Abstract: An electrified vehicle includes a chassis, a cab coupled to the chassis at a front end thereof, a body assembly coupled to the chassis, and an energy storage system including a plurality of battery cells. The body assembly is positioned behind the cab with a space defined therebetween. The energy storage system is positioned within the space between the chassis and the body assembly.

Abstract: A vehicle interlock system includes a wheelchair fixing device configured to fix a wheelchair to a vehicle, a seatbelt device having a seatbelt configured such that, an occupant seated in the wheelchair wears the seatbelt, and a control unit. The control unit is configured to limit at least one of an upper limit traveling speed and an upper limit acceleration of the vehicle or output a warning signal, or to output a warning signal while limiting at least one of the upper limit traveling speed and the upper limit acceleration of the vehicle depending on at least one of the following conditions: whether the wheelchair is fixed to the vehicle with the wheelchair fixing device; whether the occupant is wearing the seatbelt; and so forth.

Abstract: Embodiments of a suspension for a vehicle is provided. The suspension includes, for example, a frame and a locking assembly. The locking assembly inhibits tipping of a frame of the vehicle when tipping of the frame is detected.

Abstract: A rigid and aerodynamic device for external protection for motorcycle and bicycle vehicles with 2 to 4 wheels. This removable dome type device is formed by multiple overlapping panels that form an oval shell type structure, which protects both the vehicle and the pilot from external weather conditions and physical damage in the event of a collision.

Abstract: A suspension for a wheelchair, wherein the suspension comprises: a frame, a motor carrier pivotally mounted on the frame to rotate about a motor carrier axis, a drive wheel having a bottom and mounted on the motor carrier to rotate about a drive wheel axis, a swing arm pivotally mounted on the frame to rotate about a swing arm axis, a swing wheel having a bottom and mounted on the swing arm to rotate about a swing wheel axis, a first contact surface coupled to move in concert with the motor carrier, and a second contact surface coupled to move in concert with the swing arm and configured to contact the first contact surface and transfer an upward force on the swing wheel into a downward force on the drive wheel.

Abstract: A top for a Jeep type vehicle is provided having a rear cargo area and parallel spaced roll bars. The top includes parallel spaced apart C pillars, each C pillar including front and rear vertical columns, the rear columns having a perpendicularly connected seat belt pass-through. The C pillars also have bottom plates connecting the front and rear columns that extend beyond the rear column. A top plate connects the front and rear columns together. The C pillars include pivotally connected sealing plates for sealing a top end of a rear door, the sealing plates being connected to the roll bars. A vertical rear window extending between said C pillar rear columns is provided, the rear window having a cutout portion for allowance of passage of a seat belt therethrough. A fabric cover providing a top deck extends over said front and rear seating portion of said vehicle and also covers the C pillars. A tonneau cover is provided for covering the rear cargo area providing a flat surface enclosure over the cargo area.

Abstract: A vehicle control system controls operation of motors of a vehicle and determines whether there is sufficient stored electric energy to power the vehicle through an unpowered segment of a route. The controller changes operation of the vehicle to ensure that the vehicle can travel completely through the unpowered segment by switching which energy storage device provides energy, changing vehicle speed, changing motor torque, changing which route is traveled on, selecting fewer motors to power the vehicle, requesting rendezvous with a recharging vehicle, running the energy storage devices in a degraded mode, initiating a motor to generate power to aid in propulsion and/or recharge the energy storage devices, selecting a different route, controlling the vehicle to draft or mechanically couple to another vehicle, and/or controlling the vehicle to gain momentum or to generate an overcharge.

Abstract: Described herein is a stabilizer system to a rider having limited leg mobility to operate a motorized vehicle having one or more wheels. Multiple embodiments are described, with differing embodiments configured for different mounting positions on different types, makes, and models of motorcycle. One embodiment can mount to a rear frame mount of a sport style motorcycle, while another embodiment can be configured to mount to a lower frame mount of various styles and types of motorcycles. Each embodiment can be controlled via a handlebar mounted switch device, which can be used to raise or lower a stabilization system via an electrically and/or hydraulically powered actuator.

Abstract: A disclosed vehicle wheel assembly includes a plurality of wheels, a plurality of rotary drive modules each having a respective rotation axis, and a plurality of rotatable arms, wherein each arm is arranged to extend radially from a rotation axis of a respective rotary drive module to couple the respective rotary drive module to a respective wheel. Each rotary drive module is operable to drive rotation of a respective rotatable arm about the rotation axis of the drive module, to thereby rotate a respective wheel about the rotation axis. A control module can sense stepped terrain, and control each rotary drive module to enable a vehicle to travel over the stepped terrain.

Abstract: Ballast for operating machines, having a portion removably couplable to a hooking seat of the operating machine, characterized by having a fixed part is provided. The couplable portion, a movable part and means for constraining the movable part to the fixed part at a plurality of distinct distances (D, D?, D?) from the fixed part are provided, so as to change the center of gravity position of the operating machine.

Abstract: The tipping of a tractor operating on an inclined surface is prevented by deploying a sideways moving stabilizer before the tractor's inclination angle is too low and below which the tractor will tip over.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for self-tracking of a data acquisition sensor equipping a wheel including a tire on a vehicle comprising a plurality of wheels (200) and being equipped with a system comprising an electronic unit (300) for a data acquisition sensor placed in each tire equipped with a radio-frequency transmitter for the purpose of the wireless transmission of said data to a central transmission and reception module (100) placed on the axle or frame of the vehicle, with the central transmission and reception module (100) receiving and decoding the information signals issued by the transmitters of each wheel, each electronic unit (300) being equipped to measure acceleration. The method is remarkable in that it consists of determining the front and rear of a tire by measuring the acceleration.

Abstract: An improved enclosed electric motorcycle has an electric motor directly driving the rear wheel with a chain or a belt. A pair of steering handles and an accelerator foot pedal enables a driver to drive the motorcycle like an automobile. The pair of the landing wheel assemblies individually has a take-up assembly to reduce their sprung weights, and has an electric motor to increase reliability. By adding a pair of anti-skid wheels, the driver can avoid many accidents. An inflatable safety belt and a pair of side airbags will protect the driver in an accident. If the battery pack explodes, it will be ejected away from the motorcycle to protect the driver. A drive-in electric engaging device enables the driver to drive the motorcycle to engage with a stationary charging station for charging its battery pack while parking.

Abstract: A self-actuating device and method for facilitating preventing product tip over are provided. The self-actuating device includes an anti-tip mechanism associated with a product to facilitate preventing tip over of the product when in an extended state. Further, the self-actuating device includes an actuator associated with the product. The actuator is configured and operatively coupled to automatically switch the anti-tip mechanism from a retracted state to the extended state based on the actuator detecting a tilt of a specified tilt angle.

Abstract: Described is a system for stabilizing a self-propelled operating machine (1), comprising scissor-like stabilizers (10), designed to pass from operating configurations, in which they stabilize the machine (1), thereby raising the wheels (22) above the ground, to a rest configuration, in which the wheels (11) are returned to the ground, in turn comprising: one or more pairs of rotatable stabilizing telescopic arms (2), each arm (2) comprising a first segment (21) and a second segment (22) extendable and retractable relative to the first segment (21) and equipped with a foot (20) for contact with the ground; first movement means (3) designed to rotate the arms (2) between a completely raised position and lowered working positions; second movement means designed to move the second segments (22) between a completely closed position and extended positions; and a processing unit configured to control the first and second movement means in such a way that the stabilizers (10) perform the following retraction sequence

Abstract: A system allowing a wheelchair bound user to embark and disembark a vehicle without assistance. The user requests entry into the vehicle. The vehicle is manually or autonomously driven into a safe position for ingress. The vehicle checks if the area is clear to open the door. The vehicle autonomously opens the door. The vehicle verifies the person is wheelchair bound. If the passenger is wheelchair bound, then: the vehicle verifies if the area is clear to deploy an inclined ramp or lift. The vehicle deploys the inclined ramp or lift. The vehicle waits until the user is on top of the lift and starts lifting the wheelchair bound person. The vehicle waits until the user at the correct height and transitions from the lift/ramp into the securement station inside of the vehicle. The vehicle verifies that the wheelchair is properly positioned for securement. The vehicle secures the wheel chair.

Abstract: A self-actuating device and method for facilitating preventing product tip over are provided. The self-actuating device includes an anti-tip mechanism associated with a product to facilitate preventing tip over of the product when in an extended state. Further, the self-actuating device includes an actuator associated with the product. The actuator is configured and operatively coupled to automatically switch the anti-tip mechanism from a retracted state to the extended state based on the actuator detecting a tilt of a specified tilt angle.

Abstract: A seat unit includes a first seat frame and a second seat frame. The first seat frame is connected with a drive carrier and includes at least one first mounting portion. The second seat frame includes wheel frames and a mounting frame fixedly connected with the wheel frames. Each wheel frame is mounted with an auxiliary wheel. A space is defined between the mounting frame and the wheel frames. The drive carrier is located in the space. The mounting frame includes at least one second mounting portion. One of the first mounting portion and the second mounting portion is a rod, and the other is a receiving portion. The rod is movably inserted through the receiving portion. When the second seat frame is displaced relative to the first seat frame, the auxiliary wheels of the wheel frames can move together relative to the drive wheels of the drive carrier.

Abstract: A self-actuating device and method for facilitating preventing product tip over are provided. The self-actuating device includes an anti-tip mechanism associated with a product to facilitate preventing tip over of the product when in an extended state. Further, the self-actuating device includes an actuator associated with the product. The actuator is configured and operatively coupled to automatically switch the anti-tip mechanism from a retracted state to the extended state based on the actuator detecting a tilt of a specified tilt angle.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method for detecting an inclination, relative to the ground, of a wheel of a motor vehicle which includes: —measuring two accelerations by using two accelerometers mounted on the wheel and suitable for measuring the acceleration of the wheel along a first axis and along a second axis, respectively, the first axis and the second axis being in the plane of the wheel and orthogonal, and —calculating the components of a gravity vector in a reference frame formed by the first axis and the second axis from the measurements of acceleration, —determining a modulus of the gravity vector from the calculated components, and —determining a position of inclination of the wheel relative to the ground by comparing the value of the modulus of the gravity vector with a predetermined value.

Abstract: A powered running board assembly includes a running board and an actuator to displace the running board between a stowed position and a deployed position. That actuator includes a housing and a telescoping arm oriented along a first axis oblique to the running board. A related method of operating a running board is also disclosed.

Abstract: An assist motor generates a steering assist force that assists a steering force transmitted to a steering shaft. A steering assist force transmit member is turnably supported by steering stem, and an assist steering system link joins a steering arm and a steering assist force transmit member. The assist motor is disposed adjacent to an assist steering system link.

Abstract: Embodiments of the disclosure enable a cart to be stabilized. A stabilizing mechanism includes a body having a first surface and a second surface that define an elongated nook configured to receive a first rod member. A coupling device is coupled to the body at a third surface such that the coupling device is substantially parallel to the first and/or second surfaces. The coupling device defines an elongated channel configured to receive a second rod member. A wheel assembly is coupled to the body at a fourth surface and includes a first end portion, a second end portion, and a plurality of wheels rotatable about an axis of rotation. A first wheel is coupled to the first end portion, and a second wheel is coupled to the second end portion. Aspects of the disclosure provide for utilizing the cart to move a load across various terrains efficiently and effectively.

Abstract: An example system includes a robotic arm coupled to a mobile base. The robotic arm includes a plurality of segments coupled via at least one joint, which includes at least one joint angle sensor. The system also includes a controller configured to carry out operations including receiving, from the at least one joint angle sensor, information indicative of a pose of the robotic arm. The operations include, based on the information indicative of the pose of the robotic arm, determining that a torque induced by the robotic arm is above a predetermined torque threshold. The operations also include causing an adjustable support member to extend out of the mobile base in an orientation that counteracts the torque.

Abstract: A network of collection, charging and distribution machines collect, charge and distribute portable electrical energy storage devices. To charge, the machines employ electrical current from an external source. As demand at individual collection, charging and distribution machines increases or decreases relative to other collection, charging and distribution machines, a distribution management system initiates redistribution of portable electrical energy storage devices from one collection, charging and distribution machine to another collection, charging and distribution machine in an expeditious manner. Also, redeemable incentives are offered to users to return or exchange their portable electrical energy storage devices at selected collection, charging and distribution machines within the network to effect the redistribution.

Abstract: An anti-tip system is provided for improving the stability of a powered vehicle, such as a powered wheelchair. The vehicle includes a drive-train assembly pivotally mounted to a main structural frame. A suspension system biases the drive-train assembly and its connected anti-tip wheel to a predetermined resting position. The drive-train assembly bi-directionally rotates about a pivot in response to torque applied to or acceleration forces on the vehicle. A linkage arrangement is provided and is characterized by a suspension arm pivotally mounting to the main structural frame about a pivot at one end thereof and an anti-tip wheel at the other end. The linkage may further include at least one link operable to transfer the bi-directional displacement of the drive-train assembly to the suspension arm. The link may include a bell crank member and/or may be resiliently compressible.

Abstract: A system comprises a platform being configured for locomotion in a plurality of directions over a surface. A robotic unit is configured for dexterous manipulation comprising at least lifting of objects. The robotic unit is joined to the platform. At least one extender unit is joined to the platform and is configured for controlled extension beyond the platform to contact the surface to stabilize the system at least during the manipulation by the robotic unit. At least one controlling unit is configured to be operable for at least determining a center of gravity and a zero moment point for the system and for at least controlling an extension of the extender unit.

Abstract: An anti-tip system is provided for improving the stability of a powered vehicle, such as a powered wheelchair. The vehicle includes a drive-train assembly pivotally mounted to a main structural frame. A suspension system biases the drive-train assembly and its connected anti-tip wheel to a predetermined resting position. The drive-train assembly bi-directionally rotates about a pivot in response to torque applied to or acceleration forces on the vehicle. A linkage arrangement is provided and is characterized by a suspension arm pivotally mounting to the main structural frame about a pivot at one end thereof and an anti-tip wheel at the other end. The linkage may further include at least one link operable to transfer the bi-directional displacement of the drive-train assembly to the suspension arm. The link may include a bell crank member and/or may be resiliently compressible.

Abstract: A deployable structure to provide protection when vehicles roll over, which is made up of a “V” shaped structure (1) closed at the top where both the lateral vertical bars (4) and the uppermost horizontal bar (7) can fold and unfold telescopically, resulting in an increase in the width and the height of the structure when changing from the folded to the unfolded positions. The lower end of the tubular vertical lateral elements (4) of the structure are conveniently coupled to the chassis of the vehicle (2) in question, with the structure (1) being deployed when a certain tilt of the vehicle is detected by means of a tilt sensor using an activation control or algorithm.

Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods are described for providing, among other things, a stand-up wheel chair having automatic stability control.

Abstract: A self-right apparatus is a device for automatically returning an overturned vehicle to an upright orientation. The device features a base plate that is mountable to a vehicle and a flip plate that is hingedly connected to the base plate via a pivot axle. The flip plate is held in place by a trigger mechanism engaged to a catch until the device is ready to be deployed to flip the overturned vehicle. The device utilizes a clutched servo mechanism that is connected to the trigger mechanism. The clutched servo mechanism is actuated in order to release the trigger mechanism from the catch and allow the flip plate to rotate about the pivot axle via force provided by a plurality of torsion springs. The flip plate is pressed against the surface on which the vehicle has become overturned, causing the vehicle to flip and return to its original upright orientation.

Abstract: Variable-attitude systems used with training wheels for children's bicycles and mini-motorcycles are provided, which include a metal arm, mounted on a bicycle or mini-motorcycle frame, by a second metal arm and by a hinge joint, wherein elastic elements are provided, housed around the joint which, through the two arms thereof, imparts a pressure which may be modulated on the second arm which supports the training wheels to adhere to the sliding plane.

Abstract: A lean-compensating motorcycle for balancing a user includes a lower frame with wide wheels and an upper frame supporting a rider. The lower and upper frames pivot on an axis substantially parallel to the motorcycle's line of travel, and a pivot drive governs pivoting movement. The pivot drive is controlled by a level-sensing control system that adjusts the pivot drive to maintain the upper frame upright by applying force against the lower frame, the lower frame counterbalancing the pivoting motion against the wide wheels. The wheels ideally include a central channel sized to accommodate raised pavement markers, such as dots and reflectors, to provide for smooth travel. The upper frame includes a housing in which the user sits, in a manner similar to a conventional automobile since propping the motorcycle up with the user's legs is largely unnecessary.

Abstract: A mobile stabilization device consists of at least one linear gear forming a track adapted to be securely attached to a vehicle. A movable counterweight member including at least one gear that is adapted to cooperate with at least one linear gear and thereby move linearly along the track, and a servo-motor attached between the counterweight member and at least one gear for actuating and rotating at least one gear thereon and hence along the track. An inclination detector adapted to determine the inclination of the vehicle and send signals to at least one servo-motor and at least one of the counterweight's gears to thereby move the counter weight along the track to a position that would increase the stability of the vehicle.

Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods are described for providing, among other things, a stand-up wheel chair having automatic stability control.

Abstract: Disclosed is a crane comprising: a lower body; an upper slewing body; a counterweight unit including a plurality of wheels to travel on the ground in a turning direction equal to a slewing direction of the upper slewing body while being suspended from the upper slewing body; a steering actuator for rotating each of the wheels around a steering-rotation center axis to change the steering angle; and a steering control device for controlling the steering actuator. The steering control device includes: a slewing-identification-signal receiving section which receives a slewing identification signal for identification of the slewing direction of the upper slewing body; and an actuator operating section operates the steering actuator to orient each of the wheels to the inside of a tangent line to an orbit of the wheel at the steering-rotation center axis, based on the identified slewing direction identified from the slewing identification signal.

Abstract: A weight transfer system for a tractor includes a front lift arm pivotably mounted to the tractor and a front accessory mounted to the front lift arm. The front accessory is located forward of a front of the tractor. A mounting bracket is secured to a frame of the tractor. An electric linear actuator includes a forward end and a rear end. The forward end is mounted to a spring and the rear end is mounted to the mounting bracket. The linear actuator is actuable between an extended position and a retracted position. The forward end is spaced a first distance from the front of the tractor in the extended position and a second distance from the front of the tractor in the retracted position. The first distance is less than the second distance.

Abstract: Embodiments of a suspension for a vehicle is provided. The suspension includes, for example, a frame and a locking assembly. The locking assembly inhibits tipping of a frame of the vehicle when tipping of the frame is detected.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device mounted on a wheel set that comprises: a rocker beam 14 connected firstly to a tiltable frame 10 by means of a shock absorber 17 and secondly to two oscillating arms 7, 8 via two connecting rods 13, 15; and blocking means 27 having a first anchor point on said rocker beam 14. Furthermore, the device comprises decoupling means constituted by a horizontal lever 21 and a vertical lever 22 that are connected together by a connection point 24 about which they are capable of pivoting, the free ends of said levers being connected respectively to said frame and to said rocker beam, the second anchor point of said blocking means 27 being on said decoupling means. The invention also provides a vehicle, in particular a quadricycle, provided with the device.

Abstract: A scooter, for a handicapped person, has a platform. A front wheel is steerably mounted at a front of the platform. A rear drive wheel is mounted at a back of the platform. A motor is connected to drive the drive wheel. There is a power source for the motor. A pair of protective skirts are mounted to the sides of the platform. A pair of casters are mounted below the platform, at the lateral edges of the platform. The casters are within the protective skirts. The casters are protected by the protective skirts.

Abstract: The system is adapted to be installed on a vehicle and comprises a skid simulation system and a lateral stability system. The skid simulation system generally comprises deployable auxiliary wheel assemblies which, when lowered, reduce or eliminate the weight placed upon the conventional wheels and tires. The auxiliary wheel assemblies are positioned near the conventional wheels and comprise a wheel that is free spinning about a horizontal axis and a vertical axis. The lateral stability system generally comprises a plurality of deployable lateral support members which may be manually deployed from housing compartments or automatically deployed upon receipt of a signal from sensors such as accelerometer sensors that the vehicle is in danger of overturning.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed that assist a user in performing proper setup of a vehicle suspension. A user may utilize a device equipped with an image sensor to assist the user in proper setup of a vehicle suspension. The device executes an application that prompts the user for input and instructs the user to perform a number of steps for adjusting the suspension components. In one embodiment, the application does not communicate with sensors on the vehicle. In another embodiment, the application may communicate with various sensors located on the vehicle to provide feedback to the device during the setup routine. In one embodiment, the device may analyze a digital image of a suspension component to provide feedback about a physical characteristic of the component.

Abstract: A wheelchair suspension comprises a frame, at least one pivot arm, at least one front caster, at least one rear caster, a stabilizing system, and a sensor. The pivot arm is coupled to the frame. The front caster is coupled to the pivot arm. The rear caster is coupled to the frame. The stabilizing system is coupled to the frame and the pivot arm. The sensor is arranged such that tipping of the frame causes actuation of the stabilizing system to at least partially resist further movement of the frame.

Abstract: A shopping cart includes a frame, a plurality of wheels for supporting the frame for movement over a floor, an arm connected to the frame, and a projection positioned proximate at least one of the wheels. The frame has a front end and a rear end. The arm is configured to engage the tow member for moving the frame. The projection engages the guide member to prevent one of the front end and the rear end from rotating over the other of the front end and the rear end. A handle assembly may include an elongated slot positioned proximate a handle. The shopping cart may also include a tray is releasably secured to the frame by inserting a tab into a slot. The shopping cart may also include a tab received within a slot to secure a basket against movement relative to the frame.

Abstract: A suspension for a vehicle is provided. The suspension includes, for example, a frame, at least one drive assembly and at least one caster pivot arm. The at least one drive assembly and the at least one caster pivot arm are pivotally connected to the frame at a common pivot axis such that the drive assembly and the front caster pivot arm are pivotable relative to one another.

Abstract: A self-moving operating machine with an integrated lateral movement and leveling device, including a chassis having a front part and a rear part, to which a fore axle and a rear axle, both provided with wheels, are constrained, respectively, and including an operating arm having one of its ends constrained to the rear part. The front part and the rear part are articulated to each other by a spherical coupling including two linear actuators, consisting of hydraulic cylinders aimed at operating in mostly vertical directions. A third actuator is rod-wise connected to the front and rear parts, and is aimed at operating according to mostly horizontal directions. The actuators are operated independently. There are provided means designed to measure loads weighing on at least one of the two wheels and to control locking of the rear axle to the rear part upon reaching predetermined limits.

Abstract: A tilt-resisting member for a wheeled trash bin is provided. The tilt-limiting member fits a wheeled trash bin having a bottom, a back, a front, and a center of gravity between the back and front. The wheels represent a first fulcrum with a first distance from the center of gravity and provide a pivot point upon which the trash bin can be tilted back. The back edge of the member comprises a second fulcrum that can operably replace the first fulcrum, the second fulcrum having a distance from the center of gravity that is greater than that of the first fulcrum. The increased distance of the second fulcrum from the center of gravity increases the force required to tilt the center of gravity past the second fulcrum.

Abstract: Ground conveyor with a drive part with a frame, a load part, which is attached to the frame of the drive part and the height of which is operated on the, if applicable, one load pickup means that can be actuated by a lifting device, furthermore with parallelly distanced wheel arms, which are attached with their rear ends on the frame or the load part and each support a load-bearing wheel with means for changing the distance of the wheel arms (wheel-arm width), wherein a bearing arm is fastened on the rear end of the wheel arms, which extends almost perpendicular to the wheel arm and is received fittingly and moveably in at least one bearing opening of the frame or the load part and fixing means are provided on the frame or load part, with which the axial and pivot position of the bearing arms can be releasably retained.

Abstract: A vehicle includes a frame, an engine, a steering assembly, a steerable wheel, a brake system, a flywheel assembly, and a controller. The frame defines a roll axis. The engine is supported by the frame. The steering assembly is pivotally coupled with the frame and is pivotable about a steering axis. The steerable wheel is rotatably coupled with the steering assembly. The flywheel assembly comprises at least one inertial mass and is coupled with the frame. A controller is coupled with the flywheel assembly and is configured to facilitate rotation of said at least one inertial mass.

Abstract: A two-wheel vehicle for carrying out tire grip measurements. The vehicle is equipped with three spars fitted onto one side of the vehicle, the ends of the spars forming a plane approximately parallel to the circumferential plane of the rear wheel of the vehicle and the distance between said plane and the circumferential plane of the rear wheel of the vehicle being greater than 350 mm.