation. The front and rear steering provides unlimited maneuverability and turning capabilities.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2011
    Publication date: January 5, 2012
    Inventors: TYLER HADZICKI, Joseph Hadzicki
  • Publication number: 20110278814
    Abstract: A personal transportation device comprises a riding platform supported by one or more wheels, a steering mechanism at least partially embedded in the riding platform and a drive wheel assembly. A first wheel may be steerable while a second wheel is a slave wheel. The steering mechanism may be foot-operated. The drive wheel may be hand-propelled and non-steerable. The drive wheel is operatively connected to a drive sprocket and chain and is coupled to the riding platform by a platform frame. The personal transportation device may comprise one or more track arm assemblies coupled to the drive wheel assembly such that movement of the track arm assemblies operates the drive wheel assembly and rotates a drive wheel to propel the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2010
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Inventor: EDWARD WALTER
  • Patent number: 7992889
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a vehicle that is converted from a stroller for carrying a passenger and cycle operated by a rider to a combined unit. More specifically, the invention relates to a stroller and a bicycle combined, physically and operationally, such that the operator of the cycle portion of the stroller-cycle can control operation of the stroller portion while the stroller-cycle is in motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Assignee: Soma Cycle, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Ehrenreich, Joel Hoag, Brian Rhee
  • Patent number: 7914030
    Abstract: A braking and steering assembly in a vehicle having a pushing section and a riding section. The assembly includes an upper connection post containing braking and steering components for the riding section. The upper connection post has an upper end and a lower threaded end. The assembly further includes a lower connection post containing braking and steering components for the pushing section. The lower connection post has an aperture for threadedly receiving the lower threaded end of the upper connection post. The assembly also includes a rotatable front knob fixed to the upper end of the upper connection post. Rotatably tightening the front knob connects the lower end of the upper connection post with the upper end of the lower connection post. Braking and steering in the riding section controls braking and steering in the pushing section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Soma Cycle, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Ehrenreich, Joel Hoag, Brian Rhee
  • Publication number: 20100300789
    Abstract: Front wheel drive vehicles, bicycles or motorized scooters, include an enclosed drive belt connected to provide power to the front wheel through a chain, where the vehicle is steered by way of a front fork extending outside and over the head tube of the frame, and methods of use thereof. Movable linkages, which may be belts, chains, or other linkages, provide power generated using pedals or a motor to the front wheel. The belts are preferably enclosed within the frame or the front fork to prevent interference or damage. A chain is preferably used to drive the front wheel. Having the front fork outside the head tube allows for the head tube to route the linkage from the frame to the front fork without interference by the steering connection to the front wheel, allowing for a full range of motion of the front wheel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2008
    Publication date: December 2, 2010
    Inventor: Rodolfo (Rudy) Reyes
  • Publication number: 20100283216
    Abstract: A bicycle with two front wheels includes: a main frame provided at its front end with a vertically oriented head tube; a pair of front wheels non-rotatably provided on both ends of a front wheel shaft held below the head tube; a rear wheel that is rotatably supported by a rear end of the main frame; driving means for driving the front wheels; and steering means for steering the front wheels. The steering means includes a steering handle, and a steering shaft extending from the steering handle downward and including a vertical steering shaft portion that is rotatably supported by the head tube and that has a lower end for turning the front wheel shaft. The driving means includes a horizontal driving shaft pivotally supported by the main frame, and a vertical driving body that can be rotated by the horizontal driving shaft and that is coaxial with the head tube, and the vertical driving body rotates the front wheel shaft through driving-interconnection means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2007
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Inventor: Kinya Kanou
  • Patent number: 7798510
    Abstract: A vehicle including: a front wheel; two rear wheels; a seat configured to allow a rider to lean forward when the vehicle travels; and a frame that includes a front frame section and a rear frame section, the front frame section extending from the seat to at least an axis of rotation of the front wheel and connecting the seat to the front wheel, the rear frame section extending from the first frame section rearward and connecting the rear wheels to the first frame section, the frame sections being pivotably connected at a pivot point between the main wheel and the seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Inventors: Scott Patrick Comstock, Kurt Joseph Comstock
  • Patent number: 7547029
    Abstract: A child transport vehicle comprising: a vehicle frame; displacement means depending from the frame; a vehicle attachment connector mounted on the vehicle frame and including a vehicle attachment connection site, the connector and the connection site may be configured to facilitate convertibility and usefulness of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2009
    Assignee: 634182 Alberta Ltd.
    Inventors: Daniel William Britton, Graham Alexander Lemee, Barry Dean Wylant, Antony William Stephen Gellion
  • Patent number: 7237786
    Abstract: A rowing bicycle comprised of a frame (1), a steering unit (55), a powering unit (56) having a dual motion gear (23), wheels (2) and (3) and a seat (5). The frame (1) is designed so as to have the user sit in a position where his or her legs are almost horizontally straight. The steering unit (55) pivots left and right about a center bar (19) located in between the frame (1) to allow a user to turn the bicycle while the dual motion gear (23) allows the user to power the bicycle both when pushing the steering unit (55) forward and when pulling the steering unit (55) back.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignees: Iaz's Custom Welding, Inc.
    Inventor: Douglas R. Montez
  • Patent number: 7168723
    Abstract: Front wheel drive mechanism for toy vehicles in which supports are attached to the vehicle, with a drive bar being positioned between them, at each end of which is mounted a respective sub-assembly including a clasp and a cross link, of which two legs are fitted into respective openings in the clasp mounted on the end of the bar and whose other two ends are fitted into respective openings in another respective clasp attached to each wheel of the vehicle. The system is completed by a respective L-shaped rotational element connected to the ends of the clasp of the wheel, and in which are fitted the ends of a steering bar that has a U-shaped part in the center into which the steering axle is fitted, with one end bent into an L and the other end fastened to the steering wheel of the vehicle, with the entire assembly being attached to the vehicle by the supports and with the wheels and hub caps being attached at the end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Assignee: Magic Toys Do Brasil Ind. E Com. Ltda.
    Inventor: Joaquim Matias de Oliveira
  • Patent number: 7000934
    Abstract: The disclosure herein provides a two-wheel bicycle system wherein a pair of long levers are arranged on the cross-beam of the frame, to provide the fulcrum for the motion of the levers. The tops of the levers comprise handles perpendicular to such levers, with linkages to a circular and rotatable crank, which rotates in a plane parallel to the ground about a column commonly found in the steering mechanism for such a bicycle. The bottom ends of the levers connect to linking members to connect such levers to the pedals commonly found in such a bicycle. Such linking members are provided so that they are disconnected and then rotatable to be mounted on the diagonal frame piece of the bicycle, when the bicycle is used with hand-operated steering and foot-operated power. Before disconnection, only upper body energy is used to control both steering and powering the bicycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Inventor: William Capek
  • Patent number: 6712167
    Abstract: An electrical twist vehicle includes a transmission system which enables a rider to selectively switch between electrically operated mode and manually operated mode for two rear wheels of the electrical twist vehicle by shifting a control member into a predefined position. In electrically operated mode, the two rear wheels of the electrical twist vehicle are driven by an electrical driving device whereas in manually operated mode, the two rear wheels of the electrical twist vehicle are set to free rotating. The transmission system includes a driving wheel connected to an electrical driving device, a driven wheel connected to a rear wheels axle, a transmission belt connecting the driving and driven wheel, and a biasing wheel wherein in electrically operated mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Inventor: Hong-Jiun Gu
  • Patent number: 6676147
    Abstract: In an airbag device (10) wherein within a casing (12) opening upwardly an inflator (16) and an airbag (14) are housed at its bottom part and the opening side, respectively, a cylindrical diffuser (18) surrounding the outer circumference of the inflator (16) is provided, which has a partition wall (40) projecting toward the opening side of the casing and partitioning an airbag-housing space into a forward side and a rearward side relative to the vehicle, in which to house the airbag (14) dividedly, and a lip portion (32) of the airbag (14) is superposed downwards of the diffuser (18) thereby to lock the bottom part of the diffuser (18) to the bottom surface of the casing (12). Thus, it is easy, albeit compart, to control the deployment behavior of the airbag and excellent in workability of assembling the airbag in the casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Toru Ozaki, Kenji Shibayama, Kazuaki Bito, Takeshi Yamaji, Hidehito Sogi, Takashi Sasaki, Yoshinori Mihara
  • Patent number: 6634662
    Abstract: A driving shaft device of a toy twist car is disclosed. The toy twist car has a car body. A rear side of the car body has an idle wheel and a front end thereof is installed with a vertical driving shaft. A handle is installed and perpendicular to the driving shaft. A lower end of the driving shaft is vertically installed with a driving seat which is extended horizontally. A rear end of the driving seat is installed with two driving wheels at a right and left sides of the driving seat. The driving shaft is a rod body, an axial rod encloses the rod body. A lower and an upper ends of the rod body have outer threads. Surfaces of the rod body and axial rod are formed with buckling structures and a lower end of the axial rod is formed with a connecting shaft and a shoulder portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Inventor: Hong-Jiun Gu
  • Patent number: 6616163
    Abstract: A combined skateboard scooter/exerciser comprises a handlebar, a board, a steering device, a transmission device, and a wheel device. The steering rod is rotatably supported by the board and thus rotatable relative to the board. In addition, the steering rod is movable back and forth relative to the board. The handlebar is mounted to an upper end of the steering rod to move therewith. The steering device is mounted to a lower end of the steering rod to move therewith. The wheel device is mounted to the steering device. The transmission device is mounted between the lower end of the steering rod and the wheel device such that back and forth movement of the steering rod urges the wheel device to move forward via transmission by the transmission device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Inventor: Jung-Tien Lee
  • Patent number: 6581949
    Abstract: A wheeled vehicle that is convertible between a bicycle mode and a scooter mode. The cycle scooter includes a front wheel drive system with an operator seat that is movable between a lowered position that provides for comfortable operation of the vehicle in the bicycle mode, and a raised position for comfortable operation in the scooter mode. The frame includes rear and front portions that are pivotally attached and movable between a folded storage position and an extended operating position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Inventor: Zenon Lopez
  • Patent number: 6499755
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an operation arrangement, particularly to an operation arrangement for a twist vehicle having a sliding slot located on an end portion of an driving frame, a pivot shaft located opposite to the sliding slot, a sliding shaft with one end sliding freely along the sliding slot and another end being connected to a rocking arm, a steering shaft being connected directly and perpendicularly to the rocking arm and operated by a steering wheel. As a result, the steering wheel for the twist vehicle can be extended backwardly towards the rear portion of the operating wheels, close to the user's operation position. This arrangement can improve ease of operation by moving the steering wheel towards the user and also maintain better stability by extending the length of the wheelbase and effectively causing the center of gravity to be shifted toward the idle wheel axle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2002
    Assignees: Jar Chen Weng
    Inventor: Hong-Jiun Gu
  • Patent number: 6378882
    Abstract: An exercise cycle comprising a frame, a hinge, and a drive mechanism. The frame comprises a forward frame member and a rearward frame member. The hinge operatively connects the forward frame member to the rearward frame member such that the forward and rearward frame members are pivotally moveable relative to each other about a hinge axis between operable and stowable positions. The drive mechanism includes an endless loop assembly. The exercise cycle is configured such that the frame may be folded without removal of the endless loop assembly. The cycle further includes left and right linearly reciprocating assemblies. The left reciprocating assembly is configured for being moved back and forth with foot pressure and hand pressure from a user's left hand and left foot. The right reciprocating assembly is configured for being moved back and forth with foot pressure and hand pressure from a user's right hand and right foot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Inventor: John Devine
  • Patent number: 6375208
    Abstract: A combined skateboard scooter/exerciser comprises a handlebar, a front body, a transmission device, a wheel device, and a board. A rear end of the front body is pivoted to the board and includes a slot through which a steering rod extends. The steering rod is attached to the handlebar to move therewith and movable along the slot. The transmission device is engaged with the steering rod and the wheel device such that back and forth movement of the steering rod urges the wheel device to move forward via transmission by the transmission device. The wheel device includes wheels attached to front and rear ends of the board. The user may stand on the board and operate the handlebar and the steering rod to move back and forth to thereby move the combined skateboard scooter/exerciser forward while achieving a rowing-like exercise effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Inventor: Jung Tien Lee
  • Patent number: 6328325
    Abstract: A wheeled vehicle having plural wheels referenced to a frame. The vehicle includes plural seats. Human power applied through handles and the seats converts and balances a first oscillatory motion along a first axis into rotational motion, while simultaneously converting oscillatory motion along a second axis into motion about an axis connected to a reference frame. The first oscillatory motion is output for useful work. The second oscillatory motion is used for vehicle control. The vehicle may be used in a stationary state as both a teamwork and physical-conditioning device and to generate power for useful work while the vehicle is stationary. Alternately, the power generated by the occupants may couple through a transmission to rotational motion to drive wheels, and thus to propel the vehicle. Precise steering control is provided for when the vehicle is being propelled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2001
    Inventor: Charles Greenwood
  • Patent number: 6311998
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a geared scooter comprising a deck assembly, a handlebar, a front wheel assembly and a rear wheel assembly. The front wheel assembly and the rear wheel assembly are arranged at front and rear ends of the deck assembly. The handlebar is pivotably disposed at the front end of the deck assembly and pivotably connected to one end of the coupling mechanism while the other end of the coupling mechanism is mounted on the drive mechanism of the rear wheel assembly. The drive mechanism is pivotably mounted on the rear wheel assembly in one body. In swinging the handlebar, the rear wheel assembly is driven with the drive mechanism by the coupling mechanism to create a forward power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Inventors: Leao Wang, Peter Wu
  • Patent number: 6224078
    Abstract: An occupant-propelled vehicle comprising a vehicle frame, a vehicle propulsion system with a movable force receiver, and a vehicle steering arrangement in one embodiment comprising a tilt-grip steering post, a steering drum, a steered wheel, a steered drum, and a flexible, sheathed cable. An inner member of the cable overlies the steered drum and the steering drum whereby a pivoting of the tilt-grip steering post induces a steering of the steered wheel. The steering post may have an axis of rotation perpendicular to its longitudinal axis and tangent to an arc of rotation of the moveable force receiver. The diameters of the steered and steering drums may be varied, and the steered drum may be disengagably indexed to the steered wheel. The steered wheel may be coupled to a second wheel to steer the second wheel in response to a steering of the steered wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Steven Tidcomb
  • Patent number: 6206394
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus to exercise the upper and lower body that is powered by a simulated rowing motion is described. The exercise apparatus includes a frame, front and rear wheels, a slide rail, a lever arm, a steering mechanism and a drive mechanism that translates the user's energy to propel the exercise apparatus. The rotation point of the lever arm, the fulcrum of the lever arm, the maximum distance the lever arm travels fore and aft, and the length of the lower portion of the lever arm, among others is adjustable to maximize efficiency or effectiveness of exercising the user's upper and lower body. Stabilizing members are attachable to the rear wheel axle, wherein the stabilizing members are adjustable to either elevate the rear wheel above the riding surface or provide stabilization to the extent required by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: O.S. Designs, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott B. Olson, David P. Sauter
  • Patent number: 6036215
    Abstract: An improved apparatus for linking two or more bicycles together in tandem by means of a light-weight tubular member, wherein said member is attached a leading bicycle in a location near or on the seat and to the head tube of the trailing bicycle by a quick-release fastener. A separation means insures that the apparatus will automatically separate from the trailing bicycle in the event of excessive force being applied. An alignment means is provided to cause the trailing bicycle to track in substantial alignment with the leading bicycle. Cushioning material is provided on each coupling means to absorb shock and to minimize abrasive wear and to prevent marring of the respective bicycles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Inventor: Ronald Frank Bruner
  • Patent number: 6036210
    Abstract: A handcycle supports a rider in a forward leaning ("modified prone") position, with the feet of the rider in straps above the rear axle, and the arms hanging generally downwardly toward a pedal assembly. The pedal assembly is generally at about the chest portion of the rider, which increases the leverage that can be applied to rotate the hand pedals, thereby increasing the speed of the bicycle. The central bar of the cycle frame extends upwardly and forwardly to support a rider at an angle of between about 15 and 45 degrees, and more preferably at an angle of about 30 degrees from the rear axle. Appropriate padding and supports can be provided along the mid-portion of the bar to support the chest of the rider at the proper angle. A damper assembly connected between the front fork and the frame of the cycle provides variation in dampening for front wheel stability in changing road conditions. The gear shift and brakes are also easily accessible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Inventor: David V. Lee
  • Patent number: 5975549
    Abstract: A system for simultaneously mounting a plurality of accessories such as panniers, baskets, trailer hitch and trailer, luggage carrier, wheel fender, etc. to a bicycle frame includes an upper mounting block rigidly attachable to the frame below the bicycle seat, and two lower stirrup members rigidly attachable to the frame adjacent the wheel axle on either side of the wheel. The upper mounting block has a socket for holding a tow bar and slots for mounting a luggage carrier, both of which have legs which are lockably inserted into receiving slots in the stirrup members. A key lock locks the mounting block to the bicycle frame and the accessories to the mounting block. Accessories may be locked to the carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Inventor: Lynn Marie Ockenden
  • Patent number: 5876052
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus that is powered by a simulated rowing motion is described. The exercise apparatus includes a frame, slide rail, lever arm, steering mechanism and drive mechanism which together require the use of both the rider's upper and lower body muscles. A portion of the steering cables and drive mechanism are contained within a hollow portion of the lever arm. This containment provides added safety to the rider and reduces the likelihood of the cables or chain catching in either the clothing of the rider or objects the rider passes while riding the exercise apparatus. A stand is demountably engaged to the rear axle, providing the option of using the exercise apparatus as a stationary exercise machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1999
    Assignee: O.S. Designs, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott B. Olson, David Fowlkes, Jr., David P. Sauter
  • Patent number: 5492349
    Abstract: An improved self-propelled wagon of the type having a body including front and rear ends, a front axle pivotally mounted to the front end, a rear axle mounted to the rear end, and a propelling means for transmitting the human force of the user to the rear axle. The improvement comprises a sliding gear assembly that includes a hollow tube having proximal and distal ends, a small spur sprocket freely rotably mounted at the proximal end of the hollow tube and a large spur sprocket means freely rotably mounted at said distal end of the hollow tube. The rotation of the sprockets driving corresponding chains trained thereon and causing the rotation of the rear axle. The sliding gear assembly is adapted such that a user may adjust the sliding gear assembly to selectively intermesh with, and turn, the small spur sprocket or the large spur sprocket. The improvement also comprises a steering assembly having a tube, horizontal rod, vertical rod, a fork and rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 20, 1996
    Inventor: Marcio C. Ferez
  • Patent number: 5490686
    Abstract: A vehicle for converting oscillating human motion into linear vehicular translation. The inventive device includes a frame having first and second pairs of driving wheels rotatably mounted thereto. A pair of center wheels projects from the frame between the pairs of driving wheels to support the frame in conjunction with only one of the pairs of driving wheels. A propulsion and steering assembly mounted to the frame converts a manual pivoting movement of a lever arm about a horizontal axis into rotational torque applied to the driving wheels and further converts a manual pivoting of the lever arm about a vertical axis into steering of the center wheels to control the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 13, 1996
    Inventor: Gern J. Clouse
  • Patent number: 5397145
    Abstract: A four wheel velocipede includes a single front to rear frame member connected to front and rear axle assemblies. The steering mechanism is coupled to the front axle assembly by a pipe braced to the frame member. In one embodiment, the frame member is bent over to one side and contains a drive linkage driven by a pedal operated crank assembly connected to a central cantilevered pipe for driving a rear wheel. In a second embodiment, a front wheel drive includes universal joints connecting the front axles to a pedal driven crank for permitting the front wheels to be driven while simultaneously steered. A horizontally extending cross member crank pivots about a vertical axis on the frame member for driving the pedal driven crank via a pair of reach arms connected to the cross member crank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 14, 1995
    Inventor: Carlos Kobluk
  • Patent number: 5297810
    Abstract: A wheelchair having two driving wheels (4, 19) with two corresponding hand levers (7, 20), and two transmission mechanisms (16) which convert the swinging motion of their levers (7, 20) into rotary movement of the driving wheels (4, 19). Each transmission mechanism (16) has a guide (34) accommodating, a rod (36) with a rack (38), a gear (40) interacting with the rack (38) and with the overrunning clutch (7) of its driving wheel (4), and a coupling (42). The driven wheel (3) is self-aligned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 29, 1994
    Assignee: Mezhdunarodny Fond Miloserdia I Zdorovya
    Inventor: Sergei N. Lukyanov
  • Patent number: 5240267
    Abstract: A tricycle (20) disclosed includes a front section (22) and rear section (24). The front section (22) is articulated with respect to the rear section (24) so that the front section (22) can be leaned with respect to the rear section (24) from a normal orientation to lean orientation. A caliper assembly (70) interconnects the front and rear sections (22,24) at the point of articulation and includes arms (72,74) which spread when the front section (22) is leaned with respect to the rear section (24). A biasing member (76) connected to the spreadable arms (72,74) biases the arms together to obviate lean orientation. The front section (22) includes a steerable drive wheel (42) including a hub (44), a central sprocket (34) spaced from the hub (44) and an endless belt (48) interconnecting the hub (44) with the sprocket (48) to provide front wheel drive unaffected by drive apparatus. Rear wheels (86,88) are adjustably spaceable by the movement of frame arms (82,84).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1991
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1993
    Inventor: Peter Owsen