Two-wheel Controlled Patents (Class 280/267)
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Patent number: 11952076Abstract: There is described a three-wheeled vehicle (1) with two front steered wheels and two footboards (41.1, 41.2) on which the driver stands to drive the vehicle. The footboards are supported on a tilting four-bar linkage, having a front crosspiece 27 and a rear crosspiece 33, between which two rocker arms 31.1 and 31.2 extend. The front steered wheels are supported by the rocker arms and rotate around steering axes (S.1, S.2).Type: GrantFiled: November 11, 2020Date of Patent: April 9, 2024Assignee: PIAGGIO & C. S.P.A.Inventor: Andrea Raffaelli
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Patent number: 11820459Abstract: A leaning vehicle including a braking mechanism, a linkage mechanism configured to cause a body frame of the leaning vehicle to lean leftward or rightward, a lean lock mechanism configured to restrict leftward leaning and rightward leaning of the vehicle body frame, and an interlocking mechanism configured to actuate the braking mechanism and the lean lock mechanism. The interlocking mechanism includes an operation input section configured to input a first operating force, a brake-operation-input section configured to input a second operating force, an operating force distributor configured to distribute the first operating force input by the operation input section to the lean lock mechanism and the braking mechanism, and a brake actuator configured to actuate the braking mechanism by the first operating force distributed to the braking mechanism by the operating force distributor, or by the second operating force input by the brake-operation-input section.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 2021Date of Patent: November 21, 2023Assignee: YAMAHA HATSUDOKI KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventor: Haruhito Kurakake
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Patent number: 11548582Abstract: The invention relates to a three-wheeled electric vehicle (10) comprising a front-axle device (22) having two steerable front wheels (24a, 24b) which are aligned substantially parallel to each other when traveling straight ahead; a rear-axle device (12) with a driven rear wheel (14); and a vehicle frame (26) on which the front-axle device (22) and the rear-axle device (12) are supported; wherein the front-axle device (22) is designed such that when the steering angle is rotated, the vehicle frame (26) and the front wheels (24a, 24b) may be tilted in the direction of the rotated steering angle.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2019Date of Patent: January 10, 2023Assignee: SHARE YOUR BICAR AGInventors: Adrian Burri Michel, Hans-Jörg Dennig, Cyrill Jacomet, Salome Johanna Berger
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Patent number: 10919596Abstract: A method and apparatus for an adjustable suspension system for a vehicle comprises at least one strut. In one embodiment, the stanchion (or slider) is non-uniform with a major and minor circumferential stiffness and is adjustable relative to a fore and aft axis of the vehicle in order to provide a differing amount of stiffness relative thereto. In another embodiment, a portion of the stanchion is circular and a reinforcement is annularly disposed therearound with axial retention formations, The reinforcement has a non-uniform circumferential characteristic and is rotatable relative to the fore/aft axis of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2019Date of Patent: February 16, 2021Assignee: Fox Factory, Inc.Inventors: Mario Galasso, Wesley E. Allinger
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Patent number: 10898786Abstract: A sport board system is provided, the system having a sport board deck having a bottom surface, a front end and a rear end, a rear wheel assembly fixed to the bottom surface adjacent the rear end, and a fixation structure for a wheel assembly at the front end. The fixation structure has a notch passing through a thickness of the sport board deck, fixation rails parallel to a length of the sport board deck, and a locking mechanism at an end of the notch. Also provided is a method for transforming a sport board system from a skateboard configuration to a scooter configuration.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2019Date of Patent: January 26, 2021Assignee: DGL GROUP LTD.Inventor: Marc Liniado
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Patent number: 10850794Abstract: This disclosure relates to a system for balancing a bicycle. The system can comprise a frame, a tension system, and a steering system. The frame can be capable of mounting to a bicycle. The tension system can be capable of connecting with handlebars of the bicycle. The steering system can be mounted to the frame, further the steering system can be in communication with the tension system such that manually maneuvering the steering system can adjust tension within the tension system to steer the bicycle.Type: GrantFiled: July 4, 2018Date of Patent: December 1, 2020Inventor: Chad Wilson
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Patent number: 10435106Abstract: A method and apparatus for an adjustable suspension system for a vehicle comprises at least one strut. In one embodiment, the stanchion (or slider) is non-uniform with a major and minor circumferential stiffness and is adjustable relative to a fore and aft axis of the vehicle in order to provide a differing amount of stiffness relative thereto. In another embodiment, a portion of the stanchion is circular and a reinforcement is annularly disposed therearound with axial retention formations, The reinforcement has a non-uniform circumferential characteristic and is rotatable relative to the fore/aft axis of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2017Date of Patent: October 8, 2019Assignee: Fox Factory, Inc.Inventors: Mario Galasso, Wesley E. Allinger
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Patent number: 10238952Abstract: A roller board device like a skateboard or scooter operated by a user with one or more user-maneuverable wheel assemblies that are automatically returned to their “true north” position is provided according to the invention.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2018Date of Patent: March 26, 2019Assignee: Roll, Inc.Inventors: Dave Clos, William Charles Vetter, Troy A. Pongratz
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Patent number: 9987546Abstract: A roller board device like a skateboard or scooter operated by a user with one or more user-maneuverable wheel assemblies that are automatically returned to their “true north” position is provided according to the invention.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2017Date of Patent: June 5, 2018Assignee: Roll, Inc.Inventors: Dave Clos, William Charles Vetter, Troy A. Pongratz
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Patent number: 9855965Abstract: An infant carrier includes a carrier frame, a wheel, and a vibration dampening device disposed therebetween. The vibration dampening device includes a first vibration dampening part, a second vibration dampening part, and an actuator. The first and the second vibration dampening parts are disposed between the carrier frame and the wheel. The actuator is movably disposed on the carrier frame or the wheel. The releasing position has a releasing position and an enabling position for adjusting an action range of the second vibration dampening part moving to the actuator. Therefore, the action range can be adjusted by adjusting the position of the actuator for making an vibration dampening effect performed by the first vibration dampening part or by the first vibration dampening part together with the second vibration dampening part, so that the infant carrier can adapt to different road conditions by adjusting the vibration dampening device through the actuator.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2016Date of Patent: January 2, 2018Assignee: Wonderland Switzerland AGInventor: Ji Hua Huang
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Patent number: 9623926Abstract: A walker device is disclosed including an overarching frame with an overarching top, and a sitting assembly coupled to the frame. The frame extends at least primarily in a first direction between a front side with at least two front wheels and a rear side with a first rear wheel. The frame includes a rear frame part and a middle frame part. The rear frame part includes a height allowing a user to walk over the rear frame part and take place on the sitting assembly. The middle frame part includes a width allowing a user to place his or her legs on either side of the middle frame part. The sitting assembly suitably includes a hinge with a saddle pad for a transition between a first state and a second state.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 2013Date of Patent: April 18, 2017Inventor: Barbara Elisabeth Alink
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Patent number: 9452806Abstract: At least a portion of a tie rod of a steering force transmitting mechanism overlaps with a portion of a first support member or a second support member when viewed from a front of a vehicle in a fully-tilted condition in which the vehicle body frame is fully tilted in the left-right direction. At least a portion of the tie rod is disposed below a second cross member, above a first front wheel and a second front wheel, behind a front end of the first front wheel and a front end of the second front wheel, and ahead of a first axis of a first side member and a second axis of a second side member when viewed from the left or right of the vehicle when the vehicle body frame is in an upright state.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2013Date of Patent: September 27, 2016Assignee: YAMAHA HATSUDOKI KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Yosuke Hirayama, Toshio Iizuka, Yutaka Kubo, Takahiro Watanabe, Noboru Miyamoto, Kaoru Sasaki, Hirokatsu Ogawa
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Publication number: 20150069732Abstract: A three-wheeled cycle is provided that can be ridden in an upright position. The cycle can have a suspension system for traversing rough terrain and for traction when turning. The front wheels can have a steering assembly comprised of a two-piece steering arm that clamps the handlebar to the front fork and connection rod with linkage pins. Furthermore, the design of the cycle can be favorable for transport of additional cargo loads.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 4, 2014Publication date: March 12, 2015Inventor: Peter Godlewski
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Publication number: 20150042063Abstract: The preferred embodiments provide a frame for a one person three-wheeled human powered vehicle, the rear portion of which resembles an upright bicycle frame capable of supporting a fixed rear drive wheel substantially in alignment with the frame centerline. The frame has a left-side lateral extension and a right-side lateral extension, each of which includes a head tube at or near its outer end where front forks or steering posts can be secured. Each front fork or steering post can then hold one of two front steerable wheels. The frame is compatible with shock-absorbing suspension technology, which can be employed if desired.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 7, 2013Publication date: February 12, 2015Inventor: Michael Lawrence Serpa
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Publication number: 20140375015Abstract: A motorized reverse trike with a tiltable body comprises a frame with a header pipe, two front wheels, a tilting mechanism arranged on the header pipe, two suspension mechanisms hinged between the two front wheels and the tilting mechanism respectively, a steering mechanism with handlebars hinged between the header pipe and the two suspension mechanisms, and a locking mechanism for locking the tilting mechanism.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 11, 2013Publication date: December 25, 2014Inventor: Jinjun YU
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Patent number: 8894081Abstract: An adapter for interconnecting two bicycles in a side-by-side configuration, wherein the adapter comprises a plurality of articulating joints to permit the joined bicycles to articulate or tilt in coordination while being ridden. The present invention further includes various tilting mechanisms and braking systems to achieve and maintain desired tilted positions of the joined or interconnected bicycles.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2013Date of Patent: November 25, 2014Assignee: eMetrus, Inc.Inventor: A. Steven Teerlink
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Patent number: 8827296Abstract: A three wheeled scooter comprises a chassis having forward and aft ends with a front wheel non-pivotally mounted to the forward end and a pair of rear wheels coaxially mounted to the aft end. The chassis defines a longitudinal axis and includes a support assembly and a handle assembly extending upwardly from the support assembly. The rear wheels are configured to be angularly yawable relative to the longitudinal axis between a neutral position and a yawed position. Steering of the scooter is thereby effectuated by angular yawing of the rear wheels relative to the longitudinal axis such as by asymmetric loading of one of opposing sides of the support assembly.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2012Date of Patent: September 9, 2014Assignee: SBYKE USA LLCInventor: Bradley E. Wernli
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Publication number: 20140183836Abstract: A steering apparatus for a two-wheeled motor vehicle includes a handlebars-side steering shaft supported by a head pipe, a wheel supporting cylindrical shaft supported by a front axle and over which a hub is fitted, and a steering link mechanism. First and second link members of the link mechanism are connected to each other in a plurality of articulations such that the link members can angularly move. An amount of angular movement is limited to a predetermined range, and a distance between a front wheel-side end and the steering shaft-side end of the steering link mechanism can be changed. The front wheel-side end of the steering link mechanism is connected to the wheel supporting cylindrical shaft through a brake caliper bracket member.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 26, 2013Publication date: July 3, 2014Applicant: KAWASAKI JUKOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Hiroshi ISHII, Daisuke SAEKI
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Patent number: 8764040Abstract: A quadricycle includes a four-wheel suspension system that is structured to maintain contact between the ground and the wheels when traversing uneven terrain, as well as to permit a rider to lean into a curve in order to facilitate steering the vehicle. The suspension assemblies are relatively wide to resist rollover accidents. Shock absorbers within the suspension assemblies are angled from vertical to provide both a vertical force component and a horizontal force component in order to permit leaning into a curve while resisting excessive leaning. The quadricycle's drivetrain is structured to increase clearance between the ground and many drivetrain components. Smaller components of the spindle and wheel hub assembly are protected by larger components of the suspension assembly.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2012Date of Patent: July 1, 2014Inventor: Dennis DeLauter
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Publication number: 20140097592Abstract: Knee-walkers allow amputees and individuals with injuries to maintain independent movement. Their stability and steering is very important. The invention comprises a knee-walker (10) comprising a frame (20), at least two ground-engaging wheels (50) at the front, a seat (90), a steering column (70), and a steering belt (200) linking the steering column to the two front wheels, the two front wheels being steered by rotation of the steering column and consequent rotation of the belt.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 4, 2012Publication date: April 10, 2014Inventor: Paul Smith
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Publication number: 20140091551Abstract: An apparatus is provided for bicycles to make them more utilitarian and functional. The attachment is easily attached, and potentially attached without damage or significant modification to the bicycle. The apparatus includes a frame member attached to the bottom bracket portion of the existing bicycle, and a gimbal attached to the fork of the existing bicycle in place of the original front tire. The apparatus is steerable using the handle bars and fork on the existing bicycle frame, and is configured for stability when cornering. The apparatus includes a cargo carrier located in front of the cycler where it is easy to see, while maintaining a stable center of gravity and also an ability to lean into corners for cornering stability. Variations include one or two front wheels, and one or two steering drive links. Also, the apparatus is a flexible design providing multiple potential utilitarian uses.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 2, 2013Publication date: April 3, 2014Applicant: Hauler Cycles, LLCInventor: Christopher J. Walter
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Publication number: 20140049021Abstract: The present invention provides a road holding ability mechanism applied to a motorcycle with two wheels in front. The mechanism may be configured on a three-wheeled motorcycle which has two front wheels and a single rear wheel or on a four-wheeled motorcycle with two front wheels as well as two rear wheels. Under any operating condition, the mechanism enables the two front wheels to offer great road holding ability, that is, to remain stable when moving so as to ensure the motorcycle against rollovers. The present invention includes a simple and innovative structure.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 14, 2012Publication date: February 20, 2014Applicant: Aeon Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Huei-Huay HUANG, Chin-Chi LIN
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Patent number: 8511705Abstract: An automatic wheel adjustment mechanism mounted between two front wheels and a front wheel stem of a foldable motorized vehicle, comprising: (a) a front wheel supporting shaft having a bearing housing positioned on the top center portion of the front wheel supporting shaft, a first connecting portion, and a second connecting portion positioned on the front wheel supporting shaft, (b) a connecting member having a ring on one end and a connecting shaft on other end, wherein the connecting shaft extends upwards to form a connecting portion, and (c) a plurality of bearings, wherein outer races of the bearings is fixed at the center portion of the front wheel supporting shaft, the ring of the connecting member is connected to the lower end of the front wheel stem, the connecting shaft of the connecting member passes through and fixedly connected to the inner races of the plurality of the bearings.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2012Date of Patent: August 20, 2013Inventors: Chichun Wu, Zhao Zhang
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Patent number: 8496257Abstract: Knee walker assemblies and methods of manufacturing a knee walker assembly are provided herein. One concept of the present disclosure is directed to a knee walker assembly that includes a frame, a support platform and a handle mounted to the frame, at least one rear wheel mounted proximate the rear end of the frame, and at least two front wheels swivel mounted proximate the front end of the frame. A locking mechanism is operatively engaged with the at least two front wheels. The locking mechanism is configured to substantially simultaneously lock both of the at least two front wheels in a rigid-type mounting configuration.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2012Date of Patent: July 30, 2013Assignee: Medline Industries, Inc.Inventors: Linda M. Walther, Ethan S. Abernathey, Ishwor P. Adhikari, John H. Kutsch, Vincent R. Lackowski
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Patent number: 8382140Abstract: A cycle comprises a frame, a front fork and a rear fork. The cycle is convertible between a bicycle, a tricycle and a quad-cycle by replacement of wheels.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2010Date of Patent: February 26, 2013Inventor: Anthony John Wayman
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Patent number: 8225914Abstract: A shock absorbing device may include a first stem having an inner surface extending along a longitudinal axis, and a second stem configured to receive a portion of the first stem. The shock absorbing device may also include a guide member having an outer surface configured to prevent the first stem from rotating relative to the guide member. The shock absorbing device may further include a shock absorbing structure disposed between the first stem and the second stem. The shock absorbing device may further include a bearing device configured to rotatably guide movement of the first stem relative to the second stem along a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the first stem and prevent radial sway between the first and second stems.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2007Date of Patent: July 24, 2012Assignee: Giant Manufacturing Co., Ltd.Inventor: Johnson Yih
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Patent number: 8066294Abstract: A portable jogging tricycle includes a main frame, a handle base, a rear wheel support frame connected to opposite sides of the handle base, two front wheel support frames and two foldable frames attached between the handle base and the front wheel support frame. The foldable frame includes a plurality of scissor lifts and is used for folding the two front wheel support frames close to the handle base. The main frame includes a plurality of pivoted arms for folding the main frame together to fold in the handle base and the rear wheel support frame.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2010Date of Patent: November 29, 2011Inventor: Hui-Te Tsai
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Patent number: 8061465Abstract: Disclosed is a three-wheeled vehicle with centrally positioned motor and driver's seat. An exemplary embodiment has a frame for supporting a driver and a multitude of mechanical devices. A pair of steerable front wheels are rotatably affixed to the front portion of the frame. A rear wheel is rotatably affixed along the frame's centerline in the rear portion. A motor is affixed to the frame's centerline. The driver's seat is also affixed to the frame's centerline behind the motor and ahead of the rear wheel, so the driver sitting in the driver seat is in both a recumbent and straddle position.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2009Date of Patent: November 22, 2011Inventor: Marc Gregory Martino
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Patent number: 8016311Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: May 21, 2010Date of Patent: September 13, 2011Inventors: Tyler Hadzicki, Joseph Hadzicki
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Patent number: 7976046Abstract: Two versions of recumbent human powered three wheeled vehicles are disclosed. Both are of the tadpole type with two front wheels and one rear drive wheel. Both versions lean into turns causing weight transfer toward the inside of turns to prevent rollover during turns at speed.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2008Date of Patent: July 12, 2011Inventor: Lawrence Rathsack
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Patent number: 7970511Abstract: An electronic steering damper system is provided for a vehicle. The electronic steering damper system can be supported with respect to the vehicle's frame and can selectively impose resistance to steering of one or more of the vehicle's wheels in response to a vehicle condition signal received from a sensor such as, for example, a vehicle speed sensor. An actuator connected with the electronic steering damper system can be configured for use by an operator to adjust the manner in which the electronic steering damper system selectively imposes resistance to steering of the wheel(s) in response to the vehicle condition signal. Vehicles including an electronic steering damper system are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2008Date of Patent: June 28, 2011Assignee: Honda Motor Company, Ltd.Inventor: Mark T. Kohls
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Publication number: 20110031716Abstract: The present invention consists of a human-powered, wheeled vehicle, having: a) two front wheels, each of the two front wheels pivotally coupled to a frame by a pivoting mount; b) one or more rear wheels, one or more of the rear wheels coupled to a drive mechanism and operative to provide a driving force for the vehicle; and c) a steering mechanism coupled to the front wheels, the steering mechanism including a handle for steering control by a driver of the vehicle, a first linkage connecting the handle to a first one of the pivoting mounts and a second linkage connecting the first one of the pivoting mounts to a second one of the pivoting mounts.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 21, 2010Publication date: February 10, 2011Inventor: Luther TAYLOR
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Patent number: 7871095Abstract: A two wheel steering bicycle with two steering controls and rider positioned facing an angle greater than zero and less than ninety degrees with respect to the direction of motion. A frame member connects the rear head tube to the front head tube. The rear fork can rotate within the rear head tube. A rear steering handle is connected to the rear fork. The front fork can rotate within the front head tube. A front steering handle is connected to the front fork. A seat tube member attaches to the frame member. A bicycle saddle is attached to the seat tube member in such a way as to position the rider facing an angle greater than zero and less than ninety degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis of the frame member.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2008Date of Patent: January 18, 2011Inventor: Michael Killian
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Publication number: 20110006500Abstract: Disclosed commuter vehicles include a chassis that includes a frame, opposed first and second steerable front wheels, a trailing rear wheel, and a linear-input steering mechanism for controlling an orientation of the first and second steerable front wheels. The commuter vehicles also include a drive-train for transmitting rotational motion and torque from a power-input source to rotational motion of the trailing rear wheel, and a body defining a cockpit and being supported by the chassis. An outer-most lateral dimension of the body corresponds to a maximum outer-most lateral dimension of the commuter vehicle. Embodiments of linear-input steering mechanisms compatible with commuter vehicles being so dimensioned as to fit through an open door are described.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 13, 2009Publication date: January 13, 2011Inventor: Philip A. Rush
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Publication number: 20100230925Abstract: A four wheeled, human-powered, striding cycle that uses the stepping and striding motion of the human legs to propel a rider forward. Two separate and dependent foot pedals are moved fore and aft along a concaved arc segment. The motion simulates the natural stepping and striding motion of a running human. A standing human steps on a pedal, then moves it down and aft in a striding motion. As one pedal is moved aft, the other pedal moves forward in a reciprocating fashion. A cable and pulley system connects each pedal with its respective rear wheel. Pedal motion aft applies torque to its respective drive shaft which in turn rotates its respective drive wheel. Pedal motion forward also provides torque to the opposing drive shaft creating additional torque for the opposite wheel. Forward motion begins when force is exerted down and aft on each pedal by the stepping and striding motion of the human leg.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 11, 2009Publication date: September 16, 2010Inventor: Todd Thielbar
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Patent number: 7793956Abstract: The present invention provides a scooter with driving mechanism comprising a scooter assembly and at least a driving mechanism, wherein the scooter assembly has a treadle and a rear wheel; the driving mechanism comprises a reset device and a transmission device, which has an irreversible transmission unit and a passively driven gear, wherein the passively driven gear is driven by the driving gear in meshed manner to drive the irreversible transmission unit in relay way, the irreversible transmission unit, which is connected to the rear wheel, is served to drive the rear wheel to rotate in single direction. Thus, by means of the treading and releasing actions with the treadle, the scooter can be driven smoothly with benefits in not only the risk of tumbling down accident being avoided but also the effects in energy-saving and environmental protection being achieved.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2008Date of Patent: September 14, 2010Assignee: Laing Ban International Inc.Inventor: Mei-Yen Hsu
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Patent number: 7780180Abstract: A knee walker includes a frame; a cushion; a front crossmember; two rear wheels; two front spindles and two front wheels each pivotally connected to one of the two front spindles. Positive steering is provided by a handlebar rotatably connected to the front end of the frame; a steering gear responsively engaged with the rotatably connected handlebar shaft; a steering arm actuated by the steering gear responsive to the handlebar; a steering rod connecting the steering arm and one of the two front spindles, so as to pivot one associated front wheel responsive to the steering arm; and a tie rod linking the two front spindles responsively to the steering rod.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2007Date of Patent: August 24, 2010Inventors: John M. Hoepner, Ching-Hsu Lin
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Patent number: 7783392Abstract: A traveling apparatus is provided with two wheels parallel each of which is driven independently, being controlled to be stable in an anteroposterior direction between the two wheels and traveling. The traveling apparatus includes a mechanism estimating an inclination of a plane where a pitch angular velocity sensor is horizontally installed with respect to a horizontal plane by using a sensor measuring a tilt of a vehicle body in a roll axis direction and a mechanism calculating a correct pitch angle by obtaining a yaw rate mixed in the pitch angular velocity sensor based on the estimated inclination and a turn velocity of the vehicle body and by canceling the yaw rate mixed.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 2006Date of Patent: August 24, 2010Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Susumu Oikawa
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Patent number: 7775538Abstract: A pedal car that is designed to serve as foot-propelled transportation for two or more individuals. The pedal car has a protected enclosure that is designed to be powered by leg power of the two front-seat passengers, with these passengers operating a pedaling system. Each of these two front-seat passengers has a two-pedal system to allow each of them to share the responsibility of providing power to the pedal car. The pedal car also has an overhead roof, with each of the two front seats having 90-degree swivel capabilities, a seat lock, and a seat belt for safety while riding.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2008Date of Patent: August 17, 2010Inventors: James D. Hertz, Cindy Hertz
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Patent number: 7747359Abstract: A vehicle includes a semi-active suspension including suspension dampers controllably adjustable in accordance with electronic stability control commands and ride and handling commands. Vehicle steering response states, turning direction states and vehicle dynamics states are binary coded in respective state variables and suspension control calibrations are binary coded in calibration words. Integrity and security of state variables and calibration words are ensured in efficient binary digit resource allocation schemes.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2005Date of Patent: June 29, 2010Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.Inventors: Kerfegar K. Katrak, Steven D. Palazzolo, Mark A. Seifert
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Patent number: 7731213Abstract: A bicycle attachment comprises a pair of spaced rotatable wheels for engaging with a support surface, a connecting portion extending between and secured to the wheels, and a securing portion hinged relative to the connecting portion such that the securing portion is able to pivot relative to the connecting portion. The securing portion is adapted to be secured relative to a fork of a bicycle such that swiveling the fork relative to a frame of the bicycle also swivels the wheels and the connecting portion relative to the frame, and such that pivoting the securing portion relative to the connecting portion also pivots the fork relative to the connecting portion.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 2007Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Inventor: Neil Saville
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Patent number: 7661501Abstract: An economically operated low cost wheeled vehicle that accommodates a single driver occupant is propelled by power provided by a controllable combination of pedaling action of the driver, an internal combustion engine and an electric motor. The vehicle is elongated upon a center axis between a front extremity and a rear extremity having a single, axially centered wheel that drives the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2008Date of Patent: February 16, 2010Inventor: Joab Jay Perdue
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Publication number: 20100025956Abstract: A wheeled vehicle, which may be a bicycle, having independent front and rear wheel steering, and rear wheel propulsion from a pedal assembly. The rear wheel is pivotally mounted to enable steering. The rear sprocket transmits torque to a jointed drive shaft which drives the rear wheel at any degree of steering. Rear steering is actuated by a frame mounted control lever, which draws a flexible cable which extends through the hollow frame. Indicia indicates the degree of rear steering. The control lever has a locking feature to prevent inadvertent steering. The rear wheel is pivotally mounted to the frame to enable clearing obstacles in the road.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 1, 2008Publication date: February 4, 2010Inventor: Maurice Raynor
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Publication number: 20100007111Abstract: A skateboard-like personal vehicle comprises a platform, a pair of steerable front wheels controlled by an upright steering lever movable left or right about a longitudinal pivot axis by one hand of the rider, a pair of rear wheels, one of which is driven by a reciprocable foot pedal, and an upright post which can be gripped by the rider's other hand.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 11, 2008Publication date: January 14, 2010Inventor: Joshua Adams
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Patent number: 7641207Abstract: The present invention offers a front suspension and steering system for cycles and motorcycles. A mainframe with two front wheels and one rear wheel, the front wheels have flat surface tires, a 2-axial hub, having a wheel axle to support the two front wheels and a tilting axis below the wheel axle, a steering arm, having a tilting axle, the tilting axle can rotate in the tilting axis when the steering arm is tilting, the steering arm is connected to the mainframe by two wish bones and can rotate in the steeling axis. During turning, the body and the rear wheel are tilting to the side of turning to keep the center of gravity on the side of turning to balance the centrifugal force, but the front wheels and the 2-axial hub do not tilt, such that it is more stable and safe during turning.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2008Date of Patent: January 5, 2010Inventor: Wang Li Yang
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Publication number: 20090283984Abstract: A two wheel steering bicycle with two steering controls and rider positioned facing an angle greater than zero and less than ninety degrees with respect to the direction of motion. A frame member connects the rear head tube to the front head tube. The rear wheel attaches to the rear fork extending upwards. The rear fork steerer column passes through the rear head tube and can rotate within the rear head tube by means of a bicycle bearing headset. A rear steering handle is connected to the rear fork steerer column. The rear steering handle is designed to contact the rider's first hand. The front wheel attaches to the front fork extending upwards. The front fork steerer column passes through the front head tube and can rotate within the front head tube by means of a bicycle bearing headset. A front steering handle is connected to the front fork steerer column. The front steering handle is designed to contact the rider's second hand. A seat tube member attaches to the frame member.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 14, 2008Publication date: November 19, 2009Inventor: Michael Killian
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Patent number: 7588110Abstract: Disclosed is a three-wheeled vehicle with centrally positioned motor and driver's seat. An exemplary embodiment has a frame for supporting a driver and a multitude of mechanical devices. A pair of steerable front wheels are rotatably affixed to the front portion of the frame. A rear wheel is rotatably affixed along the frame's centerline in the rear portion. A motor is affixed to the frame's centerline. The driver's seat is also affixed to the frame's centerline behind the motor and ahead of the rear wheel, so the driver sitting in the driver seat is in both a recumbent and straddle position.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 2005Date of Patent: September 15, 2009Inventor: Marc Gregory Martino
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Patent number: 7552934Abstract: A pedalling vehicle includes a main body, two control handles, two drive links, and a transmission link. The main body includes a front frame a front wheel, a rear frame, two rotation devices, two rear wheels, two cranks, and two connecting members. The rotation devices are connected by the transmission link through connection of the connecting members so that the rotation devices are rotatable synchronously and the rear wheels are movable with the rotation devices synchronously. Thus, the two rear wheels are turned synchronously by connection of the transmission link so as to turn and change the travel direction of the pedalling vehicle exactly.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 2006Date of Patent: June 30, 2009Inventors: Chin-Fa Lee, Yu-Shan Lee
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Patent number: 7540517Abstract: A three wheeled scooter comprises a chassis having forward and aft ends with a front wheel non-pivotally mounted to the forward end and a pair of rear wheels coaxially mounted to the aft end. The chassis defines a longitudinal axis and includes a support assembly and a handle assembly extending upwardly from the support assembly. The rear wheels are configured to be angularly yawable relative to the longitudinal axis between a neutral position and a yawed position. Steering of the scooter is thereby effectuated by angular yawing of the rear wheels relative to the longitudinal axis such as by asymmetric loading of one of opposing sides of the support assembly.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2007Date of Patent: June 2, 2009Assignee: B.E.W. Squared, LLCInventor: Bradley E. Wernli
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Publication number: 20090058036Abstract: A knee walker includes a frame; a cushion; a front crossmember; two rear wheels; two front spindles and two front wheels each pivotally connected to one of the two front spindles. Positive steering is provided by a handlebar rotatably connected to the front end of the frame; a steering gear responsively engaged with the rotatably connected handlebar shaft; a steering arm actuated by the steering gear responsive to the handlebar; a steering rod connecting the steering arm and one of the two front spindles, so as to pivot one associated front wheel responsive to the steering arm; and a tie rod linking the two front spindles responsively to the steering rod.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 27, 2007Publication date: March 5, 2009Inventors: John M. Hoepner, Ching-Hsu Lin