U.S. patent application number 14/281556 was filed with the patent office on 2014-11-13 for marking device for a personal mobility vehicle.
This patent application is currently assigned to RAZOR USA LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is RAZOR USA LLC. Invention is credited to Robert Hadley, Steve Sramek, Bradley James Williams.
Application Number | 20140333054 14/281556 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42557016 |
Filed Date | 2014-11-13 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140333054 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hadley; Robert ; et
al. |
November 13, 2014 |
MARKING DEVICE FOR A PERSONAL MOBILITY VEHICLE
Abstract
A marking device that is supported by a personal mobility
vehicle, such as a scooter, is movable from a first position, in
which the marking device does not contact the riding surface, and a
second position, in which the marking device contacts the riding
surface. The marking device includes an attachment portion and a
marking portion that creates markings on the riding surface as a
result of frictional contact with the riding surface. The marking
device can also include an actuation portion which is accessible to
the user and allows the user to move the marking device to the
second position. In one arrangement, the marking device includes an
elastic marking member which is configured to bend in order to
maintain contact with the riding surface.
Inventors: |
Hadley; Robert; (Yorba
Linda, CA) ; Sramek; Steve; (Long Beach, CA) ;
Williams; Bradley James; (Long Beach, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
RAZOR USA LLC |
Cerritos |
CA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
RAZOR USA LLC
Cerritos
CA
|
Family ID: |
42557016 |
Appl. No.: |
14/281556 |
Filed: |
May 19, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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13745615 |
Jan 18, 2013 |
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14281556 |
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|
12818045 |
Jun 17, 2010 |
8356840 |
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13745615 |
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61268947 |
Jun 18, 2009 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
280/762 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B43K 19/003 20130101;
B43K 29/00 20130101; B62J 99/00 20130101; A63C 17/26 20130101; B62J
11/22 20200201; B62K 3/002 20130101; B62K 15/006 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
280/762 |
International
Class: |
B43K 19/00 20060101
B43K019/00; A63C 17/26 20060101 A63C017/26 |
Claims
1. A marking device for a personal mobility vehicle, the personal
mobility vehicle having a body and at least one wheel, the marking
device comprising: an attachment portion configured to be supported
by a personal mobility vehicle; a marking portion that generates
markings when in frictional contact with a riding surface; a first
position in which the marking portion does not contact the riding
surface; a second position in which the marking portion contacts
the riding surface; a locking mechanism configured to hold the
marking device in the second position; wherein the marking device
can be fixed in the first position and also can be fixed in the
second position so that a user does not need to act upon the
marking device in order for the marking device to remain fixed in
either the first position or the second position.
2. The marking device of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the
marking device is rotatably supported relative to a personal
mobility vehicle.
3. The marking device of claim 1, further comprising an actuation
member, wherein the marking device can be moved from the first
position to the second position by acting upon the actuation
member.
4. The marking device of claim 1, wherein the marking portion
comprises a marking material and an elastic portion, wherein the
elastic portion bends along its longitudinal axis, thus biasing the
marking material towards contact with the riding surface.
5. The marking device of claim 1, wherein the marking device is
normally biased towards the first position and away from the second
position.
6. The marking device of claim 1, further comprising a second
locking mechanism that selectively locks the marking device in the
first position.
Description
PRIORITY INFORMATION
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 13/745,615 filed Jan. 18, 2013, titled
"MARKING DEVICE FOR A PERSONAL MOBILITY VEHICLE", which is a
continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/818,045 filed
Jun. 17, 2010, titled "MARKING DEVICE FOR A PERSONAL MOBILITY
VEHICLE", which issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,356,840, which claims
benefit under 35 U.S.C. .sctn.119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 61/268,947, filed Jun. 18, 2009, entitled "CHALK
HOLDER FOR SCOOTER," the entireties of which are hereby expressly
incorporated by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] Embodiments of the invention relate generally to personal
mobility vehicles and, more specifically, to a scooter with a
marking device.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] The use of personal mobility vehicles, such as scooters, has
become a popular recreational activity. Scooters have become
popular among many age groups and there are many different scooter
variations and scooter designs. Conventional scooters generally
have at least two wheels and some type of steering mechanism. Other
scooter designs include three or more wheels. Scooter designs have
also become more compact and convenient. With the increase in
scooter popularity, there has also been a significant increase in
the demand for scooter accessories.
[0006] The generation of markings is one feature that has been
added to a personal mobility vehicle in at least one instance. U.S.
Pat. No. 5,895,702 to Coroneos discloses an inline skate that
includes a chalk-holding mechanism at the rear of the skate. The
chalk-holding mechanism is biased toward a marking position, in
which a piece of chalk is held in contact with the ground surface
when the skate is used by a skater. However, with such an
arrangement, if it desired to use the skates without making marks,
the chalk-holding mechanism must be removed from the skate.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0007] Preferred embodiments of the scooter, or other personal
mobility vehicle, and marking device are configured to allow a user
to generate markings as desired while using the vehicle. A user can
produce markings while maintaining control of the vehicle.
Furthermore, certain of the preferred embodiments allow the user to
conveniently activate a marking device as desired with his or her
foot without releasing his or her hands. Certain preferred
embodiments are configured so that the marking device is located
proximate to the feet of the user so that the user is not required
to move his or her foot a large distance in order to activate the
marking device.
[0008] A preferred embodiment is a marking device for a personal
mobility vehicle, such as a scooter, the vehicle having a support
member and at least one wheel. The marking device has a body, which
includes an attachment portion configured to be supported by a
vehicle. The body also includes an actuator portion that is
accessible to the foot of a user. The marking device also includes
a marking assembly supported by the body that generates markings
when in contact with a riding surface. The marking device has an
engaged position in which the marking assembly is in contact with
the riding surface. The marking device also has a locking mechanism
configured to hold the marking device in the engaged position. The
marking device is movable to the engaged position in response to
the user acting upon the actuator portion and the marking device is
releasable from the engaged position in response to the user acting
upon the marking device.
[0009] Another preferred embodiment is a marking device for a
personal mobility vehicle, such as a scooter. The vehicle has a
body and at least one wheel. The marking device includes an
attachment portion configured to be supported by a personal
mobility vehicle. The marking device also includes a marking
assembly that generates markings when in frictional contact with a
riding surface. The marking device has a first position in which
the marking assembly does not contact the riding surface and a
second position in which the marking assembly contacts the riding
surface. The marking device can be fixed in the first position and
also can be fixed in the second position. In some arrangements, the
marking device can be moved from the first position to the second
position by acting upon an actuation member.
[0010] In another embodiment, a personal mobility vehicle, such as
a scooter, includes a body configured to support a user and at
least one wheel supported by the body and rotatable around an axis.
The vehicle also includes a marking mechanism supported by the
body. The marking mechanism includes an attachment member
configured to be supported by the body. The marking mechanism also
includes an elastic member with a first portion and a second
portion. The first portion is supported by the attachment member.
The marking mechanism includes a marking material configured to
generate markings when in frictional contact with a riding surface.
The second portion of the elastic member is configured to support
the marking material and bias the marking material towards a
position in which the marking material contacts the riding surface.
The elastic member is configured to bend in order to assist in
maintaining contact between the marking material and the riding
surface.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the
present invention are described below with reference to drawings of
preferred embodiments, which are intended to illustrate, but not to
limit, the present invention. The drawings contain 8 figures.
[0012] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a scooter
and marking device.
[0013] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the marking device of FIG.
1.
[0014] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the marking device of FIG. 1
with its parts exploded or removed.
[0015] FIGS. 4A-E illustrate the interaction between the members of
the marking device of FIG. 1, during engaging and disengaging of
the marking mechanism.
[0016] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a marking
device with its parts exploded or removed.
[0017] FIG. 6 illustrates the various parts of the locking
mechanism of the marking device of FIG. 5.
[0018] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a
scooter and marking device.
[0019] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a portion of the marking
device of FIG. 7.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0020] In the following detailed description, terms of orientation
such as "top," "bottom," "upward," "downward," "lower," "front,"
"frontward," "rear," "rearward," and "end" are used to simplify the
description of the context of the illustrated embodiments.
Likewise, terms of sequence, such as "first" and "second," are used
to simplify the description of the illustrated embodiments.
However, other orientations and sequences are possible, and the
present invention should not be limited to the illustrated
orientation(s). Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other
orientations of the various components are possible.
[0021] FIG. 1 illustrates a marking device supported by a personal
mobility vehicle and, in particular, a scooter and having certain
features, aspects and advantages of the present invention. The
scooter includes a scooter body 20, which includes a deck 26 and a
handlebar assembly 24. Preferably, the upper surface of the deck 26
includes a foot rest surface 23 which is configured to support a
foot or the feet of a user. The scooter includes one or more wheels
21, 22 supported by the scooter body 20. The illustrated scooter
includes a pair of wheels spaced apart from one another with the
deck 26 extending therebetween. Preferably, the wheels 21, 22 are
aligned in the same plane, as illustrated, and located at opposite
ends of the deck 26. As illustrated, a preferred embodiment of the
scooter also includes a head tube 25 which rotatably supports the
handlebar assembly 24 so that the handlebar assembly 24 can rotate
or swivel within the head tube 25. Preferably, the handlebar 27
height can be adjusted by sliding telescoping portions of the
handlebar assembly 24 relative to one another in a direction toward
or away from the deck 26. The body includes a support assembly 29
between the head tube 25 and the deck 26. In the illustrated
arrangement, the support assembly 29 permits the handlebar assembly
24 to be folded relative to the deck 26. A pivoting mechanism 28 is
configured to allow the support assembly 29 and head tube 25 to
rotate with respect to the scooter body 20.
[0022] In one arrangement, the scooter body 20 supports a marking
device 30 configured to create markings on a surface upon which the
scooter is ridden. The marking device 30 includes a marking
assembly 32 or mechanism that is configured to generate markings on
the riding surface in response to frictional contact with the
surface. As illustrated, the marking device 30 is supported by a
scooter. However, the marking device 30 can be configured to be
attached to or supported by any personal mobility vehicle,
including scooters, skateboards, bicycles, rollerblades, tricycles,
foot powered toys, children's riding toys, etc. The term "personal
mobility vehicle" is a broad term, used herein in accordance with
its ordinary meaning, and includes a multitude of vehicles having a
body to support a user and at least one wheel. Personal mobility
vehicles can fully support a user or only partially support a user,
and they can have one wheel or multiple wheels and can be powered
or unpowered.
[0023] In one embodiment, the marking device 30 includes a marking
assembly 32 with at least one and preferably several marking
members which are elastic. The marking assembly 32 or mechanism has
a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is
supported by the marking device 30 and scooter body 20. The second
portion of the marking assembly 32 contacts the riding surface.
Preferably, the second portion of the marking assembly 32 is
configured to generate markings or, alternatively, supports a
material that is configured to generate markings. The illustrated
marking assembly 32 bends in order to maintain contact between the
riding surface and the marking assembly 32 or marking material.
When in use, the marking assembly 32 bends or deforms about its
default longitudinal axis. The elastic marking assembly 32 can be
configured to have a certain length such that it is forced to bend
about its longitudinal axis when it or the marking material its
supports contacts the riding surface. Preferably, the marking
assembly 32 comprises a spring that holds a marking material, such
as chalk, as is described below. However, in other embodiments, the
marking member could include a solid member or comprise material
that does not bend.
[0024] The marking device 30 can be configured to always be in
contact with a riding surface while the scooter (or other vehicle)
is in normal use. However, in the illustrated arrangement, the
marking device 30 is supported by the scooter body 20 and has
selectable first and second positions. The marking device includes
a marking assembly 32 with at least one marking member which is
configured to generate markings when in contact with the riding
surface. In the first position, the marking assembly 32 does not
contact the riding surface. In the second position, the marking
assembly 32 contacts the riding surface. Preferably, the marking
device 30 is user actuated so that the user can act upon the
marking device in order move it from the first position to the
second position or from the second position to the first position.
Preferably, the marking device is biased towards one position or
the other by a spring or other tensioning or force exerting
mechanism. In some embodiments, the marking device 30 can be fixed
in the first position and/or it can also be fixed in the second
position. The first position and second positions can be
non-marking and marking positions, respectively, that correspond
generally with the uppermost and lowermost rotational positions of
the marking device 30. However, the first and second positions can
also be selected intermediate positions between the two outer ends
of the range of movement of the marking device 30. In addition,
more than two distinct positions are possible. The marking device
30 may be positionable in a plurality of positions, multiple of
which may be marking or non-marking, or infinitely adjustable
within the range of movement of the marking device 30. Although the
illustrated marking device 30 includes an actuation assembly
(described further below) that permits the marking device 30 to be
moved between selected positions by acting on the actuation
assembly, in other arrangements the marking device 30 may be
manually adjustable into a desired one of two or more positions.
Alternatively, the marking device 30 could be fixed in a single
position.
[0025] FIG. 2 illustrates the marking device 30 supported by the
scooter body 20. As illustrated, the marking device 30 is supported
by the scooter body 20 at a location proximate a rear wheel 22.
However, an embodiment of the marking device could be supported at
various locations and proximate different portions of a scooter.
The marking device 30 includes a body 31 which includes an
attachment portion 36. Preferably, as shown, the attachment portion
36 and body 31 are rotatable in relation to the scooter body 20.
The attachment portion 36 can also be supported in other
configurations that allow relative movement between the marking
device 30 and the scooter body 20. For example, the attachment
portion 36 can also be fixedly supported or supported in a way that
allows translational movement with respect to the scooter body 20.
In one such arrangement, the marking device 30 can be supported by
the scooter body 20 in a manner that allows the entire marking
device 30 to move vertically relative to the scooter body 20 by
using a slot or track.
[0026] The marking device 30 includes a marking portion or assembly
32 supported by the body 31 and configured to generate markings on
a riding surface when in frictional contact with the riding
surface. Preferably, the marking assembly 32 comprises one or more
elastic members or springs 33, each configured to bend about its
longitudinal or default axis, labeled L in FIG. 2. As shown, the
longitudinal axis L extends lengthwise through the center of the
circular cross-section of the spring 33. In the illustrated
arrangement, the marking assembly 32 comprises a coiled spring 33
which can bend about its longitudinal axis L in an elastic manner.
The illustrated marking device 30 includes three marking assemblies
32.
[0027] As illustrated, the marking assembly 32 can comprise linear
coil springs 33. Preferably, the coils of each spring 33 are in
contact with one another or very close to being in contact with one
another in a relaxed state of the spring 33. However, the spring 33
can also be arranged so that there is space between the coils.
Preferably, the spring 33 is rigid enough to hold a marking
material 40 against the riding surface with sufficient force to
create substantial markings on the riding surface. Also, the spring
33 is preferably elastic enough to conform to the riding surface so
that markings are generated even on uneven or rough surfaces. The
spring 33 also preserves contact between the riding surface and the
marking material 40 even as the marking material 40 is consumed and
changes length and/or shape. Preferably, one or more
characteristics of the spring 33 (e.g., spring constant, wire
diameter, length, outer diameter or inner diameter) are selected
such that, in use, the spring 33 is rigid enough to hold a marking
material 40 against the riding surface with sufficient force to
create substantial markings on the riding surface, is elastic
enough to conform to the riding surface, and accommodates changes
in length and/or shape of the marking material 40 as a result of
consumption of the marking material 40. However, other values may
be selected or used depending on the desired characteristics of the
marking device 30.
[0028] The marking assembly 32 also preferably includes a marking
material 40 which is configured to generate markings when in
frictional contact with the riding surface. Preferably, the marking
material 40 is chalk, but it can be any material capable of
generating markings on the riding surface. In other embodiments,
the marking assembly 32 allows very limited bending or is rigid. In
yet other embodiments, the marking assembly 32 comprises only a
marking material which is supported by the body 31.
[0029] The marking device also includes an actuation portion 34
which is preferably an integrated portion of the body 31. In other
embodiments, the actuation portion could be a separate member
supported by the body 31 of the marking device 30. The actuation
portion 34 is located proximate the foot of a user as the user
rides the scooter. Preferably, the actuation portion 34 is
configured to be conveniently actuated by the foot of a user by
being located proximate the scooter body 20 and the rear wheel 22.
The actuation portion 34 is also configured in a shape and size
that is easily actuated by the foot of a user. The marking device
30 also includes a button 38 and corresponding locking mechanism
and release mechanism.
[0030] FIG. 3 illustrates the marking device of FIG. 2 with certain
of its parts and members unassembled. The marking device 30
includes a support or fitting member 44 which is configured to be
supported by the scooter body 20. In the illustrated embodiment,
the fitting member 44 is fixed with respect to the scooter body 20.
Preferably, a portion of the fitting member 44 slides in between
flanges of the deck 26 and is supported by and within the scooter
body 20. The marking device 30 also includes a rotation or support
pin 54. The illustrated pin 54 includes a shaft portion and a screw
portion with a threaded engagement therebetween. However, other
suitable arrangements may also be used. The support pin 54 is
supported by the fitting member 44 and configured to allow the body
31 of the marking device 30 to rotate with respect to the fitting
member 44 and scooter body 20. Preferably, the body 31 is supported
by the support pin 54 and rotates about the longitudinal axis of
the support pin 54. The marking device 30 also includes a biasing
member or spring 46 which is supported by the fitting member 44 and
configured to apply a force on the body 31 of the marking device 30
so that the body 31 is biased in a rotational direction.
Preferably, the biasing spring 46 biases the body 31 towards a
position in which marking does not occur. However, in other
embodiments, the biasing member could be configured to bias the
marking device 30 towards a position in which marking occurs. Also,
in some embodiments, the biasing member is not necessarily a spring
and instead could be any device or member that applies a pressure
or force to bias the marking device 30 in a desired direction.
[0031] The marking device 30 includes a locking pin 52 which is
supported by the fitting member 44. The locking pin 52 can include
a shaft portion and a screw portion with a threaded engagement
therebetween, similar to the support pin 54. The locking pin 52 can
move in a locking slot 62 toward and away from the support pin 54,
but the locking pin 52 is held in substantially the same plane as
the support pin 54 by a slot in the fitting member 44 through which
the locking pin 52 passes. A guided block 60 is configured with the
locking slot 62a, which accommodates the locking pin 52. The guided
block 60 is rotatably supported by the support pin 54 and can
rotate with respect to the scooter body 20 and fitting member 44.
Preferably, the attachment portion 36 of the body 31 also includes
a corresponding locking slot 62b. A biasing member or locking
spring 58 is configured to bias the locking pin 52 towards a locked
position within the locking slot 62 and away from the support pin
54. The locking pin 52 and locking slot 62 can be configured to
allow the marking device to be locked in at least one desired
position, as described below.
[0032] A release member 50 is supported within the guided block 60
by the locking pin 52 and a release member support pin 64. The
release member 50 is configured to move horizontally within the
guided block 60 and move the locking pin 52 relative to the fitting
member 44 to release the locking pin 52 from a locked position in
the locking slot 62a, 62b (collectively referred to by the
reference number 62). A button 38 is supported by the body 31 and
configured to be accessible to a user. Preferably, when a user
actuates the button 38, the release member 50 moves horizontally
and moves the locking pin 52 from a locked position and to a
different position within the locking slot 62. Alternatively, the
button 38 can be a lever or other device configured to activate a
release by the release member 50.
[0033] As described above, the body 31 of the marking device 30
includes an actuation portion 34 and a marking assembly 32 with
elastic members or springs 33. As illustrated, the elastic members
33 can be elastic coil springs which are supported by corresponding
portions of the body 31. The marking assembly 32 or elastic members
33 can be removably coupled to the body 31, or instead can be built
into the body 31 or coupled using a friction fit and/or adhesive.
In the illustrated embodiment, marking material 40 is assembled to
the elastic members 33 so that at least a portion of the marking
material 40 is held within the elastic members 33. Advantageously,
with the coil spring elastic members 33, the chalk can be threaded
into an interior space of the coil spring and securely held in an
efficient and simple manner.
[0034] FIGS. 4A-4E illustrate the marking device 30 of FIG. 2 and
its various members in several relative positions. In FIG. 4A, the
marking device 30 is in a position in which the body 31 is rotated
upward away from the riding surface so that the marking assembly 32
and marking material 40 do not contact the riding surface. This
position is a non-marking position and, preferably, the marking
device 30 can remain fixed in this position as the user rides on
the scooter and until it is acted upon. When the marking device 30
is in the non-marking position, the biasing spring 46 biases the
body 31 upwards so that it remains in this position. The locking
pin 52 is in the disengaged position within the locking slot 62.
Because the biasing spring 46 biases the body 31 and the locking
slot 62 upwards and towards the non-marking position, the locking
pin 52 remains in the disengaged position of the locking slot
62.
[0035] The body 31 is configured to be rotatable with respect to
the scooter body 20 and about the axis of the support pin 54. When
the actuation portion 34 is acted upon by a downward force
(represented by the arrow labeled F), the body 31 rotates downward,
as shown in FIG. 4B. As the body 31 rotates downward towards a
position in which the marking assembly 32 contacts the riding
surface, the locking slot 62 moves downward causing the locking pin
52 to move relatively upward from the disengaged position in the
slot 62. The actuation force continues to rotate the body 31
downward until the locking pin 52 reaches the point where the shape
of the locking slot 62 permits the locking pin 52 to move forward.
At this point, the locking pin 52 can move horizontally within the
slot 62, due to the shape of the slot 62. The locking spring 58,
which biases the locking pin 52 towards the engaged or locked
position, forces the locking pin 52 into the engaged or locked
position, as shown in FIG. 4C.
[0036] In the locked position shown in FIG.4C, the marking assembly
32 is in position to cause the marking material 40 to contact the
riding surface and generate markings. Preferably, as described
above, the marking assembly 32 includes elastic members or springs
33 that are forced to bend when the marking material 40 is placed
in contact with the riding surface. The body 31 is fixed in this
position and will remain in the marking position until acted upon
by the user. In order to release the marking device 30 from this
engaged marking position, the user applies a downward force on the
button 38. As illustrated in FIG. 4D, the button 38 is configured
to release the locking pin 52 from the engaged or locked position
within the locking slot 62. The button 38 has a cam surface or
sloped surface portion 68 located adjacent the release member 50.
As the button 38 is displaced downward, the sloped surface portion
68 contacts the release member 50 to move the release member 50 in
the horizontal direction towards the support pin 54. A portion of
the release member 50 is configured to move the locking pin 52. As
the release member 50 moves horizontally, it causes the locking pin
52 to move horizontally within the slot 62 and out of the engaged
or locked position. The force exerted on the locking pin 52 by the
release member 50 overcomes the force of the locking spring 58 and
the locking pin 52 moves towards the support pin 54. As the button
38 continues to be displaced downward, it causes the release member
50 to be displaced further in the horizontal direction until it
pushes the locking pin 52 to a position in which the shape of the
slot 62 allows the locking pin 52 to move relatively downward
within the slot 62, as shown in FIG. 4D. At this point, the locking
pin 52 is released from the locked or engaged position and the body
31 can rotate upward. When the actuation force on the button 38 is
released the button returns to its resting position as a result of
force from a biasing member, such as spring 66. The rotational
force from the biasing spring 46 causes the body 31 to rotate in
the upward direction and the locking pin 52 returns to the
disengaged position within the slot 62, as shown in FIG. 4E. In
this position, the marking device 30 has returned to its disengaged
and non-marking position and remains in this position due to the
rotational force of the biasing spring 46.
[0037] FIG. 5 illustrates another preferred embodiment of a marking
device 70 supportable by the scooter body 20. The marking device 70
includes a body portion 71 supported in a manner that allows it to
rotate with respect to the scooter body 20. The marking device 70
also includes a marking assembly 72 which is supported by the body
portion 71 and has one or more elastic members or springs 73, and a
marking material 40. Preferably, each elastic member 73 is
configured to bend about its longitudinal or default axis. The
longitudinal axis extends lengthwise through the center of the
circular cross-section of the elastic member 73. In the illustrated
arrangement, each elastic member 73 is a coiled spring a coiled
spring which can bend about its longitudinal axis elastically. The
illustrated arrangement includes three elastic members 73, but
other arrangements could include fewer or more elastic members
73.
[0038] Preferably, the elastic members 73 are rigid enough to hold
a marking material 40 against the riding surface with sufficient
force to create substantial markings on the riding surface. The
elastic members 73 are also preferably elastic and conform to the
riding surface so that markings can be generated on uneven or rough
surfaces. The elastic members 73 can be configured to preserve
contact between the riding surface and the marking material 40,
even as the marking material 40 is consumed or changes length
and/or shape. Preferably, the elastic members 73 are springs that
have characteristics (e.g., spring constant, wire diameter, length,
outer diameter) the same or similar to those described above in
connection with the embodiment of FIG. 1-FIG.4. Preferably, the
elastic members 73 have loops or hooks 75 which can be supported by
a portion of the body 71 or marking assembly 72 in order to secure
the elastic members in their intended position. In the illustrated
arrangement, the loops or hooks 75 are supported by the body
portion 71 using members (e.g., bolt, screw, rod or fastener) that
extend through the loops 75. The marking material 40 is preferably
a chalk stick, but it can be any material capable of generating
markings on a riding surface, as discussed in the other
embodiments.
[0039] The marking device 70 includes an actuation portion 78,
which is preferably an integrated portion of the body portion 71.
The actuation portion 78 is preferably located near the foot of a
user as the user rides the scooter. The actuation portion 78 is
conveniently located proximate the scooter body 20 and the rear
wheel 22 so that it is easily accessible to the user. Preferably,
the actuation portion 78 is also shaped and sized to be easily
acted upon by the foot of a user.
[0040] A support or fitting member 74 is configured to be supported
by the scooter body 20. The support member 74 is fixed with respect
to the scooter body 20 and preferably a portion of the support
member 74 slides in between flanges of the scooter deck 26 and is
supported by and within a portion of the scooter body 20. An axle
pin 81 is used to support the rear wheel 22 and extends through a
portion of the support member 74 and scooter body 20.
[0041] The marking device 70 includes an attachment portion 79 that
is preferably an integrated portion of the body portion 71. The
attachment portion includes a stop slot 80 and a recess 84. The
marking device 70 also includes a base member 76 which supports a
biasing member 86. When the marking device 70 is assembled, a
support pin 83 extends through a portion of the support member 74
and scooter body 20. The support pin 83 supports the base member 76
and rotatably supports the body portion 71 by extending through the
recess 84. A stop pin 82 also extends through a portion of the
support member 74 and supports the base member 76. The stop pin 82
also extends through the stop slot 80. Preferably, the body portion
71 can rotate about the longitudinal axis of the support pin 83 and
the biasing member 86 is configured to apply a force on the body
portion 71 so that the body portion 71 is biased in a rotational
direction. Preferably, the biasing member 86 biases the body
portion 71 towards a position in which marking does not occur such
that the body portion 71 can be selectively fixed in the
non-marking position. However, the biasing member 86 can also be
configured to bias the marking device towards a position in which
marking occurs. The biasing member 86 could be a spring or any
device that applies a pressure or force to bias the marking device
30 in a desired direction.
[0042] The base member 76 is fixed with respect to the scooter body
20 and support member 74. As the body portion 71 rotates with
respect to the scooter body 20 and base member 76, the stop slot 80
moves relative to the stop pin 82. The stop slot 80 and the stop
pin 82 can be configured to allow the marking device 70 to be moved
to at least one desired position, as described below. The stop slot
80 and stop pin 82 can be configured to interact with one another
to prevent the body portion 71 of the marking device 70 from moving
beyond its desired positions.
[0043] Preferably, the marking device 70 is configured to have at
least two positions including a marking position and a non-marking
position. Also, the marking device 70 can preferably be or locked
in at least one of those positions. The illustrated arrangement
includes a locking mechanism 90 configured to allow the user to
lock the marking device 70 and body portion 71 in the marking
position and also release the marking device 70 from the marking
position. The locking mechanism 90 is configured so that when a
user applies a downward force on the actuation portion 78 and the
body portion 71 moves into the marking position, the locking
mechanism 90 fixes or locks the body portion in the marking
position. The marking device 70 and body portion 71 remain in the
marking position until a user again applies a downward force on the
actuation portion 78 causing the locking mechanism 90 to release
the body portion 71 so that the body portion 71 returns to a
non-marking position.
[0044] Preferably, the locking mechanism 90 includes an engagement
portion 91 that is supported by the body portion 71 and fixed
relative to the body portion 71. The locking mechanism 90 also
includes a latching portion 92 and a rotation portion 94 which is
supported by the base member 76. Both the latching portion 92 and
the rotation portion 94 are supported in a manner that allows them
to rotate with respect to the base member 76. Preferably, the
latching portion 92 and the rotation portion 94 are coupled so that
when one rotates, the other one also rotates the same amount and in
the same direction. The latching portion 92 and the rotation
portion 94 can be rotatably coupled to the base member 76 using a
bolt or screw, as illustrated, or other suitable fastener.
Alternately, the latching portion 92 and the rotation portion 94
can be integrated in one piece or member. The locking mechanism 90
is configured so that when the body portion 91 rotates downward,
from the non-marking position to the marking position, the
engagement portion 91 engages and interacts with the latching
portion 92 and the rotation portion 94.
[0045] FIG. 6 illustrates various members of the locking mechanism
90 of FIG. 5. The engagement portion 91 includes multiple engaging
members 98. Preferably, the engagement portion 91 includes three
engaging members 98 and one of the engaging members 98 is
configured with a ramp surface or sloped portion 99. The engaging
members 98 extend downward in the direction of the latching portion
92 and rotation portion 94. Preferably, the engaging members 98
have an L-shaped portion 98a, each of which is located at the same
vertical depth or in the same horizontal plane and extend radially
inward, as illustrated. The sloped portion 99 extends further
toward the rotation portion 94 than the L-shaped portions 98a of
the engaging members 98. Preferably, the engaging members 98 are
located in a circular pattern (in the horizontal plane) and 90
degrees from one another, as illustrated. In other embodiments, the
L-shaped portions 98a can be circular protrusions, sloped portions,
hooks, or any other member that protrudes from the engaging members
98. In other embodiments, the engagement portion 91 includes fewer
or more than three engagement members.
[0046] The latching portion 92 is configured to rotate about the
axis R and includes multiple latching members 96. Preferably, the
latching members 96 protrude radially outward from the latching
portion 92 and axis R so that there are spaces between the latching
members 96. The latching portion 92 is configured so that when the
engagement portion 91 moves downward and engages the latching
portion 92, the L-shaped portions 98a of the engaging members 98
can pass through the spaces between the latching members 96.
However, if the latching portion 92 is rotated so that the L-shaped
portions 98a are aligned with recessed surface portion of the
latching members 96, then the L-shaped portions 98a are prevented
from moving vertically past the latching members 96. That is, the
bottom surface portion of the latching members 96 is configured to
selectively engage the L-shaped portions 98a. The bottom surface
portion can also be sloped in a manner that causes the latching
portion 92 to rotate when the L-shaped members 98a interact with
the latching members 96, as is described below. Preferably, the
latching portion 92 includes four latching members 96 which are
located at equal angular intervals from one another around the
perimeter of the latching portion 92. However, in other
arrangements, the latching portion 92 could include fewer or more
than four latching members 96.
[0047] The rotation portion 94 is configured to rotate about the
axis R and is also coupled to the latching portion 92, preferably
via a keyed connection, so that the rotation portion 94 and the
latching portion 92 rotate together as a unit. The rotation portion
94 includes multiple rotation members 97 which extend radially
outward from the axis R. Preferably, each set of two (2) rotation
members 97 corresponds with one of the latching members 96, as is
described below. Thus, preferably there are four (4) sets of two
(2) rotation members 97 per set. The rotation members 97 are sized
and shaped to interact with the sloped portion 99 when the body
portion 71 approaches or is at or near the marking position. As the
engagement portion 91 moves downward, the sloped portion 99
contacts one of the rotation members 97. As the sloped portion 99
moves further downward, interaction between the sloped portion 99
and the ramp surface of one of the rotation members 97 causes the
rotation portion 94 to rotate.
[0048] The locking mechanism 90 is configured to allow a user to
selectively lock the marking device 70 and body portion 71 in the
marking position by applying a downward force (and release) on the
actuation portion 78 and to selectively unlock the marking device
70 from the marking position by applying a subsequent downward
force (and release). When the marking device 70 is in the
non-marking position, the body portion 71 is biased upward and away
from the riding surface by the biasing member 86. To lock the
marking device 70 in the marking position, the user applies a
downward force on the actuation portion 78 which causes the body
portion 71 to rotate downward toward the marking position. As the
body portion 71 rotates downward, the engagement portion 91 moves
downward and the L-shaped portions 98a move downward through the
spaces between the latching members 96 on the latching portion 92.
The engagement portion 91 continues moving downward and the
L-shaped portions 98a move to an area vertically lower than the
bottom surface of the latching members 96. The sloped portion 99
engages the ramped surface of the clockwise-most rotation member 97
(viewed as oriented in FIG. 6) of a matched pair of rotation
members 97 which causes the rotation portion 94 and the latching
portion 92 to rotate in a clockwise direction. As the latching
portion 92 rotates, the latching members 96 move so that some of
the latching members 96 are aligned, at least partially, vertically
and above the L-shaped portions 98a. The user releases the force on
the actuation portion 78 and the biasing member 86 causes the body
portion 71 and engagement portion 91 to move upward. As the
engagement portion 91 moves upward, the L-shaped portions 98a
engage the bottom of the latching members 96 and the engagement
portion 91 and body portion 71 are prevented from moving upward.
Preferably, the latching members 96 are configured to lock the
L-shaped portions 98a in this position and the marking device 70 is
then locked in the marking position. The bottom of the latching
members 96 is also preferably sloped so that the latching portion
92 and rotation portion 94 rotate when the L-shaped portions 98a
engage the bottom of the latching members 96. Preferably, the
bottom of the latching members 96 includes a slot or notch that
locks the L-shaped portions 98a in the locked marking position.
[0049] The locking mechanism 90 also allows a user to release the
marking device 70 and body portion 71 from the marking position by
applying a downward force on the actuation portion 78. When the
marking device 70 is locked in the marking position, the user
applies a downward force on the actuation portion 78 causing the
body portion 71 and engagement portion 91 to move downward. The
L-shaped portions 98a move downward and away from the bottom of the
latching members 96. Preferably, the L-shaped portions 98a move
down and out of the slot or notch in the bottom of the latching
members 96. The sloped portion 99 engages a rotation member 97 and
causes the rotation portion 94 and latching portion 92 to rotate.
As the latching portion 92 rotates, the latching members 96 move so
that the L-shaped portions 98a are no longer vertically aligned
with the latching members 96 in a locking position. Preferably, the
latching members 96 are moved so that the L-shaped portions 98a are
vertically aligned with a sloped portion of the bottom of the
latching members 96, which are configured to contact the L-shaped
portions 98a to cause further rotation of the latching portion 92
upon upward movement of the L-shaped portions 98a, as is described
in greater detail below.
[0050] When the user releases the force on the actuation portion
78, the biasing member 86 causes the body portion 71 and engagement
portion 91 to move upward. As described above, as the engagement
portion 91 moves upward, the L-shaped portions 98a engage a sloped
portion of the bottom of the latching members 96 which is
configured to cause the latching portion 92 to rotate when it is
engaged. The latching portion 92 rotates so that the L-shaped
portions 98a are aligned with the spaces between the latching
members 96. The body portion 71 continues to rotate upward as the
L-shaped portions 98a moves upward and slides along the sloped
bottom portion of the latching members 96 until the L-shaped
portions 98a enter into the spaces between the latching members 96.
The engaging members 98 move upwards and disengage from the
latching members 96, and the body portion 71 returns to the
non-marking position away from the riding surface. The marking
device 70 remains in the non-marking position until acted upon by
the user.
[0051] FIG. 7 illustrates an alternate embodiment of a marking
device or mechanism 100 supported by the deck 26 of the scooter
body 20. The marking device 100 is configured to extend towards the
riding surface and contact the riding surface in order to generate
markings. In other embodiments, the marking device 100 is supported
by portions or members of the scooter or personal mobility vehicle
other than the deck 26. In one embodiment, the marking device 100
is supported at the rear of the scooter by the deck 26, rear axle
or fender. In another embodiment, the marking device is supported
by the head tube 25. In yet another embodiment, the marking device
is supported by the handlebar assembly 24. A bracket or clamp(s)
can be used to couple the marking device 100 to the head tube 25 or
steering assembly 24 or other portion of the scooter. Portions or
members of the marking device 100 can be lengthened or shortened
depending on where the marking device 100 is supported by or
coupled to the scooter and the relative distance to the riding
surface. In addition, flexible or rigid support members can be
utilized to support the marking device relative to the scooter.
[0052] FIG. 8 illustrates the marking device embodiment of FIG. 7.
The marking device 100 includes an attachment member or portion 104
configured to be supported by the deck 26 of a scooter. In some
embodiments, the attachment member 104 is coupled to the deck 26
using bolts, screws or an adhesive, for example. The marking device
100 can also be supported using a bracket fastening mechanism,
fasteners passing through the running board or by a spring loaded
clip mechanism that releasably secures the marking device 100 to
the scooter. Other permanent securing mechanisms include adhesives,
welding, and brazing, fusing, and making the attachment portion 104
an integral part of the scooter. Preferably, the attachment portion
104 is coupled to the deck 26 in a fixed manner so that the
attachment portion does not move (e.g., rotate) with respect to the
deck 26.
[0053] The marking device 100 includes an elastic member 108 that
is supported by the attachment member 104. The marking device also
includes a marking material 110 which is supported by the elastic
member 108. The elastic member 108 is configured to bias the
marking material 110 towards a position in which the marking
material 110 contacts the riding surface. The elastic member 108
can comprise any material or configuration that allows bending and
has elastic characteristics. As illustrated, the elastic member 108
is or includes a coil spring which is configured to bend or flex
about its longitudinal, normal or default axis L. Preferably, the
elastic member 108 is configured with a shape and size so that it
bends when the marking material 110 is in contact with the riding
surface. This configuration assists in preserving contact between
the marking material 110 and the riding surface even when the
riding surface is uneven or bumpy. It also preserves contact
between the riding surface and the marking material 110 even as the
marking material wears away and changes length and/or shape. FIG. 8
illustrates how the elastic member 108 can bend in order to
maintain contact between the marking material 110 and the riding
surface. Preferably, the marking material 110 comprises chalk, but
it can comprise crayon, paint, markers, pencil, or any other
material that would generate markings on a riding surface. In
another embodiment, the elastic member 108 itself comprises a
marking material and is configured so that it can generate markings
on the riding surface.
[0054] As illustrated, the elastic member 108 can have an inner
diameter which is sized to retain a portion of a marking material
110. Preferably, the marking material is shaped and sized so that
it is larger than the inner diameter of the elastic member 108 and
requires force to secure the marking material within the elastic
member 108. The marking material 110 can be shaped like a cylinder,
or substantially or generally like a cylinder, and secured into the
spring elastic member 108 like a screw by twisting the marking
material 110 as it is inserted. Where a spring is used for the
elastic member 108, the length and resiliency of the spring can be
selected to ensure that the correct contact and force is made
between the marking material 110 and the riding surface. In some
embodiments, multiple elastic members and/or multiple marking
materials can be configured on a single marking device in order to
generate markings with multiple lines or colors.
[0055] In one embodiment, the elastic member 108 is partially or
completely replaced by a torsion spring. In such an embodiment, the
torsion spring has a first end and a second end. The first end is
supported by a portion of the scooter and the second end directly
or indirectly supports a marking material. The spring is configured
so that its first end is fixed relative to the scooter, and its
second end is biased towards a position in which the marking
material is in contact with the riding surface. Preferably, the
torsion spring provides a rotational force that places the marking
material in contact with the riding surface and preserves that
contact even if the riding surface is uneven or as the marking
material is consumed. Other tensioning mechanisms may be
substituted for the spring, including, for example, a torsion
spring, dampening mechanism, or telescoping mechanism. In addition,
or in the alternative, the attachment portion 104 can be configured
to allow the position or orientation (e.g., rotational position) of
the marking member and/or elastic member 108 to be adjusted, such
as by manual adjustment.
[0056] In another embodiment, one or more marking members are
supported by a rod or axle. Preferably the marking members are
chalk holders that are mounted to the axle or rod. The axle can be
supported by the scooter so that its axis is generally parallel to
the riding surface when the scooter is in an upright position on
the riding surface. A torsion spring is supported by the scooter
and provides a rotational force to the axle or rod which biases the
marking members towards a position in which they contact the riding
surface. In this embodiment, the marking members are biased towards
a marking position by the spring, via the axle. In addition, or in
the alternative, the rod, axle or other support structure can be
configured to allow the position or orientation (e.g., rotational
position) of the marking member and/or elastic member 108 to be
adjusted, such as by manual adjustment.
[0057] Although the invention presented herein has been disclosed
in the context of certain preferred embodiments and examples, it
will be understood by those skilled in the art that the invention
extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other
alternative embodiments and/or uses of the invention and obvious
modifications and equivalents thereof. Thus, it is intended that
the scope of the invention herein disclosed should not be limited
by the particular embodiments described above, but should be
determined only by a fair reading of the claims that follow.
* * * * *