U.S. patent application number 14/915172 was filed with the patent office on 2016-07-21 for apparatus for board sports.
The applicant listed for this patent is BAJABOARD INTERNATIONAL PTY LTD. Invention is credited to James Michael Murphy.
Application Number | 20160206949 14/915172 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 52585290 |
Filed Date | 2016-07-21 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160206949 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Murphy; James Michael |
July 21, 2016 |
APPARATUS FOR BOARD SPORTS
Abstract
A wheeled apparatus for board sports is provided. The wheeled
apparatus includes a board, a plurality of wheels supported by a
plurality of steering knuckles, and at least one linkage between
the board and the steering knuckles. The at least one linkage
enables a camber and/or a caster and/or a toe angle of the wheels
to be adjusted by pivoting the board.
Inventors: |
Murphy; James Michael; (Mont
Albert North, AU) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
BAJABOARD INTERNATIONAL PTY LTD |
Macleod |
|
AU |
|
|
Family ID: |
52585290 |
Appl. No.: |
14/915172 |
Filed: |
August 27, 2014 |
PCT Filed: |
August 27, 2014 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/AU2014/000840 |
371 Date: |
February 26, 2016 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63C 17/0046 20130101;
A63C 17/12 20130101; A63C 17/0093 20130101; A63C 2203/24 20130101;
B62D 51/02 20130101; A63C 17/262 20130101; A63C 17/015 20130101;
A63C 17/013 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A63C 17/01 20060101
A63C017/01; A63C 17/00 20060101 A63C017/00; A63C 17/12 20060101
A63C017/12 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Aug 27, 2013 |
AU |
2013903244 |
Claims
1-17. (canceled)
18. A wheeled apparatus for board sports comprising: a board; a
plurality of wheels supported by a plurality of steering knuckles;
and at least one linkage between the board and the steering
knuckles to enable a camber and/or a caster and/or a toe angle of
the wheels to be adjusted by pivoting the board, wherein the at
least one linkage comprises an electronic linkage in the form of a
sensor for detecting pivoting of the board, the sensor in
communication with an actuator coupled to one of the steering
knuckles.
19. The wheeled apparatus of claim 18, wherein the wheeled
apparatus comprises four wheels.
20. The wheeled apparatus of claim 18, wherein the wheeled
apparatus further comprises a chassis to which the board is
pivotally coupled.
21. The wheeled apparatus of claim 20, wherein the board pivots
laterally about the chassis.
22. The wheeled apparatus of claim 20, wherein the wheeled
apparatus comprises one or more suspension systems coupled to the
chassis and to the steering knuckles.
23. The wheeled apparatus of claim 21, wherein the one or more
suspension systems include a left suspension system and a right
suspension system, and an anti-roll bar is coupled between the left
suspension system and the right suspension system to mitigate a
rolling of the chassis when the board is pivoted.
24. The wheeled apparatus of claim 22, wherein the at least one
linkage pivots the respective steering knuckle about a pivot axis
defined by one or more of the suspension systems.
25. The wheeled apparatus of claim 20, wherein the wheeled
apparatus further comprises one or more springs coupled to the
board and the chassis to resist the pivoting of the board and to
return the board to a neutral position.
26. The wheeled apparatus of claim 18, wherein the wheeled
apparatus comprises one or more motors to drive one or more of the
plurality of wheels.
27. The wheeled apparatus of claim 26, wherein the wheeled
apparatus comprises one or more controllers in communication with
the one or more motors to enable a user to control the speed and/or
direction of the one or more motors.
28. The wheeled apparatus of claim 26, wherein the wheeled
apparatus comprises a carriage fixed to the board to house one or
more batteries and/or control systems to power and/or control the
one or more motors.
29. The wheeled apparatus of claim 27, wherein the one or more
controllers are configured to detect the power usage of each motor,
and to independently regulate power delivery to each motor to
optimize power use efficiency.
30. The wheeled apparatus of claim 27, wherein the one or more
controllers are configured to detect the speed of each wheel and to
independently regulate wheel speeds to control handling
characteristics of the wheeled apparatus.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to apparatus for board sports
and in particular to wheeled apparatus for off-road board
sports.
BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION
[0002] Board sports, such as skateboarding, long boarding and
mountain boarding, are pursued by people as a popular past time, as
an action sport or even as an extreme sport. Wheeled apparatus used
for board sports typically comprise a board coupled to wheels via
trucks. Generally these apparatus have four wheels and two trucks,
one truck for the front wheels and one truck for the back wheels.
The trucks typically comprise a base plate attached to the board
and a hanger pivotally coupled to the base plate to support the
wheels. The base plate is coupled to the hanger at an angle so that
the hanger will turn toward the side to which the board is
pivoted.
[0003] The base plate is typically coupled to the hanger via a king
pin and bushings. The kingpin can be adjusted to provide more or
less resistance to turning.
[0004] The wheels are coupled via bearings to the hanger and are
maintained at a fixed angle relative to the hanger. The wheels on
skateboards and long boards, for example, are typically made of
solid polyurethane. One problem with such boards is that they can
not be used effectively off-road.
[0005] One attempted solution to this problem is mountain boards.
Mountain boards typically have larger, spoked wheels with tyres to
enable them to more easily travel over rough terrain. However, like
skateboards and long boards mountain boards typically are limited
to being ridden down hill or propelled by the user.
[0006] International patent publication WO 2006/053397 teaches an
apparatus that addresses these limitations to an extent by
providing a board with motorised track assemblies to enable the
board to be propelled uphill. The track assemblies also assist the
board to traverse soft ground and snow and reduce bogging. The
board is connected to the track assemblies via a truck, similar to
that of a skateboard, long board or mountain board. In some
embodiments, the board is connected to the truck via a spring to
absorb impact on rough ground. However, the use of tracks can
negatively affect the handling of the board and limit the control
the user has over the board.
[0007] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not,
and should not be taken as, an acknowledgement or any form of
suggestion that the prior art forms part of the common general
knowledge.
OBJECT OF THE INVENTION
[0008] It is a preferred object of the invention to provide an
apparatus for board sports which addresses or at least ameliorates
one or more of the aforementioned problems of the prior art and/or
provides a useful commercial alternative.
[0009] Another preferred object of the invention is to provide an
apparatus for board sports with improved and adjustable steering
and handling, in particular during off-road use.
[0010] Skilled addressees will appreciate that the apparatus may
also be used for applications other than board sports. For example,
the apparatus may be used as an all terrain mobility vehicle for
personal or even military purposes.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] Generally, embodiments of the present invention relate to
apparatus for board sports and in particular to wheeled apparatus
for off-road board sports.
[0012] According to one aspect, but not necessarily the broadest
aspect, the present invention resides in a wheeled apparatus for
board sports comprising:
[0013] a board;
[0014] a plurality of wheels supported by a plurality of steering
knuckles; and
[0015] at least one linkage between the board and the steering
knuckles to enable a camber and/or a caster and/or a toe angle of
the wheels to be adjusted by pivoting the board
[0016] Suitably, the at least one linkage comprises a mechanical
linkage in the form of an arm pivotally coupled to one of the
steering knuckles and the board.
[0017] Alternatively, the at least one linkage comprises an
electronic linkage in the form of a sensor for detecting pivoting
of the board, the sensor in communication with an actuator coupled
to one of the steering knuckles.
[0018] Preferably, the wheeled apparatus comprises four wheels.
[0019] Preferably, the wheeled apparatus further comprises a
chassis to which the board is pivotally coupled.
[0020] Preferably, the board pivots laterally about the
chassis.
[0021] Preferably, the wheeled apparatus comprises one or more
suspension systems coupled to the chassis and to the steering
knuckles.
[0022] Preferably, the one or more suspension systems include a
left suspension system and a right suspension system, and an
anti-roll bar is coupled between the left suspension system and the
right suspension system to mitigate a rolling of the chassis when
the board is pivoted.
[0023] Preferably, the at least one linkage pivots the respective
steering knuckle about a pivot axis defined by one or more of the
suspension systems.
[0024] Preferably, the wheeled apparatus further comprises one or
more springs coupled to the board and the chassis to resist the
pivoting of the board and to return the board to a neutral
position.
[0025] Suitably, the wheeled apparatus comprises one or more
steering links coupled between the board and the steering knuckles
to enable the wheels to be steered by pivoting the board.
[0026] Suitably, the at least one linkage enables the wheels to be
steered, and a camber and/or a caster and/or a toe angle of the
wheels to be adjusted, by pivoting the board.
[0027] Preferably, each steering knuckle is coupled to the board
with a respective steering link and/or linkage to provide
independent steering, and/or camber and/or caster and/or toe angle
adjustment, of each wheel by pivoting the board.
[0028] Preferably, the wheeled apparatus comprises one or more
motors to drive one or more of the plurality of wheels.
[0029] Preferably, the wheeled apparatus comprises a controller in
communication with the one or more motors to enable a user to
control the speed and direction of the one or more motors.
[0030] Preferably, the wheeled apparatus comprises a carriage fixed
to the board, to house one or more batteries and/or control systems
to power and/or control the motors.
[0031] According to another aspect, but not necessarily the
broadest aspect, the present invention resides in a method of
constructing a wheeled apparatus for board sports, the apparatus
comprising a board and a plurality of wheels supported by a
plurality of steering knuckles, the method comprising:
[0032] coupling at least one linkage between the board and the
steering knuckles to enable a camber, a caster and/or a toe angle
of the wheels to be adjusted by pivoting the board.
[0033] Further features and/or aspects of the present invention
will become apparent from the following detailed description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0034] In order that the invention may be readily understood and
put into practical effect, reference will now be made to preferred
embodiments of the present invention with reference to the
accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numbers refer to
identical elements. The drawings are provided by way of example
only, wherein:
[0035] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a chassis of a wheeled
apparatus for board sports, according to one embodiment of the
present invention;
[0036] FIG. 2 is a side sectional view of the wheeled apparatus of
FIG. 1;
[0037] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a wheeled apparatus
comprising the chassis of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment of
the present invention;
[0038] FIG. 4 is an underside view of the wheeled apparatus shown
in FIG. 3;
[0039] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the wheeled apparatus
shown in FIG. 3;
[0040] FIG. 6 is a top view of a linkage arm assembly of the
wheeled apparatus shown in FIG. 3;
[0041] FIG. 7 is a top view of a suspension arm assembly of the
wheeled apparatus shown in FIG. 3;
[0042] FIG. 8 is a top view of a steering knuckle of the wheeled
apparatus shown in FIG. 3;
[0043] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a chassis of a wheeled
apparatus for board sports, according to another embodiment of the
present invention;
[0044] FIG. 10 is a side view of the wheeled apparatus of FIG.
9;
[0045] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a body of a support
structure of the chassis shown in FIG. 9
[0046] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a wheeled apparatus
comprising the chassis of FIG. 9, according to one embodiment of
the present invention;
[0047] FIG. 13 is an underside view of the wheeled apparatus shown
in FIG. 12;
[0048] FIG. 14 is a top view of the wheeled apparatus shown in FIG.
12;
[0049] FIG. 15 is a front view of the wheeled apparatus shown in
FIG. 12;
[0050] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a steering knuckle of the
wheeled apparatus shown in FIG. 12;
[0051] FIG. 17 is a top view of a steering arm assembly of the
wheeled apparatus shown in FIG. 12;
[0052] FIG. 18 is a top view of a drive shaft of the wheeled
apparatus shown in FIG. 12;
[0053] FIG. 19 is a top view of a suspension arm assembly of the
wheeled apparatus shown in FIG. 12;
[0054] FIG. 20 is a top view of a spring and shock absorber of the
wheeled apparatus shown in FIG. 12; and
[0055] FIG. 21 is a flow diagram of a method of constructing a
wheeled apparatus for board sports, according to one aspect of the
present invention.
[0056] Skilled addressees will appreciate that elements in the
drawings are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not
necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the relative
dimensions of some of the elements in the drawings may be distorted
to help improve understanding of embodiments of the present
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0057] Generally, embodiments of the present invention relate to
apparatus for board sports and in particular to wheeled apparatus
for off-road board sports. Skilled addressees will appreciate that
the apparatus may also be used for general mobility and
transportation purposes.
[0058] The wheeled apparatus comprises a board to support a rider
and a plurality of wheels supported by a plurality of steering
knuckles. At least one linkage is coupled between the board and the
steering knuckles to enable a camber and/or a caster and/or a toe
angle of the wheels to be adjusted by the rider pivoting the board.
Adjustments of the camber and/or the caster and/or the toe angle of
the wheels can change the behaviour of the apparatus during
cornering. For example, such adjustments can facilitate drift of
the apparatus as it corners.
[0059] In preferred embodiments, the steering knuckles and hence
the wheels are supported by a chassis, for example, via a
suspension system. The board, and/or a board assembly comprising
the board, is pivotally coupled to the chassis and pivots relative
to the chassis. In some embodiments the at least one linkage
comprises a mechanical linkage in the form of an arm that is
pivotally coupled to one of the steering knuckles and pivotally
coupled the board. However, in alternative embodiments, the at
least one linkage comprises an electronic linkage in the form of a
sensor for detecting pivoting of the board. The sensor is in
communication with one or more actuators coupled to one or more of
the steering knuckles. These arrangements will be described in
further detail with reference to the embodiments shown in the
drawings.
[0060] FIGS. 1 and 2 show a perspective view and a side sectional
view respectively of a chassis 110 of a wheeled apparatus 100 for
board sports, according to one embodiment of the present invention.
For the sake of clarity, FIGS. 1 and 2 show the apparatus 100 with
various components of the apparatus removed, such the wheels,
suspension and steering systems. However, the components omitted
from FIGS. 1 and 2 will be discussed hereinafter with reference to
other drawings.
[0061] With reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the chassis 110 comprises a
support frame 120 coupled and/or fixed at each end of an elongate
bar 115. A board 105 to support a rider is pivotally coupled to the
chassis 110. Each support frame 120 comprises a linkage plate 125,
two parallel side plates 130, a shock tower 135 and a first bracket
140. The linkage plate 125 and the first bracket 140 are coupled to
the elongate bar 115. The linkage plate 125 and the shock tower 135
are coupled to side plates 130.
[0062] The linkage plate 125 comprises four connecting points 127
having apertures 129 to couple suspension arm assemblies and
linkages to the linkage plate 125.
[0063] The side plates 130 each support a mechanism for driving the
wheeled apparatus 100. The mechanism comprises a motor 160 coupled
to a first sprocket 165. The first sprocket is coupled to a second
sprocket 170 via a drive chain 172. The second sprocket 170 is
larger than the first sprocket 165 to gear down the speed of the
motor for transmission to the wheels. The second sprocket 170 is
coupled to a connector 175 to which a drive shaft is coupled for
connection to a wheel. Each side plate 130 further comprises a
connection bracket 132 having an aperture 134 for connecting to a
suspension arm assembly, as will be described in further detail
herein.
[0064] The shock tower 135 of each support frame 120 extends
perpendicularly to the side plates 130 and comprises pins 137 for
coupling spring and shock absorbers to the shock tower 135. Three
sets of apertures 139 are provided at either side of the shock
tower 135 to enable the position of the pins 137, and therefore the
connection point and angle of the spring and shoe k absorbers, to
be adjusted. In some embodiments, the number of sets of apertures
139 may be greater than or less than three.
[0065] A second bracket 145 is pivotally coupled to the first
bracket 140 and is fixed to the underside of the board 105 to
enable the board to pivot relative to the chassis 110 about a pivot
axis. Springs 150 are coupled to the first bracket 140 and the
second bracket 145 on either side of the pivot point to resist the
pivoting of the board 105 and to return the board 105 to a neutral
position. For example, where the board pivots laterally, a neutral
position is when the board 105 is laterally level relative to the
chassis 110.
[0066] FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of the wheeled apparatus 100
for board sports shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, with the wheels,
suspension and steering systems attached and FIG. 4 shows an
underside view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 3. Further features
of the apparatus 100 will now be described with reference to FIGS.
3 and 4.
[0067] The wheeled apparatus 100 comprises four wheels 260
supported by four steering knuckles 210. The four steering knuckles
210 are coupled to the chassis 110 via suspension systems 200. The
suspension systems 200 comprise suspension arm assemblies 220,
linkage arm assemblies 230, steering links 240 and spring and shock
absorbers 250.
[0068] Each linkage arm assembly 230 comprises a linkage arm 232
pivotally coupled between the board 105 and each steering knuckle
210 to enable a camber and/or a caster and/or a toe angle of the
wheels 260 to be adjusted independently by pivoting the board 105.
The linkage arms 232 are pivotally coupled to the board via ball
joints to the coupling points 107. The linkage arms 232 are also
pivotally coupled to the upper connection points 127 of the linkage
plates 125 of the chassis 110 by a ball joint.
[0069] Each steering link 240 is pivotally coupled at one end to a
tail 147 of the second bracket 145 and pivotally coupled at the
other end to a respective steering knuckle 210 to enable the wheels
260 to be steered by pivoting the board 105. Each wheel 260 is
coupled to a respective steering knuckle 210 with a respective
steering link 240 for independent steering of each wheel 260.
[0070] Each of the suspension arm assemblies 220 comprises two arms
222, 223 and is coupled at a body 224 of the arms to one of the
steering knuckles 210. One of the arms 222 is coupled to one of the
lower connection points 127 of one of the linkage plates 125 and
another of the arms 223 is coupled to the connection bracket 132 on
one of the side plates 130. The spring and shock absorbers 250 are
rotatably coupled to the body 224 of a respective suspension arm
assembly 220 via a fastener at coupling point 229 and rotatably
coupled to a respective shock tower 135 via the pins 137. Hence, in
the preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 3, each wheel is provided
with independent suspension.
[0071] Drive shafts 180 are coupled between the connectors 175 and
the wheels 260 via constant velocity joints 185 to enable the motor
160 to drive the wheels.
[0072] The wheels 260 have spokes 262 for structural support and
have tyres 264 to provide grip on the ground. The spokes 262 can
also enable the wheel to be lighter than a solid wheel and the
tyres can absorb bumps to provide a smoother ride. The board 105 is
shaped to enable a rider to stand, kneel, sit and/or lie on the
board. For example, the board 105 can comprise a waist between two
wider regions for accommodating the rider's feet. The board 105 can
be concave to accommodate the rider in a prone position and can
comprise raised side edges to assist in retaining the rider on the
board when pivoting the board and cornering.
[0073] FIG. 5 shows a cross-sectional view of one end of the
wheeled apparatus 100 shown in FIG. 3. FIG. 5 shows positions of
the linkage arms 232 and the steering links 240 with the board 105
pivoted to a right hand side of the neutral position. The pivoting
of the board 105 toward the right hand side of the apparatus 100
moves the tail 147 of the second bracket 145 toward the left hand
side of the apparatus 100. The steering links 240, which are
coupled to the tail 147 of the second bracket 145, pull or push the
steering knuckles 210, thus turning the wheels 260 and causing the
apparatus 100 to turn toward the right hand side to which the board
105 is pivoted.
[0074] Pivoting the board 105 toward the right hand side of the
apparatus 100 also moves the coupling points 107. The coupling
point 107 on the right hand side moves in a downward direction and
the coupling point 107 on the left hand side moves in an upward
direction. The linkage arms 232, which are coupled to the coupling
points 107 and the steering knuckles 210, therefore pull the
steering knuckle 210 on the right hand side and push the steering
knuckle 210 on the left hand side to change the camber and/or the
castor and/or the toe angle of the wheels 260. This tilts the
wheels further towards the centre of the apparatus 100 thereby
reducing the contact area of the tyres with the ground and
encouraging drift. There is also a corresponding effect on the
camber and/or the castor and/or the toe angle of the wheels 260 at
the other end of the apparatus 100. It will be appreciated that
pivoting the board 105 in the opposite direction will have the
opposite effects.
[0075] FIG. 6 shows a top view of the linkage arm assembly 230 of
the wheeled apparatus 100 shown in FIG. 3. The linkage arm assembly
230 comprises a first arm or rod 232 and a second arm or rod 233
coupled to a corner bracket 234. The first arm 232 comprises an
aperture 236 for pivotally coupling the first arm 232 via a ball
joint to the coupling point 107 of the board 105. A pin 235 is
pivotally coupled to the corner bracket 234 and the pin comprises
an aperture 237 for pivotally coupling the linkage arm assembly 230
to the steering knuckle 210. The second arm 233 comprises an
aperture 238 for pivotally coupling the second arm 233 via a ball
joint to the linkage plate 125 of the support frame 120 of the
chassis 110.
[0076] FIG. 7 shows a top view of the suspension arm assembly 220
of the wheeled apparatus 100 shown in FIG. 3. The suspension arm
assembly comprises two arms 222, 223 coupled to a body 224. The
body 224 comprises a recess and aperture 227 to which the steering
knuckle 210 is pivotally mounted. Body 224 also comprises an
aperture 229 to receive a fastener to couple the spring and shock
absorber 250 to the suspension arm assembly 220. The first arm 222
comprises an aperture 226 for coupling the first arm 222 to the
linkage plate 125 via a ball joint. The second arm 223 comprises an
aperture 228 for coupling the second arm 223 to the connection
bracket 132 attached to the side plate 130.
[0077] FIG. 8 is a top view of the steering knuckle 210 of the
wheeled apparatus 100 shown in FIG. 3. The steering knuckle 210
comprises a first connection point 212, a second connection point
214, a third connection point 216 and an aperture 218. The first
connection point 212 is for pivotally coupling the steering knuckle
210 to the pin 235 of the linkage arm assembly 230. The second
connection point 214 is for pivotally coupling the steering knuckle
210 to the steering link 240. The third connection point 216 is for
pivotally coupling the steering knuckle 210 to the body 224 of the
suspension arm assembly 220. Aperture 218 accommodates the CV joint
185 for the wheel 260. The steering knuckles 210 on opposite sides
or ends of the apparatus 300 can be mirror images of one another.
For example, the structure of the steering knuckle 210 shown in
FIG. 8 may be for one side of the apparatus. A steering knuckle 210
for an opposite side of the apparatus 100 comprises the same
structure mirrored along an axis between connection points 212 and
216.
[0078] Preferred embodiments of the present invention have been
described with reference to FIGS. 1-8. However, other embodiments
are envisaged that fall within the scope of the present invention.
The invention will be described more generally hereinafter with
specific examples where necessary.
[0079] Generally, embodiments of the wheeled apparatus 100 can have
two or more wheels 260. In one embodiment, the wheeled apparatus
100 has one wheel on either side of the board 105. In this
embodiment, a linkage is provided to enable a castor and/or camber
and/or or toe angle of the wheels 260 to be adjusted by pivoting
the board 105. In another embodiment, the apparatus 100 comprises
two wheels at one end and a single wheel at the other end. The end
with two wheels can be configured as shown at one end of the
embodiment shown in FIG. 3.
[0080] In some embodiments the board 105 pivots laterally to adjust
the castor and/or camber and/or toe angle and/or the steering of
the wheels. In some embodiments, the board 105 is pivoted
longitudinally. In some embodiments, the board 105 can also be
pivoted longitudinally to control the speed and/or direction of the
one or more motors 160 where the apparatus 100 is motorised.
[0081] While the apparatus 100 comprises a chassis 110 in the
preferred embodiments described herein, it is envisaged that
embodiments of the apparatus 100 can be implemented without a
chassis. In such embodiments, support frames 120 can be coupled to
the board 105 by first bracket 140.
[0082] It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that
the support frame 120 can be implemented in a variety of ways. For
example, according to some embodiments, instead of two side plates
130 connected by the linkage plate 125 and the sprockets mounted to
the inner faces of the side plates, a centrally located single
plate can be provided with the sprockets mounted on either side.
This alternative enables the linkage plate 125 to be replaced by a
smaller linkage plate, such as an "X" shaped plate with effectively
just four connecting points 127. In another embodiment, it is
envisaged that the first bracket 140 and the second bracket 145 can
be redesigned into a single bracket.
[0083] Embodiments of the wheeled apparatus 100 can comprise one or
more motors 160 to drive one or more of the plurality of wheels
260. For example, a single motor can be configured to drive all of
the wheels, a separate motor can drive each wheel, or a separate
motor can drive each set of wheels, e.g. each pair of wheels. One
or more brushless DC (BLDC) electric motors can be used, but other
types of motor can also be used. For example, in some embodiments a
hub motor can be used within one or more of the wheels 260 with
each such wheel coupled to the chassis 110 by the suspension arm
assemblies 220.
[0084] Whilst FIG. 2 shows a drive chain 172 coupling the first and
second sprockets 165, 170, it will be appreciated that alternative
components can be used for the transmission of power from the
motor(s) 160 to the wheels 260, such as belts, further gearing
and/or shaft drive assemblies. In another embodiment, the motors
160 can directly drive the wheels 260, removing the need for any
sprockets, gears or belts. In this embodiment, suitably sized
motors 160 replace the second sprockets 170, the connectors 175 are
attached directly to the motors 160, and the drive shafts 180 are
coupled between the connectors 175 and the wheels 260 via constant
velocity joints 185 to enable to motors 160 to directly drive the
wheels 260.
[0085] The wheeled apparatus 100 can comprise a controller in
communication with the one or more motors 160 to enable a user to
control the speed and direction of the one or more motors. In some
embodiments, the controller is an electronic controller connected
to the board, which can be implemented with a programmable circuit
board. In some embodiments, the controlled is a mechanical
controller. In some embodiments, the controller can be designed to
be operated by the user via hand and/or foot. The controller' can
also be a remote controller operating wirelessly.
[0086] Although not shown in the drawings, some embodiments of the
wheeled apparatus 100 comprise an undercarriage or casing affixed
to the chassis 110 and/or the board 105 to hold and protect various
components of the apparatus 100, such as batteries, controller
units, a wireless receiver and/or cabling, from water, dust, debris
and from impacts with obstacles, such as rocks.
[0087] FIGS. 9 and 10 show a perspective view and a side view
respectively of a chassis 310 of a wheeled apparatus 300 for board
sports, according to another embodiment of the present invention.
The chassis 310 comprises two support frames 320. The support
frames 320 are pivotally coupled at each end of a carriage 315. A
board 305 to support a rider is pivotally coupled to the chassis
310, for example, via the carriage 315.
[0088] Each support frame 320 comprises a body 330 onto which other
components of the support frame 320 are mounted. For example, the
body 330 can be a unitary structure (as shown in FIG. 11). An inner
end of the body 330 is pivotally coupled to the carriage 315 via a
first bracket 340, In preferred embodiments, the carriage 315 is
elongate and load bearing. For example, the carriage provides a
rigid linkage between the two support frames 320. The carriage 315
is fixed to the underside of the board 305. An outer end of the
body 330 is pivotally coupled to the board 305 via a second bracket
345. The second bracket 345 is fixed to the underside of the board
305. The board 305 the carriage 315 and the second bracket 345 can
be considered to form a board assembly which pivots relative to the
chassis 310 about a pivot axis.
[0089] The second bracket 345 extends along the body 330 past the
inner end of the body 330. Springs 350 are coupled between the
first bracket 340 and the second bracket 345 on either side of the
pivot axis to resist the pivoting of the board 305 and to return
the board 305 to a neutral position.
[0090] A shock tower 335 is coupled to an upright 331 of the body
330. The upright 331 extends through an aperture 347 in the second
bracket 345 and the board 305. In one embodiment, the lateral width
of the aperture 347 limits the range of lateral movement of the
board 305 relative to the upright 331 and therefore limits the
angle to which the board 305 can pivot relative to the chassis 310.
The shock tower 335 comprises pins 337 for coupling spring and
shock absorbers to the shock tower 335.
[0091] Connecting points are provided to couple a suspension system
to the body 330. In the embodiment shown, two of the connecting
points 327 are located at a base of the body 330 on each side of
the body 330 with one of the two connecting points 327 located
toward the outer end of the body 330 and the other located toward
the inner end of the body 330. The two connecting points 327 can be
located on linkage plates 325 that are fixed to the body 330 or
integral with the body 330. A further connecting point 328 on
either side of the body 330 is located part way up the body 330 and
toward the inner end of the body 330. The further connecting point
328 can be located on a connection bracket 332 that is fixed to the
body.
[0092] Coupling points 307 are provided on either side of the
second bracket 345 to couple a steering system to the board 305.
For example, in the embodiment shown, two coupling points 307 are
provided on either side of the second bracket 345.
[0093] The body 330 supports a mechanism for driving the wheeled
apparatus 300. The mechanism comprises a motor 360 coupled to a
first sprocket 365 on either side of the body 330. The first
sprocket 365 is coupled to a second sprocket 370 via a drive belt
372. The second sprocket 370 is larger than the first sprocket 365
to gear down the speed of the motor 360 for transmission to a wheel
on the respective side of the body 330. The second sprocket 370 is
coupled to a connector 375 to which a drive shaft 380 is coupled
for connection to the wheel. The carriage 315 can house a power
supply, for example, one or more batteries, to power the motors
360. The carriage 315 can also house one or more control systems to
control the motors. In an alternative embodiment, a carriage
housing one or more batteries and/or control systems can be fixed
to an upper side of the board.
[0094] In another embodiment, the motors 360 can directly drive the
wheels 460, removing the need for any sprockets, gears or belts.
This can be achieved by locating suitably sized motors 360 in place
of the second sprockets 370. The connectors 375 would then be
attached directly to the motors 360, and the drive shafts 372 would
be coupled between the connectors 375 and the wheels 460 via
constant velocity joints to enable to motors 360 to directly drive
the wheels 460.
[0095] Bindings 312 are provided on the board 305 to secure the
feet of the rider. In the embodiment shown, the bindings 312 are
semi-open. However the bindings can be fully closed bindings or any
other suitable bindings and in one embodiment, the board 305 has no
bindings.
[0096] FIG. 11 a body 330 of the wheeled apparatus 300 that is a
unitary structure according to one embodiment. Two connecting
points 327 in the form of longitudinally oriented apertures are
located on linkage plates 32 5 at the base of the body 330 that
extend laterally on each side of the body 330. The two apertures
each receive a pin to couple respective arms of a suspension arm
assembly.
[0097] Two bracket mounting holes 333 are provided to mount the
connection bracket 332 to the body 330. Three shock tower mounting
holes are provided in the upright 331 of the body 330 to mount the
shock tower to the body 330. Three motor stands 362 extend
laterally from either side of the body 330 at the inner end of the
body 330 for mounting the motors 360. A hole 334 is located toward
the outer end of the body 330 to receive an anti-roll bar.
[0098] A bracket 340 is mounted to the body 330 or formed
integrally with the body 330, A mount point 342 is provided on the
bracket 340 for the spring 350.
[0099] FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of the wheeled apparatus
300 for board sports shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, with the wheels,
suspension and steering systems attached and FIG. 13 shows an
underside view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 12. Further features
of the apparatus 300 will now be described with reference to FIG.
12 and FIG. 13.
[0100] The wheeled apparatus 300 comprises four wheels 460
supported by four steering knuckles 410. The four steering knuckles
410 are coupled to the chassis 310 via suspension systems 400. The
suspension systems 400 comprise suspension arm assemblies 420,
steering or linkage arm assemblies 430, spring and shock absorbers
450 and further suspension arms 440. Each of the suspension arm
assemblies 420 comprises two arms 422, 423 and is coupled at a body
424 of the arms to one of the steering knuckles 410. The arms are
each coupled to one of the two connection points 327' at the base
of the body 330.
[0101] The spring and shock absorbers 450 are rotatably coupled to
the body 424 of a respective suspension arm assembly 420 via a
fastener at coupling point 429 and rotatably coupled to a
respective shock tower 335 via the pins 337.
[0102] Each further suspension arm 440 is pivotally coupled at one
end to a respective further connecting point 328 and pivotally
coupled at the other end to a respective steering knuckle 410.
Hence, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 12, each wheel is provided
with an independent suspension system 400.
[0103] The four steering knuckles 410 are coupled to the board 305
via the steering or linkage arm assemblies 430. Each wheel 460 has
its own steering arm assembly 430 to enable independent steering of
each wheel, and for example, independent adjustment of camber,
caster and/or toe angle of each wheel 460.
[0104] Each steering arm assembly 430 comprises two arms 432, 433
and is coupled at a body 434 of the arms to one of the steering
knuckles 410. The arms are each coupled to one of the two coupling
points 307 on the second bracket 345 to enable a camber and/or a
caster and/or a toe angle of the wheels 460 to be adjusted
independently by pivoting the board 305. In this embodiment, the
steering arm assemblies 430 also enable the wheels 460 to be
steered by pivoting the board 305.
[0105] Drive shafts 380 are coupled between the connectors 375 and
the wheels 460 via constant velocity joints 385 to enable the motor
360 to drive the wheels 460.
[0106] The board 305 is shaped to enable a rider to stand, kneel,
sit and/or lie on the board. For example, the board 305 is concave
to accommodate the rider in a prone position and comprises raised
side edges to assist in retaining the rider on the board when
pivoting the board and cornering.
[0107] FIGS. 14 and 15 show a top view and a front view
respectively of the wheeled apparatus 300 for board sports shown in
FIG. 12. In FIGS. 14 and 15 the board 305 is pivoted to a left hand
side of the neutral position. The board 305 has pivoted such that
the upright 331 is against the edge of the aperture 347 and limits
the board 305 from pivoting further relative to the chassis
310.
[0108] Rolling of the chassis 310 when the board 305 is pivoted can
reduce the effectiveness of the steering arm assembly 430. An
anti-roll bar 480 is provided to mitigate a compression or
extension of the spring and shock absorbers 450 when the board 305
is pivoted and hence mitigate a rolling of the chassis 310 when the
board 305 is pivoted. The anti-roll bar 480 is coupled between the
suspension arm assembly 420 on the left side of the body 330 and
the suspension arm assembly 420 on the right side of the body 330.
The anti-roll bar 480 extends through the hole 334 in the body 330
(see FIG. 11). The anti-roll bar 480 is coupled to each suspension
arm assembly 420 via a connecting rod 482. In the embodiment shown,
the connecting rod 482 comprises a thread link 484 for adjusting
the length of the connecting rod 482 and hence adjusting the effect
of the anti-roll bar 480.
[0109] Pivoting the board 305 toward the left hand side of the
apparatus 300 moves the coupling points 307 on the left hand side
of the second bracket 345 toward the left and downward and moves
the coupling points 307 on the right hand side of the second
bracket 345 toward the left and upward. The steering arm assemblies
430, which are coupled to the coupling points 307 and the steering
knuckles 410, therefore pull the steering knuckle 410 on the right
hand side and push the steering knuckle 410 on the left hand side
which changes the camber and/or the castor and/or the toe angle of
the wheels 460. The suspension arm assemblies 420 and the further
suspension arms 440 provide a pivot axis around which the steering
knuckles 410 rotate. The pivot axis is shown in more detail in FIG.
16.
[0110] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the steering knuckle 410 of
the wheeled apparatus 300 shown in FIG. 12. The steering knuckle
410 comprises a first connection point 412, a second connection
point 414, a third connection point 416 and an aperture 418. The
first connection point 412 is for pivotally coupling the steering
knuckle 410 to a pin of the linkage arm assembly 430. The second
connection point 414 is for pivotally coupling the steering knuckle
410 to the body 424 of the suspension arm assembly. The third
connection point 416 is for pivotally coupling the steering knuckle
410 to the further suspension arm 440. Aperture 418 accommodates
the CV joint 485 for the wheel 460. The steering knuckles 410 on
opposite sides or ends of the apparatus 300 can be mirror images of
one another. For example, the steering knuckle 410 may be mirrored
along an axis between connection points 475 and 414 depending on
the side of the apparatus 300 one which it is installed.
[0111] The coupling of the second connection point 414 and the
third connection point 416 to the body 330 via the suspension
system creates a pivot axis 470 around which the aperture 418, and
hence the wheel 460, can pivot. The wheel 460 is pivoted via the
movement of the first connection point 412 along the line 475 when
then board 305 is pivoted about the chassis 310. This pivoting of
the wheel causes the wheel 460 to steer for example, to the left
and tilt towards the centre of the apparatus 300 thereby reducing
the contact area of the tyres with the ground and encouraging
drift.
[0112] There is also a corresponding effect on the camber and/or
the castor and/or the toe angle of the wheel 460 at the rear of the
apparatus 300. It will be appreciated that pivoting the board 305
in the opposite direction will have the opposite effects.
[0113] FIG. 17 shows a top view of the steering arm assembly 430 of
the wheeled apparatus 300 shown in FIG. 12. The steering arm
assembly 430 comprises a first arm or rod 432 and a second arm or
rod 433 coupled to a corner bracket 434. The first arm 432
comprises an aperture 436 for pivotally coupling the first arm 432
to one of the coupling points 307. A pin 435 is pivotally coupled
to the corner bracket 434 and the pin comprises an aperture 437 for
pivotally coupling the steering arm assembly 430 to the steering
knuckle 410. The second arm 433 comprises an aperture 438 for
pivotally coupling the second arm 433 to the other coupling point
307.
[0114] FIG. 18 shows a top view of the drive shaft 380. A first end
382 of the drive shaft 380 is adapted to be received by the CV
joint 386. An opposing side of the CV joint 386 is coupled to a
shaft 388 which adapted to be received in the aperture 418 of the
steering knuckle 410. A second end 384 of the drive shaft 380 is
adapted to be connected to the connector 375.
[0115] FIG. 19 shows a top view of the suspension arm assembly 420
of the wheeled apparatus 300 shown in FIG. 12. The suspension arm
assembly comprises two arms 422, 423 coupled to a body 424. The
body 424 comprises a recess and aperture 427 to which the steering
knuckle 410 is pivotally mounted. Body 424 also comprises a pin 429
to attach the spring and shock absorber 450 to the suspension arm
assembly 420 The first arm 422 comprises an aperture 426 for
coupling the first arm 422 to one of the two connecting points 327
at the base of the body 330, The second arm 423 comprises an
aperture 428 for coupling the second arm 423 for coupling the
second arm 423 to the other of the two connecting points 327. A
support arm 425 connects between the first arm 422 and the second
arm 423 to strengthen the suspension arm assembly 420. A coupling
point 421 is provided for coupling the connecting rod 482 to the
suspension arm 420. In the embodiment shown, the coupling point 421
is a plate located at a junction of the support arm 425 and the
second arm 423.
[0116] FIG. 20 shows a top view of the spring and shock absorber
450. The spring and shock absorber 450 comprises a spring 455 and a
damper assembly 456. The spring and shock absorber 450 also
comprises a first aperture 452 at a first end for coupling to the
pin 429 of the suspension arm assembly 420 and a second aperture
453 at a second end for coupling to the pin 337 of the shock tower
335.
[0117] FIG. 21 shows a flow diagram of a method 500 of constructing
a wheeled apparatus for board sports comprising a board and a
plurality of wheels supported by a plurality of steering knuckles,
according to another aspect of the present invention. The method
500 comprises step 510 at which at least one linkage is coupled
between the board and the steering knuckles to enable a camber
and/or a caster and/or a toe angle of the wheels 260 to be adjusted
by pivoting the board.
[0118] Hence, embodiments of the present invention address or at
least ameliorate the aforementioned problems of the prior art. For
example, by having independent suspension systems 200 for each
wheel 260, the wheels can individually follow the contours of the
surface over which the apparatus 100 is travelling, thereby
increasing grip. The suspension systems 200 also absorbs impacts,
thereby allowing the rider to traverse rough terrain and perform
bigger jumps than otherwise possible with the prior art. By
incorporating steering links 240, the apparatus is more responsive
to turning than the prior art devices. Furthermore, incorporating
linkage arm assemblies 230 to modify the caster and/or camber
and/or toe angle of the wheels, it is easier to drift whilst
turning, which is often a desirable effect.
[0119] Throughout the specification the aim has been to describe
the preferred embodiments of the invention without limiting the
invention to any one embodiment or specific collection of features.
It is to be appreciated by those of skill in the art that various
modifications and changes can be made in the particular embodiments
exemplified without departing from the scope of the present
invention.
[0120] In this specification, the terms "comprise", "comprises",
"comprising" or similar terms are intended to mean a non-exclusive
inclusion, such that a system, method or apparatus that comprises a
list of elements does not include those elements solely, but may
well include other elements not listed.
* * * * *