Patents by Inventor Frederik R. Mottola

Frederik R. Mottola has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 6024381
    Abstract: An apparatus with a tire that is capable of castering 360 degrees replaces the rear wheels of a front wheel powered automotive vehicle to give drivers an educational experience that simulates the effects excessive speed has upon entry into curves and turns. The rear wheels can remain locked in a non-castering position, whereby the vehicle will perform in a conventional manner. However, under the control of an instructor, the lock can be removed to free the casters, causing the rear of the vehicle to move in the opposite direction from the steering input to simulate a rear wheel skid. When the vehicle on which the invention is mounted is being driven in a straight path the freely castering rear wheels will trial in a straight path. When there is a change in lateral position, such as that which occurs when entering a curve or making a turn, the rear castering wheels will continue to travel in a straight direction causing a lateral acceleration resulting in a rear yaw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2000
    Inventor: Frederik R. Mottola
  • Patent number: 5743562
    Abstract: An apparatus with a tire that is capable of castering 360 degrees replaces the rear wheels of a front wheel powered automotive vehicle to give drivers an educational experience that simulates the effects excessive speed has upon entry into curves and turns. The rear wheels can remain locked in a non-castering position, whereby the vehicle will perform in a conventional manner. However, under the control of an instructor, the lock can be removed to free the casters, causing the rear of the vehicle to move in the opposite direction from the steering input to simulate a rear wheel skid. When the vehicle on which the invention is mounted is being driven in a straight path the freely castering rear wheels will trail in a straight path. When there is a change in lateral position, such as that which occurs when entering a curve or making a turn, the rear castering wheels will continue to travel in a straight direction causing a lateral acceleration resulting in a rear yaw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1998
    Inventor: Frederik R. Mottola
  • Patent number: 5626362
    Abstract: An apparatus with a tire that is capable of castering 360 degrees replaces the rear wheels of a front wheel powered automotive vehicle to give drivers an educational experience that simulates the effects excessive speed has upon entry into curves and turns. The rear wheels can remain locked in a non-castering position, whereby the vehicle will perform in a conventional manner. However, under the control of an instructor, the lock can be removed to free the casters, causing the rear of the vehicle to move in the opposite direction from the steering input to simulate a rear wheel skid. When the vehicle on which the invention is mounted is being driven in a straight path the freely castering rear wheels will trail in a straight path. When there is a change in lateral position, such as that which occurs when entering a curve or making a turn, the rear castering wheels will continue to travel in a straight direction causing a lateral acceleration resulting in a rear yaw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 6, 1997
    Assignee: Interactive Driving Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Frederik R. Mottola