Bicycle Or Motorcycle Patents (Class 434/61)
  • Patent number: 11858581
    Abstract: A detecting device is provided for detecting a condition of a bicycle crank assembly including a bicycle crank provided to a bicycle frame. The detecting device includes an electronic controller. The electronic controller is configured to obtain information relating to an image of the crank. The electronic controller is configured to determine an angle of the crank based on the information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2024
    Assignee: Shimano Inc.
    Inventors: Yuji Izuru, Kenta Kawakami, Noriyuki Kai, Mao Kuroda, Yuuka Miyanaga
  • Patent number: 11830382
    Abstract: A pilot training system includes a training terminal integrated with a pilot training seat with a seat pan having six degrees of freedom, wherein the training terminal is configured to exclusively provide and render a simulated flight-training environment and to output control signals to synchronize movement of the seat pan with the simulated environment. The system is transportable so that it can be used to provide flight training at a user-selected and repositionable location. The system also may include an instructor terminal located at an instructor site. The training site and the instructor site can be remotely located. The instructor may provide remote instruction or training to a trainee, for example by sending instruction inputs to the training terminal over the network in order to control aspects of the simulated environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2023
    Assignee: Access Virtual, LLC
    Inventors: Paul Liberatore, David Urchek
  • Patent number: 11772614
    Abstract: A drive assistance device (24) for a saddle type vehicle (1) includes a ride sensor (37) configured to detect a ride attitude of a rider (J), a vehicle body behavior generating part (25) configured to generate a behavior on a vehicle body by a prescribed output, and a controller (27) configured to control driving of the vehicle body behavior generating part (25), the vehicle body behavior generating part (25) includes a brake device (BR) configured to brake a host vehicle, and wherein, when the brake device (BR) is actuated regardless of an operation of the rider (J), the controller (27) actuates the brake device (BR) according to the ride attitude of the rider (J) detected by the ride sensor (37).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2023
    Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Tsubasa Nose, Tsutomu Tamashima, Kiyotaka Sakai, Hiroaki Uchisasai, Yuta Kanbe
  • Patent number: 11547922
    Abstract: The exercise machine having integrated video gaming system comprises a frame, a seat, pedals, a steering assembly, a display screen, and a controller. The exercise machine having integrated video gaming system may be a device adapted to be used by a user while exercising and may encourage the user to move in a manner that strengthens muscles, increases lung capacity, increases metabolism, or combinations thereof. The seat may be adapted for the user to sit upon while pedaling the pedals. The steering assembly may be adapted to be held and moved by the user while exercising. The display screen may be adapted to present still or moving images to the user while the user exercises. The display screen, the steering assembly, the pedals, or combinations thereof may be operable to interact with the controller as a gaming system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2023
    Inventor: Martin Tillman
  • Patent number: 11479253
    Abstract: An automobile including an exercise apparatus for use by the driver while driving is described. The apparatus may integrate the user's exercise performance into control of the vehicle's speed, acceleration and braking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2022
    Inventor: Matthew E. Jenkins
  • Patent number: 11322039
    Abstract: An apparatus to simulate driving a motorcycle includes a support base, a support body provided with a driving position on which a driver can take his place, and with command members configured to supply driving commands, a first movement unit connected to the support body and to the support base and configured to move the support body in space as a function of the driving signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2022
    Assignee: VI-GRADE GMBH
    Inventor: Diego Minen
  • Patent number: 11263917
    Abstract: A motion simulator for imposing loads on an occupant, the simulator having: a movable carrier for supporting the occupant; a first drive mechanism for moving the carrier; multiple loading elements configured for attachment to the occupant when the occupant is supported by the carrier; a second drive mechanism for actuating the loading elements to apply loads to the occupant; and a controller, the controller being configured to implement a simulation of a motion event by: (i) estimating a motion of the carrier consistent with the motion event and controlling the first drive mechanism to cause the carrier to adopt the estimated motion; (ii) estimating a first load on the occupant consistent with the motion event; (iii) estimating a second load on the occupant due to the motion adopted by the carrier and (iv) controlling the second drive mechanism to cause the second drive mechanism to apply to the occupant a load that is the difference between the first estimated load and the second estimated load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2022
    Assignee: McClaren Applied Limited
    Inventor: Caleb Allan Sawade
  • Patent number: 11235199
    Abstract: An apparatus permitting a user to perform a simulated bicycling exercise is provided. The apparatus includes a frame, a first upper rear mounting point and a second lower front mounting point configured to maintain the frame, the first upper rear mounting point having an upper rear movable rotating joint, a seat connected to the frame and configured to support the user in a forward facing orientation, a wheel positioned in association with the frame, a set of pedals configured to interact with the wheel, a stem passing through the head tube, and a connection arrangement connecting the stem to a base. The frame is configured to pivot about the first upper rear mounting point and second lower front mounting point in response to leaning by the user, causing rotation of the stem by the connection arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2022
    Assignee: Real Ryder, LLC
    Inventors: Colin Irving, John J. Harrington, Brian C. Stewart, Michael S. Lofgren
  • Patent number: 11192022
    Abstract: An improved virtual reality system comprises a chair 110 integrated with a pedestal 120, which contains a motion platform 150 and base 160. The chair 110 can be rotated continuously in the yaw axis by a stepper motor 230 and substantially in the pitch axis by an additional stepper motor 240 in coordination with the content of the VR display as directed by a chair controller located on the motion platform 150.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2021
    Assignee: POSITRON VOYAGER, INC.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Travis, Jennifer Rundell, Ricardo Ruiz-Torres, Mehul Dilip Sati Kunvar
  • Patent number: 11090542
    Abstract: A system and method for controlling an exercise device are provided herein. The system includes a memory having computer-executable instructions and at least one processor to execute the computer-executable instructions to wirelessly connect the exercise device, receive a training mode, receive at least one variable for determining a power set point, determine the power set point responsive to the training mode and the at least one variable and control a magnetic brake assembly in the exercise device responsive to the power set point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2021
    Assignee: Wahoo Fitness LLC
    Inventors: Harold M. Hawkins, III, Michael A. Lyle, Bradley Jaymes Collins
  • Patent number: 11065505
    Abstract: Method for operating a bicycle trainer, and such a bicycle trainer comprising a stand with a seat, handlebars and rotatable pedals, or such a bicycle trainer comprising a stand for mounting a bicycle frame with a seat, handlebars and rotatable pedals, wherein the stand incorporates an electronically variable brake acting directly or indirectly on the rotatable pedals with a braking resistance that depends on a computer-controlled predetermined setting, wherein the pre-determined setting is variable and wherein said setting depends on selected parameters to reflect a simulated surface condition of a road.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2021
    Assignee: Tacx B.V.
    Inventor: Martin Smits
  • Patent number: 10994216
    Abstract: Methods and systems for simulating motion in a virtual reality system without external motors or similar machinery are described herein. A mechanical seat may be mounted to a base such that the seat is moveable in at least two dimensions (e.g., roll and pitch). A human occupant of the seat may use a control yoke fixed in relation to the base to cause the chair to move in a direction opposite of the force exerted on the control yoke. An extended reality (XR) motion controller may be mounted in a fixed relationship to the seat. Motion may then be simulated in an XR environment by depicting acceleration that would yield a similar experience on the user's vestibular senses as gravity exerts on the user's vestibular senses based on motion of the seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2021
    Assignee: Board Media Group LLC
    Inventor: David Board
  • Patent number: 10703437
    Abstract: An electronic power control assembly for a bicycle electronic device, a system having the same, and a control method thereof are disclosed. The electronic power control assembly is adapted to be electrically connected to a power source and a control module for controlling at least one electronic device on a bicycle to operate and includes a sensing unit for sensing a motion state of the bicycle, a first timing unit adapted to count a first predetermined time period, and a first control unit. When the sensing unit senses that the bicycle is in a moving state, the first control unit controls the first timing unit to recount and controls the power source to supply electricity to the control module. When the first timing unit finishes counting the first predetermined time period, the first control unit controls the power source to stop supplying electricity to the control module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2020
    Assignee: TIEN INDUSTRIES CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Vince Tsai
  • Patent number: 10617908
    Abstract: A swingable exercise bike includes a base having with a pivot portion for pivoting a bike body to swing left and right relative to the base. Left and right sides of the pivot portion are provided with cushion devices, respectively. The cushion devices are connected to the bike body and provide a horizontal cushioning resistance when the bike body swings left and right, thereby ensuring stable support of the bike body and improving safety in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2020
    Assignee: BH Asia Ltd.
    Inventor: Fu Hai Lin
  • Patent number: 10493320
    Abstract: An exercise assembly for physical therapy and rehabilitation includes a bicycle and a treadmill. The bicycle has a pair of front forks. The treadmill has a belt that is configured to rotate. A coupler is coupled to the treadmill. The coupler is configured to couple to the front forks. The coupler is positioned to reversibly couple to the front forks to couple the bicycle to the treadmill such that a rear wheel of the bicycle is positioned on the belt. The belt is positioned to rotate the rear wheel such that rotary motion is transferred through a pair of pedals of the bicycle to legs of a user who is positioned on the bicycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2019
    Inventor: Anant Porwal
  • Patent number: 10417930
    Abstract: A vehicle driving simulator includes a chassis having two rotatable drums mounted therein, mechanically connected together, and configured to engage wheels of a motorcycle mounted on the chassis. A tilting yoke mechanism is attached to the chassis and includes a substantially rigid frame and a substantially rigid attachment bracket attached to the motorcycle and pivotally attached to the frame. A resistance device is attached between the attachment bracket and the frame, and a tilt sensor is attached to the frame of the tilting yoke mechanism. A pressure sensor may be mounted to a handlebar of the motorcycle and operably connected to a vehicle driving simulator controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2019
    Assignee: Techlusion Corporation
    Inventor: Jacob L. Fraser
  • Patent number: 10337936
    Abstract: A dynamometer includes a dynamometer chassis configured to support a vehicle thereon. A roller load test unit is mounted in a load supporting surface of the dynamometer chassis, and a chassis to chassis load measurement device is attached between the dynamometer chassis and a chassis of the vehicle positioned on the dynamometer chassis. A load sensing mechanism is attached within the chassis to chassis load measurement device between the dynamometer chassis and the chassis of the vehicle supported on the dynamometer chassis such that a longitudinal axis of the vehicle extends therethrough, and the load sensing mechanism is configured to measure force in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2019
    Assignee: Techlusion Corporation
    Inventor: Kyndra A. Nevin
  • Patent number: 10112098
    Abstract: A bicycle trainer for removably loading a bicycle with at least a back wheel, where the bicycle trainer comprises a floorstanding frame with a wheel supporting roller at a rear end and a fork supporting unit at a front end, wherein the fork supporting unit is pivotally supported by the floorstanding frame enabling the fork supporting unit to move, where the fork supporting unit and the floorstanding frame connect to each other with a hinge enabling movement of the fork supporting unit in a longitudinal direction of the floorstanding frame, wherein the fork supporting unit is spring-loaded with a spring at or near the hinge to provide the fork supporting unit with a preferential upright position at right angles with the floorstanding frame such that whenever the bicycle is moved, said bicycle returns to an average position on the bicycle trainer with the fork support unit perpendicular to the floorstanding frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2018
    Assignee: Tacx roerend en onroerend goed B.V.
    Inventor: Martin Smits
  • Patent number: 10105574
    Abstract: Technologies for generating user-specific workout plans and tracking a user's progress are disclosed. The user-specific workout plan may be based on a user's goal and the particular workout facility to be used by the user. During performance of the user-specific workout by the user, the user is provided with workout data regarding the user's performance. Such workout data may be based on sensor data generated by sensors of the exercise machine used by the user and/or other sensors carried or worn by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2018
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventors: Tomer Rider, Igor Tatourian, Shahar Taite
  • Patent number: 10039954
    Abstract: A spinning bike with swingable structure includes a frame, a base member, and a limiting assembly. A mount of the limiting assembly is disposed on the frame, and two supporting bars of the limiting assembly are disposed at two sides of the mount and standing vertically. An adjustable member is adapted to adjust the two supporting bars to move downwardly until bottom ends of the supporting bars are in contact with the base member, so that the frame is not swingable with respect to the base member. Alternatively, the adjustable member adjusts the two supporting bars to move upwardly until the bottom ends are not in contact with the base member, so that the frame is swingable with respect to the base member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2018
    Assignee: BH Asia Hong Kong Holding Co., Limited
    Inventor: Chia Lin Tung
  • Patent number: 10029172
    Abstract: A system configured to be coupled with a participant of an activity. The system comprises: a participant activity monitoring unit configured for monitoring a performance of the activity by the participant; an activity information module configured for storing performance information corresponding to the activity; and a participant performance correlator configured for delivering comparative performance data based on the monitored performance of the activity by the participant and the stored performance information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2018
    Assignee: Fox Factory, Inc.
    Inventors: Mario Galasso, Wesley E. Allinger, David M. Haugen, Robert David Kaswen, Mark Stephen Fitzsimmons
  • Patent number: 10004940
    Abstract: A training bicycle, including a first frame (1, 36) configured to be supported on a floor, a second frame (2, 37) connected to the first frame, the second frame including an axle (4) allowing the second frame to tilt relative to the first frame along an axis in the longitudinal direction of the training apparatus, a handlebar (12, 35, 77, 90) connected to the upper end of a steering shaft (11, 76), the steering shaft being rotationally connected to the second frame, a crank (26, 110) connected to the second frame, and a first flywheel (22, 41, 56, 167, 193) rotationally connected to the lower end of said steering shaft with means for transferring movement from the crank to the first flywheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2018
    Assignee: Activetainment AS
    Inventor: Ziad Badarneh
  • Patent number: 9884237
    Abstract: A bicycle trainer includes a base frame including a first pivot connection part, a damper unit mounted at the base frame, a support frame including a locating portion and a second pivot connection part, which is pivotally connected to the first pivot connection part of the base frame for enabling the support frame to be biased relative to the base frame in direction away from or toward the damper unit such that when the support frame is held in an inclined position relative to the base frame, the locating portion and the damper unit can hold a wheel of a bicycle in place, and a non-return unit mounted at the base frame or support frame and adapted to prohibit the support frame from being biased in direction away from the base frame. The invention enables the support frame to be constrained by the non-return unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2018
    Assignee: Giant Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chih-Kai Wang, Wen-Hai Lo
  • Patent number: 9839810
    Abstract: A fitness machine with continuously variable magnetic-controlled damping force and combined with a manual emergency brake includes a fitness bike, a console, a magnetically controlled damping device and a resistance and brake control device. The fitness bike generates and supplies power to the console, magnetically controlled damping device and resistance and brake control device by a rotating flywheel. The magnetically controlled damping device produces continuously variable electromagnetic damping force to the flywheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2017
    Inventor: Yuan-Kwei Tzeng
  • Patent number: 9728044
    Abstract: A gaming machine having a display that displays a determined screen including a character, during execution of a game, a touch panel sensor, disposed above the display, that is capable of detecting the contact position, the position of the character contacted by a player, and a CPU that determines the contact position of the character as well as the contact mode, and that displays an image on the display, that is changed based on the result of this determination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2017
    Assignee: UNIVERSAL ENTERTAINMENT CORPORATION
    Inventors: Kazuo Okada, Hirobumi Toyoda
  • Patent number: 9561419
    Abstract: A bicycle trainer includes a body having two spaced positioning portions for supporting the wheel axle of a bicycle wheel, a damper unit for giving a damping resistance to the bicycle wheel, and a holding fixture mounted at the two positioning portions of the body for securing the bicycle wheel in a non-coaxial manner relative to the axial direction of the wheel axle. Thus, the invention can conveniently, rapidly and steadily secure the bicycle wheel in position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2017
    Assignee: GIANT MANUFACTURING CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Wen-Hai Lo
  • Patent number: 9402578
    Abstract: A crank angle indicating system is provided for a pedaling device. The crank angle indicating system may include a crank angle detector configured to detect a crank angle of a crankshaft of a pedaling device, and an indication device configured to output at least one of an aural and a haptic indicator when a predetermined crank angle is reached, allowing a cyclist to time the application or release of force to the pedals accordingly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2016
    Assignee: Shimano Inc.
    Inventor: Toshio Tetsuka
  • Patent number: 9108694
    Abstract: A bicycle fitting method for producing a bicycle is provided. The method includes the steps of receiving a bicycle riding information and a body measurement corresponding to a cyclist. According to the bicycle riding information, a bicycle model is provided. According to the body measurement and the selected bicycle model, a bicycle frame size and a set of bicycle geometric adjustment parameters are provided. According to the bicycle model, the bicycle frame size, and the set of bicycle geometric adjustment parameters, a bicycle which fits the cyclist is produced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2015
    Assignee: Giant Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chien-Hung Chen, Wei-Chieh Ho
  • Publication number: 20140315157
    Abstract: Some embodiments provide a hydraulically assisted stationary motorcycle training device for teaching motorcycle riding skills in a controlled and supervised environment. In some embodiments, the stationary motorcycle training device includes a set of equipment for responding to operations of a motorcycle positioned on the stationary motorcycle training device. In some embodiments, the stationary motorcycle training device is hydraulically assisted for simulating a motorcycle riding experience to a person seated on the motorcycle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2013
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Inventors: PAUL MICHAEL BOBER, DAVID M. DUNCAN
  • Publication number: 20140186803
    Abstract: The teachings provided herein relate to an articulable crankset for converting a pedal-powered vehicle into a push-powered vehicle having the articulable crankset in a retracted position to provide at least less of an obstruction to a user's legs during use of the push-powered vehicle than a non-retractable crankset. The vehicle can be a bicycle, and the articulable crankset can be a component of a production bicycle or a component of a conversion kit that will convert a bicycle from a pedal-powered bicycle to a convertible bicycle that can also function as a push-powered bicycle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2014
    Publication date: July 3, 2014
    Applicant: Kroozn, LLC
    Inventors: BRIAN Kinting SHIU, Vanessa Chen-Hwa Shiu
  • Patent number: 8706317
    Abstract: A data processing method for determining the drift values of at least one tire comprising, for various positions of the vehicle on a track, determining coordinates of GPS antennas, determining values of roll of the vehicle, determining various points of contact between tire and track based on coordinates of at least one GPS antenna and based on various values of roll of the vehicle, said contact points defining a trajectory of the tire on the track; determining a tangent to the trajectory of the tire at at least one contact point, determining, based on coordinates of the GPS antenna, an orientation of a wheel plane associated with the tire, and determining a drift value based on the tangent and on the orientation of the wheel plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignees: Compagnie Generale des Etablissements Michelin, Michelin Recherche et Technique S.A.
    Inventor: Denis Martin
  • Patent number: 8454366
    Abstract: An actuated support frame for transmitting motion to a seat with respect to a ground as a function of motion signals associated with video output, comprises a frame. The frame is expandable/retractable along translational degrees of freedom. Support surfaces are provided on the frame. The support surfaces are displaceable with respect to one another by expansion/retraction of the frame so as to be sized to support a seat. Actuators are provided between the frame and the ground. The actuators receive signals and selectively displace the frame with respect to the ground in synchronization with a video output, whereby a seat supported on the frame is displaceable within the frame. A method for installing a seating system of a motion simulator system is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: D-Box Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: Gauthier Orban, Michel Bérubé, Philippe Roy
  • Publication number: 20130115577
    Abstract: A bicycle training aid may teach children and toddlers how to ride a bike with light assistance from a trainer. With conventional bicycle training methods, a user must hold onto the bicycle to help balance the rider, which may be tiring or may cause back pain. With the bicycle trainer of the present invention, the trainer may hold onto a handle that is readily attached to the bicycle. The handle may be used to balance the bicycle while the rider learns to provide their own balance and control of the bicycle. The bicycle trainer may be easily removed from the bicycle for convenient storage and transport.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventor: Lionnell Donnell
  • Patent number: 8414299
    Abstract: A vehicle simulation system equipped to display information on the rear side of a driver (rider). The simulation system includes a dummy bicycle operated by the rider, a monitor on the front side for displaying a scene based on the operations of the dummy bicycle, and a lamp unit connected to the dummy bicycle and provided on the rear side relative to the seated position of the rider. The lamp unit has a red lamp, a yellow lamp and a green lamp, and is controlledly turned ON under the action of a main control unit. An input device is provided on a steering handle of the dummy bicycle. The input device has a switch for red, a switch for yellow, and a switch for green. The rider checks behind, and operates the input device according to the ON/OFF conditions of the lamp unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Sadanao Ichimi, Yukio Miyamaru
  • Patent number: 8408911
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and a method for using the apparatus for safely training a motorcycle rider to perform a wheelie, either while moving or while stationary. The apparatus provides a safety system which prevents the motorcycle from tipping over backwards or sideways.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Inventor: Steven Gray
  • Patent number: 8408910
    Abstract: An activity device including an activity sensor for generating an activity interaction signal responsive to a sustained large-muscle physical activity of a user operating the activity device; a controller, coupled to the activity monitor, generating a virtual environment supporting a virtual user frame-of-reference in the virtual environment, the controller generating a set of virtual education elements in the environment and a goal for the set virtual representation with respect to the virtual education elements wherein the controller is responsive to the activity interaction signal to produce an affected interaction of the virtual representation with the virtual education elements with the controller measuring a conformation of the goal by the affected interaction; and a feedback system, coupled to the controller, for presenting the virtual environment with the frame-of-reference in relation to the virtual education elements for providing the user with feedback.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Inventor: H. Christian Hölljes
  • Patent number: 8123527
    Abstract: An activity device including an activity sensor generating an activity interaction signal responsive to a sustained large-muscle physical activity of a user operating the activity device; a controller, coupled to the activity monitor, generating a virtual environment supporting a virtual user frame-of-reference in the virtual environment, the controller generating a set of virtual education elements in the environment and a goal for the set virtual representation with respect to the virtual education elements wherein the controller is responsive to the activity interaction signal to produce an affected interaction of the virtual representation with the virtual education elements with the controller measuring a conformation of the goal by the affected interaction; and a feedback system, coupled to the controller, presenting the virtual environment with the frame-of-reference in relation to the virtual education elements providing the user with feedback regarding the goal and the conformation of the goal by the
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Inventor: H. Christian Hölljes
  • Patent number: 8109830
    Abstract: A driving simulation device for executing a simulating game includes a mounting frame and a seat body. The seat body has a coupling portion and a seating portion located above the coupling portion. The seat body further includes first and second connecting rods having at least two fixing parts journaled to the mounting frame, two swinging parts journaled to the coupling portion of the seat body and two coupling parts interconnecting the fixing parts and the swinging parts and transversely crossing each other. Once a rider is seated on the seating portion and swings the seat body so as to simulate a driving action, the seating portion and the coupling portion swing respectively in two directions opposite to each other, and thereby a swinging center of the seat body can fall between the coupling portion and the seating portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignee: International Games System Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Li-Hsien Chang, Chi-Shian Wang
  • Patent number: 8033830
    Abstract: A vehicle simulation system equipped to display information on the rear side of a driver (rider). The simulation system includes a dummy bicycle operated by the rider, a monitor on the front side for displaying a scene based on the operations of the dummy bicycle, and a lamp unit connected to the dummy bicycle and provided on the rear side relative to the seated position of the rider. The lamp unit has a red lamp, a yellow lamp and a green lamp, and is controlledly turned ON under the action of a main control unit. An input device is provided on a steering handle of the dummy bicycle. The input device has a switch for red, a switch for yellow, and a switch for green. The rider checks behind, and operates the input device according to the ON/OFF conditions of the lamp unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Sadanao Ichimi, Yukio Miyamaru
  • Patent number: 8029287
    Abstract: A riding simulation system includes a steering handle mechanism capable of being gripped by an operator for steering a front wheel of a motorcycle displayed on a display of a personal computer or the like. The system also includes a frame body for rotatably holding the steering handle mechanism, and a control unit mounted to the frame body for performing control based on the operation amounts of the steering handle mechanism, a clutch lever and a brake lever, with a circuit substrate being incorporated in the control unit and being connected to the detection units through connection cables. The riding simulation system provides a relatively small system with a control unit that is easily mounted to enhance maintenance and installation of system components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yohei Makuta
  • Patent number: 8016595
    Abstract: In an interactive driving simulation apparatus for a two-wheeled vehicle, a real-time test drive performance by a student operator around a simulated driving route sequence is recorded. The recorded performance is later replayed for the benefit of the student, to provide real-world simulation, education, and performance evaluation. During the simulated driving, pre-recorded performance evaluation comments are selected and stored, corresponding to the student's specific performance at a traffic driving situation on the driving route sequence. Then, upon displaying of a replay screen image of the simulated driving on a display unit, when a particular traffic driving situation is arrived at, a simulated operating environment of the traffic driving situation and the selected performance evaluation comments are automatically superimposed and displayed together as a replay screen 154.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Katsuhito Aoki, Sadanao Ichimi, Yukio Miyamaru
  • Patent number: 7998033
    Abstract: A bicycle trainer frame adapted for use with a bicycle includes a frame member having spaced apart ends. A coupler is disposed in at least one of the ends, the coupler having engaging cam elements to cause linear movement of a rod. A lever is connected to one of the cam elements wherein the cam surfaces are configured to cause linear movement for rotation of lever less than one revolution such that the rod moves from a first position to a second position, the first position being spaced apart from a component of the bicycle to allow removal of the bicycle from the frame, and the second position being sufficient to secure the bicycle to the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: Kurt Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Duane G. Schroeder
  • Patent number: 7976433
    Abstract: Presented is a bike fitting and diagnostic machine with adjustable rider contact points of the saddle, the pedals, and the handlebars. Adjustments can be made while the rider pedals, and while the rider's output is measured in watts, calories, heart rate, or other units. Optimal bike fit parameters are determined to help a rider select a well fitting bike or have one made to his specifications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Inventor: Todd N. Kenyon
  • Patent number: 7901333
    Abstract: One embodiment of an improved self-centering mechanism restoring the handlebar or control of an electronic exercise bicycle or video game bike to the straight ahead position when the rider removes his hands from the handlebars or controls. The self-centering mechanism is configured with a compression spring (52) assisting and pressurizing a mechanical device comprised of two opposing circular ball ramps (32) and (44) with radial tapered depth grooves (42). Round balls (40) of similar diameter to the radius of the depth grooves (42) are situated in the grooves (42) between the opposing ball ramps (32) and (44). The compression spring (52) is located over a connecting bolt (56) which connects the ball ramps (32) and (44) to a shaft (26) that is supported with bearings (22) and (28) in a housing (24). Below the spring assembly is the mount assembly for the potentiometer (66), which sends the data signals communicating the rotation amount of the handlebars to the video game.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Inventor: Richard Kentopp
  • Patent number: 7837595
    Abstract: A controller is disclosed, especially but not exclusively, for use in combination with an exercise apparatus. The controller comprises in one arrangement a handlebar assembly and one or more input devices, of at least one of the input device being responsive to movement of the handlebars. The controller may include a support such as a handlebar stem, and may provide output signals to a microprocessor in turn to control operation of a programme running on the microprocessor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Inventor: Michael Joseph Patrick Rice
  • Patent number: 7798814
    Abstract: A riding simulation system for providing an operator with a pseudo-experience of a running motorcycle. A steering handle mechanism of the system which enables the operator to perform steering operations is turnably held on a frame body and a connection shaft is supported to be inclinable relative to the frame body through an inclination lock mechanism. The connection shaft is provided to be extendable and contractable along the axial direction thereof through an extension/contraction lock mechanism, so that the position of a pedal mechanism mounted on the lower side of the connection shaft can be displaced to a desired position relative to the position of the steering handle mechanism. The system also includes a vibrator and a click generator to simulate the vibration of a motor and the sound of gear shifting, as well as a mechanism to simulate a reaction force to a steering handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yohei Makuta, Kyohei Ueda, Yukio Miyamaru
  • Patent number: 7766798
    Abstract: The invention is a bicycle trainer to which a standard bicycle temporarily attaches for exercise and simulated rides. A lifting mechanism raises and lowers the front tire, and in preferred embodiments, a frame engages the rear tire to hold the rear tire in an elevated position against a resistance cylinder. The resistance cylinder provides a force against rear tire revolution and varies the resistance to pedaling. The resistance cylinder can vary resistance against back tire revolution by pumping a resistance fluid into and out of the cylinder, by changing the position of the resistance cylinder in relation to the back tire, or by translation of the bicycle back and forth. In other embodiments, the trainer is electronically controlled to simulate real-world geographical courses programmed into a readable format for electronically maneuvering front tire and back tire positions as necessary to provide resistance to pedaling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Inventor: Brian H. Hamilton
  • Patent number: 7758474
    Abstract: A bicycle trainer includes a frame, a resistance unit interconnected with the frame, and a wheel mounting arrangement for securing the bicycle wheel to the frame. The wheel mounting arrangement includes first and second spaced apart wheel engagement areas, one of which includes a threaded wheel engagement member. A fixed-position threaded actuator member is rotatably interconnected with the frame. Rotation of the actuator member causes extension and retraction of the wheel engagement member, to move the wheel engagement member toward and away from the second wheel engagement area, and to selectively clamp the wheel between the second wheel engagement area and the wheel engagement member. The threads of the actuator member and the wheel engagement member are lead threads, and a guide arrangement is associated with the threaded wheel engagement member for guiding inward and outward movement of the wheel engagement member upon rotation of the actuator member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Assignee: Saris Cycling Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Fabio Pedrini
  • Publication number: 20100096833
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and a method for using the apparatus for safely training a motorcycle rider to perform a wheelie, either while moving or while stationary. The apparatus provides a safety system which prevents the motorcycle from tipping over backwards or sideways.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2008
    Publication date: April 22, 2010
    Inventor: Steven Gray
  • Publication number: 20100035218
    Abstract: A vehicle simulation system equipped to display information on the rear side of a driver (rider). The simulation system includes a dummy bicycle operated by the rider, a monitor on the front side for displaying a scene based on the operations of the dummy bicycle, and a lamp unit connected to the dummy bicycle and provided on the rear side relative to the seated position of the rider. The lamp unit has a red lamp, a yellow lamp and a green lamp, and is controlledly turned ON under the action of a main control unit. An input device is provided on a steering handle of the dummy bicycle. The input device has a switch for red, a switch for yellow, and a switch for green. The rider checks behind, and operates the input device according to the ON/OFF conditions of the lamp unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2009
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Inventors: Sadanao ICHIMI, Yukio Miyamaru