Abstract: A bicycle having a frame with a saddle, and rear and front wheels. A large gear is rotated integrally with the rear wheel and is concentric with an axle thereof and includes a diameter smaller than the rear wheel. A small gear circumscribes the large gear above the rear wheel axle, a small gear supporting bracket swings about the rear wheel axle and rotatably supports the small gear. A load receiving surface, a load transmission unit movably supported to the frame and movable longitudinally on the load receiving surface are provided. A first sprocket is concentric with the small gear, a second sprocket is rotatably provided rear of the first sprocket and lower than the rotation center thereof, a chain is wound between the first and second sprockets, and a first rachet which mounted on the small gear restricts rearward rotation of the rear wheel via the large gear.

Abstract: A pump-action mobility and exercise device may include a pumping arm attached to a foot slide. As the pumping arm is actuated, the foot slide moves forward and rearward in response to the pumping action. The foot slide can also be moved by a user's foot movement. The foot slide may be connected to a drive mechanism that selectively engages a chain or belt that loops around a drive wheel arranged on an axle of the vehicle. When the drive mechanism catches and moves the belt or chain in a forward direction, the axle rotates in a forward direction to drive the vehicle forward. A reverse mechanism may also be provided that selectively causes the drive mechanism to catch and drive the belt or chain in an opposite direction.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A hand propelled vehicle comprising a frame (13), a member (15) controlling the propulsion, associated with the frame (13) and arranged to oscillate relative to the frame due to the pushing action exerted by the arms of a vehicle driver, an assembly (17), controlled by said control member (15), for converting the reciprocating motion into a circular motion, and a transmission assembly (19) for transmitting the motion from a drive shaft (21) associated with said converting assembly to a driven shaft (23) associated with a propelling member, wherein said transmission assembly (19) includes at least one transmission shaft (25), perpendicular to the drive shaft (21) and the driven shaft (23) and kinematically connected to the drive shaft (21) and the driven shaft (23) through respective gears (27, 29).

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A drive system (3) for a human powered vehicle. The drive system (3) includes at least one input member (31), a transmission system (21) arranged to convert movement of the input member (31) to rotation of an output member (83), and a lock mechanism (123) including at least one drive member (133) for selectively locking a drive wheel (11, 13) to rotation of the output member (83) for rotation therewith. The drive member (133) is arranged for movement from a first operational position in which the drive wheel (11, 13) is not locked to the output member (83) to a second operational position in which the drive wheel (11, 13) is locked to the output member (83), and back to the first operational position, under the control of a user of the vehicle. The drive system (3) allows the user to choose between propelling the vehicle using the drive system (3) or disengaging the drive system (3) from the drive wheel (11, 13) and propelling the vehicle by some other means, for example by wheel rims.

Abstract: A manual propulsion mechanism for wheelchairs utilizes a lever pivotally mounted to the hub of each rear wheel such that the wheelchair user can propel the chair with push/pull movements of the levers. Forward and reverse propulsion directions are accomplished by a system of one-way reversible clutches contained in the propulsion wheel hubs which also allow the levers to be operationally disconnected such that the chair can freewheel. Operator control of direction shifting is through pivoting motions imparted to the grip handles of the propulsion levers. In a preferred embodiment, improved ergonomics for propulsion direction changes are made possible by coordinating the direction of the shift pivot motion with the push/pull movement of the levers. This allows the operator to retain a comfortable, stable grip on the grip handle while simultaneously propelling and controlling direction of movement.

Abstract: A hand-operated assembly that supplies secondary drive power and steering control to a secondary drive wheel of a wheel chair. The assembly comprises a handle that is controlled with one hand and a linkage rod that extends from the handle to an eccentric arm fitted to a one-way clutch assembly at a secondary drive wheel support axle. Reciprocating up-down, pivoting movements of the handle over a range Y? in the Y axis directs a linkage rod to rotate an eccentric arm fitted to a one-way clutch and a drive axle of a small diameter, secondary drive wheel. Independent 360° rotation of the handle about a second, horizontal or Z axis steers the secondary drive wheel. A portion Y? of the range of handle motion directs a flange at the linkage arm to engage a brake piece that contacts the secondary drive wheel. Large diameter, hand driven, primary drive wheels are separately available to the user for effecting normal chair conveyance.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A mobility device for use by the elderly or disabled persons, that does not require standing, balancing or walking and is propelled by leg paddling of a user, is disclosed. The mobility device comprises a pair of base members, an inverted U-shaped member disposed between the base members, front legs extending downwardly at 45 degrees with respect to the base members with swiveling wheels, a front cross bar disposed between the front legs, such that the front cross bar and the front legs define an opening receiving a user's legs while paddling. Also provided are rear legs with fixed wheels, handles extending outwardly at 70 degrees with respect to the base members, brakes engaging rear wheels, the brakes actuated by levers disposed on the handles, a seat, a back rest and arm rests.

Abstract: The improved wheelchair employs the use of two push levers attached to two forward drive gears, and two reverse drive gears, which propel the two main rear wheels of the chair through bicycle chains connecting the front drive gears to sprocket clusters mounted on the rear wheel axles. Direction control mechanisms allow the user to engage either forward or reverse drive gears, or disengage both, thereby producing forward, neutral, and reverse motion. Derailers are mounted behind each rear axle and are activated by shifter mechanisms mounted on the push levers. Disc brakes are mounted on the frame beside each wheel and activated by hand brake levers mounted on the push levers.

Abstract: A portable robotic system having a folding carriage is disclosed. The carriage in one embodiment includes two legs and a lateral stabilizer. The folding legs and stabilizer allow the carriage to be maneuvered into a plurality of open and closed positions. In the open positions, the legs and stabilizer are spaced apart to support the robotic system during operation. In the closed positions, the legs and stabilizer and substantially parallel to one another. In one closed position with one leg or stabilizer extended to within reach of a person, the carriage may be rolled like a dolly. In another closed position with one leg or stabilizer collapsed against the carriage, the carriage may be carried like a suitcase. Methods of folding and transporting a robotic system and carriage are also disclosed.

Abstract: A hand cart for lifting and transporting containers that have hand grip apertures or handles in their sides or ends, or have an inverted U-shaped rim surrounding an open top end. The cart has a base with wheels rotatably mounted at respective laterally opposed ends thereof. An elongate telescoping handle secured to the base extends vertically upward therefrom and has a handgrip mounted on the top end thereof. A J-shaped hook mounted on the handle is adjustably positioned along the length of the handle and releasably connected thereto at selected heights relative to a floor surface and has an outer facing upturned portion. The handle is pivoted forwardly and then rearwardly to releasably engage the hook with the hand grip aperture, handle or rim on a proximal side or end of the container and pivoted further rearwardly to engage the base with a lower portion of the proximal side or end of the container to raise the container off of the floor surface and transport it to a desired location.

Abstract: A manual wheelchair system comprising of a pair of lever arms positioned on each side of the chair that actuate a propulsion system located entirely under the seat of the wheelchair. Both the push and pull stroke of the levers, unlimited by stroke angle, provides unidirectional forward propulsion to the rear wheels of the chair. This is accomplished through drive gears fitted with one-way clutches and idler gears intermeshing with them. A sprocket is attached to one drive gear, and connects to an internal shifting hub using a chain or belt. This hub could optionally be a manual or automatic unit, with the automatic shifting unit relying on sensory feedback from the rear drive wheel to determine the most efficient ratio of operation. The hub connects to the rear drive axle through another sprocket and chain combination and drives the rear wheel as the levers are manipulated. The rear axle has a disconnecting clutch so that the entire drive propulsion system can disengaged from the chair.

Abstract: A mini scooter includes a wheel member, a wheel support member, a steering rod, a steering rod support, a wheel cover plate, and a pedal. The wheel member includes a wheel with a transmission ring in the center, and a unidirectional rotary bearing, a pivot shaft of which serves as a wheel axle. Two ends of the wheel axle are respectively provided with cover plates. The cover plates are connected to the transmission ring. The wheel support member includes a wheel support with a top portion having a through hole and having an inverted U-shaped cross section. Securing bolts extend through through holes in the wheel support and engage with nuts. Two ends of the bearing pivot shaft are provided with axle bearings. Two sides of the wheel support respectively form circular holes for receiving the axle bearings. The wheel cover plate is disposed on and secured to the securing bolts in the through holes in the wheel support. The wheel cover plate has a top portion provided with front and rear stop blocks.

Abstract: A manual wheelchair system comprising of a pair of lever arms positioned on each side of the chair that actuate a propulsion system located entirely under the seat of the wheelchair. Both the push and pull stroke of the levers, unlimited by stroke angle, provides unidirectional forward propulsion to the rear wheels of the chair. This is accomplished through drive gears fitted with one-way clutches and idler gears intermeshing with them. A sprocket is attached to one drive gear, and connects to an internal shifting hub using a chain or belt. This hub could optionally be a manual or automatic unit, with the automatic shifting unit relying on sensory feedback from the rear drive wheel to determine the most efficient ratio of operation. The hub connects to the rear drive axle through another sprocket and chain combination and drives the rear wheel as the levers are manipulated. The rear axle has a disconnecting clutch so that the entire drive propulsion system can disengaged from the chair.

Abstract: A three-wheeled occupant propelled vehicle is described. A seat is centrally suspended on a longitudinal axis, so that by leaning from side to side, the occupant may impart a steering motion by way of linkages between the seat and the steered front wheels. Said longitudinal axis is disposed vertically above the center of mass of the body of the occupant, so that, by the force of gravity, the occupant tends to stay in a vertical position unless a leaning motion is imparted, and straight line directional control is thus maintained. Motive power is provided by hand-actuated reciprocating levers coupled by a linking means to a driven rear wheel. Power is applied in both the fore and aft strokes of said levers. One embodiment of the present invention includes a variable ratio drive.

Abstract: The hand and foot powered bicycle has an elongated frame supported by a front and rear wheel. A handle bar lever is mounted to the frame adjacent to the steering column such that the handle bar lever may be raised and lowered by moving the attached handle bar up and forward and down and rearward. The handle bar lever is connected to a front sprocket wheel by lever arm linkage attached to sprocket wheel crank arms. This front sprocket wheel is linked to the rear wheel gears by two chain loops and a mid sprocket wheel assembly. With this linkage, as the handle bar is raised and lowered, this motion is translated to rotate the rear wheels. The hand and foot powered bicycle is steered by the handle bar connected to the front wheel forks through a pair of steering cables which are crossed between their abutments to give a correct turn for a turn of the handle bar.

Abstract: A manual two-speed wheelchair having a chair, frame, fixed wheel axles, and wheel assemblies. The wheelchair is capable of driving in a direct (1:1) power mode and a lower gear mode without shifting. A separate secondary input assembly provides for reduced gearing, one secondary input rim assembly per wheel assembly. The secondary input assembly includes a toothed driver gear, a toothed driven gear, and toothed belt. The driver gear and driven gear are offset from each other. This is accomplished by an offset arm. The secondary input assembly drives the driver gear, which, in turn, drives the belt, which, in turn, drives the driver gear, which is fixedly attached to the wheelchair wheel assembly.

Abstract: A fencing sports wheelchair includes a seat (1) mounted to a base (2). A pedestal (3) underlying the base such that the base is selectively rotatable. A platform (10) having an upper surface to which the pedestal is affixed and having a lower surface. At least three wheels are mounted to the platform so that the wheels extend beneath the lower surface of the platform. In addition to a lever means for converting single-handed manual motion into forward and backward translation of said platform.

Abstract: A vehicle has two steerable front wheels and two rear wheels that are driven by fore and aft motion of a handlebar atop a pivotted column assembly. Rotation of the handlebar steers the front wheels through a closed loop pretensioned push pull wire cable. The steering and propulsion actions are independent of one another. The column assembly translatory motion is converted to rotary motion of a sprocket by a crank mechanism. The sprocket drives a chain and derailer mechanism connected to the rear axle through an overrunning clutch for coasting forward free of the column assembly. An adjustable friction drag interposed between the rear axle and the chain drive provides enough yieldable connection between the column assembly and the rear wheels to overcome problems associated with dead center of the crank mechanism.

Abstract: An improved self-propelled wagon of the type having a body including front and rear ends, a front axle pivotally mounted to the front end, a rear axle mounted to the rear end, and a propelling means for transmitting the human force of the user to the rear axle. The improvement comprises a sliding gear assembly that includes a hollow tube having proximal and distal ends, a small spur sprocket freely rotably mounted at the proximal end of the hollow tube and a large spur sprocket means freely rotably mounted at said distal end of the hollow tube. The rotation of the sprockets driving corresponding chains trained thereon and causing the rotation of the rear axle. The sliding gear assembly is adapted such that a user may adjust the sliding gear assembly to selectively intermesh with, and turn, the small spur sprocket or the large spur sprocket. The improvement also comprises a steering assembly having a tube, horizontal rod, vertical rod, a fork and rod.

Abstract: The rider powered vehicle has two steerable front wheels, each with a turning arm, and a single rear drive wheel. Power transmission means is provided between the rear wheel and a single push-pull and steerable handlebar mounted in a column assembly supported to oscillate about a lateral pivot axis. The handlebar is connected to a steering arm, and two steering links are connected at respective inboard and outboard pivotal connections between the steering arm and the two turning arms. Handlebar rotation causes the inboard pivotal connections to trace an arcuate path, and the lateral pivot axis is located to intersect the arcuate path generally at two spaced locations. This geometry provides a propulsion and steering mechanism that has substantially no interaction between the push-pull power strokes of the handlebar, for vehicular propulsion, and the handlebar rotation, for vehicular steering.

Abstract: The invention concerns a sporting and exercise apparatus movable by muscular force including a frame having for the user an elongated platform supported by at least two wheels and a mechanical hand lever-drive for converting a lever motion into a rotary motion of at least one of the wheels. The lever drive has at least one hand lever hinged on the frame and having a toothed segment interconnecting a first and a second rotatable shaft each having a first and a second gear in which each first gear is supported on the shaft by free wheel units and in which a drive pinion is fixedly connected to the second shaft so that either forward or rearward movement of the hand lever will actuate one of the first gears and impart drive torque in the direction of movement of the apparatus while the other first gears torque is limited due to the action of the corresponding free wheel unit.

Abstract: A driving assembly includes a viscous shear coupling (15), a clutch (17) and a hysteresis or eddy current brake (19). The clutch comprises inner and outer parts (20 and 21) between which are received torque-transmitting balls (18) received in a cage (16) to which is connected a disc (30) forming part of the brake. The outer part (21) can overrun the inner part whether or not the brake is actuated. The inner part (20) can overrun the outer part (21) if the brake (19) is not actuated but drives the outer part (21) if the brake is actuated. The outer part (21) is connected to one part of the viscous shear coupling (15). A drive member (34) is connected to the inner clutch part (20) and a driven member (38) forms the other part of the viscous shear coupling.

Abstract: A viscous shear coupling, comprising a first part in the form of a housing (2), a second part (3) disposed within the housing to define an annular closure therebetween, a first set of annular plates (11) in the enclosure secured for rotation with the first coupling part interleaved with the plates (12) of a second set of plates, secured for rotation with the second coupling part (3) and a viscous liquid at least partially filling the enclosure, wherein the plates are provided with through slots (13, 14) which are arranged so that parts of the slots move into and out of area of axial alignment as the sets of plates rotate relative to one another.

Abstract: A power transmission for a four-wheel drive vehicle includes a change-speed gearing mounted within a transmission casing, and an intermediate differential unit assembled within the transmission casing and drivingly connected to an output shaft of the change-speed gearing to be applied with a driving torque through the change-speed gearing for transmitting the driving torque to a first drive shaft for front-wheel drive and to a second drive shaft for rear-wheel drive. The differential unit comprises an input member drivingly connected to the output shaft of the change-speed gearing, a plurality of planetary gear sets coaxially arranged within the transmission casing and drivingly connected to the input member, the planetary gear sets being designed to provide a plurality of drive power trains at a different gear ratio, and a shift mechanism arranged to selectively connect one of the planetary gear sets to the first and second drive shafts.

Abstract: A drive mechanism for bicycles and other devices, comprising a rotary crank shaft having radial crank arms, oscillatory guides or ways spaced from the axis of the crank shaft, crossheads shiftable in the guides, and connecting rods connected between respective crossheads and crank arms, so that crosshead movement is transmitted to the crank shaft, which may power a vehicle or other device.