Wheel Substitute Patents (Class 280/28.5)
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Patent number: 10556631Abstract: A low-profile roller assembly reduces an overall mounting height of walking machines enabling use in a wider variety of structures and locations while also reducing complexity and over cost. The low-profile roller assembly may include a roller device with a substantially flat roller cage with one or more slots configured to hold a single layer of rollers. The roller device may move longitudinally relative to a support foot and a load plate may move longitudinally relative to both the support foot and the roller device. The load plate may laterally displace relative to a longitudinal axis of the support foot or may laterally displace relative to longitudinal axes of both the support foot and the roller device.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2017Date of Patent: February 11, 2020Assignee: ENTRO INDUSTRIES, INC.Inventors: Shawn R. Smith, Harlan B. Smith
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Patent number: 10486726Abstract: A motorized cooler cart including a wheeled parallelepiped insulated cooler body with a housing compartment disposed on a rear side thereof which contains a rechargeable battery, a retractable power cord in operational communication with the battery, and a drive gear motor in operational communication with the wheels. A telescopic handle is retractable and alternately extendible from the housing compartment. When the handle is extended, a speed control switch disposed on the handle and the drive gear motor are activated to rotate the wheels. The user only guides the cooler body. The present device also includes carrying handles, a cushioned seat atop a hinged lid, a foldable backrest, an electrical outlet on the rear side, cup holders extendible from channels in the lid, a rod holder, at least one storage pouch, and a dry storage tray. A pair of armrests is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2017Date of Patent: November 26, 2019Inventor: Ray Logan
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Patent number: 9849901Abstract: The present invention relates to a structure which may include an outer housing, an inner lining, an insulation space in between, a top, an inner platform, a charging station, a wireless charging panel, power-assist wheels with intelligent torque control for transport, a storage compartment, a removable innner liner, and a handle. The structure may comprise a portable container, such as an insulated cooler for storing cooled food and beverages for social and leisure activities.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2015Date of Patent: December 26, 2017Inventor: Dane Jackman
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Patent number: 9682736Abstract: A work vehicle includes left and right track assemblies, each track assembly including a main frame, a pivot member, a pivot shaft coupled to the pivot member, and an actuator coupled between the pivot shaft and the main frame. Each pivot member is mounted to a respective main frame to permit pivotal steering movement about a generally vertical steering axis for steering the track assemblies under the influence of the actuator. Additionally, each track assembly is pivotal about a generally horizontal pitch axis of the respective pivot shaft to permit pitch movement of the respective track assembly. Each track assembly is also pivotal about a generally horizontal camber axis through a portion of the respective pivot member to permit camber movement of the respective track assembly.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2016Date of Patent: June 20, 2017Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLCInventors: Marvin A. Prickel, Michael J. Connors, Tom Lykken, David Allen Zach
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Patent number: 9056620Abstract: A multipurpose loading and unloading and/or material handling and moving apparatus including a closed chain continuous roller grid disposed on and around a continuous elongate table, the roller grid comprising a plurality of parallel axles pivotally coupled at their ends by parallel first and second sets of independent mechanical links.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2013Date of Patent: June 16, 2015Inventor: Gary D. Copus
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Patent number: 9004504Abstract: A wheel 4 mounted on a vehicle body 2 by a suspension arm 6 can be retained in a raised position by a retaining mechanism 10. The retaining mechanism 10 comprises a latching element 12 which can be disposed in a deployed position by a control element 14. When the control element 14 is moved to a position corresponding to the deployed position of the latching element 12, the latching element 12 is resiliently displaceable towards the vehicle body 2, to allow the suspension arm 6 to rise, for example when the wheel 4 is driven over an obstacle. The latching element 12 can then move to the deployed position to prevent lowering of the arm 6, so retaining the wheel 4 in the raised position. All wheels of the vehicle may be moved to the raised position, so as to reduce the ride height of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 2011Date of Patent: April 14, 2015Assignee: Horstman Defence Systems LimitedInventors: Tim Holman, Robert D'Aubyn
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Patent number: 8960692Abstract: A semi-generic underframe assembly configured to be mounted to an underside of a vehicle is disclosed. The underframe assembly provides preconfigured mounting locations where track systems used to replace wheels can be properly mounted. The underframe assembly comprises at least one customized adapter frame particularly configured to be mounted at specific locations on the underside of a specific model of vehicle, and at least one generic adapter frame configured to be mounted to the customized adapter frame, the at least one generic adapter frame generally comprising the preconfigured mounting locations. The underframe assembly generally allows track systems to be mounted to the vehicle while avoiding attachment at inconvenient and/or weak locations.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 2013Date of Patent: February 24, 2015Assignee: Soucy International Inc.Inventors: Steeve Paré, Steve Fréchette, Serge Latulippe, William Gasse, André Léger
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Patent number: 8925937Abstract: A toddler walker includes a body and at least one wheel. The at least one wheel is coupled with and arranged under the body. Each wheel includes first and second wheel frames. Each wheel frame includes an annular portion and an inner edge forming a central hole. The inner edge is positioned at one side of the annular portion. Each wheel frame further includes an extension portion extending from the inner edge to the annular portion, as well as a plurality of connection posts. The extension portions of the wheel frames face each other. The wheel frames are fastened together to jointly form a wheel-receiving space. A rolling wheel and a plurality of rolling members are received in the wheel-receiving space. The rolling members are rotatably coupled with the connection posts of the wheel frames and abut against an inner circumferential face of the rolling wheel.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2012Date of Patent: January 6, 2015Assignee: Taiwan Jodani Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventor: Tung-Chiao Wu
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Publication number: 20140314531Abstract: The present device provides a device for transporting a load along a level or canted surface such as a rooftop. The device comprises a frame having a bed, and a plurality of movement facilitating components. The transported load rests atop a bed comprised of a plurality of freely-rotatable cylindrical tubes, along which the load may be manually moved rectilinearally in the course of loading the equipment onto or offloading the equipment from the present device. Each movement facilitating component is comprised of a chassis having a plurality of belted wheels. The chassis is articulatably connectable to height adjusting components. The assembled device has height adjusting components connected to the frame. When the present device moves along a surface, the belted wheels may orient to align with the surface contours and with the direction of movement of the present device.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 18, 2014Publication date: October 23, 2014Inventor: Jackie L. Hearld
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Patent number: 8864147Abstract: Narrow agricultural vehicles have been invented to make farm labor more attractive, to enable enhanced productivity of workers, and to make possible more complete usage of the land. A low seating position is provided for a worker. The width of the vehicle is approximately the same width as the seated worker, enabling vehicle use with narrowly spaced row crops. The wheel set is configured for both maximum stability and efficient operation on soft surfaces, using large drum wheels that maximize the footprint area. The vehicle structure includes a wide frame section and a low and narrow tongue structure that connects between front and rear wheel arrangements. The tongue configuration minimizes interference with work of said worker.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2012Date of Patent: October 21, 2014Inventor: James K. Bullis
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Publication number: 20140265181Abstract: A transport apparatus includes a frame, a lift mechanism supporting the frame, and a litter deck for supporting a person. The litter deck is adapted to be reconfigured between a chair configuration and a cot configuration. The litter deck is also adapted to be removably mounted to the frame, with the litter deck being adapted to be supported by the frame while the litter deck is in its chair configuration and also while being reconfigured between its chair configuration and its cot configuration.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 2014Publication date: September 18, 2014Applicant: Stryker CorporationInventors: Clifford Edwin Lambarth, Jason James Wroblewski, Brandon David Naber, Alfred James Dacy, IV, Thomas Alan Puvogel, Ross Timothy Lucas
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Publication number: 20140239604Abstract: The present document describes a robot for transforming a rotation movement into a vertical/horizontal displacement on the ground using legs, said robot comprising a chassis; a rotation shaft connected to said chassis; a plurality of leg modules connected to said shaft at a first end for rotating around said shaft; a plurality of legs, each of said legs being rotatably attached to one of said leg modules at a second end opposite the first end; a mechanism for keeping a lower surface of said legs horizontal to the ground as the robots rotates around the rotation shaft for allowing the robot to move on flat surfaces as well to climb stairs.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 23, 2012Publication date: August 28, 2014Applicant: Innovation SynchronxInventor: Mario Lecompte
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Publication number: 20140159326Abstract: A multipurpose loading and unloading and/or material handling and moving apparatus including a closed chain continuous roller grid disposed on and around a continuous elongate table, the roller grid comprising a plurality of parallel axles pivotally coupled at their ends by parallel first and second sets of independent mechanical links.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 6, 2013Publication date: June 12, 2014Inventor: Gary D. Copus
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Publication number: 20130285339Abstract: A snowmobile rear suspension assembly has a pair of slide rails and at least one suspension arm pivotally connected thereto and adapted to be pivotally connected to a tunnel. A shock absorber is adapted to be pivotally connected between the tunnel and the slide rails. A limiter strap, adapted to extend between the tunnel and the slide rails, is substantially inextensible to limit separation therebetween. A strap holder, connected between an end of the limiter strap and the slide rails or the tunnel when the at least one suspension arm is connected to the tunnel, is moveable between a first and a second strap holder position. A position of the end of the limiter strap, relative to the slide rails or the tunnel, is different in the first strap holder position compared to the second strap holder position. A method of adjusting the limiter strap is also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 30, 2013Publication date: October 31, 2013Inventors: Yvon BEDARD, Nicolas BEDARD
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Publication number: 20130277928Abstract: A semi-generic underframe assembly configured to be mounted to an underside of a vehicle is disclosed. The underframe assembly provides preconfigured mounting locations where track systems used to replace wheels can be properly mounted. The underframe assembly comprises at least one customized adapter frame particularly configured to be mounted at specific locations on the underside of a specific model of vehicle, and at least one generic adapter frame configured to be mounted to the customized adapter frame, the at least one generic adapter frame generally comprising the preconfigured mounting locations. The underframe assembly generally allows track systems to be mounted to the vehicle while avoiding attachment at inconvenient and/or weak locations.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 19, 2013Publication date: October 24, 2013Applicant: Soucy International Inc.Inventors: Steeve Paré, Steve Fréchette, Serge Latulippe, William Gasse, André Léger
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Publication number: 20130241162Abstract: Narrow agricultural vehicles have been invented to make farm labor more attractive, to enable enhanced productivity of workers, and to make possible more complete usage of the land. A low seating position is provided for a worker. The width of the vehicle is approximately the same width as the seated worker, enabling vehicle use with narrowly spaced row crops. The wheel set is configured for both maximum stability and efficient operation on soft surfaces, using large drum wheels that maximize the footprint area. The vehicle structure includes a wide frame section and a low and narrow tongue structure that connects between front and rear wheel arrangements. The tongue configuration minimizes interference with work of said worker.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 14, 2012Publication date: September 19, 2013Inventor: James K. Bullis
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Publication number: 20130181431Abstract: A frame and undercarriage track mounted assembly for a grain cart or manure tank unit designed to be pulled in a forward direction over and agricultural field by a farm tractor is disclosed. The invention involves a steering axle assembly that is adapted to turn dual spaced track assemblies. The steering axle is easily guided to improve the maneuverability and safety of the unit and reduce field compaction. The steering system design features compound angled kingpins that transfer some of the unit weight to assist in turns. Thus, the steering system reduces the resistance of the unit steering system to turning and the large footprint of the track assemblies minimizes ground compaction during turns.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 11, 2013Publication date: July 18, 2013Applicant: BALZER, INC.Inventor: BALZER, INC.
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Patent number: 8430411Abstract: A selectively configurable trolley for transporting articles across a given terrain includes a housing having a top platform and sides that at least partially define an enclosure for mounting internal operating components therein. One or more roller bearings are disposed within the housing and all configured to rotatingly support a drive belt. A handle is attached to the housing for pushing or pulling the trolley and a guide roller is disposed at a proximal end of the housing and is angled relative to the roller bearings to facilitate rotation of the belt therearound.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2007Date of Patent: April 30, 2013Inventor: John L. Cornwell
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Publication number: 20130062153Abstract: A robot has a track assembly having tracks configured to move the robot in a first direction and a wheel assembly having wheels configured to move the robot in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction. A toggling assembly switches between the track assembly and the wheel assembly. The robot modules can mate with each other. The robot module has an elongated shaft with a head and a narrow neck. The shaft extends outward from the side of the robot module. A mating robot module has a clamping mechanism with opposing clamps which in an opened position receive the shaft. In a closed position, the clamps define an opening which matches and engages the cross-section of the neck of the elongated shaft. The clamping mechanism has a drive mode to drive the module, a clamping mode for docking, and neutral mode for alignment prior to clamping.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 8, 2012Publication date: March 14, 2013Inventors: Pinhas Ben-Tzvi, Paul Marie Moubarak
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Publication number: 20130062841Abstract: Invented are narrow vehicles for operation on soft surfaces for agricultural use. These would enhance worker productivity and make the work more attractive. It is essential that such vehicles be simple and low cost to enable wide adaptation. Such vehicles include a frame and a wheel set that enables a low seating position for a rider. This low seat position changes requirements for stability compared to most, familiar vehicle types. The intended low speed operation further eases the requirement for stability measures. The width of the vehicle is approximately the same width as the seated rider which enables vehicle use with narrowly spaced row crops. Wide drum wheels provide the needed stability, and with large diameter the drum has maximized footprint area which minimizes penetration into the soft underlying surface, enabling high efficiency operation.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 14, 2011Publication date: March 14, 2013Inventor: James K. Bullis
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Publication number: 20130056942Abstract: A sliding device for sliding on the ground down a sloped or inclined surface (grass, dirt, sand, synthetic turf, etc.) has an upper deck and a slide mechanism mounted below and in parallel with the upper deck. The slide mechanism has a slide base formed by upper and lower planar members spaced apart and extending horizontally in parallel, with an enclosure formed by left and right braces and front and rear braces with radiused ends, and an endless anti-friction belt is entrained to slide around the slide base. The slide base is formed as an air tight enclosure provided with a portable air pump mechanism, and the lower planar member has an array of small air holes to let pumped air out to form an air layer between the lower planar member and the belt sliding around it for reducing friction and higher downhill sliding speeds. The device may be used for sliding down a hill like a body board, boogie board, surfboard, sled, ski, or skateboard.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 1, 2012Publication date: March 7, 2013Inventor: Mark Maratta
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Publication number: 20130033013Abstract: A bearing for a vehicle suspension system is provided and includes an outer member and an inner member. The outer member defines a first inner surface and a first outer surface wherein the first outer surface is configured to engage an equalizer bar of the vehicle suspension system. The inner member defines a second outer surface and a bore therethrough defining a second inner surface. The inner member is configured to engage a frame of the vehicle suspension system. A first lubricious fabric liner is provided in communication with at least a portion of the first inner surface and the second outer surface. The first lubricious fabric liner slidingly engages at least a portion of one of the first inner surface and the second outer surface in response to relative movement between the equalizer bar and the frame of the vehicle suspension system.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 8, 2012Publication date: February 7, 2013Applicant: ROLLER BEARING COMPANY OF AMERICA, INC.Inventor: James Voisine
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Publication number: 20120267866Abstract: A vehicle equipped with a double wishbones and double tandem members suspension system to suspend the vehicle, the double tandem members being operatively interconnected together and adapted to receive idling wheels adapted to support and guide an endless belt thereon to provide significant suspension travel and prevents an endless belt disengagement from the idling wheels. A suspension and a kit thereof are also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 1, 2012Publication date: October 25, 2012Inventor: Marius ALLAIRE
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Publication number: 20120193881Abstract: The invention relates to a steering device for mutually steering a first vehicle unit and a second vehicle unit of an articulated vehicle, which vehicle comprises a substantially vertical link shaft about which said vehicle units are pivotable, first and second steering elements arranged to mutually turn said vehicle units, wherein the steering device comprises a housing configuration arranged to form a supply space between said vehicle units. The invention also relates to an articulated vehicle with a steering device.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 23, 2010Publication date: August 2, 2012Applicant: BAE Systems Hãgglunds AktiebolagInventors: Sverker Svärdby, Patrik Forsberg
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Patent number: 8104553Abstract: A virtual wheel provides a leg pair as a conveyance mechanism for a land vehicle. The virtual wheel propels the vehicle across a surface using a repetitive motion of the legs that contact the ground as would a wheel, due to their geometry. Vehicle embodiments include at least two-, three-, four- and six-wheeled vehicles, both transverse and in-line. Additionally, the invention provides a bipedal walking robot. One embodiment provides a robotic mule—a payload-carrying vehicle. The invention combines the flexible mobility of bipedal vehicles with the stability and functionality of very large-wheeled vehicles. Additionally, a bimodal conveyance mechanism readily converts between walking and rolling modes.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2009Date of Patent: January 31, 2012Assignee: Applied Minds, LLCInventors: Mark Setrakian, W. Daniel Hillis
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Publication number: 20110316246Abstract: A sliding device for sliding on the ground down a sloped or inclined surface (grass, dirt, sand, synthetic turf, etc.) has an upper deck and a slide mechanism mounted below and in parallel with the upper deck. The slide mechanism has a slide base of an elongated planar member, side rails, and opposite radiused ends, and an endless anti-friction belt is entrained to slide around the slide base. Front and back rollers are mounted transversely on front and rear portions of the slide base, and the belt is entrained on the front and back rollers for straighter and more stable tracking and reduced friction for higher downhill sliding speeds. The device may be used for sliding down a hill like a body board, boogie board, surfboard, sled, ski, or skateboard.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 8, 2011Publication date: December 29, 2011Inventor: Mark S. Maratta
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Publication number: 20110291370Abstract: A wheel 4 mounted on a vehicle body 2 by a suspension arm 6 can be retained in a raised position by a retaining mechanism 10. The retaining mechanism 10 comprises a latching element 12 which can be disposed in a deployed position by means of a control element 14. When the control element 14 is moved to a position corresponding to the deployed position of the latching element 12, the latching element 12 is resiliently displaceable towards the vehicle body 2, to allow the suspension arm 6 to rise, for example when the wheel 4 is driven over an obstacle. The latching element 12 can then move to the deployed position to prevent lowering of the arm 6, so retaining the wheel 4 in the raised position. All wheels of the vehicle may be moved to the raised position, so as to reduce the ride height of the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 24, 2011Publication date: December 1, 2011Applicant: HORSTMAN DEFENCE SYSTEMS LIMITEDInventors: Tim Holman, Robert D'Aubyn
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Publication number: 20110291369Abstract: A suspension unit is disclosed comprising: a hub 6; a bearing sleeve 24 eccentrically mounted within the hub 6; a crank pin 22 rotatably received within the bearing sleeve 24; and a connecting rod 20, a first end 28 of which is connected for rotation with the crank pin 22 over a connecting area 26 that comprises less than a complete circumference of the crank pin 22; the bearing sleeve 24 comprising a slot 52 through which the connecting rod 20 extends from the first 28 end to a second end.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 24, 2011Publication date: December 1, 2011Applicant: HORSTMAN DEFENCE SYSTEMS LIMITEDInventors: Tim Holman, Robert D'Aubyn
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Publication number: 20110175304Abstract: The one-piece running gear (1) has at least two wheels (2), each mounted to rotate about a shaft (6) on a mounting (7). The rotary shaft (6) of at least one of these wheels (2) can be moved away by at least one spacer means (13), the force for returning it to position being exerted by an endless kinematic running link (3) travelling around the wheels (2), said wheels being kinematically connected together by this running link (3). The running gear (1) may be mounted in a pivoting or fixed fashion on a rolling base serving as the chassis of a vehicular or other moving assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 21, 2009Publication date: July 21, 2011Inventor: Jean-Claude Arbogast
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Publication number: 20110175302Abstract: A manually propelled vehicle (1) comprises a frame (11) and a plurality of wheels (17, 23) secured to the frame (11) for conveying the vehicle (1) in one mode of operation. The vehicle (1) further comprises at least one continuous track assembly (3) mounted on the frame (11) and defining an upper tread (63a) and a lower tread (63b). The distance between the upper tread (63a) and lower tread (63b) can be changed from a retracted condition to an extended condition. In the extended condition, the lower tread (63b) forms the ground engaging surface of the vehicle (1) for conveying the vehicle (1) in a second mode of operation thereof. The vehicle (1) further comprises a seat (5) pivotally mounted to the frame (11) and means to tilt the seat (15) rear-wardly when ascending or descending an incline.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 18, 2009Publication date: July 21, 2011Inventors: David Sherman, Yekutiel Sherman, Robert Taylor
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Patent number: 7836983Abstract: A virtual wheel provides a leg pair as a conveyance mechanism for a land vehicle. The virtual wheel propels the vehicle across a surface using a repetitive motion of the legs that contact the ground as would a wheel, due to their geometry. Vehicle embodiments include at least two-, three-, four- and six-wheeled vehicles, both transverse and in-line. Additionally, the invention provides a bipedal walking robot. One embodiment provides a robotic mule—a payload-carrying vehicle. The invention combines the flexible mobility of bipedal vehicles with the stability and functionality of very large-wheeled vehicles. Additionally, a bimodal conveyance mechanism readily converts between walking and rolling modes.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2008Date of Patent: November 23, 2010Assignee: Applied Minds, Inc.Inventors: Mark Setrakian, W. Daniel Hillis
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Publication number: 20100237574Abstract: A suspension system adapted to receive an endless belt drive is provided, the suspension system comprising a first wishbone adapted to be secured at a first end thereof to a frame of a vehicle a second wishbone adapted to be secured at a first end thereof to the frame, a hub connecting the first wishbone and the second wishbone at second ends thereof, a tandem member pivotally secured to the hub, and at least one pair of wheels attached to the tandem member, the at least one pair of wheels being adapted to contact the endless belt to support the vehicle. A method of using same and a kit providing same are also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 18, 2010Publication date: September 23, 2010Applicant: L'EQUIPE FABCONCEPT INC.Inventor: Marius Allaire
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Publication number: 20100148459Abstract: A new skating device having a handle which is held by a skater. Wheels, ice blades, or other means of conveyance are placed in front, behind and on both sides of the handle or extend to the front, behind and on both sides of the handle, thus holding the device upright as it conveys the skater across a skating surface. Two or more of the wheels or ice blades are directionally fixed, allowing only forwards or backwards movement. The device allows a skater to skate with hands down against a skating surface. Other skate devices such as inline skates can support the skater's lower body allowing the skater to skate in a prone or crab position. Optional brakes, fenders, hand guards, grind plates and padding for the handle can be added to facilitate the activity which the device will be used for.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 28, 2009Publication date: June 17, 2010Inventor: Allen G. Johnston
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Publication number: 20100108412Abstract: The present invention provides a device for safely and conveniently conveying an object on a slope. The safety feature includes a fail-safe one-way brake comprising a ratchet wheel, a pawl and a biasing means. In one embodiment, the device is foldable; in another embodiment, the device is integrated with a suitcase; in yet another embodiment, the device is motorized.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 16, 2007Publication date: May 6, 2010Inventors: Kannappan@Suresh A/L Lynkaran, Chin Sai Wong
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Publication number: 20100090426Abstract: A virtual wheel provides a leg pair as a conveyance mechanism for a land vehicle. The virtual wheel propels the vehicle across a surface using a repetitive motion of the legs that contact the ground as would a wheel, due to their geometry. Vehicle embodiments include at least two-, three-, four- and six-wheeled vehicles, both transverse and in-line. Additionally, the invention provides a bipedal walking robot. One embodiment provides a robotic mule—a payload-carrying vehicle. The invention combines the flexible mobility of bipedal vehicles with the stability and functionality of very large-wheeled vehicles.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 19, 2009Publication date: April 15, 2010Inventors: Mark SETRAKIAN, W. Daniel Hillis
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Patent number: 7543663Abstract: A virtual wheel provides a leg pair as a conveyance mechanism for a land vehicle. The virtual wheel propels the vehicle across a surface using a repetitive motion of the legs that contact the ground as would a wheel, due to their geometry. Vehicle embodiments include at least two-, three-, four- and six-wheeled vehicles, both transverse and in-line. Additionally, the invention provides a bipedal walking robot. One embodiment provides a robotic mule—a payload-carrying vehicle. The invention combines the flexible mobility of bipedal vehicles with the stability and functionality of very large-wheeled vehicles.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2005Date of Patent: June 9, 2009Assignee: Applied Minds, Inc.Inventors: Mark Setrakian, W. Daniel Hillis
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Publication number: 20090127807Abstract: A selectively configurable trolley for transporting articles across a given terrain includes a housing having a top platform and sides that at least partially define an enclosure for mounting internal operating components therein. One or more roller bearings are disposed within the housing and all configured to rotatingly support a drive belt. A handle is attached to the housing for pushing or pulling the trolley and a guide roller is disposed at a proximal end of the housing and is angled relative to the roller bearings to facilitate rotation of the belt therearound.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 17, 2007Publication date: May 21, 2009Inventor: John L. Cornwell
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Publication number: 20090079150Abstract: A sliding device for sliding on the ground down a sloped or inclined surface (grass, dirt, sand, synthetic turf, etc.) has an upper deck and a slide mechanism mounted below and in parallel with the upper deck. The slide mechanism has a slide base of an elongated planar member with opposite radiused ends, and an endless anti-friction belt entrained to slide around the slide base. A pair of outboard side rails is mounted on opposite transverse sides of the slide base extending longitudinally. Each side rail has a plurality of mounting cutouts in a row spaced along the length thereof for mounting a plurality of wheels on the outboard side of the side rail for making turns. The wheels are preferably mounted with rubber inserts in the cutouts to allow for slight deflection of the wheels upward and rearward for better tracking in a turn. The device may be used for sliding down a hill like a body board, boogie board, surfboard, sled, ski, or skateboard.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 2, 2008Publication date: March 26, 2009Inventor: Mark S. MARATTA
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Patent number: 7172203Abstract: A limited movement roller device and related method for moving a load includes a frame with a load bearing surface. A plurality of rollers are moveable through the frame and connected with respect to each other. A stop block is positioned within a void between two rollers of the plurality of rollers so as to obstruct movement of the plurality of rollers through the frame. Accordingly, a load may be maneuvered by reaching a braking point of the roller device and then rotating the load and the roller device 180° relative to each other prior to moving the load again to the braking point. This process may then be repeated to move the load without risk of losing control of the load, such as down an incline.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2004Date of Patent: February 6, 2007Assignee: Triodyne Safety Systems, L.L.C.Inventor: Ralph Lipsey Barnett
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Publication number: 20030098558Abstract: A sports device (10), preferably a snow or water vehicle, has an outer shell (15) which when inflated, forms a support surface (13) underneath and a lying down or sitting surface (20) on top. An inflatable tubular shell (20) with two segments (21, 22) extending crosswise across it is provided in this outer shell (15). The outer shell (15) consists of a robust fabric which is coated or laminated with plastic. The tubular shell (20), which is in itself separate from the outer shell, is produced from plastic films, preferably without any fabric reinforcement. The outer shell may also be connected to the tubular shell in such a way that they form a single film. The inventive sports device can therefore be produced with optimal materials for the outer shell or the tubular shell, with the result that it has a long service life.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 17, 2002Publication date: May 29, 2003Inventors: Josef Steiner, Adrian Bernet
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Publication number: 20020171211Abstract: An integrated rotary drive motion transmission and directional control system includes a rotor and a pair of rotary drive motion transmitting assemblies each disposed adjacent to one of the opposite sides of the rotor. The rotor is mounted to rotate in either of opposite directions and has an annular channel defined on each opposite side by radially spaced inner and outer concentric surfaces. Each assembly is mounted to rotate in either opposite direction and has output and input elements disposed respectively remotely from and adjacent to the rotor. The input element can be moved from an intermediate neutral position to one of opposite drive positions where the input element engages one or the other of the inner and outer surfaces of the rotor annular channel enabling transmitting of rotary drive motion from the rotor to the assembly output element and controlling speed and direction thereof.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 21, 2001Publication date: November 21, 2002Inventors: Bradford K. Herman, Douglas S. Queen
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Patent number: 6478314Abstract: The present invention provides a means for limiting the hip and elbow movement in a reciprocating leg so as to simulate the gait of a walking animal. This is accomplished through the use of one or more arcuate guides which control the hip and elbow movement of the reciprocating leg.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2002Date of Patent: November 12, 2002Inventor: Joseph C. Klann
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Patent number: 6443466Abstract: An all-terrain bicycle is comprised of a bicycle frame having a front and a rear fork to which is removably secured a front and a rear wheel. Each wheel has a circular rim which is interconnected to the hub by spokes. The rear wheel has sprockets secured to the central hub and which is interconnected to a driving sprocket by a chain or other such belt-like drive connector. Each of the rims is provided with a surface engaging support shoes assembly to provide support of the bicycle on a surface. Such bicycles are particularly useful for riding on soft and also irregular surfaces which are deformable such as sand, snow or the like.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 2001Date of Patent: September 3, 2002Assignee: Carl-All, Inc.Inventor: Antoine Trubiano
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Patent number: 6364040Abstract: The present invention provides a walking device adapted to simulate a gait of a legged animal. The walking device includes a frame, a leg, an upper and lower rocking arms, a connecting rod and a crank all of which are axially interconnected together. The rocker arms and crank are axially mounted to the frame in a triangular spatial relationship. The cranking link is axially mounted to the frame in cooperative association with a suitable power source and operatively linked to a connecting rod which serves to transmit power from the crank to the interconnected linkages of the walking device. The leg has a hip joint at one leg end axially connected to the upper rocker arm, a foot attached to an opposite leg end and a knee joint axially connected to the connecting rod which is axially connected at an opposite connection rod end to a crank rod of the crank. The lower rocker arm at an end opposite from its axial frame mount is axially connected to a centrally disposed elbow linkage of the connecting rod.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2001Date of Patent: April 2, 2002Inventor: Joseph C. Klann
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Publication number: 20010052683Abstract: A roller board including a board and two or more downwardly-disposed roller assemblies mounted on the board. Each roller assembly has an annular retaining collar with a spherical recess, a plurality of bearings seated within the recess, and a spherical roller ball rotatably seated in the recess in contact with the bearings. A stabilizer assembly is mounted between the roller assemblies to give lateral stability, and a false axle is provided in each of the roller assemblies for imparting increased friction upon contact with the roller ball. The false axle imparts a higher coefficient of friction on hard cornering, thereby simulating “carving” or digging in the edges of a snow board. The foregoing features combine to exactly simulate the sensation of using a snow board on snow.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 31, 2001Publication date: December 20, 2001Inventor: Andrew H. Vance
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Patent number: 6260862Abstract: The invention provides a walking device which stimulates a gait of a legged animal. The device includes a frame with spaced axial mounts, a leg, axially connected upper and lower rocker arms which limit reciprocating leg motion. The leg is driven by a connecting arm powered by a rotating crank. The position and configuration of the axial connecting sites establish a prescribed orbital path that the foot undertakes with each revolution of the crank. Both rocker arms and the crank are axially mounted to the frame. The leg has a hip joint axially connected to the upper rocker arm for limiting hip motion, a foot and a knee joint axially connected to the connecting arm. The connecting arm has three axial connecting sites, one for connecting to the knee, another to the crank, and a third connecting site defined as a centrally disposed elbow joint connecting site which connects onto the lower rocker arm and limits knee joint motion.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 1999Date of Patent: July 17, 2001Inventor: Joseph C. Klann