Polycycles Patents (Class 280/282)
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Publication number: 20020113402Abstract: A human powered wheeled land vehicle is disclosed. The vehicle may utilize two or more wheels, including at least one driving wheel and one steering wheel. The vehicle is propelled by use of at least one of two drive methods. The first drive method having at least one lever which is positioned such that the operator is able to grasp the lever and move it back and forth perpendicularly to his body in a reciprocating fashion. A drive train mechanism translates reciprocating motion of the lever into rotational motion of the driving wheel. Two levers may preferably be provided so as to allow the operator to provide alternating motion of the levers. The vehicle is steered by at least one lever that is moved by the operator in a lateral motion. A steering mechanism translates lateral motion of the lever to angular direction of the steering wheel. The second drive method having a pair of rotationally mounted crank arms that are positioned such that the operator is able to rotate the crank arms.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 4, 2002Publication date: August 22, 2002Inventor: Greg Ochs
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Patent number: 6431328Abstract: A parking lever for drawing a cable for locking rear wheels of a three-wheeled vehicle is provided on the front body. A rear wheel lock mechanism for locking the rear wheels is provided on the rear body. A roll lock mechanism for locking the relative rotation between a joint shaft and a case body is provided on the joint case provided with the joint shaft and the case body. The cable for locking the rear wheels is extended over between the parking lever and the rear wheel lock mechanism. The cable for roll lock is extended over between the rear wheel lock mechanism and the roll lock mechanism. The torsion of the cable for locking rear wheels caused by relative roll between the front body and the rear body can be absorbed at a long distance as compared with the prior art. Excessive load is not applied to the cable for locking the rear wheels, and even if the joint case is miniaturized, there is less restriction to easily realize miniaturization of the body.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 2001Date of Patent: August 13, 2002Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Takuya Tagami, Takashi Ozeki
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Patent number: 6419254Abstract: Two or three-wheeled vehicle which comprises a frame, a drive system connected to the frame and provided with a motor or a pedal system, and a handlebar mounted pivotally in the frame for at least one wheel provided with a hub, wherein the hub is connected to the handlebar via a steering arm extending along the steering wheel, wherein a drive shaft extending at least into the hub of the steering wheel is connected rotatably to a part of the frame extending roughly parallel to the steering arm, and a universal coupling part is arranged between the drive shaft and the hub of the wheel, wherein the drive shaft is connected drivably to the drive system in order to obtain a compact vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 2000Date of Patent: July 16, 2002Assignee: Langenberg B.V.Inventor: Christianus Petrus Langen
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Patent number: 6409195Abstract: A sport type wheelchair. The wheelchair has two rear wheels and a front wheel. A handcrank and a sprocket and chain mechanism provide rear wheel axle chain drive. The steering is front wheel steering, operated with a steering handle attached to the front wheel.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2001Date of Patent: June 25, 2002Inventor: Robert Joss Adams
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Patent number: 6402174Abstract: Three-wheeled vehicle with an adjustable leaning and steering mechanism, permitting operator-controlled wheel and body lean as the vehicle is making a turn. The vehicle (100) has a leaning main frame (20) that carries the pedals (21) and crank assembly (22), recumbent seat (30) and rear wheel (40). Towards the front of the vehicle (100), a perpendicular axle housing (42) mounted with pivotal collar (44) allows the main frame (20) to lean right or left. Axle housing (42) carries the cantilevered steering arms (46) and adjustable steering levers (48). An axle (56) runs through the axle housing (42) and a spindle (60) and control arm (58) is pivotally connected to each end of the axle (56). Wheels (70R and 70L) are mounted on each spindle (60). Swivel tie rods (72) connect the control arms (58) of both front wheels (70R and 70L) to the main frame (20) so that when the main frame (20) is leaned, all wheels (70R, 70L and 40) lean laterally, producing simultaneous wheel and body lean.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 2001Date of Patent: June 11, 2002Inventor: Alan Maurer
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Publication number: 20020060441Abstract: A front wheel adjustment device of a tricycle comprises a front fork, a front wheel, and a shaft. The front fork comprises two side wings, with each being provided with a connection portion. The connection portion is provided with a through hole. The front wheel is provided at the center with a shaft hole. The pivot is received in the shaft hole of the front wheel and the through holes of the front fork.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 28, 2000Publication date: May 23, 2002Inventor: Pin -Chieh Feng
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Patent number: 6375208Abstract: A combined skateboard scooter/exerciser comprises a handlebar, a front body, a transmission device, a wheel device, and a board. A rear end of the front body is pivoted to the board and includes a slot through which a steering rod extends. The steering rod is attached to the handlebar to move therewith and movable along the slot. The transmission device is engaged with the steering rod and the wheel device such that back and forth movement of the steering rod urges the wheel device to move forward via transmission by the transmission device. The wheel device includes wheels attached to front and rear ends of the board. The user may stand on the board and operate the handlebar and the steering rod to move back and forth to thereby move the combined skateboard scooter/exerciser forward while achieving a rowing-like exercise effect.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2001Date of Patent: April 23, 2002Inventor: Jung Tien Lee
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Patent number: 6352274Abstract: A three-wheeled occupant propelled vehicle is described. A seat is centrally suspended on a longitudinal axis, so that by leaning from side to side, the occupant may impart a steering motion by way of linkages between the seat and the steered front wheels. Said longitudinal axis is disposed vertically above the center of mass of the body of the occupant, so that, by the force of gravity, the occupant tends to stay in a vertical position unless a leaning motion is imparted, and straight line directional control is thus maintained. Motive power is provided by hand-actuated reciprocating levers coupled by a linking means to a driven rear wheel. Power is applied in both the fore and aft strokes of said levers. One embodiment of the present invention includes a variable ratio drive.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 2001Date of Patent: March 5, 2002Inventor: Brian Lee Redman
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Publication number: 20020005624Abstract: A pedal driving mechanism for a bicycle which contains structurally improved pedal arms on which pedals are installed to increase the rotary radius of the pedals during the running of the bicycle to obtain optimum driving energy with minimum physical energy consumption, wherein the structure of pedaling mechanism defines a joining line formed by the tooth-coupling of a fixing gear and a rotary gear with the axle line of a driving arm at a right angle, and the trace of the linkage formed by a connection arm and a connection link is set to move in a spiral motion forced to rotate with respect to the center of the fixing gear.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 5, 2001Publication date: January 17, 2002Inventors: Byung-Nam Kang, Jong-Suk Kim, Hye-Jong Park
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Patent number: 6315314Abstract: The frame structure has two adjacent bent pipes (1, 2) which extend in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle and are inclined towards each other. In the illustrated side view, only the bent pipe (1) on the left side of the vehicle can be seen. This bent pipe (1) has a shape similar to that of a bowsaw. The idea underlying the invention is that the weight of the vehicle occupants acts on the bent pipe structure and is deflected into forces which push the two ends (4; 6) of the pipe away from each other. These deflected forces are in turn absorbed by pipes (10, 11) arranged in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle and which indirectly interconnect the ends of the bent pipes (1, 2) absorbing the traction forces therebetween. The two bent pipes (1, 2) are inclined towards each other and thus form a gable, seen in the longitudinal direction.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 1999Date of Patent: November 13, 2001Inventor: Rudolf Frey
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Patent number: 6312001Abstract: A motive vehicle comprises a frame, a front wheel, two rear wheels, a seat, a handle, a headset, and a pedal device. A front sprocket is coupled to the pedal device and a rear sprocket is connected to a differential. The motive vehicle is powered by human pedaling. The differential communicates with the rear wheels to allow the vehicle to turn on a zero turn radius. The wheels are attached to the frame with an attachment apparatus that allows for easy detachability. The seat is also detachable and adjustable. Brake cams are attached to the frame, and engage the rear wheels when the bike is pedaled backwards. An alternative embodiment comprises a multiple operator motive vehicle, wherein a rear vehicle with two wheels is coupled to a front vehicle having three wheels. Further, another two-wheeled follower unit may be coupled to the first rear vehicle for a greater number of riders. Additional attachments may also be made.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2000Date of Patent: November 6, 2001Inventor: Robert W. Boyer
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Publication number: 20010035626Abstract: Tricycle and intermediate frame for tricycle. The tricycle includes a rear axle, rear wheels coupled to free ends of the rear axle, a rear seat, and a rear frame coupled to the rear axle and to the rear seat. A front frame includes a fork tube, and the front frame and the rear frame are detachably connectable to each other. The tricycle also includes a handlebar, and a fork coupled to the handle bar. The fork is rotatably coupled to the fork tube. A front wheel includes pedal cranks and is rotatably coupled to the fork. A second seat and a holding element are also included. The intermediate frame is arranged to support the second seat and the holding element, and is detachably coupled between the front frame and the rear frame.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 21, 2001Publication date: November 1, 2001Applicant: Heinz Kettler GmbH & Co. Of Ense-Parsit, GERMANYInventor: Heinz Kettler
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Patent number: 6299189Abstract: An exerciser bike includes a frame having a front wheel and a handle for steering the front wheel, and includes two rear wheel axles. Two rear wheels are rotatably secured to the rear wheel axles by two ratchet sprocket wheels. Two foot supports each has a middle portion pivotally coupled to the frame. Two chains are engaged on the ratchet sprocket wheels and each has two ends both secured to the foot support. The exerciser bike may be turned with the rear wheels when the rear wheels are actuated with different speeds. So, this invention is safe, stable and easy to be controlled.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2000Date of Patent: October 9, 2001Inventor: Yu-Chao Chao
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Patent number: 6247714Abstract: A recumbent cycling apparatus is provided that includes a frame structure, wheels rotatably attached to supporting the frame structure, and a central frame element configured to absorb and reduce the forces transmitted through the frame structure to a user. The frame structure has a front frame section and a back frame section that are substantially parallel to the ground. The central frame element is a curved elongated member composed of chromoly steel that is attached to the front frame section and the back frame section and extends therebetween. The central frame element is configured to allow the front frame section and the back frame section to move substantially independently in response forces exerted on the wheels. The central frame element is disposed in a substantially vertical plane above the back frame section and the front frame section and is substantially perpendicular thereto. A pair of recumbent seats are mounted on the back frame section in a side-by-side relationship.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 1998Date of Patent: June 19, 2001Assignee: Happijac CompanyInventors: C. Martin Rasmussen, Larry L. Howell, Chris Johnson, Kirk Johnson, Kyle Hansen, Toni CedeƱo, Doug Hayes, Jim Arnold
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Patent number: 6203043Abstract: A semi-recumbent, human powered, four wheel cycle has an independent front suspension and wheels that are turned. A conventional bicycle chain drive drives one or both front wheels. The rear wheels are also driven in additional embodiments.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 1999Date of Patent: March 20, 2001Inventor: James A. Lehman
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Patent number: 6193253Abstract: A hand-operable operating assembly for a vehicle, such as a three-wheeled cycle. The drive mechanism comprises opposing members, such as oppositely oriented crank handles. A sprocket and chain assembly connects the hand crank to the pedal crank on the cycle. A grip is attached to each crank handle. The grip is pivotally attached to the crank handle and is also connected to a cable system that steers the front guidance wheel on the cycle. Thus, the front wheel is turned by simply pivoting one or both of the grips. To keep the grips properly oriented for the operator rearward of the crank handles, the crank handles are rotatably attached to the crank rods. A timing belt is provided on each crank handle to maintain the correct orientation of the handle as it orbits the crankshaft. Thus, the cycle can be steered and driven simultaneously by operation of the grips. Moreover, the grips are positioned so that they pivot about their central transverse axes.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 1999Date of Patent: February 27, 2001Inventor: Robert V. Barnett
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Patent number: 6179314Abstract: A human-powered ride-on vehicle for a rider includes an integrated body/frame element having a seat for the rider formed thereon; a pair of spaced-apart front wheels mounted to the body/frame element, wherein at least one of the front wheels is driven by the rider; a rear wheel mounted on the body/frame; and a steering mechanism to steer said the wheel, wherein the steering mechanism includes a control stick mounted for shifting movement; and a linkage between the control stick and the rear wheel is operable to shift the rear wheel in a predetermined direction corresponding to the control stick when the control stick is shifted.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 1999Date of Patent: January 30, 2001Assignee: Columbia-Inland CorporationInventor: Michael D. Jones
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Patent number: 6176555Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for controlling the handling dynamics of a vehicle, in particular a commercial vehicle, fitted with an ABS system. The method requires varying the brake pressure of the vehicle in the event of an impending wheel lock up to prevent excessive wheel slippage. The method and apparatus are configured such that any decrease in the roll-over stability of the vehicle while negotiating a curve is detected with an ABS system.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 1998Date of Patent: January 23, 2001Assignee: Knorr-Bremse Systeme fuer Nutzfahrzeuge GmbHInventor: Akos Semsey
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Patent number: 6161847Abstract: A child's ride-on toy has a rear mounted parent assist handle and is convertible to a child's rocker toy by rotating the handle about a rear axle to a position beneath the ride-on toy to serve as rocker rails. The handle can also be removed. The combination rocker and tricycle may thus be used either as a child's riding vehicle (with or without a parent-assist handle) or as a stationary rocker toy. As a child's tricycle, the handle is locked in an upright position extending rearwardly from the rear axle of the tricycle and positioned at a height convenient for a parent to control the motion of the tricycle. When the parent assist handle is no longer required it can be removed. To convert to a child's rocker the handle is rotated about the rear axle and positioned beneath the tricycle so that the handle portions support the tricycle.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 1999Date of Patent: December 19, 2000Assignee: Mattel, Inc.Inventors: William R. Howell, Kurt J. Huntsberger
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Patent number: 6161858Abstract: The invention discloses a mountain bike frame. In this mountain bike frame, a connection plate is fixed onto one end of the rear fork and is connected to the frame by two rotatable joints and a shock absorber. The main objective of the invention is to provide a mountain bike frame which is able to effectively lower the impact of shocks, to get rid of the phenomena of chain slip and reversal, and is able to reduce the "vibration" by a strong structure.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 1999Date of Patent: December 19, 2000Assignee: Merida Industry Co., Ltd.Inventor: Diing-Huang Tseng
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Patent number: 6149170Abstract: A rehabilitation device which includes a frame supported on a plurality of wheels. The frame includes a longitudinal member supported on a rear wheel and transverse member supported on a pair of front wheels. The longitudinal member includes a descending section which is located substantially close to the ground to facilitate getting on and off the rehabilitation device, without having to substantially raise a leg. The frame assembly may be connected using the interconnect fitting. The interconnect fitting enables quick assembly of assembly and disassembly of the device so that the device may be transported as two lightweight, compact pieces.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 1998Date of Patent: November 21, 2000Assignee: David A. DotsonInventor: David A. Dotson
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Patent number: 6135479Abstract: A tricycle pushing device for pushing a child's tricycle therewith. The tricycle pushing device includes an elongate shaft having opposite proximal and distal ends with a pushing head coupled to the distal end of the shaft. The pushing head has a generally U-shaped upper portion and a lower portion. The upper portion of the pushing head comprises a spaced apart and substantially parallel pair of elongate fingers defining a generally U-shaped slot therebetween designed for receiving therein a rear post of a tricycle. The lower portion of the pushing head has front, intermediate and rear regions. The front and rear regions are spaced apart from one another to define a space therebetween designed for receiving therein a perimeter lip downwardly depending from a foot kick plate of a tricycle.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 1999Date of Patent: October 24, 2000Inventors: Richard A. Tibay, Cynthia M. Tibay
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Patent number: 6120048Abstract: A tricycle is provided with an auxiliary steering device capable of manipulating the steering of the handlebars of the tricycle. The device is mounted on the rear end of the rear frame of the tricycle such that the device is connected with the handlebars of the tricycle by two connection rods. The steering of the handlebars of the tricycle is manipulated by turning the auxiliary steering device leftwards or rightwards.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 1997Date of Patent: September 19, 2000Inventor: Hsing Li
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Patent number: 6102834Abstract: A flush-mounted device for an exercise device includes a generator having a rotator contacting the flywheel which is connected to the pulley by a belt so that when rotating the crank, the generator is operated. A plurality of bulbs are connected in the casing mounted over the pulley and the flywheel, and the bulbs are electrically connected to the generator so that the bulbs turn on when the generator is operated. The casing has a transparent portion through which the flywheel can be seen which has reflectors attached thereto.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 1998Date of Patent: August 15, 2000Inventor: Ping Chen
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Patent number: 6095543Abstract: A riding toy shown in the form of a tricycle in which major component parts are configured for manufacture by injection molding of a synthetic polymeric material, the major component parts including a front wheel having webs, ribs and flanges arranged for injection molding in one piece, a frame having a web, ribs and flanges arranged for injection molding in one piece, and rear wheels arranged for injection molding in two readily assembled unitary members. The tricycle includes a skid on the frame adjacent the rear wheels for preventing the tricycle from flipping over backwards during rearward rotating movements induced by the rider of the tricycle.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 1998Date of Patent: August 1, 2000Assignee: Amloid CorporationInventors: Daniel P. McMahon, Michael P. Albarelli, Jr.
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Patent number: 6089587Abstract: A tricycle for children is provided with a step which is mounted under the saddle of the tricycle and is provided with a front peripheral wall and a rear peripheral wall having two hooks to catch the rear wheel frame of the tricycle. The step is provided at the center of the upper side thereof with a hollow cylinder in which two fasteners are received such that one end of each of the two fasteners is fastened with the middle frame of the tricycle, and that other end of each of the two fasteners is fastened with the underside of the step. The step is intended to accommodate one or both feet of a child seated on the saddle of the tricycle so as to prevent the foot or feet of the child from being hurt by the tricycle front wheel in motion or the pedals in operation.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 1999Date of Patent: July 18, 2000Inventor: Hsing Li
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Patent number: 6089586Abstract: A children's ride-on toy convertible between tricycle and a scooter configurations includes a curved backbone having an upper end segment and a lower end segment defining an upwardly facing step area, rear wheels rotatably mounted to the lower end segment, a front fork including a head post rotatably mounted to the upper end segment and a front wheel rotatably mounted to the fork. The toy also has a rigid frame member with first and second ends and a seat area between those ends, the first end being connected by a two-axis pivot joint to the head post, This allows the frame member to be moved between a first, tricycle, position wherein the frame member extends over the backbone away from the head post such that the seat area faces upwardly away from the backbone and a second, scooter, position wherein the frame member extends up in front of the head post to a location spaced above the backbone thereby exposing the step area.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 1998Date of Patent: July 18, 2000Assignee: Elliot RudellInventors: Elliot Rudell, Joseph Cemansky, George Foster
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Patent number: 6079724Abstract: A tricycle includes a base plate, and two pedals and a brake pedal arranged near the rear end of the base plate. The pedals are each connected to a rack rod. The base plate has two lugs at both sides, and a rotary shaft is pivotally mounted at the lugs. The rotary shaft includes a friction roller in the middle and two ratchet wheels near both ends thereof. Compression springs are disposed between the base plate and the three pedals. By pressing the two pedals, the ratchet wheels on the rotary shaft will rotate to cause two large wheels mounted at both ends of the rotary shaft to move forward. The ratchet rods are reset by the springs to get ready for the next action. The brake pedal includes a brake lever at a lower end thereof. When the brake lever displaces downwardly, the friction roller will be pressed to stop rotation of the rotary shaft. A wheel mounting frame is disposed near a front end of the base plate for mounting a small wheel.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 1998Date of Patent: June 27, 2000Inventor: Idea Lin
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Patent number: 6070894Abstract: An arm-powered wheeled vehicle that supports a rider in a prone or kneeling position to use crank arms radially displaced by 180 degrees to influence rear propulsion. Using this rider positioning and crank system maximizes the relatively low power available from the human body. Further, providing two steering devices and a wide range of gears allows the use of this arm-powered vehicle for traveling over varied terrain with the greatest possible control and safety.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 1997Date of Patent: June 6, 2000Inventor: Michael Wayne Augspurger
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Patent number: 6068278Abstract: A method and apparatus for connecting side-by-side recumbent bicycles to form a quadracycle. The apparatus includes a pair of recumbent bicycles having front wheels and rear wheels. The bicycles have substantially rigid frame members supporting the front wheels and the rear wheels, and the frame members are aligned substantially upright and parallel. The apparatus also includes a single rigid connecting member located between the frame members and attached thereto such that substantially upright planes defined by the frame members always remain substantially parallel. The connecting member has an attachment means to at least one of the frame members such that the frame member rotates relative to the connecting member within a substantially upright plane about the attachment means in order to maintain the front wheels and the rear wheels in contact with an uneven road surface as the quadracycle moves over it.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 1998Date of Patent: May 30, 2000Inventors: Ronald W. Kock, Jeffrey W. Kock
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Patent number: 6062581Abstract: A human-powered recumbent tricycle with an articulated frame that permits leaning of the single-wheeled front sub-frame (10) during turns. While the seat (20) and pedal crank (18) move the driver's body with the leaning front sub-frame (10), the two-wheeled rear sub-frame (71) carries the handlebar (90) for optimum driver control of vehicular orientation. Steering of the front wheel (16) is accomplished by two cables (60L, 60R) within housings (61L, 61R) that provide immunity from distortions caused by articulation (100) rotations during leaning. Front wheel (16) drive utilizes a universal joint hub (30) for continuous power drive and no chain (40, 50) twist throughout the full turning radius. High seat (20) height and narrow wheelspan of the two rear wheels (80L, 80R) provide for improved visibility and traffic penetration on congested urban streets. A low cargo rack (75) is provided such that carrying cargo lowers the overall center of gravity and increases vehicular stability.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 1996Date of Patent: May 16, 2000Inventor: William J. Stites
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Patent number: 6036210Abstract: A handcycle supports a rider in a forward leaning ("modified prone") position, with the feet of the rider in straps above the rear axle, and the arms hanging generally downwardly toward a pedal assembly. The pedal assembly is generally at about the chest portion of the rider, which increases the leverage that can be applied to rotate the hand pedals, thereby increasing the speed of the bicycle. The central bar of the cycle frame extends upwardly and forwardly to support a rider at an angle of between about 15 and 45 degrees, and more preferably at an angle of about 30 degrees from the rear axle. Appropriate padding and supports can be provided along the mid-portion of the bar to support the chest of the rider at the proper angle. A damper assembly connected between the front fork and the frame of the cycle provides variation in dampening for front wheel stability in changing road conditions. The gear shift and brakes are also easily accessible.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 1998Date of Patent: March 14, 2000Inventor: David V. Lee
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Patent number: 6012733Abstract: An advanced frame design primarily for mountain bikes that utilizes an advanced construction of lightweight tubes to create bicycle framework of greater strength without added weight. The frame design utilizes pairs of thin tubes arranged within the bike frame for increased strength and flexibility. The top tube and down tubes are of double tube construction in the invention. Bridgework tubes are smaller tubes that are used to connect portions of the various doubled tubes to one another to provide a secondary support structure for the frame.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 1997Date of Patent: January 11, 2000Inventor: Randall F. Rafoth
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Patent number: 6012732Abstract: A combination exercise and land travel device includes a forwardly facing pedalling station from which a first operator propels the device and a steering control at the pedalling station. The device further includes a rowing station usable by a second operator to provide further propulsion for the device in addition to that provided at the pedalling station.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 1997Date of Patent: January 11, 2000Inventor: Steven Potter
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Patent number: 5941548Abstract: A tricycle has two non-steerable rear wheels connected to a rear frame structure, and a single steerable front wheel connected to a front frame structure. The front frame structure includes a horizontal tubular frame element extending underneath the rear frame structure for swingable connection to the rear frame structure, such that the front frame structure can lean away from a normal upright position centered between the rear wheels. During a turning maneuver the leaning capability is advantageous in maintaining the rear wheels in pressure contact with the road surface so as to enhance the stability of the tricycle. A manually-operated locking mechanism is provided for releasably locking the front frame structure in its normal upright centered position. The locking mechanism keeps the front frame structure in a stable mode when the person is mounting or dismounting the tricycle, and also when the tricycle is being driven at low speeds in which there is minimal danger of the tricycle tipping or overturning.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 1997Date of Patent: August 24, 1999Inventor: Peter Owsen
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Patent number: 5924713Abstract: An auxiliary steering assembly of a tricycle is composed of two fastening pieces of the front steering handle, a fastening tube of the seat mount fastened with the body frame of the tricycle, and an auxiliary handlebar fastened at the bottom end thereof with the fastening tube of the seat mount. Two connection rods are fastened between the front steering handle and the auxiliary handlebar such that the connection rods can be manipulated by the auxiliary handlebar to control the steering of the front steering handle.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 1997Date of Patent: July 20, 1999Inventor: Hsing Li
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Patent number: 5911427Abstract: A vehicle 10 powered by a sail 90 as well as by pedals 66 and 48 comprises a tandem bicycle with a stoker seat 38 in line with and behind a captain seat 32 and a vertical mast 86 stepped between the seats, the sail 90 being attached to and between the mast 86 and a horizontal boom 88 rotatably attached to the mast 86 and controlled by means of a rope and pulley system 115, lateral support of the vehicle 10 being provided by wheels 104 laterally displaced from the centerline of the vehicle 10 on each side of the vehicle 10, the seats 32 and 38 having seat backs 34 and 40 and located far enough behind the pedals 48 and 66 to provide a recumbent or semi-recumbent position for the operators.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 1997Date of Patent: June 15, 1999Inventor: Arthur W. Lenz, Jr.
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Patent number: 5909889Abstract: Vehicles having wheels of different diameter sizes that are mounted with different eccentricities relative to each other. The twofold variability afforded by the wheel diameter and eccentricity disparities allows a vast array of possible two, three and four wheel vehicles, each having unique oscillatory patterns. A bicycle embodiment has differently-sized front and back wheels that are eccentrically mounted on their respective axle hubs by a differing offset amount with respect to each other. A tricycle embodiment has a front wheel with a different diameter than that of the back wheels, and the hub eccentricities of both wheels also differ with respect to each other. The hubs are arranged on an axle so as to be 180.degree. out of phase relative to each other. One possible four wheel embodiment has front wheels with a different diameter than that of the back wheels, and the hub eccentricity of the front wheels also differs from that of the back wheels. Both sets of hubs are arranged so as to be 180.degree.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 1997Date of Patent: June 8, 1999Inventor: Warren H. Larson
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Patent number: 5904363Abstract: A children's tricycle is composed of a front frame, a rear frame, and a connection rod for fastening detachably the front frame and the rear frame. The front end of the connection rod is detachably fastened with the front frame in conjunction with a fastening jacket. The connection rod is provided at the midsegment thereof with a plurality of fastening holes for fastening a seat in conjunction with a plurality of fastening bolts. The rear frame has a bracing body provided with a recessed portion in which the rear end of the connection rod is received.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 1997Date of Patent: May 18, 1999Inventor: Hsing Li
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Patent number: 5901973Abstract: A foot-pedal operated cart includes a dual derailleur transmission system operated by a pair of multi-function control handles. The control handles each include a pair of hand-operated actuators for controlling a ratchet and pawl mechanism for respectively indexing the derailleurs over a pair of speed change sprocket clusters. The control handles are also connected to a steering system and braking system to allow a driver to control each system via the control handles.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 1996Date of Patent: May 11, 1999Inventor: Michael Warren
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Patent number: 5863058Abstract: An adult tricycle is provided comprised of a standard conventional adult tricycle and a double occupancy child seat connected with the operator's portion of the vehicle. In this configuration a child or children would be able to sit in a safe environment behind the operator's seat. The child's seat includes a padded seat with seat belts, and an enclosed front, sides, and back, in order to prevent accidental entanglement between the passengers and any of the moving parts. With the seating area being part of the operator portion of the tricycle, as opposed to a trailer-style, the tricycle achieves much greater stability and security for both operator and passengers.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 1995Date of Patent: January 26, 1999Inventor: Charles A. Jinks
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Patent number: 5788254Abstract: A light weight, stowable golf cart powered by a pedaled drive train. An enclosed box frame supports three extra wide, non-pneumatic tires which are pedal powered through a push button controlled, multi-speed transmission and separate endless chain and belt drive linkages. A rear differential transfers drive power to split rear axles and the rear wheels to enhance maneuverability. Fabric fenders mount over the rear wheels. A fabric semi-recumbant seat and bag support adjust fore and aft along a railed track. A tiller handle mounts to a head tube containing pre-mounted bearings. Cable controlled front caliper brakes mount to a front fork and wheel. Foot controlled brakes operate through the multi-speed transmission. The cart disassembles for shipping, storage and transport.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 1997Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Inventor: John Davis
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Patent number: 5782480Abstract: A human-powered wheeled amphibious vehicle includes a substantially planar buoyant base member upon which the rider sits while pedaling to turn the rear wheels of the vehicle. The rear wheels have inner-tube-like pneumatic tires and blades and/or paddle structure for improved traction in water. A single front wheel is supported on the base member by a turntable which is oscillated by moving a pair of handles, each mounted in a slot in the base member and reciprocable fore and aft.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 1995Date of Patent: July 21, 1998Inventor: Reuben Phillips
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Patent number: 5765871Abstract: A tricycle has a fourth and rear supporting wheel at a distance from and a position above the usual rear tricycle wheels so that the tricycle may be tipped to raise to simulate a wheelie. The distance between the usual rear tricycle wheels and the front wheel is adjustable, so that the maximum wheelie angle may be selected according to the child's age and proficiency. The seat may be moved to make it easier or more difficult to tip the tricycle when the child shifts his body and, therefore, the center of gravity.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 1997Date of Patent: June 16, 1998Assignee: Empire Industries, Inc.Inventors: Dennis Wyman, David Wyman, Lawrence Passick
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Patent number: 5762351Abstract: A multi-track vehicle having a lean drive and locking system which is primarily activated when the direction of the vehicle is changed by steering so as to provide increased stability, rideability and efficiency of operation. The leanable multi-track vehicle has a main chassis for carrying an operator which is supported on at least three wheels which are spaced from each other, at least a pair of the wheels are located transversely to each other with respect to said main chassis. A subframe supports the pair of wheels from the main chassis such that the main chassis may lean with respect to the said subframe and the pair of wheels. A drive system is provided for leaning the main chassis with respect to the subframe, and a locking device is provided which locks the position of the main chassis with respect to the frame or prevents the main chassis from leaning in one direction or the other with respect to the subframe.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 1995Date of Patent: June 9, 1998Inventor: Wayne J. SooHoo
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Patent number: 5730453Abstract: A tricycle has two non-steerable rear wheels and a single steerable front wheel. One of the rear wheels is driven by a chain-sprocket drive system that includes a drive sprocket mounted on a front frame and a driven sprocket mounted on a rear frame. The front frame is tiltable, or swingable, from an upright position to a leaning position to minimize the potential for turnover of the tricycle during turning maneuvers or riding on rough terrain. Special idler sprockets are provided for the drive chain, to keep the chain in mesh with the drive sprocket when the front frame is in a leaning position.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 1995Date of Patent: March 24, 1998Inventor: Peter Owsen
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Patent number: 5727801Abstract: A tandem bicycle is disclosed which comprises a frame in part, like that of a tandem bicycle with the rear like that of an adult tricycle particularly adapted to allow two people to propel the vehicle while offering the riders stability so that both occupants experience the physical benefits of propelling the vehicle. Upon an elongated frame, like that of a tandem bicycle, there are two seats, each one mounted behind a pair of handle members, one behind the other. There are also two pairs of pedals in position to be engaged by each rider. In the present invention, the mechanisms associated with the second or rear seat are operable and influence the propulsion and stopping of the vehicle, except for the rear handle members which may not be moved and do not influence steering.Type: GrantFiled: August 4, 1995Date of Patent: March 17, 1998Inventors: Santiago H. Barney, Gael A. Barney
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Patent number: 5678835Abstract: A three-wheeled vehicle has an auxiliary steering system which is made up of a front frame, a rear frame, a bearing element, a gear set, and a transmission element. The gear set comprises a first gear and a second gear. The first gear is fastened with the front frame while the second gear is fastened rotatably with the rear frame such that the second gear is engageable directly or indirectly with the first gear. The front frame can be caused to swivel in relation to the rear frame by means of the second gear which is actuated by an angular motion of the front fork of the vehicle when the handlebar of the vehicle is turned. The transmission element serves to transmit the angular motion of the front fork to the second gear. The auxiliary steering system is therefore capable of causing the center of gravity of a rider of the vehicle in motion to move toward a direction in which the handlebar of the vehicle is turned, thereby causing the centrifugal force exerting on the vehicle rider to be canceled out.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 1995Date of Patent: October 21, 1997Assignee: National Science CouncilInventors: Cheng-Kuo Sung, Kuo-Hong You
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Patent number: 5568935Abstract: A recumbent cycle with improved steering and drive assemblies is provided. The recumbent cycle is of the tricycle type having two rear wheels spaced-apart and rotatably supported on an axle and a single front wheel. A frame assembly, including a seat disposed in a recumbent position and fixed to a tubular frame, is pivotally attached to the axle, and includes a forward mount for rotatably supporting the front wheel. A pedal/crank drive is included for rotating the front wheel and, therefore, propel the cycle. A steering assembly is also provided for pivoting and tilting the frame assembly with respect to the rear axle. The frame and the seat tilt into the turn as the frame is pivoted relative to the rear axle. The front wheel being carried on the frame assembly, pivots along with the frame assembly to effectively point the front wheel in the intended direction of travel, and therefore steer the cycle.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 1995Date of Patent: October 29, 1996Inventor: William P. Mason
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Patent number: 5568934Abstract: The adjustable tricycle of the present invention encompasses a body having a front and a rear, a front wheel rotatably attached to the front of the body, a handle bar member pivotally connected to the front of the body for steering the front wheel, a pivotable link mounted on the body; a pair of rear wheels rotatably mounted on the pivotable link, and a positioning device pivotally connected to the pivotable link for controlling the position of the body with respect to the rear wheels. The pivotable link and pivoting positioning device form an angular positioning device which controls the position of the body with respect to the rear wheels. In the preferred embodiment, the positioning device is a support bar capable of interlocking the rear end of the body in at least two locations.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 1995Date of Patent: October 29, 1996Assignee: Roadmaster Corp.Inventor: Duane J. Niemeyer