Chain And Sprocket Patents (Class 440/30)
  • Patent number: 11958577
    Abstract: A modular boat that includes a main body that is hollow and has suitcase like dimensions; inflatable floating elements that are detachable coupled to the main body via first mechanical interfaces; a boat control unit that is movably coupled to the main body and is configured to move between a first position to a second position, the first and second positions differ from each other by at least a distance of a distal part of the boat control unit from the main body; a propulsion unit; wherein a when the modular boat is at a disassembled state, the one or more inflatable floating elements are not detachably coupled to the main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2023
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2024
    Inventor: Moshe Katz
  • Patent number: 11034423
    Abstract: Disclosed is a pedal drive system for use with a watercraft that facilitates propelling of the watercraft. The pedal drive system of the present invention is placed through an opening in the bottom of the watercraft and affixed to the body of the watercraft. The propeller is then attached to a drive shaft. The user provides mechanical input (e.g., rotational force) by rotating pedals of a pedal arrangement of the pedal drive system. The rotational force is transferred from the drive assembly through the gears to the drive shafts that rotates the propeller, thus driving the watercraft forward as well as backward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 25, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2021
    Inventors: Marc Pelland, Steven Horvath
  • Patent number: 10259280
    Abstract: A lightweight amphibious vehicle system enables a user to traverse the land or water in the same craft. The wheels have paddles attached on the sides and are powered by a transmission that multiplies the force of a user to enable the system to travel without great effort. The transmission is driven by pedal power input by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2019
    Inventor: Richard Darin Roe
  • Patent number: 9650109
    Abstract: A water bike has a frame supported on first and second spaced apart pontoons or similar floatation elements. Pedals are attached to cranks on a front sprocket rotatably supported on the frame. A chain or belt extends around the front sprocket and around a rear sprocket on a gearbox. An outdrive is supported on the gearbox and pivotal about a vertical axis relative to the gearbox. The combined outdrive and gearbox are pivotable about a horizontal axis relative to the frame. A propeller on the outdrive is mechanically linked to a first gear in the gearbox, with the first gear meshing with a second gear attached to the rear sprocket. A steering bar is pivotally attached to the frame. A steering linkage connects the steering bar to the outdrive, for pivoting the outdrive to steer the water bike.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2017
    Assignee: Schiller Sports, Inc.
    Inventors: Judah Schiller, Robert Frick, Martin Windmill
  • Patent number: 9463857
    Abstract: A human powered watercraft has a bicycle type pedal and crank drive system linked to a propeller on a vane which positions the propeller below the water line, when in use. The propeller is driven via the crank drive system which may include gears, pulleys or sprockets linked to the propeller via belts or chains, and one or more reduction systems. A handle bar supported on the hull has a steering system connected for steering the vane, or the propeller on the vane, via cables.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2016
    Assignee: Schiller Sports, Inc.
    Inventors: Judah Schiller, Marcus Hays
  • Patent number: 9302755
    Abstract: A pedal propulsion device for use on a small watercraft, having a lightweight portable frame with integral foot-engagement cranks. A propeller and rudder assembly driven by the foot cranks automatically will adjust for obstacles within and below the water, while maintaining direct drive by utilizing a depth stabilizer assembly extending from the support frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Inventor: Bruce A. Wolfe
  • Patent number: 9051027
    Abstract: A vehicle has a frame, a straddle seat, a motor, a belt transmission system, front left and right suspension assemblies, front left and right ground engaging members, a rear suspension assembly, a rear ground engaging member, a steering assembly operatively connected to the front left and right ground engaging members and having a handlebar, and an inertia wheel. The inertia wheel is operatively connected to the steering assembly. The inertia wheel pivots about a generally vertical axis when the handlebar is turned to steer the front left and right ground engaging members. The inertia wheel pivots about the vertical axis in a same direction as the front left and right ground engaging members when steered by the handlebar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2015
    Assignee: BOMBARDIER RECREATIONAL PRODUCTS INC.
    Inventors: Sebastien Vezina, Jonathan Fortier
  • Patent number: 8626392
    Abstract: A vehicle driving control apparatus is provided at least with: a rudder angle varying device capable of changing a relation between a steering angle, which is a rotation angle of a steering input shaft, and a rudder angle, which is a rotation angle of steered wheels; and a trajectory controlling device for controlling the rudder angle varying device such that a trajectory of a vehicle approaches a target driving route of the vehicle. The vehicle driving control apparatus is further provided with a changing device for changing responsiveness of control by the trajectory controlling device when there is a steering input given to the steering input shaft through a steering wheel by a driver of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Takahiro Kojo
  • Patent number: 8543324
    Abstract: Watercraft automation and aquatic data utilization for aquatic efforts are utilized for fishing and network communication. In one aspect, an anchor point is obtained and a water craft position maintenance routine is actuated to control the watercraft to maintain association with the anchor point. In another aspect, prior aquatic effort data is obtained in association with an anchor point. In yet another, aspect, current aquatic effort data is generated in association with an anchor point. In still another aspect, current aquatic effort data and prior aquatic effort data are utilized for prediction generation. In yet another aspect, current aquatic effort data and prior aquatic effort data are utilized to obtain another anchor point for a watercraft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Inventors: Ted V. Grace, Ryan T. Grace
  • Patent number: 8527192
    Abstract: Watercraft automation and aquatic data utilization for aquatic efforts are utilized for fishing and network communication. In one aspect, an anchor point is obtained and a water craft position maintenance routine is actuated to control the watercraft to maintain association with the anchor point. In another aspect, prior aquatic effort data is obtained in association with an anchor point. In yet another, aspect, current aquatic effort data is generated in association with an anchor point. In still another aspect, current aquatic effort data and prior aquatic effort data are utilized for prediction generation. In yet another aspect, current aquatic effort data and prior aquatic effort data are utilized to obtain another anchor point for a watercraft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Inventors: Ted V. Grace, Ryan T. Grace
  • Patent number: 8515661
    Abstract: Watercraft automation and aquatic data utilization for aquatic efforts are utilized for fishing and network communication. In one aspect, an anchor point is obtained and a water craft position maintenance routine is actuated to control the watercraft to maintain association with the anchor point. In another aspect, prior aquatic effort data is obtained in association with an anchor point. In yet another, aspect, current aquatic effort data is generated in association with an anchor point. In still another aspect, current aquatic effort data and prior aquatic effort data are utilized for prediction generation. In yet another aspect, current aquatic effort data and prior aquatic effort data are utilized to obtain another anchor point for a watercraft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Inventors: Ted V. Grace, Ryan T. Grace
  • Patent number: 7931512
    Abstract: A personal watercraft (10) comprises a floatation platform (12) and a separate module (14) including a water propulsor driving crank mechanism (22) and a keel (38) mounting the water propulsor. The separate module (14), when mounted to the platform (12), extends at right angles to the platform with the keel (38) and propeller (40) extending below the platform (12) and the propulsor driving crank mechanism (22) extending above the platform. The separate module (14) is readily separable from the platform (12) for ease of storage and transport.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: IT Creations Corporations
    Inventors: Peter Bortsov, Alexandre Prisheltsev
  • Patent number: 7549902
    Abstract: A propulsion system for watercraft for personal enjoyment that incorporates human power with electric motor assistance, energy storage and optional solar power to achieve increased watercraft speeds and/or reduced pedaling effort. Control electronics enable operator-adjustable electric motor assistance to the propulsion, thereby providing flexible pedal cadences and efforts and enjoyment for a wide variety of operators. An optional photovoltaic solar panel augments the power generation to extend travel time with motor assistance, and recharges the energy storage system. This invention enables a pleasure watercraft that is simultaneously lightweight, low cost, low maintenance, environmentally friendly with zero pollution, ultra-low noise, and thrilling to operate, while simultaneously providing a means of enjoyable exercise for operators of nearly all abilities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Inventor: Patrick Lee Jansen
  • Patent number: 7530867
    Abstract: A portable pedal driven propulsion device for a small watercraft (1) in which power from crank operated pedals (5) is transmitted to a pivotally mounted gearbox (32) or pulley system (81,82,83) adjacent the operator. A longitudinal drive shaft (2) is connected, at one end, to the gearbox (32) or pulley system (81,82,83) and, at the other end, to a propeller (40) such that the drive shaft (2) and propeller (40) can be moved selectively between a raised inoperative position and a lowered operative position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Inventor: Reinhard Erwin Jackson
  • Publication number: 20080188146
    Abstract: A pedal powered boat having a drive assembly including an eccentric idler provides adjustment or tension for a chain used as part of the drive assembly to power the boat. A crankshaft assembly and a bevel gear assembly are uniquely combined to produce a smooth pedaling operation for the user. The bevel gear assembly is operable to change the direction of rotation 90 degrees and increasing the speed three times for a net overdrive of six times for creating the speed necessary for a propeller drive.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: Harry Howard, David Wilcoxen
  • Patent number: 6905379
    Abstract: A portable pedal driven propulsion device for a small watercraft in which power from crank operated pedals is transmitted to a pivotally mounted gearbox on the outside of the watercraft adjacent the operator. A longitudinal drive shaft is connected, at one end, to the gear box and, at the other end, to a propeller so that the drive shaft and propeller can be moved selectively between a raised inoperative position and a lowered operative position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2005
    Inventor: Reinhard Erwin Jackson
  • Patent number: 6712653
    Abstract: A pedal driven aquatic propulsion system comprises a driven sprocket located substantially vertically beneath a drive sprocket. The planes of rotation of the drive and driven sprockets are disposed substantially at right angles to one another. An endless chain drive transmits power from the drive sprocket to the driven sprocket, operating in a twisting three-dimensional orientation as it loops around the sprockets. A pivoting, self tensioning idler arm is adjustably mounted on a frame that encloses the propulsion drive, and comprises an idler sprocket disposed in rotatable contact with the chain drive to maintain the chain under constant tension. The plane of rotation of the idler sprocket is tilted and offset from the planes of rotation of the drive and driven sprockets. The constantly tensioning system comprises a series of stationary and flying idlers aligned to the natural twist of the chain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Inventor: James Jacob Free
  • Publication number: 20030013355
    Abstract: A pedal drive system for a human powered boat includes a series of idlers regulating chain means such that when a pedal drive sprocket applies torque, said chain means gets fed through the series of said idlers on the non-tension side of said drive system from a driven propeller shaft sprocket to said pedal drive sprocket, said driven propeller shaft sprocket located substantially below said pedal drive sprocket and skewed such that its rotation axis is at right angles to the pedal rotation axis. While said chain means is fed from said driven propeller shaft sprocket to said pedal drive sprocket, it is held in place, fed smoothly and easily, and held under adequate tension as to prevent said chain means from skipping by the angular alignment and orientation of said idlers and tensioning means for said chain means with the natural twist of said chain means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2001
    Publication date: January 16, 2003
    Inventor: James Jacob Free
  • Publication number: 20020115358
    Abstract: A watercycle having substantially do-nut shape float mounted onto a frame or chassis member, and a rider's seat adjustable vertically and horizontally. Adjusting the seat to its highest level will cause a seated rider to submerge up to the hip, and adjusting it to its lowest level will cause said rider to submerge up to the chest. The seat is likewise adjustable forward and backward for convenient foot-reach to the pedals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2002
    Publication date: August 22, 2002
    Inventor: Esteban N. Sagucio
  • Patent number: 6309263
    Abstract: A bicycle-type marine vessel including a long, narrow hull unstable in nature, that keeps balance on the water by means of a front rotating keel-propeller system that plays the role of a front wheel on a ground bicycle. The forward location of the keel and propeller permit the operator, sitting on a ground bike type frame, to balance and direct the vessel, while in motion, by means of the handlebar and body leaning. Forward impulse is achieved by leg actuated pedals that transmit power to the propeller placed at the back of the forward turning keel. The balancing force comes from the course change of the hull given by the new keel and propeller direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Inventor: Rafael Mier-Maza
  • Patent number: 6267631
    Abstract: Disclosed is a bicycle accessory generally comprised of at least one pontoon, a frame, front bicycle mounting hardware and rear bicycle mounting hardware, and a propulsion mechanism. A common bicycle is mounted on the front bicycle and rear bicycle mounting hardware and the combination placed on water deep enough to enable floatation of the watercraft, a bicycle and a rider thereupon. A rider climbs propels and directs the watercraft in the manner customary for bicycles on land.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2001
    Inventor: Marvin L. Anderson
  • Patent number: 6210242
    Abstract: A pedal-powered watercraft comprises a unitary hull having an upper wall extending from a bow portion to a stern portion of the watercraft and a pair of spaced hollow sponsons located on either side of the upper wall. The upper wall together with inner walls of the sponsons form a tunnel that opens generally downwardly and extends from the bow portion to the stern portion of the watercraft. A deck is connected to the hull and includes an elongate opening that defines a cockpit area for receiving an occupant. A seat is located in the cockpit area and a pedal assembly is connected to the hull forwardly of the seat. The pedal assembly includes a pivotal pedal tower and a pair of pedals rotatably mounted on the pedal tower. The pair of pedals are operably connected to drive the propeller during pedal rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2001
    Inventors: Harry Howard, Tara Ann Howard
  • Patent number: 6165030
    Abstract: A pedal driven propulsion device in the form of an outboard motor for a watercraft, such as a canoe is disclosed. The pedal driven propulsion device having a drive assembly and a propeller assembly with an upper portion and a lower portion. A steering assembly, for steering the watercraft, is coupled to the drive assembly at the upper portion and to a propeller rotatively disposed at the lower portion for providing propulsion to the watercraft when the drive assembly is activated by a human. A mounting assembly for mounting between the gunwales of the watercraft is provided. The lower portion and the upper portion of the propeller assembly have a bevel gear system with a bearing arrangement. The lower and upper portions are cooperatively and driveably engaged with each other by a propeller drive rod. A tilting mechanism is provided to allow the propeller assembly to be tilted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Inventor: Robert M. Lewis
  • Patent number: 6165029
    Abstract: A pedal boat mainly includes a hull equipped with a transmission mechanism and a steering mechanism. A tubular member is connected behind a lower rear end of the hull. The transmission mechanism includes a driving chain wheel, a gearbox, and a propeller connected to the gearbox via a shaft and located in the tubular member. The driving chain wheel can be rotated by use of two pedals connected thereto. Power generated by the rotating chain wheel is transmitted to the propeller via the gearbox at a high transmission gear ratio, so that the propeller rotates at high speed and expels water from the tubular member to move the pedal boat quickly in directions controlled by the steering mechanism. The propeller is located under water and would not splash water about to wet a user of the boat when it works. The pedal boat is manhandled by pedaling but capable of moving at high speed and is therefore an interesting water sport means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Inventor: Hsueh-Liang Lu
  • Patent number: 6146218
    Abstract: A universal platform for a human powered floatation device. The platform has a frame with two spaced apart rail members adapted to interchangeably receive multiple types of propulsion devices. A support arm and a crossbar are provided for securing a propeller drive assembly, seats and pedals to the rails of the frame while allowing longitudinal position adjustment along the frame and an interchange of propulsion devices, such as a bicycle or ski machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2000
    Inventor: Robert D. White
  • Patent number: 6083062
    Abstract: A lightweight, collapsible boat comprises twin parallel hulls, a frame and human-powered paddlewheels outboard of the two hulls. The boat's frame is capable of being collapsed and packed into a bundle for carrying as a backpack. The drive comprises a pedal drive for turning a short drive axle which is independently and releasably coupled to paddlewheel driveshafts. Steering of the boat is accomplished by selective engaging and disengaging of the left and right couplings The frame comprises a steering column, an operator's seat support, rear hull spacing members and front hull spacing members which support the driveshafts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2000
    Inventors: Lester A. Treloar, Richard Brooks
  • Patent number: 6056607
    Abstract: A manually driven fitness device includes a main body, two floating barrels respectively mounted on both sides of the main body, a front drive mounted at the front end of the main body, a rear drive speed variation device mounted at the rear end of the main body, a power transmitting device connected with the front drive and the rear drive speed variation device, and a power output device engaged with the output end of the rear drive speed variation device. The floating barrel is a hollow object, which supports the main body to float in water with its buoyancy, while the user may exert force with one's hands and feet respectively on the front power drive and the rear drive speed variation device, and stretch arms and legs in a regular pattern so as to achieve the effects of exercise on water surface or in the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Inventors: Chen-Chi Huang, Swan-Chiu Huang
  • Patent number: 6050864
    Abstract: An amphibious bicycle intended to be highly efficient, safe and maneuverable forms of both land and water transportation. This achieved by the addition of a strong, rigid frame work, small paddles in the rear wheel assembly, and durable, nonsinkable pontoons of high density styrofoam, made structurally strong and protected by linear outside structural supports sandwiching them. And finally, adding bracing at strategic points to effectively maintain the pontoons' land or water position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Inventor: Joab Jay Perdue
  • Patent number: 5845593
    Abstract: A non sinkable, easily re-rightable aquatic vehicle has a lightweight body with a front, a rear, a bottom and opposite sides and contains a seat for supporting a pilot. A pair of front sheaves are rotatably mounted to opposite sides of the body near the front of the body and a pair of rear sheaves are rotatably mounted to opposite sides of the body near the rear thereof. A first flotation track is engaged around and extends between the front and rear sheaves on one side of the body and a second flotation track is engaged around and extends between the front and rear sheaves on the other side of the body. Each said flotation track includes an endless band engaged around a front and rear sheave and a multiplicity of buoyant flotation treads connected to the band at spaced apart locations therealong to form upper and lower series of flotation treads extending between the associated front and rear sheaves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1998
    Inventor: Orville J. Birkestrand
  • Patent number: 5807148
    Abstract: A portable apparatus for using a bicycle not only on land but also as a type of watercraft has two oblong connected inflatable floats, a propulsion unit including a propeller and a clutch unit picking up a motion from a tire of a bicycle rearwheel, a rearjoint device for connection between rear parts of the floats and rear upper and lower forks of the bicycle, and a front joint device for connection a front of the floats with a lower bar of a bicycle frame, a quick-coupling clamp to which the clutch unit is fixed and which is securable to a bar of a saddle of the bicycle frame and connected to the propulsion unit by a flexible shaft so that by turning of pedals and therefore a rear wheel of the bicycle, movement is transferred through the flexible shaft to the propulsion unit, an element for connecting the two floats, a element for securing the bicycle, and the propulsion unit being formed so that the apparatus can be stowed inside shoulder packs and rucksacks for easy transport while riding the bicycle or ca
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Inventor: Roberto Siviero
  • Patent number: 5803774
    Abstract: An integrated system for land and water recreation such that when in a flotation mode, a propeller and rudder are powered and controlled by a standard bicycle; that when in a terrestrial mode, the integrated system is powered and trailered by the same bicycle. The flotation device having a propeller drive assembly and steerable rudder for use with any standard bicycle frame allowing an individual the ability to have a self-propelled water craft. The device utilizes a standard bicycle, having only the wheels removed, to provide power and steering. The bicycle is mounted to the flotation device with the chain wrapped around the chain drive sprocket of the propeller drive assembly. Because the chain drive sprocket is a standard Shimano sprocket, the bicycle's rear derailleur may be used to shift gears. The operator may pedal the device across a body of water, then remove the bicycle frame and remount the tires to continue travel over land.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1998
    Inventor: Robert D. White
  • Patent number: 5782480
    Abstract: A human-powered wheeled amphibious vehicle includes a substantially planar buoyant base member upon which the rider sits while pedaling to turn the rear wheels of the vehicle. The rear wheels have inner-tube-like pneumatic tires and blades and/or paddle structure for improved traction in water. A single front wheel is supported on the base member by a turntable which is oscillated by moving a pair of handles, each mounted in a slot in the base member and reciprocable fore and aft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1998
    Inventor: Reuben Phillips
  • Patent number: 5722865
    Abstract: The canard balanced marine bicycle is an aquatic vehicle having a long and very narrow hull which depends, for its stability, on the dynamic forces generated by its movement through the water acting on the canard. The canard depends from the bottom of the hull and is movable about its axis by handlebars controlled by the rider. The vehicle is powered by the rider through the manipulation of pedals which drive a propulsion system. The vehicle is guided by a steerable rudder operated by controls located on the handlebars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1998
    Inventor: George W. Tatum
  • Patent number: 5718611
    Abstract: A watercraft has floats supporting a bicycle-type frame having handlebars connected to a rudder to steer the watercraft. Side boards located on opposite sides of the frame are mounted on cross bars which support the frame on the floats. A chain and sprocket foot operated drive is connected to a shaft journaled to a housing accommodating a power transmission for rotating a propeller. A chain guard is located on opposite sides of the chain connecting the shaft and foot operated drive. The housing is movable between a down location wherein the chain is retained in a tension condition to an up location wherein the chain is in a loose condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 17, 1998
    Assignee: Hydro-Bikes, Inc.
    Inventors: Phillip E. Schlangen, Raymond J. Buresch
  • Patent number: 5713727
    Abstract: An in-line, multi-stage pump powered by integral canned electric motors. At least two pump units are connected in series in a pipeline. Each of said pump units includes a hollow housing having a hermetically sealed stator mounted therein. The stator is electrically connected to a source of electrical energy. An impeller assembly that includes a tubular suction shroud and impeller is rotatably mounted inside the housing. The impeller assembly includes a hermetically sealed rotor which is mounted around the suction shroud and positioned inside the stator in operative association therewith. Energizing the stator rotates the rotor, which in turn rotates the impeller to pump fluid from the intake end of the housing to the outlet end of the housing. The subsequent pump units add pressure and/or maintains the pressure of the pumped fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 3, 1998
    Assignee: Westinghouse Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Luciano Veronesi, Allen L. Morris
  • Patent number: 5626501
    Abstract: A pontoon water bike raft comprises two rear pontoons disposed parallel one another on either side of a longitudinal axis, with a transverse, planar truss spanning between them. Coupled by quick release joints to the midpoint of the truss and extending forward to rest on a third, front pontoon, a vertical frame supports a swivel seat for a driver. The frame includes a steering column similar to that of a conventional bicycle, allowing steering the water bike by turning the front pontoon. The steering column is tilted rearward slightly, and rests on the front pontoon rearward of its longitudinal center, to provide positive steering return when released. To propel the water bike, the driver manipulates a foot pedal mounted near the steering column and coupled by a chain to a transverse axle beneath the seat. Coupled to the axle are a plurality of planar water paddles arranged around a hub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 6, 1997
    Inventor: Xiaohai He
  • Patent number: 5547406
    Abstract: A floatation device with propeller drive assembly and steerable rudder for use with any standard bicycle frame allowing an individual the ability to have a self propelled water craft. The device utilizes a standard bicycle, having only the wheels removed, to provide power and steering. The bicycle is mounted to the floatation device with the chain wrapped around the chain drive sprocket of the propeller drive assembly. Because the chain drive sprocket is a standard shimano sprocket, the bicycle's rear derailer may be used to shift gears. The operator may pedal the device across a body of water, then remove the bicycle frame and remount the tires to continue travel over land.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1996
    Inventor: Robert D. White
  • Patent number: 5443405
    Abstract: The bike-board for moving over the water on a conventional said board (10), so that movement is carried out with the help of a conventional bicycle (12), installed on the board. The stability of the bike-board is ensured by two side pontoons (34) with a beams (36 and 38) but the bicycle (12) is fixed by side straps (26). The bike-board is provided with a propellers (48) are kinematically connected to a supporting rollers (14 and 16) with the tire of the bicycle (12) rear wheel. The propellers (48) are rotated by flexible shafts (50). For steering the propellers (48) are made turning and are provided with pivot shafts (52). Turning of the propellers (48) is carried out by the front wheel with the help of a steering cable (56). The design of the bike-board so that any model of the board (10) can be joined with any model of the bicycle (12) regardless of its size and wheelbase; without any modification of both the board (10) and the bicycle (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 22, 1995
    Inventor: Yevgeniy Zeyger
  • Patent number: 5405275
    Abstract: A watercraft has floats supporting a bicycle-type frame, having handlebars connected to a rudder to steer the watercraft. A chain and sprocket foot operated drive is connected to a shaft journaled to a housing accommodating a power transmission for rotating a propeller. The housing is movable between a down location, wherein the chain is retained in a tension condition to an up location, wherein the chain is in a loose condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 11, 1995
    Assignee: Hydeo-Bikes, Inc.
    Inventors: Phillip E. Schlangen, Raymond J. Buresch
  • Patent number: 5362264
    Abstract: A water bicycle comprises a flotation board, a propulsion and seat unit including a mounting flange, a seat, foot pedals mounted for rotation driven by a person sitting on the seat, a propeller and a coupling connecting the pedals to the propeller, an opening in the board through which the propeller may pass and a surrounding edge surface able to receive the flange. A connector is provided for releasably connecting the flange to the edge surface. The bicycle includes a bore in the board with a bushing seat surrounding an upper end of the bore, a handlebar unit including a shaft and a bushing provided on the shaft above a lower end of the shaft, the bushing engaging the bushing seat and the shaft being supported and rotatable in the bore, and a rudder unit connected to the handlebar shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 8, 1994
    Inventor: Pierre-Louis Parant
  • Patent number: 5316508
    Abstract: A human-propelled water bicycle suitable for training or recreative purposes. The water bicycle has two steerable front pontoons and two rear pontoons fixed to a main frame substantially similar to a convention bicycle frame. Handlebars are provided to turn the steerable front pontoons and therefore allowing the water bicycle to be steered. The water bicycle has a pedal mechanism and a bicycle-type transmission powering a propeller located at the rear of the water bicycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 31, 1994
    Inventor: Angelo Landucci
  • Patent number: 5308268
    Abstract: To permit rapid assembly and disassembly of the water cycle so that, when disassembled, it can be stored or transported in minimum space. The cycle, which has at least three flotation bodies (2a, 2b, 2c), which are elongated or torpedo shaped, is formed of tubular frame elements which are coupled together by push-in connectors with spring-loaded pin locks (9, 30, 30', 33, 41) so that individual frame elements (6,7,8; 12,13,14; 24,25) of the cycle can be disassembled into the frame elements, or, selectively, snapped together. The flotation bodies are preferably inflatable and formed with a keel. A pedal and crank arrangement is coupled to a transmission which can drive a propeller or, directly via a chain, a paddle wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 3, 1994
    Assignee: A. G. Schmid AG
    Inventor: August Schmid
  • Patent number: 5295878
    Abstract: Mud bug, a portable system for propulsion of small boats consisting basically of a carrying frame (10) housing controls for forward and reverse speed, steering, and tilt of a remote mounted outdrive assembly. Control is accomplished through flexible sheathed cables. Adjustable tension provided by (66) and (74) allows the outdrive to tilt when in forward operation if underwater obstruction is encountered, and also provides lift and lock to tilt the outdrive up and free of the water. When operating in reverse, (62) will automatically lock the outdrive down. The carrying frame provides a boom (19) and attachment for mounting the outdrive on boats with unavailable motor mounting. The carrying frame also provides outriggers (14) for stability and a lower rear seat mount. Local adjustment of both the outdrive height and tilt are controlled by the single fastener (54) in the adjustment clamp (53) on the outdrive mount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 22, 1994
    Inventor: Ben Guidry
  • Patent number: 5282762
    Abstract: A portable propeller drive and steering mechanism for small craft in which a frame is provided with an adjustable seat and a pedal driven chain drive connected to a geared transmission, and which has a chain drive output powering a horizontally arranged jack shaft. The jack shaft is provided with a universal gearbox whose output in turn powers a propeller. A steering handle located adjacent the seat is provided with steering linkage connected to a propeller drive shaft housing which carries the propeller at one end and is rotatably mounted within the gearbox at its other end. Operation of the linkage causes rotation of the propeller drive shaft housing. Raising and lowering of the handle will cause motion between a pair of gears in the gearbox and rotation of the propeller drive shaft housing around the axis of the jack shaft to vertically raise and lower the propeller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 1, 1994
    Inventor: John Cerreto
  • Patent number: 5194024
    Abstract: A propeller driven surfboard is provided which consists of a hull having a nose at the bow and a tail at the stern. A skeg is mounted to the underside of the hull, while a seat having a support structure is mounted onto the hull between the nose and tail thereof for a person to sit on. A mechanism is mounted in the hull in front of the seat, for propelling the hull along a body of water. Another mechanism is mounted in the hull in back of the seat, for steering the hull along the body of water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1993
    Inventor: Wilton F. Shiraki
  • Patent number: 5178088
    Abstract: An amphibious vehicle has a hull with a seat portion formed on its upper side. An operator seated upon the seat would straddle the hull. The hull has a flotation body for buoyancy and four hollow, cylindrical wheels also contribute to the buoyancy. Handlebars are used to steer the wheels and to operate a rudder so that the amphibious vehicle may be operated on firm, sandy, soft, and liquid surfaces. The wheels have vanes which radiate outwardly and curve counterclockwise, viewing each wheel in the foreground and the hull in the background. This causes the vaned wheels to grip soil or mud and to channel water rearwardly to propel the amphibious vehicle forwardly. The vehicle is propelled by a pedaling mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1993
    Inventor: Allegra E. Howard
  • Patent number: 5011441
    Abstract: A main body member is supported by transverse supports on a pair of pontoons. The main body member supports an operator's seat, a cargo rack, a pedal drive propeller assembly, and a rudder. The main body member has longitudinal slots in its surfaces that are associated with longitudinal interior sockets for adjustable engagement with the seat, the cargo rack, a support extension for the pedal drive propeller assembly, and the transverse supports. By means of such adjustable engagement, attachable portions are capable of longitudinal adjustment for establishing the desired trim of the cycle on the water with the operator or operators supported on the seat. Also, the support extension for the pedal drive propeller assembly is capable of longitudinal adjustment to accommodate the stature of the operator or operators after the plane of buoyancy has been established. Furthermore, seat and propeller assemblies for one or two persons are capable of being substituted one for the other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1991
    Assignee: Recreation Industries Company
    Inventors: John J. Foley, Ralph M. Eide, Ranald I. Macdonell
  • Patent number: 4891024
    Abstract: A marine propeller equipped drive unit is provided for support from the transom of a boat in generally the same manner an outboard motor is supported from a boat transom and a pedal crank assembly is provided for mounting within a boat forward of a transverse seat thereof to be operated by the legs of a person supported from the seat, the pedal crank assembly including an output shaft and the drive unit including an upper end input shaft and there being provided an open drive shaft assembly extending between and operably connecting the output shaft to the input shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 1988
    Date of Patent: January 2, 1990
    Inventor: Robert J. Benjamin
  • Patent number: 4867716
    Abstract: The present invention includes a boat having a pair of rotatable elongated pontoons on opposite sides thereof. Each of the pontoons has helical flighting for propelling the boat during rotation of the pontoon. The pontoon also is filled with floatation materials so as to add to the buoyancy of the vehicle. Each pontoon is independently rotatable so as to achieve maneuverability even without a rudder.A modified form of the present invention utilizes two independently rotatable paddle wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 1988
    Date of Patent: September 19, 1989
    Inventor: Douglas F. McFarland
  • Patent number: 4789365
    Abstract: Apparatus for converting a bicycle to a maneuverable, pedal-operable aquacycle is disclosed. A twin hull assembly includes a support framework for supporting a bicycle by its horizontal frame member. A friction wheel, which may be rotated with the rear wheel of the bicycle by pedal action, turns symmetrically spaced apart, oppositely pitched, twin propellers via dual flexible axles that extend laterally and rearwardly from the friction wheel. An in-line dual rudder control system is provided that, responsive to the turning of the handlebars, efficiently turns the aquacycle in a direction corresponding to the direction a bicycle would turn. Except for conversion hardware consisting of two U-bolts and four nuts, the apparatus is of lightweight, polymeric materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 1987
    Date of Patent: December 6, 1988
    Inventor: Jeffrey K. Jones