Shiftable Clutch Or Gearing Patents (Class 280/238)
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Patent number: 10889350Abstract: The invention relates to a bicycle gearing, comprising: a cylindrical-gear gearing (10), which has a stationary sun gear (11) having a central bearing axis (y1) extending centrally therein and a planet gear (12), which travels on the sun gear (11) and rotates about a planet-gear bearing axis (y2); a four-bar linkage (20), which interacts with the cylindrical-gear gearing (10) and which comprises a crank (21), which is fixedly connected to the planet gear (12) and is rotatably connected to a pedal crank (22); and a toothed wheel (30), by means of which a traction means (31) can be driven. The problem addressed by the invention is that of improving a bicycle gearing of the type in question in such a way that a rounder pedaling feel is perceived by the bicycle rider. The problem is solved according to the invention in that the toothed wheel (30) has an oval shape.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2017Date of Patent: January 12, 2021Assignee: Move Bikes GmbHInventors: Stefan Schubert, Tobias Sprote, Marcus Rochlitzer
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Patent number: 10850803Abstract: An electric bicycle having a control unit, a drive unit, a battery unit, a display unit and a remote control unit for display unit, remote control unit being situated in the region of a handlebar grip remote from display unit. According to the present disclosure, electronic control unit is situated in seat tube of bicycle frame.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2018Date of Patent: December 1, 2020Assignee: BIKETEC AGInventors: Ivica Durdevic, Lukas Beat Studer, Philipp Walter Suter, Simon Lanz, Robin Woodtli, Timo Woelk, Omar Afzal
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Patent number: 10829179Abstract: A control system for a human-powered vehicle includes an input device, an additional input device, and a controller. The input device is configured to receive manual input from a rider. The additional input device is configured to receive manual input from the rider. The controller is configured to control a shifting device of the human-powered vehicle based on one of an output signal from the input device and an output signal from the additional input device. The controller is configured to output one of a first control signal for a single shifting operation and a second control signal for a multiple shifting operation in response to the manual input received by one of the input device and the additional input device. The controller is further configured to output one of a first control signal and a second control signal based on a state of the human-powered vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2019Date of Patent: November 10, 2020Assignee: Shimano Inc.Inventors: Masahiro Honda, Hideaki Yao, Satoshi Shahana, Katsuhiro Tachibana
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Patent number: 10647381Abstract: A display unit for an electric bicycle, the display unit being fastenable to a handlebar of bicycle with the aid of a holding assembly. A display unit is mountable with the aid of holding assembly optionally in a first mounting position closer to the rider or in a second mounting position further away from the rider. Furthermore disclosed is an electric bicycle having such a display unit.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2018Date of Patent: May 12, 2020Assignee: BIKETEC AGInventors: Ivica Durdevic, Lukas Beat Studer, Philipp Walter Suter, Simon Lanz, Robin Woodtli, Timo Woelk, Omar Afzal
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Patent number: 10569836Abstract: An automatic bicycle drivetrain shifting apparatus comprising a bicycle drive chain derailleur apparatus powered by a servo gearmotor and controlled through a highly adaptable user interface serving to automatically alternate drive chain position between available bicycle drive sprockets based on user preset and in real time modifiable criteria and additionally making use of critical chain driver apparatus serving to ensure chain motion is always available to satisfy derailleur operation requirements often prevalent during coasting and stopping where the bicycle speed changes while pedaling motion has ceased.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2019Date of Patent: February 25, 2020Inventor: Hazem Nihad Hamed
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Patent number: 10457350Abstract: A bicycle control system is basically provided with a power supply, a first bicycle electric component and a controller. The first bicycle electric component is electrically connected to the power supply to receive electrical power from the power supply. The controller is programmed to monitor an electrical communication of the first bicycle electric component. The controller is further programmed to stop electrical power from the power supply to the first bicycle electric component upon determining no electrical communication to or from the first bicycle electric component for a first predetermined inactivity period.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2015Date of Patent: October 29, 2019Assignee: Shimano Inc.Inventor: Yoshiyuki Kasai
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Patent number: 10295026Abstract: A belt drive system for a vehicle, such as a combine harvester. The belt drive system uses a driven pulley which is selectively engageable with a driven shaft to supply rotation to the shaft. The pulley is mounted on a fixed, i.e. non-rotating, housing using suitable bearings, such that the bearings of the pulley continue to rotate and are dynamically loaded for all rotation conditions of the driven pulley, i.e. whether the pulley is engaged with the shaft or not. This prevents damage to the bearings due to false brinelling.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2016Date of Patent: May 21, 2019Assignee: AGCO CorporationInventors: Nicholas H. Williams, Andrew Mark Veer
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Patent number: 10184849Abstract: A power meter for a bicycle includes a body having a torque input section and a torque output section, the body configured to transmit power between the torque input section and the torque output section. The power meter also includes a printed circuit board (“PCB”) having a substrate and at least one strain measurement device which may be attached to the PCB.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2017Date of Patent: January 22, 2019Assignee: SRAM, LLCInventors: Ryan Jennings, John Eppen, Owen Anders Britton, Jesse Parker
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Patent number: 10106223Abstract: A bicycle control system is provided that is configured to control a bicycle component using a threshold value that is appropriate for the rider. The bicycle control system includes a controller for controlling a bicycle component based on a threshold value and a parameter related to a running state of a bicycle. The controller changes the threshold value when an operating unit is operated, and the change amount of the threshold value when the operating unit is operated is determined based on an operating state of the operating unit.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2016Date of Patent: October 23, 2018Assignee: Shimano Inc.Inventors: Makoto Usui, Takashi Komemushi, Taihei Nishihara
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Patent number: 9932091Abstract: A bicycle operating device basically includes an operating member and a click mechanism. The click mechanism includes an input part, an output part and an intermediate part. The intermediate part is movable between the input and output parts to transmit movement from the input part to the output part in accordance with movement of the operating member. The intermediate part contacts the input part at a first contact point, and contacts the output part at a second contact point. The intermediate part and the output part define a first angle that decreases as the operating member moves from the first position toward the second position. The first angle has an apex at the second contact point, a first leg extending from the second contact point to a center of the pivot of the output part and a second leg extending from the second contact point to the first contact point.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2016Date of Patent: April 3, 2018Assignee: Shimano Inc.Inventor: Tatsuya Kawakami
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Patent number: 9919757Abstract: A bicycle includes a frame, a front and rear wheel and a crank assembly. The frame includes chainstays and a bottom bracket having a center and which rotationally receives the crank assembly. The crank assembly includes a chain ring having a radius between the bottom bracket center and a circumferential edge. The chainstays are connected to the bottom bracket at a first end and rotationally receive the rear wheel at a second end. The chainstay defines a cutout sized to receive a portion of a circumferential edge of the chain ring.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2016Date of Patent: March 20, 2018Assignee: SPECIALIZED BICYCLE COMPONENTS, INC.Inventors: Douglas Graham Russell, Todd Cannatelli, Jamie Stafford, Jason McDonald
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Patent number: 9802673Abstract: A number of variations may include an electric cycle powertrain having a first planetary gear set and a second planetary gear set, wherein the second planetary gear set is constructed and arranged to selectively overdrive a pedal cadence and wherein the first planetary gear set is constructed and arranged to selectively provide additional gear ratio for a motor.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2015Date of Patent: October 31, 2017Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Steven L. Hayslett, Shawn H. Swales, Richard J. Lannen, Jussi A. Timonen
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Patent number: 9714067Abstract: A bicycle chain device that includes a mounting bracket configured to be affixed to a bicycle. The bicycle has a solitary bicycle front sprocket. A cage is movably mounted to the mounting bracket so that the cage is positioned adjacent to the front sprocket. The cage has a chain-receiving slot, through which a bicycle chain passes. The cage is configured to move in accordance with a shifting operation of a bicycle rear derailleur to maintain alignment with a chain to prevent the chain from falling off the sprocket.Type: GrantFiled: February 29, 2016Date of Patent: July 25, 2017Assignee: Shimano Inc.Inventor: Nobukatsu Hara
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Patent number: 9669896Abstract: The present invention provides a sensor arrangement. The signal from the sensor is used to control an auxiliary motor of a vehicle propelled by muscular strength. The auxiliary motor is there integrated into a wheel hub unit of the vehicle. The wheel hub unit comprises a stationary axle and a hub rotatably mounted to the axle. According to the invention, the assembly comprises the sensor and a freewheel of the drive train, which is propelled by muscular strength, mounted rotatable relative to the axle, where the sensor is arranged such that it detects a rotational motion of the freewheel relative to the axle.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2015Date of Patent: June 6, 2017Assignee: MAXON MOTOR AGInventors: Chen Zhao, Franz-Xaver Folmli, Max Erick Busse-Grawitz, Mathis Trachsel
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Patent number: 9586649Abstract: In the present invention, one or both of an active wheel or a passive wheel is composed of an eccentric transmission wheel and is combined with a synchronous transmission belt for forming an eccentric wheel transmission wheel series, so that when the feet input forces at different angles from the treadle shafts of the treadles to an active wheel shaft combined on the active wheel through cranks, the active wheel forms different transmission speed ratios relative to the passive wheel according to the treadle angle, and random inward packing is performed to the transmission belt (100) of the engage end of the eccentric passive wheel (413) during the transmission for stabling the operation.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2013Date of Patent: March 7, 2017Inventor: Tai-Her Yang
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Patent number: 9556938Abstract: A speed select shift mechanism for a belt drive assembly to be installed on a shaft capable of shifting between high, low and neutral speeds is disclosed. The shift mechanism includes a shift collar that is enclosed within an enclosure to prevent debris from contacting the inner operations of the shift mechanism and thereby reduce wear and tear of the shift mechanism along with down time for maintenance of the device. The shift mechanism includes a shaft, a first pulley, a shift collar, a second pulley and a shifter. The shift collar further includes dowels that cooperatively engage corresponding apertures on the pulleys.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2012Date of Patent: January 31, 2017Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLCInventors: Craig Elwyn Murray, Nicholas Laufenberg, Scott Hogan, Orlin Wayne Johnson
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Patent number: 9469377Abstract: A bicycle gear changing apparatus is basically provided with a controller that includes memory with a plurality of pre-stored shift tables. The controller is configured to control a shifting operation of at least one of a first gear changing device and a second gear changing device based on a selected one of the pre-stored shift tables.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 2015Date of Patent: October 18, 2016Assignee: Shimano Inc.Inventor: Mao Kuroda
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Patent number: 9334015Abstract: The present invention is directed to a derailleur that can include: a base plate disposed between a perimeter of a drive sprocket nest and a pedal sprocket; a chain guide attached to said base plate for moving a chain laterally causing said chain to move from sprocket to sprocket in a sprocket nest; a chain guide surface included in said chain guide for causing said chain to contact over ½ a perimeter of said pedal sprocket decreasing the likelihood of the chain slipping off said sprocket; and, a tension member attached to said base plate for removing slack in a chain as the chain moves from a larger sprocket to a smaller sprocket.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2014Date of Patent: May 10, 2016Assignee: Zike, LLCInventors: Nathan A. Scolari, George Reiter
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Patent number: 9020694Abstract: A bicycle-use measuring apparatus includes a sensor and a controller. The sensor is configured to be installed on a bicycle having a rotating part. The controller is operatively connected to the sensor. The controller adjusts a detection frequency of the sensor in accordance with changes in a rotational state of the rotating part.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 2012Date of Patent: April 28, 2015Assignee: Shimano Inc.Inventor: Satoshi Kitamura
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Publication number: 20150102579Abstract: The present invention provides a two wheel vehicle structure, including: a vehicle frame and a multi-ratio transmission system. The vehicle frame has two wheels and an input tubular member. A crank is attached at each end of the input tubular member. The multi-ratio transmission system includes: a multi-ratio transmission device, a first sprocket, a second sprocket and a chain. The multi-ratio transmission device is installed inside the input tubular member and located at a rotation center of the cranks. The second sprocket is coaxially installed on a wheel axle of a driving wheel and is provided with a ratchet wheel. When the cranks rotate, the rotation motion of the cranks are transmitted to the first sprocket through the multi-ratio transmission device, subsequently, the motion is transmitted to the second sprocket from the first sprocket through the chain, thereby propelling the driving wheel to rotate.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 14, 2014Publication date: April 16, 2015Inventor: Cheng Ho Chen
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Publication number: 20150102578Abstract: The present invention provides a two wheel vehicle structure, including: a vehicle frame and a multi-ratio transmission system. The vehicle frame has two wheels and an input tubular member. A crank is attached at each end of the input tubular member. The multi-ratio transmission system includes: a multi-ratio transmission device, a first sprocket, a second sprocket and a chain. The multi-ratio transmission device is installed inside the input tubular member and located at a rotation center of the cranks. The second sprocket is coaxially installed on a wheel axle of a driving wheel. The chain is engaged with the first sprocket and the second sprocket. When the cranks rotate, the rotation motion of the cranks are transmitted to the first sprocket through the multi-ratio transmission device, subsequently, the motion is transmitted to the second sprocket from the first sprocket through the chain, thereby propelling the driving wheel to rotate.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 10, 2014Publication date: April 16, 2015Inventor: Cheng-Ho Chen
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Publication number: 20140346752Abstract: A recumbent cycle includes a toothed belt drive system and rear suspension. It also includes a double A-arm suspension assembly and at least one transmission having a planetary gear arrangement.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 9, 2014Publication date: November 27, 2014Inventor: C. Martin Rasmussen
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Publication number: 20130277940Abstract: A propulsion system for a manually-operated mobility device includes a hand rim configured to receive a propulsion force from a user of the manually-operated mobility device, a wheel hub fixedly attached to a wheel for the manually-operated mobility device, and a planetary gear system including a sun gear, a ring gear, and one or more planetary gears disposed between the sun gear and the ring gear. The one or more planetary gears are supported by a planet carrier. One of the sun gear and the ring gear is fixedly coupled to the hand rim and the other of the sun gear and the ring gear is fixedly coupled to the wheel hub.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 14, 2013Publication date: October 24, 2013Applicant: Madcelerator LLCInventors: Salim Nasser, Kevin Kerwin, John Grosz, Ryan Bollig
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Patent number: 8317213Abstract: A model vehicle slipper clutch is provided, comprising a spur gear for receiving torque from an actuator, a clutch driver plate secured to the spur gear for receiving torque from the spur gear, a transmission input shaft for transmitting torque from the slipper clutch to a model vehicle transmission, a spring for applying a load to the driver plate in the axial direction of the transmission input shaft, a bearing positioned between the spring and driver plate for supporting the spur gear for rotation about the transmission input shaft and for applying a load from the spring to the drive plate in the axial direction of the transmission input shaft.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 2011Date of Patent: November 27, 2012Assignee: Traxxas LPInventor: Brent Whitfield Byers
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Patent number: 8272655Abstract: A mini bike for strengthening a leg muscle, and for enjoying amusement and a leisure time is provided. The mini bike having a pedal as a power generator includes: a driver having a first bevel gear in order to transmit rotation power generated by a rolling motion of a pedal; a second bevel gear installed to transmit rotation power generated in the driver; a first power transmission gear coaxially installed in the second bevel gear to transmit rotation power to a spline shaft; a clutch positioned at the spline shaft to selectively connect rotation power of the first power transmission gear to a first gearshift and a second gearshift and for controlling a low speed and a high speed; a first driving gear and a second driving gear for rotating by selection of the clutch; and a driving controller including a gearshift in which the clutch is connected to the cable in order to select the first gearshift and the second gearshift.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 2008Date of Patent: September 25, 2012Inventor: Mi Nar Kim
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Patent number: 8201839Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 2010Date of Patent: June 19, 2012Inventor: Tai-Her Yang
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Publication number: 20120024613Abstract: A bicycle device with an internal drivetrain that eliminates any external mechanical drivetrain components. An internal drive gear is driven by user pedal input, which provides torque and rotation to a plurality of gear rods, connecting rods and disk gears. Gear ratio and speed choice is controlled by the drive gear and a first disk gear, which incorporate a variable gear pitch moving radially outward for which to mate with the gear rods. The drivetrain terminates at a hubless rear wheel, which rotates a tire tread around a stationary hub. Controls for the bicycle are provided in a handle bar stem device that manipulate the position of the gear rods and brake calipers. The front and rear wheel are separable from the central frame of the device for storage and transport. Overall, the present invention provides a sleek, modern upgrade to the traditional bicycle device, and incorporates several features that improve its design.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 26, 2011Publication date: February 2, 2012Inventor: Nanh Souvanny
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Publication number: 20110115189Abstract: An enclosed bicycle drivetrain is provided that produces a range of drive ratios suitable for any riding purpose. The enclosure of substantially the entire drivetrain is made practical by the synergistic cooperation of a planetary drive system using a single chain ring and a streamlined rear derailleur system that separates the tensioning and chain guiding functions of a conventional rear derailleur, allowing the rear derailleur components to remain substantially within the shadow of the outer perimeter of the bicycle frame. The planetary drive system is provided with a unique compound pawl that may be easily disengaged from a planetary ratchet member under full riding loads by the application of a small force to destabilize the pawl. A unique shift buffer mechanism cooperates with the rear derailleur system to buffer and store up to the full range of available shift commands.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 23, 2011Publication date: May 19, 2011Applicant: PATTERSON BICYCLE TRANSMISSION LLCInventor: Sam Harwell Patterson
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Patent number: 7922612Abstract: A power supply structure for a bicycle basically includes a battery configured to be supported on a frame of the bicycle, a junction attachable to the frame of the bicycle and first, second, third and fourth cable portions. The first cable portion extends between the junction and the battery providing an electrical connection therebetween. The second cable portion extends between the junction and a bicycle shifter mechanism connecting end providing an electrical connection therebetween. The third cable portion extends between the junction and a bicycle front derailleur connecting end providing an electrical connection therebetween. The fourth cable portion extends between the junction and a bicycle rear derailleur connecting end providing an electrical connection therebetween.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2009Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Shimano Inc.Inventors: Fumiaki Yoshida, Kazuhiro Fujii
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Patent number: 7900946Abstract: A bicycle shifting control apparatus is provided with a gear selection signal receiving section, a gearshift determination section and a gearshift output section. The gear selection signal receiving section selectively receives a first gear selection signal and a first/second gear selection signal. The gearshift determination section determines a first rider shift intention for first gear shifting when the first gear selection signal is received, which meets a first signal criteria, and determines a second rider shift intention for performing second gear shifting in addition to the first shifting when the first/second gear selection signal is received by, which meets a second (different) signal criteria. The gearshift output section outputs a first gearshift signal upon determining the first rider shift intention or the second rider shift intention exists and outputs a second gearshift signal upon determining that the second rider shift intention exists.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2009Date of Patent: March 8, 2011Assignee: Shimano Inc.Inventors: Nobukatsu Hara, Toshikuni Suzuki, Kazuhiro Takeda
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Patent number: 7644944Abstract: A multiple gear transmission for a bicycle with an input shaft and an output shaft supported in a transmission housing, whereby the input shaft is embodied to receive pedal cranks and both ends of the input shaft protrude from the transmission housing. One of the ends of the output shaft protrudes from the transmission housing and the output shaft is embodied at this end to receive a drive sprocket. At least one intermediate shaft is supported in the transmission housing parallel between the input shaft and the output shaft. Respectively, at least two gear wheels are arranged on the input shaft, the at least one intermediate shaft and the output shaft. The gear wheels arranged on at least two of the shafts can be connected in a torque-proof manner to the respective shaft via clutch mechanism. All the gear wheels are permanently meshed with another gear wheel.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 2005Date of Patent: January 12, 2010Inventor: Karlheinz Nicolai
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Publication number: 20090105029Abstract: A transmission and a motor or non-motor type transport device including a cross-coupling power train using the transmission, such as chainless bicycle or wagon with two or four wheels are disclosed. The transmission includes a coarse adjustment gearshift of internal gear type and a fine adjustment gearshift of differential gear type which are mounted on a main shaft to change the speed and are selectively connected to each other by a shift lever to provide low-speed rotation and high-speed rotation.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 14, 2008Publication date: April 23, 2009Inventor: Jong-Dae KIM
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Publication number: 20090026727Abstract: An automatic transmission for an electric vehicle hub includes an external motor rotor fixedly connected with a motor shaft; a sun gear; at least three primary planet gears which are engaged with the sun gear; and at least three secondary planet gears coaxially fixed with the primary planet gears. The primary and the secondary planet gears are engaged with a primary and a secondary internal gears, and the secondary internal gear has a diameter greater than that of the primary internal gear. The rotating disk is arranged between the primary internal gear and the secondary internal gear, and a hub is fixed to exterior of the rotating disk. The automatic transmission further includes a clutch device, making the rotating disk and the primary internal gear contact with each other for a transmission of slower rpm, and when the rpm reaches critical, at a high-speed rotation.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 15, 2008Publication date: January 29, 2009Applicants: Fairly Bike Manufacturing Co., Ltd, Xiang-Yi LINInventor: Xiang-Yi Lin
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Publication number: 20090020978Abstract: A gear shifting system (1) particularly characterized in that the values required for displacement of the gear-shifting elements(s) (e.g. front changer (Y1) and rear changer (Z1)), are applied to each program (s) (e.g.: indexed or non-indexed multibossed cam(s) which is/are integrated into at least one gear shifting elements (Y1) and/or (Z1). Preferably, the system is provided with more than one program (e.g. a cam for the front changer and a cam for the rear changer, both of which can be combined to form a single changer (preferably, a front changer), the programs being synchronized directly or indirectly, e.g. by a single control elements (X) (e.g. an indexed or non-indexed handle) acting via transmission elements (e.g. cables (4A) and (5A) cooperating with casings (6)). The system the performance of the changers by organizing, i.e. synchronizing, the gear ratios via a disk/drive pinion combination potential.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 22, 2004Publication date: January 22, 2009Inventor: Franck Savard
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Patent number: 7434489Abstract: A bicycle drive system includes a front gear face, a rear gear face, a front guide assembly, a rear guide assembly, and a drive shaft coupled to a rear-suspension frame via a rear hub and a crank spindle. The bicycle drive system operates independently of the frame. Shifting from one gear to another is controlled by a shift controller. Each shift of the shift controller shifts both the front and rear guide assemblies at the same time. The shift controller is preferably coupled to the front and rear guide assemblies via a cable system.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 2004Date of Patent: October 14, 2008Inventor: Peter Scranton
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Publication number: 20080203696Abstract: The Abdomicycle is a three or four-wheeled vehicle, (depending upon vehicle model) on which a rider sits upon a seat, leans back against a backrest which is provided for comfort and safety purposes and propels the vehicle either forward or reverse by a reciprocating motion on a bar that encloses them as they sit on the Abdomicycle. The bar is connected to either the single or dual rear wheels via a crank type mechanism that allows the linear pushing/pulling of the bar from front to back to be converted into a circular motion for the purpose of driving the rear wheel or wheels. The occupant's feet rest upon a forward steering linkage system that allows either foot pressure, or the leaning position of the occupant's body to turn the vehicle to the right or left. The vehicle includes a braking system connected by cable to the wheel(s) for the purpose of stopping the vehicle. The Abdomicycle is designed as a manually powered vehicle for exercises.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 11, 2007Publication date: August 28, 2008Inventor: Shunsuke Akagi
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Publication number: 20070296176Abstract: A bicycle shift control device comprises a traveling state detecting circuit that detects a traveling state of the bicycle and a manually operated switch that outputs a switch signal. A shift control circuit provides a control signal, in response to the switch signal provided by the operation of the switch, for setting the speed stage of a bicycle transmission to correspond to the range of traveling states that contains the detected traveling state.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 25, 2006Publication date: December 27, 2007Applicant: SHIMANO, INC.Inventor: ETSUYOSHI WATARAI
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Patent number: 7146008Abstract: A digitally encrypted audio signal may be transmitted with an analog television signal. Access to the analog television video signal may be controlled by using graphics overlay techniques. The use of digital encryption techniques on the audio channel prevents improper interception.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2000Date of Patent: December 5, 2006Assignee: Intel CaliforniaInventors: Eric C. Hannah, Benjamin M. Cahill, III
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Patent number: 6979009Abstract: A motorized bicycle derailleur assembly is provided with a motor unit, a derailleur, and a motor linkage. The motor unit rotates an output shaft in first and second rotational directions to shift the derailleur. The derailleur includes a fixing body, a chain guide and a derailleur linkage operatively coupled between the fixing body and the chain guide to move between a first shift position and a second shift position. The motor linkage is operatively coupled to the output shaft of the motor unit and the derailleur linkage to move the chain guide from the first shift position to the second shift position upon rotation of the output shaft in the first rotational direction and move the chain guide from the second shift position to the first shift position upon rotation of the output shaft in the second rotational direction.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2004Date of Patent: December 27, 2005Assignee: Shimano Inc.Inventors: Tadashi Ichida, Kazuhiro Fujii
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Patent number: 6959939Abstract: A bicycle shift control device is adapted to be mounted to a bicycle equipped with an alternating current generator and a shifting device having a plurality of speed steps. The shift control device includes a power storage unit adapted to store electrical power from the alternating current generator; a shift control element operatively coupled for receiving electrical power from the power storage unit and for providing shift control signals for controlling the operation of the shifting device; and a case adapted to be mounted to the bicycle, wherein the case houses both the power storage unit and the shift control element.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2002Date of Patent: November 1, 2005Assignee: Shimano, Inc.Inventors: Kazuhiro Fujii, Kouji Uno
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Patent number: 6843741Abstract: A bell crank for a bicycle hub transmission includes a wire connecting bell crank member for connecting to a control wire, an actuator moving bell crank member for moving an actuating member, and an adjusting mechanism for adjusting a position of the wire connecting bell crank member relative to the actuator moving bell crank member.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 2002Date of Patent: January 18, 2005Assignee: Shimano, Inc.Inventor: Kazuhiro Fujii
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Patent number: 6772563Abstract: A mobile accommodation unit in container form for use as mobile hospital or mobile control or command center or the like has a box-shaped main box element and at least one secondary box element. In a transport state, the secondary box element is telescoped into the main box element. For setting up an accommodation unit of increased floor area, the secondary box element can be pulled out of a lateral opening of the main box element. In order to provide a continuous floor surface, after the secondary box element has been pulled out, the main box element has a movable floor element, which can be lifted relative to a basic floor element so as to equalize the floor levels of the main box element and the secondary box element.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 2002Date of Patent: August 10, 2004Assignee: Wietmarscher Ambulanz & Sonderfahrzeug GmbHInventor: Peter Kuhn
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Publication number: 20040083839Abstract: This transmission operates by use of a drive shaft, that by being extendible and retractable, can vary in length. Gears on each end of the drive shaft deliver power from one of a number of concentric rings of gear teeth on a pedal drive to a similar arrangement on a wheel drive. The drive shaft by moving between these concentric rings can vary the gear ratios of the power delivered. A cam wheel and spring mounted ball bearings are employed to change the length of the drive shaft and especially, lift the drive shaft off of the pedal drive/wheel drive as it disengages and set it down to engage the next set of concentric gears. An alternative method to the use of a cam wheel that performs the same function is also described. This allows a radial taper to all engaging gears and a deeper seat.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 4, 2002Publication date: May 6, 2004Inventor: Terry Luke Hahn
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Patent number: 6695332Abstract: A bicycle with a forward and backward pedaling system which drives a bicycle forward in either a forward or a backward pedaling.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2002Date of Patent: February 24, 2004Inventor: Heo Hyun Kang
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Patent number: 6682087Abstract: A control system for an automatic shifting bicycle transmission comprises a control unit that communicates with a memory location. The memory location stores a plurality of shift tables. The control system uses the information in the shift tables to shift gears with a powered shifting device. The powered shifting device can be manipulated using shift switches in a manual operating mode. The shift switches also are used to switch between the plurality of shift tables.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2002Date of Patent: January 27, 2004Assignee: Shimano, Inc.Inventor: Kazuhiro Takeda
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Patent number: 6588785Abstract: The present invention relates to a vehicle, which is specifically adapted to be used as a bumper car. The vehicle is constructed from a frame that allows the vehicle to absorb and deliver impacts in a more efficient manner. Additionally, the vehicle includes steering and clutch assemblies-that allow for increased maneuverability. This increased maneuverability makes for,a more pleasurable and exciting bumper car game.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2001Date of Patent: July 8, 2003Assignee: C & A Products, Inc.Inventor: Chuck Monary
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Publication number: 20030109976Abstract: A control method of a transmission system in a human-powered vehicle based on a forecasting comfortable power consumption and a comfortable cadence is provided in this invention to supply a comfortable travel for a controller of a human-powered vehicle. This control method includes the steps of sensing a traveling distance in one past period and an inclination. Then the controller may forecast a comfortable power consumption in the virtual period and calculate a forecasting traveling distance in the virtual period from the forecasting power consumption. Afterward, controller may calculate a forecasting optimum gear ratio from the forecasting traveling distance and a comfortable cadence and may generate control signals to the transmission system in the human-powered vehicle. The transmission system in the human-powered vehicle then automatically adjust its gear ratio to the forecasting optimum gear ratio or automatically choose an existing gear ratio which is most close to the forecasting optimum gear ratio.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 28, 2002Publication date: June 12, 2003Applicant: Falcon Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventors: Huai-Ching Chien, Ching-Huan Tseng
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Patent number: 6490507Abstract: Computer for a bicycle includes a speed change with a chain transmission, including a plurality of front crown wheels (16) which can be driven in rotation by a pair of pedal cranks (18) and a plurality of rear sprockets (20), a first sensor (30) for providing an electric signal indicating the speed of rotation of one wheel of the bicycle, a second sensor (32) for providing an electric signal indicating the speed of rotation of the pedal cranks (18), and a third sensor (38) for providing an electric signal indicating which is the selected front crown wheel. The computer has a display (24) for displaying riding information of the bicycle, and an electronic control programmed so as to determine the number of teeth (Zp) of the selected rear sprocket as a function of said signals and as a function of stored data indicating the number of teeth (Zc) of the front crown wheels (16).Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 1999Date of Patent: December 3, 2002Assignee: Campagnolo SrlInventor: Valentino Campagnolo
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Patent number: 6468178Abstract: A rear wheel hub and chainless drive train gear assembly for use on a bicycle having an axle bracket fixed to the frame of the bicycle, a spindle extending axially through the axle bracket and left and right pedal crank arms for rotating the spindle upon application of a pedaling force. A primary drive gear fitted to the spindle drivingly engages carrier gears which operate a planet gear cage housing and a multiple planetary gear and sun gear arrangement according to various gear ratios determined by selective operation of a clutch assembly. Planetary gear groups each include an integral set of planetary gears of varying size which mesh with corresponding sun gear rings. Operation of the clutch assembly serves to selectively engage pawl stops with a corresponding sun gear ring, thereby engaging the corresponding sun gear ring with one of the planetary gears of the planetary gear groups according to a selected gear ratio.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2001Date of Patent: October 22, 2002Inventor: Mani Mohtasham
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Publication number: 20020130483Abstract: The invention is to provide a chainless transmission mechanism comprising a first shaft connected to a pedal of the bicycle; a first bevel gear connected to the first shaft; a second shaft perpendicular to the first shaft, two ends of which are connected to a second bevel gear and a third bevel gear, respectively, the second bevel gear being matched with the first bevel gear to drive the second shaft; a fourth bevel gear mounted on an axle of a rear-wheel hub of the bicycle to engage with the third bevel gear; a ratchet clutch connected between the rear-wheel hub and the axle; and a connection member connected between the fourth bevel gear and the rear-wheel hub. A bicycle with the chainless transmission mechanism of the invention is of a simple manufacturing process and a lower cost.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 2002Publication date: September 19, 2002Inventors: Yongqiang Huang, Jinhong Zhang, Yaocai Ou, Weihua Ruan, Shaofang Wu, Ronghua Xiao