Abstract: A radio-control toy vehicle is provided with six nonsteerable wheels, three on each lateral side of the vehicle. At least the center wheel on each lateral side is drivingly coupled with a separate, reversible motor. The vehicle is steered by controlling the operation and direction of each motor. The wheels are arranged and the vehicle statically balanced such that the vehicle is supported by the center pair of wheels and one of the two remaining front and rear pairs of wheels, preferably the rear pair of wheels, when the vehicle is stationary on a level, horizontal surface.

Abstract: A gas-powered engine assembly is mounted on a carriage supported over the rear tire of a conventional bicycle. The assembly includes a small internal combustion engine supported on the carriage and a driven polyurethane friction wheel for propelling the rear bicycle tire. The assembly includes a compression spring within the carriage tending to move the carriage and engine drive wheel out of engagement with the bicycle rear tire, and a cable and clutch arrangement for lowering the drive wheel into engagement with the bicycle rear tire. A horizontally moveable strut associated with the carriage is selectively manipulated by a manually operated clutch control, whereby the engine drive wheel is moved from an operative to a non-operative position. The output engine drive arrangement includes a multiple tooth cog located within a pocket formed in the drive wheel, for providing a flexible drive mechanism for accommodating possible defects such as a slightly out of round and/or unbalanced tire and the like.

Abstract: An in-line fluid medium driven charging system includes a fluid medium driven generator disposed in a fluid medium directing tube. The fluid medium driven generator includes an auger shaped, fluid medium engaging member and is coupled to an electrical generator. Rotation of the auger shaped, fluid medium engaging member by intercepting a flow of a fluid medium causes rotation of the electrical generator, thereby generating electrical energy which recharges and assists in maintaining the life of a battery in a moving vehicle.

Abstract: An adjustable lounge is adapted to be knocked-down in kit-form for shipping and/or storage purposes and expeditiously assembled on-site. The knocked-down lounge comprises a base frame having a sub-frame and a pair of base side panels adapted for attachment to lateral sides of the sub-frame. A canopy frame comprises a pair of canopy side panels and a plurality of cross-struts adapted for attachment between the canopy side panels. The canopy frame is adapted to be pivotally mounted on the base frame to permit the canopy frame to be moved by user-controlled actuating means through an infinite number of positions between a normal upright position and a lowered position, placing the back of the canopy frame in at least general horizontal alignment with the top of the base frame. The lounge is adapted for selective rotation in a circular path about a vertically disposed axis whereby the frontal side of the canopy can be moved to a selected rotative position for sunning and/or viewing purposes.

Abstract: A dual rear axle system for large vehicles in which the vehicle has a frame, and the axle system includes a forward axle housing, a draft arm having one arm affixed to the forward axle housing and the other pivotally affixed to the vehicle frame, a rearward axle housing spaced from and parallel to the forward axle housing, an axle extending through both axle housings having wheels and tires thereon, an upper linkage having one end pivotally attached to the upper portion of the forward axle housing and the other end pivotally attached to the upper portion of the rearward axle housing, lower linkage having one end pivotally attached to the lower portion of the forward axle housing and the other end pivotally attached to the lower portion of the rearward axle housing so that the axle housings are supported in spaced apart relationship with the axle housings independently free to move in vertical planes and compressible strut members extending between the axle housings and the frame for spring supporting the fram

Abstract: A robot transport platform adapted for locomotion, having a base with three wheels on each side. Of the three wheels on each side, the wheels near the fore end and the aft end are omnidirectional wheels; the intermediate wheel in between the omnidirectional wheels is a conventional wheel. The omnidirectional wheels have staggered rows of spherical rollers rotatably mounted to the circumference of the wheel's hub. More precisely, the rollers are mounted to annular shafts that circumscribe the circumference of the hub, and are supported in an overlying position over the hub by radially extending spokes. Anti-rattle washers are provided in between adjacent rollers. Torque is provided by two electric motors independently operating the wheels on each side. Torque is transferred to the wheels via a gear box, a chain, and cogged drive belts. The robot transport platform is controlled by radio and accordingly has a radio receiver mounted to the base. Servo controllers are used to control the motors and gear box.

Abstract: The invention relates to an electric propulsion system for a multi-wheeled vehicle including though not limited to a bicycle. The preferred embodiment consists of a standard street bicycle with multi-speed transmission, plus an electrical propulsion system and a solar charging apparatus. This preferred embodiment is normally powered by a combination of motor and pedals, coupled such that either or both may provide power at any time.

Abstract: A hydrant refueler is provided for refueling an aircraft. The hydrant refueler is suitable for use in an airport having a hydrant for supplying fuel. The hydrant refueler includes a hydrant cart and a self propelled land vehicle. The hydrant cart includes a fuel hose for coupling to the hydrant, and a delivery fuel hose for coupling to a fuel intake valve of the aircraft. The land vehicle includes a platform for supporting a refueling operator during transportation and during refueling. The platform may be raised and lowered. The platform has controls for operating the land vehicle, and for raising and lowering the platform. The hydrant cart may be attached to the land vehicle for transporting and controlling the hydrant cart. During operation, one end of the delivery fuel hose is raised with the platform to a height for coupling with the aircraft fuel intake valve for conducting fuel to the airplane. The land vehicle and hydrant cart are detached from one another for maintenance and repair.

Abstract: An automotive truck for moving a robot along a surface comprises a chassis and at least one platform hingedly connected to the chassis at one end of the platform. A drive wheel is rotatably mounted to the platform. A spring is connected at an opposite end of the platform pressing the drive wheel against the surface.

Abstract: The invention is to a wind charging system for an automobile which includes a wind driven turbine blade that is attached to a plurality of alternators by a gearing system. The gearing system includes a large gear driving a plurality of small gears, each attached to an alternator. The system is mounted in a single frame that mount in the engine compartment of a standard automobile.

Abstract: This invention consists of two parts, an air dam attached to the lower front end of a motor vehicle and a spoiler attached to the upper rear end of the vehicle, with rotors and generators integrated into each of these parts. The rotors have horizontal axes and fixed blades running the length of the axes and extending symmetrically no more than a few inches from the axes, each blade being curved in the same direction. Two electric generators are attached to each rotor by short rods at both ends. Air current passing around the vehicle turns the rotors and generates electricity, while the air dam and spoiler counteract the drag created by the rotors and improve the overall drag coefficient of the vehicle.

Abstract: An electric motor-driven vehicle has a large wind turbine mounted at the rear of the vehicle that rotates about an axis perpendicular to the axis of the vehicle body. A long venturi tube extends along the upper portion of the vehicle above the passenger cab and directs air flow from the front of the vehicle and impinges it upon an upper portion of the turbine blades. A pair of elongated lower screw-type turbines are contained in separate lower venturi effect tubes extending along the lower side of the vehicle below the passenger cab. Air from the lower venturi effect tubes is impinged upon the large turbine in a direction and at a location to increase the force generated from the upper venturi tube. The turbines drive one or more electric power generators coupled to storage batteries for recharging the batteries.

Abstract: The present invention provides a bowling-lane maintenance machine having a driving mechanism which includes four turnable drive units and four lift cylinders. Each of the drive units includes a lane running wheel, a ride-on-approach and transverse running wheel having a diameter larger than that of the lane running wheel, and a drive motor operatively connected with the wheels. When the bowling-lane maintenance machine is moved on the approach by the rotation of the ride-on-approach and transverse running wheels, the lane running wheels will not be brought into contact with the surface of the approach. When the bowling-lane maintenance machine is lifted under the actuation of the lift cylinders, the drive units may be turned to change the direction of movement in which the machine is to be moved.

Abstract: A hybrid electric vehicle (10) capable of ground travel and air travel is described. The vehicle provides for movement over the ground by wheel motors (20) mounted at each of four ground engaging wheels (14 and 16). The wheel motors are supplied with electric power by a battery pack (24) or an electric generator (32) powered by a combustion engine (22). The combustion engine is also geared to vertically oriented ducted fans (40) and a horizontally oriented ducted fan or propeller (76) for providing the vehicle with the capability of travel through the air. Pressure jets (62), supplied with compressed air from a compressor (66) driven by the combustion engine, augment the lift of the ducted fans and provide steering for the vehicle. The vehicle can also be provided with photo-electric cells (82) for supplying a portion of the electric power for the vehicle.

Abstract: The adjustable windmobile allows the mobilist to maintain a stable center of gravity by manually adjusting both the seat and mast to their respective opposite sides when the direction of motion of the windmobile is reversed. Both the seat and mast base are encased in crosspieces, that are part of the frame, that allow the seat and mast to be slid to the opposite sides. There are four mast halyards, a fore halyard, a stern halyard, and two midships halyards. Under sail only three halyards are taut while the fourth, a midships halyard hangs loose. When readjusting the mast to the other side, the halyards do not have to be readjusted.

Abstract: An active suspension system for use with a mass suspended relative to a movable structure and subject to external forces such as the chassis of off-road vehicles, and in particular the hull of heavy combat vehicles, has a passive hydropneumatic suspension system (PHSS) connected to a servopump and an accumulator, and wherein the servopump transfers fluid energy between the accumulator and the suspension system, in accordance with sensed operating conditions which are inputted to a processor whose output commands the velocity of the servopump to control the pressure and volume relationships of the PHSS and accumulator to improve the ride of said vehicle and to substantially reduce energy requirements when operating off-road.

Abstract: A vehicle suspension uses actuators between sprung and unsprung masses, each actuator comprising a brushless dynamoelectric machine having a low inertia rotor engaged with a rotary/linear motion converter or conversion between dynamoelectric machine torque and linear actuator force. A control circuit for each machine applies current from an electric power source to the dynamoelectric machine in response to rotor position sensors and an input control signal to produce a desired actuator force providing motoring or generating action by the dynamoelectric machine. A common supply bus connecting the electric power source and dynamoelectric machines allows the dynamoelectric machines in generating mode to provide electric power to the dynamoelectric machines in motoring mode. Transient storage capacitors across the supply bus, current limiting from the supply bus to the storage battery, a dump resistance and dump switch responsive to battery voltage, and a supplementary alternator are also provided.

Abstract: A transportion system including a solar energy collecting monorail structure formed with a photovoltaic surface layer having a solar energy converting means for converting the collected solar energy to electrical energy. A power distribution means for distributing stored energy to transit vehicles being propelled along the monorail structure or distributing excess energy to a remote power utility source. The monorail structure includes means for propelling a transit vehicle according to magnetic principals associated with transverse flux motors. The system also includes a computer controlled, elevation compensating monorail structure extrusion machine comprising a fabrication chamber which continuously fabricates the monorail structure along a monorail construction right-of-way.

Abstract: A tridem rear drive axle system (100) comprising a front-rear drive axle assembly (112) a middle-rear drive axle assembly (22) and a rear-rear drive assembly (24) is provided wherein torque is distributed substantially equally to each of the three rear drive axles. The front-rear drive axle assembly (112) includes a first input shaft (118) for driving the front-rear drive axle gear set and a second input shaft (114) for driving a through shaft (116) drivingly connected to the middle-rear drive axle assembly (22) which is of a standard forward tandem axle design. A transfer case (102) having a first output shaft (108) for connection to the first input shaft and a second output shaft (106) for connection to the second input shaft is provided. The transfer case provides twice the torque to the second transfer case output shaft than is provided to the first transfer case output shaft.

Abstract: The invention relates to a center drive car, having conventional steerable front wheels and rear wheels. The center drive has either roller or paired wheel traction. These are mounted on a swivel, which is directionally slave controlled by the conventional steering. A small motor, either directly linked via a differential, or more preferably via a hydraulic circuit including a differential, drives the central roller or wheels. The swivel is preferably retractable, by a lifting device, which may be operator controlled, or speed controlled by a governor. The center drive can be used under limited speed conditions, in a vehicle for urban use, where it would be more economical than a conventional high speed engine. It can also be used in a conventional vehicle under limited speed conditions, instead of the conventional engine.

Abstract: An all-terrain vehicle including centrally pivoted bogies on opposite sides of the vehicle body with main wheels and auxiliary wheels mounted on opposite ends of the bogies with the auxiliary wheels extending further outwardly from the vehicle body than the main wheels, stabilizing sockets on the bogies for receiving arms mounted on the vehicle body for supporting the bogies against lateral deflection, a linkage including an elongated link extending crosswise of the vehicle body and pivotally mounted on a standard, and links mounted between the ends of the elongated link and the bogies for effectively coupling bogies on opposite sides of the vehicle body to each other. A positive drive is provided to both the main wheels and the auxiliary wheels to cause them to rotate at the same peripheral speeds.

Abstract: A transportation system including a solar energy collecting monorail structure formed with a photovoltaic surface layer having a solar energy converting means for converting the collected solar energy to electrical energy. A power distribution means for distributing stored energy to transit vehicles being propelled along the monorail structure or distributing excess energy to a remote power utility source. The monorail structure includes means for propelling a transit vehicle according to magnetic principals associated with transverse flux motors. The system also includes a computer controlled, elevation compensating monorail structure extrusion machine comprising a fabrication chamber which continuously fabricates the monorail structure along a monorail construction right-of-way.

Abstract: An all-terrain vehicle having two bogies movably joined at their inner ends and pivotally mounted on each side of the vehicle and two main wheels mounted on the ends of one of the bogies and a third wheel mounted on the other end of the other bogie. The outer ends of the bogies extend beyond the vehicle body and have auxiliary wheels mounted on such outer ends on the opposite sides of the bogies from the main wheels. A gear drive is provided for driving each of the auxiliary wheels at the same peripheral speed as the main wheels. The vehicle can also have a limited differential for permitting limited relative rotational motion between wheels on opposite sides of the differential but supplying a positive drive thereto at the end of such limited travel. The vehicle can also have a torsion bar drive or a limited travel torsion bar drive between the various bogie-mounted wheels to thereby permit relative rotational movement therebetween while still providing positive drives thereto.

Abstract: A rough terrain vehicle is described which includes auxiliary wheels that can be deployed to avoid overturning the vehicle when turning while traversing a slope, to climb an embankment or the like, and to right the vehicle when it is overturned. The vehicle includes a pair of front and rear primary wheels, and a pair of auxiliary arms having inner ends pivotally mounted on the front wheel axes and outer ends that carry auxiliary wheels. A motor can turn the arms to move the auxiliary wheels from a stowed position about halfway between the front and rear wheels and above the ground, to a second position against the ground to stabilize the vehicle. The arms can be turned more than 180.degree. to move the auxiliary wheels in front of the front primary wheels to help climb an embankment. The primary wheels can be mounted at the end of primary arms, so when the primary arms are turned they not only move the primary front wheels but also the inner ends of the auxiliary arms.

Abstract: An active suspension system for use with a mass suspended relative to a movable structure and subject to external forces such as the chassis of off-road vehicles, and in particular the hull of heavy combat vehicles, has a passive hydropneumatic suspension system (PHSS) connected to a servopump and an accumulator, and wherein the servopump transfers fluid energy between the accumulator and the suspension system, in accordance with sensed operating conditions which are inputted to a processor whose output commands the velocity of the servopump to control the pressure and volume relationships of the PHSS and accumulator to improve the ride of said vehicle and to substantially reduce energy requirements when operating off-road.

Abstract: A transportation system including a solar energy collecting monorail structure formed with a photovoltaic surface layer having a solar energy converting means for converting the collected solar energy to electrical energy. A power distribution means for distributing stored energy to transit vehicles being propelled along the monorail structure or distributing excess energy to a remote power utility source. The monorail structure includes means for propelling a transit vehicle according to magnetic principals associated with transverse flux motors. The system also includes a computer controlled, elevation compensating monorail structure extrusion machine comprising a fabrication chamber which continuously fabricates the monorail structure along a monorail construction right-of-way.

Abstract: An all-wheel-drive off-highway heavy truck comprising a cab (1) and a platform (2) mounted on a chassis which is rigid about the vertical axis. This chassis is mounted on front and rear axle sets (4, 5), each comprising front and rear axles and four wheels (41, 43, 51, 53). The wheels of the front axle set (4) are steered and the front axles include constant velocity joints, the axles of the front set being otherwise similar to the axles of the rear set. The suspensions of the axle sets (4, 5) include leaf spring stacks connected between the front and rear axles of the relevant set at each side, and clamped in a central portion to a pivot axis (83) about which the axles can pivot. Reaction rods connect the axles with the pivot axis. Hydraulic telescopic shock absorbers are connected between the axles of the front set and the chassis.

Abstract: An air-portable all-terrain vehicle is provided with six wheels on three equidistant axles all driven from a single engine via two transfer boxes and differential gear units on each axle. The axles are fully floating beam axles on long travel coil springs and controlled by radius arms and Panhard rods. The radius arms may be parallel to and co-extensive with the respective propeller shafts coupling the differential gears to the transfer boxes and the connections between the propeller shafts and the transfer box outputs may include torsional vibration dampers. A dual circuit braking system with a deceleration sensing valve can be provided to limit the hydraulic pressure to the front wheel brakes. Loading/unloading in the field is facilitated by demountable side panels serving also as loading ramps.

Abstract: An all-terrain vehicle having six wheels with three wheels on each side. Two of the wheels on each side are mounted on one pivotal bogie, and one wheel is mounted on another pivotal bogie, and the bogies are coupled to each other to always assume the same inclination to the horizontal centerline of the vehicle chassis in all pivotal positions thereof. The wheels may be round, or they may be oblate for greater traction. Certain of the oblate wheels on each side of the vehicle are oriented with their axes at 90.degree. to each other in all pivotal positions thereof, and the compensating action of the pivoting bogies will cause the vehicle body to remain perfectly level on level ground as the oblate wheels rotate. The outer wheels, whether round or oblate can be raised or lowered relative to the vehicle body, while the center wheel moves in an opposite direction. All wheels are positively driven by gearing which includes gearing in the bogies.

Abstract: A tractor having a high power-to-weight ratio (power 100 kw, weight 3500 kg) is obtained by using light-weight components (e.g., made from synthetic resin) for the cab, and by making the wheels smaller than is usual, i.e., with a diameter of 1.3 meters, and from aluminum or other light-weight material. Tractor is improved by providing an implement or implements which, in operation, are driven form power take-off shafts and act to propel the tractor.

Abstract: A solar-powered rapid transit system is provided, which travels suspended above ground along a horizontal rail, supported by vertical/horizontal supports. The guide rail is basically a parallelogram, with five inner surfaces. It can be configured as either an overhead monorail system, or a birail system. The rail car is attached to and suspended from such rail by power transmission and support shafts, each of which attaches to a wheel box that fits into the horizontal guide rail. Power is transmitted to the wheels in each wheel box from several electric motors by a series of pulleys and belts in a unique configuration. Such wheels then propel the rail car or cars, which can be connected in series, down the rail. Power for electric motors is supplied by rectangular solar panels supported by vertical supports attached to the roof of each rail car, which extend several feet above the rail car and guide rails.

Abstract: A solar cell array is disclosed having a support structure, cover, and mechanically joined solar cell panels. Each panel, or group of panels, is electrically connected across a separate battery and a diode is provided to provide separate charging of each battery and to prevent flow of current to the solar cells from the batteries.

Abstract: A wheel vehicle for traversing rough uneven terrain. One set of load bearing wheels is used in conjunction with secondary wheels that are placed such that the secondary wheels bridge the spacing between the load bearing wheels below the horizontal axis of the load bearing wheels sufficiently to prevent any ground projection from engaging such a space to impede movement of the vehicle.

Abstract: A heavy duty display cart (10) disclosed comprises a carriage (14) for supporting an object to be displayed, such as a vehicle (12). A reversible drive mechanism (16) is supported below the carriage (14) for rotation with respect thereto about a vertical axis (A). The drive mechanism (16) includes a pair of drive wheels (18) and a pair of reversible drive motors (20) respectively coupled to the pair of drive wheels to provide rotation of the drive mechanism about the vertical axis (A) or movement of the cart. A magnetic latch mechanism (22) on the carriage (14) and drive mechanism (16) fixes the rotational location of the drive mechanism with respect to the carriage in first, second, third, and fourth positions spaced at 45 degree intervals about the vertical axis (A) and provides ten directions of movement of the cart (10) upon reverse driving of the drive mechanism. A radio receiver (23) operates the drive mechanism (16) and the magnetic latch mechanism (22).

Abstract: A six-wheeled motor vehicle has a pair of front wheels, a pair of middle wheels and a pair of rear wheels. These six wheels are supported on a frame and driven by an engine. The vehicle has the arrangement in which the engine is disposed between the axles of the middle wheel and the rear wheel, or, in a second embodiment, between the axles of the front wheel and the middle wheel. A footrest is disposed between the front wheel and the middle wheel in the first embodiment, and between the middle wheel and the rear wheel in the second embodiment. Due to this arrangement, the load on each wheel is substantially equalized with each other.

Abstract: A thin film photovoltaic module has transparent electrodes on front and back surfaces of a semiconductive layer. In one embodiment, both transparent electrodes pass light to the semiconductive layer for photovoltaic purposes. In another embodiment, the back electrode passes light which enters through the front electrode and is not absorbed by the semiconductive layer, so that the module is selectively transparent to the unabsorbed light. The spectral makeup of the transmitted light is controlled by controlling the optical characteristics of the layers of the module. The index of refraction of the back electrode is a primary source of transmission control, along with the refractive index of the front electrode and the thickness of the semiconductive layer itself. Light transmitted by the module can be used for nonphotovoltaic purposes, such as illuminating the interior of a vehicle or dwelling, or may be directed back into the semiconductive layer by a reflective surface behind the back electrode.

Abstract: An air spoiler apparatus with solar cells includes an air spoiler wing mounted on an outer surface of a vehicle body, solar cells mounted on an upper surface of the air spoiler wing, a running detector for detecting a running state of a vehicle, and an elevation angle adjustment unit of the air spoiler wing. The air spoiler elevation angle adjustment unit adjusts an elevation angle of the air spoiler wing within select angular ranges to increase power generation efficiency of the solar cells during parking, stopping, low-speed or high speed running represented by the running state detected by the running detector. During high speed operation the angular range is restricted to an optimum range for aerodynamic efficiency.

Abstract: A kit for use alone as an iceboat or for easy mounting on a canoe to convert the canoe to a sailboat, includes a light-weight, rectangular frame with a front crossbar for receiving a mast, a rear crossbar for supporting a seat and a rear ice runner, and a pair of arms which can be folded against the frame or extended outwardly from the front crossbar for receiving front ice runners or portions of their outer ends.

Abstract: A generator and brake systems for use with land vehicles. A freewheeling device is provided that allows a driven shaft to rotate at a speed greater than that of a driving shaft. A generator is associated with the drive shaft directly or with a shaft operatively associated with a driven shaft, and is selectively engageable with the driven shaft to generate electricity for operating components of the vehicle. A flywheel accumulates energy during braking or downhill coasting of the vehicle and a linkage is provided so that the flywheel is rotated when it is desired to brake rotation of the axle. Subsequently, the flywheel is disengaged from the shaft and rotates a generator that produces electricity to run components of the vehicle. Another generator is provided that is driven by air pressure encountered during movement of the vehicle and also when the vehicle is parked facing in the direction of a relatively strong wind.

Abstract: There is described a vehicle or vehicle frame including a first elongated sub-frame and a second sub-frame rotatably connected to one end of the first sub-frame for pivotal movement about the longitudinal axis of the first sub-frame. A walking beam is provided at each of the elongated sides of the first sub-frame in parallel, spaced apart relation thereto. A walking beam pivot assembly extends transversely across the first sub-frame adjacent the other end of the first sub-frame and each of the walking beams is pivotally connected at a point intermediate along its length to a respective outer end of the pivot assembly whereby each walking beam is suspended for independent pivotal movement in its own vertical plane. A connector is provided to join a first end of each walking beam to the adjacent end of the second sub-frame to permit simultaneous pivotal movements of the walking beams and the second sub-frame in their respective, mutually perpendicular vertical planes.

Abstract: A reach back carrier includes a self-propelled tractor and a wheeled trailer having a generally U-shaped frame with rearwardly projecting side members and a forwardly projecting integral gooseneck pivotally connected to the tractor to permit turning thereof at substantially right angles, a cradle is pivotally mounted adjacent the rear ends of the side members and adapted to engage trunnions on the pot.

Abstract: A remote control robot vehicle which includes at least two pairs of wheels, at least one pair of which is driven, said pairs of wheels being mounted on a support secured to the vehicle which supports are each mounted for pivotal movement about a generally horizontal axis extending longitudinally of the vehicle, those wheels on the same side of the vehicle being capable of being driven synchronously.

Abstract: A flexible amorphous silicon solar battery comprising a metal foil as the substrate thereof, an insulating layer integrally formed on the metal foil, and at least one amorphous silicon photoelectric conversion portion formed on the insulating layer. The amorphous silicon photoelectric conversion portion thereof comprises an a-Si thin film having a potential barrier therein, an upper electrode and a lower electrode. The a-Si thin film is sandwiched between the upper and lower electrodes. The upper electrodes may be formed of a transparent conductive film. The transparent conductive film may be also in two layers composed of a relatively thin tin dioxide film and a relatively thick ITO film thereby to lower the resistance of transparent conductive film and to obtain a superior a-Si thin film having no impurity particles therein. A plurality of a-Si photoelectric conversion portions may be formed on the same substrate, and are connected in series with one another, to increase the output voltage thereof.

Abstract: This electric automobile is so designed, as to obtain a mileage range up to four hundred miles, as compared with present electrics, which attain only a range of forty miles, and this electric automobile attains a speed of sixty miles per hour, as compared with the forty obtained of such cars. Primarily, it consists of a small motor which drives a D.C. generator, which supplies current to drive the car's drive motor. It further includes batteries, which are aided in replenishing their current by a solar cell bank, which produces electricity from the rays of the sun and other light.

Abstract: A solar powered vehicle utilizing incident solar radiation to charge storage batteries for energizing an electric motor mounted within the vehicle. The solar panel comprises a lower panel mounted on an exterior surface of the vehicle and first and second upper panels pivotally connected on opposed sides to the lower panel and movable between a first inboard position overlaying the lower panel and a second outboard position in-line with the lower panel in which the lower panel and the first and second upper panels are disposed for receiving incident solar radiation. The first and second upper panels are releasably interlockable with the lower panel in a secure, spaced-apart position when the first and second upper panels are disposed in the first inboard position overlying the lower panel. A plurality of solar panels may be provided on the roof, hood and/or trunk of the vehicle.

Abstract: A child's battery-operated ride-on toy vehicle includes a frame having at least three equal diameter wheels rotatively mounted to the frame at opposite sides thereof. The wheels at the front and/or rear of the vehicle at opposite sides of the vehicle are driven by a pair of independently operated relatively small DC electric motors. The wheels at the middle of the vehicle are not driven, but idle. The vehicle includes an onboard battery which is connected to the motors by way of a joystick control so that the vehicle occupant, by manipulating the joystick, can apply a battery voltage of either polarity to the motors so that the vehicle moves forward or in reverse or revolves in either direction on the spot. Due to the presence of the idler wheels, the vehicle can maneuver on all types of surfaces including rugs and carpeting without slipping or stalling.

Abstract: Vehicular crane of high carrying capacity having an extensible arm, especially a telescopic arm. The vehicular crane has a maximum carrying capacity of greater than 250 metric tons obtained in such a way that, with a stroke length which is sufficient for the situation, the vehicular crane can be ready for use immediately after reaching the place of use without having to undergo expensive assembly procedures. The extensible arm of the crane is connected with an undercarriage via a frame part which carries pivot mounting. The crane is also provided with wheeled swivel supports as carrier supports which are provided with vertically adjustable ground support elements and undercarriage wheels of which the direction can be adjusted.

Abstract: In a bicycle having an electric motor drive including a battery power source, an apparatus for automatically recharging the battery comprising at least one photovoltaic panel secured to the wheel of the bicycle. The conductors of the photovoltaic panels are electrically connected to annular rings secured to the wheels so that a plunger supported adjacent the annular ring can transfer the charge applied to the ring to appropriate wire conductors at a junction box which applies the current to the battery and the electric motor.

Abstract: A manoeuverable, motor-driven wheeled chassis includes a chassis structure carrying two pairs of support wheels (N.sub.1, M.sub.1) separated in the longitudinal direction of the chassis. Between the pairs of support wheels there is a pair of drive wheels (L.sub.1). The chassis structure includes a first frame structure (P.sub.1, 14) carrying a first pair of support wheels (N.sub.1) and the pair of drive wheels (L.sub.1), and a second frame structure (O.sub.1, 10) carrying the second pair of support wheels (M.sub.1) and vertically pivotably connected to the first frame structure (at K). The wheeled chassis is primarily intended for use as a wheelchair (2,4,6).

Abstract: A vehicle having a length, a front end and a substantially opposing rear end useful for propelling an implement pivotably coupled thereto at or near the front end. The vehicle comprises two driven wheels located at or near the rear end and positioned to rotate in a direction generally parallel to the length of the vehicle; a power system acting to provide power to rotate the two driven wheels; at least one non-steered wheel located at or near the front end, the non-steered wheel being rotatable about an axis which axis is at least partially rotatable; and a seat acting to provide a location at which a human being can sit on the vehicle and control the vehicle. The vehicle is sized so that the human being sitting in the seat is capable of directly steering the pivotably coupled implement.