Interconnected With Propulsion Means Patents (Class 280/221)
  • Patent number: 5224724
    Abstract: A scooter having a simple harmonic drive including front and rear wheels, a frame connecting the two wheels, a steering mechanism for steering the front wheel, a platform of sufficient size to allow a rider to stand thereon, the platform being mounted to said frame near its forward end and being spring biased at its rear end to be urged upwardly, a driving clutch connected to the rear wheel and to the rear of said platform so that shifting of the center of gravity of the rider fore and aft creates an up-and-down simple harmonic driving movement of the rear of the platform and the driving movement of the scooter. In one form, a spring is mounted on the frame and engages the rear of the platform to urge it upwardly. In modified form, the platform is cantilevered from a bracket secured to the front portion of the frame and is a spring itself so that no separate spring is used to provide the simple harmonic drive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1993
    Inventor: Marvin H. Greenwood
  • Patent number: 5224719
    Abstract: A skateboard having a deck; a frame mounted under the deck; a pedal pivotally mounted to the frame substantially below the deck and adjacent a forward portion of the deck; a plurality of wheels and clutch bearing retaining drive wheels rotatably mounted to substantially conventional diagonal axis steering trucks on the underside of the deck; a block having grooves therein and mounted underneath the deck; transmission member comprising a rack with two members having upwardly facing portions slidable within the grooves in the block and downwardly facing toothed portions for driving pinions rotatably mounted to the frame, the pinions driving pulleys having clutch bearings therein and also rotatably mounted to the frame, the pulleys being operably connected to drive wheels by loops of flexible belt material of circular cross section on either side of steering axes such that depression of the pedal reciprocates the rack members via a roller engagement between the rack and the pedal to impart rotational motion to t
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1993
    Inventor: Byron L. Goodspeed
  • Patent number: 5192089
    Abstract: A pedal-operated scooter which is characterized by a scooter frame having front and rear wheels, handle bars for steering the front wheel and a pedal-operated drive mechanism for unidirectionally propelling the rear wheel. The drive mechanism includes a pedal pivotally mounted on the scooter frame, with front and rear cables extending around corresponding cable pulleys and attached to corresponding sprocket chains. The sprocket chains engage corresponding parallel sprockets adapted for alternately driving the rear wheel when rotated in the forward direction and disengaging for free rotation in the opposite direction, responsive to pivoting of the pedal. A spring connects one end of the sprocket chains and engages a pair of spaced chain pulleys for alternately maintaining one set of the sprocket chains and connecting cables in tension responsive to free rotation of the corresponding sprocket when the opposite sprocket is being driven by the opposing sprocket chain and cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1993
    Inventor: Walter R. Taylor
  • Patent number: 5163696
    Abstract: An apparatus wherein a scooter includes a frame plate mounting a guide post and forward wheel to the forward end of the frame post, wherein a frame member mounts a fly wheel spaced forward of a rear driven wheel, wherein the fly wheel is rotated by use of an "L" shaped crank pivotally mounted to a rear end portion of a drive platform that is pivotally mounted at its forward end to a forward portion of the frame. Spring members positioned adjacent the fly wheel effect extension of the platform upon an individual depressing the platform effecting rotation of the fly wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1992
    Inventor: Roger J. Pesco, Sr.
  • Patent number: 5161810
    Abstract: An ice skateboard comprising an elongated platform having secured to the front and rear portions of the underside conventional skateboard trucks, with transverse axles supported by a structure facilitating slight controllable swinging movement of the axle in response to the shifting of weight on the platform, wherein each of the front and rear axles rotatably supports at opposed ends thereof elongated skate blade mounting units in a manner to be parallel to the center line of the platform, and each of the mounting units bearing a skate blade protruding in a direction away from the platform, the exposed edge of each blade having a front to rear contour of slightly convex curvature and a transverse contour of markedly concave curvature providing closely spaced ice gripping edges, and the mounting units for said blades being so fashioned as to provide a cant to the blades of at least 5.degree., thereby convergently orientating the mounted blades.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1992
    Inventor: John J. DeCesare
  • Patent number: 5129664
    Abstract: A pedal-driven roller-skate comprising two pedals alternatively rotated to drive three parallel sets of rollers to rotate forwards or backwards. The rollers have each two pivot holes symmetrically disposed at two eccentric locations. The first pedal is mounted on a first pair of wheel axles which are respectively fastened in the first pivot holes of the first and second parallel sets of rollers while the second pedal is mounted on a second pair of wheel axles which are respectively fastened in the second pivot holes of the second and third parallel sets of rollers. When the first pedal is rotated to a forward or upper position the second pedal is alternatively rotated to a backward or downward position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1992
    Inventor: Teng-Huang Chen
  • Patent number: 5120074
    Abstract: A velocipede comprising a rigid frame with front and rear wheels and a crank operably connected to the rear wheels. A first member has its front end portion pivotably connected to the frame front end such that the first member is movable between upper and lower positions above and below a horizontal line passing through the pivot. A second member has a first end pivotably connected to the first member rear end portion and a second end pivotably connected to the crank such that reciprocating movement of the first member rear end portion causes the second member to rotate the crank. A third member includes a pivot disposed at its intermediate portion and has its front and rear ends movable between upper and lower positions. A pair of pedals are pivotably secured to the third member front end and movable therewith between the upper and lower positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1992
    Inventors: Leonard A. Herman, Morris Helman, David W. Jones
  • Patent number: 5110148
    Abstract: A three-wheeled scooter includes a reciprocating treadle drive which a rider may use to propel the scooter in either the forward or rearward direction. The treadle drive includes a pair of treadles having their rear ends mounted to crank portions of a rear crank drive axle and their forward ends supported by rollers from a bar track having a generally flattened portion therein along with an inclined portion. Movement is achieved by a rider's shifting of his weight alternately from one treadle to the other as each treadle rotates into a driving orientation. The treadle drive is characterized by maintaining a driving relationship between at least one treadle and the crank axle at all times to thereby eliminate any "dead spots".
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 5, 1992
    Assignee: Champion Toy Company
    Inventors: LeRoy Stienbarger, Frank Gray
  • Patent number: 5066031
    Abstract: A self-propelled vehicle includes a pair of foot treadles mounted in side-by-side relation, and an overrunning clutch for each foot treadle. Each foot treadle is mounted to the frame by a four-link parallelogram retaining the respective foot treadle substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle frame as the foot treadle is driven downwardly by the operator's foot and is returned upwardly by springs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 1990
    Date of Patent: November 19, 1991
    Inventor: Isaac Rinkewich
  • Patent number: 5056802
    Abstract: A wheel skate is provided including a small diameter front wheel journaled for rotation about an horizontal transverse axis immediately beneath the toe end of the shoe of the skate and a larger diameter rear driving wheel is provided and journaled for rotation about a second axis generally paralleling the first mentioned axis. The rear driving wheel is journaled from the lower portions of depending opposite side frames each mounted from the skate for guided movement longitudinally thereof between front and rear limit positions and the rear driving wheel includes a spur gear drivingly connected to the rear driving wheel through a one way over-running clutch and the spur gear is mesh engaged with a rack gear extending longitudinally of the skate and along which the spur gear may roll during front to rear shifting of the frames relative to the skate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1991
    Inventor: Zygmunt Piotrowski
  • Patent number: 5038882
    Abstract: An improved spindle arrangement for a suspension system for supporting skis of a snowmobile induces a steering bias in each of the respective skis. A spindle is attached to respective upper and lower linkages of unequal dimensions by ball joints. The ball joints attached at each respective spindle are offset from the longitudinal axis of the spindle in a manner such that a bias is induced in each respective ski causing it to toe-out. Accordingly, the bias induced in the skis creates a situation wherein the snowmobile will give the rider much more confidence and a more comfortable ride when operating the snowmobile at high speed by eliminating the disconcerting feeling that can be generated when the skis tend to toe-in.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1991
    Assignee: Arctco, Inc.
    Inventor: Dennis P. Zulawski
  • Patent number: 5033572
    Abstract: A suspension/traction unit for a snowmobile is disclosed as having an area of primary support and a two stage angle of attack. The traction unit includes a drive sprocket rotatably mounted to the snowmobile chassis a predetermined height above ground level when the snowmobile is at rest. An endless belt is guided by slide rails such that a low primary angle of attack of about 6 degrees is presented as well as a secondary angle of attack steeper than the primary angle attack making it possible for the snowmobile to effectively start and move in deep snow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1991
    Assignee: Arctco, Inc.
    Inventor: Dennis P. Zulawski
  • Patent number: 5011171
    Abstract: A self-propelled vehicle comprising a first wheel, a second wheel, and a third wheel of greater diameter than the first and second wheels. The third wheel has a center of rotation that is aligned with the first and second wheels. A first pedal connects the first wheel and the third wheel. A second wheel connects the second wheel and the third wheel. The first and second pedals are offset by 180 degrees relative to the third wheel. The third wheel has a width greater than the first and second wheels. The center of rotation of the third wheel is aligned with the centers of rotation of the first and second wheels. The pedal has a suitable width for the receipt of a human foot. The first and second pedals are detachably connected to the wheels. A suitable snap-ring is provided so as to allow each of the pedals to be received by each of the wheels of the present invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1991
    Inventor: Walter R. Cook
  • Patent number: 5000466
    Abstract: Ski device having two ski members interconnected to a support. The connection is realized by at least two pivot arms, a front one and a rear one. The front pivot arm is shorter than the rear one while the front pivot point is nearer to the axis of the vehicle than the rear pivot point of each ski member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 19, 1991
    Inventor: Maarten A. N. Den Hartog
  • Patent number: 4973071
    Abstract: A dicycle includes a pair of parallel wheels, a crankshaft to whose end portions the wheels are attached, upwardly extending control rods connected to and pivotable about the axles, and lever members which extend downwardly and contact the ground at a point which differs from the point of intersection of the vertical to the axles and the ground. When riding the dicycle, a turn can be accomplished easily by pulling a control rod and thereby raising a wheel from the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1989
    Date of Patent: November 27, 1990
    Assignee: Masao Ishizaki
    Inventor: Miyoji Ishizaki
  • Patent number: 4915403
    Abstract: A skateboard has a frame (1) on which a petal (7b) is pivotably mounted. When the pedal (7b) is pressed down its movement is converted via a push rod (16), a crank (26) and a toothed segment (29) into a rotational movement which is transmitted to a gear train (2). The output pinion of the gear train (2) is fixedly connected to the shaft of the two drive rollers (4). The push rod (16), in each case via a ball-and-socket joint (19a, 19b), is connected to both the pedal (7b) and the toothed segment (29) so that the transmission of the drive force is ensured even during tilting of the pedal (7b) caused when riding around curves. This mechanically driveable skateboard has the same height as a conventional skateboard and enables relatively high speeds to be reached while retaining the diverse possibilities such as ease in negotiating curves and maneuverability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1988
    Date of Patent: April 10, 1990
    Inventors: Charles Wild, Antoine Bregger
  • Patent number: 4861054
    Abstract: Improved propulsion, suspension, and steering means for a skateboard-like vehicle which can be propelled and steered entirely by the feet of a rider without those feet touching the ground. An actuating means is also provided which allows the operation of brakes and/or other appropriate mechanisms without the repositioning of the rider's feet on the vehicle's foot supporting surface. The vehicle incorporates front and rear, independently-actuable pedals (53, 53R) which are actually discontinuous sections of the foot supporting platform or deck. These, combined with their support means (54, 55-front; 54R, 55R-rear), compose opposing front and rear level members which are pivotally mounted along crosswise axes. The pivotal axis of the front pedal is positioned substantially to the rear of the pivotal axis of the rear pedal so that the pedals can achieve a greater range of motion with a minimum of angular deviation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1987
    Date of Patent: August 29, 1989
    Inventor: Wade Spital
  • Patent number: 4848781
    Abstract: A snow board comprises a runner and a support deck pivotally supported on and above the runner for pivoting about a longitudinal axis thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 18, 1989
    Inventors: Robert A. Dykema, Stanley A. Pleskunas
  • Patent number: 4846488
    Abstract: A spring drive and a spring drive scooter for use by an operator. The spring drive and spring drive scooter have a frame, a resilient member connected to the frame, a pedal, and a movement. The pedal is supported by the resilient member. The pedal is disposed to bear the operator. The pedal is capable, together with the operator, of oscillatory motion relative to the frame in response to at least roughly periodic impulses supplied to the pedal by the operator at a range of frequencies including a resonant frequency. The movement is connected to the frame and includes a final driven member. The movement is actuated by reciprocation of the pedal, the movement is capable of converting oscillatory motion of the pedal into circular motion of the final driven member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1987
    Date of Patent: July 11, 1989
    Inventor: Andrzej Szadkowski
  • Patent number: 4842091
    Abstract: A self-propelled recreational vehicle of the two-wheeled type. The vehicle has a platform beneath which front and rear wheels carrying wide tires are journaled. The width of the tires is such that the vehicle will be stable regardless of whether a rider is standing on the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1987
    Date of Patent: June 27, 1989
    Inventor: William J. Badsey
  • Patent number: 4828284
    Abstract: A multi-wheeled vehicle powered via a twin treadle-acting drive train. An upright front steering assembly including a pair of tie rod coupled front wheels and steering bar-mounted gear shift and hand brake assemblies facilitate operator control of a chain-driven rear wheel. The drive train incudes left and right treadles which, via an interconnected chain and crossover sprockets, drive a rear wheel housing supported stub shaft having a pair of end-mounted, over-running sprocketed clutches, a drive sprocket and a non-reversing clutch. A derailleur-controlled drive chain transfers power from the drive sprocket to the rear wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 1987
    Date of Patent: May 9, 1989
    Inventor: John A. Sandgren
  • Patent number: 4786067
    Abstract: Tubular spacers (28) are positioned between the wheels (10, 12) of a unicycle. Inboard portions of tie bolts (34) extend through the spacers (28). A threaded end portion (38) of the tie bolt (34) screws into a T-nut (40) provided within an opening (26) in a wheel (12). The shaft of the tie bolt (34) projects through an opening (24) in the other wheel (10) and projects outwardly beyond the wheel (10). A second tubular spacer (50) is provided in the form of an enlarged diameter outboard portion of the tie bolt (34). A shoulder (52) at the inner end of this spacer (50) bears against an abutment (46). When the tie bolt (34) is tightly screwed into the T-nut (46), it is put into tension and the tubular spacer (28) is put into compression. A pedal element (56) is mounted for rotation about the outboard tubular spacer (50).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1986
    Date of Patent: November 22, 1988
    Inventor: Chun-Yi Tang
  • Patent number: 4786069
    Abstract: Tubular spacers (28) are positioned between the wheels (10, 12) of a unicycle. Inboard portions of tie bolts (34) extend through the spacers (28). A threaded end portion (38) of the tie bolt (34) screws into a T-nut (40) provided within an opening (26) in a wheel (12). The shaft of the tie bolt (34) projects through an opening (24) in the other wheel (10) and projects outwardly beyond the wheel (10). A second tubular spacer (50) closely surrounds the outboard portion of the tie bolt (34). At one end (52) this spacer bears against an abutment (46). At its opposite end (54) it abuts against the inner surface of the tie bolt head (36). When the tie bolt (34) is tightly screwed into the T-nut (46), it is put into tension and the tubular spacers (28, 50) are put into compression. A pedal element (56) is mounted for rotation about the outboard tubular spacer (50).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1987
    Date of Patent: November 22, 1988
    Inventor: Chun-Yi Tang
  • Patent number: 4786068
    Abstract: Tubular spacers (28) are positioned between the wheels (10, 12) of a unicycle. Inboard portions of tie bolts (34) extend through the spacers (28). A threaded end portion (38) of the tie bolt (34) screws into a T-nut (40) provided within an opening (26) in a wheel (12). The shaft of the tie bolt (34) projects through an opening (24) in the other wheel (10) and projects outwardly beyond the wheel (10). A second tubular spacer (50) closely surrounds the outboard portion of the tie bolt (34). At one end (52) this spacer bears against an abutment (46). At its opposite end (54) it abuts against the inner surface of the tie bolt head (36). When the tie bolt (34) is tightly screwed into the T-nut (46), it is put into tension and the tubular spacers (28, 50) are put into compression. A pedal element (56) is mounted for rotation about the outboard tubular spacer (50).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1986
    Date of Patent: November 22, 1988
    Inventor: Chun-Yi Tang
  • Patent number: 4783091
    Abstract: An apparatus called the "disco-car" is used for both exercise and recreation and comprises an exercising board, a direction-control mechanism and a wheel system. The disco-car does not need any driving power and can start to run at the player's will so long as the player stands on the exercising board and swings or sways his (or her) body together with hand control of the direction. A maximum speed of 11 km/h can be reached. The disco-car is easily operated and safe, and thus is suitable not only for the young and old but also for handicapped people.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1987
    Date of Patent: November 8, 1988
    Inventor: Hong Chi
  • Patent number: 4779863
    Abstract: A running exercise bicycle is ridden by a user who alternately pedals two pedals to drive two rotary wheels into unidirectional rotation via two sets of individual mechanical drive devices to make the exercise bicycle move forward in a zigzag or straight path. A clutch device can inter-connect the wheels for co-rotation so that the bicycle can be driven on a straight path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1987
    Date of Patent: October 25, 1988
    Inventor: Kuey M. Yang
  • Patent number: 4696485
    Abstract: An improved system of vehicle propulsion utilizing the shifting of weight on various platforms, seats, and handles by a rider. An endless chain driving connected to the platform or handle reciprocates to drive, through a one-way clutch, ground engaging wheels in a forward direction. In other words weight is converted into forward thrust.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1983
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1987
    Inventor: Robert E. Lee
  • Patent number: 4691931
    Abstract: Propelling roller skate comprising a selector on which the pedal is articulated and which is adapted to be placed in two positions: a propulsion position and a braking position. The selector is articulated on the brake device which also carries the shaft of the propulsion lever.The brake device is itself adapted to turn about the drive shaft of the driving wheels. The selector carries a stop finger carrying a brake stop and a propulsion stop cooperating respectively with the brake device and with the propulsion device to prevent the movement which does not correspond to the position selected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1986
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1987
    Inventor: Yvon M. Vincent
  • Patent number: 4669746
    Abstract: A resilient bicycle having a front wheel, a rear wheel, and a frame structure, including a head tube with a down strut. A level extension stem is provided at an end of the down strut and a tread board is fixed on top of the level extension stem for being treadled by a user standing on it. A rear fork member with an inclined connection plate at each end is connected to the rearward end of the extension stem. A hub fitting is eccentrically arranged in the rear wheel through a plurality of different length spokes and a transmission mechanism is elastically connected between the hub fitting and the rear fork member for converting the vibrating motion created by treadling into a rotational motion for driving the rear wheel. By repeatedly causing the tread board to be pushed down and rebound, the bicycle smoothly moves forward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 1985
    Date of Patent: June 2, 1987
    Inventor: Jia-Shyang Wu
  • Patent number: 4655717
    Abstract: A seatless pedal operated vehicular sports device capable of moving our firm surfaces, soft surfaces or liquid surfaces, comprises a seatless frame, a fork having downwardly extending prongs secured for pivotal movement on a forward portion of the frame, the fork having handlebars at its upper end and a front wheel in the form of a hollow cylinder rotatable between its tines. The frame at its lower rear end rotatably carries a cranked pedal assembly disposed between and secured rigidly to two rear wheels in the form of hollow cylinders. The parts are so arranged that the user's weight is borne jointly by the pedal assembly and the handlebars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1983
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1987
    Assignee: Tecnoteam S.N.C. di Tardito Dario e Cartella Pietro
    Inventor: Pietro Cartella
  • Patent number: 4621825
    Abstract: This invention relates to a new and improved skateboard of the type enabling the user to stand on the platform and shift his weight thereon to effect the forward motion of the skate board. The skate board may also be modified to be used as a weight carrier, in which the weight is loaded on the platform and the platform is oscillated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1984
    Date of Patent: November 11, 1986
    Inventor: Robert E. Lee
  • Patent number: 4582342
    Abstract: This invention relates to a self-propelled roller board that provides mobility for people in downtown areas, campuses and neighborhood localities. The pediroller board comprises one or two free-wheeling front wheels steerably affixed to an oblong board near one extremity thereof and a pair of rear wheels affixed to the oblong board near the other extremity wherein the rear wheels are driven by a pedal-powered gear driving a pinion gear including a ratchet drive driving the axle of the rear wheels. A person riding the pediroller board balances oneself by standing with one foot placed on the front portion of the oblong board and by holding a joystick type steering lever and propels the pediroller board by pedaling a pedal disposed near the rear extremity of the oblong board wherein the up-and-down motion of the pedal is converted to the rotating motion of the drive gear by a crank mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1984
    Date of Patent: April 15, 1986
    Inventors: Hyon S. Lew, Yon K. Lew, Yon S. Lew
  • Patent number: 4518176
    Abstract: A vehicle having a chassis divided into a front and rear section pivoted together. At least one of the sections having a crank driving system consisting of a pair of driving wheels attached with opposite eccentricity to a common driving shaft, which shaft supports one of the chassis sections. The axis of the driving shaft connects the wheels intersects a theoretical line passing through the center of the driving wheels at an acute angle and one wheel is fixed non-rotatably to the shaft while the other driving wheel is attached for free rotation relative to the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 21, 1985
    Assignee: Aranykalasz Mgtsz
    Inventor: Karoly Hegedus
  • Patent number: 4515382
    Abstract: A two wheeled occupant propelled vehicular device having a pair of wheels mounted on the opposite end portions of an elongated axle extending therebetween with the axle including a pair of opposed offset portions or cranks intermediate the ends thereof with each offset portion being provided with a board or pedal structure on which the feet of an occupant are placed so that the occupant or user of the device may balance himself and stand on the boards and by moving his feet in a pedaling action, the axle can be caused to rotate about an axis extending through the aligned end portions on which the wheels are mounted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1983
    Date of Patent: May 7, 1985
    Assignee: HKC, Inc.
    Inventor: Harold L. Boese
  • Patent number: 4463963
    Abstract: This invention relates to a driving mechanism for bicycles and the like devices wherein the conventional frame, seat and chain axle drive is employed, characterized in that an oscillating arcuate body is mounted on a base connected to the bicycle frame, said arcuate body having a foot rest connected through a bracket to said base, a connecting rod is connected from the front tip of said arcuate body to an eccentrically mounted crank shaft, said crank shaft being mounted on a sprocket wheel driving the chain and axle drive of the bicycle and like devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1981
    Date of Patent: August 7, 1984
    Inventor: Savy Martin
  • Patent number: 4451055
    Abstract: Weight carriers, and a method of propulsion by applying weight force on the weight carrier, wherein the weight load forces extending arms to apply a force to the axles having clutched pinions which engage the racks forcing the wheels secured to the axles to rotate in one direction. When the weight is unloaded or lifted, the upper frame carrying the weight is then extended back to the elevated position permitting the oscillation cycle to continue as the weight force is applied and relative to the purpose desired. When used as a roller skate with one of the same secured to each foot, the oscillation cycle, if so desired, may continue or stop functioning at the will of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 1978
    Date of Patent: May 29, 1984
    Inventor: Robert E. Lee
  • Patent number: 4411442
    Abstract: A foot-powered wheeled vehicle provides a frame having a platform normally occupied by a user. A pair of spaced apart front and rear trucks each supports a pinion geared shaft and a pair of wheels affixed to opposite ends of the shaft and rotatably with respect to the platform. A pair of independently actuable front and rear foot pedals hingedly are connected to the frame, each of the pedals being movable as desired by the operator between upper relaxed and lower depressed positions with each of the pedals being capable of imparting rotational energy to the wheels associated with its truck. Return springs are associated with each of the pedals for independently biasing each of the pedals toward the upper position which is overcome only by depression by the foot of the operator. Each pedal provides a curved toothed gear rack which is connected at its uppermost end portion to the pedal and which drivingly engages the pinion gear portion of the shaft responsive to depression of the pedal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 1981
    Date of Patent: October 25, 1983
    Inventor: Nolan J. Rills
  • Patent number: 4230331
    Abstract: A generally T-shaped wheeled support frame is provided with an upstanding hand grip bar and a rearward foot supporting tailpiece pivotally connected for horizontal movement with the hand grip bar by a flexible shaft permitting the user to generate forward movement of the frame by lateral to and fro bending movement of the shaft and pivoting movement of the tailpiece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 1979
    Date of Patent: October 28, 1980
    Inventor: Sterling V. Johnson
  • Patent number: 4186934
    Abstract: A scooter vehicle has a chassis, and a front wheel mounted on the center line of the chassis, a rear wheel mounted on the chassis, and a steering column attached to the front wheel. A pair of ratchet gears are connected one to each of the rear wheels. A platform is rotatively mounted on the chassis. The platform has front and rear foot portions mounted with an angle of less than 180.degree. between them. First chain means connects the front of the platform for driving one of the ratchet drive wheel gears and second chain means connects the rear of the platform for driving the other of the ratchet drive wheel gears.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1978
    Date of Patent: February 5, 1980
    Inventor: Thomas J. Collings
  • Patent number: 4181319
    Abstract: A ski-skateboard device driven by intermittent downward pressure applied to two foot pads or a pair of hand-operated handles. A disk-shaped platform has a fixed central flange extending downward. A suspension assembly is provided on each side of the central flange with two axles being rotatably attached to each suspension assembly. At least two axles have eccentric portions to which one or more force application rods are attached. Each axle has an outer end to which a wheel is fixed, and an inner end connected to the suspension assembly. The relative position of eccentric portions of selected pairs of axles may be maintained to allow propulsion by a rocking or treading motion supplied by the hands or feet. The suspension assembly may be a suspension spring apparatus or a shock absorber with a pivotal plate apparatus so that at least the right and left portions of the suspension system are independently movable in a vertical direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1978
    Date of Patent: January 1, 1980
    Inventor: Farrokh Hirbod
  • Patent number: 4161328
    Abstract: An oscillating pedal bicycle in which the downward force exerted by a rider is converted from the oscillating-motion of the pedals into a unidirectional rotation of the drive wheel. The oscillating motion of the pedals is transmitted by flexible tension members to a conversion mechanism for converting the linear motion of such tension members into the rotary motion of the drive wheel. Maximum utilization of the motive power of the rider is achieved through the use of a quick-release, variable position body restraint and a variable height seat, both of which are adjustable while the bicycle is in motion, while maximum transfer and conversion of such motive power is achieved by an improved pedal return and tension member rewind mechanism and an improved drive mechanism. Pedal stabilizers, rotatable foot restraints and foot actuated lever control mechanisms are provided to maximize motive power and efficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1977
    Date of Patent: July 17, 1979
    Inventor: Boris Efros
  • Patent number: 4133551
    Abstract: A cambering vehicle having pivoted trailing arms and having a cambering device consisting of a crank member supported by the steering frame for rotation about an axis extending transversely to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle and having offset end portions connected to the trailing arms for controlling substantially equal and opposite movement thereof when the vehicle is leaned into a turn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 1977
    Date of Patent: January 9, 1979
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Edward J. Biskup
  • Patent number: 4124222
    Abstract: A novel structure in a scooter type sport vehicle is presented. The vehicle is of the type which includes a supporting frame structure in combination with at least front and back wheels mounted for rotation with respect to said frame to define a wheeled vehicle. A rockable platform for supporting a standing rider is supported pivotably on said frame. The platform includes an extended forward portion so as to make the platform non-symmetrical with respect to the pivot, and the platform may be rocked back and forth on the frame about the pivot point with increased leverage exerted in the forward direction. Driving means responsive to the forward rocking movement of the platform is included for producing a unidirectional turning moment on the real wheel, whereby a rider may shift his weight to forwardly rock the platform and thereby propel the wheeled vehicle forward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1977
    Date of Patent: November 7, 1978
    Assignee: Diker-Moe Associates
    Inventors: Walter Moe, John A. Wessels
  • Patent number: 4087104
    Abstract: A cambering vehicle, having an upright main frame supporting a front steerable surface contact means and having a pair of trailing arms pivoted at one end to opposite sides of the main frame and having rear surface contact means mounted at the free ends thereof, is manually propelled by the vehicle operator who stands on foot rest means adjacent the rear wheels and, while camber steering the vehicle in a first curved path centered to one side of the vehicle, shifts his body weight from the outside to the inside foot so that the mass initially turning on a first radius is forced to turn on a smaller radius to increase velocity and conserve angular momentum. This stroking action is repeated as the operator steers the vehicle in a second curved path centered to the opposite side of the vehicle. The sinuous camber steering and body weight shifting strokes are repeated as desired to produce a net forward travel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1976
    Date of Patent: May 2, 1978
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Frank J. Winchell, Klaus O. Winkelmann
  • Patent number: 4087108
    Abstract: A three-place contact cambering vehicle having a pair of trailing arms pivoted to a front frame for up and down swinging movement on either side of the frame and interconnected by spur gearing that stabilizes and holds the frame and connected steering column at a predetermined rake angle while permitting equal and opposite movement of the trailing arms. This gearing can be locked to lock the trailing arms and frame together for vehicle parking purposes. An adjustment is provided to permit the rake angle of the frame to be selectively varied to change steering column rake angle and to further permit the frame and steering column to be collapsed toward the trailing arms and subsequently locked to provide a compact, low profile vehicle for transportation or storage purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1976
    Date of Patent: May 2, 1978
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Frank J. Winchell
  • Patent number: 4065146
    Abstract: A cambering vehicle having pivoted trailing arms interconnected through a cambering device including a two-piece bell crank that incorporates locking means for allowing the trailing arms to be locked together for parking purposes and also folded towards the vehicle frame so as to provide a compact package which can be readily stowed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1976
    Date of Patent: December 27, 1977
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Richard E. Denzer
  • Patent number: 4054300
    Abstract: A cambering vehicle having a pair of trailing arms pivoted to the front steering frame for up and down swinging movement on either side of the steering frame and interconnected by differential gearing that stabilizes and holds the steering frame at a predetermined rake angle while permitting equal and opposite movement of the trailing arms. This gearing can be locked to lock the trailing arms and steering frame together for vehicle parking purposes. An adjustment is provided to permit the rake angle of the steering frame to be changed and to further permit the steering frame to be collapsed toward the trailing arms and locked to provide a low profile position for transportation or storage purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1976
    Date of Patent: October 18, 1977
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Frank J. Winchell
  • Patent number: 4050712
    Abstract: A cambering vehicle having pivoted trailing arms interconnected through a cambering device including a bell crank consisting of two wing members which are connected together by a gearing arrangement and combined with a lever-operated locking device that allows the trailing arms to be freely movable for normal operation of the vehicle and to be folded towards the vehicle frame so as to provide a compact package when the vehicle is to be stowed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1976
    Date of Patent: September 27, 1977
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Richard E. Denzer, Gerald J. Marsh, Horacio Shakespear
  • Patent number: 4050713
    Abstract: A cambering vehicle having pivoted trailing arms interconnected through a cambering device including a two-piece bell crank that allows the trailing arms to be locked together and folded towards the vehicle frame so as to provide a compact package which can be readily stowed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1976
    Date of Patent: September 27, 1977
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Jerry K. Williams
  • Patent number: 4050711
    Abstract: A cambering vehicle having pivoted trailing arms interconnected through a cambering device including a two-piece bell crank which has a lever-operated locking pin that allows the trailing arms to be locked together and folded towards the vehicle frame so as to provide a compact package which can be readily stowed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1976
    Date of Patent: September 27, 1977
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Richard E. Denzer