Motorized Golf Carts Patents (Class 280/DIG5)
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Patent number: 6152463Abstract: A handle mounting arrangement, which includes a coupling block fixedly fastened to the main rod member of a golf cart, a handle pivoted to the coupling block, and a spring member connected between the coupling block and a stop flange at the handle to absorb shocks transmitted from the main ground member of the golf cart to the handle upon movement of the golf cart on an uneven rod surface.Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 1999Date of Patent: November 28, 2000Inventor: David Wu
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Patent number: 6139032Abstract: Apparatus for converting a conventional battery-powered golf bag cart to a vehicle for transporting a golfer. Such apparatus includes a frame engageable to the chassis of the cart. Such frame is configured to support a seat for supporting a golfer. Wheels are rotatably engaged to opposed ends of an axle fixed to the frame. A bracket is fixed to the frame for securing it to the chassis and for reinforcing the interconnections of the chassis to a frontal nose wheel mount and to a rear control handle.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 1998Date of Patent: October 31, 2000Assignee: The Hartman TrustInventor: Marvin H. Hartman
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Patent number: 6119800Abstract: An improved electrically powered vehicle and associated method of the type having a mobile electrical storage device for providing electrical power electrically connected to a switching device, for selectively controlling the flow of electric power. The switching device is electrically connected to an electric motor. It selectively allows the flow of electrical power to the motor. The motor is mechanically connected to a belt type continuously variable transmission with the transmission mechanically connected to a drive wheel of the vehicle. It is improved by the motor, being of the direct current type, that is electrically connected to a continuously variable power supply control device responsive to an operator input. Further, the motor is mechanically connected to the continuously variable transmission, with the transmission adapted to respond to the rotational speed of the motor by varying in speed ratio.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 1997Date of Patent: September 19, 2000Assignee: The Gates CorporationInventor: Donald R McComber
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Patent number: 6068325Abstract: A weather resistant golf club cover configured to enclose the rear golf club compartment of a conventional golf cart is disclosed. The cover is fabricated from a water repellent material such as nylon and includes a rectangular back panel, a pair of generally rectangular side panels being fixedly attached along the lateral edges of the back panel and disposed in perpendicular relation thereto, and a rectangular top panel being disposed intermediate the top edge portions of the side panels and adjacent the top edge of the back panel and disposed at an inclined angle in relation to the back panel. The adjoining peripheral edges of the component panels are secured by sewing or other suitable means to form the completed cover. The weather resistant cover is provided with quick-connect/disconnect fasteners which are attached to the rear roof supporting posts of the golf cart without requiring modification of the same.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 1996Date of Patent: May 30, 2000Inventor: Charles A. Hughes
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Patent number: 6007134Abstract: A portable golf cart weathershield system including a front windshield portion, a rear windshield portion and a golf club compartment cover. The portable golf cart weathershield system is made of a lightweight, flexible, transparent, water repellent material and may be rolled up to a compact size for storage. The golf cart weathershield system is easily attached to and removed from any golf cart having a roof and requires a minimal number of attaching means.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 1998Date of Patent: December 28, 1999Inventor: Alfred G. Weston
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Patent number: 5975615Abstract: Enclosure and windshield retaining brackets for retaining a golf cart enclosure panel and a golf cart windshield in a position adjacent a golf cart windshield frame. The bracket has two preferred embodiments, the first embodiment having a U-shaped frame member for engagement with a windshield frame, and a longitudinal rail member for engagement with a bead portion of an enclosure panel, permitting linear movement of the bead portion along the length of the rail member and the second preferred embodiment having a U-shaped frame member, a longitudinal rail member, and a U-shaped windshield pane member for engagement with the windshield pane edge.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 1998Date of Patent: November 2, 1999Assignee: Tampa G Manufacturing Co., Inc.Inventor: Jerry M. Showalter
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Patent number: 5963150Abstract: A golf cart or caddy and a mobile transmitting device carried by a golf player are each provided with a receiving and evaluating device equipped with a computer for a satellite-controlled positioning system. The two receiving and evaluating devices calculate the respective positions of the golf player and the golf caddy from the signals cyclically received from the satellite system. The mobile transmitting device is provided with a high-frequency manual transmitter which transmits, also cyclically, the positions of the golf player to the golf caddy. The computer of the golf caddy calculates direction and distance of the golf player and stores the data up to the time when the caddy follows the stored path upon a signal. The golf caddy stops at a predetermined distance from the golf player.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 1997Date of Patent: October 5, 1999Inventor: Gunther Bail
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Patent number: 5950751Abstract: A chassis for a single seat dirigible electric battery-powered personal transportation vehicle is formed by a central elongated beam having a front end and a rear end. A wheeled drive mechanism is mounted on the rear end of the beam. A swivel seat is mounted on the frame in overlying relation to the drive mechanism. A front battery support frame is mounted on the front end of the beam. Spaced apart side plates secured to the front battery support frame support a wheel suspension and steering mechanism. Side battery support frames are mounted on the beam rearwardly adjacent the front battery support frame and extending rearwardly and outwardly from the beam. Batteries mounted in the battery support frames provide electric power to the vehicle and provide a counterbalance to the seat and drive mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 1997Date of Patent: September 14, 1999Assignee: SoloRider Industries, Inc.Inventor: Donald R. McComber
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Patent number: 5944132Abstract: A robotic golf caddy apparatus (21) movably supported on a steering assembly (28) and including a communications assembly (41) for communicating with a GPS system (61) and a central control station in order to guide and steer the apparatus around designated accessible areas of a golf course. The apparatus (21) also includes a dead reckoning system with distance determination device (83) and compass (85) for determining the distance the caddy travels should the communications assembly (41) lose communications with a predetermined minimum number of satellites in the GPS system (61). Also, a sensor (72a) is provided for detecting a guide tape or line (126,130), provided in preselected areas of the golf course. The caddy apparatus (21) is steered along the guide tape (126,130), rather than by the GPS system (61), in certain areas of the course where the GPS system (61) may be inadequate for maximum safe operation of the caddy apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 1997Date of Patent: August 31, 1999Assignee: Golfpro International, Inc.Inventors: Ronald C. Davies, Frederick J. Fowler
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Patent number: 5923096Abstract: An all-electric vehicle control system arranges operator interface controls at a console between a pair of seats, either of which can be used by an operator. The console controls include a joystick arranged in communication with an electronic motor control system for driving and regeneratively braking the vehicle wheels. The joystick is also in communication with an electronic servo amplifier and an electric servo actuator that steers the vehicle electromechanically and provides a closed loop feedback circuit for steering control. Electromagnetically actuated brakes are interposed between drive wheels and electric drive motors and are energized automatically whenever the vehicle rolls to a stop, thereby holding the vehicle still. The console also includes a dynamic brake switch that can energize the electromagnetic brakes for decelerating the vehicle in conjunction with regenerative braking.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 1997Date of Patent: July 13, 1999Assignee: Manak Dynamics Engineering Corp.Inventor: Richard T. Manak
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Patent number: 5899284Abstract: A powered golf bag cart (10) including a frame assembly (20), a free wheel assembly (22), a drive wheel assembly (24), a power delivery assembly (26), a steering assembly (28), and a control assembly (30). For compact storage, the frame assembly (20) of the cart (10) has nestably collapsible base portion (32), central portion (34), and handle portion (36). The power delivery assembly (26) includes a drive motor (128) and a power train assembly (138) for rotatably motivating the drive wheel assembly (24). In this manner all control and motive force is applied via a single ground contacting surface in the drive wheel assembly (24).Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 1997Date of Patent: May 4, 1999Assignee: Sun Mountain Sports, Inc.Inventors: Eric W. Reimers, Franklyn R. Jones
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Patent number: 5839528Abstract: A detachable motorized wheel assembly for a golf cart has a support framework removably attachable to the rear section of a golf cart of the type having oppositely disposed and spaced apart wheels. The assembly includes a motor driven wheel positioned between and rearward of the spaced apart wheels of the golf cart. The assembly further includes a golf bag support device having a number of support loops. Each loop having a first section outwardly disposed from the top of the support framework. Each loop further having a second section disposed upwardly from the first section to form an obtuse angle between the first and second sections.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 1996Date of Patent: November 24, 1998Inventor: John E. Lee
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Patent number: 5836412Abstract: A method of assembling either an electric motor powered car or an internal combustion engine powered car along a single assembly line. The method comprises providing a car chassis having a general block shaped drive system receiving area and, selecting a drive system from a group consisting of an electric motor drive system and an internal combustion engine drive system. The method then comprises connecting the selected drive system to the chassis in the drive system receiving area.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 1993Date of Patent: November 17, 1998Assignee: Textron, Inc.Inventors: Thomas W. Lyles, Robert A. Courtwright, Daniel C. Allen, Edgar Grigsby, Jr.
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Patent number: 5810105Abstract: The ultrasonic tracking control effects that a pacemaker going ahead is automatically tracked by an automotive vehicle at a predetermined distance. To this end, a control unit (13) of the vehicle (10) is equipped with two ultrasonic units (F1,F2) comprising a transceiver device for ultrasonic signals each. The pacemaker going ahead carries a second control unit (14) with a transponder (S) responding to the signals of the ultrasonic units (F1,F2). Upon reception of an ultrasonic signal, the transponder (S) outputs a response signal which is received by the respective ultrasonic unit. The distance of the vehicle from the pacemaker and the tracking angle (.alpha.) are determined in the first control unit (13) from the signals received by the ultrasonic units (F1,F2), and traveling and steering signals are generated such that the vehicle tracks the pacemaker at a predetermined distance.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 1996Date of Patent: September 22, 1998Assignee: Technologietransfer-Anstalt TetraInventor: Wolfram Trainer
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Patent number: 5788317Abstract: A golf cart enclosure (2) for all weather and use conditions having a plurality of pairs of inner panels (34) and outer panels (33), which may be a combination of either mesh and plastic vinyl or plastic vinyl and plastic vinyl panels, some of the plastic panels being transparent. The panels are attached to and suspended from an enclosure top panel (3) over a roof (32) of a golf cart (1). The pairs of panels may cover both sides of the golf cart as well as the front and back of the golf cart as desired and necessary. Depending on weather and use conditions, either or both pairs of panels may be secured in a rolled-up position around a perimeter of the golf cart roof by means of panel-holding straps (35, 37 and 40) wrapped around the rolled-up panels and attached to the panel-holding straps between each pair of panels using snaps or other fasteners. A roll cover (9) to protect the rolled-up panels from sun and other elements may be provided by an extension of the top panel or a separate valance.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 1996Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: Anwill, Inc.Inventor: Roger Nation
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Patent number: 5772272Abstract: Combination golf cart sun visor and storage device includes a visor body configured for being installed on a golf cart, and at least one storage element provided on the visor body. A fastening member is provided that is configured for fastening the visor body to a golf cart; whereby, in use, the fastening member attaches the visor body to the golf cart in the position of a sun visor, and at least one storage element retains objects to be stored.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 1995Date of Patent: June 30, 1998Inventor: Thomas D. Faddis
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Patent number: 5732788Abstract: The golf vehicle has steerable front wheels on a front portion of a frame together with a steering mechanism which includes an upstanding rearwardly inclined handle bar. A pair of drive wheels and a power source drivingly connected to the drive wheels are on a rear portion of the frame. A seat unit is mounted on the rear portion of the frame and has adjustment means for moving the seat rearwardly and forwardly along a plurality of longitudinal positions and for pivoting the seat 360.degree. in any of these longitudinal positions. The pivot axis of the seat is so located that when the seat is pivoted 180.degree. from a front operating position, the front edge of the seat will extend rearwardly beyond the rear end of the frame rear portion so as to readily enable an occupant of the vehicle to make golf shots while seated. In a modification, the seat is fixed on a seat frame which is pivotable and lockable in any of the pivoted positions.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 1996Date of Patent: March 31, 1998Assignee: Electric Mobility CorporationInventor: Fred C. Brown
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Patent number: 5727642Abstract: A golf cart for persons who are obliged to traverse a golf course in a cart which includes a golf bag carrier mechanism, steering assembly, and an adjustable seat to enable the person to swing a golf club without interference with the aforementioned components. The seat may be rotated in either direction from the traversing axis of the cart to enable the person to face the golf ball to be struck. The steering mechanism and the golf bag carrier are capable of being moved to a position free from the swing pattern of the seated person.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 1996Date of Patent: March 17, 1998Inventor: Emerson L. Abbott
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Patent number: 5718301Abstract: A self-propelled golf cart has a cart body which effectively defines a chamber in the rearward portion of the body; the chamber has first and second side walls generally opposed to each other; each of the side walls has a plurality of apertures formed therethrough which respectively communicate with tubular members which are within the chamber and generally between the side walls; and golf clubs are respectively inserted into and through the apertures as to result in the shafts of such clubs extending into respective ones of the tubular members.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 1995Date of Patent: February 17, 1998Assignee: Paragon Classics, Inc.Inventor: Hansford R. Williams
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Patent number: 5711388Abstract: An autonomous personal service robotic apparatus, such as a robotic golf caddy, including a drive assembly for movement of the robotic caddy, a digital computer having memory devices in which are stored a digital map and navigation rules, and having a operations program for the control of performance of personal services, including movement and navigation of the caddy in the environment, and a position determination assembly for determining the position of the robotic device in the environment. The position determination assembly also dynamically determines the position of unmapped elements in the environment and super imposes or overlays them with the mapped elements and position of the robotic apparatus. Position preferably is determined by differential GPS techniques. The navigational rules for the robotic device control its movement in the environment in response to its sensed position in the mapped environment, the sensed unmapped elements and preferably the sensed relative position of the user.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 1996Date of Patent: January 27, 1998Assignee: GolfPro International, Inc.Inventors: Ronald C. Davies, Frederick J. Fowler
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Patent number: 5685385Abstract: An electrically driven cart driven by an electric motor in which a baggage such as golf bag is carried comprises a body frame, a driving source comprising the electric motor, a drive shaft operatively connected to the driving source, a pair of right and left wheels serving as driving wheels which are operatively coupled to be rotatable to both ends of the drive shaft of the motor, a power transmitting mechanism disposed between the drive shaft and the driving wheels to transmit a power of the motor to the driving wheels through the drive shaft, and a carrier secured to the body frame on which a baggage is rested.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 1995Date of Patent: November 11, 1997Assignee: Billcon CorporationInventor: Fumio Sanuga
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Patent number: 5671842Abstract: The golf club bag includes an elongated hollow bag body having an outer skin surrounding a central axis. A rigid base is provided for enclosing a lower end of the bag body. One or more rigid arm members are mounted to an upper portion of the bag body opposite from the lower end and securing structure is provided on a portion of the arm members spacedly offset from the bag body. The rigid arm members are attached to the bag body by means of a pivot joint for permitting the rigid arm members to pivot about a pivot axis, the pivot axis being transverse to the bag central axis. The bag has a rigid base which includes a chamfer formed thereon. The chamfer provides a stable support surface for maintaining the bag in a stationery position with the central axis offset from a vertical orientation.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 1996Date of Patent: September 30, 1997Inventor: Ronald P. Jaworski
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Patent number: 5575413Abstract: A golf bag holder apparatus is adapted to be supported by a sub-base support and includes a first support assembly which includes a first base, a first high-form bag support assembly, and a first low-form bag support assembly adjacent to the first high-form bag support assembly on the first base. The first low-form bag support assembly includes a first bag retention portion projecting upward from the first base. The golf bag holder apparatus also includes a second support assembly which includes a second base, a second high-form bag support assembly, and a second low-form bag support assembly adjacent to the second high-form bag support assembly on the second base. The second low-form bag support assembly includes a second bag retention portion projecting upward from the second base.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 1995Date of Patent: November 19, 1996Inventor: William L. Starry
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Patent number: 5573300Abstract: A utility vehicle with emergency response modules. The emergency response vehicle consists of one of a number of small utility vehicles capable of traversing areas and facilities inaccessable to ordinary street vehicles, and one of a number of modules. A major feature of the invention is the manner in which emergency equipment has been provided in separate modules suited for response to particular emergencies such as fire, ambulance, rescue, or tactical operations by law enforcement personnel. A further feature is the interchangeability of one module for another. Another feature is that the modules may be installed on a number of appropriate small utility vehicles.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 1994Date of Patent: November 12, 1996Inventor: Michael C. Simmons
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Patent number: 5529369Abstract: The latch assembly includes a latch supported member mounted on a latch support post that is mounted on a golf cart or the like and disposed adjacent to a vertical door member, a latch member pivotally mounted on the latch support member, a latch bolt mounted on the door arranged to be releasably retained in a recess formed in the latch support member by the latch member, and a resilient member connected to the latch support member and to the latch member for biasing the latch member toward the position retaining the latch bolt and door.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 1995Date of Patent: June 25, 1996Inventor: Robert B. Welborn
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Patent number: 5526894Abstract: A power- and/or manually- driven golf cart which is collapsible, without disassembly, into a compacted configuration for storing or transporting, and extendable, without assembly, into an operable or usable configuration for carrying a golf bag about a golf course. The golf cart includes a golf bag support frame, a pair of lateral support members pivotally connected to the frame and to a pair of ground support wheels, a power-driven wheel supported at the lower end of golf bag support frame, and a power drive mounted on the front side of the frame. A hinge is operably connected between a lower end of the upper frame member and an upper end of the lower frame member to permit the upper frame member and the lower frame member to be pivotally moved between a substantially aligned extended position and a substantially adjacent folded position. At least two connecting rods are pivotally connected at one end to the upper frame member and at their other ends to one of the lateral support members.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 1995Date of Patent: June 18, 1996Inventor: Eric J. F. Wang
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Patent number: 5517098Abstract: An automatic tracking mobile platform that works logically and practically. The process of making it is simple and cost efficient. An emitter is carried by the user; this emitter transmits various electromagnetic signals including infrared, visible light, laser, or ultraviolet. The platform has electromagnetic sensors connected to its front wheel which synchronously turn with it, and these three sensors are separated by panels. The panels block one sensor from the others so that only one sensor can respond to the transmitter at any one time to turn the platform left or right. An electrical motor and a mechanical steering wheel are connected to the front wheel, which drives the mobile platform. The receiver is set to screen electromagnetic signals from the transmitter so the platform can turn to the left, turn to the right, start, or stop to accomplish its automatic tracking purpose.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 1994Date of Patent: May 14, 1996Inventor: Dawei Dong
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Patent number: 5489121Abstract: A device for mounting to the steering column of a golf cart for supporting and displaying looseleaf pages, in particular for displaying golf course information. The device includes a base for supporting pages generally perpendicular to the cart's steering column. A binder is secured to the base for holding the looseleaf pages and an attachment element is provided for mounting the device to the steering column of the golf cart.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 1994Date of Patent: February 6, 1996Inventor: Christopher G. Mohr
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Patent number: 5477116Abstract: An automobile is provided with a speed control system operably connected to a drive system of the automobile. The speed control system includes an accelerator pedal assembly having an accelerator pedal movably connected to a frame of the assembly, an actuator rod connected to the accelerator pedal, and an induction sensor stationarily connected to the frame. The sensor is adapted to generate an electrical output signal corresponding to the position of the actuator rod relative to the sensor without the actuator rod contacting the sensor. The accelerator pedal assembly is connected to the chassis of the automobile as a substantially modular unit.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 1993Date of Patent: December 19, 1995Assignee: Textron Inc.Inventor: James C. Journey
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Patent number: 5452773Abstract: A side load carrier golf cart is provided which consists of a body member having a front portion, a central portion and a rear portion. A mechanism is within the rear portion of the body member for holding a pair of golf bags at an angle upwardly and forwardly to a side of a driver and passenger in the central portion of the body member. The driver and passenger can remove their clubs from their golf bags without having to leave the central portion of the body member.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 1993Date of Patent: September 26, 1995Inventor: Dennis J. Hrupka
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Patent number: 5429290Abstract: A retrofitable passenger/cargo carrier unit for standard utility golf carts is disclosed. The passenger/cargo carrier unit is designed to be retrofitable to any passenger type golf cart and is mountable to the cart without drilling holes in the cart through the use of adjustable clamps which hold onto existing support tubes found such carts. The carrier unit converts readily between a cargo carrier and passenger carrier which is capable of carrying up to two extra passengers. The passengers are seated parallel to the direction of motion of the cart and passenger additional safety is provided by a rear gate. A "swing-away" clamp is disclosed for use with the passenger/cargo carrier which allows the existing golf bag holder assembly to swing out of the way of rear passengers or cargo; thus assuring the functionality of the carrier. Further a rear canopy for the protection of rear passengers or cargo is disclosed which attaches to the carrier.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 1993Date of Patent: July 4, 1995Inventor: George J. Greene, Jr.
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Patent number: 5429404Abstract: A golf cart enclosure system for the creation and maintenance of a pleasant climate within a golf cart during poor weather conditions and for allowing simultaneously care-free ingress and egress with respect to the golf cart without the golfer having to open a door on the golf cart, with the enclosure system including flexible partable strips of see-through plastic which extend across the vertical dimension between the golf cart canopy and the golf cart body, the top ends of the flexible strips being attached with a semi-permanent attachment device to the golf cart canopy in a rear-to-front overlapping fashion, so that during forward motion of the cart, the strips remain in position and in contact with one another; the bottom ends of the strips connected to the golf cart body by permanent magnets, or electromagnets wired to the golf cart battery and activated either automatically by the driver's footpedal, or by an on-board switch, with the enclosure system also including a front and back protective panel, thType: GrantFiled: March 7, 1994Date of Patent: July 4, 1995Inventor: Lloyd H. King, Sr.
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Patent number: 5393118Abstract: A custom fitting closure for golf carts that includes horizontally swinging doors that are framed by a U-shaped members having hinges on their free ends with the hinges mounted on the cart. The doors are covered to protect the rider from the element.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 1994Date of Patent: February 28, 1995Inventor: Robert B. Welborn
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Patent number: 5387010Abstract: An apparatus for mounting to a golf cart for supporting and displaying looseleaf pages, in particular for displaying golf course information. The apparatus includes a base for supporting looseleaf pages at an oblique angle relative to the cowl of the golf cart. A binder is secured to the base for holding the looseleaf pages and a first attachment element is provided for securing the base to the cowl at the edge. A second attachment element is provided for also attaching the base to the cowl. In a second preferred form, the apparatus is configured for mounting to the steering column of the golf cart, rather than to the cowl itself.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 1993Date of Patent: February 7, 1995Inventor: Christopher G. Mohr
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Patent number: 5385379Abstract: An improved split windshield-assembly of the type for attachment to a pair of laterally spaced and vertically extending front support posts of a recreation vehicle includes a lower windshield panel and an upper windshield panel. The upper windshield panel is pivotally connected along a top side edge of the lower windshield panel, and is movable from a closed position to an open position. The improvement in the windshield assembly includes a retainer clip and fastener located on an upper portion of a least one of the front support posts to releasably hold the upper windshield panel in the closed position.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 1994Date of Patent: January 31, 1995Assignee: Plastics Manufacturing, Inc.Inventor: Edward J. Heavner
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Patent number: 5385380Abstract: An improved split windshield assembly includes a retainer clip constructed of a flexible material, and a flexible, hollow clamp. The clip is for being attached to an upper portion of at least one of the front support posts of a recreation vehicle for releasably holding the upper windshield panel in a closed position. The hollow clamp has a base, and first and second hollow arms. The base is fixedly attached to the lower windshield panel at a lower portion thereof. The first and second hollow arms have opposed, closely spaced-apart inside surfaces which define a longitudinally-extending, windshield-holding channel. The windshield-holding channel engages and holds a curved top edge of the upper windshield panel when the upper windshield panel is in the open position.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 1993Date of Patent: January 31, 1995Assignee: Plastics Manufacturing, Inc.Inventor: Edward J. Heavner
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Patent number: 5375673Abstract: An accessory drive unit for attachment to the central support member of a non-motorized golf bag cart having two rear wheels, the accessory drive unit including a front wheel drive unit having a front wheel, a motor within the front wheel, control circuitry for controlling the speed and direction of rotation of the front wheel, and structure to steer the front wheel unit.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 1993Date of Patent: December 27, 1994Inventors: Amiel J. McCall, Roger M. Marino
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Patent number: 5363934Abstract: A wheelchair is provided which due to its weight distribution and general design is particularly suited for enabling disabled people to play golf to a sufficient standard to enable them to play on a proper golf course and alongside able-bodied players. The wheelchair does not damage the golf course because it distributes its weight onto a wide surface area of the ground by virtue of wide wheels. A seat can be automatically raised so as to enable the wheelchair user to be lifted from a sitting position to a standing position at which the wheelchair user can play a proper golfing stroke using conventional golf clubs. The front wheel units have a wider track than the rear wheel units in order to provide lateral stability when the golfing stroke is being played. Relatively heavy components such as the lightweight battery unit and the seat adjustment mechanism are positioned low down in the wheelchair in order to provide a low center of gravity.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 1993Date of Patent: November 15, 1994Assignee: Nicholas E. EdmundInventors: Nicholas E. Edmund, Steven H. M. Kyffin
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Patent number: 5346028Abstract: The invention is a golf cart with a motor for the transport of golf equipment and one person. It is equipped with a steering mechanism which enables an individual to drive the cart while sitting on a seat, standing on a board located behind the seat, or walking behind the cart.Type: GrantFiled: January 4, 1993Date of Patent: September 13, 1994Inventor: Nicola Cassano
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Patent number: 5343128Abstract: A device for at least partially driving a vehicle, such as a golf buggy, a trolley, or a parcel carrier, which is adapted to be pushed or pulled by an operator in a forward or a reverse direction. The device comprises a wheel adapted to rotate about an axle of the vehicle, the wheel having an internal chamber; and an electromagnetic assembly located in the chamber operable to provide drive for the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 1992Date of Patent: August 30, 1994Inventors: Carlo L. Beltrame, Arthur J. Barnes
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Patent number: 5341894Abstract: A golf cart includes a seat that can be adjusted in several planes whereby an ambulatory disadvantaged golfer can safely operate the golf cart by himself and can be supported in a position to execute a golf shot. The golf cart positions the golfer so that his or her golf swing will not be inhibited by the golf cart and the golfer can adjust his stance to accommodate various terrains and golf club lengths. The golf cart has the steering wheel on the right hand side and the seat swings 90.degree. from a forward facing driving orientation into a sideways facing playing orientation, then adjusts up or down, moves forward, and tilts to keep the golfer's legs and feet out of the way of the golf swing. Safety systems prevent movement of the seat when the cart is in motion and prevent movement of the cart when the seat is not in the driving orientation, and the cart braking and accelerator systems are operated using a single hand lever.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 1993Date of Patent: August 30, 1994Inventors: John E. Van Gorder, Jr., Gary A. Piotrowski, Barnard Piotrowski, Jr.
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Patent number: 5319368Abstract: A limiting system having a sensor probe extending from the bottom, which makes contact to the traveled surface beneath a golf car, under which the device is mounted. The golf car control device has the capacity to differentiate between a golf car path, or if grass, audibly notifies as such. If path recognition by the golf car path control device is not differentiated when a first preset time interval expires, then operator of the golf car will be warned and after a second preset time interval the operation of the golf car may be terminated. The same limiting system has an internal capacity to recognize a preset impact force originating from an angle at a horizontal plane; responding more sensitively to that force from the front or rear of a vehicle versus from the side, and if the preset force is exceeded, thence terminating operation of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 1992Date of Patent: June 7, 1994Inventor: Ernest M. Poholek
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Patent number: 5314202Abstract: A golf car towing hitch system for towing a three or four wheeled golf car behind a passenger vehicle or light truck with the rear two wheels of the golf car elevated off of the ground. A hoist mounted on a rotable mast for lifting the rear of the golf car is included. Receiver or bar hitches may be used.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 1992Date of Patent: May 24, 1994Inventor: Guy Wilkins, Jr.
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Patent number: 5310235Abstract: A weatherproof flexible enclosure with 360 degree visability constructed to completely surround the roof and sides of most gasoline or electric powered golf carts for protection during inclement weather. The surround, top and rear panels are sewn together on top and front of the surround with an elastic sewn and stretched across the rear for flexibility in fitting both large and small golf carts. A top and rear sheet covering the golf club area is attached by the hook and loop system at two select intervals on each side to the rear of the front surround sheet on both sides, securing passengers, golf cart, clubs and bag from inclement weather. When removed from the cart, the enclosure may be folded and stored in a standard size golf bag.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 1992Date of Patent: May 10, 1994Inventors: Timothy B. Seymour, Jack H. Riley
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Patent number: 5307889Abstract: A golf cart or other personal utility vehicle includes a wheeled platform, a wheeled gooseneck frame detachably secured at the rear of the platform, and a detachable steering handle for turning a powered wheel on the gooseneck frame for steering purposes. A detachable upright post provides support for a conventional golf bag and set of clubs. A forwardly facing occupant seat is detachably mounted to the gooseneck frame, thereby placing the weight of an occupant substantially upon the rear driving and steering wheel. The golf cart provides a mechanized vehicle capable of use on all types of terrain. It can be readily disassembled for storage and transport within the trunk or cargo area of a conventional passenger automobile.Type: GrantFiled: January 4, 1993Date of Patent: May 3, 1994Inventor: William D. Bohannan
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Patent number: 5277267Abstract: A collapsible, portable golf cart including a main frame assembly and a wheel assembly operatively connected to the main frame assembly for movement of the main frame assembly along a surface. The golf cart further includes a collapsible support assembly operatively connected to the main said frame assembly for selective movement between an erected position and a collapsed position relative to the main frame assembly. A seating member for a cart rider is operatively connected to the collapsible support means for movement with the collapsible support means between the above mentioned positions.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 1991Date of Patent: January 11, 1994Inventor: Charles E. Tiffany
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Patent number: 5265695Abstract: A portable collapsible golf cart vehicle adapted for use on a golf fairway and collapsible for storage and transport. A scooter-type vehicle having a steering mechanism and rear propelling mechanism in which the steering mechanism includes a steering column coupled with a steering handle for rotation of the steering column. A pivotal connection is provided for pivotally connecting and locking the steering mechanism in one position during propelling of the vehicle and in another position for storage of the vehicle. The mechanism includes a pivotal unit and a rear wheel with the pivotal unit being in a first position for use in a scooter vehicle and in a second position for storage in the compact condition.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 1992Date of Patent: November 30, 1993Inventor: Roberto Piazzi
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Patent number: 5265686Abstract: A steering mechanism for a remotely-controlled golf caddie having a drive motor coupled to a steering assembly by a non-positive coupling. The non-positive coupling between the drive motor and the steering assembly allows the steering assembly to disengage from the drive motor when the caddie runs into an obstruction. Also, the steering mechanism uses a potentiometer assembly for allowing the caddie to center itself after receiving a command to turn left or right.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 1991Date of Patent: November 30, 1993Assignee: Machen Designs, Inc.Inventor: Edmund H. Machen
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Patent number: 5259656Abstract: A new golf cart enclosure has a top panel (14) with roll cover (5) attachable to a top (13) of a golf cart (4) or other vehicle or structure (32) above an area to be enclosed. Roll-up side panels (1-3 and 37) made of flexible and selectively transparent materials are attachable to the top of the golf cart (4) or structure at a position under the roll cover (5). This allows the roll-up side panels (18) to be rolled up under the roll cover (5) at select sides of the golf cart or structure to protect the transparent panels (1-3 and 37) from sun and other elements. The roll-up side panels in rolled-up condition are then held in a position under the roll cover with straps (20). The roll cover (5) can be positioned on top of the golf cart (4) or structure (32) such that the roll cover (5) has a plurality of edges at a plurality of sides of the golf cart or structure. The roll cover overhangs edges of the golf cart or structure and overlies rolled-up side panels (18) like flexible eaves.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 1992Date of Patent: November 9, 1993Inventor: Larry W. Carroll
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Patent number: RE35757Abstract: An improved split windshield assembly includes a retainer clip constructed of a flexible material, and a flexible, hollow clamp. The clip is for being attached to an upper portion of at least one of the front support posts of a recreation vehicle for releasably holding the upper windshield panel in a closed position. The hollow clamp has a base, and first and second hollow arms. The base is fixedly attached to the lower windshield panel at a lower portion thereof. The first and second hollow arms have opposed, closely spaced-apart inside surfaces which define a longitudinally-extending, windshield-holding channel. The windshield-holding channel engages and holds a curved top edge of the upper windshield panel when the upper windshield panel is in the open position.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 1995Date of Patent: March 31, 1998Assignee: Plastics Manufacturing, Inc.Inventor: Edward J. Heavner