U.S. patent application number 15/349909 was filed with the patent office on 2019-09-26 for collapsible vehicle.
The applicant listed for this patent is Pride Mobility Products Corporation. Invention is credited to James M. Kosco, Sterling G. Lamoreux, III, Charles J. Martis.
Application Number | 20190291808 15/349909 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38274516 |
Filed Date | 2019-09-26 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20190291808 |
Kind Code |
A9 |
Kosco; James M. ; et
al. |
September 26, 2019 |
COLLAPSIBLE VEHICLE
Abstract
A powered vehicle has a rear frame assembly and a front frame
assembly that are pivotally attached to one another, and can be
pivoted from a normal fully-extended operating position to a folded
position in which the frame assemblies are positioned substantially
adjacent to one another, effectively reducing overall vehicle
length to about half. One or more latch members lock the front and
rear frame assemblies in the fully-extended, normal operating
position, and they may be used to lock the frame assemblies in the
folded position. The seat support structure may be integrated with
the front and rear frame assemblies such that pivoting the frame
assemblies toward the folded position collapses the seat support.
The steering tiller may also be collapsible toward the front frame
assembly. The rear wheels may be mounted on a transaxle that is
pivotally mounted on the rear frame assembly. An extendable handle
may be provided to assist in the folding operation and to tow the
collapsed vehicle on its anti-tip rollers.
Inventors: |
Kosco; James M.; (West
Wyoming, PA) ; Martis; Charles J.; (Harding, PA)
; Lamoreux, III; Sterling G.; (Harveys Lake, PA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Pride Mobility Products Corporation |
Exeter |
PA |
US |
|
|
Prior
Publication: |
|
Document Identifier |
Publication Date |
|
US 20170057587 A1 |
March 2, 2017 |
|
|
Family ID: |
38274516 |
Appl. No.: |
15/349909 |
Filed: |
November 11, 2016 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14086430 |
Nov 21, 2013 |
9522711 |
|
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15349909 |
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13112063 |
May 20, 2011 |
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14086430 |
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11385339 |
Mar 21, 2006 |
7967095 |
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13112063 |
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10960742 |
Oct 7, 2004 |
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11385339 |
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60509494 |
Oct 8, 2003 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B62K 5/025 20130101;
B62K 5/027 20130101; H01M 2/1072 20130101; B62K 15/008 20130101;
B62K 15/006 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B62K 15/00 20060101
B62K015/00; B62K 5/027 20060101 B62K005/027; B62K 5/025 20060101
B62K005/025 |
Claims
1. A foldable scooter comprising: a foldable main frame assembly
including a front frame and a rear frame coupled to the front frame
such that at least one of the front frame and the rear frame is
pivotable relative to the other between (i) an open position and
(ii) a folded position whereby bottom surfaces of the front and
rear frames are drawn toward each other; at least one front wheel
operably coupled to the front frame; a tiller coupled to the front
frame; and a seat frame including at least one rear support member
and at least one front support member that is pivotably coupled to
the at least one rear support member at a pivot that is fixed
relative to the at least one rear support member, wherein the at
least one rear support member is pivotably coupled to the main
frame assembly at a rear support pivot that is spaced apart from
and independent from the pivotal connection between the front frame
and the rear frame, and the at least one front support member is
pivotably coupled to the main frame assembly at a front support
pivot that is spaced apart from and independent from the pivotal
connection between the front frame and the rear frame, such that
actuating the frame assembly from the open position to the folded
position draws at least a portion of the at least one front seat
support member toward the rear frame and draws at least a portion
of the at least one rear seat support member toward the rear
frame.
2. The scooter of claim 1, wherein the rear frame is pivotably
coupled to the front frame at a main pivot.
3. The scooter of claim 1, further comprising a hinged connection
that is pivotably coupled to the front frame, wherein the at least
one font support member is pivotably coupled to the hinged
connection.
4. The scooter of claim 1, wherein the at least one front support
member is pivotably coupled to the front frame.
5. The scooter of claim 1, wherein the front frame is substantially
parallel to the rear frame when the main frame assembly is in the
folded position.
6. The scooter of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the at
least one front seat support member is oriented parallel to at
least a portion of the at least one rear support member when the
main frame assembly is in the folded position.
7. The scooter of claim 6, wherein the front frame is substantially
parallel to the rear frame when the main frame assembly is in the
folded position.
8. The scooter of claim 6, wherein the at least a portion of the at
least one front seat support member and the at least a portion of
the at least one rear support member are oriented parallel to the
rear frame when the main frame assembly is in the folded
position.
9. The scooter of claim 1, further comprising a pair of rear wheels
operably coupled to the rear frame.
Description
RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 14/086,430, filed Nov. 21, 2013, which is a
continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/112,063, filed
May 20, 2011, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 11/385,339, filed Mar. 21, 2006, now issued as U.S. Pat.
No. 7,967,095, which is a continuation in part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 10/960,742, filed Oct. 7, 2004, which claims
the benefit of provisional patent application No. 60/509,494, filed
Oct. 8, 2003, the contents of each of which are incorporated herein
by reference in their entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The invention relates to the field of powered vehicles, such
as personal mobility vehicles and scooter type vehicles.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Personal mobility vehicles are increasingly used by aged or
infirm individuals who need assistance in moving about. Such
vehicles typically have three or four main wheels for stability,
and may have additional anti-tip rollers. They are limited in speed
and other aspects for reasons commensurate with the reduced
physical ability of the rider. While some regulatory bodies
differentiate between scooters used as personal mobility vehicles
and faster or larger personal mobility vehicles, no such
differentiation is intend in this description. Nor is the invention
limited to personal mobility vehicles for the aged and infirm. Many
available personal mobility vehicles include separable components
to make them easier to store and transport. Typically the seat,
batteries, rear motor assembly and front deck assembly of the frame
can be separated from one another, and the steering tiller may be
folded toward the frame.
[0004] It is contemplated that a personal vehicle wherein the
various parts remain substantially integrated, but are capable of
being folded or collapsed into a compact profile, would have some
advantages over prior vehicles with separable components. The need
for such a vehicle is addressed by the present invention.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] Aspects of the invention include a personal mobility vehicle
having a rear frame assembly and a front frame assembly that are
pivotally attached to one another. One or more latch members are
provided for locking the front and rear frame assemblies in the
fully-extended, normal operating position, and they may be used to
lock the frame assemblies in various pivoted positions, including
the fully-folded position in which the frame assemblies are
positioned substantially adjacent to one another, effectively
reducing overall vehicle length to about half. A lift handle may be
provided either on the front or the rear frame assemblies near the
pivot connections to assist in collapsing the vehicle.
[0006] A seat support structure is attached to and supported by the
rear frame assembly. Another aspect of the invention includes that
the seat support structure can be collapsed onto the rear frame
assembly. The vehicle may have a latch member for locking the seat
support structure in the raised normal operating position and a
latch member to lock the structure in the collapsed position, and
the same latch member may perform both functions. The latch member
for locking the front and rear frame assemblies may also be the
same mechanism used to lock the seat support structure. The pivotal
connection for the seat support structure may be arranged in such
manner that the folding of the first and second frame assemblies
causes the collapse of the seat support structure.
[0007] A steering tiller is operatively connected to the front
steering wheel. Another aspect of the invention includes that the
steering tiller may be easily disconnected at its lower end from
the front steering wheel, and then pivoted back against the front
frame member, again with the objective of a compact profile for
storage and transport.
[0008] Vehicles using the invention may include one or more motor
drive units, typically battery powered electric motors. The motor
drive(s) may be operatively connected to one or both of rear wheels
or to a forward steering wheel. Another aspect of the invention
includes an embodiment wherein the rear wheels and/or drive
motor(s) may be mounted on an axle that is pivotally connected to
the rear frame assembly, such that the axle can be unlatched and
pivoted into the rear frame assembly to reduce the overall
profile.
[0009] The vehicle may have rear anti-tip rollers. Another aspect
of the invention includes that anti-tip rollers may be positioned
to extend beyond the end of the vehicle when it is collapsed, such
that the rollers can be used to as trundles to tow the folded
vehicle. In this configuration, the lift handle near the pivot
connections of the front and rear frame assemblies is vehicle is
preferably an extendable handle. This allows the handle to be
extended above the bulk of the collapsed vehicle and used to tow
the vehicle on the anti-tip rollers.
[0010] The latch member for locking and unlocking the pivotal
joints may be any suitable form of latching mechanism. For example,
it may be in the form of a latch having a spring biased pin which
inserts through one of the frame assemblies and engages a slot on
the other frame assembly. Removal of the pin from the retainer
permits the frame assemblies to pivot in order to collapse the
vehicle. A second pin receiving retainer may be provided at a
different location on the latch for locking the folded frame
assemblies in the collapsed position.
[0011] According to another embodiment, a foldable scooter includes
a frame that is foldable from an open configuration to a folded
configuration, a seat coupled to the frame, a pair of rear wheels
and at least one front wheel, at least one motor for driving the
wheelchair, and at least one battery for providing power to the at
least one motor. Preferably each wheel has a dedicated motor and
the scooter includes a pair of batteries. Each battery includes a
casing, a handgrip, an electrical connector, and a battery
retaining surface.
[0012] The scooter also includes a battery compartment for
receiving the battery. The battery compartment preferably is formed
as part of a cover and includes an electrical connector, a
retaining surface capable of contacting the battery retaining
surface, and a spring loaded latch for securing the battery
relative to the battery compartment upon engagement of the
electrical connectors. The retaining surfaces may be tabs and
corresponding slots formed respectively on the battery casing and
in the slots. Alternatively, the tabs may be formed on the battery
compartment and the slots or guides may be formed in the battery
casing. The battery is capable of being inserted into the battery
compartment while the frame is in its open configuration and is
capable of being removed in either the open or folded configuration
of the frame.
[0013] Preferably, a latch for retaining the battery in the battery
compartment includes a pin that is spring loaded toward an extended
position. And the battery compartment includes an aperture to
receive the pin in a vertical orientation (while the scooter is in
its open position). Grasping and pulling the handle, or even
lifting the handle, may relieve the spring force such that the pin
disengages from the battery compartment aperture. Upon vertical
actuation of the pin, the battery may be removed by sliding the
battery longitudinally as guided by the tabs and grooves.
Preferably, a terminal portion of each slot is substantially
perpendicular to the direction of actuation of the pin. And the
slots have at least two non-parallel portions such that the battery
tabs change direction while the battery is inserted
therethrough.
[0014] According to another embodiment, a foldable scooter includes
a foldable frame assembly, a front wheel, a pair of rear wheels, a
tiller, and a seat frame. The foldable main frame assembly includes
a front frame, a rear frame, and a main pivot functionally
connected between the front frame and the rear frame. Each of the
front and rear frames preferably includes a pressure plate, and the
opposing pressure plates are in contact to limit movement of the
frame past its open position. The main latch mechanism and the
hinges that form the main pivot also limit the movement of the
frame past its open position.
[0015] The seat frame includes at least one front seat support
member and at least one rear seat support member that extend
upwardly from the frame assembly while the frame assembly is in its
open position. The front seat support member is coupled to the
front frame at a secondary pivot that is spaced apart from the main
pivot such that actuating the frame assembly from its open position
to its folded position draws at least a portion of the front seat
support member toward the rear frame and draws at least a portion
of the rear seat support member toward the rear frame. The
secondary pivot preferably is located higher than and rearward of
the main pivot while the scooter is in its open position; the front
seat support member has a first end coupled at the secondary pivot
and a second end pivotally coupled to the rear seat support member.
And actuating the frame assembly from its open position to its
closed position draws the front seat support member first end
frontward relative to the rear frame and an upper portion of the
rear seat support member downward relative to the rear frame.
[0016] A latch assembly for retaining the scooter in its open
position includes a retractable pin on one of the front frame and
the rear frame and a first recess in an other of the front frame
and the rear frame. The pin is biased toward engagement of the
first recess and the engagement of the pin in the first recess at
least partially retains the scooter in its open position. The latch
preferably includes a clasp in which the first recess is formed.
And the clasp further includes a second recess, such that
engagement of the pin in the second recess at least partially
retains the scooter in the closed position. The clasp includes a
sliding surface between the first and second recesses, and the pin
moves across the sliding surface while the scooter is moved between
its open and folded positions.
[0017] According to another aspect, the scooter includes a handle
assembly that is coupled to the frame assembly, preferably on the
rear support, and is accessible while the scooter is in its folded
position. The handle assembly includes a telescoping handle capable
of being gripped to enable a user to wheel the scooter in its
folded position. A pair of rollers, preferably separate from the
anti-tip wheels, enables the folded scooter to be pulled by the
handle. An outer shell or posterior of the handle assembly forms a
skid surface for enabling the scooter to be moved over stair
treads. The skid surface and rollers are configured to eliminate a
gap therebetween.
[0018] According to another aspect, the scooter includes a foldable
chair that is removably coupled to the seat frame while the scooter
is in its open position. The chair includes a base, a back, a pair
of arm rests, and a pair of arm rest supports. The base includes a
top surface that is a seat. The back extends from the base and is
hinged and foldable relative to the seat. The arm rest supports
extend from the base and are pivotable relative to the base. The
arm rests extend from the arm rest supports and are pivotable
relative to the arm rest supports. The back, arm rest supports, and
arm rests are capable of folding to form a chair folded
position.
[0019] The arm rest includes at least one slot and the arm rest
support includes at least one pin that is insertable into the slot.
The arm rest is located in its functional position while the pin is
located in a first position in the slot, and the arm rest is
capable of being pivoted toward the arm rest support while the pin
is located in a second position in the slot. The base includes a
cloverleaf flange that mates with a corresponding cloverleaf
structure located on the seat frame while the scooter is in its
open position. The cloverleaf flange fits into a receptacle having
a slotted opening located on the tiller.
[0020] According to another aspect, a method of folding and
unfolding a scooter comprises the steps of: (a) providing a scooter
having a front frame, a rear frame, a main pivot functionally
connected between the front frame and the rear frame, a seat frame,
and a tiller that is pivotally connected to the front frame; (b)
releasing a tiller latch while the scooter is in its open position
to enable the tiller to fold toward the front frame; (c) releasing
a main first latch while the scooter is in its open position to
enable the front and rear frame to move about the main pivot; and
(d) lifting an intermediate portion of the scooter while the
scooter is in its open position to pivot the front frame relative
to the rear frame about the main pivot and drawing the seat frame
toward the rear frame until the scooter reaches its folded
position.
[0021] The method also encompasses engaging (and subsequently
releasing) a second latch to retain (and then release) the scooter
in its folded position where the second latch is formed by a single
spring-biased pin and a pair of opposing recesses formed on a
clasp.
[0022] Other aspects and advantages of the features of the
invention will become apparent by reviewing the description of the
drawings provided herewith.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0023] For the purpose of illustrating the invention, there is
shown in the drawings various forms that are presently preferred.
It being understood, however, that this invention is not limited to
the precise arrangements and constructions particularly
illustrated.
[0024] FIG. 1 is a rear perspective view of a personal vehicle with
various frame coverings removed to expose the frame and features of
the invention.
[0025] FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the vehicle shown in
FIG. 1, wherein the front and rear frame assemblies have been
folded together.
[0026] FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a
personal vehicle using a front wheel motor drive and aspects of the
invention.
[0027] FIG. 4 shows an enlarged view of the connection between the
front and rear frame assemblies of the vehicle of FIG. 3.
[0028] FIG. 5 is a side view of the vehicle of FIG. 4 wherein the
frame assemblies are pivoted at a 90 degree angle with respect to
one another.
[0029] FIG. 6 is a side perspective view of the vehicle shown in
FIGS. 4 and 5 wherein the front and rear frame assemblies are
folded together and the seat support structure is collapsed onto
the rear frame assembly.
[0030] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the front
and rear frame assemblies showing details of the latch mechanism
for locking and releasing the front and rear frame assemblies and
seat support.
[0031] FIG. 8 is an external view of a portion of the front and
rear frame assemblies showing the latch mechanism.
[0032] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the latch
mechanism with the frame assemblies in the collapsed position.
[0033] FIG. 10 is a side view of a collapsible vehicle frame having
a pivotal rear transaxle on which are mounted the rear wheels and
drive motors. One wheel has been removed to expose details of the
axle.
[0034] FIG. 11 is a view of the frame of FIG. 10 showing the
transaxle pivoted away from the rear frame assembly.
[0035] FIG. 12 is a view of a personal mobility vehicle with an
extendable lift handle setting upright on its anti-tip rollers in
its collapsed condition.
[0036] FIG. 13 is a view of the vehicle of FIG. 12 being towed on
the anti-tip rollers.
[0037] FIG. 14 is a view of a vehicle having a quick disconnect
fitting between the steering tiller and the front steering
wheel.
[0038] FIG. 15A is a perspective view of another embodiment of the
vehicle shown in its operational configuration with the seat
assembly removed for clarity;
[0039] FIG. 15B is a side view of the vehicle shown in FIG.
15A;
[0040] FIG. 16A is a perspective view of the vehicle of FIG. 15A in
a partially folded configuration;
[0041] FIG. 16B is a side view of the vehicle shown in FIG.
16A;
[0042] FIG. 17A is a perspective view of the vehicle of FIG. 15A
shown in its folded configuration;
[0043] FIG. 17B is a side view of the vehicle shown in FIG.
17B;
[0044] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a latch shown in the
operational configuration;
[0045] FIG. 19 is a side view of the latch of FIG. 18;
[0046] FIG. 20A in an enlarged cross sectional view of the latch of
FIG. 19 shown in its operational position;
[0047] FIG. 20B is an enlarged cross sectional view of the latch of
FIG. 19 shown in its folded configuration;
[0048] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a battery unit;
[0049] FIG. 22 is a side view of the battery unit of FIG. 21;
[0050] FIG. 23 is a top view of the battery unit;
[0051] FIG. 24A is a side cross sectional view of a battery
unit;
[0052] FIG. 24B is a side cross sectional view of the battery unit
of FIG. 24A with its handle in the extended position;
[0053] FIG. 25A is an end view of the battery unit of FIG. 24A;
[0054] FIG. 25B is an end view of the battery unit of FIG. 24B with
its handle in the extended position;
[0055] FIG. 26 shows the vehicle of FIG. 15A in its fully folded
configuration, with the chair assembly removed for clarity;
[0056] FIG. 27 is a perspective view of a seat assembly for use
with the scooter of FIG. 15A;
[0057] FIG. 28 is an enlarged perspective view of the underside of
the seat assembly shown in FIG. 27;
[0058] FIG. 29 is an enlarged view of a component of the seat
assembly;
[0059] FIG. 30 is a schematic view of a portion of the cover;
[0060] FIG. 31 is an enlarged perspective view of the batteries
located in the battery compartments;
[0061] FIG. 32 is a perspective view of the battery
compartment;
[0062] FIG. 33 is an end view of the batteries located in the
battery compartment with some portions cut away for illustration;
and
[0063] FIG. 34 is a cross section view taken through lines 34-34 in
FIG. 33.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0064] Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference
numerals identify like elements, FIG. 1 depicts a personal vehicle
10 from which various body covering panels have been removed to
expose the frame and features of the invention. The vehicle 10
includes a rear frame assembly 12 and a front frame assembly 14.
The rear frame assembly 12 supports two rear wheels 16. A seat
support structure 18 is provided to support a seat 20 in an
elevated position above the vehicle base. The seat may be
detachable from the seat support. A front steering wheel 22 is
supported by the front frame assembly 14. The steering wheel 22 is
mounted in a wheel fork 24 which is rotationally supported in a
collar 26 that is secured to the front frame assembly 14. A
steering tiller 28 extends upwardly from the collar 26 to a handle
bar 30. The tiller 28 may include an adjustment hinge 32 for
adjusting the angle of the tiller, and thus the height and
proximity of the handlebar 30 to the seat 20. The tiller 28 may
further be length-adjustable by a telescoping section 33.
[0065] The front and rear frame assemblies are pivotally connected
to each other by hinges 34. A latch mechanism (which is more
particularly discussed below in reference to more detailed
drawings) is used to lock the front and rear frame assemblies in
the fully-extended, normal operating position. When the latch is
unlocked, the front and rear frame assemblies can be pivoted at the
hinges 34 into a folded position in which the frame assemblies are
positioned substantially adjacent to one another, effectively
reducing overall length of the vehicle to about half.
[0066] The front and rear frame assemblies 12, 14 may be formed of
hollow tubular metal members welded together to form a rigid
structure. The rear frame assembly 12 may extend beyond the rear
wheels to mount rear anti-tip rollers 38. A pair of batteries 40
and an electric power controller 42 may be positioned below the
seat support structure 18 and seat 20. A drive motor 44 is
connected to one or both of the rear wheels 16.
[0067] In FIG. 2, the vehicle 10 is shown in a partially collapsed
condition wherein the front frame assembly 14 is positioned closely
adjacent the rear frame assembly 12 after they have been pivoted
about the hinges 34. In addition, the steering tiller 28 has been
placed in a collapsed condition by adjusting the angle of the
adjustment hinge 32 and shortening the length by using the
telescoping joint 33. The seat support structure may also collapse
onto the rear frame assembly, as described hereafter.
[0068] FIG. 2 shows that the seat support structure 18 may
generally comprise a tubular front support member 46 aligned with
the vehicle's longitudinal centerline and extending back from the
front center of the rear frame assembly, in conjunction with a
bipod support member 48 extending from an apex under the seat post
to two projected ends 49, giving the seat support structure 18 a
tripod configuration. The ends of the bipod member are pivotally
connected to the rear frame near the rear wheels, such as by a
rotational attachment to the wheel axles. This attachment of the
distal ends of the seat support bipod member 48 allows the bipod
member 48 to rotate from the upright riding position to a collapsed
position.
[0069] The front seat support member 46 is pivotally attached to
the bipod member 48 and to the front frame assembly in a manner
that allows the folding of the first and second frame assemblies to
cause the seat support structure to collapse. The front support
member 46 is pivotally attached to the bipod member 48 by a yoke
and pin hinged connection 50. The opposite end of the front seat
support member 46 is pivotally attached to a transverse member 54
of the front frame assembly 14 by a yoke and pin hinged connection
52. Thus, when the front and rear frame assemblies are pivoted into
alignment for normal operation, the front seat support member 46
raises the seat support structure 18 to the normal riding position.
Conversely, when the front frame assembly is folded to lie adjacent
the rear frame, the front seat support member 46 allows the seat
support structure 18 to collapse against the rear frame assembly.
To make this folding operation from the normal extended position
easier to accomplish, a lift handle 56 may be provided that extends
upward from the transverse member 54 of the front frame assembly,
or from some other convenient location near the hinged connection
between the front and rear frame assemblies.
[0070] FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate another embodiment of a personal
utility vehicle 110, in which the drive motor is associated with
the front steering wheel assembly 122. Like the previous
embodiment, it has a rear frame assembly 112 and a front frame
assembly 114, rear wheel assemblies 116, a seat support structure
118, a seat 120, a front steering wheel 122 and a steering tiller
128. This embodiment is depicted with its floor panels and other
frame covers that were removed from the embodiment of FIGS. 1 and
2, but it will be understood that the frames of both vehicles are
largely the same. The rear frame assembly 112 is pivotably attached
to the front frame assembly 114 by hinges 134. There is a hinged
connection 160 between a crossing member 154 of the front frame
assembly 114 and the forward support member 146 of the seat support
118. A latching mechanism 136 may be associated with this hinged
connection. The floor panel and battery cover allow sufficient
opening around the hinged connection 160 to allow the user manual
access to a latch actuator 174 for the latching mechanism.
[0071] The latch mechanism 136 of this embodiment is shown in FIG.
7 (cross-section). The latch mechanism generally comprises an
abutment fitting 168 at the end of the front seat support member
146 that attaches to a yoke 160 and pin 162 hinge on the front
frame 114. The fitting 168 can rotate around the hinge pin 162 to
abut against the transverse crossing member 154 to prevent the
front and rear frames from over-rotating past the aligned normal
driving position. A retaining slot 176 in the fitting 168 is
adapted to receive a locking pin 170, which is mounted in a sleeve
172 positioned within the crossing member 154. The sleeve also
encloses a spring 178 to push the pin 170 into the slot 176. An
activation lever 174 provided on the front frame assembly 114 is
operatively connected to the locking pin such that operating the
lever withdraws the pin 170 from the slot 176 and allows the
fitting 168 to rotate around the hinge pin 162 when the front frame
is lifted by the handle 164. The fitting 168 may have a second
retaining slot 177 positioned to receive the locking pin 170 when
the front and rear frame assemblies are folded together, thus
locking them in that position until the actuation lever 174 is
again moved to release the fitting 168 to rotate.
[0072] FIG. 5 depicts the vehicle 110 partially folded. The latch
actuator 174 was operated to unlatch the latch mechanism 136 and
allow the abutment fitting 168 to rotate in the yoke 160. This
unlatching also frees the frame hinges 134. The front frame
assembly can be lifted by the handle 164 to start the folding at
the hinges 134. At the same time, the movement of the front frame
cross member 154 away from the seat support assembly allows the
seat support to collapse onto the rear frame assembly. The actuator
lever 174 can be released while the frame assemblies are being
folded, and the spring will lock the latch mechanism when the pin
170 is aligned with the slot 177, in the collapsed position shown
in FIGS. 6 and 9. The steering tiller 128 can be collapsed toward
the front frame assembly and shortened, as shown in FIG. 6, by
loosening and adjusting the angle of the adjustment hinge 132 and
shortening the length by using the telescoping joint 133.
[0073] There are, of course, many types of latching mechanisms that
could be used instead of the locking pin and abutment fitting with
slots as descried in this embodiment. The invention is not intended
to be limited by the type of latching mechanism.
[0074] FIGS. 10 and 11 depict another embodiment of a collapsible
vehicle wherein the rear wheels 216, drive motor(s) and anti-tip
rollers are mounted on a transaxle assembly 280 that is pivotally
connected to the rear frame assembly, in which the transaxle can be
unlatched and pivoted into the rear frame assembly to reduce the
overall profile. The rear frame assembly 212 has on each side a
urethane mounting block 282 to which an end 264 of the transaxle
assembly is pivotally mounted. The rear wheels 216 and motor(s) 244
are mounted on a section of the transaxle axle assembly. The rear
frame has a semi-circular channel 286 on each side to receive a
hard rubber shock absorber 288 of the transaxle assemble when the
rear wheels are resting on the ground and the front and rear frame
assemblies are aligned in the normal use position. The transaxle
may be locked in this position by any appropriate locking
mechanism, such as intermeshing teeth discs 290, 291 on the rear
frame and on the axle, as depicted in FIG. 11. The axle assembly
may also have rear extensions on which are mounted the anti-tip
rollers. When the intermeshing lock discs are loosened and moved
apart so that the teeth no longer mesh, the transaxle assembly 280
can be pivoted to rest against the underside of the rear frame
212.
[0075] Another aspect of the invention is shown in FIGS. 12 and 13.
The lift handle 364 may have extended forks in tubes 390 in the
rear frame assembly 354. After the vehicle is folded into its
compact profile, the handle extension can be drawn out to full
length and the handle 364 can be used to tow the folded vehicle on
the anti-tip rollers, as shown in FIG. 13.
[0076] Another aspect of the invention is shown in FIGS. 13 and 14.
The steering tiller 328 may be pivotally attached 392 to the front
frame assembly and also be capable of easy disconnect from the
front steering wheel assembly, as by the removable pin connection
394, 396 shown in FIG. 14. Once disconnected from the front wheel
assembly 322, but still attached to the front frame assembly, the
tiller 328 can be collapsed into the front frame assembly to
provide a very compact profile for storage or transport.
[0077] Referring to FIGS. 15A, 15B, 16A, 16B, 17A, and 17B to
illustrate another embodiment, a vehicle 410 includes a foldable
frame assembly having a rear frame assembly 412, a front frame
assembly 414, and a main pivot 411 connected between the front and
rear frames 412 and 414. Scooter 410 includes a pair of rear wheels
416, a seat frame 418, a front wheel 422, and a tiller assembly
428. The scooter has a longitudinal axis that is shown in FIGS. 15A
and 17A.
[0078] Frames 412 and 414 preferable are formed of welded tubes. As
best shown in FIG. 15A, rear frame 412 preferably includes a pair
of opposing, longitudinal members 413a, a front cross member 413b,
a rear cross member 413c, a battery compartment support 413d, and
several support members 413e. Rear frame 412 is substantially
parallel to the ground plane while the frame assembly is in its
open position. Some of the frame members, including support members
413e, provide surfaces on which to attach a deck or cover, as will
be understood by persons familiar with scooter technology. Battery
compartment support 413e supports the battery compartment 481,
which is described below.
[0079] Each forward end of the longitudinal rear frame members 413a
includes a pressure plate 458, which preferably is formed of a
rigid material. The free face of each pressure plate 458 of rear
frame 412 faces forward and preferably contacts a corresponding
rearwardly facing pressure plate 459 of front frame 414.
[0080] Front frame 414 is configured to support a cover or deck
(which is omitted from FIG. 15A et seq. for clarity), and includes
a pair of opposing, longitudinal members 415a, a central member
415b, a front member 415c, and an aft member 415d. Preferably,
longitudinal members 415a are aligned with rear longitudinal
members 413a so that pressure plate 458 and 459 are in contact when
the scooter is in its fully open or operational position shown in
FIGS. 15A and 15B. Main pivot 411 preferably is formed by a pair of
hinges that are also located between longitudinal members 413a and
415a. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the main pivot forms
a single axis, but the present invention encompasses configurations
in which the frame includes additional pivots. Claims reciting a
"main pivot" (without limitation) should be interpreted as
encompassing additional pivot axes.
[0081] Central member 415b, front member 415c, and aft member 415d
may be formed of a single tube, as shown in the figures. Aft member
415d may be a short section that extends rearwardly from the rear
end of central member 415b. Front member 415c forms an angle such
that its front end gradually elevates from the ground plane and
terminates at a head bearing or head collar 417. A wheel fork 424
is attached to an outer portion of head 417 and downwardly extends
to front wheel 422.
[0082] The tiller assembly 428 includes a handlebar 430, a
telescoping portion 433a, a barrel 433b, a collar 433c, a fork
433d, and a front, standing portion 433e. As best shown in FIGS.
15A and 15B, telescoping portion 433a extends from barrel 433b and
is held in its extended position by collar 433c. As used herein,
the term "telescoping" refers any structure where one part is
moveable relative to a fixed part and compasses one, two, or any
other moveable parts. Collar 433c is releasable, such as by a cam,
to enable telescoping portion 433a to slide into barrel 433b, as
best shown in FIGS. 16A and 16B. Barrel 433b extends to tiller fork
433d, which is attached to wheel fork 424 by a pivot 429. Tiller
428 is held in its upward, operational position, as shown in FIGS.
15A and 15B, by a releasable pin or latch 432 of any design, as
will be understood by persons generally familiar with scooter
technology.
[0083] Seat structure 418 includes a front support member 446 and a
rear support member 448. Seat front support member 446 is hinged or
pivoted at its lower end at a pivot 447a to front frame aft member
415d, as shown for example in FIG. 16B. Front support member 446 is
also hinged to rear support member 448 at a pivot 447b. Each one of
the front seat support member 446 and rear seat support member 448
are oriented approximately parallel to the rear frame while the
scooter is in its folded position
[0084] Rear support member 448 includes a pair of structural main
members 449a that preferably form an oblique angle relative to the
ground plane while scooter 410 is in its open position. A pair of
cross members 449c are connected between the main members to form a
rigid structure. Each main member 449a of rear support member 448
is hinged at a pivot 449d to rear frame 412 either directly or with
a rear drive assembly therebetween. A pair of rollers 438 is
attached to a distal end of rear support member 448. Rollers 438
preferably are conventional, such as the type commonly used for
rolling luggage or in-line skates. A pair of anti-tip rollers or
wheels 439 are located on the distal end of rear frame 412.
[0085] An extendable handle assembly 456 is attached to support
members 449a. Preferably, the handle assembly 456 and seat frame
members 449a have approximately the same overall shape. Handle
assembly 456 includes a handgrip 457a, a body 457b, a skid surface
457c, and telescoping shafts 457d. Handgrip 457a is attached to the
telescoping shafts, which are shown in FIG. 26. Shafts 457d can be
inserted into body 457b or extended to the operational or
functional position by a user. The skid surface 457c is formed on
the upper or outboard surface along the length of body 457b and
preferably is formed of an abrasion resistant material, such as a
commercially available thermoplastic.
[0086] A pair of opposing drives 444 are coupled to rear frame 412
and arranged in-line with the axis of rear wheels 416; the drive
output shafts are collinear with the axes of the rear wheels 416. A
gap is formed between the drives for receiving front wheel 422 when
scooter 410 is in its fully folded position. The assembly of the
drives 444 and rear wheels 416 is connected to rear frame 412 as
will be understood by persons familiar with scooter design and
manufacture.
[0087] Scooter 410 includes a pair of batteries 440 that are
removably located in a recess or battery compartment 481 formed in
a cover 499, as best shown in FIGS. 31, 32, 33, and 34. Cover 499
is located over rear frame 412. Each battery 440 includes a housing
482 having a rear tab 484a and a front tab 484b on a lower portion
of each side, a handle 488 on its upper face, an electrical
connector 490 on its front face, and a spring loaded pin 492, which
is biased downwardly. Pin 492 is retracted when handle 488 is
lifted, as best shown in FIGS. 24A, 24B, 25A, and 25B.
[0088] Battery compartment 481 has a pair of grooves or recessed
guides 490a and 490b and a recess or aperture 491. Preferably,
scooter 410 includes a pair of rectangular battery compartments
481, as best shown in FIG. 32, that are located on opposing sides
on longitudinal centerline generally under chair assembly 420. The
structure is configured such that aperture 491 mechanically
receives pin 492 of battery 440 when electrical connector 493 of
compartment 481 mates to battery electrical connector 498, as best
shown in FIG. 32.
[0089] Accordingly, while each battery 440 is attached to scooter
410, (i) connector 498 is coupled to a mating electrical connector
493 (shown in FIG. 32), which preferably is integrally formed into
compartment 481, to electrically connect the batteries 440 to the
controller and motors, (ii) spring loaded pin 492 is engaged into
recess 491, and (iii) tabs 484a and 484b are located in the distal
portions of guides 490a and 490b, respectively. Batteries 440 are
retained in the battery compartments 481 while the scooter 410 is
in its operational position shown for example in FIGS. 15A and
15B.
[0090] When the batteries are turned approximately 90 degrees (that
is, when scooter 410 is oriented in its fully folded position and
ready to be wheeled, as shown for example in FIG. 26), pin 492 is
approximately horizontal and located in recess 491 to prevent
movement of battery 440 in the negative x direction (which is
approximately downward while the scooter is folded and resting) and
tabs 484a and 484b prevent the battery from moving in the Z
direction (which is approximately horizontal while the scooter is
in the folded and position).
[0091] Battery 440 may be removed from the frame or cover by first
lifting handle 488, which retracts pin 492 to disengage it from
recess 491. Battery 440 may then be moved horizontally (as oriented
in the open position) such that tabs 484a and 484b move
horizontally in a portion of guides 490a and 490b, and then
obliquely such that the tabs move in the angled portions of the
guides or are free from the guides. The same removal process
(relative to the scooter) may be performed while the scooter 410 is
in its folded position.
[0092] As shown in FIG. 27, a chair assembly 420 includes a seat
base 421a, a seat back 421b, and a pair of arm rest assemblies
421c. Seat back 421b extends upwardly from a rear portion of seat
base 421a and preferably is hinged so that seat back 421b can be
folded onto an upper face of seat base 421a. The arm rest
assemblies 421c include an arm rest support 460 and an arm rest
461.
[0093] As shown in FIGS. 27 and 28, arm rests supports 460
preferably are rigidly connected to a pair of rods 462a that extend
into brackets 463a on the underside of seat base 421a. Each bracket
463a has an L-shaped slot 463b that receives a pin 462b attached to
the rods 462a. FIG. 28 illustrates the rods in their extended
position such that slots 463b prevent pins 462b from rotating such
that the slots retain arm supports 460 in the upright position
shown in FIG. 27.
[0094] Arm rest supports 460 each include an upper pin 464a and a
lower pin 464b that are transverse to the longitudinal axis L of
scooter 410. Each arm rest 461 includes a bracket 466 that
downwardly extends from the underside of the main portion or
contact portion of the arm rest. As shown in FIG. 29, each bracket
includes a slot 467a in its main body and a recess 467b at its
lower end. Slot 467a receives arm rest upper pin 464a and recess
467b receives arm rest lower pin 464b to retain the arm rest 461 is
in its secured, operational position.
[0095] To move arm rest assembly 421c from its secured, operational
position shown in FIGS. 27, 28, and 29, a user may lift arm rest
461 upward such that upper pin 464a moves downward in slot 467a and
lower pin 464b disengages with recess 467b, which positions are
shown in dashed lines in FIG. 29. In its upward or extend position,
arm rest 461 is rotatable relative to arm rest support 460 such
that arm rest 461 is parallel and generally flat against arm rest
support 461. And the arm rest supports 461 may be pushed inwardly
toward seat base 421a until pins 462b are in position to ride in
the longitudinal portion of slot 463b such that arm supports 460
are rotatable relative to seat base 421a. Accordingly, arm rest
supports 460 and arm rests 461 may be rotated or folded to lie
parallel to seat base 421a.
[0096] Seat base 421a includes a fixture or flange 468, generally
referred to as a cloverleaf, attached to its underside. Flange 468
has tabs that engage corresponding tabs on a fixture 469 on seat
frame front support 446 to removably attach chair 420 to seat frame
418. Tiller 428 includes a fixture 470 for receiving seat
cloverleaf 468 while the chair assembly 420 is in its folded
position. Accordingly, to move the chair assembly 420 from the
operational position to the fully folded and transportable
position, arm rests 461 and arm rest supports 460 are folded down
and the seat is removed from the seat frame cloverleaf 469. Seat
cloverleaf fixture 468 is inserted into the holder 470 where it is
retained.
[0097] The latching and pivoting structure is shown in the assembly
FIGS. 15A, 15B, 16A, 16B, 17A, 17B and in enlarged view in FIGS.
18, 19, 20A, and 20B. A latch mechanism 450 includes a latch handle
451a, a spring 451b, a rod 451c, and a pin 451d. Spring 451b and
rod 451c preferably are oriented longitudinally while pin 451d is
oriented transversely (that is, perpendicular to the longitudinal
axis of the vehicle) and horizontally. Spring 451b biases rod 451c
and pin 451d rearward (that is, to extend outward), as oriented in
the operational position, such as is shown in FIGS. 19 and 20A. And
actuating handle 451a causes the rod 451c and pin 451d to move
forward (that is, retract). Front frame member 415c or aft member
415d has a slot for receiving a latch finger so that handle 451a
can actuate pin 451d, such as by a simple linkage.
[0098] A clasp 452 is located on the lower end of seat frame member
446. Clasp 452 includes a body 453a, a forward recess 453b, a rear
recess 453c, and a rolling or contact surface 453d. Secondary pivot
447a is formed partly in clasp body 453a. In the operational
position shown in FIG. 20A, pin 451d is biased toward and disposed
in forward recess 453b. In the fully folded position shown in FIG.
20b, pin 451d is biased toward and disposed in rear recess
453c.
[0099] To move vehicle 410 from its fully operational position to
its fully folded position, a person may first release collar 433c
and translate the telescoping portion 433a of the tiller into
barrel 433b, and release the latch 432 holding tiller in its
upright position to enable it to be pivoted clockwise (as oriented
in FIG. 16B). Latch handle 451a may be actuated to disengage pin
451d from front recess 453b. After disengagement of the latch 411,
rear frame 412 may be pivoted relative to front frame 414.
Accordingly, a user may lift vehicle 410 at its (nominal) center by
lifting latch handle 451a substantially vertically to draw the
opposing ends of frame 412 and 414 together. As scooter 410 is
moved through its partially folded configuration shown in FIGS. 16A
and 16B, pin 451d slides or rolls over clasp contact surface 453d
until scooter 410 reaches is fully folded position and pin 451d
engages with rear recess 453c of clasp 452. The engagement of pin
451d and rear recess 453c retains scooter 410 in its folded
position shown in FIGS. 17A, 17B, and 20B.
[0100] During the folding process, rear and front frame assemblies
412 and 414 pivot relative to one another about main pivot 411. As
front frame members 415c and 415d move counterclockwise relative to
pivot 411, secondary pivot 447a between forward frame aft member
415d and seat front member 446 is drawn clockwise relative to main
pivot 411. The clockwise movement or forward movement of pivot 447a
draws the lower end of seat front member 446 forward relative to
rear frame assembly 412 (as the aft end of rear support 448 is
directly or indirectly coupled to rear frame 412), which draws the
rear support 448 clockwise such that the upper end of rear support
448 and the forward end of forward support 446 are drawn downwardly
toward rear frame 412 until the seat frame and rear frame reach
their resting configuration of the folded position. Accordingly,
the position, in elevational or side view, of main pivot 411
relative to secondary pivot 447a, causes the seat frame 418 to be
drawn into or collapse into rear frame 412 during the folding
process. The figures, such as FIGS. 15B and 16B, show main pivot
411 located below secondary pivot 447a to enable the collapsing
function. The present invention is not limited to any particular
configuration, but rather encompasses any configuration that
performs the collapsing function and as limited by the claims.
[0101] After scooter 410 reaches its fully folded position, handle
457a may be grasped and extended from its retracted position shown
in figures. FIG. 26 illustrates scooter 410 in its fully folded
position with handle 457a extended to be pulled by a user. In its
folded, at-rest position, scooter 410 is supported by its pair of
rollers 438 and standing portion 433e of tiller 428. In the folded
position, as best shown in FIG. 17B there is preferably no gap
between skid surface 457c and rollers 438 to enhance the motion of
the scooter 410 over the nose of a stair tread while the scooter is
being pulled up stairs. In this regard, a gap may enable the nose
of a stair tread to dispose between a skid surface and rollers,
which would require additional force by the user while ascending
stairs.
[0102] To unfold scooter 410, as user may again actuate handle 451a
to disengage pin 451d from recess 453c, which enable frames 412 and
414 to lower toward the open position, which lowering is aided by
gravity. The seat frame extends upwardly in response to the
movement of the main and secondary pivots 411 and 447a opposite to
that described above. Tiller 428 may be pivoted and handle 430 may
be translated to their up, operational positions and the chair 420
may be placed on the seat frame, and arm rest supports 460 and arm
rests 461 may be put into their unfolded, operational or functional
positions.
[0103] The drawings and description show particular forms which are
presently preferred. It is contemplated that the invention could be
embodied in other forms. Accordingly, reference should be made to
the claims which follow to discern the full scope of the
invention.
* * * * *