Frames And Running Gear Patents (Class 280/281.1)
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Patent number: 6932369Abstract: An assembly comprises an elongate member and a receiving member. The elongate member has an external cross-sectional shape which is substantially square and has corners replaced by circumferentially spaced circular portions of a circumscribing circle with flat portions therebetween which lie within the circle. The receiving member has a receiving formation having an internal cross-sectional shape which cooperates at least with the flat portions of the external cross-sectional shape of the elongate member to prevent relative movement between the receiving member and elongate member about a longitudinal axis of the elongate member. The assembly is adapted for use in a joining the members of a wheelchair. The invention is further directed towards a structural assembly comprising an elongate member engaging in a receiving formation of a receiving member and a clamp embracing the receiving member to clamp the elongate member in the receiving formation.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 2003Date of Patent: August 23, 2005Assignee: Sunrise Medical HHG Inc.Inventors: Ian Ashley Walsh, Robert Menear
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Patent number: 6913275Abstract: This process is for adjusting the head tube angle on a bicycle frame without removing the head tube from the frame.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2003Date of Patent: July 5, 2005Inventor: John Cage
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Patent number: 6889992Abstract: There is provided a bicycle frame comprising a first tube; a second tube extending transversely from an upper region of the first tube; a third tube extending transversely and downwardly from a lower region of the first tube, and towards the same direction as the second tube; and a two-part tube joining the respective ends of the second and third tubes, the two-part tube having a straight upper part and a curved lower part, the straight upper part being substantially vertical and the curved lower part being curved longitudinally towards the first tube such as to conform to the curvature of a bicycle wheel. The upper part of the two-part tube is adapted to receive a post member therein, and a first and a second set of tubes extend at the respective ends the two-part tube and are each attached to drop.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2003Date of Patent: May 10, 2005Assignee: Cervelo Cycles, Inc.Inventors: Gerard Vroomen, Philip White
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Patent number: 6866280Abstract: A bicycle frame part made via a process that includes the steps of placing a one-piece metallic tube blank in a die; hydraulically forming the tube blank by introducing a hydraulic pressure into the tube blank to deform and expand the tube blank so as to form at least one expanded wall part projecting from the tube blank along a direction different from the direction of extension of the tube blank; and machining the expanded wall part to form a connection tube. A bicycle frame includes a plurality of frame parts connected to each other. At least one of the frame parts is formed via the aforementioned process, and includes a tube body and at least one connection tube projecting from the tube body in a direction different from the direction of extension of the tube body.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2003Date of Patent: March 15, 2005Assignee: Giant Manufacturing Co., Ltd.Inventor: Owen Chang
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Patent number: 6848700Abstract: Disclosed herein are various embodiments, including but not limited to a bicycle that includes, among other features, an elongated down tube and a single elongated seat tube, the longitudinal axis of the seat tube intersecting the longitudinal axis of the down tube at a location substantially intermediate between the first and second ends of the down tube, wherein the distance between the spaced apart side outer surfaces of each of the down tube and the seat tube are less than the distance between the upper and lower outer surfaces of each of the down tube and seat tube; additionally including a seat tube, a seat tube sleeve, a crank assembly and a bottom bracket sleeve for mounting the crank assembly, wherein the seat tube sleeve has an upper end, a lower end, and a longitudinal axis extending from the upper end to the lower end; the seat tube being disposed within the seat tube sleeve, the longitudinal axis of the seat tube sleeve intersecting the bottom bracket sleeve.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2002Date of Patent: February 1, 2005Inventor: Thomas M. Fritschen
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Patent number: 6848701Abstract: A seat post assembly for a bicycle arranged to reduce vibrations that originate at either the front or rear wheel of the bicycle and are transmitted to the rider of the bicycle through the frame. Desirably, the seat post assembly is configured to be supported by a bicycle frame and is configured to support a bicycle seat on its upper end. Preferably, an upper portion of the seat post defines a cavity. A damping member comprised of a vibration damping material is positioned within the cavity. Preferably, the cavity passes completely through the seat post in a lateral direction and the damping member is retained within the cavity by a friction fit therebetween.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2002Date of Patent: February 1, 2005Assignee: Specialized Bicycle Components, Inc.Inventors: Michael Sinyard, Bradley L. Waldron, Christopher P. D'Aluisio, Kevin Nelson
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Publication number: 20040245744Abstract: A vehicle is described that allows an operator to adjust it specifically to fit the operator's desires. A seat can be adjusted for comfort and safety by adjusting distance from pedals, and a tilt relative to the frame. A particular seat cushion can also be adjusted to the particular desires of the rider. The relative movement of vehicle frame components when the vehicle is traveling over uneven terrain can be adjusted by adjusting a suspension dampener. The steering mechanism can be adjusted for a proper fit and comfort.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 10, 2004Publication date: December 9, 2004Inventors: Andrew Emang, Ryan Goodwin, Paul Atwood, Christopher Sautter, Paul O'Connor, Richard Jeli
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Patent number: 6817621Abstract: Improved mechanical structure for increased efficiency in the transfer of the peddling force applied to a pedal crank assembly to the rear wheel of a bicycle is disclosed. This structure increases efficiency by decreasing the loss of exerted energy when peddling at dead spots, which dead spots are the common terminology used to refer to when the legs are either at down-stroke and up-stroke positions.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2001Date of Patent: November 16, 2004Inventor: Cyrus Varan
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Publication number: 20040207172Abstract: A connector element for connecting frame parts at a joint location in a bicycle frame is made of a single part of structural fiber based material, typically carbon fiber material, after reticulation in a mold exploiting the expansion of a core on which windings of fiber fabric material are provided, to obtain the application of a uniform radial pressure on the layers of fiber based material. In one embodiment, the connector element defines a bicycle bottom bracket and tubular extensions extending therefrom for connection to elements of the bicycle frame.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 13, 2004Publication date: October 21, 2004Applicant: CAMPAGNOLO S.r.l.Inventor: Mario Meggiolan
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Patent number: 6805373Abstract: The chain fork (1) of a bicycle frame is designed as a single unit consisting of a fiber-reinforced polymer material. The chain fork (1) is preferably connected with and cemented to a pedal crank enclosure via an appropriate receptacle.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2002Date of Patent: October 19, 2004Assignee: BMC Trading AGInventors: Rolf Singenberger, Daniel Weibel
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Patent number: 6799773Abstract: A low drag bike seat stem comprised of a joint and a briolette shaped tube; an insertion cap being built in the seat tube; the height of the tube being adjustable and secured in the seat tube; the joint being connected to the upper end of the briolette shaped tube; and a clamping hole in shape related to that of the briolette shaped tube being provided in the center of the insertion cap for the tube to be fully inserted through the insertion cap.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 2003Date of Patent: October 5, 2004Inventor: Yu-Ju Kao
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Patent number: 6796030Abstract: To adopt die casts product as parts of a vehicle body frame. A vehicle body frame is provide with an alumite treating, showing that brightness and appearance of pivot plates which are die cast products differ from those of non-die cast products, head pipes, longitudinal pipes and cross pipe. By carrying out a local coating treatment on the pivot plates, the pivot plates are provided with a color the same as that of the pipe, the longitudinal pipes and the cross pipe. By making die cast products portion of constituent parts, the fabrication cost of the vehicle body frame can be reduced.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2001Date of Patent: September 28, 2004Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Shinsuke Mochizuki, Masahiko Nakagawa, Eitarou Koya
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Patent number: 6793031Abstract: The present invention is directed to reducing the amount of exposed hydraulic lines and the like in a vehicle such as a motorcycle. Embodiments of the invention utilize the frame tubing to route the hydraulic lines through the fame to different parts of the vehicle. Different fittings are used to connect the hydraulic lines from the frame tubing to external lines. In accordance with an aspect of the present invention, an apparatus for routing a line through a vehicle frame tube comprises a line including an end portion configured to protrude from a side opening through a wall of the vehicle frame tube. The end portion of the line has at an end a fitting for coupling with an external line. A tube extension is configured to be attached to the wall of the vehicle frame tube around the side opening and to surround the end portion of the line. The tube extension is coupled with the fitting at the end of the line.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2001Date of Patent: September 21, 2004Assignee: Paramount Custom CyclesInventor: Aaron Greene
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Patent number: 6789814Abstract: An aerodynamic frame for a bicycle. A head tube extends from a main frame and mounts a front fork of the bicycle. A down tube depends from the main frame, bifurcates, and straddles a rear wheel of the bicycle. A pair of rear wheel stays extend from the down tube and straddle and mount the rear wheel of the bicycle and mount a pedal assembly of the bicycle. A seat tube extends from the main frame and mounts a seat of the bicycle. The main frame, the down tube, the pair of rear wheel stays, and the seat tube are streamlined airfoil-shaped for aerodynamics. A forwardmost facing surface of the head tube is vertically wedge-shaped for aerodynamics.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2003Date of Patent: September 14, 2004Inventor: Jose Bouloy
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Publication number: 20040173990Abstract: A low drag bike seat stem comprised of a joint and a briolette shaped tube; an insertion cap being built in the seat tube; the height of the tube being adjustable and secured in the seat tube; the joint being connected to the upper end of the briolette shaped tube; and a clamping hole in shape related to that of the briolette shaped tube being provided in the center of the insertion cap for the tube to be fully inserted through the insertion cap.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 4, 2003Publication date: September 9, 2004Inventor: Yu Ju Kao
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Publication number: 20040173991Abstract: L-shaped frame member and frame for a wheelchair. The frame member comprises a first arm with a first cross section, a second arm with a second cross section, and a knee-shaped composite element. The first arm is connected to the second arm via the knee-shaped composite element. A firm connection between the first arm and the knee-shaped composite element and a solid connection between the second arm and the knee-shaped composite element being formed by portions of a mounting glue).Type: ApplicationFiled: March 4, 2004Publication date: September 9, 2004Applicant: KUSCHALL AGInventors: Simon B. L. Watterton, Rainer Kueschall
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Patent number: 6764090Abstract: A bicycle includes front and rear wheels, which are mounted respectively on front and rear ends of a bicycle frame. The bicycle frame has an inclined main tube that extends rearwardly and downwardly from a head tube to a seat tube. A drive sprocket is disposed on the main tube, and is located between the head tube and the seat tube. As such, the total length of the bicycle can be shortened.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2003Date of Patent: July 20, 2004Inventor: Liang-Fong Pan
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Publication number: 20040130122Abstract: A process for making a bicycle frame part includes the steps of placing a one-piece metallic tube blank in a die; hydraulically forming the tube blank by introducing a hydraulic pressure into the tube blank to deform and expand the tube blank so as to form at least one expanded wall part projecting from the tube blank along a direction different from the direction of extension of the tube blank; and machining the expanded wall part to form a connection tube. A bicycle frame includes a plurality of frame parts connected to each other. At least one of the frame parts is formed via the aforementioned process, and includes a tube body and at least one connection tube projecting from the tube body in a direction different from the direction of extension of the tube body.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 3, 2003Publication date: July 8, 2004Applicant: Giant Manufacturing Co., Ltd.Inventor: Owen Chang
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Publication number: 20040108681Abstract: A bottom bracket assembly includes a hollow bottom bracket having two protrusions extending an inside of the hollow bottom bracket and an axle rotatably extends through the bottom bracket and includes two ridges such that two retaining rings are mounted to the axle and stopped by the two protrusions. Each retaining member has a stop flange extending from an inside thereof. Steel balls are retained in a space between the retaining rings, the flanges, the axle and the ridges.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 6, 2002Publication date: June 10, 2004Inventor: Cheng-Hsun Chiang
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Patent number: 6742795Abstract: A handlebar for two-wheeled vehicle has a channel portion and two bent internal tubes wherein the channel portion has an internal diameter and the two bent internal tubes each have an external diameter slightly smaller than the internal diameter of the channel portion, the two bent internal tubes being disposed within the hollow portion with surfaces of the bent internal tubes in contact with the surface of the channel portion, whereby the thickness of the handlebar is increased in order to enhance the strength thereof.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2002Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: Hsin Lung Accessories Co., Ltd.Inventor: Jim Liao
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Patent number: 6742796Abstract: A bicycle frame includes a connection part securely mounted to the top of the seat tube and two branches extend from the connection part so as to respectively connected to the top tube and the seat stay by adhesive respectively. A bottom bracket is connected to a bottom of the seat tube and has the other two branches so as to be respectively adhered to the down tube and the chain stay. A head tube is connected to the conjunction of the top tube and the down tube, and a hook plate is connected to the conjunction of the seat stay and the chain stay. The respective axes of the connection part, the seat tube and the head tube are parallel with each other.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2002Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: D'Hoch CorporationInventors: Ivy Ho, Tod Wood
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Publication number: 20040084873Abstract: A handlebar for two-wheeled vehicle has a channel portion and two bent internal tubes wherein the channel portion has an internal diameter and the two bent internal tubes each have an external diameter slightly smaller than the internal diameter of the channel portion, the two bent internal tubes being disposed within the hollow portion with surfaces of the bent internal tubes in contact with the surface of the channel portion, whereby the thickness of the handlebar is increased in order to enhance the strength thereof.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 30, 2002Publication date: May 6, 2004Applicant: Hsin Lung Accessories Co., Ltd.Inventor: Jim Liao
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Publication number: 20040070168Abstract: An adjustable air cushion bicycle seat hydraulic ram system mounted within the seat post of a bicycle with one end of the ram attached to the bicycle seat, and the other end of the ram in communication with an internal reservoir associated with an adjustable pressurized air/oil reservoir to selectively fill the internal reservoir with a pressurized air column to form an air cushion within the ram to provide the desired ride cushion.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 8, 2003Publication date: April 15, 2004Applicant: Tool Engineering & Manufacturing CompanyInventor: Paul G. McKinnon
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Patent number: 6712371Abstract: An all-terrain bicycle is comprised of a tubular frame defined by a main frame section and a front fork and a pair of rear forks, to which is removably secured a front and a rear wheel. The wheels are formed of plastics material and define a hub, a circular outer molded solid tire, and an intermediate connecting framework. The outer molded solid tire is a one-piece tire defining, when viewed in transverse cross-section, a central projecting dome merging into opposed tapered wings which are recessed from the top of the dome. An integrally molded connecting formation is provided under the dome to secure to a rim of the connecting framework. The dome defines a circumferential central rib around the outer molded tire for the displacement of the bicycle on a hard surface with the wings spaced from the hard surface. The wings constitute a wide tire support surface, together with the central rib, for the displacement of the bicycle on soft surfaces such as sand, grass, etc.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2001Date of Patent: March 30, 2004Inventor: Antoine Trubiano
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Publication number: 20040051274Abstract: This invention concerns a bicycle to which substantial modifications concerning ergotechnic positioning have been introduced in order to obtain a man/machine combination with a velocity performance higher than that of conventional racing bicycles. The substantial modifications have been introduced to the frame, to the motion transmission system, to the handlebar assembly and to the saddle assembly. The frame has triangular geometry where in the front vertex there is the handlebar assembly, in the rear vertex the propulsion assembly, and in the intermediate vertex, that is placed upwards, the saddle assembly. Between the intermediate vertex and the rear vertex of the frame, the appendices that form the rear wheel fork are located, the same wheel is locked rotationally in an intermediate position to the appendices included between the initial part and the end of said appendices.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 3, 2003Publication date: March 18, 2004Inventor: Ivano Urban
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Publication number: 20040046352Abstract: There is provided a bicycle frame comprising a first tube; a second tube extending transversely from an upper region of the first tube; a third tube extending transversely and downwardly from a lower region of the first tube, and towards the same direction as the second tube; and a two-part tube joining the respective ends of the second and third tubes, the two-part tube having a straight upper part and a curved lower part, the straight upper part being substantially vertical and the curved lower part being curved longitudinally towards the first tube such as to conform to the curvature of a bicycle wheel.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 11, 2003Publication date: March 11, 2004Inventors: Gerard Vroomen, Phillip White
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Patent number: 6695089Abstract: A motorcycle frame includes a down tube structured to be light in weight and shaped to simplify radiator piping. The down tube extends diagonally downwards from a head pipe to a front of an engine. The down tube is formed of an angular cross section pipe, with a rib being integrally formed on a front surface inner side, extending vertically. A lower half of a rear surface section of the down tube is made into a tapered section. A space is formed between the tapered section and front sections of a cylinder head and a cylinder head cover of the engine. A water hose of a radiator and an exhaust pipe are arranged in the space.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2001Date of Patent: February 24, 2004Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Eiji Adachi, Takanori Okuma
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Publication number: 20040021289Abstract: A multi-stage tube forging method for disproportionally enlarging an end section of a tube of a bicycle frame part includes the steps of (a) radially and proportionally enlarging the cross-section of the end section of the tube in a first die using a first mandrel, and (b) disproportionally varying the cross-section of the end section of the tube obtained in step (a) in a second die using a second mandrel.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 5, 2002Publication date: February 5, 2004Inventor: Ku Wu
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Patent number: 6676149Abstract: A head pipe that supports a handle for a scooter type vehicle is covered with a front cover. Article container boxes are disposed in an upper portion of a rear side of the front cover, and a parking lever is disposed below the article container boxes. Accordingly, an opening of each article container box can be made larger and it is possible to increase the capacity of each container box. Large article container boxes can be disposed in the front cover and in the vicinity of the handle. A parking lever can be disposed in the front cover and in the vicinity of the handle at a position permitting a vehicle rider to easily reach and operate the lever without requiring any forced motion.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2001Date of Patent: January 13, 2004Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Fuminori Kamemizu, Sadamichi Enjyo, Yoshinobu Honda, Katsuichi Yagisawa
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Publication number: 20030234510Abstract: A bicycle frame includes a connection part securely mounted to the top of the seat tube and two branches extend from the connection part so as to respectively connected to the top tube and the seat stay by adhesive respectively. A bottom bracket is connected to a bottom of the seat tube and has the other two branches so as to be respectively adhered to the down tube and the chain stay. A head tube is connected to the conjunction of the top tube and the down tube, and a hook plate is connected to the conjunction of the seat stay and the chain stay. The respective axes of the connection part, the seat tube and the head tube are parallel with each other.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 25, 2002Publication date: December 25, 2003Inventors: Ivy Ho, Tod Wood
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Patent number: 6666474Abstract: A suspension system provides a pair of walking beams mounted parallel to a longitudinal main frame of a vehicle subframe. The walking beams support tandem axles. The walking beams are mounted to lower outboard brackets extending from each axle. A spherical joint extending from each longitudinal end of each walking beam engages the lower outboard brackets. Each walking beam is constrained against fore-aft movement through a pair of watts linkages. The watts linkages are separated by a lateral torsion tube. Each walking beam is connected to its respective watts linkages through a revolute joint and pivot relative to the torque tube. A pair of tie-rods are attached between each watts linkages and a fixed support. The tie rods include spherical joints at each end. Each axle is further restrained by a V-rod attached to an upper bracket extending from each axle.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 2002Date of Patent: December 23, 2003Assignee: Meritor Heavy Vehicle Technology LLCInventor: Gregory D. Pavuk
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Publication number: 20030213631Abstract: An electric motor driven cycle having front and rear wheels, and a monocoque frame suspended between the front and rear wheels. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or the meaning of the claims.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 16, 2002Publication date: November 20, 2003Applicant: Electric Cycle CompanyInventor: Ely Schless
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Publication number: 20030205882Abstract: A structural member (38, 40) is designed to have a first portion having a first composite layup, a second portion having a second composite layup, and at least one center portion having at least a third composite layup such that it can flex near a desired point of the structural member. The structural member may be used as a chain stay (26) in a bicycle frame (10). The chain stays are designed to have a geometry that will allow for flexing or bending at or in the vicinity of a desired point. They may be pre-loaded for flex in both a positive and negative direction. The chain stays are designed having a varying cross sectional area. The bending or flexing location of the chain stays has a narrower height from the side view than the ends of the chain stay allowing the chain stay to flex. Additionally, the bending or flexing location has a wider width from the top view than the ends of the chain stay for additional torsional and lateral stiffness.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 25, 2002Publication date: November 6, 2003Inventor: Michael James Parkin
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Publication number: 20030197346Abstract: The chain fork (1) of a bicycle frame is designed as a single unit consisting of a fiber-reinforced polymer material. The chain fork (1) is preferably connected with and cemented to a pedal crank enclosure via an appropriate receptacle.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 18, 2002Publication date: October 23, 2003Inventors: Rolf Singenberger, Daniel Weibel
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Publication number: 20030189308Abstract: A bicycle frame comprised of a lightweight composite panel all of common thickness for simplicity of shaping desired by the user. Attached to the panel is a steering column, which is formed to receive a head set, a front fork, a handlebar and wheel. Also attached to said panel, is a chain stay member that has two supporting brackets, and a seat support assembly that can adjustably support a seat tube with an attached seat.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 8, 2002Publication date: October 9, 2003Inventors: Stephen Joseph Wegzyn, Robert Bruce Lahm
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Publication number: 20030178808Abstract: A process for making a bicycle frame part includes the steps of placing a one-piece metallic tube blank in a die; hydraulically forming the tube blank by introducing a hydraulic pressure into the tube blank to deform and expand the tube blank so as to form at least one expanded wall part projecting from the tube blank along a direction different from the direction of extension of the tube blank; and machining the expanded wall part to form a connection tube. A bicycle frame includes a plurality of frame parts connected to each other. At least one of the frame parts is formed via the aforementioned process, and includes a tube body and at least one connection tube projecting from the tube body in a direction different from the direction of extension of the tube body.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 20, 2002Publication date: September 25, 2003Inventor: Owen Chang
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Publication number: 20030141694Abstract: A bicycle including a frame member provided with a front wheel mounted on a shaft and a rear wheel mounted on a shaft, a saddle provided with a stepped tube for adjustably receiving the saddle to a rear portion of the frame member, a handlebar assembly rotatably attached to a front portion of the frame member, a fork assembly extending through the front portion of the frame member, said fork assembly being connected at one end to the handlebars and at the other end to the front wheel, a front fender and rear fender operatively associated with the frame member and extending over the front and rear wheels, respectively, a pair of pedals extending from opposite sides of the frame member, sprocket wheels connected to the pedals and the rear wheel, a drive chain for engaging the sprocket wheels, wherein the front portion of the frame member terminates in a tubular end that receives the fork assembly and the handlebars, and a lower portion of the frame member separates into two leg members which extend along opposiType: ApplicationFiled: December 27, 2002Publication date: July 31, 2003Inventor: Joaquim Matias De Oliveira
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Publication number: 20030102647Abstract: A non-motorized bicycle frame construction, comprising anti-theft apparatus which is a permanent integral part of the bicycle frame when constructed.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 13, 2002Publication date: June 5, 2003Inventor: James Vincent Morrone
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Publication number: 20030080531Abstract: A system and method for connecting dissimilar materials is described. In one embodiment, the system may be used to produce a break apart frame that includes a first section and a second part which is disengagably connected to the first part by fastening members. The first part includes a head tube, a top tube and a down tube. The second section includes a bottom bracket, a seat tube, a pair of seat stays and a pair of chain stays. A connection tube extends from the bottom bracket so as to be disengagably connected to the down tube. An end tube is connected to the seat tube and disengagably connected to the seat tube.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 27, 2002Publication date: May 1, 2003Inventor: Thomas Ritchey
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Publication number: 20030052470Abstract: A holder for a handlebar of a bicycle in accordance with the present invention includes a connecting bar having a first end secured on a stem of a bicycle and a second end having a loop attached the connecting bar. The loop is provided to receive a handlebar of a bicycle and having an axis inclined relative to and forming an acute angle with that of the stem of a bicycle. A quick release device extends through the connecting bar and is mounted on the connecting bar to selectively hold the handlebar of a bicycle in place.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 19, 2001Publication date: March 20, 2003Inventor: Tu-Kun Lee
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Publication number: 20030047369Abstract: A moving apparatus with a driving force assist mechanism traveled mainly by human power. This moving apparatus detects, in a non-contact manner, with respect to rotating portion such as traveling wheel, etc., rotation speed of the rotating portion to detect traveling state to deliver, from the driving force assist mechanism, assistant driving force corresponding to speed change information that a person who operates the moving apparatus intends to give on the basis of the detected traveling information to carry out traveling to thereby permit smooth traveling even in the case where traveling by only human power becomes difficult.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 9, 2001Publication date: March 13, 2003Applicant: SONY CORPORATION.Inventors: Ichiro Katagiri, Naomasa Sato, Tetsuo Endo, Hiroyuki Itoh
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Publication number: 20030030242Abstract: A wheeled vehicle that is convertible between a bicycle mode and a scooter mode. The cycle scooter includes a front wheel drive system with an operator seat that is movable between a lowered position that provides for comfortable operation of the vehicle in the bicycle mode, and a raised position for comfortable operation in the scooter mode. The frame includes rear and front portions that are pivotally attached and movable between a folded storage position and an extended operating position.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 13, 2001Publication date: February 13, 2003Inventor: Zenon Lopez
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Publication number: 20030025295Abstract: An apparatus for hitching two bicycles together including a first hitch which connects the apparatus to one of the bicycles and a second hitch which connects the apparatus to the second bicycle. The second hitch includes a stem which is slid through and secured to the head tube of the second bicycle after the front fork and wheel have been removed from the second bicycle.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 31, 2001Publication date: February 6, 2003Inventor: David M. Snobl
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Publication number: 20030011166Abstract: A windshield assembly for use on a motorcycle includes a lower windshield mount fastened to the triple tree of the motorcycle. A windshield is pivotally mounted to lower windshield mount. A break-away mechanism is mounted to an upper portion of the windshield and releasably couples the windshield to an arm that is directly coupled to the handlebars of the motorcycle. If a predetermined force is applied to the windshield the break-away mechanism will release the windshield from the arm allowing the windshield to pivot.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 11, 2001Publication date: January 16, 2003Applicant: Harley-Davidson Motor Company Group, Inc.Inventors: Thomas R. Wargin, Stephen L. Galbraith
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Publication number: 20030006580Abstract: A motorcycle frame assembly arranged to have a desirable amount of rigidity in both transverse and vertical directions. The frame assembly desirably includes a head pipe configured to support a front wheel and associated suspension assembly. A main tube and down tube extend in a rearward direction from the head pipe. Desirably, the main tube is elliptical in cross-section, with the longer dimension being arranged generally horizontally and the shorter dimension being arranged generally vertically. Preferably, the main tube is arcuate along its length and defines a convex outer surface portion opposing a concave outer surface portion. Preferably, the main tube is arranged such that the convex outer surface portion faces the down tube. Desirably, the main tube also extends from the head pipe such that the main tube is lower than perpendicular with respect to the head pipe.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 5, 2002Publication date: January 9, 2003Inventor: Shin Yokomizo
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Patent number: 6503589Abstract: An elongated structural member is provided, which in a specific embodiment includes an outer thin-walled shell, with at least one elongated strut member and at least one planar rib member having an outer peripheral surface disposed within the shell in a plane which is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the shell, a first portion of the outer periopheral surface of the at least one rib member contacting the inner surface of the shell and a second portion of the outer peripheral surface of the at least one rib member contacting the at least one strut member.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2000Date of Patent: January 7, 2003Inventor: Thomas M. Fritschen
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Patent number: 6494302Abstract: A vane damper, and a method for making the vane damper is disclosed. A casing including a space for at least one rotable vane divides the space into two parts. The spaces are variable because of the vane which rotates within the space. Further, a number of asymmetrical ducts connects the spaces separated by the vane with a gas accumulator space so that a medium within the spaces for damping motion of the vane can expand into the gas accumulator space against the force of a gas. The vane is produced by extruding aluminum or an aluminum containing alloy. The vane is sealed against the surfaces of the space as well as a bearing member supporting the vane.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2000Date of Patent: December 17, 2002Assignee: Ohlins Racing ABInventors: Leif Gustafsson, Lars Jansson
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Patent number: 6481522Abstract: To provide a motorcycle frame structure having a head pipe manufactured by forging that enables a significant reduction in forging costs and enables a reduction in welding costs for a front frame and a down tube. A down tube is welded to an upper tongue, a lower surface of a lower flange section and a lower tongue. A weld bead is provided and it is possible to ensure a sufficiently long weld length with regard to the weld bead. Since only the upper and lower tongues are integrally formed with the forged component, there is no need to include an undercut processing in the forging process. Accordingly, it is possible to reduce the manufacturing cost.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2000Date of Patent: November 19, 2002Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Eiji Adachi
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Publication number: 20020153693Abstract: In a motorcycle including: a seat which can be opened upward and closed, a storage box disposed under the seat for holding helmets, the surround of the storage box being enclosed by a cover, the seat is comprised of a seat bottom plate, a seat cushion and a seat cloth. The seat bottom plate is integrally formed with a seat bottom plate extension which is extensionally formed along the outer periphery and projected downwards from the outer periphery, spreading outwardly toward its distal side. A sealing element is disposed between the storage box and the seat bottom plate extension and a cover is arranged so as to externally enclose the upper part of the storage box and the seat bottom plate extension.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 29, 2002Publication date: October 24, 2002Inventor: Kousei Ohura
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Publication number: 20020148666Abstract: A drive hub configured to mount to the spokes of an off-the-shelf spoked wheel on a vehicle such as, for example, a bicycle, so as to allow said wheel to be driven by a motor mounted to the frame of the vehicle. The hub has an outer face including a channel or belt track for engaging a drive belt from the motor, and the inner side of the hub has formed therein spoke slots configured to accept and lock upon spokes situated on the front or rear wheel of the bicycle, and are situated such that the hub is self-centering upon installation, namely, when all of the slots are lined up to engage spokes on the bicycle, the hub is appropriately centered on said wheel. Each spoke slot is of a width so as to accept an individual spoke, with there being provided ridges, notches or the like in each slot for engaging and locking about the spoke to resist removal of the hub from the wheel, once mounted thereupon.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 14, 2001Publication date: October 17, 2002Inventor: Dennis R. Simons