U.S. patent application number 15/605848 was filed with the patent office on 2017-09-14 for foldable electric vehicle.
This patent application is currently assigned to URBAN626, LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is URBAN626, LLC. Invention is credited to Grant Delgatty, Sven Etzelsberger.
Application Number | 20170259871 15/605848 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 52624425 |
Filed Date | 2017-09-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170259871 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Delgatty; Grant ; et
al. |
September 14, 2017 |
Foldable Electric Vehicle
Abstract
Foldable electrical vehicles and related charging infrastructure
are described. The foldable electrical vehicle generally includes
three structural armatures (front and rear wheel-bearing armatures
and a seat-bearing armature) that are pivotally interconnected
along their lengths such that they may be pivoted between a closed
position wherein the three armatures are disposed roughly parallel
to each other in a compact folded configuration, and an open riding
configuration wherein an angular relation is formed between the
armatures.
Inventors: |
Delgatty; Grant; (Pasadena,
CA) ; Etzelsberger; Sven; (Pasadena, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
URBAN626, LLC |
Pasadena |
CA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
URBAN626, LLC
Pasadena
CA
|
Family ID: |
52624425 |
Appl. No.: |
15/605848 |
Filed: |
May 25, 2017 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14957322 |
Dec 2, 2015 |
9694868 |
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15605848 |
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14483064 |
Sep 10, 2014 |
9227687 |
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14957322 |
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61876124 |
Sep 10, 2013 |
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61929862 |
Jan 21, 2014 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B62K 5/06 20130101; B62K
2204/00 20130101; B62J 43/00 20200201; B60K 1/00 20130101; B62K
19/06 20130101; B62K 15/006 20130101; B62K 15/008 20130101; B62J
7/04 20130101; B62J 1/04 20130101; B62K 5/027 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B62K 15/00 20060101
B62K015/00; B62K 19/06 20060101 B62K019/06; B60K 1/00 20060101
B60K001/00; B62J 7/04 20060101 B62J007/04; B62J 1/04 20060101
B62J001/04; B62K 5/06 20060101 B62K005/06; B62K 5/027 20060101
B62K005/027 |
Claims
1. A foldable vehicle comprising: at least two wheel-bearing arms
each having first and second ends and each defining a wheel-bearing
arm longitudinal axis, each of said wheel-bearing arms having at
least one wheel assembly interconnected to the second end thereof
and a wheel-bearing arm pivot hinge bracket disposed along the
length thereof; at least one seat-bearing arm having first and
second ends and defining a seat-bearing arm longitudinal axis, the
seat-bearing arm having a seating platform interconnected to the
second end thereof and a seat-bearing pivot hinge bracket disposed
along the length thereof; a seat support element pivotably engaged
at a first end thereof along the length of the seat-bearing arm and
slidingly engaged at a second end thereof along the length of one
of the at least two wheel-bearing arms such that a triangular
configuration is formed between the seat-bearing arm, the at least
one wheel-bearing arm and the seat support element; and wherein the
at least two wheel-bearing arm pivot hinge brackets and the
seat-bearing pivot hinge bracket are configured to cooperatively
interconnect to form a vehicle pivot hinge such that the
wheel-bearing arms and seat-bearing arm are pivotably
interconnected about a single vehicle pivot point.
2. The foldable vehicle of claim 1, further comprising a steering
mechanism interconnected with at least one of said wheel-bearing
arms and configured to change the directional orientation of at
least one wheel assembly relative to the vehicle.
3. The foldable vehicle of claim 2, wherein the vehicle comprises a
front wheel-bearing arm and a rear wheel-bearing arm, and wherein
the steering mechanism is pivotably interconnected with the wheel
assembly of the front wheel-bearing arm to move between at least
two configurations: a first riding configuration wherein the
longitudinal axes of the front wheel-bearing arm and the steering
mechanism have angular offsets relative to each other, and a second
folded configuration wherein the longitudinal axes of the front
wheel-bearing arm and the steering mechanism are parallel.
4. The foldable vehicle of claim 3, further comprising a front
wheel assembly lock configured to prevent changes to the
directional orientation of the wheel assembly of the front
wheel-bearing arm when in the folded configuration.
5. The foldable vehicle of claim 3, wherein the front wheel-bearing
arm defines an internal volume having an energy storage device
disposed therein.
6. The foldable vehicle of claim 2, wherein the steering mechanism
is at least one handlebar, and wherein the height and angle of the
handlebar relative to height of the remainder of the vehicle is
adjustable.
7. The foldable vehicle of claim 1, wherein each of the at least
two wheel-bearing arm pivot hinge brackets and the seat-bearing arm
pivot hinge bracket are disposed proximal to the first end of their
respective arms.
8. The foldable vehicle of claim 1, further comprising a pivot
locking mechanism configured to disengageably lock the at least two
wheel-bearing arms in one of the at least two configurations.
9. The foldable vehicle of claim 8, wherein the pivot locking
mechanism comprises a plurality of locking grooves and a
cooperative locking pin configured to engage said locking grooves,
said locking grooves being disposed on at least one of the at least
two wheel-bearing arms, and said cooperative locking pin being
disposed on at least another of the at least two wheel-bearing arms
such that when the cooperative locking pin is engaged within the
locking grooves the at least two wheel-bearing arms are prevented
from pivoting relative to each other.
10. The foldable vehicle of claim 9, further comprising a locking
mechanism disengagement element disposed on the seat-bearing arm
and configured to disengage the pivot locking mechanism when the
seat-bearing arm is pivoted upward relative to the axial alignment
of the seat-bearing arm in one of either the first riding
configuration or the second folded configuration.
11. The foldable vehicle of claim 1, wherein the wheel-bearing arms
and seat-bearing arm move between at least two configurations
comprising: a first riding configuration wherein the longitudinal
axes of the at least two wheel-bearing arms and the seat-bearing
arm have angular offsets relative to each other, and a second
folded configuration wherein the longitudinal axes of the two
wheel-bearing arms and the seat-bearing arm are parallel.
12. The foldable vehicle of claim 1, wherein the axis of the seat
support element is orthogonal with the axis of the seat-bearing
arm.
13. The foldable vehicle of claim 1, wherein the seat support
element slidingly engages a channel disposed along a portion of the
wheel-bearing arm, the channel delineating a curvilinear path
between at least two configurations: a first riding configuration
wherein the longitudinal axes of the wheel-bearing arm and the
seat-bearing arm and the seat support element have angular offsets
relative to each other, and a second folded configuration wherein
the longitudinal axes of the wheel-bearing arm and the seat-bearing
arm and the seat support element are parallel.
14. The foldable vehicle of claim 13, wherein the seat support
element comprises a resilient member.
15. The foldable vehicle of claim 14, wherein the seat support
element is configured such that when the seat-bearing arm is
pivoted into the second folded configuration the resilient member
is placed into tension such that a resilient locking force is
applied to the seat-bearing arm to urge said seat-bearing arm into
position in the second folded configuration.
16. The foldable vehicle of claim 13, further comprising at least
one additional resilient element disposed in relation to said seat
support element to apply a force thereto, thereby urging said seat
support element into at least one of either the first riding
configuration or the second folded configuration.
17. The foldable vehicle of claim 1, wherein the vehicle comprises
two wheel-bearing arms, a front wheel-bearing element having a
front wheel assembly with a single wheel, and a rear wheel-bearing
element having a rear wheel assembly with at least one wheel.
18. The foldable vehicle of claim 17, wherein the rear wheel
assembly comprises at least two wheels interconnected via a fixed
axle.
19. The foldable vehicle of claim 17, wherein the rear wheel
assembly comprises at least two wheels interconnected via an axle
pivotable about a point perpendicular to the axis of the rear
wheel-bearing armature.
20. The foldable vehicle of claim 1, further comprising at least
one luggage rack disposed on at least one of the wheel-bearing
arms, said luggage rack being pivotable between at least two
configurations: a first riding configuration wherein the
longitudinal axes of the wheel-bearing arm and the luggage rack
have angular offsets relative to each other, and a second folded
configuration wherein the longitudinal axes of the wheel-bearing
arm and the luggage rack are parallel.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 14/957,322, filed Dec. 2, 2015, which
application was a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.
14/483,064, filed Sep. 10, 2014, which application claimed priority
to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/876,124, filed Sep. 10, 2013
and U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/929,862, filed Jan. 21,
2014, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference
in their entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Compact, foldable electric vehicles and charging stations
for said vehicles are described.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] A common difficulty encountered in public transport is in
trying to move people from a transportation hub, like a railway
station, bus stop, etc. to their desired destination, or from their
origination point to a transport hub. These problems are referred
to as the `last mile` or `first mile` problem, respectively. Where
the population of a place is not dense, like in areas where there
are extensive suburbs and exurbs, this difficulty can become
chronic making public transport impractical. A number of solutions
have been proposed to overcome this problem, including community
transportation such as feeder transport and ride or car sharing
programs, however, these methods require a social infrastructure
that is often either not available or not extensive enough to meet
commuter needs. Other solutions involve various forms of portable
transport, such as bicycles. Most of these personal forms of
transportation are relatively bulky and present challenges in
storage at both ends of the commute, as well as transport within
most public transport systems.
[0004] Accordingly, a need exists for personal transport devices
and infrastructure capable of addressing the `last mile`/`first
mile` challenge.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] The application is directed to portable electric vehicles
and infrastructure for portable electric vehicles.
[0006] Many embodiments are directed to a foldable vehicle
including: [0007] at least two wheel-bearing arms having first and
second ends and defining a wheel-bearing arm longitudinal axis,
each of said wheel-bearing arms having at least one wheel assembly
interconnected to the second end thereof and a wheel-bearing arm
pivot hinge bracket disposed along the length thereof; [0008] at
least one seat-bearing arm having first and second ends and
defining a seat-bearing arm longitudinal axis, the seat-bearing arm
having a seating platform interconnected to the second end thereof
and a seat-bearing pivot hinge bracket disposed along the length
thereof; and [0009] wherein the at least two wheel-bearing arm
pivot hinge brackets and the seat-bearing pivot hinge bracket are
configured to cooperatively interconnect to form a vehicle pivot
hinge such that the arms are pivotably interconnected about a
single vehicle pivot point to move between at least two
configurations: [0010] a first riding configuration wherein the
longitudinal axes of the two wheel-bearing arms and the
seat-bearing arms have angular offsets relative to each other, and
[0011] a second folded configuration wherein the longitudinal axes
of the two wheel-bearing arms and the seat-bearing arm are roughly
parallel.
[0012] In other embodiments, the foldable vehicle includes a
steering mechanism interconnected with at least one of said
wheel-bearing arms and configured to change the directional
orientation of at least one wheel assembly relative to the vehicle.
In some such embodiments the vehicle includes a front wheel-bearing
arm and a rear wheel-bearing arm, and wherein the steering
mechanism is pivotably interconnected with the wheel assembly of
the front wheel-bearing armature to move between at least two
configurations: [0013] a first riding configuration wherein the
longitudinal axes of the front wheel-bearing arm and the steering
mechanism have angular offsets relative to each other, and [0014] a
second folded configuration wherein the longitudinal axes of the
front wheel-bearing arm and the steering mechanism are roughly
parallel.
[0015] In still other embodiments, the foldable vehicle includes a
front wheel assembly lock configured to prevent changes to the
directional orientation of the wheel assembly of the front
wheel-bearing arm when in the folded configuration. In some such
embodiments the front wheel-bearing arm defines an internal volume
having an energy storage device disposed therein.
[0016] In yet other embodiments, the steering mechanism is at least
one handlebar, and wherein the height and angle of the handlebar
relative to the vehicle is adjustable.
[0017] In still yet other embodiments, the wheel-bearing pivot
hinge brackets and the seat-bearing pivot hinge bracket are
disposed proximal to the first end of their respective arms.
[0018] In still yet other embodiments, the foldable vehicle
includes a pivot locking mechanism configured to disengageably lock
the arms in one of the at least two configurations. In some such
embodiments, the pivot locking mechanism includes a plurality of
locking grooves and a cooperative locking pin configured to engage
said locking grooves, said locking grooves being disposed on at
least one of the at least two wheel-bearing arms, and said
cooperative locking pin being disposed on at least another of the
at least two wheel-bearing arms such that when the cooperative
locking pin is engaged within the locking grooves the at least two
wheel-bearing arms are prevented from pivoting relative to each
other.
[0019] In still yet other embodiments, the foldable vehicle
includes a locking mechanism disengagement element disposed on the
seat-bearing arm and configured to disengage the pivot locking
mechanism when the seat-bearing arm is pivoted upward relative to
the axial alignment of the seat-bearing arm in one of either the
first riding configuration or the second folded configuration.
[0020] In still yet other embodiments, the foldable vehicle
includes a seat support element pivotably engaged at a first end
thereof along the length of the seat-bearing arm and slidingly
engaged at a second end thereof along the length of one of the at
least two wheel-bearing arms such that a roughly triangular
configuration is formed between the seat-bearing arm, the at least
one wheel-bearing arm and the seat support element. In some such
embodiments, the axis of the seat support element is roughly
orthogonal with the axis of the seat-bearing arm. In some such
embodiments, the seat support element slidingly engages a channel
disposed along a portion of the wheel-bearing arm, the channel
delineating a curvilinear path between at least two configurations:
[0021] a first riding configuration wherein the longitudinal axes
of the wheel-bearing arm and the seat-bearing arm and the seat
support element have angular offsets relative to each other, and
[0022] a second folded configuration wherein the longitudinal axes
of the wheel-bearing arm and the seat-bearing arm and the seat
support element are roughly parallel.
[0023] In still yet other embodiments, the seat support element
comprises a resilient member. In some such embodiments the seat
support element is configured such that when the seat-bearing arm
is pivoted into the second folded configuration the resilient
member is placed into tension such that a resilient locking force
is applied to the seat-bearing arm to urge said seat-bearing arm
into position in the second folded configuration.
[0024] In still yet other embodiments, at least one additional
resilient element is disposed in relation to said seat support
element to apply a force thereto, thereby urging said seat support
element into at least one of either the first riding configuration
or the second folded configuration.
[0025] In still yet other embodiments, the vehicle includes two
wheel-bearing arms, a front wheel-bearing element having a front
wheel assembly with a single wheel, and a rear wheel-bearing
element having a rear wheel assembly with at least one wheel. In
some such embodiments the rear wheel assembly comprises at least
two wheels interconnected via a fixed axle. In still other such
embodiments, the rear wheel assembly comprises at least two wheels
interconnected via an axle pivotable about a point perpendicular to
the axis of the rear wheel-bearing arm.
[0026] In still yet other embodiments, the foldable vehicle
includes at least one luggage rack disposed on at least one of the
wheel-bearing arms, said luggage rack being pivotable between at
least two configurations: [0027] a first riding configuration
wherein the longitudinal axes of the wheel-bearing arm and the
luggage rack have angular offsets relative to each other, and
[0028] a second folded configuration wherein the longitudinal axes
of the wheel-bearing arm and the luggage rack are roughly
parallel.
[0029] In still yet other embodiments, the foldable vehicle of
claim 1, includes at least one electric motor disposed within at
least one of the wheel assemblies and an energy storage device
interconnected therewith.
[0030] In still yet other embodiments, the foldable vehicle
includes an electronics interconnection disposed thereon, the
electronics interconnection in signal communication with at least
one sensor configured to deliver information on at least one
vehicle parameter and deliver information from the at least one
sensor to the personal electronic device. In some such embodiments,
the at least one vehicle parameter is selected from the group
consisting of vehicle speed, energy consumption, energy reserve,
mileage, and direction.
[0031] Additional embodiments and features are set forth in part in
the description that follows, and in part will become apparent to
those skilled in the art upon examination of the specification or
may be learned by the practice of the disclosure. A further
understanding of the nature and advantages of the present
disclosure may be realized by reference to the remaining portions
of the specification and the drawings, which forms a part of this
disclosure.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0032] The description will be more fully understood with reference
to the following figures, which are presented as exemplary
embodiments of the invention and should not be construed as a
complete recitation of the scope of the invention, wherein:
[0033] FIGS. 1a and 1b provide perspective views of a three-wheeled
foldable electric vehicle in an open riding configuration (1a), and
a compact folded configuration (1b) in accordance with embodiments
of the invention.
[0034] FIGS. 1c and 1d provide front views of a three-wheeled
foldable electric vehicle in an open riding configuration (1c), and
a compact folded configuration (1d) in accordance with embodiments
of the invention.
[0035] FIGS. 1e and 1f provide back views of a three-wheeled
foldable electric vehicle in an open riding configuration (1e), and
a compact folded configuration (1f) in accordance with embodiments
of the invention.
[0036] FIGS. 1g and 1h provide top views of a three-wheeled
foldable electric vehicle in an open riding configuration (1g), and
a compact folded configuration (1h) in accordance with embodiments
of the invention.
[0037] FIGS. 2a and 2b provide perspective views of a two-wheeled
foldable electric vehicle in an open riding configuration (2a), and
a compact folded configuration (2b) in accordance with embodiments
of the invention.
[0038] FIGS. 2c and 2d provide front views of a two-wheeled
foldable electric vehicle in an open riding configuration (2c), and
a compact folded configuration (2d) in accordance with embodiments
of the invention.
[0039] FIGS. 2e and 2f provide back views of a two-wheeled foldable
electric vehicle in an open riding configuration (2e), and a
compact folded configuration (2f) in accordance with embodiments of
the invention.
[0040] FIGS. 2g and 2h provide top views of a two-wheeled foldable
electric vehicle in an open riding configuration (2g), and a
compact folded configuration (2h) in accordance with embodiments of
the invention.
[0041] FIGS. 3a to 3d show side views of a foldable electric
vehicle and the front wheel assembly and handlebar in an open
riding configuration (3a & 3c), and a compact folded
configuration (3b & 3d) in accordance with embodiments of the
invention.
[0042] FIG. 3e provides a perspective transparent view of a front
structural armature (3e) in accordance with embodiments of the
invention.
[0043] FIG. 4 provides a perspective view of a front wheel assembly
in accordance with embodiments of the invention.
[0044] FIGS. 5a and 5b show side views of a foldable electric
vehicle in a compact folded configuration (5a), and an open riding
configuration (5b) in accordance with embodiments of the
invention.
[0045] FIG. 5c provides a perspective view of a rear structural arm
in accordance with embodiments of the invention.
[0046] FIGS. 6a to 6d provide views of exemplary rear wheel
assemblies and components in accordance with embodiments of the
invention.
[0047] FIGS. 7a and 7b provide perspective views of a seat-bearing
arm (7a) and a seat resilient member (7b) in accordance with
embodiments of the invention.
[0048] FIGS. 8a to 8e provide perspective views of cooperative main
hinge components for a front wheel-bearing arm (8a), a rear
wheel-bearing arm (8b), a seat-bearing arm (8c) in accordance with
embodiments of the invention, a side assembly view (8d) of the main
pivot hinge of the vehicle, and a cross-sectional view (8e) of the
main pivot hinge assembly along view A1 of FIG. 8d in accordance
with embodiments of the invention.
[0049] FIGS. 9a and 9b provide side views of a three-wheeled
foldable electric vehicle in an open riding configuration (9a), and
a compact folded configuration (9b) in accordance with embodiments
of the invention.
[0050] FIGS. 9c and 9d provide side views of a two-wheeled foldable
electric vehicle in an open riding configuration (9c), and a
compact folded configuration (9d) in accordance with embodiments of
the invention.
[0051] FIGS. 10a to 10k provide perspective views of a foldable
electric vehicle and the folding mechanism in an open riding
configuration (10a & 10b), in a series of intermediate
positions between an open riding configuration and a compact folded
configuration (10c to 10h), and in a compact folded configuration
(10i to 10k) in accordance with embodiments of the invention.
[0052] FIGS. 11a and 11b show side views of a foldable electric
vehicle and the rear foldable luggage rack in a compact folded
configuration (11a), and an open riding configuration (11b) in
accordance with embodiments of the invention.
[0053] FIG. 12 provides a perspective view of a foldable electric
vehicle having a personal electronic device docking station in
accordance with embodiments of the invention.
[0054] FIGS. 13a and 13b provide schematic views of an exemplary
charging station for use in association with an exemplary foldable
electric vehicle in accordance with embodiments of the
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0055] Turning now to the drawings, foldable electric vehicles and
devices for charging such electric vehicles are described. In many
embodiments, the foldable electric vehicle generally comprises a
plurality of arms all cooperatively moveable between a folded
position wherein the arms are in a compact configuration suitable
for storing and transporting the vehicle, and an open position
wherein the arms are in a riding configuration suitable for the
operation of the vehicle. In many such embodiments the pivotable
arms may have disposed thereon wheels, motors, charge storage
devices, power distribution and control circuits, motor and vehicle
controls and instruments, accessories and all other necessary
devices and structures for the operation of the vehicle.
[0056] In some embodiments, the vehicle comprises two structural
wheel-bearing armatures (front and rear arms), and a seat arm that
are all pivotally interconnected along their lengths such that they
may be moved between a closed position wherein the three arms are
disposed roughly parallel to each other in a compact folded
configuration, and an open riding configuration wherein a downward
acute angle is formed between the two structural wheel-bearing
arms, and the seat arm is disposed in a position to support a rider
atop the vehicle.
[0057] In many embodiments, the pivot point between the three arms
is disposed at the upper ends of the arms distal to the wheels and
seat bearing ends thereof, to form an overall `A-frame`
configuration for the vehicle. In many other embodiments one of the
structural arms is configured to enclose a power source, such as,
for example, a battery or plurality of batteries. In many
embodiments this power source enclosing arm is disposed as the
front arm of the vehicle, and bears the front wheel thereof. In
many embodiments, the pivotable second wheel-bearing arm includes
one or more rear wheels at the distal end thereof. In some
embodiments these wheels may be interconnected to the arm on either
end of a truck assembly that is pivotable about a horizontal axis
perpendicular to the axis of the rear arm such that the rider of
the vehicle is capable of steering the vehicle by leaning in the
desired direction of the turn. It will be understood that the rear
wheel assembly may include a single wheel or multiple wheels
interconnected via an axle.
[0058] The folding and locking mechanism of the vehicle, in many
embodiments, interconnects the three arms of the vehicle in a
configuration that allows the disengagement of the locking
mechanism and the folding of the arms of the vehicle via the
manipulation of one of the arms of the vehicle. In some such
embodiments, the locking mechanism is disengaged by manipulating
the seat-bearing arm of the vehicle. In other embodiments the
locking mechanism of the vehicle includes a resilient member
interconnected with the seat-bearing arm that urges the
seat-bearing arm into the open and closed positions when the
vehicle is placed into such configurations.
[0059] As shown in FIGS. 1a and 1b, in many embodiments a
three-wheeled foldable vehicle is provided comprising at least
three arms: a front wheel-bearing arm (12) having disposed at the
distal end thereon at least a front wheel assembly (13), a rear
wheel-bearing arm (14) having disposed at the distal end thereon at
least a rear wheel assembly (15), and a seat-bearing arm (16) for
supporting a rider while operating the vehicle. These arms are
pivotally connected about a single pivot hinge (18) that allows
movement of the arms from an open riding configuration, shown in
one exemplary embodiment in FIG. 1a, to a folded compact
configuration, shown in one exemplary embodiment in FIG. 1b.
[0060] As shown, in FIG. 1a, the relative arrangement of the arms
of the vehicle in these configurations may be defined by the axial
arrangement of the arms around the pivot hinge (18), wherein each
arm is defined by an axis (20, 22 and 24). In some embodiments in
the open riding configuration the front and rear arms (12 & 14)
are positioned such that a downward acute angle (26) is created
between the axes (20 & 22) of the two wheel-bearing arms.
Although a particular angular arrangement is provide in FIG. 1a, it
should be understood that any angle suitable to form a usable
riding configuration may be formed depending on the specific
arrangement and geometry of the wheels and armatures desired. For
example, a suitable angle may be determined by factors such as the
distance between the wheels of the vehicle, the height of the seat
to the ground, etc.
[0061] In addition, in some embodiments of this open riding
configuration the seat-bearing arm (16) is pivoted such that its
axis (24) is disposed at an angle relative to the ground such that
a riding platform (28) is formed on which a rider may be seated to
operate the vehicle. As shown in FIG. 1a, in some embodiments the
riding platform (28) may be configured such that its axis (24) is
roughly parallel to the ground. In other embodiments adjustment
mechanisms may be provided to adjust the position of the riding
platform relative to the wheel-bearing arms as desired by the
rider. In such embodiments adjustments might include height
relative to the ground, distance relative to the handlebars, angle
relative to the pivot hinge (18), etc. Although one embodiment of a
riding platform (28) comprising a bicycle-style seat is shown in
FIG. 1a, it will be understood that the riding platform may take
any form, style or shape suitable to support a rider.
[0062] As shown in FIG. 1b, in many embodiments, in the compact
folded configuration the front, rear and seat arms (12, 14 &
16) are all pivoted about the pivot hinge (18) such that their axes
(20, 22, & 24) are disposed roughly parallel to each other. In
some embodiments of the vehicle, such as the one shown in FIG. 1b,
the axes (20, 22, & 24) of the arms are disposed parallel on to
the other, and the arms (12, 14 & 16) themselves are moved into
a configuration in which they are positioned adjacent to one
another. In one such embodiment, the pivoting of the arms comprises
a scissoring motion about the pivot hinge such that the distal ends
of each of the arms (30, 31 & 32) come together to face in a
single direction, again as shown in FIG. 1b.
[0063] Additional views of the vehicle (10) of FIGS. 1a and 1b, in
open and closed positions, including: front views (1c & 1d),
rear views (1e and 1f), and top views (1g and 1h) are provided
showing the elements described above.
[0064] Although the above description and the embodiments of the
vehicle shown in FIGS. 1a to 1h, describe an electric vehicle
having a three-wheel configuration (in which the front wheel
assembly (13) comprises a single wheel and the rear wheel assembly
(15) comprises two wheels), it will be understood that other wheel
configurations may be provided that have considerably the same
elements and operate in a manner commensurate to that described
above. For example, FIGS. 2a to 2h provide perspective views (2a
and 2b), front views (2c and 2d), rear views (2e and 2f), and top
views (2g and 2h) of an electric vehicle (10) having substantially
the same structure and function as described above with respect to
FIGS. 1a to 1h comprising a two-wheel configuration (in which both
the front (13) and rear (15) wheel assemblies comprises a single
wheel).
[0065] Turning now to the detailed construction of the vehicle,
several of the elements comprising the vehicle will be described,
including the front and rear wheel-bearing arms, and the
seat-bearing arm and all attendant structures and accessories.
Examining first the front wheel-bearing arm, FIGS. 3a to 3e provide
illustrations of embodiments of the vehicle (10) and the front
wheel-bearing arm (12).
[0066] As shown in FIGS. 3a to 3d, in many embodiments the vehicle
(10) comprises a front wheel-bearing arm (12) having at least one
front wheel assembly (13) mounted thereto, and a steering
mechanism, such as a handlebar or other suitable structure (34)
interconnected therewith. In some such embodiments, the steering
mechanism (34) can be used to alter the orientation of the front
wheel assembly (13) relative to the vehicle, and thus to steer the
vehicle when in the open/riding position (FIG. 3a), and to maneuver
the vehicle when in the closed/compact position (FIG. 3b). Although
in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 3a to 3d, the wheel assembly (13)
is pivotally interconnected to the front wheel-bearing arm (12)
through a rotatable pivot interconnection (36), in other
embodiments the wheel assembly might be fixedly attached to the
front wheel-bearing assembly, and the entire front wheel-bearing
assembly could be pivotable relative to the remaining vehicle
structure. Regardless, in many embodiments the steering mechanism
may be interconnected relative to the wheel assembly and front
wheel-bearing arm such that the orientation of at least the front
wheel relative to the remainder of the vehicle may be altered.
[0067] Although a "T"-shaped handlebar steering mechanism (34) is
shown in the figures, it will be understood that the steering
mechanism may be of any shape suitable and dimension such that a
rider may use the mechanism to alter the directional motion of the
vehicle. For example, a "U"-shaped handle bar steering mechanism
may be contemplated. In addition, in some embodiments the height of
the steering mechanism may also be adjustable, such as, for
example, via a telescoping mechanism, for convenience and comfort
of use, and in some embodiments to allow the steering mechanism to
be collapsed for storage such that the height of the handle bars do
not extend above the height of the remainder of the vehicle. In
embodiments, such as those shown in FIGS. 3a to 3e, having handles
(37) that extend out from the sides of framework, such as in a "T"
configuration the handle extensions may retract or fold into a more
compact form.
[0068] In many embodiments, as shown schematically in FIGS. 3a to
3d, the steering mechanism (34) may be pivoted between an open
position (FIGS. 3a and 3c), in which the axis (38) of the steering
mechanism is angled away from the axis (20) of the front
wheel-bearing arm (12), and a closed compacted position (FIGS. 3b
and 3d), in which the axis of the steering mechanism is aligned
along the vertical axis of the front wheel-bearing arm. In many
embodiments, as shown in detail in FIGS. 3c and 3d, the steering
mechanism (34) may be moved between the open and closed positions
by sliding the lower end (40) of the steering mechanism along a
locking channel (42) disposed on the wheel assembly (13) of the
front wheel-bearing arm (12). In some such embodiments, the
steering mechanism (34) may be interconnected with the wheel
assembly (13) via an upper pivot pin (44) that is disposed within a
pivot channel (46) formed in the steering mechanism, and a lower
locking pin (48) disposed on the steering mechanism that moves
within the locking channel (42) of the wheel assembly. Although the
pins and channels are disposed in the illustrated embodiment in a
particular configuration, it should be understood that pins and
channels may be distributed between the wheel assembly and steering
mechanism such that there is a constrained pivotable
interconnection therebetween. In many embodiments, the lower
locking pin (48) is configured to slide within the locking channel
(42) and move up and down therein between various positions
therealong thus causing the steering mechanism (34) to pivot about
the upper pivot pin (44) relative to the wheel assembly (13) and
the front wheel-bearing arm (12), as shown by the dashed arrows
(45) in FIG. 3a.
[0069] In many embodiments, to allow the steering mechanism to move
within the channel and lock into a desired position, an internal
tension spring (not shown) may be provided in association with the
steering mechanism (34) and one or more of the pins (44 and 48)
such that the steering mechanism may be securely locked into a
desired position. In some such embodiments, both locked positions
of the handlebar may be disengaged by either pressing downwards or
pulling upwards on the handlebar, as appropriate for the design and
arrangement of the locking channel and pins, and then rotated to
the desired lock position about the upper pivot pin (44) along the
locking channel (42). For example, in the embodiments shown in
FIGS. 3a to 3d, the locking positions of the locking channel (42)
comprise a series of notches (50) formed along the lower edge of
the locking channel. Accordingly, in such an embodiment a spring
may be provided to resiliently urge the locking pin (48) into the
notch (50) of the locking channel (42). Finally, although only a
two-position angular arrangement is shown between the steering
mechanism (34) and the front wheel-bearing arm (12), it should be
understood that other angles may be formed, or the angle of the
steering mechanism relative to the vehicle may be made continuously
or incrementally adjustable to allow the rider to adjust the riding
position of the vehicle. In many embodiments, such a function may
be provided by forming different locking positions (50) along the
locking channel (42).
[0070] In many embodiments, it may be desirable to prevent motion
of the front wheel assembly relative to the vehicle in the compact
folded or closed position, i.e., to lock the orientation of the
wheel relative to the vehicle. In such embodiments a wheel locking
mechanism may be provided to prevent the wheel and/or wheel
assembly (13) from changing orientation relative to the vehicle in
such a folded closed configuration. Although any suitable wheel
locking mechanism may be provided, in some embodiments a tab (52)
is provided on the pivotable portion of the wheel or wheel assembly
(13) such that in the close folded configuration (FIGS. 3b and 3d)
the tab engages the adjacent rear wheel-bearing assembly (14) or
other immobile portion of the vehicle to prevent independent motion
of the wheel or wheel assembly, and thereby a change in the
orientation of the wheel and/or wheel assembly relative to the
vehicle.
[0071] Turning now to the construction of the front wheel-bearing
arm assembly (12), as shown in FIG. 3e, in many embodiments the
front wheel-bearing arm is formed of an elongated body that may be
made hollow such that the body defines an interior volume (54). The
arm may be formed from any material suitable to provide sufficient
structural support to the vehicle, such as, for example, a metal,
composite, or polymer. In many embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3e,
the weight of the front wheel-bearing arm (12) may be lightened by
including fenestrations (56) along the elongated body. Although
certain fenestrations are shown in the figures, the number and
configuration of such fenestrations may take any geometry or shape
suitable to lighten the arm while maintaining the structural
integrity of the arm.
[0072] In many embodiments, the front wheel-bearing arm (12) may
comprise, at its lower end (58), an interconnection point (60) such
that a wheel assembly may be interconnected therewith. In some such
embodiments, such an interconnection may be pivotable such that the
wheel assembly may pivot relative to the front wheel-bearing
assembly.
[0073] In many embodiments, the front wheel-bearing arm (12) may
further comprise a front main pivot hinge bracket (62) disposed
along its length and configured such that the front main pivot
hinge bracket may be cooperatively coupled with the main pivot
hinge brackets provided on the rear wheel-bearing arm (14) and the
seat-bearing arm (16) to form the vehicle main pivot hinge (18) to
allow the front wheel-bearing arm (12) to pivot relative to the
other arms (14 and 16) that form the structure of the vehicle. Such
a front main pivot hinge bracket (62) may also comprise front
locking mechanism elements (64) for engaging a cooperative locking
mechanism on one or more of the other arms (14 and 16) of the
vehicle to prevent unintended movement of the arms relative to one
another. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3e, the locking
mechanism (64) comprises a series of locking grooves that are
configured to engage with a cooperative locking pin disposed on the
rear wheel-bearing arm (14).
[0074] The front wheel-bearing arm may also comprise certain
accessories, such as, for example, lights (66), charging
connections (68), personal electronic docking connections, (not
shown), etc. Although the energy storage and vehicle propulsion
systems may be distributed across the various arms and elements of
the vehicle, in many embodiments the energy storage elements (53),
such as, for example, one or more batteries may be disposed within
the internal volume (54) of the front wheel-bearing arm along with
any required electronics, electric interconnections (147), etc.
necessary for the operation of the electric vehicle.
[0075] As shown in FIG. 4, the front wheel assembly (13) generally
comprises a wheel (70) rotatable interconnected with the assembly,
such as via an axle or other suitable rotatable interconnection. As
described in relation to FIGS. 3a to 3e, the wheel assembly in many
embodiments may also include a pivotable interconnection (72) to
pivotally interconnect the wheel assembly to the front
wheel-bearing arm (12). In many embodiments, the wheel assembly
(13) may also comprise a steering mechanism interconnection (74)
that may be configured to allow the steering mechanism (34) to
pivot about the wheel assembly, thereby allowing the axis of the
steering mechanism to be repositioned relative to the front
wheel-bearing arm, and in turn the other arms of the vehicle. The
front wheel assembly may also include front footrests (76), which
may take any suitable form, such as, for example, a peg or pedal.
Such a footrest may be foldable or retractable to reduce the
profile of the footrest relative to the wheel assembly. Finally,
the wheel assembly may include other accessories, such as, for
example, a fender or mud-flap (78) mounted about the wheel (70) to
decrease water or other debris from being splattered against the
rider during operation. Although the motor or other propulsion
means may be distributed across the vehicle and interconnected via
suitable drive interconnections, in many embodiments the vehicle
propulsion mechanism may be disposed within the wheel assembly,
such as within the hub (79) of the wheel (70) to provide motive
force to the vehicle. In many such embodiments the propulsion
mechanism may include an electric motor (79') disposed within the
hub of the wheel (79) of the wheel assembly (13) and electrically
interconnected with the energy storage elements disposed elsewhere
in the vehicle.
[0076] Examining now the rear wheel-bearing arm, FIGS. 5a to 5f
provide views of embodiments of the vehicle (10) and the rear
wheel-bearing armature (14). As shown in FIGS. 5a and 5b, in many
embodiments the vehicle (10) comprises a rear wheel-bearing arm
(14) having a seat-bearing arm (16) interconnected therewith. In
such embodiments, the rear wheel-bearing arm (14) and seat-bearing
arm (16) are both pivotally interconnected at a first end (80) with
the front wheel-bearing assembly (12) via a pivot hinge assembly
(18) about which both of the wheel-bearing structural arms and the
seat-bearing post may all pivot relative to each other. The
seat-bearing arm (16) in some such embodiments may be further
interconnected with the rear wheel-bearing arm (14) through a
fourth arm referred to herein as a seat support element (82) to
provide further weight-bearing support to the seating platform (84)
of the seat-bearing arm during operation of the vehicle. The rear
wheel-bearing arm (14) further comprises a rear wheel assembly (15)
at a second end (86) distal from the pivot hinge assembly (18), as
will be described in greater detail below.
[0077] Turning now to the construction of the rear wheel-bearing
arm assembly (14), as shown in FIG. 5c, in many embodiments the
rear wheel-bearing arm is formed of an elongated body that may be
made hollow such that the body defines an interior volume (88). The
arm (14) may be formed from any material suitable to provide
sufficient structural support to the vehicle, such as, for example,
a metal, composite, or polymer. In many embodiments, as shown in
FIG. 5c, the weight of the rear wheel-bearing arm (14) may be
lightened by including fenestrations (90) along the body thereof.
Although certain fenestrations are shown in the figures, the number
and configuration of such fenestrations may take any geometry or
shape suitable to lighten the arm while maintaining the structural
integrity of the arm.
[0078] As further shown in FIGS. 5a to 5c, in many embodiments, the
rear wheel-bearing arm (14) may comprise, at its lower end (92), an
interconnection point (94) such that a wheel assembly may be
interconnected therewith. In some such embodiments, such an
interconnection may comprise a pivot point (96) such that the wheel
assembly may pivot relative to the rear wheel-bearing assembly, as
will be described in greater detail below.
[0079] In many embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 5a to 5c, the rear
wheel-bearing arm (14) may further comprise a rear main pivot hinge
bracket (98) disposed along its length and configured such that the
rear main pivot hinge bracket may be cooperatively coupled with the
main pivot hinge brackets on the other arms (12 and 16) to combine
to form the vehicle main pivot hinge (18) to allow the rear
wheel-bearing arm (14) to pivot relative to the other arms (12 and
16) that form the structure of the vehicle. Such a rear main pivot
hinge bracket (98) may also comprise a locking mechanism (99)
configured to engage a cooperative locking mechanism on one or more
of the other arms (12 and 16) of the vehicle to prevent unintended
movement of the arms relative to one another. In some embodiments,
as shown in FIG. 5c, the locking mechanism (99) may comprise a
movable pin (100) and arm (101) configured to engage cooperative
locking grooves on the rear wheel-bearing arm (103), front
wheel-bearing arm and cooperative locking portions on the
seat-bearing arm, as will be described in greater detail below.
[0080] In many embodiments the rear wheel-bearing arm (14) also
comprises a seat-bearing arm support groove (102) configured to
cooperatively and slidingly engage the seat-bearing arm support
(82). In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 5c, the seat-bearing
arm support groove (102) delineates a curved path along which the
seat-bearing arm support (82) may slidingly travel between a first
position (104) at which the seat-bearing arm (16) is locked into a
riding position where the seat-bearing arm is extended outward away
from the rear wheel-bearing arm, and a second position (106) at
which the seat-bearing arm is locked into a compact position where
the seat-bearing arm is folded against or flush with the rear
wheel-bearing arm. In some such embodiments, the path includes
locking positions, formed for example of notches (108) at either
end of the groove (102) where the riding position is engaged when
the supporting member is locked into position in the slot higher up
along the structural arm (104), and where the compacted position is
engaged when the supporting member is locked into position in the
slot lower down along the structural arm (106). As will be
discussed in greater detail below, the seat-bearing arm support
(82) may be formed of a resilient member (125), and configured such
that when said seat-bearing arm (16) is pivoted into the locking
position (106) of the groove (102) the resilient member is placed
into tension such that a resilient locking force is applied to lock
the seat-bearing arm into position against the adjacent
wheel-bearing arm. In addition, although not shown, in some
embodiments a resilient spring may be provided to restrain the
seat-bearing arm support within the groove and notches and to
assist in directing it along the groove during operation.
[0081] Although not shown, other accessories may be included with
the rear wheel-bearing arm, including lights, charging connections,
personal electronic docking connections, luggage racks, etc.
Although the energy storage and vehicle propulsion systems may be
distributed across the various arms and elements of the vehicle, in
many embodiments the energy storage elements (89), such as, for
example, one or more batteries may be disposed within the internal
volume (88) of the rear wheel-bearing arm along with any required
electronics, electric interconnections, etc. necessary for the
operation of the electric vehicle.
[0082] As described above a rear wheel assembly (15) is mounted to
the lower end (86) of the rear wheel-bearing arm (14). As shown in
FIGS. 6a to 6d, this rear wheel assembly may comprise one or
multiple wheels in accordance with embodiments of the vehicle. In
many embodiments the rear wheel assembly (15) comprises an axle
(110) fixedly attached at the lower end (86) of the rear
wheel-bearing arm (14). In some embodiments this fixed axle may
comprise a plurality of wheels (112) as shown in FIG. 6a, or a
single wheel as shown in FIG. 6d. In some embodiments the rear
wheel assembly (15) may include resilient members (114), such as
shock absorbing springs, to provide a shock dampening to the
vehicle. In some such embodiments, the wheels of the rear wheel
assembly may also be affixed to the rear wheel-bearing arm (14) in
a configuration that would allow the wheels to move relative to the
rear wheel-bearing arm. In one such embodiment, illustrated in
FIGS. 6b and 6c, the rear wheel assembly (15) is pivotally
interconnected to the rear wheel-bearing arm (14) via a rear wheel
pivot hinge (116) such that the wheels (112) of the rear wheel
assembly are pivotable about a horizontal axis (117) perpendicular
to the axis (24) of the rear arm such that the rider of the vehicle
is capable of steering the vehicle by leaning in the desired
direction of the turn. (A cross section of such a pivotable
interconnection is shown in FIG. 6c. This is cross-section AL of
FIG. 6b.)
[0083] Finally, it will be understood that in many embodiments
either the front or rear wheel assemblies may be configured as a
removable and/or interchangeable structure, such that the wheels of
the vehicle may be removed and the vehicle can be reconfigured
between a single or dual-wheel design as desired by the user. This
interchangeability can be accomplished by interconnecting one or
both of the front or rear wheel assemblies (whether single or dual
wheel design) via removable bolts, or a quick-connect attachment,
such as, for example, a spring-loaded pin, latch, or other
coupling. In embodiments where a two-wheel vehicle design is
desired, the vehicle may further include a kickstand or otherwise
retractable support, such that the vehicle may stand when
unattended by the user.
[0084] Examining now the seat-bearing armature, FIGS. 7a and 7b
provide perspective views of the seat-bearing arm (16) and the
seat-bearing arm support (82), respectively. As shown in FIG. 7a,
in many embodiments the seat-bearing armature (16) generally
comprises an elongated arm having at one end (118) a seat main
pivot hinge bracket (120) and a seating platform (84) at an
opposite end thereof. In some embodiments the seat main pivot hinge
bracket (120) is configured to cooperatively interconnect with the
main pivot hinge brackets of the front and rear wheel-bearing arms
(12 and 14) to form the main vehicle hinge pivot (18) to allow the
seat-bearing arm (16) to pivot relative to the other arms (12 and
14) that form the structure of the vehicle. Such a seat pivot hinge
bracket (120) may also comprise a locking mechanism configured to
engage a cooperative locking mechanism on one or more of the other
arms (12 and 16) of the vehicle to prevent unintended movement of
the arms relative to one another. In some embodiments, as shown in
FIG. 7a, the locking mechanism may comprise a movable lock
disengagement pin (122) configured to engage cooperative locking
arms on the rear wheel-bearing arm such that the engagement and
disengagement of the locking mechanism is activated by manipulating
the seat-bearing arm, as will be described in greater detail
below.
[0085] In many embodiments, the seat-bearing arm (16) also
comprises a seat-bearing arm support bracket (124) for pivotally
interconnecting the seat-bearing arm with a seat-bearing arm
support member (82). In some embodiments the seat-bearing arm
support member may be formed of a resilient member (125), such as,
for example, a shock absorber, as shown in FIG. 7b. In such
embodiments, the resilient seat-bearing arm supporting member (82)
is pivotally interconnected with the seat-bearing arm (16) at one
end through a seat-bearing support pin (126) (or other suitable
cooperative pivotable interconnection element), and slidingly
interconnected with the rear wheel-bearing arm (14) at its second
end through a sliding pin (128) (or other suitable cooperative
sliding interconnection element), to form a triangulated support
structure that cantilevers the seat-bearing arm (16) into a riding
position in the open/riding configuration of the vehicle to dampens
the shocks or bumps of the road such that the rider experiences a
smoother ride. In addition, as will be discussed in greater detail
below, the resilient member (125) of the seat-bearing arm support
(82) may also be configured such that when said seat-bearing arm
(16) is pivoted into the locking position the resilient member is
placed into tension such that a resilient locking force is applied
to lock the seat-bearing arm into position against the adjacent
wheel-bearing arm.
[0086] The seat-bearing armature (16) may also comprise certain
accessories, such as, for example, lights, charging connections,
personal electronic docking connections, (not shown), etc. Although
the energy storage and vehicle propulsion systems may be
distributed across the various arms and elements of the vehicle, in
many embodiments the energy storage elements (129), such as, for
example, one or more batteries may be disposed within the internal
volume (130) of the seat-bearing arm along with any required
electronics, electric interconnections, etc. necessary for the
operation of the electric vehicle. The arm may be formed from any
material suitable to provide sufficient structural support to the
vehicle, such as, for example, a metal, composite, or polymer.
Although not shown, in many embodiments the weight of the seat
bearing arm may be lightened by including fenestrations along the
elongated body thereof. Any number and configuration of such
fenestrations may take any geometry or shape suitable to lighten
the arm while maintaining the structural integrity of the arm. The
position of the seat-bearing arm (16) and/or the seat platform (84)
may be adjustable relative to the remainder of the vehicle. In such
embodiments adjustments might include height relative to the
ground, distance relative to the handlebars, angle relative to the
main vehicle pivot hinge (18), etc. Although one embodiment of a
seating platform (84) comprising a bicycle-style seat is shown in
FIG. 7a, it will be understood that the riding platform may take
any form, style or shape suitable to support a rider.
[0087] As shown in FIGS. 8a to 8e, in many embodiments the vehicle
(10) includes a main vehicle pivot hinge assembly (18) about which
both of the wheel-bearing structural arms (12 and 14) and the
seat-bearing (16) arm are pivotally connected. In addition, the
seat-bearing arm support (82) may also be configured such that when
said seat-bearing arm (16) is pivoted into the locking position the
resilient member is placed into tension such that a resilient
locking force is applied to lock the seat-bearing arm into position
against the adjacent wheel-bearing arm.
[0088] As shown in detail in FIGS. 8b to 8e, each of the arms
includes a cooperative pivot hinge bracket (62, 98 and 120), each
of which engage and pivot about a main pivot pin (132). An
exemplary embodiment of the assembly of these elements into the
main vehicle pivot hinge assembly (18) is shown in cross-section in
FIG. 8b. As shown, in many embodiments the cooperative pivot hinge
brackets are disposed in a nested arrangement forming a hollow
pivot passage (134), wherein the seat pivot hinge bracket (120)
forms the innermost element, the rear pivot hinge bracket (98) the
outermost element, and the front pivot hinge bracket (62) is
disposed therebetween, although this configuration may be reordered
without effecting the operation or function of the folding function
of the vehicle. The main pivot pin (132) is inserted through the
hollow pivot passage (134) to interconnect the three arms in a
pivotable arrangement.
[0089] In many embodiments, as will be described in relation to
FIGS. 8c to 8e, the main vehicle pivot hinge assembly (18) may
further comprise a cooperative locking mechanism configured to be
moved between a first locking position where the vehicle, including
structural arm and seat-bearing post, are disposed and secured in
the open/riding position, and a second locking position where the
vehicle is disposed and secured in the closed/compacted position.
Although such a cooperative locking mechanism may take any suitable
form, in some embodiments, as shown in the figures, the mechanism
may take the form of a pin and groove arrangement. In one such
embodiment, a pivotable arm (100) and pin (101) disposed in
association with the rear pivot hinge bracket (98) is configured to
disengage and engage locking grooves (64) formed into the front
pivot hinge bracket (62) through the action of seat lock
disengagement pin (122) disposed on the seat-bearing arm (16) such
that the arms (12 and 14) are prevented from pivoting in relation
to each other while the pin (101) is engaged in one of the locking
grooves (64). As shown, two positions are described (64a and 64b).
As will be described in greater detail below, in embodiments the
locking pin (101) is disengaged from the open/riding position
(groove 64a) and the closed/compacted position (groove 64b) by
pulling up on the seat-bearing arm (16) such that disengagement pin
(122) engages arm (100), thereby lifting pin (101) out of groove
(64). In some such embodiments, the locking pin (101) moves between
the locking positions (64a and 64b) by sliding along the top edge
(136) of the rear pivot hinge assembly (62). Again, it should be
understood that although a specific arrangement of cooperative
locking elements are described, any suitable locking mechanism and
arrangement of elements may be provided. In many embodiments, such
locking mechanisms and arrangements are configured such that the
locking mechanism is disengaged by lifting the seat-bearing arm.
Likewise, although only two locking positions are described above,
it will be understood that intermediary locking positions may be
defined such that desirable vehicle configurations may be stably
formed.
[0090] FIGS. 9a to 9d provide schematics showing the movement
(arrows) of the various elements of the vehicle (10) relative to
one another. As shown, in addition to the wheel and seat-bearing
arms (12, 14 & 16), other elements of the vehicle may be
provided which cooperate in forming the open and compacted forms of
the vehicle, including steering mechanism (34), in which the axis
(38) of the handlebars may be pivoted between a position having an
angular offset (39) from the axis (20) of the front wheel-bearing
arm (12), and a position where the axis of the handlebars is
parallel to the axis of the front wheel-bearing arm. The
seat-bearing arm (16), which may also be configured such that when
said seat-bearing arm support (82) is pivoted into the locking
position the resilient member (125) is placed into tension (as
shown by arrows in FIGS. 9b and 9d) such that a resilient locking
force is applied to lock the seat-bearing arm into position against
the adjacent wheel-bearing arm. Additionally, a storage rack (140)
or other similar accessories could be provided that would be
pivotable between an open position where a platform is provided
suitable for holding objects, and a compacted position where the
platform is folded against the body of the vehicle. It should be
understood that though the luggage rack is shown disposed on the
rear wheel-bearing arm, a similar structure could be disposed on
other portions of the vehicle.
[0091] Turning now to the operation of the folding mechanism of the
electric vehicle (10), as described above, and as will be discussed
in relation to FIGS. 10a to 10k, in many embodiments the two
wheel-bearing arms (12 and 14), and the seat-bearing arm (16) of
the vehicle (10) are all pivotally interconnected at the same pivot
point (18) such that a single folding mechanism operates to
moveably reposition all the arms of the vehicle cooperatively. As
shown, in many embodiments the folding mechanism comprises a
central hinge pin (18) about which each of the arms (12, 14 and 16)
are pivotally interconnected. A locking mechanism (99) comprising,
in many embodiments, a pin and groove arrangement, disposed at the
proximal end of the rear wheel-bearing arm (14) may also be
provided to lock the arms of the vehicle into open and compact
configurations. In many such embodiments the locking mechanism (99)
is disengaged by manipulating the seat-bearing arm (16), such as,
for example, by lifting upward on the arm.
[0092] As shown in FIGS. 10a and 10b, in many embodiments the
seat-bearing arm (16) may also be pivotally connected with a
resilient supporting member (82), such as, for example, a shock
absorber to form a triangulated support structure that cantilevers
the seat post into a riding position and dampens the shocks or
bumps of the road such that the rider experiences a smoother ride.
In such embodiments, the resilient supporting member may be
pivotally interconnected (126) with the seat arm (16) at one end,
such as, for example, via a pivot pin, and slidingly interconnected
(128) with the rear wheel-bearing arm (14) at its second end. In
such embodiments, the resilient supporting member (82) may slide
within a channel or slot (102) formed into the rear wheel-bearing
arm between upper (108) and lower (106) locking positions.
[0093] During operation of some embodiments, the locking mechanism
(99) is disengaged from both the open/riding position and the
closed/compacted position by pulling up on the seat-bearing post
(16), as shown in FIGS. 10c to 10e. In some such embodiments, the
locking mechanism (99) includes a pin and groove mechanism, wherein
the seat lock disengagement pin (122) of the seat-bearing arm (16)
engages the armature (100) on the rear locking mechanism to lift
the rear locking pin (101) out of engagement with the locking
grooves (64 and 103, not shown) on the front and rear arms to allow
the armatures to move between the locking positions. In addition,
in some embodiments the sliding interconnection (128) on the
seat-bearing support (82) is lifted free of notch (108) on the
locking groove (102) to allow the sliding interconnection to slide
along groove (102). In addition, in some embodiments a resilient
spring (142) may be provided to apply a resilient guiding force to
the sliding interconnection (128) of the seat-bearing arm support
within the groove (102) and notches (106 and 108), thereby
assisting in directing it along the groove during operation,
thereby advancing the movement and operation of the folding
mechanism of the vehicle.
[0094] As shown in FIGS. 10f to 10h, once the locking mechanism
(99) and the seat-bearing support (82) are disengaged by raising
the seat up, the arms may be pivoted from the open configuration to
the closed configuration. In some embodiments, as the arms (12, 14
and 16) pivot downward (as indicated by the arrow) the locking pin
(101) slides along the top edge (136) of the front pivot hinge
bracket (62). Likewise, in many embodiments, the resilient
supporting member (82) slides within locking channel or slot (102)
formed into the rear wheel-bearing arm (14), said channel or slot
delineating a path between closed and open positions of the
mechanism.
[0095] As shown in FIGS. 10i to 10k, once the arms reach their
terminus in the closed/compact configuration wherein the arms are
adjacent in a roughly parallel alignment, the locking mechanism
(99) reengages to lock the wheel-bearing arms into the closed
configuration. In particular, as shown in the figures, in many
embodiments the seat locking pin (122) disengages the arm (100)
allowing the rear locking pin (101) to engage the second locking
groove (64b) on the front pivot hinge bracket (62), as shown in
FIG. 10k. The pin (101) also reengages the rear locking groove
(103) on the rear wheel-bearing arm (14) thereby locking the front
and rear wheel-bearing arms in the closed configuration where the
axes of the arms are roughly parallel such that a compact form is
obtained. The seat-bearing arm support element (82), may also be
configured such that when said seat-bearing arm (16) is pivoted
into the locking position (106) along the locking groove (102), the
resilient member (125) is placed into tension (as shown by arrows
in FIG. 9d) such that a resilient locking force is applied to lock
the seat-bearing arm into position against the adjacent
wheel-bearing arm. In addition, in some embodiments a resilient
spring (143) may be provided in association with the pivoting
interconnection (126) to apply a resilient guiding force to the
pivoting interconnection of the seat-bearing arm support (82)
thereby assisting in locking the seat-bearing arm support into a
closed position within the body of the rear wheel-bearing arm (14)
and, in turn, the seat-bearing armature into a closed position
against the adjacent rear wheel-bearing arm (14) during a folding
operation.
[0096] It should be understood that although the illustrated
embodiments show specific configurations of locking mechanisms,
including particular geometries, dispositions and configurations of
pins, channels, grooves, notches, etc. that these elements could be
modified substantially while maintaining the functionality of the
vehicle folding mechanism such that a single cooperative pivot
point and locking mechanism is provided capable of being engaged
and operated to simultaneously fold the arms of the vehicle from an
open/riding position such that the seat is extended outward away
from the structural arm, and a second/closed position at which the
seat is locked into a compact position where the seat is folded
against or flush with the second structural armature, via the
manipulation of one of the arms of the vehicle, such as, for
example, the seat-bearing arm.
[0097] An optional element that may be provided on the vehicle (10)
is a luggage rack (140). In many embodiments, the luggage rack
comprises an elongated platform that may be disposed in any
suitable location on the vehicle. In some embodiments, as shown in
FIGS. 11a and 11b, the luggage rack (140) may be disposed along the
length of the rear wheel-bearing arm (in many embodiments at the
lower end (86) of the armature (14). Such a rack, in many
embodiments may also be configured such that it is repositionable
between open and compact configurations. In some embodiments the
luggage rack may be pivotable between a closed position (shown in
FIG. 11a) where the luggage rack is folded against the rear
wheel-bearing arm, and an open position (shown in FIG. 11b) where
the luggage rack forms a platform suitable for the support of
objects placed thereon, such an action may be mechanically coupled
to the folding of the arms or may be independently actuated. In
some such embodiments, the position of the luggage rack (140)
relative to the rear wheel-bearing arm (14) may be defined by the
axis (144) of the luggage rack. In one such embodiment, in the open
position (FIG. 11b) the axis (144) of the luggage rack forms an
angle relative to the axis (22) of the rear wheel-bearing arm,
while in the closed position (FIG. 11a) the axis of the luggage
rack is substantially parallel to the axis of the rear
wheel-bearing arm. It should be understood that, although the
luggage rack (140) is disposed on the rear wheel-bearing arm (14)
of the vehicle, it may be positioned anywhere along the vehicle
such a suitable object supporting platform may be formed.
[0098] In still other embodiments, as shown in FIG. 12, the vehicle
(10) may include other electrical components including lights (146)
and interconnections (147) for accessories (148), such as, for
example, mobile handsets or other personal electronics. The
electronics interconnection (147) may be disposed anywhere on the
vehicle suitable for use. In some embodiments the electronics
interconnection (147) is placed in signal communication with at
least one sensor configured to deliver information on at least one
vehicle parameter and deliver information from the at least one
sensor to the personal electronic device. In some such embodiments
the at least one vehicle parameter is selected from the group
consisting of vehicle speed, energy consumption, energy reserve,
mileage, and direction.
[0099] In embodiments, the disclosure is also directed to a
charging station configured to electrically interconnect to the
vehicle such that electrical power can be introduced to the power
source via one or more electrical connectors disposed on a portion
of the external structure of the vehicle. In some embodiments, the
electrical connectors are disposed on the front structural arm of
the vehicle and the charging station is configured to engage the
vehicle in a closed/compact configuration. In other embodiments,
the charging station further includes vehicle securing assemblies
for securely attaching and locking the vehicle into a charging
position where the electrical connectors on the charging station
and vehicle are electrically interconnected. An exemplary charging
station (150) for use with a foldable electric vehicle is also
shown in FIGS. 13a and 13b, in many embodiments the charging
station generally comprises a framework (152) having one or more
charging contacts (154) that are configured to electrically
interconnect with a foldable electric vehicle (156) to provide a
power recharging source. Although one configuration of a charging
station is shown in the figures, it will be understood that the
location, number size and configuration of the charging contacts
and vehicle interconnection may be altered to suit the specific
design of the vehicle. In addition, although a single unit is
described, in embodiments multiple charging stations can be
provided and interconnected through a single central kiosk for
controlling the stations, payments and control
charging/availability.
Doctrine Of Equivalents
[0100] As can be inferred from the above discussion, the
above-mentioned concepts can be implemented in a variety of
arrangements in accordance with embodiments of the invention. For
example, though the foldable vehicle has been described in relation
to an electric vehicle, it will be understood that the construction
and folding mechanism described could be adapted for use with other
propulsion types, including, for example, a gasoline powered
internal combustion engine. Likewise, although the vehicle has been
described in relation to two wheel-bearing armatures, it will be
understood that any number of armatures could be used along with
the proposed vehicle folding mechanism.
[0101] Accordingly, although the present invention has been
described in certain specific aspects, many additional
modifications and variations would be apparent to those skilled in
the art. It is therefore to be understood that the present
invention may be practiced otherwise than specifically described.
Thus, embodiments of the present invention should be considered in
all respects as illustrative and not restrictive.
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