Steered By Tiltable Platform (e.g., Skateboard) Patents (Class 280/87.042)
  • Patent number: 8408565
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a hinge structure of a skateboard, and more specifically, to a hinge structure of a skateboard wherein an intermediate part of the skateboard divided into two parts that are a front board and a rear board is connected by a hinge unit. Accordingly, the skateboard is twisted and the skateboard's alignment is elastically returned by a cam and spring of the hinge unit, thereby increasing propelling force and durability. Also, since assembly and disassembly of the hinge unit is easy when the skateboard is broken, convenient maintenance and repair are enabled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Inventor: Na Eun An
  • Patent number: 8403085
    Abstract: A power application device (PAD) (10) designed to operate in combination with a four-wheeled vehicle (110) such as a skateboard (112). The PAD (10) includes an attachment tube (12) having a front end (14) and a rear end (16). Between the front and rear ends (14,16) are located a front body support (32) and an optional rear body support (38). To the front end (14) of the attachment tube (12) is attached a handle bar (22) and to the rear end (16) is attached a drive wheel (90). The drive wheel (90) is rotated by a drive-wheel powering means (40) that consists of either a d-c motor (50) or an internal combustion engine (80). The motor (50) or engine (80) is operated respectively by a variable resistor (56) or a throttle control (86) located on the handle bar (22). To operate the PAD (10) a rider stands on the skateboard (112) and the PAD (10) is activated causing the drive wheel (90) to rotate, thereby causing the PAD (10) to move forward in unison with the skateboard (112).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Inventor: Timothy A. Gilbert
  • Publication number: 20130069331
    Abstract: A track structure is provided with a bearing containing chamber having a pivotable attachment section composed of a recess which is formed in one of a support base or a rockable section and is open to the other; an operation section formed on the other of the support base or the rockable section and rotatably fitted in the bearing containing chamber; a pivot shaft section for rotatably supporting the operation section within the bearing containing chamber; and elastic blocks arranged in plural within the bearing containing chamber at equal intervals about the axis of the pivot shaft section, the elastic blocks holding the operation section at the neutral position and, when the operation section pivots to right and left, biasing the operation section in a direction in which the operation section returns to the neutral position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2010
    Publication date: March 21, 2013
    Applicant: SURPATH TRADING CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Tsutomu Yamada
  • Patent number: 8398099
    Abstract: A wheeled sport apparatus may comprise a platform and first and second sets of wheels disposed on the platform. Each set of wheels may include a center wheel between two outboard wheels and the outboard wheels may be toed outward for defining a turning radius. One or more carrier wheels may be provided between the first and second sets of wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Powdr-Woodward PA LLC
    Inventor: William Eric Edginton
  • Patent number: 8398100
    Abstract: A skateboard apparatus comprising a truck assembly is provided. The truck assembly comprises a suspension assembly, a pivot element, a collapsible tubular member, a compression spring, and a tension spring. The suspension assembly comprises a suspension spring for creating a rocking motion about a longitudinal axis of the board structure. The collapsible tubular member is threadedly connected to the pivot element, which is pivotally connected to the suspension assembly. The compression spring is externally and coaxially mounted around sleeve members of the collapsible tubular member. The tension spring coaxially that extends through the collapsible tubular member, in communication with the compression spring, telescopically extends and retracts the collapsible tubular member for creating an upward motion and a downward motion respectively, of the board structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Inventor: Hailu Teferi Tedla
  • Publication number: 20130049317
    Abstract: A skateboard that simulates the feel and ride of a long board surfboard, comprising: an elongated deck, having a flat front section, a convex central portion, and a flat rear section which is elevated. A front truck assembly is secured to the flat front section of the elongated deck. A wheel block is mounted adjacent to the convex central portion of the elongated deck, and a large wheel is operably secured within the wheel block. A rear truck assembly is secured to the elevated flat rear section of the elongated deck, the rear truck assembly being elevated above the convex central portion of the elongated deck, thereby allowing the skateboard to be balanced by the front truck assembly and the wheel unless the skateboard is turned abruptly to the left or right.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2011
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Inventor: Christopher J. Cheek
  • Patent number: 8376378
    Abstract: An articulated steerable self-propelled vehicle has a support platform mounting a motive power source and sites at opposite sides of motive power source where an operator's feet can be placed to enable the operator to stand on platform and straddle motive power source. First suspension assembly on vehicle is pivotally mounted to platform in order to dispose and couple first ground surface contacting member spaced in first direction from platform, movable to follow the ground surface, vertically movable relative to platform to accommodate impact generated by uneven ground surface, and steerable horizontally relative to platform and the ground surface. Second support assembly on the vehicle is pivotally mounted to platform in order to dispose and couple second ground surface contacting member spaced in second direction from of platform, movable to follow the ground surface, and vertically movable relative to platform to accommodate impact generated by uneven ground surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Performance Concepts, Inc.
    Inventor: Andrew Keel
  • Patent number: 8371594
    Abstract: Skateboard speed control is achieved by improved application of a mechanism to provide even force to the wheels by a simplified speed control system. The speed control system is durable, compact, simple, uses minimal components, is ergonomic, and has speed control pads that move in sync while simultaneously tolerating variations in wheel orientation and position while a rider is maneuvering the skateboard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Inventors: James Stewart Palmer, Gregory Harold Smith
  • Publication number: 20130026728
    Abstract: Skateboard designs including a hanger with a yoke with two arms, comprising a bumper which provides an increasing force as the wheel axles are pushed away from their resting position, and wide wheels with an asymmetrical and gradually tapering profile as the wheel extends outward from the midline of the board, for improved “surfing-like” maneuverability including an enhanced ability to “carve” like a snowboard.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventors: Toly Genov, Zlatko Sotirov, Alex Todorov, Marlowe Markov, Kalin Stefanov
  • Publication number: 20130001911
    Abstract: Air traveling is a daily procedure nowadays; people need to move quickly within and around airports with their luggage. The invention, hereafter called “SkateTrolley”, is a luggage designed to be used as a standard trolley or the traveler can be transported by the luggage rather than carrying it. SkateTrolley has a platform with wheels that can be pulled out to be ridden in a skate board manner and a pull out driving stick that drives the front wheel in a scooter way while the content of the luggage remains in place. The whole design is developed to minimize weight, so the suitcase shell acts as a frame for the scooter skateboard systems. SkateTrolley can be built in different sizes, one size will fit the standard carryon luggage airline requirements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2012
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Applicant: IRISH PATENT OFFICE
    Inventor: Federico PORRI
  • Publication number: 20130001910
    Abstract: A swing skateboard includes a board body, a front roller unit and a rear roller unit. The front roller unit has a front roller fork rotatably disposed under a bottom face of the board body, and a front roller rotatably mounted on the front roller fork. The rear roller unit has a rear roller shaft mounted under the bottom face of the board body, and two rear rollers respectively rotatably disposed at two ends of the rear roller shaft. A user can wiggle his/her body to tilt the board body of the skateboard and laterally swing the front roller unit so as to control and move the skateboard forward.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2011
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Inventors: Yung-Ta HSU, Kuo-Chen WANG
  • Patent number: 8336895
    Abstract: A skateboard deck is formed of several layers pressed and bonded together. Apertures are formed through the bottom-most layers, and impact support members are arranged within the apertures. The impact support members are more rigid than the other portions of the skateboard deck, and provide localized impact support while allowing the remaining layers of the deck to retain their performance characteristics and feel while strengthening the most vulnerable areas of the deck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Chomp, Inc.
    Inventors: Eben Woodall, Chi Leung, Scott Jensen
  • Patent number: 8328206
    Abstract: A skateboard truck is fabricated utilizing one, or more, elongated, generally ‘wing’ shaped, elastomeric bushings which have the ability of being controllably rotated both from within, as well as from around, the perimeters of one or more bushing seats formed into the main body of the hanger of the skateboard truck. By controllably rotating the wing shaped bushing from a parallel bushing position in relation to the sloped mounting face of the truck base plate into a perpendicular bushing position in relation to the same sloped mounting face, an enhanced range of truck tension control options are provided to the truck. Such a truck design permits the possibility of bushing tension and position adjustments to be made to the truck without the need for the rider to dismount the skateboard, and also without the use of tools. Moreover, a skateboard rider has the ability to perform such truck tension adjustments while being mounted on and in the act of riding the skateboard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Inventor: Alfred C. Williams, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8328209
    Abstract: A wiggling freewheeled vehicle comprises a folding assembly disposed between a main frame and two carrying frames. The folding assembly includes a pivot movably disposed on the main frame, clasp members integrally formed on the carrying frames, and a fastener able to fix the clasp members. Wherein, the clasp members are pivotally engaged with each other at a place where the pivot could fitly penetrate. By wrapping the main frame in the clasp members that are fixed by the fastener, the vehicle is available for a smooth operation. Oppositely, by releasing the main frame from the clasp members, the vehicle could be folded or collapsed while bending the main frame. Moreover, the collapsed vehicle allows the main frame to be arranged tightly abreast the carrying frames for achieving a compact structure. Thus, the collapsed freewheeled vehicle contributes to a reduced dimension and is beneficial for transportation and storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Inventor: Tong-Pei Tsai
  • Patent number: 8317206
    Abstract: A skateboard that includes a storage compartment. The deck of the skateboard forms a storage compartment and includes a bottom panel, a sidewall, and a top panel. The sidewall extends upwardly from, and is disposed along, the periphery of the bottom panel. The top panel is hingedly connected to the sidewall and opens and closes to form a storage compartment in conjunction with the sidewall and bottom panel. A latch is used to securely fasten the top panel in the closed position. A handle is provided to carry the skateboard like a suitcase.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: University of South Florida
    Inventors: Alexei Novitzky, Peter Novitzky
  • Patent number: 8302977
    Abstract: A Flexible Skateboard Truck intended to provide improved shock absorption and maneuverability consists of a monocoque and an axle whereby a connection is made between a mass and a device capable of moving across a surface. Said monocoque consists of flexible material which can be repeatedly deformed and returned to its original, constructed shape. Applied pressure and shock is absorbed and momentarily stored as energy by said monocoque whose instantaneous, controlled release by the rider steers said Flexible Skateboard Truck. The mounting points are configured to allow for stability and flexibility. Additional compressive support can be introduced by the insertion of a pneumatic bladder or bladders. An optional slit or slits and rib or ribs can be introduced in order to facilitate steering.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Inventor: Patrick Elton Q. Crutchfield
  • Patent number: 8297630
    Abstract: A bidirectional propulsion caster assembly is disclosed for enabling a rider to generate bi-directional motion from a ride-on device. A mounting bracket is attachable to the bottom of the device and defines a pivot axis extending in a generally transverse direction across the bottom of the device. A rocker bracket and caster shaft having a caster shaft axis are attached to the mounting bracket and pivot about the pivot axis along an arc between first and second positions. A wheel bracket is mounted to and rotates about the caster shaft. A wheel is mounted to the wheel bracket for rotation about a wheel axis angularly offset from the caster shaft axis. One or more changeable pivot stops may be attached to the rocker bracket or the mounting bracket and effective to further define the available arc of rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: James Patrick O'Rourke
    Inventor: Thomas J. O'Rourke
  • Patent number: 8292311
    Abstract: A skateboard truck includes a hanger and a truck plate. The hanger includes a yoke with a first yoke portion and a second yoke portion. The truck plate includes a first connection portion slideably connected to the first yoke portion through a shock absorber. The truck plate also includes a second connection portion connected to the second yoke portion through a connecting bar. The connecting bar is rotatably connected to the truck plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Inventor: Armando De Las Casas
  • Patent number: 8282114
    Abstract: A skateboard deck formed of laminated layers having increased twisting resistance around its center axis provided by fiber reinforced polymer matrix composite members running along the center axis and cross members extending toward side edges. Side members positioned between pairs of cross members provide additional torque resistance and energy storage for use in springing the board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Inventor: Thane G. Magee
  • Patent number: 8256779
    Abstract: An apparatus for practicing balance required for performing a trick of a sporting board traveling over a given terrain is provided. The apparatus may include a first or “top” deck, a second or “bottom” deck and one or more pivot elements. The top and bottom decks may respectively include first and second side edges, first and second (e.g., nose and tail) ends, first and second (e.g., upper and lower) surfaces and one or more apertures. The bottom deck may also include a centerline that is defined between the bottom-deck-nose and bottom-deck-tail ends. The top-deck-upper surface is adapted for a rider to ride on. The bottom-deck-upper surface is adapted to be in communication with at least a portion of the top-deck-lower surface, and the bottom-deck-lower surface is adapted to be positioned over a surface of the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Inventor: Michael B. Johnson
  • Patent number: 8251383
    Abstract: A skateboard truck assembly providing improved speed reduction or braking response when the rider places the skateboard in a rear tilt or tail drag position without sacrificing the skateboard's turning responsiveness. The truck assembly comprises a pair of axle distal sections, the portion of the axle extending beyond the ends of the hanger, that are angled relative to the riding surface. The angled axle sections causes the wheels to move in an outward direction, relative to the forward direction of the skateboard, when the skateboard is placed in a rear tilt position, resulting in drag that slows or stops the forward movement of the skateboard. Preferably, the truck assembly utilizes tapered wheels having an outer circumference which is larger than the inner circumference to provide improved speed reduction and turning stability. In addition, the pivot axis is more closely aligned or aligned with the axle axis to increase turning stability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Inventor: Paul C. Dickie
  • Patent number: 8251384
    Abstract: An improved skateboard truck in which a curved support surface is configured to make line contact that sweeps back and forth along a working surface associated with a truck's axle as the axle oscillates through a cycle including left-turn and right-turn orientations. The axle pivots around the locus of line contact during at least a portion of the cycle. From a frame of reference associated with the support surface, the lines of contact are parallel at max-left and max-right turn configurations. Preferred embodiments include structure arranged to resist departure from a zero-turn configuration while permitting micro-turn adjustment. Structure may be included to limit the range of rolling rotation of the deck about its length axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: Other Planet Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark A. Christensen, George F. McHugh, III
  • Patent number: 8246058
    Abstract: A turning mechanism for skateboards includes a plate fixed to the underside of the board and a wheel frame is pivotably connected to the pivot tube on the plate. A first part extends through a lug on the plate and a second part is threadedly connected to the first part. A U-shaped first restriction member extends through a spring and is connected to the second part, and two hook ends of the first restriction member are hooked to a first end of the spring. A U-shaped second restriction member extends through the spring and is connected to a rod on the wheel frame. Two hook ends of the second restriction member are hooked to a second end of the spring. The second part moves linearly to pull the spring when rotating the first part so as to restrict the required force that the wheel frame is pivoted relative to the pivot tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Inventors: Shiu-Chiung Wang, Chiung-Shih Liu
  • Patent number: 8246070
    Abstract: A snow glider comprises a longitudinally-extending runner for supporting a rider on ridden snow and having a generally central, longitudinally-extending slot. The glider further comprises an elevated rider-supporting deck and chatter-absorbing means straddling the slot for supporting the deck above the runner. Preferably, the bottom surface of the runner is preferably generally convex across its width, with curved outer edges that provide directional control to the rider when turning, and at least one longitudinally-extending, generally straight longitudinally-extending inner edge adjacent the periphery of the slot for greater directional control when the rider is going straight. To enhance controllability, the deck of the preferred embodiment is preferably coupled to the runner near the runner's outer periphery so that the force exerted by the rider is transmitted from his/her feet directly to the outer edges of the runner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Inventor: An Hao Adams Lin
  • Patent number: 8240686
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a steering apparatus. According to a self-steering apparatus of the present invention, an angle of wheels becomes tilted automatically depending on a slope of a frame in applications for forward two-wheeled vehicle or backward two-wheeled steering apparatus of bicycles, motorcycles, vehicles, and so forth. At the same time, a steering angle is also matched to the tilted direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Inventor: Jin Man Choi
  • Publication number: 20120193884
    Abstract: This invention is directed to a system for providing a modifiable skateboard comprising: a deck; a plurality of mounting slots defined in the bottom of the deck for receiving attachments; a plurality of detent indentions defined in the mounting slots operatively associated with attachments thereby securing accessories to the underside of the deck; an accessory having an attachment member that can be received in the mounting slot accessories to be attached to and arranged in multiple configurations to the deck. The invention can also include accessories selected from the group of trucks with wheels, single wheels, ice blade, pivots and the like. The invention can include an opening defined in the deck for receiving a wheel; and, a wheel carried by the mounting rails so that a portion of the wheel protrudes above the deck and a portion of the wheel protrudes below the deck.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2012
    Publication date: August 2, 2012
    Inventor: Nathan A. Scolari
  • Publication number: 20120187648
    Abstract: According to the present invention, the main purpose is to provide a skateboard comprising a frame and a pedal. The frame has two opposing ends including a first end and a second end. The frame further has a connecting portion formed between and connected to the first end and the second end. The first end includes at least one guiding portion formed on one side thereof. The pedal is installed to the first end of the frame and including a coupling portion. The pedal has at least one retaining portion formed on one lateral side of the coupling portion and corresponding to the guiding portion. The retaining portion is slidably disposed to the guiding portion. The frame and the first pedal are separately manufactured.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2011
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Inventor: Wang-Chuan Chen
  • Patent number: 8226095
    Abstract: A mobile platform such as, but not limited to, a skateboard type of structure capable of movably transporting an individual over a supporting surface. A wheel assembly connected to the platform includes at least one but more practically a plurality of wheels having a spherical configuration extending outwardly from opposite surfaces of the platform into engagement with the supporting surface so as to define at least two operative positions of the platform. A mounting assembly and each of a plurality of different embodiments of a bearing assembly are structured to facilitate a substantially universal, rotational movement of said wheel(s) relative to said platform. The different embodiments of the bearing assembly facilitate either a free or unrestricted universal rotational movement of the one wheel relative to the platform or alternatively a universal, rotational movement thereof concurrently about more defined rotational axes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Inventor: Jamie Alberro Reyes, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8226096
    Abstract: A mobile platform such as, but not limited to, a skateboard or roller skate type of structure capable of movably transporting an individual over a supporting surface. A wheel assembly connected to the platform includes at least one but more practically a plurality of wheels each having a spherical configuration extending outwardly from opposite surfaces of the platform. A mounting assembly and each of a plurality of different embodiments of a bearing assembly are structured to facilitate a substantially universal, rotational movement of said wheel(s) relative to said platform. The different embodiments of the bearing assembly facilitate either a free or unrestricted universal rotational movement of the one wheel relative to the platform or alternatively a universal, rotational movement thereof concurrently about more defined rotational axes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Inventor: Jaime Alberto Reyes, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8210549
    Abstract: A skateboard wheel truck assembly has a suspension including a non-circular base bushing with wings or arms extending laterally outwardly, providing for increased stability and control and reduction of wobble in use of the skateboard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Inventor: Eric L. Swenson
  • Publication number: 20120161409
    Abstract: This skateboard invention has novel swiveling caster wheels mounted on a cross carriage (axle) holding spaced apart swivel caster wheels in place on the undersurface of the board by fixed in place fastening brackets. Dual front and dual rear caster wheels—two in front and two in the rear—as well as a three caster wheeled skateboard is disclosed. Inwardly directed axle stubs (angled toward the center of the board, front and back) are employed with said stubs holding long front and long rear caster arms with wheel hubs supported by the long caster arms. A centering movement for the cross axles—whether front and/or rear—and each caster wheel is disclosed such that the cross axle and/or wheel returns itself to an initial straight line position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2011
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Inventor: Dow Young
  • Publication number: 20120146303
    Abstract: A scooter is disclosed which positions a center of gravity of a rider toward the front the scooter so that the rider can more easily perform a 180 degree turn trick. Since the rider is positioned closer to the front wheel, it becomes easier for the rider to flip over the handlebars. Fortunately, the scooter reduces a moment arm that defines a deceleration moment to reduce the likelihood that the rider will flip over the front handlebars.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2011
    Publication date: June 14, 2012
    Inventor: Stephen S. Wilson
  • Publication number: 20120146304
    Abstract: A riser for mounting a skateboard truck to a skateboard undersurface has a base portion having a board mounting interface surface, an overall first height dimension, and two or more through-openings for fasteners to fasten the base portion firmly to the undersurface of the skateboard, and a cantilever portion extending away from the base portion for a first length, the cantilever portion having a thickness less than the first height dimension, leaving a clearance of a second dimension between the cantilever portion and the skateboard undersurface as mounted to the skateboard undersurface, and a pattern of holes through the cantilever portion for mounting a skateboard truck to the riser on a side of the riser away from the skateboard undersurface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2011
    Publication date: June 14, 2012
    Inventor: Lucien Theodore Fehn
  • Publication number: 20120139203
    Abstract: A skateboard apparatus comprising a truck assembly is provided. The truck assembly comprises a suspension assembly, a pivot element, a collapsible tubular member, a compression spring, and a tension spring. The suspension assembly comprises a suspension spring for creating a rocking motion about a longitudinal axis of the board structure. The collapsible tubular member is threadedly connected to the pivot element, which is pivotally connected to the suspension assembly. The compression spring is externally and coaxially mounted around sleeve members of the collapsible tubular member. The tension spring coaxially that extends through the collapsible tubular member, in communication with the compression spring, telescopically extends and retracts the collapsible tubular member for creating an upward motion and a downward motion respectively, of the board structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2011
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Inventor: Hailu Teferi Tedla
  • Patent number: 8186694
    Abstract: A vehicle includes a chassis, a suspension system, and a steering system operably coupled to the chassis and to the suspension. The chassis includes a mounting member that has a first elongated slot. The suspension system includes a beam that is pivotally coupled to the mounting member. The steering system includes a first axle, a second axle, a tie bar that extends between first and second tie bar ends, and a slider. The first and second axles are pivotally coupled with respect to the beam. The tie bar is operably coupled to the first and second axles and includes a second elongated slot that is configured to overlie the first elongated slot. The slider is positioned in the first and second elongated slots, and is configured to move in the first and second elongated slots to select a ratio of the tilting of the mounting member to the steering of the first and second axles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Inventors: Steven David Nelson, Erik Steven Nelson
  • Publication number: 20120104715
    Abstract: An apparatus may comprise a plurality of boards for use by multiple humans. A first board of the plurality of boards and a second board of the plurality of boards may be connected by one or more cross members. Each cross member may have a first end and a second end. The first end may be connected to a first bracket on the first board and the second end may be connected to a second bracket on the second board.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2010
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Inventors: Joseph Michael Alotta, Vincent Joseph Alotta
  • Publication number: 20120098223
    Abstract: A reinforced skateboard deck adapted to connect to a set of trucks and wheels to form a skateboard for riding with the deck having a reinforced region constructed to resist rupturing of the deck and a protective side barrier constructed to prevent wear of the reinforced region during use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2012
    Publication date: April 26, 2012
    Inventor: Timothy PIUMARTA
  • Publication number: 20120091677
    Abstract: The present invention provides a skateboard including a front board, a rear board, a set of wheels mounted respectively under the front and rear boards, and a swinging connection device connected with the front and rear boards. The swinging connection device includes a front connection board fastened to the front board, a rear connection board fastened to the rear board, a connecting shaft, and a lever, wherein the front and rear connection boards are rotatably connected through the connecting shaft, a surface of the rear connection board facing the front connection board has a position-limiting slot, and the lever has one end fastened to the front connection board and the other end inserted into the position-limiting hole. Furthermore, the swinging connection device adopts a dual-bearing structure, so that through vertically twisting the user's waist and/or legs, it can obtain the motive power for propelling the skateboard.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2010
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Inventor: Chen-Sung WU
  • Publication number: 20120086181
    Abstract: Three wheeled skateboards having direct connection between the front and back skate wheels where there is improved maneuverability and turning capability is provided. A steering plate is added to the axle of a conventional front skateboard truck and is made specifically for this application. Both ends of the single cable are fixably attached to the steering plate and are connected to the single rear wheel truck to supply the direct mechanical linkage. The single wheel truck at the rear has the wheel mounted in such a way as to allow it to be turned by the mechanical linkage that carries turn motion from the two wheel truck at the front of the skateboard. The single wheel mounted to the rear of the centerline of the truck rather than in front of or on the centerline of the truck increases the quickness of the action of the skateboard.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2011
    Publication date: April 12, 2012
    Inventor: Brent H. Kinnaman
  • Patent number: 8152176
    Abstract: A truck assembly for a vehicle such as a skateboard or scooter may have a kingpin about which a hanger rotates. The hanger may be biased toward a caming surface having a depressed configuration by a spring, weight of the rider and also via a centrifugal force created during turning. This aids in dynamically stabilizing the truck assembly and the vehicle to which the truck assembly is mounted based on the particular rider and the maneuver being performed on the vehicle. The caming surface may have a regressive configuration such that the spring compresses at a different rate per degree of rotation of the hanger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Sbyke USA LLC
    Inventors: Stephen S. Wilson, Bradley E. Wernli
  • Publication number: 20120080860
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a board, on the bottom surface of which casters are mounted, wherein the aim of the present invention is to provide a twist board which is configured with simple components to prevent even minor troubles. To accomplish the above aim, the technical features of the twist board of the present invention comprise: a footing on which a user stands upright; a first caster mounted on one side of the bottom surface of the footing; and two second casters mounted to cooperate with the first caster to form an isosceles triangle structure, wherein the second casters have wheels twisted at the angle corresponding to the two oblique sides of the isosceles triangle structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2010
    Publication date: April 5, 2012
    Inventor: Seong Jin Park
  • Patent number: 8146929
    Abstract: A skateboard has a body that has a first end and a second end, a first mounting plate positioned adjacent the first end of the body with recesses formed therein, a second mounting plate positioned adjacent the second end of the body with recesses formed therein, a housing positioned within each of the recesses of the first and second mounting plates, and a ball-and-socket assembly resiliently positioned within an interior of each housing. A brake extends angularly downwardly from the first end of the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Inventor: Chrispen Johnson
  • Publication number: 20120069572
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a lighting system for a sporting apparatus. In one embodiment, a sporting board apparatus includes an elongated board structure having top surface, a bottom surface, and edge surfaces. The sporting board apparatus further includes a light system having a plurality of light sources coupled to a power supply. In addition, the sporting board apparatus may include a switching mechanism to control the supply of electrical power from the power supply to the light sources, and a select mechanism to control one or more light programs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2011
    Publication date: March 22, 2012
    Inventor: Seth Borges
  • Publication number: 20120068428
    Abstract: A skateboard truck and hanger therefor, the skateboard truck including a base plate, a bushing support, and a hanger which is dimensioned for removable securement to the bushing support. The hanger is preferably removably secured to the bushing support by means of machine screws passing through openings in the bushing support for threaded engagement in threaded openings within the hanger.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2011
    Publication date: March 22, 2012
    Applicant: JV Precision Machine Co.
    Inventors: Andrew M. Visinski, Josef F. Visinski, Wayne A. Gallipoli, Jean Louis Picouet
  • Patent number: 8128108
    Abstract: A novelty skateboard includes features common in skateboards and further includes an air passage and a cup for producing bubbles. The skateboard includes a deck, two trucks, and four wheels. The deck is made from cross laminated layers of a wood material. The air passage is formed lengthwise through one or more of the layers in the center of the deck and reaches from one end of the deck to an opposite end of the deck, and may be formed by a hollow rectangular insert laminated into the deck. One of the trucks includes a bypass reaching from a base plate of the truck to the cup. The bypass may pass through a hollow kingpin of the truck, or through the hanger of the truck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Inventor: Jerry Madrid
  • Patent number: 8118319
    Abstract: A twisted structure for a skateboard includes a first board member having a first groove defined therein and extending therearound. A second board member is connected with the first board member. The second board member has a second groove defined therein and extending therearound. An elastic band is stretchably received in the first groove and the second groove. The elastic band encloses the first board member and the second board member for connecting the first board member with the second board member. Accordingly, the first board member is pivotally twisted related to the second board member by the elastic band.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Inventor: Chao Hsieh
  • Publication number: 20120039483
    Abstract: A audio system for skateboards comprising an audio module and speakers mounted to the bottom side of a skateboard. The audio module is battery-operated and has a Bluetooth receiver and a stereo amplifier. The speakers face downwards. While the rider is traveling on the skateboard, the sound from the speakers bounces back from the road's surface so that the rider may enjoy music in safe manner without loss of maneuverability.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2011
    Publication date: February 16, 2012
    Applicant: ALTEC LANSING, LLC
    Inventors: David BURKE, Kirk LOMBARDO, Christopher KING
  • Patent number: 8113524
    Abstract: A personal vehicle for carrying a passenger, the vehicle comprising: a center frame; two wheel assemblies, wherein at least one wheel assembly is hubless; a foot support in a center portion of at least one wheel assembly; and at least one pivot means between at least one wheel assembly and the center frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Inventor: Alon Karpman
  • Publication number: 20120018970
    Abstract: A skateboard has a hard top skin formed with a top concave skin cavity. The hard top skin has an inside surface. The hard top skin is pervious to light. A top layer of adhesive adheres to the hard top skin. A flexible plywood core is formed with a top profile and a bottom profile. The top profile matches and receives the top hard skin. The top layer of adhesive adheres to a top surface of the plywood core. A bottom layer of adhesive adheres to a bottom surface of the flexible plywood core; and a hard bottom skin is formed with a bottom concave skin cavity. The bottom concave skin cavity is formed to fit to the bottom profile. The hard bottom skin is pervious to light.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2010
    Publication date: January 26, 2012
    Inventor: Dean Ronald Thompson
  • Patent number: 8100420
    Abstract: A skateboard that includes a board (12) with an upper part (30) and a lower part (34), wheel supports (14), as well as elements (28) for orientation of the wheel supports (14), whereby the elements (28) for orientation include a pin (52) whose tip (54) is housed in a recess so as to create a connection that is essentially equivalent to a ball joint; the skateboard is characterized in that in its lower part (34), it includes receiving elements (58) that are manufactured with the board (12) and are able to accommodate each wheel support (14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Inventor: Bruno Sentagnes