U.S. patent application number 15/959095 was filed with the patent office on 2018-08-23 for powered skateboard.
The applicant listed for this patent is Inboard Technology, Inc.. Invention is credited to Theodore Cerboneschi, Ryan Evans.
Application Number | 20180236348 15/959095 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 58720028 |
Filed Date | 2018-08-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180236348 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Evans; Ryan ; et
al. |
August 23, 2018 |
POWERED SKATEBOARD
Abstract
A powered skateboard having a powered wheel. The powered wheel
formed of a motor within tire of the wheel. The powered wheel fixed
to a truck of the powered skateboard. The powered skateboard
including at least one onboard battery to provide electrical power
to the powered wheel.
Inventors: |
Evans; Ryan; (San Francisco,
CA) ; Cerboneschi; Theodore; (San Francisco,
CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Inboard Technology, Inc. |
Soquel |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
58720028 |
Appl. No.: |
15/959095 |
Filed: |
April 20, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
15360878 |
Nov 23, 2016 |
9950243 |
|
|
15959095 |
|
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|
|
62260203 |
Nov 25, 2015 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63C 17/223 20130101;
B60Y 2200/91 20130101; B60K 2007/0092 20130101; B60Y 2200/81
20130101; A63C 2203/42 20130101; G05D 1/0276 20130101; A63C 2203/12
20130101; B60K 1/04 20130101; B60Y 2200/112 20130101; A63C 17/017
20130101; A63C 17/12 20130101; B60K 7/0007 20130101; B60K 2007/0038
20130101; A63C 2203/22 20130101; A63C 2203/24 20130101; A63C
2203/14 20130101; A63C 17/015 20130101; A63C 17/26 20130101; A63C
17/012 20130101; B62D 65/02 20130101; A63C 2203/44 20130101; B60K
17/046 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A63C 17/12 20060101
A63C017/12; B60K 7/00 20060101 B60K007/00; B62D 65/02 20060101
B62D065/02; A63C 17/01 20060101 A63C017/01; G05D 1/02 20060101
G05D001/02 |
Claims
1. A powered skateboard, comprising: a skateboard deck having an
internal cavity configured to store one or more electrical
components; a skateboard truck disposed on a bottom portion of the
skateboard deck; and a motorized wheel attached to the skateboard
truck and controlled by the one or more electrical components
stored in the skateboard deck, the motorized wheel configured to
move the powered skateboard at variable speeds.
2. The powered skateboard of claim 1, wherein the one or more
electrical components compose: a battery for providing power to the
motorized wheel; and a controller for controlling the variable
speeds of the motorized wheel.
3. The powered skateboard of claim 1, wherein the motorized wheel
comprises: a hub motor having a stator potion disposed at a fixed
position relative to an axle of the skateboard truck; a wheel
portion configured to rotate about the stator portion; and a
releasable retaining ring configured to secure the wheel portion
onto the motorized wheel.
4. The powered skateboard of claim 3, wherein the powered
skateboard further composes: a motorized wheel adaptor configured
to be disposed on the axle of the skateboard truck and to
facilitate securing of the stator portion in fixed position onto
the motorized wheel adaptor.
5. The powered skateboard of claim 1, wherein the motorized wheel
comprises a planetary gear system.
6. The powered skateboard of claim 1, wherein the controller is
configured to, at least, control the motorized wheel based on a
control signal received through a transceiver.
7. The powered skateboard of claim 2, further comprising a motion
sensor and wherein the controller is configured to, at least:
monitor an angle of elevation of a front portion of the skateboard
deck relative to a rear portion of the skateboard deck; and change
an operation of the motorized wheel based on the monitored angle of
elevation.
8. The powered skateboard of claim 7, wherein changing the
operation of the motorized wheel comprises: decreasing or reversing
a power output of the motorized wheel in response to a
determination that the angle of elevation of the front portion of
the skateboard deck relative to the rear portion of the skateboard
deck has exceeded a threshold angle.
9. The powered skateboard of claim 2, further comprising a location
sensor and wherein the controller is configured to, at least: stop
providing power to the motorized wheel in response to a
determination that the powered skateboard is outside of an allowed
geographical region.
10. The powered skateboard of claim 2, further comprising a
location sensor and wherein the controller is configured to, at
least: limit an amount of power provided to the motorized wheel
based on one or more conditions associated with a geographical
region in which the powered skateboard is being operated.
11. A method of making a powered skateboard, comprising: providing
a skateboard deck having an internal cavity configured to store one
or more electrical components; attaching a skateboard truck to a
bottom portion of the skateboard deck; and attaching a motorized
wheel to the skateboard truck, the motorized wheel being controlled
by the one or more electrical components stored in the skateboard
deck and configured to move the powered skateboard at variable
speeds.
12. The method of claim 11, wherein providing a skateboard having
an internal cavity configured to store one or more electrical
components, the electrical components comprises: storing a battery
in the internal cavity of the skateboard deck, the battery
configured to provide power to the motorized wheel; and installing
a controller in the internal cavity of the skateboard deck, the
controller configured to control the variable speeds of the
skateboard deck motorized wheel.
13. The method of claim 11, wherein the motorized wheel comprises:
a hub motor having a stator potion disposed at a fixed position
relative to an axle of the skateboard truck; a wheel portion
configured to rotate about the stator portion; and a releasable
retaining ring configured to secure the wheel portion onto the
motorized wheel.
14. The method of claim 13, wherein providing a skateboard deck
further comprises: installing a motorized wheel adaptor onto on an
axle of the skateboard truck, the motorized wheel adapter
configured to facilitate securing of the stator portion in fixed
position onto the motorized wheel adaptor.
15. The method of claim 11, wherein the motorized wheel comprises a
planetary gear system
16. The method of claim 11, wherein the controller is configured
to, at least, control the motorized wheel based on a control signal
received through a transceiver.
17. The method of claim 12, further comprising: installing a motion
sensor configured to monitor the motion of the powered skateboard,
and wherein the controller is configured to, at least: monitor an
angle of elevation of a front portion of the skateboard deck
relative to a rear portion of the skateboard deck; and change an
operation of the motorized wheel based on the monitored angle of
elevation.
18. The method of claim 17, wherein changing the operation of the
motorized wheel comprises: decreasing or reversing a power output
of the motorized wheel in response to a determination that the
angle of elevation of the front portion of the skateboard deck
relative to the rear portion of the skateboard deck has exceeded a
threshold angle.
19. The method of claim 12, further comprising: installing a
location sensor and wherein the controller is configured to, at
least stop providing power to the motorized wheel in response to a
determination that the powered skateboard is outside of an allowed
geographical region.
20. The method of claim 12, further comprising: installing a
location sensor and wherein the controller is configured to, at
least: limit an amount of power provided to the motorized wheel
based on one or more conditions associated with a geographical
region in which the powered skateboard is being operated.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser.
No. 15/360,878, filed on Nov. 23, 2016, which claims the benefit of
U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/260,203, filed on Nov.
25, 2015, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its
entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The subject matter described herein relates to skateboards
and in particular to powered skateboards.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Skateboards typically include an elongated board, sometimes
referred to as a deck, having an upper surface and a lower surface.
The upper surface typically support the feet of a rider of the
skateboard and the lower surface typically have two trucks attached
to the deck disposed toward either end of the deck. The upper
surface may support the rider who is sitting on the skateboard. The
trucks typically include one or more axles. Wheels, typically one
on either side of the truck, attach to the axles. The trucks
typically provide several degrees of freedom to the wheels relative
to the skateboard deck, allowing the wheels to roll over uneven
ground and facilitate turning of the skateboard by the rider.
[0004] Skateboards typically require the rider to provide the
propelling force to move the skateboard, usually by the rider
having one foot on the deck of the skateboard and another pushing
off from the ground.
[0005] Some skateboards have been developed that include a power
source. The power source may be a gasoline powered engine. The
power source may be an electrically-powered motor. Typically, such
power sources are appended to the underside of the skateboard deck
or rest on top of the skateboard deck. These power source is
typically separate from the wheels of the skateboard and connected
to the wheels by gears, chain or pulley. Such power systems can
adversely affect the distribution of mass and are also
aesthetically displeasing.
SUMMARY
[0006] In one aspect, a powered skateboard may comprise a
skateboard deck. The skateboard deck may comprise a bottom portion.
The bottom portion may have truck mounting portions configured to
facilitate engagement with one or more skateboard trucks. The
skateboard deck may comprise a top portion. The top portion may
have an upper surface. The upper surface may be configured to
support a rider of the powered skateboard. The skateboard deck may
have a cavity. The cavity may be disposed between the bottom
portion and the top portion of the skateboard deck. The cavity may
be adapted to store one or more components of the powered
skateboard.
[0007] In another aspect, a method of making a deck for a powered
skateboard is provided. The method for making a deck of a powered
skateboard may include providing a first mold for a bottom portion
of the skateboard deck. The first mold may provide truck mounting
portions. The truck mounting portions may be configured to allow
the bottom portion of the skateboard deck to facilitate engagement
with one or more skateboard trucks. A second mold may be provided
for a top portion of the skateboard deck. The second mold may be
configured to cause the top portion of the skateboard deck to have
an upper surface to support a rider of the skateboard. The first
mold may be used to create the bottom portion of the skateboard
deck from a moldable material. The second mold may be used to
create the top portion of the skateboard deck from the moldable
material. The first mold and the second mold may be configured to
form a cavity between the bottom portion and the top portion of the
skateboard deck when the bottom portion and the top portion are
coupled together.
[0008] The top portion and the bottom portion of the skateboard
deck may be coupled together by one or more of sonically securing,
using screws, using an adhesive, and/or other coupling methods.
[0009] In another aspect, a method of making a deck for a powered
skateboard is provided. The method may comprise providing a mold
for a skateboard deck having an inner surface. The inner surface
may be configured to facilitate molding of a skateboard deck. The
skateboard deck may include a top portion adapted to support a
rider of the powered skateboard. The skateboard deck may include a
bottom portion having truck mounting portions configured to
facilitate engagement with one or more skateboard trucks. The
skateboard deck may include a cavity between the top portion and
the bottom portion of the skateboard deck.
[0010] The method of making a deck for a powered skateboard may
comprise introducing a moldable material into the mold for the
skateboard deck. The moldable material may be caused to coat the
inner surface of the skateboard deck. An inflatable bladder may be
introduced into the mold for the skateboard deck. The inflatable
bladder may be inflated inside the mold to cause the moldable
material to be pressed against the inner surface of the mold and
take the shape of the inner surface of the mold.
[0011] The method of making a deck for a powered skateboard may
optionally include forming an aperture in the top portion of the
skateboard deck.
[0012] In some variations one or more of the following features can
optionally be included in any feasible combination. The top portion
of the skateboard deck may include an aperture. The aperture may be
configured to facilitate access to the cavity between the top
portion and the bottom portion of the skateboard deck. The lid may
be configured to cover the aperture and provide support to a rider
of the powered skateboard. The lid may be configured to be screwed
in place to cover the aperture and provide support to the rider.
The lid may be configured to attach to the top portion of the
skateboard deck via a hinge. The top portion of the skateboard deck
may comprise slots to engage with the lid, such that the lid may
slide into the slots and cover the cavity of the skateboard deck
and support the rider.
[0013] The top portion of the skateboard deck may comprise multiple
apertures. One aperture may be configured to facilitate access to
components of the powered skateboard that may be regularly removed.
Such regularly removed components may include a fuel source for the
powered deck and/or a container for the fuel source of the powered
deck. Another aperture may be configured to facilitate access to
components of the skateboard deck that are not regularly removed.
Such components not regularly removed may be control systems for
controlling the powered skateboard.
[0014] The skateboard deck may include one or more conduits. The
one or more conduits may be configured to facilitate connections
between the power source and the motive source for the skateboard.
The one or more conduits may be configured to facilitate
connections between an electrical power source disposed in the
cavity of the skateboard deck and one or more electric motors. The
one or more conduits may be configured to facilitate connections
between an electrical power source and LED lighting, camera(s),
LIDAR systems, or the like.
[0015] The components stored in the cavity between the top portion
and the bottom portion may include a receiver. The received may be
adapted to receive instructions from a user to control the
electronic skateboard. Instructions may be received from a
transmitter.
[0016] The skateboard deck may include a port aperture. The port
aperture may be configured to secure an electronic port into the
skateboard deck. The electronic port may be one or more of a USB
port, a FireWire port, and/or other electronic port. The electronic
port may be configured to facilitate communications between an
external device and one or more components of the powered
skateboard. The electronic port may be configured to facilitate
transfer of electrical energy to one or more components of the
powered skateboard. The electronic port may be configured to
facilitate transfer of electrical energy from one or more
components of the powered skateboard to an external device.
[0017] The top portion of the skateboard deck may be secured to the
bottom portion of the skateboard deck. The top portion of the
skateboard deck may be secured to the bottom portion of the
skateboard deck by one or more of screws, adhesive, welding,
mechanically fastening, and/or other securing mechanism. The top
portion of the skateboard deck may be contiguous with the bottom
portion of the skateboard deck. The skateboard deck may have a
monocoque structure.
[0018] The skateboard deck may comprise injection molded plastic.
The skateboard deck may comprise carbon fiber. The skateboard deck
may comprise forged carbon fiber. The skateboard deck may comprise
pre-preg carbon fiber. The skateboard deck may comprise wood. The
skateboard deck may comprise of one or more of plastic, wood,
carbon fiber, pre-preg carbon fiber, or the like.
[0019] The powered skateboard may be electrically powered. The one
or more components stored in the cavity between the top portion and
the bottom portion may include a power source for providing
electric power to one or more electric motors of the
electrically-powered skateboard. The power source may include a
battery pack.
[0020] A battery pack contemplated by the current subject matter
may be interchangeable. The battery pack contemplated by the
current subject matter may have a width suitable to fit within the
cavity of the skateboard deck for the presently disclosed powered
skateboard. The battery pack contemplated by the current subject
matter may have a length suitable to fit between the front and back
truck mounting portions of the skateboard deck. The battery pack
contemplated may be configured to be removable from the skateboard
deck. For example, when a battery pack has been depleted it may be
exchanged for a charged battery pack. The battery pack may have
multiple cells. The battery pack may include a casing. The casing
may have a shape and/or dimensions adapted to secure the battery
pack within one or more cavities of the skateboard deck.
[0021] The current subject matter contemplates multiple different
battery packs having different amounts of electrical charge stored
in them The multiple different battery packs may comprise an outer
case having substantially similar dimensions. The multiple
different battery packs having outer cases having substantially
similar dimensions may facilitate the multiple different battery
packs to be secured within the cavity of the skateboard deck.
[0022] Implementations of the current subject matter can provide
one or more advantages. For example, providing a streamlined
skateboard deck for a powered skateboard. The current subject
matter may also provide an aesthetically pleasing skateboard deck
for a powered skateboard. Implementations of the current subject
matter can also provide the advantage of continued use of the
powered skateboard. Riders are no longer limited to the power of a
single battery pack.
[0023] The details of one or more variations of the subject matter
described herein are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the
description below. Other features and advantages of the subject
matter described herein will be apparent from the description and
drawings, and from the claims. Certain features of the currently
disclosed subject matter are described for illustrative purposes
only and it should be readily understood that such features are not
intended to be limiting. The claims that follow this disclosure are
intended to define the scope of the protected subject matter.
DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0024] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and
constitute a part of this specification, show certain aspects of
the subject matter disclosed herein and, together with the
description, help explain some of the principles associated with
the disclosed implementations. In the drawings:
[0025] FIG. 1 is a schematic view of various elements of the
skateboard, having one or more features consistent with
implementations of the current subject matter;
[0026] FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of an example of a
powered wheel and a portion of the skateboard, having one or more
elements consistent with the current subject matter;
[0027] FIG. 3A is a schematic view of a powered wheel, having one
or more features consistent with implementations of the current
subject matter;
[0028] FIG. 3B is an illustration of an electric motor disposed on
an axle of a skateboard truck, the electric motor having one or
more elements consistent with the current subject matter;
[0029] FIG. 3C is an end view of a powered wheel disposed on the
axle of a skateboard truck, having one or more elements consistent
with the current subject matter;
[0030] FIG. 4A is a schematic perspective view of a powered wheel,
having one or more features consistent with implementations of the
current subject matter;
[0031] FIG. 4B is a schematic side view of the powered wheel
illustrated in FIG. 4A, having one or more features consistent with
implementations of the current subject matter;
[0032] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a commercial embodiment of
the powered wheel, having one or more features consistent with
implementations of the current subject matter;
[0033] FIG. 6 is a schematic view of an electric circuit for
powering an electric motor, having one or more elements consistent
with the current subject matter;
[0034] FIG. 7 is an illustration of a powered wheel having a
planetary gear system having one or more elements consistent with
the current subject matter;
[0035] FIG. 8 is a schematic view of various elements of the
skateboard deck, having one or more features consistent with
implementations of the current subject matter;
[0036] FIG. 9 is a schematic view of various elements of a powered
skateboard, having one or more features consistent with
implementations of the current subject matter;
[0037] FIG. 10 is a schematic view of various elements of the
powered skateboard, having one or more features consistent with
implementations of the current subject matter;
[0038] FIG. 11 illustrates a battery pack having one or more
elements consistent with the current subject matter;
[0039] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of
a system for controlling a motor of a powered skateboard, having
one or more elements consistent with the current subject
matter;
[0040] FIG. 13A is a schematic diagram of a powered skateboard,
having one or more elements consistent with the current subject
matter;
[0041] FIG. 13B is a schematic diagram of a front-end of a powered
skateboard, having one or more elements consistent with the current
subject matter;
[0042] FIG. 14 is an illustration of an object avoidance system for
a powered skateboard, in accordance with one or more elements of
the current subject matter;
[0043] FIGS. 15A and 15B illustrate charging systems and,
respectively, for a powered skateboard in accordance with one or
more elements of the current subject matter;
[0044] FIG. 16A illustrates an example of the powered skateboard in
the manual position; and
[0045] FIG. 16B is an illustration of the powered skateboard after
an accidental manual has been corrected.
[0046] When practical, similar reference numbers denote similar
structures, features, or elements.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0047] FIG. 1 is a schematic view of various elements of the
skateboard 100, having one or more features consistent with
implementations of the current subject matter. The skateboard 100
can comprise a skateboard deck 102. The skateboard deck 102 may
comprise a bottom portion 104. The bottom portion 104 may have
truck-mounting portions 106 configured to facilitate engagement
with one or more skateboard trucks 108. The skateboard deck 102 may
comprise a top portion 110. The top portion 110 may have an upper
surface 112. The upper surface 112 may be configured to support a
rider of the skateboard 100.
[0048] The one or more skateboard trucks 108 can be configured to
support one or more wheels 114 and 116. In some variations, the
skateboard trucks 108 may be configured to support unpowered wheels
114 and/or powered wheels 116. The powered wheels 116 can be
disposed on both front and rear trucks 108 of the skateboard 100,
or can be disposed on just one of the trucks 108. The powered
wheels 116 can be disposed on one side or on both sides of the
truck(s) 108. The powered wheels 116 can be disposed on the truck
108 that is located on the rear portion of the skateboard 100.
[0049] FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of an example of a
powered wheel 116 and a portion of the skateboard 100, having one
or more elements consistent with the current subject matter. The
powered wheel 116 can include an electric motor disposed within the
powered wheel 116. The electric motor can include a rotor 117 and a
stator 119. The rotor 117 and the stator 119 can be engaged with
the axle 118 of the skateboard truck 108. The electric motor can be
a three-phase electric motor. The electric motor can be a
five-phase electric motor. The electric motor can be an n-phase
electric motor. The powered wheel 116 can be attached to a truck
108 on a truck axle 118. The truck axle 118 can include a flange
120. The flange 120 can be configured to prohibit inward movement
of the powered wheel 116. The flange can include an outer rim 122.
The outer rim 122 can be configured to support an internal surface
124 of the powered wheel 116. The outer rim 122 providing support
for the powered wheel 116, reducing strain on the internal
components of the powered wheel 116 and the axle 118. The axle 118
can include an engagement portion 126. The engagement portion 126
can be configured to provide a surface on which the force of the
powered wheel 116 can work against. Without having an engagement
portion 126, the powered wheel 116 would spin about the axle 118
and provide little motive force. The axle 118 can include a
retaining slot 128, configured to facilitate retaining the powered
wheel 116 on the axle 118.
[0050] The powered wheel 116 can include a first bearing 130. The
first bearing 130 can be configured to engage with the flange 120.
The first bearing 130 can have an inner race 132 configured to
engage with the surface 122 of the flange 120. The first bearing
130 can have an outer race 134 configured to engage with the inner
surface 124 of a wheel 134. The inner race 132 and outer race 134
of the first bearing 130 can be rotationally engaged. Rotational
capabilities of the first bearing 130 can be facilitated through
the use of ball bearings, greased channels, oil channels and/or
other friction reducing mechanisms between the inner race 132 and
the outer race 134. In this manner, the first bearing 130 can be
configured to facilitate rotation of the powered wheel 116 about
the axle 118.
[0051] In some variations, the first bearing 130 can be disposed
within a first rotor side 138. The first rotor side 138 can include
an inner surface 140. The first rotor side 138 can comprise a
center bore 140 fixedly attached to the outer race 134 of the first
bearing 130. The first rotor side 138 can be a solid rotor. The
first rotor side 138 can further comprise hollows bored into the
inside perimeter. In some variations, the first rotor side 138 can
include between 6 and 20 hollows bored into the inside perimeter.
The hollows can be configured to provide airflow, reduced weight,
and structural integrity. The hollows can be covered to prevent
ingress of foreign bodies into the rotor. The first rotor side 138
can be visible when the powered wheel 116 is assembled. The second
rotor side 144 can include a single large bore in its center
adapted to fixedly attach to the outer race 156 of the second
bearing 154 disposed in the center of the second rotor side
144.
[0052] The outer race 134 of the first bearing 130 can be
configured to engage with the inner surface 140 of the first rotor
side 138. In some variations, the first bearing 130 can have an
inner diameter of between 5 mm and 10 mm The first bearing 130 can
have an outer diameter between 15 mm and 30 mm The first bearing
130 can have a thickness between 5 mm and 10 mm One of ordinary
skill in the art will understand and appreciate that the size of
the bearing is proportionate to the size of the powered wheel 116.
Consequently, the presently described subject matter contemplates
different sizes of first bearing 130, just as it contemplates
different sizes of powered wheels 116.
[0053] The powered wheel 116 can include a rotor can 142. The rotor
can 142 can comprise a material having one or more magnetic
properties. The rotor can 142 can be comprised of a magnetically
permeable material. The rotor can 142 can be configured to cause
all or most of the magnetic field to be contained within the rotor
117. The rotor can 142 can comprise a single piece of steel alloy.
The rotor can 142 can be configured to engage with at least a
portion of a first rotor side 138 and a second rotor side 144. The
first rotor side 138 and the second rotor side 144 can comprise one
or more teeth 146. The teeth 146 can be configured to receive and
support magnets 148. The teeth 146 can be configured to support the
magnets 148 at specific locations. Magnets 148 can be permanent
magnets. The first rotor side 138 and the second rotor side 144 can
include flanges between 1 mm and 2 mm in length extending inward.
In the preferred embodiment, the first rotor side 138 and the
second rotor side 144 can be made of aluminum. In an alternative
embodiment, the first rotor side 138 and the second rotor side 144
can be identical.
[0054] The magnets 148 can be arranged into a magnet array. Between
10 and 28 rectangular magnets 148 can be positioned within the
rotor can 142. The magnets 148 can be neodymium magnets. The
magnets 148 can be disposed in a circular array forming a ring. The
magnets 148 can be attached to the inside of the rotor can 142 by
an adhesive such as epoxy. The outer ends of the magnets 148 can
lock into the teeth, or pockets 146 of the first rotor side 138 and
the second rotor side 144.
[0055] The stator 119 can be configured to be disposed within the
rotor 117. The stator 119 can be formed of a permanent magnet. The
stator 119 can be formed of an electromagnet. The stator 119 can be
formed of laminated steel. The stator 119 can comprise stator slots
150 and stator teeth 152. The stator slots 150 and stator teeth 152
can be disposed about the periphery of the stator 119. In some
variations, the stator 119 can comprise a plurality of steel sheets
stacked together in a circular array. The steel sheets can be
fixedly attached to the axle 118. The stacks of steel sheets can
form stator teeth 152. The stator slots 150 and stator teeth 152
can be configured to carry electric wire forming windings (not
shown). The windings can be three-phase, five-phase, or n-phase
windings. The windings can be wound copper wire. The windings can
be a solid metal. The windings can be some other suitable material.
The windings can be configured to carry current. A controller can
be configured to cause the current to pass through successive
phases of the electric motor to cause the rotor 117 to rotate about
the stator 119.
[0056] A second bearing 154 can be configured to be disposed
between the axle 118 and the inner surface of the stator 117. The
second bearing 154 is rotationally attached to the axle 118 of the
skateboard truck 108 on its inner race 158 and allows the powered
wheel 116 to spin on the axle 118 by reducing rotational friction.
The second bearing 154 is positioned within the inside of the
stator 119 and allows the stator to spin around the outer race 156
of the second bearing 154. One of ordinary skill in the art will
appreciate and understand that the size of the second bearing 154
depends on the size of the powered wheel 116 and/or the axle 118.
The present disclosure contemplates different sizes of powered
wheels 116 and axles 118. Consequently, the present disclosure
contemplates different sizes of second bearing 154. The first
bearing 130 and the second bearing 154 can be configured to
facilitate rotation of the rotor 117 about the stator 119 that is
fixedly engaged to the axle 118. The stator 119 can be fixedly
engaged to the axle 118 by having an internal surface 152 with a
shape that compliments the shape of the axle 118. The stator 119
can be held in place by a stator pin, mechanical locking groove, a
circlip, or the like. The shape of the internal surface 152 can
include a flat portion that compliments with the flat portion 126
of the axle 118.
[0057] The powered wheel 116 can comprise a wheel 136 configured to
fit over the rotor 117. The wheel 136 can be glued or molded around
the rotor 117. The wheel 136 can include an internal structure
facilitating the engagement of the wheel 136 with the rotor 142.
The wheel 126 can be press-fit onto the rotor 142. In some
variations, the wheel 136 may be thermo cooled. The wheel 136 can
serve as a tire for the powered wheel 116. The wheel 136 can be
configured to mechanically engage with the rotor 117. The wheel 136
can be composed of polyurethane. The wheel 136 can be composed of
rubber or any similar compound or material used for similar
purposes.
[0058] In some variations, the powered wheel 116 can include wheel
sizes ranging from 25 mm to 100 mm in diameter and from 25 mm to
100 mm in width.
[0059] One or more Hall effect sensors 160 can be positioned
between the teeth 152 of the stator 119. The Hall effect sensor(s)
160 can be positioned at specific locations. The Hall effect
sensor(s) 160 can be attached between the stator teeth of the
stator 119 with adhesive. In some variations, the Hall effect
sensor(s) 160 can be attached to a printed circuit board disposed
between the teeth of stator teeth. The Hall effect sensor(s) 160
can be attached to the stator 119 mechanically. In some variations,
the teeth 152 of the stator 119 can include pockets configured to
receive the Hall effect sensor(s) 160. The hall effect sensor(s)
160 can be configured to facilitate a smooth start of the electric
motor from a stationary position.
[0060] The Hall effect sensor(s) 160 can function by operating as a
transducer and changing the amount of voltage it releases in
relation to a magnetic field to achieve different mechanical
effects. The Hall effect sensor(s) 160 can be configured to provide
information about the position of the rotor to a controller (see
FIG. 3A). With this information, the controller can more accurately
control the flow of current to the various phases of the electric
motor.
[0061] Wiring to connect the windings about the stator teeth 152 to
a power source and/or a controller can be disposed along the flat
portion 126 of the axle 118. The wiring can be run through an
aperture 162 through the flange 120 of the axle 118.
[0062] FIG. 3A is a schematic view of a powered wheel 300, having
one or more features consistent with implementations of the current
subject matter. The powered wheel 300 can be configured to attach
to any type of skateboard truck. The powered wheel 300 can be
configured to attach to a specialized skateboard truck. The
skateboard truck 302 can include a skateboard axle 304. The powered
wheel 300 can comprise a bearing 306. The bearing 306 can be
similar to bearing 130 illustrated in FIG. 2. An inner race 308 of
the bearing 306 can be configured to engage with at least a portion
310 of the axle 304 of the skateboard truck 302. An outer race 312
of the bearing 306 can be configured to engage with an inner
surface 314 of an inner motor support 316. Then inner motor support
316 can be a rotor side.
[0063] The powered wheel 300 can include a position encoder 318.
The position encoder can be disposed between the inner motor
support 316 and a stator 320. The stator 320 can be similar to
stator 119 illustrated in FIG. 2. The position encoder 318 can be a
mechanical encoder, an optical encoder, a magnetic encoder, a
capacitive encoder and/or another type of encoder. The encoder 318
can be configured to convert the angular position of motion of the
powered wheel 300 relative to the axle 304 to an analog or digital
code. The analog or digital code can be used by a microprocessor
(such as microprocessor 604 of FIG. 6) to determine the orientation
of the stator 320 relative to the known position of the encoder
318. The position encoder 318 can include a hall effect sensor. The
position encoder 318 can include a printed circuit board having one
or more electrical components included thereon.
[0064] The powered wheel 300 can include a rotor can 322. The rotor
can 322 can include a plurality of magnets attached to the inner
surface 324 of the rotor can 322. The rotor can 322 can be a
magnetic flux ring. The magnetic flux ring can be configured to
provide the same or similar functionality to having a plurality of
magnets attached to the inner surface 324 of the rotor can 322.
[0065] The powered wheel 300 can include an outer motor support
326. The outer motor support 326 can be a rotor side. The outer
motor support 326 can include a flange 328 adapted to engage with
an inner surface 324 of the rotor can 322. The inner motor support
316 can include a flange 330 adapted to engage with the inner
surface 324 of the rotor can 322 opposite the outer motor support
326.
[0066] The powered wheel 300 can include an outer bearing 332. The
outer bearing 332 can include an outer race 334 and an inner race
338. The outer race 334 can be configured to engage with an inner
surface 336 of the outer motor support 326. The inner race 338 of
the outer bearing 332 can be configured to engage with at least a
portion 340 of the axle 304 of the skateboard truck 302. The inner
bearing 306 and the outer bearing 332 can be configured to
facilitate rotation of the inner motor support 316, stator 320,
rotor can 322 and outer motor support 326 about the axle 304.
[0067] The powered wheel 300 can include a wheel 342. The wheel 342
can be comprised of plastic. Plastic suitable for the wheel 342 can
include a polyurethane. The material suitable for the wheel 342 can
be thermosetting material, a thermoplastic material, or a
combination thereof. The material suitable for the wheel 342 can be
a compound material. Additive materials can be added to the
compound used to fabricate the wheel 342 to provide different
properties. Different heat treatments and molding processes can be
employed when making the wheel 342 to provide wheels 342 with
different properties.
[0068] An inner surface 344 of the wheel 342 can be configured to
engage with an outer surface 346 of the rotor can 322. In some
variations, the outer surface 346 of the rotor can 322 and the
inner surface 344 of the wheel 342 can include complimentary
engagement portions. The engagement portions prohibiting the rotor
can 322 from rotating within the wheel 342 and to facilitate
transfer of torque from the rotor can 322 to the wheel 342.
[0069] A retaining ring 348 can be used to hold the wheel 342 onto
the motor. The retaining ring 348 can include one or more fastener
holes 350. The one or more fastener holes 350 can be aligned with
one or more fastener holes 352 on the outer motor support 326. The
retaining ring 348 can be configured to fit within a recess 354 of
the wheel 342. Fasteners 356 can be used to secure the retaining
ring 348 to the outer motor support 326.
[0070] A retaining bolt 358 can be configured to screw onto a
thread portion 360 of the axle 304. The retaining bolt 358 can be
configured to retain the outer bearing 332 on the axle 304.
[0071] FIG. 3B is an illustration of an electric motor 400 disposed
on an axle of a skateboard truck 302, the electric motor having one
or more elements consistent with the current subject matter. The
inner motor support 316 can include a flange 362 configured to
engage with an inner side 364 of the wheel 342. In some variations,
an electric motor 400 can be provided that is preassembled as the
electric motor 400. The electric motor can be disposed onto the
axle of the skateboard truck 302. A wheel 342 can be positioned
over the motor 400 to engage with the outer surface 346 of the
rotor can 322. The retaining ring 348 can be configured to retain
the wheel 342 onto the electric motor 400. The retaining nut 358
can be configured to retain the electric motor 400 on the axle of
the skateboard truck 302.
[0072] FIG. 3C is an end view of a powered wheel 116 disposed on
the axle 304 of a skateboard truck 302.
[0073] FIG. 4A is a schematic perspective view of a powered wheel
500, having one or more features consistent with implementations of
the current subject matter. FIG. 4B is a schematic side view of the
powered wheel 500. The powered wheel 500 is similar in some aspects
to the powered wheel 300 illustrated in FIG. 3A. The powered wheel
500 can be configured to attach to a skateboard truck 502. The
skateboard truck 502 can be a generic skateboard truck. The
skateboard truck 502 can be a specialty skateboard truck configured
to engage with the powered wheel 500. The skateboard truck 502 can
include a skateboard axle 504.
[0074] The powered wheel can include a hub 570. The hub 570 can
include a hollow through-portion 572. The hollow through-portion
572 can be configured to receive the axle 504 of the truck 502. The
hub 570 can be have a length to facilitate a threaded portion 560
of the axle 504 to extend beyond the end 574 of the hub 570. The
hub 570 can include a rotational hindering portion 576. The
rotational hindering portion 576 can include a flattened portion.
The rotational hindering portion 576 of the hub 570 can be
configured to engage with a rotational hindering portion 578
engaged with the truck 502. The rotational hindering portion 576 of
the hub 570 and the rotational hindering portion 578 of the truck
502 can have complementary shapes facilitating engagement of the
two rotational hindering portions.
[0075] The truck 502 can include a conduit 580. The conduit can be
configured to house electrical wiring. The electrical wiring can be
disposed between a power source for the powered wheel 500 and the
powered wheel 500. The conduit 580 can include a conduit cover 582.
In some variations, the conduit cover 582 can include the
rotational hindering portion 578 of the truck 502.
[0076] The hub 570 can include a channel 584. The channel 584 can
be configured to house electrical wiring to at least the stator 520
of the powered wheel 500.
[0077] The powered wheel 500 can comprise a bearing 506. The
bearing 506 can be similar to bearing 306 illustrated in FIG. 3A.
An inner race 508 of the bearing 506 can be configured to engage
with at least a portion of the hub 570. An outer race 512 of the
bearing 506 can be configured to engage with an inner surface 514
of an inner motor support 516. Then inner motor support 516 can be
similar to the inner motor support 316 in FIG. 3A. A clip 586 can
be employed to secure the bearing 506 into the inner motor support
516. The clip 586 can be configured to engage with a lateral groove
588 of the hub 570. The lateral groove 588 can circumvent the hub
570. The clip 586, engaged with the lateral groove 588 can prevent
components of the powered wheel 500 from moving too far inward
toward the truck 502.
[0078] The powered wheel can include a position encoder 518. The
position encoder 518 can be similar to position encoder 318 of FIG.
3A. The position encoder 518 can include a PCB. The PCB can include
one or more electrical components. The one or more electrical
components can include at least one Hall effect sensor. The
position encoder 518 can be disposed adjacent the stator 520. The
stator 520 can be similar to stator 320 illustrated in FIG. 3A.
[0079] A rotor can 522 can be provided to surround the stator 520.
The rotor can 522 can include a plurality of magnets attached to
the inner surface 524 of the rotor can 522. The rotor can 522 can
be a magnetic flux ring. The magnetic flux ring can be configured
to provide the same or similar functionality to having a plurality
of magnets attached to the inner surface 524 of the rotor can
522.
[0080] The powered wheel 500 can include an outer motor support
526. The outer motor support 526 can be similar to the outer motor
support 326 of FIG. 3A. The outer motor support 526 can include a
flange 528 adapted to engage with an inner surface 524 of the rotor
can 522. The inner motor support 516 can include a flange 530
adapted to engage with the inner surface 524 of the rotor can 522
opposite the outer motor support 526.
[0081] The powered wheel 500 can include an outer bearing 532. The
outer bearing 532 can include an outer race 534. The outer race 534
can be configured to engage with an inner surface 536 of the outer
motor support 526. The inner race (not shown) of the outer bearing
532 can be configured to engage with at least a portion of the hub
570. The inner bearing 506 and the outer bearing 532 can be
configured to facilitate rotation of the inner motor support 516,
stator 520, rotor can 522 and outer motor support 526 about the hub
570.
[0082] The powered wheel 500 can include an outer clip 590. The
outer clip 590 can be configured to inhibit the components of the
powered wheel 500 from moving outward. The outer clip 590 can be
configured to retain the components of the powered wheel 500 on the
hub 570. The outer clip 590 can be configured to engage with an
outer lateral groove 592. The outer lateral groove 592 can
circumvent the hub 570.
[0083] The powered wheel 500 can include a wheel 542. The wheel 542
can be similar to wheel 342 illustrated in FIG. 3A.
[0084] The powered wheel 500 can include a retaining ring 548. The
retaining ring 548 can be configured to hold the wheel 542 onto the
motor. The retaining ring 548 can include one or more fastener
holes 550. The one or more fastener holes 550 can be aligned with
one or more fastener holes on the outer motor support 526. The
retaining ring 548 can be configured to fit within a recess of the
wheel 542. Fasteners 556 can be used to secure the retaining ring
548 to the outer motor support 526.
[0085] The powered wheel 500 can include a retaining bolt 558. The
retaining bolt 558 can be configured to screw onto a threaded
portion 560 of the axle 504. The retaining bolt 558 can be
configured to retain the outer bearing 532 on the axle 504. In some
variations, the outer clip 590 can be integrated with the retaining
bolt 558, the retaining ring 548, a combination thereof, or the
like.
[0086] In some variations, the hub 570 may include an axle binding
device. The axle binding device configured to bind the hub 570 onto
the axle 504. The retaining bolt 558 can be configured to retain
the powered wheel 500 onto the hub 570.
[0087] FIG. 5 is an illustration of a commercial embodiment of a
powered wheel 500, having one or more features consistent with the
current subject matter. The powered wheel 500 may be supplied as a
powered wheel unit 596. The powered wheel 500 may be supplied with
the motor unit 598, the wheel 542, the retaining ring 548,
fasteners 556 and retaining bolt 558 fully assembled. In some
variations, the wheel 542 may be supplied separately, or
replacement wheels 542 may be supplied. The retaining ring 548 and
fasteners 556 can be configured to facilitate easy replacement of
the wheel 542.
[0088] While the presently described powered wheels 100, 300 and
500 are illustrated and discussed in relation to being provided for
a skateboard, the present disclosure contemplates that the powered
wheels can be provided for any item having an axle. For example,
the presently described powered wheels can be provided for luggage,
bicycles, shopping carts, wheel chairs, and the like. The relative
size of the components of the presently described powered wheels
can be modified to fit the intended purpose of the powered wheel
and the medium on which the powered wheel is intended to be
disposed.
[0089] FIG. 6 is a schematic view of an electric circuit 600 for
powering an electric motor 602, having one or more elements
consistent with the current subject matter. The electric motor 602
illustrated in FIG. 6 is a representation only. The configuration
of the stator and the rotor are not intended to be limiting. The
electric motor 602 may be a three-phase motor, as shown.
[0090] The electric motor 602 may be controlled by one or more
microprocessors 604. The microprocessor(s) may be configured to
control the electric motor 602 through an interference circuit 606.
The electric motor 602 may include one or more hall sensors 608.
The hall sensor(s) 608 can be configured to vary its output voltage
based on the magnetic field experienced by the hall sensor(s) 608.
As the rotor 610 of the electric motor rotates about the stator
612, the magnetic field at the hall sensor(s) 608 will change. The
change in the magnetic field at the hall sensor(s) 608 can be
measured such that the output voltage of the hall sensor(s) 308 can
be mapped to the position of the stator teeth 614. Consequently,
the positions of the stator teeth associated with different phases
of an n-phase electric motor 602 can be known based on the output
voltage of the hall sensor(s) 608. The microprocessor 604 can be
configured to receive an indication of the output voltage of the
hall sensor(s) 608 and control the current provided to the
different phases of the n-phase motor 602.
[0091] Each phase of the n-phase motor can be associated with a
rectifier 616a, 616b and 616c. While semiconductor rectifiers are
illustrated, the current subject matter contemplates any type of
rectifier, including vacuum tube diodes, mercury-arc valves, copper
and selenium oxide rectifiers, semiconductor diodes,
silicon-controlled rectifiers and other silicon-based semiconductor
switches.
[0092] The electric motor 602 can be powered by a power supply 618.
The power supply 618 can also be configured to provide power to the
microprocessor(s) 604. The microprocessor(s) 604 can be in direct
or indirect electronic communication with a transceiver 620. The
transceiver 620 can be configured to transmit and/or receive
signals from one or more input devices.
[0093] FIG. 7 is an illustration of a powered wheel 700 having a
planetary gear system 702 having one or more elements consistent
with the current subject matter. The planetary gear system 702 can
be disposed within the powered wheel 700. The planetary gear system
702 can include a sun gear 704. A ring gear 706 can be disposed
within an inner circumference of the tire 708 of the powered wheel
700. Planetary gears 710 can be disposed between the sun gear 704
and the ring gear 706. The planetary gear system 702 can be
configured to engage successive gear sets in response to the motor
reaching a predefined revolution rate. The various gear sets.
[0094] The powered wheel 700 can include an inner rotor 712
disposed inward of a stator, such as stator 119. The powered wheel
700 can include an outer rotor 714 disposed outward of the
planetary gear system 702. The outer rotor 714 can be configured to
fit within an inner diameter of the tire 708. The powered wheel can
include a retaining ring 716 or retaining plate. The retaining ring
716 can be configured to be secured to the tire 708. The retaining
ring 716 can be retained to the tire 708 with screws 718.
[0095] FIG. 8 is a schematic view of various elements of the
skateboard deck 102, having one or more features consistent with
implementations of the current subject matter. The skateboard deck
102 may comprise a bottom portion 104. The bottom portion 104 may
have truck mounting portions 106 configured to facilitate
engagement with one or more skateboard trucks 108 (as shown in FIG.
1).
[0096] The skateboard truck(s) 108 can be made from aluminum. The
skateboard truck(s) 108 can comprise an axle 118 that extends
horizontally from one wheel to the other wheel. The skateboard
truck(s) 108 can comprise multiple axles that extend outward from
the skateboard truck(s) 108 on either side of the skateboard
truck(s) 108. Each skateboard truck can be configured to have each
wheel positioned between about 120 mm and about 180 mm apart. The
skateboard truck(s) 108 can be mechanically attached to the
skateboard by bolts.
[0097] The skateboard deck 102 may comprise a top portion 110. The
top portion 110 may have an upper surface 112. The upper surface
112 may be configured to support a rider of the powered skateboard
100. The skateboard deck 102 may have a cavity 170. The cavity 170
may be disposed between the bottom portion 104 and the top portion
110 of the skateboard deck 102. The cavity 170 may be adapted to
store one or more components of the powered skateboard 100.
[0098] The top portion 110 of the skateboard deck 102 may include
an aperture 172. The aperture 172 may be configured to facilitate
access to the cavity 170 between the top portion 110 and the bottom
portion 104 of the skateboard deck 102.
[0099] The bottom portion 104 of the skateboard deck 102 may
include support structures. The top portion 110 of the skateboard
102 may include support structures 174. The support structures may
be configured to provide support for the top portion 110 of the
skateboard deck 102 to facilitate the top portion 110 to support a
rider of the powered skateboard 100. The support structure can be
configured as a honeycomb structure. The support structure can
include one or more lateral and/or longitudinal support
structures.
[0100] In some variations of the current subject matter, the top
portion 110 of the skateboard deck 102 may comprise multiple
apertures 172, 176. One aperture 172 may be configured to
facilitate access to components of the powered skateboard 100 that
may be regularly removed. Such regularly removed components may
include a fuel source for the powered skateboard 100 and/or a
container for the fuel source of the powered skateboard
[0101] 100. Another aperture 176 may be configured to facilitate
access to components of the powered skateboard 100 that are not
regularly removed. Such components not regularly removed may be
control systems for controlling the powered skateboard.
[0102] The components may include a transceiver 620 (as shown in
FIG. 6) configured to communicate with one or more mobile devices.
The transceiver 620 may be one or more of a WiFi transceiver, a
Bluetooth transceiver, a Near-Field-Communication transceiver, a
sub-gigahertz transceiver, and/or any other wireless communication
transceiver. The transceiver 620 may be in electronic communication
with the control system for the powered skateboard. The control
system may be configured to modify one or more parameters of the
powered skateboard.
[0103] A lid 178 can be provided for the aperture 172. The lid 178
can be configured to cover the aperture 172 and provide support to
a rider of the powered skateboard 100. The lid 178 can be
configured to be screwed in place to cover the aperture 172 and
provide support to the rider. The lid 178 can be configured to
attach to the top portion 110 of the skateboard deck 102 via a
hinge, a latch, a connector, or any other connection mechanism. The
top portion 110 of the skateboard deck 102 can comprise slots to
engage with the lid 178, such that the lid 178 can slide into the
slots and cover the aperture 172 and support the rider. The lid 178
may be removably engaged with the top portion 110 of the skateboard
deck 102.
[0104] Having the lid 172 removably engaged with the top portion
110 of the skateboard deck 102 can facilitate a user of the powered
skateboard to access one or more components of the powered
skateboard stored in the cavity 170. For example, the powered
skateboard may be electrically powered. The cavity 170 can be
configured to store one or more battery packs to provide electrical
power to one or more electric motors of the powered skateboard.
Having the lid 178 removably engaged with the top portion 110 of
the skateboard deck 102 can facilitate a user to exchange a spent
battery pack with a charged battery pack. A user may, therefore, be
able to continue using the powered skateboard.
[0105] In variations where the skateboard deck 102 includes
multiple apertures 172, 176, the aperture 176 for providing access
to non-regularly removed components of the powered skateboard 100
may be covered by a lid 180. The lid 180 for covering aperture 176
can be secured such that the lid 180 is not easily removed, and may
withstand a tumbling of the skateboard or any other shock. The lid
180 for covering aperture 176 can be secured to the top portion 110
of the skateboard deck 102 using screws, adhesive, and/or other
securing methods.
[0106] The skateboard deck 102 can include one or more conduits
182. The one or more conduits 182 may be configured to facilitate
connections between the power source and the motive source for the
powered skateboard 100. The one or more conduits 182 can be
configured to facilitate connections between an electrical power
source disposed in the cavity 170 of the skateboard deck 102 and
one or more electric motors disposed outside of the cavity 170 of
the skateboard deck 102.
[0107] The components stored in the cavity 170 between the top
portion 110 and the bottom portion 104 of the skateboard deck 102
may include a receiver, transmitter, and/or transceiver, herein
referred to as a transceiver. The transceiver may be adapted to
receive instructions from a user to control the powered skateboard
100. Instructions may be received from a transmitter. The
transmitter may include a hand-held transmitter (such as shown in
FIG. 12).
[0108] The skateboard deck 102 can include a port aperture 184. The
port aperture 184 can be configured to secure an electronic port
186 into the skateboard deck 102. The electronic port 186 can be
one or more of a USB port, a FireWire port, and/or other electronic
port. The electronic port 186 can be configured to facilitate
communications between an external device and one or more
components of the powered skateboard 100. The electronic port 186
can be configured to facilitate transfer of electrical energy to
one or more components of the powered skateboard 102. The
electronic port 186 may be configured to facilitate transfer of
electrical energy from one or more components of the powered
skateboard to an external device.
[0109] FIG. 9 is a schematic view of various elements of a powered
skateboard 100, having one or more features consistent with
implementations of the current subject matter. The top portion 110
of the skateboard deck 102 may be secured to the bottom portion 104
of the skateboard deck 102. The top portion 110 of the skateboard
deck 102 may be secured to the bottom portion 104 of the skateboard
deck 102 by one or more of screws, adhesive, welding, mechanically
fastening, and/or other securing mechanism. The top portion 110 of
the skateboard deck 102 may be contiguous with the bottom portion
104 of the skateboard deck 102. The skateboard deck 102 may have a
monocoque structure.
[0110] The skateboard deck 102 may comprise injection molded
plastic. The skateboard deck 102 may comprise thermoplastic. The
skateboard deck 102 may comprise carbon fiber. The skateboard deck
102 may comprise forged carbon fiber. The skateboard deck 102 may
comprise pre-preg carbon fiber.
[0111] The components of the skateboard deck 102 may have a modular
structure. The modular structure may have a polygonal structure.
The polygonal structure may be hexagonal or rectangular. The
polygonal structure may provide a lightweight structure while
maintain strength and stability of the components of the skateboard
deck 102.
[0112] FIG. 10 is a schematic view of various elements of the
powered skateboard 100, having one or more features consistent with
implementations of the current subject matter. The powered
skateboard 100 may be electrically powered. The one or more
components stored in the cavity 170 between the top portion 110 and
the bottom portion 104 can include a power source for providing
electric power to one or more electric motors of the
electrically-powered skateboard. The power source may include a
battery pack 190.
[0113] In some variations, the one or more components of the
powered skateboard 100 can be stored under the deck 102 of the
powered skateboard.
[0114] A battery pack 190 contemplated by the current subject
matter may be interchangeable. The battery pack 190 contemplated by
the current subject matter may have a width 192 suitable to fit
within the cavity 170 of the skateboard deck 102 for the presently
disclosed powered skateboard 100. The battery pack 190 contemplated
by the current subject matter may have a thickness 194 suitable to
fit within the cavity 170 of the skateboard deck 102 for the
presently disclosed powered skateboard 100. The battery pack 190
contemplated by the current subject matter may have a length 196
suitable to fit between the front 198 and back 200 truck mounting
portions of the skateboard deck 102. The battery pack 190
contemplated may be configured to be removable from the skateboard
deck 102. For example, when a battery pack has been depleted it may
be exchanged for a charged battery pack. The battery pack 190 may
be flexible to facilitate removing and/or exchanging the battery
pack 190 into the cavity 170 of the skateboard deck 102.
[0115] FIG. 11 illustrates a battery pack 190 having one or more
elements contemplated by the current subject matter. The battery
pack may have multiple cells. The battery pack 190 may include a
casing 204. The casing 204 may have a shape and/or dimensions
adapted to secure the battery pack 190 within one or more cavities
170 of the skateboard deck 102. The casing 204 may include a flange
206 encircling the battery pack 190. The flange 206 may be
configured to engage with complimentary receiving portions in the
cavity 170 of the skateboard deck 102. The flange 206 and
complimentary receiving portions may be configured to secure the
battery pack inside the cavity 170 of the skateboard deck 102. The
lid 178 may facilitate securing the battery pack 190 into the
cavity 170 of the skateboard deck 102.
[0116] The battery pack 190 can be a battery providing between 12
and 50 volts. The battery pack 190 can be comprised of any type of
battery. The battery pack 190 can comprise a Lithium Ion type
battery. The battery pack 190 can include blade or fin connectors.
The battery pack 190 can include connectors to electrically connect
the battery pack 190 to one or more other components of the powered
skateboard 100.
[0117] In some variations, equipped with an 8 ah battery, the
present embodiment is estimated to allow the presently described
powered skateboard to travel an average of 10 miles at mid
throttle, with a top speed estimated to be around 25 mph, which can
be reduced via the motor controller program. This is a non-limiting
example. The powered skateboard can be provided with any type of
battery. One or more battery parameters may effect the overall
performance of the powered skateboard.
[0118] The current subject matter contemplates multiple different
battery packs 190 having different amounts of electrical charge
stored in them The multiple different battery packs may comprise an
outer case having substantially similar dimensions. The multiple
different battery packs having outer cases having substantially
similar dimensions may facilitate the multiple different battery
packs to be secured within the cavity of the skateboard deck
regardless of the capacity of the battery pack. The cavity within
the skateboard deck may be configured to secure different sized
battery packs in the cavity.
[0119] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of
a system 900 for controlling a motor 902 of a powered skateboard
904. The control system 900 may include a handheld device 906. The
handheld device 1206 may comprise a transceiver 1208. While
transceivers are illustrated in FIG. 12, transmitters and/or
receivers are contemplated by the current subject matter. The
illustrated transceiver 1208 is intended to represent a
transceiver, a separate transmitter, a separate receiver, a single
transmitter, a single receiver, multiple transmitters, multiple
receivers, or any combination thereof. The transceiver 1208 can be
a wireless transceiver. The wireless transceiver 1208 can be
configured to transmit and/or receive radio frequency signals. The
transceiver 1208 can be configured to transmit and/or receiver
other signal types, such as audio signals, light signals, and/or
other signals.
[0120] In some variations, a controller 1210 can be co-located with
the motor 1202. The controller 1210 can be in electrical contact
with the motor 1202. The controller 1210 can be embedded with the
motor 1202. The controller 1210 can be disposed within the deck
1212 of the powered skateboard 1204. The transceiver 1208 in the
handheld device 1206 can be configured to transmit information to,
and/or receive information from, the controller 1210 in response to
an input received at the handheld device 1206 through one or more
of the input devices 1214 of the handheld device 1206.
[0121] Although FIG. 12 shows two input devices 1214 this is not
intended to be limiting. The illustration of the two input devices
1214 is illustrative only and the current subject matter
contemplates any number of input devices 1214. The input device(s)
1214 itself can be configured to receive multiple types of input
from a user. The input device(s) 1214 can include one or more of a
button, a slider, a wheel, a sensor, and/or other input devices.
The input device(s) 1214 can be configured to detect an increase in
pressure exerted by the user on the input device(s) 1214. In some
variations, the input device(s) 1214 can be configured to detect a
squeezing of the handheld device 1206 by the user. In some
variations, the input device(s) 1214 can be variable input devices
configured to detect a degree of pressure, or a degree of input,
provided by the user.
[0122] The handheld device 1206 can include a controller 1216. The
controller 1216 can be configured to cause the transceiver 1208 to
transmit instructions to, and/or receive instructions from, the
motor 1202. The instructions can control the motor 1202 in
accordance with the inputs received through the input devices
1206.
[0123] The powered skateboard 1204, may include a transceiver 1210.
The transceiver 1210 can be configured to transmit and/or receive
information associated with the operation of the powered skateboard
1204. The transceiver 1210 can be configured to transmit and/or
receive radio-wavelength signals. The transceiver 1210 can be
configured to transmit and/or receive one or more of WiFi signals,
Bluetooth signals, Near-Field-Communication signals, and/or other
signal formats and/or wavelengths.
[0124] The transceiver 1210 can be configured to transmit
information associated with the operation of the powered skateboard
1204. Where the motor 1202 is an electric motor powered by a
battery 1218, the information transmitted by the transceiver 1210
can include a level of charge of the battery 1218 and/or other
information associated with the battery 1218. The transceiver 1208
of the handheld device 1206 can be configured to receive
information associated with the operation of the powered skateboard
1204. For example, the information received can be associated with
the charge level of the battery 1218, a performance level of the
motor 1202, the strength of the signal between the transceiver 1210
of the powered skateboard 1204 and the transceiver 1208 of the
handheld device 1206.
[0125] The handheld device 1206 can include a display unit 1220.
The display unit 1220 can be configured to display information
associated with the operation of the motor 1202. The display unit
can be configured to display a charge level of the battery 1218
used to provide power to the electric motor. The display unit may
be an LED display, a touchscreen display, a series of lights
indication a charge level, and/or any device capable of conveying
to a user the transmitted information.
[0126] The handheld device 1206 and/or the powered skateboard 1204
can include a transceiver 1208, 1210, respectively, configured to
communicate with external devices 1222. In some variations, the
handheld device 1206 and the powered skateboard 1204 can
communicate with the external devices, such as external device
1222, through one another. For example, the transceiver 1210 of the
powered skateboard 1204 can communicate with the transceiver 1208
of the handheld device 1206 providing information associated with
the powered skateboard 1204. The handheld device 1206 can, in turn,
communicate that information with an external device, such as
external device 1222. In some variations, the transceiver 1208 of
the handheld device 1206 can communicate information to the
transceiver 1210 of the powered skateboard 1204. The powered
skateboard 1204 can, in turn, cause the information to be
transmitted to the external device 1222.
[0127] Information provided by the handheld device 1206 and/or the
powered skateboard 1204, to the external device 122 may include,
but not be limited to, battery charge information, speed
information, mode of operation information, acceleration
information, status information, error information, damage
information, a mode of operation of the motive device, a length of
time of operation of the motive device and other information
associated with the motive device. The external device 1222 can
include one or more of a smartphone, a tablet, a computer, a
laptop, a smartwatch, a vehicle, and/or other external device
capable of receiving the information. The external device 1222 can
facilitate presentation of information associated with the powered
skateboard 1204 and/or handheld device 1206 to a user. For example,
the external device 1222 can facilitate the presentation of the
maximum speed, maximum acceleration, average speed, average
acceleration, length of time in operation, distance traveled,
and/or other information associated with the operation of the
powered skateboard 1204.
[0128] The external device 1222 may be configured to receive input.
The inputs may correspond to one or more modes and/or elements of
the powered skateboard 1204 and/or the handheld device 1206. Inputs
and/or entries entered through an external device 1222 may select a
user for the powered skateboard 1204. The powered skateboard 1204,
handheld device 1206, external device 1222, and/or other devices,
may be configured to store information about different users, such
as user preferences. In response to receiving an indication that a
particular user is going to use the powered skateboard 1204, the
powered skateboard 1204 may be configured with the preferred
settings of that user. Inputs and/or entries entered through an
external device 1222 can render the powered skateboard 1204,
inoperable. The communications between the external device 1222,
the powered skateboard 1204, and/or the handheld controller 1206
can be via a wireless communication medium. Such wireless
communication medium may include radio signals. Such radio signals
may include Bluetooth signals and/or other short-range and/or long
range radio signals.
[0129] The motor 1202 and/or the controller 1224 of the powered
skateboard 1204 can be configured to have one or more modes. The
one or more modes can be associated with performance
characteristics of the powered skateboard 1204. For example, the
powered skateboard 1204 can have beginner, advanced, eco, custom
and/or other modes. Different modes may include settings, such as
maximum speed, maximum acceleration, maximum distance from home,
and/or other information. A user may select and/or enter a mode on
the handheld device 1206. The user may select and/or enter a mode
on the external device 1222. The mode selection and/or entry can be
transmitted by the transceiver 1208 to the transceiver 1210 of the
powered skateboard 1204. The transceiver 1210 of the powered
skateboard 1204 can be connected directly with the motor 1202 or
can be connected to a controller 1210. The selected and/or entered
mode received from the handheld device 1206 can cause the
controller 1210 and/or motor 1202 to have performance
characteristics associated with the selected and/or entered
mode.
[0130] One or more input devices 1214 of the handheld device 1206
can be configured to cause changes in the speed of the motor 1202.
One or more input devices 1214 can be configured to cause changes
in the rate of acceleration of the motor 1202. Speed and/or
acceleration information may be transmitted by transceiver 1208 of
the handheld device 1216 to transceiver 1210 of the powered
skateboard 1204. The transceiver 1210 can be configured to provide
the speed and/or acceleration information to the controller 1224
and/or the motor 1202, depending on the configuration of the
handheld device 1206 and the powered skateboard 1204. One or more
input devices 1214 can include a kill switch. The kill switch can
be configured to deactivate the motor 1202 in response to the kill
switch being activated. In some variations, the kill switch may be
activated by the kill switch being pressed. In other variation, the
kill switch may be activated by a user releasing the kill
switch.
[0131] In some variations, the powered skateboard 1204 can include
one or more pressure sensitive devices 1226. The pressure sensitive
device(s) 1226 can be configured to detect a pressure exerted on
the deck 1212 of the powered skateboard 1204. The pressure
sensitive device(s) 1226 can be calibrated to detect the weight of
a rider on the deck 1212. The pressure sensitive device(s) 1226 can
be connected to the controller 1224. The controller 1224 can be
configured to monitor the pressure exerted on the pressure
sensitive device(s) 1226 over time. Users of the powered skateboard
1204 can develop a pattern when using the powered skateboard 1204,
such that the controller 1224 can be configured to learn how a
particular user exerts pressure on the deck 1212 during operation
of the powered skateboard 1204. The controller 1224 can be
configured to detect a situation where the user has broken their
usual pattern. A user may break their usual pattern by falling off
of the powered skateboard 1204. In such cases, the controller 1224
can be configured to reduce the speed of the powered skateboard
1204 and/or stop it.
[0132] The pressure sensitive device(s) 1226 can be disposed in the
trucks of the powered skateboard 1204. The pressure sensitive
device(s) 1226 can be disposed between the deck 1212 and the trucks
of the powered skateboard 1204. The pressure sensitive device(s)
1226 can be calibrated for the user's weight during an initial
set-up of the powered skateboard 1204 by the user.
[0133] FIG. 13A is a schematic diagram of a powered skateboard
1204. FIG. 13B is a schematic diagram of a front-end of a powered
skateboard 1204. The powered skateboard 1204 can be similar to the
powered skateboard 1204 illustrated in FIG. 12. The powered
skateboard 1204 can include a deck 1212. The deck 1212 can include
one or more forward facing lights 1302. The deck 1212 can include
one or more rear facing lights 1304. The lights 1302 and 1304 can
be powered by the battery 1218. The forward facing lights 1302 and
the rear facing lights 1304 can be a light emitting diode
(LED).
[0134] The powered skateboard 1204 can include a controller 1224.
The controller 1224 can be configured to facilitate control of the
powered skateboard 1204. The controller 1224 can be configured to
control an electric motor 1202. The controller 1224 can be
configured to control the lights 1302 and 1304.
[0135] The front facing lights 1302 can be configured to illuminate
the direction of travel in front of the powered skateboard 1204.
The front facing lights 1302 can be integrated into the skateboard
deck 1212. The skateboard deck 1212 can be configured to include
channels for receiving the front facing lights 1302 and the rear
facing lights 1304. The skateboard deck 1212 can include ports 1308
configured to accept the lights 1302 and 1304. The ports 1308 can
be configured to include water resistant material to prohibit
ingress of water through the ports 1308.
[0136] The powered skateboard 1204 can include a photo sensor 1306.
The photo sensor 1306 can be configured to detect when the powered
skateboard 1204 is in the dark. The photo sensor 1306 can be in
electronic communication with a controller 1224. In response to the
photo sensor 1306 detecting that the powered skateboard 1204 is in
the dark, the controller 1224 can be configured to cause the
forward facing lights 1302 to illuminate. In some variations, the
controller 1224 can be configured to cause the forward facing
lights 1302 to illuminate at predefined times of day.
[0137] The controller 1224 can be configured to cause the rearward
facing lights 1304 in response to the photo sensor 1306 detecting
that the powered skateboard 1204 is in the dark. The controller
1224 can be configured to cause the rearward facing lights 1304 in
response to an indication that the powered skateboard 1204 is
decelerating. Deceleration of the powered skateboard 1204 that can
cause the controller 1224 to cause the rearward facing lights 1304
to illuminate can include purposeful deceleration. Purposeful
deceleration is deceleration cause by retardation of forward motion
by the one or more motors 1202 of the powered skateboard 1204. In
variations, where the rearward facing lights 1304 are illuminated
due to the powered skateboard 1204 being in the dark, the
controller can cause the rearward facing lights 1304 to illuminate
with more intensity.
[0138] While FIGS. 13A and 13B shows lights 1302 and 1304 embedded
in the skateboard 1212, the current subject matter contemplates the
lights 1302 and 1304 being disposed in one or more other locations
of the powered skateboard 1204.
[0139] The powered skateboard 1204 can include one or more cameras
1310, 1312. The powered skateboard 1204 can include one or more
front-facing cameras 1310 and/or one or more rear-facing cameras
1312. The one or more cameras can be in electronic communication
with the controller 1224. The controller 1224 can be configured to
manage the cameras 1310 and 1312. The controller 1224 can include
electronic data storage. The controller 1224 can be in electronic
communication with electronic data storage. The cameras 1310, 1312
can be configured to obtain still images and/or video images. The
video images can include multiple still images taken in quick
succession. The images taken by the cameras 1310, 1312 can be
stored on electronic data storage managed and maintained by the
controller 1224.
[0140] In some variations, the controller 1224 can be in electronic
communication with one or more motion sensors 1314. The one or more
motion sensors 1314 can include a gyroscope, accelerometer, mercury
switch, compass, GPS receiver, and/or other sensors. In response to
an acceleration of the powered skateboard 1204 in any direction,
detected by the motion sensor(s) 1314, the controller can cause the
cameras 1310 and 1312 to obtain still images and/or video images.
The still images and/or video images can be stored on electronic
data storage.
[0141] The one or more sensors 1314 can be disposed on the powered
skateboard 1204 through the skateboard deck 1212. Multiple sensors
of a particular sensor type can be incorporated into the powered
skateboard 1204. Multiple sensors of different sensor type can be
incorporated into the powered skateboard 1204. In some variations,
sensors integrated into the handheld controller 1206 and/or the
external device(s) 1222 can augment information provided by the
sensor(s) 1314. For example, the external device(s) 1222 can
include a GPS receiver. Data received by the GPS receiver of the
external device(s) 1222 can be received by the controller 1224
through a transceiver 1210 connected to the controller 1224.
[0142] Motion sensors 1314 can be configured to determine an
orientation of the powered skateboard 1204. In particular, motion
sensors 1314 can provide information to the controller 1224 that
the powered skateboard 1204 is performing a manual, or wheelie. In
some instances, a user may deliberately perform a manual. In other
instances, a user may accidentally perform a manual because the
their center of mass has been displaced to a position that makes
them instable on the powered skateboard 1204, for example, aft of
the rear axle. In circumstances where the user intends to perform a
manual the user can provide input to configure the powered
skateboard 1204 for performing such tricks. In circumstances where
the user performs an accidental manual by having their center of
mass at an unstable location, the powered skateboard 1204 can be
configured to facilitate bringing the center of mass of the user
forward of the rear axel.
[0143] The motion sensor(s) 1314 can provide an indication to the
controller that the powered skateboard 1204 is in a manual
position. FIG. 16A illustrates an example of the powered skateboard
in the manual position. The motion sensor(s) 1314 can be configured
to provide such indication in response to a detection that the
powered skateboard has reached or exceeded a threshold angle
compared the surface on which the powered skateboard it travelling.
The motion sensor(s) 1314 can be configured to continuously provide
an indication of the angle, and the controller 1224 can be
configured to intervene when the powered skateboard is at or
exceeds a threshold angle. The controller 1224 can recognize an
accidental manual, which can mean that the center of mass of the
rider is likely behind the rear axle or is moving toward a position
behind the rear axle. In some variations, this can be verified by
the powered wheels 1202 providing an indication to the controller
1224 that they are experiencing an accelerative force due to the
rider's center of mass moving further rearward of the rear axle.
The controller 1224 can be configured to reduce the speed of the
electric wheels 1202 and in some cases reverse the electric wheels
1202 to facilitate bring the user's center of mass back in front of
the rear axle of the powered skateboard 1204. FIG. 16B, is an
illustration of the powered skateboard after an accidental manual
has been corrected.
[0144] FIG. 14 is an illustration of an object avoidance system
1400 for a powered skateboard, in accordance with one or more
elements of the current subject matter. The object avoidance system
1400 can include LIDAR, or stereo imaging. The object avoidance
system 1400 can include an electromagnetic wave source 1402
configured to emit electromagnetic waves. The object avoidance
system 1400 can include multiple electromagnetic wave sources 1402.
The electromagnetic wave sources 1402 can be disposed in the deck
1212 of a powered skateboard. The electromagnetic wave sources 1402
can be disposed in the deck 1212 at various locations. The
electromagnetic wave sources 1402 can include, but are not limited
to ultraviolet, visible, near infrared, infrared, and other
electromagnetic wave emitters. The electromagnetic waves emitted by
the electromagnetic wave sources 1402 can be configured to
illuminate objects 1406 within the field of the electromagnetic
waves. The electromagnetic wave source 1402 can be selected to emit
a wavelength corresponding to the types of objects 1406 likely to
be encountered by the powered skateboard. The electromagnetic wave
source 1402 can be a laser. The laser can be configured to emit
light at a wavelength between 100-2000 nm. The laser can be
configured to emit light at a wavelength that is not focused by the
eye. For example, the laser can be configured to emit light at a
wavelength of approximately 1550 nm. The electromagnetic wave
source 1402 can be configured to emit a pulse of electromagnetic
waves.
[0145] The object avoidance system 1400 can include a light
backscattering detector 1404. The backscattering detector 1404 can
be configured to detect light backscattered by one or more of
Rayleigh scattering, Mie scattering, Raman scattering,
fluorescence, or another type of scattering. The object avoidance
system 1400 can include a scanner. The scanner can be configured to
scan the backscattered light. Optics, such as mirrors and/or lenses
can be used to facilitate the scanning of the backscattered
light.
[0146] The backscattering detector 1404 can include a
photodetector. The photodetector can include a solid state
photodetector, a photomultiplier and/or another type of
photodetector. The backscattering detector 1404 can include
receiver electronics. The sensitivity of the receiver can be
selected to facilitate object detection of the kinds of objects
likely encountered by a powered skateboard.
[0147] The object avoidance system 1400 can be connected to the
controller 1224. The controller 1224 can be configured to receive
data signals from the detector 1404 representative of scans
obtained by the detector 1404. The controller 1224 can be
configured to analyze the scans to determine whether there is an
obstacle in the path of the powered skateboard.
[0148] In some implementations, the object avoidance system 1400
can include one or more cameras 1310. The camera(s) 1310 can be
configured to scan images of the path ahead of the powered
skateboard. The camera(s) 1310 can be electronically connected to a
controller 1224. The controller 1224 can be configured to determine
whether there is an obstacle in the path of the powered
skateboard.
[0149] In response to determining that there is an obstacle in the
path of the powered skateboard, the controller 1224 can be
configured to slow the powered skateboard by reducing the angular
momentum of the powered wheel 1202. In some variations, the
controller 1224 can be configured to slow the powered skateboard to
a stop. The controller 1224 can be configured to reduce the speed
of the powered skateboard to facilitate maneuver of the powered
skateboard around the obstacle by the rider. The controller 1224
can be configured to stop or slow the powered skateboard based on
the type or size of the obstacle detected.
[0150] In response to determining that there is an obstacle in the
path of the powered skateboard, the controller 1224 can be
configured to provide haptic feedback. Such haptic feedback can
include a vibration. The controller 1224 can be configured to cause
a connected mobile device to provide a notification. The controller
1224 can be configured to cause, by the one or more components of
the powered skateboard 100, or a connected smartphone, recordation
of events prior to detection of an obstacle, during detection of
the obstacle, after detection of the obstacle, and the like. The
object avoidance system 1400 can be activated when the powered
skateboard is being operated in the dark. The object avoidance
system 1400 can be configured to detect obstacles that are outside
of the field of vision of the rider, or are further away than the
rider can see. In some variations, the object avoidance system 1400
can detect obstacles outside of the range of the light emitted
lights 1302 of the powered skateboard.
[0151] When the powered skateboard is operated in light conditions,
the object avoidance system 1400 can be deactivated. Deactivating
the object avoidance system 1400 during operation of the powered
skateboard during light conditions can extend battery life.
[0152] FIGS. 15A and 15B illustrate charging systems 1500 and 1510,
respectively, for a powered skateboard 1502 in accordance with one
or more elements of the current subject matter. Referring to FIG.
15A, the charging system 1500 for a powered skateboard 1502 can
include a stand 1504. The stand 1504 can be configured to support
the powered skateboard 1502. In some variations, the stand 1504 can
be configured to support the powered skateboard 1502 by the trucks
of the powered skateboard 1502. The stand 1504 can include one or
more hooked supports 1506 configured to engage the trucks of the
powered skateboard 1502. In some variations, the stand 1504 can be
configured to support the powered skateboard 1502 using the wheels
of the powered skateboard 1502.
[0153] In some variations, the stand can be configured to
facilitate insertion of a portion of the deck of the powered
skateboard 1502 into a slot of the stand. The slot can be
configured to support the powered skateboard in an upright
position.
[0154] Referring to FIG. 15B, the charging system 1510 can include
one or more hooks 1512. The charging system 1510 may be configured
to be mounted to a wall to facilitate wall-mounting the powered
skateboard 1502. The charging system 1510 can include a hook 1512
to support with the powered skateboard 1502.
[0155] The powered skateboard 1502 can be configured to be charged
through conductive charging. The support for the powered skateboard
1502 can include conductive charging elements at the location where
the support engages with the powered skateboard 1502. Similarly,
the powered skateboard 1502 can include conductive charging
elements. The conductive charging elements can be integrated into
the powered skateboard at the locations where the powered
skateboard engages with the stand. In this way, power can be
conducted from the stand to the powered skateboard, thereby
charging the on-board batteries of the powered skateboard.
[0156] The powered skateboard 1502 can include conductive charging
elements for a handheld controller, such as the handheld controller
illustrated in FIG. 12. The handheld controller can include
conductive charging elements located where the handheld controller
engages with the powered skateboard 1502 when the handheld
controller is hung on the powered skateboard for storage.
[0157] In some variations, the powered skateboard 1502 can include
an electrical connector. The charging station for charging and
supporting the powered skateboard can include an electrical
connector configured to engage with the electrical connector of the
powered skateboard. The electrical connectors of the charging
station and the powered skateboard can be located in positions to
facilitate engagement by the electrical connectors with one another
when the powered skateboard is put on the stand of the charging
station. Similarly, the handheld controller can include an
electrical connector for engaging with a complimentary electrical
connector of the powered skateboard.
[0158] In some variations, the charging station can be configured
to support the handheld controller as well as the powered
skateboard. The charging station can be configured to charge the
handheld controller when supporting the handheld controller.
[0159] The subject matter described herein can be embodied in
systems, apparatus, methods, and/or articles depending on the
desired configuration. The implementations set forth in the
foregoing description do not represent all implementations
consistent with the subject matter described herein. Instead, they
are merely some examples consistent with aspects related to the
described subject matter. Although a few variations have been
described in detail above, other modifications or additions are
possible. In particular, further features and/or variations can be
provided in addition to those set forth herein. For example, the
implementations described above can be directed to various
combinations and subcombinations of the disclosed features and/or
combinations and subcombinations of several further features
disclosed above. In addition, the logic flows depicted in the
accompanying figures and/or described herein do not necessarily
require the particular order shown, or sequential order, to achieve
desirable results. Other implementations may be within the scope of
the following claims.
* * * * *