With Relatively Rotatable Element Patents (Class 301/37.25)
  • Patent number: 11219368
    Abstract: A physiological information management system includes sensors to be attached to patients to acquire physiological information of the patients and a mobile device. The mobile device includes a patient information acquiring section configured to acquire patient IDs identifying the patients, a sensor information acquiring section configured to acquire sensor IDs identifying the sensors, a controller configured to associate the patient IDs and the sensor IDs with each other, a wireless communicating section configured to receive sensor signals corresponding to the physiological information, from the sensors identified by the sensor IDs associated with the patient IDs, and a displaying section configured to display the physiological information based on the sensor signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2022
    Assignee: NIHON KOHDEN CORPORATION
    Inventors: Norihito Konno, Fumiyuki Matsumura, Hirohiko Ikeya
  • Patent number: 11222557
    Abstract: A spinnable indicator for transit stops has a disc having a front side and a rear side, the front side having a reflective portion and a non-reflective portion, and a mounting bracket, wherein the disc is spinnably coupled to the mounting bracket, the mounting bracket mountable to a pole or beam. The reflective portion creates high visibility at night. In one method of use, a prospective passenger approaches a spinnable indicator, and, when a bus or other transit unit is approaching, spins the spinnable indicator. The reflective portion on the front side of the spinnable indicator alerts the driver that a prospective passenger is waiting transit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2022
    Inventor: Fred Owen Davies
  • Patent number: 10214049
    Abstract: A vehicle wheel spinning device comprising a disk shaped housing having a front and back disk forming a cavity therein is disclosed. The front disk has a series of decorative apertures formed therein. A spinning disk is rotatably mounted within said cavity. Various visual effects are produced by providing on the surface of the spinning disk facing the front disk of said housing at least one section of a contrasting color to the remainder of the surface. When the spinning disk rotates the colors show through said apertures during rotation of the spinning ring. The spinning device is attached to the front of a vehicle wheel in a manner that the housing rotates with the wheel and the spinning disk rotates separately from the rotation of the housing and continues to rotate for a time after the wheel stops spinning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2019
    Inventor: Michael Todd Clark, II
  • Patent number: 10173462
    Abstract: The invention relates to a rim assembly for a vehicle having a rim having an axial inside facing the vehicle and an axial outside facing away from the vehicle, a rim flange designed on the axial outside of the rim, and a first groove designed in the rim. The first groove is arranged in the rim flange or axially outside of the rim flange, and a disc-shaped cover, which covers the axial outside of the rim. The radially outer edge of the cover inserts in the first groove and a first elastic element in the first groove clamps the radial outside edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2019
    Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Sebastian Gielisch, Robert Loch
  • Patent number: 10046596
    Abstract: An image board for a rotary wheel which is mounted on a rotary wheel of a vehicle and displays a stationary image regardless of the rotation of the rotary wheel, the image board including: a base plate which is uprightly arranged on the outer portion or the inside of a wheel frame provided on the rotary wheel and mounted to be independently rotatable with respect to the wheel frame, and on one side or both sides of which a predetermined image is arranged, the base plate including a chamber on which a space is formed to be extended along the circumferential direction with respect to a rotational axis; a main weight which is fixedly mounted on the bottom of the base plate and applies a load to the bottom of the base plate; and a compensation weight which moves within the space as the main weight rotates in any direction and applies a load to the main weight so that the main weight returns to the original position thereof, the compensation weight being arranged within the space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2018
    Assignee: MIRYOON W&T CORPORATION
    Inventors: Chung Sup Yoo, Yoon Hwa Kim, In Sung Oh, Sung Sug Ryu, Sung Hun Kim
  • Patent number: 9555665
    Abstract: A bicycle wheel spinner which is quickly and easily released from a hub and has an inner ring formed segments, with blades protruding from each segment. The segments each mount a roller wheel riding in a groove in a supporting hub. The segments are releasably fixed together in the groove. The spinner can be quickly removed by disassembling the inner ring segments. A locking mechanism allows the spinner to be locked to the hub or released to rotate independently.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Inventor: Michael Burton
  • Patent number: 9365073
    Abstract: A vehicle wheel includes a wheel body and a plurality of rim blades. The plurality of rim blades is coupled to at least one side surface of the wheel body. Each of the rim blades is provided with at least one airflow guide section and at least one airflow-assisting section. The airflow guide section and the airflow-assisting section are arranged in the form of front and rear series on the rim blade. When the vehicle wheel is coupled with a tire, the airflow guide section is located at the side of the rim blade facing a forwarding direction of rotation of the wheel and the airflow-assisting section is located at the side of the rim blade opposite to the forwarding rotation of the wheels. As such, airflow is increased, wind resistance is reduced, and noise is reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Inventor: Kuan-Ting Chen
  • Patent number: 9365075
    Abstract: A wheel rim cover assembly for use with a vehicle wheel rim is provided. The wheel rim cover assembly comprises a rim cover element, a rotating element, and a controller element. The rotating element comprises at least one blade that is rotatable in speed and moves in a direction independent from the rotation of the vehicle wheel rim to which it is attached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Inventor: Charles E. Holloway, II
  • Patent number: 9327550
    Abstract: Aerodynamic wheel covers may include a hub assembly coupled with a hub of a large vehicle, such as a truck. A base assembly may be coupled to the hub assembly, and a disk assembly may be coupled with the base assembly such that removal and installation of the disk assembly may be accomplished without tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2016
    Assignee: FlowBelow Aero, Inc.
    Inventors: Joshua Butler, Kyle Walker
  • Publication number: 20150069820
    Abstract: A bicycle wheel spinner which is quickly and easily released from a hub and has an inner ring formed segments, with blades protruding from each segment. The segments each mount a roller wheel riding in a groove in a supporting hub. The segments are releasably fixed together in the groove. The spinner can be quickly removed by disassembling the inner ring segments. A locking mechanism allows the spinner to be locked to the hub or released to rotate independently.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2014
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Inventor: Michael Burton
  • Publication number: 20150021975
    Abstract: A vehicle wheel spinning device comprising a ring shaped housing having a front and back ring forming a cavity therein is disclosed. The front ring has a series of decorative apertures formed therein. A spinning ring is rotatably mounted within said cavity. Various visual effects are produced by providing on the surface of the spinning ring facing the front ring of said housing at least one section of a contrasting color to the remainder of the surface. When the spinning ring rotates the colors show through said apertures during rotation of the spinning ring. The spinning device is attached to the front of a vehicle wheel in a manner that the housing rotates with the wheel and the spinning ring rotates separately from the rotation of the housing and continues to rotate for a time after the wheel stops rotating.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2014
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Inventor: Michael Todd Clark, II
  • Patent number: 8882205
    Abstract: A vehicle wheel spinner comprising a donut shaped housing having a front and back ring forming a cavity therein. The front ring has a series of apertures formed therein. A spinning ring is rotatably mounted within said cavity. Various visual effects are produced by providing on the surface of the spinning ring facing the front ring of said housing at least one section of a contrasting color to the remainder of the surface. When the spinning ring rotates the colors show through said aperture(s) during rotation of the spinning ring. The wheel spinner is attached to the vehicle wheel in a manner that the housing rotates with the wheel and the spinning ring rotates separately from the rotation of the housing and continues to rotate for a time after the wheel stops rotating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Inventor: Michael Todd Clark, II
  • Publication number: 20140239701
    Abstract: A non frictional wheel enhancing assembly that utilizes bolts and lubricated joints to attach to a wheel, remains level and independent of the wheel as the wheel revolves, inhibits friction and heat between the wheel and a wheel cover, and aesthetically enhances the wheel without covering the perimeter of the wheel. The wheel assembly includes an attachment surface with three extending bolts that press outwardly, against an inner circumference of a wheel hub to create pressure and grip for attaching the wheel cover with the wheel. The wheel cover also secures to the wheel through numerous lubricated joints, adapters, and fasteners. The lubricated joints facilitate revolution of the wheel cover to minimize friction between the wheel and the wheel cover, and improve fuel efficiency for the vehicle. The wheel cover displays decorative indicia. A counterweight allows the wheel cover to remain level and revolve independently of the wheel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2013
    Publication date: August 28, 2014
    Inventor: Andres Velez
  • Patent number: 8632135
    Abstract: A wheel has a hub, a rim, first and second supports supporting the rim around the hub, and a spinner rotatably mounted around the hub between the first and second supports. A spinner locking mechanism may be used to selectively lock the spinner to prevent rotation of the spinner with respect to the first and second supports, or unlock the spinner to allow rotation of the spinner relative to the first and second supports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Inventors: James K. Miansian, Patrick Vogel
  • Publication number: 20130328381
    Abstract: A wheel rim cover assembly for use with a vehicle wheel rim is provided. The wheel rim cover assembly comprises a rim cover element, a rotating element, and a controller element. The rotating element comprises at least one blade that is rotatable in speed and moves in a direction independent from the rotation of the vehicle wheel rim to which it is attached.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2013
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Inventor: Charles E. Holloway, II
  • Publication number: 20130328380
    Abstract: There is described a spinning hub cap assembly comprising: a base section connectable on its inside to the end face of the wheel center hub and on its outside to an outer section; and an outer section rotatably connected to the base section, wherein the rotatable connection permits rotation of the outer section about the wheel axis of rotation. The outer section may further comprises an outer face and an inner face, wherein the inner face further comprises a bearing mounted thereon on a bearing mount; wherein the base section outside further comprises a receiving well for receiving the bearing in mated, attached relationship. The assembly may further comprise a retention shaft employed to retain together, in rotational relationship, the outer section and the base section. In another embodiment, the base section further comprises a rotational assembly on its outside which is fixably connectable to the cap outer section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2012
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Inventor: Lyvon J. Davis
  • Patent number: 8517474
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a non-rotating wheel cap device which is inserted at the center of a wheel rim using fixtures; wherein such cap is used to display printed or adhered decorations; and wherein such decorations remain stationary in an upright position, while the rim is rotating. The preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises a non-rotating wheel cap device comprising a cylindrical body having a shaft, a roller bearing adapted to receive the shaft in a press-fit configuration, a curved body and a disk-shaped cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Inventor: Mazen Yousef Falah Salah
  • Publication number: 20130175850
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a wheel cover structure for a vehicle, comprising: a wheel cover arranged over a front surface of a vehicle wheel; a rotation support unit interposed between the vehicle wheel and the wheel cover to support the wheel cover such that the vehicle wheel is maintained in a decelerated rotating state; a rotating case which is fixed at a front surface of the wheel cover, and which stores a fluid therein; a floating plate which is equipped with an air container for providing floating force in order to maintain the floating plate at a constant position during travel, and which is rotatably supported within the rotating case; and a plate including a design, arranged on a front surface of the rotating case, supported at the floating plate, and having a picture or a design printed thereon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2010
    Publication date: July 11, 2013
    Inventor: Choung Sub Ryu
  • Publication number: 20130076106
    Abstract: A non-rotating wheel cover assembly (1) that attaches to a wheel via an universal lug mounting bracket (2). The universal lug mounting bracket is made up of a preferably circular mounting plate (4) having a plurality of slots (24) extending from a central aperture (14) to an outer edge (35) of the mounting plate. The slots are positioned around the mounting plate to accommodate various lug patterns, such as wheels having five lugs (3) or six lugs. The slots also accommodate wheels having various diameters where the lugs are spaced further or closer to the center of a wheel. An inner plate (10) having a bearing (17) located therein engages an axle (18) extending from an outer plate (20). A ridge (23) located at a base (24) of the axle prevents damage to a wheel cover (8) if the wheel cover comes into contact with a curb.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2011
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Inventors: Thomas J. Mooney, William J. Brown
  • Publication number: 20130076105
    Abstract: A hubcap with ornament includes a covering member for mounting to an outer side of a wheel rim on a car; a connecting unit fixedly connected to one face of the covering member; and an ornament movably connected to the connecting unit. When the covering member of the hubcap rotates along with the wheel rim, the ornament, even if it is in a slightly vibrating state, can maintain its original position without rotating along with the covering member and the wheel rim, and can therefore clearly show its beautiful appearance all the time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2011
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Inventor: CHIEN-MING HUNG
  • Patent number: 8382209
    Abstract: A rotary wheel cap includes a fixed base fixed to a center of a wheel, a rotary cover axially mounted onto the fixed base, and an elastic member installed between the fixed base and rotary cover. When the wheel rotates, the rotary cover compresses the elastic member to a first position to form a positioning relationship with the fixed base, such that the rotary cover is rotated with the wheel and fixed base at the first position. When the wheel is still, the rotary cover is supported by the elastic member at a second position to release the positioning relationship with the fixed base. The rotary cover is rotated axially with respect to the fixed base by gravitation of a weight balancing portion at the second position. A design pattern on the rotary cover is aligned correctly by the axial rotation of the rotary cover when the wheel is still.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Inventor: Chih-Hao Yin
  • Publication number: 20120319459
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a non-rotating wheel cap which is inserted at the center of a wheel rim using fixtures; wherein such cap is used to display printed or adhered decorations; and wherein such decorations remain stationary in an upright position, while the rim is rotating. The preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises: a plurality of fixtures extending from the body of a hollow disk-shaped housing, a small shaft extending from the center of the housing body, a roller bearing; wherein such bearing is press-fitted into a semi-disk omega-shaped weight from one of its faces; wherein the opposite face of such semi-disk omega-shaped weight is engraved with small cylindrical holes; and wherein an outer disk-shaped cover is attached to such weight. The cap of the present invention is also simple in design, since it needs only one roller bearing and includes no bolts or adhesives.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2011
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Inventor: Mazen Yousef Falah Salah
  • Patent number: 8328294
    Abstract: An electrical control system for a rotatable wheel cover assembly is presented, the system including a controller assembly comprising processors for controlling the relative motion of a wheel cover rotatably mounted to a wheel frame of a vehicle. The controller assembly outputs a first signal to motor drivers, which are mounted within the vehicle separated from the wheel cover, the motor drivers passing a first drive frequency to motor leads for open loop control of the speed of the motors that drive the wheel cover. The electrical control system provides power from an inboard side of the wheel frame to an outboard side via a slip ring assembly having connector assemblies passing through the wheel frame for controlling motion of the wheel cover. The wheel cover is mounted to a shaft of the motor, wherein the motor is mounted coaxially with the wheel frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Altamotive, LLC
    Inventors: Brent Whitfield Byers, Nicholas Conway
  • Publication number: 20120286560
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a wheel cover which does not rotate and which is maintained stationary when a driving wheel of a vehicle rotates. The wheel cover for a vehicle according to the present invention comprises: a rotating member mounted on the driving wheel of the vehicle so as to rotate together with the driving wheel when the driving wheel rotates; a first fixing member which is connected to the rotating member such that the first fixing member is independently rotatable, and which is provided with a deceleration weight; and a second fixing member such that the second fixing member is independently rotatable, and which is provided with an advertisement unit. The first fixing member attenuates the rotating force being transferred to the second fixing member to thereby prevent the second fixing member from rotating during the rotation of the rotating member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2010
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Applicant: CS SOLUTION CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Kil Jeong Lee
  • Publication number: 20120223571
    Abstract: A vehicle wheel spinner comprising a donut shaped housing having a front and back ring forming a cavity therein. The front ring has a series of apertures formed therein. A spinning ring is rotatably mounted within said cavity. Various visual effects are produced by providing on the surface of the spinning ring facing the front ring of said housing at least one section of a contrasting color to the remainder of the surface. When the spinning ring rotates the colors show through said aperture(s) during rotation of the spinning ring. The wheel spinner is attached to the vehicle wheel in a manner that the housing rotates with the wheel and the spinning ring rotates separately from the rotation of the housing and continues to rotate for a time after the wheel stops rotating.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2012
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Inventor: Michael Todd Clark, II
  • Publication number: 20120056444
    Abstract: A wheel cover or panel assembly for use on a long haul truck is provided. These wheel covers can provide enhanced aerodynamic effects to a truck or other vehicle thereby reducing wind drag and enhancing fuel efficiency. Still further, the wheel covers can articulate or turn along with the steering by design.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 1, 2011
    Publication date: March 8, 2012
    Applicant: CVG MANAGEMENT CORPORATION
    Inventor: William E. Stimel
  • Publication number: 20110260524
    Abstract: A rotary wheel cap includes a fixed base fixed to a center of a wheel, a rotary cover axially mounted onto the fixed base, and an elastic member installed between the fixed base and rotary cover. When the wheel rotates, the rotary cover compresses the elastic member to a first position to form a positioning relationship with the fixed base, such that the rotary cover is rotated with the wheel and fixed base at the first position. When the wheel is still, the rotary cover is supported by the elastic member at a second position to release the positioning relationship with the fixed base. The rotary cover is rotated axially with respect to the fixed base by gravitation of a weight balancing portion at the second position. A design pattern on the rotary cover is aligned correctly by the axial rotation of the rotary cover when the wheel is still.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2010
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Inventor: Chih-Hao YIN
  • Patent number: 7988239
    Abstract: A wheel assembly includes a decorative member mounted on an outer race of a bearing carried in a holder with an inner race mounted on a spindle and secured by an attachment fastener. The bearing holder is carried on the spindle projecting from a coupler hub fixed to an axle cap secured to a vehicle axle hub. Set screw fasteners are employed to retain securement fasteners to the spindle and to retain the coupler hub fasteners with the axle cap. The wheel mounting assembly permits the movably mounted decorative member carried on the rotatable vehicle axle hub to remain static or to rotate while the wheel is turning as a vehicle travels along a roadway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Inventor: Scott Baker
  • Publication number: 20110156473
    Abstract: A wheel has a hub, a rim, first and second supports supporting the rim around the hub, and a spinner rotatably mounted around the hub between the first and second supports. A spinner locking mechanism may be used to selectively lock the spinner to prevent rotation of the spinner with respect to the first and second supports, or unlock the spinner to allow rotation of the spinner relative to the first and second supports.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2011
    Publication date: June 30, 2011
    Inventors: James K. Miansian, Patrick Vogel
  • Patent number: 7887143
    Abstract: An apparatus which allows for the counter rotation of a wheel accessory is disclosed. The apparatus is intended for mounting on a wheel of a vehicle. The apparatus has a base plate for attaching to the wheel, a transmission mechanism coupled to the base plate and a rotation prevention mount attached to the transmission mechanism. The transmission mechanism has an input shaft and an output shaft which extend in opposite directions from the transmission mechanism. The input shaft rotates in the direction of the vehicular wheel. The output shaft rotates counter to the vehicular wheel. A method for using a wheel accessory that rotates counter to the rotation of a vehicular wheel is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Inventors: Andrew C. Taylor, Reid Averill
  • Patent number: 7815261
    Abstract: A dual decorative assembly for a vehicle wheel combines an outer member and an inner member that are rotatably mounted on a rotatable wheel hub. Bearings carried on the inner and outer members support the members on the hub whereby the inner member may rotate in a clock-wise or counter clock-wise direction while the outer member employs weights so that the outer member remains stationary by gravitational force to downwardly depend from the bearings. The inner member includes a flared edging over-hanging the peripheral edge of the outer member. The outer member includes a variety of cut-outs and edge scalloping for decorative purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Inventor: Scott Baker
  • Patent number: 7806485
    Abstract: A vehicle wheel accessory includes a hub, a plurality of blades having ornamental designs on opposite surfaces thereof, a plurality of radially extending spokes, coupled to said hub by a hinged spoke coupler; a biasing device contained within each blade for biasing the blade toward said hub and yet permitting said blade to be pulled outwardly away from said hub, enabling each blade to be rotated about an associated spoke for causing a first design on a first side of a blade to be displaced by a second design on a second opposite side of said blade; and wherein a plurality of anti-rotation locking devices are coupled to said hub for preventing blade rotation when lower portions of associated blades remain seated therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: Three-L Group, Inc
    Inventors: Lloyd Nelson, Jack Rudder
  • Patent number: 7775540
    Abstract: The present invention describes a non-rotating bicycle wheel display assembly that remains absolutely upright in relation to the rotation of a bicycle wheel and in relation to a parked bicycle wheel. The invention consists of a pair of disk assemblies mounted to both sides of a conventional bicycle wheel and in turn, to the front and rear of a bicycle frame. The disk assemblies are manufactured of a light weight inexpensive material that is formed to the convex shape of an outer surface of the bicycle wheel and includes a bearing assembly made of a high density, self lubricating plastic. A plastic retaining mechanism is secured to an outer disk and a bicycle frame member to hold the outer disk in an upright position at all times whether the bicycle is in motion or stationary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Inventors: Scott James Young, Mark Eugene Young, Todd Harrison Hutcheson
  • Publication number: 20100195054
    Abstract: A device for selectively illuminating images on an auto wheel cap/spinner in a strobe-like fashion in order simulate an animated phenakistoscope which may be resident within the wheel-well of said automobile or implemented in a stand alone furnishing or piece of jewelry/clothing accessory.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2009
    Publication date: August 5, 2010
    Inventor: Marcus Gant
  • Patent number: 7726746
    Abstract: A hubcap device for use with a wheel includes a base and a fastener for coupling the base to the wheel. The hubcap device includes a spinner member between the base and the cover, the spinner member having a light element. The hubcap device includes a battery for powering the light element and a processor for actuating the light element. An insert is removably coupled to the cover, the spinner member being positioned between the insert and the base. The hubcap device may include a photocell in communication with the processor, the processor including programming to actuate the light element in predetermined light conditions. The device includes an optical sensor coupled to the spinner member to measure a rotational speed of the spinner member relative to a rotational speed of the base, the optical sensor providing a relative rotational speed measurement to said processor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Inventor: Martin C. Berens
  • Publication number: 20100038956
    Abstract: An electrical control system for a rotatable wheel cover assembly is presented, the system including a controller assembly comprising processors for controlling the relative motion of a wheel cover rotatably mounted to a wheel frame of a vehicle. The controller assembly outputs a first signal to motor drivers, which are mounted within the vehicle separated from the wheel cover, the motor drivers passing a first drive frequency to motor leads for open loop control of the speed of the motors that drive the wheel cover. The electrical control system provides power from an inboard side of the wheel frame to an outboard side via a slip ring assembly having connector assemblies passing through the wheel frame for controlling motion of the wheel cover. The wheel cover is mounted to a shaft of the motor, wherein the motor is mounted coaxially with the wheel frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2009
    Publication date: February 18, 2010
    Inventors: Brent Whitfield Byers, Nicholas Conway
  • Patent number: 7661766
    Abstract: A rim assembly comprises a rim including a peripheral rim portion for the mounting of a wheel; a wheel cover affixed to the rim and configured to rotate about an axis of the rim; and an oscillator attached to the wheel cover and configured to move back and forth between a first position and a second position based on rotation of the wheel cover about the axis. The oscillator is configured to protract axially away from the wheel cover when moving from the second position toward the first position and to retract axially toward the wheel cover when moving from the first position toward the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Inventors: Jon R. Davis, Ian D. Kovacevich, Chris Hoy, Daniel Lee Bizzell, Tom Philpott, Andrew Peeler, Andrew Donati
  • Patent number: 7628417
    Abstract: A wheel spinner assembly for mounting on a bicycle and enhancement of the bicycle's aesthetic features. The bicycle wheel spinner assembly is adapted for use on a bicycle wheel having an axle and a plurality of spokes, includes a hub assembly, an end cap member and a rotor. The end cap member is operatively connected to the hub assembly and configured to contact an axle of a bicycle wheel and the rotor is operatively connected to the hub assembly and extends radially outwardly therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Assignee: SpinnerZ, LLC
    Inventors: Chris Michael Will, Aaron Thomas Frankel, Anthony Joeseph Honerkamp
  • Patent number: 7568771
    Abstract: The objective of the present invention is to implement a wheel cap device including; a spindle (30) established in the centermost portion of a wire wheel cap (44) of a wire wheel; and a ornamental image (24) consisting of an aesthetic feature casted thereupon and mechanically joining with wire wheel cap (44) and encompassing a bearing assembly (32) and counterbalance (34); whereby upon wheel rotation to coordinately revolve spindle (30) fixed to wire wheel cap (44) ornamental image (24) will be situated vertically consistently relative to the rotation of the wire wheel and wire wheel cap (44) to thereby display ornamental image (24) plainly, and perceivably.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Inventor: Bruce Morris
  • Patent number: 7524093
    Abstract: The apparatus of the present invention is a customized non-rotatable decorative displaying image mechanism wheel assembly. The wheel assembly comprises a wheel mount supportable by of the wheel of a vehicle. A protective cover is affixed to the wheel mount to form a housing with an interior cavity therein. The display holder can be transparent or translucent with any image, logo, emblem, insignia or hologram covering affixed thereto. A display holder and member is positioned behind the protective covering within the cavity of the housing. The display holder is bolted with predefined weighted members and ball bearings such that the display holder and member remain stationary during within the interior cavity as the vehicle's wheel turns. Alternatively, predefined weighted members may not be used for certain design, since shaft members may stabilize image. The display member can be illuminated by a light source which is powered by an electromechanical power source utilizing the Faraday Effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2009
    Inventors: Ronald Sinnette, Patrick Massie
  • Patent number: 7503630
    Abstract: A wheel cover system comprising a first bearing element mountable to a vehicle's wheel or rim, and a second bearing element rotatable on the first element supportive of a wheel cover assembly that, when mounted to the vehicle, is non-symmetrical in appearance about a first vertical plane extending through the axis of rotation and containing the gravitational direction. The wheel cover itself is also non-symmetrical in shape and/or mass about a second plane extending through the pivot axis of the wheel cover and coincident with the first plane. Balance is provided by weights to the wheel cover on opposite sides of the second plane at differing radial distances from the center of rotation. The weights may differ in mass. In a currently preferred embodiment, the asymmetrical shape of a wheel cover is in the form of an indicium such as a number, alphabetic letter, abstract symbol, or combinations thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2009
    Inventor: James E. Chester, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20090058177
    Abstract: A hubcap device for use with a wheel includes a base and a fastener for coupling the base to the wheel. The hubcap device includes a spinner member between the base and the cover, the spinner member having a light element. The hubcap device includes a battery for powering the light element and a processor for actuating the light element. An insert is removably coupled to the cover, the spinner member being positioned between the insert and the base. The hubcap device may include a photocell in communication with the processor, the processor including programming to actuate the light element in predetermined light conditions. The device includes an optical sensor coupled to the spinner member to measure a rotational speed of the spinner member relative to a rotational speed of the base, the optical sensor providing a relative rotational speed measurement to said processor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2007
    Publication date: March 5, 2009
    Inventor: Martin C. Berens
  • Publication number: 20090008985
    Abstract: A dual decorative assembly for a vehicle wheel combines an outer member and an inner member that are rotatably mounted on a rotatable wheel hub. Bearings carried on the inner and outer members support the members on the hub whereby the inner member may rotate in a clock-wise or counter clock-wise direction while the outer member employs weights so that the outer member remains stationary by gravitational force to downwardly depend from the bearings. The inner member includes a flared edging over-hanging the peripheral edge of the outer member. The outer member includes a variety of cut-outs and edge scalloping for decorative purposes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2008
    Publication date: January 8, 2009
    Inventor: Scott Baker
  • Patent number: 7472967
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a selectively attachable wheel cover for a motor vehicle. The invention comprises a base member and a display member. The base member is selectively secured to the vehicle rim and the display member is rotatably mounted relative to the base member such that it can rotate in relation to the base member and, thus, the vehicle rim. In one aspect, a portion of the display member is sufficiently weighted such that, when the rim rotates (when the vehicle is in motion) the display member remains substantially static.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Assignee: Static Media Group, LLC
    Inventors: Anthony J. DoVale, Jr., Jeffrey Goodman, Robert Kaufman, Mark Jiang, Omar Williams
  • Patent number: 7472966
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a selectively attachable wheel cover for a motor vehicle. The invention comprises a base member, a shaft member, and a display member. The base member is secured to the rim of a motor vehicle. The shaft member is connected to an outer portion of the base member, extending substantially transverse from the rim and substantially co-linearly with the longitudinal axis of the axle. The display member is connected to the shaft member such that it can rotate in relation to the base member and, thus, the rim. A portion of the display member is sufficiently weighted such that, when the rim rotates (when the vehicle is in motion) the display member remains substantially static.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Assignee: Static Media Group, LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey Goodman, Mark J. Sampson, Anthony J. DoVale, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20080315673
    Abstract: An apparatus which allows for the counter rotation of a wheel accessory is disclosed. The apparatus is intended for mounting on a wheel of a vehicle. The apparatus has a base plate for attaching to the wheel, a transmission mechanism coupled to the base plate and a rotation prevention mount attached to the transmission mechanism. The transmission mechanism has an input shaft and an output shaft which extend in opposite directions from the transmission mechanism. The input shaft rotates in the direction of the vehicular wheel. The output shaft rotates counter to the vehicular wheel. A method for using a wheel accessory that rotates counter to the rotation of a vehicular wheel is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2008
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Inventors: Andrew C. Taylor, Reid Averill
  • Publication number: 20080309150
    Abstract: A novelty wheel cover assembly mounts on a corresponding rim of a vehicle wheel for displaying indicia while the wheel rotates and includes a solid disk member having an outside diameter less than that of the lip of the corresponding rim of a vehicle wheel, and a multiple-blade member with at least two substantially flat blades emanates from a central hub, wherein the central hub includes an axial spindle. A bearing assembly is imbedded at a center axis of the solid disk member and rotatably engages with the axial spindle with minimal friction. The multiple-blade member removably attaches to the corresponding rim of a vehicle wheel, and indicia decorate a portion of the outward-facing area of the solid disk assembly, which is inhibited from rotating by an outer edge weight on one side combined with the low-friction bearing assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2008
    Publication date: December 18, 2008
    Inventor: Lynn Edelman
  • Publication number: 20080272643
    Abstract: The present invention describes a non-rotating display bicycle wheel cover assembly that remains absolutely upright in relation to the rotation of the bicycle wheel and in relation to a parked bicycle wheel. The invention consists of twin disk assemblies mounted to both sides of a conventional bicycle wheel and inturn to the front and rear of a bicycle frame. The disk assemblies are manufactured of lightweight inexpensive material that is formed to the convex shape of the outer surface of a bicycle wheel and includes an overmolded, captive friction bearing made of a high density, self lubricating plastic. A plastic retaining mechanism is secured to the outer disk fascia and a bicycle frame member to hold the disk in an upright position at all times whether the bicycle is in motion or in repose.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2008
    Publication date: November 6, 2008
    Inventors: Scott James Young, Mark Eugene Young, Todd Harrison Hutcheson
  • Publication number: 20080272642
    Abstract: An positionally stable wheel cover for displaying a design while a wheel is rotating. The wheel cover is mounted on the rim of a wheel through a mounting wire and a support bracket is mounted on the mounting wire. The support bracket is equipped with an internal base with a hollow hub into which another hub of an external base with a bearing mounted is inserted. The external base is able to rotating independently from the internal base and from the support bracket. A display cover is mounted on the external base and a design can then be placed on the display cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2007
    Publication date: November 6, 2008
    Inventors: Leslie Hsiao, G.C. M. de Jong
  • Patent number: 7427110
    Abstract: A wheel has a first support having a first axis, a second support having a second axis, a rim having a third axis, and a spinner assembly having a fourth axis. The first and second supports support the rim, and the spinner assembly is rotatably mounted between the first and second supports, such that the first, second, third, and fourth axes are aligned. The wheel further includes a spinner locking mechanism for locking the spinner assembly with the first and/or second supports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2008
    Inventors: James K. Miansian, Patrick Vogel