Oscillating Lever Patents (Class 280/244)
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Patent number: 12042444Abstract: A personal mobility device includes a control system including a manually operated actuator, a first forward control valve having an inlet in fluid connection with a source of pressurized gas and an outlet in fluid connection with a first forward port of at least a first pneumatic motor, and a first rearward control valve having an inlet in fluid connection with the source of pressurized gas and an outlet in fluid connection with a first rearward port of the first pneumatic motor. Movement of the manually operated actuator controls actuation of the first forward control valve and the first rearward control valve and thereby flow of gas from the source of pressurized gas to the first forward port and the first rearward port.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2019Date of Patent: July 23, 2024Assignees: University of Pittsburgh—Of the Commonwealth System of Higher Education, The United States Government as represented by the Department of Veterans AffairsInventors: Rory Alan Cooper, Brandon Joseph Daveler, Garrett G. Grindle, Benjamin Todd Gebrosky
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Patent number: 11891152Abstract: A vehicle is powered and steered by a rider's arm. The vehicle may be a cycle or a tricycle Propulsion occurs in response to the rider pushing and pulling on the handlebar along a fore-and-aft direction. The propulsion mechanism resists or prevents the cycle from unintentionally rolling in reverse. Steering occurs in response to the rider pushing the handlebar to the right or left. The steering mechanism responds the same no matter where the propulsion system is in its range of motion and can provide approximately a 5-foot turning radius for a rider steering input, by moving the handlebar approximately 1 foot right or left of center steer, while maintaining front wheel alignment. A shifting mechanism provides multiple settings between lower gears for hills and higher gears for speed.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2021Date of Patent: February 6, 2024Inventor: Gregory Allan Seljestad
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Patent number: 11220281Abstract: A connector for releasably attaching two wheeled-carts, wherein one can be a stroller and the other can be a wheelchair. The connector comprises an elongated body that forms an arm that is configured to be foldable, detachable or combination of both foldable and detachable, a first clamp connected to one end of the arm via a joint member, a locking arrangement for enabling to lock the arm in an unfolded position, and a second clamp connected to the other end of the arm.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2019Date of Patent: January 11, 2022Assignee: FREEWILL LTDInventors: Jonathan Bar-Or, Dana Yichye Shwachman
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Patent number: 11033444Abstract: Wheelchair with two independent driving arms fixed to the frame by pivot bearings at a low position. The driving arms extend to a sufficient height for the user to hold their upper portions and to move them in forward-backward directions around the pivotal bearings. Ropes are connected to the lower sections of the driving arms. Two large wheels have wheel hubs equipped with freewheel, and each wheel hub have a rope drums attached with a spring bias, and a winding made of rope. Pulling a the rope in forward direction results in turning the wheel hub in forward direction, and when the rope drum (31, 31?) is turned in the other direction the freewheel releases the connection towards the large wheel. The wheel hub comprises a release mechanism that releases the freewheel when the large wheel is moved in backward direction and backward movement gets allowed.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 2019Date of Patent: June 15, 2021Inventors: László Mórucz, Zoltán Kálazi
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Patent number: 10993860Abstract: This invention is a rotational manual propulsion wheel chair hand pedal to be fitted to the axles of both wheels of a wheel chair. The rotational wheel chair hand pedal is attached to the two large wheels of a wheel chair by means of being directly attached to the axles and or hubs securely of the wheel chair's wheels, or surrounding the hubs of the wheel chair's wheels. The rotational wheel chair hand pedal has an arm, which fits from the wheel chair's axle and or hub to the wheel chairs wheel's rim. The position of the handles is fixed by retractable and is adjustable by pressing a button at the end of the handle to retract the pins.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2018Date of Patent: May 4, 2021Inventor: Simon S. McNally
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Patent number: 10875599Abstract: Vehicle (110) including a frame (114), a seat mounted to the frame (114), wheels (116, 118) rotatably mounted on the frame (114), and drive mechanisms (112) for causing rotation of one wheel (116). Each drive mechanism (112) includes an arm (132) pivotally attached to the frame (114) at one end, a weight (136) and attached pedal (138) at an opposite end of the arm (132), and a guide member (142) including a bump (150) and that moves in conjunction with movement of the weight (136). The guide member (142) has a first end region at which it is pivotally attached to the frame (114) and a second, opposite end region which is free. A roller (140) attached to the arm (132) moves along the guide member (142) during pivotal movement of the arm (132) to cause pivoting of the guide member (142) as the roller (140) engages with the bump (150). An energy transfer system (148) converts pivotal movement of the guide member (142) into motive power to rotate the wheel (116).Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2017Date of Patent: December 29, 2020Assignee: Cyclazoom, LLCInventor: Michael Kipnis
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Patent number: 10548785Abstract: A hand propelled wheeled vehicle, specifically a wheelchair, containing a pair of hand actuated, lever driven mechanisms to rotate the main wheels. The levers pivot around attachment points on the left and right sides of the vehicle chassis. The left lever actuates a frame responsible for contra-rotating two integral one-way clutches arranged on a drive shaft coupled to the left main wheel, with the right lever operating the right side mechanism in an identical fashion. The arrangements of the clutches utilize both the forward (pushing) and backward (pulling) stroke of the lever to rotate the main wheels forward. Steering and braking control is afforded through attachments integral to the hand grips of the right and left hand levers, respectively.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2017Date of Patent: February 4, 2020Inventors: Hans Vermij, Maximiliaan Vermij, Mitchel James MacLatchie
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Patent number: 10111789Abstract: A manual wheelchair propulsion device (FIGS. 5, 6 & 7), attached to wheelchairs through the axles of the rear wheels (FIGS. 14, 15, 16 & 17), attached through the wheel winder unit with a quick release head with ball Joint to lock in position (FIGS. 1, 2) to an adaptable socket either manufactured into the axle of the wheelchair wheel or attached rigidly with supports later (FIGS. 14, 15 & 17) with a retractable arm (FIGS. 5 & 6) with eight gears and one neutral (FIGS. 3, 12 & 13) used in a circular motion to manually propel ones self.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2014Date of Patent: October 30, 2018Inventor: Simon S. McNally
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Patent number: 9597242Abstract: A joint movement detection device and system is presented which is responsive to elbow or wrist movements during use of a manually-propelled wheelchair to enable coordination of assistive motor energization with a user's efforts at self-motivating the manually-propelled wheelchair during driving, steering, and braking of the wheelchair. Several embodiments are provided which help to ensure user-intended assistive motor output that is responsive to movement of the joint over which the device is worn.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2016Date of Patent: March 21, 2017Inventor: Stephen C. Golden, Jr.
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Patent number: 9498395Abstract: A joint movement detection device and system is presented which is responsive to elbow or wrist movements during use of a manually-propelled wheelchair to enable coordination of assistive motor energization with a user's efforts at self-motivating the manually-propelled wheelchair during driving, steering, and braking of the wheelchair. Several embodiments are provided which help to ensure user-intended assistive motor output that is responsive to movement of the joint over which the device is worn.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2015Date of Patent: November 22, 2016Inventor: Stephen C. Golden, Jr.
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Patent number: 9051025Abstract: A human-propulsion-system utilizing a telescoping arm lever assembly and an optional pedal assembly to be adapted to or incorporated into other mechanisms including, but not limited to, wheelchairs and vehicles. The arm lever assembly and the pedal assembly can be utilized in combination or independently further being operatively connected to a converter that utilizes gears and clutches to receive the reciprocal movements of the arm lever assembly and the rotational movements of the pedal assembly converting them into a combined unidirectional output. The arm lever assembly utilizes a slide mechanism that correspondingly moves the load end closer to the fulcrum point when the arm lever assembly is extended and correspondingly moves the load end farther away from the fulcrum point when the arm lever assembly is retracted offering a range of adjustable leverages. The arm lever assembly is further rotated left or right to provide a means of (steering) control.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2013Date of Patent: June 9, 2015Inventor: Kevin Alan Schminkey
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Patent number: 9010786Abstract: A multi-directional lever drive system comprising a lever drive assembly comprising a lever for imparting actuation for driving a shaft through a roller mechanism, and engaging a switch assembly whereby the properties of the roller mechanism can be selected to drive the shaft forward, neutral, and reverse. The proposed switch assemblies enable convenient direction control from the same lever that inputs actuation to the drive assembly, making the lever drive assembly suitable for systems such as a lever propelled wheelchair, a winch, and hand tools.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2014Date of Patent: April 21, 2015Inventors: Andrew Ekelem, Michelle Sangalang
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Publication number: 20140306421Abstract: A human-propulsion-system utilizing a telescoping arm lever assembly and an optional pedal assembly to be adapted to or incorporated into other mechanisms including, but not limited to, wheelchairs and vehicles. The arm lever assembly and the pedal assembly can be utilized in combination or independently further being operatively connected to a converter that utilizes gears and one-way clutches to receive the reciprocal movements of the arm lever assembly and the rotational movements of the pedal assembly converting them into a combined unidirectional output. The arm lever assembly utilizes a slide mechanism that correspondingly moves the load end closer to the fulcrum point when the arm lever assembly is extended and correspondingly moves the load end farther away from the fulcrum point when the arm lever assembly is retracted offering a range of adjustable leverages. The arm lever assembly is further rotated left or right to provide a means of (steering) control.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 11, 2013Publication date: October 16, 2014Inventor: Kevin Alan Schminkey
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Patent number: 8857838Abstract: A dual drive system for a non-motorized vehicle comprising a first drive unit disposed on a vehicle frame, wherein the first drive unit has a rotary action and is operatively associated with a first wheel assembly for turning a wheel; and, a second drive unit disposed on the vehicle frame, wherein the second drive unit has a lever action and is operatively associated with the first wheel assembly for turning the wheel. The first drive unit and the second drive unit are independently operable for turning the wheel.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2013Date of Patent: October 14, 2014Assignee: Zike, LLCInventors: Nathan Scolari, George Reiter
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Patent number: 8857839Abstract: A lever drive system for a scooter including a crank arm having a first distal end pivotally carried on a frame and operatively associated with a drive sprocket, wherein reciprocating movement of the crank arm causes rotation of the drive sprocket for moving a drive chain operatively associated with a wheel assembly. A footrest is disposed on the crank arm for operating the crank arm. A cam member is pivotally mounted to the frame generally adjacent the crank arm. A cam follower is carried by the crank arm engaging the cam member, wherein movement of the crank arm causes the cam follower to move along a contoured control surface of the cam member for controlling an up and down movement of the crank arm.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2013Date of Patent: October 14, 2014Assignee: Zike, LLCInventors: Nathan Scolari, George Reiter
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Patent number: 8844959Abstract: A manually powered wheelchair includes a first lever associated with a first rear wheel and demountably coupled to a first drivetrain, the first lever having a first brake thereon. The wheelchair also includes a second lever associated with a second rear wheel and demountably coupled to a second drivetrain, the second lever having a second brake thereon. Each drivetrain includes a chainring, a chain, and a freewheel, and each drivetrain has a fixed gear ratio. The freewheel of each drivetrain is actuated by manual pivoting of the lever associated therewith. In use, the wheelchair achieves changes in mechanical advantage when a user shifts the user's hands up and down the first and second levers.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2011Date of Patent: September 30, 2014Assignee: Global Research Innovation and Technology L3CInventors: Amos G. Winter, V, Mario A. Bollini, Danielle M. DeLatte, Harrison F. O'Hanley, Natasha K. Scolnik, Gwyndaf M. Jones, Daniel D. Frey, Benjamin Judge, Benjamin H. Gallup, Danielle Hicks, Nydia Ruleman, Xuefeng Chen
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Patent number: 8794650Abstract: One embodiment of a hands free bicycle maintenance pedaler provides means to the operator to have both hands free for adjusting, cleaning, lubricating, inspecting or locking the drive train components of a supported bicycle. One embodiment has a motor (1600) communicating with a power enclosure (1210) and a speed pedal (1205) to variably power said motor. Said motor frictionally engages with a motor plate (1500) through which an output shaft (1620) passes and frictionally engages with a crank interface arm (1700). Said crank interface arm contains a temporary connection means to a crank arm (190) using pair of connector rods (1745) along said crank arm. Said motor plate is pivotable and slidable along a carriage (1400). Said carriage is slidable along a tube (1300) or work stand (110) to achieve acceptable orientation between the device and an imaginary line through the center line of a bottom bracket of a bicycle.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2013Date of Patent: August 5, 2014Inventor: Jefferson S Williams
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Patent number: 8746720Abstract: A leisure fitness bike has a front frame hinged to a rear frame, a handlebar and a front wheel. A pedal body is installed at upper and lower ends of the front frame. The rear frame includes a saddle, a rear wheel and a rear wheel transmission device. A driving device is between the front and rear frames and coupled to a rear wheel transmission device. After a rider sits on the saddle and puts both hands and legs onto the handlebar and the pedal body, the front frame is moved forward and backward by stretching and contracting forces, and the driving device drives the rear wheel transmission device to roll the rear wheel and move the bike body.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 2012Date of Patent: June 10, 2014Assignee: Hsin Lung Accessories Co., Ltd.Inventors: Xue-Sen Liao, Jeeng-Neng Fan
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Publication number: 20140015218Abstract: A vehicle is provided that includes a frame having a drive member supported for rotation thereon. A handlebar is supported for pivotal movement relative to the frame. A drive mechanism is provided on the frame that is configured to rotate the drive member in a first rotational direction when the handlebar is pivoted in either a first direction using a push-stroke or a second direction using a pull-stroke.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 28, 2012Publication date: January 16, 2014Inventors: Adam C. Poor, Ralph T. Poor
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Patent number: 8540266Abstract: A wheelchair comprises a main frame and a seat mounted on the main frame. A pair of front wheels and a pair of rear wheels are also mounted on the frame. A propulsion mechanism is provided for driving the rear wheels, the propulsion mechanism comprising an arm lever for forward and back movement and a gear train between the arm lever and the rear wheels.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2011Date of Patent: September 24, 2013Inventor: Scott Bradley Baker
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Patent number: 8439379Abstract: A bicycle wherein the front wheel can be both steered and powered by reciprocal movement of the handle bars in a forward and rear direction. The drive system for the front wheel comprises a first linkage comprising two arms, one of which is a pivoting arm, and a second linkage comprising three arms, two of which are pivoting arms. The two arm linkage system is the primary driver in the sense of rotating a drive sprocket between two over center positions. The three arm linkage system, while also driving the drive sprocket, serves the primary function of moving the two arm linkage system over the two center positions, as the handle bars are reciprocated in forward and rear directions.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2011Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Inventor: Mark T. Schanzer
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Publication number: 20130082452Abstract: A leisure fitness bike has a front frame hinged to a rear frame, a handlebar and a front wheel. A pedal body is installed at upper and lower ends of the front frame. The rear frame includes a saddle, a rear wheel and a rear wheel transmission device. A driving device is between the front and rear frames and coupled to a rear wheel transmission device. After a rider sits on the saddle and puts both hands and legs onto the handlebar and the pedal body, the front frame is moved forward and backward by stretching and contracting forces, and the driving device drives the rear wheel transmission device to roll the rear wheel and move the bike body.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 15, 2012Publication date: April 4, 2013Applicant: HSIN LUNG ACCESSORIES CO., LTD.Inventors: XUE-SEN LIAO, JEENG-NENG FAN
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Patent number: 8388004Abstract: A personal transportation device comprises a riding platform supported by one or more wheels, a steering mechanism at least partially embedded in the riding platform and a drive wheel assembly. A first wheel may be steerable while a second wheel is a slave wheel. The steering mechanism may be foot-operated. The drive wheel may be hand-propelled and non-steerable. The drive wheel is operatively connected to a drive sprocket and chain and is coupled to the riding platform by a platform frame. The personal transportation device may comprise one or more track arm assemblies coupled to the drive wheel assembly such that movement of the track arm assemblies operates the drive wheel assembly and rotates a drive wheel to propel the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2010Date of Patent: March 5, 2013Inventor: Edward Walter
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Publication number: 20130015632Abstract: A manually powered wheelchair includes a first lever associated with a first rear wheel and demountably coupled to a first drivetrain, the first lever having a first brake thereon. The wheelchair also includes a second lever associated with a second rear wheel and demountably coupled to a second drivetrain, the second lever having a second brake thereon. Each drivetrain includes a chainring, a chain, and a freewheel, and each drivetrain has a fixed gear ratio. The freewheel of each drivetrain is actuated by manual pivoting of the lever associated therewith. In use, the wheelchair achieves changes in mechanical advantage when a user shifts the user's hands up and down the first and second levers.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 23, 2012Publication date: January 17, 2013Inventors: Amos G. Winter, V, Mario A. Bollini, Danielle M. DeLatte, Harrison F. O'Hanley, Natasha K. Scolnik, Gwyndaf M. Jones, Daniel D. Frey, Benjamin Judge, Benjamin H. Gallup, Danielle Hicks, Nydia Ruleman, Xuefeng Chen
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Patent number: 8336897Abstract: A standard-sized bicycle includes a main frame, a rear drive wheel and a rowing mechanism. The rowing mechanism is coupled to the steering column about a fulcrum. The fulcrum allows the rowing mechanism to oscillate forward in response to a pushing force and backward in response to a pulling force. The rowing mechanism includes a power lever and a pair of drive levers. The power lever has a handle on one end. The power lever also has a second end. The pair of drive levers extend from the second end of the power lever and provide foot rests for additional force. Each of the pair of drive levers is in mechanical communication with the rear drive wheel such that a forward oscillation of the rowing mechanism will drive the rear drive wheel in a same direction of rotation to propel the bicycle forward.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 2011Date of Patent: December 25, 2012Inventor: Juliana Leslie
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Patent number: 8256784Abstract: A vehicle with front and rear steering is disclosed. The vehicle can be a cycle. The cycle includes a front wheel steered by a front hand-steering mechanism, and two back wheels steered by a back hand-steering mechanism. The back wheels are dual inclined casters with full rotational movement. A drive train forward of the front wheel drives the front wheel, while a rider is inclined in a seat in a recumbent orientation. The front and rear steering provides unlimited maneuverability and turning capabilities.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 2011Date of Patent: September 4, 2012Inventors: Tyler Hadzicki, Joseph Hadzicki
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Patent number: 8181977Abstract: A bicycle arm-drive apparatus includes a stationary mounting structure, an arm drive input mechanism, a drive motion transmission mechanism, and a plurality of connectors. One end of the mounting structure attaches to the front-center portion of the bicycle. The arm drive input mechanism includes a pair of control arms that pivotally attach to the other end of the mounting structure and generally extend rearward and outward from there. The operator grips each control arm, inputting arm power by driving them fore-and-aft. The drive motion transmission mechanism includes a pair of connecting rod assemblies running down opposite sides of the bicycle frame between the control arms and bicycle pedals. A plurality of connectors link the connecting rod assemblies to the pedals and control arms in order to transmit control arm fore-and-aft movement via the connecting rod assemblies to the pedals to enable the arm power to assist with bicycle pedaling.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2009Date of Patent: May 22, 2012Inventor: Christopher B. Bartlett
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Patent number: 8157280Abstract: A mechanism for manually powering a vehicle is provided. The mechanism includes a frame and a first driver attached to the frame. The first driver rotates a driven wheel. A lever arm is pivotally attached to the frame and includes a first end having a pair of handles sized to be grasped and moved in a rowing motion by both hands of a person and a second end that rotatably attaches to a disk shaped second driver. A linkage is moved by the second driver when the person pivots the first end of the lever arm and the linkage rotates the first driver and the driven wheel. A steerable wheel and a steering member that are operated by the lever arm steer the steerable wheel. The steering member communicates moveably with a telescoping universal joint, the telescoping universal joint enabling the lever arm to be pivoted and steered.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2010Date of Patent: April 17, 2012Assignee: Morse Cycle Company LLCInventor: Robert M. Drymalski
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Patent number: 8118320Abstract: A steering mechanism for a push-and-pull vehicle provides a handlebar to be used to steer a vehicle left and right while simultaneously being used to drive the vehicle forward by pushing and pulling action. The handlebar is at the top of a swing pole, the swing pole being held by a turning sleeve on a swing arm pivoted on the vehicle frame. The swing pole connects the handlebar to a frame supported u-joint which is connected to a vehicle steering mechanism. The turning sleeve connects the handlebar and swing pole to the swing arm, the output of the swing arm driving the vehicle forward.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 2008Date of Patent: February 21, 2012Inventor: Rocky Jenlon Lee
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Patent number: 8113528Abstract: A racing wheelchair is disclosed. The racing wheelchair may have a pair of rear wheels and a steerable single front wheel. The rear wheels may be independently driven by a lever, through a derailer and a chain, such that pushing one of the two levers will move one of the wheels but not the other. The front wheel is steerable by twist grips located at the removed end of the levers. Brake assemblies and shifter assemblies of the derailers are located adjacent the twist grip, and may be rigidly mounted to the push lever or mounted to the twist grip to rotate therewith.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2011Date of Patent: February 14, 2012Inventor: William Taylor
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Patent number: 8109529Abstract: The present application pertains to a wheelchair having a frame; a seat attached to the frame and supporting a user; two lateral drive wheels mounted on essentially horizontal axes; and a propulsion system including a handle, an operating lever supporting said handle and having a friction element mounted onto the operating lever. The operating lever is movable axially with respect to one axis between a first and second position and radially. The friction element is arranged and constructed to frictionally engage said drive wheel in the first position and radial movement of the propulsion system propels the chair in a predetermined direction.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2009Date of Patent: February 7, 2012Inventors: Ethan Rand, Robert Koffsky
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Patent number: 8016310Abstract: An assembly for attachment of a propulsion system to a wheelchair frame includes a clamp which remains fixed to the frame, while an attachment device that enables three dimensions of adjustability permits quick release of a main wheel and the propulsion system (e.g., lever drive, pushrim and motor drive) that propels the main wheel. The clamp includes a first alignment feature, such as a pin. A spring-loaded latch may also be included. The attachment device includes a second alignment feature, such as a hole or slot, configured to mate with the first. To permit alignment for a number of different wheelchair frame geometries, the attachment device is rotatable to provide angular adjustability, structured to permit lengthwise adjustability, and coupled using hardware which provides offset adjustability in a direction generally parallel to the axis of the wheel.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2008Date of Patent: September 13, 2011Assignee: Daedalus Wings, Inc.Inventors: Bart Kylstra, Nathan Jauvtis
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Publication number: 20110187075Abstract: An improved wheelchair driving apparatus includes a driving rod pivotally installed at an axle of each driving wheel on both sides of a chair frame, and an external end of the driving rod being extended from an external rim of the driving wheel, a brake module installed at a position corresponding to the driving wheel and provided for fixing and releasing the driving wheel by a hand brake, such that users can release the driving wheel through the brake module by both hands to freely swing the driving rod back and forth or fix the brake module to the driving wheel through the hand brake to swing the driving rod back and forth to drive the driving wheel to move forward or backward, such that the wheelchair can be operated and controlled in an easier, more, conveniently, cleaner, less effort and safer manner.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 27, 2010Publication date: August 4, 2011Inventor: RONG-JEN WU
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Publication number: 20110187074Abstract: Propulsion apparatus which is mountable to the wheel (3) of a vehicle, and in particular a wheelchair, the apparatus comprising a wheel adapter assembly (1) which comprises a plurality of pivotable spoke assemblies (5) which are engageable with the rim (4) of the wheel, and a brake and drive arrangement (72) which comprises selectively engageable clutch arrangement which allows a user, by way of a lever arm portion (71), to propel the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 16, 2005Publication date: August 4, 2011Inventor: Andrew Malloy
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Patent number: 7967314Abstract: A wheeled vehicle drive mechanism is provided that has a hand leverage arm and one or more horizontal gears to move associated drive gears. A drive chain meshed with a fixed drive sprocket keyed to the drive gears may be used to transmit motion from the horizontal gears to the vehicle wheels.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2011Date of Patent: June 28, 2011Inventor: Nicholas F. Mirabile
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Patent number: 7938419Abstract: A standard-sized bicycle includes a main frame, a rear drive wheel and a rowing mechanism. The rowing mechanism is coupled to the main frame about a fulcrum. The fulcrum allows the rowing mechanism to oscillate forward in response to a pushing force and backward in response to a pulling force. The rowing mechanism includes a power lever and a pair of drive levers. The power lever has a handle on one end. The power lever also has a second end. The pair of drive levers extend from the second end of the power lever. Each of the pair of drive levers is in mechanical communication with the rear drive wheel such that both a forward oscillation of the rowing mechanism and a backward oscillation of the rowing mechanism drive the rear drive wheel in a same direction of rotation to propel the bicycle forward.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2008Date of Patent: May 10, 2011Inventor: Juliana Leslie
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Patent number: 7914028Abstract: An occupant propelled vehicle is provided that includes a frame having a front portion and a rear portion, front and rear wheels, a platform for the occupant, an integrated articulating steering mechanism and a drive mechanism. The steering mechanism provides the multiple function of power transmission to a drive train, maneuvering the vehicle through a 360° turning radius and reversing the direction of the vehicle, so that it can travel both forward and backward. In one embodiment, the driving mechanism includes a power transfer means having a first end connected to a drive sprocket through a chain and a second end connected to another drive sprocket through the chain both sprockets mounted on a front wheel for propulsion. The steering means transfers power through the chains that in turn rotate the sprockets and associated wheel propelling the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2008Date of Patent: March 29, 2011Inventor: Adelino Pastilha
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Patent number: 7900945Abstract: An all-terrain wheelchair including independently operable right and left push bars arranged to enable individuals of varied physical strength to move the chair along a wide range of terrains, including soft terrain. The push bars allow the user to establish mobility without hand to wheel interaction. The all-terrain wheelchair allows the user to propel the chair forward with a forward motion of the push bars while pulling back on the push bars engages a braking system. Turning is achieved with a forward motion on one push bar and a backward motion on the other push bar. The all-terrain wheelchair of the present invention offers the user a multi-speed geared advantage over traditional wheelchairs. Shifting into lower gears for snow, mud, and sand, gives the user the freedom to go where they have not been able to go with traditional wheelchairs. The push bars are removable and may be stored so that the wheelchair may be moved using conventional hand-to-wheel pushing.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2008Date of Patent: March 8, 2011Assignee: Renegade Wheelchairs, LLCInventor: John W. Rackley
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Patent number: 7896375Abstract: The present invention relates to an arm and leg powered bicycle, comprising handle levers, a front wheel, a rear wheel, a handle shaft, supporting frames, pedals, a pedal shaft, front and rear sprockets and a chain belt, wherein the bicycle further includes an operating means for vertically rotating the handle levers, said member consisting of a handle rotation shaft, an operating rod or rods and a handle rotation shaft support, and a means for transferring the rotating force of the handle levers to a pedal shaft, said means consisting of a crank shaft, a rotating shaft, a flexible joint, a driving gear and a driven gear mounted on a pedal shaft.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2005Date of Patent: March 1, 2011Inventor: Kie-Ho Cynn
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Publication number: 20100320719Abstract: The present application pertains to a wheelchair having a frame; a seat attached to the frame and supporting a user; two lateral drive wheels mounted on essentially horizontal axes; and a propulsion system including a handle, an operating lever supporting said handle and having a friction element mounted onto the operating lever. The operating lever is movable axially with respect to one axis between a first and second position and radially. The friction element is arranged and constructed to frictionally engage said drive wheel in the first position and radial movement of the propulsion system propels the chair in a predetermined direction.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 15, 2009Publication date: December 23, 2010Inventors: Ethan RAND, Robert Koffsky
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Patent number: 7837210Abstract: A drive mechanism for a lever propulsion wheelchair includes at least one clutch and at least one gear set contained within a central hub housing operatively coupled to the drive surface of the main wheel being driven. In the preferred embodiment, there are additional clutches and gear sets contained within the hub housing and coaxial to the wheel. By locating the transmission components within the hub housing and providing the coaxial arrangement, various user capabilities may be enabled without a significant increase in wheelchair width, as compared to the width of conventional pushrim propulsion wheelchairs. Transmission components are cooperatively arranged to provide capabilities that may include forward, rearward and neutral “gears,” braking, anti-rollback, and quick-release removal.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2008Date of Patent: November 23, 2010Assignee: Daedalus Wings, Inc.Inventors: Bart Kylstra, Nathan Isaiah Jauvtis, Thomas Martin Cook, Jeremy Winston Huff, Sean Kerrel
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Patent number: 7823897Abstract: A drive system for a work vehicle comprises a control unit adapted to: monitor output of a speed ratio setting input device for a speed ratio setting request signal and output of a drive-request input device for a FWD-only request signal, determine from the speed ratio setting request signal if a requested speed ratio setting represented thereby is one of at least one predetermined speed ratio setting among a plurality of speed ratio settings possible for the work vehicle upon receipt of the FWD-only request signal, and, if so, output at least one control signal engaging a FWD-only mode enabling FWD operation of the work vehicle but disabling RWD operation of the work vehicle. An associated method is disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2007Date of Patent: November 2, 2010Assignee: Deere & CompanyInventors: Andrew Wayne Kelly, Brent Allen Smith, Scott Joseph Breiner, Craig Ronald Timmerman
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Publication number: 20100264621Abstract: A mechanism for manually powering a vehicle is provided. The mechanism includes a frame and a first driver attached to the frame. The first driver rotates a driven wheel. A lever arm is pivotally attached to the frame and includes a first end having a pair of handles sized to be grasped and moved in a rowing motion by both hands of a person and a second end that rotatably attaches to a disk shaped second driver. A linkage is moved by the second driver when the person pivots the first end of the lever arm and the linkage rotates the first driver and the driven wheel. A steerable wheel and a steering member that are operated by the lever arm steer the steerable wheel. The steering member communicates moveably with a telescoping universal joint, the telescoping universal joint enabling the lever aim to be pivoted and steered.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 29, 2010Publication date: October 21, 2010Inventor: Robert Drymalski
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Patent number: 7802804Abstract: The wobble bearing axle assembly is used for engaging the upper body of a person for use in human powered vehicles and exercise equipment. The wobble bearing assembly converts linear input force derived by the operator into rotational force, which is directed toward the forward propulsion of a wheel. The wobble bearing axle assembly comprises a wobble bearing, a wobble axle, at least two engagement members a first arm and a second arm. The wobble bearing is disposed upon the oblique retainer of the wobble axle. The oblique retainer of the wobble axle is angled offset from the axis of the wobble axle Y. The engaging members are rotatably affixed with the first and second arms through pins which is longitudinally disposed through complementary orifices through the first and second arms and the engaging members respectively. In some preferred embodiments additional bearings are engaged with the pedals powered by the legs of the operator.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2008Date of Patent: September 28, 2010Inventor: John Lawson
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Patent number: 7584976Abstract: The Trike's unique power source is provided by a rowing-type motion of the user rather than the less efficient “hand rim” grip or wrist propulsion. The rowing motion significantly reduces the chances for repetitive stress injuries, like carpal tunnel. Furthermore, the rowing motion and movements, are designed to facilitate efficient propulsion and steering in combination, to be effected simultaneously. The rowing motion allows the user's full arm strength and full range of motion to assist in the powering of the vehicle. The wheelchair also has a retractable fifth or propulsion wheel that allows the chair to be used in a confined space without sacrificing performance.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2006Date of Patent: September 8, 2009Inventors: Christopher J. Bayne, Stephen Barker
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Publication number: 20080277896Abstract: The Swing Powered Scooter is to provide a transportation powered by hands instead of by feet. It has a handlebar on top of a swing pole, with a center point which is supported by an inner ring of a bearing on a board; Using pulling or pushing action drives wheels move, at same time, the handlebar steers in the forward direction. The bottom of the swing pole drives an increasing gear ratio mechanism; and by positioning an idler gear to change speeds or by 2 chains. Furthermore using a rack and a passive gear makes this invention is able to use pushing or pulling or both actions to make vehicle move forward.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 8, 2007Publication date: November 13, 2008Inventors: Rocky Jenlon Lee, Li Lin Ni
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Publication number: 20080238022Abstract: A drive mechanism for a lever propulsion wheelchair includes at least one clutch and at least one gear set contained within a central hub housing operatively coupled to the drive surface of the main wheel being driven. In the preferred embodiment, there are additional clutches and gear sets contained within the hub housing and coaxial to the wheel. By locating the transmission components within the hub housing and providing the coaxial arrangement, various user capabilities may be enabled without a significant increase in wheelchair width, as compared to the width of conventional pushrim propulsion wheelchairs. Transmission components are cooperatively arranged to provide capabilities that may include forward, rearward and neutral “gears,” braking, anti-rollback, and quick-release removal.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 28, 2008Publication date: October 2, 2008Inventors: Bart Kylstra, Nathan Isaiah Jauvtis, Thomas Martin Cook, Jeremy Winston Huff, Sean Kerrel
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Patent number: 7413206Abstract: A drive system for use with a bicycle includes first and second gears arranged so that the second gear is rotatably driven responsive to the first gear. A freewheel is operatively coupled to the second gear, and a drive sprocket is operatively coupled to the freewheel. The freewheel causes the drive sprocket to be rotatably driven only when the first gear is driven in either the first direction or the second direction. A driven sprocket may be mounted coaxially and in driving relationship with a wheel of the bicycle. A chain may be used for linking the drive sprocket and the driven sprocket. First and second levers extend from a support bar, which is coaxially mounted to the first gear. Reciprocal movement of the first and second levers causes the first gear to rotate, and correspondingly causes the second gear to rotate, thereby effecting rotation in the drive sprocket and the driven sprocket.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2005Date of Patent: August 19, 2008Inventors: Victor Medina Peña, Ricardo Medina Peña
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Patent number: 7360780Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed by means of which an operator both propels and steers a scooter, tricycle, or bicycle with a single set of handlebars. Power is applied by pumping the handlebars up and down, and steering is positive, and very similar to that of a conventional bicycle or tricycle. Drive means includes a single one-way clutch and a reciprocating endless chain or cable member which does not require a rewind spring. The total mechanism is very simple, the reciprocating components are few and light weight, and a long stroke yields a functional efficiency and top speed.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2007Date of Patent: April 22, 2008Inventor: Joe W. Tucker
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Publication number: 20080073869Abstract: The present invention provides a human powered vehicle drive system that includes a vehicle frame, a power system including a pivotable drive lever and a one-way clutch, a neutral shifting system, and a braking system. The drive lever may be coupled to a tension member that is associated with the drive lever and a drive spool, so that power is transmitted from the drive lever to the drive spool via the tension member, and from the drive spool to a driven wheel via the one-way clutch. A drive-ratio shifting control allows a user to vary a drive ratio by translating the attachment point of the tension member to the drive lever up or down the drive lever. A neutral shifting control allows the user to engage and disengage the one-way clutch. The braking system includes a flexible brake linkage routed along the drive lever. The drive-ratio shifting, neutral shifting, and braking controls may all be situated proximate to a drive lever handle adjustably coupled to the drive lever.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 26, 2007Publication date: March 27, 2008Inventor: Sam Harwell Patterson