Extensible And Knockdown Patents (Class 280/278)
  • Patent number: 8707825
    Abstract: The teachings provided herein relate to an articulable crankset for converting a pedal-powered vehicle into a push-powered vehicle having the articulable crankset in a retracted position to provide at least less of an obstruction to a user's legs during use of the push-powered vehicle than a non-retractable crankset. The vehicle can be a bicycle, and the articulable crankset can be a component of a production bicycle or a component of a conversion kit that will convert a bicycle from a pedal-powered bicycle to a convertible bicycle that can also function as a push-powered bicycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Kroozn, LLC
    Inventors: Brian Kinting Shiu, Vanessa Chen-Hwa Shiu
  • Publication number: 20140103616
    Abstract: A foldable tricycle that transitions between a use orientation, and a transport or storage orientation. The tricycle has a frame including a first end and a second end of the frame, a fork rotatably connected adjacent the first end of the frame, a front wheel rotatably connected to the fork, and a handlebar assembly coupled to the fork to allow for steering of the fork. The tricycle also has first and second rear wheels adjacent the second end of the frame in the use position. The rear wheels are positioned a first distance from a longitudinal axis of the frame in the use position. The first and second wheels can be transitioned to a storage position adjacent the first end of the frame and at a second distance from the longitudinal axis of the frame in the storage position, wherein the first distance from the frame is greater than the second distance from the frame. The tricycle may also have a folding assembly pivotably coupled to the second end of the frame at a first pivot location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: RADIO FLYER INC.
    Inventors: Matthew Edward Young, Randall Alan Sandlin, Ross Elliot Bartels, Thomas K. Schlegel, Jason Fitzwater
  • Patent number: 8687355
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a slide and rotation module for an executable multiple operation mode electronic device, providing a structure with inclination-adjustable, movable, rotational and bidirectional folding functions. The slide and rotation module includes a steering arm and a slide seat disposed between the first machine body and the second machine body. The steering arm includes a first end pivoted to a first machine body and a second end pivoted to a second machine body, in which the second end of the steering arm is rotated and translated within a limiting part in response to a motion of the first machine body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: First Dome Corporation
    Inventors: An Szu Hsu, Chien Cheng Mai, Way Han Dai, Hsiu Fan Ho
  • Publication number: 20140077474
    Abstract: A folding bicycle and method for folding the folding bicycle is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2012
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Inventors: Richard Priest, Warren Fu, Julian Casablancas
  • Patent number: 8672336
    Abstract: The automatic scooter unlocking mechanism is an improvement to existing folding kick scooter designs whereby vertical movement of a telescoping handlebar automatically causes rotation, and a corresponding unlocking, of a scooter footboard latch. The inventive mechanism places an extension on to the rotating handle of the footboard latch and places the distal end of the extension in such a location so as to contact a protuberance located on the sliding portion of the telescoping handlebar. During contact, the extension is deflected and the handle of the footboard latch rotates and unlocks, allowing for free rotation of the scooter footboard between folded and unfolded states. The inventive mechanism can be integral to a kick scooter design or can take the form of a system that can be installed on to a pre-existing kick scooter in an aftermarket fashion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Inventors: Michael Hughesdon Turner, Ryan Patrick Murphy
  • Patent number: 8657522
    Abstract: A compression coupler contains a robust and simple mechanism to couple threadless tubes in bicycles and/or scooters. Particulrly, the handlebar/stem tube-to-fork joint is coupled with a compression sleeve. The coupler provides more surface area for binding and is tightened along a slot on the length of the coupler. The coupler can include a headtube bearing preloading mechanism, a keyway for aligning the handlebar/stem tube to the fork, and shims to accommodate different sized tubing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Inventor: Andrew David Broussard
  • Publication number: 20140049022
    Abstract: An adjustable bicycle is provided as well as an adjustable frame assembly and an adjustable steering column assembly. The frame assembly includes a seat tube, a head tube and a top tube assembly connecting the seat tube to the head tube. The top tube assembly includes a female tube and a male tube having a front attached to the head tube and the rear telescopically engaging with the female tube. The female tube telescopically slides within the first male tube. A locking mechanism fixes the position of the female tube relative to the male tube. The adjustable steering column assembly includes a steerer tube having a top and a bottom, the bottom being operatively engaged within the head tube. A telescopic tube having a bottom telescopically engages within the steerer tube. A steering column locking mechanism fixes the position of the telescopic tube within the steerer tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2013
    Publication date: February 20, 2014
    Applicant: Brazen Bikes Ltd.
    Inventor: Anthony Robert DOPF
  • Patent number: 8636293
    Abstract: This invention relates to a foldable vehicle comprising at least three wheels which of one wheel is a steering wheel, a steering handle, a frame connected with the steering element and having at least one standing surface. Upon folding the frame will be movable with respect to the steering handle to statically fit together in a compact manner Hereby a practical and efficient vehicle for personal transportation and commuting is created.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: Me-Mover ApS
    Inventor: Jonas Eliasson
  • Patent number: 8602436
    Abstract: Foldable bicycle including a first frame part (1) that supports the front wheel (4) and a second frame part (2) that supports the rear wheel (5), joined together by a joint (3) with a single geometrical rotation axis (X1) tilted with respect to the direction perpendicular to the bicycle's longitudinal plane. The joint (3) is an annular joint in the form of a ring that delimits an inner free space (6) that is wide enough to receive the hand of an adult, so that it forms a handle which is pulled upwards to produce the movement from the bicycle's unfolded position to the bicycle's folded position thanks to the actual weight of the bicycle and the relative rotation of the two frame parts (1, 2) around the geometrical rotation axis (X1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Inventor: JoaquĆ­n Montero Basqueseaux
  • Patent number: 8602435
    Abstract: A bicycle frame hinge is provided having a lower and upper portion. The lower and upper portions being movable with respect to each other in both translation and rotation when in a storage condition, and are locked with respect to each other to prevent both translation and rotation when in a riding condition. The lower and upper portions are configured to form an internal cable passage way when the bicycle frame is in the riding condition, and when the bicycle frame is in the storage condition. The lower portion comprises two interlocking features, and the upper portion comprises two interlocking features configured to engage with the interlocking features of the lower portion when the bicycle frame is in the riding condition. A clamping mechanism is disposed between the two interlocking features of the lower and upper portions, the clamping mechanism configured to clamp the upper and lower portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Cycling Sports Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher Philip Dodman, Torgny Fjeldskaar
  • Publication number: 20130277941
    Abstract: A collapsible cycle for use by a rider over a terrain surface comprises a frame having front and rear portions and a seat attached to the frame. A front wheel is rotatably attached to a steering member, the front wheel rotatable in a first plane about a primary axis, and the steering member being pivotally attached to the front frame portion for rotation about a secondary axis orthogonal to the primary axis. A user-operable steering mechanism is coupled to the steering member. A rear wheel is rotatably attached to the rear frame portion and rotatable in a third plane about a tertiary axis. A drive mechanism is operatively coupled to the front and/or rear wheel. The cycle is collapsible from an erect riding configuration to a collapsed configuration by repositioning the front and rear wheels into mutually closer proximity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventors: Grant James Ryan, Peter Lloyd Higgins, Caleb Peter Smith
  • Publication number: 20130270792
    Abstract: Provided is a bicycle including: a front wheel section steering bicycle comprising: a front wheel section comprising a handle section, and front wheel stem connected to a lower end of the handle section and provided with a saddle installed at an upper end and a front wheel installed at a lower end thereof; and a rear wheel section comprising a rear wheel stem provided with an upper end hinged to the lower end of the handle section or the front wheel stem via a steering bearing and a lower end at which a rear wheel is installed, which form an X shape, wherein the front wheel section is laterally steered about a ground contact point of the front wheel as a rotary shaft by the hinge when the steering bearing is rotated by steering manipulation of the handle section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2013
    Publication date: October 17, 2013
    Inventor: Kyunghee PARK
  • Patent number: 8556284
    Abstract: A modular bicycle comprising a first section having a front frame section and a first tire, a second section being couplable to the first section and comprising a central frame, and a third section being couplable to the second section and the first section, with the third section comprising a rear frame section, a second tire, and a handle bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: A-Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Harry Appleman
  • Patent number: 8550484
    Abstract: A bicycle headstock assembly may include a lower member adapted to be attached to a steering rod of the bicycle, and an upper member adjustably connected to the lower member. A pivot joint may be formed at a connection of the lower and upper members respectively. A handle bar clamp may be connected to the upper member and extending away therefrom. A primary fastener may pass through a first location of the pivot joint while an auxiliary fastener may pass through a second location of the pivot joint respectively. In this way, the primary and auxiliary fasteners may cooperate to permit the upper member to selectively pivot and lock at alternate positions relative to the lower member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Inventor: Richard Draper
  • Patent number: 8523213
    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: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Inventor: Thomas Raphael
  • Patent number: 8517406
    Abstract: A movable vehicle includes a first frame member, a second frame member, and a biasing mechanism. The first frame member includes a front wheel and a handlebar configured to turn the front wheel in various directions. The second frame member has at least one rear wheel and is coupled to the first frame member such that the first frame member can rotate with respect to the second frame member. The biasing mechanism is operatively coupled to the first and second frame members and biases the front wheel in a preferred direction, such as a straight direction. The biasing mechanism may include a resilient gasket and a cavity having at least partially corresponding polygonal cross sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Huffy Corporation
    Inventors: Robert L. Diekman, Donald K. Jessie, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8505945
    Abstract: A human-powered scooter propelled by side-to-side movement of the user. The scooter has a steering mechanism coupled to a front wheel, and two frame arms pivotably coupled to the steering mechanism and extending rearward, to which two rear wheels are respectively coupled. A novel linking piece such as a mechanical plate member coupled to the steering mechanism can releasable engage with the frame arms in order to restrict their pivoting to equal magnitude in opposite directions. The linking piece can also disengage from the frame arms to allow the frame arms to be folded up. The pivoting axes of the two frame arms are predetermined such that, when folded, the frame arms are as near as possible to being parallel to a main steering control shaft of the steering mechanism. A mechanism for directly braking at least one of the rear wheels is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Inventor: Shane Chen
  • Patent number: 8490985
    Abstract: Embodiments herein provide a kick scooter comprising of 4 main assemblies: a center deck, a front wheel assembly, a rear wheel assembly, and a handle assembly, where these 4 assemblies have means to be easily and quickly separated from, and attached to, each other. The scooter allows the user to collapse the whole scooter into a compact volume so that it can be carried in a small backpack and be able to be reassembled for use in a few seconds and without any tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Inventor: Sergio Landau
  • Patent number: 8464609
    Abstract: An articulable crankset for converting a pedal-powered vehicle into a push-powered vehicle is provided. The articulable crankset can be in a retracted position to provide at least less of an obstruction to a user's legs during use of the push-powered vehicle than a non-retractable crankset. The vehicle can be a bicycle, and the articulable crankset can be a component of a production bicycle or a component of a conversion kit that will convert a bicycle from a pedal-powered bicycle to a convertible bicycle that can also function as a push-powered bicycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: Kroozn, LLC
    Inventors: Brian Kinting Shiu, Vanessa Chen-Hwa Shiu
  • Patent number: 8459678
    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: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Inventor: Jon P. Moldestad
  • Patent number: 8430414
    Abstract: The folding bicycle can easily change between a riding position and a folded position for storage and transportation. The folding bicycle comprises a rear wheel assembly, a central frame assembly, a steering assembly, a seat assembly, a plurality of hinge couplings, and a plurality of quick-release clamps. The hinge couplings allow the bike to fold in thirds. The quick-release clamps allow various parts to easily move when desired, such as sliding the seat assembly down or detaching the rear wheel assembly from the central frame assembly. In a riding position the folding bicycle functions as a normal bicycle. The folding bicycle can be converted to the folded position by using the hinge couplings and quick-release clamps to fold the rear wheel assembly and the steering assembly adjacent to the central frame assembly, fold part of the steering assembly down, and sliding the seat assembly down into the central frame assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Inventor: Fook Fah Yap
  • Publication number: 20130093159
    Abstract: An adjustable assembly for a bicycle includes a first support having an interior surface and a second support slidably positioned within at least a portion of the first support. One of the first support and the second support is adapted to attach to a first bicycle portion, and the other of the first support and the second support is adapted to attach to a second bicycle portion. Further, the second support comprises an expansion portion configured to be moved between an expanded position and a retracted position. The expansion portion is configured to engage the interior surface of the first support when the expansion portion is in an expanded position. In addition, the first support is configured to be selectively moved relative to the second support when the expansion portion is permitted to assume a retracted position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2012
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Applicant: SPECIALIZED BICYCLE COMPONENTS, INC.
    Inventor: SPECIALIZED BICYCLE COMPONENTS, INC.
  • Patent number: 8413753
    Abstract: A foldable seat mounting rack of a foldable motorized vehicle includes a pair of symmetric foldable seat mounting support. Each symmetric foldable seat mounting supports comprises: an upper mounting base, a lower mounting base, a pinion, a locking lever, a main connecting plate, a first and a second auxiliary connecting plates. The main connecting plate is pivoted on both upper and lower mounting bases. The pinion is pivoted at a middle portion on an inner side of the main connecting plate. Side surfaces at one end of the both auxiliary connecting plates are formed with racks engaging with the pinion. The first auxiliary connecting plate is pivoted on the lower mounting base and the second auxiliary connecting plate is pivoted on the upper mounting base. One end of the locking lever is pivoted on the upper end of the main connecting plate, and the other end presses against the pinion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Inventors: Chichun Wu, Zhao Zhang
  • Patent number: 8414007
    Abstract: A balance bike includes a frame, front and rear wheels, a seat, a joining structure, a front fork, and a steering handle. The joining structure is pivotally joined to the frame and pivotal between first and second positions. The joining structure includes a joining end and a receiving end. The front and rear wheels are disposed apart from each other, and the balance bike defines a first longitudinal dimension when the joining structure is in the first position. The front and rear wheels are disposed adjacent to each other, and the balance bike defines a second longitudinal dimension when the joining structure is in the second position. The first longitudinal dimension is larger than the second longitudinal dimension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Inventor: Wang-Chuan Chen
  • Patent number: 8398104
    Abstract: A bicycle seat adjustable device includes an outer tube with an inner tube movably inserted therein and a piston is connected to the inner tube. A valve control device includes an outer path tube in the inner tube, and a lower end of the outer path tube is connected to the piston and a top end of the outer path tube extends toward the inner tube. A movable piston is movably mounted to the outer path tube. An outer oil room and an inner air room are defined between the inner tube and the outer path tube. A valve unit is connected to the inner path tube to form an inner oil room and a path which communicates with the outer oil room and the inner oil room, and controlled by the valve unit. The inner tube and the inner path tube increases the travel distance of the hydraulic oil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Inventor: Jung Yu Hsu
  • Patent number: 8398107
    Abstract: The bicycle angle adjustment device according to the invention is suitable for rotationally adjusting a first bicycle part in relation to a second bicycle part. The first bicycle part is provided with a hole with an internal toothing. Also, an intermediate ring is provided with an external and internal toothing, wherein the intermediate ring's external toothing, when 5 mounted, meshes into the internal toothing of the first bicycle part. In this way, a first set of meshing toothings is formed. The second bicycle part is provided with an external toothing which, when mounted, meshes into the internal toothing of the intermediate ring, in such a way that a second set of meshing toothings is formed. The first set of toothings has a first minimum angular rotation and the second set of toothings has a second minimum angular 0 rotation. The first minimum angular rotation of the first set of toothings differs from the second minimum angular rotation of the second set of toothings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: 3T Design Limited
    Inventor: Richard McAinsh
  • Patent number: 8388005
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention describe a quadrilateral frame to be utilized by a two-wheeled vehicle. The quadrilateral frame may include front and rear vertical assemblies, top and bottom collapsible horizontal assemblies, the horizontal assemblies to collapse vertically. By collapsing the horizontal assemblies of the quadrilateral frame, it is to be understood that the space occupied by the vehicle when it is not in use is significantly reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Lit Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Daniel Kee Young Kim, Scott Weaving Lananna, Isao Takezawa
  • Patent number: 8388006
    Abstract: A locking mechanism for a foldable motorized vehicle for locking a main frame body thereof comprises a pulling arm, locking shafts, shaft sleeves, elastic elements, and locking pins. The shaft sleeves are fixedly positioned in parallel below the main frame body and respectively sleeved on the locking shafts. Each of the locking pins is fixed on one end of a corresponding locking shaft and penetrates corresponding locking holes on the main frame body. Each elastic elements is sleeved on the corresponding locking shaft and pressing against the locking shaft and the corresponding shaft sleeve, respectively. The pulling arm comprises a pulling rod pivoted on one end of one locking shaft, and a connecting member with one end pivoted on one end of the other locking shaft, and the other end pivoted on the pulling rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Inventors: Chichun Wu, Zhao Zhang
  • Patent number: 8381858
    Abstract: A handlebar folding mechanism for a foldable motorized vehicle comprising: (a) a mounting base, (b) a first connecting member and a second connecting member, each having a connection portion and a locking portion, (c) a first locking lever and a second locking lever, (d) a steering axial rod and (e) a first steering handlebar and a second steering handlebar, each of the steering handlebar having an inside end and outside end, wherein the connection portions of the connecting members are connected to the inside end of the first steering handlebar, the locking portions of the connecting members are pivoted on the mounting base, the locking levers are retractably mounted in the mounting base to control the rotation of the connecting members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Inventors: Chichun Wu, Zhao Zhang
  • Patent number: 8382133
    Abstract: A foldable device is adapted to connect a front fork to a handlebar of a bicycle, and includes a linking member hingedly connected to lower and upper hingeable flanges about first and second hinge axes, respectively. The first and second hinge axes are transverse to each other. The upper and lower hingeable flanges are respectively coupled with the handlebar and the front fork. The handlebar is turned relative to the front fork about the first and second hinge axes to permit a handlebar line of the handlebar to be parallel to a longitudinal direction in which the bicycle extends so as to fold the bicycle and to minimize the entire width of the folded bicycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Giant Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Che-Wei Hsu
  • Publication number: 20130043667
    Abstract: A bicycle frame includes a front section and a rear section. The front section includes a front frame portion having a front coupling configured to receive a front wheel support member and to allow rotation between the front coupling and the front wheel support member, the front frame portion defining a central vertical plane of the frame. The rear section includes a drive link case having an upper tube, a lower tube, a rear hub housing, and a front housing integrally arranged with each other to form a rigid drive link case having an opening disposed between the upper and lower tubes, the drive case being connected to the front frame portion via the front sprocket housing. The drive link case is disposed eccentric to the central vertical plane and is cantilevered rearward from the front housing. The front frame portion extends forward from the front housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2012
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Applicant: CYCLING SPORTS GROUP INC.
    Inventors: Christopher Philip Dodman, Torgny Fjeldskaar
  • Patent number: 8348294
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: MDM Productivity, LLC
    Inventor: Jon P. Moldestad
  • Patent number: 8342555
    Abstract: One embodiment of a tricycle (20) having a spine frame (22), supported by a rear wheel (34) and a pair of steerable front wheels (36), and supporting a recumbent seat (42) pivotably attached at its rear. A pedal boom (44) extends forwardly of the spine (26) and supports a pedal crank assembly (46). The front wheels each support a lateral arm (28) with the front wheel pivotably attached at the distal end and an angular projection (80) attached at the proximal end. A pivot (78) connects each angular projection to the spine, allowing the lateral arms and attached front wheels to fold to a stowed position alongside the spine. Another pivot (84) connects the boom to the spine, allowing the boom fold back to a stowed position against the spine. In the travel position, a clamp arrests the angular projections, and can arrest the boom and seat. The tricycle is collapsible to several levels of compactness. Other embodiments are described and shown.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Inventors: Alan Roy Ball, Eric John Ball
  • Patent number: 8322742
    Abstract: A human powered vehicle having a mechanism to run the vehicle by applying the operator's weight on at least one pedal in a reciprocating manner. The pedal moves a cranking body, which unwinds a drum. The drum is attached to at least one wheel by a directional freewheel clutch. The vehicle can also be simultaneously powered by a motor, whereas the motor takes over only when the vehicle reaches a certain speed, and automatically disengages when the vehicle slows down below a certain speed. Both the human powered and motor mechanism can operate independently without rotating any part of the other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Inventor: Abdul Latif Abbasi
  • Patent number: 8308178
    Abstract: A collapsible bicycle (1) has a frame (2) collapsible in its plane. The frame (2) includes a head tube (3) having a collapsible bicycle front side end (10) in which a front wheel fork (12), which receives a front wheel (13), is mounted. A seat stay (5) has an end (38) receiving a seat tube (39). A lever (6) is articulated at a first articulation point (50) at a collapsible bicycle rear side end (37) of the head tube (3) and at a second articulation point (49) at the end (38) of the seat stay (5) receiving the seat tube (39). The lever (6) is arranged to the collapsible bicycle front side in a riding position of the collapsible bicycle (1). A down tube (4) is articulated at a third articulation point (18) at the collapsible bicycle front side end (10) of the head tube (3) and at a fourth articulation point (24) at an end (38a) of the seat stay (5), opposite the end (38) of the seat tube (39).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Topeak, Inc.
    Inventors: Martin Hoerdum, Christian Bitsch
  • Patent number: 8262114
    Abstract: A tool-less coupling of a child vehicle having a front frame and a rear frame includes a post coupled to one of the front or rear frames; a locking insert having at least one flexible table coupled to the post, and a head tube coupled to the other of the front or rear frame, wherein an opening in a first end of the head tube is sized to cause inward flexing of the flexible tab as the post is inserted through the head tube, and the flexible tab flexes back outwardly after passing through the opening in the head tube so that a portion of the flexible tab is adjacent an end surface of the head tube such that the flexible tab cannot move back through the opening. Accordingly, the removal of the post from the head tube is prohibited and the front and rear frames are coupled together. A method for a tool-less assembly of a child vehicle is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Huffy Corporation
    Inventor: Donald K. Jessie, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8246065
    Abstract: A height adjustable seatpost assembly is provided with first and second tubes that are telescopically arranged to change an overall length of the height adjustable seatpost assembly using first and second ratchet arrangements. The first ratchet arrangement includes a set of first ratchet teeth having a first pitch and a first stop pawl member being movably coupled with respect to the first ratchet teeth between a first lock position and a first free position. The second ratchet arrangement includes a set of second ratchet teeth having a second pitch that is smaller than the first pitch and a second stop pawl member being movably coupled with respect to the second ratchet teeth between a second lock position and a second free position. The stop pawl members engage the ratchet teeth in the lock positions to prevent expansion of the first and second tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Shimano Inc.
    Inventors: Michihiro Kodama, Nobukatsu Hara
  • Patent number: 8226104
    Abstract: An energy efficient tricycle has a frame, fork and handlebars connected to hold a front wheel and two rear wheels. A power and transmission assembly means is mounted on the frame to provide power to both rear wheels. A pair of pedals are independently operable and used to provide the torque needed to propel the tricycle. A motorized embodiment is also provided to provide additional power when needed or to completely motorize the tricycle. The pedals are mounted so that they travel in a vertical path. The handlebars, front wheel and both rear wheels are foldable to allow the tricycle to fit within a vehicle. The tricycle has a very low center of gravity. A seat is provided in one embodiment to allow a user to sit and operate using a motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Inventors: Konstantin Kulikov, Sergey Cheprasov
  • Publication number: 20120169027
    Abstract: The invention relates to a foldable bicycle including a frame that comprises a rear portion on which a rear wheel is arranged, a front portion, and a folding system configured to fold back said front portion against said rear portion. On either side of the bicycle, the rear portion has a tubular structure comprising at least one tube extending longitudinally and having a rear segment and a front segment, assembly means being arranged between said rear segments and the rear wheel, said front segments having a curved shape configured to come into contact with the ground or floor when the front portion is folded back against the rear portion, so that said two front segments and at least the rear wheel stabilize the rear portion of the bicycle in the folded position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2011
    Publication date: July 5, 2012
    Applicant: DECATHLON
    Inventors: Benjamin POULLET, Pierre-Louis BASSETTI, Tony MARAIS
  • Patent number: 8210555
    Abstract: The vehicle has a single steered front wheel (1) mounted on a main frame (5) and two rear wheels (2, 3) mounted on a left (6) and right (7) frames. The left and right frames are connected to the main frame pivotally, which permits the vehicle to be folded into a compact position. The folded vehicle can stand up-right and can be moved to a storage place on two rear (2, 3) and two caster (145) wheels. For carrying inside a car the cycle also can be disassembled to four parts. The seat (9) has a two-point spring suspension with the axis higher than the center of gravity of the seated driver. It allows the seat with the driver to stay in a vertical position while driving on a lateral slope or to lean right and left as the vehicle is making a turn. The vehicle has a leg-operated back pedaling brake mechanism (15) and a car-style steering mechanism with a high-ratio cable reducer (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Inventors: Alexandre Belenkov, Eugene Belenkov
  • Patent number: 8205902
    Abstract: A trolley-like folding bicycle that mainly includes a bicycle frame, a folding device, a transmission gear, a draw bar, and a draw wheel set is disclosed. With the operation of the folding device, the present invention has a usage state and a folded state. When the present invention is in the folded state, the user can draw the trolley-like folding bicycle by simply turning the folded bicycle body upright such that the draw wheel set contacts the ground and then pulling the draw bar. At this stage, an axis formed with the draw bar is substantially perpendicular to a draw rotation axis formed with small wheels of the draw wheel set. The user can move the trolley-like folding bicycle by simply pulling the draw bar, as easily as drawing a luggage case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Inventors: Joakim Uimonen, Joshua Hon
  • Patent number: 8205903
    Abstract: Each side of an adjustable handlebar assembly has a hand grip assembly receiving portion having one of an elongated hollow member and an elongated member, a hand grip assembly and at least one releasable fastener. The hand grip assembly has the other of the elongated hollow member and the elongated member, and a hand grip disposed on the other of the elongated hollow member and the elongated member. The at least one releasable fastener is disposed on one of the elongated hollow member and the elongated member. The elongated member is received coaxially in the elongated hollow member. The hand grip is axially movable and pivotable relative to the hand grip assembly receiving portion. The at least one releasable fastener is operative to selectively and releasably fix the elongated member relative to the elongated hollow member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: Bombardier Recreational Products Inc.
    Inventors: Richard Simard, Etienne Girard, Andre Denis, Andre Cote, Steve Tetreault
  • Patent number: 8172247
    Abstract: A bicycle handlebar assembly that includes a number of grip sites, forearm supports, and a number of structures that have airfoil shaped cross-sections and that provide a highly adjustable handlebar assembly with improved aerodynamic performance across the range of adjustment of the handlebar assembly. The handlebar assembly includes a pair of shim stacks that each includes a number of shims that are selectively mountable to the handlebar assembly to adjust a relative vertical height of left hand and right hand aerobars and arm pads. The aerobars and arm pads are secured to the handlebar by way of corresponding clamping assemblies such that the aerobars and arm pads are movably secured to the handlebar assembly to provide the highly adjustable aero handlebar assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: Trek Bicycle Corporation
    Inventors: Jennifer Weber, Douglas A. Cusack
  • Patent number: 8162090
    Abstract: A scooter has a platform on which a rider can stand, a front wheel attached to a steering system including an upstanding handle bar and rear wheel which is driven. The scooter can be folded at a hinge line across the platform so to allow it to collapse. A case for the scooter includes a front part and a rear part covering the front and rear wheels with the parts brought together by the collapsing of the platform. This folding action also uses a pivot link to move the front and rear wheels pivoted within the respective case parts to a folded position. The steering includes a headstock with the steering bar connected to the front fork by a drive coupling which converts the rotation of the steering bar about the generally vertical axis to the rotation of the fork about an inclined axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Inventors: Paul Atherton, Andrew Graham, Kurt Walas
  • Patent number: 8162345
    Abstract: A foldable bicycle includes a frame, gears and two wheels. The frame includes a front vertical tubular portion, a front horizontal tubular portion, a hinge, a rear horizontal tubular portion and a seat-supporting tubular portion. A lopsided portion is disposed above the front fork. One piece of the hinge is welded to the rear end of the front horizontal tubular portion, and another piece is welded to the front end of the rear horizontal tubular portion. The seat-supporting tubular portion is positioned by a positioning rod. Therefore, the foldable bicycle of the present invention may be folded up into a smallest volume and then may be stored away easily through its positioning unit, hinge and positioning rod. Also, its two small wheels fitted to the rear rack enable the bicycle in a folded condition to be moved around easily.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: Chanton Trading Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Chung Szu-Yao
  • Patent number: 8157282
    Abstract: A cycle frame includes a back frame section and a front frame section. The back frame section has a bottom, substantially horizontal member and a top, substantially horizontal member. The back frame section also has a rear, substantially vertical member that is affixed at bottom and top ends to respective rear ends of the bottom and top members. The front frame section has a top frame member having a rear end that is releasably affixable to a front end of the back frame top member. A front frame member has a bottom end that is releasably affixable to a front end of the bottom member. A frame neck is affixed in bridging relation to the top and the front frame members. Thus the present invention achieves the front frame section's being interchangeable with another front frame section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Inventor: Arne T. Hutto
  • Patent number: 8152189
    Abstract: A bicycle frame includes a front section and a rear section. The front section includes a front frame portion having a front coupling configured to receive a front wheel support member and to allow rotation between the front coupling and the front wheel support member, the front frame portion defining a central vertical plane of the frame. The rear section includes a drive link case having an upper tube, a lower tube, a rear hub housing, and a front sprocket housing all integrally arranged with each other to form a rigid drive link case having an opening disposed between the upper and lower tubes, the drive link case being connected to the front frame portion via the front sprocket housing. The drive link case is disposed eccentric to the central vertical plane and is cantilevered rearward from the front sprocket housing. The front frame portion extends forward from the front sprocket housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Cannondale Bicycle Corporation
    Inventors: Christopher Philip Dodman, Torgny Fjeldskaar
  • Patent number: 8141893
    Abstract: A folding apparatus for a bicycle frame includes a bicycle frame and at least one engaging device assembled on the bicycle frame. The bicycle frame includes at least one first tube and at least one second tube. Each of the at least one engaging device includes a stationary sleeve disposed on the second tube and has a series of second tooth formed thereon. A rotary sleeve is fixed to the first tube and rotatably mounted on the second tube. The rotary sleeve has a series of first tooth formed thereon for correspondingly engaging with the stationary sleeve. A locking device is movably mounted on the second tube for securely retaining the rotary sleeve firmly engaging with the stationary sleeve. When the locking device is released, the rotary sleeve and the first tube rotate relative to the second tube, and the bicycle frame is folded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Inventor: Wen Teng Lin
  • Patent number: 8144875
    Abstract: A system and method comprising a computer useable medium having computer readable program code embodied therein for authenticating and encrypting and decrypting information transferred over a public network between a client application program running in a client computer and a server application program running in a server computer and a directory service application program running in a server computer. A method for secure communication by a processor with a server includes generating a message to the server by employing a one pass key generation probabilistic authentication process using a predetermined session master key and sending the message to the server. A method for secure communication between an application executable on a computer and a web server coupled to the computer includes participating by the application in an initial authentication process with the server and wrapping every GET and POST request message to the server in an SSLX-EA exchange after the initial authentication process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Inventor: R. Paul McGough
  • Publication number: 20120056399
    Abstract: A trolley-like folding bicycle that mainly includes a bicycle frame, a folding device, a transmission gear, a draw bar, and a draw wheel set is disclosed. With the operation of the folding device, the present invention has a usage state and a folded state. When the present invention is in the folded state, the user can draw the trolley-like folding bicycle by simply turning the folded bicycle body upright such that the draw wheel set contacts the ground and then pulling the draw bar. At this stage, an axis formed with the draw bar is substantially perpendicular to a draw rotation axis formed with small wheels of the draw wheel set. The user can move the trolley-like folding bicycle by simply pulling the draw bar, as easily as drawing a luggage case.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2011
    Publication date: March 8, 2012
    Inventors: Joshua Hon, Joakim Uimonen