Belt Or Chain Patents (Class 280/250)
  • Patent number: 12208857
    Abstract: Hand pedals for turning the crank set of an arm driven tricycle have modular interchangeable components including a bearing which mounts on the spindle of the crank. A bridge connects the bearing to a handle. The bridge has two legs connected by a transverse spar. Different bridges and handles may be used having different sizes, shapes, lengths and angular orientations which allow the hand pedals to be customized to accommodate a particular user. Hand pedals may also be used on hand cranked bicycles, stationary hand cranked bicycles and industrial equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2025
    Assignees: United States Government as represented by the Department of Veterans Affairs, University of Pittsburgh—Of the Commonwealth System of Higher Education
    Inventors: Rory A. Cooper, Benjamin Gebrosky
  • Patent number: 12005007
    Abstract: A wheelchair that prevents the secondary transmission of germs, including a seat, a drive mechanism, antibacterial fabric, and a dirt-retaining board. The drive mechanism is symmetrically provided about the seat. The drive mechanism includes a frame, front wheels, rear wheels, and drive wheels. The frame is fixedly connected to the seat. The front wheels, the rear wheels, and the drive wheels are all rotated and set on the frame. The drive wheels are not coaxial with the front wheels and rear wheels and do not interfere with each other. Drive wheels are connected to the rear wheels by transmission. The dirt-retaining boards are installed on the rear wheels in coordination. The active wheels, the seat, the armrests, and the push handles are sleeved thereon with antimicrobial fabric.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2023
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2024
    Assignee: Sichuan AST Medical Equipment Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Yunshun Li, Mingqiu Du, Jinhai Yang
  • Patent number: 11986427
    Abstract: Disclosed is a multifunctional exercise chair for body stretching, comprising a wheelchair frame body, wherein a mounting frame is detachably mounted on an end of the wheelchair frame body away from the driving rear wheel and located under the seat cushion, a pedal gear is rotatably mounted at a bottom of the mounting frame and a pedal is provided thereon, a hand crank gear is rotatably mounted on a top of the mounting frame and a hand crank handle is provided thereon, a rotating shaft is provided between two driving rear wheels; a driven gear is fixedly mounted on the rotating shaft, a supporting chain gear is mounted on the mounting frame and arranged adjacent to the pedal gear, and the hand crank gear, the pedal gear, the driven gear and the supporting chain gear are wound and connected by a transmission chain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2024
    Inventor: Baoye Guo
  • Patent number: 11793693
    Abstract: Provided is a steering mechanism (8) including a swing bar (81a) which swings in response to input from a rider, a cam guide (83c) slidable on a peripheral surface of a column section (5a), a ball joint (82a) which slides the cam guide (83c) in response to the swinging of the swing bar (81a), a cam follower (83b) vertically provided on the peripheral surface of the column section (5a) to rotate the column section (5a) in response to the sliding of the cam guide (83c), and a coil spring (83e) which returns the cam guide (83c) to a predetermined rotation angle. The cam follower (83b) comes in contact with a cam surface (83c4) of the cam guide (83c) which has a recess surface shape, at two positions on the peripheral surface, in a state where the column section (5a) is located at a predetermined position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2023
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Junji Takado, Hiroshi Gomi, Yasushi Yoneda
  • Patent number: 11254181
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a forecarriage of a rolling motor vehicle with three or four wheels, comprising: a forecarriage frame (16); at least one pair of front wheels (10?, 10?) kinematically connected to each other and to the forecarriage frame by a kinematic roll mechanism (20) which enables the same to roll in a synchronous and specular manner; a roll control system (100) comprising a rod (110) having a first (111) and a second end (112) opposite each other which connect by means of hinging means (101?, 101?; 102?, 102?) a first (60) and a second anchoring portion (60) of forecarriage (8) directly to each other. At least one of said first and second anchoring portions is subject to roll movements of said two front wheels. The hinging means are configured to passively follow the movements of the two anchoring portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2022
    Assignee: PIAGGIO & C. S.P.A
    Inventor: Andrea Raffaelli
  • Patent number: 10076456
    Abstract: A mobile chair apparatus is described that comprises a drive assembly that preferably includes one or more moveable foot pedals, and drive wheels which rotate in response to rotation of the foot pedals by the mobile chair occupant, and a steering assembly which comprises two steering wheels and at least one tiller, configured such that forward and backward movement of said tiller will translate into movement of both steering wheels, wherein the drive assembly and the steering assembly concurrently enable the mobile chair occupant to propel and steer the mobile chair apparatus without assistance from another person.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Assignee: VELOCHAIR GROUP LLC
    Inventor: Kenneth A. Simons
  • Patent number: 9980863
    Abstract: A manual wheelchair including a collapsible frame having a first lateral member that is connected to first and second braces at their respective first ends. A drive wheel axle extends along a first axis of rotation and engages a drive wheel, the first brace, and a portion of a transmission. A push rim axle extends along a second axis of rotation and engages a push rim wheel, the second brace, and a portion of the transmission, which transmits rotation of the push rim to rotation of the drive wheel. The collapsible frame additionally includes a second lateral member that is connected to the first and second braces as their respective second ends. The first and second braces are configured to release the second lateral member to collapse the manual wheelchair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2018
    Assignee: THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AS REPRESENTED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS
    Inventors: Andrew H. Hansen, Gary D. Goldish, Eric Nickel
  • Patent number: 9872805
    Abstract: The invention relates to an auxiliary mobility system for a wheelchair, comprising a frame, at least one wheel-bearing part and at least one steering element or handlebar, said bearing part being connected to the frame such that it can rotate concentrically about its axial axis under the action of the steering element. The system also comprises means for rotating the bearing part concentrically in relation to an axis substantially parallel to the rotation axis of the wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2018
    Assignee: Batec Mobility, S.L.
    Inventor: Pablo Alejandro Bach Castillo
  • Patent number: 9795522
    Abstract: A manual wheelchair including a collapsible frame having a first lateral member that is connected to first and second braces at their respective first ends. A drive wheel axel extends along a first axis of rotation and engages a drive wheel, the first brace, and a portion of a transmission. A push rim axel extends along a second axis of rotation and engages a push rim wheel, the second brace, and a portion of the transmission, which transmits rotation of the push rim to rotation of the drive wheel. The collapsible frame additionally includes a second lateral member that is connected to the first and second braces as their respective second ends. The first and second braces are configured to release the second lateral member to collapse the manual wheelchair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2017
    Assignee: THE DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS
    Inventors: Andrew H. Hansen, Gary D. Goldish, Eric Nickel
  • Patent number: 9757288
    Abstract: An apparatus comprising a steering assembly, a drive assembly and a seat, the steering assembly comprises a first armrest connected to a first link arm, and a second armrest connected to a second link arm; a first tie rod connected to the first link arm and a second tie rod connected to the second link arm; a first steering block connected to the first tie rod and a second steering block connected to the second tie rod; a third tie rod interconnecting the first and second steering blocks; and a first and second steering wheel, and/or the drive assembly comprises a first and second drive wheel connected to an axle; a support shaft; foot pedals connected to a crank; a first chain connecting the crank to a gear hub; and a second chain connecting the gear hub to the axles or connecting components of the gear hub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2017
    Inventor: Kenneth Simons
  • Patent number: 9757289
    Abstract: A mobile chair apparatus is described that comprises a drive assembly that preferably includes one or more moveable foot pedals, and drive wheels which rotate in response to rotation of the foot pedals by the mobile chair occupant, and a steering assembly which comprises two steering wheels and two armrests, wherein movement of just one armrest will translate into movement of both steering wheels, and wherein the drive assembly and the steering assembly concurrently enable the mobile chair occupant to propel and steer the mobile chair apparatus without assistance from another person.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2017
    Inventor: Kenneth A. Simons
  • Patent number: 9737448
    Abstract: A wheelchair apparatus is provided for raising and lowering a user of the wheelchair, while allowing the user to manually move the wheelchair at any height.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Inventor: Jerome C. Farmer
  • Patent number: 9387139
    Abstract: A dual drive wheelchair comprising a frame with a seat, a rear driving wheel set including a cross axle and a vertical rod, wherein the cross axle connects two rear wheels, a supporting structure including a support and an axial tube, wherein the support is connected to the frame and a front driving wheel set; and the axial tube fits around the vertical rod, and further comprising a first steering member of the first turning structure connected to the support and a second steering member of the first turning structure; wherein the second steering member is fixed to the vertical rod and a control structure including a pair of backrest canes fixed to the first steering member enabling a user or a caregiver to operate the control structure of the dual drive wheelchair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: Optimal Medical Co., LTD.
    Inventor: Jeng-Pang Chang
  • Patent number: 9073600
    Abstract: An independent shaft driven front wheel drive transmission (20) powers the front wheel of a velocipede by rotating a pair of coextensive handles (23 L R). Standard foot pedals power a rear shaft drive assembly (17) or a standard chain drive (FIG. 9). Forward rotation of the handles sets in motion the shaft driver assembly (10). The drive shaft (35) rotates and transfers energy to the multi-geared front hub assembly (14) that drives the front wheel forward. Triple tree brackets (73), position and support the front forks and steer tube. The steer tube (24) in combination with the triple tree brackets attaches the front wheel shaft drive system to the head tube of the velocipede. The modified front fork tube (53 R) houses the drive shaft (35) and bearings, (56 a b). The fork tube also has an attached modified drop out (77) that has clearance for rotatable bottom gear (51).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2015
    Inventor: Kenneth Dalton Haan
  • Publication number: 20150084307
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a novel approach to improving the use of wheelchairs by offering the ability for the wheelchair to transition between accommodation for a seated position, and accommodation for a standing position, more particularly, wherein the inventive mobile manual standing wheelchair allows for a standing position during the course of mobile use, and which also permits the user to traverse narrow entrances and doorframes, and also allows the user to have improved access in front for elevated surfaces such as countertops and the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 24, 2014
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Inventors: Gary D. Goldish, Andrew Hansen, Eric A. Nickel
  • Publication number: 20150028558
    Abstract: A wheelchair bowling kit and bowling wheelchair are described. Embodiments of the wheelchair bowling kit can be implemented to allow a handicapped bowler to bowl more conventionally. Generally, the wheelchair bowling kit can include a drive mechanism and a locking mechanism. The drive mechanism can be implemented to propel a wheelchair forward using only one hand while the other hand is free to hold a bowling ball. The locking mechanism can be included to keep a castor of the wheelchair from rotating, resulting in the wheelchair moving in a substantially straight line. The bowling wheelchair can include components similar to the drive mechanism and locking mechanism that are manufactured as part of the bowling wheelchair.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2014
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Inventors: Richard Shane Hartman, Jack Samuel Horox
  • Publication number: 20140265211
    Abstract: A manual wheelchair including a frame, a drive wheel connected to the frame, having a first axis of rotation and configured to rotate relative to the frame, a push rim connected to the frame, having a second axis of rotation extending substantially parallel to the first axis of rotation of the drive wheel and configured to rotate relative to the frame, wherein the second axis of rotation of the push rim is offset from the first axis of rotation of the drive wheel in a direction orthogonal to the first axis of rotation of the drive wheel, and a transmission configured to transmit rotation of the push rim to rotation of the drive wheel. Additionally, the wheelchair may also include multispeed fixed-gear hubs for propulsion on different terrain and removable or rotatable push rims for easier transfers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Department of Veterans Affairs, Technology Transfer Program
    Inventor: Department of Veterans Affairs, Technology Transfer Program
  • Patent number: 8807584
    Abstract: A stabilizing device for a handcycle has an axle including an inner shaft and an outer shaft. A first stabilizing component is coupled to the inner shaft. A second stabilizing component is coupled to the outer shaft in proximity to the first stabilizing component. A locking component is configured to engage the first and second stabilizing components to reversibly reduce rotation of the inner shaft with respect to the outer shaft. Alternatively, a stabilizing device for a handcycle has a frame including first and second stabilizing members affixed to the frame. A locking member is configured to engage the first and second stabilizing members to stabilize the frame. The stabilizing components or members include receptacles, teeth, or a friction component. The locking component or member includes a pin or knob configured to adjust the first or second stabilizing member into a locked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Lasher Sport, LLC.
    Inventor: William J. Lasher, III
  • Patent number: 8777249
    Abstract: A wheelchair assembly for propelling a wheelchair is provided. The wheelchair has front wheels and rear wheels and a pair of armrests. The wheelchair assembly comprises a first gear wheel secured to each rear wheel and a second gear wheel secured to each armrest. The second gear wheel is positioned directly over the first gear wheel with the second gear wheel being completely encased by a cover. A chain is secured over and between the first and second gear wheels and extends from an opening in the cover. Rotatable handles are attached to each armrest with each having a grasping portion extending Upward. A control linkage extends between the handles and the second gear wheels and mounted to and under the armrest such that rotation of the handles also rotates the second gear wheels with the control linkage being perpendicular to the line formed between the first and second gear wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Inventors: David Roman, Eric James
  • Patent number: 8602138
    Abstract: A wheelchair attachment for powering a wheelchair is described. An attachment for a conventional wheelchair converts a non-motorized wheelchair into a motorized wheelchair. The attachment may also act as an anti-tipping device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Inventors: Paul Filkoski, Alan Warren
  • Patent number: 8471722
    Abstract: A direction indicator system includes: an electromagnetic drive actuator that has a moving part that can slide back and forth, side to side, and diagonally; and a drive controlling unit that controls the sliding direction of the moving part, based on direction indicating information that is supplied from the outside.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Fujitsu Component Limited
    Inventors: Masahiro Kaneko, Satoshi Sakurai, Nobuo Yatsu, Takuya Uchiyama, Yuriko Segawa
  • Publication number: 20130113178
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a novel approach to improving the use of wheelchairs by offering the ability for the wheelchair to transition between accommodation for a seated position, and accommodation for a standing position, more particularly, wherein the inventive mobile manual standing wheelchair allows for a standing position during the course of mobile use, and which also permits fixed gearing of multiple speeds that also accommodates forwards and backwards motion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: The United State Government, as Represented by the Department of Veterans Affairs
    Inventor: The United State Government, as Represented by
  • Patent number: 8388004
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Inventor: Edward Walter
  • Publication number: 20120235377
    Abstract: A drive mechanism for a handcycle has a master drive sprocket rotatably mounted on a frame adjacent a front wheel of the handcycle, and positioned away from a driver seating area. The drive mechanism further includes a drive chain operably connected to the master drive sprocket and adapted to operably engage the front wheel. An elongate extension element extends from the frame adjacent the front wheel towards the driver seating area. A pair of hand cranks are rotatably connected to a pivot element of the elongate extension element, each of the pair of hand cranks terminating in a hand grip. A transmission operably connects the pair of hand cranks with the master drive sprocket, such that rotation of the pair of hand cranks turns the master drive sprocket for driving the front wheel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2011
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Inventors: David Bailey, Kirk Hoepnner
  • Patent number: 7900945
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Renegade Wheelchairs, LLC
    Inventor: John W. Rackley
  • Publication number: 20100276905
    Abstract: A drive system (3) for a human powered vehicle 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 is arranged for movement from a first operational position in which the drive wheel is not locked to the output member to a second operational position in which the drive wheel is locked to the output member, and back to the first operational position, under the control of a user of the vehicle. The drive system allows the user to choose between propelling the vehicle using the drive system or disengaging the drive system from the drive wheel and propelling the vehicle by some other means, for example by wheel rims.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2010
    Publication date: November 4, 2010
    Inventor: Andrew Ramon Brown
  • Patent number: 7722071
    Abstract: The present invention encompasses several improvements to handcycles. This invention introduces a blend between lean steer and pivot steer. The front wheel may be turned with only minimal twisting of the operator's legs. This invention uses two bearings and quick release axle to connect the front and rear frame together and provide the steering axis. This invention incorporates a means for adjusting the bike from fully reclined to a body forward position. The invention also incorporates a means of crank adjustment. In the embodiment of our new design the cable and housing are attached to the brake and shift levers by means of an intermediate device for the purpose of directing the shift and brake cable away from the rider's field of view.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Inventors: Michael Shane Lofgren, Brian Charles Stewart
  • Publication number: 20090058034
    Abstract: A standard-sized bicycle includes a main frame, a 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 extends from the second end of the power lever. Each of said pair of drive levers is in mechanical communication with the drive wheel such that both a forward oscillation of the rowing mechanism and a backward oscillation of the rowing mechanism drive the drive wheel in the same direction of rotation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2008
    Publication date: March 5, 2009
    Inventor: Juliana Leslie
  • Patent number: 7464951
    Abstract: A powered vehicle and method of operating is described for on and off-road use. The powered vehicle comprises a chassis and a first and second axle coupled to the chassis having at least one wheel coupled to the first axle and at least two wheels coupled to the second axle. The powered vehicle further comprises a movable seat configured to support a rider sitting down on the seat, and configured to move relative to the chassis in order to provide a steering mechanism for the powered vehicle. For example, the movable seat provides a mechanism for the rider to shift his or her weight relative to the chassis to cause the steering mechanism for the powered vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2008
    Inventor: Stephen R. Coray
  • Patent number: 7413206
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2008
    Inventors: Victor Medina Peña, Ricardo Medina Peña
  • Patent number: 7341267
    Abstract: A reversible ratchet mechanism includes a pair of roller clutches set to operate in opposite directions when engaged by a belt. During the forward motion of the ratchet assembly in either direction of propulsion of the belt, one roller clutch is disengaged while the other is engaged and locked, thereby propelling the belt. During the backward stroke, the engaged roller clutch is free to rotate. The result is that the reciprocating motion of the assembly is converted into the linear motion of the belt. The ratchet assembly includes a shift mechanism to reverse the engagement of the roller clutches and change the direction of propulsion of the belt produced by the push/pull action of the operator. The invention is advantageously used in conjunction with a wheelchair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2008
    Inventor: David H. Vroom
  • Patent number: 6916032
    Abstract: The invention provides a propulsion, braking and anti-rollback control assembly for use in manually propelled vehicles such as wheelchairs. In one embodiment, the invention provides a wheelchair with a control lever assembly and related force conveyance connecter that propel, brake and steer the wheelchair in a mechanically advantageous way while minimizing rollback. A seat-activated auxiliary braking system is also provided. Additionally, the invention provides a selective anti-rollback disengagement system that facilitates selective rollback.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2005
    Assignee: J.T. Labs, Ltd.
    Inventor: Sui-Kay Wong
  • Patent number: 6910701
    Abstract: A wheelchair propulsion system provides a wheelchair user with a continuous input drive path of linear or elliptical shape. The propulsion system includes a Cardan gear system defining a linear reciprocating or elliptical input path over which propulsive force may be continuously applied to the wheelchair wheels. Because the input path is continuous, efficiency is increased and impact on the user's body is reduced thereby reducing discomfort and physical demands on the user's body. The angle of the input path may be altered to suit the particular needs of a user by rearrangement of the relative angular orientations of the gears in the propulsive system. The present propulsive mechanism may be integrated into a wheelchair or retrofitted to existing wheelchairs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2005
    Inventors: Thomas Long, Wayne Scott, Alfred Stiller
  • Patent number: 6669222
    Abstract: A foldable unicycle attachable to a wheelchair to form a hand driven tricycle. The unicycle has upper and lower drive train frames. The means for attaching the unicycle to a wheelchair includes a positioning stand that holds the unicycle and its attachment means in a position adapted to receive and engage hitch means attached to the wheelchair frame. The positioning stand of the unicycle and the front castor wheels of the wheelchair are lifted off the ground during engagement of the unicycle attachment means to the hitch means of the wheelchair. The upper drive train frame includes means to allow it to be folded downwardly into a position adjacent the outer face of the lower drive train frame, and the unicycle attachment means includes means to allow it to be folded downwardly into a position adjacent the inner face of the lower drive train frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Inventors: John M. Barrett, N. Hanz Scholz
  • Patent number: 6557879
    Abstract: This is a hand-propelled wheeled device for a rider. The device includes: a frame with two sides; a first and second drive wheel rotatably mounted to the two sides; a first hand crank connected to the first drive wheel through a first crank hub, and a first wheel hub that is connected to and rotates the first drive wheel; a second hand crank connected to the second drive wheel through a second crank hub, and a second ratcheting hub that is connected to and rotates the second drive wheel; at least one shifting mechanism to change a leveraging ratio between the first hand crank and the first drive wheel and between the second hand crank and the second drive wheel; a pivoting backrest connected to the frame, wherein the pivoting backrest provides continuous back support to the rider; an adjustable hammock seat connected to the frame; a third support connected to the frame; and a braking mechanism to retard movement of the first and second drive wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Inventor: John R. Caldwell
  • Patent number: 6409195
    Abstract: A sport type wheelchair. The wheelchair has two rear wheels and a front wheel. A handcrank and a sprocket and chain mechanism provide rear wheel axle chain drive. The steering is front wheel steering, operated with a steering handle attached to the front wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2002
    Inventor: Robert Joss Adams
  • Publication number: 20020030342
    Abstract: A handcycle, comprising an articulated frame comprising a front frame portion and a rear frame portion pivotably joined and configured so that the handcycle is steerable by pivoting of the front and rear portions relative to each other and a restoring force element operatively coupled to and between the front and rear portions and configured to bias said front and rear portions of the frame to a neutral relative position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2001
    Publication date: March 14, 2002
    Inventors: Christopher Rotz, Scott Nielson, Christopher Musso, Michael Horito
  • Patent number: 6276703
    Abstract: This is a hand-propelled wheeled device for a rider. The device includes: a frame with two sides; a first and second drive wheel rotatably mounted to the two sides; a first hand crank connected to the first drive wheel through a first crank hub, and a first wheel hub that is connected to and rotates the first drive wheel; a second hand crank connected to the second drive wheel through a second crank hub, and a second ratcheting hub that is connected to and rotates the second drive wheel; at least one shifting mechanism to change a leveraging ratio between the first hand crank and the first drive wheel and between the second hand crank and the second drive wheel; a pivoting backrest connected to the frame, wherein the pivoting backrest provides continuous back support to the rider; an adjustable hammock seat connected to the frame; a third support connected to the frame; and a braking mechanism to retard movement of the first and second drive wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2001
    Inventor: John R. Caldwell
  • Patent number: 6270101
    Abstract: The invention relates to a mobile standing device for use in rehabilitation. The running wheels of the device are drive-connected to driving handwheels by chain or belt drives. In order to reduce the risk of injury or accident with a standing device of this type, the chain or belt drives are arranged in such a way that they are enclosed, preferably inside the front frame tube of the standing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2001
    Inventor: Marec Hase
  • Patent number: 6264224
    Abstract: A compact, covered front wheel drive assembly that replaces the handlebars on an existing bicycle frame. It drives the front wheel while standard bicycle foot pedals and drive train drive the rear wheel. However, it can also be operated independently of the foot pedals, or locked for use of the foot pedals alone. It has drive ratios and shifting that are independent of the rear drive train, and are configured for selectable, comfortable hand cranking rates, including normal bicycle cruising speed. Shift levers are mounted within reach of a rider's thumbs, without removing a hand from the cranks. A brake lever on each handle holds the brake cables forward at all times, eliminating interference both with the hand cranks and with obstacles brushing beside the bicycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2001
    Inventor: Cal M. Phillips
  • Patent number: 6193253
    Abstract: A hand-operable operating assembly for a vehicle, such as a three-wheeled cycle. The drive mechanism comprises opposing members, such as oppositely oriented crank handles. A sprocket and chain assembly connects the hand crank to the pedal crank on the cycle. A grip is attached to each crank handle. The grip is pivotally attached to the crank handle and is also connected to a cable system that steers the front guidance wheel on the cycle. Thus, the front wheel is turned by simply pivoting one or both of the grips. To keep the grips properly oriented for the operator rearward of the crank handles, the crank handles are rotatably attached to the crank rods. A timing belt is provided on each crank handle to maintain the correct orientation of the handle as it orbits the crankshaft. Thus, the cycle can be steered and driven simultaneously by operation of the grips. Moreover, the grips are positioned so that they pivot about their central transverse axes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2001
    Inventor: Robert V. Barnett
  • Patent number: 6105986
    Abstract: A handcycle having a hand drive mechanism for powering the cycle which includes an attitude control system having an elastomer member serving as a resilient member to resist leaning forces. The system includes adjustability to accommodate weights of various riders so that a proper stabilizing opposing force is applied. An adjustable steering angle mechanism is provided on the handcycle frame permitting smooth movement regardless of the steering angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Inventors: Jon Franks, Tim Brummer
  • Patent number: 6099009
    Abstract: A bicycle has separate chain-and-sprocket drive mechanisms for the front and rear wheels. The front wheel drive includes a cross shaft and a pair of crank arms at the ends of the cross shaft, both of which crank arms extend in the same radial direction from the cross shaft. The cross shaft and crank arms serve the dual function of enabling steering the bicycle similarly to conventional handlebars and also driving the chain-and-sprocket mechanism for the front wheel. At the ends of the crank arms, a pair of outwardly-directed diametrically-opposed axles form bearing surfaces for a pair of freely rotatable hand grips. A drive sprocket on the cross shaft is rotated by cranking the hand grips in a continuous 360 degree rotary motion, and through the chain, driving a driven sprocket associated with the front wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Inventor: Karl S. Schroeder
  • Patent number: 6036210
    Abstract: A handcycle supports a rider in a forward leaning ("modified prone") position, with the feet of the rider in straps above the rear axle, and the arms hanging generally downwardly toward a pedal assembly. The pedal assembly is generally at about the chest portion of the rider, which increases the leverage that can be applied to rotate the hand pedals, thereby increasing the speed of the bicycle. The central bar of the cycle frame extends upwardly and forwardly to support a rider at an angle of between about 15 and 45 degrees, and more preferably at an angle of about 30 degrees from the rear axle. Appropriate padding and supports can be provided along the mid-portion of the bar to support the chest of the rider at the proper angle. A damper assembly connected between the front fork and the frame of the cycle provides variation in dampening for front wheel stability in changing road conditions. The gear shift and brakes are also easily accessible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Inventor: David V. Lee
  • Patent number: 5908199
    Abstract: An arm propulsion system for mounting on a bicycle includes a first crank and a second crank mounted on opposite ends of a connection and rotation pin. These cranks are mounted in a specular position with respect to one another. Hand-grips are connected with the cranks. The hand-grips lie on a common axis and are rotatable about the common axis, and this common axis is parallel to the axis of the connection and rotation pin. To apply propulsion force to the bicycle front tire, a first sprocket wheel, located coaxial with the connection and rotation pin, is connected with a second sprocket wheel by a first transmission mechanism (e.g., a chain). A third sprocket wheel, located coaxial with the second sprocket wheel, connects with the front wheel of the bicycle by a second transmission mechanism. A connection element is provided on the connection and rotation pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 1, 1999
    Inventor: Fabrizio Rigato
  • Patent number: 5853184
    Abstract: A hand-powered vehicle with a device for positioning the crank arms so that the rider can easily adjust them for both vertical and horizontal movement and placement. A device for supporting the rider's legs and feet that combines both a leg support and footrest that can be adjusted forward and rearward relative to the front wheel to accommodate different rider leg lengths. A device for triangulating the frame behind the seat in order to increase frame rigidity between the crank arms and the seat back. A self tightening seat with fabric attached in such a manner that the rider's weight holds the seat frame attached to the frame of the cycle. A device for quickly removing and replacing the rear axle while maintaining proper toe in and toe out of the rear wheels. A device for lowering the structure of the frame below the axis of the front wheel for the purpose of lowering the center of gravity of the bike and rider.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 29, 1998
    Inventors: Michael S. Lofgren, Brian C. Stewart
  • Patent number: 5816598
    Abstract: A two-wheel drive hand and foot powered bicycle in accordance with the present invention includes a rear wheel that is driven by a foot pedal via a chain and derailleur mechanism. A front wheel is rotatably mounted to the bottom portions of first and second yokes. The first yoke is pivotally mounted to the front portion of the bicycle frame and the upper portion of the second yoke is rigidly mounted to the first yoke by a steering coupling member, wherein a steering torque applied to second yoke pivots the first yoke to turn the front wheel. A hand crank assembly is rotatably mounted to the steering coupling member and the upper portion of the second yoke. Power generated by operation of the hand crank assembly is transmitted by a chain to a sprocket assembly mounted to the front wheel. The operator may selectively power the front wheel, the rear wheel, or both wheels simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1998
    Inventor: Wayne S. Dodakian
  • Patent number: 5683321
    Abstract: A drive apparatus and method for continuously transmitting power to an axle, shaft and the like are disclosed. The drive apparatus includes a flexible ratch (414) such as flexible chain, belt or cable and cooperating first and second ratch engaging energy transmitting members (434) for releasably engaging the flexible ratch (414) to continuously drive an axle (410), shaft or the like. To operate the apparatus, the first and second enerergy transmitting ratch engaging members (434) are moved in a direction parallel to the linear paths of the flexible ratch means (414) which causes the first ratch engaging member (434) to engage and drive the flexible ratch (414) which rotatingly drives the axle (410). The ratch engaging members (434) direction of movement is then reversed so that the first ratch engaging means (434) releases the flexible ratch means (414) as the second ratch engaging means (434) engages the flexible ratch means (414) to continuously drive the axle, shaft or the like (410).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 4, 1997
    Assignees: Franklin E. Barnett, Brian D. Smith
    Inventor: Franklin Earl Barnett
  • Patent number: 5542689
    Abstract: A front wheel drive system for a bicycle which can be installed on a bicycle to drive the front wheel by rocking the handlebars back and forth. A chain positioning and support mechanism is attached to the handlebar of a bicycle. The handle bar is attached to a rotatable outer sleeve of a handle bar stem. A rocker switch in the outer sleeve selectively locks the handle bar relative to the stem or allows the handle bar to rotate about the stem. A chain attached to the chain positioning and support mechanism engages a freewheel attached to the front hub of a bicycle and terminates in a spring connecting back to the chain positioning and support mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 6, 1996
    Inventor: Wayne C. Chalfant
  • Patent number: 5520402
    Abstract: A portable mobile stand for a human which uses a pair of side member assemblies with a vertical support member being mounted therebetween. A human occupying compartment is located in the space provided between the side member assemblies. The vertical support member assembly includes a knee support pad and a hip support pad with a buttocks strap being connectable between the side member assemblies and locatable against the buttocks of the human user. A chest support pad is mounted on a support bar with this support bar being pivotally movably mounted on the vertical support member. This support bar is lockable at any one of various positions relative to the vertical support member. Each side member assembly includes a hand engagable handle with these handles being deflectable to a vertical out-of-the-way position. When these handles are located in the horizontal/usable position, such are locked in position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1996
    Inventors: Brian J. Nestor, Hans J. Evertse