CN101247980A - Vehicles with adjustable wheel rake - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a tricycle which can be changed into a bicycle. The tricycle has a first wheel rotatably mounted on one end of the frame and a pair of laterally spaced wheels rotatably mounted on a second end of the frame, wherein the laterally spaced The wheels of the vehicle are movable between a first position having a relatively wide ground clearance and a second position having a minimum ground clearance. A wheel hub capable of adjusting the pitch of a wheel has pivotably mounted left and right axles extending transversely from the hub body and dual pitch control mechanisms, each said axle being adapted to support a wheel and being vertically pivotable mounted, the dual inclination control mechanism is connected to the axle and is adapted to provide the same inclination adjustment in the same direction for the wheels on both axles. The hub has sufficient range of motion to allow the wheel to change from incline to camber, and is useful in methods of stabilizing bicycles and the like to improve the safety of the rider during training. The method involves a tricycle mode in which the laterally spaced wheels have an inclination and a bicycle mode in which the laterally spaced wheels have a camber, and a bicycle mode in which when changing from a tricycle mode to a bicycle mode while in motion, So a cyclist in training can start off with three touch points of stability, and when in motion and balanced, actually start riding the bike.

Description

Vehicles with adjustable wheel rake

Background technique

This invention relates to bicycles and other human and mechanized wheeled vehicles, and more particularly to devices for assisting people in learning to ride bicycles or other wheeled vehicles which require balance for stable operation.

The traditional learning process of riding a bicycle is scary and laborious, and that learning process has not changed over the years. Typically, the child is assisted by a parent who pushes the child on the bike, runs alongside it, and then moves the child forward in the hope that the child will gain balance before falling over. The learning curve during this process is very steep.

It is well known that children who are not ready to start learning to ride a bicycle ride a traditional tricycle, and training wheels are a well-known accessory for the child's bicycle. However, there remains a need for devices that can make the process of learning to ride a bicycle safer and more enjoyable, and make the process a part of its own goals, resulting in a more positive experience for parents as well as for children.

Contents of the invention

The invention has different aspects, but is particularly suitable for helping children learn how to ride a bicycle on their own. Unlike traditional training wheels, which simply prevent the bicycle from tipping over, the present invention allows children to gradually learn how to achieve self-balance, allowing them to learn at their own pace. According to one aspect of the invention, a pair of laterally spaced wheels on the frame of a bicycle or other wheeled vehicle have adjustable inclination to allow a predetermined inclination on said wheels to provide A stable starting platform for the spaced apart wheels, while allowing adjustment of the inclination of the two wheels in the forward direction, to reduce the distance between the wheels at the ground when the vehicle is in motion.

According to another aspect of the invention, a wheeled vehicle with adjustable wheel rake includes at least one wheel rotatably mounted on one end of the frame and a pair of wheels rotatably mounted on a second end of the frame transversely spaced wheels, wherein said transversely spaced wheels are pivotally mounted so that the inclination of each wheel can be adjusted in the same direction as the other, for example two wheels from inclination to camber, And wherein the inclination can be adjusted along with the vehicle in motion.

Another aspect of the present invention is the ability to provide a wheel hub with adjustable wheel rake. The hub body has left and right shafts extending transversely therefrom, at least one shaft is pivotally mounted, and the hub includes a tilt control mechanism connected to at least one shaft and adapted to adjust its angle relative to the other shaft.

The present invention also provides a new method of learning to ride a bicycle or similar vehicle. The method includes: installing a wheeled vehicle having a seat on a frame having a wheel at at least one end and a pair of laterally spaced wheels at a second end; a predetermined inclination on two laterally spaced wheels, which provides a stable starting platform with the spaced wheels at ground level; and thereafter adjust the inclination of the two laterally spaced wheels in the forward direction; , to reduce the distance between laterally spaced wheels at ground level.

Another aspect of the invention is a method of stabilizing a bicycle or similar vehicle for increased safety during cyclist training. The method includes: providing first and second laterally spaced wheels on one end of a vehicle frame having at least one other wheel connected thereto to provide at least three points of ground contact in at least one mode of operation; providing a tricycle mode of operation wherein at least a first laterally spaced wheel has an inclination; and providing a bicycle mode of operation wherein a first laterally spaced wheel has a camber and a minimum ground clearance from a second laterally spaced wheel interval. The method also includes enabling a change from tricycle mode to bicycle mode while in motion, so a cyclist in training can initiate movement with a stable three-point ground contact and, when in motion and balanced, actually begin Cycling.

The invention also provides a tricycle that can be changed into a bicycle. The tricycle has a first wheel rotatably mounted on one end of the frame and a pair of laterally spaced wheels rotatably mounted on a second end of the frame, wherein the laterally spaced wheels can be Movable between a first position with a wider ground plane separation and a second position with a minimum ground plane separation.

Objects and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent when the following detailed description is read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

Description of drawings

Fig. 1 is a side view of an embodiment of a tricycle according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a top, rear perspective view of the tricycle of FIG. 1 .

Figure 3A is a rear view of the same tricycle showing the rear wheels with the inclination required to provide the rider with a stable starting platform.

Figure 3B is a rear view of the same tricycle, showing the rear wheels with zero inclination.

Figure 3C is a rear view of the same tricycle showing that the rear wheel with camber effectively creates a bicycle mode of operation.

4 is a left side, rear perspective view of the tricycle showing the rear end of the frame and the hub swinging therein.

5-7 are more detailed views of the oscillating hub.

Fig. 8 is a sectional view showing a part of the belt-driven tricycle.

Figure 9 is a photograph of another embodiment of a tricycle embodying the principles of the present invention.

Detailed ways

To promote an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference is now made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings and the specific language used to describe the same. It should be understood, however, that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended, and that the above-described changes and further modifications in the illustrated arrangement and further application of the principles of the invention as shown in the drawings will be obvious to those skilled in the art to which the invention pertains. Saying is usually to be expected.

1 and 2 illustrate a first embodiment of the invention in the form of a tricycle 10 having a pair of adjustable wheels 12 and 14. The disclosed tricycle also includes a front wheel 18 mounted on a handlebar 22 controlled in a conventional manner with a saddle 24, a crank assembly 26 and a partially enclosed belt drive 28 connecting the crank assembly to a freewheel in the hub. In the fork frame 20, the hub will be further described below.

3A-3C illustrate the tricycle in different states or working modes including a tricycle mode in which the two rear wheels have inclination (as shown in FIG. 3A ), and a bicycle mode in which the two rear wheels The wheels have camber (as shown in Figure 3C). Those skilled in the art can understand that the inclination angle is the angle of the plane of each rear wheel relative to the vertical direction. The inward inclination of the wheel tip (ie, toward the centerline of the vehicle) is referred to as inclination; the outward inclination is referred to as camber. Because of its adjustable inclination and rear wheel spacing, the disclosed embodiments of the present invention can actually be changed from a tricycle to a bicycle.

Unlike traditional training wheels, which merely prevent the bicycle from tipping over, the disclosed tricycle allows a child to learn how to self-balance. As shown in FIG. 3A , the adjustable-tilt wheels help balance the bicycle at rest and at low speeds by spreading out at ground level (ie, tricycle mode of operation). As the rider increases forward momentum and in the process shifts his weight forward, the wheels move inward due to the reduced weight on the rear wheel (as explained below), causing the balance to gradually shift from Transfer to the cyclist. When stability is at its extreme (starting and stopping), the trike provides more balance at lower speeds by providing a greater stance and allowing the rider to transition to bike mode in motion.

Referring to Figures 4 and 5, the tricycle has a pivoting rear hub 40 which allows the rear wheels to be tilted in and out and thereby create greater or lesser stances (ie, ground level space). FIG. 5 illustrates an embodiment of an oscillating hub having a centrally located freewheel 42 rotatably connected to two shafts 44 by respective universal joints 46 located at the ends of the frustocone. or cup-shaped hub portion 48 (shown as transparent in the drawings). A flex shaft or other device for transferring power between non-coaxial axles may be used in place of the universal joint. Mounting brackets 50 on each side support the hub in the frame, and each transverse hub portion has sufficient free play there to allow pivoting of the associated axle. Preferably, the axle is constrained to allow only vertical pivoting, for example by a slot member 52 having a vertical slot 54 engaging the axle or a collar 56 around the axle. A flexible rubber boot can be provided around the collar to seal the opening in the hub or as a dust cover. The collar is biased downward by a tensioning strap 58 which is removably attached at one end to the collar and at the other end to a hook which is provided on the frame of the vehicle below the collar. partly on. Alternatively, a separate tensioning strap may run under the frame and interconnect the two collars. Bicycle wheels 12 are conventionally non-pivotably mounted on the axles.

The rear axle can be spring biased instead of biased by a tension belt. For example, vertically oriented compression springs may be included above each shaft in the hub, such as in or near slot 54 and oriented to apply a downward force to the inner portion of the collar.

Turning to FIG. 6, the tricycle may have a conventional bottom bracket and a conventional crank arrangement with pedals on the ends of the crank arms, but in the illustrated embodiment, the pedals are mounted at a radius substantially on a ring equal to the required crank arm length. Hollow bottom bracket 60 effectively combines the functions of the axle and crank arm of a conventional crankshaft arrangement, and also serves as the front drive pulley for drive belt 62, which interconnects the pulley and freewheel to transmit power from the crank to the crankshaft. on the rear wheel. The partially enclosed belt keeps the drive chain away from the rider and thereby helps avoid possible injury; if required, its outer portion can be covered with a guard similar to a conventional bicycle chain guard.

One embodiment of the tricycle of the present invention has an aluminum monocoque frame construction with both the frame and front fork made of aluminum 7160 and TIG welding. As an example of a set of dimensions, a tricycle may have a length of 60 inches, a width of 24 inches (at the widest point), a height of 35 inches, and a weight of 25 pounds. For example, each rear axle may be approximately 5 inches in length and have a 1 inch diameter, and the overall width of the hub may be approximately 5 inches. Other frame materials can also be considered, including steel, carbon fiber, plastic and titanium.

Figure 7 illustrates another embodiment of a tricycle incorporating the principles of the present invention. Other embodiments are also contemplated, including where the wheel camber is adjusted as a function of speed or other parameters instead of or in addition to weight response adjustments. For example, a speed sensor may provide output signals to suitable control circuits and actuators to adjust the angle of each rear axle.

Alternatively, the tricycle may have a manual incline adjustment mechanism, such as a release lever connected (for example by a control cable) to a pull handle or trigger mechanism in the hub that holds the wheel in a stable incline position . The rider can use the release lever to release the rear axle from the handle so that the downwardly biased axle moves to an angle below horizontal and thus shifts the wheel to camber. A similar mechanical transfer mechanism could work on the principle of a cable-actuated bicycle derailleur.

The design of the illustrated tricycle mainly benefits two types of users. First, it provides a less challenging and less threatening design solution. The design also takes the fear out of learning how to ride a bike. The child feels more confident and self-trusting during the learning process, which adds to the enjoyment of the experience. The tricycle is also easy to use and can be used without professional training or instruction. Second, the tricycle also benefits parents in many ways. Parents feel safer for their children learning how to ride a bicycle because it reduces the likelihood of injury. Parents also do not risk losing their child's trust, which might occur if a collision occurs after the parent pushes the child away. Children are also safer thanks to the unexposed drive chain and easy-to-use operation, which allows parents to let their children learn on their own without constant monitoring of their safety. Parents also benefit from the trike's ease of maintenance and easy replacement of parts.

The invention is not limited to training ages (like traditional training wheels). It can also be used well in the teenage age group. A guarded drive chain helps improve durability, thus reducing the amount of maintenance and replacement parts required. The tricycle according to the invention also makes learning how to ride a bicycle fun, which (as the joy of using a tricycle increases beyond the learning age) will encourage children to use bicycles in the future. This future of both recreation and transportation is environmentally sound and contributes to increased environmental responsibility.

While the invention has been described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, which are to be considered illustrative and not restrictive, it is to be understood that what has been shown and described are only preferred Changes and modifications are required to be protected. For example, the invention may be embodied as a tandem and/or recumbent tricycle or bicycle. For special applications, it is also conceivable to use engine power instead of human power, or to use engine power in addition to human power, eg on motorcycles. In addition, the principles of the present invention can also be used in certain applications in vehicles with more than three wheels, such as quadricycles like four-wheeled two-seaters and coaches modified according to the invention so that the tilting of the front and rear wheel units Degrees are adjustable in the same direction to effectively obtain a two-wheel work style.

When the present invention is applied to mountain bikes and other bicycles with front and/or rear shock absorbers or hangers, suspended seat posts, conventional spoked wheels, wheel guards and vertical and drooping handlebars with generally rearward curvature For vehicles, the fork-shaped mounting of the hub and wheel set according to the invention is also conceivable.

Claims (23)

1. wheeled car with variable wheel camber comprises:

Vehicle frame;

At least one is rotatably installed in the wheel on described vehicle frame one end; With

Be rotatably installed in a pair of laterally spaced wheel on the second end of described vehicle frame;

Wherein said laterally spaced wheel is installed pivotly, so as the inclination of each wheel can with another identical direction on adjust; With

In described vehicle movement, described inclination can be adjusted.

2. vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein said at least one wheel is a front-wheel, and described laterally spaced wheel is a trailing wheel.

3. vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein said at least one wheel is a trailing wheel, and described laterally spaced wheel is a front-wheel.

4. vehicle as claimed in claim 1 wherein rotatably is equipped with a pair of laterally spaced wheel on each end of described vehicle frame.

5. vehicle as claimed in claim 2, the inclination of wherein said trailing wheel are adjusted between inclination and the negative camber outside.

6. vehicle as claimed in claim 5, wherein said trailing wheel are by enough closely at interval, so that the bottom of trailing wheel described in the inclination state almost contacts with each other outside maximum.

7. wheeled car with camber adjustment mechanism comprises:

Vehicle frame;

At least one is rotatably installed in the wheel on the end of described vehicle frame;

Be installed in the wheel hub on the second end of described vehicle frame, described wheel hub has can vertically pivot first and second that install from its horizontal expansion, and each described axle has vertical range of the angle that is included in the horizontal surface above and below;

Be installed in the wheel on each described axle; With

Thereby the device that is used to adjust the angle of each described axle and adjusts described wheel inclination when on the go in the same direction.

8. wheel hub that adjustable wheel inclination is provided on wheeled car comprises:

Hub body;

From a left side and the right axle of described hub body horizontal expansion, each described axle is suitable for support wheel, and at least one in the described axle is installed into and can vertically pivots;

Be connected to described at least one go up and be suitable for inclination control mechanism with respect to another its angle of axial adjustment.

9. wheel hub as claimed in claim 8, a wherein said left side and right axle all be pivotally mounted on the described hub body and

Wherein said inclination control mechanism is to be connected to two described axles to go up and be suitable for the dual control mechanism that two wheels on the axle provide collaborative inclination to adjust in the same direction.

10. wheel hub as claimed in claim 9, wherein said inclination control mechanism comprise respectively around a left side and the right neck ring of a described left side with right axle.

11. wheel hub as claimed in claim 10, also be included in the center shaft in the described hub body and respectively described center shaft is connected to a described left side and right axle on a left side and right universal-joint.

12. wheel hub as claimed in claim 11, wherein said inclination control mechanism can be adjusted inclination when vehicle movement.

13. wheel hub as claimed in claim 12 also comprises the drive sprocket that is installed on the described center shaft, is used for via the cushion drive parts from crank device to the there transferring power.

14. wheel hub as claimed in claim 13, wherein said wheel inclination are adjusted between inclination and the negative camber outside.

15. wheel hub as claimed in claim 14, wherein determine the size of a described left side and right axle with respect to support wheel in the above, so that in the primary importance that is equivalent to maximum negative camber be equivalent to vertically to pivot between the second place of inclination outside maximum, between used life in being equivalent to the primary importance of maximum negative camber, the top of wheel almost contacts with each other, be equivalent between used life in the second place of maximum outer inclination, the bottom of wheel almost contacts with each other.

16. wheel hub as claimed in claim 15, wherein said hub body is adapted to be mounted to the rear end of cycle frame.

17. wheel hub as claimed in claim 16, wherein said inclination control mechanism comprises the device that is used for a described left side and right wheel shaft biased downward.

18. a study by bike or the method for similar vehicles, comprising:

Wheeled car is installed, and described wheeled car has vehicle seat on vehicle frame, and this vehicle frame has a wheel at least at one end, and a pair of laterally spaced wheel is arranged on second end;

Begin to utilize the predetermined negative camber on two laterally spaced wheels to come by bike, it provides the stable beginning platform that has at the ground level place wheel at interval; With

On direction adjust the inclination of two laterally spaced wheels, to reduce the distance between the laterally spaced wheel at ground level place thereafter.

19. method as claimed in claim 18, wherein during use inclination by inclination outside negative camber is adjusted to.

20. the three-wheel vehicle that can change into bicycle, described three-wheel vehicle comprises:

Vehicle frame;

Be rotatably installed in first wheel on the end of described vehicle frame; With

Be rotatably installed in a pair of laterally spaced wheel on the second end of described vehicle frame,

Wherein said laterally spaced wheel can have interplanar relatively widely every primary importance and have between the minimum ground level second place at interval movable.

21. the four wheeler that can change into bicycle, described four wheeler comprises:

Vehicle frame;

Be rotatably installed in a pair of laterally spaced wheel on the end of described vehicle frame; With

Be rotatably installed in a pair of laterally spaced wheel on the second end of described vehicle frame,

Wherein every pair of laterally spaced wheel can and have activity between the laterally spaced second place of minimum ground level in the primary importance with relative widely flat transverse interval.

22. stable bicycle or similar vehicles comprise to improve the method for safety at rider's training period:

Provide the first and second spaced wheels so that 3 ground contacts are provided at least a operation scheme on an end of vehicle frame, described vehicle frame has at least one other wheel that is connected thereto;

A kind of three-wheel vehicle operation scheme is provided, and wherein first laterally spaced wheel has negative camber at least;

A kind of bicycle operation scheme is provided, and wherein the first laterally spaced wheel has outer inclination and from the minimum ground separation of the second spaced wheel; With

When motion, make and to change to the bicycle operation scheme from the three-wheel vehicle operation scheme;

Therefore the rider in the training can utilize 3 stable ground contacts to begin to move, and when working as on the go and reaching balance, in fact begins by bike.

23. method as claimed in claim 22, wherein said laterally spaced wheel the two in described three-wheel vehicle pattern, have negative camber and in described bicycle pattern, have outside inclination.

Images