Belt Or Chain Patents (Class 280/261)
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Patent number: 5102155Abstract: A bicycle includes a speed-increasing mechanism interposed between the driving sprocket and the driven sprocket. The speed-increasing mechanism includes a small intermediate sprocket mounted rotatably on the frame of the bicycle, a first chain trained on the driving sprocket and the small intermediate sprocket, a large intermediate sprocket connected securely and coaxially to the small intermediate sprocket, and a second chain trained on the large intermediate sprocket and the driven sprocket. The radius of the small intermediate sprocket is smaller than that of the driving sprocket, while the radius of the large intermediate sprocket is greater than that of the driven sprocket.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 1991Date of Patent: April 7, 1992Inventor: Ta-Chin Chou
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Patent number: 5069469Abstract: Recumbent cycle (12) is supported by a pair of forward steerable wheels (16) and a single rear drivewheel (18) mounted on rear end portion of a frame structure (14) by a hub assembly (50) having an integral transmission and brake. A pair of side-mounted gimbal assemblies (170L, 170R) may be conveniently tilted laterally to steer wheels (16) in the same corresponding direction. The gimbal assemblies (170L, 170R) may be individually or in unison tilted in the forward direction to actuate the brake of hub assembly (50). Frame structure (14) includes a forward beam (34) telescopically engaged within a main beam (32) to vary the distance between a crank assembly (28) and a seat (20) to accommodate riders of different sizes.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 1987Date of Patent: December 3, 1991Assignee: H.P.E. CorporationInventors: Brent L. Rosengrant, Glen T. Poss, Malcolm M. Maccabee
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Patent number: 5064212Abstract: A bicycle which comprises a triangular frame, a front fork including a vectorial angle of 90.degree., the length of the upper portion of the front fork being longer than that of the lower portion of the front fork, wherein the vertical arm extending from the lower portion end thereof, and a W-shaped configured rear fork which has a pair of vectorial angles of 90.degree., the lengths of the upper and lower portions of the rear fork being shorter than those of the upper and lower middle portions of the rear fork, whereby the bicycle is accelerated in the forward moving speed by the bicycle rider.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 1990Date of Patent: November 12, 1991Inventor: Jae Shin Yun
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Patent number: 5054801Abstract: A belt drive for bicycles with a drive pulley rotated by the pedals of the bicycle and a driven pulley for driving the rear wheels of the bicycle. A V-belt connects the pulleys. Each pulley is made in sections with each section being an arc of a circle. These sections in collapsed position form a circle. The sections of each pulley may be moved outward to provide a larger diameter. A plate rotates in frictional contact with each pulley. To change the gear ratio a brake is applied against the friction plate to cause relative motion between the pulley and the complimentary friction plate.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 1990Date of Patent: October 8, 1991Inventor: Lowell L. Maguire
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Patent number: 5004258Abstract: A dual driven cycle and a kit for converting conventional, single driven cycles into dual driven cycles are disclosed. The invention is suitable for accommodating bicycles, motorcyles, dirt bikes, and other conventional cycles. These cycles have the known elements of a pedal-gear-chain driven first wheel and a non-driven second wheel. The kit comprises four general elements. First, a sprocket is connectable in fixed relation to the non-driven second wheel for conjoint movement with that wheel. Second, to receive power from the conventional drive train, a drive gear is mounted on either the pedal gear or chain of the cycle. Third, a cable gear is provided for mounting with respect to the cycle's frame and meshing with the sprocket. This cable gear drives the sprocket and, of necessity, the cycle's previously non-driven second wheel. The final general element of the kit is a rotatable cable which connects the cable gear to the drive gear and transfers the rotational motion of the drive gear to the second wheel.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 1989Date of Patent: April 2, 1991Inventor: Billie J. Becoat
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Patent number: 5000469Abstract: A bicycle handlebar that connects to a steering post foreward of the bicycle seat has an adjustable support pad assembly for the rider on which to support his body at his forearms or elbows including a support member having a top side and a bottom side, of which the top side is adapted with cushioning to accommodate the rider's forearm or elbow in support thereof and clamped to the bicycle handlebar by a clamp assembly at said bottom side of said support member. The clamp assembly has a clamp band, a nut member within said band, a bolt member that engages said nut member and a hood member that spaces the band member from said bottom of the support member so that the support pad assembly is attachable to said handlebar and is adjustable thereon in two degrees of translational freedom and two degrees of rotational freedom.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 1989Date of Patent: March 19, 1991Inventor: Cedric J. Smith
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Patent number: 4995627Abstract: A bicycle which comprises a triangular frame, a front fork including a bent portion with an vectorial angle of 90.degree., wherein the length of the upper portion of the front fork being longer than that of a lower portion of the front fork, and a vertical arm extends from the lower portion end thereof, and a rear fork which has bent portion with a vectorial angle of 90.degree., wherein the length of the upper portion of the rear fork is shorter than that of the lower portion of the rear fork, whereby the bicycle is accelerated the forward moving speed by the bicycle rider.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 1990Date of Patent: February 26, 1991Inventor: Jae S. Yun
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Patent number: 4993733Abstract: A three wheel recumbent vehicle having the steering pivot point of the front axle tilted forwardly about 8.degree. from perpendicular, causing the vehicle from the pivot point back to lean into a turn, and also having the front axle bar constructed with a low center section and end members which radiate upwardly and backwardly to provide room for the user's feet and to add stability on turns by increasing the distance between the center line of the vehicle and the point where the outboard tire touches the road.Type: GrantFiled: February 21, 1989Date of Patent: February 19, 1991Inventor: Keith Eilers
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Patent number: 4966381Abstract: A tricycle including a generally horizontal perimeter frame supported above the ground by a pair of rear wheels and a steerable front wheel. The perimeter frame is continuous along one side and front and back while having an opening in the opposite side just ahead of the rear wheel serving as a pass-thru for ease of entry and egress with regard to a seat positioned generally between the rear wheels. An openable gate may be provided which fits into the opening and renders this side of the frame continuous. The device is propelled by foot rotation of a forwardly positioned foot crank which is held for rotation along a generally horizontal axis between the sides of the frame. A chain gear is connected at one end of the foot crank which driveably engages an endless chain positioned in elongated fashion along one side of the frame. The chain then driveably engages a second chain gear connected to one rear wheel.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 1989Date of Patent: October 30, 1990Inventor: Roger H. Feikema
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Patent number: 4951525Abstract: Cycle handlebars include a transverse element which can be connected centrally to a steering pillar and has two side extensions which extend forwardly and converge inwardly of the handlebars. Two further extensions extend upwardly from the side extensions and are connectd by a further transverse element. The handlebars, which preferably have a generally loop-like configuration, thus provide at least four different gripping portions.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 1989Date of Patent: August 28, 1990Assignee: 3T S.p.A.Inventor: Lucio Borromeo
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Patent number: 4936597Abstract: An enclosed multiple speed drive for a tandem bicycle locates the pedal drive shaft for the rear rider on the axis of the rear wheel. The drive features a chain case which replaces the chain stay on the right side of the bicycle and an improved ten speed planetary transmission housed within a gear case inside the rear wheel hub. The chain case is press fit on a steel tube rotatably mounted in the bottom bracket, and a chain case cover on the right side, and a sun gear carrier on the left side, are clamped in the rear dropouts with over center quick releases. To change the rear tire, the chain case cover and the sun gear carrier are released from the dropouts and the chain case is rotated about the axis of the bottom bracket to swing the wheel clear of the frame. The tire can then be peeled off the rim from the left side and replaced without removing the wheel from the gear case or disturbing any of the drive train components.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 1989Date of Patent: June 26, 1990Inventor: Dirck T. Hartmann
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Patent number: 4930798Abstract: A bicycle handle assembly comprises a pair of side clamps provided on a handle post, and a pair of half handle bars respectively supported by the side clamps. Each half handle bar includes a straight mounting portion extending longitudinally of the bicycle, a rest portion extending laterally outward from the mounting portion, a main grip portion provided on the rest portion at a position spaced laterally from the mounting portion, and an auxiliary grip portion disposed ahead of the rest portion and the main grip portion. The mounting portion is held by a corresponding side clamp but adjustable in position relative thereto longitudinally of the bicycle.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 1988Date of Patent: June 5, 1990Assignee: Maeda Industries, Ltd.Inventors: Toshimasa Yamazaki, Kazuyuki Miura, Kazuto Yamasaki
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Patent number: 4925202Abstract: A pedal-propelled tricycle includes two front wheels, a rear wheel, a pedal drive and a handle bar. The pedal drive serves to rotate the axle of one front wheel by way of a chain while a brake on the axle of the other front wheel is adapted to be operated from an actuator on the handle bar. The handle bar serves to steer the rear wheel and carries a second actuator for operating a brake on the rear wheel.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 1989Date of Patent: May 15, 1990Inventor: Fred E. Barker
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Patent number: 4909529Abstract: A bicycle has a belt and pulleys in place of the usual chain and sprockets. Each pulley has three (more of less) racways separated by discs (pulley walls). The discs (pulley walls) have openings that permit the belt to be shifted from one raceway to another raceway. A rotatable arm pivoted to the frame of the bicycle controls the shifting of the belt to the desired raceways. One end of the arm applies lateral pressure to the belt just before it arrives at the pulley associated with the driving pedals of the bicycle, to shift raceways for the driving pulley. Similarly the other end of the arm applies lateral pressure to the belt just before it enters the driven pulley to shift raceways of that pulley. Each end of the arm is biased by a main spring to apply vertical pressure to the belt to maintain it tight.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 1988Date of Patent: March 20, 1990Inventor: Lowell L. Maguire
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Patent number: 4898047Abstract: Apparatus is provided for propelling a bicycle. In a preferred embodiment a crank and a sprocket are included which are rotatable relative to one another and have a common center of rotation. A guide fixedly attached to the sprocket constrains a sliding member having a hole through which an arm of the crank passes, such that rotation of the crank relative to the sprocket urges the sliding member along the guide. A compression spring disposed between a shoulder on the guide and the sliding member is compressed as the sliding member is urged along the guide. Hence, during a power stroke, an applied force on the crank causes the crank to advance rotationally ahead of the sprocket position during the first half of the stroke, urging the sliding member along the guide and compressing the spring. The spring stores the work of compression during the first half of the stroke as potential energy. During the second half of the stroke the spring releases the stored potential energy to the sprocket.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 1987Date of Patent: February 6, 1990Inventor: Douglas A. Cropek
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Patent number: 4895385Abstract: A dual driven cycle and a kit for converting conventional, single driven cycles into dual driven cycles are disclosed. The invention is suitable for accommodating bicycles, motorcycles, dirt bikes, and other conventional cycles. These cycles have the known elements of a pedal-gear-chain driven first wheel and a non-driven second wheel. The kit comprises four general elements. First, a sprocket is connectable in fixed relation to the non-driven second wheel for conjoint movement with that wheel. Second, to receive power from the conventional drive train, a drive gear is mounted on either the pedal gear or chain of the cycle. Third, a cable gear is provided for mounting with respect to the cycle's frame and meshing with the sprocket. This cable gear drives the sprocket and, of necessity, the cycle's previously non-driven second wheel.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 1987Date of Patent: January 23, 1990Inventor: Billie J. Becoat
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Patent number: 4846489Abstract: A vehicle with a pedal drive, such as a bicycle, tricycle or moped, includes a frame. A pedal drive is rotatably mounted on the frame and includes a driving gear. A wheel is rotatably mounted on the frame and a driven gear is jointly rotatable with the wheel and includes driven gear teeth. An endless toothed belt is trained about and interconnects the driving and driven gears and includes transmission gear teeth. The driven gear teeth of the driven gear are slightly reduced with respect to driven gear teeth which would correspond to the transmission gear teeth of the endless toothed belt.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 1986Date of Patent: July 11, 1989Assignee: Ernest KleinebenneInventor: Dieter Kleinebenne
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Patent number: 4842291Abstract: An enclosed drive for a low maintenance bicycle features a chain case which replaces the conventional chain stay on the right side of the bicycle, and an improved nine speed planetary transmission housed within a gear case inside the rear wheel hub. The chain case is press fit on a steel tube rotatably mounted in the bottom bracket, and the rear spindle is clamped in the rear dropouts with over center quick disconnects. To change the rear tire, the rear spindle is released and the chain case is rotated about the axis of the bottom bracket to swing the rear wheel clear of the frame. The wheel, which is attached to the gear case with four bolts, can then be removed from the left side without disturbing or exposing any of the drive train components.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 1987Date of Patent: June 27, 1989Inventor: Dirck T. Hartmann
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Patent number: 4840084Abstract: A freewheel mechanism for bicycles includes a side plate which is easily removed, allowing a sprocket to be quickly replaced without removing the body of the freewheel mechanism from the hub of the bicycle. Since they are not needed in racing, and to facilitate sprocket changes, ball bearings are not used. In the usual manner, a pawl means, and a pawl spring means are disposed between the sprocket and the freewheel body, allowing the sprocket to turn one way only in relation to the freewheel body.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 1987Date of Patent: June 20, 1989Inventor: Roger O. Durham
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Patent number: 4826191Abstract: A velocipede such as a bicycle or tricycle includes a drive sprocket mounted on a frame for adjustment between a plurality of positions defining an arcuate path having an axis of curvature. A second sprocket is rotatably mounted on the axis and is coupled to the drive sprocket by a first chain. A third sprocket is mounted coaxially with and is coupled to the second sprocket for rotation therewith. A fourth sprocket is mounted on the rear wheel and coupled to the third sprocket by a second drive chain.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 1987Date of Patent: May 2, 1989Assignee: Harley-Davidson, Inc.Inventors: Daniel A. Matre, Jeffrey L. Bleustein
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Patent number: 4778192Abstract: This disclosure relates to novel improved recumbent vehicles having a frame comprising an elongate tubular support means adapted to substantially entirely enclose within its interior the vehicle's primary drive means thereby eliminating risk of rider entanglement. Other features of recumbent vehicles according to the invention include a steering assembly including handlebars selectively positionable along the frame and diametrically interconnected by steering cable means to a front fork selectively positionable along the frame and rotatably supporting a front wheel providing for nearly 90.degree. steering movement of the front wheel, and a seat means selectively positionable along the frame to accommodate various size riders and adapted to support a rider without the need for complicated seat bracing apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 1986Date of Patent: October 18, 1988Inventor: Lloyd McElfresh
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Patent number: 4773662Abstract: A velocipede, for example a bicycle, having a front wheel drive is disclosed. The front wheel has a gear axially mounted thereon. In place of regular handlebars is a drive gear rotatably mounted on the upper front of a frame. The drive gear has coextensive handle means for rotating the drive gear. A first drive chain connects the drive gear to a plurality of different sized gears. A second drive chain connects the plurality of different sized gears to the gear axially mounted on the front wheel, whereby rotation of the hand means causes rotation of the front wheel. A derailleur is provided to change the position of the second chain on the plurality of different sized gears. Independently rotatable coextensive handles with cables extending to the outside allow for brake levers and derailleur levers to be mounted on the handles without becoming entangled during 360 degree rotation of the drive gear. The gear wheel is lockable to provide fixed handlebars.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 1987Date of Patent: September 27, 1988Assignee: Ultra M.A.C. Corp.Inventor: Cal M. Phillips
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Patent number: 4773663Abstract: A recumbent bicycle is powered by the driving of a crank spindle that rotates on an axis generally coincident with that of the front wheel. The crank spindle is disposed within a spindle housing supported from the front of the bicycle frame, and the spindle housing supports the front wheel through a steerably turnable intermediate hub. Steering of the handlebars causes the front wheel to turn to steer the bicycle, while the crank spindle remains in a fixed orientation to the frame so that the bicycle can be continuously driven with pedals connected to the crank spindle, which in turn is connected to the rear wheel through a sprocket and drive chain assembly.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 1987Date of Patent: September 27, 1988Inventors: Kevin A. Sawyer, Raymond A. Brindos
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Patent number: 4750754Abstract: Novel handlebars for a bicycle are disclosed. The handlebars include a crosspiece connected to a bicycle steering post, and first handles are connected to the crosspiece. Novel second handles extend forwardly from the crosspiece; these second handles are located so that, when they are grasped by a rider, the rider's forearms are located to be supported by the handlebars at positions over the crosspiece. The second handles are located relatively close together to encourage the rider to adopt a riding position in which the frontal area of the rider's silhouette is minimized, and in which the rider's elbows are located ahead of the rider's lungs.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 1987Date of Patent: June 14, 1988Inventor: Dan C. Lennon
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Patent number: 4741546Abstract: An automatic transmission for use on a bicycle is mounted on a bracket that is connected to the rear axle of the bicycle. A first chain connects the chain wheel with a sprocket fixed for rotation with the drive pulley of the transmission. A second chain transmits power from a sprocket fixed for rotation with the driven pulley to the rear wheel hub sprocket. A V-belt is used to transmit power between the drive and driven pulleys. Once a predetermined input torque is reached during pedalling, the transmission automatically changes the speed ratio between the chain wheel and the driven rear wheel of the bicycle. The gear ratio continues to change automatically and steplessly in response to increasing torque through the entire range of gear ratio change, which is approximately equal to the range provided by a standard ten speed bicycle.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 1987Date of Patent: May 3, 1988Inventor: James B. Reswick
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Patent number: 4688816Abstract: A multiple-wheel cycle includes a front wheel and two rear wheels respectively driven by two chainwheels formed on a driving shaft rotatably mounted on a bottom bush of a seat tube of the cycle frame so that the three wheels having their centers projectively aligned all contact the ground surface to increase their friction with the ground for stable running and less slippery of the cycle.Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 1986Date of Patent: August 25, 1987Inventor: Tzu-Tsan Yang
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Patent number: 4659098Abstract: A semi-recumbent bicycle having a conventional wheelbase. The frame of the bicycle has a unique geometric configuration in that the main tube of the frame is straight such that its axis forms an acute angle with the line of the ground so that the main tube is higher at its rear end than at its front end. This novel arrangement permits the semi-recumbent bicycle to be more easily manufactured and assembled because all of the major components of the bicycle are aligned directly off of the main tube and there is no need, with the exception of the rear triangle which supports the rear wheel, to align and fit together the component parts of the bicycle. Moreover, the semi-recumbent bicycle may be operated by riders of many different sizes because the bicycle seat is adjustable along the main tube toward and away from the foot pedals. The unique geometric configuration also enhances the range of adjustability of the seat and makes it possible to provide a luggage rack which is connected to the back of the seat.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 1984Date of Patent: April 21, 1987Inventor: Stephen A. Jacobson
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Patent number: 4659097Abstract: The invention relates to a bicycle, the frame (31) of which is connected to a single-arm drive extension (30) which, at its rear end, has firmly connected to it a rear wheel axle (11a) which is rotatably mounted and can be driven by a drive device (38,33,34,35), onto which rear wheel axle (11a) the rear wheel can be attached from one side. Moreover, the front wheel holder connected to the bicycle frame (31) is designed as a monospar fork (1), with the front wheel axle (11) being firmly connected to the monospar fork (1) for accommodating the front wheel on one side. The wheels (8a,8b) have wheel hubs (9a,9b) which are designed in half shell shapes and are open towards the axle bearing devices (12,13,14), with a break device (22), which is firmly connected to the axle bearing device, being arranged within at least one half shell shaped wheel hub, which brake device (22) can be pressed against the inner peripheral surface of a wheel hub (9a, 9b) for braking the bicycle.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 1985Date of Patent: April 21, 1987Assignee: Durkopp System Technik GmbHInventors: Gerd Kupper, Siegfried Zabinski, Burghardt Vossen
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Patent number: 4618160Abstract: A recumbent vehicle having a frame which includes an elongate tubular support adapted to substantially entirely enclose within its interior the vehicle's primary drive mechanism thereby eliminating risk of rider entanglement. Other features of recumbent vehicles according to the invention include a steering assembly including handlebars selectively positionable along the frame and diametrically interconnected by steering cable means to a front fork selectively positionable along the frame and rotatably supporting a front wheel providing for nearly 90.degree. steering movement of the front wheel, and a seat selectively positionable along the frame to accommodate various size riders and adapted to support a rider without the need for complicated seat bracing apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 1985Date of Patent: October 21, 1986Inventor: Lloyd McElfresh
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Patent number: 4598920Abstract: An automatic transmission for a bicycle comprising a sprocket wheel of variable diameter, for receivably engaging a linked bicycle chain, drivingly connected to a bicycle wheel. The diameter of the sprocket wheel can be varied in relation to the angular speed of the bicycle wheel. Variation in the diameter of the sprocket in response to drive pressure applied by the linked bicycle chain is prevented by a locking mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 1984Date of Patent: July 8, 1986Inventors: Robert Dutil, Raymond Gilbert
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Patent number: 4593923Abstract: This is a bicycle sprocket chain cleaner that includes a housing and a removable cover wherein the chain while still on the bicycle is placed in the housing and the cover is placed on the housing to enclose a portion of the chain. The chain may then be rotated in a counterclockwise manner wherein it passes through the cleaner and is cleaned of dirt and other foreign matter.Within the housing there is a solvent reservoir and a plurality of brush members adapted to contact the chain and clean the same. Some of the brushes will wick the solvent to the chain to assist in cleaning the same.In addition there is a solvent drain means associated with the housing to assure the chain is drained of solvent as it leaves the cleaner.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 1985Date of Patent: June 10, 1986Inventor: Robert Thalmann
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Patent number: 4582318Abstract: An exerciser device has a rotary crank assembly turnable in opposite selected directions and driving an endless first chain entrained on sprockets. The chain drives through a first engaged clutch when the crank assembly is turned in one direction to turn a wheel which drives a variable resistance device such as a variable delivery pump. A second chain entrained on other sprockets which are driven by the first chain when engaged by a second clutch, to drive the wheel when the crank assembly is turned in opposite direction. The wheel always turns in the same direction regardless of the direction in which the crank assembly is turned.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 1984Date of Patent: April 15, 1986Assignee: Lumex, Inc.Inventors: Raymond Giannelli, Matthew R. Martin
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Patent number: 4559892Abstract: Amphibious vehicle having a pedal assembly coupled to propelling devices. On land the vehicle is propelled by at least one wheel driven by the pedals. The wheel has vanes for use in water. Floats keep the vehicle afloat in water. The pedal assembly is adjustable on the vehicle frame to raise them above the water when afloat. In a second embodiment a separate propeller machanism is coupled to the pedal assembly for use in water.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 1983Date of Patent: December 24, 1985Inventor: Raul S. Cascallana
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Patent number: 4531754Abstract: An improved radial braking system uses the power of the cyclist's back pedaling to bring the braking member into contact with the rim of the wheel. The system allows for the direct contact of the braking member with the middle portion of the outer surface of the rim rather than to the side of the rim, as is common with the caliper type brakes. A rim having a laterally disposed lip for mounting of the spoke allows for an unobstructed middle portion for contact with the braking member.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 1982Date of Patent: July 30, 1985Inventor: Christian F. Engleman
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Patent number: 4502705Abstract: Separate pedal cranks are provided for the front and rear riders of a tandem bicycle having a front wheel of substantially smaller diameter than the rear wheel. Such front wheel is carried by a front fork journaled in a steering head directly below the front seat. The front pedal crank is carried at the end of a support arm extending generally horizontally forward from the steering head so that the front rider pedals in a sitting position with his or her legs extending forward. The front fork is connected to a steering shaft journaled in an upright steering post located behind the front seat. A rear seat substantially higher than the front seat is supported on an upright saddle post spaced rearward from the steering post but sufficiently close thereto for steering control of the bicycle by the rear rider.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 1983Date of Patent: March 5, 1985Inventor: James B. Weaver
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Patent number: 4479660Abstract: A two wheel, synchronously driven bicycle is disclosed as comprising a frame, a rear wheel, a front wheel, a foot powered drive unit for said rear and front wheels, a fork member whereby the front wheel is rotatably mounted on the frame, the foot power drive unit mounted on the frame having first and second sprockets coupled to be rotatably driven by the foot powered unit, the rear wheel having a third sprocket connected thereto, the front wheel having a fourth sprocket connected thereto, first and second endless belts or chains respectively interconnecting the first sprocket and the third sprocket of the rear wheel, and the second sprocket and the fourth sprocket of the front wheel, and a pair of pulleys mounted on a steering post of the fork member for receiving leading and trailing portions of the second belt and for directing the belt from the second sprocket to the fourth sprocket of said front wheel in a manner to permit steering of the front wheel and to avoid interference of the second belt with the fType: GrantFiled: September 30, 1982Date of Patent: October 30, 1984Inventor: Daniel J. Pattison
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Patent number: 4469343Abstract: The present invention entails a three-wheel vehicle having a main frame structure, a front wheel, a pair of laterally spaced steerable rear wheels, and a seat disposed intermediately between said front and rear wheels. A jack shaft is rotatively mounted rearwardly of the front wheel and is driven by a pedal assembly having a drive shaft rotatively journaled transversely about the axis of the front wheel. Operatively associated with the jack shaft is a multi-speed chain drive that is drivingly interconnected between the pedal assembly and the jack shaft. The jack shaft further includes an output end or side that drivingly connects to the front wheel. Consequently, it is appreciated that torque is transferred from the pedals through a multi-speed chain drive to the rearwardly disposed jack shaft and the torque associated with the output side of the jack shaft is transferred back to the front wheel for driving the same.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 1982Date of Patent: September 4, 1984Inventor: Hugh A. Weatherford
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Patent number: 4408776Abstract: A three wheel vehicle is provided with improved drive and handling characteristics, especially when turning. The three wheel vehicle includes a frame with a pair of front wheel and axle assemblies rotatably mounted on either side near the front of the frame. A rear fork, wheel and axle assembly is mounted at the rear center of the frame which is rotatable and laterally pivotable for turning the vehicle. Steering means are provided for rotating the fork and pivoting the fork laterally in a direction opposite the direction of turning the vehicle. Preferred drive means provide two wheel positive forward drive and pedal actuated independent dual braking.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 1981Date of Patent: October 11, 1983Inventors: Travis M. Randolph, Charles P. Schreiner
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Patent number: 4398740Abstract: A chain drive for use on a bicycle having a conventional frame and wheels. The chain drive comprises a wheel hub mounted for rotation on the frame. The opposite end portions of the hub are disposed on opposite sides of the frame, respectively. Two sprocket devices are mounted on the opposite end portions, respectively, of the hub for imparting rotation thereto. A pedal operated crank is also mounted for rotation on the frame, and includes two coaxial sprockets secured to the opposite ends of the crankshaft. The crank sprockets are axially spaced, parallel and disposed on the opposite sides, respectively, of the frame. The two sprocket devices and the two crank sprockets are radially aligned, respectively, one sprocket device being associated with one crank sprocket. Two chains are mounted on the aligned sprocket devices and crank sprockets, respectively, for driving the wheel hub by means of the crank.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 1981Date of Patent: August 16, 1983Inventor: Victor L. Clem
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Patent number: 4333664Abstract: A bicycle operated by a rider in a reclining position. The frame of the bicycle is constructed of a forward section, a middle section and a rear section. The rear section supports the rear wheel and the back of the seat. An X member behind the seat connected to the rear section provides further support for the back of the seat. The forward section is reinforced by a pair of more or less parallel crank assembly braces extending from the rear of the middle section to a crank assembly positioned at the front of the forward section. A chain extends from the crank assembly to the rear wheel to drive the bicycle.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 1980Date of Patent: June 8, 1982Inventors: Milton Turner, Julian M. Smith
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Patent number: 4303256Abstract: This invention relates to a bicycle of the kind having the seat placed low so that the legs of the rider are substantially horizontal.The improvements comprise a simple frame having simple connections between its members, a rear wheel suspension in which the drive chain or other means serves to limit the loads on the wheel suspension fork, a simple front wheel suspension, a steering linkage and post serving as support for a rear view mirror, a simple air cushioned seat and a baggage carrier serving as a marker to enhance visibility in traffic.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 1979Date of Patent: December 1, 1981Inventor: Peder S. Mortensen
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Patent number: 4274647Abstract: A manually steerable skateboard is provided in which the skateboard has two horizontal, wheeled frame members joined at an articulated joint. A rider standing on a rear frame member can turn a front frame member using a steering assembly connected to grippable handle bars. Embodiments of the steerable skateboard having one or more seats for the rider's use and embodiments in which locomotion is provided by operator driven foot pedals, by electric motors, and by internal combustion engines are disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 1979Date of Patent: June 23, 1981Inventor: Louis V. Drake, Jr.
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Patent number: 4248448Abstract: A bicycle having a frame extended rearwardly and beyond the rear wheel of the bicycle provided in the extended portion with a pedal crank driven sprocket connected by an endless drive chain with a sprocket gear carried by the rear wheel, the extended portion being in one form of the invention an integral part of the frame, or being in a modified form of the invention an accessory unit separably attachable to the conventional frame of a bicycle, in which modified form the sprocket gear is connectible by the drive chain, at the election of the rider, with either the pedal crank driven sprocket in the accessory unit or with the normal pedal crank driven sprocket in the conventional frame.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 1979Date of Patent: February 3, 1981Inventor: Igor Dmitrowsky
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Patent number: 4183418Abstract: A tricycle apparatus utilizes a chassis having a housing disposed surrounding the midregions of the rear axle of the tricycle. Each rear wheel is provided having a child carrying seat secured to a fender-like covering therefor. The rear axle is provided having two portions concentrically aligned with one another and each being locked to each other utilizing a removeable locking pin therefor. In a manual mode of operation, both portions of the rear axle, when locked together, are caused to rotate, operating the rear wheels by the conventional pair of bicycle pedals journaled to the tricycle frame. A double output shafted gear head motor, utilizing a pair of slip clutches is coupled individually to each portion of the rear axle so as to enable a battery, carried by the housing, to operate the motor, provided operating power for the tricycle when such motor, slip clutches and battery are added to a mounting within the housing.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 1978Date of Patent: January 15, 1980Inventor: Herminia Dudas
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Patent number: 4183262Abstract: A gear crank for a bicycle unidirectionally freely rotatably supporting at least one sprocket wheel with a crank body integrated with a crank shaft and a pair of crank arms at both ends of the shaft and having an inner ring which is passed over one of the arms to be mounted to one end of the shaft, is fixed with a cone, and supports, through a unidirectional rotational transmission, a driven member with the sprocket wheel in a unidirectionally freely rotating relation therewith.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 1976Date of Patent: January 15, 1980Assignee: Shimano Industrial Company LimitedInventor: Takashi Segawa
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Patent number: 4173154Abstract: The invention relates to an improved pedal drive mechanism for a bicycle. The mechanism provides a vertically oval pedal path which provides an improvement in the thrust imparted to the driving wheel during the downward movement of the pedal. These paths are defined by two sets of sprockets disposed in parallel planes connected by a set of double strand chains. This mechanism is connected to the drive wheel by a conventional sprocket-chain linkage.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 1977Date of Patent: November 6, 1979Inventors: Nile E. Sawmiller, Craig S. Sawmiller
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Patent number: 4170369Abstract: Bicycle wheels are mounted on single suspension struts, each having an axle secured horizontally. Adjacent to the strut is an independently rotatable assembly. For the rear wheel, the assembly includes an overrunning clutch having its outer driven portion, which bears a brake disc, splined into the inner surface of the wheel hub, and its inner driving ratchet operably coupled to a drive sprocket. For the front wheel, an identical wheel hub is splined into the outer surface of a rotatable assembly which bears a brake disc.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 1978Date of Patent: October 9, 1979Assignees: Lauren Strutman, Lisa Strutman, Jerome A. GrossInventor: Warren A. Strutman
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Patent number: 4165094Abstract: Juvenile toy vehicle with a braking arrangement including front and rear axles supporting front and rear wheels, respectively, a pipe frame having the front and rear axles mounted in the front and the rear ends thereof, respectively, a sprocket wheel having a crank shaft provided with a pair of pedals and positioned on the pipe frame, another sprocket wheel rigidly mounted on the rear axle and linked with the crank shaft sprocket wheel by the intermediary of an endless chain, and a steering wheel linked with the front axles to permit change of a running direction of the vehicle.One of the rear wheels is rigidly disposed on the rear axle for integral rotation with the rear axle sprocket wheel, while the other rear wheel is journaled rotatably on the rear axle. The rear axle and the crank shaft are rotatably supported between an opposed pair of complimentary bush halves which are surrounded and held together by a fixture rigidly secured on the pipe frame.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 1977Date of Patent: August 21, 1979Assignee: Ageo Industries Co., Ltd.Inventor: Isao Onda
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Patent number: RE30078Abstract: A vehicle adapted to move along a supporting surface comprising a frame, a wheel having a centrally located hub mounted on the frame for rotational movement about a first rotational axis relative to the frame, and an inner rotatable member at least partially within the hub. The inner rotatable member is mounted for rotational movement about a second rotational axis. The inner rotatable member and the hub are movable relative to each other along a path having a radial component to permit adjustment in the relative radial position of the first and second rotational axes. The hub and the inner rotatable member are drivingly interconnected by a mechanism which includes a one-way clutch. The operator of the vehicle can adjust the relative radial position of the rotational axes to thereby adjust the drive ratio between the hub and the inner rotatable member.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 1978Date of Patent: August 21, 1979Assignee: Harris DynamicsInventor: Trevor L. Harris
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Patent number: RE32681Abstract: A three wheel vehicle is provided with improved drive and handling characteristics, especially when turning. The three wheel vehicle includes a frame with a pair of front wheel and axle assemblies rotatably mounted on either side near the front of the frame. A rear fork, wheel and axle assembly is mounted at the rear center of the frame which is rotatable and laterally pivotable for turning the vehicle. Steering means are provided for rotating the fork and pivoting the fork laterally in a direction opposite the direction of turning the vehicle. Preferred drive means provide two wheel positive forward drive and pedal actuated independent dual braking.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 1985Date of Patent: May 31, 1988Inventors: Travis M. Randolph, Charles P. Schreiner