Belt Or Chain Patents (Class 280/261)
  • Publication number: 20140300078
    Abstract: A device for the propulsion and eccentric braking of a vehicle having a pedal drive, which includes a first shaft, a drive mechanism including one or a plurality of chain wheels, belt pulleys or elements of a Cardan drive, a second hollow shaft arranged concentrically about the first shaft mounted into a rear wheel, a freewheel clutch mounted between the first shaft and the drive mechanism, and an optionally engageable reverse gear mechanism mounted between the first and the second shaft. The first and the second shafts are connected to each other in a torsionally rigid manner when the reverse gear mechanism is in the engaged and disengaged state. The freewheel clutch prevents a rotation of the drive mechanism relative to the first shaft in a clockwise direction and is in a freewheeling state when the drive mechanism rotates in a counter-clockwise direction relative to the first shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2011
    Publication date: October 9, 2014
    Applicant: SYNERGY BIOSURGICAL AG
    Inventors: Kurt Ruffieux, Stefan Stahl, Andreas Kaiser
  • Patent number: 8840127
    Abstract: A pedal drive system for a bicycle includes a front spiral cone pulley and a rear pulley. The front spiral cone pulley is attached to a crank arm, and the rear pulley is attached to a rear wheel on a bicycle in some embodiments. A power cable, or tension linkage, extends between the front spiral cone pulley and the rear pulley. The front spiral cone pulley is angularly moveable relative to the first crank arm such that the radial position of the point of engagement between the power cable and the front spiral cone pulley may be selectively manipulated for controlling the gear ratio between the front spiral cone pulley and the rear pulley. In some embodiments, the rear pulley is also a spiral cone pulley.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Inventor: Robert Musgrove
  • Publication number: 20140265219
    Abstract: The present invention is a derailleur comprising: a base plate disposed between the perimeter of a drive sprocket nest and a pedal sprocket; a chain guide attached to said base plate for moving a chain laterally causing said chain to move form sprocket to sprocket in a sprocket nest; a chain guide surface included in said chain guide for causing said chain to contact over ½ the perimeter of said pedal sprocket decreasing the likelihood of the chain slipping off said sprocket; and, a tension member attached to said base plate for removing slack in a chain as the chain moves from a larger sprocket to a smaller sprocket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Zike, LLC
    Inventors: Nathan A. Scolari, George Reiter
  • Publication number: 20140265218
    Abstract: This invention is a bicycle for a standing rider including a frame, a drive support attached to a front support member having a front end and a rear end; a front crank arm rotationally attached to the front end of the drive support and attached to a front sprocket; a rear crank arm rotationally attached to the rear end of the drive support and attached to a rear sprocket; a pedal attached to the front crank arm and the rear crank arm so that when the crank arms rotate, the pedal remains parallel to the ground; a spacing member attached to the drive support and the mail support member so that the drive support is disposed parallel to the ground.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: ZIKE, LLC
    Inventor: Nathan A. Scolari
  • Publication number: 20140265213
    Abstract: The present invention is provided with a manual input device capable of bidirectional inputting, the output end thereof is served to output to the input end of a bidirectional input unidirectional output transmission device, the output end of the bidirectional input unidirectional output transmission device performs output in a constant rotating direction, so a loading wheel set can be driven through an engaging or releasing operational clutch device (70), and when the loading wheel set performs reverse driving in the opposite rotating direction for the purpose of reverse linking, the load is released by the engaging or releasing operational clutch device (70), thereby preventing the transmission wheel system of the bidirectional input unidirectional output driven vehicle having clutch device at load end from being locked.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventor: Tai-Her Yang
  • Publication number: 20140265220
    Abstract: The present invention is a low profile derailleur for a chain driven personal vehicle with an attachment plate, a frame, a positioning angle included in said attachment plate, a transition rail attached to said attachment plate, a chain guide slidably attached to said transition rail, allowing said chain guide to move laterally in relation to an axis of a wheel carried by said frame causing a chain connected to a drive sprocket nest to move from sprocket to sprocket within said sprocket nest, a spring biasing said chain guide in one direction and a cable for moving said chain guide in an opposite direction causing the chain to move from sprocket to sprocket, an inner surface included in said chain guide for contacting said chain, when said chain guide moves said chain from a larger sprocket in the sprocket nest to a smaller sprocket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Zike, LLC
    Inventors: Nathan A. Scolari, George Reiter
  • Publication number: 20140225346
    Abstract: The invention relates to a compact, foldable bike with small wheels and a bicycle drive for driving the rear wheel, comprising a traction mechanism or a spur-gear transmission, driven by a crank, the distance of the bottom-bracket axle to the rear-wheel axle being larger than half the outer diameter of the rear wheel. The bicycle exhibits a front frame part and a rear frame part that are rotatably connected to each other by a folding hinge that is aligned at right angles to the ground plane, whereby the front frame part, the rear frame part, and a front-wheel fork, in the folded state, seen laterally, form the sides of a triangle having the following characteristic combination of features: The bicycle is ridden while standing up, the driving wheel and the output wheel of the bicycle drive are arranged on the same side of the bicycle frame and the steering tube exhibits a lower and an upper steering tube, that in the folded state of the bicycle are folded-in laterally beside the front wheel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2012
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Inventor: Karsten Bettin
  • Publication number: 20140217695
    Abstract: This invention provides a novel solution for an optimally powered crank for a human-powered vehicle, such as a bicycle. This invention includes a novel system and method to optimize the length of each crank arm throughout the revolution of the crank assembly. First, a crank arm assembly is attached to the bicycle's existing spindle assembly. The crank arm assembly includes a rail section that is fixed at one end to the mounting section of the crank arm assembly. Next, the opposite end of the rail section is attached to the sliding section of the crank arm assembly. The sliding section of the crank arm assembly also includes a feature that allows the sliding section to collapse and expand along the rail section. The crank arm assembly also includes at least two track rollers mounted to the side of each sliding section designed to reduce friction and counter inertial forces associated with the crank arm assembly sliding along the tracks. Next, the assembly includes two tracks mounted on each side of the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2013
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Inventor: Sergio Landau
  • Patent number: 8794651
    Abstract: A bicycle comprising a frame and at least one wheel attached to the frame, the frame further comprising a receiver, a first planetary gear transmission disposed in the receiver, the wheel having a hub, a second planetary gear transmission disposed in the hub, and an endless member for transmitting a torque trained between the first planetary gear transmission and the second planetary gear transmission.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: The Gates Corporation
    Inventors: Alexander Serkh, Dean Schneider
  • Publication number: 20140210179
    Abstract: A propulsion system for human powered vehicles includes an outer lever having an input end and an output end. An orbiting sprocket is coupled to the output end of the outer lever. A fixed sprocket is also provided, with the orbiting sprocket orbiting around the fixed sprocket. A closed tension-bearing member engages an outer circumference of both the orbiting sprocket and the fixed sprocket. A driveshaft is co-axial with the fixed sprocket, the driveshaft being free to rotate with respect to the fixed sprocket and the crank lever being fixedly connected to the driveshaft and rotationally connected to the orbiting sprocket. A chassis is propelled by the driveshaft. Wherein application of a force on the input end of the outer lever causes the orbiting sprocket to orbit around the fixed sprocket and thereby rotate the crank lever to impart rotation to the driveshaft and propel the chassis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2014
    Publication date: July 31, 2014
    Inventor: Paul Sprague
  • Publication number: 20140203536
    Abstract: In at least some embodiments, a riding walker assembly includes a support assembly and a drive assembly. The support assembly may include a frame work supporting a seat assembly, and a plurality of wheels operatively coupled to the frame work and configured to rollably engage a floor surface. The drive assembly may include a drive wheel configured to engage the floor surface, and a pedal assembly operatively coupled to the drive wheel such that rotation of the pedal assembly rotates the drive wheel. The riding walker assembly may further include a coupling assembly operatively coupling the drive assembly to the support assembly, the coupling assembly being configured to selectively engage and disengage the drive wheel from the floor surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2013
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Inventor: Philip C. Whitener
  • Patent number: 8770608
    Abstract: A bicycle including a bicycle frame that has a main frame and a rear frame coupled to the main frame for pivotal movement about a pivot axis, and a derailleur mount that is coupled to the bicycle frame. The derailleur mount has a first mounting portion that is concentric with the pivot axis and defining a plane, a second mounting portion that is secured to the rear frame at a location spaced laterally from the plane, and a support portion. A derailleur is attached to the support portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Specialized Bicycle Components, Inc.
    Inventor: Jason L. Chamberlain
  • Patent number: 8752852
    Abstract: A multi-rider or occupant human powered vehicle permits at least one rider or occupant to contribute to powering the vehicle while being seated in a direction opposite to the direction of travel of the vehicle. By way of example, tandem bicycles are provided accommodating rearward-facing aft cyclists or rearward-facing fore cyclists. Other vehicles, such as tricycles, four-wheeled carts, and human powered watercraft, such as paddle boats, are also contemplated by the present invention. In one embodiment, a tandem bicycle with a rearward-facing occupant contributing to powering the vehicle via a single drive chain, belt, or shaft is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Inventor: Martin A. Dolan
  • Patent number: 8708360
    Abstract: Traction planets and traction rings can be operationally coupled to a planetary gearset to provide a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The CVT can be used in a bicycle. In one embodiment, the CVT is mounted on the frame of the bicycle at a location forward of the rear wheel hub of the bicycle. In one embodiment, the CVT is mounted on and supported by members of the bicycle frame such that the CVT is coaxial with the crankshaft of the bicycle. The crankshaft is configured to drive elements of the planetary gearset, which are configured to operationally drive the traction rings and the traction planets. Inventive component and subassemblies for such a CVT are disclosed. A shifting mechanism includes a plurality of pivot arms arranged to pivot about the centers of the traction planets as a shift pin hub moves axially.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Fallbrook Intellectual Property Company LLC
    Inventors: Donald C Miller, Robert A Smithson, Brad P Pohl, Charles B Lohr, Jon M Nichols
  • Patent number: 8706376
    Abstract: To provide an ABS control system and software with an automatic parameter calibration function. An ABS control system according to the present invention includes an electronic control unit (ECU), a wheel speed sensor, and a brake pressure sensor. The wheel speed sensor and the brake pressure sensor measure wheel speed and brake pressure during ABS braking, and the ABS control system automatically calibrates an internal parameter used in ABS control in response to the wheel speed and brake pressure measurement results.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Bosch Corporation
    Inventors: Shunsaku Ono, Shuichi Miyagawa
  • Patent number: 8602434
    Abstract: A double chainring drivetrain system for bicycles that allows riders to apply force directly to a pair of chainrings, one on either side of the bottom bracket. The double chainring drivetrain system has two crank arms, each connected to a peripheral rim portion of the chainrings, and two drive chains. A hub on the rear wheel has two sprockets such that the two drive chains extend between the chainrings and the rear sprockets for transfer of applied rotational forces from the pedals on either side of the bicycle through the two chainrings to the rear sprockets on hub of the rear wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Inventor: Julian E. Woods
  • Publication number: 20130299258
    Abstract: A method of using a folding vehicle having a chassis that functions as a protective, carry-on casing is provided. The vehicle has a chassis with a center member, a rotatably-lockable front strut, a rotatably-lockable rear strut, and two pivot points for converting the vehicle from an operational state to a collapsed state; and, a drive member with a crankshaft. The crankshaft and the rotatably-lockable front strut pivot share a central axis of rotation; and, the releasably-lockable front strut and the releasably-lockable rear strut are configured to fold into a complementary relationship in the interior of the channel in the collapsed state. The channel functions as a protective, carry-on case for the folding vehicle in the collapsed state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2013
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Inventor: JON P. MOLDESTAD
  • Publication number: 20130299251
    Abstract: A solar-powered vehicle with regenerative and mechanical braking includes a chassis or frame, a seat mounted to the frame, a rear axle rotatably supported on the frame, spaced apart left and right rear wheels mounted on the rear axle, and at least one front wheel mounted on the frame. The vehicle includes a selectively engageable regenerative braking system and a selectively engageable mechanical braking system. A lever for engaging the braking systems has three positions, wherein at a first position a reed switch on the lever engages a magnetic source, disabling the regenerative braking system. At a second position, the reed switch disengages the magnetic source, enabling the regenerative braking system. At a third position of the lever, the mechanical braking system is engaged.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2012
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Inventors: Richard Wilson, Mary Jane Wilson, Jesse Frederick
  • Patent number: 8540264
    Abstract: A four wheel stepper bike having a body with an internal chamber containing a drive mechanism for transmitting power to a wheel, a steering linkage, and a brake. Foot pedal units on opposite side of the body are moved by an operator's feet to apply force to the drive mechanism. A steering column with handles hinged to the body and connected to the steering linkage is selectively movable to steer the bike and move between upright and folded positions. Bumpers attached to an end of the body support the bike in an upright position on a support surface when the steering column is in the folded position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Inventor: Phillip E. Schlangen
  • Patent number: 8534691
    Abstract: Derailleur mounts for use in bicycles. The derailleur mount comprises an elastic element having a functional state and a collapsed state. The elastic element is configured for reducing at least some of an impact force of at least 300 Newton (N) applied on the bicycle by switching from the functional state to the collapsed state. The elastic element is configured for reverting from the collapsed state to the functional state after the impact force is removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Inventor: Alon Schaffer
  • Publication number: 20130228995
    Abstract: A planetary gear mechanism for a bicycle, and more particularly to a planetary gear mechanism comprising a first planetary mechanism connected coaxially in series to a second planetary mechanism, which second planetary mechanism is connected coaxially in series to a third planetary mechanism, the second planetary mechanism output is a step up in speed from the first planetary mechanism output, the third planetary mechanism output is a step up in speed from the second planetary mechanism output.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2013
    Publication date: September 5, 2013
    Inventors: Alexander Serkh, Dean Schneider
  • Publication number: 20130207367
    Abstract: A multi-rider or occupant human powered vehicle permits at least one rider or occupant to contribute to powering the vehicle while being seated in a direction opposite to the direction of travel of the vehicle. By way of example, tandem bicycles are provided accommodating rearward-facing aft cyclists or rearward-facing fore cyclists. Other vehicles, such as tricycles, four-wheeled carts, and human powered watercraft, such as paddle boats, are also contemplated by the present invention. In one embodiment, a tandem bicycle with a rearward-facing occupant contributing to powering the vehicle via a single drive chain, belt, or shaft is disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2013
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Inventor: Martin A. Dolan
  • Publication number: 20130193668
    Abstract: A tandem tricycle having a front frame portion and a detachable rear frame portion, which is configured to accommodate two riders. A drivetrain allows the riders to independently power the tricycle. A full suspension assembly provides a smoother ride.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Inventors: Ronald Decker, Tim Decker
  • Patent number: 8480109
    Abstract: A pulley and drive belt system comprising a drive belt and at least one pulley configured to engage a surface of the drive belt, the at least one pulley comprising, a frame configured to rotate about a rotation axis, the frame having a circular outer rim with opposing sides, a plurality of circumferential teeth extending radially and axially of the rim, each tooth having a tooth width and each tooth being configured to be received between adjacent lugs of the drive belt, and an alignment member having a wire form and extending between adjacent circumferential teeth tops, and the alignment member extending no further radially from the rotation axis than the circumferential teeth, a debris ejecting opening disposed radially inward of the alignment member between the circumferential teeth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: The Gates Corporation
    Inventor: Richard J. Adams
  • Patent number: 8465039
    Abstract: Bike comprising a first frame element extending from one end carrying a front wheel housing to a lower end, a second frame element extending to a lower end rigidly fixed to the first lower end, a rear fork comprising a chainstay extending from the first element to a spindle support and a seat stay extending from the spindle support to the second element, a crankset having a lateral chainring, a rear wheel driven by a sprocket inside the fork, a belt engaged with the chainring and the sprocket. The chainstay has a major portion arranged below a straight line passing through the lower ends of the chainring and of the sprocket. The belt extends through the triangle formed by the second frame element, the chainstay and the seat stay, which form an irremovable assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: Matra Manufacturing & Services
    Inventor: Mickael Duvivier
  • Publication number: 20130119631
    Abstract: An unmotorized sand-rideable bicycle utilizes oversized balloon tires that have an enlarged footprint to permit the bicycle to ride up over even loose sand to provide ease of pedaling as well as enhanced steering and stability over that associated with standard bicycles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 2, 2013
    Publication date: May 16, 2013
    Inventors: William R. Raike, III, Gene Langmesser
  • Patent number: 8434776
    Abstract: A shock absorbing bicycle frame includes a front frame unit connected to a bottom bracket shell by which the drive tension is applied to a drive chain, a rear wheel swing arm attached to the front frame unit at a single pivot point and presenting a mounting end to receive a rear axle of a rear wheel. The distance between the mounting end and the bottom bracket shell is variable over the full rear wheel travel. The frame further includes a rear wheel suspension assembly including a compressible shock absorbing unit connecting the rear wheel swing arm to the front frame unit and a chain unit pivotably mounted on the front frame unit, rigidly connected to both the rear wheel swing arm and to the drive chain to maintain the drive chain length over the full rear wheel travel so that the shock absorbing unit is not affected by pedalling forces due to the rider pedalling, the pedalling forces being then not wasted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Inventor: Andy Wuthrich
  • Publication number: 20130093157
    Abstract: One embodiment of a tricycle having a spine frame, supported by a rear wheel and a pair of steerable front wheels, and supporting a recumbent seat pivotably attached at its rear. A pedal boom extends forwardly of the spine and supports a pedal crank assembly. The front wheels each support a lateral arm with the front wheel pivotably attached at the distal end and an angular projection attached at the proximal end. A pivot connects each angular projection to the spine, allowing the lateral arms and attached front wheels to fold to a stowed position alongside the spine. Another pivot connects the boom to the spine, allowing the boom fold back to a stowed position against the spine. In the travel position, clamping means arrest the angular projections, and can arrest the boom and seat. The tricycle is collapsible to several levels of compactness.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2012
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Inventors: Alan Roy Ball, Eric John Ball
  • Publication number: 20130092465
    Abstract: A folding vehicle having a chassis that functions as a protective, carry-on casing is provided. The vehicle has a chassis with a center member, a rotatably-lockable front strut, a rotatably-lockable rear strut, and two pivot points for converting the vehicle from an operational state to a collapsed state; and, a drive member with a crankshaft. The crankshaft and the rotatably-lockable front strut pivot share a central axis of rotation; and, the releasably-lockable front strut and the releasably-lockable rear strut are configured to fold into a complementary relationship in the interior of the channel in the collapsed state. The channel functions as a protective, carry-on case for the folding vehicle in the collapsed state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2012
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Applicant: MDM Productivity, LLC
    Inventor: MDM Productivity, LLC
  • Patent number: 8371974
    Abstract: To facilitate a tension adjusting operation in the chain tension structure without changing a wheelbase of a vehicle. In the chain tension structure in which a chain is wound around a drive sprocket wheel which is arranged below a vehicle body frame and a driven sprocket wheel which is mounted on a rear wheel side and tension is imparted to the chain by a tension roller, the tension roller is mounted in a state that a hexagon socket head cap screw which constitutes a rotary shaft of the tension roller is inserted into an elongated hole which is opened in a plate-like projecting portion formed on the vehicle body frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kenji Morita
  • Patent number: 8348294
    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: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: MDM Productivity, LLC
    Inventor: Jon P. Moldestad
  • Publication number: 20120318595
    Abstract: Modular human powered recumbent vehicle has a variable configuration and size. It comprises a group of standardized modules—fast attachable parts connected together by set of cross tubes (4) of variable length. It has three basic modules: middle (1), left (2) and right (3); each module has several modifications. One or more additional modules, like child seat (17), shopping basket (18), additional pedal (15) or electric (16) drive, also can be attached for performing a specific task. Vehicle can be transformed to a powered or unpowered trailer of variable configuration. It can be folded for storage and disassembled for transportation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2011
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Inventors: Alexandre Belenkov, Eugene Belenkov, Anna Belenkova
  • Publication number: 20120280466
    Abstract: A double chainring drivetrain system for bicycles that allows riders to apply force directly to a pair of chainrings, one on either side of the bottom bracket. The double chainring drivetrain system has two crank arms, each connected to a peripheral rim portion of the chainrings, and two drive chains. A hub on the rear wheel has two sprockets such that the two drive chains extend between the chainrings and the rear sprockets for transfer of applied rotational forces from the pedals on either side of the bicycle through the two chainrings to the rear sprockets on hub of the rear wheel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2011
    Publication date: November 8, 2012
    Inventor: Julian E. Woods
  • Patent number: 8297143
    Abstract: An electrical bicycle shift control device is provided with a base member, a first shift operating member and a second shift operating member. The handlebar mounting portion is configured to be fixedly mounted to a free end of a bicycle handlebar. The base member includes a handlebar mounting portion that is configured to be fixedly mounted a handlebar. The first shift operating member is pivotally coupled the base member from a rest position to a shift position in a first shift operating direction. The second shift operating member is mounted on the first shift operating member to move with the first shift operating member with respect to the base member. The second shift operating member is independently movable relative the first shift operating member from a rest position to a shift position in a second shift operating direction that is different to the first shift operating direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: Shimano Inc.
    Inventors: Kazuhiro Fujii, Akinobu Uno
  • Patent number: 8246064
    Abstract: A bicycle crank assembly is provided with a crank arm and an axial gap adjustment device. The crank arm has a crank axle mounting part, an extension part extending from the crank axle mounting part, a pedal attachment part provided on a radial outer end of the extension part and a sprocket attachment part. The axial gap adjustment device includes an adjustment adapter and an adjustment member. The adjustment adapter has a crank arm engagement structure that non-rotatably engages the crank arm, a first crank axle opening, and a first screw part. The adjustment member has a second crank axle opening, and a second screw part threadedly engaged with the first screw part to selectively position the adjustment member relative to the adjustment adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Shimano Inc.
    Inventors: Eigo Kuroiwa, Masahiro Yamanaka, Shingo Shiraishi
  • Patent number: 8235849
    Abstract: A combined chain guide and chain ring protector for a bicycle for off-road use having a lower bracket sleeve, a chain ring around which a drive chain extends and a chain ring outer radius. The protector includes a mounting bracket secured at the lower bracket sleeve and a guard mounted thereto. An outer edge of the guard extends beyond the outer radius of the chain ring, thereby protecting a portion of the chain ring from inadvertent impacts. The chain guide extends from the mounting bracket along a path of the drive chain, and preferably includes an upper guide having an inner barrier positioned inboard of the bicycle chain an outer barrier positioned outboard of the inner barrier and an upper barrier positioned above the bicycle chain for preventing the chain from derailing from the chain ring in an upward direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Eko Sport, Inc.
    Inventors: Ryan K. Cranston, James K. Rogers
  • Patent number: 8235408
    Abstract: A bicycle shift control device comprises a traveling state detecting circuit that detects a traveling state of the bicycle and a manually operated switch that outputs a switch signal. A shift control circuit provides a control signal, in response to the switch signal provided by the operation of the switch, for setting the speed stage of a bicycle transmission to correspond to the range of traveling states that contains the detected traveling state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Shimano, Inc.
    Inventor: Etsuyoshi Watarai
  • Publication number: 20120186892
    Abstract: The invention relates to a drive unit for a muscle-powered vehicle having a crankshaft mounted in a crankcase or in a frame. At least one crank for transferring the muscle power of a driver to a drive wheel of the vehicle is fastened to the crankshaft. A gear unit is provided, which is arranged in the power train from the crankshaft to a driven gear of the gear unit coupled to the drive wheel of the vehicle. According to the invention, a substantially stationary part of the gear unit for determining a total torque of the crankshaft is supported on the crankcase or on the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2010
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Inventors: Andreas Felsl, Florian Loeffl
  • Patent number: 8226103
    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: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Inventor: Rodolfo (Rudy) Reyes
  • Publication number: 20120181772
    Abstract: A vehicle with a collapsible body. With this construction a one-person's vehicle can be folded together to a very compact size with the dimensions of an average suitcase. The body comprises two halves: a front and back part. Each of these parts contains a lower and upper hollow section. Each upper hollow section can slide telescopically in and out the lower hollow section, thus enlarging or reducing the length of the corresponding part. In the collapsed state both parts with all their sections are nested into each other. A further reduction of the volume of the collapsed vehicle can be achieved by using a chassis with two retractable slidable frame parts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2010
    Publication date: July 19, 2012
    Applicant: ANDEREGGHOLDING BV
    Inventor: Paul Gokkel
  • Patent number: 8162340
    Abstract: A mechanism for shifting a chain from one sprocket to another sprocket is disclosed herein. The mechanism preferably includes rotor assembly, a control element and a chain tensioner. The rotor assembly preferably has a conical shaped body with a chain slot having clearance windows and cam surfaces. The control element rotates the rotor assembly to shift the chain from one of the sprockets to another sprocket without lateral movement of the rotor assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Inventor: Sam Patterson
  • Patent number: 8152189
    Abstract: A bicycle frame includes a front section and a rear section. The front section includes a front frame portion having a front coupling configured to receive a front wheel support member and to allow rotation between the front coupling and the front wheel support member, the front frame portion defining a central vertical plane of the frame. The rear section includes a drive link case having an upper tube, a lower tube, a rear hub housing, and a front sprocket housing all integrally arranged with each other to form a rigid drive link case having an opening disposed between the upper and lower tubes, the drive link case being connected to the front frame portion via the front sprocket housing. The drive link case is disposed eccentric to the central vertical plane and is cantilevered rearward from the front sprocket housing. The front frame portion extends forward from the front sprocket housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Cannondale Bicycle Corporation
    Inventors: Christopher Philip Dodman, Torgny Fjeldskaar
  • Patent number: 8146938
    Abstract: A pedalling method and device for a user in standing position. The device includes a drive shaft whereof the rotation about its axis is coupled with the rotation of two right and left pedals. The pedals are mutually assembled via a plurality of cranks, connecting rods, and pivots such that: the pedals can travel freely along a circular path, for a constant rotational speed of the shaft, the speeds of the pedals are recurrent at equal time intervals but out of phase, minimal at lower dead center, maximal at upper dead center, and when the pedals are simultaneously at a common height lower than that of the center of the trajectory, the speeds of the pedals are equal. The vertical oscillation of the center of gravity of a user in standing position is reduced compared to a conventional pedal assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Dreamslide
    Inventor: Jean-Marc Gobillard
  • Patent number: 8136827
    Abstract: A self aligning belt drive system comprises a belt drive having a plurality of longitudinally spaced inner lobes each having an alignment groove. The system further comprises at least one pulley comprising a frame configured to rotate about a rotation axis and having a circular outer rim. A plurality of circumferential teeth extend radially and axially of the rim with each tooth being configured to be received between adjacent inner lugs of the drive belt. An alignment flange extends radially between circumferential teeth. The alignment flange is configured to be received in the alignment groove and the alignment flange extends no further radially from the rotational axis than the circumferential teeth. The circumferential teeth, the alignment flange and the alignment groove are configured so that with the alignment flange received in the alignment groove, the drive belt rides on the circumferential teeth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: The Gates Corporation
    Inventor: Wayne R. Lumpkin
  • Patent number: 8070633
    Abstract: An eccentric bottom bracket assembly having a body member, at least two wing members, a wedge driver with two wedge members, and at least one spring member altogether forming a tubular, cylindrical assembly to fit within the inner shell of the bottom bracket area of the bicycle frame for adjusting the chain length or tension. The assembly is preferably used for the front and rear bottom brackets of a tandem bicycle for adjusting the chain that is connected to the front and rear driving sprockets. The assembly is also alternatively used in single-rider bicycles and other bicycles with the need for adjusting chain tension. The assembly allows for the wing members and the body member to circumferentially and outwardly expand or inwardly retract by co-acting with the rotation of the wedge driver which laterally displaces the wedge members in a parallel direction relative to the longitudinal axis of the body member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: Bikebiz, III, Inc.
    Inventor: Dennis L. Bushnell
  • Publication number: 20110241307
    Abstract: Bike comprising a first frame element extending from one end carrying a front wheel housing to a lower end, a second frame element extending to a lower end rigidly fixed to the first lower end, a rear fork comprising a chainstay extending from the first element to a spindle support and a seat stay extending from the spindle support to the second element, a crankset having a lateral chainring, a rear wheel driven by a sprocket inside the fork, a belt engaged with the chainring and the sprocket. The chainstay has a major portion arranged below a straight line passing through the lower ends of the chainring and of the sprocket. The belt extends through the triangle formed by the second frame element, the chainstay and the seat stay, which form an irremovable assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2011
    Publication date: October 6, 2011
    Applicant: MATRA MANUFACTURING & SERVICES
    Inventor: Mickael Duvivier
  • Publication number: 20110241306
    Abstract: A bicycle comprising a frame and at least one wheel attached to the frame, the frame further comprising a receiver, a first planetary gear transmission disposed in the receiver, the wheel having a hub, a second planetary gear transmission disposed in the hub, and an endless member for transmitting a torque trained between the first planetary gear transmission and the second planetary gear transmission.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2010
    Publication date: October 6, 2011
    Inventors: Alexander Serkh, Dean Schneider
  • Patent number: 8020883
    Abstract: A logical third axle gear train for a bicycle, comprising a power gear operatively connected to at least one sprocket and adapted to be rotatably mounted on a bicycle frame. A drive gear is operatively connected to a hub assembly on which a drive wheel is mounted. A conversion gear adapted to be rotatably mounted on the bicycle frame is disposed between the power gear and drive gear to transmit torque from the power gear to drive gear. The drive wheel is removable from the bicycle frame without manipulation of a chain for driving the sprocket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Jensen and Brusca Consulting Group
    Inventor: Victor G. Brusca
  • Publication number: 20110215548
    Abstract: The modified gear configuration of the bicycle drive system ultimately allows the rider to operate the bicycle in a very efficient manner. The gears allow for increased torque and power distribution to the bike's rear wheel. In turn, this reduces the amount of effort required to power the bicycle. This allows the rider to conserve energy, particularly when traveling long distances, which makes it easier for the rider to reach faster speeds and climb hills more easily. The bicycle also features taller wheel rims and tires which allow the rider to cover more distance with each pedal rotation in addition to providing a smoother ride.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2011
    Publication date: September 8, 2011
    Inventor: Paul Joseph Horwat, JR.
  • Publication number: 20110140390
    Abstract: A bicycle crank assembly is provided with a crank arm and an axial gap adjustment device. The crank arm has a crank axle mounting part, an extension part extending from the crank axle mounting part, a pedal attachment part provided on a radial outer end of the extension part and a sprocket attachment part. The axial gap adjustment device includes an adjustment adapter and an adjustment member. The adjustment adapter has a crank arm engagement structure that non-rotatably engages the crank arm, a first crank axle opening, and a first screw part. The adjustment member has a second crank axle opening, and a second screw part threadedly engaged with the first screw part to selectively position the adjustment member relative to the adjustment adapter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2009
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Applicant: Shimano Inc.
    Inventors: Eigo KUROIWA, Masahiro YAMANAKA, Shingo SHIRAISHI