With Gearing Patents (Class 280/260)
  • Patent number: 12227263
    Abstract: A wireless control system for a bicycle may include a base part attachable to a bicycle and a movable part. The control system may also include an electric motor disposed on the electromechanical component and a control unit disposed on the electromechanical component for operating the electric motor to operate the electromechanical component, the control unit including a wireless receiver. The control system includes a wake sensor connected to the control unit, the wake sensor configured to communicate a wake signal to the control unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2023
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2025
    Assignee: SRAM, LLC
    Inventors: Brian Jordan, Todd Squires
  • Patent number: 12221189
    Abstract: A control device is provided for a human-powered vehicle that includes a generator configured to output electrical power, an electric power storage device electrically connected to the generator, and a component having an actuator actuated by electrical power from at least one of the generator and the electric power storage device. The control device includes a controller electrically connected to at least one of the generator and the electric power storage device. The controller is configured to control an operation state of the component in accordance with information relating to at least one of an output state of the generator and a store state of the electric power storage device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2025
    Assignee: Shimano Inc.
    Inventors: Nobuhiro Kure, Toru Sano, Hiroko Matsubayashi
  • Patent number: 12054219
    Abstract: A folding vehicle is adjustable between an unfolded position and a folded position. In the unfolded position, the wheels of the vehicle are in a leading and trailing relationship. In the folded position, the components of the folding vehicle have a minimal footprint allowing for compact storage. In the folded position, the wheels may be in a side-by-side relationship with the majority of the vehicle components positioned between the wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2024
    Assignee: NewCycle Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew Demond, Kain Galliver, Mark Sanders
  • Patent number: 11993342
    Abstract: In order to form a largely oval circulatory path, in particular a pedal (1a), a crank drive (1) is described which periodically changes the effective lever length of a crank (2). In this case, gear levers (4? or 7) are mounted on a crank (2) at both ends (2 a, 2b) which rotate in opposite directions with respect to one another and thus form two further movement axes within the pedal path and are thus adapted to the natural human leg movement in a force-saving and ergonomic manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2024
    Inventor: Felix Schmidt
  • Patent number: 11975789
    Abstract: Cargo bike comprising a collapsible frame, the collapsible frame being adjustable between an elongate state in which the collapsible frame positions a front and rear wheel of the cargo bike at a first distance along a longitudinal axis of the cargo bike, and a collapsed state in which the collapsible frame positions the front and rear wheel at a second, smaller distance along the longitudinal axis of the cargo bike, a cargo holder for holding cargo that comprises a face that extends substantially transversely to the longitudinal axis, and wherein in the collapsed state of the collapsible frame at least one of the wheels extends transversely to the longitudinal axis of the cargo bike and at least partially overlaps with the transversely extending face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2024
    Assignee: Cirade
    Inventor: Silvester De Graaf
  • Patent number: 11858292
    Abstract: A hub assembly is provided for a human-powered vehicle. The hub assembly is basically provided with a hub axle, a hub body, an electric component and a user input device. The hub body is rotatably mounted on the hub axle to rotate around a rotational center axis of the hub assembly. The user input device is electrically coupled to the electric component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2024
    Assignee: Shimano Inc.
    Inventors: Azusa Yamazaki, Kazutaka Niki, Takeshi Ueda
  • Patent number: 11597465
    Abstract: A device for adjusting a seat height of a personal mobility includes a hollow seat frame extending in a longitudinal direction, a seat support shaft coupled to an upper portion of the seat frame and configured to slide upward and downward, a pedal shaft coupled to a lower portion of the seat frame, a lifting screw shaft extending downward in a state of being fixed to the seat support shaft inside the seat frame, and a rotation screw shaft fastened to the lifting screw shaft inside the seat frame and configured to raise and lower the lifting screw shaft by rotating based on operation of the pedal shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2023
    Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Ilsun Song, Donghee Seok, Duck Young Kim, Hee Jin Ro, Yocheol Jang
  • Patent number: 11414151
    Abstract: An operating system for a human-powered vehicle comprises a first operating device and a controller. The first operating device is configured to output a first control signal. The controller is configured to determine whether the first operating device meets a first predetermined condition. The controller is configured to assign, if the first operating device meets the first predetermined condition, an additional electric device a function of the first operating device so that the additional electric device outputs the first control signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2022
    Assignee: SHIMANO INC.
    Inventors: Yasuyuki Komada, Kazuya Kuwayama
  • Patent number: 11267531
    Abstract: A gear shifting system includes a drive shaft, a face gear, and at least one power transmission component(s). The gear system also includes a pinion gear assembly, which is coupled to the first end of the drive shaft. The pinion gear assembly is configured to mesh with one of the concentric gear-rings on the face gear, so that the rotational movement of the gear-ring is transmitted to the shaft. The gear shifting system is easy to operate, mechanically simple, can smoothly shift between gears under any gear shifting conditions, and exhibits decreased component wear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2022
    Assignee: CeramicSpeed Sport A/S
    Inventors: Jason Smith, Noah Granigan, Colin Diamond, William Golding, Garrett Gerchar, Morten Opprud Jakobsen, Alexander Jacobson Rosenberry
  • Patent number: 11242114
    Abstract: A chainless bicycle for child includes a frame and a power gearing device. The frame has a seat tube between the front wheel and the rear wheel, with a passive gear axially disposed on a hub of the rear wheel. The power gearing device is disposed on the frame between the seat tube and the rear wheel. The power gearing device includes an active gear and a transmission gear meshed with the active gear. The transmission gear is meshed between the active gear and the passive gear. The power gearing device further includes a crank set disposed on two sides of the active gear for driving the active gear to rotate. Therefore, the passive gear is driven through the transmission gear to rotate in an identical direction with the active gear. Thus, the meshing structure of the present invention improves the safety of children.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2022
    Assignee: TIANJIN XUFENG SPORTS EQUIPMENT MANUFACURE CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Yu-Chi Chen
  • Patent number: 11077855
    Abstract: A human-powered vehicle control device includes: an input rotary body to which a human driving force is input; a driving wheel driven by rotating the input rotary body; a transmission configured to change a ratio of a rotational speed of the driving wheel to a rotational speed of the input rotary body; a motor that assists in propulsion of the human-powered vehicle; and an electronic controller configured to control the motor. The electronic controller controls the motor in accordance with the human driving force in a case where one of the rotational speed ratio and a transmission stage of the transmission is in a first state, and stops the control of the motor in accordance with the human driving force in a case where one of the rotational speed ratio and the transmission stage is in a second state different from the first state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2021
    Assignee: Shimano Inc.
    Inventor: Tadashi Ichida
  • Patent number: 10926832
    Abstract: Disclosed is a gearbox having a central shaft (1), which is rotatably mounted relative to a stationary frame element (2) by means of at least one central shaft bearing (3), a first sun gear (4a) arranged concentrically around the central shaft (1) and fixedly secured to the frame element (2), a power transmission means (5) that is fixed in relation to the central shaft (1), and at least one first gearbox assembly (6a) rotating relative to the frame element (2) and comprising: a support plate (7), the first section (7a) of which is non-rotatably connected to the central shaft (1) and on the second section (7b) of which a planetary gear (8) is mounted by means of a planetary gear bearing (9), wherein the planetary gear (8) meshes with the first sun gear (4a) and a crank arm (10) engages rigidly with the planetary gear (8); and a driving crank (11), on which the crank arm (10) is hingedly mounted by means of a driving crank-crank arm bearing (12) and which is supported relative to the support plate (7) by means
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2021
    Assignee: Move Bikes GmbH
    Inventors: Tobias Sprote, Marcus Rochlitzer, Stefan Schubert, Frederik Wassmann, Sixtus Godehard Feindt
  • Patent number: 10850157
    Abstract: An exercise machine which provides a continuously variable exercise path for a user, based on the use of a first crank which rotates about a primary axis, and a second crank which is user-rotated about a second axis on the first crank and which is linked to a stationary cog so that the first and second cranks counter-rotate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2020
    Inventor: Willem Johannes Van Straaten
  • Patent number: 10737741
    Abstract: A skewer for fixing a wheel to a cycle-type vehicle, comprising a rod extending along a longitudinal axis, a first end that includes structural elements that cooperate with the vehicle frame, and a second end that includes structural elements configured to cooperate with a device exerting a tightening torque, in which the rod includes a groove extending along the longitudinal axis over a first length, an element having a variable diameter and a second length, the second length being less than the first length, is received in the groove so as to be translationally movable along the longitudinal axis, and an elastic biaser longitudinally constrains the variable diameter element towards the second end. The variable diameter element is a split tubular ring whose diameter in the free state is greater than the maximum outer diameter of the rod; it is longitudinally constrained by a spiral spring, and a distribution ring is interposed between the spring and the variable diameter element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2020
    Assignee: MAVIC S.A.S.
    Inventor: Jean-Pierre Mercat
  • Patent number: 10704687
    Abstract: Systems and methods for controlling transmissions and associated vehicles, machines, equipment, etc., are disclosed. In one case, a transmission control system includes a control unit configured to use a sensed vehicle speed and a commanded, target constant input speed to maintain an input speed substantially constant. The system includes one or more maps that associate a speed ratio of a transmission with a vehicle speed. In one embodiment, one such map associates an encoder position with a vehicle speed. Regarding a specific application, an automatic bicycle transmission shifting system is contemplated. An exemplary automatic bicycle includes a control unit, a shift actuator, various sensors, and a user interface. The control unit is configured to cooperate with a logic module and an actuator controller to control the cadence of a rider.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2020
    Assignee: Fallbrook Intellectual Property Company LLC
    Inventors: Christopher M. Vasiliotis, Loren T. McDaniel
  • Patent number: 10676156
    Abstract: A bicycle control device for issuing at least one command to at least one bicycle equipment comprises a body configured to be mounted on the bicycle, at least one manual actuation member associated with the body, and a clicking mechanism. The clicking mechanism comprises a magnetic clicking switch having a first element that is fixed with respect to the body, and a second element that is movable with respect to the first element and actuatable by said at least one manual actuation member when said manual actuation member issues said command.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2020
    Assignee: CAMPAGNOLO S.R.L.
    Inventors: Marco Masciolini, Fabiano Fossato, Francesco Negrin
  • Patent number: 10343745
    Abstract: A bicycle crank arm and chainring carrier assembly. The assembly includes a crank arm. A chainring carrier is sized and shaped to connect to the crank arm. A first pairing feature is formed on one of the crank arm and the chainring carrier and a second pairing feature is formed on the other of the crank arm and the chainring carrier to position the chainring carrier on the crank arm. A clearance is defined between the first and second pairing features when the first and second pairing features are paired. A torque-transmitting coupling between the crank arm and the chainring carrier is configured to transmit substantially all of the torque applied to the chainring carrier from the crank arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2019
    Assignee: SRAM, LLC
    Inventors: James Isaac Meyer, Trevor Cole Krugman
  • Patent number: 10322770
    Abstract: An electricity aided bicycle and an auxiliary power controlling method thereof are provided. The electricity aided bicycle includes a driving circuit, a rotating speed detector and a command voltage generator. The driving circuit receives a command voltage, and drives an auxiliary motor of the electricity aided bicycle based on the command voltage. The rotating speed detector generates a detection signal having a plurality of pulses based on a rotation status of a driving gear of the electricity aided bicycle. The command voltage generator receives the detection signal, and is configured to: calculate times between two adjacent pulses in the detection signal, operate numerical value derivation operation based on the times to generate an estimated velocity value, set an electricity aid strategy table and calculate the command voltage based on the estimated velocity value and the electricity aid strategy table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2019
    Assignee: Metal Industries Research & Development Centre
    Inventors: Chang-Ching Lin, Cheng-Yen Chen, I-Chiao Tsai
  • Patent number: 10232908
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a bicycle shaft transmission assembly including a bottom bracket engaged with a crank in a front part and a wheel hub in a rear part, a front main gear mounted on the bottom bracket, a rear main gear mounted on the wheel hub, a transmission shaft eccentrically arranged between the front main gear and the rear main gear. The front main gear is matched with a front end gear, and the rear main gear is matched with a rear end gear. The front main gear is externally provided with a front housing, the transmission shaft is externally provided with a transmission shaft housing, the rear main gear is externally provided with a rear housing, a front end of the transmission shaft housing is engaged with the front housing, a rear end of the transmission shaft housing is engaged with the rear housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2019
    Assignee: NINGBO JULONG MACHINERY CO., LTD
    Inventors: Liyong Xu, Pengxiang Xie
  • Patent number: 10183722
    Abstract: Various examples are provided for adaption of a front fork of a motorcycle. In one example, an adapter includes a slot extending inward from a proximal end of the adapter; axle openings on opposite sides of the adapter; and access openings extending inward from a distal end of the adapter to the slot. The slot can be configured to align with an end of a fork leg assembly of a motorcycle and the axle openings can be configured to align with an axle channel of the fork leg assembly. The access openings can provide access to fasteners of the fork leg assembly. In another example, a method includes positioning an adapter on the end of the fork leg assembly, inserting an axle into an axle channel through axle openings of the adapter, and securing the end cap onto the axle using fasteners accessible through openings of the adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2019
    Inventors: Misty Michelle McNeeley, Dennis Eugene McNeeley
  • Patent number: 10155567
    Abstract: A bicycle shifting control apparatus comprises a sensing target, a rotational-position sensing unit, and a transmission controller. The sensing target is rotatable with a sprocket assembly. The rotational-position sensing unit is configured to contact the sensing target to sense a rotational position of the sensing target as the rotational position of the sprocket assembly. The transmission controller is configured to control a derailleur based on the rotational position sensed by the rotational-position sensing unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2018
    Assignee: SHIMANO INC.
    Inventor: Kota Sato
  • Patent number: 10106221
    Abstract: A bicycle frame assembly having a number of rotatable members configured to absorb shocks and impacts associated with operation of the bicycle. The assembly includes a frame constructed to support a rider and a chain stay having a rearward end that extends toward a wheel hub and a forward end that is pivotably connected to the frame. An absorber is pivotably connected to the forward end of the chain stay and extends to a rocker arm that is pivotably connected to the frame. A seat stay is pivotably connected to a rearward end of the rocker arm and extends to the rearward end of the chain stay. The rearward ends of the seat stay and the chain stay are pivotably connected to rotate about a common axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2018
    Assignee: Trek Bicycle Corporation
    Inventors: James Colegrove, Dylan Howes, Jose Gonzalez, Michael Hammond
  • Patent number: 9944347
    Abstract: A pivotable chainring assembly for a bicycle includes a chainring and a carrier. The carrier includes an annular bearing and a pivot attachment portion. The annular bearing includes an inner race and an outer race. The outer race of the annular bearing is rotatable about a crank axis. The chainring is physically connected to and rotatably fixed relative to the outer race of the annular bearing. The inner race of the annular bearing is physically connected to and rotationally fixed relative to the pivot attachment portion. The pivot attachment portion has a pivot axis disposed a distance from the crank axis. The chainring is rotatable about the crank axis and rotatable about the pivot axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2018
    Assignee: SRAM, LLC
    Inventor: James Cooke
  • Patent number: 9708026
    Abstract: A bicycle frame having a replaceable flexible down tube assembly, wherein the down tube assembly includes a resilient arcuate down tube member with connectors in the form of releasable mounting clips removably attached to the ends of down tube member. The clips clamp on transverse mounting pins in stems attached to the bicycle frame at the ends of the down tube assembly. The clips are releasable to remove the down tube assembly from the frame for replacement or substitution of a down tube having different performance or appearance characteristics. The clips are removable from the down tube for separate replacement of clips and the down tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2017
    Assignee: Alter Cycles, Ltd.
    Inventor: Mark L. Groendal
  • Patent number: 9409620
    Abstract: A bicycle having a drive-shaft connecting a crank to an internal hub gearbox on a rear wheel. The bicycle having a suspension system and a cantilevered rear stay that connects the rear wheel to the frame and maintains the hub in a relative radial distance from the crank to maintain contact of the drive-shaft with the crank and gearbox. The suspension system having a linearly moveable damping device disposed within the frame. A swing arm pivotally extends from the rear stay to the damping device. The pivotal connection of the rear stay to the frame, the linear connection of the damping device to the frame, and the pivotal connection of the swing-arm to both the rear stay and damping device provide a four-bar sliding mechanism to provide suspension for the rear wheel on the bicycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2016
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: William Paul Perkins
  • Patent number: 9346517
    Abstract: The automatic and manual electrical gear shifting apparatus includes a manual electrical gear shifting unit, for detecting a driving status and transmitting a sensing signal; a control unit, coupled to the sensing unit and the manual electrical gear shifting unit, and also coupled to a driving shift device and a mid-power motor, and a shift correction unit being coupled between the driving shift device and the control unit. The control unit resets the driving shift device to a start shift when the electric vehicle stops and if the transmission of an electric vehicle is an internal transmission. If the transmission of the electric vehicle is an external transmission and the shift of the driving shift device is set to a high gear, the control unit automatically increases the electrically assisted power of the electric vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2016
    Assignee: National Cheng Kung University
    Inventor: Sen-Yung Lee
  • Patent number: 9308961
    Abstract: The present invention provides a bicycle that includes a frame that is specifically design to accommodate different axle configurations. The bicycle includes a wheel including a wheel axle and a bicycle frame comprising a wheel support including an axle opening having a first width and an axle slot contiguous with the axle opening and having a second width less than the first width. Preferably, a portion of the wheel axle positioned in the axle opening has a diameter that substantially matches the first width. The present invention also provides a method of changing an original wheel of a bicycle. The method comprises removing the original wheel from the wheel support, positioning a converter in the axle opening, providing a replacement wheel having a replacement hub that has a replacement axle, and sliding the replacement axle through the axle slot and into the receiving area defined by the converter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2016
    Assignee: SPECIALIZED BICYCLE COMPONENTS, INC.
    Inventors: Jason S. McDonald, Jeremy Thompson
  • Patent number: 9301685
    Abstract: In accordance with an embodiment, a notification apparatus comprises a detection module and a notification module. The detection module detects a predetermined operation confirmation sound from a medical instrument. The notification module sends a notification to a predetermined terminal in response to the detection of the operation confirmation sound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: Toshiba Tec Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Mina Kodama
  • Patent number: 9180930
    Abstract: A transmission unit includes a planetary gearing system including a ring gear connected to a bicycle frame, a planet carrier with planet gears, and at least one sun gear that is engaged with the planet gears. A rear wheel shaft is coaxial with respect to the sun gear. A driving mechanism is operatively rotationally engaged with the planet carrier. At least one bearing is configured to bear the rear wheel shaft with respect to the bicycle frame and is arranged between the planetary gearing system and a seat of the rear wheel from an axial perspective. The bearing bears the rear wheel shaft inside from a radial perspective and is connected, either directly or indirectly, to the bicycle frame, externally from a radial perspective. The transmission unit provides at least one transmission ratio between a driving mechanism and the rear wheel shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2015
    Inventor: Karsten Bettin
  • Patent number: 9168968
    Abstract: A detachable top tube assembly includes inner and outer tube members telescopically received by one another. Each inner and outer tube member includes one or more of an elliptical cross-sectional shape or is arced along a longitudinal axis thereof to prevent rotation of the inner and outer tube members relative to one another. Each of a pair of yoke assemblies is disposed at opposite ends of the inner and outer tube members and include a rotatable gate assembly for opening and closing the yoke assemblies. A pair of spring biased members is provided for engagement with the rotatable gate assemblies to maintain the gate assemblies in a closed position. A pair of button covers is provided for depressably engaging each spring biased member so to allow the gate assemblies to be rotated relative to a respective inner and outer tube member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2015
    Assignee: THULE SWEDEN AB
    Inventors: Mitchell P. Pomerantz, James T. Stevens, Joseph R. Flaherty
  • Patent number: 9056651
    Abstract: A bicycle control device includes a base member, an operating member, a detecting member and a switching member. The operating member is movably mounted relative to the base member along an operating path. The detecting member detects operation of the operating member. The switching member is electrically connected to the detecting member so that the detecting member is switched from a power-off state to a power-on state in response to operation of the operating member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2015
    Assignee: Shimano Inc.
    Inventor: Toshio Tetsuka
  • Publication number: 20150130160
    Abstract: An amusement vehicle with rowing-type auxiliary device mainly comprises a rotating apparatus pivotally disposed on the chassis and a controlling apparatus disposed on both sides of a seat of the chassis. The controlling apparatus comprises two controlling wheels pivoted on the chassis, a pair of transmission assemblages disposed on the chassis to drive the controlling wheel, and two controlling bars disposed to drive the transmission assemblages respectively. Each transmission assemblage includes a unidirectional device disposed on a driving gear which is connected to the controlling wheel. By using hands to cause a reciprocating movement of the controlling bars, the transmission assemblage drives the controlling wheels to rotate in one direction and move forwards. The rotating apparatus is controlled by stepping feet on to decide the moving direction. Therefore, users use hands and feet to obtain a self-propelling sliding motion, thereby increasing the exercise and amusement of the use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2013
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Applicant: HUIZHOU HUAER WANTONG INDUSTRY CO.,LTD.
    Inventors: JI LI, SHERN-JI TSAY
  • Patent number: 8991846
    Abstract: The present invention reduces or eliminates suspension induced lower portion chain grow for rear derailer equipped bicycle drive trains using a pivoting mount for the common chain guide pulley. Attached about or near concentric with the chain ring and bottom bracket this mounting plate has a pivotally connected link to the suspension. The chain guide pulley is positioned to “take-up” or store some lower portion of chain length around the chain ring. Suspension activation creates pivotal movement of the guide mounting plate to relieve suspension induced chain grow by releasing some or the entire taken-up length of the lower portion of the drive chain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Inventor: Eric Raymond Twers
  • Patent number: 8991845
    Abstract: Vehicular system, including front wheel having user-interface assembly configured to selectively permit user to operate between limb-operating mode and side-by-side limb cruising mode. In side-by-side limb cruising mode, first and second crank arms are free to float and position by themselves while front wheel is steered to cause vehicular system to turn in such a way that first pedal and second pedal are positioned slightly offset from each other. In side-by-side limb cruising mode, control of vehicular system is improved because rider position is more balanced and an unnatural sensation of steering involving hands and feet becomes neutralized while: user maintains hands coupled to steering assembly and also maintains feet coupled to first pedal and second pedal; steering assembly turns front wheel toward one side; first crank arm and second crank arm freely float and position themselves; and first pedal and second pedal are positioned slightly offset from each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Inventor: Henry Chong
  • Publication number: 20150008059
    Abstract: The invention relates to a drive device (1) for a bicycle. The drive device (1) comprises a central housing (4), to which at least one swingarm (5, 6) is attached laterally which serves to hold a wheel (27) that is arranged such that it can rotate about a rotational axis (25). The at least one swingarm (5, 6) serves to receive at least one drive means (7, 8, 17, 18, 19).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2013
    Publication date: January 8, 2015
    Inventors: Philip Douglas, Horst Gusterhuber
  • Patent number: 8925948
    Abstract: A bicycle bottom bracket assembly that reduces the accumulation of dirt and/or corrosive substances inside the shaft extending between the crank arms of the assembly. The bottom bracket assembly includes a shaft having a through-cavity that extends along its longitudinal direction; a crank arm is associated with each end portion of the shaft, and the through-cavity extends unobstructed through the crank arms and the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Campagnolo S.r.l.
    Inventors: Giuseppe Dal Prà, Nicola Sgreva
  • Publication number: 20140319798
    Abstract: A pedaled vehicle includes a frame having a crank for receiving a power input from a rider, a wheel rotatably coupled to the frame, and a drive system. The drive system includes a first sprocket operatively coupled to the crank, a second sprocket operatively coupled to the wheel, and a power transmitting element operatively coupled to the first and second sprockets for transmitting the power input from the rider at the crank to the wheel for moving the pedaled vehicle. The power transmitting element forms a closed-loop configuration and is arranged relative to the frame such that the power transmitting element is configured to be assembled to the vehicle or replaced on the vehicle without having to break the closed-loop configuration of the power transmitting element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2014
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Applicant: HUFFY CORPORATION
    Inventor: Jason Jewell
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20140284897
    Abstract: A transmission unit includes a planetary gearing system including a ring gear connected to a bicycle frame, a planet carrier with planet gears, and at least one sun gear that is engaged with the planet gears. A rear wheel shaft is coaxial with respect to the sun gear. A driving mechanism is operatively rotationally engaged with the planet carrier. At least one bearing is configured to bear the rear wheel shaft with respect to the bicycle frame and is arranged between the planetary gearing system and a seat of the rear wheel from an axial perspective. The bearing bears the rear wheel shaft inside from a radial perspective and is connected, either directly or indirectly, to the bicycle frame, externally from a radial perspective. The transmission unit provides at least one transmission ratio between a driving mechanism and the rear wheel shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2012
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Inventor: Karsten Bettin
  • Publication number: 20140265213
    Abstract: The present invention is provided with a manual input device capable of bidirectional inputting, the output end thereof is served to output to the input end of a bidirectional input unidirectional output transmission device, the output end of the bidirectional input unidirectional output transmission device performs output in a constant rotating direction, so a loading wheel set can be driven through an engaging or releasing operational clutch device (70), and when the loading wheel set performs reverse driving in the opposite rotating direction for the purpose of reverse linking, the load is released by the engaging or releasing operational clutch device (70), thereby preventing the transmission wheel system of the bidirectional input unidirectional output driven vehicle having clutch device at load end from being locked.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventor: Tai-Her Yang
  • Publication number: 20140265217
    Abstract: A novel transmission for cycles that significantly reduces torque interference with steering operations is provided. Such a transmission allows for improved recumbent cycling capabilities. The inventive device thus includes a combination of a fixed transmission assembly that reduces torque levels and a movable transmission assembly that multiplies torque levels, allowing for the avoidance of high torque effects through the vehicle's steering axis. As such, the capability of the overall cycle device to steer properly and to a rather wide angle from center while implementing such a torque transfer protocol allows for a unique recumbent cycle configuration. Such a device, then, may be utilized for a human-powered cycle vehicle or one that further includes an electrical component to allow for automated drive capabilities through a rear wheel or wheels, as well. The method of implementation of such a transmission within a variety of cycle devices is also encompassed within this invention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventor: Thomas Andrew Payne
  • Patent number: 8768585
    Abstract: A shift control system working with a power-assisted bicycle that has an assisting-power supplying system and a derailleur. The shift control system includes a microcomputer in which plural shifting condition tables are stored. The assisting-power supplying system provides at least two different assisting modes. The shift control system also includes a shifting driver and at least one sensor for sensing at least one of a wheel speed, a crank speed, a pedaling force and a road gradient so as to generate at least one sensing signal and obtain at least one sensing result. The microcomputer selects one of the shifting condition tables in accordance with the current assisting mode for comparing the sensing result, thereby determining whether upshifting or downshifting is to be conducted. Then the microcomputer controls the shifting driver to send a shift control signal to make the derailleur upshift or downshift.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: J.D. Components Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chi-Chang Cheng
  • Patent number: 8645032
    Abstract: A method for electronically controlling a bicycle gearshift by detecting a first actual command value of an actuator such as to position a motion transmission chain in engagement with a first of at least three coaxial toothed wheels, and a second actual command value of the actuator such as to position the chain in engagement with a second of said toothed wheels. For each toothed wheel, there is determined a nominal command value of the actuator theoretically such as to position the chain in engagement with said toothed wheel. Computing an actual command value of said actuator at least for each of said toothed wheels other than the first and second toothed wheel, based on said nominal command values and on said first and second actual command value. An electronically servo-assisted bicycle gearshift having modules adapted to implement the above method is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Campagnolo S.R.L.
    Inventors: Paolo Pasqua, Alberto Bortoli
  • Publication number: 20130299258
    Abstract: A method of using a folding vehicle having a chassis that functions as a protective, carry-on casing is provided. The vehicle has a chassis with a center member, a rotatably-lockable front strut, a rotatably-lockable rear strut, and two pivot points for converting the vehicle from an operational state to a collapsed state; and, a drive member with a crankshaft. The crankshaft and the rotatably-lockable front strut pivot share a central axis of rotation; and, the releasably-lockable front strut and the releasably-lockable rear strut are configured to fold into a complementary relationship in the interior of the channel in the collapsed state. The channel functions as a protective, carry-on case for the folding vehicle in the collapsed state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2013
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Inventor: JON P. MOLDESTAD
  • Patent number: 8534691
    Abstract: Derailleur mounts for use in bicycles. The derailleur mount comprises an elastic element having a functional state and a collapsed state. The elastic element is configured for reducing at least some of an impact force of at least 300 Newton (N) applied on the bicycle by switching from the functional state to the collapsed state. The elastic element is configured for reverting from the collapsed state to the functional state after the impact force is removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Inventor: Alon Schaffer
  • Patent number: 8505947
    Abstract: Methods, apparatus, and kits for converting multiple speed bicycles to single speed are disclosed. The methods include removing a cassette of gears from the hub of a bicycle gear and installing a single gear between two clamps that are releasably secured to the hub. In some embodiments, the clamps may be split-ring clamps with ends that are connected by a fastener. Kits according to embodiments of the invention may include a gear and one or more clamps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Inventor: Christopher L. Burdick
  • Publication number: 20130092465
    Abstract: A folding vehicle having a chassis that functions as a protective, carry-on casing is provided. The vehicle has a chassis with a center member, a rotatably-lockable front strut, a rotatably-lockable rear strut, and two pivot points for converting the vehicle from an operational state to a collapsed state; and, a drive member with a crankshaft. The crankshaft and the rotatably-lockable front strut pivot share a central axis of rotation; and, the releasably-lockable front strut and the releasably-lockable rear strut are configured to fold into a complementary relationship in the interior of the channel in the collapsed state. The channel functions as a protective, carry-on case for the folding vehicle in the collapsed state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2012
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Applicant: MDM Productivity, LLC
    Inventor: MDM Productivity, LLC
  • Patent number: 8414006
    Abstract: A bicycle device with an internal drivetrain that eliminates any external mechanical drivetrain components. An internal drive gear is driven by user pedal input, which provides torque and rotation to a plurality of gear rods, connecting rods and disk gears. Gear ratio and speed choice is controlled by the drive gear and a first disk gear, which incorporate a variable gear pitch moving radially outward for which to mate with the gear rods. The drivetrain terminates at a hubless rear wheel, which rotates a tire tread around a stationary hub. Controls for the bicycle are provided in a handle bar stem device that manipulate the position of the gear rods and brake calipers. The front and rear wheel are separable from the central frame of the device for storage and transport. Overall, the present invention provides a sleek, modern upgrade to the traditional bicycle device, and incorporates several features that improve its design.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Inventor: Nanh Souvanny
  • Publication number: 20130043666
    Abstract: An adult scale three-wheeled device facilitates movement for mobility challenged persons. The device is foot propelled while seated either through walking while seated or pedaling. The device is provided with a limited footprint for navigating confined areas while the individual is seated in a substantially standing position, with the pedals being repositionable so as to allow unobstructed walking while remaining seated. A lockable braking system prevents one or more wheels from turning. The device is collapsible for storage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2012
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Inventor: Thomas Raphael
  • Publication number: 20130015009
    Abstract: A combination structure of bicycle frame and motor hub includes a bicycle frame, a motor hub, and an elongated axle. One can extend, from one side of the bicycle frame, the elongated axle through a through hole of the bicycle frame and the motor hub, and then with one hand, a tail end of the elongated axle can be fastened into an internal thread hole of the bicycle frame. This will facilitate assembly of the components of the motor hub and the bicycle frame. Besides, when screwing or unscrewing the elongated axle, since the elongated axle has passed through the through hole and the internal thread hole opposing each other at the bicycle frame, the motor hub will not fall accidentally, and convenience can be assured for maintenance staff during proceeding of maintenance work.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2011
    Publication date: January 17, 2013
    Applicants: Mystromer AG, Fairly Bike Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Sheng Shan LIN, Yu Chi Yu