Extensible And Knockdown Patents (Class 280/287)
  • Publication number: 20110139530
    Abstract: A foldable electrically powered vehicle is disclosed. In one embodiment, a foldable electrically powered vehicle includes a foldable chassis frame having members connected using interlocking elements such that the foldable chassis frame is folded by unlocking each interlocking element connecting the members. The vehicle also includes a front fork interlocked with the first member of the foldable chassis frame and a swing arm interlocked with the second member of the foldable chassis frame. Moreover, the vehicle includes a rear fork interlocked with the third member of the foldable chassis frame. The foldable chassis member, the front fork, the rear fork and the swing arm are detached by unlocking respective interlocking elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2010
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Inventor: Anil ANANTHAKRISHNA
  • Patent number: 7942434
    Abstract: A disengageably coupled bicycle frame, utilizing a device for coupling a first tube and a second tube, the tubes having terminal ends and tube faces defined by their terminal ends, the device comprising a first plate member having a first plate member face and a first plate member rear and a second plate member having a second plate member face and a second plate member rear, the first plate member rear fastened by a fastening means to a face of the first tube, the second plate member rear fastened by a fastening means to a face of the second tube, and the first and second plate members fastened face to face by a fastening means, the fastening means being other than a clamp, the plate members not hingedly attached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Inventor: Brian T Myers
  • Patent number: 7926606
    Abstract: A walk-substituting vehicle includes a foldable chassis, a steering mechanism, a seat assembly, and a fixing device, which is movable to a fastening portion to prevent the chassis from folding from an in-use position; the chassis includes a main part and a footrest part; the vehicle can be moved to a folded configuration, wherein the chassis is folded, and the steering mechanism and the seat assembly lie on the chassis; the fixing device includes a pulling member pivoted on the footrest part, a joining member pivoted on the pulling member, and a pushing member joined on and slideable along a receiving recessed portion of the pulling member; when the fixing device is in the fastening position, the joining member will be hooked over the main part of the chassis, and the pushing member engaged with the joining member to prevent the joining member from pivoting relative to the pulling member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Inventor: Arthur Wang
  • Patent number: 7918473
    Abstract: A wheelchair is constructed to be convertible into a push-cot. The wheelchair includes a main chassis and front and rear chassis that are removably received in the main chassis and are extendable in frontward and rearward directions. A reclining back frame is rotatably mounted to the rear side of the main chassis and is in driving coupling with the rear chassis so that when the rear chassis is extended, the reclining back frame is moved from a substantially upright position to a horizontal position to convert the wheelchair to a push-cot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Inventor: Meei-Huei Yao
  • Publication number: 20110057414
    Abstract: This disclosure relates to the design and the fabrication of various bicycle frames. Currently the majority of frames are welded from hollow metals tubes to form a rigid triangular skeleton. The concern for frame integrity has made this design the industry standard for over a century. The current design incorporates a novel array of 4 coupling devices into the 2 main suspension tubes of the bike frame, the Top tube and Down tube. The result of the current design is a frame manufactured with the 4 joints in the suspension tubes so that it can be disassembled into the 3 functional units of the bicycle. Upon reassembly, this feature allows for the substitution of tubes of different length and composition between these joints. As a result, the present design allows for greater variability in the fitting, sizing, and performance options of the bicycle frame to meet the desires of the rider.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Inventor: Robert V. West
  • Publication number: 20110042916
    Abstract: The present invention describes a unique monocoque structure of an electrically powered motorized vehicle. In one embodiment, the structure includes at least two front wheels, wherein the pitch of the front wheels can be extended; at least two rear wheels, wherein the pitch of the rear wheels can be extended; and a monocoque frame suspended between the front wheels and the rear wheels. Further, a control switch is mounted on the monocoque fame to convert two wheeled vehicle to three or four wheeled vehicle and vice versa. Furthermore, the monocoque frame is built with combinations of die-cast, extrusions of high strength plastic and light metal alloys to provide light weight and sufficient rigidity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2010
    Publication date: February 24, 2011
    Inventor: Anil ANANTHAKRISHNA
  • Patent number: 7882918
    Abstract: An improved electric motor scooter includes: a front frame; a front wheel assembly coupled to the front frame and residing on a surface; a back frame; a back wheel assembly coupled to the back frame and residing on the surface; and a center pivot mechanism coupled to the front frame and the back frame. The center pivot mechanism includes a pivot and a folding axis around which the pivot rotates. The folding axis is not perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the scooter and is tilted from the longitudinal axis at an angle. A rotation of the pivot in a direction folds the scooter vertically from the surface and moves the back wheel assembly toward the front wheel assembly according to the angle. During the folding, the front wheel assembly and the back wheel assembly each remains on the surface as the pivot rotates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Assignee: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Ryan C. Chin, Raul-David Poblano, Michael Chia Liang Lin, Arthur Joseph Petron
  • Publication number: 20110025016
    Abstract: A vehicle (1), comprising a frame (2) and a number of wheels (6, 13). The frame comprises at least two mutually connected frame parts (3, 4), a fixating means (18) and engaging means (21) with which the fixating means is in engagement with the frame parts. The frame parts are freely movable between a fixated situation, in which the vehicle is fit for use, and a non-fixated situation, in which the vehicle is not fit for use, and the fixating means can fixate the frame parts in the fixated situation, wherein the vehicle comprises a coupling (19) to which the fixating means can be coupled, the coupling comprises a securing means (21), and the securing means comprises a lock (56).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2008
    Publication date: February 3, 2011
    Inventor: Cornelis J.H. Waaijer
  • Patent number: 7862064
    Abstract: A recumbent bicycle includes a boom that telescopes within one end of a center tube in the main frame of the bicycle, and a boom clamp that encircles the center tube of the main frame at a location overlying at least a portion of the boom. The boom clamp has a locator tab which extends into a notch formed in the center tube, and within a slot formed in the boom while the boom telescopes within the center tube. The location of the slot in the boom, and the location of the tab relative to the center tube, are chosen to ensure that throughout the telescoping movement of the boom it is retained in a desired orientation with respect to the main frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: Big Cat Human Powered Vehicles, LLC
    Inventor: Paulo Camasmie
  • Patent number: 7850186
    Abstract: A bicycle frame includes a head tube, a seat tube and at least one tube connected between the head tube and the seat tube. The at least one tube includes a first longitudinal tube connected to the head tube and a second longitudinal tube connected to the seat tube, a transverse tube is connected between the first and second longitudinal tubes. The transverse tube includes a receiving space in which a lock or a light device is received.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Inventors: Yuan-Chih Cheng, Chun-Hung Lin
  • Publication number: 20100295268
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2010
    Publication date: November 25, 2010
    Applicant: RITCHEY DESIGN, INC.
    Inventor: Thomas Ritchey
  • Patent number: 7832517
    Abstract: A folding electric bicycle in one embodiment includes a front case comprising a door and two auxiliary wheels; a pivotal head tube; two handlebars; a swivel fork telescopically connected to the head tube; a front wheel; a drive mechanism comprising a folding frame, a front chain wheel, two pedals, a rear bracket, a rear wheel, first and second rear chain wheels, and a main drive chain rotatably fitted around the front chain wheel and the first rear chain wheel; a detachable seat assembly; a battery pack; an electric motor for rotating the rear wheel; and a driven wheel interconnecting the electric motor and the second rear chain wheel. For collapsing the bicycle, a driver detaches the seat assembly, folds the frame, places the frame, the seat assembly, and the rear wheel in the case, partially disposes the front wheel in the case, and closes the door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Inventor: Fu-Hsun Tsai
  • Publication number: 20100283221
    Abstract: A folding bicycle includes: a front body having a front frame and a front wheel pivotally coupled to the front frame; a rear body having a rear frame axially coupled to and freely separable from the front frame and a rear wheel pivotally coupled to the rear frame; a folding mechanism provided between the front frame and the rear frame and configured for connection thereof; and a fastening mechanism for fastening the folding mechanism to at least one of the front frame and the rear frame so as for the front frame and the rear frame to be coupled together axially, firmly, and integrally, and allowing the folding mechanism to be received in at least one of the front frame and the rear frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2009
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Inventor: Ming-Han Yeh
  • Patent number: 7828312
    Abstract: A folding bicycle includes: a front body having a front frame and a front wheel pivotally coupled to the front frame; a rear body having a rear frame axially coupled to and freely separable from the front frame and a rear wheel pivotally coupled to the rear frame; a folding mechanism provided between the front frame and the rear frame and configured for connection thereof; and a fastening mechanism for fastening the folding mechanism to at least one of the front frame and the rear frame so as for the front frame and the rear frame to be coupled together axially, firmly, and integrally, and allowing the folding mechanism to be received in at least one of the front frame and the rear frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Inventor: Ming-Han Yeh
  • Publication number: 20100207351
    Abstract: An adjustable-length seat post has a stanchion with first and second openings. The seat post has a sliding tube, a locking device and an energy transmission device. The sliding tube is guided through the first opening into the stanchion and is displaceable along a longitudinal direction of extension of the stanchion. The sliding tube is movable relative to the stanchion. An overlap between stanchion and sliding tube in a first position is greater than in a second position. The locking device can be transferred between a locking position and a releasing position, wherein in the locking position the sliding tube is fixed. The energy transmission device can transmit energy from an external actuating element to be provided to the locking device for releasing or locking. When the sliding tube is in the second position, the energy transmission device arranged guided from an external actuating element to be supplied through the second opening of the stanchion as far as the locking device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2010
    Publication date: August 19, 2010
    Inventor: Jochen Klieber
  • Patent number: 7775539
    Abstract: The preferred embodiment relates a method and device for joining structural members together, in a substantially transverse or in-line orientation, without the use of tools. This method and device can be used to join the structural members of a bicycle frame together, forming one or more sub-assemblies that can be easily disassembled or knocked down by hand for fast and easy shipping or storage. The current state of the art with knockdown bicycle frames requires detailed knowledge of bicycle assembly and components as well as a substantial amount of time to do so. The preferred embodiment does not require the use of specific tools and allows the novice to knockdown and re-assemble a bicycle frame in a few minutes, providing a quick, simple, and affordable way to temporarily store, ship, or travel with a bicycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Inventor: Jesse M. Menayan
  • Publication number: 20100201098
    Abstract: The present invention provides a spoked wheel comprising: a rim comprising a continuous series of circumferential sections each of which has opposed ends and is connected at each of its ends to an adjacent section by means of a hinge that allows the two adjacent sections to pivot with respect to each other substantially in the plane of the wheel; a hub that rotates with the rim; and a plurality of spokes extending between the hub and the rim and supporting the rim on the hub, each spoke having an end that is pivotally attached to the rim via a pivot. At least one of the spokes is movable with respect to the hub in the plane of the wheel to change the angular spacing between adjacent spokes and alter the shape of the rim between a circular shape and a non-circular shape, preferably a flattened shape. The wheel may also include a tubular tyre held on the rim and is primarily intended for use in connection with bicycles and wheelchairs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2008
    Publication date: August 12, 2010
    Applicant: Royal College of Art
    Inventor: Duncan Fitzsimons
  • Publication number: 20100127472
    Abstract: A quick release camming mechanism is used in a bicycle skewer that secures a hub to a fork. Whereas prior art quick release mechanisms have only a single lever, this mechanism has two independent levers. About half the force is required to independently push either lever closed as to push both levers closed simultaneously. Similarly, about half the force is required to open either lever individually as to open them simultaneously. A similar quick release camming mechanism also works well for a quick release seat post clamp with similar advantages. The present invention is not limited to use on bicycle components.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2010
    Publication date: May 27, 2010
    Applicant: CRANK BROTHERS, INC.
    Inventors: Carl Winefordner, Frank Hermansen
  • Patent number: 7722068
    Abstract: An adjustable seat for a children's ride-on vehicle includes a seat having a pair of tubular brackets mounted thereto. A pair of rails are positioned on the frame of the vehicle and are received within the tubular brackets so that the seat slides on the rails. A series of seat adjustment holes are formed in each rail. Locking rods have distal ends that engage the seat adjustment holes in a removable fashion so that the seat may be selectively locked in position. A locking mechanism is mounted on the seat bottom and features a housing that encloses a compression spring and a pair of squeeze buttons that engage the locking rods and urge them into the seat adjustment holes of the rails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: Radio Flyer Inc.
    Inventor: Frederick J. Michelau
  • Patent number: 7722070
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: Ritchey Designs, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas Ritchey
  • Patent number: 7699131
    Abstract: An electric wheelchair comprises: a chair assembly and a wheel assembly. The wheel assembly is mounted at the bottom of the chair assembly. The chair assembly includes a seat, a first frame, a second frame, and a third frame, which are pivotally connected to form a four-bar linkage mechanism, so that the seat and the respective frames of the electric wheelchair will be folded synchronously in the same direction when the electric wheelchair is being folded, and the folding direction of the chair assembly is vertical to the axis of the drive wheels of the wheel assembly, thus allowing the disabled user to fold the chair assembly and to disassemble the wheel assembly quickly and effortlessly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Assignee: Pihsiang Machinery Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Donald P. H. Wu
  • Patent number: 7681900
    Abstract: A quick release structure for a bicycle comprises a positioning post and an engaging member. The positioning post and the engaging member are disposed on the two tubes of the bicycle, respectively. The positioning post includes a stopping block and a spring. When the positioning post is inserted into the engaging member, the stopping block can be used together with the spring to restrict the positioning post in the engaging member, so that the two tubes of the bicycle can be assembled. When the stopping block is pressed, the positioning post can disengage from the engaging member. Hence, the quick release structure for a bicycle can be quickly assembled and disassembled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Assignee: Ming Cycle Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tai-Shan Chang
  • Publication number: 20100066055
    Abstract: A bicycle frame, has a pedal hub connection part and a frame column part. The invention also relates to a bicycle and a method and assembly kit for assembling the bicycle frame and bicycle. The bicycle frame (1) according to the invention has a separate front fork (7) with a head tube (7P) and one or several openable head tube connection parts (5) for openably connecting the front fork (7), and that the openable head tube connection part (5) has an unrotatable connection element (21) for unrotatably connecting the head tube (7P) of the front fork (7) and that the head tube (7P) has a bearing assembly (19) for rotatably connecting the front fork (7) and the head tube (7P) to each other, and that the front fork head tube (7P) is connected to the bearing assembly (19) from the inside.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2008
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Inventor: Ulf Laxstrom
  • Patent number: 7669872
    Abstract: The disclosed folding mechanism comprises a rear frame member of a bicycle, which has a combining structure positioned at a front portion thereof, wherein the combining structure includes a first joining surface; a front frame member of the bicycle, which has a second joining surface positioned at a rear portion thereof for being joined with the first joining surface; at least one pivot structure, which is provided at an edge of the combining structure for connecting the front frame member, such that the front and rear frame members can relatively move on the pivot structure; and at least one binder, which is deposited at the combining structure of the rear frame member and a position on the front frame member adjacent to the combining structure for fixing the second joining surface of the front frame member and the first joining surface of the rear frame member at a combining position where the two joining surfaces contact mutually.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: Cycling & Health Tech Industry R & D Center
    Inventors: Alfred Huang, Wen-Pin Chiu, Yung-Chen Lai, Yu-Che Huang
  • Patent number: 7658252
    Abstract: Wheeled riding vehicles, including tricycles, with extremely thin stowed profiles are provided, which in one embodiment, include movable, collapsible tires/wheel axle assemblies, as well as folding frame parts and a unique handle that is removable and stowable within the vehicle frame when not used. The riding vehicle hangs totally flat on the wall, or fits in car trunks easily. One version is pedal powered, and a second embodiment provides for an integrated propulsion linkage providing for battery or motor power to the rear most wheels when they are moved into their operative position. The rear tire wheel assemblies also may be stowed and folded compactly inside a rear storage compartment with a lid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Inventor: Richard N. Shapiro
  • Publication number: 20100025958
    Abstract: A foldable frame, a separating member, and a bicycle thereof are disclosed. The foldable frame is connected with a front wheel and a rear wheel of the bicycle. The foldable frame and the separating member can be used for folding the bicycle to align the axle centers of the front wheel and the rear wheel, which is useful for an user to carry the bicycle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2009
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Inventor: Alphons Steenstra
  • Patent number: 7654356
    Abstract: A folding electric scooter comprises a chassis. The front end of the chassis is disposed with a front wheel and a handlebar used to control the direction of the front wheel. The handlebar is a folding structure. The rear end of the chassis is pivotally coupled with a rear rack. The rear rack is disposed with a rear wheel, a motor and a battery. The motor and the battery are used to offer the power to the rear wheel. In addition, the rear rack is disposed with a folding four-bar linkage, which forms the seat. By such arrangements, when the folding electric scooter is not in use, the four-bar linkage can be folded to fold the seat, and the handlebar can be synchronously folded, thus minimizing the whole volume to facilitate the transportation and the storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Assignee: Pihsiang Machinery Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Donald P. H. Wu
  • Patent number: 7651109
    Abstract: There is provided a foldable land vehicle comprising an elongate main frame generally defining a longitudinal axis running from a front end of the vehicle to a rear end of the vehicle, a front part including a front wheel, a rear part including a rear wheel, a first joint means for connecting the front part to the main frame and for folding the front part to a lateral side of the main frame, and a second joint means for connecting the rear part to said main frame and for folding the rear part to below the main frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2010
    Assignee: Dynacraft BSC LLC
    Inventor: Wai Lop Tong
  • Patent number: 7637522
    Abstract: A bicycle frame includes a front part and a rear part. The front part includes head tube, a seat tube and a down tube connected between the head tube and the seat tube. A first connection portion is connected to the conjunction portion of the seat tube and the down tube. The rear part includes a second connection portion, a connection plate extending from a top end of the second connection portion, and two chain stays and two seat stays extending from the connection plate. The connection plate is fixed to the seat tube by at least one bolt, and the first and second connection portions are connected to each other by at least two bolts. The first connection portion includes a ridge which is engaged with the groove defined in the second connection portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignee: Ideal Bike Corp.
    Inventor: Chun-Hung Lin
  • Publication number: 20090317178
    Abstract: A tube folder includes a top shell, a bottom shell and an instant clasp set; wherein the top shell is provided with two sets of lug holes; the bottom shell is provided with two plug tubes; the instant clasp set covers a dismount handle which has a set of joined segments at its terminal, and an empty space formed in between the two joined segments; and a shaft, fitted in the empty space of the joined segments; each set of the lug holes and corresponding plug tube has been bound by a hinge, so does the joined segments of the dismount handle and the shaft; the surfaces of the top and the bottom shells are shaped into reinforcing ribs, providing handy fitting and enhanced joint when connecting to the tubes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2008
    Publication date: December 24, 2009
    Inventor: Ping-Tien Wang
  • Patent number: 7632034
    Abstract: A securing apparatus that releasably secures two or more mechanical elements is provided. The securing apparatus may be attached to one mechanical element and include abutment surfaces that abut at least one additional mechanical element. Forces exerted by the at least one additional mechanical element and the securing apparatus on each other serve to maintain the securing apparatus in an engaged position. The securing apparatus may include a locking member that includes a protruded portion that extends at least partially beneath the securing apparatus and at least one mechanical element. A pull-ring may be provided to rotate the locking member and release the mechanical elements being secured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Assignee: Studio Moderna SA
    Inventor: Miko Miheliĉ
  • Publication number: 20090278332
    Abstract: A disengageably coupled bicycle frame, utilizing a device for coupling a first tube and a second tube, the tubes having terminal ends and tube faces defined by their terminal ends, the device comprising a first plate member having a first plate member face and a first plate member rear and a second plate member having a second plate member face and a second plate member rear, the first plate member rear fastened by a fastening means to a face of the first tube, the second plate member rear fastened by a fastening means to a face of the second tube, and the first and second plate members fastened face to face by a fastening means, the fastening means being other than a clamp, the plate members not hingedly attached.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2009
    Publication date: November 12, 2009
    Inventor: Brian T. Myers
  • Patent number: 7614632
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a folding bicycle comprising a head and a frame, wherein the head includes a handlebar, a handlebar stem, a folding joint, and a front fork, and the front fork has two fork blades each of which is inwardly recessed. When the handlebar is folded downwards with the handlebar stem, the handlebar can be further folded and placed in the recess of the fork blade without interfering with the fork blade. Thus, the folding bicycle can be further folded with a less folded volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2009
    Inventor: David Tak-Wei Hon
  • Publication number: 20090256330
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, a connector assembly for assembling at least two portions of a bicycle frame has first and second connectors (28,30), adapted to be mounted to the frame. The first connector (28) has a body (66) with an inner aperture (68), a peripheral region (70), a threaded exterior profile greater than a body outer profile and an axial contact surface. The second connector has a body (74) with an exterior profile (84), a pilot (78) to be received in the first connector inner aperture and a peripheral region (82) having an exterior profile (84) and an axial contact surface (86). A sleeve (88) has a first region (90) with an aperture (92) to receive the second connector body exterior profile, a second region (94) with an inner profile to receive the second connector peripheral region exterior profile, and a threaded region (98) engaging the first connector threaded exterior profile for fastening the connector assembly and maintaining engagement of the pilot and axial contact surfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2006
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Inventor: Kenneth Marvin Daniels
  • Patent number: 7584977
    Abstract: A vehicle frame assembly includes a forked first frame member coupled to a second frame member via a coupling device. The coupling device includes first and second tab units, and a fastening unit. The first tab unit is mounted on the first frame member, and includes a pair of first tabs, each formed with a first coupling hole and an angle-adjusting hole unit. The second tab unit is mounted on the second frame member, and includes a pair of second tabs, each formed with a second coupling hole and an engaging hole unit to be registered with the first coupling holes and the angle-adjusting hole units, respectively. The fastening unit includes a first fastener extended removably through the first and second coupling holes, and a second fastener extended removably through the angle-adjusting hole units and the engaging hole units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Assignee: Gomier Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Toshi Huang
  • Patent number: 7584978
    Abstract: The invention relates to a foldable bicycle (1) comprising a first channel (10) for supporting handlebars (7) when folding the bicycle. The invention also relates to a method of folding such a bicycle. This folding method involves at least five horizontal folding axes (17, 18, 19,20,21) allowing a compact folded bicycle to be obtained in which all the components forming the bicycle are folded within each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Inventor: Christian Pourias
  • Publication number: 20090212529
    Abstract: A system provides for the adjustment of a cycle frame, for example the rake angle, gooseneck height, wheel base, and rear end height of a motorcycle. The system includes a variable length backbone, a variable length downtube, optionally a variable length fork assembly, and optionally a variable height rear end. The length of the backbone, downtube, fork, and height of the rear end can be adjusted, for example, using a linear actuator such as an electromechanical ball screw associated with each of the backbone, downtube, fork, and rear suspension. Adjustment of the lengths/heights/angle can be controlled independently of one another and/or in coordination by a controller. The controller comprises a processor, memory, and actuator drive components. The controller can store presets which allow the rider to automatically adjust the variable length components to specific lengths that provide a desired rake angle, gooseneck height, wheel base length, rear end height, or combination thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2009
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventor: Eric E. Stenberg
  • Patent number: 7578515
    Abstract: A modular bicycle comprising a first section having a front frame section and a first tire, a second section being couplable to the first section and comprising a central frame, and a third section being couplable to the second section and the first section, with the third section comprising a rear frame section, a second tire, and a handle bar. The bicycle also comprises pedals that are removably securable to the crank arms of the bicycle. The pedals comprise a foot rest, a base section secured to the foot rest, and a locking member pivotally connected to the base section. The locking member is insertable into a through bore located on the crank arm and is pivotally rotatable towards the crank arm, thereby securing the pedal to the crank arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Inventor: Harry Appleman
  • Patent number: 7568720
    Abstract: A wheeled vehicle such as a tricycle able to be folded from an in use position to a carryable storage position by connection of steering rod (31) and front wheel strut (32) to the seat (25) in a manner that allows rotational, pivotal and sliding movement of front steering rod (31). The second storage position has the steering rod (31) and front wheel strut (32) with attached wheel (36) and back rear struts (25, 27) with attached wheels folded underneath the seat in a readily carryable format and minimal volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Inventor: Matthew E Golias
  • Patent number: 7559561
    Abstract: A collapsible skateboard includes an upright handle having lower portion on which is fixedly mounted a bracket, a connector having a curved slot having a lower end formed with a horizontal recess, an upper end formed with a vertical recess, and a circular hole under the vertical recess, an adjust pin inserted into the vertical recess of the connector and the elongated hole of the bracket, a pivot pin fitted through the circular hole of the connector and the circular hole of the bracket, a spring having an upper end connected to the adjust pin and a lower end to the pivot pin, and a platform on which is fixedly mounted the connector, whereby the skateboard can be easily folded up as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Assignee: Razor USA LLC
    Inventor: Shui-Te Tsai
  • Publication number: 20090166996
    Abstract: A wheelchair comprising: three or more ground-engaging wheels; and a user seat, the user seat forming a structural member or monocoque on which the ground-engaging wheels are supported; wherein at least one of the wheels is connected to the seat by a support member, the length of the support member being adjustable during use. Also provided is a wheelchair or other wheeled vehicle, wherein at least one ground-engaging wheel is connected to a pivotable hub, and the said wheel is adjustable. Also provided is a wheelchair, wherein a ground-engaging wheel on each side of the wheelchair is provided with a brake. Also provided is a wheelchair or other wheeled vehicle in which one or more ground-engaging wheels are provided with ratchet means. A coupling arrangement for releasably joining two structural members is also provided. Also provided is a wheelchair including a rear castor with a detent mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2007
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Inventor: Michael J. Spindle
  • Publication number: 20090160158
    Abstract: A wheelchair is constructed to be convertible into a push-cot. The wheelchair includes a main chassis and front and rear chassis that are removably received in the main chassis and are extendable in frontward and rearward directions. A reclining back frame is rotatably mounted to the rear side of the main chassis and is in driving coupling with the rear chassis so that when the rear chassis is extended, the reclining back frame is moved from a substantially upright position to a horizontal position to convert the wheelchair to a push-cot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2007
    Publication date: June 25, 2009
    Inventor: Meei-Huei Yao
  • Publication number: 20090146391
    Abstract: A bicycle frame design using plate frame structural elements for a high performance, full suspension bicycle having the ability to fold up in a package of compact size is provided. The main frame is formed by opposed plate frame elements (1, 2), patterned in the ergonomic dimensions and component arrangements therefrom used for contemporary mountain bikes. The patterned plate frame elements (1, 2) are cut from plate stock in a way that locates and mounts the operative elements in positions required for bike function. Such plate frame structure is of modular, lightweight, and weldless construction. A mechanically simple, lightweight rear shock absorbing system (7, 8, 9) is incorporated. The design routes cables in an internal arrangement, separating them from rider or other attached components or accessories on the inboard side of the plate frame structure. Overall geometry and dimensions of the configuration are adjustable to provide a universal fit for riders of various sizes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 24, 2008
    Publication date: June 11, 2009
    Inventor: Michael T. Sutherland
  • Publication number: 20090096187
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a foldable bicycle of the type including a chassis, a so-called frame (1), on the one hand, and a rear arm (15) firmly attached to the frame (1) and bearing the axis of the hub of a driving rear wheel (16) on the other hand, the driving torque being transmitted to the driving wheel (16) through a chain (17) extending between a driving pinion (13) firmly attached to the frame (1) and a driven pinion (18) firmly attached to the axis of the hub of the driving wheel (16); said bicycle is remarkable in that the rear arm (15) consists of at least two so-called horizontal arms (19a, 19b), one of the ends of which, a so-called proximal end, is jointed to the frame and the other end of which, a so-called distal end, bearing the axis of the hub driving rear wheel (16), is firmly attached to one of the ends of said rear oblique arms (20a, 20b), the other end, a so-called proximal end, of said rear oblique arms (20a, 20b) being provided with male or female firm attachment means capable of
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2007
    Publication date: April 16, 2009
    Inventors: Gilles Lapierre, Emmanuel Antonot, Remy Gribaudo
  • Patent number: 7510202
    Abstract: A foldable bicycle has a rear frame, a folding assembly and a front frame. The rear frame has a seat tube, a bottom bracket, a rear fork and a rear wheel. The folding assembly is connected to the rear frame and has a supporting device, a rotating jacket and a locking device. The supporting device is connected to the bottom bracket and has a mounting bracket and a supporting element. The mounting bracket is connected to the bottom bracket. The connecting tube is pivotally connected to the mounting bracket. The extending tube is connected to the connecting tube. The rotating jacket is rotatably mounted around the extending tube. The locking device is connected to the rotating jacket and the seat tube of the rear frame. The front frame is connected to the folding assembly and has a top tube, a head tube, a front fork and a front wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2009
    Inventor: Wen-Liang Shiao
  • Publication number: 20090066056
    Abstract: A front wheel foldable device for a golf cart includes a main body, a wheel frame, a positioning member, a sleeve, a stop member, and an elastic member. Thus, the wheel frame is pulled outwardly relative to the main body so that the locking portions of the positioning member are moved to detach from the locking grooves of the main body respectively. Then, the wheel frame is rotated through ninety (90) degrees and is released, so that the post of the wheel frame is retracted into the main body by a restoring force of the elastic member, the locking portions are locked in the locking grooves respectively, the front wheel is turned from an upright state to a horizontal state, and the front wheel is parallel with and rested on the cart frame when the cart frame is folded.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2007
    Publication date: March 12, 2009
    Inventor: Gordon Liao
  • Patent number: 7490842
    Abstract: This invention relates to personal transportation devices and more specifically to folding bicycles. The invention consists of a folding frame comprised of a main tube with tuned cross section, a folding pivot axis perpendicular to the vehicle axis, and a locking mechanism further comprising a seat post rigidly retained by two clamping sections of a seat tube. The invention also consists of a rear wheel retention element—a “dropout”—with horizontal axle slots and a replaceable derailleur hanger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Inventors: Karl T. Ulrich, Nathan T. Ulrich
  • Patent number: 7490844
    Abstract: Cycling apparatus including at least one front wheel and at least one rear wheel rotatably mounted on axles on a frame, a riding seat attached to the frame, a drive mechanism coupled to at least one of the wheels for driving the cycling apparatus, at least one handlebar post attached to a portion of the frame, and a carrier member attachable to the frame for carrying at least one of a child and an object therein and movable between first and second attachment orientations, wherein in the first attachment orientation the cycling apparatus is in a rider-powered orientation drivable by a rider sitting on the seat and powering the drive mechanism, and wherein in the second attachment orientation the cycling apparatus is in a stroller orientation wherein the at least one handlebar post is arranged with respect to the carrier member to form a pushable stroller, wherein a center of gravity of the carrier member with respect to the axle of the at least one front wheel at the first attachment orientation is different
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: Taga Design & Development Ltd.
    Inventors: Shlomo Barak, Hagai Barak, Amit Barak, Miky Heimann
  • Patent number: 7487982
    Abstract: A combination vehicle frame includes a base frame unit formed of a plurality of frame bars detachably connected to one another. One of the frame bars is provided with a head having intersected first through hole and second through hole. A rear wheel frame unit is detachably connected to the base frame unit remote from the head. A front wheel frame unit is selectively inserted through one of the first through hole and second through hole of the base frame unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: J.D. Components Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kun-Do Chan
  • Publication number: 20080315553
    Abstract: A bicycle adaptable to different forms of cycling. The bicycle includes a frame modification of the location of the crankshaft unit in the frame. The bicycle frame includes a crankset box forming a main housing. The crankset box is positioned at the junction of first and second rods. A detachable body member is mounted in the main housing, and includes a special housing that may be centered or off center relative to the base of the detachable body member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2008
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Inventors: Guillaume Girout, Georges Girout