Reciprocating Power Application Patents (Class 280/252)
  • Patent number: 11634188
    Abstract: Systems and methods for collecting electric scooters are described herein. In some embodiments, the systems and methods facilitate a “snaking” configuration of attaching, coupling, or fixing multiple electric scooters to one another. The snaking configuration enables multiple electric scooters to be collected together and moved to various locations, such as locations where the electric scooters can be rented, serviced, and so on. Further, the systems and methods enable any electric scooter to act as a collecting scooter, and thus a scooter share service or other fleet of scooters can manage the collection and provisioning of scooters in a location without special vehicles or equipment, among other benefits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2021
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2023
    Assignee: Neptune Scooters
    Inventors: Forrest Jean North, Matthew Michael O'Brien
  • Patent number: 11635124
    Abstract: A device including a frame; an actuator attached to the frame and slidaby movable with respect to the frame along a linear axis, and a helical member positioned within the frame and rotatably movable with respect to the frame about a helical axis of the helical member, wherein the helical axis is parallel to the linear axis, wherein the actuator and the helical member are configured to cooperate with one another such that (a) motion of the actuator along the linear axis in a first linear direction causes corresponding rotation of the helical member about the helical axis in a first rotational direction and (b) motion of the actuator along the linear axis in a second linear direction that is opposite the first linear direction causes corresponding rotation of the helical member about the helical axis in a second rotational direction that is opposite the first rotational direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2023
    Assignee: Z-One and Only Technology Inc.
    Inventors: Zale Zeviar, Ben Millen
  • Patent number: 10807677
    Abstract: A directional transmission mechanism, a directional sprocket apparatus using the directional transmission mechanism, and a pedal device using the directional sprocket apparatus are disclosed. The directional transmission mechanism includes a driving shaft, an output shaft, a co-rotating wheel, a reverse-rotating wheel, and a switching mechanism. The co-rotating wheel set drives the output shaft to rotate in a direction that is the same as that of the driving shaft. The reverse-rotating wheel set drives the output shaft to rotate in a direction opposite to that of the driving shaft. The switching mechanism switches the driving shaft to drive the co-rotating wheel set or drive the reverse-rotating wheel set to rotate, so as to enable the output shaft to rotate directionally. The co-rotating wheel set is connected with the driving shaft and the output shaft, and the reverse-rotating wheel set is connected with the driving shaft and the output shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2020
    Assignee: Shenzhen Geniusmart Technologies Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jun Wu
  • Patent number: 9745015
    Abstract: A Device is fitted to a traditional bicycle to facilitate a riding style in which the rear wheel of the bicycle can slid sideways or drifted in a controlled manner by harnessing the rider's backward pedaling motions to thrust a block of UHMW plastic downward to the road surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2017
    Inventor: David James Munz
  • Patent number: 9433545
    Abstract: A wheelchair has an additional auxiliary drive device that allows the wheelchair to be moved even without using one's hands. Two drive wheels are connected by means of a wheel hub and one wheel is arranged at one side of a wheelchair frame and the other wheel at the opposite side of the wheelchair frame. A seat is arranged between the drive wheels, the seat surface of which is arranged such that it can be tilted along the wheel axis of the drive wheels, wherein the tilting axis of the seat is located centrally between the drive wheels above the wheel axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2016
    Inventor: Hasan Hüseyin Isik
  • Patent number: 9073597
    Abstract: A crank system of the present disclosure has a rotating bar that is fixedly coupled to a first end of a first axle and for actuating a wheel, a first crank assembly coupled to the first end of the first axle and coupled to a first pedal, and a second crank assembly coupled to a second end of the first axle and a second pedal. The first crank assembly and the second crank assembly are coupled to the first axle such that the rotating bar is aligned with a wheel gear assembly adapted for rotating the wheel when the first pedal and second pedal are at their zenith and nadir positions, alternatively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2015
    Inventor: Mauro Rundini
  • Patent number: 9073599
    Abstract: A crank system of the present disclosure has a first crank assembly that is coupled to a first end of a first axle and coupled to a first pedal. The crank system further has a second crank assembly coupled to a second end of the first axle and a second pedal. Additionally, the crank system has a rotating wheel fixedly coupled to the first crank assembly and the second crank assembly such that as the first and second pedals are actuated by a user, the rotating wheel rotates thereby actuating a chain and inducing motion in a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2015
    Inventor: Mauro Rundini
  • Patent number: 9028372
    Abstract: An exercise device (20) includes a frame (22) and a drive mechanism (100) attached to the frame. The drive mechanism includes a first shaft (122) having a first fixed gear (128) and a second shaft (124) having a second fixed gear (130). The first fixed gear and the second fixed gear are mechanically linked to cause the first shaft to rotate in an opposite direction than the second shaft. A first linear input is mechanically linked to the first shaft and a second linear input is mechanically linked to the second shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Inventor: Brian Beard
  • Patent number: 8979107
    Abstract: An easy-pedaling and labor-saving bicycle includes a frame, a front and a rear wheel set, a transmission set driving the rear wheel set, and a pedal device driving the transmission set. The pedal device includes a crank disposed on the frame, a link-up member driving a rear link-up plate to rotate, a link-up strip disposed between one end of the crank and the link-up member, a pedal unit disposed at the other end of the crank, and a straining member disposed between the frame and the link-up strip. Pedaling the pedal unit makes the crank set as an extension of a moment arm for increasing a force moment imparting to the transmission set. The crank swings downward easily to allow the other end thereof to pull the link-up strip, whereby the link-up member, the transmission set, and the rear wheel are driven to pedal easily, save labor and drive quickly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Inventor: Yong-Song Lin
  • Patent number: 8973936
    Abstract: A rehabilitation device includes a wheeled platform with first and second pedals, the first and second pedals engaging drive mechanisms for first and second rear wheels of the device, respectively. First and second braking mechanisms provide independent braking of the first and second rear wheels of the device. The independent braking mechanisms of the rehabilitation device provide a method of steering the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Inventor: Scott Novins
  • Publication number: 20150028560
    Abstract: Embodiments described herein are configured to receive forces generated by a user moving their appendages, and convert the force into mechanical force and/or energy. More specifically, embodiments may convert axial and/or tangential force into rotational force. The rotational force may be utilized to power devices, drivetrains, vehicles, such as bicycles, tricycles, kayaks, boats, etc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2014
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Inventor: William Leland Goin
  • Publication number: 20140327225
    Abstract: A device for human conveyance includes a frame and a resilient member that has two ends. Upon exerting a flattening force on the resilient member, increase in distance between the two ends and the increase in distance is converted into movement of the platform by, for example a ratchet system interfaced to a wheel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2014
    Publication date: November 6, 2014
    Applicant: MINDWORKS HOLDINGS, LLC
    Inventors: Gregory R. Prior, Christopher Phillip Miller
  • Publication number: 20140319795
    Abstract: The invention is directed towards a scooter comprising a frame, front wheel carried by the frame, rear wheel carried by the frame, a pair of reciprocating pedals attached to the frame, a drive assembly for transferring force from the reciprocating pedals to the rear wheel comprising: a pedal cam having a plurality of openings can various distances from the rotational center of the drive cam; a drive pin extending from one of the reciprocating pedals and is received on one of the openings; and, a gear shifting cable attached to the drive pin causing the drive pin to engage with one of the opening so that the drive cam is rotated by the movement of the pedal so that based upon the opening engaged, the rotational power output that the drive cam ultimately exerts on the rear wheel is varied.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2014
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Applicant: Zike, LLC
    Inventors: Nathan A. Scolari, George Reiter
  • Patent number: 8857840
    Abstract: The present invention is an improved drive system for a personal vehicle comprising: a frame with a steerable front wheel and rear wheel connected to a drive axle connected to a crank arm by a drive linkage; a roller rotatably attached to the crank arm; a pedal pivotally attached to the frame having a cavity for receiving the roller; a contoured wear bar carried by the cavity for contacting the perimeter of the roller; a major arch included in the contoured wear bar contacting the roller when the pedal is on a down stroke; a minor arch included in the contoured wear bar for providing additional power when the pedal is near the end of its down stroke; and, a major front slope included in the wear bar for contacting the roller when the pedal is in its upstroke to place the pedal at its highest most position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Zike, LLC
    Inventors: Nathan A. Scolari, George Reiter
  • Patent number: 8702115
    Abstract: A drive mechanism effects a rotary power output in response to a reciprocating power input resulting from substantially linear forces applied to the drive mechanism, such as those forces applied by a rider on a bicycle. The drive mechanism includes input bevel gears meshed with corresponding output bevel gears coupled to a common power output shaft through clutches that effect a rotary power output at the power output shaft in response to the reciprocating power input from the substantially linear forces. Opposite crank arms are coupled with the input bevel gears such that each crank arm is advanced by an applied substantially linear force, and is retracted upon advancement of the opposite crank arm. In a bicycle, opposite pedals are coupled to corresponding crank arms and are moved through predetermined power strokes in response to substantially linear forces applied by a rider to effect corresponding rotational movements of the input bevel gears and concomitant rotary power output at the power output shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Inventors: Radu Kramer, William X. Desmond
  • Patent number: 8657319
    Abstract: The present invention is a device which can be used to provide rotation motion to a driving wheel by the application of lateral motion by the user. It consists of axial track plate having a plurality of track paths with said guide paths having a plurality of slope sections. Additionally the caliper element can enable movement of a wheelchair's wheel from a first position to a second position. The caliper element is responsive to slope sections such that the slope sections can engage or disengage the caliper element. The caliper element's broad face is parallel to the track plate's broad face. The broad face is perpendicularly connected to each other via cylindrical pegs along the guide paths. The caliper element has a mating surface enabled to rotate a sprocket which is concentrically connected to a wheel hub where wheel rotates at the same angular velocity as the sprocket while the sprocket is in the engaged mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Inventors: Geoffrey Cullen, Carlton Forse, Ryan Gresh
  • Patent number: 8632089
    Abstract: A mechanism for converting reciprocal motion to rotary motion. A pair of driving members are mounted to undergo reciprocal up-and-down movement about a first axis. A pair of driving chains are drivingly connected to the respective driving members so that reciprocal up-and-down movement of the driving members transmits respective driving forces to the driving chains. A driven member is mounted for undergoing rotational motion in one direction of rotation about a second axis different from the first axis. A drive unit transfers, via the driving forces of the driving chains, reciprocal up-and-down movement of the driving members to rotational motion of the driven member in the one direction of rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Inventors: Wilson X. Bezerra, Silvana A. Bezerra
  • Patent number: 8628102
    Abstract: An extended crank system for a bicycle or similar crank driven system has frame with a bottom bracket and a pair of cranks operatively connected to opposite ends of the bottom bracket. A chain ring is operatively connected to one of the cranks. A crank hub is rotatably connected to each of the cranks and extends away from and is substantially parallel to the bottom bracket. A pair of crank extensions is connected to the crank hub, and a pair of crank extension hubs is connected to the pair of crank extensions. Additionally, a pair of crank followers is pivotably connected to opposite ends of the crank extension hubs at respective first ends of the crank followers, as well as pivotably connected to opposite ends of a top bracket mounted to the frame above the chain ring and behind the seat post, at respective second ends of the crank followers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Inventor: Brian Scott McClure
  • Patent number: 8540266
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Inventor: Scott Bradley Baker
  • Patent number: 8517405
    Abstract: A reciprocal pedal drive mechanism for human powered vehicles. The drive motion on each of the two pedals is efficiently converted to two motions, one for pedal recovery and the other for driving the vehicle forward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Inventor: Hui Yan
  • Publication number: 20130020780
    Abstract: A linear drive regular upright cycle (10) having linearly reciprocating pedals (30a,b) located between front wheel (14) and rear wheel (16) in order to achieve a more popular linear drive bicycle design, in upright bicycle with regular handling characteristics. Top extremities of a pair of pedal-sliders (24a,b) are journalled for independent up and down type oscillation in a pedal-slider bracket (26) which is connected to a frame (12) through a seat tube (28). Linearly reciprocating pedals (30a,b) are attached to lower extremities of pedal-sliders (24a,b) and are rotatably linked to crank (32) through a pair of straight links (36a,b); so as to transfer power from pedals (30a,b) to crank (32). Links especially are super short and straight whereby saving weight, while other dimensions are mostly halved. Axis of reciprocating movement of pedal-sliders (24a,b) crosses to front of axis of crank (32) giving it an inherent tendency to rotate forward whereby eliminating “dead-spot”.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2011
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Inventor: Chung-Chiao John Po
  • Patent number: 8272655
    Abstract: A mini bike for strengthening a leg muscle, and for enjoying amusement and a leisure time is provided. The mini bike having a pedal as a power generator includes: a driver having a first bevel gear in order to transmit rotation power generated by a rolling motion of a pedal; a second bevel gear installed to transmit rotation power generated in the driver; a first power transmission gear coaxially installed in the second bevel gear to transmit rotation power to a spline shaft; a clutch positioned at the spline shaft to selectively connect rotation power of the first power transmission gear to a first gearshift and a second gearshift and for controlling a low speed and a high speed; a first driving gear and a second driving gear for rotating by selection of the clutch; and a driving controller including a gearshift in which the clutch is connected to the cable in order to select the first gearshift and the second gearshift.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Inventor: Mi Nar Kim
  • Patent number: 8220814
    Abstract: A bicycle propelled by stepping motion comprises a frame, forward and rear wheels, and a steering wheel. A pair of elongate pedals extend rearward from a pivot connection to the frame. An axle is mounted for rotation to the frame and has a crank arm at either end. A drive sprocket is fixed to the axle for rotation in a vertical plane, and an endless chain couples the drive sprocket to a rear wheel sprocket. Each pedal carries a connecting structure that receives an associated connecting element that extends horizontally from one of the crank arms. The connecting structure defines an arcuate path along which the associated connecting element is constrained to displace. The path is so shaped that the connecting structure engages the connecting element with a contacting surface oriented normal to the circle which the connecting element is constrained to follow by virtue of connection to the crank arm. Less force is misdirected and smoother operation is obtained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Inventors: Michael F Riviglia, Tom Stilo
  • Patent number: 8215654
    Abstract: A drive system for a bicycle includes first and second drive sprockets, with respective one-way clutches. The drive sprockets are mounted on opposite ends of the bike's drive shaft. First and second idler pulleys are mounted on an upper pulley shaft. The upper pulley shaft mounts on the bike's frame above the rotary drive shaft and at a right angle thereto. A chain is mounted on the drive sprockets and the idler pulleys. A first pedal is attached to the chain between the first drive sprocket and the first idler pulley. A second pedal is attached to the chain between the second linear drive sprocket and the first linear driven idler pulley. First and second linear chain guides are mounted on opposite sides of the frame and disposed next to the chain for guiding portions of the chain and the pedals as they are moved up and down on the bicycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Inventor: Walter P. Leser
  • Patent number: 8210553
    Abstract: An improved pedal driving device of a standing type bicycle includes driving sprockets installed at positions of first and second rotating shafts of first and second cranks respectively, and a chain installed between the two driving sprockets for rotating the two driving sprockets synchronously, such that left and right pedals pivotally and respectively installed between other ends of the first and second cranks and provided for pedaling by a user's legs, and when the first and second cranks drive the first and second rotating shafts to rotate, the two driving sprockets and the chain are operated together to rotate the first and second rotating shafts and the first and second cranks synchronously and drive the left and right pedals to revolve along an elliptical track with a clash-free and smooth movement, so as to achieve a smooth, comfortable and safe operation of the bicycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: Hsin Lung Accessories Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jeeng-Neng Fan
  • Patent number: 8157280
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: Morse Cycle Company LLC
    Inventor: Robert M. Drymalski
  • Publication number: 20120061940
    Abstract: A drive mechanism effects a rotary power output in response to a reciprocating power input resulting from substantially linear forces applied to the drive mechanism, such as those forces applied by a rider on a bicycle. The drive mechanism includes input bevel gears meshed with corresponding output bevel gears coupled to a common power output shaft through clutches that effect a rotary power output at the power output shaft in response to the reciprocating power input from the substantially linear forces. Opposite crank arms are coupled with the input bevel gears such that each crank arm is advanced by an applied substantially linear force, and is retracted upon advancement of the opposite crank arm. In a bicycle, opposite pedals are coupled to corresponding crank arms and are moved through predetermined power strokes in response to substantially linear forces applied by a rider to effect corresponding rotational movements of the input bevel gears and concomitant rotary power output at the power output shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2011
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Inventors: Radu Kramer, William X. Desmond
  • Patent number: 8056915
    Abstract: A stepping scooter includes a scooter body for supporting a rider, a moving system, a driving system and a steering lever. The moving system includes a driving wheel rotatably connected with the scooter body, a driven wheel coaxially aligned with the driving wheel and rotatably connected with the scooter body. The driving system includes a driving arrangement pivotally connected to the scooter body, and a transmission and speeding up arrangement engaged with the driving arrangement to convert a human power applied on the driving arrangement into a rotation power to drive the moving system. When the human power is applied on the driving arrangement, the driving wheel is rotated so as to drive the driven wheel to move forward. On the other hand, the transmission and speeding up arrangement is capable of increasing a transmission velocity twice to save a physical force for the rider at the same time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Inventor: Mingfang Pang
  • Publication number: 20110248466
    Abstract: A standard-sized bicycle includes a main frame, a rear drive wheel and a rowing mechanism. The rowing mechanism is coupled to the steering columb 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: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2011
    Publication date: October 13, 2011
    Inventor: Juliana Leslie
  • Patent number: 8025303
    Abstract: A device for assembling a bicycle equipped with a pedal crank system to improve the mechanics of the kinetic energy put in by the rider by simplifying the movement of the rider's feet into a reciprocating up and down movement. It consists of right and left cranksets (1D, 1G) pivoting about the axis (Ex) of the shafts (2), a chainset which includes a rack (3) that propels the ring gear (4) and the set of ring gears and chains (5, 6) by transforming the play forces through a rear changer (7) and moves forward the rear wheel via its hub receiving the propelling force of the play of the hubs of the cassettes (8) integrated in the hub of the wheel (9), or external with a system of one-way freewheel (8), fixed on the rear fork (12) by the rotating pin (Ax) also maintaining the wheel fastener (25).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Inventor: Pavel-Tivadar Sakirov
  • Publication number: 20110193312
    Abstract: A drive apparatus for converting a substantially linear drive force to a rotary propulsive force, the apparatus includes a track member and a pedal slidingly engaging the track member. The pedal is movable between first and second positions. The apparatus further includes an axle. A unidirectional clutch mechanism is coupled to the pedal and the axle. The clutch operably engages the power axle when a substantially linear force is applied in moving the pedal from the first position to the second position such that a rotary propulsive force is produced by the axle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2010
    Publication date: August 11, 2011
    Inventor: John Fabian
  • Patent number: 7980578
    Abstract: An application for a device for human conveyance includes a front wheel and a rear wheel. The rear wheel interfaced to a sprocket through a ratchet drive system which allows forward rotation of the rear wheel in response to forward rotation of the sprocket and allows free backward rotation of the sprocket. A frame interfaces the front wheel to the rear wheel keeping the front wheel at a constant distance from the rear wheel. The front and rear wheels are rotatably interfaced to the frame. A front end of an arc-shaped spring is affixed to the frame in proximity to the front wheel and a rear end of the arc-shaped spring has a sprocket gear interfaced to the sprocket whereas depression of the arc-shaped spring pushes the rear-end of the arc-shaped spring in a rearward direction with respect to the rear wheel and the sprocket gear turns the sprocket in a forward rotational direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: Mindworks Holdings, LLC
    Inventors: Gregory R. Prior, Christopher Phillip Miller
  • Patent number: 7938420
    Abstract: A drive mechanism for a bicycle is provided including a pedal leverage arm, a drive sprocket spindle, a drive sprocket, a drive gear, and a vertical gear on each side of the bicycle. The vertical gear is attached to the pedal leverage arm so that the vertical gear can mesh with the drive sprocket. A chain on each side of the bicycle extends around the drive gear and a wheel sprocket. Downward movement of a pedal leverage arm causes the attached vertical gear to move downward, causing the meshed drive gear to turn, which causes the drive sprocket spindle on that side of the bicycle to turn, which causes the chain that goes around the drive sprocket on that side of the bicycle to turn, which causes the wheel sprocket and a rear wheel to turn, due to permanent attachment of both the drive sprocket and drive gear to the drive sprocket spindle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Inventor: Nicholas F. Mirabile
  • Patent number: 7924552
    Abstract: A portable electronic device includes a housing, a gasbag module installed on the housing in an expansible manner, and a pressure module connected to the gasbag module for conducting air outside the gasbag module into the gasbag module so as to expand the gasbag module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Wistron Corporation
    Inventor: Tien-Chung Tseng
  • Patent number: 7914027
    Abstract: A scooter having a rockable platform upon which the rider stands with both feet. The platform is attached by a chain to one-way sprocket wheels mounted to the scooter rear wheel rotating the rear wheel to propel the scooter in a forward direction as the front end of the platform moves and as the rear end portion of the platform moves down. The scooter has a position to allow the user to place one foot on the ground and one foot on the platform to propel the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: M.Y. Products, LLC
    Inventor: Long Yu
  • Patent number: 7887076
    Abstract: A skateboard-like personal vehicle comprises a platform, a pair of steerable front wheels controlled by an upright steering lever movable left or right about a longitudinal pivot axis by one hand of the rider, a pair of rear wheels, one of which is driven by a reciprocable foot pedal, and an upright post which can be gripped by the rider's other hand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Inventor: Joshua Adams
  • Patent number: 7878520
    Abstract: Disclosed is an overdrive system for a bicycle, which increases the speed through use of a combination of a plurality of sprockets and ratchet wheels, and which drives with less power where a user steps on a pedal of a drive lever using the principle of a lever as overdrive generating means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Inventor: Ik-Byung Jang
  • Publication number: 20100320720
    Abstract: A motion transfer mechanism for transferring reciprocal motion to rotary motion. The motion transfer mechanism comprises at least one driving member configured to undergo reciprocal motion about a first axis and at least one clutch housing integral with the at least one driving member and configured to undergo angular displacement about the first axis during reciprocal motion of the at least one driving member. A driven member supports the at least one clutch housing and is mounted to undergo rotary motion in a direction of rotation about the first axis. At least one unidirectional clutch mechanism is mounted on the driven member and is configured to engage the at least one clutch housing for effecting rotation of the driven member in the direction of rotation during reciprocal motion of the at least one driving member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2010
    Publication date: December 23, 2010
    Inventors: Wilson X. Bezerra, Silvana A. Bezerra
  • Publication number: 20100230925
    Abstract: A four wheeled, human-powered, striding cycle that uses the stepping and striding motion of the human legs to propel a rider forward. Two separate and dependent foot pedals are moved fore and aft along a concaved arc segment. The motion simulates the natural stepping and striding motion of a running human. A standing human steps on a pedal, then moves it down and aft in a striding motion. As one pedal is moved aft, the other pedal moves forward in a reciprocating fashion. A cable and pulley system connects each pedal with its respective rear wheel. Pedal motion aft applies torque to its respective drive shaft which in turn rotates its respective drive wheel. Pedal motion forward also provides torque to the opposing drive shaft creating additional torque for the opposite wheel. Forward motion begins when force is exerted down and aft on each pedal by the stepping and striding motion of the human leg.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2009
    Publication date: September 16, 2010
    Inventor: Todd Thielbar
  • Patent number: 7793956
    Abstract: The present invention provides a scooter with driving mechanism comprising a scooter assembly and at least a driving mechanism, wherein the scooter assembly has a treadle and a rear wheel; the driving mechanism comprises a reset device and a transmission device, which has an irreversible transmission unit and a passively driven gear, wherein the passively driven gear is driven by the driving gear in meshed manner to drive the irreversible transmission unit in relay way, the irreversible transmission unit, which is connected to the rear wheel, is served to drive the rear wheel to rotate in single direction. Thus, by means of the treading and releasing actions with the treadle, the scooter can be driven smoothly with benefits in not only the risk of tumbling down accident being avoided but also the effects in energy-saving and environmental protection being achieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Assignee: Laing Ban International Inc.
    Inventor: Mei-Yen Hsu
  • Patent number: 7753387
    Abstract: A bicycle stepping apparatus to increase the moment of force and save manual stepping labor has a stepping means located between a sprocket and a crank of a bicycle. The stepping means has a socket wrench which has a hub on one end with ratchet teeth formed thereon to house a flywheel. The flywheel has a gear engageable with the hub. The axis of the flywheel is coupled on the axle of the sprocket and fastened by a nut. The socket wrench has another end opposite to the hub that has an elongate sliding track formed on the bottom side to slidable hold a pair of first bearings of an auxiliary bar. The auxiliary bar has a steel ring on the bottom end with a pair of second bearings coupled on two sides to allow a shaft of a pedal to run through. The socket wrench can increase the moment of force to save manual stepping labor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Assignee: Ho Luen Corp.
    Inventor: Yi Pin Wei
  • Patent number: 7753386
    Abstract: A steering mechanism and method for a manually powered vehicle are provided. The steering mechanism includes a stem. An inner shaft freely rotates within the stem. A first end of a first cable and a first end of a second cable are operatively connected to the inner shaft. A second end of the first cable and a second end of the second cable are operatively connected to a steering column. The steering column supports a wheel of the manually powered vehicle. The steering column and the wheel rotate in response to rotation of the steering bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Inventor: Robert Drymalski
  • Patent number: 7717446
    Abstract: A bicycle that includes an elliptical pedaling motion is provided. The bicycle includes a frame, having a front wheel and a rear wheel, and a first and a second foot link guide track. A first and a second foot link, each including a foot platform and a guide track coupler that slideably couples each foot link to a respective foot link guide track and a crank assembly that is coupled to the first and second foot links and to a sprocket that is rotatably coupled to the frame. This Abstract is provided for the sole purpose of complying with the Abstract requirement rules that allow a reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the disclosure contained herein. This Abstract is submitted with the explicit understanding that it will not be used to interpret or to limit the scope or the meaning of the claims.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: PT Motion Works, Inc.
    Inventors: Bryan Pate, Brent Teal
  • Patent number: 7707329
    Abstract: A remotely programmable device includes a message store for receiving messages over a radiolink from a controller and forwarding the messages to a local application resident in the device, writable registers for controlling operation of the device, a command interpreter for interpreting commands embedded in thessages to write data to the register, and a lock for inhibiting writing of data to the registers. The local application is responsive to an authorization code embedded in the messages to release the lock and thereby allow writing of data to the registers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Zarlink Semiconductor AB
    Inventor: Per-Olof Bergstedt
  • Publication number: 20100096826
    Abstract: A bicycle according to the present invention comprises of a steering axis and an axle of rear wheel that are attached in one unit with a frame to build a form; a pair of guide members with guide holes formed therein are attached to both cut ends of the frame; a pedal axle with the attachment of pedals and a rotating gear in a unit are respectively assembled and fixed onto the guide members; the bicycle according to the present invention comprises a crankshaft of which a pair of crank cams is assembled and fixed into both cut ends of the frame; a gear which engages with the gear; and a spindle which supports a unit of the gear and a sprocket to rotate; the bicycle according to the present invention is run by a running system in which the crank cam rotates when the pedals are reciprocated up and down.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2007
    Publication date: April 22, 2010
    Inventors: Mi Ja Baek, Woon Ha Baek
  • Patent number: 7621547
    Abstract: A scooter propulsion mechanism includes a pedal secured to the upper surface of the platform and a rigid link pivotally connected from the pedal to the mechanism components mounted on the bottom surface of the platform. Approximately one-half of the propulsion mechanism is located at one side of the rear wheel, and the other one-half is located at the other side of the rear wheel. The mechanism in one embodiment includes a plurality of gear wheels to increase rotational speed, and in another embodiment a plurality of sprocket wheels joined by chain loops, in both cases to drive the rear wheel and propel the scooter. A slot in the platform allows the larger sprocket wheels or gear wheels to project upwardly therethrough, so that there is sufficient ground clearance for safe riding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Inventor: Ronnie Chee Keung Fan
  • Patent number: 7600771
    Abstract: Drivetrains and frames for vehicles, equipment, machines, etc. Some embodiments of the drivetrains and frames are particularly suited for human powered machines, such as bicycles and exercise equipment. In some embodiments, a drivetrain includes a reciprocating crank coupled to a crank pivot. A lever couples to the crank via a lever pivot positioned on the crank. A lever stop cooperates with a lever guide surface to guide a motion of the lever as the lever pivots about the lever pivot. The lever and/or the crank are operably coupled to a drive pulley, idler pulley, and/or compound pulley. In some embodiments, a drive cable operably couples the lever and/or the crank to the drive pulley, idler pulley, and/or the compound pulley. In one embodiment, one or more pulleys couple to the lever's distal ends. In some embodiments, the drivetrain includes a wheel hub adapted to receive torque from the crank via a drive pulley.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2009
    Assignee: Catadon Systems LLC
    Inventors: Donald C Miller, Michael C Ross
  • Publication number: 20090224506
    Abstract: The invention concerns a device for assembling a bicycle equipped with a pedal crank system to improve the mechanics of the kinetic energy put in by the rider by simplifying the movement of the rider's feet into a reciprocating up and down movement It consists of the following parts: the right and left crankset (1D, 1G) pivoting about the axis (Ex) of the shafts (2), the chainset which includes the rack (3) and propels the ring gear (4) and the set of ring gears and the chain (5, 6) by transforming the play forces through a rear changer (7) and move forward the rear wheel vis its hub receiving the propelling force of the play of the hubs of the cassettes (8) integrated in the hub of the wheel (9), or external with a system of one-way freewheel (8), fixed on the rear fork (12) by the rotating pin (Ax) also maintaining the wheel fastener (25).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2007
    Publication date: September 10, 2009
    Inventor: Pavel-Tivadar Sakirov
  • Patent number: 7581742
    Abstract: The present invention relates to the drive assembly coupled with the pedal thereon the frame, and the transmission assemblies rotated by the drive assembly. Thereby to step on the pedal repeatedly rotates the transmission assemblies to make the wheel rotate in single direction. Therefore, the invention can first enhance the operating stability and then get the exercise effect while the user kicks the ground to propel the pedal scooter and steps on the pedal repeatedly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Inventors: Po-Lin Chiu, Shern-Ji Tsay, Ching Piao-Chang
  • Publication number: 20090066053
    Abstract: A reciprocal pedal drive mechanism for human powered vehicles. The drive motion on each of the two pedals is efficiently converted to two motions, one for pedal recovery and the other for driving the vehicle forward.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2008
    Publication date: March 12, 2009
    Inventor: Hui Yan