Abstract: A two wheeled throwable robot comprises an elongate chassis with two ends, a motor at each end, drive wheels connected to the motors, and a tail extending from the elongate chassis. A rear portion having a deep recess securing the pair of motors with brackets, and batteries with brackets. The forward part having a shallow recess with a printed circuit board secured therein having control circuitry. The wheels are less than six inches in diameter and the robot weighs less than five pounds.

Abstract: A light weight, automatic release, variably adjustable bicycle stabilizer is disclosed. The invention is comprised of five main parts: a first part being an adjustable, pivoting, slightly flexible u-shaped fork that stabilizes the wheel; a second part being an anchor bracket; a third part being a down tube stabilizer; a fourth part being a compression band; and a fifth part being an onboard, LED, safety light. The invention is selectively affixed to the underside of a bicycle frame. The anchor is disposed on the down tube and the slightly flexible u-shaped fork wheel stabilizer swings out from said anchor and grabs the front wheel preventing the wheel from turning and tipping the bike over. The end of each fork is wider on the inside. This stops the bicycle from rolling backward when parked on an incline.

Abstract: A method is described for operating a two-wheeled vehicle, in particular a motorcycle, on a roadway, the method including the following steps: ascertaining an instantaneous coefficient of friction between at least one wheel of the two-wheeled vehicle and the roadway; calculating a critical tilt angle of the two-wheeled vehicle as a function of at least the instantaneous coefficient of friction; detecting an instantaneous tilt angle of the two-wheeled vehicle; determining the distance between the instantaneous tilt angle and the critical tilt angle; and outputting an item of information to the driver as a function of the determined distance.

Abstract: An improved portable bicycle stand having an elongated rigid member with a stand head and stand foot. The head is shaped so as to positively engage a bicycle frame above its center of gravity. The foot is shaped so as to positively engage a ground surface. The elongated rigid member is formed from a plurality of interlocking tubular segments, which are collapsible for portability.

Abstract: Aftermarket motorcycle stabilizer that attaches to motorcycle crash bars without making irreversible structural modifications to the motorcycle frame. The device is optimized to supplement motorcycle stability during intermittent periods of stopping or very slow speed operation. The stabilizer operates by way of a fixture (often a two part fixture) designed with various complementary indentations designed to allow the two parts of the stabilizer fixture to clamp onto different types of motorcycle crash bars. A pivoting arm is also attached to the fixture, along with an electronic actuator attached to both the arm and the fixture. The actuator raises or lowers the arm upon receiving appropriate manual or automatic signals. The opposite end of the arm has at least one small wheel. Thus extending the arm brings the wheel into contact with the ground, while retracting the arm will bring the arm generally flush with the motorcycle body.

Abstract: Mobile self-balancing robots for telepresence are provided. The robots comprise a base, a head, and a shaft therebetween. The shaft can be telescoping to allow the head to be extended above the base to about the height of a normal sized person, or can be retracted to make the robot more compact for easier storage and transportation. The head includes components for telepresence such as cameras, a speaker, a microphone, a laser pointer, and a display screen, as well as protection from impacts and falls. The base provides locomotion and balance, and a narrow shaft between the head and base minimizes the robot's weight and reduces the likelihood of collisions with protrusions like table edges.

Abstract: A vehicle assembly includes a two-wheeled vehicle including a frame having opposed sides, opposed front and rear ends, and a front wheel mounted for rotation to the frame proximate to the front end of the frame positioned in front of an opposed rear wheel mounted for rotation to the frame proximate to the rear end of the frame and that is substantially in-line with respect to the front wheel. A member is carried by the frame of the vehicle between the front and rear wheels and has end portions disposed adjacent to the respective sides of the frame. A wheeled stabilizer assembly is carried by each of the end portions of the member to wheelingly interact with the ground over which the vehicle is driven along the sides of the frame proximate to the front and rear wheels of the vehicle.

Abstract: A kickstand for a bicycle includes a support stand, a connector detachably mounted on an upper portion of the support stand, and a quick release device releasably mounted on the connector. The quick release device is releasably locked onto a rear wheel axle of the bicycle to attach the support stand to the rear wheel axle. Thus, the kickstand is mounted on and detached from the rear wheel axle of the bicycle easily and quickly by locking and unlocking the quick release device, thereby facilitating a user mounting and detaching the kickstand.

Abstract: A structure for laterally moving a folded folding bicycle includes a front assembly for wheeling laterally and a rear assembly for wheeling laterally comprising a sleeve secured to a seat stay and having a substantially J-shaped opening having an upward directed notch at a lower end, a support tube, an auxiliary wheel rotatably secured to the support tube, and a threaded lever. The support tube is inserted through the sleeve and the elastic member and the lever is driven through an upper end of the opening into the support tube to slidably secure the support tube to the sleeve with an elastic member biased between the top of the support tube and the sleeve. After folding the bicycle the lever slidably pushes downward until entering the notch to be locked therein so as to change orientation of the auxiliary wheel to be perpendicular to that of the rear wheel.

Abstract: A motorcycle support stand with a folding design, not attached to the motorcycle, but available for portability directly on motorcycles that have no attached means of upright support. The support device comprises an extended finger for intermittently interfacing with the hollow rear axle holes on these types of motorcycles, two support legs that pivot near the top, and a bottom brace member that pivots on the bottom of one support leg and intermittently latches to the bottom of the other support leg. When folded in this triangle shaped configuration, the extended finger can be inserted into the hollow rear axle hole, at the exact center of the rear wheel hub, on either side, and the weight of the motorcycle can be leaned onto the stand. When the stand is folded to its small straight configuration, it can be transported on the motorcycle for use in remote locations. The rider also has the option of having no stand on the bike, for competition situations.

Abstract: A safety device for restraining the forward movement of a two-wheeled bicycle used for training a child, said device including a cord controller that allows for the extending, retracting and locking said cord to a manual handle, a spring clip fastener on the free end of said cord and a flexible strap that connects at one end by a loop to a bicycle seat post with the other end to a fastening ring that allows the ring to be fastened to the spring clip on the cord. The cord controller allows the user to walk behind a young child who is learning to ride a two-wheeled bike to prevent the child from accelerating away from the adult during training whereby the adult can restrain the forward movement of the bicycle whenever necessary.

Abstract: A method and apparatus suitable for stabilizing a two-wheeled motorcycle during operation. The apparatus is securable to a location near the front of the motorcycle engine. At least one arm assembly extends in a rearward direction relative to the motorcycle and outboard of the motorcycle's engine and operator's seat. A wheel assembly is mounted at an rearward end of the arm assembly and includes a wheel engageable with a surface supporting the motorcycle. A biasing assembly biases the arm assembly to rotate upward an adjustable limited distance at which the wheel is not engaged with the support surface. The biasing assembly applies a biasing resistance to downward rotation of the arm assembly over the limited distance for engaging the wheel with the support surface, yet allows the arm assembly to rotate upward farther than the limited distance to a raised position.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a motorcycle anti-tipover device that has telescoping support arms that extend to the ground. The support arms are automatically extending when the motorcycle is stationary or moving at low speeds to prevent the motorcycle from tipping over. The telescoping support arms may also serve as a traditional kickstand, or may be used to lift the motorcycle during servicing. Alternatively, an airbag may be deployed underneath the motorcycle to prevent the motorcycle from tipping over.

Abstract: A stand for a two wheeled vehicle having a hollow axle comprising, the stand having a telescoping support assembly having a foot at a first end thereof, the telescoping support assembly being extendable between an unextended position and an extended position and being releasably lockable in the extended position, a latch for releasably maintaining the telescoping support assembly in the extended position, a first member being disposable at first and second angular positions relative to a second end of the telescoping support assembly, the first angular position being coaxial with the telescoping support assembly and the second angular position being a predetermined angle with respect to the telescoping support assembly, the first member being releasably lockable in the second angular position. The stand is configured to fit and be retained within a hollow axle for storage, and to be deployed to provide a side stand using the hollow axle for reference to the two wheeled vehicle.

Abstract: A thruster system is provided for a vehicle that can be used to reduce the roll propensity of a motor vehicle. The system utilizes a control system and multiple sets of thrusters which are strategically placed upon the vehicle. The control system is provided for detecting a potential roll condition and activates selected ones of the thrusters to produce a necessary thrust force for counteracting roll forces.

Abstract: A foldable bicycle frame includes top and bottom connecting bars respectively pivotally connected between front and rear top tubes of the bicycle, a plurality of springs supported between the top and bottom connecting bars for pushing the top and bottom connecting bars vertically away from each other for allowing the front top tube and the rear top tube to be turned relative to each other between an operative position and a non-operative position, and a locking mechanism controlled by a locking lever to lock the top connecting bar and the bottom connecting bar in a position where the front top tube and the rear top tube aren't movable relative to each other.

Abstract: A flexible training wheel assembly fitted on each side of the rear wheel (10) of a bicycle, each training wheel assembly comprising: an upper bracket (1) removeably attached to the bicycle axle (11), a visco-elastic connector (2) attached to the upper bracket (1), and a lower arm (3) attached to the visco-elastic connector (2) at one end and to a training wheel (6) at the other end.

Abstract: An adjustable kickstand is constructed from a fixed kickstand body (110) and an extendable leg (150). The extendable leg (150) is effectively lengthened by the use of at least one spacing element (120a–120e). When at the proper length, the kickstand is mounted to a vehicle so as to prop the vehicle up at a predetermined angle, while providing sufficient force on a support foot (152) on a distal end of extendable leg (150) to prevent slippage on a parking surface.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: The invention is a training aid which can be converted from training wheels to a support bar which allows a person to learn the skills necessary to operate the bicycle. The invention allows a rider to be stabilized by the ground in a first position and to allow a non-rider to stabilize the bicycle in a second position.

Abstract: A zero turning radius power lawn mower for operation by a standing occupant includes first and second independently driven and controlled rear drive wheels mounted on separate drive axles. A riding platform for supporting the standing occupant or operator is located between the first and second rear drive wheels. The rear drive wheels are independently driveable in both the forward and reverse directions at variable speeds so as to allow for substantially zero radius turning of the mower about a central turning point. The riding platform is positioned near this turning point or axis so that the standing occupant remains substantially unaffected by centrifugal force created during approximate zero radius turning of the mower thereby allowing the mower to take such turns at higher speeds. The low center of gravity created by the position of the riding platform for the standing operator also results in the mower having improved traction and being less likely to pop “wheelies” upon acceleration.

Abstract: The present invention is an improved anti-tip wheel assembly for a wheelchair. The preferred embodiment of the assembly includes a cam mechanism to allow the initial height of an anti-tip wheel above ground to be adjusted dependent on the obstructions which the wheelchair is expected to encounter. The cam mechanism fixes the position of the anti-tip wheels to prevent the wheels from unintentionally displacing when an anti-tip wheel contacts the ground or an obstruction.

Abstract: A zero turning radius power lawn mower for operation by a standing occupant includes first and second independently driven and controlled rear drive wheels mounted on separate drive axles. A riding platform for supporting the standing occupant or operator is located between the first and second rear drive wheels. The rear drive wheels are independently driveable in both the forward and reverse directions at variable speeds so as to allow for substantially zero radius turning of the mower about a central turning point. The riding platform is positioned near this turning point or axis so that the standing occupant remains substantially unaffected by centrifugal force created during approximate zero radius turning of the mower thereby allowing the mower to take such turns at higher speeds. The low center of gravity created by the position of the riding platform for the standing operator also results in the mower having improved traction and being less likely to pop “wheelies” upon acceleration.

Abstract: A bicycle balancing system for assisting in the training of a child to ride a bicycle. The bicycle balancing system includes a bracket attachable to a post of a bicycle, a connecting tube removably attached to the bracket, an adjustment tube attached to the bracket for adjustably receiving a U-shaped member, and a handle adjustably attached to the U-shaped member. The U-shaped member and handle may be pivoted to a desired position by releasing and connecting at least one locking detent positionable within a plurality of locking apertures within the connecting tube. The handle may be extended outwardly by releasing a locking detent positionable within a plurality of locking apertures.

Abstract: A zero turning radius power lawn mower for operation by a standing occupant includes first and second independently driven and controlled rear drive wheels mounted on separate drive axles. A riding platform for supporting the standing occupant or operator is located between the first and second rear drive wheels. The rear drive wheels are independently driveable in both the forward and reverse directions at variable speeds so as to allow for substantially zero radius turning of the mower about a central turning point. The riding platform is positioned near this turning point or axis so that the standing occupant remains substantially unaffected by centrifugal force created during approximate zero radius turning of the mower thereby allowing the mower to take such turns at higher speeds. The low center of gravity created by the position of the riding platform for the standing operator also results in the mower having improved traction and being less likely to pop “wheelies” upon acceleration.

Abstract: A two-seat center-tracking motor vehicle with a narrow body completely enclosing the occupants designed for maximum compactness, energy efficiency, high performance in term of acceleration, speed and maneuverability, and maximum protection of the occupants. The vehicle has two primary road wheels arranged in tandem, and is stabilized at low speeds by a pair of ski-rollers attached to a pair of outrigger struts which are tucked within the width of the body during normal operation. The outrigger struts may be swung outward to widen the base of support when necessary in adverse condition, and they are also capable of lifting the vehicle upright should it fall flat on its side. Suspension and actuation of the outrigger mechanism is by oleo-pneumatic principle.

Abstract: This invention is a side wheel attachment for removably attaching an auxiliary side wheel to a bicycle. The side wheel attachment comprises a single structural rod which is folded in the desired shape, i.e. forms a helical torsion spring. In natural unbiased condition, the first and second ends of the spring rod extend generally perpendicularly to one another. The first end of the spring is inversely U-shaped and tangentially engages by its web the rear axle of the bicycle where it can be fixed after adjusting its vertical position relative to the bicycle. The second end of the spring rod is rotatably engaged by the auxiliary side wheel, therefore acting as its axle. Both ends can angularly move relative to one another due to the helical spring. Therefore, in use, both auxiliary side wheels (installed on one side and the other of the rear bicycle wheel) and the rear bicycle wheel loaded by a bicycle rider, always stay in contact with the ground so as to accomplish their respective tasks.

Abstract: An accessory is provided for supporting a four-wheeled wheel-chair in a stable position in which it is tilted backwards and thus enables a disabled user to assume a relaxing recumbent posture. The accessory having a swing leg (3) that swings freely in the vertical plane of symmetry passing through the longitudinal axis of the wheelchair about a perpendicular and horizontal pivot rod (4) substantially located at the top of the back rest (9) between the two side frame posts that support the back rest (9), via rapid or permanent fastening elements (5, 6, 7, 8). The lower portion of the swing leg (3) advantageously has an adjustable length and is provided with a stabilizer foot (10).

Abstract: A bicycle training device used on a bicycle provides a user or trainer with the ability to safely and effectively supervise a rider in gaining steering and balance skills. The device is generally U-shaped with a forwardly-disposed handle at the top. The U-shaped handle is connected to the supporting legs by two curved portions. The supporting legs are fixedly attached to the rear of the bicycle at a suitable location such as the rear axle. The device enables the user or trainer to guide the bicycle and rider safely and without exerting undue forces on the bicycle by providing a multiplicity of comfortable and accessible gripping points. These separated gripping portions are available for each hand of the user and the user may guide, push or pull the device from the left side, right side or rear of the bicycle. The device is preferably of unitary tubular construction. It preferably has at least a portion, most preferably, substantially all of its outer surface covered with a cushioning material.

Abstract: This invention is a side wheel attachment for removably attaching an auxiliary side wheel to a bicycle. The side wheel attachment comprises a single structural rod which is folded in the desired shape, i.e. forms a helical torsion spring. In natural unbiased condition, the first and second ends of the spring rod extend generally perpendicularly to one another. The first end of the spring is inversely U-shaped and tangentially engages by its web the rear axle of the bicycle where it can be fixed after adjusting its vertical position relative to the bicycle. The second end of the spring rod is rotatably engaged by the auxiliary side wheel, therefore acting as its axle. Both ends can angularly move relative to one another due to the helical spring. Therefore, in use, both auxiliary side wheels (installed on one side and the other of the rear bicycle wheel) and the rear bicycle wheel loaded by a bicycle rider, always stay in contact with the ground so as to accomplish their respective tasks.

Abstract: A bicycle training aid which may be used as an aid in teaching an individual to ride a bicycle is disclosed. The aid is strapped onto the back of a novice cyclist. An instructor who walks alongside the cyclist is able to hold onto a rearwardly extending handle of the aid to assist the rider in maintaining balance while cycling.

Abstract: A hydraulically, pneumatically, electrically, or engine operated motorcycle center stand assembly having a ground-contacting lower stand unit rotatable about an axis on an upper stand unit. Parking is accomplished by rotation of said lower stand into said ground-contacting position, followed by downward pivoting of said upper stand unit, thereby raising said rear end of said motorcycle. The stand is raised by reversing the sequence. Ground contacting area, stand width, and stability are increased while simultaneously retaining maximum road clearance.

Abstract: A linkage for attaching an auxiliary handlebar having tubular ends to a bicycle handlebar having tubular ends includes a first member adapted to be axially secured and rotationally movable within each tubular end of the auxiliary handlebar and an adjustable linkage adapted to be variably positioned within each tubular end of the bicycle handlebar. Each adjustable linkage is pivotally attached to a first member in mounting the auxiliary handlebar to the bicycle handlebar.

Abstract: A motorcycle stand includes a spring loaded support rod slidably captured within a sleeve pivoted to the cycle frame and having an enlarged pad swingably mounted at the outer free end of the rod for fore and aft and side to side movement thereby accommodating the stand to any type and contour of road surface, with the stand collapsing if the rider accidentally drives off with the stand extended to avoid rider injury and cycle damage.

Abstract: A handle device for bicycles provides an adjustable rider training support point for training helpers. A handle and extension member is pivotally mounted to the rear axle and the pivoting motion conveniently places the handle proximate to the rider, avoiding the extraneous moments and forces experienced by present day fixed handles. The handle is allowed to pivot in the plane of wheel rotation, but the device is fixed in position when the optimum position is achieved. An alternate configuration limits pivoting motion to within a specific range. This allows convenient pushing, pulling and sideways support when the bicycle is at rest or being ridden. The handle is also mounted on telescoping members to conveniently adjust the handle height. The range of motion is also adjustable by a telescoping frame support or a fixture having tapered stops attached to the frame of the bicycle.

Abstract: A two-wheeled toy includes a central housing supported on a rotatable shaft between the wheels. The diameter of the wheels is larger than the housing, with a figure mounted on the housing extending above the wheels. The housing includes a miniature electric motor, gearing, batteries and a switch to activate the motor and drive the wheels. The batteries are mounted in the bottom of the housing to provide a weight and low center of gravity to maintain the housing and figure in an upright position during movement. The figure limits counter-rotation of the housing about the shaft when the wheels start to turn and move forward. The shaft extends outwardly from the wheels and provides a stop which prevents the wheels from falling sideways. The wheels may also be driven independently by separate motors and shafts and may be remotely controlled to permit turning and movement in different directions while the housing remains upright.

Abstract: Selectively operable spiral cam wheels are positioned adjacent and rotate on a common axis with the drive wheels and are attachable to the drive wheels for progressively raising the wheelchair in response to rotation of the drive wheels in one direction and for progressively lowering the wheelchair in response to rotation of the drive wheels in the opposite direction. The spiral cam wheels are also attachable to the wheelchair frame so that the drive wheels are free to be rotated in the normal manner. A lifting arm is pivotally supported at one end on each side of the frame of the wheelchair and the other end is moved by the spiral cam wheels to progressively lift the casters of the wheelchair as the wheelchair is moved toward a curb to be traversed. Embodiments of the wheelchair are disclosed in which the wheelchair is raised as it is moved in a forward direction toward the curb, and in which the wheelchair is raised as it is moved in a rearward direction toward the curb.

Abstract: A main stand device for a two-wheeled motorcycle having a body frame, which has a main stand pivotally secured to the body frame for rotation between a stored state and a standing state, an actuator operatively coupled with said main stand and operably provided on the body frame for manually rotating said main stand, the main stand having a stand body rotatably secured to the body frame and operatively coupled with the actuator and a leg telescopically mounted to the stand body and capable of being contacted with the ground, the stand body having a power unit for telescopically driving the leg, and a switch for operating the power unit being arranged so as to vary the switching mode in response to the operation of said actuator. Thus, this main stand device can stand a main stand with use of a small operating force in a short time by manually rotating the main stand at a predetermined angle and then slightly elongating the main stand by means of a power unit.

Abstract: A hydraulic righting and kickstand device includes a pivotal connection to a centrally located lower frame of the motorcycle, an upper kickstand member extending downwardly toward the ground, a fluid actuated cylinder structurally connected to the upper kickstand member, a piston actuated rod actuated in the cylinder extending downwardly from the lower end of the cylinder, a foot member structurally connected to the piston rod and extending toward the ground to the support the cycle with fluid pressure being supplied to the cylinder extending the piston to right the motorcycle.

Abstract: A support leg (24) is attached to a rear portion (12) of the frame (10) of a motorcycle (2) on the same side of the frame (10) as the kickstand (8), between the kickstand (8) and the rear wheel (6). A pair of laterally spaced ears (42) project upwardly from the upper end of the leg (24). A screw (46) extends through coaxial holes (44) in the ears (42) and a preexisting hole (14) in the frame (10) to attach the leg (24). The lift stand (22) has a support position in which the leg (24) extends downwardly and forwardly from the frame (10) to the ground and the motorcycle is supported on its front wheel (4), the kickstand (8) and the lift stand (22), with the rear wheel (6) being elevated from the ground. A support surface (38) between the ears (42) contacts a bottom surface of the frame (10). To move the lift stand (22) into its support position, the motorcycle (2) is tilted to lean toward the kickstand (8) and the leg (24) until the leg (24) contacts the ground.

Abstract: An elongated brace is provided having a first clamp pivotally supported from one end thereof and adapted to be semi-permanently attached to a frame bar of a bicycle and a second clamp is pivotally attached to the other end of the brace and may be releasably locked in clamped engagement with the aforementioned bicycle frame bar or a corresponding frame bar of an adjacent bicycle for support of the first and second mentioned bicycles from each other.