Including Two Wheels Driven And Having Common Axis Of Rotation Patents (Class 180/215)
  • Patent number: 8567548
    Abstract: An independent rear wheel drive assembly for three-wheeled motorcycles is provided having a wheel carrier adapted to rotatably support a wheel, and the wheel carrier includes an interior portion. Also provided is a control arm having a first end, a second end, and an interior portion. The first end of the control arm is pivotably coupled to the wheel carrier and the second end is pivotably coupled to a differential housing. A first end of a stabilizer bar is pivotably coupled to the wheel carrier and a second end is pivotably coupled to the differential housing. A first end of the drive shaft assembly is adapted to be coupled to the wheel and a second end is adapted to be coupled to a differential. Moreover, a portion of the drive shaft assembly is disposed within the interior portions of the wheel carrier and the interior portion of the control arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Inventor: Leon A. Thill
  • Patent number: 8543291
    Abstract: A wheel suspension system for a three-wheeled motorcycle or “trike” includes parallel wheels mounted on vertically pivoting suspension arms governed by hydraulic pistons. The pistons have upper liquid reservoirs that are interconnected through a valve system, which interconnects the upper reservoirs when the trike is in motion, allowing opposing vertical wheel movements when banking through turns, and prevents liquid exchange when the trike is stopped, thereby holding the motorcycle upright, Embodiments include a manual and/or automatic valve control. A threshold switching speed for an automatic controller can be factory set and/or user adjustable. The pistons can include directly interconnected lower fluid reservoirs. A shock-absorbing reservoir can allow transient vertical movement of both wheels to absorb shocks. A cover system can emulate the appearance of saddle bags and can appear to be covering only a single wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Inventor: Steven P Young
  • Patent number: 8505668
    Abstract: An electric two/three-wheeled vehicle includes: a battery case which houses a battery supplying electric power to an electric motor; a leg shield which covers, from a front, legs of a rider sitting on a riding seat; a cooling air inlet duct which has a downstream end portion thereof connected to the battery case; and a cooling fan which introduces cooling air into the battery case through the cooling air inlet duct. In the electric two/three-wheeled vehicle, an opening (90) open toward a rear of the vehicle is provided in the leg shield (43), and an upstream end of the cooling air inlet duct (88) is connected to the leg shield (43) in such a manner as to continue to the opening (90). Accordingly, it is possible to cool a battery while preventing entry of dust into a battery case as much as possible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Iwakami, Kaori Goto, Yusaku Yamashita
  • Patent number: 8412420
    Abstract: A work vehicle comprises a leanable traction wheel. A control unit of the work vehicle is configured to cause the wheel to move to a wheel-lean angle setpoint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Martin L. Ruhter, Brent A. Smith
  • Publication number: 20130068550
    Abstract: There is disclosed herein a vehicle configuration comprising a chassis, at least one front wheel, two rear wheels, and a propulsion unit driving the rear wheels. The rear wheels are connected to the chassis by a wheel support assembly configured for allowing movement of each rear wheel relative to the chassis, a hydraulic cylinder connected to the chassis and the rear wheel supports, and a piston connected the rear wheel supports and the chassis. The piston dividing the hydraulic cylinder into fluidly connected first and second chambers such that movement of hydraulic fluid from the first or second chamber of a hydraulic cylinder to the respective first or second chamber of another hydraulic cylinder displaces the pistons of the hydraulic cylinders in opposing directions relative to the respective housings and causes the chassis to articulate with respect to the surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2011
    Publication date: March 21, 2013
    Inventor: David Andrew Gale
  • Publication number: 20120318596
    Abstract: A three-wheel motorcycle having a support frame with rear wheels mounted on a double axle with differential there between for a drive from a powerful automobile type engine. A front portion of the frame supporting the front motorcycle type single steerable wheel and handlebars mounted thereto for conventional steering. Other features include a unique shock and spring mechanism for the support frame measuring no more than 6 inches off of the ground and having a center of gravity of 14 inches or less powered by an internal combustion engine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2012
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Inventor: Raymond Ackley
  • Publication number: 20120318595
    Abstract: Modular human powered recumbent vehicle has a variable configuration and size. It comprises a group of standardized modules—fast attachable parts connected together by set of cross tubes (4) of variable length. It has three basic modules: middle (1), left (2) and right (3); each module has several modifications. One or more additional modules, like child seat (17), shopping basket (18), additional pedal (15) or electric (16) drive, also can be attached for performing a specific task. Vehicle can be transformed to a powered or unpowered trailer of variable configuration. It can be folded for storage and disassembled for transportation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2011
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Inventors: Alexandre Belenkov, Eugene Belenkov, Anna Belenkova
  • Publication number: 20120193161
    Abstract: A rear-wheels transmission and suspension system, adapted for modifying a two wheeled motorcycle into a motorcycle containing two rear wheels, includes a suspension device, a rear axle and a transmission device. The suspension device includes a supporting frame longitudinally extending along the central axis of a construction frame and pivotally connected with a seat portion of the construction frame of the motorcycle for supporting the rear axle at the rear end the supporting frame while defining a transmission cavity after a rear end of the supporting frame and at a central position behind an output of said engine along the central axis of the construction frame. Therefore the transmission device is able to be supported by the rear axle in the transmission cavity to transmit a rotation output from the engine to drive the rear axle to rotate for driving the rear wheels to rotate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2012
    Publication date: August 2, 2012
    Inventors: Liang Chang, Xin Hua Chen
  • Patent number: 8177013
    Abstract: A rear-wheels transmission and suspension system, adapted for modifying a two wheeled motorcycle into a motorcycle containing two rear wheels, includes a suspension device, a rear axle and a transmission device. The suspension device includes a supporting frame longitudinally extending along the central axis of a construction frame and pivotally connected with a seat portion of the construction frame of the motorcycle for supporting the rear axle at the rear end the supporting frame while defining a transmission cavity after a rear end of the supporting frame and at a central position behind an output of said engine along the central axis of the construction frame. Therefore the transmission device is able to be supported by the rear axle in the transmission cavity to transmit a rotation output from the engine to drive the rear axle to rotate for driving the rear wheels to rotate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Inventors: Liang Chang, Xin Hua Chen
  • Patent number: 8066089
    Abstract: A cycling vehicle is provided in which a first rear wheel is powered exclusively by a bicycle pedal, and a second rear wheel is powered exclusively by an electric motor. The cycling vehicle includes bicycle suspension comprising a seat tube, a paired rear triangle with a connecting member that connects the chain stay and the seat stay, a shock absorber in connection with the seat tube and the connecting member, and a pivot arm in connection with the seat tube and the connecting member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Inventor: Deema Murad
  • Publication number: 20110036655
    Abstract: A three-wheel motorcycle having a support frame with rear wheels mounted on a double axle with differential there between for a drive from a powerful automobile type engine. A front portion of the frame supporting the front motorcycle type single steerable wheel and handlebars mounted thereto for conventional steering. Other features include a unique shock and spring mechanism for the support frame measuring no more than 6 inches off of the ground and having a center of gravity of 14 inches or less powered by an internal combustion engine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2010
    Publication date: February 17, 2011
    Inventor: RAYMOND ACKLEY
  • Patent number: 7878290
    Abstract: A saddle riding type vehicle capable of making turns by leaning a vehicle body includes a pair of rear wheels provided at opposite sides of the vehicle body, a pair of support mechanisms arranged to support the pair of rear wheels to be movable, independently of each other, up and down about a pivot axis relative to the vehicle body, an engine disposed forward of the pivot axis to produce a drive force, a differential mechanism arranged to distribute the drive force of the engine to the pair of rear wheels and to absorb a rotating speed difference between the pair of rear wheels at a time of making a turn, the differential mechanism including drive shafts arranged between the engine and the pivot axis, a pair of shaft drive mechanisms provided for the pair of rear wheels, respectively, and arranged to transmit the drive force of the differential mechanism to the pair of rear wheels, and a pair of constant velocity universal joints provided for the pair of shaft drive mechanisms, respectively, each including a
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Eiichirou Tsujii, Masayuki Hirano, Takeshi Toyota, Sachiyo Hasegawa, Isao Fujii
  • Patent number: 7849943
    Abstract: A towing device for aiding in maneuvering a trailer prior to attachment to or subsequent to detachment from its towing vehicle comprises a frame and other components. A hydrostatic trans-axle is laterally mounted on one end of the frame, a pair of drive wheels is mounted on the hydrostatic trans-axle, a caster wheel is mounted on the other end of the frame and an internal combustion engine is mounted on the frame and coupled to the drive wheels. A main handle is linked to the hydrostatic trans-axle for guiding the towing device. A control handle is mounted on the main handle and coupled to the trans-axle for controlling the direction of movement and speed of movement of the towing device. A neutral bypass lever is provided for disconnecting the internal combustion engine from the drive wheels when so desired and a braking mechanism is provided for braking the towing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Inventor: Norm Ragland
  • Patent number: 7823674
    Abstract: A motorized vehicle, such as a trike motorcycle, includes a frame having a front end connected to at least one front wheel and having a rear end, first and second spaced swing arm assemblies mounted at the rear end, first and second rear wheel assemblies supported by the first and second swing arm assemblies and defining a space therebetween, and at least one support extending from the frame into the space. The arrangement allows a modular structure such as a wheelchair to be connected to the at least one support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Inventors: Dean Bowles, Tommy Koen
  • Patent number: 7766719
    Abstract: A traveling apparatus, including a housing, first and second wheels, a wheel driving section, and a control section. The first and second wheels are supported for individual rotation in one and the other direction around a common axis on the housing. The wheel driving section is configured to drive the first and second wheels to rotate individually. The control section is configured to control the wheel driving section and is operable to control, when traveling of the housing which is traveling is to be stopped, the wheel driving section to drive the first and second wheels to rotate in different conditions from each other so that the housing is revolved toward a first one of the leftward and rightward directions with respect to a traveling direction of the housing once and then revolved toward a second one of the leftward and rightward directions to stop the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Atsushi Ishihara, Wataru Kokubo
  • Publication number: 20100147615
    Abstract: A saddle riding type vehicle capable of making turns by leaning a vehicle body includes a pair of rear wheels provided at opposite sides of the vehicle body, a pair of support mechanisms arranged to support the pair of rear wheels to be movable, independently of each other, up and down about a pivot axis relative to the vehicle body, an engine disposed forward of the pivot axis to produce a drive force, a differential mechanism arranged to distribute the drive force of the engine to the pair of rear wheels and to absorb a rotating speed difference between the pair of rear wheels at a time of making a turn, the differential mechanism including drive shafts arranged between the engine and the pivot axis, a pair of shaft drive mechanisms provided for the pair of rear wheels, respectively, and arranged to transmit the drive force of the differential mechanism to the pair of rear wheels, and a pair of constant velocity universal joints provided for the pair of shaft drive mechanisms, respectively, each including a
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2009
    Publication date: June 17, 2010
    Applicant: YAMAHA HATSUDOKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Eiichirou TSUJII, Masayuki HIRANO, Takeshi TOYOTA, Sachiyo HASEGAWA, Isao FUJII
  • Patent number: 7699130
    Abstract: An improved wheeled vehicle includes a platform adapted and constructed to support an operator of the vehicle. A plurality of wheels support the vehicle for movement on a surface, the plurality of wheels including at least one front wheel adapted and constructed to steer the vehicle, and at least one rear wheel adapted to be driven to impart motion to the vehicle. A handlebar assembly is connected to at least one of the wheels of the vehicle. The handlebar assembly provides directional control of the vehicle, and extends toward the rear of the platform. A motorized drive mechanism is connected to at least one of the wheels, whereby actuation of the drive mechanism causes the vehicle to move along a surface. A control mechanism actuated by the foot of a user includes at least one pedal, and is used to accelerate and decelerate the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Inventor: Anna Palmer
  • Publication number: 20100071983
    Abstract: A three wheel vehicle rear drive suspension design reduces unsprung weight to improve safety and efficiency. A motor mount is connected between a swivel and a live rear axle housing. The swivel is positioned to allow free motion of the live rear axle, for example, between front frame mounting points of leaf springs. A first motor is attached to the motor mount near the swivel and as a result is mostly sprung weight. The first motor may be a low speed motor for starting out, and the vehicle may include a second high speed motor mounted vertical opposite the first motor also close to the swivel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2008
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Inventor: Ronald A. Holland
  • Patent number: 7637338
    Abstract: An all-terrain vehicle comprising a rear platform between the rear wheels providing standing room and access to the straddle seat of the all-terrain vehicle. The all-terrain vehicle may also featuring a rear passageway and a side passageway for the rider of the all-terrain vehicle to access to the straddle seat. The all-terrain vehicle also features rear wheel track which is smaller than the front wheel track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignee: Bombardier Recreational Products Inc.
    Inventors: Hugues Maltais, Simon Constantineau, Claude Gagnon, David Belzile
  • Patent number: 7631715
    Abstract: A golf caddy vehicle comprise a seat assembly mounted on a frame of the vehicle at an attachment location ahead of an axis of rotation of a pair of rear drive wheels via at least one spring element. A pair of rear legs of the seat assembly are pivotally coupled to the at least one spring member at a location behind the axis of rotation of the rear drive wheels, and a pair of front legs of the seat assembly are releasably attached to the frame by a pair of frictional fittings which may be formed of vibration damping material. The seat assembly pivots back to allow a golf bag to be loaded onto the vehicle frame and straddled by the seat assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Inventor: Thomas L. Falkiner
  • Publication number: 20090200093
    Abstract: The invention relates to circumferential movement field, including all circumferential movement devices such as transport vehicle, toy vehicle, space vehicle, blender etc, especially including energy-saving vehicles utilizing gravitational force. The energy-saving vehicle utilizes gravitational force as driving force, the vehicle body connects with the wheel by swing structure method or eccentric swing structure to utilize more gravitational force. The invention also provides solutions about two-wheel gravitational vehicle and multi-wheel vehicle and train connected by integrated vehicles or two-wheel vehicles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 24, 2008
    Publication date: August 13, 2009
    Inventor: Wen Lin Ren
  • Patent number: 7533751
    Abstract: In a motorcycle or a three-wheeled vehicle which tiltably supports a proximal end portion of a swing arm which pivotally supports a wheel on a vehicle body frame by way of a pivot shaft, the swing arm pivot structure is inexpensive and can be easily assembled without particularly using relatively expensive bearings such as taper bearings. At the same time, the preload adjustment is no longer necessary thus facilitating the assembling operation and the maintenance operation. A proximal portion of the pivot shaft is connected to the swing arm in a state wherein the proximal portion is non-rotatable relative to the swing arm. At the same time, a distal portion of the pivot shaft is fitted in and held by the vehicle body frame in a state wherein the distal portion is rotatable relative to the vehicle body frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2009
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Etsumi Handa, Katsumasa Mukai, Hisayoshi Kageyama
  • Patent number: 7469764
    Abstract: A frame assembly is described including a tunnel, an engine cradle disposed forward of the tunnel and connected thereto, and a sub-frame disposed forward of the engine cradle and connected thereto. A forward support assembly extends upwardly from the subframe. An upper column extends upwardly from the engine cradle to connect with the forward support assembly. A rear brace assembly extends upwardly from the tunnel to connect with the forward support assembly and the upper column. In one embodiment, the frame assembly further includes an engine disposed in the engine cradle. An endless track is operatively connected to the engine and disposed beneath the tunnel for propulsion. A pair of skis is operatively connected to a steering device for steering. In another embodiment, the frame assembly further includes an engine disposed in the engine cradle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Bombardier Recreational Products Inc.
    Inventors: Bruno Girouard, Berthold Fecteau, Jérôme Wubbolts, Anne-Marie Dion
  • Patent number: 7464781
    Abstract: A novel three-wheeled straddle type vehicle for operation by at least one rider is disclosed having a split radiator (52, 53) located on opposite sides of the vehicle frame. The location of the split radiator (52, 53) on the sides of the frame create a storage compartment in the front portion of the vehicle frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2008
    Assignee: Bombardier Recreational Product Inc.
    Inventors: Etienne Guay, Berthold Fecteau, Martin Aube, Bruno Girouard
  • Patent number: 7445070
    Abstract: A three wheel motorcycle with one leading front wheel and two driven rear wheels is capable of supporting increased dynamic loads of a V-8 automotive engine and transmission in addition to carrying up to three people and cargo. The body of the trike is integrated with the frame to ease manufacturing costs and improve the experience of the riders. Increased, versatile storage space is provided compared to prior art trikes, and the exhaust system is largely hidden beneath the body of the trike for improved appearance and safety.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2008
    Inventor: Gregory L. Pickering
  • Patent number: 7419024
    Abstract: A motortrike designed to allow individuals that use a wheelchair to independently operate it. The motortrike comprises a wheelchair frame assembly that secures onto a motorcycle frame, a movable platform assembly a transmission assembly, a power transfer assembly and a rear wheel assembly. An individual in a wheelchair may ride the wheelchair onto the platform assembly and lock the wheelchair thereon. A threshold ramp assembly is mounted to the rear of the platform assembly to minimize the transition from ground level to the platform member. The individual may operate the motortrike as a motor vehicle while transporting the wheelchair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2008
    Inventor: Christ Soter Tavantzis
  • Publication number: 20080115995
    Abstract: A brake is provided on a vehicle. The vehicle includes two drive wheels on two independent drive axles, respectively. The drive wheels are attached to the outside ends of the drive axles. Both drive wheels and drive axles (e.g., left and right) rotate on about the same axis as one another. On each drive axle, a brake disc is attached close to the inside end of the drive axle. A friction element (e.g., a brake friction material disc) is provided between the two brake discs. A brake device (e.g., brake caliper) is coupled to the frame of the vehicle. When the brake is applied, the brake device exerts a clamping force on the discs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2007
    Publication date: May 22, 2008
    Inventor: Ronald A. Holland
  • Patent number: 7374192
    Abstract: A system is provided that permits access to one or more components of the power train of a straddle type vehicle (or another internal component or components) without requiring such component to protrude from the body cover of the vehicle. The system can comprise a foot area that includes a foot platform for placing one's feet, an opening positioned above at least the component of the power train, and a cover for permitting the opening to be opened and closed. This system, for example, allows a user to access the oil filler port of the engine via the opening in the foot area in order to add oil to the engine of the vehicle. The system can also include a foot platform comprising a first level and a second level where the second level is located at a higher elevation relative to the first level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Yoshiyasu Mimasa
  • Patent number: 7343997
    Abstract: A tilting suspension system is adapted for use with a vehicle having three wheels and a frame. The system has two sets of control arms, each set of control arms being pivotally connected to one side of the frame. An upright is pivotally connected to each set of control arms, each upright having a rotatable hub for allowing one of the wheels to be mounted thereto. Two rocker arms are pivotally connected to the frame, and a control link is pivotally connected to each of the rocker arms, such that pivoting of one rocker arm causes corresponding pivoting of the other rocker arm. A link member operably connects each rocker arm to a corresponding upright, such that pivoting of each rocker arm causes corresponding movement of the uprights. An actuator is configured to selectively pivot the rocker arms, such that actuation of the actuator pivots the rocker arms, thereby causing the frame to rotate about a generally longitudinal roll center and causing each upright to rotate about a generally longitudinal axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2008
    Inventor: Lawayne Matthies
  • Patent number: 7311167
    Abstract: A left drive shaft and a right drive shaft each include an inside constant velocity joint and an outside constant velocity joint with a ball spline mechanism provided between the inside constant velocity joint and the outside constant velocity joint for enabling the distance between the inside constant velocity joint and the outside constant velocity joint to be contracted and extended. The ball spline mechanism includes a spline shaft having an outer circumferential surface provided with a plurality of axial grooves extending in the axial direction, a tubular portion surrounding the periphery of the spline shaft and having an inner circumferential surface provided with a plurality of axial grooves extending in the axial direction and a plurality of balls capable of rolling while being fitted in the axial grooves and in the axial grooves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2007
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shinji Takayanagi, Yohei Makata, Hiroyoshi Kobayashi
  • Patent number: 7255193
    Abstract: An HST propel system includes first and second pumps having displacements variable in response to movement of first (31) and second (33) control shafts, respectively; and a linkage arrangement for moving the control shafts in unison in response to movement of an operator input (37). The linkage arrangement comprises a crank arm (35) rotatable about its axis in response to movement of the input device, first (41) and second (51) input arms fixed relative to the crank arm, and first (45) and second (55) elongated control rods pivotally connected to the input arms. The system includes a swivel connector (43) cooperating with its input arm to define a swivel axis (S.A.1), fixed relative to the axis of the crank arm, and a swivel connector (53) cooperating with its input arm to define a swivel axis (S.A.2), moveable relative to the axis of the crank arm for straight tracking adjustment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Russell G. Miller, James M. Casey
  • Patent number: 7228931
    Abstract: A configuration of a three-wheeled agricultural applicator is provided that enhances visibility or the field of view of an operator. The three-wheeled agricultural applicator includes a frame assembly having a fork assembly and a kingpin extending generally upward therefrom. The three-wheeled agricultural applicator further includes a steering assembly that includes a steering wheel interlinked by a left steering actuator and a right steering actuator with a steering plate attached at the top of the kingpin. This configuration allows a hood associated with a drive unit of the three-wheeled agricultural applicator to be angled in a downward direction towards the forward direction of travel, thus enhancing the operator's field of view.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2007
    Assignee: CNH America LLC
    Inventors: Keith M. Ricke, Rex L. Ruppert
  • Patent number: 7228930
    Abstract: A mounting assembly for converting a two wheel vehicle to a three wheel vehicle. The mounting assembly includes a swing arm assembly having two arms connected by an intermediate member with each of the arms having a pivotal connector attached to one of their ends. A third link has a first end pivotally connected to the intermediate member and a second end free of the swing arm assembly. The mounting assembly may be adapted to fit the frames of Harley Davidson V-Rod model motorcycles by using arm extensions that connect the swing arm shaft assembly to the frame of the motorcycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2007
    Inventor: Jeffrey L. Vey
  • Patent number: 7172045
    Abstract: A motortricycle with oscillation mechanism including left and right suspension arms respectively swingably mounted onto a vehicle body frame, rear wheels mounted respectively onto the outer portions of the left and right suspension arms. An oscillation mechanism permitting leftward and rightward oscillation of the vehicle body frame relative to the side of the suspension arms is provided between the suspension arms and the vehicle body frame, and an engine for driving the left and right rear wheels is mounted onto the vehicle body frame. Since the engine of the motortricycle is mounted on the vehicle body frame rather than on the suspension arms, weight on the suspension arms can be largely reduced, and the riding comfort can be further enhanced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2007
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Shinji Takayanagi, Yohei Makuta, Hiroyoshi Kobayashi, Masahiro Kuroki, Haruomi Sugita
  • Patent number: 7059441
    Abstract: A mount frame includes a first frame unit having a first rear frame portion which is provided with an anchoring member and a gripped member. A second frame unit has a second front frame portion provided with a seat post, an anchored member which is disposed to be journalled on the anchoring member about a rotational axis. Thus, the second frame unit is rotatable relative to the axis to facilitate assembly of the first rear frame portion and the second front frame portion. A gripping member is disposed on the second front frame portion to confront the gripped member. A tightening unit is disposed to push the gripping member to abut tightly against the gripped member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Assignee: Kwang Yang Motor Co. Ltd.
    Inventor: Jui-Tien Chen
  • Patent number: 6883629
    Abstract: A vehicle has a chassis with a front and rear ends and at least one front wheel mounted on the front end. A one-sided swing arm having an outer end portion, a support portion including a strut assembly, and an inner end portion is pivotally mounted on the rear end of the chassis. A wheel mounting assembly is disposed on the outer end portion of the swing arm, and a rear wheel which is interchangeable with the front wheel is mounted thereon. In one embodiment, the vehicle includes steering means for pivoting the front wheel about a first vertical axis to control the direction of movement of the vehicle, and a hub and pivot means mounting the hub on the outer end of the swing arm for pivotal movement of the rear wheel about a second vertical axis. The rear wheel is rotatably supported on the hub and naturally tracks the front wheel in a cooperating turning arc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Assignee: Corbin Pacific, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael W. Hanagan
  • Patent number: 6827361
    Abstract: A rear wheel suspension device for saddle ride vehicle which does not influence the riding space for the rider even where the stroke of rear wheels is enlarged. A suspension arm includes an oscillation center and an oscillation end portion. The oscillation center is vertically oscillatably fitted to a vehicle body frame, and the oscillation end portion is fitted with the axle of a rear wheel. The oscillation axis of the suspension arm is inclined so as to be higher on the front side than on the rear side of the saddle ride vehicle. As a result, the moving direction of the rear wheels is rearwards and upwards. With this configuration, the vertical stoke of the rear wheels can be enlarged, without having the rear wheels interfere with the rear fenders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Bunzo Seki
  • Patent number: 6766876
    Abstract: A rear wheel suspension system for a four-wheeled vehicle suitable for attaining vehicle weight reduction, setting weight distribution of the vehicle, improving vehicle design freedom, and decreasing the number of components as compared to conventional rear wheel suspension systems. The system includes a joint member mounted in a rear portion of a vehicle body with a pair of left and right front wheels secured thereto, the joint member including a roll shaft extending substantially in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle body, and connecting to a vertical swing shaft extending in the transverse direction of the vehicle body. In addition, a power unit for supporting the two rear wheels is connected to a rear portion of the joint member by means of the vertical swing shaft, thereby allowing the power unit to be secured to the vehicle body rollably and swingably.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2004
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Takashi Ozeki, Shinji Takayanagi, Hiroyoshi Kobayashi, Shinji Furuta, Takuya Tagami, Hirosi Takamoto
  • Patent number: 6761238
    Abstract: A joint case includes a flange, a joint shaft extending from the flange, and a case main body fitted to the joint shaft. The flange is fitted to a rear portion of a front vehicle body, whereas the side of the case main body of the joint case is fitted to a rear vehicle body. With the above construction of the joint case, the distance between the front vehicle body and the rear vehicle body can be reduced, and a reduction in the overall length of the tricycle can be obtained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2004
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Takuya Tagami, Takashi Ozeki, Mitsuo Nakagawa
  • Patent number: 6732830
    Abstract: Various embodiments of a saddle type vehicle are described. Configurations are shown in which the engine is located more towards the rear of the vehicle and in which the fuel tank extends generally vertically beneath the steering member. A radiator may also be located at a rear portion of the vehicle, rearwardly of the engine. A front storage compartment is also provided in the front portion of the vehicle. The resulting vehicle has improved access and storage capabilities and also has a lower center of gravity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2004
    Assignee: Bombardier Recreational Products Inc.
    Inventors: Claude Gagnon, Paul Deutschman, John F. Gale
  • Patent number: 6719084
    Abstract: An exhaust system for a two-cylinder V-engine, having front and rear cylinders and mounted on a saddle-type all-terrain vehicle, includes a muffler disposed behind the two-cylinder V-engine and provided with two connecting openings, a front-cylinder exhaust pipe having one end connected to the exhaust port of the front cylinder, and a rear-cylinder exhaust pipe having one end connected to the rear cylinder. The front-cylinder exhaust pipe is bent so as to extend rearward along side surfaces of the front and the rear cylinders to the muffler and is detachably connected to the connecting opening. The rear-cylinder exhaust pipe is fitted in the other connecting opening and is welded to the muffler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Assignee: Kawasaki Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yasuhiro Kuji, Yuichi Kawamoto
  • Patent number: 6626260
    Abstract: A straddle-type vehicle has configurations in which the engine is located more towards the rear of the vehicle and the fuel tank extends generally vertically beneath the steering member. A radiator may also be located at a rear portion of the vehicle, rearwardly of the engine. A front storage compartment s also provided in the front portion of the vehicle. The resulting vehicle has improved access and storage capabilities and also has a lower center of gravity. The engine may be a four stroke engine, which is more environmentally friendly than a two stroke engine. Because of the increased space requirements of a four stroke engine, a secondary portion of the engine is provided forward of the seat to define an uppermost portion that defines a bottom portion of an access area that the user uses to mount and dismount the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2003
    Assignee: Bombardier Inc.
    Inventors: Claude Gagnon, John Gale, Paul Deutschman
  • Patent number: 6547027
    Abstract: An all terrain vehicle, also known as an ATV, has a seat designed to comfortably accommodate a rider over a wide variety of rugged terrain. The seat is profiled so that the rider may easily shift body weight and lean with the vehicle while traversing steep and uneven terrain. The seat has a dip and taper positioned beneath a riders' knee and lower thigh to provide the profile. The ATV is also provided with front fenders and mud flaps to protect the rider from debris. The fenders rotate with the wheel to provide the rider with maximum wheel visibility and access. The fenders can also be releasable, thereby rotating around the axis of rotation of the front wheels to break free from obstacles and provide easy access to the wheels beneath the fender. The ATV provides exceptional rider comfort and control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: Bombardier Inc.
    Inventors: David Kalhok, Pierre Rondeau, Martin Portelance
  • Patent number: 6533060
    Abstract: An all terrain vehicle comprises a frame supported by at least a left wheel and a right wheel. The left wheel and the right wheel being connected to said frame by a left suspension and a right suspension respectively. The independently suspended wheels preferably are drive wheels. The wheels are driven by an engine through a transmission. The transmission is connected to the left wheel by a left half shaft and to the right wheel by a right half shaft. Constant velocity couplings are used to coupling the half shafts to the respective wheels and to the transmission. The constant velocity couplings connecting the two half shafts to the transmission are joined in a single housing. The housing includes a body portion and a gear portion. The two portions can be integrally formed. A left cage and a right cage are mounted within a left axial bore and a right axial bore formed in the body portion. The cages are secured for rotation with the body portion but can move axially within the respective bores.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Minoru Seto
  • Patent number: 6523634
    Abstract: A straddle-type vehicle, or all terrain vehicle, has an engine located towards the rear of the vehicle such that a main portion of the engine, or power unit, is disposed beneath the seat. The fuel tank extends generally vertically beneath the steering member. The radiator is located at a rear portion of the vehicle rearwardly of the engine where it is protected from collisions and objects striking the front grille. A front storage compartment is also provided in the front portion of the vehicle. The vehicle also has a pivotally connected and removable seat for easy access to the engine. There is also a gap between the seat and the front wheel well through which the driver can pass his feet or where an optional container or auxiliary fuel tank can be secured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Assignee: Bombardier Inc.
    Inventors: Claude Gagnon, Paul Deutschman, John F. Gale
  • Patent number: 6328304
    Abstract: The invention provides a game apparatus which is in the nature of a vehicle or an attachment for a vehicle, the vehicle being operated by a driver, who travels with the vehicle. The idea is that the apparatus is equipped to receive from a play surface, hold and propel over the play surface a play member, in particular a ball. The apparatus can be described as a motorized version of football. The apparatus has an inlet by which the ball is received, and either the ball is propelled back out of the inlet or out of either of one or more separate outlets in the apparatus. When the ball enters the inlet it is held by a holding plate which rests, by gravity, on the top of the ball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2001
    Assignee: Econ Engineering Limited
    Inventor: William George Lupton
  • Patent number: 6068537
    Abstract: The present invention is a vehicle, preferably a powered vehicle, which is adapted to play a game in which a ball (20), rolling free on a play surface (16), can be caught by the vehicle, held by the vehicle whilst it moves over the surface (16), and under the control of the driver, propelled to either side of the vehicle, to for example, shoot at a goal, or to pass to another player in a team, or to aim at an impact sensitive pad on the vehicle of an opposing team. The invention also related to a new method of steering vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2000
    Assignee: Go Sport Ltd
    Inventor: William George Lupton
  • Patent number: 5950751
    Abstract: A chassis for a single seat dirigible electric battery-powered personal transportation vehicle is formed by a central elongated beam having a front end and a rear end. A wheeled drive mechanism is mounted on the rear end of the beam. A swivel seat is mounted on the frame in overlying relation to the drive mechanism. A front battery support frame is mounted on the front end of the beam. Spaced apart side plates secured to the front battery support frame support a wheel suspension and steering mechanism. Side battery support frames are mounted on the beam rearwardly adjacent the front battery support frame and extending rearwardly and outwardly from the beam. Batteries mounted in the battery support frames provide electric power to the vehicle and provide a counterbalance to the seat and drive mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Assignee: SoloRider Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald R. McComber
  • Patent number: 5890558
    Abstract: A cleaning vehicle including an all-wheel steering mechanism. First, second and third wheels are mounted to the vehicle for rotation about respective first, second and third rotational axes and for pivotal movement about respective first, second and third pivot axes. The first and second wheels are located transversely across from one another and are both driven by a drive mechanism. The steering mechanism includes a pivot arm pivotally attached to the vehicle. A first steering linkage operatively connects the pivot arm to the first wheel, a second steering linkage operatively connects the pivot arm to the second wheel, and a third steering linkage operatively connects the pivot arm to the third wheel. Pivotal movement of the pivot arm causes conjoint pivotal movement of the first and second wheels in a first pivotal direction and pivotal movement of the third wheel in a second opposite pivotal direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 6, 1999
    Assignee: Minuteman International, Inc.
    Inventor: Philip R. Keegan
  • Patent number: 5775457
    Abstract: An axle for a vehicle includes an elongated shaft having a first end, a second end and an intermediate portion being disposed therebetween. The elongated shaft includes a predetermined diameter extending over a portion thereof. The first end of the elongated shaft being designed for mounting a first wheel thereon. The second end of the elongated shaft being designed for mounting a second wheel thereon. The intermediate portion includes a flange extending a predetermined distance along the length of the axle, the flange being designed for mounting and positioning a drive gear assembly and a brake drum assembly relative to each other with the flange being disposed therebetween. The flange is provided as an enlarged diameter section having a diameter greater than the predetermined diameter extending over a portion thereof and is displaced to one side relative to a center section of the elongated shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1998
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kabushika Kaisha
    Inventors: Akio Handa, Bunzo Seki