Abstract: An electric assist system for an electric assist vehicle includes a crankshaft rotatable by human power of a rider applied to a pedal, an electric motor that generates an assist power that assists the human power of the rider, a controller that controls a magnitude of the assist power to be generated by the electric motor, and an acceleration sensor that outputs a signal in accordance with an acceleration in a traveling direction of the electric assist vehicle. The controller changes the magnitude of the assist power to be generated by the electric motor in accordance with a change in the acceleration that is associated with an operation of the rider rotating the pedal.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a bicycle propelling device capable of transferring power to a bicycle wheel by using the gripping force of both hands. The present propelling device uses the gripping force, and thus overcomes the problem of prior art hand and foot bicycles in which balance is easily lost during driving because the prior art hand and foot bicycles require the use of the arms. The propelling device can be used together with a pedaling operation when greater power is required while the user is riding the bicycle as usual, thereby improving the running efficiency of the bicycle. Furthermore, the propelling device is formed by combining simple devices including a string and a freewheel, and thus a bicycle can maintain the original structure thereof as it is, so that it does not cause any disadvantage or difference when the user rides the bicycle by stepping on pedals in a conventional manner.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to the field of cycle technologies, and particularly to a wheel and a cycle. The wheel comprises a rim, a tire covering an outer periphery face of the rim, and a friction power device sandwiched between the rim and the tire; wherein the friction power device can produce a frictional current when pressed by the rim and/or the tire.

Abstract: The drive unit (19) according to the invention for light vehicles, in particular bicycles, comprises a wheel unit (20) and a motor unit (21). The wheel unit (20) includes a gear ring (27) and at least one, preferably two support tracks (31, 35) on which the motor unit (21), which is movably supported but circumferentially fixed to the frame (11), runs. In this way, a wheel-support arrangement for the motor unit (21) is provided. As a result, also with extreme light-weight designs as used in connection with bicycles even in sport applications, a correct engagement between the wheel mounted gear ring (27) and drive pinion (45) is achieved.

Abstract: The present invention is a bicycle having a frame capable of flexing under downward force so that when downward force is applied a front spring assembly and a rear spring assembly are able to store and release the energy allowing the bike to jump in the air. The spring assemblies of the present invention use bow springs made from fiberglass/epoxy, graphite/epoxy, or fiberglass/nylon instead of traditional coil springs. The bow springs allow the spring assemblies to return a greater amount of energy than their coil spring counterparts while keeping overall weight of the spring assembly down.

Abstract: A solar-powered vehicle with regenerative and mechanical braking includes a chassis or frame, a seat mounted to the frame, a rear axle rotatably supported on the frame, spaced apart left and right rear wheels mounted on the rear axle, and at least one front wheel mounted on the frame. The vehicle includes a selectively engageable regenerative braking system and a selectively engageable mechanical braking system. A lever for engaging the braking systems has three positions, wherein at a first position a reed switch on the lever engages a magnetic source, disabling the regenerative braking system. At a second position, the reed switch disengages the magnetic source, enabling the regenerative braking system. At a third position of the lever, the mechanical braking system is engaged.

Abstract: The invention is a push scooter having a suspension capable of storing significant potential energy. Once the potential energy in the suspension is released, the rider can more easily travel vertically off of the ground and perform acrobatics. In the preferred embodiment, the inventive push scooter has both a front suspension and a rear suspension. The front suspension is comprised of a vertical spring mechanism having significant suspension travel. The rear suspension is preferably comprised of a suspension arm attached to the rear deck of the scooter. The rider can apply downward pressure to the deck, causing the rear suspension to flex downward and store vertical potential energy, with the front suspension following suit. Upon releasing the stored potential energy, the rider is aided in traveling vertically, along with the scooter; and various vertical acrobatics become easier to perform.

Abstract: A transport apparatus including a rotary portion for providing a source of a rotary motion; a motion transfer portion for mechanically transferring a rotational force of the rotary portion; a battery pack; and a cooling portion for receiving the rotation force transferred from the motion transfer portion and cooling the battery pack by moving a fluid.

Abstract: Disclosed commuter vehicles include a chassis that includes a frame, opposed first and second steerable front wheels, a trailing rear wheel, and a linear-input steering mechanism for controlling an orientation of the first and second steerable front wheels. The commuter vehicles also include a drive-train for transmitting rotational motion and torque from a power-input source to rotational motion of the trailing rear wheel, and a body defining a cockpit and being supported by the chassis. An outer-most lateral dimension of the body corresponds to a maximum outer-most lateral dimension of the commuter vehicle. Embodiments of linear-input steering mechanisms compatible with commuter vehicles being so dimensioned as to fit through an open door are described.

Abstract: A bicycle is equipped with an auxiliary power system to provide extra power for driving the bicycle forward. The auxiliary power system includes a base fixed to a frame of the bicycle, a power storage device connected to the base, and a ratchet device connecting the power storage device and a main transmission system of the bicycle. When pedals of the bicycle are turned in a forward direction, it may drive the bicycle forward but not the power storage device through the ratchet device. When the pedals are turned in a rearward direction, it may drive the power storage device through the ratchet device to store extra power in the power storage device. A rider may release the power stored in the power storage device to drive the bicycle forward through the ratchet device and the main transmission system.

Abstract: The present invention is applied to pedal vehicles, or mixture of electric and pedal vehicles, or combination of electric and pedal vehicles, especially to a bicycle capable of being pedaled bidirectionally and driven to move in unidirectional.

Abstract: A bicycle driving assistance device includes a crank having two pedals and a first chainwheel unit is connected to the crank and a gear box which has its input shaft connected to a first chainwheel unit. A one-direction bearing is connected to the input shaft so as to rotate in the direction to store energy. A vortex spring is connected between the input shaft and the case to which a first gear of the gear box is connected. An output shaft of the gear box outputs the energy to the rear chainwheel unit via the second chainwheel unit to move the rear wheel of the bicycle. The rear chainwheel unit and the crank are separated by a one-direction bearing. When the force applied to the pedals is less than the energy stored in the vortex spring, the energy is released to assist the rider to move the bicycle.

Abstract: A power generation apparatus and method comprises at least one gyroglider rotary wing flying at an altitude above the nap of the earth. A strong and flexible tether, connected to the gyroglider frame is pulled with a force generated by the rotary wing. The force is transmitted to a ground station that converts the comparatively linear motion of the tether being pulled upward with a lifting force. The linear motion is transferred to a rotary motion at the ground station to rotate an electrical generator. The tether is retrieved and re-coiled about a drum by controlling the gyroglider to fly down at a speed and lift force that permit recovery of the gyroglider at a substantially reduced amount of retrieval force compared to the lifting force during payout of the tether. Thus, the net difference in force results in a net gain of energy.

Abstract: A pedal car that is designed to serve as foot-propelled transportation for two or more individuals. The pedal car has a protected enclosure that is designed to be powered by leg power of the two front-seat passengers, with these passengers operating a pedaling system. Each of these two front-seat passengers has a two-pedal system to allow each of them to share the responsibility of providing power to the pedal car. The pedal car also has an overhead roof, with each of the two front seats having 90-degree swivel capabilities, a seat lock, and a seat belt for safety while riding.

Abstract: A spring-based mechanism for saving labor of a bicycle rider is disclosed and in one embodiment includes an axle operatively connected to a chain wheel and a first set of bearings via a gear assembly; a housing for mounting a shaft therein wherein the first set of bearings is provided at one end of the shaft; a second set of bearings provided at the other end of the shaft; a spring in the housing and having one end attached to one end of the shaft and the other end attached to the other end of the housing; and a clutch provided externally of the other end of the housing, the clutch being operatively connected to the second set of bearings and including a lock lever. The mechanism can store elastic force by counterclockwise pedaling and release the stored energy by disengaging a clutch from the mechanism when riding uphill.

Abstract: An electric bicycle includes at least two internal storage compartments accessible by moving a seat to an open position. The storage compartments are arrange side-by-side and separated by a dead space (e.g., a wall). The electric bicycle includes a lock mechanism disposed in the dead space for selectively locking the seat in a closed position. As so arranged, the lock mechanism does not reduce the size of the two internal storage compartments and is less likely to be tampered with in comparison to lock mechanisms that are located around the perimeter of the storage compartments.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is an outdoor mobile fitness machine. The outdoor mobile fitness machine of the present invention includes a main frame (110), to which a front wheel (12), a rear wheel (130) that is a drive wheel, and a set of handlebars (140) are mounted. The outdoor mobile fitness machine is moved by rotation of the drive wheel, which is rotated by an electromotor (160). The outdoor mobile fitness machine further comprises a fitness device, which is provided on the main frame (110) and operated by feet of a user; a sensor (195), which determines if the fitness device is in operation and detects an operating speed of the fitness device; and a controller (200), which determines both whether the fitness device is in operation and an operating speed of the fitness device and variably controls an electric current to be applied to the electromotor (160), thus automatically controlling motion and moving speed of the fitness machine.

Abstract: An articulated vehicle includes a rear frame and a front frame linked by an articulation associated with the device for removably locking controlled by a pendular member mounted oscillating on the front frame between a median position for unlocking the articulation and a spaced apart position for locking the articulation, at least when the vehicle is stopped. The vehicle comprises elements for controlling the unlocking of the articulation, at least during start-up, including an auxiliary platform integral in rotation with the rear frame and comprising, at least, two footrests arranged at substantially the same level relative to the ground, on either side of the articulation axis and constituting each, on the side towards which the front frame is inclined, a support for the front frame to be set upright by the vehicle driver, the pendular member returning to its median position for unlocking the articulation.

Abstract: The cycle accessory system for child strollers can convert an ordinary child stroller into a multi-child transport unit. The multi-child transport unit can have at least four modes. The first mode (referred to herein as the “child control” mode) allows the lead child to power and steer the multi-child transport unit. (Note: even in child control mode, an adult has the ability to at least keep the multi-child transport unit stationary.) The second mode (referred to herein as the “adult control” mode) removes the ability of the lead child to power or steer the multi-child transport unit and returns control to an adult to power and steer the multi-child transport unit. The third mode is a multi-child transport unit storage mode. And the fourth mode is a tricycle mode.

Abstract: A wheeled vehicle is disclosed where that vehicle includes at least one disk, i.e. wheel, and a plurality of permanent magnets disposed around that wheel. The vehicle further includes a frame, where the wheel is rotatably connected to that frame. The vehicle further includes a source of electric power, and one or more electromagnet assemblies, each assembly comprising a first electromagnetic pole and a second electromagnet pole, where the first electromagnet pole and the second electromagnet pole are separated by a gap, and where one or more electromagnet assemblies are disposed on the frame such that each of the plurality of permanent magnets sequentially passes through the gaps in each assembly as the wheel rotates. The vehicle further includes a control unit capable of receiving power from the power source and selectively providing power to the one or more electromagnet assemblies.

Abstract: A kinematic speed controller for a vehicle requires the constant deliberate movement of a rotary apparatus which is physically independent from the vehicle drive system. It does not require substantial operator muscle power since there is no direct mechanical connection between the kinematic controller and the vehicle drive system. The rotary apparatus which controls the vehicle speed may be a foot pedal and crank assembly. Additionally, the invention may include a variable degree of resistance to the rotary input device to enhance operator control or to provide muscle exercise for the operator if desired. Furthermore, the invention may include the variable setting of the relationship between the speed of the rotary input device and the amount of power provided to drive the vehicle and hence the speed of the vehicle. The components of the invention may be arranged to visually simulate a bicycle-type mechanical chain drive.

Abstract: The invention concerns an articulated vehicle comprising a rear frame (1) and a front frame (2) linked by an articulation (3) associated with the device (30, 6) for removably locking controlled by a pendular member (4, 62) mounted oscillating on the front frame (2) between a median position for unlocking the articulation and a spaced apart position for locking the articulation, at least when the vehicle is stopped.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a scooter that is self propelled with a uniquely designed spring winding propulsion system. Using a system of interrelated gears and sprockets, the propulsion system is automatically rewound as a user manually propels the scooter. Accordingly, when the propulsion system is sufficiently rewound, a release button transfers energy contained within the wound springs to a rear wheel thereby automatically propelling the scooter.

Abstract: A bicycle bottom bracket structure is provided that has a dynamo for generating electricity when the rider is pedaling the bicycle. The dynamo has a stationary part fixed to a portion of a bicycle frame and a rotational part coupled to rotate relative to the portion of the bicycle frame. Preferably, the rotational part of the dynamo is coupled to an axle of the bicycle bottom bracket structure via a planetary gear unit. Thus, the planetary gear unit is coupled between the axle and the rotational part of the dynamo such that the rotational part of the dynamo rotates faster than the axle.

Abstract: A human-powered generator system for electric watercycles with a control means whereby the perceived mechanical properties of the pedal mechanism and electric pedal-powered generator are adjustable by the operator. The invention provides a means whereby the rotational inertia and damping of the input pedal mechanism, including generator, as perceived by the operator can be increased or decreased as desired. The control means with further properties such that the input pedal mechanism as perceived by the operator can be made to mimic that of bicycle; i.e., with large inertia when pedaling in the forward direction, a very low inertia when pedaling in the reverse direction, and a freewheeling clutch mechanism whereby the large inertia is disengaged when not pedaling in the forward direction with a forward torque. The control means further enable the electric watercycle to be perceived as coasting through the water when the operator takes a momentary break from pedaling, much like that of a bicycle coasting.

Abstract: A drive mechanism for use in a man-driven vehicle having a front fork to which a wheel is rotatably connected includes a rack, a power drive and a quick-release lock. The rack is affixed to the front fork of the man-driven vehicle. The power drive has a transmission shaft pressable on a periphery of the wheel of the front fork, and a motor coupled to the transmission shaft for driving the transmission shaft to rotate. The quick-release lock is coupled between said power drive and said rack for locking said power drive and said rack together, thereby enabling the user to select the man power driving mode or motor driving mode.

Abstract: An auxiliary inertial drive device for a bicycle includes a casing mounted on a crossbar of a bicycle. A shaft is rotatably mounted in the casing parallel to a main shaft of the bicycle. The shaft includes a first end extending through the casing and a second in the casing. A driven wheel is centrally secured on the drive sprocket wheel and a drive wheel is secured on the first end of the shaft. The drive wheel is driven by the driven wheel via a driving strip. A gear is secured on the second end of the shaft for driving a gear set that is mounted in the casing and has at least one flywheel rotated to provide inertia to the bicycle for lengthening coasting distance.

Abstract: A spurring device includes a carriage lever pivoted on a mounting frame around a pivot axis parallel to a rotating axis of a rear sprocket wheel of a bicycle. The carriage lever has a front lifted portion and a rear depressed portion opposite to each other relative to the pivot axis. The front lifted portion is adapted to be pulled by a manually operated brake cable to move upwards to bring the rear depressed portion towards a rear tire of the bicycle. A rear axle is rotatably mounted on the rear depressed portion around a rotating axis parallel to the pivot axis. A frictional rotary member is mounted on and is rotatable with the rear axle to frictionally engage the rear tire when the rear depressed portion is brought towards the rear tire so as to be driven together with the rear axle to rotate clockwise. Simultaneously, a first biasing member is disposed on the rear axle to accumulate a biasing force for urging the rear axle to rotate counterclockwise.

Abstract: A manpower-assisting power apparatus for appropriately applying power to assist human power without using a large, high cost torque detection apparatus, and enabling operation by human power to be continued even when external motor-generated power is no longer applied. This manpower-assisting power apparatus is equipped with a differential gear mechanism preferably comprising a pedal drive bevel gear, a motor drive bevel gear, and a pair of corresponding small bevel gears driving a rotary output member. The rotational speeds of the motor drive spur gear integrated with motor drive bevel gear, and pedal drive sprocket integrated with pedal drive bevel gear are respectively detected by a motor speed sensor and at least one manpower rotational speed sensors operating in a noncontact fashion. These detected rotational speeds are used by a controller to preferably drive the motor to maintain a constant ratio between these rotational speeds.

Abstract: A vehicle pedal power saving mechanism mounted on the axle of the pedal cranks of a vehicle to facilitate pedaling of the pedal cranks, the vehicle pedal power saving mechanism including a side board mounted on the frame structure of the vehicle, a big gear coupled to the axle of the pedal cranks by an one-way ratchet wheel assembly, a small gear meshed with the big gear, a piston moved in a cylindrical shell at the side board and supported on a spring member inside the cylindrical shell, and a link coupled between the piston and a pivot at the small gear to reciprocate the piston upon rotary motion of the big gear and the small gear.

Abstract: An energy storage drive assembly is provided for a bicycle and includes a coil spring mounted on the bicycle with at least one roller in abutment with a wheel of the bicycle. The energy storage drive assembly is adapted for storing energy on the spring in a first mode and further effecting the movement of the bicycle in a forward direction with the stored energy in a second mode.

Abstract: A battery charging system for electric vehicles comprising a wind tunnel positioned longitudinally along the frame structure of an electric vehicle such that the overall transverse cross section of the vehicle is not increased, designed to minimize the drag effect associated with the wind tunnel. The wind tunnel includes an internal bore having a wide elliptical cross section, defining an air passageway through which air flows, as the vehicle travels in a forward direction. A plurality of wind driven generators are situated within the wind tunnel adapted to covert the stream of air therein to electric energy. The battery charging system further comprises regenerative braking system and solar panels for converting braking force and solar energy to produce electric energy.

Abstract: A manpower-assisting power for appropriately applying power to assist human power without using a large, high cost torque detection apparatus, and enabling operation by human power to be continued even when external motor-generated power is no longer applied. This manpower-assisting power apparatus is equipped with a differential gear mechanism preferably comprising a pedal drive bevel gear, a motor drive bevel gear, and a pair of corresponding small bevel gears driving a rotary output member. The rotational speeds of the motor drive spur gear integrated with motor drive bevel gear, and pedal drive sprocket integrated with pedal drive bevel gear are respectively detected by a motor speed sensor and at least one manpower rotational speed sensors operating in a noncontact fashion. These detected rotational speeds are used by a controller to preferably drive the motor to maintain a constant ratio between these rotational speeds.

Abstract: A hydraulically controlled bicycle drive system for variably transferring rotational motive power from a rider to the chain of a bicycle. The bicycle comprises a chain drive, a plurality of hydraulic clamps, and a plurality of roller clamps; a rotatable disk driven by the pedals of the bicycle received in the hydraulic clamps and roller clamps; and a control mechanism controllable by the rider for applying a variable pressure to the hydraulic clamps.

Abstract: Auxiliary drive apparatus including a wheel having an axis of rotation, and first and second wheel engagement elements arranged for driving engagement with the wheel, at least one of the wheel engagement elements being coupled to a motor, for being driven thereby, the first and second of wheel engagement elements being arranged for rotation about respective first and second engagement element rotation axes, the first and second wheel engagement elements being mounted such that the effective traction of the engagement thereof with the wheel increases automatically with increased resistance to rotation of the wheel and decreases automatically with decreased resistance to rotation of the wheel, and wherein a mounting of the first and second wheel engagement elements is such that a separation between the first and second wheel engagement element rotation axes, the separation lying parallel to the axis of rotation of the wheel, is variable.

Abstract: Described is a bicycle with a gear arrangement in which drive force is transmitted from the pedal crank spindle to the rear wheel by way of a direction-changing transmission and a multi-stage shiftable main transmission. A common shaft serves as the driven shaft of the direction-changing transmission and the drive shaft of the main transmission. The transmission housing can be arranged substantially within the rear wheel hub and project therefrom only at the side at which the drive arrangement is disposed. The transmission housing is preferably connected to the bicycle frame by means of a single-sided mounting swing arm.

Abstract: An electrically powered vehicle wherein the electric power may be provided by an auxiliary electric motor with power assist being determined by a manual force applied by an operator for manually propelling the vehicle. The vehicle control includes a method for determining when the vehicle is being started from a stop and for providing a gradual application of electric power assist during such start-up. In addition, if the operator calls for an abrupt change in power assist, the actual power assist is applied only gradually to provide smoother operation. The system also has self-checking functions and the electric power assist is disabled in response to certain types of failures. However, the operator is warned in advance that the power will be shut down so as to avoid emergency situations. The self-checking provides an arrangement for checking when the speed sensor is inoperative by sensing certain output characteristics of the speed sensor and the force application.

Abstract: A land vehicle or bicycle (110) is disclosed having a front wheel drive which includes an impulse drive mechanism and shock driver. The front wheel drive mechanism (140) includes a handle bar/driver mechanism (151) attached to an impulse drive mechanism (166). The bicycle (110) may be used such that the handle bar/driver mechanism (151) is fixed for use as a conventional bicycle or may be released by a twist grip (159) or thumb release (193) so that the bicycle may be driven by a drive mechanism (140). The shock drive mechanism (FIGS. 14-16) provides forward propulsion force due to the compression (308) and recoil (304) forces of a shock absorber (144) when the bicycle (110) encounters a bump, curb or other obstacle.

Abstract: A power transmission unit for coupling a prime mover to a vehicle, in particular a bicycle. The unit has a clutch assembly, a gear train, and a freewheel mechanism. The output shaft of the prime mover is connected to the input side of the clutch assembly. The output of the clutch assembly is connected to the input side of the gear train. The output side of the gear train is connected to the freewheel mechanism. The freewheel mechanism is connected to a first sprocket wheel. The first sprocket wheel and a second sprocket wheel are mounted together on a common freewheel which in turn is mounted on the crankshaft of the bicycle. The second sprocket wheel is connected to the rear wheel of the bicycle. In the absence of power from the prime mover, the bicycle may be used in a conventional manner. When in use, the prime mover drives the rear wheel of the bicycle via the clutch assembly, gear train, freewheel mechanism, sprocket wheels and the rear wheel.

Abstract: A drive mechanism is disclosed that is selectably engageable to provide a bicycle that has normally driven and nondriven wheels with either single or dual wheel drive. The drive mechanism includes a power take off means that has: a first power transmission mechanism mounted on said frame; a second power transmission mechanism mounted on the bicycle frame in positive drive power transmitting engagement with a normally non-driven wheel of the bicycle; and a power transfer apparatus connected to receive power from the first power transmission mechanism and transmit it to the second power transmission mechanism. A coupling mechanism is operatively connected with the power take off and is selectively actuatable to place the first power transmission mechanism either in a drive position receiving power from the normally driven wheel or a disengaged non-power transmitting position.

Abstract: An electrically driven auxiliary drive for vehicles including first and second electric motors each having associated therewith a friction drive element and apparatus for selectably bringing the friction drive elements into operative driving engagement with the tire of a vehicle wheel for driving thereof the friction drive elements being maintained in fixed mutually spaced relationship.

Abstract: A motorized bicycle includes a drive system which can be fitted quickly and easily onto an existing bicycle in such a manner that the bicycle can be pedalled in a free-wheeling mode in which the motorized system does not significantly increase the force needed to pedal the bicycle. The motorized bicycle includes a wheel onto which is mounted a drive gear, a driven gear connected to the drive gear, and a drive device connected to the driven gear. The drive device includes a motor adapted to rotate an output shaft, a rotatable drive shaft, a first drive device detachably connecting the output shaft to the drive shaft, and a second drive device detachably connecting the drive shaft to the driven gear. The second drive device is centrifugally activated via rotation of the drive shaft by the first drive device. The drive system is mounted on a base which can be adjustably mounted on the bicycle's frame.

Abstract: A power transfer apparatus for imparting drive motion to followers. The power transfer apparatus mechanically and rotatably communicates with a driven wheel of a vehicle and transfers rotary power to the non-driven wheel of a vehicle. The present invention teaches a power distribution apparatus for mountain bicycles that mechanically and rotatably communicate with a pedal driven wheel and that transfers rotary power to the non-driven wheel to improve the forward propulsion of the mountain bicycle under rough terrain riding conditions. The power transfer apparatus includes a first caliper assembly having a driver idler and an auxiliary free wheeling idler for engaging a pedal driven wheel of a bicycle, a cable drive system coupled to the driver idler transfers drive motion from the driven wheel to a second caliper assembly having a receiver idler that engages the drive motion to the non-driven wheel.

Abstract: A three-wheel exercise vehicle that may be operator pedaled by means of a crank assembly that is coupled by a transmission to a wheel. In addition, an internal combustion engine may power this wheel. The pedal-operated crank assembly is also coupled to a hydraulic pump that pumps fluid through a closed circuit including a restrictive orifice for acting as a brake on the speed of the vehicle when coasting and also providing a load for the operator to exercise when the vehicle is being powered by the internal combustion engine. An improved seating arrangement is provided that will afford great comfort for the operator.

Abstract: A drive mechanism, which is supplied by an energy source, for a wheel of a personal vehicle of the kind including wheelchairs, wheelchair towing devices, bicycles and the like, and having a user support for supporting a user thereon for movement with said vehicles. A drive motor is drivingly connectible to the wheel. An energy control means controls energization of the motor. A releasable device releasably locates the drive motor in driving relation with the wheel in a location on the vehicle within reach of a user on the user support for connection and disconnection of the drive motor with respect to said vehicle by a user on the user support, the latter including a quick release device for facilitating that connection and disconnection.

Abstract: A drive mechanism, which is supplied by an energy source, for a wheel of a personal vehicle of the kind including wheelchairs, wheelchair towing devices, bicycles and the like, and having a user support for supporting a user thereon for movement with said vehicles. A drive motor is drivingly connectible to the wheel. An energy contol means controls energization of the motor. A releasable device releasably locates the drive motor in driving relation with the wheel in a location on the vehicle within reach of a user on the user support for connection and disconnection of the drive motor with respect to said vehicle by a user on the user support, the latter including a quick release device for facilitating that connection and disconnection.

Abstract: A portable bicycle has an elongated first part carrying the handlebars and front-wheel fork at its forward end which can fold into the first part and concealed by swinging a second part down from its upright position and a third part forwardly and upwardly. The second part carries the seat and the third part carries the rear wheel. The second and third parts are hinged to the rear end of the first part and the three parts when folded together constitute a case of rectangular parallelopipedal configuration.

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 transmission apparatus for a wheeled vehicle is disclosed. The wheeled vehicle includes a rotatable driving member, to which power is delivered by rotating the driving member in a first direction, and a ground engaging wheel. The transmission apparatus includes a cylindrical spring which encircles an axle of the ground engaging wheel. A first end of the cylindrical spring is connected to the axle, and a second end is connected to a one-way clutch mechanism which periodically engages an inner surface of a hub of the ground engaging wheel to periodically deliver energy stored in the spring to the wheel. An engaging mechanism, which is mounted on the axle adjacent to the clutch mechanism, is capable of periodically engaging the clutch mechanism.

Abstract: A speed up device for insertion between the spokes of bicycle wheels formed by bonding two plate members together so that the top and front portions of the device will have a narrow edge while the bottom and rear portions of the device diverge outwardly as compared to said top and front portions.