Abstract: A control device for a human-powered vehicle including a motor that applies a propulsion force to the human-powered vehicle, a crank axle, a driving wheel, and a transmission that automatically changes a transmission ratio of a rotational speed of the driving wheel to a rotational speed of the crank axle in accordance with a travel state of the human-powered vehicle. The control device includes an electronic controller that controls the motor in accordance with a human driving force input to the crank axle. The controller changes an assist state related to at least one of an assist ratio of an assist force by the motor to a predetermined human driving force and the assist force by the motor in accordance with the human driving force and controls the transmission to maintain the transmission ratio upon determining a parameter related to the human driving force satisfies a predetermined condition.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a bicycle handlebar support, which is suitable in particular for time trial or triathlon bicycles and has a central holding element which in the fitted state points in the direction of travel. Furthermore, in addition to the holding element two arm supports are provided for the lower arms. According to the disclosure a common grip element is provided in a front region of the holding element for gripping jointly with both hands.

Abstract: The invention is a bicycle drive assembly and it generally includes a drive chain, a drive wheel including a hub, a frame including left and right chainstays, each having a raced bearing, a cassette assembly, and an axle assembly. The cassette assembly includes a body having an inner end rotatably mounted on the right chainstay bearing, an outer free end, and a cassette including a plurality of sprockets. Cooperative torque-transferring components transfer torque between cassette and body, body and axle, and axle and hub. A freewheel mechanism, as one of the cooperative torque-transferring components, allows the bicycle to coast. A drive axle is selectably movable axially between a riding position, wherein it is rotatably mounted on the chainstay bearings and supports and drives the wheel, and a release position wherein the wheel is removable.

Abstract: This invention relates to polygonal frame structures made from anisotropic materials, and methods for their construction. The polygonal frame structures include at least one frame member that is constructed as a torsion box. The torsion box is constructed with layers of anisotropic materials, resulting in a lightweight, torsionally stiff polygonal frame. Natural and/or man-made anisotropic materials may be used. Wood may be used as a natural anisotropic material. The invention is applicable to bicycles and other vehicles, as well as other products, where frame structures having light weight and torsional stiffness are advantageous.

Abstract: Disclosed is a recumbent bicycle configuration, structure and methods which allow effective hand power input using only components otherwise required to pedal and steer. Force and work based hand power methods are used. The effect is comparable to standing and pedaling a conventional bicycle. The configuration has front wheel drive and steering. The crankset is fork mounted on or near the steering axis. The fork has a double triangulated torque tube structure which is rigid from the hand grips to the crankshaft endpoints to torsional hand and foot forces in opposition. Pedal forces on steering are controlled by a hand over foot leverage ratio, and by use of trail, which is increasingly effective with speed. A fork mounted fairing can be used. For stability, the fairing aerodynamic center of presented area is ahead of the steering axis. Hand, foot and selective braking inputs are used for enhanced control.

Abstract: A chain tensioning device is adapted to be coupled to a vehicle body and to be adjacent to a chain, and includes a connecting segment, a metallic resilient segment, a fixing member and a guiding member. The connecting segment includes a securing portion adapted to be coupled to the vehicle body and an extending portion adapted to be under the chain. The resilient segment is connected to the extending portion of the connecting segment via the fixing member, and has a spring constant which ranges from 0.01 to 1000 N/mm, and a Young's modulus which ranges from 69 to 220 megapascals. The guiding member is connected to the resilient segment and is biased by the resilient segment for maintaining a tension of the chain.

Abstract: A multi-function racing type bicycle pedal includes a pedal body, a connecting seat and a shoe clip. The pedal body has a spindle, a fixed front and an elastic rear. An engaging surface is formed between the fixed front and the elastic rear for optionally connecting a cleat. A connecting platform is formed on an opposite side of the engaging surface and at a front side and a rear side of the spindle. The connecting platform has a locking hole. The connecting seat is a flat plate and has a through hole corresponding to the locking hole for being passed through by a screw so as to removably fasten the connecting seat onto the connecting platform. An exposed surface of the connecting seat is provided with an anti-slip pattern. The shoe clip is an arcuate body and removably disposed on the connecting seat.

Abstract: A control device is provided for a human-powered vehicle. The control device is basically provided with a controller. The controller is configured to be connected to at least one component of the human-powered vehicle such that the controller is free from executing normal activation of the at least one component in accordance to a first input in a first mode. The controller is configured to operate at least one of an actuator and an indicator in accordance to the first input in a second mode. The first mode is switched into the second mode in accordance to a second input different from the first input.

Abstract: A control device includes an electronic controller configured to control a transmission device of a human-powered vehicle in accordance with a shifting condition. The electronic controller is configured to change the shifting condition in accordance with a converging state of a first reference value that changes as the human-powered vehicle travels.

Abstract: A creation device includes an acquisition part that acquires input information concerning traveling of a human-powered vehicle; and a creation part that creates different learning models that each produce output information concerning control of a component of the human-powered vehicle based on input information acquired by the acquisition part.

Abstract: A self-shifting bicycle that shifts intelligently as a function of power output. The bicycle uses a computer control system mounted to the handlebar, a power meter attached to the front gearwheel, and an actuator module for adjusting the transmission. The computer control system software changes output gear ratio in accordance with load encountered as the cyclist rides. This allows the rider to set a preferred power output and to maintain that preferred power output very closely.

Abstract: Vehicle including a frame, a seat, a wheel, a drive sprocket arranged on the wheel, a main drive sprocket, a transmission member coupling the drive sprockets, a pedal slider arranged in front of the seat and which swings forward and rearward, and a drive mechanism including an overrunning clutch system connected to the main drive sprocket. A power link is connected at a first end region to the pedal slider and at a second end region to the clutch system. Forward movement of the pedal slider causes movement of the power link and rotation of the clutch system which causes movement of the main drive sprocket and the wheel drive sprocket resulting in rotation of the wheel. A roller is arranged on the frame to guide the power link in a substantially horizontal plane in a portion between the roller and the pedal slider.

Abstract: A gear change mechanism for a bicycle may involve a tensioner that has a wheel engaged with a chain in a bicycle drivetrain. This tensioner may be configured to rotate or otherwise change orientation in response to slack in the chain to maintain tension in the chain. A sensor may be used to measure the orientation of a tensioner of a chain in a bicycle drivetrain, and/or the physical orientation of components indicative thereof. Actions may be triggered by signals generated by the sensor.

Abstract: An auxiliary handle bar system includes a pair of handle bars, each secured beneath a bicycle handle bar.

Abstract: A chainring installation structure includes a crank, a spindle, and a swing assembly. The spindle includes a first rotational axis, and one end of the spindle is connected to the crank. The crank drives the spindle to cause the spindle to rotate about the first rotational axis. The swing assembly is disposed at one end of the spindle adjacent to the crank without contacting the crank. The swing assembly can shift axially relative to the spindle. The swing assembly includes a second rotational axis that crosses the first rotational axis, in which the swing assembly can rotate about the second rotational axis.

Abstract: A bicycle controller includes an electronic control unit that controls a transmission unit and a motor in accordance with a shift request that changes the transmission ratio. If the transmission ratio is changed in multiple steps in accordance with the shift request, then the electronic control unit selectively executes one of first and second shifting operations. In the first shifting operation, the output of the motor is limited and the transmission unit is operated to reach a requested transmission ratio that corresponds to the shift request. In the second shifting operation, the output of the motor is limited and the transmission unit is operated to reach an intermediate transmission ratio of the requested transmission ratio, and after the electronic control unit temporarily reduces the limitation on the output of the motor, the electronic control unit again limits the output of the motor and operates the transmission unit.

Abstract: Disclosed is an energy harvesting power-assist system and method for human powered light vehicles. The power-assist system comprises a drive mechanism, one or more motor/generators and a high capacity storage device. The system continuously harvests and stores energy which is converted to motion by the motors, providing additional power to the user's pedaling. A controller determines the amount of pedal assist based on a user's preset value, and manages the charge and discharge of the high capacity storage device. As such, the system does not require any other external energy source, and the storage device never needs external charging under the described usage cases.

Abstract: A human powered watercraft or land vehicle is described herein. A watercraft or land vehicle may have two pedals that reciprocated are in a linear or slightly curved trajectory but not a circular motion. As the two pedals are reciprocated, an output shaft is rotated in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction when the left pedal is pushed forward or when the right pedal is pushed forward. The output shaft may be connected to a propeller of a watercraft or a land vehicle so as to propel the watercraft or land vehicle forward. The output shaft may receive rotational input through two gears mounted to the output shaft with one-way bearings that enable the output shaft to rotate in the same direction regardless of whether the left pedal or the right pedal is being pushed forward.

Abstract: An electromechanical rear derailleur is provided for a bicycle, including a base member for attachment to the bicycle. A movable member has a cage assembly attached thereto. A linkage is provided that couples the movable member to the base member and operative to enable movement of the movable member relative to the base member in a direction substantially parallel to the mounting axis. A power source powers an motor module connected thereto to move the movable member.

Abstract: The control device is for controlling a transmission ratio between a traction means and a wheel set rotatable about a wheel axle and including at least two wheel blades alternatively wrapped around by the traction means. At least one of the wheel blades is composed of several independently adjustable wheel rim segments. The adjustment of the wheel rim segments in relation to a fixed plane (“plane of alignment”) in which the traction means wraps around the wheel set is effected by the control device in a direction substantially transverse to the plane of alignment. The control device includes at least one electrically actuatable control element, in particular a servomotor, provided that the at least one control element is arranged to rotate with the at least two wheel blades.

Abstract: A bicycle handlebar includes a top section, a first hook and second hook extending downward from each end of the tops section, and a first drop and a second drop extending rearward from an end, opposing the top section, of the first hook and second hook, respectively. The first width of the top section may be greater than a second width between each of the first drop and the second drop.

Abstract: A plank support exercise apparatus and related methods is provided. The plank support exercise apparatus has a hand grip and a frame member extending from the hand grip. At least one arm support pad is connected to the frame member, wherein a distance between the hand grip and the at least one arm support pad is adjustable. A ground-interface surface is positioned along at least a portion of the frame member.

Abstract: A two wheel tandem vehicle is propelled by hand-grasped poles. A front wheel on a forward member and a rear wheel on a rearward member align along a longitudinal axis. The forward member pivots about a substantially vertical steering axis. A saddle and footholds support the rider and together with an accessory contact means allow the rider to balance and steer the device. The rider's hands do not contact the vehicle but are used to propel the vehicle with the poles.

Abstract: Various techniques are provided to maintain drive belts at substantially constant tension over a wide range of conditions. In one embodiment, a system includes a housing, a bracket secured to the housing, first and second pulleys, and a belt engaged in tension with the first and second pulleys. The first and second pulleys are suspended from the housing through the bracket to reduce effects of thermal expansion of the housing on the belt tension. Other systems and related methods are also provided.

Abstract: A bicycle crank assembly includes a sprocket having a rotational center axis, a crank, a crank axle and a slide mechanism. The crank axle is attached to the crank and includes an internal space. The slide mechanism is configured to displace the sprocket relatively to the crank in an axial direction parallel to the rotational center axis. At least part of the slide mechanism is disposed in the internal space of the crank axle.

Abstract: A bicycle handlebar assembly including a stem extension and a handlebar cross member, a pair of steering bars affixed perpendicular to the handlebar cross member, and a pair of forearm supports affixed to the handlebar cross member in proximity with the steering bars. The gear shifting and brake controls are placed at the forward ends of the two steering bars. An embodiment of the invention would allow this handlebar assembly to be raised or lowered as the rider desires, to provide raised comfort position and a lowered aerodynamic position. The forearm supports and steering bars provide comfort and control to the rider not provided by typical handlebars. Alternatively the pair of steering bars could be replaced with a single closed steering bar circuit.

Abstract: A convertible bicycle has separable front and rear wheel units. The convertible bicycle can operate in individual or in tandem mode as a tricycle unit. The rear wheel unit has a vertical interlocking gear which can interface with a frontal interlocking gear of the frontal wheel unit. The front wheel unit of an auxiliary bicycle can be detached and the remaining rear wheel unit attached to the rear wheel unit of another bicycle in order to form a tandem tricycle.

Abstract: A prone bicycle comprising a frame (1), a front wheel (2), a rear wheel (3), a drive mechanism (4) for driving the rear wheel (3), and a pedal mechanism (5) for driving the drive mechanism (4), in which, the front wheel (2) and rear wheel (3) are mounted on the front portion and rear portion of the frame (1), wherein: a forearm support member (6) is mounted at the frame (1) front portion, and a dynamic knee support member (7) having synchronous movement with the pedal mechanism (5) is mounted between the pedal mechanism (5) and the frame (1). Designed with multi-point dynamic and static supports, this prone bicycle improves riding comfort and efficiency and is combined with crawling fitness function.

Abstract: A dual-drive prone bicycle comprises a frame (1), a front wheel (2), a rear wheel (3), a front drive component (4) and a rear drive component (5), wherein: the front wheel (2) and the rear wheel (3) are arranged at the front portion and rear portion of the frame (1); the rear drive component (5) comprises a rear wheel drive mechanism (51) for driving the rear wheel (3) and a treadle mechanism (52) for driving the rear wheel transmission mechanism (51); and a dynamic knee support member (53) having synchronous movement with the treadle mechanism (52) is provided between the treadle mechanism (52) and the frame (1). Designed with multi-point dynamic supports, this dual-drive prone bicycle improves riding comfort and efficiency and is combined with crawling fitness function.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a cardboard-based unit, structural elements comprising said unit and land-vehicles comprising said units and structural elements.

Abstract: A bicycle frame includes a seat tube and a top tube. A coupling device flexibly couples the top tube to the seat tube.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a cardboard-based unit, structural elements comprising said unit and land-vehicles comprising said units and structural elements.

Abstract: A composite bicycle frame which comprises of a main frame including interconnected tubes and substantially composed of a composite material and having a composite layup structure. At least one electric wire electrically interconnects electrical components mounted to or in the frame. The at least one electric wire is embedded in the composite material structure forming the composite main frame. The electric wire has connectable conductive ends at each of the opposed ends thereof.

Abstract: A system includes a computer in a bicycle, and the computer has a processor and a memory. The computer is programmed to determine user characteristics for a user of the bicycle, with the user characteristics including pedaling force and pedaling cadence; calculate a power contribution at least in part according to the user characteristics; select one or more operational parameters for a bicycle motor according to the power contribution; and apply the operational parameters to operation of the bicycle motor.

Abstract: An exercise machine comprises a resistance device and a power supplier. The resistance device provides a resistance and comprises an axle. The power supplier comprises one or more conducting rings arranged at a side or respectively arranged at a side of the resistance device. The conducting rings are coaxially coupled with the axle and are capable of rotating about the axle.

Abstract: A passenger vehicle for carrying a golf bag includes first and second front wheels and a rear wheel, a frame that may be folded into a compact position, gearing, and a steering mechanism. The frame includes a cross bar extending between the first and second front wheels, first and second front bars connected to a rear bar at a hinged connection, and a down tube connected to the cross bar, wherein the rear bar includes a receiving mechanism for releaseably receiving the down tube. The gearing includes a cassette secured to an axle extending through the cross bar. A steering mechanism for providing directionality includes a steering member within the rear bar. A first golf bag support is connected to the first and second front bars and a second golf bag support is connected to the cross bar.

Abstract: The present invention refers to a bicycle gearshift with improved precision control, comprising a kinematic mechanism in the form of a four-bar linkage with a base body and a mobile body connected together through a pair of connecting rods articulated to the base body and to the mobile body at four pin elements, each pair of opposite pin elements of the four pin elements defining a diagonal of the four-bar linkage kinematic mechanism, and a first attachment group of the base body to a bicycle frame, the mobile body being connected to a chain guide at a second attachment group, the four-bar linkage kinematic mechanism being associated with gearshift actuation means suitable for deforming the four-bar linkage kinematic mechanism so as to determine a displacement of the mobile body with respect to the base body and consequently a primary displacement of the chain guide in the axial direction with respect to the axis (A) of a cogset, and it is characterised in that the first attachment group comprises a kinematic

Abstract: A foldable riding vehicle includes a frame having a front end and a rear end pivotally connected together. The front end is connected to a steering mechanism which includes a steering handle and which engages with a front wheel. The rear end has a first distal end pivotally connected to the front end and a second distal end engaging with a rear wheel. A seat support has a first end pivotally connected to the rear end of the frame and a second end supporting a seat. A pedal mechanism is movable between use and stowed positions. The foldable riding vehicle, in a folded position, includes the steering handle located symmetrically with respect to the frame and the pedal mechanism moving to the stowed position, and allows the front wheel to be located above the rear wheel and not to abut a surface, and the rear wheel to rotate on the surface.

Abstract: A bicycle frame that has a head tube that is adapted to support a handle bar, a top tube that is coupled to the head tube, a bottom tube that is coupled to the head tube, and a seat tube segment that is adapted to support a seat. The seat tube segment extends from the top tube and is spaced from the bottom tube.

Abstract: A bicycle front derailleur includes a mounting member, a chain guide, and a linkage assembly that pivotally couples the mounting member to the chain guide. The mounting member is configured to be mounted to a first frame member of a bicycle frame. The first frame member is pivotally connected to a second frame member of the bicycle frame about a pivot axis. The mounting member includes an attachment portion through which a fixing bolt for fixing the mounting member to the first frame member passes and includes an abutment configured to restrict rotation of the mounting member around the fixing bolt. The attachment portion is located on a front side of the pivot axis when the mounting member is mounted to the first frame member. The bicycle frame includes a structure for engaging and supporting the mounting member.

Abstract: A bicycle derailleur has a base member, a movable member, a first link member and a second link member. The movable member is movable with respect to the base member between a retracted position and an extended position. The first link member includes a first connecting portion pivotally coupled to the movable member about a first pivot axis. The first link member is pivotally coupled to the base member about a second pivot axis. The second link member is pivotally coupled to the movable member about a third pivot axis. The second link member is pivotally coupled to the base member about a fourth pivot axis. The first connecting portion at least partially overlaps with the second link member as viewed in a direction parallel to the first pivot axis in a state in which the movable member is disposed at one of the retracted and extended positions.

Abstract: Bicycle pedal with safety fixing comprising a pedal body (1) rotatably mounted on an axle (2) and, on one face of the pedal body, a mechanism (A) for attachment of a cleat adapted to be fixed to the bottom of a shoe, this mechanism comprising first attachment means (3) and second attachment means (4) situated on either side of the axle of the pedal, one of the attachment means consisting of a hoop (5) that is virtually fixed relative to the pedal body while the other attachment means (3) are mobile and can be moved against a return spring in a direction substantially orthogonal to the axle of the pedal to clamp the cleat or release it the hoop (5) has a lug (6a, 6b) at each of its two ends, each lug having passed through it and being supported by at least one spring axle (7a, 7b) mounted in the pedal body, which spring axle also supports is the mobile attachment means (3).

Abstract: A mounting device for mounting a front derailleur to a bicycle frame. The mounting device includes a mounting portion that is adapted to be adjustably mounted such that it is positioned around an axis that is defined by a bottom bracket of the bicycle frame, and an indicator configured to indicate an orientation of the mounting portion relative to a predetermined direction.

Abstract: The present invention provides a two wheel vehicle structure, including: a vehicle frame and a multi-ratio transmission system. The vehicle frame has two wheels and an input tubular member. A crank is attached at each end of the input tubular member. The multi-ratio transmission system includes: a multi-ratio transmission device, a first sprocket, a second sprocket and a chain. The multi-ratio transmission device is installed inside the input tubular member and located at a rotation center of the cranks. The second sprocket is coaxially installed on a wheel axle of a driving wheel. The chain is engaged with the first sprocket and the second sprocket. When the cranks rotate, the first sprocket also rotates in synchronization therewith. The rotational motion generated is transmitted to the multi-ratio transmission device and at the same time transmitted to the second sprocket through the chain, thereby propelling the driving wheel to rotate.

Abstract: The teachings provided herein are generally directed to compact vehicle drive mechanisms that can be used in the design of a foldable, carry-on vehicle. The compact drive mechanisms presented herein, for example, have contributed to the advent of the compact, carry-on bicycles set-forth in the teachings which include drive-and-steering units and drive-and-chassis units.

Abstract: The invention provides a wireless control system for a bicycle, including at least one shift actuator generating an input signal when actuated and a master control unit transmitting a shift signal responsive to the input signal. At least one electromechanical gear changer is provided and includes a gear changer control unit. The gear changer control unit receives the shift signal from the master control unit and controls the at least one electromechanical gear changer corresponding to the received shift signal. The gear changer control unit listens for the shift signal during a part of an awake mode cycle time, the master control unit transmitting the shift signal for a message duration time which is greater than the awake mode cycle time.

Abstract: Electronic shifting systems, mechanisms and methods of using the systems to operate a bicycle that allows front and rear gear changer mechanisms to be controlled with only two switches. The switches can be arranged so that each hand is only required to operate one switch to shift the bicycle.

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.

Abstract: A human-propulsion-system utilizing an arm lever assembly and or a pedal assembly to be adapted to or incorporated into other mechanisms including, but not limited to, wheelchairs and vehicles. The arm lever assembly is reciprocated to provide power and rotated left or right to provide a means of (steering) control. Both the arm lever assembly and the pedal assembly are operatively connected to a converter, utilizing gears and one-way clutches, that receives the reciprocal movements of the arm lever assembly and the rotational movements of the pedal assembly and converts them into a unidirectional output, to be utilized in combination or independently. The arm lever assembly is further telescoping and offers a range of various leverages by changing the length of the force end when extended and retracted.

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.